Manila Standard - 2024 October 18 - Friday

Bato can’t probe drug war—Chiz Quad leaders to Dela Rosa: Explain ‘allowances’ from Go

By Charles Dantes, Joel Zurbano and Maricel Cruz

ENATE President

SFrancis Escudero said any investigation on the Duterte administration’s bloody war on drugs should not be led by either Senator Ronald dela Rosa or Christopher Go as they were implicated in the alleged reward system that incentivized extrajudicial killings of drug suspects.

Escudero said he will consult his colleagues on the possibility of forming a committee instead to investigate the controversial war on drugs following a suggestion by Senator Risa Hontiveros to convene the Senate Committee of the Whole.

“We’ll face that in the coming days,” Escudero said, adding he has already spoken with Dela Rosa, who was chief of the Philippine National Police during the term of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“I told him that any investigation concerning him and Senator Bong Go should not be led by them,” Escudero said.

‘COA,

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House Quad Committee intends to tap the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to probe the alleged misuse of intelligence funds to reward cops for every drug suspect killed during the Duterte administration.

“We just want to follow the money trail and find out who the mastermind is,” Quad Committee co-chairman and Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. said.

By Charles Dantes

By Vito Barcelo

AT LEAST 22.9% of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger–being hungry and not having anything to eat–at least once in the past three months, according to the survey released by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

Maricel V.

By Pot Chavez and Joel E. Zurbano

THE Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) filed a complaint against lawyer Israelito Torreon, legal counsel of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy, and several others for sedition and inciting to sedition before the Department of Justice (DOJ).

CIDG Director Police Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III personally attested to the veracity of the complaint, the DOJ confirmed Thursday. “We want to assure the public that

Comelec eyes suspect voter listings

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday said it would conduct a probe on the sudden increase of voters, who transferred from one locality to another during the voters’ registration period.

In a press briefing, Comelec chairperson George Garcia said the poll body observed a number of voters, particularly in Makati City, Cagayan de Oro and Nueva Ecija, transferring their residence to another district using barangay certificates as proof of

identifications or IDs.

“It’s OK to move residences; that’s not illegal because the Constitution guarantees the right to travel and liberty of the abode. But this development is puzzling because suddenly, there’s a 40 percent increase in the number of voters applying to

transfer to other places,” Garcia said.

Garcia said this unusual event must be immediately investigated because these voters who transferred could be followers of certain political candidates.

The poll chief will ask the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to investigate the negligence of some barangays in the issuance of barangay certifications that leads to irregular voter transfers.

“The use of barangay certification as proof of residence can be abused by local officials during elections,” Garcia said.

The call for a probe was triggered by

the observation of the United Nationalists Alliance of Sen. Nancy Binay, who is running for Makati City mayor in next year’s elections.

She questioned before the Comelec the validity of the qualifications of 3,000 registrants in the second district and 79 more in the first district.

Binay will be facing Rep. Luis Campos, the husband of her sister, incumbent Mayor Abby Binay who is running for the Senate.

Similar irregularities were observed in the provinces of Nueva Ecija, Cagayan de Oro and Batangas, according to Comelec.

our prosecutors are on top of the situation, this case will be handled thoroughly with utmost diligence and fairness,” said Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

He vowed to closely scrutinize the complaint and file necessary charges, if deemed necessary.

It can be recalled that uniformed personnel from the PNP were aggressively prevented by KOJC supporters in the service of lawful arrest warrants against Quiboloy in August.

The supporters barricaded their compound, closed down national roads near the area, misled and attacked police officers.

The CIDG’s complaint alleged that KOJC members set tires ablaze, sprayed fire extinguishers at policemen, threw at them expired food, solid wastes, monobloc chairs and stones leading some officers to sustain injuries.

“We are also now asking the National Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice to start investigating and prosecuting based on whatever evidence they may use from the hearings,” he added. When asked about the timeline and the scope of the investigation, Abante underscored the importance of uncovering the use of confidential funds from 2016 to 2022.

“We’d like to find out how much confidential funds were obtained during the administration of the former President. Let’s take a closer look if the intel funds really contributed toward the reward system. That’s what we want to see here,” Abante said.

As the investigation continues, connections between the intel funds, Small Town Lottery (STL), POGOs and the drug war reward system are expected to surface, he said.

Retired police colonel and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Royina Garma last week testified before the House Quad Committee that former President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the implementation “on a national scale” of the so-called “Davao template” that rewarded cops for every drug suspect killed.

Garma revealed three modes of payment or rewards: first, for every suspect killed; second for the planned operations; and third, for the refund of operational expenses.

Details about specific bank accounts and transactions will also be pursued based on revelations from witnesses like Garma, Abante said.

Based on testimonies Quad Committee has received, cash incentives of up to P1 million were paid to policemen and hired guns who killed high-profile drug suspects.

“That way, no allegations of bias, partiality, or unfairness can be raised,” he added.

Escudero said while the Committee of the Whole is an option, he is also considering assigning the investigation to another committee—one outside of Dela Rosa’s jurisdiction.

Hontiveros said the Committee of the Whole, chaired by Escudero, will provide a more encouraging environment for families of victims or survivors to come forward and testify.

Quad Committee leaders on Thursday expressed support for the Senate Committee of the Whole to conduct the investigation into the drug war during Duterte’s term.

They also called on Dela Rosa to clarify his recent statement confirming police officers received “allowances” allegedly coursed through the office of Go, then Special Assistant to the President.

Quad Comm lead chair Rep. Robert Ace Barbers of Surigao del Sur and

co-chair Rep. Dan Fernandez of Sta. Rosa City said the nature of the cash payments, which Dela Rosa referred to as “allowances,” should be fully explained, including why they were given and to whom.

“We support this call by Senator Hontiveros to continue the Senate Committee of the Whole investigation on the EJKs of the previous administration’s drug war. We are very pleased that both houses of Congress are of one mind in this,” Barbers said.

Fernandez echoed Barbers’ sentiments, saying Dela Rosa, as chief architect and enforcer of the drug war, should be transparent about the cash payments.

“Senator Dela Rosa cannot lead this Senate investigation because there is an obvious conflict of interest. He himself carried out the orders under the bloody anti-drug campaign. He was at the helm of this war, so he cannot objectively lead the probe,” Fernandez said.

“Senator Bato must have delicadeza. As the architect of the war on drugs, Senator Bato would be practically investigating himself. This undermines the integrity and objectivity of any findings that may result from

this investigation,” he added.

Escudero said Dela Rosa was agreeable to his position that a separate committee would investigate the drug warrelated killings.

“But of course, he has the right to participate in the discussions,” the Senate president said.

Dela Rosa, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, earlier said he wants to conduct a separate probe into the drug war during the time of Duterte.

Go said he is also willing to investigate the allegations of cash incentives for cops.

Retired police colonel and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Royina Garma last week testified before the House Quad Committee that Duterte ordered the implementation “on a national scale” of the so-called “Davao template” that rewarded cops for every drug suspect killed.

Garma revealed three modes of payment or rewards: first, for every suspect killed; second for the planned operations; and third, for the refund of operational expenses.

Aside from Torreon, the CIDG also filed inciting to sedition charges against former National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) spokesperson Lorraine Marie Badoy and Lord Byron Cristobal aka “Banat By,” among others for posting allegedly seditious videos in their Facebook page.

Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros called out Quiboloy for stubbornly refusing to attend hearings at the Upper Chamber.

It can be recalled that Quiboloy’s camp requested the Pasig Regional Trial Court 159 to shield him from the Senate hearing set on Oct. 23. The Senator said she would ultimately defer to the court’s decision on the matter, even as she reminded the detained pastor that he “really has an obligation to respond and not ignore the invitations and subpoenas from the Senate, especially his obligation to face his victims in their hearing.”

She pointed out that alleged victims of sexual abuse have long been waiting for the chance to face their supposed tormentor and give a recount of their ordeals in the hands of the self-proclaimed “appointed son of god.”

“Many of them have waited years to get the opportunity to talk about what really happened to them [in Quiboloy’s hands]. Some of them were minors when they were abused by Apollo Quiboloy,” the lawmaker said Thursday.

Hontiveros’ the committee on Women, Family, and Gender Relations also requested the Pasig RTC to allow Quiboloy’s co-accused, namely Jackielyn Roy, Cresente Canada, Pauline Canada, Ingrid Canada, and Sylvia Cemañes, to attended next week’s hearing.

As this developed, the court has dismissed Quiboloy’s plea for hospital arrest, according to the lawyers of one of the pastor’s alleged victims, known only as “Amanda.”

invited the former VP to attend.

“I invited her (Robredo) to welcome the president in behalf of Bicol,” the former Sorsogon governor said.

Brief as their “cordial” encounter may have been, the Senate President expressed hope that this would begin the “healing” process for the two erstwhile political rivals.

“The way I see it, this is where the healing of wounds start... As they say, whatever misunderstanding or differences in political views transpired in the past, these were not personal,” Escudero said in Filipino.

Escudero however insisted that there was no veiled significance to Robredo’s attendance, pointing out that several figures had been invited.

“We invited many (people),” Escudero said, noting that some guests, including Senators Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and Lito Lapid, left earlier and were unable to stay for the President’s arrival.

Robredo, meanwhile, stayed and chose to welcome Mr. Marcos despite their history of political rivalry.

This is the first time the two were seen in public together after the 2022 elections.

In an interview, Escudero said he hoped that Robredo could join the President and other officials on stage during the program, but the former vice president had an appointment in Naga City.

The third quarter data released by the SWS on October 17, showed a 5.3-point increase from the 17.6% recorded in June 2024. It is also the highest rate since the 30.7% reported during the COVID-19 lockdowns in September 2020.

The resulting 2024 three-quarter hunger average of 18.2% was 7.5 points above the 2023 annual hunger average of 10.7% and just 2.9 points below the

record-high 2020 annual hunger average of 21.1%.

As of September 2024, the experience of hunger was highest in Mindanao at 30.7% of families, followed by the Visayas at 26.0%, Metro Manila at 21.7%, and Balance Luzon (or Luzon outside Metro Manila) at 18.1%

The 5.3-point rise in hunger between June 2024 and September 2024 was due to sharp increases in Mindanao and the Visayas, combined with a slight increase in Metro Manila and a slight decline in Balance Luzon.

SWS pointed out that the 22.9% hun-

ger rate in September consists of 16.8% of families experiencing “moderate hunger” and 6.1% facing “severe hunger.”

Moderate hunger refers to those who felt hunger “only once or a few times” in the past three months, while severe hunger refers to those who experienced it “often or always.”

From June to September, moderate hunger increased from 12.8% to 16.8%, while severe hunger rose from 4.9% to 6.1%.

In Metro Manila, moderate hunger remained steady at 13.3%, while severe

hunger increased from 6.7% to 8.3%. In Balance Luzon, moderate hunger decreased from 14.5% to 13%, while severe hunger stayed at 5.1%.

In the Visayas, moderate hunger surged from 10.7% to 20%, while severe hunger rose from 3% to 6%.

I n Mindanao, moderate hunger increased significantly from 10.7% to 24%, while severe hunger rose from 5% to 6.7%.

The SWS survey was conducted from Sept. 14 to 23 through face-to-face interviews with 1,500 adults aged 18 and above nationwide.

Financial Services), Special Disbursing Officer Gina Acosta, Chief Accountant Julieta Villadelrey, and former Department of Education (DepEd) Special Disbursing Officer Edward Fajarda, who is now also with the OVP.

The committee issued show-cause orders to the said OVP officials following their absences. Chua signaled that further action may include contempt citations and possible arrests if they continue to evade the inquiry.

The investigation stems from accusations surrounding the misuse of P125

million in confidential funds by the OVP, with P73 million being flagged by the Commission on Audit (COA).

The COA’s report raised red flags after the bulk of the amount was spent in just 11 days, from December 20 to 31, 2022. Despite the issuance of showcause orders, none of the officials in question attended recent hearings.

The OVP even wrote a letter to the House of Representatives asserting its right to refuse to participate in the said inquiry, citing a Supreme Court ruling, which set the distinction between resource persons and accused individuals.

The OVP submitted a position paper to the House of Representatives dating October 17, citing the case of Calida

v. Trillanes, where the Supreme Court held “that persons invited to appear before a legislative inquiry do so as resource persons and not as accused in a criminal proceeding.”

“We respectfully take the position that the deliberation or hearing is unnecessary and that the attendance of the officials and personnel of the Office of the Vice President is therefore not needed,” the OVP stated in the position paper.

Chua, in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration and the Department of Justice (DOJ), also requested the issuance of a lookout bulletin order to ensure the officials do not evade accountability by leaving the country.

“May I also request that a lookout

bulletin order be issued as well in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration and DOJ,” he added.

The hearing also touched on the alleged role of Lopez, the OVP Chief of Staff, and her team in managing the disbursements and the lack of transparency in the use of the funds.

This investigation is part of a broader inquiry into the OVP’s budgetary practices and the questionable use of government funds. The inquiry also touched on the irregularities during Duterte’s term as DepEd Secretary.

The issue stirred public interest, with calls for greater oversight of government spending and the role of high-ranking officials in ensuring proper use of public funds.

Troops unearth firearms caches in isolated spots of Quezon, Mindoro

By Rex Espiritu

TROOPS from Army’s 4th and 80th Infantry Battalions have dug up firearms caches in Quezon and Oriental Mindoro provinces.

2nd Infantry Division (2ID) Division Public Affairs Office Chief Lt. Col. Jeffrex Molina said elements of the Army’s 80th Infantry Battalion (80IB) have unearthed an arms cache of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in an isolated area in South Madaki, Barangay Umiray, General Nakar in Quezon.

Lt. Col. Mark Anthony Ruby, commanding officer of the 80IB said the cache, consisting of two M16 rifles, an M4 carbine, an M203 Grenade Launcher, two improvised shotguns, an improvised M14 rifle, two bandoliers; three long magazines for M16, six short magazines for M16, and multiple rounds of ammunition, were retrieved on a tip from a local villager.

Molina said with the help of the community, the 2ID will continue to eliminate remnants of the NPA in the region, and sustain initiatives toward a sustainable peace and security in the Southern Tagalog Region. Meanwhile due to continued collaboration with various security partners, the troops of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) also seized another arms cache in South Darayao, Brgy Panaytayan, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro.

According to reports, that the troops of the 4th Infantry Battalion (4IB) were conducting security operations in the area when a local resident informed them about a weapons buried by the NPA.

The cache consisted of an M16 rifle, an M14 rifle, an upper receiver of a Garand rifle, a shotgun, three magazines for an M16 rifle with 136 rounds of ammunition, three magazines for an M14 rifle with 44 rounds of ammunition, and two blasting caps.

Angara cites achievements during first 100 days in office

CHARGE HER UP. Drivers of these e-trikes have their batteries charged at a special station in Tondo, Manila before getting on the road. Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office announces the suspension of e-vehicles registration pending further study on their road worthiness. Norman Cruz

Comelec asked to declare 246 local bets as ‘nuisance’

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections

(Comelec) has received 246 special action cases or petitions seeking the disqualification of some aspirants in the 2025 local elections as nuisance candidates.

