Manila Standard - 2025 February 20 - Thursday

Catholic leaders call for prayers for Pope

CATHOLIC leaders in the Philippines have called on the faithful to pray for the health of Pope Francis as he continues his treatment for a respiratory infection.

Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the

VP asks SC to stop impeachment

But House prosecutor insists no reason to issue TRO vs. trial

By Rachelle Tonelada, Pot Chavez and Maricel Cruz

VICE President Sara Duterte has asked the Supreme Court to review the impeachment complaint against her and bar the Senate from acting on it.

In a petition for certiorari and prohibition filed Tuesday but made public only yesterday, the Vice President said the fourth complaint violated the Constitutional one-year bar on such proceedings. The first three impeachment complaints against Duterte were all filed in December, while the fourth one was filed on February 5. Earlier, a group of lawyers allied with Duterte also filed a similar petition before the High Court, arguing that the impeachment case was

‘Senate prepping for impeachment but no trial during break’

By Ram Superable and Joel Zurbano

THE Senate is already preparing for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, but the proceedings will not begin until Congress is in session, Senate President Francis Escudero said on Wednesday.

“Since the impeachment has already been filed, an impeachment trial is certain to happen, and the Senate must prepare for it. Even though we are in recess, we are not wasting time in making the necessary preparations,” he said in a press conference.

“(But no proceeding) will happen because we are in recess. I will repeat -- no matter what anyone says -- as long as there is no session and the Senate has not convened, no trial can take place. That is clear and explicit in our rules,” Escudero added.

Senators not intimidated by Rody’s kill remark—Escudero

By Ram Superable

SENATE President Francis Escudero does not believe any of his colleagues in the upper chamber were particularly intimidated by former President Rodrigo Duterte’s remark about killing 15 of them to make way for the opposition

By Angelica Villanueva

senatorial ticket.

Speaking to reporters in Quezon City, the Senate President said the former leader’s remark has not even merited a discussion among senators.

“I don’t think any of the senators actually felt threatened by that remark,” Escudero said in Filipino.

He clarified that he did not feel alluded to in Duterte’s comment and saw no reason to take legal action against the former president.

“I didn’t really feel that I was one of the 15. I don’t know who they are, but it seems like I’m not part of it,” Escudero said.

US envoy blasts China for ‘dangerous maneuvers’ by PLAN chopper

By Rachelle Tonelada and Rex Espiritu

THE United States envoy to the Philippines yesterday condemned “dangerous” maneuvers by a Chinese military

helicopter against a Philippine government plane over Scarborough shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

On Tuesday, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela reported that The Bu-

reau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) aircraft was conducting a maritime domain awareness flight at around 7 a.m. when the incident occurred.

The BFAR aircraft, with Coast Guard personnel and photojournalists on-

board, was approached by a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) helicopter which came as close as three meters to the aircraft’s port side and hovered above it.

By Rachelle Tonelada

Sam Milby confirms split with Catriona

Catriona Gray

Sam Milby

NFA RICE ROLLOUT. Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel Jr. leads the inspection and ceremonial turnover of rice stocks of the National Food Authority to select local government units (LGUs) yesterday at the NFA warehouse in Brgy. Malanday, Valenzuela City. Andrew Rabulan

“procedurally defective, constitutionally infirm, and jurisdictionally void.”

Israelito Torreon, chief legal counsel of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ of detained pastor Apollo Quiboloy, led the group seeking to challenge the legality of the impeachment proceedings.

However, a House impeachment prosecutor said there is no reason for the Supreme Court to order a halt to the impeachment proceedings.

“It is our humble submission that there is no sufficient basis for the Supreme Court to issue a temporary

restraining order regarding the impeachment complaint,” impeachment prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said.

“The verification (of the fourth impeachment) which they are questioning, it was followed word for word as written in the rules. So it is our humble opinion there’s nothing wrong with the verification. The Constitution gave authority to the Congress to promulgate its own rules. And in as far as the complaint is concerned, the verification, as written in the rules of the 19th Congress of the Philippines, was followed strictly,” she added.

House leaders also dismissed the Vice President’s petition as “a desper-

ate and baseless legal maneuver aimed at evading accountability.”

“They are so scared that they want to stop the impeachment process. The allegations on corruption seem to be true especially if the bank records can be seen,” Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said.

“VP Duterte’s petition is nothing more than a desperate attempt to evade accountability,” he added.

Deputy Speaker David Suarez said the House followed due process, and that Duterte’s petition sets a dangerous precedent of judicial overreach into a purely constitutional process.

“The House will not be deterred by legal theatrics. We will continue to uphold

our constitutional mandate and ensure that the impeachment process proceeds fairly and transparently,” Suarez said.

The seven Articles of Impeachment against Duterte include conspiracy to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez; malversation of P612.5 million in confidential funds with questionable liquidation documents; bribery and corruption in the Department of Education (DepEd) during Duterte’s tenure as Education Secretary; and unexplained wealth and failure to disclose assets in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), with her wealth reportedly increasing fourfold from 2007 to 2017.

BAGUIO COUNTRY CLUB’S 120TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY. Members, guests, and staff of Baguio Country Club celebrate the company’s 120th year anniversary by releasing white pigeons which symbolize purity, peace and prosperity.

Meanwhile, only 8% of Filipinos align with the opposition, which includes figures such as former Vice President Leni Robredo, the Liberal Party, and their allied movements.

The respondents were asked: “Alin sa sumusunod ang pinakanaglalarawan ng sinusuportahan ninyo sa pulitika? (Which of the following best describes what you support in politics?)”

The data showed that ‘pro-Marcos’ supporters are most concentrated in the National Capital Region (NCR) and the Visayas with 39% and 37%, respectively.

Balance Luzon, which includes Marcos’ bailiwick and so-called ‘Solid North’ registered the highest share at 47%.

However, in Mindanao, where the Duterte political dynasty holds a strong influence, only 9% identify as ‘pro-Marcos.’ Support for the Duterte camp remains strongest in Mindanao, where 63% said they are ‘pro-Duterte.’

‘Pro-Duterte’ are the lowest in Metro Manila and Balance Luzon with only 5% and 2% supporters respectively. Visayas has 12% Duterte supporters.

The survey highlighted a 19-percent increase in ‘pro-Duterte’ supporters among Class E respondents, rising from 21% in the third quarter of 2024 to 41% in the latest poll.

“This surge indicates a strong resurgence of pro-Duterte support in the first quarter of 2025, reversing the previously observed downward trend,” OCTA Research said.

Meanwhile, support for the opposition saw a three-percent increase in Balance Luzon compared to August 2024. Overall, it saw a 1% increase from 7% in the third quarter of 2024.

‘Pro-Opposition’ was strongest in Western Visayas at 26%. Across other regions, support remained below 25%, ranging from 0 to 21% of adult Filipinos.

Earlier, pre-election surveys have shown a similar trend, with Marcosbacked senatorial candidates continuing to lead in voter preference.

At least nine out of 12 Senate seats are currently dominated by the Marcos-aligned slate, “Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas.”

On Wednesday, the group filed a motion for preventive suspension, citing the respondents’ “high positions, power and influence” and the risk that they would interfere in a potential investigation of their allegations.

Also named as respondents in the complaint are House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe of Zamboanga City, House Committee on Appropriations acting chairperson Stella Quimbo of Marikina, and the panel’s former chairperson Elizaldy Co of Ako Bicol party-list.

“They are borne out clearly and unmistakably by the records in the passage of the GAA 2025. Wherefore, it is most respectfully prayed that an order be issued preventively suspending the respondents until the merits of these cases/charges are finally resolved,” they wrote in the motion.

In their original complaint filed on February 10, Alvarez and his group alleged that P241 billion was “inserted” in the 2025 enrolled General Appropriations Bill (GAB) that President Marcos enacted in December.

Earlier, Mr. Marcos assured there were no blanks in the P6.325-trillion budget General Appropriations Act or the 2025

national budget he signed into law.

Lawmakers earlier explained that the bicameral conference committee report that the chamber ratified had blank entries for certain allocations.

But Quimbo and Senate President Francis Escudero explained that the ratified bicameral conference committee report contained an omnibus motion, which states that if there are changes between the report and the printed copy, the latter will prevail.

The Marikina solon also pointed out that the values for the blanks in the bicam report were already determined by the bicameral conference committee and were part of existing documents.

When asked if he would file a complaint or refer the matter to the National Bureau of Investigation, Escudero dismissed the idea, saying there were only specific crimes that require private complainants.

It can be recalled that Duterte made the remark during the proclamation rally of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas senatorial candidates at Club Filipino in San Juan City on February 13.

“If we can kill around 15 senators, we can all go in,” Duterte said in a speech, drawing mixed reactions from the public and political figures. However, despite him shrugging them off, Escudero made it clear that he was not amused by Duterte’s coarse use of words.

“While such statements are disappointing, we have gotten used to them for six years [during Duterte’s term]. If there will be a response to those remarks… I hope it will be in the manner our countrymen cast their votes [during the midterm elections]. As for me, I’m not keen on suing him,” he stressed.

“But I cannot speak for the other senators neither am I speaking for the Senate because we haven’t even discussed this,” Escudero noted.

Meanwhile, Senators Ronald dela Rosa and Bong Go, both known lieutenants of Duterte, insisted that former president only made the remark in jest.

Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., a member of the Alyansa senatorial slate, also said that Duterte’s language should not be taken seriously.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada said that Duterte is really fond of making such jokes, and that “It’s a non-issue for me.”

Still, not all lawmakers were so quick to absolve the former President.

Senator Risa Hontiveros said she is at a loss for words over Duterte’s latest remarks.

“Amid peoples’ sufferings, that’s his response… more violence?”, she lamented.

ABS-CBN News.

“No,” the actor said, when asked if he’s still with the beauty queen with whom he got engaged in 2023.

The break-up rumor spread almost a year ago when Gray removed the engagement post from her feed on Instagram.

He then explained that they are still on good terms.

“If you want to ask if we are okay, we are okay. We don’t have any problem,” he said.

“Cat and I, we’ve always been private about our relationship. We share certain things nung na-engaged kami, but in terms of the details, and buhay namin, we haven’t really shared,” added Milby.

He also clarified that there was no third party involved during his relationship with Gray

“There was never a third party sa amin ni Cat. That needs to be cleared. There is no truth to it at all,” he stated. On the other hand, he also revealed that he and fellow singer Moira Dela Torre were no longer friends.

He said the Office of the Solicitor General will represent the Senate in petitions filed before the Supreme Court regarding the impeachment trial.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Senate to comment within 10 days on a petition compelling the Senate to proceed with the impeachment trial of the Vice President without delay.

Duterte and her allies also filed separate petitions asking the High Court to halt the Senate impeachment proceedings.

“We referred that (petitions) to the Solicitor General’s Office as the government’s lawyer. SolGen will answer, will appear, and will handle the case for the Senate,” he said.

Escudero said while the Senate legal team has drafted an advisory for his review, it would eventually be forwarded to the OSG.

“Perhaps it was providential that we did not proceed with the trial because we took a recess, so all these matters could be brought to the Supreme Court, and the Supreme Court could decide so that nothing would stop or delay the trial using these technicalities or issues that defendant VP Sara might cite dur-

ing the trial in the Senate. So the Supreme Court has enough time to resolve and answer all these issues before the impeachment court even convenes,” Escudero added.

However, Escudero rejected suggestions that there is a “clamor” for the trial to begin immediately.

“What clamor? From who?” he said, adding that three people so far have urged him to begin the proceedings even while during the congressional break.

“I don’t define that as clamor,” the Senate President said.

On Wednesday, Bayan Muna, led by Neri Colmenares, submitted a position paper urging the Senate to convene immediately as an impeachment court.

“This contains the legal basis on why the Senate president can already take action for the preliminaries without the need of drafting a new set of rules,” Colmenares said.

“We hope they can take action...You only need one ground to convict and they can dispose the case even before June 30. They can already finish it if they really want to convene a trial,” he added.

On Tuesday, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said the Upper Chamber is duty-bound to promptly conduct the impeachment trial.

In a letter addressed to Escudero,

Pimentel, a Bar topnotcher, noted the definition of the word “forthwith” as stated in the Constitution.

“Since it is a Constitutional provision or term we are giving to, the term ‘forthwith’ must be interpreted in accordance with the Verba Legis rule, that is, it should be given its ‘plain and ordinary meaning,’” he said in his letter.

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros agreed with Pimentel.

“I agree with his position that, based on his understanding of the Constitution, the directive is clear that once the articles of impeachment have been transmitted to us, we should immediately convene into an impeachment court,” Hontiveros said.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who served as police chief during the Duterte administration, said it was best to wait for the jurisprudence from the Supreme Court.

For his part, Rene Sarmiento, a member of the 1986 Constitutional Commission, said the Senate can convene as an impeachment court even if Congress is on break.

Former presidential adviser Teresita Deles said the decision of the Senate to push back the impeachment trial is not aligned with the provision of the Constitution.

“We condemn the dangerous maneuvers by a [People’s Liberation Army Navy] helicopter that endangered pilots and passengers on a Philippine air mission,” US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said on X (formerly Twitter).

“We call on China to refrain from coercive actions and settle its disputes peacefully in accordance with international law. #FreeAndOpenIndoPacific,” she added.

The PLA Southern Theater Command however accused the Philippines of spreading “false narratives” about the incident. It claimed that it was the BFAR aircraft intruding in the air space of China.

“Huangyan Dao is China’s inherent territory. Without the approval of the Chinese government, the Philippine aircraft illegally intruded into Chinese airspace. Forces of the theater command have to resolutely safeguard our national sovereignty and security,” it said in a statement.

In response, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Wednesday that China must respect Philippine sovereignty and comply with international law.

“The AFP asserts that the People’s Liberation Army-Navy’s (PLAN) illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) must stop,” said AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla in a statement.

Philippines (CBCP), urged the Filipino faithful to keep the pope in their prayers while he remains hospitalized.

“May I ask for your prayers for his healing and recovery during this challenging time,” David said.

Archbishop Charles Brown, apostolic nuncio to the Philippines, echoed the appeal, asking prayers for the pope’s speedy recovery and healing.

“I appeal to everyone to please pray for the Holy Father, pray for his speedy recovery,” Brown said over Church-run

Radio Veritas.

“Let us also pray for all the doctors and nurses who are taking care of him,” he added.

