A FILIPINO police officer was among the people killed in a mid-air crash in Washington between a US commercial jet and a military helicopter, Philippine police said Friday.
The Wednesday night disaster caused both aircraft to tumble into the icy Potomac River, killing 67 passengers and crew.
"The Philippine National Police mourns the tragic loss of Police Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed, Chief of the Supply Management Division, who was among those on board the American Airlines flight that collided mid-air with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport," an official statement said.
resurrecting probe into PCSO official's
‘Wage hike a balancing act’
By Rio N. Araja
TBy Charles Dantes, Maricel Cruz and Darwin Amojelar
PRESIDENT
HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government must strike a balance between increasing the purchasing power of workers amid inflationary pressures and protecting small businesses that will be affected by the proposed P200 daily wage increase.
"We will try to resolve this because as you know it’s very clear that prices of goods are still rising. Inflation is still here. We haven't been able to curb it completely,” he said.
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.
"(But) there are also many sides to this question. Employers are worried, especially the small employers,
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.
Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-
Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry
THE 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.
By Othel V. Campos and Rachelle Tonelada
THE National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) has approved the proposal of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to declare a food emergency, according to Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
He said yesterday that the DA intends to declare a food security emergency on February 4 to address the soaring prices of rice.
Once declared, the government will release stocks from the National Food Authority (NFA) at a subsidized price of P36 per kilogram, to be sold
By Darwin Amojelar
was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members. cious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story. “Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added.
“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
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.”
of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.
IMPEACH RALLY. Members of the Akbayan Youth and Student Council Alliance of the Philippines participate yesterday's rally to push for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. Manny Palmero
The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.
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.
to local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila.
“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.
“Releasing 300,000 metric tons of rice to the market within six months will soften market prices. We hope this will be the start of a more stable pricing for rice,” Tiu-Laurel explained.
Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic
The declaration would make NFA rice available to consumers at P38 per kilogram in wet markets, it was disclosed.
The DA has pushed for this measure to help stem the rising retail prices of rice, which is a staple in the Filipino diet.
Tiu Laurel expressed optimism
By Rex Espiritu
Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announce ment by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarbor ough Shoal, in the West Philip pine Sea (WPS). China reportedly made the an nouncement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Co operative 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 -
However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions about Yang recklessly.
By Maricel V. Cruz
SEVERAL thousand protesters assembled at the EDSA People Power Monument on Friday to urge the House of Representatives to proceed with the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. Led by the Akbayan Party-list Group, the protesters called out law
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.
makers for their apparent inaction on the three impeachment complaints against Duterte. Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña appealed
“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue
The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.
During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Marcos said on Friday raised concerns about long-term infiltration by foreign agents after it was discovered that some of the suspected Chinese
Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal
cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Beijing’s statement was meant only
“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
spies arrested in Palawan had been living in the Phil ippines for years, even marrying Filipinas. "Some have
By Charles Dantes
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 of a criminal syndicate allegedly led by fugitive Michael Yang, then economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs
PBBM aims for PFP election sweep
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday vouched for the competence and integrity of the Partido Federal ng Pilipino (PFP) candidates and hoped for a "100 percent" victory in the midterm elections.
“That is how high the quality of PFP members and candidates is,” Marcos said during the PFP Leaders' Conver-
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for example, sari-sari stores, parlors, beauty parlors, and the like, the smaller ones. If the minimum wage is increased, they will have to reduce their employees because their money will still be the same. They will not have more money to pay salaries," the President added.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Friday said inflation for January 2025 is projected to be between 2.5 and 3.3 percent, well within the government’s target of 2 percent to 4 percent.
“Upward price pressures in January stem from the rise in petroleum prices, in-
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that the market will see a slight drop in rice prices, which currently stand at around P58 per kilo, with hopes of reducing them to P55 by February 5, P52 by February 15, and down to P49 by March 1.
The DA's push for the emergency declaration is authorized under the amended Rice Tariffication Law, which allows for such actions in response to a shortage or extraordinary increase in prices.
The rice release is also intended to decongest the NFA's warehouses in preparation for the February harvest.
As this developed, nine out of ten Filipinos said they would vote for candidates in the 2025 midterm elections who will ensure food security and create more job opportunities, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed.
The survey, commissioned by Stratbase Consultancy, showed that today’s voters want leaders who advocate and prioritize top concerns including job creation, food security, healthcare, education, and support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
“Achieving food security is a reachable goal and it is imperative that we
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In an interview, Marcos was asked about Rodriguez's remarks during a recent senatorial debate, in which he urged the president to take the test.
Marcos responded, "No, no. Why should I do that? What does public trust have to do with a follicle test? Please. There's no connection to what he's saying."
Rodriguez, who previously served as Marcos' executive secretary, cited the constitutional principle that public office is a public trust in making his
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been here a long time and have married Filipinas. They are what we call "sleepers," Mr. Marcos said, referring to operatives who remain inactive for years before engaging in covert activities.
He emphasized the importance of questioning the suspects to uncover potential broader networks.
"If we talk to them, they might reveal if there are others we need to investigate and have them explain their activities," he said.
On Thursday, the National Bureau of Investigation and the Armed Forces of the Philippines presented five Chinese nationals who were nabbed for suspected intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations in the country.
Authorities seized from the suspects some military-grade and highresolution video cameras disguised to look like civilian security closed-circuit television (CCTV).
While Mr. Marcos confirmed the arrests, he asserted that the Philippine government has no official contact with Beijing regarding the case.
"The investigative services are still developing more information to determine exactly what these five individuals have been doing while in the Philippines," he said.
The arrest follows reports that the
gence Summit at The Manila Hotel.
“We have gathered, I believe, the best people and the most effective pub-
creased prices of major food items owing to the lingering effects of recent weather disturbances, as well as the annual adjustments in water rates and sin taxes,” the BSP said.
Inflation rose to 2.9 percent in December, higher than the 2.5 percent recorded in November, due mainly to higher prices of housing and energy.
President Marcos likewise emphasized that the government’s tripartite wage board is responsible for determining wage adjustments and must be considered in the discussion.
"We still have to study it further to see how these (wage board and legislated wage hike) will work together," he said.
"The tripartite body was [the] creation of Congress. They were the ones
keep a laser-like focus on this issue because it affects every Filipino and seeps into each aspect of our nation’s life,” Stratbase Institute President Victor Manhit said.
“Job security, on the other hand, must be strengthened to ensure stability for workers. At the same time, Filipino talent remains underutilized due to labor market constraints. Unlocking the full potential of our workforce is essential for driving economic progress and fostering inclusive growth,” he further explained.
An earlier SWS report indicated that many Filipinos are worried about hunger and inflation, causing them to rate the government’s efforts to mitigate hunger as “moderate,” while its performance in controlling the prices of basic goods is “poor.”
The survey was conducted from January 17 to 20, 2025 with 1,800 respondents.
Earlier, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation went up by 2.9 percent in December 2024, higher than the 2.5 percent increase in November.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) warned that prices could rise even more in 2025 due to possible increases in transport fares and electricity rates.
suggestion.
He has been pushing for the president to take the test since 2024, in an effort to dispel rumors and speculations about the president's alleged drug use.
However, Marcos questioned Rodriguez's credibility, pointing out his past role in the administration.
"He's always had that weakness even when he was still working for me," the president said. "If he believed in what he's saying, why did he work for me?"
Rodriguez resigned as executive secretary in 2022, amid controversies surrounding his role in the administration.
suspects were using spy cameras to target key military installations, including sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States.
"That’s why we arrested them, because of course, we are very disturbed by anyone conducting such espionage operations against our military and the services that we are trying to provide the people," the President said.
Meanwhile, the quick response by intelligence services that resulted in the five alleged Chinese spies’ arrest highlighted the government's commitment to protecting the country, the National Security Council (NSC) said on Friday.
In a statement, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said the successful operations underscore the need for continued vigilance and proactive counterintelligence measures to disrupt attempts at espionage.
"The government remains committed to enforcing the law and ensuring that those found engaging in espionage and intelligence operations are held accountable. We assure the public that our security and intelligence units will continue to strengthen counterintelligence and monitoring efforts to strengthen our national security," Año said.
Similarly the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it is ready to support agencies investigating the Chinese nationals arrested for alleged espionage activities.
lic servants in the Philippines under our umbrella ngayon sa PFP at sa buong alyansa (in the PFP and the whole alliance),” he added. At least three of the PFP’s senatorial candidates graced the summit, including Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, former Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., and former senator Manny Pacquiao.
who formed it, wrote the law and established that kind of entity. That was their job to determine what should be the minimum wage," Mr. Marcos added.
Mr. Marcos said the wage hike bill, recently approved by the House Committee on Labor, requires further study due to its potential economic impact, particularly on MSMEs.
"There's no problem with corporates -- those big corporations, they can handle it. No matter what increase you put on them, they can handle it. But the small ones, that's what others are worried about,” Mr. Marcos said.
“But I think there is a way to increase that but we have to resolve the legal issues, we have to resolve the economic
Marcos, also national chairperson of the PFP, convened all its 1,300 party members, including incumbent and aspiring government officials from Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and other key regions to engage in meaningful discussions. He said the convergence summit was held to help PFP members solidify their plans for the future. He also urged the PFP members to
issues. So, it still deserves a great deal of study," the President said.
Senator Joel Villanueva, chairman of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resource Development, on Friday expressed hoped that Mr. Marcos will certify the wage hike bill as urgent, adding that economic growth must translate into tangible benefits for the workforce.
The chairperson of the House labor panel, for his part, urged Filipinos to stand united in pushing for the immediate passage of the measure.
"The wage hike bill is a muchneeded measure that could bring relief to millions of minimum wage workers across the whole country" Rizal Rep.
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to the House leadership to immediately act on the complaints, all of which were lodged in December 2024.
Cendaña, the endorser of the first complaint, warned that every day of inaction emboldens the Vice President to cling to impunity and evade accountability.
“The time has come to take decisive action and finally impeach the Vice President. While she remains in public office, we are allowing plunder to continue in our government,” he said in a mixture of Filipino and English.
The Akbayan lawmaker urged House members to prioritize the nation’s interests over political calculations.
"We must uphold our constitutional mandate to revoke the powers of abusive government officials,” Cendaña said.
He commended protesters who have stood their ground on Duterte’s impeachment even as some have been swayed by political pressure and become cool with her ouster.
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Manila was notified that a body carrying Malabed's passport was recovered from the Potomac, police spokesman Colonel Randulf Tuano told reporters.
Malabed's widow is set to fly to the United States to formally identify and claim the remains, Tuano added.
Malabed and two other officers had flown to the United States to test personnel vests that the Philippine police planned to purchase.
Malabed then headed onwards alone intending "to pay a courtesy call" to the police attache of the Philippine embassy in Washington.
Meanwhile, investigators recovered the black boxes from the passenger plane, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The NTSB said it had recovered
lead with integrity, accountability, and strong commitment to public service.
“But the real reason why we brought together all those who understand our desire for unity is so that everyone who will help us in making the Philippines better is with us and we have our own plan, we have a goal and a goal to follow for our country ,” he said. With Charles Dantes
Fidel Nograles said. The rise in inflation in December underlines the urgency of the legislated wage hike to help Filipino families to cope with the higher cost of living, Nograles added. Moving forward, the BSP said the Monetary Board will continue to take a measured approach in ensuring price stability conducive to balanced and sustainable growth of the economy and employment. The Monetary Board is scheduled to hold its first meeting for the year on February 13. The House panel approval came after Speaker Martin Romualdez initiated a meeting Tuesday night with labor groups to discuss their call for higher wages.
