THE country’s export earnings may not completely suffer from the higher tariffs that could be imposed by the Trump administration, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
I n a speech delivered at the Rotary Club of Manila on Thursday, B SP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said while there may be “some concern” regarding the country’s goods e xports, service exports may be less affected by Trump tariffs.
The higher tariffs promised by Trump on the campaign trail represent one of the challenges that the Philippine economy faces this year. Remolona said the country’s export earnings will be fueled by earnings from services trade.
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE Philippines should brace for “very unusual kind of uncertainty” even as the economy is now on firmer footing, according to the Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
In a Rotary Club of Manila forum on Thursday, BSP Governor and Chairman of the Monetary Board Eli M. Remolona Jr. said the challenges revolve around the uncertainty caused by the policies of the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump in the United States. This includes restrictive trade policies that could impact inflation and economic growth worldwide as well as migration policies that could also affect Filipino households here and abroad. Remolona also said financial inclusion remains a challenge despite digitalization.
“I would say that we’ve done the hard work. And as a result of that, we are what I would call [on] firmer footing in the economy. But I think it’s still too soon to declare victory. We still have work to do,” Remolona said.
“We’re facing new kinds of challenges, very unusual kind of uncertainty. And so we have to be a little more cautious than before,” he added.
Remolona said in the third quarter, the economy “stalled” given the growth of only 5.2 percent. However, he said, this did not prevent the economy from posting a growth of 5.8 percent in the first three quarters of the year.
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is targeting to complete its consultations on the proposed fare hike for the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) by the second quarter of the year.
In a television interview with state-run PTV, DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said DOTr-Rail Regulatory Unit (RRU) started its hearing on the petition from the Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) to increase its fees by around P2. He said the petition was al -
“With regard to tariffs, I would say we’re in better shape than many other countries because in our trade, a big chunk of our trade is services trade, BPO and remittances. And that’s not so easy to impose tariffs on. And so hopefully, our services trade will remain intact,” Remolona said. Remolona said much of the uncertainty this year hinges on the incoming Trump administration, which is e xpected to not only raise tariffs but also deport millions of migrants from the United States.
He said these policies will have a significant impact on the labor market of the United States and also affect the Philippine economy, given the number of Filipinos residing in the US.
The challenges, I would say, have to do with the uncertainty about what Mr. Trump may do. So he has threatened tariffs. He has threatened to deport millions of people from the United States. There is likely to be some retaliation to the tariffs. There is likely to be a significant impact on the labor force in the United S tates, and it will also affect our own economy,” Remolona said.
PS a : 11-month export earnings cut
percent from the
export sales in the same month of the previous year. The PSA noted that in October 2024 and November 2023, the total export sales registered annual declines of 5 percent and 13 percent, r espectively.
M E ANWHILE , o n Thursday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the country's total merchandise export earnings contracted i n January to November 2024. The PSA reported that the yearto-date annual total value of exports, that is from January to November 2024, amounted to $67.55 billion, a 0.4-percent decline from the yearto-date annual total export value of $67.83 billion in January to November 2023. I n November 2024, total export sales in November 2024 amounted to $5.69 billion, a contraction of
ready approved by the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA).
“It needs to go through the Rail Regulatory Unit and then they will create a recommendation for DOTr to approve or disapprove. If there will be an increase, it will start in the second quarter or around April at the earliest,” Bautista said.
LRMC is seeking to raise its boarding fare to P18.15 and distance fare to P1.65 for every kilometer.
Advincula: Nazareno devotion should be rooted in trust, obedience to Christ
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
S millions of Catholic Filipinos celebrated the Feast of Jesus Nazareno on Thursday, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula delivered a powerful reminder about the singular source of hope that never fails: the Jesus Nazareno.
Iisa lamang ang tunay na maaasahan; iisa lamang ang nagdudulot ng pag-asang hindi bumibigo: ang Mahal na Poong Hesus Nazareno [Only one deserves our full trust, only one provides hope that never fails: our beloved Hesus Nazareno],” Advincula said, urging the faithful to entrust their lives fully to Christ.
The cardinal emphasized that true devotion requires living in obedience to Christ’s teachings and warned against misplaced priorities.
“ Kung naghahandog tayo sa Señor, pero sumusunod naman tayo sa pera, ibig sabihin, pera talaga ang inaasahan natin. [If we make offerings to Senor, but we follow the dictates of money, that means, money is our master],” he said.
He also cautioned that relying on worldly pursuits such as politics and vices leads only to disappointment. Instead, he called on devotees to align their lives with Christ, the one true source of enduring hope.
Kaya’t siya ang sundin natin. Ang
mga utos niya ang isabuhay natin. Ang mga aral niya ang isapuso natin. Ang halimbawa niya ang tularan natin. [So, let us follow Him. Let us live out His teachings. Let us commit to heart his examples],” he urged. This year’s feast, centered on the theme “ Mas mabuti ang pagsunod kaysa paghahandog sa mga umaasa kay Hesus ” [Obedience is better than sacrifice for those who hope in Jesus], served as a call for devotees to reflect deeply on the authenticity of their faith. Advincula closed with an invitation for people to renew their com
Photos by BusinessMirror (clockwise, starting from bottom left) reflect the unstoppable tide of faith, hope, trust trying to
Story below, right. PHOTOS BY
DOMINGO, NONIE REYES, BERNARD TESTA, JOEL PAREDES
b a ng KO S entral ng Pilipinas governor Eli M. remolona, jr addresses the rotary club of Manila
at its 18th Weekly Membership Meeting at the Manila Polo club in Makati city on thursday, january 9, 2025. NONOY LACZA
PBBM to join trilateral call with Biden, Ishiba on Jan. 12
By Samuel P. Medenilla
@sam_medenilla
ALACAÑANG said Presi -
Mdent Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is scheduled to hold a trilateral phone call with United States President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru at the weekend.
“We can confirm that this is in the calendar of PBBM [President Bongbong Marcos] on January 12, Sunday,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar B. Chavez said in a brief statement to Palace reporters on Thursday.
As of press time, the Palace has yet to disclose the issues on the meeting’s agenda.
Chavez issued the statement af -
Advincula...
Continued from A1
“Pag-asa kay Hesus at pagsunod kay Hesus:
ito ang mga tanda ng tunay na deboto [Trusting in Jesus and following Jesus: that is the mark of a true devotee],” he said, as the crowd responded with the resounding cry of “Viva Señor Nazareno!”
Traslacion hurdles
Hour S a fter the Misa Mayor, the annual Trasla -
ter the White House announced on Wednesday that Biden will host the virtual trilateral meeting between the Philippines and Japan this week.
The meeting will be held days before Biden ends his term and the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump on 20 January 2025.
Last April, Biden hosted the first ever Philippines-US-Japan summit in Washington D.C. to discuss possible economic and defense coordination among the said countries amid the increasing aggression of China in the Indo-Pacific region.
During the meeting, the participants announced the launch of the Luzon Economic Corridor and the PhilippinesUS-Japan humanitarian assistance and disaster response exercise.
cion began, with devotees walking a total of 5.8 kilometers alongside the image of the Jesus Nazareno from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.
Throughout the procession, the andas or carriage carrying the revered image frequently came to a halt due to the sheer volume of people. At several points, it nearly toppled as devotees vied to get closer.
Despite reminders from Quiapo Church’s Fiesta Committee that climbing onto the andas is prohibited, many devotees defied the rules, clinging to the cross and windows of the carriage.
Labor concerns
T HE Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) said it hopes the country will be able to maintain its strong ties with the US under the administration of Trump.
The country’s largest trade federation issued the remark amid its concerns on the effects of Trump’s tariff policies on the local labor market.
In previous weeks, Trump said he is considering imposing higher tariffs from goods coming from Canada, Mexico and China, which can affect global supply chains.
“It [US tariff policies] can be extremely disruptive to moderately disruptive. Our hope is that the Trump 2.0 Administration will treat its Philippine ally differently,” TUCP Vice President
Medical teams assisting during the event reported numerous cases of fractures caused by the intense pushing and shoving among the crowd.
Still, Nazareno Feast spokesperson Fr. ro bert Arellano noted a marked improvement in the behavior of devotees.
“ Sa paglabas ng andas, hindi na magulo mga tao. Hindi kagaya nung pre-pandemic na may nagsisigawan, very aggressive. Ngayon tahimik at mabilis ang pag-usad ng andas,” he observed.
As of writing, Quiapo Church officials said they could not yet estimate when the Traslacion would conclude.
Luis Corral said in a Viber message.
“If tariffs are up, it will be expensive for products made or manufactured in the Philippines to land in the US market; this will result in layoffs and jobs shedding in sunset industries such as garments, considering that the US is Philippine major export destination,” he added.
TUCP urged the government to brace for the possible impact of the tariff policies of the Trump administration with the full implementation of Republic Act No. 11962 or the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act (TBP).
Corral said the TPB will “synergize all the active and passive labormarket programs to address cyclical unemployment, underemployment, and quality of employment and place decent work generation at the heart of every socioeconomic policy.”
“The Trabaho Para sa Bayan Inter-Agency Council should therefore work triple time, more so with new global challenges ahead, particularly the potential impact of incoming US President Donald Trump’s tariff and protectionist policies,” Corral said.
“It’s hard to predict because every Traslacion is different. It all depends on the surge of the crowd and the number of participants. We want the procession to be shorter, but we leave everything to God,” Fr. Arellano added in Filipino.
The longest Traslacion on record occurred in 2012, when the image of Jesus Nazareno took over 22 hours to reach Quiapo Church.
l a st year, the procession lasted roughly 15 hours.
Red Cross kept busy
oVE r 5 00 devotees were provided medical services by the Philippine r e d Cross (P r C ) during the Black Nazarene Feast .
Based on the report from PrC- o p erations Center as of 4 p.m. (January 9), a total of 526 patients were rushed to their 17 first aid stations located in strategic points of the Traslacion procession route from the Quirino Grandstand to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno (Quiapo Church).
More than 1,000 P r C volunteers catered to 267 minor cases, 8 major cases, and checked the vital signs of 223 individuals.
P r C said that minor cases included abrasion, puncture, neck pain, avulsion, burn, hyperacidity, dizziness, laceration, headache, open wound, ingrown nail pain, detached nail, difficulty of breathing, contusion, sprain, sore throat while major cases suffered dizziness with blurry vision, nausea and body weakness, and difficulty of breathing.
Patients who experienced nausea, chest pain, deviated nose, dislocated shoulder, nose bleed, pain on left ankle, difficulty of breathing, chills, back pain, and chills were transported to hospitals like Jose r e yes Memerorial Medical Center, Tondo Medical Center, Philippine o r thopedic Center and Philippine General Hospital.
P r C a lso provided psychosocial first aid to 64 individuals and helped trace the missing companions of four persons.
P r C C hairman and CE o r chard Gordon earlier assured that the P r C s tands ready to ensure the safety and wellbeing of devotees for a peaceful and solemn Traslacion.
“Given the expected large crowds, we will exercise an elevated level of vigilance to our response operations on the ground through our dedicated first aid volunteers and teams who are prepared for any situation or crises,” remarked Gordon. With a report by Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
Continued from A1
Bautista said the processing of LRMC’s previous fare hike petitions since 2018 were delayed due to the pandemic.
“It’s only last year, when they were granted their first increase and under the concession agreement, which should be respected by the government, they should be granted increases because of their rising cost of operations,” Bautista explained.
Since LRT-1 underwent several enhancements and opened five new stations under its Cavite Extension, its daily passengers reached 460,000 as of last month.
Bautista said the Cavite extension increased the capacity of LRT-1 by 80,000. Samuel P. Medenilla
Very...
Continued from A1
He said the third-quarter performance of the Philippines was nothing to be ashamed of because advanced economies like the u S p osted a growth of 2 to 3 percent while Europe posted zero growth.
In Asia, r e molona said, China may post a growth of around 5 percent, significantly lower than the 9 to 10 percent growth it used to record. Japan, he said, was “not growing.”
The BSP Governor said that overall, the economy was doing well, better than it used to, given the challenges that the economy faced, particularly in terms of inflation.
Further, r e molona said it had been challenging to bring down inflation in the past few years due to external factors such as the r u ssian invasion of u kraine, which led to a surge in energy prices.
This included India’s decision to ban the export of basmati rice which led to higher prices of the commodity, the country’s food staple. As such, r e molona said, rice prices remain a “salient price” or the most noticeable to people when it comes to inflation.
“If you look at the economy, we’ve been doing well. In the first three quarters of the year, we were growing at 5.8 percent. That's pretty good. In Asean, that was one of the best growth rates,” he added.
Digital banks oN b anking, r e molona said the BSP has allowed the entry of four more digital banks in the hope of bringing more Filipinos to have bank accounts or at least an e-wallet account that would later encourage them to open bank accounts.
Many digital banks, r e molona said, are doing good work in enticing digital deposits. The challenge for them is extending loans in a virtual space.
r e molona said the BSP is looking for better business models or innovative solutions that digital banks can emulate and adopt in order to lend to more Filipinos.
"So among the six, about two of them are doing well and the four others are struggling. But we're looking for other business models. And so we have seen a lot of applications from banks with very successful business models abroad, and we're just checking on their data," r e molona said.
“With digital banks relying on data that is new and innovative, we are hoping that they will be able to lend to more people without requiring the usual amount of collateral that banks have so far relied on. So that's our strategy, that’s part of our strategy for financial inclusion,” he also said.
BMI: Fewer rate cuts
M EANWHI l E t he BSP is now projected to implement fewer rate cuts due to the uncertainties created by the incoming Trump administration, according to l o ndon-based think tank.
In its latest brief on the Philippines, BMI
Continued from A1
The commodity group with the highest annual decrease in the value of exports in November 2024 was electronic products, the country's top export, with $729.38 million. This was followed by cathodes and sections of cathodes, of refined copper with an annual decrease of $98.5 million; and ignition wiring set and other wiring sets used in vehicles, aircrafts and ships with an annual decline of $13.44 million. The data also showed the United States was the country's largest export market in November 2024. It posted the highest export value amounting to $969.09 million or a share of 17 percent to the country’s total exports in November 2024. This was followed by Japan with export earnings amounting to $916.12 million or 16.1 percent of the total; the People’s Republic of China, $786.35 million or 13.8 percent; Hong Kong, $600.24 million or 10.5 percent; and Singapore, $288.11 million or 5.1 percent. Meanwhile, year-to-date annual total merchandise import value amounted to $117.51 billion. This represented a growth of 1.1 percent from the year-to-date annual total
Country r i sk & Industry r e search, a Fitch Solutions Company, these uncertainties have caused the uS F ederal r e serve to “dial back” on its projected rate cuts. With this, BMI pegged its policy rate forecast for the Philippines at 5 percent by the end of the year instead of 4.5 percent. The BSP is expected to cut rates by 75 basis points (bps) instead of the 100 bps in its earlier projection.
“While policy loosening will continue, its implementation will be extended over the time horizon. To be clear, we are still expecting the terminal rate to be around 4.5 percent,” BMI said.
“But the BSP will probably not get there in 2025. We are only projecting about 75 bps of cuts this year with 50 bps in H1 [first half of 2025] and the remaining 25 bps in H2 [second half of 2025],” it also said. For his part, r e molona again stressed that the Monetary Board does not pin its policy decisions on the actions of the u S Federal r eserve. r e molona said, however, that market expectations do support a more cautious Federal r e serve, indicating that the first policy rate cut in the u S w ill come in the second half of the year.
This, however, is not an indication that the BSP will follow suit. He said the u S Federal r e serve's actions are merely a data point for the Monetary Board and that the main consideration remains domestic inflation.
“We look at our own data, and what the Fed does is just another piece of data. It goes into our analysis, it goes into our models, and we decide on monetary policy based on that,” r e molona said. Nonetheless, BMI said the BSP is on track to reducing its policy rates by 25 bps in the Monetary Board's first policy meeting for the year slated for February 20. This is despite expectations that inflation will pick up in the coming months. BMI stressed, however, that faster inflation will still be within the 2 to 4 percent target range set by the BSP. The December inflation print of 2.9 percent, which placed full year 2024 inflation at 3.2 percent, also gives the BSP more policy space to reduce rates in its next meeting.
“The BSP’s hawkish tilt is not at all surprising. Central banks around the world have similarly signalled more restraint in monetary easing going forward, against the backdrop of policy uncertainty in the u S ,” BMI said.
BSP will maintain an easing posture next year, but it considers a 100-basispoint (bps) reduction in key policy rates as “excessive” as inflation could rear its ugly head again in 2025.
o n T hursday, the Monetary Board decided to reduce policy rates by 25 basis points (bps), its third rate cut this year. The Thursday meeting of the seven-man Monetary Board is the last for 2024. The latest reduction brought down the prevailing interest rates to 5.75 percent. The interest rates on the overnight deposit and lending facilities were accordingly adjusted to 5.25 percent and 6.25 percent, respectively.
import value of $116.25 billion in January to November 2023. In November 2024, the total imported goods in November 2024 amounted to $10.46 billion, indicating a contraction of 4.9 percent from the $11-billion import value in the same month of the previous year. In October 2024 and November 2023, the PSA data showed, import value recorded annual increases of 11.3 percent and 1.7 percent, respectively. The PSA data showed that in November 2024, the commodity group with the highest annual decrease in the value of imported goods was mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials with $421.88 million. This was followed by transport equipment, which decreased by $352.7 million, and miscellaneous manufactured articles with an annual decline of $68.87 million. The data also showed that China was the country's top source of imports, with goods valued at $2.82 billion or 27 percent of the country’s total imports in November 2024. This was followed by Indonesia which import
Zamboanga turns page on siege with new SM Foundation school building
THE SM Foundation and SM Prime turned over a newly built two-story school building to Sta. Barbara Central Elementary School in Zamboanga City, which was heavily ravaged during the Zamboanga siege in 2013.
School principal Anna Liza Martin says that none of the three multi-story school buildings of Sta. Barbara Central School survived the attacks as all of them were rendered unusable after the siege.
As the campus fell under the control of the insurgents who barricaded themselves inside the classrooms, all school facilities were either completely demolished or considered dangerous to use for everyday classes.
Aside from the classrooms, Martin says that all their learners lost considerable school hours, added with the stress and pressure of having to relocate to neighboring schools just to catch up.
Hindered from proper learning
HEAD teacher Alice Yusop, who witnessed the attacks and their impact on children, says that even when neighboring campuses have hosted their learners, the shortage of teachers and facilities in nearby schools within the community hindered their learners from receiving quality education.
“Six of us teachers had to follow them there so that we can teach them because those schools can barely accommodate them and we did not want them to lose any more school days,” Yusop says.
But the Zamboanga siege not only affected the learners’ school days, but their mental well-being, as well, according to the teacher.
“I remember one specific instance when, in one of our makeshift classrooms in a host campus, there was an explosion, but it was just an electric fuse box. I remember how the learners ran scared and crying. That was the toll on them. It was not only about losing school days, but it was also about their mental health,” she says. Martin recalls how the school’s recovery was a very hard and long process. Going back to the campus after the month-long attacks, they found almost nothing to build from and the memories of the attacks scattered all around them.
“It took more than five years for us to rebuild Sta. Barbara Central School,” she says.
Nidznalyn Kasim, one of the parents of Sta. Barbara Central School’s pupils, shares how the siege has dampened the spirits of the learners and the whole community in the aftermath.
“We were scared. But as there was also almost nothing left after the siege, we had to face the fact that our learners, the children, might not have anywhere else to go in the meantime. It was very hard,” Kasim says.
Fresh start, new hope NOW, more than a decade later, the SM Foundation continues to help ease the educational challenges caused by the siege as it turns over the new building to the teachers and the learners of Sta. Barbara Central School.
SMFI executive director for education programs Carmen Linda Atayde, in her speech during the turnover ceremony, says that it is the 109th school building that was donated by the foundation to schools all over the country. This is the second school building built by the foundation in Zamboanga.
The four-classroom building is equipped with electric fans for proper ventilation, toilets, and washbasins inside the classrooms.
They also furnished the classrooms with 25 left-handed armchairs, which were made by the PWD community in Manila, as well as facilities that can cater PWD learners and teachers.
The new building also has a clinic, a mini library, and a room dedicated to the arts and music.
Sta. Barbara Central School caters to almost 3,000 enrollees, 99 percent of whom are Muslim learners from nearby Barangays Sta. Barbara, Rio Hondo, Marique, and Kasanyagan.
The new building from the SMFI will be utilized by Grade 2 and Kindergarten learners.
“The opening of this school building indeed showed the
learners that we can have a new start, that there are still social good partners who are willing to help pave the way so that they can have a brighter future despite what happened in the past,” Kasim says.
Martin says that the project brought with it new hope for the future, erasing from memory the trauma and the struggles that came with the attacks.
“The building effectively blocks remnants of the siege and has transformed Sta. Barbara Central School. There is no fear anymore and no more worries,” she says.
Believing in the power of education in uplifting communities, SM Foundation has been an active member of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program since 2002, turning over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities nationwide. The said program intends to address overcrowding in schools and provide an environment conducive for learning.
THE SM Group, through SM Prime and SM Foundation, turned over a newly built two-story school building to Sta. Barbara Central Elementary School in Zamboanga City.
SM Foundation Executive Director for Education Carmen Linda Atayde, SM Mindpro Mall Manager Aileen Ann Enriquez, SM Mindpro OIC and Assistant Mall Manager Jodie Durens, Dr. Basilio Uy, Acting Chief for School Governance and
Nidznalyn
the turnover of the new school building.
STA. Barbara Central School caters to almost 3,000 enrollees,
THE new school building is equipped with armchairs, panoramic whiteboards, electric fans, and tables and chairs for teachers, providing an environment conducive for learning.
