resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay
By Rio N. Araja
TDA sets P58/k max SRP for imported rice in NCR
By Alena Mae Flores
HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
By Othel Campos
TOn Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma.
HE Department of Agriculture set the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice at P58 per kilo, effective January 20, 2025.
and farmers. We must ensure the price of rice is fair and affordable even as we ensure that the rice industry remains profitable. We cannot allow the greed of a few to jeopardize the well-being of an entire nation," Agriculture secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said.
Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.
“If we don’t see P60 per kilo of rice after January 20, that’s already a significant achievement,” he added.
He said the decision followed extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including importers, retailers, industry representatives, government agencies, and law enforcement.
The MSRP will be implemented in Metro Manila and reviewed monthly to reflect changes in global rice prices. It may decrease if global prices continue to decline.
"Based on our analysis of data
and profit margins provided by importers and retailers, imported 5 percent broken rice should not exceed P58 per kilo. Higher-grade rice should be priced accordingly,” Tiu Laurel said. To bring down rice prices, the DA earlier directed the Food Terminals Inc. to sell rice through “Kadiwa ng Pangulo” centers and kiosks at subsidized prices at P45 per kilo for 5 percent broken; P40/k for 25 percent broken, and P36/k for 100 percent broken.
‘INC rally not for VP Sara but to promote peace’
The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.
Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.
By Rachelle Tonelada, Maricel V. Cruz, Charles Dantes and Joel E. Zurbano
Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-
Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry
THE businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.
AN ANCHOR from the Iglesia Ni Cristo’s (INC) official broadcast arm sought to debunk “fake news” claiming that the religious organization’s rally on Monday was intended to defend Vice President Sara Duterte against efforts to oust her from office, clarifying instead that it will be a National Rally for Peace. The clarification came amid social media posts suggesting that the event, scheduled on January 13 at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, is a show of force for Duterte, who is facing at least Paris Hilton among artists
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines is planning to check the background of candidates for the midterm polls.
“If we see red flags, we will report this to the Commission on Elections (Comelec),” AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner said.
By Darwin Amojelar
TRANSPORTATION Secretary Jaime Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members.
questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.
of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said
Some P171 million in standby fund is also available for utilization by the DSWD, including P123 million which can be allotted as Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the central office of the DSWD. In Batanes, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised residents to secure their roofs and install window shutters as Typhoon Julian is expected to make landfall
THE Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s strong record and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Speaker Martin Romualdez is now running unopposed as Leyte representative after the Commission on Elections found his lone rival to be an unregistered voter of Tacloban. Comelec chairman George Garcia on Friday said Romilda Bacale, who is seeking a congressional seat to represent the first district of Leyte against Romualdez, was now disqualified. Her name was excluded from the official ballot, he added.
“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said. Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic
Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.
The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.
BUDGET GUIDELINES. President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. holds an informal meeting with select Cabinet officials on Friday, January 10, 2025, to discuss guidelines in implementing government programs under the 2025 national budget. Present at the meeting are Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan. PCO
“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue
The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo in a speech delivered at the UN General Assembly in New York said the Philippines continues to emphasize the “importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of the multilateral system in the face of today’s global challenges.”
“She is not a registered voter of Tacloban. She moved from Sampaloc. The ERB (Election Registration Board) and the courts denied it. Next page
Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough
By Rex Espiritu
Brawner said the AFP is also addressing concerns surrounding private armed groups, “peace spoilers,” and other “threats.” AFP Public Affairs Office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the military is intensifying its intelligence gathering to help the Comelec ensure the integrity
"One of the things that the AFP is looking into now is through our intelligence operations, we are looking into the candidates, all the candidates. We are looking into their backgrounds," he added.
to lose homes in LA wildfires
shoal
order vs. Pepsi Paloma film’
By Angelica Villanueva
“The Bilyonaryo article is malicious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story.
“Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added.
Bilyonaryo reported online that “Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was
THE Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announcement by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). China reportedly made the announcement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity between the Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the regional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -
During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.
Quoted by reports, Manalo also said: “The Philippines has consistently pursued peace, the sovereign equality of states, the rights and dig nity of all persons.”
He added that the country is also recognized as the “first Asian Re
cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Beijing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.
“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to understand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audience, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said.
LOS ANGELES—Film and television stars are among hundreds of people who have lost their homes in the Los Angeles wildfires that have ravaged parts of the world's showbiz capital. These are some of the best-known celebrities who have been impacted by the blazes this week: Paris Hilton Hotel heiress Paris Hilton, 43, said she watched her seafront Malibu home burn to the ground on live television, writing on Instagram that she was "heartbroken."
Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but eventually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord -
"My heart aches for those still in harm's way or mourning greater losses. The devastation is unimaginable," Hilton wrote. She later shared a
PAGASA
(From left to right): PRA Director and Director of SM Retail Jorge T. Mendiola, PRA Vice President and President and COO of Golden, ABC, Inc. (The Penshoppe Group) Alice T. Liu, SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans T.
Laurel Jr. (left) and Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque (in red) check the prices of rice at the Murphy Public Market in Quezon City on Friday, January 10, 2025. Tiu Laurel said he is confident that retailers and importers would cooperate with the government in its efforts
Japan’s top envoy to visit PH next week
JAPANESE Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya will visit the Philippines from January 14 to 15 to strengthen their strategic partnership amidst an "increasingly complex security environment," the Department of Foreign Affairs said Friday.
The Philippines and Japan are longtime allies of the United States, which has been strengthening its al -
liances from Canberra to Tokyo to counter China's growing military might and influence in the region.
Kadiwa stores also offer P29/k rice for vulnerable sectors, including indigents, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, single parents, and indigenous peoples.
Orlando Manuntag, co-founder of the Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement, said his group supports the P58 per kilo maximum SRP for imported rice.
“World market prices have gone down. We have seen in many markets that prices are already down,” Manuntag said.
DA data showed rice import volume had reached a record of 4.7 million metric tons in 2024 as falling prices and lower tariff created a disincentive for smugglers. This allowed the market to accurately reflect the volume of rice imported into the country, Tiu Laurel said.
Earlier, the rice price issue came to the fore after NEDA Director Nieva Natural told a House panel that
Oil...
From A1 for diesel and gasoline due to concerns about tightening supply as demand is seen to increase.
Bellas said other factors that pushed up prices include worries that Western sanction could limit supply from Russia and Iran, expectations of
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three impeachment complaints before the House of Representatives.
“What will take place... is a rally for peace. It is not for VP Sara. It will take no [political] sides,” Net25 news anchor Ali Sotto said in Filipino.
“Let’s be objective. Let’s be factual. The rally is for peace -- kapayapaan,” she added.
Sotto’s statement appeared to counter the claims of lawyer Harry Roque, who earlier suggested that the rally would block efforts to impeach the Vice President.
“First of all, this [rally] opposes the impeachment of Inday Sara Duterte. Second, they want peace in the government,” Roque earlier told Bombo Radyo. Roque, reportedly abroad but whose exact whereabouts are unknown, has also been promoting the rally on his Facebook account, inviting the public to join.
As this developed, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said the three impeachment complaints filed against Duterte have all been consolidated and verified.
"Our legal department reviewed the impeachment as soon as they were filed. As of today, all three have been verified," he said.
Velasco said his office is ready to transmit anytime the three impeachment raps to the office of Speaker Martin Romualdez to enable the latter to give the go signal to the House Committee on Justice to deliberate on the complaints.
As soon as referred, the Speaker's office has 10 session days to include the complaint in the House plenary's Order of Business through the House Committee on Rules.
In turn, the plenary will have three days to refer the complaints to the
the President's Executive Order 62, which lowered the tariff on imported rice from 35 percent to 15 percent, did not lead to a reduction in prices as expected.
Marikina City Rep. Stella Quimbo cited data showing that the landed cost of rice had decreased from P34.21 per kilogram in July to P33 in December given the reduced tariff, but this did not translate to lower retail prices.
Manuntag said this was because traders were importing high-cost varieties instead of affordable rice.
He said from January to December 2024, at least 74 percent of the 4.3 million metric tons (MT) of imported rice that arrived were premium varieties, primarily whole grain, which are significantly more expensive.
Only a small fraction consisted of well-milled or broken rice—varieties intended to lower prices for consumers, he said.
Manuntag called on the government to enforce regulations requiring a mandatory allocation of at least 10 percent of imports for well-milled and broken rice.
more fiscal stimulus that could revitalize China’s economy and drive up demand for oil, cold weather in the US and Europe boosting winter fuel demand, and tight regional supply of diesel and gasoline as China’s exports remained low.
On Jan. 7, 2025, oil companies implemented an increase of P1 per liter for both gasoline and kerosene while diesel has increased by P1.40 per liter.
House Justice panel.
Velasco said he may transmit the impeachment complaints Thursday next week.
Meanwhile, Malacañang suspended work in government offices and classes at all levels in Manila and Pasay City on Monday to accommodate the INC’s "National Rally for Peace."
This was announced through Memorandum Circular No. 76, issued by the Office of the President on Friday and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
The directive cited the need to ensure the organized conduct of the event, which is expected to draw numerous participants traveling to and within the two cities.
The memorandum, however, clarified that agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other essential operations will continue to operate as necessary.
In related developments, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) also announced the road closures near Quirino Grandstand ahead of Monday’s rally.
Traffic Operations Officer Manny Miro advised road users to take alternative routes such as U.N. Avenue and Quirino Avenue due to the closure of several thoroughfares.
He noted that the following roads will be closed: Katigbak Drive, South Drive, Roxas Boulevard (from U.N. Avenue to P. Burgos), Kalaw, Bonifacio Drive (from P. Burgos to Anda Circle), and Maria Orosa.
Miro emphasized the importance of motorists using alternate routes, urging trucks to take the Quirino AvenueLacson-Capulong-R10 route during the road closure.
For his part, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes stated that street parking will be permitted on that day but only one lane may be used for this purpose.
Iwaya will hold a bilateral meeting with his Filipino counterpart, Secretary Enrique Manalo, "to discuss political, defense, security, economic and development cooperation, as well as other areas of mutual concern," the DFA said in a statement.
"Amidst an increasingly complex security environment, they are expected to reaffirm the mutual
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Pomeranians in the back of a car and said she was traveling to a hotel to take shelter.
Anthony Hopkins
Two-time Oscar-winning actor Anthony Hopkins, perhaps best known for his role in "The Silence of the Lambs," reportedly lost his luxurious home.
Pictures appeared to show the 87-year-old's property burned to the ground, though Hopkins has yet to issue a public statement.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis was forced to evacuate, writing on Instagram: "Our beloved neighborhood is gone. Our home is safe. So many others have lost everything."
She announced on Thursday that she was giving $1 million to those impacted by the fires in Los Angeles.
Jeff Bridges
Oscar-winner Jeff Bridges, known for cult classic "The Big Lebowski," lost the Malibu home that he shares with his family, a representative told entertainment news site TMZ.
Mark Hamill
"Star Wars" star Mark Hamill told followers on Instagram that he had fled his Malibu home with his wife and pet dog, escaping down a road flanked by active fires.
Hamill, 73, did not confirm if his house was destroyed but said his family were "fleeing for our lives."
Billy Crystal
"When Harry Met Sally" star Billy Crystal said the home he had lived in for 46 years was destroyed, with only a tennis court remaining.
"Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing," Crystal, 76, said in a joint statement with his wife Janice.
Eugene Levy US media reported that a home belonging to "Schitt's Creek" and "American Pie" actor Eugene Levy burned to the ground.
Levy had previously told the
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commitment to further enhancing the 'Strengthened Strategic Partnership' between the two countries and to seize new opportunities for cooperation," it added.
In July 2024, the two countries signed a Reciprocal Access Agreement, a key defense pact that allows them to deploy troops on each other's soil.
Japan has been building the
Los Angeles Times how he traveled through black smoke to evacuate his celebrity-studded neighborhood.
John Goodman
"Roseanne" actor John Goodman's home was burned to the ground, according to photos published by People Magazine that showed a pile of smoldering rubble.
Goodman, who co-starred in "The Big Lebowski," had not issued any public statement on his property.
Jennifer Grey
"Dirty Dancing" star Jennifer Grey lost her home to the blaze, her daughter wrote on Instagram.
"Last night my mama's house was burnt to the ground," Stella Gregg wrote on Instagram, adding that Grey was safe.
Cary Elwes
"The Princess Bride" star Cary Elwes said on Instagram that his home was destroyed after he and his family evacuated.
Elwes, 62, had earlier shared a video driving along the winding LA hills that showed an orange blaze in the distance, describing the scene as "biblical."
Adam Brody Golden Globes nominee Adam Brody ("Nobody Wants This," "The OC") and his actress wife Leighton Meester ("Gossip Girl"), who were on the red carpet on Sunday, reportedly lost their home in the Pacific Palisades.
People magazine obtained pictures of their home engulfed in flames.
Miles Teller
"Whiplash" star Miles Teller and his wife Keleigh Teller had their home destroyed by fire, according to photos published by People magazine.
Teller, who also appeared in "Top Gun: Maverick," did not publicly comment.
James Woods
Emmy-winning actor James Woods posted a video on X showing flames engulfing trees and bushes near his Pacific Palisades property.
"I couldn't believe our lovely little home in the hills held on this long. It feels like losing a loved one," said the 77-year-old Woods. AFP
of the electoral process and safeguard national security.
He said the initiative is conducted in coordination with the Comelec and the Philippines National Police and focuses on identifying potential security threats arising from foreign interference.
Brawner, meanwhile, rejected the idea of a military takeover in politics, saying it is not a solution to societal problems as he stressed the importance of protecting democratic values by ensuring the integrity of elections.
The AFP chief also emphasized the elections offer an opportunity for citizens to voice their concerns through their votes, encouraging them to choose leaders who will work to solve social problems.
In a related development, the Comelec reminded the public of the implementation of the nationwide gun ban starting January 12, in connection with the election period for the May 2025 midterm elections.
Poll chairman George Garcia said the gun ban would kick off at midnight of January 12, with heightened security protocols set to be implemented.
The ban on appointments, suspensions, and transfers in public office will also take effect.
Garcia clarified that having a license to carry firearms does not automatically exempt an individual from the ban.
The poll body also reminded the public to be aware of gun ban checkpoints that would be set up in strategic areas. Rex Espiritu, Vito Barcelo and Cherrie Villahermosa
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“This means that the court upheld that the form and substance of the petition are correct. Therefore, Mr. Yap was ordered to explain what he did regarding the said posts after he received the writ,” Dela Cruz said.
Earlier, Yap remained firm that his film was based on documented events.
“There is nothing personal. I am simply presenting what happened in the past as seen in publications from the 1980s. That has already been made public.”
“I did not say that Vic Sotto is the one referred to by
newest and largest ships of the Philippine Coast Guard, a key element of Manila's efforts to assert its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.
Last month, Tokyo granted Manila 1.6 billion yen ($10.6 million) aimed at beefing up its naval capabilities through their Official Security Assistance program launched in 2023. AFP
Charges mulled vs. LGU officials coddling POGOs
By Charles Dantes, Maricel V. Cruz, Vince Lopez, and Miguel C. Gil
LOCAL officials in areas hosting Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) may be charged with negligence for failing to curb the illegal activities, the Presidential AntiOrganized Crime Commission announced.
In a televised interview, PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz said negligent or complicit officials will be held accountable for failing to address the rampant presence of POGO activities in their jurisdictions.
"It cannot be denied that local government officials are aware of the presence of POGO operations in their areas," Cruz said.
