THE Philippine Coast Guard said China’s so-called “Monster” ship is once again sailing deeper into the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and headed in the direction of Zambales province.
The China Coast Guard’s largest patrol vessel, CCG 5901 aka “The Monster,” appears to have relieved a smaller CCG ship and was spotted some 97 nautical miles [about 179 kilometers] off the coast of Zambales on Saturday.
In a statement on Sunday, the PCG disclosed it had deployed its most modern vessel to challenge Chinese patrol boats attempting to “alter the existing status quo” in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
PCG spokesman for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said the BRP Teresa Magbanua has blocked the Chinese behemoth’s attempts to move closer anew towards the Zambales coastline.
politicize INC peace rally—poll chief
By Rolando Ng III, Ram Superable, Rio Araja and Cherrie Anne Villahermosa
COMMISSION on Elections chairman George Erwin Garcia appealed to politicians that they must not take advantage of the Iglesia ni Cristo’s National Rally for Peace today that is expected to draw at least a million participants at the Quirino Grandstand.
Trilateral
By Vince Lopez
THE trilateral conference call be -
tween President Marcos, US President Joe Biden, and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, originally
set on Sunday, has been rescheduled for today, a Malacañang official announced.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar Chavez said that “the postponement [of the
trilateral virtual meeting] was due to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, in the United States.”
“The U.S. side requested the adjustment,” he noted in a message to Palace reporters on Sunday.
Garcia expressed confidence the gathering will not result in “politicking” after prominent INC members clarified the rally is for peace and political unity.
“Just like our call during the recent Traslacion, we hope that this religious activity is respected by its attendees. Politicians, too,” the poll chief said.
As early as Sunday afternoon, INC members started to arrive at the Quirino Grandstand.
INC leader Edwil Zabala said parallel programs will also be held across the country.
“All in all, there are 13 sites in different regions of the Philippines where people will gather,” Zabala said.
Around 5,000 police officers and
Biden earlier cancelled a January 9-12 trip to Italy to focus instead on the federal response to the California wildfires.
The three leaders are expected to
Marcos extends solidarity message to LA fire victims
By Vince Lopez
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended his message of solidarity and support to the victims of the raging wildfires in Southern California in the United States, particularly in Los Angeles where many Filipino-American families and overseas Filipino workers are staying.
“On behalf of the Filipino people, I extend my deepest sympathies to all who have been affected by the devastating wildfires in Southern California, USA—a place that many of our kababayans call home,” Mr. Marcos said in a statement posted on
By Rex Espiritu
other security forces were deployed to secure the INC gathering in Manila.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin said Sunday at least 4,400 will be from the Philippine National Police while the remaining will be from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fire Protection.
“These do not include the usual deployment and anti-criminality [teams],” Aberin said.
Key Manila roads will be closed beginning 4 a.m. Monday -- Katigbak Drive and South Drive, Independence Road; both lanes of Roxas Blvd. from Katigbak Drive to UN Ave.; both lanes of Bonifacio Drive from Katigbak Drive to Anda Circle; P. Burgos Ave. from Victoria St. to Roxas Blvd.; Ma. Orosa St. from P. Burgos Ave. to UN Ave.; Finance Rd. from P. Burgos Ave. to Taft Ave.; Gen. Luna roundtable; and Kalaw
Ave. from Taft Ave. to Roxas Blvd.
Malacañang has suspended work in government offices and classes in all levels in Manila and Pasay cities ahead of the event.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna said it was up to private sector employers if they would also suspend work.
The Quezon City government likewise suspended government work and face-to-face classes from public daycare to senior high today.
“This is in solidarity with the National Rally for Peace led by Iglesia ni Cristo, wherein many members and their primary church Templo Central reside in Quezon City,” the QC local government said.
The city government of Iloilo also ordered the suspension of face-to-face classes at all levels today in anticipation of the huge crowd joining the INC gathering at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.
Mayor Jerry Treñas on Sunday instructed concerned offices to hold a coordination meeting with the organizers of the peace rally to “ensure a
seamless operation.”
In Davao, businessman and PDP bet Cesar Cuntapay said allies and supporters of the Duterte family will hold a separate nationwide prayer rally today.
Cuntapay told Manila Standard that although it was originally an INC rally, it was decided upon further discussion with supporters that the activity would be a simultaneous rally done nationwide.
Over the weekend, Sagip party-list Rodante Marcoleta said INC will not take sides between President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte.
“The INC does not take sides. That is a categorical answer there. The INC would like to see people like the Vice President and the President work together. That is the essence of good government,” he said.
“It’s a rally for peace, that’s all. I think the INC wants to send a message across the nation that peace is a factor in achieving development and progress in this country. The INC believes that
peace can only be achieved by uniting our people, and this unity can be best demonstrated by our leaders,” Marcoleta said.
Three impeachment complaints have been filed against Duterte before the House of Representatives based on multiple grounds, including culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, bribery, and other high crimes.
Mr. Marcos earlier said he does not support calls for Duterte’s impeachment as it would not help the Filipino people.
Earlier, an anchor from INC’s official broadcast arm also sought to debunk “fake news” claiming that the religious organization’s rally on Monday was intended to defend the Vice President.
“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.
He said the deployment aimed to ensure Chinese patrols “are not normalized, and that this bullying behavior does not succeed.”
“Despite the imposing size of CCG-5901, the PCG vessel has boldly approached its starboard side at a close range, effectively hindering the China Coast Guard vessel’s attempts to move towards the Zambales coastline,” he added.
It was disclosed that the PCG con -
sistently communicated over the radio, reminding the Chinese crew that they were unlawfully operating within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile EEZ and did not possess any legal authority to conduct maritime patrols within the area.
The PCG official said that Chinese patrol ships earlier this month had come as close as 60 nautical miles (111 kilometers) west of the main Philippine island of Luzon.
“Their goal is to normalize such deployments, and if these actions go unnoticed and unchallenged, it will enable them to alter the existing status
quo,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the PCG called on the international community to take a stand against China’s escalating maritime aggression in the WPS, warning that unchecked actions by Beijing could embolden further territorial encroachments in Southeast Asia.
Tarriela emphasized the importance of exposing China’s unlawful deployments within the Philippines’ EEZ to prevent Beijing from normalizing its activities and altering the status quo.
He cautioned that China’s aggressive maneuvers are not just a threat to
the Philippines but also to other nations with claims in the vast international waters such as Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
The PCG underscored the need for collective action to deter China’s provocations, stating that a united global front is crucial to upholding international maritime law and ensuring the sovereignty of nations in the region.
Malacañang also earlier expressed its concern over China’s continuing saberrattling moves in the WPS, reiterating its commitment to protecting the country’s territorial integrity.
his social media accounts on Sunday.
“May the community’s road to recovery begin with strength, compassion, and solidarity,” he added.
Firefighters were racing against time over the weekend to get on top of the massive wildfires around Los Angeles as winds ramped up, pushing the blazes towards previously untouched neighborhoods.
At least 16 people were now confirmed dead from fires that have ripped through the city, leaving communities in ruins and testing the mettle of thousands of firefighters—and millions of California residents.
The Palisades fire was 11 percent contained Saturday but had grown to 23,600 acres (9,500 hectares), while the Eaton Fire was at 14,000 acres and 15 percent contained.
Official figures show more than 12,000 structures burned, but Cal Fire’s Todd Hopkins said not all were homes, and the number would also include outbuildings, RVs, vehicles and sheds.
A huge investigation was underway to determine what caused the blazes, involving the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with local authorities, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said.
“We are not going to leave any rock unturned,” he said.
“If this is a criminal act—I’m not saying it’s going to be—if it is, we need to hold whoever did this, or groups responsible,” Luna added, appealing for anyone who had information to come forward.
While the ignition of a wildfire can be deliberate, they are often natural, and a vital part of an environment’s life cycle.
But urban sprawl puts people more frequently in harm’s way, and the changing climate—supercharged by humanity’s unchecked use of fossil fuels—is exacerbating the conditions that give rise to destructive blazes. With AFP
discuss progress made on mutual cooperation, economic matters, and recent regional and global developments.
The three countries have stepped up security cooperation to blunt China’s efforts to control most of the region’s waters.
Last April, Biden, Marcos, and then-Japanese PM Fumio Kishida met in a historic trilateral meet -
ing in Washington and discussed a broad range of issues, including security cooperation, infrastructure development, and regional economic resilience.
In December, the US, Japan and the Philippines also held a multilat-
eral maritime cooperative activity to demonstrate joint commitment to safeguarding international waters and ensuring free navigation in the IndoPacific region in light of rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea and beyond. With AFP
self, at home, and even in the community by limiting time spent on gadgets and gossip, obeying traffic rules, and disposing of garbage properly.
“Self-disciplined, disciplined at home and disciplined on the streets. Discipline in handling gadgets, avoiding gossip, discipline in driving, speaking, and throwing of garbage,” the President said in Filipino as he tried to drive home his point.
Mr. Marcos also took advantage of the online platform to make a case for more patriotism.
“The “Bagong Pilipino” [New Filipino] is patriotic. They have a renewed sense of patriotism,” he said describing his vision of the ideal citizen.
The President also called on the public to embrace a culture of excellence, emphasizing that Filipinos should not settle for mediocrity.
“We are exceptional [by nature] so we should put it in our thinking. Now, what is good enough is not enough),” he said.
Mr. Marcos vowed to continuously support and honor Filipinos who excel in their chosen fields.
As for his personal New Year’s resolution, the President said he will make it a point to take better care of his health.
“Because of the amount of work I do, it’s really forbidden to get sick. It is forbidden not to go to work. It is absolutely forbidden to not have a clear and sound mind,” he said.
In the case of an Alert Level 4 declaration, the LGU said it has developed OPLAN EXODUS, a disaster response plan aimed at educating residents, particularly those in high-risk areas, about evacuation procedures.
A key component of this initiative is the intensified outreach to internally displaced persons sheltered outside designated evacuation cent -
ers, ensuring their comprehensive information and preparedness for any potential emergencies.
Camp managers are entrusted with organizing essential evacuation items, such as emergency kits and “go bags” while facilitating discussions at home to ensure that all family members are fully cognizant of the evacuation procedures.
The LGU has also formalized a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with neighboring localities—Vallehermoso, Guihulngan City, La Libertad, and
Ayungon—designated as potential evacuation sites.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) meanwhile reported an ash emission activity reaching 500 meters and lasting for 10 minutes at Kanlaon in Negros Island on Sunday.
Alert Level 3 remains hoisted over Kanlaon Volcano. It recorded 14 volcanic earthquakes, including two weak tremors, from 50 minutes to one hour and 57 minutes from Jan. 11 to Jan. 12 at 12 a.m. The
ash emission produced 3,511 tons of sulfur dioxide on Saturday. Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol, in an interview over dzBB, said: “We have noticed a ground deformation at the southeastern side. There is inflation. And if you look at our sulfur dioxide (emission), it suddenly decreased.” Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian said he directed its Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) to work double time in
augmenting the stockpiles of family food packs in Western Visayas and Central Visayas.
The goal of the DRMG-National Resource and Logistics Management Bureau is to preposition 100,000 boxes of family food packs in Negros Island, he said.
Gatchalian instructed the DRMGNRLMB officials to make sure that by Jan. 13, 40,000 boxes of food packs have been delivered to Negros Oriental and another 40,000 packs to Negros Occidental. Rio Araja
PUP HOPEFULS. At least 116,000 senior high school students line up at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila to take the annual entrance examination on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Danny Pata
MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
Survey says majority of Pinoys see health, inflation as top concerns
AN OCTA Research survey said majority of Filipinos still consider health and inflation as their top concerns.
The Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey, released on Sunday, revealed that 56% of adult Filipinos consider controlling the prices of basic goods and commodities as their top national concern, a significant drop from 66% in the previous quarter.
“This is a significant drop of 10 percentage points from the 66% registered during the 3rd Quarter of 2024,” OCTA, quoted by media reports, said.
Following inflation, access to affordable food (44%), improving wages (36%), poverty reduction (34%), and job creation (29%) were identified as key concerns, the survey said.
The survey also highlighted regional disparities. In Balance Luzon, staying healthy was the most significant concern (79%), while in Visayas, having enough to eat daily was a pressing issue (60%). In terms of education, finishing school was a major concern for Filipinos in Balance Luzon (57%) and Mindanao (55%).
Further, the survey revealed socioeconomic differences. Staying healthy was a top priority for Class D Filipinos (73%), while Class E expressed
Solon: Congress super committee ready to tackle food, power prices
By Rio N. Araja
THE House of Representatives led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez will continue to exercise its oversight functions to address the causes of soaring food and electricity costs, and even ensure accountability in the use of public funds, Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said Sunday.
“ We will continue to strengthen the power of Congress to go after irregularities that make things difficult for our people. We will not let this ill practice go on just like this to affect prices of food and electricity go up,” he said.
The Quinta Comm, also known as the Murang Pagkain Super Committee, is actively investigating agricultural smuggling, hoarding, and price manipulation, which have been identified as key factors driv -
ing food inflation.
“We are uncovering the mechanisms that allow cartels to thrive, and this House is determined to dismantle these networks of greed,” Gonzales said.
The House committees on ways and means and legislative franchises have been scrutinizing the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to ensure it meets its obligations, pays the proper taxes and refrains from passing undue charges to consumers.
The Quad Comm, for its part, has been taking up critical issues, including illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, their links to money laundering, and extrajudicial killings during the Duterte administration.
“This probe is not just about accountability: It is about upholding human rights and protecting our national interests,” Gonzales said.
Lawmaker claims survey showed Duterte myth has been shattered
WITH recent survey results showing 41% of Filipinos agreeing with the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte and 61% supporting the Quad Committee hearings, one thing is crystal clear: the so-called Duterte myth has been shattered, according to Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre.
“Add to that the consistent drop in VP Duterte’s trust ratings, and it’s obvious that the people are fed up. They’re tired of the same old Duterte-style politics — a culture of impunity, bullying tactics, and decisions that prioritize power over public service,” he said in a statement. He said the Filipino people have had enough of leaders who govern through fear and division, instead of hope and unity.