Survey: Most Pinoys back QuadCom probes
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
AMAJORITY of Filipinos support the ongoing investigations led by the House Quad Committee into extrajudicial killings (EJKs), illegal drugs, and illicit Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogo), a survey found out.
A Pulse Asia survey, which was commissioned by the Stratbase Group and conducted from November 26 to December 3, 2024, revealed that 61 percent of respondents are in favor of the investigations.
According to the survey, 24 percent remain undecided, and only 11 percent expressed opposition. The study, which involved 2,400 respondents, carries a margin of error of ±2 percent.
The survey said support for the investigations is highest in the National Capital Region (NCR), with 73 percent of respondents in favor of the investigations. Balance Luzon follows with 66 percent and 59 percent in the Visayas.
It said Mindanao shows the lowest support at 46 percent, Mindanao is known for its ties to the Duterte family, which has been implicated in the investigations.
Notably, 30 percent of respondents in Mindanao remain undecided, the highest among all regions.
Among socio-economic classes, support is highest among
Classes ABC, with 64 percent backing the Quad Committee’s efforts.
Survey results also highlight what the public wants the most to achieve from the QuadCom investigations.
For 37 percent of Filipinos, the survey said they expect the QuadCom to be able to identify the government officials responsible for EJKs, illegal drug activities, and illicit Pogo operations.
Another 27 percent hope the investigations will lead to the creation of new laws to address these issues, while 11 percent want the investigations to result in the prosecution and conviction of those involved in these criminal networks, the pollster added.
The Quad Committee’s highprofile inquiries have spotlighted critical issues, such as EJKs, offshore gaming operations, and land ownership abuses. These investigations have led to several key legislative measures, including HB 10986, or the Classifying Extrajudicial Killing as a Heinous Crime; HB 10987, or the Anti-Offshore Gaming Operations Act; HB 10998, or the Espionage Law of 2024; HB 11043, or the Civil Forfeiture Act; and HB 11117, or the Fraudulent Birth Certificate Cancellation Law.
The QuadCom has also recommended filing crimes against humanity charges under Re -
public Act 9851 against former President Rodrigo Duterte, Sens. Christopher Lawrence Go and Ronald dela Rosa, two retired National Police (PNP) chiefs, and other high-ranking officials.
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, the lead chairman of the Quadcomm, said this recommendation stems from their alleged involvement in over 30,000 extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
Sara impeachment
ANOTHER survey indicates that 41 percent of Filipinos support the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, doe in collaboration with the Stratbase Group, conducted from December 12 to December 18, 2024, polled 2,160 respondents across the Philippines and reported a margin of error of ±2 percent.
Support for Duterte’s impeachment is most pronounced in Balance Luzon, where 50 percent of respondents advocate for her removal. Meanwhile, 19 percent remain undecided.
The survey contrasts sharply with Mindanao, traditionally considered Duterte’s stronghold, where 56 percent of respondents oppose impeachment.
The Visayas appears to be the most ambivalent, with undecided respondents comprising a significant portion of the population.
The survey highlighted notable differences across socioeconomic classes. Support for impeachment is strongest among Classes ABC, where 50 percent agree with the complaint, underscoring a potentially higher level of scrutiny among wealthier and more educated demographics.
Results from the same survey also show that 46 percent of Filipinos believe that the unexplained spending of confidential and intelligence funds by the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education may be the best basis to impeach Duterte.
Similarly, the survey said her refusal to answer investigations into these funds also raises serious questions for 36 percent of Filipinos.
The pollster said accusations of ill-gotten wealth, evident in discrepancies in her Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), at 25 percent, further erode public trust, while threats to the lives of prominent figures, including President Marcos, at 24 percent, are another possible basis Filipinos are looking at for her impeachment.
Duterte faces three impeachment complaints in the House of Representatives, which accuse her of gross incompetence, betrayal of public trust, and deliberate misuse of public funds.
A fourth impeachment com -
See “Survey,” A5
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Marcos: Face challenges with faith, grace
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
PRESIDENT Marcos on Monday called on the people to face challenges with faith and grace and find strength in unity and compassion.
In his message for the Feast of Black Nazarene, Marcos said, “puts into our mind the strength that allows us to find harmony in our faith as a people.”
Marcos said the heavy cross carried by the Black Nazarene should remind Filipinos on how they can bear their burden with the help of the Almighty.
“It also speaks of the immense power and compassion of God who walks with us and hears our prayers, especially in our time of need,” he said.
In a separate statement posted on social media page, Marcos pointed out that “no burden is too heavy when carried with faith.”
He said he hopes the Black Nazarene will also help inspire Filipinos to care for others.
“May this day fortify every devotee who joins the procession-whether in person or in spirit-a deeper bond with the Almighty and a higher purpose in serving others,”
Marcos said.
“I am confident that we are able to epitomize the example of the Nazarene in our daily works in this world as hope bearers, peacemaker and builders of society who will change their respective communities with one good deed of a time.”
He also called on the faithful to not only focus on their spiritual journeys but to actively work towards serving their communities, echoing the example set by the Nazarene.
“This colossal gathering of Filipinos on the streets of Manila is a testament to our people’s solidarity and camaraderie,” Marcos said.
His hope is for every devotee in the procession—whether in person or in spirit—to have a deeper bond with the Almighty and a higher purpose in serving others.
“I am confident that we are able to epitomize the example of the Nazarene in our daily walks in this world as hope bearers, peacemakers, and builders of society who will change their respective communities with one good deed at a time,” he said. With PNA
Vic Sotto files cyberlibel case vs movie director
ABy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
CTOR and Eat Bulaga noontime show host Vic Sotto on Thursday filed 19 counts of cyber libel charges against controversial movie director Darryl Yap in connection with the release of the trailer of his upcoming film “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma” which mentioned his name.
Sotto through his lawyer, Enrique dela Cruz filed the cyberlibel charges under Section 4 ( c ) (4) of Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012
See “Sotto,” A5
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Meralco rate cut seen in January
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
AREDUCTION in electricity rates is possible this month as generation charge, which makes up bulk of the Manila Electric Company’s (Meralco) bill, may register a decrease.
“Indications show a possible decrease in the generation charge in our customers’ bills this January,” Meralco spokesman Joe Zaldarriaga said. “We expect this month’s lower generation charge to lead to an overall rate reduction in this month’s electricity rates.”
Zaldariaga said this month’s lower generation charge will be primarily driven by lower WESM (Wholesale Electricity Spot Market) prices owing to improved supply situation in the Luzon
grid as both average peak demand and average capacity on outage went down in the December supply month.
WESM rates are part of generation charge billed by distribution utilities to their customers.
According to the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (Iemop), the WESM is starting the year off with a significantly lower price.
For the billing period November 26 to December 25, 2024, the
operator of the WESM said the system average price dropped to P3.45 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the December 2024 billing month, which will then be reflected in the January electric bill of consumers.
“Notable changes are driven by a combination of higher supply and lower demand across all regions,” said Iemop.
On a system-wide level, average supply increased by 3.4 percent, reaching 20,150 megawatts while average demand decreased by 2.8 percent, falling to 13,275 MW. This supply and demand dynamics led to a 21.9 percent reduction in the system average price, which dropped to P3.45 per kWh from P4.42 per kwh.
In Luzon, the average supply rose by 4 percent, amounting to 14,193 MW, while average demand fell by 3.3 percent, settling at 9,344 MW. Consequently, the regional average price decreased by 23 percent, down to P3.26/ kWh.
Similarly, in the Visayas, supply increased by 3.8 percent to 2,485 MW while demand declined by 1.4 percent to 1,942 MW. This supply-demand change resulted in a 19.8 percent reduction in the regional average price, which dropped to P3.87 per kWh.
In Mindanao, the supply increased at 0.6 percent, reaching 3,473 MW while demand fell by 2 percent to 1,989 MW. The regional average price decreased by 20 percent, landing at P3.88 per kWh.
Compared with the previous month, total energy generated decreased by 6.3 percent from 9,867 gigawatt hours (GWh) in November to 9,245 GWh in December. Renewable Energy (RE) generators contributed 24.5 percent while coal and natural gas contributed 58.9 percent and 15 percent respectively. RE contribution was driven by wind plants generation with substantial increase from 120 GWh to 166 GWh.
CREATE MORE Act to help boost employment–DOLE
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act is poised to significantly affect employment in the Philippines, aligning with the administration’s broader goals of “inclusive growth and quality job” creation.
Amid the positive results of the November 2024 Labor Force Survey, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) on Tuesday evening said the new law can further improve labor market activity.
“The recently enacted CREATE MORE Act is expected to generate additional income opportunities and stimulate economic growth,” Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said.
The CREATE MORE Act or Republic Act 12066, which was signed in November, is expected to generate additional income opportunities and foster economic growth by providing tax incentives to businesses so they can expand operations, invest in new ventures, and create more jobs.
The law is an amendment of the Duterte administration’s Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act, which was created to help enterprises recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The November 2024 LFS results showed an increase in the employment rate to 96.8 percent from 96.4 percent in the same period last year. By month-on-month comparison, the number of Filipinos employed grew by 1.385 million compared to October.
The country’s unemployment rate also saw improvements, dropping from 3.6 percent in November 2023 to 3.2 percent this year. Despite these gains, Laguesma acknowledged that challenges such as technological disruptions and climate change continue to affect the labor market, particularly for youth and women.
“We have consistently updated our youth employability modules to meet industry standards to ensure the absorption of our young new entrants in the ranks of the employed,” the labor chief assured.
By leveraging tax incentives, RA 12066 seeks to address these vulnerabilities by encouraging businesses to prioritize workforce expansion and innovation.
Key sectors such as manufacturing, accommodation and food
services, health and social work, and transportation have already shown substantial growth in employment, providing a glimpse of the potential impact of legislative initiatives like CREATE MORE.
Aside from such law, Dole said the Enterprise-based Education and Training Framework Act can boost addresses labor sector gaps by expanding training and upskilling programs in partnership with the private sector.
“With the enactment of the abovementioned laws, the Department will vigorously continue to foster inclusive growth and ensure equitable access to job opportunities, prioritizing the upskilling and reskilling of the workforce to equip Filipino workers with the necessary skills for today’s dynamic job market,” Laguesma said.
Airport modernization gets ₧12 billion in ’25
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) is set to invest more than P12 billion in 2025 to modernize aviation infrastructure and bolster the country’s global competitiveness.
Caap Director General Manuel Antonio Tamayo said the funding, comprising P10.6 billion for civil works and P1.8 billion for equipment and systems upgrades, reflects the government’s commitment to enhance the safety and efficiency of air travel.
“Our thrust is to really make the Philippine sky safe. Ayaw nating magkaroon ng mga [We do not want to have] accidents and incidents, as much as possible,” he said.
Tamayo noted that among Caap’s top priorities for 2025 are the night-rating upgrades for Cauayan, Dipolog, and Pagadian airports. These upgrades will enable safe and efficient night operations, addressing the growing demands of air traffic.
Additionally, the long-awaited Bukidnon Airport is set to commence operations for general aviation in the first quarter of 2025, opening new avenues for local travel and trade in the region.
Tamayo noted that the modernization initiatives are expected to boost tourism and trade and enhance passenger experiences.
Upgade of Pag-asa, 14 other airports set FIFTEEN airports, including Pag-Asa Island Airport in the disputed Spratly Islands, are set to undergo modernization this year, supported by a total allocation of P7.7 billion under the 2025 Gen -
eral Appropriations Act.
This was announced by Makati Rep. Luis Campos Jr., vice chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, on Wednesday.
“We are counting on these upgrades to enhance the overall air travel experience for passengers, attract more tourists, support the growth of small businesses, and create new jobs,” Campos said in a statement.
Campos identified the 15 airports and their corresponding allocations under the Aviation Infrastructure Program in the 2025 General Appropriations Act as follows: Tacloban Airport (P2.3 billion), Pag-asa Island Airport (P1.65 billion), Busuanga Airport (P1 billion), Laoag International Airport (P750 million), Bacon (Sorsogon) Airport (P360 million), Virac Airport (P280 million), Candon Airport (P250 million), New Dumaguete Airport (P200 million), New Manila International Airport (P200 million), Camotes Airport (P200 million), Camiguin Airport (P180 million), New Zamboanga International Airport (P130 million), Central Mindanao (M’lang) Airport (P100 million), New Bohol Airport (P52.1 million), and Bukidnon Airport (P50 million).
“These allocations are fully itemized in the 2025 budget,” said Campos.
He added that aviation infrastructure funds are vital for constructing, rehabilitating, and upgrading runways, taxiways, ramps, control towers, and passenger terminals and acquiring navigational equipment.
With Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
Continued from A4
before the Regional Trial Court in Muntinlupa City.
Sotto is seeking moral damages of at least P20 million and exemplary damages of at least P15 million from Yap for the release of the movie’s teaser where the actress portraying Paloma was directly asked if she was raped by Vic Sotto.
“In this case, the respondent must be held liable for exemplary damages in order to prevent others from committing similar offenses,” Sotto’s camp said.
“His posts are so reprehensible for which he must be held liable to pay exemplary damages in the amount of at least P15 million,” it added.
De la Cruz said that owing to the malicious and defamatory posts by the respondent, Sotto and his family have been
subjected and continue to be subjected to public ridicule and contempt.
Sotto is the father of incumbent Pasig City Mayor Victor “Vico” Sotto and brother of former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III.
Sotto’s lawyer said his client’s wife and daughter have been receiving threats of physical harm because of the online posts of Yap.
“The social humiliation have caused our client to suffer mental anguish and serious anxiety due to tarnished reputation and destroyed credibility,” he stressed.
“Our client has built a good name in the industry. This reputation has now been tarnished by the online posts of Mr. Yap,” he added.
Dela Cruz stressed that while free speech is a right, “we are not free to commit libel” which is “a criminal offense punishable by law.” Survey.
Continued from A4 Sotto.
plaint is expected to be filed against her.
In light of these findings, the House of Representatives faces mounting pressure to address impeachment proceedings.
Under the 1987 Constitution, the Speaker’s Office has 10 session days to include the complaint in the order of business and three
session days to refer it to the Committee on Justice. However, the timing of any action will be affected by Congress’ Christmas break, with sessions resuming on January 13, 2025.
Not surprised
LAWYER Amando Virgil D. Ligutan, who represents the complainants of the third impeachment complaint against the Vice President underscored the growing public demand for
Senior lawmaker sees better training, benefits for seamen
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
ASENIOR lawmaker on Thursday expressed confidence in enhanced legal protection, cutting-edge training, and improved benefits for some 700,000 Filipino mariners following the release of the implementing rules (IRR) of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte said the newly signed IRR aims to safeguard Filipino seamen’s rights from their training and employment through retirement.
Villafuerte lauded the signing of the IRR of Republic Act 12021, held at Malacañang on January 8 and witnessed by President Marcos.
Villafuerte, one of the principal authors of the Magna Carta, com -
accountability.
Ligutan viewed this undecided group as an opportunity to further highlight the urgent need for transparency and integrity in public service.
“We encourage the impeachment proponents to work even harder to make these undecided [citizens] realize there are two starkly opposite sides to choose from: one that promotes honesty, integrity, and accountability, and the other that espouses dishon -
mended the President’s directive for the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to work alongside the Departments of Labor and Transportation, among other agencies, to ensure the full and immediate implementation of the IRR.
“With the prompt release of RA 12021’s IRR, I am counting from hereon on better legal and labor protection plus better training and other benefits due our some 700,000 seafarers during and after their employment, especially in cases of maritime accidents, epidemics or pandemics, and natural or man-made crises, as provided for in the Magna Carta,” Villafuerte said.
“This Magna Carta ensures greater legal and labor protection for our maritime professionals, whether on land or at sea, and
esty, corruption, and impunity,” he added.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun and Deputy Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V said the SWS survey revealing that 41 percent of Filipinos support Duterte’s impeachment comes as no surprise, given the overwhelming evidence of alleged fund misuse and betrayal of public trust.
“The numbers don’t lie. The public is demanding account -
better support for their families, especially in crisis periods,” he added.
The Magna Carta guarantees free legal assistance for seamen facing workplace violations or employment disputes. Under the IRR, the DMW will use the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan (Aksyon) Fund to provide legal aid for overseas cases. For domestic cases, seafarers can seek free representation through the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO).
The IRR integrates protections against harassment and bullying under International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention 190. It mandates shipowners to adopt policies promoting safe spaces on board and ensure procedures for reporting and addressing such issues confidentially.
DMW and Owwa (Overseas
ability, and this survey reflects their growing frustration over the glaring irregularities surrounding the vice president’s actions,” Khonghun said.
He said congressional hearings have unearthed alleged damning evidence, including fabricated recipients like “Mary Grace Piattos” and thousands of suspicious transactions tied to the confidential funds under the vice president’s control. Ortega emphasized that the
Workers Welfare Administration) are tasked with including these provisions in pre-departure orientation seminars to raise awareness about eliminating harassment and ensuring victim support. Villafuerte noted the law’s emphasis on enhancing maritime education, training, certification, and licensing systems to improve Filipino seafarers’ global competitiveness.
He cited the recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between MARINA and the Norwegian Maritime Authority, which expands recognition of Philippine seafarers’ certificates and is expected to generate up to 25,000 additional jobs aboard Norwegian ships. Villafuerte highlighted the critical role of seamen in sustaining the Philippine economy, contributing $12.8 billion in remittances during 2019-2020.
complaints are not politically motivated but are rooted in compelling evidence of governance failures and malfeasance.
“This is about accountability. The evidence against the Vice President is glaring, from the misuse of confidential funds to a pattern of governance riddled with questions. The Filipino people deserve answers, and their support for impeachment shows they are demanding transparency and justice,” Ortega said.
PNP intensifying operations to secure mid-term polls
TBy Rex Anthony Naval
HE Philippine National Police (PNP)
on Thursday said that it had intensified operations against private armed groups and loose firearms as part of its efforts to secure the 2025-midterm elections this May.
This was emphasized by PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil during the activation ceremonies for the National Election Monitoring Action Center (NEMAC) held at
Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Aside from this, Marbil said election security efforts could be further boosted with the use of modern communications technology like body-worn cameras and closed-circuit television (CCTVs).
He added that police officers tapped for election duties will be equipped with working body-worn cameras as an added security measure while their commanders are also directed to install CCTVs in their areas-of- jurisdiction to back up the
surveillance equipment carried by law enforcement operatives.
As this developed, Armed Forces of the Philippines(AFP) public affairs office
chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad clarified that the intensification of intelligence gathering is geared towards helping the Comelec ensure the integrity of the electoral process and safeguard national security.
Senators Estrada, Villanueva say latest jobs data good, but challenges abound
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
THE current and past chairmen of the Senate Labor Committee cited the decline in both joblessness and underemployment as an indication that collective efforts to create more quality jobs for Filipinos, but flagged the risks that policymakers must continue to reckon with. The decrease in the number of jobless Filipinos to 1.66 million, along with a reduction in underemployment to 10.8 percent, highlights our collective efforts to create more job opportunities for our growing workforce,” said Senate President
Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada in a statement after the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed the latest job numbers. While this is a positive development,” Estrada reminds “our efforts must continue,” stressing tha t “it is as essential to address the remaining challenges to ensure that a greater number of Filipino workers are afforded secure and dignified employment opportunities.”
Speaking in Filipino, he expressed hope that more Filipinos can be given job opportunities in 2025, especially since over P1 trillion in funds are lodged with the Department of Public Works and Highways for government projects under
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo @akosistellaBM
Special to the BusinessMirror
THREE Asian countries made it to ForwardKeys’ top 10 most popular destinations in the world in 2024, showing the region’s strong tourism recovery.
In its latest blog entry, ForwardKeys reported, “London maintained its position as the world’s most visited destination, while Bangkok [+30 percent] and Tokyo [+36 percent] emerged as strong contenders, reflecting their growing popularity with travelers through 2024.” On a year-on-year basis, bookings to London grew by nine percent, while Singapore, which came in 10th place, saw a rise by 20 percent.
ForwardKeys a knowledge partner of the private sector-led World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), gathers and analyzes data on airline ticketing from 100 international carriers, passenger profiles, passenger travel itineraries, passenger behavior
patterns, and airport dwell times.
The travel intelligence company also said, “Asia-Pacific [APAC] destinations showed strong post-Covid recovery through 2024, with Beijing and Guangzhou standing out as top performers. Impressive year-on-year growth from Nha Trang [+80 percent], Shanghai [+77 percent], and Hong Kong [+44 percent] highlighted the wider region’s appeal. In 10th place was Seoul with a 32-percent increase in popularity, both for leisure and business travel. Top business travel destinations.”
Shanghai also topped the list of the most popular destination for the global business travel sector, rising by 63 percent, “demonstrating its unmatched appeal for corporate travelers.” It was followed by Kuala Lumpur (+28 percent), Bangkok (+23 percent), and Tokyo (+21 percent), with San Francisco (+10 percent) pulling in 10th place. Manila, unfortunately, does not appear in any of the APAC popular destination lists. Last year, the Philippines managed to attract
this year’s national budget.
He foresees in Filipino that “Patuloy tayong magtulungan para mapanatili at mapalawakpanatinangmgaoportunidad para sa ating mga kababayan.”
In his separate statement, the past labor chief, now-Senator Joel Villanueva, meanwhile, also weighed in on the PSA report.
The senator observed the data started the year on a positive note: “We laud the decrease of the unemployment rate to 3.2 percent in November 2024 from 3.9 percent in October 2024, and underemployment rate to 10.8 percent for the same period, from 12.6 percent in October 2024.”
Trinidad also said the AFP’s role is strictly non-partisan.
“Our efforts are anchored on impartiality and respect for the democratic process. We hope this clarification provides the proper context to prevent misinterpretation of our actions or statements,” he added.
