Manila Standard - 2025 January 31 - Friday

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's

By Rio N. Araja

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.

China told: Stop offense, PH to drop Typhon missile

By Charles Dantes

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma. Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong"

Marcos Jr. confirmed that a meeting with United States President Donald Trump is in the works, citing the need to discuss the latter’s new policies on defense, trade and immigration.

Speaking to reporters in Cebu, the President acknowledged concerns over the temporary freezing of U.S. aid programs worldwide and said he would seek clarity on how this relates to the Philippines.

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong"

Marcos Jr. on Thursday said the move challenging the constitutionality of the 2025 General Appropriations Act before the Supreme Court (SC) is part of machinations to destabilize his administration.

When asked about contingency plans should the SC rule against the administration, the President warned that he is willing to allow the government’s operations to come to a halt.

"No, we shut down everything— that’s what they want, they want the government to seize working," Mr. Marcos said.

The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.

Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.

RESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Thursday issued a strong challenge to China, saying his government will remove the US Typhon missile system from the Philippines if Beijing ends its "aggressive

Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-

THE legal counsel of Chinese businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime. Lawyer Raymond Fortun questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Fortun, a lawyer who often finds himself at the center high-profile cases, apparently sought to mock congressmen, calling their probe “unacceptable.”

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.

However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions about Yang recklessly.

The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.

On Friday, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.

Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.

have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.

By Darwin Amojelar

TRANSPORTATION Secretary Jaime Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members.

“The Bilyonaryo article is malicious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story. “Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added. Bilyonaryo reported online that “Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

By Pot Chavez

SECURITY officials said Thursday

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said. Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

they arrested five more Chinese spies, following the detention of another Chinese national and two of his Filipino cohorts for espionage this month.

“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue

conference the men used a drone to document goings-on at a naval detachment, coast guard ships, an air base, a naval base, and a dockyard in Palawan province, the closest major landmass to the Spratlys.

hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.

Two of the suspects were arrested at the NAIA Terminal 3, while the others were nabbed in Pasay City, Dumaguete City, and Intramuros, Manila.

The suspects also used advanced technologies such as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Realtime Kinematics (RTK).

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

National Bureau of Investigation director Jaime Santiago told a news

"This group, based on our surveillance confession of our witnesses, was

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announcement by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). China reportedly made the announcement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity between the Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the regional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -

V. Cruz

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Beijing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.

“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to understand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audience, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said. Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but even

tually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord

By Rosas Olarte and Ratziel San Juan

PAGASA

A WEB OF CRIME? House leaders Aurelio Gonzales and David Suarez presented this matrix during the last QUAD Comm hearing which shows the operations

Edcel Lagman

PH spending more for its defense—NSC

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine government has been beefing up its defense spending to enable its military to foster stronger cooperation with allies, according to a ranking National Security Council (NSC) official.

NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya made this statement following United States President Donald Trump's appeal to allies, including NATO members, to increase their defense spending to a minimum of 2 percent of their gross domestic product.

military aims to safeguard the country's territories, including its 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone.

Malaya said that Manila has been allocating more funds to continue the Horizon 3 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, focused on acquiring equipment and weapon systems for external defense and territorial security of the country.

Malaya also clarified that the presence of the US Medium Range Capability Typhon missile system in the Philippines was not for offensive purposes.

of the BrahMos missile system. The missile system arrived in the Philippines last year and was used for training purposes during the Filipino and American exercises.

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annual joint exercise, and Filipino troops have been training with it, with plans to acquire the system as a means to protect maritime interests.

Beijing's forces have harassed Philippine vessels in recent months in waters within Manila's 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.

"I don't understand (China's) comments on the Typhon missiles. We don't make any comments on their missile systems, and their missile

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monitoring Palawan. They placed a high-resolution solar-powered camera focusing on our seas where our ships are travelling to and from the West Philippine Sea," Santiago said. Among the areas the group was monitoring were the Naval Detachment Oyster Bay, a Coast Guard Station, the Antonio Bautista Air Base, the Del Pilar Class PS-16 Naval Base, and the backyard of Philippine Navy, San-

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The P200 daily wage increase put forward in the House is higher than the P100 daily wage hike approved by the Senate way back in March 2024.

The committee, chaired by Rizal Rep. Juan Fidel Felipe Nograles, approved a motion by Cotabato 3rd District Rep. Ma. Alana Samantha Santos to pass the substitute bill for the "P200 Daily Across-the-Board Wage Increase Act," consolidating House Bills 514, 7568, and 7871.

If enacted, the measure would require all private businesses, regardless of size or industry, to implement a P200 daily pay hike for their workers.

Romualdez—together with Deputy Speaker and TUCP party-list Rep. Democrito Raymond Mendoza and Assistant Majority Leader and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre—met with labor leaders to affirm the House’s commitment to fast-tracking a wage increase measure while ensuring economic sustainability.

"This is a critical step toward achieving inclusive growth and addressing the

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"They want their destabilization efforts to continue," he added. However, the Chief Executive expressed confidence that this year's national budget would pass the high tribunal's scrutiny.

"The Solicitor General [Menardo Guevarra ] tells me that we are on solid footing in terms of constitutionality. I don’t know why they bothered to file that case because their assertion is weak," Mr. Marcos said.

"Anyway, it’s not for me to argue—we will let SolGen make the argument before the Supreme Court," he added.

Former Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez and Davao City 3rd District Isidro Ungab led a group of petitioners in asking the SC to declare the 2025 GAA unconstitutional.

Respondents named in the complaint are the House of Representatives, represented by Speaker Martin Romualdez; the Senate of the Philippines, represented by Senate President Francis Escudero; and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

"We now have a very clear Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) which really requires enormous sums of money in investment into Philippine defense, military spending, or security spending."

Under the CADC, the Philippine

"I think we have shown to the United States that we have been ramping up our defense spending," Malaya said in the Utak Forum held at the New Dapo Restaurant in Quezon City.

systems are a thousand times more powerful than what we have," Mr. Marcos said.

The Philippine Army said this week another of its platoons would be trained on using the Typhon system in February, ahead of annual joint drills with key ally the United States.

The week-long training will be conducted alongside troops from the US Army Pacific’s 1st Multi-Domain Task Force as part of the Combined Arms Training Exercise (CATEX).

On Wednesday, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said China

tiago said.

"We consider them very dangerous to national security because of course, if this falls into other hands, this could be very dangerous for our personnel in the base and also those on board our ships," Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner added.

Some of the arrested Chinese nationals posed as Taiwan tourists in Palawan, provincial board member Ryan Maminta told TeleRadyo Serbisyo.

“That's the information we got –they took videos and set up CCTV cameras in the area. They posed as Tai-

immediate challenges faced by Filipino families," the leader of the 307-member House of Representatives added.

Aside from Nograles, Mendoza, and Acidre, the committee-approved bill was authored by Reps. Ramon Jolo Revilla III (Cavite, 1st District), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela), France Castro (ACT Teachers), Raoul Manuel (Kabataan), Ron Salo (Kabayan), Ramon Guico Jr. (Pangasinan, 5th District), Joseph Lara (Cagayan, 3rd District), Robert Raymund Estrella (Abono), Yedda K. Romualdez (Tingog), Josefina Tallado (Camarines Norte, 1st District), and Jose Ma. Zubiri (Bukidnon, 3rd District).

Under the proposed law, employers must provide an additional P200 per day to their workers’ salaries upon effectivity. The legislation prohibits employers from offsetting the increase with previously granted wage adjustments unless these were explicitly anticipated under collective bargaining agreements. Existing benefits and allowances cannot be reduced as a result of the pay hike.

During the hearing, Mendoza called the committee approval a historic moment, noting it could be the first legislated wage hike since 1989.

Speaking at the 20th National Convention of Lawyers in Cebu, the President assured that there are no "blank checks" in the 2025 national budget, saying he had gone through 4,057 pages of the budget proposal, analyzing and scrutinizing it before signing it into law.

“And so, for those of you, up to now I cannot find those damned blank items. We’ll keep looking, we’ll keep looking. But I'm really convinced that they simply do not exist because they are not allowed to exist,” he said.

“So for those of you who think that the Presidency is just handshakes, photo ops, I assure you, that fine print is alive in my office as well,” he added.

The President did not elaborate on which provisions he had vetoed or the specific concerns he addressed.

His remarks come amid ongoing debates over transparency and accountability in the national budget process.

Opposition lawmakers have previously raised concerns about potential irregularities, including alleged insertions of discretionary funds.

"But let me tell you, as President, I am going to give you a run for your money," Mr. Marcos told them.

"So if we follow the logic where he (Trump) is asking NATO members to devote more of their resources, I think we're also doing the same," Malaya said.

He noted that the Philippine government has been increasing its defense spending to enhance its military capabilities and foster stronger cooperation with allies.

Coast Guard 3304, which replaced

CCG-5901 dubbed the “monster ship,” was last spotted 88 nautical miles away from Zambales.

CCG-5901 was first monitored to have intruded into the country's EEZ at a distance of 54 nautical miles from Capones Island in Zambales on Jan. 4.

“From January 4 until now, we have rotated our vessels to [BRP Teresa] Magbanua, [BRP] Gabriela Silang, [BRP] Suluan, [BRP] Cabra, and then again, it's BRP Teresa Magbanua who is taking responsibility of monitoring and challenging the CCG monster

wanese tourists in our province,” Maminta said.

The NBI said the suspected spies posed as buyers of marine products in Barangay Buenavista in Puerto Princesa City.

The arrest came after authorities nabbed Chinese software engineer Deng Yuanqing and his Filipino associates Ronel Jojo Balundo Besa and Jayson Amado Fernandez for reportedly spying on military and police camps— allegations that were dismissed by the Chinese embassy in Manila.

NBI cybercrime unit chief Jeremy

Marcos ...

From A1

“The U.S. has frozen aid, but I will meet with President Trump because there is much we need to discuss— trade, defense, security, and now the new policy on immigration," Mr. Marcos said.

“It’s hard to comment because it’s still unclear,” he added.

Asked about the meeting between Mr. Marcos and Trump, Presidential Communications Secretary Cesar Chavez said that there is still no definite date.

The Chief Executive said that a one-on-one meeting with the American leader would shed light on many unanswered questions amid a radical pivot in U.S. foreign policy under Trump.

“Even agencies in the U.S. government don’t fully understand what this means, what will be affected, or where the aid funds will be reduced,"

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while NBC reported more than a dozen.

US Figure Skating said several athletes, coaches and officials were aboard the flight, while officials in Moscow confirmed married Russian couple Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov—who won the 1994 world pairs title—were on the jet.

"We unfortunately see that these sad reports are being confirmed. Our other fellow citizens were there," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

The Bombardier plane operated by an American Airlines subsidiary was approaching Reagan National Airport at around 9:00 pm (1:00 pm Thursday in Manila) after flying from Wichita, Kansas, when the collision happened.

US Army officials said the helicopter involved was a Black Hawk carrying three soldiers on a "training flight."

Witness Ari Schulman was driving home when he saw what he described as "a stream of sparks" overhead.

"Initially I saw the plane and it looked fine, normal. It was right about to head over land," he told CNN.

"Three seconds later, and at that point it was banked all the way to the right... I could see the underside of it, it was lit up a very bright yellow, and there was a stream of sparks underneath it," Schulman added.

"It looked like a Roman candle."

"I think the Philippine government has made very clear its position that the presence of the Typhon missile system in the Philippines was part of the 'Balikatan' exercises," he said.

"The purpose of that was to train Filipino troops in utilizing this system, and it is not for offensive purposes, but primarily for defensive purposes and to ensure that the Philippines has the capacity to operate such a weapon system."

The Philippine government has expressed interest in buying the Typhon missile system, similar to its purchase

ship,” Tarriela said.

The PCG also reported a surge in online trolls targeting government social media pages following increased transparency efforts in the WPS.

Tarriela said the PCG and the NTFWPS are developing strategies to “dominate the public discourse about our factual narrative.”

“We are committed to protecting the interests of Filipino fishermen and safeguarding our maritime jurisdiction. At the same time, as President Marcos said, we should come up with actions that will not escalate the tension,” he added. With AFP

Lotoc said Thursday an unnamed "foreign national" was giving orders to Deng.

Some of the suspects have been living in the Philippines since 2002 and did not have any criminal records, Immigration bureau spokeswoman Dana Sandoval said.

Beijing claims most of the strategic South China Sea despite an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the fresh arrests. With AFP

he noted.

Mr. Marcos described the current situation in the U.S. as part of the “growing pains” of a new administration in Washington, expressing confidence that the policies will eventually become clearer.

“With time, these policies will crystalize, and by then, I will have the opportunity to visit President Trump and discuss them with a better understanding of what they entail,” the President said.

He also noted that hundreds of Filipinos have reportedly been expelled from the U.S. in the past week, as he stressed the importance of addressing immigration policies that directly affect Filipinos working there.

"We have to work through this and hopefully resolve it because Filipinos in the US play a crucial role in their workforce," Mr. Marcos explained.

"We will see how we can influence policy making in terms of immigration," he added.

Trump criticizes traffic control

President Donald Trump said in an official statement that he had been "fully briefed", and added of any victims, "may God bless their souls."

Less than four hours after the disaster—and while other officials stressed they were waiting for investigations to unfold—he took to social media to critique air traffic control.

"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

"Why didn't the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn't the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!"

The Federal Aviation Administration ordered the grounding of all planes at Reagan National and the airport was not due to reopen until 11:00 am (1600 GMT) Thursday. American Airlines' chief executive issued a video statement in which he expressed "deep sorrow", while US Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas called the collision "nothing short of a nightmare." Crowded airspace

It was unclear how a passenger plane with modern collision-avoidance technology and nearby traffic controllers could collide with a military aircraft over the nation's capital. AFP

"Very clearly, it is for defense purposes, so as mentioned by the AFP, this is a sovereign act, this is a decision of the Philippine government, and it is not meant for any other state, but for the territorial integrity of the Philippines," he said.

