THEPhilippines’s balance of payments (BOP) posted a deficit of $4.1 billion in January, the widest in 11 years, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said.
Figures from the BSP also showed that the January deficit was wider than the $740 million recorded last year.
The BSP’s net foreign exchange operations and drawdowns by the national government on its foreign currency deposits with the BSP to meet its external debt obligations led to the BOP deficit. Month-on-month, the BOP deficit posted in January 2025 is bigger than the $1.508-billion shortfall in December 2024.
The BOP is a summary of the Philippines’s economic transactions with the rest of the world for a specific period. A BOP deficit position means there are fewer exports or inflows than imports or outflows, while a surplus means there are more.
The BOP deficit widened amid increased market volatility largely brought about by possible protectionist policies or measures by US President Donald Trump as well as other geopolitical risks, according to Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC). Jonathan Ravelas, senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co., said the higher deficit can be “concerning” as it indicates a substantial outflow of foreign currency. This can put pressure on the Philippines’s foreign exchange reserves and the peso weakening, he added. “However, it is important to consider the context, such as the national government’s foreign debt payments and foreign exchange operations amid a volatile peso exchange rate.”
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THE Philippine auto industry will shoot for another record of 500,000 units of vehicles this year as it banks on newly-launched models and anticipates the introduction of new models, according to the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi).
“Campi is confident in setting the aspirational figure of 500,000 units sale as its target for this year. Newly-rolled-out models and anticipated introduction of new models are some of the factors that will contribute to achieving this target,” Campi President
Rommel Gutierrez said in a state -
ment on Thursday.
In 2024, a joint report by Campi and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed that the auto industry sold 467,252 units of cars.
The Campi-TMA report showed that cars sold in January 2025 reached 37,604 units, 10.4 percent higher than the 34,060 units sold in the first month of 2024.
Compared to the previous month, however, car sales plunged by 10.6 percent to 37,604 units from the 42,044 units sold in December 2024.
In terms of vehicle segments, the auto industry group reported that commercial vehicles grew by
16.6 percent with 29,875 units sold in January 2024, compared to the 25,614 units sold in the same period last year. Meanwhile the passenger car segment declined by 8.5 percent, selling only 7,729 units compared to the 8,446 units sold in the first month of 2024. Under the commercial vehicles, all categories except medium-duty trucks and buses posted increases in vehicle sales.
The Light Commercial Vehicle category cornered the larger piece of the pie in January 2025, with a 74.81-percent share, selling 22,350 units. This was followed by Asian Utility Vehicle, with 22.42 percent share as it sold 6,698 units;
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to
the
BusinessMirror
THE main white beach in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan was named among the Best of the Best Beaches in Asia for 2025 in Tripadvisor’s Travel Choice Awards for 2025.
Attracting some 2.08 million visitors last year, though 2 percent less than in 2023, Boracay ranked fourth on the list, which was topped by Banana Beach in Phuket. Nacpan Beach in El Nido, Palawan also made the list, and placed eighth among the 10 beaches ranked.
As this developed, the Malay government will likely be forced to cut its visitor and municipal fees starting this year, after being dealt the hammer blow by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who led a meeting to discuss the fees with Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Aklan Gov. Jose Enrique “Joen”
Miraflores, Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista, and private stakeholders’ groups from Manila and Boracay.
“Secretary Remulla gave the mayor a two-week deadline to either reduce the fees for island hopping, picnicking, and snorkeling or impose a moratorium on them,” said a BusinessMirror source who participated in the meeting, held on Monday at the Philippine International Convention Center. “[Remulla] also shared an important lesson from his past experience, noting that Bataan was once more prosperous than Cavite. However, as Bataan’s local government became overly restrictive and failed to collaborate with stakeholders, businesses started relocating to Cavite, reversing the economic dynamic,” the source added.
‘Tense’ meeting BORACAY visitors pay a terminal fee of P150 per person, an environmental fee of P150 (domestic tourists) or (P300 foreign tourists),
and P50 for a boat to ferry them from Caticlan to Boracay (v.v). Aside from these fees, visitors also pay a number of fees, based on several Malay ordinances: P30 convenience fee for using the e-Boracay app, P100 snorkeling fee; while tour guides pay the LGU an undetermined amount for island hopping and picnic activities for guests.
Two separate sources speaking on background described the meeting, which lasted about 45 minutes, as “somewhat tense, but there were no direct confrontations or heated exchanges.” Also, “It was stern with a little pushback [from Bautista], but in the end there was no other option but to cooperate.”
Another source noted that “[Miraflores] expressed willingness right away [to have the fees reduced or removed]. But [Bautista] worried about where [the LGU] will get its funds if he removed some fees/taxes.”
One source intimated that “Remulla was
producer, saw extraordinary price hikes of the staple, with the prices as of December 2024 described as still “elevated.”
The areas with price spikes were given priority in allocations for cheaper rice under the recent declaration of a food emergency. The resolution justifying the declaration had noted that “the price levels of regular milled rice [RMR] and well-milled rice [WMR] were respectively 19 percent and 20 percent higher compared to the period before the price spikes in July 2023.”
The agency identified areas affected by the surge in rice prices along with their corresponding monthly rice allocations. On the list is Western Visayas, one of the country’s top rice-producing regions.
Under Department Circular (DC) 4, an initial allocation of
By Ada Pelonia
Auto industry…
4.19 percent share.
EV sales
MEANWHILE , the Campi-TMA report showed there were 1,600 units of electric vehicles sold in January 2025. Of these, 1,445 units are Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), 146 units are Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and 9 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV).
The Campi-TMA report noted that data on EV sales are based on the Department of Energy’s (DOE) list of recognized EVs as of February 13,2025. In terms of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. led the pack as it sold 1,256 units, taking up 86.92 percent of the HEV sales pie in the country.
This was followed by Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. with 97 units sold, 6.71 percent share; Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc., 33 units, 2.28 percent share; Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (Mazda), 25 units, 1.73 percent share; Saic Motors Philippines Inc. (MG), 15 units sold, 1.04 percent share and Foton Motor Philippines, Inc., 10 units, 0.69 percent share.
In terms of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), Nissan led the pack as it sold 92 units in January 2025, for a 63.01-percent share of the BEV market in the country.
DOH reminds hospitals on PhilHealth FBE coverage
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
This was followed by Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. with 19 units sold, 13.01 percent share; Jetour Auto Phil. Inc., 12 units sold, 8.22-percent share; SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp. (BMW), 10 units sold, 6.85 percent share, among others. 625,600
from the National Food
ALLoutpatient emergency cases in accredited levels 1 to 3 hospitals are covered by Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) Facility-Based Emergency (FBE) benefit in accordance with the Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit (OECB) package introduced late last year through PhilHealth Circular 2024-0033, the Department of Health (DOH) said Thursday.
This was implemented on February 14, 2025, according to PhilHealth Advisory No. 2025-0009 published on February 18, 2025.
Meanwhile, coverage for ambulance services under the Prehospital Emergency (PHE) benefit will be announced at a later date, DOH said in a reminder to all parties.
Hospitals, the DOH said, are also reminded that they do not need separate accreditation to provide FBE benefits as it is already included in their
accreditation as hospitals.
However, those with extension facilities must submit to their respective PhilHealth Regional Offices a certification stating the name of the affiliated extension facility and its complete address.
Consultation meeting
THE PhilHealth, under the leadership of Acting President and CEO, Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, held a consultation meeting with the country’s leading
private hospital groups and national associations, focused on PhilHealth’s commitment to improving its efficiency, addressing wastage, and optimizing processes to ensure that hospitals receive timely payments for their claims.
Attendees included heads and representatives from the Metro Pacific Health Corporation, Mount Grace Hospital Group, Unilab Foundation, AC Health, St. Luke’s Medical Center, The Medical City, Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, Inc., and Philippine Hospital Association.
Mercado and the hospital executives also agreed to take on the challenge of increasing access points for primary care.
The hospitals taking on primary care will facilitate the comple -
tion of Health Care Provider Networks (HCPNs) which will bring the nation closer to achieving Universal Health Care for every Filipino, the PhilHealth said.
“We recognize the significant role that private hospitals play in delivering quality healthcare services to Filipinos. We can only leverage their capacities when we build a sphere of trust and effective coordination,” said Mercado.
Next on his priority list for meetings are the government hospitals, both DOH and LGUmanaged, Mercado said.
“With continued stakeholder engagement across the public health community, we are creating a strengthened PhilHealth that can uplift healthcare financing in the Philippines,” he concluded.
Senate caucus on calling…
slate here.
He said convening the Senate as an impeachment court without delay would be in the best interest of the impeached official and the nation to resolve the issue swiftly.
Sotto also raised a key procedural question: if the impeachment case carries over to the 20th Congress if it was initiated under the 19th Congress. He stressed the need for clear guidelines, especially as the Senate prepares to amend its impeachment rules on June 2.
“Now, the question arises— does it carry over or not? That’s what needs to be clarified. It would be best for them to convene immediately, which is what I would prefer, because it’s also beneficial for the impeached officer to have an immediate decision—whether guilty, not guilty, or whatever the outcome may be. If they don’t convene, how will the case transition to the 20th Congress if they neither received nor acknowledged it? That’s a key issue, which is why they should convene as soon as possible,” he said.
Senator Francis Tolentino, chair of the Senate Committee on Rules, echoed concerns about the potential jurisdictional challenges that could arise, hinting that the matter may reach the Supreme Court.
“I don’t want to get ahead of things, but someone might question this before the Supreme Court—whether the 20th Congress has jurisdiction or if it solely belongs to the 19th Congress, since the complaint was filed and the prosecutors were constituted under the 19th Congress. So, this could be brought before the Supreme Court again. It’s a legal question that, in a few weeks, might be ripe for adjudication,” he said.
Meanwhile, Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. said the impeachment process is a constitutional duty, not a political choice. He underscored the need for the Senate to carefully review evidence and refine court procedures before conducting the trial.
“This is a constitutional mandate, not an option. The impeachment court must carefully follow due process, ensuring fair evidence review and adherence to judicial rules,” Abalos said.
Former Senator Manny Pacquiao cautioned that the impeachment process will take time, given the need to thoroughly examine evidence and follow proper procedures. He urged the public not to misin -
terpret the legal proceedings as politically motivated.
“Impeachment is not easy—it requires reviewing all evidence, considering both the prosecution and defense, and following constitutional procedures. This should not be politicized,” Pacquiao said.
The impeachment charges include culpable violation of the Constitution, bribery, graft and corruption and betrayal of public trust, primarily centered on the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds.
Calleja to Chiz: Why the rush?
ESCUDERO adjourned the Senate on February 5, but lawyer Howard Calleja noted on Thursday that these was “two days early, just one hour after receipt of the complaint.”
A trial after the State of the Nation Address (Sona) in late July “as Chiz wants, means no impeachment,” said Calleja. He described Escudero’s move to adjourn the Senate’s session with two more days left in its legislative calendar as a violation of his Constitutional mandate to “forthwith” or immediately take up the impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte.
Escudero proposed to take up the complaint on June 2 instead and later on changed this to late July after the Sona before the 20th Congress, Calleja noted.
The Senate calendar was supposed to end on February 7 yet but it adjourned on February 5 without taking up the complaint in violation of the Constitution.
According to Calleja the secretary general of the House was made to wait for an hour before being allowed to turn over the articles of impeachment. Roughly an hour later, at around 7pm, the Senate adjourned.
“We have to look at the culpability of Mr. Escudero for this constitutional breach,” Calleja said.
“We have questions: Why that unconstitutional rush? Who benefited from Chiz’s premature adjournment? Definitely Sara because there would be a lot of legal questions that could potentially kill the impeachment complaint under the 20th Congress. Is China, which is interested to control Philippine politics, too far behind? What is the benefit to Chiz who is known to be interested in the 2028 presidential elections?” he asked.
He added: “My question to Chiz is: you are a lawyer and forthwith is a simple English term. Who are you loyal to?”
(NFA) could be availed of monthly by
government units (LGUs) from the determined areas.
Broken down, the monthly allocation of the National Capital Region (NCR) stood at 293,000 bags; Western Visayas at 58,000 bags; Region 4 at 47,000 bags; Bicol Region at 38,600 bags; Central Visayas at 50,000 bags; Eastern Visayas at 18,000 bags. Zamboanga Peninsula will have a monthly allocation of 21,000 bags; Northern Mindanao at 20,000 bags; Davao Region at 19,000 bags; Soccsksargen at 36,000 bags; Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) at 5,000 bags; and Caraga at 20,000 bags. The LGUs from these affected areas would sell the rice stocks to their respective constituents at P35 per kilo under the food security emergency declaration. However, the list could still be expanded upon further determination by the DA.
The circular also noted that the monthly allocation would not constitute a guaranteed quantity or volume for issuance by the NFA.
“Any unwithdrawn allocation remaining after the lifting of the food security emergency on rice shall be automatically forfeited, without need of further notice and shall revert to the NFA for buffer stocking or disposition in accordance with existing policies and regulations.”
Meanwhile, the DA recently started to release the grains agency’s rice stocks to LGUs.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. officially handed over rice supplies to San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora in a ceremony at the NFA warehouse in Valenzuela City on Wednesday.
“This is just the beginning. We expect more local government units to participate in this effort, which will benefit not only Filipino consumers but also rice farmers,” Laurel was quoted in the statement as saying.
“With the P9 billion allocated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for NFA’s rice procurement this year, and the remaining funds from last year’s record purchases, we aim to buy even more palay from farmers,” he added.
NFA Administrator Larry Lacson told the BusinessMirror that the grains agency is targeting to procure as much as 870,000 MT of palay this year. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/02/20/nfa-tobuy-870k-mt-of-palay-in-2025/)
Two weeks ago, the DA declared a food security emergency in its bid to stabilize rice prices upon the recommendation of the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC). Such a declaration allows the agency to release rice buffer stocks held by the NFA.
succeeding PCO Secretary Cheloy V. Garafil, who became the current head of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO). Prior to Garafil, PCO, when it was still called Office of the Press Secretary in 2022, was headed by Beatrix “Trixie” Cruz-Angeles.
Aside from Bautista and Chavez, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John E. Uy was also rumored to be leaving the Marcos administration.
Asked about the rumors last Thursday, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin said they will not dignify the speculations and that they will only make announcements on the said matters once they have “compelling reasons” to do so.
Pimentel on Cusi’s PDP Laban over letterhead: They are crazy
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
SENATE Minority Leader
Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel
III on Thursday laughed off the complaint of a wing of PDP Laban about his continued use of the name of “PDP Laban” on his official letterhead, calling its leaders “crazy.”
Pimentel, son of the original founder of the party in 1982 – former Senate President Aquilino Pimentel Jr. – pointed out that “ hindi naman nila ako in -expel [they did not expel me]” as party member, so he had every right to continue using the party name as a member. He added that the Comelec decision in May 2022, declaring the faction led by former energy secretary Alfonso Cusi the legitimate leader, may still be reversed.
Pimentel recalled that Cusi himself had even declared they were not expelling Pimentel III, only rejecting him as party leader, after Pimentel backed Sen. Manny Pacquiao as new party president.
Replying to reporters’ request for a reaction to reports that the pro-Duterte PDP Laban was questioning his continued use of “PDP-Laban” on his letterhead when he wrote Senate President Francis Escudero on Tuesday, Pimentel blurted out: “ Sira pala ulo nila ; hindi pa nila ako ine -expel sa PDP-Laban.”
“Even Cusi himself said then they were not expelling me. They just rejected my leadership,” he added, partly in Filipino, and said
this is why the PDP Laban got split into “two wings.”
He replied with a strong “Hindi! [No]” when asked if he was endorsing the PDP laban senators now running under the pro-Duterte wing.
The rift between the proDuterte wing and Pimentel’s faction had worsened in 2021 when Pacquiao criticized the Duterte administration for corruption. It was revived in December 2024 when the Pimentel faction assailed former President Rodrigo Duterte’s wing for calling on people to join an Edsa Shrine rally against the Marcos administration.
That rally was one of the public showdowns between the feuding camps of the erstwhile “UniTeam” of Marcos and Vice President Sara Z. Duterte.
The Pimentel faction then scored the Duterte wing’s “call for public disturbance and their misuse of the party name for selfish political motives is a betrayal of the principles upon which the PDP-Laban was founded, principles centered on justice, peace, and the rule of law.”
The Pimentel faction also stressed that “the PDP Laban stands firmly behind the Constitution, the rule of law, and the democratically elected government. The Philippines has faced enough challenges, and the last thing our nation needs is division and destabilization at the hands of those who prioritize personal agendas over the welfare of the Filipino people.”
Doctor’s group calls on govt to OK new dengue vaccines
By John Eiron R. Francisco
AGROUP of physicians has urged President Marcos to approve the “next-generation” dengue vaccine as part of the country’s integrated dengue prevention and control strategy.
In an appeal letter read by Dr. Erica Tania Davillo, chairwoman of the Philippine Medical Association’s Ad Hoc Committee on Dengue Advocacy, during the launching on Tuesday of the coalition “Empowering Networks to Defeat ]END] Dengue,” the association emphasized its understanding of concerns regarding dengue vaccine safety, especially following past issues with CYD-TDV (Dengvaxia). However, Davillo noted that with recent advancements in vaccine technology, newer dengue vaccines—either available in the market or in Phase 3 clinical trials—have shown promising effectiveness and safety.
She highlighted TAK-003, a dengue vaccine developed by Japanese manufacturer Takeda, which has been recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for use in highly endemic countries like the Philippines. The vaccine has already been licensed in more than 40 countries, including Indonesia, Brazil, and members of the European Union.
“Having witnessed the devastating impact of dengue on our patients and their families, we strongly urge the government to grant access to these new generation dengue vaccines,” the statement read.
“Allow Filipinos the right to protect themselves from this dreadful disease, as enshrined in the Philippine Constitution.” However, the appeal letter has yet to be sent to the Palace.
Pending FDA Approval
DR. LULU C. BRAVO, chairwoman of the PMA Ad Hoc Committee on Vaccination and PMA Coalition
‘Evidence vs Sara enough to oust, disqualify her from govt forever’
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
AS the House of Representatives awaits its copy of the Supreme Court petition against Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment complaint, a leader of the chamber said evidence against Duterte is not only sufficient to justify her removal from office but also warrants her perpetual disqualification from holding any public position.
San Juan Rep. Ysabel Maria Zamora, a member of the House prosecution panel, underscored the responsibility of the Congress to pursue the impeachment based on the identified grounds.
“As for us in Congress, we saw evidence; that’s why we filed a complaint for impeachment,” Zamora said during a forum organized by the University of the Philippines College of Law on the impeachment trial of Duterte on Wednesday.
“So without going to the merits or to the evidence, it is our duty as representatives, as members of Congress, to file this impeachment complaint because we saw grounds to support it,” Zamora added.
She emphasized the need to present the evidence publicly, countering criticisms that the impeachment process is a misuse of time and resources.
Zamora also clarified that an impeached official’s resignation does not conclude the process, as
Coordinator, revealed that TAK003 has had a pending application at the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since April 2023. She noted that while the approval process for Dengvaxia took only seven months (from May to December), TAK-003 has been in limbo for nearly two years, raising questions about the delay.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said in July 2024 that the FDA could grant approval to Japanbased Takeda Pharmaceuticals within the year. However, the approval remains pending as of now.
END Dengue
UNDER the END Dengue coalition, the physicians’ group aims to achieve zero dengue deaths by 2030, aligning with the WHO goal. This initiative is guided by five key pillars: epidemiological surveillance, vector control, clinical management, vaccine development, and communication and advocacy.
Asked about the Department of Health’s (DOH) role in the campaign, Davillo emphasized that the agency remains a key part of the coalition. She explained that the initiative involves collaboration with national, international, and local partners, as well as various stakeholders—hence the name “Empowering Networks.”
“That’s why empowering networks is a big thing. It’s not just about medical institutions or associations—it involves everyone,” Davillo said.
The health department reported that dengue remains a major public health concern in the country, with over 380,000 cases recorded from January to November 2024—an 81 percent increase compared to the previous year. The disease has also claimed 881 lives during this period. The Philippines continues to lead Southeast Asia in dengue cases and deaths, maintaining this trend consistently over the past years.
the Senate retains the authority to proceed with the trial to determine disqualification from future public office.
“Because there is a separate consequence of disqualification from holding another public office or any public office in the future. It does not end with the resignation of an impeached or impeachable official. The Senate can continue the trial so that we can know if the official should be disqualified from holding public office,” she added.
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, with 215 members voting in favor, surpassing the one-third requirement.
Twenty-five more lawmakers expressed their intent to join as complainants by submitting their verification forms.
The impeachment charges include culpable violation of the Constitution, bribery, graft and corruption and betrayal of public trust, primarily centered on the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds as vice presidend and as Secretary of Education.
The Articles of Impeachment have been transmitted to the Senate, which is constitutionally mandated to conduct a trial to determine the Vice President’s culpability.
SC petition
THE House of Representatives has yet to receive official copies of the petition filed before the Supreme Court (SC) challenging the
impeachment complaint against Duterte, House Secretary-General Reginald S. Velasco said.
“We are aware of the two petitions filed before the Supreme Court challenging the validity and constitutionality of the impeachment complaint filed and transmitted to the Senate,” Velasco stated.
He noted that their awareness of the petitions comes from media reports, saying, “We came to know about the petitions through the various media outlets.”
“Considering that we have not received copies of any of these petitions, we are constrained to wait until we have furnished copies before we respond to any query on the matter.”
Velasco emphasized that the House adhered to constitutional protocols in the impeachment process.
“The House of Representatives ensured compliance with all constitutional requirements when it filed the Articles of Impeachment and transmitted it to the Senate,” he said.
Evade accountability
HOUSE prosecutor Ako Bicol Rep. Jil Bongalon on Thursday criticized Duterte’s petition before the SC seeking to halt her impeachment, calling it a desperate and unprecedented maneuver never attempted by any impeached official before her.
Bongalon, a House Assistant Majority Leader, emphasized that Duterte’s legal maneuver is a blatant attempt to block the
trial rather than defend herself in the impeachment court, raising serious doubts about the strength of her case.
“This is a clear sign that the Vice President is afraid to face the evidence against her. If she truly believes she is innocent, why is she running to the Supreme Court instead of preparing her defense before the Senate? This move reeks of desperation,” Bongalon, a lawyer, said.
The House prosecutor noted that in the history of Philippine impeachment cases, no impeached official has ever sought to stop the process through the Supreme Court.
Chief Justice Renato Corona (2012) faced trial in the Senate and was ultimately convicted. He never sought to block the proceedings before they began.
Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno (2018), despite questioning the process, did not ask the courts to stop her impeachment outright.
Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez (2011) opted to resign rather than contest the trial, but she, too, did not attempt to halt the process through judicial intervention.
“These officials, despite the charges against them, acknowledged the constitutional role of Congress in impeachment. They did not try to undermine the process by running to the Supreme Court. What VP Duterte is doing now is completely unprecedented,” Bongalon stressed.
Comelec orders pre-registration for election surveys
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
WITH election surveys flooding online platforms, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has moved to regulate their conduct by requiring everyone planning to conduct surveys to register in advance.
Under Comelec Resolution 1117, made public on Thursday, pre-registration of individuals, groups, and survey firms must be filed with the poll body’s Political Finance and Affairs Department (Pfad).
“Only pre-registered entities shall be authorized to conduct and publicly disseminate election surveys… Survey firms that
have already been conducting and disseminating election surveys prior to the publication of this resolution shall be given a grace period of 15 days from the date of effectivity to complete their registration with the Comelec,” the resolution said.
The poll body warned that entities that fail to comply will be prohibited from conducting and publishing election surveys.
Comelec also said it will verify and monitor all election survey data gathered by registered firms to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the results.
All registered entities must submit a comprehensive report within five days of publishing their survey results.
Groups to voters: Elect ‘green’ bets
By Rizal Raoul Reyes @brownindio
NVIRONMENT advocacy group Phil -
Eippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (Pbest) and think tank Stratbase on Wednesday urged Filipinos to vote for candidates who champion sustainable development, circularity and green policies.
In a recent forum organized by Pbest and the Climate Reality Project (CRP) Philippines, environment experts and other key stakeholders gathered to discuss and boost environmental accountability and transparent governance in the national climate agenda.
In his statement, Stratbase President and Pbest Lead Convener Victor Andres Manhit cited the 2025 midterm elections as an opportunity to drive transformative change in environmental issues through wise public voting.
“We, the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship, urge our fellow Filipinos to support proactive leaders with
green policies to drive a national climate agenda that could build a climate-resilient, sustainable Philippines,” Manhit said.
He emphasized that Filipinos consider environment as a national priority, noting the recent survey commissioned by Stratbase, where 87 percent of voters will support candidates with advocacies addressing climate change impacts and enhancing disaster resilience.
“By choosing leaders who advocate strategic climate action, decarbonization, and the circular economy, we can foster environmental resilience and national sustainability necessary to drive long-term socio-economic stability,” said Manhit.
“Effective climate action requires strategic collaboration with all sectors of society, and these actions should be anchored in transparent and accountable governance,” he added.
