Manila Standard - 2025 March 20 - Thursday

Roque, Medialdea out of Duterte’s legal team

Transcribers

By Rachelle Tonelada

Rody's lead counsel vows 'strongest defense' in ICC case

By Rachelle Tonelada

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay

VBy Rio N. Araja

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity

ICE President Sara Duterte said the defense team of her father will now be all foreign lawyers accredited by the International Criminal Court and who are expected to give their full attention to her father's crimes against humanity of murder case.

Royina Garma. Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out. The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.

Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was

SENATOR Ronald dela Rosa said he is considering hiding from authorities rather than surrender to the International Criminal Court should it move to have him arrested as a co-conspirator in the crime against humanity case faced by former President Rodrigo Duterte. “If we do not see any justice here in our country, why would you surrender?” Dela Rosa said. “That (not surrendering) is part of the course of action that can be done.” Asked if he is also thinking about hiding from authorities, Dela Rosa said: “That's included. That's included in our courses of action.”

By Rachelle Tonelada

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

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

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

By Maricel V. Cruz

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

MALACAÑANG has urged Vice President Sara Duterte to come home and carry out her duties to Filipinos, and prove that there was no misuse of OVP confidential funds under her watch. In a Palace press briefing on

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said while the Vice President’s continued stay in the Netherlands, where her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte is detained, is understandable, she has to explain red flags raised over the use of OVP confidential funds.

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

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

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

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

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

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

AT LEAST 11 social media personalities and vloggers may face possible contempt—including former Communications Secretary Trixie CruzAngeles—if they continue to ignore summons of the House of Representatives Tri-Committee, Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez said. The TriComm will convene its third public hearing on

any exercise, we have to understand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audience, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said.

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

administrative charges have been filed against a police officer earlier charged with inciting to sedition for his social media posts in connection with the International Criminal Court's case against former President Rodrigo Duterte, the Quezon City Police District said Wednesday. In a press briefing held in Camp Karingal, QCPD

PAGASA

A WEB OF CRIME? House leaders Aurelio Gonzales

ONE WITH BARANGAY LEADERS. Speaker Martin Romualdez

OFWs told: Protest, but don't violate laws

By Vito Barcelo

PRO- AND anti-Duterte overseas Filipino workers were reminded to respect the laws and policies of their host countries when conducting protests or similar actions in order to prevent any legal violations and potential imprisonment, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac said.

Cacdac issued the call after a number of Filipinos in The Netherlands took part in public protests in front of the International Criminal Court in

Roque...

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Lead counsel and ICC-accredited lawyer Nicholas Kaufman said the defense team would be assembled within the week and that all necessary applications would be filed "in due course."

“He (Duterte) was completely denied all his rights in the Philippines. That would obviously be a major argument in the course of his defense,” Kaufman said in his first interview with the media at The Hague.

“I'm very confident of the strongest defense possible and I'm very confident that he will be acquitted indeed. Even at the earliest stage possible,” added the British-Israeli lawyer.

ICC:...

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transcription services in keeping with the operational needs of the Unit,” the job posting read.

“Mindful of the nature of the ICC’s mandate and operations, freelance transcribers must understand that the audio/video material outsourced for transcription may on occasion risk being of an upsetting or disturbing nature.”

Although the job opening was originally posted on the ICC’s website on January 28, 2025—more than a month before the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, a native Cebuano/Visayan speaker—it has sparked mixed reactions among Filipinos online.

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undecided, and 10 percent say they do not have enough information to form an opinion. Despite the strong presence of Duterte supporters on social media, the survey revealed a striking regional divide.

The Visayas, long considered a Duterte stronghold, recorded the highest percentage of respondents who believe he should be held accountable.

Mindanao, considered as Duterte's bailiwick, showed that 47 percent are in favor that Duterte must answer for the extrajudicial killings linked to his anti-drug campaign.

Stratbase Group President Dindo Manhit underscored the importance of the result, emphasizing that no one is indeed above the law.

“Accountability is the bedrock of any democratic society. No leader, regardless of position or influence, should be above the law. Holding government leaders accountable is not about political vendetta; it is about ensuring that justice prevails in our country,” Manhit said.

The survey, conducted from February 15 to 19, 2025, interviewed 1,800 respondents nationwide and has a ±2% margin of error.

In an OCTA Research survey last year, more than half of Filipinos said they are in favor of the Philippines rejoining the ICC.

The “Tugon ng Masa” survey showed that 59 percent agree it is time for the country to work with the ICC again as opposed to 41 percent who thought otherwise.

The same survey also found that 55 percent of Filipinos are in favor of the government cooperating with the ICC to investigate drug-related killings during the Duterte administration, against the 45 percent who disagreed.

Highest support was recorded in Balance Luzon (65 percent) and the lowest was in Mindanao (42 percent).

The Hague and elsewhere to support former President Rodrigo Duterte who is facing charges of crimes against humanity over his bloody war on drugs.

"OFWs have always been mindful of their role as good citizens and residents of the host country. They should be mindful in complying with the host country's laws," he said.

Demonstrations for and against Duterte's ICC arrest have sprung up

Before Duterte, Kaufman previously defended the likes of Maxime Jeoffroy Eli Mokom Gawaka, the alleged former National Coordinator of Operations of the AntiBalaka who was suspected of war crimes and crimes against humanity allegedly in various locations in the Central African Republic; Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, President and Commander-in-chief of the Movement for the Liberation of Congo; and Aisha Gaddafi, daughter of the late Libyan leader Muammar who also faced the ICC.

The Vice President said aside from Kaufman, another ICC-accredited lawyer is about to arrive at The Hague.

“I interviewed the person to join the team. Once the team for the ICC is organized, Atty. Medialdea will withdraw because the slots for

Bato:...

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He thanked Senate President Escudero for allowing him to stay in the Senate until all legal remedies are exhausted, but admitted he cannot stay at the Upper Chamber “forever.”

“I thank the Senate President that he's willing to protect me while I am still a Senator of this Republic. It shows that the Senate, as an institution, stands for what is right,” he said.

Dela Rosa was Duterte's national police chief who implemented the war

Tri-Comm...

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Fernandez, overall chairman of the committee, said the congressional probe seeks to hold individuals accountable for the spread of false and manipulative content online.

“Disinformation is a national security issue. It erodes public trust, destabilizes institutions, and manipulates democratic discourse. We cannot allow social media to become a free-for-all platform for deception and propaganda,” he said.

The Committees on Public Order and Safety, Information and Communications Technology, and Public Information earlier issued show-cause orders to individuals linked to the spread of misleading online content.

Despite multiple summonses, several failed to appear before the panel, prompting the committee to escalate legal measures, including the issuance of subpoenas to be served against the 11 vloggers.

Alongside Cruz-Angeles, a lawyer, those facing contempt citations are Aeron Peña, Allan Troy “Sass” Ro-

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The Palace spokesperson was referring to additional discoveries of fund disbursements by offices led by the Vice President to apparently fictitious individuals.

“If these (additional discoveries) were discovered, maybe the investigation regarding this should be intensified even more. Why? Because the people have the right to know where the money is really being spent, the public funds, the public treasury where it is being taken,” Castro told reporters in Filipino.

“[And] if this was discovered, it must also be proven because as of the moment, we will still say that there is a presumption of regularity regarding that. But, since this has been questioned, VP Sara needs to prove whether these receipts are true or not,” she added.

Castro’s statement came amid the fresh discovery by a House panel of more suspicious acknowledgment

in other countries, too.

In his 2016 landslide victory, Duterte took more than 70 percent of absentee ballots—only a small fraction of his total votes, but a testament to his popularity among his compatriots abroad.

"He understood the everyday life of overseas Filipinos," said Jean Franco, a political scientist at the University of Philippines Diliman.

lawyers are limited, and we want all the lawyers on board who have ICC experience,” she said.

The Vice President explained that Roque’s exclusion was to avoid complications, as his legal basis for staying in the Netherlands remains uncertain.

The priority, she said, was to have someone who can fully focus on the ICC case rather than on an asylum application.

Malacañang, for its part, renewed its call for Roque to return to the Philippines, especially now that he will no longer be part of the legal team of Duterte.

“He said he will not go home because he will represent his president. (But) maybe it would be better for him to first represent himself and defend himself before defend -

on drugs of the previous administration.

The ICC earlier identified nine of Duterte’s co-perpetrators in the arrest warrant served against the former President.

While the names of the nine were redacted, Dela Rosa's name was mentioned in the warrant.

Escudero earlier explained that protecting a fellow senator is not about defying the law but ensuring due process is followed.

Dela Rosa has publicly declared that he would seek “Senate protection” if an arrest warrant is issued.

gando Sasot, Elizabeth Joie Cruz, Dr. Ethel Pineda Garcia, Jeffrey Almendras Celiz, Krizette Laureta Chu, Lorraine Marie Tablang Badoy-Partosa, Mark Anthony Lopez, Mary Jean Quiambao Reyes, and Richard Tesoro Mata.

“Congress has the authority to summon individuals to testify on matters of public interest. Ignoring lawful orders is a direct challenge to our institution and the democratic principles we protect,” Fernandez said.

Meanwhile, Malacañang said the government is considering regulating social media posts, amid the spread of misinformation and disinformation in the wake of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest and surrender to the International Criminal Court.

In a briefing on Wednesday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said discussions are underway for the possible release of new guidelines for the measure.

She pointed out that even the Supreme Court has become a victim of fake news, following the circulation of social media posts falsely claiming that the high tribunal issued a temporary restraining order on Duterte’s arrest, and a non-existent petition seeking the res-

receipts submitted by the OVP to the Commission on Audit to justify its spending of P500 million in confidential and intelligence funds from December 2022 to September 2023.

The list of dubious names includes “Jay Kamote” and “Miggy Mango” whose surnames appear to be derived from food, House Deputy Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega V revealed on Sunday.

Five other recipients show funds were released to individuals named Dodong Alcala, Dodong Bina, Dodong Bunal, Dodong Darong, and Dodong S. Barok.

As this developed, Speaker Martin Romualdez said the House of Representatives prosecution panel is already prepared to conduct Duterte’s impeachment trial in June.

He said the prosecution panel has meticulously reviewed the evidence and legal arguments to ensure a solid and fact-based presentation before the Senate impeachment court.

"The House has done its part in transmitting the Articles of Im-

The former President framed his bloody campaign against drug dealers as a "gift" to overseas workers worried about the safety of their loved ones back home, according to Franco.

"He said, 'I can protect your children,'" she added. With AFP

During his term, Duterte doubled passport validity to 10 years and created the Department of Migrant Workers to streamline bureaucratic tasks.

ing someone else,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said Roque earlier claimed he was a victim of political persecution, accusing the House Quad Committee of investigating his alleged involvement in illegal POGOs with a “political motivation.”

Aside from the QuadComm arrest order, Roque is also facing a human trafficking complaint before the Department of Justice for his alleged involvement in Lucky South 99 Corporation, a POGO hub raided in Porac, Pampanga.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group filed the complaint in October 2024.

"It’s not in the law, but it is part of the Senate rules and based on institutional courtesy. It’s not meant to last forever, only until he is given enough time for his judicial remedies to be clarified or decided," Escudero said.

Former PNP chief Oscar Albayalde, for his part, said he is also preparing for a possible arrest warrant from the ICC.

“Let's just wait because that is just all speculation as of this time...Although we are preparing for that,” Albayalde said.

"We can exhaust all legal means. But at the end of the day, it is still the government's decision,” he added.

ignation of President Marcos.

“It's not just the government that will fix this. We all have to work together so that we can prevent, we can eliminate all fake news,” Castro said in Filipino.

Amid the proliferation of disinformation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the freedom of expression for civilians, including families of military personnel.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has not issued any guidance restricting the freedom of expression of civilians, including the families of military personnel on social media," AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement.

While reaffirming its dedication to transparency, the AFP encouraged responsible use of social media, urging citizens to engage critically with online content to help combat the spread of disinformation.

"The AFP upholds the right to freedom of expression for all citizens. We encourage responsible online engagement and critical evaluation of information to mitigate the spread of disinformation," Trinidad added.

peachment, and our prosecution panel is ready to present the case as soon as the impeachment court is convened," he said in a statement on Wednesday.

"We trust that the Senate will carry out its constitutional duty and proceed with the trial without unnecessary delays, in accordance with the rule of law," Romualdez added. He also commended Senate President Francis Escudero for the Upper Chamber's thorough preparations before the impending impeachment trial.

“The Senate has shown its commitment to upholding due process and ensuring a fair and impartial impeachment trial. I extend my deepest gratitude to Senate President Escudero and the entire Senate for their readiness and professionalism in handling this historic proceeding,” Romualdez said. His remark came a day after House Secretary General Reginald Velasco and other House officials inspected the Senate facilities designated for the House prosecution team.

THE Department of Budget and Management has approved the issuance of a PHP16.89 billion Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) covering the funding requirements for the increase in military personnel's subsistence allowance.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the release of funds in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to retroactively increase the daily subsistence allowance of officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. In a statement on Wednesday, Pangandaman thanked Marcos for his initiative to raise the subsistence allowance of AFP officers and personnel.

"This is a big help to the families of our soldiers. Imagine, it was in 2015, or a decade ago, when their allowance was last increased," she said.

"The adjustment of the subsistence allowance of our military personnel has been under study for a long time," she added.

Under Executive Order (EO) 84, signed on March 14, Mr. Marcos raised the daily subsistence allowance of all officers and enlisted personnel of the AFP from P150 to P350.

The P200 increase will be given retroactively beginning Jan. 1, 2025.

The increase will benefit the trainees and probationary 2nd lieutenants or ensigns undergoing military training, Citizen Military Training cadets on summer camp training and reserve officers, enlisted reservists undergoing training and assembly or mobilization test, Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit members, and cadets.

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unbecoming of a police officer stems from “any act [that] seriously compromises his character and standing in the PNP.”

The two cases of less grave neglect of duty stemmed from Fontillas' “[failure] to comply with any lawful order or instruction of a superior office” and “willful” violation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) guidelines on social media use.

The fifth administrative case for less grave neglect of duty against Fontillas was referred to the National Capital Region Police Office.

Buslig said Fontillas had been considered absent without official leave (AWOL) since March 6. This was despite Fontillas claiming in another Facebook post that he was on a leave of absence.

Buslig also said the Fontillas' firearm was recalled on Feb. 26 because he was supposed to be scheduled for a psychiatric examination but he did not show up.

The police officer has a history of disturbing behavior, which included having a short temper and mood swings as he underwent medication in 2023.

