Manila Standard - 2025 April 8 - Tuesday

By Charles Dantes and Vito Barcelo

Carnage in global markets continues Marcos economic team to meet today

ASIAN and European equities collapsed on a black Monday for markets after China hammered the United States with its own hefty tariffs, ramping up a trade war many fear could spark a recession.

Motive behind 3 Pinoys’ arrest still unclear

By Charles Dantes and Rex Espiritu

MALACAÑANG said it has yet to come up with definitive proof that the arrests of three Filipinos in China were Beijing’s retaliation for the recent rounding up of several alleged Chinese spies in the Philippines, even while it did not close the door on the possibility.

The Palace’s statement came on the heels of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reporting that one of its vessels barely escaped a collision with an aggressive Chinese ship, underscoring the strained relations between the two Asian states.

“There is no concrete evidence yet if it is really retaliation or a part of retaliation of the other country,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro told reporters in a briefing on Monday.

“We will not say that [it was not retaliatory] because there is no final investigation on that matter [yet],” she added.

view. Dave Leprozo

PH, US kick off aerial wargames; allies present as observers

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) are honing their abilities to fight together with yesterday’s launch of the Cope Thunder Philippines (CT

Palace confident Trump hands-off in Rody’s arrest

MALACAÑANG maintains that the US will respect the Philippines’ “sovereign prerogative” regarding the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte on an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant, despite potential US sanctions. The assertion comes after Senator Ronald Dela Rosa urged US President Donald Trump to sanction those involved in Duterte’s transfer to the ICC, citing a Trump executive order that allows for economic and travel sanctions against individuals aiding ICC investigations of US citizens or allies. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that while the Philippines could fall under the purview of Trump’s February executive order, which aims to protect US allies from ICC jurisdiction, she believes the US

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. announced Monday that Qatar will no longer pursue charges against 17 Filipinos, who were detained in the Gulf state for allegedly participating in an illegal assembly. Mr. Marcos shared the development on his social media account, expressing his relief that the detained Filipinos would not face legal consequences and would

to their work in Qatar. “I am pleased to announce that Qatar will no longer pursue charges against 17 of our countrymen who were recently detained there for illegal assembly,” President Marcos said. “They will not face any penalties and will be allowed to return to their jobs,” he added. The announcement follows a discussion between President Marcos and Qatar’s Ambassador to the Philippines

NHA operations won’t stop July 31

By Rio N. Araja

THE National Housing Authority (NHA) is confident that its operations will extend beyond its 50th anniversary on July 31.

At the Pandesal Forum in Kamuning Bakery, Quezon City, NHA General Manager Joeben Tai stated that the new NHA Charter has been approved by both Congress and the Senate, including a P10billion capital infusion in the 2025 budget.

“It is already with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” he said. “I just don’t know the schedule, but I am 100% sure that it will be signed by the President.”

When asked, he expressed satisfaction with all provisions of the Charter Renewal of the NHA, officially titled “An Act Strengthening the National Housing Authority by Extending its Corporate Term and Rationalizing its Powers, Repealing for this Purpose Presidential Decree No. 757 of 1975,” authored by Senator Imee Marcos.

The agency was established through

PD No. 757 on July 31, 1975, with the mandate to provide low-cost housing to low-income families.

The Charter Renewal will expand the Authority’s powers and functions to encompass housing operations and support services.

“Of course, we thank the House of Representatives and the Senate, wherein the new NHA Charter will include additional assistant general managers and an Office for Calamities and Disasters,” Tai said.

Yesterday, he announced the agency’s condonation program, which offers the highest amortization interest condonation in its history. This pro -

gram will waive 100% of penalties and delinquency interest from the accounts of an estimated 220,000 potential housing beneficiaries nationwide, running from May 1 to October 31.

He also mentioned that 95% of unpaid amortization interest would be condoned.

The NHA has partnered with the Department of Agriculture to establish Kadiwa centers at its resettlement sites, offering quality rice for sale at P33 per kilo.

“Our rice is of good quality and actually costs P50 a kilo, but we are offering it to our beneficiaries for only P33 a kilo,” Assistant General Manager Alvin Feliciano told the media.

Friday, China said it would impose retaliatory levies of 34 percent on all US goods from April 10.

tech firms, car makers, banks, casinos and energy firms all felt the pain as investors abandoned riskier assets.

exercise, Cordura said in a speech at the ceremony.

“Further down the road, we look forward to the seamless transition to exercise Balikatan, which will continue to push the boundaries of our interoperability,” Cordura added.

Sheppard, on the other hand, noted that “the pace of our alliance is accelerating.”

Like the majority of Balikatan’s planned activities, Cope Thunder will be conducted on northern Luzon island, the area of the Philippines closest to Taiwan.

“CT PH 25-1 will be held across key training locations in Northern Luzon, including Basa Air Base and Clark Air Base in Pampanga and Colonel Ernesto Ravina Air Base in Tarlac,” Castillo said.

For this iteration of Cope Thunder Philippines, Castillo stated that the PAF is deploying 729 personnel along with a variety of aircraft, including the FA-50PH, A-29B “Super Tucano,” S-76A, and S70i “Black Hawk” helicopters. In contrast, PACAF has sent 250 personnel and 12 F-16 fighter jets.

“The exercise will highlight field training exercises on aircraft maneuvers and tactics,” Castillo said.

For the first time, the PAF is hosting an International Observer Program (IOP) as part of the exercise, with participants from the Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Thai Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, and Indonesian Air Force.

customs regulations as be led yesterday’s inspection and condemnation at the Bureau of Customs in South Harbor, Manila.

“In 2023, we seized about P3 billion worth of smuggled vapes. That amount doubled last year, and just from January to March this year, we are well on our way to exceeding that figure,” Mr. Marcos said.

He noted that several confiscated vape products contained toxic substances in the vaping liquid that would not have passed inspection had the items entered the country legally.

“Some of these liquids were found to contain poisonous ingredients,” Mr. Marcos said.

“The packaging is clearly aimed at children, which makes it even more alarming. These products are not only unsafe—they’re clearly trying to hook our youth,” he added.

Officials also raised concern over the lack of regulation, as smuggled vapes bypass all safety checks and documentation required for legal entry into the country.

“We do not know the manufacturing process or whether these products are safe. That’s what makes them so dangerous,” the President said.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said the seized goods were the result of 10 operations conducted throughout 2024 across various areas in Metro Manila.

These were led by the Manila International Container Port (MICP), Port of Manila (POM), and the BOC Intelligence Group, which played a crucial role in identifying and intercepting the illegal shipments.

“These products not only violate customs laws but pose serious risks to consumer health. Today’s condemnation is a clear message to smugglers that the government is relentless in its pursuit of lawful trade,” Rubio said.

The Philippines is currently seeing a sharp increase in the use of vapes or e-cigarettes among young people.

The 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) estimated that one in seven students aged 13-15 currently use e-cigarettes.

Data from the National Nutrition Survey in 2019 also indicated that 44 percent of vapers are non-smokers.

A report in Research and Markets, the world’s leading market research store, also showed that the Philippines e-cigarette and vape market is seen to reach $345.6 million by 2030.

points to close at 5,822.85, the lowest in 2.5 years.

Roque said she already signified a meeting with her counterpart in the US to discuss ways forward on bilateral trade relations of the two countries.

‘ASEAN must stand firm together’

The economic managers’ meeting will take place following Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s call for Southeast Asian countries to “stand firm together” after they were among the hardest hit by US tariffs.

“We must stand firm together as ASEAN with a population of 640 million and an economic strength that is among the top in the world,” Anwar said at a prime minister’s department staff meeting.

Southeast Asian economic ministers will hold a meeting Thursday to discuss the tariffs.

Trading floors were overcome by a wave of selling Monday as investors fled to the hills, with Hong Kong’s loss of 13 percent its worst in nearly three decades ince October 1997 during the Asian financial crisis, while Frankfurt dived 10 percent, Taipei 9.7 percent and Tokyo almost eight percent.

Futures for Wall Street’s markets were also taking another drubbing, while commodities slumped.

US President Donald Trump sparked a market meltdown last week when he unveiled sweeping tariffs against US trading partners for what he said was years of being ripped off and claimed that governments were lining up to cut deals with Washington.

But after Asian markets closed on

Beijing also imposed export controls on seven rare earth elements, including gadolinium -- commonly used in MRIs—and yttrium, utilized in consumer electronics.

Bitter medicine

Trump, however, doubled down on his demand to slash deficits with trading partners, saying he would not cut any deals unless that was resolved.

“Sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something,” said Trump, whose administration has shrugged off the market panic.

He told reporters aboard Air Force One that world leaders were “dying to make a deal.”

“I spoke to a lot of leaders, European, Asian, from all over the world. They’re dying to make a deal,” he said.

“And I said, we’re not going to have deficits with your country. We’re not going to do that, because to me a deficit is a loss. We’re going to have surpluses or at worst, going to be breaking even,” Trump added.

US officials said more than 50 countries have reached out to Trump to negotiate.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told NBC’s Meet the Press that Trump has “created maximum leverage for himself.”

“I think we’re going to have to see what the countries offer and whether it’s believable,” Bessent said.

Other countries have been “bad actors for a long time and it’s not the kind of thing you can negotiate away in days or weeks,” he said.

No sector unharmed

The savage selling in Asia was across the board, with no sector unharmed—

Among the biggest losers, Chinese ecommerce titans Alibaba tanked more than 17 percent and rival JD.com shed 14 percent, while Japanese tech investment giant SoftBank dived more than 11 percent and Sony gave up nine percent.

“(Trump) won’t let it go, he’s making a mess,” said a retiree surnamed Lee. “Everyone around me is losing money.”

Shanghai shed more than seven percent, with China’s state-backed fund Central Huijin Investment vowing to help ensure “stable operations” of the market.

Singapore plunged nearly eight percent, while Seoul gave up more than five percent, triggering a so-called sidecar mechanism—for the first time in eight months—that briefly halted some trading.

Sydney, Wellington, Manila and Mumbai were also deep in the red, while London and Paris both dropped more than six percent at the open.

Recession warning

“We could see a recession happen very quickly in the US, and it could last through the year or so, it could be rather lengthy,” said Steve Cochrane, chief AsiaPacific economist at Moody’s Analytics.

“If there’s a recession in the US, of course, China will feel it as well because demand for its goods will be hit even harder,” he added.

Concerns about demand saw oil prices sink more than three percent at one point Monday, having dropped around seven percent Friday. Both main contracts are now sitting at their lowest levels since 2021.

Copper—a vital component for energy storage, electric vehicles, solar panels and wind turbines—also extended losses.

With AFP

Ahmed Saad Nasser Abdullah Al Homidi. The Filipino leader thanked the Qatari government for its understanding and cooperation in resolving the matter.

The detained Filipinos had been held in Qatar after their arrest for allegedly participating in unauthorized protests during the birthday of former President Rodrigo Duterte on March 28, 2025.

Earlier, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed Monday that the case against 17 Filipino nationals detained in Qatar has been dismissed, with the workers now free to resume their lives, either in Qatar or back home in the Philippines.

In a press briefing in Malacañang, Castro said the case against the workers initially believed to involve “illegal assembly,” was officially dropped following direct talks between President Marcos and Qatari officials.

“Yes, this is great news for us,” Castro said during the press briefing.

“It shows how fast our President works, contrary to some who claim nothing is happening in our country. This was personally handled by the President to ensure that our 17 compatriots in Qatar would receive the assistance they needed,” she added.

When asked if President Marcos had issued specific guidance on the matter, Castro confirmed that he had directed agencies to ensure full support for the detained Filipinos.

“There is always an instruction to help our Filipino citizens abroad facing this kind of charges,” the Palace spokesperson said.

“Legal assistance will always be given. All the necessary help and assistance will be provided,” she added.

Castro said the government is deferring to the Departments of Foreign Affairs and National Defense for updates, as investigations are still ongoing.

Earlier, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año raised concerns that the accusations of espionage leveled against the three Filipinos, whose names have not been officially released, may be retaliatory.

Chinese state media later aired edited video clips allegedly showing the individuals confessing to espionage activities.

Philippine government officials pointed out that the footage appeared scripted and riddled with inconsistencies.

Meanwhile, maritime tensions flared up again when a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel executing “reckless and dangerous maneuvers” nearly collided with the PCG’s BRP Cabra.

In a statement released Monday, the PCG said the CCG ship came danger-

ously close to the Filipino vessel, raising navigational safety concerns.

“An alarming incident this afternoon involved an attempted head-on collision with the smaller PCG vessel,” PCG spokesperson for WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela said of the encounter that happened near Capones Island in San Antonio, Zambales.

He noted that such actions violate the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), to which both the Philippines and China are signatories.

Despite the incident, PCG said the BRP Cabra continued its patrol and monitored the Chinese vessel, which later moved to a position approximately 92 to 96 nautical miles from Capones Island.

acknowledges the Philippines’ right to act independently.

Castro cited a portion of the executive order stating, “The United States remains committed to the accountability and to the peaceful cultivation of international order at the ICC. And the parties to the Rome Statute must expect the decisions of the United States and other countries not to subject their personnel to the ICC’s jurisdiction consistent with their respective sovereign prerogatives.”

“This means the US respects the prerogatives of its allies,” Castro explained, arguing that the US would not interfere with the Philippines’ decision to cooperate with Interpol and implement its own laws, such as Republic Act 9851.

Castro dismissed Dela Rosa’s call for sanctions, stating, “I see no reason for Senator Bato to go to the US and ask for help to freeze the assets of the owner of the aircraft.” This statement directly contradicts Dela Rosa’s warning to the owner of the Gulfstream G550 jet, RP-C5219, used to transport Duterte to The Hague, to “prepare for the repercussions of his actions.” Senator Imee Marcos meanwhile revealed that the same jet has been frequently used by her brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Visayas schools halt classes due to heat

By Caloy Lozada

ATOTAL of 123 schools in Western Visayas suspended onsite classes on Monday, due to the dangerously high heat index forecast in the region, in line with a recent directive from the Department of Education (DepEd) on class suspensions during extreme weather.

