THE declaration of the Parisbased Financial Action Task Force (FATF) that the country is inching closer to its exit from the grey list as it has met its deficiencies bodes well for the Philippines’s economy.
Last Friday, FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo said a site visit will be conducted to affirm the country’s progress and to decide on its exit from the grey list. The visit will take place between now and February 2025. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/10/26/amlc-phl-movescloser-to-exiting-fatf-grey-list/).
Jonathan Ravelas, senior adviser at professional services firm Reyes Tacandong & Co. told the BusinessMirror that a favorable assessment from FATF would im -
prove the country’s economic and investment prospects.
“It’s promising news that the country has addressed all its deficiencies. The upcoming site visit by the FATF team is a crucial step in confirming these improvements. If the assessment is positive, there’s a strong possibility that we will finally exit the grey list,” Ravelas said. The country’s international reputation will improve if it exits from the grey list, he said. This will, in turn, lead to increased foreign investment interest.
He said foreign investors prefer to do businesses in “stable and compliant environments” which includes a country’s exclusion from the FATF grey list.
Apart from businesses, Filipinos
would enjoy lower costs for their financial transactions. This will become possible because financial institutions may see lower compliance costs as they face less scrutiny from international counterparts.
Overall, these factors can contribute to stronger economic growth, as increased investment and lower transaction costs can stimulate various sectors of the economy,” Ravelas said.
E arlier, University of Santo Tomas Research Center for Social Sciences and Education (RCSSED) Director Jeremaiah M. Opiniano told the BusinessMirror that there are host countries that have been on guard when it comes to their transactions with countries in the FATF watchlist.
Some include banks in the United Kingdom which have asked for more documentation for money being sent to the Philippines. He added that in Korea, there are reports indicating that Filipinos there applying for simple debit cards were asked to produce additional documentation to make cross-border payments. The FATF flagged the country for supposed inadequacies in the effectiveness of the targeted financial sanctions framework (TFS) for both terrorism financing and proliferation financing.
L anding on the FATF grey list does not automatically result in sanctions kicking in but could cause
BusinessMirror
GOVT BORROWINGS JUMP FOURFOLD IN SEPTEMBER
By Cai U. Ordinario
Tpercent to P347.425 billion in September 2024 from P84.578 billion in September 2023. Figures from the agency also indicated that government borrowings in January to September reached P1.875 trillion. This was 12.866 percent higher than the P1.66 trillion in the same period last year.
Borrowings in the month of September alone consisted of P202.312 billion in external debts, while domestic debts accounted for P145.113 billion.
BTr data showed net external borrowings surged 2,801.46 percent from the previous year’s level. The amount saw the removal of P19.671 billion worth of payments.
Gross external borrowings during the month reached P221.983 billion. This is composed of P140.988 billion worth of global bonds; P72.65 billion in program loans; and P8.345 billion in project loans.
Net domestic borrowings in September 2024, meanwhile, grew 57.62 percent from P92.067 billion in September 2023. This was despite the P148.883 billion worth of amortization payments.
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor
“
TBy Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
HE government should provide continuous support to local car manufacturers to ensure their viability as competition in the global auto market is heating up, according to the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi).
Campi President Rommel Gutierrez said auto makers have expressed the hope programs such as the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) will continue.
We want the CARS program to continue. Because, again, we still need the support of government for
local manufacturing especially since CBUs [completely built-up units] have flooded the local market and they are very competitive,” Gutierrez told reporters on the sidelines of the 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) last week.
For example, we have the [Toyota] Tamaraw. This is locally produced so we need to keep supporting it,” he added.
Gutierrez also said local auto makers have informed the government that CARS is a good program.
So, if you need to extend or even come up with a new support program, we would prefer something
See “Campi,” A2
See “FATF,” A2
See “Pinoys,” A2
BTr data also showed that gross domestic borrowings reached P145.2 billion in September, a 57.71 percent growth from the P92.067 billion posted in September 2023. D omestic borrowings included P25.2 billion in net treasury bills and P120 billion worth of Fixed Rate Treasury Bonds.
L ast week, the BTr managed to raise P20 billion on Monday’s auction. It made a full award of P20 billion worth of T-bills from 91-day, 182-day and 364-day debt papers.
Th is was despite average yields for short-term government securities having risen across the board.
Th e average interest rate for the 91-day tenor jerked by 1.9 basis points to 5.463 percent from 5.444 percent in the previous auction on October 14. Yields were as low as 5.398 percent to as high as 5.549 percent.
I n October, the Treasury will borrow P145 billion from the domestic debt market, generating P100 billion through T-bills and P45 billion from Treasury bonds (T-bonds).
The government will raise P2.570 trillion this year, following a mix of 75:25, of which P1.923 trillion will be raised domestically while P646.084 billion will come from foreign sources.
Government borrowings amounted to P1.933 trillion as of end-August 2024, according to the Treasury.
COMP: Mining fiscal reform to lure foreign investments
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
FOREIGN investors are expected to flock to the Philippines once a bill that seeks to reform the current mining fiscal regime is passed by Congress, according to the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP).
I was told by the Congressional leadership that [the bill] will be passed before the year ends and I think we’re looking at November because by December they will adjourn,” COMP Chairman Michael T. Toledo told reporters on the sidelines of the 13th Arangkada Forum last week. The bill has been approved by the House of Representatives. It is currently pending before the Senate. We’re hoping it will be passed [soon],” he added. F or his part, Senate President Francis Escudero said at the 13th Arangkada Forum that senators are targeting to pass two measures during the remaining session days of Congress.
We are looking to pass the following measures: first and foremost
is the budget for next year. Second will be the mining fiscal regime amendment insofar as the amendments approved by LEDAC [Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council] is concerned,” he said.
Toledo said that both foreign and domestic investors are awaiting the passage of the mining fiscal reform bill.
The investors will always tell us that [our] laws always change and that [our] fiscal regime is unclear; there seems to be no transparency or [the government] is flip-flopping on policies,” he added.
With a law that will clearly define and govern the rights of all stakeholders in the mining industry, the Philippines will be able to attract more investors, according to Toledo.
He also noted that the current version of the bill already incorporates the suggestions of COMP, inputs from the Department of Finance, Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and other stakeholders.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently called on Congress to finally pass the bill simplifying the mining fiscal regime to help the country generate more revenue and “become a leader in responsible mining.”
The Department of Environment Natural Resources (DENR) said the Philippines is among the countries which can benefit from the energy transition due to its rich deposits of minerals needed for green technology such as copper and nickel.
“And in the emerging landscape, our country’s abundant resources place us in a prime position to lead the way [in responsible mining],” Marcos said. “But to truly harness this potential, we must invest in the infrastructure and the technology required to process these minerals domestically.”
“I urge all our dedicated agencies and esteemed members of Congress to support the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime. This crucial
bill, which I highlighted in my 2023 SONA [State of the Nation Address], is fundamental to creating a fair and equitable mining environment for everyone involved,” he added. The proposed amendments to the current mining fiscal regime is one of the priority bills of Ledac. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/10/17/marcos-asks-congress-to-amend-mining-law/). At a recent Investment Policy Forum, International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) Vice President Nathalie Bernasconi-Osterwalder said there is “a fierce competition” in trade and access to natural resources, including the minerals needed for energy transition.
Osterwalder said the ongoing race for natural resources in the global arena should prompt countries to revisit their investment policy frameworks. She noted that countries such as China, India and Western economies are competing to ensure they have access to critical minerals which are present in Asia, Latin America and Africa which are considered to have the “biggest copper, nickel and lithium deposits.” (Full story here: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2024/10/18/ geopolitical-risks-sparking-racefor-natural-resources/).
prolonged procedures in some financial transactions which could affect not only Filipinos traveling abroad but also Overseas Filipino workers and migrants. The interagency task force adopted an action plan to exit the FATF grey list. On 4 July 2023, Malacanang issued Executive Order No. 33 requiring all government offices and departments that are part of the National Anti-Money Laundering/Countering of Financing of Terrorism Coordinating Committee (NACC) to adopt the National Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorism Financing, and Counter-Proliferation Financing Strategy (NACS) 2023-2027. To emphasize the urgency of the strategy, the Palace also released Memorandum Circular No. 37 last October 16, 2023, to accelerate the NACS implementation, followed by a directive from President Marcos on last January 2 for the NACC member agencies to complete the remaining FATF action items by year-end 2024.
the University of the PhilippinesBonifacio Global City.
And these are addressing different aspects we were talking earlier about. You know the different levels of AI sophistication maybe also depend on the knowledge base where it’s getting updated. We need to recognize also that there’s a tier of AI capabilities that should be made available for different domains and for different applications,” Paringit added.
W hile this may be “a Herculean undertaking,” he said this is “a dream that the Philippines must aspire for.”
Paringit also said there is a need to develop a Filipino-centric AI tool that can relate to the ordinary Filipino.
Dr. Rigoberto Advincula, Governor’s Chair Professor, Tickle College of Engineering, University of Tennessee, said the country can harness the benefits of the advances on software, computing or accessibility to ChatGPT.
Nevertheless, Advincula stressed the country needs to develop more homegrown experts to promote the widespread use of AI. “And perhaps we need to inject it early in the curriculum, early to try to develop future scientists.”
He said it is important to develop the country’s human capacity development and people infrastructure to develop the country’s AI infrastructure.
The interest in science, or competency, aptitude in technical subjects, mathematics and physics should be promoted. If we start at the university level, it might be too late,” he said.
We need to pique the interest of and engage the youth on AI
whether it would be contributing data or even developing certain applications, and make the tools accessible for them,” he added.
A dvincula said there are lots of tools, such as advanced software machines, that could teach children the computing languages.
If they can start making Python, programming, scripting, use Arduino for robotics, things like that, they would be equipped properly with the right tools when they go to college. And that’s really a vision that must permeate society,” he added.
D r. Franz de Leon, director of the Advanced Science and Technology Institute said the current generation of children, who are considered digital natives, are very adept in technology. “So I’m sure if you could do something, some intervention, to really engage them right from the start, not just leading to AI, but of course, leading to sciencebased decisions.”
A ngelo Jimenez, president of the University of the Philippines, said the country needs to focus on its primary growth drivers, such as electronics and agriculture to make them more competitive.
Jimenez said the academe needs to “hit the ground running” and translate the discussions into actual adoption or implementation of AI. There are lots of technologies being developed. It has been developed already in the country, and probably they could get better in the assimilation of those technologies if they know which technologies exist and they cannot afford,” he said.
like CARS,” Gutierrez said, adding that the said program has set specific targets that the government and the private sector must meet. The CARS program is a government stimulus program that aims to revive the country’s declining manufacturing sector by specifically targeting the automotive industry, given its strong linkages to other industries and its so-called multiplier effect. According to Executive Order 182 issued by the late President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2015, brands participating in the program should produce at least 200,000 vehicles per enrolled model within six years to qualify for fiscal support from the government. Toyota and Mitsubishi enrolled Vios and Mirage, respectively, in the incentives program. The Board of Investments (BOI) earlier noted that Mitsubishi started its production in February 2018 while Toyota started in July 2018. In May 2023, the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) said in a statement that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. greenlight the 5-year extension of the CARS program.
“ The extension of CARS for 5 years will continue to provide incentives and support for manufacturers that meet specific requirements in terms of investment, production, and technology development,” said PSAC in May 2023.
Data from Asean Automotive Federation (AAF) indicated that among the six countries in Asean, Philippines ranked second to the last, or fifth in terms of vehicles produced. In January to July period, Thailand led the pack as it produced 886,069 vehicle units. This was followed by Indonesia, with 671,311 cars produced; Malaysia, with 462,347 units; and Vietnam, 86,173 units. The Philippines and Myanmar produced 75,644 units and 1,352 units, respectively.
F or the Cordillera, it reduces wind field strength in Northern and Central Luzon, but it also channels rainfall around its slopes. Ultimately, researchers urged that relying on mountains alone as mere barriers against typhoons might foster a false sense of security.
“ In my opinion, it’s time to shift the conversation from ‘protecting the mountains because they weaken typhoons’ to ‘protecting what these mountains house and represent’: flora, fauna, culture and communities. These are the ones that can ultimately help protect us from different (tropical cyclone)related hazards,” Racoma added.
Kristine casualty count up: 90 dead, 71 injured
THE casualty count of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine continues to rise, with a total of 90 persons killed, 71 injured and 36 others reported missing so far, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said.
The agency however is still verifying reports coming from various affected regions.
As this developed the Philippines is bracing for more heavy rains ahead as another severe weather disturbance entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Saturday night, and is threatening to induce heavy rains in Central and Northern Luzon in the next few days.
Kristine has left a swath of death and destruction, with the Bicol being the hardest hit region; and with Ondoy-level heavy rainfall and unprecedented floodings that submerged many low-lying areas in Luzon.
Malacañang: Systems in place
PRESIDENT Marcos has released around P130 million worth of aid to areas in Bicol affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO), in a statement
on Sunday, said the president has assured “systems are in place” to help Bicolanos affected by the storm. “ Mayroon tayong sistema para tulungan lahat ng mga naging biktima . And all of that is in place,” Marcos said.
At a situation briefing at the Naga City Hall over the weekend, Marcos released these funds to government officials of Albay, Naga City and Camarines Sur.
“He released P50 million to Acting Albay Governor Glenda Ong-Bongao and P30 million to Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion from the Office of the President. Another P50 million was extended for the government of Camarines Sur,” the PCO said in a statement on Sunday.
“ Iyong mga food packs, ang mga hygiene kit, na -in place lahat iyan Sapat naman ang ating supply so far,” the Chief Executive said. The Palace said Marcos ordered all relevant government agencies to ensure all affected residents receive the needed assistance.
For one, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured Marcos they have sufficient food packs and other forms of aid.
“Distribution of financial assistance will follow after the distribu -
tion of food packs,” the Palace noted in its statement.
Meanwhile, Marcos said four trucks of rice have arrived in Naga on Sunday morning to help families affected by Kristine.
The President said these trucks of rice are from the National Food Authority (NFA) and Food Terminal Incorporated.
“Early this morning, four trucks of rice from the National Food Authority and Food Terminal Incorporated arrived in Naga to help families affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine,” Marcos said in a statement on Sunday.
“Right now, it’s about making sure families in Camarines Sur have what they need to begin getting back on their feet. By air, land, or sea, we’ll keep the support coming,” he added.
Tropical storm Leon enters PAR AS the rescue and relief operations continue in many areas that remain flooded as a result of Kristine, another severe weather disturbance has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
“Considering these developments, the public and disaster risk reduction and management offices concerned are advised to take all
identified a total of 1,955 areas that are prone to various geological hazards.
MGB, in its T hreat Advisory 1 for Tropical Storm Leon issued on October 27, 2024 advised all local governments’ disaster risk reduction and management councils (DRRMCs), as well as the communities to remain vigilant for the possible occurrence of landslides, flood or flash flood and debris flow or all.
MGB, a bureau under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, also released a complete list of the barangays identified to be landslide- and flood-prone based on various thresholds.
Topping the list with the most floodprone and landslide-prone areas is the Cagayan Valley with a total of 962 barangays, followed by Western Visayas with a total of 901 barangays.
The Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR) is third with 96, Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) with 91, Ilocos and Western Visayas have three, and two geohazard-prone barangays, respectively. By province, Cagayan has the most number of flood-prone and landslide-prone areas with a total of 802, followed by Antique with 524. Isabela has a total of 131 areas on the list; Apayao 92, and Occidental Mindoro, 81.
The complete DENR-MGB issued list of barangays identified to be a landslide- and flood-prone based on various thresholds can be accessed at: https://tinyurl.com/LEON102724-2AM-MGBList)
The MGB advised the public to be aware of geohazards in their areas by checking out the MGB-published geohazard maps posted on its website or online platforms such as the GeoriskPH’s HazardHunterPH (https:// hazardhunter.georisk.gov.ph).
The Philippines is one of the most disasterprone and climate change-vulnerable nations in the world. It is visited by an average of 20 typhoons and experiences earthquakes. It also has several active volcanoes.
Kristine, which wrought havoc in Luzon, dumped Ondoy-level rainfall and caused severe flooding in the Bicol Region. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported as of Sunday 90 people were killed with over five million people in 16 regions affected.
Leon, which entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday is the 11th severe weather disturbance visit the country this year. It is moving over the Philippine Sea and is forecast to induce heavy rain as it passes through Central and Northern Luzon regions. Jonathan L. Mayuga
New Canada immigration policy may affect Filipino students
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
AROUND 59,000 Filipino students in Canada may be affected by the turn-around policy on immigration by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Trudeau announced on Friday that Canada will significantly reduce the number of new immigrants that it will allow into the country.
Canada had earlier planned to allow 500,000 new permanent residents annually for the next two years. This number is now reduced to 395,000 new permanent residents for 2025, then further drop to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027. The influx of immigrants to Canada, however, increased the population growth from 37.5 million in 2019 to 41 million in April 2024. Housing became unaffordable and employers prefer to hire temporary foreign workers than Canadians owing to cheaper wage.
Trudeau admitted that his Liberal government “didn’t get the balance right” when they opened the doors to foreign immigrants.
According to the report of the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, there are 33,820 study permits issued to Filipino
students in 2023 and another 25,245 permits issued in 2022.
The Philippines is the third largest source of international students in Canada (after India and China), accounting for 5 percent of all international students in that country.
Half of the Filipino students are in Ontario, followed by British Columbia. Quebec, Alberta, and Manitoba.
As international students, they are allowed to work at least 20 hours a week, while their spouses or commonlaw partners may work full-time.
Studying in Canada has become the normal route for permanent residency, as this was allowed under Canada rules.
After they graduate from a university in Canada, they can apply for full-time work and then apply to change visa status from student to permanent resident.
With the new immigration, it seems that student visa is no longer a sure pathway for permanent residency.
“As of September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing arrangements will be ineligible for post-graduation work permits. Master’s graduates will be eligible for a three-year work permit,” the Embassy said in a report to DFA.
See “Canada,” A4
necessary measures to protect life and property. Persons living in areas identified to be highly or very highly susceptible to these hazards are advised to follow evacuation and other instructions from local officials,” the state weather bureau warned.
Tropical Storm Leon, international code name Kong-rey entered PAR around 7:30 p.m. Saturday. It is the 11th severe weather disturbance to hit the country this year so far.
In its Tropical Cyclone Bulletin issued at 5 p.m. Sunday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said Leon continues to move westward over the Philippine Sea.
The eye of the storm was spotted 1,000 km east of Central Luzon and is moving westward at 20 kilometers per hour and is packing maximum sustained winds of 75 kmh near the center and gustiness of up to 90 kmh.
While PAGASA said. Leon remains far from the Philippine landmass and may pass very close or make landfall over the southwestern portion of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, there’s a possibility that the track forecast may still shift further westward thereby directly
affecting the country’s weather.
Help from Singapore, Malaysia
MILITARY aircraft from Singapore and Malaysia arrived on Saturday to assist in ongoing relief operations.
The Air Force reported that a C-130 “Hercules” cargo aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Air Force and a Eurocopter EC725 transport helicopter from the Royal Malaysian Air Force arrived at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City and will be tapped to bolster the ongoing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations in the affected areas, Col. Maria Consuelo Castillo, Air Force Public Affairs Office director, said in a statement.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro welcomed the arrival of the aircraft with Malaysian Ambassador Dato Abd Malik Castelino, Singaporean Ambassador Constance See, and Lt. Genm Stephen Parreño, Air Force commander.
The Army has also stepped up its relief operations in Camarines Sur, one of the hardest-hit areas in the Bicol Region.
The 525th Combat Engineer “Forerunner” Battalion also reported distributing 1,100 food packs and 18 boxes of drinking water in
barangays San Miguel, San Ramon, Umbao, Causip, and San
Rescue equipment, rubber boats deployed
THE leadership of the House of Representatives said on Sunday that extensive relief and rescue operations across the Bicol Region are currently ongoing to help thousands affected by Kristine. House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Zaldy Co and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said essential rescue equipment, including 20 rubber boats, outboard motors, and various life-saving tools, hav been sent to Bicol.
Co said the aid, delivered via a C130 military aircraft at the peak of rescue operations, also included life vests, life buoys, traction ropes, and rope-throwing bags to enhance local rescue capabilities.
“These tools were vital as we faced severe flooding that displaced thousands of our kababayans ,” said Co. The rescue equipment was distributed to key agencies such as the Camarines Sur local government, the Army Ninth Infantry Division, the
See “Kristine,” A4
Roque in the town of Bula.
A4
Monday, October 28, 2024
Govt to get P8 billion Malampaya royalties in ’24
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE national government is set to collect some P8 billion in royalties this year as compared to 2023 from the ageing offshore Malampaya natural gas project, a lawmaker said on Sunday.
Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel said this amount represents a 55 percent decrease compared to 2023.
“The sum is P9.7 billion, or 55 percent less than the P17.7 billion in Malampaya royalties that
the government received in 2023,” Pimentel, a member of the House committee on public accounts, said in a statement.
Pimentel expressed optimism that government royalties from the 24-year-old project will gradually recover, potentially beginning in 2026 or 2027, once two new deepwater production wells are operational under Phase 4 of the project.
Based on Malacañang’s 2025 Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing (BESF) submitted to the Congress, Pimentel noted that the estimated government royalties from
Peac subject to COA audit–DOJ
THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has reiterated its position that the Private Education Assistance Committee (Peac) is a private entity but still subject to audit by the Commission of Audit (COA). In a five -page legal opinion, the DOJ said that the Supreme Court in Bayani Fernando v COA and in Dennis Funa v Manila Economic and Cultural Office, held that the authority of the COA to audit can extend to nongovernment entities, such as the Peac, “but only in so far as it is consistent with the provisions of Section 2 (1) (d) of the Constitution, Presidential Decree 1455 also known as the Auditing Code of the Philippines, and the Administrative Code.
Section 14 (1), Book V of the Administrative Code authorizes the COA to audit accounts
Kristine. . .
Continued from A3 Coast Guard, and the police Maritime Group, significantly enhancing rescue missions in heavily affected areas.
Food packs, blankets, tents
AKO Bicol party-list group also distributed over 18,000 food packs across the region, with 12,218 provided in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and 5,793 sourced from Ako Bicol’s resources. The distribution reached 19 barangays, mainly in Albay, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon, benefiting families in critical need.
Additionally, 500 blankets and 2,000 modular evacuation tents were delivered to support displaced residents. Hot meals and clean water were also served to over 800 individuals, including 20 families in Malilipot, 500 individuals at Tabaco Port, and 642 people across various areas in Sorsogon.
