THE government will not impose sanctions on overseas Filipino workers (OFW) who will refuse to send remittances to compel authorities to bring home former President Rodrigo R. Duterte, Malacañang said on Wednesday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the assurance when asked if the government will remove the benefits, which includes tax exemptions, of OFWs who will join the zero remittance campaign floated by some Duterte loyalists.
“It is the OFW’s choice whether they send their remittance or not. We will not hinder them in whatever they wish,” Castro said in a press briefing.
“As I said earlier, we have not taken any legal action because we know OFWs have their own analysis of the events,” she added.
The Presidential Communication Office (PCO) undersecretary said she is confident most OFWs will not join such a campaign since it will be detrimental to their families.
She cited the case of OFWs in Croatia who refused to join the zero remittance campaign from March 28 to April 4.
“As I said, most of the comments say that they will not participate in such calls because they don’t want their own families to suffer and [to] suffer from political issues,” Castro said.
Legal liability
HOWEVER , she said people in the
campaign may face charges for inciting to sedition since they are seeking to destroy the country’s economy.
“As we speak now, we don’t see whom we will charge [for starting the said campaign]—we are not in that situation yet,” Castro said.
Last Monday, Presidential chief legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile, in his social media account, warned OFWs against joining the zero remittance campaign.
He noted that Congress may opt to respond to the zero remittance campaign, which can severely affect the country’s economy, by suspending their tax privileges such as their travel tax, and documentary stamp tax.
“Congress granted these privileges
‘TOO-STEEP RATE CUTS MAY SPUR ZOMBIE FIRMS’
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
WHILE the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is widely expected to reduce key policy rates on April 10, economists warned that keeping rates too low could lead to the rise of “zombie firms” and market distortions.
In an economic briefing on Wednesday, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Lead Economist Jun Neri said lowering the key policy rates to 4 or 3 percent could subject the economy to the dangers of misallocation of resources, the risk of zombie firms re-emerging and inequality even worsening further.
“We’re not yet at that level where it looks dangerous that we are making rates too low or even negative. But our sense is, we’re getting close to the neutral rate for the BSP,” Neri said. The current 5.75-percent key policy rate, which the BSP maintained in its rate-setting meeting on February 13 due to global uncertainties, is “still slightly above the average policy rate of the BSP,” Neri said. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. has said the BSP is still on an easing cycle and there is a “good chance” it will cut rates by 25 basis points in its meeting on April 10. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/03/26/ bsp-says-intervening-less-inpeso-sees-cut-in-rates/).
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture (DA) will again cut the maximum suggested retail price for imported rice to P45 per kilo starting March 31, owing to a steady decline in global quotations of the staple grain.
“At this level, the retail price of imported rice has now decreased by P19 per kilo compared to its price before we implemented the MSRP on January 20,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement.
The agency said that before the implementation of the MSRP, imported rice was sold at P64 per kilo despite the softening of international rice prices, tariff reductions, and a stronger peso. According to the DA, the MSRP implementation followed consultations with in-
Neri echoed this stance, citing
dustry stakeholders to ensure that price reductions would not destabilize the rice industry or compromise food security.
The agency noted that the initiative reflects President Marcos Jr.’s decision to slash rice tariffs to 15 percent from 35 percent. It added that India’s decision to lift its ban on the export of non-basmati rice also contributed to the increase in global rice supply.
As a result, the DA said international rice prices dropped to their lowest levels in over two years, with some varieties settling below $380 per metric ton (MT).
Before the MSRP reduction to P49 per kilo on March 1, the DA said the price of rice with 5 percent broken grains in Vietnam had already dropped to $490 per MT, around $200 cheaper than in December. Vietnam is the Philippines’s top supplier of rice.
THE Philippine economy’s growth trajectory this year is projected to be shy of the government’s target, already seen as the “strongest expansion” in three years, according to Moody’s Ratings.
In an online briefing on Wednesday, Moody’s Analytics Economist
Sarah Tan said the Philippines will grow by 5.9 percent in 2025 from 5.6 percent in 2024. This will further slow to 5.8 percent in 2026.
Tan said the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia due to its domestic economy driven by private consumption.
“While the expected growth is shy of the government’s target, it will mark the strongest expansion in three years,” Tan said.
The economy is targeted to grow by 6 to 8 percent this year, set by
the Cabinet-level Development Budget and Coordination Committee (DBCC).
Tan said this goal would be supported by stable inflation, easing monetary policy, a tight labor market and healthy inflow of remittances boosting consumption.
Inflation is seen to slow down and settle within the government’s target of 2 to 4 percent, averaging at 2.8 percent in 2025 and 3 percent in 2026.
“The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas [BSP] faces a tough balancing act to maintain price stability and economic growth. Progress on the inflation front supports the case for more rate cuts,” Tan said.
Key policy rates are forecasted to be reduced by 50 basis points in 2025, with the BSP bringing down the rates to 5.75 percent by the end of the year.
However, Tan warned that United States tariffs could slow global demand and the pace of interest rate normalization, prompting the BSP to be more cautious about monetary easing to avoid significant weakening of the peso.
Reciprocal tariffs or any tariffs from the US will “definitely hurt” Philippine exporters because the US is the largest export destination for the Philippines, Tan added.
“It is unlikely to leave a huge dent on the macroeconomy, but it will definitely hurt these exporters and manufacturers,” Tan said.
Last year, the Philippines fell short of reaching its growth target of 6 to 6.5 percent, only expanding by 5.6 percent due to strong serial typhoons that disrupted the country.
In a separate briefing on Wednesday, Bank of the Philippine Islands Lead Economist Jun Neri said chal-
lenges remain in certain key sectors, which could dent growth. The China supply chain as well as the ban of Philippine offshore gaming operations, which resulted in the excess supply of office spaces and condominiums, is seen to slow construction growth.
“Even five years past the initial disruptions, corporate construction activity persists at approximately 25 percent below prepandemic levels, creating a notable gap in overall investment and economic momentum,” Neri said.
“This situation underscores the urgent need for the private sector to proactively identify and invest in emerging sectors and regions that are capable of not only driving new growth but also effectively compensating for this persistent weakness,” he added.
Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
POE INDUCTS UPMG 2025-2027 OFFICERS Senator Grace Poe (left) administers the oath as the inducting officer and keynote speaker during the United Print & Multimedia Group Philippines (UPMG) induction of 2025-2027
and the Headliner Awards 2024 at Manila Hotel. From left: President Viviene Motomal (People’s Journal), Vice President Angel Guerrero (Adobo Magazine), Former UPMG President Barbie Atienza, Corporate Secretary Jeanette Dominguez (BusinessWorld), Treasurer Sherly Baula (Chinese Commercial News), Auditor Roda Alonzo-Zabat (Manila Times), P.R.O. Aldwin Tolosa (BusinessMirror), and Directors Jong Arcano (Philippine Daily Inquirer), Edna Abong (Pilipino Star Ngayon/Freeman), and CRB Head Eve Bacani (Philippine Daily Inquirer). ROY DOMINGO
Comelec control for Maguindanao town eyed
chaos or frame certain candidates cannot be ruled out.
Last week, the Comelec signed a peace covenant with gubernatorial candidates in Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur to strengthen security measures ahead of the elections.
Lidasan-Abo’s killing marks the fourth ambush targeting local election officials, following similar incidents in Lanao del Norte, Sultan Kudarat and Zamboanga City. With a report by Manuel T. Cayon
from A16 No sanctions for OFW…
to them by laws enacted by it. I earnestly suggest to our OFWs to study carefully that advice to them before they get burned by it,” Enrile said. OFW remittances continue to be the country’s top dollar sources.
Last year, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said their cash remittances rose to US$34.49 billion from US$33.49 billion in 2023. Based on the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), there were 2.16 million overseas Filipino workers worldwide in 2023.
DA eyes P14-B food hubs to bolster farm supply chain
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THEDepartment of Agriculture (DA) plans to build two food hubs, worth as much as P14 billion, to bolster the country’s supply chain.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said one food hub will be established in Clark, Pampanga, to serve as a market channel for the provinces in North Luzon, while the other will be built in Quezon province to cater to those in Southern Tagalog and Bicol.
Each food hub would need around P3 to P7 billion in funding, according to the DA official.
“In this food hub [...] huge volumes of agricultural produce could be traded daily, and it would have cold storage facilities around it,” De Mesa told reporters in Filipino during a press briefing on Wednesday.
“If you have these kinds of facilities, you can at least have a system that will indicate a pricing so that farmers are not affected and consumers do not experience excessively high
or low prices,” he said. The agency is eyeing to build the food hub early next year. The hub in Clark will be 30 to 50 hectares, while the one in Quezon will have 20 to 30 hectares.
De Mesa noted that the food hub was aligned with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.’s vision to have such projects that would prevent the volatility in prices of farm goods.
Last year, Laurel bared his plans to establish food hubs across the country. These will serve as crucial platforms where farmers and cooperatives can directly bring their produce, he explained.
This would facilitate transactions with wholesale buyers and individual consumers while offering agricultural products at competitive prices.
Industry sources have flagged the “disconnect” between the farmgate and retail prices of pork, with the DA imposing a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for pork starting March 10 to curb the spike in prices of the protein source.
The MSRP stood at P380 per kilo for pork belly or liempo and P350 per kilo for kasim or pork
Manager Ma. Lourdes SJ. Reyes, and BCDA Executive Vice President Gisela Z. Kalalo. Pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, the BCDA transforms former military camps into centers of economic growth, generating income through disposition proceeds from sale, lease, and joint venture, as well as concession fees and other receipts.
shoulder and pigue or pork ham. Sabit ulo, or the price at which traders pass pork to retailers, also had an MSRP of P300 per kilo.
Retail prices of pork ham in Metro Manila markets range from P320 to P420 per kilo, while pork belly stood between P370 and P470 per kilo, based on the latest government price monitoring report.
as factors: the peso currently at the P57 level, inflation closer to 2 percent, and the presumption that nothing “earth-shaking” will come from abroad. The next 25-basis-point cut could be delivered before the fourth quarter of the year, due to favorable base effects arising from rice.
‘Unpredictable’ Trump
BPI sees a “very low confidence forecast” on the peso, which could reach the P60 level “just because Mr. Trump is so unpredictable.” The peso is seen to settle at P58.40 in the first quarter of the year and will depreciate further to P59.10 in the second quarter. By third quarter, the peso will breach the P60 level at P60.90 and P60.40 in the last quarter.
“It’s so hard to say what [is Trump] going to do next. And if he does pursue these reciprocal tariffs and causes the US to suffer from very high inflation, hindi malayo mangyari na mag -59 [it’s not far-fetched that we hit 59] again or even hit the 60 level,” Neri said. BPI economists said further that the BSP could only cut rates by 50 basis points this year and then by 25 basis points in 2026, bringing the key policy rates to 5 percent, and then pause from there for a longer period.
Keeping key policy rates between 4.75 percent and 5.25 percent is considered a “healthy level” of policy rates, according to Neri.
Portions of these proceeds are remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury through dividends and contributions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other beneficiary agencies, the BCDA noted.
A share of the earnings is also used to fund the BCDA’s infrastructure projects to help strengthen and boost the competitiveness of its economic zones.
Still citing the report, the ADB director explained that Southeast Asia’s increased economic ties with other subregions in the recent decade is a boon.
“This is not only witnessed at the Asean level but with other subregions such as East Asia,” Kang said. “This trend is likely to persist in spite of challenging geopolitical environment given mutual economic benefits expected from economic integration.”
During the report’s launch on Monday, the ADB emphasized that stronger collaboration between Asian economies will be essential in navigating trade uncertainties. (See:
The report showed that Asia and the Pacific led other regions in trade, foreign direct investment and labor movement, while Europe and the United Kingdom maintained a slight edge in financial integration. To further enhance regional cooperation, the Manila-based bank recommended simplifying trade agreements, improving Rules of Origin frameworks and reducing compliance costs through better awareness and capacity building.
However, BPI Global Markets Lead Market Strategist Marco Javier said the BSP’s monetary easing would depend on the United States Federal Reserve and Donald Trump’s tariff threats. “But we’re starting to also see the benefits. We did see the peso relatively stable, especially during the February pause. We were pushing near P59, and I think that helped the BSP beef up its gross international reserves,” Javier said. While the Philippines may be in a relatively better position than some export-driven economies, Neri said indirect effects of Trump’s tariff threats, such as prices going up sharply in the United States, could be felt locally. Moreover, if the Fed paused in cutting rates or even hiked due to inflation-caused supply shocks, this could strengthen the dollar and weaken the peso, which makes imports expensive, Neri said. If the United States is also faced with stagflation, then the Fed will have a dilemma and might not be able to cut rates and would have to deploy other kinds of strategies to boost growth, he added.
The DA said the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) recognized the MSRP as a “key factor” in reducing rice prices and helping tame inflation.
Purchase local rice
THE agency again asked Congress and the national government to put in place measures that would allow the National Food Authority (NFA) to influence local rice prices.
Laurel said the NFA would need to procure some 20 percent of local supply to move the needle on palay prices.
“We are doing this with one hand tied behind our back. We need some of the NFA’s powers back—if not to the agency itself, then to the DA—to better address the challenges we face,” Laurel said in a statement.
“The NFA also needs addition-
al resources to buy a larger volume of palay—around 20 percent of the supply—to influence market prices,” he added. Laurel said that since it was stripped of its regulatory powers, the grains agency has been grappling with a limited budget, hampering it from purchasing “significant” volumes from farmers and managing rice inventories through regular sales to the public.
The NFA has been purchasing palay at P18 per kilo for fresh harvests and P24 per kilo for clean, dry grains, the DA said.
“With its limited authority, the NFA cannot intervene in the market effectively, leaving traders room to suppress palay prices,” he said. “This has led to the current farmgate prices dropping to as low as P14 per kilo.”
hold contractors, government officials, and other responsible parties accountable.
“The number of incidents of bridges collapsing across the country has reached an alarming level. These have resulted in fatalities, injuries, and significant economic losses, raising urgent concerns over deficiencies in engineering and design, use of substandard materials, lack of proper oversight, and possible corruption in infrastructure projects,” Pimentel stressed in filing Senate Resolution No. 1319.
“Billions of pesos are spent and years are wasted building these bridges, only for them to collapse in an instant, endangering lives and squandering public funds. Bridges must be built to withstand calamities and heavy use, yet their repeated collapses raise serious concerns,” Pimentel underscored.
AGRICULTURE Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa PNA FILE PHOTO BY BEN BRIONES
LOOK EAST FOR NEW DRIVERS AND OPPORTUNITIES
By Huang Xilian, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of the Philippines
THE Spring, as always, brings new scenes in China. The National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), or more commonly known as the Two Sessions, were convened successively in early March in Beijing. Nearly 3,000 NPC deputies and over 2,000 CPPCC members gathered in China’s capital city to bring the voices and aspirations of the people to the nation’s highest decision-making platform and into the top-level design of national development. The Two Sessions have forged a strong force for furthering comprehensive reforms and advancing Chinese modernization.
2 025 marks the final year of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan and the year of strategic planning for the next or the 15th Five-Year Plan. As a key link between the past and the future, this year’s Two Sessions drew significant attention. This consensus-building event not only infused confidence into regional partners but also carved new pathways for global cooperation and shared prosperity. The substantial outcomes of the Two Sessions showcased to the world the resilience and vitality of the Chinese economy, groundbreaking innovations in science and culture, and China’s sincere commitment to sharing development opportunities with the rest of the world.
I. China’s Economy Advances Steadily with High-Quality Development
and 144-hour visa-free transit policy is granted to travelers from 54 countries. It is also worth noting that China’s mutual visa exemption policies are extended to ASEAN countries like Singapore and Thailand. A comprehensive, high-level, and wide-ranging regional framework for open cooperation is rapidly taking shape, injecting new momentum into high-standard openness and high-quality development. Social media trends under the theme “China Travel” have exceeded 1 billion views globally, amplifying China’s allure in the new era of globalization.
II. Surging Innovation: Twin Engines of Technology and Culture
During the Two Sessions, scientific and technological innovation dominated discussions. Keywords such as “new quality productive forces,” “AI+,” and “lowaltitude economy” sparked widespread debate, reflecting breakthroughs in innovation, robust growth in emerging industries, expansion of digital and green economies, steady upgrading of the traditional sectors, and fresh progress in nurturing advanced productivity.
DeepSeek also highlighted China’s vibrant innovation ecosystem; Social media platform Xiaohongshu, also known by its international APP users as “the Red Note”, topped global app charts, facilitating cross-cultural dialogue between China and the West; the Chinese video game Black Myth: Wukong won global gaming awards with cuttingedge technology, reshaping perceptions of Chinese digital creativity; Web novels and short vertical dramas became a cultural phenomenon overseas, dominating Southeast Asian markets; China now holds 63% of the global humanoid robotics industrial chain. Humanoid robots are set to run alongside their human competitors at the Beijing Marathon n ext month. These milestones showcase China’s intergenerational innovation prowess—from the digital rebirth of cultural symbols to advancements in hard tech—continuously expanding humanity’s imagination of what is possible.
III. Committed to Deepening Ties with Neighboring Nations, Forging a Regional Community with a Shared Future
other—China has cultivated a diversified trade network spanning over 230 countries and regions, enhancing resilience against external uncertainties. China will further deepen reforms and expand openness, steering its colossal ship of economy through challenges and steadily forward, benefiting both its own people and bring to the world invaluable stability.
O ver the past year, China’s economy has grown steadily with continued improvements in the people’s livelihood. Key economic indicators such as consumption, investment and exports have risen steadily, demonstrating a clear recovery and upward trend. The per capita disposable income of Chinese residents grew by 5.1%, while employment and prices remained stable overall. A total of 12.56 million new urban jobs were created, with the average surveyed urban unemployment rate at 5.1%, and the consumer price index rose by 0.2%. Achievements in poverty alleviation were consolidated and expanded, with strengthened safeguards in compulsory education, basic elderly care, healthcare, and social assistance.
O ver the past year, China has advanced green and lowcarbon development, achieving remarkable progress in
Amid a complex and evolving global landscape, China has set a GDP growth target of around 5% for the year. This goal reflects a scientific assessment of both domestic and international conditions, unwavering confidence in the path of high-quality development, and a balanced approach to driving both the quality and quantity of economic growth. It underscores the overarching principle of “seeking progress while maintaining stability” and striving with determination and achievement. China enjoys solid foundations, robust support, and has strong confidence in hitting the above target.
ecological conservation. Efforts to meet the “dual-carbon” goals accelerated, driving green energy development and the expansion of new energy industries to foster low-carbon growth. The battle against pollution has gained further ground, yielding significant improvements in air quality and ecological governance: the average concentration of PM2.5 or hazardous fine particle matter in prefecture-level cities and above fell by 2.7%; the proportion of days with good air quality rose to 87.2%; the share of surface water with good quality reached 90.4%; energy consumption per unit of GDP decreased by over 3%; an installed capacity of 373 million kilowatts has been added to the renewable energy sector. Through technological innovation, China promoted models of green manufacturing and circular economy, embedding the principles of sustainable development into societal consciousness.
O ver the past year, China has steadily expanded openness and enhanced its international engagement. By the end of 2024, full mutual visa exemptions have been implemented with 25 countries, unilateral visa-free policies are being trialed for 38 countries,
C hina’s innovation has entered an era of explosive growth: the “new trio” of Chinese exports—new energy vehicles (NEVs), lithium batteries, and photovoltaic products—saw export value surging by 30% year-on-year, China’s holding on tight in its role as a key driver of global green transformation. the quantum computing prototype “Zu Chongzhi-3” broke world record for superconducting quantum supremacy again, 6G technology R&D made new breakthroughs, and China now leads the world in the number of large AI models. Annual NEVs production and sales surpassed 12 million units, remaining in the top global position for a decade. CATL’s sodium-ion battery technology has ushered in a new era of energy storage.
T he fusion of tradition and modernity illuminates China’s cultural confidence: its new year animation Ne Zha 2 captivated global audiences with oriental aesthetics, grossing $2 billion worth of box-office worldwide as a non-Hollywood, non-English animated film—ranking the fifth in global box office history. The Three-Body Problem series adaptation debuted on international streaming platforms, igniting a sci-fi frenzy. AI assistant
China’s neighboring regions are the foundation for its security and prosperity. China shares intertwined destinies with its neighbors. A thriving neighborhood enables China’s own development, while China’s progress reciprocally elevates the rest of the region. As a result, the benefits of China’s growth will inevitably and abundantly flow to its neighbors first. The Two Sessions underscored China’s vision of integrating its own development with that of its neighbors and leveraging regional progress. This reflects China’s responsibility as a regional major country for leading cooperation and safeguarding peace and development, and is poised to contribute Chinese wisdom and solutions to sub-regional governance and inject vitality into building a global community with a shared future.
Today, China’s economy has transitioned from growth with a high speed to development with a high-quality, marked by innovation, accelerated consumption and improved industrial structures, and vast opportunities in markets, growth, investment, and collaboration. By accelerating the dual-circulation development paradigm—where domestic and international markets reinforce each
IV. The Annual Two Sessions: A Window into China’s Whole-Process People’s Democracy Democracy is a shared human value and a right of all peoples. Whole-process people’s democracy, the broadest, most genuine, and most effective form of democracy, is not only the choice most suited to China’s national conditions but also a significant Chinese contribution to enriching the political civilization of humanity. During the drafting of the Government Work Report, nearly 4,000 pieces of opinions were solicited, and over 2 million suggestions from netizens were collected, ensuring the fullest possible pooling of wisdom and the broadest reflection of public will. After the conclusion of the Two Sessions, government departments will comprehensively implement all outlined tasks, completing a full-cycle governance process—from soliciting and listening to public opinions, through deliberation, and to implementation. This demonstrates the governance philosophy of democratic consultation and collective decision-making, highlighting the unique strengths of socialist democracy with Chinese characteristics. I n 2025, united by and under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, the Chinese people will continue to work and forge ahead to complete the goals and tasks of the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality, lay a solid foundation for a good start of the 15th Five-Year Plan, and take new and solid steps in China’s modernization. The Two Sessions of China sent a clear signal to the world: the modernization process of 1.4 billion people will surely provide the world with a larger market, better solutions, and more possibilities through a higher level of opening-up, and write a new chapter of win-win cooperation with the world using Chinese wisdom.
Marcos-backed Senate bets dominate survey
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
NINE senatorial candidates from the administration-backed Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas remain strong contenders on the top 12, the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) senatorial preference survey commissioned by the Stratbase Group show.
However, two known loyalists of detained former President Rodrigo Duterte—reelectionists Christopher Lawrence Go and Ronald dela Rosa—are entrenched on the Magic 12 as well.
Another reelectionist, Sen. Imee Marcos, continues to miss entering the Top 12 circle, however, as uncertainty marks her candidacy. She has been endorsed by the Marcos-backed Alyansa ticket, but has missed some rallies or not spoken in some.
The survey was conducted from March 15 to 20, several days after the arrest of Duterte, through face-to-face interviews with 1,800 registered voters nationwide, per pollster SWS. It has a margin of error of ±2.31 percent.
Results showed ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo and Go tied for the top spot, each receiving 42-percent support. Between February
Legislator to govt: File charges vs spreaders of China propaganda
ALAWMAKER on Wednesday called on the government to file criminal charges against Filipino individuals spreading pro-China propaganda, labeling them“wumaos” and threats to Philippine sovereignty.
Rep. Jay Khonghun of Zambales, a province facing the West Philippine Sea, urged the government to pursue charges including cyber libel, espionage, sedition, and terrorism.
“Wumaos are not just online trolls. They are dangerous enablers of foreign aggression,” he stated.
The term “wumao” is derived from the Chinese “wu mao dang,” that refers to individuals paid to disseminate progovernment propaganda. In the Philippines, they have been observed defending Chinese incursions, minimizing the harassment done to Filipino fishermen, and attacking the Philippine military and government online.
“If their actions cross the line into aiding the enemy, spreading disinformation, or sabotaging national interest, they must be held criminally liable,” Khonghun, a House Assistant Majority Leader, added.
Khonghun emphasized that the government must not tolerate Filipino citizens acting as mouthpieces for a foreign power, particularly amid escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea. His call comes as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed it is monitoring 20 vloggers linked to disinformation campaigns.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago said these vloggers are being tracked for spreading fake news targeting government officials and inciting political unrest. The NBI is also investigating potential funders and leaders behind these activities.
While acknowledging the difficulty of proving treason, Khonghun suggested utilizing existing laws such as the Cybercrime Prevention Act, the Anti-Espionage Law, provisions in the Revised Penal Code on sedition or inciting rebellion, and the AntiTerrorism Act.
“If you’re a Filipino justifying China’s illegal actions, mocking our troops, and spreading lies, don’t hide behind free speech. You’re not an activist—you’re an accomplice,” he said. Khonghun said the fight for sovereignty isn’t just in the sea.
He added, “We must not let traitors win the war of narratives. You are either for the Philippines or against it. There is no middle ground when it comes to defending our sovereignty.” Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
Dela Rosa, who has indicated plans to seek shelter in the Senate in case an arrest warrant on him is served by International Police Organization in connection with the crimes against humanity charges in the International Criminal Court (ICC), holds 9th place with 30 percent, down 2 percentage points from February.
Television host Willie Revillame remains in 10th place, despite a slight dip in support from 30 percent to 28 percentage points.
and March, Go gained 4 percentage points, while Tulfo’s support declined by 3 percentage points. A tight race continues among those in 3rd to 13th place, with differences in support ranging only from 2 to 3 percentage points—well within the margin of error.
Broadcaster Ben Tulfo and former Senate President Tito Sotto are tied for 3rd and 4th place with 34-percent support. Sen. Lito Lapid dropped two places to 5th with 33 percent, a 3 percentage-point decrease from his 36-percent support in February.
Sen. Bong Revilla remains in 6th place with 32 percentage points, while reelectionist Sen.Pia Cayetano and comebacking senator Ping Lacson share the 7th and 8th spots with 31 percentage points.
Rounding out the top 12 are Makati Mayor Abby Binay, former Sen. Manny Pacquiao, and Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar, who are tied for the 11th to 13th spots with 27 percent each.
Just outside the top 12 are two former senators: Kiko Pangilinan in 14th place with 24 percentage points, and Bam Aquino in 15th with 21 percentage points.
SWS noted that one of the biggest declines was seen in the case of Sen. Imee Marcos. Support for her candidacy continues to fall, and she now stands in 16th place with 19 percentage point, down 5 percentage points from February.
Stratbase Group President Dindo Manhit attributed the strong and consistent performance of Alyansa candidates to the coalition built by President Marcos and the political machinery backing them.
“Right now, it’s safe to say that the Marcos administration and the coalition they have built, which includes five major
political parties, can win big in the May 2025 election,” Manhit said in a statement accompanying the release of survey results.
“Beyond the incumbency advantage, the President has fostered unity among various political forces. While the unity between Marcos and Duterte may have dissolved, we’re now seeing strong alignment among traditional political parties and their allies,” he added.
Manhit also pointed out that the popularity and public image of each candidate, combined with the President’s endorsement, help keep Alyansa bets within the winning circle.
He expects the support toward many candidates to rise even more, especially at the start of the local campaign period by the end of the week.
“These candidates already have a degree of popularity and existing support. When you add the President’s endorsement and the administration’s and its allies’ political machinery, it creates a powerful force heading into May 2025,” he said.
Manhit stressed that the visibility of candidates across traditional and digital media continues to influence their standings.
“For 20 years, Stratbase has used data and science to analyze political shifts, especially during election season. What we’re seeing now reflects the impact of media exposure, political advertising, and social media engagement by various candidates,” Manhit said.
House not rushing Senate to start impeachment trial
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House impeachment prosecution panel clarified that it is not rushing the Senate by filing a motion but is merely fulfilling its constitutional duty, said one of the prosecutors.
House Minority Leader Marcelino C. Libanan made the statement after the prosecution team filed an entry with a motion to issue summons to compel Vice President Sara Zimmerman Duterte to respond to the articles of impeachment filed against her by the House of Representatives on February 5.
“We are not pressuring the Senate; we are doing our job. As I mentioned earlier,
we also want to campaign, but we would be committing a culpable violation of the Constitution if we fail to carry out our duty,” Libanan, the nominee of the 4Ps party-list group said in a recent news conference.
He pointed out that the Senate remains operational even during its recess.
“There are claims that the Senate cannot proceed because they are on break. However, Senator Imee Marcos’s committee conducted a hearing just last Thursday, which means the Senate is still working,” he said.
Libanan emphasized that their filings comply with the Senate’s rules on impeachment proceedings, stating, “According to the rules, once a filing is
Navy eyes 2 islands as bases
THE Navy (PN) is preparing for the possible occupation of Grande and Chiquita islands once these are declared military reservations.
“The thrust right now of the PN is to prepare for eventual occupation or preparation of the land that will be awarded through a presidential proclamation declaring Grande Island [and] Chiquita Island as military reservations,” the Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, said in an interview with reporters Tuesday.
He did not give more details on when talks on designating these islands as military reservations started.
See earlier story by BusinessMirror: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/03/23/grandeisland-subics-sentinel/
These islands, he said, need to be declared as military reservations owing to their proximity to Subic Bay whose “natural layout” provides safe harbor for Navy ships using the vital waterway.
A runway also exists in the Subic Bay area that can be used
made, the officer facing impeachment must be given ten days to respond.”
Regarding Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s statement that he would refer the prosecution’s motions to the Senate legal team, Libanan remarked, “All of us must adhere to the Constitution.”
“If the Constitution states that the proceeding shall start forthwith, then we must comply. Otherwise, failing to do so would mean we are the ones violating the Constitution. Given the gravity of this process, we have no choice but to follow our fundamental law,” he explained.
“Our oath of office is rooted in the Constitution,
See “Impeachment,” A13
by Philippine aircraft.
“Hence the need to be able to have a military presence, a foothold in the Subic area,” Trinidad said.
However, Trinidad said the move has nothing to do with the arrest of six foreigners and two Filipinos found conducting illegal activities on Grande Island last March 13.
“The foreign nationals that were arrested on Grande Island were there even before the talks of having [the island declared] as a naval reservation,” Trinidad said. Grande Island, located on
See “Navy,” A5
‘We respect Imee’s withdrawal’
ALYANSA campaign manager and Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco has expressed respect for Sen. Imee Marcos’s decision to withdraw from the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas’ senate slate.
“We respect Senator Imee’s decision. We wish her luck in the campaign,” Tiangco said in a brief statement following Marcos’ announcement.
President Marcos notably omitted his sister, Imee, while introducing candidates during a sortie in Cavite last week. At the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas event, he mentioned only 11 candidates.
Marcos announced her withdrawal from Alyansa, citing concerns over the government’s handling of the recent Senate hearing regarding the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. She added that her committee’s preliminary findings indicate certain actions taken by the administration that run counter to her principles, making it untenable for her to remain part of Alyansa.
“Thus, I cannot stand on the same campaign platform as the rest of Alyansa. As I have stated from the outset of the election period, I will continue to maintain my independence,” she declared.
Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
‘No impeachment court, no summons’
ENATE President Francis
SEscudero on Wednesday ruled out issuing summons immediately to Vice President Sara Z. Duterte as the Senate has not convened as an impeachment court, thus rejecting a call by prosecutors from the House of Representatives.
Escudero made the statement as he warned that short-circuiting the process could spark a legal challenge.
Escudero, a lawyer, also defended the legality of the arrest of former President Rodrigo Road Duterte and the subsequent move to bring him to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court.
“First of all, Filipinos were the ones who filed charges in the ICC, not foreigners. Filipinos were the ones who decided on this move,” he said, speaking partly in Filipino at the forum.
Besides the fact that no foreigner intervened in the decision to file this case, the former President was also not facing any similar charges in the Philippines which would require his presence before a Philippine court, “so you cannot
say that we removed jurisdiction over him by Philippine courts and passed it on to foreigners, since he has no pending case locally,” Escudero added.
“Under our laws, any one accused of crimes against humanity may be brought for trial before an international tribunal,” he said.
House prosecutors’ move ESCUDERO’S opinion on the untimeliness of issuing summons to VP Sara Duterte was in reaction to Tuesday’s move by the House of Representatives’ prosecution panel to formally request the Senate, acting as an impeachment court, to compel the vice president to respond to the articles of impeachment filed against her.
In an “Entry with Motion to Issue Summons” dated March 14 and addressed to Senate President and Presiding Officer Francis Joseph G. Escudero, the prosecution panel urged the Senate to “issue the writ of summons to respondent Vice President Sara Zimmerman Duterte, directing her to file an answer to the Articles of Impeachment within a non-extendible period of ten days from receipt of the Writ of Summons.” Butch Fernandez
Party-list legislator pushes greater public participation in lawmaking
ALAWMAKER is pushing for greater public participation in the legislative process by enabling Filipinos to submit proposals online for reviewing, amending, repealing, or crafting new laws
Bicol Saro Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan said crowdsourcing legislative proposals will help Congress identify the most urgent needs and concerns of the people. Yamsuan emphasized that while committee hearings gather insights from experts and resource persons, their assessments may not always reflect the true sentiments of the sectors they represent.
This innovative approach aims to enhance democracy in the country by making the lawmaking process more inclusive and transparent, Yamsuan said.
“Our goal is to strengthen people’s participation in the legislative process. Through technology, we can democratize the way we craft laws. Our citizens can take part in making laws. They can reach out to Congress via the Internet to air their views and proposals on pending bills or enacted laws,” Yamsuan said.
Yamsuan has co-authored House Bill 303, which aims to create this crowdsourcing platform.
Once a proposed crowdsourced measure reaches 300,000 verified signatures, the bill mandates the PLLO to forward it to the respective chairpersons of the appropriate committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives for further action.
