QUAD COMM CALLS FOR FILING OF DRUG WAR RAPS VS. RODY, BATO, GO
By Maricel V. Cruz
Rosa. This is in connection with the alleged extrajudicial killings of more than 30,000 victims during the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
Meanwhile, five Philippine National Police (PNP) officers were also recommended to be filed with charges under Republic Act 9851 or the “Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and other Crimes against Humanity.”
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These were former police chiefs
and
PBBM to line veto 2025 budget
Delays Dec. 20 signing of bill for ‘rigorous, exhaustive review’
By Charles Dantes, Ralph Rirao and Maricel Cruz
PRESIDENT
Ferdinand
“Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will veto certain items in the ratified budget bill for 2025 as he postponed the signing of the measure, originally scheduled for December 20, to “allow more time for a rigorous and exhaustive review.”
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Mr. Marcos is personally leading the review and is consulting with the heads of major government departments to ensure that the budget reflects national priorities and adheres to fiscal policies.
“The scheduled signing of the General Appropriations Act on December 20 will not push through to allow more time for a rigorous and exhaustive review of a measure that will determine the course of the nation for the next year,” Bersamin said in a statement.
He also confirmed that certain items in the budget would be vetoed.
“This will be done in the interest of public welfare, to conform with the fiscal program, and in compliance with laws,” he added.
The General Appropriations Act must be signed into law before the end of the year to avoid a reenacted
Marcos assures Veloso’s safety as she appeals for clemency
By Charles Dantes, Pot Chavez, Rachelle Tonelada, Maricel Cruz and Ralph Rirao
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the safety of Mary Jane Veloso, the Filipina worker who returned
home yesterday morning after being detained in Indonesia for nearly 15 years for drug trafficking. Veloso, for her part, appealed to Mr. Marcos to grant her clemency as she expressed gratefulness for her “new life” following her repatriation after
President greenlights 5 key
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Marcos demonstrated his administration’s commitment to “transformative” infrastructure initiatives with the signing yesterday of five
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) transportation projects in Malacañan Palace.
During the signing ceremonies, the chief executive said these projects not only seek to modernize transportation but to boost economic opportunities in
various parts of the country as well, reflecting the “Bagong Pilipinas” mindset of innovation and progress.
“We Filipinos have a saying: ‘Nothing is impossible for those of us who
years of negotiations.
“We assure the Filipino people that Ms. Veloso’s safety and welfare is paramount and our agencies in the justice and law enforcement sector shall continue to ensure it, as our Indonesian counterparts have safeguarded it for so
long,” the President said.
“We take this opportunity to extend our gratitude to the Indonesian government and to all who have extended assistance for the welfare of Ms. Mary Jane Veloso,” he added.
By Vito Barcelo
By Maricel V. Cruz
By Maricel V. Cruz
Os-
David Albayalde
Debold Sinas; police colonels Royina Garma and Edilberto Leonardo; and Palace aide
GRATEFUL. Death convict Mary Jane Veloso makes a heart sign to media after arriving at the Bureau of Women’s Correctional in Mandaluyong City. She later on met had a reunion of sorts with her family, including sons Daniel and Darren, at the facility.
BUDGET REVIEW. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. presides over a meeting with Executive Secretary Bersamin, DOF Secretary Ralph Recto, DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, and NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan to review the 2025 national budget, ensuring alignment with key development priorities.
HONORING THE WOUNDED. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez visits wounded soldiers at the V. Luna Medical Center Tuesday to extend financial assistance to the patients and their families this Christmas season. He also led the inauguration and blessing of the Bagong Bayaning Mandirigma (BBM) Casualty and Cancer Care Center, a vital facility dedicated to the care and recovery of our nation’s heroes. Ver Noveno
budget, which would limit the government’s ability to implement new programs and initiatives.
On Monday, the President expressed his desire to finish the budget process “by Christmas” even as he grappled with budget cuts in the ratified bill, including a P10 billion slash from the Department of Education for its computerization program.
He assured the public that “nothing will disadvantage key sectors” in the final version of the budget bill.
Congress leaders said they respect the decision of the President to veto line items in the 2025 national budget.
“It’s part of the legislative process and the system of checks and balances in our Constitution,” Senate President Francis Escudero said.
“The Executive is well within its rights and prerogatives to review, study and make line item vetoes—as
is usually done every year with the General Appropriations Bill—especially given its length, complexity and detail,” he added.
Senator Grace Poe, for her part, said the President’s decision to review the bill ratified by the bicameral conference committee is “a sign of a healthy democracy.”
“We have to support the checks and balances of our budgetary process.
The President has the authority to assess the budget and approve or veto the proposed GAA. The GAA is the most important piece of legislation that can determine our economic stability and our GDP growth in 2025,” Poe said.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said even if the budget is reenacted, it will still be better rather than have a GAA that is unconstitutional.
“Let’s not panic (if it is not yet done by) December 31. If we research, we’ll see how many times in the past January 1 came without a budget. Everything was fine, we survived, and nothing bad happened to the repub -
lic,” Pimentel said.
“It’s better to have an acceptable budget law than to have a budget law that the people would oppose, just for the sake of having it signed into law before December 31,” he added.
The chair of the House committee on appropriations, Rep. Elizaldy Co, commended the President “for his commitment to ensure that the national budget aligns with the country’s priorities.”
“This approach exemplifies the strength of our democratic processes and the effective system of checks and balances in our government,” Co said.
“We stand prepared to work alongside the President to refine the budget, ensuring it serves the best interests of all Filipinos,” he added.
Earlier, Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri warned of a possible violation of the constitutional mandate that education should receive the highest budgetary priority.
“The budget cut was really high – almost P42 billion. Hopefully, the President can address this with his veto
powers,” Zubiri said, noting that public works appeared to have the largest budget share contrary to what the Constitution provides.
Senator Imee Marcos likwise flagged the substantial increase in the Department of Public Works and Highways budget, now at P1.1 trillion, as well as the removal of the PhilHealth subsidy.
The President, however, said he was okay with the reduction in PhilHealth’s budget allocation, citing the state insurer’s substantial reserves.
“PhilHealth has P500 billion in reserve, while their yearly expenditure is less than P100 billion. Even with the reduced allocation, they have sufficient funds to continue operations,” the President said.
He said PhilHealth’s challenges lie not in funding but in processing claims efficiently.
“The priority is to digitize their system so people can access their claims faster. The problem isn’t about insufficient funds, but their capacity to process claims quickly,” Mr. Marcos added.
on Good Government and Public Accountability, or the Blue Ribbon Committee, where lawmakers scrutinized PhilHealth’s ballooning funds, prompting Congress to propose zero subsidy for the agency under the P6.53-trillion national budget for 2025.
PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. reported that as of October 2024, the agency holds a P150 billion surplus, P281 billion in reserves, and an investment portfolio nearing P489 billion. Ledesma cited PhilHealth’s financial stability and announced plans for a 50 percent increase in coverage for most case rate packages.
Despite these figures, lawmakers argued that PhilHealth’s growing reserves and investments have not translated into significant relief for Filipino families burdened with rising healthcare costs.
Manila Rep. Joel Chua, chair of the Blue Ribbon Committee, raised concerns over unused government subsidies being diverted to investments rather than directly funding healthcare.
wounded soldiers in recognition of their sacrifice and unwavering dedication to the country.
“These brave men and women have given so much for our country, and it is only fitting that we extend our gratitude and assistance to help them during this season of giving,” he said yesterday.
Five soldiers who sustained major injuries in the line of duty each received P100,000 in cash assistance.
The recipients were identified as SSG. Rodel Buenavista (Phil. Marines), and SGT. Clint John Cuizon, CPL. Ronbel Esporma, CPL. Argie Son-oc, and SSG Benjie Idmilao, all from the Philippine Army (PA).
Meanwhile, 24 other soldiers, who are currently recovering from various injuries each received P10,000 in financial support.
Romualdez paid a visit to the wounded soldiers during the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Bagong Bayaning Mandirigma Casualty and Cancer Care Center at the military hospital.
“This modest support is our way of showing appreciation for their heroism and to let them know that they are not alone in their recovery,” he said.
Romualdez emphasized the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made by members of the military, particularly those who have been injured in the line of duty.
He assured them that their welfare remains a priority and that the government will continue to support them and their families.
The Speaker also wished the soldiers a speedy recovery and reminded them that their bravery and sacrifices are appreciated by the administration.
dream’,” Mr. Marcos said, addressing diplomats, government officials, and private sector stakeholders.
“But the journey to these dreams often starts with a queue—at terminals, on the streets, or in government offices. It’s time to move beyond ‘pwede na yan’ [that’s good enough] and commit to ‘we can do better’,” he added.
Documents were signed sealing the Concession Agreement between the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. for the Bohol-Panglao International Airport.
This involves the upgrade, expansion, operation, and maintenance of
the said airport spanning 30 years, with the official turnover scheduled for June 2025.
Also signed between the DOTr and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) were the Transaction Advisory Services Agreements for the New Dumaguete and Siargao Airports, the New Cebu International Container Port, and the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit.
The IFC’s transaction advisory services will help the government implement the PPP transactions and expand private sector participation.
The DOTr likewise awarded the Civil Works Contract Package for the New Cebu International Container Port to HJ Shipbuilding Corporation Co. LTD during the event.
Also, the New Cebu International Cargo Port is set to strengthen the country’s maritime infrastructure and elevate the Philippines as a key trade and logistics hub in Southeast Asia.
Additionally, the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit is envisioned to deliver a safer, more secure, more efficient, and climate-friendly transport system to Cebuanos.
For his part, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto called the five PPP transportation projects “a monumental gift to Filipinos this Christmas.”
“All these projects are a major win for the economy, for tourism, for the environment, for the private sector, and most of all, for the Filipino people,” the finance chief said during the signing event.
PhilHealth Chief Financial Officer Renato Limsiaco admitted that surplus funds, after covering benefit payments, are directed into investments. Chua stressed that healthcare services must remain PhilHealth’s priority.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon cited Republic Act (RA) 10606 or the National Health Insurance Act, which requires PhilHealth to use excess reserve funds to expand benefits and lower premium contributions. Bongalon challenged PhilHealth to fulfill both mandates.
Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo confronted Ledesma for repeatedly ignoring her calls to reduce premiums, especially for minimum wage earners. Quimbo noted she had even filed a resolution calling for a moratorium on contributions for minimum wage earners.
Herminia “Muking” Espino.
The recommendation was contained in a 43-page Quad Comm progress report, compiled from 13 hearings from August 16 to December 12 this year.
The report outlined the facts established, evidence gathered, actions taken, and recommendations for remedial legislations concerning EJKs, illegal drugs, illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), and anomalous transactions involving local government units in various unlawful activities.
Former Sen. Leila De Lima, who appeared as a resource person in several Quad Comm hearings, said Republic Act 9851 holds not just the direct perpetrators responsible, but also those in leadership positions who order and induce such crimes.
During the 9th Quad Comm hearing, De Lima explained that the said law, enacted two years before the Philippines became a signatory to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), covers the systematic killings under Duterte’s drug war.
Veloso left Jakarta at 12:53 a.m. yesterday following a handover signing that removed the possibility of her execution.
The agreement between Jakarta and Manila states that she will be transferred as a prisoner with Manila to respect her life sentence, but it will fall under Philippine law upon her return, meaning President Marcos could grant her a reprieve.
Indonesia’s government said it would respect any decision made by Manila.
“This is a new life for me and I will have a new beginning in the Philippines,” Veloso said.
“My appeal to the President is to grant me clemency,” Veloso said in an interview at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City where she will stay for at least 60 days, including a five-day quarantine period.
Her mother Celia Veloso, 65, also called for President Marcos to grant her daughter clemency so she can spend Christmas with her family.
Veloso’s travel document was stamped with a deportation mark and she will be banned from reentering the country, according to Indonesian officials.
The 39-year-old mother of two was arrested and sentenced to death in 2010 after the suitcase she was carrying was found to be lined with 2.6 kilograms of
heroin, in a case that sparked uproar in the Philippines.
Veloso has long maintained her innocence, claiming she was a victim of human trafficking.
Her arrest has been a rallying point for advocacy groups and successive Philippine administrations, with calls for clemency and justice.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said likewise thanked Indonesia for their “act of compassion.”
“Their act of mercy speaks volumes,” said Remulla.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega added: “The return or transfer of Mary Jane to the Philippines is a win for diplomacy, for good relations between the Philippines and Indonesia.”
“We will abide by the practical arrangement that we signed two weeks ago... We will comply. The Philippines is known to be championing the rule of law. So, to the people of Indonesia, you are true friends of the Philippines,” De Vega added.
As this developed, a party-list lawmaker renewed calls for the immediate and full clemency of Veloso.
“Mary Jane Veloso is a victim, she is not a criminal. She is a victim of human trafficking and the government’s labor export policy that continues to push our women to work abroad despite the risks,” House Assistant Minority Leader and Gabriela party-list Rep. Brosas said.
“We call on President Marcos Jr. to
immediately act on Mary Jane’s case. Her continued detention is a grave injustice to a woman who was merely trying to provide for her family but ended up being exploited by trafficking syndicates,” she added.
Senators Call the attention of DFA and DMW on Similar Cases to Mary Jane Veloso
Following the return of Mary Jane Veloso, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudeo stated that this is a “wake up call” to the government to focus on similar situations on other Filipinos abroad.
Senate President Francis Escudero, for his part, called on the DFA to check on other Filipinos incarcerated in other countries.
“I am now asking them to inventory and make an accounting of Filipinos who are incarcerated in a foreign country,the nature of the cases against them, what has or can be done to help them regain their liberty,how we can assist to make their detention,” Escudero said.
Senator Joel Villanueva aired the same sentiment as he urged the DFA and Department of Migrant Workers to check on similar cases, particularly 49 OFWs currently on death row.
“This could also pave the way for our concerned government agencies to explore legal and diplomatic options, including possible commutation of sentence and allowing them to serve their sentence in the Philippines,” Villanueva said. With AFP
Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop questioned PhilHealth’s increasing investment income, which surged from P11.5 billion in 2022 to P20.7 billion in 2023. Acop also cited PhilHealth’s rising investments in time deposits and government bonds. Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel warned that PhilHealth’s focus on investments comes at the expense of its members.
Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito meanwhile renewed his call for the creation of a Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Universal Health Care (UHC) to evaluate the implementation of the landmark UHC Act and address gaps in the country’s healthcare system.
Ejercito raised this proposal during a Senate Committee on Health and Demography hearing, where he stressed the importance of closely monitoring the progress of the UHC Act, as mandated under Section 39 of the law, to ensure its objectives are being met.
The senator underscored the role of the PhilHealth as the primary agency tasked with delivering individual-based health services under the UHC framework.
The UHC Act aims to reduce outof-pocket medical expenses for Filipinos and ensure equitable access to healthcare.
Senator Christopher Lawrence Go echoed Ejercito’s sentiments, adding that public awareness about the UHC Act’s implementation is equally vital. “I agree with Senator JV—we need an oversight committee,” he said.