Ako Bicol said it also mobilized heavy equipment, including bulldozers, backhoes, and dump trucks, to clear blocked routes like the SagnayTiwi road, restoring vital access for relief operations.
Miners help in rescue, road-clearing ops
THE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) said in a statement that member companies mobilized their emergency response teams (ERT) to assist in the rescue, including road clearing operations.
“Our member firms were among the first to volunteer their manpower resources and company equipment to assist in government-led rescue efforts and the removal of debris and other clearing efforts along thoroughfares,” said Michael Toledo, chairman of COMP.
Mining companies have committed to donate cash and relief goods consisting of clean water, food packages, and medicines to communities where help is most needed, with Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia-Yulo Loyzaga’s appeal to the mining industry to help the government with its disaster response operations.
Mining companies’ ERTs are being deployed to the hardest hit regions, and, “if necessary, will send medical teams and more ERTs to provide relief and perform rescue operations,” Toledo added.
Malampaya have been reduced to P8 billion this year and P5 billion in 2025.
Over the 10-year period from 2014 to 2023 alone, the government received an aggregate of P200 billion in Malampaya royalties, or an average of P20 billion per year.
The royalties are payments received by the government in return for the Malampaya consortium’s right to harvest the gas field’s reserves.
“However, Malampaya is not just about government royalties. It is, more importantly, about the country’s energy independence and security,” Pimentel emphasized.
of nongovernment entities required to pay or have government share but only with respect to the funds coming from or through the government.
Meanwhile, PD 1445 held that COA’s jurisdiction extends even to nongovernment entities insofar as the latter receives financial aid from the government.
The DOJ issued the legal opinion upon the request of Education-Legal and Legislative Affairs Undersecretary Omar Romero. In his letter-request, Romero asked the DOJ for its opinion on the legal personality of the Peac, specifically on whether it is a public instrumentality or a private body.
Romero cited the memorandum dated February 11, 2020 of former Education Secretary Leonor Briones to then President
Over 5 million people affected IN its Situation Report issued at 8:00 a.m. on October 27, the NDRRMC said Kristine which left the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday, affected 1,415,438 families, or 5,784,298 individuals.
It wrought havoc to a total of 8,895 barangays in 816 cities and towns in 17 provinces across 16 regions, including parts of Visayas and Mindanao.
As of the reporting date, the NDRRMC said a total of 560,896 were displaced and brought to 7,484 different evacuation centers.
A total of 642 areas in Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), Region 5, Region 6, Region 8, Region 9, Region 12, Caraga, Bangsamoro region, and Metro Manila were flooded as heavy rainfall dumped unprecedented volume of rain over the past few days.
It also triggered landslides that buried cars and houses in several affected areas, requiring the expertise of excavation experts to help in the rescue and road-clearing operations.
Damage to agriculure, fisheries: P1.7 billion
THE NDRRMC also said, the number of affected farmers and fishermen has reached 35,918 as severe flooding damaged a total of 31,670 hectares of crops.
Total estimated damage to livestock, poultry, and fisheries was pegged at P3,079,167.5, while the total estimated damage to agriculture reached P1.43 billion.
Meanwhile, the estimated cost of damage to houses is P684,250, with a total of 27,640 houses being destroyed or partially damaged.
A total of 207 infrastructures including roads, bridges, government facilities, flood control, schools, utility service, and health facilities were damaged, with an estimated damage pegged at P825,130,698.30.
Power and electricity supply in 178 out of the 334 cities and towns is now restored, including water supply services in 16 of 38 affected cities and towns.
Thousands of passengers in affected seaports remain stranded with only 32 of the 92 affected seaports have resumed operations.
POs, NGOs spring into action IN response to the devastation caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kris -
“We need indigenous gas supplies to reduce import dependence and to insulate the country from harmful global fuel price shocks,” Pimentel added.
Malampaya’s gas supplies have been used to run major power plants in Luzon over the years.
Pimentel credited Prime Energy Resources Development B.V., the operator of Malampaya, for its bold move to extract fresh gas supplies and prolong the project’s productive life by at least another 15 years through Phase 4.
Under Phase 4, Prime Energy will
Duterte and the letter of Vice President and then Education Secretary Sara Duterte to President Marcos dated September 27, 2022 explained DepEd’s opinion that Peac is a public instrumentality.
Romero noted that DepEd’s position echoes COA’s views on the public character of the Peac as explained in COA’s 2018 Performance Audit Report.
“After a careful review of relevant and jurisprudence, we reiterate our position that Peac is a private entity,” the DOJ said in a legal opinion signed by Undersecretary Raul Vasquez.
The DOJ recounted that Executive Order 156, series of 1968, as amended by EO 150, series of 1994, constituted as an irrevocable trust fund the Fund for Assistance to Private Education (FAPE) which was set aside from the Special Fund For Education authorized by the United States Public Law 88-94, pursuant to a Project Agreement executed
tine, People’s Organizations (POs) launched community-based relief efforts in support of government efforts in the hardest-hit areas in the Bicol Region.
Joining the relief operations are peasant organizations under the umbrella of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas.
On Saturday, the Bikol Movement for Disaster Response (BMDR) mobilized relief operations, providing mobile hot meals to over 800 residents in Balangibang, Polangui, and Marayag, Libon, in Albay, KMP said in a statement.
The two villages, known for their expansive rice fields spanning over 200 hectares, have seen consecutive losses due to Typhoons Enteng and Kristine.
Nearly 85 hectares of crops that were set for harvest in late October now lie in ruin, with farmers reporting agricultural losses of up to 90 percent. Barangay leaders and local farmers are urgently calling on the Marcos administration and the Department of Agriculture for targeted support, such as rebuilding vital infrastructure—irrigation systems, dikes, roads, schools, and barangay centers.
Empower communities in DRR
IN a statement, the BMDR underscored that disaster response should empower affected communities to actively participate in relief efforts through Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM), rather than casting them as mere recipients of aid.
DHSUD allocates P15 million for Bicol
THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) aims to allocate more funds for Typhoon Kristine victims in the Bicol region. In a statement, the DHSUD said the initial allocation is P15 million for Bicol, particularly for Camarines Sur and Albay. But the department is also processing more assistance to other affected areas.
Housing Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said that the much-needed cash assistance under the Department’s Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program (Idsap) should be extended immediately to families whose houses were damaged.
Ngayon na po kailangan ng ating mga kababayan ang tulong na ito, kaya dapat bilisan natin ang proseso katulong ang mga local governments,” said Acuzar, who was with President Marcos
spend up to $600 million (or P35 billion) to drill two new production wells and then hook them up to the Malampaya shallow water platform.
Drilling is set for the second quarter of 2025, with the aim to deliver new gas by 2026.
The company has awarded Londonbased Noble Corp. a $69.9 million contract to drill the two new production wells, with the option to drill a third exploratory well.
It has also awarded Dutch firm Allseas Nederland (Brasil) B.V. a $180 million contract to install the subsea pipeline and umbilical infrastructure
in accordance with the Exchange of Notes between the US government the Philippine government.
It was under this EO that Peac was designated as trustee of the FAPE and authorized to administer, manage and supervise the latter’s operations.
Among other things, Peac is tasked with the duty to set the investment policy of the FAPE, provide for the receiving and processing of the projects sought to be financed by the FAPE, make all decisions on the use of its income and applications for grants and loans.
The DOJ noted that on January 14, 1969, it has issued an opinion that Peac cannot be considered a government agency noting that the project agreement between the US and the Philippines did not indicate any intention to make PEAC as such.
It added that the same position was reiterated by the DOJ in another legal opinion issued on July 20, 1999.
in Naga City on Saturday to assess the situation in Region 5. Under Idsap, the DHSUD can provide unconditional cash assistance of P30,000 for victims whose houses were damaged, and P10,000 for those with partially damaged residences.
Currently, DHSUD Regional Offices in areas ravaged by Kristine, particularly RO 5, are working closely with local governments to facilitate and expedite the processing of those qualified for Idsapp.
NGCP, Meralco: Power restored in most areas
THE Manila Electric Company (Meralco) on Sunday said except for a few areas in some parts of Cavite and Laguna, it has restored power service to most of the customers affected by Kristine.
“We thank our customers for their patience and understanding. Our crews and personnel will not stop until power service has been restored to the remaining affected customers, as we target full restoration within the day,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
The utility firm’s crews and personnel continue to work non-stop to bring back service in the remaining storm-hit areas.
Meralco remains on alert with the entry of Tropical Storm Leon. “We continue to closely monitor the weather situation and we assure our customers that our crews and personnel are ready to respond 24/7,” Zaldarriaga said.
Meanwhile, One Meralco Foundation, the social development arm of the distribution utility, has mobilized its personnel for the distribution of relief packs and solar lamps in areas severely affected by the storm.
The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), meanwhile, said it has completely restored all loads affected by the typhoon. “The tropical cyclone poses no further threat to any NGCP facilities,” it said.
NGCP’s Overall Command Center, it added, remains activated as it continues to monitor weather disturbances.
Meanwhile, the Department of Energy’s (DOE) disaster response and rehabilitation efforts, through the Task Force on Energy Resiliency (TFER), said the energy sector has swiftly mobilized to restore power across affected areas in Luzon, prioritizing regions where floodwaters
that will attach the new production wells to the Malampaya platform.
Last week, the Department of Energy certified Malampaya Phase 4 as a project of “national significance,” entitling it to accelerate regulatory approvals ahead of the scheduled drilling of the new wells. Malampaya is located 65 kilometers northwest off the coast of Palawan.
The Malampaya consortium is composed of operator Prime Energy, UC38 LLC of the Udenna Group, and the state-run PNOC Exploration Corp.
“In that regard, the constitution of the Peac by an Executive Order, by itself does not automatically render it as a government agency or instrumentality under the general administrative supervision of the Office of the President pursuant to the 1987 Constitution and the Administrative Code,” the DOJ said.
“Thus, in line with this Department’s prior opinions, the purpose for which PEAC was constituted, as well as its functions and responsibilities, do not partake the nature of sovereign functions. ,” it added.
Likewise, the DOJ noted that the exofficio membership of the Secretary of Education and the chief of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) in PEAC, “does not negate its private nature,” since majority of its members come from the private sector and their majority votes are sufficient to carry decisions of Peac as trustee. Joel R. San Juan
have receded. Teams of linemen, engineers, and technical personnel from electric cooperatives, the National Power Corporation, NGCP, Meralco and other private distribution utilities are working tirelessly to restore electricity in these areas. Their efforts include simultaneous clearing of debris, repairing downed power lines, conducting foot patrols, and rebuilding damaged substations.
DPWH: 18 road sections closed to traffic
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) meanwhile said multiple sections of the national road network remain inaccessible due to flooding, landslides, and structural damage, with DPWH saying that teams are working around the clock to clear debris and restore connectivity.
Eighteen road sections are currently closed to traffic. These closures are primarily in northern and central regions, with particularly severe damage in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Regions II, III, IVA, IV-B, V, and VII.
Among the affected areas, provinces such as Batangas, Albay, and Camarines Sur have witnessed significant landslides and rock collapses, leaving major roads impassable. In CAR’s Kalinga province, large rock collapses have blocked critical transportation routes, while in Pampanga and Batangas, sections of the roadway have succumbed to erosion, forcing authorities to restrict access completely.
Three national bridges also remain unusable due to either structural collapse or high water levels.
The Itawes Bridge on the CagayanApayao Road in Cagayan is flooded, making it impassable. Meanwhile, the Bugaan Bridge in Batangas has been washed out entirely, and the Waras Bridge in Camarines Sur collapsed, cutting off a critical link for local communities.
The DPWH also reported limited access on thirteen additional road sections, predominantly in Region V. Roads here are still filled with debris from road slips and flash floods, making them risky for regular vehicles.
The agency noted that it has deployed a large workforce and machinery, mobilizing 9,005 personnel and 2,048 units of equipment across the affected regions. Jonathan L. Mayuga, Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz, Cai Ordinario, Andrea San Juan, Lenie L ectura and Lorenz S. Marasigan
Also, only spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs will be allowed to be issued work permits.
“Spouses of students in other programs (like bachelor’s or diploma courses) will no longer be eligible for open work permits,” the Embassy added. Also, for those who are still in the Philippines and applying to become an international student, the Embassy said Canada has now put a cap of international student permits at 360,000 for 2024, from previously unlimited numbers. This is 34 percent decrease from the number of student permits issued last year. These study permit allocations are distributed by each province and territory. The Canadian province or territory must issue an attestation letter for every application for study permits.
The Embassy and the consulates in other parts of Canada have been helping Filipino students who need medical assistance and repatriation.
Since 2023, the have also been conducting information sessions. These sessions include the Canadian education system, the rights of students doing part time work, financial literacy, resources available in Canada, as well as services provided by the Philippine government.
The Embassy has also held meetings with federal and provincial immigration authorities in Canada to “ensure the welfare of Filipino students.”
“Being an international student in Canada is not a sure pathway to becoming a permanent resident, and the Canadian government is now imposing more stringent requirements on international students.
“The Philippine government stands ready to assist Filipino international students in Canada, should they require assistance (except in cases relating to their applications for permanent residence),” the Embassy said.
Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said he does not expect that there will be a mass repatriation of Filipino students from Canada.
“We do not see many Filipinos in Canada suddenly being rounded up and deported due to this new policy. Our Foreign Service Posts will continue to advocate for their best interests with the Canadian authorities, and assist our kababayans in Canada as best they can,” de Vega told the BusinessMirror
‘PHL milk output will breach 30,000-MT mark’
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
he Philippines will end 2024 with a higher milk production due to the expansion of its dairy herd, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) said in its latest report.
“Production will recover at the level of 32,000 MT [metric tons] in 2024 attributed to the increasing number of dairy animals,” its report read.
The international agency also projected that the country’s milk output will continue to rise next year driven by the increasing herd size and the government’s dairy projects.
country’s beginning inventory of dairy animals in 2024 stood at 34,000 heads.
“The number of dairy goats is growing due to increasing imports, with the NDA focusing on providing goats for the livelihood of small farmers,” it said.
“The dairy cattle herd has recovered from a decline in 2023 due to refreshing of old animals and slaughter of cows for meat.”
NDA Administrator Marcus Antonius Andaya recently said the agency would begin to import dairy cattle as soon as their 2025 budget gets approved. These animals would be placed in NDA’s stock farms around the country and their offspring would then be distributed to farmers, he added.
Andaya said the agency is expecting the arrival of at least 600 imported dairy cattle from Australia in July 2025.
Figures from the National Dairy Authority (NDA) showed that the country’s milk production in 2023 reached 28,860 MT.
The projected output for 2024 is nearly 11 percent higher than last year’s level.
“Post forecasts production will rebound to 33,000 MT in 2025 boosted by an increase in the dairy herd and the active implementation of the government’s dairy development projects.”
However, despite production improvements, the USDA said the Philippines will supply only 20 percent of its annual ready-todrink (RTD) milk requirement. It will continue to bank on imports to fill the balance.
“Production growth has been
slow in previous years because of the inability to increase the dairy herd, mostly due to insufficient funding and little investment from the private sector.”
Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, the international agency said the
DA keen on food monitoring system of FMC Research
THe Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA), has partnered with regulatory technology firm FMC Research Solutions Inc. to improve the safety and quality of imported agricultural products.
BPI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with FMC Research to initiate a pilot test program that seeks to boost the agency’s quarantine capabilities.
“The partnership between DABPI and FMC Research seeks to leverage innovative technology to enhance inspection processes and ensure compliance with food safety regulations to ensure the health of Filipino consumers,” the agency said in a statement.
BPI is tasked with enforcing food safety and phytosanitary regulations in the country, issuing clearances prior to importation to safeguard human health. The DA said the initiative is critical in preventing the entry of unsafe food products and controlling the spread of potential diseases linked to imports.
BPI Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban said the MOU with FMC Research aligns with Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s efforts to digitize and streamline the functions of DA and its attached agencies.
“We’re continuously looking at technological solutions to boost our inspection and quarantine capabilities, especially with the recent
enactment of the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act that gave DA expanded powers to combat the smuggling of agricultural products,” he said.
“With this agreement, we will gain additional verification points for our agricultural product supply. This initiative will complement the existing tools of BPI, allowing us to be more proactive in ensuring the availability of safe, pest-free, and disease-free agricultural commodities.”
FMC Research specializes in providing a comprehensive lifecycle monitoring system for imported agricultural products. Under the MOU, FMC Research will conduct a pilot testing program at no additional cost to government.
“In this pilot test program, we
Germany pledges funds to help developing economies meet farm trade standards
Ge R MAN y is pledging e U R 150,000 (approximately CHF 140,000) in 2024 to the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) to help developing economies and least-developed countries (LDCs) improve their sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) capacity. The World Trade Organization (WTO) said in a statement that the objective is to increase their access to global and regional markets and contribute to sustainable economic growth, food security and poverty reduction.
Germany’s Ambassador to the WTO, Carmen Heidecke, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on behalf of the German government.
“Germany demonstrates once again its commitment to helping developing countries and LDCs maximize the benefits of trade by improving their ability to comply with SPS requirements. This contribution will allow them to participate more actively in global agricultural markets for the
benefit of thousands of farmers,” said WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
“The STDF makes important contributions to help developing countries and LDCs implement SPS standards and tackle global challenges. The German Ministry for Food and Agriculture is therefore very pleased to be renewing its support to help the STDF carry out its projects,” Heidecke said.
Overall, Germany has donated CHF 10.6 million to the STDF since
shall demonstrate the capabilities and features of our secure solution,” said Melody C. Chua, co-founder of FMC Research Solutions Inc.
“We aim to secure an end-toend system designed to counter the present issues on food safety and agricultural smuggling. Our proposed solution ensures comprehensive coverage to enhance the monitoring and audit functions of regulatory agencies by providing the needed reports and business analytics to aid the Bureau of Plant Industry.”
Chua said the adoption of FMC Research’s technology will lead to “greater transparency in import compliance,” ensuring improved food safety and quality for consumers.
2006 and CHF 38.5 million to the various WTO trust funds over almost 25 years.
The STDF is a global multistakeholder partnership to facilitate safe and inclusive trade, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health, the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization and the WTO, which houses and manages the partnership.
The WTO said it responds to evolving needs, drives inclusive trade and contributes to sustainable economic growth, food security and poverty reduction, in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Meanwhile, the USDA said the country’s demand for RTD milk will grow in 2025 due to the expansion of the government’s Milk Feeding Program and strong food service growth, particularly in the coffee shop sector.
“Take-out and delivery services will push demand growth as consumers get used to online purchases,” it said. “Post revises consumption in 2024 from the USDA official estimate of 129,000 to 137,000 MT accounting for the increased in local supply and imported RTD milk.”
“Within the same year, the dairy cattle will be able to produce milk,” he said. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2024/10/21/ nda-needs-bigger-budget-tohike-milk-output/)
According to Andaya, the NDA is targeting to raise annual domestic production to 80 million liters, equivalent to a 5 percent milk self-sufficiency rate, by 2028. He said the country’s milk self-sufficiency rate stood at 1.54 percent as of June.
Manila to get support from FAO, World Bank for new project
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), together with the World Bank, will implement a project in the Philippines that aims to enhance global and local health security.
FAO said in a statement that the project, dubbed Resilient Philippines, is one of the 21 new projects totaling $109 million that it will implement with other institutions.
These projects are part of the second round of funding from The Pandemic Fund.
“Countries that will receive FAO support include Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda where projects are fasttracked to enhance health security through the One h e alth approach. This approach acknowledges the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health,” the UN agency said.
“Additional countries such as Chad, eg ypt, Ghana, Indonesia, Jordan, Lebanon, Nicaragua, Pakistan, the Philippines, Samoa, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Tunisia will also see significant investments with FAO support for pandemic preparedness. There will also be multi-country projects in Africa, ea stern Caribbean and in the Southeast Asia region.”
FAO said this funding round builds on the same priorities as in the first round, supporting more countries and regions to strengthen priority technical areas, such as collaborative surveillance, laboratory capacity, and workforce development.
“The funding also aims to strengthen cross-sector collaboration, leverage sustainable financing, and improve efficiency in pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response efforts.”
The new projects will expand FAO’s Pandemic Fund portfolio to 33 initiatives across its
five regions—Africa, Asia-Pacific, eu rope and Central Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Near e a st and North Africa—supporting 45 countries with a combined value of nearly $170 million.
Aside from the World Bank, FAO is also partnering with national governments, regional bodies and other implementing entities including the World h e alth Organization, the United Nations Children’s Fund and the Asian Development Bank.
Launched in November 2022 during a G20 meeting, the Pandemic Fund, hosted by the World Bank Group, is the first multilateral financing mechanism dedicated to helping low-and middle-income countries become better prepared for future pandemics. It receives applications from countries, supported by accredited Implementing e n tities such as FAO, and the Fund’s Governing Board agrees on finance allocations.
“FAO’s existing expertise in strengthening the core technical capacities of veterinary services, including in disease surveillance and laboratory diagnostics, will be a key asset in this second round of funding.” For example, FAO said its digital tools like e M A-i, inFARM, e M PR e S -i, and alerts via SMS, allow fast reporting for mitigation and supports quality assurance and biosafety for animal health labs.
It also has a strong track record of supporting veterinary laboratories and workforce development, including through the FAO Field Veterinary e p idemiology Training, which equips veterinary professionals to detect and respond early to emerging health threats. FAO and partners are now entering the final approval stage for the successful proposals, with full implementation expected to begin by early 2025.
UK to expand Pacific fishing patrols in pushback against China
H
Te United Kingdom plans to step up its naval activity in the Pacific, including more joint fishing patrols, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to show support for United States-led efforts to check China’s expanding maritime reach. Starmer will announce increased Royal Navy operations in the region while in Samoa on Saturday to attend the final day of the Commonwealth heads of government meeting. The efforts will include expanded patrols with Pacific Island nations to respond to natural disasters and counter illegal fishing, a growing concern for the region as Chinese fleets— often escorted by government security vessels—sail further abroad for stocks.
Countries such as the US and
France, which each have overseas territories in the South Pacific, have announced similar efforts.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the challenges faced by our friends and partners on the other side of the world,” Starmer said in a statement. “So my message today is clear: This is just the beginning of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific.”
The UK has sought to rebuild its historical links to the region in the wake of Brexit and will this year become the first eu ropean nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership.
While in Samoa, Starmer is expected to announce a joint effort with Australia to set up a “Pacific Business Club” to help companies bid for $6 billion of multilateral development bank contracts.
Britain and New Zealand will also announces a new collaboration to support renewable energy projects.
