DBP TO SEEK REGULATORY,
TATE-RUN lender Development
SBank of the Philippines will again seek regulatory and dividend relief to build up its capital after infusing billions into Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC).
On the sidelines of the 2025 Annual Reception for the Banking Community, DBP President Michael O. de Jesus told reporters the bank will request the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to extend its regulatory relief.
Even though [we] will meet all the capital ratios, we still would seek [regulatory relief] for comfort,” de Jesus said.
The DBP will also seek dividend relief from Malacañang this year to augment its capital, according to de Jesus. This will allow DBP to declare and remit zero percent of its annual net
earnings to the national government.
To recall, the DBP and Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) contributed P25 billion and P50 billion, respectively, to the Bureau of t he Treasury as seed capital of the MIC, the manager of the country’s first sovereign wealth fund.
H owever, the move resulted in a reduction in the banks’ capital, which could make them nonc ompliant with the BSP’s capital requirements.
Th e DBP and Lank Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) sought regulatory relief previously in 2023 so t hat their contribution would not be deducted from their capital.
No request from LandBank ALSO at the BSP reception, LandBank
President and Chief Executive Officer Lynette V. Ortiz told reporters the bank will not seek a reprieve. If you look at our financials, we have no need for it. This is despite the P32 billion of dividends that we remitted to the government just last year and the P50 billion to [the MIC],” Ortiz said.
L andBank’s capital adequacy ratio (CAR), the measure of a bank’s financial health, stood at 16.42 percent while DBP’s level is at 14.78 p ercent as of the end of November 2024—both above the 10-percent regulatory threshold.
E arlier, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said DBP and L andBank must exit regulatory relief as soon as possible. While the establishment of the
MIC can help address the country’s investment needs; it should not come at the cost of a resilient financial system, sound regulatory framework, and level-playing field,” the IMF said. The IMF also prodded Philippine officials to restore the capitalization of the two state-owned banks after their investment in the MIC. De Jesus said DBP will be increasing its authorized capital
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
PTRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos said he is confident the country will retain the momentum of its economic growth and finally become an upper middle-income country this year.
The chief executive made the remark in his toast remarks during the Vin D’Honneur, where he hosted members of the diplomatic corps in Malacañang on Saturday.
“ We are confident that the country will be able to hit this year the GNI [gross national income] per capita range set by the World Bank to reach upper middle-income coun-
try [UMIC] status, coming off from an all-time-high record registered in 2023 to the tune of USD4,335 or PHP241,165.00,” Marcos said.
To sustain the country’s economic growth this year, he said the country will be attracting more foreign investments by accelerating infrastructure investments, enhancing the ease of doing business, and boosting national competitiveness.
A country needs to achieve gross national income (GNI) per capita income range of $4,466 to $13,845 to be classified upper-middle income. The government was initially
targeting to achieve upper-middle income status in 2020, but the Philippine economy contracted from the strict quarantine measures during the pandemic. Marcos said the projects will be funded through an increase in government revenue collection, which reached P4.42 trillion last year—the highest in the last 27 years—and through prudent and transparent debt management. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, early in my Presidency, I vowed to re-introduce the Philippines to the world and jumpstart meaning-
Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
This includes interest payments worth P2.017 billion for Treasury bills, P29.512 billion for fixed-rate Treasury bonds, P16.872 billion for retail Treasury bonds and P528 billion for other li abilities.
F oreign debt sources were also paid P17.724 billion in interest payments, 33.35 percent higher year-ony ear from P13.291 billion.
Meanwhile, amortization or the repayment of loan principal tripled to P27.051 billion in November 2024 from the P8.126 billion cleared a year ago.
T he government disbursed P18.297 billion to domestic lenders while the remaining P8.754 billion went to foreign financiers.
D uring the January to November 2024 period, the government paid off about P1.954 trillion of its debts. This is higher by 27.33 percent than the P1.534 trillion settled during the same period in 2023.
Th e amount also covered 96.39 percent of the total P2.027-trillion debt s ervice bill. This cleared P1.249 trillion in amortization and P705.334 billion in interest payments.
In the coming months, Ricafort said the future budget deficits will require additional government borrowings, further adding to the outstanding debt stock. The government’s outstanding debt reached a record-high P16.090 trillion as of the end of November 2024.
As more debt is incurred to bridge funding gaps, the corresponding debt servicing costs will rise, particularly as principal payments come due,” Ricafort added.
Citing wildfire crisis, US seeks reset of trilateral call
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
THE raging inferno in Los Angeles, California, which gutted over 12,000 structures, has prompted United States President Joe Biden to reschedule his planned trilateral phone call with President Ferdinand Marcos and Japan Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, according to Malacañang.
I n a brief Viber message to Palace reporters, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar B. Chavez disclosed that the US government requested for the last-minute rescheduling of the meeting, which was originally set for Sunday.
It was conveyed that this was due to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles,” he said.
Th e Palace official said the Trilateral Leaders’ Phone Call among the leaders of the three countries has been moved to 7 am, Manila time, on Monday, January 13.
Th e ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, which started last Tuesday, have killed 11 people as of press time and resulted in
economic damage of between US$135 billion and US$150 billion—making it the among the costliest natural disasters in US history, according to news reports.
US firefighters are still trying to contain the spread of the wildfire with still undetermined cause as of press time.
It is expected to be Biden’s last meeting with Marcos and Ishiba as US President before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. I n April 2024, Biden hosted the first ever Philippines-US-Japan summit in Washington D.C.
ment allowances, tax credits, and reduced royalties.
“ It is essential for resourcerich economies to create an attractive investment environment to mobilize private capital in support of the mining and processing of critical minerals, including the acquisition of technological innovations that can enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and support the development of new methods for resource extraction and refinement,” the report stated.
Undesa tagged nickel and cobalt among the critical minerals that could be mined and produced here.
Nickel in the country accounts for 3.7 percent of mineral reserves while cobalt accounts for 2.4 percent.
In terms of share of production, the report said nickel accounts for 11.1 percent while cobalt, 1.7 percent in the Philippines.
Nickel and cobalt, along with other critical minerals in Asia mined and produced in China, Indonesia, and the Philippines, can help attain no less than six SDGs.
Th ese are SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy; SDG 8, decent work and economic growth; SDG 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure; SDG 10 on reduced inequalities; SDG 12 on responsible consumption and production; and SDG 13, climate action.
However, Undesa said fiscal incentives may prove less effec -
to strengthen partnership among the three countries through economic and defense coordination amid the increasing aggression of China in the Indo-Pacific region.
D uring the meeting, the participants announced several joint initiatives, including the Luzon Economic Corridor and the Philippines-US-Japan humanitarian assistance and disaster response exercise.
Service Posts in North America, in Asia, and the Pacific this year.
“And by the end of 2025, we will have 102 Posts, effectively widening our reach globally,” Marcos said.
New Year Resolution
ASIDE from the diplomatic corps, the President also gave his New Year’s message to Filipinos, urging them to become more disciplined and patriotic as well as foster a culture of excellence.
He said Filipinos can achieve such goals through “simple resolutions” such as not engaging in gossip, following driver rules and regulations, and proper waste disposal.
A s for patriotism, he urged the public to become involved in their communities such as helping in improving their local schools such as building playgrounds and performing well in their jobs.
“ Discipline and excellence will have deeper meanings if it is anchored in love for the Philippines,” Marcos said in Filipino in a video message posted in his social media account.
If you put together all the Filipinos with similar behavior and love for the Philippines, it will become significant,” he added.
Marcos also shared his own personal New Year resolution to take better care of his health.
“ Because of my numerous tasks, I cannot [afford] to become sick,” he said.
M arcos fell ill several times since he assumed the presidency in 2022, which temporarily prevented him from working.
Samuel P. Medenilla
People are still dismayed by the government’s response to control the price of basic goods. In the Pulse Asia survey, 76 percent expressed dissatisfaction with the Marcos regime’s management of inflation.
A dmitting that the cost of goods remains high, Marcos as -
tive if there is political instability, inadequate infrastructure, and high business costs.
Th ese incentives could also reduce government revenues, “encourage profit-shifting, and hinder the ability of countries to mobilize domestic resources, particularly if fiscal incentives are overly generous.”
The effectiveness of using tax incentives to promote the advancement of critical minerals development is open to debate, and countries need to be cautious in implementing them and ensure that they are well targeted,” the report stated.
Economic growth
MEANWHILE , Undesa expects the country’s GDP growth for this year and next year to exceed 6 percent and be within the government’s targets.
Th e country’s GDP growth is expected to reach 6.1 percent this year and 6.2 percent next year.
The government aims to post a growth of 6 to 8 percent annually beginning in 2025 until 2028. For 2024, the country’s GDP is expected to average 5.6 percent which is below the 6 to 6.5 percent target of the government. The official GDP estimates will be released toward the end of the month.
The anticipated sustained growth reflects robust domestic demand, ongoing public investments, and the positive effects of recent investment policy reforms,
along with a vibrant labor market and a growing services sector,” Undesa Economic Affairs Officer Zhenqian Huang said. In 2025 and 2026, economic growth in the Philippines is expected to be fuelled by strong investment activity and robust private consumption,” she added.
Apart from these, Huang said monetary policy easing and slowing inflation will help support domestic demand along with remittance inflows that would boost household spending.
Huang said the improvement in the national government’s revenue collection in the past 10 years has allowed the public sector to address infrastructure bottlenecks.
S he also said the country’s merchandise trade will benefit from AI-related electronic products while services trade will benefit from the recovery of international tourism.
“However, the outlook also faces potential downside risks. Increasing trade tensions, including the possibility of higher tariffs, could undermine merchandise trade performance,” Huang said.
“Additionally, the Philippines is highly vulnerable to climate change, with more frequent and unpredictable natural disasters potentially leading to significant economic and social losses,” she also said.
While inflation is already trending downward, Huang said, inflationary pressures are not expected to “dissipate entirely.” Higher tariffs from its top trading partners as well as disruptions in supply chains and climate-related disasters could increase inflation anew.
inyong mga dinaing at hirap na dinaranas.”
sured in his third State of the Nation Address that the government is doing its best to alleviate Filipinos’ fears.
“ Mahal kong mga kababayan, alam kong damang-dama ninyo ito ,” the President said. “ Hindi natin winawalang-bahala ang
Inflation accelerated at 2.9 percent in December, bringing 2024’s annual average inflation to 3.2 percent, well within the government’s target of 2 to 4 percent.
A total of 1,200 people participated in the survey, conducted from November 10 to 16 last year with a +/-3 percent margin of error and a 95-percent confidence level. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Comelec, PNP set up more than 1,400 checkpoints as election period begins
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
AS the election period began on Sunday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in coordination with the National Police (PNP) established more than 1,400 checkpoints to enforce the strict implementation of the gun ban and ensure public safety throughout the electoral process.
In a press briefing, Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia reassured the public that the checkpoints are simply a routine part of the election process and should not cause fear or alarm.
“ Basta ang importante , hindi ito katakutan ng sambayanan Parte lang ito ng proseso ng halalan Ang importante pa rin , freely nakakapaglakad at nakakapagbyahe ang mamamayan nang hindi sila natatakot sa kanilang sariling katiwasayan ,” Garcia said.
Garcia explained that the 1,470 checkpoints have been strategically placed by the PNP in key areas, particularly in locations classified as areas of concern or hotspots.
Pwede pa itong madagdagan o
mabawasan depende sa assessment ng mga law enforcement agencies,” he added.
Last week, Comelec identified 403 hotspots for the 2025 elections.
Of these, 38 are under the red category, indicating areas with serious armed threats and a history of election-related incidents; 177 are under the orange category, denoting areas with significant armed threats; and 188 are under the yellow category, which covers areas with a history of electionrelated violence.
Meanwhile, 1,239 areas are classified under the green category, signifying no significant election-related security concerns.
Most areas under the red category are in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), with 32. There are two areas each in Cagayan Valley and the Bicol Region that are also considered hotspots.
For the orange category, the highest number of areas is in the Bicol Region at 48, followed by BARMM with 22, Caraga with 17, and Central Visayas with 16. Other regions have fewer orangetagged areas.
Areas under the yellow category are concentrated in BARMM with 49, followed by Northern Mindanao with 22, Ilocos Region with 19, and other regions with varying counts.
Hindi naman nangangahulugan na magulo agad ang mga lugar na ito. Maaaring may mga pangyayari lang kamakailan o noong nakaraan na election-related, kaya sila nalagay sa red category,” Garcia clarified.
Meanwhile, the PNP chief, Gen. Rommel Marbil appealed to the public for cooperation with checkpoint protocols, especially regarding the gun ban.
Doon sa mga valid na may license to own firearms, we will revoke your license kung mahulihan kayo . Suspended iyan . We’ll come up with a policy kung ilang taon bago kayo pwedeng mabigyan ulit [ng license] Just try us… habang buhay na kayong hindi magdadala ng baril ,” Marbil warned,
stressing that having a license does not automatically exempt someone from the gun ban.
Aside from certain government officials, only individuals with approved exemptions are allowed to carry firearms during the election period.
Checkpoint procedures
THE National Police also revealed the guidelines to ensure the smooth operation of checkpoints. These must be placed in well-lit areas with visible signage 30 meters away, stating “slow down, checkpoint ahead.”
Motorists will only undergo visual inspection or “eyeball checks,” with officers merely requiring windows to be rolled down. Vehicle interiors and trunks will not be inspected unless there is reasonable suspicion of illegal activity.
Motorists are also permitted to record the checkpoint procedure for their safety, while PNP officers are required to wear body cameras and bulletproof vests during inspections.
As of Sunday, four individuals have already been arrested for violating the gun ban, with cases recorded in BARMM, and Regions 12, 6, and 3.
Gun ban exemption applications will be accepted until the final two weeks of the election period, which will conclude on June 11. With Rex Anthony Naval
BRP Teresa Magbanua preventing Chinese ships from getting close to Zambales coast
By Rex Anthony Naval
BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV9701), one of the largest and most modern Coast Guard (PCG) ships in service, has proven effective in preventing illegally operating China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels from getting too near the Zambales coast.
“The PCG vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua has proven to be a formidable asset in ensuring that the CCG vessel 3304 is gradually pushed away from the coastline of Zambales, achieving a remarkable distance of up to 97 nautical miles offshore,” it said in a statement Saturday night.
The PCG also added that January 11 marks the eighth day of its
“unwavering monitoring and vigilant pursuit of CCG vessels illegally operating within the Philippines” exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Chinese ships were detected illegally operating in the Philippine EEZ on January 4. And due to the effectiveness of BRP Teresa Magbanua in its mission, the People’s Republic of China was forced to deploy the CCG 5901 also known as the Monster Ship due to its sheer size of 12,000 gross ton displacement on Saturday in an attempt to outmaneuver the PCG vessel.
The Chinese ship departed from Philippine territory in January 8 and was replaced by smaller CCG vessels.
“However, the dedication and vigilance of the officers and crew remain unwavering; no amount of intimidation from the China Coast Guard can deter their resolve,” the PCG said.
And despite the imposing size of the Chinese ship, the BRP Teresa Magbanua approached its starboard side at close range, effectively hindering the CCG vessel’s attempts to move towards the Zambales coastline.
“Currently, CCG-5901 has replaced CCG-3304 and is now positioned 97 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales. Furthermore, the PCG has consistently communicated over the radio, reminding the Chinese crew that
they are unlawfully operating within the Philippines’ EEZ and do not possess any legal authority to conduct maritime patrols,” it added.
As this developed, the PCG commandant, Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan, expressed admiration and trust in the gallant men and women of the BRP Teresa Magbanua
He believes they have fully grasped the President’s directives to maintain vigilance in accordance with the law while avoiding any escalation of tensions.
“The PCG remains committed to safeguard the country’s maritime jurisdiction and ensure the rule of law within Philippine waters,” it added. Rex Anthony Naval
Go continues support for Laoag scholars
SEN. Christopher Go reiterated his full support for the youth and their education in a message during the gathering of college students from Northern Christian College in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. on Thursday, January 9. Edukasyon ang susi sa mas magandang kinabukasan at ang kabataan natin ang pag-asa ng bayan at future leaders ng ating bansa ,” Go said. In coordination with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), he extended scholarships to students from Northern Christian College through its Tulong Dunong Program (TDP). The CHED-TDP aims to assist eligible Filipino students to
By Nonie Reyes
House intensifies oversight functions
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House of Representatives is intensifying its oversight functions to address rising food and electricity costs while ensuring accountability in the use of public funds, a leader of the House of Representatives said on Sunday.
Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. made the assurance as Congress resumes session on Monday following the Christmas break.
“We will strengthen the House’s oversight power to expose and eliminate irregular practices that burden our citizens. We will not allow these wrongful activities, which lead to high food and electricity prices, to continue,” Gonzales said.
The Quinta Commitee, or the Murang Pagkain Super Committee, is actively investigating agricultural smuggling, hoarding, and price manipulation, which have been identified as key factors driving food inflation. Related story on page A4
“We are uncovering the mechanisms that allow cartels to thrive, and this House is determined to dismantle these networks of greed,” Gonzales said.
Also, Gonzales said the House Committees on Ways and Means and on Legislative Franchises have been scrutinizing the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to ensure it meets its obligations, pays the proper taxes, and refrains from passing undue charges to consumers.
The Quad Committee, meanwhile, has been tackling critical issues, including illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos), their links to money laundering, and extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during the previous administration.
“This investigation is not just about accountability: It is about upholding human rights and protecting our national interests,” Gonzales said.
Another key investigation led by the Blue-Ribbon Committee has zeroed in on the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.
He also called attention to the alarming proliferation of vloggers and internet trolls maligning innocent people through fake news.On the legislative front, Gonzales lauded the House’s achievements under Speaker Martin Romualdez’s leadership.
“With 166 laws enacted, including 27 out of 28 Ledac [Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council] priority measures and 61 out of 64 priority measures under the CLA for the 19th Congress, the House has proven its ability to deliver results that directly benefit Filipinos,” Gonzales said.
Pending measures are also geared toward strengthening the economy and public welfare. Among these is House Bill 9729, which aims to enhance MSME productivity through shared-use equipment and resources.
Another key proposal seeks to provide incentives for barangay micro-businesses, encouraging them to register formally and gain access to government support.
Gonzales called this an important step in boosting grassroots entrepreneurship. In health, an amendment to the Universal Health Care Act is in the works to improve benefit packages and adjust premium contribution schemes.
The House is also deliberating on a National Flood Control Plan to address recurring flooding in disaster-prone areas.
Gonzales stressed the urgency of this measure, saying, “We need a comprehensive approach to mitigate flooding and help communities recover more quickly.”
Education remains a top priority, with several pending bills seeking to improve access and quality.
achieve their academic dreams, in line with the government’s mission to provide inclusive and quality education.
In his message to the scholars, emphasized the importance of education, encouraging the students to study hard as they represent the future of the nation. He acknowledged the scholars’ dedication.
“Education is the cornerstone of our nation’s progress. I stand firmly behind the growth and progress of our youth, as they are instrumental in shaping our future leaders,” said Go.
During the event, a total of 387 scholars also received snacks and other forms of support from Go’s Malasakit Team.
These include measures creating a private basic education voucher program, establishing a Bureau of Private Education, and granting free assessment fees for senior high school students in technical-vocational tracks.
As the 19th Congress enters its final stretch, Gonzales reaffirmed the House’s commitment to serving the Filipino people.
“Oversight and legislation are two sides of the same coin. Both are essential in ensuring that our people live better lives,” he said.
“Under Speaker Romualdez’s leadership, the House will continue to uphold accountability, pass impactful laws, and deliver results for the nation,” Gonzales expressed.
Murang Pagkain panel set to ramp up efforts against increase in food prices
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
AS the House of Representatives resumes session from the holiday break, the lead chairman of the House Murang Pagkain Supercommittee announced that the chamber will intensify efforts to address skyrocketing food prices, starting with rice, then focusing on chicken, pork, and vegetable cartels.
The House Committee on Ways and Means chairman, Albay Rep.
prices are at around US$427 to 500 per metric ton, which means the landed price should be at around P34 to 36 per kilo,” he added.
“One of the main drivers of the uptrend, we suspect, is overpricing by supermarkets, which sell on a per kilo basis at as much as P70 per kilo. This is unacceptable. The highest quality Thai indica rice is just at P41 per kilo once landed and imposed all applicable duties and taxes,” Salceda said.
He dismissed claims by supermarket representatives and the Bureau of Plant Industry that consumer preferences are driving high prices.
He emphasized that, based on import prices, current market rates for even the best-quality rice are unjustifiable.
out that sellers could still enjoy P17 to P23 profit per kilo
He said the supercommittee will examine the potential for setting a more appropriate price cap.
The lawmaker said the supercommittee is also set to scrutinize efforts to stabilize meat and vegetable prices.