Authorities nab about 100 in Makati scam hub
PHILIPPINE authorities arrested around 100 people on Friday in a raid on a suspected online scam farm in Manila they said extorted victims.
The raid in the Makati financial district was part of a crackdown against online crime operators that often act under the guise of gaming firms.
Agents from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the National Bureau of Investigation, armed with assault rifles, surrounded two offices of a lending agency and arrested the suspects as they worked side-by-side at computers.
The party-list lawmaker also warned against attempts by the Duterte camp to hijack public discourse and divert attention from the impeachment complaints.
“We congratulate all Filipinos who mobilized today to call for Sara Duterte’s removal and to stand against corruption. But let us not be complacent. Let us remain vigilant against the Dutertes’ attempts to twist the narrative and undermine the call for justice and accountability,” Cendaña said.
Duterte faces three impeachment complaints over alleged misconduct and misuse of millions of dollars in government funds, but legislators have yet to tackle them just days before Congress adjourns next week ahead of the May midterm elections.
The 46-year-old vice president, who is estranged from President Marcos but remains his constitutional successor in case he is unable to perform his duties, has denied the allegations.
Mr. Marcos himself has urged Congress not to pursue Duterte's impeachment, calling it a "storm in a teacup" that would distract the legislature from its primary responsibilities. With AFP
the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the Bombardier jet.
"The recorders are at the NTSB labs for evaluation," the agency said in a statement to Agence France Presse (AFP).
According to a New York Times report, staffing was thin in the control tower at Reagan National Airport, where the airliner was about to land when the collision occurred.
One controller, rather than the usual two, was handling both plane and helicopter traffic, the Times quoted a preliminary Federal Aviation Administration report as saying.
A fireball erupted in the night sky and both aircraft tumbled into the icy Potomac, leaving rescue crews with the grim, difficult task of searching for bodies in the dark and cold.
Over 40 bodies had been recovered as of Thursday evening, according to US media reports. AFP
The suspects, many of them young Filipinos, allegedly sought out victims via TikTok and other social media, offering collateral-free loans of up to 25,000 pesos ($428).
Borrowers were charged 35 percent weekly interest and those who fell behind on payments were harassed, humiliated and threatened with having their personal information spread online, PAOCC director Gilberto Cruz told reporters at the scene.
"Some of those they harassed developed mental problems, others fell into depression, and there have even been some suicide incidents that occurred because of the harassment perpetrated by these people," Cruz said.
The suspects could be charged with fraud and other violations under the country's cybercrime laws, he added.
The raided company, Wewill Tech Corp., required victims to provide personal information and family photographs, which the scammers then used for threats, according to Cruz.
Some victims of similar scams have reported having coffins and funeral wreaths delivered to their homes, he said.
Authorities are checking the nationality of the owners, Cruz said, adding that they had arrested Chinese suspects running similar operations in the past.
The scam farm owners are suspected to be remnants of online gaming operators that were banned under orders of President Ferdinand Marcos last year, he said.
"Most of their keyboard workers are Filipino" and communicated with victims in the local language, Cruz told reporters.
"What is frightening here is it is Filipinos who are harassing and defrauding their fellow Filipinos," he said.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has tagged Southeast Asia as "ground zero" of global scamming operations that the authorities say are run mainly by Chineseorigin crime organisations. AFP
SCAM FARM. Government agents guard employees of a suspected online scam farm who remain at their work stations folllowing a raid at their Makati office. Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC)
DOE sees mixed movements of petroleum prices
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Department of Energy (DOE) expects mixed movements in the prices of petroleum products next week with gasoline posting an increase of as much as P0.70 per liter while diesel and kerosene are expected have a price rollback.
Meanwhile, Petron Corp. announced a P0.70 per kilo increase in liquefied petroleum gas effective 12:01 a.m. today to reflect the higher international contract price of LPG for the month of February.
DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) director Rodela Romero said the forecast was based on a four-day trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), the benchmark pricing for oil importers, in which two days were holidays.
“We expect a mixed movement in the prices of petroleum products by next week. Estimated adjustments are as follows: gasoline - increase of P0.40 to P0.70 per liter, diesel decrease of P1.30 to P1.60 per liter and kerosene -decrease of P0.85 to P1 per liter,” Romero said.
Romero said the mixed price movement can be attributed to United States President Donald Trump’s call for lower oil prices and higher output in the US and other major suppliers including the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), build-up of US inventory; and uncertainty over potential US tariffs on Canada and Mexico.
“But the OPEC+ Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee that oversees the group’s crude production agreement will meet on Feb. 3 to look into the oil market situation again,” Romero said.
PCG drives away CCG vessel in WPS
By Rex Espiritu
THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported it successfully drove away a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel from the waters off Zambales province.
Meanwhile, the National Security Council (NSC) said the Philippine government would not ask for Beijing’s approval on resupply missions for troops stationed in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In a statement, PCG spokesman for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said the PCG ship BRP Teresa Magbanua
shooed away the CCG vessel from 8590 nautical miles to 100-105 nautical miles off the Zambales coast.
“BRP Teresa Magbanua, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully pushing the CCG vessel CCG-3304 further away from the coast of Zambales, now estimated to be at a distance of
100-105 nautical miles,” Tarriela said.
He said the CCG insisted it was operating with China’s maritime territory, essentially dismissing the 2016 Arbitral ruling in favor of the Philippines.
“The BRP Teresa Magbanua has persistently emphasized that the Chinese vessel lacks legal authority and is, in fact, violating the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral award,” Tarriela said.
Aside from CCG 3304, the PCG was also closely watching three more Chinese vessels in the area, such as CCG 3502 and 3103,
as well as the so-called “monster ship”
“The PCG remains unwavering in its commitment to uphold President Marcos' directives, diligently working to prevent CCG from establishing an illegal presence and engaging in coercive actions in the West Philippine Sea, all while ensuring that tensions do not escalate,” Tarriela said.
NSC spokesman assistant director general Jonathan Malaya belied a claim by a Chinese official, saying the Philippines never sought permission from Beijing for its resupply missions at Ayungin (Second Thomas) in WPS.
IN BRIEF
DIPLOMATIC DELEGATION. Isabela Gov. Rodolfo Albano III leads the welcoming party for a large group of diplomatic delegation that visited his province in time for the holding of the Bambanti Festival 2025. Jessica M. Bacud
Comelec to provide voter information sheets by April
By Vito Barcelo
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday announced that as a guide for the 2025 elections, every registered Filipino voter will receive a voter information sheet (VIS).
At the same time, Comelec chairman George Erwin Garcia reiterated his call for the appointment of “insiders” to replace two retiring poll commissioners this February.
“We will commit that the Comelec will be able to distribute the 68,421,000 voter informa-
Solon seeks inquiry on Basilan incident
By Maricel V. Cruz
tion sheets nationwide,” Garcia said .
The VIS, according to Garcia, is a four-page translated guide that includes the voter's name, the polling place number and address, voting instructions, and other reminders. The names of the local and national candidates are on the document.
Garcia noted that the VIS can serve as a guideline for a more efficient voting process for voters. He emphasized the advantage of having a pre-prepared list of candidates' names for the voter’s reference during the election.
BASILAN Rep. Mujiv Hataman is seeking a congressional inquiry into the recent armed encounter between government forces and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in his province, stressing the need to prevent further violence and ensure that the peace process remains intact.
Hataman filed House Resolution 2206 directing the appropriate House committee to investigate the Jan. 22 clash in Barangay Lower Cabengbeng, Sumisip, Basilan, which resulted in the deaths of Pfc. Mark Barat and Cpl. Orland James Diamel of the Army and injuries to several others.
“Why did this happen again?” asked Hataman, a former governor of the now-defunct Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The Comelec chief also said they will not remove the online precinct finders.
However, he said it is better if the voters have a physical copy of the information on their polling precincts.
The local Comelec officers were also instructed that no barangay officials or local government representatives are permitted to distribute the VIS to voters.
Garcia also said that the Comelec will commence printing the VIS on Sunday, with the process extending from February to March.
Advocate thanks WHO for keeping aids to PH
BORACAY Is.—A health advocate here who has tested positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) thanked the World Health Organization (WHO) for sustaining its programs despite the recent withdrawal of the United States of America.
Newly elected US President Donald Trump has announced America’s withdrawal from the WHO because of alleged mishandling of COVID 19 cases and other health issues. Because of this withdrawal, Washington is stopping its funding assistance to WHO related programs.
Devine Pogoy, president of Positibong Laso based here said she is thankful that the WHO through the Department of Health continued the antiretroviral treatment program in the country.
The Positibong Laso is a group of HIV advocates who support and empower every people living with HIV in Aklan. Jun Aguirre
Diplomatic delegation pays Isabela a visit
ILAGAN City—In conjunction with the 2025 Bambanti Festival, Isabela province welcomed a delegation of ambassadors from 24 countries for a two-day familiarization tour here (Jan. 24–25).
The diplomatic group consisted of two charges de affaires, one deputy chief of mission, and 21 ambassadors. Isabela Gov. Rodolfo Albano III and his wife Mylene Garcia who is the Philippine envoy to Japan, entertained the visitors at the Balai Guesthouse here.
Albano emphasized the importance of the visit, saying it was the start of a continuing diplomatic relations. Jessica M. Bacud
41 ‘special’ recruits join Philippine Navy
A TOTAL of 41 new recruits took oath as the newest members of the Philippine Navy.
The rookies called “special enlistees,” were selected for their exceptional qualifications and skills to address the immediate needs of the Navy.
Unlike regular recruits, Special Enlistees are not required to undergo a pre-entry course before enlistment but must complete it within their first three years of service.
This ensures they are fully prepared to contribute to the Navy’s mission while utilizing their expertise to serve the nation.
During the ceremony, Captain Ariel S Palisoc, Commander, Navy Personnel Management Center reminded the enlistees that this moment marks the beginning of their journey and urged them to embrace it with dedication and passion for service. Rex Espiritu
2. I have caused the preparation of the foregoing complaint
Motor No. QG16005519 Plate No.
4. The above-described personal property is wrongfully detained by defendants who defaulted in complying with the terms and conditions of the Promissory Note and Chattel Mortgage issued in favor of plaintiff BANKCOM that would defeat its mortgage lien thereon;
5. The actual value of subject personal property is THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (P300,000.00).
6. Plaintiff BANKCOM is ready, able and willing to file a bond double value of said personal property for the prosecution of this action, the return thereof to defendants if it is so adjudged, and for the payment to them of such sum as may be recovered against plaintiff in this case, and the cost of the action.
I am executing this affidavit alleging the foregoing to be true and correct of my own personal knowledge and/or based on authentic records. (Sgd.) MARK FRANCIS ANGELO M. YUHMO SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me on NOV 28 2016 at PASIG CITY, affiant being personally present and exhibiting to me his SSS 34-0331380-9 as valid proof of identity.
Doc. No. 27 Page No. 7 Book No. XL Series of 2016 VERIFICATION CERTIFICATION We, JOSEPH C. JUSTINIANO and ADRIAN MANUEL P. SISON, both of legal age, both of legal age, Filipino citizen and with postal address at the San Miguel Properties Centre, No. 7 St. Francis Street, Mandaluyong City, depose and state under oath:
1. The we are the Head of Consumer Group and Legal Officer, Consumer Group, respectively, of BANK OF COMMERCE;
2. That we are authorized and have caused the preparation of the foregoing complaint pursuant to the authority granted by plaintiff BANKCOM under its Secretary’s Certificate and Special Power of Attorney and all the allegations contained therein are true and correct of my personal knowledge and/or based on authentic records;
3. Plaintiff BANKCOM has not commenced any other action or proceeding, involving the same issues in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency; to the best of our knowledge, no such action or proceeding is pending in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency; and should we hereafter learn that a similar action or proceeding has been filed or is pending before the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency, undertake to report that fact within five (5) days therefrom to the court or agency wherein the original pleading and sworn certification contemplated herein have been filed.
