By Maricel V. Cruz and Ram Superable
THE House of Representatives yesterday formally served the Office of the Vice President (OVP) the Entry
with Motion to Issue Summons, officially notifying Vice President Sara Duterte of the impeachment proceedings initiated against her.
The motion was received by the Senate on March 24, and a copy was
By Rachelle Tonelada, Charles Dantes and Ram Superable
By Rio N. Araja
TTHE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
HE International Criminal Court (ICC) has moved forward with its case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte by disclosing 181 pieces of evidence to his legal defense team .
In a three-page communication, the first batch of evidence, labeled as “Pre-Confirmation INCRIM package 001” and classified as “confidential,” was submitted by ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan to the pre-trial chamber.
On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma.
“These items comprise the material cited in the Warrant of Arrest for Mr Rodrigo Roa Duterte, with the exception of those items notified to the Chamber and the Defence in the Prosecution’s related application under regulation 35 of the Regulations of the Court, for which the disclosure deadline has been extended by the Chamber,” the document read.
While specific details of the evidence remain undisclosed, the ICC prosecutor confirmed that the materials are directly linked to the warrant of arrest issued against Duterte.
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.
By Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz
SENATOR Imee Marcos yesterday announced her withdrawal from the administration-backed coalition, Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, a decision which she said was prompted by circumstances surrounding the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.
Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in
By Rio N. Araja
THE legal counsel of Chinese
"I cannot stand on the same campaign platform as the rest of the Alyansa. As I have stated from the outset of the election period, I will continue to maintain my independence," she said in a statement. Senator Marcos had been very vocal about her misgivings on how her brother’s administration handled the
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.
By Rex Espiritu
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
we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue
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.
By Charles Dantes
Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.
MALACAÑANG assured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) on Wednesday that the government has no plans to revoke their tax privileges.
The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.
During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile earlier warned those planning to mount a “zero remittance week” to protest ex-president Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest and said the move could cost overseas Filipino workers their tax perks.
The pro-Duterte group Maisug Croatia in Europe announced a
THE Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s strong record and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo in a speech delivered at the UN General Assembly in
zero-remittance campaign from March 28 to April 4 to demand the return of Duterte to the Philippines.
Enrile said such activities could trigger government countermeasures, raising concerns about the possible suspension of OFW tax exemptions.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro however said the government remains committed to supporting OFWs, not burdening them.
"The government helps OFWs. We are not against them,"
CHINA poses the top threat to American interests and security globally and is making "steady" progress towards having the ability to seize the self-ruled island of Taiwan, an annual US intelligence report warned Tuesday.
Beijing's "coercive pressure" against Taiwan and "wide-ranging cyber operations against US targets" were indicators of its growing threat to US national security, said the Annual Threat Assessment by the intelligence community.
"China presents the most comprehensive and robust military threat to US national security," the report said.
Earlier, on March 14, ICC PreTrial Chamber I Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc directed the prosecutor to begin disclosing the evidence that formed the basis of the arrest warrant and to complete the process within seven days.
This step is part of the broader evidence disclosure process, which ensures that the suspect is “informed of the evidence on which the prosecution intends to rely” ahead of the confirmation of charges hearing on September 23.
The global tribunal also assured that it remains committed to pursuing justice for the victims of the Duterte administration’s bloody “war on drugs” despite a wave of online trolling from supporters of the detained former president.
In an interview with GMA Integrated News, ICC spokesperson Dr. Fadi El Abdallah addressed the reported spamming and trolling directed at ICC judges, emphasizing that the court remains unfazed.
“We are all focused on only one thing, which is delivering justice in the
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furnished to the Vice President by House Secretariat Staff at her office address on the 11th Floor of Robinsons Cybergate Plaza, Mandaluyong City.
The OVP received the documents at 11:20 a.m. on Wednesday, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco’s office disclosed. Meanwhile, the House prosecution team is ramping up preparations for the impending impeachment trial, meeting in small groups to focus on the assigned Articles of Impeachment. House prosecutor Batangas 2nd
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is to prepare for eventual occupation or preparation of the land that will be awarded through a presidential proclamation declaring Grande Island (and) Chiquita Island as military reservations," PN spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said in an interview with reporters Tuesday.
He did not give details on when talks on designating these islands as military reservations started.
These islands, he said, need to be declared as military reservations due to their proximity to Subic Bay whose "natural layout" provides a safe harbor for Navy ships using the vital waterway.
A runway also exists in the Subic Bay area that can be used by Philippine aircraft.
Trinidad, meanwhile, said the move has nothing to do with the arrest of six foreign nationals and two Filipinos found conducting illegal activities in Grande Island last March 13.
"The foreign nationals that were arrested on Grande Island were there even before the talks of having (the island declared) as a naval reservation," Trinidad said.
Grande Island, located in Subic Bay, is a strategic vantage point with a clear view of key sea lanes in the West Philippine Sea, including Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal).
The Department of National Defense (DND) earlier said the suspects' illegal activities could include suspected espionage and kidnapping activities related to Philippine offshore gaming operators, where some foreign nation-
The report provides an overview of the collective insights of top US intelligence agencies about the security threats to the US posed by foreign nations and criminal organizations.
It warned that Beijing would keep expanding its "coercive and subversive malign influence activities" to weaken the US internally and globally.
best conditions for the victims and to ensure that the truth is revealed about the guilt or innocence of any person who is accused,” Abdallah said.
Earlier, reports surfaced that Duterte loyalists have been spamming the social media accounts of Judge Motoc, including her LinkedIn profile.
Human rights lawyer Kristina Conti, who represents victims of the drug war at the ICC, warned that such actions could backfire. She pointed out that any attempt to intimidate ICC prosecutors and judges could lead to additional charges under the Rome Statute.
“There is already a fifth case being tried at the ICC, involving offenses against the administration of justice (Article 70, Rome Statute). Those attacking the court, the prosecutor, and/or the judges should be careful, as Duterte’s cases might increase,” Conti said.
As this developed, Malacañang defended the ICC’s decision to proceed with its investigation into the previous administration’s war on drugs, emphasizing that the former government failed to fulfill its commitment to conduct an independent probe.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro responded to reports that supporters
District Rep. Gerville Luistro said preparations for the trial are nearly done.
“Those assigned to Article 1 are in one group, those working on Article 2 are in another… so forth and so on. In other words, we seldom or rarely meet as a team. Instead, we met by the article team. And since I am assigned to Article 2 in the confidential funds, I work with the rest of the “congs” [lawmakers] who are assigned to confidential funds as well," she said in a mixture of Filipino and English.
As this developed, House prosecutors failed in their bid to convince Senate President and Impeachment Court Presiding Officer Francis “Chiz” Escudero to issue a writ of summons to Duterte, which would
als are occupying Grande Island under the guise of private enterprises.
The conversion of the Grande and Chiquita Islands as military reservations would help secure the operations of the Subic Special Economic and Freeport Zone, including the Riviera Wharf and the Subic Bay International Airport.
The DND said this is in line with the ongoing development of a naval operating base in Subic which seeks to strengthen and maintain the Philippines' strategic presence along the western seaboard.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) earlier announced the arrest of the suspects. In a press briefing, NBI Deputy Director Ferdinand Lavin said the agency remains vigilant of other groups conducting spying activities in the country.
"We are not discounting any possibility that there may be other groups that are doing their own rounds of gathering vital pieces of information and providing it to their counterparts. This is very disturbing and getting very alarming to all of us," he said.
Lavin added that NBI Director Jaime Santiago, who personally led the arrest, is urging the public to continue reporting and cooperating with authorities on matters affecting peace and national security.
Santiago stressed that the bureau remains steadfast in strengthening efforts to detect, prevent, and respond to espionage activities in order to safeguard national security.
The Chinese nationals were identified as He Peng a.k.a. Nan Ke, Xu Xining, Ye Tianwu a.k.a Qui Feng/Quing Feng, Ye Xiaocan, Diack Ang, and Su Anlong. Melvin Aguillon, a Filipino bodyguard, was also arrested for possession of an unregistered firearm.
And the Chinese government would seek to counter what it sees as a "USled campaign to tarnish Beijing's global relations and overthrow" the Chinese Communist Party, the report said.
Beijing's military is gearing up to challenge US operations in the Pacific and "making steady but uneven progress on capabilities it would use in an attempt to seize Taiwan," it assessed.
But, it said, the Chinese leadership would seek to reduce tensions with the United States as it seeks to "protects its core interests, and buy time to strengthen its position."
China was more "cautious" than Russia, Iran and North Korea—other
of Duterte called to let local courts handle the investigation.
She said the ICC's decision stemmed from Duterte's own administration’s shortcomings.
"The ICC prosecutors decided to proceed with their investigation even before President Marcos assumed office because the former administration did not follow through on its promise to conduct a credible and independent investigation," Castro said.
She cited instances where Duterte publicly undermined domestic investigations, referencing the case of Police Superintendent Marvin Marcos.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) initially recommended multiple murder charges in the killing of Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr., but Castro noted that Duterte intervened.
"Despite the NBI’s findings of murder, former President Duterte stated, ‘I will not allow these guys to go to prison.’ Following that pronouncement, the charges were downgraded to homicide," Castro said.
She argued that while the country’s judicial system functions effectively for ordinary citizens, it failed to ensure accountability at the highest levels during the Duterte administration.
have constrained her to respond to the Verified Complaint for Impeachment within ten days from receipt.
On Wednesday, Escudero said that strict adherence to legal procedures outweighs any push for untested methods, as he dismissed the House prosecutors’ attempt to summon the Vice President for impeachment proceedings.
"It cannot legally be done. It’s not allowed because the Senate is not in session. And that ‘forthwith,’ aren’t they tired of that already?" he said.
"Forthwith was defined by US authorities to mean a reasonable time, not immediately," the Senate chief added.
Escudero maintained that Senate rules only allow a writ of summons
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Castro said. "Chief Legal Counsel Enrile was simply reminding them of the assistance they receive from the government. We will not suppress their rights or decisions regarding their remittances, as long as they follow the law," she added.
When asked whether President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had been briefed on the matter, Castro confirmed his awareness but clarified that no legal action was being considered.
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arrest and subsequent surrender of Duterte to the International Criminal Court at The Hague, Netherlands. She also criticized administration officials’ supposed lack of transparency over the arrest, suggesting that the constant use of executive privilege and the subjudice rule during Senate hearings obstructed the truth.
"Beyond their constant narrative that the Philippines was simply complying with its international commitments, a deliberate effort to obscure the truth only gave rise to ever greater suspicion that the Constitution may have been disregarded and our sovereignty diminished by the arrest," she said.
The senator reiterated her belief that the sovereignty of the Philippines and the pursuit of true justice must take priority over political alliances.
"As will be soon discussed in my
key US adversaries—about appearing "too aggressive and disruptive."
And it said that the autocratic style of President Xi Jinping—China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong— was affecting its ability to respond to challenges.
"Xi's focus on security and stability... and securing other leaders' personal loyalty to him is undermining China's ability to solve complex domestic problems and will impede Beijing's global leverage," the report found.
Beijing called the report "biased" and accused it of "exaggerating the China threat" on Wednesday.
"The US publishes these kinds of ir-
For his part, Senate President Francis Escudero clarified that the case filed at the ICC against Duterte was initiated by Filipino citizens, not foreign nationals.
"I don’t see any takeover of jurisdiction from the courts in the Philippines regarding this issue," he said.
"And according to the law in force in our country, which was also cited during the hearing, any accused person whether Filipino or foreigner, can be brought to the International Court concerning Crimes Against Humanity committed by individuals," the senate chief added.
Escudero pointed out that no foreign entities interfered in the decision to take the case to the ICC.
He emphasized that Filipinos made the decision to pursue the case, citing Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla’s statements to support this point.
Meanwhile, former Senator Gringo Honasan and other personalities launched a signature campaign to pressure the ICC into sending Duterte back to the Philippines.
In a press briefing on Wednesday, the senatorial candidate said the signatures will be gathered physically and through social media.
once the chamber is officially in session, drawing a line between impeachment trials and regular legislative inquiries.
Earlier, Rep. Marcelino Libanan of the 4Ps Party-List argued that since the Senate held an inquiry into the possible arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte during its break, prosecutors believed impeachment hearings could also proceed.
However, Escudero disagreed, stating that while the House can hold hearings during recess, the Senate’s impeachment process demands more stringent protocols. He said the Senate would formally address the motion when the session resumes, suggesting prosecutors were already aware of the procedural limits.
"The President knows about this issue, especially after Chief Legal Counsel Enrile's remarks. However, there are no legal moves at the moment because we trust that OFWs will assess the situation on their own," Castro said.
OFWs contribute significantly to the Philippine economy through their remittances, which amounted to $38.34 billion in 2024, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Their tax privileges are part of the government's long-standing support for overseas workers, recognizing their economic contributions.
preliminary findings, clearly there were actions taken by the administration which ran counter to my ideals and principles," Marcos said. Her office later confirmed that her departure from the coalition was official and final.
In response, the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas said it “respects” Marcos' decision to withdraw from the administration senatorial slate.
"We respect Senator Imee’s decision. We wish her luck in the campaign," Navotas City Rep. Tobias Tiangco, Alyansa's campaign manager, said.
On Saturday, the senator was excluded from President Marcos' endorsement speech at a Laguna campaign rally, where he urged the voting public to support only 11 candidates instead of the original 12 in the slate.
This sparked speculation that the lady senator was already on her way out of the administration slate.
responsible and biased reports year after year," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a regular press briefing.
"We have no intention of surpassing anyone or replacing anyone," he said. US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told a Senate hearing Tuesday that "China is our most capable strategic competitor" based on current intelligence.
In addition to China, the assessment analyzed threats to the United States posed by Russia, North Korea, Iran and "non-state transnational criminals," including Mexican drug cartels and Islamic extremist groups.
‘Lawyer of last resort’ Estelito Mendoza, 95
By Pot Chavez
FORMER Solicitor General Estelito
"Titong" Mendoza, dubbed as "Attorney of Last Resort" and regarded as one of the country's best legal minds, passed away yesterday at the age of 95.
"I'm a lawyer. I don't choose what cases I have. Those on the wrong side are most deserving of having lawyers. I'm just doing my job and that's what I have been trained for. I find great satisfaction performing my duty because I contribute to the administration of justice. I can assure you that I win my cases because I work hard," said Mendoza in a 2010 interview with GMA News Online.
