The amount was higher by 7.26 percent or P689 billion than the P9.487 trillion recorded in December 2023. Retail Treasury Bonds (RTBs) accounted for the bulk of the outstanding T-bonds, with P3.130 trillion still outstanding, at maturities ranging from 2025 to 2037 and carrying coupon rates from 2.6250 percent to 6.1250 percent.
The next biggest chunk of outstanding T-bonds are the 10-year securities, with P2.133 trillion in outstanding T-bonds maturing from 2027 to 2034.
Following the 10-year T-bonds are the 7-year debt papers with P1.550 trillion in outstanding T-bonds at maturities from 2025 to 2031.
Outstanding 5-year T-bonds amounted to P312.188 billion, while outstanding 3-year T-bonds amounted to P181.283 billion. The 3.5-year T-bonds also have P45
See “T-bonds,” A2
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
which employees have little to no control over the demands of their jobs or the resources provided by the management do not adequately compensate for the work that they must undertake in relation to the context or content of their jobs,” ILS noted in its study made public last month.
Workplace discrimination, harassment, and violence also contribute to heightened stress levels.
At least 20 respondents reported experi -
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror
SOUTHEAST Asian countries with visawaiver policies cornered the bulk of outbound Chinese travelers for the long Lunar New Year holiday, which will start on January 28. “Southeast Asian countries are proving popular,” said Nancy Dai, Market Analyst (China) at ForwardKeys, adding that “Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam [are] standout performers, with growths of 41 percent, 26 percent, and 8 percent respectively—compared to their performance in 2019. Relaxed visa policies in these countries have undoubtedly contributed to their appeal.”
While Thailand and Indonesia also showed
year-on-year growth, “they remain slightly behind 2019 figures,” she noted. Similar to 2024, there was no significant number of bookings by Chinese travelers going to the Philippines during the Lunar New Year. Last year, the Philippines attracted only 312,222 tourists from China, some 82 percent less than the 1.7 million who arrived in prepandemic 2019. Malacañang had ordered the suspension of the electronic-visa platform of the Department of Foreign Affairs, as tensions between Beijing and Manila grew hotter due to disputes over the West Philippines Sea. There were also numerous local arrests of Chinese criminals disguised as Filipinos, or those involved in kidnapping of Chinese employees of Philippine Offshore Gaming
LBy Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
OW labor productivity and educational development as well as weak rule of law continue to stall the country’s efforts to escape the Middle Income Trap, according to Nomura.
Based on Nomura’s Middle Income Trap Escape Index (MITEI), the Philippines is considered a middle income country that is classified as in a “tight spot”—or those countries who were considered performing below average in 1990 and continued to trail their peers.
The MITEI, which is a scoreboard created through the 3i pillars such as investment, infusion, and innovation, was used to determine whether middleincome countries are nearer to escaping the middle-income trap.
“There is certainly no ‘one size fits all’ strategy, but these countries still need to implement various reforms to promote infusion and innovation as income levels increase. The continued improvement in both aspects has been promising over the past two decades,” Nomura said.
“However, a continuation of past success is not a guarantee amid the more
See “Income,” A2
SLITHERING INTO THE FESTIVITIES: BINONDO GEARS UP FOR THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE Ornaments, lucky charms, and vibrant Chinese New Year attractions fill the sights of Binondo Mall in Manila, days before the grand celebration of the Year of the Snake. NONIE REYES/BM INTO THE HEART OF ILONGGO CULTURE: DINAGYANG 2025 AT SM CITY ILOILO
billion in outstanding T-bonds. Longer-term 20-year and 25-year government securities have outstanding T-bonds worth P993.626 billion and P437.121 billion, respectively.
Meanwhile, outstanding Treasury bills (T-bills) amounted to P754.168 billion as of end-December 2024. This expanded by 42.32 percent or P224.276 billion from the P529.892 billion posted in the same period a year ago.
The 91-day T-bills have an outstanding amount of P139.600 billion while the 182-day short-term securities have P229.500 billion in outstanding T-bills. Outstanding 364-day T-bills amounted to P385.068 billion.
2025 borrowing plan
IN 2025, the government will borrow a total of P2.545 trillion, following an 80:20 borrowing mix in favor of domestic sources amounting to P2.037 trillion, based on the state’s budget documents.
The Treasury aims to raise a total of P1.977 trillion from T-bonds and P60 billion from Treasury bills.
The government’s outstanding debt climbed by 10.9 percent yearon-year to a record-high P16.090 trillion as of the end of November 2024.
Meanwhile, debt-to-GDP (gross domestic product), or debt measured against economic growth, is currently at 61.3 percent. This is above the government’s target and global benchmark after economic growth slowed to 5.2 percent in the third quarter.
nounced a 100-percent transmission rate during its nationwide mock elections conducted on Saturday. In a text message, Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia told reporters that all ballots were successfully transmitted to the commission’s various servers.
“100 percent transmissions from precincts to municipal or city canvassing centers, central server, [Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting and [National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections] servers, media server, majority and minority political party servers, as well as the central and backup servers.” He added: “100 percent from [Municipal Board of Canvassers] to the [Provincial Board of Canvassers], and 100 percent to the [Provincial Board] to the National
Mainland…
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Board of Canvassers,” Garcia said.
To facilitate the transmission of votes, the poll body primarily relied on network providers Smart Communications, Globe Telecom, DITO Telecommunity, and Starlink.
Garcia said the use of Starlink proved particularly effective in Sulu, where major telecommunications network struggle with weak signals.
“For your information, the province of Sulu was the first to transmit to our servers...There are areas with no signal, but when Starlink was installed, the transmission became extremely fast,” he said in Filipino.
In addition to Sulu, mock elections were also conducted in Eastern Samar, Surigao del Norte, and the Special Geographic Area in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), with 15 barangays participating simultaneously.
The Comelec also conducted a mock election in SIngapore to test its newly developed online voting and counting
Up 48% to Asia
FORWARDKEYS, which uses global flight data to analyze travel market behavior, saw an overall 48-percent surge in outbound travel to Asia by Chinese nationals from 2024, following Beijing’s declaration of an eightday holiday until February 4 to celebrate the coming
system for overseas Filipinos.
Despite the overall success of the mock polls, Garcia noted a minor issue, with some ballots being misread due to ink smudging.
He assured the public that the commission will address this concern to prevent it from recurring.
Faster, upgraded machines
GARCIA also expressed confidence that fewer technical issues will occur during the May 12 polls given the upgraded automated counting machines leased from Miru Systems.
He explained that the upgraded machines now require only two to three seconds to accept a ballot, followed by an additional 14 seconds for verification.
During this period, the machine checks if the ballot is precinct-specific, validates secret markings and timing marks, and ensures the accuracy of the recorded votes.
Once verification is complete, the
Year of the Wood Snake.
“The extended holiday period for CNY 2025, part of a government initiative to stimulate tourism and cultural exchange, is clearly having a positive impact on travel patterns,” said Dai.
“We’re seeing a clear trend of travelers departing earlier than the official holiday starts to avoid the rush, with another peak expected on January 30, most likely driven by those seeking short-haul getaways after spending the first days of the holiday at home or with family,” she added.
Overall, Japan is the top-performing destination in Asia this Lunar New Year, with the depreciated yen making it an attractive holiday option for Chinese travelers. Dai noted booked travels up a “staggering 104-percent compared to 2024” and a 20-percent increase from 2019. South Korea, while slightly behind 2019 levels, saw a 13-percent increase viz 2024, “supported by a rise in flight capacity.”
The Chinese are also traveling beyond Asia, ForwardKeys data showed, with bookings up by 24 percent versus 2024 this Lunar New Year holiday, although these were still 15-percent below 2019 levels.
Solo, small travel groups preferred IN particular, travel to “Russia is 30-percent up
machine will print a receipt within two seconds, which will be shown to the voter for 20 seconds to confirm that the recorded votes match their selections.
“The entire process takes less than two minutes. What usually takes time is the voting itself, especially when voters spend extra time scanning the list of candidates. That alone can take about five minutes,” Garcia noted, encouraging voters to prepare a list of their chosen candidates beforehand.
Garcia also assured the public that all units have undergone rigorous testing, including hardware acceptance and stress and heat tests to ensure that machine malfunctioning will not be a much of a problem during the elections.
A week before May 12, the machines will undergo final testing and sealing using the final copies of ballots to ensure everything is fully operational before election day.
on 2024 and an impressive 39-percent above pre-pandemic levels—partly due to the rising popularity of winter destinations, eased visa restrictions, and increased flight capacity,” explained Dai. Other top holiday destinations include the United Arab Emirates (+9 percent over 2024), as well as Europe, specifically the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, all up 20-percent from 2024. Meanwhile, ForwardKeys noticed the growing trend of Chinese tourists preferring smaller travel groups. “We’re seeing an increase in solo travelers [+8 percent over 2019] and couples [+6 percent] to Asian destinations, alongside a significant 44-percent decline in larger groups of six or more compared to prepandemic levels,” said Dai. The same trend was noted among Chinese traveling beyond Asia.
Despite an expected slow recovery of Chinese travelers to the Philippines, tourism is expected to flourish in the Year of the Wood Snake, which bodes well for the country’s hospitality industry, travel agencies, destination management companies, and the like. (See, ‘Frustrating economy, inflation’ in The Year of the Wood Snake,” in the BusinessMirror, January 20, 2025.)
challenging global conditions [i.e., increased trade protectionism, rising geopolitical tensions and ageing global population],” it added. Nomura said in the Philippines, the government’s infrastructure investment support will help support medium-term growth but this may be sidetracked by geopolitical tensions.
“Increased geopolitical tensions, including between the Philippines and China, suggest there is an obstacle to incoming FDI flows. The underperformance during the latest supply-chain reconfiguration could therefore limit the boost to investment relative to peers,” Nomura said. Based on the MITEI, the country’s overall score is 85 due to a very low infusion score, which includes education, labor productivity and rule of law. The overall infusion score is 69 out of 100. The education index was at 0.65 while labor productivity is $23,519 followed by rule of law with a score of -0.52. The top scorer in the education index is Germany with 0.96 while in labor productivity, it is Qatar with $151,846 and in rule of law, it is Japan at 1.56.
In terms of innovation, which includes economic complexity, number of patent applications, and research and development expenditure, the Philippines’s score was 91 out of 100. Under this pillar, there are only 39 patent applications per million people and research and development is only 0.3 percent of GDP. In terms of patents, the highest is South Korea with 4,597 patents per million people followed by Japan with 2,301 patents per million.
“The overall score for each country is calculated by averaging the zscores across 9 different indicators of the three pillars to obtain a summary z-score, multiplying it by 50 and then adding 100 [to adjust for negative values]. Each indicator is based on latest available data up to 2023,” Nomura explained.
humanitarian efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic. In response to the government’s urgent need for assistance, the ALC Group converted 10 hotels across key cities—including Manila, Pasig, Mandaluyong, and Puerto Princesa—into quarantine facilities. These spaces were provided free of charge for over a year, serving medical frontliners and individuals in need of safe isolation. This swift and decisive action was pivotal in supporting the country’s pandemic response. Beyond disaster and pandemic relief, the ALC Group has extended its support to orphanages,
churches, and various organizations, embodying its mission of serving the Filipino people. Chairman Cabangon expressed his gratitude, dedicating the award to the entire ALC Group. “This recognition is not mine alone; it belongs to everyone at the ALC Group of Companies who tirelessly work together to fulfill our mission of serving our fellow Filipinos. also dedicate this to my father, Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, whose guidance and inspiration continue to lead us every day. We remain committed to doing our best to serve others. My heartfelt thanks to the award-giving committee, led by Dr. Ronnel Ybanez, for acknowledging our efforts.”
increased workloads without corresponding pay, strained relationships with coworkers, lack of management support, and unfair treatment in the workplace.
Last year, based on the World Bank data, the Philippines has been classified as a lower middle income country by the World Bank for the past 37 years or since 1987. The country’s estimated Gross National Income per capita is $1,146 to $4,515 annually. In order to break this cycle, the experts recommended that governments invest in education by providing high-quality education for all, and identify and support talent by using standardized tests to find competent workers.
The experts also said there is a need to expand employment opportunities and make the qualifications more transparent and merit-based as well as encouraging innovation by investing research and development through partnerships with the academe.
Also crucial, the World Bank said, is to discipline elites. This means implementing progressive tax policies that can reduce wealth inequality and ensure that elites are made accountable for their actions.
encing discrimination based on age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, while 14 others cited violence and harassment, ranging from verbal and emotional abuse to psychological and cyberbullying, as major stress triggers.
Burnout
THE study also highlighted a growing number of workers experiencing burnout, with 31 percent of respondents—or 91 workers—reporting chronic stress that leads to feelings of burnout.
In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified burnout as an occupational phenomenon caused by unmanaged workplace stress.
The WHO outlined burnout with three key characteristics: constant feelings of exhaustion, growing detachment or negativity toward one’s job, and a decline in work performance.
According to ILS, Filipino workers suffer burnout due to various factors, including
“Studies suggest that burnout impairs both the personal and social functions of individuals. Thus, it has become a serious occupational issue in the modern age due to the disruptions it causes to the quality of life and work of employees,” ILS noted.
The study also revealed that 33 percent of respondents feel constantly exhausted, 80 percent feel cynical about their jobs, and 78 percent feel a reduced sense of accomplishment.
“The complexities of psychosocial risks like job stress and burnout may seem to be more difficult to manage than the typical work-related physical risks. Often, these risks can lead to even more serious illness and other health-related implications such as cardiovascular diseases, abdominal distress or stomach discomforts, and headaches,” ILS said.
Work-related disease?
BECAUSE of the significant impact of stress and burnout on employees, the ILS recommended including mental health conditions
in the list of compensable occupational and work-related diseases under Presidential Decree No. 626. Under PD 626, there are currently 32 compensable diseases.
To qualify, the employee’s work or working conditions must involve risks that caused the illness, the disease must have been contracted during the period of exposure, and the employee must not have deliberately ignored safety measures or warnings. Covered diseases include peptic ulcer, cataracts, viral hepatitis, pneumonia, and cancers affecting the bladder, skin, eye, and stomach, among others.
The ILS stressed that psychosocial hazards are becoming more prevalent in certain industries and need to be addressed just as other workplace diseases are.
“Due to the unique characteristics of mental health conditions, establishing parameters or determinants of workrelated mental health conditions will aid the policymakers and program manager in addressing the challenges pertaining to the workers’ compensation claims under the current Employees’ Compensation Program,” it added.
Operations. (See, “Missed goal: 5.95-M foreign tourists visited PHL in 2024,” in the BusinessMirror, January 6, 2025.)
Reading in jail: Way to personal development, reduced sentence
ILIGAN CITY—Can reading a book in jail change a prisoner’s life and even shorten his sentence?
At the male dormitory of this city’s jail, this is not just a possibility but a reality.
Detainees or persons deprived of liberty (PDL) at ICJMD now have a unique opportunity to enhance their personal development and reduce their sentences through reading.
Thanks to the Read Your Way Out (RYWO) Project, an innovative initiative launched by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in partnership with the National Library of the Philippines and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), detainees can access books and educational materials that not only foster rehabilitation but also contribute to earning time allowances. The project started in May 2024 at ICJMD, marking a
significant milestone in jail reform.
The RYWO Project has established 13 new libraries in jails across the Philippines, including the ICJMD. This initiative aims to offer detainees an opportunity to engage in educational pursuits by participating in reading activities. Each book they read brings them closer to early release, providing a tangible incentive for self-improvement and reducing their sentences.
ICJMD has taken significant steps to ensure the accessibility of books within the facility. In addition to the main jail library, Reading Corners have been established inside all 35 dormitories, allowing PDLs to access reading materials anytime.
These Reading Corners address the limited space of the jail library and ensure that more PDL can benefit from the program.
Group seeks 20% discount on data load for students
By Claudeth Mocon Ciriaco
@claudethmc3
NLegislator expresses concern on US withdrawal from WHO
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE vaccination expert of the House of Representatives has raised concerns over the United States’ withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), warning that it could jeopardize the resilience of health programs in the Philippines and other countries supported by WHO and the US Agency for International Development (USAid).
allocating more resources to healthrelated priorities.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order for the US to withdraw from WHO.
Palace clarifies ‘Al Isra Wal’ holiday coverage
By Samuel P. Medenilla
Lawyer Nick Conti, first nominee of Click party-list group, explained that like transportation, internet connection and data are a must for students now.
“Education should be accessible to all, and in today’s digital age, affordable internet is as important as books and classrooms,”
OTING the students increasing reliance on internet connectivity for their school work, a group espousing digital technology as well as free and unhampered wifi connection called for the revisiting of Republic Act 11314 or the Student Fare Discount Act, saying that it is time to include giving students a 20 percent discount on mobile data loads.
MALACAÑANG said the holiday of “Al Isra Wal Mi’raj” or the Night Journey and Ascension of Prophet Muhammad on Monday will only apply to Muslims and in areas specified in Presidential Decree 1083 or the Muslim Code.
In a Viber message to Palace reporters, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin issued the clarification, when
asked about a post, which spread online claiming that the holiday will now be celebrated nationwide.
“Not a National Holiday, but a Muslim holiday only in BARMM [Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao] and other Muslim areas defined in the Muslim Code,” he said.
“Muslims in other areas where it is not observed as a holiday such as NCR [National Capital Region] are excused from reporting for work,” he added.
Al Isra Wal Mi’raj commemorates the journey of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem before his ascension to heaven.
Under the PD 1083, legal Muslim holidays, such as Al Isra Wal Mi’raj, will apply to the following provinces where there is a large population of those who practice Islam namely, Basilan, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga del Norte and
Zamboanga del Sur. It will also cover the cities of Cotabato, Iligan, Marawi, Pagadian, and Zamboanga and in such other Muslim provinces and cities that may be created after the issuance of the decree.
Aside from Al Isra Wal Mi’raj, other legal Muslim holidays are the Amun Jadid (New Year), Maulid-un-Nabi (Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad), Id-ul-Fitr (Hari Raya Pausa), and the Idul-Ad (Hari Raja Haji).
Legislator wants to impose additional tax on electricity
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
IN a bid to generate fresh revenues and support the Philippines’ climate action goals, a senior lawmaker has proposed the country’s first carbon tax on electricity consumption.
Dubbed the Piso para sa Kalikasan tax, Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte said the measure aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while addressing the government’s fiscal challenges.
“One win-win revenue measure that the government can consider is a CTE or Piso para sa Kalikasan tax to help it raise extra funds beginning this year for higher public
spending and for debt servicing and at the same time keep the Philippines on track to fighting climate change by reducing its GHG [greenhouse gas] emissions by 75 percent by the year 2030,” he said. Filed as House Bill 2894, Villafuerte’s proposal imposes a tax of P1 per kilogram of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity consumed. Collections from the Piso para sa
Kalikasan tax would fund climate change mitigation and adaptation programs, including promoting renewable energy (RE) and improving the resiliency of infrastructure and communities.
“Collections from this proposed Piso para sa Kalikasan tax are to be used for programs on climatechange mitigation and adaptation,” Villafuerte said.
Under the measure, households consuming 60 kWh or less per month and consumers using renewable energy sources would be exempt from the tax. Eligible RE users would need certification from the Department of Energy to avail of this exemption.
The proceeds from the proposed tax would be exclusively allocated for: developing and promoting clean and alternative energy sources, enhancing disaster resilience in critical infrastructure, expanding green public transportation, disseminating climate change awareness, protecting environmental quality and biodiversity,
and supporting international commitments to climate action under the Paris Agreement.
Villafuerte’s proposal comes as Finance Secretary Ralph Recto underscored the need for additional revenue measures to reduce the national debt. The government targets raising P300 billion through measures such as the taxation of single-use plastics, rationalization of the mining fiscal regime, and the proposed carbon tax.
The Philippines is highly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters, despite contributing just 0.48% of global carbon emissions.
As a member of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, the country has committed to reducing emissions by 75 percent by 2030 under the Paris Agreement.
By advocating for congressional action on the Piso para sa Kalikasan tax, Villafuerte believes the measure sends a strong message about the nation’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
Pana sets vision for impact, growth
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
EXPANDING an organiza -
tion’s focus from marketing excellence to societal impact is key to further benefit marketers, the chairman of the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (Pana) Foundation said.
PANAF Chairperson Maye Yao Co Say on Thursday shared her vision of enhancing the organization’s impact with an emphasis on synergy, sustainability and accreditation.
“Aside from our key projects, one of our key priorities this year is achieving PCNC [Philippine Council for NGO Certification] accreditation,” she said. “This is more than just a stamp of approval. it is a testament to our legitimacy, accountability and capacity to elevate our mission.”
Say, who served as Pana president in 2022, recounted her introduction of the “One Pana” concept, which aimed to unify and amplify the strengths of both Panaf and Pana. “The goal was simple but powerful—to create synergy, ensuring that Panaf and Pana both stay true to their purpose as they execute
their distinct purposeful projects excellently,” Say explained. “I stand by this vision, committed to making 1 plus 1 equal not just 3, but 5, driving exponential growth through synergistic collaboration.”