(Sgd.) JOSEPH C. JUSTINIANO (Sgd.) ADRIAN MANUEL P. SISON SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me on NOV 28 2016 at PASIG CITY, affiants being personally present and exhibiting to me their Passport No. EB 7946692 and Driver’s License No. N04-00-461920.
Poll resched to allow BTA to amend local gov’t code
By Rex Espiritu
ment the commitments under the Bangsamoro peace agreement.
Doc. No. 28 Page No. 7 Book No. XL Series of 2016. A copy of said Promissory Note is hereto attached as Annex A. 2
THE proposed five-month postponement of the elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will allow the interim BARMM government to amend key legislation following the exclusion of Sulu from the area, presidential peace adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said.
Among the measures that need to be amended to align with the Supreme Court ruling removing Sulu from BARMM are the autonomous region’s Electoral Code and Local Government Code, he added.
“Instituting these amendments will take time. This is the reason why giving the
SC
upholds
Bangsamoro government more time by virtue of the BARMM election’s postponement is crucial. We have to ensure that all legal issues are addressed,” he said.
Galvez said Senate Bill No. 2942, which resets the BARMM polls to October 13, 2025, will also give the national and regional governments more time to imple -
parental, custody rights of OFWs over their kids
By Pot Chavez
THE Supreme Court ruled that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) may still exercise parental authority and even sole custody over their children despite being assigned abroad.
In a decision written by Associate Justice Jhosep Lopez, the High Court’s Second Division awarded an OFW sole custody of her minor children.
The ruling also granted provisional custody to the children’s grandmother who lives with them in the Philippines.
The SC upheld an earlier decision of
the Court of Appeals, which stated that the mother should not be considered an “absent” parent simply because she is an OFW. Being an OFW does not strip a parent of their right to exercise parental authority or to have sole custody of their children, the court said.
In 2017, the mother separated from the children’s father after four years of marriage. They agreed to share joint custody of their children, provided that the father would give financial support.
The mother later moved to France for work, leaving the children in the father’s care.
Bulacan court convicts man for Animal Welfare violation
A BULACAN resident was found guilty of violating the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 when he failed to bring a dog he had adopted to a veterinarian despite knowing his pet was sick.
In an 11-page decision released in late December, Judge Edmond Lorenzo of the Municipal Trial Court of Santa Maria, Bulacan found Mark Conrad Nepomuceno guilty beyond reasonable doubt for the neglect of “Cash,” a dog earlier rescued by the non-government organization Save Animals of Love and Light (Save ALL). Nepomuceno was fined P50,000 with
subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency and failure to pay the fine.
The decision said Nepomuceno “failed to exercise reasonable steps to prevent death of the dog named Cash.”
“It was not enough for him to say that he was busy with his work which has allowed Cash to suffer his death. For these reasons, the prosecution was able to establish beyond reasonable doubt that the accused was neglectful of this dog named Cash. Consequently, accused conviction follows as a consequence,” the court said. Save ALL welcomed the decision.
The President has certified the measure as urgent, which means the Senate is now allowed to approve it on third and final reading on the same day.
The Supreme Court ruling left seven seats in the Bangsamoro Parliament vacant. Galvez said the President’s move to certify as urgent the Senate bill was anchored on his steadfast commitment to push forward, sustain, and build on the gains of the Bangsamoro peace process.
“Time and again, President Marcos has declared that the peace process in the Bangsamoro is the cornerstone of his administration’s peace agenda. He has not wavered in his commitment,” Galvez said.
IN BRIEF
12-story school building to soon rise in Cebu City
CEBU CITY—A public school building with 12 levels will soon be constructed at the grounds of Don Vicente Rama Memorial National High School (DVRMNHS) in Barangay Basak, San Nicolas, Cebu City. Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, and Cebu City first district Rep. Edu Rama led the groundbreaking ceremony for the new educational facility on Thursday, January 30, 2025. The medium-rise school building has a construction budget of P700-million. It will have 42 classrooms and nine workshop rooms dedicated to junior and senior high school students of Cebu City south district. It will also have an elevator and restroom facilities on every floor. Minerva Newman
Customs intel group named best performing field station
THE Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) at the Manila International Container Port was recognized as the Best Performing Field Station Office after seizing P60.5 billion worth of contraband and antisocial goods in 2024.
The CIIS-MICP recorded the highest estimated value of seizures and apprehensions in several categories, including illegal drugs (valued at P876 million), counterfeit goods (P20.282 billion), vehicles and vessels (P3.280 billion), agricultural products (valued at P938 million), cigarettes, tobacco, and vape products (P3.729 billion), as well as various other commodities (P32.058 billion).
The team, led by Chief Intelligence Officer Alvin Enciso, played a crucial role in seizing P635 million worth of illegal drugs that were hidden inside balikbayan boxes. Joel E. Zurbano
Tolentino seeks to make power, internet VAT-exempt FILIPINO workers and students may soon see relief from high utility costs as Senator Francis Tolentino filed Senate Bill 2970 to exempt electricity and internet services from the 12 percent value-added tax.
“As more educational institutions transition to online platforms and businesses adopt flexible work arrangements, affordable internet access becomes even more vital,” Tolentino said in his bill.
“The important role of electricity and the internet in our daily lives, particularly in education and remote work cannot be overstated,” he added.
The senator introduced the bill on Thursday, citing the country’s high electricity costs, which are among the steepest in Southeast Asia. Ram Superable
BACKBREAKING JOB. Farmers plant rice in Alicia town in Isabela province. Revoli Cortez
OPINION
‘Suntok sa buwan’ and other audacities
“SUNTOK sa buwan” is a term used to describe going for the impossible. Dreaming of studying at a school with extremely high qualifying standards. Applying at a company or institution known for stringent hiring policies. Traveling to a country one can only dream of visiting. Buying a lottery ticket hoping to win tens of millions of pesos.
Seeing one’s country governed efficiently, competently, and honestly by genuine public servants on both the national and local levels.
In three months, the Philippines would go to the polls again. This early, we already have a sense of the many sources of frustration that this democratic exercise promises to bring.
Early surveys to gauge which senatorial candidates would win if elections were held today are depressing. Those who will likely make it are familiar names and faces, who have gained prominence because of their last names or their earlier foray into show business, or who have styled themselves as champions of some cause by virtue of mere rhetoric.
Looking at the list of “winnable” names is enough to challenge the hopes even of indefatigable optimists. How dare some candidates, too, be the first to break the spirit of the law against premature campaigning. We see their faces and names prominently plastered on some walls, the sides of overpasses, even public transportation! While the word “vote” is not on those posters, the intent is clear and unmistakable. And yet these are the ones who are asking us to vote for them, promising to uphold the law. Conversely, those who have the sufficient background, experience, and fortitude to perform the role they are aspiring to in earnest, likely won’t stand a chance. They probably know it.
So why are they still even running, anyway?
The younger set might have a term for this – “delulu.” But is it an illusion, and are the optimistic or hopeful just delusional, really? I prefer to think it is an act of defiance against resignation, against “it is what it is.”
It is an expression of audacity, that trying is more important than winning and that passive acceptance is the ultimate defeat.
—“—
Is good governance just for the delulu?
Voters, thus, should take the cue.
There is no such thing as a wasted vote. No such notion as going for the lesser evil. By all means demand a platform and require candidates to answer difficult questions. Reject the extremely popular but utterly incompetent. Heed the endorsement not of anyone but our conscience. And choose only the names of those who genuinely deserve to be elected.
It’s easy to get tired of repeated defeats to the popular, to the well-connected, to the entertaining. It could get tedious to more than feel-good motherhood statements. But outside of the big names we have become used to, there are names on our list of choices that do have something to bring to the table: actual expertise and experience, actual proven integrity, actual scruples.
Voters should go for what appears impossible, too.
And perhaps the next time, or the time after that, other possibilities –those borne out of defiance, yes, but ultimately, hope – will become likelier, until they become real. And then we can move on to the next impossibility.
adellechua@gmail.com
DeepSeek’s deeper meaning
AMERICANS call it the new “Sputnik moment,” when the US realized a rival nation has overtaken them in overall development reflected in the competitor nation’s technological advancement.
It, in short, reminds America of the moment on Oct. 4, 1957 when the Soviet Union successfully launched and retrieved Sputnik I into earth orbit and back, followed a month later on Nov. 3, 1957 sending the dog Laika into earth orbit.
“DeepSeek” is a new Chinese artificial intelligence company that developed a new open-source large language model (LLLMs) that developed and introduced its DeepSeekR1 model that the global AI market found to be comparable, if not superior in many aspects, to the top rated Western model ChatGPT-4- and o1 of US company OpenAI (a company 49 percent owned by Microsoft, actually not open source, not free, not transparent and not for public service but for profit).
On Jan. 20, 2025 DeepSeek released its first free chatbot app, and by Jan. 27, the DeepSeek-R1 has surpassed ChatGPT as the most-downloaded free app on the App Store in the US.
The DeepSeek model is free to download but offers an “API endpoint” (application programming interface – a software intermediary that allows two applications to talk to each other, $0.55/million input) at an “extremely cheap” cost, while using OpenAI’s ChatGPT costs up to $60.
I don’t understand all the jargon and costs myself but millions of US users suddenly shifted to using DeepSeek R1, sending market shivers
down the spines of US AI investors in American tech and related behemoths NVIDIA, META, Alphabet (of Google), Marvell, Broadcom, Micron and TSMC, Oracle, Vertiv, Constellation, NuScale, all shedding over $1-trillion in value in a day or two.
Although the stock values have stabilized, the tech and AI sector will no longer be the same after this.
The telling factors that shifted the tech investors’ psychology is DeepSeek’s $ 6-million 1/100th cost in training its AI model that turned out to be superior in many ways to what the West had to offer that cost tens to hundreds of billions of dollars to achieve.
DeepSeek showed the US chips sanctions failed to deter the inventiveness of China
Second is the Open Source character of DeepSeek versus the capitalist/ proprietary character of the Western tech and AI companies and AI services offered.
Finally, DeepSeek showed the US chips sanctions failed to deter the inventiveness of China.
China’s DeepSeek now allows the poorest of the poor in the world to enjoy the technological benefits of AI, and it now allows innovators in all the poor countries to join in the glorious adventure of innovation.
To me, it is the socialism of China that engenders this “Open Source” spirit, the collective power of the so -
This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon of factory setting wherein there is a conveyor belt filled with babies at one level. At another level is another conveyor belt with viruses. These conveyor belts are connected to a power source that says “lack of sexual eduaction.”
EDITORIAL
Waiting for China’s move
THE offer to remove a US missile system from the Philippines has been made by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., provided Beijing, which has been bullying Manila even within the latter’s exclusive economic zone, stopped its “aggressive and coercive behavior” in the South China Sea.
The Typhon mid-range missile system in northern Philippines was installed last summer by the US Army to support what Washington and Manila, both defense treaty allies since Aug. 30, 1951, correctly described as training for joint combat readiness.
The recent clashes in the West Philippine Sea have raised concerns the US military could be drawn into a war with China.
The Philippine military said this week another of its platoons would be trained on using the Typhon system this month ahead of annual joint drills with its major ally the United States.