Salceda flagged corn as a key issue, noting that its prices surged past general inflation by 2.1 percentage points last December, which directly affects meat prices.
“We will also aim for long-term efforts to keep vegetable prices affordable and stable—so that surpluses are not harmful to farmers, while deficits are addressed,” he added.
Neda releases ₧160-M from Innovation Fund
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE national government has released P160.1 million from its Innovation Fund, the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) reported.
The grants were extended between 2022 and 2023 and covered a total of 37 projects nationwide across the 10 Innovation Priority Areas.
Salceda said Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has directed the committee to take all necessary measures to reduce food prices for Filipino families.
Jose Clemente “Joey Sarte” Salceda said that the super panel will intensify its campaign to bring rice prices down, citing global rice prices reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at around US$427 to 500 per metric ton.
“Clearly, based on import prices, even the best quality rice should not be at these levels. I remind our resource persons that while I hesitated to cite invitees in contempt during the Christmas season, we are past that now,” he warned.
“We will intensify our fight to lower rice prices. As of the latest data from the Food and Agriculture Organization, global rice
He also questioned the Department of Agriculture’s proposed price cap of P58 per kilo, pointing
Salceda affirmed this, setting a goal to maintain food inflation within the government’s 2 percent to 4 percent target for the year.
“My commitment is to ensure affordable and stable food prices for every Filipino family,” he said.
Group alerts FDA over sale of 14 unauthorized cosmetics
Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
ATOXICS watchdog group has reported to the Food and Drug Administration that 14 unauthorized cosmetic products are being offered for sale in online and physical markets.
EcoWaste Coalition said nine of the 14 unauthorized products are being marketed as skin tone lighteners, or solutions to acne, age spots, blemishes, freckles, and wrinkles. All 14 contain high levels of mercury, the group said.
EcoWaste in a statement said it has notified the FDA, which has jurisdiction or regulatory powers over such products.
While mercury, a potent neurotoxin, is not a permissible ingredient in cosmetics, the EcoWaste Coalition continues to detect this highly toxic chemical in products that are marketed to lighten the skin tone and get rid of acne, age
spots, blemishes, freckles, and wrinkles.
“We have alerted our health product regulators as these cosmetics, the mercury-tainted ones in particular, pose serious health threats to users and members of their households, especially the children,” said Aileen Lucero, national coordinator of EcoWaste Coalition.
Of the 14 products, 12 were purchased from online sellers and two from a retail store in Pasay City.
Before notifying the FDA, the group screened the 14 items for mercury using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer, a handheld device used for a quick and non-destructive identification of various elements present on a sample.
As shown in the XRF screening, the following products are tainted with varying levels of mercury with three products containing mercury.
From China: Feique Papaya
Whitening & Freckle Eliminating Cream, 4,504 parts per million of mercury; Feique Papaya Whitening Anti-Freckle Package, 1,704 ppm (day), 2,256 ppm (night); Feique Papaya Krim Yang Membuat Kulit Anda Putih Dan Menghilangkan Noda Anda, 1,684 ppm (day), 2,344 ppm (night), not detected (pearl cream); Lijing High Effect Whitening & Anti-Spot Suit, not detected (day), 28 ppm (night); and Qian Li, 900 ppm (day), 2,512 ppm (night).
From Pakistan: Aima Gold Beauty Cream, 19,020 ppm; Armena Gold Beauty Cream, 11,940 ppm; and Zoya Gold Beauty Cream, 19,170 ppm.
From Thailand : Pumepime
Total White Underarm Cream, 2,248 ppm
MERCURY was not detected on these four unauthorized cosmetics: 88 Total White Underarm Cream (pink), Huashuzi Papaya Active Ferment Whitening Pack-
NHA releases ₧361-M financial aid in 2024
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
ATOTAL of P361 million was distributed by the National Housing Authority (NHA) in 2024 through its Emergency Housing Assistance Program (Ehap) to Filipino families affected by severe disasters. Ehap provides financial aid to help families whose houses were destroyed or damaged by as typhoons, fires, earthquakes, and floods.
“The NHA is one with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to help in the housing needs of our Filipino families through various’ programs and services,” said NHA General Manager Joeben Tai.
age, Lulanjina Sweetrip Whitening Freckle Removal Cream, and Teatrical Facial Cream.
The World Health Organization (WHO) earlier said, “adverse health effects of the inorganic mercury contained in skin lightening creams and soaps include: kidney damage, skin rashes, skin discoloration and scarring, reduction in the skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and peripheral neuropathy.”
“Mercury in soaps, creams, and other cosmetic products is eventually discharged into wastewater. The mercury then enters the environment, where it becomes methylated and can enter the food chain as highly toxic methylmercury in fish,” the WHO said.
“Pregnant women who consume fish containing methylmercury can transfer the mercury to their fetuses, which can result in neurodevelopmental deficits in the children,” the WHO warned.”
Toward the end of 2024, NHA Region 11 extended assistance to 35 families from Tarragona and two families from Lupon in Davao Oriental, who were affected by a fire.
Gerold Namoc, NHA District 2 officer-in-charge, distributed P10,000 in cash aid to each family. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
San Miguel cleans up, desilts Pampanga River
FOOD, power and infrastructure conglomerate San Miguel Corp. removed some 700,000 tons of silt and waste from the Pampanga River in a cleanup initiative meant to mitigate flooding throughout Luzon.
In a statement, SMC reported the removal of 694,372 cubic meters of silt and solid waste from 26.3 kilometers of the 260-kilometer Pampanga River as part of its Better Rivers PH initiative. Pampanga River, the second largest river in Luzon, flows through Pampanga, Bulacan, and Nueva Ecija. It serves as a major waterway in Central Luzon, with waters flowing downstream into Bulacan. Launched in 2020, Better Rivers PH has now covered a total of 156.42 kilometers of
waterways, removing a total of 8,348,440 metric tons of silt and solid waste as of January 2, the statement said.
SMC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ramon Ang said the project was carried out at no cost to the government and taxpayers. It effectively deepened the river’s channels and improved water flow into Manila Bay, he Ang said.
“Flooding is a major issue for our cities and provinces, with many contributing factors. For our part, we’re committed to do what we can to clean up our river systems and help the government and our communities,” Ang said.
“Since the river was already quite shallow due to siltation and pollution, during heavy rain, water would easily overflow in many
For 2022, there were a total of 12 projects that received grants amounting to P60.1 million while for 2023, there were 25 projects that received P100 million in grants.
“We are fully committed to create the right environment— through sound policy frameworks, cutting-edge infrastructure, accessible financial support, and reliable platforms for collaboration and knowledge exchange,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and National Innovation Council (NIC) vice chairman Arsenio M. Balisacan said in the NIC report.
“These innovation levers aim to support and encourage more innovators, especially among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to venture into innovative products, processes, or services,” he added.
The report, released by Neda, showed that the highest grant reached P10 million and the lowest was P281,650, both extended in 2022.
The project that received the highest grant was the “Grassroots Innovation for Inclusive Development (GRIND): Bringing Science and Technology (S&T) closer to the Margins of the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office XI.”
The smallest grant was extended to South Cotabato State College for its project titled “Improvement of the Single Row Push-type Plot Seeder with Mechatronic Seed Feeding Device for Corn (Zea Mays L.) Field Breeding Experiment.”
For 2023, the report stated that four projects received P5 million each, the highest for that year. The smallest grant for that year was at P558,180.
The projects that received P5 million each were the
areas, affecting farmlands and communities and even contributing to flooding in other areas. So, it was imperative for us to come here and help clean up the river,” he added.
Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda acknowledged SMC’s efforts and said the cleanup and deepening of the downstream Pampanga River, particularly around the towns of Macabebe and Masantol, will significantly help in reducing floodwaters faster.
“Bibilisnapoangpaglabasngtubig-baha saPampanga. Nalinisatnapalalimnakasiang downstream Pampanga River sabandangMacabebe at Masantol. Halos 700,000 tonelada ng putik at basura ang tinanggal ng SMC sa proyektonitong Better Rivers PH. Ginawapo ito ng SMC ng libre, gaya ng aking pakiusap noong
(The
“Artificial Intelligence for Impact-Based Forecasting and Early Warning System for Inclusive Finance and Strengthening of Local Economic Development in RiceBased Farming Communities” of the Philippine Rice Research Institute and the “Strengthening Institutional Capacities of Potential UNESCO Creative Cities in the Philippines through the Innovation and Creative Entrepreneurship Program” of the Department of Trade and Industry.
The list also includes the “Filipino Anaplastology and Reconstructive Manufacturing Center” of the University of the Philippines Manila-Philippine General Hospital and the “Establishment of a Bamboo Processing School Factory for Manufacturing EngineeredBamboo and Steel Student Desks and Chairs” of the Romblon State University.
The smallest grant in 2023 was extended to the Innovation Camp for Grade 5 Students of Cordillera Administrative Region by the Philippine Science High School—CAR Campus.
“To operationalize the fund, the FY 2021 General Appropriations Act authorized the appropriation of P200 million. Subsequently, an additional P100 million was allocated under the FY 2023 GAA,” the report added.
“These budget allocations are the lifeblood of the Innovation Grants, driving innovation projects forward.” Extending innovation grants provided under Republic Act 11293, known as the Philippine Innovation Act, is one of the measures the government has taken to transform the country into a smart and innovative Philippines.
The Neda said through these efforts the country improved its Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking, climbing three notches from 59th to 56th among 132 economies, surpassing the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 target for the year.
The key factors contributing to this include improvements in the government effectiveness and regulatory quality under the Institutions pillar of the GII, moving up to 79th from 90th in 2022.
now recede fast as the downstream of the Pampanga River around Macabebe and Masantol has been cleaned and deepened. Almost 700,000 tons of mud and garbage were removed by SMC through its Better Rivers PH project. SMC did it for free, as I requested when Ang and I met.) Macabebe Vice Mayor Vince Flores said the dredging of the Pampanga River is not just a cleanup but also a boost to their local economy. Flores said that the extracted silt has been used to reinforce dikes, coastal roads, and elevate infrastructure including schools. “It’s a lifeline for a
Interventions to counter high rice prices–DA
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has expanded the distribution network of its cheaper rice programs as part of efforts to counter “unreasonably high” retail prices of the food staple.
The DA said it has expanded the Rice-for-All program by opening additional Kadiwa ng Pangulo kiosks in public markets and train stations.
It added collaborating with local government units (LGUs) nationwide to distribute rice at “fair prices,” including its P29 rice program for vulnerable sectors.
Agriculture Francisco Tiu
Laurel Jr. said these initiatives also aim to ensure equitable access, particularly for economically disadvantaged households
“We are ensuring that rice reaches every Filipino household at fair and affordable prices, starting with key markets in Metro Manila and, eventually, other regions,” he said in a statement.
Under the Rice-for-All program,
Biden moves to curb cooking oil imports with green fuel rule
THE United States is moving to curb imports of used cooking oil, preventing foreign supplies used to make biofuels from qualifying for a lucrative tax credit.
In long-awaited guidance, the US Treasury signaled that fuels made with foreign-sourced supplies won’t be allowed under the so-called GREET model, a Department of Energy tool used to determine the full sweep of greenhouse gases emitted from the transportation and energy industries.
The move comes after a flood of supplies from China reached US shores at cheaper prices than soybean oil produced locally. The decision is a win for American farmers, who have been counting on a boom in soy-heavy biofuels like renewable diesel to sell their crops.
Soybean oil futures for March jumped by the exchange limit in Chicago on Friday, surging 7 percent, the most since June 2023. Shares of Bunge Global SA, the world’s biggest oilseed processor, gained 5 percent. The joint owners of Diamond Green Diesel, North America’s biggest renewable-diesel maker, jumped, with Darling Ingredients Inc. surging as much as 10 percent and Valero Energy Corp. climbing as much as 4 percent.
“This tax credit is essential to US competitiveness and to reduce emissions in the transportation sector with more affordable, cleaner fuel,” US Deputy Energy Secretary David Turk said in a statement. “The final guidance released today provides clarity and certainty to America’s worldleading biofuel industry.”
The tax incentive that took effect on Jan.
1 is part of President Joe Biden’s signature climate law, the Inflation Reduction Act. While the guidance gives Donald Trump—a supporter of fossil fuels—something to work from, it’s unclear how far he will take his pledge to roll back the IRA.
US biofuels and corn groups criticized the overall guidance as lacking details on what qualifies for tax credits.
Geoff Cooper, chief executive officer of ethanol trade group Renewable Fuels Association, said it fell short of expectations and doesn’t give producers of corn-based
US ethanol the certainty they seek. Emily Skor, CEO of ethanol lobbying group Growth Energy, said the guidance “still lacks the critical details that are needed to help ensure that American biofuel producers and their farm partners can lead the world in clean fuel production.”
The National Corn Growers Association said more clarity is needed about the specific environmental practices that will be required for accessing the credit.
“What a missed opportunity for growers,” said President Kenneth Hartman Jr., an Illinois farmer.
Ethanol is among the ingredients that can be used in making green jet fuel. The $54 billion industry is counting on new markets like sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, to boost demand at a time when the rise of electric vehicles poses an existential threat to liquid fuels, especially those used to power light-duty automobiles.
The issue of foreign used cooking oil has been a growing concern of agriculture groups and lawmakers over the past year. Growers bristled as they saw soybean prices plunge as UCO from Asia flowed into the country for making fuels like renewable diesel and SAF. Fuel made with UCO is highly valued in lowcarbon fuel markets like California because of its relatively small carbon footprint.
Adding to the outcry was suspicion that China shippers were adding fresh palm oil to UCO, making it fraudulent under US renewable fuel law. Palm, the world’s most widely used vegetable oil, is a bane to environmentalists and many countries because the industry is a key driver of deforestation in places like Indonesia and has been tied to labor abuses.
The Treasury rules issued on Friday allow fuels made with UCO from the US to qualify for the 45Z credit, which provides a per-gallon, or gallon-equivalent, tax credit for makers of so-called clean transportation fuels based on the carbon intensity of production.
Under a rival model, the globally accepted Corsia standard established by the United Nation’s governing body for aviation, green jet fuel made with foreign feedstocks would have access to the credit. Bloomberg News
Filipino consumers can purchase rice at P45 per kilo for 5 percent broken grains, P40 for 25 percent broken, and P36 for 100 percent broken also known as “Sulit Rice.”
The P29 rice program serves indigents, senior citizens, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and indigenous communities, with a 10-kilo monthly limit per beneficiary.
The DA has also partnered with the Metro Manila Development Council in engaging LGUs across the National Capital Region (NCR) to sell National Food Authority (NFA) rice stocks at P38 per kilo.
It added that this would offer consumers additional affordable option while helping decongest NFA warehouses ahead of the palay harvest.
MSRP for imports
THE agency recently said that beginning January 20, it will impose a maximum suggested
retail price (MSRP) of P58 per kilo for premium imported rice with no more than 5 percent broken grains.
The MSRP, which will initially be implemented in Metro Manila, will be reviewed monthly. It added that this would cap the profit
margins of importers, traders, and retailers at P10 per kilo. Laurel also noted that global trends could lower the MSRP by February.
The DA warned that retailers exceeding the MSRP must justify their prices to authorities.
It added that the agency and the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will recommend to the president imposing a price ceiling if rice prices remain excessively high, with strict penalties for violators.
“We are committed to bringing down prices to benefit all Filipinos,” Laurel said.
He also announced that rice that has been stored by the NFA for at least two months will be available for resale to local government units in Metro Manila at P38 per kilo.
“This initiative will help the NFA clear its warehouses in preparation for the upcoming harvest season,” he said.
“Our warehouses are filled to capacity, and I have directed NFA administrator Larry Lacson to have the rice milled immediately so we can saturate the market with fairer-priced rice as we make space for the palay we plan to procure at a minimum of P23 per kilo for clean and dry this season.”
‘Weak PHL demand weighs on Vietnam rice exports’
VIETNAMESE rice export prices declined by as much as $59 per metric ton (MT) since December due to tepid demand in the Philippines, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
In its latest report, the USDA said that since last month, global export quotes continued to decline except for Pakistan whose quotation remained at $452 per MT despite large sales to Indonesia.
“Vietnamese quotes decreased $59 to $449/ton reflecting weaker demand from its core market, the Philippines,” the international agency said.
It added that a low rice export price was also recorded in Thailand.
“Thai quotes dropped $20 to $494/ton with lower demand from traditional markets awaiting the
new crop.”
Aside from these countries, the USDA also noted declines in rice prices such as in India, the United States, and Uruguay.
“India quotes are down slightly, dropping $4 to $444/ton,” the international agency said.
“US prices dropped $5 to $727/ ton and Uruguayan quotes fell $8 to $700/ton on weaker sales to Latin America.”
Vietnam and Thailand are the Philippines’s two largest suppliers of imported rice, with shipments from both countries accounting for over 4 million metric tons (MMT), based on data from the Bureau of Plant Industry.
The Philippines’s rice import arrivals have reached an all-time high of 4.68 MMT in 2024, government data showed.
“Global trade is forecast down based on reduced import demand
for Indonesia and Bangladesh, balanced with lower exports from Vietnam and Thailand,” the USDA said.
The international agency adjusted downward Thailand and Vietnam’s rice exports to 7.5 MMT in 2025 due to reduced demand from Indonesia.
Meanwhile, the USDA also forecasts a downturn in global rice production for the marketing year 2024/25 based on reduced estimates for China and Bangladesh.
It added that global consumption and stocks are forecast lower based on downward revisions for China.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported recently that domestic rice prices were lower in December.
The latest data from the PSA showed that the average whole -
sale price of regular milled rice dropped by 5.9 percent to P43.14 per kilo last month, from 45.83 per kilo a year ago.
The fastest decline in regular milled rice was recorded in Soccsksargen where the quotation of the staple fell by 9.8 percent to P41.87 per kilogram, from P46.41 per kg in the previous year. This was followed by Western Visayas where the prices dipped by 9.1 percent last month to P39.32 per kilo from P43.27 per kilo in December 2023.
Based on PSA data, the average price in December was also 1.7 percent lower than the P43.89 per kilo recorded in November.
Meanwhile, the PSA said the price of well-milled rice also shrank by 4.1 percent to P47.08 per kilo last month, from P49.11 a year ago. Ada Pelonia
Nickel prices seen improving with Indonesia’s plan to cut mines output
CUTS in the output of Indonesia’s nickel mines may reduce global supply, but this could benefit the Philippines, one of the world’s top nickel ore producers.
Dan Smith, head of research at Amalgamated Metal Trading Ltd., said Indonesia’s plan to cut nickel mine production would arrest the slide in nickel prices.
“Indonesia is planning to act as a swing producer. The main impact of this will be to limit the downside for nickel prices,” Smith told the BusinessMirror via email.
He noted that Indonesia’s policies, including mining quotas and export controls, affect the Philippines’s part in the global nickel market. Indonesia is the world’s largest producer of the base metal.
“The Philippines’s role in the nickel market is influenced by Indonesian policies, including mining quotas and export controls. The consistent supply of nickel ore from the Philippines has mitigated some impacts of Indonesia’s tightened domestic ore market.”
Last year, Bloomberg reported that nickel smelters in Indonesia face a shortage of ore due to government licensing issues, which drove up imports from the Philippines.
“The Philippines continues to be a significant supplier of nickel ore to Indonesia, which is a major producer of nickel pig iron (NPI),” Smith said.
He added that in 2024, the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) received around 4 million
metric tons (MMT) of nickel ore from the Philippines during the January to September period.
“The easing of ore tightness in late 2024 was partly attributed to steady supply from the Philippines.”
The World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) said the Philippines was the top exporter of nickel ores and concentrates in 2023, with Zimbabwe and United States trailing behind.
“While Indonesian nickel ore processing capacity expands, the Philippines faces pressure to enhance its value chain by processing more ore domestically rather than relying solely on raw exports,” Smith said.
Bloomberg reported that the Indonesian government is mulling over slashing its nickel
mining quotas to 150 MMT this year from 272 MMT in 2024 to boost slumping prices.
The World Bank recently noted that the average price of nickel plunged last year, with the annual quotation slumping by 21.87 percent to $16,814 per metric tons (MT) in 2024 from $21,521 per MT in the previous year. In a report last October 2024, the World Bank stated that international demand for nickel is expected to increase steadily in the coming years, supported by the production of stainless steel and batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).
“Following an expected 21 percent plunge in 2024 (y/y), nickel prices are forecast to rebound by 3 percent in 2025 and 6 percent in 2026.” Ada Pelonia
20 join search for Cebu City’s 10 outstanding farmers
CEBU CITY—Twenty
individuals are nominated in the search for “Ten Outstanding Farmers” award in this capital city, an official said on Friday.