The Vatican said Wednesday that Pope Francis, who has been diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs, passed a “peaceful night.”

“The pope spent a peaceful night, woke up, and had breakfast,” the Vatican said after Francis’s fifth night at the Gemelli hospital in Rome.

Francis was admitted with bronchitis last week after suffering breathing difficulties but has since developed pneumonia in both of his lungs.

Though the Argentine pontiff was

in “good spirits,” the Vatican warned late Tuesday that “the laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture.”

It said Tuesday that a “polymicrobial infection” which has come on top of “bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis, and which required the use of cortisone antibiotic therapy, makes therapeutic treatment more complex.

“The follow-up chest CT scan which the Holy Father underwent this afternoon... demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy,” it said.

The pontiff had part of his right lung

cut away when he was 21, after developing pleurisy that almost killed him.

The Vatican has already canceled a papal audience on Saturday and said he would not attend a mass on Sunday, although it has yet to announce plans for his weekly Angelus prayer, held on Sunday.

Francis, the head of the Catholic Church since 2013, was admitted to hospital after struggling for several days to read his texts in public.

It is the latest of a series of health issues for the Jesuit, who has undergone hernia and colon surgery since 2021 and uses a wheelchair due to pain in his knee.

CATCH. A fishmonger carries a tuna in a fish port in Gen. Santos City, known as the ‘Tuna capital of the Philippines.’

The city will host the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference to be held from February 24 to February 26.

PBBM issues order to reduce real property taxes for local power firms

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued an executive order reducing and condoning real property taxes (RPTs) imposed on independent power producers (IPPs), citing risks to the stability of the country’s energy sector and economy.

Executive Order No. 83, signed on Feb. 13, reduces the real property tax liabilities of IPPs operating under BuildOperate-Transfer (BOT) contracts with government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs). The order also waives accumulated interests and penalties on unpaid taxes assessed by local

IN BRIEF

BCDA handling of disputes ‘alarming’

THE Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) has expressed concern to the Bases and Conversion Authority (BCDA) regarding the ongoing dispute and alleged mistreatment of buyers, particularly foreigners, at Camp John Hay.

The PRA fears this situation will negatively impact efforts to promote the Philippines as a retirement destination.

PRA North Luzon head Eric de Ausen Pati stated that reports of inhumane treatment by the BCDA, sheriffs, and law enforcers are alarming. These allegations contradict the PRA’s efforts to attract foreign retirees. Pati emphasized the difficulty of attracting retirees and how the negative image created by evictions, especially of foreigners from the Forest Lodge and Manor, hinders these efforts.

The PRA is monitoring the evictions in the John Hay Special Economic Zone and will engage with the BCDA to address concerns about inhumane treatment. The goal is to mitigate the negative impact on the country’s tourism industry. Dexter A. See

Itogon is primary beneficiary of water

ITOGON, Benguet—Residents of the municipality must be the primary beneficiaries of the town’s water resources, Mayor Bernard S. Waclin said. This pronouncement comes amid reports that companies are eyeing Itogon’s water sources for Baguio City’s bulk water project. Waclin emphasized that no company will be allowed to exploit local water resources without first ensuring the needs of Itogon’s residents are met. Waclin stressed that Itogon residents should benefit from any development related to their water resources, as the municipality itself faces water supply challenges. He asserted that companies must secure local government consent before utilizing these resources. A key condition for approval will be prioritizing Itogon’s water needs before supplying water to other areas. Dexter A. See

DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian launched the Kaagapay Donations Portal, urging partner social welfare and development agencies (SWDAs) and institutions to utilize it fully.

He emphasized the portal’s role in creating a supportive environment for SWDAs, which the DSWD considers partners in social protection. Gatchalian acknowledged the funding challenges faced by SWDAs and stated that the portal aims to create sustainability, enabling them to thrive and expand. He stressed the partnership between the DSWD and SWDAs, highlighting their collaborative role in social welfare.

Maricel V. Cruz

Marcos signs law on PCG commandant’s 3-year term

FERDINAND Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12122 into law, which establishes a fixed three-year term for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant unless sooner terminated by the president.

The law, which amends Section 5 of Republic Act No. 9993 or the “Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009,” states that a commandant shall lead the PCG with the rank of Coast Guard Admiral.

The president must appoint the commandant from among the flag officers in the Coast Guard service, must hold a command-at-sea badge, and must have served as a district commander of the PCG.

The law mandates that the threeyear term begins upon the signing of the appointment. The commandant will be compulsorily retired upon completion of the term unless relieved earlier by the president.

government units (LGUs).

President Marcos said the measure was necessary to prevent financial strain on the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM), which have assumed a substantial portion of the tax obligations under contractual agreements.

The executive order lowers the assessment level for taxable assets, such as power plants and equipment, from 80% to 15% of their fair market value.

“The collection of these taxes at the maximum assessment level would trig-

ger massive direct liabilities on the part of NAPOCOR and PSALM, threatening their financial stability,” the order stated. It added that enforcing the full tax burden could disrupt the government’s fiscal consolidation efforts and lead to higher electricity prices or power outages. The order also mandates that RPT payments exceeding the newly reduced amount will be credited toward future tax obligations. Government agencies, including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Finance (DOF), are tasked with ensuring compliance.

The legislation was approved by the House of Representatives on Sept. 19, 2024, and was later amended by the Senate on Jan. 20, 2025. The House concurred with the amendments on Feb. 5, 2025, before the final approval by Mr. Marcos on Feb. 18, 2025.

The law takes effect immediately upon its complete publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation. Charles Dantes

UP declares February 25 as ‘Alternative Learning Day’

By Rolando Ng III

THE University of the Philippines (UP) on Wednesday declared February 25 as an “Alternative Learning Day.” UP President Angelo Jimenez made the declaration to commemorate the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.

“The University reaffirms its commitment to upholding democratic values, human rights, and the spirit of People Power,” the declaration read. Chancellors in their respective UP constituent universities will create work and class arrangements to support the commemoration.

The university likewise encouraged its stakeholders to participate in “meaningful and peaceful activities” to mark the said occasion.

Ahead of the system-wide declaration, UP Cebu declared a work and class suspension, while UP Los Baños announced an “alternative learning” setup.

PAOCC confirms investigation following recent raids in Pasay

THE Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) confirmed that the Pasay City local government unit (LGU) is under investigation following recent raids in the area.

PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio also said that the investigation is focused on the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) and another department within the LGU.

However, he clarified that it is too early to determine whether charges will be filed against Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano.

“Possible filing? We cannot say for sure, but the LGU of Pasay is under investigation,” Casio said when asked about possible charges.

Casio emphasized that the scope of the investigation is currently limited to Pasay due to the concentration of raids in the city.

“So far, yes, because most of our raids are in Pasay, so the LGU’s investigation is what we are investigating, specifically the BPLO, two particular offices actually, but the BPLO, I am very sure of that,” he said.

“Then, if the investigation goes up to the local chief executive, it depends on the evidence,” he added.

While reports of similar activities have surfaced in Makati and Parañaque, Casio noted that the PAOCC has not yet conducted a case build-up in those cities due to the absence of raids.

“So far, we have not been able to conduct a case buildup there because we have not had a raid in Makati, we have not had a raid in Parañaque,” he said

“But we have been receiving many reports supposedly from Parañaque and Makati, so we are appealing

in

BLOODY END. Emergency personnel clean up the blood after a man, who has not yet been identi ed, jumped from a footbridge in front of a school in España, Manila. Norman Cruz

FRESH

MILK DEPOT. A medical sta attends to a breastfeeding mother as part of the government’s ‘Human Milk Depot’ program which was o cially launched at the SM San Lazaro. Norman Cruz

for help, hoping that if there really is something, we can be assisted in shutting it down,” he added.

The PAOCC continues to encourage the public to provide information regarding illegal activities

these areas as part of its broader crackdown on organized crime. Charles Dantes

Troopers repel communist rebels in Antipolo City

By Rex Espiritu

TROOPERS from the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division figured in an 18-minute gun battle with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels on Sunday (Feb. 16) in Barangay San Jose, Antipolo City, Rizal.

The insurgents fled, leaving behind some firearms, ammunition, explosive components, communication devices, medical supplies, and subversive documents. No casualties were reported on both sides.

21ID commander Maj. Gen. Cerilo Balaoro Jr. cited the operation’s success in disrupting potential threats even as he urged the rebels to abandon their armed struggle.

He encouraged them to return to mainstream society through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), reaffirming the military’s commitment to eradicating insurgency through intensified operations and collaboration with local communities.

“They should take this chance to start anew through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program because we will further intensify our operations and collaboration with local communities and government agencies to eradicate insurgency as soon as possible,” Balaoro said.

IN BRIEF

Santa Rosa City gets new medical gear

THE Santa Rosa City government sees enhanced delivery of health services to the people as a result of new medical equipment and other vital instruments donated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints headed by Sister Kathy Wharton and Elder Don Wharton.

Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas received the donations on behalf of the City Health Office headed by Dr. Erwin Escal.

The donation consisted of blood pressure apparatus, an infant weighing scale, a portable Electric suction machine, a stethoscope, a portable ultrasound and UPS printer, a doppler ultrasound, a trolley, as well as office equipment such as a laptop, a printer, and a refrigerator.

The mayor said the instruments would be a great help in boosting medical and health services in the city, especially in providing more efficient patient care. Roy Tomandao

DPWH finishes P48-m road project in Biliran

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed construction of the P48.7-million CaraycarayCalumpang Road and slope protection structure in Sitio Lupa, Barangay Calumpang, Naval, Biliran province, addressing the long-standing issue of unstable road section in the area.

DPWH Region 8 Ddrector Edgar Tabacon said the Caraycaray-Calumpang Road served as an important link to government centers in Barangays Calumpang and Larrazabal, particularly for travelers coming from the Biliran-Naval Road Section.

“The road’s location beside a ravine leading to a nearby river, made it highly susceptible to landslides, often causing road closures usually after a period of heavy rainfall,” Tabacon said. To address these risks, the DPWH implemented the concreting of 323 lineal meters of road and a slope protection structure that measures a total of 290 lineal meters. Vito Barcelo

DSWD, PAWS relaunch

Pets’ project

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) have relaunched their collaborative project dubbed “Angel Pets.”

“We are relaunching this initiative to the members of the media so that they can familiarize themselves even more with this significant partnership,” DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said.

Initially introduced during the PAWS’s anniversary in October last year, the Angel Pets is a heartwarming initiative centered on animal-assisted therapy. It aims to enhance the therapeutic services in select centers and residential care facilities (CRCFs) managed by the DSWD.

“The program is designed to facilitate rehabilitation and reintegration of vulnerable groups through sessions that incorporate positive and enjoyable interactions with animals into therapeutic and supportive processes,” Dumlao said. Maricel V. Cruz

BI calls on overstaying POGO workers to voluntarily surrender

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) encourages foreign nationals employed by the outlawed Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) to present themselves to government authorities, restassured that they will not be incarcerated, but assisted instead to be repatriated.

A government official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, indicated that this approach would motivate foreign POGO workers to voluntarily turn themselves in, with the as-

surance that they would be allowed to depart the country within a specified timeframe, enabling them to buy their tickets and prepare for the trip.

The BI said there are more than

11,000 POGO foreign employees who have not left the country as of Dec. 31, the deadline for the nationwide ban on POGOs.

According to BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval, 22,609 out of 33,863 Pogo workers left the country last year. But more than 11,000 defied the deadline and are now considered “illegal aliens” who can be arrested and deported.

Last Nov. 5, President Marcos issued Executive Order Nol. 74 ultimately banning POGOs and internet gaming in the country.

Binay eyes stronger drive vs. rice cartels, smugglers

By Joel E. Zurbano

SENATORIAL candidate and Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay has called for stricter enforcement of laws against hoarding, smuggling, and profiteering, saying the problem lies not in the lack of legislation but in the poor implementation of existing laws.

“There is no shortage of legislation; the issue is always with implementation. We haven’t heard of any rice smugglers being jailed or punished, or of anyone manipulating rice prices,” said Binay who is running for senator in the midterm elections under the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas formed by President Marcos. She reiterated her call for more aggressive measures to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those involved

in rice cartels and smuggling, which are largely responsible for the soaring prices of rice and other agricultural products. Binay suggested that agencies such as the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Customs should prioritize these cases to ensure that offenders are caught and punished. She also highlighted the role of the media in the successful prosecution of smugglers, hoarders, and profiteers. “I believe we would see better outcomes if the media closely monitored how these cases are handled by government prosecutors and the appropriate courts, providing regular updates to the public. We need to keep these cases in the public eye until the offenders are convicted and sent to prison,” Binay said.

The ban was prompted by a rise in criminal activities, social unrest, and the exploitation of individuals employed by POGOs.

Meanwhile, the BI expressed apprehension regarding the increasing number of Filipinos leaving to work in illicit online gaming hubs abroad. Sandoval said approximately 118 Filipinos have been recruited to work in “scam hubs” abroad posing as business process outsourcing (BPO) firms. “We have observed a trend in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. These are some of the countries that our fellow citizens visit, and we have noticed that they have operations similar to POGO. However, this is not confined to these nations,” she said.

Back bets with green agenda—group

N ADVOCACY group on Monday called on the electorate to vote for candidates who support environmental policies.

The group, calling themselves the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST), made the call during a roundtable discussions organized in collaboration with the Climate Reality Project (CRP) Philippines.

The forum gathered together environment experts and other key stakeholders to tackle environmental accountability and transparent governance in the national climate agenda.

In a statement, Stratbase president and PBEST lead convenor Dindo Manhit cited the 2025 midterm elections as an “opportunity to drive transformative change in environmental issues through wise public voting.”

“We, the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship, urge our fellow Filipinos to support proactive leaders with green policies to drive a national climate agenda that could build a climate-resilient, sustainable Philippines,” the statement read.

It said Filipinos consider environment as a national priority, noting the recent survey commissioned by Stratbase, where 87 percent of the responders will support candidates with advocacies addressing climate change impacts and enhancing disaster resilience.\

“By choosing leaders who advocate strategic climate action, decarbonization, and the circular economy, we can foster environmental resilience and national sustainability necessary to drive long-term socio-economic stability,” Manhit said.

“Effective climate action requires strategic collaboration with all sectors of society, and these actions should be anchored on transparent and accountable governance,” he added.