Mendoza served as chief counsel of former President Joseph Estrada during his impeachment trial in 2000. He was recently tapped to represent Vice President Sara Duterte in her confidential funds cases.
Mendoza served as a member of the Board of Directors in San Miguel Corporation (SMC) and the Philippine National Bank (PNB).
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile described Mendoza as "one of the best, if not the best lawyer" he met and worked with.
"Today, I lost a very, very dear friend, the complete, brilliant, luminary lawyer...I extended my condolences to his wife , Rosy, and family. I was the godfather to one of his daughters. May he find eternal peace with God in heaven," said Enrile in his social media post. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro described Mendoza as one of the country's greatest lawyers.
"I had the honor of working in his law firm as an Associate Attorney in the 80s and 90s. It was because of his mentorship that I learned the ways of the law, and especially standing up for what is right for the Filipino people," he said. Meanwhile, lawyer Jesus Falcis noted that many lawyers would 'lionize and glorify' Mendoza.
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the public of “the shift of wind direction from northeasterly to easterly due to the establishment of the highpressure area over the Northwestern Pacific.”
“[This] is already signifying the termination of the northeast monsoon in most parts of the country and the start of the dry season,” the agency said.
PAGASA forecasts temperatures to rise to 38-40 degrees in Metro Manila today and tomorrow, while the highest is expected at 47 degrees in Dagupan City, in Pangasinan.
Temperatures ranging from 40-43 degrees are forecast in Tuguegarao, Cagayan, Iba, Zambales, Cubi Point in Subic Bay, Olongapo, San Ildefonso, Bulacan, Virac Catanduanes, and Masbate City. Baguio City and neighboring La Trinidad, Benguet, however are forecast to have 25-28 degrees temperatures.
Despite this, PAGASA noted that areas in the extreme Northern Luzon may still experience occasional northeasterly winds.
“With this development, the dayto-day weather across the country will gradually become warmer, though isolated thunderstorms are also likely to occur,” according to the weather bureau.
Makati warns firms against misrepresentation
THE Makati City government has issued a stern warning to businesses misrepresenting their operations, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy to protect legitimate businesses.
“Makati will exercise zero tolerance for these businesses. We are determined to protect the interests of legitimate businesses that keep our economy strong and stable,” stated Mayor Abigail Binay.
The city’s Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) recently closed Flying Future Services, Inc., an IT company found illegally conducting offshore gaming operations, highlighting the city’s commitment to enforcing regulations.
The closure order, issued under the Revised Makati Revenue Code, carries penalties including imprisonment and fines. Joel E. Zurbano
SC says all OFWs are covered by SSS
ALL Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) must be covered by the Social Security System (SSS), as stipulated in the Social Security Act of 2018, reinforcing the necessity of social security protection for every Filipino worker, the Supreme Court (SC) said.
In the case of Migrante International, et al. v. Social Security System, the SC En Banc affirmed the right of all OFWs, both land-based and seabased, to social security coverage, highlighting the unique challenges they face, such as family separation and adverse working conditions.
The High Tribunal referenced Republic Act 11199, which mandates SSS coverage for all Filipino workers, including OFWs, to provide protection against disability, sickness, maternity, old age, death, and income loss, thereby ensuring financial stability for workers and their beneficiaries during unforeseen difficulties. Pot Chavez
Maguindanao poll exec, wife killed in ambush
COTABATO CITY—Municipal Elections Officer Bai Maceda Lidasan-Abo and her husband, Jojo Abo, were killed in an ambush in Barangay Makir, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Wednesday morning. Their white Fortuner was targeted by armed men, who opened fire, resulting in both their deaths.
Lidasan-Abo was declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital, while her husband, who was driving, died while being transported for medical attention. Reports indicate that Abo attempted to evade the ambush by steering the vehicle off the road, which ultimately led to the car running aground.
The Abo couple was en route to Lidasan-Abo’s office when they were ambushed. Nash B. Maulana
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has rejected calls to abolish the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), emphasizing its success in reducing the presence of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said Mr. Marcos made his position clear following calls from groups to dissolve the task force.
The President, who also serves as chairman of the NTF-ELCAC, said its
efforts have significantly weakened the communist insurgency. “I’m encouraged by the reports. Our efforts are bearing fruit. It has been successful, and we need to continue to invest in its success,” President Marcos said.
Malaya echoed the President’s sentiments, highlighting the NTF-ELCAC’s accomplishments. “The facts speak for themselves. The NTF-ELCAC has dealt a heavy blow to the CPP-NPA-NDF, leaving the insurgency at its lowest point in more than 50 years,” Malaya said. Government data shows that from 89 guerrilla fronts at the time of the task force’s formation, only one remains, classified as a weakened front in Camarines Sur. Malaya said it is expected to be dismantled within the year. According to Malaya, there are approximately 1,050 remaining NPA members, who are described as scat-
By Rachelle Tonelada
REELECTIONIST
Christopher
“Bong” Go received a significant boost in the March pre-election survey conducted by Stratbase Consultancy, tying with Erwin Tulfo, who had consistently led in previous
months, according to Social Weather Stations (SWS).
The survey, conducted from March 15 to 20—shortly after former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest warrant was issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC)—showed Go and Tulfo leading the Senate race with 42% of
By Ram Superable
SENATE President Francis Escudero on Wednesday said lawmakers are prioritizing legislative work as the 19th Congress nears its adjournment.
“We still have a few bills we are pushing to complete before the 19th Congress ends. Among these is the Right of Way Law to speed up the implementation of infrastructure projects,” he said. Escudero also highlighted the 99-year lease bill, which seeks to address foreign land ownership concerns by allowing long-term leases.
Other key measures include extensions for the charters of the National Housing Authority (NHA), Develop -
ment Bank of the Philippines (DBP), and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), which are set to expire this year.
He expressed hope these bills would pass before Congress adjourns in two weeks.
“The other proposals being pushed by individual lawmakers will, of course, also be considered. I am fully confident that we can handle it, after all, we’re paid to do the work,” he said. Escudero said the Senate still needs to confirm several key officials, including nominees for the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
voter preference each.
Both candidates top the list of 12 possible winners in the 2025 senatorial elections. Meanwhile, the administrationbacked ‘Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas’ dominated the majority of the 12 spots. Ben Tulfo and Tito Sotto tied for
3rd-4th place with 34% each, followed by Lito Lapid in 5th place with 33%.
Bong Revilla secured 6th place with 32%. Pia Cayetano and Ping Lacson tied for 7th-8th place with 31% each, while Bato Dela Rosa ranked 9th with 30%. Willie Revillame placed 10th with 28%.
tered and isolated. Government reports highlight a 98.88% accomplishment rate in dismantling guerrilla fronts. Malaya attributed the decline of the insurgency to the deaths of key leaders such as Jose Maria Sison, Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, and Myrna Sularte, along with intensified military and police operations. Socioeconomic investments through the Barangay Development Program and sustained localized peace talks have also played a significant role. Malaya further credits the task force’s anti-terror and anti-radicalization programs with reducing recruitment in schools and universities.
Lawmakers: ‘No funds for us from sorties’
By Maricel V. Cruz
LAWMAKERS denied claims made by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong that members of the House of Representatives allegedly receive social amelioration funds when they join Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez in out-of-town engagements.
“In my experience, I have not seen anything like that and I have not experienced anything like that,” House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan said.
Libanan disputed Magalong’s assertion that the 2025 national budget was being used as an “election fund,” saying the release of government funds is not controlled by politicians like social welfare programs AKAP, AICS, and TUPAD.
“In the distribution of social services, politicians are not allowed to go there. That is strictly implemented now. Our fund is for the repair of our country and what I see here is that we just do our duties.”
BOYS WILL BE BOYS. Kids cavort at the Manila Bay behind the Quirino Grandstand amid the sweltering heat. PAGASA has announced the start of summer which translates to a dry season. Norman Cruz
By Pot Chavez
JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday said deportation may be another legal option for the Philippines to take custody of dismissed Negros Oriental lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Jr. who has sought refuge in Timor Leste.
Remulla made the statement following a decision by Timor Leste’s Court of Appeals to reverse its previous approval for Teves’ repatriation to the Philippines.
“We are filing an MR (motion for
reconsideration), but there are other branches of government moving especially that there were commitments made before. This matter is just a very simple matter of an undocumented Fili-
By Joel E. Zurbano
PROTESTERS , on their third day of a transportation strike against the government’s public transport modernization program, have blocked traffic at the intersection of Connecticut Street and Epifanio de los Santos Ave. in San Juan City.
In retaliation, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) issued citation tickets to at least 15 public utility vehicles belonging to members of the Malayang Alyansa ng Bus Employees at Laborers (Manibela).
Meanwhile, Manibela said it is planning to extend its transport strike until Friday instead of the original three days.
MMDA chairman Romando Artes emphasized that while the government respects every citizen’s right to free expression, it must be exercised peacefully and without causing inconvenience to others.
The 15 public utility jeepneys (PUJs) received traffic violation tickets for illegal parking and obstruction near the Department of Transportation (DOTr) building on Ortigas Ave., Mancdaluyong City. The MMDA clarified that Connecticut Street is part of the Mabuhay lanes, which serve as alternative routes to help ease traffic on EDSA and other major roads in Metro Manila.
By Vince Lopez
NBP visitor nabbed for shabu possession
THE Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) thwarted yesterday an attempt by a female visitor to smuggle illegal drugs into the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City. BuCor director general Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said the suspect, Rovelyn Fabillar who was visiting inmate Lester Martin Ramos, was apprehended after prison guards found suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) concealed in her private part.
The contraband was contained in a condom wrapped with a transparent plastic.
Catapang said the prohibited substance was discovered during a routine security inspection of visitors at the maximum security compound of the NBP.
Guimaras rolls out biz, youth empowerment
THE island province of Guimaras has taken a significant step toward empowering the youth and local businesses with the launch of its first innovation hub under Gov. JC Rahman Nava’s Kabataan FIRST development program.
pino who is accused of a crime to be returned to the country,” Remulla told reporters.
“For them to go into certain matters that are intrinsically local to us is a big stretch,” he added.
The secretary said it would not be pleasant for Timor Leste because it is applying for membership the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and the Philippines is one of the founding fathers of the Asean, he said.
Teves’ passport has been cancelled, and all the Timor Leste government has
to do is to deport Teves, Remulla said.
Teves is facing multiple murder cases before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 51 in relation to the killing of Gov. Roel Degamo and several others on March 4, 2023. Later, he applied for political asylum in Timor Leste, but was later placed under house arrest.
In February, the Philippine National Police recommended the inclusion of his brother, former Negros Oriental Governor Pryde Henry Teves in the complaints.
JAIL VISITOR GETS JAILED.
Jail guards confront a female visitor at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City after an X-ray examination showed she was concealing shabu in her private part.
The initiative aims to foster creativity, entrepreneurship, and collaboration among young people, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and other community members.
The Kabataan FIRST Innovation Hub, based at the GTIC building in San Miguel, Jordan, offers essential services such as training, coaching, access to business resource information, and business-to-business matching.
The hub is envisioned to be a dynamic space where young entrepreneurs, investors, educators, and students can exchange ideas and develop innovative solutions for business and community challenges. Caloy Lozada
QC viral cop to undergo neuropsychiatric exam
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday said the policeman-vlogger facing multiple charges for his social media posts in connection with the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte on orders of the ICC will undergo a neuropsychiatric exam.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said Pat. Francis Steve Fontillas was facing administrative charges including grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, aside from a criminal case for inciting to sedition. The complaints were filed before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.
“He will undergo a neuropsychiatric examination to check and examine his current mental status,” Fajardo said in a virtual press conference.
By Vito Barcelo
BUREAU of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has ordered the relief of seven immigration officers allegedly linked to the illegal departure for Myanmar of Filipino workers who were victims of trafficking.
Viado said the relieved personnel,
assigned at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3, are under investigation following reports linking them to the illegal departure of trafficking victims who were repatriated on March 25.
“If found to have assisted the victims, said employees face cases before the Department of Justice,” Viado said.
The victims arrived in Manila on board a Philippine Airlines flight from Bangkok, Thailand after being rescued by the Philippine government from online scamming syndicates in Myanmar.
Viado admitted that even with stricter measures, it is difficult to identify trafficking victims at airports because many of these passengers come from
affluent families and disguised themselves as regular tourists.
In 2024, the BI intercepted a total of 1,093 victims of human trafficking. Most of these people were referred to the Inter-agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) for investigation and filing of cases against their recruiters.
IT WAS mission accomplished for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) who rescued six seamen and recovered the bodies of two fatalities in a twovessel collision on Tuesday off Maasim, Sarangani province.
The PCG deployed four boats carrying rescue divers and response teams to conduct a search and rescue (SAR) operation following the collision of a Philippine flagged-tugboat M/TUG Sadong 33 and a Panamanian-flagged vessel off Maasim.
The tugboat had eight crew on board when the incident occurred. Six of the victims were rescued but their captain and a seventh crewman died in the mishap.
PCG medical personnel provided health check-
ups to the survivors and confirmed that they were all in good physical condition.
The initial oil spill assessment of the PCG marine environmental protection personnel yielded negative results. However, oil spill booms have already been laid out to ensure the protection of the marine environment and safety of nearby coastal communities.
PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, directed his men in Southern Mindanao to coordinate with Harbor Star Salvage Company for the salvage of M/Tug Sadong 33 and the immediate conduct of a Maritime Casualty Investigation (MCI).
Gavan also instructed his legal officers to handle the filing of appropriate charges against the master and crew of the Panamanian vessel MV Universe Kiza.
I COULD not await developments between Monday and Wednesday in the fast-paced events happening in the country, so I filed this article early Monday, just before leaving on a quick trip. Last week, we had another dose of the inquisitorial proceedings in the HoR where McCarthy look-alikes bamboozled social media purveyors of “fake” news by their own narrow definition of what is fake, what is true, and what is conjecture as against opinion.
How I wish these inquisitors would no longer be in the HoR, or anywhere else in our political firmament after June 30 this year. They make your blood curl at the outlandish brow-beating they give resource persons. A pox on their political houses.