China had previously criticized the deployment of the missile system to the Philippines, claiming it poses a threat to regional peace and security. However, Malaya's statement reaffirms the Philippine government's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and fostering stronger.

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Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin acknowledged the encouraging results, particularly in disaster response, basic education, poverty alleviation, and job creation.

A recent SWS survey, conducted from Dec. 12 to 18, showed that 59% of adult Filipinos are satisfied with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration, while 23% are dissatisfied and 17% remain undecided.

The administration also noted positive public perception toward its housing programs, food security initiatives, and transportation improvements. However, Bersamin emphasized that while surveys serve as valuable indicators of public opinion, they do not necessarily reflect the long-term impact of government policies.

Despite the favorable survey results, Bersamin reaffirmed its commitment to using such feedback as a tool to further refine and enhance service delivery.

The non-commissioned survey, conducted face-to-face from December 12 to 18, 2024, gathered responses from 2,160 adults nationwide: 1,080 from Balance Luzon, and 360 each from Metro Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The respondents were asked: “Overall, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the current national administration?” Results showed that 59% were satisfied, 23% dissatisfied, and 17% were neutral about the administration’s overall performance.

This maintained the same net satisfaction rating of the administration in September 2024 but marked a fourpoint drop from +40 in June of that year.

Regional satisfaction ratings revealed Balance Luzon and Visayas had the highest net satisfaction scores at +44 each, followed by Metro Manila with +31. Meanwhile, Mindanao recorded the lowest satisfaction rating at +16.

The SWS reported that the national government fared well in terms of helping disaster victims (+65), improving the quality of education (+60), assisting the poor (+57), job generation policies (+51), and developing science and technology (+51).

Other key areas where the administration was rated “good” included food security, defense of sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, efficient public transportation, and addressing climate change.

Interestingly, despite food security being rated as “good,” many Filipinos remain concerned about hunger. The administration's performance on “ensuring that no family will ever be hungry and have nothing to eat” was rated moderate, while its efforts in “fighting inflation” were deemed “poor.”

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82-year-old father died of cardiac arrest. He was brought to St Luke's Hospital where doctors pronounced his passing at 5:01 p.m.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Albay First District Representative and Liberal Party President Edcel C. Lagman," Krisel said.

"He will be remembered and honored by his family, friends, and colleagues as a remarkable and generous father; a warm, thoughtful, and loving brother, uncle, and lolo; a true and loyal friend; and an upright, principled, and unwavering advocate of human rights and the rule of law," she added.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Gatchalian alarmed on field trip mishap

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian voiced deep concern over the reported mishaps during a recent field trip to Bataan involving students from Bestlink College of the Philippines.

Reports claimed that students were forced to walk for hours under harsh conditions due to transportation issues.

Gatchalian emphasized that field trips should enhance education while ensuring the safety and well-being of students.

“The failure to ensure students’ wellbeing is unacceptable. This is not the first time that the school conducted an off-campus activity that resulted in a mishap,” the senator revealed.

In 2017, a tragic bus accident during another school trip claimed 15 lives, including students and a teacher. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has issued a show-cause order against Bestlink College following this latest incident. Ram Superable

BI agents halt 2 Pinays bound for

Malaysia

TWO Filipino women who were about to leave the country and were allegedly being recruited illegally with the promise of high-paying jobs abroad were saved by immigration officers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section (I-PROBES) chief Mary Jane Hizon said the two passengers attempted to travel to Malaysia disguised as regular tourists when they were flagged by officers.

Both admitted that they were bound for Malaysia after being recruited by a woman they knew as ‘Madame” to work as cleaners in a hotel. Their recruiter allegedly advised them to work as tourists while they were applying for work visas in the said country.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said that the “tourist worker scheme” is often abused by recruiters, tricking Filipinos to agree to such set-ups. Vito Barcelo

SC opens applications for

Shari’ah Bar

THE Supreme Court (SC) declared on Thursday the opening of the 2025 Shari’ah special Bar exams (SSBE) application which will run until February 28.

Associate Justice Antonio T. Kho, Jr., 2025 SSBE chairperson, said applications for the 2025 SSBE shall be filed exclusively through the Barista, accessible via the Philippine Judiciary Portal (PJP).

“Applicants must create their account in the PJP using their personal e-mail addresses... Once the application form is completed, the applicant must upload clear and legible copies of the required supporting documents,” said SC through the Bar Bulletin No. 2. The tentative target locations of testing centers include Cagayan de Oro City, Davao City, Quezon City and Zamboanga City. Pot Chavez

‘Be wary of fake Navy recruitment drive’

THE Philippine Navy is urging the public to be cautious and to verify information regarding military recruitment.

In its Facebook post, the Navy said it noticed that there is an unauthorized recruitment circulation on the said social media that leads to confusion among applicants.

“This information is inaccurate, and we want to clarify that official updates will only be shared through our verified Facebook page and other authorized channels,” the Navy said. “We urge everyone to verify the information by cross-checking it with official announcements, report misleading posts, and share only our official posts to help spread accurate details.”

The Navy earlier encouraged qualified patriotic Filipinos to enter the naval force this year as the organization needs an additional 431 officers and 2,034 enlisted personnel. Rex Espiritu

JEEPNEY FARE. A barker collects fare from commuters at a jeepney terminal along Pedro Gil Street in Malate, Manila bound for Makati City on Thursday. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has recently revealed that it is evaluating a proposal to increase the minimum jeepney fare to P15. Norman Cruz

Gov’t needs P2.5b for BARMM polls

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections ( Comelec) would need P2.5 billion for the separate elections of the Bangsamoro Parliament originally scheduled on May 12 but was instead proposed to move the elections to October 13.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said that the resetting and postponement of the BARMM elections would mean a special election will be held in five months and will need separate equipment, teachers, and ballots.

Garcia said holding the BARMM polls synchronously with the national and local elections will save funds.

AMONG BIRDS. A farm worker in Las Pinas City uses a modern tractor to till the soil as birds follow him hunting for worms. Joseph Muego

The poll body also deferred the printing of at least 2.5 million ballots for the BARMM elections after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. certified as urgent the proposed measure postponing the Bangsamoro Parliamentary elections. However, the Comelec expressed hope that the BARMM parliamentary elections would push through so they

could continue preparing for the polls.

Garcia also noted that the poll body will need to assess whether the rescheduling of the election will require the reopening of the filing of certificates of candidacy.

Senate Bill No. 2942, or a bill seeking to reset the parliamentary elections to October 13, 2025, is now certified as urgent by the President.

Senators are hopeful that the House of Representatives will adopt the Senate version of the bill postponing BARMM polls, which reflects the preferred timeline of the Executive Branch, Senator Francis Escudero said.

“I don’t know, but I would hope so

‘Mactan

runway just a snapshot of more projects’

THE inauguration of a new runway in Mactan-Cebu International Airport

(MCIA) is just a “snapshot” of the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Thursday, noting the plan to upgrade 15 more airports nationwide.

“It’s only a snapshot of all the exciting things that are happening in our

airport infrastructure. It is part of our broader vision to advance the development of our country’s infrastructure,”

Mr. Marcos said during the inauguration of the MCIA alternate runway in Lapu-Lapu City.

Mr. Marcos noted that the Aviation Infrastructure Program will get P7.7 billion this year for the upgrade of 15 airports nationwide.

He said the government aims to modernize facilities, improve connectivity, and acquire state-of-the-art navigational equipment.

“Through this program, we can construct, rehabilitate, and enhance runways, taxiways, ramps, control towers, passenger terminals, while at the same time acquiring state-of-the-art navigational equipment,”

Mr. Marcos said. Charles Dantes

given that we carried the preferred period of the Executive Branch, which, in turn, was the product of much debate and discussion principally among our security and election officials,” Escudero said in a Viber message to reporters.

Senate Deputy Majority Leader Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, who sponsored the bill, emphasized the importance of coordination between the Senate and Malacañang on the matter. Ejercito said the discussions centered on a five- to six-month postponement, but senators eventually settled on five months. The version that was approved by the House seeks to defer the BARMM polls for a period of one year.

SWS: 8 groups sure to win one party-list seat

By Rachelle Tonelada

OUT of 156 party-list groups vying for congressional seats in the May 2025 elections, only eight would secure at least one seat in the House of Representatives if elections were held today, according to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey. Leading the race is 4PS (Pagtibayin at Palaguin ang Pangkabuhayang Pilipino) with 11.8% voter preference, though this reflects a decline from 13.51% in December 2024. Duterte Youth follows in second place, registering 6.05%, a significant increase from 4.14% in December.

According to the Party-List System Act (Republic Act No. 7941), party-list groups must secure at least 2% of the total votes to earn one seat in the House of Representatives. Those surpassing this threshold are eligible for additional seats, with a maximum of three seats per party-list group. Among all groups, only 4PS and Duterte Youth are projected to win the maximum three seats in Congress.

CBCP sets up minors’ protection office

By Vito Barcelo

FOLLOWING allegations of sexual abuse against at least 50 Filipino priests by the U.S.-based abuse monitoring organization BishopAccountability. org, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) established an Office for the Safeguarding of Minors.

Anne Barrett Doyle, co-director of Bishop Accountability, revealed the information and expressed her hope that a «robust public dialogue» regarding child sexual abuse within religious institutions would commence in the Philippines.

“We want victims to know that there are people in the Philippines who would give them vigorous support,” she said.

Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, president of the CBCP, stated that the office will treat

the accountability issue “very seriously.”

“Rome now mandates that each diocese create its own Office for the Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Adults, along with appointing a designated individual to formally handle complaints,” David said.

He also mentioned that Archbishop Florentino Lavarias leads the Office for the Safeguarding of Minors.

David said the bishop or the religious superior is responsible for dealing with complaints of abuse against priests belonging to their diocese or religious congregation, and if the complainants feel there was no action, the papal nuncio will be informed.

“If alleged abuse case against a cleric concerns minors and vulnerable adults, the bishop is required to keep Rome informed about it,” he said.

PNP sheds light on ‘Oplan Katok’

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said the implementation of “Oplan Katok” will continue as part of normal police operations going to the May elections, clarifying that the campaign was not meant to harass anyone.

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the drive involved police visits to homes of registered gun owners with expired licenses to remind them to renew their permits and to surrender the firearms while the registration is being processed.

Firearms with expired licenses are considered loose and could put the delinquent owners in legal troubles.

“This (Oplan Katok) is a normal PNP duty. The purpose is to account for all the firearms because the cause of vio -

IN BRIEF

FFCCCII eyes stronger PH-China relations

IN CELEBRATION of the 50th anniversary of PhilippineChina diplomatic relations, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) on Wednesday vowed to boost bilateral ties despite tensions over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In his message, FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro said the festivity is a reminder of the ties that bind the Filipino-Chinese community.

“This golden milestone symbolizes long-standing relations between our nations spanning centuries, and commemorates the deep cultural and economic bonds between the Filipino and Chinese people. Over the years, we have built bridges of understanding and nurtured a partnership that has withstood the test of time,” Pedro said. Pot Chavez

Solon seeks creation of PH disaster map

A LEGISLATOR pushed the passage of a bill mandating the development and issuance by the government of a national disaster map as a means to help save lives and mitigate losses from natural calamities.

Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan said House Bill (HB) 1120, once enacted, will provide for the creation of this map which will contain a list that clearly identifies low-lying areas vulnerable to rising sea levels and communities at high-risk to natural disasters.

“We cannot prevent the occurrences of typhoons, volcanic eruptions, and other natural phenomena, aggravated by the added threat of climate change. But it is possible to mitigate their impact by adopting science-based strategies. These include creating a national disaster map that would help communities, especially coastal areas, to prepare and lessen the devastating effects of these disasters,” Yamsuan said. Maricel V. Cruz

PH, US open $2.7-m fuel storage in Cebu

THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the US Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) on Thursday launched a $2.7-million newly completed fuel storage facility at the Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

The project, bankrolled by Washington under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), features two storage tanks with 75,708 liters capacity apiece.

“It also features a modern fuel handling system, a covered parking area for refueling trucks, and a secured perimeter, designed and constructed compliant to security and safety standards,” PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said. Construction of the project started on June 22, 2022 and was completed on Sept. 6, 2024.

PH to host ASEAN correctional confab

THE Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), in cooperation with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), will host the second ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference to be held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on February 14 to 17.

With the theme “Weaving the ASEAN Regional Corrections Identity: Co-creating a Shared Vision of Transformation,” the conference aims to bring together the heads of all ASEAN prison facilities to discuss common challenges and share best practices in jail management.

The 10 participating countries are Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Timor Leste, and the Philippines.

DSWD

By Maricel V. Cruz

lence is firearms,” Marbil told reporters on the sidelines of the PNP Day celebration in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Marbil issued the clarification after Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman George Garcia said the campaign could be used to intimidate candidates and voters ahead of the May polls.

“We only knock at the doors of owners of unregistered firearms. We do not visit all houses. I’ll discuss it with the chairman because this is part of the normal police duty. Its purpose is to really account (for) all the firearms (in private hands),” Marbil said.

He said the PNP is concerned over the proliferation of loose firearms, including those with expired licenses and those lost by the owners that can be actually used in violent activities going to the elections.

In 2023, the PNP reported that there are more than 500,000 firearms with expired licenses in the country.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said they would meet with Comelec officials next week to discuss the matter.

Meanwhile, the PNP installed gun checkpoints to ferret out loose firearms during the election period from Jan. 12 to June 11.

QC gov’t set to implement calorie count

By Rio N. Araja

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has signed the implementing rules and regulations of an ordinance requiring restaurants, fast food chains, and other eateries to put calorie count on menus effective Dec. 20 this year.