Similarly, Environment Undersecretary Jonas Leones emphasized the importance of supporting green policies. He cited the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act as beneficial in encouraging public-private
The report must include the name of the person or organization that funded the survey, the entity that conducted it, the period it was carried out, the methodology used—including the number and location of respondents—the specific questions asked, the survey’s margin of error, and contact details where the sponsor can be reached for a written report.
Raw data supporting the survey’s conclusions must also be made available for Comelec’s inspection.
Meanwhile, media outlets and firms publishing survey results are required to disclose the survey sponsors fully.
partnerships to ensure a comprehensive approach to waste management and resource recovery.
He said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources is coordinating with the Departments of Finance, of Labor and Employment, and of Social Welfare and Development to create incentives for the circular economy efforts of enterprises.
The three departments hope to provide these incentives by the end of the current quarter. “Investing in infrastructure, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, and simplifying administrative processes are also essential in creating a more supportive environment for circular economy,” said Leones.
Meanwhile, CRP Branch Manager Nazrin Castro highlighted that EPR compliance is an opportunity to innovate, cut costs, and meet the growing demand for responsible business and sustainability. “Climate action isn’t a one-time discussion; it requires ongoing inclusive and solutions-driven dialogue across all sectors. The only way forward is through this sustained collaboration,” said Castro. DENR Climate Change Service Director
Survey firms, entities, and media organizations that fail to comply with the new guidelines may face fines, suspension of accreditation, or legal action in cases of deliberate misrepresentation of survey data.
In January, Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia clarified that regulating election surveys does not mean prohibiting them entirely.
“We are not against surveys. The Supreme Court has ruled that they are constitutional. We only seek to understand how they influence voters and public perception,” he said, partly in Filipino.
Comelec said all reports and disclosures will be made available on its website to promote transparency and public trust.
Elenida Basug explained that community participation enhances in developing green solutions, citing public consultations, reporting, and citizen oversight mechanisms as key to ensure national efforts reflect the public’s needs.
“Our ongoing partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions, civil society, and international organizations exemplify the power of collective action in enhancing environmental and climate governance,” said Basug. Rustico Binas, European Union Technical Assistance Support to the Philippines Community Resilience, Climate Change, and Disaster Risk Management expert and team leader, said that strategic collaboration empowers local entities to serve as central coordination points in national initiatives.
“Community involvement in government decision-making is crucial for effective disaster risk reduction and emergency response,” said Binas.
“The community organizing tradition in the Philippines fosters collective action, sustainable solutions, and risk-informed planning, ultimately risk reduction, to avert natural disasters,” he added.
Taguig warehouse yields ₧900-M ‘hot’ luxury cars
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
@reine_alberto
HE Bureau of Customs
T(BOC) seized in another operation an estimated P900 million worth of high-end luxury vehicle in a warehouse in Taguig City.
In a statement on Thursday, the BOC reported the the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) intercepted 44 units of smuggled cars, such as Ferrari, Maserati and Rolls Royce, among others.
“The BOC’s intelligence unit has always been on heightened alert against smuggling operations but I still have to commend this string of operations that led to already billions worth of smuggled luxury cars that these unscrupulous indi -
viduals, organizations, and underground businesses have brought to our shores,” Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said.
CIIS Director Verne Enciso said the cars were found at Auto Vault Speed Shop at Levi Mariano Avenue in barangay Ususan, Taguig City.
“We [Philippines] seem to have a market for these, so some of these businesses and groups have realized the opportunity to profit from the interest these cars generate,” Enciso said.
Two units of Ferrari 488, two units of Mercedes Benz C Class and one unit each of McLaren 720S, Rolls Royce Cullinan, Maserati Levante, Lamborghini Huracan, BMW M3, Dodge RAM, Ferrari 488, Ford Everest, Ford Mustang, GMC Yukon Denali, Honda Civic SIR, Honda S2000, BMW M2, Land
Rover Defender, Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography, Lexus LBX, Lexus LX570, BMW I4, Mazda Miata, Audi A1, Mercedes Benz AMG SLK, Mercedes Benz G Wagon Brabus, Mercedes Benz G63, Mercedes Benz GLE450, were found.
The CIIS-MICP also seized one unit each of Mitsubishi Lancer, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Porsche 997 Carrera, Porsche 993 Turbo, Porsche 911 Turbo, Porsche Cayenne, Porsche Cayman, Porsche GT3, Porsche GT3 RS, Porsche GT3 Touring, Porsche Turbo, Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Corolla Cross, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Toyota Land Cruiser VX.R.
A final inventory is yet to be conducted by Customs examiners to determine the exact year models and other details of the smuggled motor vehicles. The witnesses will include the CIIS, Enforcement and
Security Service (ESS), the Coast Guard (PCG), barangay officials and the warehouse owner.
Meanwhile, the owners, lessees, lessors, occupants, representatives or any parties responsible for the warehouses were given 15 days from the receipt of the Letters of Authority to submit the necessary documents proving that duties and taxes were paid correctly.
They will face charges in violation of Sections 1400 and 1401 in relation to Section 1113 of Republic Act 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), if proper documents are not presented.
This is the third raid conducted by the CIIS on auto shops in Metro Manila selling luxury vehicles. The others were located in the cities of Parañaque, Pasay and Makati.
NCIP, Conservation International promote biodiversity conservation
THE National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and the environmental group Conservation International Philippines recently formalized a partnership aimed at advancing environmental conservation and management in the Philippines.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed recently between the two parties in Quezon City.
NCIP Executive Director Mervyn H. Espadero and NCIP Chairperson Jennifer Sibug-Las, with Conservation International Philippines Country Executive Director Wilson John Barbon and Policy Senior Manager John Coin Yokingco signed the MOU.
As the Philippines faces increasing pressures from climate
change and biodiversity loss, this partnership between NCIP and Conservation International Philippines is particularly significant in the current context, Conservation International Philippines said in a statement. Globally, indigenous peoples are acknowledged as stewards of nearly 40 percent of the world’s intact landscapes, and their traditional knowledge and practices are key to protecting these territories.
This fact holds in the Philippines, where the intersection between biodiverse areas and ancestral domains is apparent: 26 percent of the country’s remaining forests are in protected areas, many of which are in indigenous peoples’ territories. The partnership emphasizes
the importance of integrating traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern conservation techniques, creating a more holistic approach to sustainable land and resource management.
“The importance of this [Memorandum of Understanding] cannot be overstated. It is a vital step towards the empowerment of our Indigenous communities and the preservation of the natural world they protect. As we move forward, let this become a partnership that should start as a beacon of hope—a testament to what we can achieve when we work together with respect, understanding, and solidarity. May this partnership bring lasting change as a priority and a brighter future for the Indigenous peoples of the Philippines
Tuna capital to host intl farm tourism conference
GENERAL Santos City, the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” will host the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference, the country’s largest gathering of practitioners and authorities on farm tourism on February 24-26.
Organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST), this year’s edition is themed “Stimulating Sustainable Economic Growth in Rural Communities through Farm Tourism.”
The event is aimed at facilitating collaboration among farm owners and farmers, and emphasize the positive socio-economic impact of farm tourism.
ISST president Mina Gabor said that this year’s conference will focus on sustainable growth through the cultivation of fruit farms, aquaculture and livestock, and investments on agriculture and tourism.
“The three-day conference opens
DUMAGUETE CITY—A former lawmaker on Thursday underscored the need for budget reforms and the institutionalization of the Kadiwa store system as crucial steps to support the agriculture sector and combat poverty in Negros and the whole country. Former senator Panfilo
with an exhibit of agricultural produce, processed food, native craft and finished products from General Santos and neighboring provinces. Conference participants will also immerse in the diverse cuisine, natural wonders, adventure attractions and exotic culture of the Soccsksargen Region,” Gabor said. She added that Gen. Santos Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao has endorsed the event to the local industry stakeholders to widen their learnings and knowledge on farm tourism to help bring prosperity in the countryside.
Gracing the occasion are Tourism Secretary Esperanza Christina Garcia-Frasco, former senator Manny Pacquiao, Seameo Biotrop (South East Asia Regional Center for Tropical Biology) Human Center and Innovation department manager Dewi Suryani, Agriculture Undersecretary Constante Palabrica, and Center for Interna -
tional Trade, Expositions and Missions (Citem) Executive Director Romleah Pulido Ocampo.
This year’s conference, that will be held at at the KCC Mall, is the first in Mindanao and will showcase the phenomenal progress and peace of the Land of Promise it has attained in recent years.
Topics include Diversified Agriculture and Sustainable Farm Tourism Models, Enhancing the Land for Food Security at Home, Innovations and Technology Adoption for Increasing Farm Productivity and Sustainability, Peace and Trust in the Communities, livestock farms as farm tourism sites, and aquaculture development on new products.
The conference concludes with a familiarization tour to leading farm tourism sites in the Soccsksargen Region, such as Felicidad Orchard, Fish Port Complex, Guava Farm, and Bougainvillea
and the biodiversity they safeguard,” Sibug-Las said.
Barbon for his part, said: “By combining our conservation expertise with NCIP’s commitment to protect the rights of Indigenous peoples, we can truly transform ancestral domains into places where traditional knowledge and science are used to achieve a balanced ecology and genuine community development.”
Both organizations aim to empower Indigenous communities by working together, enabling them to play a central role in managing their ancestral lands while contributing to national and global efforts in sustainable development, climate action, and biodiversity conservation.
Jonathan L. Mayuga
Avenue of Sarangani Highlands. The conference is supported by the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Department of Agriculture—Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Bureau of Animal Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation (Philexport), the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Philippine Airlines as official carrier.
International agencies Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca), and the Asean Center for Biodiversity are partnering again with the ISST to bring in the best practices in the Southeast Asian region.
Collaborating local governments are the provinces of Sarangani, Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat, and the congressional offices of General Santos Rep. Loreto Acharon and Sarangani Rep. Steve Chiongbian Solon.
“This
Group seeks nonstop govt vigilance vs illegal lead smelters, battery recyclers
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
AN environmental group called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local governments to sustain the implementation of laws barring the illegal operation of environmentally destructive lead smelters and recyclers of used lead acid batteries (Ulab).
Solidarity for Environmental Development and Sustainability Philippines (SEEDS PH) issued the call after receiving reports from its members and volunteers in several cities and towns that some lead smelters continue to operate even if they do not have the permits and licenses required by the DENR and local governments.
“Operating without permits and licenses is proof that their facilities and manner of operation do not conform with the regulations set by the government, making them hazardous to the environment and the health of surrounding communities,” the group said in a statement.
The Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) has made a similar appeal to the DENR in a letter sent earlier to Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga.
SEEDS PH received reports that illegal lead smelters and Ulab recyclers are operating clandestinely in Tarlac, Cavite, Valenzuela, Manila, and San Simon, Pampanga.
In San Simon, SEEDS PH said the local government recently padlocked anew the illegal lead smelting facility of Energetically Battery Manufacturing inside the Global Aseana Business Park in barangay De La Paz.
Earlier, Energetically Battery, Chilwee Metallic Manufacturing Corp. and Ecoseal Metallic Manufacturing Corp., were slapped with cease-and-desist orders for operating with lead smelting and
Alyansa
N“Instead
Ulab recycling facilities that do not meet the requirements of national and local laws.
The town of San Simon continues to monitor these illegal smelters and has caught them removing the padlocks and closure orders pasted on their gates.
“We commend Mayor Abundio Punsalan Jr. and the concerned municipal department heads for their vigilance against these smelters, which have been found to have already polluted the river beside Global Aseana Business Park,” SEEDS PH said.
SEEDS PH bared that a DENR-accredited laboratory tested the river and showed that a few meters away from Global Aseana’s discharge point, almost 70 percent of the 23 parameters that were measured already showed contamination. There’s already a significant presence of cadmium and nickel, which can cause cancer and liver failure. The presence of lead in the water has already gone up to an alarming level, and this could cause diseases in the kidney, heart, and blood.
The Biochemical Oxygen Demand and Chemical Oxygen demand have considerably shot up, while the dissolved oxygen and water pH dropped tremendously.
These are clear signs of water pollution and could trigger fish kills. This was probably caused by the dumping into the river of electrolytes from used lead acid batteries that contain sulphuric acid and other toxic chemicals.
SEEDS PH also urged voters to refrain from supporting in the coming elections the local government executives who are allowing these environmentally destructive smelters to operate in their localities.
“A vote for these remiss officials is a vote against the environment and the people’s health and welfare.”
vows fair prices to sugar farmers
EGROS Island— Recognizing the essential role of sugar farmers, the administration-backed Senate slate, Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, is pushing for reforms that will secure fair prices for their products and modernize the sugar industry.
The Alyansa slate campaign manager, Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, said they will push for policies that will modernize sugar mills.
Tiangco also said the slate is committed to secure fair prices for farmers and improving production efficiency to keep the industry globally competitive.
As the country’s “Sugar Bowl,” Negros Occidental produces nearly half of the nation’s sugar supply. The province is home to 15 sugar mills, with 10 currently in operation, including Victorias Mill— the country’s largest sugar processing facility.
“The sugar industry is the lifeblood of Negros Occidental, supporting thousands of families.
Alyansa is committed to modernizing mills, ensuring fair prices for farmers, and investing in infrastructure to keep the industry competitive,” Tiangco said. He added that Alyansa’s economic agenda includes financial support for farmers, improved infrastructure for sugar production, and trade policies to strengthen local producers.
“Negros Occidental’s sugar sector fuels jobs and economic growth. Our commitment is to ensure that this industry remains strong for future generations,” he said.
The 12-member Alyansa slate includes former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay, Sen. Ramon Revilla, Sen. Pia Cayetano, former senator Panfilo Lacson, Sen. Lito Lapid, Sen. Imee Marcos, former senator Manny Pacquiao, former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Sen. Francis Tolentino, House Deputy Majority Leader and former Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo, and Deputy Speaker Camille Villar. Aside from strengthening the sugar industry, Tiangco said Alyansa candidates will also highlight broader economic initiatives, including support for small businesses, job
and programs
DICT boosts cybersecurity for ‘25 elections amid rising digital threats
TBy Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
HE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)
is ramping up its cybersecurity initiatives to safeguard the integrity of the 2025 national and local elections, warning against emerging digital threats that could undermine the democratic process.
DICT Secretary Ivan John E. Uy said cybercriminals are now employing more “sophisticated” tactics to bypass government security measures. “These cybercriminals are highly imaginative and creative. So every time the government takes action to stop them, they find new ways to evade the law and bypass the restrictions we put in place,” he said. Among the department’s key concerns
Lawmakers warn of national security risks posed by military’s use of DeepSeek AI
LAWMAKERS are calling on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to evaluate the national security risks posed by the military’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, particularly the Chinese-developed DeepSeek app. Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte made a statement amid growing tensions between Manila and Beijing over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“It’s time for the military top brass to weigh up the national security risks posed by the AFP’s use of AI-driven chatbots, especially of the Chinese-developed DeepSeek app [application], more so at this time of the deepening conflict between Manila and Beijing over our West Philippine Sea,” Villafuerte said.
During the last session of the Commission on Appointments (CA) before Congress adjourns for the midterm election break, Villafuerte and fellow CA member Batangas Rep. Mario Vittorio Mariño raised concerns over the AFP’s use of free generative AI chatbots, including DeepSeek. These apps have the potential to access and store data from users’ devices, raising security implications.
The issue was discussed during a meeting of the CA’s Committee on National Defense, which was reviewing the promotions of 36 officers to the ranks of general or colonel. Mariño questioned Brig. Gen. Constancio Espina II on whether the AFP planned to regulate or ban AI chatbots, similar to Taiwan’s recent prohibition of DeepSeek.
Villafuerte also inquired about the AFP’s policy on the use of such disruptive technology in military operations.
Espina, who heads the AFP’s Communication, Electronics, and Information Systems Service (CEISSAFP), acknowledged the concerns and said the military was reviewing its policies on AI chatbots.
“Because of that new technology, there might be some revisions on existing policies of AFP preventing us from using all of these technologies for operational matters and matters of national security,” Espina said. He added that, “This does not only apply to DeepSeek but to all emerging technologies we use. We must exercise caution.”
According to Espina, “The AFP is actually seriously considering these kinds of technology, especially since these can be used against us. My point is that it’s not just DeepSeek but also the other technologies that we are using…that we need to use with caution, and then we need to not put in matters that will be detrimental to our national security.”
Villafuerte emphasized that Taiwan had already banned DeepSeek due to security concerns. Taiwan banned government departments on February 3 from using the AI service of DeepSeek that poses a security risk.
“Taiwan has already banned the use of DeepSeek, and the main reason is security risk. I think our armed forces need to seriously consider that…because, as you know, we have a conflict with China right now, and if you take this lightly and act later, it might be detrimental to our security,” he added.
DeepSeek, developed by a startup in Hangzhou, China, is an AI chatbot similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which uses natural language processing to generate humanlike responses. However, Villafuerte noted that unlike ChatGPT or Meta AI, DeepSeek filters sensitive information, particularly topics related to China’s policies.
He pointed out that other chatbots like ChatGPT or Meta AI are far more advanced and do not restrict certain information, especially those pertaining to China and its policies.
Villafuerte said that if you use ChatGPT, for example, and inquire about China’s abuse of power in the South China Sea, it will then talk about the 2016 arbitral ruling on this issue and the respective positions of Manila and Beijing on this territorial dispute.
Since last year, Villafuerte has been advocating for strict regulations on AI technology, particularly in preventing the use of AI-generated deepfake content. His proposed House Bill (HB) No. 10567 seeks to impose penalties ranging from P2 million to P5 million on individuals or entities that produce or distribute deepfake materials without proper disclosure. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
DMW combats crime syndicates luring Filipino workers abroad with massive information drive
HE Department of Migrant Workers
T(DMW) said it has an ongoing massive information drive to combat the crime syndicates, which are recruiting Filipino workers to deploy in crime hubs abroad. It made the remark after the Bureau of Immigration (BI) expressed concern over the increasing incidents of Filipinos, who were hired by scam hubs abroad, which are posing as business process outsourcing (BPO).
“DMW has a lot of preventative programs to address online scams offering overseas jobs—massive info drive, enhanced cooperation with overseas stakeholders, online surveillance to take down such scams,” DMW Undersecretary Bernard P. Olalia said in a Viber message last Thursday. He said they information campaign reminds aspiring overseas Filipino workers not to use tourist visas if they intend to work abroad and to make sure their employment contracts undergo verification from DMW. DMW also coordinated with social media platforms to takedown 71,00 illegal job postings online. It also reiterated its warning to aspiring OFWs to be wary of dubious job offers, which are posted on social media platforms. DMW said the legitimacy of the said job offers can be verified through its website at https://dmw.gov.ph/
The agency also urged the public to
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ahead of the elections is the increasing use of International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers—devices that mimic legitimate telecommunications cell sites to intercept communications and harvest sensitive data.
Uy said this poses a significant risk to both voters and candidates, potentially compromising private conversations and confidential election-related information.
He also warned about the rise of deceptive cyber tactics designed to manipulate voters. He pointed to a “carrot-and-stick” approach used by cybercriminals, where individuals are lured with fraudulent job opportunities, loans, or rewards, while others are coerced into clicking malicious links by scammers impersonating government agencies.
These tactics contribute to digital fraud, misinformation, and disinformation, all
report suspicious activities pertaining to illegal recruitment and human trafficking to its DMW Migrant Workers Protection Bureau Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/dmwairtip,emailatmwpb@dmw.gov. ph, or through their hotline number +63 2 8721-0619.
BI said it got reports of Filipinos who left for Laos, Myanmar or Cambodia to work after being enticed with attractive job offers but ended up being forced to conduct online scams as well as suffering abuse and exploitation from their employers.
The victims were recruited online or by embedded crime syndicate members in local call centers.
It noted that last year, 118 Filipinos fell prey to such schemes.
Last Thursday, DMW said it assisted 12 Filipinos, who were among the 250 people, who were recently rescued in a scam hub in Myanmar.
While they are held captive in the scam center, the victims are beaten with sticks, and subjected to electric shocks.
“The victims safely arrived at the NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City on 19 February 2025 via Cebu Pacific 57864 through the joint efforts of the Philippine Embassy and Migrant Workers Office in Bangkok,” DMW said. Samuel P. Medenilla
of which threaten the credibility of the elections.
To mitigate these risks, Uy said the DICT is working closely with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in enhancing detection mechanisms and educating the public on identifying fake information, misinformation, and deepfakes.
Manila archdiocese to hold vigil for Pope Francis’ healing
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Archdiocese of Manila announced on Thursday that it will hold a Holy Hour for the healing of Pope Francis, following the recent development in the Holy Father’s health condition.
In a circular, Jose F. Cardinal Advincula encouraged the faithful to join the vigil on February 21, at 5:00 P.M. at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila.
“Let us storm heaven with our supplications. Let us accompany Pope Francis with our loving prayers and entrust him to the Lord’s healing hand, as well as his doctors, nurses, and medical professionals,” Advincula said.
The Cardinal had also earlier encouraged parishes and communities across the country to organize their own prayer gatherings, recognizing this as a “trying time for the Church.”
ABy Bless Aubrey Ogerio
CQUIRING a house in the Philippines
should be within reach, President
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said, as he reiterated the administration’s push for inclusive housing policies.
In a written message for the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development’s (DHSUD) sixth anniversary, Marcos highlighted the government’s shift in approach, moving away from viewing homeownership ownership as a privilege.
“Housing should not be an act of charity, nor should it be a distant dream dangled out of reach. A home is not a luxury—it is the ground beneath a family’s stability, the safeguard of its dignity, and a space where aspirations take root,” Marcos wrote.
“Yet, for too long, homeownership has been treated like a privilege to be earned rather than a right to be secured. DHSUD is here to change that,” he added.
The President recognized the agency’s
Remulla. . .
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pushing for a commitment from the mayor to either reduce them or impose a moratorium for the upcoming summer season. He also issued a strong reminder that while Boracay is the most beautiful island in the Philippines, there is growing competition from other destinations. This was a clear message to the mayor about the importance of working with stakeholders and businesses to remain competitive.”
Other fees collected
A MEETING has been planned “in two weeks,” when Bautista is expected to present which fees he is willing to cut or remove. The meeting will also discuss alternative sources of income for the LGU.
Frasco, posting on her Facebook page, stressed, “By aligning national and local efforts, and with valuable insights from resorts, hotels, travel agencies, and tourist transport, we are working towards a globally competitive and thriving tourism environment in Boracay.”
Various fees are also charged by the Malay government on film/TV/advertising crew, ranging from P20,000 to P50,000; fees for group activities for outdoor events P500-P1,500; license fees for tourism establishments P100-P1,400; special weddings P5,000; special lunch/dinner at front beach P5,000/hour + P150 certification fee; fireworks display P1,000 + P150 certification fee; registration fees on tour guides, tour coordinators, and seasonal foreign workers from a registration fee of P50 for a “Peso ID” to P5,000 new tour guide license (P10,000 for foreigners); anchorage fees for cruise ships P100-P10,000 depending on size of sea vessel and provenance; P100 entrance fee for various local tourist sites, among others.
work since its creation in 2019 under Republic Act 11201, particularly its efforts to address the country’s growing housing demand.
“Through bold, people-first programs like the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino [4PH] and the Pasig River Urban Development, we dismantle the notion that opportunities belong only to the fortunate few,” he stated.
While he acknowledged the progress made, the chief executive stressed that the work is far from over, urging continued dedication to solving the country’s housing
To further shield citizens from cyber threats, DICT has implemented several preventive measures, including a ban on clickable links in SMS messages from official sources and working closely with telecommunications providers to block suspicious messages.
Meanwhile, newly installed Filipino cardinal and Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Pablo Virgilio David also urged Catholics to offer prayers for the Pontiff’s recovery.
“Prayers, please…May I ask for your prayers for his healing and recovery during this challenging time,” David wrote in a Facebook post.
He is set to preside over a special Mass for Pope Francis on Friday at 5:00
President Marcos: Owning a home shouldn’t be a luxury
challenges.
“Six years in, and the work is far from over,” Marcos said. “Love, after all, is not proven in promises alone but in the years of dedication that follow.”
“The same holds true for our commitment to housing because a nation’s success is not measured by its tallest towers, but by how many of its people can finally say, ‘Welcome home,’” he added.
As of January, DHSUD reported over 1,000 applications under the 4PH program are being processed, alongside 56 ongoing housing projects nationwide.
The department is also strictly enforcing the SIM Registration Act to curb fraudulent activities and has launched the CyberBantay initiative to promote cyber hygiene and digital safety.
p.m. at the Cathedral of San Roque in Caloocan City.
The prayer vigils come as the Vatican confirmed earlier this week that the 88-year-old Pope has been diagnosed with double pneumonia.
His chest CT scan revealed the “onset of bilateral pneumonia” which require further pharmacological treatment. Despite the severity of his condition, the Holy See reported that Pope Francis is showing “slight improvement,” with blood tests indicating reduced inflammation.
However, according to the Local Shelter Plan Data from December 2019, about 3.75 million Filipino families still live in informal settlements, while the overall housing backlog stands at 6.5 million units.
This year’s DHSUD anniversary, themed “Six Years of Empowering Lives: Building Homes, Building Futures for Every Filipino Family,” underscores the administration’s goal of making homeownership an attainable reality, not just a distant dream.