Yamsuan said crowdsourcing legislation is not a new concept, as this has already been proposed more than a decade ago by former Sen. Teofisto Guingona III in the 15th Congress. In the global legislative landscape, Brazil has pioneered citizen involvement in the lawmaking process through its Internet Bill of Rights. On a limited scale, Finland and Iceland have also allowed citizens to comment and provide suggestions through digital platforms on how to improve traffic laws. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
“Citizen involvement in the legislative process through crowdsourcing would provide lawmakers with independent, unbiased inputs on existing laws and pending measures. With valuable inputs from fellow citizens, we can pass laws that are more effective and more responsive to their needs,” he added. Under the proposal, the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO) shall create an online platform where people can start a campaign or an electronic petition to review, amend, repeal, or create a law.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Be climate gamechanger, Borje tells private sector
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
LIMATE resilience needs
Cbold moves, and the private sector should be on the frontlines to lead the charge, a climate advocate reiterated on Monday.
At the second State of Climate Change forum, Climate Change Commission (CCC) Secretary Robert Borje called on the private entities to step up and help build a climate-resilient future.
“Preventing losses and damages starts with turning our adaptation plans into tangible solutions, with the private sector stepping up as a driving force in building a climate-resilient future,” Borje said in his keynote address at the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation-led [PDRF] event at Makati Diamond Residences.
Businesses are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact, said San Miguel Corporation Foundation chairperson Cecile Ang.
“By investing in sustainable practices and supporting community resilience, businesses can help secure a safer, more sustainable future for everyone,” she said during the panel discussion.
For its part, the CCC contin -
ues to push for the localization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and updating the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), which serve as key frameworks for strengthening climate resilience and sustainable development.
The forum, themed “Advancing Private Sector Engagement and the National Adaptation Plan,” was held in partnership with the New Zealand Embassy, a supporter of the Philippines’ climate resilience efforts.
“Through cooperation and innovation, we can create solutions that not only protect communities but also drive economic growth and investment,” New Zealand ambassador Stuart Horne said.
In November, the Philippines and New Zealand signed a Joint Declaration on Climate Change Cooperation, which outlines an 18-month plan to strengthen collaboration mostly on innovation, sustainable development and economic growth.
Data from the Asia Development Bank showed that nearly all climate finance flows in the AsiaPacific from 2018 to 2019, with 91 percent aimed at mitigation, while 36 percent of the contributions came from private sector entities.
warns Makati traders against misrepresentation
AKATI Mayor Abigail
MBinay on Wednesday warned business establishments misrepresenting their nature of operations.
Binay issued the warning after the Makati Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO), served a closure order on Flying Future Services Inc. for illegally conducting offshore gaming operations.
“Makati will exercise zero tolerance for these businesses. We are determined to protect the interest of legitimate businesses that keep our economy strong and stable,” Binay said.
Binay said that business establishments that misrepresent the nature of their operations will face stiff penalties.
BPLO records show that the business permit issued to the said firm was for an Information Technology (IT) company.
The closure order also effectively revoked the Mayor’s permit or business license issued to Flying Future Services Inc., citing violation of Sections 4A.05, 4A.10 and 4A.15 of the Revised Makati Revenue Code or City Ordinance No. 2004-A-025. Violators of the ordinance face imprisonment of six months to one year or a fine of P5,000 to P50,000, or both at the court’s discretion.
The city legal department is determining other cases to be filed by the city government against the
Subic Bay, is a strategic vantage point with a clear view of key sea lanes in the West Philippine Sea, including Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal).
The Department of National Defense (DND) earlier said the suspects’ illegal activities could include suspected espionage and kidnapping activities related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos), where some foreigners are occupying Grande
Palace backs DA call to strengthen NFA authority to buy more palay
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
MALACAÑANG on Wednesday backed the calls of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to provide more power to the National Food Authority (NFA) so it can buy more palay from local farmers and stabilize the price of rice.
In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the proposal is expected to help address the apparent flaws
of Republic Act 12078 or the amended Rice Tariffication Act.
Castro noted that currently NFA is mandated to coordinate
with local governments in its mandate to buy palay from farmers and sell its old rice stocks to government agencies and the public through Kadiwa stores.
“They will first go through the local government, that is what is becoming a bit of a problem or an issue for the Department of Agriculture,” Castro said in Filipino.
“I hope Congress can study again the Rice Tariffication Act so that it can be fixed and the NFA can be given proper authority,” she added when asked if the Marcos administration will include the proposal to its priority legislation.
Under RA 12078, which amended RA 11203, NFA may only sell existing rice buffer stock in areas where there is a rice supply shortage or an extraordinary increase in rice prices.
Prior to the passage of RA 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), the NFA had the sole authority when it came to rice and the importation of the local food staple. Its power became limited to maintaining an emergency rice buffer stock with the passage of the RTL in 2019.
On Monday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. called on Congress to give the agency additional resources so it can buy 20 percent of local rice to help it influence the price of the local food staple.
Castro agreed to the said proposal of providing the additional power to NFA so it can bring down the price of rice.
“It would be great if the NFA could be given authority again, because it has really lost the power to import rice,” Castro said.
New Clark control tower 91.27% complete
By Nonie Reyes
Towners of the company.
BPLO chief Maribert Pagente said his office has been able to shut down a number of business establishments in the city with the help of concerned citizens.
“We have successfully apprehended errant establishments over the past years after acting on information relayed by concerned citizens. We urge the public to remain vigilant and promptly inform our office of any establishment operating illegally in the city,” Pagente said.
Last year, BPLO shut down a total of 118 establishments for various violations. From January to present, 22 errant establishments have been closed down.
Located at the 21st Floor of Yuchengco Tower I in RCBC Plaza, the company was raided on Wednesday, March 19, by operatives of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (Paocc) and the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG). Around 200 individuals of different nationalities were arrested during the raid.
The suspects face charges of violations of Republic Act 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act), Presidential Decree 1602 (Illegal Gambling), and RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act). They are temporarily detained at CIDG Southern District Field Unit.
Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
Island under the guise of private enterprises.
The conversion of the Grande and Chiquita islands as military reservations would help secure the operations of the Subic Special Economic and Freeport Zone, including the Riviera Wharf and the Subic Bay International Airport.
The DND said this is in line with the ongoing development of a naval operating base in Subic which seeks to strengthen and maintain the Philippines’ strategic presence along the western seaboard. PNA
HE new air traffic control tower at the Clark International Airport, which will be the tallest of its kind in the country is almost complete, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines said on Wednesday. The agency made the statement following a joint inspection conducted by the CAAP and its stakeholders on the 18-story New Clark Control Tower on March 25.
Civil Aviation Area Manager Glenn Tripulca of Area Center III with representatives from Air Traffic Service of Clark Control Tower; Clark ANS, and Clark International Airport Corp. Project Management Office inspected the site.
The objective is to assess the
facility’s air traffic service operational requirements. This will ensure the new tower effective support to it’s air traffic management upon completion.
This highlights Caap’s proactive approach in aligning infrastructure development with operational needs. Early collaboration is crucial for optimizing the tower’s efficiency for civil and military aviation operations.
As of March 16, 2025, the tower is 91.27 percent complete and is on track for completion in the second quarter of this year. I
Earlier, Ciac President Jojit Alcazar met with the control tower’s project management team to determine the preparations for the eventual activation of the facility including the training on the air traffic control equipment that will
Dry days ahead–Pagasa
THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) announced on Tuesday the end of amihan (northeast monsoon) in most parts of the country, signaling the transition to the warm and dry season.
be installed.
Engineers and specialists from Ciac and Caap recently completed training by air traffic communication manufacturers based in Larvik, Norway, and Milan, Italy, on the operations of traffic communication, navigation and surveillance systems.
The new air traffic control tower is envisioned to become Clark’s newest iconic landmark at 18 storeys or around 54 meters tall.
The tower will serve as a landmark to all those traversing the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway or traveling to the Clark International Airport.
“The tower will become an outstanding asset of the Marcos administration and is aimed at improving facilities servicing the world-class Clark International Airport. We’ll be able to
warmer, though isolated thunderstorms are also likely to occur,” Pagasa said in a statement.
vastly improve Clark’s air traffic control system and allow for increased safety as we anticipate an increase in the volume of air travel,” Alcazar said. In addition, the new ATC will enhance development efforts being done for Ciac’s Flagship Projects, which include a National Food Hub, a World Convention and Events Center, and a Multi-Modal Mobility Hub.
The Clark Air Traffic Control Project was awarded to MSV Construction and Supplies and funded through Ciac’s parent company, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.
Ciac is the land development and aviation arm of the BCDA which manages the Clark Aviation Capital covering prime government land surrounding the Clark International Airport.
the public to stay cautious against heat stress and to conserve water for daily use.
However, extreme Northern Luzon may still experience occasional cool winds.
“With this development, the day-to-day weather across the country will gradually become
Pagasa said this was due to the shift in wind direction from the northeast to the east, caused by a high-pressure area over the Northwestern Pacific.
The amihan season generally starts around mid-October to November and lasts until March or April. Its end marks the beginning of the summer, typically starting in late March or early April, bringing higher temperatures and less rainfall.
The weather bureau advised
Local rice varieties set for genome sequencing
AGOVERNMENT-led research project aims to sequence the genomes of 1,001 traditional rice varieties in the Philippines to identify genes that can contribute to the development of high-yielding, nutritious and climate-resilient rice.
Titled “Mining the Diversity of Philippine Traditional Rice Varieties through Whole Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics,” the project will be overseen by Maria Genaleen Diaz of the Philippine Genome Center’s (PGC) Program for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry at the University of the PhilippinesLos Baños (UPLB).
The initiative is also in collaboration with the PGC-DNA Sequencing and Bioinformatics
Core Facilities at UP Diliman, the Philippine Rice Research Institute and the International Rice Research Institute.
Researchers are tasked to
generate the complete genome sequences of the rice varieties and develop a reference genome for the “Dinorado” variety, which is prized for its aroma, taste and economic value.
The science agency said the genomic data is expected to help identify traits like herbicide tolerance, early maturity, low phytic acid content and higher micronutrient levels.
The project is funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development. It is also part of a broader initiative that includes a parallel Rice Phenomics project supported by the agriculture agency’s rice program.
Centralized platform
A PHILIPPINE Rice Genome Database will also be created to store and analyze genomic information, supporting future rice breeding efforts.
The Department of Science and Technology said the project’s inception meeting emphasized collaboration among agencies.
“Particular emphasis was
“DOST [Department of Science and Technology]-Pagasa will continue to closely monitor the country’s weather and climatic conditions and their potential impacts, while the public and other concerned agencies are encouraged to regularly check for updates,” it added.
Bless Aubrey Ogerio
placed on multi-agency partnership and efforts to enhance the bioinformatics capacity of researchers and students through specialized training and integration of genome data into rice breeding programs,” the science department said in a statement.
Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Pope Francis’ doctors reveal they considered stopping treatment to ‘let him go’ after serious breathing crisis
By Colleen Barry The Associated Press
ROME—Pope Francis’ medical team briefly considered suspending treatment after a February 28 breathing crisis but instead decided on an aggressive course that put his organs at risk, the doctor coordinating the pope’s hospital care said in an interview published Tuesday.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri said the 88-year-old pontiff and people close to him alike understood “that he might not survive the night,’’ after the bronchospasm attack during which the pope inhaled vomit.
“We needed to choose whether to stop and let him go, or to push it and attempt with all of the possible drugs and the treatments, taking the very high risk of damaging other organs,’’ Alfieri told the Milan daily Corriere della Sera. “In the end, that is the path we chose.”
Francis was released Sunday after 38 days of treatment for double pneumonia, under doctors’ orders to observe two months of convalescence during which he should
avoid large gatherings. The pope appeared weak and frail when he greeted the crowd outside the Gemelli hospital before his discharge. The Vatican has not indicated whether the pope would participate in any Holy Week activities leading up to Easter on April 20. His planned meeting next month with King Charles III in the Vatican was postponed on mutual agreement on Tuesday to allow the pope to rest.
Republicans threaten federal judges with impeachment and funding cuts
By Lisa Mascaro Ap Congressional Correspondent
WASHINGTON—Angry over the crush of court rulings against the Trump administration, Republicans in Congress are trying to slap back at the federal judiciary with proposals to limit the reach of its rulings, cut funding and even impeach judges, tightening the GOP’s grip on government.
House GOP leaders say all options are under consideration as they rush to rein in judges who are halting President Donald Trump’s actions at a rapid pace. In many cases, the courts are questioning whether the firings of federal workers, freezing of federal funds and shuttering of long-running federal offices are unlawful actions by the executive branch and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency.
Alfieri acknowledged that the treatment risked damaging the pope’s kidneys and bone marrow, “but we continued, and his body responded to the treatments and the lung infection improved.’’
The medical bulletin that night said that the pope had suffered a bronchiospasm so severe that he inhaled vomit “worsening his respiratory picture.” Doctors used a non-invasive aspiration to clear his airways.
Three days later, in a second life-and-death crisis, the pope suffered a pair of acute bronchio -
Alfieri said that the pope remained “alert’’ throughout the February 28 ordeal and that his personal health care assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, “who knows perfectly the pontiff’s wishes,’’ urged them “to try everything. Don’t give up.”
spasms episodes. Doctors used a camera tube with a device to remove mucus plugs that yielded abundant secretions. The bulletin emphasized that the pope “always remained alert, oriented and collaborative.’’
Alfieri said he believed that prayers for the pope help keep him alive, something that the doctor said is backed by scientific literature.
“In this case the whole world was praying. I can say that twice the situation was lost, and then it happened like a miracle,’’ the doctor said, adding that “of course he was a very cooperative patient.’’
US allies alarmed by a leaked group chat about attack plans
By Jill Lawless, Emma Burrows & Nicholas Riccardi The Associated Press
LONDON—As wake-up calls go, the alarms don’t get much louder.
Allies of the United States see the group chat between top US officials about a planned attack in Yemen that accidentally included a journalist as a jaw-dropping security breach which casts doubt on intelligence-sharing with Washington and the security of joint military operations.
“Scary” and “reckless” was the verdict of one European diplomat about the discussion on the Signal messaging app about strikes on Houthi rebels. Neil Melvin, a security expert at defense think tank the Royal United Services Institute, called it “pretty shocking.”
“It’s some of the most high-ranking US officials seeming to display a complete disregard for the normal security protocols,” he said.
Beyond the security concerns raised by the leaked chat, US officials addressed the country’s trans-Atlantic allies with disdain as Vice President JD Vance complained about “bailing out” Europe and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth slammed “pathetic” European “freeloading.”
The criticism is another blow to a long-standing relationship already strained by President Donald Trump’s blunt “America First” approach and disregard for friendly nations.
Melvin said that for America’s allies, “the alarm clock’s been ringing for a long time.”
In public, however, European officials insisted all was well in the trans-Atlantic relationship.
“We have a very close relationship with the US on matters of security, defense and intelligence,” said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesman, Dave Pares. “They are our closest ally when it comes to these matters, have been
for many years and will be for many years to come.”
France’s Foreign Ministry said “the United States is our ally, and France intends to continue its cooperation with Washington, as well as with all its allies and European partners, in order to address current challenges—particularly in the area of European security.”
A growing divide SINCE taking office, the Trump administration has halted government funding for programs that support democratic principles around the world and presented a less welcoming face to visitors.
US embassies in at least 17 countries have posted warnings for would-be travelers that engaging in behavior deemed harmful by the government could get them deported. Several European countries have issued warnings about visiting the United States after international tourists were caught up in Trump’s border crackdown.
Trump has appalled allies with his repeatedly stated aim of taking over Greenland—an autonomous Danish territory that Vance and second lady Usha Vance are due to visit this week—and his desire to make Canada the 51st state.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said his country has to “take greater ownership” of its own defense in the face of threats: “We have to look out for ourselves.”
Nathalie Loiseau, a member of the European parliament, told the BBC that she was “flabbergasted” by the breach.
“If I was (Russian President) Vladimir Putin, I would feel jobless. Russia has nothing more to do. … You don’t even need to spy on the US administration. They leak by themselves,” she said.
US reliability questioned THE European diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters, suggested the security breach could make allies question the reliability
of the US as a partner.
The diplomat expressed hope that the Signal lapse was due to a lack of experience in government rather than a deliberate disregard for security.
Asked if he had concerns about sharing intelligence with the US after the Signal incident, Carney said “it’s a serious, serious issue and all lessons must be taken.”
He said it would be important to see “how people react to those mistakes and how they tighten them up.”
Britain could be particularly exposed by US security breaches. Its intelligence network is entwined with the US in the Five Eyes alliance, and the countries’ militaries work more closely than those of almost any other nations.
Britain’s Royal Air Force provided air-to-air refueling for US planes during the strike on the Houthis, but UK Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard insisted British personnel had not been put at risk by the breach.
“We’ve got high confidence that the measures that we have got with our allies, including the United States, remain intact,” he told lawmakers.
Ed Davey, the leader of Britain’s opposition Liberal Democrats, said the lapse showed the Trump administration can’t be trusted to protect its own intelligence and “it could only be a matter of time until our own intelligence shared with them is also leaked.”
“This could put British lives at risk,” he said.
Alex Clarkson, a lecturer in European and international studies at King’s College London, said “the professionals and old hands” who “contained the damage” during Trump’s first term are largely gone.
“So, what we’re having now is … a manifestation of tendencies that were held in check that we already saw in the first round,” he said.
American frustration
THE US has underpinned Europe -
an security since World War II, and Trump is not the first president to bristle at the burden.
“From the Obama administration (onward), there’s been quite some frustrations in the US security apparatus about the failure of the Europeans…to step up,” Melvin said.
Trump has gone much further than his predecessors in upending the decades-old security arrangements. He has long contended the US needs to completely rethink its relationship with the rest of the world, saying other countries have been “taking advantage” of the nation’s military might by not paying enough for their own defense.
Trump has praised autocrats including Putin and sent chills through NATO during last year’s election campaign with his comment that Russia should “do whatever the hell it wants” to members that don’t meet military spending targets.
“There’s a real sense of divorce, that America is not just disinterested in the trans-Atlantic alliance but views Europe fundamentally as an adversary,” said Max Bergmann, a former State Department official who now works at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
“It’s very clear at this point, abundantly clear, that it will be next to impossible to count on the United States for the cause of defending democracy in the world,” said Kevin Casas-Zamora, secretary-general of the pro-democracy group International IDEA.
NATO leaders point out that Trump’s criticism and the war in Ukraine have led to a majority of member states meeting the target of spending at least 2% of their gross domestic product on defense.
Riccardi reported from Denver. Associated Press writers Ali Swenson in New York, Chris Megerian in Washington. John Leicester in Paris and Rob Gillies in Toronto contributed.
In perhaps the most high-profile case, Judge James E. Boasberg ordered planeloads of deported immigrants to be turned around, raising the ire of Trump, who called for his impeachment, and billionaire Musk, who is funneling campaign cash to House Republicans backing impeachment efforts. The president calls the judges “lunatics.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday that “desperate times call for desperate measures” without mentioning impeachment.
“We do have authority over the federal courts, as you know,” the Republican speaker said. “We can eliminate an entire district court. We have power of funding over the courts, and all these other things.”
Not yet 100 days into the new administration, the unusual attack on the federal judiciary is the start of what is expected to be a protracted battle between the co-equal branches of government, unmatched in modern memory. As the White House tests the judiciary, trying to bend it to Trump’s demands, the Congress, controlled by the president’s own Republican Party, appears ready to back him up.
It all comes as the Supreme Court last summer granted the executive broad immunity from prosecution, setting the stage for the challenges to come. But Chief Justice John Roberts warned more recently that “impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision.”
Democrats are warning against what they view as an assault on the judicial branch, which so far has been the only check against Trump and DOGE’s far-reaching federal actions. Threats against the federal judges, already on the rise, remain of high concern.
“It is outrageous to even think of defunding the courts,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, reacting to the House speaker’s claims. “The courts are the bulwark against Trump, and the Republicans can’t stand it.”
House GOP leaders met Tuesday with Rep. Jim Jordan, the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, which will hold a hearing on the issue next week. The House is also expected to vote on a bill from Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., that would limit the geographic reach of certain federal rulings, to prevent temporary restraining orders from being enacted nationwide. Jordan said he also spoke Saturday with Trump during college wrestling championships in Philadelphia.
“All options are on the table,” Jordan said late Monday. “We want to get the facts. Gather the facts.”
Since Trump took office, and with Musk, on a mission to dramatically reduce the size and scope of the federal government, the administration’s tech-inspired move-fast-and-break-things ethos has run up against the constraints of federal law.
An onslaught of court cases has been filed by employee groups, democracy organizations and advocacy groups trying to keep federal programs—from the US Agency for International Development to the Education Department—from being dismantled.
Judges have issued various types of restraints on Trump’s actions. Trump’s first administration alone accounted for 66 percent of all the injunctions issued on presidential actions between 2001 and 2023, according to data from a Harvard Law Review piece circulated by Republicans.
The legislation from Issa had no support from Democrats when it was approved by the Judiciary Committee last month. A similar bill was introduced Monday by GOP Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, of Maryland, the top Democrat on the Judiciary panel, said Trump is being hit with injunctions because he is “engaged in terrible, irresponsible and lawless violations of people’s rights.”
“We are winning in court,” Raskin said in a video address. “We’ve got to make sure we defend the integrity of the judiciary.”
When it comes to actually impeaching the judges, however, top Republicans have stopped short of backing what would be a severe action.
Impeachments are rare in Congress, particularly of judges, but several rank-and-file House Republicans have proposed legislation to launch impeachment proceedings against various federal judges who have ruled in ways unfavorable to the Trump administration.
Musk has rewarded House Republicans who signed onto impeachment legislation with political donations, according to a person familiar with information first reported by the New York Times. The person was granted anonymity to discuss the matter.
Republicans are particularly focused on Boasberg, the chief judge of the district court in Washington, D.C., who Jordan said is in a “somewhat unique in that, you know, his decision was crazy.”
The judge is weighing whether the Trump administration defied his order after the planes of migrants landed in El Salvador, turned over to that country’s notorious mega-prison system. The Trump administration had invoked the Alien Enemies Act, a war-time authority used during World War II against Japanese Americans, for the deportations the judge said lacked due process.
Any impeachment effort would also require backing from the Senate, where GOP leaders also panned the effort.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., echoed the advice of Roberts in allowing normal legal procedures to play out.
The Associated Press writers Leah Askarinam and Kevin Freking contributed to this report.
Angel R. Calso
POPE Francis appears at a window of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, Sunday, March 23, 2025, where he has been treated for bronchitis and bilateral pneumonia since February 14. AP/DOMENICO STINELLIS
US claims tentative Ukraine-Russia ceasefire deal, but Kremlin demands sanctions relief
By Hanna Arhirova The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—The United States said Tuesday that it had reached a tentative agreement for Ukraine and Russia to stop fighting and ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea in separate talks with both sides, but many details were unresolved, and the Kremlin made the deal conditional on lifting some Western sanctions.
The announcement was made as the US wrapped up three days of talks with Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Saudi Arabia on prospective steps toward a limited ceasefire.
While a comprehensive peace deal still looked distant, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the talks as the early “right steps” toward a peaceful settlement of the 3-year-old war.
“These are the first steps—not the very first but initial ones— with this presidential administration toward completely ending the war and the possibility of a full ceasefire, as well as steps toward a sustainable and fair peace agreement,” he said at a news conference.
US experts met separately with Ukrainian and Russian representatives in the Saudi capital of Riyadh, and the White House said in separate statements after the talks that the sides “agreed to ensure safe navigation, eliminate the use of force, and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea.”
Details of the prospective deal were not released, but it appeared to mark another attempt to ensure safe Black Sea shipping after a 2022 agreement that was brokered by the U.N. and Turkey but halted by Russia the next year.
“We are making a lot of progress,” US President Donald Trump said Tuesday at the White House. “So that’s all I can report.”
When Moscow withdrew from the shipping deal in 2023, it complained that a parallel agreement promising to remove obstacles to Russian exports of food and fertilizer had not been honored. It said restrictions on shipping and insurance hampered its agricultural trade. Kyiv accused Moscow of violating the deal by delaying the vessels’ inspections. After Russia suspended its part
of the deal, it regularly attacked Ukraine’s southern ports and grain storage sites.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in televised comments Tuesday that Moscow is now open to the revival of the Black Sea shipping deal but warned that Russian interests must be protected.
In an apparent reference to Moscow’s demands, the White House said the US “will help restore Russia’s access to the world market for agricultural and fertilizer exports, lower maritime insurance costs, and enhance access to ports and payment systems for such transactions.”
Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s envoy for investment and economic cooperation, hailed the results of the talks as a “major shift toward peace, enhanced global food security and essential grain supplies for over 100 million additional people.”
Trump “is making another global breakthrough by effective dialogue and problem-solving,” he said on X.
But the Kremlin warned in a statement that the Black Sea deal could only be implemented after sanctions against the Russian Agricultural Bank and other financial organizations involved in food and fertilizer trade are lifted and their access to the SWIFT system of international payments is ensured.
The agreement is also conditional on lifting sanctions against Russian food and fertilizer exporters and ships carrying Russian food exports, and removing restrictions on exports of agricultural equipment to Russia, the Kremlin said.
The deal emphasized that inspections of commercial ships would be necessary to ensure they aren’t used for military purposes.
Zelenskyy bristled at Russia’s demand for lifting sanctions, saying that doing so “would weaken
our position.”
Still, Trump indicated that the US was considering the Kremlin’s conditions: “We’re thinking about all of them right now.”
In an interview Tuesday with Newsmax, Trump considered the possibility that Putin could be stalling on ending the war.
“I think that Russia wants to see an end to it, but it could be they’re dragging their feet,” said Trump, comparing the negotiation to his own experience in real estate. “I’ve done it over the years. I don’t want to sign a contract. I want to sort of stay in the game, but maybe I don’t want to do it.”
A senior official in the Ukrainian government, who is directly familiar with the talks and spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to comment publicly, said the Kyiv delegation does not agree to lifting sanctions as a condition for a maritime ceasefire and that Russia has done nothing to have sanctions rolled back. The official also said European countries are not involved in the sanctions discussions, despite sanctions being within the European Union’s responsibility.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov warned that Kyiv would see the deployment of Russian warships in the western Black Sea as a “violation of the commitment to ensure safe navigation” there and “a threat to the national security of Ukraine.”
“In this case, Ukraine will have full right to exercise right to selfdefense,” he said.
Halting strikes on energy infrastructure
THE White House also said the parties agreed to develop measures for implementing an agreement reached in Trump’s calls with Zelenskyy and Putin to ban strikes against energy facilities in Russia and Ukraine.
The talks in Riyadh, which did not include direct RussianUkrainian contacts, were part of an attempt to work out details on a partial pause in the fighting in Ukraine, which began with Moscow’s invasion in 2022. It has been a struggle to reach even a limited, 30-day ceasefire, which both sides agreed to in principle last week, even while continuing to attack each other with drones and missiles.
After the Trump-Putin call last week, the White House said the partial ceasefire would include ending attacks on “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin emphasized that the agreement referred more narrowly to “energy infrastructure.”
Thai prime minister survives no-confidence vote amid accusations of nepotism, mismanagement
BANGKOK—Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra easily survived a no-confidence vote in Parliament on Wednesday, following a two-day debate in which rivals charged that she has mismanaged the country and let her father, a former prime minister, control her administration.
Opposition lawmakers argued that she has been unduly influenced by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin is a popular but highly controversial political figure who was ousted in a 2006 military coup, fled into exile and recently returned to Thailand.
Paetongtarn’s opponents said her administration has improperly favored the personal and financial interests of her family and her father. They also accused her of tax evasion and mishandling many of the country’s chronic problems including the slumping economy, air pollution, crime and corruption.
Paetongtarn received 319 votes, with 161 voting against her and seven abstaining in the first noconfidence vote she faced since she took office last year after another Pheu Thai prime minister was removed by the Constitutional Court after it found he’d committed a serious ethical breach. Afterward, she posted on social
media thanking all parties for taking part in the vote.
“Every vote, whether in support or in opposition, is a force that will drive me and the Cabinet to continue to devoutly work for the people,” she wrote.
Paetongtarn heads the Pheu Thai Party, the latest in a string of populist parties affiliated with Thaksin. Thaksin has been at the heart of nearly two decades of deep political divisions pitting a mostly poor, rural majority that supported him against royalists, the military and their urban backers, who accuse him of threatening their status and that of the revered monarchy. AP
Tuesday’s White House statement reverted to the wording used by Russia.
The Kremlin, which has accused Ukraine of breaching the agreement to stop strikes on energy infrastructure, on Tuesday published a list of energy facilities subject to a 30-day halt on strikes that began on March 18. It warned that each party was free to opt out of the deal in case of violations by the other side.
Zelenskyy noted that significant uncertainties remain.
“I think there will be a million questions and details,” he said, adding that the responsibility for potential violations also remains unclear.
He emphasized that Ukraine is open to a full, 30-day ceasefire that Trump has proposed, reaffirming that Kyiv is “ready to quickly move toward an unconditional ceasefire.”
Putin has made a complete ceasefire conditional on a halt of arms supplies to Kyiv and a suspension of Ukraine’s military mobilization—demands rejected by Ukraine and its Western allies.
The US noted its commitment
to helping achieve the exchange of prisoners of war, the release of civilian detainees and the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children.
In other developments, the Russian Foreign Ministry warned in a statement that Moscow would not agree to surrender control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe’s largest, that Russia captured in the opening days of the invasion.
Trump suggested that Zelenskyy consider transferring ownership of Ukraine’s power plants to the US for long-term security, while the Ukrainian leader said they specifically talked about the Zaporizhzhia plant in last week’s call.
Cross-border strikes continue
THE Russian Defense Ministry said Ukraine had “continued deliberate drone strikes against Russia’s civilian energy facilities.”
One Ukrainian drone attack on Monday knocked down a highvoltage power line linking the Rostov nuclear power plant with the city of Tikhoretsk in the southern Krasnodar region, the ministry
said, adding that another drone strike had occurred on the Svatovo gas distribution station in the Russia-occupied Ukrainian region of Luhansk.
Russian state media said six people, including three Russian journalists, died Monday after a Ukrainian missile strike in the Luhansk region.
In Ukraine, the number of people injured Monday in a Russian missile strike in the city of Sumy rose to 101, including 23 children, according to the Sumy regional administration.
The strike on Sumy, across the border from Russia’s Kursk region that has been partially occupied by Ukraine since August, hit residential buildings and a school, which had to be evacuated.
Meanwhile, Russia launched a missile and 139 long-range drones into Ukraine overnight, according to the Ukrainian air force. Those attacks affected seven regions of Ukraine and injured multiple people.
The Associated Press writer Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, contributed to this report.
‘Like a sound from hell’: Was sonic weapon used against peaceful protesters in Serbia?
By Jovana Gec & Dusan Stojanovic The Associated Press
BELGRADE, Serbia—Ivana
Ilic Sunderic had never heard anything quite so alarming and disturbing at a protest as the sound that broke a commemorative silence during a huge anti-government rally in Serbia’s capital, Belgrade.
“It was quiet and peaceful and then we heard something we could not see…like a sound rolling toward us, a whiz,” Ilic Sunderic said about the March 15 incident.
“People started rushing for safety toward the pavement, feeling that something was moving toward us down the street.”
It was “a subdued sound lasting only 2-3 seconds but very unusual and very frightening, like a sound from hell,” she said.
Ilic Sunderic was not alone in describing the panic. Hundreds of others have offered similar
accounts, triggering accusations that the police, military or security services under the tight control of authoritarian Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic used an acoustic crowd control weapon to target peaceful protesters.
The weapons, which are illegal in Serbia, emit sound waves which can trigger sharp ear pain, disorientation, eardrum ruptures or even irreversible hearing damage.
The incident piled more pressure on Vucic, who has been rattled by nearly five months of anti-corruption protests over the
collapse in November of a concrete canopy at a railway station in the northern town of Novi Sad that killed 16 people.
Serbia’s officials have issued often contradictory denials that an acoustic weapon was directed at the demonstrators. Calls have been mounting for answers as to what caused the sudden commotion, if not a sonic device.
An Associated Press video shows thousands of protesters holding up their lit mobile phones in silence when they suddenly start running away in panic. A swooshing sound can then be heard.
“I have been going to protests for 30 years but I’ve never heard anything like this,” Ilic Sunderic said.
Lies and fabrications
A DEFIANT Vucic has rejected what he called “lies and fabrications” that the security services targeted the demonstrators with a sonic device. He said that such accusations are part of an alleged Western-orchestrated ploy to topple him.
“If there was a single piece of evidence that a sound cannon was used against demonstrators, then I would no longer be president,” he said.
Serbia’s police, army and the state security agency, BIA, initially all denied possessing the US-made Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD), which is illegal in Serbia and some other countries. When presented with photos of the device mounted on an off-road vehicle and deployed at the rally of hundreds of thousands of protesters, officials admitted possessing a sonic weapon, but insisted it was not used against the protesters.
The photos showed nothing more than “loudspeakers” that also are available on eBay, Interior Minister Ivica Dacic said. The rectangular devices, purchased from a US supplier in 2021, serve to emit warnings to the crowds in case of major trouble, he said.
“Serbian police have never,
including March 15, used any illegal or unallowed device that is not envisaged by the law, including the device known as a sound cannon,” Dacic said. “Police only use sound devices for warnings.”
Sonic weapons use sound waves to incapacitate, disorient or harm individuals by harnessing acoustic energy, causing both physical and psychological effects, such as dizziness, disorientation or severe headaches.
Although often described as non-lethal, their use in military, law enforcement and covert operations has raised serious ethical concerns.
More recently, sonic devices have been used against Somali pirates as well as migrants in Greece and reportedly in Serbia.
Images from the Belgrade protest show what appears to be an LRAD 450XL.
The California-based manufacturer, Genasys, said on X that “the video and audio evidence we have seen and heard thus far does not support the use of an LRAD during the March 15th incident in Belgrade, Serbia.”
complained of headaches, confusion, ear pressure or nausea.
Sasa Cvrkovic, a 23-year-old political science student from Belgrade, described the sound as a “jet that flew past like some kind of wind.” He said that it created panic and a brief stampede: “One young man next to me broke his leg.”
Cvrkovic said he felt nauseous all through the day after the demonstration. Ilic Sunderic said she felt pressure in her head and ears. Reports also have emerged of pressure on doctors at Serbia’s emergency clinics to withhold records of hundreds of people who sought medical help and advice after the rally.