“This initiative is conducted in coordination with the Comelec and PNP, and focuses on identifying potential security threats arising from foreign interference and malign influence. Any findings will be confidentially relayed to the Comelec for appropriate action,” he added.
“We are expecting for a more improved jobs data with the full implementation of the Trabaho Para Sa Bayan Act and the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Program Act, which, we principally authored and sponsored in the Senate, as well as the enactment of the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) bill. These are pivotal drivers in fostering both economic growth and labor policies. These measures, which are priorities of the Marcos administration, are essential in equipping our workforce with the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy,” Villanueva “As we look ahead, we are committed to ensuring the full implementation of these laws, knowing they will play a vital role in further reducing unemployment, creating more opportunities and better quality jobs, and ultimately ensuring sustainable growth for our nation,” he said.
APAC destinations show strong post-Covid tourism recovery
only 5.95 million international travelers, falling way below the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) 7.7 million target, and the private sector’s 6 million prediction. The agency largely blamed it on the sluggish arrivals of mainland Chinese, who in 2019, arrived in droves reaching 1.74 million. Commenting on the poor arrivals performance last year, tourism stakeholders urged government to implement a strategic marketing and promotions plan, improve infrastructure, and adopt a relaxed visa policy to boost foreign tourist arrivals this year. Under a conservative scenario, the DOT has targetted this year’s arrivals at 8.4 million.
(See, “Tourism stakeholders’ call: More focused marketing, infra, relaxed visa policy,” in the B usiness M irror , January 9, 2025.)
Tourists stay longer IN a recent news statement, the DOT highlighted the the 41 percent surge in visitor receipts to P760 billion (US$13.1 billion), with the weak peso versus the
Kanlaon eruption results in ₧129-M agri damage
Tgreenback offering foreign tourists more value for their holidays in the Philippines and its other local destinations. The same emphasis on tourism revenue was fostered by the DOT when diplomatic tensions between Manila and Taiwan, along with the devastation caused by Supertyphoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and the Bohol earthquake in 2013, led to lower-than-targeted tourist arrivals in 2014.
Meanwhile, the agency also cited WTTC data indicating that foreign tourists spent at least $2,073 per capita in the country. Also, the DOT reported that tourists stayed an average of 11 nights in the country, versus 9 nights in 2019. It added that 70 percent of tourists were repeat visitors in 2024, versus 63.18 percent in 2023. It failed to say what markets were the source of repeat visitors. DOT’s data means it only managed to attract 30 percent new tourists to the country. An industry source said, “I would rather have new visitors. Repeat visitors are there already. The objective is to create more repeaters. We do that by getting new tourists.”
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE eruption of Mt. Kanlaon has damaged crops and livestock worth P129.39 million, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).
The agency said in its latest bulletin that the eruption displaced 1,431 farmers, with 581 hectares of farmland. Of this, 307 hectares showed no chance of recovery.
It added that the volume of production loss was pegged at 5,420 metric tons (MT). Broken down, high-value crops sus -
tained the bulk of the damage at 5,311 MT. This was followed by rice at 91 MT, and corn at 18 MT. Livestock and poultry lost 321 chickens, carabaos, cattle, and goats.
The agency said these were equivalent to P124.93 million for high-value crops; P3.06 million for rice, P503,350 for corn, and P900,100 for livestock and poultry.
It stated that the damage in highvalue crops includes upland and lowland vegetables, spices, legumes, fruit trees, root crops, coffee, and cacao. For rice, most of the losses were in vegetative and reproductive stages while
corn had damage in reproductive and maturity stages.
“Additional damage and losses are expected as assessment is ongoing in areas affected by the Kanlaon Volcanic Activity,” the DA said.
Amid the damage sustained by the sector, the DA said it provided affected farmers with several interventions. This includes farm inputs such as rice and corn seeds; as well as drugs and biologics for livestock animals.
The agency also encouraged farmers to tap the P500 million Survival and
Davao halts work and classes for INC rally
DBy Manuel T. Cayon
AVAO CITY—The city government is suspending classes in both public and private schools and directed city government to maintain only a skeleton work force on Monday to give way to the expected mammoth crowd during the nationwide rally by the influential Iglesia ni Cristo. Mayor Sebastian Duterte issued on Thursday Proclamation No. 01, series of 2025 that suspended face-to-face classes at all levels in both public and private schools and mandates a skeleton workforce in all national and local government offices,
including government-owned or controlled corporations.
“This measure aims to ensure public order, safety, and the convenience of Dabawenyos as ten major streets within the city’s business district will be temporarily closed during the conduct of the peace rally,” the proclamation said.
The city government said it called off classes and government work following the expected influx of the members of the INC. “Considering the declared number of participants of the rally, it is imperative to take proactive measures to ensure the welfare and safety of both residents and the visitors. In addition, it is duty-bound to safeguard the public and undertake
measures to avert any untoward incidents or disasters that may occur during the event,” it added.
The city government said that the INC estimated to assemble as many as 500,000 members in its Davao City rally coming from the Davao Region and neighboring regions in Mindanao. But the City Transportation and Traffic Management Office has asked the INC to trim down the number to 300,000.
The City Information Office said that during the City Council’s deliberation of the road closure ordinance on Tuesday, INC Minister Erano Estudillo told councilors that 300,000 members will join the event.
Recovery (SURE) Loan Program from the Agricultural Credit Policy Council, which will allow them to take out a loan of up to P25,000 which is payable in three years at zero interest.
It added that available funds from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) will be disbursed to indemnify affected farmers. Mt. Kanlaon erupted anew last December 9. The volcano remains under alert level 3, indicating a greater risk of hazardous volcanic activity.
Local governments were advised to evacuate the six-kilometer radius from the summit of the volcano and be prepared for additional evacuation if activity from the volcano warrants it.
Estudillo said that preparations for the nationwide peace really has already been done and that this will push through on January 13 whether the permit will be granted or not.
A post from an INC follower said simultaneous rallies will be held Sawangan Park, Legazpi City for the Bicol area, Liwasang Bonifacio for Metro Manila, Batangas and Tarlac areas. INC posts and reposts indicated that the rally was “to promote unity and peace in the country…” Retired Police Col. Angel Sumagaysay, head of Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO), said the suspension of work and classes on January 13 “will help manage traffic and ensure the convenience of Dabawenyos especially those working or studying within the event areas.”
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Friday, January 10, 2025 A9
Out-of-control Los Angeles wildfires burn thousands of homes and other structures
By Manuel Valdes, Hallie Golden & Julie Watson The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES—A fast-moving fire broke out in the hills above Hollywood Boulevard and threatened some of the most popular Los Angeles tourist spots as firefighters battled to get control on two other major blazes that killed five people, put 130,000 people under evacuation orders and ravaged communities from the Pacific Coast to inland Pasadena.
The Sunset Fire started around 5:45 p.m. Wednesday as officials were holding a news conference to update residents on efforts to fight massive blazes in Pacific Palisades and Altadena and to warn that fire danger remained high. Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley made a hasty exit after announcing the new fire and soon after an evacuation order was issued.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame was bustling and the streets around the TCL Chinese Theatre and Madame Tussauds were packed with stop-and-go traffic as sirens blared and low-flying helicopters flew overhead to dump water on the flames, which were only about a mile away. People toting suitcases left hotels while some onlookers walked toward the flames, recording the fire on their phones.
Within a few hours firefighters had made major progress. Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Erik Scott said they were able to keep the fire in check because “we hit it hard and fast and mother nature was a little nicer to us today than she was yesterday.”
A day earlier, hurricane-force winds blew embers through the air, igniting block after block in the Los Angeles coastline neighborhood of Pacific Palisades and about 25 miles (40 kilometers) to the east in Altadena, an unincorporated community near Pasadena.
Nearly 2,000 homes, businesses and other structures have been destroyed in the Eaton and Palisades fires, and the number is expected to increase. The five deaths recorded so far were from
the Eaton Fire.
The Palisades Fire already is the most destructive in Los Angeles history, with at least 1,000 structures burned.
More than half a dozen schools in the area were either damaged or destroyed, including Palisades Charter High School, which has been featured in many Hollywood productions, including the 1976 horror movie “Carrie” and the TV series “Teen Wolf,” officials said. UCLA has canceled classes for the week.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said air operations were dousing flames. She warned they still faced “erratic winds,” though not like Tuesday evening, when aircraft had to be grounded and much of the destruction occurred.
In Pasadena, Fire Chief Chad Augustin said the city’s water system was stretched and was further hampered by power outages, but even without those issues, firefighters would not have been able to stop the fire due to the intense winds fanning the flames.
“Those erratic wind gusts were throwing embers for multiple miles ahead of the fire,” he said.
As flames moved through his neighborhood, Jose Velasquez sprayed down his family’s Altadena home with water as embers rained down on the roof. He managed to save their home, which also houses their family business selling churros, a Mexican pastry. Others weren’t so lucky. Many of his neighbors were at work when they lost their homes.
“So we had to call a few people and then we had people messaging, asking if their house was still standing,” he said. “We had to tell
them that it’s not.”
In Pacific Palisades, a hillside area along the coast dotted with celebrity homes, the scope of the destruction was just becoming clear:
Block after block of California
Mission Style homes and bungalows were reduced to charred remains. Ornate iron railing wrapped around the smoldering frame of one house Swimming pools were blackened with soot, and sports cars slumped on melted tires.
The apocalyptic scenes spread for miles.
Actors lost homes
THE flames marched toward highly populated and affluent neighborhoods, including Calabasas and Santa Monica, home to California’s rich and famous.
Mandy Moore, Cary Elwes and Paris Hilton were among the stars who lost homes. Billy Crystal and his wife Janice lost their home of 45 years in the Palisades Fire.
“We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away,” the Crystals wrote in the statement.
In Palisades Village, the public library, two major grocery stores, a pair of banks and several boutiques were destroyed.
“It’s just really weird coming back to somewhere that doesn’t really exist anymore,” said Dylan Vincent, who returned to the neighborhood to retrieve some items and saw that his elementary school had burned down and that whole blocks had been flattened.
Fast-moving flames allowed little time to escape
THE fires have consumed a total of about 42 square miles (108 square kilometers)—nearly the size of the entire city of San Francisco.
Flames moved so quickly that many barely had time to escape.
Police sought shelter inside their patrol cars, and residents at a senior living center were pushed in wheelchairs and hospital beds down a street to safety.
In the race to get away in Pacific Palisades, roadways became impassable when scores of people abandoned their vehicles and set out on foot.
Higher temperatures and less rain mean a longer fire season
CALIFORNIA’s wildfire season
is beginning earlier and ending later due to rising temperatures and decreased rainfall tied to climate change, according to recent data. Rains that usually end fire season are often delayed, meaning fires can burn through the winter months, according to the Western Fire Chiefs Association.
Dry winds, including the notorious Santa Anas, have contributed to warmer-than-average temperatures in Southern California, which has not seen more than 0.1 inches (2.5 millimeters) of rain since early May.
The winds increased to 80 mph (129 kph) Wednesday, according to reports received by the National Weather Service. Forecasters predicted wind gusts of 35-55 mph (56 to 88 kph) that could rise higher in the mountains and foothills. Fire conditions could last through Friday.
Landmarks get scorched and studios suspend production
PRESIDENT Joe Biden signed a federal emergency declaration after arriving at a Santa Monica fire station for a briefing with Gov. Gavin Newsom, who dispatched National Guard troops to help.
Several Hollywood studios suspended production, and Universal Studios closed its theme park between Pasadena and Pacific Palisades.
As of Wednesday evening, more than 456,000 people were without power in southern California, according to the tracking website PowerOutage.us.
Several Southern California landmarks were heavily damaged, including the Reel Inn in Malibu, a seafood restaurant. Owner Teddy Leonard and her husband hope to rebuild.
“When you look at the grand scheme of things, as long as your family is well and everyone’s alive, you’re still winning, right?” she said.
Golden reported from Seattle and Watson from San Diego. Associated Press journalists Christopher Weber and Eugene Garcia in Los Angeles, Ethan Swope in Pasadena, John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio, Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas, Jeff Martin in Atlanta, Janie Har in San Francisco, Brian Melley in London, Kathy McCormack in Concord, New Hampshire, Sarah Brumfield in Cockeysville, Maryland, and Tammy Webber in Detroit contributed to this report.
Russian missile attack in southern Ukraine has killed at least 13 civilians, officials say
By Illia Novikov The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—A daytime Russian missile attack on the southern Ukraine city of Zaporizhzhia killed at least 13 civilians and wounded about 30 others on Wednesday, officials said.
Footage posted on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Telegram channel shows civilians lying in a city street littered with debris. The post shows them being treated by emergency services and taken away on gurneys.
Russian has frequently launched aerial attacks on civilian areas during the almost three-year war. Thousands of civilians have been killed in Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II.
Zelenskyy and regional Gov. Ivan Fedorov said Wednesday’s attack killed at least 13 civilians. Minutes before the attack, Fedorov had warned of a threat of high-speed missiles and devastating glide bombs being fired at the Zaporizhzhia region.
Russian troops started launching the glide bombs at Zaporizhzhia in the middle of the afternoon, and at least two bombs struck
residential buildings in the city, Fedorov said.
He announced that Thursday would be a day of mourning in the region.
“There is nothing more brutal than aerial bombing of a city, knowing that ordinary civilians will suffer,” Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram.
Zelenskyy said earlier Wednesday that countries wanting to end the war should offer Ukraine assurances about its future defense.
Kyiv officials fear that any ceasefire or peace deal will just give the Kremlin time to rearm and invade again unless it is deterred by military force.
“To be honest, I believe that we have a right to demand serious security guarantees from … the countries that aim for the peace in the world,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy was responding at a news conference in Kyiv to comments the previous day by President-elect Donald Trump that he understood Russia’s opposition to neighboring Ukraine joining NATO.
The United States, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia have stood in the way of Ukraine immediately joining the 32-nation alliance, Zelenskyy noted. The alliance has said only that the country is on an “irreversible path”
to membership.
Earlier, the Ukrainian military said it struck a fuel storage depot deep inside Russia, causing a huge blaze at the facility that supplies an important Russian air base.
Russian officials acknowledged a major drone attack in the area, and said that authorities had set up an emergency command center to fight the fire.
Ukraine’s General Staff said the assault hit the storage facility near Engels, in Russia’s Saratov region, about 600 kilometers (370 miles) east of the Ukrainian border. The depot supplied a nearby airfield used by aircraft that launch missiles across the border into Ukraine, a statement on Facebook said.
Ukraine has been developing its arsenal of domestically produced long-range missiles and drones capable of reaching deep behind the front line as it faces restrictions on the range that its military can fire its Westernsupplied missiles into Russia. The attacks have disrupted Russian logistics in the war, which began on Feb. 24, 2022, and embarrassed the Kremlin. Zelenskyy said last year that his country has developed a weapon that could hit a target 700 kilometers (400 miles) away. Some
Ukrainian drone attacks have hit targets more than 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) away. The governor of the Saratov region, Roman Busargin, said that an unspecified industrial plant in Engels sustained damage from the falling drone debris that sparked a fire, but nobody was hurt. Engels, which has a population of more than 220,000, is on the left bank of the Volga River, and is home to multiple industrial plants. Saratov, a major industrial city of about 900,000, faces Engels across the river.
“The damage to the oil base creates serious logistical problems for the strategic aviation of the Russian occupiers and significantly reduces their ability to strike peaceful Ukrainian cities and civilian objects. To be continued,” the statement from Ukraine’s General Staff said. Russian authorities restricted flights early Wednesday at the airports of Saratov, Ulyanovsk, Kazan and Nizhnekamsk, in an apparent response to the Ukrainian attack. The main base of Russia’s nuclear-capable strategic bombers is just outside Engels. It has come under Ukrainian drone attacks since the early stages of the war, forcing the Russian military to relocate most of the bombers to other areas.
Taiwan demonstrates sea defenses against potential attack as tensions rise with China
KBy Taijing Wu The Associated Press
AOHSIUNG, Taiwan—Taiwan on Thursday demonstrated its sea defenses against a potential Chinese attack as tensions rise with Beijing, part of a multitiered strategy to deter an invasion from the mainland.
The island’s navy highlighted its Kuang Hua VI fast attack missile boats and Tuo Chiangclass corvettes in waters near Taiwan’s largest port of Kaohsiung, a major hub for international trade considered key to resupplying Chinese forces should they establish a beachhead on the island.
The Kuang Hua VI boats, with a crew of 19, carry indigenously developed Hsiung Feng II antiship missiles and displayed their ability to take to the sea in an emergency to intercept enemy ships about to cross the 44-kilometer (24-nautical mile) limit of Taiwan’s contiguous zone, within which governments are permitted to take defensive action.
China routinely sends ships and planes to challenge Taiwan’s willingness and ability to counter intruders, prompting Taiwan to scramble jets, activate missile systems and dispatch warships. Taiwan demanded on Wednesday that China end its ongoing military activity in nearby waters, which it said is undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and disrupting international shipping and trade.
Mountainous Taiwan’s strat -
egy is to counter the much larger Chinese military with a relatively flexible defense that can prevent Chinese troops from crossing the strait. Landing sites are few on Taiwan’s west coast facing China, forcing Beijing to focus on the east coast.
Hsiao Shun-ming, captain of a Tuo Chiang-class corvette, said his ship’s relatively small size still allows it to “deliver a formidable competitive power” against larger Chinese ships. The Tuo Chiang has a catamaran design and boasts high speeds and considerable stealth ability.
Taiwan has in recent years reinvigorated its domestic defense industry, although it still relies heavily on US technology such as upgraded fighter jets, missiles, tanks and detection equipment.
Thursday’s exercise “demonstrates the effectiveness of asymmetric warfare, and Taiwan’s commitment to defense self-reliance,” said Chen Ming-feng, rear admiral and commander of the navy’s 192 Fleet specializing in mine detection. “We are always ready to respond quickly and can handle any kind of maritime situation.”
China’s authoritarian one-party Communist government has refused almost all communication with Taiwan’s pro-independence governments since 2016, and some in Washington and elsewhere say Beijing is growing closer to taking military action.
China considers Taiwan a part of its territory, to be brought under its control by force if necessary, while most Taiwanese favor their de facto independence and democratic status.
US law requires it to consider threats to the island as matters of “grave concern,” and American and allied forces are expected to be a major factor in any conflict.
In 1st 2025 catechism lesson, Pope says anyone who exploits or abuses a child answers to God
ROME—Pope Francis on Wednesday denounced the “scourge” of child labor and other abuses suffered by children, saying anyone who harms or exploits a child will have to answer to God.
Francis dedicated his first catechism lesson of 2025 to the plight of children, telling his weekly general audience that the faithful cannot remain indifferent to the problem of child labor.
“Children occupy a privileged place in God’s heart, and whoever harms them will be accountable to him,” he said.
Francis has frequently decried child labor, especially during his foreign trips. During his 2023 visit to Congo, he denounced how foreign powers and mining interests used children to extract Congo’s precious natural resources, saying they were plundering the continent for the “poison of their own greed.”
“Let us think how many children are dying because of hunger, catastrophes, diseases and wars,” he said on Wednesday.
“We must firmly prevent and condemn any abuse that minors may suffer.”
Francis didn’t refer explicitly to the sexual abuse of children by priests, a scandal that has convulsed the Catholic Church for decades.
The 88-year-old pope sounded congested throughout the audience and skipped about half his prepared text. However, he seemed entertained by a performance by an African-themed circus troupe, CircAfrica. The group, which has been performing in Rome, brought acrobats, robot-operated puppet elephants, jugglers and dancers on roller skates to perform for the pope in the Vatican auditorium. AP
Leader of Japanese crime syndicate pleads guilty to conspiring to traffic nuclear materials to Iran
NEW YORK—The purported leader of a Japan-based crime syndicate pleaded guilty Wednesday to charges alleging that he conspired to traffic uranium and plutonium from Myanmar in the belief that Iran would use it for nuclear weapons.
Takeshi Ebisawa, 60, of Japan, entered the plea in Manhattan federal court to weapons and narcotics trafficking charges that carry a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and the possibility of life behind bars. Sentencing was set for April 9.
Prosecutors say Ebisawa didn’t know he was communicating in 2021 and 2022 with a confidential source for the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the source’s associate, who posed as an Iranian general. Ebisawa was arrested in April 2022 in Manhattan during a DEA sting.
DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said in a release that the prosecution demonstrated the DEA’s
“unparalleled ability to dismantle the world’s most dangerous criminal networks.”
She said the investigation “exposed the shocking depths of international organized crime from trafficking nuclear materials to fueling the narcotics trade and arming violent insurgents.”
Acting US Attorney Edward Y. Kim said Ebisawa admitted at his plea that he “brazenly trafficked nuclear material, including weapons-grade plutonium, out of Burma.”
“At the same time, he worked to send massive quantities of heroin and methamphetamine to the United States in exchange for heavy-duty weaponry such as surface-to-air missiles to be used on battlefields in Burma,” he added.
Court papers said Ebisawa told the DEA’s confidential source in 2020 that he had access to a large quantity of nuclear materials that he wanted to sell. To support his
claim, he sent the source photographs depicting rocky substances with Geiger counters measuring radiation, claiming they contained thorium and uranium, the papers said.
The nuclear material came from an unidentified leader of an “ethnic insurgent group” in Myanmar who had been mining uranium in the country, prosecutors said. Ebisawa had proposed that the leader sell uranium through him in order to fund a weapons purchase from the general, court documents allege. Prosecutors said samples of the alleged nuclear materials were obtained and a US federal lab found they contained uranium, thorium and plutonium, and that the “the isotope composition of the plutonium” was weapons-grade, meaning enough of it would be suitable for use in a nuclear weapon.
