LONG-TERM STRATEGY FOR SEMICONS PUSHED
AGOVERNMENT-
To best address the challenges in the semiconductor and electronics industry in the Philippines—the “single largest” Philippine export sector, accounting for almost 60 percent of total Philippine merchandise exports—OECD underscored the need to craft a “public, government-led strategy.”
“A government-led and authored strategy disseminated publicly would demonstrate a political commitment to the semiconductor industry in the Philippines and abroad,” the OECD report noted. OECD explained that while the government has funded private sector-led strategies, like the Product and Technology Holistic Strategy
See “Long-term,” A2
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
FINANCIAL transactions made via Instapay and Pesonet continued to surge and ended 2024 with double-digit growth rates in terms of volume and value, according to the latest data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The data showed that in terms of value, Instapay transactions amounted to P810.11 billion as of December 2024, a 47.38 percent growth from P549.65 billion as of December 2023.
For Pesonet, transactions amounted to P989.29 billion as of December 2024, or 30.5 percent higher than the P758.07 billion as of December 2023. In terms of the volume of transactions, Instapay transactions reached 159.94 million in 2024, a 64.879 percent growth from the 97.003 million transactions recorded in 2023. The data showed Pesonet transactions reached 9.08 million in 2024, 16.73 percent more than the 7.779 million transactions in 2023.
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
the grains agency should now maintain a buffer stock enough to cover 15 days of national rice consumption from the previous nine-day requirement. The NFA explained that with an average of 37,000 metric tons (MT) of national rice consumption daily, the additional six days of reserve would require the agency to procure
roughly 300,000 MT of palay from local farmers at around P23 per kilo.
According to NFA Administrator Larry Lacson, the initial allocation of P9 billion for palay procurement this year should be doubled to achieve its new buffer stocking requirement.
“We were initially allocated a budget of P9 billion for buffer stocking this year, based on the 9-day requirement. But the additional 6 days will necessitate an extra P9 billion for palay procurement, considering that our palay price procurement per kilo increased in 2024, Lacson said in a statement.
The amended RTL also earmarks
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
content, especially for young children—as raised by Project Dalisay— DepEd said that the CSE guidelines stipulate that the program is integrated into the K to 12 curriculum, contrary to the claithat it is taught as early as 0 to 4 years old.
“As part of the curriculum, CSE standards adopt a grade level, age and developmentally appropriate teaching and evaluation approach.”
The content, the DepEd pointed out, progressively becomes more complex, starting from the basic information, gradually progressing in complexity, following the development of a child—puberty, early adolescence, middle adolescence, late adolescence, and early adulthood.”
DepEd also said that the source referenced in the video of Project Dalisay is not a DepEd-produced material.
Points to improve
DEPED said it is now looking at possible points for integration and Improvement of CSE, which include appreciating the efforts of groups reiterating moral decision-making instead of disinformation, stressing that abstinence is still part of the integration, but “does not forbid those who are already sexually active from accessing possibly life-saving information on adolescent and sexual reproductive health; Sexual Reproductive Health services with parental consent.”
DepEd will also review DO 31 s. 2018 CSE Curriculum Guides to check for non-age appropriate contents, and to further include parents’ groups and other special interest groups in the review and consultation.
APAC businesses diversify to reduce supply-chain risks
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
ASIA-PACIFIC businesses are hedging their bets as a diversification strategy helps firms increase savings as well as mitigate supply-chain risks amid geopolitical tensions, according to a report by Economist Impact.
“Consistent with 2024 results, when it comes to managing supply-chain risks, this year’s survey results show that APAC businesses are primarily pursuing a strategy of diversification, the report noted.
According to Anderson Martins, the head of supply chain for Nestlé Philippines, there are two main benefits. “One is the potential cost savings—if we have more offers, more competition, it’s always better.” The second benefit, Martins said, relates to
Long-Term…
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(PATHS) roadmap, such a strategy is likely to “risk incoherence” with other strategic public goals. Moreover, OECD said a governmentled strategy developed in conjunction with relevant non-governmental stakeholders has “positive collaborative spillovers for the broader ecosystem.”
the business continuity plan, because relying on only one supplier when disruptions occur creates risks for organizations.
The Economist Impact report emphasized that regionalization and reshoring are also “gaining traction” among APAC businesses, but to a lesser extent than diversification.
“These approaches are particularly relevant as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global supply chains,” the report noted.
A notable trend is the adoption of “China Plus One” strategies, driven by factors such as the US tariffs on Chinese goods and rising labor costs in China.
“This shift has spurred the growth of alternative production hubs in countries such as Thailand and Vietnam,” it noted.
By establishing dual supply chains and increasing regional integration, firms are better
The intergovernmental organization said such a strategy should highlight key goals for developing the semiconductor industry in the Philippines.
One of these goals, the OECD report stressed, is encouraging firms involved in the Philippine assembly, testing and packaging to move up the value chain by enhancing the technology intensity and value added to their operations through increased investments in innovation and human capital.
positioned to mitigate geopolitical risks, reduce costs and strengthen oversight, it added.
According to the report, about 33 percent of the APAC-based executives surveyed are creating parallel supply chains to avoid geopolitical disruptions, and 29 percent are creating dual supply chains to cater for the Chinese and US markets.
For instance, HP, a leading tech producer, has initiated its largest supply-chain shift to reduce reliance on China.
“It aims to move 50 percent of its PC production outside of China in the short term and 70 percent in the long term, with Thailand emerging as a major supply hub,” the report noted.
Similarly, it said chipmakers such as Micron, Intel and Ferrotec are all investing in Malaysia as they adopt the China Plus One strategy.
The report pointed out that for businesses
“The strategy should also include clear commitments to medium- to long-term government programs in the semiconductor ecosystem,” the OECD report noted.
For instance, it said long-term continuity or expansion of funding for key initiatives (like the Advanced Device and Materials Testing Laboratory, Admatel) or an expansion of grants available to innovating firms could signal a strong commitment to the development of the Philippine ecosystem.
Similarly, OECD noted that a key focus could include “concrete” plans to meet human capital requirements in the semiconductor industry.
Key advantages
THE OECD underscored this importance as it highlighted that the Philippines “boasts” key advantages for investments in the semiconductor industry and a number of existing, successful programs and policies are in place to support local firms.
Moreover, it noted that the Philippine government and leading policy makers have publicly announced their commitment to encouraging the development of the local semiconductor ecosystem. OECD said this approach would provide a “single reference point” to understand the landscape of policies and incentives relevant to the ecosystem.
“Developing a strategy would help all parts of government streamline their policy-making efforts. Clear benchmarks and policy plans would communicate the Philippines’ vision for the semi-
targeting both Chinese and US markets, dual supply chains offer a “critical solution” to navigate the complexities of “increasingly” fragmented trade environments.
“These supply-chain models enable firms to adapt to divergent regulatory requirements and trade policies in each market, ensuring continuity and reducing the risk of operational delays,” the report said.
This balancing act, the report said, allows businesses to safeguard market share in both economies while avoiding overexposure to the risks associated with any single market.
The report, which quoted Simon Lacey, Head of Digital Trade and Geopolitics at the World Economic Forum, noted, “Nobody is walking away from China, but businesses are hedging their bets, recognizing that we can’t have all our eggs in one basket.”
conductor industry and further demonstrate a long-term commitment to policy and program continuity,” OECD noted.
OECD highlighted that electronics products are the “single largest” Philippine export industry, accounting for almost 60 percent of total Philippine merchandise exports.
“Most of these exports are finished semiconductor products that are subsequently incorporated into electronic devices, reflecting the Philippines’ role as a key player in assembly, testing and packaging services,” the report underscored.
On Tuesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he wants to create exclusive tax incentives for the semiconductor industry under Republic Act 12066 or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act to help boost the sector’s competitiveness. See story in A5 News, “Marcos eyes tax incentives for semiconductor industry.”
During his meeting with the Private Sector Advisory CouncilEducation and Jobs Sector Group (PSAC-EJSG) in Malacañang, the chief executive sought the inputs from semiconductor locators for crafting the said incentive scheme.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) recently reported that electronic products, which mostly comes from the semiconductor industry, was the country’s top export product from January to November 2024 and generated US$2.79 billion worth of earnings.
the number of smokers; and an increase in smoking-related illnesses and deaths.
Projections showed the government would lose P240.3 billion in excise tax collections over the next three years due to rampant illicit tobacco trade and misdeclaration of vapor products.
Sin tax hikes to proceed MEANWHILE , the Sin Tax Coalition has welcomed the decision of the leadership of the House of Representatives to halt deliberations on House Bill 11279, which seeks a temporary suspension of annual tax hikes on cigarettes and other tobacco products.
In a statement, the coalition praised the decision to cancel discussions on what it termed the “Sin Tax Sabotage Bill,” acknowledging the efforts of lawmakers for listening to health advocates and heeding public opinion.
The coalition emphasized the potential dangers of lowering tobacco taxes, asserting that it would lead to a decline in excise tax revenues, which fund crucial healthcare programs; a rise in
P2 billion for the NFA rice procurement from rice tariffs that would exceed the P30 billion allocated to the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).
For Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who also chairs the NFA Council, the grains agency’s palay procurement should “ideally” account for up to 20 percent of the country’s total domestic production— around 4 million metric tons (MMT)—compared to the current rate of about 3 to 4 percent.
“The NFA used to be a market maker—both a buyer and seller of rice. Now it is restricted to buffer stocking and buying rice from local rice farmers,” Laurel said.
“We aim to restore its influence on palay pricing by purchasing more local rice, helping to boost Filipino farmers profitability,” he added. Meanwhile, the NFA Council approved on Tuesday a resolution allowing the grains agency to sell rice to local government units (LGUs) for disaster preparedness. Lacson noted that the NFA should “ideally” release around 25,000 MT of rice monthly to LGUs without jeopardizing the buffer stock needed to respond to emergencies, calamities, or a national food emergency declaration aimed at stabilizing rice supply and prices.
He said the revenue would be used for personnel’s salary, operating expenses, and palay procurement.
“[Gagamitin ito] pang sueldo ng mga personnel at for operating expenses, pambili ng palay [This will be used for salaries of personnel, operating expenses and for palay purchase], ” Lacson told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday.
“The voice of many sectors is loud and clear: this bill will sabotage the gains of the Sin Tax Reform Law and worsen public health outcomes,” the coalition stated.
The group also encouraged the administration to align with the House’s decision and uphold the integrity of sin taxes.
It also called on the Department of Finance to fulfill the department’s mandate of protecting financial integrity and revenue collection.
The proposed amendment to the National Internal Revenue Code would suspend scheduled annual tax hikes on cigarettes, heated tobacco, and vapor products for 2026. Under the proposal, the tax rates would resume their regular increments starting in January 2027, increasing by 4 percent to 5 percent triennially or every three years thereafter.
The bill was filed following growing concerns over a surge in the illicit tobacco trade, which is estimated to have cost the government up to P129 billion in the past three years.
InstaPay is a real-time low-value EFT credit push payment scheme for transaction amounts up to P50,000. The retail payment system was launched on 23 April 2018. It is designed to facilitate small value payments that will be especially useful for the purchase of retail goods, paying toll fees and tickets, as well as for e-commerce, which shall enable, among others, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
As of December 2024, there were a total of 90 Instapay participants. This is composed of 79 senders and receivers; nine receivers only; and two senders only. Of the total, there were 25 EMINon-Bank Financial Institutions (EMI-NBFIs) participants; 22 Universal and Commercial Banks (UKBs); 20 thrift banks (TBs); 18 Rural Banks (RBs); and five digital banks (DGBs). The Philippine EFT System and Operations Network (PESONet), the first ACH under the National Retail Payment System, was launched on 08 November 2017. It is a batch electronic fund transfer (EFT) credit payment scheme, which can be considered an electronic alternative to the paper-based check system.
As of December 2024, there were a total of 116 Pesonet participants composed of RBs numbering 41 followed by UKBs at 40; TBs, 19; EMINBFIs, 11; and DGBs, five. BancNet is the designated clearing switch operator for InstaPay for a two-year transitory period beginning from the time of its launch. The Philippine Clearing House Corporation (PCHC) is the designated clearing switch operator for PESONet for a two-year transitory period beginning from the time of PESONet’s launch.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
NBI set to file charges against suspects in PCSO exec’s killing
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz’ @joveemarie
HE National Bureau of Investigation
T(NBI) has committed to file criminal charges next month against the suspects in the July 2020 assassination of retired police general and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
During the 14th meeting of the House Quadruple Committee (QuadCom) on Tuesday, NBI Deputy Director Ferdinand Lavin revealed that the agency is finalizing its investigation and awaiting forensic examination results on electronic devices surrendered by Barayuga’s wife.
“For the NBI we are already wrapping up, or we are concluding the investigation
on the Barayuga murder, and in about three weeks time we shall be filing our cases against those involved,” Lavin said in response to questions from Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop, the QuadCom’s senior vice chairman.
Lavin explained that Barayuga’s wife turned over the gadgets to NBI Agent Arnold Diaz in Iloilo, who secured warrants for their examination. The forensic results are expected to be available within two to three weeks.
Acop sought clarification, asking, “In three weeks’ time, cases will be filed. Did I understand your answer correctly?” Lavin affirmed this timeline.
The House QuadCom advanced the investigation into Barayuga’s killing in September, following testimony from Police
Lt. Col. Santi Mendoza. Mendoza implicated two former police colonels—Royina Garma and Edilberto Leonardo—both of whom were linked to then-President Rodrigo Duterte.
Leonardo and Garma are among former police officers reportedly close to Duterte, who appointed the former as National Police Commission member and the latter as PCSO general manager after their retirement from police service.
Mendoza testified that Leonardo had contacted him in October 2019 about “operating” on a high-value target allegedly connected to illegal drugs. This target was later identified as Barayuga.
Mendoza told the committee that Leonardo’s request was allegedly initiated by then-PCSO General Manager Garma.
House reaffirms support for Pag-asa
THE leadership of the House of Representatives has reaffirmed its dedication to the welfare and development of Pag-asa Island at the West Philippine Sea.
Mendoza stated that the term “operate” was commonly understood during the Duterte administration to include extrajudicial killings. Following Leonardo’s directive, Mendoza recruited Nelson Mariano, an informant, to secure a hitman.
Mariano in turn enlisted “Loloy” to carry out the murder for P300,000, which was paid by “Toks,” reportedly Garma’s personal aide.
On the day of the ambush, Mendoza testified that Leonardo and Garma supplied real-time information about Barayuga’s movements. Details such as the vehicle and license plate number were relayed, enabling the assassination near the PCSO office in Mandaluyong City on July 30, 2020.
Garma, who was named in Mendoza’s affidavit, is currently in the United States. She was detained by US immigration officials at San Francisco airport on November 7 due to visa issues. Philippine authorities are monitoring her case and expect her deportation, but no updates have been issued regarding her status.
meeting everyday needs. Yet, despite these, you remain steadfast,” Romualdez said in his message read by Arenas.
Coast Guard sends another vessel to monitor Chinese ships at WPS
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday night announced that its offshore patrol vessel, BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301), was relieved by the multi-role response vessel BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406), to keep watch on the illegal presence of Chinese ships off Zambales.
In a statement, the PCG said the deployment of the 44-meter BRP Suluan was done to ensure constant watch on Chinese ships operating illegally on the coast of Zambales at an average distance of 60 to 70 nautical miles.
Initially, the PCG ship was tasked to keep watch on China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3304 which was relieved by another Chinese craft with bow number 3103 early Tuesday.
CCG 3103, effectively preventing the larger vessel from approaching the Zambales coastline, the PCG added.
“Furthermore, the PCG vessel has aggressively radio-challenged CCG 3103, asserting that its illegal presence violates the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea [Unclos], and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” the PCG said.
At around 9:00 p.m. Tuesday, the PCG said the CCG vessel 5901, called the “monster ship,” was monitored 113 nautical miles away from Zambales but remains within the exclusive economic zone at a distance of 19 nautical miles from Bajo de Masinloc (BDM).
“Meanwhile, CCG 3304 is approximately 105 nautical miles from Zambales, approaching BDM at a distance of 28 nautical miles. Additionally, CCG 3103 continues its illegal patrol off the coast of Zambales, currently 76 nautical miles from Pundaquit, Zambales,” the agency added.
This message was delivered by House Committee on Foreign Affairs Chairperson and Pangasinan Rep. Rachel Arenas, on behalf of Romualdez, during a visit last week during which the delegation also
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez assured the residents of Pagasa of Congress’ full backing in overcoming challenges and enhancing their quality of life.
distributed food and grocery items to the island’s 230 residents, including military and other uniformed personnel stationed there.
“I understand the challenges of living here—the distance from major cities, the lack of facilities, and the difficulty of
Among the key initiatives announced was the establishment of a rural health unit to provide accessible medical services, which is vital to meeting the community’s health needs.
See “Pag-asa,” A4
“Although this new vessel is smaller than its predecessor, it measures 77.7 meters in length and 10.4 meters in width, making it still larger than the 44-meter BRP Suluan,” the PCG said. Despite challenging sea conditions with wave heights of two to three meters, BRP Suluan has maintained close monitoring of
Despite these developments, the PCG reiterated its commitment to safeguard the country’s maritime interests and upholding
‘Dire tidings for OFW remittances, BPO industry with Trump’s return’
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
STRICTER American immigration policies under US President Donald Trump could threaten key sectors in the Philippines, including the remittances of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.
Michael McCullough, chairman of real estate company KMC Savills, warned that a potential decline in remittances could destabilize the nation’s economy.
“Reduced remittances could affect domestic consumption, real estate investments, and economic stability,” he said on Tuesday.
Data from KMC Savills revealed that OFW remittances grew from about $27 billion in 2016 to nearly $35 billion in 2024, although a dip to $29 billion occurred in 2020 during
the Covid-19 pandemic. As of September 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority showed a total of 2.16 million OFWs, up from 1.96 million in 2022. In a separate report from the Bangko Sentral, the US remains the largest source of cash remittances to the Philippines, accounting for 41.3 percent.
In addition, Trump’s “America First” approach, which advocates for the reshoring of American jobs and reduced reliance on foreign labor, McCullough said it could have implications for the country’s BPO industry.
The sector, which is heavily dependent on foreign clients, particularly from the US, recorded $38 billion in revenue in 2024, up from $35.5 billion in 2023, according to the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines
on January 16.
“Any push to bring jobs back to the US might reduce the demand for outsourcing services, affecting millions of Filipino workers and the nearly $40 billion annual revenue from this sector,” he explained.
“The US unemployment rate is historically low, and we have yet to see widespread job losses from AI disruption,” he added.
US-China relationship
SHOULD Trump pursue a confrontational stance toward China, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), McCullough expressed belief the Philippines may feel compelled to assert its territorial claims more strongly.
However, he warned that a weakened US presence in the region could embolden China.
“Trump’s antiwar attitude and
focus on Greenland and the Panama Canal might reduce or stop some of the defense budget spending towards building new bases in the Philippines,” he explained.
Under the Biden administration, the US reaffirmed its military backing to the Philippines, especially as Chinese vessels continued their “dangerous maneuvers” in the WPS.”
The Philippines and the US are both signatories of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, which stipulates that an armed attack in the Pacific on either country would jeopardize the peace of both, with both agreeing to act in unison to address any common threat.
In his first State of the Nation Address, President Marcos reiterated the country’s independent foreign policy, emphasizing the country’s position as “a friend to all and an enemy to none.”
Maintain momentum of service, Bautista tells DOTr employees
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) will intensify efforts to improve the transportation industry.
This was said by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista as he called on the personnel of the agency to work on continuing the “momentum we built in the previous year,” saying that this “must not only be maintained but amplified.”
Speaking on the occasion of the agency’s 126th anniversary, Bautista said: “The road ahead is filled with promise. Our shared mission to build a more connected Philippines inspires us to push beyond our limits and make every effort count. Every project we
complete, every policy we implement, and every problem we solve brings us closer to realizing our vision for a world-class transportation system.”
The DOTr completed 53 airport projects as of August 2024, a substantial increase from the 17 airports finished in June 2022. It has also awarded several airport projects to the private sector, including the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia), the BoholPanglao International Airport, and Laguindingan International Airport.
Furthermore, the department made progress in rail transport, with ongoing projects such as the LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension and the MRT Line 7, both aimed at improving urban mobility. Last year also saw the DOTr intensifying its efforts in implement -
Romualdez also highlighted current and future livelihood programs aimed at creating economic opportunities for the islanders, ensuring their long-term resilience. Congress, he promised, will continue to allocate the resources necessary to support the community’s growth. Moreover, the lower chamber commended the resilience and determination of the residents and assured them that Congress remains committed to address their concerns. Pag-asa Island, part of the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea, is the largest Philippine-occupied feature in the Spratly Islands. It plays a critical role
ing the much-criticized Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), which required operators to form cooperatives to professionalize their operations.
Looking ahead, Bautista emphasized the importance of collaboration among sectoral offices and attached agencies to overcome challenges such as budget constraints and right-of-way issues.
“Let us not view constraints as limitations but as catalysts that compel us to think differently, work smarter and achieve better outcomes. It is through these moments of adversity that we demonstrate our strength as an organization. Together, we have proven time and again that we can rise to any challenge with courage and commitment,” he said.
in asserting the country’s sovereignty and protecting its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) under international law.
Despite geopolitical tensions in the region, the island remains home to a close-knit Filipino community and personnel from the military and other uniformed services.
The visit, led by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, sought to evaluate the
The DOTr is formulating a 30-year holistic public transport master plan to improve the movement of passengers and cargo. The Philippine Transport System Master Plan (2025-2055) aims to provide a comprehensive framework for sustainable transportation development in the country.
Despite facing a budget reduction from the proposed P180.14 billion to P87.24 billion for 2025, Bautista said the DOTr remains committed to its infrastructure projects.
“Budget constraints, right-of-way issues, and operational hurdles are not new to us. Yet, these obstacles should not deter us; rather, they must fuel our resolve to collaborate and find solutions. Each challenge is an opportunity to harness our creativity and resourcefulness,” Bautista said.
living conditions and challenges faced by the island’s 79 families. These include issues related to health, livelihoods, and infrastructure. The delegation included Rizal Rep. Emigdio Tanjuatco III and 1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez, alongside representatives from the Office of the Speaker, the Caretaker District Office, and the Office of the Mayor.
In his speech, Romualdez also high -
Packaging industry needs more government
By Andrea San Juan @andreasanjuan
AMID the growth of the food manufacturing sector, the local packaging industry is requiring more financial support from the government to make micro,small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) more competitive, to the Asian Packaging Federation (APF) said.
“The packaging industry is growing every year. The major part of the packaging industry is the food packaging wherein we have a lot of development in the food manufacturing sector. That is why some of the members of the Packing Institute of the Philippines have been expanding their facilities because of the demand for products,” APF President Joseph Ross Jocson said on Tuesday during the press briefing for the 5th Edition of the Propak Philippines, an international processing and packaging trade event.