The UK is attempting to bolster the Royal Navy’s presence in the Indian and Pacific Oceans after decades of ceding responsibilities to allies such as the US and Australia. The rise of China, which now boasts the world’s largest navy by number of ships, has prompted calls from Washington for likeminded nations to help carry the security load.
The UK plans to send the HMS Prince of Wales—one of two British aircraft carriers commissioned in recent years to carry advanced F-35 fighter jets—on a Pacific tour next year. Starmer and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will announce on
Saturday that the carrier and its escorts will call at the Royal Navy’s one-time Pacific stronghold during the deployment.
Still, Britain can’t project maritime power the way it once did.
The aircraft carriers have been dogged by engineering problems and the Royal Navy has fewer than 70 surface ships, compared with the US’s almost 300. The UK only has two patrol vessels deployed full-time in the Pacific, including the HMS Tamar, which provided security during the Commonwealth gathering.
The Pacific Islands are at the center of an escalating competition between China and the US for maritime routes, deep-water ports and other strategic assets due to the countries’ proximity to key shipping lanes and com-
MIke MeRGeN/BLOOMBeRG
PHILIPPINE PAINT AND COATINGS INDUSTRY: A CENTURY OF COLOR, INNOVATION
By Reginald T. Yu President, Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc.
ACENTURY ago, few could have envisioned that a modest paint factory in the Philippines would ignite a movement, transforming the nation into a key player in Southeast Asia’s paint and coatings industry. From its Spanish roots to its current role as a catalyst for regional innovation and environmental stewardship, the industry has adeptly evolved to meet changing demands with resilience and ingenuity. Today, with an impressive annual capacity of 360 million liters, the Philippine paint market represents more than just business; it is a dynamic ecosystem driven by technology, sustainability, and the determination to lead.
A s the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI) embraces this responsibility, its mission extends beyond pigment production — it's about creating meaningful impact, shaping policies, advancing eco-friendly technologies, and uplifting communities. Every initiative, from promoting fair competition to pioneering eco-conscious coatings, underscores a dedication to progress, echoing a legacy as enduring as the vibrant colors that characterize the Philippine skyline.
Profile of the Philippine paint industry
FROM its humble beginnings in 1911, the Philippine paint and coatings industry has become a cornerstone of the country's industrial evolution. Starting with the first Spanish-owned paint factory, it has grown into a thriving ecosystem encompassing local and global companies. The industry continually adapts to technological advancements, environmental regulations, and evolving consumer demands.
With an estimated annual capacity of 350 million liters, the Philippine paint industry has experienced substantial growth and innovation, responding to both domestic and regional demands. The sector is primarily divided into architectural, industrial, automotive, and marine segments, with architectural coatings leading in consumption, bolstered by ongoing construction and real estate developments. Notably, about twothirds of these coatings are waterbased emulsions, reflecting a clear shift towards eco-friendlier solutions amidst a growing awareness of sustainability.
Currently, over half of the country’s coatings are solventbased, while water-based products account for nearly 48 percent, leaving 2 percent for specialized applications like anti-corrosion and heat-resistant coatings. The industry is projected to expand at an annual rate of 5 to 6 percent, driven by increased building projects and steady economic growth.
The Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI): A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy IN 1960, as the paint industry flourished, a group of manufacturers formed the Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers (PAPM), which eventually evolved into the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI). Initially established as a platform for uniting paint manufacturers and sharing technological advance -
ments, the organization totally embraced its new brand in 2024 to reflect its broader mandate, encompassing a wider range of products and innovations for both industrial and commercial applications.
A s the industry’s voice, PPCAI aims to foster healthy competition, encourage the development of high-quality, eco-friendly products, and build relationships with government agencies and industry stakeholders. Its objectives also focus on enhancing consumer protection, supporting regulatory compliance, and addressing the economic needs of its members.
PPCAI envisions becoming a formidable player in the ASEAN paint and coatings market. Its mission extends beyond traditional business goals; it strives to position the Philippine paint industry as a leader in environmental stewardship, quality, and safety. To realize this vision, PPCAI collaborates with regulatory agencies, organizes industry events, and offers technical training for professionals. Core goals include fostering a balanced and collaborative environment to spark innovation and elevate product standards, ensuring the industry remains at the forefront of progress.
PPCAI actively promotes technological advancement through knowledge exchange between manufacturers and suppliers. It seeks mutually beneficial opportunities that enrich both the industry and the broader economy while championing consumer protection by working closely with government agencies to uphold stringent quality standards and safeguard user safety. Additionally, the association advocates for favorable business policies, engaging policymakers to shape tax laws and import duties that support sustainability and growth in the paint and coatings sector.
Key milestones and initiatives THROUGHOUT its history, the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI) has played a crucial role in shaping and fostering the growth of the Philippine paint industry. The association has been a catalyst for innovation and excellence, hosting and participating in numerous pivotal events and initiatives that have strengthened the sector. From launching educational programs to forming strategic international partnerships, PPCAI has consistently upheld and advanced industry standards and quality.
Educational programs and training initiatives
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tion and professional development. The association has implemented a series of training programs aimed at equipping industry professionals with the latest knowledge and skills. For instance, the establishment of the Advanced Paint Technology Course (APTC) has become a landmark offering, focusing on cutting-edge advancements in paint formulations, application techniques, and industry trends. This course is designed not only to elevate the technical expertise of participants but also to foster a culture of continuous learning within the industry. Additionally, PPCAI has collaborated with various academic institutions to promote research and development in paint technology. The first advanced paint course in polymer chemistry, launched in partnership with leading universities, exemplifies this commitment.
This initiative aims to address the increasing demand for high-performance coatings that are both environmentally friendly and technologically advanced.
International collaborations and partnerships
Recognizing the importance of global engagement, PPCAI has actively sought partnerships with international organizations to enhance the competitiveness of the Philippine paint industry. Collaborations with industry bodies from countries such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States have facilitated knowledge exchange and technological transfer. These partnerships have enabled local manufacturers to adopt best practices in production, quality control, and environmental management.
In recent years, PPCAI has also established formal alliances with
the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to advocate for environmentally responsible practices within the industry. This collaboration has focused on developing guidelines and frameworks that promote sustainable manufacturing processes, reducing waste, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Through workshops and seminars, PPCAI and DENR have engaged industry stakeholders in meaningful discussions on the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly practices in paint production.
Corporate ResponsibilitySocialinitiatives
PPCAI's commitment to social responsibility is evident in its various outreach programs aimed at uplifting communities. Initiatives such as community outreach programs in Tondo, Manila, demonstrate the as-
sociation's dedication to making a positive impact on society. These programs not only provide essential resources to underserved communities but also promote awareness of the importance of using quality paints and coatings for health and safety. Moreover, PPCAI has actively organized sports and networking events to build camaraderie within the industry. Events like the annual Badminton Tournament and the Bingo Extravaganza serve as platforms for members to connect, share experiences, and foster professional relationships. These gatherings promote a sense of community among industry players, encouraging collaboration and the sharing of best practices.
Advocacy for industry standards
PPCAI has consistently been at the forefront of advocating for high in-
Chemicals Industry Stakeholders Meeting at DTI HQ, Makati City (June 26).
Met with Engr. Esperanza A. Sajul Assistant Director of the EMB (May 11).
PPCAI 1st Grand General Membership Meeting at Eastwood, Quezon City (April 11).
PPCAI courtesy visit with Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa at Department of Health HQ (June 7). PPCAI Delegates for APIC Conference in Bangkok prepare reports in BGC (October 24).
PPCAI Bingo Extravaganza at SM Megamall (August 29).
Mid-Autumn Mooncake Festival at SM Megamall (September 19).
Courtesy Call to Undersecretary Bernardo Florece in Malacanang (May 21).
INNOVATION AND PROGRESS
dustry standards and regulations. By engaging with government agencies, the association has influenced the development of policies that support fair competition and consumer protection. Its participation in discussions regarding the Extended Producers’ Responsibility (EPR) Law and the Product Certification of Import Regulations (PCIR) underscores its role in ensuring that the industry adheres to stringent quality and safety standards.
In summary, PPCAI’s milestones and initiatives reflect its unwavering commitment to driving growth, innovation, and social responsibility within the Philippine paint industry. Through educational programs, international partnerships, and community outreach, the association continues to enhance the industry's landscape while championing sustainable practices and industry excellence.
tives, PPCAI has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to industry excellence and social responsibility. This reflection highlights key milestones and memorable moments that shaped an unforgettable year, setting an inspiring stage for the industry’s future.
The year kicked off with a spirited Christmas Party on December 6, 2023, which also served as Election Night. Members and industry partners gathered in joy to elect new officers while enjoying a “Christmas Carol-oke” competition. On February 20, 2024, the newly elected officers were formally inaugurated, during which President Reggie Yu outlined ambitious goals for technological upgrades and advocacy on key regulatory issues affecting the paint sector. A s relationships were built and regulatory challenges tackled, PPCAI met on May 11 with Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) to discuss industry adaptations to the EPR Act. Two days later, a mid-year regulatory assessment focused on FDA regulations, and prepared to seek amendments beneficial to local manufacturers. On June 7, PPCAI leaders met with Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa to advocate for removing paint products from the Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) list, balancing industry needs with safety considerations.
On June 14, the Technical Committee planned updates for Phase II of the Paint Technology Course (PTC), aiming for innovative, eco-friendly curriculum enhancements in partnership with academic institutions. Officially launched at the University of the Philippines-Diliman on July 6, PTC II provided members with advanced training in paint formulations and industry trends. The following week, PPCAI’s annual Badminton Tournament on July 13 fostered member relationships through friendly competition. When Typhoon Carina struck in August, PPCAI spearheaded a relief campaign, distributing paint supplies and financial support to rebuild affected communities in Luzon.
Driving innovation and technical excellence
TO address increasing technical demands, PPCAI has organized various courses and seminars that equip members with cutting-edge knowledge and techniques. For instance, its advanced paint technology courses cover essential topics such as corrosion resistance and eco-friendly formulations, critical as the industry adapts to stricter environmental guidelines. In 1996, PPCAI partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to professionalize Filipino painters. Initiatives like the Painter's ID have elevated standards, ensuring that skilled labor meets the demands of high-quality paint application. Furthermore, the association’s workshops, accredited by the Department of Education and the Professional Regulation Commission,
contribute to a qualified workforce.
International engagements and environmental initiatives
PPCAI has not only focused on domestic advancements but has also extended its reach internationally. Through the Asian Paint Industry Council (APIC) and various international trade shows, PPCAI members have shared insights on global trends and emerging technologies, ensuring the Philippine paint industry remains competitive while benefiting from innovations and best practices from abroad.
The association’s commitment to sustainability is exemplified by initiatives like the Coatings Care Program, which advocates for safe and eco-friendly manufacturing and application practices. Additionally, PPCAI’s collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and the “Adopt a School Action Program”
highlight its dedication to environmental responsibility and community upliftment.
The future of Philippine paint and coatings
PPCAI envisions a future marked by a stronger focus on sustainable practices, green technology, and regional competitiveness. As the ASEAN market expands, its goal is to position the Philippine paint industry as a leader in both product quality and environmental standards.
A Year of Innovation and Unity: PPCAI’s 2023-2024 Milestones
THE year 2024 has been a journey of growth, collaboration, and resilience for the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI).
From celebrating camaraderie at a festive Christmas party to tackling complex regulatory challenges and championing eco-friendly initia-
welfare, the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, Inc. (PPCAI) is well-positioned to lead the industry into an era of sustainable growth and regional prominence. As PPCAI expands its initiatives, it serves as a beacon of progress and professionalism within the Philippine and ASEAN paint industries.
Standing at the brink of a promising future, the Philippine paint and coatings sector boasts a rich history of innovation and resilience. Its annual production capacity has reached an impressive 360 million liters, making it more than just a business; it represents a dynamic ecosystem fueled by creativity, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. Reflecting on its accomplishments, PPCAI recognizes that a commitment to excellence and sustainability will be crucial in propelling the sector forward.
Looking ahead, compelling statistics reveal the vast potential for growth and innovation in the Philippine paint market. The architectural segment, currently the largest consumer of paint, is projected to thrive, buoyed by ongoing construction and infrastructure projects under the government's "Build, Build, Build" program. Furthermore, the shift towards water-based paints—comprising approximately 48% of total production—aligns with global trends advocating for sustainability and reduced environmental impact. With a forecasted annual growth rate of 5–6 percent, the industry's prospects are robust, driven by increasing consumer demand for quality and innovation.
Furthering its outreach, the Bingo Extravaganza fundraiser on August 29 supported PPCAI’s scholarship and community programs through an evening of games, raffles, and philanthropy. PTC II graduates celebrated their achievements at a ceremony at Ateneo’s PIPAC on September 4, showcasing skills in sustainable paint technologies. In mid-September, members gathered for a cultural celebration, deepening camaraderie through the traditional dice game at PPCAI’s Mid-Autumn Festival event.
In October, the PCIR Working Group held its third meeting to advance international regulatory alignment, focusing on certification systems and quality standards to enhance the local industry’s competitiveness. A final GMM on November 6 will culminate the year with insights from regional leaders and an announcement of the next steps for PPCAI, setting the stage for a future marked by innovation and sustainability.
Conclusion: A colorful future awaits THE Philippine paint and coatings industry stands at the precipice of a new era, blending a rich history with ambitious goals for innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. With the PPCAI’s unwavering commitment to its members and the broader community, the industry is poised not just to color the nation but to lead it into a vibrant and sustainable future.
Since its inception in 1911, the Philippine paint industry has undergone significant evolution, emerging as a vital component of the nation’s economy. With a robust framework centered on innovation and a steadfast commitment to environmental and consumer
PPCAI’s vision extends beyond merely keeping pace with industry developments; it aspires to set new standards for sustainability and technological advancement. As a recognized leader in the ASEAN region, the association aims to integrate green technologies into manufacturing processes, enhance consumer safety through stringent quality controls, and promote industry-wide adherence to ecofriendly practices. Initiatives like the Coatings Care Program exemplify PPCAI’s proactive approach to environmental stewardship, ensuring that all stakeholders understand the significance of sustainable practices.
Moreover, by fostering collaborations with government bodies and educational institutions, PPCAI is laying the groundwork for a skilled workforce ready to meet the evolving needs of the industry. Programs such as the Paint Technology Course (PTC II) reflect the association’s commitment to developing expertise in sustainable paint formulations, corrosion resistance, and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. These educational efforts not only uplift industry standards but also inspire a new generation of professionals dedicated to innovation and sustainability.
Looking to the future, PPCAI’s agenda includes advancing partnerships that prioritize research and development, advocating for policies that support economic growth, and enhancing outreach initiatives that illustrate the paint industry’s value to society. By engaging with local communities and promoting responsible practices, the association is not only shaping the future of the paint and coatings industry but also committed to making a positive societal impact.
In conclusion, the Philippine paint and coatings industry is on the verge of a transformative journey. As PPCAI embraces its role as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and sustainability, it reflects the dedication of its members and the collective aspiration to improve the quality of life in the Philippines. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a vision for a vibrant, sustainable future, PPCAI is ready to paint the next chapter in the history of this dynamic industry — one that celebrates creativity, responsibility, and progress for generations to come.
PPCAI discussion on the draft letter to FDA for HUHS at Bellevue Manila, Alabang (May 13).
PPCAI Board 2024-2025.
PPCAI Induction and Turnover Ceremonies at Hilton Manila, Newport City (February 20).
PPCAI Board Meeting at Astoria Plaza, Ortigas (December 13, 2023).
PPCAI's first Oktoberfest Celebration at Boudica Bar, Pasig City (October 18).
Paint Technology Course II at Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City (July 10). Paint Technology Course II at University Hotel, UP Diliman (July 3).
Disaster Relief Typhoon Carina at Cainta, Rizal (August 15).
Election of the new PPCAI Board of Directors at Felicidad Mansion, Quezon City (December 6, 2023).
Israel’s 1st open attack on Iran targets military sites in retaliation for ballistic missile barrage
By Jon Gambrell, Adam Schreck & Tia Goldenberg The Associated Press
TEL AVIV, Israel—Israel attacked military targets in Iran with pre-dawn airstrikes Saturday in retaliation for the barrage of ballistic missiles the Islamic Republic fired on Israel earlier this month. It was the first time Israel’s military has openly attacked Iran.
The Israeli military said its aircraft targeted facilities that Iran used to make the missiles fired at Israel as well as surface-to-air missile sites.
Crucially, there was no indication that Iran’s oil or nuclear sites were struck. Iran insisted the strikes caused only “limited damage,” and Iranian state-run media downplayed them. Taken together, the moves suggested at least for now that both countries are trying to avoid a more serious escalation.
Still, the strikes risk pushing the archenemies closer to all-out war at a time of spiraling violence across the Middle East, where militant groups backed by Iran—including Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon—are already at war with Israel.
Following the airstrikes, Iran’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying it “considers itself entitled and obligated to defend against foreign acts of aggression.” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran has “no limits” in defending its interests and called for the UN Security Council to condemn Israel for the attacks.
But late Saturday, Iran’s military issued a carefully worded statement suggesting any cease-fire in Israel’s ground offensives in Gaza and Lebanon would trump any possible retaliatory strike. Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency said four people were killed, all with the military air defense. Iran’s military said the strikes targeted military bases in Ilam, Khuzestan and Tehran provinces. But the powerful paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, which oversees Iran’s vast ballistic missile arsenal, was silent, raising questions about whether anything had been hit at its bases.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in a statement posted to X, gave his condolences to the families of the dead and warned against future attacks.
“Enemies of Iran should know these brave people are standing fearlessly in defense of their land and will respond to any stupidity with tact and intelligence,” he wrote.
US President Joe Biden told reporters Israel gave him a heads-up before the strikes and said it looked like “they didn’t hit anything but military targets.” His administration won assurances from Israel in mid-October that it would not hit nuclear facilities and oil installations. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said Iran’s nuclear facilities were not impacted.
“I hope this is the end,” Biden said. Israel’s first open attack on Iran
I RAN h adn’t faced a sustained barrage of fire from a foreign enemy since its 1980s war with Iraq. Explosions could be heard in Tehran until sunrise. Israel is also widely thought to be behind a limited airstrike in April near a major air base in Iran that hit the radar system for a Russian-made air defense battery. Iran had earlier fired a wave of missiles and drones at Israel, causing minimal damage, after two Iranian generals were killed in an apparent Israeli airstrike on an Iranian diplomatic post in Syria.
On October 1, Iran launched at least 180 missiles into Israel in retaliation for devastating blows Israel landed against Hezbollah. They caused minimal damage and a few injuries.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran “made a big mistake.”
“If the regime in Iran were to make the mistake of beginning a new round of escalation, we will be obligated to respond,” Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said.
Images released by Israel’s military showed members preparing to depart for the strikes in American-made F-15 and F-16 warplanes.
The Iranian military statement described Israel’s warplanes as firing lightweight missiles at a distance of 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the Iranian border. The missiles struck air defense radar stations, the military said, some of which were already under repair.
Iran’s mission to the United Nations accused the US of complicity in the attack, asserting that the US controls Iraqi airspace.
Israel’s attack did not take out highly visible or symbolic facilities that could prompt a significant response from Iran, said Yoel Guzansky, a researcher at Tel Aviv’s Institute for National Security Studies who formerly worked for Israel’s National Security Council.
It also gives Israel room for escalation if needed, and targeting air defense systems weakens Iran’s capabilities to defend against future attacks, he said, adding that if there is Iranian retaliation, it should be limited.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defense minister, that “Iran should not make the mistake of responding to Israel’s strikes, which should mark the end of this exchange,” according to Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary. The pair spoke Friday and Saturday.
On the campaign trail this weekend, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump briefly addressed the airstrikes.
“Israel is attacking—we’ve got a war going on and she’s out partying,”
Trump said at a rally in Michigan on Friday as Harris was holding an event with Beyoncé in Texas.
Meanwhile, Harris on Saturday called for “de-escalation and not an escalation of activities in that region.”
“I feel very strongly, we as the United States feel very strongly that Iran must stop what it is doing in terms of the threat that it presents to the region and we will always defend Israel against any attacks by Iran in that way,” she told reporters in Michigan.
Sanam Vakil, the director of the Middle East and North Africa program at the London-based think tank Chatham House, said Israel sent a signal by what it attacked.
“By targeting military sites and missile facilities over nuclear and energy infrastructure, Israel is also messaging that it seeks no further escalation for now,” Vakil said.
After the strikes, the streets in Iran’s capital were calm, with schools and shops open. There were long lines at the gas stations—a regular occurrence when military violence flares.
But some residents seemed anxious and avoided conversations with an Associated Press reporter.
Mixed reactions at home and abroad
I SR AELI o pposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the decision to avoid “strategic and economic targets,” saying on X that “we could and should have exacted a much heavier price from Iran.”
The United States warned against further retaliation, and Britain and Germany said Iran should not respond.
“All acts of escalation are condemnable and must stop,” the spokesman for the UN secretary-general said.
Saudi Arabia was one of multiple countries in the region condemning the strike, calling it a violation of Iran’s “sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms.”
Hezbollah and Hamas condemned Israel’s attack.
Regional tensions have been soaring
I N L ebanon, dozens were killed and thousands wounded in September
when pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah exploded in attacks attributed to Israel. A massive Israel airstrike the following week outside Beirut killed Hezbollah’s longtime leader, Hassan Nasrallah.
Israel launched a ground invasion into southern Lebanon. More than a million Lebanese people have been displaced, and the death toll has risen sharply as airstrikes hit in and around Beirut.
Hezbollah warned 25 communities in northern Israel to evacuate Saturday, calling them “legitimate military targets” because Israel was attacking the militant group from there.
Enemies for decades
I S RAEL and Iran have been bitter foes since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Israel considers Iran its greatest threat, citing its leaders’ calls for Israel’s destruction, their support for anti-Israel militant groups and the country’s nuclear program.
During their yearslong shadow war, a suspected Israeli assassination campaign has killed top Iranian nuclear scientists, and Iranian nuclear installations have been hacked or sabotaged. Meanwhile, Iran has been blamed for attacks on shipping in the Middle East.
The shadow war has increasingly moved into the light since Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas and other militants attacked Israel. They killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took some 250 hostages into Gaza. In response, Israel launched a devastating air and ground offensive against Hamas. Some 100 remain, about a third believed to be dead.
More than 42,000 Palestinians have been killed in largely devastated Gaza, according to local health officials, who don’t differentiate between civilians and combatants but say more than half have been women and children.
“Those who were not killed by the bombing are dying from starvation. This is life,” said one woman displaced from northern Gaza, Madallah Abu Zaid. Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Schreck from Jerusalem. Associated Press writers Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran; Abby Sewell in Beirut; Lolita C. Baldor, Farnoush Amiri and Zeke Miller in Washington; David Rising in Bangkok; and Aamer Madhani in Wilmington, Delaware, contributed to this report.