Experts doubt the official version THOMAS WITHINGTON , an expert in electronic warfare, radar and military communications at the Royal United Services Institute think tank, said he reviewed some of the videos from the Belgrade stampede.
Hundreds complained of consequences MANY who were in the crowd later
WBy Will Weissert The Associated Press
ASHINGTON— The attempts by President Donald Trump and top leaders of his administration to downplay a security breach that revealed military strike plans in a Signal group chat including a journalist stand in stark contrast to their reaction to Hillary Clinton’s use of a home server as secretary of state.
He said it was clear that something caused several hundred people to suddenly panic and move in a very specific way, rushing for cover to the pavement and abandoning the middle of the street.
“So certainly, the behavior that you see on the film does appear to be consistent with people reacting en masse to something that is making them feel deeply unsettled or deeply uncomfortable,” he said.
Predrag Petrovic, a research manager at the Belgrade Center for Security Policy, a think tank, said, “We can claim with huge probability that some unconventional weapon, some version of a sonic cannon, was used.”
“I have a lot of experience in participating and monitoring street protests and I have never seen a stampede happen in a second and along an almost straight line,” Petrovic said.
In an online petition signed by over half a million people, the Serbian opposition Move-Change movement asked the United Nations, the Council of Europe and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe for an independent investigation.
Several Serbian rights groups announced Tuesday they have taken the issue to the European Court of Human Rights, saying that they collected more than 4,000 testimonies from people who complained of various physical and psychological problems after the incident on March 15. The court in Strasbourg has given Serbia until the end of the month to respond, the groups said in a joint statement.
“Extraordinary film of people gathering, protesting in the streets peacefully, the demonstration,” he said in an interview. “And suddenly, an almost kind of biblical passing of a huge number of people in a very panicked rush, very sudden and very panicked movement, and the likes of which I must confess I’ve never seen before.”
Vucic’s pro-Russia government, however, invited the US Federal Bureau of Investigation and Russia’s Federal Security Service, the FSB, to investigate. There has been no immediate answer from the American and Russian security agencies. IN this photo provided by the Serbian
In their own words: Trump officials shrugging off Signal leak once decried Clinton’s server
This time, they’ve largely focused their ire not on sweeping potential security lapses, or punishments as a result, but on the journalist who was errantly added to the group text and reported on it: editorin-chief for The Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg. Some of the text’s participants who spoke out against Clinton haven’t commented publicly at all about the Signal leak. One of the chief concerns about Clinton’s e-mail server was that it was insecure, and
that sensitive information could fall into the wrong hands. But former FBI Director James Comey said in recommending that no charges be brought against Clinton that there was no evidence that her e-mail account had been hacked by hostile actors.
Trump insisted Tuesday that no classified information was divulged in the group chat, though Goldberg wrote that messaging revealed “precise information about weapons packages, targets, and timing” of strikes in Yemen. The White House’s National Security Council has said it is investigating.
For her part, Clinton’s reaction to Goldberg’s reporting was one of astonishment: “You have got to be kidding me,” Clinton said in an X post that spotlighted The Atlantic article and included an eyes emoji.
Here’s a look at what some of the officials in the group chat, and some of those steadfastly standing by them, are saying now versus then.
Trump NOW: “The main thing was nothing happened. The attack was totally successful,” Trump said during a meeting with a group of his ambassadors at the White House on Tuesday. He also called his national security adviser, Michael Waltz, “a very good man” and insisted “he will continue to do a very good job,” while adding, “I think it’s very unfair how they attacked Michael” and labeling Goldberg a “total sleazebag.” Later, in an interview with Newsmax,
Trump said a Waltz aide had Goldberg’s number and “this guy ended up on the call.” He also added that he felt good about what occurred. “I can only go by what I’ve been told ... but I feel very comfortable, actually.” Then: “Hillary is the one who sent and received classified information on an insecure server, putting the safety of the American people under threat,” Trump said in an October 2016 speech in Warren, Michigan.
“The rigged system refused to prosecute her for conduct that put all of us, everybody in this room, everybody in this country at risk. Hillary Clinton went to great lengths to create a private email server and to bypass government security in order to keep her emails from being read by the public and by federal officials,” he said in a November 2016 speech in Virginia Beach, Virginia. And, during a Florida rally in July 2016, he even urged Russian hackers to help find a batch of e-mails said to have vanished from Clinton’s private server. “Russia, if you’re listening, I hope you’re able to find the 30,000 e-mails that are missing.”
Waltz NOW : “I think there’s a lot in the lessons for a lot of journalists in this city who have made big names for themselves making up lies about this president,” Waltz said during Tuesday’s White House meeting with Trump and the ambassadors.
“Trump,” A12
Interior Ministry, Serbian Gendarmerie officers show the US-made Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD)—which is illegal in Serbia and many other countries, in Belgrade, Serbia, Wednesday, March 19, 2025. SERBIAN MINISTRY OF
HE Trump administration is making changes to a $42 billion broadband subsidy program that will benefit satellite Internet providers like Elon Musk’s Starlink, but some state and federal officials worry the technology isn’t robust enough to connect Americans on a mass scale and at affordable rates.
The Biden administration’s vision for the Broadband Equity and Access Deployment Program (BEAD), designed to deliver fast, reliable home internet service to every US household, leaned heavily on fiber-optic lines, a technology that’s expensive to install but can last for decades. The shift toward satellites is a result of extensive lobbying by Musk and has gained Republican support, including from Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz. State and former federal officials, several of whom spoke to Bloomberg on the condition of anonymity, described pitfalls with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s new approach, which gives more opportunities for satellite terminals that are initially inexpensive, but can cost more over time. One state official shared internal data that showed satellite service costs consumers 53% more over the course of 30 years. Satellite service would also cost more than twice as much to maintain over that time frame, according the data.
“There does not seem to be a clear understanding of the difference in these technologies, nor in the long-term impacts of making one choice versus another,” said Evan Feinman, the former director of the broadband program under Biden, who left the Commerce Department this month.
Lutnick said recently that he
was reviewing the BEAD program, which was approved by Congress in 2021, due to the previous administration’s “favoritism towards certain technologies.” Lutnick’s department, which also cited a lack of progress in rolling out the service, is revamping the initiative to give it a more “tech neutral approach” that will deliver Internet access “at the lowest cost to taxpayers,” according to a statement from his office.
The change is raising red flags among some state broadband leaders who distribute the federal subsidies, and former officials at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the Commerce branch leading the effort.
Under the original plan, satellite providers were generally only allowed to compete to provide access if the cost of installing fiber exceeded a certain cost per location, a threshold states were allowed to determine themselves. Louisiana, for example, is prepared to spend as much as $100,000 on a single fiber connection.
Lutnick is mulling whether to remove that discretion and set a national benchmark, Feinman said, among other options for reforming the program. Any formula that emphasizes the lowest initial cost to the government will rely heavily on satellites, state and federal officials said.
“The BEAD program is being revamped to take a technologyneutral approach—a needed fix from the prior administration’s one-size-fits-all approach,” said a spokesperson for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which is in charge of the program. “Instead of putting a thumb on the scale for a particular technology, the BEAD program will be rigorously driven by outcomes, so states can provide Internet
access for the lowest cost.”
Fiber, which involves stringing cable to a user’s home, costs at least $1,500 per location to install, according to an analysis shared by one state broadband official who asked not to be identified. However, costs can vary widely depending on where a home is located and how much existing infrastructure surrounds it, among other factors. Texas estimates it can build fiber to a home for roughly $10,000.
By contrast, Starlink, which is part of Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Inc., offers a standard residential kit for around $600, though those costs too can fluctuate.
But Starlink’s satellites need replacing every five years, making their total cost to consumers much higher in the long run, according to the state analysis. Fiber’s overall cost to serve a quarter-million homes is roughly $4 billion less than satellite service over 30 years, according to the state analysis, and would save an individual household $15,600 over the same period.
A shift toward satellite generally translates into profit for Starlink, which is one of two low-earth orbit satellite providers that’s operational in the US right now, with 7,000 satellites. The other, Eutelsat Communications SA’s OneWeb, has 630 satellites in orbit. Amazon.com Inc.’s Project Kuiper plans to launch its first satellites later this year and emerge as another competitor, although the company has faced recent setbacks to its rollout. The Wall Street Journal reported that Starlink is in line to receive $4.1 billion under the current Bidenera BEAD rules, but that a change to favor more satellite use could steer $10 billion to $20 billion to the company.
As a final missive in his old role, Feinman sent an e-mail to
colleagues warning that the Commerce Department is on a collision course to “stranding all or part of rural America with worse Internet so that we can make the world’s richest man even richer.”
SpaceX, Amazon and OneWeb didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Any new federal edict that caps state spending on fiber will require states to renegotiate contracts and potentially delay the program by another year to 18 months, a state official said. States like West Virginia and Missouri, which recently finished selecting infrastructure partners, would be sent back to the drawing board even though the former plans to connect the entire state with fiber, and the latter will reach the vast majority of the state with the technology while remaining within their budgets.
There are other reasons the original BEAD program favored fiber networks. Fiber delivers high speeds at lower latency levels than satellites, which can suffer from network congestion and environmental interference, according to the state data.
Fiber is capable of achieving one gigabit upload and download speeds, enough to stream highdefinition videos on multiple devices, transmit large files and run nearly a dozen smart home devices at once without any buffering. Starlink’s standard home service offers 100 megabits per second download and 20 mbps upload speeds—the Federal Communications Commission’s baseline for modern Internet speeds— which is typically enough to support some high-quality streaming across several devices and fast file downloads.
State leaders also like fiber projects for their local economic impact. Whereas satellite infrastructure
concentrates economic growth in manufacturing centers, fiber builds rely on workers inside a community to install and maintain the networks.
Satellite broadband proponents note that the industry is rapidly adding capacity as more satellites come online, and government subsidies typically help fiber providers keep their consumer prices low—something satellite internet doesn’t yet benefit from.
“There are multiple satellite companies that are capable of providing broadband today,” said Tom Stroup, president of the Satellite Industry Association. “We’re hopeful that the examinations that are underway will make multiple satellite companies eligible for funding.”
Starlink applied several years ago for nearly $900 million in subsidies from the FCC’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, but was denied because the agency found Musk’s company hadn’t shown it could fulfill the requirements to deploy a network of the scale required.
The Starlink system has expanded since then and Musk has aggressive plans to build it out even further. But the saga left a lingering question of whether the company is being realistic about its capabilities, according to another state official who asked not to be identified.
Federal and state officials have been quick to say they don’t believe Starlink is inherently a bad company or that low-earth orbit satellite internet isn’t good technology. They just don’t see it as the best solution for connecting large swaths of the country.
Satellite service was always expected to “be a big part of the program and a necessary part of the program,” said Alan Davidson, the former NTIA head who oversaw the Biden administration’s rollout of the program. “We just wanted to
give states the flexibility to choose how much.”
Amazon’s Project Kuiper is already included in Nevada’s broadband infrastructure plan and many other states plan to cover a small percentage of their hard-toreach areas with satellite service.
The nonprofit Information Technology and Innovation Foundation said in paper published in January that states could provide cheaper service in many locations with Starlink, and it suggested fiber spending shouldn’t exceed $1,200 per location—twice the cost of a Starlink terminal at the time.
Ellis Scherer, one of the paper’s authors, said that the group is generally hopeful that other technologies will get a fair shot at competing for funding with the addition of reasonable financial guardrails. He suggested that $75,000 or more is too much to spend on a single fiber location.
“Our biggest concern is that there’s not egregious spending on fiber just for fiber’s sake,” he said in an interview.
Arielle Roth, who is poised to shape the future of the BEAD program as the next nominated NTIA head, is scheduled to appear for a confirmation hearing on March 27 where her policies will take center stage. Roth has publicly criticized the program and said it should be technology neutral.
In the meantime, states are left in a holding pattern, with several unable to begin building approved projects until regulators in Washington sign off on their final budgets. Others are left wondering whether they should continue selecting infrastructure partners amid the uncertainty.
There’s still time to tweak the program without impeding states’ progress or forcing them to prioritize satellite in areas where it doesn’t make sense, Feinman said. Bloomberg News
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Wall Street’s dark pools go deeper: New ‘private rooms’ raise concerns over market transparency
By Katherine Doherty
WALL Street’s infamous dark pools are getting even darker. A decade after being engulfed by a controversy that culminated in multiple enforcement actions and a regulator clampdown, these offexchange trading platforms are touting a way to buy and sell stocks that’s even more opaque.
They’re offering what are dubbed private rooms, gated venues that take the core benefit of a dark pool—the ability to hide big equity deals so they won’t impact prices—and add exclusivity, specifying exactly who can partake in any trade.
Created within the dark pools themselves, the rooms are independent from one another and each is invisible to anyone not invited, raising questions about both market transparency and fragmentation. But with more than half of all US stock trading now happening away from public exchanges, they’re in high demand from firms eager to choose whom they do business with, often to help them carry out individual orders more efficiently.
“It’s like shopping when you know exactly the item you want, and who and where you are buying or selling it from, instead of going to Walmart on Black Friday,” says David Cannizzo, the head of electronic trading at Raymond James and Associates. “You’re controlling the terms of engagement.”
Right now, it’s impossible to say how many private rooms exist, or how much activity is moving through them. Companies operating alternative trading systems, or ATS—the formal term for dark pools—say it’s a minority of their volumes at present, since the growth in demand is a relatively new phenomenon.
But they’re seeing rapid adoption by everyone from brokerdealers and market makers to hedge funds and asset managers, so much so that private-room volumes at one major ATS—Stamford, Connecticut-based IntelligentCross—now eclipse the total trading activity at nine rival darkpool operators. Dark pools are so-called because the trades they handle happen away from the “lit” public exchange. That helps prevent order details leaking to the broader market and triggering adverse price
Continued from A10
He also said of Goldberg, “This journalist, Mr. President, wants the world talking about more hoaxes.”
In a subsequent interview on Fox News Channel’s “The Ingraham Angle,” Waltz said, “I take full responsibility. I built the group.” He also contradicted Trump by saying that no staffer was responsible.
Waltz further acknowledged, “embarrassing, yes” and said, “We made a mistake. We’re moving forward.”
Then: “How is it Hillary Clinton can delete 33,000 government e-mails on a
moves before they can be executed. But there’s still a downside: a pool is open to anyone, and firms inside never know who their counterparty is in any trade. Private rooms can be even more discreet.
“It’s about exercising control, what liquidity a broker wants to interact with to achieve better execution quality,” says Roman Ginis, CEO of Imperative Execution, the parent company of IntelligentCross.
There are myriad reasons why users may opt for private rooms. Take the case of CastleOak Securities, a New York-based minorityrun brokerage. The firm wants to trade with similarly minded businesses, so it uses a private room provided by the ATS operator OneChronos.
“It’s about exercising control, what liquidity a broker wants to interact with”
Carlos Cabana, head of equity sales and trading at CastleOak, dubs the room a “diversity pool,” because the participants are all minority-operated brokerage firms. While in this instance CastleOak doesn’t know specifically who is on the other side of every trade, it knows it will be one of about 10 counterparties who meet certain eligibility criteria related to ownership and investment goals.
“Think of it as an apartment that’s hosting a party, and there’s one purpose for the party with only invited guests,” says Cabana.
Thanks to CastleOak’s increasing use of the diversity pool, OneChronos is now its third mostused trading venue, behind only the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, Cabana says.
Execution excellence
PRIVATE rooms are known by a slew of other names including hosted pools, restricted-access rooms, ATS pools, and custom counterparty groups. They’re gaining popularity in the huge, ultrafast modern market as a way to help firms avoid losing out against
private server, yet President Trump gets indicted for having documents he could declassify?” Waltz posted in June 2023, referencing charges against Trump for mishandling classified documents. The case was scrapped after Trump won a second term.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth NOW : “Nobody was texting war plans,” Hegseth told journalists traveling with him in Hawaii on Monday. He said of Goldberg, “You’re talking about a deceitful and highly discredited so-called journalist who’s made a profession of peddling hoaxes.”
Then: “Any security professional, military, government or otherwise, would
players who may be able to move quicker or who have access to superior information.
For instance, many brokers and market makers are keen to take the other side of retail investor orders. Those small, less volatile trades are generally unlikely to impact prices—so a market maker won’t see an adverse move occur the instant it agrees to fill an order, as might happen with another type of counterparty.
High-frequency traders love business with Robinhood BROKERS who take orders to private rooms typically expect to fill the order at the midpoint of the national-best-bid and offer, or NBBO (assuming the rule of the room is set up that way, which is usually the case). If for some reason the order is not filled in the room at the midpoint, it can move to the broader ATS where multiple other parties can compete to fill it. And if a broker has bad experiences with a private room, they can change to another in the future, avoiding those counterparties.
“The problem we have is, how do we identify good versus bad liquidity?” says Jatin Suryawanshi, global head of quant strategy at Jefferies, who estimates that 15 in every 100 shares executed by the firm’s algorithms currently move via a room. “In using private rooms, you can prioritize who you want to interact with.”
Private room growth has accelerated amid the migration of stock trading away from public exchanges and as their use has become more common. They emerged at the ATS firm LeveL as far back as 18 years ago. LeveL started by allowing firms to match their own orders, in what’s known as internalization. That expanded to other forms of segmentation, including bi-lateral and multi-lateral agreements, where one party agrees to trade with another, or multiple parties agree to only interact with each other, within the same ATS.
Following requests from its own clients, IntelligentCross started offering its version of private rooms about a year-and-a-half ago, and OneChronos joined the party last year.
Private rooms are not generally needed by big banks or brokers who have the resources to create their own ATS or what are called singledealer platforms. That’s another breed of off-exchange trading venue where the operator is always the counterparty to any trade.
But for smaller players, it’s too expensive and cumbersome to build and manage an ATS or SDP, meet the associated regulatory reporting requirements and set up the necessary connections. Arranging a private room at an established ATS is a solution.
“There are various factors of
be fired on the spot for this type of conduct and criminally prosecuted for being so reckless with this kind of information,” Hegseth, then a regular contributor for Fox News Channel, said of Clinton’s e-mails on the network in 2016.
That same year, Hegseth asked on Fox News, “How damaging is it to your ability to recruit or build allies with others when they are worried that our leaders may be exposing them because of their gross negligence or their recklessness in handling information?”
In another 2016 Fox News segment, Hegseth said, “If it was anyone other than Hillary Clinton, they would be in jail right now for what has been done. Because the assumption is, in the intelligence
why a firm would want to outsource this activity than keep it in house,” says Steve Miele, CEO of Kezar Markets, the parent of LeveL. “It could be a cost, an overhead they don’t necessarily have to take on if we can build it, then scale it” using the existing network, he says. “We lower the barrier to entry.”
At IntelligentCross, the majority of rooms currently offered serve institutional brokers that don’t have capacity to conduct similar activities internally. Jefferies trades in a private room provided by the firm where it interacts with seven other brokers who don’t have their own ATS, but have institutional orders, according to Suryawanshi.
“These are always created at the request of a subscriber, who is the host that invites others to be guests in their book,” says Ginis at Imperative Execution.
Dark disclosure
NOT every ATS is rushing to embrace private rooms. New Yorkbased PureStream offers “pools” that operate like rooms, but they are disclosed to all subscribers if they are created, and anyone can join. In essence, the room is open to all.
So far no one has asked to set up a pool at PureStream, so there is zero volume in so-called sub-pools,
community, if you are using unclassified means, there is the potential for, and likelihood, that foreign governments are targeting those accounts and gathering intelligence from them.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio NOW : No public comment on the Signal group chat.
Then: “Nobody is above the law, not even Hillary Clinton—even though she thinks she is,” Rubio told Fox News in January 2016.
The previous year in a Fox News interview, Rubio referred to the same emails when he said, “What they did is reckless— it’s complete recklessness and incompetence.”
according to CEO Armando Diaz. He says offering a private room that isn’t open to all subscribers raises questions about the regulation. “The more the host controls the room, the more they are operating an ATS, and that opens up regulatory risk,” he says.
Perhaps the biggest criticism of private rooms is that they create phantom liquidity, because transactions taking place inside a room are simply lumped in with the total activity reported by its dark pool parent. That creates a misleading picture for anyone trying to gauge market depth, since reported trading volumes include activity not available to those outside the room.
ATS are regulated trading venues, overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which in 2018 enhanced its supervision of such venues by imposing new disclosure requirements. Each dark pool must now file a form, ATSN, which gives an overview about the specific trading mechanisms on its platform.
These publicly available forms go into various details, including whether private rooms are available. But they don’t say how many exist or who is in them, and the varying language and levels of disclosure used mean it can sometimes be difficult to determine if
Deputy chief of staff for policy
Stephen Miller NOW : No public comment on the Signal leak. Then: Miller posted in 2022: “One point that doesn’t get made enough about
an ATS is even hosting any rooms. Wall Street Dark Pools to Come Out of Shadows Thanks to SEC “There are no rules to force ATS to break out the identity of singledealer rooms or their volume,” Larry Tabb, head of market structure at Bloomberg Intelligence, wrote in a May note. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority “does a good job of ATS volume reporting on a post-execution basis. Yet there are no rules to aid analysts or users looking to break down the percentage of ATS volume executed in the open pool vs. the private room, or the volume executed using segmentation strategies,” he wrote.
“It’s about exercising control, what liquidity a broker wants to interact with” Dark pools are no strangers to transparency worries. Their opacity provoked extensive media coverage and regulatory scrutiny about a decade ago amid speculation they gave high-frequency firms advantages against other investors—attention partly prompted by the bestselling book Flash Boys. Representatives for both Finra and the SEC declined to comment.
‘Growth mode’ FOR their users, private rooms are a handy tool, but still one of a set. Hosted pools represent a single-digit percentage of IntelligentCross’s overall volumes for now — an average of about 5.4% last year—because they’re so new, according to Ginis. “It will take brokers some time to optimize for this,” he says. CEO of OneChronos Capital Markets Vlad Khandros says its rooms represent less than 5% of volume at present as “it’s newer for us, so it’s still in growth mode.” But demand is strong. “We’ve seen increased interest from both retail and institutional brokers,” Khand ros says. “The focus on execution quality will continue to grow.” LeveL declined to disclose the number of rooms it operates or how much activity takes place in them, with Miele saying the absence of industry-wide criteria for categorizing rooms means it could be “misleading to quantify.” Mark Gurliacci, senior vice president and senior quantitative trader at AllianceBernstein, reckons up to 75% of the firm’s activity is now happening off-exchange, including in private rooms. While the latter is a small slice of their trading at present, he thinks it’s set to grow.
“Many firms are setting up private rooms these days,” says Gurliacci, who used to work for the NYSE. “They are innovative, and here to stay. There is more going on there than most people know.” With assistance from Lydia Beyoud/Bloomberg
DepEd probe on voucher program anomalies results in ₧65M recovery
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
THE Department of Education recovered some P65 million about a month after launching an investigation into anomalies involving Senior High School Voucher Program (SHS-VP) claims for School Years (SY) 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.
DepEd demanded refunds from 54 private schools flagged for irregularities in the SHS-VP.
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara noted that these interventions prevented the release of inconsistent or questionable claims in the future.
“We are taking decisive steps to strengthen our validation processes, hold erring schools accountable, and restore public trust in the SHS Voucher Program,” Angara said.
Of the 54 schools terminated from the SHS-VP, 38 have fully refunded the government, while two have made partial refunds. However, 14 schools have yet to return the funds, and final demand letters will be issued to ensure compliance.
DepEd noted that further investigation is needed to determine whether these financial irregularities constitute fraud.
For SY 2023-2024, 12 schools are being probed by DepEd’s Investigation Division. Additionally, three schools flagged by the Government Assistance and Subsidies Service (GASS) have also been forwarded to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for parallel investigation.
To prevent a recurrence of such irregularities, DepEd, in coordination with the Private Education Assistance Committee
(Peac), has implemented actions to further enhance oversight and accountability starting SY 2024-2025.
Among these actions are cross-referencing and verification of information and the conduct of 100 percent system audit as well as random field visits to participating private schools.
DepEd’s regional and schools division offices have been mobilized to carry out inspections and submit detailed reports to the Central Office. Tightening of the validation processes have likewise been implemented to ensure that only eligible learners benefit from the program.
Further measures, Deped said, are set to be implemented in the coming months, including PEAC’s validation for the second semester, scheduled to roll out next month, and the establishment of a billing schedule in SY 2025-2026 to streamline the disbursement process.
Beyond financial oversight, other strands within DepEd are also stepping up reforms. The Private Education Office (PEO) is working on Senior High School recognition to strengthen regulatory compliance.
The Information and Communications Technology Service (ICTS) is likewise enhancing digital safeguards, including features on audit trail, automated email notifications for system changes, and a full school history of learners.
The DepEd assured stakeholders that it will continue strengthening its oversight mechanisms to uphold integrity and fairness in private school participation in the government’s education subsidy programs.
Move against increase in number of Taguig councilors snowballs
for Other Electoral Reforms…)
LBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
EADERS of several nongovernment organizations (NGOs) in Taguig City have backed the petition filed by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Dante Tinga seeking to declare unconstitutional the ordinance passed by the Taguig City Council on September 2024 that increased the number of councilor seats of the city from eight to 12 per councilor district.
In a Motion to Allow Joinder of New Party-Petitioners, the NGO leaders also called on the SC to immediately resolve Tinga’s petition that was filed in October 2024 and has been pending since then.
They maintained that the increase in councilors in each district should be covered by a law passed by Congress and signed by the President.
“The prospective petitioners have decided to join the petition particularly on account of their conviction that the increase of the number of councilors per district should be authorized by a valid law duly enacted by the Congress and approved by the
President in accordance with the Constitution, similar to the present number of councilors per district,” the motion read.
“The assailed increase of councilors per district from eight to twelve per councilor district was accomplished by an invalid city ordinance, sought to be validated by a hastily passed Concurrent Resolution, that does not have the force and effect of a law, and likewise sought to be implemented by an ill-advised Resolution of the Commission on Elections (Comelec),” they added.
Among the new petitioners are Salvacion Robianes, acting president of the Kababaihan
Naia operator continues waterways clean up drive
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
Nng Taguig Women’s Association (Balikatan); Patria U. Villalon, president of the Upper Bicutan Bayanihan Movement (UBBM); and Jennifer V. Corpin, president of the Tenement Homeowners’ Association in Western Bicutan.
The Taguig City Council passed Ordinance 144 on September 16, 2024 following the SC’s final ruling which barred Makati City from exercising jurisdiction over and making improvements on, or otherwise treating as part of its territory Parcels 3 and 4, Psu 2031, comprising Fort Bonifacio, including the so-called Inner Fort which include barangays Pembo, Comembo, Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo , Pitogo, Rizal, Post Proper Northside, Post Proper Southside or what are collectively called as the “Embo barangays.”
It held that the said areas are part of the jurisdiction of the Taguig City.
The Senate and the House ratified the city ordinance through a concurrent resolution. The Comelec then promulgated a resolution allowing the implementation of the assailed said ordinance.
The petitioners maintained that the current composition of councilors which is eight per councilor district is provided in Republic Act 6636 enacted in 1987 (An Act Resetting the Local Elections From November 9, 1987 to January 18, 1988) and Republic Act 7166 (An Act Providing for Synchronized National and Local Elections and
They added that RA 8487 (City Charter of Taguig) that was enacted in 1998 reaffirmed the number of councilors in the city per district.
In his petition, Tinga sought the issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) to enjoin the implementation of the ordinance.
The retired SC justice argued that increasing the number of city councilors requires a law and that such power exclusively belongs to Congress.
Tinga named the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Senate and the House of Representatives as respondents in the petition.
He noted that the concurrent resolution of both chambers does not have “the force and effect of law” since it did not undergo the prescribed three readings for a measure to become law under the Constitution.
Likewise, Tinga said it did not bear the required signature of the President which is mandated under the Constitution.
Tinga said the legal issue could have been avoided had the registered voters of the 10 Embo barangays been fully franchised through an appropriate law making of the said Embo barangays as the third legislative district of Taguig City.
Tinga pointed out that as early as June 26, 2024, he wrote Speaker Martin Romualdez to propose the creation of a new legislative district out of the 10 Embos, with a draft bill enclosed.
PNP warns poll saboteurs
By Rex Anthony Naval
EW Naia Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC), the private operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia), said on Wednesday it has removed more than 139,000 metric tons of waste and silt from waterways around the country’s main gateway. The initiative, which covered some three kilometers of waterways along the Parañaque River, Don Galo River, and the Villanueva Creek, aims to reduce flooding that has long plagued the airport and nearby areas in Parañaque. A total of 139,158 metric tons of accumulated waste and sediment have been dredged so far, with support from San Miguel Corp.’s (SMC) Better Rivers PH initiative.
and we will uphold it without reservation or intent to evade our responsibilities,” he added.
Libanan reiterated that the Constitution mandates urgency in impeachment trials, requiring proceedings to begin “forthwith” when an impeachment complaint is filed by at least one-third of House members.
The complaint against the Vice President was signed by 215 House members— more than two-thirds of the 306-member chamber.
“What does ‘forthwith’ mean? It means right away, without delay. As part of the 11-member prosecution team, we must abide by this and fulfill our duties and responsibilities,” the House Minority Leader said.
The initiative is part of a broader flood mitigation program launched by NNIC after taking over Naia’s operations in September 2024. It includes clearing silted rivers, unclogging storm drains, upgrading drainage systems, and constructing new infrastructure to improve water flow during heavy rains.
“Protecting Naia from
“We, too, would like to campaign and take a break, but due to this constitutional provision, we have no choice. As for different interpretations, I suggest we review the law. We respect inter-parliamentary courtesy, but ultimately, the people will decide—and if necessary, the Supreme Court can rule on this matter,” he said.
Libanan expressed confidence that the Senate would deliberate on the pleadings filed by the prosecution panel.
“The senators will discuss the matter among themselves. Senate President Chiz Escudero is a seasoned legislator who understands this process well. I believe he will not decide on this matter alone. The Senate knows the significance of this case, and they will deliberate on it collectively,” he said.
The House of Representatives
flooding is a long-term investment in safety and reliability,” said NNIC President Ramon S. Ang. “We’re putting in the infrastructure needed to keep the airport flood-free, but we also need the public’s help.”
The company has also cleaned and restored 67 manholes, replaced 17 covers, and installed seven new manholes along critical roads such as Domestic Road, Naia Road, Airport Road, and Andrews Avenue to prevent floodwaters from backing up into the airport complex.
The project is being carried out in coordination with the Department of Transportation
formally served the entry with motion to issue summons to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) on Wednesday, officially notifying Vice President Sara Duterte of the impeachment proceedings against her.
The Senate received the motion on March 24, 2025, with a copy delivered to the Vice President’s office on the 11th floor of Robinsons Cybergate Plaza in Mandaluyong City. The OVP acknowledged receipt of the documents at 11:20 am on Wednesday.
VP Duterte is currently in The Hague, the Netherlands, where her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The House has requested Senate President and Impeachment Court Presiding Officer Francis Escudero to
(DOTr), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the City Government of Parañaque.
NNIC is also preparing to install a modern drainage system, build flood barriers, and construct a stormwater pumping station within the Naia complex.
“To everyone in the community, please don’t throw garbage into streets or waterways. It all ends up in rivers and canals, blocking water flow and making floods worse. We can only succeed if we all do our part,” Ang said.
issue a writ of summons, directing VP Duterte to formally respond to the Verified Complaint for Impeachment within 10 days of receiving it.
The impeachment complaint, endorsed by 215 House members, was transmitted to the Senate on February 5, 2025, in compliance with Section 3, Article XI of the Constitution, which mandates that an impeachment complaint backed by at least one-third of House members constitutes Articles of Impeachment, prompting the Senate to begin the trial.
The motion said that under the Senate’s Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials, issuing a writ of summons is mandatory upon receipt of the Articles of Impeachment. It also cited Senate Resolution No. 39 (March 23, 2011), which governs impeachment proceedings.
THE National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said the full force of the law will be imposed against persons or groups planning to disrupt the May elections.
This as the local campaign period for the May midterm elections formally kicks off this March 28.
“To those who seek to sow fear, intimidate voters, or manipulate the elections through violence—this is your final warning: the full force of the law will be upon you. We will not tolerate any attempt to undermine our democracy,” Gen. Rommel Marbil, National Police chief, said.
And with the campaign period now underway, Marbil directed all regional, provincial, city, and municipal police commanders to take the lead in ensuring that the electoral process remains peaceful, honest, and orderly.
He emphasized that law enforcers must anticipate threats, act swiftly, and maintain strict neutrality.
Marbil also told police personnel that he expects a proactive approach in preventing election-related violence.
“Commanders on the ground must anticipate threats, act swiftly, and maintain strict neutrality. I expect a proactive stance against any form of electionrelated violence,” he emphasized.
The PNP has already deployed calibrated security operations nationwide, focusing on election hotspots and areas with intense political rivalries. These measures include intensified intelligence gathering, expanded police presence, and close coordination with the Commission on Elections, the Armed Forces (AFP), and other government agencies.
“We have established police assistance desks at campaign venues and deployed additional personnel to vulnerable areas. Our quick reaction forces are on standby. Let it be clear—we are ready,” Marbil said. He also warned police personnel against engaging in partisan politics.
“There will be zero tolerance for any form of partisanship. Any officer found violating election protocols will face immediate administrative and criminal consequences,” he warned.
Marbil called on candidates and their supporters to uphold the law and reject violence, reminding them of their responsibility to lead by example.
“Candidates must set the tone for a peaceful election. Leadership begins with respecting the rules of democratic engagement,” he said.
Promoting dignified aging: Long-term care, economic opportunities, and overall well-being
AS the Philippines braces for a rapid aging of its population over the next decade, the call by Bicol Saro Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan to invest in long-term care programs and job facilitation initiatives for senior citizens is a timely and critical one. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Legislator eyes long-term govt care, job programs for seniors,” March 25, 2025).
With estimates suggesting that the elderly population will comprise approximately 8.5 percent of the Philippine population in just a few years, it is crucial that we take prompt and decisive action to safeguard their well-being. It is essential that we provide our senior citizens with the opportunity to age with dignity, comfort, and the necessary resources, enabling them to live their golden years with the respect, care, and support they deserve.