President Marcos’ words were clear, made this week to reporters in Cebu, “Let’s make a deal with China: Stop claiming our territory, stop harassing our fishermen and let them have a living, stop
cialist governance system that puts people ahead of profits that enables China to dedicate resources to prioritized projects that beat sanctions and obstructions.
The cold warriors and critics of DeepSeek in the West in reaction launched cyber attacks on DeepSeek, and targeted it with various unfounded accusations. I watched the reply to the negative campaign from Deirdre Bosa, CNBC anchor of its tech-focused talk show “TechCheck” demolish the slanderous accusations and believe it is appropriate to share here for the enlightenment of the global audience following the DeepSeek vs. Western critics’ saga: “.. accusing DeepSeek of using
ramming our boats, stop water cannoning our people, stop firing lasers at us and stop your aggressive and coercive behavior, and we’ll return the typhoon missiles.
“Let them stop everything they’re doing and I’ll return all of those...I don’t understand the comments on the Typhon missiles. We don’t make any comments on their missile systems, and their missile systems are a thousand times more powerful than what we have.”
The Philippine military said another of its platoons would be trained on using the Typhon system next month, ahead of annual joint drills with its major defense ally
There was no immediate comment from Beijing, but China has repeatedly demanded the Philippines remove the missile system, saying it was “inciting geopolitical confrontation and an arms race.”
The US Army’s mobile Typhon missile system, which consists of a launcher and at least 16 Standard Missile-6 and Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles, was repositioned about two weeks ago from the
OpenAI inputs is like the pot calling the kettle black because OpenAI trained ChatCPT on open Internet data, DeepSeek trained its model on updated generated Internet data –DeepSeek copied the playbook but did it more efficiently and then open sourced it and they innovated on top of it, you can see this because it is open-sourced and published the research paper...” All the Western capitalist/proprietary AI companies have been mining the global public’s data for all the decades past wherever their technology, software and apps have been used – which is almost everywhere in the world, and sold back to us their fruits at exorbitant costs. DeepSeek is changing this with its
northern Philippines to a strategic area nearer the capital, Manila, in consultation with Philippine defense officials.
Tomahawk missiles can travel over 1,000 miles, which puts parts of mainland China within their range. Miltary officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the missile system will remain in the Philippines indefinitely.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said last week the Philippines is “creating tensions and antagonism in the region and inciting geopolitical confrontation and an arms race” by allowing the US missile system to be positioned in its territory.
But Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro correctly rejected China’s demand the missile system be removed as interference in Philippine internal affairs.
Manila and Washington have separately repeatedly condemned China’s increasingly assertive actions to press its territorial claims in the South China Sea, where hostilities have flared over the past two years with repeated clashes between Chinese and Philippine coast guard forces and accompanying vessels.
Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims in the busy waterway, a key shipping route which is also believed to be sitting atop large undersea deposits of gas and oil.
Open Source character, adaptable to local legal conditions including restrictions, hence obviating security concerns, and all at an affordable cost to users.
After the Sputnik moment brought about by DeepSeek, Alibaba springs a Spring Festival surprise announcing a new AI model it says surpasses DeepSeek!
So we may see a new “Let a Hundred Flowers Bloom” in the AI industry, and bring technology and the Age of AI to the masses of the world downloadable even on our ordinary cellphone.
Thank you China along with 5G, New Energy Vehicles, Renewable Energy, among so many other breakthroughs!
a National
and
junta extended the country’s state of emergency by six months as it struggles to quell widespread armed
to its rule. AFP
World awaits Trump tariff deadline on Canada, others
WA ASHINGTON, DC – With less than 24 hours before President Donald Trump’s deadline to impose sweeping tariffs on the three biggest US trading partners -- Canada, Mexico and China -- the global economy is bracing for impact.
Shortly after taking office this month, Trump said he planned to introduce 25 percent tariffs on neighbors Canada and Mexico on February 1 unless they cracked down on illegal migrants crossing the US border and the flow of deadly fentanyl.
He added that he was eyeing an additional 10 percent duty on Chinese goods as soon as Saturday as well, similarly over fentanyl.
On Thursday (Friday in Manila), he reiterated his commitment to levies on all three countries. Later that day, he also re-upped threats of 100 percent tariffs on BRICS nations -- a bloc including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa -- if they create a rival to the US dollar.
Fentanyl, many times more powerful than heroin, has been responsible for tens of thousands of overdose deaths a year.
Beijing previously rebuffed claims of its complicity in the deadly trade, while Canada has countered that below one percent of undocumented migrants and fentanyl entering the United States comes through its northern border.
JPMorgan analysts believe the promise of tariffs are “a bargaining chip” to accelerate the renegotiation of a trade deal between the United States, Mexico and Canada.
“However, potentially dismantling a decades-long freetrade area could be a significant shock,” said a recent JPMorgan note.
One lesson from Trump’s first term was that policy changes could be announced or threatened on short notice, it added.
Tariffs are paid by US businesses to the government on purchases from abroad and the economic weight can fall on importers, foreign suppliers or consumers. AFP
Myanmar junta extends emergency
YANGON – Myanmar’s junta extended a state of emergency by six months on Friday, four years after it seized power triggering a civil war that has claimed thousands of lives.
The country is mired in a bloody, multi-sided conflict stemming from the February 1, 2021 putsch that ended a 10-year experiment with democracy. The military is struggling to contain armed resistance to its rule, suffering a series of damaging battlefield losses over the past year to an alliance of ethnic minority armed groups in the north and
west of the country.
The ruling military council headed by army chief Min Aung Hlaing unanimously approved the extension, the junta’s information team said in a statement.
“All members of National Defense and Security Council including the commander in chief as well as acting president decided in unison for the extension
of the state of emergency for another six months,” the statement said. Elections cannot be held under a state of emergency, so long-promised polls the junta has said will be held in 2025 will not take place until the second half of the year at the earliest.
Min Aung Hlaing told the ruling council that “peace and stability is still needed” before the state of emergency can be lifted and polls held.
Critics and Western governments have said that any elections held under the auspices of the junta will be neither free nor fair.
The military seized power after making unsubstantiated allegations of fraud
in 2020 elections which Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) won in a landslide. It has extended the state of emergency multiple times since as it battles established ethnic minority armed groups and newer pro-democracy “People’s Defence Forces.”
More than 6,000 civilians have been killed since the coup, and more than 20,000 arrested, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners monitoring group.
On Thursday the UN’s Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) said serious international crimes had been committed in the four years
Ghosts of past spies haunt London’s little-known underground tunnels
LONDON – Behind a blue door in a narrow London passage lies a little-known network of tunnels deep underground, once home to British spies and a secret long-distance telephone exchange.
Thirty meters below the UK capital’s bustling streets, all that can be heard in the tunnels built to withstand a nuclear attack is the rumble of the London Underground’s Circle Line.
The two main tunnels, five to seven meters in diameter, reached via some steps and then a lift, “were built to defend the British from the Nazis” during World War II, explained Angus Murray, on a guided visit for a small group of journalists.
The Australian-born entrepreneur’s private
equity firm bought the little-known Kingsway Exchange Tunnels in September 2023 from British Telecom. The price has not been divulged.
Now Murray hopes to transform the site, which stretches for over a mile (1.6 kilometres), into a major tourist attraction “honoring the history and heritage of London” with a planned opening in 2028.
The complex beneath the Holborn district was built as an air-raid shelter during the early 1940s bombardments known as the Blitz.
The site is now planned to host immersive displays showcasing its distinctive heritage as a World War II bomb shelter and then as the home of the top-secret Special Operations Executive between 1944 and 1945. AFP
since the coup. The conflict has forced more than 3.5 million people to flee their homes, while an estimated 19.9 million people -- or more than a third of Myanmar’s population -- will need humanitarian aid in 2025, according to the UN. Earlier this month, foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) regional bloc urged the junta to prioritize a ceasefire in the conflict over holding elections. ASEAN has led international efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis but, despite multiple meetings and declarations, has made no substantial progress. AFP
Japan, US express intent to reinforce defense alliance
TOKYO – New US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and his Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani agreed in a phone call Friday to continue efforts to strengthen the countries’ alliance, Tokyo said.
Hegseth -- a former infantryman and Fox News personality -- was sworn in last weekend, having narrowly won Senate confirmation despite allegations of alcohol abuse, sexual misconduct and concerns over inexperience.
Key allies Japan and the United States are each other’s top foreign investors, and 54,000 US military personnel are stationed in Japan, mostly in Okinawa east of Taiwan.
But President Donald Trump’s “America First” approach could mean less cash from Washington for security in the region, analysts have warned.
“The Ministers affirmed their firm intent to continue the initiatives to reinforce the Alliance, including the upgrading of respective command and control framework and expansion of bilateral presence in the southwestern region of Japan,” Tokyo’s defense ministry said. Nakatani said “he looks forward to working with Secretary Hegseth to further strengthen the Alliance capabilities to deter and respond amid the increasingly severe security environment” in the Asia-Pacific, the ministry statement added.
“The Ministers reaffirmed that Article V of the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security applies to the Senkaku Islands,” it said. A chain of uninhabited islands claimed by Beijing but administered by Tokyo, known as the Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, have long been a point of tension between the neighbors. AFP
Legislature cements ‘absolute power’ of president, wife
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – Nicaraguan strongman Daniel Ortega
Reed Brody, a member of a
Nations
of
country’s human
situation. “Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo have enshrined and solidified their absolute power,” he added. The reform was “approved in its entirety,” said the National Assembly, controlled by Ortega’s ruling FSLN party,
QUELLING REBELLION. This handout photo taken and released on Friday by the Myanmar Military Information Team shows
Myanmar’s military chief Min Aung Hlaing (center) addressing
Defense
Security Council meeting in Naypyidaw. Myanmar’s
HOSTAGE SWAP. Zakaria Zubeidi, 49, a former Palestinian prisoner released by Israel is cheered by people after arriving in Ramallah Thursday aboard buses of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Two buses carrying Palestinian prisoners departed Ofer Prison in the occupied West Bank in the late afternoon, according to an AFP journalist, as part of the agreement for a truce in Gaza to exchange Palestinians held in Israeli jails for Israeli hostages kidnapped by Hamas in the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel. AFP
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Gwon grabs win in playo as Van der Valk collapses
STA. ROSA, Laguna—Minwook
Gwon clinched The Country Club Invitational title on his first attempt, securing victory with a clutch par in sudden death after Guido van der Valk faltered down the stretch on Friday at the TCC course here.
The 23-year-old Korean, who bogeyed the demanding 18th hole in regulation, carded the day’s best round with a 69. But his fortunes turned when van der Valk, vying for a record-tying feat, struggled with a series of costly errors and limped to a 74, forcing a sudden death after both players finished at three-over 291.
In the playoff, Gwon safely found the center of the green on their return to No. 18 and two-putted for par. Meanwhile, van der Valk’s approach shot caught a flyer and found the water behind the green. After taking a penalty drop on the fringe, he settled for a bogey, allowing Gwon to seal his maiden professional victory.
“I really wanted to win my first pro tournament. I feel great that I did it in the biggest event on the Philippine Golf Tour,” said Gwon, who developed his game as an eight-year-old at Riviera Golf Club in Silang.
The P6 million championship featured an elite 30-player field, including past TCC Invitational winners and top finishers on the Order of Merit. Gwon took home P2 million, while Van der Valk settled for the P1 million runner-up prize.
Reymon Jaraula placed third at 293 after an even-par 72, earning P540,000. LJ Go shot a 76 for a 295 total, finishing fourth with P408,000, while Japan’s Kakeru Ozeki placed fifth at 296 after a 72, taking home P288,000. Aidric Chan (76) and Clyde Mondilla (77) shared sixth at 297.