Buslig said their investigation confirmed that Fontillas was behind social media pages that "incited unrest and hurtful action against the government."

“Some of his posts were made while he was in police uniform, an outright violation of PNP regulations,” he added.

Comelec begins countdown to May polls IN BRIEF

Tingog hails gov’t e orts on repatriation

TINGOG Party-list commended the government’s efficient and collaborative repatriation of 187 Filipino human trafficking victims from Myanmar. This effort, led by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers, involved vital cooperation with Thai and Myanmar authorities.

The party-list, represented by Reps. Jude Acidre and Yedda Marie Romualdez emphasized that this ASEAN-wide action highlights the urgent need to combat the region’s increasing human trafficking crisis. They stressed that it serves as a stark reminder of the persistent danger trafficking poses to vulnerable people and communities.

Despite the successful repatriation, concern remains for the 62 Filipinos still held in Myanmar trafficking compounds. Tingog pointed out that this situation underscores the persistent nature of human trafficking, which targets marginalized individuals. They called for stronger preventive measures, increased law enforcement collaboration, and enhanced public awareness campaigns to protect citizens. Maricel V. Cruz

Cebu Paci c set

to build OFW center

CEBU Pacific (CEB) has announced a partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) to build an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Processing Center at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).

The facility aims to streamline the processing of key travel documents, such as Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs), for departing and returning OFWs at MCIA. Construction of the center in MCIA Terminal 2 is set to begin in March, with operations expected to commence before the end of the second quarter of 2025.

The DMW has expressed its full support for the initiative, reaffirming its commitment to providing OFWs with more accessible and efficient services. Joel E. Zurbano

DSWD hails poll spending exemption

DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian welcomed the decision of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to exempt key agency programs from the election spending ban, citing it ensures unhampered aid to poor and marginalized Filipinos.

In a memorandum issued by the Comelec on March 18, the poll body approved the request of the DSWD to exempt some of its social welfare programs from Section 261 (v)(2) of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).

This is the second time the DSWD’s request was granted by the COMELEC, following its earlier request to exempt 28 of its social welfare programs from the poll spending ban, which was also approved by the commission last January 8.

Gatchalian said the agency made the timely decision to extend a second request to ensure that the DSWD can provide much-needed aid to poor Filipino. Maricel V. Cruz

Comelec bares areas of concern list on May polls

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday released an initial list of 1,619 areas of concern for the May 12 midterm elections.

The list is divided into four categories—“red”, “orange”, “yellow”, and “green.”

Thirty-six areas are under the “red” category or areas with serious armed threats and history of election-related incidents, while 156 areas are under the “orange” category or areas with serious armed threats.

However, the number of “red” and “orange” areas so far are less than the recorded figure in January this year --177 “red” areas and 177 “orange” areas. Under the “red” category, 30 are in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) which include 20 towns in Lanao del Sur, nine in Maguindanao del Sur, and one in Basilan.

Other areas under the “red” category are one in Isabela, one in Masbate, two in Negros Oriental, one in Samar, and one in Lanao del Norte.

From 188 areas in January, there are now 194 areas under the “yellow” category or those with a history of electionrelated incidents.

Meanwhile, 1,256 areas are under the “green” category or those that are relatively peaceful and orderly, up from 1,239 areas in January.

Gov’t forms special committee to look into bridge collapse

By Charles Dantes

Aspecial committee has been formed to investigate the collapse of the Sta. Maria Cabagan Bridge in Isabela, Malacañang announced Wednesday.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said that Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan confirmed the committee’s creation, with findings anticipated by April 25.

In Special Order No. 35, series of 2025 dated March 17 and made public Wednesday, Bonoan said

the committee would be headed by Undersecretary Anne Sharlyne Lapuz and Undersecretary Eric Ayapana, as chairperson and cochairperson, respectively.

Named members of the committee are Assistant Secretary Michael Villafranca, Director Alex Bote of the Planning Service, and Director Gliricidia Tumaliuan-Ali of the Legal Service.

Meta suspends SMNI’s social media pages

By Ram Superable

META Platforms Inc. suspended the Facebook pages of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) and its affiliates for allegedly promoting hate and harmful racial stereotypes.

The affected pages include SMNI Integrated News and DZAR 1026, both linked to the controversial network owned by televangelist Apollo Quiboloy.

“If this is the price for speaking the truth, then so be it. SMNI will always speak the truth that matters,” SMNI said through Pulso ng Bayan, its public affairs program.

Meta cited violations of its community standards, which prohibit content that promotes hatred, violence, or harmful stereotypes.

The network has previously been criticized for spreading misinformation and red-tagging critics of the Philippine government.

SMNI is also known for its strong ties to former President Rodrigo

Duterte, who has publicly defended Quiboloy.

The station also regularly hosts Duterte allies, including Senator Ronald dela Rosa and former National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict spokesperson Lorraine Badoy.

Dela Rosa questioned Meta’s decision, expressing concern over what he called censorship against pro-administration voices. “Pilipinas, where do we go from here?” he posed.

Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has ramped up efforts to combat misinformation and hate speech across its platforms.

The company has previously suspended pages connected to other controversial figures and organizations for similar violations.

In 2023, Meta removed Quiboloy’s personal Facebook page following U.S. sanctions against him for alleged human rights abuses. SMNI’s YouTube channel and TikTok account were also taken down around the same time.

“To ensure an impartial investigation with the aim of determining the material and attendant circumstances surrounding the subject incident, the Committee is hereby empowered to (a) gather, collate and consolidate all pieces of evidence, (b) compel the attendance of DPWH employees knowledgeable of any circumstance in relation to the Bridge, (c) constitute a Composite Team, Technical Working Group and Secretariat to assist the Committee; (d) authorize the TWG to conduct interviews and/or ocular inspections with corresponding reports thereon, and (e) all other powers in connection and necessary to attain the purposes of this Order,” it added.

The committee was also ordered to prepare an investigation plan with a corresponding timeline to be presented to the Office of the Secretary within three days from the issuance of the directive. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his visit to Isabela on March 5, said the portion of the bridge may have collapsed due to design flaws. On the evening of Feb. 27, the third span from the Cabagan side of the bridge collapsed after a dump truck loaded with boulders passed.

“We will monitor for updates, but the latest report is expected by April 25,” Castro said.

Manibela threatens three-day transport strike starting Monday

By Rio N. Araja

TRANSPORT group Manibela on Wednesday threatened to stage a three-day transport strike starting Monday.

In a statement, the group maintained its strong objection to the Public Transport Modernization Program, citing supposed inaccurate jeepney consolidation figures.

The group, however, clarified it is not against jeepney modernization, but asserted that nobody must be left behind. The group vowed to pursue more transport strikes should the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board continue to ignore its plea.

Saying the government must not introduce foreign-made modern jeepneys, the group said some talented local manufacturers could produce more efficient public

utility vehicles. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has acknowledged the right of transport group Manibela to express their concerns, while simultaneously urging them to engage in dialogue instead of proceeding with a planned strike. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has directed Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Non-Infrastructure Dioscoro Reyes to initiate immediate discussions with the concerned transport groups. The DOTr expressed hope that Manibela would opt for a sit-down meeting to collaboratively address their grievances, ensuring both commuter safety and the welfare of drivers and operators. The department emphasized its commitment to working together to improve the Public Transportation Modernization Program (PTMP).

Residents of San Mateo, Rizal traverse a wooden bridge to walk to their chores

in the morning. The bridge links Quezon City and San Mateo. Edd Castro

‘SAVE OUR SEA.’ Members of Akbayan stage protest actions in front of the Chinese Consular O ce, calling for a stop to the destruction of marine resources by Chinese vessels in the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Danny Pata

NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Don Artes and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora signed a memorandum of agreement and led the groundbreaking of a neighborhood upgrading project along the San Juan River Easement in San Juan City. Manny Palmero

THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025

IN BRIEF

Manila gov’t spent P17m in death aids last year

THE Manila government extended monetary death assistance to over 5,900 families under the watch of Mayor Honey Lacuna.

Lacuna said the city government provided P3,000 in financial death assistance for Manilans through the “Tulong Para sa Naulila” program.

Last year alone, the local government disbursed a total of P17.7 million in cash aids for families who lost a loved one.

Lacuna said that while the financial help might not be enough, it was her administration’s “small way of showing sympathy for Manilans who lose loved ones and make them feel that they are not alone in their time of bereavement.” Itchie Cabayan

Navotas seniors aged 80-95 get P10k ayuda

SENIOR citizens of Navotas City

aged 80, 85, 90, and 95 have received P10,000-cash incentives under the Expanded Centenarians Act.

An initial batch of 53 elderlies who reached these milestone ages between March 17 and December 2024, also benefitted from free medical check-ups, medicines, and basic laboratory tests.

Citing records from the National Commission of Senior Citizens, Navotas Rep. Tobias Tiangco their city was the first local government unit in Metro Manila to give away such incentives.

Tiangco, co-author of the Expanded Centenarian Acts, emphasized the importance of honoring senior citizens.

“The initiative is more than just financial aid,” he said. Maricel V. Cruz

AFP: Grounded FA-50 jets no cause for alarm

GROUNDING of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) fighter jets does not affect the country’s maritime domain awareness (MDA) capabilities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a senior naval officer said on Tuesday.

“The MDA capability of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) has different components. One of these components is the air component composed of different aircraft to include the FA-50. The FA-50 is not the major contributor for our MDA although they form a part of the overall picture,” Philippine Navy spokesman for the WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said in a media briefing.

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) grounded its remaining 11 FA-50PH fighter jets on March 5, following the crash of a similar aircraft during a nighttime tactical operation in Bukidnon.

“Their grounding does not affect the requirements of the AFP for MDA (as) this will be covered up by the other capabilities that we have,” Trinidad said. Rex Espiritu

Remulla: Malaysia uncooperative on Alice Guo’s case

By Pot Chavez

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday revealed that Malaysia refused to disclose the whereabouts of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo last year.

Earlier reports stated that most likely, Guo travelled either by boat or a private plane to Malaysia before proceeding to other countries.

“The case of Alice Guo is a very peculiar case because Malaysia refused to cooperate with us. Malaysia is supposed to give us the information. They know what flight entered, what aircraft entered, where she was riding but she refused to give it to us,” said Remulla. He expressed confidence that the Senator Risa Hontiveros would understand the dilemma of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) pertaining to Guo’s case. Hontiveros, chair of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights, is asking for explanations about Guo’s escape to Malaysia. The committee is conducting hearings on Guo’s alleged involvement in criminal activities of the banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country.

Masungi contractor takes eviction order to Palace

By Rio N. Araja

THE Masungi Georeserve Foundation on Wednesday appealed to President Marcos to intervene in the eviction of its contractor, as well as review and halt the 15-day eviction notice from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“Masungi stands as a beacon of conservation success in the Philippines, proving that public-private partnerships can restore degraded landscapes and protect our natural heritage. With the President’s leadership, we believe a fair and transparent solution will be reached for the benefit of all Filipinos,” the foundation said in a statement.

The foundation lamented that the DENR order evicting the Blue Star Con-

struction and Development Corp. threatens not only years of dedicated forest restoration, wildlife protection and sustainable geotourism, but also the livelihoods of 100 rangers and their families who have committed their lives to protecting Masungi.

“This eviction order weakens the very safeguards designed to protect Masungi’s lands. Any precipitous action to enforce the same, and even just the threat of it, can

only embolden entities who have boldly asserted illegal claims in Lot 10 that Blue Star has assiduously resisted through the years to ensure,” the statement read.

Blue Star was tasked to undertake the construction of 5,000 housing units for government workers in a 300-hectare forest area within the Masungi georeserve.

The foundation urged the government to review the DENR’s eviction order “to allow for a fair and thorough review, and engage in open dialogue with all stakeholders to find a just and sustainable path forward.”

DENR scrapped its 2002 supplemental agreement with Blue Star for alleged issues on legality and failure to execute terms within the contract.

Blue Star acknowledged receipt of the DENR’s notice on the cancellation of the 2002 supplemental joint venture agreement, which played a significant role in the establishment of the Masungi georeserve.

By Maricel V. Cruz

SENATORIAL candidate and Makati

Mayor Abigail Binay has emphasized the importance of strengthening early childhood education, citing Makati’s innovative daycare program which she said was key to the exemplary performance of its public school students in the recent National Achievement Test (NAT).

“Our program (in daycare) is good because that is what we say is our secret why our scores are high in the National Achievement Test,” Binay said in Filipino. She said the children’s education starts in the kindergarten, daycare, or pre-kinder levels, thus when the children reach Grade 3, they are already good in reading and literacy.

Binay made the pitch as she visited Quezon province where she met with local government officials and leaders in the cities of Tayabas and Lucena. Binay made her first stop at the New

Tayabas City Hall, where she met with Mayor Maria Lourdes Reynoso-Pontioso and other local officials and employees.

Citing a Department of Education report, Binay said Makati’s public schools surpassed regional and national average scores across all assessment areas and subjects in the 2023-2024 National Achievement Test (NAT) administered to Grade 6 students.

During the Ugnayan sa Barangay in Lakawan, Tayabas, Binay reiterated her advocacy for providing free maintenance medicines, especially for senior citizens, which she intends to pursue at the Senate. Binay was also given a tour of the historic Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, a cherished landmark of the city. In Lucena City, Binay met with Mayor Mark Don Alcala and Vice Mayor Roderick Alcala at the city hall where they discussed Makati’s digital initiatives.

By Vito Barcelo

THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said it will create a program to train household workers, factory staff, and victims of human trafficking to help them transition into the caregiving industry where they can earn significant incomes.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac made the announcement in recognition of the significant contributions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), especially women in the caregiving economy who are globally acknowledged for their services.

“We want to harness this very strong potential that is very innate among us Filipinos and we know for sure that the carers whether formal or informal are women, so it is appropriate that we are doing this during the Women’s Month,” Cacdac said. He said the women’s skills can easily be transformed into caring roles and they are quite adaptable and accessible.

“Additionally, individuals affected by trafficking, regardless of gender, can also be shifted into care work,” Cacdac said.

Undersecretary for Policy and International Cooperation, lawyer Patricia Yvonne Caunan, cited data from the World Health Organization (WHO) showing around 10 million vacancies in the care economy are needed internationally by year 2030.

“Filipinos are recognized as the leaders in the care economy, especially when it comes to providing care. Women often fill the roles of caregivers, nurses, and nursing assistants. This illustrates the impact of women trailblazers who are essential to the care economy, not only in the Philippines but across the globe,” Caunan said.

Meanwhile, the DMW warned prospective OFWs against the proliferation of scammers in social media offering fake TESDA certificates used as a requirement for work abroad.