While the industry is growing every year due to the growing food manufacturing sector, Jocson said the local packaging industry cannot thrive alone as it needs more budget allocation from the government. He cited the packaging of durian and pineapple products in Bangkok as an example, saying that the Thai government has given full support to the packaging industry.
For the Philippines, Jocson said, “We hope mabigyan din ng focus ng government. We may have [Department of Science and Technology] DOST here pero medyo kulang pa . Our packaging center here is much more behind than what Korea or Thailand have, therefore medyo nahuhuli tayo when it comes to those designs.”
With this, he pointed out the need “to really upscale the packaging design and packaging product so we need support in that aspect. Hindi kaya ng industry, kailangan din ng government support.”
lighted the national government’s commitment under President Marcos to enhance the welfare of Pag-asa residents.
“We stand united with you in making your lives better and more comfortable.
With the support of our beloved President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., projects for the island continue—including the establishment of a rural health unit and additional facilities,” he said.
This support, he added, comes in the form of earmarking additional budget for DOST and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
“Because that’s the only way that MSMEs can avail of those services, kasi the multinational [companies] kaya dahil may pera sila but the local, small industries, the ones who are in the backyard industry they need support, and that’s where the DTI and DOST comes in,” added Jocson.
ProPak Philippines, the annual international processing and packaing trade event for food, beverage, pharmaceutical and [fast-moving consumer goods] FMCG has announced the fifth edition from February 12 to 14 at the World Trade Center.
In a statement on Tuesday, Propak Philippines said the 2025 edition will take over the whole World Trade Center and expects to bring over 250 industry leading exhibitors and brands from Philippines and more than 20 countries around the world to meet with over 12,000 trade visitors, buyers, and stakeholders.
This event is expected to welcome MSME, SME, and multinational corporations to “find solutions for consumers and market demands: from new product development, new and sustainable packaging designs, sustainable processing innovation and new food safety regulations.”
Propak said the international presence is “strong” in 2025 by having companies such as Wolf, Multivac, Middleby, and Heat & Control from Japan, Germany, and USA and international pavilions from Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan, China and Italy—with highlight on IPACK-IMA Italy—Informa Marketsstrategic partnership—these country pavilions will bring their most advanced & suitable processing and packaging technologies to the Philippines.
The delegation also hosted a boodle fight lunch for military personnel stationed on the island, symbolizing gratitude and acknowledgment of their invaluable service.
Romualdez underscored the significance of Pag-asa Island not only as a territorial asset but also as a vibrant home for Filipinos on the frontlines of national sovereignty.
BI to initiate deportation proceedings vs alleged Chinese spy
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Bureau of Immigra-
tion (BI) Wednesday said it would initiate deportation proceedings against the Chinese national who was earlier arrested along with two Filipinos for alleged illegal surveillance and spying activities on military facilities and other critical infrastructures.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, in a statement, said the agency has already obtained the details of the alleged Chinese spy but did not release the name of the latter despite that other key government officials had already
identified him last Monday as Deng Yuanqing.
Based on the data gathered by the BI, the alleged Chinese spy is 33 years old and has travelled in and out of the Philippines since 2015 and married to a Filipina.
Viado said they have shared the information with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to support the ongoing investigation against the subject.
The BI Chief said that they will be initiating deportation proceedings against him, to add to the other cases that will be filed against the said person.
He clarified that they will not
implement deportation against the person until all his local cases and penalties have been resolved and served.
“We will ensure that we will identify any foreign cohorts that might be in the country assisting him,” said Viado.
“These alleged spies have no place in the President’s Bagong Pilipinas. They will face serious punishment for their crimes,” he warned.
Last Monday, heads of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Department of Justice and the National Bureau of Investigation held a joint conference to announce the arrest of Deng and two
Filipinos identified as Ronel Jojo Balundo Besa and Jayson Amado Fernandez.
The group had been under surveillance for allegedly conducting espionage activities around Luzon, including where Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites are located.
Prior to their arrest, NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the agency received an intelligence report from the AFP-Naval Operatives, that a group of Chinese nationals, in the guise of developing autonomous vehicle, is allegedly engaged in surveillance operations, unlawfully obtaining and disclosing information affecting national defense, utilizing
Marcos eyes tax incentives for semiconductor industry
PBy Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Marcos wants to create exclusive tax incentives for the semiconductor industry under Republic Act 12066 or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act to help boost the sector’s competitiveness.
During his meeting with the Private Sector Advisory Council-Education and Jobs Sector Group (PSAC-EJSG) in Malacañang on Tuesday, Marcos sought the inputs from semiconductor locators for crafting the said incentive scheme.
DOLE’s
“We really should focus on it more. So, let’s do that now. We need to hear from the industry to see what you suggest, and what we can try to incorporate,” Marcos told representatives of the semiconductor industry during the meeting. He noted the measure aims to provide similar industry-specific incentives given to some sectors such as those in car manufacturing under CREATE MORE to semiconductor locators.
Aside from incentives, Marcos also discussed proposals from PSAC-EJSG regarding education and workforce development.
The President highlighted the need for the government to support the
semiconductor industry as one of the country’s major exports products.
“Actually, we really need to push on the semiconductor industry. It’s because, again, it’s not something that we had in mind but the situation – considering how much money we make as the income we get from exports already,” Marcos said.
In its latest data, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that electronic products, which mostly comes from the semiconductor industry, was the country’s top export product from January to November 2024 and generated US$2.79 billion worth of earnings.
He said the proposed incentive scheme for the semiconductor industry will be incorporated in the implementing rules
(IRR) of RA 12066, which is expected to be finalized by next month.
“We’ll do it through the IRR probably because it took us such a while to get the CREATE MORE [enacted] in the first place,” Marcos said.
Marcos signed RA 12066 as part of the country’s bid to attract more investors by further standardizing the country’s tax regime.
Among the law’s salient features is it reduced Corporate Income Tax from 25 percent to 20 percent, raised tax deduction on power expenses from 50 percent to 100 percent, and extended the maximum duration of tax incentives availment from 17 years to 27 years.
new Alien Employment Permit rules prioritize skills transfer to Filipinos
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
has issued updated guidelines for Alien Employment Permits (AEP), placing a strong emphasis on skills transfer programs to enhance the Filipino workforce and reduce reliance on foreign labor.
Under Department Order No.
248, Series of 2025 made public on Tuesday, employers of foreign nationals are required to implement the Understudy Training Program and Skills Development Program.
These initiatives aim to ensure that Filipino counterparts acquire the expertise needed to eventually take over roles currently held by
foreign workers.
“These structured training programs shall ensure the Filipino counterparts’ acquisition of expertise and competencies necessary to eventually assume the roles held by the foreign nationals, thereby fostering sustainable workforce development and reducing dependency on foreign labor in the long term,” DOLE said in a statement.
The revised guidelines also introduce an Economic Needs Test (ENT), which evaluates whether hiring foreign workers is necessary based on the availability of qualified local talent.
DOLE said the ENT is designed to address skills shortages in priority industries while protecting local employment opportunities.
Public consultations will also be held to align the policy with realworld labor market conditions.
In addition to these reforms, the labor department has streamlined the labor market test for AEP applications.
Employers are now required to publish job vacancies only once in a newspaper of general circulation, while job postings will also be integrated into PhilJobNet, the government’s official job-matching platform.
This is expected to make the application process more accessible and efficient.
DOLE said the new AEP guidelines are in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order No. 18, Series of 2023,
Congress asked to set aside bigger compensation for victims of wrongful conviction, detention
FBy Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
ILIPINOS w ho were wrongfully convicted or illegally detained may soon be eligible to receive higher monetary compensation under a bill being pushed by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III. Pimentel sponsored Senate Bill No. 2920 under Committee Report No. 438, which aims to strengthen support for individuals wrongly convicted or unjustly detained, by amending Republic Act No. 7309, the law that established the Board of Claims under the Department
of Justice.
The measure seeks justice for those unjustly accused, convicted, and imprisoned but later released through acquittal. It also covers individuals who were detained and released without being charged, those subjected to arbitrary or illegal detention and released without charges, and victims of violent crimes.
Pimentel noted that the Board of Claims, established under the Office of the Secretary of Justice in 1992, was created to implement the national government’s Victims’ Compensation Program. He emphasized that the time has
BFP told: Slash price of firetrucks by half
come to modernize and expand the scope of Republic Act No. 7309, in line with the principles of liberality, generosity and fairness.
“We live in a country where no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws,” the 1990 Bar Topnotcher added.
The proposed amendments include increasing ten-fold compensation for unjust imprisonment or detention from P1,000 to P10,000 per month and raising the maximum compensation for victims of violent crimes to P50,000 or more,
remove the restriction and allow companies to participate in the BFP bidding process as long as they can fulfil its supply requirement “at the best possible price, and at the same specifications.”
He said this will allow them to increase the number of suppliers from two to 10.
“The fire trucks that BFP used to buy cost P15 million each, now it was reduced to P8 million because we opened up the bidding [to more companies],” Remulla said.
advanced technologies.
From December 13, 2024 to January 16, 2025, the vehicle was monitored going around the National Capital Region and the general divisions of Luzon, conducting detailed scouting, collating comprehensive images of the terrains and structures and the overall topography of the potential targets, without consent and authority from the Philippine Government.
Deng and his two Filipino cohorts were arrested on January 17 by authorities after their vehicle was spotted within the vicinity of Palm Tower, Makati City.
department decided to
which seeks to improve the ease of doing business to attract foreign investments.
However, it also emphasized that there must be a balance between economic growth and local workforce protection.
“This is to ensure that foreign workers contribute to priority sectors, align with national development goals, and respect the rights of Filipino workers,” the department said.
From 2022 to 2024, DOLE issued over 192,000 AEPs to foreign nationals.
The highest number of permits was issued to Chinese workers, totaling 73,518, followed by Vietnamese nationals, who received 43,580 permits.
depending on incurred expenses.
To make the process more accessible, the bill proposes extending the filing period for claims from six months to one year after release or the date of injury. It also seeks to modernize the system by allowing remote claim submissions, subject to regulations to be outlined by the Board of Claims.
“More than ever, the Filipino people must be reminded that we are a country of laws and not of men. We are neither a kingdom ruled by a tyrannical monarch, nor a penal colony that ignores the humanity of those under our custody,” Pimentel said in sponsoring the measure. Pimentel III like his father the late Senate President Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel Jr., is a constitutional law expert and human rights advocate.
Aside from the bidding reforms, Remulla said BFP will also be deploying ambulances with its fire trucks to respond to the medical needs of fire victims and fire fighters
“BFP has 5,000 nurses. So, we will utilize that capacity... when a fire truck arrives, it will be accompanied by an ambulance. This is currently not the standard practice,” Remulla said.
He reported these developments to President Marcos during their meeting last Tuesday. Samuel P. Medenilla
Authorities said they discovered sophisticated equipment that can produce 3D images of a target structure and has a navigation satellite system being used for guided missiles and could transmit data real time when they inspected the vehicle.
The three are facing charges for violations of Section 1 (a) and 2 (a) of Commonwealth Act No. 616 (An Act to Punish Espionage and Other Offenses Against National Security) in relation to Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 for obtaining critical information affecting national defense without proper authority or necessary permits from any concerned government agencies.
PHL, Malaysia strengthen education ties, eyeing scholarship opportunities for Filipino students
By Claudeth S. Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
THE Department of Education (DepEd) is exploring Malaysian scholarship opportunities for Filipinos after Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara met recently with Malaysian Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino.
Angara and the Malaysian Ambassador, who was accompanied by his delegation, discussed on strengthening education ties.
The meeting focused on advancing bilateral initiatives, including enhancements to the Philippines’ Madrasah Education Program, workforce development through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and new opportunities for Filipino students through potential Malaysian scholarship programs.
The proposed Malaysian scholarship programs were identified as key to expanding access to higher education for Filipinos and fostering regional cooperation, sustainable peace and economic growth.
“Malaysia has long been a valued partner in education, and today we continue to build on our shared history to empower our learners and communities,” An-
gara said.
The discussion also highlighted Malaysia’s expertise in Islamic education, with Angara noting its vital role in improving the Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) program, which supports learners in both public schools and private Madaris schools across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Likewise, the meeting also covered potential areas for expanding workforce development initiatives. Following discussions between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Ahmad Zahid Bin Hamidi in October 2024, both countries committed to strengthening TVET programs to better prepare Filipino graduates for global opportunities. Angara also expressed enthusiasm for revisiting the 2014 Memorandum of Understanding on Education Cooperation, which was renewed in 2019, to align with emerging priorities. This includes integrating industry-focused initiatives such as the development of the Halal sector and strengthening regional collaboration.
“We will explore new opportunities that will benefit not only our learners but also the broader ASEAN community,” Angara said.
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China seeks to strengthen ties with US allies amidst Trump’s return to power
By Ken Moritsugu & Didi Tang
The Associated Press
EIJING—China’s relations are start -
Bing to improve with Japan, India and other countries that former US President Joe Biden courted, just as Donald Trump brings his more unilateralist approach back to the White House.
The change of leadership in Washington on Monday could be an opportunity for China, which has long railed against Biden’s strategy of building partnerships with “likeminded countries” aimed at countering its growing influence.
Biden reinvigorated a grouping known as the Quad—the United States, India, Japan and Australia. China’s relations with all three of those US partners are improving, as are its ties with Britain. The durability
of Biden’s legacy is now in question. During his first term, Trump didn’t hesitate to challenge traditional US partners.
“It is possible that Trump may drift away from US allies, making them pay more attention to China’s role and in fact it has provided a chance for China’s diplomacy,” said Wu Xinbo, dean of the Institute of International Studies at Fudan University in Shanghai. “I think we should grasp the chance.”
But US National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes said that Trump “has a record of rallying the world toward a more competitive stance with China.” Trump agreed to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy that Japan introduced during his first term and backed excluding Chinese companies from telecom networks in the US and many of its partners.
will remain a priority for Trump.
China’s fence-mending has limits Beijing’s rapprochement with the UKand Japan is in its early stages, and major differences remain that limit and could derail it.
India turned the page with China on a bitter border dispute last October, but protested when Beijing created two new counties in an area claimed by both nations.
CHINESE President Xi Jinping takes part in the Economic Leaders Meeting during the APEC summit in Lima, Peru on November 16, 2024. SEAN KILPATRICK /THE CANADIAN
And on Tuesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio—hours after he was sworn in—met with the foreign ministers of
Australia, India and Japan in Washington, a move that suggested engaging the Quad countries and countering China’s influence
Still, new leaders in Australia, the UKand Japan have shown a desire to warm relations with China, the world’s largest manufacturer and a source of strategic minerals. The government in Beijing has reciprocated in part because it wants foreign investment to help revive its economy, which could be set back if Trump follows through on a threat to impose higher tariffs.
Chinese President Xi Jinping told European Council President Antonio Costa
in a phone conversation last week that both sides could bring more “stability and certainty” to the turbulent global situation. China and Britain restarted economic and financial talks after a six-year hiatus when the UKTreasury chief visited Beijing this month.
“From China’s point of view, improving relations with American allies and increasing economic cooperation will offset the shock to China-US economic relations,” Wu said.
Trump’s statements agitate US allies IN Washington, there’s a strong bipartisan consensus that the US must prevail in its economic and tech rivalry with China to maintain its global leadership.
See “China,” A11
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Top Israeli general resigns over security failures linked to deadly Hamas attack
By Melanie Lidman & Aref Tufaha The Associated Press
JERUSALEM—Israel’s top general resigned Tuesday, taking responsibility for security failures tied to Hamas’ surprise attack that triggered the war in Gaza and adding to pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has delayed any public inquiry that could potentially implicate his leadership.
While a fragile new ceasefire in the Gaza Strip held, Israel launched a “significant and broad” military operation in the occupied West Bank, killing at least nine people and injuring 40, Palestinian officials said.
Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi is the most senior Israeli figure to resign over the security and intelligence breakdown on October 7, 2023, when thousands of Hamasled militants carried out a land, sea and air assault into southern Israel, rampaging through army bases and nearby communities.
The attack—the single deadliest on Israel in its history—killed
some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the militants abducted another 250. More than 90 captives are still in Gaza, around a third believed to be dead.
Halevi’s resignation, effective March 6, came days into the ceasefire with Hamas that could lead to an end to the 15-month war and the return of remaining captives.
Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, head of Israel’s Southern Command, which oversees operations in Gaza, also resigned.
Their resignations will likely add to calls for a public inquiry into the October 7 failures, something Netanyahu has said must
‘Once in a lifetime’ snow hits parts of the US South
By Isabella O’malley The Associated Press
AWINTER storm sweeping through the US South on Tuesday was dumping snow at levels millions of residents haven’t seen before.
Moisture from the Gulf of Mexico was combining with a low-pressure system and chilly air to drop significant amounts of snow in some spots. That included 10.5 inches near Lafayette, Louisiana by Tuesday afternoon—within striking distance of the state record of 13 inches set in 1960.
The National Weather Service said 7 to 8 inches of snow had been reported in areas between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. New Orleans’ old record was 2.7 inches set in 1963. In Texas, the Houston-Galveston area had 2 to 4 inches before midday.
The National Weather Service’s Lake Charles, Louisiana, office issued its firstever blizzard warning Tuesday. The NWS’ Mobile office reposted video on X of two people having a snowball fight in Orange Beach, Alabama, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime event for a lot of these folks down there. For kids that have never had snowball fights … they’re going to have one,” said Tom Kines, a meteorologist at the private weather company AccuWeather.
The US Gulf Coast is far better known for its hurricanes—Houston, for example, was
During his confirmation hearing, Rubio called China “the most potent and dangerous near-peer adversary this nation has ever confronted.” Biden kept the tariffs Trump levied on China and imposed more on Chinese electric cars and solar cells.
But unlike Biden, Trump has irked US allies and partners with his recent remarks on possibly annexing Greenland, an autonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark, and making Canada the 51st American state. Hal Brands, senior fellow at the Washington-based think tank American Enterprise
rocked by Hurricane Beryl in July—and it’s a “fairly rare phenomenon” to see snow in the region, said Bradley Brokamp, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Houston. That’s a combination seen a little more often in the Northeast, which gets snowy winters and the occasional tropical storm.
In Houston, the Yale Street Grill was virtually the only business open in one inner-city neighborhood. A couple of the restaurant’s workers had time to venture outside and build a 3-foot tall snowman complete with carrot nose and scarf.
“I’ve seen all the storms. I’ve been through all the hurricanes. So, this has been really fun. I have a 4-year-old daughter at home who I’m ready to get back to so she can play in the snow,” said Emma Kratky, a waitress and assistant manager.
It appeared Florida had broken its state snowfall record of 4 inches, set in Milton on March 6, 1954. The National Weather Service’s Mobile office said Pensacola had gotten 5 inches.
That office also said Mobile’s airport had gotten 6.2 inches, surpassing the old record of 5 inches set Jan. 24, 1881. Even the double-digit snowfall near Lafayette was well short of the Valentine’s Day snowstorm that struck parts of the Gulf Coast in 1895. That storm dumped 19 inches on Houston and 15.4 on Galveston.
The Associated Press reporter Kristie Rieken contributed from Houston.
Institute, said he believes some top strategists in Beijing are “salivating at the damage they think Trump is going to do to US alliances and the opportunities this creates for Beijing to resurrect some of its relationships with other advanced democracies—Japan and Europe—that had moved in a very sharply anti-China direction since Covid.” Trump’s rhetoric, and attempts by his adviser Elon Musk to interfere in British and German politics, “are certain to have a ripple effect,” said Sun Yun, director of the China program at the Stimson Center in Washington. “Countries want to at the minimum keep their options open,” she said. “China is unlikely to be a better choice than the US, even under Trump, but it is important
wait until the war is over. Halevi’s resignation letter noted that the military’s investigations into those failures were “currently in their final stages.”
And Halevi made his most explicit call yet for a public inquiry in comments to journalists, saying it would be “granted full transparency” by the military.
Halevi had appeared to be at odds with Israel’s new defense minister, Israel Katz, over the direction of the war. He said Israel had accomplished most of its goals, while Katz echoed Netanyahu’s vow to keep fighting until “total victory” over Hamas. Katz replaced the popular Yoav Gallant, who Netanyahu dismissed in a surprise announcement in November after growing disagreements over the war.
Another major operation in the West Bank
THE ceasefire that started Sunday does not apply to the West Bank, where Israel announced new operation against Palestinian militants in Jenin. The city has seen repeated Israeli incursions and gunbattles with militants in recent years.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on security forces to use “maximum restraint” in the West Bank, a spokesman said.
Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the
1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek an independent state encompassing all three territories.
The West Bank has seen a surge of violence during the war in Gaza. Israeli troops have carried out near-daily raids that often ignite gunbattles. There has also been a rise in attacks on Palestinians by Jewish extremists—including a rampage in two Palestinian villages overnight Monday—and Palestinian attacks on Israelis.
Hamas condemned the Israeli operation in Jenin, calling on Palestinians in the West Bank to step up attacks. The smaller and more radical Islamic Jihad militant group called it a “desperate attempt” by Netanyahu to save his governing coalition.
Netanyahu faces domestic criticism over ceasefire N ETANYAHU faces criticism from far-right allies over the ceasefire, which requires Israeli troops to pull back from populated areas in Gaza and envisions the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including militants convicted of involvement in deadly attacks on Israelis.
Hamas has already returned to the streets, showing that it remains in control of the territory despite the war killing tens of thousands of Palestinians—including some Hamas leaders—and causing widespread devastation.
The ceasefire’s first phase is to last for six weeks, with 33 hostages gradually released. Three hostages and 90 prisoners were released Sunday, when it took effect. The next release is Saturday. Talks on the far more difficult second phase begin in two weeks.
One of Netanyahu’s erstwhile partners, Itamar Ben-Gvir, quit the government on Sunday, weakening the coalition but still leaving Netanyahu with a parliamentary majority. Another far-right leader, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, has threatened to leave if Israel does not resume the war after the ceasefire’s first phase.
Separately on Tuesday evening, Israel’s emergency rescue service said four people were stabbed and wounded in Tel Aviv in what police described as a terror attack. Police said the attacker, a 28-year old “foreign national,” was killed by security forces at the scene.
New bodies found in Gaza WITH the calm of the ceasefire, emergency responders looked through rubble for bodies they had been unable to reach before.
“We retrieved 120 decomposed bodies over the past two days,” civil defense worker Haitham Hams told The Associated Press in the southern city of Rafah, as colleagues unearthed a thigh bone and a pair of pants.
Israel’s military campaign has
killed over 47,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health authorities, who say women and children make up more than half of the fatalities but do not say how many of the dead were fighters. Halevi on Tuesday said close to 20,000 militants had been killed, without providing evidence.
Gaza’s Health Ministry said 72 bodies had been taken to hospitals in the past 24 hours, almost all of them recovered from attacks before the ceasefire. An unknown number of bodies remain unreachable because they are in northern Gaza, where access remains restricted, or in buffer zones where Israeli forces are.