An e-mail seeking comment was sent to Ebisawa’s attorneys. AP
TWO Kuang Hua VI-class missile boats are seen during a simulated attack drill off Kaohsiung City, southern Taiwan on Thursday, January 9, 2025. AP/CHIANG YING-YING
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Trump, the ‘America First’ candidate, has new preoccupation: Imperialism
NBy Jill Colvin & Rob Gillies
The Associated Press
EW
YORK—Donald Trump ran on a return to his “America First” foreign policy platform. The US, he said, could no longer afford to be the world’s policeman. On his watch, he pledged, there would be no new wars.
But since winning a second term, the president-elect has been embracing a new imperialist agenda, threatening to seize the Panama Canal and Greenland—perhaps by military force—and saying he will use economic coercion to pressure Canada to become the nation’s 51st state.
“Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better for national security,” Trump said of the world’s longest international border and the
US’s second-largest trade partner.
Such talk of undermining sovereign borders and using military force against allies and fellow NATO members—even if said lightly—marks a stunning departure from decades-old norms about territorial integrity. And it is rhetoric that analysts say could embolden America’s enemies by suggesting the US is now OK with countries using force to redraw borders at a time when Russia is pressing forward with its invasion of Ukraine and China is threatening Taiwan, which it claims as its own territory.
“If I’m Vladimir Putin or Xi Jinping, this is music to my ears,” said John Bolton, Trump’s former national security adviser-turned-critic, who also served as ambassador to the United Nations.
Trump’s language, reflecting a 19th century world view that defined European colonial powers, comes as international allies were already grappling with the implications
of his return to the world stage.
Gerald Butts, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s former top adviser and a longtime close friend, said Trump seems more emboldened than when he first took office in 2017.
“I think he’s feeling a lot less unencumbered than he was the last time. There are no restraints. This is maximum Trump,” he said.
Butts is part of a WhatsApp group with others who staffed heads of state and government during the first Trump term. “Someone joked that the big fear the last time was that he didn’t know what he was doing and the big fear this time is that he does,” he recounted.
Trump’s swaggering rhetoric also marks a continuation of the kind of testosteroneheavy energy that was a signature of his campaign, particularly as he worked to win over younger male voters with appearances on popular podcasts.
Charlie Kirk, a key Trump ally who joined
Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., on a trip to Greenland this week, argued on his podcast Wednesday that it was imperative for the US to control Greenland. The island is an autonomous territory of Denmark, a longtime US ally and a founding NATO member.
Beyond the country’s strategic location in the Arctic and its rich resources, Kirk said, “there is this other component. It makes America dream again, that we’re not just this sad, low-testosterone, beta male slouching in our chair, allowing the world to run over us.”
“It is the resurrection of masculine American energy. It is the return of Manifest Destiny,” said Kirk, whose Turning Point group helped with Trump’s get-out-the-vote effort.
Trump allies have long argued that his bluster and most audacious statements are all part of his complex negotiating tactics.
Aides note that nearly half of US shipping containers travel through the Panama Canal and that key canal ports are controlled by a
Hong Kong–based firm.
Greenland is home to the Pituffik Space Base, the northernmost US post, which plays a key role in missile warnings and space surveillance. And China and Russia have been making their own investments in the Arctic at a time when new potential shipping routes are opening as ice caps melt.
Canada, Trump’s team notes, spends far less on defense than its southern neighbor.
“Every decision President Trump makes is in the best interest of the United States and the American people. That’s why President Trump has called attention to legitimate national security and economic concerns regarding Canada, Greenland and Panama,” said Trump-Vance Transition spokesperson Karoline Leavitt.
But Michael McFaul, the Obama-era ambassador to Russia who now serves as director of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University
and a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, said Trump’s language is counterproductive to US national security interests.
“President Trump is about to take over at one of the most dangerous times in American history,” he said. “We will be best at addressing those threats with allies. Allies are our superpower. And so I wish he would focus on the real threats and not invent threats.”
Trump’s trolling is not the negotiating ploy of “crazy genius,” he said, and will have consequences.
“We’ve got serious enemies and adversaries in the world, and we’re better off with the Canadians and the Danes with us than pissed off with us,” he said. Indeed, Canadian officials have responded with increasing anger.
Gillies reported from Toronto. Associated Press writer Juan Zamorano in Panama City contributed to this report.
Inflation’s painful bite: How Filipinos struggle to make ends meet
TH e recent report from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) highlighting a December 2024 inflation rate of 2.9 percent and an average of 3.2 percent for the year underscores a growing economic concern for many Filipinos. As the value of the peso diminishes, households are increasingly feeling the pinch, prompting many to reassess their financial strategies and livelihoods. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Costly goods seen spurring search for gigs, better jobs,” January 8, 2025).
Economists warn that the acceleration in inflation is not merely a statistic but a pressing reality that forces Filipinos to tighten their belts. The staggering revelation that a P100 now holds the purchasing power of only P79 from 2018 is a stark illustration of how inflation erodes real income. This situation compels many to seek additional sources of income or better job opportunities to stave off poverty, particularly among middle-income households, which are particularly vulnerable in this economic climate.
Ateneo de Manila University economist Leonardo Lanzona aptly points out the relationship between rising poverty and underemployment. As real incomes fall, the quest for secondary jobs becomes not just a matter of choice, but a necessity for survival. The notion that underemployment is solely linked to low-quality jobs overlooks the broader economic context where individuals are simply trying to make ends meet in an increasingly expensive environment.
Union Bank Chief Economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion emphasizes the critical need for policy interventions aimed at stabilizing inflation, particularly regarding food prices—a sector that significantly impacts the Consumer Price Index (CPI). With food accounting for nearly 35 percent of the CPI, the stakes are high.
The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) has been proactive in monitoring real wages, which rose despite the inflationary pressures. However, Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon warns that the increase in real wages does not necessarily translate to enhanced purchasing power, as consumer preferences shift towards higher-quality goods that often come at a premium. This shift can create a perception of insufficient income, even in the face of nominal wage increases.
While there are glimmers of hope—such as the anticipated negative inflation in rice prices due to increased imports—these must be viewed within a broader context. The surge in rice inflation experienced by the poorest households last year is a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by those at the bottom of the economic ladder. Data indicating that rice inflation reached 24.8 percent for the poorest Filipinos is a distressing signal that cannot be ignored.
Despite government assurances that inflation remains within target ranges, the reality on the ground tells a different story. While Neda and the BSP maintain that their strategies are effective, the lived experiences of our countrymen suggest a disconnect between policy and everyday hardship.
As the Philippines faces a difficult economic environment, it is essential for policymakers to find a balance between ensuring economic stability and meeting the immediate needs of the population. Ensuring that inflation remains manageable while fostering job creation and improving real wages must be a priority. The resilience of the Filipino people is commendable, but it is the responsibility of the government to create an environment where hard work translates into genuine economic security for all citizens.
BusinessMirror
Sea of maroons in UAAP and Traslacion of Black Nazarene
TDennis Gorecho
Kuwentong Peyups
He color maroon dominates my social media page usually during the last quarter of the year because of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) games. It is followed by another maroon event in January: the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene.
The varsity team of the University of the Philippines (UP) is called the UP Fighting Maroons. UP’s teams were initially called Maroon and Greens in the 1920s when UP was still a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), then it became UP Parrots due to its mascot. Sometime in the 1990s, the new moniker revived the old name Maroons, and the adjective “fighting” was added to describe the kind of spirit that the varsity teams of UP have when they participate in the arena of competitive sports.
UP reclaimed on December 15, 2024 the championship in the Men’s Basketball division after they defeated De La Salle University (DLSU), 66-62, in Game 3 of the Season 87 Finals in front of a record-breaking 25,248 fans at the Araneta Coliseum.
This is UP’s fourth UAAP title since 1938 as one of the UAAP founding members, with its first title in 1939 (Season 2), then in 1986 (Season 49), then its third title in 2022 (Season
84), then in 2024 (Season 87).
The venues were filled with fans wearing maroon shirts with “UPFight” battle cry reverberating throughout the games.
Millions of devotees dressed in maroon walk barefoot during the Traslacion held every 9th of January, a symbolic gesture that emulates Christ’s suffering as he was carrying his cross en route to his crucifixion in Golgotha.
In 2024, I was able to personally witness for the first time the Traslacion, which in Spanish means “passage” or “moving something from one place to another.”
The Traslacion is a re-enactment of the “solemn transfer” from Intramuros to Quiapo Church of the Black Nazarene’s replica, which was brought to the Philippines in 1606.
The image is garbed in elegant velvet maroon robes, embroidered with floral and plant motif in goldcolored threads, accented with lace trimmings on its collar and cuffs.
In 1608, the icon was enshrined
at the Recollect church of San Nicolás de Tolentino in the walled city of Intramuros. It was moved to the Saint John the Baptist Church (now known as the Quiapo Church) on January 9, 1787.
Last year’s Traslacion took almost 15 hours after it started at around 5 a.m. from Quirino Grandstand. The procession then passed through the narrow streets of Manila’s San Miguel and Quiapo districts before ending at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno at 7:45 p.m.
A feature of Traslacion is the “Dungaw” or “La Mirata” ritual, which is the historic practice of the San Sebastian and Quiapo churches, the Black Nazarene meets the image of Nuestra Señora del Carmen de San Sebastian. The 2012 Traslacion was the longest in recorded history as it ended 22 hours after leaving the Quirino Grandstand. The Black Nazarene arrived at Plaza Miranda around 5:15 o’clock the next morning.
From 2021 to 2023, the traditional Traslacion was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Large crowds donned in predominantly maroon and yellow shirts waved white towels in the air as they forcefully gathered towards the carriage called “andas” as it crawled through the generally narrow roads of the city.
Many devotees join the processions as part of their “panata” (vow), which is usually carried out as a plea to God or as thanksgiving for healing, blessing, or granting of/granted wish.
The statue is believed to have
magical and healing powers that can heal illnesses and grant miracles. Devotees believe that walking barefoot, wiping the image with the towels, holding and pulling the ropes of the andas, and even climbing the carriage, will get them closer to achieving their prayers.
Devotees vie to touch the Kanang Balikat, or the rope to the side of the image’s right shoulder due to the belief that it possesses great sanctity as holding it is closer to imitating the image bearing the Cross. Devotees use physical force to aggressively touch the image mounted on the carriage andas.
Filipino Catholics are known for having sincere, enormous, and extreme expressions of piety considering that the country has the third-largest Catholic population in the world.
The fervent devotion and faith shown by devotees became a prime manifestation of the fusion of Catholic and secular beliefs and practices of Filipinos.
Filipinos are “visual” people when it comes to faith and history. They like to tell stories by acting them out in the form of mass gatherings like processions.
I remember my father attending the annual Traslacion until he stopped when he was diagnosed with diabetes. It would be dangerous for him to walk barefoot like the other devotees because of the risk of wounds.
I wore a UP maroon shirt and a UPFight headband during the Traslacion to pray for the successful UAAP season for UP.
Viva Senyor Jesus Nazareno!
Japan’s base pay rises most in 32 years, helping rate hike path
By Erica Yokoyama
Lyn B. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace Angel R. Calso, Dionisio L. Pelayo
Ruben M. Cruz Jr.
Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes
D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa Rolando M. Manangan
BusinessMirror is published daily by the Philippine Business Daily Mirror Publishing, Inc., with offices on the 3rd floor of Dominga Building III 2113 Chino Roces Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Makati City, Philippines. Tel. Nos. (Editorial) 817-9467; 813-0725. Fax line: 813-7025. (Advertising Sales) 893-2019; 817-1351, 817-2807. (Circulation) 893-1662; 814-0134 to 36. E-mail: news.businessmirror@gmail.com www.news.businessmirror@gmail.com
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workers’ base salaries grew the most in 32 years, offering potential support for the central bank to raise rates this month if other data back up the thesis that a positive economic cycle is strengthening.
Base salaries increased by 2.7 percent in November from a year ago to drive up nominal wages by 3 percent, the labor ministry reported Thursday. Economists had expected nominal pay to rise 2.7 percent. A more stable measure of wage trends watched by the central bank that avoids sampling problems and excludes bonuses and overtime showed wages for full-time workers gained 2.8 percent, remaining at or above 2 percent for 15 months.
The yen strengthened slightly against the dollar following the report, gaining up to 158.10.
In a more discouraging sign, real cash earnings dropped 0.3 percent from a year earlier, extending the streak of declines to four months. Stagnation in real wages was partly
driven by inflation outpacing pay growth, as price gains strengthened in November after the government halted subsidies for utility bills, pushing up energy costs.
The steady wage trend may refuel speculation over a near-term rate hike from the Bank of Japan, including in the upcoming policy decision meeting this month. Since Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda gave dovish comments at the postDecember meeting press conference, market participants’ views have tilted toward expecting the next policy change to come later.
“Today’s data doesn’t necessarily indicate the wage trend has improved dramatically,” said Yuya Kikkawa, an economist at Meiji Yasuda Research Institute. “Still, the BOJ could hike
if there is additional positive information, for example from branch managers’ hearings.”
The central bank is scheduled to release its latest regional economic report following its branch managers meeting later Thursday, and Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino is set to give a speech to local business leaders in Yokohama next week.
Last month Ueda said that he would like to see more data before making further tightening steps, including signs of sustained wage growth. That has drawn attention to the latest data on pay, as the country heads toward the annual spring wage negotiations.
“A surprisingly strong rise in labor cash earnings in November will likely increase the Bank of Japan’s confidence that wages are bolstering consumer price trends toward securing its 2 percent target,” said Bloomberg economist Taro Kimura.
Last year the BOJ conducted its first rate hike in 17 years in March, shortly after the nation’s largest trade union federation Rengo announced that its members had se-
cured the highest wage increases in over three decades.
This year, Rengo plans to release its initial tally on March 14, five days before the BOJ’s policy meeting results for that month. Rengo is aiming for at least a 5 percent wage increase across all companies, with a slightly higher 6 percent target for small and medium-sized enterprises.
“We are expecting this year’s spring wage negotiations to conclude at somewhere around 5 percent, not much of a slowdown from last year’s 5.1 percent,” said Meiji Yasuda’s Kikkawa. “Labor shortages will likely sustain pay momentum.”
Ueda also indicated in December that the momentum of wage negotiations could become apparent even before Rengo’s official tally in March. There are already some promising signs from individual companies, including retail giant Aeon Co. and insurer Nippon Life Insurance
Easy entry in vote to replace Trudeau sparks meddling fears
CBy Thomas Seal, Laura Dhillon Kane & Mathieu Dion
AnAdA’S ruling Liberal Party is reviewing how it picks its next leader, set to be the next prime minister, after Justin Trudeau announced Monday he plans to resign.
It’s facing concerns the contest is too open to foreign interference.
The current rulebook sets out a vote with almost no bars to entry.
To join the Liberal Party you don’t need to be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or even pay an entry fee. You just need to be 14 or older, live in Canada, and state you support the Liberals without supporting another party.
That’s ringing alarm bells after an official inquiry called the Hogue Commission found evidence of foreign interference from China and other countries in recent Canadian elections. It hasn’t yet published its final report, due by January 31. But heading into an all-day meeting Wednesday to discuss the contest rules, several Liberal lawmakers voiced support for restricting the vote to permanent residents and citizens.
“Knowing what we know now— I’m not sure exactly what’s going to be in the Hogue report coming out —but those are some of the vulnerabilities that we can address right now to ensure and give confidence to Canadians,” said West Vancouver representative Patrick Weiler. It’s harder to implement a membership fee, but it will be discussed, he said. Toronto lawmaker Judy Sgro said “a lot of us” are concerned about reports of foreign interference.
The Liberal Party board is holding meetings this week to discuss the race, but establishing the rules “will take some time,” party communications director Parker Lund said by e-mail. He added: “Protecting the integrity of our democratic process is a foremost priority for the party, and we look forward to providing more details about the leadership process once the rules have been set.”
Speaking to reporters after Wednesday’s caucus meeting, Canada’s energy minister and leadership hopeful Jonathan Wilkinson said Liberals discussed membership, timing, and the threshold of money that potential candidates would need to raise. He also said the board would unveil rules “over the coming days.”
Taleeb Noormohamed, another member of parliament for Vancouver, said caucus discussed concerns about the race being secure, and the membership of non-citizens and non-permanent residents.
The Conservative Party requires permanent residency or citizenship and asks for financial contributions. You must be a citizen and aged 18 or above to vote in a federal election.
Trudeau’s impact
TRuDe Au decisively won the leadership in 2013 after the party threw open the doors for non-paying “supporters” to vote, and hundreds of thousands of people joined. More than 100,000 cast ballots in the leadership vote.
Trudeau dramatically ramped up immigration to Canada, and there are currently more than three mil-
Japan.
. . continued from A14
ket is also likely to keep pressure on companies to continue raising wages to attract and retain talent. Still, unlike large corporations who are remaining relatively optimistic, smaller firms are increasingly voicing concerns about the feasibility of sustained wage hikes. In 2024, over 50 percent of SMes said they gave up raising salaries, with many citing challenges in passing on costs to customers and weak profit outlooks, according to a survey conducted by the Shinkin Central Bank Research In-
Owning futurism
Alion non-permanent residents in the country. As things stand, they would also be eligible to vote for his replacement, if they’ve registered in time.
Liberal Party rules currently say that would-be voters in the leadership race must already be registered with the party 41 days before the poll.
That “cooling off” period might reduce the number of last-minute joiners hoping to sway the contest —but Trudeau’s leadership has been publicly in question for months, so those who want a say in his replacement have already had plenty of time to join.
“They need this race to be focused and fast,” said political consultant Scott Reid, previously head of communications for Liberal prime minister Paul Martin.
The Liberals should charge a high entry fee to discourage marginal candidates and infiltrators, mandate that voters are Canadian citizens, and have a very short sign-up period, he said.
“You have to be sensitive to the potential for foreign interference,” he said. The race “will be targeted by interest groups, by foreign agitant governments, possibly others who will want to make mischief and, you know, effectively try to take over a party.”
Accelerated process
THe last time the Liberals rejigged their rules and picked a leader, they took almost two years—from Michael Ignatieff’s resignation in May 2011 to the election of Trudeau in April 2013.
Despite pressure to get the process right, they nonetheless need to move much faster now.
They need a leader to fight a federal election which could start soon after lawmakers return to Parliament on March 24. And they face Donald Trump entering the White House on Jan. 20. He’s already mocking Canada and Trudeau and threatening “economic force,” including 25% tariffs on all Canadian goods.
Alongside his resignation, Trudeau successfully requested the prorogation of parliament, effectively pausing its activity. That temporarily blocks rival parties from voting no confidence in the government and triggering a national election —which they have said they will do. But even with that breathing room, the Liberal Party needs to accelerate. Current rules imply a 90-day minimum contest—though include a clause allowing the party executive to change the vote date and “alter any arrangements already made,” if political circumstances require.
If it officially started this week —and it will likely start later—90 days would take it to April 8 or 9, after Parliament returns with the threat of toppling the government. With assistance from Brian Platt and Erik Hertzberg /Bloomberg
stitute during the peak of wage talks. The government has also ramped up its calls for wage increases, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reaffirming in a new year speech his commitment to achieving economic growth through pay gains and increased investment. Ishiba also reiterated his goal of raising Japan’s minimum hourly wage to ¥1,500 ($9.49) within the next five years, which would require an increase of more than 7 percent per year. The minimum wage currently stands at ¥1,055, following a recent adjustment in August, with the changes reflected from October payrolls. Bloomberg
Tito Genova Valiente annoTaTions
T the end of 2024, articles came out that were half-threat and half-truth, the latter couched in the form of a forecast: the Age of Singularity is here. I must admit my knowledge of singularity came via short articles that had doomsday complexion around them—something non-human is taking over the all-too human enterprise. This “something” is artificial, an opposition to nature, that which we deem “natural,” an aspect we have always accepted as part of our being.
Scientists will, I imagine, bristle at my response to this development, positing that civilization is always an upward spiral movement to improvement that, in the end, will ultimately benefit the human group. In fact, to push this conversation, one scientific report bravely promises that decades from now, we shall be spared from all forms of aging!
What to do with my anxiety, which, I assume, shall be the unfounded fear as well of a majority of human beings? In my case, I scrambled to look for the simplest of explanations.
What is this singularity? First, it is called a “technical singularity” with technology at the core of the future. Broadly speaking, the growth fueled by technology and not by the arts or some such golden attributes of human civilization is seen as both out of control and irreversible.
neurosis) has made predictions that were described as outrageous. For all the negative connotations that Kurzweil brings to his ideas, it cannot be denied now that his thoughts have
ture, there is an aspect of technological singularity, a concept attributed to John von Neumann, that speaks of superintelligence.
Assuming we already have intelligence (is this difficult to presuppose?), to imagine the arrival of superintelligence among our leaders is by far scarier than anything at all imagined by Neumann, a physicist of Hungarian descent who worked on the Manhattan Project, which developed the first nuclear weapons.
What to do with an ability that exceeds the present mind? This is the kind of mind that has spawned our Congress and Senate, including the local government units. As it is, there is too much already of this superintelligence that not even the brightest minds in our Supreme Court struggles to keep pace with it.
This mind has produced lawyers each year that form the pool for fu-
How do we respond to Ray Kurzweil whose succinct predictions can be summarized as the time when machines will be smarter and think better and faster than humans? This futurist who has been dubbed the “Nostradamus for the Digital Age” (there lies the bed of our collective
become part of mainstream science and technology.