For Pana immediate past president Mick Atienza, the association’s key achievements are anchored on successful collaborations, adaptability to global trends and a responsive approach to industry concerns.
Through “expert-driven” General Membership Meetings, Atienza said they made sure they covered “relevance and timeliness.”
Looking ahead, Atienza expressed confidence in his successor, Chrissy Roa, who officially takes over as Pana President for 2025. He encouraged Roa to wear the leadership badge with pride, knowing she was “chosen” for the role.
Roa, in turn, expressed gratitude for his contributions and pledged to continue fostering Pana’s collaborative approach while driving toward greater innovation.
Outgoing Panaf chairman Blen Fernando took an unconventional approach to measuring success, emphasizing the foundation’s
impact beyond financial metrics.
“Unlike Pana, and as anyone talking about the industry, the Pana Foundation is kind of on the invisible side because we deal with the news,” Fernando said.
She described the foundation’s financial struggles and task overload but credited the members’ collective efforts for keeping its programs alive. “We did not have the luxury of corporate membership dues to dig into our pocket since Panaf does not collect its own dues.”
“The foundation’s resource mobilization required creativity, lots of networking, tapping among friends, and the generosity of like-minded organizations who believed in our work,” she added.
New officers
THE Pana and Panaf officially inducted their new officers, board of directors and trustees for 2025 at Seda Hotel in Bonifacio Global City on January 23.
Roa of Ayala Land Inc. took the helm as Pana’s new president, with Cathy Santamaria from Bank of the Philippine Islands as vice president. Other key officers include Victor Janolino (Rebisco)
as secretary, Katherine Martinez (Unilab) as treasurer, Emmanuel Ordinanza (Nestlé Philippines) as public relations officer and Ricky Salvador (Kopiko) as auditor. Directors elected for 2025 include Bea Martinez (Century Pacific Food Inc.), Bea Atienza (ColgatePalmolive), Julie Balarbar (De La Salle University), Ana LegardaLocsin (Procter & Gamble) and Say (Richwell Philippines, Inc.).
Say assumed the role of Panaf chairperson, with Janolino as vice chairman, Salvador as secretary, and Santamaria as treasurer.
The newly appointed trustees are Martinez, Adi Timbol-Hernandez (McDonald’s Philippines), Marvin Lim (Mega Prime Foods), Jared de Guzman (Watsons Philippines Inc.), Jos Ortega (Havas Ortega), Fernando (Museum Foundation of the Philippines Inc.) and Gigi Tibi (RadManila Communications, Inc.).
Founded in 1958, PANA is a non-profit, non-stock industry organization representing brand builders and advertisers across multinational companies, small and medium-sized enterprises and industry partners.
Jinggoy backs calls to include all senior citizens in social pension
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
SENATE president pro tempore Jinggoy
Ejercito Estrada has joined calls to include all Filipinos aged 60 and above in the coverage of the monthly social pension given to indigent senior citizens.
“Sa mata ng batas, dapat pantay ang lahat.Walangdapatpinipili,” Estrada said.
Under Republic Act 7432, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act, only indigent senior citizens are entitled to get the P1,000 monthly social pension given by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Garin, however, viewed the decision from a pragmatic perspective, stating that the move reflects the US’ desire to focus its resources on domestic priorities.
“The so-called mishandling of the pandemic—there is no perfect response to a pandemic. Honestly, in my view, America is just looking for a reason. The truth is, they are really trying to save money because they want to allocate more for their internal needs, which is understandable during these times,” Garin noted.
Garin also emphasized WHO’s critical role in global health, particularly in conducting surveillance and addressing public health emergencies across nations.
“It seeks to improve their quality of health, ensure their social inclusion, and help restore their dignity regardless of their age or economic status,” Estrada also said.
The measure recognizes the Philippines’ transition toward an aging Philipppine population—which is projected to be at 13.2 million aged 60 and above by 2030—and seeks to address the financial challenges faced by many seniors who lack pensions or stable sources of income. Estrada lamented that despite existing efforts of the government, a significant portion of senior citizens still struggle to meet their daily needs.
Prior to Estrada’s filing of the measure, some 6,000
“Not all senior citizens are as lucky as those who receive pensions or have economic subsistence to support their daily needs. In fact, many of them are forced to find employment to supply their and their family’s needs,” Estrada said in explaining the rationale behind his proposed Senate Bill 2929. SBN 2929 proposes a “universal social pension” that would cover all Filipino senior citizens, regardless of their social status. Under Estrada’s bill, senior citizens who are not considered indigents shall also be entitled to a monthly stipend of P500. This shall be increased to P1,000 after five years. This universal social pension is more than just a financial aid—it is a measure of social protection and empowerment for our elderly population,” the Senate leader said.
Hospital in Clark gets nod from US-based intl body
CLARK FREEPORT—The US-based Joint Commission that accredits health care organizations and programs worldwide, has accredited a hospital in this free port enabling it to receive US Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements.
This was announced over the weekend when The Medical City (TMC) in this free port marked its 10th Anniversary.
TMC Clark, which opened in 2015 has a 103-bed facility and provides healthcare service to the growing business community and residents in Northern and Central Luzon.
During the anniversary celebration, TMC’s accreditation by (JCI)was announced. Thus TMC Clark is the first and only JCI-accredited hospital in Central Luzon.
Dr. Noelito Lacsamana, TMC president and chief executive officer said the accreditation not only solidifies TMC Clark’s reputation as a leader in healthcare in the Philippines but also enhances its standing in the global medical community.
“The JCI gold seal is not just a symbol, it represents the highest standards of quality and safety in healthcare. We are shaping the future of healthcare in the region,” Lacsamana said.
“By meeting JCI’s rigorous standards, the hospital has streamlined processes and improved healthcare, fostering a more efficient and effective healthcare ecosystem,” he added. Ashley Manabat
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The project has been instrumental in promoting personal development and rehabilitation among PDL. Time Allowance for Studying, Teaching, and Mentoring (TASTM) is a provision that allows PDL to earn deduction from her sentence through educational activities. A detainee can earn 15 days reduction for every 60-hour accumulated participation in TASTMaccredited activities each month. Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) is another provision that grants sentence reductions based on good behavior, awarding 20 days reduction of sentence per month. Together, these allowances provide PDL with meaningful incentives to engage in productive activities.
Since the implementation of the RYWO Project at ICJMD, remarkable progress has been made. Previously, the average number of PDL granted TASTM was only seven per
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Conti said during the Barangay Leaders Forum in Calamba City recently.
“This student discount on mobile data ensures that every Filipino student has equal access to online resources, digital learning platforms, and research tools—regardless of where they are,” he said. Under the proposed program, students from elementary to college, including those enrolled in vocational and technical courses, can avail themselves of the discount upon presenting a valid student ID or proof of enrollment.
month. From May to December 2024, a total of 544 PDLs were granted TASTM, with an average of 68 grantees per month. Notably, 487 of these PDL accrued time allowances specifically from accessing library services, representing 90 percent of those granted TASTM. This significant change has resulted in an average increase of 771 percent per month in PDLs who were granted TASTM through library services, showcasing the positive impact of the RYWO Project. During the same period, ICJMD released a total of 470 PDL through various modes. Of these, 130 were released via time allowance (GCTA and TASTM), and among them, 30 PDL were released with TASTM. Remarkably, in just eight months of the library’s operation, 10 PDL were released due to time allowances accrued from reading. This early success demonstrates the impact of the project, with these 10 individuals making up approximately 8 percent of the total PDL set free through combined time allowances and 33 percent of those released with TASTM.
Unlike existing student discounts, such as the 20.percent off on transportation fares, proposal targets digital access—a necessity for modern learning.
“ Pamasahe is important, but today, the bigger gap is in digital ac cess. Internet connectivity is the bridge to knowledge,” Conti emphasized. The program also aims to uplift students in remote areas, where mobile data is often the sole means of connectivity due to limited infrastructure for public wifi. By collaborating with major telco providers, the initiative will help lower the cost of education-related internet usage, empowering students to excel academically, he added.
“This is not just about cheaper internet—it’s about opening doors to a brighter future for our students. Affordable mobile data enables students to stay connected with their schools, engage in online learning, and maximize their potential,” Atty. Conti added.
Demand surge lifts coconut oil prices–Ucap
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE tightness in coconut supply caused by El Niño and rising global demand primarily drove the increase in coconut oil prices last year, according to the United Coconut Association of the Philippines (Ucap).
Ucap said the average quotation of coconut oil settled at $1,512 per metric ton (MT) in 2024, 40.78 percent higher than the average $1,074 per MT recorded in the previous year. Currently, it averages $1,980 per MT.
The group also said the country’s estimated coconut oil exports reached 1.354 million metric tons (MMT) in 2024.
variety of uses such as culinary trends and personal care had also put pressure on prices.
“The combination of diminished supply due to El Niño and the persistent growth in global demand for coconut products have created the perfect storm for a spike in coconut oil prices over recent months.”
Regulations
higher demand. This has further aggravated the already tight supply condition in Q4 2024, resulting in a rapid increase in coconut oil prices.”
In the Philippines, UCAP noted that the increase of the mandated coco methyl ester (CME) or biodiesel blend to 3 percent from 2 percent also increased the demand for coconut oil.
the 12-month delay in the EUDR’s implementation and the easing of the dry spell’s impact on coconut yields could soften prices.
local coconut industry, leading to a more stable supply and prices over the long term.
“With a captive domestic market and current copra prices reaching P60 per kilo, there is a strong motivation for coconut farmers to push for higher production through tree planting, seeking efficiency, and fostering innovations in farming.”
For one, El Niño stressed coconut trees, which led to a 20-percent reduction in yield since water scarcity affected productivity.
Ucap said the booming demand for the tropical oil globally due to a shift in market preference where coconut oil is seen as a “more sustainable, organic, and natural alternative raw material” for a
The industry group said the spike in coconut oil prices was due to a combination of factors.
MEANWHILE , the group said the supposed implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) last December 30 triggered a stockpiling among market participants that contributed to the price spike.
The EUDR, which imposes heavy duties on agricultural commodities that threaten rainforests, led to a preference for coconut oil over palm and soybean oil.
“With the supposed EUDR implementation last December 30, 2024, market players have stocked up on coconut oil in anticipation of
However, the group added that its impact would be “less significant” since the biodiesel industry only accounts for a fraction of the country’s coconut oil production.
“The overall impact of said increase is less significant compared to the other factors mentioned above given that out of the total coconut oil production in the Philippines, the biodiesel industry only uses 20 percent, much lower if global coconut oil production is considered. At least 70 percent of the country’s coconut oil production goes to the export market.”
Despite this, Ucap noted that
‘Other coco-based products to benefit from US label rule’
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said demand for other coconutbased products may rise after the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed coconut in the list of tree nuts classified as major food allergens.
Citing Mintel’s global new product database from 2018 to 2023, DTI-Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) Director Bianca Pearl Sykimte said there are more than 20,000 product variants that use coconut as an ingredient in the US, including food, drinks and personal care products.
“The delisting of coconut as a major food allergen can boost demand for these products and encourage more producers and consumers to support coconut-based/ containing products. This, in turn, will benefit our coconut farmers and exporters,” Sykimte said.
The FDA recently released a document, providing guidance for industry on food allergen labeling requirements under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. The document removes coconut in the list of tree nuts classified as major food allergens.
DTI said in a statement that this development eliminates the need for special allergen labeling on coconut-containing packaged foods and supplements under the US Food Allergen Labeling and
Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA).
The delisting is expected to enhance market confidence in the use of coconut as an ingredient in food products and supplements, providing a “significant boost” for Philippine coconut exporters in the US market.
DTI said this milestone follows “decades of lobbying” by the Philippine coconut farmers and exporters.
“These efforts were strongly supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Agriculture [DA], and the Philippine Coconut Authority [PCA].”
The DTI and the DA have long championed the removal of co -
conut in the list of major food allergens, Sykimte said.
In September 2023, the PCA and the DTI-EMB, along with Philippine industry leaders, led a policy mission to Washington, D.C. to discuss the issue with key US government experts.
“Given the importance of the Philippine coconut industry, DTI and DA then elevated the discussions to the Philippines-US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) Working Group on Economics, Development and Prosperity, chaired by DTI Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo and co-chaired by Department of Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella, held in April 2024, and in the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement
(TIFA) meetings held in July 2024.”
Key products like coconut oil, desiccated coconut and copra continue to drive demand, reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the country’s export growth.
The removal of coconut’s allergen classification is expected to boost demand for a variety of coconut-based items, including refined and virgin coconut oil, coconut milk, desiccated coconut, coconut water, and coconut sugar.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that coconut products continue to rank among the Philippines’s top exports, with shipments to the US alone reaching $524.92 million from January to October 2024.
IRRI ties up with XAG to promote precision farming
THE International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and smart agriculture technology company XAG forged ties to advance innovation in Philippine agriculture using drone technology. Through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), IRRI and XAG would collaborate to validate the application of smart agriculture technologies in rice-based cropping systems through experimentation and research.
“Drones have been increasingly used for high throughput phenotyping, crop monitoring, improving agricultural productivity, and supporting precision farming,” IRRI Senior Scientist and Digital Agriculture and Precision Farming Lead Engr. Steve Klassen said in a statement.
“By providing efficient tools for crop monitoring, precision input application, and data-driven deci -
sion-making, drones provide the potential to significantly reduce costs and increase yields, optimizing resource use and minimizing environmental impact.”
For XAG Head of International Business Wei Tong, the use of drone technology could bolster the Philippines’s agricultural competitiveness.
“IRRI is a key research and technology partner in the Philippines, and through this effort, we hope to contribute to the country’s agricultural competitiveness through drone-based technologies,” Tong said.
He noted that XAG’s agricultural drones could be applied to various precision farming scenarios, such as direct seeding, pesticide spraying, fertilizer operation, and remote sensing.
“We hope to expand our engagements abroad to strengthen
global food security and tackle climate change, as rice is the primary staple food that feeds over half of the world’s population.”
XAG, through its Philippine partner Agridom, donated agricultural drones to IRRI as part of efforts to support its mission of advancing precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices.
Agridom pioneered the introduction of XAG agricultural drones in the Philippines, bringing cutting-edge technology to local farmers and institutions.
Meanwhile, IRRI said drones could rapidly provide measurements of traits related to growth, yield, and stress adaptation.
It added that this is particularly valuable to smallholder farmers who must improve their productivity and reduce production costs to be competitive and stay in business amid climate change, labor
“The implementation of EUDR was postponed by 12 months to December 30, 2025. As such, with fully-stocked market players and the delay in anticipated demand, there could be temporary relief in supply tightness and near-term correction in coconut oil prices.”
“Furthermore, once El Niño’s impact on yields subsides, coconut production and supply should return to normal, leading to more stable prices.”
Copra prices
UCAP said elevated global coconut oil prices pushed the farmgate price for copra to over P60 per kilo from the average of P35 per kilo in 2023. Copra is dried coconut flesh used to make coconut oil. It added that while these price spikes could negatively affect consumer sentiment in the short term, they could spur the
The group cited the Philippine Coconut Authority’s (PCA) project that aims to plant 100 million coconut trees by 2028, which could have a “significant impact” on long-term coconut production considering that the country only has about over 300 million trees planted.
“Ultimately, copra prices that are economically sustainable, along with captive domestic demand, spur the industry towards greater productivity and efficiency. These are the much-needed catalysts for a long-overlooked industry to enter into a new growth supercycle.”
Long Island’s last duck farm weighs closure after outbreak leads to killing of entire flock
NEW YORK’S Long Island was once synonymous with “duck” in the culinary world. Now it may lose its last commercial farm. The avian flu outbreak that has led to the slaughter of millions of birds at US poultry farms and driven up the price of eggs struck the Crescent Duck Farm this week, leading federal officials to order the destruction of the operation’s entire flock.
Doug Corwin, whose family has owned the roughly 140-acre farm since the 1640s, said Friday that a multiday culling of about 100,000 birds has been completed at the now-quarantined barns in Aquebogue.
His remaining staff will thoroughly sanitize the facility, a process that could take months.
“We’re just stunned right now,” Corwin, 66, said Friday by phone. “It’s a very, very sad time. We’re trying our best to work our way through this, one step at a time.”
He said the family will have to reckon with the future of the fourth-generation business, which was established in 1908 and is tucked among the vineyards and agricultural lands of Long Island’s North Fork, about 80 miles (129 km) east of Manhattan.
Corwin said he was forced to lay off 47 of the farm’s 75-member staff, including many who had worked there for decades as the farm’s revenue cratered.
shortages, and higher input costs.
However, the organization noted drone adoption in the Philippines is hindered by limited access to technology, lack of standard protocols, financial resources, and regulatory constraints.
“To overcome these challenges, we need a comprehensive approach that involves targeted training, guidelines for best practices, financial incentives, and supportive government policies,” Klassen said.
IRRI said Klassen’s team is also working with the Department of Agriculture (DA) National Program, the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), and their allied bureaus on the Drones4Rice Project, which aims to streamline and standardize drone protocols for applying seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides in the country. Ada Pelonia
“If duck farming isn’t an option, I’m not sure what we’d do,” he said. “We’re not really set up for anything else.”
Long Island was once a center of duck production in the US, thanks to its abundance of freshwater streams, friendly climate and proximity to major East Coast cities.
During its heyday in the early 1960s, the region boasted more than 100 farms, producing up to 7.5 million birds annually, or about two-thirds of the nation’s duck output.
Crescent Duck Farm has been the island’s lone remaining operation for the better part of a decade, as higher operating costs, tougher regulations and increasing suburban sprawl took their toll.
Today the farm supplies nearly 4 percent of all the ducks sold in the country, supplying restaurants across the Northeast and beyond, including a number of high-end establishments in New York City, Corwin said. The key to its longevity has been the quality of its ducks, which he said have a thick, meaty breast and just enough skin fat to keep them tender and moist during cooking.
“The only way we’ve survived on Long Island is by making a duck that is different from our competition,” Corwin said.
Following the outbreak, the farm was allowed to hold on to several thousand duck eggs, which he hopes will help rebuild its flock and preserve the distinctive genetics honed over generations.
The quarantined eggs will first be sanitized and hatched offsite, with regular testing for any signs of the virus.
But Corwin said he is reluctant to restart without federal approval for vaccinating poultry—something larger industrial farms oppose because of its impact on international sales.
Without vaccination, he said, smaller operations will continue to be at risk of total ruin.
Even now, Corwin said he is not sure how the virus entered the tightly controlled facility after he noticed signs some of the birds were amiss last week. The farm, he said, imposed strict protocols to prevent infection as bird flu has ravaged poultry operations globally.
Cases of this strain of bird flu jumping into humans is rare. There have been 67 confirmed human cases and one death reported in the United States so far, according to federal health officials. Cattle outbreaks have been reported in several states. Infections in commercial flocks, though, have become more common. At least 13 million birds have been infected in the past 30 days alone, according to the USDA, with a handful of farms being effected each day.
“We had identified weaknesses and tightened everything up,” Corwin lamented. “It wasn’t enough, I guess.” AP
PHOTO FROM WWW.DA.GOV.PH
Hamas frees 4 female Israeli soldiers in exchange for 200 Palestinian prisoners as ceasefire holds
By Isabel Debre, Sam Mednick, Wafaa Shurafa & Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
TEL AVIV, Israel—Four female Israeli soldiers who were taken in the attack that sparked the war in Gaza returned to Israel on Saturday after Hamas militants paraded them before a crowd of thousands in Gaza City and handed them over to the Red Cross. Israel later released 200 Palestinian prisoners in the second exchange of a fragile ceasefire.
The four Israelis smiled, waved and gave the thumbs-up from a stage in Palestine Square, with armed, masked militants on either side as Hamas sought to show it remained in control in Gaza after 15 months of war. The hostages likely acted under duress. Previously released ones said they were held in brutal conditions and forced to record propaganda videos.
90 prisoners. It is aimed at winding down the deadliest and most destructive war ever fought between Israel a nd Hamas. The deal has allowed for a surge of aid into tiny, devastated Gaza.
Who are the soldiers and prisoners released?
T HE f our Israeli soldiers, Karina Ariev, 20, Daniella Gilboa, 20, na ama Levy, 20, and Liri Albag, 19, were taken from n a hal Oz base near the border with Gaza when Palestinian militants overran it, killing more than 60 soldiers.
A video released by Hamas’ armed wing showed the hostages thanking the militants in Arabic for the good treatment,” again likely under duress.
I srael’s army spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari criticized Hamas’ “cynical” display. He also said Israel is concerned about the two youngest hostages—Kfir and Ariel Bibas—and their mother, Shiri. Kfir Bibas marked his second birthday in captivity this month. Among the Palestinian prisoners released were Mohammad Odeh, 5 2, and Wael Qassim, 54, accused of carrying out Hamas attacks against Israelis, including a bombing at a cafeteria at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2002 that killed nine people, including five US citizens.
