Manila Standard - 2025 February 14 - Friday

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Marcos picks Dizon as new Transportation chief

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named Vince Dizon as the next head of the Department of Transportation, effective February 21, 2025.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said outgoing Transportation Sec-

retary Jaime Bautista resigned “due to health reasons.”

“He (Dizon) is already authorized by the Office of the President to start the transition at the DOTr in coordination with the team of Secretary Jaime Bautista,” Bersamin said.

In a statement, the DOTr said Bautista was stepping down from his position "with utmost integrity" after more than two years of service.

“Secretary Bautista thanked the President for the opportunity to work in government, which Bautista considered his most challenging stint. He also called his first government post most enriching.”

“Secretary Bautista looks forward to a smooth transition, after which a muchneeded vacation to recuperate from two and a half years of intense public service,” the DOTr added.

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay

TDOJ eyes case build-up to ensure VP conviction

Prosecutors may return complaint to NBI for 'higher level evidence'

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

THE National Prosecution Service may return the grave threats and inciting to sedition complaint filed by the National Bureau of Investigation against Vice President Sara Duterte for further case build-up, the Department of Justice said yesterday.

DOJ spokesman Mico Clavano said prosecutors are still evaluating the complaint which stemmed from verbal threats against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez that Duterte allegedly made during an online tirade.

If the NPS finds the complaint sufficient, it will move to conduct a preliminary investigation, he added.

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.

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

“The level that prosecutors are looking for now is not just probable cause but reasonable certainty of conviction. That requires a higher level of evidence to file a case in court,” Clavano said.

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-

“We are going to have to evaluate it (complaint) to make sure that we see all evidence submitted by the NBI,” he added. He said there will be no deadline for the NPS to complete its evaluation.

“This complaint is something that has reached national significance and it would be prudent to give them (NPS) the opportunity to verify, analyze, and evaluate the complaint,” he added.

Asked if the DOJ expects Duterte to appear should the complaint proceed to a preliminary investigation, Clavano said:

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte proclaimed the Partido Demokratikong Pilipino’s (PDP) nine senatorial candidates last night at the Club Filipino in San Juan City.

Cabinet members. “The Bilyonaryo article is mali cious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the

“Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added. Bilyonaryo reported online that “Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

THE businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.

questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.

“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.

adviser of former President Rodrigo Fortun, a lawyer who often finds himself at the center high-profile cases, apparently sought to mock congressmen, calling their probe

However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions

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.

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

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

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

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.

Duterte criticized the administration for the high price of rice.

Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

“Kagaya nitong bigas…it goes on, up and up and nahihirapan ang Pilipino to cope up.”

In a video message, Vice President Sara Duterte endorsed

“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 Armed Forces of the Philip pines (AFP) plans to shore up its weapons inventory with the acquisition of two submarines and an Indianmade short-range missile system in the face of China’s aggressive military presence in the West Philippines Sea.

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announce ment by China that it conducted

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

"Hopefully we can achieve that, within the specified time. Remember what we need is really funds in or der for us to achieve the objectives that (is) set for the Horizon 3 of the AFP Modernization Program," AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr. said Wednesday in a business forum.

“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to under stand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audience, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said.

Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but eventually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord -

By Rio N. Araja
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 and was involved in the drug trade and extrajudicial killings.

Palace leaves probe on threat vs. Sara to DOJ

MALACAÑANG is leaving the investigation into alleged threats against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Department of Justice (DOJ), saying it will allow due process to take its course.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, in an ambush interview, confirmed that the Palace is aware of the issue but will not interfere. "This is about a criminal investigation. The Department of Justice

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“It’s her right to submit her counteraffidavit, her defense. So we’re hoping that she will use it. Or she will take the chance, the opportunity, to clear her name.”

For his part, NBI Director Jaime Santiago denied allegations the agency is harassing Duterte with baseless criminal complaints.

“We are not harassing the Vice President. In fact, we respect her,” Santiago said.

“(But) remember, no one is above the law. Whoever violates the law – regardless of who that person is – we will hold them accountable,” he added.

Duterte earlier clarified that her “assassination” statement was not a threat, saying she only highlighted an alleged threat to her security.

She also said her remarks were “maliciously taken out of logical context.”

In her November 23 Zoom press conference, the Vice President said: “Wag kayong mag-alala sa security ko kasi may kinausap na akong tao. Sinabi ko sa kanya, ‘pag pinatay ako, patayin mo si BBM. si Liza Marcos, at si Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke. (Don't worry about my security because I already talked to someone. I told that person, 'If I am killed, then kill BBM, Liza Marcos and Martin Romualdez.')”

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Under the original AFP Modernization Program, which is divided into three phases known as Horizons, Horizon 1 spanned from 2013 to 2017, Horizon 2 covered 2018 to 2022, and Horizon 3 was set for 2023 to 2028.

However, the acquisition plan for Horizon 3 underwent significant revisions and was restructured as "Re-Horizon 3," which received approval in January 2024 and is now set to extend for 10 years.

The budget allocation for the AFP’s submarine acquisition program ranges between PHP 80 billion and PHP 110 billion.

This funding will cover the procurement of two submarines, as well as the necessary basing infrastructure and other logistical requirements.

The AFP chief emphasized the importance of a submarine capability, specifically diesel-electric types, due to the country’s archipelagic geography.

Meanwhile, reports have it that negotiations are wrapping up for the Philippines’ acquisition of Akash surface-to-air missiles from India’s Bharat Dynamics.

Unnamed sources from New Delhi supposedly revealed that Manila would place the first order for the missile system in the second quarter, in a deal costing some $200 million.

If the deal pans out, the mediumrange air defense system will be the AFP’s second major missile acquisition from India’s defense sector.

It can be recalled that in 2022, the Philippines purchased BrahMos supersonic cruise from BrahMos Aerospace, a Russo-Indian joint venture.

Department of Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong refused to comment on the reported missile acquisition but said the Philippines indeed has need of such capabilities.

As this developed, the Philippine military expressed hope that longtime ally South Korea would join the IndoPacific alliance "Squad" with the US, Australia and Japan.

Brawner asserts that including South Korea in the Squad—a multilateral security partnership among allied nations—will enhance the collective capabilities of Manila, Washington, Tokyo, and Canberra.

“We believe they also have a stake in the security aspect of the region,” Brawner said Wednesday, Feb. 12.

will have the fullest autonomy. You cannot give directions as far as these matters go," Bersamin said.

When asked whether Duterte’s statement—widely interpreted as a conditional threat rather than an assassination plot—was a reasonable argument, Bersamin declined to comment.

"I don't know. We will leave that in the hands of the investigators," he said.

Meanwhile, former Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, chief presidential legal counsel, weighed in on the statement, pointing out its legal implications.

He cited the Latin principle "Actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea"—which translates to "An act does not make a person guilty unless the mind is also guilty"—suggesting that Duterte’s remark contains key elements of a criminal case: a guilty act and a guilty mind. "If an attempt on Duterte’s life were to occur, BBM, Liza Araneta, and Romualdez could become immediate suspects, even if innocent," Enrile said, warning of possible political fallout. He also cautioned that external groups or even individuals within both political factions could exploit the situation for their own interests.

Cambodian envoy bids farewell, thanks Marcos for PH-Cambodia ties

Marcos...

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During his tenure, Bautista ensured the continued implementation of major infrastructure projects such as the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway.

He also presided over the landmark privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Dizon, for his part, previously served as president and chief executive officer of BCDA during the administration of then President Rodrigo Duterte.

He also held the positions of presidential adviser for flagship programs and projects and was the deputy chief implementer of the National Task Force Against COVID-19.

Dizon also received one of the highest civilian honors – the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Bayani – for his key contributions to the Build Build Build program and the country’s response to the Covid 19 pandemic.

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review of the law should begin with identifying which sectors need representation in Congress.

"Any such review should start by asking, 'What are the sectors in Philippine society today that need representation in Congress?' This list should be exhaustive and exclude sectors that do not require representation. Once identified, we can then decide how to elect representatives for each sector," he said.

The Senate leader pointed out that a similar approach had already been taken in the law creating the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

"We have done something similar in the BARMM law, where we distinguished sectoral representatives from party representatives," he explained.

The appointment of Dizon, currently the chief regulatory officer of Prime Infrastructure, was welcomed by several lawmakers and transport leaders.

CAMBODIAN Ambassador to the Philippines Phan Peuv on Thursday expressed gratitude to the Philippine government for its “unwavering support and commitment” during his tenure, emphasizing the importance of strong bilateral ties between the two nations.

"For the past three years, I have been privileged to work with you to further push our bilateral relations and cooperation in common areas," Phan told President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. during a farewell call at Malacañang.

"Recently, the fruitful outcome of the official visit of Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, further strengthened our partnership," he added.

Phan, who assumed his post on May 25, 2022, said serving as Cambodia’s envoy to the Philippines had been a "great honor and privilege."

His departure follows the twoday official visit of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and his delegation earlier this week.

“We want to congratulate Secretary Vince Dizon on his appointment and thank him for taking on such an enormous task at this critical time,” said Senator Grace Poe, who heads the Senate public services committee.

“We are confident that with his skills and experience, he could fast track the urgently needed reforms and projects under the department. The new DOTR chief can count on our support in bringing relief to our commuting public and lasting solutions to our transportation sector,” she added.

“When you need a job done, you hire Vince and the job gets done. I am sure he will bury himself in the work of the DOTr immediately. I am also certain of quick confirmation by the Commission on Appointments,” Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said.

Deputy Majority Leader Franz Pumaren noted Dizon's “proven track record in infrastructure development

or military, seven have corruption cases, and eleven have questionable advocacies. Nine party-lists also provided limited information in the forms they submitted to the Commission on Elections.

In 2013, the Supreme Court (SC) ruled that sectoral parties or organizations seeking accreditation under the party-list system may be either "marginalized and underrepresented" or lacking in "well-defined political constituencies."

The SC identified marginalized and underrepresented sectors as including labor, peasants, fisherfolk, urban poor, indigenous cultural communities, persons with disabilities, veterans, and overseas workers.

Meanwhile, professionals, the elderly, women, and youth are considered groups that lack "well-defined political constituencies," according to the SC.

and the expertise to ensure the completion of the administration’s ambitious transport projects.”

“We need a DoTr chief who can get things done, and Secretary Dizon is exactly that. His leadership and experience in handling large-scale infrastructure projects will help ensure that long-delayed transport initiatives are finally completed,” he said.

Senator Joel Villanueva added:

“We look forward to working with the agency under Secretary Dizon’s leadership, particularly in tackling the country’s traffic challenges, ensuring safe and efficient transport, and advancing transportation infrastructure which are vital in driving the country’s economic progress.”

Pasang Masda national president Obet Martin welcomed Dizon's appointment as he urged the incoming Transportation chief to continue existing agency programs, especially the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program and the government's fuel subsidy program for jeepney drivers.

PDP-Laban...

the PDP candidates, saying in Filipino, “I am confident that the people have the power to change how the country is run by voting for the right candidates… who will honestly and patiently serve the nation. The PDP formally introduced its nine-member Senate slate, which includes lawyer Victor Rodriguez, the former executive secretary and spokesperson of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The PDP slate also includes incumbent Senators Bato dela Rosa, Christopher ‘Bong’ Go, along with lawyers Raul Lambino, Jayvee Hinlo and Jimmy Bondoc (also a singer) with former actor Philip Salvador. Joining them in the slate are close allies SAGIP party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta.

President Marcos lauded the meeting as “very successful and productive,” highlighting key discussions on agriculture, education, trade, and investments.

The President noted that his past engagements with Hun Manet during international forums have consistently led to meaningful discussions.

"During the ASEAN, APEC meetings, Prime Minister Hun Manet and I have always been somehow discussing many, many things about both our countries and the similarities," Mr. Marcos said.

"That’s why I think that led to the very productive meetings that we had the other day when he came to visit," he added.

The Philippines and Cambodia established diplomatic relations in 1957, fostering a partnership that has evolved through bilateral cooperation and regional collaboration.

All candidates were present at the event, except detained Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who sent a video message. The PDP bets are campaigning under the advocacy of “Tapang at Malasakit,” underscoring the continuation of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s fight against illegal drugs, criminality, and corruption.

Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, known for his role in the Duterte administration’s controversial anti-drug campaign, Tokhang, vowed to sustain his efforts against illegal drugs if re-elected.

He also dismissed accusations from President Marcos’ speech at Tuesday's Alyansa ng Bayan proclamation rally that he has "blood on his hands" due to the violent crackdown on illegal drugs. Dela Rosa defended his actions, saying he has no regrets as long as the work benefitted the Filipino people. Quiboloy, through a video message, reinforced PDP’s hardline stance on national security and governance.

“Even if we say that this is an informal security architecture, we believe that more countries joining this will be beneficial because we are promoting, in fact, the same objectives, which is to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific, and also a rules-based international order,” he added.

On Wednesday, election watchdog Kontra Daya revealed that 55.13%—or 85 of the 156 party-list groups seeking seats in the House of Representatives—do not represent the poor or underrepresented sectors.

According to Kontra Daya, forty party-list groups have ties to political clans, twenty-five to large businesses, eighteen to the police

"The nominees of sectoral parties or organizations that represent either the 'marginalized and underrepresented' or those who lack 'welldefined political constituencies' must either belong to their respective sectors or have a track record of advocacy for these sectors," the SC stated.

The SC also ruled that national and regional parties or organizations may participate in the partylist system. AFP...

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Recognizing the high demand for these visits on Valentine's Day, the Manila City Jail has adjusted its schedule for Friday, extending the visiting hours from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. This extended timeframe will allow more couples to take advantage of the special Valentine's Day arrangement. However, the intimate moments will be limited. Each conjugal visit will be restricted to a maximum of 15 minutes to allow as many couples as possible to participate in the Valentine's Day program. The jail administration has balanced the desire to provide a special occasion for inmates and their families with the logistical realities of managing a large facility.