According to DepEd Western Visayas Regional Information Officer Hernani Escullar Jr., 56 schools in the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Himamaylan City, one school under SDO Iloilo, and 66 in SDO Iloilo City shifted to Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) to ensure learning continuity.

The decision follows a two-day forecast from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), which projected that heat index levels could exceed 40°C in Iloilo and Negros Occidental, placing students and teachers at risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The DepEd is also reminding schools to monitor temperature and prioritize student safety.

The suspension of face-to-face classes was guided by DepEd Memorandum No. 017, s. 2024, which outlines protocols for halting classes and school operations during natural calamities and extreme weather—including intense heat.

The memo empowers local school authorities, in coordination with local government units, to suspend physical classes and adopt flexible learning methods when necessary.

In Iloilo City, Mayor Jerry Treñas also issued Executive Order No. 024A, mandating the automatic suspension of in-person classes from pre-school to senior high school whenever the city’s heat index reaches 41°C or higher.

The EO reinforces the city’s proactive stance in protecting students’ health amid the intensifying heat.

“In-person classes were suspended by the respective local authorities due to the anticipated extreme heat,” Escullar said. “Students will continue their lessons at home using printed modules, digital platforms, or other ADM options.”

VP back in PH after month-long stay in The Hague

By Rachelle Tonelada

AFTER staying in the Netherlands for nearly a month, Vice President Sara Duterte has returned to the Philippines, having concluded her duties at The Hague in support of her detained father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) confirmed her arrival on Sunday at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at exactly 9:56 PM (Philippine Standard Time) via Emirates Airlines flight no. EK 334.

“Following her recently concluded trip to The Hague, Kingdom of the Netherlands, which took place last 12 March 2025, the Vice President is expected to address any pertinent matters in the coming days,” the OVP said.

“For further updates, please stay tuned for official statements from the Office of the Vice President,” it added.

PhilHealth vows to hike health spending

By Ram Superable

THE Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) reaffirmed its goal to improve health coverage for all Filipinos by increasing its share of national health spending.

“We are cognizant of PhilHealth’s significant role in alleviating the still-heavy financial burdens that Filipinos face when accessing health services,” it said. In an official statement, PhilHealth said it aims to raise its share of the country’s Current Health Expenditure (CHE) to between 25% and 35% by 2028.

The move is part of efforts to reduce out-of-pocket (OOP) health expenses, which accounted for 44.4% of total health spending in 2023, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Government support, which includes PhilHealth and other programs like the Medical Assistance

for Indigent Patients (MAIP), made up 42.6% of CHE in the same year.

To meet its goal, PhilHealth plans to prioritize benefits for diseases that are both costly and widespread in the country.

“This calls for alignment with our healthcare providers, professionals, and institutions alike to ensure preparedness for the implementation of benefits, allowing our members to promptly access care and financial risk protection,” the agency noted.

PhilHealth clarified that the CHE share refers to national-level spending and is different from the specific amounts it pays for each member’s hospitalization.

It said that in the next three years, patients admitted to public or private wards should no longer face additional charges for standard ward care.

However, some OOP expenses may still arise from upgraded accommodations or specific provider

preferences not covered under standard benefits.

PhilHealth is working to limit these extra costs to reduce the number of families pushed into poverty by health-related spending.

Achieving this target, the agency said, requires strong cooperation with the Department of Health, the National Economic and Development Authority, local governments, and other sectors. “Only through synchronized efforts among government agencies could we successfully achieve health financial risk protection for every Filipino,” said PhilHealth.

PhilHealth also expressed support for Senator Pia Cayetano’s advocacy to lower health expenses and confirmed ongoing collaboration with her office. “You can be assured that PhilHealth will continue to serve so that together, we can raise the level of healthcare in the new Philippines,” the agency said.

Oil firms increase kerosene, gas prices

By Alena Mae S. Flores

OIL firms rolled back pump prices by P0.50 per liter for kerosene and P0.10 per liter for gasoline, effective 6 a.m. Tuesday, to reflect the ongoing volatility in world oil prices.

The oil price rollback for kerosene and gasoline is a reversal of previous forecasts of a possible oil price increase of up to P0.60 per liter. The oil firms, however, did not move diesel prices.

“The combination of increased oil production and a weak global economic outlook are the factors that led to the sharp decline in the prices of crude oil and refined fuel products, leading to the abrupt change in the direction of movement of domestic prices [this week],” Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas said. Bellas said last week that based on

the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) and forex average for the first four days versus last week’s full-week average, gasoline prices would likely go up by P0.50 to P0.70 per liter and diesel by P0.40 to P0.60 per liter. Jetti Petroleum, Seaoil Philippines, Petro Gazz, Chevron Philippines, PTT Philippines, and Cleanfuel issued separate advisories of the oil price rollback. Department of Energy Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) Director Rodela Romero said last week that gasoline might increase by P0.30 to P0.70 per liter and diesel by P0.20 to P0.60 per liter, while kerosene would have no adjustment or might increase or decrease by P0.20 per liter. On April 1, 2025, local oil companies implemented a price increase of P1.40 per liter for gasoline and P1.20 per liter for diesel and kerosene.

Lacuna is the third most trusted leader in Metro Manila, according to a recent Tangere survey conducted from April 2 to 4, 2025. She achieved an 80% satisfaction rating and an 81% trust rating, placing her closely behind Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto (95%) and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte (81% satisfaction, 82% trust). Lacuna’s high ratings are attributed to her healthcare reforms, including free dialysis treatment and 24/7 emergency services. Following the top three leaders are San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, Muntinlupa Mayor Rufino Biazon, Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian, Makati Mayor Abby Binay, Pateros Mayor Miguel Ponce III, and Caloocan Mayor Along Malapitan. Itchie Cabayan

NCRPO reports success in drug campaigns

THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has reported significant success in its relentless, balanced, and procedure-based campaign against illegal drugs in Metro Manila during the first quarter of 2025.

Under the leadership of Regional Director MGen Anthony Aberin, the NCRPO seized illegal narcotics valued at over P145 million and apprehended thousands of individuals involved in drug-related activities. This intensified effort underscores the NCRPO’s commitment to ensuring peace and order throughout the National Capital Region and combating the proliferation of illegal substances.

Vince Lopez

Alicia town now has new dialysis center

THE town of Alicia, Isabela, celebrated the blessing and inauguration of its newly established dialysis center on March 24.

Located at the Commercial Center in Barangay Aurora, the initiative was spearheaded by Mayor Joel Amos P. Alejandro in partnership with Dr. Gjay L. Ordinal, President of Prime Dialysis Center Inc. The event was attended by Vice Mayor Andy Bon Velasco, Municipal Tourism and Culture Council Chairperson Aida P. Alejandro, Mayor Joseph Christian Uy of Aurora, Municipal Council Members, and Department Heads. Alejandro emphasized that the dialysis center aims to make crucial medical services readily accessible to individuals undergoing dialysis treatment. He expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the center a reality. Jessica M. Bacud

DERIADA TRIBUTE. Officials of the National Book Development Board pose for a photo during the 2nd Leoncio P. Deriada Conference, which celebrated the life and work of the Father of Contemporary West Visayan Literature.

PANDAY MOTORCADE. The FPJ Panday Bayanihan party list led by its first nominee Brian Poe holds a motorcade in Daet and Labo, Camarines Norte on Saturday. His mother, Senator Grace Poe, later joined them in a rally at the Our Lady of Lourdes College also in Daet.

IN BRIEF

BI nabs German, Korean fugitives in Pampanga

TWO foreign fugitives wanted in their respective countries were arrested by Immigration operatives in separate operations in Angeles, Pampanga.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the two aliens will be deported and placed in the Immigration blacklist and barred from re-entering the country for being undesirable aliens.

“They were arrested pursuant to notices issued by the Interpol which sought the BI’s help in locating and arresting these fugitives,” the BI chief added.

Arrested in his residence in Brgy. Malabanias, Angeles City was German national Klaus Dieter Boekhoff, 60, who is wanted by authorities in his home country for involvement in Internet fraud.

Also arrested on the same day in his home at the Timog Park Homes, Angeles City was Korean national Ryu Hoijong, who is wanted by authorities in Seoul for larceny. Vito Barcelo

Bulacan Congress bet belie murder charge

A LEGISLATOR seeking reelection has dismissed as a ‘desperate act’ the the filing of attempted murder charge against him by his political rival.

Reelectionist Bulacan 6th district Rep. Salvador Pleyto also called on the public to ignore the “baseless allegations” against him.

“I strongly deny the baseless and malicious accusations made against me during a press conference held earlier today by the lawyers of our political opponents—individuals who have openly declared their political ambition to unseat me,” Pleyto said.

“I call on my fellow candidates to keep the campaign focused on platforms and performance. Let us not allow oldstyle politics, character assassination, and misinformation to take center stage. Our people deserve better,” he added. Maricel V. Cruz

NCRPO logs 23% in crime reduction

THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) reported it has attained a 23.63-percent reduction in index crimes during the first 93 days of 2025 (January 1 to April 4).

The unit attributed its robust performance to enhancing “personnel’s capabilities, intensifying proactive policing efforts, and cultivating stronger partnerships within the community.” Crime Incident Recording and Analysis (CIRA) figures revealed a significant decline in index crimes in Metro Manila, falling from 1,710 incidents during the same period last year to 1,305 this year.

The NCRPO’s overall Crime Clearance Efficiency (CCE) also surged to an impressive 99.78 percent, while the Crime Solution Efficiency (CSE) improved to 95.88 percent. Vince Lopez

Human traffickers’ ploy uses religion to avoid detection

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has uncovered another trafficking plot that involved victims posing as missionaries on an overseas trip organized by a church.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said traffickers “are now exploiting religion to avoid detection.”

The discovery was uncovered after immigration officers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) 3 caught passengers trying to disguise themselves off as members of a Church Missionary group.

The BI’s Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section (IPROBES) intercepted the three women, aged 23, 25, and 50, who attempted to board a Scoot Airlines flight to Singapore, connecting to Thailand. The alleged female trafficker and her victims claimed to be full-time church volunteers designated for a missionary mission in Thailand. However, discrepancies in their documents raised suspicions. On interrogation, the two victims confessed they were not part of a missionary group but licensed teachers recruited for illegal employment at a school in Thailand.

The duo admitted they had been recruited by the woman they were traveling with, who posed as the founder and head preacher of their purported congregation.

The victims also disclosed they had not yet been hired and were asked to prepare employment documents like their transcripts, in case the school decided to employ them.

PH, Finland eye rules-based regional defense partnership

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippines looks forward to stronger defense collaboration with Finland.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. raised this sentiment during a meeting with Finnish Ambassador to Manila Saija Nurminen on April 2, according to Department of National Defense (DND) spokesman Assistant Secre -

Binay says rigid security in schools unnecessary

By Joel E. Zurbano

MAKATI City mayor and senatorial candidate Abigail Binay has called for prudence in responding to recent violent occurrences in public schools in Metro Manila, saying overly stringent security measures would do more harm than good.

Binay made the statement in response to viral videos of violence involving students in public schools that have been linked to bullying.

She said resorting to body searches and other tough measures similar to airport security protocols would create a culture of fear among students.

“Schools should not feel like a war zone. We don’t want to create a culture where children feel fear when they go to school,” Binay stressed.

She also noted that unlike in the United States, there have been no mass shooting incidents in schools in the country.

“The recent incidents are isolated cases and do not warrant extreme measures,” Binay added.

She called on school administrators, faculty, community leaders, parents and guardians to work together in keeping schools “safe havens for learning”, particularly through the effective implementation of the Anti-Bullying Act.

“The task of keeping our schools safe havens for learning entails sustained and strategic collaboration among all stakeholders. These include the school administrators, teachers, security guards, parents and guardians, and even the barangay peace and order personnel and the police,” Binay said.

tary Arsenio Andolong.

“Secretary Teodoro remarked that Finland’s geography and history have cultivated its robust resilience to threat actors within its region. He noted that this has led to Finland’s advanced capabilities in securing its defense supply chains,” Andolong said.

Nurminen expressed Finland’s willingness to cooperate with like-minded countries, like the Philippines, that uphold a rules-based international order.

“She mentioned that Nokia, a known Finn -

ish multinational company, is interested in supporting the Philippines’ Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Program,” Andolong said.

He also said the meeting concluded with Teodoro expressing the DND’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Finland. He emphasized potential collaboration aligned with the Philippines’ Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, particularly in areas related to defense supply chain management.

PBBM intervention sought to hasten P200-wage hike

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE chairman of the House Labor and Employment Committee appealed to President Marcos to intervene on the issue of the proposed legislated wage hike for minimum wage earners by certifying it as urgent. Meanwhile, the minimum fare for the Light Rail Transit Line-1 increased from P15 to P20 yesterday, with the maximum fare for a singlejourney ticket rising from P45 to P55.

“I believe we are now at the point where we need executive action.

UNWANTED ALIEN. Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla presents to reporters Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, a Russian-American who went viral for his internet posts showing him in unruly behaviour at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City. The foreigner is currently facing deportation proceedings. Manny Palmero

LAWYER-CANDIDATE WHIPS UP PROTESTS. Militant women’s group GABRIELA stages a protest action and files a complaint at the Supreme Court against lawyer and congressional candidate for Pasig City Christian Sia for alleged sexist comments against solo parents. Norman Cruz

FINNISH ENVOY. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. welcomes Finland ambassador to Manila Saija Nurminen who calls on him at the Department of National Defense headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. DND photo

OPINION

Duterte’s case is predictable

ASIDE from what has been published in the newspapers that the defense lawyers of former President Duterte claim Duterte was “kidnapped,” a claim the International Criminal Court has no jurisdiction over Duterte and accusation the Philippines surrendered its sovereignty to the ICC, now the defense lawyer Nicholas Kaufman is thinking of seeking the interim release of Duterte now that he is in the custody of the ICC.

Kaufman said it is the right of the accused to seek interim release, Santa Banana!