I srael’s Prison Service said it released 200 Palestinians, including 1 21 people serving life sentences after being convicted of deadly attacks against Israelis, while others w ere held without charge. Thousands of Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank city of Ramallah celebrated their arrival. Wan-looking and wearing gray p rison sweatsuits, some donned Hamas headbands given to them by the crowd and rode on supporters’ shoulders.
this?” asked one man, Khalil Abd. Families huddled around bonfires against the winter cold.
In the deal’s first major crisis, Israel said it would not allow displaced P alestinians to return to northern Gaza by Sunday as anticipated, because civilian hostage Arbel Yehoud w as not released as expected. As mediators addressed that, hundreds of Palestinians gathered near t he east-west n e tzarim corridor dividing Gaza. “ Why are they treating us like
Sudan’s civil war escalates: 70 dead in attack on hospital,
By Jon Gambrell The Associated Press
UBAI, United Arab Emir -
Dates—Some 70 people were killed in an attack on the only functional hospital in the besieged city of El Fasher in Sudan, the chief of the World Health Organization said Sunday, part of a series of attacks coming as the African nation’s civil war escalated in recent days.
The attack on the Saudi Teaching Maternal Hospital, which local officials blamed on the rebel Rapid Support Forces, came as the group has seen apparent battlefield losses to the Sudanese military and allied forces under the command of army chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan. That includes Burhan appearing near a burning oil refinery north of Khartoum on Saturday that his forces said they seized from the RSF.
International mediation attempts and pressure tactics, including a US assessment that the RSF and its proxies are committing genocide and sanctions targeting Burhan, have not halted the fighting.
Reported attack follows RSF warning
In the Saudi hospital attack in El Fasher, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus offered the death toll in a post on the social platform X. Officials and others in the capital of n o rth Darfur province had cited a similar figure Saturday, but Ghebreyesus is the first international source to provide a casualty number. Reporting on Sudan is incredibly difficult given communication challenges and exaggerations by both the RSF and the Sudanese military.
“The appalling attack on Saudi Hospital in El Fasher, Sudan, led to 19 injuries and 70 deaths among patients and companions,” Ghebreyesus wrote. “At the time of the attack, the hospital was packed with patients receiving care.”
Another health facility in Al Malha also was attacked Saturday, he added.
WhO chief says
“We continue to call for a cessation of all attacks on health care in Sudan, and to allow full access for the swift restoration of the facilities that have been damaged,” he wrote. “Above all, Sudan’s people need peace. The best medicine is peace.”
Ghebreyesus did not identify who launched the attack, though local officials had blamed the RSF for the assault. United n ations official Clementine n k weta-Salami, who coordinates humanitarian efforts for the world body in Sudan, warned Thursday that the RSF earlier had given “a 48-hour ultimatum to forces allied to the Sudanese Armed Forces to vacate the city and indicated a forthcoming offensive.”
“Since May 2024, El Fasher has been under RSF siege,” she said. “Civilians in El Fasher have already endured months of suffering, violence and gross human rights abuses under the prolonged siege. Their lives now hang in the balance due to an increasingly precarious situation.”
The RSF did not immediately acknowledge the attack in El Fasher, which is over 800 kilometers (500 miles) southwest of Khartoum. The city is now estimated to be home to over 1 million people, many of whom have been displaced by the war.
The RSF siege has seen 782 civilians killed and over 1,140 others wounded, the U n said in December, warning the figures likely were higher.
The Saudi hospital, just north of El Fasher’s airport, sits near the frontlines of the war and has been repeatedly hit by shelling. However, its doctors continue surgeries, sometimes by the light of mobile phones while the hospital is hit.
However, the RSF appeared in recent days to have lost control of the Khartoum refinery, the biggest in Sudan and crucial to both its economy and that of South Sudan. Burhan’s forces also say they broke another RSF besiegement of the Signal Corps headquarters in northern Khartoum. The rebels claimed they were “tightening the noose” around that base.
Israeli forces shot and killed a Palestinian man close to the n e tzarim corridor, Palestinian medical o fficials said. Israel’s military said it fired warning shots in response to “gatherings of dozens of suspects.” It said it was unaware of anyone harmed.
Israel insists on release of civilian hostage Arbel Yehoud
P R IME M inister Benjamin n e tanyahu’s office said Israel would not allow Palestinians into northern Gaza u ntil Yehoud, taken from a kibbutz in Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack that
ignited the war, was freed. Hamas said it held Israel responsible for “any delay in implementing t he agreement and its repercussions.”
A senior Hamas official said the group informed mediators that Yehoud will be released next week. An E gyptian official involved in negotiations called the matter a “minor i ssue” that mediators were working to resolve. Both spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
T he US n a tional Security Council continues to push for Yehoud’s r elease, a spokesperson said. The ceasefire began last weekend with the release of three hostages and
The four squealed as they hurried to embrace loved ones. Thousands of people danced and celebrated as the soldiers arrived by helicopter near a Tel Aviv hospital, which said they were in stable condition.
“I had goosebumps watching them,” said Aviv Bercovich in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square. “I just want the war to end.”
Thousands of Israelis gathered there again Saturday night to call for all hostages to be freed, amid fears the war will resume.
A fifth female soldier in the unit, Agam Berger, 20, also was abducted. n o w she’s there alone,” said family friend Yoni Collins.
In Gaza City, resident Radwan Abu Rawiya also watched the handover. “This is huge,” he said. “People forgot about the war, destruction and a re celebrating.”
North Korea says it tested cruise missile system, vows ‘toughest’ response to US
By Hyung-Jin Kim The Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea— n or th Korea said Sunday it tested a cruise missile system, its third known weapons display this year, and vowed “the toughest” response to what it called the escalation of US-South Korean military drills that target the n o rth.
The moves suggested n o rth Korea will likely maintain its run of weapons tests and its confrontational stance against the US for now, even though President Donald Trump said he intends to reach out to n o rth Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The official Korean Central n ews Agency said Kim observed the test of sea-to-surface strategic cruise guided weapons on Saturday.
The term “strategic” implies the missiles are nuclear-capable. KC n A said the missiles hit their targets after traveling 1,500-kilometer (932mile) -long elliptical and figureeight-shaped flight patterns, but that couldn’t be independently verified.
KC n A c ited Kim as saying that n o rth Korea’s war deterrence capa -
Kbilities “are being perfected more thoroughly” and affirming that his country will make “strenuous efforts” to defend stability “on the basis of more powerfully developed military muscle.”
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said n o rth Korea had launched “several” cruise missiles toward its western waters from an inland area at around 4 p.m. on Saturday. It said South Korean maintains a readiness to “overwhelmingly” repel any provocations by no rth Korea in conjunction with its military alliance with the US.
In a separate statement carried by KC n A o n Sunday, n o rth Korea’s Foreign Ministry criticized the US for committing “serious military provocations aiming at” n o rth Korea with a series of military exercises with South Korea this month.
“The reality stresses that the DPRK should counter the US with the toughest counteraction from A to Z as long as it refuses the sovereignty and security interests of the DPRK and this is the best option for dealing with the US,” the Foreign Ministry statement said. DPRK stands for the Democratic
has not stopped military
By Samya Kullab The Associated Press
YIV, Ukraine—Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday the US has not stopped military aid to Ukraine after newly sworn in US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he would pause foreign aid grants for 90 days. Zelenskyy did not clarify whether humanitarian aid had been paused. Ukraine relies on the US for 40% of its military needs. “I am focused on military aid; it has not been stopped, thank God,” he said at a press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu.
The two leaders met in Kyiv on Saturday to discuss the energy needs of Moldova’s Russian-occupied Transnistria region, which saw its natural gas supplies halted
on Jan. 1 due to Ukraine’s decision to stop Russian gas transit. Ukraine has said it can offer coal to the Transnistrian authorities to make up for the shortfall.
The future of US aid to Ukraine remains uncertain as President Donald Trump begins his second term in office. The American leader has repeatedly said he wouldn’t have allowed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to start if he had been in office, although he was president as fighting grew in the east of the country between Kyiv’s forces and separatists aligned with Moscow, ahead of Putin sending in tens of thousands of troops in 2022.
On Thursday, Trump told Fox News that Zelenskyy should have made a deal with Putin to avoid the conflict. A day earlier, Trump also threatened to impose stiff tariffs and sanctions on Russia if an agree -
People’s Republic of Korea, the abbreviation of its formal name. The Foreign Ministry warning was in line with Kim’s vows to implement the “toughest” anti-US policy during a year-end political meeting.
n o rth Korea views US military training with South Korea as invasion rehearsals though Washington and Seoul have repeatedly said their drills are defensive in nature. In recent years, the US and South Korea have expanded their military exercises in response to n o rth Korea’s advancing nuclear program.
The start of Trump’s second term raises prospects for the revival of diplomacy between the US and n o rth Korea, as Trump met Kim three times during his first term. The Trump-Kim diplomacy in 2018-19 fell apart due to wrangling over US-led economic sanctions on n o rth Korea.
During a Fox n e ws interview broadcast Thursday, Trump called Kim “a smart guy” and “not a religious zealot.” Asked whether he will reach out to Kim again, Trump replied, “I will, yeah.”
Many experts say Kim likely thinks he has greater bargaining power than
ment isn’t reached to end the fighting in Ukraine.
Speaking in Kyiv on Saturday, Zelenskyy said he had enjoyed “good meetings and conversations with President Trump” and that he believed the US leader would succeed in his desire to end the war.
“This can only be done with Ukraine, and otherwise it simply will not work because Russia does not want to end the war, and Ukraine does,” Zelenskyy said.
Grinding eastern offensive W IT h Trump stressing the need to quickly broker a peace deal, both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking battlefield successes to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of any prospective talks. For the past year, Russian forces have been waging an intense campaign to
“I am afraid that I will not know him when he gets out, or that he will not know me,” said Rana Raef al-Farra in Gaza, who said she was 7 when her father was sentenced 21 years ago. Seventy released prisoners were expelled to Egypt, with Algeria, Tunisia and Turkey expressing willingness to take them in, according to A bdullah al-Zaghari, head of a Palestinian prisoner advocacy group. Debre r eported from Ramallah, West Bank. Magdy reported from Cairo. Shurafa reported from Deir Al-Balah, Gaza Strip. Joseph Federman in Jerusalem, Sam McNeil at Reim Military Base, Israel, Zeke Miller in Washington and David Rising in Bangkok contributed to this report.
in his earlier round of diplomacy with Trump because of his country’s enlarged nuclear arsenal and deepening military ties with Russia. In South Korea, many worry that Trump might scale back military drills with the Asian US ally and abandon the goal of the complete denuclearization of n o rth Korea and focus on eliminating its long-range missile program, which poses a direct threat to the US, while leaving its nuclear attack capabilities against South Korea intact.
On Monday, Trump called no rth Korea “a nuclear power” as he spoke of his personal ties with Kim during a news conference at the Oval Office after his inauguration. Washington, Seoul and their partners have long shunned describing n o rth Korea as a nuclear state because that could be seen as accepting its pursuit of nuclear weapons in violation of U n Security Council resolutions.
After his first summit with Kim in 2018, Trump baffled many in South Korea by unilaterally announcing the suspension of major summertime military drills, calling them “very provocative” and “tremendously expensive.”
n o rth Korea hasn’t commented on Trump’s latest overture. Sunday’s cruise missile tests were the n o rth’s first known weapons launches since Trump’s inauguration.
punch holes in Ukraine’s defenses in the Donetsk region and weaken Kyiv’s grip on the eastern parts of the country. The sustained
Israeli soldier hostages wave and react at a Palestinian crowd before being handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Abed Hajjar)
Devastating toll for Gaza’s children: Over 13,000 killed and an estimated 25,000 injured, UN says
By Edith M. Lederer
The Associated Press
UNITED NATIONS—The war in Gaza has been devastating for children:
More than 13,000 have been killed, an estimated 25,000 injured, and at least 25,000 hospitalized for malnutrition, according to UN agencies.
As Britain’s deputy UN ambassador, James Kariuki, recently told the Security Council, “Gaza has become the deadliest
place in the world to be a child.”
“The children of Gaza did not choose this war,” he said, “yet they have paid the ultimate price.”
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported Thursday that of the 40,717 Palestinian bodies identified so far in Gaza, onethird—13,319—were children. The office said Friday the figures came from Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
The UN children’s agency, UNICEF,
said the estimate of 25,000 children injured came from its analysis based on information collected together with Gaza’s Health Ministry.
UN deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed said nearly 19,000 children had been hospitalized for acute malnutrition in the four months before December.
That figure also came from UNICEF, which said it was from data collected by U.N. staff in Gaza focusing on nutrition, in coordination with all pertinent UN
agencies.
The UN says thousands of children have also been orphaned or separated from their parents during the 15-month war.
Yasmine Sherif, executive director of the UN global fund Education Cannot Wait, told a press conference that 650,000 school-age children haven’t been attending classes and the entire education system has to be rebuilt because of the widespread destruction in Gaza.
Diplomats from Britain, France and
other countries also cited the toll on Israeli children who were killed, injured and abducted during Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023—with some still being held hostage.
Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon asked the Security Council whether it ever paused to consider the plight of Israeli children “mutilated, tortured and murdered” on October 7, the 30 who were kidnapped and the tens of thousands who have been displaced, their homes destroyed.
“The trauma they have endured is beyond imagination,” he said. Danon called Thursday’s council meeting on children in Gaza “an affront to common sense,” accusing Hamas of turning Gaza into “the world’s largest terror base” and using children as human shields.
“The children of Gaza could have had a future filled with opportunity,” he said. “Instead, they are trapped in a cycle of violence and despair, all because of Hamas, not because of Israel.”
Trump’s dismissal of 17 independent inspectors general sparks legal furor
By Zeke Miller, Eric Tucker & Will Weissert The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—The Trump administration has fired about 17 independent inspectors general at government agencies, a sweeping action to remove oversight of his new administration that some members of Congress are suggesting violated federal oversight laws.
The dismissals began Friday night and were effective immediately, according to two people familiar with the actions. They spoke on condition of anonymity to provide details that have not been made public. n e ither confirmed the exact number of firings, but an email sent by one of the fired inspectors general said “roughly 17” inspectors general had been removed.
Trump confirmed the move in a conversation with reporters aboard Air Force One on Saturday, claiming, “it’s a very common thing to do.” He said he would “put good people in there that will be very good.”
Congress was not given the legally required 30-day notices about the removals—something that even a top Republican is decrying.
“There may be good reason the IGs were fired. We need to know that if so,” Sen. Chuck Grassley, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said in a statement. “I’d like further explanation from President Trump. Regardless, the 30-day detailed notice of removal that the law demands was not provided to Congress,” said Grassley, R-Iowa.
The role of the modern-day inspector general dates to post-Watergate Washington, when Congress installed offices inside agencies as an independent check against mismanagement and abuse of power. Though inspectors general are presidential appointees, some serve presidents of both parties. All are expected to be nonpartisan.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., acknowledged that the firings violated
statutes but shrugged it off: “Just tell them you need to follow the law next time,” he said.
Democrats and watchdog groups, however, used the dismissals to raise alarm that Trump was making it easier to take advantage of the government.
“Inspectors General are the cops on the beat preventing bad things from happening,” Max Stier, president and CEO of the nonpartisan Partnership for Public Service, said in a statement. “Their work saves the taxpayer tens of billions of dollars every year.”
The White House did not comment on Saturday. President Donald Trump was in Las Vegas for a speech focused on his campaign promise to end federal taxation on tips.
But the moves were consistent with the president’s first week back in the White House, which has featured a series of steps to remake the federal government. Trump has done everything from using executive orders to impose hiring freezes and crack down on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, to suggesting that he wants to shutter the Federal Emergency Management Agency and leave disaster recovery up to individual states affected by major emergencies.
“Yesterday, in the dark of night, President Trump fired at least 12 independent inspector generals at important federal agencies across the administration,” Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of n ew York said Saturday on the chamber’s floor. “This is a chilling purge and
it’s a preview of the lawless approach Donald Trump and his administration are taking far too often as he’s becoming president.”
Schumer said the dismissals are “possibly in violation of federal law” and help demonstrate that the move “is a glaring sign that it’s a golden age for abuse in government and even corruption.”
The Washington Post, which first reported the firings, said that many were appointees from Trump’s first term. Among those inspectors general reportedly removed included those for the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense and Education.
In a lengthy statement Saturday, Hannibal Ware, the chairman of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, an independent entity that represents the interests of government watchdogs, noted that inspectors general conduct their “oversight in a strictly non-partisan manner. They are appointed, by law, without regard to their political affiliation and, during their tenures, they work effectively across Administrations and with Congress, without regard to political party.”
He suggested that the firings violated the legal requirements that presidents notify Congress 30 days before firing an inspector general and provide a detailed rationale for the decision.”
“IGs are not immune from removal. However, the law must be followed to protect independent government oversight for America,” the statement said.
Spared in this round of dismissals, however, was Michael Horowitz, the longtime Justice Department inspector general who has issued reports on assorted politically explosive criminal investigations over the past decade.
In December 2019, for instance, Horowitz released a report faulting the FBI for surveillance warrant applications in the investigation into ties between Russia and Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. But the report also found that the investigation had been opened for a legitimate purpose and did not find evidence that par -
tisan bias had guided investigative decisions.
“Michael Horowitz we’re keeping,” Trump said Saturday, calling his 2019 findings “such an accurate, well-done report.”
Horowitz’s status aside, the move against the watchdogs drew criticism from congressional Democrats.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., noted that inspectors general are “critical to rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the federal government.” The mass firings were “alarming,” she said.
Rep. Gerald Connolly of Virginia, a Democrat who is the ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, called it a “coup to overthrow legally protected independent inspectors general.”
He also suggested that the move— coming on just the fourth full day of Trump’s second term—could potentially free up a series of positions that can subsequently be filled with loyalists who are strongly sympathetic to the Trump administration.
“Replacing independent inspectors general with political hacks will harm every American who relies on social security, veterans benefits, and a fair hearing at IRS on refunds and audits,” Connolly said.
Still, Trump has aggressively challenged the authority of independent agency watchdog groups in the past.
In 2020, he replaced multiple key inspectors general, including those leading the Defense Department and intelligence community, as well as the inspector general tapped to chair a special oversight board for the $2.2 trillion economic relief package on the coronavirus.
Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts called Trump’s actions “a purge of independent watchdogs in the middle of the night.”
“Inspectors general are charged with rooting out government waste, fraud, abuse, and preventing misconduct,” Warren posted on X. “President Trump is dismantling checks on his power and paving the way for widespread corruption.” Weissert reported from Las Vegas. Associated Press writers Mary Clare Jalonick and Stephen Groves contributed to this report.
Only person in the world with a functioning pig organ is thriving after a record 2 months
ABy Lauran Neergaard AP Medical Writer
n Alabama woman passed a major milestone Saturday to become the longest living recipient of a pig organ transplant— healthy and full of energy with her new kidney for 61 days and counting.
“I’m superwoman,” Towana Looney told The Associated Press, laughing about outpacing family members on long walks around n ew York City as she continues her recovery. “It’s a new take on life.”
Looney’s vibrant recovery is a morale boost in the quest to make animalto-human transplants a reality. Only four other Americans have received hugely experimental transplants of gene-edited pig organs – two hearts and two kidneys – and none lived more than two months.
“If you saw her on the street, you would have no idea that she’s the only person in the world walking around with a pig organ inside them that’s functioning,” said Dr. Robert Montgomery of n Y U Langone Health, who led Looney’s transplant. Montgomery called Looney’s kidney function “absolutely normal.”
Doctors hope she can leave n e w York—where she’s temporarily living for post-transplant checkups—for her Gadsden, Alabama, home in about another month.
“We’re quite optimistic that this is going to continue to work and work well for, you know, a significant period of time,” he said. Scientists are genetically altering
pigs so their organs are more humanlike to address a severe shortage of transplantable human organs. More than 100,000 people are on the US transplant list, most who need a kidney, and thousands die waiting. Pig organ transplants so far have been “compassionate use” cases, experiments the Food and Drug Administration allows only in special circumstances for people out of other options.
And the handful of hospitals trying them are sharing information of what worked and what didn’t, in preparation for the world’s first formal studies of xenotransplantation, expected to begin sometime this year.
United Therapeutics, which supplied Looney’s kidney, recently asked the Food and Drug Administration for permission to begin a trial.
How Looney fares is “very precious experience,” said Dr. Tatsuo Kawai of Massachusetts General Hospital, who led the world’s first pig kidney transplant last year and works with another pig developer, eGenesis.
Looney was far healthier than the prior patients, Kawai noted, so her progress will help inform next attempts. “We have to learn from each other,” he said.
Looney donated a kidney to her mother in 1999. Later pregnancy complications caused high blood pressure that damaged her remaining kidney, which eventually failed, something incredibly rare among living donors. She spent eight years on dialysis before doctors concluded she’d likely never get a donated organ—she’d developed super-high levels of antibodies abnormally primed to attack another human kidney.
So Looney, 53, sought out the pig experiment. no one knew how it would work in someone “highly sensitized” with those overactive antibodies.
