Manila Standard - 2025 April 10 - Thursday

(Story on A4)

TRUMP TARIFFS TAKE EFFECT; CHINA

RAISES LEVIES VS. US

By Othel V. Campos

resurrecting probe into PCSO official's

By Rio N. Araja

‘ICC may order more arrests’

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

Prosecutors investigating Rody's co-perpetrators—ICC spokesman

prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is continuing the investigation on other personalities tagged in the crimes against humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte.

“The

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma. Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.

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

Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption with in the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in

The ICC prosecutor and his office are continuing to investigate and if they have sufficient evidence, they will present it to the judges, and the judges will decide whether to issue arrest warrants.

—ICC spokesman Fadi El Abdallah judges will decide whether to issue arrest warrants,” the court’s spokesman Fadi El Abdallah told TeleRadyo Serbisyo on Tuesday. Abdallah did not mention the names of the individuals under ICC investigation.

However, Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who was Duterte's former police chief and Oplan Tokhang chief

By Darwin Amojelar

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

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announcement by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). China reportedly made the announcement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity between the Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the regional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -

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

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

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

By Rachelle Tonelada and Rex Espiritu

Albert Endencia, and Na

thalie Plizardo.

Depart

(DFA) Under

Eduardo de Vega said that arrangements have been made

By Rex Espiritu

atop Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan, the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor)

CELEBRATING HEROISM. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads ceremonies commemorating the 83rd anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan yesterday at the Dambana ng Kagitingan in Mount Samat National Shrine, Pilar, Bataan. The event, themed “Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas,” highlights the pivotal role of veterans in strengthening and

continued progress and

(PPA pool photos) By Charles Dantes, Rachelle Tonelada,

Superable, Maricel V. Cruz, and Rex Espiritu

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. marked ‘Araw ng Kagitingan’ (Day of Valor) by renewing his pledge to support men and women in uniform, especially those who gave up their lives in service of the country. Speaking at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City, the chief executive vowed to s Next page

PAGASA warns public of hotter days ahead

By Rio N. Araja

EXPECT temperatures to rise higher that could reach the danger level in the coming days amid generally fair weather in the country, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Wednesday.

According to state weather forecaster Lorie dela Cruz, “there will be no widespread scattered rains, no low pressure area and no typhoon in

‘ICC...

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enforcer, earlier said he expected to be arrested by the ICC next.

“Investigations are ongoing and confidentiality is a key element to ensure the success of the investigation so we cannot give more details on that,” Abdallah said.

Dela Rosa last month said he is considering hiding from authorities rather than surrender to the ICC should it move to have him arrested as a coconspirator in Duterte's crimes against humanity case.

“If we do not see any justice here in our country, why would you surrender?” Dela Rosa said. “That (not surrendering) is part of the course of action that can be done.”

Ex-PNP chief Oscar Albayalde,

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While the Philippines currently benefits from a lower tariff rate of 17 percent, Roque underscored the need for a collective ASEAN approach.

“We all work together as ASEAN," she said. "We haven't gone as far as determining what concessions will be on the table. We just want to listen to what they want to tell us.” The meeting will be held in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, chairman of ASEAN for 2025, but Roque will join her counterparts virtually.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with his economic managers Tuesday evening ahead of the ASEAN dialog, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederic Go said.

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, during an investment conference Wednesday, said the regional bloc must "act boldly" to accelerate regional economic integration as US tariffs left much of the world caught in the middle of a devastating trade war.

ASEAN countries, which count on the United States as their main export market, were among those slapped with the toughest levies by President Donald Trump.

"To remain relevant and resilient in a world where economic chaos is fast becoming the new normal, we must act boldly, decisively, and together to reaffirm ASEAN's commitment to a stable,

who succeeded Dela Rosa as head of the national police, said reports that he will also be targeted by the ICC “are mere speculation as of this time.”

“We did not give any illegal orders. If the people heard something from former President Digong on TV, we did not issue such orders to the police force because we know that we are law enforcers,” Albayalde said.

The ICC, in its arrest warrant, said there were "reasonable grounds to believe" at least 19 people had been urdered in the city by members of the "Davao Death Squad" headed by Duterte.

Additionally, based on the warrant, at least 24 people were killed by Philippines police in various locations.

Duterte, who is currently detained at the Scheveningen prison in The Hague, will have his next scheduled court ap-

predictable, and business-friendly environment," Kao said.

ASEAN governments have chosen not to retaliate against Washington, preferring dialog.

But their export-oriented economies risk being hurt by a global trade war after China—another key market—imposed its own tariffs on the United States.

"Without urgent and collective action to accelerate intra-ASEAN economic integration and diversify our markets and partnerships, we risk ceding our place in a fractured and fast-evolving global economy," Kao said.

Manufacturing powerhouse and ASEAN member Vietnam was hit with a 46 percent tariff on exports to the United States, while neighboring Cambodia—a major producer of low-cost clothing for big Western brands—was slapped with a 49 percent duty.

Other ASEAN nations hit with hefty tariffs are Laos (48 percent), Myanmar (44 percent), Thailand (36 percent), Indonesia (32 percent).

Malaysia, Southeast Asia's thirdlargest economy, was hit with a lower tariff of 24 percent.

Brunei also faces a 24 percent tariff while Singapore was hit with 10 percent.

The bloc has a combined population of more than 650 million but its members are at different stages of economic development, ranging from poorer countries like Laos and Cambodia to rich ones like financial center Singapore. With AFP

A central feature of the shrine is the imposing Memorial Cross, one of the tallest in the world. Standing 95 meters high at 555 meters above sea level, the cross is a marvel of steel and reinforced concrete. Its arms stretch 30 meters wide, with a viewing gallery accessible via elevator or staircase, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Trump...

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"The tariff escalation against China by the United States simply piles mistakes on top of mistakes (and) severely infringes on China's legitimate rights and interests," the ministry said. Washington's moves "severely damage the multilateral rules-based trade system," it added.

Trump said Tuesday his government was working on "tailored deals" with trading partners, with the White House saying it would prioritize allies like Japan and South Korea.

His top trade official Jamieson Greer also told the Senate that Argentina, Vietnam and Israel were among those who had offered to reduce their tariffs.

Trump told a dinner with fellow Republicans on Tuesday night that countries were "dying" to make a deal. "I'm telling you, these countries are calling us up, kissing my ass," he said.

The US president believes his policy will revive America's lost manufactur-

the next two to three days.”

“What we are closely monitoring is the heat index,” she added.Heat index in Metro Manila could reach 40 degrees Celsius (°C) or the extreme caution level.

“Prolonged exposure to this could possibly cause heat exhaustion and heat stress,” Dela Cruz said in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview.

PAGASA said the heat index

pearance on September 23 for the confirmation of the charges against him.

“For that, the judges need to verify the accusations against a higher threshold because they need to check if there are substantial grounds to believe that Mr. Duterte is responsible for such illegal conducts,” Abdallah said.

“That would be done by listening to the prosecutor...and to the defense counter-argumentation. There is also a possibility for the victims to present through a legal representative…their observations, their personal stories.”

He said the ICC prosecutor also has the option to pursue more charges against Duterte.

“Whether the prosecutor wants to request again, present additional evidence or request other charges, it will have to be presented to the judges, and then the judges will decide on that,”

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speed up the delivery of benefits to the families of fallen service members.

He acknowledged the delays and bureaucratic hurdles that have long hampered the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CSBP).

"It's sad to think that until now, some of you still haven't felt the help of the government," Mr. Marcos told families of fallen soldiers and police personnel.

The CSBP covers financial and livelihood assistance for families of military and other uniformed personnel who died in the line of duty.

"If it is clear that someone is KIA [killed in action] and you are the family, why are so many documents still needed?" he asked. "Let's simplify the process,”

During the event, the president announced that long-awaited benefits would finally be released to the families in attendance.

Meanwhile, the President called on Filipinos to draw strength and inspiration from the country’s wartime heroes as the nation honored the defenders of Bataan and other acts of bravery during World War II.

In a statement, Mr. Marcos said the commemoration was not only a tribute to the fallen but also a reminder that heroism lives on in everyday acts of service and compassion.

"We celebrate the valiant heroes of the defense of Bataan, and all Filipinos

Completed in 1970, the cross serves as a beacon of remembrance, its illuminated presence visible even across Manila Bay.

In recent years, efforts to enhance the site have gained momentum. Under the administration of President Marcos Jr., the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) initiated projects to upgrade the shrine’s facilities, including aesthetic lighting for the Memorial Cross and colonnade.

could reach the danger level of between 42°C to 51°C across the following areas: Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Echague, Isabela; Iba, Zambales; Olongapo City, Pampanga; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Camiling, Tarlac; Cavite City; Cuyo, Palawan; Virac, Catanduanes; Roxas City, Capiz; Iloilo City; Panglao, Bohol; Catarman, Northern Samar; Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte; Musuan, Bukidnon; and Butuan

Abdallah said.

Prosecutors initially sought three charges against Duterte – murder, torture, and rape – but the ICC chamber only issued a warrant for crimes against humanity for murder.

For her part, former United Nations Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard said Duterte's arrest was a victory for everyone who fought for justice.

“He went after me. He went after everybody. He went after President Obama, if I am not mistaken. He went after journalists. He went after the International Criminal Court. He mocked the International Criminal Court,” Callamard said in an interview with NewsWatch Plus.

“I think it's vindication for all of us. It is a demonstration that we should not lose sight of what matters,” she added.

who showed unwavering courage and patriotism during the Second World War," he said.

"Their remarkable story continues to inspire us all as we carry on their work of protecting our nation," he added.

In a statement, Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the courage of World War II heroes, saying their bravery during the Battle of Bataan should serve as a guiding light as the nation confronts modern-day challenges.

“Ang kagitingan ng mga Pilipino noong World War II sa Battle of Bataan ay umukit ng isang mahalagang pahina sa ating kasaysayan bilang paalala sa katapangan at kabayanihan ng ating lahi, sa gitna ng kalupitan at pangaapi,” she said.

Senate President Francis Escudero also urged Filipinos to remember those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom.

"From doing small acts of kindness to pursuing great goals for the nation, let us all unite to continue taking pride in our being Filipino," he said.

Escudero stressed that freedom is not easily won and is paid for with sweat, blood, and lives.

He also called on Filipinos to continue striving for the nation’s progress and to show courage and compassion in facing modern challenges.

For his part, House Speaker Martin Romualdez urged Filipinos to reflect not only on the battle of Bataan but also on the silent sacrifices and human cost that came with it.

City, Agusan del Norte. Dela Cruz warned that prolonged exposure under the danger level could trigger heat stroke.

The dry season is forecast to peak in the first or second week of May.

“The termination of the La Niña does not necessarily mean that there will be an El Niño. We are in a neutral condition now,” according to the state weather forecaster.

PBBM launches digital hub for food entrepreneurs

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. yesterday led the opening of the National Food Fair, celebrating Filipino culinary heritage and launching a new digital platform aimed at helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) reach wider markets.

In a speech launching the fair in Mandaluyong City, President Marcos lauded the creativity and resilience of Filipino food producers, from farmers to artisans, whose work, he said, brings pride and honor to the country.

"The colors are strikingly vibrant, and the mouthwatering aroma of Filipino dishes will greet you—which are truly delicious.," he said, describing the vibrant displays at the food fair.

The event also served as the launchpad for the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Bagong Pilipinas Marketplace, a businessto-business (B2B) e-commerce platform designed to support MSMEs in marketing their products locally and internationally.

"This is very important because it's using digital technology to expand markets, expand supply chains, and make the delivery of goods and services more efficient," Mr. Marcos said.

He emphasized that even the smallest vendors and producers can now tap into a much broader customer base using the platform, noting that distance is no longer a barrier in the digital space.

The marketplace will focus not only on market expansion but also on sustainability, innovation and the use of advanced technologies in food processing and manufacturing, according to the president.

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The upgrades also include a linear lighting system, improved pathways, and a state-of-the-art underground museum featuring augmented reality exhibits. These developments align with the Comprehensive Tourism Master Plan (CTMP) and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, showcasing a unified effort among national and local stakeholders.

Completed in May 2023, the lighting project aimed to increase tourist interest and revitalize the site’s nighttime operations after the pandemic.

ing base by forcing companies to relocate to the United States.

But many business experts and economists question how quickly—if ever—this can take place, warning of higher inflation as the tariffs raise prices.

Trump said Tuesday the United States was "taking in almost $2 billion a day" from tariffs.