At a media briefing, Belmonte said a one-year grace period is given not only to the food shops but everybody before the city government would strictly implement the measure.

“This is a holistic approach,” the mayor said.

She said the grace period would give the food establishments a clear timeline and guidelines to comply with Ordinance SP-3254 or the Quezon City Calorie Labeling Ordinance, as well as the schools, barangays and the other stakeholders to adopt the measure and for the city government to prepare for strict and proper implementation of the fiat.

Even concerned city personnel will be trained on how to validate calorie count and properly implement the ordinance, Belmonte noted.

The city government has launched an intensive information drive to heighten public awareness about the importance of knowing how much calories does a food item contain.

“We are empowering our QCitizens to have their informed decisions about their health,” Belmonte said.

The initiative underscored the city government’s commitment to improve the health of its citizens and to save lives through the prevention of non-communicable diseases.

father; the important thing is that the grantee is either his wife or child who will be included in our F1KD program,” Ponce said in Filipino.

natal visits, participating in counselling sessions, and obtaining micronutrient supplements and immunizations, Ponce said.

THE First 1,000 Days (F1KD) of Life conditional cash grant under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is not only for pregnant women, but also for children zero to two years old. 4Ps social marketing division chief Marie Grace Ponce issued this clarification, saying the DSWD has expanded the program's coverage to better help the public.

“The coverage of our program is either pregnant women or zero to two years old children. So it doesn’t matter if the grantee is a mother or

The F1KD is set to boost the nutrition-specific benefits among 4Ps beneficiaries, particularly for household-beneficiaries with pregnant and lactating mothers nursing new born babies.

To receive the monthly F1KD grants, all qualified 4Ps beneficiaries must comply with the requirements of the program, including accessing pre-natal services at DOH-accredited health facilities, tracking pregnancy and receiving antenatal care services, child birthing or delivery at a DOH-accredited health facility, attending post-

Ponce urged qualified 4Ps members to update their beneficiary profile manually through forms provided by city or municipal links, or digitally through the i-Registro web portal.

The i-Registro is a new digital platform that will enable beneficiaries to update their information. It can be accessed through https:// iregistro-4ps.dswd.gov.ph. However, 4Ps beneficiaries may only choose one method of updating their records to prevent duplication of entries.

By Dexter

OPINION

Is single-digit poverty rate achievable by 2028?

THE Philippine Development Plan for 2023-2028 targets the reduction of the current poverty rate of 15.5 percent to at least 9 percent by the end of the term of President Marcos Jr.

Is this target achievable or realistic at all?

Poverty incidence is defined by the PSA as the proportion of Filipino families with incomes that are not sufficient to buy their minimum basic food and non-food needs as estimated by the poverty threshold. At individual level, 15.5 percent of Filipinos or about 17.54 million Filipinos (equivalent to around 3 million families) were poor in 2023. The agency identified 740,000 families (2.7 percent) as “food poor” in 2023, meaning their incomes do not meet basic food needs. This marked an improvement from 2021, when 1.04 million families (3.9 percent) were categorized as food poor.

Based on these, the poverty situation in the country has returned to its pre-pandemic level, according to the PSA. But a 2024 survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) reported bad news: that 16 million Filipino families considered themselves poor, a record high during President Marcos Jr.’s term. The estimated number of self-rated poor families was 16.0 million in June 2024, up from 12.9 million in March 2024. By the fourth quarter of 2024, the number of Filipino families who considered themselves poor continued to increase, with half of them—the highest in more than 20 years—rating themselves food-poor, or unable to afford or access food that make up a healthy diet.

The latest SWS survey showed that Filipino families who considered themselves “mahirap” or poor rose to 63 percent in the last quarter of 2024, the highest recorded since the 64 percent in November 2003.

The survey revealed a steady rise in self-rated poverty, with a significant increase from 46 percent in March 2024 to 58 percent in June, 59 percent in September, and finally reaching 63 percent in December. This resulted in the 2024 annual average for self-rated poor families of 57 percent, a nine-point increase from the 48 percent recorded in both 2023 and 2022.

The four-point increase in the nationwide self-rated poverty between September and Dec. 2024 is due to increases in the Visayas and Mindanao, combined with a steady percentage in Luzon outside Metro Manila and a slight decrease in Metro Manila.

Self-rated poverty was highest in Mindanao at 76 percent, followed by the Visayas at 74 percent, Luzon outside Metro Manila at 55 percent, and Metro Manila at 51 percent.

DSWD to the rescue

Given the available data from the PSA and recent surveys, the Department of Social Welfare and Development must do all it can to reach the desired goal of cutting poverty incidence to single-digit level by 2028.

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is being implemented by the DSWD as a vital component of its poverty-reduction strategy.

—“—

The DSWD cannot do it by its lonesome but in close coordination with other agencies using a whole-ofgovernment approach

The 4Ps is a national poverty reduction strategy and a human capital investment program that provides conditional cash transfer to qualified household-beneficiaries. It is also a human development program which provides social protection, social assistance, social development, and other complementary support services in partnership with concerned agencies, local government and other stakeholders towards improving the health, nutrition, education, and socio-economic aspects of life of disadvantaged Filipinos.

Among the specific objectives of 4Ps are to raise the average consumption rate in food expenditure of poor households; increase child growth and lower stunting among children 5 years old below, and encourage parents to invest in their children’s health, nutrition and education.

The goal of the program is to reduce poverty by promoting the accumulation of human capital among young children (0-18 years old), thus, contributing in breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty among poor households.

The DSWD reported that at the start of 2024, there were a total of 4.4 million 4Ps families nationwide. By the end of the year, the agency recorded 4 million 4Ps households, indicating that 400,000 households graduated from the program.

More than half of the DSWD’s 2024 budget was allocated to the 4Ps program.

For the 2025 budget, P64.18 billion was earmarked for the 4Ps.

At our weekly news forum that I comoderate, the DSWD has given assurances that it is possible to achieve singledigit poverty rate by 2028.

Of course, the DSWD cannot do it by its lonesome but in close coordination with other agencies using a whole-ofgovernment approach.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Pregnancy as a result of premarital relations not illegal

“IN the eyes of the law, there is a standard of morality that binds all those who come before it, which is public and secular, not religious. It is important to make this distinction as the [Supreme] Court’s jurisdiction extends only to public and secular morality” (Bohol Wisdom School, et al. v. Mabao, G.R. 252124, July 23, 2024).

“Public and secular morality refers to conduct proscribed because they are detrimental to conditions upon which depend the existence and progress of human society. Otherwise, if government relies upon religious beliefs in formulating public policies and morals, the resulting policies and morals would require conformity to what some might regard as [a] religious program or agenda” (ibid.) In the case of Bohol Wisdom School, et al. v. Mabao, Miraflor Mabao (Mabao) “was suspended for engaging in premarital sexual relations, resulting in being pregnant out of wedlock.” “Mabao was a former [grade school] teacher at BWS [who] started working… on June 7, 2007…”

“Sometime in the afternoon of Sept. 21, 2016, Mabao approached… the grade school principal of BWS… to discuss the matter of her pregnancy… The father of Mabao’s baby was her boyfriend, Ian Usaraga.”

A few days kater, “Mabao was summoned to the conference room of BWS

where Deloso (the head of the Administrative Team) verbally suspended [her], telling her not to report to her classes starting the next day until she could present documents showing she was already married to her boyfriend.”

—“—

The [Supreme] Court has previously ruled… that premarital sexual relations resulting in pregnancy out of wedlock cannot be considered disgraceful or immoral when viewed against the prevailing norms of conduct

“On Oct. 5, 2016, Mabao filed a complaint before the National Labor Relations Commission for illegal suspension, illegal dismissal, proportionate 13th month pay, service incentive leave pay, rice allowance, separation pay, damages,

Espionage or legit research?

THE spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs was quoted as saying recently that “as always, the Chinese government asks Chinese nationals overseas to abide by local laws and regulations.”

Obviously, their own citizens here did not get the memo from their own government or chose to ignore it completely.

Otherwise, the recent arrest of several Chinese suspected of espionage here would not engage in a serious crime in our statutes, as in all other countries in the world.

They can thank their lucky stars that we are not engaged in a full-blown war with China despite increased tensions in the West Philippine Sea, or else they would have been promptly blindfolded and made to face a firing squad after their arrest.

As we are a democratic country, we can assure the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs that our government would “protect the lawful rights and interests” of Chinese nationals, including one Deng Yuanqing who has been described by the National Bureau of Investigation as a suspected “sleeper agent” and a technical software engineer connected with the

attorney’s fees, and issuance of a Certificate of Employment.”

BWS and the school officers presented their own version of facts, alleging “Mabao confessed to [Principal] Sabaricos and Deloso she was pregnant out of wedlock but was in the process of securing a marriage license.”

“Mabao was called to a conference where she admitted her violation, expressed regret, and stated she was about to get married in a few days.”

BWS also said: “so that students will not see Mabao’s situation and raise questions about her pregnancy, it was agreed that Mabao would be suspended from work until she got married.”

After receiving information that Mabao got married, BWS required her to return to work but despite repeated notices failed to do so.

“The [Supreme] Court has previously ruled… that premarital sexual relations resulting in pregnancy out of wedlock cannot be considered disgraceful or immoral when viewed against the prevailing norms of conduct.”

In Leus v. St. Scholastica’s College Westgrove, the Court said while “her indiscretion [resulting in] her pregnancy out of wedlock, is anathema to the doc-

People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The NBI said Deng studied at the PLA-controlled University of Science and Technology in Nanjing, Jiangsu, China, specializing in control engineering and automation systems. He was arrested in Makati on Jan. 17 along with two Filipino cohorts who acted as his driver and assistant.

Our authorities uncovered enough proof of Deng Yuanqing’s espionage activities

Our authorities uncovered enough proof of Deng’s espionage activities. The NBI said Deng engaged in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations “to the prejudice of our national defense.”

Deng and his driver and assistant are alleged to have visited military and police headquarters, municipal halls and other local government offices, and even power installations.

Among the areas they visited were a substation of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines in Batangas province and the headquarters of the Philippine Army’s 201st Infantry Brigade in

trines of the Catholic Church… [such] conduct cannot be considered as disgraceful or immoral…” (cited in Bohol Wisdom School, et al. v. Mabao).

Yet in another case, the Supreme Court declared the couple “were adults who met at work, dated, fell in love and became sweethearts.”

“They took their marriage vows soon after Zaida recovered from her miscarriage, thus validating their union in the eyes of both men and God” (Inocente v. St. Vincent Foundation for Children and Aging cited in Bohol Wisdom School, et al. v. Mabao).

“All these circumstances show the sincerity and honesty of their relationship… They also show their genuine regard and love for one another — a natural human emotion that is neither shameless, callous, nor offensive to the opinion of the upright and respectable members of the secular community” (Inocente v. St. Vincent Foundation for Children and Aging cited in Bohol Wisdom School, et al. v. Mabao).

“Sexual intercourse between two consenting adults who have no legal impediment to marry, like respondent [Mabao] and her boyfriend, is not deemed as immoral. No law proscribes such, and said

Cavinti, Laguna. The trio also visited the Malampaya gas field off Palawan’s waters.

Armed Forces of the Philippine Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner also revealed that Deng targeted the nine locations in the country selected for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between the Philippine and US armed forces.

In “military targeting,” the AFP chief said, information such as activities in the area and the vehicles that can pass through these terrains is vital.

All this took place starting only in December, according to our authorities. The broad scale of this espionage operation shows, in the words of Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, “deliberate and calculated move to map out” the Philippines by a “foreign power.”

If we connect the dots and situate this obvious espionage operation within the context of previous incidents, including the arrest of foreign nationals with fake government IDs and fake birth certificates, as well as the recent discovery of a underwater drone with Chinese markings found in Masbate—the fifth such drone found in various areas now under the custody of the AFP—there’s something really going on here that should merit a deeper probe by our government, despite the disavowal by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs of what appears to be wide-ranging espionage activities in our country by Beijing.

conduct does not contravene any fundamental state policy enshrined in the Constitution” (ibid.)

The Supreme Court found “that [Mabao’s] act of engaging in premarital sexual relations with her boyfriend and eventually getting pregnant, is not disgraceful or immoral within the contemplation of the law.” Hence, her “suspension on the ground of engaging in premarital sexual relations resulting in pregnancy out of wedlock is therefore illegal” (ibid.)

“Suspension from work must be reasonable to meet the Constitutional requirement of due process of law. It will be reasonable if it is based on just or authorized causes enumerated in the Labor Code. The employee must also be given notice and the opportunity to be heard before judgment is rendered” (ibid.)

In fact, “per the Minutes of the Administrative Team Meeting held… prior to including [Mabao] in the meeting…, the Administrative Team already decided that [she] will be suspended… until she is legally married to her partner.”

Evidently, BWS “already decided [Mabao’s] disciplinary sanction before hearing her side” which violated the latter’s procedural right to due process (ibid.)

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in landscape format of a huge pile of skulls and at the center of the pile is a sign that has an image of an evil grinning silhouette with a question mark at the face and another sign with an arrow pointing at the caricature that says “disbarment needed.”

Israel cuts ties with UN aid agency

JERUSALEM – Israel will cut ties with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees on Thursday following accusations it provided cover for Hamas militants, a move likely to hamper delivery of its vital services after 15 months of war in Gaza.

The agency, UNRWA, will be banned from operating on Israeli soil, and contact between it and Israeli officials will also be forbidden.

UNRWA has provided support for Palestinian refugees around the Middle East for over 70 years, but has long clashed with Israeli officials, who have repeatedly accused it of undermining the country’s security.

The hostility intensified in the wake of Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel, with accusations that UNRWA employees participated in the assault.