Nearly 900 trucks of aid entered Gaza on the third day of the ceasefire Tuesday, the United Nations said—significantly higher than the 600 trucks called for in the deal—in a rush to supply food, medicines and other needs it has described as “staggering” for the population of over 2 million people.
“Most importantly, we want things that will warm us in winter,” one of the many displaced Palestinians, Mounir Abu Seiam, said Tuesday as people gathered in the southern city of Khan Younis to receive food.
Tufaha reported from Jenin, West Bank. Associated Press writer Natalie Melzer in Nahariya, Israel, contributed to this report.
Gaza’s massive destruction: Assessing the aftermath of the Israel-Hamas war
By Abdel Kareem Hana & Tia Goldenberg
The Associated Press
RAFAH, Gaza Strip—Palestinians in Gaza are confronting an apocalyptic landscape of devastation after a ceasefire paused more than 15 months of fighting between Israel and Hamas.
Across the tiny coastal enclave, where built-up refugee camps are interspersed between cities, drone footage captured by The Associated Press shows mounds of rubble stretching as far as the eye can see—remnants of the longest and deadliest war between Israel and Hamas in their blood-ridden history.
“As you can see, it became a ghost town,” said Hussein Barakat, 38, whose home in the southern city of Rafah was flattened. “There is nothing,” he said, as he sat drinking coffee on a brown armchair perched on the rubble of his three-story home, in a surreal scene.
Critics say Israel has waged a campaign of scorched earth to destroy the fabric of life in Gaza, accusations that are being considered in two global courts, including the crime of genocide. Israel denies those charges and says its military has been fighting a complex battle in dense urban areas and that it tries to avoid causing undue harm to civilians and their infrastructure.
Military experts say the reality is
to find some counterbalance.”
The Philippines isn’t mending fences
CHINA’S relations aren’t improving with every US partner. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has aggressively resisted China’s increasingly assertive stance in their territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
The Philippines complained recently about what it called a “monster” Chinese coast guard ship in nearby waters, and the foreign ministers of Japan and the Philippines said last week they would convey to Trump the urgent need for the US to remain engaged in the region.
Uncertainty about Trump’s policies is
complicated.
“For a campaign of this duration, which is a year’s worth of fighting in a heavily urban environment where you have an adversary that is hiding in amongst that environment, then you would expect an extremely high level of damage,” said Matthew Savill, director of military sciences at the Royal United Services Institute, a British think-tank.
Savill said that it was difficult to draw a broad conclusion about the nature of Israel’s campaign. To do so, he said, would require each strike and operation to be assessed to determine whether they adhered to the laws of armed conflict and whether all were proportional, but he did not think the scorched earth description was accurate.
International rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, view the vast destruction as part of a broader pattern of extermination and genocide directed at Palestinians in Gaza, a charge Israel denies. The groups dispute Israel’s stance that the destruction was a result of military activity.
Human Rights Watch, in a November report accusing Israel of crimes against humanity, said “the destruction is so substantial that it indicates the intention to permanently displace many people.”
From a fierce air campaign during the first weeks of the war, to a ground invasion
prompting both China and Japan to seek a stable relationship, said Taizo Miyagi, an expert on Japanese diplomacy at Chuo University in Tokyo.
A Japanese foreign minister visited Beijing last month for the first time in seven years, and Chinese military officials visited Tokyo last week to resume defense exchanges after a five-year hiatus.
“In a way it is a Trump effect,” Miyagi said. “Many other countries are likely thinking the same and this could invigorate their diplomatic activities.”
Britain steers a new course with China
BRITISH Prime Minister Keir Starmer
that sent thousands of troops in on tanks, the Israeli response to a Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, has ground down much of the civilian infrastructure of the Gaza Strip, displacing 90 percent of its population. The brilliant color of pre-war life has faded into a monotone cement gray that dominates the territory. It could take decades, if not more, to rebuild.
A UN assessment from satellite imagery showed more than 60,000 structures across Gaza had been destroyed and more than 20,000 severely damaged in the war as of Dec. 1, 2024. The preliminary assessment of conflict-generated debris, including of buildings and roads, was over 50 million tons. It said the analysis had not yet been validated in the field.
Airstrikes throughout the war toppled buildings and other structures said to be housing militants. But the destruction intensified with the ground forces, who fought Hamas fighters in close combat in dense areas.
If militants were seen firing from an apartment building near a troop maneuver, forces might take the entire building down to thwart the threat. Tank tracks chewed up paved roads, leaving dusty stretches of earth in their wake.
The military’s engineering corps was tasked with using bulldozers to clear routes, downing buildings seen as threats, and blowing up Hamas’ underground tunnel network.
has sought to rebuild ties with Beijing since his Labour Party’s election victory last summer. It’s a marked shift from predecessor Rishi Sunak, who in 2022 declared an end to his country’s “golden era” of friendship with China.
Experts say the operations to neutralize tunnels were extremely destructive to surface infrastructure. For example, if a 1.5-kilometer (1-mile) long tunnel was blown up by Israeli forces, it would not spare homes or buildings above, said Michael Milshtein, a former Israeli army intelligence officer.
“If (the tunnel) passes under an urban area, it all gets destroyed,” he said. “There’s no other way to destroy a tunnel.” Cemeteries, schools, hospitals and more were targeted and destroyed, he said, because Hamas was using these for military purposes. Secondary blasts from Hamas explosives inside these buildings could worsen the damage.
The way Israel has repeatedly returned to areas it said were under its control, only to have militants overrun it again, has exacerbated the destruction, Savill said.
That’s evident especially in northern Gaza, where Israel launched a new campaign in early October that almost obliterated Jabaliya, a built up, urban refugee camp. Jabaliya is home to the descendants of Palestinians who fled, or were forced to flee, during the war that led to Israel’s creation in 1948. Milshtein said Israel’s dismantling of the tunnel network is also to blame for the destruction there.
Goldenberg reported from Tel Aviv, Israel.
In Britain’s case, Trump’s return may not be driving the rapprochement. Many European leaders may not welcome Trump’s America-first agenda, “but the idea that as a result they will all kowtow to Beijing for more trade is fanciful thinking on the part of some of our Chinese friends,” said Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute at the University of London. Most would prefer to remain partners with Washington. French President Emmanuel Macron, outlining his vision for global diplomacy in a New Year’s speech, declared that his country
Trump finds new ways to flex presidential power after returning to the White House
By Chris Megerian & Lisa Mascaro The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—President
Donald Trump is swiftly breaching the traditional boundaries of presidential power as he returns to the White House, bringing to bear a lifetime of bending the limits in courthouses, boardrooms and politics to forge an expansive view of his authority.
He’s already unleashed an unprecedented wave of executive orders, daring anyone to stop him, with actions intended to clamp down on border crossings, limit the constitutional guarantee of birthright citizenship and keep the popular Chinese-owned TikTok operational despite a law shutting down the social media platform.
Democrats and civil rights organizations are rallying to fight Trump in court, but legal battles could drag on before slowing the president down. Meanwhile, Trump is drafting a new blueprint for the presidency, one that demonstrates the primacy of blunt force in a democratic system predicated on checks and balances between the branches of government.
“He’s going to push it to the max,” said Sen. Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama. Trump tried to take a similar
approach in his first term, with mixed results. This time, there are fewer guardrails. His administration has few of the establishment figures that once tried to curb his penchant for upheaval. The US Supreme Court is stocked with conservative justices, and recently decreed that presidents are broadly immune from prosecution for any official actions taken during their term. Republicans are in complete control on Capitol Hill, where the leaders owe their majority positions to Trump’s support or acquiescence.
In a striking display of Trump’s dominance, almost no one from his party challenged the decision to pardon almost everyone charged in connection with the January 6, 2021, riot at the US Capitol.
“We’re not looking backwards, we’re looking forward,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota.
It’s the kind of scenario that Democrats warned about during last year’s campaign, when they claimed that Trump would govern as a dictator if elected to another term.
Sitting in the Oval Office just hours after being inaugurated on Monday, Trump rejected the characterization.
“No, no,” he said, shaking his head and pursing his lips. “I can’t imagine even being called that.”
Then he continued scrawling his signature on executive orders that were laid out across the Resolute Desk.
Trump’s blitz didn’t surprise Barbara Res, who worked for the future president years ago at his namesake company.
“Politics is about compromise. Business is all about leverage,” Res said. “He’s not a compromiser.”
Although Trump got his start in the brick-and-mortar field of real estate, he appears to be taking a page from the “move fast and break things” tactic of technology company executives who spent millions bolstering his presidential bid and attended his inauguration.
John Yoo, a law professor at the University of California at Berkeley who helped expand presidential authority while working for George W. Bush, said Trump’s executive orders were “unprecedented in terms of the sweeping scope of the orders and in the sheer number.”
Although such orders can be easily reversed by a future president, they could have a profound impact for now.
Yoo described as “legally shaky” Trump’s effort to allow TikTok to keep operating even though US
officials have described it as a national security threat because of fears that China could access user data or manipulate the content algorithm. A law signed by President Joe Biden required the platform to shut down in the United States unless its Chinese parent company found a new owner by Sunday, the day before Trump took office.
But Trump directed his Justice Department not to enforce the ban, which Yoo compared to a student asking for more time on an exam after it was due.
Yoo also said Trump is trying to “really push the envelope” by declaring that migrants who are entering the country constitute an “invasion.” The president directed the military to help take “operational control” of the US border, but troops are not allowed to handle law enforcement, whether it’s seizing drugs or arresting migrants.
“This is without historical parallel,” Yoo said. “This is really an extraordinary claim of presidential power.”
Sheinbaum calls for ‘cool head’ as Trump sends peso
By Maya Averbuch, Maria Elena Vizcaino & Carolina Wilson
RESIDENT Claudia Shein -
Pbaum called for cool heads to prevail after Donald Trump’s vow to impose hefty tariffs sent the country’s currency tumbling on fears that Mexico will become a target of his administration.
On his first day in the White House, Trump renewed his pledge to slap 25 percent tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods, saying he may do so as soon as Feb. 1 if the countries don’t move to clamp down on migration and drugs. He also signed a raft of orders on immigration, declared an emergency on the southern border and pledged to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
Sheinbaum responded on Tuesday as the aggressive day-one moves from Washington caused the peso to weaken as much as 1.4 percent. It later trimmed losses to around 0.6 percent, still by far the worst performer in emerging markets.
She warned the Trump administration against interventions in her nation’s territory and pledged support for Mexican citizens who may face deportation. Sheinbaum avoided a direct rebuke of the proposed tariffs, saying only that the decree Trump signed includes preparation for the 2026 review of the North American free trade agreement known as the USMCA.
“It’s important to always keep a cool head and refer to the signed
orders beyond the actual rhetoric,” she said at her daily morning news conference. “That’s what counts before the law, strictly speaking.”
Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau struck a similar note, saying that Trump is trying to weaken the negotiating position of his trading partners by creating uncertainty. The Canadian dollar hit its weakest level in nearly five years following Trump’s remarks, falling as much as 1.4 percent in Asia trading before recovering most of the losses.
“We know that there is always going to be a certain amount of unpredictability and rhetoric coming out from this administration,” Trudeau told reporters, adding that Canada doesn’t want a tariff war but is ready to retaliate if necessary.
Investors have for months attempted to forecast how much of Trump’s campaign rhetoric would become policy, while trying to position themselves for the impact of tariffs. The peso, one of the most heavily-traded emerging-market currencies, lost 18.5 percent against the greenback last year, and now trades around the lowest level since mid-2022 at 20.6 per dollar.
Sheinbaum has sought to avoid tariffs on all Mexican goods, which could jeopardize nearly $800 billion in annual trade between Mexico and the US and call into question protections of the USMCA agreement, which Trump signed in 2020.
Her government has cracked down on cheap Chinese imports
in a bid to appease the new US leader before he took office. But the revival of tariff threats sent a strong signal that Mexico remains particularly vulnerable to Trump, who held off on new China-specific trade levies on Monday.
“It’s a lot easier for the Trump administration to pick on Mexico than China,” said Jack McIntyre, a money manager at Brandywine Global Investment Management. “It’s part of Trump’s love for weaponizing uncertainty.”
Trump has also said previously that he is considering asking for a renegotiation of the USMCA. Still, there is deep uncertainty among analysts about whether he will follow through on pledges to impose the tariffs by the start of next month or other plans that could affect Mexico.
“Right now it’s a little speculative as to what is actually going to happen,” said Greg Lesko, a money manager with Deltec Asset Management in New York. “I would lean toward the view that there’s no serious damage here and that the weakness is short-lived as likely the 25 percent is a negotiating position.”
Sheinbaum, who has spoken with Trump twice by phone and pledged to seek strong relations with him, reiterated Tuesday that the Mexican government wanted to avoid a direct confrontation with the US. She added that she was waiting for Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to begin formal talks between the two nations.
tumbling
Migration and cartels
SHEINBAUM downplayed Trump’s migration orders, saying the text of the decree is similar to the actions he took during his first term as president.
Mexico will act in a humanitarian manner but also seek to repatriate foreigners to their countries of origin if the US removes them, she said. “Remain in Mexico,” the program Trump’s government said it would reinstate, required migrants to wait for their US immigration court cases in Mexican territory.
Mexico also outlined its strategy for the deportation of its own citizens from the US, with Interior Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez stating that it would provide hundreds of buses to transport them from the border to Mexican help centers and their states of origin. De la Fuente emphasized a series of options for those detained, including an app with a panic button and access to support at consulates in the US.
Sheinbaum said that the US could take actions it deems necessary against Mexican drug cartels in its own territory, but not within Mexico.
Analysts have said an aggressive interpretation of the law could make companies vulnerable to charges of offering material support to terrorists. It could also pave the way for US military action into Mexico, an idea Trump floated prior to starting his second term. With assistance from Alex Vasquez, Michael O’Boyle, Vinícius Andrade and Derek Decloet/Bloomberg
Nearly two-dozen states have already sued Trump over his executive order intended to limit birthright citizenship, part of his sweeping effort to curb immigration. The president’s opponents said the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution requires that people born in the US are citizens, including people whose parents were not legally citizens at the time of their birth.
“Presidents have broad power but they are not kings,” said New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, a Democrat.
Depending on how the legal battles play out, Yoo said Trump could set a new standard for his successors.
“If he’s successful with even half the executive orders, every future president is going to want to do the same thing,” he said.
It’s not unusual for presidents to test the limits of presidential authority, said Julian Zelizer, a Princeton University historian.
For example, Biden tried to expand the cancellation of federal student
loans, only to see his proposal blocked by the US Supreme Court.
“But as with most things,” Zelizer said, “Trump goes further than the rest to see just how far he can go.”
Res recalled a similar approach at the Trump Organization, where Trump prided himself on his ability to chisel down contractor costs or lean on local officials for favorable treatment for his properties.
“No matter what you gave him or offered him, he wanted more,” she said.
Res said Trump would keep in his desk a black-and-white picture of Roy Cohn, an attorney renowned for his ruthlessness.
“He would pull that out when he was arguing with a contractor,” she said. “’Here’s my lawyer, sue me.’” Trump’s ongoing challenge will be keeping Republicans in line on Capitol Hill, and some have suggested they’re still willing to cross him.
Sen. Susan Collins, a Maine Republican known for an independent streak, said she supports some of Trump’s executive orders but “others I have real questions about.”
Sen. Adam Schiff, a Democrat from California who has been a political nemesis of Trump, said Trump’s actions run the gamut “from the plainly unconstitutional—as in the attempt to end birthright citizenship—to the draconian, with mass deportations.” Others, he said, like the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, are just “absurd.”
Asked if Congress would stand up to the new White House, Schiff said he wasn’t sure.
“We’re about to find out,” he said.
Putin and Xi pledge closer ties as Trump takes office, discuss potential US relations
By Vladimir Isachenkov The Associated Press
MOSCOW—Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke Tuesday with Chinese President Xi Jinping and emphasized their close ties a day after Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th US president.
The two leaders discussed their prospective contacts with Trump’s administration during the video call that lasted more than 1 1/2 hours, the Kremlin said.
They have developed strong, personal links that brought their relations even closer after Putin sent troops into Ukraine in 2022. China has become a major customer for Russian oil and gas and a source of key technologies amid sweeping Western sanctions on Moscow.
In the call with Xi, Putin emphasized that Russia-China relations are based on shared interests, equality and mutual benefits, noting they “don’t depend on internal political factors and the current international environment.”
“We jointly support the development of a more just, multipolar global order, and work to ensure indivisible security in Eurasia and the world as a whole,” Putin told Xi in remarks carried by Russian state TV.
“Joint efforts by Russia and China play an important stabilizing role in global affairs.”
Xi similarly praised their close cooperation, expressing his readiness to work together with Putin to “lead China-Russia relations to a higher level, to cope with the uncertainty of the external environment with the stability and resilience of China-Russia relations,” and to “safeguard international fairness and justice.”
He emphasized that Russia and China should “continue to deepen strategic co -
operation, firmly support each other, and safeguard the legitimate interests of the two countries.”
While neither leader directly mentioned Trump in the televised fragment of their call, the Kremlin said they touched upon prospective contacts with the new US administration.
The Chinese president spoke by phone Friday with Trump and expressed hope for positive ties with the US.
Trump had threatened to impose tariffs and other measures against China in his second term, while also hinting at ways in which the two rival powers could cooperate on issues such as regional conflicts and curbing the export of substances used in the production of fentanyl.
Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters the Putin-Xi call had been planned in advance and wasn’t specifically linked to Trump’s inauguration.
But he noted that Xi briefed Putin about it. Putin and Xi discussed “certain issues related to possible contacts with the US administration,” Ushakov added Putin and Xi expressed readiness to develop ties with Washington on the basis of mutual benefit and respect if Trump’s team shows interest in that, he said.
Putin, who has yet to talk to Trump, congratulated him on taking office in televised remarks during a video call with officials and welcomed his intention to open a dialogue with Moscow.
Trump told reporters Monday after taking office that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had told him he wanted to make a peace deal and voiced hope that Putin would follow suit. He added that Putin would be destroying Russia by failing to make a deal, pointing out Russia’s economic troubles, including high inflation.
PRESIDENT Donald Trump signs an executive order as he attends an indoor Presidential Inauguration parade event at Capital One Arena, Monday, January 20, 2025, in Washington. AP/EVAN VUCCI
Govt readies program to prop up sugar prices
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Sugar Regulatory Ad -
ministration (SRA) may issue a sugar order for the second round of its voluntary purchase program, which aims to boost the domestic price of the sweetener, by the end of January.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said the agency is now finalizing the SO for the program which involves the purchase of raw sugar at a premium.
The government previously allowed the purchase of 300,000 MT of raw sugar last year.
“Hopefully in a week or two [the order will be finalized],” Azcona told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday.
The SRA chief, however, said the government is still determining the volume of raw sugar that it will allow for the second round.
Under the draft SO 2, a copy of which was obtained by reporters,
the SRA said it deemed it necessary to adopt another round of its voluntary purchase program “to maintain an optimum supply of sugar available for domestic consumption while ensuring reasonable and stable prices.”
Meanwhile, the agency said the raw sugar purchased by eligible participants would be temporarily classified as “C” (reserved sugar).
In return for purchasing raw sugar at a premium on a firstcome-first-served basis, eligible participants would be prioritized in the government’s future import programs.
This would be done based on the raw sugar volume purchased by traders, at a ratio of 2 (locally produced raw sugar purchased): 1 (imported sugar).
Azcona had floated the idea of implementing another round of the program as part of efforts to arrest the slide in millgate prices of the commodity.
“We’re studying what we did
REGULATING THE AGRICULTURE PROFESSION Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri accepts individual amendments to Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2906 under Committee Report No. 435 or An Act Regulating the Practice of the Agriculture Profession in the Philippines, Creating for the Purpose a Professional Regulatory Board for Agriculturists. Zubiri said the amendments were introduced by Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, who described the measure as a “happy bill.” SBN 2906 seeks to put at par the agriculture profession with other professions such as accounting, engineering, food technology, and forestry, by regulating the practice of the agriculture profession, thereby ensuring the continuing professional development of agriculture workers. Principally authored by Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., SBN 2906 was passed on second reading Tuesday, January 21, 2025. SENATE PUBLIC RELATIONS AND INFORMATION BUREAU
Indonesia pressures commodity firms with earnings rule
INDONESIA plans to force commodity firms to keep their export earnings onshore for at least a year, tightening an existing requirement for a sector already facing mounting regulatory uncertainty.
The policy, due to take effect on March 1, is aimed at bolstering Indonesia’s foreignexchange reserves and supporting the rupiah. Exporters, however, have complained it will impact their ability to manage cash flow and force them to take out larger loans to finance everyday expenses. Currently, exporters are required to keep 30 percent of proceeds in Indonesia for at least three months.
“A sudden move could shock businesses and impact their cash flow,” said David Sumual, chief economist at Bank Central Asia. “If they’re unprepared, it will be challenging.”
The Indonesian rupiah has been under pressure from a resurgent dollar, weakening more than 7 percent since the end of September despite multiple interventions by the central bank. Bank Indonesia’s surprise interest rate cut last week added to the country’s predicament.
But the new rule comes as Indonesia’s natural resources sector, the cornerstone of its economy, faces other sudden shifts in policy under recently inaugurated President Prabowo Subianto. The country is weighing cuts to nickel mining quotas to boost prices, Bloomberg reported last year, potentially worsening global shortages.
Indonesia’s biggest copper mine, owned by Freeport McMoran Inc. and a state-owned partner, is currently unable to ship its output overseas as ministers prevaricate over whether or not to temporarily relax a ban on exports.
While the new government had already signaled its intent to extend the foreignexchange lock-up, the scale of the changes has taken exporters by surprise. It marks a shift in approach from the more measured policy
last year and finding ways to improve it. [We want to] make sure that anybody can participate in the program as long as they have a domestic trading license,” he told reporters in a previous interview.
He said the program would “make the playing field a lot more level and fair.”
The prevailing prices of sugar ranged from P75 to P83 per kilo, based on the latest government price monitoring report.
Accessible credit
Meanwhile, the SRA said sugarcane farmers stand to gain from expedited loan approval under the streamlined process of its credit program.
The SRA, together with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the LandBank of the Philippines signed last month the revised implementing rules and regulations of the Sugar Industry Development Act’s (SIDA) Socialized
Credit Program (SCP).
Azcona said farmers, particularly those from remote areas, would now be given the opportunity to access credit.
“As a farmer myself, I know that when we need something, we need it immediately. We cannot afford to wait months as we’ve experienced in the past where help arrives late,” he said in a statement.
The revised guidelines cover the inclusion of credit conduits within its program coverage, reorganization of the program fund into trusts, and expansion of general obligations, policies, and guidelines.
For credit conduits, a basic lending policy within the IRR was created for its credentials and functions. Following SRA and LandBank accreditation, planters associations may lend credit at an interest rate not exceeding 6 percent to accommodate operational expenses.
The waiving of credit investigation and background information
(CI/BI) was also revised, which changed the standard of investigation from loan amounts to land area. Individual sugarcane farmers and block farm members with a maximum of five hectares would now be waived from CI/BI.