In a separate statement, Beijing's commerce ministry said it would blacklist six American artificial intelligence firms, including Shield AI Inc. and Sierra Nevada Corp.

The companies had either sold arms to Taiwan or collaborated on "military technology" with the island, the commerce ministry said.

Late Tuesday, Trump also said the United States would announce a major tariff on pharmaceuticals "very shortly."

Separately, Canada said that its tariffs on certain US auto imports will come into force Wednesday.

Meltdown

After trillions in equity value were wiped off global bourses in the last

days, markets in Asia came under pressure again on Wednesday, with Hong Kong plunging more than three percent and Japan's Nikkei sinking 2.7 percent.

The markets accelerated their losses as the new tariffs came into effect, with Taiwan stocks closing down 5.8 percent in the afternoon.

Ahead of European markets' open, stock futures were also indicating steep drops ahead.

Foreign exchange markets likewise witnessed ructions, with the South Korean won falling to its lowest level against the dollar since 2009 this week.

China's offshore yuan also fell to an all-time low against the US dollar, as Beijing's central bank moved to weaken the yuan on Wednesday for what Bloomberg said was the fifth day in a row.

Analyst Stephen Innes said however, that "letting the yuan grind lower at this measured pace won't offset the blow from a full-blown tariff barrage."

"The levies are simply too big. China is trying to thread the needle, but the runway is short," he warned.

Oil prices slumped, with the West Texas Intermediate closing below $60 for the first time since April 2021.

Avoid 'further escalation'

The European Union has sought to cool tensions, with the bloc's chief Ursula von der Leyen warning against worsening the trade conflict in a call with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. She stressed stability for the world's economy, alongside "the need to avoid further escalation," said an EU readout.

The Chinese premier told von der Leyen that his country could weather the storm, saying it "is fully confident of maintaining sustained and healthy economic development."

The EU—which Trump has criticized bitterly over its tariff regime— may unveil its response next week to new 20 percent levies it faces.

In retaliation against US steel and aluminum levies that took effect last month, the EU plans tariffs of up to 25 percent on American goods ranging from soybeans to motorcycles, according to a document seen by Agence France Presse (AFP). AFP

“We already funded the lawyer. A local lawyer is taking on their case funded by the DFA Legal Assistance Fund and we're strongly requesting the Chinese authorities for this lawyer to at least see them in their detention in Hainan,” he told reporters.

“But for that, we also need the approval of the [Hainan] provincial governor. So we're working on that,” he added.

Before this, the DFA reminded the Chinese government that the three Filipinos should be accorded due process and full respect of their rights under domestic law and the Philippine-China Consular Agreement.

Article 13 of the consular agreement made in 2009 states: "A consular officer shall be entitled to visit a national of the sending State who is under detention, arrest or deprived of freedom by any other means, to converse or communicate with him in any language or dialect known to the detained national relating to his condition and his case and to arrange legal assistance for him."

It was reported that the three alleged spies were part of 50 Filipinos from Palawan province who received scholarships to the Hainan Normal University from 2018 to 2022 under a sister province agreement. They went home after completing their studies but returned to Hainan to accept job offers.

Earlier, the National Security Council (NSC) suggested that their arrest was done in "retaliation" for the rounding up of several alleged Chinese spies in the Philippines.

IN BRIEF

Iloilo Library goes digital for wider access

ILOILO – The Iloilo Provincial Library and Archives officially has launched its digital platforms, to allow residents access publications through their gadgets.

“This is the future of libraries.

We’re bringing books and information straight to the hands of the people,” Provincial Administrator Raul Banias said.

Held at the Capitol Lobby, the launch marked the debut of a fully accessible online library system, a pioneering move aimed at making government publications, historical records, and learning tools available to anyone, anytime, anywhere.

The digital transformation features four new online tools: Library Website (iloiloprovinciallibrary.com) – For news, events, and general information.

Digital Library (iloiloelibrary.com)

– A repository of government documents, Ilonggo heritage materials, and learning resources.

Virtual Reference Services – Realtime online help from library staff. Caloy Lozada

DILG backs PNP media security for elections

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said it is supporting the government’s initiatives to bolster the safety and security of media professionals, particularly as the midterm elections approach.

DILG Undersecretary Rolando Puno emphasized the crucial role of the media in a democratic society, highlighting their contribution to informed public decision-making through fact-checking, public opinion influence, and holding political figures accountable.

He noted that this vital function unfortunately exposes them to considerable dangers that can threaten their lives.

Puno, representing Secretary Jonvic Remulla at the launch and reactivation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Media Security Vanguards in Quezon City, underscored the government’s commitment to raising awareness about media security protocols and fostering stronger collaboration between the media and law enforcement agencies. Vince Lopez

DOH launches Mandaluyong patient safety plan

THE Department of Health (DOH) has unveiled the Mandaluyong Declaration, a comprehensive document outlining strategies to enhance patient safety across primary care, hospital care, and governance structures within the healthcare system.

DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa emphasized that patient safety transcends the confines of hospital settings, extending into communities, rural pharmacies, remote health centers, and even the care provided at home.

The declaration emerged as a significant outcome of the 7th Global Ministerial Summit on Patient Safety, a forum that convened global health leaders and experts to prioritize patient safety within all facets of healthcare systems.

The Mandaluyong Declaration articulates several key strategies aimed at fortifying patient safety, with a strong emphasis on fostering international collaboration to achieve these goals effectively. Ram Superable

Filipino dies in Myanmar quake; three still missing

By Rachelle Tonelada

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Wednesday that the remains of one of the four Filipinos previously reported missing in Mandalay, the epicenter of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, have been positively identified.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega confirmed the casualty as Francis Aragon, a 38-year-old overseas Filipino worker (OFW) employed as a Physical Education teacher in Myanmar, according to a report from GMA News.

“The family of the deceased Filipino has been so informed. Out of respect for their privacy in this time of grief, we are withholding further information on the matter,” the DFA said.

On Facebook, Aragon’s older brother Alvin said their family is processing this heartbreaking news.

The DFA assured the public that it remains committed to locating and identifying three other Filipinos who

remain missing.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it will be providing psychosocial and financial support for the families of migrant Filipinos who were affected by the quake.

In line with the directive of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the agency has committed to provide the assistance during a meeting with various national government agencies on Monday (April 7).

Director Maria Isabel Lanada of the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Bureau (DRMB), who attended the inter-agency meeting, said the Department will deploy psy-

chological first aid (PFA) providers to help alleviate the emotional and mental distress experienced by the families of identified Filipinos who were affected by the Myanmar tremor.

The government aid would initially prioritize the families and relatives of the 18 identified Filipinos who survived the earthquake.

This aid, according to Lanada, is critical since the most affected were overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Myanmar whose source of income was disrupted due to the disaster.

The DSWD will also send a team of PFA providers to Myanmar, in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), to further support those directly affected by the earthquake.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) meanwhile said it is is set to launch an infrastructure audit tool which will assess the structural integrity of buildings in preparation for the possibility of a large-magnitude earthquake or the “Big One” in the metropolis and nearby areas.

Binay: Gov’t must invest in teacher training

SENATORIAL candidate and Makati Mayor Abby Binay said that the government should invest in the professional development of teachers through programs for their continuing education and training.

“We must ensure that our teachers are effective and can keep pace with the rapid changes brought about by technology. They cannot be left behind. If they are, their students will be left behind as well,” Binay said.

She said that, like lawyers who are required to pursue continuing legal education, teachers should continuously hone their knowledge and skills to stay abreast of developments in their field.

Otherwise, investments in modernizing school facilities would have little impact on the current state of education in the country, she added.

“Ultimately, the quality of education rests on the effectiveness and competence of our teachers. They should be empowered to be excellent educators capable of adapting

to technological advancements that are rapidly transforming traditional ways of teaching,” Binay said.

She said, however, that the government should subsidize the costs so as not to cause added burden on teachers.

Binay said she wants to implement on a national level the programs introduced in Makati, where her administration has continued to priori-

tize the basics, allocating an annual budget for providing teachers with the tools and training they need.

Under Project TEACH, which stands for Teacher Effectiveness and Competence Honing, the city government, through its Special Education Fund, has subsidized executive courses for public school teachers with annual allocations ranging from P7 million to P15 million.

MORE than 25,000 residents have been displaced across seven localities in Negros Occidental following the explosive eruption of Mount Kanlaon on the morning of April 8, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) said.

The PDRRMC also reported that the 8,031 affected families came from 23 barangays in Bago City, La Castellana, Moises Padilla, La Carlota City, Murcia, San Carlos City, and Pontevedra. Currently, 14 evacuation centers are open, housing 1,770 families or 5,673 individuals.

The combined humanitarian assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), local government units (LGUs), and non-government organizations (NGOs) has reached ₱109.4 million, covering food packs, water, face masks, and other essential relief goods.

Mount Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3 (Magmatic Unrest) despite the April 8 eruption, which lasted nearly an hour. According to PHIVOLCS, no escalation to Alert Level 4 has been declared, but residents within the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone are still being urged to evacuate due to the threat of further eruptions.

Within 24 hours of the initial blast, PHIVOLCS recorded 15 volcanic earthquakes, 1 volcanic tremor, 1 ash emission, and a sulfur dioxide flux reaching 5,011 tons per day. Office of Civil Defense-Western Visayas Director Raul Fernandez stressed that they remain in close coordination with PHIVOLCS. Fernandez confirmed the eruption was phreatic, caused by pressure buildup beneath the volcano. The volcano’s crater was covered with thick ash deposits, contributing to the volume of ash expelled.

The Department of Tourism – Western Visayas has also called on tourism officers and stakeholders near Mount Kanlaon to activate emergency units to assist tourists affected by the eruption.

Joel E. Zurbano and Rex Espiritu

Disaster agency says over 25k displaced due to Mt. Kanlaon CSC orders halt to online partisan activities

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Civil Service Commission (CSC) has reminded government officials and employees to refrain from engaging in partisan political activities during the campaign period leading up to the May elections.

This includes online actions such as liking, commenting on, sharing, reposting, or following the social media accounts of candidates or political parties if these actions are intended to solicit support or opposition.

In Memorandum Circular 3-2025, the CSC cites the 1987 Constitution, the Administrative Code of 1987, the Omnibus Election Code, and the Local Government Code as the legal basis for this prohibition.

The CSC emphasizes that these restrictions apply not only during office hours and within office premises but also extend to activities conducted outside of work hours for the entire duration of the campaign period.

House Assistant Majority Leader Rep. Jude Acidre meanwhile called for urgent action against the misuse of social media by online personalities spreading disinformation and harmful content under the guise of “freedom of speech.”

His statement followed a House TriComm hearing highlighting the unchecked proliferation of such behavior. Acidre expressed alarm over the “dangerous distortion” of free speech, noting that some influencers believe they can say anything without consequence, disregarding basic decency and responsibility.

Acidre emphasized that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it is not absolute. He argued that this right should not infringe upon others’ rights to dignity, truth, and peace, questioning why ethical standards applied to traditional media are not enforced on social media platforms. He pointed out that social media, intended for connection and information sharing, is being misused to divide, attack, and mislead, with influencers using their platforms to spread lies and hate.

KAYANGAN LAKE.

A breathtaking view of the iconic Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan, Philippines— one of the  lead Asia’s diving boom, attracting global enthusiasts with vibrant reefs and thrilling marine adventures. Edd Castro

PARTY DRUGS. The  Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Port of Clark, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency – Airport Interdiction Unit (PDEA-AIU), intercepted a parcel containing Ecstasy tablets or “party drugs” concealed in boxes of gummy candies.

NEW HALFWAY HOME. Nueva Vizcaya Governor Jose V. Gambito leads the inauguration of Nueva Vizcaya Halfway Home for Women and Girls as part of the month-long Women’s Month celebration

LTFRB moves to ensure safe Lent travels

IN BRIEF

Angeles mayor orders closure of tobacco hub

ANGELES City Mayor Carmelo Laza-

tin Jr. has ordered the closure of an illegal tobacco processing firm in Barangay Margot here.

Barangay Margot chief Dominador Lising Jr. reported the alleged suspicious activities of the tobacco hub to executive assistant Reina Manuel who coordinated the operation to the Business Permit and Licensing Division headed by Enrico Romero.

It was confirmed that the tobacco company was operating without a business permit. Lazatin personally led the multi-sector raid on the targeted company However, no cigarettes or other finished tobacco products were found during the closure of the company. Butch Gunio

PH, Canada conduct flight safety course

THE Naval Air Wing has conducted an AFP-hosted Flight Safety Course (FSC), in partnership with the Canadian Directorate of Military Training at the Heracleo Alano Naval Base.