FAREWELL CALL. Cambodian Ambassador to the Philippines Phan Peuv and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shake hands as the former wraps up his diplomatic duties in Manila on February 13, 2025. PCO

VERIFICATION. Commission on Elections chair George Garcia leads the first day of ballot verification for the May 12 national and local elections at the Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City on Thursday. Joan Bondoc

Comelec warns bets vs. ‘sure win’ scheme

THE Commission on Elections (Come-

lec) cautioned political candidates from falling for syndicates that promise a sure win in the coming May 2025 poll, saying there is no such thing as a “pre-shaded ballot” that is impossible to achieve.

Poll chairman George Erwin Garcia made the remarks during the inspection of the ballot verification at the Amoranto Stadium in Quezon City on Thursday, after reports that some people claimed that “secret shading” could be embedded on the ballots.

“To those who still believe in lies that there are invisible pre-shaded ballots, how can they say that the shade is invisible when all the ballots were fed into the machine to test if there were other markings?” Garcia said.

Garcia said the automated counting machines (ACMs) to be used in the coming polls and the printing of ballots are safeguarded by security and election watchdogs 24/7.

He said printed ballots are verified and displayed “Passed” on the screen before they are sealed in plastic.

During the ballot verification process, Garcia said the verifiers manually reject the ballots if they have torn parts and ink smudges.

“If the ballot is already rejected by the verifier, it no longer has to be verified by the ACMs, and vice versa,” Garcia said.

PBBM: ‘Skills matching’ necessary

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday emphasized the importance of skills matching in securing stable employment, as he oversaw the “Trabaho sa Bagong Pilipinas Para sa 4Ps” job fair at the Iloilo Sports Complex.

“One of the common challenges in job hunting is that applicants’ skills don’t always align with the roles they apply for,” Mr. Marcos said.

“We are helping them find jobs that match their skill set,” he added.

The initiative, launched by the Office of the President on Jan. 31 in Ma-

nila, aims to assist beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in transitioning from government aid to financial independence. It is being implemented in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Labor and Employment

DSWD says 4Ps benefits close to 9 million minors

CLOSE to 9 million 0-18 year-old-children are being supported by the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) which provides cash grants to help them attend school and keep them healthy.

AND DEDICATION. San Miguel Corp. chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang awards airport worker Ronald Gadayan with P200,000 in cash and Purefoods products. Gadayan

Death of NPA leader brings justice—Galido

PHILIPPINE Army Chief LtGen. Roy Galido said that the death of Myrna Sularte, alias “Maria Malaya,” a top leader of the New People’s Army and secretary of the Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC), brings justice to the victims of the group’s violence and marks a turning point in the fight against terrorism in Mindanao.

Galido emphasized that Sularte’s death will help end the reign of terror in the region.

Sularte, widow of former National Operations Command (NOC) and Komisyong Mindanao (KOMMID) leader Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, and successor to Wilma and Benito Tiamzon, was killed in an encounter with the 30th Infantry Battalion under the 901st Infantry Brigade on February 12 in Sitio Imelda, Brgy. Pianing, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.

“This is the primary objective of the program – to keep the children healthy so that they can go to school and eventually get a fighting chance to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty in their families,” the agency’s Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the DSWD spokesperson, said.

The DSWD official said the program is on the right track in meeting this objective emphasizing that as a human capital development program, the 4Ps was able to help 1,013,769 monitored youth to graduate from high school, and 476,289 monitored 4Ps children to complete the elementary level, as of December 2024.

Close to 40,000 former 4Ps beneficiaries also became board passers with 65 of them topping various licensure examinations.

According to Dumlao, the 4Ps has more than 4 million active households in 2024, with the largest number coming from the Bicol Region having 377,147 4Ps members.

Dumlao said the 4Ps also continues to remain inclusive with members of the vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, solo parents, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities being among the program beneficiaries.

As of December 2024, a total of 1,223,183 senior citizens, 284,800 solo parents, 269,747 indigenous peoples, and 50,200 persons with disabilities were among the 4Ps beneficiaries receiving the cash grants to help them send their eligible children to school and keep them healthy.

The DSWD spokesperson said the 4Ps operates across all 18 regions in the country, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“Despite logistical challenges in the BARMM, the 4Ps continues to serve 230,463 active households in the region,” Dumlao pointed out.

“It is also interesting to share that as of December 2024, 86 percent of the total 4.4 million registered grantees were female while 13.98 percent were male,” she added.

Launched in 2008 and institutionalized by Republic Act (RA) 11310 in 2019, the 4Ps is the national poverty reduction strategy and human capital investment program that provides conditional cash transfer to poor households for a maximum period of seven years to improve their children’s health, nutrition and education.

(DOLE), and other agencies.

With over 2,500 applicants registered and 2,000 positions available, he expressed confidence that many job seekers would secure employment.

He stressed that skills assessment and job matching would bridge gaps between applicants and employers, ensuring a better fit for long-term stability.

All beneficiaries will undergo pre-employment orientation and receive P3,000 in food assistance through DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) will provide additional employ-

ment support, while those hired on the spot will receive up to P5,000 under the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) to cover pre-employment expenses such as clearances, medical exams, and other requirements.

DOLE has partnered with 27 employers to facilitate hiring opportunities, while 15 government agencies are onsite to assist with inquiries and services.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) also organized an expo featuring 42 exhibitors under the KADIWA ng Pangulo program, giving local producers a platform to showcase their goods.

IN BRIEF

Yamsuan reminds police on rule of law in May

REP. Brian Raymund Yamsuan of Bicol Saro party-list reminded the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure that the rule of law prevails and that the rights of citizens are protected in carrying out its 100-day security plan to ensure the orderly and peaceful conduct of the May 2025 elections.

At the same time, Saro also commended PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil for rolling out the security plan, which the latter said would focus on the deployment of personnel in election hotspots, the setting up of checkpoints, and intensified intelligence operations.

Marbil said that in the implementation of the 100-day security plan, the PNP will also prioritize the dismantling of private armed groups, pursuing wanted persons, and stepping up operations against unlicensed firearms.

Yamsuan said PNP personnel should also keep in mind that they are to remain non-partisan in carrying out their duties and responsibilities. Maricel V. Cruz

DMW: Japan centers are not recruiters

THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Thursday warned Filipinos seeking job opportunities in Japan that Japanese Language Training Centers are not authorized to recruit workers for overseas work.

In a statement, DMW Officer-in-Charge Bernard P. Olalia said that language instruction for employees should only take place following their completion of the pre-qualification and selection procedures carried out by their Japanese employers.

He also said that companies and not applicants, should pay for the training.

“Candidates will be directed to language training centers only after they submit the required documents and undergo the selection process by Japanese employers. This is part of the deployment process for the Technical Internship Training Program (TITP) and the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) program, not for employment referrals,” Olalia said. Vito Barcelo

Navy, group sign pact on training

THE Philippine Navy and the Magsaysay Group of Companies signed a memorandum of agreement on Wednesday to enhance maritime and security training. Navy spokesperson Captain John Percie Alcos stated that the agreement, signed by Flag Officer Command Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta and Magsaysay Group president and CEO Doris Magsaysay-Ho, will bolster Maritime Domain Awareness, implement training programs, and contribute to a more secure maritime environment.

The Magsaysay Group has long been a key player in the Philippine maritime industry, providing training and opportunities for Filipino seafarers.

“By aligning your strengths with the Philippine Navy, you are contributing to a greater cause that guarantees the security of our seas while enhancing the capabilities of our mariners and sailors. This partnership speaks volumes about your corporate citizenship and patriotism, and the importance of working together to shape a secure maritime future,” Ezpeleta said. Rex Espiritu

CAAP conducts meeting on drone

THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has held an interagency meeting to enhance drone regulations and safety enforcement, promoting responsible drone usage.

The meeting, led by General Ricardo Banayat, involved key stakeholders from various agencies, including the Director General’s Office, the Department of Trade and Industry, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, and the Office of the President’s Anti-Terrorism Council.

The discussions centered on enhancing the enforcement of existing drone regulations, streamlining administrative processes for drone users, and improving coordination among agencies.

A major topic was the establishment of designated drone parks or zones to provide a safe and legal space for both recreational and professional drone operations. To ensure compliance, CAAP is also planning to introduce an accessible online registration system along with a comprehensive safety program. Joel E. Zurbano

MARITIME TRAINING PACT. Officers of the Philippine Navy and representatives of the Magsaysay Group of Companies sign an agreement on training programs to contribute to the development of a more secure and resilient maritime environment for the country.
HONESTY
was praised for his honesty and for returning some P6 million cash he found lost in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport restrooms throughout the years.

PNP-ACG warns vs. ‘love scams’

THE Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) warned the public against the so-called “love scammers’ who prey on single individuals looking for love or a partner for Valentine’s Day.

According to PNP-ACG spokesman Lt. Wallen Arancillo, they are monitoring incidents of “love scams” done mostly through the internet or social media. Last year, the PNP-ACG recorded 72 love scam cases. This year, eight incidents have so far been logged.

TNVS players hit LTFRB for policy lapses

A COALITION of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) operators and drivers on Thursday filed an omnibus petition with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to address alleged unfair fare policies, unregulated booking systems and a spate of violations by transport network companies.

At a media briefing in Quezon City, Jackson Tan of the United Transportation Coalition Philippines, along with Lady Ann Garcia and Gerric Asuncion, scored the LTFRB for “failure to update fare rates amid rising fuel prices.” Tan expressed dismay over the lack of a fixed minimum fare for shortdistance trips, and violations of the law on discounts for senior citizens, people with disability, and students.

According to Tan, the last fare increase for the TNVS sector was in 2019.

“Despite the increases in fuel prices over the past six years, the LTFRB has failed to adjust the fare rates for TNVS,” the group asserted, adding that “the current fare matrix has not been amended to reflect economic realities, causing TNVS drivers and operators to suffer financially.””

“The eight cases are higher compared to the seven cases last year during the same period,” Arancillo noted. Victims of love scams were usually persons pretending to be homecoming retired soldiers. The scheme involves shipping a package back home, but the

recipient must first pay a substantial amount in purported delivery fee.

ACG records show that the largest amount lost in a love scam case was P600,000.

Last month, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) and Scam Watch Pilipinas relaunched an awareness campaign against love scams.

Scam Watch co-convenor Jocel De Guzman said love scams often serve as a gateway for other types of scams such as loan or investment scams.

“What makes love scams particularly painful is the double agony — breaking someone’s heart while also stealing

their money,” De Guzman said. De Guzman said the public should watch out for photos that seem too perfect to be true that a person is posting in an unverified social media account.

“Another red flag is if the person consistently refuses video calls, avoids meeting in person, and — perhaps the most common warning sign — starts asking for money. This could include requests for personal funds, investments, or even loans,” he said.

CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos called on the public to report any scams they encounter through hotline 1326.

DOGGONE DAY. The San Juan City government under Mayor Francis Zamora takes a rather dogmatic move to protect four-legged pets by spearheading a free spay and neuter services for cats and dogs. Manny Palmero

IN BRIEF

PNP-CIDG nabs FL kin for extort attempt

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has confirmed that Margarita Cacho, a candidate for governor in Guimaras and cousin of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, was arrested in an entrapment operation conducted recently by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

Police Regional Office 6 director

Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky said Cacho, along with her secretary Cayetano Leal of Brgy. Misi, Lambunao and two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel, were arrested during the raid.

“This is no ordinary crime. The suspect’s modus operandi involves falsely guaranteeing government contracts to contractors in exchange for large sums of money,” Wanky said in a press conference Wednesday. He also confirmed that the suspect is a cousin of the First Lady based on their initial investigation. Vince Lopez

BOC intercepts

Sorsogon province.

The BOC, in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, intercepted a fourteenwheeler truck loaded with goods while enroute to Masbate province..

“ The importation of second-hand clothes is illegal. Republic Act 4653 prohibits the commercial

Vito Barcelo

PH, UN eye stronger criminal justice system

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) will be holding a discussion to strengthen criminal justice in the country, especially on intensified enforcement of cybercrime laws. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla will lead a group of Philippine officials to iron out the details of the partnership with UNODC executive director Ghada Fathi Waly. The meeting is set to take place on the sidelines of the 68th Session of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna, Austria. The discussants are looking at forging an agreement to cover the various justice sector programs, including prison reform and forensics in May. Pot Chavez Leonen stresses need to cleanse tax system

SUPREME Court (SC) senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen has stressed the need to combat corruption in the tax system “which has evolved into more complex forms.” “We do need to confront corruption at every turn. Over time, corruption has evolved into more sophisticated forms, some of which can be nearly unrecognizable. If we are not vigilant enough, as the landscape shifts, our approach to combating it must also adapt," said Leonen during the Tax Management Association of the Philippines’ (TMAP) induction ceremonies. Leonen said it requires creativity, innovation, and collaboration to effectively tackle its challenges of corruption in present time. Pot Chavez

PDEA incinerates P331.2-m illegal drugs in Zamboanga del Sur

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has destroyed P331.2 million worth of illegal drugs in Region 9, the largest of such activity ever conducted in the region.

PDEA regional director Maharani Gadaoni-Tosoc spearheaded the destruction of more than 48,689 grams of shabu and 1,041 pieces of expired medi-

cines, as well as 37 kilos of shabu seized from two separate raids in Zamboanga City last year.

The incineration of the illegal drugs through took place at the Libertad Power and Energy Corp. in Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur. According to the PDEA, the destruction was carried out in compli-

Binay backs WHO on free cancer drugs

SENATORIAL candidate and Makati City May-

or Abigail Binay has expressed support for the World Health Organization’s plan to provide free cancer medicines to children in low- and middle-income countries.

“This is great news, especially for the Philippines, where cancer is a leading cause of death among children. Access to free cancer medicines would bring immense relief to families of pediatric cancer patients, who are heavily burdened by the high costs of treatment,” Binay said.

She emphasized that providing free access to life-saving medicines and treatments for Filipinos, particularly low-income families, is one of her top

priorities if elected to the Senate.

“Ensuring free access to life-saving yet expensive medicines for patients with cancer or other serious illnesses—especially those from poor families—is one of the advocacies I plan to pursue in the Senate,” she said.