POGO operations. The commissioner warned that “those who fail to leave before the deadline will be subjected to deportation proceedings and will be blacklisted.”
“As of November, a total of 21,757 foreign nationals associated with POGO operations have voluntarily downgraded their work visas to temporary visitors visas,” he said.
The BI earlier deported 34 illegal foreigners who were charged with violating immigration laws.
The deportees boarded a Philippine Airlines flight to Xiamen, China, and
were previously arrested by authorities in Royal Corporation Xisheng IT, Lucky South 99 Outsourcing, and Royal Park.
All the foreigners faced multiple charges, including being undocumented, overstaying, working without proper visas or permits, and working for companies other than their petitioners.
Rep. Brian Yamsuan of Bicol Saro party-list group meanwhile urged fellow lawmakers to approve a measure that aims to impose harsh penalties of up to six years in jail against illegal foreign workers, to deter their involvement in unlawful activities and prevent them from taking jobs meant for Filipinos. Yamsuan issued the call following reports confirming the presence of Chi-
nese nationals illegally working in mining sites in Eastern Samar and Camarines Norte. The measure—House Bill (HB) 1279--would also help deter “guerilla” POGOs from thriving in the country, Yamsuan said.
Besides jail terms, HB 1279 also provides for a substantial increase on the fine imposed on foreigners found to be illegally working here--from the current P10,000 to P50,000 for every year, or a fraction thereof, of unlawful employment. Under the bill, employers who hire foreigners to work illegally in the country face fines of up to P200,000 and the possible suspension or closure of their businesses.
Yamsuan pointed out that the illegal
mining operations uncovered in the town of Paracale in Camarines Norte and Homonhon Island in Eastern Samar may be “small-scale” at this time, but even the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has expressed concern over the possibility that foreign workers could be illegally working in other mining sites across the country.
The DENR had uncovered in October an illegal mining operation in Paracale, Camarines Norte, where 11 Chinese posing as tourists were arrested, while the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported last month that it had nabbed 13 Chinese working in illegal mining sites in the Eastern Samar island of Homonhon. Maricel V. Cruz
Security Council welcomes OK of PH-Japan access agreement
THE National Security Council (NSC) welcomed on Wednesday the Senate’s approval of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan.
In a statement, the NSC described the approval as a groundbreaking development that bridges the Philippines’ commitment to a more resilient and secure Indo-Pacific region.
“In an era of shared challenges, this agreement is more than a partnership; it is a clear statement of intent to safeguard our national interests while fostering trust between two nations who stand for regional stability
MMDA
halts coding plan during Xmas, New Year
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced the suspension of the number coding scheme from December 24 to 25, and from December 30 to January 1.
In an advisory, the MMDA stated: The expanded number coding scheme will be suspended during the following holiday dates: Tuesday, December 24: Christmas Eve (special non-working holiday); Wednesday, December 25: Christmas Day (regular holiday); Monday, December 30: Rizal Day (regular holiday); Tuesday, December 31: Last day of the year (special non-working holiday); and Wednesday, January 1, 2025: New Year’s Day (regular holiday).
The number coding scheme corresponds to 1 and 2 for Monday, 3 and 4 for Tuesday, 5 and 6 for Wednesday, 7 and 8 for Thursday, and 9 and 0 for Friday. There is no number coding scheme on Saturdays and Sundays.
The MMDA expects the increased number of vehicles on the road as many people travel for vacations and Christmas celebrations.
The agency advised motorists to: “Wherever your destination is, always remember to plan your trip, follow traffic laws, and drive safely.”
Additionally, the MMDA convened members of the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MMDRRMC) to discuss measures and contingency plans for emergency situations during the holiday season.
The MMDA and MMDRRMC have developed a comprehensive plan to ensure that residents of the National Capital Region are prepared for potential disasters during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The meeting, chaired by MMDRRMC head and concurrent MMDA chief Don Artes, focused on potential disasters such as fires and heavy rainfall during the holiday season.
As a precaution, the operation center will be raised to Blue Alert from 8 a.m. on December 23 until 8 a.m. on January 6, 2025.
and peace,” NSC Spokesperson Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said.
The NSC also said that the RAA is not just about interoperability, it is about building a deeper bond of readiness and cooperation.
According to the NSC, the RAA opens doors to opportunities for joint training, strategic exchanges, and enhanced military engagements - crucial elements in strengthening the Philippine defense posture and increasing its preparedness in a fast-changing geopolitical landscape.
“For the Philippines, it signals a step forward in enhancing its capabilities as a responsible stakeholder in the Indo-Pacific,” Malaya said.
The NSC also views the agreement as a cornerstone of the evolving security architecture in the region.
“Japan’s growing role as a trusted partner aligns
‘NO’ TO ZERO SUBSIDY. Members of militant worker groups denounce the zero budget subsidy given to Philhealth by the House Bicameral Conference Committee in the proposed 2025 National Budget. The group urged President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. to veto the rati ed national budget version by the said committee. Norman Cruz
seamlessly with our vision of creating a network of cooperation with like-minded allies. The RAA represents a shift - from rhetoric to action - where joint undertakings will translate into strengthened security outcomes, better maritime awareness, and enduring regional peace,” the NSC also said.
The NSC also recognizes the Senate led by Senate President Francis Escudero and Senate Committee on Foreign Relations chair Imee Marcos in ensuring that this agreement aligns with the Philippines’ strategic priorities.
“As the National Diet of Japan takes its next steps, the RAA will open a new chapter in our defense collaboration, reflective of the growing confidence and shared responsibiliies between our two Pacific nations,” the NSC said. The RAA was signed in Manila in July and ratified this week. Rex Espiritu
Supermarkets
By Miguel C. Gil
THE Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association (PAGASA), a group representing small and medium-sized supermarkets nationwide said it would cooperate with an impending Congressional investigation into food price manipulation even as it appealed to lawmakers not to interfere with market forces. This came in reaction to House Speaker Martin Romuladez’s warning to re-
IN BRIEF
Senate tightens security after bomb ‘threat’
THE Senate Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) has tightened security in the Senate following a bomb threat.
“While it was not considered as a credible and serious threat, the OSAA is nevertheless taking the necessary precautions,” Senate President Escudero said. On social media, a comment stated that there is a bomb that will explode anytime at the
Cops nab suspect selling baby online
OPERATIVES of the Philippine National Police (PNP) - Women and Children’s Protection Center (WCPC) arrested a mother for allegedly selling her 13-day-old baby online in Taguig City. The police pretended to want to adopt the baby when the suspect offered it to them online.
“The baby is thirteen days old. It was offered on the internet, and we also had an undercover police officer. That was our way to entrap the seller,” said Police Brigadier General Portia Manalad, chief of the PNP-WCPC. The suspect is facing charges of violating RA 7610 or the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Human Trafficking.”
“Actually, we really discourage them from ending up here in illegal adoption. Because the DSWD said that they have eased the process to adopt a child,” Manalad said. Based on data from the PNPWCPC, there are 22 social media sites offering illegal adoption. The PNP has removed some of them, but there are still those operating that the police are continuing to monitor.
Vince Lopez
Ombudsman’s O ce hailed for e ciency
THE Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) has recognized the Office of the Ombudsman as the grand winner and the Most Significant Transaction Hours Reduced at the 2024 Fastbreak Awards.
The Ombudsman’s innovative e-Clearance Processing System slashed processing times from 60 days to just over an hour, saving an impressive 478.47 transaction hours.
The DAP said the Ombudsman’s effort is a meaningful step toward improving efficiency in public service. Rio N. Araja
vow to cooperate on price manipulation probe
tailers that the government is poised to run after profiteers and Albay Rep. Joey Salceda’s statement that the supermarket sector would be summoned to appear before the Quinta Committee.
In an interview on Wednesday, Steven Cua, executive director of PAGASA said representatives from the group would gladly face the House super panel if invited because they “have nothing to hide.”
He explained that while there is no
PNP exec confirms reshu le among police rank coming ‘soon’
By Vince Lopez
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo confirmed that there is a planned change within the ranks of the PNP.
Fajardo further said it is expected that in the coming days, there will be a reshuffle to fill the vacant positions left by retired officers.
On December 16, retirement honors were held for Deputy Chief for Operations Police Lieutenant General John Dubria, the second highest-ranking officer of the PNP.
Fajardo added that several important positions in the PNP remain vacant, including the director of the Directorate for Information and Communications Technology and the director of the Anti-Cybercrime Group.
Apart from that, the position of the director of the Headquarters Support Service is also expected to be vacant because of the imminent retirement of the current chief.
way to check if any store under the PAGASA banner is guilty of profiteering because its membership is spread out across the country, small and mediumsized supermarkets generally sell at lower prices than the “Big Three” supermarket chains.
Additionally, he said that PAGASA’s membership played no role in the surge in retail prices of rice.
“Our members get it [rice] from different sources. But if we buy it cheaply, then we will sell it cheaply. Our profit margins do not change,” he emphasized.
“It’s a good thing they [lawmakers] issued a warning [against profiteering]. We will not protect unscrupulous retailers who seek to make excessive and abusive profits. But generally, pricing too high is very risky for retailers. They can price themselves out of the competition. That’s the risk they’re taking,” Cua told the Manila Standard.
PEP TALK. Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief General Romeo S Brawner Jr., visits frontline
from December 16 to December 17, as part of the AFP’s 89th Founding Anniversary
The visit covered the Special Operations Command, Special Forces Regiment, Light Reaction Regiment, Army Aviation Regiment, Army Artillery Regiment, 7th Infantry ‘Kaugnay’ Division, Installation Management Command, and First Scout Ranger Regiment.
PAG-BIG PARTNERSHIP. Government o cials formalize the partnership between the Pag-IBIG Fund and the O ce of Transportation Cooperatives to expand nancial and housing opportunities for transport workers. Present at the ceremonial signing were (L-R) Rizal Transportation Cooperatives Chairperson Arcadio Inso, Pag-
IBIG Fund Deputy CEO Alexander Aguilar, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Jesus Ferdinand Ortega, O ce of Transportation Cooperatives Chairperson Misael Melinas, and National Federation of Transport Cooperatives Chairperson Reymundo De Guzman, Jr.
DECEMBER 19, 2024
House inquiry looms over TNVS violations
By Maricel V. Cruz
ARESOLUTION at the House of Representatives calls for an investigation into alleged improper implementation of senior citizen and persons with disabilities (PWD) discounts by Grab and other ridehailing service providers, as well as food delivery companies.
Senior Citizens party-list Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes filed Resolution 2134 seeking legislative inquiry into allegations that Grab and other Transportation Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) operators made their drivers shoulder the 20-percent discount for senior citizens, PWDs, and students.
According to Ordanes, such practices were a clear violation of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) policies.
“This conduct by ride-hailing and food delivery applications is utterly deplorable, as it constitutes criminal and exploitative behavior,” Ordanes said, adding that these companies must be sanctioned if found guilty.
During a hearing of the House Committee on Public Services, Grab’s head of public affairs Gregorio Ramon Tingson confirmed that their drivers shoulder the 20-percent discount given to persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and students.
Trike groups complain about surge of motor taxi operators
By Rio N. Araja
TRICYCLE groups in Metro Manila on Wednesday complained about the increasing number of motor taxis in Central Luzon and CALABARZON without public consultations.
At a Quezon City news conference, Ariel Lim, National Confederation of Tricycle Operators (NPTC) president, urged the government to arrest the expansion of motor taxis across the country, saying the operation of tricycles is badly affected.
“We were taken aback that there are 2,500 units per company operating in Region 3, and 8,000 others in Region IV-A. Motor taxi operators have shifted to these regions because there is a filed petition stopping the increase in Metro Manila,” he told reporters.
“Trike operators and drivers can foresee that they might have loss of income this Christmas,” he said. The NPTC and the National Confederation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines, however, clarified that they are not against the motor taxi operation, saying that what they are asking for is to stop the increase in number of motor taxis operating in various parts of the country.
“Let us respect our appeal. Tricycle drivers are no longer earning because those motor taxi drivers can directly pick up their passengers inside villages,” Lim said.
Makati gov’t passes edict promoting solar energy use
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE Makati City government has approved an ordinance promoting solar energy use in homes and businesses.
Makati Mayor Abigail Binay viewed the move as an important step toward clean energy for the city. She said the ordinance offers benefits such as exemption from real property tax (RPT) and simpler building permit requirements.
“The ordinance will be part of Makati’s long-term vision to balance economic growth and environmental health. It aims to promote the use of solar energy systems in commercial and residential properties which is expected to enhance energy efficiency, protect the environment, and lower energy costs for Makatizens,” said Binay.
Last week, the Sangguniang Panlungsod passed City Ordinance No. 2024-221, known as the Solar Energy Systems Ordinance that outlines rules for Accessory Solar Energy Systems (ASES), including instruments that can be mounted on roofs, walls, windows, or the ground.
“The ordinance supports Makati’s goal of balancing economic growth with a healthy environment. It encourages the use of solar energy in commercial and residential buildings, enhancing energy efficiency, protecting the environment, and lowering energy costs for residents,” Binay explained.
Under the new ordinance, ASES can be installed in all zoning districts and will be exempt from real property tax (RPT). Additionally, these systems will not count against the floor area ratio (FAR) or maximum building height restrictions.
ASES built before the ordinance takes effect will also be exempt from RPT and these restrictions. They will not have to meet the new terms unless there is a significant change. Routine maintenance or replacements do not require a permit. However, any major modifications will need approval under the ordinance.
All ASES must have an electrical permit and comply with the National Building Code of the Philippines and other existing laws.
House ratifies bill delaying BARMM polls by one year
By Maricel Cruz
THE House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on third and final reading, with 198 votes in favor and four against, a bill postponing the first regular elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) from May 12 next year to May 11, 2026,
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, the bill’s principal author, said the one-year postponement “would allow for more time for the promotion of broader participation from political parties and the electorate, and enhance their understanding of the new electoral processes.” It would also give the concerned authorities the chance to resolve emerging issues arising from the final decision of the Supreme Court (SC) excluding the province of Sulu from BARMM, Romualdez said. The leader of the 307-strong House said such decision has implications on the composition of the parliament of the autonomous region. The postponement was also in response to the clamor of stakeholders, he added.
Under House Bill (HB) 11144, the first regular election in BARMM would be held on the second Monday of May 2026 and every three years thereafter.
Upon the effectivity of the postponement law, the term of office of the present members of the BARMM Transition Authority (BTA) shall be deemed expired. President Marcos would then appoint 80 BTA members who will serve until their successors have been elected and qualified.
The BARMM government will disburse the share of the province of Sulu from the annual block grant from the national government for its programs in 2025.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec), through the Bangsamoro Electoral Office, is mandated to promulgate rules and regulations for the conduct of the elections, and enforce and administer them pursuant to national laws, the BARMM organic law and the Bangsamoro Electoral Code.