Poll chairman George Garcia said of the 246 petitions , 104 were still pending.

The Comelec poll also listed 117

special action cases motu proprio to declare aspirants as nuisance candidates Garcia said the petitions they received before the deadline of filing onOct.16, were all lodged against local post aspirants, with nothing filed at the national level.

“They are all for local, so far no one has not filed in the national level, maybe because they know that Comelec can declare them motu proprio in

the national positions and maybe they know that at least when it is local, the opponents can file the petition,” Garcia said.

He vowed to resolve the cases involving nuisance candidates for the May 2025 midterm elections by the end of November this year.

“This is the crucial time for the election process, because we are eyeing to start printing ballots by December,” Garcia added.

CULTIVATING SEEDS TOGETHER

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

NEARING his first 100 days in office, former senator-turned Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara makes an accounting of his accomplishments aligned with President Marcos’ directive to secure basic education services and prepare learners for work.

“We made the curriculum more flexible to maximize the learning time of students. We created a PISA Task Force to prepare our students for the upcoming international assessment. We’re assessing our reading interventions and Senior High School curriculum,” Angara said during a luncheon meeting hosted by European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) on Wednesday.

Angara also noted the efforts of his department in improving the benefits of teachers, which includes a review of the Teacher Development Plan, policy on career progression, and additional benefits.

“Our teachers need policies that give them more time to teach, more resources for their lessons, more salary in their bank accounts. They require sturdy career progress and reliable support like guidance counsellors, both currently lacking in our system.” Angara said.

Moreover, he underscored the significance of existing partnerships with organizations like Khan Academy, Frontlearners, iamtheCODE, Jollibee, Rebisco, and Milo, as well as international bodies such as the World Bank and UNICEF to strengthen DepEd programs.

SN Aboitiz Power and Hedcor building strong and lasting relationships with IPs

THE priceless Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras is a mark of the proud Ifugao people, bearing witness to 2,000 years of sustainable farming, culture, and people development.

Passed on from generation to generation, farmers still rely on the intricate irrigation network to this day, nurturing tradition, the ecosystem, as well as the community’s livelihood.

Assessing the need to help the indigenous community preserve the rice terraces, SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) came up with a watershed management program called “Partnership in Uplifting Upland Natural Resources, Livelihood, and Assets-Upper Magat Watershed Management Program” or PUNLAUpper Magat in 2019 to help protect and restore critical watershed areas in Ifugao and boost agricultural productivity.

SNAP is a joint venture between Scatec of Norway and Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) for the operation of large hydropower facilities in Luzon, including the 388 megawatt Magat Hydro in Ifugao. Covering the Upper Magat Watershed and supporting integrated projects in adjacent municipalities, PUNLA has helped restore stonewalls, establish agroforestry and demonstration farms, provide agricultural and food processing equipment, build forest nurseries and greenhouses, and plant native tree species. Under the banner of PUNLA, productivity has been reinstated in close to 28 hectares of rice terraces in Mayoyao and approximately six hectares of previously abandoned rice terraces have been rehabilitated. Moreover, over 48 hectares of forest was rehabilitated in Banaue, while a 52-hectare site in Hungduan was reforested. Through the help of PUNLA in the Cordilleras, the Ifugao Rice Terraces —with its traditions, ecosystems, and livelihoods—can be passed on to the next generation.

“Maganda ‘yung project dahil nakakapagtanim kami para rin sa kinabukasan; may aantayin ‘yung mga bata o ‘yung pamilya namin (This project is remarkable because it enables us to plant not only for the present but also for the future; something that our children and families can look forward to),” said IP farmer Juliano Diclihon. Community shares

Much like PUNLA — which is a Filipino word for “the cultivation of seeds”—AboitizPower hopes that IPs and other host communities will culti-

A beneficiary of SN Aboitiz Power’s PUNLA watershed management program, Juliano Diclihon, proudly shows the Ifugao Rice Terraces.

From left: Hedcor External Relations SouthMin supervisor Christer Torres receives the ‘Champion for Indigenous Peoples’ award from NCIP Region XI director lawyer Geroncio Aguio. vate the seeds it has sown in local development initiatives. SNAP has remitted over P167-million in community shares since 2018 to the host communities of SNAP-Magat and SNAP-Benguet in compliance with the Philippine government’s Energy Regulations No. 1-94 (ER 1-94) policy. ER 1-94 is meant to ensure that host communities get a reasonable share of the profit from power plants operating in their area. It states that these communities will receive one centavo for every kilowatt-hour (P0.01/ kWh) of electricity generated. The funds generated by SNAP were used by beneficiaries for the electrifica-

tion of areas and households; reforestation, watershed management, health, and environment enhancement; and development and livelihood.

Likewise, Hedcor, an AboitizPower renewable energy asset manager, has rightfully allocated royalty shares to fund developmental projects that further the growth and sustainability of ancestral domains within the communities where it operates.

Hedcor has over 45 years of experience in operating renewable energy assets, mostly run-of-river hydropower systems, with facilities in Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, Benguet, Davao, and Bukidnon.

Since 2015, various IP communities in Benguet and Mountain Province have utilized over P30 million in royalty shares and other financial benefits to build infrastructure, support local livelihoods, and protect their ancestral domains and native forests. Projects that have significantly benefited them are the fencing of the watershed perimeter in Sabangan and the planting of indigenous tree species to improve water retention and contribute to watershed sustainability.

Similarly, in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, IP communities have received over P45 million in royalty shares since 2010 which support education, healthcare, skills training, cultural preservation, and infrastructure, including the concreting of critical slopes and the development of water systems for the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribes.

“The financial support from Hedcor is more than just a contribution; it’s an investment in our future,” said Matanam Gideon Tolentino, an IP leader. “These funds will

Hedcor, together with the Aboitiz Foundation, also helps several IP groups in Bukidnon through upskilling and livelihood assistance. Pictured are women from the Guihean IP Women’s Association undergoing a sewing skills training program to produce items such as curtains, school uniforms, and traditional garb. enable us to create sustainable programs that elevate our quality of life while preserving our cultural heritage. This partnership is essential to our community’s growth and long-term sustainability.” IP youth and their future

But beyond rightfully allocating community and royalty shares from the operation of its power plants in the area, AboitizPower is uplifting its social responsibility to IPs through its corporate social responsibility programs. Akin to this IP month’s theme of “Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge”, SNAP and Hedcor are also supporting the future of the IPs through the education of their youth. SNAP’s BRIGHTS education program — an abbreviation for “Bridging Gaps in Higher Education through Tertiary Scholarships” — gives deserving students from its host communities, including IPs, opportunities to become well-rounded individuals through scholarships, financial aid, seminars, and volunteer outreach programs.

For the school year 2024, BRIGHTS saw eleven beneficiaries who graduated, six of whom are Latin honors and two are honorable mentions. Since its inception in 2018, a total of 115 college scholars have received educational assistance through the program. Three former BRIGHTS scholars are currently employed in SNAP.

“BRIGHTS gave me a solid founda-

tion. Salamat ja pasiya (thank you so much),” said beneficiary Jasmin Montes, an Ibaloi who also recently joined SNAP-Benguet as a Corporate Social Responsibility Assistant. “I started building my future with SNAP, and to this day I continue to build it with them. Now I’m also helping them build their future, and, in turn, the future of the communities they serve.” Meanwhile, Hedcor’s education initiatives also help provide IPs with access to higher education, giving the youth the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to their respective communities. Since offering scholarships in 2010, there have been 57 scholars from its host communities across Luzon and Mindanao, with the majority being IPs.

For its support to IP communities in the Davao region, Hedcor was even named “Champion for Indigenous Peoples” by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region XI, cited as “uplifting the lives of IP communities, while respecting and preserving their cultural heritage” and setting “a standard for corporate responsibility.” AboitizPower believes that sustaining the business is about building strong and lasting relationships. By upholding social responsibility and being a good neighbor, it is looking beyond power generation and distribution to genuinely Transform Energy for a Better World for IPs and host communities.

NEDA approves infra projects worth P64.9b

IN BRIEF

Aviation authority ink deal on regional cooperation

THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has joined Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand in the Regional Aviation Safety Data and Information Sharing Initiative.

This initiative aims to enhance CAAP’s safety management activities by using safety data to identify emerging hazards, track trends, and improve risk management, in line with the goals of the AsiaPacific Regional Aviation Safety Plan.

The agreement was formalized during the 59th Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Conference in Lapu Lapu City, Cebu. This collaboration, first proposed at the Asia-Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety in Singapore in 2023, reflects the Philippines’ commitment to ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety in the region.

CAAP Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo signed the MOU alongside his counterparts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. According to Tamayo, the cross-border nature of aviation requires collaboration. Joel E. Zurbano

PCG, OTS sign pact on ships, ports safety

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) have signed an accord for the security and safety of international ships and ports and joint training initiatives.

In a statement, the PCG said the memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed by PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and Transportation Security Administrator, Undersecretary Crisaldo Nieves, at the National Headquarters of Philippine Coast Guard in Port Area, Manila on Tuesday, October 15. During the meeting, the PCG chief said that the agreement represented more than a formal arrangement “but a symbol of a shared vision for growth, innovation, and an integrated approach to maritime security.” Vince Lopez

NTF-ELCAC mapping out national peace plan

THE National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is mapping out a national action plan for Unity, Peace and Development (NAP UPD) for 2024-2028.

The task force also said they are actively engaging civil society organizations to gather input for the said plan. During the dialogue held at La Breza Hotel in Quezon City, Undersecretary Ernesto C. Torres, Jr., NTF-ELCAC Executive Director, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving lasting peace and development.

The event brought together leaders from the various sectors like education, business and defense. “We are requesting our civil society partners to suspend judgment and understand the true nature of the task force,” he said. “This dialogue is an opportunity to forge partnerships and work together towards our common objective of peace and development.” Rex Espiritu

DepEd supports plan to suspend academic program

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Education (DepEd) backed House Resolution 1805, urging the agency to suspend the regular academic program for eight to 12 weeks to implement an effective learning recovery program that ensures learners attain functional literacy and numeracy.

In Wednesday’s hearing conducted by the House committee on basic education and culture chaired by Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo, DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching Gina Gonong said upon consultation with internal stakeholders, the DepEd submitted a proposal to the committee following the ABC Plus Model of Literacy and Numeracy Program for the eight-week learning recovery program.

She said the DepEd has prepared a timeline of activities towards implementation of the eight-week learning recovery program.

“The timeline is part of the position paper that we submitted to the committee. So this 2024, we’ll continue consulting with stakeholders. We’ve promised teacher groups that we’ll go back to them when we’ll do the specific designs, (and) trainings for the program. We are also currently doing an inventory and mapping of learning resources on top of the ABC Plus learning resources,” Gonong told legislators.

The following will be the DepEd’s tasks until December next year in line with the learning recovery program implementation, according to Gonong : 1) February, download funds to regional offices and schools division offices to augment their funds for the procurement of printing and delivery of ABC Plus resource packages; 2) March and April, reproduction of the learning resources; 3) April, training of trainors; 4) May, distribution of learning resources to schools by regions and divisions; 5) Third or last week of May, training of teachers at the local level by regional and division trainers; 6) June 16, start of classes. The first two weeks will be devoted to the pre-assessment and grouping of learners based on assessment, to be followed by formative assessments; 7) End of schoolyear, two or three weeks before the examination, the teachers will do post assessments of students.

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Charles Dantes

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board has approved two major infrastructure projects valued at a combined P64.9 billion, which aims to improve connectivity and healthcare in the Philippines. During its 21st meeting, the NEDA Board, which is chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., approved the P37-billion Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project (MTCIP), a project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to be financed through an official development assistance (ODA) loan from the World Bank (WB). The project, which was submitted to the Investment

in Bukidnon; Link Road 2 from Fatima Malabog Road to Saloy-Bantol-Davao-Bukidnon Road to Panabo City; and Link Road 3 from the National Highway Junction in Poblacion Malungon to Sta. Maria Road, Davao Occidental.

ASEAN reaffirms commitment to disaster risk plan

MEMBER states of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) reaffirm their commitment to strengthen disaster risk reduction and resilience in the region.

In their joint statement for the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024, member states said they appreciated the leadership shown by the Philippines in co-organizing the said conference with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).

“We are determined to speed up our efforts to strengthen disaster risk reduction in the region towards realiz-

ing a disaster resilient ASEAN Community,” the statement said.

The statement also emphasizes the full implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER), and regional frameworks that address disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and inclusivity.

It also highlights key actions such as: 1. Enhancing disaster risk reduction financing and innovative funding mechanisms.

2. Ensuring no one is left behind in resilience building, with special attention to vulnerable groups.

3. Strengthening local capacities and promoting rural and urban resilience.

4. Leveraging science, technology, and innovation for disaster management.

5. Encouraging partnerships with various stakeholders, including the private sector.

ASEAN also emphasizes its role as a global leader in disaster management and aims to contribute to international efforts in disaster resilience. Rex Espiritu

Lacuna says Manila seniors to receive P12k yearly in 2025

MANILA Mayor Honey Lacuna on Thursday announced that senior citizens of the city will be receiving P12,000 annually starting 2025.

This benefit was signed into law yesterday through City Ordinance number 9081. According to Lacuna, the city has scoured its coffers to pull funds to extend this benefit to its senior residents.

“We, the council, worked hard to make this into a reality. We are one with our senior residents, and we feel their struggles,” the incumbent mayor said.

“We hope that this law will help our senior citizens in their daily needs, especially for their maintenance medicines,” she added. Meanwhile, Manila senior citizens are grateful for the passage of the law.

Senior citizen allowance beneficiary Lily Desalesa from Brgy. 179, expressed their gratitude and joy to this exciting news.

“We are grateful for the increase in our allowance because this benefit will allow us to buy more maintenance medicines,” said Lola Lily.

AVIATION CONFAB. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo joins his counterparts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand in the 59th Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Conference held in Lapu Lapu City, Cebu.

Stabbing is the proximate cause of death

SOMETIMES an aggressor does not intend the serious consequences of his acts. However, if a person commits a felony, “[he or she] is criminally liable for all the natural and logical consequences resulting therefrom unless there was an efficient intervening active force that intervened between the felony committed and the resulting injury” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

In the case of People v. Lalap, “[w]hile Honorio was eating, Mario Lalap entered the house through the kitchen’s door and immediately stabbed Honorio from behind. Honorio stood up but Mario tried to pull the former outside of [the] house [and] [a]fter failing to pull him outside[,] Mario stabbed Honorio for the second time…” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021)

“While Honorio was being stabbed, Mario shouted at Honorio saying ‘… papatayin kita. Tsismoso ka.’ Joy [daughter of Honorio] begged Mario to stop by shouting ‘Tama na po’ but Mario ignored her plea” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

“The accused learned from his wife, after the latter monitored the condition of Honorio… that he was getting better and was about to be discharged from the hospital. However, Honorio suddenly suffered a cardiac arrest and died [consequently].”