“Having cancer should not be a death sentence for those who cannot afford medication or treatment, whether it’s chemotherapy or radiation. Children with cancer need support to heal, grow, and pursue their dreams,” she added. Binay expressed hope that the WHO will soon include the Philippines as a pilot site for this initiative, which currently covers six countries: Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Ecuador, Jordan, Nepal, and Zambia.

ance with directives issued by the lower courts of Pagadian City, Molave, Aurora and Zamboanga City, and in coordination with key government agencies and stakeholders.

Tosoc said the event underscored the agency’s relentless efforts in the war against illegal drugs.

“This is a testament to our unwaver-

ing commitment to eliminating illegal drugs and ensuring these confiscated substances will never reach the streets again,” she noted.

With the record-breaking destruction, PDEA 9 vowed to continue strengthening its anti-drug campaign, assuring the public of its dedication to a drug-free community. Rio N. Araja

NOT ONE STAR MISSING. Without the smog, stargazers can have an untrammelled vision of a star-studded sky such as this image viewed from Mt. Sto. Tomas in Tuba, Benguet. Dave Leprozo
USUFRUCT DEAL. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas concludes a Deed of Usufruct entrusting the Old Jaro Municipal Hall to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). ‘By

OPINION

Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigrants

FILIPINO communities in the United States are reported to be on tenterhooks—or a state of suspense and agitation—over the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

Since his return to the White House on Jan. 20, Trump has signed a raft of immigration-related executive orders to strictly enforce US border policy, tighten visa-vetting procedures and clamp down on illegal immigrants.

He has also suspended refugee admissions and sought to end to birthright citizenship, although a court has temporarily blocked the move to end automatic US citizenship for children born to unauthorized immigrants on US soil.

Migrant communities across the US are worried that Trump’s tougher immigration policy could potentially lead to unjust treatment of migrants, regardless of their status. Trump’s immigration crackdown puts those with pending residency papers at risk and raises the prospect of imminent deportation for those staying in the United States illegally.

At present, there are an estimated 350,000 undocumented immigrants from the Philippines in the US, according to data from the US Department of Homeland Security. The US Census Bureau says there are more than 4 million Filipino-Americans in the entire country.

About 2.14 million of Fil-Ams were registered voters at the last count, and political analysts have said Filipino Americans were crucial in helping Trump sweep all seven swing states during the US polls in Nov. 2024. But even if many of them voted for Trump, it is ironic that he has targeted undocumented Filipinos and wants them sent back to the Philippines.

Our officials have allayed fears that mass deportations of undocumented Filipino immigrants would happen soon. They said those who entered the US legally should have nothing to fear but vowed that Manila would be ready to assist any Filipinos in need.

Last month, the Philippine Embassy in Washington said there were 16 Filipino nationals in the custody of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 15 of whom have deportation orders and one with a pending case.

News reports have quoted Foreign Affairs Secretary Eduardo Manalo as saying that Filipinos generally have a “good reputation” in the US because they contribute to such fields as healthcare, banking and hotel services.

For his part, Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega has stated that Trump is targeting illegal immigrants who have been involved

in crime or those not contributing to the US economy.

He clarified that Filipinos are productive members of the US economy and many of them are conservatives.

In a recent article, Atty. Arnedo S. Valera, executive director of the Global Migrant Heritage Foundation and head of a US immigration and anti-discrimination law firm for more than 32 years, has urged undocumented Filipinos to seek legal guidance from licensed immigration attorneys who can provide insights into possible options, including guidance on family-based petitions and other legal remedies.

Can the undocumented Filipinos pick up the pieces of shattered dreams and start life anew here?

Legal options are restricted, Valera argued, with the primary means for relief coming from family-based petitions.

A genuine, bona fide marriage to a US citizen can provide some hope for legal status, but this avenue is neither simple nor accessible for everyone. Individuals with prior violations face additional hurdles.

For green card holders who have run afoul of the law, the situation is just as dire. Their previous immigration violations and criminal records could make them a priority for deportation.

While the Filipino community is known for their resilience and adaptability to conditions in their adopted home, Valera said new pressures under the Trump administration will force undocumented Filipinos to prepare and empower themselves to face a daunting challenge.

Though the way forward may be uncertain, he concluded, access to accurate information and legal assistance can provide essential support, offering hope and clarity in an otherwise bleak landscape.

Many of us have family members and relatives who have chosen to leave everything behind and chase the American dream.

But the undocumented ones who had hoped to improve their lot in the United States may have to return home not on their own volition, but under extreme pressure from the current Trump administration.

Can they pick up the pieces of shattered dreams and start life anew here?

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Can Sara Duterte escape accountability?

(Last of 2 parts)

III. Political implications

The Marcos-Duterte Rift

If Duterte resigns before trial, she deprives Marcos Jr.’s allies of the ability to remove her through impeachment, weakening their control over the process.

Conversely, if the Senate proceeds, it signals a new power shift within Congress, where Marcos Jr. may be consolidating anti-Duterte forces.

Impact on 2028 Presidential Elections

If Duterte is disqualified, it removes a major contender from the presidential race, benefiting potential Marcos-backed candidates.

If she survives the trial, she could emerge politically stronger, framing

herself as a victim of political persecution.

Risk of Destabilization

A prolonged impeachment battle, especially if seen as politically motivated, could deepen polarization and trigger public unrest.

This battle is not just legal – it is deeply political

IV. Ethical considerations Legitimacy of the Process

If the impeachment is perceived as weaponized justice, it could erode public trust in institutions.

EDITORIAL

Comprehensive traffic plan for Metro Manila

HOW do you solve the horrendous traffic situation in Metro Manila?

First, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met earlier this month with the chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and heads of the departments of Transportation, Interior and Local Government, and Public Works and Highways to discuss the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan for Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

The CTMP seeks to create an “inclusive, people-oriented, sustainable mobility system” by enhancing transportation infrastructure and implementing an effective traffic management strategy.

Part of the CTMP is the proposal of the MMDA to close the EDSA busway and allow motorcycles to use the bike lanes on Metro Manila’s busiest thoroughfare.

The closure of the EDSA busway is premised on the substantial expansion of the passenger capacity of the Metro Rail Transit 3.

With the MRT3 able to accommodate more passengers, the bus lane would be redundant since both ply the same route, according to the MMDA.

The EDSA busway could be turned into a “special lane” that may be used by “high occupancy vehicles” or pri-

Conversely, if officials can resign to escape accountability, it sets a dangerous precedent for future corruption cases.

Due Process Rights of the Accused

If the Senate proceeds, Duterte must be given a fair opportunity to defend herself, ensuring that the trial does not become a rubber-stamp decision.

V. Conclusion

A. The Most Likely Scenario

If Duterte resigns, the Senate will face pressure to halt proceedings, citing the Gutierrez precedent.

Given the political climate, Marcos-aligned lawmakers may push to continue to secure a disqualification ruling.

The Supreme Court is likely to intervene if Duterte challenges the

vate vehicles with three to four passengers. But no less than a total 23 civil society organizations have vehemently opposed the government’s plan to close the EDSA busway and allow motorcycles to use the bike lanes on Metro Manila’s busiest thoroughfare.

The group urged the MMDA to prioritize clearing the Mabuhay Lanes of traffic obstructions and illegal parking

Instead, the CSOs and the group Move as One Coalition advocating safer and more humane public transport urged the government “to work together to put the needs of pedestrians, including those who take public transportation, and people on bicycles, that’s contained in the transportation policy statement in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.

This plan clearly puts the needs of pedestrians and cyclists above those of other road users.

The suggestion to close the EDSA busway “makes no sense,” the groups said. “What could be higher occupancy than a bus?” they asked. After all, bus-

trial’s legitimacy.

B. Policy Recommendations

Clarify the Constitutional Process Congress should pass legislation or constitutional amendments specifying whether impeachment can proceed after resignation.

Establish Clearer Grounds for Disqualification

The Senate should define under what conditions an official can be disqualified post-resignation.

Strengthen Anti-Corruption Mechanisms

The Philippines should expand alternative legal mechanisms (e.g., criminal prosecution) to hold officials accountable outside of impeachment.

Vice President Duterte’s potential resignation before her impeachment trial presents a high-stakes Constitutional test.

es carry more passengers—an average of 46.5—than private vehicles which could carry an average of 1.7 passengers, based on a 2022 Japan International Cooperation Agency report.

The CSOs observed the MMDA proposal also contradicted the stand of the DOTr that described the busway “as a crucial step toward a progressive public transportation system with 23 stations operating 24/7, affording commuters a safe and reliable option for transport.”

The groups also expressed serious misgivings about the Interior department’s announcement that plans to “modify” the bicycle lanes to become a shared space with motorcycles to reduce the risk of motorcycle riders being involved in road crashes.

“There is no road safety guidance that suggests that bicycles and motorcycles should mix in the same road space,” the CSOs said. Top of Form

Bottom of Form

The Management Association of the Philippines has also strongly opposed the proposed closure of the EDSA busway, urging instead the enhancement and full utilization of the Mabuhay Lanes to help ease Metro Manila’s traffic congestion.

The group urged the MMDA to prioritize clearing the Mabuhay Lanes of traffic obstructions and illegal parking, rather than dismantling the EDSA busway.

Would all these proposals work? We really hope so.

While historical precedent suggests resignation halts proceedings, the argument for continuing the trial—based on disqualification—has legal merit.

The Senate’s decision will set a precedent for how impeachment is used as an accountability mechanism in the future.

This battle is not just legal – it is deeply political.

The outcome will shape the balance of power between the Marcos and Duterte factions and define the credibility of the country’s democratic institutions.

If the impeachment process is seen as fair and transparent, it could strengthen democratic norms. If it is perceived as a political maneuver, it risks further destabilizing the country.

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of a grinning man carrying a massive bouquet of different colorful flowers that is spilling from his arms. The bouquet is labeled “Romantic Love.” Next to the grinning man is a lone pot of cactus labeled “love for humanity.’’

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea is demolishing a venue that for decades hosted tearful reunions of families separated by the Korean War and the division of the country, Seoul said Thursday, calling the move “inhumane.”

Millions of people were swept apart by the 1950-53 Korean War, which split the peninsula and separated brothers and sisters, parents and children and husbands and wives.

Hostilities ceased with an armistice rather than a peace treaty, leaving the two Koreas technically still at war and with all direct civilian exchanges prohibited.

Emotional reunions in the North’s Kumgang mountain served as a testament to the devastating human cost of the division. But the meetings were subject to the vagaries of inter-Korea politics and often used as a negotiating tool by Pyongyang. The last one was held in 2018.

“The demolition of the Mount Kumgang Reunion Center is an inhumane act that tramples on the earnest wishes of separated families,” a spokesperson for Seoul’s unification ministry said.

South Korea “sternly urges an immediate halt to such actions” and “expresses strong regret”.

“North Korea’s unilateral demolition cannot be justified under any pretext, and the North Korean authorities must bear full responsibility for this situation,” the spokesperson added.

Since 1988, around 130,000 South Koreans have registered their “separated families”. AFP

IN BRIEF

High wind halts Fukushima dismantling

TOKYO – Gusty winds prevented the operator of Japan’s crippled Fukushima nuclear plant from starting to dismantle treated water tanks on Thursday, a crucial step towards decommissioning the entire facility. The “water tank dismantling has been postponed because of strong winds,” Tatsuya Matoba, a Tokyo Electric Power Company spokesperson, told AFP.

“The process could start from tomorrow depending on weather conditions”, he added.

The step was seen as a milestone in TEPCO’s decades-long project to decommission the stricken plant in northern Japan, which went into meltdown after it was hit by a catastrophic tsunami in 2011.

Officials were to have started the process on Thursday to get rid of some of the tanks to clear space needed to store nuclear debris to be extracted from the plant’s reactors.

TEPCO has stored around 1.3 million tons of water -- a combination of groundwater, seawater and rainwater -- at the site, along with water used for cooling the reactors, since the 2011 accident. AFP

Australia, China exchange aircraft accusations

SYDNEY – Australia rebuked Beijing on Thursday for “unsafe” military conduct, accusing a Chinese fighter jet of dropping flares near an Australian air force plane patrolling the South China Sea.

The Australian plane was flying a “routine” surveillance patrol over the contested waters on February 11 when a Chinese fighter jet approached, the defense department said.

The Shenyang J-16 strike jet “released flares in close proximity” to the Australian Poseidon surveillance plane, the department said.

But Beijing accused an Australian military plane of “violating Chinese sovereignty” after Canberra said a Chinese fighter jet had dropped flares near its aircraft as it patrolled the South China Sea.

“The Australian military aircraft deliberately intruded into the airspace around China’s Xisha Islands,” foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said, using the Chinese name for the Paracel Islands. AFP

Islamic State group claims suicide bombing

KABUL – The Islamic State group claimed a suicide bombing of a bank in north Afghanistan that killed eight people, saying on Wednesday it was targeting Taliban government employees collecting salaries the previous day.

Violence has waned in Afghanistan since the Taliban surged back to power and ended their insurgency in 2021, but the Islamic State (IS) group frequently stages gun and bomb attacks challenging their rule. A suicide bomber attacked the front of a bank in the northern city of Kunduz on Tuesday, with the interior ministry raising the death toll on Wednesday from five to eight.

The IS propaganda wing said on Wednesday a suicide bomber had “detonated his explosive vest” as “Taliban militia members gathered outside a public bank to collect their salaries”. AFP

SAVING THE TRUCE. A man walks past graffiti representing the reconstruction of Gaza, on a section of Israel’s separation barrier, in Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank on Wednesday. Mediators Qatar and Egypt were pushing to resolve a crisis in the Gaza ceasefire, a Palestinian source told AFP, after Israel and the United States told Hamas to release hostages this weekend or face a return to war. Palestinian sources close to negotiations on Thursday reported progress in efforts to salvage the IsraelHamas ceasefire, with a view to ensuring that a hostageprisoner exchange goes ahead this weekend as planned. AFP

Trump and Putin set to meet in Saudi Arabia on Ukraine

WASHINGTN, DC – US President Donald Trump revealed Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) he expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia for Ukraine peace talks, in an extraordinary thaw in relations after a surprise phone call between the two leaders.

In their first confirmed contact since Trump’s return to the White House, the US president said he had held a “lengthy and highly productive” conversation with the Russian counterpart who ordered the bloody 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

But the move sparked concerns that Ukraine will be left out of talks on its own fate, after Trump said Kyiv’s wish to join NATO was not “practical” -- a key demand of Moscow.