TURNOVER CEREMONY. Commission on Elections chairman George Erwin Garcia and United Nations Development Programme resident representative Selva Ramachandran preside at a turnover ceremony of information and communications technology equipment, witnessed by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya. The gadgets will be used to promote voter awareness on computerized electoral processes. Norman Cruz

NEW NOVELETA TOWN HALL. A four-storey newly constructed municipal hall for Noveleta, Cavite was formally inaugurated with Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. and Cavite Rep. Jolo Revilla III as guests of honor. Dennis Abrina

PRICE CHECK. Officials of Valenzuela City’s Surveillance and Monitoring Division and the Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau of the Department of Trade and Industry conduct a random price check on rice being sold at the Marulas public market. Andrew Rabulan

OPINION

THIS is war, between the forces of the administration huddled under the leadership of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. versus those who are loyal to the ailing and imprisoned patriarch of the House of Duterte.

It is rather lopsided. In modern warfare, he who has the resources, namely, materiel and manpower gets the upper hand, quite difficult to engage. Out of power, the Davao forces can rely on limited resources, and its base of strength where enraged supporters are legion is quite far from the center of power.

Worse, the highly revered patriarch is in a faraway country, alone in a small cell amid a dark and damp environment, where his aging bones are unaccustomed to cold. The combination of solitude and harsh environs would be harsh on the health of the patriarch.

Like HBO’s blockbuster Game of Thrones, set in medieval times where feudalism was the rule, characters are eerily similar War

the killing of innocents during the latter’s war against drugs and crime.

Like HBO’s blockbuster Game of Thrones, set in medieval times where feudalism was the rule, characters are eerily similar.

—“—

The masses are angry. Spontaneously, here and in the countries of their diaspora, they have rallied in anger at the manner by which their beloved leader was treated by a supposed political ally who flouted sovereignty for immediate gain --- getting physically rid of its greatest enemy.

This war will be fought across many battles over several fronts. Some of the forthcoming battles have predictable timelines and theaters of war. Some we have yet to divine.

On the propaganda front, the patriarch’s loyalists decry injustice and the surrender of national sovereignty, while the administration and its allies keep recalling the human rights violations and

The setting as well, for while the country is supposedly a democracy in form, that provides little substance for an impoverished population governed not by a genuine rule of law, but by the manipulative actions of entrenched political dynasties fueled in their ambition by oligarchs who control its economy.

Though centuries apart, the feudal system lives on in the benighted land.

This writer has been wondering who the resident “Rasputin” in the palace is.

The initial battle in hot Villamor and the flight to cold Scheveningen points to a former trusted general who was in the “privy” council of the imprisoned patriarch and now has the younger leader’s ear. Lanister in the Game of Thrones he plays in today’s war of the clans.

The Department of ‘Importation’

AFTER the tumultuous political events of last week which is still being played out, maybe we should shift our focus on more mundane things like the costs of the food we eat and the government agency that is supposed to be providing the public with affordable food, the Department of Agriculture.

There has not been any poll taken as far as I know on how the public thinks about the DA but maybe the recent pronouncement of the Ombudsman about the DA and the NFA being the most corrupt agencies of the land could be taken as an indication.

Sure there are other corrupt agencies but for the Ombudsman who does not normally go about making accusations to specifically single out these two agencies, the accusation is very telling. Where in the world could we find onions or tomatoes costing up to P650 and P450 a kilo respectively?

The prices have nothing to do with the law of supply and demand but because of syndicates perhaps with the most likely connivance of some DA officials, the prices cannot be brought down so easily. What other explanation could there be?

This goes with the prices of other food commodities such as rice, meat, fish and other foodstuffs. All it takes is a rumor or a fore -

cast by a DA official in an interview and before we know the unit price of a food item suddenly goes up.

PBBM since the beginning of the year has started to replace some members of his Cabinet but he should also consider abolishing some agencies or at the very least downsize them to the barest minimum to save money.

Over the years some agencies have become white elephants draining valuable limited government resources

Over the years some agencies have become white elephants draining valuable limited government resources.

Perhaps, it is time to emulate the United States and drastically reduce our bloated bureaucracy. But we should do it minus the chaos by planning it thoroughly to avoid the mistakes being committed by the US Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE.

That way, our national budget will only be equivalent to what we earn and not have to borrow year

EDITORIAL

More skeletons in Sara’s closet

IT’S all coming out now.

The House of Representatives has unearthed yet another treasure trove of evidence showing that the Office of the Vice President has diverted confidential funds—apparently into private pockets?— by using various fictitious names in supposedly official receipts. Imagine the scene at the OVP where the staff, presumably including even the highest officials, take turns in coming up with the most ludicrous names they could think of, all the while guffawing loudly and exchanging high fives every time they came up with the most original ones.

According to House Deputy Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Paolo C. Ortega V, in sifting the receipts submitted by the OVP, they found such questionable names as ‘Jay Kamote,’ ‘Miggy Mango’ and five ‘Dodongs’: Dodong Alcala, Dodong Bina, Dodong Bunal, Dodong Darong, and Dodong S. Barok.

Earlier, Ortega bared names derived from chip brands and cellphones: ‘Mary Grace Piattos,’ ‘Pia

in and year out to finance huge budget deficits which in 2024 alone was equivalent to 5.7 per cent of our GDP. No government can sustain that kind of borrowing.

The question now is which of the agencies should be abolished or downsized. I am sure there are many candidates but one of them should be the Department of Agriculture which is now become the biggest joke in town.

One media outlet even referred to it as Department of Importation, a fitting description because that seems to be the only solution the DA can think of to bring down sky rocketing food prices. But even that is not working because food prices remain stubbornly

Piatos-Lim,’ ‘Renan Piatos’ and ‘Xiaome Ocho,’ among others. The lawmaker said all these names have no birth, marriage, or death records at the Philippine Statistics Authority.

By now, the OVP should be preparing to answer the issues raised by Congress on their alleged misuse of confidential and intelligence funds

Citing the PSA, Ortega said 670 of the 1,992 names had a “most likely match” in PSA records; 1,322 individuals had no birth records; 1,456 had no marriage records (with only 536 possible matches); and 1,593 had no death records (with just 399 possible matches).

“What kind of payroll is this? Imaginary? We cannot determine if these people are real individuals who received money from the CIF (confidential and intelligence funds),” he added.

high. If that is the only solution it can think of, then it is better to abolish it to save hundreds of billions of pesos.

Food importation can be done even without a DA and the P200B DA budget can be used elsewhere where it is more needed.

Never in our history have we imported as much and as many as we are doing today. It used to be just rice but now includes fish. I never imagined that the day will come when we will be importing fish considering that the country is surrounded by oceans and seas.

Yet, the DA cannot do anything about the problem except to import. A good example of the state of

Recall that in December 2024, the House committee on good government and public accountability submitted the names of 1,992 individuals linked to the alleged misuse of the OVP’s confidential funds.

Panel chair Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua said 405 of the 667 names found on the acknowledgment receipts for the confidential funds of the Department of Education under Duterte had no record with the PSA. What do we make of all this? Did the OVP think that the officials and staff of the Commission on Audit (COA) would be so dense or stupid that they would simply believe what is being foisted on them as official receipts signed with wildly outrageous names?

Or perhaps the OVP thought they could pull a fast one on state auditors simply because confidential funds should not be subject to government audit since they are by their very nature secret funds. By now, the OVP should be preparing to answer the issues raised by Congress on their alleged misuse of confidential and intelligence funds before the Senate impeachment court starts its hearings in July.

affairs within the DA is to come to Baguio to see what has become of the land belonging to the DA which is called the Bureau of Plants Industry.

It’s a large track of real estate right in the City center and therefore expensive. It’s now gone. Enterprising DA employees were able to title a large portion of the land to themselves.

The best part which used to be all gardens and plants where school children used to visit to learn about gardening is now full of unplanned government offices while some must be private residences disguised as offices. The sight is so pathetic that left me completely agreeing with the Ombudsman’s observation about the DA.

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in a horizontal format looking like a punch cartoon from the 1800s but in color. There is a brawl of rabid dogs in human bodies. They are all leashed and tied to one strong demonic arm labeled “Troll Farms.”

IN BRIEF

Taiwan’s war games to mock China attack

TAIPEI—Taiwanese troops will simulate possible scenarios for a Chinese invasion in 2027 during the island’s annual war games, the defenSe ministry said Wednesday, as Beijing maintains military pressure on Taipei.

China insists self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and has threatened to seize the island by force.

Officials in the United States— Taipei’s main backer and biggest arms supplier—have previously cited 2027 as a possible timeline for a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

Taiwan’s “Han Kuang” exercises, which the ministry said would be held from July 9-18, are conducted every year across Taiwan to simulate defending the island against Chinese attacks.

In a report submitted to parliament on Wednesday, the ministry said this year’s scenarios would be based on China’s “grey-zone” intrusions and “possible actions of the Chinese Communist military’s invasion of Taiwan in 2027.” AFP Texas nabs midwife’s aide accused of illegal abortions

HOUSTON—A second person was arrested for assisting a Texas midwife accused of providing illegal abortions in violation of the southern US state’s near-total ban on the procedure, an official said.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Monday that a 48-year-old midwife, Maria Margarita Rojas, was arrested for providing illegal abortions and illegally operating a network of clinics in the Houston area.

Her arrest on the second-degree felony charge—as well as for practicing medicine without a license— marked the first time authorities had filed criminal charges under Texas’s laws. Paxton’s office issued another statement Tuesday saying that Jose Cendan Ley, a 29-year-old medical assistant, was also arrested.

The Cuban national had allegedly assisted Rojas “in providing at least one illegal abortion.”

“I will continue to fight to protect life and work to ensure that anyone guilty of violating our state’s pro-life laws is held accountable,” Paxton said in his statement. AFP

Turkey police detain Istanbul mayor

ISTANBUL—Turkish police raided the home of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on Wednesday, detaining him over a corruption probe in a move denounced by the main opposition CHP party as a “coup”.

A popular and powerful figure within the CHP, Imamoglu is President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main political rival, and his detention came days before he was to be named the party’s candidate for the 2028 presidential election.

Widely seen as the strongest candidate to challenge Erdogan, Imamoglu’s career has been overshadowed by a string of what critics say are politically motivated legal cases.

The police raid occurred just hours after Istanbul University revoked his degree, amid claims it was falsely obtained.

The revocation is a high-stakes move as presidential candidates in Turkey need to have a higher education qualification. AFP

Zelenskyy accuses Russia of rejecting ceasefire

KYIV—Ukraine on Wednesday accused Russia of effectively rejecting a US-backed ceasefire proposal, reporting a barrage of strikes on civilian infrastructure hours after Moscow agreed to temporarily pause attacks on energy facilities.

Washington has been pushing an immediate 30-day ceasefire as a first step towards ending the grinding threeyear-old war.

But in a 90-minute call with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, Russian leader Vladimir Putin insisted a comprehensive deal would be contingent on the West halting all military aid and intelligence to Ukraine.

While the highly anticipated PutinTrump call did not secure the breakthrough ceasefire endorsed by Ukraine last week, it did result in a scaled-back

commitment to halt attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days.

In Berlin, Germany accused Putin of “playing a game” after Kyiv reported Russian strikes on Ukranian civilian infrastructure hours after Moscow agreed to temporarily pause attacks on energy facilities.

“We’ve seen that attacks on civilian infrastructure have not eased at all in the first night after this supposedly ground-breaking, great phone call” between Putin and US President Donald Trump, German Defense Minister Bo-

ris Pistorius said in a TV interview.

“Putin is playing a game.”

“The American president has a responsibility for one of the great nations of the world. And I am very sure that there will come a time when he will have to react,” Pistorius added.

In the 90-minute call with Trump on Tuesday, Putin agreed to a scaled-back commitment to halt attacks on energy infrastructure for 30 days, but refused a full ceasefire in its three-year war with Ukraine.

According to the Kremlin, Putin has already ordered his military to pause strikes against Ukraine’s power grid for 30 days.

Russia and Ukraine will also exchange 175 prisoners each on Wednesday “as a goodwill gesture”, with further talks to take place immediately in the Middle East. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC—Donald Trump’s rumbling conflict with the judiciary burst into open confrontation on Tuesday as Supreme Court Justice John Roberts issued a rare public rebuke of a US president over his call for the impeachment of a federal judge.

PUTIN’S PEACE CONDITION ‘UNACCEPTABLE.’

This combination of pictures created on Feb. 19, 2025 shows, (from left) Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Feb. 19, 2025 and US President Donald Trump in Palm Beach, Florida, on Feb. 18, 2025 (same real time). Trump called Zelenskyy a ‘dictator without elections’ as he stepped up up

INTENSE STRIKES. Israelis take part in protest calling for the end of the war and the release of the remaining hostages held captive in Gaza since the Oct. 7. 2023 attacks by Palestinian militants, at Hostages’ square in Tel Aviv, on Tuesday. Israel vowed to keep up its renewed bombing of Gaza, warning that a wave of intense air strikes that

Rocked by Trump, EU seeks to begin boosting defense

BRUSSELS—The EU on Wednesday will look to fire the starting pistol on plans to help member states bolster their defences, as Europe grapples with an aggressive Russia and the potential loss of US security protections.

US President Donald Trump has turbocharged calls for Europe to rearm by casting doubt on Washington’s central role in NATO and making overtures towards Russia on Ukraine.

In a bid to give the EU’s 27 countries the tools to ramp up spending, Brussels this month unveiled a raft of proposals it says could mobilize up to 800 billion euros ($875 billion). Now officials are putting flesh on the bones of those plans and setting a timeline—starting from next month—for member states to react.

“If Europe wants to avoid war, Europe must get ready for war,” European Commission chief von der Leyen said Tuesday.

“By 2030, Europe must have a strong European defence posture.”

The plan proposes easing the bloc’s fiscal rules to allow states to spend much more on defence, a measure the commission says could potentially unlock 650 billion euros over four years.

In a white paper to be unveiled Wednesday Brussels was set to urge EU countries to kick off that process by April, according to a draft seen by AFP.

It also says they should approve “as a matter of urgency” an initiative to provide member states with up to 150 billion euros in loans backed by the EU’s central budget.

But the paper steers clear of recommending a bigger programme of joint borrowing, despite some EU countries arguing that the bloc needs the same massive infusion of cash it pumped in to recover from the COVID pandemic. AFP

cerning a judicial decision,” Roberts said in a brief statement.

“The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”

“For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement con-

Roberts’s extraordinary rebuke of the president came after Trump called for the impeachment of District Judge James Boasberg, who ordered the suspension over the weekend of deportation flights of alleged illegal migrants.