During the event, Canadian ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman underscored the importance of international collaboration in aviation safety and the enduring ties between Canada and the Philippines.

“This course is not merely about following procedures; it’s about equipping each individual with the knowledge and confidence to make vital decisions that directly impact lives. The safety measures developed today will serve as the foundation for the future, ensuring safe, responsible, and efficient military aviation,” Hartman said. Representatives from the aviation units of the AFP’s major services participated in the FSC, which focused on advancing aviation safety and accident prevention measures. Rex Espiritu

DAR donates P3.55-m gear to Surigao farmers

THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has donated P3.55 million worth of farming equipment to two agrarian reform beneficiary organizations in Surigao del Norte in a bid to boost rice production in the province.

Rocky Aborro, chairman of the Roxas Community Agrarian Reform Cooperative based in Brgy. Roxas, expressed gratitude for the support that they received.

“We are very thankful to the DAR for this FME (farm machinery and equipment). It is a great help to our cooperative and to all farmers in need. We hope this kind of assistance continues so more ARBs can benefit,” Aborro said in a statement.

PH, Aussie armies explore enhanced defense ties

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine and Australian armies explored enhancement of interoperability and deepening defense cooperation during their talks held April 7-8, 2025 at the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Key topics of the 8th Philippine Army-Australian Army Staff Talks included plans for combined arms

training, the Australian National Defense Strategy, and the Philippine Army’s strategic direction for 20252026.

The meeting also included reviews of activities conducted in 2024, underscoring the importance of sustained engagement and preparedness in addressing regional security challenges.

The two-day discussions brought together key military leaders, with

BOC seizes P7.6-m illegal in Port of Clark, Pampanga

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has intercepted at the Port of Clark in Pampanga a parcel containing Ecstasy tablets, also called “party drugs,” concealed in boxes of candies, along with several non-drug items such as Belgian waffle biscuits worth more than P7.6 million.

The shipment originated from Brussels, Belgium and consigned to a Quezon City resident.

The drugs were discovered following intelligence information from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Inspection of the dubious shipment revealed seven boxes containing gummy candies, which also concealed 4,491 tablets suspected to be Ecstasy or MDMA.

Chemical analysis conducted by the PDEA confirmed the presence of methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a prohibited drug under the amended Republic Act No. 9165.

“This operation sends a clear and strong message—the Port of Clark will not be a gateway for illegal drugs. Let this be a firm warning to smugglers and consignees attempting to exploit our borders,” Customs district Collector Jairus Reyes said.

Maj. Gen. Ferdinand Napuli, acting chief of the Philippine Army, leading the Philippine delegation, and Maj. Gen. Chris Smith, deputy chief of Army of the Australian Army, representing his country. Napuli expressed gratitude for the productive discussions, emphasizing the significance of the strengthened partnership in ensuring security and stability across the Asia-Pacific region.

By Rio N. Araja and Darwin Amojelar

IN light of the expected surge of travelers to the provinces during the Lenten season, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has granted special permits to over 1,000 buses and launched inspections to ensure safe and orderly Holy Week journeys.

LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said a total of 1,018 special permits have been issued as of April 8 to boost the supply of provincial buses during the peak travel period from April 11 to 27, covering the Holy Week and the days immediately after.

Complementing the issuance of special permits was conduct of random inspections of public utility vehicles and transport terminals to check the validity of operators’ documents, including permits, fare matrices, vehicle markings and safety accessories.

The inspections will continue throughout the travel rush.

“Our reminder to the passengers this Holy Week is to plan their travel ahead of time. Check the schedules of trips and ensure their tickets and other necessary documents are in order,” Guadiz said. Private terminals are not spared from the agency’s inspection to start on April 11 to ensure the presence of help desks and sufficient personnel to assist the passengers.

Apart from enforcement efforts, the LTFRB chief warned the public against using unregistered vehicles that pose safety risks.

“Let us avoid taking a ride in colorum or illegal vehicles that have not passed through the right inspections and do not have insurance coverage for the passengers,” he said.

He reminded passengers to continue practising the basic health precautions during their trips even if face masks are no longer required.

He encouraged travelers to carry hygiene kits, alcohol and face masks for their protection, especially in crowded areas. He said the LTFRB is ready to respond to public concerns as it urged passengers to report any complaints through its 24/7 hotline at 1342, official Facebook page, or via email at complaints@ltfrb.gov.ph.

DUMAGUETE City – The electoral board of the Diocese of Dumaguete eyes the deployment of some 15,000 volunteers for the upcoming May 12 national and local elections.

According to Msgr. Julius Perpetuo Heruela, panel convenor and Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) coordinator for Negros Oriental and Siquijor, the volunteers would assist before, during, and after election day.

“The volunteers include poll watchers, technical personnel, logistics, and other support staff,” Heruela said.

As an umbrella organization of the PPCRV and other organizations, the Diocesan Electoral Board (DEB) is recognized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) as a partner during electoral exercises.

The DEB advocates CHAMP, meaning clean, honest, accurate, meaningful, and peaceful elections.

The board has conducted voter education training in coordination with partner schools ahead of the May 12 polls. About 100 volunteers from the different parishes attended a parallel event focused on responsible and factual reporting and countering misinformation, and disinformation.

The volunteers were told to maximize the use of social media in promoting CHAMP elections while reporting at the same time incidents related to the forthcoming political exercise.

The Comelec has tapped the PPCRV and the National Citizens Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) as citizens’ arms during the May midterm elections.

RUSTIC SCENE. Children tread rice paddies during an early morning walk to school. Who needs school bus here, anyway? Dave Leprozo Jr.

OPINION

If China attacks Taiwan

THE Brawner saber-rattling about our inevitably being drawn into conflict should China “invade” Taiwan has created questions about the safety of our Filipino countrymen, mostly contract workers, residing in the island very close to northern Philippines. A constant agenda item in all board meetings of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office, our de facto “embassy” in Taiwan, has been the resident representative’s report to the MECO board on the situation in the Taiwan Strait and the relations between Taiwan and mainland China which considers the island a “province.”

Which is why as MECO chairman and resident representative during the first five years of the Duterte administration, I received calls asking about the safety of our OFWs in the island. One of the callers wanted to call his wife and children vacationing as tourists in Taiwan to come back, pronto.

Of course I had to calm them down. Those war games, where China displays its military might, exercising for a possible attack, are really par for the course. The intention is to wear the Taiwan military and their equipment down, and psychologically strike fear upon the population.

Truth is, less than 10 percent of the 23.4 million Taiwanese are descended from the native Austronesians who populated the island which the Portuguese called Ilha Formosa (beautiful island) when they occupied it.

Even these indigenous Taiwanese have inter-married with Chinese from the mainland who traded with them in much the same way our forefathers did before the white colonialists came.

Hakka and Fujian traders and farmers started settling in Formosa, with a pirate named Koxinga ruling over the island until the great exodus from the mainland after Chiang Kai Shek’s defeat at the hands of the communists under Mao Tse Tung increased the Taiwanese population tremendously. The Nationalists or Kuomintang retreated to the island which was surrendered by China to Japan in 1895 who occupied it for half a century, about the same time we were colonized by the Americans.

When America defeated the Japanese in the Second World War, they gave Taiwan back to the then Kuomintang-led China, until it lost the civil war against Mao’s forces.

Chiang ruled Taiwan with a strong hand, keeping alive his dream of re-conquering the mainland. His son, Chiang Ching Kuo later slowly “democratized,” leading to what is now a free and democratic polity with a strong, export-oriented economy.

Due to a lack of manpower to boost its factories, Taiwan opened its labor market to Vietnamese, Indonesians and Filipinos.

Our OFW’s, numbering some 150,000, comprise the third largest number of contract workers there. There are likewise some 12,000 Filipinos who have intermarried and raised families, plus a few hundred students enrolled in their universities.

If an armed conflict arises, our paramount interest would be how to secure the Filipinos in the island, and if need be, how to bring them back home. That is not going to be easy, a “prepared” NOLCOM notwithstanding.

—“—

Inducing fear and panic at this time serves no cogent purpose

It is obvious that China would immediately target airports, seaports and military installations mostly intertwined with these ports through an air attack, while their navy brings in the invading force.

China should do this swiftly before Japan and the US could join the fray, if it is minded to.

Given that likely scenario, how will our aircraft and ships “rescue” our 160,000 Filipinos in the island, assuming it becomes necessary to do so? It would be a logistical nightmare.

Is Brawner, and our government for that matter, ready with a plan?

In our time, with the resident representatives of Vietnam and Indonesia, we discussed the matter with Taiwanese officials, who assured us there would be adequate space for expatriates in their bomb shelters and evacuation centers.

Stockpiles of food and drinking water have likewise been pre-positioned, they assured us.

As MECO cannot merely rely on immediate assistance from the Philippine government, it created a contingency fund for such eventuality.

But in the end, we believe China can and shall wait for a time when the Taiwanese people and government will “re-unify” in peace with their mainland “cousins.”

Neither side wants war, most especially killing fellows and devastating a progressive economy.

Unless the Taiwan government declares “independence” which will force mainland China to make good its threat of using force to thwart it, the modus vivendi with its ups and downs, will continue.

Though China’s wish for timeline of a 2027 re-unification draws near, the hope that both sides will come to a mutually acceptable compromise is high, especially with the Taiwanese population.

Inducing fear and panic at this time serves no cogent purpose.

Public transportation and fares

EVERY administration after Martial Law has grappled with how to develop an efficient Metro Manila public transport system which to date is still a work in progress.

This is due to the failure to integrate the many transport types existing in the NCR into an efficient operating system. This refers to the rail, bus, jeepney, tricycles, motor cycle taxis and others.

The preferred trend by recent DOTr leaderships is to continue building rail lines and then, if possible, turn them over to private management. This is also true in part on road transportation particularly the buses.

This is due to the notion that the operation of these two transport modes would be more efficient in private hands.

The problem with mass transportation in private hands is that fares would be very much higher which runs counter to the established worldwide practice of keeping public transportation fares cheap and affordable so that the public will patronize it. The recent increase in fares by the LRT 1 is one good example.

A round trip ticket of P110 is expensive and passengers interviewed by the media said so themselves. It should not be this way because if the cost of using public transport approaches the cost of amortizing a car or a motorbike, then people will opt for the car.

The EDSA bus carousel fare is not cheap either because the maximum one way fare is P75.50 from Monumento to PITX which adds up to P151 for a round trip ticket.

It is a huge challenge to the DOTr leadership to be able to integrate all these modes to operate efficiently

This is not to mention the increased fees in our privatized airports. Since the DOTr has decided on privatization as the way going forward, it would not be

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: Generate a political cartoon in horizontal format of a man, with a necktie, in a ruffled and messy dark suit falling down the floor as he stumbles face down on the floor after sideswiping a woman’s leg labeled ‘democracy.’ His face is covered with a huge cheese wheel with inserted dollar bills jutting out. There are stars over the man’s head. On his rumpled suit are the words ‘billionaire’s influence.’ The tone is funny and light. The colors look like they are applied by color markers.

Valor

YESTERDAY,

the nation marked Araw ng Kagitingan.

But this day passed largely unnoticed to many despite its importance. This annual official non-working day, after all, translates to Day of Valor, and commemorates the fall of Bataan to Japanese troops during the Second World War, and the start of the Bataan Death March.

In its usual sense, valor equates with bravery in battle. We know very well that Filipinos firmly resisted Japanese occupation between 1941 and 1945.

Together with American allies, Filipino troops assisted by local guerrillas managed to regain our freedom from foreign invaders despite heavy loss of lives and huge economic cost.

Starting in 1946, the nation began to recover from the ruins of war and started to rebuild infrastructure and restart economic activities to allow Filipinos to face the future with confidence.

But valor is needed not just in wartime but perhaps more so in times of

farfetched to see MRT 3 and LRT 2 being given to private companies to operate making fares more expensive.

Even the Public Utility Modernization Program which was started in 2017 may be modified as reported in the media which got the program participants scratching their heads. What sort of modification is the DOTr thinking of?

The conversion of the Cooperative system to privately owned transportation companies?

Let us hope not because a change will further delay and might discourage prospective operators from joining due to constant policy changes every time a new DOTr leadership takes over.

The PUVMP as envisioned and currently constituted should be maintained because the Cooperative system is some kind of a middle ground approach crafted by the government.

The PUVMP remains essentially in private hands but the government can still maintain some kind of supervisory

peace. Embarking on recovery and rehabilitation in the postwar era required determined efforts to rebuild political structures and processes, hasten economic development and fortify social institutions.