They use “branding” irons to charge citizens whose taxes support their lavish lifestyles, calling them “liars” who must simplify their responses to a “yes or no” under pain of contempt and detention. It makes you wish the bad old days of martial law were back. At least you need not suffer congressional investigations, and only a few “enemies of the State” were subjected to military interrogation far from the public eye.
***
But branding iron aside, this article is about another kind of “branding,” the national kind. Whether it is about “LOVE the Philippines” as national brand or having more “fun” in our islands, or whether ours is a “broke-down” place, as one visiting movie actor once commented, branding is such an important matter, be it about a product like Jollibee or a country called the Philippines.
Marshall McLuhan once famously wrote about the medium being the message, where people “tend to focus on the obvious, which is the content…but as society’s values, norms and ways of doing things change because of technology…we realize the social implications of the medium.”
As much as societal norms and values have changed through generations, how we pine for those good old days when there was no cellphone, no internet, and no social media, where news purveyors were confined to what are now referred to as “legacy media”--- newspapers, radio and TV.
Then we need not bother to “factcheck” because we presumed that the media would print or broadcast what was true, not necessarily the good and the beautiful. ***
Which brings me to the innards of the current corridors of power, where those who are in charge of palace communications have had four changes in charge within less than half of the president’s term.
Let’s talk about the latest.
Apparently, the president was in a huddle with an old hand in advertising and political marketing, when he confided that he indeed had problems about
his communications.
Unfortunately, it was not a one-onone huddle, as is the rote in Malacanang, where some people are always in attendance as witnesses, or, more succinctly, as needed by the president for instructions or guidance.
But an undersecretary recorded the conversation in her cellphone, and later sent it around, thus getting the attention of her immediate boss, who was downcast at the president’s observation about his “communications.”
We wish former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte a very happy birthday, despite all the trials and tribulations he faces in the sunset of his life
Sensitive to the president’s remark before the marketing guru, the secretary resigned forthwith. That is of course in character, as looking back at his government career, he flits in and out from one superior to another. Still, how relieved he must feel these days.
Moving on, whispers in the corridors of power are now speculating on the actions of another undersecretary, a female Harry Roque 2.0 who has appointed herself spokesperson sans official designation, with her superior hardly seen or heard.
Another changing of the battalion head, rather, the division, because the agency is overloaded with so many in its employ (Musk would have chopped it off to a 10th or mercifully a 5th of its personnel compliment) in the offing?
***
Though Pampanga’s cuisine has its undoubted merits, naming it the country’s culinary capital is unfair branding, and the president himself said so in vetoing legislation that gives it primus and not even inter pares.
I prefer Bulakeno and Malabon cuisine as it is less oily and less sweet than Pampango food, just as the incarcerated Digong would prefer his “inun-unan” and fried saba to be so elevated in the pantheon of Filipino cuisine.
To each his own, the president is actually saying, just as Timor Leste has shown the Philippines in an “up yours” judicial action that it understands sovereignty better.
***
On his 80th milestone tomorrow, though in a far-away land where the sun hardly peeps and the air is damp and cold, we wish former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte a very happy birthday, despite all the trials and tribulations he faces in the sunset of his life.
THAT recent traffic accident at the NLEX Marilao interchange bridge should not happen at all in our freeways. Considering that motorists are paying good money which by the way keeps on increasing, they certainly deserve a lot better.
But perhaps that incident is another eye opener because what happened further exposed the weaknesses of our freeway system in management standards, engineering, and the kind of drivers we have.
One thing is our freeway system is not yet up to international standards and cannot be compared to freeways in more developed countries like Japan or Germany.
It is still very basic characterized by the lack of more modern and effective electronic warning devices strategically placed along the freeway to make freeway driving safe and convenient.
People may not realize it but the Marilao Interchange Bridge was constructed in 1968 and therefore should have been replaced or at the very least
been retrofitted because of the very heavy vehicles that now use the road. Lack of foresight maybe?
The traffic gridlock that resulted was very poorly managed due in part to the lack of these modern electronic warn-
What the few devices are currently doing is simply warning of traffic congestion ahead which is not enough
ing systems.
Since two lanes of the southbound lanes were initially used by the northbound vehicles, the formation of two lanes should have started about three kilometers before the problem area and not right before it. And because of lack of discipline among the motorists, the gridlock became worse.
THE ‘Lady Justice’ statue stands as a powerful symbol of justice, often depicted as a blindfolded woman holding scales and a sword.
This imagery represents the principle that justice is impartial and blind to social status, wealth, or power. The statue’s blindfold also signifies objectivity, while the scales represent the weighing of evidence and fairness in judgment.
The sword symbolizes the enforcement of justice and the authority of the law.
In the case of our judicial system, Lady Justice may be blind, but she does not forget, even after 25 years.
Case in point is that after twoand-a half-decades, former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways have been sentenced to more than 300 years in prison for multiple counts of graft and estafa.
The cases filed against the former public works officials had to do with the fictitious repair of the agency’s service vehicles from 2000 to 2001.
In a 122-page decision promulgated on March 14, the Sandiganbayan Seventh Division found a former assistant director of the agency guilty of 22 counts of graft under Republic Act 3019 and 22 counts of the complex crime of estafa through falsification of public documents under the Revised Penal
A lot of the people using our freeways unfortunately still do not know how to use the system properly.
This goes for both owner driven vehicles and public utility drivers of buses and trucks. This is where the electronic devices along the freeway can help keep traffic moving efficiently.
Unfortunately, this seems to be a low priority area for our freeway operators. What they are prioritizing is the modernization of their collection system which is now up to international standards.
The Marilao traffic incident is also turning out to be like the flooding that took place at the Tulaoc Bridge in San Simon, Pampanga about a year ago that caused several kilometers of gridlock lasting about two weeks.
Since our freeways are elevated, flooding should not be a problem at all but it is obvious the freeway operator failed to anticipate the problem and, up to this time, not much has been done in
Code.
Also convicted were a former DPWH accountant, fiscal controller and three supply officers, along with two private respondents.
It is true that justice delayed is justice denied, but it appears, in this particular case, not all the time
The Seventh Division sentenced the former DPWH officials and the private respondents to up to eight years in prison for each count of graft, with the accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding public office. They were also ordered to pay a fine of P5,000 for each count of the offense.
For the estafa complaint, the former DPWH officials and the private respondents were sentenced to up to 10 years in prison. They were also ordered to jointly pay the government P1.9 million in civil liability.
the area near the flooded portion. Will it happen again? We will just have to wait for the coming rainy season to see what happens.
But right now, just a minor traffic situation is enough to bring freeway traffic to a crawl for a couple of hours because it takes time for the freeway traffic personnel to get to the scene to direct traffic the old fashioned way.
It should no longer be this way because there are modern tools that freeway operators can use to make freeway driving more convenient. Unfortunately this is not their primary focus.
What they are doing is modernizing and improving their collection system by using RFIDs which is commendable.
But if only they will include the modernization of their traffic operation centers and also install more state of the art electronic signaling system, freeway driving would be truly safer and convenient for paying motorists. Currently, it is always the motorist
With their conviction for multiple counts of the offenses, the former DPWH officials were meted up to 300 years in prison.
The country’s penal justice system, however, limits the maximum period of imprisonment for a felony to 40 years, as provided under Article 70 of the Revised Penal Code.
The cases were filed by the Office of the Ombudsman in 2013 over the “ghost” repairs of DPWH service vehicles and the fictitious procurement of car spare parts.
The Ombudsman probe showed that 4,406 checks amounting to P82.322 million were issued as payments for the supposed repairs of vehicles and purchase of car spare parts using fictitious receipts and other reimbursement documents.
“The conspiracy of the defendants is clear as day, and is made even clearer by the fact that together, they repeated this process again and again,” said the Sandiganbayan.
“They all joined in a web of conspiracy, devised a way to rob the government. Funds were flushed out of the government coffers with nowhere to go, but the concerted effort to brook the claims for reimbursement,” the anti-graft court pointed out.
It is true that justice delayed is justice denied, but it appears, in this particular case, not all the time.
that is at the receiving end of any traffic problem along the freeway. It is they who will have to navigate their way out of a traffic gridlock caused for instance by a stalled or overturned vehicle because it always takes time for assistance to appear.
Since there are already a few electronic devices installed along the freeway, what management can and should do is expand the capability of these devices so that more information can be provided to the driving public. The installation should be done right at the entrances of the freeway and other strategic places so that motorists are constantly informed about what is going on throughout the stretch of the freeway.
What the few devices are currently doing is simply warning of traffic congestion ahead which is not enough. More has to be done by the freeway operators and that is not too much to ask.
UISEONG, South Korea—At least 18 people have been killed in one of South Korea’s worst wildfire outbreaks, with multiple blazes burning and causing “unprecedented damage”, the acting president said Wednesday.
More than a dozen different blazes broke out over the weekend, with the death toll jumping overnight as one major fire tore through villages and burned a historical temple to the ground.
The government has raised the crisis alert to its highest level and declared a “a full-scale national response” to bring
the fires under control.
“Eighteen people died in the wildfires,” a ministry of safety official told AFP.
“Additionally, six people were seriously injured and 13 suffered minor injuries.”
Dry, windy weather has hampered efforts to contain the fires, with the government taking the rare step of evacu-
TRUMP ANSWERS.
WASHINGTON, DC—US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) ordered tighter controls on federal elections, including requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote, as the Republican continues to attack a system he insists remains tilted against him.
Experts swiftly denounced his executive order as an abuse of presidential power that could ultimately prevent millions of Americans from casting ballots, and rights groups already have vowed to challenge it in court.
Trump, now in his second term, has never acknowledged his defeat to Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election, and he maintains baseless claims of massive election fraud -- particularly in absentee voting, a method which has become widely used across the United States.
“Perhaps some people think I shouldn’t be complaining, because we won in a landslide” last November, Trump said as he signed the executive order in the White House. AFP
DAMASCUS—Syria slammed Israeli attacks as a “flagrant violation” of its sovereignty after a deadly bombardment Tuesday in the country’s south, where Israel’s military said it had responded to incoming fire.
The violence near the UN-patrolled buffer zone on the Golan Heights followed Israeli air strikes in central Syria, the latest in a string of attacks on military sites since Islamist-led forces overthrew longtime president Bashar al-Assad.
The Syrian foreign ministry in a statement condemned “the continued Israeli aggression on Syrian territory, which saw a dangerous escalation in the village of Kuwayya” in the southern Daraa province.
It said “heavy artillery and air bombardment targeted residential and farming areas, leading to the death of six civilians”, raising an earlier toll provided by local authorities. AFP
COPENHAGEN, Denmark—Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has denounced a US delegation visit that now includes Vice President JD Vance to Greenland, the Danish island coveted by President Donald Trump, as putting “unacceptable pressure” on both the territory and her country. Vance, who has become Trump’s attack dog on foreign policy matters, will travel with his wife Usha to Pituffik Space Base on Friday “to receive a briefing on Arctic security issues and meet with US servicemembers,” his office said in a statement.
The vice president had earlier said in a video message that there was “so much excitement” around his wife’s planned visit to Greenland that he had decided to join her.
According to the Arctic island’s outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede, US national security adviser Mike Waltz will also visit Greenland this week, while US media have reported that Energy Secretary Chris Wright will travel there as well. AFP
US President Donald Trump listens to a reporter’s question during an Ambassador Meeting in the Cabinet Room of the White House on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. During the meeting, Trump answered questions from reporters on the news that Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic magazine, was accidentally added to a Signal group chat of top administration officials, where highly sensitive national security information was discussed. AFP
ating thousands of prisoners out of detention centers in affected counties.
On Tuesday, authorities issued an emergency alert for Hahoe Folk Village -- a UNESCO-listed world heritage site popular with tourists -- as the blaze drew closer.
“Wildfires burning for a fifth-consecutive day in Ulsan and the Gyeongsang region are causing unprecedented damage,” South Korea’s acting president Han Duck-soo said.
He told an emergency safety and disaster meeting that the blazes were “developing in a way that is exceeding both existing prediction models and earlier expectations.”
BURNT TO THE GROUND.
Firefighters gather ahead of the approaching wildfire in Andong Hahoe Folk Village, in Andong, South Korea, on March 25, 2025.
Inhabitants of a UNESCOlisted village were ordered to evacuate while a historic Buddhist temple was burned to the ground as South Korea scrambled to contain worsening wildfires, which are tearing across the country’s southeast. AFP
JERUSALEM—Israeli police released Oscar-winning Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal on Tuesday, after detaining him a day earlier for “hurling rocks” following what activists described as an attack by settlers in the occupied West Bank.
Basel Adra, who worked with Ballal on the Oscar-winning documentary “No Other Land,” posted a photo of Ballal on X after his release with blood stains on his shirt.
“After I won the Oscar, I did not expect to be exposed to such attacks,” Ballal said in a video by AFPTV.
“It was a very strong attack and the goal was to kill.”
According to the Israeli military, three Palestinians were apprehended on Monday for “hurling rocks” during a confrontation between Israelis and Palestinians in the southern West Bank village of Susya.
“Following this, a violent confrontation broke out, involving mutual rock hurling between Palestinians and Israelis,” the military statement said.
Authorities launched emergency evacuations Tuesday afternoon “but sadly, casualties could not be prevented,” he said.
“Throughout the night, chaos continued as power and communication lines were cut in several areas and roads were blocked,” he added.
Thousands of firefighters have been deployed, but “strong winds reaching speeds of 25 metres per second persisted from yesterday afternoon through the night, forcing the suspension of helicopter and drone operations,” Han said. AFP
The village is located near Masafer Yatta, a grouping of hamlets south of Hebron city where “No Other Land” is set.
The best documentary at this year’s Academy Awards tells the story of forced displacement of Palestinians by Israeli troops and settlers in Masafer Yatta -- an area Israel had declared a restricted military zone in the 1980s.
A police spokesperson confirmed Ballal had been detained, while a later statement from the force said three people had been released on bail. AFP
WASHIBGTON, DC—US President Donald Trump downplayed a growing scandal Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) after a journalist was accidentally added to a group chat about air strikes on Yemen, denying any classified information was shared and defending a top aide over the breach.
Trump said he would “look into” the use of the Signal app as he put on a united front at a meeting with US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who inadvertently included The Atlantic magazine’s Jeffrey Goldberg in the conversation of top national security officials. As Democrats scented blood for perhaps the
SUPPORT FOR MAYOR.