MMDA CUP. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Romando Artes tosses the ball for the ceremonial jump ball kicking off the MMDA Cup 2025 at the Philsport Arena in Pasig City. Manny Palmero

DONATIONS. Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas receives a donation of vital medical equipment from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints headed by Kathy Wharton and Don Wharton. Roy Tomandao

COURTESY CALL. Philippine Air Force chief Maj. Gen. Ulysses Marquez meets with Col. Luong Van Manh, defense attaché of Vietnam to the Manila, during the latter’s call at the PAF headquarters in Pasay City.

OPINION

Transitions

LOST in the welter of political noise occasioned by the official start of the campaign for 12 senators of the realm, the exchange of infantile barbs, and the persistence of newbies in the HoR to proceed with the impeachment trial where everybody and his mother try to decipher the meaning of “forthwith,” are transitions in government that for better or for worse will change the face and pace of this administration as it enters the second half of its reign.

Though Jimmy Bautista’s leadership over the single most important department insofar as urban dwellers and workers are concerned has been marked by praiseworthy achievements like the privatization of the operations of the NAIA complex and the dedicated bus lane in busy EDSA, personal health concerns have taken over his desire to preside over transport modernization.

Jimmy leaves the DoTr with untarnished reputation, the same hallmark of his many years in the private sector.

President Marcos should be credited with his appointment of someone young and quite energetic, who knows how to weld private sector premium on efficiency with the need to cajole effectiveness from an oft slow-paced bureaucracy.

Vince Dizon is a shot in the arm for this administration which is reaching its second half soon with little to show by way of meaningful change in the day-to-day lives of ordinary citizens.

While vital agencies in the transport department are always apples in the eye of both politicians and vested interests, one would hope that Vince is given a free hand by the president in forming his team.

Oftentimes, leadership of Cabinetlevel departments are hobbled by presidential appointees in line agencies they need to supervise.

Just as we salute Jimmy Bautista for a job well done and wish him well as he relaxes in privacy, we likewise hope Vince Dizon is able to cut through the many Gordian knots that prevent important projects to proceed with necessary haste.

Time is running out for Build Better More that hopes to surpass the record of Duterte’s Build, Build, Build where Dizon was the spark plug.

***

Just as important in the success of an administration is communications.

This administration is about to set a record of having four press secretaries in the short three years that it has been in power.

First there was lawyer Trixie Angeles, who has become a vocal critic of the administration. Then another lawyer – Cheloy Velicaria Garafil, who is now happy in her posting in Taiwan as our resident representative, concurrently chairperson of the Manila Economic

and Cultural Office.

Next came broadcaster Cesar Chavez, who is about to be replaced, sources from the grapevine tell us, by another broadcast journalist.

President Noynoy Aquino’s time saw a new style in presidential communications management, a three-headed hydra with a broadcast journalist, a lawyer, and a corporate guy sharing the multi-faceted responsibility of the press secretary’s office.

We hope that good economics will thwart bad politics after the noise dies down in the acrimonious mid-term elections

President Rodrigo Duterte named a broadcast journalist to head presidential communications, one who lasted throughout his term.

While changing of the guard is to be expected in a highly stressful job such as managing the flow of information from the palace to the public, four press secretaries in three years is probably a record in post martial law presidencies. ***

We hear from the palace woodwork that other transitions are about to happen. There could be a leadership change in one of the oldest Cabinet posts in existence.

From the time of Emilio Aguinaldo’s short-lived presidency to the Commonwealth of Manuel Luis Quezon, through the Third Republic and the present, this department has been a constant.

Then there is a relatively new Cabinet level agency created by law during the time of President GMA, the first head of which was named by her successor, President Noynoy Aquino. Changes, long whispered about, will soon materialize, we are told.

With the changing of the President’s guard, one can only hope that meaningful transformations will be forthcoming.

We live in very dynamic times in an inter-connected world where external developments occur fast, and we need to keep in step.

Having been left out by many of our peers in a region where once we were looked upon as a leader, we can only hope that the President chooses well as he reaches half-time.

More than that, we hope that good economics will thwart bad politics after the noise dies down in the acrimonious mid-term elections.

The Secretary of the DOTr

FROM out of the blue, we now have a new DOTr Chief with Secretary Jaime Bautista leaving due to health issues. Whether that is really the case, he is leaving the Department as the 19th chief after almost three years at the helm. One may therefore be tempted to ask whether he is leaving the DOTr or the country’s transportation system in a better shape than when he found it. On this, I say he will be known as the foremost exponent of privatizing public transportation. That is not to say that such is bad per se. Throughout my long years of public service, I spent a lot of time on transportation related work.

And, yes, I was even detailed to the then Department of Transportation and Communications several months after its establishment in 1979. I also had to work and coordinate with the DOTr frequently when I handled traffic management in the NCR during the FVR administration. This gave me the opportunity to observe

the people who were appointed to the exulted position of DOTr Secretary and how they met the challenges of the job.

Of all the many heads of that Department, only one was an engineer. He was the late Jose P. Dans Jr. the first Secretary of the DOTr when it was separated from the DPWH in 1979. He remains to my mind the one with the greatest impact perhaps because it was he who started the ball rolling. It was during his time that LRT1 was started.

Let’s wish Secretary Dizon well and hope he succeeds

With regard to the EDSA traffic, he started the phase out of the jeepneys and tricycles along EDSA which was

EDITORIAL

Alliance building amid WPS tension

UNITED we stand, divided we fall.

That adage rings true today for our country amid the challenges we face in our foreign policy, particularly our relations with our next-door neighbor China.

We are currently strengthening ties with other friendly nations, the latest of which is New Zealand. Our two countries will conclude a visiting forces agreement within the year as we seek to shore up support from more likeminded partners amid growing tensions between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea.

According to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., the negotiations for the key defense pact could finish “within the first semester of the year.

We’re now on the phase of alliance building, strengthening alliances, so the Sovfa (status of visiting forces agreement) with New Zealand is an important part of initiatives to resist China’s unilateral narrative to change international law.”

The Philippines and New Zealand officially started negotiations for the Sovfa on Jan. 23 in Manila. The Sovfa, once signed, will see increased and deeper defense cooperation and allow

unfortunately reversed by the first Aquino administration.

The number of bus operators along EDSA and elsewhere were also reduced to 10 bus cooperatives with specific non-competing routes. These were abandoned when the first Aquino administration took over and allowed the unrestricted number of bus operators along EDSA to come back.

Most of the buses used were imported from China which broke down frequently along with second hand imported buses from China and South Korea.

Most of the rail lines being built today were recommendations made during his term as DOTr Secretary.

The DOTr under him also started helping some cities like Zamboanga, Baguio and Olongapo plan their public transport system and enhanced the training capability of the recently established UP traffic training center which has since been expanded.

Had his successors improved on

both countries to hold exercises in each other’s territories.

“There is a strong political commitment to conclude a status of visiting forces agreement,” New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh. “We are deeply concerned by the current developments in the West Philippine Sea and New Zealand has been consistent in our messages around de-escalation of tensions,” she said.

We need to assert our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea with the help of allied countries who share the same rules-based international order

Like Manila, Wellington is a close security partner of Washington. New Zealand and the United States are also close strategic partners and members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which includes Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. Last September, New Zealand joined

what he started instead of abolishing and reversing many of them, the problems of traffic and public transportation being experienced today would not be as much.

Another example was the traffic operation center set up during his time with the DPWH.

Had that been maintained and modernized instead of being allowed to deteriorate, the traffic signal system of the Metro Area would have been automated instead of its current state.

Former Secretary Jaime Bautista was a pilot and managed the Philippine Airlines. If there was anyone who could have matched the late Secretary JP Dans Jr, it would be him but right now his impact is more on air transportation due to his background.

That is why many airport projects have been initiated. Air transportation, however, has the least problems among the country’s transport modes. It is land transportation that needs the

for the first time a “maritime cooperative activity”—another term for joint patrols and exercises—with the Philippines, Australia, Japan and the United States in the West Philippine Sea as part of its efforts to demonstrate its support for “a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

The defense ministries of both countries also signed in June last year a “mutual logistics supporting arrangement,” a precursor to the Sovfa.

The agreement establishes a process for reciprocal provision of supplies and services during combined exercises and training, UN peacekeeping operations, humanitarian and international relief operation or operations to cope with large scale disasters.

These alliances are needed to counter China’s aggressive claim over nearly the entire South China Sea. It has already seized control of some disputed features from the Philippines, and deployed maritime militia, oil rigs and fishing fleets into our exclusive economic zone.

What we need to do is to continue to assert our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea with the help of allied countries who share the same rulesbased international order and the maintenance of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

most attention because our transportation system is still basically land based.

But let’s meet the new DOTr Secretary, Vivencio Dizon. An economist by training, he was president and CEO of BCDA and did work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He has a reputation of a doer.

Whether that is enough in a highly technical job, we have to wait and see. The job is daunting because the DOTr Secretary has the responsibility of directing and managing the efficient movement of goods and people throughout the country.

And because about 15 per cent of the country’s population lives in the greater Metro Manila area that accounts for 36 percent of the country’s GDP, a great part of that responsibility is centered in the NCR whose traffic and public transport system needs fixing and full attention.

Let’s wish him well and hope he succeeds.

Trump bashes Zelenskyy for invasion

IN BRIEF

Trump outlines Musk’s role as enforcer-in-chief

WASHINGTO, DC – US President Donald Trump painted Elon Musk as his enforcer-in-chief Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time), hailing the tech billionaire’s zeal in implementing the blizzard of executive orders the president has issued since returning to office.

arriving in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv by train and being met by US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink. His arrival came hours after Russian strikes in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa overnight left tens of thousands of people without power, Zelenskyy said.

“At least 160,000 Odesa residents are now without heat and electricity,” he said in a statement on social media.

“Thirteen schools, a kindergarten, and several hospitals have also been left without power or heating.”

The regional governor said four people had been wounded, including a child.

“As a result of a massive enemy strike on a densely populated area of the city, there is no electricity, water, and heating in a large part of the residential quarters,” Gennadiy Trukhanov said on Telegram. AFP

Police seize Islamic books in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Indian police in disputed Kashmir have raided dozens of bookshops and seized hundreds of copies of books by an Islamic scholar, sparking angry reactions by Muslim leaders.

Police said searches were based on “credible intelligence regarding the clandestine sale and distribution of literature promoting the ideology of a banned organization.”

Officers did not name the author, but store owners said they had seized literature by the late Abul Ala Maududi, founder of the Islamist political party Jamaat-e-Islami. Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947, and both claim the Himalayan territory in full.

Rebel groups, demanding Kashmir’s freedom or its merger with Pakistan, have been fighting Indian forces for decades, with tens of thousands killed in the conflict. AFP

Scam

SHWE KOKKO, Myanmar – Battered and bruised Chinese workers from online scam centers in Myanmar faced an anxious wait to return home, as Beijing and Thailand finalized plans on Wednesday for their repatriation.

Scam compounds have flourished in Myanmar’s lawless borderlands, staffed by foreigners, many of whom say they were trafficked and forced to work swindling people around the world.

Many of those involved are Chinese, though people from numerous countries are thought to have been caught up in an industry analysts say is worth billions of dollars a year.

The Karen Border Guard Force, a militia allied with the Myanmar junta, has said it is preparing to deport 10,000 people linked to the compounds in areas it controls on the border with Thailand. In a shabby, strip-lit room in a building in Shwe Kokko — a Myanmar border town known as a hub for scam centers — dozens of workers, mostly Chinese, sprawled on plastic sheeting, looking exhausted as they awaited their deportation. AFP

In a joint interview broadcast on Fox News, the two men spent substantial time singing the other’s praises and dismissing concerns that Trump is overstepping his executive powers.

Trump has signed scores of executive directives in the past three weeks, many of which have been challenged in the courts as potentially unconstitutional.

Billionaire Musk, who was Trump’s top donor during his 2024 presidential campaign,

UN watchdog chief visits Fukushima as Japan returns to nuclear power

was tasked with leading the newly-created Department of Government Efficiency, with the declared goal of rooting out “waste, fraud and abuse” in federal spending.

“One of the biggest functions of the DOGE team is just making sure that the presidential executive orders are actually carried out,” Musk told Fox News.

In the interview, Trump insisted his policies — including a wholesale onslaught on federal institutions — should be implemented without delay and said Musk was instrumental in pushing them forward.

“You write an executive order and you think it’s done, you send it out, it doesn’t get done. It doesn’t get implemented,” Trump said.

He added that Musk and the DOGE

OKUMA, Japan – The UN nuclear watchdog chief visited Japan’s stricken Fukushima plant on Wednesday, the day after Tokyo approved an energy plan that marks a return to nuclear power to meet growing demand for AI.

The International Atomic Energy Agency is monitoring Japan’s efforts to decommission the Fukushima Daiichi plant after a 2011 earthquaketriggered tsunami killed 18,000 people and set off the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl.

As IAEA head Rafael Grossi arrived in Japan on Tuesday, the cabinet adopted a plan to increase reliance on nuclear power to help meet growing energy demand from artificial intelligence and microchip factories.

“At a moment where Japan is embarking on a gradual return to nuclear energy in its national energy mix, it is important that this is also done in complete safety and with the confidence of the society,” Grossi said after meeting the foreign minister.

Japan had previously vowed to “reduce reliance on nuclear power as much as possible”.

But this pledge was dropped from the latest Strategic Energy Plan — which includes an intention to make renewables the country’s top power source by 2040. AFP

team have now become an enforcement mechanism within the federal bureaucracy to enact his administration’s agenda without anyone standing in their way -- or else risk losing their jobs.

“And some guy that maybe didn’t want to do it, all of a sudden, he’s signing it,” Trump said.

The Fox interview was broadcast just hours after Trump signed a sweeping executive order that sought to extend and consolidate direct White House control over federal regulatory agencies.

The order, which is likely to face legal challenges, would force agencies like the Securities and Exchange Commission to submit regulatory proposals to the White House for review. AFP

PALM BEACH – US

President Donald Trump has effectively blamed Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy for Russia’s invasion, as French President Emmanuel Macron prepares for another round of talks with EU and non-European partners on Wednesday.

Zelenskyy previously criticized the US-Russia talks for excluding Kyiv, saying efforts to end the war must be “fair and involve European countries.