Councilor Pastor Alcover Jr., chair of the committee on agriculture of the City Council, said that evaluators from the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Central Visayas and the City Agriculture Department
(CAD) are now assessing the nominations.
The search focuses on the capability of farmer-nominees to integrate technology in their effort to get higher yields, Alcover said.
“We have to mechanize our agricultural industry to produce more. Dili na ‘ta mogamit sa kinaraan nga pamaagi sa pagpanguma; dili nata mogamit og mga guna, piko sa pagbugwal
sa yuta (We no longer use the old method of farming; We don’t use bolo, pickaxes to till the land),” Alcover said.
He said the city has ensured that the nominees’ sustainable practices, community impact, and reliable income generation for their families will become a model to other farmers.
According to Arlie Gesta, officer-in-charge of CAD, the nominees were also graded on their sustainable farming practices, innovation, and how they shared their knowledge with other farmers.
Twenty-eight mountainous barangays submitted names for the honor across various categories, including vegetable farming, livestock rearing, corn farming, flower cultivation, mango farming, and ornamental plant growing. PNA
PYARELAL , left and Praveen Upreti, field coordinator, Social Development For Communities Foundation, collect used cooking oil at a restaurant in Dehradun, India, on
PHOTO BY NONIE REYES
Netanyahu sends Mossad director to Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar in sign of progress
By Wafaa Shurafa & Natalie Melzer The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip—Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is sending the director of the Mossad foreign intelligence agency to ceasefire negotiations in Qatar, his office said Saturday, in a sign of progress in talks on the war in Gaza.
It was not immediately clear when David Barnea would travel to Qatar’s capital, Doha, for the latest round of indirect talks between Israel and the Hamas militant group, but there is US pressure for a deal before the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20. Barnea’s presence means high-level Israeli officials who would need to sign off on any agreement are now involved.
Just one brief ceasefire has been achieved in 15 months of war, and that was in the earliest weeks of fighting. The talks mediated by the United States, Egypt and Qatar have repeatedly stalled since then.
Under discussion is a phased ceasefire, with Netanyahu signaling he is committed only to the first phase, a partial hostage release in exchange for a weekslong halt in fighting.
Hamas has insisted on a full Israeli troop withdrawal from the largely devastated territory, but Netanyahu has insisted on destroying Hamas’ ability to fight in Gaza. On Thursday, Gaza’s Health Ministry said over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war, the majority women and children, though it doesn’t say how many were fighters or civilians.
Also being sent to Qatar are the head of Israel’s Shin Bet internal security agency and
military and political advisers. Netanyahu’s office said the decision followed a meeting with his defense minister, security chiefs and negotiators “on behalf of the outgoing and incoming US administrations.”
The office also released a photo showing Netanyahu with President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who was in Qatar this week.
Families of the roughly 100 hostages still held in Gaza after being seized in the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attack that sparked the war are pressing Netanyahu to reach a deal to bring their loved ones home. Israelis rallied again on Saturday night in the city of Tel Aviv, with photos of hostages on display.
“We join together in the hope that the talks in Doha succeed,” outgoing US Ambassador Jack Lew said at the rally. “We’re encouraged by the news today, but we know we can’t stop.”
The recovery of two hostages’ bodies in the past week renewed fears that time is running out. Hamas has said that after months of heavy fighting, it isn’t sure who is alive or dead.
“Return with an agreement that ensures the return of all hostages, down to the last one—the living for rehabilitation and the deceased for proper burial in their homeland,” said a statement by a group representing some
hostages’ families.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said this week a deal is “very close” and he hoped to complete it before handing over diplomacy to the incoming Trump administration. But US officials have expressed similar optimism on several occasions over the past year. Issues in the talks have included which hostages would be released in the first part of a phased ceasefire deal, which Palestinian prisoners would be released and the extent of any Israeli troop withdrawal from population centers in Gaza.
The toll
H A MAS a nd other groups killed some 1,200 people and took about 250 hostages into Gaza in the attack that started the war. A truce in November 2023 freed more than 100 hostages, while others have been rescued or their remains have been recovered over the past year.
Israel’s military announced the deaths of four soldiers in northern Gaza on Saturday, without details. At least 400 soldiers have been killed in the war. Six others were killed this week in largely isolated northern Gaza, where Israel has been pressing an offensive against regrouping Hamas militants.
The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants during the war, without providing evidence.
Inside Gaza O N Saturday, an airstrike killed a 5-year-old g irl and two male relatives in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, according to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where an AP team saw them.
The girl’s body, in a pink sweater, was wrapped in foil and placed on the floor of the morgue. Her father knelt and pressed his face to hers. “God!” he cried. Another Israeli airstrike killed at least eight Palestinians—including two children and two women—in a school-turned-shelter in northern Gaza, according to the Civil Defense, first responders affiliated with the Hamas-run government. It said the strike on the Halawa school that shelters displaced people in the Jabaliya area also wounded 30 others, including 19 children.
Israel’s military said it struck a Hamas command center at a former school in Jabaliya, without giving evidence.
And a strike killed four people on a street in Gaza City, said Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal. Overall, Gaza’s Health Ministry said at least 32 bodies had arrived at hospitals in the past 24 hours.
“I ask the world, do you hear us? Do we exist?” said Hamza Saleh, one of the vast majority of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents who have been displaced. He spoke on Friday in the southern city of Khan Younis as children and others jostled for food aid, while hunger grows. Melzer reported from Nahariya, Israel.
Tensions rise between LA fire chief Kristin Crowley and Mayor Karen Bass amid historic wildfire crisis
By Maryclaire Dale The Associated Press
Kristin Crowley was elevated to l o s Angeles fire chief in 2022 at a time of turmoil in a department consumed by complaints of rampant hazing, harassment and discrimination among its 3,400-member ranks. As a career firefighter, she was portrayed by the then-mayor as a stabilizing force.
t h ree years later, the mood between Crowley and City h a ll has changed.
t h e wildfire in Pacific Palisades that has burned more than 5,000 structures to become the most destructive in city history has put leaders on the defensive and led Crowley to engage in a public spat with m a yor Karen b a ss over resources even as the battle against flames continues across the l o s Angeles area.
Crowley publicly criticized the city Friday for budget cuts that she said have made it harder for firefighters to do their jobs at a time when they are seeing more calls. s h e also cast blame on the city for water running out tu esday when about 20% of the hydrants tapped to fight the Palisades fire went dry.
m not a politician, i m a public servant. i t ’s my job as the fire chief for l o s Angeles city fire dept to make sure our firefighters have exactly what they need to do their jobs,” she told C nn
h e r comments and perceived falling-out with b a ss prompted so much speculation about her job security that the union issued a statement Friday assuring rank-and-file members that she had not been fired.
t h e following day the mayor sought to tamp
down the tension.
l e t me be clear about something: t h e fire chief and i are focused on fighting these fires and saving lives, and any differences that we might have will be worked out in private,” b a ss said at a news conference. “ b u t right now our first and most important obligation to Angelenos is to get through this crisis.”
t h is followed several days of Crowley getting swept into the national political fray over diversity, equity and inclusion policies that conservatives believe have gone too far in American institutions. Crowley, who is openly gay and the city’s first female fire chief, has made diversifying the overwhelmingly male department a priority.
w hat w e are seeing (was) largely preventable,” talk show host m e gyn Kelly said on her show. “ l A’s fire chief has made not filling the fire hydrants top priority, but diversity.”
t h ere’s no evidence that Crowley’s efforts to diversify the department have hampered the fight.
t h e l o s Angeles d e partment of wat er and Power is in charge of providing water for the hydrants, and its leaders have said they were overwhelmed by the intense demand on a municipal system not designed to fight wildfires, particularly as firefighting aircraft was grounded. Gov. Gavin n e wsom has ordered an investigation into what happened, and Crowley herself added to the criticism.
w h en a firefighter comes up to a hydrant, we expect there’s going to be water,” she said during a local news interview.
Philadelphia m ana ging d rector Adam K. t h iel, who previously served as that city’s fire commis -
sioner, suggested that people reserve judgment until the fires can be investigated. h e n oted that firefighters cannot control the weather, a key factor in battling wildfires.
“Firefighting, to a regular person, probably appears to be a relatively simple process of putting water on a fire,” said t h iel, who knows Crowley and praised her experience. “ i n reality every firefighting operation, in any environment, is inherently volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous.” Former l o s Angeles m a yor e r ic Garcetti appointed Crowley to the job amid complaints about a frat house culture in the department that was sometimes hostile to women and minorities. s e veral lawsuits alleged hazing and harassment, and federal investigators found evidence of discrimination.
At the time Crowley was sworn in, women accounted for just 3.5 percent of the uniformed membership, a figure that’s not unusual for a department. A survey found that half the uniformed women in the department—along with 40 percent of b l acks, n a tive h a waiians and Pacific i sl anders—felt harassment was a problem.
Crowley, whose wife is a retired firefighter, told the l o s Angeles t mes in 2022 that she planned to ensure all of employees “come to work and feel safe and feel heard.” tw o years later, she was facing budget cuts that she warned could hamper the department’s ability to respond to emergencies, including wildfires. s he highlighted the elimination of civilian positions and $7 million in overtime pay. Associated Press reporter Zeke Miller in Washington contributed.
The body of Dima e d, 5, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike, is brought to Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir Al-Balah, Gaza on Saturday, January 11, 2025. AP Photo/Abdel
N. Korean troops in Ukraine gain battlefield experience, raising global security concerns
By Hanna Arhirova
The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—For weeks, Ukrainian troops braced for an unfamiliar enemy:
North Korean soldiers sent to bolster Moscow’s forces after Ukraine launched a lightningfast incursion and seized territory in Russia’s Kursk region over the summer. Their arrival marked a new and alarming phase in the war. And while initially inexperienced on the battlefield, North Korean troops have adapted quickly—a development that could have far-reaching consequences as they gain combat knowledge in the war against Ukraine.
Unlike the Russian troops Ukraine has been battling for nearly three years, Kyiv’s forces were uncertain about what to expect from this new adversary, drawn into the war after Moscow and Pyongyang signed an agreement pledging military assistance using “all means” if either were attacked.
One Ukrainian soldier who has witnessed North Koreans in battle described them as disciplined and
highly methodical, saying they were more professional than their Russian counterparts. The soldier spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the sensitive military issue.
However, other soldiers, including Ukrainian special forces, have shared battlefield drone footage on the Telegram messaging app mocking their tactics as outdated. Nevertheless, there is consensus among Ukrainian soldiers, military intelligence and others monitoring developments on the ground: While Pyongyang’s troops lacked battlefield experience when they arrived, that has been changing quickly.
With 1.2 million troops, North Korea’s military ranks among the largest standing armies globally. But its post-Korean War foreign engagements have been limited, leaving them inexperienced with modern warfare technologies like drones.
“For the first time in decades, the North Korean army is gaining real military experience,” said Andrii Yusov, spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence agency. “This is a global challenge—not just for
Ukraine and Europe, but for the entire world.”
Identifying the presence of North Korean troops
DE s P ITE U krainian, U s and s o uth Korean assertions that Pyongyang has sent 10,000-12,000 troops to fight alongside Russia in the Kursk border region, Moscow has never publicly acknowledged the North Korean forces.
While reports of their presence first emerged in October, Ukrainian troops only confirmed engagement on the ground in December.
Analysts say that without the influx of North Korean troops, Russia would have struggled to pursue its strategy of overwhelming Ukraine by throwing large numbers of soldiers into the battle for Kursk.
While Moscow’s counterattack in Kursk has inflicted thousands of Ukrainian casualties, Kyiv’s overstretched forces have managed to hold on to about half of the 984 square kilometers (380 square miles) seized in August, though the situation remains dynamic. Besides the symbolic impact of Ukraine’s success capturing Russian territory, control
Canada’s former leader Chrétien has blunt advice for Trump: ‘Give your head a shake!’
By Jim Morris
The Associated Press
ANCOUVER, British Columbia—
Vresident-elect Donald Trump’s remarks that Canada should become the 51st state drew condemnation and a patriotic outburst on Saturday from a former Canadian prime minister who offered blunt advice to the incoming US leader: “Give your head a shake!” Jean Chrétien, who was Canada’s prime minister from 1993 to 2003, joined a chorus of officials from the northern US neighbor who say Trump’s remarks are no longer a joke and may undermine America’s closest ally. Canada would never agree to become part of the United States, Chrétien wrote in an article published in The Globe and Mail newspaper, celebrating his 91st birthday. He extolled his nation’s love of in -
dependence and said Trump’s remarks amounted to “totally unacceptable insults and unprecedented threats” to Canadian sovereignty.
“To Donald Trump, from one old guy to another, give your head a shake!” Chrétien said. “What could make you think that Canadians would ever give up the best country in the world—and make no mistake that is what we are—to join the United States?
Trump has tossed expansionist rhetoric not just at Canada but also at other US allies, with arguments that the frontiers of American power need to be extended to the Danish territory of Greenland, and southward to include the Panama Canal. And while many European leaders have been measured in their response, Canadians have not held back.
“If you think that threatening and insulting us is going to win us over, you really don’t know a thing about
Winter storm wreaks havoc in US South: Flights canceled, roads remain dangerous
By Jeff Amy & Ben Finley The Associated Press
TLANTA—Flight cancellations
Apiled up and officials warned of continuing dangerous roads Saturday in the wake of a winter storm that brought biting cold and wet snow to the US South, leading to school closures and disrupting travel.
The storm was moving out to sea off the East Coast on Saturday, leaving behind a forecast for snow showers in the Appalachian Mountains and New England. But temperatures were expected to plunge after sundown in the South, raising the risk that melting snow will refreeze, turning roadways treacherously glazed with ice.
“I definitely don’t think everything’s going to completely melt,” said Scott Carroll, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Atlanta. “Especially the secondary roads will probably still have some slush on them.”
Major roads mostly clear, but tieups at affected airports remain M A IN t horoughfares were mostly clear, but traffic remained light Saturday. The Atlanta Hawks postponed their scheduled afternoon game against the Houston Rockets, citing the icy conditions.
Major airports including those in Atlanta and Charlotte, North Carolina, continued to report disruptions. While flights were operating, airlines canceled
and delayed more flights after Friday’s weather slowed travel to a crawl.
By Saturday afternoon about 1,000 flights in and out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport were canceled or delayed, according to tracking software FlightAware. Security lines in the terminal were also extremely long. Sarah Waithera Wanyoike, who lives in the Atlanta suburb of Lilburn, arrived at the world’s busiest airport before sunrise Friday to catch an Ethiopian Airlines flight to her job in Zimbabwe.
The plane boarded after a delay but never left, discharging passengers back to the gate after taxiing around for six hours. Wanyoike said her luggage remained on the plane and she dared not try to go home because she was told to be back at the gate before dawn.
“People slept with their babies on the floors last night,” Wanyoike said Saturday.
Delta Air Lines, the largest carrier at the airport, said Saturday that it was “working to stabilize” operations at its Atlanta hub and anticipated “resumption of reliable service this weekend.”
Richmond drops boil-water advisory after nearly a week
V IR GINIA S c apital lifted the advisory Saturday morning, nearly a week after a snow storm cut power and caused a malfunction to the city’s water system.
Mayor Danny Avula said lab tests confirmed that the water is safe to drink,
of Kursk could also be a bargaining chip in any ceasefire negotiations.
According to Ukraine’s intelligence agency, the North Korean soldiers are operating alongside Russian units, with the latter providing reconnaissance and electronic warfare support.
The North Koreans wear Russian military uniforms with fake military IDs in their pockets, according to a report by a Ukrainian military unit that has observed them on the battlefield, and they could easily be mistaken for Russian soldiers.
The subterfuge means Moscow and “its representatives at the UN can deny the facts,” said Yusov, the Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson.
Among the things proving their presence is that they have been heard speak-
ing Korean with North Korean accents in intercepted communications, Yusov said.
He said the North Korean troops are using their own weapons and equipment and have learned to cope with the improvised explosives-laden drones that have become emblematic of the war, first-hand experience even some NATO-member countries don’t have.
“This is a new level of threat,” Yusov said. “Regional countries must prepare for what this means in the future.”
North Koreans gain invaluable experience on the battlefield
T HE N orth Koreans’ early missteps were largely caused by inexperience, such as moving in large groups in open terrain, making them easy targets for drones and artillery strikes.
According to the Ukrainian military unit’s report, the North Korean soldiers were spotted easily as they moved in single-file columns through forest in groups of three, with 3 to 5 meters (yards) between soldiers. On
open terrain, they moved in dispersed formations of five to 15 soldiers, making them vulnerable and leading to heavy losses.
However, during night operations, their movements were swift and units oriented themselves using red flashlights along routes, the report said.
“They’re fast, physically well-prepared, and act strictly according to their algorithms,” said the Ukrainian soldier who spoke to the AP. “If you drill the same routines for years, to the point where they can be executed blindfolded, it will yield results.”
Despite their discipline, their lack of combat experience hindered their effectiveness. The Ukrainian military reported that North Korean troops often sustained heavy losses, with many killed by drones.
On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy put the number of killed or wounded North Koreans at 4,000, though U s estimates are lower, at around 1,200. Associated Press r eporters Tong-hyung Kim in Seoul, South
rea, and Michael Weissenstein at
Nations contributed.
us,” Chrétien wrote in the article. “We may look easy-going, mild-mannered. But make no mistake, we have spine and toughness.”
The US imports approximately 60% of its crude oil from Canada, which is also the top export destination for 36 US states. Nearly $3.6 billion Canadian ($2.7 billion) worth of goods and services cross the border each day.
Canadian officials have been talking to incoming Trump administration officials about increasing border security in an effort to avoid a sweeping 25% tariff that Trump has threatened to impose on all Canadian products.
When Trump imposed higher tariffs during his first term in office, other countries responded with retaliatory tariffs of their own. Canada announced billions of new duties in 2018 against the US in a tit-for-tat response to new taxes on Canadian steel and aluminum.
adding that boil-water advisories had been lifted for some surrounding counties as well.
The temporary halting of the system affected more than 200,000 people, some of whom lacked water in their homes because of diminished pressure.
Freezing rain pushed up electrical outages above 110,000 in Georgia on Friday night. Power crews restored all but a few thousand by Saturday evening, though.
The National Weather Service reported small amounts of ice accumulation around Atlanta from the freezing rain.
Parts of mountainous western North Carolina saw as much as 4.5 inches (about 11 centimeters) of snow in a 24-hour period through 7 a.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. And parts of middle Tennessee saw nearly 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) by the same morning.
Earlier this week the storm brought heavy snow and slick roads to much of Texas and Oklahoma before moving east.
Arkansas and North Carolina mobilized National Guard troops for tasks such as helping stranded motorists, and governors declared states of emergency.
Finley reported from Norfolk, Virginia.
Associated Press reporters Adrian Sainz in Memphis, Tennessee; Kate Brumback in Atlanta; Jeff Martin in Kennesaw, Georgia; Makiya Seminera in Raleigh, North Carolina; Kristen Hall and Jonathan Mattise in Nashville; Heather Hollingsworth in Kansas City; Isabella O’Malley in Philadelphia; Olivia Diaz in Richmond, Virginia; and Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina; and Lisa Baumann in Bellingham, Washington, contributed.
Ko -
the United
Urgent action needed: Disturbing increase in self-reported poverty
The recent Social Weather Survey (SWS) revealing that about 63 percent of Filipino families rated themselves as “poor” in December 2024 serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing economic challenges many Filipinos face. This figure, the highest since 2003, highlights a troubling trend as self-rated poverty has risen for the third consecutive quarter, reflecting not just numbers, but a reality that millions of families grapple with daily. (Read the BusinessMirror report: “63% of Pinoy families rate themselves ‘poor,’ highest level since 2003,” January 10, 2025).
The increase from 59 percent in September 2024 to 63 percent in December is more than a numerical change; it is a testament to the struggles of 17.4 million families who now self-identify as poor. As families navigate rising costs and stagnant wages, the impact is felt most acutely in regions like Mindanao and the Visayas, where selfrated poverty reached alarming levels of 76 percent and 74 percent, respectively. The daily struggle for basic necessities is a constant reality in these communities.
The data surrounding food poverty is equally disheartening. With 51 percent of families considering themselves food-poor—the highest in over two decades—there is a clear indication that food insecurity is a critical issue that cannot be overlooked. Families are not only struggling to make ends meet but are also unable to secure adequate nutrition. This situation raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of current policies aimed at poverty alleviation and food security. Moreover, the decline in families identifying as borderline—those who teeter between poor and not poor—suggests that economic stability is increasingly elusive. With merely 26 percent of families feeling secure in their financial situation, the growing divide between the poor and the financially secure is evident. The data indicates that many families are trapped in a cycle of poverty, with nearly half of those who consider themselves poor having never experienced a time when they were not.