For Van der Valk, the loss was especially bittersweet as he played while mourning the recent passing of his father, Wouter, just two weeks prior.
“I was hoping to win this for him. Hopefully, I get another chance,” said the Manila-based Dutchman.
Cangolf, Luisita lead inductees into PAL Interclub Hall of Fame
CANLUBANG and Luisita, clubs with the most storied rivalry in the rich history of the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub, will be honored by leading three other clubs into enshrinement in the tournament’s Hall of Fame, in time for the 76th staging of what is known as the country’s unofficial team golf championship.
Cangolf and Luisita will earn their places in both the Men’s and Seniors divisions, a deserved citation for having put color in the tournament because of a heated – yet camaraderie-filled –rivalry that dates back to the PAL Interclub’s early years.
The Sugar Barons are the winningest Men’s titlists with 17 PAL Interclub victories and the first club to win it five (2006 to 2010) and four straight years (2000 to 2003), with their Seniors team earning its place in the Hall for winning it 11 times highlighted by a streak of four straight from 2006 to 2009. Luisita, meanwhile, owns the most wins by any Senior team in history, winning it a total of 18 times while owning an eye-popping streak of six wins from 2000 to 2005.
The regular Luisita team, meanwhile, is an eight-time winner and has a three-peat to its record carved out from 1991 to 1993.
The other clubs who made the Hall of Fame in the Regular Men’s championship are Bacolod Gold and Country Club, Camp Aguinaldo and the recent power of the Interclub, Manila Southwoods. Southwoods has dominated men’s play in the recent past, with seven of its nine titles coming from 2015, where it won four straight, and then three consecutive from 2020 to 2024, not counting the two years the event was shelved because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yulo, PH gymnasts face new scoring challenges
By Peter Atencio
PARIS Olympics’ double-gold medallist Carlos Yulo will face big changes and challenges as he prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
This year, adjustments will be implemented in new FIG code of points, which is used to determine to the scores of gymnasts in the next Olympic cycle from 2025 to 2028. Coach Aldrin Castaneda said this after the 24-year-old Yulo resumed training with the rest of the national
men’s team in the first week of January.
“Nagbago iyung code of points.
Kailangan ay aralin iyung bago,” said Castaneda during a break in training after Yulo was hailed as Athlete of the Year during the annual Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards Night at the Manila Hotel.
The code of points is a rulebook that defines the scoring system for each level of competition in gymnastics.
The scoring system was overhauled in 2006 and last used in the 2024 Paris meet, with 10 difficulty ratings, or elements to be judged and evaluated.
This time, for the coming Olympic cycle, coaches and athletes are dealing with a reduction of skills that will be observed by judges from 10 to eight.
According to the code of points,
every non-vault event has three element groups, in addition to the dismount.
Castaneda said that this will lead to lower scores overall, with specific rules of each apparatus. This also means that gymnasts under his care need to have creatively constructed routines to ensure an athlete’s eight best skills count.
“Nag-iba na sa Olympic cycle na ito. Instead of 10, 8 na ang kukunin mo,” added Castaneda.
Yulo’s teammates include John Ivan Cruz, Juancho Miguel Besana, Jan Timbang, Justine Ace de Leon and Jhon Romeo Santillan. Their sessions are done under the watchful eyes of Castaneda, who has allowed Carlos’ younger brother Eldrew to join the sessions.
on his rst attempt.
Carlos Yulo
Castaneda is preparing the 16-yearold Eldrew, who is still in the national junior squad, for his transition to the men’s squad next year. Camps in Malaysia, Japan and Korea are being scheduled for the Olympian Yulo as he gets ready for international meets next month.
One Silay reaches PNVF U-21 semifinal round
ONE Silay formalized its entry to the semifinal after beating Lingayen in a thrilling five-setter win, 21-25, 20-25, 25-17, 25-13, 15-12, on Friday in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Under-21 Championship National Men’s Division at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
After losing the opening and second set, the volleyball players from Negros Occidental came to their senses by doubling their attacks and tightening up their defense in the last three sets to score a complete reversal in Group A.
The only defeat of One Silay came from Mindanao’s top team Zamboanga City, 22-25, 21-25, 21-25, last Thursday. Zamboanga City, currently undefeated in two games, is also sure of clinching a semifinal seat.
University of the East (UE), also qualified for semifinal spot, is also undefeated in Group B with 2-0 slate at the tournament organized by the PNVF headed by President Ramon “Tats” Suzara, also the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) president and FIVB executive vice president. The classification phase (No. 5 to 8) will be played on Saturday starting 9am, and 11:30am before the semifinal matches hit at 2pm and 4:30pm.
One Silay finished the preliminary round with 2-1 win-loss record in the tournament backed by Akari, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Meralco, PLDT, Smart, AyalaLand, Nuvali, Mikasa, Senoh, Asics, Rebisco, Cignal, OneSports, OneSports+ and Pilipinas Live. Lingayen, which beat Volleyball Never Stop (VNS), 25-21, 20-25, 25-23, 25-23, ended the preliminary round with 1-2 record.
Cebu mechanic 1st winner of Shell Advance Masters Mekaniko League
IT was a tough competition among skilled professionals, but only one made history as the first-ever winner of the Shell Advance Masters Nationwide Mekaniko League.
A mechanic of five years, Arnold Openiano of ARB Motorcycle Parts and Accessories in Cebu City claimed the title of First Shell Advance Master of the Philippines. The grand finals, recently held at the Le Pavillion Events Hall in Pasay City, saw Openiano topping four other mechanics with equally impressive resumes in the field of motorcycle repair and maintenance.
The grand finals featured two grueling rounds of competition. The first round centered on Mastery of Error Codes, where finalists were given 15 minutes to identify and explain the error codes they found on the motorcycle unit assigned to them. The Grand Master Round put the finalists to work, as they were given only 30 minutes to troubleshoot the errors and perform proper oil change using Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology.
“Hindi ko inakalang ako ‘yong mananalo,” said Openiano. “Oo, naghanda ako kasi alam kong magagaling ‘yong kalaban ko sa grand finals pero hindi pa din naging madali para sa akin ‘yong contest kasi talagang sinubok ni Shell ‘yong kaalaman at kakayahan naming mga mekanino.”
To earn the right to compete in the finale, Openiano and the other finalists had to best over 500
participants in the Shell Advance Masters regionals, which kicked off in Cebu City before making its way to other key locations such as Metro Manila, Pangasinan, Cagayan de Oro, Cavite, and Caloocan. The event series gave motorcycle mechanics an opportunity to enhance their skills, learn new techniques, and showcase their talents in a friendly competitive environment.
“Sobrang nagpapasalamat ako sa Shell para sa suportang ibinibigay nila sa mga mekanikong tulad ko,” added Openiano who was awarded Php 200,000 in cash and a new Kawasaki Dominar 400 motorbike— a prize package worth almost half a million pesos. “Gagamitin ko itong napanalunan ko para i-upgrade ‘yong mga gamit ko sa paggawa ng mga motorsiklo.” “Seven out of ten bikers in the Philippines rely on mechanics for the upkeeping of their motorcycles,” said Shell Advance Brand Manager, Jannah Surposa. “Sa pamamagitan nitong Shell Advance Masters, natutulungan natin ang mga motorcycle mechanics na mag-upskill at mag-upgrade. Nabibigyan din sila ng pagkakataon na magpakitang-gilas dahil talaga namang hindi biro ang maging isang mekaniko.”
“Apart from being a showcase of exceptional motorcycle mechanic skills, the Shell Advance Masters Nationwide Mekaniko League is also a celebration of the strong and enduring relationship we have with the motorcycle community—a bond forged over years of trust and shared commitment to excellence. This event is a testament to the passion that unites us and the vibrant community spirit that continues to grow within the riding culture,” ended Shell Philippines Vice President for Corporate Relations, Sergio Bernal Jr. To learn more about Shell Advance for motorcycles, visit https://www.shell.com/motorist/oils-lubricants/advance-for-motorcycles.html.
Minwook Gwon displays his trophy and giant replica check after winning The Country Club Invitational title
Manny Marcelo
Carlo Laforteza of Lingayen scores against defender Vin Mark Canoy and Anthony Munez of One Silay.
Mechanic Arnold Openiano celebrates his win.
5,862.59 4.01% 22.9%
PSEi’s closing on Jan. 31, 2025
Decline of PSEi on Jan. 31, 2025
Loss of PSEi since Oct. 7, 2024
By Jenniffer B. Austria
THE Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) plunged into the bear market, after it lost more than 200 points Friday.
The PSEi plummeted by 245 points, or 4.01 percent, to close at 5,862.59, while the broader allshares index declined 79 points, or 2.19 percent, to 3,520.32.
A bear market is one where prices declined by 20 percent from a recent peak. With market’s performance on Friday, the PSEi was 22.9 percent down from its immediate peak of 7,604.61 posted on Oct. 7, 2024.
Analysts said negative sentiments here and abroad caused the market to decline for five straight trading days.
Investors turned cautious after the US Federal Reserve’s less dovish signals and following US President Donald Trump’s latest threat to impose 15-percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico.
Investors also continue to digest the softer-than-expected gross domestic product growth of the Philippines in 2024.
Regina Capital Development Corp. Luis Limlingan said investors sold blue chips to buy into new index member China Banking Corp. and AREIT Inc. CBC and AREIT will be included in the 30-member PSEi beginning next month, replacing Nickel Asia Corp. and Wilcon Depot, Inc.
MERRY Mart Groceries Center Inc.
QUICK RESPONSE. Manila Electric Company (Meralco) participates in the 2025 mock elections organized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to ensure reliable and stable electricity service for the upcoming May 12 midterm polls. Shown are Meralco crews and personnel simulating quick response measures at the polling precinct in Makati High School to possible power service troubles that may emerge during the elections such as downed electricity lines, loadside trouble and fire-related outages For the upcoming elections, the distribution utility will deploy generator sets and flood lights in strategic areas to complement the readiness of Meralco crews and personnel who will be on standby 24/7 throughout the election process.
Interest rate cuts seen lifting 2025 GDP growth
ASERIES of interest rate cuts by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas will help the Philippine economy grow faster in 2025, after achieving a slower-thanexpected 5.6-percent expansion in 2024, Oxford Economics said Thursday.
“We expect the growth will pick up in 2025, supported by more accommodative monetary policy and anticipated well-contained inflation. Nevertheless, uncertainty around US tariff policies, tighter than expected financial conditions and increased geopolitical risks present some downside risks to growth,” the Londonbased economic advisory firm said.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the gross domestic product grew by 5.2 percent year-onyear in the fourth quarter, resulting in a full-year growth of 5.6 percent. Persistent weakness in goods exports and extreme weather conditions continued weighing on growth in the fourth quarter, according to Oxford Economics. It fell short of the government’s 2024 growth target of 6 percent to 6.5 percent for 2024. The 2024 growth still placed the Philippines as the third fastest-grow-
BPI ANNIVERSARY. Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., together with Bureau of Plant Industry director Dr. Gerald Glenn Panganiban, leads the celebration of BPI’s 95th anniversary, themed ‘THRIVE @ 95: Innovating for Climate Resiliency Towards Food and Nutrition Security’ in Malate, Manila on Jan. 22, 2025.
ing economy among neighboring Asian countries that released their fourth-quarter figures. The Philippines trails Vietnam (7.5 percent) and China (5.4 percent), but outpaced Malaysia (4.8 percent).