Valor—or what is also called heroism—is what the nation needs at this time, when our people stand at a crossroads, when Filipinos need to choose between democracy and demagoguery, between participatory democracy and iron-fisted rule.

Valor is needed not just in wartime but perhaps more so in times of peace

It means speaking out against corruption in whatever form or scale.

It involves resisting those who use public office for personal gain. It asks us to be resolute in demanding those in government to truly serve the people and not steal from national treasury. It entails taking the bull by the horns and exposing those who seek only to prolong their grip on power

relationship with the Transport Cooperatives. This is why none of the participants in the PUVMP joined any of the jeepney transport strikes staged by MANIBELA and others. The full implementation of the PUVMP program is therefore one good solution to the perennial transport strikes causing disruptions and also a way of rationalizing and perhaps tempering the constant increases in fare prices asked by private transport operators.

As I keep saying, there are certain thingsthe government should not privatize and one of them is mass transportation. Why? Because for private operators, profit is a huge motive while the government’s is more on service.

What the DOTr should concentrate on is to find ways on how to integrate all the public transport system operating in the Metro area.

What this essentially means is rail, buses, jeepneys and tricycles must not

and protect their political and economic interests.

It demands the concerted effort of government, private sector and civil society to put an end to poverty in this country and bridge the yawning gap between the rich and the poor or social inequality that breeds rebellion and criminality.

And it also compels us to defend national sovereignty and the integrity of the national territory despite overwhelming odds.

In this vein, we commend the efforts of groups like Akbayan to honor the courage and commitment of the women and men who stand as the first line of defense in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

They extolled the selfless service of our maritime frontliners from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources that have stood firm against harassment and aggression to protect our sovereign rights and protect the livelihood of our fisherfolk.

We need to channel the spirit of modern-day heroism through active citizenship and solidarity as part of a broader movement to generate support for our struggle to defend our seas and our sovereignty.

be competing with each other or running along the same line. The trick is to assign each mode to different lines not being utilized by the other.

Buses should run only on arterial roads while jeepneys should run along distributor roads. Tricycles can take narrow Barangay roads.

Currently, all these systems are not complementing each other and are operating on their own without much government coordination, supervision and direction.

There is also a hybrid program in place like the PUVMP that is working which should be enlarged to include buses.

It is a huge challenge to the DOTr leadership to be able to integrate all these modes to operate efficiently. They should also look back into how the first Marcos administration dealt with the problem and maybe learn from it.

IN BRIEF

Kim’s sister slams US denuclearization plan

SEOUL—Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister slammed US-led efforts to take away North Korea’s nuclear weapons, saying the idea of denuclearizing the country was a “daydream.”

Her remarks come after the top diplomats of South Korea, Japan and the United States issued a statement on the sidelines of a NATO meeting last week in which they “reaffirmed their resolute commitment to the complete denuclearization” of the isolated state.

In a statement published Wednesday by the official Korean Central News Agency (KNCA), the sister of ruler Kim Jong Un said that any discussion of convincing the North to give up its nuclear weapons is “nothing but a daydream that can never come true.”

“If anyone openly talks about dismantling nuclear weapons... it just constitutes the most hostile act of denying the sovereignty of the DPRK,” Kim Yo Jong said Tuesday. AFP

5.0-magnitude quake hits Taiwan—USGS

TAIPEI—A magnitude-5.0 earthquake hit northeastern Taiwan on Wednesday, the US Geological Survey said, causing buildings to shake in the capital Taipei.

The quake struck at a depth of nearly 70 kilometers in Yilan County, near Taipei, USGS said.

Yilan fire authorities told AFP there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

“I felt the building shaking briefly when the quake hit,” said an official at Yilan Fire Bureau.

The National Fire Agency said there had been no reports of damage anywhere on the island.

Train services, including high speed rail, were not affected by the quake, although Taipei’s underground metro temporarily reduced the speed of its trains. AFP

Prominent US academic detained on Thai royal insult charge

BANGKOK—A prominent American academic was detained on Tuesday and charged with insulting Thailand’s monarchy, his lawyer told AFP Wednesday, in a rare case of a foreign national falling foul of the kingdom’s strict lesemajeste law.

Paul Chambers, who has spent more than a decade teaching Southeast Asia politics in Thailand, is in pre-trial detention awaiting a decision on his bail request, lawyer Wannaphat Jenroumjit said.

“He denied the charge,” Wannaphat told AFP.

Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his close family are protected from criticism by the lese-majeste law, with each offense punishable by up to 15 years in jail. AFP

Nearly 100 dead in nightclub roof collapse in D. Republic

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic—Rescuers raced to find survivors early Wednesday after the roof of a Dominican Republic nightclub collapsed during a concert by popular singer Rubby Perez, one of nearly 100 people killed in the disaster.

Rescue workers were pressing on with the search effort, which more than 24 hours after the roof caved in began to be limited more to recovering bodies.

Renowned Dominican merengue singer Perez, who was on stage at the popular Jet Set nightclub when the roof collapsed shortly after midnight Tuesday, was one of those killed, ac-

BREAKTHROUGH

TALKS. Men walk past a mural depicting the Statue of Liberty with the torch-bearing arm broken, painted on the outer walls of the former US embassy in Tehran, colloquiallyreferred to as the ‘Spy Den,’ on Tuesday. Iran said it will send its top diplomat to Oman for breakthrough talks with the United States, after President Donald Trump announced direct discussions on its nuclear program. Iran ally Russia welcomed the prospect of negotiations for a new nuclear accord to replace the deal with major powers unilaterally abandoned by Trump in 2018. AFP

cording to his manager.

“We are waiting for the children to reach an agreement for the funeral,” Perez’s manager Enrique Paulino told AFP.

About 370 rescue personnel combed mounds of fallen bricks, steel bars and tin sheets for survivors.

Also among the dead was 51-yearold retired Major League Baseball

pitcher Octavio Dotel, who won a World Series in 2011 with the St Louis Cardinals. He was rescued alive but died of his injuries while being taken to hospital, local media reported.

A black-and-white photo of the player and images of the Dominican flag were projected onto the scoreboard at Citi Field in New York before Tuesday’s game between the New York Mets and the Miami Marlins.

“Peace to his soul,” the Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League wrote on social media. Local media said there were between 500 and 1,000 people in the club when disaster struck at around 12:44 am

US won’t allow China to disrupt Panama Canal, says Pentagon chief

PANAMA CITY—The United States will not allow China to “threaten” the operations of the Panama Canal, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned during a visit to the Central American nation on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time).

Hegseth is the second senior US official to visit Panama since President Donald Trump took office in

January vowing to “take back” the US-built canal to counter what he sees as China’s influence over the waterway.

“Today, the Panama Canal faces ongoing threats,” Hegseth said in a speech at a police station located at the entry to the shipping route.

“The United States of America will not allow communist China or

any other country to threaten the canal’s operation or integrity,” he added.

The United States built the more than century-old canal and handed it over to Panama in 1999.

Hegseth met with Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino, with the two issuing a joint statement that affirmed security ties—though there

was a notable discrepancy in the versions released by both sides on the issue of Panama’s sovereignty over the canal.

“Secretary Hegseth recognized Panama’s leadership and inalienable sovereignty over the Panama Canal and its adjacent areas,” read a Spanish-language statement released by Mulino’s office. AFP

Canadians bristle at Trump water threats

SARNIA, Canada—Like many Canadian border cities, Sarnia has seen a surge of patriotism in response to President Donald Trump’s aggressive behavior, but residents of the community on Lake Huron have focused on one threat in particular: local waters.

Trump’s trade war has raised fears of a Canadian recession and his repeated references to annexation have sparked outrage.

But in Sarnia, Ontario, Trump’s reported musings about scrapping agreements related to the Great Lakes have triggered added contempt.

“Lake Huron means a lot to me. I grew up on the lake,” said Jay Casbourn, who is part of a group of Sar-

nia residents making red “Proud to be Canadian” signs that are increasingly being displayed across the city of some 72,000 people.

“If Mr. Trump wants to move that border, he is going to have a big fight on his hands.”

The US president—and which Canadian leader can best confront him —are dominant topics in Sarnia ahead of the April 28 general election.

The city has elected a conservative member of parliament in several consecutive votes, even as liberals won elections elsewhere in Ontario.

But midway through this year’s campaign, some voters said partisan preferences had taken a back seat to concerns about US tensions. AFP

Tuesday. The club has capacity for 700 people seated and about 1,000 people standing. Dozens of ambulances ferried the injured to hospital, as scores of people gathered outside the venue desperately seeking news of their loved ones. Perez was on stage when there was a blackout and the roof came crashing down, according to eyewitness reports.

Perez’s daughter Zulinka told reporters she had managed to escape after the roof collapsed, but he did not. Also among the dead was the governor of the Monte Cristi municipality, Nelsy Cruz, according to President Luis Abinader. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC—A US federal judge ordered the White House on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) to restore the Associated Press’s access to President Donald Trump’s official events, saying it had no right to bar media for their “viewpoints.” AP journalists and photographers have been barred from the Oval Office and from traveling on Air Force One since mid-February because of the news agency’s decision to continue referring to the “Gulf of Mexico”—and not the “Gulf of America” as decreed by Trump.

District Judge Trevor McFadden said the “viewpoint-based denial of the AP’s access” was a violation of the First Amendment to the US Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and of the press.

“If the Government opens its doors to some journalists—be it to the Oval Office, the East Room, or elsewhere—it cannot then shut those doors to other journalists because of their viewpoints,” McFadden said.

“The Government has singled out the AP because of its refusal to update the Gulf’s name in its Stylebook,” the judge said. “The Government offers no reason besides the Gulf issue for the exclusion.”

He ordered the White House to “immediately rescind the denial of the AP’s access to the Oval Office, Air Force One, and other limited spaces... when such spaces are made open to other members of the White House press pool.”

The judge put off implementation of his order for five days to give the White House time to reply or to file an appeal with a higher court.

AP spokeswoman Lauren Easton welcomed the court’s decision.

“Today’s ruling affirms the fundamental right of the press and public to speak freely without government retaliation,” Easton said in a statement. “This is a freedom guaranteed for all Americans in the US Constitution.”

The AP filed suit against the White House after it began denying access to some of Trump’s official events to the wire service’s reporters and photographers. AFP

Lim, Olivarez lead strong cast in Iloilo Open

THE country’s top and rising tennis players are in the spotlight as they compete for prestige and ranking points in the Semana Sang Iloilo National Open Championship, which kicked off Thursday at the Iloilo Sports Complex.

Leading the pack is former junior standout Alberto Lim, who holds the top seed. Hot on his heels is multi-titled and second ranked Eric Jed Olivarez, aiming to extend his streak of Open victories. Their anticipated clash headlines the 32-player draw that serves as a centerpiece for the week-long celebration of Iloilo’s founding anniversary.

Challenging the Lim-Olivarez showdown are seasoned competitors including Vicente Anasta, Fritz Verdad, John Kendrick Bona, Noel Salupado, Rolly Saga and Philippe Coteron – all eager to leave their mark on the tournament.

Running concurrently is the Juniors Championships, sanctioned by Philta, which features five age divisions for boys and girls.

Top names in the 18-and-under division include Ian Ituriaga, Zane Hechanova, Anthony Zapatos, Gian dela Cruz, Alexandra Onte and Aleeva Suace.

In the 16-and-U bracket, all eyes are on Anthony Castigador, Andrian Rodriguez, Fredrick Perlas and Gabriel del Rosario, alongside standout girls Besper Zapatos and Kathlyn Bugna.

Sanctioned by Philta and staged under the PPS-PEPP nationwide talent search led by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro, the event also includes other categories. Aside from the Open and Juniors events, the tournament, backed by Dunlop, Universal Tennis, and GOLF Icon & Sports, also features the Legends 40s and 50s, the Classified B and C doubles, the women’s doubles and the pro-am men’s doubles For details, contact Bobby Mangunay, PPS-PEPP program director and tournament organizer, at 09154046464.

Bugna, fresh off a double victory at the MAC’s Crankit Foundation National Juniors in Pasig, is also competing in the 14-and-U category, facing off against Theriz Zapatos, Abby Joy Castigador and Claire Fungo.

Castigador, who earned MVP honors alongside Bugna at MAC’s Crankit, will also contend in 14-and-U, with strong competition from Francisco de Juan III, Jacob Caro and Phine Billones. In the 12-and-U division, de Juan and Caro lead the charge, joined by Don Olavides and Mohammed Blanca. The girls’ group features Donarose Olavides, Kate Chavez, Diana Alcarde and Abby Joy Castigador.