In Brussels, NATO chief Mark Rutte

said Ukraine must be involved in peace talks and any final deal needs to be “enduring,” after Trump agreed with Putin to launch negotiations.

“Of course, this is crucial -- (when) we talk about Ukraine, that Ukraine is closely involved in everything happening about Ukraine,” Rutte told journalists ahead of a meeting of alliance defense ministers.

Trump, who has been pushing for a quick end to the nearly three-year war, denied that Ukraine was being excluded

In NATO, the closer to Russia, the more spent on defense

PARIS – While NATO countries living near the Russian border pay well over two percent of their GDP on defense, those further away pay less.

Twenty-two of the US-led defense alliance’s 30 European members met the minimum target for military spending in 2024, but that differed from place to place.

On the eve of a meeting of NATO defense ministers, the alliance’s Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Wednesday that NATO members should pay “considerably more” for their defense.

US President Donald Trump has demanded an increase to five percent of national output.

Poland led the pack in 2024, with a marked increase in its defence spending since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago.

Its spending grew from 1.88 percent of GDP in 2014 to 2.23 percent in 2022, 3.26 percent in 2023 and 4.12 percent in 2024.

Apart from Poland, whose capital Warsaw lies some 1,150 kilometers from Moscow, four other countries with capitals less than 1,000 kilometers from the Kremlin are in the top five when it comes to defense spending.

Estonia (3.43 percent), Latvia (3.15 percent), Lithuania (2.85 percent) and Finland (2.41 percent) all share a border with Russia. AFP

from the direct negotiations between the two nuclear-armed superpowers.

“We expect that he’ll come here, and I’ll go there -- and we’re going to meet probably in Saudi Arabia the first time,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office about his plans to meet Putin.

Trump said he expected it to happen “in the not too distant future” and added that Saudi Crown Prince Prince Mohammed bin Salman -- who played a key role in a Russia-US prisoner exchange this week -would also be involved.

The Kremlin said the call lasted nearly one-and-a-half hours. The two leaders had agreed that the “time has come to work together” and that Putin has invited Trump to Moscow, it said.

Before taking office on Jan. 20, Trump had promised to end the Ukraine war “within 24 hours.”

Trump took the world by surprise as he announced the phone call on his Truth Social platform earlier, saying he and Putin had “both agreed, we want to stop the millions of deaths taking place in the War with Russia/Ukraine,” using an unconfirmed figure for the toll in the conflict. The US president said they had agreed to “work together very closely, including visiting each other’s Nations” and to “have our respective teams start negotiations immediately” on Ukraine.

Trump later called Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was not included on the call with Putin. Zelenskyy said afterwards that he had a “meaningful” call with Trump in which he had “shared details” of his talks with Putin. Trump said after the conversation that Zelenskyy “like President Putin, wants to make PEACE.” AFP

to be arrested. The ousted president arrived at the court around 09:00 am local time (0000 GMT), an AFP journalist saw. Thursday’s hearing is set to hear evidence from the former chief of South Korea’s intelligence service and one of the heads of

Seoul’s

The

Bullpups notch 8th straight win

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY Nazareth

School had to dig deep to secure its eighth straight win in the UAAP Season 87 High School Boys’ Basketball Tournament, narrowly escaping Far Eastern University-Diliman, 59-57, on Thursday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

The Bullpups improved to 8-0, maintaining their hold on the top spot, while the Baby Tamaraws suffered their second consecutive loss, dropping to 5-3 and falling to third place.

With reigning MVP Collins Akowe anchoring the defense, NU went on an 8-0 run that bridged the third and fourth quarters, transforming a slim 41-37 lead into a more comfortable 4937 cushion. However, the Baby Tamaraws refused to back down, trimming the deficit to just two, 59-57, with 27 seconds left after a basket from Sam Hall.

FEU had one final opportunity to either tie or win the game after forcing a defensive stop. Cabs Cabonilas, the leading local player in the statistical points race after the first round, had the ball in his hands but hesitated too long before attempting a floater that missed as time expired.

It was NUNS’ second close win as it fended off a late University of the East rally to pull off a 78-77 squeaker at the close of the first round.

“Hats off sa FEU, ang ganda ng gameplan nila. Heto ‘yung sinasabi ko sa mga bata na mahirap manalo sa second round. Na-test ‘yung maturity namin. Thankful pa rin na binigay sa amin ‘yung panalo, but we are not yet satisfied. Still, we’ll take this win,” said Bullpups head coach Kevin de Castro.

“For sure, we can’t be like this sa next games namin,” he added, acknowledging that NU must step up against defending champion Adamson Baby Falcons on Sunday. Akowe continued his dominance with his eighth double-double of the season, finishing with 21 points, 24 rebounds, and two blocks.

Earlier in the day, the league announced that only Filipino players are eligible to win the MVP award. Akowe, who leads the SP race after the first round, took the news in stride.

“My thoughts on this is, there’s a reason for everything. I’m meant to play basketball. The goal is not the MVP — the goal is to win the championship for Nazareth School. It is what it is,” said the 19-year-old Nigerian, who remains in contention for the league’s first-ever Best Foreign Student-Athlete award.

Del Monte golfers cruise to PAL Interclub victory

BACOLOD City —Yoyong Velez and Raul Minoza fired on all cylinders to lead Del Monte to a successful title defense in the Philippine Airlines Senior Interclub tournament at Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club in Bacolod City on Thursday.

Velez and Minoza each carded 53 points, helping Del Monte turn what was expected to be a fierce competition into a surprising and dominant victory.

“We thought we had the strongest team in the final round,” said Velez, the long-time team captain. “Our strategy paid off.”

It marked the first time Del Monte won the tournament outside its home course.

“Nobody can say now that we can’t win outside Del Monte,” Velez said, paying tribute to his teammates for their dedication. “We have been practicing every day for the last month.”

With Crispin Aparilla adding 47 points, Del Monte posted a tournament-best 153 points, securing a nine-point victory over Luisita and

Manila Southwoods.

Del Monte made its move early, taking a three-point lead over Luisita at the turn. Minoza was 1-under, while Velez was even par. Both players faced challenges in the last two holes.

Minoza made a double bogey on the 17th after his approach shot veered left into a flower bed. He was given a free drop but couldn’t save bogey.

On the other hand, Velez mishit his three-wood second shot after opting to lay up on the 18th.

“They forwarded the tee. I was torn between going over the pond or playing it safe. I had a poor tee shot and was in a bad position for my next shot,” Velez explained.

Despite taking a penalty drop, Velez managed to save double bo-

gey for one point.

In the end, they had nothing to worry about. No team came close to challenging Del Monte’s title-defense bid.

“Tanggal lahat ng gulong,” said Manila Southwoods’ Junjun Plana, who closed with 51 points.

Luisita took second place, edging Southwoods via countback. The Tarlac-based squad posted 143 points, with contributions from Ronnie Littaua (49), Steven McDonald (48), and Rolando Punzalan (46).

Southwoods rallied with 146 points to tie Luisita. Don Breganza matched Plana’s 51 points, while either Thirdy Escano or Rusty Bayani’s 44 counted.

Canlubang finished fourth with a total of 559, following a closing 140.

Damasus Wong shot 49, while Santiago Santos and Josefino Hernandez added 46 and 45, respectively.

The 76th staging of the PAL Interclub is supported by Platinum sponsors PRIMAX Broadcasting Network and Asian Journal. Mastercard is a gold sponsor while RMN is a silver sponsor.

Khelif responds to boxing lawsuit: I will fight

ALGIERS, Algeria—Algerian Olympic champion Imane Khelif has denounced “false and offensive” allegations after the International Boxing Association (IBA) said it will sue the International Olympic Committee over her inclusion at the Paris Games’ women’s boxing last year.

The IBA has “again made baseless accusations that are false and offensive, using them to further their agenda”, said Khelif in a statement posted on social media.

“This is a matter that concerns not just me but the broader principles of fairness and due process in sport,” she added.

The IBA has said it will launch a lawsuit against the IOC for including Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting -- who also won gold -- at last year’s Olympics.

The IBA, led by Umar Kremlev, a Kremlin-linked Russian oligarch, was excluded from the Olympic movement in 2019 over financial and ethical irregularities.

As a result the IOC organised the boxing in Paris.

Neither Khelif nor Lin Yu-ting are transgender women. Both were born and raised as women, which is how they are registered on their passports.

Yet the IBA barred them from its 2023 world championships after it said they failed gender eligibility tests for carrying XY chromosomes.

In its statement announcing the lawsuit, the IBA linked its action to US President Donald Trump’s executive order last week seeking to ban transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports.

The IOC told AFP the IBA’s lawsuit was part of a “campaign against the IOC which is ongoing since their recognition was withdrawn by the IOC for issues related to governance, judging and refereeing as well as questions around their finances”.

Khelif and Yu-Ting “were born as women, were raised as women, and have competed in the women’s category for their entire boxing careers”, it said. AFP

One PAW (Pabebe Azkal Wannabe) finally out?

THE Philippine Football Federation (PFF), specifically Freddy Gonzalez and his department, is currently finalizing the names that they will submit for the forthcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers that will start next month. Gonzalez says more than 50 names will be given to the organizing committee and from this list, the best players available will be called to don the three stars and the sun as the country opens its bid to reclaim a spot in the biggest tournament in the continent. Gonzalez said that the PFF can register as many as they want, meaning all players, who have represented the country before, will be part of the list aside from new faces, returning ones and local based players as well.

“You can expect new players such as Josef Baccay, Randy Schneider, Andrei Leipold and Cole Mrowka to be part of the list. Gerrit Holtmann, Sandro Reyes, Kevin Mendoza, Jeff Tabinas, Dylan Demuynck, Zico Bailey, Bjorn Kristensen and more will also be back,” Gonzalez said. Incidentally, Gonzalez has confirmed the other day that Baccay and Schneider’s passports are already in order. He is just waiting for Leipold’s and Mrowka’s passports to arrive, too, before the February 25 deadline of registration of players. I just wish that Sebastian Rasmussen can also find his way back to the national team. I haven’t heard much of him in the past few weeks. A chat, however, with Sebastian’s mother, Jackielyn, revealed that her son is back on the pitch and has scored two goals and two assists for Hobro IK’s U-23 team in a recent exhibition game. Jackielyn also revealed that his son is much willing to go back to Manila if he is called upon to play for

the national team. Someone, too, told The Designated Kit Man that a local club is very much willing to give him the opportunity to play in the domestic league. Hoping that we will hear something more from Sebastian soon, knowing what he could do for the national team.

Michael Baldisimo is another player, who is always on the list of call ups. He is without a club, as of now. One positive vibe, though, on Baldisimo is that he is training with Aidan Daniels and Kadin Chung in Vancouver, so we are keeping our fingers crossed that he will suit up with a club in Major League Soccer or J2 League in Japan soon.

Which brings us to another player, who is always eagerly anticipated to don the national kit every time a major tournament is about to unfold–Raphael Obermair. The last time we heard of the SC Paderbon 07 winger of the 2 Bundesliga, it was said that he was currently prioritizing the promotion of his club to the premier league. I think this was during the run-up to the AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup sometime in

November last year.

“Obermair hasn’t been replying to anyone, so will likely never be a part of the Philippine National Men’s Football Team. It’s disrespectful to everyone what he is doing,” a source revealed to The Designated Kit Man.

“He could at least reply and say something like he wants to focus on his club or any other reasons. At least we know and we can finally move on from him,” the irate source added. Which is fair for us all, including Obermair and those who are still praying and waiting for him to show up and play for the country.

The Philippines opens its campaign against Maldives at home on March 25.

In case the repairs and the installation of a new artificial pitch at Rizal Memorial Stadium will not be finished before the match, Gonzalez says Plan B is to hold the home game at New Clark City in Pampanga.

“We were thinking about Bacolod, but they have a lot of issues now with the infrastructure. We also talked with Gov Matthew Manotoc of Ilocos Norte, but they are using their pitch this month and the activity will impact the football field so we settled on New Clark,” Gonzalez explained.

Marcos gives FIVB men’s world meet a boost

MALACAÑANG stamped its imprimatur on the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025 through Administrative Order (AO) 30 that directed relevant government agencies and instrumentalities to support the prestigious event set September 12 to 28. The AO, released on Tuesday and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., ordered for the creation of a Task Force that would guarantee the success of the 32-nation world championship that the country is hosting through the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).

“Thank you very much President Bongbong Marcos,” said PNVF president Ramon “Tats Suzara, who also expressed gratitude to First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, an avid supporter of Philippine volleyball, and William Vincent “Vinny” Marcos, co-chair of the Local Organizing Committee of the MWCH.

According to the AO, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has been designated as Task Force secretariat and will have 17 members from the Departments of Tourism, Budget and Management, Education, Trade and Industry, Finance, Foreign Affairs, Health, Information and Communication Technology, Interior and Local Government, Public Works and Highways and Transportation, as well as the Commission on Higher Education, Metro Manila Development Authority, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Bureaus of Immigration and Customs and the Presidential Communications Office.

The AO was specific on one of the Task Force’s major functions on coordinating and collaborating with other departments, bureaus, offices, agencies and instrumentalities of the government, including GOCCs, including the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and Philippine Postal Corporation.

The funding requirement for the implementation of the order, the AO furthered, “shall be charged against the existing appropriations of the respective agencies, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations.”

In case the Filipinas, the Philippine National Women’s Football Team, is looking for additional players to boost their GK lineup, Isabelle Mapanao is highly recommended. Mapanao, currently plays for the Louisiana State University-Shreveport which has competed in the NAIA Division 1 and won the 2024 Conference Championship. The 21-year-old student-athlete is a former goalkeeper for the Philippine National Women’s Football U16 Team. She has also played with FC Marbella in Spain and US Terre Sainte in Switzerland where she helped her teams win the championships in their divisions. Due to her impressive performance, Isabelle has received nearly 20 offers from US schools and universities. She was also offered to play for FC Sion in the Swiss Super League, but decided to pursue her BS in Occupational Physiology degree and at the same time, further improve her skills while preparing for her fondest wish, which is to play for the Filipinas. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_ cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

MVP Collins Akowe
Gold medallist Algeria’s Imane Khelif during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Roland-Garros Stadium
Members of Del Monte Team celebrate after winning the PAL Seniors’ Interclub title.
Photo by Jeremiah Alagaban
The Designated Kit Man
Erel Cabatbat

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

PH

men’s curling team stuns, reaches medal round

HARBIN, CHINA—World’s No.