Other financial revisions of basic lending policies, such as the frequency of reporting and lower interest rates for common service centers, have also been approved to improve the process for beneficiaries.
The new guidelines also include individual block farm members, extending the newly expedited process to new beneficiaries and accommodating other production costs that may not be covered by the starting capital extended through the agency’s block farming program.
“The revised IRR opens the credit window to individual sugar farmers, block farms, credit conduits, common service centers, and women organizations engaged
with the sugarcane farming,” Senator Cynthia Villar said. She added that this would provide stakeholders’ access to financing that would allow them to improve productivity.
For SRA Board Member Ma. Mitzi Mangwang, who also chairs the SCP, stories from sugarcane farmers serve as a “nudge of their part in helping planters’ livelihood.”
“The stories of our beneficiaries are our motivation. They remind us of the critical role we play in supporting their livelihoods and ensuring the future of the sugarcane industry and the signing of the revised IRR is a significant step forward,” Mangwang said.
SRA said the revised SCP would be presented in a convention this year to orient mill districts and other stakeholders to the new policies.
It added that a roadshow within sugar regions would also be implemented to improve transparency and services.
US FDA removes coconut from food allergen list–PCA
THE exclusion of coconut as a major food allergen eases trade barriers for coconutbased products in the US market, according to the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).
This, after the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed coconut from the list of tree nuts under its revised allergen labeling guidance. Tree nuts are classified by the federal agency as a major food allergen.
According to the agency, the FDA’s decision impacts allergen labeling under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA), “which previously had a broad and sometimes contested interpretation of ‘tree nut.’”
“Coconut’s exclusion as a tree
nut alleviates significant trade challenges for coconut-based products in the US market,” the PCA said in a statement.
The agency noted that consumers and the coconut industry stand to benefit from this move.
“For consumers, this means fewer misleading allergen labels on coconut products. While individuals allergic to tree nuts often assume they must avoid coconuts, the FDA’s clarification sets the record straight,” it said.
Furthermore, the agency said this marked the lifting of a ‘labeling stigma’ that has long hindered the market potential of coconut-based products for the industry.
“Brands and manufacturers
can now market coconut items without the burden of misclassification that has long stifled consumer confidence and international trade, potentially leading to increased demand and innovation in coconut-derived goods,” it added.
Meanwhile, the PCA noted that coconut stakeholders worldwide could begin exploring new opportunities, particularly in markets previously hindered by allergenrelated restrictions.
“With allergen-related trade barriers lifted, the road ahead is lined with potential for expanded markets and creative product innovations; it signals a new era where coconut’s true nature can shine as a vital contributor to the global food and agricultural land -
scape,” it added. With this, the agency said it would ensure that the Philippines’ coconut farmers will benefit from the FDA’s move.
“The PCA is committed to harnessing this momentum, ensuring that every Filipino coconut farmer, processor, and entrepreneur benefits from this milestone.”
“We will continue our mission to march the Philippine coconut industry to unparalleled peaks, unlocking new possibilities for growth, innovation, and prosperity.”
The Philippines is one of the leading coconut-producing countries worldwide. The tropical fruit is also among the country’s top agricultural export commodities. Ada Pelonia
NTA: Defend local industry from smuggled tobacco, vapes
Tof Prabowo’s predecessor, Joko Widodo, who relied on tax incentives and well-telegraphed export bans to stimulate investment into the processing of raw commodities.
It also comes at a time when coal and nickel, two of Indonesia’s highest-earning commodities, are trading near multi-year lows. Both sectors will be affected by the measure, as well as the country’s huge palm oil plantations.
“In the mining and plantation sectors, such a retention rule could trigger potential layoffs due to unhealthy company cash flows,” Sutrisno Iwantono, head of public policy division at the Indonesian Employers Association, said in statement. “There are also fears of a knock-on effect of reduced coal and mineral production.”
The commodities covered under the new rule account for nearly half of Indonesia’s non-oil and gas exports. Shipments of mining, agricultural, forestry and fisheries products reached almost $115 billion last year.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said exporters can use their foreign currency proceeds to pay state levies, taxes, and dividends, according to a statement from the presidential palace. They are also encouraged to convert their funds into rupiah and use a specific deposit instrument as back-to-back collateral for loans from banks or Indonesia Exim bank, it added.
“We are already supporting the program by providing FX deposit instruments at attractive interest rates and hedging through FX swaps,” Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo said on Wednesday. He added BI is preparing two foreign currency-denominated securities, known as SVBI and SUVBI, in which exporters can place their earnings, in addition to term deposits and swaps offered under the current policy.
HE National Tobacco Administration (NTA) is calling for “unified actions” that will shield the local industry from the ill effects of the illicit trade of tobacco and vape products.
NTA Administrator Belinda Sanchez said comprehensive regulatory initiatives would mitigate the impact of illicit trade and ensure a secure environment for the tobacco industry.
Such measures include strengthened national policies, enhanced regional cooperation, improved enforcement mechanisms, and increased public awareness.
“The illicit tobacco trade is a significant challenge, adversely impacting government revenues, public health, national security, and the livelihoods of
the Filipino farmers,” Sanchez said in a statement.
The NTA said it has observed the high prevalence of illicit tobacco trade in Central Luzon and the rampant proliferation of illegal cigarettes in Mindanao, based on its latest monitoring.
“Many of the cigarettes that were previously confiscated were smuggled, illicit whites with no tax stamps, no graphic health warnings, and unregistered brands.”
Citing the 2023 Euromonitor Report’s estimates, the agency said the rising trend of the illicit tobacco trade and vape products contributed to the decline of legal tobacco products by 35.2 percent from Calendar Years (CYs) 2019 to 2023.
Furthermore, the agency said the national government was
deprived of the excise tax collection of P109 billion compared to the projected collection of P244 billion for CY 2023.
Citing estimates from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), NTA said the illicit tobacco trade’s occurrence has caused a gradual decrease in revenue collection by the national government as it incurred a loss of up to P100 billion annually.
Meanwhile, the NTA noted that it has conducted various communication campaign activities such as distributing posters, webinars, forum, and an audio-video presentation on social media and its radio program to increase awareness of the ill effects of tobacco smuggling.
Currently, the agency said 2.2 million Filipinos are financially
dependent on tobacco including over 430,000 farmers, farm workers, and their family members. Rampant illicit tobacco trade and misdeclaration of vapor products are projected to cost the government P240.3 billion in excise tax leakages over the next three years. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/01/10/ illicit-tobacco-trade-vaporfraud-spell-p240-b-tax-loss/)
Data from the BIR, as estimated by the OSSTG Ways and Means Committee, showed the government will lose P171.95 billion and P5.94 billion, respectively, due to the illicit trade of cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
The misdeclaration of vape products is also expected to affect collections, resulting in a P62.52billion shortfall. Ada Pelonia
‘Laws useless if rice hoarders, profiteers are not punished’
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
MAKATI Mayor and senatorial aspirant Abigail Binay said the government should go all out to stop the operations of cartels and rice smuggling that affects the livelihood of local farmers.
“ Sa dami ng mga batas natin when it comes to cartel, profiteering, bakit wala pa yatang nakakulong? Pati smuggler pag nahuli di naman nila ipinapakita, hindi nila inilalabas. Sinasabi lang nila iba -blacklist. Pero ang
tanong, mayroon ba tayong nasampolan man lang?” said Binay in an interview with Super Radyo DZBB over the program
“Ikaw na Ba? The Senatorial Interviews.”
Catching and prosecuting those involved in rice cartels and smuggling would prevent any price manipulation, Binay said.
“If wala po tayong naipapakita na seryoso ang gobyerno sa pagpapatupad ng batas , then paulit-ulit na gagawin ng mga cartel o mga sindikato na malalakas ang loob na magkontrol ng presyo.” Binay also welcomed the
declaration of a national food security emergency to help address the surge in retail prices of rice, but said it would offer only temporary relief if middlemen were not eliminated altogether.
“Rice prices would go down if the government directly buys rice products from local farmers, without going through middlemen.”
Earlier, news reports said the proposed declaration of a national food security emergency would enable the National Food Authority (NFA) to buy rice stocks from local farmers and sell them at a lower price.
“Dapat bilhin ng gobyerno ang ani ng mga magsasaka para hindi na ito dumaan sa mga middleman. Ang problema natin yumayaman ang middlemen.”
Last year, the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act (AGES) was signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. It imposes stiffer penalties against smugglers and hoarders of agricultural food products, including cartels. Violators of the law face a fine five times the value of smuggled or hoarded agricultural or fishery products, and life imprisonment if proven guilty.
Meralco’s franchise renewal: Balancing consumer welfare and accountability
Meralco’s recent announcement about a reduction in electricity rates offers a welcome relief amid the ongoing rise in costs that consumers are facing today. a decrease of P0.2189 per kilowatt hour (kWh) may seem modest at first glance, but for households consuming 200 kWh, this translates into approximately P44 in savings—a welcome relief for many amidst escalating prices of basic commodities and fuels. (Read the BusinessMirror story, “Power rates drop to P11.74/kWh,” January 13, 2025).
As one resident reflected, this rate cut not only lighten the burden of monthly bills but also serve as a reminder of the importance of energy conservation. Meralco’s persistent efforts to educate consumers about efficient electricity usage have evidently made an impact. By promoting energy-saving practices and encouraging the upgrade to more efficient appliances, the company has fostered a culture of mindfulness around consumption. This proactive approach deserves commendation, especially in times when every peso counts. Moreover, the context of Meralco’s service delivery cannot be overlooked. While occasional service interruptions during typhoons are understandable, the overall reliability of the electricity supply is a significant factor for consumers. The ongoing discussions around Meralco’s franchise renewal highlight the critical role the company plays in ensuring stable electricity service for millions. With approximately 7.775 million Filipinos relying on Meralco, the stakes are high.
Senator Joel Villanueva’s recent advocacy for the renewal of Meralco’s franchise underscores the importance of accountability in public utility services. His balanced approach emphasizes that while Meralco has been a partner in national progress, it must also meet stringent standards of service reliability and consumer protection. The proposed investments of P24 billion over the next five years to enhance the power distribution system reflect a commitment to not only maintaining but improving service quality.
Consumer welfare should indeed be the focus of these discussions. The question posed—if not Meralco, then who?—is a vital one. The alternative experiences of provinces grappling with frequent brownouts serve as a stark reminder of the importance of reliable electricity service. As we weigh the merits of Meralco’s franchise extension, it is crucial to consider how the company has contributed to economic growth and stability.
At a time when public trust in service providers often fluctuates, Meralco’s commitment to transparent communication and consumer education is commendable. While it is important to acknowledge the company’s efforts, it’s equally vital to emphasize the ongoing need for vigilance and improvement.
The recent rate cut is a positive development that deserves recognition, but it is merely a part of a larger narrative. The debate surrounding Meralco’s franchise renewal is not simply about extending a license; it is about ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply for millions of Filipinos while upholding principles of accountability, fairness, and consumer welfare.
The path forward requires a careful balancing act, one that prioritizes both the needs of the company and the interests of the consumers it serves. Senator Villanueva’s approach, emphasizing accountability and consumer protection alongside the importance of a stable energy supply, offers a framework for navigating this complex issue.
What turns the world
TOUTSIDE THE BOX
he world turns around two effects: crude oil prices and currency exchange rates. The quiet pulse of love, the beacon of hope, and the sacred fire of passion do not count.
The quest for efficient and affordable energy production can be marked 2,000 years ago with the Greek mathematician/engineer Hero of Alexandria. His early example of a steam turbine, the aeolipile, led him to describe various machines operated by air, steam, or water pressure or pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
Coal provided the fuel for the Industrial Revolutions and crude oil for the advances not only in power generation but for some 6,000 other products that come from a barrel of crude oil. However, in 2023, fossil fuels generated over 60 percent of the world’s electricity, with oil and coal accounting for a large portion of that, and 32 percent of the world’s energy supply coming directly from crude oil.
Natural gas supplies 24 percent
(43 percent in the US) and 27 percent of the world’s energy supply comes from coal, according to data from the Energy Institute.
However, it is the “6,000” that makes crude oil the lifeblood of the global economy. You can forget about the lipstick, shampoo, and deodorants that depend on crude oil. But you cannot ignore the asphalt used for road construction, roofing, and waterproofing. Without oil we do not have the synthetic rubber used in tires, footwear, and industrial applications.
Petrochemical feedstocks are the raw materials used to manufacture chemicals, plastics, and other materials crucial for producing everything from textiles to pharmaceuticals. No crude oil means no paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin because they all involve petrochemi-
More critically for the Philippines is if Trump makes good on his Drill, Drill, Drill promise to bring oil prices down. I think he will do that, and combined with keeping the US dollar stable rather than stronger, I see a better future for the PSE.
cal intermediates in their synthesis. We could probably do without plastic single-use water bottles, but fertilizers and pesticides derived from crude oil involve complex chemical processes to create the necessary compounds.
Natural gas is used to produce ammonia to produce nitrogen fertilizers and pesticides, illustrating the deep integration of petroleum into modern agriculture. The energyintensive processes for extracting/ processing phosphate rock and potash rely on petroleum-based energy sources.
That is why the trend of the global price of crude oil correlates with the trend of national inflation and economic growth, and the subsequent trend of the standard of living. Therefore, oil has an “international value” as does everything but more so because everyone needs oil.
But the number one thing with “international value” is currency,
Davos seeing raft of Trump ‘unknowns’ counsels calm and caution
TBy Jenny Leonard & Alessandra Migliaccio
he global elite in Davos woke up Tuesday breathing a sigh of relief after President Donald Trump concluded his first day in office only talking about trade wars rather than starting any.
But just how long the world’s most effusive tariff salesman will hold fire is anyone’s guess—and the chief executives and investor class gathered in the Swiss mountain resort town are bracing themselves.
“Even when I was there eight years ago, there was always a heavy debate on tariffs—on the positives and the negatives of tariffs, on the intended consequences, unintended consequences,” Gary Cohn, IBM Corp. vice chairman and Trump’s former National Economic Council director, said Tuesday on Bloomberg TV. “Look, it’s day one of a four-year administration. You don’t have to put tariffs on day one.” Cohn, who often was in the middle of bitter fights with the hawkish wing of the economic team in Trump’s first term, ended up resigning after the president used a sweeping national security statute to impose steel and aluminum tariffs on the entire world.
Trump’s pronouncement Monday night that he was “thinking” about putting tariffs of 25 percent on Mexico and Canada, possibly by February 1, is leaving open the question how much this is a negotiating ploy to extract early concessions out of the nation’s top trading partners.
Surprisingly left off his initial hit list, for now anyway, was China. Trump struck a more collaborative tone toward Beijing and wouldn’t commit to imposing duties on the second-largest economy even after he promised it on the campaign trail.
A broad executive action on trade policy, however, set up studies for his Cabinet secretaries to assess compliance with various trade deals, including the phase one agreement Trump struck with Beijing that he’s often claimed China broke its commitment on.
Trump’s pronouncement Monday night that he was “thinking” about putting tariffs of 25% on Mexico and Canada, possibly by Feb. 1, is leaving open the question how much this is a negotiating ploy to extract early concessions out of the nation’s top trading partners.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Tuesday used the opportunity in his Davos address to pledge more openness and transparency. He also seemed to acknowledge the need to respond to Trump’s demands.
“We don’t seek trade surplus. We want to import more competitive, quality products and services to promote balanced trade,” Ding said, without naming any country. China has an overall low level of tariffs at 7.3 percent, he added.
Former International Monetary Fund Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu—who is also an ex-People’s Bank of China deputy governor— said he wasn’t surprised that Trump refrained from imposing tariffs on
and that is determined by the crosscurrency exchange rate. Like going home to Mom’s home cooking, everybody eventually takes their money “home” and at the end of the day, it is always about the currency exchange rate. For example.
Have you been complaining about the Philippine stock market for the past three years? Of course. The PSEi is down some 9.3 percent since the beginning of January 2022. That is if you invested using Philippine pesos. If you brought in US dollars, then you are only down 9 percent going USD to PHP to PSE back to USD.
However, if you were lucky enough to start with JP-Yen, then JPY to PHP to PSE to JPY made you a profit of 23 percent since January 1, 2022. Thanks to the fine currency management of the Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye, a Turkish lira investment is 112 percent higher. However, an Argentinian who brought his or her Argentine pesos to the PSE currently have a profit of 819 percent. Olé. Muy bueno. While high tariffs on imports into the US, or a devaluation of the US dollar, may be considered “longterm unwise,” the potential shortterm benefits for the US trade deficit might make it worthwhile. Tariffs
“Mangun” A15
China. “Fundamentally, there’s a lot of mutual interest between the US and China,” he said in an interview with Bloomberg TV.
European Central Bank Governing Council member Francois Villeroy de Galhau, the French central bank governor, said he is not too concerned about saber-rattling from Washington.
Not too worried
“IF I look at our side of the Atlantic, I’m not very worried,” he told Bloomberg TV. “I am vigilant but not worried about inflation, including the effect of Mr. Trump’s policies. We will see the degree of possible retaliation but I would say that the perspective on inflation is quite assured.” Nomura Holdings Inc.’s wholesale division chief Christopher Willcox said Trump’s tariff policies would be inflationary in the first year but could adjust over time. “Intellectually, tariffs don’t have to be inflationary. If the tariff increases are matched by an increase in the dollar, that can offset the inflationary impact,” he said on Bloomberg TV. See “Davos” A15
India set to take back 18,000 citizens from US to placate Trump
By Sudhi Ranjan Sen and Dan Strumpf
india’s government is prepared to work with donald Trump’s administration to identify and take back all its citizens residing illegally in the Us, an early signal from new delhi that it’s willing to comply with the incoming american president and avoid a trade war.
The US has identified some 18,000 undocumented Indian migrants to be sent back home, for which India will verify and start the process of deportation, according to people familiar with the matter. The figure could be much higher than that, though, given that it’s unclear how many undocumented Indian migrants live in the US, the people added, asking not to be identified because the discussions are private.
Youth from western India, in particular the states of Punjab and Gujarat, are believed to constitute a majority of the undocumented immigrants in the US, the people said.
Like several other nations, India is working behind the scenes to appease the Trump administration and avoid the brunt of its trade threats.
The crackdown on illegal migration has been a signature campaign pledge for Trump. Within hours of his inauguration Monday, the new president moved to fulfill that promise as he pushed to end birthright citizenship and mobilize troops on the US-Mexico border.
In return for its cooperation, India hopes that the Trump administration would protect legal immigration channels used by its citizens to enter the US such as student visas and the H-1B program for skilled workers.
Indian citizens accounted for almost three-fourths of the 386,000 H-1B visas granted in 2023, according to official data.
Any slack in taking back undocumented US migrants could also adversely affect India’s labor and mobility agreements with other countries, the people said. With a jobs shortage back home, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has signed migration agreements with an array of countries in recent years, including Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Israel and others.
“As part of India-US cooperation on migration and mobility, both sides are engaged in a process to deter illegal migration. This is being done to create more avenues for legal migration from India to the US,” said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs. “The latest deportation of Indian nationals from the US by a chartered flight is a result of this cooperation,” he added, referring to an October repatriation action.
Rising numbers
INDIA is a relatively modest contributor of undocumented migrants to the US, with its citizens accounting for about 3% of all unlawful crossings encountered by US border patrol officials in fiscal 2024, according to US Customs and Border Protection data. Latin American countries such as Mexico, Venezuela and Guatemala account for a far larger share.
However, the tally and share of Indian undocumented migrants has been rising in recent years. In particular, it has shot up at the less-trafficked northern US border, where Indians account for almost a quarter of all illegal crossings and also the biggest share of unlawful migrants stopped at that entry point, the data show.
“India will have do things in the
While the total number of undocumented Indian migrants in the US isn’t certain, a report published last year by the Department of Homeland Security estimated some 220,000 unauthorized Indian immigrants resided in the US as of 2022.
domain where it is easy to deliver,” said Harsh Pant, a professor of International Relations at King’s College London. It will be difficult to deliver on trade and tariff because of “broader structural issues” and as the “two countries are in different stages of development”
“Illegal immigration is an area where India can demonstrate to the Trump administration that it is delivering.”
While the total number of undocumented Indian migrants in the US isn’t certain, a report published last year by the Department of Homeland Security estimated some 220,000 unauthorized Indian immigrants resided in the US as of 2022.
India has already sought to show a cooperative attitude toward US border enforcement efforts, including toward officials in the Biden administration. The October repatriation flight with more than 100 Indian nationals built on the more than 1,100 Indian citizens deported during the previous 12 months.
Taking back undocumented migrants could also further Modi’s goal of deterring secessionist movements overseas, according to the people, including the so-called Khalistan movement, which seeks to establish a separate Sikh state on Indian soil. India has cracked down on the movement, and officials believe some of the group’s backers in the US and Canada are undocumented migrants.
Trade worries
W HILE Modi is seen to have friendly ties with Trump and has welcomed the new administration, it is cautious of any unpredictable action from the US president, which could lead to a costly trade war. Trump has repeatedly complained that India’s high import taxes hurt American businesses and has vowed reciprocal duties on the South Asian nation.
In his first day in office, Trump focused his attention on immediate neighbors. The US president said on Monday that he was planning to impose tariffs of as much as 25% on Mexico and Canada by Feb. 1, blaming them for “allowing vast numbers of people” into the country.
Canada in particular was “a very bad abuser,” Trump said, complaining about fentanyl and migrants crossing its US border.
While it’s not fully clear why the northern US border has become such a major entry point for unauthorized migrants from India, reasons could include a halt to visa-free travel for Indians to El Salvador in 2023, and the relative ease of travel to Canada for Indians, according to the Niskanen Center, a Washington-based think tank. Bloomberg
Trump pushes to make US an AI superpower, with fewer guardrails
By Jackie Davalos and Shirin Ghaffary
OvEr the past two years, the Biden administration struck a careful balance on artificial intelligence. The White house took steps to ensure the Us stayed ahead of China in developing the technology while also trying to address some of ai s many potential risks.
In his first 24 hours back in Washington, Donald Trump sent a different message to the AI community: Just build.
On Monday, Trump rescinded Biden’s sweeping executive order on AI. The move immediately halted the implementation of key safety and transparency requirements for AI developers. Some tech leaders attending the World Economic Forum in Davos praised his approach. Other experts warned against an AI world with fewer guardrails. Trump is expected to issue a new executive order on AI, but with a lighter touch.
On Tuesday, Trump announced a joint venture led by SoftBank Group Corp., OpenAI and Oracle Corp. that will fund billions of dollars worth of AI infrastructure. To unveil the project, Trump was joined by Softbank’s Masayoshi Son and tech executives including Sam Altman and Larry Ellison. The venture will deploy $100 billion “immediately,” Son said, with the goal of increasing to “at least” $500 billion in AI projects, including data centers and physical campuses. Son touted the joint venture as “the beginning of a golden age.” Ellison said data centers are currently under construction, including one in Abilene, Texas.