A protester holds a placard during a rally in support of Istanbul’s arrested mayor, in Istanbul, on March 25, 2025. Vast crowds have hit the streets daily since the March 19 move against Istanbul’s popular opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, prompting nightly clashes with riot police that have spread across the country. Imamoglu, 53, of the opposition CHP party, is widely seen as the only politician capable of defeating Turkey’s longtime leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the ballot box, but has now been stripped of his mayorship and jailed because of a graft and terror probe that his supporters denounce as a ‘political coup.’ AFP
first time since the Republican returned to power in January, Trump doubled down by attacking Goldberg as a “sleazebag” and said “nobody gives a damn” about the story rocking Washington.
Journalist Goldberg said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth sent information in the Signal chat about targets, weapons and timing ahead of the strikes on March 15. Goldberg also revealed highly critical comments by top US officials about European allies.
“There was no classified information,” Trump told reporters when asked about the chat, saying that the commercial app Signal was used by “a lot of people in government.”
Waltz said US technical and legal experts were looking into the breach but insisted he had “never met, don’t know, never communicated” with the journalist. He later told Fox News host Laura Ingraham that he took “full responsibility” for the breach, saying: “I built the group; my job is to make sure everything’s coordinated.”
Waltz suggested the leak was the result of him mistakenly saving Goldberg’s number under another name.
“Have you ever had somebody’s contact that shows their name and then you have somebody else’s number?” he said. AFP
1,500 detained as Turkey rallyists defy crackdown
ISTANBUL, Turkey—Almost 1,500 people have been detained -- including an AFP photographer -- as tens of thousands continued protests in the Turkish capital Tuesday after the arrest of the main political rival of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The biggest protests in Turkey in over a decade erupted last week following the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu on corruption charges, a move opposition supporters see as a blatant violation of the rule of law.
Authorities have hit back with a crackdown that has alarmed rights groups, with seven journalists who covered the protests remanded in custody by an Istanbul court on Tuesday.
Among them was AFP photographer Yasin Akgul, drawing a sharp rebuke from the Paris-based news agency. AFP
Pinoyliga Cup lures 2 foreign teams in Global Invitational tilt
By Peter Atencio
HAVING two visiting foreign teams in the Pinoyliga, a new tournament involving collegiate level basketball squads, is exciting for the organizers.
Benny Benitez, tournament director of Pinoyliga Cup, said this with their latest offering -- the Global Invitational --- now under way with five teams.
“It’s a dream come true for Pinoyliga. And we’re happy for the first international teams,” said Benitez on Monday night during a presentation held at the Games Ville Sports Bar in Mandaluyong City.
A Japanese side in Nagoya Gakuin University and a Fil-Am Nation selection has joined three local schools each in the men’s and women’s categories.
Nagoya Gakuin coach Hideki Takenoshita was present with members of his squad during the gathering, saying they will play their best during their weeklong visit here.
“Of course, we wish to be champions in this inaugaural tournament. We will do our best,” said Takenoshita.
The Gakuin side is fielding in players from different regional and national tournaments, seeking to know the physical brand of play in the Philippines.
Nagoya Gakuin University will face Fil-Am Nation Select on Thursday at Tanduay Gym in Manila,
This is after they play with University of Santo Tomas on Tuesday at the UST gym, and Emilio Aguinaldo College on Wednesday at the Tanduay Gym.
The Japanese squad will clash with the University of the East quintet on Saturday at the Paco Arena.
By Dennis Abrina
AFTER a thirty-year wait, the Perpetual
Help Junior Altas won the NCAA tennis championship on Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Court in Vito Cruz, Manila.
Top seed Sherwin Nuguit led Perpetual Help in the singles’ finals, defeating Coby Castillejo of the Mapua Red Robins with a score of 6-0, 6-4.
Simultaneously, Lance Maglaqui and Karl Roi Ricamara dominated Jaf Cunanan and Paeng Villanueva of the
Mapua Red Robins in the doubles, 6-3, 6-1, to secure the NCAA title for Perpetual.
ICoach Samuel Nuguit, alongside Dennis Canaria, was a player when the school won Perpetual’s first Juniors’ title under the legendary mentor Pete Custodio in 1995.
Now, coach Nuguit’s son, Sherwin, along with Kale Cyd Villamar, Lance Jayrel Maglaqui, Jor Rodolfo, and Shan Jette Ricamara, have brought the title back to Las Piñas. “Finally, perseverance paid off. They
deserved this championship. It’s great that Sherwin, Lance Maglaqui, and Karl Villamar won the title before graduating from Senior High,” said Nuguit. In the men’s division, Samuel Reane Nuguit, Shant Raven B. Nuguit, Al Kent Balazo, and Chad Wayne Cantiga of the Altas Acers defeated the Mapua Cardinals in the semifinals. They are now set to face defending champion College of St. Benilde on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Court, with the awarding ceremony following the match.
THE Pasay Voyagers continued their upward course with a 107-75 drubbing of Manila Batanag Quiapo on Tuesday in the Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBet-MPBL 2025 Season at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.
Pounding the boards, the Voyagers run and gun from the start to notch their third straight win after losing their first game in the roundrobin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament.
Powered by Laurenz Victoria, former star of the Mapua Cardinals, the Voyagers pulled away, 77-41, in the third quarter and were never threatened by the Batang Quiapo, who dropped their third straight after a successful debut.
Victoria tallied 17 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal to emerge as the best player. Warren Bonifacio provided support with 11 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists and so did Cyrus Tabi with 10 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals.
Homegrown Damian Lasco contributed 11 points, followed by Joel Soriano with 8 points and 8 rebounds.
Exploiting their huge 60-31 edge in rebounds, the Voyagers poured 62 points in the paint, more than double Batang Quiapo’s 30 points. Pasay, which trailed pacesetter Nueva Ecija (4-0), Pampanga (3-0), Quezon Province (3-0) and Rizal Xentromall (3-0), also shot better from afar with 10 triples against Manila’s six.
of the Philippines pulled off the biggest upset of the season, ending National University’s undefeated run in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament with a hardfought 26-24, 23-25, 1725, 25-23, 15-12 comefrom-behind victory on Wednesday afternoon at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Reeling from a narrow five-set defeat to the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles last Saturday, the Fighting Maroons banked on the 30-point explosion of middle blocker Nina Ytang to rise to solo fifth place in the eight-team field with a 4-5 card, breaking the previous three-way tie they had with the Blue Eagles and the Adamson University Lady Falcons.
Ytang became the first middle blocker across all eight teams to score at least 30 points since National University legend Jaja Santiago’s 30-point performance in a five-set loss to University of Santo Tomas last April 8, 2017. She was also two points away from matching the UP women’s volleyball scoring record of Tots Carlos last February 28, 2018. More importantly, Ytang’s heroics allowed the Fighting Maroons to snap a seven-year, nine-game losing streak against NU, a drought that stretched back to Season 81 in 2019. The last time the Fighting Maroons defeated the Lady Bulldogs was in the second round of Season 80 on April 4, 2018.
“Speechless ako. Bilog talaga ang bola. Binigay lang namin talaga lahat ‘eh. Sabi nga namin nung fifth set, dito na, malayo na tayo, kaya bakit pa tayo susuko? Linaban lang talaga namin, tulungan at tiyaga lang sa loob ng court,” the 23-year-old middle blocker said. In a back-and-forth fifth set affair, the Lady Bulldogs slowly began to gain the upper hand as two consecutive blocks from Sheena Toring and Alyssa Solomon gave NU a slim 12-11 lead.
However, UP displayed incredible poise under pressure against the defending champions, uncorking a crucial 4-0 run behind a net touch error and an attack error from Solomon, a quick hit from Ytang, and an off-the-block attack from Joan Monares to seal the stunning victory in two hours and 35 minutes.
Angels’ Saet proves age is but a number in semis run
PETRO Gazz’s hard-fought victory over an upstart ZUS Coffee squad in sudden death to clinch the fourth and last Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference semifinal berth was more than just redemption – it was a triumph of resilience, experience and sheer determination.
Manila drew 21 points and 3 rebounds from Richard Albo and 17 points plus 4 rebounds from Algin Andaya, but no other Batang Quiapo finished with twin digits.
The Valenzuela Classics wasted a big lead and settled for an 85-82 victory over the Marikina Shoemasters in the second game.
Ahead by as far as 62-34 halfway through the third quarter, Valenzuela allowed Marikina to threaten at 80-83 with 21.6 seconds to go before Kobe Monje canned two charities to hand the Classics a 2-2 card.
Louie Vigil led Valenzuela with 18 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds, followed by Monje with 14 points and 7 rebounds, Jan Fomentgo ith 13 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals, Kyle Drexler Neypes with 11 points plus 10 rebounds, and Jonathan Ralf Gesalem with 11 points.
Marikina absorbed its fourth straight defeat despite Michael Angelo Macion’s 23-point, 5-rebound effort, Carlo Velasco’s 11 points and 2 rebounds, homegrown Jethro Escoto’s 10 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals, and Karlo Penano’s 10 points plus 6 rebounds.
Caloocan Batang Kankaloo bunched 10 points starting the fourth quarter and proceeded to trounce the Bataan Risers, 84-71, in the opener.
As a result, the Batang Kankaloo pulled away, 69-51, en route to their second straight win after an initial loss. Chris Bitoon presided over that decisive
While many expected the seasoned Angels to cruise past the young and hungry Thunderbelles, the quarterfinal series turned into a grueling test, ultimately proving the value of a veteran presence. At the heart of Petro Gazz’s resurgence was Chie Saet, the 40-year-old setter who, given the opportunity, delivered back-to-back stellar performances to lift her team from a 0-1 deficit to a 2-1 series win.
In short, Saet was the game-changer.
“I’m really happy to be back inside the court and given this chance by Coach Koji (Tsuzurabara),” said Saet in Filipino.
“I embraced the responsibility – to take over, to distribute the ball well, and to lead my teammates.”
With Saet orchestrating the Angels’ offense, Petro Gazz rebounded from a stunning Game One defeat, dominating Game Two with a commanding 25-19, 25-13, 28-26 victory. She registered 18 excellent sets and added three points, keeping the team’s attack fluid against the Thunderbelles’ tenacious defense.
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
By Peter Atencio
THE Philippine national football team
did a great job in posting their first win in the final qualifying round of the 2027 Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup.
Coach Albert Capellas said this after the Filipino side pulled off a 4-1 victory over Maldives on Tuesday night at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium in Tarlac. “Job done. It’s these type of games that we have to win if we want to qualify,” said Capellas.
With the win, the Philippines now sits atop Group A. Maldives is ranked 162nd in the world, and the 150th-ranked Philippine booters quickly asserted themselves moments after kickoff.
Defender Jefferson Tabinas scored the first goal, just six minutes into the match after finding himself open at the far post. A second goal came in the 18th minute when Bjørn Martin Kristensen’s attempt went in for his sixth goal in just 12 international caps.
Maldives tried to rally back in the second half and got one in the 62nd minute off Ali Fasir, who volleyed in an assist from Hussain Sifaau Yoosuf.
“It’s always very important to start with a win. Now, we’re at the top (of Group A) and we cannot wait to play against Tajikistan here at home,” said Capellas. In the 77th minute, it was Randy Schneider’s turn, as he netted in the team’s third goal.
At stoppage time, midfielder Sandro Reyes calmly sent in right-footed blast inside the Maldives’ penalty area.
“We expect a lot of people and to start (the campaign) with two wins, and for sure we’re gonna fight for positions,” said Capellas.
By Randy M. Caluag
BOXING will continue to be a source of pride for the Philippines as officials and athletes from the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) celebrate the sport’s reinstatement in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, USA.
ABAP president Rep. Robbie Puno emphasized that the nation’s pursuit of its first Olympic gold in boxing remains strong.
“We welcome the IOC’s decision to keep boxing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Boxing has always been a cornerstone of Philippine sports, with our athletes proving their excellence on the global stage. This decision gives them another opportunity to chase that elusive Olympic gold, and we know many of them are eager and determined to seize it,”
Puno said.
Two-time Olympic medalist Nesthy
Petecio, who bagged a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a bronze at the Paris 2024 Olympics, expressed her gratitude for the sport’s return to the Olympic roster.
“This is incredible news for the Philippine National Boxing Team. Finally! It’s official—boxing is part of the LA28 Olympics. Thank you to the IOC and everyone who fought to keep boxing in the Games,” Petecio said.
“As an Olympian with silver and bronze medals, this gives me another chance to complete the set and continue fighting for the Philippines, my family, and my dreams. I’m even more
excited for the younger athletes who now have the chance to pursue their Olympic aspirations. This is truly inspiring. Once again, thank you to the IOC and everyone who made this possible for LA28,” she added.
Fellow Olympians Carlo Paalam, a silver medalist from Tokyo 2020, and Aira Villegas, a bronze medalist from Paris 2024, also expressed their enthusiasm.
“I’m thrilled by this news because it means more athletes worldwide will get the opportunity to compete. For me, it’s a challenge since new talents will emerge from different countries.
I’m grateful to those who worked hard to bring boxing back to the Olympics.
Let’s continue dreaming of that gold medal,” Paalam said.
Villegas echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the renewed motivation for Filipino boxers to train harder.
“This inspires us to work even harder in training. I’m beyond happy with this news,” she said.
THE Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) urged on Wednesday the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) not to delay any further the granting of cash incentives to the members of the national team that won a historic winter sport gold medal at the Ninth Asian Winter Games in Harbin more than 10 weeks ago.
“Where are the incentives?” Tolentino said. “This delay is hurting the momentum of our historic gold medal in curling in Harbin with strong consideration that the victory—a first by the country and any Southeast Asian nation in any winter sports—is our springboard to a potential gold in next year’s Winter
Olympics.”
Marc Pfister, Enrico Pfister, Alan Frei, Christian Haller and Benjo Delarmente shocked the world when they beat South Korea, 5-3, in the men’s curling gold medal play last February 14 in the Asian Winter Games.
“That was the best-ever achievement by our country in a winter sports competition,” Tolentino said.
“So let’s give what’s due this team because before their historic success in Harbin, they’ve been competing under the Philippine flag at their own expense and without any support from our government.”