Discharged just 11 days after the n o v. 25 surgery, Montgomery’s team has closely tracked her recovery through blood tests and other measurements. About three weeks after the transplant, they caught subtle signs that rejection was beginning—signs they’d learned to look for thanks to a 2023 experiment when a pig kidney worked for 61 days inside a deceased man whose body was donated for research.
Montgomery said they successfully treated Looney and there’s been no sign of rejection since—and a few weeks ago she met the family behind that deceased-body research.
“It feels really good to know that the decision I made for n Y U to use my brother was the right decision and it’s helping people,” said Mary MillerDuffy, of n ewburgh, n ew York. Looney in turn is trying to help others, serving as what Montgomery calls an ambassador for people who’ve been reaching out to her through social media, sharing their distress at the long wait for transplants and wondering about pig kidneys. One, she said, was being considered for a xenotransplant at another hospital but was scared, wondering whether to proceed.
“I didn’t want to persuade him whether to do or not to do it,” Looney said. Instead, she asked if he was religious and urged him to pray, to “go off your faith, what your heart tells you.”
Towana Looney, who received a pig kidney transplant in november 2024, goes over notes about her recovery with Dr. Jeffrey Stern at nYU Langone Health in new York on Friday, January 24, 2025.
Sudan’s largest oil refinery engulfed in flames amid intensifying civil war
By Jon Gambrell The Associated Press
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—
Fighting around Sudan ‘s largest oil refinery set the sprawling complex ablaze, satellite data analyzed by The Associated Press on Saturday shows, sending thick, black smoke over the country’s capital.
Forces loyal to Sudan’s military under army chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan later said they c aptured the refinery, owned by Sudan’s government and the staterun China National Petroleum Corp. The facility represents a long-sought prize for the military in its civil war with the rebel Rapid Support Force, with Burhan himself filmed coming to the outskirts t o celebrate with a crowd.
International mediation attempts and pressure tactics, including a US assessment that the R SF and its proxies are committing genocide, have not halted t he fighting.
Satellite photos show fires burning at refinery
The al-Jaili refinery sits some 60 kilometers (40 miles) north of Khartoum, the capital. The refinery has been subject to previous attacks as the RSF has claimed control of the facility since April 2023 a nd their forces had been guarding it. Local Sudanese media report the RSF also surrounded the refinery with fields of landmines to slow any advance.
But the facility, capable of handling 100,000 barrels of oil a day, r emained broadly intact until Thursday. On that day, an attack at the refinery set fires across the complex, according to satellite data from NASA satellites that track wildfires worldwide.
Satellite images taken by Planet Labs PBC on Friday for the AP s howed vast areas of the refinery ablaze. The images, shot just after 1200 GMT, showed flames shooting up into the sky in several spots.
O il tanks at the facility stood burned, covered in soot.
Thick plumes of black smoke towered over the site, carried south toward Khartoum by the wind. e xposure to that smoke can exacerbate respiratory problems and raise c ancer risks.
In a statement released Thursday, the Sudanese military alleged t he RSF was responsible for the fire at the refinery.
The RSF “deliberately set fire to the Khartoum refinery in alJaili this morning in a desperate
attempt to destroy the infrastructures of this country,” the statement read.
This hateful behavior reveals the extent of the criminality and decadence of this militia...(and) increases our determination to pursue it everywhere until we liberate every inch from their filth.”
T he RSF for its part alleged Thursday night that Sudanese military aircraft dropped “barrel bombs” on the facility, “completely destroying it.” The RSF has claimed the Sudanese military uses old commercial cargo aircraft to drop barrel bombs, such as one that crashed u nder mysterious circumstances in October.
Refinery vital to both Sudan and South Sudan
Ne I T h e R the Sudanese military nor the RSF offered evidence to support their dueling allegations. But on Saturday, multiple videos emerged of Burhan’s forces claiming to have entered the refinery’s co mpound, the sound of heavy gunfire heard in the background. Footage of Burhan himself there showed smoke still rising from the facility in the distance.
Sudan’s military spokesman, Brig. Gen. Nabil Abdallah, also told the AP they had taken control of the refinery. The RSF did not immediately address the claim. Sudan’s military also claimed they h ad broken a monthslong siege on the Signal Corps headquarters in northern Khartoum, while the RSF maintained it was “tightening the noose” around that area.
China, Sudan’s largest trading partner before the war, has not acknowledged the blaze at the refinery. The Chinese Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request f or comment.
China moved into Sudan’s oil industry after Chevron Corp. left in 1992 amid violence targeting oil workers in another civil war. South Sudan broke away to become its own country in 2011, taking 75 percent of what had been Sudan’s oil reserves with it.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres “is following with great concern the recent
e scalation of fighting in Sudan” a statement from his office Friday said, specifically mentioning the oil refinery attack.
The secretary-general urges the parties to refrain from all actions that could have dangerous c onsequences for Sudan and the region, including serious economic and environmental implications,” the statement said.
L osing the refinery would have a major effect on the economies of both Sudan and South Su dan.
“The destruction of the refinery would force the Sudanese people to rely on more expensive fuel imports,” warned
T imothy Liptrot in an analysis for the Small Arms Survey i n May 2024. “As the conflict progresses, a norm that exists among the RSF and (the Sudanese military) against damaging S udan’s accumulated capital is breaking down, with permanent damage to Sudan’s refining infrastructure becoming increasingly possible.”
Sudan’s war sees brutality by fighters
S U d AN h as been unstable since a popular uprising forced the removal of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019. A s hort-lived transition to democracy was derailed when Burhan an d Gen. Mohammed h am dan d a galo of the RSF joined forces to lead a military coup in October 2021.
A l-Bashir faces charges at the International Criminal Court over carrying out a genocidal campaign in the early 2000s in the western d a rfur region with the Janjaweed, the precursor to the RSF. Rights groups and the U.N. say the RSF and allied Arab militias are again attacking ethnic African groups in this war.
T he Biden administration also sanctioned Burhan in its last days over his forces’ “lethal attacks on civilians, including airstrikes against protected infrastructure including schools, m arkets and hospitals.” It also said Burhan’s troops were “responsible for the routine and i ntentional denial of humanitarian access, using food deprivation as a war tactic.”
T he RSF and Sudan’s military began fighting each other i n April 2023. Their conflict has killed more than 28,000 people, forced millions to flee their homes and left some families eating grass in a desperate attempt to survive as famine sweeps parts of the country.
Other estimates suggest a far higher death toll in the civil war.
Press writer Samy Magdy in Cairo contributed to this report.
ThiS Planet Labs PBC satellite image shows a fire engulfing Sudan’s largest oil refinery north of Khartoum, Sudan on Friday, January 24, 2025. Planet
Why senators must act on the universal social pension bill
The sight of 6,000 senior citizens rallying outside the Philippine Senate is a powerful illustration of a neglected commitment. For months, these individuals, the very foundation of our nation, have patiently waited for the passage of house Bill No. 10423 —a bill that would grant a universal social pension to all senior citizens. Their pleas highlight a critical failure of our legislative process and a moral imperative we can no longer ignore. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Senior citizens urge senators to pass universal pension bill,” January 25, 2025).
“There is still time if our dear senators want to pass it because the elders have been patient and waited for the senators to willingly approve it. But it seems that the 19th Congress will just end, without them touching it,” United Senior Citizens Party-list Rep. Milagros Magsaysay, the bill’s author, said in an interview. She said the House of Representatives approved the measure on May 21, 2024 and was received by the Senate the following day.
This delay, eight months and counting, is unconscionable. HB 10423 proposes a modest yet transformative change: a P500 monthly pension for senior citizens not currently receiving assistance, gradually increasing to P1,000 over five years. This is not about charity; it’s about acknowledging the contributions of a generation and ensuring their dignity in old age. The current system, limited to indigent seniors, leaves millions vulnerable to poverty, a stark contrast to the comprehensive social safety nets seen in other countries.
The economic argument for universal pensions is compelling. The World Bank, a consistent advocate for such programs, rightly points out their effectiveness in poverty reduction amongst the elderly. For example, New Zealand, Mauritius, and Mexico City have already implemented successful universal, non-means-tested pension schemes, demonstrating their feasibility and positive impact. These programs offer automatic protection against old-age poverty, a level of security that contributory pensions simply cannot match. Implementing a universal pension system is not only a morally just endeavor, but also a prudent financial investment in fostering a stable and thriving society.
The proposed transfer of pension management from the Department of Social Welfare and Development to the National Commission of Senior Citizens within three years is a further sign of a commitment to efficiency and targeted support. Centralizing this function will streamline the process, ensuring that funds reach those who need them most.
The Senate’s inaction is not merely a legislative oversight—it can be viewed as a moral failing. Our senior citizens have dedicated their lives to building this nation. They deserve better than to be left struggling in their twilight years.
The passage of HB 10423 is not a matter of political expediency; it’s a matter of justice and national responsibility. Our senior citizens have waited long enough. The Senate must rise to the occasion and ensure that the universal social pension becomes a reality, securing the dignity and well-being of our elders who deserve nothing less.
We implore our esteemed senators to take immediate and resolute action, upholding their responsibility to the citizens who have worked tirelessly to build the prosperous nation we are privileged to call home.
BusinessMirror
Cory Aquino’s legacy for modern Filipino leaders
CRISING SUN
ory AquiNo’S legacy, while often celebrated in the context of the People Power revolution and her presidency, holds a deeper resonance for today’s younger Filipinos—millennials and Gen Z—who face a vastly different set of challenges. As we commemorate her birthday anniversary, having been born on January 25, 1933, i find her story offers enduring lessons on leadership, resilience, and collective action that remain profoundly relevant in our current socio-political landscape.
Cory Aquino was not a politician in the conventional sense. She did not aspire to power nor seek it out. Her leadership was thrust upon her by circumstance and the collective will of a nation yearning for change. In an era where political discourse is often dominated by calculated ambition and transactional relationships, Cory’s authenticity is a rare example of leadership grounded in moral conviction. For younger generations increasingly disillusioned by the cynicism of politics, her legacy serves as a reminder that leadership can—and should—be rooted in integrity.
Today’s youth are navigating an age of hyper-connectivity and rapid change. They are exposed to global movements for climate action, social justice, and political reform. In this context, Cory’s ability to galvanize collective action during a national
crisis offers a blueprint for how ordinary citizens can come together to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Her ascent to power was not an individual triumph but the result of collective agency. This concept resonates deeply in an age where grassroots activism is amplified through digital platforms.
But it is not enough to romanticize Cory Aquino’s legacy. Her presidency was fraught with challenges: political instability, economic recovery, and the constant threat of military coups. These struggles highlight an important reality for young leaders today: governance is messy, progress is incremental, and idealism must often contend with pragmatism. I am particularly struck by how her administration laid the groundwork for economic liberalization despite immense political pressure. It was
Cory Aquino was not a politician in the conventional sense. She did not aspire to power nor seek it out. Her leadership was thrust upon her by circumstance and the collective will of a nation yearning for change. In an era where political discourse is often dominated by calculated ambition and transactional relationships, Cory’s authenticity is a rare example of leadership grounded in moral conviction. For younger generations increasingly disillusioned by the cynicism of politics, her legacy serves as a reminder that leadership can—and should—be rooted in integrity.
not perfect—far from it—but it underscores the necessity of balancing vision with practicality.
For millennials and Gen Z who aspire to lead—whether in public service, business, or civic organizations—Cory’s journey offers a valuable lesson in resilience. Leadership is not about avoiding setbacks but learning to navigate them with grace and purpose. Her ability to maintain composure amidst relentless criticism and adversity is something that today’s leaders, often scrutinized under the unforgiving lens of social media, would do well to emulate.
Moreover, Cory Aquino’s story challenges us to rethink what leader-
ship looks like. In an age where charisma and bravado often overshadow substance, her quiet strength reminds us that effective leadership does not always come with loud proclamations or grand gestures. It can be as simple—and as powerful—as listening to others, building consensus, and staying true to one’s principles. As we look toward the future, it is worth asking: what does Cory Aquino’s legacy mean for a generation grappling with issues like climate change, economic inequality, and democratic backsliding? To me, it is a call to action—a reminder that democracy is not a finished product but an ongoing project that requires active participation from all sectors of society. It is also a challenge for young Filipinos to demand more from their leaders while also holding themselves accountable as stewards of the nation’s future. In honoring Cory Aquino’s memory on her birth anniversary, we must move beyond viewing her as merely a historical figure or symbol of democracy. Instead, we should see her as an enduring example of ethical leadership—one that prioritizes service over self-interest and unity over division. And as we mark nearly four decades since the People Power Revolution, let us remember that Cory Aquino’s greatest gift was not just restoring democracy but reminding us all—young and old alike—that its preservation depends on our willingness to fight for it every day.
Trudeau’s cabinet lines up behind Carney as former banker brushes up on French
By Brian Platt & Mathieu Dion
The senior ranks of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet have made their choice on who they believe should replace him as Canada’s prime minister—and they’re throwing their weight behind Mark Carney.
Carney has secured the backing of Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly, Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault, Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson and Labor Minister Steven MacKinnon. He will receive a public endorsement from Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne on Sunday, said a person close to Champagne.
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The support shows that many ministers believe the former central banker is the best bet to counter US President Donald Trump’s trade threats and boost the Liberal Party’s electoral fortunes. They also strengthen Carney’s position in Quebec, traditionally a crucial bastion of Liberal support.
Joly, Guilbeault, MacKinnon and
Champagne are all from the Frenchspeaking province. Carney, 59, who grew up in Alberta, has been working daily with aides on improving his French-language skills, according to people familiar with the matter.
That will matter a lot if he wins the Liberal leadership contest, becomes prime minister and heads into a general election, where he would be up against Pierre Poilievre, a fierce and fluently bilingual debater who leads the Conservative Party, and Yves-Francois Blanchet, leader of the Bloc Quebecois.
Joly, speaking with reporters on Thursday, said it “was a difficult choice” to back Carney over Chrystia Freeland, the former finance minister who entered the race last week.
Carney, 59, who grew up in Alberta, has been working daily with aides on improving his French-language skills, according to people familiar with the matter. That will matter a lot if he wins the Liberal leadership contest, becomes prime minister and heads into a general election.
Joly said she chose Carney due to his proven ability to handle big crises such as Brexit, which unfolded while he was governor of the Bank of England, and the 2008 global financial crisis, which erupted shortly before he became governor of the Bank of Canada.
Guilbeault, a former Greenpeace activist, said he believes Carney is best placed to manage Trump and to steer Canada’s economy through an energy transition in the years ahead. “I’ve known him and I trust him and I have great faith in his abilities,” he said.
The backing of Quebec ministers is important for the credibility of Carney’s campaign—his first attempt at winning political office—as there are still questions about how well he can speak French without a script in front of him. “It should be a source of concern for the Liberals, who badly need Quebec in the next election,” said Jeremy Ghio, a Montreal-based consultant who previously worked as an aide to Joly. No Liberal leader from outside of Quebec has won a general election in Canada since 1965. The Bloc Quebecois, a party that represents Quebec’s interests in Ottawa and promotes the province’s independence, is doing well in public opinion polls and appears set to take seats from the Liberals. Quebec will have 78 of the 343 seats up for grabs in the House of Commons in an election that may happen as early as May. But in addition to improving his
Atty. Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II
Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Founder
Trump’s frenzied debut delights base as thornier decisions await
By Josh Wingrove
the trump show is back in Washington, with familiar set pieces. the new president held court for hours with the press, trolled bankers at Davos, feuded with a bishop and danced with a sword, all with cameras rolling. he signed decree after decree, pulling presidential Sharpies from the wooden cradle on his desk.
The executive order signings showed Donald Trump’s penchant for pageantry—and a leader more familiar with the levers of power, emboldened and gleeful to pull them beyond previous limits. He moved to deny birthright citizenship to some children born in the US, including some whose parents are in the country legally. He freed or cleared 1,500 January 6, 2021, rioters, even those who assaulted police officers, and began dismantling parts of the federal government.
Republicans are jubilant and Democrats are despondent. “It was rolling thunder. It was core issues. It was deep, it wasn’t performative,” said Steve Bannon, a longtime Trump ally and occasional constructive critic. “This shows years of preparation paying off. This is what victory feels like.”
The honeymoon is hardly assured to last. Trump has so far mostly stuck to domestic files and matters that are low-hanging fruit, avoiding drastic steps in the policy areas that would tempt the most backlash from his party, Wall Street or both.
He’s embraced a dovish early approach to China that’s at odds with Republican orthodoxy. At least for now, he hasn’t moved to enact the maximalist raft of tariffs he thundered about on the campaign trail. His plans for a tax overhaul and for ending the war in Ukraine remain unclear.
Meanwhile, fresh fault lines are emerging within his party around his top emissary, Elon Musk, who took the wind out of the sails of one of Trump’s early tech announcements and is at odds with the GOP’s populist wing around issues such as H-1B worker visas.
Delighted conservatives
T RUMP S first week had a domestic focus that reflected his slogan: America First. He declared a national emergency at the southern border, encouraged more fossil-fuel production, delivered a broadside to government diversity programs and ordered federal workers back to the office. He traveled Friday to North Carolina and California, two states dealing with disaster responses, and mused about dismantling the federal disaster agency.
To the extent that he’s made global moves, they’ve reeled in American involvement abroad: He quit the Paris Agreement, demanded NATO more than double defense spending and moved to back out of the World Health Organization. “Ooooo, that’s a big one,” Trump said in delight when the WHO order was presented for his signature.
The blitz of action has made his allies ecstatic. “We had very high hopes,” said Kevin Roberts, president of the Heritage Foundation, the influential conservative think tank. “Those have been exceeded.”
Roberts ticked off a list of orders that have most delighted conservatives: the move to curtail birthright citizenship, which he says takes away an incentive for illegal immigration, as well as “tearing out DEI, root and branch, from every federal agency.”
The birthright citizenship move already has been blocked by a judge, though that won’t be the end of the push. “Most administrations don’t want their EOs to be struck down,” said Alex Nowrasteh, vice president for economic and social policy studies at the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank. “This administration doesn’t care about that.”
Some of the early steps align with suggestions in Project 2025, a playbook compiled by Heritage and other conservative groups. The initiative became a lightning rod during the campaign, leading Trump to distance
Environmental sustainability champions
ahimself from it. Roberts demurred and said he’d leave it to others to assess the project’s impact.
Republican glee is matched only by horror from rudderless Democrats, who are outraged over Trump brazenly freeing the Jan. 6 convicts, abandoning climate and health efforts and ramming through controversial cabinet picks, with little outcry. “He is much more normalized this time around,” Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez lamented in a podcast with Jon Stewart.
Yet he exhibited a sign of his sense of impunity when, on Friday night, Trump fired at least a dozen inspectors general, according to the Washington Post. The watchdog purge further obliterates Trump’s guardrails.
Tariff whiplash
NOW, after Trump’s initial burst, comes the tricky part. That part includes tariff policy, an area where he’s sent mixed signals. He’s pledged to hit Mexico and Canada with 25% levies, while applying either a lower tariff on goods from China or sparing that country entirely from new tariffs.
That whiplash, and the potential he’ll eventually take a more broad-brush approach, is testing the strength of his coalition. “He’s talking 20 percent, higher rates on others, maybe up to a trillion” in new annual revenue, said Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson, who has expressed public misgivings about a full embrace of tariffs.
The White House did not respond to a request for comment.
Trump’s tariffs, and the retaliation they’d likely prompt, could rattle Wall Street—one of few institutions from which Trump craves approval. The S&P 500 had its best start to a presidential term since 1985—an upbeat reception that Trump surely wants to be durable.
But he appears determined, believing tariffs—along with a new, lower corporate tax rate for firms that produce goods in America—will reshape the economy.
This all suggests Trump’s tariff barrage is simply delayed, not deferred, as the administration staffs up. Roberts acknowledged some unease within the conservative movement about a tariff fight erupting by saying Trump might find it best to hit China and Mexico first. Some Trump allies have signaled they’re much more comfortable with Trump wielding the threat of tariffs as leverage than they’d be if he plunged the US into a new mercantilist age.
Other policy questions, too, are poised to expose divisions in his party: Can Republicans deliver on Trump promises—like not taxing tipped income, a pledge he’ll emphasize Saturday in Nevada—while also extending his expiring tax cuts, increasing defense spending and not curtailing Social Security eligibility, all without exploding the already ballooning deficit?
In a sign of how Trump intends to carry out his agenda, there’s virtually no talk of a bipartisan bill, like the infrastructure law former President Joe Biden passed or the semiconductor subsidy bill that Trump may yet try to prune.
With legislative action temporarily on the back burner, Trump has sought to make a splash with pledges of investment in US industries. On Wednesday, he stood with titans of the artificial-intelligence world to announce a planned flagship investment of $500 billion. Musk, who has an AI business of his own, called out companies involved in that plan, saying they don’t have the money to back up their pledge. With assistance from Joshua Green / Bloomberg
Joel L. Tan-Torres
DEBIT CREDIT
Conclusion
notaBle development in the eco-environmental space in the Philippines is the release of the rules on mineral reporting by the Securities and exchange Commission and the Department of environment and Resources. these rules took effect on January 13, 2025, and require mining companies to submit exploration results, both quarterly and annually, as part of their regulatory compliance. these rules were prescribed by the Philippine Mineral Reporting Code 2020 (PMRC). this Code mandates the minimum standards and guidelines for “Public Reporting in the Philippines of exploration Results, exploration targets, Mineral Resources, and Mineral Reserves.”