The 10-and-U unisex category showcases the youngest talents like Alekzander Lorenzo, Donarose Olavides, Miguel Chavez and Marie Balbon.

ARahm shoots for 2nd Masters’ title

UGUSTA —Former Masters champion Jon Rahm says the mystique of Augusta National has an extra dimension for Spanish golfers still inspired by Seve Ballesteros, the first European to win the coveted green jacket.

Olazabal in 1994 and ‘99, and Sergio Garcia in 2017.

“I think it all started with Seve,” Rahm said Tuesday as he prepared for a practice round ahead of Thursday’s start to the 89th edition of the Masters.

“I think he set that essence, and it can’t be a coincidence that the last two Spanish players to win it both won it on what would have been Seve’s birthday.

“There’s definitely something here going on with him and with all of us, and I think it’s something we can all feel.”

Rahm will be hoping some of that Seve spirit can help him get off to a solid start in the first major championship of 2025, after a disappointing showing in last year’s majors amid his move to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit in December of 2023.

Rahm finished tied for 45th in his Masters defense last year. He missed the cut at the PGA Championship and withdrew from the US Open with a foot injury before finishing with a share of seventh at the Open Championship.

“Not my favorite major season last year, that’s true,” Rahm said. “Didn’t play great here, didn’t play great at the PGA, and wasn’t even able to tee it up at the US Open.

“I was very happy to finish up there at The Open on a very challenging week. At least set the tone hopefully for this year, and feel like I’m playing much better golf coming into this week.”

Rahm won the individual championship in his debut LIV Golf season -bagging the $18 million bonus prize.

- Full Spanish four-ballHe has yet to win in 2025, but started the year with a runner-up finish in Riyadh and has since added four more

Rewrite or repeat? Angels, Cool Smashers clash

One, only to suffer a heartbreaking series loss after Creamline stormed back to win the final two games, capturing its sixth conference crown.

This time, the Angels are determined not to let history repeat itself.

Creamline

THE ongoing All-Filipino Finals isn’t just about a title – it’s about history. In a rematch of the 2023 championship showdown, the Premier Volleyball League’s marquee clash between Petro Gazz and Creamline has once again placed destiny in the spotlight. And as the Angels drew first blood in the bestof-three series at the Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday, pulling off a gritty 25-17, 2520, 18-25, 20-25, 15-10 victory, the question now looms: will Petro Gazz finally change the narrative, or will Creamline once more defy the odds?

In a déjà vu scenario from two years ago, Petro Gazz had also claimed Game

“We just can’t think about that time,” said star hitter Brooke Van Sickle, referencing the 2023 meltdown. “We remember it, we take lessons from it, but we’re not going to relive it. One game at a time, one point at a time – we just have to finish it.”

Game Two is set at 6:30 tonight (Thursday) at the Araneta Coliseum with Akari also shooting for the bronze against Choco Mucho at 4 p.m.

Van Sickle spearheaded the Game

One victory with a 24-point explosion and 14 excellent digs, igniting the Angels and earning praise for her clutch performance. But she knows the battle is far from over.

“I’m expecting Creamline to come out

with their best volleyball on Thursday,” she added. “We need to be ready. We can’t let the energy drop, especially not against a team like Creamline.”

Her teammate MJ Phillips, who delivered 16 points – including six in the decisive fifth set – echoed that resolve.

“I just kept looking them (my teammates) in the eyes, like ‘You got me, I got you.’ I treated every point like it was my last,” said Phillips. “And with my team behind me, I was able to do well.”

Despite the momentum, the Angels remain wary of Creamline’s pedigree. With 10 championships in 13 Finals appearances – including five of the last six titles and a Grand Slam run – Creamline has built a legacy of resilience and championship DNA.

“Creamline is very strong, but my players delivered a very good performance,” said Petro Gazz coach Koji Tsuzurabara, sidestepping further questions with his trademark “no comment” cool.

GlobalPort makes US Open quarters after comeback win vs. Park Place

GLOBALPORT fought through a gloomy weather and an early deficit to pull the rug from under newlycrowned US Gold Cup champion Park Place to book a spot in the quarterfinals of the US Open Polo Championships at the National Polo Center in Wellington Florida, late Tuesday, April 8 (Manila time)

Led by team owner and sport patron Mikee Romero, GlobalPort battled back from a huge 5-2 deficit in the contest that was momentarily halted by a rain and lightning delay at the end of the second chukker.

The break, however, proved to be what GlobalPort needed as the team managed to compose themselves and get their acts together for the comefrom-behind win over the United Kingdom-based team but owner Russian sponsor Andrey Bordain.

Bartolome Castagnola led the way for GlobalPort with five goals – including two in the fourth chukker

when the team made its run and cut Park Place’s advantage to just one, 6-7.

GlobalPort held Park Place scoreless in the next chukker while Castagnola tied the game at 7-apiece. There was simply no looking back from there as three straight goals from Beltran Laulhe and Nico Escobar gave GlobalPort a commanding 10-7 lead in the sixth.

With the win, GlobalPort ended the group stage of the 22-goal tournament, largely considered as the crowning jewel of US Polo, on a twogame win streak after also taking down BTA, 10-7 in its second game.

The Philippine crew finished second in its group with a 2-1 record with its lone loss coming against La Dolfina Tamera, 7-9. Quarterfinals of the tournament is set Saturday, April 12 with GlobalPort facing off La Dolfina Catamount.

top-10 finishes and says he’s “feeling really, really good about this year in general.”

Rahm was heading out on Tuesday afternoon for a practice round alongside Olazabal, Garcia and Spanish amateur Jose Luis “Josele” Ballester -- who is making his Masters debut after following his 2023 European Amateur championship victory with a win in the US Amateur last year.

“Full Spanish four-ball with Ollie, Sergio, Josele,” Rahm said. “Quite special to be able to share the stage with two past champions, with Ollie, which I spent basically two and a half hours asking Ollie to tell us stories because he has a story for every tree that has been on property and shots that he’s seen and things like that -- same with Sergio.”

While Ballester is getting his first taste of Augusta National, another Spaniard has actually joined the ranks of Spanish champions at the fabled Georgia club this year as Carla Bernat Escuder won the Augusta National Women’s Amateur last week.

“Spanish players being known for being rather creative with good short games, I think that’s usually a recipe that works really well at Augusta National,” Rahm said. “There’s no surprise that there’s now five champions here.” AFP

nila at saka mostly makadalawa kami sa singles… so sabi namin na huwag lang i-pressure ‘yung sarili. Total, sanay naman sila na nakarating sila finals. Kumbaga sa experience, medyo lamang kayo sabi ko, [so] laruin niyo lang ‘yung laro niyo,” said NU coach Ronard Joven.

“Iba kasi talaga ‘pag nakuha mo ‘yung Game 1 kasi nangyari na samin last year noong Game 1 natalo kami so iba ‘yung pressure na nabibigay ‘pag natalo ka ng Game 1. Ito ngayon kasi nanalo sila ng Game 1 so medyo mas mataas ‘yung confidence nila ngayon sa laro,” he added. Rovie Baulete and Adi Abadia delivered the pivotal win in the series opener, defeating Judy Padilla and Debbie Gom-os 6-2, 6-2 in the first doubles match, giving the defending champions a 1-0 lead in the bestof-three final.

GlobalPort owner Mikee Romero gets a congratulatory kiss from son Steff after the team’s dramatic come-from-behind win over US Gold Cup champion Park Place. SR Facebook

Jon Rahm of Spain plays his shot from the 12th tee during a practice round prior to the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. AFP

THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Filipinas’ offense pleases Torcaso

By Peter Atencio

MANY players of Philippine national women’s football team are offensive threats.

National coach Mark Torcaso said this after the team wrap up its training camp in the United Arab Emirates.

“To score eight goals in the last two games is very good. Lots of different goal scorers as well, which is good for us,” said Torcaso.

In their last friendly with the UAE, the Filipinas beat the host squad, 4-0, at the UAE Football Association Headquarters in Dubai.

Facing a more defensively resilient UAE side this time around, the Filipinas sent in goals from four different scorers.

“It’s about building on the way we want to play and hopefully in the highlights, you’ll see the really good goals we scored. Really pleased with how the girls played in the last two games,” added Torcaso.

Hali Long, Carleigh Frilles and Chandler McDaniel all found the targets after the halftime break. Their goals came after Sara Eggesvik struck in the opener.

“We need to understand that we’re going to play in the Asian Cup Qualifiers, and we’re going to be playing teams like this that are defensively very good. So playing UAE now is extremely good because, we’re going to come up against Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Saudi Arabia,” said Torcaso.

The win gave the Filipinas a total of eight goals since their first friendly, where they pulled off a 4-1 win over the United Arab Emirates on Friday.

PH sambo team bags 3 golds, 1 silver in US Open

By Randy M. Caluag

THE Pilipinas Sambo Team delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 USA Open International Sambo Cup, capturing three gold medals and one silver in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Chino Sy emerged victorious in the highly competitive +88kg Sport Sambo category, while Sydney Sy dominated the +72kg Sport Sambo division, both securing gold medals.

Aislinn Agnes Yap further bolstered the Philippines’ medal count with a gold in the +72kg Combat Sambo event.

Jomary Torres was also determined to excel, earning a silver

medal in the 54kg Combat Sambo category. The prestigious competition, hosted by USA Sambo Inc. and the International Sambo Federation, attracted the best Sambo practitioners from around the world, including Asia. The team’s success was made possible by the unwavering support of the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, whose commitment to the development of

Guam exec: Jiu-jitsu becoming more popular among Filipinos

GEN. TRIAS, Cavite – Rising stars Lisa Sarines and Ryuji Suzuki emerged triumphant at the ICTSI Eagle Ridge Junior PGT Championship, showcasing poise and precision under grueling conditions at the Norman course of the Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club on Wednesday here. Sarines delivered a masterclass in consistency, firing a second straight 74 to cap a two-day total of 148, securing a commanding 13-shot win in the girls’ 11–14 division over her twin sister Mona (80-161). Kendra Garingalao settled for third at 165 after an 84.

“I think I won this tournament because I was consistent. My putting was good, and that helped me win despite struggling off the mound,” said Lisa. “This win means a lot – it’s the first JPGT event this year and it boosts my confidence.”

On the boys’ side, Suzuki overcame double bogeys and searing heat to post a steady 78 for a 152 aggregate, comfortably eight strokes clear of Race Manhit (80-160). Vito Sarines and Jacob Casuga

THE martial arts of jiu-jitsu is gaining ground as one of the most popular sports in the world today.

A personality known for his patronage of the Jiujitsu in Guam will attest to this.

“With the sport growing and getting bigger, jiu-jitsu has turned into a world-renowned sport. Guam is also growing out of the sport’s popularity in the Philippines,” said Steve Shimizu, president of the Marianas Open International and Sports Tourism in Guam.

Shimizu even cited what he described as the growing popularity of this Brazilian combat sport in the Philippines.

“Jiu-jitsu has grown on popularity among Filipinos as well as Guamanians, who love to compete here,” the Guam sports exec said.

Shimizu also issued kind words for Filipino jiu-jitsu athletes, whom he considers one of the toughest in the world.

“Some of the awesome things about the Philippines are its athletes, who are very renowned. I competed alongside them in Japan and the Philip -

tied for third at 163 afer 80 and 84, respectively.

“I feel truly blessed this entire week,” said Suzuki, recalling his highlight moment on No. 9, where he chipped in for birdie. “I was really nervous at the start because the competition was tough and I honestly thought I might lose. But I stayed focused, didn’t give up, and I’m grateful I was able to pull through and win.”

“This win means a lot because it gives me points for the JPGT Finals,” he added. The ICTSI Junior PGT Championship, organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., is a 15-leg nationwide tour featuring seven legs each in the Luzon and VisMin series. The tour culminates in the highly anticipated North vs South Series at The Country Club later this year.

Sanctioned by the World Amateur Golf Ranking, the tournament offers vital ranking points and valuable competitive experience for the country’s most promising young golfers.

pines. I tell you they are tough, which is the reason why we’re here,” Shimizu said.

In a show of love for the sport and admiration of the Filipino jui-jitsu athletes, Shimizu came to town to grace a Marianas Pro Manila tournament in Alabang, which came to a close on Sunday, April 6.

He also lauded the tournament, organized by Asian Sport Jiu-Jitsu Federation (ASJJF), led by its Manila president Alvin Lee, and Edison Kagohara, the ASJJF overall president of Asia.