On a more practical term, how will the other effects of singularity impact on the Filipino societies? What fruits of this undeniably human labor will bear upon our smaller human groups? With due respect to our own cul-
ture lawyers. So, you see Futurism has been redefined by our own intellectuals and people. The legalese has remained to be the foundation for peace and order, eschewing the language of morality that refuses to be legalistic. More than ever, what is legal is not necessarily moral and what is moral is not always the wellspring
of order and harmony in societies. We can find solace in what Alan Turing, the so-called father of modern computer science, proposed in the 1950s about the ability of the machine in the future to demonstrate intelligence that will be difficult for us to distinguish from the skills of humans. That solace, however, should be bracketed. How to implicate the lack or even absence of distinction between the machine and human in a working Philippine organization? The resulting social landscape is nothing but dismal. Overnight, corruptions shall be attributable to thinking machines. even the powerful Church will be tasked to imagine how to face up to a technology that has ceased to be merely computing but has gone up to the level of the cognition, beyond the zone of merely recognizing.
I remember what the irrepressible F. Sionil Jose once said about us critics, and this he blurted while I served as his cane as we left the judging area of the very first Sinag Maynila Film Festival of Wilson Tieng’s Solar Films: “You, critics, are Romantic! You are hopeless!” To this, I asked: “What about you, Manong Frankie?”
“Well, I am Romantic, too.” The point of all this is that singularity is already scaring the wits out of me. And yet the consolation, at this point, is that the only technology exhibiting an ever-evolving, wildly uncontrollable, giddily competitive machine is Karaoke. Literally, an empty (kara) orchestra (oke), this device, while articulated by the Japanese and, as claimed, invented by a Pinoy, is our humble, simple, pure version of singularity. The echo chamber that will render flat tones gorgeous is negotiable.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
Trump allies fret tax-cut plans at risk with GOP infighting
By Nancy Cook, Steven T. Dennis & Billy House
AfACTIon of President-elect donald Trump’s allies is harboring doubts about Republicans’ chances of passing a sweeping tax bill in 2025 amid party infighting and strategy disputes.
Republicans broadly agree that there’s little room for error on what is a rare opportunity for the GOP to update the tax code without having to make any concessions to Democrats. There’s also time pressure: households and privately-held businesses will see their tax bills rise if Congress doesn’t act by the end of the year.
But Republicans openly disagree on how to meet that deadline. Little progress was made on Wednesday night when Trump met with GOP Senators, with the president-elect telling reporters at the conclusion of the meeting that it “doesn’t matter” to him how his allies in Congress plan to get his top legislative achievements passed.
Stephen Miller, the incoming deputy White House chief-of-staff and a vocal advocate for an immigration crackdown, has pushed lawmakers to first pursue a border security bill, before pivoting to taxes, an idea Senate Republican Majority Leader John Thune endorsed during his address to open the new Congress.
That pits them against House Republicans, many of whom want to cram all the party’s legislative goals—immigration, energy production and taxes—into a singular bill. That’s an approach that yields to the reality that the tiny House GOP majority—a fractious group of lawmakers willing to torch members of their own party during heated disputes—will have a hard time passing even one bill, let alone two.
“The best chance for a reconciliation bill that includes tax cuts to pass the House is for the tax cuts to be included in the first one, and preferably in one big beautiful bill,” said House Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, referring to the legislative process, known as recon-
ciliation, which allows the majority party to advance its priorities with the votes of the opposing party. Trump, who made taxes and an immigration crackdown the centerpiece of his 2024 presidential campaign, has waffled on his wishes, further muddying the debate. Over the weekend, he posted that he supported “one powerful Bill that will bring our Country back, and make it greater than ever before.” At a press conference on Tuesday, however, he indicated a willingness to separate immigration from taxes.
“Well, I like one big beautiful bill. I always have. I always will. But if two is more certain, it does go a little bit quicker, because you can do the immigration stuff early,” he told reporters.
Senator Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, said following Wednesday’s meeting with Trump that they discussed using tariff hikes as a way to offset the cost of the tax cuts, a politically risky move that could further divide Republicans.
Thune, after meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday, joked with reporters that the plan for sequencing the legislation is “as clear as mud.” After the Wednesday meeting with Trump, Thune told reporters they are all united on the goals but lawmakers still have different views on the legislative strategy to get there.
Strategy planning
CONGR eSS also must raise the debt ceiling this year—an issue that has routinely caused Republican infighting and soured relationships within the party. Johnson told reporters Tuesday he plans to add a debt ceiling increase to the bill, with the final product put together by “churning
Senator Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, said following Wednesday’s meeting with Trump that they discussed using tariff hikes as a way to offset the cost of the tax cuts, a politically risky move that could further divide Republicans.
it out amongst our colleagues.” He also set an April goal to pass it out of his chamber.
Paul, however, said Wednesday there’s opposition from Republicans in both chambers to addressing the debt ceiling in the bill.
“We need to do the tax bill in the first 150 days,” said Steve Moore, an informal economic adviser to Trump.
Moore said that he, along with Trump’s former National economic Council Chair Larry Kudlow and economist Arthur Laffer, urged Trump to tackle taxes first.
“We shouted from the rooftops,” Moore said. “The argument made to Trump that carried the day was that delaying it would put the tax cut at risk.” The business community has also warned that a delay—or failure—of the tax measure could stymie the economic growth promises Republicans ran on.
“I’m not going to second guess the speaker or the majority leader on the timing of the tax bill, but I will say that from a business perspective, from an investment perspective, a manufacturing perspective, sooner is going to be a whole lot better than later if they truly want to keep their promises that they’ve made,” said Jay Timmons, president and chief executive officer of the National Association of Manufacturers.
Many Republicans also publicly and privately worry that isolating immigration—an issue that has vexed Congress for decades—into an initial bill will take far more time than anticipated and eat up a great amount of political capital and good will, potentially jeopardizing the size, scope and ambition of a tax measure.
History lesson IN 2017, Trump faced a similar legislative strategy quandary on the sequencing of policy when his team spent months trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act only to have thenSenator John McCain, an Arizona Republican, strike down the bill at the last minute. The Trump White House managed to barely pass tax reform that December—and that was with a much larger margin of Republicans in the House. That legislation was also hastily written, and passed solely with the support of Republicans. At the time, there was a feeling in the Trump orbit that tackling infrastructure or taxes first would have provided the new president with far more political dividends than pursuing the failed health care legislation.
In the closing days of the 2024 election, Trump promised to extend the personal tax cuts from 2017 and expand the state and local tax deduction, while also creating new tax breaks like no taxes on tips, overtime pay or Social Security checks. Trump has vowed to Wall Street executives that he would reduce the corporate tax rate to as low as 15%. That laundry list of promises surprised even some of his closest economic advisers, who privately said Trump was unlikely to turn all of this rhetoric into reality. Though Trump, as recently as last weekend, has repeatedly singled out one specific pledge—no taxes on tips —which suggests it could be among the highest priority cuts for the incoming president.
Political calculus FOR Republicans, a key calculation is delivering on Trump’s tax promises so the party can hold onto its control of the House of Representatives in 2026. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, a close Trump ally, said history shows that Trump needs to pass the tax bill by July 4, 2025, to satisfy voters. With assistance from Alicia Diaz / Bloomberg
January 10, 2025
Illicit tobacco trade, vapor fraud spell ₧240-B tax loss
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE rampant illicit tobacco trade and misdeclaration of vapor products are projected to cost the government P240.3 billion in excise tax leakages over the next three years.
Data from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), as estimated by the OSSTG Ways and Means Committee, showed the government will lose P171.95 billion and P5.94 billion, respectively, due to the illicit trade of cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
The misdeclaration of vape products is also expected to impact collections, resulting in a P62.52 billion shortfall.
ed large-scale manufacturers of illicit cigarettes in the country.
Valera said illicit cigarettes are also blatantly sold on online shopping platforms, making them accessible to the public.
Customs Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip C. Maronilla said the Bureau of Customs (BOC) conducted 228 seizure operations of tobacco products and 90 seizures of vape products in 2024.
The value of the seized commodities is worth P9.194 billion, more than double the P3.823 billion worth of seized smuggled tobacco and vape products in 2023.
Greater health risks
A CCORDI n G to Assistant Secretary for h e alth Policy and Systems Development Kenneth Ronquillo, the added presence of illegal cigarettes and vape products in the market poses more significant health risks.
h e alth outcomes will not be as good as we have in the current,” Ronquillo said.
The implementation of excise tax measures already in force is recommended to be continued and strengthened.
THIN
SUPPLY SEEN BEHIND SPIKE IN RED ONION PRICES
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
Th I n s upply likely caused the spike in red onion prices, according to an official from the Department of Agriculture (DA).
Retail prices of red onions ranged from P100 to P180 per kilo in Metro Manila markets, based on the DA’s latest price monitoring report. This saw an increase from the P70 to P150 range from a month ago.
Agriculture Undersecretary Cheryl Marie n a tividad-Caballero said this could be affected by several factors.
monthly red onion consumption of 17,000 MT.
All of the country’s red onion stocks last year were locally produced owing to a bumper harvest, which prompted the agency to withhold any importation order for the crop.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the agency will build a command center by March to serve as a national database for agricultural commodities.
In the public hearing of the Senate’s Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, Dondanon Valera of Excise Large Taxpayers Service said the BIR has collected P134 billion in excise tax on tobacco products in 2024. This is lower by 27.68 percent than the P185.3-billion target collection for the year, thus resulting in a shortfall of P51.3 billion. One of the reasons for the decrease in excise tax collection “is the change in consumption pattern of smokers from using traditional tobacco or cigarettes to vape products. Another one is, of course, the illicit trade,” Valera said.
The illicit products were confiscated through warehouse raids, port seizures due to smuggling and open-sea apprehensions in the southern part of the Philippines, according to Maronilla.
The gradual increase in excise taxes over the years has likely created a greater incentive for smuggling, as smugglers can avoid paying higher taxes, Maronilla added.
Increasing seizures Th E B IR has conducted 141 enforcement activities against smuggled vape products and raid -
63% of Pinoy families rate themselves ‘poor,’ highest level since 2003
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
ABOUT 63 percent of Filipino families rated themselves as “poor” in December 2024, the highest level since 64 percent in n ov ember 2003, according to the Social Weather Survey (SWS) on Wednesday. This marked a four-point increase from 59 percent in September 2024, with an estimated 17.4 million families self-identifying as poor, up from 16.3 million in September.
The Self-Rated Poverty data also showed a rise for the third consecutive quarter last year, following a 12-point jump from March to June 2024. The annual average for 2024 was 57 percent, nine points higher than the 48 percent recorded in 2023 and 2022.
Borderline families, who consider themselves between poor and not poor, dropped to 11 percent, a slight decrease from 13 percent in September and 12 percent in June 2024, following a sharp decline from 30 percent in March. Meanwhile, 26 percent of families did not consider themselves poor, down from 28 percent in September and 30 percent in June.
Self-Rated Poverty was highest in Mindanao at 76 percent, followed by the Visayas at 74 percent, Balance Luzon at 55 percent, and Metro Manila at 51 percent.
In Mindanao, 9 percent were borderline, while 15 percent felt financially secure. Meanwhile, in Visayas, 15 percent were near-poor, and 11 percent con -
sidered themselves financially stable.
The Balance Luzon showed that 11 percent were borderline, while 34 percent felt financially comfortable. In Metro Manila, on the other hand, 9 percent were vulnerable to poverty and 40 percent were financially welloff.
Food poverty R E GARDI n G f ood poverty, 51 percent of families rated themselves as food-poor, 13 percent as food-borderline, and 36 percent as not food-poor.
The 51-percent mark was the highest in over 20 years and a five-point increase from 46 percent in September.
Self-Rated Food Poverty was highest in Mindanao at 68 percent, followed by the Visayas at 61 percent, Balance Luzon at 42 percent, and Metro Manila at 39 percent.
The survey also found that 10.2 percent of families who considered themselves poor were non-poor one to four years ago, while 7.6 percent were non-poor five or more years ago. About 44.7 percent, however, have never experienced being non-poor.
The median monthly family expenses were P3,000 for house rent, P2,000 for transportation, P1,000 for internet, and P300 for mobile phone load.
The survey was conducted from December 12 to 18 with 2,160 adults nationwide, using face-to-face interviews, and had sampling error margins of ±2 percent nationally, ±3 percent in Balance Luzon, and ±5 percent in Metro Manila, the Visayas and Mindanao.
“The higher the incentive for smuggling, the higher the product should be guarded against,” he added.
Lawmakers have advocated a moratorium to temporarily suspend the annual tax hikes on cigarettes and other tobacco products. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/01/09/solons-seekhalt-in-annual-tobacco-productstax-hike/).
Sin Tax Coalition denounced the move, saying that reducing tobacco taxes is a misaligned proposal.
“Cutting a few pesos per pack will not address illicit trade and will only make cigarettes more accessible to the poor and youth while forgoing billions in revenue, at a critical time that the economy is struggling to find fiscal space,” it said.
“It could be because demand was high, and supply was low; and it wasn’t harvest period yet,” Caballero told the BusinessMirror on Thursday, noting that the harvest periods for onion are February to April and August to December.
“The ones in cold storage may possibly be just being readied for release, since we were coming from the long holidays the past week,” she explained, speaking partly in Filipino.
Data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) showed the red onion inventory as of December 27 stood at 13,043 metric tons (MT). Government officials said the country has a
h e n oted that at a meeting DA hosted last week, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. ordered regulatory agencies such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) to coordinate with the command center.
“The Secretary ordered the regulatory [agencies] to coordinate with the command center to ensure that for this year, the regulatory offices know the production data and when it is necessary to import,” De Mesa told reporters in a recent interview.
“Timing is important, as well as the volume, and should be very predictive to avoid over- or under- importation, especially for the commodities that we have control of,” he added.
DOTr: Naia to rank among top revenue draws
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
Th E Department of Transportation (DOTr) said the n in oy Aquino International Airport ( n A IA) is now expected to become one of the government's major revenue-generating facilities after it achieved its record-breaking 50 million passenger volume s ince its privatization last year.
"As you know, this privatization will not only improve the experience of passengers by providing t hem with more comfortable and convenient [commuting experi -
ence], but at the same time, the g overnment will also earn high revenues from it," DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said in a television interview with state-run PTV o n Thursday.
San Miguel Corp.-led n e w n a ia Infra Corp. ( n n I C) took over the operation of n a ia from DOTr's Manila International Airport Authority (Miaa) in September as part of t he government's bid to rehabilitate the facility.
U nder its 15-year concession agreement to operate n a ia, nn I C remitted an initial P30 billion to the government in September.
It will then provide the government a P2-billion annual payment a nd an 82.16-percent revenue share for the national government, excluding passenger service c harges.
of the privatization,
THE HARDEST JOB Sweat, pain, exhaustion combine to make this the hardest job for the day: seven of the men designated to help keep devotees from boarding the “Andas” or carriage bearing the Black Nazarene manage with their tasks at Thursday’s Feast of the Black Nazarene. NONIE REYES
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Iloilo port project of ICTSI gets fiscal perks from govt
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
The P2.35-billion Iloilo City
Seaport Modernization Project of Razon-led International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) is now entitled to perks under the Board of Investments (BOI), the investment promotion agency attached to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The BOI said it has issued the Certificate of Registration of ICTSI for the modernization, management, and operation of the Visayan Container Terminal (VCT).
Mary Ann Raganit, BOI Director for Infrastructure and Services Industries Service, told reporters in a Viber message that since the ICTSI VCT is a modernization project, it is entitled to: “3 years of Income Tax Holiday [ITH] followed by 5 years of Enhanced Deductions [ED] and
duty-free importation of equipment under CREATE Act.”
According to the BOI, this “landmark” project will transform the old Iloilo Commercial Port Complex (ICPC) into a state-of-the-art facility.
The project is part of a 25-year Port Terminal Management Contract between the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and ICTSI.
“This modernization effort will include investments in advanced
cargo handling equipment, cutting-edge information technology systems, and enhanced civil infrastructure, setting a new benchmark for service quality in the region,” the agency said in a statement.
BOI said the Iloilo port which was once lacking foreign container operations has undergone a “significant” transformation.
The investment promotion agency said the modernization efforts have focused on upgrading port facilities, expanding existing berths to accommodate large foreign vessels and boost cargo capacity.
Further enhancing the port’s capabilities, BOI said in a statement, is the deployment of Mobile Harbor Cranes (MHCs) with a reach of 46 meters and a lifting capacity of 100 tons.
“This innovation significantly enhances the port’s flexibility, efficiency, and capacity to handle various cargo types, including containerized, bulk, general, and project cargo.”
The modernized port is expected to generate over 3,000 jobs, directly and indirectly benefiting the region through a multiplier effect across related industries.
The BOI said the improved operational efficiency, expanded cargo handling capabilities, and enhanced connectivity “prom -
ise to attract new investments across Panay and neighboring areas.”
BOI Managing Head and Trade Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo said this project “underscores the government’s vision to modernize port operations and logistics services to improve the Philippines’ rank in the logistics performance index.”
Further, Rodolfo said this initiative is “vital” to national development as this will facilitate the movement of goods and people across the islands.
The Trade official said this will also help in strengthening the country’s position in international trade.
By encouraging private sector participation, BOI said the program seeks to provide “world-class” services and transform key Philippine ports into global trade hubs.
ICTSI, a leading global port operator, will oversee the project’s core services, which include infrastructure investment, port maintenance, container terminal management and passenger terminal operations, according to the BOI.
“With its advanced capabilities and robust infrastructure, the VCT project solidifies Iloilo’s role as a major trade and commerce hub in the Western Visayas region.”
Belle upbeat on PHL gaming market
By VG Cabuag @villygc
BE ll E C orp., which owns City of Dreams Manila and Tagaytay Highlands, said it is upbeat on the company’s growth prospects, and is bullish on the Philippine gaming market and its resilience despite industry headwinds.
Belle President and CEO Armin Antonio B. Raquel-Santos said Clark in Pampanga, where it plans to build a facility, is emerging as the next gaming and tourism hub of the country. Belle, the gaming-focused investment company which owns 98.26 percent of Premium l e isure Corp., applied for a gaming license from regulators last July 2024 to
develop an integrated resort in the former American air base. Raquel-Santos said Belle, through its gaming subsidiaries, continues to “explore and pursue related ventures and high-growth opportunities in the gaming space that will enhance shareholder value, while delivering its commitments to all stakeholders.”
For the nine months of 2024, Belle’s income fell 22 percent to P1.52 billion from the previous year’s P1.96 billion, due to the lower contribution of its gaming units. Belle recognized consolidated revenues of P4.1 billion, down by 5 percent from the previous year’s P4.3 billion.
Revenues from real estate operations rose by 10 percent to P2.2
NDC names new exec
FOll OWINg h is appointment by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Saturnino “Ning” H. Mejia was officially sworn in by Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque as the new g e neral Manager of the National Development Company (NDC). Prior to his appointment as g e neral Manager, Mejia served as the NDC’s Assistant g e neral Manager of the Special Projects group for 25 years. NDC is the investment arm of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
“He oversaw functions related to the development of new businesses in joint ventures with NDC via equity investments,” NDC said in a statement released on Thursday.
The Special Projects g r oup is responsible for project evaluation, due diligence and detailed analysis of the viability, technical feasibility, and economic and social desirability of various projects.
The state-owned investment arm under DTI also underscored Mejia’s “extensive experience” in joint ventures, corporate finance, project evaluation and management, feasibility studies, public-private partnerships, and macroeconomic analysis, which NDC said, helped
Ag RO UP o f Camp John Hay g o lf Course members has withdrawn their complaint against Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), signaling their willingness to build a partnership with the new management of the golf-estate in Baguio City, according to the state-run rim.
BCDA said a group of Camp John Hay g olf Course members has filed a motion to withdraw their case filed before the Baguio Regional Trial Court.
Following the recovery of the Camp John Hay g o lf Course in Baguio, the state-run firm said a new consortium formed by g ol fplus Management Inc., the operations team behind the driving ranges in premium estates Nuvali and Alviera, and DuckWorld PH, a sports management and marketing agency, has been tapped to assist the BCDA in managing the golf estate facilities for the interim period.
be “taken care of” by BCDA’s new interim partners, g o lfplus and DuckWorldPH.
“We are confident that their talented and skilled engineers, designers, and maintenance experts are more than capable of bringing world-class services and facilities to Camp John Hay g o lf Course.”
The state-run firm was able to regain control of Camp John Hay, including the golf course, in line with the Supreme Court resolution issued on October 22, 2024 which allowed BCDA to recover the 247-hectare property.
Aside from the g o lf Course, BCDA now gains control over other properties within the Camp John Hay, such as The Manor, The Forest l o dge, CAP Convention Center, Commander’s Cottage, open spaces, among others.
promote investments in areas such as renewable energy, industrial estate development, and health and technology innovations.
As to the educational background of Mejia, the NDC said he holds a Master of Science in Policy Science (Monbusho Scholarship grant) from the International graduate School of Policy Science, Saitama University, Japan, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Management Engineering degree from the Ateneo de Manila University. Based on its website, NDC is mandated to pursue commercial, industrial, agricultural or mining ventures to give the “necessary impetus” to national economic development.
It may on its own, or in joint venture with the private sector, undertake “vital” projects when necessary or when the private sector is not willing or able to undertake such projects due to high risks or lack of resources. Some of NDC’s most recent investments include the development of a Vaccine Manufacturing Facility, the Davao Food Terminal Complex and the development of the NDC Industrial Estate in Dasmariñas City, Cavite. Andrea E. San Juan
billion from P2 billion. Belle’s revenues from leasing the City of Dreams Manila to Melco Resorts and Entertainment (Philippines) Corp. contributed P1.74 billion, 16 percent higher than the previous P1.5 billion. Sale of real estate and revenue from property management at the Tagaytay Highlands complex contributed revenues of P464.2 million, some 7 percent lower than the previous P500.1 million.