These rules state that annual reports from mining companies must include exploration results, exploration targets, mineral resources, and mineral reserves. The PMRC rules also mandate the disclosure of environmental, social, and governance considerations, which may be voluntarily included in the companies’ technical reports until they are required to report using a reporting framework in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S1, IFRS S2, and any future sustainability standards to be adopted by the SEC.
The Philippines has been implementing the IFRS 6 since 2006. These accounting and disclosure standards pertain to the “Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral.” The stakeholders of the mining sector in the country have gained a lot of experi-
ence and learning in the implementation of IFRS 6. The International Accounting Standards Board has since completed several projects on extractives with its publication of the results in December 2023.
The two guidelines have provided a lot of insights about the extractive sector that could be shared by the Philippines with the global community. A research of Prof. Stephen Sy of the University of Philippines Baguio Institute of Management provides lessons in the implementation of these guidelines. His paper—“Disclosure Practices of Listed Philippine Mining Companies, 2006 to 2010”—comes out with several recommendations on enhancing the disclosure and reporting of information by mini ng companies.
The government has prioritized the passage of the bills pending in
Bill setting term of office of
With the Philippines being represented in the United Nations Trade and Development International Standards of Accounting Reporting, more entities, from the government and the private sector can be nominated for the ISAR Honors award by the country representatives. There are a number of worthy recipients that can qualify for this award. All are actively pursuing environmental sustainability reporting and measures.
Congress pertaining to the extractive industry. The Department of Finance endorsed the immediate passage of the bill on the rationalization of the mining fiscal regime that proposes to impose a four-tier, margin-based royalty ranging from 1.5 percent to 5 percent on income from mining operations. The government and the mining sector can share their extensive lessons learned and best practices implemented with other countries, with the Philippine representatives being involved in the global organizations like the ISAR.
With the Philippines being represented in the United Nations Trade and Development International Standards of Accounting Reporting (ISAR), more entities, from the government and the private sector can be nominated for the ISAR Honors award by the country representatives. There are a number of worthy recipients that can qualify for this award. All are actively pursuing environmental sustainability reporting and measures. I have previously written in my
barangay
columns that the Bureau of Internal Revenue, with a little more initiative in propagating sustainability reporting and other environmental programs in its tax administration efforts, can be recognized as a deserving ISAR Honors awardee in the coming years. The Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy and the Philippine Institute of Accountants can also be considered for the ISAR Honor award. In 2023, as in past years, ISAR gave the award to two professional bodies, namely the Eurasian Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and the PanAfrican Federation of Accountants. Several corporations in the private sector also deserve this award, with their initiatives of promotion of environmental sustainability projects and reporting. Several corporations, including the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, have been at the forefront of championing ecoenvironmental sustainability initiatives that can qualify for the ISAR Honors award. Indeed, the Philippines has made its mark in the global environmental sustainability community. It is time that the various Philippine stakeholders continue the journey and move forward to assume global recognition and leadership.
Joel L. Tan-Torres was the former Dean of the University of the Philippines Virata School of Business. Previously, he was the Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the chairman of the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy, and Tax partner of Reyes Tacandong & Co. and the SyCip Gorres and Velayo & Co. He is a Certified Public Accountant who garnered No. 1 in the CPA Board Examination of May 1979. He is now back to his tax and consultancy practice and can be contacted at joeltantorress@yahoo.com and his firm JL2T Consultancy.
officials is unconstitutional, deceptive and misleading
By Atty. Romulo B. Macalintal
Senate Bill no. 2816 “setting the term of office of barangay officials and sangguniang kabataan members for six years” is unconstitutional, deceptive and misleading.
The bill is actually one postponing the BSK elections (BSKE) scheduled on December 1, 2025 to May 8, 2029 without complying with the guidelines set by the Supreme Court in its 2023 decision in Macalintal vs. Comelec where it declared as unconstitutional Republic Act (RA) 11935 postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) then scheduled in October 2023.
The bill gives additional four years of service for incumbent BSK officials on a hold-over capacity in violation of the rights of the voters to elect their own barangay officials.
In the said Macalintal case, the SC ruled that “the postponement of the elections must be justified by reasons sufficiently important, substantial or compelling under the circumstances” and that, “shortness of the existing term” is not a “sufficient governmental interest to justify the postponement of an election.”
Senator Imee Marcos, principal sponsor of the bill, defended it by saying that BSK officials would need longer terms “to gain a deeper un-
continued from A12
French, Carney can help himself in Quebec by spending time on the ground there and through policy stances, Ghio said.
He pointed to the tactics of former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper, an Albertan. His French was far from perfect, but in 2006 his government passed a parliamentary motion recognizing Quebec as a nation within Canada, which helped the Conservatives build support there. Freeland, who is seen as Carney’s
derstanding of both national and local issues”, a reason which does not demonstrate any sufficient governmental interest to again postpone the BSKE. If deeper understanding of the issues affecting a locality could not be grasped in three years, how come the term of office of provincial governors, city or municipal mayors and other local elective officials remained at three years only ? It is unfortunate that the bill politicizes the barangays through promises of term extensions for the benefit of incumbent BSK officials. More appalling is what appears to be little to no regard for the SC’s ruling in the Macalintal case.
In that case, the SC held that postponement of an election carried with it “the concomitant extension [of term]” which “may ostensibly cast doubt on the legitimacy of the representative’s continued claim to office” and “foster a government that is not ‘democratic and republican’”. Justice Alfredo Caquioa, in his separate opinion said that Congress “cannot enact laws that extend the
main opponent in the leadership race and is a more fluent French speaker, was Trudeau’s deputy prime minister for five years and was seen by many as the most powerful member of his cabinet.
A handful of ministers have endorsed her, including Justice Minister Arif Virani and Health Minister Mark Holland. Like Freeland, they represent districts in greater Toronto.
Transport Minister Anita Anand, who has a seat in a Toronto suburb, appeared on a video Saturday wearing a Canadian hockey jersey to announce she’s backing Carney. It was Freeland’s scathing resig-
President Marcos should immediately veto such bill because, like his observations in the “woke” sex education bill, Senate Bill 2816 is likewise appalling, shocking and ridiculous. And, in the sterling words of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo in the Macalintal case, “a law changing the schedule of election is a whole different animal (thus) any infringement of the right to vote must be carefully and meticulously scrutinized.”
term of incumbent BSK officials, for they are unconstitutional for violating the democratic underpinnings of our governmental system, wherein elective officials serve by virtue of winning an election.”
For her part, Justice Maria Filomena Singh wrote that “election postponement is a direct infringement, if not total abrogation, of the right to vote, in a manner that makes a mockery of the sacred trust reposed in our elected officials by the voters”, while Justice Japar Dimaampao said that postponing the BSKE “may appear facially neutral (but) such regulation already constitutes an adequate interference or infringement on the right of suffrage.”
nation as finance minister on Dec. 16 that triggered the events that led to Trudeau’s decision to step down and call a leadership race. The prime minister will leave after his successor is chosen on March 9. Her resignation created chaos in the government, as she quit just hours before she was scheduled to deliver a fiscal and economic update to Parliament, leaving Trudeau scrambling to find an emergency replacement as finance minister. She did it in part because Trudeau had been talking privately about moving her to a different job within cabinet and asking Carney to be finance minister.
Both Caquioa and Singh further opined that any law that changes the term of barangay officials must be applied prospectively, that is, to subsequent barangay officials who are to be elected under the new law. Furthermore, Senate Bill 2816 violates the constitutional provision that a bill must not embrace more than one subject which shall be expressed in its title because (a) it provides for the setting of new term of BSK officials, (b) it postpones the scheduled December 2025 BSK elections and (c) it provides for the holdover of incumbent BSK officials. It is what is called in law as “log-rolling legislation”, which on its face seemingly refers to one subject but another or a different one is really embraced in the bill.
Thus, President Marcos should immediately veto such bill because, like his observations in the “woke” sex education bill, Senate Bill 2816 is likewise appalling, shocking and ridiculous. And, in the sterling words of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo in the Macalintal case, “a law changing the schedule of election is a whole different animal (thus) any infringement of the right to vote must be carefully and meticulously scrutinized.”
Atty. Romulo B. Macalintal is an election lawyer.
There are still some bitter feelings within Trudeau’s cabinet over the way Freeland pushed the government into disarray in December, say some senior Liberals who spoke on condition of they not be identified. Others say Freeland is too associated with the unpopular prime minister after nine years in his cabinet, and the Liberals would be better off choosing a leader with less political baggage. Freeland told reporters she’s “grateful to the colleagues who have been supporting me,” and pointed out she also has the backing of multiple regional caucus chairs who play a role in party organizing. Bloomberg
Monday, January 27, 2025
With 3 new RE projects, BOI green lane now covers P4.5T
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THEBoard of Investments (BOI) said it has certified 179 strategic projects worth P4.552 trillion, adding three new renewable energy projects under green lane services in the span of one month.
Ernesto Delos Reyes, Director for BOI’s Investment Assistance Service, told reporters that of the 179 projects certified under the green lane as of January 24, at least 144 are renewable energy (RE) projects worth P4.15 trillion.
In terms of project cost, this was followed by digital infrastructure which has eight certified projects worth P352.13 billion. Meanwhile, while there are 23 certified projects under the Food Security sector, this only translated to a P14.37-billion project cost, contributing .32 percent share—or the smallest share in the project cost of the certified green lane projects.
As to the manufacturing sector, while there are only four certified projects, this translated to P36.91 billion in project cost. In the span of one month, three RE projects were certified under the green lane services with the BOI. This is equivalent to P15.35 billion. By project status, the data provided by Delos Reyes to reporters showed that of the 179 projects certified, six are already operational. Broken down, three of these are RE projects, two are digital infrastructure projects and one food security projects. Under the pre-operation stage, two are RE projects and one is a food security project.
DA eyeing to build P3B worth of cold storage facilities this year
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) plans to build around 99 cold storage facilities worth P3 billion this year to prolong the shelf life of fresh produce and ensure stable supply.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the use of P1.5 billion in unprogrammed funds last year to kick start the cold storage network’s development while the agency allocated another P1.5 billion through the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
“The unprogrammed funds will be spent to build around 65 small or modular chiller-type cold storage facilities across the country and a large cold storage facility to be built in Camarines Sur,” Laurel said in a statement. Two large facilities, one possibly in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, and another in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija— along with around 31 modular units across the country are also lined up. Most of the small facilities are expected to start operating this year.
“By improving the cold chain infrastructure, we will strengthen the agricultural sector, reduce farm losses, extend the shelf life of agricultural products, stabilize supply and prices, and ensure food security,” Laurel said.
The project, which is part of a comprehensive logistics master plan under the agency’s Agriculture and Fisheries Logistics Office (AFLO), also encompasses the development of a road network, agricultural seaports, and an integrated cold chain network to streamline the distribution of farm goods throughout the country. Meanwhile, Laurel said the
cold storage facilities’ key features were sustainability and low cost of operation.
He said the refrigerated warehouses are hybrid infrastructure that could be powered by electricity from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, and those supplied through the grid to ensure efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
“This approach not only addresses immediate agricultural needs but also aligns with broader environmental goals.”
The agency said construction of the large storage facilities is expected to take around 18 to 22 months after awarding the contract. Each facility will have a capacity of 2,800 to 3,500 pallet positions, depending on the products.
“The DA will oversee and manage these mega-cold storage facilities through and in cooperation with local government units, and farmers' cooperatives and associations to ensure efficient operations and community involvement.”
It added that the modular refrigerated warehouses, which are the size of a 40-foot container van, will have a capacity of between 7 to 15 metric tons, depending on the agricultural products to be stored. These warehouses are expected to be operational within three months of construction, allowing for a swift enhancement of cold storage capabilities nationwide.
“As the DA moves forward with these plans, it aims to create a more sustainable and efficient agricultural sector, benefiting both producers and consumers across the Philippines,” the agency said.
“With enhanced cold storage capabilities, the hope is to foster a thriving agricultural economy that can withstand the test of time.”
There are 37 projects under construction, with 19 renewable energy projects; 4, digital infrastructure; 10, food security; and 4 under manufacturing.
In the pre-development stage, there are 133 projects: 120, Renewable Energy; 11, Food Security and 2 under Digital Infrastructure.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed the Executive Order Constituting Green Lanes for Strategic Investments (EO 18) on February 23, 2023.
EO 18 is a government-wide response to enhance ease of doing business in the country by mandating the creation of green lane units in all government agencies that will: expedite, streamline and automate government processes for
strategic investments. Activities considered as strategic investments under the said measure are those that have: a significant capital or investment to the country; consequential economic impact; positive impact on the environment; significant contribution to the country’s balance of payments; with complex technical processes and engineering designs; and will bring about improvement in the country’s infrastructure capabilities.
Delos Reyes said: “With the government’s strategic approach guiding us, we believe in our collective ability to accomplish the goals of EO 18. Together, we aspire to achieve the target timelines for the start of commercial operations of these strategic projects or even sooner than expected.”
EDGARD CABANGON HONORED AS AN EXEMPLARY LEADER
D. EDGARD A. CABANGON, Chairman of the ALC Group of Companies, was recognized as an Exemplary Leader by the Chunnel and Channel Foundation, Inc. at a prestigious ceremony held on January 24, 2025, at the Hotel Casiano & Events Center in Tagaytay City. This recognition honors individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes. Cabangon humbly leads the ALC Group of Companies, a diverse conglomerate dedicated to serving Filipinos through industries such as media, insurance, preneed services, automotive dealerships, banking and finance, pawnshops, hospitality, real estate development, and memorial care, among others. Beyond business, he actively initiates and supports humanitarian causes, reflecting his deep commitment to uplifting communities
PHL, Malaysia tackle new investment areas
By Andrea E. San Juan
THE Philippines is exploring new opportunities that would enhance trade and investment ties with Malaysia, which includes sectors such as semiconductor and logistics, among others, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
During the discussion held in Kuala Lumpur in early January 2025, the Philippines’ Trade Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo highlighted “avenues” for collaboration with companies in the electrical and electronics (E&E) and semiconductor industries as he encouraged them to expand their operations in the Philippines.
From the side of Malaysia, Rohas-Euco Industries Berhad (REI)—one of the firms that participated during the discussion—is exploring opportunities in the Philippines, particu-
larly in the transmission tower projects, the DTI noted. It is a global leader in power, telecommunication, water, and steel fabrication.
Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) President Christina Tee, for her part, highlighted the importance of mentorship and scaling up businesses in the partnership between two nations.
“Micro, small, and medium enterprise [MSME] entrepreneurs often operate with a small business mindset. Our goal is to inspire them to think big, achieve greater goals, and leverage opportunities to expand,” Tee said. Tee offered the Malaysian business group’s experience and networkers to connect MSMEs with larger Malaysian companies for potential partnerships and growth opportunities.
In the area of logistics and warehousing, MICCI Executive Director Lee Han Ling said the
two economies can collaborate on this “significant potential” between Philippine and Malaysian companies in these sectors.
The MICCI President emphasized the “growth potential” for Malaysian export-oriented companies to expand into the Philippines.
However, Tee cited the three requirements for successful expansion: access to materials, availability of labor, and partnerships with local companies.
Rodolfo invited MICCI members from the manufacturing supply chain, construction, and E&E sectors to participate in the 2025 Investment Mission to the Philippines. DTI said this mission, set toward yearend, “aligns” with the Philippines’s assumption of the Asean chairmanship following Malaysia’s tenure.
“Our visit to MICCI is a great opportunity to connect with Malaysian businesses and explore
ways
ALC Group Chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon (left) receives Exemplary Leader award from Chunnel and Channel Foundation, Inc. led by Dr. Ronnel Ybanez.
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
B1 Monday, January 27, 2025
PH1World to build condos
By VG Cabuag @villygc
PH1World Developers Inc. (PH1WD), the property development arm of listed Megawide Construction Corp., will launch at least P14.3 billion worth of projects, including high-rise condominiums, this year.
Edgar Saavedra, PH1WD chairman, said the company plans will roll out three projects--two vertical projects and one horizontal project.
tial enclave that is near the Ortigas central business district.
Lykke Kondo will have 504 units, divided into the three towers.
Each floor will have 18 units, offering studio, one-bedroom and twobedroom units. Lykke Kondo will also have 630 parking slots.
PH1WD expects to generate P11 billion in sales from Lykke Kondo.
In Cavite, the company expects to generate P1.5 billion from the first phase of its condominium project, the 10-hectare One Lancaster Park in Imus.
of one- and two-bedroom units.
When finished, the entire property will have 15 eight-storey buildings with basement parking.
Another Cavite project by PH1WD is the five-hectare Southscapes Trece Martires, which will be offering house and lot units with a floor area ranging from 62 square meters to 90 square meters. It will have a lot that ranges between 50 square meters and 132 square meters.
Saavedra said Southscapes will generate P1.8 billion in sales.
Kia PHL bullish on prospects for 2025
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
KIA P hilippines expressed optimism that its existing models and its electric vehicle lineup will allow the company to post strong growth this year.
with models that address the aspirations of Filipino motorists.” Looking ahead, Zara said Kia is hopeful to “carry this success into 2025 and beyond.”
On the models that propelled the growth of the auto brand in 2024, the car brand said the Kia Sonet, since its launch in June 2024, has “emerged as a formidable player” in the Philippine automotive market.
In Pasig, the company is launching the three-tower Lykke Kondo, 28-storey Scandinavian-designed high rise residential project.
Located near Marcos Highway and Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig City, Lykke Kondo positions itself as a residen-
“We can dictate on the design because we are also a developer. Unlike if you are just a contractor, you are just limited. Now, if we apply the engineering excellence and then we can control on the cost, on the margin, even if it’s just small, then we you can give a good price with good quality,” Saavedra said.
One Lancaster Park is the first and only condominium project in Lancaster New City, which PH1WD is developing in partnership with Famtech Properties Inc. for the first phase.
PH1WD will construct and manage the property’s inaugural towers 1 and 2, with each offering 191 units
He said most of the buildings will use 90 percent pre-cast technology.
“In Megawide, we do production (of prefabricated materials). If you look at the precast, our set-up is like a factory, not construction. That is the key there. If we have the volume, and then you’re doing the production with the right methodology,” Saavedra said.
Tera 7 to invest in Pangasinan solar project
TEr A renewables 7 Corp. (Tera 7), a subsidiary of CleanTech
Global renewables Inc. (CTGr I), is putting up a solar power project in Pangasinan worth P17.62 billion.
In its environmental impact statement, the proposed Labrador 1 solar power project will have a peak capac-
ity of 451.38 megawatt (MW), with construction envisioned to commence this year. Once completed in 2026, Tera 7 said its solar power project will offer Luzon with a reliable and affordable baseload power supply, “addressing the additional capacity required in Luzon to meet power demands annual growth rate
increase.”
The Labrador 1 solar power project has been issued a solar energy operating contract by the Department of Energy (DOE) in 2023. Tera 7 is now applying for an amendment of the solar contract to include additional lands, with the project area totaling 296.45 hectares (ha) from
Kia Philippines, a subsidiary of ACMobility--Ayala Corp.’s automotive arm, said its sales last year grew by 33 percent year-on-year and reached a record-high of 6,692 units.
In addition, the South Korean car brand said December 2024 marked its “highest-ever” monthly sales in the Philippines as it sold 805 units in the said month alone.
“This record-breaking performance further solidifies Kia Philippines’ success in the market under ACMobility’s leadership, which has been steering the brand since January 2019,” Kia Philippines said in a recent statement.
In fact, the company said this model has occupied 23 percent of the market since its launch in the entry-level B-SUV segment, placing second or comprising nearly one out of every four subcompact SUVs sold in the Philippines.
By the end of December 2024, Kia Philippines it sold 3,823 units of the Kia Sonet.
Antonio Zara III, Head of Automotive retail Distribution at ACMobility said the performance of Kia’s vehicles in 2024 proves that the brand “has resonated well with Filipino consumers.”
“Surpassing 800 unit sales in a single month is a testament to the hard work of our team and dealer partners, and it highlights the momentum we’ve built in the market
AT Ericsson, we are pleased to be a partner to the Philippines on its 5G journey to realize the Government’s Digital Philippines Vision. 5G will be the enabler for the digital transformation of Philippines and a driver of inclusive economic growth.
Digital transformation is the closest thing to a silver bullet for tackling big global challenges, helping countries and enterprises unlock economic growth and provide opportunities for people to earn, learn and socialize. There are many enablers for digitalization like IoT, Cloud Computing, AR, data, digital skills etc., but amongst all the enablers the most critical is connectivity.