BAMBOO FESTIVAL. Maragondon, Cavite students dressed in colorful costumes put their best foot forward during the 8th Kawayan Festival street dancing competition in celebration of the town’s 297th founding anniversary. Dennis Abrina
OPINION
Diyos Co-Poe !
WHAT have you done? The Bicam chaired by Co and Poe “labored,” left their TWGs (technical working groups) to stay awake overnight and craft what is to be submitted to the President as the 2025 national budget.
Congress is mandated by the Constitution to review the National Expenditure Program submitted to it by the President each year.
That NEP, also called “the president’s budget,” is the result of submissions by the different departments of the executive branch after a budget call of the DBM.
The Development Budget Coordinating Committee composed of the economic managers review the DBMconsolidated proposals after a thorough perusal of “expected” revenues versus “necessary” expenditures.
Some observers have noted that the DBM’s role has been “influenced” by certain “smart” operators from Congress who, on account of the Supreme Court’s decision outlawing lump sum “pork barrel,” already submit their “built-in” slabs of fat to DBM ahead of the crafting of the President’s budget, with the department heads having been co-opted.
As we used to say in the seventies, “ayos na ang buto-buto”.
The Constitution assigned to the HoR the initial review of the NEP, which in the present case, was “rushed,” often without reading, maybe because the QuadComm and the Chua-headed accountability committee had to undertake a more important mission, which is to “slaughter” a powerful rival dynasty in Southern Philippines.
Dutifully, the most important aspect of the HoR’s submission to the Senate this year was slashing the presidentiallyapproved OVP budget from 2 billion to a mere 733 million.
So from Elizaldy Co, the powerful Chair of the Appropriations Committee in the HoR, the proposed 2025 budget was submitted to Grace Poe, the newlycrowned Chair of the Senate Finance Committee.
Despite ministrations of a significant number of fellow senators, the Poe-led committee decided to maintain the HoR “katay” of the OVP budget.
Since the House version was not totally acceptable to the Poe-led committee, especially because in the 2023 budget, the Co-led House counterpart in what is called the third chamber of Congress “sneaked” more pork fat like a “thief in the night,” principally the AKAP ayuda solely for HoR use, the senators made noises about “abolishing” AKAP.
Thus, the Poe-led delegation to the bicameral conference committee had a mandate to lop off AKAP from the ayuda menu of the Ayuda Republic. The senators even announced that, this year, the bicam would be more transparent, the deliberations “televised” even. Alas, that was just for show! They smiled before the cameras at the opening, and that was it. Lo and behold, AKAP was not abol-
ished. What happened was that the Senate got 5 billion and the HoR got 21 billion in AKAP ayuda for the “nearly poor,” howsoever they define that. Hating “kapatid” for 2025 plus “bayad-utang” for not having any in 2024.
Bicam’s in the yet “august” and forgotten yesteryears did what our teachers called “Cut and Paste” --- snip a little here, transfer a little there.
But in the case of the Co-Poe bicam last week, it wasn’t just cut and paste. It became huge chunks butchered off needed social services and lumped into the DPWH, the old repository of “hard fat,” like Baliwag in Bulacan and Carcar in Cebu transform into chicharon.
No wonder UP Prof. Cielo Magno, the former undersecretary of the former secretary of Finance, calls the 2025 budget the ‘most corrupt in our history’
But wait! Didn’t the Supreme Court declare pork barrel allocations “unconstitutional” for violating separation of powers, undue delegation of legislative power, etc. in its landmark Belgica vs. Ochoa ruling?
The “legal” though immoral way was to identify the pork and itemize these as early as in the NEP, or through identified amendments in the line agency budgets, which neither the HoR under Co nor the Senate under Poe failed to do, perhaps due to lack of material time.
Bahala na si Batman, este, si Bicam ni Co-Poe. Let them do the magic.
And so this Bicam mountain heaved and labored and brought forth not a mouse, but a hog monstrosity with a belly so huge its legs could hardly support its fat-laden liempo.
Now the poor TWG staff of the bicam, as agreed upon by their leadership, are frenziedly “itemizing” the interstices of fat in the new DPWH super-budget.
Frenziedly. too, are the hurried requests of the “representatives of the people,” whose “contractors,” many their own companies, would have to agree to the 30-40 percent of “E-di” (ako) and “Pa-ti” (ako).
And there is a deadline, now adjusted till Dec. 31 at the latest for the President’s signature.
No wonder UP Prof. Cielo Magno, the former undersecretary of the former secretary of Finance, calls the 2025 budget the “most corrupt in our history.”
Diyos Co-Poe ! This will be my last column article for the year, as I need to rest wearied soul battered by the crazy political strife of the benighted nation. I will resume next year and my first column will be titled “Hopeless.”
part of their Christmas holidays. Partly because to many Filipinos who cannot afford or unable to travel overseas to experience winter weather, Baguio remains the closest thing to a “White Christmas” due to the colder temperature in the City this time of the year.
Many of the local business establishments in fact realize this and are adjusting to offer more services and products match the season’s spirit.
The never ending constructions of multi-level buildings to cater to the ever increasing number of local tourists visiting the City all year round is proof of this. Many restaurants have also sprouted all over the City offering different cuisines like Greek, Indian and Japanese to name a few.
The only drawback to all these if one can call it that is the traffic especially around the Mansion House area.
This presents a big challenge to the local government to come up with the comprehensive program by partnering
with the private businesses so that traffic flow can be better managed and made more efficient.
The traditional tourist sites that people would normally visit must, therefore, be improved and redeveloped to give the tourists their money’s worth.
The only drawback to all these if one can call it that is the traffic especially around the Mansion House area
A couple of months ago, the First Lady opened the Mansion House to the public by transforming it into a museum.
The Mansion has a lot of history associated with the American colonial period. Baguio was the only City built from scratch by the Americans and a visit to
EDITORIAL
Closer to peace in Southern Philippines
THE good news from our southern shores is that the comprehensive peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front is proceeding according to plan—and, apparently, working well.
Ample proof of this is the recent announcement by the MILF that more than half of its fighters have already decommissioned.
That’s according to Mohagher Iqbal, a former top leader of the rebel group and now a member of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.
Iqbal disclosed recently that 26,145 MILF fighters have already been disbanded, leaving only about 14,000 active fighters.
The former MILF fighters are entitled to P950,000 worth of compensation, including P650,000 for housing, P100,000 cash assistance, and the rest for other assistance like PhilHealth and scholarships.
So far, all 26,145 decommissioned fighters have received the P100,000 cash aid. Meanwhile, only about 2,000 firearms have yet to be decommissioned.
The former MILF fighters are also eligible for amnesty, but no amnesty petition has been granted so far.
According to Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Office of the
the Mansion now would be all worth it.
I hope the First Lady would also take back the original building where the American Commission used to hold their summer sessions to escape the summer heat in Manila to save one of the few remaining wooden heritage buildings built by the Americans together with the Baguio post office.
The building to which Session Road was named in a few years will be gone if nothing is done to save it. This is because when the property was given to the Boys Scouts of the Philippines, it was turned into a bed and breakfast facility. Today, it could hardly be recognized due to the many buildings attached to it and it is crumbling.
The Baguio Post Office in front of the Baguio Cathedral is also hardly recognizable. Built in 1933, it is the only public
Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), they are targeting to decommission all MILF fighters before the firstever parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARRM) in 2025.
BARMM represents a new beginning for Muslim Mindanao that inspires new hope for lasting peace and sustained socioeconomic development for all Muslim Filipinos
The decommissioning process is part of the comprehensive peace agreement that the MILF signed with the government in March 2014. This peace agreement paved the way for the creation of BARRM that nows stand as the embodiment
building constructed in cement standing but, due to the many stalls attached to the building, it has been so deformed and badly in need of protection.
The other building still standing nearby is the Vallejo Hotel which was constructed in 1911. Because it has always been privately owned and managed, it looks basically the same as when it was originally built. Many buildings of Brent School are also still original especially the administrative building and also worth a visit.
But we cannot say the same thing with Camp John Hay. In fact, one of the first buildings constructed in CJH at the turn of the 20th century was the Igorot Lodge.
Originally the mess hall was built and then the dispensary was demolished and in its place is now a big multi-level Hotel being constructed. My bet is that very
of the goal of self-rule by Muslim Filipinos.
Mindanao has not known peace since armed conflict erupted in the early 1970s between government forces and Muslim rebels demanding separation from the national government for its neglect of Muslim Mindanao and pervasive poverty in the region.
The armed rebellion by the Moro National Liberation Front started in the 1970s and resulted in thousands killed on both sides until the Tripoli Agreement of 1977 ended hostilities.
A breakaway group of the MNLF calling themselves the Moro Islamic Liberation Front resumed armed struggle on a separatist agenda, again leading to much violence and bloodshed until the two sides negotiated a peace deal 34 years later.
BARMM’s predecessor, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, was described by thenPresident Benigno Aquino III as a “failed experiment” because it failed to solve the problem of poverty and improve the lives of Muslim Filipinos.
BARMM, however, represents a new beginning for Muslim Mindanao that inspires new hope for lasting peace and sustained socioeconomic development for all Muslim Filipinos.
soon all the wooden structures there that are about a hundred years old will also be gone unless preserved. Some buildings in Teachers Camp are also more than a hundred years old but at the rate the reservation is being invaded by squatters that area will also soon end up as a squatter colony. There is a building very near Teachers Camp that used to be uninhabited and known as a haunted house.
Bought by one of our Filipino Chinese Taipans, it has been converted into a restaurant but to eat there, there is a price limit of what can be
Baguio
1st flight since Assad’s fall takes off
DAMASCUS – The first flight since the ouster of Syria’s president Bashar al-Assad took off on Wednesday from Damascus airport to Aleppo in the country’s north, AFP journalists saw.
Forty-three people including journalists were on board the plane. Assad fled Syria as a lightning rebel offensive wrested from his control city after city. His army and security forces abandoned Damascus airport on December 8. His overthrow brought to a stunning end five decades of rule by the Assad clan that was marked by fear and horrific abuses, but it also plunged Syria into the unknown.
Here are some of the latest key developments:
The military chief of HTS said the Islamist group would be “the first” to dissolve its armed wing and integrate into the armed forces.
“All military units must be integrated into this institution,” Murhaf Abu Qasra, known by his nom de guerre Abu Hassan al-Hamawi, said in an interview with AFP.
He added that Kurdish-held areas of Syria would be integrated under the country’s new leadership, adding that the group rejects federalism and that “Syria will not be divided”.
Abu Qasra also called on the international community to “find a solution” to repeated Israeli strikes and an “incursion” into Syrian territory.
“We view the Israeli strikes on military sites and the incursion into southern Syria as injust... we call on the international community to find a solution to this matter,” he said.
The first flight since Assad’s ouster took off on Wednesday from Damascus airport to Aleppo in the country’s north, AFP journalists saw.
Forty-three people including journalists were on board the Syrian Air plane. Assad’s army and security forces had abandoned Damascus airport on Dec. 8.
United Nations special envoy Geir
Pedersen warned that Syria’s protracted
conflict “has not ended yet” despite Assad’s overthrow, highlighting clashes between Turkish-backed and Kurdish groups in the north.
“There have been significant hostilities in the last two weeks, before a ceasefire was brokered... A five-day ceasefire has now expired and I am seriously concerned about reports of military escalation,” he said.
Shortly after Pedersen spoke, the Unit-
ed States announced it had brokered an extension of the ceasefire, to the end of the week.
The UN Security Council called for an “inclusive and Syrian-led” political process, in a press statement on Tuesday. It said such process “should meet the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians, protect all of them and enable them to peacefully, independently and democratically determine their own futures.” AFP
IN BRIEF
Russia detains suspect in general’s slay, say probers
MOSCOW
– Russia has detained a suspect in the killing of the head of the army’s chemical weapons division, investigators said Wednesday, a day after the general and his aide were killed by a blast in Moscow.
“A national of Uzbekistan, born in 1995, was arrested on suspicion of having committed the attack that cost the life of the commander of Russian radiological, chemical and biological defence forces, Igor Kirillov, and his assistant, Ilya Polikarpov”, the Investigative Committee said in a statement.
The man said he had been “recruited by Ukrainian special forces,” it added.
Kirillov and his assistant were killed on Tuesday as they walked out of a Moscow apartment building early in the morning, after an explosive device attached to a scooter went off.
The statement said that the suspect told interrogators that he had come to Moscow to carry out the attack and that a camera mounted on the dashboard of a rented car parked outside the building had filmed the attack and streamed it “live to the attack organizers, in the (Ukrainian) city of Dnipro”.
The man was promised $100,000 to carry out the attack, as well as the possibility to settle “in a European country”, the statement said.
Kirillov was the most senior military figure assassinated in Russia since Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine nearly three years ago. AFP
Japanese startup’s rocket launch ends up in failure in 2nd attempt by Space One
TOKYO – A space rocket built by a Japanese startup blasted off on Wednesday but was later seen spiralling downwards in the distance as the company said the launch had to be terminated.
It was the second attempt by Space One to become Japan’s first private firm to put a satellite into orbit after an initial try in March ended in a mid-air explosion.
Companies such as Space One want to offer cheaper and more frequent space exploration opportunities than governments.
The startup is hoping to establish a satellite-launching service to tap into expanding global demand -- emulating Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which has contracts with NASA and the Pentagon.
“We do not regard this event as a failure,” Space One president Masakazu Toyoda told reporters.
“We believe that the data and experience gained... is extremely valuable and we think they will be useful for the next challenge,” he said.
Company director Mamoru Endo said a glitch 80 seconds after lift-off had affected the altitude of the solid-fuel Kairos rocket.
“Our data shows that the rocket was flying in a western direction instead of the originally planned southern direction,” Endo said, and it was not able to get the rocket back on course.
Space One said it hopes to launch a third Kairos rocket as soon as possible but did not give specific dates.
Spectators, gathered near the company’s coastal Spaceport Kii launch pad in Japan’s rural western Wakayama region, expressed their disappointment to television cameras. AFP
Rescuers hunt for survivors in Vanuatu earthquake, 9 dead
PORT VILA, Vanuatu – Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides.
People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone.
“We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it,” he said.
About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, “just everything we can get our hands on”.
When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said.
“There’s tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down,” he said. “Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void.” AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble
from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu’s main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday. It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire.
A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation. Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency “due to the severe impacts”, along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am. AFP
Spain PM’s wife in court in week of legal woes for gov’t
MADRID – Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s wife Begona Gomez was scheduled to appear appears in court Wednesday for alleged misappropriation, in one of several sensitive legal cases undermining the minority left-wing government.
Gomez’s appearance at a Madrid court comes during a frenzied week of legal activity in connection with cases that have ensnared Sanchez’s inner circle and emboldened the conservative opposition.
Judge Juan Carlos Peinado summoned Gomez after accepting complaints alleging misappropriation and illegal practice of a profession submitted by a group with far-right ties, “Hazte Oir” (“Make Your Voice Heard”). Gomez is suspected of illegally appropriating software financed by private companies and initially intended for Madrid’s Complutense University while she worked there.