Kaufman said this right can be negated if, first, the accused is a flight risk, second, the accused interfered with the evidence of witnesses, and, third, the accused can continue to commit the crimes he had been accused of, like continuing crimes against humanity.

The way I look at all the defense moves to defend Duterte, I have my doubts that Duterte would ever be released, even on an interim basis by the ICC prior to the pre-trial and the trial itself of Duterte in September, my gulay!

The political issue is entirely different from what can happen at the ICC as the defense lawyers are well aware of, like all the continuing rallies by Duterte supporters and allies.

With midterm elections now at fever pitch, I have personal doubts those allies in favor of Duterte will continue rallying and supporting him.

But, what I am concerned about is the continuing disagreement between the President and his sister, Senator Imee Marcos and to what extent it can affect the political situation. It could even have a negative effect on Imee’s reelection at the rate her ranking in the poll surveys is getting lower and lower.

But, I believe despite the fact that Senator Imee is against her brother BBM, it remains that the administration Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas will dominate the senatorial race.

According to reliable political surveys like Pulse Asia, Social Weather Stations and OCTA, Alyansa will continue to dominate the Senate Race. But

the people are more interested about the results of the local election.

As for Duterte’s future in connection with his crimes against humanity, let’s leave all that to the ICC.

But, the way I see it, it is all the fault of Duterte himself. He dug himself into a hole with his brutal and bloody war against illegal drugs. From my point of view, the hole he dug is so deep he won’t be able to extricate himself out of it.

What we all are now seeing is like watching a teleserye, where the final episode is predictable

An interim release of Duterte is a remote possibility, not with all the evidence against the accused in connection with the infamous Davao Death Squad and in connection with some over 140 cases of EJKs or Extrajudicial Killings during Duterte’s brutal and bloody war on illegal drugs.

An interim release would send the wrong message that the arrest of Duterte would be meaningless, my gulay!

As a lawyer myself, I look at Duterte’s arrest as a message the International Criminal Court has in its possession more than enough evidence already to prove the accused is guilty as charged , Santa Banana!

Sources told me many of the witnesses, including the relatives of those who were victims of EJK, are in fact already ready to appear in person before the ICC.

I don’t know too much about how the ICC would follow the rule of the court, but I am sure the ICC will observe the usual rules of court like what is being observed in any court of law.

What we all are now seeing iis like watching a teleserye, where the final episode is predictable.

P75-m heist

IF YOU think the biggest threat to justice comes from criminals, think again. In a raid gone disastrously wrong, 31 police officers from the National Capital Region Police Office allegedly walked away with ₱75 million in loot—after disabling CCTVs, cracking a vault, and leaving behind a negotiation note like it was just another day on the job. This isn’t a bad apple—it’s rot at the root. Let’s tear into the legal and institutional decay using Philippine jurisprudence and a furious sense of civic duty.

1. Crooked cops, criminal cash

The officers’ actions scream theft under Article 308 of the Revised Penal Code: taking personal property without consent, with intent to gain. Scooping ₱75 million in cash, $430,000, 110,000 Malaysian dollars, and a Gucci bag stuffed with bling—necklaces, wristwatches, gold longevity locks—checks every box.

But did it escalate to robbery under Article 294, RPC? If they used force to breach that vault (and the report’s vagueness here begs for deeper probing), the penalty jumps from six months to life imprisonment. Either way, the intent blazes through: disabling CCTVs isn’t the act of bumbling Keystone Cops—it’s a calculated cover-up.

Then there’s Republic Act 3019, Section 3(e)—the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act’s catch-all for corrupt cops. By abusing their authority to raid a home, arrest the wrong guy, and pocket the loot, these officers caused “undue injury” with “evident bad faith.” Supreme Court in Lihaylihay v. People (G.R. No. 233561, March 20, 2019): Public officers exploiting their position for personal gain face up to 15 years in jail.

RA 6713’s ethical mandate: Public officials must uphold integrity—yet the “call me to negotiate” stunt reeks of extortion.

RA 9160 (Anti-Money Laundering Act): The foreign currency haul

($430,000 + 110,000 Malaysian dollars) could trigger an AMLC investigation.

2. Procedural trainwrecks

This operation was a procedural dumpster fire from the jump: Rule 113, Section 5 of the Rules of Court: Arrests must be lawful—officers must identify themselves, state the cause, and serve a valid warrant. Instead, they nabbed the wrong Chinese national under RA 10591 (Firearms Law).

This P75 million heist isn’t an anomaly; it’s a symptom of a force where badges too often double as bandit masks

Supreme Court in People v. Mapa (G.R. L-22301, Aug.30, 1967): Shredded sloppy warrant executions—no verification, no legitimacy. Constitutional Breach (Article III, Section 1, 1987 Constitution): Guarantees speedy disposition—yet the suspect was dragged from EPD to Las Piñas police well past the 36-hour inquest window. No body cameras? A violation of PNP Operational Manual standards and RA 6713’s accountability mandate.

Supreme Court in Carpio Morales v. CA (G.R. 217126-27, Nov. 10, 2015): Public officers dodging oversight invite suspicion.

3. Command responsibility

Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin’s “investigate the superiors” order must have teeth.

Executive Order 226 (1995): Codifies command responsibility—superiors are liable if they knew or should’ve known and failed to act.

EPD director, Brig. Gen. Villamor Tuliao, claiming ignorance is no defense—

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of a vlogger or a streamer being kicked out from an open door. The door is at the right of the panel. The vlogger is flying across to the left side of the panel. The vlogger is dressed in shorts with a colorful shirt. The shirt has a pattern of cartoon dirty garbage cans. His shorts’ pockets are filled with trash like refuse, banana peels, junk, and crumpled papers. There is a scroll unraveled at his pocket labeled “shock tactics.” There are flies all over the vlogger. He is carrying a mobile phone with a selfie stick.

Amid rising tensions

THE covenant between the Philippines and the United States for the latter to sell 20 F-16 Block 70/72 fighter jets to the former may raise eyebrows at home, where government critics suggest other priorities it should attend to.

We will not run through what policy makers have on their table. Surely they have considered every letter of government plans which may include marginal notes by the military’s commander-in-chief who has all intelligence information for his appreciation.

The move by Washington for the $5.58 billion deal was announced by the State Department on April 2, aimed at buoying up its major Southeast Asian ally amid rising regional tensions.

Despite its age, the F-16 remains a vital asset in many air forces around the world, including the US Air Force, and is not considered obsolete.

Military sources say the Block 70/72 variants are considered among the most advanced fourth-generation fighters, with Lockheed Martin stating they are the world’s most advanced fourth-generation fighter.

The F-16 fighter-jets, and other defense equipment, may be available for delivery in tranches starting next year, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said this week..

If the F16s are affordable for the

it’s an indictment.

Supreme Court’s Ombudsman v. Mendoza (G.R. 219772, July 17, 2019): Superiors can’t feign blindness to systemic rot.

4. Fix the system

Immediate Fixes

Prosecute the 31: File theft (or robbery), RA 3019, and AMLA charges pronto. No plea deals—let the courts sort it.

Sack the Slackers: Administrative sanctions under PNP Disciplinary Rules—dismissal for grave misconduct—must hit the eight direct culprits and any complicit superiors. Freeze the Loot: Seize the ₱75 million, foreign cash, and bling via a court order. If it’s dirty money, AMLC should trace it.

Systemic Overhauls Mandatory Body Cams: No excuses— equip every officer and enforce use, with penalties for tampering (looking at you, CCTV killers). The PNP’s 2021 body cam rollout flopped; make it stick this time.

Real-Time Ops Tracking: GPS and

Philippines – potentially the most ambitious, most expensive acquisition – on the frontline of conflicts in the West Philippine Sea, well within its the 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone, and with the approval of Congress and the President, the purchase will become part of the AFP modernization program.

Despite its age, the F-16 remains a vital asset in many air forces around the world

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a highly versatile, single-engine, supersonic, multi-role fighter aircraft, originally developed for the US Air Force, and has seen widespread use by the US and its allies in various conflicts, including the Israeli-Syrian conflict of 1982 and the Gulf War of 1990-91.

Defense analysts say a closer look reveals an intriguing twist: the price tag per F-16—averaging $279 million

live reporting to a central command hub. No more “oops, we forgot to tell the boss” nonsense. Warrant Vetting: Triple-check identities and AORs before raids. A wrongperson arrest isn’t a glitch; it’s a disgrace.

Cultural Reckoning Ethics Boot Camp: Overhaul: PNP training to kill the “kotong” mindset. RA 6713 isn’t optional—drill it into every recruit. Whistleblower Shields: Protect rankand-file who snitch on crooked peers. Silence fueled this heist; break it. Loony loot licks The ₱12M “Bribe” Farce: The officers’ claim the family offered ₱12 million stinks of desperation. The Las Piñas chief’s skepticism—“why the delay if true?”—nails it: this is a Hail Mary to dodge the theft rap. Prove it or shut it. Vault-Looting Theatrics: Disabling CCTVs and cracking a vault isn’t spon-

when factoring in the full package— nears the cost of the cutting-edge F-35, raising questions about value, economics, and the shifting dynamics of global arms markets.

The transaction, which includes advanced weaponry and support systems, was certified to the US Congress by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, marking a significant step in modernizing the Philippine Air Force.

At first glance, this appears to be a standard military sale to enhance a partner’s defense capabilities, particularly in the contested South China Sea on the west shoreline of the Philippines where China Coast Guard and their vessels have in recent months repeatedly harassed Philippine boats on humanitarian mission and Filipino fishermen.

With a top speed exceeding Mach 2 and a combat radius of over 500 miles (800 kms), the Block 70/72 variant can handle air superiority, ground strikes, and maritime patrols—missions critical for the Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands facing both internal insurgencies and external pressures.

Compared to rivals like Russia’s Su-35, which boasts greater maneuverability and a larger payload, or China’s J-10C, a nimble single-engine fighter with indigenous stealth features, the F-16 Block 70/72 holds its own through reliability and interoperability with U.S. systems.

taneous—it’s a heist script. This wasn’t cops serving a warrant; it was robbers flashing badges. Foreign Cash Twist: That $430,000 and 110,000 Malaysian dollars haul isn’t just greed—it’s a potential AMLA red flag. Were they raiding a money laundering den, or just stumbled into one? Either way, the PNP’s in over its head. Clean-up or cover-up?

The NCRPO’s “clean-up” of 31 rogue cops is a start, but don’t hold your breath for real change. The PNP’s been staging these mea culpas for decades—photo ops of sacked officers, promises of reform, rinse, repeat. This ₱75 million heist isn’t an anomaly; it’s a symptom of a force where badges too often double as bandit masks. So here’s the gut punch: Is the PNP’s ‘clean-up’ merely theatrical, or will it finally address the rot within? Until the brass stops dodging and the system gets a spine, don’t bet on it.

2nd US child dies of measles, almost 650 ill

IN BRIEF

Charles III shrugs off health scare

LONDON – King Charles III arrives in Italy on Monday for a four-day visit where he will become the first UK monarch to address Italy’s joint parliament, but will not meet Pope Francis due to the pontiff’s health issues.

The trip comes 10 days after Charles, 76, had his own health scare, being admitted to hospital after experiencing temporary side effects from his cancer treatment.

Royal sources cited by the UK media said the king was “raring to go” on the trip, during which he will also celebrate his 20th wedding anniversary with wife Camilla. Charles, who is the head of the Church of England, was scheduled to meet Pope Francis on Tuesday.

But the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church is recovering from life-threatening pneumonia at his Vatican home, where doctors say he will need at least two months of convalescence, forcing the king to reschedule his plans. AFP

Haiti jazz festival respite off violence

PORT-AU-PRINCE – Residents of Haiti’s gang-plagued capital could enjoy a brief escape from daily lives scarred with violence this weekend as the PapJazz festival entertained around 100 music fans.

Postponed in 2022 and moved to northern city Cap-Haitien the following year over security fears, the celebration returned to Port-au-Prince last year in a cutdown, four-day format.

This year’s 18th edition of PapJazz was further truncated to just two days in the Karibe Hotel, which hosts some UN offices, and the Quartier Latin restaurant.

Lively jazz, Haitian “rara” carnival music, rap and slam poetry all performed by local artists set the atmosphere abuzz on Saturday night. Organizers were unable to host foreign performers this year as the airport has been closed since November 11 due to gang violence. AFP

China would have agreed to TikTok deal, says Trump

WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump said Sunday (Monday in Manila) that China would have agreed to a deal on the sale of TikTok if it were not for the tariffs imposed by Washington on Beijing last week. Trump on Friday extended the deadline for TikTok to find a non-Chinese buyer or face a ban in the United States, allowing 75 more days to find a solution — a day after imposing additional 34 percent duties on all Chinese imports.

“The report is that we had a deal, pretty much for TikTok, not a deal, but pretty close, and then China changed the deal because of tariffs. If I gave a little cut in tariffs, they’d approve that deal in 15 minutes, which shows you the power of tariffs,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. The hugely popular video-sharing app, which has more than 170 million American users, is under threat from a US law passed last year that orders TikTok to split from its Chinese owner ByteDance or get shut down in the United States. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – A measles outbreak has killed a second child in the southwestern United States, authorities said Sunday (Monday Manila time), with almost 650 people now infected as the highly contagious disease spreads.

“We are deeply saddened to report that a school-aged child who was recently diagnosed with measles has passed away,” Aaron Davis, vice president of UMC Health System, a medical center in Texas, told AFP.

CONTAGIOUS DISEASE. In this file

photo, signs point the way to measles testing in the parking lot of the Seminole Hospital District across from Wigwam Stadium on Feb. 27, 2025 in Seminole, Texas. A measles outbreak has killed a second child in the southwestern United States, authorities said Mpnday, with almost 650 people now infected as the highly contagious disease spreads. As the US grapples with its worst measles outbreak in years, President Donald Trump’s health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has alarmed health experts with his past rhetoric downplaying the importance of vaccines. AFP

Carney, Poilievre face off nationally, locally

OTTAWA – In a quaint restaurant on the outskirts of Canada’s capital, Sandra McCormack spent a recent morning talking politics with friends in an area suddenly in the political spotlight.