51 Philippine men’s curling team reached the medal round here at the ninth Asian Winter Games.

Skipper Filipino-Swiss Marc Pfister, brother Enrico Pfister, lead Alan Frei and vice skipper Christian Haller broke a four-all tie and claimed the last six points to guide the Filipinos to an important 10-4 win over No. 10 Japan on Thursday in the qualification round at the Pingfang Curling Arena.

The Filipinos, cheered by Curling Pilipinas President Benjo Delarmente, who also served as an alternate, advanced to the evening semifinal stage and were battling No. 17 China as of press time, hoping to move to the gold medal round.

The Philippines made it to the qualification round after tallying in three wins against only a loss – which was the 1-6 setback to South Korea in the round robin Group A last Sunday.

In the other qualification phase, No. 36 Hong Kong blasted No. 35 Kazakhstan, 8-5, to meet No. 7 South Korea in the semifinal stage that was also being held as of press time. The battle for bronze and the final round is set on Friday at 9am.

This is the second time that the Filipinos will attempt for a first ever medal in the Asian Winter Games after the Philippines’ curling team mixed doubles team of Marc Pfister and Kathleen Dubberstein came up short for a bronze last Saturday when they narrowly lost to China, 5-6.

PH handball squads bag gold, bronze in Thailand

THE Philippine men’s beach handball team clinched the gold medal, while the women’s squad brought home the bronze at the 2025 Southeast Asian Beach Handball Championships in Suphanburi, Thailand

The men’s team delivered a stunning performance, defeating powerhouse Vietnam, 2-1, in a thrilling match to secure its third consecutive

UAAP to name Best Foreign Student-Athlete in Season 87

THE University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has implemented a change starting Season 87, introducing the Best Foreign Stu dent-Athlete award across all UAAP sports where statistical points determine individual performance rankings.

This decision, which was approved last season, ensures that foreign student-athletes who dominate the statistical leaderboards receive proper recognition while maintaining the prestige of the Most Valuable Player award for the highestranked local student-athlete.

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene “Rebo” Saguisag explained how the new award will work within the league’s framework during the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Volleyball press conference, Thursday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

“This was approved last year for implementation this season. The Best Foreign Student-Athlete award will be given across all UAAP sports but only if a foreign student-athlete finishes as the leader in events where statistical points are available. In that case, they will receive the Best Foreign StudentAthlete award, while the highestranking local student-athlete in the statistical race will be recognized as the Most Valuable Player,” explained Atty. Saguisag.

This means that if an FSA tops the statistical race in sports such as basketball or volleyball —where numerical performance metrics are recorded—they will be honored with the new title.

victory and dominate the five-nation competition, which followed a championship-round format. Before their win over Vietnam, the

Filipinos bested Singapore, 2-0, and host Thailand, 2-1. They are set to face Indonesia in a no-bearing game later today.

This marks a historic achievement for the Philippines, as it is the firstever gold medal won in the Southeast Asian men’s beach handball tournament, surpassing their previous bronze finishes in 2017 and 2023. On the other hand, the Philippine women’s beach handball team earned the bronze medal after a 2-0 victory against Singapore. Despite losses to Thailand (0-2) and Vietnam (0-2),

their podium finish adds another milestone for Philippine handball. The gold-bronze finish bolsters the confidence of the Filipino handballers as they prepare for the Asian Beach Handball Championships, scheduled from May 1 to 10 in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. This event also serves as a qualifier for the World Championships. However, beach handball is currently not included in the official sports program of the 2025 SEA Games, with only indoor handball events being featured.

NU spikers still team to beat in UAAP Season 87

SPIKERS from National University are still the team to beat in the coming 87th University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s and women’s volleyball tournament, which gets going on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bulldogs boast of experienced veterans, making them a difficult squad to deal with in the men’s division, while NU’s strong frontline in the women’s side will see them as a fearsome unit.

“May mga nawala kaming mga veterans. Pero napaghandaan na namin ito,” said coach Dante Alinsunurin of the Bulldogs, who are looking forward to their fifth consecutive title.

The Bulldogs open their bid against the La Salle Green Spikers at 11 a.m. Alinsunurin said they may have lost three veterans, who have graduated like Mico Almendras, John Retamar and Jann Sumagui.

But two rookies and three thirdyear players are expected to step up

in their absence.

One of the Bulldogs expected to assume the leadership mantle is Greg Ancheta, who is now a senior player in the squad, alongside rookie Leo Ordiales, a high-leaping opposite spiker.

Meanwhile, with new coach Sherwin Meneses set to make his debut, the Lady Bulldogs start their campaign for a third crown in four seasons when they clash with the De La Salle University Lady Spikers at 3 p.m.

The Lady Bulldogs will count on last

Games Saturday (Mall of Asia Arena) 9 a.m. – UE vs UP (Men) 11 a.m. – FEU vs UST (Men) 1 p.m. – UE vs UP (Women) 3 p.m. – FEU vs UST (Women)

year’s MVP Mhicaela Belen to provide leadership with the presence of opposite hitter Kaye Bombita, setter Abegail Pono, Shaira Jardio, Evangeline Alin-

Kim seizes lead as del Rosario stumbles at finish

STA. ROSA, Laguna—Thrust into the solo spotlight, Pauline del Rosario embraced the challenge with steely resolve but faltered at the finish, dropping two shots over the last three holes to settle for a 71.

The costly slip saw her slide to a share of sixth place, three strokes behind new leader Kim Ahyeon after 36 holes of the ICTSI Worldwide Link Philippine Ladies Masters 2025 here on Thursday.

As the Philippine contingent struggled on moving day, Del Rosario seized the opportunity with a fearless performance, proving her mettle in a field teeming with international talent. Her aggressive play, particularly in the first 12 holes, which she played in three-under, showcased the tenacity and experience that could propel her to a breakthrough win in this $200,000 event, the Korean Dream Tour’s inaugural foray into the Philippines. However, TCC’s notoriously demanding closing stretch proved unforgiving. A wayward drive on the par-4 16th resulted in a bogey, and

a costly three-putt on the final hole further dampened her charge.

“I felt pretty bad bogeying the last hole,” said del Rosario, frustrated by her struggles on the unpredictable greens. “I guess it was my putting and feel for the speed of the greens.”

Despite the late stumble, del Rosario remains a strong contender at 140. Her earlier surge, highlighted by birdies on Nos. 10 and 12, demonstrated the caliber of play needed to contend against an elite international field.

While del Rosario briefly threatened for a share of the lead, Kim Ahyeon surged ahead with a blistering front-nine 31. The Korean standout capitalized on her hot start, firing birdies on Nos. 1, 2, 4, 8, and 9. She held firm on the challenging back nine, protecting her lead with a composed string of pars to finish at seven-under overall (137).

Thai Parinda Phokan birdied the par-4 17th to cap a 70, securing solo second at 138. Meanwhile, Kim Yeosoon (68), Wang Li-Ning (69), and Han Nakyoung (70) all posted

Volleyball coaches from both men’s and women’s divisions are presented during Thursday’s UAAP Season 87 volleyball press conference.

sug and Alyssa Solomon.

Other matches will have last season’s runner-up, the University of Santo Tomas meeting Far Eastern University at 3 p.m. in the women’s division, and the UST men’s team renewing its rivalry with FEU earlier in the day at 11 a.m. Host school University of the Philippines will fa c e the University of the East in the women’s division at 1 p.m., while the UP-UE men’s showdown is set earlier at 9 a.m.

treacherous layout capable of shifting momentum in an instant.

Members of the Philippine men’s handball team display their gold medals. PR National Sports University, Suphan Buri Campus
Kim Ahyeon surges ahead with a blistering front-nine 31. Manny Marcelo
The Philippines’ Marc P ster AFP

BSP halts easing cycle, keeps policy rate at 5.75%

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Thursday kept its key policy rate unchanged at 5.75 percent as inflation remains within its target range.

The Monetary Board said it maintained the target reverse repurchase or overnight borrowing rate at 5.75 percent.

The interest rates on the overnight deposit and lending facilities also remain at 5.25 percent and 6.25 percent, respectively.

“The latest inflation forecasts are not materially different from the previous forecasts in December.

For 2025, the risk-adjusted inflation forecast rose to 3.5 percent from 3.4 percent in the previous meeting,” the BSP said.

It said the risk-adjusted forecast

for 2026 is unchanged at 3.7 percent.

“Inflation expectations remain within the target range,” the BSP said.

The BSP said the risks to the inflation outlook have become broadly balanced for 2025 and 2026.

Upside pressures are seen to come from the utilities sector. The impact of lower import tariffs on rice remains the main downside risk to inflation, the BSP said.

The Monetary Board noted that domestic growth prospects continue to be firm. However, uncertainty over global economic policies and their

impact on the domestic economy has increased significantly, it said.

“On balance, uncertainty about the outlook for inflation and growth warrant keeping monetary policy settings steady,” the BSP said.

“Before deciding on the timing and magnitude of further reductions in the policy interest rate, the Monetary Board deems it prudent to await further assessments of the impact of global policy uncertainty and the potential effects of the actual policies,” it said.

The BSP said the going forward, it anticipated continuing its measured shift to less restrictive monetary policy settings, even as previous policy adjustments further work their way through the economy.

“The BSP will remain datadependent in ensuring price stability conducive to sustainable economic growth and employment,” it said.

lifts

foreign

THE share price of fast-food giant

Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) surged 10.72 percent Thursday after the company scrapped its foreign ownership cap.

JFC’s stock closed P262.40 Thursday, adding P25.40 from the previous day’s P237.00

JFC said it is easing its foreign ownership limit, a move that will enable it to attract more foreign investors.

JFC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its board approved the removal of the 40-percent foreign ownership limit.

The company sought to amend its incorporation papers, particularly the removal of the corporation’s ability to own, acquire, mortgage, pledge or encumber land.

The Philippine Constitution allows up to 40-percent foreign ownership of private land.

Analysts said the easing of its foreign ownership limit would enable JFC to attract more foreign investors.

JFC said in May 2024 it obtained shareholders’ approval to remove from its primary purpose the ability of the corporation to directly own real properties.

It, however, retained the company’s ability to invest in companies that own real properties including land within the limits allowed by applicable laws.

THE Philippines signed a double taxation agreement (DTA) with Cambodia to strengthen economic ties by boosting business confidence, increasing trade and spurring growth.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto and Cambodia Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn signed the DTA on Feb. 11, 2025.

The signing was witnessed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

“[W]e welcome our formal cooperation on the avoidance of double taxation and the exchange of best practices in competition law that the Philippines and Cambodia both consider as critical to entice and facilitate greater bilateral investments and economic activities between our business sectors,” Marcos said during the ceremonial event.

Recto said the signing of this DTA is a crucial step towards improving the integrity of the country’s tax system.

“By eliminating tax barriers and ensuring a fair and transparent framework, we are not only attracting greater foreign investments into the Philippines but also reinforcing our trade ties within the region. This will position us as a strong and reliable economic partner,” Recto said.

The DTA is designed to eliminate double taxation on income earned in the Philippines and Cambodia, prevent tax evasion and enhance economic cooperation, in line with commitments under the ASEAN Forum

29 PH firms make it to Time’s

on Taxation.

It is expected to reduce fiscal barriers and stimulate bilateral trade and investment, contributing to stronger economic ties between the two nations.

It covers various aspects of taxation, including income from business profits, dividends, interests, royalties, capital gains, and other sources of revenue, ensuring a fair and efficient tax framework for businesses and individuals operating in both jurisdictions. Darwin G. Amojelar

Lopez-led industrial park recognized for safe water plan

THE

(FPIP)

FPIP, through

systems of

FPIP Utilities Inc. (FUI) and FIT Water Inc. (FITWI), were awarded certificates of Water Safety Plan (WSP) Acceptance by PEZA on Feb. 11, 2025.

FPIP belonged to a small group of ecozone developers that earned the WSP acceptance certificates from PEZA.

FPIP’s FUI unit provides 24/7, quality and sustainable water services in FPIP’s main ecozone area, straddling the cities of Santo Tomas and Tanauan in

Batangas.

FITWI provides a similar service in FPIP’s adjacent expansion site known as First Industrial Township (FIT) in Tanauan.

The first PEZA WSP Review Committee, led by the PEZA Environmental Safety Group, was composed of external members from the Department of Health (DOH), University of the Philippines - Manila and Maynilad Water Services Inc.

The committee carefully evaluated each submitted WSP, based on team and management support, system description, hazard identification and risk assessment, control measures validation, improvement plans, operational monitoring and verification, among others.

WSPs with passing overall ratings were recommended by PEZA to the DOH for approval and issuance of certificates.

PHILIPPINE stocks climbed Thursday, sending the benchmark index above the 6,100 level.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) advanced 69.06 points, or 1.14 percent, to close at 6,113.19, while the broader all-shares index rose 28.54 points, or 0.79 percent, to settle at 3,647.73

The Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), however, decided to keep its policy rate unchanged at 5.75 percent.

Analysts said the BSP decision might cause the PSEi to move sideways longer.

“Uncertainties may have forced BSP to stay defensive with growth possibly missing target again in 2025,” Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company chief economist Nicholas Mapa said.

Value turnover reached P5.76 billion, higher than year-to-date average of P5.26 billion.

Foreign investors were net sellers, with net outflows reaching P369.44 million.

All indices closed in the green, with mining and oil sector rising the most at 2.7 percent, followed by industrial which added 1.81 percent.

Fastfood giant Jollibee Foods Corp. led the index, rising 10.72 percent to P262.40, while Bloomberry Resorts Corp. was the main index laggard, declining by 2.7 percent to P3.60 each.

Asian markets mostly rose Thursday, and oil prices extended losses as forecast-topping US inflation was overshadowed by hopes for an end to the Ukraine war after news Donald Trump and Russia’s Vladimir Putin had discussed peace talks.