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy says North Korean troops poised to join the war, cancels UN chief’s visit
By Illia Novikov & Efrem Lukatsky The Associated Press
Ky I v Uk raine—North Korean troops are poised to be deployed by r u ssia on the battlefield in Ukraine as early as this weekend, Ukrainian President vo lodymyr Zelenskyy claimed Friday. Western officials have warned that North Korean units joining the fight would stoke the almost three-year war and bring geopolitical consequences as far away as the Indo-Pacific region. The possibility has alarmed leaders and deepened diplomatic tensions.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Friday that the top national security advisers for the United s t ates, Japan and s o uth Korea met and “expressed grave concern” about North Korea’s troop deployments for potential use with r u ssia on the battlefield against Ukraine.
Kirby said that the national security advisers from the three countries “call on r u ssia and the DP r K t o cease these actions that only serve to expand the security implications of r u ssia’s brutal and illegal war beyond e u rope and into the Indo-Pacific.”
“It is possible that there are now more than 3,000 troops from North Korea that have been dispatched to r u ssia for outfitting and for training,” Kirby said on a call with reporters.
Kirby said the U s government did not have firm intelligence assessments on where the troops were going “but we believe it is certainly possible” and “perhaps even likely” that some of the North Korean troops would be deployed to the Kursk region of r u ssia, where Ukraine has held some territory since capturing it in a u gust. But he cautioned that he did not know in what capacity and to what purpose the North Korean troops would be deployed.
a senior official in the Ukrainian presidential office told The a s sociated Press on Friday that Zelenskyy had canceled a planned visit to Kyiv by UN s e cretary-General a ntonio Guterres.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly about the matter, said the visit was supposed to come after this week’s summit in the r u ssian city of Kazan of the B r IC s bloc of developing economies, which Guterres attended.
a photograph of Guterres shaking hands with r u ssian President v l adimir Putin at the summit triggered an outcry in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy, in a post on Telegram, said Ukrainian intelligence had determined
that “the first North Korean military will be used by r u ssia in combat zones” between s u nday and m o nday. He said on Telegram that the deployment was “an obvious escalating move by r u ssia.” He didn’t provide any further details, including where the North Korean soldiers may be sent. r u ssia has been conducting a ferocious summer campaign along the eastern front in Ukraine, gradually compelling Kyiv to surrender ground. But r u ssia has struggled to push Ukrainian forces out of its Kursk border region following an incursion almost three months ago.
North Korean units were detected on Wednesday in Kursk, according to Ukraine’s m ai n Intelligence Directorate, known by its acronym GU r T he soldiers had undergone several weeks of training at bases in eastern r u ssia and had been equipped with clothes for the upcoming winter, GU r said in a statement late Thursday. It estimated the number of North Korean soldiers sent by Pyongyang to r u ssia at around 12,000, including some 500 officers and three generals. GU r provided no evidence for its claims.
Dutch Defense m inister r u ben Brekelmans said Friday on the social platform X that intelligence reports indicated the North Korean soldiers “will probably first be deployed in Kursk.”
The deployment of North Korean forces under a military pact between m o scow and Pyongyang brings a new dimension to the conflict, which is e u rope’s biggest war since World War II and has cost tens of thousands of lives on both sides, including many civilians.
The U s said Wednesday that 3,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to r u ssia and are training at several locations, calling the move very serious. Zelenskyy said a week ago that his government has intelligence information that 10,000 troops from North Korea are being readied to join r u ssian forces fighting against his country. He said that a third nation wading into the hostilities would turn the conflict into a “world war.”
North Korea had already been supplying ammunition to r u ssia under a defense pact, but putting boots on the ground could severely complicate a war that has inflamed international politics, with most Western countries supporting Kyiv. Putin, meanwhile, has looked for support among B r IC s countries. He has neither confirmed nor denied that North Korean troops were in r u ssia. Mike Corder in The Hague and Josh Boak in Washington contributed.
Israeli strikes in northern Gaza kill dozens, Red Cross warns of ‘horrific circumstances’
By Wafaa Shurafa, Samy Magdy & Joseph Krauss
The Associated Press
and buildings in the northern town of Beit l ah iya. It said another 15 people were wounded and that the death toll could rise. It listed the names of those killed, who mostly came from three families. The Israeli military said it carried out a precise strike on militants in a structure in Beit l ah iya and took steps to avoid harming civilians. It disputed what it said were “numbers published by the media,” without elaborating or providing evidence for its own account.
Israel is still carrying out daily strikes across Gaza, even as it wages and air and ground war with the Hezbollah militant group in l e banon. Two people
were wounded after an explosive drone launched from l e banon slammed into a building in an industrial area of northern Israel, authorities said. a n I sraeli airstrike on a southern neighborhood of Beirut sent flames and smoke climbing into the air.
On s at urday, Israeli warplanes attacked military targets in Iran—which backs both Hamas and Hezbollah—in response to an Iranian ballistic missile attack earlier this month.
Iran’s parliament speaker, m o hammad Bagher Qalibaf, followed other senior officials in downplaying the strikes, which state media said had killed four Iranian soldiers. But he said “a response to this
act of aggression is certain, with necessary considerations.”
The cascading conflicts have raised fears of an all-out regional war pitting Israel and the United s t ates against Iran and its militant proxies, which also include the Houthi rebels in ye men and armed groups in s y ria and Iraq.
Red Cross describes ‘horrific circumstances’ in northern Gaza Israel has been waging a massive air and ground offensive in northern Gaza since October 6, after saying that Hamas militants had regrouped there. Hundreds of people have been killed and tens of thousands of Palestinians have fled to Gaza
City in the latest wave of displacement in the yearlong war. Israel says its strikes on Gaza only target militants, and it blames Hamas for civilian casualties because the militants fight in densely populated areas. The military rarely comments on individual strikes, which often kill women and children. a i d groups have warned of a catastrophic situation in northern Gaza, which was the first target of Israel’s ground offensive and had already suffered the heaviest destruction of the war. Israel has severely limited the entry of basic humanitarian aid in recent weeks, and the three remaining hospitals in the north—one of which was raided over the weekend—say they have been overwhelmed by waves of wounded people.
The International Committee of the r e d Cross on s at urday said that ongoing Israeli evacuation orders and restrictions on the entry of essential supplies to the north had left the civilian population in “horrific circumstances.” “ m an y civilians are currently unable to move, trapped by fighting, destruction or physical constraint and now lack access to even
Adversaries ramp up election interference efforts ahead of US vote, national security officials warn
By David Klepper & Eric Tucker
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—A presidential candidate’s phone is hacked. A fake video falsely shows ballots burned in Pennsylvania. National security officials warn that US adversaries may incite violent protests after Election Day.
These developments—all revealed in the past week—show how Russia, China and Iran have increased the pace of efforts to meddle in American politics ahead of next month’s election, just as intelligence officials and security analysts had predicted. At the same time, officials, tech companies and private researchers have adopted a more aggressive defense by swiftly exposing foreign election threats, highlighting the lessons learned from past election cycles that revealed America’s vulnerability to disinformation and cyberespionage.
Officials say the US election system is so secure that no foreign nation could alter the results at a scale necessary to change the outcome. Nevertheless, authoritarian adversaries have leveraged disinformation and cyberespionage to target campaigns and voters while stoking distrust and discord.
Here’s what to know as the presidential election approaches:
Russia is the top threat
RUSSIA i s the most active and sophisticated nation working to manipulate the US election, using fake websites, state-controlled media and unwitting Americans to spread misleading and polarizing content aimed at undermining confidence in elections.
The Kremlin’s disinformation ap -
paratus seizes on contentious issues like immigration, crime, the economy or disaster relief. The goal is to weaken the US, erode support for Ukraine as it fights off Russian invaders and reduce America’s ability to counter Russia’s growing ties to China, North Korea and Iran, officials have said.
Intelligence officials and private security analysts have determined that Russia supports former President Donald Trump, and is using disinformation — sometimes AI-generated — to smear his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump has praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggested cutting funds to Ukraine and repeatedly criticized the NATO military alliance.
In one particularly audacious campaign, Russia staged a video that falsely accused Harris of paralyzing a woman in a car crash years ago. Another video made fictitious allegations against Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
On Friday, the FBI confirmed Moscow’s role in creating a third video supposedly showing the destruction of mail ballots in Pennsylvania. Local election officials quickly debunked the video as false.
Russia also has tried to pay American influencers who spread the Kremlin’s preferred narratives. Last month, US authorities accused two Russian
state media employees of funneling $10 million to a Tennessee company to create pro-Russian content. The company then paid several popular right-wing influencers, who have said they had no idea their work was being supported by Russia.
Moscow’s campaign won’t end on Election Day. Instead, intelligence officials and private security analysts predict Russia will exploit claims of election irregularities to suggest the results can’t be trusted. A recently declassified intelligence memo said Russia may also encourage violent protests after the election.
“Putin’s aim is to foment chaos, division and polarization in our society,” said Michael McFaul, a former US ambassador to Russia who now teaches at Stanford University. Russia has rejected claims that it seeks to influence the US election. A message left with Russia’s embassy in Washington was not immediately returned Saturday.
iranian hack-and-leak operations
I R AN has been a particularly brazen player in foreign interference
Pope Francis’ synod concludes without giving more equity to women in the Catholic Church
VATICAN CITY—Pope Francis’ yearslong process to reform the Catholic Church closed Saturday with recommendations that fell short of giving women more equity as hoped, but reflected the pope’s aims for a church that at least listens more to its followers.
In a significant move, the pope said he would not issue a teaching document from the recommendations, which called for women to be allowed all opportunities that Church law already provides while leaving open the contentious question of permitting women to be ordained as deacons.
As a result, it remains unclear what if any authority or impact the synod’s final recommendations will have, given the purpose of the exercise was to provide the pope with specific proposals on reform.
“In this time of war, we must be witnesses to peace” and give an example of living with differences, the pope said in explaining his decision. Francis said he would continue to listen to the bishops’ counsel, adding “this is not a classic way of endlessly delaying decisions.”
Deacons perform many of the same functions as priests, such as presiding over baptisms, weddings and funerals, but they cannot celebrate Mass. Advocates say allowing women to be deacons would help offset the shortage of priests. Opponents say it would signal the start of a slippery slope toward ordaining women to the allmale priesthood that Francis has repeatedly reaffirmed.
Earlier this week, the Vatican’s top doctrinal officer, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, told the extraordinary assembly of 368 bishops and laypeople—including women— that Francis had said the moment
“is not ripe” for allowing ordination of women as deacons. He did not respond directly to a request to define what would determine “ripeness” for a greater role for women.
The multi-year synod process had sparked great hopes for change, especially for women, who have long complained that they are treated as second-class citizens in the church. Women are barred from the church’s highest ministerial positions, yet do the lion’s share of the work running Catholic hospitals and schools and passing the faith onto future generations.
Speaking to the synod on Thursday, Fernandez explained that a special working group would continue beyond the closing of the meeting, but that its focus would be on discussing the role of women in the church— not in the diaconate, or the office of deacon. He added that while working with women in previous pastoral roles, “most did not ask for or want the diaconate, which would be cumbersome for their lay work.”
The meeting asked for “full implementation of all the opportunities already provided for in Canon Law with regard to the role of women, particularly in those places where they remain under-explored.” It leaves open “the question of women’s access to diaconal ministry.”
It was the most contested paragraph of the final document, with 258 votes for and 97 against. It was not clear if the “no” votes were because the language went too far or not far enough.
Phyllis Zagano, a leading scholar on women deacons, said the “no” votes could indicate it is time for a decision to be made. The outcome is a disappointment
for Catholics who have been campaigning for recognition that women share a spiritual calling that is no different than a man’s. They also noted that despite the inclusion of women in the synodal process, the working group that is guiding discussions on women’s role is being run by the Roman curia, operating outside the synod.
“I think the final document will be received with much disappointment and frustration by many women around the world who are hoping for concrete changes,’’ said Kate McElwee, the executive director of the Women’s Ordination Conference.
While she acknowledged a “cultural shift,” she said “the pace of that shift is perhaps too slow for many women.”
Gay rights activists also expressed disappointment, noting the failure to include LGBTQ+ issues in the final documents. “The laity of the church must now become louder and more vigorous than ever in advocating for reform,’’ said Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry.
The first phase of the synod process ended last year by concluding it was “urgent” to guarantee fuller participation by women in church governance positions, and calling for theological and pastoral research to continue about allowing women to be deacons.
If before the synod the idea of allowing women to be deacons was a fringe proposal pushed by Western progressives, the idea gained attention during the debate. It became something of a litmus test of how far the church was going to go, or not, to address demands of women for greater equality and representation in the church’s highest ranks. AP
this year.
It’s accused of hacking Trump campaign associates and offering the stolen communications to media organizations and Democrats in hopes that damaging stories would emerge that could hurt the Republican’s prospects. E-mails dangling dirt were sent to people associated with President Joe Biden’s campaign, but there’s no indication anyone replied, officials have said.
The Justice Department last month charged three Iranian hackers who remain at large, accusing them of a yearslong operation targeting a vast array of victims.
US officials have described the hacking as part of a broader effort to interfere in an election that Iran perceives as particularly consequential. Iran, they say, has made clear its opposition to the Trump campaign. His administration ended a nuclear deal with Iran, reimposed sanctions and ordered the killing of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani, an act prompting Iran’s leaders to vow revenge.
In addition to the cyberoperations, US officials have repeatedly expressed
concern about the potential for Iran to carry out violence on US soil against Trump or other members of his administration. Officials in 2022 brought charges in a foiled Iranian plot to kill Trump’s national security adviser, John Bolton, and this year charged a Pakistani man with ties to Iran in a plot to carry out political assassinations in the US, including potentially of Trump.
Leaders in Tehran also may try to encourage violent protests after the election, according to the declassified intelligence memo. Authorities say Iran also covertly funded and supported protests in the US over Israel’s war in Gaza.
Iranian authorities have dismissed allegations that the country is seeking to influence the election. Iran’s mission to the United Nations released a statement this week saying, “Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the US election.”
A neutral China?
US intelligence officials believe China is taking a more neutral stance in the election and is focused on down-ballot races, targeting candidates from both parties based on their positions on issues of key importance to Beijing, including support for Taiwan.
But the Chinese government has for years operated a sophisticated hacking operation targeting all manners of Western life and industry that goes well beyond election influence.
“From city council to president, they want access,” said Adam Darrah, a former CIA political analyst who is now vice president of intelligence at the cybersecurity firm ZeroFox, which tracks foreign online threats.
On Friday, news broke that Chinese hackers as part of a much broader espionage effort had targeted cellphones used by Trump, his running mate JD Vance and people associated with Harris’ campaign. It was not im -
mediately clear what data, if any, had been accessed.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington said they were unfamiliar with the details and couldn’t comment but contended that China is routinely victimized by cyberattacks and opposes the activity.
Are these tactics new?
H A RDLY Foreign adversaries, including the same ones blamed for meddling now, have sought to interfere in the last several election cycles—with varying degrees of success.
But the US government, blamed for sitting on information about the scope of Russian interference in the 2016 election, has worked this year to aggressively call out foreign threats as part of an effort to reduce their impact and assure Americans that the election is secure.
In 2016, Russian military intelligence officers hacked into the email accounts of Hillary Clinton’s campaign chairman and the Democratic Party and released tens of thousands of communications in an effort to boost Trump’s successful presidential campaign.
Russia also engaged that year in a huge but hidden social media trolling campaign aimed at sowing discord on hot-button social issues, creating division in the American electoral process and harming Clinton’s bid for president. The antics continued in the 2020 election cycle when a Ukrainian lawmaker described at the time by US officials as an “active Russian agent “released audio recordings of Democrat Joe Biden, who was then running for president.
That same year, Iranian hackers were blamed for e-mails purported to come from the far-right group The Proud Boys that officials said were designed to harm Trump’s candidacy.
indonesia’s forests ravaged by surging international biomass energy demand
By victoria milko The Associated Press
JA k A R tA i ndon esia—Enormous swathes of pristine forest are being cut down across i ndonesia to supply the rapidly rising international demand for biomass material seen as critical to many countries’ transitions to cleaner forms of energy.
Nearly all of the biomass from forests destroyed for wood pellet production since 2021 has been shipped to s o uth k o rea and Japan, t h e Associated Press found in an examination of satellite images, company records and ndonesian export data. b o th countries have provided millions of dollars to support the development of biomass production and use in i ndonesia.
i ndonesia’s state-run utility also has plans to dramatically increase the amount of biomass it burns to make electricity.
Experts and environmentalists fear the rising international and domestic demand, coupled with weak domestic regulation, will accelerate deforestation at the same time it prolongs the use of highly polluting fossil fuels. b omass is organic material like plants, wood and waste, and many coal-fired power plants can be easily modified to burn it alongside coal to make energy.
“ b iomass production—which is only recently starting to be seen on an industrial scale in i ndonesia—is a dire new threat to the country’s forests,” said t mer Manurung, director of Auriga Nusantara, an environmental and conservation organization in i ndonesia.
As countries accelerate their energy transitions, demand for biomass is growing: t he use of bioenergy has increased an average of about 3% per year between 2010 and 2022, the i nternational Energy Agency said.
Experts including the i E A say it’s important for that demand to happen in a sustainable way, such as using waste and crop residue rather than converting for-
estland to grow bioenergy crops. Deforestation contributes to erosion, damages biodiverse areas, threatens wildlife and humans who rely on the forest and intensifies disasters from extreme weather.
And many scientists and environmentalists have rejected the use of biomass altogether. t he y say burning wood-based biomass can emit more carbon than coal and tree-cutting greatly reduces forests’ ability to remove carbon from the atmosphere. Critics also say that using biomass to co-fire, instead of transitioning directly to clean energy, simply prolongs the use of coal.
i n i ndonesia, biomass production is causing deforestation across the archipelago.
Auriga Nusantara reports that more than 9,740 hectares (24,070 acres) of forest have been cleared in areas where biomass production is permitted since 2020. Permits have been issued for over 1.4 million hectares (3,459,475 acres) of energy plantation forests in i ndonesia, with over one-third of that land being undisturbed forest. o v er half of these concession areas are the habitat of flagship species such as s u matran rhino, elephants, orangutans and tigers, said Manurung.
i n the carbon-rich forests of Gorontalo, s u lawesi, the felling, shredding and shipping of old trees to make energydense wood pellets has been streamlined. o v er 3,000 hectares (7,410 acres) of forest have been razed in a concession owned by b an yan tu mbuh l e stari, from 2021 to 2024, according to satellite analysis shared with AP by international environmental organization Mighty Earth. An additional 2,850 hectares (7,040 acres) were cleared for logging roads. After trees are cut down, they’re turned into wood pellets at a facility near the concessions owned by b i omasa Jaya Abadi, the largest exporter of wood pellets from i ndonesia from 2021-2023, according to data Auriga Nusantara compiled from the i ndonesian Ministry of
Environment and Forestry database. t h e database has no records of wood pellet exports prior to 2020. b omasa Jaya Abadi did not respond to repeated requests for interviews or comment. b an yan tu mbuh l e stari do not have contact information publicly available; AP contacted their main shareholders seeking comment but got no response. i ndonesia’s ministries of Environment and Forestry; Energy and Mineral Resources and Maritime Affairs and i nvestment did not respond to requests for comment. Nearly all of i ndonesia’s wood pellet production is shipped overseas to meet international demand, said Alloysius Joko Purwanto, an energy economist at the Economic Research i nstitute for Asean and East Asia.
Most of i ndonesia’s wood pellets went to s o uth k o rea (61 percent) and Japan (38 percent) from 2021-2023, according to government data.
i t ’s clear that Japan and s o uth k ore a’s governments are trying to buy more biomass from ndonesia to lower their own domestic emissions,” said b h ima Yudhistira, executive director of the i ndonesia-based Center of Economic and l a w s t udies.
b o th countries have provided millions of dollars of financial support toward the development of biomass in i ndonesia through research, policy, construction and other support, according to a review of publicly available business and government agreements by AP.
s ou th k ore a’s Forest s e rvice, which drives s o uth k o rea’s biomass expansion and policy, did not reply to requests for comment. Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries also did not respond
Sign S direct voters to a ballot drop-off location on Friday, October 25, 2024, in Washington Park in Denver. AP Photo/D
Global food security at risk as geopolitical tensions escalate
The recent surge in Russian attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure has sent shockwaves through the global food supply chain, with reverberating impacts reaching far beyond the Black Sea region. The UK’s warning of heightened risks posed by these attacks underscores a critical threat to global food shipments.
At the heart of this crisis lies Ukraine, a vital player in the global grain market. With Russia’s assaults coinciding with the crucial harvest season, not only is Ukraine’s agriculture-reliant economy under immediate threat, but the specter of food insecurity looms large over nations that depend on Ukrainian grain exports.
The implications of these targeted assaults extend beyond immediate disruptions to food shipments. The escalating geopolitical tensions have set off a domino effect, causing ripples across commodity prices and interest rates on a global scale. Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto’s warning at the recent G-24 press briefing in Washington, DC serves as a clarion call to the economic risks posed by such geopolitical upheavals. (Read the BusinessMirror story, “Geopolitics fueling hikes in prices, rates,” October 24, 2024).
Recto’s call for a more agile and resolute response from international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank is not just timely but imperative. The proposed reforms to the Bretton Woods international monetary system, aimed at bolstering support for developing countries in times of crisis and ensuring sustainable development goals by 2030, underscore the urgent need for coordinated action on a global scale.
The immense costs of conflicts and humanitarian crises around the world demand swift and decisive intervention to avert further destabilization. The G-24’s emphasis on improved governance and institutional reforms within the international financial architecture points towards a path forward that prioritizes inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience in the face of mounting challenges.
As we navigate the turbulent waters of geopolitical uncertainty and economic volatility, it is incumbent upon the international community to rally behind a shared vision of peace, stability, and prosperity for all. The road to achieving a sustainable and inclusive future by 2030 is fraught with obstacles, but with concerted efforts, strategic priorities, and unwavering international cooperation, it remains within reach.
To alleviate the devastating effects of Russia’s destructive actions, it is imperative to prioritize diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict, protect critical infrastructure, and guarantee the unimpeded supply of vital food and commodities. Only then can we truly mitigate the harm caused by this crisis and pave the way for a more stable and food-secure future for all affected nations.