The median monthly family expenses further illustrate the strain on households. With basic costs for rent, transportation, and communication adding up, it is clear that many families are juggling multiple challenges just to maintain a semblance of stability. The government must address these escalating costs and implement targeted economic policies that can uplift those at the bottom of the economic ladder.
As we reflect on these findings, it is crucial to recognize that selfrated poverty is not just a statistic; it represents real lives and real suffering. The government, civil society, and private sector must collaborate to devise comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of poverty. This includes investment in education, healthcare, and sustainable job creation, as well as policies that foster economic growth in the regions most affected by poverty.
The rise in self-rated poverty is a call to action. Policymakers must prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable in society and ensure that the voices of the poor are heard. Only through concerted efforts can we hope to reverse this troubling trend and build a future where all Filipinos have the opportunity to thrive, not just survive.
BusinessMirror
Insights from California’s wildfires
ARISING SUN
S we watch in horror the developments surrounding the devastating wildfires in California, it’s essential to recognize that the effects extend far beyond the charred landscapes and displaced families. The economic toll is staggering, with losses estimated between $52 billion and $57 billion. For us here back home, particularly those engaged in business and investment, these events are a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with climate change and natural disasters.
The wildfires have devastated various sectors of California’s economy. Property values are plummeting with over 1,000 structures ruined and burned, including homes in high-value areas like Santa Monica and Malibu. This situation reverberates through global markets. Direct losses from property damage are only part of the equation; the fires have also resulted in substantial income loss.
The lessons from California’s
wildfires resonate deeply with Filipinos, especially since we also face our vulnerabilities to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes. The country is no stranger to climate-related problems. It is, therefore, crucial that we learn from these events to help us prepare for future disasters.
Disaster preparation falls on the shoulders of both government and the private sector. It is high time that we inspect and enhance infrastruc-
The lessons from California’s wildfires resonate deeply with Filipinos, especially since we also face our vulnerabilities to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes. The country is no stranger to climate-related problems. It is, therefore, crucial that we learn from these events to help us prepare for future disasters.
ture so that it can withstand extreme weather events and natural catastrophes. Equally important is promoting sustainable practices and policies to mitigate environmental risks.
One of the most pressing issues surrounding the current California wildfires is the precarious state of insurance coverage for homeowners and businesses. As the flames rage on, many residents are grappling with the reality that their insurance policies may not adequately cover the extensive damage caused by these disasters. Developing comprehensive insurance schemes that not only provide robust coverage against fire damage but also take into account
Court case presents interesting sidelights in land ownership cases
LAnD ownership disputes have long been a cornerstone of legal conflicts, and in recent years, they have taken on a particular significance in the context of rapidly escalating land prices.
As the demand for land grows, so too does the number of contentious cases in the courts, often revealing the extraordinary lengths to which individuals may go in order to secure or transfer land titles.
These disputes present fascinating insights into the ways that individuals manipulate legal processes, and in some instances, the decisions made by the courts can be almost revelatory. There is, in fact, a certain “aha!” moment when one begins to appreciate the complex web of factors at play in these cases, making them not only legally intriguing but socially relevant as well.
In particular, one case that stands out for its educational value is a decision made by the Fourth Judicial Region Branch 131 in Trece Martires City, where Presiding Judge Jean Desuasido-Gill rendered a ruling on the accusation of falsification of pub-
lic documents against one Rolando B. Benitez.
Indeed, the ruling handed down by Judge Desuasido-Gill is far from just a dry legal decision—it offers a masterclass in the application of judicial discretion and highlights the painstaking process by which courts sift through often voluminous documents to arrive at conclusions that are not only just but well-reasoned.
The case itself, though appearing at first glance to be a straightforward matter of document falsification, offers a far deeper insight into the ways courts evaluate evidence, examine motives, and apply the law to realworld situations.
At the heart of the case was the accusation that Rolando Benitez had falsified a Deed of Absolute Sale in order to transfer ownership of a piece of property that had belonged to his late mother, Rosa Belamide-Benitez. The sale, according to the records,
was purported to have been executed in 2016.
However, therein lay the critical issue: Rosa Belamide-Benitez had passed away in December of 2010, making it impossible for her to have signed such a deed six years later. It was this glaring contradiction that led to the charge of falsification—a charge that threatened not only the legitimacy of Rolando’s claim to the property but also the integrity of the very process by which land titles are transferred.
Judge Desuasido-Gill’s decision is particularly revealing in its meticulous examination of the facts, and it serves as an important reminder that the process of adjudication is one of careful scrutiny.
Far from being an arbitrary or cursory process, the court’s decision was grounded in a rigorous application of the Rules of Court and the Rules of Evidence, which are designed to ensure fairness and accuracy in legal proceedings.
Through a detailed analysis of the evidence presented and the surrounding circumstances, the judge was able to come to a conclusion that not only addressed the specific question of document falsification but also shed light on the broader implications of land ownership disputes.
This falsification charge gains added significance when viewed within the broader context of property transactions. The court’s ruling
other potential disasters and force majeure events is very important. Philippine organizations should be taking note. The recent US wildfires also highlight the critical importance of effective evacuation planning and community preparedness. Governments need to develop comprehensive evacuation strategies that consider the challenges of specific types of geography, such as narrow roads and limited access points. Communication systems have to be enhanced to ensure timely and reliable alerts during emergencies. Communities could form volunteer groups to help identify evacuation routes and draw up plans to mitigate disaster risks. Ultimately, all this underscores the necessity for proactive measures in disaster preparedness.
For Filipino business leaders and policymakers, all this should be a call to action: prioritize disaster resilience, invest wisely in sustainable practices, and prepare for an uncertain future shaped by climate change. A well-prepared community can save lives and mitigate losses during catastrophic events.
is a stark reminder of how easily individuals might attempt to circumvent the law in order to secure ownership of valuable property, especially in a market where the stakes are high and the potential rewards great. The case reflects the ethical dimensions of land ownership. The ruling not only exposed the lengths to which individuals might go to manipulate public records for personal gain but also underscored the need for accountability and responsibility in property dealings. It is a stark reminder that behind each piece of land lies not just legal documentation but a web of human interactions, intentions, and sometimes, dishonesty. This case offers a wealth of lessons for both legal professionals and the general public. It reminds us of the intricate relationship between law, property, and ethics, and how the judiciary serves as the ultimate arbiter in disputes that can have farreaching consequences.
The decision made by Judge Desuasido-Gill is not just an abstract legal ruling; it is a testament to the careful, discerning process by which courts navigate the complexities of land ownership disputes. For those of us observing the case, it offers a rare glimpse into the workings of the legal system and serves as a valuable source of understanding in the often murky world of land ownership, transfer, and the laws that govern them.
Atty. Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II
LITO GAGNI
Voices against the ‘best’ budget ‘VIVA, PIT SEÑOR!’
Remarks by Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. at the 16th celebration of the Feast of the Sto. Nino, January 11, 2025, St. George’s Cathedral, Archdiocese of Southwark.
rigHT reverend Patrick Lynch, Bishop of the Archdiocese of Southwark, Canon Michael Brand, Fr. Francesco Buttazzo, Fr. Tomas Banayag, Fr. Stephem Morison, Dean Errol Jadoc (from Silay, he knows Tita Charet in Balay Dako), friends:
Wow! What a pageant of devotion! And in one of God’s most splendid houses. I am speechless but I have a duty to speak.
It is a great honor to join you in this very special celebration of the Feast of the Santo Nino. The occasion brings together not only Filipino communities in the United Kingdom, but also friends who share the same faith and love for the child Jesus.
Turned away from an inn, Jesus was born by a lonely roadside. He was being hunted by soldiers and spies. He was born the King of Kings yet to common folk. In the timeless world of faith, that was only a few weeks ago. He lay, not in a cushioned crib, but a manger stuffed with straw; not in a palace lit with candelabra; but a ramshackle stable under a single shining star in the night sky.
Darkness was his beginning; humble was his birth; pain would mark his end; a blinding light his resurrection. His would be a dangerous life with a strange and singular purpose—the salvation of a clueless mankind.
As much human as divine, he was torn with misgiving—would he not ask God to let his cup of pain pass? And yet he was filled with certainty about his saving mission; in which he trusted as implicitly as a child trusts its parents.
Today, as we honor the Santo Nino, we recognize the beauty of traditions passed down through generations of Filipinos, particularly the lively and exuberant Sinulog festival. It is held annually in Cebu and many other places in the Philippines. And outside, too. In then communist Czechoslovakia, my wife and I prayed to the Santo Nino de Praga who is dressed in Filipino finery by our very own designer Ben Farrales —a dear friend departed.
The Sinulog is a grand celebration of the Santo Nino as a vibrant expression of our Filipino identity our faith, resilience, and enduring connection to our roots.
The Sinulog festival started as a dance of gratitude and reverence for the Santo Nino; and as a gesture of peace and harmony with strangers. According to legend, the native people of Cebu received the image of the Holy Child as a gift from Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. The harmony didn’t last; nothing does. Magellan was killed. But Catholicism was planted deep in rich soil. The dance itself, known as “sinulog,” mimics the rhythmic flow of a river. It symbolizes our people’s unstoppable conversion to Christianity and the continuing desire to honor the Divine Child for itself apart from his teaching life and salvific self-sacrifice 33 years later. This is Filipino, perhaps uniquely so. Every stage of a person’s life is not regarded as a mere prelude to the next one nor the last. It is to be cherished for itself. Filipinos are not users who value others for what they may one day do for us. We value every person at every stage of its life. Why our parents and godparents spoiled us after we were mischievous—to make up for their scolding. Through the years, the Sinulog Festival has evolved, growing into one of the Philippines’ grandest, most ebullient and colorful expressions of faith—blending universal Catholic devotion with native Filipino culture. It
is infused with the unique kindness of a race. For we have taken in the homeless, even the countryless from all over the world —without question or pause. We believe that everyone has a place in the world they can call their own. And if that place is taken from them, then with childlike trust the imperiled of the earth can look to our country for a home and to our people for family. Thus, we took in the White Russians fleeing civil war. The West balked at taking in refugees but we took in Jews fleeing the impending European holocaust. Then Chinese fleeing a communist victory. And most famously Vietnamese Boat People escaping from the proxy battlefield into which great powers had turned their country to test their weapons and tactics.
The Philippine Refugee Center—my sister-in-law Tess Barcelon was one of those who ran that sprawling haven of hope—was the most successful of its kind. Over the years the refugees were kept safe and taught new skills until homes were found for them around the world. Lately we took in Afghans fleeing their abrupt abandonment by their beaten ally. Filipinos can be trusted as the Child Jesus trusted his parents.
But more than a festival of colors, music and dance, the Sinulog celebrates community in steadfast faith and shared belief and love for one another—through thick and thin; through trials we did not invite nor deserved to undergo; followed by astonishing triumphs despite discouragement from friends and never help from them. We did it by ourselves to serve as an inviting example to others. The fall of the Wall followed and all of Eastern Europe was likewise free.
The Sinulog brings together Filipinos from all walks of life, fostering a strong bond; especially among us who are far from home, making us feel still connected to each other and our blessed isles—our first and last home if only in the heart.
For Filipinos living abroad, celebrating the Sinulog evokes a deep nostalgia that brings us warm memories and vivid recollections of the festive atmosphere that envelops the entire nation. We feel part of the larger national celebration however far away we may be. It is also an emotional connection, closing the gap between new lives abroad and cherished memories of country. Why we can never lose our country nor allow it to be misused by others for misconceived ideas of world peace that always end in conflict at others’ expense. So maybe they are good ideas after all—but not for us.
As we celebrate the Feast of the Santo Nino in London today, we are reminded of how the Filipino diaspora carries this unshakable devotion— one that binds us together, gives us strength and hope in the face of adversity and solitude; and that envelops us with comfort and joy; alive and vibrant anywhere in the world.
I have taken my hat off to the Scalabrini Fathers, the various Filipino communities here in the United Kingdom, and all of you who have come together to make this event possible. As we celebrate the Santo Nino, let us keep in our hearts these words: “VIVA, PIT SEÑOR!” Here in this church today, we are all back home—and yet here.
MSiegfred Bueno Mison, Esq.
THE PATRIOT
uCH has been said about the 2025 national budget. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) clarified and defended that the general Appropriations Act (gA A), which serves as the law when it comes to government spending in 2025 is true to the 1987 Philippine Constitution, according to DBM Secretary Pangandaman. Yet, budget critics pointed out that the public works budget, despite the presidential veto, was practically padded with pork-barrel additions.
Further, some observers exposed some disturbing facts such as the P5.4 billion budget increase for the Office of the President and the budget increase from the originally proposed P16.3 billion to P33.7 billion for the House of Representatives. Former DBM director and current Executive Director of the Institute for Leadership, Empowerment and Democracy Zyza Nadine Suzara pointed out that since 86 percent or P168 billion of the presidential veto of P194 billion comes from unprogrammed appropriations, the veto is irrelevant. Perhaps for “optics” purposes, the veto was done as a response to the initial waves of criticisms, the most vocal of which came from former Department of Finance (DOF) undersecretary Cielo Magno. Simply put, the 2025 budget is the “best budget” for the greedy politicians and their corrupt cohorts. Fearless and undaunted, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has been exposing the corrupt practices in government projects, particularly in infrastructure projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He had repeatedly said, “Silence is not neutrality; it is complicity.” Given the substantial portion of the budget allocated, I anticipate a notable rise in DPWH projects focused on flood control and
asphalt overlay, two of the more common “pork” projects prone to abuse. Echoing Magalong is former head of the Department of Information Communication and Technology, retired General Eliseo Rio who said that “it is our duty to speak out against the ills of society, especially when it comes to issues of good governance and the pervasive scourge of corruption.” Aside from being at the forefront in exposing the issue of computerized cheating during the last 2022 elections, General Rio is part of several watchdogs, too many to count, due to his expertise in the field of digital technology. After all, when he and I worked together in a military unit, he was in charge of the signal, technical, and communication intelligence. He knows his craft in technology just as much as former government officials Magno (DOF) and Suzara (DBM) know their field in finance.
In contrast, retired Colonel Hector Tarrazona, founder of Love Movement, Philippines and has supposedly been regularly sending open letters to President Bongbong Marcos (PBBM), urging him to pursue good governance and stop pursuing the interests of the political elite. For Tarrazona, there is no need to change the constitution or replace leaders. The main problem is the “lack or ab-
sence of love for our God, country, and people.” Well-meaning Filipino voices such as those coming from Magno, Magalong, Rio, and Tarrazona to name a few, need to be heard. Incidentally, there is an Indignation Concert and Rally scheduled at the Edsa Shrine on January 31, 2025, Friday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Aside from retired military and uniformed personnel, retired Supreme Court Justice Tony Carpio and former COA Commissioner Heidi Mendoza are expected to participate. But prior to this January 31 rally, there is another one on January 13. Coinciding with the first day of the opening of Congress for 2025, the religious group Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) has planned this supposedly “Nation Rally for Peace”. Anticipating millions of INC participants, classes and work in government offices in the cities of Pasay and Manila were suspended in a seemingly and eerily show of “cooperation” from the government. It begs the question—Can Team Unity (PBBM and VP Sara) be back together? For retired General Rio, this confluence of events—the sudden cessation of hostilities between PBBM and VP Sara indicates that the Duterte family has one major weapon against the Marcoses. General Rio opined that the “weapon is the evidence that the 2022 presidential election was rigged.”
Most political observers would agree that the Marcoses have enough ammunition to completely obliterate the Dutertes from Philippine politics. Yet it will not be used since, according to Rio, the stalemate is a “local version of the Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD), where both sides are afraid of making the first strike, and just co-exist in a Cold War.” Therefore, as to the question of whether there is reunification of the Marcoses and the Dutertes, the answer is yes, but a zarzuela of sorts, according to Rio.
I am not surprised that only a handful of traditional media outlets carry these voices against the government. For the past nine years, I have
Environmental sustainability champions
DJoel L. Tan-Torres
DEBIT CREDIT
Part two
uring the period from 2016 to 2024 when the Philippines was represented in the intergovernmental Working group of Experts on international Standards of Accounting and reporting (iSAr), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) garnered several awards from this united nations (u n) organization. The SEC was honored multiple times by the iSAr, which awarded the iSAr Honors three times to the SEC in its headquarters in Palais des nations in geneva, Switzerland.
These awards recognize the SEC’s initiatives in promoting sustainability reporting among enterprises in the Philippines. These included the following awards given in various years: 2019: The SEC was recognized for mandating sustainability and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) reporting for publicly listed
companies. This initiative required publicly listed companies (PLCs) to disclose their environmental, social, and governance practices, aligning corporate reporting with global sustainability standards. 2022: The SEC received the ISAR Honors for conducting capacitybuilding programs designed to guide PLCs in preparing their annual sus-
tainability reports. These programs aimed to enhance the quality and consistency of sustainability disclosures, facilitating better corporate transparency and accountability.
2024: The SEC was honored last year for its Small and Medium Industries and Large Enterprises Embracing Sustainability Roadshow. This multi-year initiative, conducted in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program and funded by the government of Canada, targeted key regions in the Philippines to raise awareness and build capacity among small, medium, and large enterprises on sustainability reporting practices.
These recognitions underscore the SEC’s commitment to integrating sustainable practices within the corporate sector and its role in advancing the Philippines’ progress toward achieving the UN SDGs.
As mentioned in my article last week, I was appointed as the first Filipino to represent the Philippines in ISAR for two consecutive terms from 2016 to 2021. Then Ambassador and currently Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique
Why Biden’s farewell Russian oil trade sanctions are a big deal
By Julian Lee
THE US on Friday announced the most sweeping and aggressive sanctions yet on Russia’s oil trade, just ten days before Joe Biden leaves the White House to be replaced by Donald Trump as president. If they stay in place under Trump, the measures have more chance of disrupting Russia’s exports of petroleum than anything done by any western power so far.
Two large producers and exporters were sanctioned, a highly effective program of targeting individual oil tankers has been expanded dramatically, traders organizing hun-
dreds of shipments have been listed, pivotal insurance companies have been named, and two US oil service providers have been told to exit. The move could in theory reduce what the International Energy Agency predicts will be a supply surplus of almost 1 million barrels a day this year. Brent oil futures, which ended 2024 below $75 a barrel, rose above $80 at one stage Friday, ICE Futures Europe data show. This story looks at each of the key areas within the context of oil supply.
Surgutneftegas and Gazprom Neft
THE sanctioning of these two firms is by far the most direct and aggres-
sive step taken so far by Washington or any other western power.
Between them, the two companies shipped about 970,000 barrels a day of oil by sea in 2024 and the fact they have been designated will be a cause for concern for oil refineries in India as well as state-run companies in China. To put their seaborne flows into context, it’s bigger than a global supply surplus that the International Energy Agency is anticipating for the global market in 2025. It’s also almost 30 percent of Russia’s seaborne exports.
Nobody is suggesting that the two companies’ shipments will be halted in their entirety, but the fact that
they are sanctioned, along with the other measures announced, means disruption cannot be ruled out.
Many tankers
T HE US announced sanctions on about 160 individual oil tankers.
That doubles the entire list of vessels targeted by the US, UK and European Union up to now. About 30 of the ships Washington is going after have already been sanctioned by London and Brussels, but it’s important to note how effective US measures have proved thus far.
Of all the sanctions on Russia’s oil trade, those imposed by the US have proved to have the most bite,
opted to make this column focus on and share the positive side of people or events. But this time around, there is a need to make people more aware of how political thieves can really steal the future of this country. Addressing most of the politicians, particularly those believers, who will use or abuse the funds entrusted to them this 2025 and beyond, may I remind you of what the Bible told us in Mark 8:36, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Would you rather gain millions or billions of pesos in exchange for losing your soul? And be hated by many Filipinos now and in generations to come? Tarrazona repeatedly implored PBBM to turn to God in saying that “as a nation, only our collective contrite hearts and minds could earn God’s mercy on us and “heal our land.” Addressing the God-fearing voters who will vote in this year’s midterm elections, do not be fooled by campaign promises. May I remind you what the Bible says “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them. (Ephesians 5:67 ). Voting against your conscience is considered as partnering with them. Let me add my voice to those opposing the Best Budget, as I remind myself and the media to raise awareness about the thieves among us— “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11)
A former infantry and intelligence officer in the Army, Siegfred Mison showcased his servant leadership philosophy in organizations such as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Malcolm Law Offices, Infogix Inc., University of the East, Bureau of Immigration, and Philippine Airlines. He is a graduate of West Point in New York, Ateneo Law School, and University of Southern California. A corporate lawyer by profession, he is an inspirational teacher and a Spirit-filled writer with a mission. For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.