Most of the company’s gaming revenues were down during the period. Its share from revenues of Premium l e isure fell 17 percent to P1.49 billion from P1.79 billion. Meanwhile, its share from Pacific Online Systems Corp. fell 21 percent to P398 million from P502.4 million the previous year., Premium l e isure owns 50.1 percent of Pacific Online, which through its 50 percentowned joint venture operation, Pinoy l o tto
Technologies Corp., leases online betting equipment to the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office for their lottery operations.
Belle, meanwhile, secured the silver award in the mid- and small-cap companies category at the 9th Asia Integrated Reporting Awards.
“Belle is proud to achieve its first-ever Asian award. This win is a manifestation of our strong commitment to transparent, balanced and accurate reporting. Our shareholders can expect us to continue to operate responsibly, serve our communities and create value,” Raquel-Santos said.
Regarded as one of the highest recognitions in integrated reporting, this award highlights how Belle, which has been publishing sustainability and integrated reports since 2018, included “decision-useful information on governance, strategy performance and its future prospects in reports.”
digiPlus: ArenaPlus will go to Brazil
Listed gaming firm d i giPlus i nteractive
Corp. is bringing its local online betting platform ArenaPlus to Brazil.
Celeste Jovenir, d giPlus vice president for investor relations, said the company is in the process of firming up its plans in time for the start of its operation in Brazil by the fourth quarter of this year.
“ArenaPlus will be the (gaming) vehicle (in Brazil).”
t h e ArenaPlus platform integrates free sports event streaming, sports betting, sports news, sports community and game betting and claims to be the largest legal sports betting platform in the Philippines.
t h e company said it offers one of the most comprehensive sports categories and betting options in the market, covering categories like slot, poker, casino, bingo, fishing and virtual game.
d i giPlus said recently its Brazil unit has secured a license from the government to operate sports betting and other online games in Latin America’s biggest country.
t h e company said only 10 percent of the total applicants received definitive authority from Brazil’s secretariat of awards and bets, which includes its unit d giPlus Brazil i nteractive Ltd.
“Brazil’s dynamic gaming landscape presents a pivotal milestone in d i giPlus’ global journey. We are bringing not just our innovative platforms and diverse gaming portfolio but also our unwavering commitment to responsible gaming.
By combining our proven platforms with localized insights, we are confident in our ability to resonate with Brazilian players and contribute to the country’s thriving iGaming sector,” e u sebio H. tan co, d i giPlus chairman, said. Last August 2024, d i giPlus filed an application for Licença Para Loterias d e A postas d e Quota Fixa, which is a federal license that allows the operations of land-based and online sports betting, electronic games, live game studios and other fixed-odds betting activities in Brazil.
On November 21, 2024, it passed the qualification stage for a federal license with Brazil’s Ministry of Finance’s s e cretariat of Awards and Bets. i t ha s 30 days to comply with the regulatory requirements.
On the same day, the d i giPlus board approved the initial funding of P660 million to pay for the license fees, minimum capitalization, financial reserves and other operational expenses as part of the post-qualification process of the awards committee.
“ t h is initial funding is intended for a threemonth horizon,” the company said.
With a population exceeding 200 million and great enthusiasm for sports betting, Brazil represents a significant growth opportunity for d i giPlus, the company said.
Brazil’s gaming market is estimated to hit $4 billion by 2029 from the current $2 billion as of last year, with growth expected to grow 15-20 percent in the next five years. VG Cabuag
BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang views the withdrawal of the case as a “positive step towards the smooth transition of the Camp John Hay g olf Course.”
With this, he assured the public that new and former players will continue to enjoy “premium” golf course services. Moreover, Bingcang said the workforce will
In December 2024, the Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP) g r oup expressed its intent to expand its presence in the region, particularly through investments in Camp John Hay and other strategic locations in Baguio and the Cordillera area.
“In helping BCDA, we commit to the preservation and enhancement of Camp John Hay’s legacy properties, and the care of their dedicated workforce. You are in good hands,” Pangilinan said. Andrea E. San Juan
Supreme Court ruling empowers ERC—exec
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said it welcomes the recent ruling of the Supreme Court (SC) affirming the agency’s authority to regulate the power generation and supply sectors.
While stakeholders in the generation and supply sectors are not public utilities, they remain subject to ERC regulation. “This by no means removes them from the ambit of governmental regulation,” the SC ruled, adding that Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (Epira)
“makes it apparent that adequate safeguards have been instituted to curb and altogether suppress any abuse or irregular activity by the generation and supply sectors.”
The ERC is the country’s sole regulator of the electric power industry. “The Commission remains firm in its commitment to uphold the mandates set forth by the Epira. Through the implementation of our stringent regulatory measures, we ensure that our regulated entities adhere to the law,” ERC Chairman and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta said in a statement. ERC rules, she added, are also meant to prevent abuse and irregularities. “With the Supreme Court’s affirmation, the ERC is further empowered to promote a balanced and transparent regulatory environment that puts premium on consumer protection, promotes
competition, and supports the sustainability of the Philippine energy sector.”
The Court also upheld the authority of the commission to issue and implement the guidelines for the Automatic Adjustment of g e neration Rate and System l o ss Rates by Distribution Utilities (Ag R A rules), which provide the methodology for distribution utilities (DUs) to arrive at their monthly generation rates.
The Court also recognized the ERC’s authority to order a staggered payment scheme to protect consumer interests, which SC said is well within the ambit of the Ag R A rules.
Finally, the Court upheld the authority of the commission to order the passing on of systems loss to consumers. The ERC said the SC observes that the Epira, specifically Section 43f, taken in conjunction with related provisions, provide sufficient ascertainable standards and well-defined parameters to allow the commission to determine the benefit of imposing systems loss charges not only to the DUs, but also to its end-users or customers.
Banking&Finance
SEC expands accredited administrators of PERA
By VG Cabuag @villygc
HE Securities and Exchange
TCommission has expanded the number of accredited Personal Equity and Retirement Accounts (PERA) administrators.
SEC Memorandum Circular (MC) 14 (Series of 2024) provides the guidelines on the accreditation requirements of PERA market participants. MC 14 expanded the categories of entities eligible to register as PERA administrators to include securities brokers, investment houses, and investment company advisers or fund managers.
In its meeting on December 18 last year, the SEC en banc approved application of stock broker DragonFi Securities as PERA administrator.
“We issued MC 14 last September, recognizing the potential of our pension system to broaden public participation in corporate value creation and strengthen the capital market,” SEC Chairman Emilio B. Aquino said.
“This approval is a significant step toward empowering Filipinos to secure their financial future while easing fiscal pressures on the government in the long run,” Aquino added.
The PERA is a voluntary retirement saving program available to
the public in addition to existing retirement benefits from the Social Security System, the Government Service Insurance System and employer-sponsored plans.
Established under Republic Act 9505 (PERA Act of 2008), the program offers contributors tax benefits not available in other retirement investment products, encouraging Filipinos to save for their future.
Under the guidelines, a PERA administrator must maintain a net worth of at least P100 million at all times; adopt and fully comply with a manual of corporate governance; provide a clear and sufficient organizational plan or structure of its personnel who will perform PERA administration functions; and possess adequate systems and technological capabilities, as well as the necessary technical expertise and personnel to administer all types of PERA investment products.
The PERA administrator must also have sufficient personnel who have undergone the requisite training prescribed or approved by the Commission to educate PERA contributors on the nature of a PERA and the requirements, risks and benefits of the investment product, among others.
Generosity as a strategy
AS I was pondering on what association strategy is worthwhile taking on for 2025, I was reminded of generosity as a core value.
As defined, generosity is the willingness to give freely of one’s time, resources, energy, or expertise without expecting anything in return. It is characterized by selflessness, an abundance mindset, and a desire to create positive impact for others. At its core, generosity is about contributing to the greater good, often with empathy and compassion.
In the context of associations, generosity as a strategy is about embedding a “mindset of giving” into the core of the organization’s operations and mission. It is not about superficial acts or short-term benevolence but creating long-term value by proactively sharing resources, expertise, and opportunities. Generosity in this regard is strategic because it aligns with the association’s goals of engagement, influence, and sustainability.
This approach has the potential to shift the perception of associations from being transactional service providers to indispensable collaborators and community leaders.
Generosity matters to associations in the following aspects.
1. Strengthens member loyalty. By giving more than expected, associations build trust and deeper emotional connections with members. Members who feel valued are more likely to renew their memberships and advocate for the association.
2. Builds resilience. Associations that prioritize generosity create robust networks and ecosystems. Shared resources and collaborations lead to stronger, more adaptable communities.
3. Amplifies impact. Generosity expands the association’s reach and relevance, allowing it to engage with broader audiences and tackle larger challenges.
4. Enhances reputation. Acts of goodwill elevate the association’s brand, making it a leader in its field and a preferred partner for stakeholders.
Some examples of generosity in action are:
n Knowledge accessibility. Offering free or open-access research reports, webinars, and educational resources to both members and non-members.
n Mentorship and sup-
BSP prodding GCash, Maya on subscription fee system
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE central bank is now more partial to a subscription fee instead of per transaction fees when sending funds via digital platforms, even prodding the two biggest digital payment operator to adopt a new system.
In a Rotary Club of Manila forum last Thursday, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said charging fees on a per transaction basis when undertaking online fund transfers “is the wrong model.”
Initially, the BSP wanted to bring down all the transaction fees between individuals to zero up to a certain threshold. Remolona said the central bank has not determined this threshold and that it has been opposed by banks.
port. Launching programs that connect experienced members with emerging professionals or underrepresented groups.
n Community engagement. Partnering with nonprofits or local organizations on initiatives that benefit society, such as sustainability projects or charitable campaigns.
n Flexibility in membership models. Providing tiered or subsidized membership options for those facing financial hardships.
A few challenges and how to overcome these are as follows:
1. Balancing generosity and revenue needs. Generosity must not undermine financial stability. Associations should focus on giving where it generates the most significant value and align acts of generosity with revenue-generation opportunities, such as sponsorships for free resources.
2. Changing mindsets. Shifting from a transactional to a generosity-focused approach may require cultural change. Leadership buy-in and clear communication about the strategic benefits of generosity are essential.
3. Measuring impact. It’s crucial to define metrics for success. Track outcomes such as member satisfaction, engagement rates, and community impact to demonstrate the value of generosity initiatives.
Adopting generosity as a strategy positions associations as leaders and changemakers. The generosity dividend is not just about goodwill; it’s about creating a ripple effect that benefits the association, its members, and the broader community. Generosity fosters a cycle of reciprocity: when associations give generously, they inspire loyalty, collaboration, and a shared commitment to collective success. Are you a generous association?
Octavio Peralta is founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” The views he expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror. E-mail: bobby@pcaae.org.
“The bank complains that if you do that, then all the guys who are above the threshold will just divide their transactions so that they fall within the threshold,” Remolona said. “But there’s a more fundamental issue. It’s not about the fees per transaction. I think that’s the wrong model.”
The fundamental issue, Remolona said, is the concern about network externalities which happens in payment systems when adding more participants.
THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has ruled to exempt from taxation the transfer of assets and the issuance and transfer of securities.
Signed by Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, Revenue Regulation (RR) 002-2025 implements the tax exemption provisions of Republic Act (RA) 9267 or the “Securitization Act of 2004.”
As such, the transfer of assets to Special Purpose Entities (SPEs), including the sale or transfer of any and all security interest, will be exempted from value-added tax (VAT) and documentary stamp tax (DST).
The transfer of assets by dation in payment (dacion en pago) by the obligor in favor of the obligee shall also not be subject to capital gains tax.
Meanwhile, the original issuance of asset-backed securities (ABS) and related securities, including seller’s equity and subordinated debt instruments pur-
THE cost of hedging Asian investments for dollar-funded investors is set to drop from a two-year high, a shift that could lead to reduced support for the region’s currencies.
A Bloomberg-compiled gauge of three-month hedging costs in Asia jumped at the end of the year to the highest since October 2022 due to dollar gains, discouraging hedged portfolio inflows into the region. That may change with hedging costs expected to decline this year due to signs US rates would stay elevated relative to Asia.
Hedged investment flows are less supportive of currencies compared with unhedged ones as the former involves shorting of local
chased by the originator, will be exempted from VAT but shall be subject to DST. Secondary trades and subsequent transfers of ABS, such as all forms of credit enhancement, shall also be exempted from DST and VAT.
Moreover, the regulation introduced tax exemptions for low-cost and socialized housing-related ABS.
The yield from ABS will be subject to a 20 percent final withholding tax, except for income from low-cost or socialized housing-related ABS, which is exempt from income tax.
“Such yield or income must come from the securitization of the mortgage and housing-related receivables of the government housing agencies,” the regulation stated.
The low-cost or socialized housingrelated ABS must be certified as such by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the Department of Finance. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
exchange rates.
“This increase in hedging costs is temporary, and should fall this year if the Federal Reserve doesn’t cut rates rapidly and doesn’t cut by a larger extent compared with Asia,” said Stephen Chiu, chief Asia FX and rates strategist at Bloomberg Intelligence in Hong Kong.
“This will offer cheaper hedging costs or even yield pickups for dollar-funded investors that have Asian-currency exposure.”
Hedging works like this: Dollarbased investors seeking to hedge their baht investments, for example, would typically short the baht while being long the greenback. This would then mean receiving dollar rates while paying
“If you look at the payment system, every time you add one more participant, that’s a cost. It’s a small cost, but that extra participant adds value to the whole system. You have a bigger network of participants. And so that’s what we call a ‘network externality,’” he explained.
Coined by Jeff Rohlfs at Bell Labs in 1974, a “network externality,” or network effect, refers to the idea that as users increase, so does the value of a product or service.
Remolona said the central bank intend to minimize these externalities by relying less on fees per transactions and shifting to fixed costs like subscriptions.
“So we’re still trying to figure out how exactly to do that. We’re talking to GCash [operated by G-Xchange Inc.]. We’re talking to Maya [operated by Maya Philippines Inc.]. We’re talking (to) all the participants involved and we’re going to agree on something,” he stressed.
In October last year, the BSP released a draft circular that proposes the removal of bank transaction fees for personal and “micro merchant”
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE imposition of value-added tax (VAT) on digital service providers (DSPs) is set to begin this May and is expected to generate P7.25 billion in revenue for the government that year, according to the Department of Finance (DOF).
During the SGV Tax Symposium last Wednesday, Revenue Operations Group Director Euvimil Niña R. Asuncion said the full implementation of the 12-percent VAT on resident and foreign DSPs will commence on May 16.
As the government aims to collect P4.644 trillion in revenues this year, the new tax measure is seen to add P7.25 billion to the collection.
VAT from digital media and advertising is projected to contribute a total of P94.87 billion from 2026 to 2029, according to Asuncion.
“We hope that we have the proper implementation [of this law and that] a lot of the DSPs would comply so that we really reap the benefits of this measure,” Asuncion said.
Republic Act 12023 (Digital Service law) expanded the scope of VAT to encompass all forms of digital transactions within the Philippines. Transactions by non-resident entities offering
baht rates. A falling three-month dollar-baht forward would reduce hedging costs for dollar-funded investors.
Investors have turned less dovish on the Fed due to a resilient economy and concern that US President-elect Donald Trump’s policies will be inflationary. US Fed fund futures are now pricing around 40 basis points of easing this year, half of what was expected in September for the same period.
transactions. In the draft circular, the central bank said it will eliminate fees on electronic fund transfers for personal transactions, provided these electronic fund transfers do not exceed 10 times per week.
Transaction fees for payments of micro-merchants, according to the draft, will also be eliminated provided that gross receipts do not exceed P250,000.
Under the draft, personal transactions are defined as fund transfers involving persons as a form of remittance or lending. These are done for personal, family, or household purposes and not for business. Micro-merchants, the draft stated, is an end-user that avails of merchant payment acceptance activities under Section 503 of the Manual of Regulations for Payment Systems. These transactions meet the definition of micro-enterprises pursuant to Republic Act 9501 (Magna Carta for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and other related laws and regulations.
online platforms, digital goods and services are included.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is expected to issue the corresponding Revenue Regulation next week and to brief DSPs about the law beginning this month. The BIR can suspend business operations for non-compliance and block access to services of DSPs in the Philippines until these businesses meet the proper registration and VAT remittance obligations.
Despite the measure aimed at creating a fair, competitive and inclusive tax system and marketplace, groups argued that the law would be an additional burden to consumers on top of the already high prices of commodities.
“It’s the option of the company if they would pass it on or if they would bear the additional tax. Of course, we see them adding [fees] but we really don’t see that it would be very substantial,” Asuncion said. She also bristled with the idea that the law would prompt price hikes.
“I don’t think it’s fair to say that it’s the law that’s causing the price increase.”
The law will also earmark 5 percent of incremental revenue from the VAT on digital services to be allocated for the development of the creative industries under the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act.
While the recent hawkish pivot from the Fed prompted Indonesia’s central bank to refrain from cutting rates in December for fear of heaping additional selling pressure on its currency, monetary authorities in Korea and Philippines have lowered rates in the final quarter.
The Philippine central bank Governor Eli Remolona said last Thursday that there is still room to ease policy, with tariff threats from the incoming US President Donald Trump posing challenges to the Philippine economy. A median estimate of a Bloomberg survey of economists shows expectations of 75 basis points of rate cuts each this year in Indonesia, Philippines and South Korea. Policymakers in the region are striving to prop up growth as the prospect of renewed trade tensions and a slowdown in the Chinese economy hurt the outlook. Bloomberg News
Octavio Peralta
Association World
VIP TREATMENT ThIs November 22, 2024, photo shows some of the 65 customers of security Bank Corp. who were treated to curated experiences at “Vogue Threads Manila 2024,” as part of the bank’s “Gold Circle VIP” program. The 3-day event featured “a variety of activities designed to foster thought-provoking conversations, discover new talent, provide networking opportunities, and support emerging Filipino talent creatives, and businesses.”
CREDIT: SECuRIT y Bank CoRp
MANY journalists will recognize that term immediately, as we have, at one time or another, have had to resort to this practice, when we are desperately out of facts to support our ledes or the main topics of our stories.
It is short for “salsal,” the Filipino word for masturbation. And when applied to journalism, it means creating a grand story from very scant information, or vague responses from interview subjects.
Similarly, the Department of Tourism (DOT) tried to “massage” the country’s tourism performance by claiming that despite the tourist arrivals of just 5.95 million in 2024, several source markets, sent tourists here in droves, more than pre-pandemic times. Unfortunately, some of our media colleagues regurgitated the press release without bothering to verify the data.
In their press release issued on Monday, the DOT, in particular, said: “The Middle Eastern market also showed promising signs of recovery in 2024. The United Arab Emirates [UAE] posted a remarkable 668.34 percent recovery rate from its 2019 figures, reflecting increased air connectivity and a surge in interest in the Philippines as a leisure destination. Qatar followed closely, with an impressive 832.87 percent recovery rate. Saudi Arabia registered a recovery rate of 66.54 percent, signifying a steady return of visitors from the Gulf region. Likewise, Oman and Bahrain registered more than 200 percent recovery rates from the 2019 number of arrivals.”
The DOT added, “Those in the Top 25 source markets which have fully recovered as compared with 2019 data included Australia [102.63 percent], Canada [109.26 percent], Hong Kong [106.79 percent], UAE [668.34 percent], Italy [143.02 percent], Spain [111.08 percent], Guam [200.19 percent], New Zealand [100.50 percent], and Switzerland [102.01 percent].”
I immediately noticed the discrepancy in the data above, as I used the official arrivals statistics for 2024, 2023, and 2019 published on the DOT’s website, which show a different picture. (See,“Missedgoal: 5.95-MforeigntouristsvisitedPHLin2024,” BusinessMirror,January6,2025.)
So I asked DOT Spokesperson Ina Loyola what was the basis of their press release which showed these supposed overwhelming market recoveries, and she sent me the statistics, saying, “Ibang format kasi ’yung etravel. Kaya nagkaroon ng adjustment ang figures kasama na OF [overseas Filipinos] for 2019.”
Let me assure readers and other people who, like me, are anal about the accuracy and presentation of statistics, the e-travel form has no part in this shenanigan that the DOT tried to pull off. As per my source in the Bureau of Immigration (BI), they encode the passport of origin in their system, and have been doing so even before the e-travel system was instituted during the pandemic. As such, if a FilipinoAmerican, who has dual citizenship, presents a Philippine passport, he will be recorded as a Filipino. If he uses his US passport, he will be recorded as an American.
So inferring from Loyola’s statement, what the DOT failed to mention in its press release is that they have started including OFs/overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) on short visits here, as part of the headcount
in source markets.
Technically, there is nothing wrong there, because as Tourism Attache for the UK Gerry Panga explained to me, the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s accounting methodology for arrivals data include both foreign and visiting residents who live abroad, on short trips in the destination.
In turn, I pointed out, unlike other countries, the Philippines has a lot of overseas Filipinos living and working abroad. As per the most recent survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority, there is an estimated 2.16 million OFWs, and a substantial number of dual citizens. But as a former DOT colleague of Panga pointed out privately, “[OFs] are part of the reporting, but the number of balikbayans is a separate segment. It’s a market that does not require any marketing effort. They really come home for all reasons.”
So, the so-called “recovered markets” were naturally countries where many OFs/OFWs reside.
Under the DOT’s old, and frankly, more truthful data format, there were 40,026 arrivals from the UAE last year. But under the new format DOT now intends to use henceforth, there were close to 70,000 arrivals from the UAE last year, which means among them were 30,000 OFWs who came home. And when OFWs come home from the Middle East, they usually stay in their family homes, instead of hotels.
And although the market may indeed have recovered, the old format data shows just a 292 percent recovery rate, and not the 668.34 percent rate the DOT purports.