The Ukrainian leader’s comments appeared to incense Trump, who launched a series of verbal attacks on Zelenskyy.

“I’m very disappointed, I hear that they’re upset about not having a seat,” Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Tuesday.

“Today I heard, ‘oh, well, we weren’t invited.’ Well, you’ve been there for three years... You should have never started it. You could have made a deal.”

Trump also suggested he could meet Russian President Vladimir Putin before the end of the month in Saudi Arabia as he overhauls Washington’s stance towards Moscow — a shift that has alarmed European leaders.

Earlier Tuesday, Russia and the United States had agreed to establish teams to negotiate a path to ending the war in Ukraine after talks that drew a strong rebuke from Kyiv, with Zelenskyy postponing his own trip to Saudi Arabia.

France’s Macron announced another meeting in Paris on Ukraine after the USRussia talks, adding that Trump “can restart a useful dialogue” with Putin. Trump also increased pressure on Zelenskyy to hold elections — echoing one of Moscow’s key demands.

Asked whether the United States would support demands that Russia wanted to force Zelenskyy to hold new elections as part of any deal, Trump began by criticizing what he said were the Ukrainian’s approval ratings.

“They want a seat at the table, but you could say... wouldn’t the people of Ukraine have a say? It’s been a long time since we’ve had an election,” said Trump. AFP

Vietnam parliament approves $8 billion rail link to China

HANOI – Vietnam’s parliament on Wednesday approved plans for an $8 billion rail link from its largest northern port city to the border with China, boosting links between the two communistruled countries and

initiative, which connects to Beijing’s Belt and Road global infrastructure program.

The approval comes just over a year after the neighbors pledged to deepen ties during a visit to Vietnam by President Xi Jinping, as Beijing sought to counter growing US influence with Hanoi. Vietnam’s transport infrastructure is considered relatively weak, with a road network struggling to keep up with demand and an underdeveloped rail system. The country is an increasingly favored destination for foreign businesses looking for an alternative to China, but lowquality infrastructure is seen as holding back surging investment.

Dan Martin, international business adviser

US envoy Kellogg arrives in Kyiv

Top juniors set for battle in Olivarez junior netfest

OVER 200 young tennis players, including some of the country’s top junior athletes and emerging stars, are set to compete in the Dr. Pablo Olivarez National Junior Tennis Championships, which kicks off Thursday in Sucat, Parañaque.

To accommodate the large number of participants from the National Capital Region and neighboring provinces, matches will be held across two venues – the Olivarez Sports Center and the Parañaque courts. Players will battle for titles and ranking points in nine agegroup divisions for singles and five for doubles. Leading the girls’ 18-and-under category are Mikaela Ngu, Izabelle Camcam, Dania Bulanadi and Cadee Dagoon, while the boys’ side features Ariel Cabaral, Frank and France Dilao and Antonio Ng Jr. in the 32-player draw.

Dagoon enters as the top seed, with Camcam and Bulanadi ranked third and fourth, respectively, in the 16-and-U category. They are joined by second seed Jasmine Sardona, as well as Chiara Bate, Astrid Cablitas, Claire Casiller and Ava Banson.

The boys’ 16-and-U division also boasts a competitive 32-player lineup, including Anthony Cosca, Lucas Go, Zachary Morales and Marwin Plata.

In the 14-and-U category, Shaner Gabaldon, fresh off a win at the Mayor Rolen Paulino Junior Tennis Festival in Olongapo, aims to continue her strong performance. She will face tough competition from Isabelle Ataiza, Zhia Liwag and Francine Wong.

Meanwhile, Cosca hopes to achieve a “double” victory, contending with Jairo Flores, Jacob Gonzales and Joshua Stewart in the boys’ division. For the 12-and-U class, Liwag, Wong, Gabaldon and Stella Marie Policarpio lead the girls’ bracket, while Jairus Peralta, Caleb Villeno, Yuan Torrente and Tyronne Caro headline the boys’ draw.

In the 10-and-U unisex division, Maximus Calingasan eyes another title but will face stiff competition from Matias Aguilera, Ellythia Comia and Xander Cas.

Doncic energizes LeBron as NBA homestretch starts

WASHINGTON—LeBron James is energized to play alongside new Lakers teammate Luka Doncic, while in Oklahoma City, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hopes a National Basketball Association title will secure his place among league legends as the regular-season homestretch begins.

The NBA returns from the All-Star break on Wednesday when the Los Angeles Lakers, led by James and Doncic, entertain Charlotte in a game postponed from January by wildfires.

The Lakers, fifth in the Western Conference at 32-20, made a deal with Dallas on February 2, trading away forward Anthony Davis and others to obtain Slovenian guard Doncic, uniting the playmaker with 40-year-old legend

James in hopes of making the Lakers a title contender.

“Just the excitement of being able to add a caliber player like that, a generational talent like that to our franchise, it’s something that has given me energy,” James said.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do. We only had two games so far and I believe he has been on a minutes restriction since he came back

from the calf (injury).

“As he continues to get in form, I think we could be really good going down the stretch. But we’ll see what happens.”

James missed the NBA All-Star Game while resting a foot and ankle injury ahead of facing Charlotte on Wednesday and visiting Portland on Thursday.

“With 30 games left and us trying to make a playoff push in the wild, wild west, I feel like it’s important for me to take care of myself and understand what’s coming on,” James said. “I have to look out for myself when it comes to this injury that I’ve been dealing with for years.

“Hopefully I can play against Charlotte on Wednesday and Portland on Thursday. It’s a big stretch for us.” AFP

ONE’s Soldic recalls knocking out UFC champ Du Plessis

ROBERTO “Robocop” Soldic was the last fighter to beat UFC Middleweight World Champion Dricus du Plessis, and while he praised the South African MMA fighter for giving him fits, he believes his old foe hasn’t improve much since their last fight.

Aside from being the last fighter to beat Du Plessis, he’s also the only guy to knock the 31-year-old out. Soldic finished him in the third round of their rematch in 2018.

“I fought Dricus two times, the last time I beat him. From that fight he didn’t upgrade much, so he’s the same fighter. But I’m not surprised that he’s a UFC Champion because he gave me really tough fights,” Soldic said.

Soldic also disproved the notion of Du Plessis being unskilled, listing a couple of things that the South African does well judging by their previous two fights.

But in their rematch, Soldic had him read, and he made sure to finish Du Plessis the moment an opportunity opened.

“When we went to the third round,

it was in deep waters, it was a tough fight for the both of us. He doesn’t give up. He looks unskilled, but he’s really skilled. He’s got straight punches, he’s got a good left high kick, he can take you down, he can submit you, he’s a full complete MMA fighter,” he said.

“But I read everything that he throws, I was patient, waited for the mistake, and I got him in the third round with the knee and the left punch. You know when I connect, the fight is over.”

But that’s all he’ll say about Du Plessis, especially with a tough fight coming up.

Soldic looks for his first win in ONE when he faces the dangerous Dagi Arslanaliev in a three-round welterweight MMA bout at ONE 171: Qatar this Thursday, February 20, inside Lusail Sports Arena in Doha.

“His last loss was from me, but now I’m with ONE Championship, and my focus is on my future [with this organization]. I [will] try to get MMA gold in ONE Championship,” he said.

“I don’t know if we’ll fight again,

maybe in the future, but for now I’m focused on my fight this Thursday at ONE 171,” he added.

“You never know [if we’ll fight

again], but I don’t think he’s upgraded his skills. He’s the same fighter. I think I can beat him again, but my main focus now is on Dagi.”

Cool Smashers face Highrisers, Angels take on Chameleons

EXPECT Creamline and Petro Gazz to get past Galeries Tower and Nxled, respectively, in three or four sets as they aim to maintain their top two positions heading into the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference qualifying round at the Philsports Arena in Pasig. However, the struggling Highrisers and Chameleons will go all-out to build momentum and boost their confidence before facing higher-ranked teams in the next round.

The preliminary round reaches its second-to-last playdate today (Thursday), with the Cool Smashers and Angels favored to dominate their lowerseeded opponents at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., respectively. Currently, Creamline and Petro Gazz are neck-and-neck in the race for the No. 1 seed, both carrying 9-1 winloss records and 26 points. However, the Cool Smashers hold a slight edge with a 29-point set win aggregate, compared to the Angels’ 27.

While the battle for the top seed adds intrigue to the title race, both teams will advance to the serpentine pairing system, which matches No. 1 against No. 12, No. 2 against No. 11, and so on.

One challenge for the Highrisers is that the Cool Smashers will be highly motivated to bounce back after their 19-game winning streak, dating back to last year’s Reinforced Conference, was snapped by the surging PLDT High Speed Hitters in a five-set thriller last weekend.

That victory by PLDT added an element of unpredictability to the knockout phase of the six-month-long tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by Watsons, but the Top 4 teams remain solid favorites to advance to the best-of-three quarterfinals, with the middle-ranked squads likely battling for the remaining spots on even terms.

Losing teams in the qualifying round will still have a chance to secure a quarterfinal slot through a play-in tournament for the last two berths.

On paper, Creamline and Petro Gazz are expected to cruise past Galeries Tower and Nxled, respectively. However, the Highrisers and Chameleons, both at 1-9, remain hopeful of pulling off major upsets – though they will need more than just luck to do so.

“It’s okay. Even though we lost last night, we recovered today, so we were able to bounce back a bit. But we didn’t really dwell too much on yesterday’s loss,” said Cool Smashers head coach Sherwin Meneses in Filipino.

Creamline, boasting a powerhouse lineup featuring Jema Galanza, Bernadeth Pons, Michele Gumabao, Tots Carlos, and Pangs Panaga, holds a clear advantage over a Galeries Tower squad led by Ysa Jimenez, Jewel Encarnacion, Roselle Baliton, France Ronquillo, Jho Maraguinot, and rookie setter/ hitter Julia Coronel.

While Creamline looks to bounce back, Petro Gazz is seeking to extend its win run to nine against Nxled.

BACOLOD—With a trio of aces returning one-over-par 71s worth 35 points each, Eastridge-Primehomes on Wednesday tallied 105 at tricky Bacolod Golf Club (formerly Binitin) to open up a 12-point lead in the 76th Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub Men’s Championship division tournament, with the surprise of the day being powerhouse Manila Southwoods skidding to third spot. Jeff Lumbo, Alex Bisera and Ronel Taga-an formed a threesided blade that Eastridge used to slice a huge gap on the field heading into the final two rounds of what is considered as the country’s unofficial team golf championship, with the Binangonan-

based taking a 204 aggregate into the third round also at Binitin.

But non-playing skipper and club general manager Gimo Asuncion is not about to fall into a trap of going all out in round three, as he was still deep in talks with team members after their sterling effort to prepare rosters that will see action in the final to days.

“It’s always good to be leading,” Asuncion said. “But we don’t want to get ahead of ourselves. We would want to come out with balanced lineups for the last two rounds. We will stick to the game plan that we came here with.”

So efficient was Eastridge that it threw away the 31 points of 12-year-old wonder Vito Sarines

even as Tagaytay Highlands-Team IMG is now the new pursuer after tallying 98 points built around the 34 of Joaquin Tolentino. Raymund Sangil and Masaichi Otake accounted for 32s to complete scoring for Tagaytay Highlands, which also discarded a 31 turned in by another South Korean, Steve Yoon. Southwoods, which is bidding to win this tournament for the sixth time in the last seven years, has never lagged this far behind in a dominant performance that has stretched for more of the last decade.

But after tallying just 94 points led by Patrick Tambalque’s 32, the Carmona-based squad is now

17 points behind.Emil Hernandez and Mico Granada accounted for 31 points each, while comebacking ex-pro Jerome Delariarte had his struggles and failed to count with 24 points.

Cebu Country Club, meanwhile, wrested a three-point lead over Riviera Golf Club in the Founders division after shooting 94 points over at Negros Occidental Golf Club (formerly Marapara) for a 189 aggregate, with Jacob Cajita returning 34 points. Marko Sarmiento accounted for 32 and Harvey Sytiongsa contributed 28 to round out scoring for Cebu CC, a former Championship division campaigner which discarded the 20 points of Julius Neri.

LeBron James and Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers are shown at the bench during an LA-Utah game at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. AFP

Roberto Soldic

Jeff Lumbo

Dominant PH nets 2 golds, 2 silvers at Asian jiu-jitsu tilt

By Peter Atencio

SUPPORT to members of the Philippine men’s curling team that won the country’s first-ever gold medal at the Asian Winter Games is coming.

Officials of the Philippine Sports Commission, headed by chairman Richard Bachmann, made this assurance as the team gets ready to embark on its next quest, which is to join a pre-Olympic qualifying tournament set from October 17 to 24 this year at a location that has yet to be announced.

“The Philippine Sports Commission remains committed to expand the necessary support for winter sports, and provide appropriate programs that will be delivered within the grassroots level, “ said Bachmann in a statement.

On Monday, the curlers composed of Marc Pfister, Christian Haller, Enrico Pfister, Alen Frei, alternate and Curling Pilipinas president Benjo Delarmente and

By Randy M. Caluag

AMARIS Gabrielle Villanueva and Bailey Heinsohn delivered stellar performances, leading the Philippine team with gold-medal finishes at the recent 2nd Jiu-Jitsu Asian Youth Championship in Bangkok, Thailand.

Villanueva triumphed over Kazakhstan’s Natali Gorbunova in the final match, clinching the gold medal in the U16 female +63kg division.

Heinsohn secured the top spot in the U16 female -32kg category after defeating compatriot Kyra Victoria Abella, resulting in a gold-silver finish for the Philippines.

Adding to the medal haul, Sachin Khongkhun bagged silver in the U18 female -52kg division.

The team also earned five bronze medals, thanks to outstanding performances by Zeus

Babanto (U16 male +77kg), Eavan Marcus Chang (U16 male -40kg), Sean Khale Juatan (U16 male -44kg), Chase Emmanuelle Mapalo (U16 male -69kg), and Jin Gabriel Ong (U18 male -48kg).

Overall, the Philippine team brought home an impressive tally of 2 golds, 2 silvers, and 5 bronzes.

The team was accompanied by coaches Prof. Stephen Kamphuis, Prof. Meggie Ochoa, Coach Chris Gallego and team managers Prof. Joshua Abella and Lee Ochoa.

Pfister’s wife Jessica, were honored by the Philippine Olympic Committee via a $30,000 incentive.