The US president said he expected to meet his Russian counterpart in Saudi Arabia “in the not too distant future” to find a route to ending the threeyear conflict, which has fanned geopolitical fears and energy costs.

Trump said the two had held a “lengthy and highly productive” telephone conversation and added that he expected they would visit each other’s countries.

The Kremlin said the call lasted nearly one-anda-half hours and the leaders had agreed that the “time has come to work together.” With AFP

BGT CRANE. Basra Gateway Container Terminal (BGT), International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s (ICTSI) operation at the Port of Umm Qasr, Iraq, commissions a new Konecranes Gottwald ESP.8 mobile harbor crane. With a 125-ton lifting capacity and a 54-meter boom, the crane can serve vessels up to post-Panamax class, further strengthening BGT’s operational capability. The latest acquisition is part of BGT’s continuing commitment to modernizing Iraq’s busiest port and ensuring reliable, sustainable service to customers.

STI Education Services Group, the education arm of STI Holdings Inc., broke ground on a P950-million new campus in Metro Manila.

STI Holdings said STI Academic Center Alabang located in South Park District would rise on a 3,266-squaremeter property that can accommodate up to 10,000 senior high school and college students.

The eight-story building will be a state-of-the-art campus designed featuring top-of-the line facilities and equipment.

METRO Retail Stores Group Inc. (MRSGI) is expanding in the Visayas through new developments in the rapidly growing Leyte, Samar and Negros Occidental provinces.

MRSGI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Thursday it is planning to construct new stores in Catbalogan, Samar and Hinigaran, Negros Occidental.

“We are excited to bring modern retail services to communities that have long been underserved,” said MRSGI president and chief executive Manuel Alberto.

“For years, we have been expanding and improving our facilities to keep up with the demands and challenges of the modern world. This new campus in Alabang reflects our commitment to creating a conducive learning environment that empowers students with relevant skills, knowledge, and character,” said STI president and chief operating officer Peter Fernandez.

The new STI Academic Center Alabang will be equipped with modern facilities, including air-conditioned classrooms with flat-screen TVs, student activity centers with internet connectivity, industry-grade laboratories and recreational spaces such as a basketball court.

“As the economies of regions like Negros Occidental and Eastern Samar continue to grow—bolstered by impressive GDP expansions and strong performance in key sectors like retail, construction and tourism—MRSGI is capitalizing on these opportunities. Through our strategic partnerships with local and provincial governments, we are not just expanding our retail footprint; we are creating hubs of opportunity that provide jobs, services, and economic growth to the region,” he said.

MRSGI is initially developing a two-story retail building in Catbalogan, Samar, with a supermarket and department store. The second phase will include a two to three story mall.

The project also includes a convention center, a government center and a transport terminal, all of which have been handed over to the local government. A hotel is planned as part of the development to attract tourists. Jenniffer B. Austria

The new campus, which is slated to open in 2026, will offer senior high school programs and bachelor’s degree programs in high-demand fields such as Information Technology, Business & Management, Hospitality Management and Tourism Management.

STI is the largest network of private schools in the Philippines. It currently operates 63 campuses nationwide with total capacity of 146,585 students.

Aside from offering state-of the art facilities, STI has also transitioned to an outcome-based education (OBE) curriculum, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and qualities needed to succeed in a globalized world. Jenniffer B. Austria

YELLOW BLACK
First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) officials and employees from its water division units point their index fingers up after they earned recognition from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for their commitment to maintaining water safety within the ecozone.

BUSINESS

PH, Cambodia eye stronger cooperation on rice trade

THE Philippines and Cambodia are exploring opportunities for increased cooperation on rice trade and other agricultural initiatives, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on agricultural and agribusiness cooperation.

Malacañang.

An important focus of the partnership is enhancing rice trade between the two nations.

Dith Tina, in the presence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Hun Manet at

DTI leads destruction of 47 LPG tanks over safety concerns

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it led the destruction of 47 confiscated liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks on Feb. 7, 2025 in Mabalacat, Pampanga, in line with its commitment to ensuring product safety and consumer protection.

The DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) seized the reportedly substandard cylinders, worth P45,000 during a routine inspection in La Union province.

It said to ensure proper disposal and compliance with environmental standards, it carried out the destruction activity at a plant site in Dau, Mabalacat.

Following strict safety protocols, DTI FTEB personnel devalved and decanted the cylinders until they were rendered unusable.

The confiscated LPG tanks were deemed non-conforming to Philippine standards and posed potential risks to consumers due to their failure to meet established regulations, the DTI said.

Enforcement authorities highlighted the importance of adhering to safety standards to prevent consumer harm.

DTI regional director Merlie Membrere emphasized the significance of the operation, reiterating the DTI’s commitment to ensuring compliance with product standards.

“The DTI is dedicated to protecting consumers from substandard and potentially dangerous products. We will continue to strengthen our monitoring and enforcement efforts to promote fair competition and safeguard consumer welfare,” she said.

The DTI Region 1 regularly inspects establishments selling regulated products, including LPG, as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards, protect consumers from unsafe products, and promote fair competition in the marketplace.

The DTI also encourages consumers to report any suspected violations of trade and industry laws to the nearest DTI office to help promote safer products and fair business practices.

STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) earned an overall score of 92.34 percent in the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) 2023 Performance Scorecard.

GCG chairperson Marius Corpus said

BCDA not only met its 2023 performance scorecard targets but also maintained scores above 90 percent during GCG’s annual performance

“I would like to acknowledge the men and women of BCDA for their diligence and excellence in achieving targets that contribute to our nation’s development. This accomplishment underscores our commitment to being responsible stewards of state assets and a cornerstone of national growth,” said BCDA chairman Hilario Paredes.

Tina invited the Philippines to invest in Cambodia’s expanding rice production sector, particularly in es-

tablishing rice milling facilities.

Tiu Laurel said the Philippine government is open to the proposal, highlighting the role of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Food Terminal Inc. in facilitating such investments.

“Cambodia is poised to become a key agricultural trading partner as it diversifies its markets, particularly for rice,” Tiu Laurel said.

Bilateral trade between the Philippines and Cambodia totaled $80.5 million in 2023, with agricultural products accounting for $20.4 million. Despite this, the Philippines currently faces a trade deficit with Cambodia, according to data from the

Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The MOU also outlines further collaboration in agricultural planning, animal feed development, animal health protection, irrigation management, and agricultural marketing systems.

Both nations are also exploring the exchange of non-geographical indication-protected plant commodities to promote agricultural innovation and diversity.

The enhanced partnership is expected to promote sustainable agricultural growth, boost food security, and drive trade between the two nations.

Over 92m registered to National ID system

THE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said it marked a significant milestone as it registered more than 92 million Filipinos to the National ID system.

A total of 92,016,069 Filipinos have successfully registered to the National ID system as of Feb. 5, 2025, the PSA said.

“This remarkable accomplishment is a result of the dedication of the strong men and women of the PSA to make the National ID inclusive and accessible to every Filipino,” said PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis Mapa.

“This achievement will be an impetus for the PSA to drive the use cases of the National ID, especially with the authentication services,” said Mapa who is also the National Statistician and Civil Registrar General.

He said that through the registration efforts of the PSA, more Filipinos are reaping the benefits of being part of the National ID system such as having a valid proof of identity that can be presented in transactions, allowing access to services.

Heminigilda Acheta, a 98-yearold resident from Barangay Sto. Tomas, Saguday, Quirino shared how the National ID has helped her process her delayed birth registration, which she had been struggling with for years.

“I am 98 years old. With the help of my National ID, I have the opportunity to register my birth. This is what I will use as the main requirement in processing my delayed registration,” Acheta said.

Ateneo scientists make aluminum transparent using tiny acid droplets

FILIPINO scientists from the Ateneo de Manila University have made aluminum transparent by using tiny acid droplets.

Transparent aluminum oxide (TAlOx), a real material despite its sci-fi name, is incredibly hard and resistant to scratches, making it perfect for protective coatings on electronics, optical sensors and solar panels.

On the sci-fi show Star Trek, it is

even used for starship windows and spacefaring aquariums.

Current methods of making TAlOx are expensive and complicated, requiring high-powered lasers, vacuum chambers, or large vats of dangerous acids.

The Ateneo researchers made transparent aluminum oxide (TAlOx) by applying microdroplets of acidic solution onto ordinary aluminum and applying a controlled electric current. Instead of immersing entire sheets of metal into acidic solutions, the researchers applied microdroplets of acidic solution onto small aluminum surfaces and applied an electric current. Just two volts of electricity—barely more than what’s found in a single AA household flashlight battery—was all that was needed to transform the metal into glass-like TAlOx.

BCDA’s high ratings were attributed to its continued progress on key projects, including the on-schedule construction of the Airport to New Clark City Access Roads Phases 2 and 3, P4 billion remittance to the national government, and the signing of development contracts for mixed-use areas benefiting local communities.

BCDA’s achievements also included the timely award of consulting services for the Detailed Architectural and Engineering Design for New Clark City Projects, a 98 percent overall client satisfaction rating and recertification under ISO9001:2015 for the provision of conversion, development, real estate management and engineering services.

“We are committed to maintaining this level of excellence in service for our stakeholders, which includes the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the surrounding communities of our high-impact projects. We appreciate the GCG for recognizing BCDA’s dedication to good governance, excellence, and sustainable development,” said BCDA president Joshua Bingcang. The BCDA’s performance scorecard outlines its committed targets in improving military facilities, developing livable communities, remitting funds to the AFP and national government, delivering quality infrastructure projects, promoting synchronized development of special economic zones and fostering stakeholder partnerships. Othel V. Campos

This process, called “droplet-scale anodization,” is not only simpler than existing manufacturing methods but also environmentally friendly, cutting down on chemical waste and energy use.

The technique relies on a special effect called “electrowetting,” where an electric field changes the properties of a liquid droplet, allowing precise control over the anodization process.

The MOU was signed on Feb. 11, 2025 by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Cambodia’s Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
CHILDREN CELEBRATION. Carliza Galut registers her daughter during the Rehistro Bulilit activity in Barangay Socorro, Quezon City. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) marked a significant milestone as it registerED over 92 million Filipinos to the National ID system as of Feb. 5, 2025.
KFC STORE. KFC Philippines opens its sixth store in Angeles City, Pampanga. The new branch located on Friendship Highway, Villa Manuela Compound, Barangay Pampang is equipped with digital menu boards and self-operating kiosks for customer convenience. Leading the store’s opening rites are (from left) KFC Philippines chief marketing officer Charmaine Pamintuan, operations director Linda Jalandoni, senior BDD manager Maribelle Cruz and North Luzon Upper operations manager Sherwin Santos.

PAL to launch direct flights between Cebu and Saigon

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) announced that it will launch nonstop flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), offering the first direct air service linking Central Visayas and Vietnam’s main economic and commercial hub.

The new PAL Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City-Cebu route will start May 2, 2025, with an initial schedule of three flights per week.

The route will cater to the growing interest of Filipinos in visiting Vietnam, which recorded about 216,000

Biggest theme park in Cebu goes green with First Gen

ANJO World Theme Park, owned and operated by Cebu-based Belmont Group, signed an agreement with renewable energy (RE) provider First Gen Corp. for clean power supply as part of the diversified company’s long-term sustainability program. Belmont One and First Gen officials signed on Feb. 13, 2025 an agreement to provide 750 kilowatts of electricity from a geothermal source for the property firm’s mixed-use Belmont One project in Minglanilla town.

The 3.5-hectare Belmont One commercial complex houses the company-owned Anjo World Theme Park, the first and largest integrated family entertainment complex in the whole of the Visayas and Mindanao. The commercial complex’s tenants also include retail stores and dining spaces, as well as facilities for conferences and other big events.

“We are committed to continuous innovation and the adoption of more efficient, forward-thinking solutions in our operations. Since January 2016, we have been actively pursuing renewable energy initiatives and exploring ways to increase our reliance on stable, sustainable power sources. By transitioning to renewable energy, we are not only optimizing our energy costs but also making significant strides toward achieving our sustainability goals and minimizing our environmental impact,” said Chester Lim, president of Anjo World and Belmont One.

Filipino travelers for 2024, ranking as the 9th most visited destination among Filipinos. The Philippine flag carrier is also increasing its Manila-Hanoi-Manila flights to a daily service, up from the current five times weekly, starting April

1, 2025, which will provide more convenient access between Manila and Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, known for its rich history and cultural treasures.

“We are pleased to expand Philippine Airlines’ footprint in Vietnam, our next-door neighbor and fellow ASEAN member country, through our new service linking Ho Chi Minh City to Cebu for the very first time,” said PAL president and chief operating officer Captain Stanley Ng.

“We look forward to boosting tourism, strengthening Cebu’s position as the nation’s emerging business and

leisure gateway, and building on the strong and friendly relations between Vietnam and the Philippines. We are excited to invite Vietnamese tourists and business people to take the short hop to Cebu to discover the wonders of our islands and enjoy the warm hospitality of our people,” said Ng. The Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City flights depart from Mactan-Cebu International Airport every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The return PAL service departs from Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport every Monday, Thursday and Saturday.

MAYA, a leading digital bank in the Philippines, said it is bridging the credit and education gap for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) through its Negosyo Serye program, which merges financial literacy with seamless loan access.

The program targets eligible MSME owners who operate Maya Center businesses, offering them skills in financial management, growth opportunities and streamlined access to Maya’s lending products.

Maya Centers offer a broad range of essential financial services, including remittances, bill payments, cashin, cash-out, and reloading—creating

a convenient one-stop solution for everyday financial needs.

“Financial literacy programs often leave entrepreneurs without a way to put their learning into practice,” said Renan Santiago, Maya head for MSME business and retail.

“We empower MSMEs with essential financial skills and seamless access to credit—equipping them with both the knowledge and the tools to take immediate action for growth,” said Santiago.

Entrepreneurs like Mylene Laguio from Quezon City have already experienced the benefits. As a Negosyo agent, Laguio secured a P150,000 loan through Maya Advance.