“[Mario] argues that the CA and the RTC overlooked the fact that the stab wound allegedly sustained by the victim was not the immediate and direct cause of his death. He maintains that based on the records, the immediate cause of the victim’s death which occurred nine days after the stabbing incident is cardiorespiratory arrest.”

“The case of Quinto v. Andres, explained ‘that a person committing a felony is criminally liable for all the natural and logical consequences resulting therefrom unless there was an efficient intervening active force that intervened between the felony committed and the resulting injury… although the wrongful act done be different from that which he intended’” (cited in People v. Lalap, G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

“‘Natural’ refers to an occurrence in the ordinary course of human life or events, while ‘logical’ means that there is a rational connection between the act of the accused and the resulting injury or damage. The felony committed must be the proximate cause of the resulting injury” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

“Proximate cause is that cause which in natural and continuous sequence, unbroken by an efficient intervening cause, produces the injury, and without which the result would not have occurred.” “There must be a relation of ‘cause and effect,’ the cause being the felonious act of the offender, the effect being the resultant injuries and/ or death of the victim” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

“The ‘cause and effect’ relationship is not altered or changed [by] pre-existing conditions, such as the pathological condi-

tion of the victim…, the predisposition of the offended party…, [and] the physical condition of the offended party…; [as well as] concomitant or concurrent conditions, such as the negligence or fault of the doctors… or the conditions supervening the felonious act such as tetanus, pulmonary infection or gangrene” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

“If a person inflicts a wound with a deadly weapon in such a manner as to put life in jeopardy and death follows as a consequence of their felonious act, it does not alter its nature or diminish its criminality to prove that other causes cooperated in producing the factual result” (G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021).

Sometimes an aggressor does not intend the serious consequences of his acts.

“While the immediate cause of the victim’s death as reflected in the Medical Certificate is cardiorespiratory arrest, the stab wound that [Honorio] inflicted on the vital part of the victim’s body is the proximate cause of the victim’s death. The stab wound is the cause which in the natural and continuous sequence, unbroken by an efficient intervening cause, produces the victim’s death, and without which the result would not have occurred.”

“Logically, there is a rational connection between the act of [Honorio] stabbing the victim and the resulting death. Without the stab wound, the victim could not have been hospitalized and later died therefrom.”

“Moreover, there is no evidence that an efficient intervening active force, not connected with or absolutely foreign to the stab wound, intervened during the nine-day period which could have caused the victim’s death. Thus, even if there was another factor but such is not an efficient intervening cause, [Honorio] is still criminally liable for the death of the victim…”

“[E]ven [if] for argument’s sake… the victim was previously suffering a disease or ailment, accused-appellant is still liable because his act of stabbing the victim hastened or accelerated the victim’s death.

Thus, in Garcia v. People the Court said: x x x [A]lthough the assaulted party was previously affected by some internal malady, if, because of a blow given with the hand or the foot, his death was hastened, beyond peradventure he is responsible therefor who produced the cause for such acceleration as the result of a voluntary and unlawfully inflicted injury.” (cited in G.R. No. 250895, June 16, 2021)

Regulatory capture: Sec. Bautista’s Waterloo?

WE can only commiserate with Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista. No doubt, he has made waves in his current post, particularly with his department’s gains in rail-based transportation.

It looks like these gains could be overshadowed by talk that he has not paid enough attention to air transportation, particularly to the mounting woes of our travelling countrymen. If the woes are left unattended, talk that there is regulatory capture in Secretary Bautista’s turf just might overshadow the token efforts of his agency to improve air travel. The disappointment might be bigger since the public knows that Secretary Bautista was a major player in the air transportation sector, given that he was previously the head of the country’s flag carrier. The public may have presumed that since he is now a public servant, he would side “with the people” when the Filipino flying public encounters problems with airlines, particularly international carriers.

We hope the Secretary is aware of such woes. Has his air transportation undersecretary kept him abreast of these woes? It appears there are many complaints that have been filed with the quasi-judicial body under Secretary Bautista’s supervision. Many of these cases are similar to the plight of Loreto Simangan, a Filipino who filed a

complaint against Japan Airlines (JAL) years ago.

We recall that this case was the subject of a landmark Supreme Court decision in 2008. The High Court reaffirmed that salient provision in the Air Passengers Bill of Rights. That was a classic David vs. Goliath case—a private passenger fighting a huge, well-oiled Japanese airline. Expectedly, the David prevailed.

We hope he is aware of such woes.

Now, the Simangan vs. JAL case has a lot of parallelisms with another case now pending before the Appellate Court. In this latter case, four passengers were denied boarding by the Emirates airline despite having travel documents in order, including valid visas from the Turkish government. After being unable to leave in May last year, the four passengers filed a complaint against Emirates before the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB). The CAB— the agency under Secretary Jimmy’s supervision—rejected it. Complainants filed a motion for reconsideration but again, CAB junked it, prompting them to elevate the case to the

TBato’s brilliance

HE sight of Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa crying in public is nothing new. One of those occasions happened nearly eight years ago, at a Senate hearing, when he was still chief of the Philippine National Police. This was during the first year of the Duterte administration, with Dela Rosa implementing the muchfeared war on drugs.

“Pinapasa-Diyos ko na lang itong sa PNP. Gustong-gusto kong mareform ang PNP. Ako’y hirap na hirap na (I’m just leaving the situation at the PNP to God. I really want to reform the PNP. I’m really having a difficult time),” the then-Police chief said, revealing what others would deem a softer side as opposed to the tough-cop stance consistent with his boss’.

“There are times that I don’t know who to trust, who is in or out of the drug business,” Dela Rosa added.

Many things have happened since. Thanks to Duterte’s backing, Dela

Rosa is now himself a senator. The former president has gone back to Davao and now wants to become mayor again. Other Dutertes are gunning for various other posts, even as his daughter, the vice president, has severed ties with the current administration.

—“—

The senator has more reasons to cry anew.

Now, too, alleged drug lord Kerwin Espinosa -- the man who handed a tissue box to Dela Rosa at the latter’s emotional moment during that 2016 hearing – says it was Dela Rosa who coerced him into saying that former Justice Secretary and Senator Leila de Lima was a protector of drug activities. De Lima spent seven years in prison for these accusations.

In response, Dela Rosa said he would punch Espinosa in the face for spreading lies about him.

The senator, who now heads the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, now proposes a parallel probe where he could look into the war on drugs, since the former general manager of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, former Col. Royina Garma, detailed an elaborate

IN A tense moment before the House of Representatives’ Quad committee, Royina Garma stepped up not to testify, but to unveil a dark secret. She exposed what she called the “Davao template,” a lethal system of financial rewards for killing drug suspects. It wasn’t just policy—it was a blood-soaked blueprint that extended far beyond Davao. Now, with her revelation, the question of how deeply this conspiracy ran into the Duterte administration emerged, and the world held its breath.

The implications were staggering, touching not only on Duterte’s war on drugs but entangling figures like Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Napolcom Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo, and others within Duterte’s circle. Garma and Leonardo are now accused of orchestrating extrajudicial killings, including the high-profile murder of Wesley Barayuga, a supposed drug target. Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza, who testified that Leonardo engineered Barayuga’s assassination with Garma’s consent, brought the state-sponsored brutality into sharp focus. This was no rogue act, but part of a cold, calculated system. And as the Quad committee probed deeper, a web of deceit, blood money, and political protection began to unravel.

The international stakes are just as high. For years, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has been eyeing Duterte, investigating the brutalities of his drug war, where thousands of lives were snuffed out. Garma’s testimony gave the ICC a new weapon—proof of a reward system that turned killings into business. Under the Rome Statute, such orchestrated violence is more than a crime; it’s a systematic attack against civilians, the very definition of a crime against humanity.

The reward system, as described by Garma, ripped apart the basic tenets of Philippine and international law. The right to life, due process, and legal oversight were annihilated by a scheme that incentivized officers to murder, bypassing courts and eliminating oversight. This was a direct affront to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which

Court of Appeals (CA), claiming that CAB failed in its mandate to protect passengers’ rights.

The petitioner’s appeal pointed at alleged “regulatory capture”: “The systemic failure on the part of CAB to go against erring giant airlines is a clear indication of regulatory capture of its agency that has resulted in utter prejudice to passengers,” the appeal read.

“Instead of applying the law and punishing the airline, CAB failed to utilize its regulatory powers against the airlines because it has become beholden to its industry. It is even public knowledge that certain top officials of the agency have a history of being closely associated with the private airline industry,” it added.

financial incentive scheme that supposedly drove the Duterte administration’s drug war. Another senator, former Duterte aide Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, has been named as a major player in the scheme. An indignant Dela Rosa plans to call other Duterte-era officials and perhaps Duterte himself so that they could shed light on the matter. He invoked the principle of checks and balance in calling for the Senate probe.

But before Dela Rosa’s idea is taken seriously instead of being seen as a desperate attempt to save face, there must be an established need for new laws, or amendments to existing laws, on the issue at hand. Many people need reminding that this is the very purpose of hearings in aid of legislation. They are not supposed to exist for entertainment, political theater, or a battle for the people’s hearts and minds. Second, Bato must realize that for “checks and balance” to be truly at work, he has to recognize the screaming conflict of interest if he leads a probe that would look into his activities at his previous job. He must do the obvious course of action, step away, and let his colleagues investigate the drug war, himself included. Only then will the probe be credible.

Dela Rosa, however, may not like that idea. It would mean he could only cry in private.

Blood money

the Philippines had pledged to uphold. This “Davao template” was not just a local operation—it implicated high-level officials, including Bong Go. Garma’s bombshell linked Go to the killings, with reports that Leonardo briefed the country’s highest-ranking security officers on how to execute these operations. Garma’s account painted a damning portrait: a top-down chain of command from enforcers in the streets to the very halls of power.

—“—

This is the supposed reward system that drove Duterte’s war on drugs.

The consequences for public trust in law enforcement are dire. Instead of protecting the public, officers became bounty hunters, profiting from human lives. This system of violence broke every moral and ethical code and deepened a culture of impunity. The legal fallout from Garma’s testimony is enormous. The Philippine Constitution guarantees due process, yet the reward system rendered these protections meaningless. Republic Act No. 6713, which enforces ethical standards for public officials, was shredded by the corruption that this scheme bred. And the Philippine Supreme Court’s decisions, like Manalo v. Secretary of National Defense, which emphasize state responsibility in protecting citizens, were defied by those sworn to uphold them.

International law, too, casts a long shadow over this case. Duterte’s administration, with its ties to extrajudicial killings, faces potential prosecution under Article 7 of the Rome Statute. The legal precedents are clear—systematic attacks on civilians are prosecutable, as seen in cases like Prosecutor v. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo. Duterte and his allies cannot ignore the mounting evidence against them, even if they deny direct involvement.

Here is the part that should concern Secretary Bautista. The complaint pointed out that a key officer of CAB is the former country head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in the Philippines. We certainly hope that the said portion is not referring to Undersecretary Bobby Lim. We hope not, because that could only boost the claim of “regulatory capture” which is unfair to both the Secretary and his Undersecretary for Air Transportation. But that seems to be the tenor of the complaint. It added: “Notably, IATA is an international trade association established precisely to represent the interests of airlines around the globe. Given this close association with the private airline industry, it

However, Duterte’s defenders, including those aligned with Garma and Leonardo, may argue that the war on drugs was a necessary evil—a brutal yet effective solution to an entrenched criminal scourge. They could claim that the reward system was an unfortunate but pragmatic tool for fighting an unprecedented drug crisis. And Duterte’s camp has long argued that the ICC lacks jurisdiction, especially after the Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019. According to them, these are matters for domestic courts, not international tribunals.

But Garma’s revelations create an inescapable legal quagmire for Duterte. Her testimony, combined with that of other witnesses like Arturo Lascañas and Edgar Matobato, gives the ICC a wealth of evidence that a directive for state-sponsored killings existed. Yet, Duterte’s refusal to cooperate with the ICC may stall justice. His political allies, particularly in the Senate, could obstruct domestic investigations, further complicating the path to accountability. Nonetheless, the principle of command responsibility could ensnare Duterte, even if he did not personally give the orders. The legal battle is far from over. The ICC faces an uphill struggle, especially with Duterte’s stonewalling tactics. But international pressure, coupled with the growing number of witnesses willing to come forward, could keep the wheels of justice moving. In the Philippines, however, justice depends on whether the judiciary can act without interference. The Supreme Court has shown in cases like Estrada v. Desierto that it can hold the powerful accountable, but whether it will do so again remains a question.

For Duterte, Garma, and Leonardo, the walls are closing in. Denial may buy them time, but it won’t erase the blood that’s been shed. As more witnesses step into the light and the truth about this reward system is laid bare, the victims of the drug war may yet see justice. The question is whether the Philippines is ready to confront the horrors of its past—and if it’s willing to pay the price for redemption.

cannot be gainsaid that there exist circumstances which raise doubts as to the agency’s capacity to render a fair and impartial ruling. The Supreme Court has consistently held that judges or hearing officers “should not only be impartial but should also appear impartial,” they pointed out. It appears Secretary Bautista may be caught in a clash between conflict of interest and regulatory capture, on one hand, and passenger’s rights, on the other. In all likelihood, we can expect the case to reach the Supreme Court as the venue of last resort. We hope Secretary Bautista takes a look at this and addresses it before such allegations taint his accomplishments in his post. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Senator urges DSWD to revisit 4Ps in light of child malnutrition LTO suspends registration of e-vehicles

By Joel E. Zurbano

SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano urges the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to reassess the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) amid concerns about child malnutrition and stunting in the country.

Cayetano emphasized that despite the program’s objectives, one-third of Filipino children still suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition.

Cayetano questions the effectiveness of the 4Ps in addressing hunger and malnutrition, discrepancies among the policy, funding, and actual results. He pointed out that inadequate early childcare and prenatal interventions are major factors contributing to high stunting rates in the country.

According to the World Health Organization, stunting is impaired growth due to poor nutrition and repeated infections, which can lead to long-term consequences such as poor cognition, low educational performance, and reduced productivity in adulthood.

Cayetano cited statistics from the UNICEF, indicating that 95 children in the Philippines die every day from malnutrition, and 27 out of every 1,000 Filipino children don’t make it past their fifth birthday.

Customs scores anew vs. fuel smuggling syndicate

GOVERNMENT agents have seized another fuel tanker and four lorries at the Port of Batangas while were allegedly being used to transfer P402 million worth of untaxed fuel.

Custom Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio commended his men from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) for the successful operation in cracking down on the illegal transfer of fuel, known as the “paihi” scheme.

Testings showed that the seized fuel did not have proper markings, indicating non-payment of duties and taxes, prompting the Port of Batangas to issue a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against the subject fuel, vessel, and lorries. Rubio emphasized that “the operation was part of the agency’s intensi-

Latest

bomb threat targets

India ight from Germany

BENGALURU, INDIA

—The latest in a string of hoax threats made against Indian airlines targeted a flight from Germany, the airline said Thursday, with the plane landing safely in Mumbai.

More than a dozen fake bomb threats have been made against flights operated by multiple Indian air services this week, prompting government and civil aviation authorities to warn that “very strict action” will be taken.