“Humanitarian aid doesn’t equal UNRWA, and UNRWA doesn’t equal humanitarian aid. UNRWA equals an organization infested with Hamas terror activity,” Israeli foreign ministry spokesman Oren Marmorstein wrote on social media platform X ahead of the ban.

“This is why, beginning on Jan. 30 and in accordance with Israeli law, Israel will have no contact with UNRWA.”

The agency’s offices and staff in Is-

rael play a major role in the provision of healthcare and education to Palestinians, including those living in the Gaza Strip, which has been devastated by the war between Israel and Hamas.

Government spokesman David Mencer told journalists on Wednesday that “UNRWA is riddled with Hamas operatives,” adding that “if a state funds UNRWA, that state is funding terrorists.”

“UNRWA employs over 1,200 Hamas members, including terrorists who carried out the Oct. 7 massacre,” Mencer said. “This isn’t aid, it’s direct financial support for terror.”

Later on Wednesday, Israel’s Supreme Court rejected a petition by Palestinian human rights group Adalah contesting the UNRWA ban.

The court did note that the legislation “prohibits UNRWA activity only on the sovereign territory of the State of Israel”, but “does not prohibit such activity in the areas of Judea-Samaria and the Gaza Strip”, referring to the West Bank by its biblical name. AFP

People walk toward an of Israeli military vehicle blocking a road, during a military raid in Jenin in the occupied West Bank, on Wednesday. The Palestinian health ministry said Israeli forces killed two people in

Unfazed devotees ignore panic at India mega-fest

PRAYAGRAJ, India – Swarming throngs of devotees bathed in rivers at the world’s biggest religious gathering in India on Thursday, undeterred by a stampede a day earlier that killed at least 30 people.

The Kumbh Mela attracts tens of millions of Hindu faithful from around India every 12 years to the northern city of Prayagraj, but has a woeful record of deadly crowd incidents.

Wednesday’s pre-dawn disaster, which saw a surging crowd spill out of a police cordon and trample bystanders, prompted some spooked pilgrims to leave the festival.

But many more were still arriving in the stampede’s aftermath to participate in what they said was a matter of religious obligation.

“We’ve obviously heard about the stampede,” 21-year-old Naveen Pradhan, who arrived at the festival with his family hours after the disaster, told AFP.

“But this is a holy thing, a religious thing, something we should do as Hindus, and my family wouldn’t have missed this no matter what.”

The six-week Kumbh Mela is the single biggest milestone on the Hindu religious calendar, and Wednesday marked one of the holiest days in the festival, coinciding with an alignment of the Solar System’s planets.

Despite the early morning disaster, saffron-clad holy men continued with the day’s rituals hours later, leading millions into a sincleansing bath by the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.

“The journey was challenging -- the trains were packed, the train stations were packed,” pharmacist Padmabati Dam, who travelled by train for more than 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) to reach the festival, told AFP. AFP

Israel, Hamas poised for 3rd hostage-prisoner exchange

JERUSALEM – Israel and Hamas were set to carry out their third hostage-prisoner exchange on Thursday, with three Israelis and five Thai captives slated for release as part of a ceasefire deal aimed at ending the Gaza war.

A fourth exchange is scheduled for the weekend, but Hamas accused Israel on Wednesday of jeopardizing the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as “fake news”.

The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu identified the three Israelis to be released on Thursday as Arbel Yehud, Agam Berger and Gadi Moses, adding that five Thais held in Gaza would also be freed. Ahead of the release, which sources in Hamas and allied militant group Islamic Jihad said would take place at Jabalia refugee camp and Khan Yunis at around 0900 GMT, Islamic jihad aired video footage of Moses and Yehud hugging each other and smiling.

On Wednesday, a Moses family statement said it had “received with great excitement the wonderful news of our beloved Gadi’s return”. The ceasefire that began on Jan. 19 hinges on the release of Israeli hostages taken during Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, in exchange for 1,900 people -- mostly Palestinians -- in Israeli custody. Hamas has so far released seven hostages, with 290 prisoners freed in exchange. Israel is to release 110 prisoners, including 30 minors, in exchange for the three Israelis, the Palestinian Prisoners’ Club advocacy group said. The next swap on Saturday will see three Israeli men released, according to Netanyahu’s office. AFP

PRO-PALESTINIAN UNRWA BANNED.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 , 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD

Van der Valk grabs lead with eagle, birdie for 70

STA. ROSA, Laguna—Guido van der Valk shouldered himself past a competitive field with a composed and calculated performance, firing the day’s best two-under-par 70, highlighted by an eagle and a monster birdie putt, as he wrested a two-stroke lead in the third round of The Country Club Invitational on Thursday here. Starting the day four strokes off the pace at sixth spot, van der Valk vaulted to the top at one-over 217 after first day co-leader LJ Go faltered with two bogeys in the final seven holes, settling for a 74 and a 219.

Halfway leader Clyde Mondilla also aimed for a charge, starting strong with a birdie on the par-5 second hole. However, back-to-back setbacks – a triple bogey and a bogey from No. 4 – halted his momentum. He managed to recover and briefly tied van der Valk with a birdie on the 10th, only to slip again with a costly double bogey on the 16th. A final-hole miscue left him with a 77, dropping him to third place at 220, now three shots behind the leader. This enabled van der Valk, who turned 45 last Sunday, to seize the lead against the very players he had previously defeated to claim his first two TCC Invitational titles. He dominated Go by five strokes in the 2023 edition of what has become the Philippine Golf Tour’s premier event, three years after narrowly edging out Mondilla by one.

Despite holding a two-stroke advantage, the Manila-based Dutchman remained cautious about his chances of securing a record-tying victory in the P6 million championship held in honor of ICTSI founder Don Pocholo Razon.

“This golf course is difficult to dominate because mistakes are easy to make and birdies are hard to come by. Everyone is facing the same challenges,” said van der Valk. “I’ve been lucky to win it twice, but that doesn’t guarantee I’ll do it again. There are too many great players in contention.”

OWN A PIECE OF HISTORY

POC launches limited-edition

Paris Olympic Games’ watch

By Randy M. Caluag

SPORTS fans and collectors have a rare opportunity to own a piece of sports history as the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) unveils a limited-edition Paris Olympic Games’ watch.

With only 55 pieces available, this exclusive timepiece is a true collector’s item.

Priced at P75,000 each, the watches are being sold as part of the POC Athletes’ Incentives Fund, a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting Filipino athletes.

“There is a limited opportunity to own physical

your favorite number,” said POC secretary general Wharton Chan.

Obiena bags silver in return to competition

By Peter Atencio

ERNEST John “EJ” Obiena is slowly shaking off the rust out of his system and getting back into the groove following a four-month break.

The 29-year-old Obiena was far from his best in the last two years, but his leap of 5.65 meters on his first attempt earned him a silver medal at the International Jump Meeting Cottbus in on Thursday in Germany.

Obiena, whose world ranking has fallen no.4 after rising to as high as no. 2 last year, then beat Bo Kanda Lita Baehre (Germany) and Ben Broeders (Belgium) via countback.

American Sam Kendricks, the silver medalist at the Paris Olympics, took the gold medal with a leap of 5.75m.

He sought to clear 5.75 meters to be at par with Kendricks, but Obiena missed out on all his three tries at that height.

It was Obiena’s first meet since the Paris Olympics last August, after he withdrew from his remaining competitions for the rest of the year.

Obiena decided to return home and seek medical assistance for his bothersome back injury that hounded him during the Olympics and sidelined him from his remaining stints in the 2024 Diamond League series.

He was eventually diagnosed with a “fractured L5 vertebra” and cleared to train last October.

Obiena’s performance serves as a warmup for his coming major events, which include the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China this March.

some sense in the aborted training and ID camp for the Filipinas. In a chat late morning yesterday, he gave The Designated Kit Man the real reasons for the sudden switch of schedules for the Filipinas, as well as several good news. The reasons first. “The US camp didn’t make sense at

this point. Logistics were difficult because of what happened in Southern California. We couldn’t do it there and anywhere else would have driven the costs through the roof. 75% of the staff wouldn’t be there because they have no visas,” Gonzalez said. In case you lived under a rock for the past several weeks or months, wildfires have ravaged key areas in California, so this reason makes sense. And bringing an entire team abroad would entail a lot of funding, which is now a challenge for the Filipinas coaching staff and the PFF as well, since former team manager and patron Jeff Cheng decided to leave the team and instead focus his attention in helping several women’s teams, including some teams too in the Philippines Football League, in the local domestic scene.

“The people we were working with in Southern California couldn’t commit because of the fires. In Northern California naman, the logistics were just a nightmare, ” Gonzalez explained.

Gonzalez added that fixtures against CONCACAF teams, which were sup-

The high-end 42mm watch, available in black and white dials, also comes with an extra steel bracelet for added versatility. As of Thursday, only 50 pieces remain, according to the POC’s official page.

“This is your chance to be part of something truly special while contributing to the POC Athletes’ Incentives Fund,” the POC said in its announcement. Beyond this initiative, Chan has led fundraising efforts for Paris Olympics’-bound athletes, including organizing two golf tournaments. Additionally, with the approval of POC president Bambol Tolentino, he has been actively engaging with local government officials across the country to promote grassroots sports development.

One of his recent visits was to Lipa City, where he joined Mayor Eric Africa and the Lipa City Council in launching the construction of a world-class Olympic Center, further solidifying the POC’s commitment to nurture future Olympians.

Legendary Perpetual volley coach Acaylar dies

THE Perpetual Help community is mourning the passing of multi-titled veteran volleyball coach Sinfronio “Sammy” Acaylar on Thursday morning, January 30, 2025, five days before his 67th birthday.

Sam, as he was fondly called by his players, suffered a stroke early Monday and was confined at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Perpetual Help Medical Center in Alabang-Zapote road, Pamplona III, Las Piñas City, where he succumbed at 1:30 a.m. on Thursday due to cardiac arrest.

Acaylar was known for his unprecedented 14 NCAA Men’s Volleyball Titles since 1985. He was the architect of the dominance of the Perpetual Help Men’s Volleyball Team in the NCAA. Under his tutelage, the team ruled the league as champions

posed to play friendlies against the Filipinas, have also been cancelled.

“Teams often cancel in the women’s game because they don’t have the same budget as their male counterparts, which can be frustrating,” Gonzalez explained.

The team has another option. Gonzalez said they were invited to play in a tournament in Turkey. Unfortunately, India cancelled at the last minute and instead chose to play in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

“Hong Kong didn’t want to just play us so they cancelled, too.” Gonzalez added.

He also revealed that there was an option to play against club teams and possibly Puerto Rico, but then again the options were no longer feasible so the coaching staff decided to do a camp in Manila instead.

Now the other news.

“Maz (Mayumi) Pacheco is now out of the team because she hurt her calf yesterday (Wednesday in Manila). Same with Nina Mathelus,” Gonzalez confirmed.

Pacheco is, of course, one of the most awaited players that the PFF has been trying to come and play for the Filipinas. She

from 1985 to 1990, 2010 to 2014, 20152015, 2017 to 2020, and 2022 to 2024. During these years, coach Sam was named Coach of the Year. He was also coach of the Cignal HD Spikers from 2013 to 2016 and the Philippine Men’s Volleyball Team in 1991, 2009, 2017 and 2019. He was part of the coaching staff of Russian coach Stanislav Lugailo when the national women’s volleyball team won its last gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games in Singapore in 1993. In 2017, he became the Altas’ sports director.

Coach Sam’s remains will lie in state at the Perpetual Help Chapel inside the Las Piñas City campus for six days before being taken to his hometown in Cagayan de Oro City. Dennis Abrina

is also a professional footballer, a defender, who plays for Aston Villa in the Women’s Super League in the United Kingdom. The good news.

Despite being injured, Pacheco and Mathelus will be in the lineup for sure. A lot of new players will be coming in and the list of new players that need help in fast-tracking their documents and papers, have already been forwarded to the appropriate Senate committees.

“Josef Baccay is already getting his passport. Andre Leipold, Cole Mrowka and Randy Schneider are all just processing certain documents but should get their passports before the AFC deadline. The rest were all submitted to the Senate because they will help with the naturalization for both men’s and women’s national teams,” Gonzalez revealed.

(For the rest of the column, go to manilastandard.net)

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_ cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

memorabilia of this historic milestone in Philippine sports. Get yours early to secure

Guido van der Valk fires

day’s best twounder-par 70, highlighted by an eagle and a monster birdie putt, as he vaulted to the top at one-over 217. Manny Marcelo

The Paris Olympic watches in black or white

Ernest John ‘EJ’ Obiena

Sammy Acaylar Dennis Abrina

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Ayala Land expects strong profit growth

PAGCOR’s revenues hit record P112b in 2024

JG Summit closes P150-b petrochem plant in Batangas

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CONGLOMERATE JG Summit

Holdings Inc. said Thursday it closed down its P150-billion petrochemical plant in Batangas province due to lingering global slump in demand.

“Given persisting unfavorable market conditions in the global petrochemical industry, JG Summit Olefins Corp. [JGSOC] is now on an indefinite commercial shutdown,” JG Summit said in a statement.

JG Summit said while on shutdown, JGSOC would continue to sell from existing product inventory.

Meanwhile, the LPG trading operations of Peak Fuel Corp., a subsidiary of JGSOC, will remain unaffected by the shutdown.

“JGSOC continues to evaluate various options to mitigate the adverse effects of challenging market conditions, and will make the appropriate decision in due course,” JG Summit said.

JG Summit in November said it would inject up to P17.1 billion to JGSOC to cover maturing obligations. It also infused P11 billion in 2023.

The conglomerate has been supporting its petrochemical business over the past few years amid the global slowdown in demand.

The petrochemical business has also been a drag to the group’s performance over the past few years.