The POC was quick to the draw in rewarding the athletes with a cash
bonus of $5,000 each when they flew into the country to present their medals four days after their victory in the Asian Winter Games.
Under Republic Act 10699—an
Act Expanding the Coverage of Incentives Granted to National Athletes and Coaches—the team is entitled to a P2-million incentive with the coaches receiving bonuses equivalent to 20 percent of the athletes’ reward.
“I’m hoping they release incentives the soonest and avoid any delays because this may affect the team’s preparations on their campaign to qaualify for the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina next year.”
TAGAYTAY CITY — The lush greens of Tagaytay Highlands recently witnessed a blend of sporting prowess and philanthropic spirit as the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament, proudly presented by Isla LPG Corporation (ILC), took center stage.
A total of 110 golf enthusiasts who are also partners, customers and stakeholders graced the event. The day began with a hearty breakfast and acquaintances, setting the stage for a day filled with friendly competition and camaraderie. From its inception, the Isla Cup Golf Tournament’s objective is to thank its customers and partners for their trust and confidence. The company regard their customers, clients and business partners as key drivers for their success. That is why they build their relationship through the Isla Cup Golf Tournament. The golf tournament is the company’s
way of taking care of its customers and valuing its business relationship with a long term perspective.
“We are very happy that the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament is very successful and we really appreciate the participation of all our customers” said TomoAki Asai, Chief Executive Officer, Isla Petroleum and Gas Corporation. “In the past, our annual golf tournament is a means for our customers and partners to have fun and get together. But now, we also enjoin them to be part of our CSR which is Alab Kalinga making it a day of competitive golf with a cause” added Asai.
“We have been organizing the Isla Cup Golf Tournament for eight years as our way of bringing in our customers, partners and stakeholders together for a really fun morning and lunch together” said Jose Ricardo Delgado, Ex-
Initially, boxing was excluded from the Olympic program when the schedule was announced in 2022. However, following the formation of a new governing body, World Boxing (WB), the International Olympic Committee (IOC) unanimously voted to reinstate the sport for the XXXIV Olympiad.
Vargas, who was elected to the WB Executive Board in November 2023 and recently appointed as Chef de Mission for Team Philippines at the 2028 Olympics, sees the reinstatement as a turning point for the sport and the country’s boxing program.
“We congratulate World Boxing for receiving recognition from the International Federation (IF) for boxing by the IOC. The Philippines, through ABAP, is a founding member and holds a position on the WB Board. This recognition offers an opportunity for WB to address past wrongs, which we have fought hard to rectify,” Vargas said.
clients, and business” said Jose Antonio “Banjo” Castillo, Chief Operating Officer, Isla
and Gas Corporation. The success of the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament
testament to the
of
people together for a common cause. With the unwavering support of ILC and the enthusiastic participation of its customers and business partners, the event is poised to continue its tradition for years to come.
Games on Sunday (Rizal Memorial Coliseum) 3:30 p.m. – Savouge vs VNS-Laticrete 6 p.m. – Criss Crossvs Cignal
CRISS Cross, with Marck Espejo finally getting into the groove, crushed VNS-Laticrete, 25-20, 25-15, 25-11, on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, moving just one victory away from securing its third consecutive finals appearance in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference. Playing in only his second game with the team after returning from Japan’s V.League, Espejo delivered an outstanding 14-point performance, tallying 10 attacks, two blocks, and two aces – nearly tripling his five-point output from his previous match. He also contributed four excellent digs, helping Criss Cross notch its 12th consecutive victory in the tournament organized by Sports Vision. “Coming from Japan, I just kept the momentum going. My main adjustment has been the weather and adapting to coach Tai (Bundit’s) training style, which is different from Japan’s,” said Espejo in Filipino, the former league MVP, who arrived just last Saturday. “But with the workload he gives us in training, I was able to adjust quickly.” Despite a slow start, the King Crunchers quickly regained their rhythm, overwhelming the young Griffins and completing the sweep in just 68 minutes. The win
Shell Pilipinas reports profit growth
NLEX Marilao opens all lanes
9 firms to bid for CBK plants
By Othel V. Campos
Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said Wednesday it expects to generate P48 billion from the disposition of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 property.
The BCDA signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) for the 61-hectare property,
valued at P48 billion.
Under the MOA, BCDA secured an increased annual lease payment of P489 million, up from P180 million, and granted MIAA a threeyear option to purchase the property for P48.89 billion or continue leasing it.
“This agreement is a win-win for the government, allowing BCDA to contribute more to state coffers while helping MIAA ensure seamless air traffic operations at this critical gateway,” said BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang.
Bingcang said the increased payments would boost government revenue, aligning with BCDA’s mandate to drive economic growth through strategic development initiatives.
MIAA general manager Eric Jose
Castro Ines said the lease-to-own setup allows MIAA to secure long-term control of the land.
“This will enable us to expand and modernize NAIA Terminal 3 without external constraints,” he said. If MIAA opts to purchase the property, a P10 billion down payment, less accumulated lease payments, will be required. The remaining balance will be subject to a 5-percent annual interest rate.
BCDA has structured a 15-year payment plan with semi-annual installments of about P3.74 billion.
P48.89 billion P489 million P180 million
Owning the land would allow MIAA to make long-term investments in NAIA’s infrastructure, boosting its capacity to accommodate growing domestic and international air travel demand. Rice imports fell by nearly half in 3 months VinFast
VINFAST and MGA.414 Corp., operator of the JIGA auto service chain, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand VinFast’s electric vehicle (EV) service network in the Philippines, with plans to establish 100 service centers nationwide by year-end.
“Our collaboration with JIGA reinforces VinFast’s commitment to delivering an optimal EV ownership experience in the Philippines. By combining VinFast’s green vision with JIGA’s professional service network, we are driving sustainable transportation forward,” said VinFast Asia chief executive Pham Sanh Chau. Under the MOU, VinFast and JIGA will designate service centers as official VinFast hubs or authorized facilities for repair, warranty, and maintenance.
JIGA’s centers will adhere to VinFast’s strict standards in infrastructure, equipment and expertise while ensuring genuine parts and services for customers.
The partnership addresses the rising demand for EVs in the Philippines and underscores VinFast’s long-term commitment to green transformation.
The Vietnamese EV manufacturer will support JIGA with personnel training, technical consultation, and knowledgesharing to accelerate the service network’s expansion.
JIGA, a leading automotive service provider specializing in tires, wheels and vehicle maintenance, operates 16 facilities across Luzon, Visayas and key metro areas. Othel V. Campos
MANILA—Nathalie Mago’s work day begins after she’s tucked her three daughters into bed and flicked off the lights in their house north of the Philippine capital Manila.
As her young family sleeps, she fires up her laptop and begins discussing the day’s agenda with her boss -- an American half a world away.
A “virtual assistant”, Mago is one of a growing number of Filipinos flocking to the booming but unregulated sector in the face of a tight job market, low wages and frequently hellish commutes.
“It literally saved me,” Mago told AFP. “I was able to support myself and my family at the same time.”
A former office worker, the 32-yearold said she’s now earning five times as much serving as the “right hand” of employers for whom she writes copy, manages social media and even buys family birthday gifts.
Government figures for the sector are unavailable as the role falls into no recognized job category, meaning legal protections are also effectively non-existent.
But Derek Gallimore, of advisory
This photo taken on Sept. 26, 2024, shows Philippine’s ‘virtual assistant’ Lyann Lubrico working at her home in Quezon City, Metro Manila.
Mago’s workday begins after she’s tucked her three daughters into bed and flicked off the lights in their house north of the Philippine capital Manila. AFP
firm Outsource Accelerator, estimates the number of Filipino virtual assistants at around a million -- a number he expects to grow.
“It’s the assumption that they can call their own shots, have more freedom and earn more money,” Gallimore said of the job’s allure, adding the reality may not always meet expectations.
Job-seeking platform Upwork lists the Philippines among the top five countries churning out virtual assistants, alongside India, Nigeria, Pakistan and the United States. AFP
THE Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) said implementing the Value-Added Tax
lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz. The VAT refund program is projected to
To
RICE imports declined by nearly half in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). DA assistant secretary Arnel de Mesa said rice imports from January to mid-March stood at slightly over 600,000 metric tons—or half of the 1.2 million metric tons recorded in the same period last year.
“Last year, monthly rice imports averaged 400,000 metric tons. This year, it has dropped to about 200,000 metric tons per month from January to March,” de Mesa said in a briefing Wednesday.
He attributed the decline to higher import volumes in late 2024, reducing the need for additional shipments in early 2025.
De Mesa also pointed to a possible improved domestic rice production as another contributing factor.
The government expects production to return to the 20-million-metric-ton level, or close to the record 20.06 million metric tons harvested in 2023.
That year, rice imports totaled only 3.6 million metric tons.
Meanwhile, the National Food Authority (NFA) allocated over P9 billion this year, including unspent funds from 2024, which could allow for increased procurement of local rice.
Warehouse and silo expansion efforts will take time to enhance storage capacity.
De Mesa clarified that the government does not directly control import levels, as rice importation is primarily managed by the private sector.
“The government aims for a fair market price—somewhere between P42 to P45 per kilogram—to keep farm gate prices of dry and clean palay at P21 to P23 per kilogram. This prevents undue burden on consumers while ensuring fair earnings for farmers,” de Mesa said.
While the NFA’s procurement capacity remains limited, the DA is actively seeking ways to bolster local rice supply and support farmers in the face of fluctuating market conditions, he said. Othel V. Campos
By Jenni er B. Austria
PHILIPPINE stocks posted modest gains Wednesday as investors downplayed the impact of “zero-remittance week”, which is being floated by supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte, on the economy.
The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index, inched up by 6.20 points, or 0.10 percent, to close at 6,166.05, while the broader all-shares index climbed 19.53 points, or 0.53 percent, to settle at 3,676.71.
China Bank managing director Juan Paolo Colet said the zero remittance week would unlikely have material impact on the economy.
“At the end of the day most OFWs will not let political issues get in the way of sending funds to their families and loved ones in the Philippines,” Colet said.
Bank of the Philippine Islands lead
economist Emilio Neri Jr. said the assuming that OFWs would push through with the planned boycott, this would have an impact on the economy in terms of current account deficit, foreign exchange and domestic growth.
The peso slid to 57.69 against the US dollar Wednesday, from 57.60 on Tuesday.
“But this is a very big ‘if’’. We also don’t know if the people calling for a boycott represents our OFWs,” Neri said.
He also noted that bulk of remittances comes from United States and Middle East. He said OFWs send money for their families in the Philippine to pay housing and car mortgages and tuition fees.
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.
Among the sectors, services climbed the most, rising by 1.7 percent, followed by mining and oil which rose 1.42 percent. Property and holding firms declined by 2.13 percent and 0.48 percent, respectively.
GT Capital Holdings Inc., the listed holding company of the Ty family, saw its 2024 net income decline 1.7 percent to P28.8 billion from P29.3 billion in 2023.
Core net income, which excludes non-recurring gains from lot sales and incentives under the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program, grew 11 percent year-on-year.
The growth was largely due to strong performance of GT Capital’s operating companies Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company and Toyota
Filinvest reports 36% profit growth to P12.1b in 2024
FILINVEST Development Corp. (FDC) of the Gotianun family said Wednesday its net income attributable to equity holders of the parent company climbed 36 percent in 2024 to P12.1 billion from P8.9 billion in 2023 on the back of record revenues.
Consolidated sales jumped 22 percent to an all-time high of P113.4 billion on double-digit improvement across all businesses including banking, real estate, power, hospitality and sugar.
“2024 was by far Filinvest’s strongest year. As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, this record performance anchors our growth plans and gives us confidence in our continued growth in the years ahead. It is a testament to our ability to adapt to changes over the decades and take advantage of opportunities when they arise,” said FDC president and chief executive Rhoda Huang.
The group’s banking and financial services posted net income contribution to the group of P5.8 billion, equivalent to 39 percent of FDC’s bottom line.
The power subsidiary contributed P4.3 billion in net income or 29 percent of the total. The property business, composed of the real estate and hospitality segments, delivered a combined P4.1 billion or 27 percent of total. The balance of 5 percent came from other businesses.
FDC’s banking unit EastWest Bank, on a stand-alone basis, booked its all-time high net income of P7.6 billion in 2024, or 25 percent higher than in the previous year on sustained consumer loan growth and strong deposit generation. Real estate business, comprised of listed subsidiary Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) and Filinvest Alabang Inc. (FAI), contributed P3.8 billion in net income to the group in 2024, or 3.2 percent higher than the P3.7 billion in the previous year.
Revenues from the residential segment saw a 9 percent increase to P17.6 billion, driven by higher percentage of project completion of mid-rise condominiums (MRBs) and housing projects, and a growing number of accounts being recognized as revenues. Jenniffer B. Austria
This is to notify the public that MR. NOEL AYCARDO VIOLA, 65 years old and a resident of Calathea Condominium, Dr. A. Santos Ave., Paranaque City, has passed away last September 20, 2023.
This notice is being published for whatever legal purpose it may serve.
By Jenniffer B. Austria
Motor Philippines (TMP), which delivered record profits of P48.1 billion and Php15.9 billion, respectively.
GLOBAL Ferronickel Holdings Inc.,
pushing boundaries further and reaching new milestones,” he said.
million for 2025 capital investments to finance strategic priorities.
“GT Capital’s core net income grew by 11 percent in 2024, building on the record levels achieved the previous year. This continuous improvement reflects the group’s strong fundamentals across diversified sectors,” said GT Capital president Carmelo Maria Luza Bautista.
(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.
Metrobank’s net income rose 14 percent year-on-year to a record P48.1 billion in 2024 on the back of robust asset expansion and improving asset quality.
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.
“We remain optimistic that our core businesses will sustain this growth momentum moving forward. This year, GT Capital is committed to
Increased productivity from Surigao mine and improved contribution from port operations in Bataan will also contribute to higher top-line
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.
TMP’s net income grew 15.3 percent in full-year 2024 to P15.9 billion as automotive sales rose 9 percent 218,019 units. Market share in the total automotive industry reached 46 percent It sold 14,057 units of electrifi ed vehicle sales, up 95 percent yearon-year.
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.
Jenniffer B. Austria
able 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
GFNI booked P743.9 million in net income in 2024, down by more than 50 percent from P1.5 billion from in Mining revenues stood at P7.59
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.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
S“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.