India’s Vistara airline said Thursday that its passenger jet flying from Frankfurt to Mumbai the day before had received a “security threat” on social media, but landed safely at its planned destination.

“We are fully cooperating with the security agencies to complete the mandatory security checks”, Vistara said in a statement.

India’s aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu said late Wednesday that the police had arrested “a minor responsible for issuing bomb threats” against three flights.

“All others responsible for the disruptions will be identified and duly prosecuted,” Naidu added.

Flights impacted include an Air India plane from New Delhi to Chicago, forced to make an emergency landing in Canada on Tuesday.

On the same day, Singapore scrambled fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane. AFP

fied crackdown against rampant fuel pilferage in the ports,” adding that the seizure resulted from “months of monitoring and the commitment of our officers to their mandate.”

“Our operation against these individuals and groups is not a one-time thing,” he added. CIIS director Verne Enciso, whose team led the operation along with the ESS team, said they have been monitoring the paihi modus for some time.

“When we received the information about the illegal activities, we immediately verified it through our sources and made plans to inspect the port. Our coordination with the local port officers and enforcement units led us to MTKR Cassandra, which we caught in the act of transferring fuel products into the lorries on Tuesday night,” Enciso said. Joel E. Zurbano

The 4Ps program currently supports 4.2 million families, providing at least P750 a month to beneficiaries for the improvement of children and pregnant mothers’ health through check-ups and proper nutrition.

Cayetano emphasized that the DSWD “should monitor not only compliance but also whether the program is truly improving children’s nutrition.”

He stressed the importance of ensuring that children do not go to school hungry, and questioned whether parents have enough knowledge to make nutritious choices with the grants they receive.

The senator cited a statement by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam who underscored the significance of early childhood development, especially in the first two years of life.

“It is crucial to ensure that the funds are truly addressing child stunting and malnutrition, rather than just increasing the funds,” Cayetano said.

By Rio N. Araja

DESPITE the approval of several local ordinances on the use of light electronic vehicles, the Land Transportation Offi ce (LTO) has suspended the registration of e-vehicles to give more time to study their road worthiness.

“Of course at the soonest possible time, we would like to put up guidelines that will govern the usage of light electric vehicles in the event we find it road worthy. If they are roadworthy, that would not be a problem,” LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said.

The LTO issued last March Administrative No. VDM-2024044 mandating the registration of all e- vehicles. However, the LTO said the suspension order would not affect ordinances being implemented by local government units.

But the Metro Manila Council composed of 17 mayors in the region, along with the Metro Manila Development Authority, approved a resolution prohibiting light electric vehicles on national roads and imposing a P2,500 fi ne in the National Capital Region.

“Road safety is paramount. It cannot be that there is no light at the very least. There must also be a helmet so these are the standards that we have to put together,” Mendoza said.

He said there were requests to lower the age requirement for a driver’s license, especially in the provinces suffering from transportation shortage.

WORLD

Israel bombs Syrian coastal city, US strikes Huthis rebels in Yemen

Thai

celebs among 18 nabbed for scam

BANGKOK—Thai police have arrested 18 people, including three celebrities, and seized luxury sports cars and millions of dollars in connection with a pyramid scheme selling health and dietary supplements, officers said Thursday.

The arrests came after more than 1,000 people filed online fraud allegations against The iCon Group, a company they said had lured them into buying products and making financial commitments.

The company’s founder and CEO, Warathaphon “Boss Paul” Waratyaworrakul, was detained on Wednesday along with a top TV host and an actress who had allegedly helped convince victims to join the scheme. Authorities said they had

frozen 125 million baht ($3.8 million) held in the bank accounts of the company’s four executives and confiscated luxury vehicles including Porsches and Ford Mustangs. Police were looking into bank accounts and cash transfers linked to the suspects to find out if any more people were involved, Thailand’s police chief Kitrat Phanphet told reporters. The company allegedly lured its victims by offering cheap online sales courses. Once enrolled, it coerced them into making further purchases and financial commitments ranging from 2,500 baht to 250,000 baht ($7,500) which was used to advertise for new recruits. Some of the victims —who ranged from low-income work-

ers to a high-earning footballer—had paid more than 600,000 baht to the company, according to local media. Police are yet to tally the total amount swindled.

Thailand is no stranger to public fraud cases. A “Forex3D” scheme last year tricked thousands into investing in a fake foreign exchange trading platform. The world’s longest nonlife sentence, according to the “Guinness Book of Records”, was imposed on Thai pyramid scheme fraudster Chamoy Thipyaso, who was jailed for 141,078 years in 1989. However she was released after only eight years behind bars despite having conned some members of the royal household. AFP

JERUSALEM—Israel bombed a Syrian coastal city on Thursday and the United States conducted multiple strikes on targets in Yemen nearly a month into Israel’s war with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Syria, the Huthi rebels in Yemen, Hezbollah and Hamas in Gaza all belong to the so-called axis of resistance led by Iran, which on October 1 conducted a missile strike on Israel.

Israel has vowed to retaliate for the strike, sparking concern around the world that what is already a war on multiple fronts could morph into an all-out regional conflict.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards chief on Thursday warned Tehran would hit Israel “painfully” if it attacks Iranian targets.

“If you make a mistake and attack our targets, whether in the region or in Iran, we will strike you again painfully,” Hossein Salami said in a speech.

Salami was speaking at the funeral of a Guards general who was killed in an Israeli strike on south Beirut last month that also killed Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah.

According to Syrian state media, a rare Israeli strike on the city of Latakia, a stronghold of President Bashar alAssad, wounded two civilians.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britainbased monitor, said the Israeli raid “targeted a weapons depot in Latakia city”.

The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the Latakia bombing when contacted by AFP.

Israel has conducted hun-

dreds of strikes in Syria in recent years, including multiple attacks along the Lebanese border that seek to cut off Hezbollah’s main weapons and equipment supply route from Iran to Lebanon. In Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen, Israel’s main ally the United States conducted multiple B-2 bomber strikes on weapon storage facilities, according to the US military and defence department.

“US forces targeted several of the Huthis’ underground facilities housing various weapons components of types that the Huthis have used to target civilian and military vessels throughout the region,” US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.

The B-2 is a stealth aircraft capable of flying non-stop from the United States, with a payload of 40,000 pounds of bombs, the US Air Force says on its website. That is a far heavier weapons load than on most other modern warplanes.

The United States supports Israel, though it has put its ally under pressure over the civilian toll of the wars in Gaza and Lebanon. Hamas, which rules Gaza, sparked the war with Israel when it attacked on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP

LOST KITTY. A kitten sits on the rubble of a destroyed building in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip. AFP

CAUGHT IN THE ACT. Customs agents seize a tanker and four trucks at the Port of Batangas while allegedly transferring untaxed fuel known in the underground as ‘paihi’ modus operandi.

Jaraula pulls ahead by 3 after chaotic 3rd round

MURCIA, Negros Occidental—Reymon Jaraula delivered a virtuoso performance on moving day in the ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge here on Thursday, turning a highly competitive battle into a showcase of skill, resilience and mental fortitude.

His flawless execution over 18 holes, including a pair of three-birdie streaks on both nines of the Bacolod Golf and Country Club, catapulted him to a commanding three-shot lead over Jhonnel Ababa, solidifying his position at the top of the leaderboard at 14-under 196.

Jaraula’s 63 was nothing short of brilliant, as he separated himself from a field stacked with seasoned veterans and rising stars who struggled to maintain their early momentum. While his competitors faltered under the pressure of the challenging par-70 layout, Jaraula’s steady hand and ability to seize opportunities proved decisive.

“Everything clicked – driving, irons, even putting,” said Jaraula in Filipino. His impeccable performance in hitting all fairways and executing superb iron shots set up numerous birdie opportunities. He capitalized on six of these, with pinpoint precision inside five feet.

Meanwhile, Ababa, hoping to redeem himself after a disappointing final round in Iloilo last week, mounted a respectable fightback with a 66, including a birdie on the closing par-3 hole, to grab solo second at 199, while Hyun Ho Rho fired a 67 for third at 200.

But Jaraula’s brilliance was simply unmatched, leaving the rest of the field playing catch-up entering the final 18 holes of the P2.5 million championship presented by Negros Electric and Power Corp. and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

As erstwhile joint leaders Angelo Que, Aidric Chan and Rico Depilo found themselves falling out of contention with back-nine struggles, Jaraula’s ability to stay consistent and avoid costly mistakes stood out even more. His control over his game and nerves has now set him up for what could be a triumphant finish to the tournament.

Jaraula highlighted his spectacular 32-31 round with a chip-in birdie on the par-4 No. 11, a moment of brilliance that punctuated his bogey-free card. His tenacity was also evident on the par-3 10th, where he scrambled to save par with a clutch six-foot putt.

Uy outlasts Avaricio, pulls off dramatic win

MURCIA, Negros Occidental—

Daniella Uy clinched a riveting two-stroke victory over Chanelle Avaricio in a dramatic final round shootout, showcasing nerves of steel and remarkable resilience to capture the ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge crown with a gutsy 68 here on Thursday.

In what became a gripping showdown, Uy nearly let slip her two-stroke edge with a costly double bogey on the par-4 15th, but she quickly regained her composure, delivering a clutch birdie on the next hole to re-take the lead. She then held firm with steady pars over the last two holes to seal her victory with an eight-under 202 total, securing the top prize of P117,000.

Avaricio, who needed a birdie on the final hole to force a playoff, faltered with a three-putt miscue for bogey, carding a 70 to finish two shots behind at 204, earning P82,000.

“It was a roller-coaster round,” said Uy, reflecting on her performance. “I bogeyed the first but bounced back with birdies. I also had several missed birdie chances, but I stayed focused.”

Despite the pressure, Uy said the excitement of the close battle kept her motivated. “There was pressure, but it felt more like excitement since it was such a tight match. It gave me confidence to hit the pin and sink those birdies.”

This win marked Uy’s fifth career title, a follow-up to her breakthrough victory in 2021 and a trio of triumphs last year, matching Avaricio’s three-leg win in 2022 before both embarked on international campaigns.

Princess Superal stormed back with a solid 67 to claim third place at 208, taking home P65,000, while Velinda Castil and Jiwon Lee tied for fourth at 213. Castil shot a 72, while Lee struggled with a 74 in the penultimate leg of the 10-stage Ladies Philippine Golf Tour presented by Negros Electric and Power Corp.

Sarah Ababa, fresh off her win in Iloilo, stayed within striking distance despite a shaky front nine, but a triple bogey on the par-3 10th derailed her campaign. She ended tied for sixth at 214 with Chihiro Ikeda and Florence Bisera, who shot 70 and 73, respectively.

BGCC Finance Manager Cara Golez made waves by claiming low amateur honors with a 229 after a 77, finishing 19th overall.

The head-to-head duel between Uy and Avaricio captivated the tournament, producing one of the most intense finishes ever seen on the Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.organized tour. Both players displayed exceptional shotmaking and mental toughness as they traded blows from tee to green, with each swing intensifying the pressure in a grueling battle for supremacy.

The decisive moment came on the 16th hole, where Uy sank a crucial birdie putt to regain the lead after her earlier misstep on the 15th. Avaricio couldn’t answer back, and despite her best efforts, her bogey on the final hole cemented Uy’s triumph.

Benilde faces SSC, eyes last Super League playoff berth

COLLEGE of Saint Benilde aims to clinch the last playoffs seat in Pool D in a crucial match against San Sebastian College-Recoletos in the 2024 Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Championship Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum. The Lady Blazers and Lady Stags cross paths in the curtain-raiser at 11:30 a.m. of a packed four-game playdate to close the elimination round.

Saint Benilde shocked fancied Adamson University in straight sets, 25-13, 25-22, 25-19, last Wednesday for a 1-1 win-loss record in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, GCash, Chery Tiggo, F2 Logistics, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, R and B Milk Tea and Summit Water. The win put the three-time NCAA champion in a good position to claim the last ticket to the next round to join pool leader Far Eastern University. “Lalaban and lalaro lang kami. Sabi ng ani coach (Jerry Yee) stick lang sa plano,” said Lady Blazers prized winger Mary Grace Borromeo. Borromeo, who came from the Adamson program, unleashed a barrage of hits including seven in the third set to finish with 10 points in a statement win over her former team.

Aside from Borromeo, Yee will also pin his hopes on Rhea Densing, Wielyn Estoque, Zamantha Nolasco and veteran winger Mycah Go to bring down SSCR, which is winless in two starts. Pressure is on the Lady Blazers’ side as a loss will force a three-way tie at 1-2 slates, which will hand the Lady Falcons the last seat to the next phase holding a superior tiebreak. Meanwhile, also-ran Mapua University (0-3) and University of Perpetual Help System Dalta (0-3) square off at 1 p.m. in Pool B of the competition, which has Smart Sports, PLDT Fibr, Mikasa, Asics, Rebel Sports, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and SM Tickets as technical partners.

MILO celebrates PH sports with ‘Gathering of Champions’

MILO® held its Gathering of Champions last October 11, an initiative bringing together over 60 sports partners, clinics, and institutions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao who are one in the cause in rallying the nation through sports.

MILO®, being at the forefront of uplifting Filipino families to be more active and supporting grassroots athletes, mounted the Gathering of Champions as a way to give thanks and recognize the various milestones of its many sports partners as it ushered in its 60th anniversary in 2024.

Sports partners such as the Department of Education (DepEd), the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and the Philippine Olympic Commission (POC) were present at the event and touched on their milestones in further

The start of a winning streak

THEY say that a win won’t right things in an instant. This may be true in most things, but for one night in Thailand, a win is everything for a national football team desperate to break a 10-game winless streak. Playing just its second game under new coach Albert Capellas, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team ended a 13-month win drought after beating Tajikistan, 3-0, in the 50th King’s Cup at the Tinsulanon Stadium in Songkhla Province, Thailand. The win gave the team the bronze medal in the tournament and a payback against Tajikistan, which beat them in the Merdeka Cup a

few weeks back. The team, formerly known as the original Azkals, last won a game against Afghanistan, a 2-1 victory last September 2023. After which the nightmare began. A string of seven losses against Iraq (twice), Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Tajikistan and Thailand.

The team drew with Indonesia, 1-1, last November 21, 2023. They lost their opening game against Thailand, 3-1, in the King’s Cup. The Pinoy squad held its own against the vaunted War Elephants for the first 20 minutes of the game until the deluge, literally happened. Even the best coach in the world would find it difficult to do something against a floating pitch after the heavy rains.

The team’s almost perfect start, literally, was drowned in the drains. But then again, as someone commented after the match, we should end finding reasons why our team lost again. Point

paving the way for sports inclusivity and accessibility in the country.

“We believe in the dedication of our current icons, whose impact uplifts aspirations of those still at the grass-

taken, so we will not go there anymore.

Despite the big loss, Bjorn Kristensen provided a glimpse at the future for netting the country’s lone goal. The team also showed that it has the promise of winning big games in the future.