“The numbers don’t lie. People are demanding accountability and transparency, and they’re looking for leaders who will serve with integrity, compassion, and
a clear vision for the future — not leaders who thrive on impunity and entitlement,” he said.
“On the face of these issues, there is no middle ground. Either we stand by the wayside and allow this type of politics to continue, or we take a firm stand to hold the Dutertes accountable. The choice is ours—our silence enables impunity, but our courage can spark change,” he added.
The party-list lawmaker clarified that the matter is not just about one person or one family.
“It’s about a shift in our collective consciousness as a nation. Filipinos want a new kind of politics —one that’s built on fairness, accountability, and respect for the rule of law,” he noted.
“The surveys prove it: the days of impunity and political theatrics are numbered. It’s time for leaders to listen to the people and embrace a governance style that puts the public’s welfare front and center,” he cited. Rio N. Araja
concern about job security and income (68%).
Having enough to eat was a major concern for Class D (52%), while saving money was a priority for Class ABC (54%), the survey said.
In education, OCTA said the survey revealed that “finishing school or being able to provide schooling for their children is a significant concern for adult Filipinos in Balance Luzon (57%) and Mindanao (55%) while having enough to eat daily is a pressing personal concern in Visayas (60%).
The TNM survey was conducted through face-toface interviews from November 10 to 16, 2024, with 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above. The survey has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level.
ININBRIEFBRIEF
4 nabbed over gun ban, checkpoints in place
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that four persons were apprehended early Sunday after the nationwide gun ban took effect amid the election period for the May 2025 polls.
PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said some of the firearms that were confiscated from those arrested were pistols and long guns.
Authorities also reported that checkpoints have been implemented as mandated by the Commission on Elections in Quezon City. The Quezon City Police District under Col. Melecio Buslig Jr. ordered the establishment of checkpoints that took effect yesterday at 12:01 a.m. At least 33 checkpoints have been strategically established city-wide to ensure security and compliance with election-related regulations during the election period from Jan. 12 to June 11. Rio N. Araja
Kalookan’s Cardinal David gets key Vatican post
POPE Francis has appointed Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, Bishop of Kalookan in the Philippines, to the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the body responsible for promoting and safeguarding Catholic doctrine.
David joins a group of new appointees, including Cardinal Jaime Spengler, O.F.M., Archbishop of Porto Alegre, Brazil; Cardinal Ignace Bessi Dogbo, Archbishop of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire; and Cardinal Roberto Repole, Archbishop of Turin and Bishop of Susa, Italy.
The appointment was announced in a Vatican bulletin on January 11, 2025, which also included other resignations and appointments. In December 2024, David was elevated to the College of Cardinals, becoming the 10th cardinal from the Philippines.
AFTERNOON STROLL . Visitors engage in an afternoon stroll at the famed Mansion House, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Baguio City.
Bora beaches explode with dancing during Ati-Atihan fest
By Jun N. Aguirre
BORACAY Island—At least 34
groups joined this year’s Ati-Atihan festival on this famous resort island, according to the Malay Tourism Office,.
Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista said the festivity held on Sunday morning (Jan. 12) was unique because it was the only festival in the country celebrated on the beach.
Among the participating groups was a real Ati indigenous people tribe who saw action in the beach dancing parade, along with local the residents and tourists in honor of the Sto. Nino icon.
The parade usually begins at the parish to the front beach, covering about kilometers stretch,.
Bautista said the Ati=Atihan festival on Boracay began in 2012, although the maiden beach revelry was held in January 2013.
He said the festival was organized by the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish and was supported by the local government.
Aside from the beach dance parade, other Boracay Ati-Atihan festivities included a food bazaar, a pilgrims’ Mass, and a fluvial parade.
The Malay police station reported that there was no untoward incident during the revelry.
IN BRIEF
Ex-judge launches book of poems by dad, brod
JUDGE Hilario Laqui (ret.) launched on Saturday afternoon a book embodying a collection of poems written by his father and a brother from Cuenca, Batangas province.
The book, titled “Tilamsik ng Diwa,” was actually a compilation of poems authored by his fther Apolonio and brother Mario.
Laqui, president of the Association of Retired RTC Judges of the Philippines Inc., said he was proud of the literary creations of his father and a brother that should be endowed to the younger generations.
“I hope that this book will inspire the youth to continue writing and reciting poems that tell stories, teach lessons, and instill values. Our culture and tradition must continue,” Laqui told the Manila Standard. Pot Chavez
Pinoy tra cking victim Intercepted at NAIA
IMMIGRATION agents have prevented a Filipino from leaving the country amid suspicions he was a victim of trafficking and would be working for a crime ring in Cambodia.
BI Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section chief Mary Jane Hizon said the 39 yearold man initially posed as a tourist bound for Hanoi, Vietnam on board a Cebu Pacific flight at the NAIA Terminal 3. “The traveler claimed that his trip was ‘on-the-spot’ or spontaneous. However, his inconsistent responses during primary questioning raised suspicions, prompting his referral for secondary inspection,” said Hizon. During the secondary interview, the passenger disclosed that he had been recruited via Facebook and lured with promises of employment at a business process outsourcing (BPO) company. Vito Barcelo
Alien nabbed for illegal practice of medicine
THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) announced on Sunday the arrest of a Vietnamese national in Mandaluyong City for alleged violation of R.A. No. 2382 (Illegal Practice of Medicine).
The NBI – Organized and Transnational Crime Division (OTCD) identified the suspect as Trinh Thi Kieu Nguyen or Dr. Rosa. NBI director Jaime Santiago said the operation stemmed from information that illegal practice of medicine was being perpetrated by a female Vietnamese national at a beauty clinic in Mandaluyong. The medical procedures offered by the clinic included eyelid surgery, vaginal tightening, Botox and other cosmetic procedures for a fee. Pot Chavez
CAAP aims to stamp out bird strikes to avoid plane mishaps
By Joel E. Zurbano
PHILIPPINE aviation authorities are doing a delicate balancing act between public safety and environment protection amid increasing threats of bird strikes on aircraft.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is looking at sustainable counter-measures meant to enhance aviation
safety across the country without jeopardizing wildlife.
The CAAP took the initiative in light of an airplane crash in South Korea late last month, killing 179 people on board. It was deemed the country’s worst aviation disaster, blamed to a bird strike.
Last year, the CAAP reported 181 bird strikes at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) alone. While the agency has implemented preventive measures such as dispersal tools and habitat control, the need for long-term solutions persisted.
The Manila International Airport
are working closely to reduce the avian hazards. However, birds usually congregate on grassy areas close to the airport, attracted by insects, lizards, and frogs inhabiting the drainage systems.
MIAA general manager Eric Ines said various deterrent measures have been deployed, including acoustic devices, methane-powered cannons, and balloons designed to resemble predator eyes. Over time however, the birds tend to adapt to these methods, rendering them ineffective.
Pigeons for instance, pose a unique challenge due to their unpredictable behavior, making it difficult to remove
OF PASSAGE. Philippine
undergo the
Group assails dismissal of Dengvaxia raps vs. Garin, others
By Rio N. Araja
PARENTS of school children who allegedly died due to Dengvaxia vaccination on Sunday assailed the dismissal of criminal, civil and administrative suits filed with the Quezon City courts and the Sandiganbayan against ex-De-
partment of Health chief Janette Garin and several medical doctors.
Sumachen Dominguez, president of the Samahan ng mga Magulang, Anak at Biktima ng Dengvaxia (SMABD), asserted that the cases were still pending, while the Office of the Solicitor General sought a reo-
pening of eight Dengvaxia-related charges dismissed by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court. She clarified that Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra had filed petitions for review on certiorari before the Court of Appeals, questioning the cases’ dismissal.
“The fight is not yet over. We will not give up,” she said.
“We avoid to say anything (about it) on social media since the cases are already at the proper venues,” she added.
She lauded Supreme Court’s Assistant Court Administrator Lilian Barribal-Co for ordering the QCRTCBranch 102 to set a pre-trial conference on the 35 other Dengvaxia cases.
Out of the 100 criminal complaints, 82 of them were already resolved by the Department of Justice for filing, while 18 others already dismissed had been the subject of petitions for review, Co noted.
On the other hand, the counterpart civil cases of the 169 criminal cases, 158 of them were already filed before the QCRTC-Branch 226 Judge Manuel Sta. Cruz, the SMABD said.
The group clarified that the criminal case filed before the Sandiganbayan by the National Bureau of Investigation was still pending trial after the anti-graft court’s denial of a motion to quash filed by Garin and the other respondents.
them from airport environs. Local governments have been urged to enforce an eight-kilometer no-pigeonraising zone around airports.
A bird sanctuary near Cavite’s coastal road close to the NAIA has also sparked a controversy. Aviation experts have raised concerns about its origins and the increased aviation risks the sanctuary poses.
The area was originally a reclaimed site that eventually transformed into a dumping ground, later becoming a pseudo-sanctuary for migratory birds. Experts have questioned its designation as a sanctuary, emphasizing the potential risks to aviation.
Senator eyes plantilla for contractual gov’t workers
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has picked up the cudgels for contractual government workers particularly those who have been in the bureaucracy for 10 years or so.
Gatchalian was seeking the inclusion of a provision creating plantilla positions in the bureaucracy rightsizing bill to accommodate “qualified contractual employees” who have been in the government service for a good part of their lives.
“I would like to propose some form of language where part of the mandate is to create plantilla positions to accommodate contractual employees who are qualified,” Gatchalian said in a statement.
He pointed out that many contractual employees have held their respective positions for over 10 years and were already compliant with civil service requirements. The problem was there is no plantilla items for them.
A plantilla position refers to a permanent position with a salary allocation in the annual national budget.
Gatchalian asserted that rightsizing should not only focus on improving government efficiency, but must also provide state workers with appropriate positions for the functions they have been performing for quite some time.
The senator emphasized that the lack of plantilla items should not hinder efforts to improve government efficiency in delivering public services.
During a previous consultative meeting on Senate Bill 890 or the Rightsizing the National Government Act, Gatchalian asked Department of Budget and Management representatives to provide estimates on the potential savings the government could generate if the proposed rightsizing bill becomes a law.
Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, stressed that any savings mustered from the rightsizing measure could help improve the government’s fiscal position without resorting to imposing new taxes. Ram Superable
RITE
Navy ag o cer in command Rear Admiral Jose Ma. Espeleta makes history by being the rst Navy chief to
Marine Corp’s rite of passage—a special call to arms—at the Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown in Taguig City. Marine commandant Maj. Gen. Arturo Rojas who joined the exercise pinned the honorary Marine emblem on Espeleta.
RED, PLUMP, JUICY, YUMMY STRAWBERRIES. Tourists flock to the Old Stone Market in Baguio City to buy strawberries which incidentally at in season. Dave Leprozo
THE REAL MCCOY. A group of genuine Ati tribesmen joins Boracay’s Atihan-Atihan festival which celebrates the feast of the Sto. Niño or the young Jesus Christ. Jun N. Aguirre
OPINION
2025 wish list: Policies and action that matter
AS WE welcome 2025, Filipino consumers carry a collective wish list—a hopeful call for responsive governance and efficient policies that address their daily struggles.
This list stems not from mere desire but from pressing realities highlighted by recent surveys and economic data.
Inflation continues to weigh heavily on Filipino households. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported a rise in headline inflation to 2.9 percent in Dec. 2024, driven by higher costs of housing, utilities, and fuels.
While the annual average inflation rate fell to 3.2 percent from 6.0 percent in 2023, consumers still grapple with unstable prices, especially for essentials like rice.
The Marcos administration has imposed temporary price ceilings on rice and reduced tariff rates for imports. Yet, consumers demand sustainable solutions to shield them from price volatility caused by smuggling and market manipulation, and geopolitical realities. A thriving agricultural sector must be prioritized to ensure food security and stable market prices.
According to a recent Pulse Asia survey, 74 percent of Filipinos identified controlling inflation as the most urgent national concern—a clear call for the government to stabilize prices and safeguard consumer welfare.
Increasing the pay of workers is another pressing concern, with 36 percent of respondents highlighting it as a priority.
While wage increases in 14 regions—including a P35 hike in Metro Manila—are steps in the right direction, workers continue to seek fair compensation that keeps pace with the rising cost of living.
Consumers wish for more comprehensive labor reforms that secure dignified and sufficient earnings for all.
Poverty reduction remains critical, as 31 percent of survey participants emphasized its urgency.
The alarming rise in self-rated poverty to 63 percent by the end of 2024, reported by the Social Weather Stations, underscores the need for more effective poverty alleviation strategies.
We must strengthen social protection programs and promote sustainable livelihood initiatives to uplift the most vulnerable sectors of our society.
Creating more jobs also ranked high, with 27 percent of Filipinos citing it as a major concern.
While the unemployment rate dropped to 3.2 percent in November 2024, consumers call for more than just job creation—they seek stable, quality, and wellpaying employment opportunities that foster long-term economic security.
This makes it even more urgent for the government to stimulate quality foreign investments that build sustainable industries.
Encouraging investments in green technology, green energy, manufacturing, critical minerals development, critical infrastructure, and digital innovation can generate resilient jobs and drive long term and most importantly, inclusive economic growth.
Medical Assistance Program and additional support for pregnant women and young children under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program are positive steps.
However, the absence of a PhilHealth subsidy in the 2025 budget raises concerns about healthcare accessibility and sustainability. Filipinos deserve an inclusive, well-funded universal healthcare system that prioritizes the most vulnerable.
Infrastructure development continues to advance with strategic projects in agriculture, disaster resilience, education, health, energy, housing, and transport.
Increasing the pay of workers is another pressing concern, with 36 percent of respondents highlighting it as a priority
The government’s 28 priority projects under the Luzon Economic Corridor and the approval of major initiatives like the Ilocos Norte-Ilocos Sur-Abra Irrigation Project and the Accelerated Bridge Construction Project show promise. However, consumers expect these efforts to yield real benefits in job creation and economic stability.
The Pulse Asia survey also sheds light on what Filipinos expect from their legislators.