While our current social pensions, discounts, and cash assistance programs offer temporary reprieve, they fail to address the underlying, deeper problem, serving only as superficial fixes rather than sustainable solutions. We need to think beyond short-term fixes and invest in sustainable programs that promote active and healthy aging, as well as provide support for frail and dependent elderly individuals. Rep. Yamsuan’s call to action is timely and well-received. His proposed bills, including HB 7980, HB 7971, and HB 10630, demonstrate a clear understanding of the challenges that lie ahead. By instituting long-term care programs, prohibiting abuses against senior citizens, and promoting job opportunities for seniors and persons with disabilities, we can create a supportive ecosystem that allows our elderly population to thrive.
It is heartening to see that Congress has already approved HB 10985, or the proposed Employment Opportunities for Senior Citizens and Private Entities Incentives Act, which encourages job creation for seniors who meet the qualifications and are willing to work. This is a significant step forward in recognizing the value and potential of our senior citizens.
However, more needs to be done. We must prioritize the development of elderly-focused health services, including rehabilitative and hospice care, to ensure that our senior citizens receive the quality care they deserve. We must also invest in social protection programs, livelihood and job generation initiatives, social insurance, and lifelong education and training to support their physical and mental well-being.
As Rep. Yamsuan so aptly put it, “We highly value and love our senior citizens. They should have a stable support system so that they can remain active, productive, and healthy members of our society.”
It is our shared obligation to guarantee that our senior citizens are treated with dignity and respect. Our elderly population possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience that can greatly benefit our communities. We should empower them to continue using their skills and experience to benefit society, even in their later stages of life. Not only is this the morally correct course of action, but it will also have a profound impact on our society, fostering a more cohesive and age-inclusive community that benefits everyone.
BusinessMirror
Antonio L. Cabangon Chua
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez
Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio
Sucker money
TG. Reyes
D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa Rolando M. Manangan
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John Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
HE little guy has been the sucker since Cain wacked Abel with the rock. History is a broken record—powerful men with fat wallets rigging the game, while the regular Juan grabs the short stick. Do not fool yourself: it is not a conspiracy; it is just human nature with a side of greed. Look at Bumpy Johnson handing out Christmas turkeys to Harlem’s poor in the 1950s, but it was not charity. It was a gangster buying loyalty while he ran “jueteng” and broke kneecaps. The little guy cheered for the bird, blind to the noose.
The same tune plays a dance in Medellín. Pablo Escobar built soccer fields and basketball courts pouring drug money into slums to pose as Robin Hood. The locals loved him, kicked balls on his turf, while he flooded streets with cocaine and corpses. The poor got a game; Pablo got a shield. And there never was the Pablo Escobar High-on-Life Rehab Center.
Who is the sucker? The guy who thinks “free” means the big man cares.
Jump back to 1931, New York’s Five Families establish The Commission and not from a movie script. Purpose? Maintain peace so the Godfathers could rake in millions from rackets without shooting each other. Effect? The little guy paid the
protection money, while the bosses sipped Chianti and counted the haul. Structure did not save the sucker; it just made the squeeze smoother. War is the ultimate hustle. “Rich men send poor men to die” is not poetry; it is accounting. World War I proved it. Millionaires like Rockefeller churned out oil and steel, while farm boys choked on mustard gas. The rich grew richer; the poor got graves. Vietnam? Same story. Wall Street funded the machine, and the draft snagged the working mules. The little guy’s blood is the ink in history’s ledger, and the big guy always holds the pen.
Now, consider money—your money. The 2008 crash was a masterclass in shafting the small fry. Big banks
Here is the kicker: it is not changing. The little guy keeps buying the dream—hard work, loyalty, a fair shake—while the big guy writes the rules. Bumpy’s turkeys, Escobar’s fields, The Commission’s handshake, war’s cannon fodder, Wall Street’s sleight of hand—it is all the same hustle. You are not paranoid if they are really out to get you, and they are. So, what is the play?
like Goldman Sachs peddled toxic mortgage junk to pension funds and hedge fund manager John Paulson made $20 billion betting against it with swaps. When the scam collapsed, the little guy’s pension fund tanked, his house faced foreclosure, and the suits got bailouts. Goldman made billions while grandma lost her nest egg. The stock market is not a House Of Equality.
Here is the kicker: it is not changing. The little guy keeps buying the dream—hard work, loyalty, a fair shake—while the big guy writes the rules. Bumpy’s turkeys, Escobar’s fields, The Commission’s handshake, war’s cannon fodder, Wall Street’s sleight of hand—it is all the same hustle. You are not paranoid if they are really out to get you, and they are. So, what is the play?
Keep your eyes open, hold your
China floods the world with AI models after DeepSeek’s success
By Saritha Rai and Yazhou Sun
DEEPSEEK did more than just show the AI industry you don’t have to spend billions to build artificial intelligence. It fired up a long-dormant Chinese tech industry—and now Western names from OpenAI Inc. to Nvidia Corp. may pay the price.
Since DeepSeek upstaged OpenAI in January with a powerful model that purportedly cost just several million dollars to build, China’s tech leaders have flooded the market with a rapid succession of low-cost AI services, undercutting premium offerings from the likes of OpenAI and Alphabet Inc.’s Google. Chinese companies have in the past two weeks rolled out no fewer than 10 major product updates or releases—and that’s just the big names. Baidu Inc. unfurled the Ernie X1 in direct competition with DeepSeek’s R1. Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. followed suit with its own AI agents and reasoning model upgrade. Just in the past week, Tencent Holdings Ltd. trotted out its AI blueprint and answer to the R1; Ant Group Co. shared findings on how Chinese chips can slash costs by a fifth; Deep-
Seek itself upgraded the V3 model.
Even Meituan—best known as the world’s biggest meal-delivery service—announced it was splashing out billions of dollars on AI. The rapidly accelerating array of enhancements and tune-ups is more than Chinese companies jumping on the DeepSeek bandwagon. Collectively, the AI models—nearly all of them open-sourced—represent the developers’ effort to set world standards and benchmarks, and grab a bigger slice of the global market. While the jury is out on whether these AI releases match or surpass the most cutting-edge systems from Western AI developers, these newer options are putting more pressure on the business models of leading US companies.
OpenAI, for one, is now trying to strike a careful balance. The Chat-
Chinese companies have in past years squeezed out global rivals in industries as varied as electric vehicles and solar panels, by outmanufacturing and undercutting their competitors. The pattern may be replicating itself in AI.
GPT maker has said it’s mulling giving away some of its technology following DeepSeek’s success with the open-source approach. At the same time, OpenAI is still weighing charging far more for its most sophisticated products. If DeepSeek’s low-cost template is replicated, that may also shrink the profits for Nvidia which specializes in the expensive AI chips, making valuation “adjustments” inevitable, said Amr Awadallah, founder and chief executive officer of Vectara Inc. Chinese companies have in past years squeezed out global rivals in industries as varied as electric vehicles and solar panels, by outmanufacturing and undercutting their competitors. The pattern may be replicating itself in AI. It’s a “big problem,” said the Palo
cash close, and trust nobody. Not your neighbor, not your broker, not the politician offering salvation for your vote. The game is rigged, stacked against you like a house of cards on quicksand, but you can duck the sucker punch. Learn how or never play.
The big guy—mob boss, stock market shark, or slick warlord with a jet —has no plans for wealth-sharing or fair play. Do not expect a crumb, coin, or a seat at his table. He carves the lechon, that fat-dripping pig, on a banquet table that bans you, feasting and laughing at you scrambling for scraps.
This is not a fairy tale of triumph through heart and hustle. It is a slaughterhouse, and you do not hold the meat cleaver. Do not count on the government to save you either. The SEC fiddles with red tape; the cops suddenly go blind. The courts favor the connected, and the press chases headlines instead of truth. Not all are corrupt or incompetent. But the system twists them too, and you are still exposed. None of them can or will shield you from the grind.
The big guy banks on your hope, your faith, to keep you muzzled and on a leash as he sharpens his blade. He is no friend, just the chef eyeing you for the spit.
E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.
Alto-based Awadallah, whose startup helps enterprises build and deploy AI agents and AI Assistants. “We’re about to see a trend toward significant margin compression for companies throughout the ecosystem. Not just AI model builders, but the large AI enablers that are also driving the growth of the industry.” The open-source, high-performance, resource-efficient models that followed DeepSeek’s January announcement are being replicated and used globally, including in the US and India—even as businesses and government officials in these countries move to restrict access to DeepSeek itself on employee devices. Chinese developers are reshaping the market and calling into question the massive infrastructure investments pledged by big US tech companies such as OpenAI and Microsoft Corp. “If you assume the Chinese LLM players’ intent is to disrupt the market and steal share, it’s worked,” said James Wilton, managing partner and founder of Monevate, a consultancy for tech companies. “They might be willing to eat up the costs See “China” A15
Russian crude flows hit five-month high while peace talks drag
By Julian Lee
RUSSIA’S oil exports rose to a five-month high while US-initiated talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict drag on.
Crude flows from all Russian ports in the four weeks to March 23 edged up to 3.45 million barrels a day, the highest since the period to Oct. 20. The increase came despite a slump in weekly flows, driven by fewer shipments from the Baltic and Black Sea.
Crude exports have been boosted by a new short-haul customer in the Mediterranean—post-Assad Syria. A first cargo of Russian crude, carried on a tanker sanctioned by the US, arrived at the Syrian port of Baniyas late last week. Three more vessels, all blacklisted by Washington, appear to be on their way.
US hopes of achieving a broad ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine are unlikely to be realized any time soon. Discussions between American and Russian teams in the Saudi Arabia capital Riyadh on Monday focused on safety of navigation in the Black Sea, but the Kremlin said it won’t disclose details of the 12 hours of negotiations. President Donald Trump’s assertion that he would end the war in day has run up against a Russian leader, Vladimir Putin, whose forces are making gains on the battlefield.
Delivery difficulties and covert transfers EARLIER difficulties in discharging some Russian cargoes continue to ease.
Three tankers hauling crude from Murmansk are signaling destinations in India. While the ships themselves haven’t been sanctioned by the US, they have been blacklisted by the UK and the European Union, and the cargoes spent part of their journey on US-sanctioned shuttle tankers and passed through a sanctioned floating storage unit. It remains to be seen whether the cargoes will be accepted at India’s ports, where they are due to arrive toward the end of the month.
In the Pacific, cargoes of crude from the two Sakhalin projects continue to be transferred from sanctioned shuttles onto other ships in Nakhodka Bay for onward delivery to China.
At least three cargo switches took place last week. A combination of the vessels disappearing from digital tracking systems and heavy cloud cover obscuring satellite imagery has made it impossible to immediately identify the receiving vessels.
A fourth cargo transfer took place off Hong Kong.
About 2.1 million barrels of Russia’s Pacific crude remains on tankers that have been idle for at least seven days; that’s half the amount seen last week and down from 9 million barrels a month ago.
Crude shipments
A TOTAL of 28 tankers loaded 21.2 million barrels of Russian crude in the week to March 23, vessel-tracking data and port-agent reports show. The volume was down sharply from a revised 24.88 million barrels on 33 ships the previous week.
Crude flows in the seven days to March 23 stood at about 3.03 million barrels a day, a week-on-week decline of about 530,000 barrels a day.
The drop was driven by lower shipments of Russian Urals crude from the Baltic and Black Sea ports.
Despite the slump, the less vola-
Three tankers hauling crude from Murmansk are signaling destinations in India. While the ships themselves haven’t been sanctioned by the US, they have been blacklisted by the UK and the European Union, and the cargoes spent part of their journey on US-sanctioned shuttle tankers and passed through a sanctioned floating storage unit. It remains to be seen whether the cargoes will be accepted at India’s ports, where they are due to arrive toward the end of the month.
tile four-week average flows edged higher to about 3.45 million barrels a day, compared with a revised 3.42 million in the period to March 16. On this measure, shipments hit their highest level since October.
Two cargoes of Kazakhstan’s KEBCO crude were loaded during the week from Novorossiysk.
Export value
THE gross value of Moscow’s exports fell by about $190 million, or 13 percent, to $1.27 billion in the week to March 23, with the lower flows more than offsetting a gain in weekly average prices.
Export values of Russian Urals crude from the Baltic cargoes rose by about $0.70 a barrel, while those loading in the Black Sea were up by about $1.10 a barrel. The price of key Pacific grade ESPO rose by about $1.30. Delivered prices in India were up by about $0.70, all according to numbers from Argus Media.
On a four-week average basis, income was virtually unchanged in the period to March 23 at about $1.45 billion a week. Using this measure, an increase in flows almost exactly offset lower prices.
Flows by destination
OBSERVED shipments to Russia’s Asian customers, including those showing no final destination, were little changed at 3.17 million barrels a day in the four weeks to March 23, keeping them near their highest in 10 months.
The figures include about 600,000 barrels a day on ships from western ports showing their destination as Port Said or the Suez Canal and another 50,000 barrels a day on vessels yet to show a destination.
Russia has added a second shorthaul destination for crude from its western ports, with the first cargo arriving at the Syrian port of Baniyas last week; attempts to reach the manager of the ship by email were unsuccessful. Three more are on their way, according to signals from the ships soon after leaving the Arctic port of Murmansk and shipping information seen by Bloomberg.
Exports to Syria averaged 100,000 barrels a day in the four weeks to March 23.
Flows to Turkey in the same period averaged about 160,000 barrels a day, unchanged from the period to March 16. Turkey’s is diversifying its crude supplies after its largest refiner moved to restrict purchases of Russian barrels in the wake of sweeping US sanctions. With assistance from Sherry Su /Bloomberg
tition
Look behind the private credit curtain, BaFin tells insurers
By Nicholas Comfort & Libby Cherry
GERMANY’S financial watchdog is pushing insurers to step up scrutiny of private credit investments after several firms were stung by losses on loans to real estate companies.
BaFin, which oversees more than 500 insurers, is asking 30 to 40 firms with higher than average investments in alternative assets about how they vet them, Julia Wiens, who leads insurance supervision, said in an interview. The watchdog wants to make sure that large deals in particular are reviewed by the firms’ top executives.
“Especially where there’s a big investment, we expect the board as a whole to look behind the curtain,” Wiens said in her office in Bonn. “It may well be that some insurers fell short in this respect in the past.”
Germany was a flash point in the global commercial real estate meltdown over the last two years, with the insolvency of Rene Benko’s Signa conglomerate, the collapse of major project developers and the restructuring of landlord Adler Group triggering billions in losses. Insurers and pension funds were among lenders that got burned as they delved into riskier credit in a search for yield during a decade of ultra-low interest rates.
While German insurers’ average exposure to private credit and private equity is smaller than their holdings of stocks and bonds, individual firms have more than a third of their investments in the respective asset classes, Wiens said. That proportion rises to as much as 70
percent in some cases when adding other alternative assets such as real estate, infrastructure and mezzanine loans, she said.
Wiens said that there’s “no pattern” in terms of which insurers have the highest exposures, and that while firms owned by private equity tend to have a higher share of alternatives, they aren’t necessarily the outliers.
“Insurers invested significantly in alternative assets over the last years, which is understandable, given the long phase of low interest rates and depressed bond yields,” she said. “They’re generally free to take their own investment decisions, as long as they have decent risk management with adequate staffing and the necessary know-how.”
The pitfalls were on display at Signa and Adler. Insurers were among investors in funds which then lent the money to development projects owned by Adler. Such projects are often inherently risky, with creditors potentially being left stuck with a half-finished construction site if its owner runs out of money.
While Wiens didn’t name any insurers, court documents give some insight into the range of firms involved. Take for instance Aggregate Holdings, which was previously a major shareholder in Adler, and has since collapsed into bankruptcy in Luxembourg.
Insurers HUK-Coburg, Barmenia and KKH Kaufmaennische Krankenkasse were among investors in its landmark Fuerst project on Berlin’s Kurfuerstendamm. The rise in interest rates as well as other costs such as energy and labor contributed to a drop in the property value, forcing a takeover by lenders. Even the most senior creditors, which include most of the insurers, were expected to take a haircut under the court-approved restructuring plan.
Benko’s Signa was a particularly complex case, with insurers investing throughout the company’s capital structure. Debt extended to the conglomerate ranged from mortgages on individual trophy properties, often with good security as a result, to equity-like instruments issued by Signa’s major units.
Insurers including Continentale Versicherungsverbund, Gothaer Group and Signal Iduna Group invested in such so-called Genussscheine issued by Signa Prime Selection, according to documents seen by Bloomberg News. These subordinated instruments are likely to be wiped out as Signa’s major units are liquidated in a bankruptcy process in Austria.
Officials for Continentale and KKH didn’t respond to requests for comment. Spokespeople for Signal Iduna and HUK-Coburg declined to comment, as did a spokeswoman for the investment unit of BarmeniaGothaer, the two insurers that recently merged.
Risk managers at insurers should “be more precise” and look more closely at their systems for limiting
exposures, for example to individual issuers, Wiens said. Despite the losses, Wiens said that neither Signa nor Adler posed a threat to the stability of insurers or to their ability to fulfill contracts with their customers.
“Also, you have to look at the Signa and Adler investments in the context of when they were made,” said Wiens. “In some cases, the insurers had these on their books for several years during the search for yield. At that point, they were adequate, sensible investments with very good returns.” In late 2022, German insurers had about €4 billion ($4.3 billion) of exposure to Signa, some 0.2 percent of the industry’s investments. Following writedowns, that has fallen to about €2 billion.
Wiens said she still supports the regulatory framework under which insurers make their investments, which gives them “a lot of freedom” but also strengthens the role of governance. Still, insurers that run up large losses should also expect further scrutiny from BaFin, she said. That would entail a “close conversation” with the company, for example on the exact processes in the investment decision and the quality of its analysis and relevant limits, she said. That could be followed up by an inspection at the firm’s premises.
“We’re not going to look at every small investment and even very public insolvencies may have limited effect,” she said. “Our job is to safeguard the stability of the insurer and to make sure that it can meet its obligations to policyholders.” Bloomberg
Scammers are pushing auto loan fraud to record levels
By Scott Carpenter
SCAMMERS who share tricks with one another on social media are pushing auto loan fraud to record levels.
The dollar amount of car loans involving fraud grew last year by more than 16 percent to $9.2 billion, according to a report from risk management firm Point Predictive. In dollar terms that’s about 1.3 percent of all auto lending. The increase is much faster than the growth in total lending identified by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
The rising numbers of swindlers is likely contributing to the record share of borrowers that are falling behind on their auto loan payments, as fraudulent loans are more likely to end up in default.
One of the fastest growing types of fraud was so—called credit washing, where credit repair companies file false identity theft claims with credit bureaus or the Federal Trade Commission, to help borrowers clear black marks from their credit histories. Indicators of credit washing showed up in 1.7 percent of loan applications last year, a 162 percent increase over the prior year, accord-
ing to the report.
“Credit repair scammers have become a cottage industry,” said Frank McKenna, chief strategist at Point Predictive and coauthor of the report. “They’re sharing standardized tactics on social media, and as their message spreads it’s creating a lot more risk.”
Last year around one in five auto loans was packaged into an asset-backed security, based on data from S&P Global and the New York Federal Reserve. So far, the risk premiums on securities backed by subprime loans—the ones that are likeliest to get hit by elevated
defaults—don’t show signs that investors are panicking. But the premiums on the riskiest bonds are elevated from where they have been over the last 10 years.
Point Predictive offers services to identify and combat fraud, which means that it could win more business if it identifies more problems in the market. But other industry experts have also pointed to the growing frequency of fraud.
The largest share of fraud involves the misrepresentation of income or employment, which can come from both borrowers and dealers. These kinds of inaccuracies accounted for 42 percent of all fraud last year by dollar amount, Point Predictive said. To detect signs of likely income misrepresentation, the company uses methods including tracking the income levels that borrowers put on different applications and flagging significant variations.
VBy Nguyen Dieu Tu Uyen & Nguyen Kieu Giang
IETNAM’S finance ministry has put forward a proposal to cut preferential import tariffs on a range of products including LNG, cars, wood, and agricultural products, as the nation seeks to avoid the imminent threat of US tariffs.
Under the changes, tariffs on some types of cars are set to be cut to 32 percent from a range of 45 percent to 64 percent, the tax on LNG will be reduced to 2 percent from 5 percent and ethanol will see a cut to 5 percent from 10 percent. Agricultural goods including apples, frozen chicken, almonds and sweet cherries will also see a reduction, according to a statement on the ministry’s website, citing Nguyen Quoc Hung, director of the tax management and supervision unit.
On
The draft regulatory changes are “to navigate the complex and unpredictable developments in the global geopolitical and economic situation,” with tariff policies “significantly” affecting world economies including Vietnam, the statement said. Vietnam has been seeking to shore up trade ties with the US and convince the Trump administration it’s serious about addressing its trade surplus, which widened to $123.5 billion last year, giving it the thirdhighest trade gap with the US, behind
But social media also appears to be playing a role, McKenna said. Credit washing is sometimes combined with a tactic called synthetic identity fraud, in which scammers create multiple fragments of a fake identity—ID cards and employer names, for example—and string them together to present lenders with what appears to be a legitimate application for credit. Together, credit washing and synthetic identity fraud accounted for over a quarter of all fraud last year.
“What’s driving a majority of the fraud risk in the last 12 to 18 months has been the sharing of schemes like credit washing and stolen social security numbers on social media,” McKenna said.
For the report, Point Predictive looked at over 256 million applications it helped review for lenders and dealers, covering $4 trillion worth of loan requests, the firm said. Bloomberg
McKenna attributes the rise in fraud in part to macroeonomic factors that are challenging borrowers, such as inflation and higher interest rates.
Vietnam races to avoid US tariffs with proposed tax
Vietnam has been seeking to shore up trade ties with the US and convince the Trump administration it’s serious about addressing its trade surplus, which widened to $123.5 billion last year, giving it the third-highest trade gap with the US, behind China and Mexico.
China and Mexico. The Southeast Asian nation announced provisional deals with US companies worth $4.15 billion during a visit by the trade minister to the US earlier this month, and said it was considering removing trade barriers and cracking down on export fraud.
“Vietnam takes the Trump administration’s threats concerning tariffs
to
and image
in
With China’s strength in hardware, the cheaper and more accessible the AI models, the more the demand for devices powered by AI, said Balaji Srinivasan, tech investor and former general partner with An-
seriously, even if China seems to be the main target in Asia,” according to Petri Deryng, portfolio manager of PYN Elite Fund. “Still, the country does have a surprising number of tariffs on goods imported from the US,” he wrote in a March 24 note. The revised decree on the most favored nation, or MFN, tariff adjustments is expected to be issued within this month, according to the ministry statement.
“It is essential to adjust the MFN import tariff rates for certain goods to ensure fair treatment among Vietnam’s comprehensive strategic partners,” the statement said. Vietnam and the US have been gradually expanding cooperation since the two nations upgraded bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2023. Bloomberg
dreessen Horowitz. “China is trying to do to AI what they always do: study, copy, optimize, and then bankrupt everyone with low prices and enormous scale,” he said in a post on X. With assistance from Claire Che, Luz Ding and Amy Thomson/ Bloomberg
Thursday, March 27, 2025
BCDA, airport authority ink lease-to-own deal on Naia 3
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
STATE-RUN
firm Bases
Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Manila International Airport Authority (Miaa) have inked a lease-to-own deal, granting Miaa a three-year option period to decide whether to purchase the 61-hectare Naia Terminal 3 property or continue leasing it from BCDA.
In a statement on Wednesday, BCDA said it signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Miaa for the disposition of the 61-hectare Naia Terminal 3 property amounting to over P48 billion.
Under this new MOA, the staterun firm said it secured an increased annual lease payment of P489 million, from the prior P180 million.
BCDA also noted this deal grants MIAA a “three-year option period” to decide whether to purchase the
61-hectare property for P48.89 billion or continue leasing it from BCDA.
BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said this agreement is a “win-win” for the government, as it enables BCDA to contribute more to the state coffers while helping Miaa ensure “uninterrupted” air traffic flow through this gateway.
“This serves as a vital public service contribution that will ultimately lead to the development of Naia,” added the BCDA president.
‘Retrofit’ of Isabela bridge that collapsed days after opening baffles senators
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
THE collapse of the CabaganSta. Maria Bridge in Isabela, just days after its inauguration, was not totally unexpected, according to Senate probers who noted its problematic timeline since 2018.
There is “outrage” over the incident, not just because of the sudden collapse that caused injuries to six people and property damage, but also because it was apparent that, “since 2018, [there had been] problem after problem after problem,” Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano said Wednesday at a Blue Ribbon committee hearing.
Cayetano and Sen. Joel Villanueva were also baffled at why the total project included a “retrofitting” cost of P390 million, roughly a third of the total, even before the bridge was opened to the public. Villanueva asked DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan if he did not find it amiss, since “retrofitting” is normally done for structures many years after they have been built, in order to strengthen and make them continue to be functional.
Bonoan admitted he found the retrofitting “unusual.” The DPWH chief apologized for his absence at the first hearing, but assured senators the agency has constituted a special committee to investigate the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge collapse, and the panel was given until April 25 to finish its work.
“Every single span had a ‘critical defect,’ and although there were some spans with “minor defects,” all spans bore defects, Cayetano pointed out.
He then presented reports from the DPWH showing that engineers detected structural problems on the bridge spans as early as the start of the construction. Bridge spans refer to the distance between two supports, such as piers or abutments, that hold up the structure.
It is a crucial factor in bridge design and construction.
DPWH Undersecretary Eugenio Pipo Jr. admitted that during the
start of the construction of the bridge, they noted problems on spans 2 and 3 and later along the constructions, deficiencies were also noted on spans 1, 7 and 8.
But Cayetano said problems were detected in all spans of the bridge. He said DPWH field engineers reported the problem but these were ignored by the higher-ups.
Cayetano asked Bonoan if they have placed any personnel under preventive suspension, but Bonoan said they have not, simply because many of those involved in the supervision of the bridge were no longer connected with the department. Cayetano pointed out that a regional director connected with the construction of the bridge is even about to be promoted.
He later asked Bonoan to provide the Blue Ribbon, even way before April 25, with documents to help it continue its parallel inquiry, particularly: the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the retrofits; the complete correspondence and the ‘as builts.’
The newly-opened bridge in Isabela, a 990-meter-long bridge, with a total project cost of P1.225 billion, was completed on February 1, 2025. However, just weeks after its opening, the bridge collapsed on February 27, 2025, when an overloaded dump truck attempted to cross it.
“The mission of this bridge is to transform the countryside. It is a gateway to the Cordilleras and a very beautiful project. But now let us just say that it is a symbol of our failure as a government,” Cayetano said at an earlier hearing. He also asked DPWH Undersecretary Pipo Jr. to submit to the committee the names of errant contractors that were blacklisted and disciplined by the agency and the total number of contractors registered with the agency.
Pimentel resolution
IT was Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III who sought the Senate investigation into the repeated incidents of bridge collapses in the country to
Bingcang noted that the significant increase of payments provides a “substantial” boost to government revenue, enabling BCDA to contribute more to the national coffers.
“This aligns seamlessly with BCDA’s mandate to drive economic growth through strategic and impactful development initiatives,” he added.
Meanwhile, Miaa General Manager Eric Jose Castro Ines explained the “strategic” importance of the disposition for the future of the Philippine aviation and airline sectors.
“Through this lease-to-own agreement between the MIAA and the BCDA, we are taking a crucial step towards securing a long-term development of Naia Terminal 3,” Ines said.
By transitioning from a leaseholder to a rightful owner, Ines said Miaa gains “full control of the land, allowing us to plan, expand, and modernize the terminal without external limitations.”
BCDA said should Miaa exercise its option to purchase, a down payment of P10 billion, less the total cumulative annual payments already remitted, will be required.
“The outstanding balance will accrue interest at an annual rate of 5 percent, reflecting a reasonable return on investment for the government,” said BCDA.
The state-run firm said it has likewise “structured” a 15-year payment plan, comprising equal semi-annual installments, which approximate P3.74 billion annually.
This potential acquisition, BCDA noted, would allow Miaa to secure ownership of the land and infrastructure, enabling them to make substantial and lasting investments in the airport’s development, modernization, and expansion, “thereby enhancing its capacity to serve the ever-growing demands of both domestic and international air travel.”
In the first quarter of 2024, Naia Terminal 3 handled “significant” passenger traffic, processing 1.7 million international passengers across 7,700 flights and 1.5 million domestic passengers across 8,200 flights.
Apart from Bingcang and Ines, also present during the MOA signing: BCDA Chairperson Hilario B. Paredes, Miaa Assistant General
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio @blessogerio
EVEN as tariff wars escalate, the Philippine economy is expected to hold its ground and remain resilient, supported by its robust services sector, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said.
ADB’s Regional Cooperation and Integration director Jong Woo Kang told BusinessMirror in an email interview that the country’s reliance on digital services, particularly in business process outsourcing (BPO), makes it less susceptible to geopolitical shocks.
Yet, he added, “In case global trade tensions worsen to weigh on the global economy and its growth trend, however, it could also affect the Philippine economy due to their negative impact on remittance flows and tourism receipts.”
Recent data supports the resilience of the services sector, as the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines showed that the IT-BPM industry earned $38 billion last year, up 7 percent from $35.5 billion in 2023.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, meanwhile, showed that cash remittances reached
$34.49 billion in 2024, a 3-percent increase from $33.49 billion in 2023.
Moreover, the Department of Tourism reported P760.5 billion earnings for 2024, exceeding prepandemic levels by 126.75 percent.
Regarding the Asia-Pacific’s economic integration, Kang noted that it has remained steady despite external shocks like the pandemic and ongoing trade disputes.
“Higher tariffs from the US or other trading partners will rather likely to add more impetus for the regional economies to deepen regional integration further supported by trade and investment diversion effect,” he explained, citing the bank’s Asian Economic Integration Report 2025. He added that the robust growth prospects of regional economies could also add import demand from regional economies.
“Based on regional inputoutput analysis of our report, regional economies have deepened regional value chains significantly for the past two decades, which is expected to continue against uncertain external economic environment,” he added.
Comelec control for Maguindanao town eyed
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
OMMISSION on Elections
C(Comelec) Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia is recommending placing a municipality in Maguindanao del Norte under full Comelec control following the ambush that killed another election officer and her husband. If approved, Datu Odin Sinsuat will be the first area placed under Comelec control for the 2025 super elections.
Garcia said Wednesday that he has formally recommended imposing full Comelec control to the poll body’s en banc due to the escalating armed violence and threats in the area as election day nears.
“I am personally making this recommendation…because there have already been violent incidents in recent weeks and months. I believe it is necessary to place the area under Comelec control,” Garcia said, partly in Filipino.
His statement comes after the fatal attack on Election Officer Atty. Maceda Lidasan-Abo and her husband earlier that day.
Police said unidentified gunmen fired shots at Lidasan’s Abo’s vehicle at 8:20 am as they passed Cotabato-Sharrif Aguak Road in Barangay Makir. With her was her husband, Jojo Abo, who was driving the car.
The couple was rushed to Datu Odin Sinsuat District Hospital but
the husband was declared dead on arrival while the election officer was treated for severe gunshot wounds. She later died at the Cotabato Regional Medical Center where she was transferred for further treatment. While Lidasan-Abo had not reported any direct threats, Garcia confirmed she had requested for two security personnel. He has yet to determine why the request was not granted immediately.
If Datu Odin Sinsuat is placed under full Comelec control, Garcia said the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines will deploy more personnel, set up additional checkpoints, re -
voke all gun ban exemptions, and strictly prohibit firearm possession—whether licensed or not. Comelec assured the public they will make it “as normal as possible” once finalized.
While there is no official report yet on whether the attack was politically motivated, Garcia said the incident is presumed to be election-related, given that a Comelec official was targeted. He called on law enforcement to take swift action. “We can only move on if there’s justice. And there can only be justice if we apprehend somebody,” he said. Garcia also noted that the possibility of a staged attack to create
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Automotive, banking units
buoy GT Capital earnings
By VG Cabuag @villygc
GT Capital Holdings Inc., the holding firm of the Ty family, on Wednesday said its consolidated net income last year fell by 1 percent to P28.8 billion from P29.3 billion recorded in 2023.
Excluding non-recurring gains from lot sales and incentives under the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program, GTCAP said its core net income increased by 11 percent from the previous year. Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. and Toyota Motor Philippines Inc. both had a record net income at P48.1 billion and P15.9 billion, respectively. Its associate, conglomerate Metro Pacific Investments Corp., also had a record-high net income of P28 billion in 2024.
“GT Capital’s core net income grew by 11 percent in 2024, building on the record levels achieved the previous year. This continuous improvement reflects the group’s strong fundamentals across diversified sectors,” GT Capital President Carmelo Maria Luza Bautista said. “We remain optimistic that our core businesses will sustain this growth momentum moving forward. This year, GT Capital is committed to pushing boundaries further and reaching new milestones.” Metrobank’s net income rose by
14 percent year-on-year to a record P48.1 billion in 2024, supported by robust asset expansion and improving asset quality. This translated to a 13 percent return on equity, higher than the 12.5 percent recorded in the same period last year.
“The hard work that all Metrobankers put in growing our corporate, middle market, retail and wealth segments as well as our investments in technology and human resources and risk management initiatives continue to bear fruit,” Metrobank President Fabian S. Dee said.
Toyota Philippines’ net income grew 15 percent last year to P15.9
billion, driven by a 9-percent increase in the automotive company’s retail sales volume, at a record level of 218,019 units sold by year-end.
This figure comprises 46 percent of the auto industry’s 473,842 total sales as of end-2024, further solidifying the company’s position as the country’s leading car brand. Its market share was strengthened by strong commercial vehicle sales led by the Hilux, Raize, Innova, Avanza and Hiace models. Lexus, meanwhile, continued to dominate the luxury segment with a market share of 53.5 percent for full-year 2024.
FDC profit surges 36% in 2024
FILINVEST Development Corp.,
the holding firm of the Gotianun Group, on Wednesday said it registered an attributable net income growth of 36 percent to P12.1 billion last year from P8.9 billion recorded in 2023.