The optimism expressed by Secretary Recto regarding achieving a sustainable and inclusive future by 2030 is commendable, but it hinges critically on prioritizing international cooperation and addressing the root causes of this crisis. The ongoing attacks on Ukrainian ports are not merely a regional conflict; they are a global challenge demanding a concerted international response. Failure to address this situation decisively will have far-reaching and devastating consequences for global food security and economic stability.
Dignity in giving
TRISING SUN
he recent typhoon has, once again, opened up opportunities to help our kababayans who were affected by Kristine— those who lost their homes, properties, even loved ones. It’s easy to withdraw funds and put a brand (or an official’s name) on hygiene kits and t-shirts before giving them away. It’s quite simple to have tarpaulin signages printed and displayed at relief distribution areas. Or to rummage through cabinets at home and stuff all our unwanted belongings into sacks or garbage bags and drop them off at donation centers.
These actions could be seen as mindless giving, yet those who receive our offerings of support deserve much more. Above all, they need to keep their dignity intact. Imagine enduring a devastating experience like losing your home or a loved one to a powerful typhoon. In difficult moments like this, people need to feel uplifted—not just handed noodles and sardines or given party clothes or neon-colored pants. The goal should be for our care packages to convey genuine empathy. We want these gifts to feel like an embrace when we can’t be there to offer one in person. We hope to share messages like, “You’ve got this,” “I’m cheering you on,” or “We’re in this together,” so each package provides
Before we give anything, we need to clarify our intentions. Are we simply trying to clear out items we no longer need, or are we genuinely committed to improving the lives of those in need? Responsible giving is more than making a donation; it requires thoughtful planning and honest reflection on our true motivations.
more than just nourishment but also a sense of support, care, and dignity—often the last thing someone holds onto when almost everything else has been lost.
Before we give anything, we need to clarify our intentions. Are we simply trying to clear out items we no longer need, or are we genuinely committed to improving the lives of those in need? Responsible giving is more than making a donation; it requires thoughtful planning and honest reflection on our true motivations.
It’s common to see images and videos of beneficiaries in vulnerable moments—waiting in line for aid, resting on floors of evacuation centers, or crying as they’re rescued. Before posting or sharing these images, think: if that were you in the photo, would you want it shared widely?
When we capture images of people in their most vulnerable states, we risk taking away their dignity and adding a “second disaster” to their struggles. Instead, let’s give in a way that inspires hope and builds self-esteem, which they need now more than ever. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t need to look pitiful to attract more help. How about showing positivity, cooperation, or hope amid the disaster? I believe that will work so much better. Make sure your gift allows the recipient to feel respected and valued. Often, it’s not what or how much you give that matters, but the care with which you give it. A simple guideline to follow is the Golden Rule: treat others as you’d want to be treated.
Banks’ failure to flag anti-money laundering activities may result in FATF blacklist
TLITO GAGNI
he Quad Comm hearings at the house of Representatives have unwittingly resulted in a slew of revelations that have gripped the nation. however, one concerning discovery regarding banking practices could jeopardize the country’s efforts to leave the anti-money laundering grey list, potentially leading to a blacklist.
As of now, the Philippines is listed in the so-called financial grey list, together with 20 others that include Namibia, Mozambique, South Africa, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Inclusion in the grey list means that the remittances from OFWs are subject to stringent conditions that lead to undue delays. In several hearings of the Quad Comm, there were revelations when banks ran roughshod over the regulations of the AntiMoney Laundering Council, such as deposits in billions that were not apparently reported to the AMLC. This fact was revealed by Congressman Bishop Benny Abante during the Monday Circle forum at the Westin Hotel where he cited the possibility of having
bank presidents being invited as resource persons.
Rep. Abante said that the Quad Comm has identified several big deposits where the AMLC was not given any notice, much to the chagrin of the legislators. In fact, there was even one noticeable goings-on that the legislators found out where funds were withdrawn immediately after the huge deposits were revealed during the hearings. He said that P8 billion in one bank deposit was withdrawn the next day, leaving the Anti-Money Laundering Council bewildered. And to think that there were 18 action points that the country has to address for it to exit the financial grey list. With the Quad Comm revelations though, especially on banks that
According to Rep. Abante, Quad Comm discovered the extent to which banks have bypassed standard banking procedures. This negligence encompasses the inadequate enforcement of KYC (know-your-client) regulations, enabling banks to process multimillion deposits despite suspicions regarding the questionable source of these funds.
ripped off the anti-money laundering rules of the AMLC, the Financial Action Task Force, the global organization that oversees anti-money laundering activities in the banks of countries, may even put the Philippines on its financial blacklist.
This could be the reason why the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP), the umbrella organization of banks, is being asked to use moral suasion so that the Quad Comm will not pursue its intent to get to the bottom of the missing deposits.
We understand that three big banks are in the crosshairs of the Quad Comm for having allowed huge deposits that were not flagged and reported to the AMLC. Such violations, when investigated and proven true by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, will mean stiff monetary fines as
they result in endangering the safety and stability of the banking system. Since 2021, the country has been listed in the financial grey list, which results in undue burden for customers. The FATF has listed 18 action plans and it would seem that on the matter of addressing the concerns on anti-money laundering activities, the Philippines has hit rock-bottom with the revelations on POGO activities. According to Rep. Abante, Quad Comm discovered the extent to which banks have bypassed standard banking procedures. This negligence encompasses the inadequate enforcement of KYC (know-your-client) regulations, enabling banks to process multimillion deposits despite suspicions regarding the questionable source of these funds. Under anti-money laundering rules, banks are duty-bound to check whether the deposits, especially billions, are supposed to have come from business operations or from legitimate enterprises. Under the AMLC rules, banks are not allowed to accept deposits of “dirty” money such as those from drugs or other illegitimate sources. The Quad Comm is in a quandary with the results of its investigation that reveal the
of banks to
they were getting.
Atty. Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II
Current and future state of the accountancy profession
By Marvin Galang
Second part
ICOntIn UE my article on the the state of the accounting profession. Over the past seven years as both an accounting enthusiast and a tech entrepreneur, I have developed a profound connection to the accounting field and the challenges it faces. Beyond my entrepreneurial pursuits, I have come to deeply appreciate the demanding work our professionals undertake—balancing client needs, government regulations, and financial obligations. I have also reflected on the role of government in our profession, considering how it should or should not influence our work, and on the ability of our professionals to rise to the complex demands placed upon them.
Navigating the increasingly complex regulatory environment is a growing challenge. The Philippines has aligned its accounting standards with international ones, such as the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and International Standards on Auditing (ISA). While this alignment promotes global consistency, it also adds complexity to the work of accountants, who must stay updated with the frequent changes and revisions to these standards.
The Philippine government has implemented various tax reforms, like the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, and the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprise or (CREATE), which introduced new tax policies, including changes in income tax rates and value-added tax regulations. Accountants need to navigate these changes, ensuring compliance and proper application for their clients, which increases their workload and requires continuous learning.
Regulatory bodies like the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board of Accountancy (BOA) have heightened their oversight of the profession. This includes stricter monitoring of continuing professional development requirements, audit quality, and ethical conduct. Accountants must ensure they meet these evolving standards, or they risk penalties or suspension.
Given this backdrop, the future of accounting may seem daunting. Yet, within these challenges lie significant opportunities for those who are prepared to adapt and innovate. Allow me to summarize it into three: Purpose, People, and Technology.
The accounting profession has
long been rooted in the fundamental goal of fostering trust. As the interpreters of business language, we translate complex financial information into clear and understandable terms for business owners, investors, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
However, our role as accountants is expanding beyond numbers. As more businesses and consumers prioritize environmental responsibility, accountants are uniquely positioned to guide clients through their climate obligations. This involves more than just reducing paper usage—it’s about integrating environmental costs with financial strategies to create sustainable business models.
On May 18, 2017, we proudly launched JuanTax in this very hall, in front of 200 professionals and guests. With the unwavering support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the BIR, our firm partners, and our clients, we have achieved significant, measurable results in promoting clean sanitation and water, climate action, and life on land. Furthermore, we have made meaningful contributions toward five other Sustainable Development Goals: gender equality, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, peace, justice, and strong institutions, and partnerships for the goals.These are very important issues that the accountancy profession should address.
To be continued
Marvin Galang is the co-founder of Beppo, JuanTax, and Double Rule, which are fin-tech and tax apps in the Philippine market. He was previously connected with Procter & Gamble, Xero, KPMG, and E&Y.
In aid of persecution
WSiegfred Bueno Mison, Esq.
THE PATRIOT
First of three parts
hat do Gerardo Padilla, Katherine Cassandra “Cassy” Li Ong, a lberto Rodulfo “aR” De La Serna, Royina Garma, Benjamin acorda Jr., Oscar a lbayalde, Leila de Lima, harry Roque, Fernando P. Magdadaro, Leopoldo Untalan tan Jr., tomas Osmeña, a lice Guo, Liseldo Calugay, Jed Patrick Mabilog, Kerwin Espinosa, Edilberto Leonardo, Santie Mendoza, and Jovie Espenido have in common? they all appeared at least once before the Quad Committee of the house of Representatives, composed of the Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, human Rights, and Public accounts. Other officials have been invited—former and incumbent government officials and even detained prisoners in relation to the task of the Quad Committee of conducting a comprehensive investigation into the possible connection of illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) with illegal drugs, extrajudicial killings (EJKs) and human rights violations. thus far, this Committee has conducted nine public hearings, some of which have extended up to the wee hours of the day.
These congressional hearings are anchored on Section 21, Article VI of the 1987 Constitution, which provides: “The Senate or the House of Representatives or any of its respective committees may conduct inquiries in aid of legislation in accordance with its duly published rules of procedure. The rights of persons appearing in or affected by such inquiries shall be respected.” In the 1950 landmark case of Arnault v. Nazareno, the Court said that “inquiries in aid of legislation are undertaken as tools to enable the legislative body to gather information and, thus, legislate wisely and effectively.” In the 2008 case of Neri v. Senate Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations, the Court emphasized that these hearings are sanctioned to determine whether there is a need to improve existing laws or enact new ones, although the legislative inquiry may not result in any legislation. For legislative committee members to extract the relevant information for Congress to be guided in legislating wisely or effectively, they have
Gagni . . .
continued from A8
is rife on whether the Quad Comm will pursue or not its further investigation into the banks’ role in the
to be skilled in the art of extracting information, similar to how lawyers conduct cross-examination. Hence, as some have observed, members of the Quad Committee who are neither trained in the field of law nor in law enforcement find difficulty in asking the right questions to get to the appropriate responses. Fortunately, a handful of lawmakers have shown competence in eliciting the answers closer to the truth we all desire. In the past, former Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, whose feisty demeanor can either intimidate witnesses into submission or outwit them into deference, has exhibited how to conduct a good cross-examination in any legislative inquiry.
Two things are clearly visible in these Quad Committee hearings. First, the hearings “in aid of persecution” appear to successfully link the extrajudicial killings to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs. One by one, perhaps fearing the contempt powers of the Committee, witnesses and resource persons have spoken against their superiors leading to startling confessions,
acceptance of big deposits. Meanwhile, as speculation shifts to the BAP’s move on the matter, there is a big problem staring the Philippines in the face, the possibility of it being lumped with Iran, Myanmar and North Korea, in
Since it’s election season, some are using these hearings as platforms to gain media mileage. A number of them have been quick to pronounce a witness/resource person as guilty even before the latter could even utter any word. And the stigma from this prejudgment relentlessly sears the victim. Should these continue, it’s a slippery slope that can further erode public confidence in our democracy.
which can serve as useful reference by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Incidentally, the ICC has resumed its investigation in the Philippines, to determine the accountability of certain officials for the extrajudicial killings in the country. These hearings have also implicated others in unsolved crimes, one case in particular is the murder of retired General Barayuga, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1983. Some of Barayuga’s classmates are quick to appreciate the Quad Committee members whose questions led to the identification of the alleged masterminds behind the killing of their “mistah” (batchmate), although criminal charges have yet to be filed by the Department of Justice. Second is the fact that these hearings, in their entirety, are shown “live” in several channels. As a result, some of those who appear in these hearings have been vilified, not only by some of the inquisitorial Committee members but by the thousands of viewers on social media who have outnumbered those who watch the current blockbuster telenovela aired on free TV. Sadly, empathy can hardly be seen in these Committee hearings. Some viewers have been quick to judge although evidence of supposed liability is anchored on bare testimonies, similar to how Leila de Lima was persecuted, incarcerated, and eventually freed but only after nearly seven years. Should former president Rodrigo Duterte appear in any of these hearings, he would likely undergo a similar persecutorial exercise as De Lima experienced
the blacklist, which will affect the country’s financial transactions on a global scale.
According to the FATF, “failure to address the remaining action plan items would have put the Philippines at risk of entering the blacklist. FATF
during her senatorial stint. Believers are taught not to judge —“For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Matthew 7:2). Those who judge without looking at their own are hypocrites, according to Romans 2:1 in the Bible, “You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.” Believers are commanded to stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.” (John 7:24). Jumping to conclusions before a fair investigation is foolish, just like how a Pharisee construed the woman with the alabaster jar that she used to anoint Jesus (Luke 7:40-50). In other words, there is a correct way to judge, that is, under the law of the land, due process must be observed. Have the inquiries therefore been undertaken “in aid of legislation” or “in aid of persecution”? Some congressional committee members and ordinary viewers alike do not seem to consider some questions in the pursuit of the constitutional mandate to review an old or formulate a new legislative policy. Since it’s election season, some are using these hearings as platforms to gain media mileage. A number of them have been quick to pronounce a witness/resource person as guilty even before the latter could even utter any word. And the stigma from this pre-judgment relentlessly sears the victim. Should these continue, it’s a slippery slope that can further erode public confidence in our democracy.
To be continued in part 2
A former infantry and intelligence officer in the Army, Siegfred Mison showcased his servant leadership philosophy in organizations such as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Malcolm Law Offices, Infogix Inc., University of the East, Bureau of Immigration, and Philippine Airlines. He is a graduate of West Point in New York, Ateneo Law School, and University of Southern California. A corporate lawyer by profession, he is an inspirational teacher and a Spirit-filled writer with a mission. For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.
member countries impose restrictions and additional checks, and possibly refusal of financial transactions with countries in the blacklist. This results in failed transactions, delays, and costs that may be passed on to the consumers.”
GDP, storm-impacted jobs numbers to set table ahead of Fed policy meeting
By Vince Golle and Craig Stirling
aWEEK before Federal Reserve officials gather to reflect on the appropriate tempo of interest-rates cuts, three high-profile reports are set to show underlying resilience in the US economy and a temporary hiccup in job growth.
Friday’s employment report, expected to show a modest 110,000 increase in payrolls—about half this year’s average gain of 200,000 —will reflect hits to the labor market from two hurricanes as well as a work stoppage at aircraft maker Boeing Co. The unemployment rate is forecast to hold at 4.1 percent.
Economists expect Fed policymakers to discount these temporary factors and lower rates a quarter percentage point at their November 6-7 meeting. While officials are confident that price pressures are generally abating, a separate report is forecast to show the central bank’s preferred gauge of underlying inflation accelerated at the end of September.
The personal consumption expenditures price index, excluding volatile food and energy costs, is seen rising 0.3 percent, the most in five months. The report on Thursday is also expected to show consumer spending and personal income strengthened in September from a month earlier, indicating
momentum in the largest part of the economy.
“We expect October’s US payrolls report to show the first negative jobs print since December 2020, well below the consensus forecast of 120k. Much of the weakness is due to weather-related disruptions, but we also see a slowdown in cyclical sectors,” said Bloomberg economists Anna Wong, Stuart Paul, Eliza Winger, Estelle Ou and Chris G. Collins.
On Wednesday, the government will also issue its first estimate of third-quarter gross domestic product, and forecasts call for a solid 3% annualized pace that would match growth seen in the previous three months. In addition to robust consumer spending, GDP was likely bolstered by a pickup in business outlays for equipment.
Other reports this week include September job openings, third-quarter employment costs and October consumer confidence. The Institute for Supply Management will also release its October manufacturing index.
In Canada, GDP data will show if the economy is on track to hit the Bank of Canada’s forecast of 1.5 percent annualized growth in the third quarter. Officials previously estimated 2.8 percent growth but revised that down as they cut rates by 50 basis points on October 23. Among appearances, Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem and his colleague Carolyn Rogers will speak to lawmakers about that decision.
Elsewhere, the UK’s closely watched budget announcement, euro-zone inflation and growth numbers, the Bank of Japan’s rate decision and purchasing manager indexes showing the health of China’s economy will be among the highlights.
Asia
CHINA S PMIs loom large in the coming week, with policymakers, economists and investors keen to gauge the current strength of the underperforming economy.
It’s probably too soon to see if recent stimulus measures are having any initial impact, but if services and construction activity joins the factory sector in declining, calls for more efforts from Beijing are likely to mount.
The BOJ meets Thursday and is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged. With renewed weakness in the yen likely on the mind of
policymakers, market players will be looking out for any hawkish signals that suggest that the next hike is in the pipeline for December or not.
Elsewhere, Australia reports on price growth on Wednesday, with prices expected to slow, but likely not by enough to reignite near-term rate cut talk.
Indonesia and Pakistan also release inflation figures, while Hong Kong and Taiwan report on GDP.
PMIs from around Asia out Friday will give an indication of how the region’s economy is performing beyond China, as will trade figures from Thailand, Hong Kong, and South Korea.
Europe, Middle East, Africa
THE first glimpses of hard data that the European Central Bank will use to tailor its next easing move in December will be released this week, at a time when investors have increasingly priced in the chance of a halfpoint rate reduction.
While signs of weakening are emerging, third-quarter GDP numbers on Wednesday are anticipated to show the economy sustained a 0.2 percent pace of growth, after buoyancy in Spain and steady expansion in France and Italy made up for a German recession.
Euro-zone inflation on Thursday is predicted by economists to have quickened slightly to 1.9 percent,
just below the ECB’s 2 percent target, with Germany’s outcome even exceeding the goal.
Such results would conform to policymakers’ forecasts of a temporary pickup before price growth then settles around the goal in the first half of next year.
Elsewhere in Europe, Swiss inflation is predicted to have stayed steady at 0.8 percent, well below the central bank’s ceiling. Economists forecast a further rate cut in December.
In the UK, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves will unveil the first budget of the newly elected Labour government on Wednesday, potentially one of Britain’s most significant fiscal announcements for years to come.
She faces a tight balancing act, with the International Monetary Fund advising a ramp-up in public investment, but also a push to repair its finances in the longer term.
Reeves is poised to overhaul fiscal rules that could allow much more borrowing for capital spending, while she is also likely to target investors to raise the tax take.
South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana will present his own annual mid-term budget on Wednesday.
This will be the first since a multiparty government was formed with the centrist Democratic Alliance and eight other smaller rivals af-
ter the African National Congress lost its outright majority in May 29 elections.
Godongwana’s speech will be closely watched for news on efforts to rein in runaway state debt, new economic growth targets and how the government with back President Cyril Ramaphosa’s pledge to turn the country into a construction site— including details on a credit-guarantee facility to boost private sector involvement in the plan.
Latin America
THE flash third-quarter economic output data from Mexico can be expected to show Latin America’s No. 2 economy is downshifting into year-end.
The consensus of analysts is that growth will slow for a third year in 2024 and likely yet again in 2025. Unemployment data for September will likely show a sixth straight rise. Even so, at just around 3 percent, joblessness is still well below its long-term average. By contrast, September data should show Chile’s labor market is still operating with some degree of slack while copper output in the top-producing country will likely show that recovery from 20-year lows pushed ahead. With assistance from Paul
Jackson, Robert Jameson, Monique Vanek, Laura Dhillon Kane, Tom Rees and Shiyin Chen/ Bloomberg
DA: Tropical storm damage to agri sector hits P3.11B
TRESEARCHERS EXPLAIN HOW TYPHOONS LOSE STRENGTH
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
CBy Ada Pelonia
ROPICAL storm Kristine (international code name Trami) destroyed agricultural products worth P3.11 billion, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said over the weekend.
In its latest bulletin, the DA said the volume of production losses in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Western and Eastern Visayas, Soccksargen, and Caraga Region reached 160,107 metric tons (MT).
The rice sector suffered the brunt of Kristine as farmers lost 152,440 MT of grains. The storm also damaged 6,014 MT of high-value crops and 1,461 MT of corn. According to the DA, standing rice and corn crops damaged by the storm were in the reproductive and maturity stages.
Th e livestock and poultry sector also lost 2,862 heads, which include swine, chicken, cattle, carabao, goat, sheep, and ducks. The value of damage reached P3.73 million, according to the DA.
It noted that the damage sustained by the fisheries sector was valued at P11.20 million.
The storm’s damage to agricultural infrastructure and irrigation facilities amounted to more than P67 million, the agency said.
K ristine affected 74,554 farmers tilling 72,329 hectares (ha) of agricultural areas. Of this, the DA said 45,530 hectares had a chance of recovery.
To help producers recover, the DA
The agency said losses in rice were equivalent to P2.87 billion; high-value crops, P121.08 million; corn, P22.27 million; and cassava, P6.55 million.
said it has put in place interventions, such as the distribution of P541.02million worth of agricultural inputs, such as rice, corn, and vegetable seeds as well as drugs and biologics for the livestock and poultry sector.
B ags of rice stocks from the National Food Authority were distributed as relief by local government units, the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other relief agencies to the affected families.
Th e DA said available funds from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) will be disbursed to indemnify affected farmers.
The agency encouraged farmers
to tap the P500-million Survival and Recovery (SURE) Loan Program from the Agricultural Credit Policy Council, which will allow them to take out a loan of up to P25,000 which is payable in three years at zero interest.
As the assessments continue, further damage and losses are expected in the affected regions,” the DA said.
Hence, the DA through its Regional Field Offices is continuously working with concerned Local Government Units, and other DRRMrelated offices to address the impact of ‘Kristine,’ and to utilize available resources for assistance to the affected farmers,” it added.
ONTRARY to popular belief, mountain ranges like the Sierra Madre and the Cordillera do not significantly weaken typhoons.
Researchers from the University of the Philippines Diliman explained that a typhoon loses strength primarily when it moves away from its main energy source, which is the ocean. Once separated from the ocean’s moisture and heat, its intensity naturally declines.
The study drew public attention after one of the researchers, Bernard Alan Racoma, shared the findings in a Facebook post last October 26, following Typhoon Kristine’s (international name: Tami) onslaught.
Kinailangan pa naming doblehin ang tangkad ng Cordillera Mountain Range (na mas matangkad sa Sierra Madre Mountain Range) bago pa kami nakakita ng significant weakening effect. In short, mahina ang epekto ng mga bundok natin ngayon sa lakas ng bagyo,” he commented on his post.