The area’s neighboring electoral districts -- Carleton and Nepean -- are starkly different: Carleton is largely rural, picturesque and dotted with small farms, while Nepean is a suburban Ottawa neighborhood, packed with strip malls and single family homes.

But the districts have something in common ahead of Canada’s April 28 election — one of them will elect the next prime minister.

The Liberal Party leader, Prime Minister Mark Carney, is running in Nepean, while Conservative leader Pierre

Poilievre is the candidate for Carleton.

Poilievre was born in the western city of Calgary, entered politics after university, and has represented Carleton in parliament since 2004.

Over breakfast in Carleton’s Manotick area, the 77-year-old McCormack recalled the first campaign of the Tory leader, known locally as just Pierre.

“He looked like a 15-year-old,” she told AFP.

Poilievre, now 45, may be a political fixture in Carleton but this election is unlike anything he’s experienced.

He became the Conservative leader in 2022, after Canada’s last election.

He built support through 2023 and 2024 attacking former prime minister Justin Trudeau and, at the start of this year, polls

indicated he would lead the Tories back into power after a decade in opposition. But Trudeau’s departure in favor of Carney and the uncertainty gripping Canada brought on by President Donald Trump’s trade war and annexation threats have upended the race.

Most polls currently give Carney a lead.

“We normally talk about hockey, but everybody’s talking about politics nowadays because there’s an important election going on,” McCormack said.

Down the road at a busy cafe, Mel Roberts, 66, sipped his morning coffee while reading the newspaper.

“Pierre has a huge following in this area,” he told AFP, crediting Poilievre with speaking to local libertarian values. AFP

Bolsonaro whips up Sao Paulo protest rally over coup charges

SAO PAULO, Brazil – Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro rallied thousands of people Sunday (Monday Manila time) to a demonstration in Sao Paulo against charges levied by the Supreme Court that he plotted a coup.

“What these guys really want isn’t to lock me up, they want to kill me, because I’m a thorn in their throat,” Bolsonaro said of the judges, who he has accused of persecuting him.

The far-right leader’s rally brought out around 45,000 people to the financial center’s prestigious Paulista Avenue, according to a count by the University of Sao Paolo, many of them wearing the national football strip adopted by his supporters.

Street vendors were offering items including masks of US President Donald Trump, bibles and flags of Israel and the United States, whose current governments Bolsonaro frequently praises. The former president’s key demand is amnesty for those convicted of an attack

in Brasilia on January 8, 2023.

That day, thousands of his backers stormed the presidential palace, Congress and Supreme Court demanding the military oust President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva -- who had narrowly triumphed over Bolsonaro in the 2022 election.

Bolsonaro himself will face trial for an alleged coup plot after the election, the country’s Supreme Court decided last month -- a case that could torpedo his hopes of making a Donald Trump-style political comeback. It will be the first trial of an ex-leader accused of attempting to take power by force since Brazil returned to democracy in 1985 after two decades of military dictatorship.

Bolsonaro has denied the charges.

If convicted, the 70-year-old former army captain, who had nurtured hopes of standing in elections next year, risks a jail term of over 40 years, and political banishment. AFP

The child had been receiving treatment for “complications of measles” in hospital, he said, adding they were “not vaccinated against measles and had no known underlying health conditions.”

As the US grapples with its worst measles outbreak in years, President Donald Trump’s health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has alarmed health experts with his past rhetoric downplaying the importance of vaccines.

Kennedy, however, posted on X Sunday that “the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles is the MMR vaccine.”

He added that his Health and Human Services (HHS) department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were supporting distribution of the shots in Texas.

Kennedy, who said he had traveled to Texas to comfort the child’s family, also tallied “642 confirmed cases of measles across 22 states, 499 of those in Texas” as of Sunday.

Questioned by journalists aboard Air Force One, Trump appeared to downplay the outbreak as “so far a fairly small number of people relative to what we’re talking about.”

But he added that if it “progresses, we’ll have to take action very strongly,” without giving further details. The CDC has recorded cases stretching from Alaska to Florida, as well as in New York City. AFP

Boeing faces new civil trial over 2019 plane crash

NEW YORK ---Boeing is poised to face a jury trial from Monday over the fatal 2019 crash of an Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX plane, the first civil case related to the disaster to reach court. The Chicago trial, expected to last two weeks, was to feature two plaintiffs who lost family members in the calamity. But one of the complaints was resolved in an out-of-court settlement late Sunday, a judicial source told AFP, in line with most earlier litigants.

Barring another last-minute settlement, the trial will begin Monday with the selection of an eight-person jury.

“We have had some ongoing discussion that may continue throughout the day and the ensuing days,” Robert Clifford, who represents relatives of several crash victims, told the US District court on Wednesday at a pre-trial hearing. A deal could also be struck even while the trial is underway. The Boeing plane crashed on March 10, 2019, just six minutes after takeoff from Addis Ababa on its way to Kenya, killing all 157 people on board.

Relatives of 155 of the victims had sued Boeing between April 2019 and March 2021 for wrongful death, negligence and other charges. AFP

Alcaraz: Pressure of Sinner’s no. 1 ranking has ‘killed’ me

MONTE CARLO

—Carlos Alcaraz said Sunday that the pressure to reclaim the world number one ranking from the suspended Jannik Sinner has had a negative impact on his form this season.

“A lot of people are asking me, or are telling me, that I have the chance to become number one if Jannik is not playing,” Alcaraz said during a press conference at the Monte Carlo Masters.

“So probably that pressure has killed me in some way.”

The 21-year-old Spaniard added that staying at world number three has not come as a shock to him.

“I’m not surprised because the people always say that we have to win the tournaments or the top people have to be there all the time playing finals or winning tournaments,” he said.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz has endured a tough start to 2025, with his only title coming on the hard courts of Rotterdam two months ago. But the 1000 event in Monte Carlo signals the start of the clay-court season -- a surface Alcaraz has excelled on. He won the French Open last year, as well as back-to-back Madrid Masters in 2022 and 2023.

Sinner has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year.

The 23-year-old Italian is due to return in time for the Rome Open in May.

Alcaraz, currently trailing Sinner by 3,610 points in the rankings, said he has at peace with not usurping the

Italian as the world’s best player.

“I’m just thinking that I’m not able to become number one... in the clay season, even if Jannik is not playing, I don’t have the chance to do it,” he said.

“I think I’m too far from Jannik.

So I’m just here and I realise that I don’t have to think about it and just go there and play.

“That’s my mindset right now.”

After being eliminated on his debut in 2022 and withdrawing from the last two editions, Alcaraz has

yet to win a match on the Monte Carlo clay. Given a bye for the first round, he will seek to end that streak when he takes on the winner of round of 64 match between Francisco Cerundolo and Fabio Fognini. AFP

Bautista wins Burbank singles’ tennis title

ANOTHER Filipina tennis player did the country proud in the international sports scene.

Young sensation Sandra Bautista hacked out a convincing victory, defeating California bet Madelyn Ginsberg in straight sets, 6-0, 6-3, to capture the prestigious Level 6 TMX Burbank Open 18-under Singles’ Tennis Championship recently in at the Burbank High School in Burbank, Los Angeles, California, USA.

The 16-year-old pride of Saint Francis Assisi College (Bayanan, Bacoor City) unleashed her solid performance through her spins, dragging her opponent wide with her ability to absorb power shots to blank her 16-year-old rival Ginsberg in the opening set.

Ginsberg then showed a little resistance in the next frame, but it was a little too late against the Philippines’ best bet in the USTA-sanctioned Burbank tourney.

Pegula wins Charleston crown after Kenin collapse

Pegula took advantage of a dramatic collapse by Sofia Kenin to claim her second title of the season with a 6-3, 7-5 victory in the WTA Charleston Open final on Sunday.

dropping the

looked

to

She quickly raced into a 0-30 lead and when Kenin smacked a lazy forehand long she was presented with three match points.

Kenin never looked like turning things around and she promptly double-faulted to hand Pegula victory. AFP

PSA Forum to discuss WBC title tiff

WORLD title challenger Charly Suarez will be joined by no less than his top backer former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis ‘Chavit’ Singson in a special session of the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday (April 8) at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

She also acknowledged her coach and workout conditioning trainer Orlando ‘Buboy’ Silvoza for a job well done.

Mamiit was a former US tennis player, who went on to represent the Philippines in several international competitions. A sixtime Southeast Asian Games gold medal ist, including three in the Manila edition, plus two bronze medals in the 2006 Doha Asian Games, Mamiit is the owner of Ten nis Mechanix in Burbank.

“Coach Cecil Mamiit’s guidance made the big difference. Our almost two weeks and back home,” said the young champion, daughter of a former Mapua University varsity player and current commissioner of Games and Amusement Board Angel Bautista.

Bautista, who also dominated the Re gional Athletic Association Meet last month, will come home soon to represent the Region 4 (CALABARZON) in the DepEd Palarong Pambansa 2025 in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte this summer from April 4 to May 1. Prior to Bautista’s triumph, 19-year-old Filipina pro netter Alexandra Eala made waves in the recently concluded Miami Open by reaching the semifinals.

Along with trainer and former national team member Delfin Boholst, the 36-year-old Suarez and Singson are set to talk about the coming bid of the Filipino for the WBC super-featherweight championship against reigning champion Emanuel Navarrete of Mexico.

The Forum is set at 10:30 a.m.

The title fight is pencilled for a May 10 calendar at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, which Singson, who serves as the Filipino Olympian’s chief handler, made possible following negotiations with Navarrete’s promotional outfit Top Rank under the legendary Bob Arum.

It will be Suarez’s first shot at a world crown following a decorated career as an amateur fighter, who won three golds in the Southeast Asian Games, a silver in the Asian Games, and represented the country in the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Olympics.

PSA President Francis Ochoa, sports editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, enjoins members to attend the special session presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Smart/PLDT, MILO, and the country’s 24/7sports app ArenaPlus.

Malabuyo, Bruins reach US NCAA national finals

By Peter Atencio

FILIPINO-AMERICAN gymnast Emma

Malabuyo and the University of CaliforniaLos Angeles Bruins are in the US NCAA Division 1 national gymnastics’ finals.

The 22-year-old Malabuyo and her teammates made it after finishing in second place at the NCAA Regional Finals on Saturday at the Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Bruins tallied 197.625, ending up twotenths behind first-place Utah, which scored 197.825, while Denver landed third with a score of 197.350, and Minnesota settled for fourth with a 196.825. UCLA was in second place at the end of each of the four rotations, keeping a grip on

the Top 2 spot all throughout. The Bruins earned a seat in the national finals after compiling 49.425 in the balance beam in the final rotation. Denver was ahead after the first and second rotations with strong showings in the balance beam (49.550) and floor exercise (49.500).

“I would say that this team was built on trust. Everyone’s work ethic is so amazing,” said Malabuyo following a live-streamed post-game conference. The Bruins started the meet in the floor exercise, totalling three scores of 9.900 or higher and finishing with a 49.450.

A strong opening routine came from sophomore Katelyn Rosen, who scored a 9.850. Freshman Mika Webster-Longin followed with a 9.900, and Malabuyo had a 9.850.

Malabuyo’s routine included a well-done double pike, a good switch ring to switch half to wolf full, before finishing with a skillful 1.5 to front lay.

“I was really excited about how this meet went. It’s one of the most nerve-wracking competitions that we got to go to, so today the team wanted to stay dialed-in and stay focused and intentional about everything we were doing,” said Bruins’ coach Janelle McDonald. In rotation three, the Bruins were steady in the uneven bars, scoring 49.275, and they all scored 9.825 or higher, with Malabuyo hitting a 9.850. In the fourth rotation, Malabuyo scored higher with 9.900 to give UCLA a final score of 197.625.

Carlos Alcaraz: A lot of people are asking me, or are telling me, that I have the chance to become number one if Jannik (Sinner) is not playing. So probably that pressure has killed me in some way. AFP

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

No slow start this time for FiberXers

By Peter Atencio

THE Converge FiberXers are learning to adjust and settle down early.

And these are the key factors that allowed the FiberXers to put away the Phoenix Fuel Masters, 92-83, on Sunday in the 49th Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

“Unlike the last game, medyo slow start kami. Nangangapa sa opensa nila (Fuel Masters),” said FiberXers’ coach Franco Atienza after they posted their first win in two matches.

Alec Stockton powered Converge with 18 points and six rebounds, while Deschon Winston had 14 points and eight rebounds to lead the bench.

The FiberXers found their rhythm with their balanced attack, bucking the absence of Jordan Heading, who was out due to a back injury.

“Buti na lang, nag-balance out kami towards the end. We were caught off-guard from the start,” added Atienza.

Bryan Santos sank 12 points, including three triples, while Justin Arana finished with 10 points, 10 rebounds and three assists.

As they adjusted to Heading’s unavailability, the FiberXers withstood an 18-6 Fuel Masters run in the fourth period.

The Fuel Masters’ rally allowed them to cut a 23-point spread that Converge enjoyed in the third.

FEU, Santo Tomas, National U, Ateneo win rapid chess crowns

FAR Eastern University, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas, and National University-Nazareth School each took home a championship in the inaugural UAAP Season 87 Blitz Chess Championships held Saturday at the Adamson Gym.

The Tamaraws dominated the men’s division with a commanding 4-0 victory over top-seeded UST in the finals.

Tournament MVP and FIDE Master Mark Bacojo led the charge for FEU, securing four wins in four matches on the top board against Chester Reyes.

De La Salle University clinched third place in the men’s division after defeating the University of the Philippines, 3-1, in the battle for the bronze.

In the women’s division, Ateneo secured its first-ever chess championship via tiebreaker after forcing a 2-2 draw against FEU in the finals.

Ateneo head coach Yves Ranola breathed a sigh of relief following a nerve-wracking finals series that came down to the wire.

“Up to the last game ‘yung laban. Yung naging decider ‘yung sa Board 2. Kailangan namin at least makatabla.