"The President has said that these POGO operations cannot exist without the knowledge of the local government, especially at the barangay level," he added.
Cruz also warned property owners hosting underground POGO operations that they would face legal consequences, and even the possible seizure of their properties.
On Friday, Interior Secretary Juanito Victor "Jonvic" Remulla said he would ask the Parañaque City Local Government to explain why POGO operations still exist in the city despite a nationwide ban ordered by President Marcos.
"We will write to the LGU, ask them to show up, and also ask for an explanation of what really happened," he said.
The secretary was reacting to the arrest on Wednesday of some 400 individuals, mostly foreign nationals, involved in POGO-like activities at a company located in Parañaque.
He assured DILG will file charges as well as initiate deportation proceedings against individuals arrested during the raid in Barangay Tambo.
"Deportations or cases to be filed," Remulla said in a message to Manila Standard.
Meanwhile, a group of homeowners in a posh Parañaque City subdivision are convinced that illegal online gaming activities are clandestinely happening within their community despite the government’s total ban on POGOs and similar operations.
I AM MULTI, whose members are composed of Multinational Village residents, said they have compiled the addresses of 16 possible POGO locations within their sprawling subdivision.
In a letter to the Manila Standard, the group expressed willingness to participate in law enforcement agencies’ efforts to identify supposed “guerilla POGO” activities that defy the ban, which took full effect on January 1.
“The previous raids conducted indeed tamed down the excesses of Chinese activities in the village. However, we feel that they were coming back and are now more covert in their operations because of their volatile situation,” the residents added.
the title of the movie—they were the ones who said that. It is important for them to watch the entire film first. Thank you,” the filmmaker added.
Paloma was found dead in her apartment in 1985, with authorities ruling it a suicide. Her case, however, has been marked by allegations of sexual assault and coercion.
Yap’s camp also denied Sotto’s claim that he was not consulted on the upcoming film.
Fortun said Yap sent a copy of the script to Sotto to ask for his comments.
“The purpose was really for them to give comments about the script. Yap had followed up multiple times until finally, the scenes were already shot. It’s not our fault anymore,” said Fortun.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Solon seeks suspension of SSS premium hikes
THE chairman of the House Committee on Labor and Employment has appealed to President Marcos to suspend the scheduled contribution rate hike of the Social Security System (SSS) to protect workers from being further burdened with the reduction of their take-home pay.
“We call on President Marcos to suspend the rate increase first. Despite the more expensive cost of living that our countrymen are currently suffering, this additional charge will be a big blow because it will further reduce their capacity to support their families,” Rizal Rep. Fidel Nograles said.
The SSS is scheduled to implement a new hike in the monthly contribution of members starting this month in accordance with Republic Act 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018, which mandates the staterun pension to increase its contribution rate every two years.
In 2019, the contribution rate was set at 12 percent. It rose to 13 percent in 2021 and to 14 percent in 2023. For this year’s 15-percent increase, 10 percent would be shouldered by cemployers, while employees will pay the remaining five percent.
Maricel V. Cruz
Veloso reiterates plea for executive pardon
MARY Jane Veloso has reiterated her appeal for clemency from President Marcos following the recent grant of royal clemency to 220 Filipinos convicted of various offenses.
In a social media post, Edre Olalia, one of Veloso’s lawyers, said the clemency was timely as Veloso celebrated her 40th birthday on Friday.
Veloso was repatriated last month after spending almost 15 years in Indonesia's death row following conviction on drug charges. She is currently detained at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City where she celebrated her birthday. Pot Chavez
CHR to monitor state protection of OFWs
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday vowed to closely monitor the government’s compliance with international treaties and laws to protect migrant workers.
The CHR made the pledge in light of the slaying of a slain overseas Filipino worker in Kuwait, In a statement, the Commission acknowledged the efforts of the Department of Migrant Workers and Department of Foreign Affairs in seeking justice for 35-year-old Daphne Nacalaban.
Last Dec. 31, the DFA disclosed that Nacalaban’s body was found buried in the gardener’s yard of her employer’s residence in Saad AlAbdulla, Jahra. Rio N. Araja
DSWD to launch PWD unified ID
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Unified Identification (ID) system for persons with disabilities (PWDs) is expected to be pilot tested from January to June and will be rolled out across the country in July.
This was disclosed by executive director Glenda Relova of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), an attached agency of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The issuance of the unified ID system was one of the proposed recommendations to address the illegal issuance, sale, and utilization of fake Persons with Disability (PWD) ID.
“We had a round-table discussion... from there it was agreed that the DSWD will issue a unified ID system. We are just waiting for the terms of reference to be finalized so that we can iron out the different phases of the ID rerelease,” Relova told reporters at a news forum.
According to Relova, the members of the NCDA governing board, chaired by the DSWD, came up with recommenda-
tions to address concerns regarding the abuse on the availment of statutory discounts and privileges for PWDs as mandated by Republic Act (RA) 10754, also known as An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disability.
The creation of a unified ID system for PWDs will be managed by the DSWD and the NCDA, in collaboration with local government units (LGUs), through their respective Persons with Disability Affairs Offices (PDAO).
Relova said that during their initial discussion, the application, verification, and approval process will still be under the PDAO. The DSWD, on the other hand, will be the central author-
Supreme Court orders reopening of dismissed Dengvaxia cases
By Rio N. Araja
THE Supreme Court (SC) has ordered a reopening of 35 Dengvaxia-related cases some of which have been previously dismissed by a Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC).
This developed after the Office of the Solicitor General filed a petition for
certiorari challenging the RTC dismissal of eight of the complaints.
The SC directed a Quezon City family court to initiate a pre-trial procedure in the litigation the cases involving deaths of school children after being administered Dengvaxia vaccines against dengue.
“In view of the foregoing, in ac -
cordance with the Office of the Court Administrator Circular No. 105-2022, Acting Judge Cecilyn E.Villavert should hear and try Case Nos. RQZN-23-07131, R-QZN-23–07144, 07159 to 69. The OCC, RTC, Quezon City, is directed to forward the records of the cases to Branch 102, RTC, Quezon City. For your guidance
and compliance,” the two-page order of SC assistant court administrator Lilian Barribal-Co read. Sumachen Dominguez, Samahan ng mga Magulang, Anak at Biktima ng Dengvaxia (SMABD) president, viewed the SC’s directive as a welcome development after RTC Judge Cleto Villacorta III inhibited himself from the case.
ity that will issue the unified ID. The unified ID system will feature both a physical ID and a digital ID with the biometric data of the PWD to prevent fraud. The physical ID will be RFID (radio frequency identification) -enabled PVC cards with high-security features intended for offline use. Meanwhile, the digital ID will be accessible via a mobile app or web portal, with features such as QR codes for quick verification.
Relova pointed out that the unified ID system will employ a web-based portal that can be used for real-time updating and local-level ID verification linked to the Philippine Registry for PWDs.
Sandigan clears Binays, others in graft case
THE Sandiganbayan has acquitted former Vice President Jejomar Binay and his son, erstwhile Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr., and 16 others of criminal charges filed over the construction of the P1.3billion Makati Science High School (MSHS) from 2007 to 2013.
In an 86-page resolution, the antigraft courts' Special Fifth Division granted the demurrer to evidence of the accused and ordered the cases against them dismissed “for insufficiency of evidence.”
A demurrer to evidence is a pleading filed by an accused in a criminal case seeking the dismissal of the charges on alleged weakness of the prosecution's evidence. Under the rules of court, once the demurrer is granted, the case will be dismissed, thus the dismissal is deemed an acquittal.
The accused were charged with multiple counts of falsification of public documents under Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC) and multiple counts of violating Section 3(e) of Republic Act (RA) 3019, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Maricel V. Cruz
Speaker hails drop in unemployment
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has welcomed the decrease in unemployment reported by the authorities as a “positive development and a piece of good news.”
Romualdez made the observation in reaction to preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) Labor Force Survey showing that the number of jobless Filipinos dropped to 3.2 percent in November last year from 3.9 percent the previous month, equivalent to 1.66 million.
The underemployment rate also fell to 10.8 percent in November from 12.6 percent in October.
Romualdez said the decline in unemployment and underemployment numbers “means that the economy continues to expand under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and continues to create job and income opportunities for our people.”
“The right economic policies are driving our growth and generating jobs for jobless Filipinos. We are happy for those who have found employment and who are working longer hours than before,” he said.
“For those who remain unemployed, the government has various programs to help them. We hope that as the economy grows and create more jobs, they would eventually find employment,” the leader of the 307-strong House of Representatives said. He said among these programs are the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) and the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), which are being administered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers (TUPAD) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Maricel V. Cruz
FREEDOM AS BIRTHDAY GIFT. Mary Jane Veloso’s two sons and sisters, joined by members of the Migrante International, stage a demonstration at the foot of Mendiola Bridge near Malacañang to plead for executive clemency as a gift for Veloso who celebrates her 40 th birthday on Friday. She was repatriated last month after serving nearly 14 years in Indonesia’s death row. Danny Pata
Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila. Edd Castro CMAP INDUCTION. Secretary Jonvic Remulla of the Department of the Interior and Local Government administers the oath to the new officers of the Circulation Management Association of the Philippines at the DILG office in Quezon City. The inductees are
Eight million flock ‘Traslacion’
THIS year’s Feast of Jesus Nazareno drew over eight million devotees.Data from the Nazareno Operation Center released on Friday showed that 8,124,050 million devotees attended the annual religious event, including the Traslacion, or the procession from Quirino Grandstand in Luneta to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, nestled in the heart of Quiapo, Manila.
The procession reportedly started at 4:41 a.m. Thursday.
Of the number, 1,290,590 gathered at the Grandstand, while 387,010 people attended the procession.
This year’s crowd marked a significant increase from 2024’s figures which was at 6.5 million.
The majority of the devotees were at the church, numbering to 6,446,450.
The Traslacion 2025 started at 4:41 a.m. on Thursday, and lasted for 20 hours and 45 minutes, as it concluded at 1:26 a.m. Friday.
The procession is longer than the 14 hours and 59 minutes recorded last year.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said its Joint Task Force-National Capital Region
(JTF-NCR) and Metro Manila reservists played a key role in securing this year’s “Traslacion”.
More than 1,000 military personnel helped in securing the religious event.
Along with the Manila Police District, the National Capital Region Police Office, and other key agencies, the military contingent ensured the safety and security of the thousands of devotees who participated in this sacred annual tradition.
The image of Jesus Nazareno returned to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno or “Quiapo Church” ending a more than 20-hour procession in an intense display of the Filipinos’ Catholic faith.
Vince Lopez
PhilHealth further expands medical services package
By Ram Superable
THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Friday announced a significant expansion of its benefits package that covers peritoneal dialysis, kidney transplants, ischemic heart disease treatment, emergency care, and preventive oral health services.
“Last year, we made a promise to expand our coverage and prioritize the top ten most burdensome diseases, addressing the financial challenges these conditions bring to our members and their families,” said PhilHealth president and CEO Emmanuel Rufino Ledesma Jr. during his opening remarks.
According to Ledesma, PhilHealth has delivered a total of thirty upgraded benefit packages in under two years through its benefit development plan.
He added that PhilHealth introduced the latest set of benefits enhancements in December 2024, publishing the necessary instruments and circulars for the affected packages.
Coverage for patients suffering from ischemic heart disease increased by a remarkable 1,629%, while the reimbursement rate for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a critical nonsurgical procedure to clear blocked arteries, has surged to P523,853, significantly higher than the previous P30,300.
IN BRIEF
Tolentino says Senate to prioritize 4 key bills
SENATE Majority Leader Francis Tolentino announced on Friday that the Senate will prioritize four pivotal bills as the regular session resumes on January 13, 2025. Among these legislative measures is a proposal to postpone the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections originally scheduled for 2025, modernize the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), approve the amended Baguio City Charter, and increase the pension differentials for Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) employees. Tolentino indicated that the barangay and SK postponement, approved in a bicameral conference, would extend the terms of current local officials by two years. The urgency of modernizing the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) was also stressed by the senator, citing recent volcanic eruptions from Kanlaon and Taal. Tolentino noted that several local bills are queued for a second reading, while initiatives to reorganize the National Tax Research Center and enhance the mining regime are also part of the proposed legislative agenda. Ram Superable
BI agents intercept Filipina carrying cocaine THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) antiterrorist group (ATG) intercepted a Filipina woman found to be carrying cocaine worth more than P24 million at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The passenger, identified as Joy Dagonano Gulmatico, arrived from Sierra Leone aboard an Ethiopian Air flight at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. BI-ATG head Bienvenido Castillo III said that they monitored suspicious flight patterns taken by the subject, hence they immediately recommended that she be inspected by members of the NAIA drug interdiction task group (DITG). Bureau of Customs (BOC) personnel inspected Gulmatico’s luggage and found suspicious substances concealed inside the lining of 4 handbags and 1 suitcase.
NAIA-DITG members including personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP) Aviation Security Group, Airport Police Department, PNP Drug Enforcement Group, and National Bureau of Investigation assisted in the inspection. Vito Barcelo
‘Follow law on domestic workers’ wages’
SENATE President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada urged employers of domestic workers, known as “kasambahay,” in Metro Manila and the Caraga region to comply with new wage increases effective this month.
He emphasized that domestic workers have personal needs that must be addressed amid rising living costs.
Estrada, also the principal author of Republic Act No. 10361, or the Domestic Workers Act, said that this law protects kasambahays from abuse while ensuring they receive fair wages and are treated with dignity.
“Beyond the monthly wages earned by domestic workers, they also contribute significantly to their employers’ households, enhancing the quality of life for every family they serve on a daily basis,” the Senate leader stated. Ram Superable
PCSO obtains new global lottery certification
THE Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has obtained World Lottery Association (WLA) Level 2 Certification for Responsible Gaming, joining an elite group of lottery operators globally recognized for their commitment to responsible gaming practices. The PCSO said this achievement
NAIA opens new main arrival curbside
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE management of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) announced the opening of the main arrival curbside at Terminal 1 to all private vehicles, aiming to enhance the travel experience for all passengers by making it more inclusive and convenient. This move is part of New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) efforts to improve traffic flow and passenger comfort at the airport’s busiest terminal. Allowing all passengers to use the arrival curbside is a key feature of the newly reconfigured pickup system, designed to simplify pickups for private vehicles, ride-hailing services, and metered taxis, while also easing congestion.
The soft launch of this new system began on Friday, giving passengers and transport providers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the changes. Full implementation of the system is scheduled for Monday, allowing time to gather feedback and make any necessary adjustments for a smooth transition. The main arrival curbside features fourteen designated loading bays (A1 to A14) for private vehicle pickups. With this change, arriving passengers will no longer need to go to the ground floor passenger arrival extension area to meet their rides; they can now wait comfortably at the main arrival curbside. Additionally, Terminal Transfer shuttle bus services will operate from
came following the recommendation of an independent assessment panel that recognized PCSO’s dedication in promoting responsible gaming, while fulfilling its mission to raise funds for health and welfare programs.
The certification process involved a thorough evaluation of PCSO’s responsible gaming programs, focusing on measures to prevent underage participation, mitigate gaming-related risks, and educate the public on responsible play.
Lottery organizations that successfully implement responsible gaming initiatives based on the WLA Responsible Gaming Framework are given the WLA Level 2 Certification.
PCSO BANNER YEAR. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Mel Robles meets with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañang to present the awards and recognitions received by the PCSO during the past year.
‘OPLAN BAKLAS.’ The Quezon City government has intensified its ‘Oplan Baklas’ drive ahead of the May elections, taking down campaign materials placed in prohibited areas across the city.