The White House has been sharply

France tries Cambodian ex-PM’s guards

PARIS—Two ex-bodyguards for former Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen go on trial in absentia in France on Wednesday, charged over a 1997 grenade attack on a leading opposition figure. Several grenades detonated on March 30, 1997 during an opposition rally of around 200 people in Phnom Penh denouncing state corruption. At least 16 people were killed and 150 injured. Sam Rainsy, a former finance minister and leading opposition figure, was the target of the attack that NGO Human Rights Watch has called “an open wound in Cambodia”. He was lightly injured. The two main suspects, Hing Bun

critical of district courts that have blocked some of the president’s executive actions. However, this was the first time Trump has personally called for a judge’s impeachment since he took office in January, saying that Boasberg was a “Radical Left Lunatic of a Judge, a troublemaker and agitator who was sadly appointed by Barack Hussein Obama.”

Heang, now 68, and Huy Piseth, 69, are being tried in absentia. Neither has asked for legal representation.

France in 2020 issued an arrest warrant for both men on suspicion of attempted murder, for which they could be sentenced to life in prison.

Rainsy, 76, who lives in exile in France and has French citizenship, in November 2000 filed a legal complaint over the incident, triggering the investigation.

Two decades later, the French judiciary came to the conclusion -- backed by findings from the United States’ FBI and the United Nations, among others -- that Hing Bun Heang had recruited the attackers, and that Huy Piseth had facilitated their escape. AFP

AFP

“This judge, like many of the Crooked Judges’ I am forced to appear before, should be IMPEACHED!!!” he said in a Truth Social post earlier Tuesday.

Hours later, Brandon Gill, a Republican lawmaker from Texas, announced on social media platform X that he had introduced articles of impeachment in the House against Boasberg, whom he described as a “radical activist judge.” AFP

Confident Norris seeks China success as F1 sprint beckons

SHANGHAI — Early championship leader

Lando Norris knows he will face a new series of challenges at this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix, including the first sprint race of the season.

Warm and dry weather is forecast for Saturday’s sprint and Sunday’s second grand prix of the year on the 5.451km Shanghai International Circuit, where long turns and heavy braking zones are notoriously punishing on tyres. The conditions will be a marked contrast to last weekend’s wet and wild season-opener in Melbourne, a race run almost entirely on intermediate wet tyres and punctuated by long stints under the safety car.

McLaren’s Norris survived a late slither onto gravel, damaging his car’s floor, before holding off a charging Max Verstappen to take the chequered flag.

It is a fast turnaround to China, where teams will have just 60 minutes of practice on Friday morning to fine-tune their set-ups before the afternoon’s sprint qual-

Bulldogs, Tigers make UAAP tennis semifinals

DEFENDING champion University of Santo Tomas and National University secured their spots in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Tennis Final Four after defeating their respective opponents, Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila.

The Male Tennisters leaned on Steven Sonsona and Symon Jaculan in a pivotal second doubles match, where the duo delivered a commanding 7(7)-6(2), 6-2 victory over Andrei Jarata and Ava Mandac to clinch a 4-1 win against University of the Philippines.

“’Di pa rin dapat kami luluwang. Ganu’n pa rin ‘yung routine namin arawaraw, training tapos kailangan alagaan namin ‘yung fitness nila kasi du’n talaga nagkakatalo. ‘Pag tumagal ‘yung laro namin, ‘yung iba kasi nagka-cramps na so talagang importante ‘yung meron kaming therapist na nag-aayos sa fitness namin,” said UST assistant coach Johnny Arcilla.

“May tiwala kami sa players namin kasi mga beterano na sila eh. Meron kaming MVP, rookie-MVP, so ‘yung mindset namin, focus lang talaga muna,” he added.

Ericjay Tangub delivered a gritty performance in a back-and-forth second singles match, overcoming UP’s Miguel Iglupas with a 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 victory to get UST rolling.

Nilo Ledama added to UST’s strong start with a hard-fought 6(1)-7(7), 6-3, 6-3 win over Lance Fernandez in the first singles match, putting the Male Tennisters up 2-0. Richard Bautista and Nash Agustines then sealed UST’s victory with a composed performance in the first doubles match, outlasting Loucas Fernandez and Raymund Goco in a tight opening set before cruising to a 7(7)-6(3), 6-2 win.

ifying shootout. The 19-lap sprint race is on Saturday morning before grand prix qualifying later the same day. Sunday sees the main race over 56 laps.

Norris finished a distant second behind Verstappen’s Red Bull when Formula One returned to China last April after a five-year absence, but the Englishman is now the man to beat.

“I’m confident that when we go to China we can be very strong because we were strong there last year with not a very good car,” Norris said after his Melbourne victory.

Verstappen’s success in Shanghai a year ago was his fourth in five races as he dominated the early season before going on to win his fourth world championship.

- Hamilton Ferrari woe -

But in Australia on Sunday Verstappen was easily dropped by the McLarens once Oscar Piastri passed him for second place.

Verstappen was at one stage 16 seconds adrift before a Piastri spin and a safety car gave him a late chance to pressure Norris.

“We only have a few days before we are in China so not sure how much we will be able to find and turn around,” said the Dutchman, who is seeking a fifth consecutive world title, a feat only previously achieved by Michael Schumacher.

Verstappen also won the sprint in China last year, blasting past Lewis Hamilton in a Mercedes.

Now with Ferrari, Hamilton’s debut for the Italian team saw the seven-time world champion berate a car that was “a lot worse” than he thought it would be as he came home 10th.

Hamilton and team-mate Charles Leclerc were also compromised by being left out too long by the team on slicks when rain returned. AFP

Lady Altas battle SSC belles, eye 6th straight win

By Dennis Abrina

THE Perpetual Help Lady Altas aim for their sixth consecutive win as they face the Lady Stags of San Sebastian College-Recoletos on Thursday, 11 a.m. in the NCAA Season 100 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Jose Rizal University Gym in Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City.

Coach Sandy Rieta’s Lady Altas, currently leading the league with a perfect 5-0 record, will once again rely on their core players to secure their sixth victory when they take on the Lady Stags, who hold a 3-1 record.

Shaila Omipon, Winnie Bedaña, Daizerlyn Uy, Tagaytay City native Pauline Reyes, Camille Bustamante, rookie Jemalyn Menor, libero Marina Andal, libero Joanna Denise Lozano, and setter Fianne Ariola are expected to showcase their speed and powerful spikes for Perpetual.

The Las Piñas-based team secured its fifth straight win in their last match, defeating the Emilio Aguinaldo College Lady Generals in three sets (25-18, 2624, 28-26). Bedaña led the scoring with a combined 34 points, followed by Uy with 12 points and Omipon with 10 points.

Meanwhile, the defending champion Altas Spikers will seek their fifth win against the Stags’ men’s volleyball team at 9 a.m. The EAC Lady Generals (1-4) and the Letran Lady Knights (40) will compete at 1 p.m. Rieta hopes to maintain their strong form as they approach the Final Four.

The Lady Altas last won the championship in 2014, achieving a Grand Slam victory, led by Royce Tubino, April Sartin, Sandy Delos Santos, Jane Diaz, and Jheck Dionela.

MPTC Tour of Luzon partners with Cardinal Santos Medical Center

THE Metro Pacific Tollways Corpora-

tion (MPTC) Tour of Luzon 2025 forged an essential partnership with Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) on the safe conduct of the much-anticipated revival of the race.

MPTC and event organizer DuckWorld PH formalized their agreement with CSMC on Monday that will ensure the health and safety of all cyclists and members of the Tour entourage during the eight-stage bikathon that will kick off in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, on April 24 and finish at Camp John Hay in Baguio City on May 1.

CSMC President and CEO Raul C. Pagdanganan signed the memorandum of agreement with DuckWorld Chairman John Patrick Gregorio during the official partnership ceremony held at the Philippine Center for Advanced Surgery of CSMC.

“This partnership enables us to apply our expertise that will not only help in responding to health and safety needs of the athletes and participants, but more so aid in the athletes’ optimal condition to compete,’’ Pagdanganan said.

CSMC will specifically provide topnotch medical services throughout the

fabled multi-stage cycling Tour, offering on-site emergency care, first aid stations, transport services and immediate response teams.

``This MOA with the Cardinal Santos Medical Center is a testament to the commitment of the MVP Group in seeing the MPTC Tour of Luzon 2025 properly conducted,’’ MPTC Chief Regulatory Officer Arrey Perez said.

“The intensity of this race will push to the limit, and we want to make sure everyone is properly supported and cared for,’’ added Perez. With 105 riders from 15 participating teams, the opening stage is an out-and-back 180-kilometer course in Paoay followed by a team trial trial race in Stage 2 (60 kilometers) going to Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

The third stage takes the cyclists to San Juan, La Union (135kms) before pedaling 150kms from Agoo, La Union to Clark in Stage 4.

``We are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for every participant, and our alliance with a trusted medical services partner enables us to respond swiftly and effectively to any health emergency,’’ Gregorio said.

Duplantis headlines as world indoors get Nanjing green light

NANJING — Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis headlines a stellar cast in the Chinese city of Nanjing for a world indoor athletics championships delayed three times by the Covid-19 pandemic. Nanjing was picked to host the biennial event back in 2020, then in 2021 and then again in 2023. They were all moved due to coronavirus rules. In 2022 the event was instead held in Belgrade and in 2023 in Glasgow. It now has the green light and Nanjing’s Cube will play host to 576 athletes from 127 countries competing in 26 events over three days of action from March 21-23. That number includes 11 individual defending champions -- notably world record holders Duplantis (pole vault), Devynne Charlton and Grant Holloway (60m hurdles) -- and 20 medallists from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Duplantis, Holloway, Hamish Kerr (high jump), Thea Lafond (triple jump) and Miltiadis Tentoglou (long jump) followed up their Glasgow indoor successes with Olympic gold. They will be joined in Nanjing by fellow Olympic gold medallists Yaroslava Mahuchikh (high jump) and Jakob Ingebrigtsen (1500m and 3000m), also world record holders.

“I’m super excited,” Duplantis said.

“It was my first time competing in China last outdoor season for the first two Diamond League meets and I jumped extremely well, broke the world record, to 6.24m. The US-born Swede comes into the competition having bettered his world record -- for the 11th time -- to 6.27m at an indoor meet in the French city of Clermont on March 1. - ‘Not fixated’

DUCKWORLD chairman John Patrick Gregorio (second from left) seal the partnership with Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) president and CEO Raul C. Pagdanganan. With them are (from left) MPTC Tour of Luzon 2025 project director Dean Francis Diaz and CSMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Antonio S. Say.

DOUBLE-GOLD MEDALIST. San Fernando, Pampanga native and Grade 12 Perpetual Help student Alfredo Pineda (right) wins the 200-meter run in the NCAA Season 100 Track and Field Finals on Tuesday at the New Clark City Arena. Capas, Tarlac. Inset shows Pineda, who also bagged the gold in the 100 meters and settled for the silver in the 400 meters, at the podium holding his medals. Dennis Abrina

First-placed McLaren’s British driver Lando Norris celebrates on the podium after the Australian Formula One Grand Prix at Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne. AFP

Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis

THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Another Obiena takes flight

HD Spikers eliminate Protectors; Griffins in High five for High5 futsal leagues

CIGNAL wrapped up its elimination round campaign in style.

The defending champions overcame a third-set scare to eliminate Alpha Insurance in four sets, 25-19, 25-20, 19-25, 25-20, in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The HD Spikers closed the eliminations with back-to-back victories, advancing to the round-robin semifinals as the second seed with an impressive 8-2 record in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.

Cignal’s win also secured VNS-Laticrete’s place in the playoffs as the fourth and final seed. VNS-Laticrete is set to face Savouge later in the day, with the semifinals scheduled to begin this Sunday. With most of their starters on minute restrictions, Vince Abrot and Martin Bugaoan stepped up to provide the much-needed firepower to fend off Alpha Insurance.

Abrot led the charge with a game-high 15 points, tallying eight attacks, four kill blocks, and three service aces. He also contributed 10 excellent receptions and six excellent digs. Bugaoan added 12 points, including five of the team’s 15 total blocks, in the one-hour and 40-minute contest.

“At least nakikita namin na going to the semifinals, may mga bala pa kami,” said Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor, referring to second-stringers Abrot and Bugaoan.

“May mga pwede kaming hugutin na makakatulong sa amin. Kung mapapansin niyo, hindi ko masyadong pinasok ‘yung first six kasi starting yesterday hanggang Sunday, tuloy-tuloy ‘yung magiging laro at training namin,” he added. Despite a strong fightback in the third set—led by the younger Bugaoan, who scored six points in an 8-1 run that turned a 10-16 deficit into an 18-17 lead—the HD Spikers failed to close it out in straight sets. JM Apolinario, Edward Camposano, and Vincent Nadera countered with an 8-1 finishing kick of their own, forcing a fourth set.

ORGANIZERS of the High5 Futsal

Men’s and Women’s Leagues affirmed their commitment to discover and develop fresh talents who will soon represent the country in major international competitions.

In a press briefing at the Amici Italian Restaurant in Greenhills on Wednesday, High5 chief organizer Danny Moran said they remain committed to serve as the primary platform for those who are looking to improve their skills by testing their mettle against the best futsal players in the country.

In fact, most of the members of the very successful Pinay5 Futsal Club were products of the High5 program, proving that the prestigious inter-club leagues are the breeding grounds of the best Filipino futsal players.

A former member of the national men’s football team, Moran is the chairman of the Henry V. Moran Foundation, the organization that has been helping the development of futsal in the country for the past 10 years. He spearheaded

the establishment of the High5 Leagues as well as the formation of the Pinay5 Futsal Club — the first ever professional futsal club in the country.

“The High5 Futsal Men’s and Women’s Leagues represents the highest level of futsal in the country today as it features top clubs and universities,” Moran said. “Now in their fourth year, the High5 Leagues are also the longest-running futsal leagues in Southeast Asia.”

Aside from Moran, also present during the press briefing were Dutch coach Vic Hermans, who serves as Director for Sports of the Henry V. Moran Foundation, as well as key players Demely Rollon, Agot Danton, Isabella Bandoja, Jada Bicierro, Lanie Ortillo, Mykaella Abeto and Kaycee Nañola.

Tuloy FC, a club composed of lessfortunate players, has dominated the women’s division after winning the titles in the first three editions while Gawad Kalinga FC ruled the men’s side in the previous staging of the High5 Leagues last year.