Nakuha sa dasal and may halong suwerte na rin. Alam mo sa blitz kelangan hindi lang magaling ka. Dapat may kasamang suwerte ka rin,” said Ranola, after women’s division MVP Ma. Elayza Villa forced a crucial draw with FEU’s Mhage Sebastian on Board 2, salvaging the title despite Ateneo trailing after the first half of the finals.

De La Salle also took third place in the women’s division after edging UST, 2.5-1.5, in the bronze medal match. Meanwhile, UST added another crown by winning the boys’ division, thanks to FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri’s perfect 16-match win streak on Board 1 during the eliminations, earning him MVP honors.

Despite suffering consecutive 3-1 losses in Rounds 1 and 2 of the finals,

NCAA soft tennis meet under way Creamline seeks to cement legacy, Angels

By Dennis Abrina

THE National Collegiate Athletic Association and the Philippine Soft Tennis Association formally opened the Season 100 Soft Tennis Tournament Siglo Uno: Inspiring Legacies at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila on Monday.

Frank Gusi of Perpetual Help, chairman of the NCAA Soft Tennis Tournament. led the program with guest speaker Park Gyeong Man, president of Korea Jeollabuk-do Soft Tennis Association and PSTA president Bobby Moran.

Park extended his deepest appreciation of the NCAA Policy Board, NCAA Mancom and PSTA’s steadfast and unwavering support to soft tennis.

“This collaboration provided by the NCAA has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of soft tennis in the Philippines,” Park said.

“In line with the development of soft tennis here in the Philippines, we eagerly invite a women’s player from each participating school to Korea to participate in the 2025 Korea Cup International Soft Tennis Tournament in Incheon City, Korea on June 16 to 23 and 2025 Sunchang Open Soft Tennis Tournament in Sunchang City on June 24 to July 1, 2025 all sponsored by the Korea Soft Tennis Association and Jeollabuk-do Soft Tennis Association,” he added.

Perpetual Help is set to defend its crown in the women’s division, while College of St. Benilde tries to extend its reign in the men’s division.

UST bounced back with a 4-0 sweep in Round 3 and secured a 2-2 draw in the last round to win the championship via tiebreaker, anchored by Nouri’s strong performance on Board 1. In the girls’ division, National University-Nazareth School stunned FEU by forcing a 2-2 draw in the finals and clinching the title based on total points scored.

Sara Dalagan spearheaded the victory for NUNS, defeating national team standout and Woman FIDE Master Ruelle Canino in back-to-back matches during the first two rounds, setting the tone for the Sampaloc-based squad. NUNS coach Jose Aquino Jr. praised Dalagan for flawlessly executing their strategy, which he said was key to their unexpected championship run.

aim to break through

Games Tuesday 4 p.m. – Akari vs Choco Mucho 6:30 p.m. – Petro Gazz vs Creamline

THE Premier Volleyball League Finals is once again graced by familiar rivals – the Creamline Cool Smashers and the Petro Gazz Angels – two squads with contrasting legacies but the same unquenchable goal – to hoist the championship trophy.

In a league where legacies are forged and rivalries burn brighter with every conference, few matchups can match the anticipation surrounding the All-Filipino Finals clash between these two powerhouse sides. One enters with a dynasty to protect. The other arrives with a fire to finally break through. It’s a clash that pits legacy against longing. And with the series opening tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Araneta Coliseum, expect fireworks from the

Junior golfers set sights on world rankings as JPGT begins

A NEW era of opportunity dawns for the country’s brightest young golf talents as they vie in the 2025 season of the Junior Philippine Golf Tour (JPGT), where world amateur ranking points are now at stake.

The milestone edition unfolds today (Tuesday, April 8) at the Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club in Gen. Trias, Cavite, as junior golfers across the Luzon region locked in on a bigger goal – earning valuable points in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR).

Now officially recognized as a WAGRcounting event, the JPGT has grown into more than just a local proving ground. For players, it’s a gateway to international acclaim and a chance to measure up against the best on a global stage.

The expanded 15-leg tour, launched by ICTSI in 2023 and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., will be capped by the novel North vs South Elite Finals from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 at The Country Club.

The tournament now adopts a streamlined format with three age divisions: 7-10, 11-14, and 15-18, designed to sharpen competition and showcase talent at every level. This season features a star-studded cast of Junior World-bound golfers, all laser-focused on collecting WAGR points. Among the headliners in the boys’ 15-18 division are Shinichi Suzuki and Charles Serdenia, who are also set to compete in the annual San Diego event this July. They’ll battle fellow elite players such as Alonso Espartero, Alonso Corpus, John Paul Agustin, Jr. and Kristoffer Nadales in a bid to boost their global standing. Over on the girls’ side, top-ranked Precious Zaragosa and Tiffany Bernardino will spearhead the 15-18 bracket, eyeing both titles and crucial ranking points against contenders like Rafa Anciano and Jada Santiago.

The 11-14 division promises equally fierce competition with the Sarines

twins, Lisa and Mona, leading the charge. They’re also Junior World qualifiers and will be challenged by talents like Arielle Espartero and Eliana Dumalaog. In the boys’ group, Vito Sarines, who is also priming up for the Junior World, and Race Manhit headline a strong field, all gunning for a breakout performance that could elevate their international ranking.

Even the youngest golfers in the 7-10 category have their sights set on the WAGR. Rising stars like Venus delos Santos and Mavis Espedido (girls) and Jesus Yambao and Zoji Edoc (boys) are among those embracing the challenge early, eager to leave their mark. With WAGR points on the line, every swing, putt and finish matters more than ever. The JPGT’s recognition by the WAGR not only boosts its prestige but gives Filipino junior golfers a structured, high-stakes environment to launch their careers toward the global scene.

first serve.

Creamline’s core – Bernadeth Pons, Tots Carlos, Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, Bea de Leon, Pangs Panaga and Kyle Negrito – is battletested, composed under pressure, and seemingly immune to the bright lights of the big stage. This veteran unit has mastered the art of peaking under pressure, turning high-stakes moments into stepping stones toward continued dominance.

Every time the Finals come calling, Creamline answers like it’s just another day in the office – calm, prepared and laser-focused on the task at hand.

But even a dynasty must evolve to survive. After a surprise opening loss to Petro Gazz in the semifinals, Creamline roared back with convincing sweeps of Akari and Choco Mucho, proving once again that its championship pedigree is coded with resilience and adaptability.

Lisa Sarines

202 investments worth P5.1t approved under ‘Green Lanes’

By Othel V. Campos

P5.16 trillion

Between January and March 2025 alone, 26 projects were certified, worth 629.181 billion.

contributing 7.06 percent to total project cost and possibly generating 20,500 jobs.

T202 301,000 Green Lane investments as of April 4

Number of certified investment projects

HE Board of Investments said it had endorsed 202 strategic investment projects under the Green Lanes initiative, amounting to P5.165 trillion as of April 4, 2025. It said the approved projects would accelerate key sectors and generate over 301,000 jobs nationwide.

Renewable energy remains the top investment magnet, accounting for 158 of the 202 projects or 78.22 percent of the total.

The RE sector also represents 91.86 percent of total project costs, amounting to P4.745 trillion, with possible employment opportunities of over 269,000 jobs.

Digital infrastructure and public-private partnerships (PPP) came in second, with nine projects worth P364.877 billion,

Food security and manufacturing followed with 31 and 4 projects respectively. While they account for smaller shares in investment value, they remain vital to national development goals, the BOI said.

Total foreign investments reached P1.656 trillion, with renewable energy again leading at over P1.35 trillion.

The BOI highlighted the continued investor confidence in the Philippines particularly in energy and infrastructure.

Expected jobs from new investments

Telcos warn vs. impact of ‘Konektadong Pinoy’ bill

THE Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO) said Monday certain provisions in the Konektadong Pinoy bill could ultimately harm Filipino consumers and undermine fair competition within the telecommunications sector.

“Unfortunately, despite its good intentions, the Konektadong Pinoy bill disregards Constitutional provisions, undermines fair competition, and could stifle investment in the telecommunications sector. We should work towards a version that will protect our critical information infrastructure and benefit the Filipinos,” said PCTO.

The Konektadong Pinoy bill is a priority measure by the Marcos administration that aims to expand internet access in the country by easing the entry of new players in the data transmission industry.

The PCTO said, however, too much easing of the safeguards could pose a serious threat to the national security.

Under the current version of the bill, international gateway facilities, cable landing stations and satellite service providers do not need a legislative franchise requirement. Hence, any company can build or operate these without passing through the safeguards needed to ensure our national security.

“A shell company that may be state-sponsored can build international gateway facilities and cable landing stations in the Philippines or operate satellite services, and all they are required to do is register with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). There is no checking required in the bill as the requirement is only to register,” the PCTO said.

This will allow foreign-controlled companies to control critical information infrastructure (CII) essential for national security, it said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Clark aviation complex eyed as pharmaceutical logistics center

By Darwin G. Amojelar and Othel V. Campos

CLARK International Airport Corp. (CIAC) teamed up with Philippine Pharma Procurement Inc. (PPPI) to establish a pharmaceutical logistics and distribution center within the Clark Aviation Capital (CAC) at Clark Freeport Zone.

The two groups signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen Clark Aviation Capital’s transformation into the

country’s premier logistics hub.

CIAC president Jojit Alcazar said both CIAC and PPPI would further explore investment plans, joint ventures or public-private partnership (PPP) options, while ensuring compliance with pharmaceutical industry regulations and cold chain management standards.

“There’s a mutual appreciation of Clark’s distinctly viable location to build a pharmaceutical logistics hub with air cargo handling capabilities, main reasons which moved us swiftly

LRT 1 operator to suspend operations during Holy Week for system upgrades

By Darwin G. Amojelar

LIGHT Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) on Monday announced a temporary service suspension of LRT Line 1 during the Holy Week of 2025 to allow for critical maintenance and system upgrades.

LRMC said operations of LRT Line 1 would be paused from April 17 (Holy Thursday) to April 20 (Easter Sunday).

Prior to the temporary suspension, the LRT-1 will follow its normal operating hours from April 14 to 16, 2025 (Holy Monday to Holy Wednesday).

The first trips will depart simultaneously from Dr. Santos Station and Fernando Poe Jr. Station at 4:30 a.m. The last trips will

leave Dr. Santos Station at 10:30 p.m. and Fernando Poe Jr. Station at 10:45 p.m.

“Our priority at LRMC is the longterm safety and efficiency of the LRT-1. This Holy Week temporary suspension is a crucial part of our annual maintenance program, allowing us to perform essential upkeep and implement upgrades that will contribute to a more reliable and convenient service for our valued commuters,” said LRMC president and chief executive Enrico Benipayo.

All LRT-1 trains will undergo thorough testing and inspection before the normal operation of the entire line resumes on April 21, 2025 (Monday).

to formalize this understanding,” Alcazar said.

PPPI president Maria Blanca Kim Lokin said Clark’s strategic location provides a sprawling and uncongested complex in close proximity to Clark International Airport, major seaports and national road networks in a disaster-resilient environment.

“This opportunity provides unparalleled advantage for PPPI’s logistics operations and medical supply distribution, and ideal for us to build an integrated modern

warehousing with cold chain solutions,” she said.

Lokin said the partnership would support President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s vision to establish pharmaceutical ecozones with the end in view of improving access to medicines and reducing the country’s dependence on imported pharmaceutical products.

“The developments to be jointly made by PPPI and CIAC will be instrumental in the roll-out of the Botika at Bakuna Para Sa Mamamayan Program,” she said.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

Megaworld taps JLL for advisory services to boost property projects

MEGAWORLD Corp. and global real estate services firm JLL formed a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the property firm’s real estate projects by providing strategic advisory services on international standards.

The collaboration will see JLL offering services in research, consulting, and project development, covering areas such as office reinvention, innovation, building management, property technology solutions, property assessment and certifications and ensuring building safety, security and resilience in line with global standards, Megaworld said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Monday.

“Over the last 30 years in corporate real estate, this type of partnership has never been done before. We offer a new set of services related to technology, sustainability, and health and wellness, all aimed at further boosting the global standards of

real estate products, especially for a publicly-listed real estate developer like Megaworld. We are excited about this partnership and we are looking forward to the next several years to deliver outstanding outcomes with Megaworld,” said JLL Philippines country head Joey Radovan.

Megaworld president Lourdes GutierrezAlfonso said the partnership with JLL would enable the company to introduce new services and solutions to its communities.

“JLL has been a trusted partner for so many years, and we are excited to embark on this new chapter together. With JLL’s in-depth local and international real estate expertise, we can continue shaping an exciting future for Philippine real estate. We are exploring new opportunities to introduce innovative ideas and solutions across our developments,” she said. Jenniffer B. Austria

By Jenni er B. Austria

PHILIPPINE shares took a beating Monday on massive regional selloff that saw the index plunging 4.3 percent.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index lost 261.34 points to close at 5,822.85, the lowest in 2.5 years.

The broader all-shares index also fell 4.03 percent, or 146.67 points, to settle at 3,496.77.

Analysts said the panic spread across the global markets amid global economic uncertainty.

Investors went defensive and opted to sell their stocks.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the bloodbath was largely due to reciprocal traffic implemented by the Trump administration, which is expected to trigger tariff wars and could lead to global recession.

All major sectors were dragged into the red. The mining and oil index was hit hardest, plunging 8.75 percent, followed by the industrial sector, which slumped 4.81 percent . The financial sector also posted a steep 4.60-percent drop.

Value turnover reached P12.6 billion.

Losers outnumbered gainers, 201 to 32, while 33 stocks were unchanged.

Shares of fastfood giant Jollibee Foods Corp. declined 9.46 percent to close at P203.

A global stock market rout deepened on Monday, with Hong Kong crashing as US President Donald Trump stood firm on tariffs despite fears that his trade war could spark a recession.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index sank 13.2 percent, its biggest drop since the 1997 Asian financial crisis, while Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 fell an eye-watering 7.8 percent. Countries mostly have been scrambling to blunt the new US tariffs without retaliating, but Beijing is responding in kind, escalating the trade war between the world’s two biggest economies.