“We have two factories
in
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
HELL Pilipinas Corp. (SPC) on Wednesday reported a net income of P1.25 billion in 2024, up 5.75 percent from P1.182 billion in 2023 on the back of operational efficiencies despite lower revenues.
The company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its revenues amounted to P243.565 billion in 2024, down 3.85 percent from P253.316 billion in 2023. Shell said, however, core earnings reached P2.6 billion, marking a 15-percent growth compared to the previous year’s.
based on a preliminary assessment by an independent third-party firm.
The company said the improved financial performance last year was fueled by significant operational efficiencies, including P900 million in operating expense savings, higher by almost P500 million versus the target.
“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.
It said the savings resulted from supply efficiencies, structural cost reduction across the organization and interest avoidance.
Shell said effective inventory management strategies avoided further losses in inventory holding, improving the company’s overall financial health.
The company reported lower cost and expenses to P23.508 billion last year, from P248.277 billion in 2023.
Shell said that while overall volumes slightly declined 3 percent, higher demand for premium products across key segments enabled SPC to grow its margins.
“Our solid performance in FY 2024 demonstrates our capability to consistently deliver value through strategic management and operational excellence,” said SPC president and chief executive Lorelie Quiambao Osial.
“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.
“We remain dedicated to strengthening our cash position, driving revenue and earnings growth, and expanding our volume across key markets. Through innovative strategies and disciplined financial management, Shell Pilipinas will remain competitive and resilient in a dynamic and fast-paced market environment,” she said.
Basic is also developing the 50MW Mabini Wind Energy Project in Batangas with Japanese firm RENOVA Inc.
PROPEL PROGRAM. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) holds a the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), which highlights ‘Accelerating Innovations in the Philippines’. The event gathered key officials, researchers strengthens the link between scientific breakthroughs and global market opportunities. science and technology (S&T) enterprises with access to DOST’s comprehensive suite of
The BI must enhance border security while streamlining processes to attract foreign investors.
ing, reduced bureaucratic delays and strengthened investor-friendly immigration policies, making it easier for companies to bring in skilled workers and executives.
UNITED States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has chosen Manila as his first stop in Asia, underscoring the Philippines’ importance in the US strategic agenda.
AN ALTERNATIVE central station for bus and other public vehicles in the northern part of Metro Manila is gathering dust.
His visit comes amid rising tensions between the US and China, further fueled by reports that billionaire adviser Elon Musk was briefed on a supposed US war plan against China.
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.
Despite President Donald Trump’s “respectful” references to the Chinese leadership, relations between the two superpowers remain strained, with escalating tariffs and security concerns. The Philippines, given its geopolitical position, is inevitably caught in the middle.
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 Bureau of Immigration (BI), meanwhile, plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security, especially in light of concerns over espionage.
The DOTr back in 2023 obtained funding support from the Public-Private Partnership Center for a pre-feasibility study on the North ITS Project.
Just last month, BI chief Joel Anthony Viado along with other law enforcement agencies, presented five Chinese nationals suspected of conducting espionage activities. Some had lived in the country for over two decades, embedded in local communities under the guise of legitimate employment.
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.
It follows similar incidents earlier this year when Chinese nationals were caught surveilling Philippine naval and coast guard operations. A known operative of China’s Ministry of State Security was also exposed last year, having built networks within key institutions. These cases mirror a broader regional trend, with countries like Vietnam and Cambodia also uncovering Chinese espionage activities.
With increasing reports of foreign intelligence operations, the BI must work closely with agencies
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
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.
like the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to monitor, investigate and act against security threats. The agency’s mandate goes beyond immigration enforcement―it is a frontline defense against foreign infiltration.
At the same time, the Philippines remains an attractive destination for US businesses looking to expand in Asia. Hegseth’s visit signals not only military cooperation but also confidence in the country’s growth prospects.
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).
American investors are eyeing infrastructure, energy, technology and manufacturing, making it crucial for the BI to ensure smooth, secure processing for legitimate business entries while filtering out individuals who may pose risks.
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.
A strong immigration system is vital to striking the balance. The BI must enhance border security while streamlining processes to attract and accommodate foreign investors and skilled professionals. With the country vying for foreign direct investments amid regional competition, ensuring an investor-friendly but highly secure immigration framework is key to long-term economic growth. Viado’s reforms
A major positive development is the expansion of the BI’s advanced passenger information system, allowing authorities to assess potential security risks before individuals even arrive in the country. The pre-screening mechanism enhances border security while expediting the entry of legitimate travelers, including foreign investors.
For starters, it would relocate bus terminals in Quezon City.
By integrating digital systems and artifi cial intelligence-driven screening tools, Viado is positioning the BI as a modernized agency that balances national security with economic competitiveness.
Viado has led efforts to replace the outdated 84-year-old Philippine Immigration Act, which has long been a hurdle for both security enforcement and investment facilitation.
His push for legislative reforms aims to align immigration policies with global best practices, making the Philippines more attractive to multinational companies seeking a stable and secure business environment.
The recent re-arrest of an escaped Korean national from BI detention highlights the agency’s growing efficiency. However, further improvements are necessary.
Since assuming office, Viado has implemented significant reforms to improve both national security and the ease of doing business for foreign investors. Under his leadership, the BI has intensified its crackdown on illegal aliens involved in espionage and crime while ensuring that legitimate foreign businessmen and professionals can enter the country with greater efficiency.
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.
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.
The BI is performing duties equivalent to both the US Immigration and Naturalization Service and the Department of Homeland Security. With growing external threats and increased foreign investment, it is imperative that the agency receives the necessary resources and legislative backing to enhance its capabilities.
He has pushed for streamlined visa process-
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
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,
Hegseth’s visit is a reminder that national security and economic stability go hand in hand. A vigilant and well-equipped Bureau of Immigration will be instrumental in protecting the country from both external threats and internal vulnerabilities, while ensuring the Philippines remains an attractive destination for global investors.
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA)
said it launched a feed distribution initiative to support duck raisers in Pampanga province.
As part of the DA’s broader efforts to strengthen livestock farming, particularly poultry, the project aims to boost farmers’ income and enhance food security. Central Luzon, home to more than half of the nation’s duck population, leads in both duck meat and egg production, contributing 27 percent of the national duck meat supply and 56 percent of duck eggs.
The region recorded a total duck
new Makati facility to boost presence
SECURELink Networks, a joint venture between PT&T Corp. and Australian tech firm Netlinkz Ltd., is investing millions of dollars in a new facility in Makati City this year, further strengthening its presence in the Philippines.
SecureLink Networks chairman and co-founder James Tsiolis, who also serves as chief executive and managing director of Netlinkz, told reporters at the Virtual Secured Network Plus (VSN+) launch that the company is considering further investment in the Philippines.
“We’re establishing a lab that will be a multimillion-dollar investment. Very soon. We’re in the process,” Tsiolis said.
“As you know, software can be further improved. So, we’re bringing a very good product from Australia and porting it over to the Philippines,” he said.
SecureLink Networks launched VSN+ in the Philippines, a groundbreaking solution poised to revolutionize enterprise cybersecurity and network resilience nationwide.
James Velasquez, PT&T president and chief executive and co-founder and chief executive of SecureLink Networks said VSN+ is not just a product but also a bold response to the growing threats in an interconnected world.
“With Australia cutting-edge tech and PT&T’s local expertise, we’re providing secure, scalable, and future-ready solutions for businesses and the government,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar
inventory of 4.9 million in 2024, with Pampanga alone accounting for nearly 60 percent. Considering the rising costs of feeds, the DA rolled out several support measures, including free avian influenza testing, feed assistance, and post-harvest facilities.
Under the feed assistance program, registered duck raisers in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) are likely to receive between 9 and 17 bags of feed, each weighing 50 kilograms. Support ranges from P15,000 to P28,000 per recipient.
To qualify, duck raisers should own at least 100 ducks, with aid capped at 2,000 ducks per farm, regardless of
the number registered in the RSBSA.
Nearly 1,000 duck raisers from Pampanga’s fourth district, including those from Candaba, San Luis, San Simon and Apalit, will benefit from the initiative, which aims to stabilize the industry and boost productivity.
The DA plans to refine the program into a multi-year initiative and expand it to other regions.
“Though small, this feed distribution initiative provides vital support to our Kabalen in the duck industry, who work tirelessly to help achieve a food-secure Philippines and a more prosperous agricultural sector,” said Agriculture secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr.
By Darwin G. Amojlear
NLEX Corp. said Wednesday all four lanes of North Luzon Expressway’s Marilao northbound section are now passable to vehicles ahead of the projected schedule.
“While all lanes are now passable, supporting steel poles will remain on the lanes to allow concrete curing of the bridge. With this development, traffi c fl ow in Marilao Northbound is expected to improve and normalize in the next few days,” NLEX said in a statement.
The Marilao Bridge sustained damage from a truck violating regulations on March 19, causing traffic flow changes to facilitate ongoing repairs and ensure motorists’ safety.
Originally scheduled for completion in two weeks, NLEX expedited the repairs, with teams working around the clock and with the expe-
dited delivery of the fabricated steel needed for the bridge.
“We thank the motoring public for their utmost understanding and patience while repairs were ongoing,” NLEX said.
“Rest assured that NLEX continues to intensify safety and traffi c measures in key areas of the expressway to ensure the safety and convenience of our valued customers,” it said.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr), in a separate statement, thanked NLEX for the swift response to open all four lanes under the damaged Marilao Interchange Bridge on NLEX. This was done a week ahead of the original two-week schedule.
“This will now allow close to normal travel times, so that commuters and motorists on NLEX can spend more valuable time with their families and reach their destinations promptly,” the DOTr said.
“This shows the commitment and dedication of both the DOTr and its partners like NLEX Corp. to respond quickly to problems such as this to try and provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all Filipinos,” it said.
CEBU Pacific said Wednesday it acquired new ground support equipment (GSE) to meet rising demand across its expanding network.
The latest addition to its ground fleet includes high-capacity tow tractors, mobile passenger steps, boarding ramps, deck loaders, catering trucks and electric baggage tractors.
These will be strategically de-
ployed across Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 2 and 3 as well as other key Cebu Pacific domestic hubs, to enhance aircraft turnaround times and support overall operational efficiency.
“As we continue to expand our operations, it is important that we also invest in the right equipment to maintain operational reliability,” said Lei Apostol, Cebu Pacifi c vice president for customer service operations.
“These new assets reflect our commitment to providing safe, reliable, and seamless travel experiences for our passengers,” Apostol said.
GSEs are specialized vehicles and tools used to service aircraft while on the ground. It covers critical functions such as baggage and cargo handling, passenger boarding and maintenance support. The investment forms part of the airline’s broader strategy to support long-term network growth while maintaining industry-leading standards in safety and customer service.
THE Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) reiterated its support for microcredentialing in technical-vocational education and training (TVET), saying it would help equip workers with indemand skills and address the job-skills mismatch.
“As companies shift toward skillsbased hiring, micro-credentials offer a faster and more efficient way to equip Filipinos with the specific competencies employers need,” PBEd executive director Justine Raagas said in a statement.
“They can help Filipinos close skills gaps, move forward in their careers, and find better job opportunities,” he said.
PBEd noted the efforts by the Technical Education and Skills Develop-
ment Authority (TESDA) to advance micro-credentialing, a system providing modular, industry-recognized certifications in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. These stackable credentials offer a flexible pathway for workers to gain job-ready skills without full-length degree programs. TESDA launched micro-credentials on March 14, 2024, via TESDA Circular No. 077-2024, describing it as a way for learners to “earn modular certifications for specific skills” and “upskill, reskill, and gain formal recognition for their competencies without necessarily completing an entire course.”
Cebu Pacific flies to 37 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia and the Middle East. Darwin G. Amojelar
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Department of Energy (DOE)
awarded a certificate of authority (COA) for Basic Energy Corp.’s planned 43-megawatt-peak Cadiz 1 solar power project in Negros Occidental. Basic said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange this followed the board’s approval of a solar energy operating contract (SEOC) application for the project, disclosed on Dec. 4 2024, and the awarding of the COA for its 62-MW Bataan solar power project in Mariveles, Bataan.
“This milestone reinforces our commitment to expanding renewable energy solutions in the Philippines. Basic Energy Corp. is eager to advance the Cadiz 1 Solar Power Project and will provide updates as it progresses,” said Basic vice chairman and chief executive Oscar De Venecia Jr.
The DOE issued the COA under the revised Omnibus Guidelines Governing the Award and Administration of Renewable Energy Contracts (effective June 2024) and grants Basic the authority to secure necessary permits and tenure instruments for the project. It also enables the company to initiate procurement activities in preparation for the 25-year SEOC contract term.
The Cadiz 1 solar project spans 30 hectares, and a preliminary assessment by an independent third-party firm estimates a peak generation capacity of at least 43 MW.
The company said that with the COA secured, Basic Energy would move forward with critical development activities, including obtaining approvals from national agencies and local government units.
By Jenni er B. Austria
PHILIPPINE National Bank (PNB), the financial arm of beer and tobacco tycoon Lucio Tan, on Wednesday announced the appointment of veteran banker Edwin Bautista as its new president and chief executive.
Bautista, former president of Union Bank of the Philippines (UBP), will succeed Florido Casuela, effective April 29, 2025, “The board of directors of the Philippine National Bank has appointed Edwin Bautista as its new president and chief executive officer succeed-
FITCH Ratings upgraded the viability ratings of Philippine banks, citing improved financial metrics driven by the country’s robust economic environment over the past three years.
The ratings agency forecasts the Philippine economy to maintain its momentum, with GDP growth of around 6 percent in the medium term, which should continue to support banking business volume and limit impairment risks.
BDO Unibank Inc (BBB-/Stable), Bank of the Philippine Islands (BBB-/ Stable) and Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (BBB-/Stable) were among the biggest beneficiaries of the resilient economy and higher interest rates.
Fitch said their risk-adjusted profitability had exceeded pre-pandemic levels and was projected to remain higher over the next 12 to 18 months.
The agency expects the banks’ established franchises and steady underwriting standards to help maintain loan quality as they expand their retail customer base. These factors should also support their viability ratings, which drive their longterm issuer default ratings (IDRs).