Peinado launched an investigation against Gomez in April for alleged cor-
ruption and influence peddling after Hazte Oir and another group with farright connections accused her of exploiting her position as Sanchez’s wife in her business circles.
During an appearance before the conservative-controlled Madrid regional parliament in November, Gomez dismissed the corruption allegations against her as politically motivated. AFP
SEOUL – South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol failed to appear before the country’s corruption watchdog on Wednesday, it said, after he was summoned for questioning over his martial law bid.
Yoon was stripped of his duties by parliament over the weekend following his short-lived Dec. 3 martial law declaration, which plunged the country into its worst political turmoil in decades. Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office had summoned him to their facility in suburban Seoul at 10:00 am for questioning over charges of insurrection and abuse of power.
“President Yoon did not appear for his summons today,” a CIO official told AFP. Yoon’s legal team said Tuesday he did not commit insurrection and has vowed to fight the charge in court, according to Yonhap news agency. AFP
Yoon fails to appear before investigators Iran executes man for attacks on women
TEHRAN – Iranian authorities executed on Wednesday a man convicted of “corruption of earth” for attacking dozens of women on the capital’s streets, the judiciary said.
Rastgooei Kandolaj has attacked at least 59 women using an awl, causing injuries and sowing “terror in Tehran”, the judiciary’s Mizen Online news website said.
Multiple women had reported that the assailant was was riding a motorcycle when he carried out the attacks, Mizan said.
The report did not specify when Kandolaj was arrested. He was handed down a death sentence after being convicted of the capital offence “corruption on earth”, Mizan said.
“The death sentence of... Rastgooei Kandolaj, who injured women and girls with an awl and created terror in Tehran, was carried out,” it said.
Iran uses capital punishment for major crimes including murder and drug trafficking, as well as rape and sexual assault. AFP
Malaysia FM to be fined for smoking at eatery
KUALA LUMPUR --Malaysia’s foreign minister will be issued a fine for puffing a cigarette in a non-smoking area, the country’s health minister said Wednesday. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad earlier this week reposted a photo of Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan smoking at a street-side eatery in the Malaysian state of Negeri Sembilan.
Smoking in all eateries and restaurants was declared illegal in Malaysia in 2019 and further strict measures were introduced in October this year.
“The Foreign Minister’s office has been informed of this matter,” Dzulkefly said on social media platform X on Wednesday, adding that the foreign minister himself wanted to be issued a fine for the offence. Under Malaysian law, people caught smoking in prohibited areas can face a fine of up to 5,000
THERE THE SUSPECT IS. A truck parks on Wednesday (Manila time) outside of State Correctional Institution Huntingdon where Luigi Mangione, the suspect in United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s death, is being held, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. The police believe Mangione, 26, is the masked gunman who calmly took out a pistol equipped with a suppressor on a Midtown Manhattan street last week and assassinated Brian Thompson, the chief executive of UnitedHealthcare. AFP
FIRST FLIGHT. Pilots sit at the cockpit of a Syrian Air aircraft at Damascus international airport before a flight to the city of Aleppo, on Wednesday. The first flight since the ouster of Syria’s president Bashar al-Assad took off from Damascus airport to Aleppo in the country’s north, AFP journalists saw. Thirty-two people including journalists were on board the plane. Assad fled Syria as a lightning rebel offensive wrested from his control city after city. His army and security forces abandoned Damascus airport on Dec. 8. AFP
LIVESTOCK GRAZE. Cattle are seen ednesday (Manila time) grazing near I-95 in Coalinga, California. Livestock experts say cattle grazing in the state is significant because they help reduce the amount of fine fuels on rangelands, which can lead to smaller and less severe fires. AFP
Rodtang vows to be ready for Takeru this time
FIGHT fans might be a bit concerned when it comes to how Thai megastar Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmunagnon will show up for his super-fight with Japanese kickboxing sensation Takeru “The Natural Born Crusher” Segawa. The pair will lock horns in a five-round kickboxing battle in the main event of ONE 172 on March 23, 2025, in ONE Championship’s return to Japan inside the 37,000-seat Saitama Super Arena.
Rodtang has been criticized for his struggles to make weight and sudden pullouts, and he can’t blame fans for worrying as he pulled out of his original fight with Takeru in January. But now, Rodtang promises to be at his best – from preparation to the actual fight.
“For Takeru, who has been waiting to fight me and for the fans who have been waiting for this match for over a year, of course, this time I will not disappoint
Milwaukee banks on Giannis’ triple-double to win NBA Cup
LOS ANGELES—Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks silenced the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half to win the second edition of the NBA Cup with a 97-81 victory in Las Vegas on Tuesday.
Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo delivered a tripledouble of 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists along with two steals and three blocked shots for the Bucks, who drilled 17 three-pointers to complete an unbeaten run and follow in the footsteps of the Los Angeles Lakers as inseason tournament champions.
Damian Lillard scored 23 points for the Bucks, who held the potentially explosive Thunder offense to 31 points in the second half.
“That’s who we are,” Antetokounmpo said of the Bucks’ second-half dominance, which saw them push a one-point lead at halftime to as many as 20.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 21 points, but he connected on just eight of his 24 shots from the field, two of nine from threepoint range.
The triumph was a vindication for the Bucks, who were stung by the Indiana Pacers in last year’s Cup semi-finals.
They were the only team from last season’s semis to make it back to the final four in Vegas, beating the Orlando Magic in the quarter-finals and dispatching Atlanta in the semis.
Their Cup success has been part of a massive turnaround after a dismal 2-8 start to the season.
They have now won 13 of their last 16 games, and Antetokounmpo, who led the
Bucks to the 2021 NBA title, indicated he considered it only a stepping stone.
“It’s great for our team,” said Antetokounmpo, who was named MVP of the tournament. “The last 15 games we’ve played, we’ve competed. We’ve played team basketball.
“I’m so proud of this group,” he added “Coming out of halftime we know we have 24 minutes to go, we came out in the third quarter, we set the tone. We played great team basketball.” ‘Not done’
The Bucks held the Thunder to just 14 points in the third quarter—their lowest points total in a period this season.
“Most importantly we are competing defensively,” Antetokounmpo said. “That’s who we are. That’s who we’re going to continue to be -- and the job’s not done.”
Unlike the rest of the Cup matches, the final does not count toward the regular-season record, nor do the players’ performances count in their career stats. AFP
‘8 not enough’ as HD Spikers aim for more Spikers’ Turf glory
FOR Cignal coach Dexter Clamor, eight championships are just the beginning. As the Spikers’ Turf Invitational title celebrations echoed last Sunday, Clamor sent a strong warning to those who dare challenge their reign – the dynasty is far from over.
“Tonight, we’ll celebrate,” Clamor said with well-earned pride after the HD Spikers drubbed the Criss Cross King Crunchers in three in their winner-take-all match and completed a dominant season sweep and clinched their eighth overall championship.
“But for the next conference, paghahandaan namin uli. We will work harder kasi marami pa rin kaming lapses na kailangan trabahuhin. Hindi kami titigil at magsasawang manalo at mag-champion ng mag-champion (We will prepare again. We will work harder because there are still lapses we need to address. We will not stop. We will never get tired of winning and becoming champions over and over again),” he said. Winning has been synonymous with the HD Spikers. Over the years, the franchise has established itself
as the gold standard of excellence in men’s volleyball. Anchored on discipline, teamwork and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Cignal has built a culture of sustained success unmatched in the sport.
That winning tradition is not simply about having the best talents but molding them into champions.
Clamor, who took the reins with a clear vision, exemplifies that mindset. He credits the squad’s victory to their collective effort: “Pinaghirapan ng lahat itong championship.
Hindi lang isang tao o dalawa. Whole team ang nag-sacrifice, nag-aral, at nagbigay ng higit pa sa 100 percent (Everyone worked hard for this championship. It wasn’t just one or two people. The whole team sacrificed, studied, and gave more than 100 percent).”
From their thrilling Open Conference conquest last May to this latest Invitational sweep, Cignal’s dominance has been on full display. Whether facing upstart contenders like the Savouge Spin Doctors or arch rival the Criss Cross King Crunchers, the HD Spikers have proven their ability to rise under pressure. While fans may see only trophies, Cignal’s path to victory has been anything but easy.
everyone,” Rodtang said at the ONE 172 press conference on Monday.
“I will do my best to be as ready as possible to face Takeru that day. I swear that there will be no injuries or withdrawals again.”
The charismatic Thai believes this fight is going to be a mustsee, owing to his and Takeru’s styles, styles that have made them fan favorites from the get-go.
Like Rodtang, Takeru likes to bring the fight to his opponents, he’s very durable, and he’s got the heart to turn things around from precarious moments. He did just that in his fight against Thant Zin, where he bounced back from a first-round knockdown.
That’s why Rodtang is excited to face Takeru, not only to defend his stature in ONE, but for all the fans who’ve long waited for this match to happen.
LOS ANGELES—Top-ranked Scottie Scheffler and thirdranked Rory McIlroy combined to give the PGA Tour a 2.5-0.5 victory over LIV Golf’s Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau in Tuesday’s Showdown match-play exhibition.
The PGA pair captured the $10 million top prize and tour bragging rights over the Saudi-backed upstart circuit in the four-man event at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas.
“We’re super happy to get the win. It’s a nice way to finish the year,” McIlroy said. “Scottie and I got off to a pretty good start and then from there it was just about trying to keep the momentum.”
The event, played mostly after dark under special lighting, pitted fourtime major winner McIlroy and twotime Masters champion Scheffler against five-time major winner Koepka and two-time US Open champion DeChambeau.
“Under the lights was fun,” Scheffler said. “It was really challenging.”
The Showdown joined the majors as one of the few places where top players from the rival tours tested each other since the start of LIV, whose Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund backers remain in talks with the PGA about reuniting.
“It was great. I’d love to have another opportunity. Felt like it was a pillow fight from us,” DeChambeau said.
“It’s good for the fans,” added Koepka. “We didn’t play that good but they played really solid.”
The Showdown featured a bestball format for the duos on the first six holes, an alternate shot format on the second six and a singles format over holes 13 to 18 with McIlroy facing DeChambeau and Koepka against Scheffler for one point each.
Northern Ireland’s McIlroy, who last month captured his sixth Race to Dubai crown on the DP World Tour, won
PH Inter-School Sport Association announces 2025 activities
By Graham C. Lim
PHILIPPINE Inter-School Sport Association (PISSA) president Mary G. Ng recently presented her organization’s programs and activities, which include various national tournaments and international competitions.
The PISSA is a national school federation in the Philippines recognized by the International School Sport Federation (ISF), which in turn is affiliated with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Preparations are underway for the country’s participation in the coming ISF Gymnasiade 2025, also known as the World School Games for athletes aged 15 and under, to be held in Serbia from April 4 to 14, 2025.
The PISSA Executive Board, which is also
headed by Ng, will soon determine the two sportsmen, who will act as the Philippine head of delegation and the flag bearer to the World School Games in Serbia.
Assisted by Deputy President David Ong, Ng has started preparations for the national qualifying tournaments in the multiple sports events that the Philippines will be taking part of in the ISF World Games. Initially, the PISSA will field entries in archery, basketball 3x3, judo, orienteering and table tennis.
Members of the PISSA Executive Board are Christian Tan (Senior Vice President), Joseph Sy (Secretary General), Cecil Sarmiento (Treasurer), Chester Lim (Director), Carlito Fermanes (Director), and Ricky Chua (Director). Technical members are Albert Andaya, Romulo Raytos,
and
ganized by the PISSA annually. Among them are the PISSA Juniors Basketball Championship and the PISSA Juniors Volleyball Championship, staged in partnership with the Senior High School membership schools belonging to the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP), led by its president Edwin C. Fabro, and FESSAP Chairman of the Board Alvin Tai Lian. The FESSAP regulates multiple leagues such as the Philippine University Archery League (PUAL), Philippine University Basketball League (PUBL), and the Philippine Wushu Colleges and Clubs Association (PWCCA) tournament, whose competitions are aligned with the PISSA program to help uplift Philippine sports nationwide at the university and college level.
SMART 5G TECH FOR ESPORTS. Members of the Smart Omega E-Sports team face their fans in an exhibition match during the Smart 5G Max Experience event held on December 14, 2024, at the 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. Renowned for its strategic gameplay and talented roster, Smart Omega Esports is one of the Philippines’ top teams in Mobile Legends tournaments such as MPL PH. The event also showcased the capabilities of Smart 5G technology, offering lightningfast speeds, ultra-low latency, expanded bandwidth, and improved service quality for seamless gaming and connectivity.
Rodtang ‘The Iron Man’ Jitmunagnon
Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Cignal HD Spikers celebrate their finals’ win.
Edwin C. Fabro Edwin Co,
Wilson Guevarra. Various national tournaments have been or-
Mary G. Ng
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19,
RIERA
RANDY
Yulo’s sibling Karl Eldrew bags 8 golds in HK meet
By Randy Caluag
KARL Eldrew Yulo has joked about being better than his older brother, Olympic double-gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
And someday, it could be true.
“Mas magaling ako dun (Carlos),” he once told a small group of writers during an out-of-town meet not long ago. His recent accomplishments make it clear that he may not be far off as the younger Yulo is rapidly becoming a rising star for the Philippine men’s national gymnastics team. He swept all individual accolades in a prestigious competition in Hong Kong, capturing the gold medal in the men’s individual allaround by excelling in all six apparatuses: vault, floor exercise, parallel bars, horizontal bars, still rings,
and pommel horse, in the junior men’s division. Karl also secured an eighth gold medal in the team event at the Chiu Wai Chung Cup, teaming up with Hillarion III Palles, King Cjay Pernia, and Marc Nathan Ayson to help cement the Philippines’ dominance as the national team gears up for its evaluation starting Thursday.
Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion led the group of young gymnasts poised to dominate the sport in the coming years.
THE two parties inked separate agreements for the upgrade of facilities in the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City and the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) in Manila, respectively, spearheaded by PSC chairman Richard Bachmann, Executive Director Paulo Francisco Tatad, and Accounting Division
Chief Atty. Erik Jean Mayores.
MELBOURNE—Australian
tennis great Neale Fraser was honoured with a state funeral on Wednesday with Roger Federer among those paying tribute to “a true legend”.
Fraser, a former world number one and winner of 19 Grand Slam titles during the amateur era, died aged 91 earlier this month.
Australian former tennis players Lleyton Hewitt, Todd Woodbridge and John Fitzgerald were among the mourners at a service at Melbourne’s St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Fitzgerald read out a letter from Swiss legend Federer to Fraser’s widow Thea, local media reported.
“I’m deeply saddened to hear of Neale’s passing... he was a true legend,” Federer wrote.
“I always enjoyed his company when we met around the world.”
Fraser won three major singles titles, including a memorable Wimbledon final in 1960 when he beat Rod Laver, and 16 Grand Slam doubles crowns.
Speaking soon after his death, Laver called him “my dear mate” and “a true gem in a golden era of Australian tennis legends”.