On the eve of taking office, Trump said that he would pave the way for “people with a lot of money” to invest in so-called “AI plants” to power data centers for artificial intelligence — with little concern for whether those energy sources are good or bad for the environment.
With these early efforts, Trump is not only rethinking the US approach to AI but also moving further from Europe, setting up a clash of continents over how best to regulate AI and compete with China. The EU previously unnerved some leading AI companies by enacting tougher tech legislation on privacy and
safety. By comparison, the Trump team has brought in prominent tech figures, including billionaire Elon Musk and venture capitalist David Sacks, to help shape its tech and AI policies.
Exactly how hands-off Trump’s AI strategy ends up being may depend in part on Musk’s role in influencing it. Musk has long held a nuanced view of the technology. While Musk has invested in AI through his startup, xAI, he’s also repeatedly warned that it poses an existential threat if not contained.
A warm reception at Davos “IT seems clear that the new administration is going to be encouraging of tech and tech growth,” Demis Hassabis, chief executive officer of Google DeepMind, said in an interview with Bloomberg News in Davos on Tuesday. “The administration is getting advice from the people who really understand what’s happening at the cutting edge.”
Hassabis was one of many tech leaders in Davos who sounded cautiously optimistic about the early days of Trump’s second term and its implications for AI development.
OpenAI Chief Financial Officer Sarah Friar told Bloomberg News that the Trump administration has already shown “a real willingness to lean in” and “be very on the economic front foot” when it comes to technology and AI. Likewise, Alphabet Inc. President Ruth Porat said Trump’s team wants to “clear away some of the impediments to investing” in data centers and other infrastructure needed for AI.
“There is a tremendous amount of opportunity to continue working with them,” Porat said.
Less focus on clean energy IN recent months, OpenAI and other companies urged the Biden admin-
On Monday, Trump rescinded Biden’s sweeping executive order on AI. The move immediately halted the implementation of key safety and transparency requirements for AI developers. Some tech leaders attending the World Economic Forum in Davos praised his approach. Other experts warned against an AI world with fewer guardrails. Trump is expected to issue a new executive order on AI, but with a lighter touch.
istration to pave the way for unprecedented investments in data centers and energy sources. OpenAI, in particular, called for massive 5 gigawatt data centers — large enough to power entire cities.
Last week, Biden signed an executive order directing federal agencies to lease government land for AI data centers, emphasizing the use of clean energy sources. Asked on Tuesday whether he would rescind that order, Trump said, “no, I wouldn’t do that. That sounds to me like it’s something that I would like.”
Even so, Trump is likely to relax the clean energy requirements, said Joseph Majkut, director of the energy security and climate change program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. After touting future AI investment at a rally over the weekend, Trump said his administration would cut the “environmental regulations that are really put in there in order to stop progress in this country.”
If so, the Trump administration may put the onus on tech companies to decide their own comfort level with relying more on fossil fuels. In the race to build more power-hungry data centers for AI, Microsoft Corp. and Google have already seen their ambitious climate pledges slip out of reach.
“The key issues to watch are the extent to which the hyper-scaling companies are comfortable with powering new data centers with high-emission power because they have their own climate goals and
their own reputation to maintain,” Majkut said.
Competing with China FOR the Trump administration, and possibly many in the AI industry, climate and safety concerns rank behind a fear of being outcompeted by China. At Davos, Alphabet’s Porat said it’s not “a foregone conclusion” that the US will maintain a lead over China in developing more sophisticated AI systems. Meanwhile, OpenAI’s Friar said China is “absolutely investing in this area” and understands how critical AI is to their economy and security. “We should not be naive on that front,” she said.
As if to underscore that concern, DeepSeek, a Chinese startup, unveiled an updated AI model this week that it says is competitive with OpenAI’s technology. The company’s founder also appeared at a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, according to the South China Morning Post.
“In the past month alone we have seen very powerful advances in China’s AI capabilities relative to our government,” Alexandr Wang, founder and CEO of Scale AI, a data labeling startup, wrote in an open letter to Trump on Tuesday about winning the “AI war.” Wang added: “You have the right team in place to take on this challenge and ensure we maintain our lead against adversaries.”
Some industry watchers worry about the unintended consequences of winning that battle, however.
“This is setting the US up for short-term gain but long-term pain,” said Frank Pasquale, a law professor at Cornell Tech and Cornell Law School. “Trump is clearing a path for more investment in artificial intelligence where there’s less risk of regulation,” he said, but “there was a lot of good reason to have guardrails in place.”
The goal, Pasquale said, “was to help guide companies away from building unsafe products.” Now, the US government may be leaving it to the companies to decide for themselves. With assistance from Mark Niquette /Bloomberg
SoftBank-backed fish firm allegedly faked most of its sales
By David Ramli, Olivia Poh & Yoolim Lee
EFishEry Pte, one of indonesia’s most prominent startups, may have inflated its revenue and profit over several years, according to an internal investigation triggered by a whistleblower’s claim about the company’s accounting.
A preliminary, ongoing probe into the agritech startup, backed by investors including SoftBank Group Corp. and Temasek Holdings Pte, estimates that management inflated revenue by almost $600 million in the nine months through September last year, according to a 52-page draft report circulated among investors and reviewed by Bloomberg News. That would mean more than 75 percent of the reported figures were fake, the report said.
EFishery, which deploys feeders to fish and shrimp farmers in Indonesia, was a darling of the nation’s startup scene and scored a valuation of $1.4 billion when G42, an AI firm controlled by United Arab Emirates royal Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, backed its latest funding round. It has raised hundreds of millions of dollars in an attempt to modernize the country’s fish industry, providing farmers with smart feeding devices as well as feed, and then buying their produce to sell into the broader market.
Investors were initially enticed by its profitability at a time when layoffs, CEO resignations and plummeting valuations in the tech sector dominated headlines. It presented a $16 million profit for the first nine months of 2024 to investors, but the investigation commissioned by the board alleges the firm actually generated a $35.4 million loss.
Revenue for the period was estimated at $157 million, rather than the $752 million investors were told, according to the report. Management also inflated revenue and profit numbers for several previous years, the report said.
The report was initiated after a whistleblower approached a board member with allegations that the accounts weren’t accurate, according to people familiar with the matter. The board then commissioned a formal investigation in December, and dismissed co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Gibran Huzaifah after the accounting inconsistencies were discovered, the
the business community can be an asset for companies.
“Everyone has a fairly good view of what’s going on in Washington,”
people said.
“We are fully aware of the gravity of the market speculation and we take this matter with the utmost seriousness,” eFishery said in an e-mailed statement. “We remain dedicated to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance and ethics in all of eFishery’s operations.”
The report, authored by FTI Consulting, is marked as a draft and subject to further changes as the investigation continues. It’s based on more than 20 interviews with company staff and reviews of accounts and messages on WhatsApp, Slack and other channels, according to the report. The draft report notes that investigators haven’t yet spoken with the auditors or reviewed any audit workpapers or other documentation. The numbers are likely to change further, with bank statements, interviews and other accounts still yet to be found or completed.
Huzaifah didn’t respond to messages seeking comment. Temasek and SoftBank declined to comment, while representatives of FTI and G42 didn’t immediately respond to queries.
Shareholders and directors have been surprised at the scale of the alleged fraud given the protective measures that were put in place,
he said. “Look, the one thing about the Trump administration is they’re very transparent.”
Still, he cautioned, there is a lot of room for pendulum swings. “I always take Davos with a grain
including channel checks and exit interviews of staff, said one of the people, who asked not to be named as the matter is private. EFishery had previously hired PricewaterhouseCoopers and Grant Thornton to audit financial results. The two accounting firms declined to comment via e-mail. Investor calls have been taking place since the investigation began and the key question will be what to do with the company’s assets and remaining cash, one of the people said.
While eFishery said it had over 400,000 fish feeders in operation at customers, initial investigations estimate it only had about 24,000. In total, internal books show retained losses at roughly $152 million from its inception until November 2024. While the total assets of the firm stand at $220 million, this includes $63 million in accounts receivable and $98 million in investments, according to the report. The allegations of fraud may be damaging for Indonesia’s startup scene, and come at a critical time as young companies and investors in the country struggle to raise new funding. EFishery was the nation’s latest so-called unicorn, or a startup valued at more than $1 billion. With assistance from Min Jeong Lee /Bloomberg
of salt. Everyone likes to be excited,” he said. “But ultimately we have to see what the year brings because there’s more unknowns than knowns in the equation.” With assistance from Rebecca Choong Wilkins/Bloomberg
Thursday, January 23, 2025
Weak enforcement flagged in robust illicit tobacco trade
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto and Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
ALTHOUGHa proposed “track and trace” system is seen to plug tax leakages, this would be better combatted with stringent enforcement to further prevent illicit tobacco trade.
At the Senate Committee on Ways and Means hearing on Wednesday, Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian said the illicit tobacco trade continues to thrive in the Philippines due to the low conviction rate of criminals.
This comes after the Bureau of Customs (BOC) filed 62 cases against smugglers of illicit cigarettes from 2018 to 2024, with a dutiable value of P2.255 billion.
Of the 62 cases filed, only one has been convicted, according to Assistant Commissioner Atty. Vincent Philip Maronilla.
Meanwhile, of the 29 cases the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has filed with the Department of Justice (DOJ) with an estimated tax liability of P9.9 billion, no one has been convicted yet.
Kung wala namang nakukulong, walang natatakot. Kung walang natatakot, tuloy-tuloy ang ligaya [If no one is put in jail, then no one is afraid. If no one is afraid, the fun continues],” Gatchalian said.
The lawmaker directed the Department of Finance (DOF), the head of the two main tax-collecting agencies, to look at the process of improving enforcement and conviction rates.
“Even if we improve the ‘track and trace’ system, even though we put the LGUs to action [but] if we don’t get a conviction, then it’s nothing. They will just be scot-free,” Gatchalian said.
The DOF has proposed a tracking and tracing system for the manufacturing, importation, storage, removal, distribution, and sale of
DepEd revisits CSE, but claims teen pregnancy dip since its adoption
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
EVEN though the teenage pregnancy cases in public schools showed a significant decrease from 2019 to 2024, the Department of Education (DepEd) is set to discuss whether or not to suspend implementation of the controversial Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), integrated into the K to 12 curriculum in 2018.
“That’s what we’re discussing, we are having our executive meeting ...with my undersecretaries and assistant secretaries, we will meet on that on Friday, and discuss the proposal in the House of Representatives [to suspend CSE],” Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay Wednesday.
“So we will review, from a legal point of view, if we can do that [suspend] since it is mandated by law...CSE [is] based on Reproductive Health Law and on HIV/AIDS Prevention Law,” Angara explained.
DO No. 31
EVEN before debates on CSE’s implementation under the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill erupted, the CSE has been implemented based on Section 14 of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012 and integrated into the K to 12 curriculum.
In 2018, DepEd released the policy guidelines for CSE implementation in all public and private elementary, junior and senior high schools nationwide.
Based on DepEd Order (DO) No. 31, series of 2018, signed by then Education Secretary Leonor Briones, CSE is a “curriculum-based process of teaching and learning about cognitive, emotional, physical and social aspects of sexuality that is scientific, age-and-developmentally appropriate, culturally and genderresponsive, and with a rights-based approach.”
Based on a report on the Historical Trend of Teenage Pregnancy Cases in Basic Education of DepEd as of January 13, 2025, in school year (SY) 2019-2020 the number of
adolescent pregnancy cases reached 35,739; for SY 2020-2021 it went down to 27,031; for SY 2021-2022 it was 27,940; for SY 2022-2023- it was 13,003 and; 6,840 for SY 20232024.
The number of dropouts due to teenage pregnancy also went down from 1,625 for SY 2019-2020 to 876 from SY 2023 - 2024.
Earlier, Assistant Secretary for Operations Dexter B. Galban, in an interview with ABS-CBN News, said the decrease may be attributed to the “robust” implementation of CSE.
Another contributor, Galban believes, is the return of face-to-face classes wherein teachers and students can openly discuss sexuality issues.
Local context considered DEPED also refuted the claims of Project Dalisay’s video on social media, decrying CSE, as they expressed alarm that the pending bill promoting CSE, is tantamount to “hypersexualizing” children at an early age. The program is linked to international organizations such as Unesco, UNFPA, and Unicef.
Likewise, the group pointed the overreliance on risk reduction through contraceptives and “safe practices” over promoting abstinence and moral decision-making.
However, the DepEd stressed that the standards set by international groups for implementing CSE are “not followed in total” by DepEd. “There is a localization which takes into account local culture and context.”
DepEd added that, like in other countries, “the content of CSE is tailored to fit the local contexts.”
Before CSE, DepEd said, learning competencies were integrated into the existing curriculum according to the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act; and consultations were done to determine how learners can best critically identify which information or situation is/are helpful or harmful for them and make responsible decisions about it.
On the issue of inappropriate
tobacco products, cigars, cigarettes, heated tobacco products, vapor products and novel tobacco products to combat tax evasion and protect consumers.
The system is still being procured by the BIR through a public-private partnership.
AER weighs in ACTION for Economic Reforms Researcher Adolfo Jose Montesa said that instead of doing away with tobacco taxes or decreasing tobacco taxes, the way to address illicit trade is through better enforcement.
The House Committee on Ways and Means filed House Bill No. 11279 to temporarily suspend the 5 percent annual tax rate hike on cigarettes and other tobacco products until 2026.
The proposed legislation sparked reactions from the health sector, as this would impact the funding for universal health care coverage that is largely funded by sin taxes.
Montesa said sin taxes have generated significant revenues, increasing by 400 percent the budget of the Department of Health and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation in the previous years.
Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (Seatca) Executive Direc-
tor Ulysses Dorotheo said countries with low excise taxes have high illicit trade, while other jurisdictions with high tobacco tax rates were able to keep illicit trade at low levels with effective law enforcement.
“The industry across the world has consistently argued that illicit trade is caused by tobacco tax increases, and time and again, the evidence has proven the industry wrong,” Dorotheo said.
Tax policy reforms
MOREOVER, Montesa cited a study from De La Salle University in 2021, saying that the way to address illicit trade is to have ongoing tax policy reforms, which should be taken as part of a comprehensive program to lower cigarette consumption in the country.
“It’s a sign that we have weak enforcement and tax collection if there is a prevalence of illicit trade. And in some cases, the presence of a robust illicit market can even lead to increased corruption and criminal activity,” Montesa said.
As such, the AER recommended better enforcement, with strengthened coordination between the BIR and the BOC along with local government units that have intelligence on what is happening on the ground.
LOVE FOR EGGS Workers transfer trays of eggs for delivery to local suppliers in Metro Manila on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. The Department of Agriculture (DA) will launch an P85.2-million chicken layer program this year, known as the LOVE project (Layered Organization for Voluntary Egg production), to boost egg production and provide food security and livelihood. As part of the program, small-scale egg production in selected areas nationwide will be pushed, benefiting farmers, community groups, and cooperatives identified by regional offices and local governments. NONOY LACZA
‘LOVE SCAMS COULD TEAR BOTH YOUR HEART, WALLET’
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
AS Valentine’s Day draws closer, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and Scam Watch Pilipinas have sounded the alarm against love scams, a growing menace that exploits both the heart and the wallet.
Through the newly launched #UnmatchPH 2025 campaign, the organizations, in partnership with private institutions, aim to educate Filipinos on identifying and avoiding these emotionally and financially damaging schemes.
Jocel De Guzman, co-convenor of Scam Watch Pilipinas, described love scams as a “gateway” to other fraudulent financial activities.
“Love scams become a gateway to all kinds of scams, such as loan scams and investment scams,” he explained. “What makes love scams particularly painful is the double agony— breaking someone’s heart while also stealing their money.”
CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos urged the public to take action by reporting any incidents of online scams through the government hotline, 1326. He pointed out that love
scams tend to surge during Valentine’s season, as scammers prey on the heightened emotions of individuals seeking companionship.
During the campaign’s launch, various types of love scams were reintroduced, including fabricated sob stories to gain sympathy, false promises of high financial returns, impersonation of military personnel seeking assistance, and grooming victims over an extended period to gain their trust.
De Guzman also shared key indicators that someone may be a love scammer. Warning signs include profile pictures that appear too perfect to be genuine and the absence of social media accounts or verification symbols.
“Another red flag is if the person consistently refuses video calls, avoids meeting in person, and—perhaps the most common warning sign—starts asking for money. This could include requests for personal funds, investments, or even loans,” he added. The campaign was supported by private sector partners such as Whoscall, Converge ICT, GoTyme, Maya, BPI, and Truth360.
‘Neda transition to Depdev fulfills Charter’
AFTER nearly four decades, Congress has fulfilled a significant constitutional mandate by approving the creation of the Department of Economic Planning and Development (Depdev), according to a leader of the House of Representatives.
House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda, who has been the principal author of similar bills in the 17th, 18th, and 19th Congresses, said the congressional bicameral conference committee has already approved the Depdev measure, calling it a milestone for the nation’s governance and economic future.
The proposal seeks to reorganize the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) into the Depdev.
He emphasized that the Neda was envisioned only as a temporary
entity to fill this role, and the Depdev now formalizes and elevates its functions to ensure independence and objectivity in economic analysis and policy making.
“Finally, after almost 40 years, Congress has completed the Constitution’s mandate of creating an independent economic planning agency with the stature of a full Cabinet department. Article XII, Section 9 of the Constitution specifically entrusted Congress with this responsibility. Indeed, the 1987 Constitution is the only constitution in the world that gave the national legislature this specific task,” he said.
“The need for independent economic analysis has deep roots in our modern history. Independence, however, has not been defined in our laws,” said Salceda.
The Depdev bill defines the new department’s independence as pro -
viding “impartial, objective, and evidence-based analyses and recommendations for the socio-economic betterment of the nation.”
According to Salceda, this guarantees that the department will have a voice in shaping the country’s economic policies, regardless of political differences. Salceda underscored the importance of an independent planning agency in a rapidly evolving global economic landscape. “This allows the country to base decisions on facts, evidence, and a long-term view of our prospects,” he explained.
As a former chair of the Regional Development Council (RDC) of Bicol and the Luzon Area Development Coordinating Council, Salceda pushed for the institutionalization of the RDCs and clarified their leadership election processes, which were previously defined only
through Executive Order No. 325. He also highlighted the institutionalization of Neda’s subcommittees, particularly the Subcommittee on Inflation Monitoring, ensuring that the government remains proactive in managing price stability. One of the bill’s significant features is its provision for “Futures Thinking,” which involves analyzing potential scenarios for the country’s future and crafting strategies to address them.
“Our neighbors who have excelled economically have invested heavily in preparing for the future,” Salceda said. “With this bill, we can do the same, making the country better prepared to navigate uncertainties.”
Salceda stressed the importance of Depdev in charting a sustainable and prosperous path for the Philippines. He expressed confidence that the new department would not only strengthen economic planning but also serve as a vital tool for the country’s long-term development. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
B1 Thursday, January 23, 2025
SteelAsia plant in Quezon to produce structural steel
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
SteelA Si A Manufacturing Corp., the country’s flagship steel manufacturer, is building a P30-billion plant in Candelaria, Quezon to produce heavy structural steel products that are currently being imported by the Philippines.
The company said the plant will commence commercial operation by 2027 and will help the country save some $1.2 billion annually.
to produce over one million tons of structural steel such as H beams, I beams, angles, channels, sheet piles, plates and other heavy profiles,” the steel maker said in a statement.
Benjamin Yao, Chairman and CEO of SteelAsia, said this will plant is expected to create around 7,000 jobs “instead of giving jobs to China, Vietnam, Thailand, Korea and Japan, our major suppliers.”
“Our carbon footprint will also be 90 percent lower than the traditional steelmaking process because we use recycled scrap metal and employ electric arc furnace technology.”
ects will also improve from 3 to 4 months for imports to 1 to 2 weeks once the Candelaria plant is on stream, SteelAsia said.
“This is a game changer initially for the construction and infrastructure sector since this means quicker project completion and lower costs,” Yao said.
According to the company, MCC Huatian is the global leader and is “most experienced” engineering company in building steel plants.
“It has built over 230 steel plants with a total installed capacity of over 200 million tons in 14 countries,” SteelAsia said.
CLI to spend ₧12B on Luzon projects DMCI
Huatian Engineering & Technology Co., Ltd.
“This heavy sections plant will use the latest European steel technology
SteelAsia said it awarded early this week the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) for the plant to MCC
RE g IO n A L pr operty devel -
oper Cebu Landmasters
Inc. (CLI) will invest some P12 billion in two projects in Luzon where it opened an office.
CLI Chairman and CEO Jose Soberano III said the company will develop an horizontal housing project in Cavite or Batangas and a residential-retail high-rise development in Metro Manila.
The company will allot about P5 billion for land acquisition, P2 billion for the first phase of the horizontal development of the housing project and some P5 billion for the condominium project, he said.
Soberano declined to name the exact location of the sites.
First to be launched will be the
MPower, SM seal supply deal
MA nILA Electric Co. (Meralco), through its retail electricity supply arm MPower, has inked a partnership with SM Retail, Inc. to supply 100 percent renewable energy to the retail conglomerate’s largest establishments in Metro Manila.
The long-term contract covers SM Retail properties, including its headquarters in Pasay City, and supports the company’s shift to sustainable operations by using clean energy sources.
“As a key player in the retail industry, SM remains vigilant of its environmental impact and social responsibility. With this partnership with MPower, we are on-track with our goal of powering our facilities with renewable energy under the Competitive Retail Electricity Market [CREM],” SM Retail VP for Workplace and Administration Luis Lava said. Under the CREM framework, energy consumers with a monthly consumption threshold of 500 kilowatts or more can select their energy suppliers based on specific needs. The initiative promotes competitive energy pricing and the adoption of alternative energy sources.
“SM Retail now stands among our valued customers to benefit from MPower’s competitively priced renewable energy portfolio. As a reflection of our commitment to sustainability, we will continue our efforts to meet the growing demand for renewable energy supply in the contestable market,” Meralco FVP and Head of MPower Redel M. Domingo said. Lorenz S. Marasigan
horizontal housing project which will be developed on a 50-hectare property that will have a total of 5,000 to 10,000 house-and-lot units.
Meanwhile, the vertical project in Metro Manila will be a twotower development with a retail component to be developed on about three hectares of land.
The condominium units will be targeting middle-market endusers since demand is still healthy in this market despite the oversupply caused by speculators that had targeted the Philippine Online g a ming Operator leasing segment.
“We want to create awareness in Manila... for this is still the financial, economic capital of the
The company said Yao has been “on a mission” to build the country’s first integrated steel industry and put the country at par with its neighbors.
Delivery lead times to proj -
Philippines and we feel that, with our 20 years experience, we can make a good difference here,” CLI
Executive Director and COO Jose Franco B. Soberano said.
CLI on Wednesday opened its Luzon office in Makati, its first regional office outside Visayas and Mindanao.
“This strategic move reinforces CLI’s commitment to becoming a national developer.”
The CLI Makati Office, situated on the 3rd floor of the newly built CWC Design Center, has a gross floor area of 329 square meters.