The company said the increase in profit was driven by a 22-percent rise in total revenues and other income to P113.4 billion in 2024 from P92.8 billion in 2023, following a double-digit improvement across all business segments.
The banking segment rose 23 percent; power, 40 percent; real estate, 11 percent; hospitality, 26 percent and sugar, 15 percent.
Total revenues and other income in 2024 is the highest level reported by FDC, the company said.
“(The year) 2024 was by far Filinvest’s strongest year. As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, this record performance anchors our growth plans and gives us confidence in our continued growth in the years ahead.
It is a testament to our ability to adapt to changes over the decades and take advantage of opportunities when they arise,” FDC President and CEO Rhoda A. Huang said.
Banking and financial services deliv -
ered a net income contribution to the group of P5.8 billion, equivalent to 39 percent of FDC’s bottom line.
Meanwhile, the power subsidiary contributed P4.3 billion in net income or 29 percent of total, while the property business--composed of the real estate and hospitality segments--delivered a combined P4.1 billion or 27 percent of total.
The balance of 5 percent came from other businesses.
Listed banking subsidiary EastWest Bank, on a standalone basis, delivered its highest net income on record of P7.6 billion in 2024, 25 percent higher than the previous year’s level on sustained consumer loan growth and strong deposit generation. The high-yielding consumer lending portfolio grew by 16 percent and accounted for 82 percent of its total loan base.
Filinvest Land Inc. and Filinvest Alabang Inc. contributed a combined P3.8 billion in net income to the group in 2024, 3.2 percent higher than the P3.7 billion
in the previous year. Revenues from the residential segment saw a 9 percent increase to P17.6 billion driven by the higher percentage of project completion of mid-rise condominiums and housing projects, and a growing number of accounts being recognized as revenues.
Mall and rental revenues improved by 11 percent to P8.5 billion from increased occupancy rates and improved net effec
tive rents following rationalization of discounts and concessions.
The power subsidiary, FDC Utilities Inc. reported a net income contribution of P4.3 billion in 2024 which is equiva
lent to a 26-percent growth from 2023.
The increase in net income was on the back of revenues which rose by 40 percent to P24.5 billion, driven by higher volume and average selling prices.
All units of its 3x135MW FDC Misamis plant were fully contracted within the year, helped by the energization of the Mindanao-Visayas interconnection project in the second half of 2023.
The company is celebrating its 70th year since its founders Andrew and Mercedes Gotianun started the business in 1955. From a small financing business, it has since expanded into diverse industries. VG Cabuag
SecureLink to invest in software development lab
SECURE Link Networks Inc., the newly launched joint venture between PT&T Corp. and Australia’s Netlinkz Ltd., is set to make a “multimillion-dollar investment” to build a software development lab in Manila. James Tsiolis, chairman of SecureLink and CEO of Netlinkz, said the lab will focus on localizing and scaling nextgeneration cybersecurity technology from Australia.
“So, we’ve actually invested money as has PT&T. We intend to localize the technology. So, we will be deploying a lab in Manila to help us develop the VSN [Virtual Secure Network] further and to localize the VSN. So it’s a very significant joint venture,” he said in an interview on Tuesday night.
The lab, which will be launched “very soon,” is part of SecureLink’s broader push to develop and customize the Virtual Secure Network Plus (VSN+)—a cybersecurity and connectivity solution
developed by Netlinkz in Australia—for the Philippine market and beyond.
VSN+ integrates military-grade encryption, zero-trust architecture, and end-to-end data protection, providing enhanced security for enterprises navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.
“We are actually looking at bringing the solution from a development standpoint to the Philippines, so that will open up a lot of opportunities not just in resources that we need in the Philippines but actually developing something in the Philippines further,” SecureLink co-founder and PT&T President and CEO James Velasquez said.
Tsiolis confirmed that the company is already mobilizing efforts to set up the lab. He noted that the group is now exploring fundraising options to support the local expansion, including tapping the equity market.
The lab will be built initially in PT&T’s
office in Makati.
SecureLink was established in November 2024, aiming to bridge the digital divide by delivering secure, high-speed connectivity through fiber, 5G, and satellite broadband, while positioning the Philippines as a regional hub for cybersecurity innovation.
Last November 2023, PT&T announced that it increased its capital stock to P12.6 billion from P3.8 billion. According to Velasquez, the capital stock hike is a “strategic move aimed at charting a path of growth.”
He said the Securities and Exchange Commission approved the move, which underscores a “critical role of strong and strategic management.”
The enhanced capital stock structure comprises 1.5 billion common shares, each with a par value of P1.00, and 230 million serial cumulative convertible redeemable preferred shares at P10.00 per share. Lorenz S. Marasigan
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
ALL four northbound lanes of the Marilao Interchange Bridge along the North Luzon Expressway (Nlex) were reopened to vehicular traffic at 1 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26—one week ahead of schedule.
Nlex Corp. said the reopening was made possible through roundthe-clock repair operations and the expedited delivery of fabricated steel components.
Although the lanes are now passable, the toll road operator noted that supporting steel poles remain in place to allow the concrete on the bridge to fully cure.
Traffic flow in the area is expected to “normalize in the next few days.”
The reopening marks the completion of emergency repairs that began on March 19 after a truck with excessive vertical clearance struck the bridge structure, damaging it severely and prompting the closure of two of the four northbound lanes.
“We thank the motoring public for their utmost understanding and patience while repairs were ongoing,” Nlex said in a statement. “Rest assured that Nlex continues to intensify safety and traf -
fic measures in key areas of the expressway to ensure the safety and convenience of our valued customers.”
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) lauded the speedy response of Nlex, emphasizing how the swift reopening will restore near-normal travel conditions for thousands of motorists.
“This shows the commitment and dedication of both the DOTr and its partners like Nlex Corp. to respond quickly to problems such as this, to try and provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all Filipinos,” the DOTr said.
To ease the impact of the disruption, Nlex had earlier suspended toll collection from northbound motorists entering through five toll plazas—Balintawak, Karuhatan, Mindanao Avenue, Paso de Blas, and Lawang Bato. The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has asked Nlex Corp. to explain why it should not be penalized for allowing the over-height truck to access the expressway. Nlex has since filed charges of reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property against the truck driver and operator. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has also issued a show cause order to the involved parties.
Fortune Life honors CashKO as ’24 ‘Top Insurance Broker’
Banking&Finance LandBank includes insurance coverage in savings account
TTHE Fortune Life Insurance Co. Inc. recognized CashKO Insurance Brokerage Inc. as its “Top Insurance Broker” for the year 2024 in the awarding ceremony held on March 12, 2025, at The Stiles Enterprise Plaza, Makati City. For three consecutive years, CashKO has upheld its position as the Top Insurance Broker of Fortune Life, a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence in financial technology solutions and exceptional service.
Fortune Life Senior Vice-President (SVP)-Group Sales Virgilio S. Aquino formally presented the “Certificate of Recognition” to SVP and Insurance Director Gerardo A. Tongco, honoring CashKO’s outstanding achievement as a top-performing insurance broker. The event was also
PEOPLE bank for various reasons; but primarily to protect their hard-earned money, earn interest from investments, benefit from financial management convenience, have access to other bank products and services, and be protected by deposit insurance. With the recent announcement of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) that it has doubled the maximum deposit insurance coverage (MDIC) to P1 Million per depositor per bank beginning March 15, more deposits will now be protected and, hopefully, more people will be encouraged to save in banks.
The MDIC adjustment may be long overdue, with the last increase taking effect in 2009 from P250,000 to P500,000. Under the 2022 amendments to its Charter, the PDIC is now authorized to review the MDIC every 3 years with the next one due in 2028, to consider if another adjustment is warranted by inflation or other economic conditions, including shifts in the financial landscape. With this, the depositing public is assured that the responsiveness of the MDIC will be periodically assessed.
PDIC said the new MDIC will now provide insurance to 98.6 percent of total deposit accounts in the Philippine banking system, which means, added financial stability for the country and greater peace of mind for bank depositors. All member banks of PDIC are enjoined to inform their depositors and prominently display the Notice to Depositor on the new MDIC statement in various customer touchpoints. The Bank Market -
BITCOIN’S recent relief rally, which took the original cryptocurrency to a two-week high on Monday, is at risk of being short-lived as broader market uncertainty continues to keep investors on the sidelines. A lack of bullish momentum, low volumes and ongoing macro tensions are combining to create the conditions for what some traders say is a potential “bull trap” in a directionless market. Market experts point to macroeconomic
attended by Fortune Life Assistant Vice President-Group Sales Carlos Frederic S. Lago, CashKO Senior Insurance Channel Manager Richard Posadas and Relationship Supervisor Robert Paderes. By consistently setting high standards in professionalism and dedication to customer-centric solutions, CashKO solidified its reputation as a trusted partner of Fortune Life in insurance brokerage. This recognition not only celebrates CashKO’s outstanding performance but also reinforces Fortune Life’s dedication to strengthening partnerships that create meaningful financial security for individuals and businesses alike.
Fortune Life is part of the ALC Group of Companies founded by the late Amb. Antonio L. Cabangon Chua.
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
Land Bank of the Philippines announced it has added free insurance coverage to depositors in its high-interest account.
In a statement last Wednesday, the state-run lender said it launched the “OptiSaver Plus” product to allow Filipinos to grow their funds while being insured.
The product is an upgraded version of its high-interest OptiSaver account, offering tiered interest rates of up to 4 percent per annum. Account holders will receive life
THE Philippines is set to enhance its tourism competitiveness with the implementation of a Value-Added Tax (VAT) refund program for non-resident tourists, a key recommendation from the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).
The implementing rules and
ing Association of the Philippines (BMAP) will also take a proactive role in the implementation of these efforts. The BMAP is optimistic on all positive outcomes of these developments.
We definitely think that the higher insurance coverage will improve the public’s confidence in the banking system and encourage more Filipinos to open a bank account. The added safety net is expected to contribute to increased financial inclusion of unbanked adult Filipinos, which is at 65 percent in 2022 according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Consultative meeting
THE PDIC also met with the BMAP and the Ad Standards Council last week to review and comment on proposed changes to the Regulatory Issuance (RI) on Advertisements and Proper Use of the PDIC Seal, Insurance Statement and Signages. The review is primarily focused on how PDIC can be more responsive to the changing advertising landscape for banks and the recent MDIC adjustment. The revised RI
risks, including potential tariff escalations, inflation concerns, and geopolitical instability, which continue to cast a shadow over Bitcoin’s price action.
“It’s important for investors to be cautious in this environment: The market remains fragile and can be easily manipulated,” said Kirill Kretov, trading automation expert at CoinPanel. “Retail activity is low, volume is thin, and even the so-called ‘smart money’ is staying on the sidelines. The players
refines advertising requirements for banks, aligning them with best practices to enhance transparency and depositor awareness. The RI is expected to be finalized and circulated within the year.
12th Araw Values Awards
I ATTENDED last week the awarding ceremony of the 12th “Araw Values Awards” at the Aliw Theater in Pasay City where I had the privilege to be part of the distinguished panel of judges. The “Araw Values Awards” is a biennial advocacy program of the Advertising Foundation of the Philippines in partnership with the Ad Standards Council that recognizes and celebrates the most impactful ad campaigns promoting Filipino values. Congratulations to this year’s most deserving winners!
Mai Gacilo Sangalang is the immediate past president of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines and currently its director for industry relations, banking code and financial inclusion. Sangalang is the head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing of the Standard Chartered Bank Philippines. The writer’s views do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror and the BMAP.
with the real ability to move the market are not doing so—and for good reason.”
Throughout March, Bitcoin has fluctuated between about $76,000 and $95,000. Yet without a clear catalyst to push the price beyond these levels, the market has struggled to gain sustained bullish traction.
One indicator of cautious sentiment is the Bitcoin funding rate, which reflects the difference in prices between the spot and futures markets. Bloomberg News
insurance coverage, which scales with account balance tiers, rewarding higher savings with greater financial protection, LandBank said.
Meanwhile, the personal accident insurance provides additional coverage against accidents resulting in injury or loss, while ensuring a safety net for depositors and their families.
regulations (IRR) for Republic Act 12079, or the “VAT Refund for Non-Resident Tourists” law, were formally signed by Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, along with Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio and Internal Revenue Deputy Commissioner Marissa O. Cabreros. The signing was witnessed by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick D. Go.
“This game-changer for Philippine tourism is a direct response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for policies that enhance the visitor experience and drive economic growth,” PSAC Lead Convenor and Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin M. Aboitiz said. “We commend the government for swiftly acting on PSAC’s recommendations, ensuring that the Philippines remains a competitive global tourist destination.”
THIS photo courtesy of Fortune Life shows (from left): CashKO Senior Insurance Channel Manager
PHL needs a brave tobacco czar, says group
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
SAN Fabian,
Pangasinan—Tobacco
farmers are pushing for the appointment of a tobacco czar to combat the proliferation of illicit cigarettes.
In an interview with report -
ers on Wednesday, Philippine Tobacco Growers’ Association
President Saturnino Distor said the government must designate
a tobacco czar that will lead efforts to fight illicit tobacco trade.
“Instead of our buyers purchasing more from us, smuggled products are taking a share of
CPM adopts standards on fresh mango fruit trade
THE 19th session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM-19) recently adopted crucial International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs) for fresh mango fruits and wood trade.
The commission said these standards aim to strengthen plant health and promote safe trade.
CPM agreed to adopt the annex to ISPM 46 governing the international movement of fresh mangoes. This annex establishes standardized phytosanitary measures to ensure the safe international trade of mangoes while preventing the introduction and spread of pests.
“The adoption of this annex represents a milestone for global mango trade. It enables harmonized, sciencebased measures that both protect plant health and facilitate smooth international trade,” said Joanne Wilson, Standards Committee (SC) member and steward of the mango standard and the Technical Panel on Commodity Standards (TPCS).
The commission also agreed to include an annex to ISPM 39 for managing pest risks associated with the movement of wood.
This annex introduces a comprehensive approach to mitigating pest risks associated with the international movement of wood, promoting integrated measures as an alternative to single phytosanitary measures to facilitate safe trade.
“This new annex strengthens the global approach to wood movement by integrating multiple measures, providing a more sustainable and effective strategy for pest risk management,” said Steve Côté, SC member and steward
of the annex.
During the opening of CPM-19 last March 17, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director-General Qu Dongyu urged “bold and urgent action” from contracting parties to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). The Philippines is one of the contracting parties to IPPC.
“Healthy plants are the foundation of productive farms and strong rural livelihoods. Yet, pests and the spread of invasive species destroy up to 40 percent of global crops, costing the global economy over $220 billion each year. We must make plant health a priority,” Qu said.
This year, the IPPC will review the implementation of the IPPC Strategic Framework 2020-2030, having reached its halfway point of implementation.
The framework sets eight development agenda items or priority work areas that guide the IPPC, governing and subsidiary bodies, expert working groups, partners and donors.
The IPPC is an intergovernmental treaty established in 1951 to protect the world’s plants, agricultural products and natural resources from plant pests. It is ratified by 185 contracting parties that collaborate to develop, adopt and promote the application of ISPMs as a main tool to safeguard global food security, facilitate safe trade and protect the environment.
The IPPC is the only international convention and reference organization dedicated to developing plant health standards. It is recognized as such under the World Trade Organization Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.
the market. Farmers are affected by this.”
The illicit trade has resulted in P54.4 billion in excise tax losses on cigarettes in 2024 alone, with the average foregone revenues ranging from P60 billion to P100 billion every year.
Findings from global research firm Kantar showed illicit cigarettes accounted for 16.4 percent of the market in 2024, due to stark differences in prices.
While a pack of cigarettes, inclusive of taxes, costs P170 on average, a smuggled one costs only
Despite this, Distor said all of the tobacco grown by local farmers are being purchased as their production remains sufficient.
However, he said they remain vigilant as they continue to monitor the smuggling situation due to fears that the entire tobacco supply chain will be flooded with smuggled goods.
That is why, Distor said, the tobacco czar must be brave and must defend tobacco farmers’
interests. “He must also have the ability to push for laws that will benefit our farmers.”
Meanwhile, Philippine Tobacco Institute President Jericho Nograles warned that illicit tobacco and vape products have proliferated “at a scale beyond what current law enforcement agencies can effectively control.”
Also, despite tax measures intended to lessen cigarette consumption, Nograles said smoking incidence is rising due to the uncontrolled expansion of illicit trade.
“Revisiting the annual tax in -
creases and stabilizing the legitimate market will remove financial incentives for smugglers and criminal syndicates to flood the market with untaxed cigarettes.”
The House of Representatives passed House Bill (HB) 11360 on third and final reading and endorsed it for Senate approval. Under the measure, excise tax rates on tobacco and vapor products will increase by 2 percent every even-numbered year starting January 1, 2026, and by 4 percent every odd-numbered year from January 1, 2027, until December 31, 2035.
Govt aims to expand duck production via new program
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture (DA) introduced a feed distribution program to support duck raisers in Pampanga, considered a central hub in the country’s duck industry.
Under this initiative, registered duck raisers in the Registry System for Basic Sector in Agriculture (RSBSA) can receive between nine and 17 bags of feeds weighing 50 kilos each. The financial support ranges from P15,000 to P28,000 per recipient, it added.
However, the DA said duck raisers should own a minimum of 100 ducks to qualify, with the program capping assistance at 2,000 ducks, regardless of the number registered in the RSBSA.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the initiative will be fine-tuned to make it a multi-year program and expand its coverage to other parts of the country.
“Though small, this feed distribution initiative aims to provide vital support to our Kabalen in the duck industry, who are working tirelessly to help the government achieve its vision of a food-secure Philippines and an agricultural sector where farmers can earn better and improve their lives,” he said in a statement.
The DA noted that about 1,000 duck raisers from the fourth dis -
trict of Pampanga will benefit from this initiative, designed to help stabilize the industry and boost productivity. These include raisers from Candaba, San Luis, San Simon, and Apalit. It added that the program is part of the agency’s broader efforts to enhance livestock farming, particularly poultry such as ducks, providing more income-generating opportunities for farmers while
SRA, UTokyo seal pact on sugar research
THE Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) and the University of Tokyo (UTokyo) forged an agreement which seeks to increase domestic sugarcane output and strengthen the industry.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said the memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will run for three years would cover major aspects aimed at helping the domestic sugarcane industry, including the development of higheryielding varieties and more efficient milling practices.
“We will also tackle the side of bioethanol (such as) how to efficiently extract more biofuels from our sugarcane. This will come both in sugarcane juice and molasses,” Azcona told reporters
Cocoa market turmoil raises profile
ACROSS West Africa’s cocoa heartland, Eddie Arthur has spent a quarter of a century traveling from farm to farm each day to stare at trees and count how many pods they have.
At every stop, he records the tally from a handful of trees, monitors flowers that can eventually grow into rugby ball-sized pods and tracks how dry or wet the ground is. Regardless of the weather or road conditions, the process is repeated at about 20 farms a day to gather data that helps predict the overall harvest size.
The job has hardly changed for decades. But the service that pod counters like Arthur at Forestero provide has become more important than ever as traders, hedge funds and chocolatiers try to gauge production in a market that has been rattled by an unprecedented shortage.
“With every visit to the farm you
have a better idea of how the season is progressing,” Arthur said in Ivory Coast’s Gagnoa, where he was counting pods ahead of this year’s mid-crop. “I’ve done it for so many years that it has become part of my hobbies. But I treat every trip with the same level of seriousness and attention.”
Futures soared to a record last year after bad weather hurt crops in top growers Ivory Coast and Ghana. The rally’s severity surprised even seasoned market players, caused chaos across cocoa’s global supply chain and gave a reminder of how vulnerable supply is to extreme weather being exacerbated by climate change.
That’s prompting people to pay more attention to pod-count data to get an idea of production in an industry where supply data is relatively scarce.
“Pod counting has been important for more than 50 years but some had chosen
in a press briefing on Tuesday. He said the MOU includes initiatives related to value-adding as other products may be produced from sugarcane.
In particular, the SRA chief said the Japanese counterpart could produce carbide, biochar, and sustainable aviation fuel from sugarcane production.
“So, those (are the things) they will share with us.”
Azcona said the local sugarcane industry could learn from its Japanese counterpart, which produces 70 metric tons (MT) per hectare. The size of Japan’s sugarcane plantation is smaller at 22,000 hectares.
The Philippines’ sugarcane industry has a total of 388,000 hectares, with an average production of 50 MT per hectare.
of old-school pod counters
to ignore the data,” said Steve Wateridge, head of research at Tropical Research Services, which also counts pods. “People became complacent with low prices. Now, there is more interest after people were caught out by what happened in the last 18 months.”
It’s much harder to get an idea of the supply picture in the notoriously opaque cocoa industry than for other major crops such as wheat or sugar. That’s due to a smaller amount of dominant players and because the governments in Ivory Coast and Ghana—which closely regulate the industry—rarely publish supply figures.
That’s why pod counters like Arthur can offer valuable insight.
He visits farms with a small team across Ivory Coast and Ghana throughout the year. By eye, they count pods by size on selected trees that they come back to again and
again to estimate how the whole plantation is faring. They also keep an eye on issues such as pest infestations.
The information is recorded on a tablet and accessed by Forestero’s office in Lausanne, Switzerland for analysis that’s then given to clients including chocolate firms, processors, traders, shippers and hedge funds.
The count plays an important role in estimating global supplies and spotting crop-disease outbreaks, and becomes a more reliable indicator in the few months before the harvest. The visits also show how trees cope with seasonal extremes, such as the dusty Harmattan winds that start around November, and wetter periods.
“The roads are bad during the rainy season, but it’s also my favorite period,” Arthur said earlier this month. “The trees come back to life and I enjoy being in the
Meanwhile, the SRA chief noted that the industry also has ongoing research efforts with the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS).
He said the JIRCAS had already brought into the country a variety that the research institute bred for the Philippines, which they believe “will work in our situation.”
The variety is already growing in the agency’s La Granja Agricultural Research and Extension Center in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental.
He noted that the variety’s biggest advantage is its resistance to climate change, noting that the areas where the Japanese would plant their sugarcane were “very windy” and “susceptible to typhoon.”
farms.”
Forestero and Tropical Research Services are among a handful of independent pod-counting firms. Many big traders and processors have their own in-house counters, though closely guard the data.
Chocolate companies and funds are among those showing fresh interest in pod-count data, according to Forestero founder Fabrice Laurent.
It’s another sign of how funds—which can earn big money by capitalizing on rapid price shifts—are trying to get an edge in commodities and weather markets. Hedgefund manager Pierre Andurand highlighted pod counts when talking about the cocoa market in December.
Gaining an advantage over other traders can be especially lucrative in a market like cocoa that has seen huge price swings. New York futures that almost trebled last year are now down about 38 percent from December’s peak, though remain historically expensive.
also enhancing food security.
Recognizing the challenges faced by duck raisers, particularly the rising costs of feed ingredients, the DA has also introduced several support measures for the industry. These include free avian influenza testing, feed assistance, and post-harvest facilities to ensure the sector’s continued growth.
The DA chief said the expected commercial availability of the bird flu vaccine in the country later this year should help address a health risk to Pampanga’s poultry population, including ducks and quail.
The agency noted that Central Luzon, which is home to more than half of the country’s duck population, has consistently been a leader in duck meat and egg production, contributing 27 percent of the national supply of duck meat and 56 percent of duck eggs.
In 2024, the region recorded a total duck inventory of 4.9 million heads, with Pampanga alone accounting for nearly 60 percent of the total, it added.
“They bred a variety that had a very strong root system and was resilient to dry and wet climate. That’s one of the things we want to learn.”
Last month, the SRA said it is hopeful that the country will be able to produce 1.78 million metric tons (MMT) of raw sugar in the current crop year despite the decline in sugar content.
Data from the SRA showed that as of February 16, sugarcane production reached 13.07 MMT, 18.16 percent lower than the 15.98 MMT recorded in the previous year. Despite this, the decline in sugarcane milled was smaller compared to the 27.75-percent drop last January 12. However, yield for sugarcane shrank by 11 percent to an average of 1.58 LKGTC (50-kilo bag per ton of cane) from 1.78 LKGTC a year earlier, based on SRA data. Ada Pelonia
Although a tallying device has given way to tablets that upload data to the cloud, technology can’t easily replace the on-the-ground part of pod counting. Using drones to count would still need someone to guide them and some companies have tried harnessing satellite imagery, but it’s hard to separate plantations from other forested areas.
“Pod counting is the same as 20 years ago where you measured yield roughly through the same methodology,” Laurent said. “What has changed is the way you look at it, the type of analysis you can make, the type of calculation model you are using and the type of learning machine system.” One change over the years is monitoring crop disease. Tropical Research Services was among the first to spot the spread of swollen-shoot virus in Ivory Coast almost two decades ago, and now pod counters are using in-field detection of the disease to map out the extent of the problem. Bloomberg News
PHOTO FROM WWW.FAO.ORG
Amazon allure grows with cheaper shares than Apple
AMAZON.COM Inc. shares are starting to look like a bargain, a word that has rarely been used to describe the stock.
The recent drop in the company’s share price — coupled with expectations for durable long-term earnings growth — have brought its valuation to levels rarely seen since the company went public in 1997. This could limit additional downside in the event of further weakness in the broader market.
“You’d be hard pressed to look at Amazon’s multiple here and not see it as appealing relative to both tech and retail, and given its multiple secular tailwinds, this looks like an incredible opportunity,” said Clayton Allison, portfolio manager at Prime Capital Financial. While tech valuations have fallen broadly in the recent market selloff, the ratio of Amazon’s price to its earnings stands out relative to its history. The stock is trading at around 27 times its estimated future earnings, which is roughly half the 10-year average, and be -
low that of major retail rivals that used to have lower multiples like Walmart Inc. and Costco Wholesale Corp. It also trades at a discount to Apple Inc., which was several times cheaper than Amazon just a few years ago.
The valuation has fallen in recent years because Amazon has focused on efficiency and cost cutting, which has lifted its profitability. In the short term, though, the hit has largely been a result of the broader market selloff.
Amazon shares are 6 percent lower this year, and are coming off seven straight weekly declines, the longest such streak since May 2022. While Amazon is lagging the Nasdaq 100 Index since the beginning of the year, it has performed modestly better than the Bloomberg Magnificent 7 Index. Wall Street remains almost uniformly positive on the fundamen -
tals of Amazon’s e-commerce and cloud-computing business, Amazon Web Services. More than 95 percent of the analysts tracked by Bloomberg recommend buying the shares. It also trades more than 30 percent below the average analyst price target.
Brian White, an analyst at Monness Crespi Hardt & Co., recently affirmed a buy rating and $265 price target on the stock, writing that Amazon’s profitability is below its long-term potential.
“The company’s long-term growth path is attractive across the e-commerce segment, AWS, digital media, advertising, Alexa, robotics, AI, and more,” he added.
The company recently unveiled an artificial intelligence-powered version of its Alexa voice-activated assistant product, which analysts see as supporting the company’s growth. Revenue at Amazon is expected to rise 9.6 percent this year and hit a 10.4-percent pace in 2026, driving net earnings from 15 percent in 2025 to 20 percent next year. There are, though, near-term clouds for Amazon, as tariffs and broader economic uncertainty weigh on the outlook for both consumer spending and the adoption
of AI services.
Amazon’s most recent results paint a mixed picture for AI. AWS revenue grew 19 percent, but didn’t accelerate as much as anticipated. The company said its cloud business was facing capacity constraints — echoing Microsoft Corp., which is also struggling to meet AI-related demand. Amazon said it would invest about $100 billion this year, mostly on AI-related expenditures like data centers and other infrastructure.
Investors have become increasingly focused on when the heavy spending on AI will pay off in a more concrete fashion. This issue, coupled with the broader questions about the economy, could limit the ability of big tech stocks to rebound, even with the more attractive multiples.
“There was over-enthusiasm surrounding big tech earlier this year, and while we are getting to levels where they look attractive again, good fundamentals or multiples don’t really matter when there’s so much uncertainty,” said Kristian Kerr, head of macro strategy for LPL Financial. “We need a lot more clarity for a sustainable move higher.” Bloomberg News
Greencore said to hike bid for Bakkavor
IRISH convenience food manufacturer Greencore Group Plc has increased its bid for London-listed rival Bakkavor Group Plc, people with knowledge of the matter said. Bakkavor has been considering the latest proposal, the people said, asking not to be identified because the information is private. It has already rejected at least two previous offers from Greencore. The most recent cash and stock bid it’s disclosed was valued at 189 pence per share including a planned dividend.
Shares of Bakkavor rose as much as 6.8 percent on Wednesday. They were up 3.9 percent as of 10:18 a.m. in London, giving the company a
market value of about £1 billion ($1.3 billion). Greencore gained as much as 1.9 percent.
Deliberations are ongoing and there’s no certainty they will lead to a deal. Representatives for Greencore and Bakkavor declined to comment. Bloomberg News first revealed earlier this month that Greencore had approached Bakkavor to express interest in a tie-up. Greencore later confirmed the move, saying it’s looking to build scale by combining complementary businesses and touting the potential synergies from a transaction.
Greencore said after the last rejection that it will continue to evaluate
all strategic opportunities, including a potential move for Bakkavor. The company is required to announce by 5 p.m. local time on April 11 whether it’s going to make a firm offer or walk away.
Dublin-headquartered Greencore was founded in 1991 following the privatization of Irish Sugar. The company supplies food including sandwiches, chilled prepared meals and cooking sauces to major supermarkets in the UK as well as travel retail outlets and coffee shops. It’s led by Chief Executive Officer Dalton Philips, who previously ran British grocer Morrisons until 2015.
Bakkavor provides prepared
meals, pizzas, bread and salads to groceries such as Tesco Plc, Mark & Spencer Group Plc and J Sainsbury Plc. The UK accounted for about 85% of the company’s total revenue last year, its website shows. Bakkavor also operates in the US and China.
Any deal would require winning over the Icelandic brothers who founded Bakkavor, Agust and Lydur Gudmundsson, who still own about 50 percent of the company. Agust retired from the chief executive role in October 2022. Lydur served as CEO from 1986 to 2006 and stayed on as non-executive chairman until 2017. Bloomberg News
Alibaba teams up with BMW Vistry shares
VISTRY Group Plc’s shares tumbled the most in three months after the UK housebuilder reported continuing weakness in home sales following a turbulent end to 2024. The company, which partners with housing associations to build affordable homes, said its average weekly sales rate fell to 0.59 per site in the year to date from 0.81 in 2024, according to a statement Wednesday. That’s down to a low volume of partner-funded transactions in the first quarter, the company said.
Vistry’s full-year results were “overshadowed by weak current trading activity and low visibility on FY25 results,” RBC Capital Markets analyst Anthony Codling said in a note.
Shares dropped as much as 11 percent in early London trading on Wednesday, the biggest intraday loss since December 24, before paring some of the declines. Housebuilders have been under pressure from higher mortgage costs, which have impacted demand. The UK will manage to build only half of the 300,000 homes it’s targeting this year, according to roughly a third of developers in a Knight Frank survey published last month. Bloomberg News
ALIBABA Group Holding Ltd. and BMW AG will team up to produce AI for cars in China, as the tech giant looks to monetize its emerging products and the German automaker seeks to catch up to local brands that are dominating the key market.
BMW will adopt AI cockpit technology from Alibaba-backed Banma for its upcoming models tailored for the Chinese market, the companies said Wednesday in a joint statement. Banma’s technology is the product of collaboration with Alibaba’s own Qwen model team.
Software has become a key differentiator between electric vehicles, particularly in China, where local manufacturers like BYD Co. have raced ahead of European carmakers. Volkswagen, MercedesBenz Group and BMW have had to seek out tech partnerships from Silicon Valley to China for the tech expertise needed for their next generation of cars to compete.
BMW, which relies on China as a major market, saw sales of its namesake brand and Mini fall 13.4 percent there last year and expects deliveries to remain muted this year.
To better compete, Alibaba will help BMW build a new in -
telligent personal assistant with enhanced voice recognition and trip planning features that will be rolled out next year in new models produced in China. The in-car AI agent can offer parking and nearby restaurant recommendations as well as real-time traffic light information.
Alibaba said its Qwen model has been used in cars produced by Chinese automakers Xpeng, Zeekr and Leapmotor.
Alibaba has been aggressively pivoting its focus to AI over the past few months, pledging to invest more than 380 billion yuan ($52 billion) on AI infrastructure such as data centers over the next three years. Chief Executive Officer Eddie Wu said in February that the pursuit of artificial general intelligence is now the company’s “primary objective.” The company also scored a coveted
Grab seeks $2-B loan for potential takeover of GoTo
SINGAPOREAN ride and delivery firm Grab Holdings Ltd. is in talks to raise a loan of as much as $2 billion to back its potential takeover of Indonesia-based rival GoTo Group, according to people familiar with the matter.
The so-called bridge loan could have a tenor of about 12 months, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private matters. Talks with banks are in early stages and details could be subject to change, the people added.
A GoTo spokesperson declined to comment, while Grab didn’t respond to emails and messages requesting comment.
Grab’s transaction comes amid a busy time for dealmaking as valuations become more attractive and rainmakers scour for opportunities in Asia. This translates into a strong M&A financing pipeline, potentially boosting the region’s loan market that is set to recover in 2025 from a three-year drop.
Blackstone Inc. is tapping Citigroup Inc. to raise at least $200 million-equivalent to back its purchase of South City Mall in India’s Kolkata, while Advent International is seeking an around $300 million-equivalent loan for its acquisition of contact lens maker Ginko International’s China operations. Bloomberg News
role providing AI technology to Apple Inc.’s iPhones in China, which are due to be rolled out in the coming months.
Europe’s dependency on the US and China for the computing power needed to support AI is putting its auto industry at risk, Georges Massing, a Mercedes-Benz Group AG executive working on the company’s automated-driving push, said this week.
“We have in Europe neither a cloud nor a hardware that can train these models,” Massing said.