OPINION
Words to live by
I HAVE long given up on New Year Resolutions. I’m not so good at turning over a new leaf, or changing a mindset, or breaking habits, with just the flip of a (virtual) calendar.
I’ve learned, however, that I could work with words. I’m sharing mine in this space today. A warning, though: My buzz words do not quite observe the rules of parallelism – they are a mix of four nouns, one verb, and one adjective, in no particular order of importance, stated for their brevity and punch than for any consideration of form.
Boundaries. I’m often described as nice or kind and accommodating. As one grows older, one realizes that this is not entirely a good thing. Some people, whether they are aware of it or not, will try to overstep and impinge upon your time, or space, or peace. Sometimes they get so carried away with their own concerns and act as though it were the most important thing in the world. Don’t apologize for setting boundaries; observe how people react when they have crossed yours and you call them out gently and diplomatically.
Balance. I’m a Gen Xer. We were taught to work hard and tough it out, to respect authority, and that being productive and planning with a timeline were ideal. These days, however, we’re finding that the values with which we were brought up are not absolute, and that they are not the only ways to live well. And so while I still believe that nothing beats hard work, glorifying busy-ness is a trap. We are more than our job titles and salaries and achievements, in the same way that we are more than our frustrations and failures. Working and pausing, doing and letting things be, being a person for others and practicing self care – these are tricky areas that we have to learn to navigate as we move along.
Stoic. I’ve been reading up on stoicism. I thought it was simply the ability to detach oneself from things, to be “nonchalant” in today’s words. It turns out that it is more about recognizing the things that are within one’s control and those that are not. I can do my best in all that I can control – my work, my behavior, my responses. Still, the outcomes will vary and I have no way of guaranteeing any single result. It is here I have to let go. After I have ensured that I have done all I could do, I utter: What will be, will be. Believe me, it sounds so much easier written down. In truth, especially for an overthinker, it is difficult to let go of scenarios in one’s head. Sometimes I have to
do mental exercises – say, holding a pair of scissors and cutting strings that tie me to an idea, a worry, even a person. Again, it’s a practice, a way of life and not a destination. It’s good to focus on what you can do today, and tomorrow will take care of itself.
Thrive. I call this column Chasing Happy emphasizing the chase, and acknowledging that Happy cannot truly be captured. Instead of being happy, it’s more realistic to aim to thrive. This does not mean a perfect state or the absence of adversity. This means a life I love, blunders and miscalculation included, and which enables me to pause and think and imagine how I could do better. It’s a life I can look back on, extract lessons from, and ultimately write and talk about with gusto.
Mind you: they sound so much easier written down.
Meaning. One particularly melancholic afternoon, I was sitting on a pew at the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice at UP, musing about the things not quite coming together in my life. Call it epiphany, or a divine whisper, or perhaps a timely message from my enlightened self or a higher being. “That’s because you’re seeking validation and recognition. Try meaning and purpose, you’ll never go wrong.” I thought the realization was creepy at first, because it literally just came to me while I was sitting there. Now I know it’s grace. Impermanence. “Nothing lasts” is not some bitter utterance or a romcom plot gone awry. It’s a fact that we would all go at some point. While here, experiencing something beautiful is always a gift, whether it is a breathtaking view from a window, a relationship or friendship, or a certain “golden phase” in one’s life. Unhappiness comes from the expectation that it will always remain that way. Know that everything is fleeting -- it lends a poignance to the moment when you’re beholding the view, or spending time with the friend, or reveling in your success. A more comforting thought: in the same way, dark days won’t be permanent as well. What’s your buzz word?
adellechua@gmail.com
Two years of ‘fool’s
THE US sent the Philippines, with the conspiratorial consent of its president, into a “fool’s errand” the past two years, assigning the Philippines to bait China into clashes with Philippine maritime security forces in a patently American strategy named “assertive transparency.”
That was aimed at “exacting a reputational cost” or labelling China as a bully against the “poor, little Philippines.” Unfortunately for the US it hasn’t worked and now they are pushing Filipinos to own the failure.
A Financial Times article titled “Philippines wrestles with how to face down China while policing 7,000 islands” published on Dec. 31, 2024 had President Bongbong Marcos, Jr.’s Philippine National Security Council official Jonathan Malaya admit that: “We cannot go toe to toe with China... We are not a rising superpower like China who has enormous resources at their disposal, so we have to live with what we have.”
That is clearly a new and more modest tone from just a year ago. Jonathan Malaya now sounds so forlorn, so alone, when just a year ago, he sounded so gung-ho with the gang led by Admiral Sam Paparo of the United States Indo-Pacific Com-
EDITORIAL
Hear ye, hear ye, La Niña is here
THE climate pattern La Niña, which started to exhale its impact on the Philippines in the latter part of 2024, is expected to persist during the first quarter of 2025.
Meaning, this basically agricultural country will have extreme weather events that could cause extensive agricultural damage and worsen food security conditions.
In layman’s term, the Philippines, which has been having rain showers every afternoon, may experience a higher chance of thunderstorms and tropical cyclone occurrence.
This means La Niña may bring above normal rainfall over some parts of the country during the quarter, with adverse impacts like floods and landslides over vulnerable areas.
errand’
mand—ready to sail together with the Philippines along with Japan and Australia, in “joint patrols” in the South China Sea and even near the Taiwan Island to confront imagined invaders of the region and localities near and around the Philippines and its claimed territories or Exclusive Economic Zones.
It’s time to wise up and end the master-fool relationship
In Aug. 2023, various Manila and international media headlined, “Philippines, US to mount West PH Sea Joint patrols by end-2023” quoting NSC Assistant Director-General Jonathan Malaya saying the country’s key strategies in the West Philippine Sea are “strengthening partnerships with other countries and allies supporting a rules-based order:
“The discussions on joint patrols are in their advanced stages... That’s going to be within this year.”
Since Feb. 2023 to last Dec. 2024, the Philippines had been escalating the tough
Given these possibilities we look at the gross production value in the Agriculture market which is projected to amount to US$29.42-b in 2025, with the annual growth rate of 0.34 percent expected in 2025-2029, resulting in gross production value of US$29.82-b in 2029.
talk with loud media megaphones, and threatening joint patrols in the contested areas not only with the US but also Japan, Australia and others.
Malaya was always at the frontlines, not only against China but also against Filipinos who disputed the operation of the US strategy of “assertive transparency” provocations.
In Aug. 2023, Malaya accused conscientious Filipinos exposing the US-proxy conspiracy to divide the Philippines and China using the South China Sea dispute as “political operators” and “traitors.”
The disputes have existed since the 1990s and have been dealt with through peaceful dialogues until 2023 when the US’ “assertive transparency” strategy was accepted by Bongbong Marcos, Jr.’s clique.
The Financial Times report quotes Vice-Admiral Alfonso Torres, of the Philippines’ Western Command, saying about China, “I never expected someone who wants to be a superpower to behave like Vikings...”
We know that agriculture, a major sector in the Philippine economy, is ranked third, behind only services and industry and is rapidly evolving as global demands rise and climate challenges intensify..
Experts say the challenges the Philippines will face include soil degradation, deforestation, and natural disasters.
Its output includes staples like rice and corn as well as export crops like coffee, cavendish banana, pineapple and pineapple products, coconut, sugar and mango.
Experts have said from precision agriculture and vertical farming to genetic engineering and robotics, cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the future of farming, promising greater sustainability, efficiency and profitability.
One thing known is that climate change has made weather as a result of La Niña more extreme, and this may increase risks of flooding, especially in low-lying agricultural zones.
We try to be respectful of our military officers but they insult themselves by showing off their misunderstanding of reality, China does not want to be a superpower – it is a superpower and the Philippines has known that all along.
The fact is the Philippines under Bongbong Marcos, Jr. thought it could play off the White Anglo-Saxons Protestant superpower—the real Vikings progenies—the US against China in China’s own neighborhood where every country is friendly to China at the time China is rising as the most powerful nation in history.
Despite its growing power, China has sought harmony with all, including seeking to meet the Philippines “halfway” throughout the past two years of provocations.
Throughout the millennium of history between the Filipinos and China, the relations have been one of mutually beneficent trade and cultural exchanges. In the struggle against Western co-
But the above normal rainfall conditions from January to March due to La Niña conditions may adversely affect the country’s agricultural muscle.
With above normal rainfall conditions, experts say the challenges the Philippines will face include soil degradation, deforestation, and natural disasters. These are environmental and climate change issues that can harm the sustainability and quality of food products. As a result, fresh and healthy food options may become less available, which can impact consumers. Many have pointed out that farmers must meet the changing needs of our planet and the expectations of regulators, consumers, and food processors and retailers.
There are increasing pressures from climate change, soil erosion and biodiversity loss and from consumers’ changing tastes in food and concerns about how it is produced.
We are glad the government, recognizing that climate change is essentially a global crisis, has enacted the Climate Change Act which provides the policy framework with which to systematically address the growing threats on community life and its impact on the environment as well as agriculture.
lonialism, China supported the Philippine Revolution with arms supply against Spanish and the American colonizers, and against Japanese imperialism, a Chinese contingent – the Wah Chi – fought side-by-side with the guerilla Hukbalahap forces. In President Duterte’s time, China donated countless facilities for drugrehabilitation programs of the Philippine government, built the Chico River Irrigation Dam, gave bridges crossing the Pasig River and over the Davao River, contributed PhilSCAT rice research, launched the Kaliwa Dam water supply for Metro-Manila project, supported flood control infrastructure, boosted tourism and agri exports ad nauseum, yet connivance with the U.S. has gained nothing and lost so much for the Philippines.
The two years of “assertive transparency” has been an American “fool’s errand” for the Philippines. It’s time to wise up and end the master-fool relationship.
Security chief urges ‘no bloodshed’ in Yoon arrest
SEOUL—South Korea’s presidential security chief said Friday there must be no bloodshed if investigators attempt to execute another arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid.
Yoon has refused questioning and last week resisted arrest in a tense stand-off between his guards and investigators after his short-lived power grab plunged South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades.
“I understand many citizens are concerned about the current situation where government agencies are in conflict and confrontation,” Presiden-
tial Security Service (PSS) chief Park Chong-jun told reporters Friday before he was questioned at the Korean National Police Agency.
“I believe that under no circumstances should there be physical clashes or bloodshed.”
Investigators seeking to question Yoon on insurrection charges linked to his ill-fated declaration of martial law secured a new arrest warrant this week after an initial seven-day order expired on Monday.
Several hundred of his supporters have rushed to the presidential residence, braving sub-zero temperatures to
defend him.
Rival protests have either called for Yoon’s impeachment to be declared invalid or for him to be detained immediately.
Yoon would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested if investigators are able to detain him.
His legal team have said they will not comply with the current warrant.
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) has declared it would “prepare thoroughly” for the second arrest attempt. AFP
Los Angeles fires rage on as National Guard soldiers called in
LOS
ANGELES—Massive wildfires that engulfed whole neighborhoods and displaced thousands in Los Angeles raged out of control Thursday, authorities said, as California’s National Guard soldiers readied to hit the streets to help quell disorder.
Swaths of the United States’ second-largest city lay in ruins, with smoke blanketing the sky with an acrid smell pervading almost every building.
A vast firefighting operation continued for a third day, bolstered by water-dropping helicopters thanks to a temporary lull in winds, but new fires continued to spring up.
Amid the chaos, looting has broken out, with a curfew planned for affected areas, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said, while the state’s National Guard were set to spring into action.
“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has officially requested the support of the California National Guard for both fires,” Luna told reporters.
bers, who were prepared to staff checkpoints and help control traffic, were part of a thousands-strong deployment of state personnel.
“We’re throwing everything at our disposal—including our National Guard service members—to protect communities in the days to come,” he said.
“And to those who would seek to take advantage of evacuated communities, let me be clear: looting will not be tolerated.”
Luna said his officers were patrolling evacuation zones and would arrest anyone who was not supposed to be there.
COPENHAGEN, Denmark—
Denmark’s prime minister said Thursday she had reached out to US President-elect Donald Trump following his remarks about taking control of Greenland, which Denmark said were being taken seriously. Trump, who takes office on January 20, set off alarm bells on Tuesday when he refused to rule out military intervention to bring the Panama Canal and Greenland under US control.
Denmark has said it is open to talks on US interests in the Arctic, but the prime minister has insisted that “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.” European leaders have also supported the sovereignty of the Arctic island that is an autonomous Danish territory. Russia has voiced concern for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen summoned leaders of the parties in Denmark’s parliament, including Greenland’s two representatives, to a meeting Thursday to brief them on the government handling of events.
Few details emerged from the two-hour talks, but Frederiksen told reporters after that her office had reached out to Trump though the two had not spoken yet.
“We have proposed a conversation between us. I don’t think anything concrete will happen until the president-elected is installed,” she said. AFP
Governor Gavin Newsom said the California National Guard mem-
Danish PM reaches out to Trump over Greenland remarks Biden hails Aoun as ‘right leader’ for Lebanon
WASHINGTON, DC – US President Joe Biden welcomed the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanon’s president on Thursday (Friday, Manila time), saying in a statement the army chief was the “right leader” for the warbattered country.
“President Aoun has my confidence.
I believe strongly he is the right leader for this time,” said Biden, adding that Aoun would provide “critical leadership” in overseeing an IsraelHezbollah ceasefire.
Aoun’s election by Lebanese lawmakers ended a more than twoyear vacancy and could mark a step towards lifting the country out of
US President-elect Donald Trump to be sentenced for hush money conviction
NEW YORK—Donald Trump will be sentenced Friday (Saturday in Manila) for covering up hush money payments to a porn star despite the US President-elect’s last-ditch efforts to frustrate a process that would make him the first felon in the White House. The judge has indicated, however, that Trump will not face prison —even though the 34 counts of falsifying business records on which he was convicted in May 2024 carry potential prison time. It is instead anticipated that he will receive the mildest criminal sanction available, an unconditional discharge—a relatively uncommon measure.
Sentencing, which Trump is expected to attend virtually, will happen in the scruffy Manhattan courtroom that was the scene of the trial’s high drama, legal wrangling and vitriolic personal attacks
by the divisive Republican.
The trial saw Trump forced to look on as a string of witnesses testified that he had fraudulently covered up illicit payments to porn star Stormy Daniels in an effort to stop her disclosing their tryst ahead of the 2016 presidential election, which he ultimately won.
Daniels gave toe-curling testimony that included details about her sexual encounter with Trump—which he has always denied—as well as his flirting and interest in the adult film industry.
The judge intervened to stop more explicit testimony. Trump had made an eleventh-hour plea for a suspension of the criminal proceedings to the nation’s highest court after a New York State appeals court dismissed his effort to have the hearing delayed, and the state’s top court declined to act on the request. AFP
financial meltdown.
“We finally have a president,” Biden said later, at the end of a meeting on the response to major wildfires in the US city of Los Angeles.
He said he had spoken to Aoun by phone on Thursday for “20 minutes to half an hour,” describing the Lebanese leader as a “first-rate guy.”
Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Aoun’s election “a moment of historic opportunity,” which offered Lebanon a chance to “establish durable peace and stability.”
Aoun, who turns 61 on Friday, faces the difficult task of overseeing the fragile ceasefire with Israel in
south Lebanon.
He must also name a prime minister capable of implementing the reforms demanded by international creditors in return for a desperately needed bailout.
Aoun faces the tasks of overseeing a fragile ceasefire in south Lebanon and naming a prime minister capable of implementing the reforms demanded by international creditors in return for a desperately needed bailout.