The space is designed to support the company’s growth and operations in Luzon, housing CLI’s Luzon sales office, investor relations office and other support
“In steel manufacturing, we cannot compromise on technology and know-how because we are committed to producing the best steel products.”
departments.
The office serves as a platform, showcasing the company’s newest project offerings while strategically promoting CLI’s standout developments in Visayas and Mindanao, making them highly accessible to the Manila market.
“The opening of our Luzon office marks an important milestone for CLI. With this new hub, we are poised to bring our expertise and proven track record in real estate development to the Mega Manila market,” Soberano III said.
“This new office symbolizes our readiness to bring the Cebu Landmasters brand to Luzon, leveraging our experience and expertise to serve a broader market.” VG Cabuag
PSALM extension hurdles Senate
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
THE Senate approved on third and final reading Senate Bill (SB) 2837, which extends the corporate term of the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM).
The bill will amend section 50 of Republic Act 9136, otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) of 2001.
Under the bill, the PSALM will continue to exist for a period of five years from the expiration of its original term on June 26, 2026. Through Epira, PSALM was entrusted to formulate and implement a privatization plan for the government’s energy assets previously held by the national Power Corp. (nPC). It was also mandated to manage the orderly sale, disposition, and privatization of these assets with the objective of liquidating all nPC financial obligations and stranded contract costs.
The bill’s sponsor and principal author, Senator Mark Villar thanked the chamber for its support on the bill’s passing.
“Mr. President, through this bill, we will provide PSALM five more years to give them sufficient time to settle existing obligations. This will also enable PSALM to commence asset and management plans for several significant Independent Power Producer (IPP) facilities and real estate assets,” he said.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to our colleagues who helped craft this bill— Deputy Majority Leader Senator JV Ejercito, Senator Raffy Tulfo, and Senator Pia Cayetano. I would also like to thank our Minority Leader Senator Koko Pimentel and Senator
Win gatchalian, for sharing their wealth of wisdom in further enhancing this bill.”
The PSALM was created in 2001 through Epira, which was essentially enacted to restructure the power sector previously monopolized by nPC. It was entrusted to formulate and implement a privatization plan for the government’s energy assets previously held by the nPC.
The corporation also took over the ownership of all existing nPC generation assets, liabilities, Independent Power Producers (IPP) contracts, real estate, and all other disposable assets. And it is also mandated to manage the orderly sale, disposition, and privatization of these assets with the objective of liquidating all nPC financial obligations and stranded contract costs.
“PSALM’S wealth of experience and knowledge gained throughout its 22 years of existence serves to operationalize the policies and provisions enshrined in the Epira,” Villar said in his sponsorship speech. According to Villar, as of December 2023, PSALM substantially reduced its financial obligations by 76 percent or from P1.2 trillion to P294 billion. PSALM likewise remitted to the Bureau of Treasury around P26 billion as dividends to the national government.
NBy VG Cabuag @villygc
ICKEL miner DMCI Mining Corp. on Wednesday said it is on track to transition its operations to three active mines this year from a single mine for most of last year.
The Zambales Chromite Mining Co. (ZCMC) in Santa Cruz, Zambales, commenced operations in December.
The mine is expected to reach full operational capacity by the first quarter of 2025. ZCMC operates under an Environmental Compliance Certificate, permitting an annual production limit of 1 million wet metric tons.
In Palawan, Berong nickel Corp. (BnC) is preparing to restart production through its Long Point mine in Aborlan, which is in the final stages of securing its mineral production sharing agreement.
“Our two new mines, ZCMC and B n C ’s Long Point, mark a long-anticipated step forward for DMCI Mining. With increased production capacity and the Long Point port nearing completion, we are confident in
delivering improved operational and financial performance this year,” DMCI Mining President Tulsi Das C. Reyes said. In 2024, DMCI Mining invested P634 million in capital expenditures and plans to allocate P400 million in additional investments in 2025 to support the expansions.
“We’re targeting a combined annual production capacity of 3 million WMT from our three mines, including Zambales Diversified Metals Corp. [ZDMC], subject to the approval of necessary permits for Long Point,” Reyes said.
BnC ’s Quezon, Palawan mine was fully depleted in 2021. Rehabilitation efforts began in 2022 and remain on track for completion by 2027 under the six-year program.
DMCI Mining, a wholly owned subsidiary of publicly-listed DMCI Holdings Inc., extracts nickel ore through surface mining. The company ships nickel ore directly to markets in China and other countries. Its assets include Berong nickel in Palawan and Zambales Diversified Metals Corp. and Zambales Chromite Mining Co.
Banking&Finance
BSP orders pawnshops to post liquidity status
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
PAWNSHOPS nationwide are required to have a reporting system in place to report both business-as-usual and stressed conditions to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
The order is contained in the newly released BSP Circular 1208, which amends regulations on reporting guidelines to be followed by pawnshops. Failure to meet the guidelines shall merit sanctions, Circular 1208 warns.
The BSP requires all pawnshops to submit complete, accurate, consistent, reliable, and timely reports to the central bank. These reports should also be reviewed and validated prior to submission to the central bank.
“All pawnshops are given one year from the effectivity of this Circular. to make the necessary preparations to their systems and processes. This will ensure full compliance with the establishment of an effective reporting system and the remaining provisions of this Section. This period of preparation shall be treated as observation period,” the BSP said.
“Imposition of applicable sanctions for non-compliance with the reporting standards shall commence with reports falling due after the end of the observation period,” added the central bank.
To comply with these reporting standards, pawnshops must put in place a system that will generate accurate, complete and reliable information as required by the BSP and other regulatory bodies both in business-asusual and stressed conditions.
The pawnshops must also aggregate all material data across their various business lines, services, activities, and entities, if they belong to a group. The BSP also said pawnshops must also produce in a timely manner, regular, on-demand and ad hoc reports required by BSP and other regulatory bodies.
“Stressed conditions shall refer to emergency conditions for pawnshops. These include crises, national or public health emergencies, or di-
SY-LED BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) has forged a partnership with Ashikaga Bank Ltd. (ABL) to support Japanese firms establish or expand their operations in the Philippines.
In a statement, BDO said the business alliance agreement through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ABL will help enable Japanese companies to thrive in the Philippines’ diverse market. Through the MOU, BDO can provide banking support services to Japanese business entities who are ABL customers who have existing operations or plan to build or expand their business in the country.
“BDO offers a multicultural team of relationship managers and advisors who possess extensive international and local banking experience,” BDO said.
sasters caused by natural or humaninduced calamities that disrupt operations or result in abrupt closure or relocation of offices or branches,” the BSP clarified. According to the central bank, an effective reporting system means pawnshops must have a management information system that is commensurate to the nature and complex operations of their establishments.
The system must support pawnshops reporting requirements; allows for internal review and validation of reports; electronic transmission of data and reports; secure client information and adhere to the data privacy act; and maintain a database for storing information.
The BSP defined possible violations that merit sanctions such as erroneous reports; delayed reports; and unsubmitted reports. The monetary penalties can range anywhere from P60 for each day of delay to as high as P500 per day of delay in compliance.
There are nine primary reports to be submitted including: Statement of Condition (SOC); EPFS Transactions and Indicators; Statement of Income and Expenses; and Report on Suspicious Transactions, among others. Failure to submit these will be slapped with a penalty of P300 to P500 per day of delay in submission, depending on the classification of pawnshops.
There are 14 secondary documents required to be submitted by pawnshops. These include Audited Financial Statements, together with attachments; Report on Crimes/ Losses; IT Profile Report; and, Reportable Major Cyber-Related Incidents, among others.
A pawnshop operator who fails to submit these documents will be slapped with a penalty of P60 to P300 per day of delay in submission, depending on the classification of pawnshops.
However, the BSP said failure to submit reports due to “fortuitous events” such as fire, natural calamities, and public disorders such as strike and lockout, among others shall not be considered “willful delay of submission of reports.”
BDO noted that it established its Japan Desk in 2007, which has grown to include Japanese speaking personnel. These personnel are dedicated to market and service Japanese companies operating in the Philippines as well as serve the retail needs of Japanese customers.
ABL, meanwhile, is a leading regional bank based in Tochigi Prefecture, and is the 17th Japanese bank which has partnered with BDO. With 134 branches including satellite offices and commercial banking services, ABL has been keeping the major market share in the region.
“Incorporated in 1895 with over 70,000 corporate clients, ABL expects to grow its roster of customers in the Philippines with new investments and business matching deals,” BDO said.
BDO is the country’s largest bank in terms of total assets, loans, deposits and trust funds under management.
The Bank has a distribution network with over 1,700 consolidated operating branches and more than 5,700 ATMs nationwide, and 16 international offices in Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East.
The Bank also offers extensive digital banking solutions to make banking easier, faster, and more secure for its clients. Cai U. Ordinario
Govt to allow public to bid for assets being privatized
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Privatization and Management Office (PMO), an attached agency of the Department of Finance (DOF), is set to publish the approved guidelines allowing anybody to make unsolicited offers to dispose of over 28,000 state-owned assets.
In a recent news briefing with reporters, Finance Undersecretary for Privatization and Corporate Affairs Catherine L. Fong said the “Guidelines on the Privatization and Disposition of Government Assets” have been approved and will be published in the Official Gazette next month. The guidelines include provisions
that allow the submission of unsolicited proposals, negotiated sales, direct purchases by present occupants of the residential properties and accreditation of real estate brokers to assist in the sale of the properties. According to Fong, there are over 28,000 titles in the PMO database, mostly small assets measuring about
TBy VG Cabuag @villygc
Manulife
HE
Investment Management and Trust (MIMT) Corp. believes the equity markets in Asia started the year with high levels of uncertainty driven by geopolitical headwinds, leadership transitions, a shift in the interest rate environment and fiscal constraints.
Such uncertainties call for investors to navigate the winding roads with caution, and put a focus on stock selection and the provisioning of diversification opportunities across Asia, read a document prepared by MIMT.
“For the Asean (Association of
THE Metropolitan Bank & Trust
Co. (Metrobank) announced that its Financial Markets Sector “has once again demonstrated its expertise in securities trading and investment and wealth management as it recently received recognitions from the government and local and international awardgiving bodies.:
According to the lender, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) named Metrobank as the “Top Market Maker for 2024,” during the BTr’s 127th anniversary celebration where it recognized top partners for securities trading. This is the fourth straight year that Metrobank received this award, highlighting its efforts in helping the national government meet its financing requirements and supporting the Treasury’s initiatives in enhancing Filipinos’ access to investment opportunities.
Further affirming the Bank’s investment and wealth management expertise and unparalleled market insights, it also recently received accolades from the Fund Managers’ Association of the Philippines (FMAP) and the CFA Society Philippines. The bank also received recognition from regional finance publications, a statement issued by the lender read.
T200 square meters, which are not for the government to market anymore having no marketing arm to do so.
These, the DOF official said, would be made available “for ordinary Filipinos, for overseas Filipino workers” to buy.
“Basically a lot of these assets are in the province. We are looking into Filipinos buying their own home or properties,” Fong added.
If the government properties already have informal settlers, it would be harder for the government to dispose so if they would like to acquire the land, Fong said they can make an offer to PMO.
“The idea is to just post the database online and anybody can bid. Just write a letter with the offer,” Fong said.
However, offers will be published so prospective proponents can challenge the unsolicited proposals, an approach applied to public-private partnership (PPP) projects.
Southeast Asian Nations) region, the governments are putting forth domestic policies to support domestic economic growth and FDI (foreign direct investments) growth. Banks, healthcare and consumer staples companies are some of the areas that should benefit,” Kenglin Tan, the company’s senior portfolio manager for equities, said.
According to Tan, there will be thematic investments in artificial intelligence, technology and advanced manufacturing will drive growth in Asia equities, with key opportunities in South Korea, Taiwan and Asean markets.
According to MIMT, global inflationary pressures are moderating,
central banks all over the world are adopting easing measures to stabilize growth.
“However, inflation remains uneven across regions, with lingering challenges from sticky core inflation in developed markets and supply chain disruptions in emerging markets,” read a briefing paper by MIMT.
Luke Browne, MIMT senior portfolio manager and head of asset allocation for Asia, said this year is already shaping up to be an exciting year for investments.
“With global developed markets entering an interest rate-cutting cycle, markets have begun pricing in aggressive cuts, which have been scaled back more recently.
At the recently held 2024 FMAP Awards Night, Metrobank was named as the “Best Fixed Income House” in the country for the second consecutive year. Metrobank executives also brought home titles and were recognized as the best among peers in various categories of fixed-income and foreign exchange strategy and trading.
Meanwhile, the CFA Society Philippines awarded Metrobank Trust for the outstanding performance of two of its UITFs relative to peers.
In the region, Metrobank’s Trust
“This is an innovation because, for the first time, we’re allowing unsolicited proposals,” Finance
Banking Group emerged as the “Best Asset Manager” for the “Country Specific Equity and Income Oriented “Funds category and as the “Best Fund with the Optimal Information Ratio” by an international publication.
“The publication underscored Metrobank Trust Banking Team’s outstanding investment competency and unparalleled market insights amidst a fast grow-
Ralph G. Recto said. The PMO more than doubled its revenue collections in 2024, raising P4.440 billion from P1.941 billion in 2023, from its disposition efforts. This year, the government aims to generate P101 billion from privatization, twice its P42.1
The final scale and pace of these adjustments will depend on how resilient economies prove to be, how persistent inflation remains, and whether we encounter risk-off periods or episodes of re-inflation,” Browne said. He added that global easing cycle already underway, over half of central banks have initiated rate cuts, presenting new opportunities in developed and emerging markets.
“Alongside this, deglobalization and ’friendshoring’ trends are reshaping global trade patterns, creating new opportunities for selective investments in regional leaders and thematic areas such as AI and clean energy,” he said.
ing asset management industry in the Philippines,” read the lender’s statement. “It noted the good performance of the equity and fixed-income portfolios managed by Metrobank Trust, and pointed out the continued growth of
The Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. Financial Markets Sector has received multiple recognitions from the government and local and international award-giving bodies. In photo (from left): Bureau of the Treasury Deputy Treasurers eduardo Anthony G. Mariño III and Ma. Nanette C. Diaz; Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto; National Treasurer Sharon P. Almanza; Deputy Treasurer Kenneth Ian A. Francisco; Metrobank 2024 head of Treasury Rommel enrico C. Dionisio; and, Metrobank head of Trading John Christopher C. Lu. CREDIT: METRopolITan Bank & TRusT Co.
Health& Fitness
Expert urges national lung cancer screening guidelines for Filipinos
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
Amedical expert empha -
sized the critical need for the establishment of national guidelines and screening strategies especially for lung cancer tailored to Filipinos’ unique epidemiological landscape.
d r c h ita i Nazal- m a tunog, president of the Philippine Society of m ed ical Oncology, highlighted how an absence of comprehensive screening programs puts Filipino patients at a disadvantage, often limiting them to late-stage diagnosis, when curative options are no longer viable.
“Smoking is the cause of about 85 to 90 percent of lung cancer. a n d screening guidelines are recommended, especially in a m erica and e u rope, with the use of low-dose c T s cans so that we can catch patients who are highrisk for lung cancer,” said d r m atunog.
She explained that the definition of high-risk patients are those with a smoking history of more than 30 years and 50 to 75 years old.
“However, if we notice the incidence of lung cancer nowadays, there is a rise in the incidence of neversmokers who are having lung cancer. So, if we limit the screening guidelines to those who are smokers aged 50 to 75 years old, we will miss about 30 percent of lung cancer patients who are never-smokers,” added d r m a tunog.
Never-smokers
S H e said these “never-smokers” were probably exposed to other risk factors like second-hand smoke, indoor or household air pollution, and outdoor air pollution.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says “household air pollution is generated by the use of inefficient and polluting fuels and technologies in and around the home that contains a range of health-damaging pollutants, including small particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.”
WHO also reports that household air pollution exposure leads to noncommunicable diseases including stroke, ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (c O P d) a nd lung cancer.
Other risk factors for lung cancer include exposure to occupational hazards and a history of chronic lung disease such as tuberculosis.
“We should have our own Filipino
local guidelines for determining who should be screened for lung cancer. This is because the risk factors for lung cancer in a s ians or Filipinos are significantly different. Following only a m erican guidelines might lead to missed screenings and diagnoses in asymptomatic never-smokers,” said d r m a tunog.
She added that that is something that researchers have to help us to make our own national screening guidelines.
Elevating Lung Health summit dr. m a tunog was one of the panelists during the health summit titled “ e l evating l u ng Health – a collaborating summit on a s thma, c O P d and l u ng cancer” held last January 15 at e d sa Shangri- l a H otel in m a ndaluyong c ity.
c o ordinated by global science-led pharmaceutical company a s traZeneca, the summit brought sharp focus to the problem and proposed solutions, with experts from the Philippine c o llege of c h est Physicians, Philippine Society of Oncologists, Philippine Society of m e dical Oncology, Philippine a c ademy of Family Physicians, l u ng Health a l liance Philippines ( l u ngH a P), among others.
l ung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or c O P d, a nd lung cancer threaten millions globally, including Filipinos.
“a t a s traZeneca, we have a bold ambition: to eliminate asthma attacks, improve outcomes for c O P d, and address lung cancer as a leading cause of mortality by 2030 through earlier diagnoses and innovative care. Progress is possible when we unite our efforts, and this summit stands as a powerful testament to our shared commitment to building a healthier future for Filipinos,” said d r c y ril Tolosa, m e dical a f fairs d i rector at a s traZeneca Philippines.
“For those living with these conditions, the burden often extends far beyond physical symptoms—it affects their emotional well-being, their families, and their communities. We are here today because we believe this is unacceptable. a n d we are here because we know that working together makes progress possible,” added d r. Tolosa.
Addressing Barriers to Care
aS i de from the absence of a national lung cancer screening program, d r m a tunog cited significant delays that occur at multiple stages of a patient’s healthcare journey. These delays include the time between symptom onset and seeking appropriate care, the time between consultation and the first diagnostic test, and the time between biopsy and release of result.
“Some patients don’t know that, in every stage, we can do something for them. The best is that when we catch them early, then the goal of treatment is cure,” said d r m a tunog.
a t e very stage, patients experience some barriers. a n d we have to get our act together as doctors if we really want to change the trajectory of how we treat lung cancer,” she added.
d r m a . Janeth Samson, president of the Philippine c o llege of c h est Physicians and head of the i n stitute of Pulmonary m e dicine at St. l u ke’s m e dical c e nter, agreed to this, adding that “ d e spite the advancements in medical science around the world, there remains a significant gap in the early diagnosis and comprehensive care of asthma, c O P d, a nd l u ng c a ncer care in the Philippines.”
a d dressing these gaps requires support systems, increased awareness, and access to attainable diagnostics and rehabilitation services.
c o llaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and the local communities is essential to ensure that no patient is left behind,” said
d r. Samson.
Patient advocacy groups like l u ngH a P ( l u ng Health a l liance of the Philippines) underscored the nonmedical barriers patients face, including financial stress and the stigma of living with lung disease. e n gr. e m er r o jas, l ungH a P President, and lung cancer survivor, spoke about the need to identify champions—be they from government, patient communities, or the medical field—to spearhead the fight against lung diseases.
l u ng disease affects more than just the patient; it impacts families and communities. Financial constraints and stigma are barriers that we must break down together. By partnering with the government, patient communities, and healthcare fields, we can lead the fight against lung disease and create a healthier future for Filipinos,” said d r. Samson.
Promoting Healthy Lung Habits
a key focus of the summit was on p roactive lung health protection. This included strategies like avoiding tobacco, maintaining physical activity, minimizing exposure to air pollutants, and recognizing early warning signs, such as wheezing, persistent coughs, or shortness of breath. The importance of regular health screenings for early detection of potential issues was also underscored.
“Prevention is always better than cure,” said d r. Samson. “av oiding tobacco products, minimizing exposure to air pollutants, staying active, and recognizing early symptoms like persistent cough or shortness of breath can go a long way in protecting lung health. r e gular check-ups and screenings are also vital to catching potential issues before they become severe.”
This collaborative summit emphasized not only the urgency but the opportunity to transform lung health in the Philippines through innovation, awareness, and empathy. d r a n na Guia O. l i mpoco, Board of Trustee member of the Philippine a c ademy of Family Physicians, closed the productive event, with a timely and relevant reminder.
“This summit has shown us the power of collaboration and shared commitment. Together, we can transform lung health in the Philippines through innovation, awareness, and empathy. The road ahead is challenging, but it is also full of potential to make a lasting impact,” said d r l impoco.
By Rory Visco Contributor
The Quezon City government recently launched a community-based cervical cancer screening program as part of the enactment of City Ordinance SP-3285 or the Quezon City Integrated Cancer Control Ordinance (QCICCO) which made the city the first city in the country to establish an integrated cancer control policy.
The local government of Quezon City reiterated that since 2019, the Department of h e alth (DO h) ha d already cascaded cancer prevention programs and services to women, their families, and the communities to local government units. In fact, the Quezon City h e alth Department (QC h D) had already showed that an integrated screenand-treat model to prevent cervical cancer through the use of high-performance tests such as molecular assay and provision of early treatment services in its health centers proved to be viable and feasible.
The program was launched together with Jhpiego (Johns h o pkins Program for International e d ucation in Gynecology and Obstetrics) Philippines, a nonprofit organization for international health affiliated with Baltimore, USA-based Johns h o pkins University, South Star Drug, and Women Wonders for h ealth e mp owerment Network.
Laboratory test
By next month, the h PV DNA, which is a laboratory test that screens for high-risk types of the human papillomavirus ( h PV) to detect cervical cancer and precancerous changes in the cervix, will be made available to Quezon City residents aged 30 to 49 years old. Other cervical cancer screening programs will be made available to the city’s health facilities, including h PV vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 years old, and visual inspection using acetic acid (VIA) and Pap Smear for women 50 years old and above.
Dr. Karen See, QC h D’s Cancer Control Coordinator, said cervical cancer screening has now reached more than 16,000 for 2024, an increase from previous years, perhaps due to the ordinance. At present, screening is being done in the city’s 66 health centers, nine lying-in clinics, and nine sundown and social hygiene clinics.
“We saw an increase of the number of women approaching us for screening after the new ordinance was passed. Of the number screened last year, around 237 turned out to be positive. They got scared when they learned they were positive but we’re doing our best for them to avail of ‘thermal ablation’ (used to destroy pre-cancerous cells), which is free in the city, and also free is when they are referred to a hospital for diagnosis and treatment.”
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
Self-testing kit
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
HOW i mportant is it to have a work-friendly environment for people with disabilities?
Jasmin c o ncepcion, a customer service representative at Foundever®, a global leader in customer experience (c X ) solutions, shared that as a person with a disability, it is very important to have a workplace that value her strength. c o ncepcion said she found a meaningful work and community support at her workplace where they treated each other as family.