Brief Job Description: Work with clients to assess their
IOPEX TECHNOLOGIES PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 12b, 12th Flr, Six/neo Bldg., E Square, 5th Ave. Cor. 26th
49. MALANGO, NTAMBWE Customer Service Representative - Bilingual
Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing voice support in French language for international customers in a technical process.
Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig
Basic Qualification: College graduate, with at least 1 year of work
LUCKY PIYAO TRAVEL AND CONSULTANCY INC. 2nd Floor Avr Bldg., 5410 Beaterio St., Barangay 655, Intramuros, City Of Manila
50. BALVIR SINGH Assistant Consultant
Brief Job Description: To assist in the development of client deliverables, such as reports, presentations, and recommendations, based on research findings and analysis.
51. KHIVA, JOTI RANI Assistant Consultant
Brief Job Description: To assist in the development of client deliverables, such as reports, presentations, and recommendations, based on research findings and analysis.
52. PARWINDER SINGH Assistant Consultant
Brief Job Description: To assist
53.
Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in a
82. PHAM,
LUAN Mandarin Interpreter
Brief
83.
TRAN, THI YEN Mandarin Interpreter
Brief Job Description: Directly reports to the general manager and is responsible for support of the office of communications by being able to read, comprehend and translate Mandarin/ Chinese words and ideas into another language.
S-W TRADING CORP. Unit 101, #393 Mindanao Ave. 6, Talipapa, Quezon City
84. KULDEEP SINGH Hindi Marketing Analyst
Brief Job Description: Gathers data from sales, consumers, and competitors. Analyze, visualize, and communicate the interpretation in an interesting and logically connected method.
85. PREET LAV Hindi Marketing Analyst
Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Mandarin languages. Excellent communication skills. At least 1-year experience relevant to the positions.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication
Brief Job Description: Gathers data from sales, consumers, and competitors. Analyze, visualize, and communicate the interpretation in an interesting and logically connected method. Basic
86. SANGER, MANPRET Hindi Marketing Analyst
Brief Job Description: Gathers data from sales, consumers, and competitors. Analyze, visualize, and communicate the interpretation in an interesting and logically connected method.
87. KHAN, MD ZIAUL ISLAM Quality Assurance Specialist
Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance to specifications and deliveries.
88. LIKAYAT Quality Assurance Specialist
Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance to specifications and deliveries.
89. MADBOR, MD AFJAL Quality Assurance Specialist
Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance to specifications and deliveries.
90. MIAH, MD SAGIB Quality Assurance Specialist
Brief
Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bengali & English languages.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bengali & English languages.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bengali
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Hamas releases bodies of 4 hostages, including mother and children, amid tensions in Gaza Strip
By Mohammad Jahjouh, Wafaa Shurafa & Melanie Lidman
The Associated Press
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip— Hamas on Thursday released the bodies of four Israeli hostages, said to include a mother and her two children who have long been feared dead and had come to embody the nation’s agony following the October 7, 2023, attack.
The remains were said to be of Shiri Bibas and her two children, Ariel and Kfir, as well as Oded Lifshitz, who was 83 when he was abducted. Kfir, who was 9 months old when he was taken, was the youngest captive. Hamas has said all four were killed along with their guards in Israeli airstrikes.
“Our hearts—the hearts of an entire nation—lie in tatters,” Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in a statement. “On behalf of the State of Israel, I bow my head and ask for forgiveness. Forgiveness for not protecting you on that terrible day. Forgiveness for not bringing you home safely.”
The militants displayed four black coffins on a stage in the Gaza Strip surrounded by banners, including a large one depicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a vampire. Thousands of people,
including large numbers of masked and armed militants, looked on as the coffins were loaded onto Red Cross vehicles before being driven to Israeli forces.
The military planned to hold a small funeral ceremony, at the request of the families, before transferring the bodies to a laboratory for formal identification using DNA, a process that could take up to two days. Only then will the families be given the final notification.
Israeli channels did not broadcast the handover. In Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, where Israelis have gathered to watch the release of living hostages, a large screen showed a compilation of photos and videos of Lifshitz and the Bibas family, including a chuckling baby Kfir and the family dressed up in Batman costumes.
Israelis have celebrated the return of 24 living hostages in recent weeks under a tenuous ceasefire that paused over 15 months of war. But the handover on Thursday was a grim reminder of those who died in captivity as the talks leading up to the truce dragged on for over a year.
It could also provide impetus for negotiations on the second stage of the ceasefire that have hardly begun. The first phase is set to end at the beginning of March.
Infant was the youngest taken hostage
KFIR Bibas was just 9 months old, a red-headed infant with a toothless smile, when militants stormed into the family’s home on October 7, 2023. His brother Ariel was 4. Video shot that day showed a terrified Shiri swaddling the two boys as militants led them into Gaza.
Her husband, Yarden Bibas, was taken separately and released this month after 16 months in captivity.
Relatives in Israel have clung to hope, marking Kfir’s first and second birthdays and his brother’s fifth. The Bibas family said in a statement Wednesday that it would wait for “identification procedures” before acknowledging that their loved ones were dead.
Supporters throughout Israel have worn orange in solidarity with the family—a reference to two boys’ red hair—and a popular children’s song was written in their honor.
Like the Bibas family, Oded Lifshitz was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz, along with his wife Yocheved, who was freed during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023. Oded was a journalist who campaigned for the recognition of Palestinian rights and peace between Arabs and Jews.
Hamas-led militants abducted 251 hostages, including some 30 children, in the October 7 attack, in which they also killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians.
More than half the hostages, and most of the women and children, have been released in cease -
fire agreements or other deals. Israeli forces have rescued eight and have recovered dozens of bodies of people killed in the initial attack or who died in captivity.
It’s not clear if the ceasefire will last HAMAS is set to free six living hostages on Saturday in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and says it will release four more bodies next week, completing the ceasefire’s first phase. That will leave the militants with some 60 hostages, all men, around half of whom are believed to be dead.
Hamas has said it won’t release the remaining captives without a lasting ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal. Netanyahu, with the full backing of the Trump administration, says he is committed to destroying Hamas’ military and governing capacities and returning all the hostages, goals widely seen as mutually exclusive.
Trump’s proposal to remove some 2 million Palestinians from Gaza so the US can own and rebuild it, which has been welcomed by Netanyahu but universally rejected by Palestinians and Arab countries, has thrown the ceasefire into further doubt.
Hamas could be reluctant to free more hostages if it believes the war will resume with the goal of annihilating the group or forcibly transferring Gaza’s population.
Israel’s military offensive killed over 48,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its records. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 fighters, without providing evidence.
The offensive destroyed vast areas of Gaza, reducing entire neighborhoods to fields of rubble and bombed-out buildings. At its height, the war displaced 90% of Gaza’s population. Many have returned to their homes to find nothing left and no way of rebuilding.
Shurafa reported from Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, and Lidman reported from Tel Aviv, Israel.
Three years in, Ukraine war’s fortunes change as Trump seeks deal with Putin
By The Associated Press
WHEN Russian troops rolled into Ukraine three years ago, they brought their parade uniforms with them on the push to Kyiv. President Vladimir Putin expected a quick victory.
What Putin dubbed the “special military operation” has turned into Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. Tens of thousands have been killed, entire cities have been reduced to smoldering ruins, millions of Ukrainians became refugees, and Russia was isolated from the West.
Now as senior Russian and US officials are talking again and setting the stage for summit meeting, Putin appears closer than ever to cementing Moscow’s gains of about a fifth of Ukraine’s territory and keeping it out of NATO.
President Donald Trump sharply reversed the three-year US policy of isolating Russia when he called Putin and said afterward they agreed “to work together very closely” to end the war. He said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “will be involved” in negotiations but didn’t elaborate.
Trump also expressed understanding of Putin’s key demand on the pivotal issue of Ukraine’s prospective NATO membership that the US and other alliance members previously described as irreversible. “They’ve been saying that for a long time that Ukraine cannot go into NATO,” Trump said of Russia. “And I’m OK with that.”
Changing fortunes
PUTIN invaded on February 24, 2022, after demanding that NATO abandon membership for Ukraine and pull back the alliance’s troops
on NATO’s eastern flank—actions rejected by the West.
He claimed his move was necessary to safeguard Russia’s security interests and protect Russian speakers in Ukraine. Kyiv and its allies denounced his move as an unprovoked act of aggression. Ukrainians saw it as Moscow’s attempt to destroy their national sovereignty and identity.
Russian troops reached the outskirts of Kyiv early in the invasion but pulled back a month later amid heavy losses and Ukraine’s attacks on supply lines. More humiliating setbacks came in September and October 2022, when a Ukrainian counteroffensive forced Russia to pull back from large parts of the Kharkiv region in the northeast and the Kherson region in the south.
Fortunes changed in 2023 when a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the south failed to cut Russia’s land route to the Crimea Peninsula, which Moscow illegally annexed from Kyiv in 2014.
Russia seized the combat initiative last year with offensives along the 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front, making slow but persistent gains. In the fall, Russian forces captured the most territory since the opening of the war. Moscow also pummeled Ukrainian infrastructure with waves of missiles and drones, destroying much of its power generating capacity.
Ukraine struck back in August with an incursion into Russia’s Kursk region to try to distract Moscow’s forces in the east and gain more leverage in potential peace talks. Ukraine still holds some of those gains, but its limited resources are stretched, making it difficult to defend strongholds in the east.
Ukraine’s demands, Trump’s view
WHILE Zelenskyy earlier demanded Russia’s full withdrawal from all occupied areas as a precondition for talks, he later acknowledged Kyiv can’t immediately reclaim all its territory. He said Ukraine won’t abandon its goal of joining NATO—even though Trump dismissed that as “impractical”—and Zelenskyy emphasized needing reliable Western security guarantees and a robust European peacekeeping force to prevent Russian attacks.
Trump’s call with Putin and ensuing Russia-US talks in Saudi Arabia shattered the Biden administration’s “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine” policy. Trump blamed Kyiv for failing to make a deal with Moscow that could have prevented the war, praised Russia’s military might and even suggested that Ukraine “may be Russian someday.”
Zelenskyy said Ukraine won’t accept any deal negotiated without Kyiv and insisted that European allies must participate in peace talks. He dismissed a US-proposed draft agreement that would give Washington a large share of Ukraine’s rare earth minerals as too focused on US interests and had no security guarantees for Kyiv.
Europe in the cold
TRUMP’S approach stunned European allies, whose shock deepened when Vice President JD Vance sharply rebuked them at the Munich security conference over free speech and migration.
While the Trump administration said European allies weren’t welcome at the peace talks, it encouraged them to provide security guarantees for Kyiv in what former British ambassador Nigel
Gould-Davies called a contradictory approach.
Washington “has signaled that the US alone will negotiate an end to the war but also that Europe alone must pay for and enforce an outcome it has not played a role in deciding,” said Gould-Davies, a senior fellow for Russia and Eurasia with the International Institute for Strategic Studies.
Putin’s goals
PUTIN’S key goals remain much the same—that Ukraine renounce joining NATO and enforce the use of the Russian language to keep the country in Moscow’s orbit— but now wants Kyiv to withdraw its forces from the four regions Moscow has seized but doesn’t fully control.
He said a peace agreement could be broadly based on a draft negotiated early in the war that obliged Ukraine to declare neutrality, scale down its military and protect Russian language and culture. Those talks collapsed in April 2022 with no deal.
Putin ruled out a truce, arguing it would benefit Kyiv. But some Kremlin-watchers believe he could accept it if Kyiv agrees to hold elections after a ceasefire.
Trump echoed Putin’s line that Zelenskyy, whose term expired last year, needs to face voters, while Kyiv maintains elections are impossible to hold amid a war. Trump escalated that notion Wednesday by posting on social media that Zelenskyy was “a Dictator without Elections.”
Putin could hope an election would weaken Zelenskyy and lead to political instability, said Tatiana Stanovaya, senior fellow at Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center.
“In his view, most potential
outcomes would be advantageous for Moscow—whether through heightened political infighting, possible protests, or a fragile victory for a new president,” she wrote.
Jack Watling of London’s Royal United Services Institute says Ukraine faces “a politically divisive election, economic paralysis due to a lack of foreign direct investment, and coercive threats from Russia to restart the war” after a truce.
Keeping peace
IT’S unclear who would monitor any potential ceasefire.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said NATO should play no role and that any European troops taking part should not be covered by NATO’s charter obliging allies to aid of any member under attack – conditions that could dampen European enthusiasm about the mission.
While the U.K. and others signal readiness to deploy troops for such a mission, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said after the US-Russian talks in Saudi Arabia that Moscow won’t accept
troops from any NATO members in a peacekeeping force.
Some reports suggested Chinese or Brazilian troops as part of a monitoring force, but those countries haven’t signaled any intention of participation.
Many believe Putin is in no rush to make a peace deal.
“Negotiations appear desirable but by no means necessary for Russia to achieve its goals in its war against Ukraine,” Stanovaya wrote.
“Virtually any outcome will be a good result for Moscow,” she said, pointing at the erosion of Western unity and reduced Western support for Kyiv amid Moscow’s gains.
“Putin has repeatedly made it clear that he believes Russia can achieve its goals in Ukraine without any US-brokered deal,” Stanovaya noted. “As far as he is concerned, Moscow simply needs to wait until Ukraine falls apart of its own accord, after which the Russian army will crush any remaining resistance among the Ukrainian army.”
THIS undated photo provided by Hostages Family Forum shows Shiri Bibas, who was abducted and brought to Gaza on October 7, 2023. HOSTAGES FAMILY FORUM VIA AP
Tensions rise as Zelenskyy and Trump exchange sharp criticism amid Ukraine war negotiations
By Hanna Arhirova & Justin Spike The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Relations between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump deteriorated rapidly Wednesday as Zelenskyy said Trump was living in a Russian-made “disinformation space” and Trump called Zelenskyy “a dictator without elections” in comments that were sure to complicate efforts to end the war.
Zelenskyy also said he would like Trump’s team “to be more truthful” as he offered his first response to a series of striking claims that Trump made a day earlier, including falsely suggesting that Kyiv was to blame for the war, which enters its fourth year next week.
The comments were a staggering back-and-forth between leaders of two countries that have been staunch allies in recent years under Trump’s predecessor. While former President Joe Biden was in the White House, the US provided crucial military equipment to Kyiv to fend off the invasion and used its political weight to defend Ukraine and isolate Russia on the world stage.
The Trump administration has started charting a new course, reaching out to Russia and pushing for a peace deal. Senior officials from both countries held talks Tuesday to discuss improving ties, negotiating an end to the war and potentially preparing a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin after years of frosty relations.
Trump lashes out on social media
TRUMP lashed out at Zelenskyy in a social media post that apparently referred to the fact that Ukraine has delayed elections because of the invasion and the subsequent imposition of martial law in accordance with the Ukrainian Constitution. Trump suggested Ukraine ought to hold elections.
Trump also called Zelenskyy “a modestly successful comedian” who “talked the United States of America into spending $350 Billion Dollars, to go into a War that couldn’t be won, that never had to start, but a War that he, without the US and ‘TRUMP,’ will never be able to settle.”
The president went on to say that the only thing Zelenskyy “was good at was playing Biden ‘like a fiddle.’” He advised Zelenskyy to “move fast or he is not going to have a Country left.”
He later repeated many of the criticisms of Zelenskyy, who he said has done a “terrible job,” during an address before a meeting in Miami of business executives hosted by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund.
Meanwhile, Putin said he would like to meet with Trump.
RUSSIA’S army crossed the border on February 24, 2022, in an all-out invasion that Putin sought to justify by falsely asserting that it was needed to protect civilians in eastern Ukraine. He also accused the US and its allies of ignoring Russia’s demand to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO and to offer Moscow security guarantees. Ukraine and its allies denounced the assault as an unprovoked act of aggression.
“I would like to have a meeting, but it needs to be prepared so that it brings results,” Putin said Wednesday in televised remarks. He added that he would be “pleased” to meet Trump but noted that Trump has acknowledged that a Ukrainian settlement could take longer than he initially hoped.
Putin says he wants to rebuild US-Russia relations
THE Russian leader hailed Tuesday’s talks between senior Russian and US officials in the Saudi capital of Riyadh as “very positive.” He said officials who took part in the talks described the US delegation to him as “completely different people who were open to the negotiation process without any bias, without any condemnation of what was done in the past,” and determined to work together with Moscow.
Putin said “the goal and subject” of Tuesday’s talks “was the restoration of Russia-US relations.”
“Without increasing the level of trust between Russia and the United States, it is impossible to resolve many issues, including the Ukrainian crisis. The goal of this meeting was precisely to increase trust between Russia and the United States,” Putin said.
He brushed off Zelenskyy’s complaints about Ukraine being
left out of the US-Russian talks amid larger worries that the deal taking shape could be unfavorable to Kyiv. Putin said Kyiv’s reaction was “unfounded.”
“President Trump told me during our phone call that the United States are proceeding from the assumption that the negotiations process will involve Russia and Ukraine,” Putin said. “No one is going to exclude Ukraine out of it.”
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that it was “wrong and dangerous” to deny Zelenskyy’s democratic legitimacy. Germany has been Kyiv’s second-biggest weapons supplier after the US.
“That no orderly elections can be held in the middle of the war corresponds to the stipulations of the Ukrainian Constitution and election laws. No one should say anything different,” Scholz told news outlet Der Spiegel.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke Wednesday to Zelenskyy and “stressed the need for everyone to work together,” according to Starmer’s office, which added that it is “perfectly reasonable” to suspend elections during wartime, as the UK did during World War II.
Ukrainian president meets with US special envoy
ZELENSKYY’S remarks Wednesday came shortly before he was to meet with Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia as part of the administration’s recent diplomatic blitz.
At a news conference Tuesday, Trump showed little patience for Ukraine’s objections to being excluded from the talks between top American and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia. He also said, without providing the source, that Zelenskyy’s approval rating stood at 4 percent, while telling reporters that Ukraine “should have never started” the war and “could have made a deal” to prevent it.
Zelenskyy replied Wednesday at his own news conference: “We have seen this disinformation. We understand that it is coming from Russia.” He said that Trump “lives in this disinformation space.”
Zelenskyy said he hoped Kellogg would walk through Kyiv and ask Ukrainians “if they trust their president? Do they trust Putin? Let him ask about Trump, what they think after the statements made by their president.”
The Ukrainian leader also referred to “the story” that 90 percent of all aid received by Ukraine comes from the United States. He said, for instance, that about 34 percent of all weapons in Ukraine are domestically produced and over 30 percent of support comes from Europe.
In other developments, a poll released Wednesday by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology put public trust in Zelenskyy at 57 percent. The survey was conducted February 4 to February 9 among 1,000 people living across Ukraine in regions and territories controlled by the Ukrainian government.
The institute’s executive director, Anton Hrushetskyi, described the result as “very good” for a democratic society. In addition to public trust, he said, Zelenskyy “retains his legitimacy.”
Trump’s treatment of Zelenskyy makes Russia media gleeful RUSSIAN state TV and other state-controlled media reacted with glee to what they portrayed as Trump’s cold shoulder to Zelenskyy.
“Trump isn’t even trying to hide his irritation with Zelenskyy,” the Rossiya channel said at the top of its newscast.
“Trump steamrolled Zelenskyy for his complaints about the talks with Russia,” the daily Komsomolskaya Pravda said.
On the battlefield, a relentless onslaught in eastern areas by Russia’s bigger army is grinding down Ukrainian forces, which are slowly but steadily being pushed back at some points on the 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line.
American officials have signaled that Ukraine’s hopes of joining NATO after reaching a possible peace agreement won’t happen. Zelenskyy says any settlement will require US security commitments to keep Russia at bay.
Italy PM Meloni visits Pope Francis in hospital, says he’s in good spirits
By Nicole Winfield, Andrea Rosa & Paolo Santalucia The Associated Press
OME—Italian Premier
RGiorgia Meloni visited Pope Francis for 20 minutes in the hospital Wednesday and reported he was “alert and responsive” and full of good humor, despite his diagnosis of pneumonia and a complicated bronchial infection that has sidelined the 88-year-old pontiff for six days.
The Vatican said Francis’ overall condition remained stationary, but that blood tests showed a “slight improvement” in key inflammation indices. Francis also worked in the afternoon with his collaborators, the Vatican said in a late statement.
Meloni said she wanted to bring get-well wishes to the pope on behalf of the government and entire nation. “We joked around as always. He has not lost his proverbial sense of humor,” she said in a statement issued by her office.
Meloni is the first confirmed outside visitor known to have called on the pope, beyond his secretaries and medical team, since his admission Friday at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where
popes have their own suite on the 10th floor. Her visit, announced only after it was over, appeared aimed at sending a reassuring message, especially to Italians who haven’t seen even a photograph of Francis since Friday.
The Vatican has said Francis was up, eating and had gotten out of bed after a tranquil night, a day after tests confirmed he had pneumonia in both lungs on top of asthmatic bronchitis.
The Italian premier, who came to power in 2022 with a message touting her Christian credentials, has referred in glowing terms to the influence on her of Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, both reference points for European conservatives like herself. While she and Francis don’t see eye-to-eye on her crackdown on migrants, they have teamed up constructively on a campaign to reverse Italy’s low birthrate.
Her visit came as prayers were pouring in for Francis’ recovery. On Wednesday, Francis’ vicar for Rome urged all the faithful to devote an hour of silent prayer for the pope before evening vespers services, some visitors to Gemelli lit a candle in his honor and pilgrims who had planned
to attend his weekly general audience came to St. Peter’s Square anyway to offer a prayer after it was cancelled.
“I think many people are disappointed but I think more importantly we really have to pray for his health,” said Sister Charlene, a nun from Singapore who was in the piazza.
Francis also received another get-well wish from US Vice President JD Vance, whom the pope recently targeted in criticizing the Trump administration’ s plans for mass deportations of migrants.
“Let’s all say a prayer for Pope Francis, who appears to have some serious health issues,” Vance, a Catholic, posted on X from his private account.
Double pneumonia shows a more serious infection
FRANCIS was admitted to the Gemelli hospital Friday after a weeklong bout of bronchitis worsened. On Monday, medical personnel determined that he was suffering from a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, meaning a mix of viruses, bacteria and possibly other organisms had colonized in his respiratory tract. Late Tuesday, the Vatican said a chest CT scan showed the
onset of bilateral pneumonia on top of asthmatic bronchitis, which is being treated with cortisone and antibiotics.
“I think the key will be how well and quickly he responds to treatment,” said Dr. Andrew Chadwick, a respiratory and intensive care specialist at Oxford University Hospitals.
Bronchitis can lead to pneumonia, which is a deeper and far more serious infection of the lungs’ air sacs. Pneumonia can develop in part or all of one lung or in both lungs. It tends to be more serious when both lungs are affected because there isn’t healthy tissue to compensate.
Treatment varies by severity but can include providing oxygen through a nasal tube or mask, intravenous fluids—and treatment of the underlying cause of the infection. To date, Francis is breathing on his own and his heart function is said to be good. He has eaten breakfast every day, gotten out of bed, read the newspapers and done some work from his hospital room.
“Pope Francis is a strong man who does not let difficulties get him down,” said the Rev. Enzo Fortunato, who heads a new Vatican committee on children. The fact that Francis is keeping
up with his ordinary routine, including receiving the Eucharist, “is a sign of a man who wants to experience the ordinariness of illness in the hospital.”
Pope at risk of complications
T HE Vatican hasn’t provided any information about how Francis is responding to any of the drugs he has been given other than to say he isn’t running a fever. The Argentine pope, who has previously admitted to being a noncompliant patient, has a number of conditions that make him particularly at risk for complications: Aside from his age, he is not physically active and uses a wheelchair, limiting his ability to clear the fluids building up in his lungs.
Dr. Meredith McCormack, director of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Johns Hopkins University, said doctors will be looking to see if Francis responds to the therapy, which can include physiotherapy to help clear the lungs. Severe cases of pneumonia are typically treated for about one to two weeks, but recovery in an older person could extend beyond that.
Pilgrimages continue despite pope’s canceled engagements DESPITE the less than positive news about Francis’ condition, Francis was receiving get-well drawings and cards from children being treated in the hospital’s oncology ward. And at the Vatican on Wednesday, Holy Year pilgrimages continued, with groups of faithful walking through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica on a chilly and cloudy day.
“We are very happy to be here but we are also sad for the pope’s sickness,” said Amparo Alcala’, who was leading a large group of pilgrims from Valencia, Spain.
“He is doing great things, most of all for the women in the church, and this gives us a lot of joy. We are praying for his recovery and that he might come back, if this is God’s will.”
“Lack of worsening would be an encouraging sign,” said McCormack, who is not involved in Francis’ care. The Vatican has given no indication of how long the pope might remain hospitalized, only saying that the treatment of such a “complex clinical picture” would require an “adequate” stay.
UKRAINE’S President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gives a press conference in Kyiv, Wednesday, February 19, 2025. TETIANA DZHAFAROVA/POOL PHOTO VIA AP
Friday, February 21, 2025 A13
Worried NATO holds large-scale combat drills as US stance
on Europe shifts under Trump
By Stephen Mcgrath & Nicolae Dumitrache
The Associated Press
MARDAN, Romania—NATO members
Scontinued their largest combat exercises of 2025 on Wednesday, testing their ability to rapidly deploy large-scale forces on the 32-nation alliance’s eastern border as worries grow over its most powerful member, the United States.