Then came the game against Tajikistan. With no flooded pitch to worry about, it was the Philippines’ turn to make it rain, with goals, of course.

Gerrit Holtmann scored the first goal with a screamer at the 47th minute to open the scoring parade in the final period after a scoreless 0-0 score in the opening half. Jeff Tabinas followed it up with a header in the 58th minute, before Zico Bailey opened his account with the national team with a strike, completing the scoring barrage for the Philippines in the 62nd minute. It was the first win of the national team under the PFF administration. It was also the first win for new coach Albert Capellas in just two games. A feat that his two previous predecessors failed to achieve, that is to win a game for the country.

But more than ending a string of losses and bad runs, on a good night with the current crop of players that are on the squad right now, the Philippines can

roots level. I would like to extend my gratitude to MILO® Philippines, for being one of our partners in promoting physical wellness and health. Let us work even harder to build more

go toe-to-toe with anyone. It is expected to boost team manager Freddy Gonzalez’s recruitment of other Filipino standouts playing overseas to come home for flag and country. Holtmann was worth the hype and wait. He brings world-class quality to the squad. Just imagine if he could have played more games for us after his stint in Mongolia. Kirstensen gives the team the extra offense that we lacked in the past. Jeff and Paul Tabinas are both amazing workhorses on the pitch. We can’t also question their passion to play for the national team. The other members of the team also made their contributions. Nick and Anthony Markanich are not yet on the team. If the team could play more tuneup games before the Mitsubishi Electric Cup in late November, then the problems of unfamiliarity with each other could be addressed ahead of the tournament that really matters.

We have a good team and with many more prospects being invited to don the national colors, the team could only improve further. We indeed have so much to hope for. The win against Tajikistan could be the start of a win streak that

victories and discover new grassroots talents who will become our future flag-bearers. Happy 60th anniversary to MILO® Philippines,” said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann.

All partners were presented with a trophy paying homage to their contributions to Philippine sports, all of whom contributed to the over 2 million Filipinos engaged throughout various disciplines, from taekwondo, sepak takraw, and basketball, to football, swimming, and more. Overall, the event sought not only the many achievements each champion reached in 2024 but also everyone’s shared efforts in championing both the goal of MILO® and theirs – to improve sports accessibility and inclusivity.

our team is really capable of and much deserving to do so.

In another good turn of events, the Philippine Azkals finished second in the Asia 7s Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Azkals suffered their only loss in the tournament, a 2-1 defeat to defending champion Japan in the finals at the EV Arena Elmina in Shah Alam. The Azkals practically annihilated their opponents on their route to the finals. Except for a close and heated 4-3 win against host Malaysia, the Azkals, bannered by former national team mainstays and local football icons Misagh Bahadoran, Stephan Schrock, Mark Hartmann and Daisue Sato with Hamed Hajimahdi calling the shots, posted lopsided wins against Hong Kong (twice) and India. Here is hoping that the Azkals’ good run in the Asia 7s Championship will spark and renew interest in the 7 a-side version of the sport in the country. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

Daniella Uy displays her ICTSI Bacolod Golf Challenge championship trophy. Manny Marcelo

Reymon Jaraula Manny Marcelo

The Designated Kit Man

Erel Cabatbat

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

PH obstacle athletes finish 1-2 in KL meet

By Randy Caluag

ATHLETES from the Philippine Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF) made impressive waves in the international stage with standout performances in recent competitions in Malaysia and Japan.

National athletes Sandi Abahan and Tess Nocyao achieved an impressive 1-2 finish in the Super 10km category at the Spartan Race KL Honor Trifecta Weekend, showcasing their dominance in the field. Meanwhile, national youth athletes Gavin Moses Ti and Trisha Mae Del Rosario delivered exception-

al performances at the OCR100m Japan Obstacle Championships, emerging as the fastest male and female finishers, respectively.

Their wins were even more remarkable as they outpaced older competitors, proving the depth of young talent in the Philippines’ obstacle racing scene.

The junior athletes were accompanied by coaches Mark Julius, Mhik Tejares, Kevin Dador Pascua, and Jayr Miranda de Castro, who commended their athletes for exceeding expectations in the tough international competition.

In another international showing, Filipino athletes Mecca Cortizano and Ahgie Radan participated in the Spartan OCR 100m World Championships in Croatia.

While they didn’t bring home medals, they gave commendable performances, representing the country with pride.

Back home, the POSF is making significant strides

to further develop and promote the sport.

For the first time, the federation will open its doors to masters’ athletes by hosting the inaugural Tandang Pinoy Obstacle Course Race on November 9 at the Bridgetown Obstacle Park in Pasig City.

This event will feature a short obstacle course for athletes aged 40 and above, with categories for those in their 40s and 50+ age groups.

In addition, POSF is spearheading inclusivity in the sport by launching a program for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

A community workout for PWDs is set for November 23 at the same venue, allowing everyone a chance to experience the thrill of obstacle racing.

Looking ahead, POSF is also preparing for the first-ever Batang Pinoy Obstacle Sports Competition, scheduled on November 24 and 25. This event will introduce the sport to young athletes, further expanding obstacle sports’ reach in the country.

Asian MMA chief lauds inaugural Manila Open

THE head of the Asian federation for mixed martial arts (MMA) gave an imprimatur of approval to the country’s successful hosting of the Manila Open—the inaugural Asian MMA championships that wound up on Wednesday night at Mariott Manila in Pasay City.

“Is it through your commitment that we’re able to deliver such a remarkable successful event,” Asian MMA Association (AMMA) president Gordon Tang told Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino during the thanksgiving dinner for the three-day event that featured the best amateur MMA fighters in Asia.

“I would like to congratulate all the athletes, coaches, referees and hardworking staff as we are excited about the ongoing development of MMA in Asia and beyond,” added Tang, also vice president of the Olympic Council of Asia as he expressed gratitude to the 9 Dynasty Group for hosting the event.

“We offer our heartfelt thanks to NMMAPP (Nasyonal MMA Pedera-

ng

president Abraham

and secretary- general Alvin

and to the 9 Dynasty Group for the unwavering support,” added the

business magnate Tang, who also heads the Cambodia sailing association.

Tolentino heads the newly-formed NMMAPP, which carries the moniker

Amit leads PSA’s top September achievers

LADY cuemaster Rubilen Amit and boxing champ Melvin Jerusalem carried the banner in a September to remember for Filipino sportsmen and women.

Further cementing her status as queen of billiards, Amit captured the WPA World Women’s 9-Ball Championship with a gutsy 1-4, 4-2, 4-2, 4-3, over Chinese Chen Siming, 1-4, 4-2, 4-2, 4-3, in Hamilton, New Zealand.

Jerusalem dominated previously unbeaten Mexican challenger Luis Castillo to win by unanimous decision and retain the WBC minimumweight belt in front of home supporters in Mandaluyong.

In giving the country two world titles in a four-week period, Amit, a two-time world 10-ball titlist, and Jerusalem, one of only two current Filipino world boxing champs, earned raves as the Philippine Sportswriters Association’s top achievers for September.

The duo’s feats were complemented by shining performances in various fronts.

There’s Carlo Biado, another pool great, who reigned supreme in the Ho Chi Minh 9-Ball Open in Vietnam, as well as Johann Chua, who ruled the Zen&Yuan8 9-Ball tournament in Shanghai, China. Add in weightlifters Angeline Colonia (women’s 45kg) and Lovely Inan, future Hidilyn Diazes who snared two gold medals and a silver each in the IWF World Junior Championships in Leon, Spain.

Pilipinas MMA, the governing body for amateur MMA sport in the country.

“We are very thankful to our Asian counterparts, especially Mr. Gordon Tang, for supporting the new amateur MMA sport and for bringing the event here in Manila,” Tolentino said. “There are some fine-tuning to do on rules on safety but sooner than soon, guarantees will be in place.”

“It’s a first of many and we’re excited for the next one,” Aguilar said. “The AMMA, Mr. Gordon Tang and the other countries are extremely happy on our hosting.”

Tolentino and Aguilar thanked Derries Wong and his 9 Dynasty Group for supporting the Manila Open.

Tajikistan emerged as the inaugural overall champion of the Asian championships with four gold and two silver medals, followed by Kazakhstan with a 3-2-1 gold-silver-bronze harvest and China with 2-1-0.

A big field of 88 MMA athletes from 13 counties competed in the Manila Open.

Bolts’ rally falls short against Golden Kings

MERALCO paid dearly for allowing Ryukyu to go on a second quarter scoring spree that proved to be key in a 77-74 loss

Wednesday night on the road in the East Asia Super League Season 2.

The Golden Kings, runner-up in the B. League last year, scored 28 points during that stretch on the three-point shooting of Yoshiya Uematsu, Masahiro Waki, Yoshiyuki Matsuwaki, and Ryuichi Kishimoto, and the inside presence of import Victor Law and naturalized player Alex Kirk.

The show of force shoved the Japanese side to a 51-35 lead, a good enough cushion to hold off a late charge by the Bolts and gave the home team their first season win at the Okinawa Arena. Law, the former Orlando Magic, came through with a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, fellow import Jack Cooley also had 18 and seven boards, while Kirk added 12 to deal the Bolts their first loss.

Uematsu and Matsuwaki each had nine points and banked in a three pointer each along with Wakiand Kishimoto during that second quarter breakaway.

DJ Kennedy fired 30 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for Meralco, a 97-85 winner over new team Macau Blackbears in the season opener last Oct. 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Chris Newsome added 18 along with import Allen Durham, although the Bolts badly missed the absence of veteran forward Cliff Hodge together with injured players Allein Maliksi and CJ Cansino.

Hodge stayed in Manila to be his wife after giving birth to their first born baby.

The 36-year-old Durham, playing for the first time against his former team, teamed up with Kennedy and Bong Quinto in an 8-0 run to rally back from an 11-point deficit and threaten at 77-74 with 20 seconds remaining.

MAPUA tries to cling on to No. 2 as it tangles with a slumping Letran even as San Beda aims to stay at No. 3 as it clashes with University of Perpetual Help today in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcOil Arena.

The Cardinals have kept their lofty perch at second following an 82-79 squeaker over the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals Tuesday and should close in on the pace-setting St. Benilde Blazers (9-2) with a win over the Knights in their 2:30 p.m. encounter.

Reigning MVP Clint Escamis was at his usual best and fired a match-best 23 points while Marc Cuenco scattered 16 points including that crucial threepointer late that sealed the deal.

“Sila naman talaga inaasahan sa team,” said Mapua coach Randy Alcantara referring to his dynamic, high scoring Escamis-Cuenco duo. While Mapua is battling to stay in the top two, Letran is on a slippery slope and trying to cling on to its precarious place inside the magic four that they currently share with the Lyceum of the Philippines U Pirates with a 6-5 mark apiece.

Expect an epic duel between teams being tipped to make it to the Final Four.

Interestingly, Mapua will play minus starting center Marc Igliane while Letran will be without its primary attacker Jimboy Estrada, who were both suspended for a game for their unsportsmanlike behavior the last time out.

“Gusto sana

National athletes Sandi Abahan (center) and Tess Nocyao (left) raise their trophies at the podium.

Durham ghts for the looseball

POC president Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino (left) with Asian Mixed Martial Arts Association head Gordon Tang during the thanksgiving dinner for the Manila Open Wednesday night at Marriott Manila.

Rubilen Amit

syon

Pilipinas)

Tolentino

Aguilar

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Alternergy forms landholding unit

NFA gets P9-b budget to procure palay

BPI’s nine-month income surged 24% to record P48b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI), the financial arm of Ayala Corp., said Thursday it booked a record net income of P48 billion in the first nine months of 2024, marking a 24.3-percent increase from last year.

BPI said in a stock exchange filing significant revenue growth and improved operating efficiency drove its nine-month performance.

The bank reported a return on equity of 15.9 percent and a return on assets of 2.1 percent. Earnings per share reached P9.10, up 16.5 percent from last year’s P7.81, despite the additional shares issued during the BPI and Robinsons Bank merger.

Total revenues reached P125.8 billion from January to September, up by 24.7 percent year-on-year, supported by a 22.2-percent rise in

net interest income to P93.8 billion.

Average loans expanded 18.9 percent, and the net interest margin increased 22 basis points to 4.29 percent. Non-interest income also rose 32.4 percent to P31.9 billion, led by securities trading gains of P3 billion and a 28-percent rise in fee income to P26.4 billion on higher service charges, credit card fees and bancassurance income.

Operating expenses amounted to P59.4 billion, up 22.1 percent, on higher costs for manpower, transaction processing and technology.

Provisions for loan losses increased 60 percent to P4.8 billion. The nonperforming loan (NPL) ratio rose slightly to 2.3 percent, with an adequate NPL coverage of 111.17 percent.

Third-quarter income also reached a high of P17.4 billion, a 29.4 percent increase year-on-year as revenue for grew 26.3 percent to P44.6 billion.

Gross loans reached P2.1 trillion, up 18.9 percent year-on-year, with notable growth in all portfolios, including personal loans, which surged 103.3 percent.

Total deposits reached P2.5 trillion, a 14.5-percent increase from a year ago, with a CASA ratio of 63 percent and a loan-to-deposit ratio of 85.9 percent.

S&P Global Ratings, in September, reaffirmed BPI’s BBB+ rating with a stable outlook, matching the Philippine sovereign credit rating.

Australia, PH to pursue P20b worth of projects

By Othel V. Campos

AUSTRALIA and the Philippines launched Thursday the Development Partnership Plan (DPP) 2024 to 2029 which is expected to fund P20 billion worth of developmental projects over the next five years.

Australian Ambassador to the Philippines H.K. Yu said the Australian government is allocating P4 billion yearly to support the targets under the plan.

“That will be P4 billion yearly, of which P3.6 billion is the form of overseas development assistance (ODA) fund, but a part of that is already spoken for. We have continuing projects that were initiated before the DPP was finalized,” she said in a briefing.

She said Australia is committed to crafting new programs under the plan and continue existing programs. The DPP seeks to strengthen Australia-Philippines cooperation by investing in inclusive programs aligned with the Philippines’ development priorities. It will cover areas such as civil maritime cooperation, cyber security, justice and human rights, economic reforms, peace stability, food and agriculture stability, women’s economic participation, climate change adaptation and mitigation, among others.

Chamber of Mines calls for industry reforms to attract investors

THE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) called for reforms to address key challenges hindering the country’s progress in value-added mineral processing.

COMP chairman Michael Toledo, speaking during the “Digging Deeper: A Mining Policy Forum” in Mandaluyong City, said these challenges drove away mining investors and should be resolved to achieve the shared goal of the Marcos administration and the mining sector.

Toledo identified four primary challenges including long-term policy consistency, lengthy and complex approval processes, business continuity risks from local government units (LGUs) and communities and tax uncertainties.

“First, we must ensure long-term policy consistency by drafting a robust mining policy that clarifies the roles of national and local governments and specifies the approach to Indigenous community management,” Toledo said.

To streamline and expedite approval

processes for mineral agreements, Toledo proposed simplifying application steps, eliminating redundancies and implementing clear-cut timelines in coordination with relevant government agencies. He also recommended establishing an online register of pending applications.