“Our partners here, Alvin Lee, put up a great event. He (Lee) has some great experiences, and all of us too,” said Shimizu, who expressed optimism that the event will open the door and bridge the gap between the Filipino and Guam jiu-jitsu competitors.

Shimizu is hoping more Filipino athletes will compete in the Marianas Pro Taiwan from April 26 to 27, and Marianas Open International on October 18 in Guam for the grand finale, where a prize pool of $50,000 will be at stake.

Sambo has been instrumental in the Philippines’ growing presence on the global stage. This impressive showing at the 2025 USA Open International Sambo Cup represents a significant milestone for Sambo in the Philippines Pilipinas Sambo president Paolo Tancontian expressed his gratitude to the PSC, POC, and all supporters for their invaluable contributions to this historic achievement.

Zamboanga, Pasay, Quezon win in MPBL

QUEZON Province and Zamboanga Sikat posted convincing victories on Tuesday to move nearer the Manny Pacquiao presents 1xBet-MPBL 2025 Season leaders at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

The Quezon Huskers exploited their board dominance to trounce the Quezon City Galeries Taipans, 79-66, in the opener, while the Zamboanguenos banked on a second-quarter run to subdue Manila Batang Quiapo, 106-89, in the second game of the round-robin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament.

Roi Sumang and Paul Turcu fired five each as Zamboanga bundled 14 points to wrest control from Manila, 49-40, and proceed to match Quezon’s 5-1 record. They trail Nueva Ecija (6-0), San Juan (4-0), Muntilupa (3-0) and Pasig (1-0) and were tied with Abra, Rizal Xentromall and Pangasinan in the chase for playoff spots.

The Pasay Voyagers also gained traction with a coast-to-coast 91-83 conquest of the Sarangani Grippers in the nightcap.

Powered by Laurenz Victoria, Warren Bonifacio, Cyrus Tabi and AJ Coronel, Pasay climbed to 5-2 and pulled down Sarangani to 0-7.

Members of the national sambo team hold the Philippine flag.

Meryll Serrano

Laurenz Victoria delvers for the Pasay Voyagers.

Two young participants battle it out during a competition at the Marianas Pro Manila Jiu-jitsu Championships.

Winners of the 2025 ICTSI Eagle Ridge JPGT Junior Championship are shown here, namely (from left) Mavis Espedido, Zach Guico, Lisa Sarines and Ryuji Suzuki. Manny Marcelo

WHAT’S INSIDE?

SEC to ease power firms fund-raising rules

NSCR PROJECT. Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon leads the inspection of the North South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project, calling for faster completion of the project’s segment from Manila to Bulacan.

Gov’t asked to ban steel induction furnace Cryptocurrencies

Hilton to open two new hotels in QC and Cebu

GLOBAL hospitality company Hilton

said it signed agreements for two new hotels in the Philippines, marking the debut of its Hilton Garden Inn brand in the country and expanding its portfolio to five properties from three.

The Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City and Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan reflect the company’s ambition to expand its focused service presence in Southeast Asia, Hilton said in a statement.

The two new hotels follow recent signings in Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia, as the brand increases its presence in the region amid growing demand for affordable, upscale accommodations.

Hilton said it aims to more than triple its focused service footprint in Southeast Asia in the coming years, increasing the number of Hilton Garden Inn properties and other mid-market branded hotels from 12 to 40.

“Hilton Garden Inn is one of our fastest-growing brands in South East Asia,” said Maria Ariizumi, vice president for development in South East Asia at Hilton.

“The Philippines is a strong focus for Hilton, as we see the massive long term tourism potential for the country,” she said.

The 210-room Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City will feature an allday dining restaurant, meeting spaces, an outdoor pool and a fitness center.

The 151-room Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan will be situated on Mactan Island, near the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. It will offer an all-day dining restaurant and bar, event spaces, a fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.

PH remains a bright spot, seen growing 6% in 2025

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) said Wednesday the Philippine remains among the fastestexpanding economies in Southeast Asia, with a growth rate of at least 6 percent for 2025 and 2026.

“In the Philippines, growth is forecast to edge higher to 6 percent in 2025 and 6.1 percent in 2026, as easing inflation, rising employment, and steady remittances will boost household spending,” the Manila-based

lender said in its April edition of the Asian Development Outlook (ADO).

The ADB’s growth forecasts for the Philippines fall within the Development Budget and Coordination Committee’s (DBCC) 6-percent to 8-percent target range for 2025 to 2028.

It said the implementation of public infrastructure projects is expected to support growth.

The growth forecasts were finalized before the US administration’s April 2 announcement of new tariffs, so the baseline projections only reflect tariffs previously in place, the ADB said.

It said, however, the ADO April 2025 includes an analysis of how higher tariffs may affect growth in Asia and the Pacific.

“The Philippines remains a bright spot in the Southeast Asian region, with robust private consumption and sustained investments, particularly

on infrastructure, continuing to fuel growth,” said ADB country director for the Philippines Pavit Ramachandran.

The ADB said increased uncertainty in global trade and investment policies following the announcement of new US tariffs may impact market sentiment and investment decisions.

Geopolitical tensions and weather shocks could also pose challenges, the report said.

The Philippine economy is forecast to outpace Indonesia (5 percent this year, 5.1 percent next year), Malaysia (4.9 percent and 4.8 percent), and Thailand (2.8 percent and 2.9 percent) in terms of economic growth for this year and the next.

Vietnam’s economy is projected to grow at a faster pace than the Philippines, with forecasts of 6.6 percent this year and 6.0 percent next year.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

BELLE Corp. is hoping that Macaubased Melco Resorts & Entertainment will operate its planned hotel and casino project in Clark Freeport, Pampanga, a top executive said. Informed sources said Melco may not be willing to invest in Belle’s second integrated resort project after reporting plans to sell its stake in City of Dreams Manila, but it could still be Belle’s man-

agement partner for the project.

“We are hoping that they [Melco] will still manage the casino,” the Belle official said, while requesting not to be named.

Melco announced in February it was evaluating “potential strategic alternatives” in relation to its stake in CoD Manila.

Sources said Melco plans to sell its stake in CoD Manila as it explores plans to invest in Thailand, which

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) is calling on the public to support the Philippines in maintaining its status as one of Asia’s top destinations at the 2025 World Travel Awards.

The country is defending its titles, with nominations for Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, Asia’s Leading Island Destination and Asia’s Leading Asia’s Leading Tourist Board.

“The sustained and dedicated efforts of the Department of Tourism have once again borne fruit with these nominations from the prestigious World Travel Awards,” said DOT Secretary Christina Frasco.

Several of the Philippines’ premier

FIRE BRIGADE CHAMPION. Okada Manila is named overall champion in the hotel category at the 11-in-1 National Fire Brigade Competition 2025, organized by the Safety Organization of the Philippines Inc. (SOPI)— reinforcing its position as a leader in safety and emergency preparedness.

Having bested 47 other integrated resorts and hotel chains across the country, Okada Manila’s emergency response team (ERT) secured the championship for the third consecutive year, having also earned the title in 2023 and 2024. The event was held on March 8, 2025, at ARCA South, Western Bicutan, Taguig City.

is in the process of legislating a bill that would allow casinos to be set up within tourism complexes.

Belle, through its unit Premium Leisure Corp., applied for a casino license in Clark in 2024. However, state-owned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) has yet to approve the license.

Belle said earlier it remained bullish on the Philippine gaming sector despite industry headwinds.

tourist spots also earned nominations in various categories: Boracay as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, Intramuros as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, and Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination. Voting for the 32nd edition of the World Travel Awards opened on April 1, 2025 and will run until Aug. 1, 2025. Filipinos are encouraged to cast their votes online for the Philippines in its respective categories.

“Winning these awards will not only add prestige to our efforts but also create more opportunities for our fellow Filipinos whose livelihoods depend on tourism. It will also allow us to surpass the achievements we’ve made since we took office,” Frasco said. 6.0% 6.1% 3.0% ADB growth forecast for 2025 ADB growth forecast for 2026 Inflation forecast for 2025

Peso holds value despite stock market volatilities

THE Philippine peso has remained resilient against market volatility triggered by the United States’ new tariff policy.

The peso closed at 57.31 against the US dollar on Tuesday, up nearly 1 percent from the start of trading in January 2025. It also strengthened from Monday’s close of 57.43.

Fitch Ratings noted that most major economies’ currencies have appreciated against the dollar since the beginning of 2025, despite the significant increase in US tariffs.

The ratings agency said developed market currencies, excluding the Australian dollar, had appreciated by an average of 4.5 percent since the end of 2024. It said market participants appeared more concerned about the negative impact of tariff hikes on US growth than the prospect of a narrower trade deficit, which had a more pronounced effect on the dollar’s value.

Emerging market currencies showed more varied movements, with substantial gains for the Russian rouble (around 30 percent), the Brazilian real, and the Polish zloty, but weakening for the Turkish lira and the Indonesian rupiah.

Since January 2023, the yen has depreciated by 12 percent against the dollar, while the euro and the Swiss franc have strengthened by 2.7 percent and 7 percent, respectively.

Among emerging markets, the number of Turkish lira per dollar has roughly doubled, while the Korean won and rupiah have depreciated by 15 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively.

Nominal effective exchange rates (NEER), which represent averages of bilateral rates weighted by countries’ trade patterns, show that the U.S. dollar NEER remains near a multi-decade high. This is despite recent dollar weakness, following a steady appreciation between 2015 and 2024, Fitch said. Switzerland’s NEER is close to an all-time high, while the euro NEER has slightly decreased from its record high in the summer of 2024.

TONDO HOUSING. Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, along with key housing officials, inspects the construction at the Port Town Housing Project under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) program in Barangay 20, Parola, Tondo, Manila.

Combined capital of 50 Asian companies climb 14% to $8.3t

THE combined market capitalization

of the top 50 companies in the AsiaPacific region surged to $8.3 trillion as of March 31, 2025, reflecting a 14-percent year-on-year increase, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Technology firms led the charge, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Tencent Holdings dominating the rankings, while traditional sectors like automotive and energy faced valuation headwinds, it said.

The technology sector topped the list with 15 companies contributing a total market value of $3.1 trillion.

Geographically, China led the rankings with 21 companies collectively valued at $3.9 trillion, followed by Japan with 13 companies at $1.5 trillion, and India with six companies accounting for $0.8 trillion.

“In the first quarter of 2025, APAC equities delivered mixed results, driven by contrasting macroeconomic conditions. China led gains amid

policy support and tech resurgence, with Xiaomi (+246 percent), BYD (+98 percent), and Alibaba (+71 percent) outperforming. India sustained momentum on strong fundamentals, while Japan and South Korea lagged due to currency volatility and sector headwinds, with Toyota Motor (-31 percent) and Samsung Electronics (-34 percent) declining. Overall, the growth was concentrated in China and India, offset by softness in North Asia’s developed markets,” said Mur

thy Grandhi, company profiles ana

lyst at GlobalData.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) maintained its top position with a $746.3 billion market cap, despite a 12 percent quarteron -quarter dip. The decline, though notable, reflects the sector’s frothy valuations and temporary demand normalization after a strong fourth quarter of 2024 driven by global AI and high-performance computing chip demand.

Higher tariff lifted ATI’s 2024 net income to P4.5b

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ASIAN Terminals Inc. (ATI) said Wednesday its net income rose 2 percent in 2024 on higher container volumes and tariff increase.

The port operator said net income amounted to P4.52 billion last year, up from P4.43 billion in 2023. It said revenues went up 7 percent to P16.54 billion last year from P15.45 billion in 2023.

“Revenues from South Harbor [SH] international containerized cargo increased from last year by 13.7

PAL, Mastercard team up to offer flight discounts

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said it teamed up with Mastercard to offer exclusive discounts on domestic and international flights.

Travelers with Philippines-issued Mastercard credit, debit and prepaid cards may purchase PAL tickets with 10-percent discount on international flights and 20-percent discount on domestic flights (base fares only). Mastercard cardholders can make multiple bookings using the promo code. The offer is valid until April 13 on direct PAL website and mobile app bookings only. Terms, conditions and blackout dates apply.

PAL said to avail of the offer, travelers should input the bank’s identification number (BIN) – first 6 digits of the card only in the promo code space bar.

Travel period for international flights starts as early as April 1 until Nov. 30, while travel period for domestic flights starts on June 1 until Nov. 30. Darwin G. Amojelar

percent on account of higher container volumes and the 10 percent tariff increase effective Aug. 6, 2024,” ATI said.