Oxford Economics expects economic growth to gain some momentum in 2025. “With more accommodative monetary policy, we expect three 25 basis point rate cuts in the first three quarters and likely wellcontained inflation, consumer spending and investment are both likely to strengthen,” it said. The government’s Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) set an annual growth target of 6 percent to 8 percent for 2025 to 2028.
By Othel V. Campos
THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) agreed to enforce intellectual property (IP) laws in election campaigns through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed on Jan. 24, 2025.
The partnership builds on the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed during the Philippine International Copyright Summit in October 2024, noting both agencies’ commitment to ensuring candidates respect IP rights when creating campaign materials.
It aims to further define the specific actions and collaboration between the
MerryMart president Jacqueline Anna Marie Gomez signed the MOU, confirming the retail chain’s involvement in the government’s affordable rice program.
The partnership follows a meeting convened by the DA on Jan. 21, 2025, encouraging major retail networks to expand the distribution of affordable rice options such as the P29 rice and the Rice-for-All (RFA) program.
The RFA offers various well-milled rice varieties such as the RFA5 or 5-percent broken grains at P45 per kilogram, RFA25 or 25-percent broken at P38 per kg. and RFA100 or Sulit Rice fully-broken grains at P36 per kg. Othel V. Campos
program.
two agencies to ensure compliance with IP laws during election periods.
IPOPHL deputy director-general for policy, legal affairs and external relations Nathaniel Arevalo cited the importance of stronger enforcement mechanisms.
“This agreement will allow us to work more effectively in educating candidates and their teams about the significance of respecting intellectual property. It will also streamline reporting and enforcement mechanisms, ensuring violations are promptly addressed in a fair manner,” Arevalo said.
Under the MOA, the two agencies committed to setting up a joint technical working group to oversee violation
reports, monitoring and enforcement.
The group will include representatives from IPOPHL’s Bureau of Copyright and Related Rights (BCRR), Bureau of Legal Affairs (BLA) and the IP Rights Enforcement Office (IEO), as well as Comelec personnel.
Comelec chairman George Erwin Garcia highlighted the negative impact of IP infringement during campaigns, comparing it to stealing a song created for a loved one.
“If someone can steal the work of Filipino talent, what more could they do with the public funds once they’re elected? This is why our partnership with IPOPHL is so important. We want to protect Filipino creativity,” Garcia said.
Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. (right) and MerryMart Groceries Center Inc. chief operating officer Ferdinand Sia show the signed memorandum of understanding to strengthen the KADIWA ng Pangulo initiative at the Double Dragon head office in Pasay City on Jan. 31, 2025. MarryMart is among the grocery stores that agreed to set up KADIWA P29 and Ricefor-All outlets. Joseph Muego
By Alena Mae S. Flores
CITICORE Power Inc. on Friday announced a block sale of 153,741,000 common shares in unit Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC), reducing its interest to 59.92 percent from 78.78 percent. CREC said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange it received a notice from CPI on Jan. 31, 2025 about the transaction, which is part of the conditions precedent to PT Pertamina Power Indonesia’s (PNRE) acquisition of a 20-percent stake in the company. CREC earlier disclosed that its public float would be maintained at 20 percent as a portion of the common shares owned by CPI would be sold to the public prior to the subscription of PNRE.
“The aforementioned acquisition will enable the company to gain the opportunity to partner with PNRE in pursuing its 5-gigawatt project pipeline in the Philippines and to develop renewable energy projects in Indonesia, allowing for the company’s potential expansion in the region. PNRE’s investment in CREC is a testament to the company’s track record and ability to ramp up its renewable energy pipeline from pre-development to construction to commercial operations,” it said.
“Furthermore, the block sale transaction was made to ensure that the company remains compliant to the 20-percent minimum public float requirement of the exchange upon the entry of PNRE,” CREC said.
It said CPI also gave notice to the company regarding the PSE’s corresponding approval of its block sale application.
IBP offers free legal aid to tourism workers
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) teamed up to offer free legal assistance to accredited tourism stakeholders and frontline workers, particularly those from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and IBP national president Antonio Pido announced the partnership during the opening ceremony of the 20th National Convention of Lawyers in Lahug, Cebu City on Jan. 30, 2025. Frasco emphasized the shared commitment between the DOT and IBP to foster inclusive growth, strengthen institutions and serve the Filipino people. She cited the significance of involving MSMEs to build a more robust and sustainable tourism sector.
“This partnership is a testament to our collective dedication to addressing the critical needs of our communities and ensuring that justice and legal assistance are easily accessible to tourism stakeholders. By empowering MSMEs, we are strengthening the entire tourism landscape, which is vital to the country’s economic development,” Frasco said.
The DOT and IBP will also work on the proposed establishment of 24/7 tourist courts, another key initiative under the Marcos administration.
The specialized courts are aimed at swiftly resolving tourism-related disputes in high-traffic destinations across the country.
“I commend the IBP, under the leadership of Atty. Antonio C. Pido, for its unwavering commitment to the rule of law and public service. This partnership is a reflection of our shared goals to create a positive, lasting impact on the lives of our people. It’s not just about policies; it’s about the lives we touch and the futures we shape,” Frasco said.
A new benefit for IBP members is the DOT-IBP virtual privilege card, which provides exclusive discounts at participating DOT-accredited businesses, including MSMEs. The virtual card, which will be accessible through the existing IBP app, allows members to explore the country’s diverse tourism offerings while supporting the sector’s growth. Othel V. Campos
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2025
extrastory2000@gmail.com
RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor
ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
Concepcion’s net income grew 83% to P1.2b in 2024
By Jenniffer B. Austria
has positioned CIC for continued momentum,” CIC chief finance and operating officer Rajan Komarasu said.
Banks maintained lending standards in Q4
By Darwin G. Amojelar
MOST banks kept their lending standards for corporate and household borrowers generally steady in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilpinas (BSP).
The results of the BSP’s Q4 2024 Senior Bank Loan Officers’ Survey (SLOS) showed that majority of respondent banks, or 83.3 percent, maintained their credit standards for businesses using the modal approach. This marked an increase from the previous quarter, where 80.4 percent of respondents reported unchanged loan standards. Meanwhile, the diffusion index (DI) approach indicated a net tightening of credit standards in Q4 2024, due to the deterioration in borrowers’ profiles and the profitability of the bank’s portfolio.
Home
By Othel V. Campos
HOME Credit Philippines (HCPH),
a consumer finance company, said it wrapped up 2024 with P61 billion in sales, or 19 percent higher than in 2023. Home Credit said it financed 2.91 million items in 2024, with popular categories including mobile phones, computers, home appliances and electronics.
The company’s financing services were boosted by year-round campaigns, including the zero percent interest installment financing options.
“At Home Credit, the growth we have experienced goes beyond just numbers. It reflects the lives we have empowered by providing accessible financial solutions that help our customers live the lives they deserve. The remarkable sales performance from 2024 inspires
us to continue innovating, expanding our offerings, and introducing more promotions that empower Filipinos, all while remaining true to our mission of being a reliable financial ally that helps realize personal and family goals,” said HCPI chief sales officer Puneet Suneja.
The company said its outstanding performance was largely driven by its top-selling categories including mobile phones and tablets, home appliances, televisions and electronics, computers and furniture, which collectively contributed P57.4 billion to the total sales.
Mobile phones and tablets led 2024 sales contributing P31.7 billion from 1.6 million units financed, representing 52 percent of Home Credit’s total POS sales.
Popular brands such as Apple, Samsung, Vivo, OPPO and Honor continued to be top choices for Filipino consumers.
Over the next quarter, the modal approach showed that 85.2 percent of participating banks expect lending standards for enterprises to remain generally unchanged.
The DI results, on the other hand, suggest that loan standards for Q1 2025 are anticipated to remain steady due to stable economic outlook and unchanged risk tolerance and borrower profiles.
Most participating banks in the survey, or 74.1 percent, indicated unchanged overall demand for enterprise loans in the fourth quarter based on the modal approach.
“This proportion was slightly
higher than in the previous quarter (72.5 percent). The DI method showed a net increase in loan demand from firms in Q4 2024, though slightly lower than the previous quarter,” the BSP said.
“This increase was driven by higher customer inventory financing needs, clients’ more optimistic economic expectations, and an increase in borrowers’ short-term financing needs,” it said.
Over the following quarter, the modal method indicated that a majority of respondents (61.1 percent) expect steady overall loan demand from enterprises.
DA takes action to prevent egg shortage, price surge amid industry concerns
DPWH invites bidders for Aklan-Boracay bridge
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) launched the bidding for the construction of a bridge connecting Boracay to Malay, Aklan. It said it is inviting local and international companies to submit comparative proposals under a comparative bidding process to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain a 2.54-kilometer Boracay bridge project connecting Boracay Island and the main island of Panay (Malay, Aklan) under a 30-year concession period from the start of operations. It said the comparative bidding for the project would be conducted in accordance with the procurement rules and procedures applicable for unsolicited proposals set out in Republic Act No. 11966.
The DPWH said interested parties may coordinate with its pre-qualification, bids and awards committee (PBAC).
Grab unveils program for deaf drivers
GRAB Philippines launched the Grab CommuniKit, a new initiative designed to enhance inclusivity for deaf driverpartners.
The in-vehicle visual communication kit is designed to bridge the communication gap between passengers and deaf driver-partners, ensuring a safe, smooth and comfortable ride. It said the Grab CommuniKit is a thoughtfully designed set of postcards featuring commonly used phrases and requests made during GrabCar rides. These easy-to-read postcards aim to facilitate communication with PWD drivers on various topics, such as directions, drop-off points and special requests like air conditioning adjustments.
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is taking decisive action to prevent a potential egg shortage and price hike, Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said Friday. The initiative comes in response to concerns over supply disruptions stemming from industry losses last year and to avert a crisis similar to what the United States is facing, where a bird flu outbreak led to the culling of millions of egg-laying chickens, causing significant shortages.
By Darwin G. Amojelar and Jenniffer B. Austria
MEGAWIDE Construction Corp and joint venture partner Maplecrest Group, Inc. (MGI) signed a P1.87billion agreement with the provincial government of Cavite for the Cavite Bus Rapid Transit System (CBTS) project.
“We are excited to collaborate with MGI and the provincial government of Cavite on this transformative project. The initial phase of CBRT will serve close to 10,000 daily passengers, with a target to increase ridership five-fold within three years, depending on Cavite’s progress. This is part of our commitment to providing world-class infrastructure for Filipinos,” said Megawide chairman and chief executive Edgar Saavedra.
“This is part of our commitment to
He said while the Philippines has not yet experienced a widespread bird flu outbreak, the country could face an egg supply shortage by April 2025.
The DA said it is fast-tracking the importation of egg-laying chickens to address this and is pushing for the swift approval of avian influenza vaccines by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The agency is also working to secure P300 million in funding, as requested by the National Livestock
A combination of oversupply and weak demand caused egg prices to drop in 2024, leading many local producers to cull their egg-laying hens. This reduced the population of egg layers, potentially impacting future supply.
Program, for vaccine testing. It said mass vaccination could begin as early as March.
“We still have time, and there’s a good chance we can avert this situation,” Tiu Laurel said, calling on financial institutions like Land Bank and the Development Bank of the Philippines to extend funding to support the industry’s repopulation efforts. Othel V. Campos
providing world-class infrastructure for Filipinos,” he said.
The CBRT is a private-public partnership (PPP) project of Cavite province, under a 30-year build-operate transfer (BOT) joint venture (JV) agreement, to develop an efficient and organized bus transport system along a 29-kilometer stretch.