Inclusive workplace
cON ce P c i ON S story was a moving, inspiring model of resilience and it demonstrated the powerful, positive impact of having an inclusive environment. Foundever hosted the “ d i sability at Foundever” ( da F ) summit that highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace that supports individuals across the full spectrum of human abilities. The event took place at its location in Tarlac and was streamed online for its associates nationwide.
Geoffrey Que, Senior d i rector of Operations and 2nd c o - c h airperson of d i sability at Foundever, shared his journey of balancing career aspirations with personal responsibilities.
Autism
at Foundever, adding that “initiatives like the human library, help foster understanding and resilience among our associates, empowering them to thrive personally and professionally.” a key feature of the summit was the “human library” segment. This part of the program presented associates who shared powerful personal stories, inspiring greater understanding and empathy within the organization.
He discussed how he is managing life with a child with autism and emphasized the importance of a supportive workplace during challenging times. National a utism c o nsciousness Week is an annual event in the Philippines that takes place during the third week of January.
Que encouraged associates to discover their own “why,” underscoring how inclusivity fosters strong leadership and resilient teams.
Invisible disabilities aB aTayO c andidly shared her experience with invisible disabilities—conditions that can become disabling but are not so obvious to another person. i n her case, she discussed bipolar disorder. She highlighted how leadership support and advocacy can create understanding and foster an inclusive workplace.
i n sharing her story, a b atayo underscored the importance of empathy in supporting colleagues with invisible challenges.
TDr. See mentioned that the h PV DNA test kit is a self-testing kit and will be available by middle of this year. For her part, Carole Malenab, Southstar Drug Corporate Affairs Manager for Drugstore Segment, the self-testing kit will be made more accessible not just in the city’s barangay health center and r e gional h e alth Units but through select Southstar Drug branches during the program’s early stages, and all for free. She added that initially, four South Star Drug outlets such as in Matalino Street in QC, r o binson’s Novaliches, yu seco in Manila and Shopwise Parañaque were chosen to start the screening. City officials also emphasized that when someone turns out to be positive, there’s no need yet to call for a “reunion” among relatives or settle grudges with enemies. “Being positive only means possibility for infection, and if they don’t go for treatment, that would lead to cervical cancer.”
The World h e alth Organization (W h O) in 2023 revealed that around 12 women die of cervical cancer every day in the country, and ranks as the second most common and fourth most common cause of death among women in the 15-44-year-old age group. This disease is also found to be leading in fatality among women living with h u man Immunodeficiency Virus or h I V. High morbidity I T added that every year, around 15 out of every 100,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and more than half o r about 68 percent are more likely to die in the same year of their diagnosis. e x perts have said that the high rate of morbidity is because of low vaccination and screening coverage of girls and women. The lofty rate of mortality, on the other hand, is being blamed on delayed treatment among women and precancerous lesions.
The disease is now seen as a burden and for the past decades, the government has stepped up efforts and other interventions to combat it, now highlighted with the passage of a landmark piece of legislation, r e public Act No. 11215 or the “National Integrated Cancer Control Act” or NICCA. The law ensures “cancer prevention and improvement of cancer survivorship by strengthening essential programs and increasing investments for the entire cancer care continuum.”
This policy also calls for the establishment of a favorable environment by introducing optimal technologies for the prevention of cervical cancer, improvement of early detection rates, and ultimately, the reduction of social, economic, and emotional burden of cervical cancer as a public health problem.
TMC South Luzon kicks off Internal Medicine Residency Training Program
partment of i nter
d
e dicine ( i m ) n ow offers a r e sidency Training Program. This is open to medicine graduates and general physicians who want to undergo specialty training in i nternal m e dicine and apply their clinical expertise to adults’ health continuum; from screening, diagnosing, treating, and health monitoring; from wellness to complex illness, and back to active health and quality life. a p plication and evaluation started last quarter of 2024 and continues as of today. d u ring the initial briefing of applicants, d r e a rl r i chardson Q. c hua, T m c S l c h ief m e dical Officer, emphasized that “T m c S l is an ideal place to begin their journey as a medical specialist because, there is a wide variety of interesting cases and core trainers of various im sub-specialties such as c a rdiology, Pulmonology, Neurology, Gastroenterology, i n fectious d i seases, and others. T m c S l is strategically located within the communities of middle-class to affluent residents, from the young adult to the elderly population. m o reover, the hospital is expanding with new ser -
vice innovations and facility improvements that the medical residents can take advantage of and T m c S l offers a competitive remuneration package.”
Kaagapay sa Paggaling T H e r e sidency Training Program is also
The human library session provided associates a unique opportunity to gain insights into the lives of their peers, while also reinforcing the values of resilience, community support, and advocacy. QC govt launches community-based cervical cancer screening program
European chambers upbeat on 2025 national economic outlook
THE European Chambers’ ninth Joint Economic Briefing provided this year’s outlook and cited investment avenues seen to boost regional linkages with the Philippines.
With the theme: “Driving Economic Momentum and Investment Potential in 2025” staged on January 16, the event was organized by the Belgian-Filipino Business Chamber (BFBC), the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines, French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines, Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, Nordic Chamber of Commerce, and Swiss Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.
Macroeconomic updates and outlook in 2025 noted that inflation is expected to stay within the 2 to 4-percent target range of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, leading to a less restrictive monetary policy. Gov. Eli Remolona earlier stated that the Central Bank is targeting a “Goldilocks” rate, where the key interest rate is “neither too high nor too low” in 2025 after implementing a total of 75 basis point cuts rate since August 2024.
Further driving foreign direct investments is among the key focus of discussion to which Philippine government agencies have continued to support by highlighting their priorities for the year. Usec. Angel Ignacio from the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs has identified priority sectors such as infrastructure, cybersecurity, energy, mining, agriculture and semiconductors, as she noted that “several countries— including the United Kingdom, South Korea, Australia and Sweden—have expressed interests in contributing to the corridor’s development.” “Second,” she furthered, “is the upskilling and reskilling opportunities in cybersecurity… By prioritizing these sectors, we aim to establish a robust economic foundation that attracts domestic and foreign investments.”
The panel discussion centered on the transportation and clean-energy sector which emphasized its current initiatives in enhancing connectivity in the country and opportunities in
renewable energy through various mechanisms known as “investment enablers” by providing certificates, promoting green lanes, implementing ease of doing business and incentivizing investors.
Moreover, Exec. Dir.-Trustee Chris Nelson of BCCP emphasized the need for acting and supporting policy reforms to attract more investors in the country: “Development of key policy reforms serve as a promising step toward a more transparent, efficient and business-friendly environment that encourages foreign investors to engage and choose the Philippines as their primary investment destination
in the region.”
Aside from Ignacio, the event featured speakers and panelists headlined by Usec. Timothy John R. Batan of the Department of Transportation’s Planning and Project Development, Asec. Mylene Celestino Capongcol from the Department of Energy, Atty. Rowena Candice Ruiz who is the executive director of the Government Procurement Policy Board’s Technical Support Office, Exec. Dir. Evariste Cagatan of the Bureau of Investment’s Investment Promotion Services, as well as Senior Vice President and Head of Research Dante Tinga Jr. of Banco De Oro Unibank Inc.
Consul-general thanks archbishop for officiating ‘Sinulog’ mass at Basilica de la Sagrada Familia
THE “Sinulog” Festival took center stage at Barcelona’s iconic Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, with the revered Santo Niño de Cebu at the heart of the celebration during the church’s international mass on January 19.
With the mass celebrated by His Eminence Cardinal Juan José Omella, the event was organized by the Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona and the Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia. It drew over a thousand devotees from around the world who also witnessed the vibrant Sinulog dance performed by members of the community in a powerful expression of faith, cultural heritage, and unity.
The basilica’s rector Rev. Josep Maria Turull and Filipino priests serving in the Spanish city concelebrated the mass.
In her address to the congregation, Con. Gen. Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Filipino community and Barcelona’s Catholic hierarchy for their support in making the event a remarkable success: “[The celebration not only reaffirmed the deep devotion of Filipinos to the Santo Niño, but also strengthened] the bond between our Filipino and Spanish communities.”
In his homily, Cardinal Omella re-
flected on the profound symbolism of the Santo Niño’s small stature where he emphasized that, “despite its modest size, [the Santo Niño] embodies immense spiritual power and serves as a reminder of humility and divine strength.”
He also commended the Filipino community for its unwavering faith and deep connection to their cultural and religious heritage, as he highlighted their devotion as a source of inspiration and unity.
The mass was the Santo Niño’s
second presentation at the Sagrada Familia, following its inaugural presentation on December 5, 2021 during the Quincentennial Commemorations of Christianity’s introduction to the Philippines. More than a thousand people attended the event.
The celebration commenced with a solemn yet joyful procession of the Santo Niño through the historical halls of the Sagrada Familia, where it was met with reverence by attendees. A performance of the tra-
ditional Sinulog dance was one of the event’s high points. The dance embodied the depth of Filipino faith and their enduring devotion to the Santo Niño.
Prayers of the Faithful were delivered in multiple languages such as Filipino, English, Spanish, Italian and Catalan that reflected the event’s inclusive spirit and the global Catholic community’s unity.
At the offertory, emblematic Philippine products were presented as symbols of national culture.
Japan envoy welcomes delegates, guests to environment week event
ON January 14, the Ministry of the Environment of Japan and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) jointly held the “Second Philippines-Japan Environment Week” in Makati City. Amb. Kazuya Endo welcomed the event’s participants, along with Environment secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga and Japan’s state minister of the Environment Fumiaki Kobayashi.
A wide range of stakeholders who included representatives from the governments of Japan and the Philippines, local government units and the private
sector came together to promote a sustainable and resilient society. The program featured a series of presentations and booth exhibits that addressed key topics such as climate-change mitigation, waste management and the circular economy. In his welcome remarks, Endo underscored the vital role of JapanPhilippines cooperation in addressing environmental challenges through advanced environmental technologies. He also expressed his hope that this event would serve as a significant step toward achieving these shared goals.
AHK global survey: Local businesses’ optimism tempered by persistent risks
BUSINESSES engaged in German-Philippine economic ties remain optimistic about their prospects, as highlighted in the latest “AHK World Business Outlook Survey.”
It revealed that the Philippines stands out in Asean and global comparisons, particularly in employment growth, where projections surpass regional and worldwide averages. However, the survey noted significant risks that threaten to undermine this optimism. Rising energy costs, inadequate infrastructure, and ongoing supply chain disruptions emerged as top challenges for local businesses.
The country demonstrated impressive results compared to its regional neighbors and global peers. Employment projections were a standout, with 54 percent of businesses expecting workforce expansion—the highest sentiment globally. Similarly, 44 percent of Philippine respondents reported plans to increase investments, reflecting confidence in the country’s business environment. Satisfaction with the current business situation was also notable, with 55 percent of businesses expressing positive sentiment.
However, while these figures reflect consistent optimism, they are tempered by the Philippines’ lagging performance in global competitiveness rankings. Only 48 percent of businesses reported improved competitiveness over the past five years, trailing regions like the Middle East and North Africa (57 percent), Africa (52 percent), North America (52 percent), and South America (49 percent).
“The AHK World Business Outlook Survey demonstrates the Philippines’ ability to deliver good results, particularly in employment growth and investment intentions, compared to global counterparts,” said Marie Antoniette Mariano who is GPCCI’s president. “However, while this optimism is encouraging, we must remain vigilant in addressing structural chal-
lenges that could hinder sustained progress.”
Persistent risks, challenges DESPITE positive developments, Philippine businesses still face significant challenges. Rising energy prices, infrastructure issues and supply-chain disruptions are among the most pressing concerns. Compared to other Asean member-states, the country showed higher sensitivity to these risks, particularly on energy and commodity costs.
Globally, infrastructure bottlenecks were cited as a more prominent issue for Philippine businesses than for those in other regions.
“Despite the optimistic outlook, businesses in the Philippines face pressing risks such as high energy costs, infrastructure gaps, and supplychain disruptions,” said Dr. Marian Majer who is GPCCI’s board directorPolicy and Advocacy chair. “It is crucial to prioritize policies that enhance energy efficiency, modernize infrastructure and build resilient supply chains to ensure long-term competitiveness and sustainable growth.”
Amid these hurdles, sustainability requirements offer a positive sentiment. Philippine enterprises are leveraging sustainability practices as a competitive advantage, with 43 percent identifying it as a growth driver—slightly higher than the global average of 41 percent. However, relying on sustainability to offset deeper structural challenges underscores the urgent need for reforms to address long-standing issues.
“Sustainability is a defining factor for the future of business…the survey underscores its importance as a driver of competitiveness in the Philippines,” said GPCCI executive director Christopher Zimmer. “We invite everyone to the ‘Sustainability Forum’ on January 31, where we will discuss actionable solutions and opportunities for green jobs, sustainable infrastructure and climate action.”
US, The Asia Foundation to reinforce human-rights groups’ online resilience
COMMEMORATING Human Rights Day, the United States government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and The Asia Foundation, launched last month a P16.8-million ($300,000) initiative that will strengthen Philippine human-rights organizations’ capacity to thwart cybersecurity threats such as doxing, phishing and organized digital attacks.
As part of USAID and The Asia Foundation’s ongoing Initiative for Advancing Community Transformation (I-ACT) project, the “Cybersecurity for Human Rights in the Philippines” (C4HR-PH) initiative will provide tools and training to more than 150 local organizations across the country over 10 months.
The foundation’s cybersecurity experts will work closely with national human-rights coalitions to design and deliver training sessions in risk management, digital-security assessments, phishing awareness, as well as adopting cybersecurity protocols such as multifactor authentication and regular data backups.
The tools and knowledge provided through C4HR-PH will help humanrights defenders conduct their crucial advocacy work, safeguard private data, as well as advance justice and accountability without disruption or retribution.
“Now more than ever, civil society organizations are reliant on technology and the internet to operate and pursue
our advocacies,” said Sheila Formento who is the national coordinator of the Alternative Law Groups—a coalition of organizations that provide legal services to marginalized communities.
“We welcome this partnership as it helps us protect our members who are constantly online and vulnerable to cyberattacks.”
C4HR-PH underscores USAID’s commitment to fostering secure, empowered and resilient organizations that can continue their critical work of promoting human rights and democracy.
“Cyber resilience is not just about protecting data; it [ensures] that democracy defenders can continue their vital work without fear of digital interference,” Acting Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks of USAID Philippines said during the launch event attended by human rights advocates, cybersecurity experts and related stakeholders.
“This initiative reflects [the agency’s] commitment to fostering a safe and open digital space for civil society.”
“Civil society organizations are considered a high-risk community for cyberattacks because they can become under direct threat of malicious attackers, but have limited defense capabilities,” said Country Representative Sam Chittick of The Asia Foundation Philippines.
“This crucial program will give our participants the tools and knowledge to better prevent disruptions, defend themselves, and continue to advance the work that they do.”
EXEC. Dir.-Trustee Chris Nelson of BCCP (from left), Usec. Timothy Batan of DOTr, Asec. Mylene Capongcol of DOE and Exec. Dir. Evariste Cagatan of BOI
OFFICIALS of the Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona with Cardinal Juan José Omella (front row, center)
AMB. Kazuya Endo (from right), Sec. Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga and State Minister Fumiaki Kobayashi.
ACTING mission director Rebekah Eubanks (seated right) speaks to human-rights organizations representatives about USAID’s commitment to supporting their cybersecurity resilience, with Chief of Party Atty. Paolo Camacho (seated from left) and Country Representative Sam Chittick.
Terumo, Zafire allies for PHL healthcare upgrade
LEADING global manufacturer of medical devices, Terumo Marketing Philippines Inc. and Philippines’ trusted healthcare solutions provider, Zafire Distributors Inc., teamed up to elevate the country’s healthcare during the TMPI & ZDI contract signing ceremony last January 13, 2025 at Hotel Okura Manila, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City.
With the title, “Shared Vision, Shared Success,” the partnership aims to boost the Philippines healthcare system and contribute positive effects among Filipino patients through Terumo’s global expertise in medical technology and
Zafire’s established local presence to offer cutting-edge healthcare solutions among consumers. Zafire Distributors Inc. President Michelangelo J. Chebat expressed the alliance’s dedication to its promise of delivering high-quality and reliable healthcare products and services.
“The significance [of the partnership] is quite remarkable because a lot of Terumo products are not felt by the patients in a lot of places in the Philippines. So what Zafire promises to do is that we will bring these high quality products all over the Philippines and every Filipino is now going to be a beneficiary,” Chebat said.
Terumo key executives President and Country Director Eleanor Lopez, Business Lead Eric Albert Ang, Strategic Marketing Manager Alex Raye Policarpio and Zafire executives Vice President Samuel Felixberto Lopez, Chief Executive Officer Mary Magdelene Del Rosario, and Business Unit Head Vionaroed Aquino, were all present during the contract signing event.
Amazing experiences await travelers at great Boracay getaway
THE Great Boracay Getaway gives travelers more reasons to go back to the island! Running until February 15, 2025, this exclusive, islandwide promotion offers unbeatable travel bundles, added perks, and unique experiences to gather all hotels, food and dining outlets, wellness providers, and other merchants in Boracay. This special initiative aims to make Boracay an irresistible destination, encouraging longer stays with curated experiences from the moment you arrive to the time you come back.
With a growing number of merchants joining the Great Boracay Getaway, the initiative invites local and international tourists to explore a refreshed and reinvigorated Boracay. Each participating establishment offers curated experiences such as door-to-door travel packages, beachfront room packages, exciting islandhopping adventures, and relaxing spa and massage vouchers not available anywhere else.
Organized by the Boracay MICE Alliance (BMA), this campaign is the result of a collaborative market strategy formulated on November 8, 2024, during a gathering of key stakeholders, including general managers and directors of sales and marketing of hotels and resorts from across the island. The goal is to align efforts in creating exceptional experiences for every traveler stepping foot on Boracay’s shores.
“This is the most beautiful Boracay has ever been. The island has undergone significant rejuvenation since the six months of rehabilitation and its temporary closure during the pandemic. Now, travelers can look forward to a destination that offers endless water activities, vibrant culinary offerings, and the most pristine beaches. There’s much to choose from—and we want the world to know just how excited we are to welcome them back!” said Cleofe Albiso, Chairman of Boracay MICE Alliance.
The Boracay M.I.C.E. Alliance (BMA) is composed of leading private-sector tourism stakeholders in the island with the mission to position Boracay as a premier hub for Meetings,
MIncentives, Conferences, Conventions, and Events (MICE). Known globally as one of the world’s best beaches, Boracay offers MICE organizers and buyers the unique capacity to host both intimate and largescale events in a truly picturesque setting. BMA is a strategic partnership formed by the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, with the support of the Tourism Promotions Board.
Grab exclusive packages and non-expiring vouchers available only during the Great Boracay Getaway. This promotion is registered to the Department of Trade and Industry with permit number FTEB-211386 Series of 2025. Visitors are guaranteed to encounter a side of Boracay they have never seen before.
“We are excited to offer travelers a seamless way to plan their next Boracay getaway. We’re allowing them to conveniently purchase everything they need for their trip, including non-expiring vouchers, all in one platform, which they can use when they book anytime,” Maia Israel, Area General Manager of Boracay Newcoast properties, said. Discover unbeatable deals on room
accommodations with discounts of up to 75 percent during the Great Boracay Getaway, featuring over 100 exclusive packages from nearly 30 top-tier properties in Boracay. These packages come with non-expiring vouchers, giving travelers the freedom to book their dream Boracay escape at their convenience.
Here is the list of participating brands to watch out for: Almon Ink Tattoo, Altabriza Resort Boracay, Alta Vista, Aria Cucina Italiana, Azalea Hotels, B and C, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Boracay Adventures, Boracay Amor Apartments, Boracay Beach Truck, Boracay Grace, Boracay Haven Resort, Boracay Haven Suites, Cafe del Sol, Crimson Boracay, Grand Blue, Hama Japanese Cuisine, Mega Paraw, My Boracay Guide, New Lounge, Ondus, Purple Diaries, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Shore Time Condotel, Shore Time Hotel, and Viaje.
This is more than just a vacation; it is an invitation to discover an island paradise that promises adventure, relaxation, and wonderful memories of the crown jewel of an island of the Philippines. Book your next Great Boracay Getaway, visit Traveloco.ph.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Inasal welcomes 2025 with delicious New Year treats
ANG Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, is turning up the excitement this new year with delicious menu additions and a special first-quarter promo treat that will make customers’ 2025 even more fun! Now available year-round are the popular Ihaw-Sarap Combo Deals, featuring Chicken Inasal and Pork BBQ. These combos come
in two variations: one with Chicken Inasal Paa or Pecho and another with two sticks of Pork BBQ paired with spiced vinegar. Exclusive for dine-in and takeout, both sets come with unlimited rice, soup, and a choice of 8oz. Extra Creamy Halo-Halo or Crema de Leche Halo-Halo, plus a small drink.
“Making the Ihaw-Sarap Combo Deals available yearround is our way of thanking our loyal customers. And these meals bring together the very best of what Mang Inasal is known for — deliciously grilled dishes, unlimited rice, soup, and the perfect dessert,” shared Mike V. Castro, Mang Inasal president. “Expect even more exciting offerings in 2025, catering to all our customers, whether they prefer dining in, taking out, or having their meals delivered. We’ll
Sun Life responds to help typhoon victims in the PHL
SUN Life Financial Inc., with its longstanding commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts, responded to the typhoons that recently hit the Philippines with a donation of CAD$100,000 to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The donation will be used to provide immediate assistance to communities affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon. A total of 3,000 water and hygiene kits, along with more than 15,000 education supplies, have been distributed to affected families as well as students and teachers. These relief goods will provide typhoon victims with access to clean water and health essentials and ensure that the children’s education continues amidst these trying times.
“We are here to support our fellow Filipinos during these challenging times,” says Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “Through this donation, our goal is to positively impact the lives of those in need and reassure them that life will always be brighter under the sun, despite the trials that come their way.”
How
continue to create moments of fun and togetherness, making sure every Mang Inasal experience is filled with Unli-Saya!”
In addition to the Combo Deals, Mang Inasal is offering the first quarter Ihaw-Sarap Treats until March 31, 2025 at all Mang Inasal stores nationwide. Choose from three exciting treats: P20 drinks with any Chicken Inasal Large Unli-Rice meal, a free 8oz. Extra Creamy Halo-Halo for every two Chicken Inasal Large Value Meal Unli-Rice meals, or free Unli-Rice with every Chicken Inasal Large Value Meal plus 8oz. Extra Creamy Halo-Halo. These offers are valid only for dine-in transactions. Customers can easily access the digital coupons on the Mang Inasal website and present them at the counter — either in their original form or as a screenshot on their phone — to claim the treats. Want more Mang Inasal exclusives right NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, order through manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!
With headquarters in Toronto, Sun Life operate in key markets worldwide including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Bermuda.
Meanwhile, the Sun Life FinancialPhilippines Foundation, Inc. (Sun Life Foundation), Sun Life Philippines’ philanthropic arm, distributed 900 food packs as part of its mobilization for relief efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon Kristine. Moreover, an addition of 1,174 families in Catanduanes likewise benefitted from the relief efforts to alleviate the effects of super typhoon Pepito. The relief goods included five kilograms of rice and eight pieces of canned goods.