The top duties identified include proposing and passing legislation (43 percent), implementing livelihood programs (43 percent), providing medical assistance (42 percent), and reviewing the government budget (40 percent).
These insights reflect the public’s demand for proactive and compassionate governance that directly improves their daily lives.
As the lead convenor of CitizenWatch Philippines, I urge every Filipino to choose leaders who are not only qualified but also possess the intellect, track record, integrity, and commitment to control inflation, reduce poverty, and attract investments for job creation.
We need leaders who deliver responsive, well-implemented policies—not empty promises.
Our collective hope for 2025 is a Philippines where inflation is tamed, energy is affordable, jobs are abundant and fair, poverty is diminished, healthcare is accessible, and infrastructure uplifts every Filipino.
This can only happen if we elect transformative leaders who prioritize good governance, transparency, and effective policy execution.
Let this year be one where these wishes transform into reality.
By choosing leaders who lead with integrity and purpose – and doing our part as productive citizens – we can build a just, prosperous, and resilient nation.
Polymer
HAVING been out of town during much of the holiday season, my first encounter with the bank for the new year was to withdraw some cash for household needs last week.
It was the first time the bank gave me a bundle of purely polymer banknotes, the newly designed plastic bills. Of course I read the announcement of the Bangko Sentral when it proudly unveiled its obra maestra, the new generation polymer peso banknotes, where the nation’s heroes and former presidents were replaced by flora and fauna,
Poor perceptions
ASURVEY conducted by the Social Weather Stations on December 12-18 last year revealed that a majority of Filipinos—63 percent— see themselves as poor. This translates to 17.4 million Filipino families. Another 11 percent rate themselves borderline (the line dividing poor and not poor) while 26 percent say they were not poor.
The Dec. 2024 number was higher than the 59 percent in September, 58 percent in June, and 46 percent in March 2024.
For this particular survey, 2,160 adults nationwide were surveyed through face-to-face interviews. The
the country from which they import the abaca fibers has disdained its use.
The yellow-pinks are up in arms. Why remove Ninoy and Cory, along with all the other heroes and past presidents from the new generation notes?
It was in 1986, right after the EDSA revolution, that Jobo Fernandez’ Central Bank unveiled the Ninoy yellow 500-peso bill.
Then Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, right after EDSA Dos, had her inauguration as “acting” president at the back of a new green 200-peso bill, with her father, Diosdado on the face.
That was a much reviled banknote, and the BSP printed less and less of it, until in the time of PNoy, they removed the back feature of GMA’s oath-taking at the EDSA shrine.
But where was Marcos the First? Nowhere, even as Osmena and Roxas were in the 50 and 100 peso bills? Why no Magsaysay, the beloved of the “masa?”
some of which were unrecognizable to most Filipinos.
The abaca farmers in Bicol, Southern Leyte and the few still remaining in Davao are complaining, “pati ba naman pera, pinagkait sa kanila?” It’s bad enough that Manila hemp, which all ships used in the previous century, has been universally replaced by plastic.
Abaca slippers and other handicrafts such as placemats from the sturdy fiber have been replaced by plastic as well.
The yen still uses paper money, made more durable by abaca fibers, but
As a small boy growing up in San Pablo City, I remember small paper notes that had 10, 20 and 50-centavo denominations in red, green and violet colors, but that was when the peso was two to one US dollar.
(Editor’s note: From the 1940s post liberation to the early 1960s, the 10-centavo bill was light violet, the 20-centavo bill was light green, the 50-centavo bill was blue, which became later as green and bigger in size than the old blue but smaller than the one-peso bill with the mark half-peso. There was a one-peso bill in black, with Mabini as the hero with the Barasoain church photo on the back side,
sampling error margin was +/- 2 percent for national percentages. The self-rated poverty is the highest in 21 years.
We hope, too, that this perception of poverty will jolt our leaders into thinking about their priorities.
The numbers differ across geographical locations, of course, and some areas registered marked increases while some remained steady. Nonetheless, the national figures are an important indication of what our leaders should focus on for this year and onward. Ultimately, economics remains the top concern of the people. Despite the political noises that plagued the country toward the latter part of 2024, Filipinos remained primarily concerned with their economic security—whether they are able to provide the basic needs of their family.
a two-peso bill with Jose Rizal as the hero and the landing of Magellan in Ccbu on the back side, a five-peso bill with Sergio Osmena and the mark Victory on the other side, and a 50-peso bill with the blood compact between Magellan and Lapu Lapu.) Later, when Diosdado Macapagal “floated” the exchange rate and “decontrolled” the economy, the exchange rate became 3.20 to the dollar and under martial law, it slowly rose to 8 pesos to the US currency.
Of course polymer money lasts longer and is di cult to fake unlike paper money
In the crisis of 1982-83, and after the murder of Ninoy at the tarmac, it spiraled all the way to 25 to the dollar. Now it is 58 to the dollar, likely 59 months after Trump becomes POTUS, and 60 or more depending on how the Federal Reserve acts on interest rates. Whether it is paper or polymer, what really matters to the Filipino is the peso’s purchasing power, which has been depreciating continuously, more so in the past two years, where rice used to be one peso per ganta (the wag-wag variety where a ganta or salop equaled 2.8 kilos) two generations ago. When we went metric in the time of Marcos the First, we replaced the ganta
When official statistics determine whether people are poor or not is one thing; when it is the people themselves who say they cannot meet their fundamental needs is quite another. People’s response to such surveys are borne out of their lived experiences and their daily struggles. This is what makes the survey results compelling and credible. We hope, too, that this perception of poverty will jolt our leaders into thinking about their priorities. Programs providing one-time assistance to the needy could be helpful on a single instance, but renders the families ultimately poor and helpless again the next time around. A more effective and sustainable, albeit longer term, solution is to ensure ample investments that would create jobs for Filipinos. These, in turn, would enable them to earn a decent living. It is work that ultimately gives dignity to our people. It is work that would allow Filipinos to see themselves neither poor nor hopeless, and that would enable them to contemplate a better life for themselves and their children. The people deserve no less.
to the kilo, at a price of 1.80 per kilo. It has now zoomed to 58, according to the Department of Agriculture. But in the wet markets, 5 to 10percent broken rice is at least 60 pesos per kilo. And the 25 percent brokens, which NFA 10 years ago sold at 27 per kilo is nowhere to be found, because our import-dependent rice traders prefer to import the better varieties, where the margins are much better. Some say that the Bangko Sentral decided to replace heroes and notables with flora and fauna because of the 500 peso Ninoy and Cory, while there is no Marcos the First, and it would be politically incorrect to now inaugurate a Marcos banknote. So, erase everybody else. Neat.
The polymer banknotes are imported, from Australia and the UK, and the East Avenue mint and printing plant established by Marcos the First, at the time state-of-the-art, is now idled. As in rice, food and practically everything else, imports replaced local.
Of course polymer money lasts longer and is difficult to fake unlike paper money. It is less susceptible to bacteriaformation. It does have advantages. But there is another take to the shift. Could it be that our politicians and their cohorts prefer plastic because they cannot deposit their hidden wealth in the banks, as that would lead to a paper trail in case they are investigated for plunder?
And paper money, hidden in rooms and vaults, could be eaten up by termites or “anay” while plastic is lighter, thinner, and termite-proof?
Pardon my mischievous mind.
MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025
Firefighters race to beat LA blazes; 16 confirmed dead
At least 16 people were now confirmed dead from fires that have ripped through the city, leaving communities in ruins and testing the mettle of thousands of firefighters—and millions of California residents.
LOS ANGELES – Firefighters were racing against time Saturday (Sunday in Manila) to get on top of massive wildfires around Los Angeles as winds ramped up, pushing the blazes towards previously untouched neighborhoods. Counsel who led
Despite heroic efforts, including precision sorties from aerial crews, the Palisades Fire continued to grow Saturday, pushing east towards the priceless collections of the Getty Center art museum and north to the densely populated San Fernando Valley.
“We’re a nervous wreck,” Sarah Cohen told the Los Angeles Times of the threat to her Tarzana home.
“Every time they drop water, it gets better. But then it gets worse again.”
Footage from the Mandeville Canyon area showed one home consumed, with a wall of flame licking up a hillside to menace others.
A brief lull in the wind was rapidly giving way to gusts that forecasters warned would feed the blazes for days to come.
“Critical fire-weather conditions will unfortunately ramp up again today for southern California and last through at least early next week,” the National Weather Service said.
Seoul confirms Ukraine seized 2 NoKor troops
SEOUL—South Korea’s National Intelligence Service on Sunday backed up Ukraine’s account of having captured two wounded North Korean soldiers this week in Russia, after Kyiv said they were being questioned.
Ukraine, the United States and South Korea have accused nucleararmed North Korea of sending more than 10,000 soldiers to help bolster Russian forces.
Seoul’s National Intelligence Service said in a statement it has “confirmed that the Ukrainian military captured two North Korean soldiers on Jan. 9 in the Kursk battlefield in Russia”.
On Saturday, Ukrainian intelligence released a video showing the two men in hospital bunks, one with bandaged hands and the other with a bandaged jaw.
A doctor at the detention center said the first man also had a broken leg.
The SBU said the men had told interrogators they were experienced army soldiers, and one said he was sent to Russia for training, not fighting.
But Kyiv did not present direct evidence that the captured men were North Korean and AFP was unable to independently verify their nationalities. AFP
“This may lead to the spread of ongoing fires as well as the development of new ones.”
Survivors were cautioned to not spend time outside or to wear a mask to avoid inhaling toxic particles from the thick smoke that wreathes the city.
The Palisades fire was 11 percent contained Saturday but had grown to 23,600 acres (9,500 hectares), while the Eaton Fire was at 14,000 acres and 15 percent contained.
Official figures show more than 12,000 structures burned, but Cal Fire’s Todd Hopkins said not all were homes, and the number would also include outbuildings, RVs, vehicles and sheds.
With reports of looting and a nighttime curfew in place, police and National Guard have mounted checkpoints to prevent people getting into the disaster zones.
But that has left residents frustrated as they queue for up to 10 hours to try to get back in and see what, if any-
Suspended Yoon won’t attend first impeachment hearing
SEOUL—South Korea’s suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol will not attend the first hearing of his impeachment trial next week because of safety concerns, his lawyer said on Sunday.
Yoon has been holed up in the presidential residence and protected by an elite guard force since being suspended and impeached last month, following a short-lived declaration of martial law that plunged the country into political chaos. He has refused to meet prosecutors and investigators and his presidential guard unit thwarted an attempt to ar-
scheduled five trial dates spanning January 14 to February 4, which will proceed in his absence if he does not attend.
“Concerns about safety and potential incidents have arisen. Therefore, the President will not be able to attend the trial on January 14,” lawyer Yoon Kab-keun said in a statement sent to AFP.
“The President is willing to appear at any time once safety issues are resolved.”
The court will decide whether to uphold his impeachment or restore him to office.
Separately, investigators seeking to question Yoon on insurrection charges linked to his ill-fated martial law declaration are preparing another arAFP
BEIJING – Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a special envoy to attend the third swearing in of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro, state-run Xinhua reported Saturday, underscoring Beijing’s lonely position as one of Caracas’s few international allies.
A defiant Maduro was sworn in for a new presidential term Friday in a ceremony decried as illegitimate by the opposition and internationally, with Washington offering a $25 million reward for his arrest.
Washington and London have imposed sanctions on Maduro’s regime,
and only two prominent regional leaders—Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and Nicaraguan ex-guerrilla Daniel Ortega—attended his inauguration.
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his congratulations, but traditional left-wing allies, including Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, pointedly stayed away.
Xi’s envoy, Wang Dongming, met with Maduro at the presidential palace after the ceremony.
“Wang conveyed cordial greetings and good wishes from Xi to Maduro and congratulated him on his re-elec-
MILITARY INTERVENTION.
Colombia’s former President (20022010) Alvaro Uribe gestures during his visit to Cucuta, in the Colombia-Venezuela border on Sunday, where he called for an international military intervention in Venezuela ‘to oust’ Nicolas Maduro from power following his disputed inauguration on the eve for a third consecutive term. AFP
tion as president of Venezuela,” Xinhua reported.
The pair reinforced China and Venezuela’s “all-weather strategic partnership,” with Wang reportedly saying that Beijing is willing to “develop” their friendship and “push forward” bilateral relations.
“Maduro asked Wang to convey his highest respect and sincere greetings to Xi,” the report continued.
Venezuela “stands ready to join hands with China to ... lift bilateral ties to a new level,” Maduro said, according to Xinhua. AFP
IN BRIEF
legal fight over the report on Trump-related cases is coming down to the week or so before he is inaugurated as America’s 47th president on January 20. AFP
Netanyahu orders top officials to Qatar
JERUSALEM—Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent a delegation of senior officials to Qatar for negotiations on a hostage release and Gaza ceasefire deal, his office said during the weekend.
Netanyahu held a meeting in Jerusalem with US president-elect Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, a representative of current US President Joe Biden and senior Israeli officials, the prime minister’s office said in a statement.
Following the meeting, Netanyahu instructed the heads of the Mossad spy agency and Shin Bet security agency as well as General Nitzan Alon and foreign policy adviser Ophir Falk “to depart for Doha in order to continue advancing a deal to release our hostages”, the statement said.
The United States has for more than a year been mediating talks alongside Qatar and Egypt for an end to the war in Gaza alongside the release of hostages.
The announcement was welcomed by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a campaign group for those held in Gaza, which called it “a historic opportunity to secure the release of all our loved ones”.
“Leave no stone unturned and return with an agreement that ensures the return of all hostages, down to the last one,” it said in a statement.
Indirect negotiations between Israel and the Islamist militant group Hamas resumed last weekend in Qatar. AFP
French far-right firebrand Le Pen buried in private rites
LA TRINITE-SUR-MER, France
– Jean-Marie Le Pen, co-founder of France’s main postwar far-right movement, was buried Saturday in a private ceremony in his native Brittany amid tight security.
His funeral followed a mass in his hometown of La Trinite-sur-Mer in the western region.