The standalone credit profiles of Land Bank of the Philippines (BBB/ Stable) and Development Bank of the Philippines (BBB/Stable) have also improved, with capital buffers gradually rebuilding, it said.
Asset quality issues related to past policy lending continue to weigh on their financial performance, but Fitch expects these pressures to subside over the next 12 months due to a resilient economy and lower interest rates.
ing Florido Casuela effective April 29, 2025, subject to his election and qualification as a member of the board,” PNB said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday.
Casuela will continue to serve PNB in a strategic capacity as board advisor. Following his appointment, Bautista also resigned as director of UBP.
Bautista retired as UBP president at the start of the year following the appointment of Ana Maria Aboitiz-Delgado as its new president and chief executive.
PNB said the appointment of Bautista forms part of the bank’s ongoing
strategic transformation.
“Mr. Bautista brings with him a wealth of experience from Union Bank of the Philippines where he played a pivotal role in driving the bank’s digital transformation and expanding its retail banking. His appointment signals PNB’s commitment to innovation, customer-centric banking and long-term sustainable growth,” PNB said.
Bautista joined UBP as senior vice president, performing crucial roles in transaction banking, institutional banking (corporate and commercial), consumer banking and retail banking.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
INE companies expressed interest to participate in the sale of the 796.64-megawatt CalirayaBotocan-Kalayaan (СВК) hydroelectric power plants, the Power Sector Asset and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) said Wednesday.
PSALM said the nine companies attended the pre-proposal conference where the agency presented an overview of the project, the bidding process and the project agreements for the sale of CBK.
The bid proposal submission date for the CBK power plants is on June 16, 2025. PSALM said it is privatizing the CBK hydro plants, on an “as is, where is” basis.
The interested firms include Thunder Consortium (Aboitiz Group, J-POWER, Sumitomo Corp), ACEN Corp.’s GIGA ACE 11 Inc., First Gen Prime Energy Corp. of the Lopez Group and Semirara Mining & Power Corp. of the Consunji Group.
Others are Hexa Philippines Holdings Inc. (a part of HEXA Renewables, a panAsia renewable energy platform established by I Squared Capital), Marubeni Corp. of Japan, Korea Water Resources Corp., businessman Enrique Razon’s Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. and San
CIVIC
facility are (from left) PAGCOR CRSD senior manager Joaquin Abejar, assistant vice president Eric Balcos, Luisiana Mayor Jomapher Uy Alvarez and Vice Mayor Luibic Jacob.
LAND Bank of the Philippines said it is raising the bar for savings accounts with the launch of OptiSaver Plus—an upgraded version of its high-interest OptiSaver account—designed to help Filipinos grow their funds while enjoying free insurance coverage for greater financial security.
With tiered interest rates of up to 4-percent per annum, the LandBank OptiSaver Plus account provides depositors with free insurance coverage based on their average daily balance (ADB).
Optisaver Plus account holders receive life insurance coverage which scales with account balance tiers, rewarding higher savings with greater fi nancial protection. Meanwhile, personal accident insurance offers additional coverage against accidents resulting in injury or loss, en-
Pru Life UK retains industry rank, eyes continued growth this year
PRU
in 2024, according to the latest Insurance Commission report.
The company said its NBAPE grew 33 percent quarter-on-quarter in the fourth quarter of 2024, extending its lead over its closest competitor to 8.87 percent. Pru Life UK said its total premium income rose to P48.2
reflects our commitment to addressing the evolving needs of Filipinos with the right insurance products at the right time,” said Francis Ortega, Pru Life UK’s chief financial officer.
“We remain committed to sustainable growth anchored on innovative and customer-centric solutions,” said Ortega.
Pru Life UK said it plans to expand its portfolio with new health and protection solutions in 2025.
As the first Takaful operator in the Philippines, the company said it is preparing to launch its first affordable, Shariahcompliant Family Takaful product for the Muslim Filipino community.
suring a safety net for depositors and their families.
Maintaining a minimum ADB of P50,000 qualifies depositors for either free life insurance or free personal accident insurance, while those in the highest balance tier of P20 million and above receive both coverages.
“With the LandBank OptiSaver Plus, we are empowering our clients to achieve financial growth while securing their future. By combining the benefits of higher savings potential and built-in financial protection, we are ensuring their hard-earned money works even harder for them as they build wealth with confidence,” said LandBank president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz.
As a savings account, the LandBank OptiSaver Plus offers flexibility with no tenor, and allows account holders to unlimited deposits and withdrawals.
Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. Department of Finance and National Power Corp. representatives attended the pre-proposal conference as observers.
“We aim to inform interested companies ahead of time of the documentary requirements to successfully participate in the bidding process for the CBK power plants. This conference is also an opportunity for parties to inquire on any lingering issue regarding the bidding for CBK,” PSALM vice president for privatization and asset management Arnold Francisco said at the opening of the pre-proposal conference.
The CBK hydro power plants are located in Lumban, Majayjay and Kalayaan in Laguna province. They play a central role in the Luzon power system.
The CBK plant was contracted to CBK Power Company Ltd. under a 25year build-rehabilitate-operate-transfer agreement. The cooperation period started in February 2001 and will expire by February 2026.
“The trust of close to one million policyholders inspires us to protect more Filipinos,” said Rozanne Magararu, Pru Life UK’s chief customer and marketing officer. Vietnam to cut import duties on Trump worries HANOI—Vietnam said it plans to cut import duties on a range of goods including cars, liquefied gas and some agricultural products, as concerns escalate over potential US tariffs. The announcement on the finance ministry’s
By Michael Wong Ho
FILIPINO executive Alfonso ‘Pons’ de Dios, with over 24 years of experience in the Chinese market, shared valuable insights on business opportunities in China during the Pandesal Forum at Kamuning Bakery and Café on March 21, 2025.
tial for success. The Chinese market is highly dynamic, and businesses should adapt their products to appeal to the sophisticated and diverse Chinese consumers, who are far from homogeneous, he said.
“The Chinese consumer is evolving rapidly, becoming more sophisticated and greatly influenced by social media,” he said.
vice for Filipino businesses aiming to enter the Chinese market, emphasizing three guiding principles: always stay curious by continuously questioning and challenging the status quo to foster innovation, recognize that there is no such thing as a bad idea and remain open to external feedback to refine business offerings, and lead by example by being actively involved in the business and ensuring that actions align with long-term goals through a strategic and holistic approach.
Beauty products, in particular, have become a significant sector in China, as consumers place a premium on quality and innovation.
“The product itself is half the battle. The other half is the story behind it,” de Dios said.
He advised businesses to not only offer high-quality products but also ensure that the brand’s story resonates with the market.
Another key point he discussed is how business could serve as a bridge for improving relations between the Philippines and China, particularly in light of current political tensions. He said that while politics may divide nations, business transcends these barriers, allowing people to connect on common ground.
estate success comes from hard work, strategic selling
THE Philippine Association of Realty Board-Pasay Makati Realty Board Inc. (PAREB-PMRB) held its business membership meeting on March 25, 2025 at Shakey’s Pizza Parlor in Paseo de Magallanes in Makati City. PAREB-PMRB president Edward Ong, chairperson Glorie Marie Sy and its officers and members were present during the event.
Wilson Lee Flores, a renowned entrepreneur, real estate investor and award-winning columnist served as the guest speaker during the event. Flores, who has an illustrious background in real estate and business, shared his insights and personal experiences.
With over P2 billion in real estate sales through AIC condos during a two-year span (1995-1996), Flores transitioned into a successful career as a real estate investor.
He is the president of Red Apple Properties & Management Inc., owner of the historic Kamuning Bakery Café, and co-owner of Caltex Iba Malhacan Road in Meycauayan Exit in Bulacan, Wheelstar and Cathedral Cargo Movers.
As a multi-awarded writer and columnist, Flores has authored five books on Philippine business, earning a record 15 Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA), including three CMMA Hall of Fame Awards. He is also a three-time Palanca Literary Award winner and the moderator of the Pandesal Forum. He began his career as a purchasing manager in a real estate company but quickly discovered his passion for sales and was transferred to the sales department.
Flores cited the importance of perseverance, focus and hard work.
De Dios said understanding the right product-market fit is essen-
De Dios was Procter & Gamble’s media director for Greater China from 2001 to 2009, managing media and communication plans across 33 markets. In 2010, he moved to Beijing to start his consultancy, Telos Media Works, helping businesses use media to build brands. He also founded TVCXpress Manila Inc. in Manila, a company focused on technology-driven advertising solutions.
“Once you stop innovating, you risk putting your brand at risk.” he added.
He said Chinese consumers are increasingly using social media to discover and evaluate products, making it crucial for businesses to maintain a strong digital presence.
He provided an example of how Luckin Coffee, a technology-driven coffee brand, innovated its business model by offering fast service and lower prices, eventually outselling Starbucks in China.
De Dios also offered practical ad-
A SERIES of lectures on the “New Journey of Digitalization and Intelligentization of Education” kicked off at Hope Christian High School on March 14, 2025.
The event was jointly sponsored by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), the Philippine Jin Jiang Grand Family Association and Hope Christian High School.
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro, vice president Hong Jian Xiong, board director Ke Wei Han and other leaders attended the event.
Pedro shared insights on digital technology, AI, the Internet of Everything and man-machine coordination, emphasizing how these advancements are reshaping
Hope Christian High School hosts a series of lectures on ‘New Journey of Digitalization and Intelligentization of Education’ on March 14, 2025.
traditional education models.
He encouraged Filipino-Chinese schools to embrace digital transformation and AI in education.
Earlier this year, FFCCCII donated a Huawei IdealHub electronic screen and software to Hope Christian High School.
Pedro urged the school to set an example for other Filipino-Chinese schools by utilizing the new technology.
Teachers from the English and Chinese departments demonstrated how the electronic whiteboard and AIpowered picture books were incorporated into their lessons, showcasing the practical application of new educational tools. Julie Ann Lope
THE Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI) participated IN the Philippine International Furniture Show 2025 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on March 6, 2025.
The event, themed “Philippines: An Archipelago of Design,” was attended by government officials, foreign embassies, chambers of commerce, private sector representatives, and furniture enthusiasts.
CFBCI President Samuel Lee Uy, vice chairmen Ramon Uy, Mylene Co and Jimmy Ang and plenary member Justin Ang were present
during the event.
Erwin Tan, president of the Philippine International Furniture Show, cited the organization’s commitment to sustainability and the global recognition of Filipino design.
Raquel Ruth Tria-Joya, acting head of the MICE Department of the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, said Filipino-made furniture contributes to the country’s tourism industry.
Paolo Castro, national president of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers, discussed the growth of
Filipino artisans on the international stage.
Sharlene Zabala-Batin, assistant secretary of the Department of Tourism, affirmed the DOT’s support in preserving Philippine culture and heritage.
CFBCI president Samuel Lee Uy expressed the organization’s support for initiatives that foster economic growth and promote local designers and manufacturers.
The three-day event, held from March 6 to 8, featured over 200 brands from Manila, Pampanga and Cebu. Julie Ann Lope
THE Association of Chinese Filipino Schools in the Philippines (ACFSP), in cooperation with the Philippine Sun Yat-sen Society, held a Minnan Yu (Southern Fujian dialect) speech contest on March 16, 2025 at the ACFSP auditorium. The event commemorated the 100th death anniversary of Sun Yat-sen.
More than 100 Filipino-Chinese school students and community leaders from Metro Manila attended the ceremony.
Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) vice president Hong Jian Xiong, Grand Family Association of the Philippines chairman Dai An Guo and Philippine Jin Jiang General Association Inc. honorary chairman Chen Kai Fu served as jury members for the contest.
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro served as the guest speaker.
He said March 12, 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of Sun Yat-sen’s passing, a moment remembered by Chinese communities worldwide.
Pedro highlighted Sun Yat-sen’s contributions to the democratic revolution and emphasized the importance of Minnan Yu, the language spoken by millions of Chinese in Southeast Asia and other regions.
The event underscored the cultural significance of Minnan Yu, encouraging further appreciation and study of the dialect. Michael Wong Ho
“Business appeals to everybody. It helps consumers and builds bridges,” he said.
De Dios encouraged Filipino entrepreneurs to seize the opportunities that the Chinese market offers, noting that despite the challenges, the right approach can yield significant rewards.
By Julie Ann Lope
THE Manila-Guangzhou Friendship Association has been reorganized, with Daniel Nobleza elected as the new chairman.
Nobleza, a former RTV host in Malacañang during the Duterte administration, brings his passion for people-to-people diplomacy and social activities to the organization. His leadership is seen as a fresh approach to give new strength to the association’s goals of fostering deeper ties between Manila and Guangzhou.
In November 2024, Nobleza visited Guangzhou, where he met with Philippine Consul General Iric Cruz Arribas, as well as foreign affairs officials from the said city.
During the visit, they discussed ways to revive and promote economic, cultural and social exchanges between the two sister cities. Nobleza’s trip was part of a broader effort to reignite collaboration between the cities, especially in areas like trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Guangzhou, one of China’s oldest and most significant commercial centers, has long been recognized for its pivotal role in the South China economy. The city is part of the Greater Bay Area, which also includes Hong Kong, Macau, and other surrounding cities, and is a major driver of economic growth in the region. Guangzhou officials noted the city’s ongoing focus on the Canton Fair, China’s largest trade event, which serves as a key export window for the country. They also highlighted the upcoming National Games, set to take place in November 2025, which are expected to be on a scale comparable to the Olympic Games. These events, alongside the city’s vibrant economy and rich cultural heritage, make Guangzhou an attractive destination for Filipinos, with officials extending a warm invitation for Filipino visitors. The sister city relationship between Manila and Guangzhou was
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, JASPER VALDEZ,
FILIPINO
Francis, the Karaoke World Championships Philippines (KWC PH) champion, is making waves in the local music scene with the strong streaming performance of his debut singles “You Are The One” and “Come Back To Me” on Spotify.
“You Are The One” features Thai pop artist Yayee and Thai pop influences.
fans as an anthem for dreamers, landed on multiple Spotify editorial playlists on release day. It ranked ninth on Fresh Finds Philippines and garnered over 3,000 streams within hours, according to KWC PH management.
Apple Esplana-Manansala, a partner at KWC PH management, said the single has surpassed 100,000 Spotify streams in less than a month. It also reached nearly 100,000 views on YouTube and almost 300,000 views on Facebook.