As a purpose-driven company, Sun Life takes great pride in helping people around the world achieve lifetime financial security and lead healthier lives. The company believes in directing its efforts towards creating brighter lives for its clients, stakeholders, and the wider community.
‘Better Boneless’ Emerged Better, Stronger After Major Challenges
BETTER Boneless, a growing food joint offering boneless chicken snacks and meals, is a testament that overcoming challenges and failures only makes things better. The startup business has literally emerged “better” after a series of setbacks that included issues with venture partners.
“When you’re about to quit, that’s when you need to push a little bit more,” said Cheska Costes, President and CEO of Better Boneless (under MCN Corporation). The 33-year-old entrepreneur has endured so much in the past several years of her entrepreneurial journey, but things are starting to get better.
Cheska started running her own business after completing her Business Administration degree. Among her initial ventures was a home-service massage business, which operated for a few years until the pandemic came. When businesses in general began rebounding during the pandemic, she teamed up with a close relative for a chicken wings business, which was an instant hit during those times.
She then put up her own commissary to supply chicken wings to other business partners when her close relative decided to pull out from the partnership for personal reasons. The biggest blow to the business came when a major partner decided to part ways with her. That was when Cheska and her husband resolved to be on their own, rebranded, and focused on selling boneless chicken instead of chicken wings. “We did not want to create any conflict with our former business partners. We thought it would be better for all of us if we shift our focus so as not to compete with them,” she recalls.
Better Boneless was established in 2022 and now has four locations: in Project 4 and Culiat, Tandang Sora in Quezon City and in Gastambide and Espana in Manila. The network is starting to grow, thanks to effective marketing strategies and word-of-mouth recommendations from actual customers.
Better Boneless has minimized its inventory to focus on boneless chicken wraps, burgers, rice meals, and poppers. With its better management of inventory and a mouth-watering variety of entries in its menu, Better Boneless is set to conquer the still growing market of chicken lovers not just in the metro but hopefully in other parts of the country in the future.
Among its most notable menu favorites are the creamy and saucy Boneless Garlic Parmesan Alfredo and the Spicy Butter that tastes like the popular Buffalo chicken with a striking balance of sweetness, saltiness, and spice. The most popular in its menu is the Chicken Burrito Wrap, which surprisingly is a hit for customers of all ages, especially the senior citizens.
“Better Boneless is confident about its menu, which includes a wide variety that our customers would not run out of something to try out and something to keep
coming back for,” said Cheska. “Our burgers and rice meals are logically
AN exciting parasailing adventure in Boracay.
Parentlife
CITY BRINGS FAMILIES TOGETHER FOR LUNAR FIESTA TO REMEMBER
CELEBRATE the season of renewal and usher in good fortune at Solaire Resort Entertainment City ( Gather with loved ones to honor cherished traditions and share heartfelt wishes for a year filled with joy, harmony and prosperity. Whether you’re celebrating the Korean Seollal, the Filipino love for festive gatherings, or Lunar New Year traditions from across Asia, Solaire offers a remarkable celebration filled with indulgence and unforgettable experiences.
Uncover what the Year of the Wooden Snake holds for you with exclusive fortune readings by renowned Feng Shui Master Clement Chan Ting Bong. Witness the awe-inspiring Dragon and Lion dance by the Myanmar Long De Chuan Ren Dragon and Lion Dance Association at the porte-coch on January 29—a performance that embodies the festive energy of the Lunar New Year and welcomes prosperity and protection. The celebrations continue throughout the resort with world-class entertainment, creating an atmosphere of joy, unity and celebration.
Dining at Solaire becomes a festive journey that blends flavors and traditions from across the region. At Red Lantern, guests can enjoy an exclusive à la carte menu, dim sum buffet, and set menu, all crafted to delight the senses. Begin your meal with the “Yu Sheng” prosperity toss, symbolizing abundance and unity. Signature dishes like steamed Boston lobster, stir-fried wagyu beef, steamed live grouper, roasted whole suckling pig, and sliced Peking duck are artfully prepared and plated to perfection. The premium dim sum selection, including crystal skin lobster dumplings and deepfried cheese and prawn spring rolls, adds an indulgent touch to the dining experience.
For those who wish to share the joy of the season with loved ones, Solaire offers Lunar New Year gift hampers filled with festive favorites. These luxurious hampers feature a range of treats such as baked mango biscuits, tangerine peel five grains, premium red wine, God of Wealth-shaped Tikoy, Chinese yam oatmeal, Bird’s Nest Sugar Rock, and ready-toeat black truffle abalone. The hampers come in three options: Fortune Delights (P6,888), Tastes of Fortune (P12,888), and the Grand Fortune Box (P88,888), making them perfect gifts for family, friends, or business associates.
The celebration continues at Fresh International Buffet, where diners can savor a selection of dishes that embody the essence of the season. Highlights include roasted pork belly, poached pork and vegetable dumplings, deep-fried Tikoy Nian Gao,” baked Chinese snow buns with BBQ honey pork, and wok-fried noodles. At the Treasure Pot station, guests can enjoy rich casseroles filled with sea treasures, poultry, and vegetables, including mussels with black moss, mushrooms, roasted pork, poached chicken, and roasted duck—each dish thoughtfully prepared to capture the flavors of prosperity and celebration.
For a more intimate celebration, House of Zhou presents a Lunar New Year menu available on January 28 and 29. The special offerings include steamed tiger prawns with glass noodles, claypot braised pork balls, stir-fried mixed seafood with oyster sauce, and homemade Chinese cabbage dumplings. To complete the meal, guests can indulge in a special rice cake for dessert—a sweet note to end the feast.
To make the festivities even more memorable, Solaire offers a luxurious staycation package for families. Guests can book a Sky Studio inclusive of breakfast for two adults and two children (up to 12 years old) and receive P2,000 worth of F&B credits at the Pool Bar. It’s the perfect way to unwind, recharge, and enjoy quality time with loved ones while reveling in the festive spirit. Whether you’re welcoming the Lunar New Year through Korean, Filipino, or Chinese traditions, Solaire invites everyone to experience a celebration filled with joy, luck, and memories that last a lifetime.
The lasting joy I found in my yellow home
LAST weekend, I returned to my alma mater, St. Pedro Poveda College, for a seminar for godparents of the Sacrament of Confirmation. My husband was very honored to be the future godfather of Alyssa. Walking through the familiar halls brought back a flood of memories, but what touched me most was seeing young mass servers—acolytes—in an exclusive girls’ school. This moment resonated deeply with me because, back in my day, I had the honor of founding the Povedan Acolytes under the inspiration and guidance of our Christian Life teacher, Mr. Crisostomo.
This year marks 30 years since my batch graduated from Poveda, and the homecoming was a chance to reflect on how those two pivotal years shaped me. It was just five years ago when we celebrated our 25th homecoming, where I was honored to share a few words in the program: “Poveda is a big part of my advocacy’s roots and its future. It was Poveda’s evernurturing Ms. Sally Villavicencio who pushed me to finish my education course here and pass my LET exam. The great memories I made with my teachers and classmates inspire me to ensure that child education remains as enriching as what I experienced in my Yellow Home.”
A ROCKY START IN August 1993, I came home from New York for what I thought was just a summer break. I was set to return for my junior year but circumstances changed, and I
found myself enrolling at Poveda for my last two years of high school. I struggled with the decision—leaving behind plans, promises, and a school where I had already begun to thrive. On top of that, I had to catch up on an entire semester’s worth of schoolwork.
I still remember my first day at Poveda, dressed in the iconic yellow-checkered uniform. I told myself to keep my head down, focus on my studies, and avoid distractions. But fate had other plans. Camille Macapanpan invited me to lunch and introduced me to her “barkada.” Slowly, my classmates helped me feel at home. At first, I was hesitant to open up. Coming from a co-ed school with a different culture, Poveda felt like a whole new world. But as the months went by, I realized I was surrounded by a community that genuinely cared. By the time we had our retreats at the Poveda House of Prayer, I had learned to let my guard down, be vulnerable, and embrace the authentic friendships I have been gifted.
FRIENDS FOR LIFE
MY “barkada” became my rock—Kends, Chris, Chin, Pia, and Maika. Together, we called ourselves Amies Pour Jamais” (Friends Forever). We faced fears, celebrated joys, and supported each other through life’s challenges.
These friendships remain a cornerstone of my life, even 30 years later.
One memory that stands out is when we all came together during one of the most dangerous times in college to support Kends. It was a moment that reaffirmed the strength of our bond. Today, we continue to support each other even if we are thousand miles away from each other.
LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
POVEDA’S approach to education was unlike anything I had experienced before. Beyond traditional classes, there was Individual Work (IW), where we explored lessons creatively. Whether composing sonnets for Shakespeare or embodying characters from Canterbury Tales, Poveda encouraged us to
Aging well means having good balance. Here’s how to prioritize it
TAKING a shower. Grocery shopping. Moving around the kitchen. Getting dressed. The underappreciated link between these mundane activities is good balance, which geriatricians say is key to maintaining an independent lifestyle as we age. Lacking balance can be dangerous. In the US, 3 million older people seek medical care for fall-related injuries each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. But falls are not inevitable, said Roopa Anmolsingh, a geriatrician who created the Cleveland Clinic’s balance classes.
“Some people have a misconception that part of getting old is that you’re going to fall. That’s not true,” Anmolsingh said. “You can control how you fall, or if you fall.”
To prevent falls, geriatricians say people should start asking themselves questions about their balance as early as 50 years old.
DO I EVER FEEL UNSTEADY?
BESIDES muscles and bones, other systems in the body can affect balance, so it’s important to have a doctor check you if you ever feel unsteady, even if only occasionally. The cause could be related to blood pressure, a
medication, inner-ear function, a nervous system issue or countless other potential problems. Even if unsteadiness is not an issue, you can determine whether you still might need an intervention with an easy at-home assessment. Standing next to a wall or something that can lend support if needed, raise one leg. If you can balance on each leg for 10 seconds, you should be fine, said Greg W. Hartley, a University of Miami professor of physical therapy specializing in geriatrics.
“If you can’t do that, then you should probably go see a physical therapist,” he said.
Another assessment, which Hartley recommended doing supervised, is called TUG, for “timed up and go.” Sit in a chair and start a timer when you stand. Walk 10 feet (3 meters), come back and stop the timer upon sitting back down. If it takes longer than 15 seconds, the risk for a fall is very high. Twelve seconds or less, the likelihood of a fall is almost zero.
The National Council on Aging offers an online resource to assess the risk of a fall with questions about medications, whether you worry about falling and if you have trouble stepping over a curb, among others.
think outside the box.
Opportunities to lead and grow were abundant.
In my senior year, I was surprised when Katrina Odi encouraged me to run for Class President even only after one year of being in Poveda. With her support and that of my classmates, I took on that special role that still fills me with great gratitude for their trust in me.
Teachers like Señora Villanueva, Mr. Cedre, and Mr. Crisostomo left lasting impressions. Señora Villanueva, who guided me through Saturday Spanish remedials, inspired my dream of studying at Instituto Cervantes in Madrid.
Mr. Cedre nurtured my love for Filipino by allowing me to write and direct my own play, Salamin. And Mr. Crisostomo encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone by founding the Povedan Acolytes.
GRATITUDE AND LEGACY
ONE of the most profound moments came during the wake of Señora Villanueva decades after I graduated. It was there that I learned how much my teachers had advocated for me behind the scenes, ensuring I was accepted into Poveda and recognized for my achievements despite only being there for two years at the time. I was privileged enough to be given the A.Y. Foundation and Gerry Roxas Foundation awards during my senior year. Hearing our principal Ms. Cometa say, “We fought for you,” brought me to tears. Poveda was more than a school; it was a home that welcomed, nurtured, and transformed me. It taught me that true education goes beyond academics—it’s about fostering compassion, resilience, and a sense of purpose.
As I walked through the halls last weekend, I couldn’t help but hope that my children, and all children, have the chance to experience the kind of transformative education and friendships I found in my yellow home.
Here’s to celebrating the past, embracing the present, and shaping the future, Poveda style. n
WHAT CAN I DO TO IMPROVE BALANCE?
BECAUSE muscle mass begins to decline in most people during their 30s, geriatricians say the best way to preserve good balance is to stay physically active throughout life. But it’s never too late to start prioritizing it, Anmolsingh said. Tai chi and yoga are particularly good for
older adults because they involve controlled movements while shifting body weight. There also are individual exercises people can work into their everyday lives.
Anmolsingh
PHOTO
B8 Thursday, January 23, 2025
mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
Editor: Jun Lomibao
Aguilar leads young Siddayao honorees in PSA Awards Night
Tabuena, Que confident, calm as PHL Open unfurls
By Aldrin Quinto
ACTHREE-TIME jiu-jitsu world champion and a gold medalist in the world wushu championships are some of the prominent athletes who will receive Tony Siddayao Awards in Monday’s San Miguel Corp.-Philippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Awards Night at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel. Aleia Aielle Aguilar and Alexander Gabriel de los Reyes lead the compact list of athletes to be recognized with the award named after the late former Manila Standard sports editor, Antonio “Tony” Siddayao, regarded as the Dean of Philippine sports writing. The five other awardees in the formal affair presented by ArenaPlus, Cignal and MediQuest are fencer Sophia Shekaina Catantan, swimmers Jamesray Mishael Ajido and Behrouz Mohammad Mojdeh and wrestlers Paul Sondrie Capinig and Marian Grace Balisme. All awardees will receive medals and jackets from Milo. Grandmaster Wesley So, basketball star Kiefer Ravena, Olympians Miguel
Shigeoka hones for title rematch at Elorde’s gym
FBy Josef Ramos
ORMER world champion Yudai Shigeoka is on a reconnaissance mission in the country but after getting to spar with Filipinos his size at least for the past three days, he’s started to love the culture.
“The hospitality,” Shigeoka, who lost his World Boxing Council minimum weight world title to Filipino Melvin Jerusalem in March last year in Japan, told BusinessMirror through an interpreter during dinner with international matchmaker Sean Gibbons in a Makati City hotel on Wednesday.
“ The food, too, I love it,” added Shigeoka, who enthusiastically gorged on whatever local food that was served to him. Shigeoka is in town primarily to train with Filipino boxers in his weight class at the Elorde Sports Complex in Sucat as he prepares for his March 30 title rematch with Jerusalem.
“There are many great fighters in small weight classes in the Philippines and I want to find out how they fight and train,” said the 27-year-old native of Kumamoto prefecture now based in Tokyo. “I want to experience fighting boxers my size to improve myself as a fighter.”
“It is important for me to get out of my comfort zone to get better,” he added.
S higeoka thanked Cucuy Elorde for helping him train at Elorde’s where he met current International Boxing
Tabuena and Dottie Ardina and even Paris Olympics bronze medalist Eumir Marcial were some of the past recipients of the award given to young achievers in the ceremony supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, PLDT/Smart and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go and backed by the Philippine Basketball Association, Premiere Volleyball League, 1-Pacman Party List, Rain or Shine, Akari and AcroCity. Aguilar, the charming daughter of Universal Reality Combat Championship founder and wrestling association president Alvin Aguilar, became a threetime world champion at age 7 when she bagged the gold medal in the 22-kg class of the World Festival Jiu-Jitsu Championships in Abu Dhabi. Similarly winning the gold in the 9th World Junior Wushu Championships in Brunei was the 17-year-old De los Reyes, who ruled the boys’ taijishan event. Catantan, 13-year-old sister of Paris Olympian Sam Catantan, did the same in the 5th Southeast Asia Pacific Fencing Championship by netting the gold in the junior women’s foil individual event. Ajido and Mojdeh made their presence felt in the pool with Balisme and Capinig doing their own statements on the wrestling mat. Ajido topped the boys’ 12-14 100-meter butterfly in the 11th Asian Age Group Swimming Championships at the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas, while Mojdeh, from the family of swimming champions, won golds in the 200m backstroke at the Asian Open School Invitational Long Course Swimming Championships in Bangkok. Capinig triumphed in the 51-kg freestyle of the Southeast Asia Oceania Wrestling Championships in Thailand as Balisme topped the women’s freestyle 61-kg class in the same tournament.
Federation minimum weight champion Pedro Taduran. Taduran beat his elder brother, Ginjiro, via ninth-round technical knockout, last July to become a twotime world champion. We just met and said hi to each other, but we did not talk and spar,” said Shigeoka who’ll be in town for two weeks. “But I was able to spar against different Filipinos and it feels so good.”
Shigeoka’s loss to Jerusalem (23-3 win-loss record with 12 knockouts), who inflicted Shigeoka his first loss in 10 bouts, is currently training in General Santos City for the fight at a still to be determined venue. We’ll decide soon where the title rematch will be held, but it will be in Japan,” said Gibbons, president of the MP Promotions of soon-to-be Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao.
ARMONA, Cavite—The battle begins on a Manila Southwoods Masters Course touted as long and tough with an elite Asian Tour field vying for honors and with Miguel Tabuena and Angelo Que approaching the Smart Infinity Philippine Open with calm and confidence.
The last Filipino to claim an Asian Tour title at the Delhi Golf Club in 2023, Tabuena has demonstrated remarkable composure in high-stakes situations and is determined to deliver once more on a course set up to challenge the region’s cream of the crop.
“I love playing in difficult courses because it separates the better players from the elite players,” Tabuena said on Wednesday after his final go-round at the Jack Nicklaus-designed Masters Course.
The 7,200-yard course is playing as a par-70 for the first time with a par 5 in each nine reconfigured to par 4s.
“It will be a problem for some,” Tabuena said. “Players who aren’t long off the tee will have trouble especially with the rough being this long.”
Play starts on Thursday with Tabuena teeing off with reigning Indonesia Open champion Steve Lewton of England and the US’s Chase Koepka, younger brother of LIV Golf star Brooks.
Tabuena was 20 when he bagged his first Philippine Open title at Luisita in 2015 for his first Asian Tour trophy and again showcased his brilliance with at The Country Club in 2018 with the tournament played on the OneAsia Tour calendar.
As the Philippine Open returns to the Asian Tour, as its season-opener to boot, the spotlight again shines on Tabuena, now 30, married and with a one-year-old daughter tougher and wiser.
“I enjoy the pressure, I welcome it,”
MELBOURNE, Australia—
Iga Swiatek is dominating her Australian Open opponents the way no one has at Melbourne Park since Maria Sharapova in 2013.
S wiatek’s latest lopsided win came via a 6-1, 6-2 score in the quarterfinals against No. 8 seed Emma Navarro on Wednesday.
The No. 2-seeded Swiatek not only has not dropped a set so far in the tournament, but also has lost a grand total of only 14 games as she seeks her first title at Melbourne Park and sixth Grand Slam trophy overall. Sharapova was the last woman to reach the Australian Open semifinals having dropped fewer than 15 games.
She does everything with 100 percent conviction and intensity,” Navarro said about Swiatek. “She has a different style of movement and play. It’s tough to not be sort of affected by that and not feel like, ‘OK, I have to do everything at the same speed that she’s
he said. “Some people sort of avoid the pressure but I believe that pressure is a privilege no matter what you’re doing because it will elevate your game in a way.”
“I’ve dealt with pressure all my life, since I turned pro. I think I can handle it better, I am still learning how to handle it, especially during a home event like this but I have to treat every week like any other week, or else my preparation becomes different,” he added.
Que as sentimental favorite ANGELO QUE is a fan favorite, being the only other player in this field who has won the Philippine Open as part of the Asian Tour.
A nd even as he shrugs off expectations, underscoring the fact he is battling players half his age, he remains in the conversation as a top contender on the elite stage having proven on the domestic tour that he still has what it takes.
Of course there’s still a little bit of pressure but that’s part of it, you just need to know how to handle it,” said the 46-year-old Que, who starts with Christopher Hickman of the US and Rahil Gangjee of India.
“I t’s a plus that we’re playing here at the Manila Southwoods, my home course,” he said. “I’ve been here for 26 years it’s home.”
He added: “The pressure is there but I won’t think much about it.”
Tabuena, seventh on the Asian Tour Order of Merit last season after a second-place finish the year before, noted that he also expects other Filipinos to step up and take advantage of the Philippine Open being revived after a five-year hiatus.
“Not only for me but for all the Filipino golfers, to have the Philippine Open back on the Asian Tour is very special,” Tabuena said. “Hopefully we’ll keep
doing it.’ So that was something, for sure, I felt a little bit today.”
S wiatek will face No. 19 Madison Keys of the US on Thursday night for a berth in the final.
The other women’s semifinal is No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, against her good friend, No. 11 Paula Badosa.
K eys, whose best showing at a major was getting to the title match at the 2017 US Open, was a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 winner against Elina Svitolina and is into her third semifinal in Australia.
“Iga is tough to beat, because she has a lot of spin, kind of naturally, on both sides. She’s a good server. She’s a good returner. She moves incredibly well,” Keys said. “The biggest thing that makes her so difficult to beat is, because she moves so well, if you miss your spot just slightly, she has enough time to recover, and then the point goes back to neutral.”
The men’s semifinals are Friday, and one matchup was set: Novak Djokovic vs. Alexander Zverev. The last two men›s quarterfinals were being played late Wednesday: No. 1 Jannik Sinner against No. 8 Alex de Minaur, and No. 21 Ben Shelton against unseeded Lorenzo Sonego. AP
the mention of Clyde or Tony’s names would bring smiles and laughter to any conversation. Both spread happy vibes. Both enriched their respective fields in ways both visible and hard to fathom. Like the intangibles of a basketball game. I m et Clyde first, early on in my sports writing days. He was always a welcome addition to any group. His arrival on the scene would make everybody spring up and say, “Si Clyde, si Clyde!”—the usual reaction that a favorite barkada elicits when he finally joins the pack.
He distinguished himself easily with his appearance, wavy hair on top with a full beard around his chin adding some distinction. During the days when the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) hugged the news headlines, Clyde’s arrival
would often be announced as the arrival of, was it Nur Misuari? Or some other Islamic bigshot (or suspected terrorist-ed).
Then he would bask in the fun vibes he would create, say a funny line here and make a witty observation there. Then he’d get lost in the company of his table mates. But when it came to Q and A time, Clyde, or James, would always steal the show. Behind the funny man image he greeted everyone with, he was a darn good reporter. Intelligent. Reflective. And danged hardworking. He was active on the beat even as recently as the recently finished Season 87 basketball tournament of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), where I saw him last. Till his last days he never ditched his trademark facial hair. Why was Clyde called “James”? Because he once said “If you don’t know the first name, call him James,” revealed our BM sports editor Jun Lomibao. His advice went right back at ‘im, it seems. I m et Tony Lu through my buddy, the late Beth Celis, in the mid 1980s. He always had a camera and several media IDs always hanging around his
ALEIA AIELLE AGUILAR is a jiu-jitsu world champion three times over at seven years old.
SEAN GIBBONS (left) with former world champion Yudai Shigeoka.