The funeral was attended by his daughter Marine Le Pen, who took over her father’s political mantle, and other family members, political allies and close friends.
Authorities beefed up security ahead of the ceremony, with barriers erected around the cemetery and doz-
ens of police mobilized.
Security was tightened and protests banned after hundreds took to the streets in Paris and other cities to pop champagne corks and celebrate 96-year-old Le Pen’s death on Tuesday.
Marine Le Pen and one of her two sisters, Marie-Caroline, walked the few hundred metres between the family home and the small church of Saint-Joseph under blue skies in front of a small crowd of onlookers and several dozen journalists.
“It’s moving for me to pay my last respects to him here and to pray for the salvation of his soul,” said one of the guests, Bruno Gollnisch, JeanMarie Le Pen’s one-time right-hand man.
“He was a joyful comrade!” Some locals praised Le Pen’s devotion to France.
“I came to pay tribute to a man who served France and loved France,” one mourner said.
Among others attending the ceremony was Jordan Bardella, the leader of the party Le Pen co-founded, now called the National Rally, according to several sources. Around 200 people were expected at the church service, after which Le Pen was buried in the vault where his parents rest.
AFP
FAR-RIGHT POLITICIAN. A priest leads a religious burial service next to the coffin of Jean-Marie Le Pen in his hometown of La Trinite-sur-Mer during the weekend.
The co-founder of the main French postwar far-right movement is to be buried at a strictly family-only funeral after his death aged 96 exposed polarising attitudes towards a figure who for decades shook and shocked the
The downtown Los Angeles skyline (far left) is seen in the distance as firefighters monitor the Palisades fire near the
Mandeville Canyon neighborhood and Encino, California, on Sunday, Manila time. The Palisades Fire, the largest of the Los Angeles fires, spread toward previously untouched
fires have ripped
SPORTS
Olympic champ Zheng relieved to survive Australian Open scare
MELBOURNE
—Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen admitted to firstday nerves after surviving a scare Sunday to reach the second round of the Australian Open.
The fifth seed needed to save three set points before battling past gutsy debutant Anca Todoni 7-6 (7/3), 6-1.
The Chinese player said she had the jitters as she opened proceedings on Rod Laver Arena a year after losing the 2024 final to Aryna Sabalenka on the famous showcourt.
“Actually, I felt really nervous,” the 22-year-old told reporters at Melbourne Park.
“I start to feel nervous already since yesterday because I felt special emotion for the Australian Open.
“I feel it’s one of the biggest tournament. I really like it here.”
As thunder reverberated around Rod Laver Arena, causing play to be suspended on outside courts, Zheng dug deep under the roof to overcome the world number 110 in almost two hours of play.
It had looked like a straightforward assignment when the heavy-hitting Chinese broke the 20-year-old Romanian to lead 5-3.
But Todoni, who has never beaten a top-10 player and was making her first appearance in the Australian Open main draw,
China’s Zheng Qinwen appears to be eyeing the ball as she hits a return against Romania’s Anca Todoni during their women’s singles match on Day 1 of the Australian Open
Spaun shoots 65 to seize Hawaii PGA lead as Fishburn fades
At 5-6, Zheng saved three Todoni set points to force a tiebreak which she wrapped up to seal a marathon first set after 75 minutes.
“The first set is always not easy, especially because I was doing stupid mistakes,” Zheng admitted.
Zheng, who did not play a warmup event before the first Grand Slam of the season, stepped up a gear in the second set, racing to a 3-0 lead before wrapping up the match with an ace in 1hr 56min.
“I am just happy to win the match,” said Zheng, who enjoyed vociferous support from a large Chinese contingent in the crowd.
“I was happy to win the tiebreak and start to find my rhythm.
“Feels like home, you know, because lot of crowd supporting me. I feel like I can get a lot of energy from them, especially when she get the set points.”
The 22-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough 2024, beating then number one Iga Swiatek on her way to winning Olympic gold in Paris and claiming three WTA titles.
“Queen Wen” ended the year at a career-high world number five after claiming the Pan Pacific Open title in Tokyo.
She reached the championship match at the WTA Tour Finals in Riyadh, where she was edged only in a final-set tiebreak by Coco Gauff.
Zheng will play either Laura Siegemund of Germany or American Hailey Baptiste in round two on Wednesday. AFP
Zamboanga nails elusive ONE title after stopping Rassohyna
DENICE “The Menace” Zamboanga can now officially call herself a World Champion.
Zamboanga put on a masterful performance to take the ONE Interim Women’s Atomweight MMA World Championship after stopping the #4-ranked Alyona Rassohyna in the co-main event of ONE Fight Night 27 on Saturday inside Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
In doing so, Zamboanga became the first Filipina MMA World Champion while also taking home the $50,000 bonus for her performance, as she ended years of heartbreaks and disappointment with easily the best performance of her career.
“I’ve been here for years. I’ve made it through hard work, tears, and everything. I’m really speechless.”
Zamboanga told Mitch Chilson after the match.
“The delays and injuries, I’ve been through a lot of injuries. Just last week I couldn’t even move my left arm but I didn’t want to cancel this fight because I know God will give me this fight.”
The 28-year-old, as expected, dominated the striking game by keeping the Ukrainian at bay with her hands –with the Filipina being quicker to the punch each time they traded blows on
the feet
But it was Zamboanga’s groundwork that truly captivated fans everywhere in this fight.
The T-Rex MMA standout defended the submission specialist’s takedowns easily while finding her way to a dominant position in the instances they hit the ground.
And it was in the same position where Zamboanga finally got the stoppage.
After escaping a desperate leg lock attempt from Rassohyna, Zamboanga found herself on top once more and rained down punches and elbows from side control to get the stoppage in the 4:47 mark of round two.
Immediately after the match, Zamboanga’s good friend and now biggest rival in ONE Women’s Atomweight MMA World Champion Stamp Fairtex congratulated her for the win, and shared how she’s getting close to returning.
“Congratulations Philippines! I’m so excited to fight her in the ring. I’m ready to fight her,” Stamp shared.
Islay Erika Bomogao stays unbeaten in OFF
It was a splendid weekend for Filipina combat sports as the night before Zamboanga’s golden conquest, it was Filipina Muay Thai star Islay Erika
BEIJING (AFP) -- For women e-sports players in China, mastering the game is just the first hurdle to carving out a space for themselves in the male-dominated field.
To compete, casually but especially professionally, they must also overcome vicious trolls, gender norms, familial expectations and limited opportunities. China has become one of the world’s largest markets for e-sports. Its teams participate in the top tier of international competitions, despite state media once dubbing video games “spiritual opium”.
E-sports in China generated more than $3.7 billion in revenue in 2024 and attracted 490 million viewers to sellout tournaments with lucrative prize pools and top players, according to an industry report by the China AudioVideo and Digital Publishing Association. But more than 90 percent of the 195 professional esports clubs in China are exclusively for men, by industry insiders’ estimation.
“People wouldn’t recognise my skills because I’m a girl,” professional e-sports player Liu Anqi, 23, told AFP after a game with her all-women club RE-girls.
“I wanted to prove them wrong and earn the title of ‘professional player’ so they couldn’t say I cheated or wasn’t good enough.”
Unsolicited, malicious comments follow them everywhere: their skills and strategies belittled, their voices and appearances picked on -- even their choice of character or usernames can make them targets.
“If you make a mistake, they say you don’t deserve to play professionally,” said Wang Qianna, an e-sports play-
Bomogao who took the spotlight. Bomogao took her second win in as many fights when she dominated Ran Longshu and took a comfortable unanimous decision win at ONE Friday Fights 93.
The 24-year-old put on a Muay Thai clinic as her attack varied from punches, elbows, knees and kicks –
er from Killer Angel Girl E-Sports Club (KA).
Even “Liooon” Li Xiaomeng, the country’s most prominent woman e-sports player, was questioned about whether her boyfriend was secretly playing for her.
Women gamers also face misogynistic accusations that they use sex to get promotions.
“I just throw these insults right back at them,” Wang said.
Women excluded
The challenges extend beyond online abuse.
Structural but often unspoken inequalities, like a lack of recruitment opportunities for women, make it harder
with that teep being used to perfection to combat the ultra-aggressive Chinese standout.
Bomogao was slick on her attack, as she dazzled Lumpinee by going in and out seamlessly and connecting against Ran pretty much whenever she wanted to.
After three rounds, there was no
China’s women e-sports players defy sexism for love of game
for women players to progress.
Liu said a lower-tier club rejected her for a rookie training programme -- despite her clear over-qualification -- seemingly because she was a woman.
“They asked me why I only had experience in women’s tournaments.”
That reluctance by elite and more established clubs to train women has led many to start clubs of their own.
It was like “wanting to punch but finding no target”, player Wang Fei said.
“E-sports was basically just for men,” said KA coach Chen Bo, adding that official tournaments for women only began to emerge in the past few years.
Although the times are slowly changing, women players still see fewer opportunities and receive less recognition than their male counterparts.
The prize pool for 2024’s Honor of Kings Women’s Open in December amounted to $140,000.
By comparison, last year’s inaugural King Pro League Grand Finals, the most prestigious championship for the same e-sports title, handed out $9.6 million between 12 male teams. Passion over money
Liu says most women players are still “generating electricity for love” -- meaning they play for passion rather than financial gain.
And with so few examples of prominent players, those who do seek a career in e-sports find it much harder to convince their families that what they do is worthwhile. AFP refused to lie down and broke back to level at 5-5.
LOS ANGELES— J.J. Spaun fired a five-under par 65 to grab a onestroke lead after Saturday’s third round of the US PGA Sony Open in Hawaii after fellow American Patrick Fishburn faded late. Spaun grinded out birdies on 16 and 18 after bogeys at the 15th and 17th holes to finish 54 holes on 13-under 197 at Honolulu’s windy Waialae Country Club.
“It was a pretty solid round overall,” Spaun said. “Just got off to a pretty solid start. Made a few pars on the first couple holes and then a nice birdie on three. Just took what it gave me and took the opportunities when they came and capitalized on it.”
Germany’s Stephan Jaeger fired a PGA career-low 62 with nine birdies and a bogey to share second on 198 with Americans Eric Cole and Fishburn, who shot 68 after sharing a 36-hole lead with countryman Denny McCarthy.
“I got off to a nice start. The back nine was completely different. It was brutal,” Fishburn said. “I had a lot of downgrain, downwind putts that you couldn’t really get aggressive with.
“It was a little bit tricky but I hung in there the best that I could. I wish I would have made those last two (par) putts but it was an OK day. I’m glad it’s four rounds so I get another shot at it tomorrow.”
Spaun, who won his only PGA title at the 2022 Texas Open, is from Los Angeles and has been watching news reports intently about the devastating wildfires in that area.
“It’s pretty tragic,” Spaun said. “I don’t have any family or friends in that region that have been affected but I know a lot of people that know people that were affected, and it’s devastating. It’s sad to see.” Spaun sank a birdie putt from just outside 17 feet at the 16th to match Fishburn for the lead at 13-under.
Fishburn sank a birdie putt from just inside six feet at 14 to reclaim the sole lead and when Spaun missed the green and made bogey after missing a 10-foot par putt at the par-3 17th, Fishburn had a two-stroke lead. But Fishburn missed the 15th green on his approach and made bogey while Spaun chipped inside five feet at 18 and sank his birdie putt to again share the lead at 13-under.
Fishburn found his first greenside bunker of the week at 17 then pitched to six feet only to miss his par putt, leaving Spaun alone on top. AFP
Folayang’s 4th duel with Aoki added to ONE 172
TOKYO—ONE Championship, the world’s largest martial arts organization, in partnership with U-NEXT, one of Japan’s leading OTT streaming platforms, today announced a highly anticipated showdown between former ONE Lightweight MMA World Champions Shinya Aoki and Eduard Folayang scheduled for ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang. Aoki owns a 2-1 series advantage over Folayang, as the two lightweight legends are set to rekindle their storied rivalry in an unprecedented fourth bout. ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang will be broadcast live from Saitama Super Arena on Sunday, March 23. Tickets are available for international purchase on January 11 at 12:00 p.m. JST at https://bit.ly/ONE172_global. Fans can sign up for the latest event updates at visit.onefc.com/one172.
tennis tournament in Melbourne. AFP
Denice Zamboanga with her team
A female gamer competes during a women’s e-sport event in Beijing. For women e-sports players in China, mastering the game is only the first hurdle to carving
MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
PH women’s futsal squad lives up to expectations
By Peter Atencio
THE newly revamped Philippine squad lived up to initial expectations as the Filipinas and the Australian side got off to a great start in their AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup China 2025 Qualifiers campaigns on Saturday evening at the Yunusobod Sport Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
The Filipinas, a newcomer in the sport and led by three FIFA World Cup football veterans, pulled off an impressive 4-1 beating of Kuwait in Group C to celebrate the coaching debut of Spanish mentor Rafa Merino Rodriguez.
“Not to put pressure or any more weight on the girls and the coaching staff, (but) we expect to win that group, we expect to qualify for the AFC Championship in China,” said Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez before the squad left for Tashkent.
Meanwhile, Australia pulled off a 6-1 win, blasting Turkmenistan, after getting past the initial efforts of Turkmenistani goalkeeper Malika Eminova to stop them from scoring.
Kuwait’s plan to stay defensive in the early stages of the contest did not hold the Philippines’ relentless pressure.
Goakeeper Aishah Alsabri managed to reject Sara Castaneda’s shot off a corner, but Katrina Guillou managed to strike the first marker.
In the 22nd minute, Isabella Flanigan caught Kuwait flatfooted when she sprinted down the left of Alsabri at the arc for a second goal.
The Filipinas tripled the score off a counter-attacking move from Sheen Nicole Borres, who recovered a loose ball and then sent a pass to Dionesa Tolentin, who then volleyed past Alsabri from just above the arc in the 26th minute.
Kuwait then scored its lone goal in the 35th minute, courtesy of Shrouq Mohammad, who took in a neat pass to score past Samanta Hughes.
The Philippines went on to claim their fourth goal through Guillou in the 38th minute.