“However, revenues from Batangas Container Terminal [BCT] and ATI Batangas were lower than last year by 19.1 percent and 10 percent, respectively, on account of lower international container volumes and lower international Roro volumes, respectively, which were partly offset by a higher number of passengers and domestic Roro volume,” it said. Port authorities’ share in revenues

in 2024 of P2.96 billion increased 11.2 percent from P2.66 billion in 2023 as a result of higher revenues subject to port authorities’ share.

Cost and expenses in 2024 amounted to P7.07 billion, or 6.7 percent higher than P6.628 billion in 2023.

The company’s labor costs in 2024 of P1.91 billion increased 8.8 percent from P1.75 billion in 2023 due to salary rate increases and additional headcount.

ATI said it invested P2.7 billion in capital expenditures in 2024, higher than P2.2 billion in 2023.

IT MAY be the biggest development project to rise in the Philippines. The New Clark City, the flagship project of state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), is drawing the interest of both local and foreign investors—eager to become the pioneer settlers of the smart city development.

The BCDA just last week reiterated its commitment to advancing the Philippines’ infrastructure development, following significant progress in the New Clark City project.

The New Clark City is at the center of major infrastructure projects and its fruition is slowly coming out of the shell.

As I noted in this column before, foreign investors are scouring idle lands covered by the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, while the government is about to launch the construction of the Subic-Clark-ManilaBatangas (SCMB) railway project that could cost over $7 billion.

BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang raved about the results of talks during the high-level Philippines-Japan meeting on March 24, 2025.

“With Japan’s support, we are making great progress in transforming New Clark City into a smart, sustainable, and thriving economic hub,” Bingcang said.

The BCDA chief reported that the agency has forged a partnership with Science Park of the Philippines Inc. (SPPI) to develop a 100-hectare

industrial park, along with Japanese companies, to attract high-value manufacturing and technology investments.

BCDA is also piloting an AI-driven smart mobility system within New Clark City in partnership with Zenmov and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

It’s the first of its kind in the Philippines. The mobility system features low-carbon transport solutions and autonomous public utility vehicles (PUVs).

But foremost in the creation of the new city is the implementation of the New Clark City master plan.

The BCDA and the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN), a Japanese government-private infrastructure investment fund, are trying to accelerate the execution of the plan.

The partnership is preparing a business case for estate management services, ensuring the efficient and sustainable administration of the city as it welcomes more businesses.

The Japanese has competition. Singapore offered to develop New Clark City after last year’s visit of Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to the Philippines.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Bingcang during Mr. Wong’s visit presented the government’s vision of transforming New Clark City into an industrial hub where Singaporean

SEC to ease rules on power firms’ capital raising plan

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange

Commission

(SEC) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) plan to streamline the process for energy companies raising funds through the capital market.

The SEC said in a statement Wednesday the two regulators launched the “Securing and Expanding Capital for PowerGen Operators and Wholesale Electricity and Retail Services (SEC POWERS)” program. This aims to simplify how power generation and distribution companies can raise capital in the market.

The move aligns with a requirement in the Electric Power Industry Reform Act for power generation and distribution firms to offer at least 15 percent of their shares to the public.

“Energy projects are very capital intensive. This is where the capital market can come in. We aim to introduce the limitless potential of tapping the capital market as a financing solution to meet the growing demand of the energy sector,” SEC chairman Emilio Aquino said.

“With the issuance of SEC POWERS, we aspire to usher in more substantial investments in power projects by streamlining the securities registration process,” he said.

Under the simplified process, the SEC committed to completing the review of securities registration statements for energy firms within 45 days.

The New Clark City is at the center of major infrastructure projects ...

businesses can contribute.

The BCDA teamed up with Surbana Jurong of Singapore in drawing up New Clark City’s Comprehensive Master Development Plan, leveraging on Singapore’s expertise in smart city development.

More investments are coming to the new city. Federal Express Corp., one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, is expanding its operations in the Clark gateway.

FedEx has signed an agreement with Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp. (LIPAD), operator and manager of Clark Airport, to build a new facility to support the growing demand for e-commerce, freight and cold-chain shipments across the Asia-Pacific region.

The new FedEx facility, once completed, will more than double the size of its current capacity.

BB International Leisure and Resort Development Corp. (BBILRDC) of Taiwan has expressed an interest to invest another P15 billion for a new eco-conscious integrated township in Clark Freeport.

The investment will fund the development of the 101-hectare Midori Highlands—an

The streamlined process is designed to help meet the country’s energy investment needs, which the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050 estimates at P67 trillion.

ERC chairman and chief executive Monalisa Dimalanta cited the importance of collaboration between the SEC and ERC.

“This is exactly why the synergy between the ERC and SEC matters. By working together we’re finding solutions that not only meet regulatory requirements but also provide our regulated entities the support they need to grow,” Dimalanta said.

“When we combine our expertise and resources, we’re not just making processes more efficient for investors and industry players—we are also strengthening the foundation for a stronger, more competitive energy sector,” she said.

Several energy firms, particularly those in renewable energy, have listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange. These include NexGen Energy Corp., Alternergy Holdings Corp., Citicore Renewable Energy Corp., Repower Energy Development Corp. and Raslag Corp.

innovative project that blends green living with modern urban amenities, including high-rise condominiums and a logistics center.

BBILRDC president Wun Xu Wu earlier stressed the project’s sustainable features, such as rainwater collection, solar power generation and energy-efficient transportation.

A state housing development will also accommodate future workers in Clark Freeport. Clark Development Corp. (CDC), the administrator of Clark Freeport, and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development are planning build 50,000 housing units in Clark.

“Clark is one of the areas where expansion of development outside the National Capital Region is very ideal. Apart from its proximity to Metro Manila, it already has modern infrastructures that are necessary in a sustainable township,” says housing czar Jose Rizalino Acuzar

The Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas railway project, meanwhile, seeks to streamline logistics, reduce transportation costs and promote better economic integration. Stretching 250 kilometers, it will link Subic and Batangas ports and pass through Metro Manila. The New Clark City is an emerging economic hub that seeks to correct failed urban planning policies in the past. It is the most viable option to Metro Manila.

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

LARGEST VESSEL. Basra Gateway Terminal (BGT), International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s (ICTSI) operation at the Port of Umm Qasr, Iraq, sets a new industry benchmark with the successful handling of the HMM Daon, the largest container vessel to dock at the port. The HMM Daon has a capacity of 16,010 TEUs, a beam of 51 meters, a length overall of 365.16 meters, and a gross tonnage of 152,003. The vessel is part of the Premiere Alliance consortium by HMM, Yang Ming, and Ocean Network Express, which facilitates imports from China and the Far East.

DESSERT MUSEUM. The Dessert Museum unveils its latest interactive room in Pasay City on April 8, 2025 inspired by the famous Jollibee dessert, Peach Mango Pie. The newest attraction is a collaboration which features a giant fruity room with visuals and elements of the classic dessert and interactive games for its visitors. A dessert station completes the sweet experience. Norman Cruz

BUSINESS

Franchise, business seminars to offer growth insights

FRANCHISE Asia Philippines, the Philippine Franchise Association’s (PFA) flagship event, is expanding its seminar lineup for the upcoming expo on April 25 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center in Manila.

Entrepreneurs, business owners and franchise professionals seeking a competitive edge can attend the Franchise & Business Seminars held during the expo.

These seminars will address key operational challenges and opportunities, offering expert insights into areas such as branding, entrepreneurship, finance, franchising, human resources, international ex-

DA opens animal vaccine laboratory

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it inaugurated a state-of-the-art vaccine unit at the Center for Transboundary Animal Diseases (CenTrAD) beside the Central Luzon State University (CLSU) on April 8, 2025.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said the facility is dedicated to developing vaccines against major livestock threats such as African Swine Fever (ASF), Foot-andMouth Disease (FMD) and Avian Influenza (AI) that pose serious risks to the country’s livestock and poultry industries and threaten food security.

The DA said it earmarked P151 million for a three-year vaccine development program, which includes acquiring the government’s first biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory.

The advanced lab enables research on dangerous microbes that can cause severe or lethal diseases through inhalation.

Tiu Laurel said the goal is to produce vaccine prototypes by 2028 or earlier, noting that while vaccines for ASF, AI and FMD exist abroad, using indigenous strains is often more effective in preventing outbreaks.

He said the new vaccine unit is vital to curbing economic losses caused by diseases and protecting livestock from future threats.

The Philippine swine sector has suffered billions in losses since ASF was first detected in 2019.

pansion, marketing, site selection, supply chai, and sustainability.

“This event gathers experts and franchise practitioners from here and abroad to share global best practices and discuss what’s in store for franchising in the country and across the globe,” said PFA president Joseph Tanbuntiong.

“It is also an excellent venue to meet and network with top industry names. So, if you want to stay ahead in franchising, this is the must-attend event of the year,” said Tanbuntiong.

Attendees will gain practical tips, best practices, and actionable

solutions to enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and inform business decisions. Each seminar is designed to provide valuable takeaways applicable to participants’ businesses.

“Every topic is thoughtfully curated to address the most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in the franchising industry. All the speakers are industry trailblazers and thought leaders, chosen for their expertise and insights that will empower attendees to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success,” said Franchise Asia Philippines 2025 overall chair Steve Benitez.

Group asks gov’t to ban induction furnace for steel

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI) and industry experts asked the government to ban induction furnace (IF) steelmaking in the country and strengthen enforcement against the proliferation of substandard steel products that put lives and infrastructure at risk—especially in the event of a major natural disaster.

They made the statement following the collapse of a bridge in Isabela province.

PISI president Ronald Magsajo underscored the danger posed by noncompliant steel in residential and commercial structures, saying that many manufacturers continue to violate Philippine National Standards (PNS 49 for rebars and PNS 657 for angle bars).

“Our recent 2024–2025 market test buys show alarming rates of nonconformance. Substandard steel is still rampant in the market and remains a silent threat to public safety,” Magsajo said Wednesday at the weekly Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum.

Joining the call for urgent action was Department of Science and Technology – Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) consultant Roberto Cola, who warned about the growing number of steel plants using outdated induction furnace (IF) technology.

“Induction furnaces don’t remove harmful elements in steel, resulting in inconsistent, unsafe products. Worse,

these plants release hazardous emissions without proper filtration, endangering workers and surrounding communities,” he said.

Cola said that although China banned such furnaces in 2017, many of the obsolete facilities have since been exported to Southeast Asia—including the Philippines, where IF capacity surged from less than 150,000 metric tons (MT) in 2017 to around 3 million MT today.

“These facilities are now the main source of substandard rebars and angle bars in the country,” he said, noting that 20 IF out of 42 steelmaking facilities in the country were monitored to market substandard steel products.

The forum also highlighted the critical link between structural integrity and disaster preparedness, with Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno warning that the “Big One”—a magnitude 7.2 earthquake from the West Valley Fault that occurs roughly every 400 years—could kill up to 50,000 people and injure more than 160,000 based on recent studies.

Agriculture agencies push double dry system to boost rice harvest

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) launched an initiative to help farmers in Marinduque province maximize rice crop output during the period between the dry and wet seasons.

The program provides certified inbred seeds, a key input for the recently adopted double dry cropping system, which aims to boost farm productivity and farmers’ incomes by allowing an extra planting season.

The DA’s Philippine Rice Re -

search Institute (PhilRice) and the NIA are collaborating with other DA programs for the initiative. The Seed Program, backed by the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), allocated 5,546 bags of certified inbred seeds for Marinduque farmers, covering 2,558 hectares of land under the NIA’s Double Dry Cropping Scheme.

Initial deliveries were made to farmers in Mogpog and Santa Cruz, who now have access to NSIC Rc 160, a high-yielding variety resistant

to pests like yellow stem borers. The variety matures in 107 days and has a potential yield of up to 5.6 tons per hectare, equivalent to 112 50-kilo bags of palay (unmilled rice).

PhilRice data showed that Marinduque farmers harvested 16,526 metric tons of palay from 5,085 hectares last year, yielding 3.25 metric tons per hectare, or 65 50-kilograms sacks of palay.

Rhemilyn Relado-Sevilla, director of PhilRice in Los Baños, said the early seed delivery helps mitigate risks

posed by extreme weather. “With the early delivery of seeds, farmers can now complete two cropping cycles before the typhoon season, reducing the risk of palay losses due to extreme weather,” she said.

The initiative, a key outcome of the MaSaGana Rice Industry Development Plan (MRIDP), promotes resilience and stability amidst climate change by introducing the double dry cropping system and adjusting planting calendars to minimize disruptions from adverse weather.