An Ericsson Study indicates that a 10% increase in mobile broadband adoption can increase economic growth (GDP) by up to 0.8% (Source: Ericsson)
For a digital economy to thrive, continued investment must be made to enhance and upgrade digital connectivity, particularly as technology evolves. Technological advancements such as 5G will be a key enabler for the digital economy in the Philippines.5G is a platform to
connect everything that can be connected, from everyday wearables to industrial machinery, and delivery drones to logistical robots.
High-performing, highcapacity connectivity based on 5G is foundational for digital transformation. It allows technologies such as AI, Cloud to be leveraged at scale on top of the secure, reliable, and always available 5G network, thereby opening new possibilities for consumers and enterprises.
According to Ericsson’s report: 5G for business: a 2030 market compass, the 5G incremental revenue based on 5G for service providers in Philippines is USD2.6Billion up to 2030. The study also identified that 5G applications such as enhanced video services and real-time automation will emerge as the greatest opportunity across sectors like
manufacturing, healthcare, transportation etc. Philippines has a good digital nation strategy but has to fully leverage 5G as critical national infrastructure to accelerate the digitalization of the country. Countries should set the connectivity ambition bar as high as possible, rolling out connectivity fast and at scale.
Clearly 5G is mainstream with more than 320 service providers globally having launched commercial 5G services. With 5G, we are seeing the fastest growth of any mobile generation. We are seeing massive 5G adoption globally with 5G subscriptions expected to reach close to 2.3 billion this year, accounting for more than 25 percent of all mobile subscriptions. However, in the Philippines, 5G subscriptions currently stand at around 13 million, contributing 9 % of the total mobile subscriptions.
With the spectrum being available, more affordable 5G smartphones becoming available in the market and a maturing 5G eco system, the time to invest in 5G is now. It is also an opportune time to make 5G investments in the country basis the growing customer demand for mobile connectivity and data services in the Philippines.
We are expecting the data usage to in the country to grow at a CAGR of 20% between 2023- 2029.This will create congestion in the networks unless Service Providers offload the growing data traffic from 4G to 5G thereby providing better coverage and better consumer experiences in addition to driving digitalization of the country.
Given the availability of spectrum, accelerated 5G deployment in Philippines could bring immediate benefits to consumers and enterprises in Philippines.
5G sets the stage for more
the original 271.94 ha. The project is expected to be commercially operational in 2026. “The construction activities are scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2025 and will end in the first quarter of 2026. The project is targeted to be ready for commercial operations in 2026,” it said in a filing. Lenie
“This milestone firmly establishes the Sonet as the 4th best-selling subcompact SUV of the year and the best-selling model introduced by Kia in the Philippine market,” Kia said, adding that the Sonet’s monthly sales tripled those of its “predecessor,” the Kia Stonic.
As to Kia’s performance in the electric vehicle market, the car brand said it has “made remarkable strides” as it launched its electrified lineup including the Kia EV6, EV9, and the Kia Carnival Turbo Hybrid in November.
Lectura
Ericsson: Well poised to support Philippines digitalization journey
immersive entertainment, more engaging education and bridging the knowledge divide. For consumers, this translates to faster download speeds, smoother video streaming, and more responsive gaming. Emerging formats such as 4K, 360-degree experiences, and multi-view videos are increasingly driving usage and 5G data consumption.
Better connectivity translates to improved education through remote learning, smarter cities, improved public services, greater digital inclusion and better quality of life. According to an Ericsson Consumer Lab Study, the 5G network satisfaction among consumers has experienced a consistent year-on-year improvement of 10 percent in most markets.
When it comes to enterprises,
5G is the foundation for flexible efficient operations, increasing productivity, improving knowledge base and ensuring cost savings. For example, digitalization will create opportunities to transform healthcare in the Philippines by enabling the transition from offline to online care for patients.
The manufacturing industry stands to benefit from the deployment of Industry 4.0 concepts and technologies, deriving new level of efficiencies, quality improvement and higher productivity. 5G is the common thread underpinning the success of new and exciting enterprise use cases and solutions due to its seamless, reliable, and secure connectivity.
The mobile advantage includes unrivalled coverage, performance,
security, reliability and scalability–all backed up by global standards, future-proof roadmaps, as well as diverse and versatile ecosystems.
5G is the most secure mobile network ever, with security built-in from the start. With that as the base, at Ericsson, we build and provide mobile systems that can be trusted by our customers – trusted to support critical infrastructure and Philippines as a nation.
Ericsson is well poised to support CSPs in the Philippines to seamlessly transition to 5G given our technology leadership and global deployment experience. As Ericsson, we are trusted by leading CSPs and nations to deliver secure and resilient 5G networks.
We look forward to partnering with Philippines on its digitalization journey.
DANIEL Ode, Head of Ericsson for Singapore, Brunei, Philippines and Head of Global Customer Unit (GCU)
Banking&Finance
New list of tobacco, vape traders issued by the BIR
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
HE Bureau of Internal Revenue
T(BIR) has updated the list of registered manufacturers, importers and exporters of tobacco and vapor products who must comply with the requirements amidst the proliferation of illicit products.
Internal Revenue Commissioner
Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. issued Revenue Memorandum Circular 008-2025 dated January 20, to “intensify the campaign of the BIR against illicit tobacco products.”
The circular emphasizes that tobacco and vapor products must comply with the requirements of displaying graphic health warnings on cigarette packs and affixing the BIR tax stamps, except for novel tobacco products, cigars and chewing tobacco products.
Under the updated list of domestic manufacturers of locally-produced cigarettes, the BIR included the following: Associated Anglo-American Tobacco Corp.; JT International Philippines Inc.; MPE Trading Inc.; PMFTC Inc.; Rolyo Cigarette Inc.; Telengtan Brothers and Sons Inc.; Vidda Resources Inc.; and, Yosimite Oriental Supersystem Inc.
The BIR also identified the PMFTC and Telengtan Brothers as export manufacturers of locally-produced cigarettes.
Cigarette manufacturers registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority include the following: Baisisen Global Corp.; Fourthstripe Manufacturing Corp.; Gold Tree Tobacco Manufacturing Corp.; Golden Leaf Manufacturing International Inc.; Hongcim Int’l Corp.; JT International Asia Manufacturing Corp.; Magnum Tobacco Manufacturing Corp.; Noble Leaf Manufacturing Inc.; One Subic Premier Manufacturing Corp.; Pan Subic Brothers Manufacturing Corp.; Prudence Development and Management Corp.; Thaitian Cigarette and Tobacco Corp.; and, TM8 Enterprises Inc.
Importers of cigarettes include: 20 S Inc.; 3M’s and Are Distribution Corp.; Duty Free Philippines Corp.; Goldtree
Import and Export Inc.; Indigo Distribution Corp.; JT International Philippines; Kenstand Philippines Inc.; PhilOne Extreme Corp.; Pixel Export, OPC; PMFTC Inc.; Really International Phil. Corp.; Stable East Tobacco Trading Corp.; Sunshine Bay Philippines Inc.; Tobias Tobacco Trading Corp.; Vidda Resources Inc.; Winning Touch International Marketing Inc.; and, Zhongdingtong International Trade Philippines Corp.
Meanwhile, the BIR has also identified 39 manufacturers and 64 importers of vapor products.
There are also 16 importers of heated tobacco products, three importers of novel tobacco products, three manufacturers of cigars, 12 importers of cigars, 18 manufacturers of chewing tobacco and four importers of chewing tobacco.
According to the BIR, manufacturers, importers and exporters of cigarettes, heated tobacco products, vapor products, novel tobacco products, cigars and chewing tobacco products must comply with the requisite registration of brands and variants thereof within six months from the release of the circular to avoid penalties for noncompliance.
Newly-registered manufacturers and importers of such products after January 20, 2025, shall be included in the updated list on the BIR website, it added.
The BIR recorded a P51.3-billion shortfall in excise tax on tobacco in 2024.
The Bureau only collected P134 billion, lower by 27.68 percent than the P185.3 billion goal.
The BIR chief said smokers who quit, consumers’ shifting preferences and the rise of illicit tobacco trade have resulted in the decline of excise tax collections.
To plug the leakage, lawmakers proposed a moratorium to suspend the annual 5 percent increase in cigarette taxes in 2026 and impose a single excise tax on vape products containing any liquid substance, regardless of nicotine content, including nicotine-free liquids.
Various health advocates and groups denounced the measure, arguing that stringent enforcement will address the growing illicit trade.
Foreign loans amount OK’d by MB down 5.56% in 2024
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE Monetary Board (MB) approved a total of 21 foreign loans in 2024, according to the latest data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
The BSP said these loans amounted to $13.68 billion in 2024, a 5.56-percent decrease from the $14.49 billion recorded in 2023.
In the last quarter of 2024, the MB approved six foreign loans amounting to $3.21 billion, a 3.35 percent decline from the $3.32 billion foreign borrowings approved for the same period last year.
“Under Section 20, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, prior approval of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, through its Monetary Board, is required for all foreign
TBy Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
HE Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has issued a warning to the public about the rising cases of loan scams circulating on social media and fraudulent SMS messages masquerading as coming from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI).
CICC Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos cautioned individuals to be wary of loan offers that appear “too good to be true,” emphasizing
to address the issue.
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
TAKING up the cudgels for cooperatives playing key role in promoting economic growth and livelihood generation, Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian has filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into a requirement by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) that Gatchalian said imperils the tax exemption privileges of cooperatives.
Gatchalian specifically refers to the requirement for cooperative members to present a tax identification number (TIN) when obtaining a “Certificate of Tax Exemption” (CTE).
The BIR, through Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) 124-2020, stated that the TIN requirement is based on a provision of the National Internal Revenue Code, which states that any person required under the Code to make, render, or file a return, statement, or other document must be assigned or supplied with a TIN.
However, Gatchalian emphasized that the submission of TINs by all members of cooperatives is not a prerequisite for tax exemption under Article 60 and Article 61 of the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.
“The tax exemption granted by law to cooperatives is under threat because of this BIR requirement,” the senator said, as he filed Senate Resolution 1236
IGatchalian also pointed out that most members of registered cooperatives are individuals from the informal sector of the economy, who often see no need to obtain a TIN.
“Cooperatives are designed to empower our poor constituents, especially those in the informal sector. But the BIR requirement has created a lot of confusion and discouragement. For example, if you have market vendors as coop members, you cannot just force them to get a TIN,” he explained, citing complaints from cooperatives in Valenzuela.
According to the Senate Committee on Ways and Means chairperson, there have also been reports of Revenue District Offices (RDOs) refusing to accept TIN applications from cooperatives. Some RDOs reportedly impose a limit on the number of TIN applications a cooperative can process each day, prioritizing other taxpayers instead. Further, Gatchalian highlighted concerns about the unavailability and frequent downtime of the BIR’s online registration and update system, which hinders cooperatives from processing TIN applications on behalf of their members. The BIR requires cooperatives to secure proper authorization from members before applying for their respective TIN.
N today’s topsy-turvy credit world, risky bonds are outperforming safe ones in periods of volatility. The reason? An increasing focus on interest income, or carry in industry parlance. Strong inflows into credit funds have compressed spreads—the premium for buying corporate debt rather than safer government bonds—so much that further tightening looks unlikely. That’s left money managers seeking other ways to beat their benchmarks. Low-rated and junior bonds are increasingly attractive to them because the higher coupons they typically pay help offset falling values when yields move up. The trend is so powerful that highyield securities dropped less than their blue-chip counterparts during the worst of the bond selloff earlier this month, even though the companies that issue them are more likely to go bust. A similar story is playing out with subordinated securities, which have performed strongly under a measure that compares investment returns with risk known as the Sharpe ratio.
“This is reinforcing the view that carry
LAL-LO, Cagayan—The Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) announced it has launched a capacity-building program to “equip agricultural players with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed for sustained growth and success.”
In a statement, the state-run lender said it launched its “Agri-Fishery Support thru Capability Enhancement for Nationwide Development” (Ascend) program, which addresses the “critical need for tailored interventions among agricultural stakeholders to ensure productive and profitable agri-business ventures.”
The LandBank said the program is in line with Republic Act 11901 (“The Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development (AFRD) Financing Enhancement Act of 2022”).
Under the program, the bank targets to support at least 10,000 small farmers, fishers, and agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) nationwide annually starting this year.
LandBank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz led the launch of the program last Friday at the Lal-lo Municipal Gymnasium here.
According to the lender, the event gathered around a thousand stakeholders in the agriculture sector from Cagayan and key representatives from other government and private partners.
is the flavor of this year. The lowest-risk assets”—sovereign bonds—“have been the most volatile and you have recently got the best Sharpe ratios in things like CoCos,” said Ninety One portfolio manager Darpan Harar. CoCos, an abbreviation of contingent convertibles, are a type of subordinated note issued by banks. Risky bonds are usually what investors
loans to be contracted or guaranteed by the Republic of the Philippines,” the BSP said.
“Similarly, Letter of Instruction 158 dated January 21, 1974 requires all foreign borrowing proposals by the National Government, government agencies and government financial institutions to be submitted for approval-inprinciple by the MB before commencement of actual negotiations,” added the central bank.
The foreign borrowings approved in 2024 consisted of two bond issuances worth $4.5 billion; 11 project
that scammers are enticing victims with promises of low-interest rates, fast approvals, and minimal requirements. These scams often include a link in the SMS message, which, when clicked, steals personal and banking information.
“We are reiterating our appeal to the public never to click links attached to SMS. Banks will never send clickable links through SMS or email,” Ramos said. “Huwag na pong matigas ang ulo para iwas sa scam.” Financial scams have been on the rise in the Philippines, with cyber-
loans, $5.32 billion; and eight program loans, $3.86 billion.
According to the BSP, the decrease was due to lower program and project loan approvals. Approved project loans amounted to $3.86 billion while project loans $5.32 billion in 2024.
The program loan approvals contracted 19.92 percent from the $4.82 billion approved in 2023 while project loans 6.17 percent from the $5.67 billion in 2023.
“[These] offset the increase in bond issuance—from $4 billion in 2023 to $4.5 billion in 2024,” the BSP said in a statement.
Meanwhile, in terms of purpose, the approved borrowings for 2024 is intended to finance the government’s general financing requirements amounting to $4.5 billion or 32.89 percent followed by infrastructure projects, including transportation at $4.35 billion or 31.79 percent of the total.
The borrowings will also finance economic recovery and development through policy reforms, environmen-
criminals exploiting social media platforms and mobile messaging to deceive victims.
Recent data from authorities show that phishing and SMS spoofing remain among the top cybercrimes, targeting unsuspecting individuals by pretending to be reputable institutions.
BPI has also issued an advisory to its customers.
“If there’s a link, don’t overthink—that’s a scam,” the Ayala-led financial institution said.
Ramos further advised individu-
Ortiz said that through the program, the lender aims “to elevate the livelihoods of local agricultural producers, empowering them to maximize their full potential and actively contribute to national economic growth.”
“This complements our continued efforts to provide accessible financial assistance and other meaningful support interventions across the agriculture value chain,” she added.
The Ascend program, according to
tain strategy.
“People are starting to realize that credit spreads are not the volatile part now, the volatile part is the risk-free rate. It’s completely turned upside down,” said Flavio Fabbrizi, head of corporate debt capital markets for Europe at HSBC Holdings
the LandBank statement, delivers holistic support through six integrated components. The training and upskilling component provides technical training to strengthen individual and organizational capabilities, while the digital financial literacy component equips beneficiaries with essential skills for more effective financial management.
The program also employs “stakeholder mapping” to classify beneficiaries
tal protection and climate resilience projects and programs amounting to $2.98 billion or 21.79 percent of the total; education and healthcare projects and programs, $1.36 billion or 9.94 percent; and agrarian reform and maritime safety projects, $0.49 billion or 3.59 percent.
The BSP assured that it promotes the judicious use of the resources and ensures that external debt requirements are at manageable levels, to support external debt sustainability.
In the third quarter, the BSP said the higher issuance of government debt papers has led to a 36- percent increase in public sector foreign borrowings approved by the MB.
The BSP said approved public sector foreign borrowings reached $3.81 billion in the July to September period this year, higher than the $2.81 billion posted in the same period last year.
However, the increase in approved loans was slower compared to the second quarter, which recorded a 43-percent growth.
als to apply for loans only through legitimate channels by contacting their banks or accredited lending institutions directly.
“This process may take sometime and you may be asked to submit certain requirements. But that is the legitimate way of applying for a loan,” he said.
Victims of loan scams or other cybercrimes are encouraged to report incidents by calling the Inter-Agency Response Center hotline 1326, which operates 24/7, including weekends and holidays.
based on their capacity levels and financing access. Insights from this process will be utilized in “module development” to create customized training materials. The modes of training delivery include classroom sessions, virtual platforms, hands-on activities, demonstrations, coaching, and mentorships. To ensure sustainable outcomes, the program incorporates a monitoring and evaluation component to assess the effectiveness of training modules and track the progress of beneficiaries. Additionally, the “market linkage” component connects beneficiaries to market opportunities through business clustering and other schemes.
According to the Landbank, the Ascend program serves as the capacitybuilding component of another of the lender’s program. The latter, called “Agrisenso Plus,” features expanded eligibility, lower interest rates, and simplified loan process to provide broader access to credit and other support interventions for all players in the agriculture value chain. Eligible beneficiaries of the Ascend program include ARBs, duly registered farmers, as well as members of their household and their micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and agrarian reform communities, according to the LandBank.
This January 24, 2025, photo courtesy of the Land Bank of the Philippines shows Landbank President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz (left) sharing a light moment on stage. To her left is Agriculture Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro. CREDIT: LanD Bank of ThE PhILIPPInEs
Trump 2.0: More organized, still controversial–what his first week reveals
By Zeke Miller & Josh Boak The Associated Press
President donald trump’s first week in office isn’t over yet, but already it offers signals about how his next four years in the White House may unfold.
Some takeaways from the earliest days of his second term:
He’s emboldened like never before
Within hours of being sworn in, tr ump pardoned more than 1,500 people who were convicted or charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol by his supporters. t h ose pardoned include people who attacked, bloodied and beat police officers that day. t h e Republican president’s decision was at odds with earlier comments by his incoming vice president, JD Vance, and other senior aides that tr ump would only let off those who weren’t violent.
t h e pardons were the first of many moves he made in his first week to reward allies and punish critics, in both significant and subtle ways. it s ignaled that without the need to worry about reelection—the Constitution bars a third term—or legal consequences after the Supreme Court granted presidents expansive immunity, the new president, backed by a Republican Congress, has little to restrain him.
tr ump ended protective security details for Dr. Anthony Fauci, his former Covid-19 adviser, along with former national security adviser John Bolton, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his onetime deputy. t h e security protections had been regularly extended by the Biden administration over credible threats to the men’s lives.
tr ump also revoked the security clearances of dozens of former government officials who had criticized him, including Bolton, and directed that the portrait of a former Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, retired Gen. Mark Milley be removed from the Pentagon walls.
He’s way more organized this time
i n h is first days in office, tr ump demonstrated just how much he and his team had learned from four often-chaotic years in the White h o use and four more in political exile.
A president’s most valuable resource is time and tr ump set out in his first hours to make his mark on the nation with executive orders, policy memoranda and government staffing shake-ups. it r eflected a level of sophistication that eluded him in his first term and surpassed his Democratic predecessors in its scale and scope for their opening days in the Oval Office.
Feeling burned by the holdover of Obama administration appointees during his first go-around, tr ump swiftly exiled Biden holdovers and moved to test new hires for their fealty to his agenda.
i n a m atter of days he uprooted four years of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across the federal government, sent federal troops to the US-Mexico border and erased Biden’s guardrails on artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency development.
i n h is first term, tr ump’s early executive orders were more showpieces than substance and frequently were blocked by federal courts. t h is time, tr ump is
still confronting the limits of his constitutional authorities, but is also far more adept at controlling what is within them.
But Trump is still Trump
An hour after concluding a relatively sedate inaugural address in the Capitol Rotunda, tr ump decided to let loose.
Speaking to an overflow crowd of governors, political supports and dignitaries in the Capitol Visitor Center’s Emancipation h a ll, tr ump ripped in to Biden, the Justice Department and other perceived rivals. h e f ollowed it up with an even longer speech to supporters at a downtown arena and in more than 50 minutes of remarks and questions and answers with reporters in the Oval Office.
For all of tr ump’s experience and organization, he is still very much the same Donald tr ump, and just as intent as before on dominating the center of the national conversation. i f n ot more.
Courts may rein Trump in or give him expansive new powers
hE h as acted to try to end civil service protections for many federal workers and overturn more than a century of law on birthright citizenship. Such moves have been a magnet for legal challenges. i n t he case of the birthright citizenship order, it met swift criticism from US District Judge John Coughenour, who put a temporary stay on tr ump’s plans.
“ i ’ve been on the bench for over four decades. i can’t remember another case where the question presented was as clear as this one is,” Coughenour, who was nominated by Republican President Ronald Reagan, told a Justice Department attorney. “ t h is is a blatantly unconstitutional order.”
h o w those court cases play out will determine not only the fate of some of tr ump’s most controversial actions, but just how far any president can go in push -
ing an agenda.