Manalo took over as the Philippine representative to ISAR, with his term ending on December 31, 2024. As of now, the specific list of member countries comprising the ISAR intergovernmental working group of experts for the coming 2025 to 2027 term has not been publicly released. I hope that the Philippines may be able to continue its membership in ISAR with the election of its representative for another three-year term for 2025 to 2027. With a Filipino representative in ISAR the Philippines may continue its stellar performance in this UN body.
To be continued
Joel L. Tan-Torres was the former Dean of the University of the Philippines Virata School of Business. Previously, he was the Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the chairman of the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy, and Tax partner of Reyes Tacandong & Co. and the SyCip Gorres and Velayo & Co. He is a Certified Public Accountant who garnered No. 1 in the CPA Board Examination of May 1979. He is now back to his tax and consultancy practice and can be contacted at joeltantorress@yahoo.com and his firm JL2T
evidence that Asian buyers are wary of flouting Washington’s measures.
Prior to Friday, the Office of Foreign Assets Control had designated 39 tankers that transport Russian petroleum since October 2023. Of those, 33 have failed to lift cargoes since they were listed, according to ship-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg. That is a higher level of disruption than achieved by similar measures imposed by the UK or European Union and over a period of time more than twice as long, with the first sanctions imposed by either of those jurisdictions only coming in June 2024. The latest measure includes sanctions against the entire fleets of spe-
cialized shuttle tankers used to move crude from key projects in Russia’s Arctic and Pacific regions. The Arctic vessels shuttle cargoes to the Russian port of Murmansk, where two storage tankers have also been targeted, and may feel little immediate from the move. But it could hamper maintenance work on the ships, which is typically carried out in China. The shuttle tankers operating in the Pacific move Russian oil to China and Friday’s sanctions could complicate that trade, potentially requiring cargoes to be moved from one tanker to another before delivery. With assistance from Rakesh Sharma and Serene Cheong /Bloomberg
Monday, January 13, 2025
New generation, transmission projects spell ‘better’ power
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
ACHAIN is as strong as its weakest link. This was how Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla depicted the country’s power supply and demand for this year. He said the Philippines is in “a much better situation this year” because of the power plant and transmission projects that are now fully operational.
“I think it’s important to stress that we are in a much better situation this year than we were compared to last year, precisely because we have a number of projects that have come online, not only in terms of new generation capacity but particularly in terms of the transmission l ines that are vital to bring the supply to the market,” he said.
Based on DOE data, this year’s committed power projects, including energy storage system (ESS), will reach 7,171 megawatts (MW), with renewable energy (RE) making up more than half of the estimate. Barring any hitches, these are expected to come online this year.
The DOE defines committed projects as those that have secured financial closing, already in construction stage, and already GEA (Green Energy Auction)-awarded projects.
O f the estimate, RE facilities will total 4,945MW, followed b y natural gas and coal, with 1,320MW and 500MW, respectively. Oil-based facilities will add 76 M W to the grid. Coal will no longer dominate the list of committed power plant projects because of the moratorium on new coal plants imposed by t he agency in 2000.
S olar power dominates the committed RE projects at 3,930MW; followed by wind, 773MW; hydro, 107MW; geothermal, 104MW; and biomass, 31MW.
Meanwhile, capacity from committed battery energy storage system (BESS) projects is expected to reach 330MW this year.
“ But we must remember that we are only as strong as our weak-
est link, and our weak links are everywhere. You know that we are an a rchipelagic country, that’s one, and therefore every major island, for example in the Visayas, has a different e nergy situation or condition from the rest of the country.
“ So there is Visayas as a whole which is dependent on imports, power imports from both Mindanao and from Luzon,” said Lotilla. So, that is an area where we a re continuously working with everyone concerned to improve the p ower situation in the Visayan Islands in particular.”
B roken down, the committed power projects in Luzon this y ear will generate 5,754MW and 230MW of battery ESS; 855MW in Visayas; and 232MW and 100MW of BESS in Mindanao. Committed RE projects in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will generate a capacity of 3,923MW, 846MW, and 176MW, respectively. The committed natural gas, 1,320MW, and coal, 500MW, projects are only in Luzon. Oil-based and ESS are seen to contribute an additional 11MW and 230MW t his year to the grid. For Visayas’s committed power projects, these will generate 855MW. Of which, 846MW are RE and the remaining 9MW oil-based. Mindanao’s committed projects will total 332MW—176MW, RE; 56MW, oil based; 100MW, ESS. “In Mindanao, we still have an excess capacity that’s why we are able to export additional capacity to the Visayas, especially in the evenings. But we must be able to grow with the increased demand,” added Lotilla.
DOF exhorts LGUs: Use your higher NTA shares to improve public services
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
THE Department of Finance (DOF) called on local government units to effectively use their increased tax shares to provide improved services to Filipinos.
In a statement on Sunday, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said the DOF is open to having continued dialogues with LGUs to strengthen their fiscal capacities and optimize resource utilization.
A total of P1.034 trillion in national tax allotment (NTA) shares of LGUs will cover 43,634 LGUs in the Philippines.
Th is is broken down according to 83 provinces; 149 cities; 1,491 municipalities; and 41,911 barangays nationwide.
According to the DOF, Recto is set to meet the League of Cities this week to discuss the computation of the NTA.
“ We assure our LGUs that we are strictly adhering to transparency and accountability, especially with the principles set by the Supreme Court [SC], in implementing the Mandanas-Garcia ruling. Noth-
ing is shortchanged,” Recto said in the statement. Under the 2019 MandanasGarcia ruling of the SC—in effect since 2022—the NTA shares of LGUs were increased to 40 percent of all national taxes beyond those collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
The increase was intended to enhance the fiscal autonomy of LGUs by granting them a more substantial share of the national tax base, the DOF said.
The SC ordered the Secretary of the DOF, the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Commissioners of the BIR and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the National Treasury, to include all national tax collections in the computation of the NTA base, “except those accruing to special purpose funds and special allotments for the utilization and development of the national wealth.”
In determining the deductions, the DOF is guided by the SC decision including Section 29 (3), Article VI and Section 7, Article X of the 1987 Constitution.
Th e forecasted peak demand for the year may grow by 5.4 percent in Luzon to 14,769MW; 16 p ercent in Visayas to 3,111MW; and 8.2 percent in Mindanao to 2,789MW. Actual demand in Luzon last year reached 14,016MW; 2 ,681MW for Visayas; and 2,577MW in Mindanao.
The second point I want to stress is, of course, while it is election year, it is also not an El Niño y ear. In fact, it is seen as a La Niña year and therefore the constraints that we saw last year would not be as great as this year in 2025,” added Lotilla.
L ast year’s peak demand surged because of an unprecedented heatwave. “Our peak demand i ncreased because of the El Niño. It increased by 10 to 12 percent, which made us go through extended periods of yellow and red a lerts. But thankfully, because of the cooperation of everyone, we did not have extended blackouts or brownouts because of the El Niño,” recalled the energy chief. System operator, Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP), earlier forecasted fewer incidence of red and yellow alerts this year.
“ If you look at the weather now, according to Pagasa, La Niña
has started. Of course, its impact is different from last year’s El Niño. So, going into summer next year. In terms of supply, we’re really seeing it to be quite stable,” s aid IEMOP trading operations head Isidro Cacho Jr.
He cited the possibility of yellow alerts in the third quarter this year, particularly in the Visayas, due to the programmed power plant maintenance programs.
A yellow alert is declared by the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) when power reserves fall below a certain threshold, which means rotating brownouts may be declared. A red alert, meanwhile, is raided when the power supply is insufficient to meet demand, meaning that outages can be expected.
A s of December 17 last year, the NGCP issued 16 red alerts and 62 yellow alerts.
M ost of these were experienced in April last year when d emand was at its peak.
From April 16 to May 23, 2024, the Luzon power grid experienced six red alerts and 20 yellow alerts, while the Visayas grid recorded seven red alerts and 20 yellow alerts. Meanwhile, the Mindanao grid had two yellow alerts on April 24 and 26, 2024.
OCTA: CONTROLLING INFLATION STILL FILIPINOS’ TOP CONCERN
ONTROLLING infla -
Ction remains the top priority among adult Filipinos, according to the fourth-quarter survey released by OCTA Research on Sunday, January 12, with food affordability and increased wages also topping the list of urgent national concerns.
I n its Tugon ng Masa Survey, the pollster asked Filipinos to list the three most important issues that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration must act on immediately.
A bout 56 percent of Filipinos said “controlling the increase in prices of basic goods and services.” This figure is down 10 percentage points from the third quarter results.
“Access to affordable food like rice, vegetables, and meat” came in second, at 44 percent, followed by improving or increasing workers’ salaries, at 36 percent.
O ther urgent national concerns, according to the survey, include reducing poverty (34 percent), creating more jobs (29 percent), providing free quality education
(17 percent), combatting graft and corruption (14 percent), defending the country’s rights at West Philippine Sea (13 percent), fighting criminality (12 percent) and promoting peace and order (12 percent).
A mending the Constitution, which generated headlines in the first months of 2024 and caused the ruling Uniteam coalition to splinter, registered a measly one percent.
I n the same survey, 70 percent of Filipinos told OCTA that staying healthy and avoiding illnesses are their top urgent personal concern. Other responses include securing a well-paying job (52 percent) and finishing their children’s schooling (51 percent).
T he results presented by OCTA are generally in line with other pollsters’ data on Filipinos’ pressing concerns. Pulse Asia, for instance, reported in July that 72 percent of its respondents felt that the Marcos administration should prioritize addressing inflation.
THE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) asserted that its P250 billion in reserve funds remains sufficient despite the Department of Finance’s (DOF) order to transfer its “excess funds.”
PDIC President Roberto B. Tan told reporters on the sidelines of the 2025 Annual Reception for the Banking Community that the insurer has remitted P107.23 billion to the Bureau of the Treasury to bankroll programs and projects under unprogrammed appropriations in the 2024 General Appropriations Act. The adequacy is more than
what the directors targeted for that. So, it’s in good shape. So, I don’t think there’s anything to be alarmed about,” Tan said.
To recall, the DOF issued Memorandum Circular No. 0032024, ordering the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and PDIC to remit P89.9 billion and P110 billion, respectively, to the Treasury.
The sweeping of reserve funds sparked outrage among the public, which resulted in the Supreme Court issuing a temporary restraining order (TRO) to PhilHealth to stop the remittance.
A lthough the PDIC is ex-
empted from the TRO, Tan said the insurer will not be transferring any more excess funds to the Treasury.
Tan said PDIC still has around P250 billion in deposit insurance fund (DIF), which is “more than enough.”
The banking system right now is very healthy based on financial indicators. So I don’t think there’s anything to worry about,” Tan said.
I n a statement released by the DOF on Sunday, the PDIC said its remittance to the Treasury supports government-wide efforts to boost the economy
through funding the national government’s priority projects.
“ These projects will spur more economic activities that are expected to lead to higher deposits in banks and the growth of financial institutions to provide more financial products and services to Filipinos nationwide,” the PDIC said.
“ The national government assures the depositors and other stakeholders of the PDIC that this remittance does not compromise the soundness of
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
B1 Monday, January 13, 2025
More criminals using AI for phishing scams–Kaspersky
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
ExpEr i Enc E in cybersecurity is no longer sufficient to protect organizations from the growing sophistication of A i-powered cyberattacks, Kaspersky warned over the weekend.
The global cybersecurity company highlighted how artificial intelligence (AI) is morphing phishing scams, making them nearly indistinguishable from legitimate communications, and leaving even seasoned employees vulnerable.
Citing its recent study, Kaspersky said nearly half of the respondents (49 percent) reported a surge in cyberattacks over the past 12 months. Phishing emerged as the most common threat, with 49 percent of organizations admitting to falling victim. Compounding the concern, half of the respondents (50 percent) anticipate a significant increase in phishing incidents due to AI advancements.
Kaspersky said cybercriminals are leveraging AI to personalize phishing scams, turning mass-pro -
duced, generic messages into targeted, highly customized emails. These emails mimic the tone, style, and content of legitimate communications by mining publicly available information from social media, job boards, and corporate websites.
“For example, a CFO might receive a fraudulent email that mirrors the tone and formatting of their CEO’s messages, including accurate references to recent company events. This level of customization makes it exceptionally challenging for employees to distinguish between legitimate and malicious communications.”
Adding another layer of deception, cybercriminals are deploying deepfake technology to impersonate executives in video and audio messages. Kaspersky cited a chilling example of attackers using deep -
fakes during a video conference to convince an employee to transfer $25.6 million.
AI also allows attackers to outsmart traditional email security systems by mimicking legitimate email patterns and refining phishing tactics in real time. Machine learning algorithms can optimize phishing campaigns, enhancing their success rates and making detection increasingly difficult.
Even the most vigilant employees are susceptible to these advanced attacks. Kaspersky said AI-generated phishing emails exploit human psychology, using tactics such as urgency, fear, or authority to bypass skepticism.
“The level of realism and personalization that AI can achieve may
override the skepticism that keeps experienced professionals cautious.” Kaspersky underscored the need for a proactive, multi-layered cybersecurity approach to counter AIenhanced phishing attacks. Regular, up-to-date AI-focused cybersecurity training is critical to help employees identify subtle signs of malicious activity.
Organizations are also encouraged to implement advanced security tools capable of detecting anomalies in email patterns, alongside adopting a zero-trust security model to minimize potential damage.
“Together, these measures create a comprehensive defense strategy, combining advanced technology with vigilant human oversight,” Kaspersky said.
BCDA inks lease deal with MPIC
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA)
said it has secured its firstever long-term residential lease agreement with conglomerate Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) after the state-run firm’s Supreme Court victory which allowed it to regain control over the Camp John Hay property.
DOT marketing arm gets lift with ₧40-M subsidy
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo @akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror
THE Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), has been given a P40-million subsidy under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for 2025.
In a Viber message to the BusinessMirror, TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles confirmed the subsidy, adding that “it will help and we will be able to mount the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM).” In a Senate budget hearing last October, Nograles said the ATM is one of the key travel trade shows around the world, making the subsidy timely as the DOT relaunched its halal marketing program last year. (See, “How to make ’em ‘Love the PHL’ sans funds for wooing” in the BusinessMirror, Oct. 22, 2024.)
In an interview over PTV-4 on January 10, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco revealed that the DOT’s branding budget, built around its “Love the Philippines” (LVP) marketing campaign, was slashed to P100 million under GAA 2025, from the proposed P500-million under the NEP 2025. The NEP is the budget document finalized by the Department of Budget and Management for submission to lawmakers for their deliberations.
“The challenge of a very limited funding for branding and promotions is the difficulty of making sure that the Philippines continues to be present in the consciousness of potential travelers in markets around the world,” she said in a mix of Filipino and English. “We anticipate it will affect tourism arrivals considering the lesser opportunity that we have to market the Philippines, the lesser chances there are to reach as many markets or many people as we wish,” she added.
Located within the 247-hectare Camp John Hay, the Forest Cabin complex covers a 1.47-hectare area and features 56 well-appointed dwelling units, each averaging 270 square meters, said BCDA.
BCDA noted that the signing of the residential lease agreement signals a “bold step forward” in the redevelopment and revitalization of the Camp John Hay property.
MPIC is a Philippine-based investment management and holding company registered with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission.
Moving forward, BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said
The government-owned and -controlled corporation said MPIC Director Victorico Vargas signed a fresh 25-year residential lease contract with the state-run agency for two Forest Cabin units, which he previously leased with Camp John Hay Development Corp. (CJH DevCo.)
WALT Disney Co., Fox Corp. and Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. scrapped plans to create a joint sports streaming service, saying they want to focus on their existing online offerings instead.
The decision came just days after Disney agreed to merge its Hulu + Live TV streaming service with the online sports-focused company FuboTV Inc., and to take a 70-percent stake in the new entity. The deal also settled a lawsuit brought by Fubo against the three companies involved in creating Venu Sports.
“After careful consideration, we have collectively agreed to discontinue the Venu Sports joint venture and not launch the streaming service,” the companies said in a statement Friday. “In an ever-changing marketplace, we determined that it was best to meet the evolving demands of sports fans by focusing on existing products and distribution channels.”
The idea for Venu Sports was hatched last year as the three media companies decided to pool their most valuable sports content — including
ESPN, TNT, ABC and Fox Sports — into a streaming package. Priced at $42.99 a month, the product was designed to reach fans who wanted access to live sports content without a pricier cable plan that can be almost double that amount. Venu Sports targeted a launch date later this year. The plan was immediately opposed by Fubo, which sued the group on the grounds that it would block competitors and raise prices for consumers. The Justice Department also planned to scrutinize the project.
In August, Federal Judge Margaret Garnett ruled that the suit was likely to be upheld and issued an injunction temporarily barring the launch of Venu. A hearing was set for January 6, the same day Disney and Fubo announced their deal and the agreement to settle the lawsuit. Other competitors cried foul at news of the settlement, saying it didn’t resolve the anticompetitive aspects of Venu Sports.
EchoStar Corp. and pay-TV provider DirecTV Inc. immediately appealed to Garnett, arguing that Disney’s settlement with Fubo
more contracts of this nature are expected to be signed soon.
It added that this partnership highlights “growing investor confidence” in the Camp John Hay area. In addition, it noted that “this marks a milestone in the project’s development, blending residential living with the natural beauty and eco-tourism opportunities Baguio is renowned for.”
Bingcang said BCDA remains “fully committed to ensuring that your conditions will improve even more in the years ahead.”
“Our goal is not only to grow together but to provide a stable and thriving environment for all our partners.”
Meanwhile, the BCDA chief urged
amounted to a “payoff” and restores “an anticompetitive runway for the JV defendants to control the future of the live pay TV market.”
The ongoing legal pressure may have contributed to the sudden decision to scrap Venu, but the product was also flawed, said John Kosner, a sports media consultant and former executive with the NBA and ESPN. Venu would have had much of the available sports content, but only half of all the National Football League games and possibly slightly less than half of National Basketball Association games—since Warner Bros. lost out on NBA rights—as well as limited college sports.
“If you came to market with that product, you were just missing too many things that sports fans want,” he said. Shares of Fubo fell 4.5 percent in New York Friday as the major market averages all tumbled. Disney lost 1 percent, while Fox declined 1.6 percent and Warner Bros. slid 3.6 percent.
Live sports is one of the most valuable areas of TV. As more consumers
individuals who had signed lease contracts with CJH DevCo to engage with BCDA to facilitate a smooth transition.
On December 12, 2024, the Supreme Court upheld an arbitral ruling that ordered CJH DevCo to vacate the property it previously leased from BCDA, reinforcing the importance of upholding legal agreements.
The BCDA was able to regain control of Camp John Hay in line with the October 22,2024 Supreme Court resolution which allowed the state-run firm to recover the 247-hectare property (Related story: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/01/06/court-nixes-newattempt-to-bar-john-hay-returnto-govt/).
discontinue their cable subscriptions, the major players are rethinking how to package and price sports content. Disney is planning to launch a direct-to-consumer ESPN Flagship product later this year that would offer a full slate of TV programming available on the sports giant’s network as well as additional content on the streaming site ESPN+.
Disney’s deal with Fubo and its focus on its Flagship sports streaming service showed that the marketplace had moved beyond Venu, said Lee Berke, president and chief executive officer of consulting firm LHB Sports, Entertainment & Media Inc.
“Venu was increasingly becoming superfluous,” he said.
As part of the deal, Fubo would be able to offer a new “skinny bundle” with Disney’s ESPN and ABC channels, similar to what Venu would have offered. Disney also made deals with DirecTV to offer a portfolio of direct-to-consumer services. Berke said there could be potential for Fox to join forces with the ESPN Flagship and have some of its sports content distributed there. Bloomberg News
The subsidy is on top of TPB’s P1.32-billion allocation under the Tourism Promotions Fund, provided for by Republic Act No. 9593 (Tourism Act 2009), 25-percent each is sourced from the national government’s share of gaming proceeds, and from international airports and seaports. This year, the TPB is targeting to attract 6.3 million in visitor arrivals from its 13 key markets: South Korea, Japan, China, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia. Last year, there were some 4.57 million foreign tourists who arrived from all 13 markets, far exceeding the 3-million target TPB committed under the National Expenditure Program (NEP) 2024.
Meanwhile, the DOT said its lower branding budget this year as well as the country’s strict visa policy could be a challenge for the agency in attaining its visitor targets. Under the baseline scenario of the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028, the DOT is aiming for 8.4 million in inbound tourists this year to 11.5 million in 2028. The DOT has said it will recalibrate its targets under the remaining years of the NTDP owing to its missed 7.7-million arrivals target last year.
Under GAA 2025, the DOT does have access to some P4.6 billion in additional appropriations under the Tourism Development Fund (TDF), in accordance with RA 9593, as well as P243.8 million from Duty Free Philippines’s profits. The Commission on Audit earlier found the DOT to have some P78.41 million in unutilized funds under the TDF, accumulated from 2019 to 2023, which the former stated could have otherwise been used for DOT’s marketing efforts. (See, “Use tourism development fund, COA tells DOT,” in the BusinessMirror, Dec. 19, 2024.)