HOUSE Ways and Means Committee

chair and Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda asked the Senate to approve the proposed Universal Social Pension for Senior Citizens Act (House Bill 10423) which he said is fiscally sustainable and pledged to source out funds for it. The bill seeks to grant P1,000 to all Filipino senior citizens. “Now, I myself am telling the Senate that we can fund the Universal Social Pension,” Salceda said. Salceda, who also heads the House’s Joint Committee on Senior Citizens (SC) and Persons with Disability (PWD) Benefits, said he had a talk with Senator Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development to push for

ensure least cost pricing are critical obligations of DUs to their captive customers. The ERC will continue to enforce its regulatory authority to ensure these obligations are upheld,” it said.

IN BRIEF

Interest rate cuts seen more challenging BANK of

SPENDING TRENDS. Data analysis by Visa Consulting and Analytics highlights consumer spend trends in the Philippines during Valentine’s Day festivities. It found that more active cards are used for transactions, indicating a change in how Filipinos are celebrating Valentine’s Day.

“With Maya’s Negosyo Serye, I got financial training, instant credit, and franchising opportunities—all in one place. It’s a faster, more complete solution that is helping me grow my business quickly and efficiently,” she said.

MSMEs in the Philippines often struggle with financial literacy and credit access, limiting their growth potential.

Maya’s NegosyoSerye addresses these obstacles by teaching budgeting, saving and investing, alongside responsible loan use. Participants also explore business expansion opportunities, such as franchising, within the session.

the 3rd quarter. Cutting interest rates while the Fed is on hold could put downward pressure on the peso,” he said. Jenniffer B. Austria Petron, UPLB team up for carbon assessment PETRON, through Petron Foundation Inc. (PFI), is strengthening its commitment to managing its environmental impact through a partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños-College of Forestry and Natural Resources (UPLB-CFNR) and the UPLB Foundation Inc. Petron tapped UPLB to conduct a sciencebased assessment of sequestered carbon

the bill’s passage. “I talked with Senator Imee Marcos, who chairs the Senate committee discussing the bill, during her visit to Albay. I assured her we can sustain universal social pension fiscally. The Senate committee can still pass it during the break. I’ll take care of finding the funds). She assured me she will study it carefully,” he said. Salceda cited government estimates showing the incremental costs of the program would be P28.8 billion

Celebrating Galentine’s Day

How the fictional celebration turned into a global phenomenon

FEBRUARY marks the love month. The season when sales of roses and chocolates and bookings of hotels and restaurants rocket the market. It has always been predominantly about romantic love being in the air as couples prepare for Valentine’s Day. But beyond romantic love, friendship is another kind worth celebrating (especially for singles!) at this time.

I was reminded of this celebration recently when I saw ABS-CBN actresses and real-life best friends

Angelica Panganiban, Bela Padilla, and Kim Chiu, also known collectively as AngBeKi, sharing snaps from their Galentine’s dinner. It was a heartwarming sight—three women who have been through life’s ups and downs together, making time to celebrate their friendship and “sisterhood by choice.”

Random Talk Kate Adjar

Why it matters

Galentine’s Day is a celebration of female friendships, self-care, and empowerment. It’s a reminder that love isn’t just about romance—it’s also about the people who support

Seeing this, plus the flood of Galentine reels and photos popping up on my social media feeds, made me curious about how this unofficial holiday started. I learned from a 2020 Inside Edition report that the term “Galentine’s Day” was coined by Amy Poehler’s character, Leslie Knope, in a 2010 episode of American sitcom Parks and Recreation

In the episode titled Galentine’s Day, Leslie gathered her closest gal friends for brunch, gifted them personalized presents, and showered them with words of affirmation and appreciation. From there, what started out as a fictional celebration quickly resonated with women all over the world.

‘Galentine’s Day’ was popularized by Amy Poehler’s character, Leslie Knope, in a 2010 episode of the American sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’

and inspire us every day.

With life’s fast pace, Galentine’s Day offers the perfect reason to pause, reconnect, and appreciate the women who bring joy into our lives.

It’s also about self-love.

Galentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in a little self-care and appreciation. As cheesy as it sounds, we all need a reminder that the most important relationship we’ll ever have

is the one with ourselves.

How to celebrate Galentine’s Day

However you choose to celebrate (if you choose to!), the key is to connect with your gals. Here are some fun and meaningful ways to enjoy Galentine’s Day:

1. Crafting/Vision boarding party

Gather your girlfriends for a vision board session to map out your goals and dreams for the year. Grab some old magazines (or print out photos), scissors, and glue, or go digital with apps like Canva or Pinterest. Sharing dreams and manifesting each other’s visions is worth celebrating!

2. Sparty/Spa party

A little self-care goes a long way!

Whether it’s a DIY spa night with face masks and scented candles or a luxurious trip to the spa, pampering yourselves is the ultimate Galentine’s treat. Light some candles, sip on coffee or tea with chocolate thins or butter cookies, and let the relaxation begin.

3. Netflix and chill

Instead of the usual popcorn-andcouch setup, turn your Netflix night into an elegant candlelit dinner. Set the table with flowers, candles, and a delicious meal (home-cooked or takeout!). Pick movies or series that celebrate womanhood and sisterhood, like Legally Blonde, Gilmore Girls, Sex and the City, or even Parks and Recreation

Galentine’s Day is a fun excuse to meet up and celebrate love, but it’s also a reminder to nurture the friendships we have as adults. So, every Feb. 13—the unofficial date for Galentine’s Day—take the chance to raise a glass to the amazing women in your life, including yourself. Happy Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day!

For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@ gmail.com.

Mondelēz International head Aleli Arcilla named Mansmith Sales Master

MONDELĒZ International’s Philippine Managing Director, Aleli Arcilla, was recently conferred with the prestigious Honorary Mansmith Sales Masters Award by Mansmith and Fielders. As the first and only sales recognition program across industries in the Philippines, this accolade celebrates individuals who exemplify excellence in sales leadership, innovation, and influence. Aleli’s leadership in growing the snacks company in the country was celebrated and recognized during the event.

Arcilla’s leadership has been instrumental in propelling Mondelēz International’s sales growth by strengthening its snacking categories, particularly in the biscuits and chocolates categories. With a robust portfolio of global brands such as Oreo, Toblerone, and Cadbury Dairy Milk, as well as local jewels Tang, Eden cheese and Cheez Whiz, she has driven market share increase and strengthened consumer connections. Her strategic focus on innovation, agility, and empowering her teams has positioned Mondelēz International as a leader in the competitive snacking industry.

“Reflecting on my career, I recall my beginnings as a Distributor Specialist in Sales,” Aleli shared during her acceptance speech. “The path has been marked by challenges, growth, and invaluable lessons that have shaped the leader I have become today.”

Awards 2024. As the first woman to lead Mondelēz International in the Philippines in almost 15 years, Aleli champions Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the organization. Through mentorship programs for women colleagues across Southeast Asia and the establishment of the Leadership Council, she equips leaders with the tools and insights to drive organizational change.

“Embarking on a sales career, often hailed as one of the world’s oldest professions, I initially perceived it as a world dominated by men,” Aleli recounted. “Over time, I realized the true strength

lies in building relationships, embracing challenges, and fostering a culture of inclusivity.”

Aleli’s commitment to sustainability further underscores her comprehensive leadership approach. Under her guidance, Mondelēz International achieved the Plastic Cleanup Partner badge, reflecting its proactive support of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law in ensuring the post-consumer plastic packaging used by the organization is collected and diverted away from nature. Aleli has inspired initiatives that prioritize reducing plastic waste and carbon emissions in its operations; a commitment to its purpose of empowering people to snack right by making the right snack, for the right moment, and made the right way.

“This recognition is not solely mine; it embodies the collective effort of many who have been integral to my journey including my professors, mentors, colleagues and my family,” she said. “Let’s keep pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and creating a future where every effort counts.”

As a leader, Aleli continues to inspire others to embrace ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Her visionary leadership and commitment to empowering others are shaping a legacy that transcends industries and paves the way for the next generation of leaders.

Managing Director receives Award for transformative growth leadership in the snacking category
Aleli’s achievements extend beyond sales. She has been recognized as a transformative
earning a spot in the Circle of Excellence for Woman Leader of the Year at the Asia CEO

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025

VALENTINE’S

Day is all about creating special memories, and Discovery Resorts is offering a range of romantic experiences at Discovery Boracay and Discovery Coron. Whether it’s a beachside getaway or an intimate candlelit dinner, these offerings promise a memorable celebration.

Couples seeking an island retreat

can book the ”All About Love” package at Discovery Boracay. The three-night stay includes a relaxing spa treatment, a romantic dinner, and personalized touches to enhance the experience.

Today, Feb. 14, Indigo Restaurant is hosting a five-course beachfront dinner for two, priced at P4,900+. Guests will also receive a box of chocolate pralines to mark the occasion.

Throughout February, Forno Osteria presents Unlisteak, offering unlimited USDA Top Blade steak cooked in a Josper oven, served with sides and sauces, for P2,990+ per person.

Sands Restaurant will feature a special Weekend Buffet, blending global flavors with Asian specialties, priced at P1,499+ per person.

For a rejuvenating experience, the Terra for Two package at Terra Wellness Spa includes a 180-minute session featuring a Sea Salt scrub, Terra’s Touch Massage, and a Thai Foot Massage for P12,000 nett per couple. Discovery Coron, on the other hand, offers a mix of adventure and romance with its “All About Love” room package, a three-night stay that includes spa treatments, a moonlit beachside barbecue, sparkling wine, and thoughtful romantic details.

A romantic retreat at Discovery Resorts

For couples seeking a romantic island getaway, Discovery Boracay offers the ‘All About Love’ package which includes a spa treatment and a romantic dinner

Today, Firefish Restaurant is serving a five-course dinner for P2,025 nett per person, offering a gourmet dining experience with ocean views.

Couples can enhance their evening with a Moonlit Dinner setup by the beach for an additional P1,500, featuring candlelight and the sound of the waves.

For those seeking a taste of Filipino cuisine, Discovery Coron’s new restaurant, Sinag, presents a three-course dinner for two at P2,025 nett per person. For reservations, email reservations@db.discovery.com. ph or call +63 2 7720 8888 / +63 36 288 9689 for Discovery Boracay. For Discovery Coron, email reservations@dc.discovery. com.ph or call +63 917 815 8678 / +63 2 7719 6971 to 73.

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METROBANK is holding its annual travel fair today at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati to give cardholders exclusive deals, discounts, and rewards for their next getaway.

The Metrobank Travel Fair 2025 features discounted rates from partner airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and travel merchants. Cardholders can also unlock additional rewards, including cashback offers and raffle prizes.

A single-receipt purchase of at least P10,000 at the fair qualifies Metrobank cardholders for a raffle draw, where two winners will receive a five-day trip for two to Osaka, including hotel accommodations. Five lucky participants will also have the chance to win up to P100,000 in cashback.

Metrobank Mastercard credit cardholders can receive a P1,000 Giftaway e-gift certificate for spending a minimum of P10,000 at participating merchants. International online purchases made from Feb. 10 to March 31, can also earn up to P12,000 in e-gift certificates.

Metrobank Visa cardholders can enjoy cashback incentives when booking flights at the fair, with P2,500 cashback for a single-

receipt transaction of P25,000 and up to P10,000 cashback for a single purchase of P100,000.

Attendees can also participate in booth activities, with chances to win Valentine’s Day treats, along with Giftaway e-gift certificates from Auntie Anne’s, Friday’s, and Italianni’s. For those unable to visit the fair, Metrobank is extending offers through online travel partners. Metrobank Visa credit cardholders can avail of a 16 percent discount on Qatar Airways flights booked via www.qatarairways.com/mbvisa from Feb. 14 to May 31.

Additional discounts include 6 percent off hotel bookings on Agoda and a P4,000 cashback for a minimum spend of P30,000 from Feb. 14 to 16 upon registration at https://metrobankcard. mymcc.gift. Klook is also offering a 25 percent discount on select accommodations, flights, and activities from Feb. 14 to 18.

FOR Amy Lopez Nayve, a Filipino paper engineer, a love that stands the test of time should be paired with flowers that last forever. For this Valentine’s season, the artist-entrepreneur transformed the traditional bouquet into a handcrafted gift to be cherished for years to come.

The young founder of the Pumapapel PopUp Design Studio believes that there is a unique sentimentality found solely in physical items. And thus, she introduced a pop-up rose bouquet as a mailable expression of admiration, endearment, and love.

“Show your feelings and affection to your special someone even if you are far apart with this treasured keepsake,” she shared.

“It is personalized and heartfelt,” she added. “The best part is you can send it anywhere in the world and not be concerned it might wilt before it reaches the receiver.”

This imaginative creation, which folds flat, can be tucked safely in an equally charming envelope. When opened, it pops into an intricate 3D artwork as a heartwarming, pleasant surprise.

Priced at a special Valentine’s offer of P460, it comes with a dainty notecard for handwritten messages, which can likewise be displayed on the vase.

“So much care and love went into designing this bouquet,” Nayve explained. “We hope it will help you convey all your love to your special someone.”

The Industrial Design graduate from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLSCSB) explained sales aim to support the small business to move forward with its advocacy to uplift local artists.

“Not only will you be giving a special and meaningful gift, you will also assist us to support talented Filipino artists and build a brighter future for our creative community,” she stated.

As the first Filipino paper engineer to gain international recognition for her work, Nayve has made it her mission to pioneer the Philippine paper engineering industry and inspire the next generation.

She is part of the 2024 cohort of the SHE Fellowship, a prestigious eight-month leadership and crowdfunding program by The Spark Project and Sasakawa Peace Foundation, which supports women entrepreneurs. This opportunity has fueled her mission to grow Pumapapel and crowdfund for the benefit of Pumapapel’s creative community. For details and orders, visit pumapapelcrafts.com.

P-pop acts to headline first Waterbomb fest in Manila

MANILA will host a starstudded lineup for Waterbomb Festival on Feb. 22 and 23.

The music festival will feature a mix of international and local artists.