Addressing business continuity risks from local ordinances, Toledo suggested clarifying the status of mining companies as government contractors and exporters, rationalizing LGU powers to issue mining prohibi-

TRUE Value stores in the Philippines remain open and are committed to serving customers despite the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by True Value Company L.L.C. in the United States. Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI) said in a statement True Thursday Value Philippines is independently owned and operated by its subsidiary Robinsons True Serve Hardware Philippines Inc. (RTSHI). “It is still business as usual for all True Value stores in the Philippines. All stores remain open and ready to serve our shoppers with the same commitment to quality that has made True Value Philippines a trusted name in home improvement,” RRHI said. True Value Company, founded in 1948 and headquartered in Chicago, began as a hardware cooperative before transitioning into a hardware wholesaler in 2018. The company, which operates a global network of 4,500 independently-owned True Value stores, filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware on Oct. 14, 2024. This move came as part of a strategic plan to sell substantially all of its business to Do it Best Corp. based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. “The sale agreement between the True Value Company and Do it Best is a welcome development with the potential to unlock new synergies,” said Theodore Sogono, Robinsons Retail DIY Segment Group general manager. Jenniffer B. Austria

tions and empowering the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to identify and fix inconsistencies between national laws and local ordinances. Toledo stressed the need to address uncertainties in tax policy and investment incentives by establishing a stable mining fiscal regime, including a financial stability clause in mineral agreements and appointing a senior government official dedicated to promoting mining investments.

Othel V. Campos

Coin deposit machines collect more than P1b

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said its coin deposit machines (CoDMs) collected over P1 billion since they were launched in June 2023.

It said the total coin collection reached P1,008,889,490.24 as of Oct. 11, 2024.

The BSP said to further expand the project’s reach, it would install 25 more machines nationwide in 2025.

“This will make it more convenient for Filipinos to deposit their idle coins, helping recirculate them back into the economy while promoting cashless transactions,” the BSP said.

“By increasing accessibility, the BSP aims to reach more communities and ensure that the benefits of the CoDM initiative are widely felt across all regions,” it said. The machines accumulated more than 260 million pieces of coins and facilitated more than 240,000 transactions. Through the CoDMs, people can place legal tender coins in the machines, with the total value credited to e-wallet accounts in GCash or Maya, GoTyme bank accounts or converted into shopping vouchers. The BSP asked customers that coins should not be taped or bundled and should not come with other objects like buttons, magnets, nails, tokens, screws or washers. They should be gently placed in the coin slot in handfuls.

PH stocks decline amid gradual easing of interest rates

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks declined for second straight day amid the gradual easing of interest rates.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index stayed above the 7,400 level despite losing 36.67 points, or 0.49 percent, Thursday.

The broader all-shares index also ended lower by 21.32 points, or 0.52 percent, to 4,076.24.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

chief economist Michael Ricafort said investors digested the more gradual or measured monetary easing/rate cut signals from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

The Monetary Board of the BSP reduced its policy rates by 25 basis points Wednesday amid an improving inflation outlook.

The Monetary Board said it would maintain a measured approach in its easing cycle to ensure price stability conducive to sustainable economic growth and employment.

Ricafort said investors were also evaluating US presidential candidate Donald Trump’s tariff plans, if he wins. Analysts said adding to the market’s concern is the lingering weakness of the local currency. The peso closed at 57.80 against the US dollar Thursday.

Net value turnover at the stock market reached P5.3 billion. Foreign investors were net sellers for the day, with net foreign outflows amounting to P47.87 million.

Banks were the only gainers for the day, rising 0.38 percent. Holding firms registered the most losses, declining 1.17 percent.

Losers edged gainers 102 to 92. Century Pacific Food Inc. was the top index gainer, advancing by 3.69 percent to P42.20, while Nickel Asia Corp. was the main index laggard, dropping 4.63 percent to P3.50 each.

Meanwhile, stocks in Shanghai and Hong Kong slipped on a mixed day for Asian markets Thursday as Chinese traders shrugged at Beijing’s latest plan to boost the country’s troubled property sector, which came up short of expectations. With AFP

Caloocan pipe replacement completed

Alternergy establishes landholding company

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE board Alternergy Holdings Corp. approved the consolidation of all its land holdings with the acquisition of the newlyestablished Triple Play Land Corp. (3PLCo).

Alternergy said Thursday its board envisions 3PLCo as a means to consolidate ownership of land used as project sites for the company’s various renewable energy projects, whether wind, solar or run-of-river hydro. “3PLCo eventually can be

used as a platform by ALTER to transform it into a future REIT ([real estate investment trusts] play to raise additional capital for the group,” said Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua.

“3PLCo will be unique due to its diverse holdings of complementary renewable power assets,” he said.

Magbanua said 3PLCo could become Altenergy’s REIT company “eventually, but not in the immediate future.”

Alternergy aims to develop up to 500 megawatts of additional wind, solar and run of river hydro projects in the next two years.

Alternergy completed its acquisition of the issued and outstanding capital stock of Alternergy Solar Holdings Corp.,

becoming its 100-percent owner. Alternergy said the move is part of the ongoing restructuring of the company to organize its renewable energy technologies into separate intermediate holding companies.

ASHC will hold Alternergy’s solar energy portfolio similar to the existing Alternergy Wind Holdings Corp. (AWHC) for wind and Alternergy Mini Hydro Holdings Corp. (AMHHC) for hydro.

The company said the creation of ASHC and Alternergy’s 100-percent ownership are expected to bring about a more vitalized solar energy portfolio. It is also seen to result in perational efficiency and open new markets and access to larger capital resources.

By Othel V. Campos

MAYNILAD Water Services

Inc. said Thursday it completed the P191-million pipe replacement project in Caloocan City, enhancing water reliability for thousands of residents.

The project involved replacing 19.69 kilometers of old and undersized pipes in Barangay Bagong Silang, which had been causing low water pressure due to leaks.

The new, larger-diameter pipes will improve water flow and meet the increasing demand from the city’s growing population.

“This project is a crucial step in ensuring that our infrastructure can keep pace with the growing demand of the city’s expanding population. By upgrading these old pipes, we are not only reducing water losses but also improving to deliver more reliable water service to our customers,” said Maynilad president and chief executive Ramoncito Fernandez.

The new pipelines will boost water pressure in the area from below 7 psi (pounds per square inch) to as high as 16 psi for around 38,000 customers, once fully commissioned this month.

At 16 psi, water supply can reach the third story of a structure without the aid of a booster pump.

The pipe replacement project also enabled Maynilad to recover around 5 million liters per day of potable water that had previously been lost through leaks in the aging distribution system.

The water volume recovery translates into an additional water supply for some 33,500 individuals.

Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI), Laguna Lake Development

Maynilad allocated P4 billion in 2024 for various pipe replacement projects in Caloocan, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Manila, Makati, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa and Imus.

Maynilad is the largest private water concessionaire of Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) in the Philippines in terms of customer base.

PEPSI-COLA Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI)—the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of PepsiCo beverages in the country—signed a memorandum of agreement with the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the local government of Sto. Tomas, Batangas for the Adopt-A-River Program as part of the company’s long-term environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. Under the partnership, PCPPI’s Southern Tagalog Region Operations (STRO) team will reinforce community engagement and sanitation efforts to keep the Dipangla Creek clean and free of obstructions.

The 300-meter stretch is located in Barangay San Miguel beside the STRO plant in Sto. Tomas.

“The partnership to protect the Dipangla Creek through the Adopt-A-River Program is an essential part of our commitment to promote responsible water stewardship across our operations. This is aligned with our goal to create a positive impact on society with programs focused on responsible and ethical operations, employee and community empowerment, and environmental sustainability,” said PCPPI chief environmental, social and governance officer Carina Bayon.

PCPPI said it would ensure the weekly deployment of team members to conduct the collection of solid wastes, maintenance, and upkeep of the project area. It will also monitor the execution of weekly cleaning, overgrown vegetation cutting, and collection of accumulated residual and non-residual garbage along the river stream.

Pepsi-Cola

Authority (LLDA) and the local government of Sto. Tomas, Batangas sign a memorandum of agreement for the Adopt-A-River Program as part of the company’s long-term environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. Signing the agreement are (from left) Sto. Tomas City Mayor Arth Jhun Marasigan, PCPPI chief environmental, social and governance officer Carina Bayon and City Environment and Natural Resources Office head Eric Velasco.

NET ZERO. Airports Council International secretary -general Stefano Baronci (left) and Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC chief executive Athanasios Titonis sign a memorandum of understanding to run a pilot to assist Mactan Cebu International Airport establish a Net Zero Roadmap. They are joined by Juan Carlos Salazar, secretarygeneral of International Civil Aviation Organization; Julius Neri, general manager of Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority; and Salvatore Ciacchitano, president of International Civil Aviation Organization. The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation, Asia and Pacific Region.

BUSINESS

NFA secures P9-b funding for palay procurement in Q4

By Othel V. Campos

T

HE National Food Authority (NFA) said Thursday it secured the remaining P9-billion budget for 2024 palay procurement.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel Jr., who is also the concurrent NFA Council chairman, said the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) would release the funds in equal installments over the final three months of the year.

“The NFA will have enough funds

Global policymakers meet in Manila for investment forum

THE Board of Investments (BOI) and the International Institute for Sustainability Development (IISD) gathered investment negotiators, policymakers and international organizations to exchange innovative ideas toward a sustainable and resilient economy during the 16th Investment Policy Forum (IPF) on Oct. 16, 2024.

Trade Undersecretary and BOI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo underscored the importance of the IPF to come up with innovative approaches and collaborative solutions towards genuine sustainable development based on the collaboration of delegates from international organizations and different countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Carribean and Europe.

“Sustainability in all its dimensions has highlighted the critical role of developing certain strategic and oftentimes emerging sectors, and it is in these sectors wherein the intersection of technology, access to markets, and natural resources or endowments has been all the more important,” he said.

Rodolfo said IPF is a vital platform to highlight the shared commitment to enhance the investment environment and foster inclusive economic growth.

He recognized the IISD’s Model International Agreement on investment for sustainable development, which is a useful tool for the government and stakeholders in negotiations.

Nathalie Bernasconi-Osterwalder, IISD Europe vice-president for global strategies and managing director told the attendees that the IPF aims to come up with horizontal coherence and coordinated action to align sustainable investments with other fields such as tax, human rights and climate change.

“We will not just exchange ideas on abstract concepts, but we will get into technical details and identify concrete solutions,” she said.

She said that for this to be effective, it is important for the delegates of the forum to coordinate and avoid overlapping and fragmentation.

“Through our collective efforts, we can develop tools, policies, and reforms necessary to create a sustainable future. Let us take the inspiration from the resilience of the host country, the Philippines,” she said, emphasizing the country’s adaptability to overcome challenges.

to support rice farmers through the wet season, which is critical for their livelihoods during this challenging period,” he said.

NFA administrator Larry Lacson said the timely release of the budget would enable the agency to purchase 7.2 million 50-kilo bags of palay at a

price of P25 per kilogram.

“This volume aligns well with the NFA’s wet season palay procurement target of 6.4 million to 8.7 million bags,” he said, indicating NFA’s commitment to meeting its procurement goals.

To balance farmer support with consumer needs, the NFA recently adjusted its buying price range for palay from P25 to P27 per kg., reflecting declining global rice prices.

Tiu Laurel assured farmers that they would still see a favorable return on their efforts despite the lower buying price.

The NFA Council raised the buying price of palay in June to P17 to P30 per kg., up from last year’s P16 to P23 per kg. The council said the price adjustment was essential for helping the NFA compete with private traders and bolster the country’s rice buffer stock. Lacson said the NFA’s recent decision to increase the selling price to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other government agencies to P38 per kg., along with projected savings from the purchase of palay contained in farmers’ sacks, could lead to additional funds for palay procurement.

Trade Undersecretary and Board of Investments (BOI) managing head Ceferino Rodolfo encourages delegates of the 16th Investment Policy Forum (IPF) on Oct. 16, 2024 to revisit old ideas and incorporate them in the discussion to realize sustainable investment governance in the Philippines. The BOI and the International Institute for Sustainability Development (IISD) gathered investment negotiators, policymakers and international organizations to exchange innovative ideas toward a sustainable and resilient economy during the forum.

MGB launches digital process for mining applications

THE Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), an attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), launched a digital application process in three regions as part of its commitment to streamline the mining permit approval process and reduce the processing time for mining companies.

DENR Undersecretary for integrated sciences Carlos Primo David announced in a mining forum organized by the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) that the DENR would cut the processing time for mining applications from seven years to just two years.

“When you start to evaluate applications, there are always technical and legal aspects, and it depends on the person evaluating that. We want to track where these applications are getting stalled,” he said.

The digital application process was rolled out in mining regions, including CARAGA and Davao. David said the system not only streamlines the process but also eliminates the potential for irregularities.

He said the DENR is implementing a parallel processing system, which means that applications would be processed even if other required permits from local government units (LGUs) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) are still pending.

Othel

V. Campos

Jollibee Food Group explores sourcing rice directly from farmers

CEBU CITY— The Jollibee Food Group (JFG) is exploring a potential partnership to source rice directly from Filipino farmers for its stores.

The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) said the fast-food giant is in the initial stages of discussions with farmer cooperatives. “We’re considering this with Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative, a long-standing partner,” said JGF senior manager Ma. Laize Ar Cruzat. “We’re confident in their ability to supply quality rice.”

SERVICE EXTENSION.

With its completion by December 2024, Manila Water Company Inc.’s mainline extension project at Sitio Tanza and Tolosa Ville in Rizal is expected to initially benefit 1,405 new domestic service connections, which will gradually increase to 4,000 households covering 24,000 residents as improvements in its systems are put in place. The expansion involves the installation of a 280-millimeter (mm) high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe spanning 2.73 kilometers as well as a 100-mm HDPE pipe stretching 2.99 km. These will be interconnected to the 1600- mm steel pipe along Marcos Highway in Antipolo.

More than 100 JFC stores in Cebu require thousands of kilograms of rice annually. Supplying the group’s Jollibee and Chowking stores alone could reach tens of millions of kilograms.

JGF program director Jan Paolo Vicente said JFG stores currently source rice from local millers. He said that JFG and JGF are evaluating several factors before directly sourcing from small-holder farmers, including quality, adherence to good farming prac-

BIR orders nationwide raids of illicit vape retailers

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue

(BIR) ordered its revenue offices to conduct nationwide raids against illicit vape retailers and resellers.

BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. directed revenue regions and revenue district offices to monitor and raid all establishments with illicit vape products.

The BIR held a simultaneous and nationwide raid against retailers and resellers on Oct. 16, 2024. The agency said it was targeting retailers/ resellers because they are enablers of vape smugglers.

It said that if resellers would not patronize vape smugglers, the latter would have no choice but to comply with BIR regulations.

“The illicit vape industry has been

repeatedly warned to comply with BIR regulations. Despite multiple chances, they refuse to follow the law. The BIR will proceed with the full deployment of enforcement activities against illicit vape retailers and resellers. Expect regular raids. Expect criminal cases,” Lumagui said.