In 1959 Fraser won all three US titles—singles, doubles and mixed—at Forest Hills and led Australia to glory in the Davis Cup, a competition he became synonymous with.
He captained the team for 24 years, steering them to four tournament wins, often saying: “I could never think of anything better than representing your country.” AFP
This ensures the upgrade of dormitory facilities at the PhilSports Complex, where several national athletes train, serving as a counterpart for the RMSC’s seven-storey athletes’ dormitory which held its groundbreaking last September.
“We always want to give what is best when it comes to the primary needs of the athletes. This is one of the significant steps to ensure that they remain safe and at peace, day in or day out of their training sessions on a long-term basis,” Bachmann said.
Over at the RMSC, retrofitting of the Baseball Stadium is currently ongoing in accordance with international standards. This will include a covered roofing and an improved grandstand or spectators’ area, providing an outstanding atmosphere for audiences, a high-resolution LED scoreboard, and protective netting and stainless-steel railings with glass.
Archers begin life without Quiambao
By Peter Atencio
WITH Kevin Quiambao’s La Salle
stint over, the Green Archers are now looking forward at the prospect of rebuilding their team.
This is the immediate task at hand for coach Topex Robinson after his Archers lost their crown to the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons in the recent 87th University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball tournament.
New players who have been recruited in the past year will soon get ready for the next season, according to Robinson.
“The next two weeks will be a preparation for Season 88 for us and we’re excited about it. Sabi ko nga as long as we know in our heart of hearts that we give our best, we have nothing to be ashamed of. We played it until the final buzzer, we did it as a true La Sallian should do it. We just kept on fighting,” said Robinson.
“It was an epic game. It went down to the last few possessions again,” said Robinson, hours after the Fighting Maroons dethroned Green Archers, 66-62, in Game 3 of their championship duel at the Araneta Coliseum.
Four players who were taken in during the off-season are getting ready to show what they can do -- Kean Baclaan, Jacob Cortez, Luis Pablo and Mason Amos.
A two-time Siklab Youth Sports Awardee, Karl contributed over half of the 14 gold medals won by the Filipino delegation in the four-nation competition, which featured top-tier gymnasts from Chinese Taipei, China, and host Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Juancho Miguel Besana took the spotlight in the senior division, earning three gold medals in the floor exercise, pommel horse, and individual allaround, further solidifying the Philippine contingent’s strong performance.
With his collegiate stint over, Quiambao, who ended the season with his second MVP title, is set to leave for Korea to join former teammate Carl Tamayo with the Goyong Sono Skygunners.
So far, 10 players are set to play in in the Korean Basketball League, including Season 87 Finals MVP Joel Cagulangan of the UAAP champion University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.
Cagulangan reportedly signed up Suwon KT Sonicboom right after the Maroons won their crown in the UAAP.
Karl Eldrew Yulo proves he’s more than just Carlos’ younger brother with a haul of eight golds in the Chiu Wai Chung Cup.
Other soon-to-rise facilities are the 12-storey multi-purpose facility adjacent to the Ninoy Aquino Stadium featuring a modernized bowling facility, the re-development of the Philippine Sports Museum, and the rehabilitation of the sports agency’s Administrative Building.
Shown here are (from left) PSC Engineering and Maintenance O ce Head Engr. Maria Victoria T. Moya, Sports Facilities Division Acting Chief Julia G. Llanto, Executive Director Paulo Francisco C. Tatad, Accounting Division Chief Atty. Erik
Jean Mayores, PSC chairman Richard E. Bachmann, DPWH - NCR Regional Director Engr. Loreta M. Malaluan, DPWHSMDE OIC Engr. Manny B. Bulasan, MM1DEO Asst. District Engineer Engr. Lamberto C. De Leon and DPWH - SMDE OIC Asst. District Engineer Engr. Brian B. Briones.
Beko supports the Pawikan Conservation Center
Some of the newly hatched baby marine turtles
Average inflation in 11 months of 2024
3.2% 6.0% 5.7%
Average inflation in 2023
Fitch’s 2024 growth forecast for PH
Gov’t accredits 34 Indian buffalo meat suppliers
DEPARTMENT of Agriculture (DA)
Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said Wednesday the agency approved the accreditation of 34 Indian companies to supply frozen buffalo meat, locally known as carabeef.
The DA is looking at expanding sourcing options for Philippine food processors and potentially lowering consumer costs for products such as corned beef.
“Our goal is not to increase imports but to encourage competition among foreign suppliers. This will drive down the cost of imported agricultural products, benefiting Filipino consumers,” Tiu Laurel said.
The newly accredited companies include six exporters initially approved in 2019, with accreditation valid until Dec. 12, 2027.
The DA confirmed that all companies passed rigorous inspections conducted by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS).
It said 13 of the 34 companies, operating in Maharashtra, Telangana and Bihar, were barred from exporting due to active foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in these states. Tiu Laurel assured the public that carabeef imports from these regions would remain prohibited until India’s National Competent Authority declares them FMD-free.
The DA said it is open to exploring new import processes to address FMD risks. Othel V. Campos
Fitch lauds sound BSP policy to curb inflation
By Darwin G. Amojelar
CREDIT
rating
agency Fitch Ratings recognized the sound monetary policy in curbing inflation in the Philippines.
Inflation, which averaged 6 percent in 2023, slowed down to 3.2 percent in the first eleven months of 2024. This was attributed to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) decisive action, including three interest rate
hikes totaling 100 basis points last year, culminating in an off-cycle increase in October 2023.
Since then, inflation has eased, settling at 2.5 percent in November this year. Amid a more favorable inflation environment, the BSP cut interest rates in August and October this year, each by 25 basis points, providing support to economic growth.
Fitch said it expects the Philippine economic growth to accelerate to 5.7 percent this year, 5.9 percent next year and 6.2 percent in 2026.
Meantime, the BSP said it is enhancing the transmission of
monetary policy in part by promoting capital market development.
The BSP said it collaborated with the banking industry to launch the Peso Interest Rate Swaps (Peso IRS). These and other initiatives of the BSP, the government and the banking industry aim to boost trading and liquidity of local bonds and other instruments and make them more accessible not just to local but overseas investors as well.
Fitch’s latest report follows S&P’s revision of its outlook on the Philippines BBB+ rating to positive in November and R&I upgrade of the country’s rating to A- in August.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
A CONSUMER rights advocate called on the Senate to amend key provisions in the proposed measure to renew the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) franchise to protect consumers from further power rate hikes.
Consumer rights advocate Romeo Junia said in a letter to Senate President Francis Escudero and other senators that the Meralco franchise renewal bill, if not amended, “will simply continue Meralco’s ability to abuse its dominant position as the
largest distribution utility and energy player in the country.”
Meralco had yet to issue its response to the statement as this was being written.
“The Philippines will not only maintain its dubious record of having the highest electricity costs in Southeast Asia; power costs will likely increase even further if nothing is done to curtail Meralco’s apparent abuse of market power. The franchise renewal represents a very rare occasion where Congress can put limits on Meralco’s power,” Junia said.
THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a warning to Angkas, after the ride-hailing platform allegedly onboarded driver partners lacking a professional driver’s license.
“There are accounts that right after the Senate hearing the non pro drivers were immediately removed from the platform which is a very serious accusation. The number one requirement under the law if you will be allowed to operate PUV must be pro license,” LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said, referring to reports that Angkas drivers with no professional driver’s license were removed from the platform.
Approved House Bill 10926 seeks to renew the 25-year franchise of Meralco, granting it to maintain its electric distribution systems in all of Metro Manila and nearby provinces, which account for more than 70 percent of the Philippine economy. The counterpart bill is pending at the Senate. Junia cited reforms and improvements in the energy sector through passed laws and pending legislation such as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 and the proposed Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act.
The LTFRB’s pilot program for motorcycle taxis mandates professional driver’s licenses for riders to ensure safety and compliance with public transport standards.
“If a TNC [transportation network company] or PUV [public utility vehicle] company allows a non pro driver to use these cars in ferrying passengers, that’s a ground for a possible suspension or revocation of their franchise,” Guadiz said.
“It is prohibited because it’s a safety issue. We’re investigating that. We are taking the accounts who were off board. If can just get one to execute a written statement, that is sufficient enough to suspend the TNC,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar
DA in talks with Pakistan, India for 2m tons of imported rice
By Othel V. Campos DEPARTMENT of Agriculture
Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said Wednesday the agency is in discussions with envoys from Pakistan and India to secure commitments for a combined 2 million metric tons (MT) of rice, ensuring the Philippines can meet its import needs if required.
Tiu Laurel said talks with Pakistan were nearing completion, with a memorandum of understanding expected to allocate up to 1 million MT of rice annually—equivalent to 25 percent of the Philippines’ rice import requirement. Similar negotiations with India are ongoing, he said.
“The intention is to create a level playing field among our rice supplying nations,” Tiu Laurel said during a consultation meeting with rice traders at the Intercity Industrial Estate in Bocaue, Bulacan.
“We want them to compete for our market,” he said during a consultation with rice traders at the Intercity Industrial Estate in Bulacan.
The initiative supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s strategy to diversify rice sources and reduce costs for consumers.
While Vietnam remains the Philippines’ top supplier, with its commitment to a five-year rice quota of 1.5 to 2 million metric tons, broadening partnerships is seen as a way to stabilize supply and pricing.
Intercity rice traders pledged during the consultation in Bocaue their support for the DA’s Ricefor-All program.
They committed to selling rice at P40 per kilo through the KADIWA ng Pangulo initiative. Their commitment will help the DA reach its target of 300 KADIWA kiosks offering affordable rice in public markets and transport hubs by mid-January.
Tiu Laurel underscored the DA’s collaboration with rice traders and international suppliers as essential to ensuring food security and affordability.
By Othel V. Campos
TOYOTA Motor Philippines Corp.
(TMPC) expects its auto parts export sales to hit $1.21 billion by end-2024, with a further increase to $1.28 billion in 2025, an executive said.
TMPC president Masando Hashimoto shared the forecast during a meeting with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and Toyota Group export suppliers, highlighting the company’s robust export performance.
TMPC accounted for 30 percent of the country’s auto parts exports in 2023, contributing $665 million—a significant boost to the Philippines’ automotive export sector.
As part of its localization strategy, TMPC is ramping up the production of auto parts for export to strengthen the domestic automotive supply chain and maintain global competitiveness.
To support this initiative, TMPC spearheads the Toyota Supplier Club (TSC), which now boasts of 106 members.
The TSC focuses on improving efficiency and productivity, while fostering collaboration, corporate social responsibility, and innovation within the Toyota network.
TMPC also provides suppliers with technical engineering assistance, encouraging partnerships and technology-sharing ventures with foreign experts.
Ayala taps ING for P3.1-b loan to fund health projects
By Jenniffer B. Austria
ONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. said Wednesday it obtained a 50-million-euro (P3.1 billion) social loan from European bank ING to finance healthcare projects of unit AC Healthcare Holdings Inc. (AC Health).
Ayala said in a statement the proceeds from the social loan are allocated to AC Health portfolio growth and capital expenditures for retail pharmacy and hospital, including QualiMed and Joseph Drug. The conglomerate said the loan
would enable AC Health’s integrated healthcare ecosystem to continue providing accessible, affordable and quality healthcare to all Filipinos.
“This social loan from ING will enable us not only to build and scale our AC Health portfolio, but it will also
enable us to serve more Filipinos by providing them access to quality and affordable healthcare,” said Ayala chief finance officer Albert de Larrazabal.
“At Ayala, we always look for likeminded partners who believe in our purpose. This sustainable finance transaction from ING confirms our commitment to building businesses that enable people to thrive,” he said.
The loan is the first euro-denominated social loan that ING structured for a Philippine conglomerate. It is structured with adherence to the latest Social Loan Principles published by the Loan Market Association, Asia Pacific Loan Market Association and the Loan Syndications &
Trading Association, paving the way for other foreign banks, including European banking institutions, to come in and participate in financing the growth of sustainable projects in the Philippines.
“As a global bank with deep expertise in sustainable finance, we are proud to play a crucial role in enabling Ayala to address pressing challenges in the healthcare sector. This social loan marks an important milestone for ING and our partnership with the Ayala Corp. ING’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond financing; it is about empowering businesses to drive meaningful, longterm impact,” ING Philippines country managerJun Palanca said.
THE Philippine stock market continued its downward streak, following regional decline, on heavy foreign selling ahead of the central banks’ policy meetings.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index dropped 32.63 points, or 0.50 percent, to close at 6,469.08, while the allshares index also went down by 10.21 points, or 0.28 percent, to settle at 3,700. This marked the market’s sixth straight day of decline.
“Philippine shares continued to drop ahead of FOMC [Federal Open Market Committee] meeting and following the sentiment of regional markets,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.
The peso also tumbled to 58.99 against the US dollar Wednesday from 58.87 Tuesday, on anticipation the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas would cut its policy rates again.
Analysts said heavy foreign selling contributed to the stock market’s decline. Foreign investors are re-channeling their funds ahead of US Federal Reserve’s meeting. Foreign selling amounted to P487.26 million.
Value turnover reached P4.35 billion, below the yearto-date average of P5.17 billion. There were 83 advancers
NO PROPERTY developer will concede that a real estate bubble is about to occur in the Philippines soon.
But there are ominous signs that the local market is poised for the property bubble. Nobody just can’t say how loud the bubble would burst.
Prominent property market analysts in the Philippines are seeing and digesting the numbers being reported by developers. They all point to one direction—sales are slowing and inventories are not going down.
Many property developers, as reported in this paper, are quietly slashing prices on unsold inventory in a move that could be described as a “silent fire sale.” Buyers have become cautious and are struggling with rising loan rates and inflation, while developers must contend with an oversupply of residential and commercial properties.
Lovelle Taleon, a director at leading property adviser Santos Knight Frank, said a “silent fire sale” was under way among property developers in a bid to reduce their unsold residential units.
“Regarding strategies to selling out the Metro Manila inventory, I think yes, there is a sort of a silent fire sale that has been happening. It’s a strategy that’s being implemented by all developers. The goal there is to sell it out. They don’t want to be holding on to the property anymore,” says Taleon..
Property developers, however, are a proud lot. They won”t readily admit the rummage sale. They would rather keep the sales under wraps and avoid large-scale
and 104 decliners, while 61 names were unchanged. Industrial index ended in the green, rising 0.31 percent, while services climbed 0.62 percent. Mining and oil dropped 1.5 percent, followed by financials which went down by 1.23 percent and property which lost 0.71 percent.
Manila Electric Co. was the top index gainer, jumping by 4.13 percent to P479, while BDO Unibank Inc. was the main index decliner, falling 4.03 percent to P143. Asian markets also swung Wednesday ahead of the Federal Reserve’s much-anticipated policy announcement, while shares in Japanese car titan Nissan soared more than 20 percent after reports said it was in merger talks with rival
advertising campaigns to prevent further market instability.
Property consultant Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC) confirmed the glut. It estimated an oversupply of 29 months’ worth of condominium units in Metro Manila. The demise of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) largely contributed to the slack in demand,. With a high unsold inventory, property developers are also expected to significantly cut down their residential launches in the next two years.