Now, the Pinay5 has been dominating the early stretch of the women’s division that started last February 22 with three of its players making it to the preselected national squad that will compete when the country hosts the 2025 FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup this November.

“Everybody in this tournament wants to win,” the 71-year-old Hermans, a well-respected figure in international futsal, said, adding that the powerhouse Pinay5 is determined to go all the way and win the title.

“This team is formed after December and we know that all their players are of international-caliber.”

Moran stressed that with the success of the High5 Leagues in developing the country’s futsal program, they are seriously considering the idea of expanding it to major cities in the country like Cebu City, Pangasinan, Cagayan de Oro City, and Davao City that will culminate with a general championship in Metro Manila.

VETERANS and rising stars will try to outdo each other when they vie in the season-opening SMART/ MVPSF National Carlos Palanca, Jr. Taekwondo Championships on March 22-23 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum

The Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) organizing committee said around 2,000 practitioners of the popular Korean martial arts had confirmed participation in the two-day event which also has the backing of the Philippine Sports Commission, MILO and the Philippine Olympic Committee.

The CPJ tournament, which in the past produced elite members of the Philippine team, will be the first in PTA’s busy schedule for the year, having lined-up top level tournaments where its top athletes are going to take part ahead of major international tournaments, including the

By Randy M. Caluag

A

NEW Obiena is making waves in pole vaulting scene.

Matt Obiena, cousin of world no. 4 EJ Obiena, soared to victory by clinching the gold medal in the men’s seniors’ pole vault event of the NCAA Season 100 Track and Field Championships at the New Clark City in Tarlac.

The graduating Digital Arts student from Colegio de San Juan de Letran cleared 4.10 meters to take the top podium spot, marking a major milestone in his athletic journey.

His father, Edward Obiena—a former national athlete himself—was quick to give credit where it was due -- his brother Emerson Obiena, Matt’s uncle and mentor.

“Matt’s success this season is largely thanks to my brother Emerson and the Philippine Pole Vault Club,” Edward shared with Manila Standard in a private message.

Emerson, also a former national athlete, is not only EJ’s father and coach, but also heads the Philippine Pole Vault Club, which trains athletes from NCAA schools Benilde, Perpetual, Arellano, San Sebastian, and Letran. Matt’s path to gold was far from smooth.

Edward recalled introducing him to pole vaulting in 2019 after Matt was inspired by his brother Francis, who was then the Palarong Pambansa record holder. Since then, Matt has faced numerous setbacks—from pandemic disruptions to injuries—but never lost sight of his goals.

“His passion and perseverance have finally paid off after overcoming several stumbling blocks,” Edward added. Matt himself reflected on his long journey through his social media posts:

“From placing 4th in my first year as a junior in 2019 to missing out on events in Seasons 98 and 99, I finally brought home a gold medal for Letran,” he wrote. “It’s been a long road to get here, and I know there’s still more ahead.”

Matt also revealed he was aiming for an even higher jump but was hampered by a foot injury during his final attempt.

“Even though I couldn’t perform at my peak due to the injury, I’m still grateful for the experience and for bringing home the win. I wouldn’t be here without my coaches, family, and friends, and I’ll always be thankful for their support.”

Determined to keep pushing forward, Matt ended with a promise: “The only way from here is up.”a

Eagle propels Uyking to World Qualifying lead

STA. ROSA, Laguna – Johanna Uyking delivered a stunning eagle on the challenging No. 18 to cap off a roller-coaster round, grabbing the lead in the girls’ 1314 division of the USwing Mojing Junior World Qualifying at The Country Club here on Wednesday.

Despite struggling in the demanding windy conditions, Uyking leaned on her exceptional driving to card a 77, seizing a two-shot advantage over Precious Zaragosa, who settled for a 79 after a late stumble.

2,000 fighters

SEA Games in Thailand this December and the World Championships in Wuxi, China.

Competitions will be divided into two events – Kyorugi (Free Sparring) and Poomsae (Forms).

The Kyorugi will feature Senior, Junior, Cadet for both male and female fighters, while Poomsae will have two events – the Recognized (Individual, Team and Mixed pair) and Freestyle (Individual and Mixed pair) also for both male and female jins.

The association will also be sending its top fighters in the World Cadet Taekwondo Championships and Chuncheon Korea Open Championships.

Parents interested to enrol their children and sports enthusiasts willing to embrace the sport are encouraged to witness this event starting at 9 a.m. onwards on Saturday and Sunday.

“I drove the ball pretty straight today (Wednesday), which helped a lot,” said the 13-year-old Uyking, a student at Davao Christian High School. But it was her spectacular 3-wood approach from 190 yards into a headwind on the par-4 18th that proved to be the highlight, as the ball found the hole for an eagle-2. TCC, notorious for its punishing layout and ever-changing gusts, made for a true test of skill and resilience. With its length, hazards and undulating greens, even par often felt like a birdie, and the young contenders had to treat every shot as a calculated risk.

Vic Hermans and Danny Moran (center) are working hard to give underprivileged children a chance to have better lives through futsal. Also shown are players Demely Rollon, Agot Danton, Isabella Bandoja, Jada Bicierro, Lanie Ortillo, Mykaella Abeto and Kaycee Nañola. A player in blue armor hits his opponent with

Matt Obiena prepares for take off during the men’s seniors’ pole vault of the NCAA Season 100 Track and Field Championships at the New Clark City. (GMA Synergy)

Johanna Uyking (Manny Marcelo)

allows GCash to cut public float to 15% in IPO plan

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Philippine Stock Exchange said Wednesday mobile wallet G-Cash could list on the local bourse at a lower public float of 15 percent, instead of the 20-percent required under the listing rules.

PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon said the bourse secured the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval to allow companies raising at least P5 billion to list with a 15-percent public float. Monzon said the PSE was having liquidity problem, and companies were having a hard time approving an IPO because of the 20-percent public float requirement.

GCash and other companies that will avail of the special accommodation, however, will be required to do a followon offering or private placement in two to three years to meet the 20-percent float requirement.

SEC commissioner McJill Bryant Fernandez said the regulator remained firm on the 20-percent minimum public ownership.

“We are firm on the 20 percent. The rule is you have to do the 20 percent,” Fernandez said.

Fernandez noted, however, that companies may seek “exemptive relief” from the regulator depending on market conditions.

A veteran stockbroker said the PSE’s move to accommodate G-Cash IPO is a step back from the previous thrust of the SEC which aimed to boost local market liquidity and attract quality investors.

Recto: BSP likely to cut rates in next meeting

By Darwin G. Amojelar

DEPARTMENT of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said he expects the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to ease the monetary policy at its next meeting to stimulate economic growth.

“It would appear that, because inflation has been controlled in the Philippines and inflation today is something like 2.5 percent, there is room for a rate cut in our next [meeting] so we’re in an easing cycle,” Recto said in an interview with Bloomberg TV.

“It’s a high probability that we could do a rate cut also for our next meeting,” he said.

The Monetary Board is scheduled to meet on April 10, 2025.

Recto anticipates interest rate cuts of 50 to 75 basis points this year, which would boost economic growth by at least half a percentage point.

“If we could reduce it in the next two years by 150 basis points, probably even higher. Now, during the last decade, we were growing at an average of 6.4 percent when rates were roughly at about 3.4 to 3.9 percent,” Recto said.

“So, our policy rate is about 5.75

percent. So if you can get the down, plus more investments, because we passed the CREATE MORE law … then hopefully that we could grow up to 7 percent or even higher later on,” he said.

The Monetary Board, at its monetary policy meeting on Feb. 13, 2025, decided to keep the overnight borrowing rate at 5.75 percent.

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

Recto expressed optimism the government would achieve at least 6-percent GDP growth this year.

The Interagency Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) set an annual growth target of 6 percent to 8 percent from 2025 to 2028.

DEPARTMENT of Finance

(DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto said Wednesday former president Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest and trial at the Netherlands would likely have no impact on the Philippines’ economic prospects and investor confidence.

“I don’t think so, because that’s nothing to do with our macroeconomic fundamentals.

To begin with, there was a slight reduction in the stock exchange, but very subdued, but the peso appreciated on the day that he was

arrested,” Recto said in an interview with Bloomberg TV.

“So, it could also mean that the international community is looking at how important the rule of law is to us, and it’s a part of governance as well. With regard to our position, rulebased order, international rule-based order,” he said.

Authorities arrested Duterte on March 11, 2025, pursuant to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber. The ICC accuses him of “crimes against humanity” related

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said rice imports went down by nearly half in the first quarter of 2025 on expectations of good local harvest.

DA assistant secretary Arnel De Mesa reported that as of March 13, 2025, rice imports stood at 641,000 metric tons (MT), a little over half of the 1.2 million MT imported by the end of March last year.

“Compared to imports last year, rice importation has drastically gone down, in part due to an expected bumper harvest this year and because of the declining global prices that have eased the pressure on importing countries,” De Mesa said in a briefing Wednesday.

A month-by-month breakdown

39,164 37,604 38,072

Vehicles sold in February 2025

Vehicles sold in January 2025

Vehicles sold in February 2024

sales rose 2.9% to 39,164 units in February

By Othel V. Campos

to alleged extrajudicial killings during his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

Recto said that he does not anticipate political instability within the government, following the former president’s arrest.

“We have midterm elections this year. Having served in Congress, the House and the Senate, I’ve experienced many elections. I could see that the administration will win a majority of the local government positions, 80 percent I suppose.” Recto said. Darwin G. Amojelar

showed a notable decline in import volumes of 277,000 MT in January compared to 430,000 MT last year; 267,000 MT in February from 343,000 MT a year ago; and just 96,000 MT in March from 415,000 MT in the same month last year. The government adjusted its import strategy to reflect the anticipated strong local harvest.

De Mesa cited a report by an IndianAmerican agricultural economist, noting that rice importation trends in both India and the Philippines were becoming more predictable, influenced by policies and market adjustments in response to domestic production. Othel V. Campos

NEW PCG VESSEL. Philippine Red Cross (PRC) turns over M/V Amazing Grace to Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on March 18, 2025. Attending the ceremony are First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon and PRC chairman Richard Gordon. The M/V Amazing Grace will redefine PCG’s operations, disaster relief efforts and maritime law enforcement and strengthen the country’s capability to address distress situations across the archipelago.

(Meralco),

Petron buys back P1.2b worth of common shares

By Alena Mae S. Flores

OIL refiner Petron Corp. on Wednesday purchased 459,156,097 common shares at P2.4367 apiece or a total of P1.12 billion as part of its share buyback program.

Petron said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange it conducted a share buyback following the approval by its board on March 4, 2025.

Petron said it would own 8,915,948,400 common shares after the buyback.

The company’s board previously approved a share buyback program of up to 620 million shares with terms and conditions to be determined by management.

It included the repurchase of all the 459.16 million common shares held by Petron Corporation Employees’ Retirement Plan via a block sale based on the simple average of the three-day close prior to the execution date.

The buyback also involves up to 167 million shares or about P400 million in a six-month period or until the maximum volume or the maximum amount is exhausted or unless earlier terminated by management.

Share buybacks are seen to enhance shareholder value, improve or preserve stock prices and boost investor confidence in the company.

Petron posted a 16-percent decline in its net income to P8.47 billion in 2024 from P10.1 billion in 2023 on lower regional refining margins brought about by the volatility of world oil prices.

Operating income was at P29.22 billion last year, almost unchanged from P30.72 billion in 2023.

Petron reported P867.97 billion in revenues in 2024, an 8-percent increase from P801.03 billion in 2023 as it continued to grow locally and internationally, while continuously improving efficiency, driving climate action and supporting nation-building efforts.

Consolidated sales volume grew 10 percent to 139.85 million barrels, driven by higher demand and strategic growth initiatives.

PH stock market rises amid bargain-hunting

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) rose Wednesday as investors resumed bargain-hunting activities.

The main index jumped 28.44 points, or 0.45 percent, to close at 6,313.12, while the broader all-shares index went up by 26.26 points, or 0.70 percent, to 3,749.35.

“The local market bounced back as investors hunted for bargains supported by appreciation for corporate fundamentals,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said.

Analysts said investors also welcomed positive comments from Finance Secretary Ralph Recto about the domestic economy.

Recto said in an interview with BloombergTV he remains confident that the Philippine economy would grow by 6 percent this year.

Sectors were mixed, with the banks taking the lead of 1.35-percent rise, while industrial rose 1 percent. Mining and oil declined 1.26 percent and services by 0.81 percent.

Foreigners were net buyers for the day, with net inflows of P392.22 million. Gainers outnumbered losers, 93 to 88.

Globe Telecom Inc. was the top index leader, jumping 4.76 percent to P2,200, while Alliance Global Group Inc. was the day’s main index laggard, declining 2.95 percent to P5.93.

Asian equity markets were mixed, as gold hit another record high on

Wednesday.

The tepid start to the day followed tech-led losses on Wall Street, while an agreement between US President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin that Russia would stop targeting Ukrainian energy was met with a shrug.

The yen gave up initial gains against the dollar after the Bank of Japan kept interest rates on hold, warning about the outlook amid “high uncertainties” including over trade. Investors are also gearing up for central bank decisions in the United States, the United Kingdom and Indonesia, where stocks tanked Tuesday on concerns about Indonesia’s economy.

Fresh pledges by China to boost domestic consumption and welcome data out of the United States that eased recession worries helped Asian markets to a strong start to the week.

But Trump’s scattergun trade policies, which have seen him impose measures on some key partners but delay others, have stoked uncertainty.

While no new levies have been announced in recent days, the next key date is April 2, when sweeping reciprocal measures are due to kick in, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent telling Fox Business “each country will receive a number that we believe represents their tariffs”.

“We are going to go to them and say, look, here’s where we think the tariff levels are, non-tariff barriers, currency manipulation, unfair funding, labour suppression,” he said on “Mornings With Maria.” With AFP

THE SM group’s retail loyalty program, SMAC, signed a strategic tie-up with AirAsia rewards to offer enhanced shopping and travel experiences.

The collaboration expands the value for both SMAC and AirAsia rewards members, while strengthening SM’s presence across retail and travel sectors.

As part of the “My SMAC, My MOVE” lifestyle campaign, SMAC members can convert 500 AirAsia points into 125 SMAC Points via the AirAsia MOVE app, integrating the benefits of travel rewards into the SMAC ecosystem.

The partnership builds on SMAC’s extensive network and introduces new rewards for frequent travelers and shoppers alike.

“We are excited to launch this collaboration with AirAsia rewards,” said Patrick Cua, SMAC chief operating officer.

“By combining shopping and travel rewards, we’re enhancing the value of our loyalty program and offering more meaningful experiences to our members,” said Cua.