Trump is betting that oil can grease the economy’s wheels and fix everything
t h E p resident likes to call it “liquid gold.”
h i s main economic assumption is that more oil production by the United States, the Saudis and the rest of OPEC would bring down prices. t h at would reduce overall inflation and cut down on the oil revenues that Russia is using to fund its war in Ukraine.
For tr ump, oil is the answer.
h e ’s betting that fossil fuels are the future, despite the climate change risks. “ t h e United States has the largest amount of oil and gas of any country on Earth, and we’re going to use it,” tr ump said in a t h ursday speech. “ n o t only will this reduce the cost of virtually all goods and services, it’ll make the United States a manufacturing superpower and the world capital of artificial intelligence
and crypto”
The problem with billionaires is they’re rivals, not super friends tRUMP h ad the world’s wealthiest men behind him on the dais when he took the oath of office on Monday.
te sla’s Elon Musk, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg and LVM h s Bernard Arnault were all there. SoftBank billionaire Masayoshi Son was in the audience. Later in the week, Oracle’s Larry Ellison and OpenA i s Sam Altman appeared with Son at the White h o use to announce an artificial intelligence investment of up to $500 billion.
Musk, the tr ump backer who is leading the president’s Department of Government Efficiency effort, posted on X that SoftBank didn’t have the money. Altman, a rival to to Musk on A i , r esponded over X that the funding was there. By surrounding himself with the wealthiest people in tech, tr ump is also stuck in their drama.
“ t h e people in the deal are very, very smart people,” tr ump said t hursday. “But Elon, one of the people, he happens to hate. But i have certain hatreds of people, too.”
Trump has a thing for William McKinley A M ER i C A S 2 5th president has a big fan in tr ump. tr ump likes the tariffs that were imposed during Republican William McKinley’s presidency and helped to fund the government. tr ump has claimed the country was its wealthiest in the 1890s when McKinley was in office.
But McKinley might not be a great economic role model for the 21st century.
For starters, the ta x Foundation found that federal receipts were equal to just 3% of the overall economy in 1900, McKinley’s reelection year. ta x revenues are now equal to about 17 percent of the US economy and that’s still not enough to fund the government without running massive deficits. So it would be hard to go full McKinley without some chaos.
As Dartmouth College economist Douglas i r win noted on X, the economic era defined by McKinley was not that great for many people.
“ t h ere was a little something called the Panic of 1893 and the unemployment rate was in double digits from 1894-98!!” i r win wrote. “ n o t a great decade!”
Presiden T donald Trump holds a sabre after using it to cut a cake
FENDI APPOINTS STRAY KIDS’ BANG CHAN AS BRAND
AmBASSADOR
GLOBAL lifestyle brand Fendi has announced Bang Chan, leader and member of the K-pop boy band Stray Kids, as its new brand ambassador.
Christopher Chahn Bahng, widely recognized as Bang Chan, has made significant waves in the music industry as a singer, rapper and composer, rising to prominence as the leader of Stray Kids in 2018. Beyond his contributions to Stray Kids, Bang Chan has showcased his versatility by writing and producing for various artists, affirming his exceptional talent as a songwriter and producer. With his dynamic personality and distinctive fashion sense, Bang Chan has positioned himself at the forefront of the K-pop entertainment landscape. The relationship between Bang Chan and Fendi began in June 2024 with his debut appearance as front row guest at the Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2025 fashion show in Milan. Since then, he has been seen wearing Fendi at various public appearances, including Stray Kids World Tour <dominATE> and music festivals, such as I-Days Milano 2024 and BST Hyde Park 2024, seamlessly integrating the brand’s codes and aesthetic into his personal style.
This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for both Fendi and Bang Chan, promising innovative collaborations that will resonate within the realms of music and fashion.
“I felt an immediate connection to Fendi with its creative and fun spirit, and it is my honor to join the Fendi family in its 100th anniversary year which makes it even more special,” said Bang Chan.
In the official visuals, Bang Chan wears a full Fendi look from the Men’s Spring/Summer 2025 Collection: a brown and beige striped cotton knit featuring a green collar and Fendi Crest patch, paired with a white shirt and a green striped tie and complemented by stitched jacquard shorts and Fendi Force sneakers with Selleria craftsmanship. He elevates the look with the Maison’s iconic bags—a Baguette Double in black Cuoio Romano and a Peekaboo Soft Small in yellow Cuoio Romano featuring the Fendi Crest, both adorned with Ito dog and ice-cream fun bag charms. A set of accessories, from the FF and FENDI Hexagon fashion jewellery lines, including a ring, earring and bracelet, complement the look with a youthful and effortless Gen Z style.
Whenever I attend beauty events, very few of the guests (media, bloggers, and content creators) wear lipstick these days, with most sporting gloss or oil on their lips.
Lip Maxx, the newest lip product from Get Ready With Me Cosmetics, is riding this trend but with a difference. Lip Maxx is not a lip oil nor a lip gloss. It is a liquid lip balm.
Lip Maxx is infused with vitamin E and grapeseed oil for hydration and protection. The jumbo applicator
Biracial Beauty Jarina Sandhu is Queen Isabela 2025
CITY OF ILAGAn, ISABeLA An “outstanding and inspiring” student leader taking up tourism management at the Isabela State University-Cauayan Campus was crowned Queen Isabela 2025.
Jarina Kumari Sandhu, an exquisite mix of Indian and Filipino, emerged victorious among 33 candidates from all over the “Queen Province of the North” at glittering rites at The Capital Arena.
Toward the end of the pageant, Jarina was also declared Miss Universe Philippines Isabela 2025 and will have the right to represent the province at the national finals.
“The journey may be tough, but the victory is sweeter when we refuse to let hardships dim our light,” the biracial beauty stated when she won Mutya ng Cauayan 2024. “Indeed, the journey was not easy. I faced a lot of challenges, shed a lot of tears, and received multiple criticisms. I had to balance my time between joining other competitions and being a student, a leader, a daughter, and a friend. But those hardships became my steppingstones toward my victory.”
The title of Queen Isabela Culture & the Arts 2025 went to Johnlene E. Ariola of the City of Ilagan. Queen Isabela Tourism 2025 is Mhira Angelene P. Valenciano of Cordon. The First runner-up is Jhudiel eunisse M. Taguinod of echague, while the Second runner-up is Criselle Anne Gregorio of Ramon.
The rest of the Top Ten were Ashlee B. Infante of Alicia, Harriette M. Baquiran of Tumauini, Princess Daine S. Antolin of San Mateo, Richmie A. Malsi of Santo Tomas, and Angel Gutierrez of Naguilian.
‘HAKOT’ AWARDS
THE grand coronation night, with overall direction by Nilo Agustin, staging by Matthew Manalaysay and artistic direction by Albert Andrada, was held on January 25. City of Ilagan Mayor Josemarie L. Diaz and Isabela Vice Gov. Faustino “Bojie” Dy III led the political and society leaders who graced the event.
It was hosted by GMA star Rayver Cruz and Binibining Pilipinas InterContinental 2019 Emma Tiglao. The pageant is a major highlight of the province’s annual celebration of its Bambanti Festival, which honors its hardworking farmers. From the onset, Cauayan and City of Ilagan were neck and neck in contention for the top crowns. Both bagged the lion’s share of special and corporate awards.
Jarina of Cauayan won Miss Pua Aesthetics Ambassadress, Miss Multi Cuisine, Social Media Muse, Best in Evening Gown (by Albert Andrada), and Best in Swimwear (by the Head Qarters).
Johnlene of the City of Ilagan won Best in Casual Wear (by Albert Andrada), Best in Creative Attire (wearing the “Queen Isabelle” creation by Ces Cesar), Miss Kape Ilocano and Miss Skinnovation. Miss Congeniality is Aira Joy Mariano ng Dinapigue while Miss Photogenic is Angel Gutierrez of Naguilian. Jorick Lopez Limpag, the designer behind Ang Himig sa Dalisdis/”Dalisdis (ni Isabela) worn by Rica Minerva Florendo of San Agustin, won Best Creative Attire.
BEHIND THE CURTAIN
I WAS privileged to be part of the selection committee during the preliminary round, which included the closed-door interview, swimsuit and casualwear categories. My co-panelists included acclaimed actress and great beauty Angel Aquino, Miss Universe 2013 Third runner-up Ariella Arida, new York-based civil engineer Danny Pagsambugan, new Yorkbased lawyer Nora Galleros, fashion designer Albert Andrada and Aliki Pappas, the stunning wife of Hellenic Republic Ambassador Ioannis Pediotis. It was clear from the prelims that Ilagan’s gorgeous Johnlene was emerging as a strong contender. But Cauayan’s ebullient Jarina won over the judges with her refreshing candor and compelling personality.
I got to ask her two questions: “You’ve been likened to Ahtisa Manalo (Miss International 2019 First runner-up) and harnaaz Sandhu (Miss Universe 2021)—which other beauty queens do you most admire except for panelist Ara Arida?” and “You’ve been generating the most buzz among the candidates—do you consider yourself the frontrunner and how do you intend to keep the momentum?”
For the first question, Jarina cited Maria venus Raj (who’s also half-Indian) for her courage in fighting to keep her crown in 2010; and that to ensure her victory,
she left nothing to chance and came fully prepared and adequately trained to clinch the title.
During the deliberations, seven of the Top 10 bets made the cut. The others who almost got in were Julia Katrina Primero of Aurora, Diosa L. Mamauag of Jones, and Lovely Joy T. Viernes of Benito Soliven.
WINNING ANSWER
AT the coronation night, the head judge was the iconic Margarita “Tingting” Cojuangco. However, it was Arnel Papa, accessories and crown designer, who asked the pivotal question to Jarina, the undisputed frontrunner: Are the youth of this generation more pressured to perform than the youth of previous generations?
Jarina’s winning reply was: “For me, I do believe the youth of today are not pressured in every challenge than the other generations because we have the courage inside us. Like me, I am an Isabelina and I have the courage within me that I don’t let the fear control me and I am here standing before you overcoming my fears. Having courage means that you don’t fear. Having courage means that you don’t let fear ruin you. I am here standing in front of you and I am ready to conquer the stage. I will spread my wings and soar higher!” n
promises ease of use and makes on-the-go touch-ups more foolproof.
Lip Maxx was created with the tropical climate of the Philippines in mind, because if offers a refreshing cooling sensation that’s perfect for humid days. At first I was afraid that the menthol would irritate my lips and cause it to be dry in the process but, surprisingly, this did not happen.
The brand, in fact, has issued the following disclaimer: Lip Maxx contains menthol. Avoid using it if you have a menthol allergy, cracked, wounded, or chapped lips as it may cause irritation.
Lip Maxx comes in 13 shades: Hello, Apollo (warm light caramel brown), Mimosa (neutral coral pink), Bellini (warm strawberry pink), Maui (warm muted almond brown), Slush (warm burnt coral), Kismet (cool wine brown), Hot Choco
pinkish and nude shades like
Tto-Tto, and Slush were the first to sell-out but give the brighter ones like Kismet (my favorite) and Hello, Charlie a chance. Lip Maxx retails at P399 each. You can get it on TikTok Shop, Lazada, and Shopee.
TOPCHIC: THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONALS
AS someone who has colored my hair for years, it’s surprising that I have not heard of professional hair color manufacturer Goldwell until recently. My colleague goes to this posh salon that’s very popular for hair color and Goldwell is the brand that they use. Goldwell is considered one of the leaders in breakthrough hair color innovation, and it has just celebrated the 50th anniversary of its iconic in-salon color system Topchic. To hair color professionals, Topchic is synonymous with vibrant, long-lasting hair color achieved by its innovative and user-friendly formulas. Hair color achieved with Topchic is characterized by intense hues, excellent evenness, ultimate durability, and superior coverage with every application.
In 2023, Goldwell launched its TopchicZero range of professional products based on formulas that contain up to 94 percent naturally derived ingredients.
All TopchicZero products are climate neutral. According to Goldwell, this is achieved by reducing carbon emissions from raw materials, packaging, production, transport, and disposal, and by compensating unavoidable emissions to zero through carbon offset projects in cooperation with ClimatePartner.
TopchicZero is a zero-ammonia, vegan hair color that promises to provide exceptional performance, beautiful color, coverage and shine with a formula featuring the same trusted performance of Topchic permanent hair color. It offers three levels of lift in 30 minutes or less, 2x hair shine, and 100-percent natural, reliable grey coverage.
Goldwell is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Luxe Beauty Ventures Inc. Salon owners and hair stylists may get in touch with them through sales@luxebeautyventures.com.
(neutral cocoa brown), Love, Charlie (neutral cherry red), Fringe (cool rouge pink), Frisbee (cool cherry red), Tto-Tto (neutral muted nude rose), Confetti (cool dusty mauve), and Disco Ball (clear with fine shimmers). Not surprisingly,
Confetti,
CLOCKWISE: Queen Isabela 2025 and Her Court; Best in Gown Jarina Kumari Sandhu wearing Albert Andrada; and Best in
Increased openness and transparency in the government
THIS coming February 5, 6, and 7, the Philippines will host the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting (APRM), with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) spearheading the monumental event.
The Summit will convene government leaders, civil society leaders, policymakers, and global and regional partners from across Asia and the Pacific “to exchange experiences, best practices, and progress on open government initiatives and implementation on key issues.”
The OGP is an international movement established in 2011, with the Philippines standing proudly as one of its eight founding nations, alongside Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States. It is built on the principle that open governance is the key to an accessible, responsive, accountable, and reliable government.
Fundamental to the OGP vision is improving the government’s relationship with its citizens. Without the people’s trust and confidence, there cannot be a solid government. The OGP, thus, champions transparent, participatory, and inclusive governance.
Last September 2024, the Philippines successfully joined the OGP Steering Committee, which is the governing body of the organization. The Committee is responsible for the development,
n FI l I pI no art Is t MU r I to per F or M at 2025 s o U t h by s o U t hwest (s X s w ) M Us I c Fest I va l MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Filipino rising artist MURI is set to take the stage at the 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival in Austin, Texas, from March 10-15, 2025.
The AXEAN Festival alumna joins an impressive roster of international talents, showcasing her unique blend of soul, indie, and jazz-pop music to a global audience.
“I feel incredibly honored to have been chosen and to be representing the Philippines on such an international stage,” MURI shares in an official statement.
“I’m excited because SXSW is one of the biggest festivals for artists to showcase in, and it’ll be my first time going. Aside from playing, I’m also pretty excited to be there as an attendee, watch other artists perform, and attend all the cool talks and presentations.”
As she prepares for this significant milestone, MURI hints at even bigger plans for her music in 2025, including collaborations, new music releases, and performances all
around the world. “I’m working on a few collaborations and new music this year. I’m planning to do more shows and perform in more stages around the Philippines and Europe.”
As the resident violinist of Filipino indie-folk band The Ransom Collective, MURI has recently stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist with the release of her debut EP, 11ème. The project, which deals with themes of personal growth, loss, and discovery, takes listeners on a journey through the artist’s experiences across different cultures and cities. Blending soulful pop with intricate storytelling, 11ème serves as a deeply personal reflection of MURI’s travels and relationships.
With her upcoming appearance at SXSW 2025, Muri is poised to introduce her music to a broader international audience, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year of artistic growth.
n I bpap and Goo G l e partner to U p sk I ll FI l I pI no I tbpM work F orce
MANILA, PHILIPPINES—The IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) and Google announced a new collaboration to upskill Filipino talent in the IT-BPM sector. This initiative is a crucial part of IBPAP’s Roadmap 2028, which aims to advance the industry’s talent development and
promotion, and advancement of OGP’s strategic direction. It also promotes collective action on policy development through various events in which ministers and heads of state participate. Being a member of the prestigious OGP Steering Committee, the Philippines holds the opportunity to lobby and impart its expertise as a democratic country.
In the Philippines, the current administration is focused on upholding the right of the people to participate in policy-making decisions. To support this goal, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos, Jr. institutionalized the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PHOGP) through Executive Order (EO) No. 31, s. 2023. This ensures that open government values are embedded in the country’s policies and programs.
Equally dedicated to the values of open governance is the PH-OGP Chairperson, DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman. Her initiatives have shown unparalleled commitment to the President’s vision of transparency and accountability.
In just a short period, Secretary Pangandaman has introduced radical transformation within the DBM. She has started digitalizing transactions involving budget processes, such as the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), and upskilling the stakeholders through the nationwide conduct of the Public Financial Manage -
global competitiveness.
Google, through Google Career Certificates, will provide industry-recognized certifications in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, data analytics, IT support, UX design, and project management among others,enabling Filipinos to excel in the evolving global ITBPM landscape. The program also includes access to Google AI Essentials course on Coursera to equip Filipinos with AI skills.
“IBPAP is proud to work with Google to strengthen our talent pool with essential skills for higher-value IT-BPM roles,” said Jack Madrid, President and CEO, IBPAP. “This partnership is key to reinforcing the Philippines’ position as a global IT-BPM leader, ensuring our workforce remains competitive.”
“Google is dedicated to fostering growth in the Philippines through AI and upskilling initiatives. Our collaboration with IBPAP exemplifies this commitment. By equipping Filipinos with in-demand skills, we hope to contribute to the country’s economic progress and digital future.” said Jackie Wang, Country Director, Google Philippines and Thailand.
“The Philippines is an important player in the global IT-BPO economy, supporting countless products and operations. By upskilling our workforce with in-demand skills, we’re maintaining our competitive
ment Program. Most importantly, Secretary Pangandaman was the one who strongly initiated the institutionalization of the PH-OGP.
Due to these collective efforts, the Philippines ranked first in budget transparency, “not only in Southeast Asia but in all of Asia,” according to the latest Open Budget Survey.
To further set in stone its dedication to fostering open governance, the Philippines has warmly embraced the initiatives under the banner of “OGPinas!” This nationwide advocacy campaign engages civil society leaders and local government representatives, especially in the farthest regions of the country.
Since 2023, OGPinas! has conducted 14 advocacy activities under the leadership of PH-OGP Chair Secretary Pangandaman, encouraging Local Government Units (LGUs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to join the OGP.
As of April 2024, the campaign has inspired four new LGU members, namely, Tagbilaran, Larena, Quezon City, and Baguio, joining South Cotabato, a member since 2018. With five LGUs now part of the OGP, their continued participation strengthens CSO involvement in shaping local policies to enhance the delivery of essential services.
To mainstream open government initiatives, the PH-OGP Steering Committee, along with
edge as a global industry leader, driven by top-tier talent and costefficiency,” said Pat Choa, Site Lead for Google Philippines.
This effort comes at a pivotal period for the industry. While the IT-BPM sector reached $38 billion in revenue and employed 1.82 million people in 2024, bridging the skills gap remains essential for achieving the Philippine IT-BPM Roadmap 2028’s aggressive targets of $59 billion in revenue and 2.5 million jobs. The initiative with Google is set to enhance the Philippines’ capacity to meet these goals and further establish it as a premier destination for high-complexity IT-BPM services.
n r o b I n c h ’I na M e d as ManaG I n G dI r ector o F wa rner M Us I c h o n G ko n G HONG KONG—Warner Music Hong Kong today announced the appointment of Robin Ch’i as the new Managing Director, effective immediately. He will report to Simon Robson, who oversees Warner Music Group’s recorded business in the APAC region until a permanent appointee is chosen.
Gordon Lee, an industry veteran who has served as Managing Director since 2003, will be retiring after two decades in the role. Gordon leaves behind a remarkable legacy that has helped shape the company into a key player in the Asian music industry.
the PH-OGP Secretariat, developed several strategies in the 6th PH-OGP National Action Plan[1] (NAP). Formulated through the recommendations of various stakeholders and key experts from both sectors, this Action Plan highlights solutions that unswervingly respond to the country’s emerging problems.
The contributions of the PHOGP were acknowledged by the current administration with the inclusion of participatory governance as a key strategy in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. In response, PH-OGP committed to continuing its collaborative practices and encouraging more regional and local agencies to participate in formulating the national action plan.
Despite the numerous initiatives to continuously improve the delivery of government services, it cannot be denied that there are still ongoing national and global concerns that need to be addressed. With the OGP Regional Summit, neighboring countries, including the Philippines, are given the opportunity to discuss and address the pressing issues that affect the Asian Region.
For the Philippines, the Summit is a chance to collaborate with foreign government and civil society leaders and learn from their best practices. It is a chance to foster meaningful discourse and motivate every Filipino to voice
Under Gordon’s leadership, Warner Music Hong Kong emerged as a prominent force in the region. He was instrumental in establishing the company’s artist management department, fostering the careers of many amazing artists, including Janice Vidal, Khalil Fong, Pakho Chau, and more recently, Dear Jane, Kaho Hung, MC Cheung Tin-Fu, and Panther Chan. His visionary approach consistently brought new artists into the spotlight, achieving the remarkable feat of breaking superstars every two years.
Gordon’s tenure was marked not only by artistic achievements, but also by notable financial growth, with the company expanding its revenue by 2.5 times in the last five years. His commitment to talent development and innovation has set a high standard in the field.