“I believe that we have a much stronger team than the others,” said Delarmente, referring to the squads which made Olympic qualification, such as Chinese Taipei, South Korea and Austria.

The group left Tuesday for the US and Switzerland to rest and prepare for their next competitions.

Last December, the Philippine curling team also made history at the Pan-Continental Curling Championships in Canada.

Emerging undefeated, the group secured first place in the B division by beating Kazakhstan in the final.

This paved the way for the team to move up to the A-Division, bringing them a big step closer to realizing their dream of competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano, Cortina.

LAUREL, Batangas— Power-hitting Jaehyun Jung turned Splendido Taal Golf Club into his personal playground, delivering a brilliant eagle-spiked five-under 67 to seize a commanding four-stroke lead midway through the Philippine Golf Tour Qualifying School on Wednesday. While the rest of the 112 hopefuls battled gusty winds and the challenges of the rolling par-72 layout, Jung showcased his superior power, iron play and putting. His near-flawless execution, particularly on the three par-5s, positioned him as the leader at six-under 138.

After an opening-round 71 that left him tied for third with Carl Corpus and Atsushi Ueda, two strokes behind Ji Sung Cheon, Jung set the course ablaze early. He eagled the par-5 No. 2 and followed up with

three straight birdies from No. 5. He continued his dominance by capitalizing on the long holes, birdieing Nos. 9 and 11.

But just when he thought he had the course all figured out, it struck back, forcing him into back-to-back bogeys from No. 13. He steadied himself thereafter, parring the remaining holes to finish with a 30-37 for a sixunder 138 total, including his opening-round 71.

Despite the late stumble, he claimed a four-stroke lead over Cheon, who rallied in a frontside finish, birdying two of the last five holes to rescue a 73 and a 142.

“The course, for me, is relatively short but tricky. You really have to be precise with your tee shots,” said 19-yearold Jung, who showcased his power game by dominating the long holes. On the par-5 No. 2, he unleashed a 3-wood off the mound, followed by a

solid 7-iron from 198 yards, landing the ball 20 feet from the hole, before sinking the putt for eagle.

When asked about the difference between his first and second rounds, Jung credited his putting. “Definitely, it was my putting,” he said. “In the first round, I carded a 71 in the morning wave, but today, my putting was much better. Swingwise, my game felt similar, but my putting made all the difference.”

The switch in tee times turned out to be an advantage for the Seoul native, who thrived in windy conditions. His precise approach shots consistently landed within 15 feet, leading to three consecutive birdies from No. 5. However, he admitted that the back nine posed a challenge. “I actually struggled with the wind there. It kept changing direction a lot,” he added.

NATIONAL University made quick work of a shorthanded Ateneo de Manila University, 25-23, 25-19, 25-15, to stay unbeaten in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Overcoming a tough opening set against a Blue Eagles squad reeling from season-ending injuries to Zel Tsunashima (broken left shin) and JLo Delos Santos (torn left ACL), the Lady Bulldogs quickly regained their rhythm, dominating the next two frames to improve to 2-0—all via straight sets.

With the win, NU continued its dominance over Ateneo, securing its seventh consecutive victory against the Blue Eagles, a streak that began with a four-set triumph on May 7, 2022, in Season 84.

“Sobrang happy ako. Talagang total team effort ‘yung nangyari today sa game. Hopefully, mag-improve pa ‘yung team effort ng NU sa mga next game namin,” said NU head coach Sherwun Meneses.

The Blue Eagles fought back from a five-point deficit in the third set, cutting the gap to 11-9, but reigning MVP Bella Belen, Vange Alinsug, and Chamy Maaya led a blistering 7-1 run to give NU an 18-10 cushion.

Two attacks from rookie Celine Marsh and a block from Maaya sealed the Lady Bulldogs’ second straight win while keeping Ateneo winless. NU established control early in the second set, racing to a 14-6 lead. This time, the Lady Bulldogs held their ground, capitalizing on an attack error by Jihan Chuatico and a crosscourt kill from Alyssa Solomon to build a commanding 2-0 set advantage.

Ateneo, however, put up a strong fight in the first set, rallying from an 11-16 deficit to pull within 23-22. But Alinsug delivered two consecutive off-the-block kills to secure NU’s opening frame.

Cone: We’re hoping that Doha made Gilas better

GILAS Pilipinas seeks to come up with a better performance when it clashes with Chinese Taipei in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers on Thursday at the Taipei Heping Basketball Gymnasium.

A disappointed coach Tim Cone said this after Gilas Pilipinas ended its 2nd Doha International Cup campaign with a lone victory in three assignments.

“The Doha experience, it’s disappointing. But we’re hoping that Doha made us better,” said Cone after the team arrived in Taipei in Tuesday. While in Doha, the nationals fell to Egypt, 55-86, during their early Monday morning clash at the QU Sports and Events Complex. Before that, Gilas lost to Lebanon, 54-75, following a 74-71 victory over Qatar.

“We didn’t perform as well as we wanted to in Doha. Anytime we’re playing on the world stage, it’s important to win. But the bottom line is that the Doha games were a development camp for us,” Cone. Gilas has a perfect 4-0 record in the FIBA qualifiers and already earned a spot in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025. Against a revamped Chinese Taipei, which has 1-3 win-loss record, Cone wants to be a tough team.

“We can’t afford to rest right now. We just have to keep pushing forward,” added Cone.

The Taiwanese will banner new players, like Mohammad Al Bachir Gadiaga, who plays in the Japan B.League, and naturalized 7-footer Brandon Gilbeck.

Taipei coach Gianluca Tucci is also expected to add Ying Chun Chen, Chien Hao Ma, and Long Mao Ha to the squad. Peter Atencio

Jaehun Jung showcased his superior power, iron play and putting to grab a four-shot lead with a six-under 138.

Ateneo’s

San Juan.

Bailey Heinsohn and Kyra Victoria Abella Lee Ochoa

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann

WHAT’S INSIDE?

PAGCOR clarifies rules on special class BPOs

State-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) on Wednesday clarified its support for business process outsourcing providers that serve overseas gaming companies.

PAGCOR said in a statement it supports special class business process outsourcing (SCBPO) companies, citing the sector’s contribution to providing thousands of jobs for Filipinos.

creating thousands of jobs for our countrymen, and we thank our foreign investors for recognizing the unique talent of our workers who provide excellent outsourced services for them,” Tengco said.

EU provides P1-b grant to strengthen PH justice system

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Finance has secured a P1 billion grant from the European Union (EU) for a program to protect Filipinos’ rights to a responsive justice system, which is key to achieving economic security and prosperity.

The grant agreement for the Enabling Justice and Rule of Law in the Philippines of the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC) worth 16.5 million euros (about P1 billion) was signed on Nov. 22, 2024. Grants are financing instruments given by development partners with no obligation for repayment.

It aims to contribute to the Philippines’ socio-economic development by creating a more effective, inclusive and accountable justice system.

“This agreement is of great importance to us because we recognize that economic progress and the rule of law must go hand in hand,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said in a statement.

Recto said there could be no real economic growth without trust in the law as people could not confidently participate in the economy, pursue better opportunities and build a future defined by dignity.

“And without progress, our people cannot reach their full economic potential, keeping them in the grip of poverty. Ultimately, a properly functioning justice system is key to achieving economic security and prosperity,” Recto said.

PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco assured foreign chambers of commerce that the state gaming firm would continue its advocacy for SCBPOs and their expanding operations in the Philippines.

“We recognize the immense contribution of the SCBPOs in

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier ordered the closure of all Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs) in the country, but PAGCOR said SCBPOS are not POGOs.

Tengco said SCBPOs are similar to ordinary BPOs that support business operations in other

countries, although they are licensed by PAGCOR because they cater to gaming companies abroad.

“The only difference from regular BPOs is that SCBPOs support the operations of legitimate gaming companies overseas, many of which are publicly traded firms, by providing human resources, marketing, graphic design, accounting and other backoffice work,” Tengco said.

“We also make sure that the SCBPOs are not directly engaged in gaming operations such as taking or soliciting bets,” Tengco said He said the SCBPO sector employs nearly 5,000 local workers, with plans to expand operations and hiring because foreign principals who run the companies find Filipinos exceptionally talented.

By Othel V. Campos

OMODA and Jaecoo International entered the Philippine market on Feb. 18, 2025, with a grand launch at the BGC Arts Centerin Taguig City.

Omoda and Jaeco chief executive Shawn Xu said the brands are committed to expanding their local presence and dealer network to support its global growth strategy.

Omoda and Jaecoo are two brands of Chinese vehicle manufacturer Chery that are only marketed outside China.

“The Philippines is a key market for us in Asia. We currently have six dealerships, but we plan to expand to 24 within the year to better serve Filipino consumers,” Xu said.

“In the next six months, we expect to reach 500 units per month in sales in the Philippines, scaling up to 1,000 units monthly by year-end,” Xu said.

“We are building our brand presence, increasing awareness, and gaining customer trust worldwide,” he said.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

TOKYO Gas Co. Ltd., Japan’s largest natural gas utility company, said it completed the acquisition of a 20-percent equity ownership in FGEN LNG Corp., a subsidiary of First Gen Corp. that owns and operates a $370-million liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project at the First Gen Clean Energy Complex in Batangas City. The acquisition, Tokyo Gas’ first investment in a commercially operational overseas LNG terminal project, was made by way of a subscription to a 20-percent ownership in FGEN LNG.

ECONOMIC BRIEFING. Department of Budget and Management (DBM)

Omoda and Jaecoo expanded to 34 markets in less than two years. The brands aim to be in 55 markets by 2025, strengthening its foothold in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Recent launches include Spain, with upcoming entries into Poland, Italy and Beijing. Germany and Brazil are also in the pipeline this year, while expansions into Greece and the Czech Republic are progressing. The brands are set to launch in the UAE and Qatar this month.

“We welcome Tokyo Gas into the First Gen group. This subscription will deepen our partnership and enhance synergy that will boost our efforts in support of the Philippines’ energy security and stability, even as we all pursue decarbonization,” said FGEN LNG vice chairman and chief executive and concurrent First Gen president Giles Puno in a statement. Tokyo Gas said in a separate statement it would leverage its extensive expertise in the optimal operation of LNG terminals, accumulated over many years in Japan, to support the operation and maintenance of the LNG terminal.

Mid-end, high-end condo supply in NCR

450,000 units 8%

Unsold condo units in NCR

250,000 units

Completed units outside NCR

PH real estate sector nears tipping point, says analyst

THE cyclical slowdown in the Philippine real estate sector, which mirrors the experience at the onset of the global financial crisis in 2008, is nearing a tipping point, according to Cushman & Wakefield, a global commercial real estate services firm.

Cushman & Wakefield said the Philippine real estate market is experiencing unique challenges, shaped by unprecedented factors such as the global pandemic, geopolitical tensions and rapid technological advancements.

“Across all key Philippine real estate sub-sectors, the increased demand for higher-quality, well-located, and resilient developments is significantly shaping the future real estate landscape,” said Claro Cordero Jr., head of research, consulting and advisory services for the Philippines at Cushman & Wakefield. Cushman & Wakefield said that in the office segment, it observed a decline in average Prime and Grade A office developments in Metro Manila for the fifth consecutive quarter. Average rental rates for office developments in CBD areas decreased by 2.9 percent year-on-year, while non-CBD areas experienced a more significant decline of 4.2 percent year-on-year.

“Overall, vacancy rates are expected to stabilize around 17 percent to 18 percent in 2025,” it said. It said that in the residential segment, the disparity between highend and mid-end segments has become more pronounced. It said that while the oversupply of condominiums was concentrated in the high-end market during the Asian financial crisis, excess inventory is now focused on the mid-end market, which faces various issues.

“The mid-end market faces a critical supply-demand mismatch, as buyers now prefer larger units, a substantial turnaround from the market-acceptable development density following the Asian financial crisis, while available studio types are often less than 25.0 square meters. Additionally, unrealistic, and highly inflated selling prices contribute to the market’s challenges,” Cordero said.

INDIA-PH FLIGHTS. Officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) meet with Air India executives on Feb. 18, 2025 at the CAAP Central Office in Pasay City. A key focus of the discussion is the application process for establishing direct air service between India and the Philippines, a move that could significantly boost tourism and trade relations between the two countries.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

MONDE Nissin Corp. said Wednesday it expects its core net income to increase by over 25 percent this year after registering strong fourthquarter results.

The company’s full-year revenues are also expected to grow over 3 percent on the back strong sales from food and beverage business, it said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

Monde Nissin said preliminary figures showed that for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024, it booked record-high revenues for both the quarter and the full year.

“I am pleased to announce that our preliminary fourth quarter results reflect sustained momentum from the third quarter, driven by our APAC BFB [Asia-Pacific branded food and beverage] business. This has resulted in record-high revenues for both the quarter and the year,” said Monde Nissin chief executive Henry Soesanto.

The APAC BFB business saw revenue grow by over 8 percent year-on-year and more than 4 percent from the previous quarter.

The growth in branded food and bever-

across all categories, with contributions from both domestic and international markets.

Market share in noodles increased by 140 basis points to 68.7 percent in value and by 150 basis points to 74 percent in volume in the fourth quarter of 2024. Gross margin rose by over 100 basis points year-on-year in the fourth quarter.

The company’s meat alternative business is expected to experience a mid-teens percent sales decline year-on-year in the fourth quarter due to fewer selling weeks compared to last year

Despite these challenges, Monde Nissin expects positive consolidated net income after tax for the full year.

disposition of requests for COA’s written concurrence, filed by LGUs and/ or their officials in their official capacity, in the hiring of private lawyers, law firms or legal consultants.6

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 230, QUEZON CITY IN THE MATTER OF CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF EMILY BAGAGUNIO SORIANO Petitioner, - versus - SP CASE NO. R-QZN-24-10789-SP

CIVIL REGISTRAR OF QUEZON CITY, CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL & THE PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY, Respondents.

PH stocks, peso close higher amid talks between US, Russia to end Ukraine war

PHILIPPINE stocks closed higher Wednesday, rising for the second consecutive trading, at the start of talks between the US and Russia to end the war in Ukraine.

The 30-company PSE index gained 24.92 points, or 0.41 percent, to end at 6,119.88. The broader all-shares index declined 3.94 points, or 0.11 percent, to settle at 3,675.00.