The drills in Romania, which borders Ukraine, come as a shaken Europe grapples with a new US course under President Donald Trump. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has demanded that allies dramatically ramp up military spending and said US security priorities lie elsewhere—casting doubts on Washington’s longstanding security guarantees provided to Europe.
Days before the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Steadfast Dart 2025 drills comprise about 10,000 military personnel from nine nations as part of NATO’s new Allied Reaction Force. They are taking place over six weeks in Romania, Bulgaria and Greece.
Although the Trump administration has not announced plans to pull US forces from the region, Hegseth’s remark that “European allies must lead from the front” left NATO partners contemplating a potential new reality in which the US is no longer the powerful, nuclear-armed backstop for the continent’s security.
Radu Tudor, a defense analyst in Bucharest, said a US rollback of its military presence in Romania would be “a gift” to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The whole eastern flank of NATO (would) become weaker in front of Russia’s aggressive behavior,” he said, adding that it would push Romania to ask NATO allies to contribute troops and weapons to plug the gap left by several thousand American troops.
Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander of the Allied Joint Force Command, said threats to NATO “have become increasingly complex and unpredictable” over the past decade.
“To address this complex security environment, NATO has undergone a significant war-fighting transformation. We have taken our defensive plans from concept to reality,” Munsch told reporters at the training base on Wednesday. “This exercise…represents the culmination of our efforts and the beginning of our new force that will defend every inch of alliance territory.”
European allies have also expressed concern over being sidelined from talks between Washington and Moscow’s top diplomats on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia on working towards ending the war in Ukraine.
The fast-moving developments prompted France’s president to convene select EU countries and the UK for talks this week in Paris.
NATO has bolstered Europe’s eastern flank Wednesday’s combat exercises in Romania saw live-fire training and trench warfare drills. Greek and Spanish marines led exercises last week in Greece, including a mock amphibious assault.
NATO’s new Allied Reaction Force, established last July, is designed to deploy at scale within 10 days and combines conventional forces with cyber and spacebased technologies. Britain leads the operation with 2,600 military personnel and 730 vehicles.
The drills also include Romania, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Italy, Slovenia, Spain and Turkey and involve 1,500 military vehicles, more than 20 aircraft and more than a dozen naval assets.
After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, NATO bolstered its presence on Europe’s eastern flank by sending additional multinational battlegroups to Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria and Slovakia.
Since then, Romania has played an increasingly prominent role in the alliance. It has donated a Patriot missile system to Ukraine and opened an international training hub for F-16 jet pilots from allied countries, including Ukraine.
McGrath reported from Sighisoara, Romania.
Winter-weary East Coast hit with another storm as temperatures plunge elsewhere
By Ben Finley & John Raby The Associated Press
NORFOLK, Va.—Officials urged people to stay off the roads Wednesday in portions of Virginia and North Carolina where a storm dropped heavy snow and caused hundreds of accidents in places unaccustomed to significant accumulations.
The storm that already dropped snow in the Midwest spread across the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys and into places that are just starting to clean up after a weekend of deadly floods.
Up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) of snow was possible through Thursday along the Atlantic Coast in Virginia and major ice accumulations were forecast in eastern North Carolina.
The National Weather Service said snowfall rates of up to 2 inches (5 centimeters) per hour were seen in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia and in northeastern North Carolina.
Meteorologist Alec Butner said additional accumulations were likely Thursday morning. While Butner said the snowfall in Norfolk won’t approach the 1892 record of 18.6 inches (47.2 centimeters), it’s still “fairly infrequent” to reach snowfall totals of about 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 centimeters).
Virginia State Police reported 275 accidents by late Wednesday afternoon, including at least two dozen involving injuries. Accidents also closed portions of Interstate 95 and I-85 near Raleigh, North Carolina. Nearly 5,600 flights were canceled or delayed across the US, including more than 400 in and out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina, according to the flight-tracking site FlightAware.com. Elsewhere, a polar vortex sent temperatures plunging from Montana to southern Texas.
‘Too much for us’
AS thick snowflakes pelted Norfolk, Virginia, a line of shoppers snaked deep into a Harris Teeter grocery store, past loaves of bread on shelves. In the parking lot of a Total Wine store, college students in fraternity sweatshirts lugged a keg of beer to their car.
But on the sidewalks of the city’s historic Ghent neighborhood, there was an eerie quiet. A white-haired shih tzu named Sasha tramped delicately in newly fallen snow Wednesday.
“This is a little weird for her. I love the snow, but it looks like this is a bit too much for us,” said Sasha’s owner, Lotfi Hamdi, who stocked up on milk and bread. “If it’s more than five inches, I think that’s a bit risky for us. Luckily I’m off for the next couple of days.”
Sasha isn’t alone in feeling out of sorts. The winter months in this city of 230,000 people on the Chesapeake Bay sometimes pass with barely a dusting of snow. Schools and many businesses closed Wednesday throughout the Hampton Roads region and could remain shuttered into the weekend. The Norfolk Naval Shipyard reduced operations.
Deja storm all over again Virginia remained under a state of emergency that Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued for another storm last week that allowed the National Guard and state agencies to assist local governments. North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein followed with an emergency declaration Tuesday. Both urged motorists to stay off the roads.
As snow, sleet and freezing rain arrived, Stein warned that “our greatest concerns remain power outages and road safety.”
Potential ice accumulations of up to one-half inch (1.3 centimeters) in places like Greenville and Goldsboro would cause tree branches to snap, said North
Australian and New Zealand militaries monitor movement of Chinese warships off east coast
MBy Rod Mcguirk The Associated Press
ELBOURNE, Australia—The Australian and New Zealand
militaries were monitoring three Chinese warships moving unusually far south along Australia’s east coast on an unknown mission, officials said Thursday. The Australian government revealed a week ago that the warships had traveled through Southeast Asia and the Coral Sea and were approaching northeast Australia. Defense Minister Richard Marles said Thursday that the Chinese ships—the naval frigate Hengyang, cruiser Zunyi and replenishment vessel Weishanhu—were “off the east coast of Australia.” Defense officials did not respond to a request for comment on a Financial Times report that the task group from China’s military, the People’s Liberation Army, was 150 nautical miles (278 kilometers) east of Sydney.
“There is no doubt that this is, not unprecedented, but an unusual event,” Marles told Sky News television.
Australia says Chinese warships entitled to deploy off Australian coast
MARLES said Australian navy ships and air force planes were monitoring the Chinese ships’ movements through international waters that are in Australia’s exclusive economic zone, the area beyond its territorial waters where a nation has exclusive economic rights.
“They’re entitled to be where they are; Australia is also entitled to be prudent and we are monitoring very closely what the activities of the task group are,” Marles told reporters.
“What we will do whenever this mission is over on the part of the Chinese task group
is engage in a full assessment of what the Chinese were seeking to achieve in respect of this mission,” he added.
In Beijing, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun was asked at a media briefing on Wednesday about the Chinese warships’ location and replied he was not aware of the situation. The Chinese Embassy in Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.
Australia engages with Papua New Guinea and New Zealand over Chinese warships MARLES said Australia had engaged with its nearest neighbor Papua New Guinea over its response because the Chinese had traveled around the South Pacific island nation’s coast on their way to Australia’s exclusive economic zone.
Australia was also “working very closely” with New Zealand, which is separated from the Australian east coast by the Tasman Sea, he said.
New Zealand’s military was also monitoring the Chinese ships by sea and air “in coordination with Australia,” New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins said in a statement.
“We have not been informed by the Chinese government why this task group has been deployed into our region, and we have not been informed what its future plans are,” she added. “We will continue to monitor these vessels.”
Expert says China’s navy is projecting power around the world
JENNIFER PARKER , an expert associate of Australia’s National Security College and a former Australian naval officer, said Chinese warships rarely traveled so far south along the nation’s east coast.
“This is part of a broader power
Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray.
Officials said more than 1,200 crew members were ready or already clearing roads.
Snow after floods
WEEKEND storms that pummeled the eastern US killed at least 19 people, including 14 in Kentucky, where a half-foot (15 centimeters) or more of snow was expected Wednesday.
“This is a snowstorm in the middle of a natural disaster,” Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said.
In southern West Virginia, weekend floods killed three people in McDowell County, destroying roads and disrupting public water systems. Shelters remained open at churches and schools.
The incoming snowstorm “is going to severely hinder, if not halt, a lot of the efforts that we have,”
are monitoring the situation and observing what is going on, as you would expect,” Albanese said.
projection from the PLA-Navy and we should expect to see more of this in the Pacific and in the Indian Ocean,” Parker said.
The Chinese deployment comes as the head of US Indo-Pacific Command Adm.
Samuel Paparo visits Australia this week.
Parker said the timing was likely coincidental given the Chinese deployment would have been planned well in advance and the United States doesn’t release information about their senior officers’ travel until close to the visit.
“Without knowing exactly where the ships are going, the point of this deployment, I think, is to demonstrate to Australia that they have the capability to come down and operate in our maritime domain,” Parker said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told a news conference he was not worried by reports of Chinese warships off Sydney.
“The Chinese naval ships are complying with international law, but as we do, we
Relations between the Chinese and Australian militaries remain dangerous
THREE Chinese warships visited Sydney Harbor in 2019. But their voyage had been approved by the Australian government.
Australia’s diplomatic and trade relations with China have improved in recent years, but relations between the two militaries are dangerous.
Australia protested what it described as an unsafe interaction last week over the South China Sea where a Chinese fighter is accused of releasing flares that endangered an Australian military surveillance plane.
Guo, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, accused the Australian aircraft of “deliberately” intruding into airspace over the disputed Paracel Islands, which China claims.
The Associated Press writer Charlotte Graham-McLay in Wellington, New Zealand, contributed to this report.
said McDowell County Commissioner Michael Brooks.
Bone-chilling cold
About 100 million people in the nation’s midsection were gripped by a cold wave. Hundreds of public school districts canceled classes or switched to online learning for a second day Wednesday in Oklahoma, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri.
Ashley Pippin, a spokeswoman for Special Olympics Kansas, is getting tired of the cold even as the group organizes a series of fundraising polar plunges, including three this weekend. It’s so cold, firefighters might have to go out and break the ice.
“We’ve done it before,” Pippin said.
Hettinger, North Dakota, recorded a low temperature of minus 45 degrees (minus 42 Celsius) on
Wednesday and had warmed to minus 13 (minus 25 Celsius) by midday. Denver broke a 19-yearold record when it dipped to minus 6 (minus 21 Celsius). In San Antonio, Texas, wind chill readings could dip as low as minus 2 (minus 19 Celsius) early Thursday.
Earlier this month, famous groundhog Punxsatawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter weather.
“I was thinking I’d like to choke him,” said Robin White Stevens of hard-hit Grundy, Virginia, whose challenges this winter have included falling on her hip while walking along icy ditch lines. “We can’t catch a break weatherwise. Snow, flood. It’s a mess around here.”
But Michele Hunter, who drives a bus for a southeast Virginia transit authority and hails from Buffalo, New York, had a different take on winter. While she stocked up on groceries because stores were closing down, she said she’s more accustomed to blizzards that bring feet of snow—not inches. In Buffalo, life still mostly goes on, she said, unlike the standstill she’s witnessing in coastal Virginia.
“This is light,” she said of the snow falling around her. “In Buffalo, we have to dig tunnels in order to get to the end of the street, to get on a snowmobile, to go get groceries. This is nothing.”
Raby reported from Charleston, West Virginia. Associated Press writers Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas, and Gary Robertson and Makiya Seminera in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report.
South Korea’s Yoon fights rebellion charges, impeachment over martial law declaration
By Kim Tong-Hyung The Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea—Traveling around Seoul in a prison transport vehicle, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in two different courts on Thursday, contesting his arrest on rebellion charges in one and fighting an effort to remove him from office in the other.
Both cases—one on criminal charges, one an impeachment—are related to his brief imposition of martial law in December.
Security was heightened at the Seoul Central District Court as the motorcade transporting Yoon arrived for a preliminary hearing that involved discussions of witnesses, proposed evidence and other preparations for his criminal trial.
The court, which scheduled another preliminary hearing in March, was also reviewing a request by Yoon’s lawyers to cancel his arrest and release him from custody. Such challenges are rarely successful. The court was expected to make a decision sometime during Thursday evening.
Yoon next traveled across the capital to the Constitutional Court, which is nearing a decision on whether to formally remove him from office after was impeached by the National Assembly. Yoon was expected to face key impeachment witnesses, including Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who has told lawmakers and investigators that Yoon sidestepped a constitutional requirement to deliberate in a formal meeting of the Cabinet before declaring martial law on December 3.
The court has also called Hong Jangwon, former first deputy director of South Korea’s spy agency, who has said that Yoon had ordered him to help a defense counterintelligence unit detain key politicians, including National Assembly
speaker Woo Won Shik and opposition leader Lee Jae-myung. Yoon was indicted Jan. 26 on rebellion charges, which carry a potential punishment of death or life in prison. In South Korea, presidents have immunity from most criminal prosecutions, but not on charges of rebellion or treason.
The indictment alleges his imposition of martial law was an illegal attempt to shut down the National Assembly and arrest politicians and election authorities. The conservative Yoon has said his martial law declaration was intended as a temporary warning to the liberal opposition and that he had always planned to respect lawmakers’ will if they voted to lift the measure. Yoon’s presidential powers were suspended when he was impeached December 14, leaving him to fight for his political life at the Constitutional Court. Martial law was lifted about six hours after Yoon declared it but has caused political turmoil, disrupted high-level diplomacy and tested the resiliency of the country’s democracy. Yoon’s conservative supporters rioted at the Seoul Western District Court after it authorized his arrest last month, while his lawyers and ruling party have openly questioned the credibility of courts and law enforcement institutions handling the case.
Yoon has continued to express contempt for his liberal rivals for obstructing his agenda and endorsed baseless conspiracy theories about election fraud to justify his ill-fated authoritarian push.
Yoon’s defense minister, police chief and several military commanders have also been arrested and indicted on rebellion, abuse of power and other charges related to the martial law decree, which involved hundreds of heavily armed troops deployed to the National Assembly and National Election Commission offices.
PEDESTRIANS
China begins repatriation of more than 1,000 online scam workers rescued from Myanmar
By Jutarat Skulpichetrat & Grant Peck The Associated Press
BANGKOK—An airlift carrying more than 1,000 Chinese nationals who had worked at online scam centers in eastern Myanmar began Thursday, after the rescued workers were taken across the border to Thailand and put on chartered flights to China.
Thailand, China and Myanmar have coordinated efforts over the past month to shut down the scam centers that bilked victims around the world out of billions of dollars through false romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches and illegal gambling schemes.
flight tracking websites as Jinghong in southwestern China’s Yunnan province.
Thai authorities are overseeing the evacuation and processing of scam center workers from other nations. Last week, some 260 people from 20 nations, including many from Africa, crossed from Myanmar into Thai custody after they were reportedly rescued from scam centers.
The organized repatriation of
Thai
workers being trafficked through Thailand have circulated widely on Chinese social media. The Thai government and others fear it will discourage the lucrative market of inbound Chinese tourists.
The Border Guard Force in Myawaddy, a militia of the Karen ethnic minority that controls the area, has organized the repatriation of foreign workers from Myanmar. But critics have accused the group of involvement in the criminal activities by providing protection to the scam centers. It denies the accusations.
Hundreds of thousands of people from Southeast Asia and elsewhere are estimated to have worked at such centers in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, and many were recruited under false pretenses for other jobs and found themselves trapped in virtual slavery.
Thai officials said recently that as many as 10,000 people may be repatriated from Myanmar from the online scam centers. So far, 16 flights, or about four a day, have been scheduled to repatriate the Chinese nationals, accompanied by police. Because of the large
number of Chinese—the projected number so far is 1,041—Thailand is allowing Beijing to handle most of their processing and investigations on their return to China.
Thai officials told reporters on Thursday the rescued workers were being taken in batches of 50 across a
White House misrepresents Social Security data, inflates fraud claims
By Fatima Hussein The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—The Trump administration is falsely claiming that tens of millions of dead people over 100 years old are receiving Social Security payments.
Over the past few days, President Donald Trump and billionaire adviser Elon Musk have said on social media and in press briefings that people who are 100, 200 and even 300 years old are improperly getting benefits—a “HUGE problem,” Musk wrote, as his Department of Government Efficiency digs into federal agencies to root out waste, fraud and abuse.
It is true that improper payments have been made, including some to dead people. But the numbers thrown out by Musk and the White House are overstated and misrepresent Social Security data.
Here are the facts:
What has the Trump administration said about payments to centenarians?
On Tuesday, Trump said at a press briefing in Florida that “we have millions and millions of people over 100 years old” receiving Social Security benefits. “They’re obviously fraudulent or incompetent,” Trump said.
“If you take all of those millions of people off Social Security, all of a sudden we have a very powerful Social Security with people that are 80 and 70 and 90, but not 200 years old,” he said. He also said that there’s one person in the system listed as 360 years old.
Late Monday, Musk posted a slew of posts on his social media platform X, including: “Maybe Twilight is real and there are a lot of vampires collecting Social Security,” and “Having tens of millions of people marked in Social Security as “ALIVE” when they are definitely dead is a HUGE problem. Obviously. Some of these people would have been alive before America existed as a country. Think about that for a second…”
On Wednesday, Social Security’s new acting commissioner, Lee Dudek, acknowledged recent reporting about the number of people older than age 100 who may be receiving benefits from Social Security. “The reported data are people in our records with a Social Security number who do not have a date of death associated with their record. These individuals are not necessarily receiving benefits.”
“I am confident that with DOGE’s help and the commitment of our executive team and workforce, that Social Security
will continue to deliver for the American people,” Dudek said. How big of a problem is Social Security fraud?
A July 2024 report from Social Security’s inspector general states that from fiscal years 2015 through 2022, the agency paid out almost $8.6 trillion in benefits, including $71.8 billion—or less than 1 percent—in improper payments. Most of the erroneous payments were overpayments to living people.
In addition, in early January, the US Treasury clawed back more than $31 million in a variety of federal payments— not just Social Security payments— that improperly went to dead people, a recovery that former Treasury official David Lebryk said was “just the tip of the iceberg.”
The money was reclaimed as part of a five-month pilot program after Congress gave the Department of Treasury temporary access to the Social Security Administration’s “Full Death Master File” for three years as part of the omnibus appropriations bill in 2021. The SSA maintains the most complete federal database of individuals who have died, and the file contains more than 142 million records, which go back to 1899, according to the Treasury.
Treasury estimated in January that it would recover more than $215 million during its three-year access period, which runs from December 2023 through 2026. So are tens of millions of people over 100 years old receiving benefits?
No. Part of the confusion comes from Social Security’s software system based on the COBOL programming language, which has a lack of date type. This means that some entries with missing or incomplete birthdates will default to a reference point of more than 150 years ago. The news organization WIRED first reported on the use of COBOL programming language at the Social Security Administration. Additionally, a series of reports from the Social Security Administration’s in -
spector general in March 2023 and July 2024 state that the agency has not established a new system to properly annotate death information in its database, which included roughly 18.9 million Social Security numbers of people born in 1920 or earlier but were not marked as deceased. This does not mean, however, that these individuals were receiving benefits.
The agency decided not to update the database because of the cost to do so, which would run upward of $9 million.
A July 2023 Social Security OIG report states that “almost none of the number holders discussed in the report currently receive SSA payments.” And, as of September 2015, the agency automatically stops payments to people who are older than 115 years old.
What are some of the concerns about misinformation on Social Security payments?
Chuck Blahous, a senior research strategist at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, said, “Two cheers for Elon Musk if he can root out and put a stop to improper payments.”
But to pick the places in the federal government where error rates are high, “Social Security would be near the bottom of the list, not near the top,” Blahous said. “Medicaid improper payment rates are quite substantial, and soared after the Medicaid expansion of the ACA.”
“By all means — go after any improper payments that are found, but let’s not pretend that’s where the system’s biggest financial problems are,” he said.
Sita Nataraj Slavov, a professor of public policy at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, said the claims by Musk and Trump will make people think the solutions to the government’s financial problems are simpler than they appear.
“The real concern is that this claim may mislead people into thinking there’s an easy fix to Social Security’s financial problems—that we can somehow restore solvency without making sacrifices through higher taxes or lower benefits,” Slavov said. “This is simply not true.”
bridge from Myanmar’s Myawaddy to Thailand’s Mae Sot, where they were processed—including with biometric scans—and sent on by bus to Mae Sot’s airport.
There they boarded China Southern Airlines planes, whose destination was shown by
Thailand cut off electricity, internet and gas supplies to several areas in Myanmar hosting scam centers along the border, citing national security and the damage that Thailand has suffered from the operations.
Thailand wants to cooperate with China since reports about scam
An earlier crackdown on scam centers in Myanmar happened in late 2023, after China expressed embarrassment and concern over illegal casinos and scam operations along its border in Myanmar’s northern Shan state.
Ethnic guerrilla groups with close ties to Beijing shut down many operations, and an estimated 45,000 Chinese nationals suspected of involvement were repatriated. Associated Press journalist Jutarat Skulpichetrat reported from Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Federal Reserve officials see risks of higher inflation ahead, support pause in rate cuts
By Christopher Rugaber AP Economics Writer
WASHINGTON—Federal
Reserve officials at a meeting last month pointed to rising risks that inflation could worsen, a key reason they kept their benchmark interest rate unchanged.
According to minutes of the January 28-29 meeting, which were released Wednesday, Fed officials said that President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs and mass deportations of migrants, as well as strong consumer spending, were factors that could push inflation higher this year. The Fed’s 19 officials who participate in its interest-rate decisions indicated that “they would want to see further progress on inflation before making” any further cuts. They kept the Fed’s key rate at 4.3 percent, after cutting it from a two-
Rubio will skip G20 meeting after calling host South Africa’s policies anti-American
By Michelle Gumede The Associated Press
JOHANNESBURG—US Secretary of State
Marco Rubio will skip a two-day meeting of foreign ministers from the leading rich and developing nations that starts on Thursday after criticizing host South Africa’s policies as anti-American.
Instead, Rubio was headed back to the United States on Wednesday from his first trip to the Middle East as America’s chief diplomat, and after leading a US delegation in talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia over the war in Ukraine.
Rubio spoke with the foreign ministers of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the European Union’s foreign policy chief to brief them immediately after Tuesday’s meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the State Department said. Top European diplomats, as well as Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi are all expected at the Group of 20 meeting in Johannesburg while the US will be represented by a lower-level delegation.
A G20 meeting would normally be an opportunity for a US secretary of state to push for support on US positions, especially at the start of a new administration.
Analysts say Rubio’s absence reflects the Trump administration’s indifference to organizations promoting international cooperation, but Rubio has also directly rejected South Africa’s priorities for its G20 presidency. The hosts have picked “solidarity, equality, sustainability” as the theme of the G20 this year.
South Africa, the first African nation to hold the group’s presidency, says it will try to advance the interests of poor countries, especially with debt refinancing and helping them mitigate the impacts of climate change, where the developing world is asking rich countries to pay more.
Rubio posted on X this month that he would also not attend the main G20 summit in Johannesburg in November, saying South Africa was using the gathering to promote diversity, equality and inclusion frameworks, “In other words: DEI and climate change.”
“My job is to advance America’s national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism,” Rubio wrote.
Rubio’s decision to skip the G20 meeting also underscores a major deterioration in US relations with South Africa, one of its key trade partners in Africa.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this month stopping US aid and assistance to South Africa over a land law that he says discriminates against some of the country’s white minority. The order also called South Africa’s foreign policy anti-American and criticized its ongoing case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza at the United Nations’ top court, and what it said was the country’s closeness to the Communist Party in China.
South Africa is due to hand over the presidency of the G20 to the US at the end of this year, and the two countries are expected to work together under G20 protocols.
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said on Wednesday that the US would be represented in Johannesburg this week “in one form or shape or another” and stressed that Rubio’s decision was “not a complete boycott of South Africa’s G20” by the US.
Analysts in Africa say they still see a way for the G20 to make progress under South Africa’s presidency, even with limited US interest. The EU, Russia and China have expressed support for South Africa’s G20 leadership.
“No one wants to be on the wrong side of the United States,” said Oscar van Heerden, senior researcher at the University of Johannesburg’s Centre of African Diplomacy and Leadership. “But I think everyone also realizes that what drives the foreign policy of the United States is not necessarily what drives the foreign policy of the European Union or the other members of the G20.” European allies have their own concerns over future cooperation with the Trump administration after they were sidelined by its move to hold bilateral talks this week with Russia.
“Multilateralism is under threat right now,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in South Africa, “We also need to use this opportunity to develop the international system further to be more inclusive for all countries in the world.” Associated Press writers Matthew Lee in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Mogomotsi Magome in Johannesburg and Gerald Imray in Cape Town, South Africa, contributed to this report.
decade high of 5.3 percent late last year. The Fed’s pause makes it less likely that borrowing costs for consumers, including for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards, will decline anytime soon.