SMAC points earned through the partnership can be redeemed across a wide array of SM Retail Stores including SM Store, SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, Savemore, SM Appliance Center, and other popular brands like ACE Hardware, Our Home, Surplus and Watsons. Members can also convert 200 SMAC points into 300 AirAsia points via the SMAC website (smac.ph), providing more travel benefits and increasing the value for both shoppers and travelers.

“This partnership underscores our commitment to offering greater rewards and a seamless experience for our customers,” said Nicole Tan, AirAsia rewards chief business officer.

“Working with SM allows us to enhance the value we provide to loyal customers in both the retail and travel sectors,” said Tan. The partnership brings business benefits to both parties. SM increases engagement and foot traffic across its retail stores while deepening customer loyalty.

AirAsia rewards said the collaboration taps into a new base of active shoppers, further strengthening its position in the Philippine travel market.

The parties aim to create an expansive rewards ecosystem that combines shopping, travel, and lifestyle benefits.

The strategic tieup aligns with both companies’ goals to drive customer loyalty, expand their reach, and enhance brand visibility.

SM Group’s retail loyalty program SMAC teams up with AirAsia rewards to enhance the shopping and travel experiences

of its members. Signing the agreement are (from leftt) John Patrick Cua, SMAC chief operating officer; Jonathan Ng, SM

Retail chief finance officer; Herson Sy, SM Group executive director; Nicole Tan, AirAsia rewards chief business officer;

Ricky Isla, AirAsia Philippines chief executive; and Leong Diyao, AirAsia rewards regional head.

PAYMENT

TECHNOLOGY.

Clark Development Corp. president and chief executive Agnes Devanadera taps an NFC card to the payment terminal produced by DeviceDesign Philippines Corp. in Clark Freeport, assisted by Yong Lim Choi, DPC vice president.

DPC opened a new factory at Manunggal Street on March 13, 2025, investing P103 million and creating employment opportunities for more than 500 individuals over the next five years.

GFNI expects double-digit revenue growth in 2025

By Jenniffer B. Austria

GLOBAL Ferronickel Holdings Inc.,

(GFNI) a leading nickel ore producer in the Philippines, said it expects a double-digit revenue growth in 2025 on the back of higher production.

GFNI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday production from Palawan mine is expected to double to 3 million wet metric tons (WMT) this year from 1.5 million WMT last year. Increased productivity from Surigao mine and improved contribution from port operations in Bataan will also contribute to higher top-line for this year, it said.

GFNI said it also earmarked P711.8

million for 2025 capital investments to finance strategic priorities.

These include the development of existing mines and expansion of resources, with ongoing exploration permit applications in North Luzon, Eastern Samar, Camarines and additional areas in Surigao.

It also covers further investments in warehouse and container terminal in Bataan as well as pursuing valueadded nickel processing, primarily ferronickel and battery-grade nickel facilities.

GFNI booked P743.9 million in net income in 2024, down by more than 50 percent from P1.5 billion from in 2023 on to lower revenues.

Mining revenues stood at P7.59

Basic gets DOE’s nod to start 62-MW Mariveles solar project

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy (DOE) awarded Basic Energy Corp. a certificate of authority (COA) for its 62-megawatt Mariveles Solar Power Project in Bataan.

Basic said in a disclosure the COA, issued under the DOE’s revised Omnibus Guidelines Governing the Award and Administration of Renewable Energy Contracts, empowers the company to begin securing the necessary permits and tenure instruments required for the project.

This certificate also allows the company to initiate procurement activities ahead of the 25-year solar energy operating contract term.

The Mariveles solar project spans 72 hectares and is expected to generate a peak output of at least 62 MW

based on a preliminary assessment by an independent third-party firm.

“With the COA secured, Basic Energy Corporation will now move forward with the next steps in the development process. This includes obtaining approvals from relevant national agencies and local government units, as well as conducting a System Impact Study in collaboration with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines,” the company said.

“We are excited to advance the development of the Mariveles Solar Power Project and remain committed to providing updates as the project progresses,” it said.

Basic is also developing the 50MW Mabini Wind Energy Project in Batangas with Japanese firm RENOVA Inc.

AN ALTERNATIVE central station for bus and other public vehicles in the northern part of Metro Manila is gathering dust.

The project, dubbed the North Integrated Transport System, or North ITS Project, is supposed to remove the provincial bus terminals that have been choking traffic in major thoroughfares including EDSA.

Newly-appointed Department of Transportation Secretary (DOTr) Vince Dizon, perhaps, should revisit the project and speed up its construction. The North ITS Project is a promising solution to Metro Manila’s traffic congestion.

The DOTr back in 2023 obtained funding support from the Public-Private Partnership Center for a pre-feasibility study on the North ITS Project.

The North ITS Project seeks to establish an integrated, multi-modal transport and logistics system designed as a multi-level and mixed-use terminal facility in the northern part of Metro Manila.

The commuting public would benefit from the project through a significant reduction in traffic congestion along EDSA. For starters, it would relocate bus terminals in Quezon City.

The North ITS Project would create effective interconnections between several transport modes and services, increasing access to public transportation services for the commuting public.

As an integrated terminal facility, it is expected to host northbound provincial buses from Metro Manila and vice versa, serve passengers bound for/departing from areas in the northern part of capital region and connect passengers to other urban transport systems, which are serving inner Metro Manila.

The proposed terminal facility aligns with the sustainable development goals of the United

billion, down 13.4 percent yearon-year on lower nickel ore prices which was partially offset by strong volumes.

“While market conditions are beyond our control, we are laying a strong foundation for the future by funding growth and unlocking efficiencies,” said GFNI president Dante Bravo.

“In 2024, we sustained double-digit volume growth, reduced our average cash operating cost per volume sold, and reinvested back in the business. Looking ahead, we will build on these achievements as we continue to advance on our strategy to capture new revenue streams and deliver profit growth,” said Bravo.

Ajinomoto PH eyes third facility to meet demand

By Othel V. Campos

AJINOMOTO Philippines Corp. (APC) plans to establish a third manufacturing facility in the country to meet the growing demand for its core products and support the expansion of its product lineup.

APC president Koichi Ozaki said that while no final decision had been made, the company was studying its future production strategy.

“We have two factories here in the Philippines—one in Bulacan, built in 1991, and another in Cebu, established in 2004. However, their capacities are nearing full utilization. We need to think about our future production strategy, but nothing has been decided yet,” Ozaki said.

The company employs 900 fulltime workers and 1,100 contract employees, bringing the total workforce to about 2,000 people. The Philippines remains one of Ajinomoto’s top five markets globally.

APC is also expanding its product offerings beyond seasonings, venturing into the frozen food and instant soup businesses.

“We just entered the frozen food and instant soup market, which is a new challenge for us to provide Filipino consumers with new experiences,” Ozaki said.

The company is importing frozen gyoza and Japanese fried chicken karaage from its factory in Thailand but is open to local production if the business expands further.

As the company assesses its next steps, the possibility of a third facility remains under study to support its growth ambitions in the Philippine market.

The company said it is optimistic about sustaining a double-digit growth in 2025, driven primarily by its core seasoning business and expanding into new food categories.

Integrated terminal in the north taking long to build

Nations. It will incorporate universal design principles, gender responsive features and crime prevention through environmental design to address the needs of persons with limited mobility, senior citizens, women and other vulnerable groups.

It is also expected to be responsive to environmental changes by integrating climateappropriate and disaster-resilient design and using energy-efficient materials in the development of facilities.

The North ITS Project compliments Project Hub, a major transportation terminal in Quezon City that will be bigger than the size of the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).

Project HUB is rising on a three-hectare Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) lot along Elliptical Circle at the corner of Commonwealth Ave. By 2027, the hub will greatly enhance access to the neighboring Philcoa Station of the MRT-7 when it begins operating from the North Triangle Common Station in North Edsa to San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan.

This centrally-located terminal aims to maximizes connectivity with the city and surrounding regions. GSIS president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso has touted Project Hub as a world-class intermodal transport hub that streamlines the bus travel experience, focusing on efficiency, passenger comfort, and seamless connectivity with other transport modes including the MRT-7.

The ITS Project and Project Hub are two critical projects that could significantly ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

The PITX in Parañaque is a step to decongesting Metro Manila, serving as gateway to the south of the capital region. It has also

For starters, it would relocate bus terminals in Quezon City.

served as a terminal for over 105 bus destinations—72 provincial and 33 in-city.

Decongesting traffic in Metro Manila, however, is not an easy task. The earlier proposal of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to pursue the development of nearby provinces and cities to decongest Metro Manila is, perhaps, the only pragmatic solution to the traffic gridlock.

President Marcos was likely referring the migration of future or current economic activities to areas outside of the urban capital as a way to declog Metro Manila.

As I’ve written in this column before, new and expanded roads and railway networks will ease traffic in the metropolis—but they can only provide quick fix remedies to the urban snarl.

A growing population, the

lack of mass transportation system and wide roads, and the continuous migration of workers from the provinces have created the logjam that we are experiencing now. Growing vehicle sales in the Philippines are further constricting the capacities of the roads in Metro Manila.

But baby steps such as the north ITS Project and Project Hub will provide a relief until the state take a real holistic approach to the traffic problem.

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

PROPEL PROGRAM. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) holds a zonal conference on March 14, 2025, at the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), which highlights its PROPEL program, with the theme ‘Accelerating Innovations in the Philippines’. The event gathered key officials, researchers and innovators to discuss how PROPEL strengthens the link between scientific breakthroughs and global market opportunities. The program provides Filipino startups and science and technology (S&T) enterprises with access to DOST’s comprehensive suite of services, facilities and programs.

Filoil-Total joint venture shifts to ‘franchise’ deal

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE joint venture of oil players Filoil Philippines Corp. and Total Philippines Corp. is transitioning into a “franchise set up” in the wake of the reports of the TotalEnergie’s exit from the Philippine retail and distribution market.

“Without breaching the confidentiality agreement executed by the concerned parties, BSC has been informed that the joint venture is transitioning into a franchise setup, with the FPC taking the lead in continuing the

Maya remains top payments processor in PH

MAYA said its enterprise arm Maya Business cemented its position as the leading payments acquirer and processor in the Philippines, facilitating the majority of the country’s card and QR PH transactions in 2024.

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, recognized Maya for processing the highest e-commerce and contactless payment volumes in the Philippines from 2021 to 2024.

Visa also previously recognized Maya as the top acquirer for merchant transaction volume, underscoring their shared commitment to drive digital acceptance and cashless transactions.

Maya said it also maintained its leadership in the QRPH P2M market as a receiver, holding a 44-percent market share in terms of volume of transactions for 2024, as per data from BancNet.

Building on the success, Maya Business surpassed one million registered formal businesses in 2024, driven by its expanding cashless solutions for Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), a growing SME merchant base and a strategic focus on highmargin sectors such as services and retail.

“It’s exciting to see our innovations powering payments for businesses of all sizes across the country. Our technology is about accessibility,” said Shailesh Baidwan, Maya Group president and Maya Bank co-founder.

“We meet merchants where they are, rather than expecting them to adapt to traditional models,” said Baidwan.

Total brand and business operations under Total Philippines Corp.

[TPC] - TotalEnergies will remain the franchisor of the brand and business,” Basic Energy Corp. said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

FPC and Total Philippines created a joint venture for the fuel sales business in the Philippines in 2016. Total Philippines decided to exit the joint venture.

Basic said it was assured that the transition into a franchisee setup would have no material effect or impact on its business and operations.

It said FPC is the primary transact-

ing party with TotalEnergies, a separate entity from Filoil Energy Company Inc. (FEC) which is the company that it invested in.

Both FPC and FEC are separate corporate entities under the “Filoil group of companies,” it said.

TotalEnergies’ other activities such as the renewables and business and business process outsourcing operations is not affected by the transaction.

TotalEnergies has 400 remaining employees in the Philippines, and they expect the renewables and BPO to continue to grow.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines’ balance of payments (BOP) recorded a $3.1-billion surplus in February 2025, a turnaround from the $196-million deficit in the same month last year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday.

The BOP surplus reflected the national government’s (NG) net foreign currency deposits with the BSP, which include proceeds from ROP Global Bonds and net income from the BSP’s foreign investments.

Data showed that the February surplus led to a cumulative BOP deficit of $992 million as of February 2025, slightly higher than the $936-million deficit reported a year ago.

The two-month deficit reflected mainly the widening trade in goods deficit and net outflows from foreign portfolio investments, but was partially offset by net receipts from foreign borrowings by the NG and personal remittances.

Based on the preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) International Merchandise Trade Statistics (IMTS), the trade deficit in January 2025 reached $5.1 billion, up from $4.4 billion seen in January 2024.

The improved BOP position mirrored

DOE endorses 12 energy projects for system impact study

THE Department of Energy (DOE) said it endorsed 12 energy projects for system impact study to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) in February 2025.

“In February 2025, the DOE issued 12 SIS endorsements, which are composed of three amendments and nine new applications,” the DOE said.

The SIS will determine the capacity of the power grid to accommodate additional capacities and identify necessary improvements needed such as transmission lines, transformers or substations

The DOE endorsed eight proj-

Globe boosts digital learning, provides AI tablets to 5 schools

GLOBE turned over AI-enabled tablets, Blue Boards and Globe Fiber Prepaid WiFi to five schools nationwide through its G-Gantic Goals initiative.

The company said that from Jan. 20 to 27, 2025, it teamed up with Ayala Foundation and Khan Academy to support five beneficiary schools: CENTEX Manila, Pasong Kawayan 2 West Elementary School Cavite City, Lahug Elementary School Cebu City, CENTEX Batangas City and Pampanga High School Pampanga in San Fernando City. Each school was provided 20 tablets pre-loaded with Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) modules, Khan Academy’s educational

resources and AI applications designed to enhance education while boosting creativity and productivity.

The initiative ensures students have access to interactive, world-class digital learning tools. Its goal is to equip students with essential digital skills, strengthen their AI literacy, and promote responsible internet use.

The effort is part of Globe’s G-Gantic Goals, where customers came together to donate over 100,000 rewards points, sharing the gift of access and connectivity to students.

The campaign underscores the power of community-driven impact in bridging the digital divide and addressing challenges that Filipino students face.

ects of Airstream Renewables Corp., including the 100-megawatt Mauban offshore wind farm in Mauban, Quezon province; the 100-MW Capalonga offshore wind farm in Camarines Norte; the 100-MW Mariveles Offshore Wind Farm in Bataan; the 100MW Mercedes Offshore Wind Farm in Camarines Norte; the 100-MW Dumaguete Offshore Wind Farm in Negros Oriental; the 60-MW Sambong Onshore Wind Farm in Nasugbu, Batangas; the 300-MW Sebaste Offshore Wind Farm in Antique and Aklan; and the 30-MW Dapdap East Wind Farm in Batangas.