“What an amazing accomplishment for Jan
THE producers behind the Spider-Man and Harry Potter film franchises will oversee the next James Bond movie, Amazon MGM Studios announced Tuesday
The appointment of Amy Pascal and David Heyman is the first step in Amazon’s plan to relaunch the British spy franchise, after taking full creative control last month.
The producers are expected to play a major role in deciding who will replace actor Daniel Craig as the super-suave MI6 agent, as well as choosing the next film’s director and production schedule.
Amazon MGM Studios film chief Courtenay Valenti said the pair would “deliver to global audiences storytelling that upholds the impeccable legacy of this beloved character.”
Pascal, who previously ran major Hollywood studio Sony Pictures, is bestknown for her work on various SpiderMan films, including the recent live-action movies starring Tom Holland. She is no stranger to the Bond franchise. During her tenure, Sony Pictures released 007 films Casino Royale Quantum of Solace, and
THERE was this forwarded tirade about celebrities running for public office, which I came across in our college friends’ group chat. Apparently, more and more of these popular names in show business and other fields not directly linked to politics and public service are eyeing to get elected in the coming polls, to the point that the race has become some sort of a mockery.
That former classmate of mine who shared the post noted that these famous people, some of them obviously inexperienced, are “thick-skinned” to even have the audacity to make use of their fame to win an electoral post. Another must have implied it’s the fault of the voters who put them in power anyway. Let’s face it. Filipinos are obsessed with celebrities. For one, it matters to most people that they get to have selfies with the rich and famous. In the 2022 elections, I remember people expressing on social media their pride in having voted for their triumphant idols and that they’ve been their longtime fans, as if that matters to how the person they enabled would perform. Yes, popularity alone can at times give these so-called idols instant positions in the government. It will take a kind of reeducation—an overhauling of social ideals, if I may say—to change the majority’s mentality and turn them into wiser voters. Call that being judgmental, but the election surveys alone would tell that the bar on voters’ education must be raised. Needless to say, personalities or characters are heading the pack; the doctorates and perceived intellectuals are lagging behind.
Francis, Yayee, and the team,” Esplana-Manansala said. The song’s message of hope and determination resonated with listeners, helping fuel its growing popularity.
Jan Francis released his follow-up single “Come Back To Me” on Feb. 14, showcasing a more emotional side with a ballad about heartbreak and longing. The two singles mark a strong start for the newcomer, reflecting his versatility as a singersongwriter.
The 2025 KWC PH champion’s debut comes with support from his
management team, which continues to push his music on streaming platforms. Jan Francis is also set to join the Fusion Manila music festival on March 15, 2025. The event, known for gathering Filipino artists across genres and generations, will serve as another platform for the rising singer to perform live.
The streaming success of his first two releases signals a promising start for Jan Francis in the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) industry.
For more information on KWC PH and its 2025 auditions, visit www. kwcph.com.
But it is now more common to see video clips that put on display others’ incapacity to act or speak as expected for a public official, which should argue that, generally speaking, they’re a miscast in their acquired role. It’s not even about them lacking the education and experience to serve their posts. It’s the ridiculousness that they bring to the table for everyone to feast on. Not to mention the possibility that they may end up as slaves to the allure of corruption.
Here’s my take: it’s almost pointless to urge people not to vote for some celebrities jumping into politics. There’s just too many of them who probably find it convenient to vote for someone they’re instantly familiar with. The predictable results over the years point to that. Another seemingly incompetent showbiz person would get elected.
So how do we address this matter? Well, perhaps there will come a time when showbiz colleagues would no longer find it cool to run, that doing so is blatant disrespect to the profession, or that everyone agrees that artists must live for the arts and, therefore, there’s no time for dirty politics.
Besides, a film icon once said that you can serve the public without having to win an election. Just make use of popularity to reach out directly to the people—the fans. It’s becoming harder to understand why some individuals would want to make laws when that is a very technical process, and likely a boring lot if you’ve been used to the excitement of shooting a movie scene or performing in front of delirious crowds.
In an ideal world, showbiz people should not be allowed to run, in the same way that it is best for a true-blue politician not to star in a teleserye. Yes, it’s everyone’s right to serve the people. But there is also the word delicadeza. It should come from a movie star’s resolve not to file for candidacy because that’s simply the classy move. Not because you can, you should. You may portray a politician for a movie project all you want. But definitely, there are those who are more fit for the position but not just as popular. Why not give them a better chance of winning by taking yourself out of the equation?
But wait, is it actually fair to think that it is unwise to vote for someone whose job prior to filing a certificate of candidacy is to act in front of the camera? Well, some actors do become competent government officials.
But then again, this is wishful thinking. Until there isn’t a rule that will only allow a person with a certain degree and who passes a particular test— like the bar exam—to run for office, then some, without batting an eye, will always be using their celebrity status to conquer politics for whatever purpose—noble or not.
Heyman, who is British, produced all eight film adaptations of J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter books. His other credits include Gravity Barbie, and the Paddington films. The announcement will only fuel the swirling speculation about who will next play James Bond, one of the most famous characters in the history of cinema.
Craig’s final Bond film, No Time to Die, was released in 2021 and earned $775
By Angelica Villanueva
KNOWN for her signature voice in commercials and online content, content creator Inka Magnaye took on a new challenge—acting on the big screen. After appearing in the mystery series Senior High and High Street, Inka made her film debut in The Caretakers, a psychological thriller starring Iza Calzado and Dimples Romana.
Inka has built a career using her voice, but stepping in front of the camera is a different experience. In an exclusive interview with Manila Standard Entertainment during the film’s premiere night, the newbie actress dove into what it means to be empowered.
“I feel really empowered every time I do something that I love, and I’m able to help people through that,” she said.
The transition from voice acting to live-action performance is a significant shift, but for
her, it’s another avenue to express herself.
While The Caretakers is her first movie, Inka is familiar with being in the public eye. She knows the challenges women face, especially in today’s digital world.
“Being a woman in today’s world means that you need to be more vigilant, you need to really be alert and aware of how you carry yourself,” she shared.
WOMEN leaders at EY Global Delivery Services (GDS) are finding ways to thrive professionally while pursuing personal passions, reflecting a growing emphasis on well-being, diversity and inclusion at the global professional services organization.
Priyanka Chaudhry, EY GDS Tax leader, has combined her role in the company with her advocacy for education and economic inclusion. She supports not-for-profit groups and programs such as the EY Entrepreneur Access Network, working to create opportunities for women and entrepreneurs.
“I’m fortunate to work for an organization that aligns with my
“No matter what we do, we are always going to be wrong in some people’s eyes. But it doesn’t mean that we are actually wrong—it’s just how they perceive us,” added Inka. Throughout her journey, she shared that many women have inspired her.
personal values,” Chaudhry said. “It’s a mix of personal passions, career growth and community involvement.”
In the Philippines, Cyndie Bondoc a Financial Accounting Advisory Services manager, credits the company’s flexible work initiatives for helping her balance motherhood and her career.
“EY’s Thrive Time initiative allows me to be present for my child’s milestones while honing skills useful in my profession,” she said. Bondoc encourages working mothers to focus on self-care to manage family and work responsibilities effectively. For others, creative pursuits offer
THE National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) and Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. (KCFI) have just launched four new TV shows under “NCCT Originals” that champion self-empowerment among Filipino youth.
The new shows are Lakbay Isip , Tropa Peeps OK AKO, and Friendship Puzzles , which will tackle pressing issues on mental health, sexual abuse, and self-empowerment that affect Filipino youth today.
Funded by the National Endowment Fund for Children’s Television (NEFCTV), the shows will air on Knowledge Channel every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
“As they say, it takes a village to raise a child, and as I have lived throughout my life, there have been many women who each have imparted some lesson that has helped me grow into the woman that I am today,” she stated.
As she embarked on this new career path, Inka expressed her hopes to remind Filipino women of their inner strength.
“Pre-colonial Filipino women—we were leaders, wise women, warriors. And we still are. You just have to discover that,” continued Inka.
balance. Ronne Rochelle “Mapet” Retumban, executive director at EY GDS Philippines Tax, turns to art and
craftsmanship—including painting, sketching and cross-stitching—to recharge.
“It’s therapeutic, especially while listening to podcasts,” she said. “Like my cross-stitch, work also requires perseverance and accountability, regardless of the task’s size.”
Travel provides inspiration for Corine Punzalan, assistant audit manager at EY GDS Philippines
Assurance. She said watching sunsets during her travels helps her manage the pressure of audit deadlines.
“These moments of calm remind me to bring that same perspective into my work life,” Punzalan said, adding that initiatives like “Assurance Wellness Buddies” help promote well-being among teams.
EY GDS, part of the Big Four network, employs more than 70,000 people worldwide. The company said it continues to support women as they pursue careers, personal goals, and community work.
KCFI president and executive director Rina Lopez emphasized the significance of this collaboration. She said, “These programs of NCCT Originals align with our mission to provide educational and enriching content that helps young people navigate life’s complexities.”
With a goal of making a meaningful impact, these four new programs offer diverse storytelling formats designed to resonate with young audiences while promoting positive values and raising awareness of critical social issues.
Lakbay Isip is a live-action animated web series following a teenage artist navigating
post-pandemic adolescence with the help of her imaginary alter egos, while Tropa Peeps blends scripted drama and expert interviews to shed light on sexual abuse and exploitation among teenage boys.
Meanwhile, OK AKO presents a light drama trilogy infused with comedy and spoken word poetry, tackling mental health struggles among youth, and Friendship Puzzles explores scientific insights on mental health intertwined with real-life stories, focusing on depression, anxiety, and suicide prevention.
Knowledge Channel is available on digital free TV, cable, direct-to-home satellite DTT,
and online streaming through iWantTFC. For more information on KCFI, visit www.knowledgechannel.org or follow @ knowledgechannel on Facebook, @kchonline on X, and @knowledgechannelofficial on TikTok.
‘Lakbay Isip’ is a live-action animated web series that chronicles the journey of a teenage artist as she navigates the challenges of post-pandemic adolescence, aided by her imaginary alter ego
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
By Nickie Wang
’VE always believed that finding the right scent is like finding a piece of yourself. So when I heard about the Scentsorium Fragrance Fest at SM Mega Fashion Hall, I knew I had to experience it.
For five days (March 12 to 16), the place turned into a scentfilled wonderland where perfumes, astrology, and personal stories came together.
The event was hosted by Erika Kristensen, who welcomed everyone as we explored five days of discovering scents that matched our personality and zodiac sign. Tables filled with luxury and popular brands lined the hall. I saw names like Tom Ford, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Calvin Klein, Maison Margiela, and many more. There were also well-loved brands like Avon, Body Fantasies, Fresh, and Luxe Organix. It felt like walking through a giant perfume store where you could smell and try everything. What made it special was how they connected the scents to the zodiac signs. As a water sign, I found myself drawn to soft floral scents filled with roses and white flowers—perfect for my emotional and romantic side. Meanwhile, fire signs like Aries and Leo were all about the strong spicy and sweet scents, showing off their bold energy. Air signs went for fresh citrus smells, while earth signs
By Jasper Valdez
FOR many Filipino working students, earning a college degree is no longer enough. They need skills—specific, practical, and jobready—to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market.
This was one of the talking points at the media launch of the first #WorkingStudentsDayPH, organized by Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC) last March 18 at Honeycomb Manila. Bringing together educators, employers, and advocates, the event spotlighted the realities of working students and how flexible, skillsbased education can open new paths forward.
MMDC’s VP for Marketing and Admissions, Jenny Chua , said the school’s flexible model is designed with working students in mind.
“We launched MMDC to serve the underserved—working students who need to balance school, work,
and life,” she said.
“That’s why we’re fully online. It gives students access to education wherever they are.”
MMDC’s upgraded model, dubbed
“MMDC 2.0,” includes AI-driven coaching and microcredentials focusing on in-demand roles like virtual assistance, digital marketing, and IT.
The school has partnered with global brands such as Meta, Google, and IBM to align course offerings with industry needs.
“It’s not just about the diploma anymore,” Chua said. “It’s about whether you have the skills that employers are looking for.”
This shift toward skills-first education echoes the findings of a recent survey by Nerve and MMDC.
Over 86 percent of respondents said they wanted to upskill, but many cited time and cost as barriers. Short courses and microcredentials, which require less time and money than a full degree, have emerged
stayed with rich woody ones. It felt fun and personal, like every perfume told a story about who you are. One of the things I enjoyed most was the tarot reading station. They had TheBlessedBhie from TikTok reading cards and suggesting scents based on our energy. It felt like the universe was picking a perfume just for me. After that, we had a chance to make our own bottles extra special. We could add our names or short messages through engraving, and if you spent P5,000, you got a custom-painted bottle. I watched as artists turned simple perfume bottles into little works of art. Before leaving, I made sure to stop by the photo booth. It was a nice way to remember the experience—not just as a shopping trip, but as a personal journey to find the scent that felt like me. If you missed it, don’t worry. You can still visit any SM Beauty store and go on your own scent journey. With so many fragrances to choose from, there’s always one waiting to match your mood, your vibe, or even your star sign. You might just find your signature scent—one that feels like it was meant for you.
practical solutions.
Nerve strategist Joaquin Mercado said the demand is clear.
“Students and workers aren’t lacking ambition. They’re just limited by time and financial pressures,” he said.
“They want flexibility and realworld learning that fits into their lives.”
TV host and education advocate Bianca Gonzalez, who shared her own story as a former working student, emphasized the urgency of continuous learning.
“The jobs five years from now
don’t even exist yet,” she said. “If we don’t keep learning, we’ll be left behind.”
Employers are also adapting to the changing times. Assistant Vice President at McDonald’s Philippines, Adi Hernandez, said their partnership with MMDC supports crew members who want to grow professionally.
“We’ve seen how microcredentials can complement our own training,” she said. “Education and employment should go hand in hand.”
Media organizations are joining
in, too. Jene-Anne Pangue , training coordinator at Rappler, said they offer online learning and fellowships to help students develop digital and reporting skills.
“We want to support learners with values, not just technical skills,” she said.
For MMDC, the goal is to bridge the gap between education and employability.
“We’re here to empower students—not just to graduate, but to succeed in the workforce,” Chua said.