Similarly, I wrote there were 223,944 arrivals from Canada last year, 6 percent less than the prepandemic arrivals of 238,850. But the DOT’s press release claimed a 109.3-percent recovery rate from 269,300 arrivals from Canada last year, which means among them were 45,356 Canadians who used their Philippine passports.
I discussed the issue with former president of the Tourism Congress of the Philippines Jojo Clemente, and he admitted that he was “taken aback” by the DOT’s decision to change its arrivals report format.
“What I can say is that we could have done better if more resources have been given to the overseas offices to further diversify the market segments. While we appreciate the arrivals generated by overseas Filipinos, there is still so much to tap in terms of purely foreign arrivals.”
I think the DOT’s old arrivals format, where balikbayans are categorized as a separate market, is the more accurate portrayal of the fruits of the agency’s labors in marketing to foreign tourists, and are among the main reasons it gets an increase (or decrease) in
its annual budget. While the DOT under its previous administrations also recognized the contributions of balikbayans to the Philippine tourism industry, they chose to market the country heavily to foreign nationalities because the latter often stay longer and spend more, giving a major boost to the country’s visitor receipts.
For those in the private sector, like Clemente, who heads Rajah Tours, “Accurate reporting of arrivals is important to stakeholders in many ways. It may tell us where the growth markets are, what’s not performing well, where we can concentrate on promoting and so on. It gives us a report card as to which markets like the Philippines or not. Through those stats, we can start to figure out where we need to ramp up promotions or find out what makes the destination desirable, or not to certain markets.”
By the way, this is not the first time the DOT has misrepresented tourism data. In 2017, the agency claimed the arrivals and tourism revenues under the first year of the Duterte administration were significantly higher than the first year of the Aquino administration. This provoked an immediate backlash from netizens who published the actual data and showed a more accurate comparison, thus forcing the DOT to remove the erroneous claim and infograph on its social media pages.
Also under its cruise tourism program, the DOT double-counts passengers by treating each port of arrival as separate visits even if the passengers are just sailing on one ship. As such, if a 300-passenger cruise ship drops anchor in Manila, BI will record the number of passengers aboard as 300, even if the ship visits other ports in the country such as Palawan or Boracay, etc. The DOT, on the other hand, will record the port calls separately, thus, 900 passengers.
Aside from promoting domestic tourism, the job of the DOT, as per Republic Act No. 9593 (Tourism Act of 2009), is to “create a favorable image of the Philippines within the international community, thereby strengthening the country’s attraction as a tourism destination and eventually paving the way for other benefits that may result from a positive global view of the country.” Ergo, the reason Panga and his fellow tourism attaches, along with marketing representatives in various countries abroad, break their backs in implementing activations and events over several months in a year, is to encourage foreign nationals to visit the Philippines. Otherwise, let DOT just lean back and rely on the balikbayans and OFWs to come home to check into our hotels and resorts, go on the guided tours, and buy souvenirs at Kultura. ■
as much in return will help you build a strong network of associates that ensure support.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Partnerships will require nurturing. Showing appreciation will make others receptive to engaging in activities that will bring you closer and into agreement with what you want to achieve. Changing your surroundings will spark your imagination and enable you to reinforce your plans. ★★
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You’ll get a unique perspective if you communicate with people from a different background. Travel may entice you, but it can also cost more than anticipated or put you in harm’s way. Protect your health and well-being by avoiding places that put you at risk. Sticking closer to home is favored. ★★★★★
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Find a platform to promote your goals. Refuse to let others decide what’s best for you. A persuasive discussion will help get your point across, encourage others to participate and map a way forward. A change of heart is apparent; don’t waste time. Initiate what works best for you.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be careful; your actions will only sit well with some. The simpler, the better. Aim to lower your overhead, limit indulgence and keep the peace with friends, associates and loved ones. Keep your plans and feelings tucked away until you know how others feel and are likely to respond. ★★★
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Take care of business; you’ll discover finishing what you start is more manageable than anticipated. The purpose is to own the moment instead of allowing outside pressures to infiltrate your domain. No one’s problems are or should be as important as yours. ★★★
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Put your energy into your surroundings, updating personal paperwork and matters that can influence your emotional and physical well-being. Make innovative changes to investments and how you handle your cash and professional progress or decline. ★★★★★
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Double-check anything you plan to incorporate into your life. Excessive behavior will cost you. Run a tight ship and reap the rewards. Avoid letting outsiders intervene. Trust and believe in yourself and rely on your ability to fend for yourself. ★★
BIRTHDAY BABY: You are complicated, speculative and diligent. You are cautious and spurring.
Zendaya sparks engagement speculation at Golden Globes with a sparkling ring
NEW YORK—Zendaya is generating engagement speculation after wearing a massive diamond on her left ring finger during the Golden Globes.
Representatives for Zendaya and her longtime partner, Tom Holland, did not return requests for comment from The Associated Press on Monday, a day after the 28-year-old Emmy Award-winner attended the telecast at the Beverly Hilton.
People magazine said the pair is engaged, citing “a family source.” Another source told the magazine that Holland shared the news with friends around New Year’s Eve. TMZ was the first to report the engagement, citing “sources close to the couple.”
Zendaya, the breakout star from Euphoria and Challengers who showed up on the red carpet in a Louis Vuitton gown, has long been linked to Holland since they played love interests in 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming. Holland wasn’t at Sunday’s Globes.
A reporter for the Los Angeles Times seemed to confirm something was up when she held up her engagement ring and pointed to it, and Zendaya responded by showing her own left-hand bling. The reporter then asked if the actor was engaged and “she kept showing her ring, smiled coyly and shrugged her shoulders mysteriously.”
Another clue was that Bulgari—for which the Dune star is an ambassador—provided Zendaya’s carpet jewelry—a necklace, right-hand ring and earrings—but a press release didn’t mention the ring on her left ring finger. AP
WARNER BROS. PICTURES TEASES
‘SUPERMAN’ WITH OFFICIAL TEASER POSTER
SUPERMAN, DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this year from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Man of Steel who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.
DC Studios heads Peter Safran and Gunn are producing the film, which Gunn directs from his own screenplay, based on characters from DC, Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The film stars David Corenswet (Twisters, Hollywood) in the dual role of Superman/Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult (the X-Men movies, Juror #2) as Lex Luthor. The film also stars Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio, María Gabriela de Faría, Wendell Pierce, Alan Tudyk, Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell. Superman will be in theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 9, 2025, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Show BusinessMirror
‘Conclave’: Allegorizing the cave
THERE are two ways of viewing the film Conclave: to experience it as a horrifying series of events, or to be enveloped in the magisterial spirituality of a religious tradition. From the moment the brooding, harmonium-induced and percussive musical score of Volker Bertelmann (he did the soundtrack for 2022’s
All Quiet on the Western Front) follows a man whose back is turned to us, the anticipation is aimed not at the spirit but the body. No spirituality is hinted at; there is, instead, silence that often precedes an emotional upheaval, even the violation of a soul.
The man walking is Cardinal Lawrence and, for seconds, his hand gripping a valise is all we see. The same nervous hands are there as he enters a hallway, into the room, where the Pope lay in state. Inside the room, the cardinal kneels down with the rest of the other cardinals, as they intone a Latin prayer. The throne of Peter is declared vacant.
Let the contest begin.
Welcome to the most private of caves, a sanctuary of sanctuaries, where rituals only a select few have knowledge of will be performed again for an efficacious leadership. At the center of this tension is the selection of the next leader of the 1.3 billion (more not less) Catholics in the whole wide world.
Welcome to the Conclave. It is to the credit of the Roman Catholic hierarchy that no filmmaker behind the film Conclave will be decapitated. There are grumblings and questions about the authenticity of the depiction not only of the conclave but also the site of the selection process but, hey, this is cinema and, besides, authenticity has always been overrated.
What intrigues the Catholics and, I like to assume, non-Catholics is how cinematic imagination can approximate the ceremony, its complexity and sacrality, that has been generally hidden from us regular worshippers and nominal members of this Church.
What is there to learn from the secrets of the Roman Catholic Church? What wisdom about our faith can be strengthened and/or diminished after we brave the scenarios constructed and deconstructed by the arts of filmmaking about this system called the Papacy?
What extracinematic lessons are there to be tapped that have not yet been discussed to death by theologians and catechism teachers? Or, is our religion like an infinity pool, which only deceives us for its endlessness and yet, in reality, a marvelous
architectural trompe l’oeil? Come to think of it, when one looks at the ceiling of our house of prayers, we do see figures—prophets, angels, and saints—that literally deceive our eyes.
Heresy, sacrilege, irony, sarcasm and many other human feelings aside, how do we navigate the discourse of Conclave? Let me begin with the physicality of the film. How on earth did they shoot those scenes inside the most august halls of the Vatican? They did not, as the press releases assure us. The Cinecittà Studio, which provided the setting for Ben Hur, Cleopatra and The Passion of the Christ, among many other films, has once more graciously recreated the nooks and crannies the church authorities would not have allowed any director to use. And yet, the suspension of disbelief is there as we gape at the sight of the frescoes and the timeworn walls that had seen centuries of conflict and conquest.
Were there liberties taken in the depiction of facts? An interesting point was the color of the cardinals’ robes. Apparently, the costume designer found the present color of the princes of the Church less interesting than the hue used some centuries ago. Cinema and production design win over history.
Do I find the film compelling? Let me rush to the ending, without spoiling anything for you. Firmly, I believe that disclosure about the Mexican cardinal comes to me like an afterthought. No wonder, Christianne Amanpour interviewing the director of Conclave spoke of how the film seemed to have abruptly ended. That there was this aching desire to see a sequel, or anything which could explain that harried completion.
With that closure out of the way, allow me to usher you into seeing the actors who flesh out the troubled personas of Conclave. In vignettes, the film charms us with the depiction of the cardinals as
they file into the hallowed hall. They look like eager members of an elite boys’ club. One old bishop is seen engrossed with his mobile phone. A trio of cardinals smoke their beliefs away in the corridor. Flamboyant representatives throw their weight around as they speak in Italian, the better to show who belong to the original tribe. And there are the leads. Almost—almost—built like stock characters, John Lithgow as the Canadian cardinal and Lucian Msamati as the African cardinal are all too real. Sergio Castellitto as the traditionalist powerful Archbishop of Venice and Stanley Tucci as the American liberal are what we imagine our bishops to be.
Two actors are just to0, pardon the impiety, delicious to observe. One is Isabella Roselinni as Sister Agnes. She may not have the ethereal beauty of her mother, the great Ingrid Bergman, but she packs a wallop of authority. When she faces the Dean of Cardinals, Lawrence, to tell him that it is she who has command over sisters and nuns, you wish she would have her way. And that accent that is a cross between the haughty and the holy is all she needs to employ within a Church that is male-ordained.
As Cardinal Lawrence, Ralph Fiennes maintains a slouch that would otherwise be a defeatist posture in another character. Yet, in his role as the Cardinal who is suspected to harbor an ambition despite what he has always professed to possess—an internal conflict pushing him to resign from his post—he is always ready to triumphantly pounce on anyone who attempts to breach protocols. Only Fiennes as the reluctant papal candidate can make sense of faith not in a manner of believing but in doubting. Whoever says good acting is instinctive should concentrate on Fiennes whose thought process, in struggle, we can almost hear.
The cinematography of Stephane Fontaine uses close-ups to bring us inside the mind of Cardinal Lawrence. The same camera becomes an adroit witness to spaces that, despite their massive scale, appear to imprison the cardinals as they await for the Holy Spirit or Politics to touch them.
Peter Straughan wrote the screenplay, which he adapted from the book of the same title by Robert Harris. Straughan won the recent Golden Globe for Best Screenplay. Edward Berger directs Conclave. It is produced by Indian Paintbrush, Access Entertainment, FilmNation Entertainment, and House Productions. ■
Editor: Gerard S. Ramos
AS Cardinal Lawrence, Ralph Fiennes (in photo) and director Edward Berger shepherd Conclave into becoming one of the most compelling films of 2024.
SOFIA PABLO
Pet-influencers to the rescue: Cuteness for a cause
THE Philippines, located at the heart of the Coral Triangle, is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking marine life. But beneath the beauty lies a harsh reality—species like whale sharks, manta rays, and marine turtles are in danger, and they need our help.
Raising awareness about marine conservation hasn’t been easy—until a creative agency found a foolproof way to grab human attention. Enter the ultimate gamechangers: pet influencers! Yes, your furry friends are becoming the new face of marine wildlife advocacy. Dog and cat influencers have been appointed ambassadors for endangered marine wildlife, to help speak up for the cause.
Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines (MWW) teamed up with MullenLowe TREYNA to launch “Animals for Animals PH.” This brilliant campaign puts the
irresistible charm of pets to work for their marine counterparts. After all, who can say no to a pup dressed as a whale shark or a cat rocking a marine turtle costume?
The most adorable campaign to date rallies pet owners to dress their dogs and cats in costumes inspired by endangered marine species like whale sharks, manta rays, and marine turtles. The costumes, available in sizes XS to Large for P800 aren’t just adorable; they help spread an important message while stealing hearts online. Now you can turn your house pets into professional attentiongrabbers for a good cause.
Not a pet parent? No worries! You can still support the initiative by purchasing an Ally Certificate with a donation of your choice (P100, P300, or P500). Every peso goes directly to MWW’s critical conservation efforts.
This campaign taps into the irresistible charm of dogs and cats, which humans apparently find impossible to say no to.
#PetsofTikTok have elevated the budol culture for the benefit of marine animals in need. And thanks to their viral online content, they’ve inserted marine life conservation into trending TikTok conversations. Dogs and cats are naturalborn influencers after all.
The Philippines is home to the third-largest population of whale sharks globally, but only about 2,000 individuals have been documented since 2007. Meanwhile, five species of marine turtles, some critically endangered, call Philippine waters their home. And manta rays? They’re under-researched but just as vulnerable, often targeted for their valuable gill plates for Chinese medicine.
MWW works tirelessly on a volunteer basis to protect these marine creatures and their habitats. By joining this campaign, you’re not just dressing up your pets; you’re giving these majestic marine animals a fighting chance.
Want to turn your fur baby into a conservation icon? Head over to the Animals for Animals PH TikTok shop to snag a costume while supplies last. Every costume purchased and every donation made brings us closer to safeguarding the marine wildlife of the Philippines.
Let’s make a splash for a good cause— because when it comes to saving the ocean, even the tiniest paws and fluffiest butts can make a difference.
Indulge in the Best of Japan’s Seasonal Flavors at Okada Manila’s Kappou Imamura
AT Okada Manila’s Japanese Kappou Imamura, guests are transported into the heart of Japan’s culinary traditions, where the elegance of Kappou ryori meets the finest seasonal ingredients.
The restaurant’s menu evolves with the seasons, incorporating special ingredients that highlight the best of what Japan’s culinary landscape has to offer. This dedication to excellence allows guests to enjoy a continuously changing array of flavors, reflecting the rich diversity of Japan’s gastronomy.
Led by Chef Yoshihiro Sugiyama, who trained in Kyoto and perfected his craft at Michelin-starred establishments, the kitchen at Japanese Kappou Imamura delivers a stunning fusion of tradition and creativity. Chef Sugiyama’s expertise shines in each beautifully presented dish, giving diners the unique experience to savor the depth and beauty of Japanese culinary art in every bite.
Every dish at Japanese Kappou Imamura highlights Japan’s culinary treasures, with a deep respect for seasonal ingredients and sustainability.
The Chef’s Sashimi Selection features five kinds of seafood, carefully chosen to ensure each piece is at peak freshness. A must-try dish for those seeking a true taste of Japanese summer is the Charcoal-grilled Sweetfish. The fish is grilled over charcoal to enhance its natural sweetness while imparting a rich umami flavor.
THE Charcoal-grilled Japanese Wagyu with Vegetables has an iconic melt-in-your-mouth texture, this signature is a specialty that you cannot miss.
Another signature specialty that cannot be missed is the Charcoal-grilled Japanese Wagyu with Vegetables.
The tender Wagyu beef is grilled to perfection, allowing its rich flavors to shine while maintaining the iconic melt-inyour-mouth texture. Another standout is the Three Kinds of Assorted Tempura, featuring shrimp, select seafood, and vegetables coated in a light batter and deep-fried to achieve a crispy golden exterior. It is served with a zesty dipping sauce that perfectly complements the delicate flavors of the tempura.
In addition to these expertly crafted dishes, the ambiance of Japanese Kappou Imamura entices diners to indulge in an unforgettable experience. The restaurant’s design features a bar counter with the perfect view of
the kitchen as the chefs prepare exquisite dishes. There’s also a private dining room for more intimate family gatherings or private business meetings that can accommodate up to eight persons. The minimalist yet elegant design, with softly glowing lamps, give guests a sense of serenity as they dine; and the visibility of the kitchen is a sight to behold as the guests watch the chefs in action, preparing incredible dishes that showcase the best flavors of Japan.
Japanese Kappou Imamura has established itself as one of the renowned destinations for authentic Japanese cuisine. The dedication of Chef Yoshihiro Sugiyama and his team gives guests an opportunity to experience the finest seasonal offerings from Japan. With every dish, the story of Japan’s culinary industry unfolds, connecting guests to rich food culture that has been passed down through generations. The “Beyond Flavors, A Feast for the Soul” campaign aims to create more of these connections between guests and the culinary cultures of the world, while setting the standard for fine dining.
For more information about the campaign, visit https://www.okadamanila.com/beyond-flavors-afeast-for-the-soul. For inquiries and reservations, send an email PremiumDining@okadamanila.com or call +632 8555 5799.
Golden Haven Leads Nation as Largest Developer of Vertical Memorial Sanctuaries
FOR over 40 years, Golden Haven Memorial Parks has set the Golden Standard in memorial care, leading the industry with innovative, sustainable, and meaningful solutions. As the largest developer of vertical memorial sanctuaries in the Philippines, Golden Haven has embraced cutting-edge approaches to provide families with dignified spaces for remembrance. Vertical memorials, which involve multistory columbarium structures, optimize land usage by offering more interment spaces in a smaller footprint, making them a sustainable option for urban areas where land is limited.
Golden Haven’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its design philosophy, which maximizes space efficiency while ensuring that each memorial space preserves the serenity and reverence that families deserve. By focusing on vertical developments, Golden Haven reduces environmental impact, minimizes land use, and provides long-lasting memorial solutions that are both practical and respectful of the natural surroundings.
Golden Haven’s portfolio includes several vertical memorial developments across its parks. Its flagship property, Golden Haven Las Piñas, features the iconic
Pope John Paul II Columbary Node, along with additional ossuaries and its latest addition, the Memorial Alcove. The company’s Cebu park also showcases several columbaria, including Santuario de Beati, Palazzo Laterno, and the scenic oriental-themed Moon Gate.
Golden Haven’s Jardim Tropicale Park in Norzagaray is home to the Aero Columbarium, a dome-shaped structure, with two more domed columbaria—Terra and Aqua—currently under development. The Memorial Alcove in Las Piñas further highlights Golden Haven’s dedication to innovation in memorial care.
Among Golden Haven’s most notable vertical developments is the Santuario de San Ezekiel Moreno Church and Columbarium in Las Piñas, Metro Manila’s largest and most awarded columbarium. This extraordinary facility features three expansive galleries with a total of 24,000 columbary vaults. Located beneath the church, it has earned the prestigious FIABCI Gold Award for its outstanding design and sustainability. This remarkable vertical development not only addresses the growing demand for memorial spaces but also exemplifies Golden Haven’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the memorial care industry.
RENOWNED international travel and lifestyle brand
TUMI has opened its new store at Greenbelt 5, Makati with a sophisticated celebration of style, innovation, and craftsmanship.
The grand opening event for TUMI’s largest store in the Philippines and the first to showcase its Manifest Concept Design attracted a prominent guest list that included Rep. Franz Pumaren, Director Carlos Alvarez, businesswoman Charmaine Lagman, designer Maureen Disini, and celebrity couples Cristalle Belo and Justin Pitt, and Nikki Gil and BJ Albert.
Representing TUMI at the event were Subrata Dutta, President of Samsonite Group; Randy Wong, General Manager for Southeast Asia; and Mariana Zobel de Ayala, President of Ayala Malls. Also present from the Primer Group of Companies were Jimmy Thai, CEO and President; Board of Directors Susan Thai, Johnny Thai (represented by Jamille Thai), Jerry Sy; Dinah Yau-Lim, COO; Sofia Borromeo-Alvarez, Business Unit Head; Dane Marie Lacap, Brand Manager; and Ella Martinez from Marketing.
Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Subrata Dutta, President of Samsonite Group; Randy Wong, General Manager for Southeast Asia; Jimmy Thai, President and CEO of the Primer Group of Companies; and Mariana Zobel de Ayala, President of Ayala Malls, more than 70 guests enjoyed on-site product demonstrations inside the spacious new store. Throughout the evening, guests were also treated to an exclusive first look at standout pieces from TUMI’s Fall 2024 and Holiday 2024 collections. Highlights included the women’s Voyageur
DIGIPLUS Interactive, together with its flagship brands BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, and its social development arm BingoPlus Foundation, has partnered with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to formally launch a nationwide responsible gaming campaign. This collaboration reinforces DigiPlus’ steadfast commitment to making responsible gaming a priority, ensuring that gaming remains an enjoyable and positive experience.
As the home of trusted entertainment platforms, responsible gaming has long been central to DigiPlus’ mission. Under its “Pusta de Peligro” campaign, a colloquial reference to “Petsa de Peligro,” BingoPlus Foundation has spearheaded initiatives aimed at educating and empowering players to exercise caution and discipline in their gaming. These include the Tamang Laro, Tamang Panalo webinar series, which not only guided players on maintaining balance and control in their gaming habits, but also addressed mental health and intervention support.