Frasco blamed its missed inbound tourists target last year on sluggish arrivals from mainland China, due to the suspension of the electronicvisa platform of the Department of Foreign Affairs, a move that sources shared with this paper, was ordered by Malacañang. Diplomatic tensions continue between Manila and Beijing over the latter’s occupation of the West Philippine Sea.
Only 5.95 million foreign tourists arrived in the Philippines last year, 9.15-percent higher than the arrivals in 2023, but 28-percent less than the prepandemic 8.3-million arrivals. (See, “Missed goal: 5.95-M foreign tourists visited PHL in 2024,” in the BusinessMirror , Jan. 6, 2025.)
FILIPINO jobseekers have recognized the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) as “one of the most sought-after” government agencies to work for, the agency said over the weekend.
Citing the Employee Job Happiness Index 2024 survey conducted by Jobstreet, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said this accolade reflects PPA’s initiatives to create a workplace that prioritizes growth, inclusivity, and innovation.
The survey revealed that Filipino jobseekers value work schedule flexibility, company reputation, and organizational values when considering employment opportunities.
“As we continue to improve our port facilities, we also invest in our people inside and outside of port areas. Without the employees, there will be no great outputs. We are proud to say that the PPA
is among the recognized government agencies when it comes to best HR practices,” Santiago said. He added that the PPA’s inclusion in the list—alongside institutions such as the Asian Development Bank, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and the Department of Education—“is a testament to its strong reputation and alignment with these priorities.”
Through the PPA’s Human Resources Management Department (HRMD) and its Career Enrichment Program (CEP), the agency has offered numerous scholarships to employees, enhancing their skills and aligning their growth with PPA’s objectives.
In 2023, the PPA provided 278 foreign and 136 local scholarships, alongside in-house training programs aimed at building core competencies. Lorenz S. Marasigan
BloomBerg News
New deposit insurance coverage bared soon
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE Philippine Deposit Insur-
ance Corp. (PDIC) expects to disclose the new maximum deposit insurance coverage (MDIC) in the first semester of the year.
PDIC President and CEO Roberto B. Tan recently told reporters that the study conducted by the PDIC to increase the MDIC has been completed. The PDIC Board is now discussing the new MDIC.
Currently, the MDIC of the PDIC is at P500,000. This has been the case since 2009 when then-President Gloria Arroyo signed into law the amendment of the PDIC charter that doubled the deposit insurance from P250,000.
“Probably we’ll announce it within the first half (of the year). The implementation, that will have to be studied in detail when do we start implementing it,” Tan said.
“It (MDIC) has been eroded by inflation. The present value of that now is not anymore 500 (thousand) years ago. So I think that was 2013. So, it’s been a long time,” he added. The increase in the MDIC carries a moral hazard for banks but, Tan said, the PDIC is closely coordinating with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to avoid this.
He said PDIC officials are “closely coordinating with Bangko Sentral on the policy umbrella for that; that increases the leeway of banks to entice more deposits.”
Last year, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said deposit insurance is not a moral hazard as this is created to prevent runs on individual banks.
Remolona also said “there’s no
By Vince Golle & Craig Stirling Bloomberg
NDERLYING US inflation
Uprobably cooled only a touch at the close of 2024 against a backdrop of a resilient job market and steadfast economy, supporting the Federal Reserve’s go-slow approach to further rate cuts.
The consumer price index excluding food and energy is seen rising 0.2 percent in December after four straight months of 0.3 percent increases, according to the median projection in a Bloomberg survey of economists. The core CPI, a better snapshot of underlying inflation, is forecast to have risen 3.3 percent from a year earlier—matching readings from the prior three months.
The annual figure suggests progress toward tamer inflation has essentially stalled, at a time when the labor market and demand show scant signs of distress. Employers added more than a quarter million jobs in December, well above forecasts, and the unemployment rate unexpectedly fell, according to government data released on Friday. The jobs figures were followed by a consumer survey that showed a spike in long-term inflation expectations.
Some 22 percent of those polled by the University of Michigan reported that buying big-ticket goods now would enable them to avoid future price hikes—a share that matches the largest since 1990.
Economists at some of the biggest US banks pared their forecasts for more rate reductions after the jobs report. Fed officials in December indicated that they’d only lower their benchmark twice in 2025, a less aggressive outlook than they had in September, and recent comments suggest even more restraint.
According to economists at Morgan Stanley & Co., recent momentum in the economy can be chalked up to elevated household net worth, pent-up spending on automobiles, and wage growth that’s outpacing inflation.
Wednesday’s CPI report will be followed a day later by December
such thing” as a cap or threshold on deposit insurance during a crisis to avoid moral hazard.
Banking&Finance LandBank, DBP to raise more funds via sale of debt papers
He said during a crisis, all deposits should be safe and have to be made whole. This is a lesson that is based on history.
“So, there is no moral hazard in having deposit insurance. Our deposit insurance system was designed for preventing runs on individual banks. It wasn’t designed for systemic risk, it wasn’t designed for a crisis,” Remolona said.
“In the face of a crisis, there’s no such thing as a threshold on deposit insurance, all deposits have to be safe, have to be made on—this is the lesson of history. It’s not a recent thing,” he added.
The BSP chief said in the case of one country that he refused to name, the governor of the central bank of that country said he will not “save banks” affected by the crisis the country was facing at that time.
However, this led to a bank run, which negatively affected the entire banking system. Given this, Remolona said the right time to “worry” about moral hazard is after a crisis when regulation has to be tightened.
“The only thing you can do is (place) all depositors hold. If you worry about moral hazard at that point, you’re already in crisis,” the BSP Governor said.
The PDIC was established on June 22, 1963, by Republic Act 3591. The law mandates the PDIC to protect depositors and help maintain stability in the financial system by providing deposit insurance, co-regulating banks with the BSP, and liquidating closed banks.
TBy Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
HE government’s two major state banks—Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP)—are looking to raise more funds this year through bond issuance. LandBank
On the sidelines of the 2025 “Annual Reception for the Banking Community,” LandBank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz told reporters about the lender’s plan to issue bonds in the second quarter of this year.
“What we’d like actually is to really further grow our green portfolio— our sustainability portfolio—and we want to match it with bonds that are either green, blue or sustainablelinked bonds,” Ortiz said.
The
of Finance (DOF) has been pushing for Congressional approval of amendments to the charters of the Landbank and the DBP to streamline the bond issuance process.
“This change would allow the banks to access capital more efficiently, reducing their reliance on national government support or dividend relief,” the DOF said. The DBP is also exploring provisions in its charter that would allow it to raise 30 percent of its funding from the capital markets, tapping the private sector or other government agencies to come in.
“It could be equity. It could be preferred equity or it could be common equity—[those are] in the bill; various options to raise money,” de Jesus added.
GSIS’s Q3 figures reveal robust financial health
THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) announced that it booked a P258-billion revenue as of the third quarter of 2024.
In a statement on Saturday, GSIS reported its overall revenue reached P258 billion as of the third quarter. This is higher by 27 percent from the P204 billion recorded during the same period in 2023. The pension fund’s net income from operations also increased by 58 percent to P120 billion as of endSeptember 2024. The GSIS also said
its total assets went up by 8 percent to P1.8 trillion as of the third quarter.
Meanwhile, the non-life insurance business of GSIS generated P8 billion in gross premiums written, a 60 percent increase from the previous year’s P5.5 billion.
“Our strong financial performance strengthens our capacity to serve our members through accessible loan programs while securing the long-term sustainability of their benefits,” GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo A. Veloso said.
As such, GSIS has released a total of P289.2 billion to over 1.2 million government employees nationwide under its flagship loan initiative multi-purpose loan (MPL) programs. Through the GSIS’s “Multipurpose Loan (MPL) Flex” program, about P282 billion was released to 1.049 million members since its launch in September 2023.
Disbursements increased by 35.5 percent compared to its first year of implementation when it extended P208.17 billion.
An additional P7.2 billion has
US inflation set to support Federal Reserve pause after jobs data
retail sales numbers, which are expected to confirm robust spending during the holiday season.
Meantime, Fed data on Friday may indicate manufacturing is stabilizing, albeit at a depressed level.
Economists project a 0.2 percent gain in December factory output, in line with November’s advance— the first back-to-back increase since February-March.
In Canada, US President-elect Trump’s threatened tariffs will be the overriding focus, with outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convening provincial premiers to discuss responses and Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson visiting Washington in a last-ditch bid to avert the crisis. Elsewhere, UK inflation data will draw attention after a week of market ructions, while China and Germany release economic growth numbers.
Asia
THE week brings trade figures from across the region, providing a snapshot of commerce at the end of 2024 before any potential tariffs are announced by the US. The flow of data from China continues, with key economic readings including gross domestic product late in the week.
The region’s biggest economy will be the main focus, kicking off with trade balance and export data for December, with analysts expecting to see activity remaining firm as global customers placed orders ahead of potential US levies. India, Indonesia and Singapore also release trade figures, while South Korea supplies trade price data which should provide an indication of demand.
In central banking, South Korea officials are expected to cut the main lending rate for the third time in a row. The economic outlook there has dimmed amid political turmoil, slowing domestic demand and expectations of a slide in exports, which drive growth.
Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino speaks Tuesday, and wages rising at the fastest pace in three decades could clear the way
for further rate hikes. Indonesia’s central bank also announces its latest rate decision after holding at the prior meeting.
China caps the week with a slew of data. Home prices likely continued their slide—though perhaps at a slower pace. Industrial production probably held firm and retail sales accelerated on the back of stimulus measures. GDP is set to show the economy managed to hit the “around 5 percent” annual growth target for 2024, something President Xi Jinping already announced at the end of December.
China’s Ministry of Commerce said Sunday that the country will “vigorously” boost consumption and stabilize foreign trade and investment this year.
Amid the deluge, Australia releases a number of labor market figures and joins Thailand in providing a look at consumer confidence. Malaysia reports advance GDP, which is expected to show a slower fourth quarter. And Indian consumer prices are seen weakening slightly.
Europe, Middle East, Africa THE UK will take the spotlight again after a week when a global bond selloff threatened to upend the Labour government’s whole approach to the public finances.
With consumer-price gains deemed by investors to be persis-
tent, data for December on Wednesday will draw attention. Inflation probably accelerated slightly further above the Bank of England’s 2 percent goal, to 2.7 percent, though the gauge focusing on services may show slowing.
Given the market backdrop, any BOE remarks will be closely monitored. Deputy Governor Sarah Breeden is scheduled to speak on Tuesday with fellow policymaker Alan Taylor on the calendar for the following day.
In Europe’s other current fiscal hotspot, France, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou will lay out his policy agenda to parliament on Tuesday, including details on the budget.
Data on Wednesday in Germany will probably confirm a second consecutive annual contraction in 2024. It’s also the first hint from within the G-7 of its performance in the final quarter of the year.
Euro-zone numbers include industrial production on Wednesday and a final reading of inflation on Friday. A few European Central Bank appearances are scheduled, including Vice President Luis de Guindos and chief economist Philip Lane, while the account of the Dec. 11-12 monetary-policy meeting is down for Thursday.
Two rate decisions are scheduled: On Wednesday, Romania’s central bank is expected to leave borrowing
costs unchanged to assess the inflation outlook and economic prospects with a tense political situation in the background.
Poland’s central bank will announce its decision the following day, most likely with no change. Governor Adam Glapinski will brief reporters on Friday.
Further afield, several consumerprice reports will be published on Wednesday:
Israel’s data may show inflation was steady in December at about 3.4 percent, above the government’s target of 1 percent to 3 percent. Warrelated tax hikes probably mean the rate will rise further in coming months before declining.
Russia will release inflation figures, weeks after the central bank held rates at a record-high 21 percent. Officials are struggling to contain price growth that’s been running at more than twice their 4 percent target for months.
Nigeria will publish its final inflation reading for 2024. Bloomberg Economics expects it to peak at 34.8 percent in December, opening room for monetary policy to become less restrictive later this year.
Latin America
BRAZILIAN inflation and rate expectations will likely push higher in the central bank’s weekly survey.
Local analysts have marked up their year-end 2025 forecasts for the two metrics by 40 basis points and 150 basis points, respectively, in just four weeks.
Markets are pricing in a year-end key rate that’s roughly 100 basis points higher than economists. The central bank next meets January 28 to January 29. The week also sees Argentina release December inflation data that’s expected to show the annual print slowing for an eighth month to just under 120 percent, after peaking at almost 290 percent in April. Economists surveyed by the central bank see it ending 2025 at 25.9 percent before declining further to 15.3 percent in 2026 and 10 percent in 2027.
been granted to 197,675 members under the “MPL Lite” program.
“The rapid growth of [the] MPL Flex in less than two years demonstrates both the program’s effectiveness and the significant demand for flexible financial solutions among our members,” Veloso said. MPL Flex offers government employees loans of up to 14 times their monthly base pay, capped at P5 million, which can be repaid for up to 15 years. A 6-percent annual interest rate applies in the loan program.
‘SSS rate hike adds burden to OFWs’
ACTIVISTS belonging to Migrante International Inc. have slammed the Social Security System (SSS) for imposing additional financial burden on overseas Filipino workers (OFW) by pushing through with its 1-percent premium hike this year.
In a statement issued last Sunday, the group called on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to scrap the last tranche of the rate hike under Republic Act (RA) 11199 (Social Security Act of 2018). Under RA 11199, the SSS premium should be raised from 14 percent to 15 percent this year.
“The value of the wages of our migrant workers abroad is declining because of the increasing cost of food, electricity, and other services” in the Philippines and in their host countries, Migrante International Deputy Secretary General Josie Pingkihan said in Filipino. Now, the Marcos government is pushing to raise the fees of SSS that must be paid by our OFWsm Pingkihan added. The organization chided the SSS as “insensitive” for implementing the premium hike even it if will result in “nonexistent social services” for OFWs abroad. Migrante International claimed the additional pension “will most likely go to fund the life of the SSS and the salaries of its board, not any meaningful rise in pensions.” SSS rules require OFWs to become its members. The SSS has said that Marcos did not stop the implementation of the premium hike since the latter is expected to help improve the benefits of its members and also extend its fund life. Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin said last week that while the Office of the President is open to study calls for the suspension of the SSS premium hike this year, they have yet to receive such a petition. Samuel P. Medenilla
Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
The US consumer price index is seen rising 0.2 percent in December after four straight months of 0.3 percent increases. PhotograPher: DaviD Paul Morris/BlooMBerg
WHY GREENLAND?
Remote but resource-rich island occupies a key position in a warming world
By Seth Borenstein The Associated Press
Remote, icy and mostly pristine, Greenland plays an outsized role in the daily weather experienced by billions of people and in the climate changes taking shape all over the planet.
Greenland is where climate change, scarce resources, tense geopolitics and new trade patterns all intersect, said Ohio University security and environment professor Geoff Dabelko.
The world’s largest island is now “central to the geopolitical, geoeconomic competition in many ways,” partly because of climate change, Dabelko said.
Since his first term in office, President-elect Donald Trump has expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, which is a semiautonomous territory of Denmark, a longtime U.S. ally and a founding member of NATO. It is also home to a large US military base.
Why is Greenland coveted?
Think of Greenland as an open refrigerator door or thermostat for a warming world, and it’s in a
region that is warming four times faster than the rest of the globe, said New York University climate scientist David Holland.
Locked inside are valuable rare earth minerals needed for telecommunications, as well as uranium, billions of untapped barrels of oil and a vast supply of natural gas that used to be inaccessible but is becoming less so.
Many of the same minerals are currently being supplied mostly by China, so other countries such as the United States are interested, Dabelko said. Three years ago, the Denmark government suspended oil developmentoffshore from the territory of 57,000 people.
But more than the oil, gas or minerals, there’s ice—a “ridiculous” amount, said climate scientist Eric Rignot of the University of California, Irvine.
If that ice melts, it would reshape coastlines across the globe and potentially shift weather patterns in such a dramatic manner that the threat was the basis of a Hollywood disaster movie. Greenland holds enough ice that if it all melts, the world’s seas would rise by 24 feet (7.4 meters). Nearly a foot of that is so-called zombie ice, already doomed to melt no
matter what happens, a 2022 study found.
Since 1992, Greenland has lost about 182 billion tons (169 billion metric tons) of ice each year, with losses hitting 489 billion tons a year (444 billion metric tons) in 2019.
Greenland will be “a key focus point” through the 21st century because of the effect its melting
ice sheet will have on sea levels, said Mark Serreze, director of the National Snow and Ice Data Center in Boulder, Colorado. “It will likely become a bigger contributor in the future.”
That impact is “perhaps unstoppable,” NYU’s Holland said.
Are other climate factors at play?
Greenland also serves as the
engine and on/off switch for a key ocean current that influences Earth’s climate in many ways, including hurricane and winter storm activity. It’s called the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, or AMOC, and it’s slowing down because more fresh water is being dumped into the ocean by melting ice in Greenland, Serreze said.
A shutdown of the AMOC conveyor belt is a much-feared climate tipping point that could plunge Europe and parts of North America into prolonged freezes, a scenario depicted in the 2004 movie “The Day After Tomorrow.”
“If this global current system were to slow substantially or even collapse altogether—as we know it has done in the past—normal temperature and precipitation patterns around the globe would change drastically,” said climate scientist Jennifer Francis of the Woodwell Climate Research Center. “Agriculture would be derailed, ecosystems would crash, and ‘normal’ weather would be a thing of the past.”
Greenland is also changing color as it melts from the white of ice, which reflects sunlight, heat and energy away from the planet, to the blue and green of the ocean and land, which absorb much more energy, Holland said. Greenland plays a role in the dramatic freeze that two-thirds of the United States is currently experiencing. And back in 2012, weather patterns over Greenland helped steer Superstorm Sandy into New York and New Jersey, according to winter weather expert Judah Cohen of the private firm Atmospheric and Environmental Research.
Because of Greenland’s mountains of ice, it also changes patterns in the jet stream, which brings storms across the globe and dictates daily weather. Often, especially in winter, a blocking system of high pressure off Greenland causes Arctic air to plunge to the west and east, smacking North America and Europe, Cohen said.
Why is Greenland’s location so important?
Because it straddles the Arctic circle between the United States, Russia and Europe, Greenland is a geopolitical prize that the U.S. and others have eyed for more than 150 years. It’s even more valuable as the Arctic opens up more to shipping and trade.
None of that takes into consideration the unique look of the ice-covered island that has some of the Earth’s oldest rocks.
“I see it as insanely beautiful. It’s eye-watering to be there,” said Holland, who has conducted research on the ice more than 30 times since 2007. “Pieces of ice the size of the Empire State Building are just crumbling off cliffs and crashing into the ocean. And also, the beautiful wildlife, all the seals and the killer whales. It’s just breathtaking.”
Greenland’s leader says his people don’t want to be Americans as Trump covets territory
COPENHAGEN, Denmark— Greenland’s prime minister said Friday that the mineralrich Arctic territory’s people don’t want to be Americans, but that he understands US President-elect Donald Trump’s interest in the island given its strategic location and h e’s open to greater cooperation with Washington. The comments from the Greenlandic leader, Múte B. Egede, came a fter Trump said earlier this week that he wouldn’t rule out using force or economic pressure in order to make Greenland—a semiautonomous territory of Denmark—a part o f the United States. Trump said that
it was a matter of national security for the US.
Egede acknowledged that Greenland is part of the North American continent, and “a place that t he Americans see as part of their world.” He said he hasn’t spoken to Trump, but that he’s open to discussions about what “unites us.” Cooperation is about dialogue. Cooperation means that you will work towards solutions,” he said.
Egede has been calling for independence for Greenland, casting D enmark as a colonial power that hasn’t always treated the Indigenous Inuit population well. “Greenland is for the Greenlandic
people. We do not want to be Danish, we do not want to be American. We want to be Greenlandic,” he said at a news conference alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen.
Trump’s desire for Greenland has sparked anxiety in Denmark as well as across Europe. The United States is a strong ally of 27-nation European Union and the leading member of the NATO alliance, and many Europeans were shocked by the suggestion that an incoming US leader could even consider using force against an ally.
But Frederiksen said that she sees a positive aspect in the discussion.
“The debate on Greenlandic independence and the latest announcements from the U.S. show us the l arge interest in Greenland,” she said. “Events which set in motion a lot of thoughts and feelings with many in Greenland and Denmark.”
“The US is our closest ally, and we will do everything to continue a strong cooperation,” she said.