The line is designed to serve about 10,000 passengers and can be expandable up to 80,000 passengers daily. The project has an estimated total cost of P1.87 billion spread throughout the JV period. The development is split into two phases. Phase 1 will have three terminals with 27 stations and will involve the operation of a bus rapid transit (BRT) and point-to-point (P2P) bus system traversing several cities and municipalities including Kawit, Imus, General Trias and Tanza.
The kit was co-created with leading organizations advocating for inclusivity for the deaf, such as DeafED Philippines, the National Association of Sign Language Interpreters, and the community of PWD Grab driverpartners. It adheres to industry standards for effective communication methods tailored to the needs of deaf individuals.
“In championing
PHYGITAL BRANCH. Land Bank of the Philippines president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz (fourth from left)
Deputy Treasurer of the Philippines Ma. Nanette Diaz (fifth from left) lead the inauguration of the LandBank
Makati Business Center Ayala - Avenue Phygital Branch in Makati City on Jan. 30, 2025. The latest upgraded branch is LandBank’s eighth phygital branch, as the bank plans to inaugurate at least
outstanding public relations programs in investor relations, financial communications, branding, social good, sustainability and governance. Shown is Erwin Pato, SM Investments executive vice president for treasury, finance and planning, receiving the Anvil Award from Norman Agatep, vice president for external of the Public Relations Society of the Philippines for SM’s landmark Euro Medium-Term Notes Program.
Megawide Construction Corp. and Maplecrest Group Inc. through the joint venture Cavite Rapid Transport Inc., together with the provincial government of Cavite, sign the contract for the Cavite Bus Rapid Transit System Project on Jan. 27, 2025 at the Twin Lakes Hotel, Nasugbu, Batangas. Signing the agreement are (from left) Cavite PPP Committee vice-chairman Arnel Cantimbuhan, Maplecrest president Erlaster Sotto, Maplecrest chairman Guillermo Choa, Cavite Gov. Athena Tolentino, Cavite PPP Committee chairman Renato Abutan, Megawide chairman and chief executive Edgar Saavedra and Megawide chief business development officer Jaime Feliciano.
TECH
Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G: Durable, photography phone?
By Jessica Luna
IT WAS always about the camera.
Admit it. When you’re buying a smartphone, the first feature you check is the camera. If you don’t like the photo or photos resulting in your ‘examination’, then that’s a deal-breaker for you.
In more recent times, buyers now look for a phone’s durability. Will it crack if I drop or sit on it? Will it crash if submerged in water?
What if I told you Xiaomi’s latest offering, the Redmi Note 14 Series, can pass both with flying colors.
Our unit in particular, the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G, boasts of a compelling blend of photography prowess, robust build quality, and solid performance.
Let’s delve into a detailed review focusing specifically on this model: Flagship Photography
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G’s most prominent feature is undoubtedly its camera system. The 200MP main sensor, coupled with optical image stabilization (OIS), promises highly detailed images, even in challenging lighting conditions. The inclusion of 2x and 4x optical-grade lossless zoom offers significant versatility for framing shots, while the 20x digital zoom provides extended reach, though likely with some loss of quality.
The upgraded 20MP front camera with a 0.8x wide-angle lens is a welcome addition for group selfies.
Beyond the hardware, Xiaomi has incorporated several software enhancements. Features like Dynamic Shots, Dual Video, AI Image Expansion, and AI Erase Pro elevate the photography experience, offering creative tools to enhance and edit photos directly on the device.
The combination of powerful hardware and intelligent software positions the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G as a strong choice for mobile photography enthusiasts.
Built to Last
Xiaomi has placed a significant emphasis on durability with the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G.
The “All-Star Armor Structure,” incorporating a high-strength aluminum composite frame, energy-absorbing foam, and polymer buffering
Count
me in
material, suggests enhanced drop protection.
Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 further reinforces the display’s scratch resistance. The IP68 rating signifies excellent protection against dust and water immersion, giving users peace of mind in various environments.
Even the display is optimized for responsiveness in wet or oily conditions. These combined features make the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G a phone that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Immersive Viewing
The 120Hz eye-care display offers a smooth and immersive viewing experience for various content. The 1.5K resolution on the Pro models enhances clarity and detail. TÜV Rheinland certifications for Low Blue Light, Flicker Free, and Circadian Friendly modes prioritize eye comfort during extended use. The high peak brightness of 3000 nits ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. Performance and Battery
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra chipset, which should provide smooth performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multimedia consumption. Paired with a large battery (between 5110mAh and 5500mAh as the article suggests a range for the series), the device aims to offer all-day battery life. The long-cycle battery design, retaining 80% capacity after 1600 charge cycles, is a significant advantage for long-term use. Smart Charging and big-data-based aging prediction further optimize battery health. The quick turn-on function is a convenient feature for quickly powering up the device. The inclusion of Google Gemini and Circle to Search adds to the user experience, providing personalized interactions and quick information access.
Verdict
Usher in Lunar New Year with Samsung’s big TV sets: A new era of viewing awaits
LUNAR New Year is a time for family, laughter, and traditions that unite generations. As we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake, we celebrate its symbolism of renewal and good fortune. Much like the snake shedding its skin for a fresh start, this is a wonderful time to refresh your home entertainment with Samsung’s big Crystal UHD TVs, enhancing the enjoyment of your family celebrations.
Elevate Your Celebrations with Unmatched Entertainment
As the Global No. 1 TV brand, Samsung’s new lineup of big TVs, including the 75” Crystal UHD DU700 4K Smart TV and 65” Crystal UHD DU700 4K Smart TV, are designed to deliver an immersive, theater-like experience. Perfectly paired with the Samsung Soundbar, these TVs are ideal for movie marathons, celebrating the Lunar New Year fireworks countdown, or singing along to your favorite karaoke hits.
Experience vivid visuals with the PurColor technology, which offers a vibrant range of colors for optimal picture quality and a truly immersive viewing experience. With a 4K upscaling feature, these TVs elevate content to 4K quality, delivering stunning clarity and lifelike visuals that make every moment feel as vivid as the celebrations themselves.
Enhance the festive spirit even further this Lunar New Year by pairing your Samsung TV with a Samsung Soundbar for a truly immersive audiovisual experience. The Soundbar’s Q-Symphony technology takes home audio to new heights by seamlessly integrating the TV and Soundbar speakers, delivering rich, 3D surround sound that fills the room. From the energetic beats of lion dance performances to traditional music during family reunions, this pairing creates the perfect
big-sized TVs.
festive atmosphere, making your celebration vibrant and unforgettable. Smart Homes for an Interconnected Living Samsung’s big TVs do more than enhance your viewing experience—they seamlessly integrate into your smart home. With the SmartThings feature, your TV becomes a central hub, enabling you to effortlessly control lights, adjust the thermostat, or monitor security cameras. Beyond smart home convenience, these TVs also prioritize your peace of mind.
SmarTrade strengthens social media presence
SMARTRADE proudly announces that its official Facebook pages: SmarTrade PH and SmarTrade Community - Middle East; and Instagram account (@smartradeph) are now verified. This significant milestone highlights SmarTrade’s commitment to fostering trust, transparency, and security in its interactions with its growing online community.
The verification badge is a mark of authenticity that assures users they are engaging with the official brand which will likely reduce the risk of misinformation from potential impersonators.
“The verification badge reflects our commitment to creating a safe and trustworthy space for our community. It allows us to connect directly with our audience while providing them with the re-
sources they need to make informed financial decisions,” said Joyce Mayo, President and CEO of SmarTrade. In an era of increasing online scams and fake accounts, SmarTrade’s verified pages serve as a vital tool in protecting individuals from fraudulent schemes. The financial sector, in particular, has become a prime target for scammers posing as legitimate organizations. SmarTrade recognizes the importance of safeguarding its audience and ensuring that Filipinos have access to credible, accurate information through official platforms.
By directing individuals to its verified pages, SmarTrade offers an added layer of security, helping users identify legitimate sources of fi-
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G delivers a premium experience at a competitive price point. It is a well-rounded midranger that excels in key areas like photography and durability, with features like Google Gemini and Circle to Search, also adding to its appeal.
The combination of a high-resolution camera system, robust build quality, solid performance, long battery life, and an immersive display makes it a compelling option for users seeking a feature-rich mid-range smartphone. Price and availability
The Redmi Note 14 Series brings flagship-level features to a wider audience, offering exceptional value for every budget.
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G 12+256GB is priced at P17,999, and the 12+512GB at P19,999. that
GOOGLE is ringing in the Lunar New Year with a nostalgic twist. To celebrate the Year of the Snake, the search engine has launched an animated Google Doodle that features a modern take on the classic Snake game.
Clicking on the Doodle transports people back in time, but this isn’t simply the old Snake game that we know. Google has revamped the beloved game with updated gameplay, unique challenges, and daily objectives that go beyond simply eating and growing. Players can personalize their snake, customize
nancial education and trading insights. This proactive step not only protects the community but also empowers them to navigate their financial journeys confidently, free from the risk of being misled by fake accounts or scam groups. SmarTrade’s verified accounts also support its mission to deliver engaging and reliable content, including market insights, educational materials, and updates on free learning sessions and events. These efforts align with the company’s vision of building a financially empowered nation.
With its vision firmly set on building a financially empowered nation, SmarTrade invites Filipinos to join its thriving community and take advantage of its 100% free learning sessions and mentorship programs. For more details or to reg-
the look of its snacks, and enjoy a fresh “daily challenge” each day. This interactive Doodle provides a fun and engaging way to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Enjoy the game while also spending time with loved ones, feasting on traditional foods, and welcoming the new year with reunions and festivities. Have a happy, healthy, and prosperous Lunar New Year. Share the fun with your friends and family, and check out the Doodle now on Google Search: http:// www.google.com/doodles/ lunar-new-year-2025
Bring your loved ones together for the ultimate viewing experience like never before, powered by Samsung’s
Sample photos
SHOWBIZ
Jason Abalos, JC De Vera join local festivals, engage with communities
By Nickie Wang
ACTORS Jason Abalos and JC De Vera joined community celebrations in Bohol and Negros Occidental in January, bringing entertainment and a message of support for grassroots initiatives.
Abalos attended SB Night in Cortes, Bohol, where he performed and spoke with residents about their concerns. The event, organized by Mayor Conchita Delos Reyes and Board Member Angilita Toribio, focused on strengthening local ties.
Abalos, who grew up in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija, shared his connection to rural communities and the importance of working together for progress.
He later traveled to the Carmen Gymnasium for the Beauche Night Eve festivities, where he received a warm welcome from the crowd. Vice Mayor Rodrigo Dennis Uy and Board Member Goldie Herera supported the event, where Abalos emphasized the value of community empowerment and unity.
Meanwhile, in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, De Vera took part in the 49th Sinulog Festival on Jan. 16. The festival, known for its cultural and religious significance, drew large crowds. De Vera joined the celebrations and shared messages of hope and solidarity, reinforcing the importance of preserving traditions and supporting local communities.
Rep. Alfred “Apid” Delos Santos of Ang Probinsyano Partylist (APPL) commended both actors, who are also part of their growing roster of celebrity volunteers, for engaging with the public.
“The events in Bohol and Negros Occidental show the spirit of cooperation and compassion in our communities. We will continue pushing for programs that improve lives, and I appreciate Jason Abalos and JC De Vera for being part of these celebrations,” Rep. Delos Santos said.
Beyoncé leads Grammy nods but faces historic snub anew
MUSIC’S biggest stars, including Beyonce and Taylor Swift, will vie for top awards at Sunday’s Grammys gala, a glitzy ceremony proceeding despite devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
The shell-shocked entertainment capital is still reeling after the deadly blazes razed entire neighborhoods, leaving the music and film industries—vital to the city’s economy–grappling with how to navigate the coming awards season.