The peso also advanced to finish at 58.08 against the US dollar Wednesday from 58.15 Tuesday.

Top Russian and US officials held talks in Saudi Arabia to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not in attendance.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the index also rose due to a possible 200-basis-point cut in large banks’ reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by April. This would lower the banks’ ratio of

deposits earmarked as standby funds to 5 percent from the current level of 7 percent, giving them more funds to lend to consumers and businesses, thereby boosting the economy.

The market showed mixed performance across different sectors.

The mining and oil sector rose 4.74 percent, followed by property, which increased 1.83 percent. Industrial stocks climbed by 1.16 percent, and holding firms rose by 0.98 percent.

Financials dropped 1.05 percent, and services fell by 0.47 percent.

Value turnover reached P4.81 billion, with 98 gainers, 89 decliners and 59 unchanged stocks.

The share price of food manufacturing giant Universal Robina Corp. surged 7.12 percent to P71.50. On the other hand, the stock price of Metropolitan Bank declined 3.31 percent to P71.55. Jennifer B. Austria

ORDER

This petition is filed by Emily Bagagunio Soriano, through counsel, praying for the correction of entries in the Certificate of Live Birth of Emily Bagagunio Soriano, specifically to correct the information supplied in item “Date of Birth” from “October 6, 1958” to “October 6, 1968” and the petitioner’s respective maiden name from “Bagugunio” to “Bagagunio”.

Finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, set this case for initial hearing on 1 April 2025, at 8:30 in the morning, before this Court, sitting at Room 707, 7th Floor, Hall of Justice Annex Building, Quezon City Hall Compound, Diliman, Quezon City, and all interested persons are hereby required to appear and show cause why the said petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in Metro Manila.

Let copies of this Order, together with copies of this petition with its annexes, be furnished the petitioner, the Solicitor General, the Quezon City Prosecutor, the Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly NSO), the Local Civil Registrar of Quezon City, the private respondent and all other persons who have or claim to have any interest that would be affected

NLEX allots P1.4b to ensure seamless toll transactions

By Darwin G. Amojelar

NLEX Corp., a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., said it is spending nearly P1.4 billion to ensure seamless toll transactions and boost customer experience across its expressway network. These developments will include the installation of automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras on all 315 toll lanes. Around 77 lanes have ALPR technology to capture license plate data from vehicles at barrierless plazas and track vehicles passing without RFID tags or with insufficient balance.

“Over the years, NLEX Corp. has shown its commitment to providing world-class service. By benchmarking its technologies against those used in other countries, we aim to provide greater accessibility and convenience to all motorists at NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector,” said NLEX Corp. officer-in-charge and chief finance officer MariaTheresa Wells.

Another vital program is the conversion of the remaining 127 RFID antennas to high-frequency antennas capable of reading RFID stickers more efficiently.

These antennas will increase the read range for RFID

and detect up to three vehicles in advance to promptly process toll lane transactions.

These upgrades aim to meet the critical requirements to enhance overall customer satisfaction, which includes achieving a 98 percent RFID readability rate, ensuring vehicle detection at toll lanes within one second for all classes, and providing accurate vehicle classification.

NLEX also invested in additional speed cameras to strengthen traffic law enforcement and complement these toll system enhancements, helping mitigate the dangers of speeding for the safety of motorists.

stickers

SMART PORT. Topline Hi Tech and Synergy Corp., an affiliate of Top Line Business Development Corp., signs a partnership agreement with the provincial government of Aklan on Feb. 18, 2025 to provide smart port system in Boracay for streamlined management and security. Attending the launch are (from left) Topline first vice president and chief financial officer Constance Marie Lim; Aklan provincial administrator Selwyn Ibaretta; Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores; Topline president and chief executive Eugene Erik Lim; senior vice president and chief operating officer Brigitte Carmel Lim; Bayani Cordova and Plaridel Solidum of Sanguniang Panlalawigan; and Topline Hi Tech board director Ferdinand Vargas.

BUSINESS

Clark Water Corp., an operating unit under Manila Water non-east zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures and a concessionaire of Clark Development Corp. (CDC), remains compliant with the standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for effluent, with the renewal of its wastewater discharge permit. Clark Water serves more than 1,000 locators in the Clark Freeport Zone, with 100-percent wastewater service coverage

Clark Water compliant with gov’t effluent standards

CLARK Water Corp., an operating unit under Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures and a concessionaire of Clark Development Corporation (CDC), said it remained compliant with the standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for effluent, with the renewal of its wastewater discharge permit.

This reaffirms Clark Water’s commitment to implementing sustainable water management practices and ensuring the protection of the environment and public health.

The Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) Sewage Treatment Facility, operated and maintained by Clark Water,

again passed the parameters cited in the DENR Administrative Orders No. 2016-08 (Water Quality Guidelines and General Effluent Standards) and No. 2021-19 (updated WQG and GES for Selected Parameters).

The issuance of the discharge permit is a testament that Clark Water values the importance of responsible wastewater treatment and management, contributing to the maintenance of cleaner waterways and a safer water system for the benefit of its stakeholders.

The accomplishment is a product of the collaboration of CDC and Clark Water to ensure proper treatment of wastewater before being discharged to its designated water bodies.

Gurīn Energy inaugurates 75-MW solar project in Palauig, Zambales

GURĪN Energy, a Singapore-headquartered renewable energy developer, owner and operator, announced the completion of its 75-megawatt (MW) solar plant in Zambales province, its first operational project in the Philippines.

Located in the municipality of Palauig, the 80-hectare Palauig Solar Power Plant installed 136,363 of the latest ground-mounted, energy-efficient solar photovoltaic panels.

The solar farm will produce enough clean and zero-emission electricity to avoid 53,100 metric tons of climatechanging emissions annually, or the equivalent of taking 11,500 combustion-engine cars off the road per year.

The project is owned by Shizen Inc, a fully-owned subsidiary of Gurīn Energy.

“The completion of the Palauig Solar Power Plant, our first operational project, is a milestone in Gurīn Energy’s drive to help move Asia to 100 percent renewable energy,” said

Bob Driscoll, chief operating officer at Gurīn Energy.

“Our achievement is reflective of the ongoing support we have received from the communities in Palauig, to whom we express our thanks. We are also grateful to our sole bank partner UnionBank of the Philippines who provided project financing for the plant, our partners including Aboitiz Power Corp., Radio Veritas and to the national, provincial and municipal authorities,” he said.

The company signed a partnership with AboitizPower’s retail electricity units Adventenergy Inc. and Adventpower Inc. for the offtake of the solar farm, ensuring a reliable and sustainable supply of clean energy to the latter’s commercial and industrial customers.

The company also unveiled the Cari Leviste Azores Visit Solar Education Program, an immersive field experience for public school students at the Palauig solar farm.

HIS RECENT accomplishments define his resume. Will his new job as chief of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) add to his deeds?

Newly-appointed DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon has impressed many after his several stints as a government official. Not many, though, may be aware of his role in one of the darkest periods in the Philippine economy—the COVID-19 epidemic that brought everything to a standstill.

Dizon was on the ground, working alongside government agencies and the private sector to ramp up testing and vaccination, and swiftly set up mega quarantine facilities.

In his role as president and chief executive officer of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Dizon turned New Clark City from blueprint to reality in just 18 months—in time for the Philippines’ hosting of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

The international airport in Clark during his stint with BCDA became a traveler’s dream terminal. Dizon did it in less than three years in the middle of the pandemic.

He has been in government service for the last 26 years, working both in the executive and legislative branches. Dizon was chief of staff of the late Senate President Edgardo J. Angara and served during the term of former President

Rodrigo Duterte.

The facility can treat 27 million liters of wastewater per day (MLD) and is allowed to discharge effluent to Dolores Creek through an underground pipe leading to the Mabalacat River.

Aside from regulatory compliance, Clark Water and CDC continue to implement improvements and upgrades in the facility as part of its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.

“We in Clark Water recognizes the crucial role of proper wastewater treatment and submission to environmental regulations in protecting the environment, preserving the ecosystem and safeguarding public health,” said Clark Water general manager Lyn Zamora.

THURSDAY,

extrastory2000@gmail.com

19.8-MW solar plant completed in Nueva Ecija

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MGEN Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen), a unit of Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), inaugurated its 19.8-megawatt (MWac) solar power plant in Barangay Pesa, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija on Tuesday.

The MGreen-Bongabon Solar is estimated to supply power to at least 20,000 households and establishments.

It is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 19,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year or equivalent to carbon sequestered of at least 211 tree seedlings grown for 10 years using the greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator.

“More than just a solar power plant, MGreen Bongabon Solar is about creating opportunities, reducing our carbon footprint, and setting a new standard for renewable energy initiatives in our country.” said MGreen president and chief executive Dennis Jordan.

This is the first project in the second Green Energy Auction (GEA-2) program for renewable energy of the Department of Energy (DOE) to be completed ahead of schedule—or at least six months before its original completion.

The new solar facility also supports the DOE’s goal of increasing the renewable energy share in the country’s power mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

It highlights MGEN’s commitment to accelerating the country’s clean energy transition and expanding its renewable energy portfolio.

MGEN aims to develop up to 1,500 MW of attributable renewable energy capacity by 2030. Its portfolio boasts a combined gross capacity of 2,602 MW from both traditional and renewable energy sources.

MGreen expects to add an additional 85.2 MWac of solar capacity to its growing portfolio in 2025. MGreen has a gross generating capacity of 612 MW of pure renewable energy to date. It looks forward to inaugurating a new solar plant in Cordon, Isabela and the expansion of an existing solar facility in Baras, Rizal—further strengthening its role in powering the country’s clean energy future.

Fixing the country’s transportation woes is his new job

Dizon also served as Presidential Adviser on Flagship Programs and Projects and president and CEO of the BCDA as part of the massive Build, Build, Build program, and Deputy Chief Implementer against the COVID-19 virus.

He received one of the highest civilian honors—the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Bayani. He is not new at taking the helm and his leadership and pro-active approach fit his job as transportation chief.

Transportation in the Philippines for decades has been a challenge, with aging infrastructure, delayed projects and inefficient routes that increase costs, limit mobility, and hold back economic progress.

Dizon faces the daunting task of transforming a transportation system long bogged down by bureaucracy and missed opportunities.

Among a circle of government officials and businessmen, Dizon is known for one thing— he gets things done—which made him a reliable go-to guy whenever something needed fixing or setting straight.

It’s no surprise then that a growing number of lawmakers are praising President Ferdinand Marcos’ appointment of the new Transportation chief.

Senators Grace Poe, Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada were the first to congratulate

—“—

The worsening traffic on EDSA, much-delayed rail projects... are just a few of the challenges.

both Dizon and President Marcos for the appointment.

Rep. Joey Salceda, one of the most respected economists in the country, knew first-hand how Dizon works.

“Vince is a long-time friend. We worked together on key issues during the COVID-19 pandemic and after. I have relied on his advice for many important policy decisions. He was also an important ally as I presided over the passage in Congress of the tax reform program.”

“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 CA (Commission on Appointments),” Salceda added.

Dizon has proven he can deliver results, but the challenges at DOTr are on an entirely different scale. The worsening traffic on EDSA, much-delayed rail projects and airports in need

of upgrades are just a few of the challenges. Can he push through much-needed reforms, fast-track projects and fix a transport system long plagued by inefficiencies?

The traffic in Metro Manila is a complex problem. The lack of mass transportation system and wide roads, and the continuous migration of workers from the provinces have created the perfect storm that is causing mayhem in the whole of the capital region.

Growing vehicle sales in the Philippines are further constricting the capacities of the roads in Metro Manila. Whether Dizon can deliver remains to be seen. Lasting progress will depend on the support and action of policymakers, industry leaders and the public.

President Marcos once said that traffic “is one of our biggest problems in this country.”

“Sadly, it’s been a part of every Filipino’s life, and the traffic in the Philippines is notorious all over the world,” Mr. Marcos said. “Metro Manila is congested. So part of the plan is to develop the neighboring provinces and cities.”

The new DOTr chief may already have an inkling on how to address the traffic mess and the transportation issues pending on his desk.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

spanning 254 kilometers of sewer network directed to a centralized wastewater treatment plant.

PALAUIG SOLAR FARM. Gurīn Energy, headquartered in Singapore, completes the 75-megawatt Palauig Solar Power Plant in Zambales on Feb. 14, 2025.

Cyber council formed to protect PH financial sector

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said it formed the Financial Cyber Resilience Governance Council (FCRGC) to boost collaboration across the financial sector to strengthen cyber resilience.

Launched on Feb. 11, 2025, the FCRGC aims to foster a safe, secure, and resilient financial system by promoting strong cybersecurity practices, governance and collaboration.

BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. cited the importance of strengthening cyber defenses in response to growing digital threats. “This council represents our collective resolve

3 PCC campuses tap green energy from ACEN RES

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ACEN RES, the retail electricity unit of the Ayala Group, signed up five facilities in all three campuses of the Philippine Cultural College (PCC) under the Retail Aggregation Program (RAP).

The Chinese-Filipino school is ACEN RES’ first customer to participate in the government initiative. PCC’s five facilities have nearly one megawatt of total power demand.

RAP is part of the government’s customer choice programs that provide customers the freedom to choose their electricity supplier and the option to switch to renewable energy sources. Under the RAP, multiple electricity consumers can aggregate their energy demand to breach the 500-kilowatt threshold needed to be able to source power directly from their preferred supplier.

“This partnership with Philippine Cultural College demonstrates ACEN RES’s commitment to making renewable energy accessible to more businesses and institutions across the country. Through programs like the RAP, we’re empowering customers with the power of choice and giving them greater control over their electricity usage. We fully support the government’s initiatives to promote competition and provide more options for electricity consumers,” said Tony Valdez, senior vice president for market transformation at ACEN.

to strengthen our cyber defenses,” he said.

Monetary Board Member Jose Querubin will serve as the council’s advisor. BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier and Sandeep Uppal, head of the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) Cyber Committee, will serve as chairperson and vice chairperson, respectively.

The council will implement the 2024-2029 Financial Services Cyber Resilience Plan (FSRCP), which BSP launched on Aug. 6, 2024. The plan outlines high-level goals and strategies to maintain the integrity and security of the country’s financial system.