Frederiksen and Egede spoke to journalists after a biannual assembly of Denmark and two territories of its kingdom, Greenland a nd the Faroe Islands. The meeting had been previously scheduled and wasn’t called in response to Trump’s recent remarks. Trump’s eldest son
also made a visit to Greenland on Tuesday, landing in a plane emblazoned with the word TRUMP and h anding out Make America Great Again caps to locals.
The Danish public broadcaster, DR, reported Friday that Trump’s team encouraged homeless and socially disadvantaged people in Greenland to appear in a video wearing the M AGA hats after being offered a free meal in a nice restaurant. The report quoted a local resident, Tom Amtof, who recognized some of those in a video broadcast by Trump’s team.
“They are being bribed, and it is deeply distasteful,” he said. Greenland has a population of
57,000. But it’s a vast territory possessing natural resources that include oil, gas, and rare earth elements, which are expected to become m ore accessible as ice melts because of climate change. It also has a key strategic location in the Arctic, where Russia, China and others are seeking to expand their footprint. Greenland, the world’s largest island, lies closer to the North American mainland than to Denmark. W hile Copenhagen is responsible for its foreign affairs and defense, the US also shares responsibility for Greenland’s defense and operates an air force base there based on a 1951 treaty. AP
A
bo At navigates large icebergs near the town of Kulusuk, in eastern Greenland, on August 15, 2019.
Don A l D t r ump Jr., center, smiles after arriving in nuuk , Greenland, tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Mindanao’s menswear momentum
K-pop star Chanty brings glow to Ever Organics
FILIPINO-KOREAN star Chanty, a member of the rising K-pop group Lapillus, is officially the newest face of local, Korean-inspired skincare brand Ever Organics. Chanty’s appointment as the brand’s ambassador is a perfect match. As the first Filipina to join a K-pop group, she embodies the brand’s mission to bring the best of Korean skincare technology to Filipino consumers.
“We’re thrilled to have Chanty join the Ever Organics family,” shares Patricia Melliza, brand manager of Ever Organics. “Her vibrant personality and dedication to her craft align perfectly with what the brand represents. We believe that Chanty’s influence will inspire many Filipinos to take care of their skin with products that utilize naturally extracted ingredients and formulations.”
Chanty is the face of Ever Organics’ Papaya Brightening Collection, a range of products designed to illuminate the skin. This collection is a perfect fit for Chanty’s bubbly personality and radiant glow. The collection consists of Ever Organics Papaya Whitening Facial Wash, Ever Organics Papaya Whitening Booster Serum, Ever Organics Papaya Brightening Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++, and Ever Organics Papaya Soothing Gel.
“I’m very excited to be part of the Ever Organics family,” says Chanty. As a busy artist, it’s important to have skincare products that are effective and gentle. Chanty confesses that “I’ve actually been using Ever Organics products even before, so I am happy to be their brand endorser.”
CAGAYAN DE ORO—The menswear scene in this bustling city is growing. But much of the business remains focused on formalwear such as suits, barong Tagalog and tuxedos. However, there’s a growing market for menswear beyond formal attire, as the men in CDO and Mindanao—especially the younger generation— are increasingly experimental with their style.
“The challenge post-pandemic has been the competition from online fast-fashion platforms. However, with the resurgence of events, men’s formalwear has made a comeback,” said Joshua Guibone. “Casual and street-style menswear still face challenges, but I believe that with designers offering fresh perspectives, as seen in the last Mindanao Fashion Summit [MFS], the overall menswear market will continue to thrive.”
Held at the Ayala Centrio Mall in August 2024, Guibone chaired the 13th MFS, which presented the trends forecast for holidays 2024 and spring/summer 2025 by the Oro Fashion Designers Guild (OFDG) and guest designers from all over Mindanao.
“The MFS serves as an avenue for Mindanaobased designers to showcase their artistry and fashion aesthetics to local consumers and to the world. Moreso, living in this social media era, the MFS being the longest-running annual fashion show in Mindanao can boost our online presence since it’s now part of the city’s core event for the Higalaay Festival,” explained Gil Macaibay III, the brainchild behind the style spectacle. Guibone and Macaibay are just two of the luminous talents of the “City of Golden Friendship.”
ALICE LIU (center) together with Golden ABC’s leadership team.
PENSHOPPE GROUP NAMES
ALICE LIU AS CEO, BERNIE LIU AS EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN
ON January 1, 2025, Bernie Liu officially stepped down as CEO of Golden ABC (GABC)—popularly known as the Penshoppe group—after serving in the role for nearly 30 years, beginning in 1996. In line with such move, Bernie focused on his role as executive chairman of both Golden ABC as well as its holding company, LH Paragon Inc. (LHPI) Assuming the role of Golden ABC’s CEO is Alice Liu, marking the culmination of a two-year long succession plan, as part of the company’s succession strategy. Alice, who has served as GABC’s president and COO since March of 2023, was elected and appointed by the company’s board of directors to serve as the new CEO.
With such appointment, she relinquishes her COO title but will continue to serve as the organization’s president. The transition is the result of meticulous planning, with Bernie and Alice working closely with the company’s leadership over the past two years to ensure a smooth handover.
UNLESS you don’t have any social media accounts, you’ve probably seen or heard of the shoe brand Vivaia through Facebook or Instagram ads or influencers’ testimonials. Vivaia shoes have also been spotted on Hollywood A-listers like Selena Gomez, Katie Holmes, Julia Roberts and Scarlett Johansson. Many of Vivaia’s shoe styles are washable and water-repellent. They’re also said to be like sneakers in terms of comfort. The elastic upper design makes any Vivaia footwear comfortable to wear.
Here, they showcase their menswear forecasts in a special fashion editorial:
JOSHUA GUIBONE
GUIBONE, who has joined national and international design competitions, called his MFS collection “Veil of Light.”
On Dave Flores: layers of soft Cerutti chiffon in emerald, lime, and off-white form a short-sleeved shirt, paired with soft beige tailored shorts. Styled with white socks and white shoes.
On James Radiaganding: layers of soft Cerutti chiffon in aqua, sky blue, navy and white create a short-sleeved shirt, paired with steel blue tailored shorts. Styled with white socks and white shoes.
On Jessie James Huyno: layers of soft Cerutti chiffon in maroon, pale peach, and beige make up a long-sleeved shirt, paired with old rose tailored shorts. Inspired by Romulo Olazo’s Diaphanous series of artworks, his collection explored transparency, layering, and the ethereal beauty found in the interplay of color and light.
“My collection captures the essence of Olazo’s work, where layers of pigment are meticulously placed to create a soft, almost spectral effect that is both mesmerizing and contemplative,” Guibone noted. The garments are designed to evoke a sense of movement and fluidity, as if the fabric itself is a canvas of shifting light and shadow. The collection embraces a minimalist approach to embellishments, allowing the layers themselves to serve as the primary form of ornamentation.
“‘Veil of Light’ invites the wearer to experience the art of dressing as an encounter with light itself—an
The footwear has insoles that, Vivaia says in a press release, “are continuously refined based on customer feedback to deliver exceptional comfort.” Vivaia shoes are made in collaboration with certified suppliers of Repreve, a branded recycled performance fiber that is used to make sustainable textiles with wicking, odor control, and waterrepelling and quick-drying properties. Repreve fabric also offers excellent stretch and comfort. The RepreveVivaia partnership transforms discarded PET plastic bottles into premium threads, which are woven into the shoes using advanced 3D knitting technology. Launched in 2020 in the United States, “Vivaia is on a mission to create shoes that are thoughtfully designed with high-quality, durable and ecofriendly materials. Each pair is made to keep up with contemporary trends, provide undeniable comfort and leave a positive impact on the world every step of the way.”
Since 2020, Vivaia has gained a cult following because of its simple, stylish, comfortable, and ecofriendly designs. The shoes have reached over 61 countries and regions, including South Korea, China,
immersion into a world where the boundaries of color and form are blurred, and where the invisible becomes visible through the gentle diffusion of layers. This collection celebrates the subtle and the sublime, with each piece telling a story of quiet sophistication and poetic resonance, echoing the timeless beauty of Romulo Olazo’s Diaphanous series,” said Guibone.
The MFS, Guibone believes, is a vital platform for local designers, especially those who lack opportunities to showcase their work elsewhere:
“Many designers have used MFS as a significant step forward in their careers, as it not only offers a space for fashion shows but also serves as a learning ground. Through mentorship from experienced designers, stylists, HMUAs, and fashion enthusiasts, MFS nurtures upcoming designers, guiding them toward growth and success in the fashion industry.”
GIL MACAIBAY III
ON Dave: a dramatic leather piece with jacket cropped paired with relaxed trousers and a lace threadwork that accentuate the cuffs. A look that defies masculinity in a modern and edgy fashion.
On James Radiaganding: a classic yet contemporary lace brocade tuxedo paired with a flared cut trousers. Making the classic look more
Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, Australia and France.
Best believe that wherever there is a Vivaia popup, there are long lines. This happened when Vivaia finally opened in the Philippines at Power Plant Mall on January 5.
The Philippine pop-up will have the brand’s signature and limited edition styles. Right now, the stocks are limited because many were sold-out within the first week of opening but there will be a restock this week.
The Power Plant pop-up has Vivaia’s best-selling styles, including Square-Toed Margot Mary Jane Flats, Almond Toe Tamia Ballet Flats, and Pointed-Toe Addison Slingback Heels. The Square-Toed Margot Mary Jane Flats are the bestsellers not just in the Philippines but globally. The Vivaia Pop-up Store is located in Level R2 Bridgeway, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City, and is open until March 31, 2025. For more information on the latest styles and store openings, follow @vivaia.philippines on Instagram and Facebook.
dramatic and alluring.
On Jessie James Huyno: an oversized tweed jacket paired with loose-strapped trunks. Aiming for a school boy-to-streetwear fashion look. Young, playful and relaxed.
An Adam Katz Sinding photograph for Rick Owens Fall/Winter 2021 collection inspired Macaibay’s collection he calls “Spectrum.”
“When you look at the photo, you can never tell if you’re looking at a man or a woman. It made me realize that fashion does not indicate sexuality,” Macaibay reflected. CDO’s most recognizable fashion figure used a variety of fabrics for his menswear collection such as lace, brocades, tulle, velvet, wool and leather; all fused together to create streetwear and luxury-wear pieces. “Client turnout after the pandemic is not that progressive but still we are bouncing back. With events popping up slowly and steadily, I would say that 80 percent of made-toorders are menswear, from parties to pageants to weddings,” bared Macaibay,
“Gender has so many classifications as identity fluctuates. So, my menswear is about genderless fashion and gender-fluidity,” Macaibay concluded. “ It is fashion being expansive, undefinable, phenomenal and existing beyond any boundaries.” n
VIVAIA shoes are made in collaboration with certified suppliers of Repreve, a branded recycled performance fiber. PHOTO FROM VIVAIA PHILIPPINES
GIL MACAIBAY III (above) and models Dave Flores, James Radiaganding, and Jessie James Huyno; Joshua Guibone with the models. PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROGER NAZAR LACTAO JR.
MODELS: James Marl Radiaganding at Mark Yaranon Models, Dave Bertrand Flores at Models’ Association of CDO, and Jessie James Huyno at Glitterati Models; Hair and makeup: Georgia Jalagat, Kristine Jalagat, Shany Oyao; Shot on location: Full Pot, 2nd floor D, Beehive Building, Yakal Street, Cagayan de Oro: Special thanks to Laine Walag and Ryla W. Lim.
HONOR Sets New Guinness World Record for HONOR X9c 5G
IT is official! Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines created history as its upcoming phone HONOR X9c 5G has set a new Guinness World Record for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously” after 264 participants simultaneously dropped the latest HONOR X9c 5G. The toughest phone HONOR X9c 5G was officially launched on January 10 live on Facebook.
“A win for HONOR is a win for the Filipinos. Prior to its launch, the toughest phone already has already set a Guinness World Record and this is a feat for everyone who supported us since day one. But we still have big news to share with everyone,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
The new HONOR X9c 5G sports an all-angle triple defense feature that has an SGS 5-Star rating for Drop Resistance. It also defied an industry standard as it can withstand up to twometer drops.
HONOR X9c 5G also has water resistance feature with an IP65M rating. It can be submerged up to 25 cm deep for a maximum of five minutes.
The biggest surprise of HONOR for the HONOR X9c 5G is the boiling test, a new trend that will make social media go wild yet again. With its heat resistance, the toughest phone can take extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C cold to 70°C hot.
Richard
For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.
com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor. com/ph/retailers/.
In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/ HONORTikTokShop).
Revolutionizing Clean Water with Healing Pool, New Patent Filed in South Korea
Rwater technology by filing a new patent.
Titled “Water Purification System Using Active Oxygen, UV Light, Nano Bubble Technology, Ultrafiltration, Hydrogen Generation, and Reverse Osmosis,” this patent has been filed in South Korea by the prestigious intellectual property law firm Kim & Chang.
This significant development not only marks a crucial point in Cariño’s illustrious career but also emphasizes the global relevance and growing demand for his pioneering innovations.
Represented by Kim & Chang, whose clients include major global brands like Louis Vuitton, Apple, BMW, and Visa, this patent further solidifies the international credibility and appeal of Cariño’s latest work.
Richard Cariño’s patent describes a sophisticated multi-stage purification system that not only ensures the production of ultra-clean water but also enriches it with stable hydrogen gas encapsulated in nano bubbles. This advanced system integrates several
processes: active oxygen injection, UV light sterilization, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis, culminating in the production of hydrogen-enriched water that offers substantial health benefits.
“Hydrogen-enriched water goes beyond mere cleanliness—it has therapeutic properties,” Cariño elaborates.
“This innovative system merges cutting-edge technology with health-promoting antioxidants to enhance cellular health and overall well-being. Moreover, it addresses the existing quality problems of drinking water, which range from contamination with pollutants to inadequate filtering of harmful substances.”
Ordinary hydrogen water systems often struggle with the issue of hydrogen gas escaping quickly after production, which reduces the effectiveness of the water’s health benefits. Cariño’s system ensures that the hydrogen remains encapsulated within tiny, stable nano bubbles, significantly prolonging the retention of hydrogen in the water and enhancing its therapeutic properties.
S
The decision to file this patent in South Korea, a global leader in technology and innovation, underscores the potential worldwide impact of the invention. Kim & Chang’s meticulous management of the patent showcases its readiness to engage multinational industries with a high caliber of expectations.
“South Korea’s robust commitment to high standards in innovation makes it an exemplary location for securing this patent,” Cariño notes. “With the expert assistance of Kim & Chang, we are set to ensure that this invention is both protected and poised for a significant global influence.”
The system is designed for extensive applicability, ranging from industrial to domestic uses. Its primary benefits include: Active Oxygen Injection: Oxidizes and eradicates contaminants, enhancing water quality.
UV Light Sterilization: Disinfects the water, effectively eliminating microorganisms.
Nano Bubble Technology: Improves gas exchange and stability, extending health benefits.
Hydrogen Enrichment: Infuses water with molecular hydrogen, renowned for its antioxidant properties.
Creating Your Roadmap to Green Living
IN today’s world, where environmental challenges loom large, the road to green living can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. The key lies in starting small but staying consistent, slowly building momentum toward a sustainable future for ourselves and the planet. What better way to start your roadmap to green living than by incorporating eco-friendly products— known as Green Finds—into your lifestyle. Let’s begin with your daily dinnerware and kitchen essentials. Check out the line of Green Finds at SM Home. You may want to consider using bamboo made items under the Eco Basic Bamboo brand that has spatulas, slotted turners, the ordinary turner and a rice spoon. To add some earth tones to your table, check out the Kea brand that has acacia round plates. rattan charger plates, tapered bowls and a charcuterie tray with two metal handles.
Kultura also offers Green Finds that add a splash of color to your table settings.
Reverse Osmosis: Strips the water of salts, heavy metals, and microscopic impurities, ensuring supreme purity.
The resulting product is a form of water that is exceptionally pure and enriched with hydrogen, promoting enhanced hydration and health. This technology is especially suitable for sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, as well as for daily household consumption.
With the support of Kim & Chang, Cariño’s patent is well-aligned with the needs of a global market that increasingly values sustainability, wellness, and innovative solutions.
“This innovation isn’t solely about providing clean water,” Cariño asserts. “It’s about redefining the role of water in health, sustainability, and industry. Our solution caters to the demands of a modern, health-conscious, and environmentally aware global community.”
This new patent builds upon the success of the Healing Pool, Cariño’s zero-chlorine, eco-friendly pool technology that integrates nano bubbles, active oxygen, and therapeutic minerals. Known for its health benefits and environmental sustainability, the Healing Pool has already set a high standard in wellness-focused water technologies.
Cariño’s journey from the Healing Pool to securing this latest patent is a testament to his enduring dedication to innovation. Collaborating with global leaders like Kim & Chang, he is strategically positioning his inventions to marry technological progress with international recognition.
As this patent begins to take effect in South Korea and potentially worldwide, Cariño’s vision of delivering clean, therapeutic, and sustainable water solutions is poised to redefine industry standards and enhance life across the globe.
The
CHERRY 4-in-1 Cordless Vacuum & Blower: A Must-Have after the Holidays
MAINTAINING a clean and organized house can be difficult during the post-holiday season. It’s simple for dirt, crumbs, and trash to gather throughout the chaos of cooking, wrapping gifts, and entertaining. The CHERRY 4-in-1 Cordless Vacuum & Blower serves as a flexible answer to all of your cleaning requirements. This useful tool is the ideal companion after the holidays because it can be used for anything from blowing away leaves to cleaning floors. Its remarkable specifications guarantee efficiency and power. For deep cleaning, it has a powerful 12,000Pa vacuum mode; for minor jobs, it has a 6,000Pa option. Its four-in-one capabilities—vaccum, suction, pump, and blower—make it perfect for a range of cleaning
Viomix
Intertrade Cafe Supply: Expanding Excellence from Korea to the Philippines applications. The HEPA filter makes sure that even the smallest particles are caught, enhancing the quality of the air. The strong blower is excellent for removing dust, leaves, or holiday decorations. Its high-speed 100,000 RPM motor
OUNDED in 2023, Viomix Intertrade Cafe Supply is
Fa dynamic and rapidly growing company based in Cebu, Philippines. Originally established in South Korea, Viomix has become a leading producer and distributor of premium cafe products. With a strong presence in over 100,000 cafes across South Korea and distribution channels in 45 countries worldwide, Viomix is renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and exceptional service in the global cafe supply industry.
Under the leadership of Terry Sim, the visionary President of Viomix Intertrade Cafe Supply, the company has made a bold move to expand its operations to the Philippine market, focusing in Metro Manila. This expansion allows Viomix to bring worldclass products to local businesses, helping to elevate the coffee culture in the Philippines. Viomix proudly distributes several premium brands that are highly regarded in the cafe industry, including: Pomona is Korea’s representative Café Ingredients Solution company and is a concentrated base brand. Based on technology and quality, the product has been supplied to famous café and restaurant franchises in Korea. It has grown together with the coffee culture of Korea for over 20 years. Pomona exports to more than 20 countries around the world. It is distributed distributing at a reasonable price exclusively in the Philippines.
Barista Queen Premium Powder is designed to easily create various flavored drinks. Barista Queen transforms drinks into masterpieces. Barista Queen’s premium powders come in flavors like vanilla, caramel, chocolate, matcha, among others, and are designed for use in beverages such as lattes, frappes, and other specialty drinks. These powders are marketed to make the process of crafting high-quality flavored drinks simpler and more efficient. Coffee in Coffee. The best quality of beans are secured and the company has developed its own way of blending which involves the use of Arabica beans that are known to have tender and delicate taste and aroma. It does not pre-roast raw beans and it makes it a rule to distribute beans that are three to seven days
Cariño:
New year, New media
PRESIDENT-ELECT Donald Trump’s decisive victory in the 2024 elections was historic, both politically and media-wise. He beat the odds to become only the second President elected to two non- consecutive terms.
And despite all the mistreatment, bullying, and harassment sadly thrown his way by the legacy media outlets we had grown up admiring—think CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS—he won both the popular and electoral votes overwhelmingly.
What happened?
Samuel Smith, Manager at the strategic communications Seven Letter answers this at prnewsonline.com.
Legacy media has long been admired for giving its audiences the real news it craved for.
But for some reason, it veered away from its traditional role in 2024. And with audiences being able to get news from other resources, it became clear that these outlet were biased towards certain candidates. And viewers were quick to catch on, leading to their decline in credibility.
With this, “today’s media landscape is not longer just
Twilio underlines 6 T rends To sh ape brand-cus To mer experiences in T h e ph ilippines for 2024 MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Twilio, the customer engagement platform that drives real-time, personalized experiences for today’s leading brands, today shared six trends that will shape brands’ customer experience strategies in the Philippines in 2025:
1. The future of brand relationships will be built on an “ecosystem of Trust.”
Tru S T h as always been the cornerstone of brand loyalty, but in 2025, consumer trust is poised to hit an all-time low. According to Twilio’s “2024 Consumer Preferences r e port,” 56 percent of consumers in APAC say they will not purchase from a brand they don’t trust. With consumers growing increasingly cynical and scrutinizing every interaction, brands must demonstrate greater respect by putting themselves in their customers’ shoes.