The team analyzed tropical cyclone behavior over different simulated topographies—Flat (no mountains), Reduced (mountain height lowered), and Enhanced (mountain height increased)—assessing how storms’ intensity, movement, and direction shifted under each condition.
To better understand moun-
tains’ influence on typhoons, researchers used the Weather Research and Forecasting model to simulate typhoon scenarios with and without Luzon’s rugged topography.
Results showed that while the Sierra Madre partially shields areas like Catanduanes and eastern Bicol from direct wind impact, it could also increase rainfall on both its eastern and western slopes.
T his interaction, known as the orographic effect, tends to concentrate rainfall, which could worsen flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
The study further showcased that although the Cordillera range is somewhat more effective than the Sierra Madre at reducing wind intensity, especially for westward-moving typhoons, rainfall risks around its slopes remain high.
Water-related damage, often more severe than wind impacts during typhoons, also remains a critical concern. Even if mountains can reduce wind speed slightly, they have limited influence on overall storm behavior.
Notably, the Sierra Madre reduces wind exposure by up to 20 percent in the Cagayan Valley but increases rainfall along western slopes by 23 percent to 48 percent and, in Metro Manila, by up to 55 percent.
See “Typhoons,” A2
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
PSE may hit ₧140B-₧150B in capital raising next year
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE)
Inc., the operator of the country’s equities market, said it may reach capital raising done with the bourse to hit between P140 billion to P150 billion next year due to some blockbuster deals.
PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon said there were three to four major initial public offerings (IPOs) by next year “and also some small and medium ones.” The target IPOs for next year would be at six companies, added Monzon.
Two of the big deals would come via West Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc., which could raise as much as $1 billion, and via Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc., the operator of Okada Manila operator, which is an integrated resort and casino in Entertainment City.
“They (Maynilad) have not applied yet but I’ve already talked to them,” Monzon said. Maynilad is jointly owned by Metro Pacific Investments Corp., DMCI Holdings Inc. and Marubeni Corp. of Japan.
Monzon said the SM group’s real estate investment trust may not be done by next year as the Sy group was not keen on creating a Real Estate Investment Trust. Meanwhile, he said the IPO of Enrique Razon Jr.’s Prime
Infrastructure Capital Inc. was still “premature.”
The IPO of the GCash operator, meanwhile, is still on the table, but their problem was on their recent valuation of $5 billion, which was too high, Monzon said.
“Then there were new investors that came in. For sure that $5 billion will grow to about $8 billion. And 20 percent of that is about $1.6 billion,” he added.
The 20 percent is the minimum public float required by the PSE on new listings.
The capital raising include followon offering, stock rights offering and private placement.
For the year, the PSE only expects around P89 billion in capital raising, or about more than half of the previous year’s P141 billion.
So far, the PSE only had three IPOs, one stock rights offering, six follow-on offerings and seven private placements.
Meanwhile, the Securities
and Exchange Commission has approved the IPO of Cebu-based gas station operator Top Line Business Development Corp. (pre-PSE: TOP) for up to P2.87 billion. Its listing at the PSE is scheduled next month.
TOP will only be the fourth IPO for the year, following OceanaGold (Philippines) Inc., Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. and NexGen Energy Corp.
For the first half of the year, the PSE reported a drop in net income of 4 percent to P398.02 million from P417.51 million in the previous year.
Revenues from operations decreased by 2 percent to P722.74 million from the previous P740.09 million mainly due to 1 percent or P90.7 billion lower trading value for the period and P31.57 million lower revenue from listing-related revenues
The lower trading value for the first half of 2024 generated lower income from service fees by P16.2 million and transaction fees by P9.07 million, the PSE said.
SMGP unit gets Sual coal plant
TBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
HE government, through the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. ( P SA LM ), has turned over the 1,200-megawatt (MW) Sual Coal Fired Thermal Power Plant (CFTPP) in Pangasinan to Sual Power Inc. (SPI), a subsidiary of San Miguel Global Power (SMGP).
The Sual CTTP has been providing electricity to the Luzon grid since 1999 under a build, operate and transfer (BOT) scheme between TeaM Energy Corp. and the Philippine government, then represented by the National Power Corp. (NPC), that ended on October 25. SPI was appointed as the independent power producer (IPP)
administrator for the Sual power plant under an administration agreement signed in 2009. IPPAs are qualified private sector entities that manage the output from the contracts that NPC entered into with the independent power producers.
On the same day of TeaM Energy’s transfer of the Sual CFTPP to NPC and Psalm, SPI received the facility from Psalm. This was pursuant to the IPPA Administration Agreement between SPI and Psalm. SPI’s IPPA Administration Agreement with Psalm that ended on the day of the transfer of the plant to Psalm from TeaM Energy, giving it the right to take ownership of the plant.
“We completed last October 25 the turn-over of the Sual Power Station to NPC and Psalm,” said Mitsuhiro Kojima, Officer in Charge of TeaM
Energy.
“For the past year, there has been close coordination with NPC, Psalm and [SPI] to ensure a seamless transition process. The plant has been turned over in excellent condition, ready to continue generating electricity for the Luzon grid,” he added.
For more than 25 years, the Sual Power Station has contributed to the development of the Philippines by generating reliable, cost-effective energy.
“The TeaM Energy organization is especially proud to have done its share in helping the Philippines recover from the Covid-19 pandemic despite the challenges and obstacles we faced in running the plant during those days,” Kojima said.
Located in the municipality of Sual in Pangasinan, the 1,200 MW net coal-
fired facility consists of two 600-MW net generating units. The facility is one of the largest power plants in the country. Its presence has helped transform Sual from a fifth-class municipality in 1994, into a thriving, progressive first-class municipality at present.
Kojima expressed gratitude to several entities “for enabling the Sual plant’s success.”
“We will be leaving the plant in the hands of a capable, highlyrespected organization. It has been a great pleasure working with them,” he added.
TeaM Energy will continue to operate the 735 MW Pagbilao Power Station in Quezon Province. It also maintains a 50-percent stake in the 420 MW Pagbilao Unit 3 Power Project.
DigiPlus expands RD unit NGCP cited for role in economy
PUBLICLY- LI STED D igiPlus Interactive Corp. (PSE: PLUS) announced it is expanding its research and development team, launching a bootcamp to develop Filipino games.
According to the company behind “BingoPlus” and “ArenaPlus,” it is launching a “Technology Bootcamp” to foster Filipino tech talents, which the firm hopes would develop products tailored specifically to Filipino audiences.
“Innovation is part of our DNA at DigiPlus; and we are driven by a commitment to elevate the player experience with the right technology,” PLUS Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco said.
“Our R&D team is at the heart of this transformation, and we are on the lookout for the brightest Filipino tech talents to develop the next generation of products that will shape the future of DigiPlus,” Tanco added.
According to him, the first batch of their bootcamp began last September 30 with 34 participants.
“Those who successfully pass all evaluations and meet the required qualifications will have a strong opportunity to be hired as regular employees by the end of their training course,” Tanco said.
Over the past year, PLUS tripled its local development team, with plans to double that growth by end of the year.
Since its digital pivot in 2022, the company has allocated significant
resources to research and technology, enabling PLUS to develop platforms and Filipino games that set it apart from competition.
The company said its bootcamp is an intensive five-month program designed to equip aspiring tech professionals with the technical mastery, hands-on experience and mentorship needed to excel in the fast-evolving digital landscape.
The program covers core technical skills to advanced projects, utilizing the latest tools, frameworks, and methodologies that drive innovation in digital entertainment.
The company said it is also hiring for backend and frontend operations, iOS, Android and quality assurance roles, with each position paired with dedicated mentors. The company’s advanced quality assurance program stands out as it offers fresh graduates immediate immersion in a highly technical environment, enabling them to work directly on product development from day one.
The company is known for its popular “Perya Games.” The recently-launched “Pinoy Drop Ball” brings traditional Filipino carnival-style gaming to digital platforms, making these games accessible to players across the nation.
“This fusion of cultural heritage and advanced technology reflects [our] dedication to honoring Filipino roots while redefining digital entertainment,” the company said. VG Cabuag
AS a testament to its pivotal role in advancing the nation’s infrastructure and contributing to the country’s economic growth, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) was awarded the prestigious “Country Movers” award by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).
The largest business organization in the Philippines, representing various sectors and industries, the PCCI is dedicated to promoting and supporting the growth and development of Philippine businesses through advocacy, networking and capacitybuilding initiatives.
In a statement, the NGCP explained the “Country Movers” award is given to corporations that have undertaken projects of national significance and continue to contribute to job creation, poverty alleviation and building sustainable, resilient and inclusive growth.
“We are grateful for the recognition from a prestigious institution like PCCI. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team and a reflection of the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in
October 28, 2024
SMDC hands over socialized homes
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes
SM Development Corp. (SMDC), the residential arm of the Sy family-led SM Prime Holdings Inc. (PSE: SMPH), recently made a bold move in boosting affordable housing through strategic partnerships with local governments.
In a symbolic turnover, SMDC handed over the keys to Kauswagan Residences, the first vertical socialized housing project in Iloilo City—further advancing the government’s efforts to reduce the 6.5 million housing backlog.
The P248-million Kauswagan Residences is a collaboration between SMDC, the Iloilo City Government and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). The development, located in Barangay San Isidro, Jaro, serves as an accessible and affordable housing solution for Iloilo City Government employees, reaffirming SMDC’s commitment to socialized housing.
“This project underscores SMDC’s commitment to supporting the government’s socialized housing program,” said SMPHI President Jeffrey C. Lim. “We are proud to deliver high-quality homes for Filipino workers and contribute to building thriving communities.”
Designed with the working class in mind, Kauswagan Residences features two fourstory buildings with 30-square-meter units, ample parking spaces and proximity to the city center—just 6.5 kilometers from Iloilo City Hall. The location provides easy access to essential services, making it a practical choice for local government employees.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas commended the partnership, noting that the project offers a replicable model for future collaborations between the government and the private sector.
“The City Government of Iloilo is grateful for the strong partnership with SDMC. Through the Kauswagan Residences, we are providing working-class families with affordable homes, a critical need in our city. This project sets a benchmark for publicprivate collaborations in housing and we hope it will be replicated in other regions,” Treñas said.
Lim said SMDC has committed over
P1.108 billion to the Philippine government’s socialized housing program, building housing developments since 2012. These projects cover land development, land acquisition and the construction of socialized housing units across the country, in partnership with local government units (LGUs) and the DHSUD.
In addition to Kauswagan Residences, SMDC has utilized its P1.108-billion commitment to support other housing projects nationwide. These include: the land development for a socialized housing project in Barrio Lasang, Davao City (P320 million); construction of 300 homes for Typhoon Yolanda survivors in Salcedoville, Barangay Tagbacan, Eastern Samar (P184.4 million); the Bayanihan Gawad Kalinga Village in Dasmariñas City, Cavite (P192.1 million); and, a housing program in Indigo Subdivision, Barangay Basbasa, Tayum, Abra, consisting of 126 housing units set for turnover by 2025.
Beyond its socialized housing contributions, SMDC has also launched Style Residences—its first premium development in Iloilo City. Located within the city’s Lifestyle District and adjacent to SM City Iloilo, this five-tower complex offers over 2,900 residential units. The development features high-end amenities such as swimming pools, landscaped gardens and function rooms, catering to the growing demand for upscale urban living in Iloilo.
In 2021, SMDC launched Glade Residences in Jaro, Iloilo. Featuring 11 four-story buildings, the mid-rise development blends modern living with heritage preservation. With lush open spaces, vertical gardens and a future SM shopping center, this development offers 8,800 sqm of amenities and landscaped areas, including a rain catchment system and cistern tanks. It’s a perfect mix of style, sustainability and value.
Through projects like Kauswagan Residences, Style and Glade Residences, Lim said SMDC remains committed to building life-centered communities, where Filipinos can lead fulfilling, healthy and thriving lives. “The Kauswagan project is a concrete example of how public-private partnerships can significantly improve the lives of workingclass citizens. Together, we are making the dream of homeownership a reality for more Filipinos,” Treñas added.
national development,” the NGCP statement read.
As the country’s power transmission service provider, the NGCP is at the forefront of modernizing the Philippine power grid, implementing infrastructure improvements to enhance grid reliability and resilience. The company’s initiatives not only ensure stable power supply but also support the country’s economic growth by attracting investments and fostering more development.
The power transmission operator recently completed several big-ticket projects, including the Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection, the Cebu-NegrosPanay 230kV Backbone, the Mariveles-Hermosa-San Jose 500kV Transmission Line and the CebuBohol Interconnection, fulfilling its commitment to the country.
“[The] NGCP looks forward to continuing its work, in partnership with the government and its stakeholders in the power industry, to build a brighter and more prosperous future for the Philippines,” according to the NGCP, a consortium of three corporations, namely Monte Oro Grid Resources Corp., Calaca High Power Corp. and the State Grid Corporation of China.
Banking&Finance
PH,
US Treasuries team up on climate financing
HE Bureau of the Treasury
T(BTr) has teamed up with the United States Department of the Treasury to collaborate on more debt-for-nature and debt-forclimate arrangements to finance the country’s climate commitments.
In a statement, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said this is part of the efforts of the US Department of the Treasury to strengthen the country’s tax and customs administration system.
The US Department of the Treasury noted that since 2015, it has provided technical assistance to the BTr to help increase the Philippines’ domestic debt market liquidity and resilience.
“This paved the way for an improved primary dealer system, new liability management instruments, and a modern financial market infrastructure for government securities,” the Department of Finance said in a statement.
“Building on this success, both parties are exploring more potential partnerships to improve the country’s fiscal management,” it added.
The Philippines and the US governments have worked on debt-fornature swaps in 2022. This involved two swaps worth $40 million.
“(This allowed) the redirection of Philippine debt payments owed to the US towards forest protection, biodiversity conservation, and cli-
mate action,” DOF said.
This commitment was conveyed by US Treasury senior officials led by Undersecretary Jay C. Shambaugh during a high-level meeting with Recto last week in Washington, D.C.
During the meeting, Recto also highlighted the Philippines’ robust economic outlook and the businessfriendly reforms in place that have made the country more attractive to foreign investors.
He broached key sectors ripe for US investments, particularly defense and security, following the Philippine government’s recent enactment of the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act which aims to boost local defense industries, enhance military modernization efforts, and foster partnerships with allied nations.
Recto also underscored the Philippines’ strategic advantage as the US’ key security partner, citing both nations’ longstanding alliance and the Mutual Defense Treaty.
The Finance Chief also noted that the recent Trilateral Partnership between the US, the Philippines, and Japan strengthens the country’s position as a premier hub for American businesses, particularly in highvalue industries such as semiconductors, renewable energy, power grids, telecommunications, data centers, and cybersecurity. Cai U. Ordinario
Bond trading risks giving false sense of security
ON the surface, the corporate bond market has never looked more stable and liquid. In the US, the market recorded its busiest month ever for trading volume in September.
But history suggests that the ability to trade smoothly is only there until you need it, and the International Monetary Fund warned this week that tight spreads are raising the risk of an abrupt repricing of credit.
Typically, the volume of trades rises when investors crave risk, according to Blair Shwedo, head of fixed income sales and trading at U.S. Bank. Securities that are relatively easy to sell can also help money managers limit losses and return cash to investors redeeming when markets sell off.
“My concern is the kind of self-fulfilling prophecy of everybody thinking liquidity is good and getting better,” said Shwedo in an interview Wednesday.
“Does that lead us to a point where, because everybody’s under the assumption that liquidity is really good, the music stops and we see a drastic deterioration?”
At the moment, credit spreads show bond markets priced for perfection, buoyed by a robust outlook for the US economy and the likelihood of more policy easing from the Federal Reserve. That makes them more vulnerable to swift repricing if volatility spikes—as it could in the aftermath of November’s presidential election.
Shwedo does not see any immediate signs of a deterioration in liquidity, barring an exogenous shock. The rise of etrading, portfolio trades and exchangetraded credit funds gives dealers greater ability to provide pricing than they had in 2020 when the pandemic roiled markets, he said. More non-banks also make markets, with platforms like MarketAxess Holdings Inc. and Tradeweb Markets Inc. becoming popular as credit is increasingly traded electronically. More users enhances liquidity, which further boosts orders.
That helped September become the biggest month ever for US investmentgrade trading, with an average daily volume exceeding $43 billion, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Electronic activity accounted for 50 percent of highgrade bond trading in September, based on Coalition Greenwich data. Portfolio trading, where investors buy or sell a block of bonds in one or two transactions, are now a key driver of the ability to trade smoothly, according to Barclays Plc. It’s boomed in the last few years, rising to 25 percent of dealer-to-client volumes in September from virtually 0 percent in 2018, ana-
SHFC grants 1-mo payment freeze for ‘Kristine’ victims
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE Social Housing Finance Corp. (SHFC) announced it has extended a one-month moratorium on payments for housing amortization for those affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami).
The SHFC is the second Key Shelter Agency (KSA) that has imposed a moratorium on housing amortizations. The first was the National Home Mortgage Finance Corp. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/10/26/dhsud-calls-formoratorium-on-housing-loan-
lysts led by Dominique Toublan wrote in a note last week.
The IMF, however, also warned this week that the rise of nonbank financial institutions means “the availability of market liquidity in times of stress has come into question.”
Investors derive a sense of security from being able to easily and cheaply move bonds, but if vote counts drag on, results are contested or there are fiscal surprises then buyers could struggle to find a bid when global markets gyrate.
“You never know where these elections are going to end up. You never know what kind of volatility they might introduce,” said Jonny Fine, global head of investment grade debt at Goldman Sachs Group, who was speaking of presidential votes in general, not just the US.
Any number of things could cause a liquidity crunch, according to Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Brian Meehan. Macro data could turn, undermining faith in the strong economic growth narrative, Donald Trump could win the election and enact punitive tariffs that accelerate inflation, or more zombie companies could struggle to refinance, he said.
“It just looks like a disaster in the making,” he said in a phone interview Wednesday.
What to watch
ABOUT $20 billion of US high-grade bond sales are expected next week.
In Europe, 64 percent of professionals surveyed expect more than €15 billion ($16 billion) of sales in the coming week.
In the US, Bloomberg Economics expects data due Oct. 30 to show GDP ran at a solid pace of 3.1 percent in 3Q (vs. 3.0 percent prior) amid strong consumer spending (est. 3.2 percent vs. 2.8 percent prior).
US headline and core PCE price indexes likely rose 0.2 percent and 0.3 percent, respectively, in September after a more modest 0.1 percent increase for both in August, Bloomberg Economics estimates. Data due October 31. October’s US payrolls report, out November 1, is expected to show the first negative print since December 2020, according to Bloomberg Economics.
The US ISM Manufacturing PMI, due November 1, likely improved modestly in October after holding steady at 47.2 prior, Bloomberg Economics estimates. Euro-area GDP, out October 30, likely increased by 0.2 percent in 3Q24, according to Bloomberg Economics. Euro-area headline HICP inflation, out Oct. 31, is expected to be unchanged in October relative to September’s 1.7 percent. The core figure may decline to 2.6 percent from 2.7 percent.
amortization-in-kristines-aftermath/).
The state-owned corporation said the move is aimed at providing immediate relief to families who have been severely impacted by the storm’s devastation.
“We are monitoring the situation
closely and are committed to extending the necessary support to help our beneficiaries recover from this calamity,” said SHFC President and CEO Federico A. Laxa. “We are hoping that this deferment of housing payments will alleviate the financial burden on affected communities.”
However, SHFC beneficiaries who still wish to continue paying their monthly amortization can still do so through SHFC’s various online payment channels.
This ensures that those who prefer to maintain their payment schedules have flexible options for meeting their obligations despite the ongoing challenges.
The moratorium is in response to the directive of Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar to provide immediate relief and recovery efforts for affected families, in line with the national government’s disaster response strategy. The SHFC remains committed to improving the lives of its housing beneficiaries. At present, SHFC has a dozen ongoing projects under the “Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino” program (4PH). These include the following: “Crystal Peak Estates” in San Fernando City, Pampanga; “People’s Ville” in Davao City; and, “Valley View Township” in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. These projects form part of the 111 shovel-ready initiatives aimed at providing more than 505,000 units by 2028. By December, SHFC is scheduled to turn over more than 300 units to beneficiaries of Crystal Peak Estates and approximately 400 units to beneficiaries of People’s Ville.
Pagcor relief drive for Kristine-hit areas underway
THE Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) announced its “massive” relief drive for areas affected by Tropical Storm Kristine has begun, sending out an initial 5,000 relief packs last Thursday from a total of 53,000 packs it has prepared.
Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco was quoted in a statement as saying that the relief packs will be dispatched to hard-hit communities in the Bicol Region, Northern Luzon and Calabarzon.
“Since October 24, our volunteer teams have been working tirelessly and preparing thousands of relief goods for distribution to flooded communities,” Tengco said.
“Many of the major roads to these areas were not passable at the height of Kristine’s onslaught so we had to wait a bit for the floods to subside, but were able to ship out the first batch of relief items even while the storm was still lashing out parts of the country,” the chief of the gaming
CREDIT: Ph lIPPInE AmusEmEnT AnD GAmInG CoRP (PAGCoR)
regulator added.
The City of Lipa in Batangas was the first to receive relief aid from the state gaming agency on the night of October 24, as roads there were already passable. The city government received 2,000 food and non-food
packs for distribution to affected locals, according to the Pagcor.
The Pagcor said it also donated last Friday a total of 3,000 relief packs to Angat Buhay Foundation, an organization formed by former Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni”
G. Robredo. The food and non-food items will be distributed in Naga City, which suffered devastating flash floods after the Bicol River overflowed.
“This is just the start of our massive relief drive for Kristine-hit areas,” Tengco said. “Coordination with various local government units and other government agencies like the Office of the Civil Defense is ongoing to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of Pagcor’s aid to displaced communities.”
The Bicol region alone, which suffered the brunt of the recent tropical storm, will receive over 24,000 food and non-food relief packs from Pagcor. The relief goods will be distributed to various local government units in Albay, Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte. Other intended recipients of Pagcor’s relief operation will be the provinces of Apayao, La Union, Quezon, Rizal and Ilocos Sur (Vigan City).
‘Too big to fail’ token faces new threat from US
OF all the legal actions taken against cryptocurrency companies by US regulators and prosecutors over the past year, arguably none threatens to shake up the digital-asset industry as much as a potential crackdown on Tether Holdings Ltd.
Tether is the issuer of a namesake token known as USDT, designed to be a digital substitute for the US dollar, with a market capitalization of about $12O billion. It ranks as the thirdbiggest cryptocurrency by value, and is the most-traded token on a daily basis due to its role as a stand-in for the dollar in markets where traders aren’t able to use traditional currencies for transactions.