Just last week, the government released data that suggested inflation was actually getting worse, leading many economists to forecast just one—if any—rate cut this year. Consumer prices rose 3 percent in January from a year ago, the Labor Department said, up from a 3 1/2 year low of 2.4 percent last September. The Fed, however, more closely follows a separate inflation measure that is shows inflation is closer to 2.5 percent.
The minutes also cited a “high degree of uncertainty” surrounding the economy, which made it appropriate for the Fed to “take a careful
approach” in considering any further changes to its key interest rate. All of the Fed’s policymakers supported keeping its key rate un -
changed last month, the minutes said. The unanimity comes after signs of a growing disagreement in recent months between those officials who supported further rate reductions and those more worried about stubborn inflation.
A key issue, particularly on Wall Street, is how long the Fed’s pause on rate cuts will last. Wall Street investors expect the central bank won’t cut again until July, according to futures prices. They don’t forecast a second cut until 2026.
Many Fed officials have also said they want to see how Trump’s proposed tariffs and immigration crackdown affect the economy. Most economists forecast that the tariffs will push up inflation, though some also argue that Trump’s promises to reduce regulation could lower consumer prices over time.
On Monday, Fed governor Christopher Waller said in a speech in Australia that he still expects rates to come down this year, but for now he supports a pause. Waller said that if the inflation uptick last month turns out to be a blip, as it did in January 2024, “rate cuts would be appropriate at some point this year.”
Waller also said that he didn’t think new tariffs would significantly raise inflation, and added that any increase in prices would likely be temporary. As a result, he said the Fed shouldn’t necessarily change its policies because of tariffs.
“I haven’t altered my outlook based on what has been implemented to date,” he said, referring to Trump’s tariff announcements.
Germany votes Sunday for a new government that will shape Europe’s response to an assertive Trump
BBy Geir Moulson
The Associated Press
ERLIN—German voters go to the polls Sunday to elect a new parliament that will determine how the country is run for the next four years.
Europe’s biggest economy is the 27-nation European Union’s most populous nation and a leading member of NATO, as well as the secondbiggest weapons supplier to Ukraine, after the United States, following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Germany’s next government will be central to Europe’s response to an assertive new US administration.
Here’s a look at what to expect for Sunday and beyond.
What happens on election day?
Polls are due to open at 8 a.m. and close at 6 p.m.. Germans can also vote by postal ballot, but their ballot must arrive by the time polling stations close on election day to be counted.
Exit polls will come and votecounting will begin immediately after voting ends, and the general picture of the outcome should be clear very quickly. A final official result is expected early Monday.
Who are the contenders?
Four candidates are running to be Germany’s next leader: incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz, of the center-left Social Democrats; Friedrich Merz, the candidate of the mainstream conservative Christian Democratic Union party; current
Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, of the environmentalist Greens; and Alice Weidel, of the far-right, antiimmigration Alternative for Germany, or AfD.
Preelection polls have put Merz’s Union bloc in the lead with support of about 30 percent, ahead of AfD, with around 20 percent. Scholz’s Social Democrats and Habeck’s Greens are further back.
Merz is favored to replace Scholz as chancellor, but it’s not yet clear what governing coalitions will be possible after the election. How easy it is to form a government may depend in part on how many parties are in the new parliament. Opinion polls show three parties hovering around the 5 percent of the vote needed to win seats.
All mainstream parties say they won’t work with AfD.
What’s up for grabs?
At least 59.2 million people in a country of 84 million are eligible to vote for the new Bundestag, or lower house of parliament. It is the 630-member Bundestag that will elect the next chancellor, Germany’s equivalent of a prime minister.
There are 29 parties on the ballot, but it’s likely that between five and eight of them will get enough votes to win seats in parliament. In most cases, parties must win at least 5 percent of the vote to get a share of the seats.
What happens after polls close?
Germany’s electoral system rarely gives any party an absolute majority and opinion polls suggest that no party is anywhere near one this time. The country has no tradition of minority governments at national level, which
South Africa prepares to host G20 meeting of foreign ministers amid tensions with US
By Mogomotsi Magome & Michelle Gumede The Associated Press
JOHANNESBURG—A meeting of foreign ministers from G20 countries will take place in Johannesburg on Thursday, but US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend amid diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the US. Diplomats including Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi are expected to attend the gathering, while the US will be represented by acting ambassador to South Africa Dana Brown.
The European Union, the United Nations and the African Union, which is part of the G20, will also be in attendance.
Rubio snubbed the meeting after an executive order by US President Donald Trump stopped foreign aid to the country over a law that the White House said amounts to discrimination against the country’s white minority. The US is also displeased with South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
means that two or more parties will most likely form a coalition. There is no formal referee for the process of forming a new government, and no set time limit. Parties hold exploratory talks to determine who they have most common ground with, and one combination of parties then moves on to formal coalition talks. Those negotiations typically produce a detailed coalition agreement setting out the new government’s plans. That will typically need approval at least from conventions of the parties involved. Some parties may choose to put it to a ballot of their entire membership.
Once that process is complete, the Bundestag can elect the new chancellor.
What’s at stake?
A strong German government would be important to Europe’s response to the new US administration and to turmoil in Ukraine and elsewhere.
Germany and neighboring France have traditionally been the motor of the EU, but both heavyweights have been consumed by domestic political instability in recent months. This election is being held seven months earlier than originally planned because Scholz’s three-party coalition collapsed in November as it argued about how to reinvigorate the economy, which has shrunk for the past two years. One of the new government’s most urgent tasks will be to find a coherent response to that problem.
“I think if we want to really know what message the US administration is trying to send, you have to know whether the treasury secretary will come next week or not. And if he chooses not to come as well, that’s a quite serious sign,” said political analyst Daniel Bradlow.
US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent has also confirmed his will not attend a meeting of G20 finance ministers scheduled to take place in South Africa next week.
Bessent said on the social media platform X that he would not participate in the event because of obligations in Washington. A senior Treasury official will attend in his place, he said.
Analysts say that Rubio and Bessent’s absence signaled the US was pulling back from the G20 and demonstrated how strained relations are.
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola has said that Rubio’s decision was “not a complete boycott of South Africa’s G20.” He said the US would be represented in Johannesburg this week “in one form or shape or another.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to officially open and address the gathering under the theme “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability,” which Rubio has described as a diversity, equality and inclusion framework—one that the new Trump administration vocally opposes. South Africa will host over 130 working group meetings and 23 ministerial-level meetings this year as part of their G20 presidency, which began in December last year.
The US is expected to take over the G20 presidency in 2026 after South Africa’s tenure.
Who are the hostages freed by Hamas as part of the ceasefire deal in Gaza?
By The Associated Press
JERUSALEM—The bodies of four Israelis taken captive by Hamas, including those said to be of the last female and child hostages in Gaza, were released Thursday, bringing to 28 the number of captives freed since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on January 19.
The bodies returned to Israel are presumed to include Shiri Bibas and her two sons, Ariel and Kfir, whose plight has captivated Israelis since they were taken during Hamas’ deadly attack on October 7, 2023. The body of one of the oldest hostages held was also said to have been returned. The remains now need to be formally identified.
In the first phase of the ceasefire deal, a total of 33 hostages in Gaza—eight of whom are dead—are supposed to be freed in exchange for almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Five Thai citizens who were working in Israel on the day of the attack were freed last month as part of a separate deal.
Hamas-led militants took 251 hostages during their October 7, 2023, attack that launched the war in Gaza. More than 60 hostages remain in Gaza, although about half are believed to be dead. The others were released, rescued, or their bodies recovered.
Israel’s military campaign has killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many were fighters but says more than half were women or children.
Here’s a look at the hostages returned so far:
Shiri, Ariel and Kfir Bibas
THE bodies said to be of Shiri Bibas and her two sons, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, were returned Thursday. They were abducted along with Shiri’s husband, Yarden, from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023. Hamas said the three were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Yarden Bibas was released earlier this month during the ceasefire deal.
A video capturing their abduction showed a terrified Shiri Bibas swaddling her two redheaded sons in a blanket and being carried away by militants. The footage ricocheted around the world in the hours after the attack began.
Ariel was 4 years old at the time of the attack and his brother, Kfir, was 9 months old, making him the youngest captive taken by Hamas. Ariel Bibas loved Batman and family photos showed the four Bibases dressed as the character. Kfir, the infant with red hair and a toothless smile, became a symbol across Israel for the feelings of helplessness and anger over the hostages’ captivity.
Oded Lifshitz, 84
THE body said to be of Oded Lifshitz, one of the oldest hostages held by the militants, was returned Thursday. He was taken captive from his home in
Kibbutz Nir Oz, along with his wife, Yocheved Lifshitz, who was freed during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.
Oded Lifshitz was shot in the hand in the attack. His family has suspected for months that he died in captivity.
The couple are among the founders of Nir Oz. Oded, a journalist, campaigned for the recognition of Palestinian rights and peace between Arabs and Jews. In retirement, he drove to the Erez border crossing on the northern edge of the Gaza Strip once a week to ferry Palestinians to medical appointments in Israel as part of a group called On the Way to Recovery.
Oded took pride in his work helping the traditionally nomadic Bedouin people of the Negev Desert, his daughter told The Associated Press, describing a case that went to Israel’s High Court and resulted in the return of some of their land.
Sagui Dekel Chen, 36 AN Israeli-American, Chen was working outside on his pet project, bus conversions, when militants stormed his kibbutz. He instructed his wife, Avital, to hide in the safe room with their two daughters. Chen, one of the first people to raise alarm of the infiltration on the kibbutz, was taken captive.
Avital was seven months pregnant at the time of the attack; she gave birth to a third daughter, Shachar Mazal, in December 2023.
Chen is an avid tennis player who co-founded an arts center for young people in southern Israel, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an advocacy group representing the families of hostages.
Iair Horn, 46 HORN is an Israel-Argentinian who was taken captive along with his brother, Eitan Horn, who was staying with him at the time. Eitan Horn remains in captivity and his name is not on the list of hostages to be released during the ceasefire’s first phase.
Iair Horn managed the kibbutz pub and is a fan of the local soccer team in Beer Sheba, according to the hostages forum. Friends gathered at the kibbutz pub on Nir Oz to watch Horn’s release from captivity and to toast his return, according to Israeli media.
Alexander (Sasha) Troufanov, 29 Sasha Trufanov, an IsraeliRussian, was taken hostage along with three members of his family: grandmother Irena Tati, mother Yelena (Lena) and girlfriend Sapir Cohen. His father, Vitaly Trufanov, was
killed on October 7, 2023. The rest of his family was freed during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.
Sasha Troufanov works as an engineer for Amazon, according to the hostages forum. His family immigrated to Israel from the Soviet Union 25 years ago. He was believed to be held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another militant group in Gaza, which has released multiple videos of him in captivity, including one just hours before his release.
Eli Sharabi, 52
ELI SHARABI was taken captive by the militants from Kibbutz Beeri, a communal farm that was one of the hardest hit in the Hamas attack. His Britishborn wife, Lianne, and their teenage daughters, Noiya and Yahel, were killed by militants while hiding in their safe room. His brother, Yossi Sharabi, who lived next door, was killed in captivity. Hamas militants are holding his body, according to the Hostages Forum.
Eli Sharabi’s home bore marks from the attack months later. AP journalists saw bullet holes in the walls and the shattered oven and TV screens. Nearby homes were torched by militants and their roofs blasted off during fighting on October 7.
Ohad Ben Ami, 56
OHAD BEN AMI, a father to three, was taken captive with his wife, Raz, from Kibbutz Beeri, where he was an accountant. Raz Ben Ami was released during the weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.
The hostages forum described Ohad Ben Ami as a “passionate nature enthusiast” and the “cornerstone of his family.”
Or Levy, 34
OR Levy was pulled out by the militants from a bomb shelter near the Nova music festival in southern Israel. His wife, Einav Levy, was killed during the attack. Their son Almog, now 3, has been in the care of relatives since the assault.
Levy was taken captive alongside American-Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin as well as two other hostages—Eliya Cohen and Alon Ohel. GoldbergPolin, whose parents staged a high-profile campaign for his release, was killed in Hamas captivity.
Or Levy is from the city of Rishon Lezion, where he worked as a computer programmer for a startup.
Yarden Bibas, 35
THE release of Yarden Bibas
dimmed hopes that his wife and children were still alive in Gaza.
Hamas has claimed that the three were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Israel has not confirmed that, but a military spokesperson said last month that the government was “extremely concerned” about their welfare.
Yarden Bibas was taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7. Photos from the abduction show him wounded, bleeding from the head.
Keith Siegel, 65
KEITH SIEGEL , from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, was abducted with his wife, Aviva Siegel, from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, a communal farming village heavily damaged by the attack. She was freed during the November 2023 ceasefire deal, and has campaigned across the world for the release of her husband and other hostages.
Aviva Siegel said that she was held hostage with her husband during her 51 days in captivity. She said she took comfort from having her husband by her side as they were moved from tunnel to tunnel, the two given almost no food or water. Her parting words to him were, “Be strong for me.”
Ofer Kalderon, 54
OFER KALDERON, a FrenchIsraeli hostage, was taken captive from Kibbutz Nir Oz. His teenage children, Sahar and Erez, were also abducted, but they were freed during the weeklong ceasefire in 2023.
Arbel Yehoud, 29 ARBEL YEHOUD was taken hostage with her boyfriend, Ariel Cunio, from Kibbutz Nir Oz. A third-generation resident of the kibbutz, she loves science and space, and her friends held a public star gazing to mark her birthday in captivity.
Her brother, Dolev Yehoud, was killed on October 7.
Agam Berger, 20 In videos of Agam Berger’s abduction, her face is covered in blood, though it’ unclear if it is from her own wound or those of other soldiers.
Berger is a violin player from a suburb of Tel Aviv who enlisted in the army just two months before the attack.
Gadi Moses, 80
GADI MOSES was one of the oldest hostages who remained in captivity in Gaza. He was taken from his home on Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the communities hardesthit in the Hamas-led attack. The hostages forum described
Moses as an expert agronomist who lectured on agriculture and helped maintain the kibbutz’s community vegetable garden. Moses’ partner, Efrat, was killed during the attack.
Watchara Sriaoun, 33 IN the October 7 attack, militants overran the compound where agricultural workers lived on Kibbutz Nir Oz. Out of the 16 Thai workers living there, 11 were killed and five, including Watchara Sriaoun, were abducted. They were among at least 31 Thai workers taken in the assault. In the November 2023 ceasefire, 23 were released in a deal negotiated between Thailand and Hamas, with assistance from Qatar and Iran.
Sathian Suwannakham, 35 SATHIAN SUWANNAKHAM was also taken from Nir Oz.
The kibbutz has continued to advocate for the release of the Thai workers by posting regularly about them on social media, in addition to the Israeli hostages.
Surasak Rumnao, 32 SURASAK RUMNAO was abducted from the town of Yesha, located near the southern Gaza Strip.
His mother, Khammee Lamnao, said the Thai Embassy in Israel called her to let her know her son would be released.
Pongsak Thaenna, 36 Pongsak Thaenna was also taken from the town of Yesha.
Thais make up the largest group of foreigners held in Gaza.
In the early days after the October 7 attack, then-Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in phone conversations to assist the Thai hostages.
Bannawat Saethao, 27
BANNAWAT SAETHAO was also abducted from the town of Yesha.
Liri Albag, 19
LIRI ALBAG, who was among those abducted from the Nahal Oz military base, was featured in a video Hamas released in early January, filmed under duress. Her family said the video was “difficult to watch” because of Albag’s clear emotional distress. They were particularly active in the protest movement pushing for a deal with Hamas to bring the hostages home.
“Liri, if you’re hearing us, tell the others that all the families are moving heaven and earth and want their children
home, and we will fight until all hostages are returned,” her father said in a statement after the video was released.
Karina Ariev, 20 KARINA ARIEV was also taken from Nahal Oz. Just before she was abducted, she she sent a message to her family, saying: “If I don’t live, take care of mom and dad all their lives. Don’t give up, live,” according to Israeli media. Her family said she loves to cook, sing, dance and write poetry.
Daniella Gilboa, 20 ALSO taken from Nahal Oz, Daniella Gilboa was originally named Danielle. Her parents changed it after she was taken captive, in line with a Jewish tradition that is believed to bring God’s protection. Gilboa, from Petah Tikva, a suburb of Tel Aviv, played piano and studied music in high school. She dreams of being a singer, according to Israeli media.
Naama Levy, 20 T HE footage from Naama Levy’s abduction, in which she is wearing gray sweatpants covered in blood, was shown around the world.
Levy, among those taken from Nahal Oz, is a triathlete. When she was younger, she participated in the “Hands of Peace” delegation, which brings together Americans, Israelis and Palestinians to work on coexistence.
Romi Gonen, 24 ROMI GONEN was taken from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. She spoke to her family for nearly five hours as militants marauded through the festival grounds. She told them that roads clogged with abandoned cars made escape impossible and that she would seek shelter in some bushes. Her father, Eitan Goren, said she survived in part by learning Arabic, as it was the only way to communicate with her captors. “I just enjoy being with her even in silence, touching, hugging, watching her,” he said, a week after her release. “I missed it so much.”
Emily Damari, 28
EMILY DAMARI is a BritishIsraeli citizen abducted from her apartment on Kibbutz Kfar Aza. She lived in a small apartment in a neighborhood for young adults, the closest part of the kibbutz to Gaza. Militants broke through the border fence of the kibbutz and ransacked the neighborhood.
The day after her release, Emily’s mother, Mandy, said her daughter was “in high spirits and on the road to recovery.”
Doron Steinbrecher, 31
DORON STEINBRECHER is a veterinary nurse who loves animals, and a neighbor to Damari in Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Steinbrecher holds both Israeli and Romanian citizenship. Steinbrecher was featured in a video released by Hamas in January 2024, along with two female Israeli soldiers. Her brother said the video gave them hope that she was alive but sparked concern because she looked tired, weak and gaunt.
The
THIS combination of images provided by Hostages Family Forum shows Iair Horn, Alexander (Sasha) Troufanov and Sagui Dekel Chen, who all were abducted and brought to Gaza on October 7, 2023. HOSTAGES
Associated Press writer Haruka Nega in Bangkok, Thailand, contributed to this report.
EDCOM II Report: Deep cracks in PHL education demand urgent action
DR. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), paints a sobering picture of the state of Philippine education in his recent BusinessMirror article. He highlights a “learning crisis” that threatens the nation’s progress in an increasingly knowledge-based global economy. The EDCOM Year Two Report, aptly titled “Fixing the Foundations: A Matter of National Survival,” underscores the urgent need to address systemic issues that have plagued the education system for decades. (Read the BusinessMirror article, “The education that our children deserve,” February 18, 2025).
The cracks in the foundation, as Senator Loren Legarda poignantly asks, are deep and multifaceted. Dr. Yee points to critical areas: widespread nutritional deficiencies among young children, low participation in early childhood education, and alarming rates of functional illiteracy among graduates. These issues are not new; they are the echoes of problems identified by the first EDCOM in the 1990s, exacerbated by population growth, fluctuating resources, and a lack of focused prioritization. The consequences of this neglect are dire. Undernourished children struggle to reach their full cognitive potential, students fall behind curriculum expectations early on, and a significant number of college students drop out, disillusioned and unprepared. The article reveals disturbing statistics: a quarter of Filipino children lack adequate nutrition, nearly a third of graduates are functionally illiterate, and many teachers are assigned subjects outside their expertise.
However, amidst these challenges, Dr. Yee offers a glimmer of hope. He acknowledges the efforts of EDCOM legislators in pushing for reforms, such as amending the Early Years Act and advocating for increased investments in early childhood education and nutrition. He also commends the Department of Education for initiating crucial reforms, including reviewing staffing standards, addressing the shortage of school principals, and streamlining the procurement of learning resources.
But Dr. Yee tempers optimism with realism. He cautions against expecting immediate miracles, emphasizing that the journey is from “bad to good,” not “good to great.” He stresses the importance of strategic prioritization, celebrating small victories, and committing to long-term reforms. The key takeaway from the past 30 years, he argues, is that “none of us could put down the ball.”
This is not solely the responsibility of the government. Universities, civil society organizations, parishes, teachers, parents, and students all have a crucial role to play. As the nation formulates the National Education and Workforce Development Plan, the focus must be on investing in the foundational years of education. Preventing stunting, improving access to early childhood education, and ensuring literacy and numeracy by Grade 3 are paramount.
Dr. Yee’s article is a wake-up call. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to recognize the gravity of the learning crisis and to commit to building a strong foundation for the future of Filipino children. We encourage our readers to respond to Dr. Yee’s plea by exploring the EDCOM Year Two Report more thoroughly and engaging in the shared mission to ensure that our children receive the quality education they deserve. The future of the Philippines hinges upon this endeavor.
BusinessMirror
The critical role of a Wholesale Electricity
Spot
AMarket in the energy sector
EAGLE WATCH
WHOLESALE Electricity Spot Market (WESM) plays a vital role in ensuring an efficient, competitive, and sustainable energy sector, particularly in developing economies. By allowing electricity trading based on real-time supply and demand, a WESM promotes transparent pricing, efficient resource allocation, and investment in renewable energy. The Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) is responsible for managing the Philippine WESM, ensuring that market operations function smoothly to support economic growth and energy security.
Markets thrive on efficiency, and the WESM introduces competition among power producers, preventing monopolistic pricing and reducing inefficiencies in electricity generation. Prices are set by market dynamics rather than by fixed contracts, encouraging costeffective power production. Since its launch in 2006, the WESM in the Philippines has increased competition among power generators, leading to more efficient dispatch schedules and cost savings. Similar results have been seen in India, where the Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) has allowed distribution companies to procure cheaper power during off-peak periods. Likewise, electricity spot markets in Chile and Colombia have improved grid reliability and reduced energy shortages. For consumers,
the WESM provides the potential for lower electricity costs, while for power producers, it incentivizes innovation and operational discipline in electricity generation.
Beyond market pricing, maintaining a stable power supply is crucial for national energy security. WESMs ensure grid stability by efficiently allocating reserves, acting as a buffer during sudden power plant outages or unexpected demand surges. In the Philippines, IEMOP also oversees the reserve market to ensure that sufficient backup capacity is available. The experience of Latin America further highlights how market-based reserve mechanisms in countries such as Colombia and Chile have minimized supply disruptions and reduced energy shortages. By effectively coordinating the procurement of reserves, WESMs
A Wholesale Electricity Spot Market is a transformative tool for developing economies, enabling greater efficiency, competition, and investment in clean energy. Evidence from the Philippines, India, Chile, and other nations demonstrates that WESMs improve price transparency, grid reliability, and energy sustainability.
enhance overall system resilience, a critical factor for developing economies with unstable grids.
As global priorities shift more towards clean energy, WESMs also play a crucial role in integrating renewable energy sources into the market. Renewable generators such as solar and wind participate in real-time electricity trading, ensuring their effective deployment. India has successfully facilitated the integration of 20 GW of solar and wind capacity through its IEX, enabling real-time trading of excess renewable power. Mexico’s competitive electricity auctions through its WESM led to record-low tariffs for solar and wind energy, increasing renewable energy capacity by 32 percent from 2015 to 2018.
In the Philippines, IEMOP supports renewable energy adoption through mechanisms such as the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) and the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), ensuring greater participation of renewables in the energy mix. Through price signals, WESMs
guide renewable energy investments, optimizing the deployment of clean energy sources without compromising grid stability.
While WESMs bring significant benefits, challenges remain, particularly in developing economies. High electricity prices persist due to external factors such as volatile fuel prices and internal inefficiencies such as grid backlogs, transmission constraints and market barriers. Overcoming these challenges requires collaborative efforts among market operators, regulators, and policymakers. Institutional barriers, infrastructure gaps, and the intermittent nature of renewable energy must be addressed through sound regulatory frameworks and investment in grid modernization. Despite these hurdles, the economic and environmental benefits of WESMs far outweigh the difficulties. By fostering market transparency, enhancing competition, and facilitating investment in clean energy, WESMs contribute significantly to economic growth and energy security. The role of WESMs in shaping the energy sector extends beyond market transactions. Their success depends on effective governance, institutional support, and collaboration among key stakeholders. Governments must ensure robust regulatory frameworks to foster competition and protect consumer interests. Private sector players must invest in infrastructure to support a stable and efficient market. Policymakers must encourage
Fake PWD IDs vs fake promos of restaurants
By Atty. Romulo B. Macalintal
RECENTLY, Restaurant Owners of the Philippines (Resto PH) raised their concerns on alleged rise of fake persons with disability cards used by unauthorized persons to avail themselves of the 20 percent discount granted to PWDs upon purchase of certain goods and services as provided under Republic Act (RA) 9442, or the Magna Carta for PWDs.
According to them, the abuse of the mandated 20 percent discount for PWDs resulted in their major financial losses which affected the quality of food and services for “honest customers.”
While these are valid concerns of restaurant owners, there is also that valid concerns raised by PWDs and Senior Citizens (SCs) about the proliferation of fake promos conducted by certain restaurant owners and even hotels in order to avoid giving the PWDs and/or SCs their 20 percent discount and 12 percent VAT exemption for the purchase of goods and services in their establishments.