Turkmenistan will be the Philippines next opponent on Wednesday while Australia will meet Kuwait on Monday.
PSA to honor cagers Fajardo, Quiambao, volleybelle Morado
THREE individuals who excelled in their respective fields in the year just passed will be given with distinction in the San Miguel CorporationPhilippine Sportswriters Association (SMC-PSA) Awards Night at the Manila Hotel two weeks from now.
PBA star June Mar Fajardo, collegiate prodigy Kevin Quiambao, and volleyball celebrity Jia Morado are going to be the recipients of a special award from the country’s sports writ-
ing fraternity during its Jan. 27 gala night. The 6’10” Fajardo and the 23-year-
old Quiambao are hailed as the 2024 Mr. Basketball (pro and amateur), while the 5’7” Morado, one of the
country’s top setters, will be bestowed the title Ms. Volleyball.
The three are part of the distin-
Elite field braces for battle of wits, resilience at TCC
AN elite lineup of former champions, seasoned contenders and rising stars is gearing up for a four-day clash of talent and resilience at the P6 million The Country Club Invitational on Jan. 28-Feb. 1 at the TCC course in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. With a massive P2 million awaiting the winner, the event promises to push competitors to their physical and mental limits on one of the most unforgiving courses in the country.
Dubbed the ultimate “survival of the fittest,” The Country Club course is noted for its grueling challenges. From its daunting length to its ever-shifting winds and demanding greens, every element conspires to test a golfer’s full arsenal of skills. For the men on the tour, the TCC demands more than just talent and experience – it’s a grueling test that challenges every aspect of a player’s game. It’s often said that competing here requires noth-
ing less than one’s absolute best just to have a shot at the championship. Success at the TCC hinges on patience, a touch of luck and razor-sharp judgmet. Few understand this better than
Tony Lascuña, a five-time Order of Merit winner. After a two-decade-long pursuit to reclaim the tournament’s flagship title, he finally prevailed last year in a dramatic and unforgettable fashion.
3-city 7-Eleven Run 2025 lures
WITH a big turnout expected, organizers expect that new faces will emerge when the 7-Eleven Run 2025 takes off at close to midnight on February 2, with simultaneous footraces held in the cities of Muntinlupa, Cebu and Davao.
Top runners like Southeast Asian Games veterans Arlan Arbois and Christine Hallasgo are expected to be back and hold their ground against young and aspiring runners during the late evening road races
The races will have nine categories, including the 42km, 32km and 21km, which will have the top three finishers in the men’s and women’s categories competing in an international race in Southeast Asia. “If you look at the history of our races, we were able to produce potential gold medallists and represent the country internationally,” said organizer Jose C. Ang Jr., 7-Eleven Philippines’ Managing Director for eWallet and eCommerce Head of General Merchandise Division, during Friday’s launch in San Juan.
The run has drawn 50,000 participants in the midnight-to-dawn race, with 30,000 racing in
Overcoming a heartbreaking Match Play loss to Miguel Tabuena, he clinched the championship in stroke play, demonstrating the consistency and composure required to prevail on TCC’s punishing layout.
Past editions of the TCC Invitational have been anything but predictable. In 2019, PGA Tour rising star Tom Kim edged Keanu Jahns with a 290 total, while Micah Shin denied Tabuena in 2018. Even more brutal was Tabuena’s 2017 victory, where a 13-over 301 secured the title in treacherous conditions.
Adding to the drama is the course itself. Measuring 7,256 yards, TCC boasts of water hazards, narrow fairways and one of Asia’s most challenging finishing holes – the water-laced No. 18. The winds, which can shift unpredictably, further complicate shot selection and execution.
50,000 participants
the Muntinlupa stage. Action takes place at the Filinvest-Alabang grounds, with 13,000 taking part when it is held at the City de Mare in the South Road of Cebu City. There will be 7,000 runners at the SM City in Davao City.
Last year, Ric Organisa and his elder sister Hallasgo dominated the Cagayan de Oro leg, as they turned in the fastest times in the men’s and women’s 21-kilometer run.
Podium finishes are also up for grabs in the 3K, 5K, 7K, 10K, 16K categories, while new events like the 711-m run for kids and the 3-km buddy run will be introduced.
Last year, Florendo Lapiz emerged as the overall winner of the men’s 42-km run after finishing the Manila leg with a better time from Cagayan de Oro top bets Ramil Neri and James Cruz, who took second and third.
Maricar Camacho dominated the women’s 42km run when she claimed the top honors in the Manila leg. Peter Atencio
guished honor roll to be cited by the oldest media organization in the country in its traditional awards gathering co-presented by ArenaPlus, Cignal, and MediaQuest.
Gymnast idol Carlos Yulo leads the pack of awardees as he’ll be conferred with the 2024 Athlete of the Year honor for his remarkable feat of winning the country’s first ever Olympic double gold during the Paris Games.
The night of nostalgia and celebration won’t be possible without the backing of the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, PLDT/Smart, Senator Bong Go, and Januarius Holdings, with support from the PBA, PVL, 1-Pacman Party List, AcroCity, Rain or Shine, and Akari.
Fajardo had been the recipient several times of the Mr. Basketball honor in the past, while Quiambao and Morado-De Guzman are receiving the award for the first time.
The 35-year-old Fajardo reset his own record last year when he won the PBA Most Valuable Player award for the eighth time, while leading San Miguel to back-to-back Finals stint including winning the Commissioner’s Cup crown. He was also a part of the Gilas Pilipinas team that reached the semifinals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia.
JuneMar Fajardo Kevin Quiambao
Jia Morado
The Country Club hole no. 17
7-Eleven Philippines executives,
by Jose C. Ang Jr. (left), the
Veteran Katrina Guillou delivers two goals for the Philip pine women’s futsal team.
BSP to accept 4 new digital banks in 2025
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Bangko Sentral
ng Pilipinas (BSP) is reviewing applications from prospective digital banks seeking to operate in the Philippines starting this year.
“We’re going to allow four more digital banks in the near future. So, we expect to have 10 digital banks. We have seen a lot of applications from banks with very successful business models abroad,” BSP Governor Eli Remolona, Jr. said in a speech at a Rotary Club membership meeting last week.
“We’re just checking on their data. And then very soon we will allow a few more digital banks,” he said.
The BSP allowed more digital banks to operate in the country to promote lending digitally.
It granted digital banking licenses to Maya Bank, Overseas Filipino Bank Inc., Tonik Digital Bank Inc., UNObank Inc., UnionDigital Bank and GoTyme Bank Corp.
It lifted the moratorium on new digital banking licenses starting Jan. 1, 2025.
“In terms of payments, we are looking to payments as a pathway towards financial inclusion. Digital payments, we see as allowing more people to have –not necessarily a bank account, but an e-wallet account, which then makes it easier for them to open a bank account eventually,”
Remolona said. “And then with digital banks relying on data that is new and innovative, we are hoping that they will be able to lend to more people without requiring the usual amount of collateral that banks have so far relied on. So that’s our strategy. It’s part of our strategy for financial inclusion,” he said.
Six
Number
of digital banks in PH
Four
Digital bank licenses up for grabs
P1 billion
Minimum capital of digital banks
POWER PROFILE
Meet Mr. Turnaround: Lorenzo Tan
By Jimmy L. Montejo
IN THE Philippine banking industry, Lorenzo Villanueva Tan is called “Mr. Turnaround” for good reasons.
The 63-year-old banker has a seemingly endless litany of accomplishments, starting in 1998 when he became the youngest president of a universal bank in the country at age 37.
Presently, Tan sits as president and chief executive of the Yuchengo-led House of Investments Inc. (HII). He is the concurrent vice chairman of the Pan Malayan Management and Investment Corp., the controlling company of HII and served as president and chief executive of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC).
He is a son of Philippine Constitutional Association governor Rufino Tan and brother of BDO Unibank Inc. president Nestor V. Tan. His world, indeed, revolves around the banking and investment sectors.
There were several shining moments in his career, and one of them came in 2011 when he sold a mansion at the posh Forbes Park in Makati City to boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for a whopping P388 million.
The record-breaking deal sent prices of real estate at the elite subdivision skyrocketing.
Tan’s curriculum vitae will show that he has expansive experience in banking here and abroad. He held various positions in Citibank N.A. and Citibank Singapore from 1987 to 1995 where he sat as director of Regional Financial Advisory of Citibank Singapore (1993 to 1995), vice president of Global Finance of Citibank Los Angeles, USA (1991 to 1993) and assistant vice president of Citicorp Real Estate of Citibank, New York (1987 to 1991).
Tan also served as director of four different corporations in five industries.
Tan was also former president and chief operating officer of United Coconut Planters Bank and vice chairman and director of the UCPB Savings Bank and the UCPB Rural Bank.
He also held executive positions in Minola Corp., HLG Capital Philippines and HLG Assets Management (Phils.) Inc., state-run National Food Authority, Philippine International Trading Corp., Island Country Telecommunications Inc., the Orion Land Inc., Tutuban Properties Inc., the Dao Heng Bank, the Philippine International Trading Corp., Island Country Telecommunications Inc., Orion Land Inc., Tutuban Properties Inc., Dao Heng Bank, Pepsi Cola Products Phils. Inc., First Lepanto Taisho Insurance and the Bradstock Aurora Insurance Brokers.
Tan was president and CEO of RCBC for nine years, from 2007 to 2016 during which the company attained unprecedented net income growths.
During his watch at RCBC, the bank ran into financial trouble of epic proportions. In February 2016, RCBC was implicated in the so-called Bangladesh Bank heist when one of its branches was used as a depository of $81 million believed part of $951 million stolen from the
House of Investments president Lorenzo Tan
market seen moving sideways with upward bias
By Jenniffer B. Austria
The
As a result, analysts are now expecting two rate cuts instead of the earlier expectations of four rate cuts in 2025.
“Emerging market equities just recently entered correction territory as a result of this slower policy easing, disadvantageous currency spreads, and US yields that have rapidly risen since late 2024,” 2TradeAsia.com said.
Investors are also expected to watch out for new catalysts including the US December 2024 inflation data which is expected to give clues on the Fed’s policy outlook.
“The movement of the US’ long term treasury yields may also affect the local market. A decline in the yields is expected to help in lifting the bourse while a rise may weigh on it,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said.
AirAsia PH rolls out 3rd seat sale to select routes
By Darwin G. Amojelar
AIRASIA Philippines rolled out its third consecutive seat sale in January 2025, offering widest network low fares starting at P188 to selected destinations.
The limited-time seat sale, offering 523,830 seats, runs from Jan. 13 to 19, 2025, for travel between Feb. 3 to Nov. 30, 2025, with focus routes including Kalibo, Cebu, Iloilo, Seoul and Bangkok.
AirAsia Philippines marks its third week of success following the launch of the AirAsia Fiesta Promo and the “25 percent Off on All Seats, All Flights” promotion, further cementing its position as a leader in affordable and accessible air travel.
AirAsia Philippines said it is also gearing up for something spectacular this January with the Ati-Atihan Festival 2025 approaching.
As the official airline partner, AirAsia said it is fully prepared to provide seamless travel to Kalibo, Aklan, enabling travelers to experience the country’s “Mother of All Festivals” firsthand.
AirAsia offers direct flights from Manila to Kalibo three times daily.
“As the leading airline in Kalibo, we remain committed to our mission of enhancing accessibility and stimulating travel to our key destinations by supporting the rich cultural heritage of the communities we serve,” AIrAsia Philippines chief executive Rick Isla said.
By Othel V. Campos
STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) landed its first long-term residential lease with Metro Pacific Investment Corp. (MPIC).
MPIC director Victorico Vargas signed the lease on behalf of the company, signaling the start of the redevelopment of Camp John Hay as a premier investment and tourism destination.
BCDA said the partnership would help reinforce investor confidence to push the company’s vision and commitment to transforming John Hay.
D&L Industries Inc. Inc. is more optimistic about its earnings prospects this year amid improving macroeconomic conditions.
The company is the country’s top specialty food ingredients and oleochemicals producer.
“BCDA remains fully committed to ensuring that your conditions will improve even more in the years ahead. Our goal is not only to grow together but to provide a stable and thriving environment for all our partners,” said BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang. Vargas signed a 25-year lease agreement for two Forest Cabin units following the Supreme Court’s ruling that allowed BCDA to recover the Camp John Hay property.
Spanning 247 hectares, the Camp John Hay Forest Cabin complex features 56 premium residential units, each averaging 270 square meters, blending modern living with Baguio’s natural beauty and eco-tourism charm.
Bingcang hinted at more agreements of this kind soon.
The units were previously leased through CJH Development Corp. (CJH DevCo).
He urged former CJH DevCo leaseholders to engage with BCDA for a seamless transition, following the Supreme Court’s Dec. 12, 2024 decision to uphold an arbitral ruling ordering CJH DevCo to vacate the property.
D&L president and chief executive Alvin Lao said in a recent interview with reporters the optimism comes from easing inflation, lower interest rates, higher spending due to the mid-term elections and the expected recovery of the tourism and hospitality sectors.
“These are tailwinds for the economy and the normal trend in our company. As long as the economy is doing well, then we are a beneficiary,” he said.
Lao also noted that another percentage point increase in the biodiesel blend in October would boost earnings.
Lao said the Philippine economy and D&L’s profitability faced challenges over the last two years due to high inflation, which hurt consumers and affected their spending.
“If you look at how prices went up so much, especially during COVID, everything was very expensive. For consumers, their pockets really got hurt. Rice prices really went up in the last two years,” he said.
Lao said, however, that rice prices peaked a few months ago and began coming down, which is a positive sign on inflation movement.
“So, looking forward, it’s making us more optimistic this year with inflation much lower. There’s more breathing room now for consumers so, hopefully, it means more money to spend and hopefully it also means a better economy,” Lao said.
B. Austria
Jenniffer
EastWest Bank, J. Rotbart team up for PH investment offerings
EASTWEST Priority is redefining wealth management with its newly forged partnership with J. Rotbart & Co., a globally recognized leader in alternative investments for high-networth individuals.