“For the crypto industry and crypto writ large, I do think Tether is too big to fail,” Hilary Allen, a law professor at American University who studies digital assets, said in an interview on Thursday, a day before the Wall Street Journal reported on US probes of the token that also raised the possibility of sanctions from the US Treasury. “If Tether were to go to zero tomorrow,” Allen added, ”it would be disastrous for the crypto economy.”
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino immediately went on the defensive following the Journal report, posting on X that “as we told the WSJ, there is no indication that Tether is under investigation. WSJ is regurgitating old news. Full Stop.”
So far, like other times when troubling news about Tether broke, there are no signs of it going to zero. While the token did dip on the report, it went only to as low as about 99.69
cents. Other, more volatile tokens, reacted more strongly to the report, with Bitcoin and Ethereum each falling more than 2 percent.
For years, questions and controversies have swirled around this cryptocurrency dreamed up in part by a former child actor famous for playing a character who’d missed a penalty shot in The Mighty Ducks.
While scrutiny originally was focused on whether the company truly held enough assets to back up the $1 value of its token, federal prosecutors in Washington warned top Tether officials in 2021 that they could be charged for allegedly deceiving banks they used to move cash, Bloomberg previously reported. The probe was later moved to the US Attorney’s Office in Manhattan and two years passed with no indictments or other enforcement actions.
Yet reporting from the Wall Street Journal on Friday says the US hasn’t given up its scrutiny of Tether. Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are investigating whether it has been used to fund illegal activities such as the drug trade, terrorism and hacking, or launder the proceeds of such, according to the Journal. An earlier Bloomberg report, published in March, said the US and UK were reviewing more than $20 billion of transactions made on Moscow-based Garantex, a crypto exchange sanctioned by the US and UK on suspicion of enabling financial crimes and illicit transactions in Russia.
In an emailed statement, a spokesperson for Tether said the company is unaware of any US investigations of the company.
“These stories are based on pure rank speculation despite Tether confirming that it has no knowledge of any such investigations into the company,” a spokesperson said in a statement. The company has a “welldocumented and extensive dealings with law enforcement to crack down on bad actors” who seek to misuse Tether and other tokens, according to the statement.
In addition to the probe by the prosecutor’s office, the Treasury Department has been considering sanctioning Tether because of the token’s widespread use by individuals and groups sanctioned by the U.S., the Journal reported. These include Russian arms dealers and Hamas, which the US has designated a terrorist group.
Should the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control add Tether to its list of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons, it “would be devastating,” John Paul Koning, author of the Moneyness blog, wrote on X. And the ramifications would extend beyond the digital-assets market to one of the best-known firms on Wall Street: Cantor Fitzgerald LP, which took on Tether as a client last year to handle the almost $100 billion of Treasury securities that that the company says it owns to back up the value of its stablecoin.
“Given that Cantor Fitzgerald would have to block Tether’s billions in T-bills, it’s hard to imagine how the redemption mechanism would continue to function and the peg hold,” Koning wrote, referencing the $1 value of USDT. Cantor Fitzgerald
did not immediately return a request for comment on the Journal’s report. In recent months, Cantor’s chief executive, Howard Lutnick, has defended the company when it comes to lingering questions about whether Tether truly has enough reserves to back up the $1 peg should a loss of investor confidence lead to a crush of redemptions.
In a speech at the Bitcoin 2024 conference in July, Lutnick said that after several years of due diligence he determined that Tether “had every penny, but they had it in what I would call pretty god-forsaken places,” including Chinese commercial paper. Cantor Fitzgerald agreed to onboard Tether, he added, on the condition that when that commercial paper and other investments matured, Tether would send the money to the firm to buy T-bills. The relationship with Cantor has turned Tether into, if not quite a whale, still a noticeable player in the market for US debt. Tether also has been working to expand its influence beyond the crypto markets in other ways as well. The stablecoin issuer is exploring lending some of its billions in profits to commodities trading companies, Bloomberg reported in October, a move with the potential to shake up an industry typically reliant on traditional banks for credit. In another push into commodities markets, Tether has also been pitching government officials in Turkey to use blockchain technology to create digital tokens that represent borate minerals, which are mostly used in the production of ceramics, detergents, fertilizers and glass. Bloomberg News
This October 24, 2024, photo shows volunteers unloading relief packs from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) for distribution to affected communities in Lipa City, Batangas.
From newsrooms to podcasts: How Harris and Trump are choosing new media to reach voters
By David Bauder AP Media Writer
Among the legacy news outlets that have come up empty in their efforts to interview Kamala Harris and Donald Trump during the general election campaign: nPR, The new York Times, PBS and The Washington Post.
Yet Harris chose to meet with Alex Cooper for her “Call Her Daddy” podcast and talk a little Bay Area basketball with the fellows on “All the Smoke.” Trump rejected “60 Minutes,” but has hung out with the bros on the “Bussin’ With the Boys” and “Flagrant.” Harris sat Thursday for an interview in Georgia with former NFL player
Shannon Sharpe for his podcast “Club Shay Shay.”
During this truncated campaign, some of the traditional giants of journalism are being pushed aside. The growing popularity of podcasts and their ability to help candidates in a tight race target a specific sliver of the electorate is a big reason why.
There are certainly exceptions. Harris spoke to NBC News’ Hallie Jackson on Tuesday and held a CNN town hall on Wednesday. But political columnist John Heilemann of Puck noticed what he called “an ancient, dying beast railing against the diminishment of its status and stature in the new world.”
“The campaigns have their structures and their media plans are very carefully thought through, even if we don’t agree with them,” said Sara Just, senior executive producer of the PBS “NewsHour.” “Obviously, we hope they will do long, probing interviews with PBS.”
Journalists consider that an important service. Said Eric Marrapodi, vice president for news programming at NPR: “I think Americans deserve to hear the candidates have their ideas challenged.”
Big-media interviews used to be a staple for candidates
T H AT sounds like a campaign staff’s worst nightmare, infinite opportunities for their candidates to trip up and have an unplanned story dominate the news cycle. And to what end? Most legacy news organizations don’t have the reach they used to, and their audience skews old.
For half a century, a “60 Minutes” interview near the election was considered a key stop for presidential candidates. But Trump shunned broadcast television’s most influential news show this year, and has criticized the way its interview with Harris was edited.
The former president has stuck largely to what he perceives as friendly venues with direct access to his base audience, and continually feeds interviews to Fox News Channel despite grumbling he doesn’t find the network loyal enough. Indeed, Fox has also proven important to the Democratic ticket, which believes that appearing on its shows demonstrates willingness to deal with a hostile environment.
Harris’ interview with Bret Baier was so contentious that it be -
came fodder for a “Saturday Night Live” parody. After her running mate, Tim Walz, was interviewed by Shannon Bream on “Fox News Sunday” earlier this month, the campaign sought and received a return engagement the next week. “I was a little surprised,” Bream admitted to Walz. “What’s that about?”
Many news outlets don’t reach as many people as they used to I N g eneral, television networks don’t have the audience they once did. CNN, for example, reached 1.24 million viewers per evening during the third quarter of 2016, when Trump first ran, and 924,000 this year, according to the Nielsen company. Broadcast networks are so named for their ability to reach a broad audience; sometimes candidates need that, often they don’t.
The picture is more dire at newspapers, which collectively boasted 37.8 million in Sunday circulation in 2016 and dropped to 20.9 million by 2022, the Pew Research Center said. Candidates once submitted to tough interviews with newspaper editorial boards in the hope of winning an endorsement; now many newspapers don’t even bother making that choice.
For years, candidates have been able to target advertising messages with great specificity—a swing state, even competitive cities, for example. The media now offers more opportunities to micromessage in the same way. Eager to shore up support among Black men, Harris appeared on Charlamagne Tha God’s influential radio program—CNN and MSNBC even simulcast it—and was interviewed by MSNBC’s Al Sharpton.
“The View” and Stephen Colbert’s “Late Show,” where Harris has appeared, enabled her to talk to people less inclined to follow the news.
Podcasts allow for more precise audience targeting F EW outlets offer the opportunity to zero in on an audience better than podcasts, which have essentially doubled in listenership since 2016.
The format is narrowcasting at its finest, said Andy Bowers, cofounder of the on-demand audio company Spooler Media. People who listen to podcasts often feel an intense loyalty to their favorites, almost like they’re part of a club of people with similar traits and interests—and a candidate has been invited into that club for a day.
“You’re talking to a specific audience with a specific bent and frame of mind,” said Tom Bettag, a University of Maryland journalism professor. “That’s very helpful to somebody who is trying to avoid saying the wrong thing at the wrong time.”
For her interview with Alex
Cooper on “Call Her Daddy,” Harris appeared on the most popular podcast for women. They discussed abortion, and one of Cooper’s questions sounded like a grooved pitch: “What do you think of Trump saying he will be a protector of women?”
On the “Flagrant” podcast, hosts asked questions about Trump’s children and how he felt during his assassination attempt.
Host Akaash Singh interrupted Trump at one point to compliment him on how he raised his children.
“I think I like this interview,” Trump said. His appearance on the podcast, one of several efforts he has made to reach young men, has been seen by nearly 5.5 million
people on YouTube alone. Issues come up during these discussions, often mixed with the personal. On “All the Smoke,” the hosts began by asking Harris about the blind date where she met her husband.
Don’t write off legacy outlets yet C ER TAINLY not everyone is writing an obituary for traditional journalists and their coverage of campaigns. “I don’t view it as a big break that takes away from legacy media,” said Rick Klein, ABC’s Washington bureau chief. ABC’s opportunity to question the candidates came in the most public of forums, when the network hosted the only debate between Harris
and Trump.
Of the 10 sources of campaign news with the most views on TikTok over the past 60 days, six were legacy news outlets, according to Zelf, a social video analytics company. They were ABC News, CNN, NBC News, MSNBC, Univision and the Daily Mail.
For a strong news organization, there’s also a lot more that goes into covering a presidential campaign than sit-down interviews with candidates.
“I don’t think journalists should worry too much about access journalism,” said Mark Lukasiewicz, dean of the Hofstra University School of Communication and a former NBC News producer. “We should do journalism.” David Halbfinger, political editor of The New York Times, cautioned against drawing too many conclusions based on a campaign that was unusually short due to Harris’ late entrance into the race. The Times has followed the campaign aggressively with trend stories, investigations and spot news coverage. “It’s hard to know what the lessons will be,” Halbfinger said. “For a long time, candidates have tried to go around the news media. One way or another, the mainstream media does its job so I don’t know how effective that strategy is. But it will be an interesting
to see.”
De M ocratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris speaks with members of the press on
in Philadelphia, before departing to Michigan. AP/J
Weddings at the Waterfront 2024
‘Panaad’: A promise fulfilled
CEBU CITY—In terms of being the center of boundless creativity and glamorous activity, the Queen City of the South continues to reign supreme. This, thanks in large part to the genius of couturier Cary Santiago, the generosity of Diagold Jewelry and the unrelenting support of the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
On October 19, the hotel’s massive Pacific Grand Ballroom was the venue for Panaad: The Vow bridal show, which is part of the Cebu Wedding Expo 2024. Billed as the biggest fashion event in Cebu to date, the featured designers were Albert Andrada, Axel Que, Ehrran Montoya, Jo Rubio, Leo Almodal, Mike Yapching, Rian Fernandez, and Val Taguba.
It is a tradition of the Waterfront Hotel to celebrate weddings but this used to be held in June. Lately, though, we changed the month because there’s no such thing as a June bride anymore. In fact, to a lot of us designers realized that the brides want their weddings to be in the last quarter of the year when it’s cooler and when most of their families are around,” Cary said.
“The design community in Cebu is small. We don’t want the lineup of designers to be the same every year. So that’s why we invite designers from Manila. Most of the time with the madams here, they’re eager to attend when they know the designer,” added the incomparable Cary. “That’s why every year I make sure that I invite designers that are either seasoned or kind of upcoming whose works have become familiar to the fashionistas of Cebu.”
Albert and Val have been good friends with Santiago during their glory days in the Middle East, and are natural choices to be in the show. Rian Fernandez, a toast of the international pageant circuit who has embraced high fashion, expressed the gratitude younger designers have for Santiago’s support:
“[It] was a celebration of artistry and I would just like to thank the people behind the success of Panaad. To Mommy Cary Santiago, I am truly honored and deeply touched to have received an invitation to be part of this monumental event. Being chosen to share this space with you and other talented individuals is a privilege I never anticipated.”
Val as the vanguard of style once again showed the upstarts how sensational creations are crafted. Always dramatic, sometimes outlandish, never bland, his strength lies in empowering the wearer of his dresses while still exuding sophistication.
Rian calls his collection The Winds of Time, which he deems a “breathtaking exploration of bravery and elegance, merging fearless cuts with timeless silhouettes. The showstopping cage dresses come alive with intricate layering and innovative designs, embodying both strength and grace. This collection captures the essence of movement through time, inviting to embrace boldness while celebrating classic beauty in every meticulously purely handcrafted piece.” Mike, who is emerging as one of Cebu’s burgeoning talents, showcased his innovative streak, eye for detail and impressive skills. Shape of Water is the name of his collection: “It is my love letter to the wonderful beaches of Cebu, and my
longing to once again bask in the sun on one of its shores.” Leo’s creations are unmistakably opulent. There’s glitter, shimmer and sparkle in every stitch of fabric in his voluminous and vibrant creations. Each dress is meant to dazzle, each piece meant to enthrall.
Jo’s restraint was a palate cleanser, his gorgeous gowns a welcome respite from all the unbearable brightness of beading on the runway. The bright star from Bulacan shared: “When Cary Santiago gave me a personal call, I was ecstatic. He personally invited me to do a bridal show among the esteemed list of designers in Manila and Cebu. At the back of my head, I wanted to decline. I’m always shy, and I rarely do
showcase his bridal fashion pieces alongside the best Filipino fashion designers: “It’s an honor to share the same stage with my fashion heroes and friends. Reflecting on my journey, I remember peeking through the curtains as Francis Libiran’s associate designer back here at the Waterfront in 2018. Now, I am standing on this same stage thanks to Mama Cary Santiago.” Axel is celebrated for his fantastic national costumes for our pageant flag-bearers, and his avant-garde leanings will find favor in the rebellious bride. His bold, mind-boggling but never boring artistic explorations are perfect for fashion editorials.
harmony between tradition and contemporary fashion. The collection features gowns with structured bodices crafted from smooth taffeta, paired with flowing tulle skirts that lend an air of grace and lightness.
“Denim is used unexpectedly, adding a bold, modern twist to corsets, tailored jackets, or accents like belts and trim, while still maintaining a sense of refinement. Shades of blue range from deep, classical navy to soft sky blue, combined with pristine whites, reminiscent of ancient Greco-Roman frescoes. This collection offers a bold reimagining of bridal fashion, where history meets innovation, and romance blends with contemporary edge.” n
IN 1991, NUXE founder Aliza Jabès made a significant mark in the beauty world with the launch of Huile Prodigieuse, a multipurpose dry oil that quickly became iconic. By 1998, the brand introduced Huile Prodigieuse Or, the pioneer of shimmery oils in pharmacies, setting a new trend for achieving a shimmery glow. Fast-forward to 2019, and the Huile Prodigieuse collection expanded once more, this time with a floral version. The same iconic dry oil, now infused with a floral scent, became an instant hit, captivating NUXE fans with its new fragrance version. This has naturally led to the creation of the perfect hybrid of these two beloved products: NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Or Florale, combining the signature shimmery finish with a floral scent. When the irresistible iridescent finish of Huile Prodigieuse Or meets the uplifting floral notes of Huile Prodigieuse Florale, the result is the new gem of French pharmacy: NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Or Florale. This dry oil combines floral notes with an ultra-trendy rose gold finish, offering a shimmering glow that beautifies all skin types. As an alternative to the solar and sensual notes of Huile Prodigieuse Or, this version reveals the uplifting notes of zesty Grapefruit, a luminous floral blend of Orange Blossom and Magnolia, and a velvety base of white Musk to create an irresistibly fragrant trail. Like its predecessors, it features the same clean, vegan formula made with natural-origin pearly particles and a precious blend of seven 100 percent botanical oils: Tsubaki, Macadamia, Argan, Borage, Camellia, Hazelnut and Sweet Almond.
Choose your desired shimmery glow with the NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Or, golden pearly particles with warmer tones that create an iridescent golden glow that beautifies all skin types and enhances a tan; or the new NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Or Florale with cooler rose gold highlights that subtly lift the skin and freshen the complexion.
Use these oils as part of your makeup routine for an instant illuminating boost. Gently dab a few drops of oil onto your face using your fingertips or a flat brush, focusing on areas that capture the light such as the tops of your cheekbones, nose, and forehead. For the body, apply a few drops into your palms or onto a kabuki brush, sweeping it over your legs or highlighting key areas such as your shoulders and décolleté. Finish by scrunching a few drops into the lengths of your hair and sprinkling over the ends for subtle luminous highlights.
The new NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Or can be found in select Rustan’s, Beauty Bar, LOOK, and Mitsukoshi Beauty; and online on Rustans.com,
“Healthy is the
because to be at the
that takes a lot of dedication, learning,
though your
is tired but you are
you envision yourself to
of
committed to
You have to
for your
because you are the
that understands what your dream is,” said Calawod. I love how she talked about competitive sport and training with barely any pronouns because it conveyed the message that if a man could win Olympic medals, anyone could too. The panel of guests at Watsons Move with PowHER conversations about women’s
we were socialized to believe but we have to unlearn that,” she said. Also present at the forum was Nicole de la Cruz, CEO of Women’s Run PH and an advocate for women in sports. She talked about the significance of representation. “For running, empowerment is very important because you get
number of women’s participation but to be able to create a platform wherein women can get to share each other’s problems, a community wherein we get to talk about these things, we get to uplift each other, share advice, and empower others,” said de la Cruz. Sharon Decapia, SAVP of Watsons’ marketing, PR and sustainability, talked about how she balances her roles as a corporate executive and mother. “It can actually be overwhelming. But I think when you commit to it, when you set your goal not just at work but also at home, you are able to prioritize. I always make sure that whatever I do, I am 100 percent good,” said Decapia. The discussion was actually
very open. There were no issues to be discussed. It was simply a gathering of women with a number of personalities onstage who shared their thoughts and advocacies. Watsons inspires women through initiatives such as scholarship programs, employee volunteerism, and sustainability efforts. The forum also provided a vibrant atmosphere with interactive activities. Guests participated in a floral workshop where they created their own arrangements. Brand segments featured PH Care, Gynepro,
Jollibee supports National Academy of Sports in honor of PHL Olympians
WITH the goal to help build the next generation of world-class Pinoys and bring more joy to the global stage, Jollibee has pledged to donate P5 million worth of sports equipment to the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac.
The donation was made official during a Memorandum of Agreement signing event last September 18, 2024 at the Department of Education Complex in Pasig City. To celebrate the partnership, a ceremonial turnover event was held on October 7, 2024 at the NAS Tarlac campus, which was attended by executives from the Department of Education led by Secretary Sonny Angara, National Academy of Sports, Jollibee, local government officials, as well as Olympic double gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
“In honor of the historic feat of Team Philippines during the Paris Olympics, we are focusing our efforts in helping build the next generation of world-class Pinoys. This is why we are supporting institutions like NAS, whose aim is to develop homegrown Filipino sports talents. We’re proud and honored to partner with them in elevating Philippine sports and providing the needed training and resources to our young athletes who dream of making it big. As a world-class Filipino brand, Jollibee is committed to championing Pinoy pride and joy, whether it be in sports or in other fields,” said Ferns Yu, Jr., Jollibee Philippines President.
The ceremonial turnover kicked off with a performance from student-athletes of NAS that highlighted the different sports programs the academy offers. Carlos Yulo shared an inspirational speech addressed to aspiring national athletes, highlighting the importance of perseverance, heart, and a strong support system like NAS in helping
JOLLIBEE’S donation of P5 million worth of sports equipment to the National Academy of Sports (NAS) was celebrated in a ceremonial turnover with, from left, Olympic Double Gold Medalist Carlos Yulo,
them grow into champions that bear the Philippine flag with joy and pride.
“The journey may be difficult, but with hard work and the right support, there is nothing that can stop you from achieving your dreams and showing the world na kayang-kaya rin ng Pinoy,” said Yulo. “I’m thankful for institutions like NAS that give access to better training and facilities that build them up for success, and to Jollibee for championing Pinoy pride and for supporting the student-athletes. Sa susunod na mga taon, sigurado akong dadami pa ang mga Pilipinong atleta na magdadala ng karangalan sa bayan at makikilala sa buong mundo. [In the next few years, I am certain that there will be more Filipino athletes who will bring glory to the country so that we will be known worldwide.]”
Created by virtue of Republic Act 11470, the National Academy of Sports is an institution under the Department of Education that aims “to be at the forefront of global sports development and education, producing well-rounded student-athletes equipped with the ability and passion to become a source of national pride.”
To ensure holistic development for the students, the school implements an enhanced secondary education program integrated with a special curriculum on eight different sports, namely, aquatics, athletics, badminton, gymnastics, judo, table tennis, taekwondo, and weightlifting. With world-class facilities at par with
international standards, highly qualified coaches, plus opportunities to compete internationally, student-athletes of NAS are provided with the tools they need to hone their craft and succeed.
“When we enter into new partnerships, we write better futures for our learners. This is only a small event but let us remember that this impacts generations of our learners. My wish is for our young athletes-the future Caloys, EJs, and Hidilyns--to succeed in their sports and to grace the podium with their heads held high for the country,” said DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara.
In her speech during the MOA signing last month, National Academy of Sports Executive Director Josephine Joy Reyes expressed her gratitude for the partnership.
“The remarkable achievements of Filipino athletes like Carlos Yulo serve as shining examples of what we can accomplish with hard work and perseverance. Your support fuels that dream for many of our student-athletes. Jollibee indeed is not just a leading brand, but a true champion of the Filipino spirit. By investing in our school’s sports programs, you’re investing in the future Olympians, national champions, and leaders of tomorrow,” she said.
As a brand that has always advocated for Pinoy pride and excellence, Jollibee aims to continuously champion world-class Filipino talent, helping them excel in local and international stages and bring more joy to the country.
HOP INN Targets 2030 IPO Spin-off, Expansion to 3 New Countries
HOP INN, the leading budget hotel chain operating in Thailand, Philippines, and Japan, with over 70 branches and more than 7,000 rooms, has set out a new strategy to penetrate new markets in at least three new countries and expand as a regional brand.