It’s time to return to the basics in 2025—keeping promises, following through, and delivering reliable and supportive experiences, during key moments of truth. As the focus shifts towards cultivating an “Ecosystem of Trust,” more brands will turn to Chief Trust Officers, to help redefine customer experience, marketing, and technology strategies for
building lasting customer relationships.
AI will continue to be a key driver in solidifying this “Ecosystem of Trust.”
Brands will increasingly bet on predictive AI as they strive to eliminate guesswork, refine recommendations, and improve communications ultimately strengthening brand-customer interactions.
2. consumers are giving retailers a run for their loyalty. more brands will turn away from traditional ‘earn-and-burn’ models.
Cu S TOME r loyalty programs driven mainly by discounts and cashbacks are on their way out. Instead, brands will shift towards creating experiences that surprise and delight customers, making them feel valued as their individual preferences and behavior are taken into account. For instance, instead of offering financial incentives, brands might surprise loyal customers with preferential access to new products, or exclusive invites to previews—which cost retailers little, but provide genuine value to loyal customers.
A key priority will be around strengthening “phygital” loyalty programs, combining in-store activations with special offers for loyalty members. Brands will become more intentional about leveraging data to test, iterate, and quickly refine their loyalty strategies—especially as 57 percent of Filipino consumers say they are likely to spend more on brands that deliver personalized experiences, according to Twilio’s “2024 State of Customer Engagement r ep ort.” With brands in the Philippines already citing “streamlined checkout” as a high priority for improving customer engagement in 2024, they will continue to leverage data not only to create meaningful moments for
newspapers, radio, and cable TV,” says Smith.
“It goes beyond blogs. Podcasters and social media influencers are the newest members of the “media.”
Media habits have changed.
According to Pew Research Center, Americans have always had trusted opinion leaders, but these now include Online influencers and podcast hosts apart from TV anchors, reporters, or community leaders.
It is said that President-elect Trump, upon the advice of his son Barron sought out podcasts, and was able to get the endorsement of podcast host Joe Rogan. This, plus the energy he showed throughout the campaign, and clever moves (remember McDonald’s and Trump driving a garbage truck?) brought him closer to voters and reached out to the heart of Americans. It is said that the 2024 Election may go down as the “podcast election.”
The new definition of media is a new challenge for public relations professionals, says Smith. Here, he also shares with us some tips on navigating the new media landscape in his ar -
customers but also to remove friction from the journey—including easing checkout and simplifying rewards redemption.
3. bots will move away from deflecting, towards genuinely connecting and engaging.
M OST c hatbots today serve as mere stopgaps, deflecting issues until a human agent steps in to provide real solutions.
In addition, chatbots trained on static resources like FAQs or manuals offer generic answers but often miss the opportunity to deliver truly individualized responses tailored to each customer. As they operate based on straightforward rules and predefined content, chatbots struggle to generate responses that truly simulate human engagement.
2025 will mark a turning point in frontline communications as the focus shifts towards eliminating friction in such chatbot engagements. Brands are already adopting conversational AI systems capable of better identifying user intent and generating sentences that mimic the nuances of human conversations. Conversational AI can engage with customers, reference previous interactions, and respond in a way that feels more dynamic and natural.
Beyond conversational AI, brands are also realizing the potential of intelligent AI agents that can offer or upsell products and services, take action on customer issues, make decisions within constraints, and operate across communication channels. These agents—which are not confined to chat windows—have an in-depth understanding of consumer preferences collected over time, past purchases, and previous customer interactions such as login issues or unresolved concerns. They can tailor their communication style to a specific context across channels. AI agents
ticle, The 2024 Election and the Changing World of Media.
n These new media members are often not journalists,” says Smith. They are not professionally trained or bound by a professional code of ethics. But they are trusted by their audiences, which presents a new opportunity for communicators to spread their message to a target audience through an earned channel.
n Know each new media’s area of trusted expertise. Some of these influencers may have a broader area. For example, Rogan can be seen by an expert by young men on how they fit into the world, which leaks into politics. On the other hand, a former athlete may be influential in issues of sports, but a non- factor in the realm of politics.
Effective communicators
can even be triggered based on an event in the customer journey. The holy grail is to make these AI agents invisible yet highly effective, creating a customer service experience that feels natural, effortless, and trusted. Contextual data can help turn this into reality, empowering AI agents to better anticipate consumer needs, resolve issues quickly, and eliminate the hassle of requiring customers to repeat themselves.
4. The future of verification and authentication is inclusive.
H I STO r I CALLy, S MS OTPs have been the go-to method for two-factor authentication (2FA). Their simplicity and wide adoption have made them a reliable choice, but they come with notable limitations, such as vulnerability to SIM swapping and security concerns around unencrypted messages.
In 2025, we can expect a significant shift in how brands approach user authentication, driven by the emergence of new messaging protocols like r C S, Silent Network Authentication (SNA), and Passkeys. SMS OTPs won’t disappear entirely, but will become a mere thread in organizations’ broader, more flexible authentication strategy.
r at her than relying on a one-size-fitsall solution, brands will tailor verification methods to suit different scenarios and user needs. r C S, for example, enables secure, encrypted, end-to-end messaging that eliminates the need for a code—users can simply click to approve their identity. While passkeys offer a smoother, frictionless experience, they are rapidly being deployed across all apps, and many developers have yet to fully adopt them. In these cases, SMS-based OTPs will remain an important fallback option, especially when users switch devices or face com -
should ensure they pitch the right influencers and podcaster based on the stories these new media voices want to tell and what their audiences would find interesting—the same principles that should guide your outreach to reporters.
n But traditional media is far from being an afterthought. It remains essential, especially when targeting elite and mass audiences. Traditional media still forms the foundation for what online influencers and podcast hosts will discuss.
Legacy news organizations still have a strong agenda-setting power, increasing the salience of an issue for the Public. But as media habits change, so should the definition communicators have of “media”.
In an evolving digital era,
patibility issues.
SNA is also on the rise as a friction-free authentication mechanism that works by checking if the user’s device is both known and connected to the right network in the right place. u n like other OTP methods, the end-user doesn’t need to interact with the app to enter digits or press buttons.
In 2025, more brands will adopt a combination of verification methods, considering factors like security requirements, device type, and user location, to create a more adaptive authentication process that balances robust security with a seamless u ser experience.
5. data will become the x factor as llms level the playing field.
D EP LO y IN g a b ot that can greet users, tell the time, and engage in small talk has become the baseline. What will set brands apart going forward is how they leverage their customer data to deliver truly seamless, superior experiences.
Smarter practices around data collection and management will take center stage in 2025. With more than half of Philippine brands (53%) concerned about compliance and data privacy, one emerging trend is the shift towards data expiration, as brands recognize the risks of holding excess data while customers grow more protective of their information. Moving forward, brands will focus on collecting only essential data—such as email, phone number, and name—while letting temporary or unnecessary data expire.
The importance of having clean and consistent contextual data cannot be overstated as brands increasingly integrate AI agents and conversational AI into the customer journey. More brands will invest in customer data platforms (CDPs) and scalable data validation frameworks
“the old media relations playbook isn’t dying,” says Smith, “it’s expanding.” Smart communicators will be able to take advantage of this for their company and clients.
PR Matters is a roundtable column by members of the local chapter of the United Kingdom-based International Public Relations Association (IPRA), the world’s premier association for senior professionals around the world. Millie Dizon, the Senior Vice President for Marketing and Communications of SM, is the former local chair.
We are devoting a special column each month to answer the reader’s questions about public relations. Please send your comments and questions to askipraphil@gmail.com.
to ensure data reliability and trustworthiness at scale.
6. brands ditch point solutions as they consider the bigger picture. Technology will bring teams closer together.
I N many organizations, marketing, sales, and customer service teams often operate in silos—each focused on their data and objectives. This fragmentation complicates attribution and campaign performance reviews due to the lack of a unified view of the customer.
In 2025, more organizations will move away from isolated, point solutions as they realize the value of breaking down silos. They will adopt more holistic, r OI -driven approaches to resolve issues such as redundant customer retargeting, and work towards better reallocating resources toward initiatives that enhance customer satisfaction. By aligning data seamlessly across business units, these brands can enable smarter, more personalized marketing that truly resonates with individual customers.
Emerging technologies like CDPs and data warehouses will continue to gain traction, serving as unifying forces that dissolve the traditional silos that exist within business divisions and teams. These technologies will serve as the cornerstone for collaboration, bringing together diverse teams and business units under a common language—data. Key leaders including the CTO, CMO, CPO, CCO, CDO, and C r O w ill increasingly contribute to shaping the data strategy and vision of an organization, fostering a comprehensive, unified view of the company and business practices (not just a customer).
For more information about Twilio, visit: www.twilio.com.
Novak: And then there’s just one...
Jia, June Mar, KQ feted in PSA awards
Tjust passed will be honored in the San Miguel Corp.-Philippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Awards Night at the Manila Hotel. Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) star June Mar Fajardo, collegiate prodigy Kevin Quiambao and volleyball celebrity Jia Morado-De Guzman will be feted with Special Awards from the country’s sports writing fraternity during January 27 gala night.
The 6-foot-10 Fajardo and the 23-year-old Quiambao will be hailed as 2024 Mr. Basketball as professional and amateur players, respectively, while the veteran Morado-De Guzman will be bestowed the title as Ms. Volleyball. They are part of the distinguished honor roll to be cited by the oldest media organization in the country in its traditional awards gathering co-presented by ArenaPlus, Cignal and MediaQuest.
Gy mnast Carlos Yulo leads the roster of awardees as the 2024 Athlete of the Year honor for his remarkable feat of winning two Olympic gold medals in Paris 2024. The night of celebration is supported by the 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.
Fajardo was named Mr. Basketball many times in the past, while Quiambao and Morado-De Guzman will receive the
Special Award for the first time.
The 35-year-old Fajardo reset his own record last year when he won the PBA Most Valuable Player trophy for the eighth time while leading San Miguel Beer to back-to-back Finals stint, including winning the Commissioner’s Cup. He was also a part of the Gilas Pilipinas team that reached the semifinals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
T he 6-foot-7 Quiambao was the biggest name in college basketball by guiding De La Salle to back-to-back University Athletic Association of the Philippines finals appearances and winning MVP honors for two straight seasons.
Like Fajardo, Quiambao, or KQ,is
also part of the Gilas pool that competed in both the FIBA Olympic and Asia Cup qualifiers.
And Morado-De Guzman?
The former Ateneo stalwart served as skipper and steady anchor of Alas Pilipinas’ bronze medal finishes in the Southeast Asian Women’s V. League series, where she was named Best Setter as well as in the Asian Women’s Volleyball Challenge Cup.
Past winners of the special awards include Scottie Thompson, Arwind Santos, Terrence Romeo, Calvin Abueva, Thirdy Ravena, Mark Caguioa, among others, along with volleybelles Alyssa Valdez, Mika Reyes, Dawn Macandili, Alyja Daphne Santiago, Sisi Rondina and Tots Carlos.
By Howard Fendrich The Associated Press
ELBOURNE,
MAustralia—And then there was one: The Big Three is down to just Novak Djokovic, who stands alone from a golden generation of men’s tennis now that Rafael Nadal has joined Roger Federer in retirement.
The Australian Open, which started Sunday, is the first Grand Slam tournament of 2025—and the first major championship to be held since Nadal, 38, played his final match at the Davis Cup in November. Federer’s last match came in 2021, although he didn’t announce he was done until 2022.
“It’s coming to an end, this era. It’s tough for us. We grew up watching all of them. We saw them winning all the events,” said Francisco Cerúndolo, a 26-year-old from Argentina who’s been ranked in the top 20. “Then suddenly we started playing against them, sharing the locker room or practicing with them, having conversations with them.”
D jokovic has won 10 of his 24 Slam trophies at Melbourne Park since making his Grand Slam debut there in 2005, and was scheduled to begin his bid for Nos. 11 and 25 on Monday
against 19-year-old Californian Nishesh Basavareddy, who recently announced he was leaving Stanford University to turn pro.
“It’s a nice number of years that I’ve been coming to Australia,” Djokovic said, “the place where I had the greatest Grand Slam success.”
One big change for him as he seeks to become the first player in tennis history with 25 major singles titles: He is being coached, at least for this event, by his former on-court rival, Andy Murray, who retired as a player last August.
We thought we’d give it a go and see if I can help,” said Murray, who collected three major titles and two Olympic singles gold medals. “Novak is not just one of the best tennis players of all-time. He’s one of the best athletes of all-time.”
O ne other difference this time in Melbourne is that Djokovic was accompanied by his wife and two children.
Basavareddy, roughly half the age of the 37-year-old Djokovic, grew up cheering for the Serb, as did plenty of other current players.
“He’s been my favorite player ever since I started watching [tennis], really,” at about age 6 or 7, Basavareddy said.
“Just watched a lot of his matches and tried to learn from him.”
S ome opted for Federer, a 20-time major champ, or Nadal, who won 22
Slam titles, as role models, of course. A s time passes, inevitably, Djokovic will move on from his playing days. Just not yet. And even if he went without a Grand Slam triumph last season for the first time since 2017, the man many call “Nole” did manage to collect the only piece of significant hardware missing from his tremendous resume, an Olympic singles gold medal.
Aiming to rebound from what, for him, was a so-so season, hampered by a surgically repaired knee—the Paris Games success represented his only tournament victory—Djokovic cut his 2024 short, skipping the Association of Tennis Professionals Finals, and got to work in the offseason with Murray. Now folks inside and outside the sport wonder how much, exactly, the No. 7-seeded Djokovic plans to compete and what, exactly, he can continue to win.
“I t was a sad moment when Roger went, because the injuries had a lot to do with it. And Rafa also struggled with injuries. Nole is still quite fit, I have to say,” said Wesley Koolhof, 35, who retired last year with one Grand Slam title in men’s doubles and one in mixed doubles. “You know it’s going to happen at one point that all the legends are going to
TBy Aldrin Quinto
ONY LASCUÑA heads to the P6-million The Country Club (TCC) Invitational as the most grizzled player looking to defend the title against young guns at the TCC course in the City of Santa Rosa in Laguna starting on January 28. Victory in the rich TCC Invitational was key to Lascuña’s impressive 2024 season, boosting his morale and paving the way for his return to the top of the Philippine Golf Tour (PGT) Order of Merit.
Now 54, Lascuña—twice winner of the TCC Invitational two decades
Lascuña, 54, brings veteran smarts to TCC
apart in 2004 and 2024—again aims to prove that course smarts and resilience can trump length off the tee as he seeks a third Don Pocholo Razon Memorial Cup crown. Three-time TCC Invitational champion Angelo Que is also among the veterans to watch as he seeks to become the winningest player in the history of the event—Japan-based Juvic Pagunsan is the only other three-time champion. Que won the event in 2007 and remains the only one to win in consecutive years in 2010 and 2011. The PGT’s young ones, meanwhile, are also ready to pounce and leading
Going for 25
the charge is Sean Jean Ramos, a 20-year-old oozing with confidence after securing an Asian Tour card just weeks ago through qualifying.
Former junior world champion Aidric Chan is also in the field, along with Korea’s Hyun Ho Rho, who at 19 went close to stealing the limelight form the local pros in the PGT.
A massive P2 million awaits the winner, but it won’t be an easy task on the 7,256-yard course featuring one of Asia’s most challenging finishing holes—the water-laced No. 18.
The winds, which can shift unpredictably, further complicate shot selection and execution.
Slams won. However, I certainly agree that many of Court’s wins in the Australian Open were at a time when many did not travel Down Under including the top seeds.
A s a long time tennis fan, when Pete Sampras achieved 14 Grand Slams surpassing Roy Emerson’s 12, I wondered if it would also take three decades before someone would overtake the former.
Little did I know that man was already playing towards the tail-end of Pistol Pete’s career and that was Roger Federer. Almost immediately, Federer won me over, and when he blew past Sampras’ record, I was fine. And then came Rafa Nadal and soon after Novak Djokovic.
W hat a privilege it is to watch Federer, Nadal and Djokovic at the same time. How they pushed each other is legendary. Obviously, the GOAT debate rages on. Tennis has taught me to be open to other players. Even back then, as much as I liked John McEnroe, I watched Bjorn Borg, Jimbo and others. When that Golden Generation of Americans captured the sport—Sampras, Andre Agassi, Michael Chang, Todd Martin, Malivai Washington, etc., I was transfixed.
A s Lascuña showed last year, Philippine-based Dutchman Guido Van de Valk two stagings before and Kim Joo Hyung in 2019, success at the TCC hinges on patience, a touch of luck and razor-sharp judgment as they all wound up winning with scores over par.
Also vying for honors are PGT leg winners Keanu Jahns, Reymon Jaraula, Zanieboy Gialon, Ira Alido and Clyde Mondilla, who conquered TCC to win the 2019 Solaire Philippine Open, the veteran players hoping their experience and strategic play will offset the physical advantages of younger competitors.
By Josef Ramos M
ELVIN JESURALEM wants nothing less than a convincing victory when he defends his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimum weight belt against erstwhile world champion Yudai Shigeoka of Japan in March. Jerusalem beat the Japanese via split decision last year.
Jerusalem, presently training in Banawa in Cebu City, said beating the rugged Japanese was “a little bit strange” despite scoring two knockdowns and took several rounds in their fight.
“It felt strange when you knockdown your opponent twice and when you knew that you won most of the rounds, but still end up winning by split decision,” told BusinessMirror on Sunday.
“That is why I must train smarter this time,” he said. The pride of Bukidnon, who packs a 23-3 win-loss record with 12 knockouts, said he’s working on new tactics and timing as well as power in his punches. Stamina is also tops in his priorities.
But that Federer-Nadal rivalry took tennis to another level. Even Novak crashing the party is incredible. W hile I am a huge fan of Federer, I think Djokovic is the GOAT. Not only does have more Slams, which is the main barometer for that title, but he also has an Olympic gold medal and the Association of Tennis Professionals Championship.
The problem why he isn’t universally accepted is because he was an anti-vaxxer at the height of the Covid-19 virus, and his being misinterpreted for his alleged support of the War in Ukraine by Vladimir Putin.
But didn’t he offer financial support to Ukrainian tennis player Sergey Stakhovsky when he enlisted in his nation’s army at the start of the war? Yes, he supported tennis players from Russia and Belarus participating in international tennis events and I certainly agree when he said that they deserve to play because they have nothing to do with what was going on. Everyone should understand that if you defy the Kremlin then your life or even your family’s lives are in danger. Yes, he has his miscues and we are referring to his screaming at ball boys and girls, his being a poor sport, his imitations of
For better and for worse… to love and to cherish On October 28, 2021, just three months after Eumir Felix Marcial clinched a boxing bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, he marries Princess Galarpe— his girlfriend of nine years—in a dream beach wedding ceremony at the exclusive Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club in Nasugbu. BusinessMirror sports writer Josef Ramos was personally invited by the couple to witness what was then the wedding of the year by any Filipino sports personality and took this wonderful photograph of the newly-weds. Things aren’t so good these days, though. Princess has filed in a Pasay City court a concubinage case against her husband on the grounds of infidelity and abuse and manipulative behavior. Indeed, there are no perfect relationships in a non-utopian world.
“I was drained after the middle rounds [fight against Shigeoka], so I must improve my stamina and energy,” said the two-time world champion Jerusalem. “But I need to develop new tactics to beat him again because I need to prove that my first win was no fluke. T he former World Boxing Organization minimum weight champion expects the 27-yearold Shigeoka (9-1 record with five knockouts) to be stronger, wilder and smarter.
“He [Yudai] does not like to lose again for sure,” he said. “I must be ready to protect myself at all times.” Jerusalem, 30, and International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimum weight king Pedro Taduran are the only reigning world champion Filipinos thus far. Jerusalem last fought in boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s Blow-by-Blow and beat former undefeated Mexican Luis Castillo via unanimous decision last September 22 in Mandaluyong City. He will fly to Japan soon for a training camp.
opponents that have become unpopular, and not to mention his parents who people say that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. In fact, some YouTuber documented all 89 (thus far) of Djokovic’s miscues on video. Wow, right? Whoever compiled that must really dislike the Serb. Sure, I agree, but does that tag of GOAT have to do with other factors unrelated to accomplishments?
NOVAK DJOKOVIC
JUNE MAR FAJARDO and Kevin Quiambao share Mr. Basketball honors for the professional and collegiate ranks, respectively, while Jia Morado-De Guzman is Ms. Volleyball of 2024.