A 10-percent “baseline” tariff on imports from around the world took effect on Saturday but a slew of countries will be hit by higher duties from Wednesday, with levies of 34 percent for Chinese goods and 20 percent for EU products.

Beijing announced last week its own 34-percent tariff on US goods, which will come into effect on Thursday.

The tit-for-tat duties “are aimed at bringing the United States back onto the right track of the multilateral trade system”, Chinese vice commerce minister Ling Ji said.

“The root cause of the tariff issue lies in the United States,” Ling told representatives of US companies on Sunday, according to his ministry.

EU trade ministers will weigh their response at a meeting on Monday, with the bloc’s trade chief, Maros Sefcovic, telling reporters in Luxembourg that they were facing a “paradigm shift of the global trading system.” With AFP

LGU finances: Mandanas ruling needs clarification

WHEN the Supreme Court’s decision favoring the petition of Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas and former Bataan Governor Enrique Garcia was made public in 2019, the Filipino people believed that a conclusive blow had been struck for the fiscal autonomy of the local government units (LGUs) of this country. They thought that thenceforth the LGUs – the over 80 provinces and over 120 cities – would be receiving from the Treasury a national tax allotment (NTA) representing a full 40 percent of total national government revenues. However, this apparently is not the case, as one of the LGU organizations, the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) stated recently. LCP indicated that a review of its NTA experience showed that LGUs have been receiving 32 percent to 34 percent of total national revenues. In a meeting with LGU officials in January, the Department of Finance (DOF) attributed the shortfall to special allotments and special-purpose funds (SPFs) for “important national obligations provided for by law”. DOF enumerated 40 special allotments and legally obligated SPFs.

The department that is mandated by law to supervise the LGUs, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), should give the forthcoming ULAP petition its full support.

LCP is stoning the propriety of 20 of the 40 deductions. “(A) significant majority of the deductions should not be considered special purpose funds because they do not adhere to the Constitutional guidelines on fund consolidation and reversion,” LCP acting president Joy Belmonte has said.

Elaborating, Mayor Belmonte said: “Specifi cally six of the deductions fail to satisfy the requisite that these funds should serve a specifi c purpose and 19 deductions fail to satisfy the requisite that if unutilized for the specifi c purpose, the balance shall revert to the General Fund.”

Quezon City’s mayor added: “LGUs will never enjoy the full 40 percent of the national tax base because of the deduction of the SPFs.”

The institutions that can definitely put this matter to rest is the institution that ruled on the Mandanas-Garcia petition, to wit, the Supreme Court.

The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP), of which LCP is a member, indicated that it would file with the Supreme Court a petition seeking clarification as to whether SPFs should be deducted (from total national government revenues) prior to the deduction of the NTA, in accordance with the spirit and intent of the law, with the LGUs receiving the full 40 percent of national taxes.

It is inappropriate for a Cabinet department to be a co-petitioner against another Cabinet department, but the department that is mandated by law to supervise the LGUs, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), should give the forthcoming ULAP petition its full support.

A victorious ULAP petition will give this country’s provinces and cities the fiscal strength and operational stability that they need and deserve. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)

Megaworld Corp. and JLL form a strategic partnership to enhance the property firm’s real estate

projects by providing strategic advisory services on international standards. Leading the partnership signing are (from left) Arnie Batac, chief operating officer of MREIT Inc.; Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, president, Megaworld; Joey Radovan, country head of JLL Philippines.; and Michael Glancy, managing director for Thailand, Vietnam Indonesia and the Philippines, JLL.

RE PARTNERSHIP.

Berde Renewables Inc. and Holcim Philippines strengthen their partnership with major renewable energy projects in Davao City and Lugait, Misamis Oriental. Formalizing the expanded partnership are Patrick Zhu (left), co-founder and president of Berde Renewables and Nicolas George (right) president and chief executive of Holcim Philippines.

DOTr denies social media posts on US advisories against NAIA

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Monday US authorities have not issued new travel or security advisories against the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or any other Philippine airport.

The agency’s statement follows the circulation of a social media post showing what appears to be an old 2018 travel advisory displayed at Sacramento International Airport in California.

DA distributes inbred seeds in Marinduque

RICE farmers in Marinduque are set for a second planting season following the delivery of certified inbred seeds in observance of the newly-adopted double dry cropping system aimed at boosting yields and incomes.

The Department of Agriculture (DA), in partnership with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), is spearheading the program which seeks to optimize crop production between the dry and wet seasons.

The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), in coordination with other DA programs, is distributing 5,546 bags of certified inbred seeds under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).

The seeds will cover 2,558 hectares of farmland, ensuring readiness for the second dry season crop.

Initial deliveries have reached farmers in Mogpog and Santa Cruz, providing access to NSIC Rc 160—a high-yielding, pest-resistant variety that matures in just 107 days and yields up to 5.6 tons per hectare.

RCEF is distributing additional highyielding varieties like NSIC Rc 218, 608, and 402.

Other Marinduque towns, including Boac, Buenavista, Gasan, and Torrijos, are also preparing for the upcoming wet season.

Marinduque farmers harvested 16,526 metric tons of palay from 5,085 hectares, averaging 3.25 tons per hectare, or 65 50-kilo sacks in 2024. Othel V. Campos

DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon immediately wrote to the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on this and asked that this be immediately clarified and the old advisory posted at the said airport be taken down.

The DOTr said it was discovered upon consultation with TSA authorities in Manila that TSA Sacramento may have mistakenly included the old travel advisory, which was issued in 2018 but lifted in 2019, in the airport monitors.

TSA confirmed that the erroneous information had been taken down at 9 a.m. Manila time on Sunday.

“We take these matters very seriously, this is why we immediately reached out to the TSA officials here in Manila and officially sought clarification, and if there was any truth to this, we requested that this be immediately taken down so as to prevent fur-

ther confusion and anxiety for travelers to the Philippines,” Dizon said.

The 2018 travel advisory was lifted as early as August 2019, after extensive upgrades and close coordination with U.S. authorities.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rescinded its public advisory, acknowledging the Philippines’ full compliance with international security standards. Since then, there have been no new advisories issued against NAIA or any Philippine airport, the DOTr said.

The DOTr and the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the private operator of NAIA, said trhey are committed to ensuring the safety, security and integrity of NAIA and all airports across the country in upholding international aviation standards.

SMIC geothermal unit starts Mt. Malinao drilling

By Alena Mae S. Flores

PHILIPPINE Geothermal Production Company Inc. said Monday its drilling rig Pioneer 1 commenced exploration operations at Mt. Malinao in Albay province.

PGPC is developing a geothermal steam field at Mt. Malinao that can be the source of up to 49 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy.

“Mt. Malinao is one of several new concession areas being developed by PGPC in various locations in Luzon. These new concession sites have the potential to provide up to 300 MW of renewable energy to the island of Luzon in the next few years,” the company said.

PGPC, owned by SM Investments Corp., is Southeast Asia’s first commercial geothermal power resource provider.

SMIC announced in 2022 that PGPC would develop five geothermal areas that could add 250 MW to 400 MW of geothermal capacity.

“There is room for geothermal to grow with the need for more RE in the future,” SMIC said.

PGPC’s five new geothermal areas are Kalinga (26,139

hectares) in Pasil, Lubuagan and Tinglayan, Kalinga; Daklan (3,969 ha.) in Bokod, Benguet; Baua-Sikaw (36,450 ha.) in Gonzaga and Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Cagua-Baua (33,904 ha.) in Gonzaga and Lal-lo, Cagayan; Mt. Labo (20,169 ha.) in Del Gallego, Camarines Sur, San Vicente and San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte and Tagkawayan, Quezon; and Mt. Malinao (17,658 ha.) in Malinao, Tiwi, Tabaco City, Polangui and Malilipot, Albay and Buhi, Camarines Sur.

SMIC said PGPC’s ongoing operations, growth targets and efforts would support the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) and other Department of Energy initiatives.

PGPC operates the Tiwi and Mak-Ban steam fields in Albay and Laguna provinces, supplying steam to Aboitiz Power Corp.’s geothermal power plants.

Geothermal

Pilmico renews tie-up with TESDA to upskill bakers

PILMICO Foods Corp. (Pilmico), a unit of Aboitiz Foods, said it renewed its partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through a follow-through memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the upskilling of local bakers and trainers.

The collaboration seeks to enhance the Bread and Pastry Production NC II program, drive industry growth and create sustainable employment opportunities across the country.

“On top of providing quality products and technical support, we focus on training and skills development because, with

just a little help, people can thrive,” said Aboitiz Foods first vice president and country director for Food and Nutrition William Paradies. Since its inception in 2018, the partnership has provided aspiring bakers with access to modern tools, expert guidance, and entrepreneurship platforms through the Wooden Spoon Business Innovation Center for Baking and Pastry. The initiative expanded further with the launch of the “Bake/Cook with Chef Webinar Series,” a digital program that extended the reach of training nationwide, especially during the pandemic and the shift to hybrid learning.

Under the renewed MOU, TESDA and Pilmico will continue to align the training curriculum with industry demands, enhance trainer capabilities, promote technical education, and increase access to upskilling programs through ongoing webinars.

“At TESDA, we firmly believe that collaboration is the key. Your support will greatly impact the lives of our trainees and graduates, their families, and communities. Let us continue to champion skills development to ensure no one is left behind,” said TESDA Secretary Jose Benitez. Othel V. Campos

DA imposes ban on poultry items from Belgium

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture said Monday it imposed a temporary ban on the importation of wild and domestic birds from Belgium following an outbreak of bird flu in the European country.

Belgian veterinary authorities earlier reported an outbreak of H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Sint-Niklaas, Oost-Vlaanderen, Vlaanderen.

The virus, detected among domestic birds, was reported to the World Organization for Animal Health on Feb. 17, 2025.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Memorandum Order 20 to prevent the entry of wild and domestic birds, along with poultry products such as meat, day-old chicks, eggs and semen, citing the need to protect the local poultry industry from the HPAI virus.

He said the poultry sector is a vital contributor to the country’s food security, employment, and agricultural investments. Tiu Laurel also ordered the immediate suspension of processing and evaluation of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for poultry products.

Shipments from Belgium that were in transit, loaded or accepted at the port before the official ban may still enter the country, provided they were produced or slaughtered before Feb. 3, 2025.

Non-compliant shipments will be denied entry and either returned to Belgium, rerouted to a third country or destroyed.

Veterinary quarantine officers were instructed to confiscate all such shipments, except those that are heat-treated.

Philippine

Production Company Inc. begins exploration of new renewable geothermal energy sources in Mt. Malinao, Albay.

PAL to launch nonstop flights to Da Nang

By Darwin G. Amojelar

HILIPPINE

regular flights to Vietnam in September 1986.

PAL said it upgraded its Manila-Hanoi-Manila route to a daily service and would launch flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) starting on May 2.

“We at Philippine Airlines are excited to strengthen our close relationship with the Vietnamese people with the introduction of direct Manila-Da Nang flights,” said PAL president and chief operating officer Stanley Ng.

ASIALINK Finance Corp. (AFC)

teamed up with AutohousePH, a Cebubased digital vehicle marketplace, to help bridge the vehicle financing gap and make car ownership more accessible nationwide.

The collaboration was formalized at a contract signing event at the AFC Head Office, signaling a shared goal of widening financial inclusion and leveraging technology to simplify vehicle acquisition.

“In a country where vehicle ownership can open doors to mobility, opportunity, and economic growth, it’s concerning that many Filipinos still find the process difficult, expensive, and intimidating,” said Samuel Cariño, president and chief executive of Asialink Finance.

EPI, Mabuhay team up for clean power supply

By Alena Mae S. Flores

EMERGING Power Inc. (EPI), the renewable energy arm of Nickel Asia Corp., said Monday it teamed up with Mabuhay Energy Corp. (MECO), a licensed retail energy supplier (RES), to supply clean energy to consumers.

EPI said in a statement its subsidiaries—Jobin SQM, Inc. (JSI) and Northern Palawan Power Generation Corp., would provide MECO with a portion of the power generated from two major solar projects, specifically the 72.128-megawatt peak (MWp) Subic power plant and the upcoming 70-MWp Cawag Solar Power Plant (Phase 1).

EPI, through JSI, owns and operates two solar facilities in Subic, Zambales and is actively developing the Cawag Solar power plant alongside other renewable energy projects in other parts of the country.

The partnership supports EPI’s mission to drive the country’s transition to sustainable energy through largescale renewable initiatives.

“We are honored to have been chosen by MECO as a partner in expanding their business of delivering clean and sustainable energy to their RES customers,” said EPI president and chief executive Roy Joseph Fernandez.

“Through our expanding solar portfolio, which includes the Subic and Cawag power plants, we steadfastly aim to contribute to the Philippines’ renewable energy goals which should help enhance the country’s energy security in the near term,” he said.

“This partnership breaks down those barriers by combining digital convenience with accessible financing, thus making car ownership a reality for more people, especially in underserved areas,” he said.

AutohousePH offers a digital platform where users can browse, bid on, and purchase bank-repossessed and pre-owned vehicles. Previously, access to these units was often limited to in-person auctions or closed networks. The platform connects buyers directly to bank inventories, offering a more transparent and user-friendly experience. Its growing presence across the country gives everyday Filipinos the opportunity to acquire affordable, highquality vehicles. Under the partnership, AFC will pro-

vide flexible financing options to customers using the AutohousePH platform. The goal is to simplify the vehicle acquisition process and remove financial hurdles that have long prevented many from purchasing their own vehicles.

The initiative also supports national goals for financial inclusion and digital transformation by empowering individuals and small business owners to invest in mobility that supports their personal and economic growth.

“We are not just offering financing, we are creating possibilities. As we prepare to open our 250th branch this year, this collaboration strengthens our commitment to making financing more inclusive, transparent, and accessible nationwide,” Cariño said.

“PAL is committed to offering greater connectivity and promoting tourism and commerce between our capital city and the central Vietnamese heartland. We look forward to welcoming more leisure and business travelers onboard our flights to Da Nang,” he said.