He said he would call for parliamentary consultations as soon as possible on naming a new prime minister. AFP
But with such a huge area scorched by the fires, including the well-to-do Pacific Palisades and an area around Altadena, evacuees feared not enough was being done. Some were taking matters into their own hands. AFP
IN BRIEF
Blinken seeks to avert Syria turmoil ROME—US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has agreed in talks in Rome with European counterparts on the need to encourage stability in Syria, officials said, as Turkey threatens Kurdish forces in the war-torn country. Blinken was on the last leg of what likely is his final trip as the top US diplomat before President Joe Biden makes way for President-elect Donald Trump later this month.
On a trip that already took him to South Korea, Japan and France, Blinken headed to a Renaissance-era villa in Rome for a working dinner on Syria. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, speaking to reporters as the talks opened Thursday, said Western powers were seeking a “stable and united Syria” a month after Islamist-led rebels toppled longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad. The Western powers agreed on the need to protect minorities after the fall of Assad, who ruled with an iron fist but was largely secular. The officials also called for “all groups in Syria to respect human rights, uphold international humanitarian law” and ensure Syria does not pose a threat to its neighbours or serve as a base for terrorism”, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said. Concerns have mounted over Turkey’s threats against Syrian Kurdish fighters, who have effectively run their own state during the brutal civil war engulfing Syria. AFP
Ukraine’s French-trained brigade rocked by scandal WITH its soldiers trained in France and high-profile endorsements from the French and Ukrainian presidents, the “Anne of Kyiv” brigade was supposed to be a flagship unit for Ukraine’s army. But just months after being created, it finds itself fighting two enemies -- Russians across the battlefield and an internal scandal that has shocked the Ukrainian military establishment.
Kyiv has been rocked by reports that hundreds of troops deserted the unit -- most before being sent into conflict and a handful while undergoing training in France.
The controversy is being seen as a snapshot of familiar issues that have plagued Ukraine’s army since Russia invaded three years ago, and comes at a critical political and military juncture for Kyiv.
“Yes, there are problems, we are aware of them,” Land Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapaty
HISTORIC CELEBRATION. A billboard celebrating the election of army chief Joseph Aoun, as Lebanon’s president, is seen in Beirut on Jan. 9. Aoun, who turned 61 on Friday, is a political neophyte whose position as head of one of the country’s most respected institutions helped end a two-year deadlock. AFP
Medvedev ready to bring down Sinner, Alcaraz
MELBOURNE—Daniil Medvedev
said Friday he had one of his best preseasons ever in a bid to finally win an Australian Open, pledging to be a “disruptor” against Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
The feisty Russian has reached three of the last four finals at Melbourne Park, outplayed by Novak Djokovic in 2021 before a heartwrenching defeat to Rafael Nadal a year later.
He imploded against Sinner last year, crashing in five sets after being two up.
Medvedev delayed his arrival in Australia this year due to the birth of his second child and he has not played since the ATP Finals in November.
But the world number five said it had only given him more time to prepare.
“I don’t want to make like too big of a statement, but I felt like it was one of the best pre-seasons I made,” he said.
“I feel great, because it gave me extra time to practise. I think we’re going to see a lot of interesting things from me, and I’m looking
forward to it.”
The 28-year-old, whose only major success was the US Open in 2021, failed to win a title last year as Sinner and Alcaraz became the Grand Slam kings.
But he is ready to step up his game and take the challenge to them.
“Last year, except the Australian Open, I was less of a disruptor because Carlos and Jannik were beating me a lot of times,” he said.
“A lot of tournaments I was getting to the good stages but not able to beat them.
“I would like to become again ... let’s say a disruptor, because it means that I will be able to get to these later stages and win them.
“At this moment they’re clearly the favourites, and that’s normal. I try to develop something (in the off-season), and let’s see if it works.”
Medvedev will open his campaign against Thai wildcard Kasidit Samrej. AFP
PAL Interclub’s return to Bacolod celebrates triumph of human spirit
WHEN the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub returns to Bacolod next month, the triumph of the human spirit will be at the back of most players’ minds as the last time the event was held there, action at Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club and Bacolod Golf and Country Club was one of the last events held before COVID-19 ground all of sports in the world to a halt within the next few days.
Less than a week after Manila Southwoods and Canlubang won the Men’s Regular and Seniors divisions titles, respectively, that lockdowns were ordered worldwide because of the pandemic that would drag for more than two years.
And from Feb. 7 to 21, the courses formerly known as Marapara and Binitin will again be the venues for the event’s 76th playing where Southwoods shoots for a fourth straight crown and Del Monte a repeat of the upset it posted on home turf last year in Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon.
“Bacolod has been the site of many memorable Interclub championships and we are sure of having the same keen competition this year,” PAL president Stanley K. Ng said. “As we return to the City of Smiles, let’s also celebrate the triumph of the human spirit through the sport we love as we wish every team the best out there next month.”
Known as the country’s unofficial team golf cham-
pionship, the Interclub was forced to take a two-year leave because of the pandemic and resumed in 2023 in Cebu where Southwoods again ruled regular play and Luisita dislodged Canlubang.
Seniors action gets going first on Feb. 10, with the men starting their 72-hole championship eight days later. Competition in the 55-and-over division is deemed to be a wide-open race this year with some of the talents that have beefed up Cangolf and Luisita either begging off or playing for other squads.
Canlubang and Luisita have combined to win a total of 29 titles, with the Sugar Barons holding an 11-5 edge since 2006 after snapping the Luisitans’ six-year reign that started in 2006.
In 24 years, only Del Monte was able to break that dual stranglehold of Senior play, and the Bukidnonbased bets will come to Bacolod with basically the same lineup that posted that upset last year.
Bumina-ang, Miado added to ONE Fight Night 28
ONE Friday Fights contract winner Carlo Bumina-ang will target a bounce-back win and Jeremy Miado will move up to a higher weight class at ONE Fight Night 28 on February 8 inside Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
After losing in his main roster debut, Bumina-ang looks to rebound against Song Min Jong in a three-round bantamweight MMA bout.
The Team Lakay representative saw his five-fight winning streak snapped against Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu, but “The Bull” remains confident with his ability to return to his dangerous, hardhitting ways. While he won’t have it easy against the Korean, especially as Song remains unbeaten since moving into the bantamweight division, he already has an advantage – at least when it comes to scouting.
The last time Song experienced a loss, it was against Bumina-ang’s teammate in former ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Geje Eustaquio. This gives him a leg-up in preparing for the Korean striker.
Miado, on the other hand, hopes the new weight class will bring better fortune as he takes on the dangerous
of
Gilbert Nakatani in a three-round flyweight MMA clash. Once on the cusp of breakthrough in ONE’s strawweight MMA division, Miado dropped four consecutive bouts against quality competition, prompting his move to a higher weight class.
It will be a tough transition against Nakatani, who gave ONE Flyweight MMA World Title contender Yuya Wakamatsu fits in his ONE debut.
The pair will join what’s already looking like a stacked card for Philippine MMA. Lito Adiwang takes on
#5-ranked strawweight Keito Yamakita, and Lions Nation MMA’s Jeremy Pacatiw battles Ibrahim Dauev.
In the main event of the night, twosport striking king Prajanchai PK Saenchai defends his Muay Thai strap against dangerous Ellis Badr Barboza.
Sportradar reports match-fixing decline in ‘24
ST. GALLEN, SWITZERLAND—
After consecutive years of detecting rising numbers of suspicious matches, match-fixing at all levels of global sport registered a notable decline in 2024, according to the annual integrity report (Integrity in Action 2024 Global Analysis & Trends) published by Sportradar Integrity Services, a unit of Sportradar (NASDAQ:SRAD). Throughout 2024, Sportradar Integrity Services monitored more than 850,000 matches across 70 sports worldwide and 1,108 suspicious matches were identified, a 17% decrease from 2023. The highest number of suspicious matches were found across Europe, the region historically facing the most significant integrity issues. However, the year still ended with a 34% reduction in suspicious matches overall in this territory with 439 matches identified compared to 668 in 2023. Africa also finished with a considerable decline with 69 suspicious matches detected, a 36% decrease from 108 matches the year before.
Notably, the world’s most popular sport, soccer, saw a considerable downturn, with 721 suspicious matches detected in 2024, a reduction of 18% from 881 matches in 2023. Moreover, Brazilian soccer, which has been affected by match-fixing cases in recent years, recorded a marked decrease of 48% with 57 suspicious matches discovered last year, down from 110 in 2023. Nevertheless, despite the overall reduction in the number of suspicious matches detected, match-fixing remains a persistent issue worldwide.
Sportradar uses advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) through its Universal Fraud Detection System (UFDS) to monitor competitions and identify irregular betting patterns. While AI flags unusual activity, such as substantial wagers on unlikely outcomes, Sportradar’s team of integrity experts is crucial in confirming match-fixing activities for further investigation.
Andreas Krannich, Executive Vice President, Integrity, Rights Protection & Regulatory Services, Sportradar, said: “While the notable reduction in suspicious matches in 2024 gives us reason to be optimistic, it also signals the need for continued vigilance and innovation, given that the number remains significant.”
Fuertes, Aludo crowned 18-under President’s Cup Masters’ champs
STEPHEN Fuertes of Digos City, Davao
France Vhiele
Fuertes
6-3, while Aludo whipped Dhea Angela Cua, 6-0, 6-0, in the event held in honor of Philta president Eric Olivarez.
Other winners in the boys division were Al Tristan Licayan of General Trias City, Cavite over Gavin Kraut of Manila, 6-3, 6-3 (U16); Anthony Bjorn Castigador of Iloilo City over Julius Otoc of Pigcawayan, Cotabato, 6-4, 6-4 (U14); and Francisco De Juan III over Jan Caleb Villeno, 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 (U12), while Everett Enzo Niere prevailed over Boss JM Ente, 5-3, 4-0, in the unisex 10-under. Jayden Reece Ballado of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija out-
played Khalilah Kate Imalay of Danao City, Cebu, 7-5, 6-2 (U16); Maristella Torrecampo of Naga City, Camarines Sur downed Michellen Alexa Cruspero of Tayasan, Negros Oriental, 6-0, 6-1, (U14) and Etha Nadine Seno of Bogo City, Cebu rallied past Shaner Gabaldon of Roxas, Isabela, 6-2, 6-7 (1), 6-4 (U12) in other final results of the tournament which kicked off the 2025 season of the Palawan Pawnshop National Tennis Championships. Champions in the doubles category were Fuertes and Dilao (U18), Pete Rafael Bandala and Kraut (U16), Castigador and Jairo Flores (U14), Jairus Peralta and Gabriel Vitaliano (U12), Niera and Rafael Cablitas (U10), Aludo and Sofia Moreno (U18), Imalay and Cielo May Gonzales (U16), Arriana Maglana and Cyrel Mae Sanchez (U14), and Francine Wong and Leanne Barrido (U12).
del Sur and Stefi Marithe Aludo of Philippine Tennis Academy were crowned 18-under champions in the President’s Cup Masters 8 at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center on Friday.
defeated
Dilao of Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, 6-2,
Ste Marithe Aludo and Anthony Bjorn Castigador received the Most Valuable Player award from Palawan Pawnshop National Tennis Championships coach John Mari Altiche and Philippine Tennis Association Executive Director Tonette Mendoza. (Contributed photo)
Two
the most exciting Filipino ghters -- Carlo Bumina-ang (left) annd Jeremy Miado will bolster an already loaded February event for the Philippines.
Russia’s Daniil Medvedev hits a return during a practice session ahead of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne. AFP
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
PH futsal women’s team drops Pinay5 moniker
By Peter Atencio
THE Philippine national women’s futsal won’t be using the moniker Pinay5 in its coming campaign Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Futsal Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
Officials of the Philippine Football Federation said this after they named Spanish coach Rafa Merino Rodriguez to handle a new set of players that will make up the squad.
“We just adopted that name when the players (of the previous members of the team) used it. But it was trademarked. And now, we have no intention of using the name Pinay5,” said PFF general secretary general Gelix Mercader.
Mercader said this before Team Philippines and Merino left for AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers on Tuesday. The meet will be held from Jan. 11 to 19 at the Yunusobod Sports Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
The 35-year-old Merino took over from Vic Hermans last Dec. 26, three days after the latter was relieved from his duties, following Team Philippines’ bad showing in the recent 2024 ASEAN Women’s Futsal Championship.
“I’m excited to be in the Philippine team. I’m excited to do what I can for this team,” said Merino, who talked about his responsibilities with the national squad.
The changes in the composition of the squad and its coaches drew the ire of former manager Daniel Moran and his supporters.
A letter from Moran was sent to the PFF, expressing his concerns over the usage of the name Pinay5. Moran and his group was responsible for the formation of the first batch of players known as the Pinay5, with many booters coming from the Tuloy sa Don Bosco Foundation.
The players, led by Malditas’ football booters Isabella Flannigan and Katrina Guilliou, started preparing for the tournament during a four-day camp from Dec. 26 to 30.
Lineker sees ‘test of fire’ vs. Kulabdam
FORMER ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion John “Hands of Stone” Lineker is looking to continue his rise in the world of Muay Thai, but this time he’s taking a massive leap.
The Brazilian heavy hitter faces the biggest test in his journey in “The Art of Eight Limbs” when he tackles two-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion
Debuting PH lacrosse team clinches spot in world meet
By Randy M. Caluag
IN a stunning debut on the international stage, the Philippines clinched a spot in the 2026 World Women’s Lacrosse Championships following back-to-back victories in the ongoing Asia-Pacific Championships in Queensland, Australia.
The unranked Philippine team, competing in its first-ever international tournament, delivered commanding performances in Pool A
eliminations with an upset win over world no. 19 China, 15-3, followed by a dominant 14-2 win against world no. 16 Hong Kong, earning a
semifinal berth.
The Philippines was set to face Japan in the semifinals on Friday.
Chinese Taipei and Australia, alongside the Philippines, also secured semifinal spots with perfect 2-0 records. Notably, Chinese Taipei made history with a 13-10 victory over New Zealand, qualifying for its first-ever World Lacrosse Women’s Championship appearance in 2026, to be held in Japan.
The Philippine roster showcases a blend of talent, selected through rigorous tryouts and intensive
training camps over the past year. Standout athletes include senior defender Kaila Stasulli from Jacksonville University, Princeton University stars Sarah Nelson and Olivia Pugh, goalkeeper Cailey Canessa from Florida Tech, and Kylie Yap, who also represents the Philippines in the U20 Filipinas football program Lacrosse, now recognized as an Olympic sport, involves players using a stick with a netted head to pass and shoot a small rubber ball into the opposing team’s goal.
PH taekwondo holds assembly, expects banner year
WHAT’S in store for Philippine taekwondo for the year 2025 and beyond—its directions, goals and expectations—will be tackled assiduously as the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) holds its annual National Instructor’s General Assembly Meeting on Sunday, Jan. 12, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Grand Master Hong Sung-chon, the main proponent of the popular Korean sport in the country, and his able lieutenants, led by Secretary-General Rocky Samson, will preside the daylong affair as they intend to discuss an array of great possibilities for their athletes as well as the association.
“Grand Master Hong is excited for the first activity of the PTA, and even us, are also motivated and inspired as we are going to set the directions, targets and expectations for 2025,” said Samson.
“Left Meteorite” Kulabdam at ONE Fight Night 27 this Saturday, January 11, in Bangkok, Thailand. Lineker took a liking to Muay Thai in 2024, scoring two explosive KO wins over Asa Ten Pow and Alexey Balyko in consecutive months late last year. But he knows that he hasn’t faced anyone like Kulabdam, who’s coming off an impressive knockout win over Suablack this past September.