The strategic collaboration opens doors for EastWest Priority clients to access innovative and exclusive solutions that diversify and strengthen their financial portfolios, providing them with a competitive edge in wealth management. Known for its expertise in tangible
assets and bespoke investment strategies, J. Rotbart & Co. brings decades of experience in safeguarding and growing wealth through personalized approaches. Their meticulous strategies ensure stability and growth, complementing EastWest Priority’s mission to deliver world-class financial solutions to its clients.
The partnership was officially sealed during a signing ceremony on Dec. 2 at EastWest’s office in The Beaufort, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The event highlighted both
organizations’ shared commitment to delivering excellence in wealth management and providing clients with unparalleled access to global investment opportunities.
EastWest Priority clients will gain access to J. Rotbart’s specialized alternative investment offerings, empowering them to align their portfolios with their financial goals, risk appetites and long-term ambitions.
The initiative highlights EastWest Priority’s dedication to delivering innovative, personalized wealth man-
THE tollway unit of San Miguel Corp. (SMC) said its net income rose 13 percent in the first nine months of 2024 on the back of higher vehicle traffic.
SMC Tollways Corp. posted a net income of P7.26 billion from January to September last year, up from P6.43 billon in the same period in 2023. Total revenue amounted to P15.67 billion, a 5-percent increase from P14.97 billion in the same period in 2023. Volumes increased across all vehicular classes in the nine-month period. SMC Skyway Corp. achieved an average daily traffic (ADT) of 275,016, up by 1 percent from 271,074 in September 2023, while SMC Skyway
agement services, guided by its expert relationship managers. These relationship managers serve as trusted advisors, offering timely market insights, analyzing global economic trends and recommending financial products tailored to each client’s unique needs.
“At EastWest Priority, we understand that our clients seek exclusive and diversified investment opportunities,” said Rafael Algarra Jr., senior executive vice president and head of financial markets and wealth management at EastWest.
COSMETICS BOARD. The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines Inc. (CCIP) holds its fourth general membership
meeting at the Revel at the Palace in Taguig City. Elected as CCPI 2025 board of trustees are (from left) Janina Tan, Monina Ferrer, Robinson Uy, Denice Sy, Michael Zotomayor, Linda Yu, Kimberly Sablayan, Jackie Lim, Christine Reyes, Jenny Nunez, Dennies Ladia and election committee members Lessie Galindo, Sherry Sampang and Gladys Conopio.
BUSINESS
Reduced funding to impact tourism targets
By Othel V. Campos
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco warned that the reduced funding for tourism programs and stricter policies on foreign visitors could hinder the Philippines from reaching its visitor arrival targets.
Frasco said the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) branding and promotions budget for 2025 under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) was slashed from proposal in the National Expenditure Program (NEP).
“The most affected change from NEP to GAA is the budget for brand-
affordable for Filipino households while enhancing its market positioning locally and advancing the government’s food security goals.
ing and promotions of the Philippines globally. Under NEP, it was P500 million, but this was cut to P100 million in the GAA,” she said.
Frasco highlighted the drastic reduction in the DOT’s branding budget from P1.2 billion in 2023 to only P200 million in 2024, representing a
—“—
The limited funding reduces the Philippines’ presence in the consciousness of potential travelers globally.
—Tourism
Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco
Chemical maker in Batangas gets metrology training
K-MORE Philippines Inc., a chemical manufacturing company for the printing industry in Batangas, received training on the fundamentals of metrology and basic calibration principles from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-CALABARZON.
The training, held on Nov. 27, 2024 in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, focused on non-automatic weighing instruments, pH meters, and thermohydrometers.
It was designed to enhance the skills of company managers and staff in identifying equipment errors, addressing inaccuracies, and ensuring measurements fall within acceptable ranges. This aims to improve equipment performance and overall operational efficiency.
Julius Regoroso, science research specialist II, and Mylene Lontoc, project technical specialist I, of the DOST-CALABARZON Regional Metrology Laboratory (RML), facilitated the training. They covered metrology and measurement, categories of metrology, metrological traceability, and the application of the International System of Units (SI). Regoroso emphasized the crucial role of accurate measurement in ensuring product quality and optimizing production output. He stressed the importance of regularly verifying equipment, noting that scales can drift over time and may provide inaccurate readings if not properly maintained.
His discussion also touched on the calibration of non-automatic weighing instruments (NAWI), including different types of NAWI, classifications of International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) test weights, and general aspects and steps on calibration.
The firm provided samples of electronic balances and test weights for equipment verification demonstrations. Participants performed calculations to determine whether measured weights fell within acceptable ranges, using formulas and techniques explained by Regoroso.
GREEN LIGHT
“I WAS watching a TV series on a Saturday when my manager called me on WhatsApp,” Dwight, a young single data analyst, recounted an experience when he worked for a communications service provider.
“I paused the TV…I answered the call. My manager did not think that just because it’s work-from-home, it doesn’t mean I have to work 24/7 at home, right?” he asked.
Dwight is a case respondent for my dissertation, “All Work and No Play? Perspective of Single Professionals without Dependent Children on WorkLife Balance in the Contemporary Workplace: A Multiple Case Study”. I discussed how single professionals without children navigate the complexities of balancing their work and personal activities in evolving work environments, such as flexible work arrangements.
While the COVID-19 pandemic compelled firms to allow employees to work remotely, flexibility practices have been prevalent even before the pandemic. David Guest, a professor of occupational psychology and human resource management at King’s Business School, stated in his 2002 study that flexible arrangements allow employees to manage their personal duties, control work time, and avoid traffic jams.
But given the availability of mobile devices, high-speed internet, and flexible work arrangements, there is greater emphasis on rapid customer response. Customers and management now expect the employees to be available 24/7. Because technology has blurred the boundaries between work and personal life, this has created a unique paradox for single professionals.
On one hand, technology can provide work-life flexibility. Erin, who works for a financial services firm, shared that she does her laundry while attending virtual meetings at home. “It’s easy doing the laundry while you’re at work because you just chug everything and then wait for two to three hours,” she shared. Angela, who is employed at a chemical goods company, can check urgent work requests while on holiday. “If I need to check on something, I can easily access the support phone and send the text message and the email,” she revealed.
On the contrary, technology flexibility might evolve into a 24/7 availability need. A common misconception of single professionals without children is that they have more free time than their married counterparts. But that is not always the case. Single professionals also
P1-billion decrease. She said this would challenge the DOT’s efforts to sustain international interest in Philippine destinations.
“The limited funding reduces the Philippines’ presence in the consciousness of potential travelers globally,” she said, adding that the cuts could also impact the “Love the Philippines” campaign and promotions for local destinations.
Despite a 9.15-percent increase in arrivals from 2023, the Philippines welcomed 5.95 million international visitors in 2024—short of the DOT’s 7.7 million target under the National
Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028.
Frasco identified the suspension of electronic visas (e-visas) for Chinese travelers as a significant hurdle.
“We projected over 2 million Chinese tourists in 2024, but only a little over 300,000 arrived,” she said, noting the stark contrast to ASEAN neighbors offering visa-free or visaon-arrival policies for Chinese visitors.
Chinese arrivals dropped sharply from 1.7 million in 2019 to 312,222 in 2024.
DOF adheres to Mandanas ruling on LGU tax shares
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Finance
(DOF) reiterated its commitment to transparency and strict adherence to the Supreme Court (SC) ruling in determining the National Tax Allotment (NTA) shares for local government units (LGUs).
“We assure our LGUs that we are strictly adhering to transparency and accountability, especially with the principles set by the Supreme Court, in implementing the MandanasGarcia ruling,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said.
“Nothing is shortchanged. We are very much welcome and open to having continued dialogues with our LGUs to help them strengthen their fiscal capacities and optimize resource utilization to deliver more and better services to Filipinos,” he said.
The 2019 Mandanas-Garcia ruling of the Supreme Court (SC), which took effect in 2022, increased the NTA shares of LGUs to 40 percent of all national taxes beyond those collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). The adjustment was intended to enhance the fiscal autonomy of LGUs by granting them a more substantial share of the national tax base.
The SC ordered the Secretary of the DOF, the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Commissioners of the BIR and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), and the National Treasury, to include all national tax collections in the computation of the NTA base, “except those accruing to special purpose funds and special allotments for the utilization and development of the national wealth.”
Single and ready to…respond to emails 24/7?
need time to pursue their interests while tending to the needs of their parents, elderly relatives, friends, and even pets.
Take the case of Toby who works for a bank. One time, Toby brought his laptop to a wedding, expecting to receive a business call during a system migration. “Imagine, you’re wearing a Barong Tagalog, and you’re connected to the VPN (virtual private network)!” he chuckled. Michael works for a school and enjoys reading in his spare time. But he picks up his phone whenever his supervisor contacts him. “When my boss calls, I have to stop whatever personal work I’m doing and attend to it,” he said. Jim, who works for a global consulting firm, disclosed that one of his office pet peeves is receiving job-related messages from his social media account. He explained, “I avoid that. I don’t want someone from work to contact me through social media, informing me about my work.”
Given the pros and cons, is technology then a boon or a bane for work-life balance? The key to resolving this paradox lies in how we utilize technology.
Stan Parker, one of the founders of the UK’s Leisure Studies Association, claimed in his 1998 study that technology should not be blamed for the blurred lines between work and personal activities. Instead, we should examine how we integrate technology into our current work systems and home habits.
For instance, Erin sets her work boundaries by muting work-related apps. “So from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., that’s the only time that I will get notifications.” Meanwhile, Dwight consciously does not respond to work emails on weekends. He narrated, “You know, you can long hold on an iPhone to preview the message, right? Okay, you messaged me on a weekend, I’ll just respond to it on a Monday.”
Some organizations establish clear work-life boundaries. Meredith, who works for a BPO company, is not obligated to work while on vacation. “They really want us to take a break...I’m not required to attend the call, to answer emails,” she said. Likewise, Dwight does not need to respond to emails outside his work schedule. “You’re only required to answer those when you get back,” he revealed. Individuals and
Single professionals also need time to pursue their interests while tending to the needs of their parents, elderly relatives, friends, and even pets.
organizations must recognize the need to establish work-life boundaries to attain a sustainable work-life balance for all types of employees. While technology has enabled us flexible work arrangements, we should not allow its constant availability to overwhelm us.
Just because we are reachable does not mean we are productive. After all, “full-time” job and “allthe-time” job are not the same thing.
Jelica R. Enriquez recently earned her Doctor of Business Administration degree from De La Salle University (DLSU) and is an Assistant Professor at the School of Management and Information Technology at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. She can be reached at jelica.enriquez@gmail.com.
LEGAL NOTICE
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
in the Certificate of Marriage OZAN GAKMAK, OFFICE OF THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL REPRESENTED BY THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS WHO MAY BE AFFECTED, Respondents.
OZAN GAKMAK, OFFICE OF THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL REPRESENTED BY THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS WHO MAY BE AFFECTED, Respondents. x -------------------------------------------------------x
x -------------------------------------------------------x
ORDER
This is a verified Petition for Cancellation of Entries in the Certificate of Marriage filed by the Petitioner on September 20. 2024, through counsel. The Petition alleges the following: that the Petitioner is of legal age, single, Filipino citizen and a resident of Ambasing, Sagada, Mt. Province; that the Petitioner was a Part-Time Faculty at Saint Louis University from August 6,2018 up to December 31, 2018 and now a Public-School teacher at the Pines City National High School; that the Petitioner has never been in any country abroad; that the Petitioner has never appeared before any solemnizing officer for purposes of marriage; that the Petitioner affirms that she does not know Ozan Gakmak of Turkey; that the Petitioner is preparing to marry her boyfriend, thus, she obtained a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) from the Philippine Statistics Authority on August 15, 2023 however, the certificate indicates that she was previously married to Ozan Gakmak on December 20, 2018 in Turkey. WHEREFORE, finding the Petition to be sufficient in form and in substance, let this Petition be set for hearing before this Court located at Room 604, Sixth Floor, Hall of Justice - Annex, Diliman, Quezon City on March 19, 2025 at 10:00 o ‘clock in the morning at which place and on which time, all interested persons must appear and file their opposition/s to the Petition. Let copies of this Order be published at the expense of the Petitioner, pursuant to Section 4 of Rule 108 of the Rules of Court, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines, and be posted at the main entrance of Quezon City Hall and Bulletin Board of the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City. Further, let copies of this Order, together with the Petition and its annexes be sent by registered mail to the Office of the Solicitor General, Office of the City Prosecutor of Quezon City, Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Quezon City and Philippine Statistics Authority, Quezon City. SO ORDERED. Quezon City, Philippines, September 30,2024. (Sgd.) CARLO D. VILLARAMA Presiding Judge CC: Atty. Jansen Taruc Nacar Counsel for Petitioner MAGALGALIT and PARTNERS LAW OFFICE G/F Insular Life Bldg., Abanao Ext. cor. Legarda Rd. 2600 Baguio City jtnacar@up.edu.ph jansen.t.nacar@gmail.com Junah Clarisse Bumal-O Magalgalit Petitioner c/o MAGALGALIT and PARTNERS LAW OFFICE G/F Insular Ufe Bldg., Abanao Ext. cor. Legarda Rd. 2600 Baguio City Ozan Gakmak Private Respondent (Address unknown) Office of the Civil Registrar General-Philippine Statistics Authority PSA Complex, East Avenue, Diliman. Quezon City Office of the City Prosecutor DOJ Building, QC Hall Compound, Quezon City Office of the Solicitor General 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village. Makati City (MStandard - Jan. 13, 20 & 27, 2025) Manila Standard TODAY
Notice is hereby given to the public that an Extrajudicial Settlement has been executed by the heirs of the late Spouses Cornelio and Dolores Hermoso, namely: Maria Concepcion H. Garcia, Maria Cristina Aguas Ng, Bella G. Hermoso, Margarita G. Hermoso, Carlo G. Hermoso, Francis G. Hermoso, Eliza H. Bandian, Maria Teresa N. Hermoso, Terence Jan N. Hermoso, Marie Antoniette H. Palma, Louie Antoine N. Hermoso, Andrea Nicole N. Hermoso, Rion Allistair N. Hermoso, Katherine Louise H. Atienza, Pedro N. Hermoso II, Enrico Pepito D. Hermoso, Francis Pepito C. Hermoso, all of legal age, over real properties, per deed executed on 29 December 2024 before Notary Public Atty.