After years of grappling with its own software venture, Volkswagen AG is partnering with Rivian Automotive Inc. and China’s Horizon Robotics Inc to develop the technology for its next line of EVs. Mercedes, meanwhile, is investing in Chinese AI startup Momenta to bolster its driverassistance systems. Bloomberg News
Is Putting
IPayMongo Turns 6; Introduces Full-Scale Financial Operating System
CELEBRATING six years of fintech innovation, PayMongo has unveiled its most powerful transformation yet, introducing an enhanced Financial OS alongside an upcoming, industry-first dynamic onboarding. This soon-to-be-released feature will allow businesses to get started faster and seamlessly access PayMongo’s full suite of financial tools.
At its sixth anniversary event at Uma Nota, Shangri-La BGC, PayMongo revealed its new brand identity and expanded financial platform, designed to streamline business payments, provide instant access to funding, and enable software platforms to embed financial tools seamlessly.
A key highlight of this evolution is PayMongo Capital, a financing solution that gives businesses quick and flexible funding, reinforcing the company’s commitment to financial inclusion and business scalability.
“We’re not just changing our look, we’re redefining how businesses access financial power,” said Luis Sia, Chairman and Co-Founder of PayMongo. “With our upcoming dynamic onboarding and new Financial OS, businesses will soon be able to start accepting digital payments faster than ever. PayMongo Capital further ensures they have the resources to scale seamlessly.”
Since its launch, PayMongo has evolved beyond a payment processor into a comprehensive Financial OS, providing businesses with seamless, secure, and scalable financial solutions. Under the leadership of CEO Jojo Malolos, the company has achieved 4.3 times increase in Total Payment Volume (TPV); three times revenue growth and 3.6 times increase in gross profits.
Alongside this growth, PayMongo has strengthened its security and compliance infrastructure, earning
SOC2 Type 2 certification and forming strategic partnerships with the AntiMoney Laundering Council (AMLC).
The company remains fully compliant with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) regulations, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most secure and trusted financial platforms.
“Congratulations on your sixth anniversary. Thank you for being part of our continuous journey to broaden financial inclusion,” said Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Mamerto E. Tangonan. “We encourage the adoption of digital payments to bring more Filipinos into the formal financial system. Rest assured, the BSP will work hand in hand with the industry to ensure a safe, secure, efficient, and inclusive digital payment ecosystem.”
Building on this momentum, Malolos emphasized the company’s long-term vision.
“We’re not just celebrating a milestone, this rebrand is a statement of our commitment to building a future-ready financial ecosystem,” said Malolos. “Beyond payments, we now provide businesses with the capital to expand and enable software platforms to embed seamless financial tools. Our infrastructure powers both direct business growth and industry-wide innovation while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance.”
With its expanded capabilities, PayMongo redefines how businesses operate in a digital-first economy. The soonto-launch dynamic onboarding will set a new benchmark for accessibility, allowing businesses to start accepting payments with unpecedented speed.
new
1. Instant settlement capabilities through the PayMongo Wallet, ensuring businesses get paid without delays
2. Embedded finance infrastructure, allowing B2B and SaaS platforms to integrate payments effortlessly
3. Comprehensive payment acceptance, supporting credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and direct online banking.
4. Advanced fraud prevention and compliance, strengthening business security and trust
5. PayMongo Capital provides businesses with seamless access to growth funding.
From small businesses to large enterprises, companies rely on PayMongo’s Financial OS to streamline their operations. Bebang’s Halo-Halo simplifies payment and cash flow, while Lazada uses PayMongo’s QRPh technology and BNPL partnerships to offer consumers more flexible payment options. Strategic collaborations with Mochi Solutions and Mosaic Solutions further showcase PayMongo’s embedded finance tools, improving financial transactions across multiple platforms.
“By providing both direct financial tools and enabling other platforms to build on our infrastructure, we’re creating multiple pathways for businesses to grow,” added Malolos.
“Whether they access capital through PayMongo or leverage our payment capabilities in their own platforms, businesses will soon have more powerful ways to scale.”
Maynilad offers desludging services this March
WMaynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad) is offering septic tank cleaning services to its residential and semi-business customers this March in select parts of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Parañaque, Quezon City, and Cavite Province at no extra cost.
Maynilad’s sanitation program is one of the company’s efforts to lessen pollution loading into Metro Manila’s river systems. “We ask our customers to avail of this service, as it will help to protect community health and the environment,” said Maynilad Chief Operating Officer Randolph T. Estrellado. Customers residing in Barangay 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 28, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 49, 60, 167, 171, 172, 174, 175, 176, 185, and 188 in Caloocan; Brgy. Talon I, Talon III, Talon V, and Zapote in Las Piñas; Brgy. San Antonio, San Dionisio, San Isidro, Sto. Niño, and Sucat in Parañaque; and Brgy. Apolonio Samson, Balingasa, Don Manuel, Doña Aurora, Doña Josefa, and NS Amoranto in Quezon City may avail of Maynilad’s desludging service. Moreover, some Maynilad customers in Cavite Province, particularly Brgy. Mambog I, Molino, Molino III, Molino IV, Molino VI, Molino VII, Queens Row Central, and Queens Row East in Bacoor City; Brgy. Balsahan, Binakayan, Magdalo, Marulas, Samala-Marquez,
Sta. Isabela, Panamitan, Poblacion, Pulvorista, and Tabon II in Kawit; Brgy. Anabu I-E, Anabu I-F, Anabu II-A, Anabu II-B, Anabu II-C, Bucandala II, Bucandala III, Bucandala V, Malagasang I-G, Malagasang II-D, Molino V, and Palico I in Imus City; and Brgy. Silangan I and Silangan II in Rosario may avail of the company’s septic tank cleaning services at no extra cost. Septic tank cleaning service normally costs around P4,700 per truck.
Maynilad customers interested in availing of the company’s septic tank cleaning service may call the Maynilad Hotline 1626 to determine the requirements and procedures. Additional information is also available in the company’s website, www.mayniladwater.com. ph, and social media accounts (X: @ maynilad, Facebook: /MayniladWater).
Maynilad is the largest private water concessionaire of Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) in the Philippines in terms of customer base. Its service area includes the cities of Manila (all but portions of San Andres and Sta. Ana), Quezon City (west of San Juan River, West Avenue, EDSA, Congressional, Mindanao Avenue, the northern part starting from the Districts of Holy Spirit and Batasan Hills), Makati (west of South Super Highway), Caloocan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Valenzuela, Navotas, and Malabon, all in Metro Manila; and the cities of Cavite, Bacoor, and Imus, and the towns of Kawit, Noveleta, and Rosario, all in the province of Cavite.
Up an Auto Repair Shop Right for You?
N response to the surging interest in the automotive repair industry, the Auto Tech Mobility Association (ATMAI), led by its President and Chairman, Mark Saberola, is hosting a comprehensive workshop titled “Is Putting Up an Auto Repair Shop Right for You?” on April 10, 2025, at the prestigious Asian Institute of ManagementDado Banatao Incubator (AIM-DBI), Makati City.
Co-presented by MarCar, a sales and distribution business established by Saberola, which carries wellknown brands such as ENI, Repsol, Whiz, among others, and AutoServed, this event aims to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the critical insights needed before venturing into the fast-growing auto repair industry.
“With the number of vehicles on Philippine roads increasing year after year, and a notable number of Filipino automotive technicians and mechanics returning from abroad, there is a ripe opportunity for growth in the auto repair sector,” Saberola said.
“Social media is awash with new repair shops opening every week. But the real question remains—is this business truly the right fit for you?”
Drawing from over two decades of experience in the automotive servicing industry—including a successful career with a major brand like Ford Motor Company, he gained hands-on experience in shop operations and franchise expansion when he co-founded an auto repair shop business —an enterprise that eventually spun off into a successful franchise prior his retirement. This workshop is designed to cut through the noise, highlight common pitfalls, and provide a
“Capital is available, the market is growing, and there’s no shortage of returning skilled workers. But before jumping into this competitive space, aspiring shop
Megaworld Lifestyle Malls Welcomes Hot Season with New, Exciting Destinations
9 am to 6 pm. Coming Soon - Randy’s Donuts at McKinley West A globally recognized icon, Randy’s Donuts is about to grace McKinley West with its legendary presence. This American classic, famous for its decadent, oversized donuts, offers indulgent flavors that are
anticipated offerings. For updates, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call (02) 8462-8888.
A Nostalgic Escape with a Modern Twist at Ezra Viniti
IN a world that’s constantly evolving, there’s something comforting about revisiting the past. The sights, sounds, and simple joys of childhood bring a warmth that modern conveniences can’t replace. At Ezra Viniti, we believe in capturing the magic of those cherished moments—when family gatherings revolved around shared stories, games, and laughter, not mobile phones and tablets. But we also understand the need for comfort and technology in today’s fastpaced world.
That’s why we’ve created a unique retreat where nostalgia meets modern and grounded luxury, allowing guests to relive the best of the past while enjoying the conveniences of the present.
Remember the golden days of the ‘80s and ‘90s? When weekends meant gathering around the living room, sharing stories, and playing board games instead of being lost in a digital world? When a lunch box filled with those classic snacks from the ‘80s and ‘90s—Chippy, Mr. Chips, Ri-Chie, and a Zest O Tetra pack we used to bring to school or enjoy after tutoring sessions? At Ezra Viniti, we’re bringing that cherished nostalgia back—but with a modern touch that allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Nestled in the cool highlands of Tagaytay, Ezra Viniti is more than just a resort—it’s a gateway that connects you to the warm, comforting spaces of your childhood while seamlessly blending in the conveniences of today.
Carlo Mecate, the creative mind behind Ezra Viniti’s interiors, shares, “We wanted to create a space that feels like home—a place where families and friends can reconnect without distractions.” His design embraces a midcentury aesthetic, with cozy sunken living areas that invite families to sit together, talk, and relive the simple joys of togetherness. The open layout fosters interaction, ensuring that no one is glued to their gadgets but rather fully present in the moment. To enhance that sense of nostalgia, every cabin comes with a mini bar stocked with all your childhood favorites—those classic snacks you’d rush to the sari-sari store for after school. Picture a millennial parent sharing the magic of their childhood—teaching their kids how to play Chinese garter, jump rope, or enjoying a friendly game of jackstones together. These simple yet unforgettable activities bridge
generations and remind us of the beauty of genuine playtime. Guests can also borrow for free an array of board games and card games that defined our childhood— Snakes and Ladders matches, chess duels, Sipa and Patintero for the more adventurous. Before mobile phones ruled our lives, these were the moments that brought us closer, and Ezra Viniti is here to remind us of their timeless appeal.
But while Ezra Viniti celebrates the past, it also embraces the future. The cabins are fully equipped with modern technology to keep up with today’s lifestyles— Alexa-powered voice commands, smart TVs with access to your Netflix, Prime, and Disney+, and seamless connectivity for when you do want to indulge in your favorite series or movie nights with the family. It’s the perfect balance of old and new—reminiscing about the past while enjoying the present. Beyond nostalgia and modern comforts, Ezra Viniti remains deeply committed to sustainability. Every aspect of the resort is designed to minimize its environmental footprint. From energy-efficient accommodations to thoughtfully sourced and upcycled materials, such as doors crafted from repurposed aluminum tetra packs, blending eco-consciousness with innovation, guests can enjoy their stay knowing that their experience supports a more ecoconscious future. Here, we believe in the importance of preserving the past while also protecting the planet for generations to come.
At Ezra Viniti, we prove that old and new don’t have to compete—they can coexist beautifully. Just like our fondest childhood memories, we can embrace the warmth of the past while stepping confidently into the future. Whether you’re reliving the joys of simpler times or making new ones with loved ones, Ezra Viniti is the perfect place to slow down, reconnect, and cherish what truly matters. And as we honor the past, we also take mindful steps toward sustainability—ensuring that the beauty we cherish today can be enjoyed by future generations as well. Book your stay today and take part in Ezra’s commitment to sustainable hospitality, a true GROUNDED LUXURY experience. Ezra Viniti Resort is located at Ezra Resort, Pag-Ibig
LUIS Sia, Chairman and Co-Founder introducing the new PayMongo to its guests.
EST Zone concessionaire
RANDY’S Donuts.
The
Financial OS also offers:
www.businessmirror.com.ph
SENIOR officials from the Australian Embassy and SM Supermalls supported
A LITTLE CORNER OF AUSTRALIA AT SM PODIUM BOOK NOOK
IT was an afternoon of sharing and learning, Aussie-style, at the Book Nook at SM Podium. Book Nook pioneer arch. Shereen Sy and SM Supermalls president Steven Tan recently hosted Australian Ambassador HK Yu for the unveiling of the first Australia Corner in Manila. Australia Corner houses a collection of children’s books, novels, and educational books about Australia, most of which are not available in book shops in the Philippines.
During the launch, Ambassador Yu, accompanied by her senior diplomats, handed over a specially curated selection of books from the Australian Embassy and hundreds of books gifted by Australia alumni and by the Melbourne-based nonprofit Give-A-Textbook Foundation.
“I hope this gift to the Book Nook will encourage reading across all ages, and encourage people to learn more about Australia, our First Nation heritage, and our modern diverse society,” said Ambassador Yu.
The idea for Book Nook started when arch. Shereen Sy, while studying in Australia, saw a small unattended shelf in Melbourne where people could take and share books for free. She dreamt of bringing a similar concept to the Philippines to make reading and literacy more accessible and enjoyable, and at the same time bring the community closer together through books.
Parentlife
Ambassador Yu said, “I am very proud of our Australia alumni Shereen and Chico for bringing their positive experience from Australia and creating free spaces for reading and learning here in the Philippines.”
The event also turned into a reunion of sorts for Australiaeducated Filipinos, who came to support fellow alumna Shereen Sy.
Book Nook is a community-driven library where anyone can read, donate and share books. Managed by SM Cares, children and adults alike can enjoy a diverse collection of books, or attend one of the many events and workshops. Book Nook first opened in SM Aura in 2020, and its second branch is located at the fifth level of SM Podium in Ortigas Center.
RAMPING UP CAMPAIGN TO END CHILD HUNGER AND MALNUTRITION POVERTY and hunger have life-altering effects on children. In the Philippines, the prevalence of malnutrition, particularly stunting, among children and adolescents remains high. This poses a risk not just on their physical health and development but also on their cognitive ability and economic productivity.
The result is heartbreaking. A generation of disadvantaged children will die or not reach their potential. Too hungry to focus in school, so poor they are forced into work, or married off in the hope that one less belly at home will mean everyone else can survive just a little longer.
To help address this pressing issue, World Vision, a Christian humanitarian organization, launched the “Enough” campaign—a global initiative that aims to end child hunger and bring hope, justice, and joy to children worldwide.
Dr. Herbert Q. Carpio, World Vision Philippines’ national director, emphasized the urgency of addressing child hunger: “No child should ever have to endure the pain of going to bed hungry.”
As part of this initiative, World Vision works to ensure that children, their families, and their communities have sustainable sources of income. The organization provides livelihood support, agricultural training, and nutritional programs to help families break the cycle of poverty and malnutrition.
World Vision also recognizes the importance of early childhood development in breaking the cycle of poverty. Through its Go Baby Go! (GBG) program, the organization equips parents with essential skills for nurturing and disciplining their children in a loving and respectful manner. GBG also strengthens maternal and child health services by equipping clinics with the necessary tools to improve service quality and create a more child-friendly environment.
Hunger and malnutrition can end when everyone works together to restore hope, joy and justice for children. The public can contribute in making a difference in a child’s life. For as little as P30 a day or P900 a month, you can aid families in their battle against malnutrition and hunger. More information is available at www.worldvision. org.ph.
AS parents, we all want to give our children every advantage to help them grow strong, healthy, and full of energy. But what happens when your child is a picky eater? I know this struggle well. My son Marcus was incredibly picky with his food choices. He only liked tofu, miso soup and steak. His growing-up milk then was only available until he was four, and beyond that I constantly worried about how to supplement his nutrients.
Like many moms, I wished there was a way to fill the gaps in his diet—to give him the nutrients he needed to support his immunity, growth, and development. That’s why I was excited when I was invited to the launch of Unilab’s newest innovations in children’s nutrition: PowerCEEZ and UHP SuperGROW, the first Marvel-themed vitamin supplements in the Philippines. These new vitamins are designed to help parents like us safeguard our children’s nutrition, supporting their immunity, growth and development alongside proper diet and a healthy lifestyle. And what better way to excite our children about taking their daily vitamins than featuring their favorite superheroes? I was also glad to catch up with friends from Disney Asia and super mom Jackie Go.
Filipino families stay healthy. With these nutrition supplements, they bring quality vitamins packed with essential nutrients to help children aged 4-12 reach their full potential with the added fun and inspiration of Marvel superheroes.
PowerCEEZ helps safeguard kids with the immune-boosting power of vitamin C and Zinc. These nutrients are essential in strengthening their defense against common illnesses, ensuring they stay strong and active for all their daily adventures.
UHP SuperGROW provides a powerful blend of vitamins A, B Complex, C, and D for overall health and development, Taurine and Lysine to help support brain function and appetite, Zinc for immunity and growth, and Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF), a key nutrient to help support height and overall growth. This superhero-themed multivitamin even comes with a collectible Marvel measuring cup, making it more exciting for kids to take their daily dose of nutrients.
Looking back, I can’t help but think about how these products would have been a game-changer for me when Marcus was younger. He is a certified Marvel fan who just finished his gigantic Lego Avengers Headquarters. Like many kids, he didn’t love eating vegetables or fruits. As a mom, I wanted to make sure he was getting the right nutrients. With these nutrition supplements, today’s parents have a worry-free way to supplement their children’s diet, ensuring they get the nutrients they need even when they’re not eating a perfectly balanced meal.
Unilab remains steadfast in its mission to provide world-class, high-quality healthcare products. Every product they develop follows their “Quality Alaga” standards, ensuring they are proven effective, made with high standards, carefully tested, and world-
premium ingredients, ensuring that every bottle delivers the best for our children’s health.
To introduce these new vitamins, Unilab hosted the “Super Hero Headquarters” event, a Marvelthemed celebration filled with fun activities for kids and parents. Guests got an exclusive first look at the new TV commercials for these nutrition supplements, showcasing how these vitamins help equip little heroes for life’s daily challenges.
Dr. Emaluz Parian de los Angeles, diplomate of the Philippine Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition pediatrician emphasized the importance of consistent nutrition, stating that with the right vitamins, parents can help boost their little ones’ development and defense against everyday health challenges.
Nerissa Inumerable, UHP marketing director, shared Unilab’s vision for children’s health, saying that their mission has always been to support the health and well-being of Filipino kids, empowering them to grow strong and thrive. With PowerCEEZ and UHP SuperGROW, they are giving parents the confidence their little heroes have the right daily nutrition to fuel their growth, strengthen their immunity, and unlock their full potential.
Every child has a hero inside them, ready to take on the world with energy, strength and confidence. But even superheroes need support. With these health supplements, parents now have a powerful way to ensure their kids get the nutrition they need to grow, learn, and play at their best.
These Marvel-themed vitamins are now available in leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide. Because when it comes to raising our own superheroes, every parent deserves a little extra power, too. n
A dietitian’s take on the health benefits of potatoes
By Pauline Joy M. Gutierrez
WITH so much focus on diet trends and superfoods, potatoes tend to be overlooked and often mistakenly seen as unhealthy. But what if this unassuming vegetable is actually a nutritional powerhouse hiding in plain sight?
To uncover the truth behind this misunderstood staple, we turned to Jo Sebastian, registered nutritionist and dietitian, who recently shared why potatoes might just be the thing your plate has been missing at a talk hosted by Potatoes USA, the marketing organization for US potatoes.
“Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium, and they provide complex carbohydrates essential for fueling both the brain and body,” Sebastian explained. She emphasized that carbohydrates are the body’s preferred energy source because they are broken down into glucose, which fuels brain function, muscle activity, and overall bodily processes.
Unlike fats and proteins, which take longer to convert into usable energy, carbohydrates provide a more immediate and efficient energy supply.
“Many Filipinos avoid carbs when trying to lose weight, but cutting them out completely can leave you feeling sluggish and unfocused,” she said, adding that no single food causes weight gain, as it all depends on overall calorie intake. She noted that the complex carbohydrates in
potatoes digest more slowly than simple sugars, providing a steady release of energy. This makes them an ideal choice for active individuals and those who need sustained mental clarity throughout the day. Beyond energy, potatoes offer a wealth of
nutrients. A medium-sized potato with skin provides about 30 percent of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production. It also contains 620 mg of potassium—more than a banana—helping regulate muscle function, fluid balance, and blood pressure.
Potatoes’ adaptability extends beyond nutrition. They’re a global culinary chameleon: think German potato pancakes, Peruvian papa a la huancaína, or Japanese potato korokke. In the Philippines, they’re a budget-friendly star in afritada, kaldereta, and menudo Their gluten-free nature also caters to modern dietary needs.
Environmentally, potatoes shine. They require less water per calorie than rice or wheat, and produce more food energy per acre than most major grain crops.
Addressing misconceptions about potato preparation, Sebastian stressed that it’s not the potato itself but how it’s cooked that matters. “Deep-frying or adding excessive butter and cheese increases calories and unhealthy fats, but roasted, boiled, or air-fried potatoes are nutritious and satisfying options,” she explained. Sebastian aptly concludes that potatoes deserve more credit—not as a guilty pleasure, but as a smart, sustainable choice for everyday nourishment.
“They’re nutrient-dense, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.”
the unveiling of the Australia Corner at SM Podium’s Book Nook. In photo from left: Australian Embassy counsellors Luke Villiers (economic), Peter Adams (development), and Johanna Stratton (political and public diplomacy), with Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu, Book Nook pioneer arch.
JO SEBASTIAN, registered nutritionist and dietitian, talks up the health benefits of potatoes.
“That was the best-ever achievement by our country in a winter sports competition,” Tolentino said. “So let’s give what’s due this team because before their historic success in Harbin, they’ve been competing under the Philippine flag at their own expense and without any support from our government.”
T he POC was quick to the draw in rewarding the athletes with a cash bonus of $5,000 each when they flew into the country to present their medals four days after their victory in the Asian Winter Games. Under Republic Act 10699—an Act Expanding the Coverage of Incentives Granted to National Athletes and Coaches—the team is entitled to a P2-million incentive with the coaches receiving bonuses equivalent to 20 percent of the athletes’ reward.
“I’m hoping they release incentives the soonest and avoid any delays because this may affect the team’s preparations on their campaign to qaualify for the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina next year.” Tolentino said that the team is bound for two qualifying tournaments later this year and the incentives would definitely boost their morale.
UP volleybelles crack Lady Bulldogs’ armor
their high school alma mater.
CBy Josef Ramos
HARLY SUAREZ finally gets a crack at a world title when the Rio de Janeiro Olympian challenges World Boxing Organization super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete of Mexico on May 10 at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California.
“I d on’t care about the purse but the fight against the best in this business after waiting for many years,” the 36-year-old Suarez. “All I want is to become a world champion and now I have a chance.”
Suarez, a pride of Davao del Sur, won three Southeast Asian Games gold medals before turning a pro in January 2019. He will fly to the US immediately with manager and trainer Delfin Boholst to train in earnest for the fight promoted by Top Rank.
We’ll establish our training camp early next month,” Boholst said.
“Charly’s training and conditioning at the Philippine Army camp in Taguig is doing very well.” Suarez sports an 18-0 win-loss record with 10 knockouts and is six-year older than Navarrete, who’s known for his barrage of power-packed punches.
We’re not favored in this fight, but that’s fine. That’s what we like,” Suarez said. “We will work hard to become a world champion.”
Navarette, 30 with a 39-2-1 win-lossdraw record with 32 knockouts, knocked out two Filipinos in his previous fights— Juan Miguel Elorde in the fourth round in 2019 and Jeo Santisima in the 11th round both in Las Vegas.
UNIVERSITY of the Philippines (UP) brought National University (NU) back down to earth with a hard-fought 26-24, 23-25, 17-25, 25-23, 15-12 victory in University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women’s volleyball action on Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
M iddle blocker Nina Ytang exploded with 30 points as UP, which licked a narrow five-set defeat to the Ateneo de last Saturday, climbed to solo fifth place in the eight-team field with a 4-5 win-loss card.
“I’m speechless ako, you don’t really know where the ball’s going,” the 23-year-old said. “We just gave everything we’ve got in this match.”
“In the fifth set, we told each other ‘we’re here in this situation so let’s go for the win,” she added. Ytang became the first middle blocker in the league to
AYL GONZAGA bolstered her promising career with an impressive double victory in the Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas National Juniors Tennis Championships. Julius Otoc also delivered a AYL GONZAGA (right) and Julius Otoc hold their trophies with (from left) Digos Tennis Club officer Paul Basan and Ray Anthony Loyola, organizer and consultant for City Sports Development.
I’M doing a stream-of-consciousness column this week, commenting on things as they come to mind.
Being a Celtics fan, I was concerned about Jayson Tatum’s injury in Boston’s game against the Sacramento Kings last Tuesday. The playoffs are in sight as April creeps up behind March, and if any team aspires to perform well in the playoffs— especially a team
for the first back-to-back in recent National Basketball Association (NBA) history—their best player has got to stay healthy.
score at least 30 points since former NU ace Jaja Santiago’s 30-point performance in a five-set loss to University of Santo Tomas last April 8, 2017. She was also two points shy from matching the UP women’s volleyball scoring record of Tots Carlos last February 28, 2018.
A s importantly, Ytang’s heroic allowed the Fighting Maroons to snap a seven-year, nine-match losing streak ro NU, a drought that stretched back to Season 81 in 2019—the last time the Fighting Maroons defeated the Lady Bulldogs was in the second round of Season 80 on April 4, 2018.
In a back-and-forth fifth set, the Lady Bulldogs slowly began to gain the upper hand behind consecutive blocks from Sheena Toring and Alyssa Solomon for a 12-11 lead.
UP displayed incredible poise under pressure against the defending champions and uncorked a crucial 4-0 run behind a net touch error and an
standout performance in the boys’ division in the tournament held at the Digos City Tennis Club in Davao del Sur over the weekend.
T he top-seeded 14-year-old Gonzaga dropped only two games in a commanding 6-2, 6-0 final victory over Princess Placa.
The rising Olongapo City star continued her stellar form in the 16-and-under division as the No. 2 seed halted Mariam Mokalam’s upset streak with a 6-0, 6-3 triumph to emerge as the lone double-title winner in the Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.
M okalam earlier stunned top seed Aika Salahuddin, 7-5, 6-4, in the semifinals but struggled
But in a freak moment Monday night in Sacramento, Tatum tried to contest a 3-point shot as Domantas Sabonis jumped under him. Tatum stepped on Sabonis’ foot and hurt his ankle. Major moment of concern as the most illustrious Celtic of the current era lay writhing in pain, face down, on the floor.
Tatum has been averaging 27.1 points, 8.7 rebounds and six assists per game this season. He walked back to the showers on his own though, but gingerly. Later he left the arena with a slight limp—an indication that it was not a serious injury.
B ut other NBA players are not as lucky. Kyrie Irving has a torn ACL from a Mavericks game played on March 11. Curiously the game was also against the Sacramento Kings and the circumstances were very similar to the TatumSabonis encounter.
L ate in the first quarter of that game, Irving went on a drive and stepped on Jonas Valančiūnas’ foot. Startled, he awkwardly sought balance with his left leg. That’s how the ACL happened. Irving will miss the rest of the season, and some say, probably all of next season too.
W hat a blow for the Dallas Mavericks who are still dealing with the mind-boggling Luka Doncic trade. Irving had been averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.6 assists so far. Since the trade the Mavs have retrograded to 11th in the Western Conference. Besides Irving, Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford
attack error from Solomon, a quick hit from Ytang and an off-the-block attack from Joan Monares to seal the stunning victory in two hours and 35 minutes.
“The players were quick to adjust,” UP coach Benson Bocboc said. “They patiently worked for the win, their energy was down there, but they stayed alive.”
Monares had 16 points, eight excellent digs and eight excellent receptions, while Irah Jaboneta achieved a triple-double of 10 points on eight attacks, 19 excellent receptions and 13 excellent digs.
Most Valuable Player race frontrunner Bella Belen had a tripledouble effort of 21 points on 16 attacks, 13 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions for NU, which absorbed its first loss in nine matches.
Solomon tallied 19 points on 15 attacks, three blocks, and one ace with nine excellent digs.
Kianne Olango and Bienne Bansil, both coming from NU’s girls’ volleyball program—had 10 points each against
against Gonzaga’s all-around prowess in the final.
Fif th-seeded Otoc claimed the 14-and-under crown at the esoense of No. 3 Carl Eduarte, 6-2, 6-2, in the quarterfinals and top-seeded Jan Gecosala, the previous week’s Cotabato champion, 3-6, 7-5, 10-8 in the semifinals.
He secured the title with a solid 6-3, 6-3 win over No. 4 Gil Niere, earning him MVP honors alongside Gonzaga.
T he tournament, which wrapped up the three-leg Mindanao swing of the national junior circuit, is part of the Palawan Pawnshop program spearheaded by president and CEO Bobby Castro.
Jaz Manguilimot tossed 17 excellent sets, while Yesha Capistrano contributed 11 excellent digs and seven excellent receptions for the Fighting Maroons. NU, however, regained its winning form in the men’s contest and continued to defend the crown with a 23-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-23 victory also over UP.
B ouncing back from a four-set loss to the De La Salle last Sunday, NU solidified its hold of solo second place with a 7-2 record.
Jade Disquitado finished with 22 points on 21 attacks, 20 excellent receptions and six excellent digs for NU, which extended its domination of UP to 13 matches, while Leo Aringo contributed 19 points and Michaelo Buddin tallied 17 points on 16 attacks, 11 excellent receptions and nine excellent digs.
Olayemi Raheem was the lone doubledigit scorer with 26 points on 24 attacks for the Fighting Maroons, who dropped to solo seventh place with a 2-7 record.
are on the injury list as well, and some key role players too.
W hat an ordeal for Klay Thompson, huh, who left Golden State despite Steph Curry’s pleas for him to stay because he wanted to play for a well-positioned championship-hunting team. But with those injuries and the decimated line-up, looks like Thompson is thinking back to his decision.
But maybe there’s hope, the injured Luka replacement, Anthony Davis, seems to be on the heal. Out since February 8 with an adductor strain, he is scheduled to play his second game with the Mavs on March 31 against the Brooklyn Nets.
S till, there are concerns about the heal-level of the former Los Angeles Laker. Is it worth the risk to let him back in the fray given their current standing and the number of injured players they already have in the bullpen? Some want Davis to rest some morefor future considerations, but looks like the 6’10 center-forward won’t have any of that. Well, good luck, Mavs! Now, March being March, can March Madness in the US NCAA not be part of the basketball conversation?
T here’s an injury report from there too that is truly heartbreaking. The University of Southern California Trojans women’s basketball team lost their star guard Juju Watkins to a season-ending ACL injury while playing Mississippi State just yesterday. (PH time). Watkins drew a foul as she was being crowded by two
defenders. She lost her balance, landed awkwardly, immediately grabbed her knee then grimaced in pain. The verdict: a torn ACL. Watkins led USC to a 30-3 win-loss record this season with 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks. Now, the Trojans have to go on without her as
THE Fighting Maroons prove the Lady Bulldogs aren’t unbeatable after all—but they need five sets to dispose of the erstwhile unbeaten defending champions.
Envoys&Expats
Ambassador shines the brightest light for Australian-Philippine cooperation
ON the strength of mutual ties that date back 70-plus years ago, Australia has been among the Philippines’ strongest development partners and staunchest allies.
With Amb. HK Yu at the helm, Filipinos have profoundly felt the workings of Australia’s deputation through its “Strategic Partnership” that covers a vast spectrum of cooperation ranging from trade, defense, and security, as well as education, among a host of many others.
Fittingly for Women’s Month, the amiable diplomat accorded Envoys&Expats with an exclusive and comprehensive narrative about the Australian Embassy’s everexpanding mutual engagements with the Philippines, as well as some aspects of her personal life, as this “gem of an envoy” nears the completion her local posting.
ENVOYS&EXPATS: What was the first thing that came to mind when you were assigned to the Philippines?
YU: When the phone call came through to let me know I had been assigned here, I remember jumping up and down with joy with my husband Fergus!
I was also humbled to represent Australia as the ambassador to one of our closest friends and partners in the region. At that time, the Philippines was the only posting I applied for. I felt and continue to feel so passionate about this country. I believed this was where I wanted to be, and where I could make the greatest impact.
Having Korean parents, can you speak their language? What is the advantage of being exposed
to another culture early in your career?
Yes, Korean is my first language. In fact, I did not learn English until I was 11 years old, when we moved to Australia. It is such a multicultural nation. More than half of its residents, or 51.5 percent, were born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas. Over 5.5 million Australians speak a language other than English at home, including Korean and Tagalog!
Being bilingual came into play in 2009, in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. I was posted to our embassy in Tokyo as financial attaché covering both Japan and Korea. With that crisis, leaders of the world decided G20 had an important role to play. I recall that the former prime minister of Australia Kevin Rudd encouraged then-Korean president Lee Myungbak to chair the G20 as the first Asian and non-G7 member. And Australia said: We will send you help. Someone can help you host and chair the meetings throughout your presidency. The person will know economic policy and be able to speak Korean. Of course, there are not too many of us that fit that description. I was working in the Australian Treasury at the time, could speak Korean and worked on economic policies for my whole professional life. Although I was posted to the Japanese capital, my government asked me to collaborate with the Korean counterpart for a whole year during their G20 presidency. My
bilingual skills came in very handy then, and that experience led to one of the highlights of my career. I was even awarded two medals: one from the Australian government, and one from the Korean president.
Curiously, what does ‘Hae Kyong’ mean in Korean?
My parents gave me such a beautiful name: “Hae” means “benevolent” and “Kyong” is “Light of the Jade.”
Before joining the foreign service, you came from finance. How will international finance shape diplomacy in the future?
International finance is increasingly relevant in diplomacy because it is what makes economies run and grow. I often say, “economic power equals strategic power.”
Australia recognizes the growing significance of economic engagement in diplomacy, particularly in Southeast Asia. In September 2023, the Australian government launched “Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040,” which aims to deepen economic integration with the region. It outlines practical pathways to enhance two-way trade and investment, reflecting our commitment to harnessing the region’s economic growth.