Robin Ch’i steps into the role after a 15-year career on the label side at Warner Music Group (WMG), starting as an A&R Manager and most recently serving as Director, A&R, Brand and Business. Prior to that, he worked for four years as a creative executive at Warner Chappell Music, the music publishing arm of WMG, where he developed a strong eye for emerging artists.
Robin has been integral to scouting new talent and the artistic development of recording artists, while also managing brand and business strategies for a well-rounded ap -
out their ideas that could help the administration.
OGP is more than just an institution. It is an instrument of democracy. It is the government’s feedback mechanism where anyone is free to voice their opinions on public matters without fear of retaliation.
The OGP serves as the government’s ally in introducing policies designed to improve the country’s bureaucracy through the responsible exercise of democracy. By engaging with the OGP, the Philippines paves the way for an open and responsive administration that delivers better services and creates better opportunities for its citizens. With the support of the Filipino People, and with OGP’s guidance, the Philippines gears towards a better future, a Bagong Pilipinas.
PR Matters is a roundtable column by members of the local chapter of the United Kingdom-based International Public Relations Association (IPRA), the world’s premier association for senior professionals around the world. Wilford Will Wong works as an Undersecretary at the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
We are devoting a special column each month to answer the reader’s questions about public relations. Please send your comments and questions to askipraphil@gmail.com.
proach to artist growth.
Gordon Lee says: “Music has always been a source of magic for me; it’s not just my career, but a passion that enriches my life. I’m grateful to everyone at Warner Music Group, especially my dedicated team, whose support has been invaluable. I also want to thank our artists for their trust, allowing us to help them realize their dreams. I have personally chosen Robin as my successor; he has been closely inv olved in the development of many artists and the business alongside me, and I am confident he will excel in this role.”
Robin Ch’i adds: “I’m eager to take on this challenge and lead Warner Music Hong Kong forward. I look forward to building on Gordon’s incredible legacy and continuing to support our talented artists as they pursue their dreams.” Simon Robson concludes: “Gordon’s impact on the music industry is significant, and we are thankful for his dedication. We are sure that Robin will lead the company with the same passion and commitment, ensuring we continue to support artists and innovate in this dynamic industry.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Gordon will work closely with Robin and will stay with Warner Music Hong Kong until the end of March to support a seamless handover, fostering the continued growth and success of the company.
Editor: Jun Lomibao
Sports BusinessMirror
Yulo, Olympians shine in PSA Awards Night
CARLOS YULO will be the best and the brightest as the double gold medalist gymnast at the Paris 2024 Olympics raises the Athlete of the Year trophy in the San Miguel Corp.-Philippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Awards Night on Monday at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel.
Yulo leads a generous list of awardees—including three-time Executive of the Year Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC)—in the gala night organized annually by the country’s oldest media organization headed by Nelson Beltran, sports editor of The Philippine Star.
Yulo, a 24-year-old pride from humble Leveriza in Manila, carved out the Philippines’ first ever double gold medal in Paris in a fitting highlight to the country’s centennial participation in the quadrennial showcase.
T he historic feat deserves no
less than a grand celebration in the biggest PSA Awards Night ever mounted by the sports writing community and co-presented by ArenaPlus, Cignal and MediaQuest.
The awards proper starts at 7 p.m. W ith the theme “Golden Year, Golden Centenary,” the formal event that counts a total of 117 awardees, will have the country’s treasured Olympians serving as the special guests of honor who will be recognized for their hard work and sacrifices in representing the Philippines at the highest level of sports.
Members of the Philippine team to the Olympics in the last 60 years will be represented by their respective batches and join the Paris 2024 contingent, along with the bets in the Paralympics, in sharing center stage during the program made possible by the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, PLDT/Smart and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, with support from the Philippine Basketball
Frenchman Sale triumphs, Tabuena salvages 5th spot
By Aldrin Quinto
CARMONA, Cavite—From the brink of an early exit days ago, Miguel Tabuena finished with a flourish at the Manila Southwoods with Julien Sale of France surviving a nervy finish for a career-altering victory in the Smart Infinity Philippine Open on Sunday.
Sale surged ahead by three as he went 4-under on the back nine of the challenging Masters Course but had to scramble for bogey on the closing hole to submit a 67 for an 11-under 269 total for his maiden professional title, a stroke clear of Sadom Kaewkanjana of Thailand and Japan’s Tomoyo Ikemura.
K aewkanjana fired a 67 and Ikemura had a 68 to tie for second at 10-under 270.
The revival of the Philippine Open provided a huge turnaround for Sale, a 27-year-old from Reunion Island who had battled on the Challenge Tour, the second tier in Europe, before deciding to seek a place in the Asian Tour through qualifying last year.
Just a month after Q-School in Thailand, Sale has greatly boosted his stock because with the $90,000 top prize from the $500,000 pot comes major privileges.
Sale now has a shot in even bigger events—from being a reserve for the International Series event in India, he enters as an Asian Tour winner, playing among stars that includes Tabuena.
“This win means a lot,” Sale said. “Now I’m going to be able to play every single event, whereas before this week I didn’t know which one I was gonna get in.” This is gonna change things a lot. I will be able to schedule my year much easier.”
Still, Sale needed to overcome nerves on the 72nd hole before nailing the win, giving himself a scare when he hit his drive right and had to drop.
“ That was my worst drive of the week but managed to lay up to a good distance. In the end I just told myself I can’t three-putt this.”
Top five finish for Tabuena
A SMALL crowd gathered around the tee
mound on No. 1 early Sunday morning to see Miguel Tabuena in action. By the third hole, there was already a sizeable gallery walking the Masters Course behind the two-time Philippine Open champion.
Tabuena gave the gallery plenty to cheer about, playing the front nine in three-under before hitting a snag on No. 10 with a three-putt bogey.
H e finished birdie-birdie for a 66 and a seven-under 273 total for joint fifth place worth $17,133.33, an incredible performance after making it to the weekend play right on the number.
It was a bit of a battle for me, on and off the golf course with the expectations from everyone and myself,” said Tabuena, seventh on the Asian Tour Order of Merit last season and second the year before. Tabuena, who trains under coach J3 Altea, credited his team for helping him get back on track. With a new driver in play after equipment staff discovered a crack in his gamer, Tabuena had a tough opening four-over 74 before finding his groove with middle rounds of 68-65. Still it was a good week. If you’re top 10 for the week after nearly missing the cut. I’m really proud of my team,” Tabuena said.
L ike Julien Sale, the 30-year-old Tabuena has little time to recover as he travels to India on Monday and play the pro-am the next day.
It was nice to dust off some rust from the holidays and I can’t wait to start in Delhi,” Tabuena said.
A lso finishing at seven under were Poom Saksansin of Thailand, who shot a closing 67, and Ian Snyman of South Africa, who had a closing 68. Strong finish for Adric Chan AIDRIC CHAN also did a splendid job, posting a second Philippine flag in the top 10 as he matched Miguel Tabuena’s 66. The 6-under 274 total put him in a tie for eighth with Kazuki Higa of Japan (69), Scott Vincent of Zimbabwe (66), Danthai Boonma of Thailand (62) and China’s Bowen Xiao (67).
Promise of flag football
the global and Philippine sports landscape, more so with us since we love to copy what is popular in the United States. For the longest time in the US, the big four sports were American Football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. The arrival of Major
Association, Premiere Volleyball League, 1-Pacman Party List, Rain or Shine, Akari and AcroCity.
Former Senator Freddie Webb, who played for the men’s basketball team in the Mexico 1968 and Munich 1972 Olympics, is the keynote speaker for all the Olympians.
Legendary weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, the Filipino athlete who broke the barrier when she gifted the country its first ever Olympic gold in Tokyo 2020, will have her special moment in the star-studded affair as she will be formally enshrined into the PSA Hall of Fame.
The 33-year-old Diaz is a four-time winner of the Athlete of the Year (2016, 2018, 2021 and 2022).
Boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas will also be feted with the President’s Award for their bronze medal achievements in Paris, while Tolentino is again the 2024 Executive of the Year for his continued hands-on leadership in guiding Philippines sports to bigger breakthrough and greater
glory as magnified by the two golds and two bronzes in last year’s Olympics.
T he Gymnastics Association of the Philippines will be hailed as the National Sports Association of the Year and joins June Mar Fajardo and Kevin Quiambao (Mr. Basketball), Jia Morado-De Guzman (Ms. Volleyball), Rubilen Amit and Carlo Biado (billiards), Melvin Jerusalem and Pedro Taduran (boxing), Daniel Quizon (chess), Rianne Malixi (golf), Tachiana Mangin (taekwondo) and jockey John Alvin Guce, Batang Manda and Benhur Abalos (horse racing), who will all be handed out with Major Awards.
A lso included in the year’s PSA honor roll are the National Collegiate Athletic Association and MVP Group for Special Awards, 19 Citations and seven recipients of the Tony Siddayao Awards.
A ll awardees, officials and guests who didn’t personally get their invitations may claim them at the registration desk of the Centennial Hall.
Charity golf helps Baguio City media members’ recovery
CPro-am lifts lid on 20th edition of PGT flagship TCC Invitational
THE Country Club (TCC) Invitational pro-am tees off Monday at the TCC course to usher in the 20th staging of the Philippine Golf Tour’s (PGT) flagship tournament in the City of Santa Rosa.
L ike in the previous year, the event pairs one professional and one guest amateur, creating a dynamic and engaging competition that challenges both skill and strategy.
Breaking away from the conventional pro-am format of one pro and three amateurs, the tournament introduces a new team dynamic aimed to enhance camaraderie among participants and provide a more competitive environment where the skills of both amateurs and pros are tested equally.
Such a setup amplifies the stakes, as players are encouraged to contribute meaningfully to their team’s success, fostering a sense of collective achievement.
The top 30 players from last year’s PGT Order of Merit are each paired with one guest amateur from the sponsoring International Container Terminal Services Inc. Th is strategic pairing not only strengthens the bond between sponsors and players but also creates
a platform for amateurs to experience professional-level competition alongside the sport’s elite. The 18-hole event isn’t just for fun—it’s the ultimate warm-up for the P6-million championship that kicks off on Tuesday.
Defending champion and 2024 Order of Merit winner Tony Lascuña leads the charge, alongside recordchasing three-time TCC Invitational titlist Angelo Que and two-time champion Guido van der Valk. W ith a stellar lineup, the stakes are higher than ever, as players vie not just for bragging rights but also to gain vital momentum and confidence for the grueling 72-hole main event.
The field also includes top talents like Clyde Mondilla, Rupert Zaragosa, Keanu Jahns and Daiya Suzuki, to name a few. Emerging stars Sean Ramos and LJ Go bring fresh energy to the mix, ensuring a thrilling contest.
L aunched in 2003 by ICTSI chairman and CEO Ricky Razon to honor his father, Don Pocholo, the TCC Invitational has grown into an iconic annual event. It brings together the nation’s finest and emerging golf talents, fostering the development of the sport while preserving its legacy.
Ancajas TKOs Mepranum in Iligan fight
By Josef Ramos
JERWIN “PRETTY BOY” ANCAJAS showed he still packed the power of a world champion that he was by beating Richie Mepranum via second-round technical knockout to snatch the Philippine super bantamweight crown at the Public Plaza in Iligan City on Saturday night.
“I fought with caution, but seriously, against Mepranum, who still has those power punches,” Ancajas, 33, told BusinessMirror on Sunday. “So I gave everything I had and landed that deadly body shot. I never expected the fight to end early.”
M epranum, a veteran at 37, looked no match against the pride of Panabo City, a ninetime International Boxing Federation super flyweight champion.
A fter both boxers got their feel in the first round, Ancajas stalked Mepranum, who managed to trade punches in the second round before getting caught with a solid punch to the mid-section that
forced him to his knees. He grimaced in pain forcing referee Delbert Pelegrino to stop the fight. I nternational matchmaker Sean Gibbons was pleased with Ancajas’ performance. We’re now planning to send him to US again and train again,” Gibbons said. “Ancajas needs to train and condition himself at the Knuckleheads gym.”
A ncajas, who improved to 36-4-2 win-lossdraw record with 24 knockouts, said he would heed whatever his trainer manager Joven Jimenez and Gibbons decide on his future. I will wait for their decisions,” he said. “I will be ready for any opportunity, anytime and anywhere.”
A ncajas is now 2-0 since losing a title opportunity to Takuma Inoue last February in Japan—he beat Sukpasried Ponphitak of Thailand by disqualification in Mandaluyong City last September.
B8
Monday, January 27, 2025
ARCHITECT JOSE CARLO S. MATEO | CEO, MANA CONSULTANCY, INC.
DESIGNING THE FUTURE
By John Eiron R. Francisco
IN the world of architecture, a stereotype persists: that architects are often introverted and more comfortable behind their drafting tables than in front of crowds.
Architect Jose Carlo S. Mateo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mana Consultancy Inc. (MCI), on the other hand, strikes a different figure— one that encourages aspiring architects to step up and be seen with their work.
With over two decades of experience in the industry, Mateo told the BusinessMirror that thriving in such a demanding industry entails going beyond creativity and having the technical skills. The willingness to “come out of one's shell” to grow personally and professionally is also essential.
He reflected on the insights of a seasoned colleague, Jose Pedro "Bong" Recio, who pointed out that collaboration and leadership are critical in this field. “Staying in the background can limit your opportunities,” Mateo noted.
“Architecture isn’t just about design—it’s also about having the confidence to lead and make your presence felt in every project.”
Mateo advocates continuous self-improvement as a cornerstone of success. "Invest in yourself and dedicate time to training. While you learn a lot on the job, additional training will give you an edge." he added. “Public speaking, for instance, is a vital skill—it helps you communicate your vision clearly and inspires trust in your team and clients.”
Mateo, the youngest of four siblings, hails from a lineage profoundly entrenched in the art of architecture. Both his elder sister and brother pursued the same profession, all under the guiding influence of their father, the renowned architect Orly Mateo.
His father's mentorship has indelibly shaped Mateo’s approach to design and leadership. His years of invaluable insight instilled a deep reverence for balance in architecture and nurtured an impeccable attention to detail, qualities that remain foundational to MCI’s philosophy to this day.
Mateo holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Sto. Tomas. He also completed specialized studies in Applied Project Management at Ateneo CCE, Construction Contract Administration at the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore, and Development Management at the Asian Institute of Management.
He honed his leadership skills in Fit-Out projects for multinational corporate offices. In 2007, he was made Managing Partner at MANA Architecture & Interior Design Co. Today, as MCI’s CEO, he continues to champion excellence in architecture, interior design, master planning, and project management. For Mateo, success lies in finding the balance between artistry and leadership, and he hopes to inspire the next generation of architects to step confidently into roles that demand both.
His transition from managing a small team of 12 to overseeing over 27 architects marked significant changes, not only in his responsibilities but also within the organization itself. What began as a single studio has now expanded into several studios within the firm.
In the past, he recalled, much of his management efforts were focused on working with his partners, with less emphasis on overseeing staff. However, in his current role, he has developed a vision for the entire team.
As leaders, one of our biggest responsibilities is to develop our architects," he said, noting that he usually conducted one-on-one sessions to guide his team effectively.
Mateo considers the most rewarding aspect of his leadership to be "seeing our senior architects come out of their shell." He proudly points out that a significant portion of their senior architect group consists of women, a development he is particularly proud of.
'Balancing growth with personalized attention' Meanwhile, architect Amelie April Mateo, Operations Director at MCI, shared the challenges they encountered when transitioning from MANA Architecture & Interior Design in 2005 to an incorporated firm in 2022. While the shift made operations more practical, it also re-
vealed an important issue: a departmentalized approach stiffles the growth of its Architects.
She noted how their training was structured in a studio setup, where they were involved in every stage of the process, from conceptualization to the completion of the work.
We experienced the entire process, from concept to execution," she said. However, rapid growth that calls for a more departmentalized structure would limit the exposure and learning of architects to departmental activities the architects are in. Some teams became specialized in creativity, while others lacked strength in areas like contract administration or construction.
This is what we wanted to avoid with our team. We aim for holistic growth, just like how we were trained," she explained.
Mateo also acknowledged these challenges but pointed out the blessings of having architect Dennis Anaya, design director at MCI, on board. Anaya spent 17 years honing his design skills at one of the country’s most prolific design firms (former Recio-Casas, now Rchitects Inc.), where he went through the ranks until he served as Design Head before he made his transition to MCI. Coming from a large organization,he brings valuable insights from big firm settings. Together, they have merged these lessons to create an efficient approach that they believe helps the team grow and succeed in delivering the best outcome for the Client.
Excellence and a Bold Vision for innovation
This year, the MCI formerly known as MANA Architecture & Interior Design, celebrates two decades of excellence in the industry. Over the years, the firm has become synonymous with innovation, quality, and expertise in architecture, planning, interiors, and project management.
On what sets MCI apart from other firms in the industry, Mateo emphasized the importance of providing 'personalized attention.' He explained that while the firm aims to grow aggressively, they are determined not to lose their unique, hands-on approach.
The need for efficiency in big firms results in a highly corporate structure, where the Architects get stuck with the limitations of their department, and the clients get passed on from one department to the next without even knowing it—a situation MCI actively strives to avoid.
Our vision as partners is to develop wellrounded architects," he continued, highlighting that their goal is for each architect within the firm to build meaningful relationships with clients, seeing them not just as projects, but as personal connections to nurture. We find that this brings out the best outcome for our clients.
Anaya on the other hand emphasized that MCI is a relatively young firm constantly pushing for innovation, in contrast to more established players. Officially incorporated in 2022, MCI prides itself on being part of a new generation of architects determined to shape the future of design.
“We’re a new breed if clients who want innovation,” he said.
Reflecting on their careers, Anaya shared that there is always something new to learn in the field of architecture. He admitted that while there are things he wished he had known earlier, the profession is a continuous learning journey. "Even if I knew something back then, it might have helped a little, but you need to keep on exploring, experimenting and learning new things to complement what you already know and propel your innovative ideas forward ," he said.
MCI Operations Director Amelie Mateo likewise emphasized the importance of learning through experience. She remarked, "You have to charge it to experience… we may be relatively young but the grit that we have in our youth allowed us to gain a wealth of experience."
When it comes to management, she also agrees with 's advice to invest in oneself, espe-
You can challenge the design direction with the intention to reinforce where we’re taking it. But always align with the design intent across all levels.”
cially while young, as it helps maintain the energy needed for growth.
Anaya added that learning never stops, even after many years in the field. "It's an ongoing process," he remarked. "We're still learning, and it's never too late to learn more."
Championing Filipino architecture’
As the industry continues to evolve, MCI remains committed to its vision of elevating Filipino design and draws from the diversity of our Filipino heritage to inspire modern Filipino Architecture. Mateo expressed his hope that "through Filipino Elevated Architecture, Filipinos can likewise have an elevated way of living, and sense of pride." He pointed out that the long history of colonization by various foreign powers might have ingrained an inferiority complex in us, where imported goods and Western ideals were often seen as superior. However, he noted a paradigm shift in today's era, where "the younger generation is learning to have a stronger sense of Filipino pride."
MCI aims to infuse Filipino sensibilities into their designs. While modern Filipino architecture continues to evolve, with styles inspired by both historical and contemporary
elements, the firm seeks to strike a delicate balance—one that moves beyond the conventional imagery of "bahay na bato" (stone house) and explores a broader interpretation of Filipino identity in architecture.
Design-driven team
"Design is king," Mateo explained as he underscored the importance of maintaining alignment with the design intent. He said that, from top to bottom, it is crucial for everyone in the project team to understand the design intent clearly and ensure that it remains faithful to it throughout the process. "You can challenge the design direction with the intention to reinforce where we're taking it. But always align with the design intent across all levels."
While they aim for excellence in their work, it also raises the question of whether they approach life the same way outside of the job site. Mateo acknowledged that, truth be told, “being an architect has become our persona.” He emphasized that it isn’t just a profession where you clock in at the office and clock out without carrying it with you. For him, architecture is woven into their daily lives, influencing everything they do—even at home. Meanwhile, despite being involved in nu-
merous remarkable projects, Mateo finds it difficult to pinpoint a single favorite. This is largely due to MCI’s highly personalized approach to design, where no two projects are ever alike. Each design is meticulously crafted to meet the unique needs of every client.
"Our favorite is always the next project because it brings a lot of excitement," he said.
He explained that rather than forcing a single style, their approach is "highly tailored," where they take the time to truly understand the client and create a custom design.
We're just really lucky that we happen to share the same values with our clients,"he said, emphasizing that this alignment is crucial for the success of a project.
The three principal architects of MCI recognize that client satisfaction, along with repeat and new clients, are key indicators of success under their leadership.
Mateo added that repeat clients are particularly important, as they reflect the long-term relationships MCI has built with its customers. While the company does not rely on advertising, he expressed gratitude for these loyal clients, as their referrals naturally generate new business, proving that their reputation speaks for itself.
Celebrating the Filipino Identity
MCI’s 20-year history is a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and innovation in architecture, where artistry meets