The first day of the festival will see performances from hip-hop legend Epik High, known for its introspective lyrics and genre-blending sound, and Dynamic Duo’s Choiza and Gaeko, who gained fame in 2004 with their debut album Taxi Driver

Seasoned singer Kim Jong Kook, popular for his role in Running Man, will also perform, along with EXO’s Chanyeol, MAMAMOO’s Hwasa, and former NU’EST member Baekho, who is now making waves as a solo artist. Other performers include B.I, IZ*ONE members-turnedsoloists Kwon Eunbi and Lee Chaeyeon, girl group STAYC, and DJ ROOTS

On Feb. 23, the festival will feature a powerhouse lineup, including chart-topping rapper Jessi and former Wonder Girls member Sunmi. Vocalist Hyolyn, formerly of SISTAR will also take the stage, alongside GOT7’s BamBam, hiphop artist Gray, and soloist Kang Daniel

Additional performances will come from comedian and singer Yang Sechan, electro-house duo Insidecore, and girl groups Oh My Girl, Siena Girls, and VIVIZ

Waterbomb Manila will also spotlight local talent, with three Filipino acts performing during the festival. Day 1 will

feature GMA Sparkle artist Thea Astley, who rose to fame as The Clash season two runner-up and a regular on All-Out Sundays On Day 2, P-pop acts BILIB and ZÉLA will represent the Philippines.

BILIB, a seven-member boy group under AQ Prime Music, has quickly gained recognition since its debut in July 2023. Known for hits like “Tawag” and “Say What You Wanna Say,” the group has made waves in the P-pop scene, winning awards at the 2024 Miss World Philippines and 16th PMPC Star Awards.

Group member Yukito shared his excitement about performing at Waterbomb Manila for the first time, stating, “We’ve been working hard to perfect our performance, and we can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve prepared.”

ZÉLA, who debuted in September 2023 with “Karma,” has also been gaining attention. Known for her playful anthem “Pogi Boy,” she was named 2023 Philippine Pop Top New Artist of the Year. She will perform at Waterbomb Manila on Feb. 23, bringing her blend of singing, modeling, and acting to the stage.

ZÉLA is determined to make an impact, saying, “It’s a huge platform for a newbie artist like myself. I’ll do my best and ensure they get the performance they expect.”

The festival will not only feature performances but also water activities such as water gun battles, pool parties, ziplining, and bungee jumping. Fans can enjoy food vendors, photo booths, and retail stalls throughout the event.

Waterbomb, originally launched in 2015 in South Korea, has expanded internationally to cities like Dubai, Hong Kong, and Thailand. Combining EDM, hip-hop, K-pop, and R&B with thrilling water-based fun, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Documentary on West Philippine Sea releases gripping teaser

FOOD Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea is a compelling documentary by award-winning director Baby Ruth Villarama that sheds light on the human side of the ongoing maritime conflict between the Philippines and China.

Through the stories of fishermen, Coast Guard officers, and Navy personnel, the film reveals the personal sacrifices Filipinos make to protect the country’s sovereignty.

THE search is on for the queen who will succeed Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo as the next Miss Universe Philippines. Several aspirants are now waiting in line, even as other provinces across the country have yet to proclaim their representatives. Bicolandia has recently named two of its bets: Miss Universe PhilippinesCamarines Sur 2025 Shaina Rabacal and Miss Universe Philippines-Albay 2025 Rani Lachmi Dado

Dado, a 25-year-old artist and junior architect, advocates for sustainable architecture. With years of experience in architecture, visual arts, and project management, she specializes in 3D visualization, space planning, and creative design. She has led community initiatives and managed events promoting sustainability and innovation.

Villarama has recently unveiled the teaser for her highly anticipated film, which is set to be a key entry at the 2025 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival.

Villarama shared that Food Delivery is not just a commentary on political sovereignty but a story about empathy.

“We want the audience to understand that sovereignty is not just a political issue; it’s a deeply personal one for every Filipino,” Villarama said. “From the fishermen risking their lives to feed their families to the Coast Guard and Navy personnel delivering food to soldiers on remote outposts, Food Delivery illustrates the shared sacrifice and collective love we all have to protect our way of life.”

Known for her documentary Sunday Beauty Queen, which won Best Picture at the 2016 Metro Manila Film Festival, Villarama has spent over a decade producing and directing socially-conscious documentaries, many of which have been showcased at prestigious international festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice.

Apart from being an award-winning filmmaker, Villarama is a distinguished academic, having earned a master’s degree in film marketing and distribution from Birmingham City University in the United Kingdom, where she was a Chevening Scholar. She won the 2018 UK Global Alumni Social Impact Award for her films on migration and modern-day slavery. She also

Rabacal, a 25-year-old psychology graduate, currently works as a barista in her home province. She has a competitive nature, having played volleyball during her secondary school years. She advocates for mental health awareness by supporting local initiatives and participating in public discussions on issues such as ending the stigma and improving access to mental health services.

Arts’ cinema committee. With her extensive resume, Villarama is considered a favorite to win multiple awards at the 2025 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, especially with the compelling teaser for Food Delivery

“I am beyond blessed and grateful for this opportunity the ‘Universe’ has given me. I will carry the province of Camarines Sur with pride and full of love, for I know that my strength comes from each and every one of you (my fellow Bicolanos),” said Rabacal, a former Mutya ng PilipinasCamarines Sur 2023 titleholder.

“My background in pageantry and modeling has refined my communication skills and attention to detail, allowing me to adapt to diverse environments. Combining technical expertise with a passion for meaningful design, I bring a strategic and creative approach to every project,” said Dado, who has won several titles, including Miss Bicol University Architecture 2022, Mutya ng Tabak 2023, and Mutya ng Pioduran 2024. Present during the Sashing and Crowning Ceremony at Incanta, Tomas Morato Ave., Quezon City, on Feb. 10, were MUPH VP for Global & National Search Mags Cue, MUPH Director for Asia Pacific & Local Search

serves on several boards, including the Director’s Guild of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the comes of & Arnold Mercado, and Team Albay and CamSur for MUPh 2025.
Miss Universe Philippines-Albay 2025 Rani Lachmi Dado
Miss Universe PhilippinesCamarines Sur 2025 Shaina Rabacal
Villarama is known for her acclaimed
Beauty Queen’
BILIB and Zela (fourth from left) will be headlining the second day of the ‘Waterbomb Festival’
’Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea’ is helmed by awardwinning director Baby Ruth Villarama

EVAP pushes for stronger policies as EV sales surge in PH

THE Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) is urging stronger policy support to maintain the growth of the country’s electric vehicle (EV) industry, following record EV sales in the first half of 2024.

Land Transportation Office (LTO) data shows 10,001 new electrified vehicle registrations in the first half of 2024, nearly matching the 10,388 units registered throughout all of 2023, signaling significant growth in EV adoption.

Edmund Araga, president of EVAP, emphasized the need for continued government action to further accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility.

“The strong growth in EV sales is a positive sign, but we need to ensure that this momentum is backed by long-term policies and investments. Now is the time to solidify our commitment to electrification and create an ecosystem where EV

adoption is practical, convenient, and beneficial for all,” Araga said.

The increase in EV adoption aligns with the implementation of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), which mandates a 5 percent EV fleet requirement for government agencies and corporations. EVAP is pushing for additional measures, such as expanding import tax exemptions on EV components, offering higher subsidies for EV buyers, and accelerating the installation of public charging stations.

The Philippines currently has 500 operational charging stations nationwide, but industry estimates suggest that at least 5,000 will be needed by 2030 to meet projected demand.

Consumer demand has also shifted significantly, with more Filipino drivers considering EVs as a viable alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. Additionally,

AC Mobility Holdings Inc., the official distributor of BYD passenger vehicles in the country, reported selling nearly 5,000 BYDbranded passenger vehicles in 2024, representing an 82 percent share in the Philippine New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market for that year.

This highlights the accelerating adoption of EVs, driven by increased consumer interest and the availability of diverse EV models.

EVAP continues to work closely with the government and private sector to expand public awareness and address concerns about EV

range, charging accessibility, and cost efficiency. The recently concluded 12th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) played a key role in bringing together industry players, policymakers, and consumers to discuss solutions and innovations in the EV sector.

“Many Filipinos are still hesitant about making the switch due to concerns about range, charging accessibility, and upfront costs,” Araga said.

“Through continuous education and incentives, we can show that EVs are not just the future—they are already here, and they make economic and environmental sense,” he added.

EVAP remains committed to ensuring that the Philippines keeps pace with global trends in sustainable transportation, with the goal of achieving 50 percent EV adoption in new vehicle sales by 2040, in line with ASEAN’s electrification targets.

Govt plans to extend 2 mass rail lines

THE Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) is working to extend two of its mass rail systems to alleviate Metro Manila’s traffic congestion.

LRTA administrator Hernando Cabrera said the agency is in the process of acquiring right-of-way for the LRT-2 West Extension Project.

Cabrera said the P2-billion fund for the LRT-2 West Extension Project would be for the property acquisitions. The entire project originally required a total of P10 billion.

“Our focus now, the latest instruction from the Department of Transportation is that while the funds are still insufficient... the available funds should be used to buy the right-of-way,” Cabrera said over DOTr’s Sakay Na! radio program

on Radyo Pilipinas.

“Let’s make it a priority to buy, take care of the right-of-way, including the transfer of utilities such as electric wire, water pipes,” he said. Cabrera said that once the properties were acquired, the implementation of the project would proceed seamlessly.

Once completed, LRT-2 line will be extended five kilometers further west to Port Area, Manila with three more stations, including those in Divisoria, Tutuban and Pier 4.

The feasibility study for the LRT2 East Extension Project is also in

EastWest, Singapore Airlines partner to offer flight discounts

SINGAPORE Airlines (SIA) has partnered with EastWest Bank to offer EastWest credit card holders exclusive discounts on SIA flights.

“We’re pleased to partner with EastWest Bank to offer our customers more value and attractive flight options.,” Liwei Tai, Singapore Airlines general manager for the Philippines said

“The launch is part of a series of upcoming offerings that will synergise great deals and bonus perks from EastWest with SIA’s worldclass service and network connectivity, to encourage our customers to embark on more rewarding travel experiences in 2025,” she added. EastWest credit card cardholders get exclusive access to attractive discounts on SIA tickets using promo code GETAWAY25 via singaporeair.com or the SingaporeAir mobile app. Discounts apply to eligible SIA flights for travel from

15 February 2025 to 31 December 2025.

Lawrence Lee from EastWest Bank said: “This collaboration brings you incredible benefits, like earning 1 KrisFlyer Mile for every P12 spent, along with exclusive promotions such as discounted fares and cash rebates on Singapore Airlines ticket purchases when using your EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard.”

“Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or the adventure of a lifetime, we’re here to help make those dreams a reality. With these amazing offers, you’ll be one step closer to creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime,” he added.

EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum and World Mastercard or EastWest Platinum Mastercard cardholders can enjoy

cash rebates of up to P5,000 when booking flights via singaporeair. com or the SingaporeAir mobile app. Cardholders can also enjoy flexible payment terms by converting ticket purchases into instalments of up to 6 months at 0 percent interest for a minimum single-re-

ceipt spend of P50,000.

its refining stages, according to Cabrera.

“The feasibility study is completed, actually. It’s just being refined,” he said.

Once this is done, Cabrera said it would be submitted to the DOTr and National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) for approval. The LRT-2 East Extension Project will reach Cogeo in Antipolo City with at least three more stations. LRT Line 2 was built at a cost of P31 billion, funded by soft loan from Japan. It is 13.8-km. mass transit line that traverses the cities of Pasig, Marikina, Quezon City, San Juan and Manila along the major thoroughfares of Marcos Highway, Aurora Boulevard, Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard, Legarda and

Additionally, EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum and World Mastercard cardholders who purchase tickets for travel until 30 June 2025 can enjoy KrisFlyer Elite Gold status for a year with a minimum single-receipt spend of at least P50,000.

More rewards for Filipinos: Emirates, Accor loyalty programs unite

EMIRATES Skywards and ALL, the loyalty programs of Emirates/flydubai has strengthened its partnership with Accor to provide members with enhanced benefits and easier reward conversions. Through this collaboration, Emirates Skywards members who are also members of

experiences, or

Points equating to 2,000

of

1,000

for

every Skywards Mile earned and redeemed. And our

enhanced partnership with ALLAccor’s loyalty program will offer exactly that. Emirates Skywards members can now convert Skywards Miles to ALL Reward Points, and access exceptional hotel stays at more than 45 Accor brands worldwide, enjoy limitless experiences and more,” Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional senior vice president Emirates Skywards said.

“ALL loyalty members can also convert ALL Reward Points to Skywards Miles, and enjoy fantastic benefits Emirates Skywards is renowned for – including flight rewards to more than 140 destinations across Emirates’ extensive network. We’re delighted to expand our partnership and work together to offer our members the most rewarding travel experiences in the air, and on the ground,” he added.

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) has been recognized as the second top travel brand in Southeast Asia for 2024, outranking most other Southeast Asian carriers and airlines from Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

The Philippine flag carrier received top scores for buying experience, customer service and domestic brand awareness.

PAL was rated the top travel brand in the Philippines, achieving a best brand score of 63.15%, with the Campaign Asia-Pacific publication hailing it as “a firm favorite among Filipino consumers”.

“We are happy and proud to be recognized as a top Southeast Asian travel brand, and we continue to explore more ways of further elevating the passenger experience all across our global network,” Alvin Miranda, PAL vice president for Marketing said.

“We laud the efforts of our Philippine Airlines employees and service partners in making this achievement possible and embodying the true Heart of the Filipino in the way they care for our passengers,” he added.

Airlines from Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore rounded out the top ten list for 2024.

The rankings are based on the authoritative list of Southeast Asia’s top 50 brands published by Campaign Asia-Pacific, created in partnership with research firm Milieu Insight. Campaign Asia-Pacific has spotlighted reports on the top 10 brands from markets across 10 sectors surveyed in Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore.

The brands were evaluated using attributes such as awareness, purchase frequency, quality, buying experience, customer service, trustworthiness, innovation, customer advocacy and brand touchpoints. PAL also made it to the list of top ten most punctual airlines in the Asia-Pacific region for 2024, tracked by Cirium, a leading aviation analytics company based in London. Ranked as the seventh most punctual airline, PAL was the only Philippine carrier to be awarded a top 10 ranking among Asia-Pacific’s

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