(MS-JAN. 13/20/27, 2025) LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given to the public that an Extrajudicial Settlement has been executed by the heirs of the late Spouses Cornelio and Dolores Hermoso, namely: Maria Concepcion H. Garcia, Maria Cristina Aguas Ng, Bella G. Hermoso, Margarita G. Hermoso, Carlo G. Hermoso, Francis G. Hermoso, Eliza H. Bandian, Maria Teresa N. Hermoso, Terence Jan N. Hermoso, Marie Antoniette H. Palma, Louie Antoine N. Hermoso, Andrea Nicole N. Hermoso, Rion Allistair N. Hermoso, Katherine Louise H. Atienza, Pedro N. Hermoso II, Enrico Pepito D. Hermoso, Francis Pepito C. Hermoso, all of legal age, over real properties, per deed executed on 29 December 2024 before Notary Public Atty. Krista Mae A. Gandionco,
(MS-JAN. 13/20/27, 2025)
ORDER This is a verified Petition for Cancellation of Entries in the Certificate of Marriage filed by the Petitioner on September 20. 2024, through counsel. The Petition alleges the following: that the Petitioner is of legal age, single, Filipino citizen and a resident of Ambasing, Sagada, Mt. Province; that the Petitioner was a Part-Time Faculty at Saint Louis University from August 6,2018 up to December 31, 2018 and now a Public-School teacher at the Pines City National High School; that the Petitioner has never been in any country abroad; that the Petitioner has never appeared before any solemnizing officer for purposes of marriage; that the Petitioner affirms that she does not know Ozan Gakmak of Turkey; that the Petitioner is preparing to marry her boyfriend, thus, she obtained a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) from the Philippine Statistics Authority on August 15, 2023 however, the certificate indicates that she was previously married to Ozan Gakmak on December 20, 2018 in Turkey. WHEREFORE, finding the Petition to be sufficient in form and in substance, let this Petition be set for hearing before this Court located at Room 604, Sixth Floor, Hall of Justice - Annex, Diliman, Quezon City on March 19, 2025 at 10:00 o ‘clock in the morning at which place and on which time, all interested persons must appear and file their opposition/s to the Petition. Let copies of this Order be published at the expense of the Petitioner, pursuant to Section 4 of Rule 108 of the Rules of Court, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines, and be posted at the main entrance of Quezon City Hall and Bulletin Board of the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Quezon City. Further, let copies of this Order, together with the Petition and its annexes be sent by registered mail to the Office of the Solicitor General, Office of the City Prosecutor of Quezon City, Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Quezon City and Philippine Statistics Authority, Quezon City. SO ORDERED. Quezon City, Philippines, September 30,2024. (Sgd.) CARLO D. VILLARAMA Presiding Judge CC: Atty. Jansen Taruc Nacar Counsel for Petitioner MAGALGALIT and PARTNERS LAW OFFICE G/F Insular Life Bldg., Abanao Ext. cor. Legarda Rd. 2600 Baguio City jtnacar@up.edu.ph jansen.t.nacar@gmail.com Junah Clarisse Bumal-O Magalgalit Petitioner c/o MAGALGALIT and PARTNERS LAW OFFICE G/F Insular Ufe Bldg., Abanao Ext. cor. Legarda Rd. 2600 Baguio City Ozan Gakmak Private Respondent (Address unknown) Office of the Civil Registrar General-Philippine Statistics Authority PSA Complex, East Avenue, Diliman. Quezon City Office of the City Prosecutor DOJ Building, QC Hall Compound, Quezon City Office of the Solicitor General 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village. Makati City (MStandard - Jan. 13, 20 & 27, 2025)
Jelica R. Enriquez
IN BRIEF
ERC: Proposal to assign more commissioners not necessary
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) expressed misgivings over proposals to increase the number of commissioners to nine from five, saying this would make the agency “too bureaucratic.”
The proposal stemmed the deliberations at the House of Representatives on the amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001.
“We recognize the good intentions behind the proposal to increase the number of membership in the Commission from the current five to nine,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said.
“We think, however, that this may
PDIC remits over P107b to National Treasury
By Darwin G. Amojelar
STATE-RUN Philippine Deposit Insur-
ance Corp. (PDIC) said over the weekend its Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) remains adequate despite the remittance of P107.23 billion to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) in compliance with the 2024 General Appropriations Act.
“The Deposit Insurance Fund of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. is more than adequate to cover risks in the banking system,” PDIC president Roberto Tan said in a statement.
PDIC also said it would announce a higher deposit insurance coverage for deposits in banks in 2025. “We assure the public that the PDIC is committed to the protection of the depositors and promotion of financial stability,” it said.
PDIC said the remittance supports government-wide efforts to boost the economy by funding critical infrastructure and social programs.
“The DIF continues to be maintained within the target level set by its board of directors based on international best practices,” he said.
The remittance contributed to funding major infrastructure and social programs such as the maintenance, repair and rehabilitation of major infrastructure facilities; the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances/Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations; the Philippine Food Stamp Program; and various projects to advance the government’s disaster-related infrastructure projects; and rural electrification efforts through the Financial Subsidy for the Purchase of Photovoltaic Mainstreaming (Solar Home System).
not be necessary once we are permitted to reorganize, create new offices and positions, increase personnel and enabled to institutionalize trainings and capacity building. These changes will facilitate timely evaluation of cases without making the agency too top-heavy and too bureaucratic,” Dimalanta said.
Dimalanta said that under the proposal to increase the commission members from five to nine members,
there would be regional commissions with three commissioners per grid.
“Three commissioners for Luzon, three for Visayas and three for Mindanao. For certain items, we sit en banc, the nine members,” she said.
Dimalanta said, however, the ERC welcomes the final draft that came out in Congress
“It was a really a collaboration between the legislators and the various stakeholders, and it is now with the Committee on Appropriation with Congress,” she said.
She said the ERC was able to include in the draft the items on the limited fiscal autonomy of the ERC.
“So we can retain some of our collections. It will have specific purpose, for example, a certain percentage
should go to training, certain percentage go to salary,” she said.
Meanwhile, the ERC invited the public to provide feedback on the draft resolution amending ERC Resolution No. 6, Series of 2019 or the resolution adopting the amendments to the rules enabling the netmetering program for renewable energy.
The ERC, in its draft resolution, introduces significant amendments to the net-metering rules to enhance transparency, accountability and ease of implementation.
One key amendment that aligns with the banking of net-metering credits addresses issues arising from the transfer of such credits in cases of property ownership changes.
DA vows to expand Rice-for-All program, open more KADIWA kiosks
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA)
vowed to make rice more affordable and accessible through the expansion of the Rice-for-All program, the opening of additional KADIWA ng Pangulo kiosks in public markets and train stations and partnerships with local government units (LGUs).
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said among the initiatives include
distributing rice at fair prices, such as the P29-per-kilo program for vulnerable sectors with a 10-kilogram (kg) monthly limit.
“We are ensuring that rice reaches every Filipino household at fair and affordable prices, starting with key markets in Metro Manila and, eventually, other regions,” he said.
Under the Rice-for-All program, consumers can purchase rice at P45 per kg for 5-percent broken grains,
GSIS disburses record P289b in multi-purpose loans
THE Government Service Insurance System’s flagship loan initiative reached new heights in 2024, with its multi-purpose loan (MPL) programs providing crucial financial support to more than 1.2 million government employees nationwide. Since its launch in September 2023, the GSIS MPL Flex program has disbursed P282 billion to 1,049,246 members, with a remarkable 35.5-percent increase from P208.17 billion in its first year of implementation. An additional P7.2 billion was extended to 197,675 members under MPL Lite. GSIS said that in 16 months, MPL
Flex has become a cornerstone of its financial assistance initiatives, offering government employees loans of up to 14 times their monthly base pay, capped at P5 million, with a 6-percent annual interest rate and repayment terms extending to 15 years.
“The rapid growth of MPL Flex in less than two years demonstrates both the program’s effectiveness and the significant demand for flexible financial solutions among our members,” said GSIS president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso.
The program’s impact extends beyond individual borrowers to benefit entire communities. Roland Da-
leon Satin, a master teacher at Mayo Crossing Elementary School in Lucena City, used his MPL Flex loan to establish a computer shop that serves local remote workers. When the shift to blended learning began, Satin reduced his rates to help students continue their education.
“I saw an opportunity to not only create additional income for my family but also support our community’s needs,” Satin said.
“By offering affordable computer access and printing services to students, we are helping them pursue their education while building a sustainable business.”
P40 per kg. for 25-percent broken and P36 per kg. for 100-percent broken. Rice accounts for about 10 percent of the average Filipino household budget, rising to 20 percent among lower-income households.
To stabilize prices, the DA, in collaboration with the Metro Manila Development Council, engaged LGUs across NCR to sell National Food Authority (NFA) rice at P38 per kg.
1-G,
This will not only offer an affordable option but also help decongest NFA warehouses ahead of the palay harvest season, the DA said. It said that starting Jan. 20, 2025, it would enforce a maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) of P58 per kg. for premium imported rice. Initially applied in Metro Manila, the MSRP will be reviewed monthly to reflect global trends, potentially lowering prices further by February.
THE Department of Energy expects around 6,841 megawatts of new power supply and 330 MW of battery energy storage system to come online across the three grids this year.
DOE data showed that bulk of the new capacity are located in Luzon at 5,754 MW, followed by Visayas at 855 MW and Mindanao at 232 MW.
It said that in the Luzon grid, around 3,060 MW would come from solar power plants, followed by natural gas at 1,320 MW, wind at 759 MW, coal at 500 MW, geothermal at 68 MW, hydro at 35 MW, oil plants at 11 MW and biomass at 1 MW. The bulk of the additional Visayas and Mindanao capacity will come from solar at 742 MW and 128 MW, respectively. Data also showed that Excellent Energy Resources Inc.’s 1,320-MW natural gas plant in Batangas is the
BANKERS NIGHT. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona Jr. (third from left) leads the BSP in welcoming guests from the banking community, diplomatic corps, representatives from the government and private sectors and members of the media during the annual reception for the banking community at Fort San Antonio Abad in the
complex in Manila on Jan. 10, 2025. Remolona urged the banking community to continue
that best suit their needs.
Roland Daleon Satin, a master teacher from Mayo Crossing Elementary School in Lucena City, works at his computer shop established through a Government Service Insurance System’s Multi-Purpose Flex loan to support the local community and students in blended learning.
REAL ESTATE
Infrastructure fuels PH hospitality growth
THE Philippine hospitality industry is expected to experience a significant growth in 2025, fueled by the country’s rapid infrastructure development.
Key investments in airports, new accommodations and transportation are seen improving accessibility, attracting more visitors and boosting the tourism sector.
Growth driver
The infrastructure expansion is poised to enhance the country’s appeal as a travel destination. Planned upgrades at major airports, including Manila and Bohol-Panglao international airports, are expected to improve air travel efficiency. New air routes to secondary cities will create more opportunities for domestic and international tourists to explore lesser-known destinations.
Accommodation supply
According to Leechiu Property Consultants, the Philippines is set to
add 7,560 new hotel rooms in 2025, reflecting a 2-percent increase in overall supply.
The new rooms will be spread across 34 projects, with the majority located in Luzon (4,134 keys) and Visayas (3,336 keys). As these new accommodations come online, they will help meet the rising demand for places to stay as more tourists visit the country.
“The robust pipeline of hotel openings in 2025 reflects the private sector’s confidence in the hospitality industry. We look forward to seeing inbound and domestic tourism grow to match this expansion,”said Leechiu
Property director Alfred Lay. Growth areas
Metro Manila will see the largest
Le Pont Residences a prime investment opportunity
LE PONT Residences offers a unique opportunity for investors seeking long-term growth. Situated in the Bridgetowne Destination Estate, it sits at the crossroads of Quezon City and Pasig, offering easy access to Metro Manila’s major business districts. This strategic location ensures strong rental yields and consistent demand. The property’s proximity to key institutions like University of the Philippines Diliman, Ateneo de Manila University, and world-class hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center and The Medical City make it a sought-after choice for professionals and students alike. A study by Colliers shows that properties in well-connected, mixeduse developments like Bridgetowne tend to grow in value faster. Le Pont Residences benefits from its strategic position in the only master-planned estate that links Quezon City and Pasig. In just under two years, Le Pont
Residences has seen an 8 percent increase in value, with 85 percent of its units sold within 1.5 years. This impressive growth highlights the development’s strong market appeal. Additionally, the estate’s infrastructure and master-planned design boost the property’s potential for continued appreciation, making it a smart investment choice.
Le Pont Residences also stands out for its commitment to sustainability, being the first in Bridgetowne to earn EDGE certification from the International Finance Corporation. With advanced energy-efficient systems, it offers significant savings—34 percent in water use and 45 percent in energy costs. Eco-friendly features like these can increase resale values by up to 23 percent and reduce operating costs by up to 10 percent, making it a futureproof asset for environmentally conscious investors.
increase in accommodation supply, with 2,882 new hotel rooms. Central Visayas, particularly popular destinations like Cebu, Mactan and Panglao, will add a combined 2,354 rooms. These regions are benefiting from improved accessibility due to airport expansions and new air routes, making them even more attractive to both international and domestic tourists.
Popular beach destinations such as Boracay, Coron and El Nido will also see growth, adding 1,240 new rooms. This growth reflects the rising demand for leisure travel, driven in part by better infrastructure and greater convenience.
With the Philippine government and private sector continuing to invest in infrastructure, Leechiu Property said the country is wellpositioned for sustained growth in hospitality.
Beyond the airports, other key
developments such as new roads, bridges and transport networks will help improve connectivity between key tourist destinations, making it easier for travelers to explore more of the archipelago.
of
accessibility, improved transportation and growing accommodation options will drive the
hospitality industry’s recovery and future success.