“I’ve been following Kulabdam. I’ve watched some fights, and he’s a guy who has a very versatile game, a dangerous guy. I believe it will be a test of fire for me,” Lineker said.
“Kulabdam is a guy who grew up doing Muay Thai. He was practically born doing Muay Thai. In Thailand, you are born training Muay Thai, so it will definitely be a big test for me.”
While Lineker respects Kulabdam’s capabilities, he’s confident with his own style – his boxing.
Sure, it’s not the full package that Muay Thai purists may be looking for, but the power he possesses in his hands may be enough to carry him through more experienced opposition – fighters just like Kulabdam.
The year 2024 was worth remembering for PTA with Tachiana Mangin becoming the first Filipino world junior champion in 28 years after topping her event in World Taekwondo Junior Championships.
GOVERNMENT raised the ante on its support for the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025 with the private sector significantly chipping in for the country’s first-time and solo hosting of the prestigious tournament set September 12 to 18.
“We’re grateful for all the work that has been put in for the Philippines to be ready to host this very exciting sports tourism event,” said Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, co-chair of the Executive Board of the Local Organizing Committee with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and William Vincent Araneta Marcos, son of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos.
“It’s for the country and we’re very confident that this will be a very memorable and successful hosting by the Philippines that will bring volleyball fans and players from all over the world,” Frasco added.
The LOC Executive Board buckled down to work with its first comprehensive meeting at the Philippine National
More than 700 PTA certified instructors, including regional management committee chairmen, and the top brass of the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines taekwondo associations, are expected to join the assembly. Also up for discussions are the national and regional development programs, national and international competitions scheduled for the year. As in the past, the association does not only intends to take part, but stamp its class and win medals in major events such as the SEA Games in Chonburi, Thailand this December,
and
Volleyball Federation (PNVF) offices that also serves as the headquarters for the FIVB MWCH 2025 at The BonifacioPrime in Taguig City. Joining Frasco were sports patron Manuel V. Pangilinan, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, FIVB executive vice president and AVC and PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, PNVF officials Tonyboy Liao and Dr. Arnel Hajan, Karl Chan, Charo Soriano and secretary-general Donaldo Caringal and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann.
“This is reminiscent of the preparations we made for the FIBA World Cup [2023], but this time it’s 32 countries, so double the number of the participating countries,” said Pangilinan, who’s Chairman Emiritus of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.
“It’s bigger in participation of countries and tourist arrivals and we’re pleased to partner with government in this effort.” Pangilinan said.
The Filipinas erupt in celebration after their quali cation for the World Championship was ashed on the big screen. Photo from World Lacrosse
World Taekwondo Championships in Wuxi, China, Asian Taekwondo Championships in Islambad, Pakistan,
World Cadet Taekwondo Championships in Fujairah, UAE. Registration starts at 9 a.m. followed by a practical review of new Poomsae rules and Referee Hand Signal.
Certi ed instructors will converge at the Ninoy Aquino Statium for taewondo’s annual general assembly.
John Lineker
Members of the board of the Local Organizing Committee for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship (MWCH) 2025 buckle down to work 245 days before the prestigious tournament set September 12 to 28 at the Philippine National Volleyball Federation offices serving as the headquarters of the MWCH on Friday afternoon at The BonifacioPrime in Taguig City. They are (from left) sports patron Manuel V. Pangilinan, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, FIVB executive vice president and AVC and PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, PNVF officials Tonyboy Liao and Dr. Arnel Hajan, Karl Chan, Charo Soriano and secretary-general Donaldo Caringal, Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
FDI net inflows in October 2024
FDI net inflows in September 2024
$1 billion $368 million $7.7 billion
FDI net inflows in 10 months of 2024
FDI net inflows jumped 50% to $1b in October
By Darwin G. Amojelar
FOREIGN direct investment (FDI)
net inflows jumped 50.2 percent to $1 billion in October 2024 from $681 million in the same period in 2023, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday. It was also higher than $368 million in FDI net inflows registered in September 2024, data from the BSP show.
The increase in FDI net inflows was due to the 60.7-percent growth in nonresidents’ net investments in debt instruments to $839 million from $522 million. Nonresidents’ net investments in equity capital, other than reinvestment of earnings, rose 34.1 percent to $100 million from $74 million.
Meanwhile, the growth in FDI inflows was moderated by a marginal contraction in nonresidents’ reinvestment of earnings.
This went down by 0.9 percent to $83 million from $84 million in October 2023. Equity capital placements in October 2024 came largely from Japan, the United States and Singapore. These investments were directed primarily to the manufacturing, real estate, and construction industries.
The BSP said the October figure brought the total FDI net inflows in the first 10 months to $7.7 billion, up by 8.2 percent from $7.1 billion net inflows a year ago.
The BSP’s FDI statistics are different from the investment data of other government sources. FDIs cover actual investment inflows, while the approved foreign investments data published by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) are sourced from investment promotion agencies (IPAs). These represent investment commitments, which may not necessarily be fully realized in a given period.
PH on track to achieve upper mid-income status
TIt said the government’s ability to implement reforms, manage inflationary pressures and boost investor confidence would determine whether it could sustain long-term growth and economic stability.
2024–2025: Toward Upper MiddleIncome Status”. It identifies key drivers of progress such as enhanced macroeconomic stability, effective governance and deeper integration into international trade and investment networks.
This growth is further fueled by rising household consumption, supported by improved employment, steady remittance inflows and election spending, it said.
The forecasts are detailed in the PIDS study “Macroeconomic Prospects of the Philippines in
The PIDS expects the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to grow 6.1 percent in 2025, bolstered by easing inflation and policy rates that will enhance consumption and investment.
BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas
Governor Eli Remolona Jr. expressed concern about the potential challenges from US President-elect Donald Trump’ policies that could impact the Philippine economy.
“We’re in good shape, and we’re better prepared to face the challenges ahead of us,” Remolona said in a speech at a Rotary Club membership meeting.
“The challenges I would say have to do with the uncertainty about what Mr. Trump may do. He has threatened tariffs, he has threatened to deport millions of people from the United States. There is likely to be some
HE Philippines is set to achieve upper middleincome status if it can sustain its growth trajectory and meet key targets through strategic investments, policy reforms and a favorable economic environment, according to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS). BSP ready for challenges related to Trump’s policies BCDA: John Hay takeover a
By Othel V. Campos
STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chairperson Hilario Paredes credited the whole-of-government approach for the recovery of Camp John Hay in Baguio City on Jan. 6, 2025.
“I am grateful that the recovery of Camp John Hay was lightning quick and very peaceful, with very minimal or almost no disruption to businesses and their employees and guests. It was a very successful undertaking despite the very complicated nature of taking over control and possession of a 247-hectare property,” he said.
He commended the dedication of
retaliation with the tariffs. There is likely to be a significant impact on the labor force in the United States and it will also affect our own economy,” he said.
Remolona said the Philippines is in better shape than many other countries because the big chunk of its trade comes from business process outsourcing (BPO) and remittances.
“Hopefully, our services trade will remain intact, but there is some concern about what will happen to our goods trade,” he said.
“In fact, the Fed itself, the FOMC itself has all of a sudden become more cautious than before. The
BCDA and John Hay Management Corp. (JHMC) personnel, as well as the professionalism of Baguio City Regional Trial Court sheriffs and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in ensuring peace and security throughout the operation.
“This is indeed a huge victory for the government and the Filipino people, a historic achievement and enduring legacy of everyone who made this a reality,” Paredes said.
The BCDA regained control of Camp John Hay following the Supreme Court resolution on Oct. 22, 2024, which authorized the state-run agency to recover the 247-hectare property.
Authored by PIDS senior research fellow Dr. John Paolo Rivera, research specialist Mark Gerald Ruiz and research analyst Ramona Maria Miral, the study underscores the critical roles of the robust information technology-business process outsourcing (IT-BPO) sector and the government’s Build, Better, More infrastructure program in driving the country’s economic recovery.
SUSTAINABLE
POWER. MSpectrum Inc., subsidiary of Manila Electric Co., turns over a solar rooftop facility to General Trias Water Corp. (GTWC) to power its water pump to help reduce its operational costs and carbon footprint. Shown are (from left) MSpectrum chief operating officer Patrick Henry Panlilio, Meralco first vice president and head of customer retail services Charina Padua, GTWC director and treasurer Amelita Grepo, GTWC director and general manager Susan Baria, GTWC president Domingo Semaña and Meralco senior assistant vice president and business head Robert Galang.
market now expects, whereas in the past the market was expecting the Fed to reduce interest rates by about 100 basis points over 2025, and now the expectation is between 25 and 50 basis points,” Remolona said.
Remolona said the expectation is that the Fed would cut its rates after the middle of the year.
“We don’t decide on monetary policy just on what the Fed does. We look at our own data and what the Fed does is just another piece of data. It goes into our analysis, it goes into our models, and we decide on monetary policy based on that,” he said.
Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming the commission’s authority to regulate the generation and supply sectors of the electric power industry.
The Supreme Court, in G.R. No. 210334 dated Aug. 1, 2023, reiterated and emphasized the ERC’s mandate, pursuant to Republic Act No. 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA), in ensuring a fair, efficient and reliable electric power industry for the Filipino people.
It affirmed the well-established doctrine of upholding the technical expertise of regulatory agencies. “Prefatorily, courts have accorded great respect and will generally stay its hand from interfering into matters addressed to the sound discretion of government agencies, such as the ERC, which are entrusted with the regulation of activities that require special technical knowledge and training,” the SC said.
The SC also upheld the ERC’s authority to issue and implement the guidelines for the automatic adjustment of generation rate and system loss rates by distribution utilities (AGRA Rules) and ruled that the ERC’s issuance of the AGRA rules, which provides the methodology for distribution utilities (DUs) to arrive at their respective monthly generation rates, is clearly within the scope of its powers as defined under Section 43 of the EPIRA.
USAID SUPPORT. National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan (third from left) and University of the Philippines professor emeritus of public administration Alex Bello Brillantes Jr. host a meeting with delegates from the US Agency for International Development at the NEDA main office on Jan. 9, 2025. The discussions centered on exploring potential USAID investment opportunities to enhance the Philippines’ economic resilience and foster sustainable growth.
LISTING ANNIVERSARY. Benguet Corp. (BC) marks a milestone in its life as a publicly-listed company (PLC) when it turned 75 on Jan. 4, 2025. On Jan. 4, 1950, Benguet Consolidated Mining Company listed 12 million shares at the Manila Stock Exchange (MSE) under the stock symbol BC. Attending the bell-ringing ceremony at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) on Jan. 10, 2025 are (from left) BC directors Carlos Alfonso Ocampo, Andrew Julian Romualdez and Maria
Remedios Paz Pompidou, BC president Lina Fernandez, BC chairman Dr. Bernardo Villegas, House of Representatives
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon, PSE chief operating officer Roel Refran, PSE and BC director Anthony Te and PSE directors Peter Favila and Eddie Gobing.
PH stocks fall below 6,500, peso rebounds to 58.36 a dollar
By Jenniffer B. Austria
PHILIPPINE stocks finished the week in the red, falling slightly below the 6,500 level on cautious signals about future rate cut by the US Federal Reserve.
The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index slipped by 15.25 points, or 0.23 percent, to close at 6,496.32 Friday, while the broader all-shares index declined 2.44 points, or 0.06 percent, to settle at 3,754.85.
The US stock markets were closed Thursday in observance of former president Jimmy Carter’s national day of mourning.
Aside from hawkish stance from the Fed and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, local stocks were also affected by concerns about the protectionist policies to be implemented by US president-elect Donald Trump.
These measures could lead of higher inflation rate, fewer rate cuts and slower global trade.
The peso, however, rebounded Friday to close at 58.36 against the US dollar from 58.50 on Thursday.
Among the PSE’s sectoral indices, only the financials ended in the green, rising 0.55 percent. Holding firms lost the most, declining 0.67 percent.
Value turnover was anemic at just P3.33 billion, with gainers (98) edging decliners (96) and 55 unchanged issues.
Century Pacific Food Inc. was the top index gainer, advancing 2.3 percent to P44.50, while Wilcon Depot Inc. was the worst performer, declining 4.36 percent to P10.54.
SEC cancels registration of F2M Agri-Farm
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it cancelled the incorporation papers of F2M AgriFarm OPC for allegedly offering investments to the public without the prior approval and license.
It also ordered F2M Agri-Farm OPC to pay an administrative fine of P1 million, while its incorporator and nominee were directed to pay the same amount.
The SEC said that based on the investigation conducted by the Enforcement and Investor Protection Department (EIPD), the company and its related entities including F2M Tarlac City-Main Branch, F2M, F2M Paalaga System, Hog Raising Business, F2M Tuguegarao Branch, F2M Dagupan, F2M La Union Branch, F2M Lagawe, Ifugao, F2M-Solano Nueva Viz. Branch and F2M Tayug, engaged in selling securities in the nature of an investment contract without the necessary registration and approval from the SEC.
It said the company and its related entities enticed the public to buy one piglet for P5,000 with a promised return of P7,600 after three months, representing a 30-percent return on investment less 5 percent service charge, as advertised on their social media page.
The SEC said the modus operandi violated Section 44 of Republic Act (RA) No. 11232, or the Revised Corporation Code (RCC) and the Securities Regulation Code (SRC), and Section 11 of RA No. 11765
The RCC prohibits corporations from possessing or exercising powers beyond those conferred by law and provided under the articles of incorporation.
The SRC, on the other hand, prohibits the selling or offering of securities without a registration statement duly filed with and approved by the SEC. It also requires people engaged in the business of buying and selling securities to be registered with the SEC.
Jenniffer B. Austria
Indonesia’s Pertamina buys
P6.7b worth of shares in CREC
INDONESIAN state-owned enterprise Pertamina New & Renewable Energy, formed a strategic partnership with Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) through a landmark share subscription agreement.
Pertamina NRE will subscribe to a 20-percent interest in CREC, equivalent to 2.23 million CREC common shares, at P3 apiece, raising P6.69 billion or about $115 million.
The partnership with CREC marks Pertamina NRE’s first investment in the Philippines and its entry to the country’s booming renewable energy investment climate, now ranked sec-
ond-most attractive emerging market for renewable energy investment by BloombergNEF.
Pertamina NRE also gained access to CREC’s unique expertise in project development and engineering, procurement and construction.
CREC will have the opportunity to work with Pertamina NRE to develop renewable energy projects in
Indonesia, allowing for the company’s potential expansion in the region.
“The partnership with Pertamina NRE presents limitless opportunities for Indonesia and the Philippines to collaborate on innovative technologies and practices in renewable energy. It gives a wider stage to CREC’s unique end-to-end capabilities by opening doors in Indonesia even as we drive our developments in the Philippines at full speed,” said CREC president and chief executive Oliver Tan. Proceeds from the agreement will
contribute to the development of CREC’s pipeline of renewable energy projects nationwide in line with its goal of contributing about 1 gigawatt (GW) of green energy capacity per year as part of its 5GW in five-year roadmap.
With Southeast Asia seen as a driver in the demand growth for renewable energy worldwide, the strategic partnership between CREC and Pertamina NRE will benefit both the Philippines and Indonesia in accelerating national as well as regional renewable energy goals, the two companies said.
Megawide takes full control of Clark airport developer
MEGAWIDE Construction Corp. said Friday it took full control of Megawide GMR Construction JV, the developer of Clark International Airport Project.