Australia also actively participates in international financial institutions such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and the Asian Development Bank supporting projects in infrastructure, health, education, and private-sector development. We have been innovative in mobilizing private financing and finance hybrids in our development programs to promote economic stability, sustainable development, and regional prosperity. For one, Australia utilizes development-finance mechanisms assisting countries in the Indo-Pacific Region to build climate-resilient
infrastructure, improve gender equality, while helping small and medium enterprises.
These policies and programs reflect Australia’s commitment to leveraging international finance as a tool for diplomatic engagement, with a view to achieving economic development and regional stability.
The embassy has been vocal about its stance in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea (WPS/SCS). Why is Australia’s position such?
Australia has been unwavering in its commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous IndoPacific. A peaceful WPS/SCS where international law is respected and adhered to, with waterways open for trade, is at the very core of our interests.
We depend on a region governed by long established rules and norms, where no country dominates and no country is dominated; where disputes are resolved through dialogue, not force and raw power; and where all of us can cooperate, trade, and thrive.
Australia is deeply concerned when countries pursue claims or engage in activities that are inconsistent with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. This includes undertaking activities that are provocative and destabilizing, or do not respect the rights and freedoms of others, or when they advance their claims by intimidation or coercion.
We will continue to support the Philippines and other partners to enhance maritime security, uphold international law and manage their marine resources.
Australia and China have spotty relations too. What lessons would you like to impart with the Philippines? Regarding the recent incident with a foreign military,
how does your country approach the situation and move forward from it?
A stable and constructive relationship is in the interests of both Australia and China. We cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, and engage in our national interest. Our approach will be to remain patient, calibrated and deliberate.
We respect the right of all states to exercise freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace. China is entitled to exercise freedom of navigation consistent with international law. We expect others to respect Australia’s right to do the same. We also expect that all states conduct their activities on the high seas with due regard to the safety of civilian aviation.
Australia has made multiple representations to China about our expectations for safe, professional, and transparent behavior. We will continue to do so, as these are norms all states have interests in upholding.
We have witnessed dynamism in Australia’s engagements with the Philippines during your tenure. How is the Strategic Partnership progressing? What would you consider as highlights of the bilateral ties?
One highlight of my career as a diplomat is the elevation of the Philippines-Australia relationship to a Strategic Partnership in September 2023. And I am quite pleased that we have set that Strategic Partnership into action.
Our partnership on defense and security is stronger than ever. We continue to increase our joint training, enhancing our interoperability and readiness to respond to shared security challenges. Also, we have undertaken maritime cooperative activities in the WPS/SCS and collaborated closely with partners like the United States and Japan. Australia’s maritime programs
with the Philippines support regional peace, stability, and prosperity, while contributing to marine environmental protection and climate change resiliency. We are providing P3.6 billion in bilateral and regional investments in these maritime initiatives.
We are also strengthening our longstanding development cooperation with the new “Philippines-Australia Development Partnership Plan.” Between 2024 and 2025, total overseas development assistance to the Philippines is estimated at AU$94.2 million, or P3.4 billion, to support the Philippines’ development agenda.
We are bolstering our economic security and expanding bilateral trade and investment. One of the ways we are working with the Philippine government to deepen economic engagement is through technical assistance and economic programs. For example, we are collaborating to design a new program worth AU$45 million, or about P1.7 billion, over 5 years that will support inclusive national economic growth.
Away from all that work, what do you do for leisure?
Whether in or away from the diplomatic limelight, I think I am pretty much the same old me. I love spending time with my husband— the best in the world—going on little adventures. He organizes to check out a new gallery or a restaurant. Sometimes, we just go for a walk or hang out at home binge watching both Korean and English dramas.
What have you discovered about the Philippines since assuming your post? The true strength of the Philippines is its people. Filipinos are regarded as among the friendliest and most hospitable worldwide.
Slovenian PM shifts linkages with PHL into higher gears
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
MENTION Slovenia to most Filipinos, and the first thing that comes to mind would be of international basketball star Luka Dončić.
Deputy prime minister and foreign minister Tanja Fajon would like to change that.
During her visit to the Philippines last March 10 to 12, Fajon opened the first Slovenian deputation in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia. She also signed a bilateral labor agreement with the Department of Migrant Workers that would pave the way for the deployment of Filipino workers to the central European state.
A young republic only a population of only 2 million—a little bit less than that of Quezon City—the Republic of Slovenia gained independence in 1991 from what was the former country of Yugoslavia. At 91 percent, it has one of the highest gross domestic product per capita by purchasing power parity, compared to the European Union (EU) average in 2023. It also wields influence in the EU and international community. It is a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in 2024, three years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
During her visit to the Philippines, the Philippine National Police was in the middle of implementing the International Criminal Court’s warrant of arrest for former president Rodrigo Duterte.
While she would not comment on the arrest of the ex-strongman, she commended “efforts of the Philippine authorities to respect international obligations and commitments.”
Fajon also met with her counterpart Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. She said Slovenia is supporting the bid of the Philippines to become a nonpermanent member of the UNSC. Here is the excerpt of her interview:
BUSINESSMIRROR: It is really an honor for us to interview you, especially during Women’s Month. First, we would like to know your thoughts on going beyond the
“getting-to-know-you stage” in Philippine-Slovenian bilateral relations.
FAJON: I have to say that after spending three days in the Philippines, for the first time ever, I am really positively impressed with the friendliness and hospitality of its people. It is a beautiful country. I want to [see and learn so much about it].
I hope that I can also attract Filipinos to visit Slovenia because it is, in size, a much smaller country with 2 million inhabitants, and with beautiful landscapes. We may be a small nation, but extremely ambitious of protecting what we have.
We are proud of our nature and of our healthy, clean environment.
We are a supportive nation. You mentioned Dončić and our fervor for basketball, but we have many other sports superstars.
What is the main objective of your official visit?
Slovenia is officially opening the first residential embassy in the Philippines, and the first also in Asean. That really sends a strong signal of our intention to boost our political and economic cooperation, as well as people-to-people contacts. There are many areas that have immense potential.
So, the visit is not only that we will open the embassy—we are also signing a memorandum of understanding. It is not just to invite workers to the Philippines; we also want to reach beyond that.
Slovenia has different sectors: space, industry, artificial intelligence, renewables, nuclear energy, information and communications technology, and transportation. We want to use our potential to increase our cooperation and our investments, so that is a lot to start our new relationship. But I do hope that we are pushing into a higher gear.
Which of these areas of cooperation would you like to focus on?
We had a lengthy and exceptional meeting with Secretary Manalo. We looked at all sectors of cooperation, and there is growing interest.
As I mentioned space technology with satellites, we can offer our technology to observe how the weather or climate change affects the population on the ground.
Slovenia has the Port of Koper: an entry point to Central and Eastern European markets, and the shortest way from Asia to Europe via maritime routes.
Then we have the sectors of AI, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and transportation. For us, it is particularly important to attract workers to our country.
Most important is that I am accompanied during my visit by almost 40 companies and institutions. So, we will have business and employment events.
I saw in your portfolio that you used to be a radio reporter. How did you transition into politics and to being the top diplomat of Slovenia?
Yes, it was long ago that I switched from journalism to politics—15 years back, or so. I used to be a foreign correspondent, having lived, and worked in Brussels, and covering different European countries.
At some point, after eight years of being a foreign correspondent covering the EU, I was invited to join domestic politics, and I took the challenge.
Sometimes, I used to say that journalism and politics have something in common. In both professions, you have to be capable of communicating and delivering messages. Even if you are a good politician, but unable to communicate well, you cannot reach out with your message, and even the best idea can fail.
But now I am, for the last 15 years, a politician. I was 12 years into serving in the European Parliament, and now into my third year as a foreign minister, and the first female [to hold the post] in the history of the Republic of Slovenia. I am also serving as the deputy prime minister.
Regarding the politics of the EU and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization or NATO, what are the lessons that Slovenia has learned, or is learning, about the war in Ukraine? Do you think those lessons can be applied also in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea?
We have many shared values, and we are very much like-minded countries. When you mentioned Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, we always commend international law: the UN Charter, so we strongly support the Ukrainians’ fight for territorial sovereignty and integrity. No one can buy force and take your land away. It is also something that we experienced in our history. And we commend the Philippines’ vote on the UN’s resolution involving Ukraine. We really protect international law and the UN Charter together—not
only when it comes to the Russian invasion, but also when it comes to the challenges that the Philippines faces in the disputed waters.
So, we are committed to international law and maritime law—those are what we strongly share with the Philippines.
The war is a particularly challenging geostrategic environment with a lot of conflicts, a lot of battles, with high numbers of casualties among civilian population and even humanitarian workers. We need to protect international groups; we need effective institutions and strong commitments to the UN Charter. Yes, we do need reforms. We need to make multilateralism more effective, and the Security Council more modernized. But that is why we need partners that are like-minded; that are committed to the world.
Is Slovenia also concerned about the United States leaving NATO?
For us, being a member of NATO’s alliance is the best guarantee for collective security. But we are also aware that we, as Europeans, need to strengthen our defense even more, because of what I mentioned, for geostrategic challenges that we are facing and also the Russian aggression.
But for us in Slovenia, there is no better alternative than to respect international law and the UN Charter. We are committed to multilateralism and working together with likeminded countries.
What happens if the US suddenly withdraws from NATO?
I do not see that scenario [happening]. I think for us, the alliance with the US through NATO is still vital. We are willing and committed to work together. We are committed to increasing our defense budget according to our capabilities. But there is also something that I wish to mention: the security in our people’s mindset. It is not only about the question of militarization, but also strengthening our public services to really have a strong social state, and also the safety of our citizens.
We would also like to ask you about the incident involving a Filipina who was killed in Slovenia back in January.
I regret that event happened. Obviously, it was an inside family matter.
But I have to say that we are taking it very seriously, and our responsible authorities are clearly investigating. We will continue to monitor the investigation. But that was one isolated event.
We have Filipinos [living and working in Slovenia. I do hope that through the memorandum, we will be attracting more,] because they are very respected, valuable, and very committed people. We are fully committed and [from our side,] respect the full rights of workers. No forgiveness to any incident that is violent or disrespectful of rights.
So, there are no updates on that case, right?
None yet.
What would be your “elevator pitch” for Filipinos to visit your country?
Let me start with young people or students, because we have two good programs, and we do have some Filipino learners in Slovenia. Our country may be small, but incredibly attractive in its quality of life. Its citizens have an elevated level of respect and protection for our environment. We are one of the rare countries that have the rights to clean water and access to the water written in our constitution. We protect our natural resources. There is a short distance access to the breathtaking Adriatic Sea.
We are an open-minded nation, and a very friendly country. Tourists, when they come to Slovenia, they are always very pleasantly surprised, and they return.
Ambassador shines the brightest light for Australian-Philippine cooperation
Continued from C1
I have met so many people in the course of my work, and through living here. Everyone has been so welcoming and engaging. You can strike up a conversation with Filipinos at any level, and you will immediately feel their openness and generosity to share their time, ideas, and opinions with you.
What has impressed me the most is their resiliency and positivity. I have seen the Philippines wrestle with some major challenges like natural disasters. But even throughout all of that, they remain happy, and they get on with things. Seeing all of this firsthand has had a huge impact on me as a person, and I think I have actually become a more grateful person. I know that no matter what challenges or disasters I may face in the future, I would be able to tell myself: “Let’s deal with it like Filipinos do!”
What is your favorite Filipino dish? Anything “Aussie” you are missing?
It is wonderful that whenever I go around the country, Filipino hospitality almost always involves a sampling of local food. I must say, I have developed a love for lechon and adobo!
How great is it that many of
my family’s favorite Australian food and beverage products, which include quality beef, lamb, wine, and cheese, are readily available here?
We recently held an Australian Food Festival at The Marketplace with over 1,000 Australian grocery items, and these are still readily available in the supermarkets all over the Philippines. How great is that! We hope to bring more products and brands in, so our Filipino friends can enjoy the wonderful quality of Australian products.
Any upcoming projects or cooperation Filipinos can look forward to?
One project that I am really passionate about is in the area of forensic science. With the help of the Australian government funding, we have actually developed a Forensic Medicine Master’s program between Monash University and University of the Philippines-Manila. It will start in the middle of this year and will help the Philippines increase local forensic medical expertise. This will, in turn, ensure a successful establishment of an independent and operational National Forensic Institute by the Philippine government. It will contribute to a better justice system, including for sexual-assault cases,
better victim identification during natural disasters, and better publichealth policies. Another is the imminent completion of the Provincial Soils Laboratory in Agusan del Sur: a state-of-the-art facility worth AU$15 million and has been modelled on
Australian laboratories. Getting soil health right is the best way to improve agricultural productivity, climate resilience and achieve national food security. Australia is supporting this through our memorandum of understanding on the “National Soil Health Strategy” signed in front of
Pres. Marcos and Prime Minister Albanese in September 2023. Among other things, we are
what are your reflections on gender equality? While we have made strides on the matter, we still have a long way to go.
Empowerment of women and girls is at
legal and court services more accessible to women, children, and other disadvantaged groups. We do all this not only because it is the right thing to do, but because it is the smart thing to do.
(Interview by Mike Policarpio and Malou Talosig-Bartolome)
SLOVENIAN deputy prime minister and foreign minister Tanja Fajon BERNARD TESTA
‘La Fiesta 2025’ toasts to Spain-PHL friendship and economic growth
By John Eiron R. Francisco
SOME 400 guests gathered for “La Fiesta”—the annual celebration of Spain’s rich culture and gastronomy organized by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (La Camara).
The Spanish envoy to the Philippines emphasized that beyond the festivities, the event which welcomed business leaders, government officials, and industry representatives symbolized the longstanding and strong partnership between the two countries.
“Our gathering [served not only as a tribute to our shared history but was] also as a powerful reminder of the robust economic and cultural ties that have united our nations,” said Amb. Miguel Utray in his message during the ceremony on March 7 at Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
He pointed out that the SpainPhilippines relationship extends beyond diplomacy, as he described it as “a dynamic partnership driven by trade, investment, and a shared vision for sustainable growth.”
“[Navigating] an increasingly complex global landscape, Spain and the Philippines have achieved a more sustainable growth than last year,” Utray noted, as he cited his country’s 3.2-percent growth, as well as the Philippines’ 5.2 percent.
Given these developments, he underscored the importance of continued collaboration in unlocking new opportunities and achieving mutual prosperity.
Since its establishment on July 16, 1899, the chamber has played a key role in fostering exchanges between Spain and the Philippines, Utray said. He noted that in recent years, Spanish businesses have significantly contributed to their host country’s economic growth, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, energy and digital transformation.
“The mission of this chamber is to open new horizons and unify
commitment, sustainability, and innovation in the country,” he explained, while highlighting Spain’s continued dedication to a foreign policy that actively engages both the Spanish community and the Philippines.
Celebration of partnership, talent BEYOND the ambassador’s positive outlook, the evening opened with a cocktail reception which allowed guests to connect and network before the formal program began.
In his opening remarks, ACCIONA’s director of Infrastructure in Southeast Asia Ruben Cama echoed the same optimism about the future of Spain-Philippines cooperation.
“I hope the relationship we have built through La Camara and this partnership will continue to grow, strengthen and bear fruit, just as we hope to leave a lasting legacy for future generations,” Cama stated.
He also encouraged attendees to fully embrace the evening’s celebrations as an opportunity to forge new connections and create opportunities.
Reinforcing the key officials’ message of strengthening ties, the event also showcased the La Fiesta Talent Excellence Awards, which honored individuals and organizations for their dedication to cultural preservation and contributions to society.
Aligned with the night’s theme: “Celebrating Talent,” the awards recognized Instituto CervantesManila (ICM) and AC Mobility as notable recipients of the “Talent Excellence Award.”
ICM, in particular, was commended for its role in promoting the Spanish language and culture, with nearly 2,200 students currently
enrolled in its Spanish courses. Dining, dancing, dreaming of Spain
AFTER the awarding ceremony, the celebration seamlessly transitioned into the highly anticipated gala dinner, where guests were treated to an exquisite spread of Spain’s most cherished dishes.
The feast began with gazpacho: a refreshing cold soup made from ripe tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and garlic, all blended with the tang of sherry vinegar and the richness of olive oil. This vibrant dish was accompanied by pan de coca: a crisp Catalan bread that perfectly complemented the soup’s bold flavors.
For the appetizer, diners indulged in grilled seabass expertly cooked to achieve a delicate balance of smokiness and tenderness. The dish was served with potato confit, with
its velvety texture soaking up the flavors of romesco sauce: a nutty, slightly spicy Catalan specialty; as well as chimichurri: a bright and herbaceous Argentine-inspired condiment that elevated the fish’s natural sweetness. The main course showcased the
deep, soulful flavors of Spain with slow-braised beef cheeks in rioja: a dish that embodied patience and culinary mastery. The beef, simmered to perfection in rich Rioja wine and Pedro Ximénez vinegar, melted effortlessly in every bite. It was complemented by garlic aioli, roasted carrots, crispy potatoes, and pimientos de padrón that offered a combination of textures and tastes that celebrated the heartiness of Spanish cuisine.
To conclude this exceptional meal, guests were treated to the indulgent
Basque cheesecake: a dessert renowned for its caramelized top and creamy, custard-like center. This delightful end to the feast left a lingering sweetness that perfectly matched the warmth of the evening. As these culinary masterpieces were being enjoyed, the night came alive with the passionate rhythms of a flamenco performance that captivated the audience with its fiery energy. A live music performance added to the vibrant atmosphere, while excitement peaked with a raffle draw for two roundtrip tickets to Spain, which made dreams of an authentic Spanish getaway a reality for the lucky winners. The festivity culminated with an open kitchen show, where guests got a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the artistry behind Spanish cuisine, rounding off a night of culture, flavor and unforgettable experiences.
S’pore hosts concert to celebrate music, women and bilateral ties
THE Singaporean Embassy hosted a special evening of music on March 6 to celebrate International Women’s Month with “Strings & Keys: A Singapore-Philippines Serenade.”
The event featured two remarkable women musicians: Singaporean pianist Dr. Ning Hui See and Filipino harpist Vien Ignacio.
Fittingly, the concert repertoire included works by womencomposers such as “Romance variee, Op 3” and “Romanzen Op. 11 No. 2” by Clara Schumann, as well as “Dreaming, from Four Sketches Op. 15” by Amy Beach. The musical also featured compositions chosen to represent the Philippine-Singapore cultural exchange: “Mayon Fantasy” by Filipino composer Francisco Buencamino Sr. and “Home” by Singapore singer-songwritercomposer and cultural icon Dick Lee. In her remarks, Amb. Constance See emphasized the power of music in bringing nations and people closer together: “Music is
more than notes on a page; it is a language for storytelling, and for creating connections that transcend borders.”
Japanese music journalist Yoko Tsunekawa, who attended the concert, captured the evening’s highlights: “Dr. Ning Hui See [on piano and Vien Ignacio on harp celebrated] overlooked gems of the Romantic repertoire. Staying within the realm of forgotten composers, Dr. See brought Schumann’s flourishing works to life with a rich palette of colors and striking vitality. Her expressive right-hand phrasing, enhanced by a restrained use of pedal, invited us into an intimate and nuanced musical world. Ignacio, in turn, radiated sheer joy in her performances, capturing the spirit of the pieces with warmth and brilliance.”
An acclaimed Singaporean pianist and musicologist, Dr. See is a laureate of the “Citta di Padova” and “Cesar Franck International Piano Competitions,” as well as the Grand Prize winner of the “2012 Singapore
Steinway Youth Competition.” A PhD graduate of the Royal College of Music London, she is currently an adjunct lecturer at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.
Speaking about her selection of works for the evening, she shared that “I chose four Romantic works that bring a welcoming and
celebratory tone to the evening. Each piece stands on its own, but they also work together to create a musical journey.”
For Dr. See, the friendship between Singapore and the Philippines “is something I feel on a personal level when I interact with the people here. In this recital,
I [combined] the celebrations for International Women’s Day on March 8, as well as SingaporePhilippine relations.”
A 12-year-old harpist from the Philippines, Ignacio began her musical journey in Singapore at just 3 years old. She has topped competitions such as the “Vienna Virtuoso Music Competition” and “Singapore Harp Fest.” She has also taken the stage in major venues, including the Hong Kong Performing Arts Center and Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre.
The young protege said “this performance is special to me, because I was born and raised in Singapore. [It] is my second home.”
As part of the Singapore Embassy’s cultural outreach efforts, the event also welcomed young attendees from Orchestra of the Filipino Youth: the main performing arm of “Ang Misyon” which is a non-profit supporting musically talented youths; Philippine Youth Symphonic Band, which is part of the Young Musicians Development
and Quezon City’s Lucresia Kasilag Senior High School Performing Arts students. See pointed out the significance of engaging the next generation in the arts: “I hope tonight’s performance inspires young musicians to continue pursuing their craft, and for all our young guests to appreciate the power of music in bridging communities and cultures.”
The concert concluded with a duet by Dr. See and Vien, as they performed a special arrangement of Lee’s “Home” (1998)—a song that has often been described as the unofficial national anthem of Singapore. According to the embassy, it is deeply connected to Singaporean identity and aspirations, evoking themes of longing and national pride. For the deputation, it was a fitting finale to an evening that celebrated the unifying power of music and cultural friendship between Singapore and the Philippines.
burnt
Organization; Makati City Youth Orchestra;
AMB. Constance See (from left) with Singaporean pianist Dr. Ning Hui See and Filipino harpist Vien Ignacio
PRES. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines’ newly appointed chief representative Takashi Baba on March 19.
The meeting in Malacañang served as a venue to reaffirm the unwavering and strong partnership between the Philippines and JICA which highlighted the various official development assistance (ODA) projects underway. It also heralded a smooth leadership transition as outgoing agency head Takema Sakamoto.
Marcos Jr. ultimately expressed his utmost gratitude to JICA for its long-standing support to the country’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable growth.
JICA said that In the last three years, it had launched more than 70 new projects which placed the Philippines among the top global recipients of JICA’s assistance. These supported the enhancement of transportation networks, floodcontrol systems, innovations in health and agriculture, as well as the Bangsamoro peace process, to name a few. For the development aid agency, these initiatives significantly
contributed to socioeconomic development in every field, empowering underserved communities across the Philippines, with the spirit of its guiding principle: human security.
Beyond infrastructure, JICA said it is also keen on capacity development, receiving over 800 Filipino trainees in various fields that are critical to national quality growth for all. The programs, which include scholarships for about 100 professionals, have equipped government officials, experts and future leaders with advanced knowledge and technical expertise. By strengthening local capabilities, the agency has strengthened governance and public-service delivery, while developing a more skilled workforce that is ready to tackle the country’s evolving challenges. Those Filipinos are also furthering robust ties between the Philippines and Japan.
Moreover, JICA has fostered an exceptionally strong and
trusting relationship with Philippine partners that drove key reforms and addressed longstanding bottlenecks hindering infrastructure development and investment climate. Through the streamlining of permitting processes for infrastructure flagship projects by way of Executive Order 59, the establishment of an inter-agency committee for right-of-way activities through Administrative Order 19, and the adequate budget allocation via the General Appropriations Act, JICA has supported the accelerated implementation of key projects and improved the investment climate as a competitive destination for foreign and domestic investors.
“My proudest achievement is
the trust [in the] relationship, even at the highest level such as secretaries… [That way,] we can easily adjust and calibrate our direction to move,” Sakamoto confirmed.
JICA said it remains committed to unwaveringly supporting the Philippines’ development goals. The leadership transition, it averred, ensures the continuity of vital development programs that drive sustainable progress and strengthen governance to improve the living standards of Filipinos.
With seven decades of collaboration built on trust and shared goals, JICA and the Philippine government will continue working together to foster a more resilient and prosperous future.
THE Malaysia External Trade Development Corp. (MATRADE) in Manila further strengthened trade relations with the Philippines in 2025 via a series of impactful trade initiatives.
As Malaysia chairs the Asean this year, the programs were aimed at boosting bilateral trade, enhancing market access for Malaysian businesses, and supporting Philippine enterprises in tapping into its neighboring country’s dynamic economy.
MATRADE Manila is Malaysia’s national trade promotion agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).
According to Trade Attaché Intan Zalani who also heads the MATRADE-Manila, they will continue to focus on sectors such as halal, information and communications technology (ICT) and digitalization as well as construction and business services this year.
Zalani confirmed the organization’s dedication in strengthening Malaysian businesses’ presence in the Philippines’ market, while creating opportunities for local firm’s expansion in his country.
THE Department of Foreign Affairs’ Office of United Nations and International Organizations (UNIO) gathered Philippine government agencies, the UN and related development partners for the Philippines-UN Dialogue 2025 on March 5.
With the theme: “Driving Transitions for Impact, Scale and Synergy,” the dialogue charted the way forward for strategic development cooperation as the country transitions to an uppermiddle-income economy status.
Headlined by Secretary for Foreign Affairs (SFA) Enrique A. Manalo and Secretary for Socioeconomic Planning Arsenio M. Balisacan, the dialogue was attended by more than 150 participants from various Philippine government agencies, UN agencies and other international organizations, resident embassies and diplomatic missions, as well as representatives from the private sector in Manila.
recalibration of old approaches toward a new playbook, new templates [and] new strategies,” Manalo added.
MATRADE-Manila said it welcomes local companies interested in expanding their presence in the halal market through MIHAS. Additionally, it is actively recruiting Philippine buyers for the International Sourcing Program, which facilitates one-on-one business matching with Malaysian suppliers. In 2024, with support from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), 20 Philippine halal exporters participated under the Philippine Pavilion at MIHAS, which generated $ 7.9 million in sales.
Beyond MIHAS, MATRADE-Manila is also coordinating the participation of 10 Malaysian companies for the “16th Philippine Small and Medium Enterprises [SME] Business Expo” through its Malaysia Pavilion on May 9 and 10 at the SMX Convention Centre. The event will feature Malaysian companies in multiple sectors covering food and beverages, along with ICT.
MATRADE-Manila dg t eems the expo as “the premier event designed for SMEs, startups and entrepreneurs who are looking to explore various business solutions and opportunities which will serve as a great platform for Malaysia to highlight the wide variety of high-quality products and services to the Philippines’ market.”
This year, MATRADE will stage in Kuala Lumpur the 21st edition of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase: the world’s leading halal trade event from September 17 to 20. MIHAS 2025 will highlight 14 clusters that will include food and beverages, financial services, cosmetics, e-commerce, tourism, education and logistics.
Building momentum
MATRADE-Manila also facilitated the recent roundtable discussion on halal Industry last February 26 at the Embassy of Malaysia. The roundtable served as a platform in exploring opportunities for collaboration, discussing industry challenges, and identifying strategies to enhance MalaysiaPhilippines cooperation in the halal sector. It brought together key stakeholders from government agencies, private sector representatives, halal certification bodies, and trade associations.
In his opening remarks, Amb. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino said that, “as we explore key opportunities in halal certification, trade, investment and capacity building, it is equally important to address challenges and policy frameworks that can drive industry growth. Digitalization, innovation, and sustainability for example are transforming the halal economy, creating new avenues for businesses and enhancing global competitiveness.”
Castelino added that by fostering deeper ties, Malaysia and the Philippines can become key players in the expanding halal market, “ensuring inclusive and sustainable development for both nations and the broader Asean Region.”
In the construction sector, six Malaysian companies participated in “Worldbex 2025”
held in Manila between March 13 and 16. The event provided an ideal platform for Malaysian businesses to showcase their products, explore strategic partnerships, and strengthen trade ties with industry leaders in the Philippines.
Trade between Malaysia and the Philippines has reached $8.35 billion in 2024, which marked a 5.5-percent increase from the previous year. Exports grew by 5 percent to $6.08 billion, while imports from the Philippines rose by 6.8 percent to $2.27 billion.
Key Malaysian exports to the Philippines include petroleum products, electrical and electronic goods, palm oil products, chemicals, and processed food.
MATRADE-Manila said it remains committed to enhancing its country’s footprint in the Philippine market while facilitating local businesses’ expansion into Malaysia and beyond. Through these strategic initiatives, the organization aims to drive sustainable economic growth, foster knowledge exchange, and support businesses in navigating the evolving global trade landscape.
Philippine companies who are looking to source for Malaysian products and services can connect with MATRADE-Manila via manila@ matrade.gov.my to receive latest market updates and information on business opportunities.
In his welcome statement, Manalo outlined the Philippines’ vision for development cooperation that brings to the country and its people “impact, scale and synergy,” supporting the goal set by Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the country to graduate to uppermiddle-income economy status.
“We recognize that the UN and all our development partners can be part of our journey during this transition,” he remarked.
“We are taking steps toward development cooperation that is more intentional, focused and directed toward filling-in the gaps and accelerating development during this period of transition.”
The SFA cited the importance of continuing the implementation of the Philippines’ 2024-2028 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (SDCF), which set the stage for new generation partnerships that adhere to transparency, accountability and national ownership.
“The Philippines’ evolving needs and context require thoughtful
The dialogue featured two panel discussions on “Driving the Philippines’ Key Transition: Innovating Cooperation Models for Upper-Middle-Income Economy” and “Transitioning Philippines-United Cooperation for Impact and Synergy.” Both looked at challenges and solutions of the country’s transitions that include new models and sources of development financing, leveraging new technologies and innovation, fostering close coordination and consultations, plus maximizing opportunities for collaborations. Distinguished speakers included Secretary for Science and Technology Renato U. Solidum, former SFA and Management Association of the Philippines governor Jose Rene Almendras, along with other experts from the government and UN agencies. Before the dialogue, the country and the UN also jointly convened the second meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the Philippines 2024-2028 UN SDCF.
The committee is the highest governing body that provides strategic oversight, support, review and guidance of the SDCF. At the meeting, representatives from Philippine agencies and United Nations agencies discussed the SDCF’s key achievements in 2024 and discussed the ways forward for this year. The framework was signed during the UN Day commemoration on October 14, 2024 in the presence of Marcos Jr., which signaled the country’s political commitment to and partnership with the UN. The SDCF redefines the Philippines’ strategic partnership with the global agency to support the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and “Ambisyon Natin 2040.”
The meeting was
SEC. Enrique A. Manalo and Sec. Arsenio M. Balisacan (seventh and eighth from right) lead the Philippines-United Nations Dialogue 2025. DFA-OPD/JOHANNES ADRIAN DE GUIA
JICA Phils.’ new chief representative Takashi Baba (left) and his predecessor Takema Sakamoto (right) flank the Chief Executive.
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
Colorectal cancer can be beaten as patients share their stories to raise awareness
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
MARCH is colorectal cancer awareness month. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer worldwide and in the Philippines. In 2022, more than 1.9 million cases were diagnosed. Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death, leading to more than 900,000 deaths per year.
Colorectal cancer poses a serious threat to Filipinos, being a major contributor to cancer-related mortality. With a significant number of cases occurring in individuals over 50, preventative measures and early detection are vital.
Those with a family or personal history of colorectal cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease face increased risk. Lifestyle factors, such as high-fat diets, limited fruit and vegetable intake, excessive alcohol, and inactivity, are also significant contributors.
Facing a colorectal cancer diagnosis can be daunting, but as Constantino “Boy” Ortega and Maria Mae Palmero Villanueva discovered, early detection and expert care can lead to successful outcomes. Under the guidance of Dr. Manuel Francisco Roxas at Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH), their stories illustrate the power of proactive healthcare and the importance of trusting in high quality medical facilities.
Unfazed by colorectal cancer AFTER being diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma, Boy vowed that he would not allow the cancer to defeat him.
“I will not allow this sickness to affect my daily routine or my work.”
Rectal adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that develops in the gland cells of the rectum. It is the most common type of rectal cancer, accounting for about 95 percent of cases.
“ Nag-research ako tungkol sa colorectal cancer. Lumitaw dun yung pangalan ni Manuel Francisco Roxas. Siya yung na ni recommend sa akin na best oncologist. [I did some research on colorectal cancer. The name Manuel Francisco Roxas came up. He was recommended to me as the best oncologist.],” said Boy.
Dr. Roxas is a colorectal surgeon and is the Chief Operating Officer of HCCH. His expertise is rooted in extensive training at prestigious institutions both locally and internationally. He has pioneered minimally invasive colorectal surgery and multidisciplinary colorectal cancer programs in the country.
Boy consulted with Dr. Roxas and received treatment at HCCH, expressing satisfaction with the experience.
“Since it was newly inaugurated, newly opened, hindi siya crowded plus malinis, bago lang siya (It’s not crowded and it’s clean, plus it’s new.),” said Boy.
He shared that HCCH was the only place where he experienced having a patient navigator who regularly checked on him, monitored his condition, and reminded him of his treatment schedule.
After completing 28 sessions of radiation and chemotherapy, Boy achieved a successful outcome, with no further need for surgery.
He said he feels better now.
“ Para walang raw akong sakit, may nagsasabing ganun [I don’t look sick, that’s what they are saying],” said Boy.
Proactive care, key to early detection FOR Mae Villanueva, it is important to be diligent with annual checkups and heed doctors’ advice. She wanted to share her story to educate others so that they won’t wait until they feel something or have symptoms.
Mae related that during a routine checkup with her OB-GYN, she was advised to have an abdominal ultrasound, which revealed cysts near her uterus.
“So, I asked her, ‘Why do I have them when I no longer have a uterus or ovaries?’ She said we needed an MRI to confirm what they were. ‘Maybe it’s in your intestine,’ my doctor said,” Mae recalled.
The MRI confirmed cysts in her intestine. Mae was referred to Dr. Roxas and a colonoscopy was recommended. Dr. Roxas removed polyps during the colonoscopy, except for a large one, from which he took a tissue sample for biopsy.
It was the end of December, so Mae returned to Dr. Roxas after the holidays. While awaiting the biopsy results, she was recommended for CT and PET-CT scans at HCCH. The results confirmed that Mae had cancer.
Dr. Roxas recommended laparoscopic anterior resection, a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove a part of the colon affected by cancer or other diseases. It involves the use of a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera, and specialized instruments to perform the surgery through small incisions in the abdomen.
“He said, ‘We can do it here at HCCH, but you will be the first patient,’” Mae said.
She admitted initial hesitation but trusted Dr. Roxas and the hospital.