Article 116 of RA 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, requires any establishment to secure a permit from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) before conducting any sales promotion campaign, commonly known as “promo”. However, a great number of restaurants and hotel establishments conduct promo without any permit from the DTI or any concerned department of the government and use it as basis to deny PWDs and/or SCs their aforesaid discounts, claiming that its “promo price” is already discounted. This practice is highly illegal because, if the alleged promo is with -
Article 116 of RA 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, requires any establishment to secure a permit from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) before conducting any sales promotion campaign, commonly known as “promo.”
out a permit from the DTI , then the alleged promo price should be treated as a regular price to which the PWDs and/or SCs should still be entitled to the 20 percent discount and 12 percent VAT exemption. Otherwise, any establishment may claim that its price is already discounted and could be the basis to deny PWD and SC of their lawful discounts. Thus, a lot of PWDs and/or SCs have been denied of their said discounts because of these fake “promos” conducted by several establishments. If the restaurant owners are asking our government to implement
stricter regulations against the use of fake PWD cards, then it is also necessary to strictly enforce Article 116 of RA 7384 against establishments conducting promos without approval from the DTI. In a word, the DTI should remind these establishments that if their promos are not authorized by the concerned department of the government, then their alleged “promo price” should be treated as a regular price to which the PWDs and/or SCs should still be entitled to their lawful 20 percent discount and 12 percent VAT exemption. Lastly, the alleged financial loses of these restaurant owners could be assuaged by the fact that under Section 8(d) of RA 10754
Dr. Fernando T. Aldaba
Three takeaways for Andi
Eigenmann
ANDI EIGENMANN’S Instagram posts, which discussed relationship struggles involving her partner Philmar Alipayo and their friend Pernilla Sjoo, became trending stories.
“I am fully aware that my husband never cheated on me with this girl… I am always around when they are together,” says Andi about her partner Philmar and their mutual friend Pernilla.
Andi is an actress and social media influencer with 4.5 million followers on IG. She gave up her showbiz career in 2017 to live in Siargao, the country’s surfing paradise, where she eventually met Philmar, a professional surfing coach.
Early this month, Andi’s IG stories made showbiz headlines. She alluded to struggles about their relationship and mentioned “betrayal” and “hurt” inflicted by their mutual friend who Andi claimed “inserted herself in the situation by encouraging him to go for a spontaneous love couple tattoo together,” after Andi and Philmar had a fight.
Here is the crux of the matter. Shielding Philmar by saying that he “never cheated” and putting the blame solely on Pernilla is myopic. Here are three lessons Andi can learn from this experience: Be on guard against micro-cheating. Your partner does not need to have a carnal relationship with another person when it comes to microcheating. Psychology Today describes it as “small breaches of trust in a relationship that don’t pass the threshold into a physical affair.”
In fact, micro-cheating is harder to handle because of its “deniability” and is seemingly harmless. Seeking comfort with a friend (typically from the opposite sex) about your relationship problems entails sharing intimate details that otherwise should remain confidential. That in itself is a betrayal of trust and may be an opening for something deeper than just “friendship”.
There will always be “Pernillas” in this world, but they are not the problem. They are the partners who “cannot resist their advances.” When Andi claimed that Pernilla encouraged Philmar “to go for a spontaneous love couple tattoo together”, why didn’t Philmar say no? Philmar did not set boundaries, and the issue with Pernilla was only secondary.
The 224 (today, tomorrow, forever) tattoo that both Philmar and Pernilla had shortly after the fight with Andi, which was so publicly known to the world, shows Philmar’s lack of empathy. That alone is an insult to Andi, who decided to bark up the
Eagle Watch.
. . continued from A18
regional energy integration, as seen in Asean’s efforts to develop crossborder electricity trade. In the Philippines, IEMOP’s responsibilities in operating the WESM underscore its role in fostering a resilient and sustainable energy sector. While it is not the sole determinant of market outcomes, its role in facilitating efficient electricity trading, ensuring grid stability, and supporting renewable energy adoption is crucial to meeting the country’s long-term energy goals.
A Wholesale Electricity Spot Market is a transformative tool for developing economies, enabling greater efficiency, competition, and
Things behind, as they are…
HAndi gives her partner so much latitude that it risks potential abuse, whether it comes from love or a forgiving nature. Setting boundaries is an act of protection, not a limitation on the relationship.
wrong tree.
Mental health professionals can be consulted online. Seeking professional health by way of appointments with psychologists or psychiatrists has long been stigmatized, but it is slowly being normalized.
These days, you don’t have to leave your house and go to a clinic. You can have therapy sessions with them via Viber or Messenger in the privacy of your home.
When Andi resorted to Chat GPT about her relationship problems, reactions were varied. Some thought it was another way to utilize the artificial intelligence chatbot, while others were aghast.
Mental health is complex and better left to professionals. They can help you understand your emotions, thoughts, and reactions to issues. They can also provide insights into the behavior of your partner and help you navigate your current situation. There is simply no substitute for the pros who are experts in human behavior.
Be careful of what you allow. This is a fundamental adage that people should follow to maintain relationships and friendships. Whatever you tolerate will persist, so it is important to establish boundaries early.
If you think actions or words spoken at home or the workplace are offensive, hurtful, or unfair, make it known to the person early on. This is most important in relationships where sometimes words spoken in jest are trivialized and excessive attentiveness towards a female friend is justified as “compassion.”
This also applies to business. If you have policies that you bend to appease or please customers, those “accommodations” are bound to be exploited. An additional problem occurs when other clients find out about those exceptions. Andi gives her partner so much latitude that it risks potential abuse, whether it comes from love or a forgiving nature. Setting boundaries is an act of protection, not a limitation on the relationship.
investment in clean energy. Evidence from the Philippines, India, Chile, and other nations demonstrates that WESMs improve price transparency, grid reliability, and energy sustainability. However, market effectiveness depends on strong institutions, sound regulations, and infrastructure investment. As the Philippines and other developing economies continue their energy transition, WESMs—managed by operators like IEMOP—will remain central to achieving energy security, affordability, and sustainability in the years to come.
Dr. Fernando T. Aldaba is Professor of Economics and
Tito Genova Valiente ANNOTATIONS
OW does one create a pause? And when is that gap a silence? Or a transition to another scene?
The questions do sound dumb, even facetious, but it is one of the many questions I now realize that can lead to understanding when a space becomes worthy of writing about, of remembering what makes a sentence a struggle to remember, a scene committing itself into a memory.
Here I am assessing the scenario of an indigene from a film, the morning has broken into a bright day, and the young girl wakes up. She looks around and stops. Something in us is saying, she has lost someone beside her—her own child, or mother, or father. We find words in her tiny movements. Then, by the work of editing, she is now standing on a cliff, looking far into the horizon, the tall grasses covering her. She turns around and the wind that is blowing her hair away from her face is now shrouding her head. She is not doing anything to keep from being drowned by the shock of long tresses as—it seems—she allows the wild wind to take its own course. There is no stillness here and this allows me to wait for things to happen.
The wind is not happening. I want the human action to happen, to tell the story for that day. It is as if the day has not completed itself yet. But then the young indigene stretches her hand and the camera moves away from her. We catch an old man beside her and she is telling the man, her father, her wish to move away very far. But she is not moving, but a throbbing begins in us, the gap between her words and the silence between those words and the absence of response from the other character have all initiated a tale.
The pause has created this time not a pause but a proposition.
The story will go on but I will always go back to this scene on the hill, on this flow of stillness and
the disruptions in between. If I ask the writer, or the cinematographer, or the director how they did those shots, they will certainly be startled. Within them, they will be amazed at how the query will make them overthink.
I was in that overthinking overdrive mood the other morning when my sister sent me a photo of my bed. She has dressed up the simple bed, I thought to myself. Then, simply, I asked her what she did with it? She said she was cleaning up the place,
creating a kind of order in what I would always leave behind, as they were, when I woke up each morning.
To call the surrounding spaces a chaos is a bit too dramatic but the arrangement she has done with the bed, the duvet and even the blue blanket, now folded across the lower side of it, has formed a new scene. It is as if I had left the scene and the world has displayed a newness.
I am not there, I tell myself. My soul has left that corner of the room.
Gazing down, the bed frames a new way of minding a long pause. And then I recall what happened that day: we were all looking at the two tall trees in front of our home as we waited for the car that would bring me to the bus station.
“The tree has fruits.” “Yes,” I responded. “Also that other tree…,” her voice trailed. It was as if we were looking at the trees for the first time. That time, there were no ellipses in our conversation; this time, in my mind, I sensed the pauses, the gaps, the stillness. I can even paint in my heart long trails of silences, hold them up, those non-words and non-senses, as if they are objects for inspection, and introspection.
Was it Rumi who said, listen to silence, for it has so much to say? If not silence, then loss. When we lose something, the mind as it recalls or, better, remembers, will tell us many more things.
Hunched on a writing table, it has been my habit to turn around to look for a book when I am trying hard to visualize an idea, or a concept. Where is The Gods of the Upper Air…? Not that, I am talking to myself. I may not turn around but my mind has circled fully and realized the loss. The great flood. The books… they are all gone, washed away by the dark, dirty water. I should bear that in mind. I look up and see above me, up on the stairs the few books that were saved. I feel guilty: those books are not enough to cover up the many that have vanished. Fully. Here is the pause that is not helpful. Here is the disappearance that only Winnie the Pooh can assure— “keep them in your heart for they will be there forever.” But how does one keep the books in one’s heart? Aha, this is true pain. True pause. True loss.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
Maria Orosa: The WWII food heroine who invented banana ketchup
MKuwentong Peyups
ARIA OROSA is not just a street in Manila but should be remembered as the name of a World War II heroine associated with a famous Filipino food invention: Banana ketchup.
In the website “Lady Science”, Orosa was described as “a passionate nationalist who saw the food system as a vector of colonial control and worked tirelessly to help reduce the reliance on foreign imports. She nourished a nation through chemistry and culinary ingenuity, developing food products and preservation methods that highlighted the island’s abundant resources and paved a path towards self-sustainability.”
After a year at the University of the Philippines (UP), Orosa transferred to the US where she studied pharmaceutical chemistry and food chemistry.
She returned to the Philippines in 1922 and joined the Bureau of Sciences where she used her scientific skillset to address the problems of malnutrition and food insecurity.
She experimented with preservation techniques like canning, dehydrating, fermenting, and freezing local produce and protein-sources, to maximize the utilization and conservation of domestic foods.
As a replacement for imported tomato ketchup, Orosa’s recipe for banana ketchup mixed saba banan-
as with traditional tomato ketchup ingredients like vinegar, sugar and spices. Red food coloring was added because the brown sauce wasn’t appealing.
When World War II broke out, Orosa refused to evacuate with the rest of her family, opting instead to help feed those caught in the crossfire.
To supplement the meager wartime rations, Orosa redirected her division’s resources into the creation of nutrient-dense food products. These include food she developed—Soyalac (a nutrient rich drink from soybeans) and Darak (rice cookies packed with vitamin B-1, which prevents beriberi disease).
She also served as a Captain in the Marking Guerrillas where she waged war in her laboratory rather than fighting on the front lines.
At her own expense, she prepared rations for the resistance movement and developed new packaging to suit their needs. She also organized a system for smuggling food into the prison camps to feed Filipino and American prisoners of war.
On February 13, 1945, during the
Orosa’s tombstone reads, “Here lie the victims of the tragedy of Remedios Hospital, Malate, killed during the Liberation of Manila on February 13, 1945.”
Battle of Manila, she was struck by shrapnel while working in her laboratory. She was rushed to the Malate Remedios Hospital, which was hit by a second shelling that killed an estimated 400 doctors and civilians, including Orosa.
A patriot until the end, Orosa died serving her country. Also known as the Rape of Manila (February 3 to March 3, 1945), the city became one of the most devastated Allied capital cities during the entire war, alongside Berlin and Warsaw as Japanese resistance and American artillery destroyed much of Manila’s architectural and cultural heritage dating back to the city’s founding.
Subjected to incessant pounding and facing certain death or capture, the beleaguered Japanese troops took out their anger and frustration on the civilians caught in the crossfire, committing multiple acts of severe brutality.
The Japanese forced Filipino women and children to be used as human shields into the front lines to protect Japanese positions. Those who survived were then murdered by the Japanese.
The bodies of people, even babies—beheaded, mutilated, bayoneted and shot—littered the streets, schools, public buildings, even places of worship. Orosa was one of the scientists
who died during the Japanese Occupation cited in a paper “Extinguishing a Spark: The Impact of WW2 on Phil. Scientific Efforts” presented by Diana Marie Aguila and Lorenzo Thomas Lazaro during the International Conference on the 80th Anniversary of World War II at Lyceum of the Philippines University-Manila from February 18 to 19, 2025. The other scientists include Dr. Lamberto Leiva (parasitologist), Dr. Salvador del Mundo (chemist), while the following died after being bayonetted by the Japanese: Dr. Candido Africa (parasitologist), Quirico Abadilla (geologist and mining engineer), Jose B. Juliano (botanist), and Dr. Miguel Manresa (animal husbandry). The Flowers for Lolas alliance also discussed the issue of comfort women who were abducted, trafficked or brought to the Japanese military camps, held in captivity, and were raped as part of one of the largest operations of sexual violence in modern history. The speakers are Tess Ang See, Naoko Okimoto and Jose Mathew Luga. Orosa and her fellow World War II heroes were given a final resting place on February 13, 2025 at San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila. Orosa’s tombstone reads, “Here lie the victims of the tragedy of Remedios Hospital, Malate, killed during the Liberation of Manila on February 13, 1945.”
Peyups is the moniker of University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R.
Dennis Gorecho
Friday, February 21, 2025
Senate caucus on calling impeachment court urged
By Butch Fernandez and Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
UNDETERRED
by Senate
President Francis Escudero’s firm position that the Senate cannot convene as an impeachment court before June 2, the chamber’s minority leader said he will “talk to him personally” and write a second letter, this time suggesting a caucus where, he said, the senators can finally discuss the issues related to Vice President Sara Z. Duterte’s impeachment trial.
Fielding questions at the Kapihan sa Senado on Thursday, Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said he hoped the caucus would allow Escudero to explain at length his arguments, and allow those similarly minded as Pimentel to explain theirs.
“I will request a caucus so that he [Senate President Escudero] can explain his position to the senators and so that he can also give me time to explain my position. What is my position? The content of my first letter and the content of my second letter which will show the constitutional provisions and the rules of impeachment, and our conclusion that the Senate as a legislative body does not need to be in session to
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
AFTER initially fending off resignation rumors last week, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar B. Chavez finally announced that he will be leaving his Cabinet position this month after having “fallen short of what was expected,” of himself.
Chavez is the latest member of the Cabinet to leave the Marcos administration this month after former Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr. and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime J. Bautista.
In a statement to Palace reporters on Thursday morning, Chavez said he submitted his irrevocable resignation as early as February 5, 2025.
“To use a broadcast parlance, I will be signing off as Acting Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office on February 28, 2025, or anytime earlier when my replacement is appointed,” he said.
“It is to this fidelity to the truth—the bedrock belief to which I have anchored myself as a former broadcast journalist—that I must tell the unvarnished truth about my resignation,” he added.
This after he said he will “try to work at full capacity” while physically on leave from 17 to 21 February 2025, when asked if he already resigned as head of PCO as early as last Thursday.
act,” Pimentel said.
“It’s the Senate’s obligation,” Pimentel stressed, to serve as the impeachment court for officers like the vice president and the chief justice, as what it did in 2012 in the case of Chief Justice Renato Corona, who was tried for five months and convicted by a vote of 20-3.
As Pimentel suggested a caucus, former Senate chief Vicente Sotto III, who is seeking a comeback, revealed that at least five incumbent senators are ready to buckle down to work if the court were convened soon.
Pimentel agreed with Escudero on the approximate timeline for conducting the pretrial procedures, which he said are part of the impeachment court’s work, but said this is why the senator-judges must already convene, so the weeks-long chores for the pretrial can already be attended to.
He also agreed with the projection of Escudero—supported by former Senator Ping Lacson last Wednesday—that the trial can straddle both the outgoing 19th Congress and the 20th Congress, which would include the 12 senators who are not graduating this
Chavez, who was also a former undersecretary for railways of DOTr under former Secretary Jaime Bautista from July 2022 to December 2023, thanked Marcos for giving him the opportunity to work in PCO.
He said during his two years and seven months stint in the Marcos administration, he always gave his best performance.
“To use a broadcast parlance, I will be signing off as Acting Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office on February 28, 2025, or anytime earlier when my replacement is appointed.
“However, I will not be signing out as a believer in this administration, whose vision I will continue to support as I pursue endeavors outside of government but still within the realm of public service,” he said.
Malacañang has yet to officially announce Chavez’s replacement, but it was widely reported that it would be veteran broadcast journalist Jay Ruiz, formerly of ABS-CBN.
“For those who are asking: as of 8pm last night, ES Luke informed me that no one has yet been appointed to replace me,” Chavez told Palace reporters in a Viber message.
“But I am hoping it will be done [transition] this week so [the new secretary] will be introduced on Monday, February 24,” he added partly in Filipino. Chavez, a former broadcast journalist, was appointed to the PCO post in September 2024,
June 30 and the new ones elected on May 12.
But again, Pimentel stressed, a lot of time can be used before June 2 to attend to the pretrial duties while the actual hearings that put parties on the witness stand are done when the chamber is complete again. These include asking the vice president to reply and securing judicial affidavits—a process that the Supreme Court mandated for court proceedings after the 2012 Corona trial.
5 senators ‘ready’ IN Dumaguete City, former Senate President Sotto III said several senators are prepared to convene the impeachment court, with at least four to five lawmakers expressing willingness to begin proceedings.
Asked how many senators he had spoken to who expressed willingness to proceed with the impeachment trial, Sotto replied.
“I’d say easily about four or five of them. I won’t name them, but according to at least two of them, the others feel the same way,” Sotto said in a news conference of the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial
FEWER BUILDINGS RISE IN DEC AS CONSTRUCTION COOLS–PSA
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
CONSTRUCTION took a step back in December 2024, with fewer approved building permits pointing to a slowdown in activity, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed.
The latest statistics showed that approved building permits for the month reached a total 10,809, marking a 10.8-percent drop from the 12,116 recorded in December 2023. In contrast, construction picked up in November, registering a 9.3-percent annual growth.
Housing projects took the biggest hit, with residential construction down 15.7 percent year-on-year to 6,728 projects, accounting for 62.2 percent of the total. The majority were single-detached homes (6,138 projects or 91.2 percent), followed by apartments (494), duplexes (89), other residential (5) and condominiums (2).
“Other residential construction consists of school or company staff houses, living quarters for drivers and maids, and guardhouses,” the PSA said.
Non-residential buildings remained steady at 2,589 projects, making up 24 percent of total constructions for the month. Commercial structures led this segment with 1,743 projects (67.3 percent), followed by institutional (461), industrial (222), other non-residential (86) and agricultural buildings (77).
“Other non-building constructions include cemetery structures, street furniture, waiting sheds, communication towers, etc,” the agency added.
Additions made up 3.6 percent, while
TBy Joel R. San Juan
HE Supreme Court (SC) has directed the House of Representatives, the Senate and the Palace to submit before it the original copy of the 2025 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) and the original copy of the 2025 General Appropriations Enrolled Bill. The Court issued the order last February 18 through Clerk of Court Marife Lomibao-Cueva. The order stemmed from the petition filed by former Executive Secretary Victor Rodriguez and Davao City 3rd District Rep. Isidro Ungab questioning the constitutionality of the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Last Tuesday, the SC through its spokesman, lawyer Camille Sue Mae Ting, announced that the Court issued a resolution ordering the conduct of an oral argument on Rodriguez and Ungab’s petition.
The oral argument was set on April 1, 2025 at the SC En Banc Session Hall in Baguio City. The High Tribunal also set the case for a preliminary conference on February 28, 2025 at the SC En Banc Session Hall in Manila.
The copy of the 2025 General Appropriations Bill and the original copy of the 2025 General Appropriations Enrolled Bill was ordered by the Court to be submitted not later than February 24 at 12 noon.
“The Court reserves the right to require the parties to submit other documents after the conduct of the Preliminary Conference,” the SC said. Named as respondents in the petition were Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Senate of the Philippines represented by Senate President Francis Escudero and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
For the oral arguments, the Court said the preliminary issues that have to discussed by the parties include : (1) Whether petitioners have legal standing to sue; (2) Whether the issues raised in the petition involve an actual and justiciable controversy; (3) Whether petitioners’ direct resort to the Supreme Court is proper; (3) Whether the issue of constitutionality is the lis mota of the case. The substantive issues that the parties have to discuss include: (1) Whether Republic Act No. 12116 or the 2025 GAA violates Section 15, Article II of the Constitution in relation to Sections 10 to 11 and 37 of Republic Act No. 11223, or the Universal Health Care Act (UHCA); (2) Whether the 2025 GAA, which increased the budget of the Senate and the House of Representatives, violates Section 25(1), Article VI of the Constitution which proscribes the increase of appropriation recommended by the President through the National Expenditure Program (NEP); (3) Whether the 2025 GAA violates Section 5(5), Article XIV of the
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Exec: Aramco investment to hasten growth of Unioil
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
SAUDI Arabia’s Aramco is acquiring a 25-percent stake in Unioil Petroleum Philippines, Inc., a move that is seen to boost the market share and increase earnings of the Coled oil firm.
On Thursday, Unioil announced it has entered into definitive agreements with Aramco regarding a strategic investment. The amount, representing the 25-percent stake, was not made public.
It only said that with this agreement, Unioil is poised to further enhance its capabilities and continue its legacy of providing high-quality fuel products to the Filipino market.
“The collaboration with Aramco marks a new chapter in Unioil’s journey, one that promises innovation,
growth, and a strengthened commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction,” according to a company statement.
Through the partnership with Aramco, Unioil said it will also introduce the Aramco and Valvoline brands to Filipino consumers.
“We are delighted with this new partnership with Aramco, which represents a major milestone in Unioil’s 58 years history. We are confident that this will equip ourselves in accelerating our growth and development,
further innovate, and strengthen our position as a leader in the wholesale and retail fuels market,” said Unioil
CEO Janice Co Roxas-Chua.
Unioil is a Filipino company founded in 1966 by the Co family. It started its business in lubricants manufacturing and distribution.
Upon the deregulation of the petroleum industry in 1998, Unioil ventured in fuels trading, distribution and retailing. Unioil now holds a significant portion of the fuels business in the country through its facilities in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Unioil has 165 service stations as of this month.
“The strategic investment by Aramco is fully in line with our ambition to be the fuel retailer of choice and support our customers with top tier fuel solutions,” said Unioil
President Kenneth C. Pundanera.
For Aramco’s part, the downstream expansion and growth of its global retail network aims to secure additional outlets for its refined products.
“This investment represents another step forward in our global strategy to expand Aramco’s retail network, and we look forward to introducing Aramco’s high-quality products and services to customers in the Philippines.
Our international expansion aims to capture additional value and enhance our participation in vibrant economies, in collaboration with established partners. We are delighted to embark on the next stage of this journey with Unioil, a dynamic player in the fast-growing Philippines fuels market,” said Aramco Executive Vice President of Products and Customers Yasser Mufti.
The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Upon completion, Aramco intends to extend its brand, competitive retail offerings and Valvoline-branded lubricants to select retail stations in the Philippines.
Aramco’s previous retail acquisitions include those in Chile and Pakistan.
‘Calax interchange is 40% done’
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
THE construction of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (Calax) Governor’s Drive Interchange is progressing steadily, with completion now nearing 40 percent, a ranking official said on Thursday.
MPCALA Holdings Inc. OIC Elnora D. Rumawak said the 8.64-kilometer segment, which will link the Silang (Aguinaldo) Interchange to Governor’s Drive in General Trias, Cavite, remains on track for its
Manila Water facilities tap clean energy
THREE facilities of Manila Water Co. Inc. are now powered by solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftop systems, with a combined capacity of 2.5 megawatt peak (MWp).
In partnership with Ditrolic Energy, Manola Water inaugurated its solar power plants at the Cardona Water Treatment Plant (WTP), East La Mesa WTP, and San Juan Compound. The solar facilities can generate an estimated 3.6 million kilowatt hour per year.
“In the last couple of years, we tried to make this a reality. We like to quadruple [our use of renewable energy] and grow it as much as possible,” Manila Water President and CEO Jocot de Dios said. This initiative is a remarkable move toward integrating renewable energy (RE) into the water company’s operations. Through a long-term power contract and the use of a sustainable energy source, the initiative aims to lower and stabilize power costs while supporting the company’s objectives of increasing energy efficiency and lowering its carbon impact.
“I’m glad that this time solar energy is being used to have a sustainable and efficient supply of water. It is really good for MWSS and Manila Water because it will redound to the benefit of the consumers,” Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) Chairman Elpidio Vega said. Lenie Lectura
By VG Cabuag @villygc
CONGLOMERATE San Miguel Corp. (SMC) and its subsidiaries Petron Corp. and Ginebra San Miguel Inc. have been recognized in Time Magazine and Statista’s 2025 ranking of the top 500 companies shaping business in the Asia-Pacific region.
scheduled opening in the second half of 2025.