It also endorsed the 40-MW battery energy storage system project of SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet Inc. in Benguet; Citicore Wind Aklan Inc.’s 45-MW Camarines Sur wind project; Lohas and Soul Lighting Inc.’s 68-MW Jasaan Solar Power Project in Misamis Oriental; and Basic Energy Corp.’s 300-MW Panay Wind Power Project in Antique.

The DOE has so far endorsed 24 projects to the NGCP for grid impact study as of February 2025. The agency continues to woo investments in the generation sector to boost energy security. Alena Mae S. Flores

the increase in the final gross international reserves (GIR) to $107.4 billion as of endFebruary 2025, up from $103.3 billion at the end of January 2025. The GIR level provides a robust external liquidity buffer, equivalent to 7.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. The latest GIR level ensures availability of foreign exchange to meet balance of payments financing needs such as for payment of imports and debt service, in extreme conditions when there are no export earnings or foreign loans. It also covers about 3.8 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity. Short-term debt based on residual maturity refers to outstanding external debt with original maturity of one year or less, plus principal payments on medium- and long-term loans of the public and private sectors falling due within the next 12 months.

IN BRIEF

from left) and CFO chairperson Dante Ang II (third from left).

FFCAP celebrates Int’l Women’s Day

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Associations of the Philippines (FFCAP) launched a series of women-themed activities on March 9,2025 including a health and wellness talk.

Organized by vice chairwoman Sharon Tan, the talk was held at the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center as a special tribute to International Women’s Day.

FFCAP chairman Dante Chua and Philippine Chinese Charitable Association Inc. vice chairman Alberto Lee delivered speeches emphasizing their concerns for women’s health.

The talk featured lectures by Dr. Victoria Sy-Fernando, Dr. Joyce Chua, Dr. Eileen Young Sy and Dr. Irene Yuchongtian Sy, who addressed topics such as cervical cancer prevention, breast lumps, menopause, and female infertility.

In the evening, a celebration for International Women’s Day was held where guests received ribbon bracelets and roses.

Tan delivered welcome remarks, praising and expressing her expectations for women.

A special video interview with legendary female overseas Chinese leader Lin Yuyan shared life wisdom and the positive traits of women.

Former Consul Chen Meiluan of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines sent a letter encouraging women with the concept of six self-reliance.

Hong Shanyi, chairman of the Overseas Chinese Alumni Association, shared her personal journey from China to the Philippines, discussing the balance between family and career.

Hong Yinghui of Falcon Logistics also shared her experiences in pursuing happiness and realizing women’s values.

FFCAP holds a health and wellness talk for women at the Chinese General Hospital.

Ban Tou association celebrates 78 years of helping communities

Cafe Mezzanine donates to volunteer fire brigades

By Julie Ann Lope

LOCATED at Ongpin Street in the heart of Binondo, Cafe Mezzanine, dubbed as “The Fireman’s Coffee Shop”, offers more than just a satisfying meal; it’s a place where food lovers and community supporters come together for a good cause. March is a month dedicated to Fire Prevention Month in the Philippines, and it holds a special significance for the cafe. It serves as a reminder of the critical role fire brigades play in protecting communities, and Cafe Mezzanine contributes to this cause in a very meaningful way. The cafe generously dedicates its proceeds to support the local fire volunteer brigades, namely TXTFire Philippines Inc. and Binondo Paco Volunteer Fire Search and Rescue Brigade, helping to equip them with the resources needed to prevent and respond to fires.

Situated on the second level of the same building as Chuan Kee, Cafe Mezzanine is part of a family-owned culinary legacy in Binondo. The Chua family also owns other notable food businesses in the area, including the

Cafe Mezzanine, dubbed as ‘The Fireman’s Coffee Shop’ iconic Eng Bee Tin, Mr. Ube, and The Great Buddha Cafe, all of which have become staples of Binondo’s food scene.

Cafe Mezzanine’s menu features popular Filipino-Chinese dishes loved by both locals and tourists. From traditional dim sum to comforting rice dishes, Cafe Mezzanine offers a wide variety of meals. Some favorites include asado with adobo egg, kiam-

pong, lechon kawali, special kikiam, fish ball soup, pork maki, patatim, beef maki, and spareribs soup.

Main entrees range from boneless bangus and chopsuey to grilled pork chop, beef tenderloin, and braised beef rice.

The cafe also serves a selection of special soups like soup no. 5, duck soup and black chicken soup. Noodle dishes include beef wanton, seafood chami, pork asado, and miki bihon.

For group dining, the family platters are a great choice, with dishes like lechon macau, sweet and sour pork, crispy chicken, pancit canton, and yangchow fried rice.

To quench your thirst, the cafe offers healthy juices and shakes, including carrot juice, buko shake, and the signature fireman shake.

One can also choose from a variety of hot and cold coffees, such as mezza blend and iced mocha java, or noncoffee options like green tea, jasmine tea, and soya milk. For dessert, enjoy halo-halo, iced banana, or mais con yelo.

Beyond its cozy ambiance and delectable menu, Cafe Mezzanine’s most admirable quality is its commitment to the community.

THE Filipino Chinese Jin Jiang Ban Tou Hometown Association marked its 78th anniversary and held the 79th to 80th officers’ induction ceremony at the Century Park Seafood Restaurant on March 8, 2025. Cai Zhi Xiong was elected as the new president of the association.

A successful businessman and philanthropist, Cai is known for his dedication to public welfare. He donated P50,000 each to the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association Inc. and the Filipino Chinese General Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to his new role as president, Cai is also a director of both associations.

Ban Tou, the hometown of many members of the association, is a renowned overseas Chinese community in Jin Jiang City, Fujian, China. Known for its rich cultural heritage and history, Ban Tou has produced many talented individuals who have contributed to various industries and the growth of the overseas Chinese community.

Michael Wong Ho

FFCCCII

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) held a free medical mission in Barangay Camias, Porac, Pampanga on March 9, 2025. Under the guidance of FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro, the mission aims to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities in the area.

The FFCCCII free medical team, led by Social Responsibility Committee vice director Xu Huan Dong and in collaboration with local officials from Porac, consisted of five

The FFCCCII holds a free medical mission in Barangay

on March 9, 2025.

doctors and ten dentists who provided healthcare services to a total of 227 patients.

Some 200 individuals received medical treatment, while ten dental patients had their teeth extracted. Additionally, the team distributed 17 pairs of reading glasses to those in need.

The mission is part of FFCCCII’s commitment to grassroots communities, with the organization sending its free medical teams every Sunday to serve those in need of healthcare assistance. Michael Wong Ho

Filipino-Chinese women authors shine at PH Book Festival 2025

THREE distinguished Filipino-Chinese authors featured their books at the 2025 Philippine Book Festival at SM Megatrade Hall from March 13 to 16, 2025. The event, organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), aims to bolster and promote the local book industry.

As the country’s largest book exhibition, the festival highlights the work of local authors, offering them a platform to reach broader audiences.

Dr. Joyce Piap Go, the author of the popular Dee the Bee Book Series, showcased her growing collection of books that teach young readers valuable moral lessons.

Published by OMF Literature, the series follows Dee, a lovable bee, on her adventures, imparting important life

lessons through interactive storytelling and colorful illustrations. With 14 titles already released, the series has been highly acclaimed and recognized by various institutions, including the Department of Education (DepEd), which has acknowledged eight of the books for their contribution to the values formation curriculum. Its 15th title will be launched September this year. The series also received the prestigious Kids’ Choice Award from the National Book Development Board. Go holds a Doctorate in Clinical Christian Counseling from the Asia Graduate School of Theology and a Master’s degree from Singapore Bible College.

She hosts the radio program “Heartline” on 702 DZAS and is a popular speaker on family, mental health and related

topics, invited by churches, government institutions, multinational corporations, and NGOs. She is also a board member of RUN Reaching Unreached Nations, Inc., and other organizations.

Architect Judy Uy, author of How to Be Happier in Less Than 20 Minutes… 22 Quick Points to Happiness, offers a fresh perspective on finding happiness.

The book helps readers rethink what causes unhappiness and how to become happier. Each of the 22 points is brief and easy to read, designed for busy people. Each point is paired with a beautiful illustration and inspiring quote.

Uy, an alumna of the University of the Philippines, also completed certificate courses at Yale and Stanford Universities in psychology, well-being, food and health.

Julie Ann Lope

Filipino-Chinese authors feature their books at the 2025 Philippine Book Festival.

Camias, Porac, Pampanga

Source: FFCCCII

THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Angelica Villanueva

SOUTH Korean singeractress and member of the global K-pop sensation Blackpink, Jisoo, launched her first solo fan meeting tour, Lights, Love, Action!, in Manila last weekend.

On Friday, March 14, the Big Dome was filled with excitement and cheers as fans—known as Blinks—greeted the 30-year-old star with thunderous applause, just as she had urged them to in a pre-show video.

“Don’t hold back. Cheer as loud as you want! Forget about the people next to you and let your energy flow,” Jisoo told the audience in the clip. Well, true enough, as the Filipino Blinks didn’t hold back and screamed as loud as they could, proving that they were the best fans in the world.

From the moment she opened the event with “earthquake,” the lead single from her debut EP Amortage, the energy inside the coliseum was unmeasurable.

After her opening act, Jisoo admitted that she was feeling nervous performing in front of her fans.

“At first, I was very nervous. But as I came on stage and saw all my Blinks, I was overjoyed,” she said.

Unlike the fierce, confident persona she often embodies as part of the girl group Blackpink, Jisoo’s solo fan meeting allowed her to show a more playful and candid side.

During the “Lights” segment—a Q&A portion— she charmed the audience with her quick wit and

SHOWBIZ

BLACKPINK’S JISOO kicks off solo world tour in Manila

humor. Throughout the Q&A, she instinctively turned her microphone toward the audience, inviting them to join in the conversation.

In the “Love” segment, Jisoo showcased her creative side, decorating an acrylic frame featuring her Amortage CD and photocard. Taking cues from the audience, she carefully placed stickers and badges before gifting the finished piece, along with a signed Polaroid, to a lucky fan.

As she worked on the frame, host Jessica Lee introduced her to Tagalog phrases such as “mahal kita” (I love you) and “charot” (just kidding). Upon learning the former’s meaning, Jisoo immediately turned to the crowd and declared, “Mahal kita Blinks!”—making the whole crowd give another round of thunderous cheers.

The phrase became her go-to response throughout the night. When asked if she knew any Tagalog, she playfully answered, “Of course, Mahal kita!” before bursting into laughter, realizing she had just learned it minutes earlier.

The segment also showcased Jisoo’s growing identity as a solo artist. With the help of her backup dancers, she delivered dynamic performances of Amortage tracks.

During the one-night show in Manila, fans got to see her perform some of her songs including “earthquake,” “Your Love,” “Tears,” and “Hugs & Kisses.”

Uncompromising Pinay rapper with street cred

IN a medium of expression dominated by boys, here’s a girl rapping her way to fame and legitimacy.

Illest Morena certainly got the style and swag that have, to a certain degree, earned her respect from the hip-hop community. Her numbers can back it up. She has 1.6 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Her official music video for yet her biggest hit, “Faded (Raw)” has generated 34 million views so far since it was uploaded a year ago. She is also featured on the Skusta Clee song “Lagabog”—that track famously opening with the word “kalma,” which by now has garnered more than 41 million views.

This girl from Mandaluyong— the same place mentioned by Francis Magalona in his early hit “Man From Manila”—is not one to sugarcoat things. She is decidedly proud of her roots. She informed the press, “I used to live in Addition Hills—the most congested, most populated area in our city. So, the houses are very close to each other.”

I got to know that area myself when I was recording music at the famed Sonic State Audio Studio. It was implied that you become a better musician after a session from Sonic State. What more if you have immersed yourself in that kind of tough community, with urban dwellers and music lovers empowering themselves through modern music, Pinoy-style camaraderie, and digital dreams?

The sultry-in-her-own-right performer said that the congestion

Much to the delight of her supporters, she capped off the main show with her viral debut solo hit, “Flower,” making its own debut on the Manila stage. For the encore, Jisoo took her performance beyond the stage, stepping down into the floor area as she sang “All Eyes On Me” and a reprise of “earthquake,” tossing small heart-shaped balls to fans along the way.

Reflecting on her time in Manila, Jisoo shared her joy in finally holding a solo fan meeting in the country.

“It’s been a while since I last came back here in Manila, and actually, it’s my first solo fan meeting,” she said. “As I arrived, I saw a lot of banners and tarpaulins—it made me happy and welcomed.”

While she admitted to feeling anxious about the event, she said the overwhelming love from her fans put her at ease.

“At first, I was nervous, but right now, having this time, I guess it was so much fun that the time just flew by. Spending time with the Blinks, I really just want to tell you how happy I am to be with all of you,” the Blackpink member stated.

meant she got to hear the hiphop playlist of her neighbors.

It was in that way that she became a fan of artists like Ron Henley

That she evolved into a rapper herself is testament to her willpower to come out of that congestion and make a name for herself without losing her identity and making use of gender to her advantage.

You’d probably be shocked by how explicit her lyrics could be. But that’s a key part of her charm. What others can only spit out during some naughty girls’ talk or when they’re alone in their bedroom—she raps with clarity and confidence.

She usually stresses the Filipino accent when rapping, and she sounds like under the influence of some fine liquor or something. But again, she does that in the name of art, and she is being herself whether you care to

listen or want to pull the plug because she’s too in-your-face.

This interesting artist does her rapping with serious preparation. She revealed, “I (would) light up an incense because it makes me feel relaxed. Then I make my coffee, journal my feelings, and work.”

Last year, Illest Morena released an album of 15 songs called “Morenita,” bannered by “Stinkalink,” with its music video including cameos from the likes of Sassa Gurl, Zae, Arkin Magalona, and Jonas Belgica

“This is brown skin domination, Southeast Asian/ Baddie from the islands, Filipino nation/ I am morenita/ I’m the goddess of the seas,” she sang on the title track, oozing with pride and command.

Her early hit “Pick Up” quickly established her persona and way of talking. The image for that single shows her in a dirty finger gesture—unapologetic and not your regular tweetums chick.