DMCI Homes president Alfredo Austria does not see any new project launches for his company in the first half of 2025 given the large number of unsold units in existing developments. DMCI is also not sure if it will launch new projects in the second half of next year.
Higher loan rates for the most part of year and the increased cost of goods and services have dampened demand for residential condominiums in Metro Manila.
Leechiu Property reported a doubledigit decline in residential sales in Metro Manila as of November 2024. It noted that that sales take-up dropped 63 percent compared with the full year of 2023, while new project launches were about half of last year’s volume.
Leechiu Property says the tempered market offers an opportunity for buyers, as developers adjust marketing tactics and enhance inventory offerings with valueadded features.
Residential condominium sales in Metro Manila in the first 11 months of 2024,
meanwhile, accounted for just 63 percent of full-year 2023 levels. New condominium launches rose quarter-on-quarter in the fourth quarter of 2024 but total launches in 11 months accounted for just half of the full-year 2023 project count, a clear indication that developers were being cautious amid the slower sales environment.
Developers, to get rid of their high inventory, are now offering more flexible terms, such as smaller down payments and extended payment periods. The adjustments make it easier for homebuyers to manage their finances and reduce the immediate burden of large upfront costs.
Metro Manila’s remaining inventory as of the third quarter of 2024, according to property consultant Colliers Philippines, stands at 75,300 units, with an estimated absorption period of 5.8 years, or much longer than the pre-pandemic period when it took just one to two years.
The inventory includes 27,200 ready for occupancy units valued at P154.4 billion ($2.8
The
Honda. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP
Ayala Corp. signs a €50 million (P3.1 billion) social loan from European bank ING to support AC Health’s portfolio growth. Joining the signing ceremony are (from left) Wing Bayoneta, product management and development lead of ING Philippines; Lenin Duenas, head of corporate sector coverage and financial institutions; Jun Palanca, country manager and head of wholesale banking; Albert de Larrazabal, Ayala Corp. chief finance officer; and Estelito Biacora, Ayala Corp. treasurer.
TMPC president Masando Hashimoto
BUSINESS
Shopee reports fourfold increase during 12.12 sale
By Othel V. Campos
E-COMMERCE platform Shopee
said it achieved remarkable success during its 12.12 Mega Pamasko Sale, driving unprecedented sales for Filipino sellers and MSMEs.
It said this reinforced Shopee’s position as the Philippines’ goto online shopping destination, especially during the holiday season.
“Shopee’s 12.12 Mega Pamasko Sale continues to be a favorite among Filipino consumers. We are proud to deliver exceptional results for our local sellers, empowering them to
ALLIANZ PNB sees double-digit rise in insurance sales
ALLIANZ PNB Life Insurance
Inc. (Allianz PNB Life) expressed optimism about maintaining a doubledigit growth in 2025, following the achievement of its 2024 year-end targets, according to chief operating officer Gino Riola.
“We’re positive about growth, achieving our targets across our partners. Our partnership with HSBC, in particular, has been a standout, with growth exceeding 100 percent of targets during the first year of our exclusive agreement,” he said.
It attributed the success to a multi-pronged strategy, including the recent launch of a new digital system to address legacy challenges, reassessing its salesforce and introducing “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) products tailored to meet evolving customer needs.
As Allianz PNB Life continues its transformation, Riola emphasized the focus on protection and health insurance products, shifting away from single-premium investment products toward more sustainable offerings.
“This aligns with our goal to break into the top five of the industry rankings while remaining a leader in net new sales,” he said.
New initiatives for 2025 include the rollout of innovative funds in the first quarter and further development of sustainable partnerships, reinforcing Allianz PNB Life’s commitment to responsible growth.
Othel V. Campos
grow their businesses in the thriving digital economy,” Shopee Philippines head Vincent Lee said.
Millions of users turned to Shopee for their holiday shopping, supporting local brands and MSMEs in the Philippines.
Shopee said it recorded a fourfold increase in orders during the sale, while Filipino sellers experienced a fivefold surge in sales.
Interactive tools like Shopee Video and Shopee Live proved vital in engaging Filipino shoppers and boosting sales.
Shopee Video, the platform’s
short-form content feature, drove a 14-times increase in checkouts during the campaign.
Shopee Live, popular for its realtime interactions, saw a six-times jump in checkouts and a three-times rise in viewership, showcasing its impact on driving sales in the Philippines.
Shopee’s local initiatives, such as the Shopee Affiliate Program, further contributed to the campaign’s success.
The program generated a fourfold increase in orders through affiliates, enabling Filipino content creators to promote local products and brands effectively.
ERC asks Meralco to refund nearly P1b to customers
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) ordered Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to refund consumers P0.2264 per kilowatt-hour for a month, totaling P987.164 million, for the expenses of its regulatory reset.
The ERC directed 17 private distribution utilities (PDUs), including Meralco, to refund the remaining amounts collected from consumers for the expenses of the regulatory reset periodically conducted by the regulator.
The regulatory reset costs cover expenses for hiring technical experts.
The ERC said that based on the monitoring of bills by PDUs on Tuesday, it determined the continued inclusion of regulatory reset fees in the rates collected by PDUs and thus directed them to refund the corresponding amounts collected from consumers, ranging from P0.0476 centavos to P0.3190 centavos per kWh for a total refund amount of P1.177 billion.
“We are targeting the release of the resolution within the month so it can be implemented early 2025,” ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said.
The ERC said a similar order was issued to PDUs in 2019, covering collections for prior periods, and this was implemented as a one-time
refund in July 2019. It said the current refund would cover collections for the period following the July 2019 initial refund. The refund will be implemented for a period of one month for most PDUs, except for Clark Electric Distribution Corp. (CEDC), for which the refund will be implemented for two months.
The ERC said these refunds would be reflected as a separate line item in the electricity bills of consumers. The regulator said these amounts were initially approved to be collected to engage technical experts for the periodical regulatory rate reset conducted by the ERC.
It said no actual payments were made as the PDUs did not engage technical experts, and amounts were provided to the ERC under the annual government budget for these purposes.
The difference between the amount directed to be refunded and the actual refund disbursed to consumers will be verified during the regulatory rate reset to be conducted by the ERC.
CICC warns public against fraudulent offers of faster SIM card registration
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) on Wednesday warned the public against fraudulent offers of expedited SIM card registration, saying there are no shortcuts to complying with Republic Act No. 11934, the SIM Registration Act, which is now two years in effect.
CICC executive director Alexander Ramos issued the advisory amid the proliferation of dubious social media accounts offering SIM card registration services for all networks
for a minimal fee.
It said one social media account named DITO Telecommunity tried to attract customers with SIM card registration for all networks.
DITO Telecommunity Corp., however, disowned the social media account and claimed that it had not authorized the practice.
“We’re the strictest among the three on SIM registration,” DITO replied to queries from CICC.
RA 11934, enacted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Oct. 10, 2022, took effect on Dec. 27,2022 to promote
responsibility in the use of SIM.
The law also provides “enforcement agencies the tools to resolve crimes which involve its utilization and a platform to deter the commission of wrongdoings.”
Ramos reminded the public that SIM card users are required to personally register with their respective networks and should show their government issued identification card and selfie.
“The SIM registration process is not that complicated and there is no need to hire a third party to do it for you.
GOVERNMENT Service Insurance
System (GSIS) president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso, together with other GSIS executives, led the ceremonial draw of the “GSIS Touch and Win” Christmas Raffle.
About 300 members and pensioners — 210 active members and 90 pensioners — each received P5,000, amounting to a total of P1.5 million in prizes.
“This is not just a raffle,” said Veloso during the event. “It’s a step toward GSIS’s digital transformation. We are not only making our services more accessible through the GSIS Touch app but also spreading happiness this Christmas season to our valued members and pensioners.”
Veloso highlighted the success of GSIS’s digital shift, saying, “GSIS services are now 98-percent digital, of which 70 percent is via mobile phone and 30 percent via kiosks.”
The festive atmosphere was heightened as GSIS employees and executives cheered with every winner’s name that was announced.
Veloso expressed his gratitude to the GSIS team for their unwavering commitment. “I thank our hardworking GSIS employees and executives for their tireless contributions in serving our members and pensioners. Your dedication continues to make a difference in improving their lives,” he said.
Do not be deceived by those offering to register your SIM,” he said. Ramos warned that third parties offering SIM registration service might use the information for other purposes. As of July 30,2023, a total of 113,969,014 SIM were registered out of the 168,016,400 SIM cards in circulation.
Those who have questions or issues related to SIM registration may call the Inter Agency Response Center hotline 1326. The hotline operates round-the-clock from Mondays to Sundays including holidays.
NKS Solar spending $100m on first phase of floating solar plant
NKS Solar One, a joint venture between Blueleaf Energy Philippines and NKS Energy Utilities, is looking at capital expenditure of $100 million for the construction and completion of the first phase of its 250-megawatt peak floating solar project in Caliraya and Lumot Lakes in Laguna. Phase 1 involves the 162-megawatt peak Caliraya floating solar project, while phase 2 covers the 88-MWp Lumot floating solar project.
NKS senior project manager Pradeep Gopalakrishnan said the company is finalizing negotiations with Xian and Energy China for the AC and DC component of the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract.
“We are talking with two EPCs, one is for AC, the other is for the DC… One is Xian Electric which has 13 years of presence in the Philippines. The other one is Energy China,” Gopalakrishnan said.
NKS Solar was awarded a certificate of energy projects of national significance (CEPNS) by the Department of Energy under Executive Order 30 for its Laguna floating solar plants, which is anticipated to be the country’s first utility-scale floating solar project.
The CEPNS status will help expedite and streamline the issuance of necessary permits and clearances from various government agencies and authorities.
The certification recognizes energy projects that significantly impact the country’s energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
NKS Solar One is one of the winners in the
office of Social Security System’s (SSS) newly-appointed acting president and chief executive Robert Joseph Montes De Claro on Dec. 10, 2024. SSS is among the government financial institutions (GFIs) being overseen by the Department of Finance (DOF).
Over 300 participants join PH-China relations forum
By Michael Wong Ho
MORE than 300 diplomats, government officials, academics and media representatives gathered for the 13th Manila Forum on PhilippineChina Relations and the annual Christmas media [arty organized by the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Association for Philippine-China Understanding (APCU) on Dec. 11, 2024 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.
Hans Sy awarded honorary mayor title in Bacolod
THE Bacolod City Council awarded Filipino-Chinese businessman Hans Sy the title of “Bacolod Honorary Citizen and Honorary Mayor” during a special session on Dec. 16, 2024, in recognition of his significant contributions to the city’s development.
Mayor Albee Benitez, in a speech during the resolution’s passing, lauded Sy for his instrumental role in shaping the city’s economic landscape.
He highlighted Sy’s leadership in the construction of the SM City Bacolod and his pivotal efforts in the reconstruction of the iconic Manokan Country, a popular landmark for local cuisine.
Sy also championed numerous large-scale projects that contributed to the city’s growth, helping to attract investments and boost Bacolod’s economy.
Sy has become one of Bacolod’s most important assets due to his business achievements, philanthropic initiatives and commitment to social responsibility which positively impacted the city and its residents.
At 68 years old, Sy is the chairman of the executive committee of SM Prime Holdings Inc., a position that has enabled him to oversee one of the Philippines’ largest and most successful retail and property development companies.
Sy also holds significant roles in China Banking Corp. and the National University, further underscoring his influence in both the business and educational sectors. Michael Wong Ho
China Ambassador to the Philippines Huang
Xi Lian and former Senator Anna Nikki Coseteng were present during the event.
Ambassador Huang emphasized the importance of understanding China in the context of global and regional changes. He highlighted the concern many Filipinos have about the relationship between China and the United States, noting that shifts in US foreign policy, especially under the “Trump 2.0” administration are something to watch closely.
Huang discussed China’s remarkable economic growth, pointing out how the country’s GDP, which ranked third globally in 2008, has grown nearly four times the size of Japan’s.
He also noted that China’s high-speed rail network expanded to 46,000 kilometers, and the country’s industrial manufacturing now accounts for 30 percent of global output, surpassing the
combined industrial output of the G7 nations.
The ambassador also talked about China’s commitment to its people’s welfare, highlighting that over the past 40 years, 800 million people have been lifted out of poverty, well ahead of the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Huang stressed the importance of fighting corruption, maintaining social stability and ensuring public safety—values that are highly regarded in China.
He also outlined China’s vision for global peace and development, focusing on building “a community with a shared future for mankind.”
He pointed to China’s achievements in renewable energy and environmental conservation, such as leading the world in wind power and solar panel exports, and doubling its forest coverage from 12 percent to above 25 percent over the past 40 years.
By Julie Ann Lope
TZU Chi volunteers contributed 20 kilograms of plastic bottle caps and rings to the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) for its innovative water reclamation project.
The initiative, titled “Irradiated Aquablocks Biofilm Carriers,” seeks to use plastic waste in the development of biofilm, a type of bacteria that helps break down pollutants in used water, thus aiding in its reclamation.
The project aims to address the growing global issue of water scarcity, which is exacerbated by increasing population and demand for water.
With plastic caps and rings now playing a crucial role in the research, DOST-PNRI researchers, including chemical engineer Paolo Lazarte and his team, are working on ways to recycle these plastics for environmental sustainability.
Lazarte emphasized the importance of finding alternative solutions to water conservation. “Since we cannot avoid using water, we try to find ways to make it useful again for us,” he said.
The collaboration with Tzu Chi allowed the team to use discarded plastic materials in the creation of biofilm carriers, which can help clean contaminated water.
For Tzu Chi volunteer Woon Ng, the experience was a valuable opportunity to further engage the community in environmental practices. Ng has long been involved in Tzu Chi’s sustainability programs, including recycling and eco-friendly initiatives. She believes that practical learning experiences are essential in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues, especially among the youth.
Chinese Embassy officials visit Chiang Kai Shek College to boost education
CHINESE Ambassador Huang Xi Lian and other embassy officials visited the Chiang Kai Shek College (CKSC) on Dec. 10, 2024 to strengthen educational and cultural ties.
The delegation, which included Attaché Wang Yue, Consul Shi Wei Jian and Secretary Zhu Chen Xian, was welcomed by students who performed lion and dragon dances, along with lively songs and drum beats.
The college’s board of directors led by chairman Chen Yi Wei and alumni leaders were also present during the event.
Chen expressed gratitude to the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) for their continued support.
The highlight of the event was the announcement that CKSC was designated as an “HSK Test Center” by the Chinese government.
The college was also awarded the title of “Philippine Chiang Kai Shek College Chinese Study Testing Center” by China’s Ministry of Education in November 2024.
The new status will offer students the opportunity to take standardized Chinese language tests, strengthening educational and cultural ties between the Philippines and China.
Chen underscored the expansion of the college’s academic offerings, including new international degree programs at the Nan Fu Mei campus, which attracted many local students.