Da Nang offers a mix of rich history, picturesque beaches and modern attractions. It is a lively coastal city situated close to renowned landmarks like the Marble Mountains and Golden Bridge.

Da Nang is also an accessible gateway to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Old Town of Hoi An, the archeological ruins of My Son and the fabled Imperial City of Hue.

As the Philippines’ only full-service network airline, PAL said it would give travelers daytime flights for greater convenience to maximize their time in Da Nang, along with a choice of Business Class and Economy Class services.

PAL’s Manila-Da Nang flights depart from Ninoy Aquino International Airport every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, deploying Airbus A321 jetliners that accommodate up to 199 passengers.

Aside from the new PAL Manila-Da Nang, Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City routes and the daily Manila-Hanoi services, PAL also operates eight weekly flights between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City.

IN BRIEF

By Jenni er B. Austria

BANK of the Philippine Island said it is expanding its e-wallet service VYBE to public markets across the country as part of the bank’s objective to promote greater financial convenience for Filipinos.

A joint initiative of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Paleng-QR Ph program aims to accelerate the adoption of digital payments local communities. The Paleng-QR Ph program seeks to promote the use of Quick Response (QR) Ph payments, empowering market vendors, tricycle operators, driv-

NETBANK Inc., a leading rural bank, is working with JuanHand, a pure fintech lending application, to broaden its reach to unbanked and underserved communities across the nation.

The collaboration between the two fintech firms aims to help Filipinos of all ages achieve their goals and finance businesses by providing innovative lending solutions tailored to their specific needs.

“Through embedded finance, we’re enabling JuanHand to better serve more underserved Filipinos,” said Amiel de Sotto, head of lenders at Netbank.

“Our goal is to empower part-

ners like JuanHand to scale faster and deliver financial services directly to those who need them the most,” he said.

JuanHand, operated by WeFund Lending Corp., disbursed over P40 billion ($700 million) in loans and has more than 12 million users. The app is known for its fast approval process, minimal requirements, and user-friendly interface. JuanHand’s innovation, compliance, and accessibility to customer service have earned it recognition as the leading loan app in the country.

“We are delighted that Netbank chose JuanHand to be its lending partner,” said Francisco Mauricio,

president and chief executive of WeFund Lending Corp.

“This partnership will benefit millions of Filipinos and provide financial assistance anytime and anywhere they need it. With Netbank, we will continue to break through boundaries and serve every Juan without limits,” said Mauricio.

JuanHand describes itself as a trusted financial partner, offering accessible, educational, and reliable support to Filipinos nationwide. With a commitment to financial education and data security, JuanHand says it provides financial assistance when Filipinos need it most.

ers, and small business owners with a secure and efficient payment system.

As part of the initiative, VYBE, one of the key financial services providers with QR Ph capabilities, was showcased during the program’s rollout in Passi, Iloilo; San Jose de Buenavista, Antique; and Parañaque City.

VYBE played a vital role in onboarding users and providing financial literacy to help communities transition to digital transactions.

VYBE by BPI recorded a total of 1.7 million users in 2024, demonstrating the growing adoption of digital wallets among Filipinos. The bank aims to increase this by another 2.5 million this year.

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Unsustainable fashion and textiles worsen crisis

AHEAD of the International Day of Zero Waste 2025, events in Nairobi, New York and across the world have shone a spotlight on waste in the fashion and textiles industry, highlighting the environmental and social challenges of overproduction and overconsumption caused by the sector’s linear business model.

The International Day of Zero Waste—officially observed on March 30 each year—was the focus of a high-level event on March 27 at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York, as well as an event at the UN Environment Program (UNEP) and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, on the same day.

Every year, 92 million tons of textile waste is produced globally. Production doubled from 2000 to 2015, while the duration of garment use decreased by 36 percent. Eleven percent of plastic waste comes from clothing and textiles, with only 8 percent of textiles fibers in 2023 made from recycled sources.

Discarded clothing often ends up

in low-income countries, where lack of waste management infrastructure leads to dumping, burning, and severe environmental and social consequences.

Additionally, textile and fashion waste in cities often end up in landfills, where it takes decades to decompose and releases harmful greenhouse gases. A zero-waste approach is key to the required transition to more circular approaches.

“Unsustainable fashion is aggravating the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature, land and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste,” said Inger Andersen, executive director of UNEP.

“We need to focus on a circular economy approach that values sustainable production, reuse and repair. By working together, consumers, industry and governments can support genuinely durable fashion and help reduce our fashion footprint.”

On this third observance of the International Day of Zero Waste, UNHabitat put out a call for submission

of zero waste good practices in fashion and textiles to be reviewed and recognized by the UN SecretaryGeneral’s Advisory Board on Zero Waste.

The event in Nairobi showcased three practices from Thailand, India and Norway selected by the Board from 220 submissions.

“The rising tide of waste is straining urban infrastructure, public health, and the environment—especially for 1.1 billion people in informal settlements and slums with limited waste collection and sanitation services,” said Anacláudia Rossbach, executive director of UN-Habitat.

“We are committed to building a future where waste is no longer a problem but a resource.”

The International Day of Zero Waste was adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 14, 2022 to promote sustainable production and consumption patterns and encourage a shift towards a lifecycle approach, so no materials or resources go to waste. The day is facilitated by UNEP and UN-Habitat. UNEP News

47m health workers call for cleaner air to curb pollution

OVER 50 countries, cities and organizations pledged new commitments to tackle air pollution, protect public health and help halve its deadly impacts by 2040 – a goal backed by a petition from 47 million health professionals, patients and advocates demanding clean air be made a public health priority.

The Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health co-hosted by the World Health Organization and Colombia, in the city of Cartagena, brought together over 700 participants from 100 countries—including heads of state, ministers, scientists, and civil society groups—to accelerate action to curb what’s increasingly described as a full-scale health emergency.

“It is time to move from commitments to bold actions,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

“To achieve clean air, we need urgent actions on all fronts: financial investment in sustainable solutions, such as in clean energy and sustainable transport, technical enforcement of WHO global air quality guidelines, and social

commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our most polluted regions.”

The shared goal? A 50 percent reduction in the health impacts of air pollution by 2040.

Countries, including Brazil, Spain, China and the United Kingdom, laid out national roadmaps, while the Clean Air Fund pledged an additional $90 million for climate and health programs.

Cities which are part of the C40 network, including London, vowed to strengthen air quality monitoring and push for greater investment in clean air strategies.

A health crisis hidden in plain sight

According to WHO, air pollution is responsible for seven million premature deaths annually and is now the second leading global risk factor for disease, after hypertension.

“Today air pollution is the first risk factor for disease burden,” said Maria Neira, WHO’s Director of Environment, Climate Change and Health. “It’s the number one risk factor for getting sick.” UN News

Private sector key in securing resilient future

The private sector plays a key role in strengthening the country’s climate resilience and sustainable development because of their vast resources and networks.

Climate Change Commission vice chairperson and executive director

Secretary Robert E.A. Borje said in the recent State of Climate Change forum at the Makati Diamond Residences that accelerating climate action and resilience demands the strong participation of the private sector and international partners.

“Preventing losses and damages starts with turning our adaptation plans into tangible solutions, with the private sector stepping up as a driving force in building a climate-resilient future,” he said.

The CCC is leading efforts to localize the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and update the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) ― both key frameworks designed to strengthen the country’s climate resilience and sustainable development efforts.

San Miguel Corp. Foundation chair Cecile Ang echoed Borje’s observation.

“The private sector has the resources, expertise and networks to make a significant impact,” she said. “By investing in sustainable practices and supporting community resilience, businesses can help secure a safer, more sustainable future for everyone.”

The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), in partnership with the New Zealand Embassy, convened key stakeholders for the second State of

GLOBE Telecom Inc has become the first mobile network operator (MNO) to team up with the UN Global Pulse’s Data Insights for Social and Humanitarian Action (DISHA) coalition, harnessing AI-driven data for disaster preparedness and response.

“Given the Philippines’ vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, Globe is honored to be the first telecommunications company to join the DISHA coalition. This multi-sectoral partnership underscores our commitment to sustainability by leveraging

The multi-partner initiative recently launched its pilot run in the Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions, where about 74 percent of the population faces risks from floods, cyclones, earthquakes, tsunamis, and landslides.

First of 2 parts

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines faces pressing environmental challenges, from air and marine pollution to rising sea levels and climate-related disasters.

These issues underscore the urgent need for sustainable action, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused on clean energy, waste reduction, sustainable communities and strong partnerships.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corp. (APC) embraces this responsibility through the Ajinomoto Creating Shared Value (ASV) framework.

More than just reducing its environmental footprint, APC aims to regenerate the environment and uplift the

digital technology to enable solutions and inspire collective action towards inclusive sustainable development,” said Yoly Crisanto, chief sustainability and corporate communications officer at Globe. While timely and accurate information

communities it serves.

By 2030, APC targets a 50 percent reduction in environmental impact while contributing to ecosystem regeneration, fully aligned with the SDGs.

To achieve this, the company has established five sustainability pillars, each representing a significant step toward a greener future.

Sustainable Practices

Imagine a supply chain where every step contributes to the planet’s well-being.

At APC, this vision is becoming reality.

The company has committed to sourcing 100 percent responsibly grown palm oil, ensuring that every drop supports fair labor and combats deforestation.

Climate Change forum.

Supporting the event were the New Zealand Embassy, Aboitiz Foundation, Coca-Cola Philippines, First Philippine Holdings Corp. and San Miguel Corp.―all advocates of climate action and disaster resilience.

The forum also highlighted the growing partnership between the Philippines and New Zealand in tackling climate change. New Zealand Climate Change Ambassador Stuart Horne reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in advancing climate solutions.

In November 2024, the Philippines and New Zealand signed a Joint Declaration on Climate Change Cooperation. The agreement outlines an 18-month plan to formalize a framework for deeper collaboration― with a focus on innovation, sustainable development, and economic growth.

“New Zealand is committed to working alongside the Philippines in building climate resilience,” said Horne. “Through cooperation and innovation, we can create solutions that not only protect communities but also drive economic growth and investment.”

The forum concluded with a renewed commitment from PDRF to continue working closely with the New Zealand Embassy, the Philippine government and the private sector to accelerate climate resilience initiatives.

is critical in directing aid and ensuring swift recovery efforts, many local organizations still rely on manual assessments that can delay aid distribution.

DISHA addresses the challenge through the dynamic Socio-Economic Mapping solution developed in collaboration with McKinsey & Company and its AI arm QuantumBlack. The Population Movement heatmap highlights unexpected population movement in disaster-stricken regions in near real time using trends derived from telecommunications data.

Meanwhile, the Poverty Nowcasting feature uses machine learning models trained on government census data, telecom trends and other anonymized signals to provide a regularly updated view of poverty levels. These tools help humanitarian organizations better respond to disasters, reaching those in most need.

“We’re excited to welcome Globe Telecom to the DISHA Partner community and look forward to working side-by-side with Globe and humanitarian agencies operating in the Philippines to validate and scale the DISHA Socio-Economic Mapping solution in the country,” said Katya Klinova, head of AI for Humanitarian and Development Use at UN Global Pulse.

“As a company, we understand that sustainability starts from the ground up. By ensuring responsible sourcing, we are not just protecting our environment but also supporting ethical labor practices,” said APC Group chief sustainability officer Ernie Carlos. Greener Future Picture a factory powered by the sun, significantly reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.

In Bulacan, APC’s facility operates with a 1 megawatt-peak solar panel array, supplying 20 percent of its energy needs. But the company didn’t stop there. On December 26, 2023, the Bulacan factory switched to 100 percent renewable energy, followed by the Cebu facility on February 26, 2025. (To be continued)

To reinforce its sustainability efforts, APC also champions the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified Master Carton program, ensuring that paper packaging originates from responsibly managed forests.

PARTNERSHIP. Junior Chamber International (JCI) Manila president Jan Adrian Padiernos (left) and United Nations Development Program Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran officially launch the partnership between JCI Manila and UNDP Philippines to promote programs that will help accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals in the country.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corp.chief sustainability officer Ernie Carlos presents the different programs for better nutrition and sustainability initiatives.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Julie Anne San Jose said she

SINGER-ACTRESS

is open to settling down with longtime boyfriend Rayver Cruz after the actor recently said he was sure she is the woman he wants to marry.

“Of course, I’m tickled pink,” San Jose said during a media conference. “I also feel the same. We’re already at that point where we can settle down anytime.”

San Jose confirmed they often talk about marriage but have yet to set a timeline. “We just don’t know when it will happen, but eventually, it will — in God’s time,” she said.

Asked if she would be open to having a child before marriage, San Jose said she prefers tying the knot first, citing their traditional family backgrounds. “Marriage is a sacred thing, as so is having kids. It’s a delicate thing to consider.”

She said she is ready if Cruz decides to propose.

“There are still things I want to achieve for myself, but we can do it together.”

San Jose said she is not concerned about any career setbacks should they get engaged. “I’m already in that phase where I just want to enjoy life… I have work, I have my family, and I have Ray. So, what more can I ask for?”

She said she hopes to get married before turning 35. “I’m turning 31 this year, and there are still lots of things to happen. Let’s just wait and see.”

* * * Actress Glaiza de Castro said she and husband David Rainey are not rushing into parenthood and believe the right time will come.

“Before, I was hesitant to talk about it because I was doing various showbiz projects,” de Castro said during a television appearance.

The couple, who married in Ireland in 2021 and held a ceremony in the Philippines in 2023, are not feeling pressured despite questions from the public.

“The more I think about it, the more people will ask,” she said. “We strongly believe that the baby will come in God’s perfect time.”

De Castro currently stars in the film Sinagtala and will next appear in Sang’gre , a spin-off of the long-running fantasy series Encantadia , where she plays the role of Pirena.

SHOWBIZ

As Danilo dives into a world of intimacy and deception, viewers are left questioning: what’s the price of chasing pleasure? And is it worth it?

Bonifacio’s storytelling walks a tightrope between eroticism and introspection. Danilo’s roommates, with their crude humor and bravado, provide a stark contrast to his internal conflict. The film nudges you to examine how masculinity, repression, and societal expectations brew beneath the surface of everyday people.