Megawide said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday it signed a share purchase agreement to acquire 81 million shares in the company from GMR Infrastructure Singapore Pte. Limited. for P70.84 million.
Megawide GRM will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the company.
“The transaction is in line with the company’s strategy of constantly reengineering its business and financial portfolio to support its vision of engineering a First-World Philippines, and to explore more resilient, highgrowth, and scalable opportunities to anchor its long-term and sustainable growth agenda,” Megawide said.
Megawide GMR is a joint venture company between GMR Infrastructure (Singapore) Pte Limited, Megawide and GMR Global Pte. Ltd. (formerly GMR Holdings Overseas
BOI CERTIFICATE. The Board of Investments (BOI) issues the certificate of registration of International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) for the modernization, management and operation of the Visayan Container Terminal (VCT).
are (from left) Jason Rafael Karaan, manager for mergers and acquisitions, ICTSI; Nino Santander, chief finance officer of VCT Project; director Mary Ann Raganit, BOI-ISIS; Jane Salgado, senior investments specialist, Project Evaluation and Registration Division; Lorna Yumul, acting chief, PERD – ISIS; and Rowena Angela Salanga, tax manager of global corporate tax, ICTSI.
First Metro Securities launches new features
FIRST Metro Securities Brokerage Corp. (FirstMetroSec) has introduced two new features on its platforms: Trade from Charts and Historical Portfolio View. Trade from Charts allows investors to analyze market trends and execute trades seamlessly within the same interface. Users can perform technical analysis and place buy and sell orders directly on interactive charts, enabling swift responses to market opportunities. The Historical Portfolio View provides an interactive graph of a portfolio’s growth over time. Users can track the performance of individual asset classes or view their entire portfolio. Customizable timeframes, in-
cluding one month, three months, six months, year-to-date, and one year, help uncover portfolio trends and identify rebalancing opportunities.
“At First Metro Securities, we are committed to equipping our clients with tools that give them a competitive trading edge,” said FirstMetroSe president Gonzalo Ordoñez.
“These features are only the latest in a series of enhancements that we’ve implemented to meet the needs of serious investors,” said Ordoñez.
“We’re just getting started,” said senior vice president Mhelvin Abajon.
“This year, we’re introducing even more tools to meet the evolving
of our investors,” said
Singapore PTE Limited.
“The transaction will allow the company to wholly own its existing subsidiary, Megawide GMR Construction JV Inc., the developer of the Clark International Airport Project, where it can leverage its engineering and construction expertise; and at the same time strengthen its balance sheet,” Megawide said.
Megawide secured the contract to construct and develop the P1.87-billion Cavite Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in December. The project
involves the development, operation and maintenance of a BRT and P2P route with an alignment of about 42 kilometers.
The BRT system will span about 42 kilometers connecting the cities of Imus, General Trias, Tanza, Kawit, Trece Martires and other key areas, with a vital link to Metro Manila via the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITx).
Megawide is an active proponent in the government’s infrastructure program. Jenniffer B. Austria
PLDT reiterates support for gov’t digitalization plan
By Darwin G. Amojelar
PLDT Inc. and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications Inc. reiterated their support for the government’s digitalization initiatives.
The companies said they aim to streamline and transform government processes, narrow the digital divide and implement policies aligned with the government’s vision of a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’.
Among initiatives supported by the PLDT Group is the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA)’s Electronic Business One-Stop Shops (eBOSS) program, which seeks to automate the processing of business permits, related clearances, and licenses in all cities and municipalities across the country, and for which PLDT and Smart are providing an initial 100 computer units to boost the program’s nationwide rollout.
PLDT and Smart also supported Executive Order No. 32 and its implementing rules and regulations (IRR). Issued last year by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., EO 32 streamlined the permitting process for the construction, installation, repair, operation and maintenance of telecommunications and Internet infrastructure in the country, fast-tracking the PLDT Group’s deployment of network infrastructure nationwide.
“Our unwavering support for government efforts to improve public service delivery—by eliminating red tape, fostering private-public collaboration, and advancing digitalization—reflects PLDT Group’s mission to uplift Filipino lives through technology,” said Pamela Felizarta, vice president and department head for joint strategic operations and regulatory affairs at Smart.
needs
Abajon.
BEST COMPANY. Teleperformance receives the Madayaw Award - Best Company to Work For for the second straight year at the Davao City IT-BPM Awards. Attending the awarding ceremony are (from left) TP marketing officers Ambia Guiomala and Michelle Ombrero, ICT Davao president Eric Xavier Manalastas, Department of Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa Sigue, TP Davao site director Michael Angelo Isleta, Davao Chamber president Belle Torres, Davao councilor Bons Militar, TP head for VisMin marketing Levi Trio and HR assistant manager Russel Vonn Alpeche.
Shown
BRAND AMBASSADOR. Filipino actor Christopher de Leon (left) renews
his partnership with Pacific Cross Philippines as the brand ambassador. Since 2019, de Leon has been the face of Pacific Cross, embodying the brand’s commitment to providing reliable health and travel insurance for Filipino families.
BUSINESS
PDRF secures $4.5-m grants from int’l groups
THE Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) secured some $4.5 million in grants from international organizations.
PDRF executives presented this accomplishment and other milestones during the recent PDRF board meeting. The new grants from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Canadian International Development Agency, the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center and PepsiCo will support initiatives in disaster preparedness, recovery, private sector engagement in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and gender-inclusive DRR.
PDRF president Butch Meily highlighted PDRF’s numerous achievements in 2024 during the meeting led by co-chairmen Manuel Pangilinan and Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Over the past year, PDRF’s disaster response initiatives have reached more than 500,000 individuals in 12 regions, mobilizing P47 million in cash and in-kind aid.
Meily shared progress and significant milestones in its flagship programs, including airport readiness,
energy security, area-wide business continuity, forecast-based early action and emergency communications.
Under the Climate Resilient Cities Project, PDRF has installed six emergency operations center (EOC) packages and launched the first-ofits-kind Private Sector Engagement Playbook.
Meily also announced new partnerships with organizations and government agencies like UNICEF, Deloitte, GSMA, Direct Relief and PDRF’s international recognition through participation in forums and benchmarking visits at the EOC.
One notable visit was in August 2024, when the Ecuadorian delegation visited PDRF to learn how the organization engages the private sector in disaster management and how they can replicate it in their own country.
Meily emphasized their report on DRR strategies to the Private Sector Advisory Council of President Bongbong Marcos.
TOURISM INVESTMENTS.
Department of Tourism (DOT)
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco (left) meets with representatives of the Federation of FilipinoChinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) led by president Dr. Cecilio Pedro, to discuss collaborative initiatives aimed at promoting tourism and investments in the Philippines on Jan. 9, 2025 at the DOT Office in Makati. FFCCCII outlined its proposal to revitalize the Chinese Garden at Rizal Park and presented plans to help tourism, attract investments and create more employment opportunities across the country.
DA, PCC team up to stop price-fixing of agri products
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) recently convened to address anti-competitive practices impacting the agriculture sector.
The meeting focused on critical issues such as price fixing, abuse of dominant market positions, and the smuggling of agricultural products.
Both agencies agreed that these
practices distort competition, harm local farmers and fisherfolk and result in higher prices for consumers.
Several key areas for collaboration include enhancing transparency by improving data sharing to better understand market dynamics and establishing a specialized task force dedicated to addressing anti-competitive issues across various agricultural sectors.
CDC ramps up efforts to attract Taiwanese firms, other global investors
CLARK Development Corp. (CDC) said it is intensifying efforts to attract more locators to Clark Freeport and Economic Zone.
CDC president and chief executive Agnes Devanadera recently met with 17 Taiwanese companies, along with Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) chairperson Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil.
The meeting focused on CDC’s commitment to maintaining a robust business environment for locators, who have contributed to the Philippine economy.
Devanadera highlighted the importance of open communication with locators to address challenges effec-
Counterfeit goods worth over $600m seized in 9 months
THE National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR) said authorities seized counterfeit goods worth $617.8 million from January to September 2024, up by 31 percent from $471.4 million confiscated in the same period in 2023.
The United States Trade Representative, in its 2024 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy, commended the NCIPR chaired by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) for achieving record-breaking counterfeit seizures.
“This development reflects IPOPHL’s dedication to curb counterfeiting and our increased collaboration with rights holders to ensure action,” IPOPHL officer-in-charge Nathaniel Arevalo said.
The report cited the Philippines for its intensified crackdown on counterfeit goods, particularly the Greenhills Shopping Center, previously known as a hub for counterfeits.
The report identified 38 online and 33 physical markets worldwide engaged in significant trademark counterfeiting or copyright piracy. Greenhills Shopping Center remains the sole Philippine location on the list, maintaining its reputation as a counterfeit hotspot.
The report acknowledged progress, including strengthened cooperation between law enforcement, rights holders and Greenhills management. Initiatives include raids targeting counterfeit sellers, policy changes within the shopping center, and a broader effort to transform Greenhills into a legitimate high-end retail destination. Othel V. Campos
tively and foster collaboration.
“Let me first express our sincere appreciation at CDC because this community has never given us problems. It is probably because our lines of communication have always been open. Any difficulty, we talk,” she said.
The CDC chief encouraged Taiwanese businesses to explore new revenue streams by trading with fellow locators. This initiative is part of the business interdependence program launched last year.
“We mean business. We want to help you because we know you’re here since we promised you a good business climate. So, on top of the good business climate, we encourage
you to do business with one another,” Devanadera said.
Garafil highlighted the readiness of Taiwanese investors to expand their footprint in the Philippines.
“I can see the sincerity of the Taiwanese people to do business in the Philippines. So that’s why I was telling Ma’am Agnes [Devanadera] that we should take advantage of their very open invitation, very open collaboration with us,” Garafil said.
Taiwanese firms in Clark have generated 2,076 jobs, with a total of $190.62 million in investments and $10.32 million worth of exports as of September 2024, based on CDC’s Investment Promotions Division II.
The agencies also agreed to focus on building stronger cases against violators of competition laws by bolstering evidence-gathering and prosecution efforts. They emphasized the need for joint training programs and information sharing to strengthen enforcement capabilities.
Among the Taiwanese companies that attended the meeting are BB International Leisure and Resort Development Corp., Bestelement Industrial Ltd. Inc. and Fwu Kuang Enterprises Corp.
Other attendees included Multi-Tek Fasteners Inc., Haitima Clark Corp. and MSK Group Work Clark Inc. Chitai Industry Philippines Inc., Baynant Inc. and Kaixin International Corporation were also present. Other Taiwanese investors in the event were Win Formula, Inc., ALJ Outdoor Games Inc., EFNA Global Outsourcing Inc., EVA Airways Corp., Starlux Airlines Co. Ltd. and Jade True Energy Solutions Corp.
Cebu Pacific promotes PH textile arts, unveils QR Flight Codes to boost tourism
CEBU Pacific is encouraging its passengers to discover more of the country’s cultural heritage as it unveiled its latest initiative to promote Philippine tourism—the QR Flight Codes—patterned after the traditional weaves of various local communities.
The QR Flight Codes, made in partnership with Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute, underscores CEB’s commitment to enhancing domestic tourism while shining a light on the artistry and cultural heritage of Filipino weaving communities.
“Cebu Pacific takes pride in honoring the rich tapestry of our nation’s cultural heritage. Using our business as a platform for inclusive and sustainable growth, we celebrate the artistry of our local weaving communities, ensuring their timeless traditions are preserved and their stories are
appreciated by every Filipino,” said CEB chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog.
The QR Flight Codes highlights five unique weaving styles from different parts of the country—the intricate and nature-inspired markings of Ilocos Norte’s Binakol, the elegantly-colored stripes of Occidental Mindoro’s Ramit, the bright hues and iconic plaid design of Iloilo’s Hablon, the bold and colorful checkered patterns of Antique’s Patadyong, and the striking geometric patterns and vivid colors of Zamboanga’s Yakan.
Scanning these QR Flight Codes, placed strategically on billboards along major thoroughfares and airports across the country and in select magazines, will allow travelers to learn more about these traditional weaves and discover more attractions in the destinations where they originate.
To ensure adherence to competition rules, they committed to conducting field visits to monitor compliance and investigate potential infractions.
NAIA operator deploys new fleet of vehicles
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), operated by New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), deployed a new fleet of vehicles to support its ground operations, improve passenger convenience and ensure the safe and efficient flow of movements at the airport. The additions include two new ambulances equipped with advanced medical tools and staffed by trained paramedics to provide swift medical assistance when needed.
Three “follow-me” vehicles have also been added to guide aircraft to their designated parking positions more efficiently, helping minimize taxi times and contributing to smoother operations.
Four inter-terminal coasters were also mobilized to facilitate seamless airside transfers, providing passengers with a more comfortable and efficient way to move between terminals, particularly those with connecting flights or mobility challenges.
“These vehicles are essential to support efficient operations and improve the overall passenger experience at NAIA. They complement NAIA’s existing fleet and reflect our commitment to providing a seamless and reliable airport experience,” NNIC president Ramon Ang said. The deployment of the new vehicles comes as NAIA continues to experience rapid growth. For the whole of 2024, NAIA welcomed a record 50.1 million passengers—a 10.43-percent increase from 2023.
PDRF GRANTS. The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) secures $4.5 million in grants from international organizations. PDRF executives presented this accomplishment and other milestones during the recent PDRF board meeting.
INNOVATION PLAN. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) CALABARZON, in collaboration with the local government unit (LGU) of Taytay, Rizal, advances efforts to strengthen the municipality’s scientific and technological initiatives through the Innovation, Science and Technology for
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 2025
extrastory2000@gmail.com
RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor
ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
PAL named seventh most punctual Asia-Pacific airline
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) solidi-
fied its position as a leader in on-time performance, securing the seventh spot among the most punctual airlines in the Asia-Pacific region in 2024.
PAL was the sole Philippine carrier to achieve a top 10 ranking in Cirium’s “Top Airline Performers” for the Asia-Pacific region.
According to the 2024 Cirium On-Time Performance Report, PAL recorded an on-time arrival performance of 76.06 percent, covering over 112,000 flights across the Philippine flag carrier’s global network.
For the month of January 2024 in particular, PAL clinched the #1 Most Punctual Airline spot with an on-time performance of 86.85 percent.
“We greatly appreciate the recog-
nition for the monumental efforts of our employees, service partners and industry stakeholders in achieving this on-time performance milestone, which affirms the long-term investments we are making in enhancing reliability and efficiency in all our operations, and always at the highest level of safety in line with Philippine Airlines’ uncompromising safety culture,” said PAL president and chief operating officer Capt. Stanley Ng.
The seventh-place ranking puts PAL ahead of most Southeast Asian, Chinese, Korean and Australian carriers. Airlines from Japan, New Zealand, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Australia rounded out the top ten list for 2024. Darwin G. Amojelar and Joel E. Zurbano
Bank loans sustain double-digit growth
By Darwin G. Amojelar
BANK loans sustained their double-digit growth in November 2024 after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) began its monetary easing cycle.
Data from the BSP showed that outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks (U/KBs), net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the BSP, expanded by 11.1 percent year-on-year in November from 10.6-percent in October.
On a month-on-month seasonally-
adjusted basis, outstanding U/KB loans, net of RRPs, rose by 1.0 percent.
Loans reached P12.67 trillion in November, up from P11.40 trillion a year ago. They also increased from P12.51 trillion registered in October. Outstanding loans to residents, net
US Embassy set to host bootcamp for Southeast Asian content creators
THE U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with Out of The Box Media Literacy Initiative, are inviting emerging digital content creators in Southeast Asia to participate in a Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) media literacy and content creation workshop from April to June.