“We are committed to completing the entire stretch of Calax by 2025. Its full opening will not only ease traffic and improve connectivity but also support economic growth by enhancing access to key areas in Cavite and Laguna,” she said. Meanwhile, other sections of Calax are also advancing, with Subsection 1 (Kawit Interchange) now over 31 percent complete and Subsection 2 (Open Canal Interchange) reaching 21.9 percent completion. Once fully completed, Calax will
Ayala
span 45 kilometers from Mamplasan Rotunda in Laguna to Kawit, Cavite, integrating with major expressways to create a seamless connection between Cavite, Laguna, and Metro Manila.
The expressway will feature a total of eight interchanges: Laguna Technopark, Laguna Boulevard, Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Road, Silang East, Silang (Aguinaldo), Governor’s Drive, Open Canal, and Kawit Interchange.
Calax will eventually connect to the Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex) in Kawit, creating a more efficient route for motorists trav-
eling between Cavite, Laguna, and Metro Manila.
Once the entire expressway is operational, it is expected to accommodate up to 95,000 vehicles daily, cutting travel times and further boosting economic activity in the region.
MPCALA is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), whose domestic tollway network also includes the Cavitex, North Luzon Expressway (Nlex), the NLEX Connector, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (Sctex), and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (Cclex) in Cebu.
Land board gives nod to ₧20.9-B share swap with Areit
THE board of property developer Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) has approved a property for share swap with its real estate investment trust (REIT) Areit Inc. worth P20.99 billion.
The company’s board, along with its units Accendo Commercial Corp., Cagayan de Oro Gateway Corp. and Central Bloc Hotel Ventures Inc., has approved to subscribe to 505.89 million primary common shares of Areit in exchange for eight commercial properties.
“The proposed property-for-share swap is for approval of the Areit shareholders at their annual meeting on April 24, 2025 and pertinent regulatory bodies,” the company said. The company said it is raising up to P75 billion in debt to partially finance general corporate requirements and refinance maturing debt.
The company said it will issue of retail bonds or corporate notes for listing on the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corporation, or execution of bilateral term loans. Augusto D. Bengzon, the company’s CFO, said the company’s fundraising will be done in peso, and of the total amount, P25 billion is earmarked for refinancing of its maturing loans.
“So we have maturities of P25 billion. The balance of the P50 billion… we think we’ll be borrowing much
less than that. Most likely, we’ll go to the market for P30 billion, of which half, similar to how we do it before, half will go to bank financing and the other half, we will tap the capital markets,” Bengzon said.
San Miguel was ranked 85th, making it the second highest-ranked Philippine company, while Petron placed 216th and Ginebra at 345th. Their inclusion was based on employee satisfaction, financial performance and sustainability transparency, which are key indicators of long-term business viability and ethical leadership.
San Miguel Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang welcomed the recognition even as he reiterated the company’s commitment to excellence in business and social responsibility that extend to its subsidiaries.
“This recognition sets the stage for an even stronger 2025. It continues to prove that Filipino companies can compete on the global stage and make meaningful impact beyond business,” Ang said.
This is the latest in a string of global awards for San Miguel. In 2024, it was named among the World’s Best Companies by Time at number 463 and Forbes’ Best Employers at number 89, the highest-ranked Philippine firm in the latter’s top 100. The company said it continues to lead in nation-building through its diverse portfolio of businesses, with major initiatives in infrastructure, energy and the environment. Its Better Rivers PH project has removed over 8 million tons of waste from nine river systems in and around Luzon, while its infrastructure network including expressways and airports, strengthen connectivity and economic growth. The company also supports food security through partnerships with local farmers and operates Better World community centers that address hunger, education, and healthcare gaps.
“So I think P25 billion for refinancing, that’s going to happen. And then maybe another P30 billion to fund the new capex [capital expenditure].” The company would spend some P95 billion in capex this year.
Ayala Land has also approved the amendment of article seventh of its articles of incorporation to reduce the authorized capital stock to P20.43 billion from 21.43 billion. The company said it will retire 1 billion common shares held in treasury. VG Cabuag
SAN Miguel Corp. CEO Ramon S. Ang CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Banking&Finance
DepEd, DPWH get higher cash shares in Jan
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
AS the national government released higher cash allocations, state agencies also recorded a faster utilization pace in January 2025, according to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
Latest data from the DBM showed the government released P300.669 billion in January 2025. This is higher by 2.42-percent from the P293.560 billion disbursed during the same month in 2024.
NCAs are cash authorities issued by the DBM to central, regional and provincial offices and operating units to cover the cash requirements of the government agencies.
In turn, agencies and state-run corporations utilized 78 percent or P233.799 billion of the NCAs released in January 2025. The utilization pace is faster than the 70 percent rate recorded in January 2024.
A higher NCA utilization rate shows the capacity of agencies to disburse their allocated funds on time and implement their programs and projects.
Based on the data, line departments were allotted P202.986 billion in the January, lower by 5.45 percent year-on-year from P214.698 billion.
Of the amount, departments utilized P143.098 billion or 70 percent of the budget. The used amount is also down from last year’s P126.351-billion cash utilization.
Among the agencies, the Department of Education (DepEd) received the highest cash allocation worth P45.075 billion in January, followed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) with P37.734 billion and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) with P22.809 billion.
As such, DepEd has utilized 61 percent of its cash allocation while DPWH and DILG’s spending rates are at 32 percent and 72 percent, respectively.
Further, government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) received P4.385 billion in cash allocations in January. This is significantly higher, up by 4,624 percent, than the P92.465 million allotment in January 2024. GOCCs also fully utilized their NCAs this month, compared to last year’s zero utilization.
Maynilad’s Blue Bond Offering wins int’l awards
WEST Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. (Maynilad) has earned top international recognition for its maiden fixed-rate bond issuance, winning “Best Blue Bond in Southeast Asia” and “Most Innovative Deal of the Year 2024” at the recently concluded Alpha Southeast Asia Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Maynilad’s P15-billion “Blue Bond” issuance—the first SEC-registered blue bond in the Philippines—was listed on the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. in July 2024. The bond was launched to support the company’s capital expenditure on sustainable water and wastewater management projects. The offering earned top recognition in its category, besting similar blue bond issuances in Thailand and Vietnam. Despite a competitive fundraising environment, Maynilad’s “Blue Bond” secured 2.47-times oversubscription, reflecting strong investor confidence. This success enabled the company to achieve favorable pricing, solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable finance. “The recognition of our bond offering— Maynilad’s first public issuance to finance sustainable projects—affirms that we are on the right track in advancing water security, climate resilience, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” Maynilad Chief Finance Officer Ricardo F. De Los Reyes was quoted in a statement as saying. “Proceeds from this issuance will fund critical water and wastewater initiatives, including pipe-laying projects, pump stations, modular treatment plants, and sewerage system upgrades.”
Local government units (LGUs), meanwhile, were allocated P93.297 billion, up by 18.44 percent from the P78.770 billion allotted a year ago. LGUs employed 93 percent or P86.315 billion of the cash allocation while P6.982 billion remains in the balance.
The DBM has yet to report the full-year 2024 NCA utilization. As of end-November 2024, the government has released a total of P4.519 trillion. Of this, 94 percent or P4.260 trillion has benefited utilized by line departments, GOCCs and LGUs.
Editor: Dennis D. Estopace
Increased lending to key sectors lifts DBP’s 2024 earnings by 29%
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
STATE-run Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) reported it exceeded its net income target by 29 percent, as its earnings reached P7.1 billion in 2024, on the back of increased lending to key sectors.
In a statement issued last Thursday, the DBP said it reached its P5.5billion income target, posting P7.1 billion in earnings, the highest in the past 10 years.
DBP’s net income expanded by 20 percent from P5.9 billion in 2023, primarily driven by the 13 percent increment in its net core earnings, according to DBP President and CEO Michael O. de Jesus.
“DBP’s resurgent performance
Tin 2024 is a clear testament that it remains a strong and stable government financial institution that is greatly capable of funding the priority programs of the National Government,” de Jesus was quoted in the statement as saying.
DBP’s lending operations went up by 6 percent to P31.7 billion in 2024 from P29.8 billion in 2023. Meanwhile, its income from treasury operations inched up to 2
percent to P14.9 billion from P14.6 billion due to the rise in interest rates.
Further, DBP’s non-interest income also surpassed its target by 81 percent to P4.04 billion driven by higher earnings from bank fees, foreign exchange transactions and trading gains.
Loan disbursements also reached P536.8 billion in 2024, 5 percent higher than the P509.2 billion extended in 2023.
About 61 percent or P326.48 billion was allocated to the infrastructure and logistics sector with projects mostly found in the National Capital Region, Metro Davao, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas.
The bank also loaned P99.33 billion to projects for social infrastructure and community development, P55.12 billion to projects for the environment and P26.94 billion for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
As a result, DBP’s capital adequacy
ratio stood at 14.90 percent as of the end of 2024. This is higher than the 13.92 percent recorded during the same period a year ago.
The lender’s common equity tier 1 capital ratio also settled at 13.98 at year-end 2024, higher than the 13 percent recorded in 2023.
“DBP’s financial performance mirrors largely the optimism of the public on the prospects of the economy in the coming years even as we aggressively pursue programs that would advance the national economic agenda of the President,” de Jesus said.
DBP is the 10th-largest bank in the country in terms of assets and provides financing to strategic and critical sectors such as infrastructure and logistics, micro, small and medium enterprises, community services and the environment.
DBP has a branch network of 148 branches including 15 branch lite units located primarily in remote and underserved areas of the country.
use in global transactions tops 50%—Swift
HE dollar’s prowess in global trade climbed in January, accounting for just over half of all the international foreign-exchange traffic sent via the financial messaging service Swift. The portion of worldwide payments involving the greenback rose to 50.2% in January, up from 49.1 percent a month earlier, Swift, or the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, said in a release. That’s the highest figure since the Belgium-headquartered consortium revised how it collects the transaction data in mid-2023.
As the world’s primary reserve currency, the dollar continues to account for an overwhelming amount of traffic on Swift. Over the last roughly year-and-a-half, it has averaged around 48 percent of the world’s total. The next largest currency, the euro, constitutes some 23 percent on
average, followed by the British pound with 7.1 percent.
The foreign-exchange figures underscore the economic realities underpinning the dollar’s central role in international trade as a debate brews over finding ways to avoid using the US currency.
“If there’s going to be an alternative to the dollar, it can’t just be as good as the dollar,” Marc Chandler, chief market strategist at Bannockburn Global Forex and a veteran of the currency markets, said last week at an industry conference in Miami. “It has to be better.”
More akin to a vast communications network than a payments system, Swift is used by global banks to send messages to each other as they manage currency deals. Swift began assembling the data in 2010, but the figures since July 2023 reflect a technical adjustment to how it
tracks the figures based on recently revised trade reporting standards.
Of course, far from all transactions in the $7.5 trillion-per-day foreign-exchange market are sent via Swift, which in 2022 began excluding several major Russian banks from the service following the invasion of Ukraine. The data, however, does shed light on the vast flows of money that drive trade over time. Some 11.9 billion trade instructions were sent via Swift in 2023, according to its last annual review published in June 2024. That was up from 11.2 billion the year before.
A growing crowd of challengers has emerged in recent years seeking ways to trade without using the greenback or US financial institutions, in part driven by Russia’s desire to develop its economy in the face of sharp sanctions.
That debate has mainly centered
CIMB Bank Philippines Inc. is expecting to see an increase in monthly transactions through CIMB Pay, its newly-launched digital payments service, as it expands its reach in the Philippine market.
CIMB Bank CEO Vijay Manoharan said that while P300 million in monthly transactions can easily be achieved, the lender is aiming for up to P500 million every month.
“That should be where we intend to get ourselves to. Of course now [CIMB Pay is] still new, but it is a realistic [target],” Manoharan said.
In 2024, the Malaysian digital-only bank recorded P800 billion in total transactions. The lender allows customers to pay at over one million QR PH-ready merchants across the Philippines, transfer funds and pay bills in the mobile application.
After gaining nine million customers in just six years, CIMB is now aiming to cross the 10-million mark this year, with at least a million customers using the CIMB Pay daily, Manoharan said.
“We are a foreign bank, but we serve just the everyday local people,” Manoharan noted, adding that 70 percent of its customer base is below 25 years old.
Further, CIMB expects to double its income, although Manoharan did not disclose how much the bank earned in 2024.
“The growth trajectory will still [be] quite strong. As the business matures, we would be able to grow at an aggressive pace,” he added.
CIMB is banking on its new products to be launched and new segments it is entering to boost its earnings.
“We can do a lot more [by] using data and using analytics. We’ll start to offer the right products to the right customers,” Manoharan said.
Last year, CIMB achieved a profit-before-tax growth that is 45 times higher than what it recorded in 2023. Since 2018, the lender disbursed P100 billion in loans. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Metrobank ’24 income rose on robust assets
By VG Cabuag @villygc
METROPOLITAN Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) announced last Thursday that its net income rose by 14 percent yearon-year to a record P48.1 billion
around the BRICS bloc, a group of emerging-market nations including Russia and China as well as Brazil, India, and South Africa. The yuan now ranks fourth in share of total payments traffic on Swift and accounts for nearly 3.8 percent, the group said Thursday — about double compared to a decade ago. South Africa’s rand tallied some 0.3 percent of the total last month. The currencies of Brazil and India were not included among the top 20, according to the Swift report.
US President Donald Trump has sharpened his focus on the greenback’s role in international markets, reiterating threats of 100 percent levies on the BRICS group should they move to their own currency. While tariffs have become a centerpiece of the new administration’s policies, so far few major actions have yet to take effect. Bloomberg News
EAST West Banking Corp. (PSE: EW), the banking unit of the Gotianun Group, reported last Thursday of having posted its highest-ever net income of P7.6 billion, a 25-percent increase from the previous year’s
centric
we provide,” Fernandez said. EastWest’s net interest income climbed 19 percent to P33.5 billion, fueled by 16 percent growth in its consumer lending portfolio, which now comprises 82 percent of total loans, the highest among peer banks. Deposits expanded 8 percent to P385.4 billion, maintaining a CASA ratio of 81 percent, among the highest in the industry.
This solid funding base enabled EastWest to achieve an industry-leading net interest margin of 7.8 percent.
“Our strategic direction is clear—we are committed to scaling our consumer banking business, deepening customer relationships, and accelerating digital transformation,” EastWest CEO Jerry G. Ngo said.
“With a strong foundation, robust capital position, and market-leading margins, we are well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities. We will continue investing in technology, expanding our customer base, and strengthening our product offerings to sustain our momentum in the years ahead. The future is bright, and we are ready to go further,” Ngo said. VG Cabuag
I’VE read in my goto book, “Our Daily Bread,” about three names you can have in your lifetime: the name your parents gave you; the name others give you (reputation); and, the name you give yourself (character). I thought this will relate to associations, too.
The phrase “What’s in a name?” is used to convey the idea that the significance of a person, organization or thing goes beyond their name, and that one should look beyond labels and titles to understand their true qualities, merits, or essence.
Associations, whether professional societies, trade groups, or community collectives, thrive on the reputation, character, and identity encapsulated in their names. They are the first impression, the initial point of contact for an association. A well-chosen name can be a compelling introduction, conveying a sense of purpose, values, and identity. Associations understand, too, that their significance goes far deeper than the words that make up their names such as:
1. Identity and purpose. An association’s name reflects its core identity and purpose. It serves as a beacon, guiding those who share its values and objectives. For potential members, the name can be a point of resonance, drawing them toward the association.
2. Trust and credibility. A strong, reputable name is a valuable asset. Associations build trust and credibility through their name’s recognition. A respected name can open doors, promote partnerships, and facilitate collaboration with other organizations.
3. Community and belonging. Members often take pride in being part of an association with a name that represents their field, industry, or interests. The name becomes a badge of honor, fostering a sense of identity and shared purpose.
4. Advocacy and influence. Policymakers, stakeholders, and the public often take associations seriously based on their name alone. It’s a symbol of collective power and the ability to drive change.
While the name is undoubtedly important, the true essence and worth of an association extend far beyond the words that represent it. Here’s how associations transcend their names:
1. Shared values and objectives. Associations are united by shared values, objectives, and a common mission. These guiding principles provide the foundation for their work, influencing their impact and significance.
2. Community of experts. Associations are communities of experts and enthusiasts who contribute their skills, knowledge, and passion to advance their chosen field. The expertise and dedication of the members are what truly drive the association’s success.
3. Collective action. Associations are powerful forces of collective action. Their strength lies in the unity and commitment of their members to pursue shared goals and advocate for their interests.
4. Innovation and progress. Associations are at the forefront of innovation and progress in their respective fields. They drive change, encourage best practices, and push for advancements that benefit their members and society as a whole.
So, the question “what’s in a name?” serves as a reminder that while a name is important, it is only the surface of a much deeper entity. Associations are defined by their shared values, collective action, and the dedication of their members. Recognizing and embracing this essence is the key to the continued success and impact of associations.
Octavio Peralta
A ssociation World
Henry Ford Awards Best Motoring Section 2007,2008,2009,2010
2011 Hall of Fame
www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Tet Andolong
Motoring BusinessMirror
LAST year, BYD in the Philippines proved its plug-in hybrid technology, a.k.a. DMi, in the Sealion 6, travelling over a thousand kilometers in a single full tank of gas. So, in partnership with ACMobility, the two companies again organized a drive event, this time to test another model with the same technology, the Seal 5 Seal 5 DM-i (plug-in hybrid) sedan.
ACMobility and BYD Cars Philippines have been transparent about their commitment to making electric vehicles more accessible to all Filipinos. To align this commitment to the drive event, the two companies made a strategic move to feature the entry variant Dynamic.
Priced only at P948,000, it is the most affordable plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicle in the country. The three-day drive event tackled the long-distance drive to Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan Loop, and SUBIC. The total drive distance was less than 900 kilometers of freeways, provincial highways and twisties. Ten fresh Dynamic variants were commissioned.
Enroute to Pangasinan
NOW more accustomed to the DM-i technology, our car group opted to do real-world driving and settings to see how the dynamics would affect fuel efficiency. Initially switched to EV and Standard drive modes, with about 70 percent battery charge, we took the Skyway route to Balintawak. Everything was as smooth as it should have been, with zero engine noise and vibration. The next part led us to the entire stretch of the freeway up to the Tarlac exit. Behind the wheel, everything feels premium and techy despite lacking a sunroof and other top-spec amenities.
LEXUS has another exquisite lineup in store for the discriminating, with restructured prices to whet the appetite of luxury segment patrons. Let’s listen to Joaquin Guevara, a versatile front man of Lexus VP Jade SisonMendoza. Here: “Lexus continues to set the standard for refined luxury, craftsmanship, and innovation. This season, discerning guests are invited to explore a range of Lexus vehicles that embody cuttingedge design, exceptional comfort, and exhilarating performance. With exclusive ownership privileges available for a
The material utilized is not from what is supposed to be an entry variant. Unlike the practice, BYD did not have to cut corners to lower the price. Like the leather-wrapped sporty and bucketlike seats, it may not be electronically controlled, but at least well-padded with bolsters. Steering with controls is tiltadjusted to provide the perfect spot to see all the needed information, mainly the available drive range, evident via the standard 8.8-inch LCD digital gauge cluster.
Of course, there is a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen with an intuitive interface and seamless navigation, and Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support it. The touchscreen infotainment can access all other controls, including vehicle information, particularly energy data. BYD did a great job utilizing a single User Interface for all its models, resulting in seamless operation and transition from one model to another. The higher center console and gear knob are clustered with controls and switches, operated even with a slight tap. Like the Sealion 6, there is the EV/HEV switch-onthe-fly switch. The two-levelled center console is another plus factor, providing enough space for smartphones. By the way, cupholders are everywhere.
Electric power with range- extender
LIKE the Sealion 6 DM-i, the Seal 5 DM-i has a single electric motor for propulsion and a 1.5-liter gasoline engine as a generator. The Dynamic variant generates 176 hp and 316 N-m of torque with a quicker zero to 100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds. Trust us when we say that those numbers are accurate. Every push to the throttle is relentless and effortless.
Since the Dynamic variant is fitted with a smaller 8.3 kWh BYD Blade battery pack, the EV mode range is up to 50 km, but it still has up to 1,175
kilometers in HEV mode. The HEV mode automatically engages every time the battery charge drops to 26 percent. We would subsequently toggle between EV and HEV modes as the battery charge level increases.
On the freeway, the dynamics were exactly as an EV does—instantaneous torque registration when pushed and smooth when held back. Only during wide-open throttle will the engine rev high to match the required electric current; otherwise, it remains in the lowend rpm range. Picking up to high-speed limits was smooth and effortless. Well, we knew that power delivery was the least to worry about.
The electric motor’s unrelenting power made the busy provincial road easier to deal with by effortlessly surpassing slow vehicles every time. While catching up with lost time from the Metro morning traffic, we made it to the destination restaurant in Alaminos,
Pangasinan, feeling relaxed. Then, we resumed the drive along the provincial highways, doing the same things, surpassing effortlessly and safely while tightly retaining the convoy. BYD’s DM-i technology was simply impressive, performance-wise. All we had to do was to wait for a clear path to overtake. Next thing we knew, our day one drive was over, reaching the destination resort in Zambales.
The twisties of Bataan MEANWHILE , the next morning’s photoshoot highlighted the Seal 5’s prominent styling features. Sharplooking fascia, pronounced lower grille, fastback-like rear end, and aerodynamic profiles complement the look. Measuring 4,780 mm long, 1,837 mm wide, and 1,495 mm tall, with a 2,718-mm wheelbase, this compact sedan is relatively bigger than that of its Japanese-made counterparts. While the
16-inch alloy wheels could have been bigger, at least it was wrapped with 225/60 R16 tires.
On to the exciting part of the next drive episode: it was time to tackle the notorious twisties of Bataan. The loop we took from Botolan, Zambales to Bagac, Bataan was over 210 kilometers in the distance. It’s a good thing the perks of being a rear passenger paid off. The rear seats were also padded and comfy. With available rear air-con vents, the entire cabin was arctic cold the whole time.
Other features, like rear USB chargers and touch-operated reading lights, were noteworthy. Momentarily, we reached the Subic Golf Club for lunch.
Again, as the designated driver, we finally reached the non-stop tight curves in Mariveles. Here, we adjusted the regeneration and brake assist level to Sport for greater intensity. This made tackling corners easier while almost doing a one-pedal operation. We felt
limited time, now is the perfect moment to experience Lexus like never before.
“From urban agility to flagship luxury, Lexus offers a selection of models designed to cater to every lifestyle. Whether it’s a compact crossover, a dynamic SUV, or an executive sedan, each Lexus delivers a unique blend of craftsmanship and innovation. Explore exclusive down payment packages on the following units.”
“The Lexus UX [P2,938,000.00] delivers an unmistakable blend of urban agility and contemporary luxury. With a bold design, premium interior, and intuitive technology, this compact crossover is designed for those who seek seamless refinement in every journey.”
“For those who seek agility without compromise, the Lexus LBX [P2,558,000.00] redefines compact luxury. Stylish and versatile, it seamlessly integrates advanced technology with Lexus’ signature craftsmanship, making it
ideal for urban driving.”
“The Lexus LS 500 Premier [P10,508,000.00] is the pinnacle of flagship luxury. With its twin-turbo V6 engine, exquisitely crafted cabin, and cutting-edge driver-focused technology, the LS delivers an experience of unparalleled refinement and prestige.”
“For those drawn to exhilarating performance, the Lexus NX 350 F Sport [P4,878,000.00] offers a turbocharged engine, precision handling, and an unmistakable F Sport aesthetic. This luxury crossover is engineered to deliver both power and sophistication in every drive.”
“Discover how Lexus continues to redefine the driving experience through innovation, performance, and exceptional craftsmanship.”
“To learn more, visit the Lexus website at lexus.com.ph or visit our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram @lexusphilippines.”
“To arrange a test drive, visit the Lexus test drive page at https://www. lexus.com.ph/en/contact-us/book-atest-drive.html”
“You may also download the MyLEXUS App available on both Android and iOS users to receive live updates and access other premium services.”
So there. What are you waiting for?
Changan crazy offering
ARIANNE COLENE JALALON writes to say that this year, Changan Philippines is making it easier than ever to #GetThatChanganFeeling with exclusive cash discounts and an unbeatable value.
“As one of the largest and most established automotive brands in China,” Arianne says, “Changan brings over 160 years of industrial expertise—65 of which are dedicated to automotive innovation. With a commitment to delivering top-quality
vehicles, world-class safety features, and cutting-edge technology through its key R&D centers in China, Italy, Japan, UK, and the USA, Changan is more than just a car brand—it’s a promise of quality, safety, and reliability.
“Here are seven compelling reasons why the Changan X7 and CS55 Plus are the perfect SUVs to elevate driving experience in 2025:
n Seating Capacity with Generous Legroom
n Commanding Road Presence n Premium Interior and Advanced Tech for Convenient and Enjoyable Riding Experience
n Powerful
how strongly the electric motor’s regenerative braking contributed to the vehicle’s control while earning back lost battery charge levels. Despite the highseries tires, the steering was still good. Of course, since there was substantial torque, ascents seemed levelled with the Seal 5. All we had to worry about was when to brake and turn, thanks to the vehicle’s agility. We reached our destination resort just before sundown. As a reward, the gorgeous sunset became an astounding backdrop for the photoshoot.