On the other side of the river is Bangkera, set against the scenic backdrop of Pagsanjan Falls. Directed by Temi Cruz Abad, this film goes beyond the romance between a local boatwoman and a visiting filmmaker. It asks a more pressing question: When love and family duty clash, who do you let down?

By Nickie Wang

IN A landscape of glossy rom-coms and recycled teleserye plots, VMX detours down dirt roads and river trails with two new Original Movies this April with provocative titles, Habal and Bangkera.

Let’s start with Habal. Directed by Bobby Bonifacio Jr., this film follows Danilo, a motorcycle taxi driver whose quiet life turns chaotic after picking up a mysterious passenger. It’s a familiar setup—loner meets seductress—but what makes it work is the gritty portrayal of desire that doesn’t glamorize but rather exposes the thrill and the cost of forbidden indulgence.

Micaela Raz as Ilyana gives a nuanced performance—strong-willed but vulnerable. Her story doesn’t just revolve around a love interest. It’s about her quiet defiance, the sacrifices of the working class, and how women like her carry the weight of generations. Abad’s direction gives us something rare in this genre: a female lead whose choices, however emotional, are driven by more than just affection. They’re anchored in survival.

Taken together, Habal and Bangkera show VMX’s intent to explore the sexy genre without reducing its characters to mere fantasies. These stories push past surface-level seduction. They tap into longing, shame, dreams deferred, and the complicated spaces where lust and love intersect.

If you’re looking for popcorn flicks with pretty people, these films deliver—but if you’re open to a ride with more grit and honesty, hop on. The journey may just take you somewhere you didn’t expect. Habal is now streaming exclusively on VMX, while Bangkera will be available for VMX fans on April 11.

WARNER Bros.’ new video gamebased film A Minecraft Movie smashed records in its opening weekend in North American theaters, digging up an estimated $157 million in ticket sales, analysts said Sunday. That total for the film, made along with Legendary Pictures and starring ack Black, Jason Momoa, and Jennifer Coolidge , far surpassed expectations, making it the year’s biggest domestic release. It was also the most successful adaptation ever from a video game, bettering the $146 million opening of 2023’s Super Mario Bros. Movie With $144 million in overseas

Celebrity couple Julie Anne San Jose (left) and Rayver Cruz confirmed their relationship in 2022

From left: Jack Black, Danielle Brooks, and Jason Momoa in a scene from

‘A Minecraft Movie’

’Habal’ cast members (from left) Karen Lopez, JD Aguas, Athena Red, and Jhon Mark Marcia

Micaela Raz (left) and John Marco Mora lead VMX’s latest offering ’Bangkera’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

By Jasper Valdez

ANEW women-led initiative was launched at The Manila Hotel on March 31, just as Women’s Month came to a close, with a bold and urgent mission — to safeguard the first 1,000 days of life.

The group, called Ladies for a Cause, was born from a meeting between Philippine Red Cross Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang and former Senator Joey Lina, who is also president of The Manila Hotel and convenor of the Children’s First 1,000 Days Coalition (CFDC).

In just a few weeks, what started as an idea turned into a fullfledged movement involving 150 women leaders.

“This is a historic event,” said Lina.

“It’s the women who must be at the forefront of this cause. The child is first nourished in the womb. After birth, breastfeeding is critical, and if we miss this period, the consequences are irreversible.”

Lina emphasized that the first 1,000 days are the foundation for a person’s health, cognitive ability, and future development.

Poor nutrition and lack of care during this window, he said, are

tied to alarming levels of stunting, learning poverty, and low educational performance in the Philippines. For Pang, the urgency is deeply personal and national.

“They’re not just numbers,” she

‘Ladies for a Cause’ launches to champion children’s f irst 1,000 days

Sam Verzosa opens up about dream of marrying Rhian Ramos

By Angelia Villanueva

IN SEPARATE interviews, actress Rhian Ramos and businessman-turned-politician Sam Verzosa offered insights into their relationship— prompting once again the question, “When is the wedding?”

During a recent guesting in Fast Talk with Boy Abunda for her film Sinagtala, Rhian spoke about her evolving views on marriage.

For the actress, marriage was once a concept she viewed with skepticism.

“So for the longest time, I’ve been thinking that nothing really lasts forever. Sometimes because you think of something as a child, then as you’re growing up, it’s like you keep justifying why you believe in that,” Rhian told Tito Boy.

She shared that she used to think that expecting a lifetime commitment from one person might be asking too much. But her views began to shift—especially with Sam coming into her life.

“Maybe because now I’m thinking about it, and the more I get to know him, truly every day I learn something new, I experience something new, and I’m never bored because it’s different, you know. I’ve never met anyone really like this,” she continued.

The couple, who’ve been together for more than a year, have gradually become more public about their relationship. Rhian described their dynamic as both exciting and grounding.

“Sometimes I see him as this man that is more mature than me, that can teach me things. Sometimes, I see him as this little baby that I want to squeeze and take care of. I see him in so many

different ways. It’s never the same,” shared Rhian.

She emphasized that respect and balance define their connection.

“We have a very equal partnership

And he’s given me so much respect and trust. I’ve noticed that I’ve become a better, more mature person. More patient. I can see myself really taking care of this partnership and doing life with this person,” the actress added.

On the other hand, during the kickoff of his campaign rally, Sam was asked about marriage. Though his focus was on public service, he didn’t shy away from

Rhian Ramos (left) holds a giant bouquet from Sam Verzosa, who just might be hinting at the fourth ‘K’— kasal

said. “They are dreams unfulfilled and families shattered. This is not charity, it is justice. No child’s potential should be stunted by malnutrition, and no mother should die from preventable causes.”

Pang said Ladies for a Cause will focus on five key areas — raising awareness, gathering resources, educating mothers and caregivers, engaging policymakers, and partnering with grassroots organizations.

Among those who expressed support was New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh who cited a Māori proverb: “Ko te whaia, te takere o te waka”— mothers” are like the hull of a canoe.

“They are the heart of the family,” McIntosh said. “Ladies for a Cause, may you continue to nurture and inspire the next generation.”

DSWD Undersecretary Diana Cajipe, who previously served as

an OB-GYN, spoke candidly about the loss of mothers during the pandemic.

“I operated on 24 women. Some made it, but some did not,” she said. “We are women from different sectors. But if we work as one, we can fill the gaps. Let’s ask ourselves what we can do.”

SM Foundation executive director Connie Angeles also emphasized the long-term impact of the movement.

“This mission transcends statistics,” she said. “It touches lives. In the first 1,000 days, the seeds of a child’s future are planted.”

The launch ended with a commitment pledge and a call for women from all sectors to add their voices, skills, and influence to the cause.

“We gather not just as individuals,” Pang said, “but as a collective force of compassion, passion, and action.”

the topic of marrying his girlfriend.

“You know, whatever the outcome of this election may be, for me, this is my fate, and she is the one I have chosen in my life. So I hope that, that will indeed be the fourth ‘K’,” he stated.

The fourth “K,” as he was talking about, was “kasal” (wedding), following the three-pronged platform he is championing: kalusugan, kaalaman, at kabuhayan— health, knowledge, and livelihood. Sam, who co-founded a direct-selling business before entering politics, said his “KKK” platform is rooted in personal experience.

“First of all, we need to address health. There are so many who are sick, dying, without medicine, and maintenance.

That’s what we should focus on first— seniors who have no livelihood and are neglected,” the Manila mayoral hopeful said.

He emphasized that addressing poverty begins with access to healthcare and education.

“We also need to focus on the education of the youth because of poverty. All problems begin with poverty. You can’t get medical treatment or go to school because of poverty. There are no jobs either. It’s all a chain reaction,” he continued. Through “kalusugan,” “kaalaman,” and “kabuhayan,” Sam aims to equip communities with the means to rise above poverty.

“When they have the three Ks, they have a way to help themselves. When they have studied, they have opportunities in life. When they have a livelihood, they can also help themselves. They will be free from poverty,” added Sam.

Rhian and aspiring public servant Sam make a surprise appearance at a local night market

Rhian and Sam turn heads in coordinated pastel looks

Women leaders pledge their support for children’s first 1,000 days during the

‘Ladies for a Cause’ launch

Former Senator Joey Lina speaks on the life-shaping impact of nutrition during a child’s formative years

DSWD Usec. Diana Cajipe joins the women-led movement, urging collaboration to save lives

Philippine Red Cross Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang delivers a passionate call to action for maternal and child health

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

IN TODAY’S world, it’s easy to put “CEO” in your social media bio and call it a day. But titles alone don’t build companies, inspire communities, or change lives.

The true essence of being a CEO is about vision, heart, and impact. Being a CEO is about strategic leadership, vision, and accountability, involving setting direction, making key decisions, and representing the company to stakeholders.

And if we want to talk about what being a true CEO looks like—someone who leads with vision and heart—we need to talk about Rhodora “Doyee” Tactacan-Tumpalan

Some weeks ago, I had the opportunity to have lunch with Doyee, a woman who exudes sophistication but knows exactly how to connect with her audience. Having met her for the first time, I can already attest that she possesses a unique charisma. When she speaks, people listen, and you can’t help but be drawn to her presence.

Great morning with Doyee Tumpalan

a true family business

Much has already been written about Doyee—how extraordinary she was in building a multilevel marketing company that had a million dealers. I even heard that she received “rock star treatment” back in the day. The company was highly successful, but it also faced its share of scrutiny. However, what I was most curious about was how she managed to rise in a dynamic business world traditionally dominated by powerful men while creating a community of like-minded individuals.

Doyee’s story is not one of inheritance but of hard-earned success. At the age of 19, she took over her family’s business—the D. Tactacan Shoe Factory—becoming its General Manager. While most young adults were still charting their career paths, she was making executive decisions and taking on the challenges of a competitive industry, all while staying true to her family’s legacy.

“The team was already experienced and knowledgeable, so it was easy taking over,” she recalled. “But the hardest part was the integration. Your mindset is different, and you’re working with a hundred people who were often twice or even three times your age.”

Her goal was to expand globally and compete with multinational companies, so she went to Italy to study shoemaking. Their business was originally 100 percent manual, hand-made shoes, a unique selling point that set them apart.

“But with the rise of China-made products, I realized the need to modernize. There was resistance to change at first, and that was the challenge—convincing the team to embrace it,” Doyee explained.

In 2002, Doyee co-founded First Quadrant Philippines, Inc. with her husband, Soc Tumpalan First Quadrant was the first all-Filipino multilevel marketing company, and its goal was deeply personal: to revive the struggling Marikina shoe industry. And they succeeded. This achievement speaks volumes about Doyee’s ability to lead, inspire, and uplift Filipino workers.

But her journey didn’t end there. In 2005, Doyee launched First Vita Plus Marketing Corporation, which entered the wellness market with a revolutionary herbal drink.

“First Vita was a big transition,” Doyee said. “From selling shoes and lifestyle items to focusing on health and wellness. We didn’t advertise—people knew us through word of mouth.”

Her flagship product, First Vita Plus Dalandan, combined five powerful herbs into

a daily supplement, bridging Filipino traditions with modern health needs.

Though First Vita Plus may not have received the same level of fame as First Quadrant, Doyee believes that a product should speak for itself.

“Before, with First Quadrant, I was hearing wealth testimonies. Now, the testimonies are different. People tell me how our products made their lives more meaningful, how they improved their health,” she shared. “It’s life-changing.

The testimonies I get from people have two components now, health and wealth.”

Strategic leader with a heart

Doyee’s leadership style is rooted in empathy and fueled by action. She has shaped a nationwide network of entrepreneurs through workshops and gatherings, empowering others with the tools to succeed. And for her, true success is measured not by wealth or accolades but by the impact she has on others.

“I don’t just tell people what to do—I show them,” she said. Through her example, Doyee has proven that true leadership is about empowering others to rise.

Doyee’s philosophies, instilled by her parents, continue to guide her today. One key lesson she often shares is: “The people you have going up will be the same people you’ll see going down. So be kind and respectful to the people you work with because these are the same people who will help you when you need help. These are the same people whom you’ll encounter in all stages of your career as an entrepreneur.”

This wisdom reminds her that humility, respect,

and integrity are the cornerstones of both business and life.

Doyee also teaches the importance of “Self equity” to her children—a concept she believes is vital for success in both business and life.

“Self equity is the ability to solve problems using your own ideas, creativity, experience, and self-control,” she explained.

Doyee finds fulfillment in hearing people’s stories about how her company’s products changed their lives and helped them find health, wealth, and freedom.

“As the multilevel marketing business shifts, health and wellness are now the priorities,” she said. “And the best part is seeing how our products have transformed lives, how people’s health has improved, and how they’ve found freedom.”

Doyee now manages a product line with over 40 variants, operates a factory in Pasig, and has a growing online presence, including nearly half a million followers on TikTok.

Despite initially hesitating to join the platform, she agreed on the condition that her content would be meaningful, sharing health tips alongside messages about motherhood, faith, and purpose.

“Online is the game now,” she said. Despite her business’s growth, Doyee remains hands-on in sourcing, quality control, and design, calling First Vita Plus a true family business, with her husband providing structure and her bringing the heart. Her children are

Doyee finds fulfillment in hearing about her company’s products’ impact on people’s lives

From left: Doyee (second from right) together with her family Lance, Gabbie, Soc, and Patita Tumpalan at the 23rd anniversary of First Vita Plus

Doyee remains hands-on in sourcing, quality control, and design, calling First Vita Plus

At 19, Doyee (center) became General Manager of her family’s shoe factory, D. Tactacan, and she began navigating the competitive industry while preserving her family’s legacy

The CEO emphasizes the significance of self-equity, a concept she firmly believes is essential for achieving success

also starting to join the company she built.

Doyee’s journey shows what it truly means to be a CEO—a visionary leader who empowers others. Our conversation ended with a clear understanding of why it’s always a “great morning” with a leader like Doyee, who leads with vision and heart.

First Vita Plus Marketing Corporation CEO Rhodora “Doyee” TactacanTumpalan