The “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators” is designed to equip young content creators with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s dynamic media environment. Interested participants are invited to submit their applications by Jan. 31 through the following link: https:// bit.ly/creatorsco-lab. Through virtual sessions on April 5 and 6, followed by an in-person work-
shop in Manila from May 28 to June 1, experts in media, technology and the academe will train participants on using their platforms to promote media and information literacy, creating engaging online content, and tapping the latest tools in brand development, audience engagement, and analytics. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas on pressing issues such as disinformation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, and collaborate with fellow emerging content creators from across Southeast Asia to foster regional cooperation and innovation.
The “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators” is open to citizens of ASEAN membercountries and Timor-Leste, aged between 18 and 35 years old.
of RRPs, grew by 11.3 percent in November from 10.7 percent in the previous month. Outstanding loans to non-residents expanded at a slower rate of 3.8 percent in November from 6.9 percent in October.
Outstanding loans to non-residents include loans by UKB’s foreign currency deposit units (FCDUs) to nonresidents.
Data showed that loans for production activities went up by 9.8 percent in November, faster than 9.1 percent in October, on sustained increase in lending to key industries such as wholesale and retail trade, repair of
motor vehicles and motorcycles (9.1 percent); electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply (9.6 percent); and financial and insurance activities (4.4 percent).
Consumer loans to residents grew 23.3 percent in November following the 24-percent increase seen in October, driven by higher credit card and motor vehicle loans.
Consumer loans amounted to P1.54 trillion in November, including P894 billion in credit card receivables, P450.68 billion in motor vehicle loans and P155 billion in salary loans.
Tala white paper highlights economic force of women, children, MSMEs
By Othel V. Campos
FINANCIAL technology firm
Tala, in collaboration with the Atlantic Council’s Geoeconomics Center, unveiled a white paper that highlights the importance of the “global majority” - women, children, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and underserved individuals, representing a powerful economic force that has historically been excluded from financial systems.
The white paper emphasizes the need for governments, policymakers and organizations to develop targeted strategies to empower this group.
Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 2023 Financial Inclusion Dashboard noted the financial concerns among Filipinos.
KACH Medina Umandap, a 36-yearold UAE-based OFW and digital nomad, made history as the youngest Filipina and the first to visit all 195 United Nations-recognized countries using only a Philippine passport.
Her extraordinary journey concluded on Jan. 7, 2025, at 12:47 a.m. PST in Port Sudan, Africa. Arriving via Ethiopian Airlines, Umandap’s achievement marks a significant milestone for Filipinos in global travel.
Sudan, which had been closed to tourism for two years due to civil war, recently reopened its doors by resuming the issuance of tourist visas. Umandap’s visit makes her one of the first travelers to explore Port Sudan, a designated safe zone, during its early steps toward tourism recovery. She is currently in Dubai, preparing to
According to Tala, these barriers are compounded by limited financial education and difficulties in accessing credit due to requirements like collateral and credit history.
Tala said addressing these issues is crucial to empowering the global majority in the Philippines.
According to the white paper, 65 percent of Filipinos worry about covering emergency medical costs. Around 42 percent fear high medical expenses from serious illnesses or accidents, 24 percent worry about monthly bills, 17 percent are concerned about retirement funds and 13 percent struggle with tuition and school fees.
return to the Philippines to celebrate her groundbreaking achievement.
“Standing here today, having set foot in all 195 countries, is a testament to the power of dreams and perseverance. This journey was never just about counting countries—it was about building connections, embracing diverse cultures, and celebrating the shared humanity that binds us all,” Umandap said.
With her final stop in Sudan, Umandap joins the ranks of the prestigious UN Masters, an elite group of fewer than 500 travelers worldwide recognized by NomadMania.com for visiting all UN-recognized countries. Notably, she follows in the footsteps of Filipina-Americans Luisa Yu and Odette Ricasa, carving her own path as the first to achieve the feat using only a Philippine passport.
fashion extravaganza from Nov. 20 to 22, 2024, at One Ayala, Makati City. Sixty-five customers were treated to curated experiences, as part of the Bank’s Gold Circle VIP program.
Acer reveals feature updates on Predator AI gaming laptops
LAS VEGAS—Acer announced significant performance and feature updates to its line of powerful Predator gaming laptops, including its flagship Predator Helios 16 AI and Predator Helios 18 AI.
All the devices are powered by up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 275HX and next-gen NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 50 Series Laptop GPUs, built to deliver next-level gaming and AI performance. Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell, GeForce RTX™ 50 Series Laptop GPUs bring game-changing capabilities to gamers and creators. Equipped with a massive level of AI horsepower, the RTX 50 Series enables new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Multiple performance with NVIDIA DLSS 4, gen-
CREDIT cards are more than just payment tools, they can also be great for managing your finances while unlocking amazing perks. Every month, you can enjoy discounts, rewards, cashback, and more from various brands and partners.
BDO Unibank continues to redefine convenience and rewards for its customers by integrating BDO Credit Cards with the BDO Pay app. Now, BDO Pay allows you to simplify your transactions while still earning numerous discounts and promos. The BDO Pay app puts all your cards in one place, allowing you to link and choose what BDO credit or bank account to use for seamless payments—without the need to carry the physical cards. You can also view your credit card details and transactions, including those of supplementary cards, right on the app.
Be a smart spender with BDO Pay You can maximize your BDO credit or even debit cards on the app. Before paying for that lunch bill or buying that item in the store, you can open up BDO Pay and check to see which of your cards has an ongoing promo or deal for that store. This allows you to not just pay without your physical card, but even enjoy the perks of that card while paying through the app. With BDO Pay, even without your physical card, you have access to great Deals and important information such as your available credit limit, outstanding balance, transaction history, and soon, your card statement, plus more! Download BDO Pay and use it with your BDO Credit Card to unlock a world of exclusive dining deals, shopping rewards, and so much more! Get it for free on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. For more information, visit BDO’s website.
erate images at unprecedented speed, and unleash creativity with NVIDIA Studio. Plus access NVIDIA NIM Microservices – state-of-the-art AI models that let enthusiasts and developers build AI assistants, agents, and workflows with peak performance on NIM-ready systems. Additionally, the Helios devices are supported by the ultra-thin 6th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fans and MagKey 4.0 mechanical switches.
THE new year is a great time for selfimprovement! This can be quite challenging but having someone to guide you and hold you accountable can make all the difference in achieving your goals. Along with trusted friends and family, consider enlisting the help of AI tools like Google’s Gemini. Gemini can offer personalized advice, track your progress, and even provide resources tailored to your goals.
To get the most out of Gemini, be specific with your questions. For example, instead of asking “What are some good books?”, try “What are some good science fiction books for beginners?”. Also, tell Gemini about your situation, like “I’m a student struggling with time management”. This helps Gemini give you better advice.
Don’t forget to ask Gemini followup questions too. This helps it refine its responses and provide even more relevant information. The more you interact, the better it understands your preferences.
Both lines also received design refreshes and added OLED and Mini LED displays to their models. The Windows 11 Predator gaming laptops are shipped with three months of PC Game Pass. PC Game Pass is designed for PC players, including games on day on such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Ara: History Untold, and titles from EA Play. Also announced is the new Predator XB323QX gaming monitor, which sports a 31.5-inch 5K display and integrated NVIDIA G-SYNC® Pulsar
technology, to deliver remarkable visual clarity and fidelity.
“Acer continues to push the boundaries of gaming in our latest Predator devices,” said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks at Acer Inc. “Our commitment to innovating in the gaming sphere is evident in the integration of the latest silicon, the world’s thinnest laptop cooling fan blades, and the slimmest design of our powerful Helios Neo laptops, advancements that help deliver the performance and immersive experiences gamers desire.”
Here are some useful prompts to kickstart your 2025 with Gemini: ● “Write a personal development plan for 2025, focusing on [specific area, e.g., 5 Google Gemini prompts to start 2025
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career, health, relationships].” The new year is the best time to lay down some new personal goals, whether it’s for your career, hobbies, passions, or personal relationships. Gemini can help brainstorm goals, break them down into smaller steps, and suggest resources for achieving them.
● “Suggest ways to reduce stress and improve my well-being.” Stress is always a permanent part of our lives –it’s on us to figure out how to manage it and its effects on our physical and mental wellbeing. Gemini can suggest relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and healthy habits to incorporate into your daily routine.
● “Analyze a past situation where I [describe a specific situation, e.g., failed to meet a deadline, had a conflict
with a friend, made a poor decision]. Identify the factors that contributed to the outcome, both internal (my actions, thoughts, feelings) and external (circumstances, other people’s actions). Based on this analysis, suggest actionable steps I can take to avoid similar situations or achieve a better outcome in the future.” Can’t stop thinking about a past incident or event where you may have acted badly? This prompt encourages deep reflection on a past event, with which Gemini can help dissect the situation objectively. Gemini can pinpoint areas where you could have acted differently, and then helps translate those insights into concrete actions for improvement in similar situations in the future.
● “I’m reflecting on a recurring
“The new Intel Core Ultra 200HXseries processors are purpose-built for the max performance and IO that enthusiast gamers demand, while delivering that experience at significantly lower power,” said David Feng, Vice President and General Manager, Client Segments, Client Computing Group at Intel. “Intel Core Ultra combined with Acer’s innovative system engineering results in amazing new Predator devices that raise the bar for gaming laptops.” Predator Helios 16 AI and Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptops Predator’s newest and most powerful gaming laptops, the Helios 16 AI and Helios 18 AI, appeal to gamers, early adopters and tech enthusiasts seeking the latest CPUs and GPUs, cooling technology and brilliant displays. The Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) delivers an exceptional combination of performance and portability. Gamers or professionals on the go wanting a mid-sized powerful laptop for work and play will find it to be highly capable and easily transportable, making it easy to carry to tournaments, LAN sessions, and to work. The Predator Helios 18 AI (PH1873) brings desktop-level performance, a larger screen and top-quality immersive gaming experiences to hardcore gamers and tech-savvy consumers interested in cutting-edge technology for applications beyond gaming.
pattern in my life where I [describe the pattern, e.g., struggle with public speaking, avoid taking risks, get easily discouraged]. Can you help me trace this pattern back to its possible origins in my past experiences? Based on this understanding, suggest strategies for breaking this pattern and developing healthier behaviors.” If you’ve managed to identify a behavior or habit that doesn’t serve you positively, Gemini can act as a sounding board, helping you connect the dots between past experiences and present behaviors. By understanding the root causes, you can work on more effective and lasting change.
● “Summarize the key takeaways from [book/article/podcast] on [relevant topic].” If you like to read or consume a lot of self-help and self-improvement content, Gemini can quickly summarize this information, making it easier to digest, learn, and apply new knowledge to your life.
No matter what you choose to ask Gemini, always remember that you can get the best possible results when you know how to prompt it. Be specific with your requests and ask Gemini follow up questions, be honest with yourself and your role in your self-improvement, and always focus on learning. Try these prompts now by heading over to Gemini
It elevates your selfies by automatically adjusting the lighting to enhance your facial features, giving you that natural, studio-quality glow in any setting.
PREDATOR Helios 16 AI
Predator XB323QX Monitor
Bossjob’s AI resume analysis enhances hiring efficiency, fairness
BOSSJOB, the leading AI-powered, chat-first recruitment platform in Southeast Asia, has unveiled yet another innovation: AI Resume Analysis. This advanced feature leverages artificial intelligence to evaluate resumes and provide actionable insights for both jobseekers and employers, making it more efficient and fair for both jobseekers and recruiters.
The AI Resume Analysis tool offers a dual advantage for employers and jobseekers by using cutting-edge AI technology to review, evaluate, and optimize resumes, ensuring alignment with job requirements. The goal is to streamline the recruitment process for employers, while providing jobseekers with actionable insights to improve their chances of landing their dream jobs.
For Employers:
● Time-Saving Efficiency: The tool rapidly scans and assesses resumes, reducing time spent manually reviewing applications.
● Improved Screening: AI highlights top candidates by matching resumes to job descriptions, enhancing the accuracy of initial screenings.
● Unbiased Selection: By focusing solely on qualifications and skills, the tool minimizes human biases, promoting fairness in hiring.
● Data-Driven Insights: Recruiters gain valuable insights into candidate fit with one click, enabling more informed hiring decisions within easy reach.
For Jobseekers:
● Resume Optimization: Personalized feedback and suggestions help jobseekers refine their resumes, including improvements to content, format, and keyword usage.
● Highlighting Strengths: The tool identifies key skills and experiences, enhancing visibility to recruiters.
● Tailored Guidance: Recommendations to tailor resumes for specific job requirements increase the likelihood of being shortlisted.
● Enhanced Job Matching: With keyword-optimized resumes, jobseekers have a better chance of being matched with roles suited to their qualifications.
“Our AI Resume Analysis is designed to empower both jobseekers and employers, bridging the gap between talent and opportunity in today’s competitive job market,” said Kimberly Chen, Country Manager of Bossjob. “For jobseekers, it’s a real game-changer, providing insights that make their applications stand out. For employers, it’s about making smarter, faster, and fairer hiring decisions.”
This latest tool aligns with Bossjob’s ongoing mission of revolutionizing recruitment through technology. By integrating AI Resume Analysis, Bossjob continues to enhance its offerings, ensuring a seamless hiring experience that saves time and promotes inclusivity.
A Future-Ready Hiring Experience
Bossjob’s AI Resume Analysis underscores its continued commitment to innovation in recruitment. With this feature, the platform simplifies hiring processes, reduces inefficiencies, and empowers users to navigate the job market confidently.
For more information about Bossjob and the innovative AI Resume Analysis tool, visit Bossjob’s official website or the official blog post.
LG presents latest innovations with ‘Affectionate Intelligence’
LG Electronics (LG) is showcasing its latest innovations powered by AI at CES® 2025.
Themed “Life’s Good 24/7 with Affectionate Intelligence,” LG’s booth at the Las Vegas Convention Center illustrates how the company is providing incredible convenience and new customer experiences by seamlessly integrating AI into everyday life.
At the entrance of the booth, LG’s theme comes to life with the dynamic and immersive Brand Façade: a massive semi-circular display featuring LG Kinetic LED Media Art. LG offers its customizable Kinetic LED products as part of a total solution for customers, providing everything from the initial design to post-installation services.
The company’s innovative displays deliver exceptional, multisensory experiences with stunning picture quality and the ability to perform elegant kinetic movements in sync with video and audio content.
LG’s booth at CES 2025 is divided into distinct zones representing morning, noon, afternoon, evening and night, all grounded in LG’s pursuit of “Space-as-a-Service” to expand the horizons of living spaces. Each area demonstrates how LG’s AI-powered innovations can enrich people’s daily routines. Visitors will experience firsthand how LG’s intelligent home appliances, smart living solutions and cutting-edge technologies combine to create around-the-clock comfort, convenience and connection.
A Morning with LG AI
The Rise & Shine (LG AI Home) zone showcases LG’s vision for a seamless start to the day, enabled by LG’s Affectionate Intelligence and On-device AI Hub. Visitors can explore an Intelligent Home that understands and adapts to their needs, offering proactive solutions to make each
day smoother, and a personalized living environment that is both safe and hyperconnected. Visitors can witness innovations like face and voice recognition in the bedroom, which provide personalized content and wellness insights based on sleep patterns. The technologies even adapts to user’s routines thanks to automatic situational recognition and offers easy-to-digest data and insight with Ondevice AI hub, where sensitive information is securely protected by LG Shield.