JGSOC booked a net loss of P11.4 billion in the first nine months of 2024 due to higher financing costs and additional depreciation from the fully-completed

PH economy grew 5.6%, missed 2024 gov’t target

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines gross domestic product expanded 5.6 percent year-on-year in 2024, missing the government’s 6 percent to 6.5 percent target, but remained one of the region’s fastest-growing economies.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the GDP grew 5.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024, which brought the 2024 full-year GDP growth to 5.6 percent. The 2024 growth was slightly faster than the 5.5 percent expansion in 2023.

“While this falls short of our target of 6.0 to 6.5 percent, we are positioned as the third fastest-growing economy in the region, trailing Vietnam [7.5 percent] and China [5.4 percent] but outpacing Malaysia [4.8 percent],”

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon said.

Among the main contributors to the fourth-quarter growth were wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 5.5 percent; financial and insurance activities, 8.5 percent; and construction, 7.8 percent.

Data from the PSA showed that for the whole 2024, the industries that contributed the most to the annual growth were wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 5.6 percent; financial and insurance activities, 9.0 percent; and construction, 10.3 percent.

Meanwhile, the gross national income (GNI) grew 6.2 percent year-

on-year in the fourth quarter of 2024. This brought the full-year 2024 growth to 7.6 percent. Net primary income from the rest of the world rose 14.1 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024, which resulted in a full-year growth of 26.1 percent.

“To achieve resilient economic growth, we need to diversify our sources of growth. For inclusive quality employment, we must encourage more investments in sectors that require workers with higher-level skills and further develop an agile workforce. To keep food inflation low and stable, we need to anticipate potential shocks and continue to employ multipronged approaches,” said Edillon.

Edillon said for 2025, the government wants to regain its growth momentum, driven by strategic investments and initiatives designed to strengthen resilience and lay the foundation for long-term, inclusive growth.

ADB approves another $500-m loan to upskill Filipino labor force

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) said Thursday approved a $500-million policy-based loan for the Philippines to bolster labor market programs to improve worker productivity and employability.

The Business and Employment Recovery Program-Subprogram 2 is assisting the government in pursuing reforms and initiatives to achieve inclusive economic growth by equipping the country’s labor force, including vulnerable youth, with the skills required to meet evolving industry needs.

It also aims to increase women’s participation in the workforce via technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and provide better access to livelihood and employment opportunities through government job facilitation programs.

“While job recovery in the Philippines has been encouraging in the post-COVID-19 period, the quality of jobs remains a critical concern, with many workers still facing challenges such as underemployment, informality, and limited access to decent work opportunities,” said ADB country director for the Philippines Pavit Ramachandran.

program addresses that need and will help in preparing Filipino workers for higher-skilled jobs such as in analytics and artificial intelligence, software development and security, and business process management—industries where Filipinos have a proven potential to excel,” he said. Under the program, the government is targeting to increase the formal employment in the private sector by an average of 600,000 to 700,000 jobs

per year, with the share of private sector jobs to total employment rising to 51 percent against 49 percent in 2019, or prior to the COVID-19 pandemic which led to massive job losses and contraction in industry output.

Other targets include skills training for 5,000 workers, including those displaced during the COVID-19 pandemic, through private sector-led programs such as the SkillsUpNet Philippines or similar workplace skills

training program piloted by the government with ADB support.

The government also wants to raise the number of job placements through public employment service offices (PESOs) in local government units (LGUs) across the country by 120,000 annually and expand the number of LGUs implementing the JobStart Philippines skills training program for the youth not in education, employment or training.

Meta posts big profit, aims to take AI lead

SAN FRANCISCO—Social media giant Meta on Wednesday reported surging profits and revenue for 2024, announcing ambitious plans to expand its artificial intelligence infrastructure in the year ahead.

The bullish projection about the company’s AI future sent shares in the company spiking by as much as five percent in after hours trading, though this later steadied to two percent.

“This new

THE Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) announced Thursday the suspension of an order setting the guidelines on importation of fructose and other sugar alternatives amid complaints from the local industry.

The SRA said it suspended Sugar Order 6 (SO) which sets guidelines for the importation of certain sugars and sugar confectionery, pending further consultations with industry representatives.

SRA chief Pablo Azcona said the agency’s board made the decision during a meeting on Jan. 23, in response to concerns raised by importers.

“We have received letters and are actively reaching out to set up meetings with the concerned groups,” Azcona said.

He said the Department of Agriculture (DA) was tasked to facilitate further discussions with stakeholders.

Azcona said two key issues were identified during the consultation process including concerns about processing delays and the associated costs of compliance.

Azcona reassured the industry that the SRA processes over a thousand sugar-related import clearances each year, with typical processing times averaging just two to three working days.

“We have been issuing import clearances for fructose under the same 1702 code since 2017, and there have been no reports of delays or disruptions to business operations,” he said.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg said he believed that Meta’s AI powers would make it a world leader on the technology, even if he warned that delivering on the hefty investments needed would “take time.”

The parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp saw its net income soar 59 percent to $62.36 billion for the full year, while fourth-quarter profits jumped 49 percent to $20.84 billion. Revenue reached $164.5 billion, up 22 percent from 2023, boosted by stronger advertising performance as ad prices rose 10 percent and impressions increased 11 percent across its platforms. The solid performance comes amid significant shifts in Meta’s content policies intended to endear the company to US President Donald Trump.

The company recently announced the end of its US fact-checking program aimed at combating misinformation, a move that followed criticism from conservative voices who viewed such efforts as censorship. AFP

PAG-IBIG PROMO. Pag-

IBIG Fund vicepresident Marcial Pimentel Jr. and the members of the board of trustees lead the inaugural raffle draw during the launching of One Plus One (OPO) raffle promo at the City Garden Hotel in Makati City on Jan. 30, 2025. Joseph Muego

CHINESE NEW YEAR. Fast-food chain Chowking energizes the crowd in Sta. Cruz, Manila during Chinese New Year celebrations on Jan. 30, 2025, as it marks its 40th anniversary. Chowking also introduced its new ‘Kung Hei Fat Chow!’ meal, designed for family celebrations. Norman Cruz

The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) $500-million loan will help equip the Filipino labor force, including vulnerable youth, with upgraded skills required by industries.

PSEi drops to 14-month low of 6,107

PHILIPPINE stocks declined for a fourth straight trading day as investors expressed disappointment over the weaker-than-expected gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the fourth quarter.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index fell 45.81 points, or 0.74 percent, to close at 6,107.66, the lowest in more than 14 months.

The broader all-shares index also declined by 24.20 points, or 0.67 percent, to settle at 3,599.32.

The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the country’s GDP grew 5.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024, bringing full-year growth to 5.6 percent.

The 2024 growth was below the government’s 6 percent to 6.5 percent target for 2024.

Veteran stock broker Jonathan Ravelas said the 2024 GDP report was “quite disappointing.” He said this was the second time that the country failed to reach its 6-percent growth target.

Also contributing to the market’s decline was the US Federal Reserve’s decision to keep their policy rates unchanged. The Fed during its first meeting under Trump administration decided to keep its policy rates amid concerns about inflation rate.

Two of the six sectoral indices ended in the green. Properties rose 0.67 percent, while services climbed 0.49 percent.

Mining and oil plunged by 3.3 percent, and holding firms went down 2.12 percent. Jenniffer B. Austria

ALI sees profit rising twice faster than GDP

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PROPERTY developer Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) expects to grow its profit twice the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth over the next five years, chief finance officer Augusto Bengzon said.

Bengzon said the group remains positive about overall business, particularly its residential, commercial and hospitality.

He also confirmed reports that ALI offered to buy a 1.1-hectare land donated to the Asian Institute of Management based on current market price.

ALI group head for leasing and

THE Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) launched an electric shuttle service in partnership with GET Philippines Inc, the country’s only all-electric passenger transport provider.

The service aims to provide sustainable and convenient transportation option for commuters traveling between PITX and key locations within the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) complex.

“The PITX Electric Shuttle Service is a significant step toward modernizing our transport system with sustainable solutions,” said PITX president Jaime Raphael Feliciano.

“As we introduce this initiative at PITX, we envision expanding it to future projects, such as the Cavite BRT system, if proven successful. This service represents our commitment to delivering reliable and eco-friendly commuting options for Filipinos,” he said.

The service, designed to support environmental sustainability, utilizes GET Philippines’s COMET electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce carbon emissions and offer a greener alternative to traditional public transport.

The PITX Electric Shuttle Service is tailored to the needs of partner organizations, offering customized routes and schedules that cater to office workers, students, and mall-goers within the MOA complex.

The initial route stops include PITX, SMX, SM MOA South Wing, SM MOA North Wing, Two E-Com Center, Four E-Com Center, SM Retail HQ/Shore Residences Bldg. C, Shore 3 Residences, Shell Residences, SM MOA Globe and Sea Residences. Darwin G. Amojelar

hospitality Mariana Beatriz Zobel de Ayala told reporters the group continues to expand its mall, office and hotel businesses. She said about 700,000 square meters of commercial space are under planning and construction.

ALI will open 78,000 sq. m. of retail space, the phase 1 of Vermosa in Cavite, Park Triangle in Bonifacio

Global City and first phases of Solenad 4 and Arca South this year.

“We have a lot of conviction in the Filipino consumer, and part of that is because we saw 10-percent growth in foot traffic last year. That for us was quite promising,” Zobel de Ayala said.

She said the group’s newly-opened malls like One Ayala and Manila Bay were also doing well.

She said the ongoing mall renovations of Ayala Center Cebu, Trinoma and Greenbelt were about 40-percent to 60-percent completed.

“The renovations are on track and are creating a lot of excitement in our tenants,” Zobel de Ayala said.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

VICTORIA International Container Terminal (VICT), operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) at the Port of Melbourne, purchased four new hybrid automatic container carriers (ACCs) from Kalmar to expand capacity and reduce emissions.

Scheduled for delivery in 2025, each carrier will boast of a twin-box lifting capacity of up to 60 tons and Kalmar’s latest hybrid technology, including lithium-ion batteries for energy recovery. This technology will improve energy efficiency by 40 percent and reduce CO2 emissions by 50 tons per carrier annually.

“We value our partnership with Kalmar and their technical support,” said VICT chief executive Bruno Porchietto.

“These new hybrid carriers are part of our expansion plan, which will increase our capacity to 1.5 million TEUs annually. This investment demonstrates our commitment to customer focus, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring we can meet the growing demand for our services while minimizing our environmental impact,” he said.

VICT is the only fully-automated container terminal in the Southern Hemisphere. It operates seven remotely controlled ship-to-shore cranes (five super post-Panamax and two ultra post-Panamax – the largest in Australia), 17 ACCs, and 26 automated stacking cranes (ASCs).

All cranes are equipped with energy recovery systems, contributing to the terminal’s energy efficiency and CO2 emission reduction goals.

The investment follows a record year for VICT in 2024, during which it handled its five millionth TEU since opening in 2017.

tion utilities.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said it approved the creation of a technical working group to investigate the damage on infrastructure managed by the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).

The damage to the transmission facilities of NGCP was attributed to the excavation works performed by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

“After due deliberation, the commission resolved to approve the recommendation for the approval of the creation of a technical working group to conduct investigation on the CebuMandaue incident, subject to the revisions on the composition, timelines and scope of work,” the ERC said.

NGCP said in previous reports Line 2 of its Cebu-Mandaue 138-kiloVolt (kV) underground power line was damaged during excavation activities conducted by the DPWH in Barangay Umapad,

NORTHERN Davao Electric Cooperative Inc. (Nordeco) called for an impartial deliberation of House Bill No. 11072, extending the franchise area of Davao Light Power Corp.

Nordeco acting general manager Elvera Alngog said in a statement HB 11072 as amended had gone from being vetoed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to its amended form.

“Hopeless and baseless as it is, we don’t see any improvement in the proposed amendment to the bill which expands the targeted areas to the whole of Davao de Oro for the franchise takeover as it is in itself unconstitutional in its entirety,” Alngog said.

“Moreover, the bill in its original and its amended form is anti-

Mandaue City on Jan. 21, 2023. The incident triggered the line tripping at 10 a.m. on the same date which forced NGCP to temporarily divert a maximum of 180 megawatts of the affected loads to the remaining Line 1 to restore transmission services to parts of the Visayan Electric Co. (VECO) and Mactan Electric Co. (MECO) franchise areas.

Prior to the incident, the CebuMandaue 138kV lines 1 and 2 transmitted 274 MW to the two distribu-

NGCP energized its Cebu-Mandaue line 2 at 2:54 p.m. on June 25, 2023, after completing repairs on the said underground line. ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said there was already an initial assessment by technical team on the incident “but the TWG is necessary to make sure not just technical but legal and market-related issues are addressed as well, including formulation of rules that would apply to similar incidents.”

Alngog said the figures cited—242.33 minutes for SAIDI and 4.99 for SAIFI (July 2024)—were a gross misrepresentation of the electric cooperative’s actual performance metrics and the data cited actually covers the period January to June and not July alone.

“Such error undermined the integrity of public discourse and betrayed the commitment to truth and fairness that all stakeholders must uphold,” Alngog said.

She said the electric cooperative learned its lessons from the past that led Nordeco to attain an “AA” category. Alena Mae S. Flores

people. To recall at the House of Representatives, the simulation of the Energy Regulatory Commission proved that there will be an increase in power bill in either original version or amended version. It is thus appropriate the bill should be disapproved,” Alngog said. She also called as inaccurate and misleading the presentation of data in the continuing deliberation of HB 11072, saying “much of what have been said in the report of the subcommittee on the extension of Davao Light Power Corp. franchise area led by Senator Miguel Zubiri were unfounded.” She said Nordeco reports on the presentation of its system average interruption duration index (SAIDI) and system average interruption frequency index (SAIFI) data were “untruthful.”