“The role of the Council is clear: it is to lead the way by overseeing industry initiatives so we are on the right track in ensuring that we remain prepared to any threats that may arise,” said Fonacier.

BAP president Jose Teodoro Limcaoco said the council is “a symbol of our unity, of our shared commitment to protect the financial system and of our resolve to outpace and outmaneuver those who seek to undermine it.”

Council members include representatives from the Chamber of Thrift Banks, Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines, Philippine E-Money Association of the Philippines, BancNet and Philippine Clearing House Corp.

BankCom raises P18b from local bond offering

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ANK of Commerce (BankCom), an affiliate of San Miguel Corp., said Wednesday it raised P18 billion from the issuance of fixed-rate bonds.

The bank’s latest bond offering had warm reception from retail and institutional investors which enabled it achieve its largest peso bond offering to date. The dual-tranche fixed rate bonds due 2027 (Series C Bonds) and due 2030 (Series D Bonds) exceeded the minimum offer size of P5 billion by 3.6 times. As a result, the bank shortened public offer to three days.

“We appreciate the strong support of investors and are elated that one of our shortest peso bond offering has also become the largest in BankCom’s history. Their overwhelming response reflects their confidence in the bank’s strong fundamentals, and their preference for a clear and solid business strategy continues,” BankCom president Michelangelo Aguilar said in a statement to the stock exchange Wednesday.

BankCom raised P10.00685 billion in Series C Bonds which have a tenor of two years and a fixed interest rate of 6.1942 percent per annum and P7.99315 billion in Series D Bonds

New auto industry program to grant P9-b tax incentives

By Othel V. Campos

THE Revitalizing Automotive Competitiveness and Excellence (RACE) program will provide P9 billion in fiscal support to sustain the growth of the local automotive sector, particularly in the manufacturing of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, as the industry transitions to electric vehicles (EVs), according to documents from the Board of Investments.

The program aims to attract investments and strengthen local manufacturing through targeted financial incentives.

Under the RACE Program, accredited car manufacturers can receive up to P3 billion in fiscal support per company, aimed at covering capital expenditures for tooling and equipment necessary for producing new vehicle models.

DICT readies measures to prevent cybercriminals threat on elections

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said Wednesday it is implementing measures to protect the integrity of the 2025 electoral process.

DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy underscored the threat posed by cybercriminals.

“These cybercriminals are highly imaginative and creative. So every time the government takes action to stop them, they find new ways to evade the law and bypass the restrictions we put in place,” Uy said.

The DICT said with the mid-term elections approaching, one pressing concern is the proliferation of international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catchers, or devices that mimic legitimate telecommunication cell

sites to intercept communications and harvest sensitive data.

Uy also raised the alarm about a “carrot-and-stick” strategy employed by cybercriminals. The “carrot” method entices victims with promises of rewards, loans, or job opportunities, while the “stick” method involves fraudsters posing as government agencies to coerce individuals into clicking on malicious links.

These tactics are increasingly used to deceive voters and candidates, contributing to digital fraud.

Uy, the chair of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Advisory Council under Republic Act No. 9369, is leading efforts to protect the integrity of the elections. Darwin G. Amojelar

A key feature of the program is the fixed investment support (FIS), which allows participating car makers to receive up to 40 percent of their capital expenditures.

The subsidy will be released in three tranches based on production milestones. The first tranche will be distributed after the production of 1,000 units, while the second and third tranches will be credited upon reaching 10,000 units, respectively.

Fiscal support will be granted through the tax payment certificate (TPC) scheme, ensuring accountability and adherence to the program’s objectives.

Each participating manufacturer should commit to producing at least 100,000 units of a selected model within a specified timeframe.

The new model should be introduced to the market within two

years, with ongoing compliance monitored through regular audits.

The RACE program also aims to develop the Philippines into a regional automotive manufacturing hub, enhancing local automotive parts production while supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the supply chain, promoting research and development in sustainable automotive technology, and generating employment opportunities for Filipinos.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will lead the program’s implementation in coordination with the Board of Investments (BOI), the Department of Finance (DOF), and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), ensuring strict compliance with relevant laws, budgeting, and auditing regulations through a Joint Administrative Order (JAO).

with a tenor of 5.25 years and a fixed interest rate of 6.3494 percent per annum. Interest will be paid quarterly. The bonds were issued as the third tranche from the bank’s P50-billion bond shelf registration program. The bonds were listed on the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEx) Wednesday.

The bank said it would use the proceeds to manage its balance sheet, diversify funding sources and for general corporate purposes.

As of September 2024, BankCom recorded a net income of P2.2 billion, a 10-percent increase from P2 billion reported in the previous year on the back of strong growth in its core lending business.

Return on equity stood at 9.27 percent. Net interest income went up by 11 percent year-on-year on healthy growth across all lending segments.

The bank also saw growth on its service charges, fees, and commissions driven by revenues from its investment banking, credit card, and trust businesses.

IN BRIEF

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr. verifies his

The

was formed to boost collaboration across the financial sector to strengthen cyber resilience. PARE

(second

right) and

(fourth

FFCCCII holds

By Michael Wong Ho

medical mission in QC

THE Federation of Filipino-

Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), in collaboration with Jubilee Christian Academy, conducted a free medical mission at the Marina Barangay Multipurpose Hall in Quezon City on Feb. 9, 2025.

Led by FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro, the medical team consisted of 5 doctors and 10 dentists, along with social responsibility

committee director Hong Zhao Jian, vice director Chen Qing Lei and Xu Huan Dong.

They treated 800 patients, performed dental extractions for 92 individuals and distributed 313 pairs of reading glasses.

About 1,205 residents benefited from the medical mission.

FFCCCII’s social responsibility projects, including weekly free medical missions, aim to provide healthcare services to communities in need.

PH, China hospitals strengthen ties

CHINESE General Hospital and Medical Center and Shanghai Jiaotong University-affiliated Renji Hospital boosted their partnership, focusing on liver transplantation to enhance both medical services and training.

A pediatric liver transplant patient from CGHMC was scheduled for surgery at Renji Hospital in Shanghai on Feb. 11, 2025.

The child’s father volunteered as the liver donor and traveled with the medical team.

The surgery marks a significant step forward in China-Philippine medical cooperation, aimed at saving lives and helping patients.

In 2024, a CGHMC delegation, including Antonio Tan, Dr. Benito Goyokpin, Mr. Kelly Sia and Dr. Samuel Ang visited Shanghai for the first time.

They attended a medical exhibition

and toured Renji Hospital to learn about its advancements in liver transplantation.

Following the visit, Renji Hospital experts traveled to the Philippines for discussions on technical exchanges and clinical training.

A medical cooperation MOU was signed in 2024, formalizing the collaboration in liver transplantation, with a focus on physician training, technical exchanges and enhancing clinical practices.

The goal is to elevate liver transplant capabilities in the Philippines and provide local doctors with advanced training opportunities.

Renji Hospital, renowned for its expertise in pediatric liver transplants, has performed over 3,800 successful surgeries in recent years.

Chinese General Hospital covered the full cost of the surgery and treatment for the patient. Julie Ann Lope

Brilliant Taiwan unites cultures

By Julie Ann Lope

THE 2025 Lunar New Year Goodwill Mission Asia Tour, themed Brilliant Taiwan, was held at the University of Sto. Tomas Medicine Auditorium on Feb. 15, 2025.

Organized by Taiwan’s Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), Taiwan Association Inc. Philippines (TAP), UST Office of Public Affairs and produced by The Hu Music, it showcased a vibrant mix of Hakka, Taiwanese, Mandarin and Indigenous music, celebrating Taiwan’s cultural diversity and the Lunar New Year spirit.

OCAC Minister Chia Ching Hsu said the event “is designed to foster international friendship, strengthen

cultural ties between overseas compatriots and Taiwan, and rekindle the warmth and beauty of home in the hearts of our overseas compatriots.”

The event featured a diverse lineup of performances starring DJ David, Taiwanese Indigenous Golden Melody Award winner Sangpuy, renowned Hakka artist Ayugo Huang, rising vocal talent SiaoAi Xie and the masters of Taiwanese rock band The Chairman.

Miss International Taiwan 2019 Joyce Chiu served as the host.

Taiwan’s Representative to the Philippines Wallace Chow also attended the cultural event.

“Through the power of music, we hope you can feel the warmth and vitality of today’s gathering.” he said. Rev. Fr. Louie Coronel, SecretaryGeneral of UST said: “This event showcases the power of peopleto-people connections and the friendships that emerge when we unite through music and goodwill. Tonight, we celebrate the rich cultures and artistic expressions of both Filipino and Taiwanese communities.”

The UST Prime and UST Singers also showcased their talents on stage.

The show is part of a broader tour that includes stops in Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Hongnong Yang clan donates half a million pesos for education

HONGNONG Yang clan of the Philippines marked its 145th anniversary and induction of its 105th to 106th officers at the Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila on Feb. 9, 2025.

The donation aims to assist Filipino-Chinese students and honor teachers for their contributions to education.

The celebration was attended by principals, teachers and staff from

Newly elected chairman Yang Zhen Yan announced a P500,000 donation to the Association of ChineseFilipino Schools in the Philippines’ “Respect the Teachers and Respect the Disciples” scholarship project. Yang, who also serves as the secretary general of the Association of Chinese-Filipino Schools, expressed his commitment to supporting education.

Filipino-Chinese schools. The Yang clan, which founded the Lin Long Clan Association 145 years ago, has long been dedicated to promoting traditional Chinese culture and supporting Filipino-Chinese education.

Yang, a successful businessman, continues the family’s legacy of philanthropy in the field of education. Michael Wong Ho

Tzu Chi donates medical equipment to Albay hospital

TZU CHI Philippines, with the support of Bicol volunteers, donate hospital equipment to Ziga Memorial Hospital in Tabaco City, Albay on February 1, 2025.

The donation included 18 hospital beds, 16 wheelchairs, 12 commodes, and eight walkers to assist in patient care.

Ziga Memorial Hospital, which has been operating beyond its capacity, welcomed the donation to address the ongoing surge in patients.

Dr. Aires Perillo, the hospital’s chief, expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, noting the hospital has been operating at 200 percent of its capacity.

The equipment was delivered following a request from the

hospital to Tzu Chi, which acted quickly to fulfill the need.

Tzu Chi also shared the equipment to Pantao District Hospital and Manito Municipal Hospital in Bicol.

Representatives from the provincial government of Albay, led by acting Governor Baby Glenda Ong-Bongao, attended the turnover ceremony.

Ong-Bongao lauded Tzu Chi for its long-standing support of the province, especially in healthcare and disaster relief.

Tzu Chi Bicol commissioner Antonio Tan highlighted the foundation’s continued commitment to supporting medical institutions in the region, with a focus on improving patient care. Julie Ann Lope

Brilliant Taiwan was held at the University of Sto. Tomas Medicine Auditorium on Feb. 15, 2025.

The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. holds a medical mission at the Marina Barangay Multipurpose Hall in Quezon City on Feb. 9, 2025.

Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center and Renji Hospital boost their partnership, focusing on liver transplantation to enhance both medical services and training.

Tzu Chi Philippines donates hospital equipment including wheelchairs to Ziga Memorial Hospital in Tabaco City, Albay on Feb. 1, 2025.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

highest-grossing animated film

CHINESE blockbuster Ne Zha

2 has ousted Disney’s Inside Out 2 to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time, state media reported Tuesday, citing a domestic ticketing platform.

Ne Zha 2 has packed out cinemas in China, where it has already claimed the title of the country’s biggest boxoffice release since its release last month.

State news agency Xinhua, citing ticketing platform Maoyan, said on Tuesday that the fantasy epic had raked in more than 12.319 billion yuan (about $1.72 billion).

China’s ‘Ne Zha 2’ becomes Faith according to Medwin

That figure edged it past Inside Out 2, which took $1.7 billion following its release last year.

Ne Zha 2 tells the tale of a rebellious young deity who uses his powers to battle formidable foes after his village is destroyed. The film was released overseas this

month, sparking hopes among some Chinese that it would garner similar acclaim abroad.

President Xi Jinping has urged more confidence in traditional culture and aims to build China into a cultural powerhouse by 2035

The original Ne Zha became what was then China’s highest-grossing animated film after it was released in 2019.

But its sequel surpassed all former domestic box office record holders—including the 2019 sci-fi hit The Wandering Earth and 2021’s patriotic war film The Battle at Lake Changjin—in just nine days.

Drawing on the 16th-century novel Investiture of the Gods Ne Zha 2 has tapped into growing demand for products inspired by traditional Chinese stories and national pride in the country’s technological progress. AFP

Bong Revilla turns Facebook into VIP seat for Martin-Pops concert

SENATOR Ramon “Bong” Revilla

Jr. streamed the Always and Forever concert of Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez live on Facebook, allowing online viewers to watch the event for free.

Revilla and his wife, Representative Lani Mercado, attended the concert at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Friday. The senator broadcasted parts of the show on his social media page, drawing engagement from fans who were unable to attend in person. The Concert King later shared that

he was surprised when household members congratulated him on the concert, despite staying home. They told him they had watched it through Revilla’s Facebook Live.

Aside from the online audience, attendees at the venue also took photos with Revilla after the show. The senator accommodated fans before resuming his campaign activities.

Revilla, who remains in the top six of Pulse Asia’s latest senatorial survey, began his campaign in Ilocos before heading to Iloilo.

FOR many reasons, the band True Faith’s frontman, Medwin Marfil, is among the most inspiring artists one can think of and a pretty embodiment of the irony in Philippine showbiz.

At first glance, he may not be the stereotypical face of a hit band, yet his group is now hailed for its longevity, anchored on his leadership and vocal prowess.

Considering its foray into the mainstream, rather gentle pop music, True Faith, you would think, seems to be playing it safe to avoid walking on thin ice. Truth be told, he’s vocally political and very clear about which side he’s on. On the road to his gig in Orange County here on the West Coast late last year, we were mostly discussing not his musical choices but his political stance. And, well, in case you missed it, he decidedly became the Pinoy band scene’s poster boy for the LGBTQIA+ upon marrying Mark Angeles in San Francisco, California.

To some extent, I witnessed their chemistry in person amid the backdrop of dreamy America. What they have chosen to represent is something worth celebrating—unless you’re some unfair, judgmental person who can’t accept that true love knows no bounds.