Cebu Landmasters earns great place to work certification
VIS-MIN property developer Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) has been awarded the prestigious Great Place to Work® certification after 93 percent of its employees declared it a great place to work.
This figure is significantly higher than the Philippine average of 65 percent, reflecting CLI’s commitment to being an employer of choice in the Visayas and Mindanao region.
With more than 1,000 employees across various departments and subsidiaries, CLI has built a strong, high-performance culture. The company’s success is driven by its core values, achieving top scores in leadership, pride, camaraderie, integrity, and employee engagement.
“This certification is a dream realized for CLI as we strive to be a best-in-class employer for our team,” said Joanna Marie SoberanoBergundthal, CLI senior vicepresident for human resources and marketing.
“Our people are our strength, and earning this recognition validates the positive, enabling, and dynamic workplace we’ve built together. It also gives us valuable insights to improve further as an employer.”
CLI used a company-wide employee survey through Great
Place to Work to assess and improve its workplace environment. Nearly 600 employees, with a 65 percent response rate, provided feedback on various aspects of their work life. CLI’s workforce spans a wide range of departments, including Business Development, Engineering, Sales, Marketing, Accounting, Legal, and more. The company operates with subsidiaries such as CLIPM (property management), CLI Hotels and Resorts, and CLI Foundation.
—“— Our people are our strength, and earning this recognition validates the positive, enabling, and dynamic workplace we’ve built together.
“This recognition is just the beginning. It motivates us to continue fostering a culture where every employee feels valued, supported, and inspired to pursue excellence,” Soberano-Bergundthal added.
With this certification, CLI reinforces its dual goal of remaining
Joanna Marie Soberano-Bergundthal, CLI senior vice-president
The combination
increased
Philippine
Jenniffer B. Austria
Jillian Ward to have a leading man
JILLIAN Ward’s move to have a leading man is a natural step in her career as it will allow her to explore more complex roles in the future. In My Ilonggo Girl, her pairing with a strong onscreen
In the series, Jillian portrays Tata, a humble Ilongga from the province, and Venice, a glamorous actress. The series follows Tata as she unexpectedly enters Venice’s world, setting off a series of life-altering encounters.
Jillian’s dual role poses a unique challenge, but it’s one she’s embracing with open arms.
Pokwang, Pooh reunite with Chad Kinis for comedy show in February
COMEDIANS Pokwang and Pooh are reuniting for a new comedy show with Chad Kinis , set for Feb. 8 at The Music Museum in San Juan City. Presented by StageNova Entertainment and CCC Productions, led by director Marvin Caldito and Calvin Chua, the show titled #PoohKie promises a night of humor and entertainment.
Following their Manila performance, the trio will perform in Dubai on Feb. 15 at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium. A U.S. and Canada tour is also scheduled from July to August.
Pokwang and Pooh, known as “Poohkwang,” gained popularity in 2008 with their long-running comedy shows. Pooh is recognized for his impersonations and comedic timing, while Pokwang is known for her versatility and humor.
Joining them is Chad Kinis, winner of Last One Laughing (LOL) Philippines 2024, bringing his energetic style to the lineup. For tickets and inquiries, contact +63 917 991 9190 or message StageNova Entertainment on Facebook.
During the media conference for the show, the 19-yearold Sparkle artist shared that she’s ready to grow, both as an actress and as a leading lady.
“I think it’s about time for me to have a leading man,” Jillian shared. She’s eager to explore a long-term love team, a dynamic she is excited to develop in the show.
In her latest project, Jillian is teaming up again with fellow Sparkle artist Michael Sager. After working together in Abot Kamay na Pangarap, they’re now starring in the romantic comedy that will showcase the beauty and culture of Iloilo.
“This is my first teleserye with GMA Public Affairs, and I’m so thankful for the trust GMA has in me. I’m excited because this is something completely different from what I’ve done before,” Jillian expressed.
My Ilonggo Girl marks Jillian’s return to primetime, and she’s excited to portray characters that are far removed from her previous roles.
“It’s my first time playing a kontrabida, and I’m also playing a
character from the province. Fans will see a different side of me,” she added. Michael, who plays Francis, a driven businessman, shares a strong personal connection to his role.
“I’m very driven. Francis wants to succeed in his business, and I also strive to do well in my career while taking care of my family,” he said.
My Ilonggo Girl features an impressive ensemble cast, including Teresa Loyzaga, Arra San Agustin, Lianne Valentin, and Arlene Muhlach, along with newcomers Sabreenika Santos and Geo Mhanna. Creative direction comes from Conrado Peru, with a talented production team behind the scenes. Premiering today, My Ilonggo Girl airs from Monday to Thursday at 9:35 p.m. on GMA Prime and is available to global audiences through GMA Pinoy TV.
Young actress Jillian Ward stars in ‘My Ilonggo Girl’
Michael Sager portrays the role of Francis, Jillian’s love interest in the series
The star-studded cast of ‘My Ilonggo Girl’ led by by teen star Jillian Ward (center) alongside her leading man, Michael Sager (fifth from left)
From left: Comedians Chad Kinis, Pooh, and Pokwang
2NE1 member Sandara Park
Korean idol Chen of EXO Hori7on’s leader Vinci
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
Ivana Alawi’s LA home nearly hit by wildfires
and social media star Filipina actress Ivana Alawi voiced concern over her Los Angeles property after it narrowly escaped the deadly wildfires sweeping through Southern
“Outside our house rn. Pray for LA,” Ivana shared on her Instagram Story on Saturday, Jan. 11, along with a photo showing flames dangerously close to her residence. It remains unclear if the 28-year-old actress is currently in the U.S. Ivana, who celebrated her birthday on Christmas Day, also posted on Facebook showing another image of the fire approaching her home, saying it was nearly engulfed by the Other Filipino celebrities and Filipino-American residents have also been affected, raising concerns among fans and supporters. Several Hollywood stars, including Jeff Bridges, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Mel Gibson, Paris Hilton, Billy Crystal, Adam Milo Ventimiglia, have reportedly lost their homes
Despite the ongoing danger, Ivana and other residents continue to ask for prayers for everyone’s safety and for the immediate containment of the fire.
The 2025 Los Angeles wildfire is one of the most severe disasters to hit Southern California, causing significant damage to properties, the environment, and the lives of thousands. The fire began in early January, driven by extremely dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds.
DOT paints murals to promote PH biodiversity and beauty
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) has unveiled a series of murals that celebrate the Philippines’ stunning tourist sites and its rich biodiversity to preserve and share the country’s natural beauty for future generations.
From July to October last year, DOT’s regional offices led the “Love Inspired: The Philippines, a Canvas of Biodiversity” campaign in 16 popular tourist locations. The celebrations, also known as Love Biodiversity Day 2024, featured murals created by local artists and educational activities aimed at promoting environmental awareness among tourism stakeholders and local communities. Among the featured destinations was Boracay, renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and vibrant marine life. Artists Lito Panganiban and Japs Avelino, of Island Artists Boracay, created a mural showcasing the island’s iconic sites, including Willy’s Rock and the paraw sailboat, alongside its diverse marine life, such as sea turtles and clownfish.
The DOT’s Region 6 office, which oversees Western Visayas, described the mural as a vibrant portrayal of the island’s flora and fauna, serving as a reminder of the Philippines’ unique biodiversity. “Boracay is home to a diverse range of species, including native trees like Narra and Ipil, as well as over 340 bird species and numerous reptiles, frogs, and mammals,” said Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, Director of DOT-Region 6.
The celebration also included the unveiling of a mural in Clark, Pampanga, a rising tourism hub and culinary capital. The mural, created by Placid Studio artists, highlights local wildlife such as the pawikan (sea turtle) from Bataan and the mole cricket (kamaru) of Pampanga, as well as other regional landmarks like Mount Pinatubo and the waterfalls of Aurora.
Tacloban City, which faced immense destruction from Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in 2013, also participated in the mural initiative. The mural along Magsaysay Boulevard depicted protected landscapes and seascapes, including Samar Island Natural Park and the San Juanico Bridge,
symbolizing the resilience of the region. The DOT called it a “visual road trip” through Eastern Visayas.
In Mindanao, murals were unveiled in Davao and SOCCSKSARGEN to highlight the region’s diverse flora and fauna. A mural in Davao, located in the Mt. Hamiguitan Natural Science Museum, depicts the mountain’s lush ecosystem, guarded by a Philippine eagle, while another mural along the Surallah-Lake Sebu Road in South Cotabato celebrates the biodiversity of Lake Sebu, reminding visitors of the importance of preserving these natural treasures.
The DOT also organized activities to further engage communities in sustainable tourism practices. In Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, the unveiling of the mural was accompanied by a coastal cleanup along Dipolog City Boulevard. In La Union and Iligan City, officials and stakeholders planted over 200 mangrove seedlings, which help protect coastal ecosystems.
Other murals were launched in various parts of the country, including Marinduque, Catanduanes, Baguio City, Dumaguete City, Agusan del Sur, and Arroceros Park in Manila. Each mural represents a commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation.
Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Gissela Marie Quisumbing emphasized that the murals serve as a visual testament to the country’s rich biodiversity and the public’s role in preserving it.
“Every small action, such as supporting local conservation efforts, contributes to positive change,” she said. “Together, we can redefine tourism as a force for good.”
The DOT stressed that its regional offices, along with support from the private sector, continue to be the leading advocates for sustainable tourism in the Philippines.
Darryl Yap retitles controversial Pepsi Paloma film
By Angelica Villanueva
FILMMAKER
Darryl Yap said on Saturday, Jan. 11, that there would be a title change for the Philippine release of his controversial film about the late sexy star Pepsi Paloma In a Facebook post, Yap unveiled the official poster for the film and explained the rationale behind the dual titles— replacing the provocative international title The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma with the simpler Pepsi Paloma Ang Balita. Ang Intriga. Ang Kontrobersya. Ang Hubad na Katotohanan. The Official Poster of #TROPP #TROPP2025. International Title | The Rapists of #PepsiPaloma. Philippine Cinema Title | Pepsi Paloma,” he wrote. The film, premiering this year, has drawn significant attention due to its subject matter, focusing on the life and controversies surrounding Paloma, a young actress and alleged victim of abuse who died under mysterious circumstances in 1985.
The announcement came amid ongoing legal troubles for Yap, following the filing of charges by veteran television host and actor Vic Sotto against the director.
Sotto also filed a writ of habeas data against Yap, seeking to protect his reputation and personal data. The petition is scheduled for a hearing at the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 205 on Jan. 15.
Several Hollywood stars have lost their homes in the wildfires The Love Biodiversity
DOT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Gissela Marie Quisumbing (left) and former DOT – Ilocos regional director Joseph Francisco Ortega unveiled the Love Biodiversity 2024 mural in the municipality of Bauan
Young actress Rhed Bustamante portrays the role of Pepsi Paloma in the controversial Darryl Yap movie
The Love Biodiversity mural made by Island Artists Boracay displays the world-renowned island’s main attractions and rich wildlife (Photo by DOT)
Lake Mead is a destination for
those who look for a serene, laid-back environment
MExploring the hidden gems of the Nevada-Arizona border
Y siblings and I decided to gather in Las Vegas to celebrate our sister’s 70th birthday.
It was a most enjoyable family reunion, especially since all of us are based in different parts of the world and haven’t been together in recent years.
Since all of us had been to Las Vegas many times before, we decided to explore destinations outside the city. The Nevada-Arizona border had some interesting attractions, so we chose to drive there and see these tourist magnets for ourselves. Only 45 minutes away from Las Vegas is Hoover Dam, our first destination for the day. Built in 1931 during the Great Depression, it is named after U.S. President Herbert Hoover and is located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. Although it was renamed Boulder Dam during President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s administration,
the U.S. Congress eventually restored its original name. It certainly was an engineering masterpiece of its time. Such a large concrete structure had never been built before, and some of the techniques applied to its construction had never been used. Built by hundreds of workers from neighboring states, the construction presented a significant challenge as the workers had to deal with the torrid summer heat that the Nevada-Arizona area is known for, as well as the lack of facilities onsite. Several hundred workers died. Nevertheless, it was finished in five years, exactly two years ahead of
schedule.
The dam provides energy for public and private establishments in the states of Nevada, Arizona, and California. To make it easier for sightseers to access this engineering marvel, the Hoover Dam Bypass was opened. This tall concrete bridge spans the Colorado River, connecting Nevada and Arizona, and offers a panoramic bird’s-eye view of the dam.
Very near Hoover Dam is Lake Mead, a reservoir formed by the dam on the Colorado River. In terms of water capacity, it is the largest reservoir in the U.S. and provides water to residents of California, Arizona, Nevada, and the northern part of Mexico.
Although it is connected to the dam complex, Lake Mead is an attraction in its own right. Tourists can go boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing in this large body of water. It even has four marinas for those who have their own yachts. There are also many restaurants and cafes along the lake, offering excellent cuisine and the much-desired relaxing view of the water. We ended our tour at the latest tourist attraction in the area—an attractive art installation in the Nevada desert called Seven Magic Mountains. This colorful public artwork by popular Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone features seven vertically stacked limestone boulders, each approximately 35 feet high, with each boulder painted a different fluorescent color.
Inspired by the balancing rock formations he sees in some parts
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of the Nevada desert, the artist also wanted the stacks to evoke the art of meditative rock balancing, keeping them right in the middle between monumentality and collapse. It is very interesting to see these boulders teetering in the desert sun, yet seeming to defy gravity despite the wind blowing from all directions. We took as many photos as we could of these colorful boulders, but we had to hurry back to our van when we saw the sign warning us about the possibility of venomous snakes in the area. Although people said they usually come out during summer, a few others have been bitten in autumn and winter. We did not want to end up as part of the area’s statistics. It was a fun, leisurely day tour of the Nevada-Arizona border. It was nice to see the laid-back side of Nevada, so different from the flashy, glittering, spectacular scene that Las Vegas and Reno offer.
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The impressive architectural masterpiece of the 19th century, Hoover Dam
Seven Magic Mountains is a beautiful and colorful art installation in the Nevada Desert