Victoria International Container Terminal (VICT), International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s (ICTSI) operation at the Port of Melbourne, purchases four new hybrid automatic container carriers (ACCs) from Kalmar to expand capacity and reduce emissions.

The new carriers, scheduled for delivery in 2025, will each feature a twin-box lifting capacity of up to 60 tons and Kalmar’s latest hybrid technology with lithium-ion batteries for energy recovery. MANILA WATER’S PLEDGE. Manila Water Company Inc. is now part of

corruption. Signing the pledge of commitment are (from left) UNGC chairperson Victoria Tan, Manila Water president and chief executive Jocot de Dios and sustainability director Sarah Bergado.

BUSINESS

PAGCOR’s revenues soared 41% to record P112b in 2024

STATE-RUN Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) said Thursday its revenues hit a new record high of P112 billion in 2024, or nearly 41 percent more than P79 billion in 2023, on the back of the sustained robust performance of the electronic games sector.

It said net operating income in 2024 reached P84.97 billion, or 51 percent higher than the year-ago level of P56.38 billion, while net income after deducting its P68.21 billion contributions to the government was at P16.77 billion.

“We are proud to announce that our 2024 financial performance is the best

so far in the history of PAGCOR, and we thank our employees and stakeholders for making such achievement possible,” PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco said.

Prior to 2024, the highest gross operating revenue on record for PAGCOR was in 2019 – before the

pandemic outbreak – when the state gaming firm generated P81.98 billion.

Gaming operations and license fees remained the primary revenue sources, contributing P97.52 billion, while other revenue streams including business income and service fees added P14.18 billion.

Net income more than doubled from P6.81 billion in 2023 to P16.76 billion in 2024.

Tengco attributed the agency’s financial performance to the e-games and e-bingo sectors which contributed P48.79 billion or 50.03 percent of the 2024 gaming revenues.

“The continuous growth of the e-games sector is the key driver of

PAGCOR’s record-breaking performance,” Tengco said.

“It reflects the increasing popularity of digital gaming platforms and the transformative impact of technology on the industry,” he said.

The licensed casino sector chipped in 33.91 percent or P33.07 billion to PAGCOR’s 2024 revenue pie, while the agency’s Casino Filipino venues contributed 12.99 percent or P12.67 billion.

Although the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs) ceased in December 2024 on orders of the President, the sector still contributed P2.99 billion, or 3.07 percent, to gaming revenues.

NPC to hold bidding for hybrid power projects in February

By Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN National Power Corp. (NPC) moved the bidding for the Accelerated Hybridization Plan (AHP) for four pilot areas to February 2025.

“We are in the final stages of preparing the bid documents to ensure a transparent and efficient process. The tentative target date to start the procurement process will be in the first or second week of February 2025,” NPC said.

NPC said it would post the invitation to bid at the Philippine

MALABON’S SHIELD.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completes several flood control projects to protect a riverside neighborhood inhabited by a fishing community in Barangay Muzon, Malabon City. Seven phases of the Muzon River Wall Project were implemented, with combined allocation of P330.50 million in 2024.

The projects involved the installation of steel sheets pile driven into the ground to form a wall, H-pile or H-shaped steel beams for deep foundations and thick concrete slab to connect multiple piles.

Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS), the company’s website and bulletin board and in selected newspapers of general circulation. It encouraged interested bidders to get in touch with NPC for updates.

NPC conducted a pre-procurement forum for the AHP in December 2024, with the participation of over 30 companies, which included an array of organizations such as renewable energy developers, system integrators, engineering, procurement and construction contractors, technology providers and the government agency

Public-Private Partnership Center (PPPC).

“Notably, four foreign companies also joined the forum, demonstrating the global reach and appeal of the project,” the company said.

The AHP will allow the entry of the private sector to put up RE generation plants or facilities to supplement, augment or replace the existing capacities in the operations of NPCs Small Power Utilities Group (SPUG) diesel power plants.

AHP is a first of its kind for missionary areas or Small Power Utilities Group of NPC.

Court rulings reaffirm ERC’s role as power regulator

RECENT rulings by the Supreme Court (SC) and the Court of Appeals (CA) reaffirmed the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC)’s authority as the sole and independent regulator of the country’s electric power industry.

These latest rulings strengthen the ERC’s jurisdiction on significant regulatory issues, including consumer complaints, bill deposit policies and oversight of electricity generation and supply operations, the ERC said in a statement.

The SC, in Colmenares v. ERC (G.R. No. 246422) case dated Oct. 8, 2024 and issued Jan. 27, 2025, affirmed the ERC’s power to require bill deposits from consumers as a legitimate exercise of its ratefixing function to ensure the economic viability of distribution utilities (DUs).

“This court is not a trier of facts, and ordinarily, it has no competence to resolve factual questions. In choosing to directly

raise these issues before this court, petitioners should have ensured that their petition does not raise any factual questions. Instead, they cite the Ombudsman decision’s findings of fact as substitute in claiming that the factual basis for its conclusions was well founded. However, this is improper because the Ombudsman decision is not pending before us. Until its finality, the Ombudsman’s findings cannot be considered as binding before this court. There being questions of fact, petitioners direct resort to this Court is unjustified,” the SC said.

Meanwhile, in early January of 2025, the court, in Hicap v. ERC, et al (G.R. No. 210334) dated Aug. 1, 2023, the SC also upheld the mandate of the ERC pursuant to Republic Act No. 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA) and the well-established doctrine of upholding the technical expertise of regulatory agencies.

QUICK AUTO SERVICE. Officials of the Board of Investments (BOI) meet with representatives of Anest Iwata A.I.R. Corp. to discuss the company’s joint venture with Kurumaya Complete Auto Care (Kurumaya) for its repair shop operations, specifically for car coating repair services. Shown are (from left) Anest Iwata mobility business team engineer Rikiya Kato, president Yoshiyuki Suzuki, BOI Investments Promotion Services executive director Evariste Cagatan, BOI International Investments Promotion Service director Lanie Dormiendo and Kurumaya Complete Auto Care’s Eugene Sergio Naguiat

Financial experts asked to protect gov’t budget

THE country’s finance leaders should use their expertise to help ensure national resources are used for the betterment of Filipino lives, a top executive of PHINMA Corp. said.

“As finance professionals, we cannot stay silent when we see concerning patterns in public spending,” said PHINMA chairman and chief executive Ramon del Rosario Jr.

“We should not just be guardians of corporate bottom lines; we should be stewards of our nation’s dignity and well-being,” he said. Del Rosario spoke during the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) 2025 induction ceremonies at the Makati Diamond Residences.

He cited this year’s P6.32 trillion national budget, noting cuts to education and health care budgets compared with more than P260 billion added for public works projects during bicameral committee meetings.

“Our role is not merely to crunch numbers, but to safeguard the dignity of every Filipino by ensuring that our nation’s resources are used wisely and equitably,” said del Rosario, who also chairs the PHINMA-DLSU Center for Business and Society Board of Trustees.

“We must bring our technical expertise to the forefront of budget discussions, providing independent analysis and evidence-based recommendations,” he said.

Del Rosario urged FINEX to explain complex budget issues to the public, collaborate with advocacy groups to push for beneficial reforms, and advocate for using national resources to strengthen institutions.

Group seeks tobacco farmers’ inclusion in gov’t boards, anti-smuggling council

THE Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) called for the inclusion of tobacco farmers in government agencies and boards including the AntiAgricultural Economic Sabotage Council to protect their livelihood.

Former Agriculture Secretary Leonardo Montemayor, FFF board chairman, said farmers are key to solving the problems of the tobacco leaf industry.

“Colleagues and friends in the tobacco industry, and in agriculture as a whole, all of us are in the same boat. If we are the problem, we are also the solution,” Montemayor said in a speech at the Second International Tobacco Summit on Jan. 27, 2025 at Seda Vertis North in Quezon City.

Montemayor cited the need to institutionalize farmers’ representation and participation in policy formulation and program implementation at all levels of government.

“This includes their early appointment to the advisory board under the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council, headed by the president, pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 12022,” he said.

The National Tobacco Administration noted in the same conference that the illicit tobacco trade adversely impacts the livelihood of 2.2 million Filipinos who are dependent on tobacco including more than 430,000 farmers, farm workers, and their family members.

Montemayor said many so-called “experts” analyze issues from an academic perspective, without fully appreciating the complexities on the ground.

“It is vitally important for real solution-seekers to consider these matters from the ‘worm’s eye-view,’” he said. Montemayor said policymakers and program implementers need to understand farmers’ priorities, capabilities and limitations from the farmers’ perspective.

“They must interact regularly with producers to discover what can move them to act and what will discourage them. Otherwise, the best laid plans and budgets will be wasted,” he said.

“Farmers associations and cooperatives can play a crucial role in helping members access farm credit, information, technical and other services. Additionally, they can undertake valueadding and marketing activities for their membership,” he said.

Montemayor said a paramount concern for tobacco producers is the adequacy—or lack of—their earnings from tobacco cultivation.

Compared to staple and other highvalue crops, income from tobacco growing is generally more remunerative. This is due to a system of assured floor prices, credit, extension and marketing support from the government and the private commercial sector, he said.

TGov’t vows to keep bike lanes

HE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it is expanding its active transport program, making roads more inclusive for cyclists and pedestrians.

DOTr Undersecretary Jesus

Ferdinand Ortega said the agency would continue to establish bike lanes nationwide, along with comprehensive bike facilities for cyclists and bike commuters.

“The bike lanes program will continue. On the part of the DOTr and us cyclists, we will not give up [the bike lanes]. We will make sure that the bike lanes will continue and will still grow,” Ortega said over DOTr’s Sakay Na! radio program on Radyo Pilipinas.

Under the Active Transport Program, the DOTr is looking to establish 2,400 kilometers of protected and dedicated lanes for cyclists by year 2028. Apart from cycling, the transport agency is also constructing walkways to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the national government would prioritize active transport by creating facilities such as “safe walkways and secured bike lanes to promote healthier and more sustainable modes of travel.”

Active transport is in line with the National Transport Policy (NTP) and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 (PDP).

Under these initiatives, pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles are accorded the highest priority in the hierarchy of road users. It also mandates government to prioritize the development of active transport infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Ortega said that Ayala Land Inc. would commence construction of the Taguig Integrated Terminal Exchange Project (ITX) on

NESTLÉ Philippines the world’s largest food & beverage company, has teamed uo with Mober, a frontrunner in green logistics services in the Philippines, to integrate electric vehicles (EVs) into its midand last-mile delivery operations, supporting its goal of achieving netzero emissions by 2050 and helping meet its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

As part of the partnership, Mober will provide electric trucks (e-trucks) to service Nestlé Philippines’ logistics needs across Metro Manila.

To ensure seamless and sustainable operations, Mober has dedicated a 60 kWh EV charging station powered entirely by renewable electricity at Nestlé Philippines’ Greater Manila Area (GMA) Distribution Center in Meycauayan, Bulacan.

This infrastructure helps Nestlé’s EV fleet run entirely on renewable electricity when charged at GMADC, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Compared to EVs charged with grid electricity, which emit approximately 0.68 kg of CO2 per kWh, the use of renewable electricity for charging eliminates

THE Civil Service Commission

(CSC) has issued a Certificate of Registration for a three-year Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) between the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the LRTA Employees Association (LRTA-EA).

CSC Director Philip C. Apostol presented the registration certificate to LRTA Management during the Flag Raising Ceremony at the LRT2 Depot, this morning, January 27, 2025.

The CNA provides LRTA employees with a range of benefits,

The bike lanes program will continue. On the part of the DOTr and us cyclists, we will not give up the bike lanes.

— JESUS FERDINAND ORTEGA DOTr Undersecretary

Feb. 3, 2025. The project will rise on

a 4.7-hectare site.

“Hopefully the project will be operational in two years,” he added.

It will connect passengers coming from the Laguna/Batangas side to other transport systems such as the future North-South Commuter Railway project (currently the Philippine National Railways), city bus, taxi and other public utility vehicles that are serving inner Metro Manila.

The project will include passenger

Mober and Nestlé Philippines partner to drive green logistics

From left: Anderson

and procurement, Nestlé Philippines, and Dennis Ng, founder and chief executive, Mober. emissions, setting a new standard for zero-emission logistics.

“At Mober, we believe in taking bold steps toward reducing carbon emissions, and we’re proud to support Nestlé in achieving its 2050 net-zero commitments,” Dennis Ng, chief executive of Mober said.

“With our eight electric trucks

CSC awards CNA certificate of registration to LRTA employees’ association

including CNA bonuses, health cards, shuttle services, and leave benefits, aimed at addressing their work-related needs while ensuring continued service to the public.

The LRTA-EA functions as the exclusive negotiating body for LRTA’s rank-and-file employees, operating under Rule XIII of the Amended Rules and Regulations of Executive Order No. 180, which delineates the rights of government employees to organize and establish public sector labor-management relations.

currently servicing Nestlé Philippines’ operations, we’re helping them not only reduce their carbon footprint but also set an example for the FMCG industry,” he added.

Nestlé Philippines, which achieved 100 percent renewable electricity in all its sites two years ahead of schedule, has set ambitious sustainability goals,

including halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. By advancing its Net Zero Roadmap, the company demonstrates its broader commitment to sustainable operations, responsible sourcing, and collaborative innovation across its value chain.

“Adding cargo EVs to our distribution fleet is part of our efforts to transform our operations by reducing the carbon emissions of our supply chain. We want our consumers to enjoy their favorite Nestlé products knowing that these were produced and distributed to them using 100 percent renewable electricity,” Anderson Martins, head of Supply Chain and Procurement, Nestlé Philippines said.

“This is part of Nestlé’s global vision of a net zero future that has brought about various shifts in sustainable business practices. We hope that by doing this, we can further create a positive impact on society and the planet,” he added.