The BIR encouraged all informants, whether from the public and private sector, to report establishments that are involved in illicit vape to the BIR. Lumagui said common violations include failure to affix BIR tax stamps, register as a manufacturer/ importer, register the vape product itself and follow the minimum floor price.

“Resellers of illicit vape will be raided. They are the enablers of vape smugglers. If there are no resellers, there will be no smugglers. The smugglers will be forced to comply with BIR regulations” Lumagui said.

Lumagui led several battles in the BIR’s war against illicit vape, one of which was the Sunday raid of the Philippine Vape Festival 2024 on Aug. 18, 2024, which went viral online.

The BIR also raided the Taytay Tiangge Market because of the presence of Flava and other illicit vapes.

The BIR also raided a building in Quezon City in July 2024 where a Flava vending machine was confiscated.

tices and pesticide residue analysis (PRA).

JFG and JGF prefer to sign rice supply agreements with cooperatives and non-government organizations registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or accredited by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Lamac Cooperative plans to supply at least 20 percent of JFG’s rice requirement starting 2025. The cooperative formed a farming cluster

in Bohol and expects to import rice from there.

The cooperative received a P11million grant from the national government for a rice warehouse, rice mill and hauling trucks.

As one of the oldest and largest farm groups, Lamac teamed up with JFG to deliver fresh produce to Jollibee and Chowking stores under the foundation’s Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP).

Othel

V. Campos

Villar pushes measures against online piracy

SENATOR Mark Villar is pushing for stronger measures to combat IP piracy, noting that the majority of these illegal activities now occur online.

Villar, in a budget hearing for the Optical Media Board (OMB) Tuesday, emphasized the need to address the evolving nature of piracy and crack down on online pirates. The OMB currently only has jurisdiction over physical piracy and lacks authority over online content.

The Philippines also does not have a legal mandate to block websites with pirated content. The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and internet service providers are working together on temporary measures to block such sites.

To address this issue, Villar filed Senate Bills 2150 and 2385, which aim to amend the Intellectual Property Code and expand its definition of pirated goods to include electronic and online content. Villar said the passage

of these bills would effectively address online piracy.

The Philippines lost about $700 million in 2022 due to the piracy of Filipino-made TV shows and movies, according to a YouGov survey. The country was identified as one of the top consumers of pirated content in Asia.

IPOPHL director-general Rowel Barba warned that the Philippines could face revenue leakage of around $1 billion by 2027 if online piracy continues unabated.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) estimates that piracy costs the country 7.1 percent of its gross domestic product. This results in lost revenue, job losses and increased risks of malware infection on devices that consume pirated content.

The IPOPHL has been advocating for the amendment of the 27-year-old IP Code and supports the implementation of measures to disable access to websites infringing on copyrighted materials.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE National Bank (PNB), the financial arm of tycoon Lucio Tan, successfully returned to the offshore bond market, raising $300 million from a five-year sustainability bond offering.

This marks PNB’s first bond issue in five years and forms part of its $2-billion euro medium term note program, the bank said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Thursday.

The bank conducted a two-day roadshow starting Oct. 14, 2024 to attract potential investors. The bond

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission proposed four sets of amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 that will help address its pending backlog of around 6,000 cases.

ERC commissioner Floresinda Digal said during the Senate committee hearing Thursday that of the total pending cases, 3,000 were filed by different regulated entities.

“The other half is a result of our monitoring and enforcement of powers, which is a result of show cause orders that we have issued to erring stakeholders. So for us, we would like to ask support for the EPIRA amendments that would give authority to the Energy Regulatory Commission to undertake further restructuring and reorganization of the agency,” Digal said.

Digal said that aside from giving authority to the ERC to undertake periodic restructuring and reorganization of the agency, the EPIRA should provide clarity and expressed language on the permitting and quasi-judicial functions of the regulator.

Digal said that as of now, even applications for certificate of compliance or COC by power generating companies are elevated to the fiveman commission en banc.

was priced at T+102 basis points, with a fixed coupon rate of 4.85 percent.

PNB said there was strong interest in the offering, which was more than 3.6 times oversubscribed, totaling $1.1 billion from global investors.

Moody’s assigned a Baa3 investment grade rating to the bond.

“We believe this is an ideal time to return to the market, given the reduction in interest rates complemented by the bank’s improved core banking activities. We have already enhanced our banking operations and processes to support continuous growth as we expect our business to further strengthen in the future,” said Francis Albalate, chief financial officer of PNB. Investor interest was predominantly from the Asia Pacific region, accounting for 89 percent of the total. By investor type, 67 percent were asset managers and hedge funds, 23 percent were banks and 10 percent

included private banks and broker dealers. PNB president Florido Casuela expressed gratitude for the support from global investors. “The result of this note offering is a clear indication of investors’ trust and confidence in PNB,” Casuela said. He said the bank would use the funds for sustainable financing initiatives, strengthening its role in the Philippine banking system. ING and J.P. Morgan acted as joint lead managers for the offering, with PNB Capital serving as the sole global coordinator and ING as the sole sustainability coordinator.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ABS-CBN Entertainment reached 50 million subscribers on YouTube, solidifying its position as the most subscribed media and entertainment channel in Southeast Asia.

“We are grateful to our Kapamilyas who continue to support our shows on YouTube amidst an evolving digital landscape. We share this milestone with our new and loyal subscribers alike. Since ABS-CBN’s shift to digital, our viewers have embraced YouTube as a go-to source of ABS-CBN content,” said Jamie Lopez, head of ABS-CBN Digital said.

“We will continue to meet the increasing demand for content online through our offerings on YouTube as we make these accessible to more Kapamilyas in different parts of the world,” he said.

Ajay Vidyasagar, managing director of YouTube Southeast Asia and emerging markets, congratulated ABS-CBN for reaching 50 million subscribers on their YouTube channel.

“This milestone is a testament to their commitment to providing exceptional content that resonates with millions of Filipinos and viewers around the world. We at YouTube are proud

store, which are sold at lower, more affordable prices compared to those in commercial markets.

to partner with ABS-CBN in their journey to connect with audiences and tell compelling stories,” he said.

ABS-CBN said it continues to strengthen its online presence as the company went full blast on digital in 2020 by offering for free its currently airing programs and well-loved shows on YouTube for its growing online family of subscribers.

ABS-CBN also innovates its YouTube viewing experience through Kapamilya Online Live, which offers 24/7 livestreaming and up to 21 days of on-demand viewing of the latest episodes of current ABS-CBN programs and classic shows.

nancial transactions,” said AUB president Manuel Gomez. Net interest margin increased by 11 percent to P12.5 billion, thanks to higher interest income from loans and investments. The net interest margin ratio rose to 5.3 percent from 4.9 percent last year. Non-interest income also grew on better foreign exchange gains, recov

IN BRIEF

PLDT eyes 5G-powered fixed wireless access PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and

By Othel V. Campos

GAC Motor Philippines, a unit of Guangdong-based GAC Group, reported a 106-percent surge in vehicle sales to 2,511 units from January to September 2024.

Based on the data released by the Truck Manufacturers’ Association (TMA) and the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI), GAC Motor emerged as the second most popular Chinese auto brand in the passenger vehicle segment.

The brand attributed the growth to its strong product lineup and strategic expansion of its dealer network.

Leading the sales are GAC Motor’s highly sought-after models—the GS3 Emzoom, M6 Pro and M8. Astara, the exclusive importer of GAC Motor vehicles, said the brand captivated Filipino consumers with its cutting-edge technology, advanced features and exceptional driving experiences.

GAC Motor is strategically expanding its presence in the Philippines, aiming to increase its dealership network from 29 to 38 facilities by the end of the year. The expansion will enhance accessibility and improve customer service in key cities across the Philippines.

(from left) Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Department of Migrant Workers Sedretary Hans

Ride-hailing firm expands in PH

GLOBAL ride-hailing company inDrive is optimistic about its operations in the Philippines despite facing intense competition from established players and emerging new mobility apps.

Natalia Makarenko, InDrive marketing director for Asia Pacific (APAC), said in an email interview that the Philippines presents significant opportunities for the company, despite market challenges.

She highlighted the growing demand for ridehailing services in underserved areas as a prime avenue for expansion.

Makarenko, who boasts over 14 years of experience in business, marketing and customer experience worldwide, emphasized inDrive’s commitment to offering both passengers and partner drivers freedom of choice, setting it apart from competitors.

Following its launch in Metro Manila, inDrive plans to expand its services to neighboring cities and key regions across the Philippines including Cebu, Davao and Pampanga.

Besides Metro Manila, inDrive also operates in Bacolod, Baguio, Iloilo, Butuan and Cagayan de Oro.

The company also aims to introduce other inDrive services to the Philippine market, catering to the specific needs of Filipino consumers.

For now, inDrive’s priority is to onboard more partner drivers to increase the availability of ridehailing services and create more job opportunities for Filipinos.

“In addition to ride-hailing, we are also exploring additional mobility options to better meet the growing demand for more efficient transportation and delivery solutions,” Makarenko said.

“Furthermore, we are looking into the implementation of online wallets to enhance convenience for our users. By expanding our

services and ensuring that they resonate with the unique needs of the Filipino market, we believe we can significantly increase our market presence and better serve our community,” she said.

To attract more drive partners, inDrive maintained a 0 to 10-percent commission rate depending on the city.

“By far, this is the lowest in the local market, allowing our partner drivers to keep more of their earnings. This has been instrumental in attracting new partner drivers and fostering loyalty,” Makarenko said.

“Beyond financial incentives, we recently launched our ‘Ka-gulong, Kita Tayo!’ campaign, which focuses on driver welfare. We’ve partnered with groups like Laban TNVS to give partner drivers a platform to voice their concerns and access support systems” she said.

The company aims to onboard 16,000 partnerdrivers in Metro Manila by year-end, up from the current 8,000.

By allowing users to select their rides, inDrive aims to enhance the overall experience and satisfaction. “This approach will not only apply to ride-hailing but will also extend to other services we plan to introduce soon,” Makarenko said.

“Additionally, we are committed to actively listening to user feedback and continuously refining our offerings. Our goal is to create a seamless and empowering experience that meets the diverse needs of our community while reinforcing our commitment to freedom of choice,” she said.

The company, which launched operations in the Philippines in June, operates in over 700 cities across more than 46 countries. Darwin G. Amojelar

2GO partners with Grab to offer door-to-shore transportation

2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated transportation and logistics solutions provider, has partnered with Grab, Southeast Asia’ s leading super app, , to provide a seamless and convenient door-to-shore and shoreto-door transportation option.

This strategic partnership spans five major ports across the country: Manila, Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro, combining the strengths of two industry leaders to enhance the journey of modern travelers.

Starting October 15, every 2GO Travel ticket transaction made through the 2GO app will come with a Grab promo code in the booking

confirmation email. Passengers can use this code to book Grab rides to or from their homes to the specified port, making the entire journey more convenient and hassle-free.

EMIRATES continues to recruit cabin crew members from all over the globe, including the Philippines with its inflight offerings that have become synonymous with luxury.

From its five-star-hotel-like amenities and regionally inspired cuisine to its award-winning inflight entertainment system and everything in between.

Aside from five-star-hotel-like amenities and regionally inspired cuisine to its award-winning inflight entertainment system, one key factor

SPI opens state-of-the-art training facility

SUMISETSU Philippines, Inc. (SPI), an affiliate of Japan’s Sumitomo Densetsu Co. Ltd., has inaugurated its new state-of-the-art Technical Center in Baliuag, Bulacan. The three-building facility is designed to enhance the skills and capabilities of SPI employees, subcontractors, and Filipino workers selected by government partners.

Makoto Tani, president of Sumitomo Densetsu Co. Ltd., led the ribbon cutting and tree-planting rites at the 6,000 square-meter site, together with guests headed by Ms. Mary Grace T. Romero, provincial director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Tani underscored Sumitomo Densetsu’s values of Sincerity, Teamwork, and Creation. At the opening program, he cited the center’s role in enabling SPI to achieve more milestones as it promotes safety and quality by providing training to workers while serving as a showroom for the wide range of SPI services. All these, he said, work well in creating a sustainable future with advanced technology. The 6,000 square-meter facility includes a 1,160

square-meter Training Center, a 620 square-meter Fabrication Workshop, and a Warehouse equipped with energy-efficient technologies.

According to SPI President Tomonori Nakagawa, SPI training programs are developed by Sumitomo Densetsu Group, using advanced construction labor-saving and off-site construction methods.

He said that these enable teams to meet project construction deadlines while showcasing the application of extensive technical and engineering education programs.

“We plan to leverage this new facility to extend our proven expertise beyond Japanese corporations, reaching major Filipino and Western companies,” Nakagawa added.

He also said that as part of SPI’s dedication to environmental sustainability, the facility is built with energy-saving features and designed to receive the prestigious LEED Gold certification, a prestigious environmental rating system from the US. SPI aligns with TESDA to further strengthen the quality and recognition of the training offered

“At 2GO, we are dedicated to enriching every aspect of our customers’ travel experience, ensuring their journey is enjoyable and stressfree from start to finish. Our partnership with Grab perfectly aligns with our goal of providing seamless transportation solutions, both to and from the pier,” Blessie Cruz, 2GO Retail Business Unit head said.

“Grab is an ideal partner to help us deliver this promise, enhancing the overall travel convenience we offer to our passengers,” she added. As a trusted provider of safe, reliable, and convenient ridehailing services, GJ Rono , director for Commercial and Business Development of Grab Philippines said his company has always been keen on collaborating with companies that share its mission of improving the transport experience of Filipinos.

Emirates to hire more Filipino crew

that makes Emirates truly one of the most beloved airlines in the world is its diverse cabin crew team—of which a large number are Filipinos. In fact, Filipinos are among the top 10 at Emirates in terms of the number of cabin crew working for the airline. They are among the best when it comes to providing only the best inflight experiences to Emirates flyers, which can be attributed to their innate hospitality, possessing traits and qualities that make them good cabin crew members.

by SPI.

“TESDA accreditation is a mark of trust in the Philippines, and we are working to evolve our programs with their guidance,”Nakagawa said.

This new center will also benefit from the experience gained from Sumitomo Densetsu’s successful training programs in Thailand, which have been operational since 2014.

“Our state-of-the-art off-site construction methods and skilled worker education programs will set us apart in the market, positioning us as a key player in the Philippine Construction Industry,” Nakagawa said.

THE Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) has partnered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to provide convenient motor vehicle registration renewal services at the terminal. This service is available for both cars and motorcycles, making PITX an ideal location for motorists to renew their registrations. To complete the motor vehicle registration renewal process at PITX, requirements must be submitted such as LTO Client ID, one clear photocopy of the latest Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR), proof of electronically transmitted appropriate insurance Certificate of Cover (COC) and electronically transmitted Motor

“At

Natalia Makarenko, InDrive marketing director for Asia Pacific (APAC)

Facade of the new SPI Technical Center

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

ALEX GONZAGA

BIANCA Del Rio, the sharp-tongued winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6, is bringing her Dead Inside tour to Manila on Jan. 17, 2025. The show will take place at the New Frontier Theater, presented by LA Comedy Live.