So in our latest chat early this month, I asked Meds (the shortened name he prefers): What could be that key ingredient to why he consistently achieves the seemingly impossible and has been surprising the public with his ability to remain relevant—

in and outside the Philippines—after all these years?

He said he does one move: he perseveres, noting, “It’s cliché, but you gotta have faith.” Coming from him, it sounds very true. Meds is currently back in the Philippines for a series of shows with the rest of True Faith. They did one on the eve of Valentine’s Day at Hard Rock Café Conrad Manila and followed that up on Hearts’ Day Friday with a gig at Noctos Music Bar in South Triangle, Quezon City. Come Friday (Feb. 21), they will be entertaining the artist community at 12 Monkeys Bar in Pasig City, and then the next day, their hits-filled showcase goes to Hippodrome Bar & Lounge in Winford Manila.

“Kitakits tayo, friends. Take care and cheers, everyone,” he said, short and sweet, in one of his Facebook shoutouts.

Truly, Meds is one of the nicest individuals in the Philippine band scene, always trying his best to sound just like anyone else and never pushing too hard to be witty just for the sake of appearing cool or outspoken in a rockstar way.

Having said that, we can’t discount the fact that he and his band have more than enough hits to dwarf other Filipino recording artists acting

prima donna. Let’s enumerate some: “Alaala,” “Sa Puso Ko,” “Huwag Na Lang Kaya,” “Muntik Nang Maabot Ang Langit,” “Baliw,” “Kung OK Lang Sa’Yo,” “Kundi Rin Lang Ikaw,” and “Dahil Ikaw.” May we add one more called “Perfect.” It takes a certain kind of person to stay humble despite numerous achievements.

“Tuloy-tuloy lang kami as True Faith. I don’t see the need to put an end to the band’s run just because I’m already in the U.S.,” he assured. “Technology allows us to record without being in the same room, and I’m just a plane ride away if you think about it.” Meds has tightly embraced the cold weather of the Bay Area (where he resides with Mark) and California’s foliage. Sometimes, he misses the warmth of Metro Manila. Small wonder it’s something he felt excited about prior to flying back, where he intends to stay for a couple of months. He recently lost his father, Winnie, and partly he is honoring his memory by exercising the performer’s creed: the show must go on.

When he mentioned that he is digging further into sounds atypical of True Faith, I asked about the possibility of him doing solo records soon, separate from his household name and not disbanding affiliation. His reply: “That’s a good question.” Anything positive can happen for a Medwin Marfil. He has faith. That has always been true since we first heard his band singing just as perfectly as possible, using that very word, of course, “on a low-down Sunday afternoon.”

The True Faith frontman performing at Kusina Filipina in Cerritos, California late last year

’Ne Zha 2’ narrates the story of a rebellious young deity who wields his powers to vanquish formidable adversaries after his village is destroyed look

Bong Revilla and Lani Mercado (rightmost) show their support for Martin Nievera (left) at Pops-Martin concert

Medwin (right) with husband, Mark Angeles (left), whom he married May last year

Medwin (right) together with one-time True Faith guitarist Jay Valencia whose guitar work is prominently heard on the classic record ‘Kung OK Lang Sa’yo’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Gabbi Garcia prepares for ‘PBB’ after overcoming health struggles

By Jasper Valdez

ACTRESS Gabbi Garcia has established herself as a multifaceted artist in showbiz. She’s able to act, sing, and connect with audiences in ways that extend beyond the screen.

This year, she’s adding another title to her name. The 26-year-old has been named as a new host for the hit reality TV series Pinoy Big Brother (PBB).

But before she could take on this new role, Garcia had to focus on a different kind of challenge—her health.

In an interview with the press, the young star revealed that her health took a dive in 2024.

“Last year, I started having problems with my hormones. I had hormonal imbalances,” she said.

The diagnosis was a wake-up call for Gabbi, leading her to reassess her lifestyle.

“I really needed to work out, and I had to monitor what I ate. I had to take supplements. I had to watch my diet also,” she shared.

This renewed outlook on health stuck with Gabbi and became non-negotiable. After all, in an industry with long hours and unpredictable schedules, staying healthy meant keeping up.

“In the line of job, you always need to be healthy. Because the schedule is also very hectic. So for me, it’s not just about being sexy or losing weight. It’s really about being healthy. You need to be healthy,” she emphasized.

This strengthened commitment to a healthier lifestyle didn’t go unnoticed as Gabbi was recently launched as the newest endorser for Habit, a line of health supplements from Watsons Philippines.

“I started investing in my health last year, and the introduction of the Habit Health Supplement is a really perfect timing because it’s also a way

for me not just to advocate my healthy lifestyle to my family but also to everybody, my followers, my fans, so that they can also be encouraged to live a healthy lifestyle,” she said.

Now, Garcia is channeling that same discipline into her latest project.

Taking on a hosting role for PBB Celebrity Collab Edition comes with a different kind of pressure, but instead of being intimidated, she is eager to learn.

“I’m super excited. I’ve worked with Robi [Domingo] several times in different hosting gigs. Ate Bianca [Gonzalez], I know her also.

And I’m very much open to learning and taking notes from them. But also, I’m doing my research also,” she said.

Garcia is fully aware of the challenge ahead, but rather than going in blindly, she has sought guidance from some of the best in the industry.

“Tito Boy actually called me last night congratulating me. And let me know that we have to work on something once I get the materials from PBB. So we can start reviewing, we can start assessing where I am,” she said, referring to veteran talk show host Boy Abunda

While the expectations are high, Garcia isn’t letting nerves get in the way.

“Actually, no. It’s really normal. I’m super excited,” she said when asked whether she was feeling any pressure.

iACADEMY has announced the addition of Oliver Kirchhoff, a visual effects (VFX) artist with credits in major Hollywood productions, including Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame and Iron Man 3 Kirchhoff, who has worked in the 3D and VFX industry for 28 years, has contributed to films such as Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker and The Mandalorian. His career began in 3D CAD and simulation, collaborating with BMW, Siemens, and other multinational firms before shifting to the entertainment industry.

Raquel Perez-Wong, iACADEMY president and chief operating officer, said Kirchhoff’s expertise reinforces

the institution’s commitment to highquality education in animation, film, and multimedia arts.

Kirchhoff said he looks forward to mentoring students, drawing from his experience at the Animation Workshop in Denmark and leadership roles in VFX teams.

iACADEMY, which has campuses in Makati and Cebu, continues to expand its faculty with industry professionals in film, fashion, and design.

iACADEMY offers SHS and College programs centered on Computing, Business, and Design. As of this writing, iACADEMY has 2 campuses located in Makati and Cebu. For more information, visit www.iacademy.edu.ph

Skincare line tackles humidity, oily skin in the Philippines

By Jasper Valdez

Adding to the excitement, Macatangay also talked about QUICKFX’s Skin Trainer campaign, which helps consumers identify their skin goals through personalized skin analysis.

“We recognize that every person is on their skin fitness journey, just like health fitness. Our Skin Trainer campaign begins with analyzing each customer’s skin to identify concerns like sensitivity, sunspots, or acne,” she explained.

“From there, we recommend tailored regimens and aim to track their progress over time, adjusting routines as needed to help them achieve their skin goals.”

This campaign emphasizes QUICKFX’s commitment to personalized skincare and long-term skin health.

QUICKFX’s newest lineup is now available at Watsons and SM Beauty stores nationwide. QUICKFX

AS WE all know, the Philippines has intense humidity, making it challenging for many to find the right blend of products to achieve clear skin and a poreless glow.

Inspired by this struggle, QUICKFX has launched its latest line of skin care products designed with Pinoy skin in mind— the Vita Sun Drops and Pore Eraser collection.

Officially unveiled at the vibrant HOT & COLD SZN event at SM Mall of Asia Atrium, these products were formulated to meet the unique skincare needs of Pinoys.

“Vita Sun Drops effectively protects you from UV radiation. It protects from both UVB and UVA rays. It has, in one drop, skincare benefits and sun care benefits in one,” said Krisel Macatangay, Associate Business Unit Director for QUICKFX.

“It has special ingredients like sunflower oil, centella asiatica, and tea tree extracts that also moisturize, soothe, and brighten skin.”

This two-in-one serum, which is a first in the Philippines, offers SPF 50 PA++++ protection without being tacky or greasy, providing lasting coverage for those who are always on the go.

Meanwhile, the Pore Eraser line, which features a clay mask, toner, and moisturizing cream, delivers the sought-after “ice on skin” effect.

Infused with Canadian Glacial Clay and Water, it’s the ideal partner for battling common skin woes in our tropical setting, such as oily skin and pollution.

“Think of it as a magnet pulling out dirt and oil, then tightening and sealing your pores,” Macatangay said.

Actress-host Gabbi Garcia is named as the newest endorser for health supplements brand Habit

Bong Revilla and Lani Mercado (rightmost) show their support for Martin Nievera (left) at Pops-Martin concert

Visual artist Oliver Kirchhoff is known for his contributions to blockbuster films such as Marvel’s ‘Avengers: Endgame’ and ‘Iron Man 3’

iACADEMY, with campuses in Makati and Cebu, is actively expanding its faculty by bringing in industry professionals from film, fashion, and design

Finding joy in lifelong learning at Sunshine Place

IT IS never too late to learn something new at Sunshine Place, a senior hub where older adults find opportunities to explore new skills, meet like-minded individuals, and enrich their lives through a variety of creative and wellness activities.

The start of the year is an ideal time to try Tai Chi, chair dancing, porcelain painting, or advanced acrylic painting at this center under the Felicidad T. Sy Foundation.

Boosting health through Tai Chi Tai Chi, a traditional martial art, enhances meditation, balance, and well-being. This low-impact exercise strengthens muscles and improves flexibility without strain, making it popular among older adults.

Instructor Irene Chia emphasizes the class’s focus on health and healing. “Each student learns differently, so lessons are adjusted accordingly,” she says. Under her guidance, students explore styles such as Tai Chi 18 Movement Qigong, Tai Chi for Arthritis, and Yang-style forms.

A student in her 60s says Tai Chi has helped her arthritis and posture while

sharpening her mind. “Teacher Irene is patient and skilled, ensuring we learn movements correctly,” she says

Tai Chi classes with Chia are held every Saturday at 8:45 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Staying active with Chair Dancing

Chair dancing offers a seated fitness option for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. Using flowing movements to classic hits helps counteract stiffness from prolonged sitting.

Instructor Danny Vinculado says the class welcomes seniors in wheelchairs and walkers.

“We want them to feel they can still dance and have fun,” he says.

Participant Harvey Chua finds it beneficial for his Parkinson’s. “Dancing lifts my spirits and keeps my mind sharp,” he says. “It also helps with my stiffness and strength.”

Chair dancing classes are held on Tuesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Exploring creativity through porcelain painting

Painting transforms simple plates

By Joyce Pangco Pañares

cal illness plan offering coverage for over 150 medical conditions, including 77 major conditions, including cancer and organ failure, among others. Some think health insurance is too costly. Others feel medical emergencies happen only to other people. But in truth, the cost of critical illnesses is greater than that of any health insurance. Inflation for health care costs globally has been increasing at a rate of 10 percent year on year, but in the Philippines, it ranges from 13 to 15 percent annually, Villar said.

“HMOs give you coverage, and that’s great, but the coverage is only about P100,000 to P200,000 a year.

But if you suffer a stroke, hospital costs can reach P2 million. For a heart attack, that would be around P1.5 million. For cancer, about P1.7 million. HMO is great, but it is not enough,” he said.

“With AXA Health Max Elite, we’ve loaded up on what the usual offers of other insurance packages are,” Villar added.

AXA Health Max Elite goes beyond basic coverage by offering up to nine times the coverage of your plan, allowing multiple claims of up to 400 percent of the sum insured based on the sever-

into works of art through a meticulous hand-painting process. Suitable for beginners and experienced artists, the class allows participants to create heirloom-quality pieces.

Instructor Mee Lee Casey highlights its therapeutic benefits. “It’s soothing and relaxing, with no pres-

sure,” she says. Cynthia Heussaff, a regular golfer, discovered Ikebana and porcelain painting at Sunshine Place. “It’s a friendly environment where even those alone are welcomed,” she says.

Classes are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Refining artistic skills with Acrylic Painting Intermediate and Advanced Acrylic Painting classes, led by Maestro Fidel Sarmiento and assistant Robert Fernandez, provide guidance for students looking to refine techniques.

Vicky Pollisco finds painting a stress reliever. “It helps me focus after reviewing legal documents,” she says.

At 88, Erlinda Flores values the

class for its creativity. “My paintings are appreciated by my family, making me feel productive,” she says.

Dr. Elmo Lago, who painted independently before joining, says learning in a group is inspiring. “Everyone helps each other, which is why I keep coming back,” he says.

Sarmiento encourages students to use their imagination. “We don’t impose restrictions on what to paint. Besides the physical benefits, it improves mental health and social interaction,” he says Acrylic Painting classes are held every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Sunshine Place is located at 56 Jupiter Street, Barangay Bel Air, Makati, Metro Manila.

ity of the illness.

It also covers pre-early stage protection – a first in the industry – providing 10 percent of the sum insured for earlystage diagnoses such as benign tumors and suspected malignancies, enabling early intervention and better health outcomes.

“We want to reward good, proactive action so pre-early stage conditions may also be covered...In other words, before it becomes a critical illness, if it’s still in the pre-early stage, like a benign tumor, you can already claim. Of course, not the full amount, but a partial amount,” Villar said.

AXA Health Max Elite also features enhanced diagnosis benefits – allowing one to receive 100 percent of the sum insured for major conditions or 20 percent for minor conditions, with an additional 10 percent for life-saving surgeries or prolonged ICU stays, claimable twice over the policy’s lifetime.

Ongoing recovery support for critical illnesses that might potentially recur, such as cancer, heart attacks, and strokes, is also covered, allowing multiple major condition claims of up to four times and two minor condition claims.

“Filipinos work tirelessly to build a secure future for themselves and their loved ones. However, a single health crisis—whether an unexpected diagno-

AXA Philippines chief marketing officer Fernando Villar

Tai Chi offers a holistic approach to health, promoting calmness, focus, and vitality

In the classes, both instructors and students are generous in giving tips, sharing their knowledge

The program provides students with the opportunity to showcase their works in annual exhibitions at the Sunshine Place Don’t wait until you’re critically ill to get that health insurance