Embarking on a high pace expansion plan in Thailand, Philippines, and Japan with the goal of growing and maintaining loyal customer base, HOP INN is targeting an average annual revenue growth rate (CAGR) of over 15 percent, aiming to become the number one budget hotel network in Asia-Pacific by 2030.
HOP INN reinforces the same standards everywhere, in every country, with the message “Consistency is Yours,” targeting travelers seeking value and comfort throughout the region.
Pichanun Boonpromgul, President, Hotel Investment said, “This year marks the 10th anniversary of HOP INN. Over the past decade, we have successfully followed our plans for expansion and maintained service quality. This year, HOP INN Japan opened four locations in Tokyo and Kyoto, while HOP INN Philippines now operates 10 branches across three major islands. We have received positive feedback and expanded our customer base from various countries across different continents. This gives us confidence to achieve our expansion plan.”
“To enhance HOP INN’s capabilities and readiness in line with the long-term
investment plan, the IPO spin-off plan has been approved by the Board of Directors of The Erawan Group Public Company Limited. We established a set of key milestones to achieve by 2030. We anticipate filing the company for listing on Thai stock exchange in 2027, aiming for an initial public offering (IPO) to support our
PHL’s A Force Ventures Inc., South Korea’s Magnatech sign MOA for battery manufacturing
Along-term expansion plan,” she added.
Nalinee Krisadavivat, President, Hotel Operation said, “HOP INN aims to make every journey easier for everyone. We strive to provide our guests with convenience throughout the customer journey - convenient location, easy to book, comfortable stay, and affordable. We place the highest priority on consistency in all aspects, delivering a great experience both before and after their stays. We own and manage all our hotels to ensure same quality across the entire network. Additionally, 95 percent of our hotels are newly built, ensuring uniformity in design and service standards. No matter which country or branch you stay in, whether it’s newly opened or one that has been operating for 10 years, you will have the same experience.”
“‘Consistency is Yours’ - this commitment comes from the dedication of our entire team in the past 10 years and will become our promise to our customers from now on. Every year, more than 2.5 million customers stay with HOP INN. We sincerely thank you for your support. HOP INN is ready to deliver quality service everywhere you go,” she added.
To celebrate its 10th hotel milestone, HOP INN Philippines launched its “Hop Inn 10 Hotels: Stay and Fly Promo” to reward its loyal customers with a chance to fly for free to Japan and their dream destinations in the Philippines via AirAsia until January 31, 2025. For details, visit www.hopinnhotel.com.
Fuji-Haya Electric Corp., LS Electric Korea power up 49th IIEE Annual National Convention
ON its 45th Year, Fuji-Haya Electric Corporation, the Philippines’ longest pioneering manufacturer of power distribution equipment with its strategic partner, LS Electric of Korea, is set to join the 49th IIEE Annual National Convention hosted by the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, from November 27 to December 1, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.
This convention is the biggest, most awaited gathering of power equipment manufacturers and design consultants in the electrical engineering field, showcasing the latest advancements not only in the power industry, but sustainable and renewable energy solutions as well.
Banking on both Japanese and Korean
THE International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, in partnership with Deloitte and the Makati Business Club, had set the stage for the Triple P Awards. As the first awards program to recognize companies for their progress in ESG, it highlights their sustainability efforts and strengthens their reputation for building a more sustainable future.
technologies, Fuji-Haya Electric has been serving the country’s power protection needs since 1979, catering to mixed use commercial and residential developments, mining and utility companies, ensuring safe and continuous supply of electricity from utility companies. Fuji Haya Electric boasts of the only Type Tested Medium and Low Voltage Switchgear designs in the country. These locally designed switchgears were fully type tested abroad in internationally recognized third party laboratories, successfully hurdling the harshest conditions demanded by various IEC standards and in strict compliance with the Philippine Electrical Code. This year, their exhibit will feature their type tested switchgear fitted with their patented arc relief device together with other superior products such as super Capacitors with Self-Healing (SH) Metalized Electrodes that enable spontaneous internal isolation of faulty segments, making them safe, highly reliable and longer lasting.
Fuji Haya Electric – always on, always safe.To see more of Fujihaya Electric Corporations’s industry innovations, visit Booths 71 to 76 at the 49th IIEE Annual National Convention (ANC)
To explore Fuji-Haya’s products and facilities, please visit their online platforms: Website https://fujihayaelectric.com/; Facebookfujihayaelectriccorp
Distinguished Panel Ushers in the First Triple P Awards Winners throughout the evaluation process.
A distinguished panel of evaluators were tapped for the selection of this year’s winners. The esteemed panel comprises leaders in sustainability and corporate communications representing some of the most respected organizations. Their insights ensured that the awards spotlight the most transformative initiatives in environmental stewardship, governance, and strategic communication.
The evaluation process focused on long-term impact, using metrics tailored to the unique challenges of each sector, ultimately ensuring fair and meaningful recognition. The awards night was set for October 25, 2024, at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay, promises to be a celebration of achievements across the pillars of Planet, People, and Progress.
Leading the evaluation of sustainability initiatives are experts in environmental governance and climate advocacy. Floradema Eleazar, currently the Outcome Lead of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Climate Action Team, brings over 30 years of experience in environmental planning, policy research, and climate change mitigation. Having held key leadership roles with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and managed high-impact projects for global organizations such as the World Bank and UNDP, Eleazar has ensured that companies are evaluated for both environmental impact and long-term resilience.
Joining her is Ludwig Federigan, a prominent figure in climate education and sustainability advocacy. With advanced training from Yale and Oxford, Federigan has mentored global changemakers and held key roles in the Climate Change Commission. His expertise bridges science communication and environmental policy, ensuring that sustainability efforts are assessed with precision and insight.
Completing the panel is Aljo Quintans, an SDG Specialist with the UNDP, who brings a wealth of experience in sustainable development and public policy. As a former operations head at the Department of Social Welfare and Development and a Chevening scholar, Quintans has applied his 15 years of experience in development planning, poverty reduction, and sustainable financing
The Corporate
IN the photo are, from left, Pichanun Boonpromgul, Erawan Hop Inn Co. Ltd., President, Hotel Investment; and Nalinee Krisadavivat, Erawan Hop Inn Co. Ltd., President, Hotel Operation.
Collective action for mental health
MUCH has been said and written about mental health. It is emerging as a silent epidemic with irreversible repercussions greatly impacting most especially our youth. A deeper look into the problem will show that one cause of this is a failure in communication, something that we in the PR community should be concerned about.
An article in a local publication recently cited estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO) that one in eight individuals is living with a mental health condition.
In the Philippines, while we have started recognizing the urgency of addressing mental health issues with the passing of the Mental Health Law in 2018, there is a need to sustain more open discussions to de-stigmatize mental health issues.
Cases of mental health are on the rise with much of it still undetected, unreported, or underreported. It is indeed timely that there is a designated World Mental Health Day serving as a reminder that mental health is as significant as physical health; and that there is a need to integrate it into the health system to be able to maintain strong and resilient families, communities, schools, and even workplaces.
Urgency in numbers
De PR e ss IOn an d anxiety are among the leading mental health illnesses among adolescents, and suicide is among the leading causes of death in people aged 15 to 19 years old, according to the World Health Organization.
The Department of e ducation (Depe d ) for s Y 2 021-2022 said it has recorded 404 student suicides and over 2,100 suicide attempts in schools.
The 2021 Young Adult Fertility and s e xuality st udy by the University of the Philippines Population Institute found that 62 percent of Filipino youth who thought about suicide did not reach out for help, and only 2 percent of those who attempted suicide sought professional support. s o me of the reasons identified for the rising mental health concerns among students in -
Phili
demands of the times. This belief
inspired the relaunch of Philippine Fashion Week, which is setting its sights toward greater influence on a global scale. The week is reintroducing itself with an all-new identity, a powerful vision and purpose, and an ambitious strategic business direction. This ambitious move arose from the culture established by its founders, Joey and Audie Espino, who introduced the brand to the Philippines in 1997. With a firm belief that reinventing the runway will sustain the “culture of fashion,” Philippine Fashion Week’s
clude challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, poverty, bullying, internet addiction, family, academic concerns, lack of mental health literacy, and the lack of interventions and available resources. But more important, family-related causes are now recognized as having the greatest impact on the mental state of the young population.
It doesn’t help that we have a limited support system in the country at this time when it comes to mental health. We only have 5,085 registered guidance counselors, 2,417 registered psychologists, and 651 registered psychiatrists. Unfortunately, in the Philippine public school system, there is only one guidance counselor serving 25,000 students.
Hence, there is urgency for collective action, not just from the public sector but also from private organizations to work together to address mental health issues that will enable a robust and integrated communitybased system—one that recognizes the need to support mental health problems and offer more comprehensive options for addressing them that include sociocultural, geographic, and even faith-based considerations.
Working together for a common cause
C O MMU n IC ATIOn i s part of the collective action in addressing mental health. Recognition of the problem with open discussions could encourage more people to open up and seek help. Families having more time to engage with one another, to literally having time to play, eat— and talk—together, could make a huge difference in developing a strong and resilient child that can express his or her feelings well. A school with a system for observing and detecting behavioral changes or patterns could trigger a more deliberate understanding of school performances of certain students. A workplace with an institutionalized program that recognizes the mental health needs of employees could foster a more dynamic and healthier work environment. Communication channels such
new management, Amorada, headed by its Chief Vision Officer, Nikky Nicandro III, will carry this legacy, evolving from just staging annual fashion events into a platform with omnichannel assets to become the launchpad of brands, businesses and collaborators—whether they’re looking to amp up their style, refresh their image and position, or seeking creative and meaningful collaborations.
As Philippine Fashion Week embraces the broader stage of style as a launchpad for what’s fresh in seven territories where exquisite style is most
as media with a steady stream of conversations that offer timely and wholesome discussions of relatable issues on mental health should be sustained to shape a society that is more open and understanding of people who need help, and less harsh in judgment and expectations.
Recently, I organized a media briefing for one of the programs of Unilab Foundation, Heads Up PH, a mental health and wellbeing program aimed at supporting Filipino youth. Heads Up PH aims to create a nurturing environment where students can receive the help that they need and to enable teachers and other school stakeholders to recognize signs of mental health challenges among students.
Heads Up PH was launched during the pandemic and the recent media briefing was intended to increase awareness and to open more discussions about the details of the program.
In collaboration with partners such as the Department of e ducation, the Department of Health, the Commission on Higher e ducation (CH e D), s c hools Division Offices and
intrinsic—fashion, Dining, Beverages (Wine and spirits), Home, Travel, Arts and entertainment, and Wellness—the runway opens up to vast opportunities for creative and meaningful collaborations in a constant rhythm of reinventing the runway to showcase the best that both parties will offer.
Suddenly, the runway is as wide as your imagination. More deserving talents from the Philippines and beyond, or vice-versa, will “walk the runway” in a world where collaboration is the new superpower. With the stewardship of Philippine Fashion Week and
local government units, and mental health professionals and organizations, Heads Up PH developed a comprehensive and evidence-based tool kit to tackling mental health issues in schools across the country.
The toolkit aims to help fill the gaps on the issue of scarcity of mental health professionals in the country, the limitations on service delivery, increased reliance on remote support, and disruptions in the continuation of mental health services.
The discussion that ensued during the briefing raised questions, followed by talks on the depth of mental health issues in our society as well as their possible causes. It openly mentioned underlying causes that, in some cases, are often deliberately ignored or downplayed. Clearly, communication plays a vital role in tackling pressing issues and in identifying possible interventions that promote collective action. The more that we discuss, the topics become broader and people are encouraged to be more participative and open, even with their personal experiences—a step toward normaliz -
an alliance of style industries, the Philippines is ready.
Considered the longest-running fashion event in the country and one of the biggest fashion weeks in the region, Philippine Fashion Week has consistently celebrated the country’s trailblazing creatives, who have enabled it to sustain its vibrant fashion culture.
For all that the Philippine Fashion Week has achieved over three decades, it will continue to live up to its pioneering reputation as it invites global collaborations with other fashion weeks worldwide, various industries
ing and accepting the discussion about mental health. By working together with partners from public and private sector, and by facilitating proper mindset when it comes to understanding and accepting mental health, we are hoping that we will have a stronger and bigger “community of responders” not just for the youth but for our entire population, all for the benefit of a healthier country.
PR Matters is a roundtable column by members of the local chapter of the United Kingdom-based International Public Relations Association (IPRA), the world’s premiere association for senior communications professionals around the world. Claire de Leon-Papa is the Head of External Affairs and Social Partnerships of Unilab, Inc. She is a member of IPRA-Philippines Chapter and the International Public Relations Association.
PR Matters is devoting a special column each month to answer our readers’ questions about public relations. Please send your questions or comments to askipraphil@ gmail.com.
and companies, and designers ready for global destination. In 2025, watch out for all the exciting programs in the pipeline for Philippine Fashion Week here and abroad.
As Philippine Fashion Week gears up for a new image and purpose, the success of its launch would not have been possible without the support of official partners: Ayala Foundation, Ayala Museum, Dr Wine, Bar Flora, Citadelle by HighProof, ARC by Full Circle Craft Distillers, WineDrop, Ticketbooth, MOD, Maniego’s Plate, and Sicklab Studios.
Sports BusinessMirror
B8 Monday, octoBer 28, 2024
mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
Editor: Jun Lomibao
Cyberbullies in Paris ceremonies charged
PARIS—Seven people have been charged in connection with cyberbullying targeting
Thomas Jolly, the artistic mastermind behind the Paris Olympics’ opening and closing ceremonies, French authorities announced Friday.
T he online attacks erupted after Jolly’s acclaimed but controversial opening July spectacle on the Seine—a queer-inclusive, highenergy fusion of tradition and modernity that, for some, was too bold to ignore.
T he abuse quickly escalated, laced with homophobic and antisemitic slurs, and reportedly aimed to silence the artistic intent behind the show.
Jolly responded by filing a formal complaint with the Paris prosecutor’s office on July 31, prompting an investigation that led to the “first wave” of arrests, with more expected as the probe unfolds.
The seven people charged, ranging in age from 22 to 79, face counts of death threats, aggravated insults, and cyberbullying—serious allegations carrying the weight of potential prison time and heavy fines.
Jolly, a theatrical maverick known for blending bold cultural themes with LGBTQ+ celebration, had intended his production that lit up the City of Light as a vibrant, inclusive portrayal of French diversity.
Jolly’s star-studded opening ceremony, featuring queer community luminaries like Celine Dion and Lady Gaga. However, drag performers, high-energy runway walks, and—in particular—a scene some interpreted as the “Last Supper” drew ire from farright politicians and religious figures across the world.
Hungary’s ambassador to the Vatican, Eduard Habsburg, denounced the scene as disrespectful, noting wryly that “decapitating Habsburgs
and ridiculizing central Christian events are really the FIRST two things that spring to mind when you think of #OlympicGames.”
US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump went even further, calling the scene “a disgrace.”
Though Jolly clarified afterward that any resemblance to the “Last Supper” was unintentional, the backlash continued to ripple, drawing both criticism and support for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ elements.
Amid the uproar, Jolly told French lawmakers last month that there was a distinction between constructive criticism and the discriminatory attacks he received.
Critique, that’s my life…but when it involves discrimination, it becomes criminal,” he said.
Stressing that the show’s intent was neither offensive nor religious, he defended
his vision, expressing disbelief that anyone could interpret his work as disrespectful.
“I didn’t set out to mock any religion,” he emphasized, reflecting that he incorporated references to Notre Dame cathedral as a homage to France’s cultural heritage, not as a religious statement.
Support for Jolly has come from within the artistic community, including fellow performers who were also subjected to online abuse.
Barbara Butch, an LGBTQ+ advocate and DJ, and Drag Race France host Nicky Doll, who both performed in the Olympic ceremony, were among those harassed. Although only Jolly was named in the prosecutor’s official statement, the wave of hostility extended to others involved in the
Paloma, expressed pride in the event’s bold message of inclusion and called it “a really important moment for the French people and the representation of France around the world.”
Drag Race France winner Le Filip echoed this sentiment, describing the ceremony as a “crowning moment” for the LGBTQ+ community and a “postcard for France” that showcased a modern, inclusive nation. He also expressed shock at the backlash against Jolly’s event.
The prosecutor’s office Friday emphasized the seriousness of the charges and arrests, noting that the case reflects a troubling pattern of cyberbullying and hate speech directed at prominent figures.
I t said the suspects sought to “intimidate and silence expressions of inclusivity” and diversity in a highly public and symbolic
PHL hoping to participate in all 50 sports in 2025 SEA Games
HILIPPINE Olympic Committee
P(POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino is confident Filipino athletes have enough window to prepare for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games that Thailand is hosting late next year.
“There’s enough time and there are more than enough opportunities,” said Tolentino on Sunday from Bangkok where he attended the SEAG Council Federation meeting that set the official dates, sports and events for the 33rd edition of the biennial regional games.
Tolentino said the opening ceremony will be on December 9 and the closing ceremony will be on December 20 for the games Thailand is hosting in capital Bangkok, Chonburi and Songkhla.
A total of 581 events are programmed for 50 sports and three demonstration sports including tug of war and ultimate (freesbee).
The Philippines was overall champion when it hosted the games in 2005 and 2019 but finished fourth and fifth respectively in the last two editions in Vietnam (2022) and
Cambodia 2023).
Coming off our Olympic success in Paris and with the growing enthusiasm of our national sports association to make their marks in the SEA Games, our national federations and athletes have enough time to prepare and contend in Thailand,” Tolentino said. He also said that the goal is to participate in as many sports as possible in Thailand.
“If possible, all sports,” he said. Tolentino is encouraging national sports associations to religiously adopt the tried and tested template that produced the country’s first Olympic gold medalist, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, in Tokyo 2020 and double gold medalist, gymnast Carlos Yulo, in Paris 2024.
As they say, it takes a village, yes, it takes a village to produce champions,” said Tolentino, referring to a squad of coaches—sport, nutrition, strength and conditioning and sports science, medicine and psychology—that helped DiazNaranjo and Yulo clinched their lofty nooks in world sports history.
Custodio captures world jiu-jitsu gold medal
By Josef T. Ramos
Pizza Parlor, GCash, Chery Tiggo, F2 Logistics, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, R and B Milk Tea and Summit Water.
UST will face either FEU or UP at the end of the round robin first phase in the crossover quarterfinals. Angge Poyos scored 10 of her 11 points from attacks while Kyla Cordora had a spectacular performance with 10 markers built on nine kills and a kill block for UST. After breezing past the first two sets, UST had to slug it out with UP in the third set where the Fighting Maroons took a 19-18 lead after scoring three straight points.
Dizzying hoops career of Bizzy
former who refused to give up was Eric “Bizzy” Miraflores.
Well, I am not exactly 42 just yet,” smiled Eric. “I will turn 42 this November 16.”
The five-foot-eight guard put on a show with shots from three-point range, from medium range, pull-ups, fades, layups, while ditching opposing players with crossovers, sudden pivots, or by kicking on the afterburners en route to more than 26-points. He left even the Chinese courtside reporter with his mouth agape in disbelief.
The latter is probably the perfect way to describe what has been for his rollercoaster ride of a basketball career.
How does someone who never planted any roots in any team, never saw University Athletic Association of the Philippines, National Collegiate Athletic Association or even Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. ball, was deemed uncoachable and undisciplined, and went undrafted in the Philippine Basketball Association have a career that has seen him rack up over 50,000 kilometers in terms of hoops.
Outside the Philippines, Miraflores has played in Australia, Japan, Malaysia and China. Come 2025, he is going to ball in Vietnam and Thailand too.
You have to understand first his dizzying journey.
Born and raised in Davao, Miraflores went to Manila to pursue his basketball dream. However, impetuousness,
P’Princesa all geared up for World Dragon Boat tilt
MEASURES are in place by the Puerto Princesa City government and the Police for the security and safety of residents, visitors and participants of the International Canoe Federation (ICF) Dragon Boat
IMBERLY ANNE CUSTODIO earned a gold medal in the JiuJitsu International Federation (JJIF) World Championships Saturday in Heraklion, Greece. The 37-year-old two-time jiujitsu world champion brought
“Just
throughout my matches since day one. Everytime I hunt for submissions, they got away and found some good positions. So I played safe to get points,” Custodio told BusinessMirror before flying back home to Manila on Sunday.
“It is better to hold them up and control them until the time expired. They are all good.” S he scored a 9-0 win in her semifinal match against another UAE standout Aysha Alshamsi. In her first match, Custodio defeated Hurma Abdyyeva, 15-0. Custodio, who also won a gold medal in 2022 World Championships in UAE and silver in 2023 edition in Mongolia, expressed her desire to compete in next year’s Southeast Asian Games in December in Thailand and Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Saudi Arabia.
“That is my next goal. To win next year’s tournaments like SEA Games and
didn’t have enough basketball knowledge.”
immaturity and a lack of foresight, saw him collect one basketball jersey to another.
If you want to know what school he played for, you would need a scorecard to keep track.
In no particular order, there was Olivarez College, University of Manila, University of the East and the FEATI Institute of Technology.
That’s just college ball.
The PBL/PBA D-League, there’s Wangs and Bacchus. Over at the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), there are the teams from Zamboanga and Navotas.
W hen he moved to Melbourne, Australia, in 2006, he played for a smattering of squads. His current squad in Australia is the MVL Chargers of the Melbourne Basketball League.
It was there he won a championship—“At last,” he claimed.
“And an MVP Award too.” Plus, he played for the Albury Wodonga Bandits in the National Basketball League One. “I got to experience life as a professional basketball player.”
“I had to grow up and change my attitude,” Eric admitted.
“The reason why I kept moving from one school to another was I was impatient, selfish, and irresponsible.”
“If I felt the coach was unfair, magtatampo ako and look for another team to transfer. I was unfair to my coaches and teammates. But I didn’t understand that back then.”
“I couldn’t find success because I was inexperienced and
Going undrafted in the 2015 PBA Draft hurt. It certainly didn’t dampen his dream of playing in the country’s oldest pro loop as he kept trying. The D-League and the MPBL were steps except, he never got the call up.
Instead, he racked up frequent flyer miles in Asia playing in one tournament to another.
“I was going to give up, man,” he disclosed. “But my partner—Erin Farley—kept encouraging me to chase my basketball career while I can.”
“But more than ever, I am playing for my
DRAG performers, high-energy runway walks and—in particular—a scene some interpreted as the “Last Supper” drew ire from far-right politicians and religious figures across the world. COURTESY OLYMPIC GAMES
PHILIPPINE Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino answers questions from the Thai media in Bangkok.