Looking ahead, Nestlé Philippines is committed to expanding its EVpowered deliveries to more cities nationwide in partnership with Mober.

LRTA Administrator Hernando T. Cabrera (second from left) and other members of the LRTA-EA received the Certificate of Registration.

terminal buildings, arrival and departure bays, public information systems, ticketing and baggage handling facilities and park-ride facilities.

The private partner, Ayala, will undertake the design, construction and financing of the ITS South Terminal as well as the operation and maintenance of the whole facility. The concessionaire can also undertake commercial development and collect revenues generated from the same.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Davao’s

iconic Bucana Bridge project now 73% complete

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said the construction of the 1.34-kilometer Davao River (Bucana Bridge) is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025. Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain said the overall completion rate of the project is now at 73 percent with current activities now centered on the bridge’s superstructure.

The bridge will connect the eastern and western coastal areas of Davao City, providing a major alternate route to alleviate traffic congestion in the city center and improving access to key areas across the metropolis. Sadain said the agency is intensifying construction to meet ahead of the target completion date by the end of November 2025, marking 24 months since notice to proceed was issued to contractor China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC).

“Although recent rains in Mindanao have posed some challenges, we are confident that the Bucana Bridge will be finished ahead of schedule. Our project engineers and the contractor are committed to expediting the work,” said Senior Undersecretary Sadain.

The Bucana Bridge is a fourlane, six-span extradosed bridge with advanced structural features, designed to complement the Davao City Coastal Road. It will significantly enhance mobility and connectivity within the greater Davao area. With a total contract cost ofP₱3.126 billion, the project is funded under a China Aid Grant complemented by funding from the Philippine government and incorporates a modern design that allows for navigational clearances, ensuring the smooth passage of maritime traffic along the Davao River.

PPMA wants government support amid industry decline

THE Philippine Parts Makers Association (PPMA), the sole representative of the country’s automotive parts manufacturing industry, has issued a dire warning about the sector’s significant decline.

Once a robust industry with 140 company members at its peak in 1997, the association now struggles with barely 40 active members.

In its heyday, 80 percent automotive parts were locally manufactured, with a vibrant network of local automotive assemblers supporting the industry. Today, that figure has plummeted to just 20 percent, as the sector contends with shrinking demand, global competition, and a lack of comprehensive government support.

“The decline of our industry has

serious implications, not just for the economy but also for our workforce and the future of local manufacturing,” said Ferdi Raquelsantos, President of PPMA.

“We used to be a cornerstone of the Philippine automotive industry, but now we’re fighting for survival,” he added.

Raquelsantos emphasized the need for immediate intervention, calling on the government to provide targeted support to revive the sector.

“Without a clear roadmap, financial incentives, and policies that prioritize local content, we risk losing this critical industry altogether. The Philippines has the talent, the resources, and the potential. What we need is decisive action,” Raquelsantos added.

PPMA is urging policymakers to explore measures such as: Initiating another scheme similar to the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) Program ,providing competitive incentives for Automotive Assemblers (OEM), far better than what Thailand, Indonesia or Vietnam is providing, imposing stricter local content requirements for vehicle assembly and supporting technology and skill upgrades to enhance global competitiveness. The association believes that revitalizing the automotive parts manufacturing industry is vital to boosting local manufacturing, creating jobs, and contributing to the country’s economic growth.

Martins, head of supply chain

TRENDS IN HEALTH & WELLNESS

Transformative health trends in 2025

By Angelica Villanueva

HEALTH, in general, has experienced considerable transformations and changes in the past years, fueled by the technological advancements developed every year which also have created numerous new opportunities.

Consequently, this 2025 continues to be a transformative year—from cutting-edge technological innovations to time-honored holistic practices. And these trends that are about to emerge this year are poised to redefine how individuals approach well-being.

At a recent event hosted by a leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, six key trends were highlighted as driving this transformation. These trends are set to significantly redefine both personal and societal wellness.

AI-powered health monitoring

Artificial intelligence (AI) has continued to revolutionize personal healthcare through high-tech, smart wearable devices and mobile applications. These tools have helped in enabling individuals to track the overall basic health condition including vital signs, analyze health trends, and even detect potential health concerns before they become critical.

These AI-driven healthcare solutions promote a proactive and accessible approach towards health, empowering individuals to take greater control of their well-being. As noted in an article

published by Forbes, AI-driven personalized healthcare goes well beyond precision medicine. It encompasses every aspect of a patient’s unique needs, offering a comprehensive and tailored approach to overall health. This evolution empowers individuals to take charge of their health proactively.

Telemedicine and remote health services

When the pandemic hit, with everyone being stuck at home, it became hard to ask for consultations from health experts, making telemedicine become a thing among patients. Through this kind of remote health service, it became an emerging vital component of modern healthcare, making virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health solutions possible without leaving the comfort of their homes.

Innovative platforms are leading this transformation by offering same-day medication delivery and seamless access to healthcare professionals, eliminating the need for in-person

Subtle cosmetic enhancements, like deep-plane facelifts and PRP treatments, are growing in popularity for their natural results and lower risks (AI-generated image)

The future of looking and feeling good

THIS year, beauty and wellness are all about using technology, being more sustainable, and focusing on overall well-being. The goal is to make looking good and feeling good go hand in hand.

Celebrities like Lindsay Lohan, Brad Pitt, and Donatella Versace have been getting attention for looking younger than ever, showing how beauty is changing in 2025. From quick health checks to natural cosmetic procedures, here’s a look at the top trends shaping the year.

1. Quick preventative wellness

Wellness services are becoming faster and more accessible. Innovations that use advanced technology to assess health risks in just a few minutes, making preventative care a quick and essential part of our routine. Similarly, liver health assessments offer instant results, ensuring early detection of issues.

2. Undetectable cosmetic procedures

The demand for subtle, natural cosmetic enhancements continues to rise. Procedures like the deep-plane facelift are becoming more popular for their natural results and lower risks. Additionally, PRP treatments using the patient’s own blood are gaining popularity for skin rejuvenation.

3. Mineral sunscreens

Mineral-based sunscreens are on the rise due to their eco-friendly nature and effectiveness in blocking UV rays. With cleaner ingredients and improved formulations, they are now more user-friendly and suitable for all skin types, making them a top choice in 2025.

4. Nostalgic beauty with a modern twist

In 2025, expect a return to bold beauty trends from the ‘80s, like voluminous hair and dramatic makeup. These styles will be enhanced by modern technology, offering a fusion of old-school glamour and new innovations.

5. Holistic beauty and wellness

Beauty in 2025 will be a reflection of overall wellness. As wellness retreats become more accessible, beauty routines will incorporate mental and physical well-being, with personalized skincare and fitness plans leading the way.

WATSONS, the leading health, beauty, and wellness retailer in the Philippines, is making significant strides towards a sustainable future. Its impactful initiatives and unwavering commitment to the environment and the community have garnered numerous prestigious awards and recognitions. These accolades solidify Watsons’ position as a sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) champion in the country.

At the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards 2024 (AREA), Watsons was honored with the Green Leadership Award, which highlighted its leadership in the sustainability pillars of the planet, people, and products. The retailer also received the Inspirational Brand Award at the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2024 (APEA), recognizing its positive influence across the region.

Watsons’ decade-long partnership with Operation Smile Philippines has been a source of hope for many. This collaboration was celebrated with a Silver Stevie Award at the 24th Annual Asia Pacific Stevie Awards.

Through the “Changing Lives, One Surgery at a Time” campaign, Watsons has provided life-changing cleft palate surgeries for countless children, underscoring its commitment to community health.

In the retail sector, Watsons Philippines was recognized with the Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award (Gold Accreditation) at the Retail Asia Awards 2024, celebrating its innovative approach to sustainability. Additionally, its “Go Green” campaign earned a Silver Excellence in CSR Award at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2024, further showcasing its dedication to promoting eco-conscious consumer behavior.

At the 60th Anvil Awards’ Gabi ng Parangal, Watsons received a Silver Anvil for its Sustainable Art Competition: Reimagine, Recycle for a Better Future. The initiative transformed recycled materials like paper, steel, plastic bottles, and empty sachets into art, inspiring Filipinos to make sustainable choices and be more mindful of their environmental footprint.

visits and long wait times and providing patients with a more convenient and efficient way to manage their health. Moreover, telemedicine also helps in bridging the gaps in healthcare, particularly for those individuals located in remote or underserved areas, helping them to make healthcare more accessible and patient-centered. The rise of holistic wellness

An increasing number of individuals are embracing a holistic approach to health, incorporating practices that address the mind, body, and spirit. Techniques such as acupuncture, Ayurveda, and energy healing are gaining mainstream acceptance as complementary healthcare strategies.

Holistic wellness emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, offering individuals a more balanced and integrated approach to well-being. As these practices continue to gain popularity, they are becoming essential components of modern healthcare routines.

Clean-label supplements lead the way

This year 2025, health-conscious consumers are now giving more attention on transparencies and

quality, fueling the rise of clean-label supplements. These are the products that are free from artificial additives, allergens, and filler. Clean-label supplements are also becoming the new standard of excellence quality of a brand. Ethical sourcing and high-quality ingredients further highlight a growing preference for supplements that align with personal health goals and environmental sustainability, setting a higher standard across the industry.

Gut health takes center stage Gut health is increasingly recognized as a key factor in overall well-being. This year, digestive health is taking center stage, with probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes becoming a part of an individual’s daily staples. These supplements help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, highlighting the link between digestive health and broader benefits such as improved immunity, mental well-being, and overall vitality. Collagen and beauty supplements surge in popularity

The concept of “beauty from within” is shaping the supplement market in 2025. Products like collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants are in high demand as individuals focus on their well-being. These non-invasive beauty solutions cater to the growing preference for natural vitality and long-term skin health, redefining how people approach beauty and self-care.

Watsons’ dedication to sustainability and doing good for the community earns recognition

Philippines’ senior

for sustainability

senior assistant vice president for marketing and sustainability Sharon Decapia, and group category

Zyra

and

Innovating for a Greener Tomorrow

Watsons’ commitment to sustainability goes beyond awards and recognition. At the heart of its initiatives lies the brand’s promise to “Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great.” This philosophy drives its programs, which include: Expanding Access to Sustainable Products: An ever-increasing number of brands have participated to be part of Watsons’ range of sustainable products that advocate Clean Beauty, Better Ingredients, Refill Packs, and

Better Packaging from responsibly sourced materials.

Plastic Waste Reduction Programs: To promote plastic waste reduction, initiatives like “Bring Your Own Bag” and “Recycle for Rewards” encourage customers to adopt more sustainable habits.

Community Health Campaigns: Watsons demonstrates its commitment to underserved communities through initiatives like its partnership with Operation Smile and “Alagang Pangkalusugan” medical missions.

CSR pillar

Lexie Coloma, senior marketing manager for sustainability and Sharon

for marketing and sustainability.

These efforts provide essential healthcare services and reflect the retailer’s dedication to improving the community’s health and well-being.

Empowering Young Women Through Education and Training: Through a partnership with Punlaan School, young women from marginalized communities gain access to essential education and training. The Apprenticeship Program further equips these aspiring students with the skills needed to pursue their dreams and create greater job opportunities, setting them on a path to success.

Educational Campaigns on Sustainability: Watsons actively engages its customers and employees through workshops, social media campaigns, and instore promotions to raise awareness about sustainability and the importance of adopting greener lifestyles.

Collaborating with Stakeholders: Watsons partners with organizations and suppliers who share its commitment to sustainability, further amplifying its impact on the environment and society.

At Watsons, we put our brand promise of ‘Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great’ at the heart of our sustainability efforts. Our goal is to uplift the health and well-being of communities, care for the environment, and empower shoppers with sustainable choices. We are truly ecstatic that various organizations have recognized our initiatives. This recognition fuels our passion to expand our efforts and continue creating meaningful change for our community,” said Sharon Decapia, SAVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability. As Watsons continues to innovate and expand its sustainability and CSR programs, it invites customers to be part of the journey. Visit your nearest Watsons store or shop conveniently through the Watsons App, available for download on the App Store or Google Play, to discover a wide range of health, wellness, and beauty products that align with your values. Together with its customers, Watsons is committed to building a better, greener, and more sustainable future for all.

Watsons Philippines wins Silver at the 60th Anvil Awards for its ‘Reimagine, Recycle for a Better Future’ Sustainable Art Competition. From left: PRSP vice president for internal affairs Norman Agatep; Browne Communications’ account manager Gi Tablizo and business development director Amby Molina; Gobo Creative’s account director Anna Carmina Velando; Watsons

manager

Alisandrea Coloma,

manager for trading beauty

Tinio;

PRSP internal auditor Louie Sebastian.

Watsons executives receive the Inspirational Brand Award from the Asia Pacific Excellence Awards for their steadfast commitment to sustainability. From left: Belle Pesayco,

head;

Decapia, senior assistant vice president

Holistic wellness emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health

Telemedicine offers virtual consultations and remote monitoring that made healthcare more accessible without leaving home

BINI kicks off world tour at Philippine Arena

FILIPINO girl group BINI is launching the first leg of its BINIverse World Tour 2025 at the Philippine Arena on Feb. 15. The eight-member act has begun rehearsals for the Philippine leg and promises new performances, including a live debut of their upcoming international single, “Blink Twice,” which will be released on digital streaming platforms on Feb. 13.

VIP and lower box A premium tickets have sold out, but other ticket categories remain available via pulptickets.com and ticketnet. com.ph.

Following the Philippine concert, the BINIverse World Tour will continue in Singapore, Dubai, London, and the United States. Fans, known as BLOOMs, can book roundtrip transportation to and from the venue via

The New Channel sets vision for 2025

THERE’S a new channel in town, and it is setting ambitious goals for 2025.