Many annual Grammy week functions were scrapped, including prominent parties organized by top labels and companies like Spotify.
But Harvey Mason Jr., the head of the Recording Academy behind the Grammys, said the gala would go on as planned at Crypto.com Arena “in close coordination with local authorities”—and” with an eye towards raising money for wildfire relief.
F R O N T R O W
Power should be from the least of us
By Chong Ardivilla
THERE have been notable films that involved the conclave of cardinals selecting the new Pope. The Godfather III is most notorious for embroiling the papacy within the clutches of simony (Francis Ford Coppola, 1990). However, Conclave (Edward Berger, 2024) offers a more intimate look into the selection process, with compounded problems that dog the Church from within.
Based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris the film adaptation Conclave might rile a lot of Catholics in terms of identity politics and woke cinema, but these zealots forget that this is a work of fiction.
If an adaptation of a fictional work makes you angry and you assert that it is destructive to the Church, your hold on your faith is transactional and tenuous. The fact that the Catholic Church has survived tumult for two millennia should assure the faithful that this movie will not disrupt the Church’s presence and power in the current global media landscape. Watch this movie because you crave superb storytelling.
If anything, Conclave is a masterpiece of filmmaking without bells and whistles, depicting a ritual that is centuries old. The
true center of this film is Ralph Fiennes, who plays the dean of the conclave, Cardinal Lawrence, and must ensure that the new pontiff is selected. His character navigates the different pulls of scandals and egos craving power while dealing with his inner turmoil.
There is no overt melodrama here. The restrained and measured acting is a breath of fresh air amidst other Oscar-nominated performances that rely on mimicry (Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, Sebastian Stan as 1980s Donald Trump) or blatant Oscar-bait drama (Adrien Brody in The Brutalist and Colman Domingo in Sing Sing). Ralph Fiennes deserves an Oscar for this film, but sadly, he does not engage in crass marketing or jockeying for favors from the Academy.
This is important to cite because Fiennes’ character is, indeed, one who is grounded but does not crave power or recognition. This is evident in his beleaguered character as he tries to be the solid core of the entire conclave while trouble brews both inside, within the power struggle, and outside, in the cruel terror of the world. Though that may seem boring, trust me when I say this film maintains sustained tension throughout. The palpable and thick possibility of destruction
‘Conclave’ is based on
The fires have lent prominence to the Recording Academy’s philanthropic arm, MusiCares, which says it has already distributed several millions of dollars in emergency aid.
On Friday, MusiCares will host its annual pre-Grammy gala—this year honoring psychedelic jam band rockers The Grateful Dead—bringing together top industry figures where relief efforts and honoring firefighters are set to take precedence.
is so deeply entrenched that even the revelation at the tail end serves as an ellipsis rather than an exclamation point.
Conclave reminds me of the tug-of-war between traditional conservatism and the progressive inclusionary group. Benedict XVI once said that he would rather the Church be small, that is, more contained, at the risk of shedding adherents in the name of sticking to conservatism and right-wing ideology.
Pope Francis, on the other hand, opens the Church to a more accepting approach. At the end of these two diametrical poles lie the validity and relevance of the Church. Conclave ensures that these issues are very much present—not to entertain you, but to make you reflect on your faith and your ability to allow others who do not align with your outlook a space in your life. Conclave is screened at Power Plant Mall Cinema. You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo. bsky.social
The night before, major event promoters Live Nation and AEG Presents will hold FireAid benefit concerts featuring A-listers like Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish, Dave Matthews, and John Mayer Beyonce and her groundbreaking Cowboy Carter album that vaunted Black cowboy culture lead this year’s Grammy hopefuls, with 11 chances at a prize.
The megastar is already the most nominated and most decorated Grammy winner, but also the most conspicuously snubbed: she’s never won the gala’s most prestigious Album and Record of the Year trophies.
Cowboy Carter is her fifth studio album vying for the top prize (she also was shortlisted as a featured artist on Lady Gaga’s The Fame Monster), with Swift – who has won it a record four times – among her rivals.
Though her sprawling double album The Tortured Poets Department left critics wanting, Swift – who just wrapped her record-setting Eras Tour – enters the night with six chances at Grammys gold.
Eilish, another perennial contender, has seven nominations, while a buzzy group of artists, including pop sensations Charli XCX (eight nods), Sabrina Carpenter (six), and Chappell Roan (six) are all in the running for major prizes.
Hip-hop laureate Kendrick Lamar, whose dig-heavy rap battle with Drake spawned “Now Like Us,” one of the year’s most viral songs, scored seven nods, and the shapeshifter Post Malone, who recently worked with both Beyonce and Swift, scored eight. Both are featured in the top categories.
The paradox of Beyonce never winning the big prizes has revived frequent criticism that the Recording Academy sidelines the work of Black artists.
Cowboy Carter is a rowdy, wide-ranging homage to her southern heritage that took to task the country industry, which has long promoted a rigid view of the genre that is overwhelmingly white and male.
Beyonce’s at-times tense relationship with the Grammys “has really illustrated the fault lines in how organizations think about style and think about genre, especially around race and gender lines,” said musicologist Lauron Kehrer
The closely watched Best New Artist contest features favorites Carpenter and Roan, who both skyrocketed into the mainstream over the past year.
Also in contention is Shaboozey, whose hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” topped the US hot songs chart for weeks and is up for the top Grammy honoring songwriting.
Shaboozey is also vying for the melodic rap award with Beyonce, whom he will also compete against in the country categories, in a sign that the Academy might be reading the room when it comes to songs and artists that defy categorization.
Artists including Eilish, Roan, Charli XCX, and Carpenter are due to take the stage, along with several more Best New Artist contenders like Doechii, Raye, Teddy Swims, and Benson Boone Legends Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and John Legend will also appear during the gala, paying tribute to legendary late producer Quincy Jones AFP
the 2016 novel written by Robert Harris
Jason Abalos graces the SB Night in Cortes, Bohol
JC De Vera delivers an inspiring message to the community of Negros Occidental at the 49th Sinulog Festival
Beyoncé is known
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
Federation of Filipino Chinese honors outstanding personalities
Embracing transformations this Year of the Wooden Snake
By Angelica Villanueva
THE Year of the Wooden Snake ushers in an exciting new chapter in 2025, bringing transformation and renewal. This year encourages letting go of the past and embracing new opportunities.
At the “Transformative Beginnings: Unlocking Wisdom, Wealth, & Wellness” event at Shangri-La Plaza in Manila, Feng Shui expert Venus Wang shared how the year’s unique astrological elements can impact personal and professional growth.
In Chinese astrology, 2025 combines Yin Wood energy with
the Snake zodiac. Yin Wood represents adaptability and resilience, like a flower thriving in various environments, while the Snake brings transformation, passion, and occasional volatility. Wang also warned of possible challenges from the interaction of these elements.
“So whatever you’ve been enjoying for the past few years, your comfort zone, your day-in, day-out work, probably is not going to be enough. So this year itself, you have to embrace diversity,” said Wang. “This year, you have to stand out. There’s no more of a comfort zone. This year, you have to make sure that you keep up with the
THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) hosted its Chinese New Year Dinner Reception and Awards Ceremony on Jan. 29 at Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant in Pasay City. The event celebrated the cultural significance of the Lunar New Year while recognizing seven distinguished Filipinos for their exceptional contributions to society.
The honorees were recognized for enriching the cultural, social, and economic ties between the Philippines and China, with a particular focus on how Filipino Chinese individuals have played a key role in the country’s development. The recognition also underscored the values of excellence, philanthropy, and unity and highlighted the importance of cultural exchange as the Filipino Chinese community continues to contribute to the Philippines’ growth.
Among the awardees was former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, recognized for her instrumental role in establishing diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China in 1975 with her late husband, President Ferdinand E. Marcos. Senator Imee Marcos, representing her mother, spoke about the Chinese roots of the Marcos family, further strengthening the historical bond between the two nations.
National Artist Ricky Lee was honored for his long-standing influence in Philippine cinema. Lee, the 2024 MMFF Best Screenplay award winner for Green Bones, was acknowledged for his contributions as a scriptwriter, playwright, novelist, and educator. His late father, Lee Hian Chin, who served as Secretary General of the Camarines Norte Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce, was also recognized for his contributions to the Filipino Chinese community.
Award-winning journalist Jessica Soho received recognition for her integrity and excellence in journalism. Soho’s recent documentary, tracing her family’s ancestral roots in Guangdong, China, exemplified her commitment to storytelling and cultural discovery. Designer Kenneth Cobonpue was honored for his groundbreaking work in global industrial design. Cobonpue has been instrumental in elevating Philippine craftsmanship through his innovative furniture designs, earning international recognition for the country’s design industry.
The FFCCCII, led by president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, is an umbrella organization representing 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce across the Philippines, from Aparri to Tawi Tawi. The federation continues its legacy of supporting various socio-civic initiatives, such as donating to rural public schools, aiding Filipino Chinese volunteer fire brigades, promoting Philippine economic growth, and strengthening Philippines-China relations.
This year’s celebration also coincided with the beginning of the 50th anniversary of Philippines-China diplomatic relations, which will be commemorated on June 5.
The event also highlights the growing global appreciation for Chinese traditions, evident in the UN’s recognition of the Spring Festival and its celebration across many countries, including Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, North America, Japan, Europe, and Latin America.
trend so that otherwise, you may be made redundant.”
The year 2025 continues Feng Shui’s Period Nine, a 20-year cycle dominated by fire energy, which began in 2024. Wang noted that industries associated with fire, such as technology, digital marketing, and entertainment, will flourish.
“For those aligned with fire energy, the next 20 years are full of potential. But even if the fire doesn’t complement your personal chart, there are ways to adapt—finding protective elements like water to balance the energy,” Wang explained.
Wang’s presentation included actionable advice for navigating the
year ahead. She encouraged attendees to focus on three areas: zodiac insights, environment optimization, and health and wellness.
For the zodiac insights, it is important to understand the interaction between individual birth charts and the Wooden Snake year.
“Your zodiac sign influences various aspects of your life, from relationships to career opportunities,” Wang stated.
On the other hand, for environmental optimization, Feng Shui enhancements for homes and workplaces can promote prosperity.
“The energy of your surroundings is a vital factor,” she emphasized.
While for health and wellness,
Wang shared that with fire dominating the year, she advised vigilance over heart and respiratory health.
“Stay calm, practice mindfulness, and make time for self-care,” she urged, suggesting yoga and herbal teas as remedies to counter fiery imbalances.
Aside from the Feng Shui forecast, Shangri-La Plaza also prepares a series of activities for the Chinese New Year.
From Jan. 25 to Jan. 29, the mall hosted the Lunar Lucky Fair at the Grand Atrium where mallgoers can find treats like mooncakes and tikoy and trinkets like lucky charms and mystic knots.
Shangri-La Plaza also hosts ‘Yee Sang Ceremony’ with some of its partners, gathering them for prosperity toss which symbolizes abundance and harmony,
Senator Imee Marcos (third from right) represents her mother, Imelda Marcos, for the award
Feng Shui expert Venus Wang discusses how the unique astrological elements of the Year of the Snake can influence both personal and professional growth
Very Wang Nickie Wang
From left: FFCCCII vice president Michael G. Tan, industrial designer Kenneth Cobunpue, broadcast journalist Jessica Soho, and FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro
National Artist Ricky Lee is recognized for his enduring impact on Philippine cinema