CKSC principal Ye Qi Ming shared the college’s rich history and ongoing achievements and emphasized its role in promoting education and cultural exchange.
The
Filipino-Chinese community provides disaster relief to Tondo fire victims
THE Filipino-Chinese community, spearheaded by the Filipino At Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation, Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc., and other local organizations, came together to provide a disaster relief operation on Dec. 3, 2024 for the fire victims in Island Puting Bato, Tondo, Manila. The fire, which occurred on Nov. 24 raged for nearly eight hours, destroyed about 1,000 homes and displaced around 8,000 people.
Chinese Embassy in the Philippines director Wu Chen Qi and embassy staff members Liu Lu Cheng, Wang Zi Ming and Shao Ting also joined the activity.
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pe-
Chinatown TV sends field reporters to attend China seminar for journalists
CHINATOWN TV sent reporters Shakespeare Go and Andrew See to Changsha, China on Nov. 27, 2024 to participate in the “Seminar on Press Officers and Journalists for the Philippines” sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and organized by the Hunan International Business Vocational College.
The opening ceremony was held at 2:30 p.m, on that day at the conference room on the 3rd floor of the Meinian Hotel 21ᴼ in Changsha. Xu Qianya, project manager of the China-Aid Training Faculty of Hunan International Busi-
ness Vocational College, served as the host of the opening ceremony.
She introduced the leaders as well as Chinese and foreign guests, and then invited the participants to introduce themselves.
Liu Qi, second investigator of the E-commerce Department of the Hunan Provincial Department of Commerce, attended the opening ceremony and delivered a speech.
He said that Hunan Province not only holds a significant position in domestic journalism, but also established a good international reputation,
providing valuable experience and a model for the cooperation between journalism and communication between China and the Philippines.
Tang Jin, Party Secretary of Hunan International Business Vocational College, said in his speech that this is the 14th consecutive year that the school organized a training program for the news media. They will invite experts and professionals from renowned universities and enterprises in Hunan Province to engage in in-depth discussions on journalism management experiences with everyone.
dro offered words of encouragement and assurance to the residents.
He emphasized the solidarity of the Filipino-Chinese community and said they would always stand by their fellow Filipinos in times of need.
The relief goods distributed to the victims included 5-kilogram bags of rice, along with other essential items such as canned goods, clothing and hygiene products. Local residents expressed their gratitude to the organizations for their generosity and support during the difficult time.
The disaster relief effort reflected the strong spirit of unity and compassion among the Filipino Chinese community and highlighted their commitment to giving back to the Philippines in times of crisis. Julie Ann Lope
The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has supported CKSC’s educational initiatives since 2015, including scholarships for students and incentives for teachers.
visit further strengthened the partnership between CKSC and the Chinese Embassy and reinforced the college’s role as a leader in education and cultural diplomacy.Michael Wong Ho
China Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xi Lian addresses more than 300 diplomats, government officials, academics and media representatives who gathered for the 13th Manila Forum on Philippine-China Relations on Dec. 11, 2024 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.
SM Prime Holdings Inc. chairman Hans Sy
Officials of the China Embassy to the Philippines visit the Chiang Kai Shek College (CKSC) on Dec. 10, 2024.
Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Dr. Cecilio Pedro offers words of encouragement and assurance to the Tondo fire victims.
Delegates attend the ‘Seminar on Press Officers and Journalists for the Philippines’ sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and organized by the Hunan International Business Vocational College.
Christmas Joy & Festivities
It’s Christmas all over the world
By Angelica Villanueva
FROM colorful lights hugging tall Christmas trees of every home to the heartwarming voices of children caroling on the streets, the world is filled with unique and fascinating traditions during the holiday season. While the core spirit of Christmas remains universal, the ways people celebrate vary widely, reflecting their cultural heritage and creativity.
Philippines
Renowned for having deeply-rooted Christian traditions, Christmas stands out as the most celebrated occasion and special holiday in the Philippines. Having the world’s longest Christmas season, the Philippines begins to turn on the Christmas lights and volume up the holiday music as early as September and extends until January. One notable Filipino Christmas tradition is Simbang Gabi, a series of nine dawn masses held from Dec. 16 to Dec. 24. Attending all nine masses is believed to grant special blessings or fulfill a wish. These masses are accompanied by the aroma of local delicacies sold outside churches, such as bibingka (rice cake) and puto bumbong (purple sticky rice steamed in bamboo tubes).
Christmas may not be a national holiday in Japan, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t a special holiday among the Japanese. Instead of the traditional turkey dinner, many families celebrate it in a unique and delicious way by heading to Kentucky Fried Chicken. Back in the year 1974, the tradition originated in a marketing campaign called “Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii!” which translates to “Kentucky for Christmas!” It was a hit, and decades later, the fast-food chain remains a holiday go-to favorite
Japan
food place, with some customers placing orders months in advance or braving two-hour lines to get their festive “finger-lickin’ good” fried chicken.
Norway
One of Norway’s unique Christmas Eve traditions rooted in centuries-old folklore. Norwegians hide all the brooms in the house – a practice that carries a deep cultural significance, tied to the belief that Christmas Eve is not only a holy night but also one when the boundary between the natural and supernatural worlds becomes especially thin. According to Norwegian legends, witches and mischievous spirits are particularly active on this night, roaming the skies in search of opportunities for mischief. In these tales, witches often rely on brooms as their primary mode of transportation. By hiding their brooms, Norwegian families symbolically deprive these supernatural beings of the means to carry out their antics.
By Rolando Ng III
‘TIS the season to go and herald the Yuletide cheer!
The cool breeze of December calls for all to prepare for Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ, and enjoin in its feast. Here in the Philippines, various traditions are being made by Filipinos to celebrate the holidays, such as attending Simbang gabi and setting up noche buena. Yet every so often this time around, one might come to hear children, carrying their tansan tambourines and improvised tambol, singing some carols outside their homes. The music of the season has never failed to ignite the cheerful mood that blends with the serene setting of the streets. Christmas carols were traced to Rome
in the 4th century. Poems, such as Of the Father’s Love Begotten by Prudentius, spoke of Jesus as the Lord’s begotten son. Though reflective of the themes present in today’s Christmas music, the texts written were made at a time where the Christian church was struggling to find its own doctrine. Nevertheless, Christ as the Son of God became the prevalent narrative – which continued to serve as its basis.
Over time, Christianity was introduced across Europe. In the 13th century, St. Francis of Assisi introduced the nativity plays which were accompanied by the singing of a Christmas carol. He also encouraged people to write them in their own language. This began the tradition of heralding the season, retelling the story of Christ’s birth through a song.
Caroling dates back to the time of the Spanish colonizers and started out as a choir performing villancicos (Christmas carol in Spanish). Initially performed at a Holy Mass, villancicos gradually made their way onto the streets.
Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, unmarried women take part in a delightful—and slightly quirky— Christmas tradition to have a glimpse of their romantic futures. On Christmas Day, young women stand with their backs to the front door of their homes and toss a shoe over their shoulder. If the shoe lands with its toe pointing toward the door, it’s believed that wedding bells might be ringing soon. However, if the heel points to the door, it’s thought they’ll remain single for another year. The lighthearted custom has grown into a festive highlight, with families gathering to cheer on the toss and share in the excitement of the outcome. Whether the shoe predicts romance or patience, the moment is often accompanied by laughter, good-natured teasing, and perhaps
One
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when paper was one of the few materials not rationed. On Christmas Eve, families exchange books and spend the evening reading together, often sipping hot chocolate and enjoying traditional treats. The tradition begins in November with the arrival of the Bókatíðindi, a catalog
LET’S face it: the holidays are basically a high-stakes juggling act. Between gift shopping, party hopping, and planning Insta-worthy spreads, there’s no room for unexpected drama—except, of course, when life insists on throwing a curveball. Whether it’s a surprise home repair or a last-minute Noche Buena expense, one financial hiccup can derail your whole vibe.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose between being prepared for the unexpected and enjoying the holidays. With Maya Easy Credit from the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, you can keep the festivities going, no matter what life throws your way. Why Maya Easy Credit Works for the Holidays Maya Easy Credit is designed for moments when you need flexibility. Whether it’s repairing something at home before hosting your family’s Noche Buena or covering an unplanned expense, this feature keeps you prepared without dipping into your savings. It’s not just credit; it’s peace of mind for the busiest (and most expensive) time of the year. How does it work? It’s simple—you can get instant approval, subject to credit evaluation!
1. Apply: Head over to the Credit tab in your Maya App and tap ‘Apply now’ to see if you’re eligible to access funds of up to P30,000.
2. Review: Take a moment to review your details and tap ‘Confirm’.
3. Accept: Accept the terms and conditions, and you’re good to go! Just remember, timely payment is crucial to avoid penalties and keep your credit refreshed for continued use.
Once approved, you can already transfer funds to your Wallet; or pay directly via QR at your favorite stores and restaurants, buy load, or checkout online. And here’s the cherry on top: every P1,000 you spend using Maya earns you an entry into its P1 million holiday giveaway. From fixing life’s little hiccups to handling emergencies stress-free, every transaction brings you closer to a life-changing prize.
With Maya Easy Credit, you don’t have to let unexpected expenses dim your holiday cheer. Enjoy the festivities, handle emergencies stress-free, and maybe even walk into the new year as a millionaire. So go ahead, celebrate without compromises— because Maya has your back. Learn more about Maya Easy Credit at maya.ph and mayabank.ph, and stay updated by following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (www.bsp.gov. ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to P500,000 per depositor.
a glass of hot mulled wine for the adults. Over time, this quirky tradition has become less about fate and more about creating joyful holiday memories with loved ones.
Iceland
of the coziest Christmas traditions in the world is Iceland’s Jólabókaflóð, or the “Christmas Book Flood.”
heartwarming practice
back to World War II
File photo shows a group of mothers from the Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila singing carols to motorists plying along Roxas Boulevard.
Danny Pata
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
Buzzing into the
holidays with sustainability
By Angelica Villanueva
AS THE holiday season fast approaches, skincare brand Burt’s Bees officially opened its Holiday Pop-Up on Wednesday, Dec. 4. Located at Mitsukoshi Mall in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), the store offers a festive and sustainable shopping experience for gift-givers.
With a playful nod to the season, the store’s theme, “Buzzing Into the Holidays,” sets the tone for a celebration rooted in the brand’s commitment to sustainability and joy. The natural beauty brand invites shoppers to experience its unique holiday offerings with a twist—guilt-free gifting that is as kind to the planet as it is to loved ones.
Burt’s Bees has long been a champion of sustainability, and its holiday collections are no exception. With a focus on responsibly sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, shoppers will find various seasonal gifts that are not only delightful but also aligned with Burt’s Bees’ values of responsibility and care for the environment.
“Today we’re celebrating; we call it ‘Buzzing Into the Holidays.’ We also call it ‘Hive Yourself a Merry Little Holiday,’” said Burt’s Bees Brand Lead Rhoda De Los Reyes Speaking to Manila Standard Life, De Los Reyes emphasized how customers can give gifts with the confidence that they’re helping the planet.
“So Burt’s Bees, in the tradition of our gifting every year, I think what’s special about our gifting is that aside from these buzzworthy gifts, the gifts are very much aligned with our brand’s ethos, which is sustainability,” she continued.
“Our gifts are responsibly sourced, the products are all responsibly sourced—the beeswax, the shea butter, the honey—and there’s no plastic in our packaging, there’s no window of plastic, everything is made of recyclable plastic,” explained De Los Reyes.
For Burt’s Bees, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a commitment to making a positive impact on the planet. By creating products with no plastic windows and using recyclable materials, the company makes it easier for shoppers to give gifts that make both the recipient and the Earth smile.
“So it’s nice that you give something that you love, but you know that you’re also giving something good for the planet. And there’s no guilt about giving that thing because you know that aside from it making your recipient happy, it’s the perfect gift that you can give this holiday season,” the executive stated.
This year’s holiday collection brings both new additions and beloved classics. Among the newcomers are luxurious lotions, nourishing hand creams, and revitalizing lip serums—perfect for anyone who wants to pamper their skin during the colder months.
“The new one, actually we have the lotions, we have the hand creams, we also have lip serums. And at the same time, I think it’s more of, we try to stick with the classics, because the classics are always the best-sellers,” shared De Los Reyes.
“And you know, people love our gifts because, like I said, they’re ready to give. It’s made of cardboard which you can write on, there’s a portion where you can just write your message. It has a string that you can also hang onto your Christmas tree. It’s the perfect gift to give this holiday,” she added.
True to its theme, Burt’s Bees focuses on the simple pleasure of sharing these timeless gifts with loved ones. Whether gifting a lip balm or a hand cream, each product is wrapped in beautiful, recyclable packaging.
“And this year’s theme is about [unwrapping] a little joy. So it’s the joy you find in these classics wrapped beautifully in our recyclable packaging. So I think in every holiday or every holiday that we celebrate, Burt’s Bees’ ethos is that it should be founded on sustainability. And at the same time, giving delightful, giving products that will surely delight the consumers,” said De Los Reyes.
Ten mental health tips for the holiday season
T‘IS the season to spend time with family, catch up with friends, and be festive.
However, no matter how joyous the vibe is, the dreaded Christmas Rush may overwhelm you. What should have been a merry period could be stressful. And perhaps, even lonely for others.
With how busy holiday plans may get, experts from the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) noted it is important to remember to take charge and look after your mental health.
To counsel the general public, the specialists shared tips from the Mental Health Foundation, a United Kingdombased charity dedicated to research, development, and promotion of new ways to safeguard good mental health.
Expert offers guides to ease travel anxiety during holiday rush
THE holiday season brings reunions and travel to scenic destinations, but the stress of bumper-to-bumper traffic and crowded airports can take a toll, raising questions about whether it’s truly “the most wonderful time of the year.”
Dr. Jon Edward B. Jurilla, a psychiatrist at Makati Medical Center, says the stress associated with holiday travel can trigger “travel anxiety,” a condition marked by tension over unfamiliar places or the challenges of traveling.
“Combine this with the mad rush of frenzied crowds at any airport, terminal, and road and it makes for a not-so-happy holiday,” Jurilla said.
“Travel anxiety is characterized by
the tension that comes from visiting an unfamiliar place or even just the stress of traveling,” Dr. Jurilla explains.
He advises identifying triggers and planning ahead to reduce stress. For instance, double-check travel bookings to avoid last-minute issues.
“While it doesn’t guarantee a bump-free journey, preparation helps you feel in control,” Jurilla said. Jurilla also recommends gradual exposure to fears. Those anxious about crowded airports can visit busy malls during peak hours to acclimate.
“This technique, called habituation, makes real situations feel less overwhelming,” he said.
Talk about your feelings. Communicate your emotions. Create a space for these conversations. Identify who you can speak to. It will be easier through tough times. Take a break . Have some time out from your day-to-
day life. Give yourself a change of scene or pace. Practice mindfulness to unwind. Gain some perspective to reflect on the past year.