A recent legal win has reaffirmed TNC’s commitment to excellence and intellectual property rights. The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) ruled in favor of TNC in December 2024, affirming its trademark rights over “TNC”—a battle initiated in 2021.

“This victory allows us to move forward with renewed focus and serves as an example for businesses to stand up for their intellectual property rights,” said Apple Esplana-Manansala TNC’s president and chief executive producer. “This comes at a crucial time as we encourage brands and content creators to champion integrity and excellence online.”

TNC’s legal team, JRSantiago & Associates, stressed the importance of ethical use of intellectual property, cautioning against its misuse to undermine rightful owners.

In retrospect of TNC’s journey since its inception during the global pandemic, Manansala remains optimistic.

With a renewed focus on cultural promotion, international collaboration, and innovative projects, The New Channel (TNC) – a digital platform known for its advocacy-driven and thought-provoking content – aims to amplify Filipino ingenuity on a global scale. This year, TNC is expanding its multimedia content featuring Filipino culture, creativity, and talent. Through partnerships with thought leaders, content creators, and industry experts, both locally and internationally, the platform seeks to establish the Philippines as a hub of excellence in the digital Flagship initiatives such as Global Women Who RULE, Me and My Outstanding Mother, and Like Father, Like Son will take on new dimensions in 2025. TNC plans to integrate more face-to-face events while maintaining its robust live-streaming capabilities to reach audiences across the Philippines and In collaboration with PraXis Experiential, TNC will continue managing the Philippine franchise of The Karaoke World Championship (KWC). This initiative aims to discover emerging talents and provide opportunities for international exposure, including entertainment management contracts. TNC also plans to deepen its involvement in music festival marketing, management, and production, both locally and globally.

“As we step into 2025, TNC is committed to producing content that uplifts, promotes digital responsibility, and showcases Filipino talent on the world stage. We look forward to fostering more collaborations that will allow us to create meaningful content, not just for the Philippines but for a global audience,” she said.

For more information about TNC, check out www. thenewchannel.com, www.thenewchannel.com/highlights or search for #TNCnow on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Linked & TikTok)

Miss Supermodel Worldwide Philippines 2025 crowned

Roberta Tamondong and seasoned host Francis Bonnevie Dionisio leading the event.

Esparrago, Miss World Philippines 2022 top 20 and Head to Head Challenge winner, took home various special awards including Best Speaker, Supermodel Runway Challenge, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Evening Gown, Best in Filipiniana and Charity Award.

The Communications Research graduate from the University of the Philippines, was born in Mandaluyong City but grew up in Chicago, USA. She moved back to the Philippines to pursue her college degree. Named runners up were Mher Karizze Anne Narciso, a graduate of Industrial Engineering from the University of the Philippines Los Banos

(first); Doreen Ahuja, Asia Model Festival Face of Philippines 2024 (second); and Ailliza Patricia Juare, Miss Kaypian 2024 (third). Crowned Miss Teen Supermodel Worldwide Philippines 2025 was Angel Nocidal Laure, an 18-year-old student from Antipolo City. Esparrago will represent the country in Miss Supermodel Worldwide 2025, to be held for the first time in the Philippines in April, while Laure will compete in Miss Teen Supermodel Worldwide 2025, to be held in India. The Philippines has won the

P-pop girl group BINI is the first Filipino act to hold its concert at the Philippine Arena

BINI is known for hit tracks ‘Pantropiko’

Very Wang Nickie Wang

Charyzah Barbara Esparrago (center) will represent the Philippines in the Miss Supermodel Worldwide 2025 pageant, which will take place for the first time in the country this April

Redefining luxury beyond price tags and brand names

N2023, a Filipina teenager based in Singapore went viral on TikTok after proudly sharing her “first luxury bag” gifted by her dad — a black tote from a brand widely considered mid-range.

IWhile some users congratulated her, others left mean comments like, “Who’s gonna tell her?” implying that the brand wasn’t truly “luxury.”

Instead of letting the criticism break her spirit, the teen stood her ground and explained that growing up in a modest household made the bag a significant purchase. Her story touched many, including the bag brand itself, which later invited her to meet its founders. Eventually, she was tapped to become an official brand ambassador.

This moment sparked an important conversation: What does luxury really mean?

Traditionally, luxury has been defined by extravagance, exclusivity, superior craftsmanship, and high price points. Iconic brands like Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton exemplify the concept, offering bags that cost as much as a four-year college degree’s worth of tuition in the Philippines.

For example, the Hermès Birkin, often seen on the arms of celebrities, starts at hundreds of thousands of pesos and can go up to seven figures, depending on the materials used. There’s usually a long waitlist for buyers. Chanel’s classic flap bag has seen continuous price hikes, making it an aspirational piece that many dream of but few can afford.

To those who live in a world where these brands define luxury, anything outside this reality may not seem like “real” luxury. But is price the only measure of value?

Luxury is personal

For individuals from humble backgrounds, luxury is about aspiration. A well-made bag, no matter the brand, can symbolize achievement, hard work, or even the fulfillment of a childhood dream.

Entrepreneurs like Beautéderm founder and Rhea Anicoche-Tan understand this sentiment well. She has built a business that imports luxury items (bags and shoes from designer labels), some of which are not readily available in the Philippines. But beyond offering high-end designer pieces, she also believes that quality and accessibility should go hand in hand.

Random Talk Kate Adajar

“I was once the girl who dreamed of owning things I have now. I know what it’s like to want something beautiful but feel like it’s out of reach,” Anicoche-Tan recalled. “That’s why I want to pay it forward. I want more women to experience the joy of owning something special without having to break the bank.”

Understanding that not everyone can buy a luxury item outright, Anicoche-Tan offers flexible payment schemes like layaway options at her retail shop, A-List Avenue. She believes that treating oneself shouldn’t feel impossible. That is where a new business idea sprouted.

“Luxury shouldn’t just be for a select few,” Anicoche-Tan emphasized. “I believe every hardworking woman deserves to treat herself, to own something that makes her feel confident and empowered.”

Making luxury attainable

Anicoche-Tan’s latest venture, Audrey Luxury,

Pampanga with a grand event. The third floor of the exclusive building houses a collection of beautifully crafted bags made abroad but priced at more accessible rates. When I saw the bags firsthand, fine craftsmanship was evident—the stitching, structure, and material quality stand out. These bags, designed to last, offer young professionals and stylish “Titas” a way to own something elegant without financial strain.

As Anicoche-Tan put it, “Dreams don’t always have to be delayed. You don’t have to wait for ‘someday’ to own something you’ve always wanted. With the right options and opportunities, luxury can be within reach.”

Redefining luxury

At its core, luxury is deeply personal. It’s about what makes a person feel valued, confident, and happy. Some find luxury in a hand-stitched leather handbag, others in a nice-fitting tailored dress, and some in the simple joy of owning something they once thought impossible.

“To me, luxury goes beyond a brand name or a price tag. It’s about how something makes you feel,”AnicocheTan shared. She reiterated her advocacy, “If owning a well-made bag or a durable pair of shoes gives you joy, then that’s luxury. And I want to make that joy a reality for more people.”

The

Four

By Angelica Villanueva

Pinoy Edition host Judy Ann brought black sesame polvoron in her version of halo-halo, layering it in the center and on top of the dessert to achieve a perfect balance CEO

of sweetness and saltiness.

“It’s good, it’s really good. I love the black sesame,” Ramsay commented, making Judy Ann squeal in silence.

Meanwhile, YouTuber Ninong Ry used coconut jam as his key ingredient.

“Sh*t, that is sweet! Oh my God!” Gordon said, taking another sip as the chef suggested mixing it up.

“I can feel my arteries jamming up,” the global chef quipped, describing it as a “very sweet” halo-halo.

On the other hand, head chef Bea utilized cane sugar and the rare tibuok salt from Bohol to balance the Pinoy dessert’s sweetness.

“Oh my goodness,” the celebrity chef said.

CCA Manila culinary student Danica incorporated a kamias compote, crafted from the tangy Filipino fruit, which introduced a zesty flavor to her dish.

“It’s crunchy, it’s juicy, and it’s sour, so it gives that nice balance to the [those] I have here. I think it goes very well with all the other amazing ingredients,” Ramsay said upon tasting the dessert.

In the end, Gordon proclaimed Danica as the winner, stating that her concoction “had an edge that separated [it] in terms of the contrast and or the balance.” She also got to take home a signed uniform from the award-winning chef.

After the mini MasterChef competition, Ramsay applauded the four Filipino chefs.

“Give it up for these four amazing chefs. It’s a tough one. It’s really tough,” he stated.

“There is no low, it’s all highs, let me tell you. And I’m high as a kite now with all that sugar. Oh my goodness me,” quipped Gordon.

From left: Pinoy chefs Danica Lucero, Ninong Ry, Judy Ann Santos, and Bea Qua together with multi-awarded chef Gordon Ramsay (center)

Culinary student Danica Lucero (right) explains her version of halo-halo to celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay

named after her daughter Audrey Kirsten, was officially launched on the first day of Chinese New Year at the Beautéderm headquarters in Angeles City,

Some of the premium bags available under Audrey Luxury

More than providing high-end designer pieces, Tan advocates that quality and accessibility should be equally prioritized

A-List houses iconic and luxury brands like Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton

Beautéderm founder and CEO Rhea AnicocheTan

NICKIE

WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

IN HEALTH & WELLNESS

Why are millennials getting middle-age diseases?

By Nickie Wang

MILLENNIALS are increasingly focusing on health as they age, with many embracing fitness, mental well-being, and healthier diets. Activities like yoga and strength training, along with plant-based eating, are becoming more popular.

However, the shift is not universal, as some still struggle with stress, poor habits, and a sedentary lifestyle. Despite challenges, there’s a clear trend toward healthier choices as millennials approach middle age.

Health conditions like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, type II diabetes, cancer, and depression have traditionally been linked to older adults. However, these diseases are now being diagnosed in millennials, people born between 1981 and 1996, who are in their late 20s to early 40s.

A 2022 report from the Department of Health (DOH) found that 36 percent of Filipinos aged 20 and above are obese, 20 percent are smokers, 50-53 percent binge drink, and 40 percent are physically inactive. The Philippine Society of Oncologists also notes an increase in breast and colorectal cancer among patients under 45. Mental health issues are another growing concern. A Deloitte study revealed that 63% of millennials and 50 percent of Gen Z are experiencing burnout from work demands. A 2021 study by the University of the Philippines Population Institute showed nearly 1.5 million Filipino youths attempted suicide in 2021, more than double the number from 2013.

Dr. Juan Armando D. Diaz from Makati Medical Center attributes these health problems to a combination of factors.

“Work-related stress can lead to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of stroke or heart attack. Chronic stress also encourages bad habits like smoking, drinking, and choosing unhealthy food,” he says.

Dr. Diaz also points to technology dependence.

“Millennials spend a lot of time on their gadgets, which means less time for sleep, exercise, and fresh air—all important for health,” he adds.

However, it’s not too late for millennials to improve their health, says Dr. Diaz. “They still have many years ahead. Taking care of their health is the first step to achieving their goals.”

His advice? Start by consulting a doctor before making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise is key.

Gen Z crisis and modern ‘feels’

GENERATION Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is facing a growing crisis in both mental and physical health as they navigate a world shaped by rapid technological advancements and socio-economic changes.

“Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of cardiovascular activity three to five times a week,” Dr. Diaz recommends. Walking is simple and effective. Using a fitness tracker can help monitor progress. If pressed for time, try following online workout videos. Diet is also important.

“Eat balanced meals with fruits and vegetables, choose lean proteins like fish and chicken, cut back on processed foods, and drink plenty of water,” says Dr. Diaz.

Sleep is vital. “It promotes recovery, improves mood, and boosts brain function. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep,” he advises. Avoid screens before bed; instead, try reading or listening to soothing music.

Finally, building in-person relationships is important. “Spending time with friends boosts mood and may help prevent conditions like dementia,” Dr. Diaz says. “Sometimes, a meaningful conversation or a good laugh is the best medicine.”

A US Surgeon General recently highlighted a global well-being survey revealing that individuals aged 15 to 24 are less happy than older generations. In an article featured in DailyMail, the doctor noted that Gen Z is experiencing a form of “early mid-life crisis,” partly attributed to their constant exposure to social media.

So, what “feels” are affecting this generation?

Mental health struggles Anxiety, depression, and stress are widespread among Gen Z. Social media’s negative impact—such as cyberbullying and constant comparisons to unrealistic online portrayals—contributes to feelings of inadequacy. Additionally, the pressure to succeed academically, coupled with uncertainty about the sociopolitical landscape, fuels stress, leading to burnout and heightened anxiety.

Physical health issues

Gen Z’s increasingly sedentary lifestyles and poor eating habits are contributing to higher obesity rates and related health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Excessive screen time and reduced physical activity exacerbate these health concerns.

Substance abuse and digital addiction

Substance abuse, including the misuse of prescription medications and recreational drugs, is on the rise. Digital addiction, caused by excessive use of smartphones, social media, and video games, has also been linked to sleep deprivation and physical health issues.

Healthcare access barriers

Many Gen Z individuals face challenges in accessing affordable healthcare. Gaps in insurance coverage, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health, often prevent them from seeking the care they need.

Environmental and societal concerns

Ongoing issues like climate change, economic instability, and social justice concerns are contributing to increased anxiety among Gen Z. The COVID-19 pandemic has further disrupted their lives, exacerbating mental health struggles.

Addressing the crisis

Experts emphasize the need for greater mental health support, encouragement of healthier lifestyles, and improved access to healthcare. Prevention programs focused on substance abuse and efforts to curb screen time are also critical.

The health concerns of Generation Z are complex, and shaped by a rapidly changing world. A coordinated effort to address these challenges is essential for supporting their well-being and future resilience.