Going over her music and how she presents herself in her music videos made me say that she is a young Pinay gloriously liberated, even if somewhat overboard for a society that still embraces conservatism to a significant extent. Yet, in that sense, she is unconventional, and regardless if we agree or not, her time has come. The youth of today and currentgeneration listeners need someone like her—bold and beautiful her way. She further noted, “I am motivated to push harder into creating what I want without thinking about formulas, or what other people would say. When I made those hits, I was only expressing myself. I don’t have to try to create a hit song. I just make a song, and then I let it have its moment.”

While Illest Morena is arguably not yet a household name, it may just be a matter of time for her proven potential to one day be—as she actually deserves it—fully realized.

BEGINNING today, seasoned journalist and award-winning documentarist Howie Severino delves deep into the nation’s past and present through a blend of narrative storytelling and insightful interviews via the limited series podcast Howie Severino Presents Developed by GMA Integrated News Digital Strategy and Innovation Lab (DigiLab), Howie Severino Presents is a rebrand from GMA Integrated News’ first original and award-winning podcast, The Howie Severino Podcast, launched in 2021. Fresh episodes drop every Thursday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all GMA Integrated News’ streaming platforms.

For its first season, Howie Severino Presents: Moments in Election History features several highlights from Philippine election history. Howie centers the discussions on the 1987 Tejeros Convention, the history of women’s right to vote, and the youthful 1952 campaign of Ramon Magsaysay, particularly his hit campaign jingle “Mambo Magsaysay.”

“We want to enrich the news coverage of the election campaign by providing context, digging deep into the past to show how our elections have evolved. In a series of episodes, we will be featuring several highlights from Philippine election history,” shares Severino.

“As we prepare for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections, we at GMA Integrated News would like to open the eyes of the Filipinos to the realities of the present by unearthing the country’s rich history and culture,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso Through ‘Howie Severino Presents, we hope to continue our commitment to delivering trusted, comprehensive, and in-depth journalism in innovative ways across all platforms,” Amoroso added.

At her one-night-only Manila show, Jisoo performs some of the tracks from her EP ‘Amortage’

The Blackpink member is welcomed by thousands of Filipino Blinks inside the Big Dome

Broadcast journalist Howie Severino explores the Philippines’ election history in ‘Howie Severino Presents’

Filipina rapper Illest Morena is known for hit tracks ‘Faded’ and ‘Slow Burn’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Pambansang Muziklaban returns after four-year break

RED Horse Beer’s returned after a fouryear hiatus, crowning two emerging Filipino rock bands during its grand finals held Saturday at Paseo de Sta. Rosa in Laguna.

Batangas-based Daks Not Dead topped the LAKAS category for hardcore rock bands, while Cebu’s Interstate won the AKLAS division for alternative rock. Both bands received P500,000 cash prizes from Red Horse Beer. The event marked the culmination of a year-long nationwide competition that began in 2024, with regional preliminaries determining the 12 finalists who competed for the titles.

Interstate bassist Mark Brian Nebril said the win came as a surprise, considering the strength of the competition.

“Hindi pa rin kami makapaniwala dahil ‘yung mga nakasabay namin na competitors, napakagagaling Hindi talaga namin in-expect,” Nebril said. He added that the band, composed of Ly Unabia on vocals, Christian Patultol on guitars, and Adrienne Batiquin on drums, committed to both mental and physical preparations.

“Kinailangan talaga ng disiplina at

Cebu’s Interstate

determinasyon,” he said. Daks Not Dead credited their mentors—veteran bands tapped by Red Horse Beer—for helping them prepare for the finals.

“Malaki ang naitulong ng mga mentors namin. Lahat ng mga advice na binigay nila, sinunod lang namin

para maging 100 percent todo ‘yung maipapakita namin sa entablado,” vocalist Mat Piamonte said. Alongside bandmates Rudolf Aboloc on guitars, Ben Avelino on bass, and Ian Carreon on drums, Piamonte said the band plans to continue producing music.

“Ngayong nanalo na kami, tuloytuloy lang ang abante at pag-produce ng kanta. Sa lahat ng sumuporta sa amin, salamat. At salamat sa Pambansang Muziklaban at sa Red Horse Beer,” he added.

Thousands of rock fans gathered for the event, which also featured

The beauty that deserves a seat at the table

By Angelica Villanueva

FOR actress Kaila Estrada, beauty goes beyond appearances. Speaking at a recent event, the rising star shared her thoughts on empowerment, self-acceptance, and the evolving beauty standards that have helped redefine what it means to be a Filipina.

“For me, an empowered woman is someone who is confident, resilient, stands firm in her values, knows her worth, and faces challenges with grace,” Kaila told Manila Standard Life. She also reflected on her struggles with self-image growing up, particularly as a morena at a time when mainstream beauty standards favored lighter skin tones.

“I had certain insecurities around my skin. When I was going through puberty, of course, the pimples were really bad. And my sisters have always had amazing skin,” she admitted.

“Of the siblings, I am the morena. I took after my dad’s skin tone. Although I found other people beautiful, for some reason, when I looked at myself, I wasn’t as happy,” added Kaila. Now, the actress is using her platform to celebrate diversity in beauty. She was recently named the new face of Bare Face, a local beauty brand advocating for natural and authentic Filipino beauty. She sees her partnership with the brand as an opportunity to inspire young women to embrace their own unique looks.

“[Being the ambassador of Bare Face] means a lot to me because growing up, I didn’t think I fit the standard of beauty that was famous, popular, in a sense,” she shared.

“That makes me very proud to be here, to be part of a local brand that champions authentic Filipino beauty and is led by empowered women,” the Incognito star continued.

Kaila then acknowledged how beauty standards have shifted in recent years, creating more visibility for morena women in media and advertising.

“I’m so happy now that the beauty standards have evolved so much. A lot more people, a lot more Filipinas, are proud to be morena—and I’m one of them. It’s changed the mentality of young girls now, and I’m very happy about that,” she stated.

She credits this shift to greater representation in the entertainment industry and advertising, saying that seeing more morena women in the spotlight helped her embrace her own beauty.

“The entertainment industry and print ads play such a huge part in that. We have to be mindful of the impact that ads and TV have because they leave a lasting impression, especially

on young people,” said Kaila.

“I saw a lot more artists who were morena, so gorgeous, and constantly in the spotlight. I was able to relate to them and see myself in them,” she added.

Now, as a brand ambassador, Kaila hopes to inspire others in the same way.

“Don’t shy away from creating your seat at the table. And if you don’t feel like you have a seat at the table, bring your own chair,” she advised, encouraging young women to carve their own paths.

Bare Face, known for its commitment to inclusivity and self-love, sees Kaila as the perfect representation of its values. With her at the forefront, the brand aims to continue challenging outdated beauty standards and celebrating Filipinas of all backgrounds.

HUNDREDS of Hollywood stars including Ben

Stiller Cate Blanchett, and Cynthia Erivo have urged Donald Trump’s White House to protect film, TV, and music copyrights against big tech and artificial intelligence.

The open letter—signed by over 400 actors, directors, and artists—hits back against tech giants like Google and OpenAI, who say their AI models must be allowed to train on a vast range of copyrighted work or risk being left behind by Chinese rivals.

But “weakening copyright protections” and allowing tech giants to “exploit America’s creative and knowledge industries” would threaten “the world’s most vibrant creative economy,” says the Hollywood letter.

The US entertainment industry supports over 2.3 million jobs that generate some $230 billion in annual wages, as well as “providing the foundation for American democratic influence and soft power abroad,” it says.

The intervention comes after Trump in January signed an executive order committing to remove “unnecessary government control” of AI and boost “America’s global AI dominance.”

The White House invited companies and other interested parties to submit suggestions.

Google and OpenAI said they must be allowed to train their AI models on the widest possible range of copyrighted content, warning that rival countries could otherwise gain a dangerous advantage.

If Chinese developers “have unfettered access to data and American companies are left without fair use access, the race for AI is effectively over,” wrote OpenAI, noting China’s rapid progress with models like DeepSeek.

The Hollywood counter-letter was first sent to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy last week. Organizers said they are continuing to gather signatures. AI has become an existential concern in

Hollywood, where studios and producers are keen to explore its cost-cutting potential, but many creatives fear that its use could destroy jobs and damage the quality of content.

Artificial intelligence was a central issue in the strikes that in 2023 brought the US entertainment industry to an expensive, months-long halt. Writers and actors eventually agreed deals with studios, including strict AI protections, requiring consent and compensation if AI models train on writers’ movie scripts, or build computergenerated characters using actors’ likenesses. But the issue has returned to the fore with Trump’s election and the ever-increasing grip of major tech companies on

wins the alternative rock category at AKLAS

Batangas-based band Daks Not Dead tops the hardcore rock category at LAKAS

performances from local bands Wilabaliw, Chicosci, Greyhoundz, Razorback, and Dilaw. Former champions returned to the stage, including 2018 AKLAS Grand Champion Happy Three Friends and 2004 Grand Champion Mayonnaise who closed the show.

Hollywood actress Cate Blanchett is among Hollywood stars who have signed a letter to the White House demanding AI protections for the creative industries

Bare Face ambassador Kaila Estrada (center) poses for a photo together with the brand’s owners Eleonor Roma (left) and Arriane Reyes-Recella (right)

Actress Kaila Estrada says that she has learned to embrace her unique self

C4 LIFE

THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Angelica Villanueva

FOR young CEO

Aleah Sia, beauty should be both fun and functional. That philosophy led her to create Popique, a new homegrown beauty brand that fuses skincare and makeup with a bold, vibrant aesthetic.

“Popique is actually a combination of ‘pop’ and ‘unique.’ We’re all about embracing the sun and enhancing your natural glow,” Sia told Manila Standard Life

Unlike minimalist beauty brands that stick to a few staple products, Popique launched with 11 products from the get-go—from cleansers and toners to multi-use makeup.

“We wanted people to have a complete Popique routine. So that’s from cleansing balm to sunscreen, and then makeup,” she explained.

The brand’s manufacturing is split between China and Thailand, with its SPF products produced by one of the largest cosmetic manufacturers in the industry.

While creating the products wasn’t the biggest challenge, Sia shared that narrowing down the makeup collection was.

“We didn’t want to limit our shade range. That’s why for our face products, we immediately launched 25 shades—covering warm, cool, and even olive undertones,” continued Sia.

She also explained that Popique’s identity is deeply inspired by the Philippines’ tropical landscape.

“We have so many beautiful islands and beaches. We wanted to embrace and celebrate that. That’s why we brought the beach to Makati,” the 24-year-old owner stated.

This sunny inspiration translates into Popique’s packaging and product philosophy.

“A lot of brands go the minimalist route, but we want to stand out. We celebrate colors,” she added.

Sia designed Popique to be inclusive and beginner-friendly, particularly for Filipinos with morena skin tones.

“Our shades are tailored for Pinoy skin. And the products? You can apply them using just your fingers, and they’ll still blend nicely,” Sia stated.

When asked what her favorite is among the Popique products, she shared that it is the multi-use cream palette — a trio of blush shades in one compact.

“For P499, you get three colors that you can mix and match,” she said.

Another standout is the Kiss Me Multi-

Young entrepreneurbeautyembraces tropical inspiration

Hosts engage with attendees during Popique’s launch event, presenting the brand’s philosophy of fun, functional, and inclusive beauty

Apply Lip Balm, which doubles as makeup while providing deep hydration. At 24, Sia is no stranger to retail. While Popique is her first venture into

Summer season’s vibrant beauty experience

By Jasper Valdez

RUSTAN’S Beauty Source welcomed the start of the Pinoy summer with a splash of color through GRLPWR 2025, a vibrant celebration of beauty and self-expression held at Rustan’s Shangri-La on March 6. Now in its sixth year, the event transformed the Mandaluyong branch into an interactive hub inspired by the works of French artist Henri Matisse, known for his bold and unconventional use of color. From the moment guests stepped in, they were surrounded by striking installations and engaging displays, creating a lively and immersive atmosphere that set the tone for a fun-filled afternoon.

The event featured dedicated booths where visitors could join makeup and skincare challenges, win beauty products, and experience hands-on demos led by industry experts.

Attendees also had the chance to engage with beauty professionals, learning new techniques, product recommendations, and personalized tips for enhancing their skincare and makeup routines. The setup allowed both beauty enthusiasts and casual visitors to explore different styles while enjoying the experience.

From March 1 to 31, shoppers using a UnionBank card can earn Rustan’s eGCs on select purchases. Meanwhile, Beauty Addict members who spend P30,000 between March 1 and April 30 will receive an Aranáz Theresa Mini Bag. A luxury getaway is also up for grabs—every P5,000 spent from March 1 to May 31 earns a chance to win a four-day, three-night stay at Banwa Private Island. Additionally, Beauty Addict members can earn fi ve times the usual reward points until March 31, making it an ideal time to stock up on beauty essentials.

Popique showcases its wide range of multi-use beauty products

beauty, she comes from a fashion business background. But she sees this as only the beginning. “I don’t think this is the height of my career yet. I’m just getting started,” she said. For now, Popique is available on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop, with plans to expand to malls soon.

UNBEKNOWNST to most people, cervical cancer, once a leading cause of death among women, is one of the only two preventable cancers thanks to the HPV vaccine. This life-saving vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer.

HPV can also cause other diseases such as anal cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, penile cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, and genital warts.

If you’re a woman who cares about her health and her future, understanding the importance of HPV prevention including vaccination and screening, and knowing where to access it is crucial.

This article will guide you through the vaccination and screening process and empower you to take a proactive step towards a cervical cancer-free life. HPV is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact. While most infections clear on their own, persistent high-risk types can lead to cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine helps prevent these infections, significantly lowering the risk of the disease. Getting vaccinated is a proactive step toward protecting your health.

Busy women can easily access the HPV vaccine through local pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Watsons, which offer daily vaccination schedules in select branches. Hospitals and clinics, especially those with ob-gyne departments, also provide the vaccine, while pediatricians can administer it to minors with parental consent.

Specialized women’s clinics, such as Kindred, and Ayala Healthway VaxHub offer vaccinations in supportive settings. Community health centers and public schools provide free HPV vaccines under the government’s immunization program for students aged 9 to 14, while adults can check their local centers. Protecting yourself from cervical cancer is a priority—talk to your healthcare provider to learn more and get vaccinated. Take the next step today and talk to your doctor about the HPV vaccine. Your health is worth it. To learn more about how you can protect yourself from HPV and cervical cancer, visit https:// guardagainsthpv.ph/ today. Protect yourself: Here’s where you can get HPV vaccine today

The newly launched beauty brand Popique introduces its tropical-inspired makeup and skincare line

Rustan’s The Beauty Source launched its annual