Do something you are good at. Try to keep up with hobbies you enjoy all year round. Turn these into Christmastime activities: handcraft gifts, bake cakes and cookies. And don’t forget to play Christmas songs.
Accept who you are. Remember: People live different lives. Do not feel under pressure to do more than you are up to. Eat well. What we eat affects how we feel. Too much sugar has noticeable effects on health in the short and long term. Balance it out. Dine in moderation.
Drink sensibly. It is great to celebrate over drinks. Spending time on good relationships is essential for your well-being. However, it is best to know your limits.
Keep active. Working out pumps up endorphins – the happy hormones. Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem, help you concentrate and sleep better, and keep your brain and other vital organs healthy.
Seek for help. We get overwhelmed when something goes wrong. If circumstances are getting too much for you in the next few weeks, ask for help.
Keep in touch. Enjoy this time to catch up. Family and friends can offer different views, keep you grounded, and solve practical problems.
Care for others. Keep up the relationships with people close to you. Reach out to loved ones. Find out how they have been.
your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds,” advises Dr. Jurilla. “This helps boost oxygen in your organs and tissues.” Setting aside quiet time to read or journal is another way to relax.
“Choose activities that calm your mind and re-energize you,” Jurilla said. The holidays, he added, should be a time for relaxation and enjoyment—a
Travel anxiety can be mitigated by identifying triggers as well as planning ahead of time
Burts’ Bees holiday collection offers both new items and beloved classics packed in vibrant recyclable packaging
To manage anxiety during flights, Jurilla suggests the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for four
Taking a break from usual routines can work wonders for one’s mental state
Hobbies can be turned into fun activities for the holidays
Christmas Joy & Festivities
Local gift ideas for your loved ones this holiday season
By Abigail Adriatico
WITH the holidays right around the corner, many Filipinos are busy ticking off their seemingly endless list of gifts for people, ranging from their families and friends to even their bosses and coworkers.
Celebrate
THE Christmas season is a time for togetherness, joy, and most of all, good food. This year, let Cravings bring warmth and flavor to your holiday gatherings with its thoughtfully curated Christmas 2024 packages. From Noche Buena sets to sweet treats perfect for gifts, Cravings can help you make the season more magical. A Feast to Remember
Imagine gathering your family around the table, sharing stories and laughter, as you savor a spread filled with festive favorites. Cravings’ Noche Buena Set, now available at a special discounted price of P5,950 (originally P6,950), and serves 6 to 8 people. It includes Classic
While malls have extended their shopping hours to accommodate those who have little time to shop after work, there are some who may have a different problem altogether—what gift should they buy in the first place?
To help indecisive minds for the holidays, here are a few gift ideas that your loved ones are sure to enjoy.
Some new fashionable clothes
For those who know a few budding fashionistas, a present that would always be appreciated is a fashionable piece they can wear confidently as they treat the world as their own runway.
Clothing brand From Phoebe features a wide range of cute and chic tops, bottoms, and dresses that are perfect for those that want to embrace their femininity and look their absolute best everyday. Apart from its ready-to-wear pieces, the store also has their own bespoke tailoring services for people who may want to have their own custommade clothes.
Another brand that you might want to check out is Calliah Fashion which has various modern pieces ranging from cute maxi and midi dresses to stylish and playful sleeveless tops that suit just about anyone you know that is planning to upgrade their wardrobe for the upcoming year or those looking to add more pieces they can use for their everyday look.
A pair of stylish shoes
Another gift idea that is sure to be useful to anyone is a good pair of footwear. In the Philippines, a place that is well-known for their incredibly sturdy pairs of shoes is Marikina,
Caesar Salad, Callos a la Madrileña, Prawns Thermidor, the flavorful Paella-Stuffed Chicken, and the Chocolate Caramel Cake in a Tin Can. Every dish is created in Cravings’ kitchen with love and flavor that makes Christmas dinner unforgettable.
Food Packages for Every Celebration
Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a year end office party, Cravings offers Medium (serves 3–4) and Large (serves 6–8) food packages to suit your needs.
These packages feature a variety of festive mains—Cravings Classics—including the tender Roast Beef with Mushroom Sauce, American Baked Spareribs, and Baked Salmon with Mustard Cream and Garlic Pasta. Other favorites include Chicken Cordon Bleu, Parmesan-
which serves as the home of footwear store JoyVen Shoes. Featuring several stylish designs ranging from classic sandals for everyday use to formal shoes for school or the office, JoyVen shoes guarantees high quality stitch sole leather footwear that is worth every peso.
Alta Philippines also offers a wide range of high quality footwear proudly made in Marikina.
With each pair bringing a touch of sophistication to anyone’s wardrobe, some designs include platforms, loafers, clogs, and many others, which are all handcrafted by artisans from Marikina using genuine cow leather that is sure to stand the test of time.
Accessories to elevate one’s look
During the season of giving, one can never go wrong with jewelry as a thoughtful present to give to those who mean a lot to you. Be it simple bracelets consisting of symbols that remind you of a special someone, cute rings to match whimsical outfits a friend might always wear, or unique pendants that uplift any kind of look, Chubss Jewelry offers all kinds of accessories you may want to give as presents for the holidays.
With anik-anik being a rising trend in fashion, the younger generations might greatly appreciate some cute and quirky charms they can wear and also put on their bags and shoes. Russet Accessories has various handmade charms with designs like vibrant letters and random items. These cute designs can be made into necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, shoe charms, and bag charms.
Fashionable and useful bags
People have various priorities when it comes to the bags they use. Some want bags mostly for their function while others want it for style. Big Bag Theory has many options with its offerings ranging from spacious tote bags to cute little hobo bags, which can all be personalized for the person you are giving a present to.
For those who might want a touch of local
Crusted Fish Fillet, and Prawns Thermidor.
For a more traditional touch, the Roast Stuffed Chicken with Chorizo and Raisins or the Three-Cheese Baked Salmon are ideal choices. Each dish is a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the love that Cravings puts into their dishes.
A favorite especially among the young ones, Cravings’ Classic Beef Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a giveaway. Available in Small, Medium, and Large pans, this dish is a must-have for any gathering and promises to satisfy everyone at the table. Delights from the Bakeshop
Known for their decadent cakes, Cravings has a lineup of sweet treats that will add a touch of magic to the holidays. Choose from a variety of whole cakes, including the luscious Chocolate Caramel, the Devil’s Food Cake, Cherry Walnut Cheesecake, and the classic Carrot Walnut Cake.
For something extra special, Cravings offers Christmas-Themed Devil’s Food Cake, Christmas-Themed Chocolate Caramel Cake, Polvoron Cake, and Strawberry Shortcake (available with a 48-hour advanced order).
For gifting, Cravings offers buttery and flavorful Butter Cookies made with premium Lurpak Butter. There’s also the gooey Walnut Brownies and Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. If you’re in the mood for something unique, try the nutty and flaky Pili and Cashew Nut Baklava, available in various
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DepEd adopts PLDT, Smart-backed Dynamic Learning Program to ensure no learner is left behind in disruptive events
PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless unit, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), have onboarded teachers from provinces that were severely impacted by the devastating typhoons in the last quarter of the year to the Central Visayan Institute Foundation Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF-DLP).
The Department of Education (DepEd) has adopted the crisis-resilient teaching pedagogy as an alternate learning delivery method to facilitate continuous learning in areas that have been hit by natural and man-made disasters, and other disruptive events.
“The DepEd will make use of the CVIF-DLP Learning Activity Sheets to augment catch-up classes to compensate for lost hours because of class suspensions due to the typhoons. We are thankful for the support of our long-time partners, PLDT and Smart, CVIF-DLP co-founder Dr. Chris Bernido and the CVIF-DLP ambassadors for helping us in our onboarding sessions,” said Malcolm S. Garma, Assistant Secretary for Field Operations, Department of Education.
The DepEd has rolled out the CVIF-DLP in Region 1 (Ilocos), Region 2 (Cagayan Valley), Region 3 (Central Luzon), Region 4A (CALABARZON), Region 5 (Bicol), and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). In November alone, with the DepEd’s support, PLDT and Smart, together with Dr. Bernido and program ambassadors, have trained more than 15,000 teachers on the CVIF-DLP strategy.
“Understanding the challenge of mitigating disruptions caused by extreme weather, PLDT and Smart are working closely with the DepEd to ensure that no learner is left behind, especially in times of calamity. Together with our partners and program ambassadors, we have customized our onboarding process to help affected schools quickly implement the CVIF-DLP,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Group Head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.
Supported by PLDT, Smart, and the PLDT-Smart Foundation, the crisis-tested CVIF-DLP had previously helped schools cope with major interruptions brought
Central to the program is the CVIF-DLP Learning Activity Sheet which simplifies complex topics into a singlepage worksheet
about by the global pandemic and extreme temperatures. Central to the program is the CVIF-DLP Learning Activity Sheet that simplifies complex topics into a singlepage worksheet. The teaching pedagogy allows students to learn at their own pace with minimal teacher intervention. CVIFDLP provides schools with the flexibility to continue classes while they recover from the damage brought about by the recent typhoon.
Together with CVIF-DLP implementing schools and ambassadors, PLDT and Smart have shared the CVIF-DLP Learning Activity Sheets from Grade 1 to Grade 12 with the DepEd to accelerate the adoption of the program.
As long-time partners of the DepEd, PLDT and Smart have supported the agency’s initiatives in improving the country’s basic education system. The latest engagement builds on more than 20 years of collaborative partnership in addressing learning gaps among Filipino students.
PLDT and Smart’s education programs are aligned with the DepEd’s key priorities under Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara. The agency’s five-point agenda prioritizes boosting learners’ foundational skills in reading, math and science to improve Filipino students’ performance in international large-scale assessments, professional development of teachers, employing digital innovations to augment existing teaching strategies, ensuring senior high school graduates are ready for employment, and improving educational infrastructures and resources.
The CVIF-DLP highlights PLDT, Smart and PSF’s commitment to inclusive quality education through Information and Communications Technology, content, pedagogy and capacity building to ensure that there is #NoLearnerLeftBehind. The initiative is also aligned with the PLDT group’s broad program to help the country achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education.
Káyana Solutions: How did this groundbreaking Filipino empowerment movement start?
KÁYANA Solutions, Inc.
(Kayana) is embarking on a groundbreaking transformation for the businesses led by Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan. In addition to recently launching a partnership with Accenture to build a “digital factory”, it also invested in Bayad and Multipay to revolutionize payments for its customers.
It all started when Chairman MVP first introduced the idea of a “DigiCo”—an entity that could harness the data resources from Pangilinan-led businesses and achieve “escape velocity.”
“From the get-go, Káyana saw the opportunity to reshape ways of working and foster a new culture— one that’s agile and unafraid of failure. And Kayana did stumble in those early months. It changed direction more than once, and each time, it moved Káyana to a better place. Káyana is also benefitting from its leadership team which is a dynamic mix of young and old, with a common belief that technology serves as a powerful equalizer,” said Kayana President Ricky P. Vargas. So, almost a year after it began, Káyana has established itself as a customer engagement company delivering data-driven
digital experiences powered by synergies across the MVP Group of companies.
The digital factory with Accenture will help accelerate digital product development for the MVP Group. In response to the Chairman’s challenge, Káyana is also spearheading a collaboration among all Chief Information Officers to ensure that the MVP Group is able to responsibly leverage data to address the nation’s most pressing needs. But Káyana is more than just a company. It is a movement for Filipino empowerment. Its name,
It’s Christmas...
showcasing new publications, which is delivered to every household. This catalog allows families to carefully select books for each member, making books the most treasured Christmas gift in Iceland. With one of the highest literacy rates in the world, Iceland has earned its reputation as a nation that cherishes the written word, and Jólabókaflóð is a celebration of this deep love for reading.
Finland
In Finland, the sauna is far more than just a place to relax; it is a sacred space deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural and spiritual traditions. Many Finnish homes feature their own sauna, a custom that dates back centuries. During Christmas, the sauna takes on an especially profound role, becoming a symbolic bridge between the living and the spirits of long-departed ancestors. On Christmas Eve, it is customary for Finnish families to gather in the sauna, where they strip down and spend time in quiet contemplation. The sauna is considered a place of purification and renewal, not just for the body but for the soul.
Austria
In Austria, the Christmas season brings with it a unique and spine-chilling tradition that contrasts sharply with the jolly, giftgiving image of Santa Claus. While children in many parts of the world eagerly await the arrival of St. Nicholas, Austrian children are warned to mind their behavior, or else they may find themselves on the receiving end of a visit from Krampus—a fearsome, horned creature who serves as St. Nicholas’ dark counterpart. Krampus is not merely a mischievous figure but a terrifying one, often depicted with twisted horns, a long, pointed tongue, and a shaggy, fearsome appearance. According to Alpine folklore, Krampus is tasked with punishing those children who have misbehaved, in stark contrast to St. Nicholas, who rewards the well-behaved with gifts. While St. Nicholas brings sweets and treats, Krampus brings punishment, ranging from a frightening scolding to the threat of being kidnapped or whisked away in a sack.
‘Namamasko... From C1
In the Philippines, Christmas music was introduced by the Spaniards in the form of villancicos, a liturgical song that invites people to celebrate Christ’s birth. These were written and sung in Spanish for the mass. These were later adopted by Filipino composers through translations of their original texts.
Americans later brought their own form of Christmas music. This period gave birth to the enduring “Kasadya ning Taknaa,” first written in 1933 by Cebuano composer Vicente Rubi. This gave form to the Levi Celerio-translated “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit.” Both versions invite the people to prepare for Christ’s coming and hope for better days in the new year.
drawn from the Filipino words “kaya” and “na,” reflects its belief in the strength and potential of every Filipino. Káyana’s purpose is clear: to transform data into possibilities that enhance Filipino lives. With the belief that when harnessed effectively, data can unlock opportunities and drive progress in ways never imagined before. Data is the game-changer that enables digital experiences, delivering the personalized service every Filipino deserves, and create a Philippines where every Filipino can proudly say “Kaya na.”
As time passed, various Christmas songs in Filipino began to emerge that became staples of the season’s music. Among them are Serapio Ramos’s “Himig Pasko,” Levi Celerio’s “Namamasko,” Leo Valdez’s “Kampana ng Simbahan” and the Ryan Cayabyab-penned “Kumukutikutitap.”
In 1990, composer Jose Mari Chan, fresh from his successful comeback album “Constant Change,” released an all-Christmas album which featured his enduring composition—a duet with his daughter—that heralded the people to rejoice in anticipating the Yuletide season. “Christmas in our Hearts” warmed the hearts of Filipino listeners, which proved its popularity until today.
As Christmas is fast approaching, people of all ages are now heralding the community to prepare for Christ’s birth. Carols being sung at this time serve as a reminder that the holidays are here, embarking a form of excitement in its anticipation. The festive themes from these songs must lead us to, as a traditional carol would suggest, celebrate the season even after December 25.
With the DepEd’s support, PLDT and Smart, together with Dr. Bernido and program ambassadors, have trained thousands of teachers on the CVIF-DLP strategy