Going back to Manila THE third and final day was a long route, returning to SUBIC and Manila via SCTEX and NLEX. The levelled drive was smooth, toggling between EV and HEV modes whenever the battery charge level allowed. Only when we reached NLEX did we have to make a spirited driving approach to get ahead of other vehicles along the way while maintaining a tight convoy. The car was heavier with more cargo, and it still drove like the first day. Acceleration was still swift and effortless, and the ride was planted, quiet, with fewer bumps.
The effect of our spirited driving and real-world approach mostly left us consuming more fuel compared to the rest of the convoy, with significantly less theoretical range left. Nevertheless, considering the 47-liter tank capacity, the car was still impressively fuelefficient for driving the three-day 810plus kilometer drive.
Most affordable PHEV PRICED at only P948,000, the Seal 5 DM-i is currently the cheapest PHEV model in the Philippines. That is less than half the price of HEV compact sedans in today’s market with ADAS and other premium features. Again, HEV and not PHEV. Think about that.
Story & photo by Randy S. Peregrino
THE cabin’s highlight is the 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment
Staycationing with fur babies
WHEN my niece M. made the lifechanging decision to finally come home after 11 years working in a fivestar hotel abroad, she brought with her Kukai, her pet yorkie, for whom she had to book an extra seat.
And even then, the airline instructed her to keep Kukai in her own carrier, on the floor of the plane.
On a few occasions, when no flight attendants were looking, M. brought out Kukai and hid the latter under her blanket so the baby girl could rest on her chest.
Even before M. booked the ticket for her flight, she was already warned by a few friends and the vet that she would probably have to shell out P50,000 to the Bureau of Customs personnel assigned at the NAIA, or whatever the staff there felt they should collect from an arriving passenger with a pet in hand. (M. was told the Customs staff would start at a very high price, so she would have to haggle until they reach a lower—yet still exorbitant—price. Government is often a scourge, and not a help, to we the people and our pets. Pffft.)
But let me correct that. Kukai isn’t just a pet. She’s a member of the family. She had her own plane ticket and her own passport, with all clearances in her paw that showed she was allowed to fly to Manila with her Mommy and make a new home.
Brought up on a constant diet of CNN, Kukai watched the TV all day while her Mommy was away at work. Then she’d scamper off to her water and food bowls when she’d be thirsty or hungry, then snooze
in her bed when the news probably became too depressing. I’m pretty sure Kukai barked loudly at the Donald—a comment on his orange complexion and combed-over hairstyle. For the most part, we’ve been able to bring Kukai anywhere—to malls, restaurants (as long as we sit outside), and parks. When she is out of the house, her tushie and other nether parts are wrapped in a diaper. Even at home, she poos and and pees on a pad; she won’t “go” anywhere except there. A very clean baby girl.
In a survey published in January 2023 by the Worldpanel Division of Kantar Philippines, they said 94 percent of Filipino households owned a pet. Of that number, 68 percent owned dogs, while 42 percent owned cats. (Some households, of course, own both, as well as fish, birds, even chickens, pigs and goats.)
So I’m glad that Holiday Inn & Suites Manila
Galleria now welcomes our furry family members to stay with them—just one of a handful of hotels to do so.
Hotel general manager Patria Puyat said they began rolling out the red carpet for our four-legged family members on Valentine’s Day this year by launching their Pet-Friendly Staycation Campaign.
“We recognize the growing demand for pet-friendly travel, so at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria we’re making select Suites available for guests checking in with their beloved dogs and cats,” she said.
“To ensure a delightful stay with us, pets will be welcomed with a special in-room amenity kit, available upon request, including a cozy pet bed, food and water bowls, and delicious treats,” she added.
Guests can also ask hotel staff to walk their furry companions, while an in-room dining pet menu is available with an additional charge.
Puyat inherently knows the needs of fur parents and their fur babies. She, too, is a loving parent to Yoshi, a golden retriever, who loves cuddling with her on the bed. “At Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, we believe that pets are part of the family, and they deserve to be treated with gentle kindness. With this project, we are excited to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for pet owners and their furry friends,” she stressed.
She told me that the hotel will also be constructing a small pet enclosure near the hotel pool so paw
See “Staycationing,” B5
WORLD VISION SETS 2025 PROJECTS IN MOTION TO EMPOWER COMMUNITIES
AS the new year brings a fresh start, families and communities are inspired to take meaningful steps toward a better future.
World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization, is carrying this sense of renewal into its 2025 initiatives, deepening its commitment to empower children and communities through impactful partnerships that foster resilience, education, and sustainable livelihoods.
With a renewed focus on more strategic partnerships, the organization believes that “hope thrives where collaboration flourishes,” says Dr. Herbert Q. Carpio, World Vision’s national director. “This year, we aim to strengthen existing partnerships and cultivate new ones, all united by the shared mission of supporting vulnerable children and families. Our efforts center on fostering lasting change by addressing immediate needs while building sustainable solutions for the future.”
A key initiative for 2025 is a partnership with Pilmico Foods Corp., which aims to provide Egg Machine Livelihood start-up kits to 79 families from Zamboanga Del Norte and Misamis Occidental. This program offers agribusiness tools, technical
training, and animal health products to help build resilient and sustainable livelihoods.
In addition, Sun Life Foundation continues its role as World Vision’s disaster relief partner, contributing a P500,000 reserve fund. This strengthens World Vision’s capacity to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, providing critical assistance when disaster strikes.
By supporting World Vision, individuals can make a difference in every child’s life. For as little as P30 a day or P900 a month, child sponsors provide essential needs like education, clean water, and healthcare, creating lasting change and spreading hope beyond 2025.
Rooted in the unshakable belief that every child, family, and community deserve a hopeful future, World Vision strives for a world where resilience overcomes struggle, beginning with meaningful projects throughout the year, leading to a change that resonates for generations to come. More information can be found at https://www.worldvision. org.ph.
Toned Down BY
By Eugenia Last
h
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You’ll gain clarity regarding situations that left you broadsided if you attend a reunion or encounter someone who went through similar circumstances. Communication is the path to understanding and moving forward. Test your imagination and creative strengths, and discover a pastime that brings you peace and joy. HHH i
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A friendly demeanor will help ward off anyone trying to pick a fight or take advantage of you. Keep active. Make this a fix-it day, and pay attention to details that can make your life enjoyable, easier and more affordable. It’s up to you to invest in yourself and build opportunities. HHH
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You’ll have many unique ideas. Apply your skills to manifest what you want and attract support.
Death of South Korean actor at 24 sparks discussion about social media and internet culture
SEOUL, South Korea — South Korean actor Kim
Sae-ron’s death this week has triggered an outpouring of grief and calls for changes to the way the country’s celebrities are treated in the public arena and on social media, which critics say can foster a culture of harassment.
The 24-year-old, who began her career as a child actor and earned acclaim for her roles in several domestic films, including the 2010 crime noir The ManfromNowhere, was found dead by a friend at her home in the country’s capital, Seoul, on Sunday. Her death was assumed to be a suicide. National Police Agency has said it does not suspect foul play and that Kim left no note.
Once among the brightest stars on South Korea’s vibrant movie and television scene, Kim struggled to find work after a 2022 drunk driving incident, for which she was later fined in court.
Online posts in South Korea are notoriously harsh toward celebrities who make missteps, especially women, and Kim faced constant negative coverage from news organizations that capitalized on public sentiment.
Newspapers and websites criticized her whenever she was seen partying with friends, or when she complained about her lack of work and nasty comments on social media. She was even criticized for smiling while filming an independent movie last year.
Following Kim’s death, several of the country’s major newspapers on Tuesday published editorials and opinion pieces lambasting the toxic online comments about the actor. Some invoked the 2019 suicide deaths of K-Pop singers Seol-li and Goo Hara and the 2023 death of Parasiteactor Lee Sunkyun while calling for a change in the “harsh, zerotolerance” culture toward celebrities.
The HankookIlbonewspaper said the country’s media outlets were part of the problem, lamenting that some outlets continued to exploit Kim for clicks even after her death, using provocative headlines that highlighted her past struggles.
The watchdog Citizens’ Coalition for Democratic Media on Tuesday criticized news organizations for blaming social media without considering their own “sensational and provocative reporting.”
Born in 2000, Kim began her acting career at age 9, with the 2009 film ABrandNewLife, portraying a girl’s struggles to adjust to a new life after being left at an orphanage by her father. She rose to stardom with TheManfromNowhere, which was one of the biggest hits in the South Korean movie scene that year and won her a domestic acting award.
She starred in various movies and TV shows before the 2022 drunk driving incident. Gold Medalist, Kim’s former management agency, did not immediately answer calls for comment. A P
Staycationing…
Puyat
Politics of displacement; poetry of innocence
“SIR, why did you remove the scenes of shooting… the violence?” Did that have to do with the budget?”
It was a young girl’s voice from the audience and “Sir” was Arden Rod Condez, the writer of the award-winning film Tumandok. It could have been a technical question—of editing—but the crowd was amazed at the millions (P2 million basically) spent on a deceptively simple film.
The film was the choice cinema for the celebration of National Arts Month in Malolos, Bulacan. There was a reason for selecting Tumandok: it was a film about the Ati or Aeta and Bulacan has a share of the socio-political problems with the ethnolinguistic communities. They are called “Ita” and “Remontado” in Bulacan, the latter term also used in many parts of Southern Luzon.
An entry in the 2024 Cinemalaya, Tumandok would go on to win five awards, including Best Film for Southern Lantern and Best Screenplay for Condez and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay.
The synopsis from Cinemalaya states the premise of the film, which mentions how the myth known by others by the contentious title “Barter of Panay” has seeped into the culture and identity of the Ati.
The synopsis from the film festival talks of how “the mountains were left to the Atis, while the plains and rivers went to the Malays.” The story continues: “Today, even the mountains are under threat, sometimes violently taken from the Atis.”
The myth has assumed the form, tragically, of a self-fulfilling prophecy, with the nomadism of the Ati
misunderstood as a product of history rather than a function of culture.
From the same audience, there was also the curious inquiry: “Were the actors really real Atis?” This question received a boost from the observation of Bulacan Vice-Governor Alex Castro, himself no stranger to the world of cinema who noted how the actors seemed “not to be acting at all.”
There would be more compelling questions and one of these would be proffered by the present Chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Victorino Manalo, who underscored the environmental degradation as the backdrop of the story. In particular, he stressed how the Ati community were inhabiting a place that was predominantly covered by cogon grasses, where the big trees were already gone. And yet, the irony of their culture dictates how they, as one Ati woman expressed her anxiety, would die if they were to go down and live in the lowland.
Welcome to the discourse of reading cinema, where films become a universe of realities and not merely flashing images on the screen. In this approach, films have ceased to be entertainment pieces but questions of perspectives. Whose gaze is employed in the narrative? For whom is this cinema being made? Films are not just reflection of societies but are also the refraction of the milieu. Films do not alter histories but they can insert themselves in histories and where they lead can be the source of societal changes. From these standpoints, Condez confessed how he resolved to help the two directors of Tumandok, Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Kat Sumagaysay, because they were not interested in simply crafting a film; they want to help the very subject matter of their filmmaking - the Atis of Sitio Karabangkalan, in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.
While the film is about a community being forcefully uprooted from their ancestral lands, the act of documenting their plight does not end with the aesthetics of completing the cinema but helping the community regain the territories they lost. The dream of the Ati becomes the dream of the filmmakers – the
ATTY. FELIPE L. GOZON, GMA PERSONALITIES HONORED WITH TOP JOURNALISM AWARDS
GMA Network Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, along with three of the network’s esteemed journalists — Jessica Soho, Raffy Tima, and Melo del Prado — were recognized for their excellence, innovative contributions, and impact on journalism at the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) Grand Journalism Awards on February 12. Gozon, one of Asia’s top broadcast CEOs, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. A distinguished corporate lawyer, Gozon was lauded for his transformative leadership, steering GMA to its position as the country’s leading broadcast network. Gozon’s passion for excellence is underscored by his commitment to responsible and impartial journalism, further solidifying GMA Network’s position as the most trusted broadcast news organization in the country.
affording guests an extensive array of 36 spacious suites, thus offering a unique proposition for families, business travelers, and leisure guests. And for Kukai, who looks forward to a staycation with her M., this gets a thumbs, uhm... a paw up. For inquiries and bookings and inquiries, email higm.reservations@ihg.com or call +63287909400. n
“This recognition is very important and meaningful to me because, one, this is only the second time in 80 years of its existence that the MOPC is giving these awards. Number two, the MOPC as the first and oldest press club in the Philippines enjoys an importance and reputation second to none among the press clubs in the country. And last, the 12 awarded tonight, four of whom are from GMA Network, are the best among the best, myself excluded, in the field of journalism in the Philippines today,” says Atty. Gozon in his speech.
Soho, in turn, was recognized as Journalist of the Year. With an exemplary career spanning decades, Soho is best known for her journalistic integrity and compelling
story-telling. As the country’s most-awarded broadcast journalist, Soho holds the distinction of winning the highly prestigious George Foster Peabody Award in 1999 and 2014, and as the first Filipino to be nominated and to have won in the New York Festivals (NYF) TV & Film Awards. Currently, she hosts the No. 1 TV program of 2024— Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho. Tima received the TV Reporter of the Year award. A seasoned journalist, Tima is one of the first to use drone and mobile journalism in the country, and has helped revolutionize how stories are captured and told, particularly in conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas. Tima was a one-man team on the ground covering the Palestine side from Egypt at the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in 2023. He co-anchors the longest-running noontime newscast on Philippine free TV, Balitanghali. Del Prado, on the other hand, was awarded as Radio Broadcaster of the Year. With over 30 years of experience, del Prado is a well-respected radio journalist. He anchors the news and commentary morning program “Melo del Prado sa Super Radyo” and co-anchors the primetime nationwide newscast “Super Balita sa Umaga, Nationwide” on Super Radyo DZBB 594 kHz and aired over Dobol B TV sa GTV. The MOPC Grand Journalism Awards recognize excellence, achievements, and dedication to the journalism profession. It is given by the MOPC, which was formed in 1945 and is the oldest press club in Asia.
directors and the writers – and that is for these people to finally realize the ownership of these lands. And Condez, the writer, was there to be the witness to their persistence when he quoted a line that went into the one of the most breathtaking dialogues of Tumandok:
“Tell us where the end of the earth is, and we will go there to live in peace, untouched.”
Condez is known for the award-winning fulllength film JohnDenverTrendingand the short film Dandansoy
May Arlene Torres of the Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Bulacan coordinated the entire event.
Some two days before the gathering in Bulacan, the northern leg of the National Arts Month as commemorated by the National Committee on Cinema was happening in Alaminos, Bulacan. The NCCA through its National Committee on Cinema (NCC) introduced the same theme: “How to Read Cinema” (Paano Magbasa ng Pelikula). This is the second year that the NCC is using this approach, which disabuses the common approach to filmviewing which is actor-centric.
In Alaminos, under the auspices of its local government and coordinated by Raquel Rarang Rivera, the film LoveChildwas at the heart of the gathering. Directed by Jonathan Jurilla, the film treats autism as seen in the person of Kali.
The film follows the journey of Ayla and Paulo as they take care of their son. Jurilla was drawing from his own experience as the father of a boy with autism, a filmic decision that renders the film with an intensely poignant feeling and reality.
In her own note, Jurilla spoke of how “heartwarming” it was to “experience seeing our film, LoveChild, appreciated by a huge crowd of students and teachers, and to engage with the young audience in Alaminos City, Pangasinan.” Jurilla says: “This is a core memory I will always cherish.”
LoveChildis an impressive directorial debut of Jonathan Jurilla, who is an associate professor at the University of the Philippines-Visayas. The screenplay of LoveChildwon for Jurilla the Palanca in the fulllength screenplay category in 2023. n
KIM SAE-RON
Doncic with Lakers: Is he fat or what?
LOS ANGELES—Luka Doncic
couldn’t find his shot in his third game with the Los Angeles Lakers, and LeBron James couldn’t make up for it.
Yet the Lakers all say they aren’t worried after their embarrassing 100-97 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night.
Doncic scored 14 points on 5-of-18 shooting, including a 1-for-9 performance on 3-point attempts.
The Slovenian superstar added 11 rebounds and eight assists, but also committed six turnovers and five personal fouls while playing 33 minutes in his longest performance since joining the Lakers in a blockbuster trade with Dallas
“Obviously, it’s going to take a little time,” Doncic said. “Today, a lot of rustiness from my part. Started the game with like four or five turnovers. That can’t happen. Just got to play basketball the right way.”
The evening was clearly frustrating to Doncic, who was playing only his third National Basketball Association (NBA) game following a six-and-a-half-week absence due to a calf strain incurred on Christmas.
On a couple of occasions when this normally electrifying scorer managed to make a shot against the Hornets, Doncic reacted with a visible mix of relief and frustration.
Doncic is 16 for 45 from the field in his three games with the Lakers, but just 5 for 24 on 3-point attempts—including 2 for 16 in his two home
games, where fans have buzzed with anticipation of each shot and then groaned at each clank.
Back-to-back losses to cellar-dwelling Utah and Charlotte are grim results for a team that had won 10 of 11, but the 40-year-old James also isn’t concerned about Doncic’s start in purple and gold.
“It’s his third game since Christmas, and it’s his third game with us,” James said. “He still doesn’t know all the plays. He doesn’t know all the defensive coverages, all the signals and things that we’ve built up since September. Obviously, we’re trying to fast-track it on the fly. He’s coming back from his injury. He’s getting back into form, so we’re working through it together.”
Not everything was grim about Doncic’s performance against Charlotte, his first in which he didn’t have a minutes restriction since his injury return. He led Los Angeles in rebounds, and his plus-13 rating was the Lakers’ best number despite his turnovers.
“He’s got to be comfortable being himself, because he’s one of the best players in the world,” said Austin Reaves, whose third-quarter ejection was swiftly followed by the Hornets’ 22-1 run. “We need him to be him, and it’s just going to take a couple of games, a couple of weeks to figure out what that best looks like. But we can figure it out fairly quickly.”
With the game on the line in the final seconds, Doncic was the one inbounding the ball to James, who then missed two 3-point attempts in the final six seconds. Doncic had
Jung, despite triple bogey, ups lead to 5 shots in
second straight 71 to tie for third with Japan’s Yuto Hayaski, who posted an even-par 72. With just one round left, the battle for the coveted 30 tour cards remains intense in the 72-hole elimination event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. leading up to the 10-leg circuit set to begin at Pradera Verde on Monday. Jung, who seized a four-shot lead over Ji Sung Cheon with a brilliant 67 on Wednesday, looked poised for another stellar round after hitting back-to-back birdies from No. 4.
He quickly recovered from a mishap on the eighth with another birdie on the 10th, maintaining his momentum.
But the big-hitting 19-year-old encountered trouble on the par-5 11th, where he closed with a costly triplebogey. Another dropped shot on the 14th, his second consecutive bogey on that hole, further slowed his charge. Despite the setbacks, Jung steadied himself with a birdie on the 15th by salvaging a 73 for a three-round total of five-under 211 and heads into the final round with a commanding fivestroke lead over Corpus, who pooled an even-par 216.
“I thought I was playing against the wind when I set up for my tee shot on No. 11, but the wind shifted, and the ball ended up in the hazard,” said Jung of his triple-bogey, which was compounded by a three-putt finish.
“I played pretty conservatively over the past three days, but tomorrow [Friday], I’ll try to be more aggressive,” he said.
De los Santos and Hayaski trail further behind at 219, eight shots off the leader.
Several local hopefuls strengthened their bids for the other spots in the Top 30, all aiming for a spot in this year’s highly anticipated PGT season. They include Paul Echavez, who
EASTRIDGE-PRIMEHOMES pooled a second straight 105 points behind Chris Remata’s careerbest Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub round on Thursday as the Binangonanbased squad tries to wrap up its first Men’s Championship crown by taking a 14-point lead over powerhouse Manila Southwoods into the final round. Remata had seven birdies in a threeunder-par 67 worth 39 points at the Bacolod Golf Club, Rolando Bregente Jr. accounted for 34 and either 32s of Alex Bisera and
no problem with not being in the lategame spotlight.
“He had it going, so obviously we’re going to go to him,” Doncic said. “I think it’ll go both ways. One time it’s going to be him, and one time me. I think it depends on how the game is going.”
The Lakers acquired Doncic from the Mavs on February 2 in a seismic trade that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas. Doncic played in both of the Lakers’ final two games before the All-Star break, but he logged only 47 total minutes while the Lakers eased him back into competition. Doncic then got several days of recovery and reset while the rest of the NBA’s top players convened in San Francisco for the All-Star Game
“Honestly, I was getting my mind off basketball a little bit,” Doncic said. “I’m just excited to come back and play. I missed a lot of time. I’ve never missed this much time, so it was something new to me. Now I’m just excited to get back to play.”
Doncic won’t have time to dwell on this slow start: The Lakers jumped on a plane to Portland after their loss, and they’ll face the Trail Blazers on Thursday before visiting Denver on Saturday. AP
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By Josef Ramos
fought back with a 71, securing solo fifth at 220, while Japan’s Atsushi Ueda carded a 74 for 221 followed by amateur Jhondie Quibol, eho slipped to joint seventh at 223 alongside Belem Arancon, who shot a 74. Dan Cruz skied to a 78 after a 71 for 224, while two-time Q-School champion Toru Nakajima faltered with a 77, dropping to joint 10th at 225, where he was joined by James Ryan Lam, who fired a 70, and Rey Pagunsan, who hobbled with a 77.
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MORE than 500 cyclists will vie in the PhilCycling National Championships for Road that flag off w ith the Criterium races on Monday (February 24) in Tagaytay City.
The races that will determine the composition of the national road team for this year features the Men and Women Elite, Under-23, Junior and Youth categories in Criterium, Individual Time Trial (ITT) and Road races.
The championships are presented by the MVP Sports Foundation and Standard Insurance and organized by the PhilCycling headed by Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol”
as he comes out for the final round together with Edison Tabalin, Ronel Taga-an and pro-bound Jeff Lumbo. “We know what Southwoods can do—coming from behind is not new to that team.” Shinichi Suzuki fired 38 points, Patrick Tambalque carded 36 and Emil Hernandez had a 34 as Southwoods outscored Eastridge for the first time this week—something which makes nonplaying skipper Thirdy Escano not throw in the towel.
“It will be very difficult, but it’s not impossible,” said Escano as he fields in Zeus Sara, Perry Bucay, Santino Laurel and Mico Granda to do the improbable. “We will need at least two super
rounds [in the final round].”
The last 18 holes of the 76th edition of what is regarded as the unofficial team golf championship in the country will be played at tree-lined Marapara. Tagaytay Highlands-Team IMG slipped to third after accounting for only 88 points led by the 33 of Ace Stehmeier, trailing Eastridge by 29 and Southwoods by 15.
“I am very happy with how I played, how I was able to help the team,” Remata, the Davao native who is entertaining thoughts of turning pro before the end of the year, said.
“This is my best performance [in the Interclub] and I am glad that it came
Tolentino, also the president of the Philippine Olympic Committee. There are 111 riders in the Men Elite, 133 in Under-23, 116 in Junior and a combined 97 in Youth 1 and 2 in the championships also backed by Tagaytay City and Excellent Noodles as well as the Philippine Sports Commission, which supports the national teams of cycling.
The roster for the women’s races will be finalized on Sunday morning during the team managers, coaches and riders meetings at the Sigtuna Hall inside the Tagaytay City Atrium.
The Criterium races will on a 2.1-km circuit on Isaac Tolentino Avenue and
on the day it did.”
Canlubang Golf, meanwhile, reclaimed the lead in the Founders bracket after tallying 99 points at Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club (NOGCC) led by the tournamentbest 40 points of John Bernis.
The Sugar Barons have opened up a 16-point lead over Cebu Country Club (CCC) and NOGCC with their 284 tally as Fernando Zadariagga scored 30 and Carlo Quimson 29. CCC struggled big time with just 79 points led by the 30 of
Acle, Mahogany and Crisanto Tolentino streets with the start-finish are set at the Praying Hands monument.
On Tuesday, the championships will proceed to Nasugbu and Tuy in Batangas for the Individual Time Trial races with the Road events set from Tuesday to Friday over a 44-km circuit with the start-finish area set in Barangay Putol in Tuy and the route over the national highway in Nasugbu, Balayan and Lian. The championships are also supported by Mayors Jose Jecerell Cerrado (Tuy), Emmanuel Salvador Fronda II (Balayan), Antonio Jose Barcelon (Nasugbu) and Joseph Peji (Lian).
to add star power to the event. With close to 100 players ready to defy Father Time, organizers have decided to divide the participants into four teams, thus guaranteeing a whole day of fun, joy and laughter. Clashing in the opening game at 11 a.m. are Team Bascon-Apir
along with Villarias brothers—Vernie and Victor while Nap Hatton, Dongking Sasuman and Leo Batog banner Team MKU-QGO-Acro City, Peewee Demonteverde and Teruel Ahmit anchor Team Basco-Apir.
THE big-hitting 19-year-old Jaehyun Jung looks like a virtual top-notcher with one round remaining.
CHRIS REMATA cards bis best round in the Interclub.