The Connect & Cruise (Car-Commercial) zone focuses on LG’s AI-driven mobility and commercial innovations for life on the move. Here, visitors can experience AI-based in-cabin sensing solution, Vision AI mobility concept that is designed to bring greater safety, convenience and hyper-personalization to the future mobility experience.
Noon – the Perfect Time for Work and Play
The Work & Create (Intelligent Office) zone exemplifies AI’s ability to transform work into a smarter, more streamlined experience. Visitors can get hands-on experience with LG gram
Pro 2-in-1, while experts demonstrate how to maximize AI capabilities using the LG CreateBoard. This presentation highlights the simplicity of generating document-based AI insights and leveraging AI-driven system controls.
The Gear up & Game (Gaming Playground) zone is an AI-optimized environment where visitors will discover an unparalleled gaming experience. LG’s ThinQ ON, which can connect with a variety of IoT sensors and devices, makes it easy to create a personalized gaming station and control mood settings with just the push of a button. Visitors can also try out the advanced webOS smart gaming monitor, including the LG UltraGear™ OLED Bendable Gaming Monitor.
A Rejuvenating Afternoon with Innovations that Inspire
The Inspire & Innovate (LG Labs Studio) zone is a space that inspires creativity and promotes personal wellbeing through innovative solutions, including AI-driven technologies. Visitors can explore personalized “ambient solutions” that align with their unique
lifestyles and tastes, and see how LG’s products can transform a living space into a chic café, a relaxing retreat or a premium personal cinema. In addition, the zone also features the MX platform, which expands the definition of home solutions by creating a new type of multipurpose space. Utilizing a modular package system, it integrates LG’s innovative appliance hardware and AI technologies to transform the vehicle cabin into a flexible area. Throughout the zone, visuals and ambient content are generated by EXAONE, LG AI Research’s multimodal AI model, creating dynamic atmospheres curated to individual preferences. Trained on 350 million licensefree images, EXAONE can generate an infinite number of images with distinct moods. The images displayed in the zone are created using prompts such as “gentle breeze,” “orange summer view” and “cozy, serene atmosphere,” uniquely depicting city and countryside morning scenery in four seasons, resulting in images that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
SOLANE ignites change, partners with Rise Against Hunger
SOLANE, the country’s leading LPG brand, is proud to announce its recent partnership with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP). This collaboration is part of the company’s CSR initiatives, where they aim to provide nutritious lunch meals to underserved communities across the country.
“Solane has been very active in CSR activities since the start of our operations in the communities where we operate. From feeding programs that cater to our less fortunate brethren to imparting our expertise by providing safety trainings on the handling of LPG to the grassroot levels said Dennis Palomar, Public Affairs Officer, Isla Group Corporation.
With regards to their partnership with RAHP, Solane has been a staunch supporter since the first quarter of 2024. The company has also donated free Solane LPG refill vouchers, and last November 15, Solane sponsored a mobile kitchen project that served as an extension of RAHP’s food banking program.
“Barangay 106 is located in Tondo, Manila, a very crowded community
where fire incidents occur frequently, largely due to houses built with light materials. These factors make the community highly vulnerable to fire disasters. Through Solane’s CSR initiatives, residents participated in a learning ses-
sion on the proper and safe use of LPG in their homes. This education equips them with the knowledge to prevent fire incidents caused by unsafe LPG usage, ultimately fostering a safer and more responsible community” said Ar-
PH
lene Castro, RAHP representative. Solane has been actively promoting the safety use of LPG, particularly by partnering with Local Government Units (LGU), because the company believes that beyond their quality products, there has to be a peace of mind to all their customers who are patronizing Solane LPG. And this is what it sets them apart from other brands in the industry.
“All of our CSR efforts are done hand in hand with LGUs. Local collaboration is key in coming up with relevant programs that is valued by the community similar to our Bgy 106 project also in collaboration with Rise Against Hunger” said Palomar. In the past, people approached LPG safety with indifference thinking all brands are the same. Thru the collective efforts of Solane, the communities, government agencies like BFP and DOE people now have increased awareness on LPG safety thru our product knowledge seminars in the barangays. It is a continuing education effort and has made Solane synonymous with safety, reliability and peace of mind”, added Palomar.
US Embassy to host bootcamp for Southeast Asian content creators
THE US Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with Out of The Box Media Literacy Initiative, invites emerging digital content creators in Southeast Asia to participate in a Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) media literacy and content creation workshop from April to June.
The “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators” is designed to equip young content creators with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s dynamic media environment. Interested participants are invited to submit their applications by January 31 through the following link: https://bit.ly/creatorsco-lab.
Through virtual sessions on April 5 and 6, followed by an in-person workshop in Manila from May 28 to June 1, experts in media, technology, and the academe will train participants on using their platforms to promote media and
information literacy, creating engaging online content, and tapping the latest tools in brand development, audience engagement, and analytics.
During this program, participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas on pressing issues such as disinformation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, and collaborate with fellow emerging content creators from across Southeast Asia to foster regional cooperation and innovation.
The “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators” is open to citizens of ASEAN member-countries and Timor-Leste, aged between 18 and 35 years old. Applicants should have at least 1,000 followers on any social media platform and should have been actively creating online content for the past three months.
After the bootcamp, participants will be
eligible to apply for grants amounting to Php224,000 ($4,000) and mentoring support to implement new digital content projects. Participants will also become a member of the U.S. international exchange alumni network that will open them to unique opportunities, including grants and networking.
YSEALI is a U.S. government program that strengthens leadership development and networking in Southeast Asia. Since its launch in 2013, YSEALI has been developing the capabilities of Southeast Asian youth to promote civic engagement, environmental and natural resource management, education, economic development, and good governance through a variety of programs, including U.S. educational and cultural exchanges, regional exchanges, and seed funding.
For more information about YSEALI, visit https://yseali.state.gov.
LG’s
YOUNG actress Sofia Pablo leads her first title role in the GMA Afternoon Prime series Prinsesa ng City Jail, a project she describes as something that pushes her limits as an actor.
Known for lighter roles in the past, Sofia now faces the challenge of portraying Princess, a young girl raised near a prison by her adoptive father (Keempee De Leon), a jail guard.
“Honored, grateful, but more excited,” Sofia said, describing her emotions as the show’s premiere approaches.
Despite initial nerves, she expressed gratitude to her mother network for the opportunity to “kind of level up and showcase my talent in acting.”
Sofia admitted that while she feels distant from her character, she relates to Princess’ deep bond with her father, Dado.
“It’s the same with me and my mom—I’d do anything for her,” Sofia shared. She also connects with Princess’s belief in kindness and her hope that every problem has a solution.
Co-star Allen Ansay also confronts new challenges in the series. He portrays Xavier, a troubled teenager who would later become Princess’s love interest.
According to Allen, preparing for the role required physical and emotional adjustments.
“Since I’m playing a swimmer, I had to stay fit and change how I move. Our director guided me to approach this role differently,” the young actor explained.
Allen, who previously took on lighter roles, welcomed the shift to a more serious character. “It’s unbelievable. Before, our roles were more on the cute side. Here, I was able to show that I’ve leveled up.”
Sofia Pablo is ‘Prinsesa ng City Jail’
The chemistry between Sofia and Allen extends beyond the screen, sparking curiosity about their dynamic. When asked if Sofia was the “princess of his heart,” Allen responded, “I don’t think that even needs to be asked. Of course, 100 percent, it’s only her.”
Prinsesa ng City Jail features a star-studded cast, including Beauty Gonzalez, Denise Laurel, and Dominic Ochoa. Supporting roles are filled by Ayen Munji-Laurel, Jean Saburit, Jett Pangan, Ina Feleo, Betong Sumaya, Maey Bautista, and Minnie Aguilar
The series explores Princess’ journey as she brings light to those around her despite longing for the mother who left her. Her life changes upon meeting Xavier, whose own family struggles mirror hers. Their evolving friendship leads them toward healing and self-discovery.
Directed by Jerry Lopez Sineneng Prinsesa ng City Jail premieres on Jan. 13 and will air weekdays at 3:20 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime. Overseas viewers can catch the show via GMA Pinoy TV.
P-POP boy group 1621BC opens the new year showcasing the members’ bolder and braver side in their comeback single “Bagamundo.”
The upbeat OPM track highlights 1621BC members JM, JC, Pan, Win, Migz, and DJ’s determination to rise above life’s challenges and work toward achieving their dreams.
“It’s a story about achieving one’s dream through years of travel and developing the most interesting individual characters who strive hard to pursue their dream of becoming somebody someday,” the group shared.
Kiko “Kikx” Salazar and Derick “OC-J” Gernale composed and produced “Bagamundo” along with Perry Lansigan, while StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos served as
the song’s supervising producer.
Following their Dream Maker journey, the 1621BC members launched their self-titled debut EP in 2023, featuring the key track “Laruan.”
Their group name symbolizes an angel manifestation number that suggests one’s desires and dreams will come true, while BC means “beyond complete.”
In 2024, the band was nominated for Best New Performance by a Group at the 37th Awit Awards and recently won the special award for P-pop Potential at the P-pop Music Awards held at New Frontier Theater on Dec. 28. They were also featured on Spotify’s Best of P-pop On The Rise playlist.
WHILE the Miss Grand International title has remained elusive for Filipinas, the Mrs. Grand International 2024 title was won by a Filipino-American from Arlee, Montana, USA.
Estela Fullerton, a 61-year-old housewife, was crowned Mrs. Grand Elite USA 2024 and earned the right to participate in the Mrs. Grand International 2024 pageant held in Myanmar in November.
Fullerton, who was born in Cotabato City, moved to the USA in 2003, where she met her husband, Hal. She founded the Filipino American Montana Organization (FAMO), a non-profit that provides educational assistance to underprivileged children and supports women in need.
“Six years ago, I began sponsoring fifty children in the Philippines by providing school supplies. This experience ignited a passion within me to do more for the community and give back to my home country,” the mother of five children said on Facebook. “To all women who have faced challenges, I urge you to rise above, stand tall, and live life to the fullest, while remaining humble and kind to all,” she added.
* * Bb. Pilipinas queens share blessings with Gawad Kalinga In line with its mission to support
Allen Ansay is Xavier, Sofia’s love interest in the series
Sofia Pablo is back in the afternoon prime with ‘Prinsesa ng City Jail’
The cast and director of ‘Prinsesa ng City Jail’ during the series‘ press conference
Mrs. Grand International 2024 Estela Fullerton
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
By Nickie Wang
AT just eight years old, Purple Hearts
CEO Kryzl Jorge is setting her sights on expanding the company by collaborating with more celebrities. Already working with the popular group known as It’s Showtime Kids— Argus, Kelsey, Jaze, Stephen, and Kulot — Kryzl aims to strengthen the brand’s presence in the local market.
“I want to help and team up with other celebrities and collaborate with more artists so our company can grow bigger,” Kryzl said during their company’s thanksgiving party.
During the event, the young endorsers were named Purple Hearts Sweethearts and received a plaque of appreciation from Kryzl and her brother, Charles Angello Jorge , who was recently appointed CEO of the Kryzl Group of Companies.
Kryzl also shared plans to feature celebrities on her vlog, Love Kryzl’s World, which will focus on adventures and unboxing popular toys. She expressed excitement about inviting her celebrity friends
Young CEO Kryzl Jorge plots bigger moves for her brand
to join the content. The thanksgiving event also welcomed Kapamilya stars
Gen 11
and It’s
who hinted at upcoming projects for the year.
Other guests at the celebration included Dianne Media, Kiray Celis, Rayver and Rodjun Cruz, Dani Barretto, Javier Panillo, Alvin Francisco, Rachelle Anne Pegason, Sherry Bolisay, Queenay Mercado, and Anna Magkawas
Meanwhile, Charles Jorge , the new CEO of Purple Hearts’ parent company, Kryzl Group, made a commitment to continuing the legacy built by their parents, founder Kris Jorge and chairwoman Liezl Jorge. He also outlined plans to expand the company’s ventures into event and concert production this year.
“I hope you extend the same support you have for my parents so we can work together and improve our products and services,” he said.
Before becoming CEO, Charles led the company’s subsidiaries, Salvation HR and Salvation Sales and Marketing, and served as managing partner of Love Kryzl and Siblings, Co.
Golden Haven is redefining real estate standards with a top-tier benefits package aimed at advancing the careers of its sales partners. Through instant commission payouts, nationwide cross-selling opportunities, and engaging monthly events, Golden Haven empowers its sales team with the resources and support needed for success.
The Daily Commission Release program guarantees that sales partners receive prompt payouts, ensuring consistent cash flow and driving motivation. The innovative Seller’s App streamlines client data and sales tools, allowing partners to efficiently manage leads, monitor sales, and finalize transactions anytime, anywhere.
Additionally, Golden Haven’s nationwide cross-selling program enables sales partners to offer clients the most suitable property options, expanding their reach and boosting income opportunities.
Golden Haven’s commitment extends internationally, offering sales partners the
opportunity to tap into Filipino communities worldwide and provide exclusive investment opportunities to overseas Filipinos. This global approach helps partners expand their markets while making a lasting impact. Monthly Seller Events keep the team engaged, motivated, and connected, creating a sense of community and providing opportunities for learning and growth. The Golden Stars Recognition Program celebrates top performers with VIP experiences, including luxury stays, project tours, seminars, and even a personal meeting with Golden Haven’s founder, former Senate President, Manny Villar
Carol Monton , a pioneer agent from Golden Haven Antipolo, was part of the fi rst batch of sales partners when the branch opened in 2018. Through her earnings, she was able to help her family and even invest in her own house and lot. “Kapag alam mo talaga na kailangan ito ng tao, hindi ka mahihirapan na ibenta,” she shares. For Monton, it’s about providing a solution that helps families avoid the fi nancial burden of unexpected memorial costs. “ Ang rewarding kasi noon—yung kumikita ka na, at the same time nakakatulong ka sa ibang tao ,” she adds. Golden Haven is now looking for motivated individuals to join its team of real estate ambassadors. If you’re passionate about building a meaningful career with growth opportunities, call 0919 0790208 / (0919) 079 0209, or visit our Facebook page or website at www.goldenhaven.com.ph.
NEWPORT World Resorts invites guests to indulge in an extraordinary cognac experience at The Whisky Library with Rémy Martin, one of France’s most renowned cognac houses. The fi rst masterclass of the year on Jan. 15 will immerse participants in the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and heritage, tracing its roots back to its founding in 1724. Attendees will learn how grapes from the prestigious Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus are meticulously crafted into some of the fi nest Cognac in the world. The masterclass, led by brand ambassador Kris
and Rémy Martin Excellence Cognac. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a
connoisseur, this session promises to enhance your appreciation of this timeless spirit. The event will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with limited slots available for P4,000 nett. Reservations can be made at www. newportworldresorts.com
PBB
winner Fyang Smith
Showtime host Jackie Gonzaga
From left: ‘PBB: Gen 11’ Big Winner Fyang Smith, Purple Hearts CEO Kryzl Jorge, and ‘It’s Showtime’ host Jackie Gonzaga
It’s Showtime Kids and Purple Hearts Sweethearts(from left) Stephen, Jaze, Arguz, Kulot, and Kelsey Kryzl (center) danced together with her siblings during the brand’s year-end party
Kryzl Group CEO Charles Jorge (top) and Purple Hearts CEO Kryzl Jorge
Top sales agents at the Golden Star Awards 2024
Sales partners got to meet former Sen. Manny Villar (in red polo shirt) during the Seller Summit
Discover how champagne is transformed into some of the nest Cognac in the world