Known for her biting wit and unapologetic humor, Del Rio has built a global following with her unfiltered comedy. From roasting celebrities to poking fun at fans, her performances leave no topic untouched. The Manila stop on her world tour promises fresh material and her trademark brand of raw, uncensored comedy.

“I’m coming out of my crypt to remind everyone I’m still DEAD INSIDE! If you love irreverent humor, sparkly costumes, and aren’t easily offended—this show is for you,” Del Rio said.

Tickets are now on sale through Ticketnet, with VIP packages and meetand-greet options available. Prices range from P3,202 to P10,672.

The event, organized by LA Comedy Live, promises an evening of laugh-out-loud moments that Manila fans won’t forget. Tickets can be purchased via www.ticketnet.com.ph.

By Nickie Wang

V HOST and social media personality Alex Gonzaga is taking a more relaxed approach in her journey to motherhood, despite past pregnancy struggles and a miscarriage.

Alex opened up about her experience with in vitro fertilization (IVF) and Lymphocyte Immunization Therapy (LIT), as well as her current use of Chef Ayb’s Herbal Tea, which

of conceiving.

that she previously felt pressured to conceive, particularly after hearing that the Year of the Dragon was a lucky year for couples trying to have children. She and her husband, Lipa City Councilor Mikee Morada , had hoped to conceive in 2024 but have since shifted their perspective.

“I felt so much pressure last year because people kept telling me that the Year of the Dragon was lucky for having a baby. I even went through IVF because of it,” Alex said.

In addition to IVF, the 35-year-old internet personality tried LIT, a treatment aimed at adjusting her immune system to better recognize pregnancy. According to Alex, her body previously failed to recognize pregnancy, preventing her from carrying to term.

As part of her efforts, Alex has also incorporated Paragis tea into her routine. She praised the herbal tea for its health benefits, including its potential to support fertility.

Chelsea Manalo off to Mexico for Miss Universe 2024

because if you hear that, then you have the voice. We already have that voice, and we are already impactful in so many ways. Hearing people can already be influential

Best in Barong. Born and raised in Kuwait, Al Zghayér, who speaks different Arabic languages, studied Hotel Management and worked

“I’ve been drinking this tea, and my last test showed positive results. My body is now 60 percent ready for pregnancy, according to my doctor,” she explained, adding that Paragis is known to help with reproductive health. She noted, however, that the tea should be stopped once pregnancy is achieved to avoid any potential risks.

Alex now feels more at peace, saying she is no longer pressuring herself and is open to whatever timing fate may bring.

Miss Universe fever is on with Chelsea Manalo set to join 120-plus delegates of the pageant’s 73rd edition in Mexico City.

Filipino fans eagerly await to see how the country’s firstever Filipino-Black American representative will make an impact on the Miss Universe stage. They have one question in mind: “Is Miss Universe ready to crown another Black woman after Zozibini Tunzi?”

“I feel more than ready for Miss Universe, especially now seeing all of you here giving me support, and also with the whole MUPH organization behind me. What you saw during Miss Universe Philippines, I will do the same but on a higher level. Just wait and see what I have to bring to the competition,” Manalo enthused during her official sendoff held at the Hilton Manila. Manalo said she would continue being an inspiration as a woman of color, citing the importance of hearing the stories of other people.

“The story that you hear from other people, try to indulge in that,

because you have that capacity to know what is happening in reality,” the proud Bulakeña stressed.

The 25-year-old Manalo will compete on the Miss Universe stage alongside halfFilipinas Miss Universe Great Britain 2024

Christina Chalk and recently crowned

Miss Universe New Zealand 2024

Victoria Velasquez Vincent, who both competed in Miss Universe Philippines 2024, as well as Miss Universe Bahrain 2024 Shereen Ahmed

* * * Fil-Jordanian tops 11th Misters of Filipinas

RaÉd Al Zghayér, a 36-year-old Filipino-Jordanian, clinched the top title of Man of the World Philippines 2024 during the finals of the 11th Misters of Filipinas, held recently at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City. Al Zghayér was named

as a flight attendant. He took to pageantry as a stepping stone in pursuing his dream of becoming a Hollywood actor. He previously represented the Philippines in Mister Supranational 2022, where he finished in the top 20 semi-finalists.

Denver Argana of Muntinlupa City was named Mister Fitness Super Model World Philippines 2024. A freelance model and graduate of Hotel and Restaurant Management from Lyceum of Alabang, the 6-foot-2 Argana was adjudged Best in Swimwear.

Filipino-Italian Gian Antonio Guidecilli of Cebu won the title Top Model of the Universe Philippines 2024. Guidecilli graduated magna cum laude in Nursing at the University of San Carlos (USC), where he won Mr. USC Intramurals 2023. The half-brother of actor Matteo Guidicelli said that his modeling stint with B&B Models Cebu helped him overcome his shyness and gave him the confidence to compete in the

of the 11th Misters of Filipinas

From left: Alex Gonzaga with her parents Pinty and Bonoy

Alex Gonzaga (right) with her husband Lipa City Councilor Mikee Morada

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Celebrating Oktoberfest for the second

By Abigail Adriatico

OKTOBERFEST

is a well-known celebration originating from Germany that involves sharing large glasses of beer, delicious food, and fun music with dear friends throughout the night. With its lively festivities eventually attracting global attention, it made its way to the Philippines, where many iterations of the iconic event have sprouted across the country.

Eager to continue its previous commemoration of Oktoberfest, Newport World Resorts is set to hold its second edition with a much more authentic and larger celebration.

Hilton Manila General Manager John Lucas shared how the hotel’s first Oktoberfest last year was a success, and

expressed his hopes for an even bigger event this year, aiming to provide an authentic experience for attendees.

“Oktoberfest, ladies and gentlemen, is all about authenticity, and what we’ve been able to do is capture a little bit of Munich right here in Hilton Manila,” said Lucas.

From Oct. 24 to 26, starting at 6:00 p.m.,

The Ballroom of Hilton Manila will be transformed into a traditional Bavarian beer hall, complete with classic long benches and festive decorations.

Servers will be dressed in traditional German clothing called Tracht , with men wearing Lederhosen and women wearing Dirndl

Attendees will have the chance to enjoy classic Bavarian draft beers from the Weihenstephan Brewery, the oldest continuously operating brewery in the world. The beer will be paired with delectable food such as freshly baked pretzels, German rye bread with flavorful dips, Munich-style sausage salad, platters of pork bratwurst and frankfurter paired with tangy sauerkraut, crispy pork knuckle, chicken schnitzel, cheese-topped spaetzle, baked apple tart, and Kaiserschmarrn

While partaking in the feast, guests will

throughout the night.

celebration

Newport World Resorts VP for F&B Operations Knut Becker highlighted that this year’s Oktoberfest will be even bigger due to the team’s dedicated efforts in preparing for the event.

“Last year was the first [Oktoberfest], and it was a lot more difficult to convey the message of what we wanted to achieve. This year, having gone through one full cycle, it was much easier to put everything together. The team did an outstanding job. They all know now what Oktoberfest is about, and I have no doubt that you will see a better Oktoberfest this year,” said Becker.

Tickets are priced at P5,400 per person, with each ticket holder eligible for a special rate of P7,500 per room for an overnight stay at Hilton Manila, including breakfast for two during the festival. Guests can also opt for Holiday Inn Express - Newport City’s overnight stay package, which includes breakfast for two, for P4,000.

For tickets and more information on the upcoming Oktoberfest, visit www. newportworldresorts.com/oktoberfest-2024.

WE NEVER forget our childhood friends. Years may go by, and we sometimes feel sentimental about the friends we used to play and hang out with. We may have lost contact with them, but there’s still space in our hearts for those fun memories, especially if you’ve created a bond that feels close to home.

A new K-drama that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of reminiscing and reconnecting with childhood friends is the Viu Original Family By Choice, starring Hwang In-Youp, Jung ChaeYeon, and Bae Hyeon-Song The show revolves around three friends who bond over their shared family experiences as kids but are separated due to different circumstances. Years later, the trio reunites and reignites their friendship as adults.

If you’re looking for a heartwarming K-drama to binge-watch, here are three reasons why you should tune in to Viu Original Family By Choice

A stellar cast

Many K-drama fans know Hwang In-Youp as Han Seo-Jun in the hit romcom True Beauty and as Gong Chan in Viu Original Why Her?. He also held a successful fanmeet tour in Southeast Asia back in 2022. This time, he plays Kim San-Ha in the Viu Original Family By Choice, who is the son of a single dad and befriends Yoon Ju-Won (played by Jung Chae-Yeon) and Kang Hae-Jun (Bae Hyeon-Song).

Jung Chae-Yeon is best known for her leading role in To Jenny, which earned her a Best New Actress recognition at the 31st Grimae Awards. She also received a nomination from the KBS Drama Awards for her portrayal in The King’s Affection Bae Hyeon-Seong is a rising star who became popular for his roles in the drama series Love Playlist and Hospital Playlist

The beautiful sights of Haedong The series is set in the port city of Haedong, known for its historical landmarks like the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and breathtaking scenery. Viewers will be able to marvel at the picturesque sights of Haedong while following the trio’s story in every episode

Relatable themes of love, family, and friendship Family and friendship often evoke strong emotions, and Viu Original Family By Choice is a relatable show that tackles the characters’ friendship and how they create an unconventional family born out of their individual circumstances. Their story is sure to tug at many people’s heartstrings as it portrays different types of love and the concept of having a chosen family. You should also ready your tissues because some scenes do get emotional.

If you’re excited to watch the show, you can celebrate with fellow K-drama fans at “The Housewarming” event from Oct. 19 to 20 at Uptown Mall, Taguig City. The event welcomes mall-goers and Viu users to join activities and win prizes with their “family of choice,” be it their immediate family members, best friends, or partners. They can also immortalize their experience at the Photobooth Area and Standee Photo area with the cast of the Viu Original Family By Choice

be entertained by the renowned Austrian band AnTon Showband , playing energizing Oktoberfest hits to keep the

going

‘TeaM Fair 2024’ was held at the Bulacan Sports Complex in Malolos

From left: Distributors of Weihenstephan Brewery products Managing Director Larelen Go Dagondon, Newport World Resorts VP for F&B Operations Knut Becker, Newport World Resorts Chief Marketing Officer David Jorden, Hilton Manila General Manager John Lucas, Hilton Manila Director for

Lulai Sau, and host Eiffelene Howard

Anchored in imagination

EVER since reading The Imagineering Way: Ideas to Ignite Your Creativity over a decade ago, I have been fangirling over the brilliant minds behind Disney’s most magical creations. Disney Imagineers are those who bridge the gap between imagination and engineering (creative engineers!) and bring to life visions that seem impossible.

These creative engineers dream up rides, attractions, and experiences that transport us beyond reality. To witness the reveal of their latest work for Disney Cruise Line felt like a full-circle moment for the Disney fan in me.

Disney Imagineers are the heart and soul of the magic found at Disney theme parks, resorts, and now, on the seas. They are responsible for designing immersive environments that tell stories through architecture, rides, shows, and technology. At Marina Bay Sands’ Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore on Oct. 16, hundreds of journalists from Asia were invited to witness the grand reveal of the Disney Adventure, the premier cruise ship set to sail the Asian seas.

This event was an immersive kind of press conference—it was a celebration of the Imagineers’ masterpieces. Doing it the Disney way, the grand reveal had live performances and booth setups that simulated what guests on the cruise ship will experience.

The Disney Adventure is set to have its maiden voyage on Dec. 15, 2025, and the anticipation in the room was palpable. Imagineers introduced seven new themed areas aboard the ship, each designed to excite passengers in a unique way. These areas are not just settings, but entire worlds where guests will be immersed in the stories they love. Each space reflects the creativity that makes Disney experiences extraordinary.

Hearing about Marvel Landing, one of the ship’s flagship areas, I couldn’t help but marvel at the attention to detail. Here, passengers will feel as if they’ve stepped into the Marvel Universe itself. From

How Walt Disney Imagineers shape the Disney Adventure cruise

designed for both young and old, inviting everyone

their favorite superhero stories.

Then there’s Disney Imagination Garden, a quiet area reminiscent of the whimsical settings found in classic Disney

It was mentioned how this serene garden was inspired by the theme of exploration and wonder, inviting guests to daydream among the flora while animatronic birds and hidden Disney characters surprise them along the way. Here, storytelling offers a space for reflection in the midst of fun and excitement.

One of the most striking new features is San Fransokyo Street, an area blending the high-tech wonders of Big Hero 6 with the culture and aesthetics of a modern Asian city. This area was designed to resonate with Asian audiences, giving them a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. This blend of technology and culture highlights the Imagineers’ skill in creating something new while paying homage to the stories and settings that fans adore.

Disney Adventure media conference was held at the Marina Bay Sands’

and

and mesmerizing aquatic environments await.

With each area on the Disney Adventure carefully curated, it’s clear that the Imagineers have thought of every detail—from grand spectacles to intimate, magical moments. Aligned with their legacy of creativity, the Disney Adventure promises to be an unforgettable journey into the worlds of Disney, Pixar, and Marvel. Bookings for the Disney Adventure open on Dec. 10, 2024.

As the Imagineers continue to reimagine the boundaries of cruising, and based on what I saw at the event, life at sea has never been this enchanting. So, whether you’re a dreamer, a wayfinder, or simply ready for thrills, the Disney Adventure is sure to be your ticket to a magical seafaring escape. And remember, the best trips are the ones that challenge your core and keep your imagination cruising long after you’ve returned to the shore.

Another highlight is Wayfinder Bay, a tribute to the Pacific Islands and the spirit of exploration. This area channels the energy of Moana and the ancient wayfinders, giving passengers a sense of adventure as they sail the open seas. The Imagineers crafted this space to inspire guests to explore not only the physical world but also their own potential for discovery.

Another themed area onboard the Disney Adventure cruise that seems exciting for guests to explore is Toy Story Place. This is where they are shrunk down to toy size and step into the playful world of Woody, Buzz, and friends, complete with interactive games and larger-than-life attractions. For a more nostalgic experience, Town Square evokes the charm of classic Disney theme parks, offering a stroll through a visually rich setting inspired by Main Street, U.S.A., with family-friendly shops, eateries, and entertainment.

Meanwhile, Disney Discovery Reef plunges guests into a vibrant underwater world filled with Disney’s beloved oceanic tales like Finding Nemo and Mermaid, where water-based activities

The cruise ship will have live performances featuring beloved Disney characters

The Disney Adventure will be embarking on its first voyage on Dec. 15, 2025

Random Talk Kate Adajar

The cruise ship features numerous amenities designed by Disney Imagineers such as the Disney Imagination Garden

interactive encounters with superheroes to the adrenaline-pumping Ironcycle Test Run—the longest roller coaster at sea—Marvel Landing promises to be a hub of action and adventure. It’s

The

Expo

Convention Centre in Singapore

The Little