Other efforts include personalized financial coaching provided to the recordbreaking P154 million BingoPlus jackpot winner, helping ensure sound money management; and responsible gaming videos that reached millions nationwide.
collection, celebrated for its timeless elegance and adaptability, as well as the all-new Turin collection, meticulously crafted from premium Italian leather and accented with elevated metal details, making it a perfect fit for the modern, multifaceted man. The grand opening of TUMI Greenbelt 5 was a tribute to the brand’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and design that enhances every
“Our priority is to develop memorial sanctuaries that embody peace, sustainability, and the preservation of loved ones’ memories,” said Tessie Lanot, Luzon Operations Head of Golden Haven. “As the largest developer of vertical memorials, Golden Haven remains committed to setting the Golden Standard in Memorial Care, creating spaces that respect both the needs of our communities and the environment.”
With over 40 years of leadership in the death care industry, Golden Haven’s comprehensive approach to memorial park development reflects its commitment to sustainable, meaningful, and accessible memorial solutions. By embracing the vertical model, Golden Haven not only addresses the current demand for memorial spaces but also sets a new industry benchmark, championing a vision of remembrance that balances both spatial and sentimental needs for Filipino families. Explore the world-class memorial properties and services that Golden Haven offer today. Call or message (0919) 0790 208 / (0919) 079 0209, or visit their Facebook page or website at www. goldenhaven.com.ph.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco underscored the significance of this joint effort, “Gaming is meant to entertain, but it must always come with safeguards
to protect players. We are proud to join DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation in this vital advocacy, which educates players and promotes a culture of responsibility. Together, we aim to elevate the industry by prioritizing player welfare.”
DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco echoed the sentiment, highlighting the company’s dedication to responsible gaming: “Responsible gaming is not just an advocacy for us at DigiPlus, but a fundamental principle. Beyond offering entertainment, we are deeply committed to delivering gaming experiences that are not only fun but also responsible. This campaign with PAGCOR is an important step in advancing our mission to empower players, promote financial literacy, and foster balanced gaming practices.” The campaign will focus on empowering players through prevention, education, and intervention. BingoPlus Foundation will be expanding its public awareness initiatives, featuring new digital and onground campaigns to educate players about maintaining balance and control while gaming. Building on the success of the webinar series, live events and community workshops will further amplify the advocacy. By joining forces with PAGCOR, DigiPlus reaffirms its dedication to raising the bar for responsible gaming practices in the Philippines. This campaign is not just an initiative, but also a statement of BingoPlus Foundation’s unwavering commitment to redefine gaming as a responsible and enriching activity.
“TOGETHER,
INDUSTRY BY PRIORITIZING
WELFARE.” – PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco and DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco underscore the importance of a joint campaign on responsible gaming.
Motoring BusinessMirror
SUZUKI PHILIPPINES UNVEILS
THE HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED JIMNY 5-DOOR RHINO EDITION FOR THE NEW YEAR
MANILA , Philippines—Kick off the New Year with a bold statement as Suzuki Philippines proudly announces the arrival of the Jimny 5-Door Rhino Edition, the latest addition to the iconic Jimny lineup. Packed with unique features and legendary off-road capabilities, the Rhino Edition brings ruggedness, style, and adventure-ready performance like never before. The Jimny 5-Door Rhino Edition is more than ready to take you on extraordinary journeys. This special edition boasts distinctive enhancements that set it apart, including a front bumper under garnish, side under garnish, black mud flaps for the front, black mud flaps with the Suzuki logo for the rear, a Soft Rhino spare tire cover, a Rhino emblem sticker on the rear door, and Rhino Edition body decals that highlight its adventurous spirit. To further its unique appeal, the Rhino Edition comes in two striking color
Under
the Jimny 5-Door Rhino Edition retains its reliable 1.5L engine, delivering the perfect balance of power and efficiency for both urban driving and off-road adventures. Equipped with Suzuki’s renowned AllGrip Pro technology, it ensures exceptional traction and control, enabling drivers to conquer even the most challenging terrains with ease. The
PARANAQUE City—As we enter 2025, HONDA, through Honda Foundation, Inc. (HFI) and Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), operating the Honda Safety Driving Center (HSDC), has forged a momentous memorandum of agreement with Tamang Ride PH, a road safety advocacy movement organized under the initiative of A Child’s Trust is Ours to Nurture (ACTION), Incorporated. The Tamang Ride movement will create a comprehensive platform for customers’ voices about road safety and will encourage awareness of road safety through their active involvement. This partnership aims to promote road safety, focusing on safe driving/riding for children and beginners. ACTION’s advocacy over the years has been to continually find ways to help the Filipino people, especially children. It has the capability to reach the poorest in society through existing partnerships with government institutions like the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
The Tamang Ride PH movement is set to launch in May 2025.
As the industry leader in road safety awareness and education, HONDA will share Road Safety riding/driving skills training information and educational materials with Tamang Ride PH. HONDA donated PhP
1 million to Tamang Ride PH as Road Safety
Ambassador through HFI. This donation will fund the development of Tamang Ride App to improve road safety awareness and participation. The creation of road safetyrelated content will be published on all Tamang Ride PH social media platforms, disseminating educational and advocacy materials, events, experiential testimoni -
als from road users, among others. These efforts will also contribute to gathering road crash data, enhancing Honda’s existing collaboration with public institutions for this purpose, such as the partnership with the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) since July 2023. Ultimately, this initiative aims to protect children and
Filipino families. It aligns with Honda’s objective to expand its reach, particularly to kids (3 to 7 years old), teens (13 to 17 years old), and beginner riders.
Additionally, HPI has agreed for full collaboration with ACTION in the creation of the Tamang Ride Educational module, in providing know-how and funding of PhP
980,000. HSDC will share Honda original Kids on Safety and Teen Smart programs and lead the Training the Trainers and pilot run within the year. SAFETY FOR OUR FAMILY” campaign in the Philippines. HSDC, a world-class Honda riding and driving facility in Paranaque City, provides a learning venue for motorcycle riders and
car, I prayed that no one got hurt in the conflagration.
From December 22, 2024 to January 2, 2025 alone, 577 road accidents were recorded by the Department of Health, several of them resulting in fatalities, among them children and senior citizens.
‘Faulty brakes’ INVOLVED in the crashes were trucks with “faulty brakes” plowing haplessly into unknowing civilians and vehicles either parked or caught in traffic, SUVs and sedans travelling mindlessly and motorcycles usually in break-neck speeds and not caring to slow down at intersections.
Most often, the reasons given by wayward drivers were: 1) they had fallen asleep, 2) been drinking alcohol or 3) simply lost control of the steering wheel.
In light of the spate of vehicle disasters, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III has sounded the alarm through his bill to address the issue.
“We should stop our attitude of taking for granted these road accidents,” said Pimentel as quoted by Business Mirror’s Butch Fernandez. “We need stronger measures to protect our citizens.”
Pimentel bill
PIMENTEL is the author of Senate Bill 1015, which seeks to amend Article 365 of Act 3815 (Revised Penal Code), as amended, to address reckless driving and promote road safety.
Wrote Fernandez: “PIMENTEL’S bill aims to implement stricter penalties for traffic violations, improve driver education and training, and enhance road infrastructure.”
“In the measure, Pimentel explained that the State should take a more active role in reforming the mental attitude or condition that leads to reckless driving.”
“Pimentel’s bill also seeks to give the law more teeth by amending Article 365 of the RPC to increase the penalty of imprisonment for imprudence and negligence.
Said Pimentel: “We can minimize accidents by enforcing the law and strengthening measures to upgrade our transportation system.”
“The senator also stressed the importance of public awareness and responsible driving habits. He urged motorists to prioritize safety and follow traffic regulations.”
For traffic laws to be meaningful, law enforcers themselves must be visible at all times to show motorists that they really mean business. T hey should scatter themselves in strategic spots of the road and not group themselves in one place, chatting endlessly.
Petron Treats
PETRON Treats, the convenience store chain of industry leader Petron Corporation, continues to bring a new era of convenience to Filipino travellers with its re-launched stores and exciting new features. Combining modern aesthetics, quality food service, and a dynamic vibe, Petron Treats sets itself apart as more than just a pit stop.
Christine Giray of Gadgets writes: “PETRON Treats has undergone a stunning transformation with a bright, clean and vibrant design that welcomes customers the moment they walk in.”
“Adding to the upbeat atmosphere, each store offers a curated Spotify playlist of happy pop tunes designed to lift spirits and bring a sense of fun to every visit.”
Centerpiece
“THE in-store bakery is a centerpiece of
the new Petron Treats experience, serving up freshly baked breads and pastries.
From warm, fluffy pan de sal to cheesy ensaymada, customers can indulge in delicious, oven-fresh delights perfect for a quick snack.”
“Complementing this is the Petron Treats Coffee Corner, featuring signature coffee blends. Whether you’re craving for a smooth Americano, a frothy cappuccino or velvety hot chocolate, the coffee corner ensures every visit is cozy, comforting and energizing.”
“Adding a refreshing twist to its beverage menu, Petron Treats has launched BESTEA, its house-blend Calamansi Iced Tea.
With its zesty, refreshing flavor, BESTEA is set to become a traveller’s favorite, especially for those seeking a light, citrusy pick-me-up on the road.”
Highlights
“THE Petron Treats revitalization program spans key travel corridors and urban centers.
Notable highlights include:
n Expansion Treats at NLEX, SLEX, STAR and TPLEX.
n Treats at TPLEX Northbound and
automobile drivers to acquire a road safety mindset and necessary driving skills. HSDC partners with public and private organizations to spread and educate the community on road safety awareness, mindset, and driving proficiency, including the Students on Safety program for kids and teens. In December 2024, Asian Honda announced Honda’s commitment to a multiyear partnership with the UN to improve road safety, marking a historic milestone as the first vehicle manufacturer to join the global partnership. This advances Honda’s global goal of halving traffic deaths by 2030. In the Philippines, Honda’s partnership with Tamang Ride PH marks a significant milestone in reducing road crashes and aiming for zero road crashes by
Honda strives to bring meaningful progress to communities worldwide, aspiring to be a company that society wants to exist. As Road Safety Ambassador, Honda is committed to making communities safer for every family and the next generation.
Southbound both offer hearty meals, snacks and a place to relax before hitting the road.
n Reopening of the muchanticipated Treats along Edsa-Connecticut near Greenhills, San Juan.
“B eyond convenience, Petron Treats is working hand-in-hand with the Petron Value Card (PVC) to deliver exciting rewards for its loyal customers.”
“Motorists can enjoy exclusive promos, earn points with every purchase,
Japan seals ‘Sport for Tomorrow’ program with PHL volleyball
By Aldrin Quinto
JAPAN recognizes the Philippines’ efforts to stamp its mark on the continental and global stage and the Asian volleyball power has vowed closer ties with the Filipinos in preparation for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships. Minister and Consul-General Takahiro Hanada vowed continued support through Japan’s Sport for Tomorrow program on Thursday at the new Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) office at The BonifacioPrime in Taguig City. Hanada led the turnover of volleyball supplies, mainly competition balls from the Japan Volleyball Association, to Asian Volleyball Confederation president and FIVB executive vice president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, who is also the PNVF chief, and members of the Alas Pilipinas men’s and women’s teams on Thursday.
“Through our program ‘Sport for Tomorrow,’ Japan realizes and harnesses the power of sports as a force for global prosperity and harmony,” Hanada said.
“It has been an immense joy seeing our countries’ deepening ties promote space for sports to thrive and flourish. With young and aspiring talents leading the charge, I am confident Philippine volleyball will continue to win the hearts of more Filipinos, one exciting serve, set and spike at a time.”
Suz ara hailed Japan’s role in raising volleyball’s profile in the Philippines ahead of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships set September 12 to 28.
In addition to assistance given by the embassy when Alas Pilipinas sets up training camps in the Land of the Rising Sun, the Japanese national team has been one of the crowd favorites when the Philippines hosts the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), while clubs in the V.League have been valuable partners in
the buildup to the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
We appreciate Japan’s continuing support of Asian volleyball and we hope to continue this relationship with Japan not only in terms of equipment but also coaching, national team training camps and even management,” Suzara said.
Hanada said he is delighted to see Japanese teams warmly welcomed by Filipinos in each of their visit here.
“I t has been especially moving to see Filipinos welcome Japan’s own team with such warmth and energy during their exhibitions in the country,” Hanada said.
Alas Pilipinas women’s team members Thea Gagate and Dawn Catindig, and men’s squad members Vince Lorenzo and EJ Casaña attended the event, along with PNVF secretarygeneral Don Caringal and other members of the PNVF board.
With the sport seeing recordbreaking attendances and emerging talents, I believe our cooperation comes at an exciting time for volleyball’s culture,” Hanada said.
“ We eagerly take this opportunity to support the Philippines’ emerging volleyball scene.… We are proud to have this equipment in the hands of young and eager Filipinos,” Hanada added. “It is my hope that these volleyballs play a vital part in fueling the dreams and connections of the Philippines’ youth.”
Suz ara is also pleased to receive more help in PNVF’s efforts to discover talent while boosting the popularity of the sport.
The Philippines is a volleyball country,” Suzara said. “That’s our main slogan now.”
These equipment will fuel the enthusiasm of young players in the provinces… These balls will reach many young players in Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon,” Suzara said as he thanked Hanada and the JVA for continued support.
Sinner, Djokovic in opposite ends of men’s draw at Australian Open
Australia— Defending champion Jannik Sinner and 10-time Australian Open winner Novak Djokovic have landed in opposite sides of the draw for the season’s first major, ruling out a replay of last year’s semifinal match. Sinner upset Djokovic in the semifinals here last year before coming back to beat Daniil Medvedev in the final, 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3, for his first Grand Slam singles title.
Top-ranked Sinner has a first-round match against Nicolas Jarry and also has Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton and Medvedev in his quarter of the draw. Fritz will open against fellow American Jenson Brooksby. Djokovic and No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz could meet in the quarterfinals, with a possible semifinal against No. 2 Alexander Zverev.
A t the draw Thursday to set the brackets for the singles fields, defending champions Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka walked into the official ceremony on the steps of
Margaret Court Arena holding their trophies.
S abalenka won her second consecutive title at Melbourne Park in 2024 by defeating Zheng Qinwen, 6-3, 6-2. Sabalenka will be attempting to win a third consecutive women’s singles title at Melbourne Park, something last accomplished by Martina Hingis from 1997 to 1999.
Sabalenka drew a tough opening match against 2017 US Open champion Sloane Stephens and has 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva and Zheng in her section.
“I h ave a lot of great memories and to be back here...as a twotime Australian Open champion, it’s definitely something special,” Sabalenka, who won the Brisbane International title last week, said at the draw ceremony. “I hope that I can keep doing what I’m doing here in Australia.”
Third-seeded Coco Gauff is a potential semifinal rival for Sabalenka. Gauff has a challenging first-round
Major Awards for pool aces, world ring champs
FOUR world champions in boxing and billiards lead the list of Major Awardees who will be feted in the San Miguel Corp.-Philippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Awards Night at the Grand Ballroom of the Manila Hotel.
Pool icons Rubilen Amit and Carlo Biado, along with boxing champions Melvin Jerusalem and Pedro Taduran lead the list of athletes who will receive Major Awards from the country’s oldest media organization during its traditional awards presentation on January 27.
A mit finally won the World Pool Association (WPA) Women’s World 9-Ball Championship last year, which Biado followed up by copping
the WPA Predator World 10-Ball Championship, while Jerusalem reigned as World Boxing Council miniflyweight king and Taduran regained the International Boxing Federation minimumweight crown.
S ix others will be given Major Awards during the star-studded affair co-presented by ArenaPlus, Cignal and Media Quest.
T hey are Daniel Quizon (chess), Rianne Malixi (golf), Tachiana Mangin (taekwondo), John Alvin Guce (horse racing), Batang Manda (horse racing) and former Local Government and Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos (horse racing).
Gymnast Carlos Yulo, who achieved an unprecedented double gold medal for the Philippines in the Paris Olympics,
shines brightest among all stars as the 2024 Athlete of the Year, which serves as highlight of the biggest PSA Awards Night ever made possible by major sponsors Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, PLDT/Smart, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go and Januarius Holdings, with support from the Philippine Basketball Association, Premiere Volleyball League, 1-Pacman Party List, AcroCity, Rain or Shine and Akari. Incidentally, both Amit and Biado were Athletes of the Year honor in 2009 and 2016, respectively.
Quizon made his mark in chess last year by becoming the country’s 17th grandmaster during the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Hungary, while Malixi starred in the Women’s Australian
Master of the Amateurs and achieved back-to-back triumphs in the US Girls’ Junior and the US Women’s Amateur, respectively, to soar at a high No. 5 in the World Amateur Golf Rankings. T he 16-year-old Mangin bagged the gold in the women’s -49 kgs in the World Taekwondo Juniors Championships in Chuncheon, South Korea as Guce, Batang Manda and Abalos made their presence felt in the wonderful world of horse racing. G uce emerged as Jockey of the Year, Batang Manda as Horse of the Year, including winning the rich and prestigious Philippine Racing Commission-PCSO Presidential Gold Cup at Metro Turf Club in Malvar, Batangas, while Abalos is the Horse Owner of the Year.
NorthPort makes statement victory with stunner vs Ginebra
By Josef Ramos
NORTHPORT slayed Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Wednesday night and the Batang Pier are now beginning to prove that they’re for real.
“That was a statement game for us,” said NorthPort head coach Bonnie Tan after their 119-116 victory that stunned the Gin Kings’ two-win streak in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup at the PhilSports Arena.
We’re here to win,” Tan said.
The Batang Pier lead the conference with seven wins with only one loss, a record many felt would soon melt.
But Tan stresses otherwise.
“Everyone’s questioning the status of our team—that we’re not beating powerhouse teams,” said Tan, who has a championship with Letran in the collegiate rtanks. “I hope this win [over Ginebra] proved that we’re here to win games and be competitive.”
“If we can beat big teams, I’m sure we can bring this momentum and confidence playing against the top teams, he said, referring to two other powerhouse squads—Meralco, Magnolia, San Miguel Beer and TNT Tropang Giga—which they have yet to face in the eliminations.
match against former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin and is in the same section of the draw as four-time major winner Naomi Osaka and seventhseeded Jessica Pegula. No. 2 Iga Swiatek and 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina are on the other half of the draw.
The Australian Open starts Sunday morning in Melbourne (Saturday night EST in the US) and will run for 15 days.
Doping and the cases involving Sinner—which is still not fully resolved—and Swiatek was a topic that shadowed tennis in 2024 and is still a talking point in Melbourne.
T here’s plenty else for fans to talk about.
Djokovic will be playing in his first event alongside new coach Andy Murray, his former on-court rival and a threetime major champion. Nobody has won the men’s title at Melbourne Park more often than Djokovic, although he said he still feels trauma from the one year he wasn’t allowed to play. AP
THE US government did not pay the more than $3.6 million due to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in 2024, making good on a long-running threat anchored in unhappiness with the global watchdog›s handling of cases involving Chinese swimmers and others.
Those funds, normally distributed by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, represent about 6 percent of WADA’s annual budget.
WADA statutes say representatives of countries that don’t pay are not eligible to sit on the agency’s top decision-making panels. US drug czar Rahul Gupta is listed as a member of the WADA executive committee.
Gupta told The Associated Press the ONDCP was “evaluating all our options,” and did not rule out eventually sending the money to WADA.
WADA must take concrete actions to restore trust in the world antidoping system and provide athletes the full confidence they deserve,” he said. “When
US taxpayer dollars are allocated, we must ensure full accountability and it is our responsibility to ensure those funds are used appropriately.”
In 2022, when Gupta held out, then eventually directed his office to send the balance of its yearly contribution, he did so with reservations, along with a letter saying the US absence at the time from key policymaking positions was “a sorry state of affairs.”
Half of WADA’s budget is covered by the International Olympic Committee, with the other half covered by governments across the world, which receive 50 percent of the spots on key WADA governing committees.
The US contribution is double that of Canada, the home country for WADA that puts in the second most money among the more than 180 countries that contribute.
T he funding fight has been going on for at least the last six years, with the talking points not much different between the Trump and
Import Kadeem Jack, Arvin Tolentino and Joshua Munzon played big for NorthPort against Ginebra with Jack posting 32 points and 16 rebounds. Tolentino added 29 points on six triples and Munzon had 27 points, six assists and two steals.
Justine Brownlee had 23 points and 12 rebounds
least in the best-of-three series and hopefully to get the twice to beat advantage.” N orthport’s only setback was at the hands of Phoenix Super LPG, 115109, last December 17. “I think it just showed the level of maturity that we’ve
Biden administrations.
Dissatisfied over the handling of the Russian doping scandal, the first Trump White House started asking for reforms with the potential of tying them to its annual payment. More recently, WADA’s handling of cases involving 23 Chinese swimmers has been a focal point of criticism. A g overnment study that came out in 2020 concluded Americans didn’t get their money’s worth from the contribution. Shortly after, Congress gave the ONDCP discretion to withhold future funding. In between, tensions have grown between WADA and the US AntiDoping Agency (USADA), which runs the drug-fighting program in the United States. “Unfortunately, the current WADA leaders left the US with no other option after failing to deliver on several very reasonable requests, such as an independent audit of
AMIT BIADO JERUSALEM TADURAN
FIVB Executive Vice President and AVC and AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and Japan Minister and Consul General Takahiro Hanada with Alas Pilipinas members Thea Gagate, Dawn Catindig, Vince Lorenzo and EJ Casaña.
NORTHPORT head coach Bonnie Tan with his deputies Rensy Bajar and Jeff Napa.