“In my work, we are very particular about quality standards. So, I trust that this hospital also adheres to them. So, I said yes,” Mae explained. Mae had the operation on February 2, 2024.
“Fortunately, I got the biopsy results two days later. It was stage one colorectal cancer. The doctor said I didn’t need chemotherapy,” she said.
“So far, everything is okay. And I hope it continues to be the same,” she added.
She was pleased with the care she received at the hospital and observed that the nurses were friendly and highly experienced. She also trusted Dr. Roxas’s team of experts.
Even after surgery, she felt well cared for by the nurses, who assisted with wound care and other needs, even helping her coordinate appointments.
“They are very helpful. They assist and reply to me promptly. Even booking my next appointment is easy. They are just a text away,” she said.
Screening and early detection
AS early colorectal cancer often lacks symptoms, prompt medical consultation is advised for any bowel changes, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, anemia, or bloody stools.
Medical experts stress that early detection enables effective treatment and
promotes a healthy lifestyle to reduce risk.
Individuals aged 45 and older are advised to undergo regular colorectal cancer screenings. These screenings may include the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), which detects blood in the stool—a potential indicator of
cancer—and a colonoscopy, a visual examination of the colon and rectum using a camera. Healthway Cancer Care Hospital is the Philippines’ first dedicated cancer care hospital, providing comprehensive and cuttingedge cancer treatment services to patients
across the country. For more information, please visit https://healthwaymedicalnetwork.com.ph/our-network/healthway-cancercare-hospital/, call (02) 7777 4673 or (02) 7777 HOPE or email cancercare@healthway. com.ph.
CONSTANTINO “BOY” ORTEGA and the staff of Healthway Cancer Care Hospital.
MARIA MAE PALMERO VILLANUEVA (third from left) with her husband and the staff of Healthway Cancer Care Hospital.
Group calls for more sleep centers, awareness of sleep disorders
By Rory Visco Contributor
THE Philippine Society for Sleep Medicine (PSSM), a professional organization of sleep experts in the Philippines with clinical training in the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders, is advocating for the establishment of more sleep centers in the country in order to address sleep conditions and other issues among Filipinos.
He said that at present, there are about 40 to 50 sleep centers in the country but are mostly concentrated in Metro Manila. According, to PSSM President Dr. Rodolfo Dizon, Jr., part of PSSM’s goals is to recognize these centers and to partner with them not only to ensure quality but also to lower the costs to make these sleep centers’ services more accessible to more Filipinos nationwide.
Dr. Dizon also cited the need to establish more training institutions on sleep conditions. “There are at least 10 to 15 training centers in the country like in the Lung Center of the Philippines and the Philippine Heart Center. We hope that in the future this number will increase,” he said. He also pointed out that the PSSM is also hopeful of the expansion of coverage that’s why the PSSM is lobbying for the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to include sleep diagnostics in PhilHealth coverage.
“Today, sleep diagnostics is somehow partly covered but there are certain conditions that have to be met. We’re really looking forward to have
a wider coverage from the government for sleep diagnostics,” Dr. Dizon pointed out during his talk titled “PSSM Primer and Overview of Sleep Health in the Philippines.”
Locally sourced data AMONG PSSM’s other objectives is to be able to provide more locally sourced data on sleep health and sleep apnea and not rely much on foreign data. This is needed, he said, so the government like the Department of Health (DOH) can craft appropriate policies so that the public becomes more aware of the perils of lack of quality sleep with regard to their health. He also pointed to the lack of enough sleep specialists in the country. “It is very easy to purchase the equipment needed but the concern here is the lack of sleep specialists who will be there to take care of the patient.
That’s why, for now, we’re pushing for a bigger budget to increase the number of sleep centers and corollary to that is to increase the number of sleep specialists in the country, which numbers to only about 82 at present. It’s a small number to cater to the sleep concerns of around 120 million Filipinos,” he emphasized.
The PSSM is also pushing for the passage of a piece of legislation to address sleep disorder in the country, particularly Senate Bill 2063 or the “Sleep Disorder Awareness and Education Act” authored by Senator Mark Villar. The proposed measure seeks to establish a sleep disorder awareness and education program, but Dr. Dizon said that it hit a small snag since sleep health concerns are
not a top priority nowadays. “But the PSSM remains hopeful that with a little more push, the bill will be passed in the next Congress.”
Costs of sleep testing
AC CORDING to Dr. Jimmy Chang, PSSM Vice President, the range of costs for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) testing and the range of testing involved depends on the hospital. In government hospitals, he said, the tests can cost around P15,000 to P20,000, but in private hospitals, it can go to as high as P55,000. But regardless of the costs, the concern is the long waiting time, which highlights the magnitude of the problem of sleep condition.
“We recognize the issue and as a society, we plan to advocate measures in order for our country to have the resources available to test and treat these patients. We acknowledge that there is this problem, that there is already awareness, and we have to be able to provide services to these patients as well. That is our direction, and we’re trying to get the government and other stakeholders to be involved in the issue. As a society, we can’t advocate for it without the support of other stakeholders and inform them to make sleep health a priority and allocate resources for people with sleep disorders.”
The value of sleep SL EEP is not about shutting our body’s down, according to Gerry Camacho, Sleep Business Marketing Group Head of Uratex Philippines. “It is about how our bodies and minds
recharge. We can probably relate to batteries that need to sleep to recharge. Regardless of age and socioeconomic status, one thing remains true: how we sleep impacts how we perform the next day.”
He said consumers recognize that knowing the importance of sleep, they are willing to invest in products that they know will give them a good one. They believe that good sleep is not just about feeling rested because it has a powerful impact on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being. “When we sleep well, we wake up energized. Sleep has a calming effect as well because it relieves stress and helps people manage emotions better.”
Citing Project Snooze, Acquisition Apps, Inc., Camacho explained that to get that perfect night’s sleep, there should be a comfortable mattress because it’s not just about lying down but about waking up without the aches. This is where a mattress with medium firmness is needed. An ideal sleep environment is also needed like quiet surroundings, blackout curtains and reduced screen time, cool room temperature, and proper ventilation. There should also be supportive pillows with just the right amount of softness and support.
Camacho said consumers are not necessarily looking for luxuries but only want functional comfort. “Bottomline, a well-rested mind leads to better focus, better productivity, and decision making. Sleep also retains an overall mindset. When we sleep well, we feel more positive, motivated, and in control.”
PCOM, MSD partner to strengthen cancer prevention in the workplace
THE Philippine College of Occupational Medicine (PCOM) and healthcare company MSD in the Philippines have joined forces to integrate cancer prevention into workplace health programs, reinforcing early detection and access to preventive healthcare for Filipino workers. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), the partnership will equip occupational health professionals with the tools and training needed to implement workplace-based cancer prevention initiatives nationwide.
Leading the signing were MSD representatives Andreas Riedel, President and Managing Director; Dr. Mary Ann Galang, Country Medical Lead; and Ethel Calma, Vaccines Business Unit Head, alongside PCOM board members led by President Dr. Anna Sofia Fajardo, Dr. Claire Miñoza, and Dr. Roselle Andres.
Dr. Fajardo emphasized the partnership’s significance in strengthening occupational health. “Our members are at the forefront of workplace health, and this collaboration with MSD enhances our efforts in cancer prevention. As government policies evolve to prioritize occupational
The
Thealth, PCOM remains committed to working with the Department of Health and the Department of Labor and Employment to implement meaningful workplace programs that protect workers from preventable diseases.”
Urgency RIEDEL highlighted the urgency of addressing workplace cancer risks. “Cancer remains a leading cause of death in the Philippines, with cervical cancer alone claiming 12 lives daily—despite being largely preventable. HPV vaccination can prevent up to 90 percent of cervical cancer cases and also protect against other cancers, including head and neck cancers. With the government’s push for stronger workplace health policies, this partnership expands access to life-saving prevention and early detection efforts.”
Beyond its devastating impact on individuals and families, cancer also affects businesses and the broader economy. Workplace health programs that prioritize prevention can reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and lower long-term healthcare costs. By integrating cancer prevention into occupational health standards,
companies can empower employees to take charge of their health while ensuring a healthier, more resilient workforce.
The collaboration between PCOM and MSD aligns with the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards, which emphasize preventive healthcare for workers.
“To create real change in cancer prevention, we must reach workers where they are,” Riedel noted. “With national policies prioritizing workplace health, this partnership ensures that more employees have access to preventive care, education, and early detection services.”
Early intervention
DR. Fajardo reinforced the importance of early intervention. “As we implement UHC, workplace health must be a priority. Strengthening education and access to preventive care in workplaces can significantly reduce the cancer burden and improve quality of life for Filipino workers.”
Moving forward, MSD and PCOM will roll out educational initiatives, training programs, and awareness campaigns to reinforce cancer prevention strategies in
workplaces across the country. These efforts will be implemented both nationally and through PCOM’s soon-to-beestablished regional chapters. The partnership will also include collaborations on key events, such as PCOM’s annual Congress and a dedicated symposium, to engage occupational health professionals and business leaders in workplace cancer prevention.
Riedel underscored the long-term vision of the partnership. “This is just the beginning. By working with PCOM and its nationwide network, we can help companies embed cancer prevention into their workplace health programs, ultimately improving the well-being of Filipino workers.”
Dr. Fajardo echoed this sentiment. “Our goal is to ensure that every worker, regardless of industry or location, has access to the information and resources they need to stay healthy. This partnership brings us closer to making that vision a reality.”
With this collaboration, PCOM and MSD are taking concrete steps toward a future where Filipino workers have greater access to cancer prevention resources, reinforcing the role of occupational health in saving lives.
secret link between hypertension and chronic kidney disease
HE start of every new year is a time for fresh starts and healthier habits. Yet, for millions of Filipinos chronic health conditions like hypertension and CKD or chronic kidney disease remain silent threats that require urgent attention. Hypertensive diseases were ranked as the fifth leading cause of death in the country in 2022. Hypertension occurs when blood pressure is persistently above normal. A variety of reasons can build to it, and some risk factors include being overweight, a high intake of salt, alcohol, and coffee, not eating enough fruits and vegetables, not getting enough exercise, smoking, and stress.
Hypertension continues to be a silent killer as early symptoms don’t appear or are misunderstood. The disease also heightens the risk for other problems, such as stroke, heart
complications, and, surprisingly, even CKD. According to Dr. Greta Cortez, Head of Medicine, Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc. “If conditions like hypertension are not managed properly the arteries around the kidneys can narrow, weaken or harden, which renders kidneys unable to receive oxygen and nutrients. This creates a cycle where extra fluid in the blood vessels can raise blood pressure, leading to more damage that may end in kidney failure.” CKD is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines. The National Kidney Transplant Institute revealed that one Filipino develops chronic renal failure every hour. That is estimated to be at least 2.3 million Filipinos currently diagnosed with CKD. Other recent projections, meanwhile, show that one in 10 Filipinos will develop this deadly disease.
Managing your blood pressure begins with small steps that can have significant effects.
Lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding smoking can contribute to healthy blood pressure. Transitioning to a well-balanced and heart-healthy diet can also help. A healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in alcohol and food high in salt, saturated fats, and added sugars. Additionally, it’s essential to get regular check-ups to monitor your health. Seeing a healthcare professional can alert you to changes in your blood pressure and can give you a better idea of where you stand so you can make changes when necessary.
“Hypertension and CKD are lifethreatening conditions that often go un -
PNP Batangas, St. Luke’s partner for policewomen’s health initiatives
By Vincent Peter Rivera
AS their way of honoring their dedication and strength, the Philippine National Police Batangas and St. Luke’s Medical Center joined forces this International Women’s Month to provide comprehensive health care services for the policewomen of Batangas.
Police Col. Jacinto R. Malinao Jr., Acting Provincial Director of Batangas Provincial Police Office (PPO), initiated this program to address the health concerns of the approximately 700 to 800 policewomen, who represent 20 percent of the total population of PNP Batangas.
“The public often see the police as men but there are critical aspects of policing run by policewomen. They are our intelligence analysts, operations officers, they do the planning and at the same time, they too have their own health concerns,” Col. Malinao said.
“I want my personnel to be physically, mentally, and emotionally ready,” he continued. “Especially in the forthcoming 2025 Midterm National Elections, emotions are high, temperatures are high and are expected to be higher. So, critical situations come in. I want to make sure my police officers can handle situations like this.”
Wellness program WITH a theme, “Fit to Serve: A Physical and Mental Wellness Program for Batangueñong Pulis in collaboration with St. Luke’s Medical Center,” Col. Malinao personally sought St. Luke’s Medical Center’s expert and professional medical help to properly execute his commitment of reinforcing a holistic health approach to the PNP Batangas workforce.
“This is just a simple way of St. Luke’s to give back to the community. We’re doing this partnership to support our public servants, especially the PNP who are 24-7 protecting us and it’s a simple way of saying ‘thank you’ and appreciating all the efforts that they’re doing to our country,” said Virginia M. Flores, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of St. Luke’s Medical Center, on accepting their vital role in helping the Batangas Police Women.
Weeks prior to the event, Flores together with the medical institution’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and lactation experts, joined Col. Malinao’s visit to San Juan, Batangas to help 650 pregnant women in accessing professional help
and preventive care.
Blood donation drive THE event happened on March 24 and 25, 2025 at South Peak Garden & Events Place Brgy. Banaba, Batangas City and St. Luke’s provided primary medical services among Batangas policewomen including the blood donation drive which attracted 171 police personnel.
Meanwhile, the second day offered health talks and wellness discussions from medical professionals including Managing Stress and Emotional WellBeing by Dr. Richthofen De Jesus, Licensed Psychologist, Clinical and Industrial Psychology Specialist; Preventing Heart Disease and Maintaining Cardiovascular Wellness by Dr. Samantha Delgado, Board-Certified Cardiologist, Echocardiography Specialist; Eating Right for a Healthier Lifestyle by Kassandra Cerio, Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian, Assistant Diabetes Educator; and Proper Oral Hygiene and Common Issues by Dr. Ralph Figaroa Delas Alas, President of Urban Smiles Dental Clinic.
After the insightful talks, St. Luke’s, in partnership with Urban Smiles, opened a dental mission area called, “Project Share a Smile” along with other health and wellness booths like the Initial Health Assessment, Blood Pressure and Vital Signs Check, Body Mass Index (BMI Screening), Random Blood Sugar Checking, Personalize Nutrition Counseling, and Distribution of Prescribed Vitamins.
“We conducted screening for diabetes, hypertension, and we also have some nurses for nutrition counseling. We do have around more or less, close to 10 doctors. And then, we have a partner, Urban Smile, with 15 to 20 dentists. Plus, we have 12 nurses with us for nutritional counseling,” Flores added.
Although these health care initiatives are currently limited to a specific timeframe and are inclusive within the Batangas region, Police Colonel Malinao Jr. intends to leverage the outcomes of this program to inform future workforce improvements. He expressed hope that similar initiatives could eventually be implemented on a broader scale or across a wider geographical area.
“This will be a very important data for us, this will have a ripple effect later on when it comes to our training, tour of duty, and it can be a basis to our annual physical examination in PNP,” Police Colonel Malinao Jr. concluded.
Coughing for 2 weeks? Get yourself checked for TB
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
VERY year, March 24 is observed as World
ETuberculosis (TB) Day. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) TB is an infectious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
TB most commonly affects the lungs, when it is called pulmonary tuberculosis, but also can involve any other organ of the body in which case it is called extra-pulmonary tuberculosis.
The Department of Health said that if a person is already coughing for two weeks, then it is time to consult a doctor.
noticed—but early detection and proper management can save lives. At Boehringer, we aim to improve the lives of people living with interconnected cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic (CRM) diseases through innovative and people-centric solutions. One of the best ways is to get yourself checked,” added Dr. Cortez.
In celebration of World Kidney Day this March, Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines emphasizes that taking small, consistent steps today can lead to a healthier tomorrow, such as getting checked for chronic kidney disease. Let 2025 be the year to protect your kidneys, care for your heart, and start living your best life.
To learn more about chronic kidney disease and how to get checked, go to https:// itstartswithyou.com.ph.
“ Magpakonsulta agad kung dalawang linggo na ang ubo. May gamot diyan [Have yourself checked if you have been coughing for two weeks. There are medicines for that.],” the DOH said.
How TB spreads
TB is spread primarily from person to person through infected air during close contact.
The bacteria get into the air when someone infected with TB of the lung coughs, sneezes, shouts, or spits.
A person can become infected when they inhale minute particles of the infected sputum from the air. It is not possible to get TB by just touching the clothes or shaking the hand of someone who is infected.
TB germs spread more easily in crowded conditions as the bacteria sometimes stays alive in the air for a few hours, especially in small, closed places with no fresh air. F resh air scatters the germs and sunlight
acts as a bactericide, killing the TB organisms. Exposure to moderately hot temperatures for extended periods of time is sufficient to kill these bacteria. Extra-pulmonary TB does not spread from person to person. Protecting others
The DOH advised that once infected with TB and while resting at home, the person can do the following things to protect the others near you:
Take
&Fitness
MakatiMed Earns Philippines’ First JCI 8th Edition Accreditation
AKATI Medical Center
M(MakatiMed) successfully concluded its 5th accreditation survey last February 17 to 21, 2025. It is the first hospital in the Philippines to be accredited under the Joint Commission International (JCI) 8th Edition Accreditation Standards.
This latest edition sets a higher benchmark for quality and patient safety, focusing on risk reduction strategies, data-driven performance improvement, and an enhanced emphasis on patient-centered care.
JCI surveyors conducted a thorough assessment of MakatiMed’s systems, procedures, and patient care protocols. They commended the hospital for its best practices, outstanding commit -
ment to quality, and dedication to patient safety, and also provided valuable recommendations and insights to further enhance operational excellence.
Dr. Saturnino P. Javier, MakatiMed Interim Co-President and CEO and Medical Director, expressed his profound gratitude to all divisions and personnel who played a role in preparing for and executing the survey.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire MakatiMed community…[W]e are proud of the strides we have made in strengthening our systems and ensuring that patient care remains our top priority,” Dr. Javier stated.
An independent, not-for-profit organization, the JCI identifies,
measures and shares best practices in quality and patient safety around the world. The institution provides leadership and innovative solutions to help healthcare organizations across all settings improve performance and outcomes.
JCI is committed to keep peace with the dynamics of global health care while remaining the standard bearer for The Gold Seal of Approval, a universally recognized symbol of quality and patient safety.
More than 1,000 healthcare organizations in over 70 countries have achieved the Gold Seal of Approval as JCI-accredited organizations. In the Philippines, MakatiMed is one of seven hospitals that are JCI accredited. The other institutions are Asian Hospital and Medical Center, St. Luke’s Medical Center–Global City, St. Luke’s Medical Center–Quezon City, The Medical City, The Medical City Clark and MyHealth Clinic Shangri-La.
BRAINIAC: CLASH OF THE SCI-TECH CHAMPS 2025 CONCLUDES WITH ROBOTICS CHALLENGE
THE third year of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital’s “Brainiac: Clash of the SciTech Champs” culminated in an exciting Robotics Challenge on March 8, 2025, at De La Salle Santiago Zobel School (DLSZ).
This initiative, in partnership with the Department of Education—NCR (DepEd NCR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and DLSZ, brought together over 250 students from across the National Capital Rection to showcase their technical skills and creativity in applying robotics to healthcare solutions.
The competition featured two main events: the “Line Tracing Challenge,” where participants programmed robots to navigate an obstacle course, and the “Group Categories,” where teams developed and presented innovative healthcare-related robotics projects.
In the “Line Tracing Challenge,” Senator Renato “Compañero” Cayetano Memorial Science and Technology High School and Manuel G. Araullo High School emerged as champions. For the “Group Categories,” Ramon Magsaysay Cubao High School won the entry-level category with their project “BedSure: A Smart Solution for Preventing Bedsores using Arduino Integrated IoT.”
Meanwhile, Philippine Science High School dominated the advanced-level category with “AsthmAlert,” which also received the “BIDA Lourdes Best Robotics Project” for being the most promising
healthcare-focused innovation project.
The Robotics Challenge was introduced as a new component of Brainiac in 2024, complementing the long-standing quiz bowl. In just three years, it has grown into a platform that not only strengthens STEM education but also encourages young innovators from the grade school to high school level to develop technology-driven solutions for realworld healthcare challenges.
As “Brainiac: Clash of the Sci-Tech Champs” continues to grow, so do the students who take on the challenge and the educators who guide them. Each year, new talents emerge, while seasoned competitors push their limits to stay ahead. Their dedication and passion not only drive the competition forward but also pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for the Philippines.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH INNOVATION, COLLABORATION, EXCELLENCE
IT has been a busy past few months for Asian Hospital and Medical Center as it introduced a cuttingedge radiotherapy machine that will set new standards in cancer care.
The hospital also launched the Clinical Trials and Research Ethics Center, entered into partnerships with Shinagawa Healthcare Solutions and the University of Santo Tomas, organized a Dental Medicine Fair, and celebrated Women’s Month with an exhibit.
CyberKnife MOA Signing
ASIAN Hospital has started a monthlong undertaking to finally seal the deal for the Cyberknife S7. This was triggered with the signing of the contract between Asian Hospital, represented by President and CEO Dr. Beaver Tamesis and Program Director for the Asian Cancer Institute Dr. Corazon Ngelangel and Transmedic President and CEO Kristine James and Country Head Vanessa Ambagan.
“This will be a game changer for both the Philippines and Asian Hospital, significantly improving patients’ lives. It dramatically reduces the risks of side effects and also reduces the treatment time and treatment length,” James said.
The CyberKnife S7 is a groundbreaking radiotherapy machine dedicated to stereotactic radiation treatment. It is a non-invasive mode of treatment designed for both cancerous and non-cancerous tumors, as well as other medical conditions requiring radiation therapy. Unlike conventional radiotherapy systems, CyberKnife delivers precise and accurate treatments, reducing damage to healthy tissues and minimizing side effects.
The machine is highly versatile and effective in targeting a wide range of cancers, including but not limited to brain lesions, lung cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, pediatric cancer, spinal tumors, head and neck cancer, pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, and oligometastasis or cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
It is a highly precise radiation therapy that effectively targets tu
mors while sparing healthy
effects, making it an excellent option for hard-to-reach tumors and patients who are not candidates for surgery or traditional radiation therapy.
“After all the bumps along the way, we’re finally here. It’s been a wonderful outcome of such a long journey, but we’re here. I’m very happy to celebrate this with our team from Transmedic,” Dr. Tamesis said.
Clinical Trials and Research Ethics Center Inauguration
AS part of its commitment to advancing healthcare research and promoting ethical standards in clinical trials, Asian Hospital has inaugurated the Clinical Trials and Research Ethics Center.
The event was graced by Asian Hospital’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Carmen Nievera, with messages delivered by Dr. Jose M. Acuin and Dr. Charles Yu. The center is dedicated to promoting ethical practices in clinical care and research, adhering to both local and international standards. Clinical trials, as defined by the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) Guidelines for Good Clinical Practice, are investigations in human subjects intended to discover or verify the
clinical, pharmacological, and/or other pharmacodynamic effects of an investigational product(s). These trials also aim to identify any adverse reactions to an investigational product(s) and study the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the product(s) to ascertain its safety and/or efficacy.
Shinagawa MOA Signing
ASIAN Hospital and Shinagawa Healthcare Solutions Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Agreement for Asian Hospital’s Hospital Engagement and Alliance Linkage (HEAL) Program, a strategic partnership aimed at fostering collaborations, sharing expertise, and enhancing the delivery of high-quality healthcare services.
This alliance highlights Asian Hospital’s dedication to extending its world-class medical standards and exceptional patient care excellence beyond its walls, ensuring that even more communities benefit from its innovative healthcare solutions.
The hospital was represented by Dr. Tamesis, Dr. Nievera, and Director for Marketing and Patient Experience Hennesy Miranda. Shinagawa Healthcare Solutions Corporation was
represented by its President Masako Uemori and Associate Director Leynard D. Vendiola. Both institutions share a common vision of providing the highest quality of care at a reasonable cost to their patients and the community.
UST MOA Signing
ASIAN Hospital held another MOA signing, this time with the University of Santo Tomas, aiming to provide Senior High School Allied Health students with immersive, hands-on experience in a hospital setting, bridging academic learning with real-world healthcare practices. Representing Asian Hospital at the MOA signing was Dr. Tamesis, while UST was represented by Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Cheryl R. Peralta, DrPH. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Asian Hospital Director for Nursing Dr. Carolina P. Buhain; Asian Hospital Nursing Fundamentals Head Fides Adiviso, PhDN, MAN, RN; UST High School Principal Associate Professor Mary Erika N. Bolaños, LPT, PhD. Also in attendance were School Secretary Hazel A. Misola, LPT, MBA, and Chair of the Health Allied Strand John Ismael Medina, RPm, LPT, RPsy.
This collaboration highlights both institutions’ commitment to excellence in healthcare education, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and exposure necessary to excel in the medical field.
Dental Medicine Fair
THE Asian Hospital Dental Medicine Fair 2025 was held at the Main Lobby and offered a range of delicious and healthy options from partners and exhibitors. There were also interactive and educational booths for visitors to explore. As part of Dental Medicine Week, the Asian Hospital Department of Dental Medicine, under the leadership of Dr. Peachy Tala-Sunico and in collaboration with Asian Charities Inc., hosted a special movie screening at the Marillac Hills National Training School for Girls as part of its commitment to promoting oral health and community service. The Department of Dental Medicine at Asian Hospital and Medical Center also hosted a workshop titled “Tooth Lightening and Laser
Celebrating Women Leaders Breaking Barriers TO
Regenerative medicine is no longer just for the elite, says medical expert
By John Eiron R. Francisco
FILIPINOS have become increasingly open to regenerative medicine, a field that uses techniques like stem cell therapy to help the body repair or replace damaged cells and tissues. However, a medical expert emphasizes the need to clear up misconceptions, as “stem cell treatments are often viewed as a buzzword linked only to the wealthy, celebrities, and politicians.”
Dr. Christian Jacob Del Rosario, CEO of Tulsi Wellness Club, told B usiness M irror that while many Filipinos seek regenerative treatments, they often look abroad, traveling to countries like Germany, Switzerland, and Singapore. He explained that although stem cell therapy is frequently seen as a buzzword linked to the elite, it has actually been around for over 40 years and was once primarily accessible to the rich.
Through Tulsi Wellness Club, which originated in Del Mar, California, and has recently expanded with a flagship location in partnership with The Farm at San Benito, a medical wellness resort in Lipa, Batangas, Dr. Del Rosario aims to make regenerative medicine more accessible to a broader market.
“People think stem cells are only for rich people. But at this point, it shouldn’t be seen as an exclusive treatment only for the wealthy to live longer,” Dr. Del Rosario said.
Asked how they plan to make regenerative medicine accessible to people from all income levels, Dr. Del Rosario said the key is promoting a proactive, preventive approach to healthcare.
Treating the root cause
HE explained that by focusing on identifying and treating the root causes of diseases, rather
than just managing symptoms, they can create a more effective and sustainable model.
He added that by leading industry research, setting new standards of care, and building multidisciplinary medical teams, they aim to establish a long-term, universal healthcare system that can be applied across the Philippines.
“It’s really an approach to healthcare that I want to make accessible, moving away from a reactive model and treating people holistically: addressing mental health, emotional health, physical health, and spiritual health,” he said, adding that all these different aspects of wellness are interconnected, and the approach must be dynamic.
“As human beings, we’re complex. So, this is the healthcare model I want to ensure is accessible to those who truly need it. It’s not necessarily just for the wealthy—it’s about shifting the mindset in how we approach healthcare,” he added.
Inspired to help
DR. Marian Alonzo, Medical Chief of The Farm at San Benito, shared that some patients who can afford regenerative treatments often become inspired to help others after experiencing the benefits themselves. She explained that instead of spending on lavish celebrations, some choose to invest in their loved ones’ health.
“For instance, if their mother is turning 75, rather than throwing a big party, they prefer to fund treatments that can improve her well-being,” Dr. Alonzo said. She added that this generosity sometimes extends beyond their families. Patients occasionally ask if they can sponsor individuals who would benefit from the treatments but lack the financial means.
To support this, The Farm also integrates charitable initiatives into its operations. Dr. Alonzo explained that a portion of the clinic’s proceeds is allocated to medical missions and programs that assist local government units (LGUs) with underfunded hospitals.
“This business model allows us to generate funding that goes toward helping those who truly need this type of care,” she said.
Detox first
ALTHOUGH Dr. Alonzo emphasized that regenerative medicine is not limited to expensive, high-tech treatments. She explained that they meet people where they are, regardless of their budget or reservations.
“Regenerative medicine doesn’t have to start with the most advanced autologous therapies that Tulsi offers. It can be as simple as detoxing first then gradually opening up to other treatments,” she said.
Dr. Del Rosario added that the essence of regenerative medicine is giving the body exactly what it needs to achieve its healthiest state. This can be through lifestyle changes, community support, or medical interventions. He described it as a new approach to healthcare that focuses on treating and reversing chronic diseases while also reshaping how people view aging.
“This is really about aging gracefully,” Dr. Del Rosario said. He emphasized that while aging is a natural part of life, regenerative medicine can help prevent accelerated aging caused by modern lifestyles. Factors such as constant exposure to screens, fast-paced living, and stress can speed up cellular damage, making people age faster than they should.
He added that promoting this wellness lifestyle involves education and awareness, which will take time to fully resonate
with people. However, he believes that by showcasing the benefits of regenerative medicine, it has the potential to transform healthcare, making proactive and restorative treatments more widely understood and accessible.
‘Healing from within’
MEANWHILE, Dr. Del Rosario believes the Philippines is now in a strong position to redefine how regenerative medicine is practiced and make it more accessible. Having worked directly with top labs and clinics in the US that are leading this industry, he highlighted the immense potential of regenerative medicine and longevity therapies.
“The ability of regenerative medicine to reverse or slow down the progression of diseases is actually immense,” he said, citing successful cases in the US where patients with heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease have benefited from these treatments.
Dr. Del Rosario also pointed to a rising trend in biohacking and longevity, which combines medical knowledge with innovative therapies to enhance the body’s natural healing capabilities.
He explained that the human body is naturally intelligent and capable of self-repair, but treatments like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, infrared (IR) saunas, Vital Dome, and Colemma can enhance the body’s healing process at a cellular level.
“At the end of the day, the body knows exactly what to do. By combining different therapies, we can essentially “biohack” it, optimizing its performance and overall health,” he said.
Biohacking
DR. Alonzo echoed this, adding that while
biohacking is a growing trend, mental health plays a crucial role in regenerative medicine.
She pointed out that 90 percent of chronic illnesses have underlying mental health factors. By addressing mental well-being alongside physical health, regenerative medicine can better target the root causes of diseases.
“I’d also like to add to that. Mental health used to be taboo. No one really wanted to talk about it. You would be frowned upon, especially in Filipino culture,” Dr. Del Rosario said. However, he noted that people are now becoming more open to conversations about feelings and recognizing the link between mental and physical health.
He explained that the way people think directly impacts their behavior and physical health. For example, stress and negative emotions can affect digestion (known as the mind-gut connection) or lead to other health issues. As awareness around mental health grows, it is opening doors to new treatments that consider both the mind and body.
“We’re now understanding that everything starts in the mind, whether it’s your lifestyle, your actions, or even your mental and emotional state leading up to chronic disease,” Dr. Del Rosario said.
Dr. Alonzo highlighted another growing trend: blending ancient healing practices with modern science. She shared a childhood memory of being told that taking cold showers would make her smarter—a common belief among older generations.
“Growing up in Baguio, that was a real challenge,” she joked.
But she explained that science now supports this old practice. Research shows that cold shock proteins, released when the body is exposed to cold, can help reset the body and improve health.
Dr. Alonzo emphasized that many traditional remedies once dismissed as myths or superstitions are now being backed by scientific studies, proving that the wisdom of older generations often holds real health benefits.
‘Unlocking the secrets to longevity’
TULSI Wellness Club at The Farm offers a range of advanced treatments aimed at promoting health and slowing down the aging process. Its flagship service, the Longevity Program, is a three-day wellness experience designed to revitalize the body at a cellular level. The program uses modern diagnostic tools, regenerative medicine, and proven wellness practices to boost overall well-being and restore vitality. In addition to the Longevity Program, Tulsi provides various cutting-edge therapies. Stem cell therapy uses specialized cells to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and improve cell function, helping to slow aging and support long-term health. Peptide therapy, which involves specific proteins, enhances hormone balance, speeds up tissue recovery, and supports metabolism. This treatment is commonly used for fat loss, muscle repair, and improved physical performance.
Tulsi also offers NAD+ therapy, an IV treatment that restores cellular energy, promotes DNA repair, and reduces fatigue. It also boosts mental clarity and helps slow the aging process. Meanwhile, hormone therapy focuses on balancing key hormones, such as thyroid, cortisol, and reproductive hormones, to address issues like fatigue, weight gain, and overall hormonal imbalances.
Elevating your Beauty routine with these devices available at SM Beauty at SM Makati
THE month of March is Women’s Month and it’s a time for all you ladies out there to celebrate strength, confidence and the power of self-care. In today’s fast-paced world, beauty is no longer just about looking good; it’s about feeling confident, taking control and embracing self-care as an act of empowerment.
With the right tools, achieving radiant skin, salon-quality hair and flawless makeup is no longer reserved for professionals. Thanks to the range of innovative beauty devices available at SM Beauty at SM Makati, you can bring expert-level treatments right into the comfort of your own home.
Technology has transformed the beauty industry, making it easier than ever to achieve professional results. From hightech skincare tools to advanced hair styling gadgets, SM Beauty offers a curated selection of devices designed to elevate your routine and enhance your natural beauty.
The Luxelle RF Wand is an absolute must for anyone who wants firmer and fresher looking skin. Using advanced radio frequencies, the wand heats the deepest layers of the skin which enhances the natural production of collagen. It is a non-invasive skin tightening and lifting tool that can activate cells thoroughly and improves overall skin texture. If you are looking for a tool that can help you liven up your eye and lip area, there’s the Luxelle Eye and Lip Pen. It’s a five-