GCNP meets with UN official, discusses climate, other

challenges

OFFICIALS of the Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP) said they recently met with Arnaud Peral, the newly-appointed United Nations Resident Coordinator to the Philippines, to discuss how the UN can support GCNP’s initiatives and the role the private sector can play in light of global challenges and shifting political landscapes impacting global sustainable development goals.

Swine population remains at just 60 percent of its pre-outbreak level of nearly 13 million.

Othel V. Campos

First Gen to power Nippon Sanso facility with 100% renewable energy

NIPPON Sanso Ingasco Group (NSIG), a subsidiary of Japanese multinational industrial gas manufacturer Nippon Sanso Holdings Group, tapped First Gen Corp. to power NSIG’s manufacturing facility in Mindanao with 100-percent renewable energy (RE).

The partnership underscores both companies’ shared commitment to sustainability and sets new precedent for energy efficiency within the industrial gas sector. Under the agreement signed on April 2, First Gen will supply 2.6 megawatts (MW) of electricity from the Mindanao Geothermal Power Plant in North Cotabato, owned and operated by its subsidiary Energy Development Corp. (EDC), to NSIG’s gas manufacturing facility within the Phividec Industrial Estate in

Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.

“As part of the Nippon Sanso Holdings Group’s global commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, we are continuously working to minimize our environmental impact. Partnering with First Gen to power our operations in Tagoloan with 100-percent RE marks a significant milestone in our sustainability journey. This initiative aligns with our commitment to adopt cleaner energy sources for our production facilities and promote sustainable solutions across our global operations. We look forward to building on our partnership with First Gen as we accelerate our decarbonisation efforts in the Philippines,” said NSIG president Takenori Kawachino.

“The role of the private sector in advancing sustainable development is more crucial than ever. The UN welcomes opportunities to collaborate with GCNP and its members to drive meaningful impact in the Philippines, particularly by creating an enabling environment for investments and job acceleration,” Peral said.

GCNP presented an overview of its current programs and strategic priorities, with a particular focus on its commitment to the UN Global Compact’s Forward Faster initiative. The global call to action mobilizes businesses to fast-track progress across five key areas: gender equality, climate action, living wage, water resilience, and finance for the SDGs. Through participation in the UN Global Compact, GCNP participants commit to aligning their strategies and operations with the Ten Principles on human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption—and to taking action in support of the SDGs.

SGV ACADEMY. Officials of SGV & Co. sign a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with De La Salle Lipa management on the school’s participation in the SGV Academy program on March 28, 2025 at the Bayanihan Room of the Executive Lounge at the SGV II Building in Makati City.

Rice farmers in Marinduque are primed for an extra planting season with the delivery of certified inbred seeds, a vital input to the recently adopted double dry cropping system that promises higher

Nippon Sanso Ingasco Group (NSIG) head of sales and business development Rodette Astoriano (left) and First Gen Corp. senior vice president and chief revenue officer Vincent Martin Villegas shake hands after signing an agreement for supply of renewable energy from First Gen to NSIG’s facilities within the Phividec Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental province.

AXA PH boosts protection for Grab, MOVE IT riders

AXA Philippines said it teamed up with PhilPacific Insurance Brokers & Managers Inc. (Philinsure), Grab and MOVE IT to provide crucial protection to gig workers, a sector often excluded from traditional financial safeguards.

Under the partnership, thousands of Grab and MOVE IT drivers and riders will receive up to P1 million in insurance coverage under the companies’ incentive-based program. This aims to ensure these workers can operate with greater confidence and peace of mind, knowing they have financial protection.

“Ensuring inclusive protection has always been a core part of our mission. At AXA, we believe that every worker, regardless of employment status, deserves financial security and support,”

Manila to host AAPA aviation safety seminar

THE Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), in partnership with the Philippine Airlines, said the Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar will be held at the Hilton Manila on Sept. 10 to 11, 2025.

The Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar (APASS), AAPA’s premier safety forum for the region’s airline community, will bring together safety professionals from across the Asia Pacific, including AAPA member airlines, regulators, manufacturers, maintenance and repair organizations (MRO) and solution providers.

The theme for APASS 2025, “Safety Without Borders: Global Partnerships, Local Impact” will focus on operational resilience, human factors, safety leadership and risks arising from technology as well as evolving airspace threats, including spoofing, fatigue management and data integration.

“As aviation safety challenges grow in complexity, our collective commitment to collaboration, data sharing and cross-disciplinary learning becomes even more critical,” said Subhas Menon, director general of AAPA.

“APASS 2025 will offer a unique opportunity for the Asia Pacific safety community to address high-priority safety concerns and strengthen alignment across safety domains. We are proud to partner with Philippine Airlines to host this important event in Manila,” Menon said.

AAPA invites all aviation safety stakeholders in the Asia Pacific and beyond to participate in the seminar to work together towards a safer, more secure and sustainable aviation future.

said AXA Philippines president and chief executive Ayman Kandil.

“Gig workers demonstrate the same dedication, hard work, and competence as traditional employees, and it’s time they have access to the protection they deserve,” Kandil said. Kandil said the partnership with Grab, MOVE IT and Philinsure is a concrete step to close the protection gap for gig workers in the Philippines, especially drivers and riders who face daily risks on the road.

Philinsure, a key partner in the initiative, said it shares the same vision of financial security for all, combining its microinsurance expertise with AXA’s insurance solutions.

The gig economy in the Philippines

is rapidly expanding, with freelancers, ride-hailing drivers and delivery riders making significant contributions to the workforce. Unlike traditional employees, many gig workers lack job security, health benefits and insurance coverage, leaving them vulnerable to financial risks during medical emergencies or accidents.

Despite a 208-percent increase in freelance earnings from 2019 to 2020, according to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, the lack of financial protection remains a major challenge. Recognizing this gap, AXA Philippines, a major life insurer in the country, is aiming to empower gig workers with accessible, relevant and sustainable protection solutions.

Cryptocurrencies likely to climb under US policy

Aleading cryptocurrency trader in the Philippines expects the value of digital assets to rise under the new tariff regime instigated by US President Donald Trump.

Crypto Traders (IMPACT), said he expects the value of Bitcoin to average $75,000 over the next two years, with a wide range of $50,000 to $150,000.

THE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said it is empowering young Filipinos with secure and valid identification through the Digital National ID.

The Digital National ID is the digital version of the National ID and can be accessed via the eGovPH app.

“The introduction of the Digital National ID is a game-changer as Filipinos can now easily and readily access their National ID at their fingertips. This is especially beneficial for the youth who often have difficulties obtaining their first government-issued ID to unlock employment opportunities and other services,” said PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis Mapa.

“Today, we see young Filipinos reap-

Security Bank launches program to strengthen support for MSMEs

SECURITY Bank Corp. said Wednesday it is boosting its support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the launch of its Business Elite Program. The specialized banking service aims to provide tailored financial solutions, operational support, and exclusive benefits to growing businesses, the bank said in a statement.

It addresses key challenges faced by MSMEs such as access to financing, cash flow management and administrative burdens, Security Bank said.

It said that by offering preferential financing rates, waived service fees, data-driven insights and dedicated relationship management, Security Bank aims to equip business owners with the resources they need to scale and compete more effectively.

“We developed the Business Elite

Program with a clear focus on the needs of our high-value MSME clients,” said John David Yap, senior vice president and head of the business banking segment at Security Bank.

“MSMEs are a critical driver of the Philippine economy, and we want to provide them with the right mix of financial and operational tools to support their growth,” said Yap. Security Bank said to be eligible for the program, MSMEs should maintain a P2-million monthly average daily balance.

Lex Cimagala, first vice president and customer value proposition head at Security Bank said building a bestin-class proposition for MSMEs requires a deep understanding of their unique challenges, a commitment to simplicity and value, and the agility to evolve with their needs.

ing the benefit of being registered to the National ID System. By equipping the youth with the Digital National ID, we are also empowering the country’s key agents of nation-building in digital transformation,” he said.

Brian Catiis, a student from Malabon City, was able to open a mobile wallet account and claim financial assistance for his studies using the Digital National ID.

“I was able to use my Digital National ID to verify my GCash account and to claim financial assistance from the government for us students,” he said.

Catiis said he plans to use the Digital National ID in future transactions.

“It can really be used because it’s a valid ID for transactions, like apply-

ing for a job,” he said.

Having the Digital National ID also allowed Pamela Elipian, a student in Bohol province, to claim money at a remittance center.

Elipian said her Digital National ID was accepted as valid identification during her transaction at the remittance center.

“I was able to use my Digital National ID to get money [at the remittance center]. I was very happy when they accepted my Digital National ID,” she said.

Assistant Secretary Rosalinda P. Bautista, deputy national statistician of the PhilSys Registry Office (PRO), encouraged the public to download their Digital National ID.

“From a bear case perspective, Bitcoin may settle at around $75,000 apiece, a retest of the previous resistance. If it falls behind this resistance, it may reach $50,000 from a high of $109,000 in November-December 2024. As we speak right now, we’re at $78,000. I’m seeing strong support for $75,000 to $74,000. If it collapses, we’ll be within that neighborhood that I mentioned earlier. And the other cryptos are going to follow,” Abello said in an interview.

“Now our bull case is about $150,000 for Bitcoin within the next two years. If the recession narrative happens, it’s a pretty bullish case for Bitcoin, basically because after every recession, people buy on a discount. Tech stocks and crypto are top picks for institutions in our own research,” he said.

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency created using encryption algorithms like blockchain. Abello, a professional trader, cryptocurrency educator, licensed financial advisor and registered financial planner, described blockchain and AI as the technologies of the future.

IN BRIEF

AXA Philippines, one of the largest and fastest growing life insurance companies in the country, is stepping in to empower gig economy workers with accessible, relevant and sustainable protection solutions. Signing the protection agreement are (from left) Gio Tingson, Grab

manager; EJ Dela Vega, Grab Philippines director for mobility; Sally O’Hara, AXA Southeast Asia and Korea chief executive; Ayman Kandil, AXA Philippines chief executive;

Global Miranda Miner Group CEO Arlone Abello

Victor Lim elected FFCCCII president

By Michael Wong Ho

VICTOR Lim, an industrialist and philanthropist, was elected as the new president of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) following a three-day biennial national convention.

The election was supervised by the SGV Group and involved 800 delegates from 170 Filipino Chinese business chambers and organizations.

Lim succeeds Dr. Cecilio Pedro, who led FFCCCII from 2023 to 2025, focusing on post-pandemic recovery and digitalization efforts.

Lim brings over 40 years of experience in manufacturing, trade and education advocacy.

He is the president and CEO of VECO Paper Corp. and Everwealth Traders and Development Corp.

Lim was also the

of FFCCCII and a leader in several industry associations, including the Philippine Stationeries Association and the Philippine Paper Industry Council.

A strong advocate for education, he is the vice president of the St. Stephen’s High School board of trustees and has served as the past president of the school’s Alumni Association.

He is also a leader in the community, having been involved in organizations like the Grand Family Association and the Philippine Sejo Lim Family Association.

Groups renew tie-up to offer medical discounts to teachers

By Julie Ann Lope

THE Philippine Chinese Charitable Association, Inc. (PCCAI), under the leadership of chairman Lu Zu Ying and Chiang Kai Shek College (CKSC) led by president Dr. Judelio Yap, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on April 2, 2025 to provide medical discounts to hardworking Filipino-Chinese teachers of CKSC.

Jeffrey Ng, an industrialist and real estate businessman, was elected the new executive vice-president of FFCCCII.

Dr. Lucio Tan, a renowned business and civic leader, is FFCCCII chairman emeritus.

The other elected officers are vice presidents William Gosiaco, David Chua, Delfin Letran, George Chiu Hock Hay, Michael Tan, William Yap Castro, Tai Lian, Jose (Joey) Go, Antony Chan, Co Kin Hung, Antonio Tan, Antonio Cosing, Edwin Fabro, Reynold Siy and Nelson Guevarra. Willy Limbonhai was elected as treasurer and Parros Poon as auditor.

Dr. Fernando Gan is the corporate secretary and secretary general, and Cheng Chen Jr. is the assistant secretary general.

The transition marks a new chapter for the 71-year-old federation, the Philippines’ largest group of Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs and philanthropists. In addition to promoting business and economic growth, FFCCCII leads various sociocivic and cultural charity initiatives.

It was founded 71 years ago and has a long history of contributing to

nation-building.

The organization supports a wide range of initiatives, including business and economic advocacy, donations of over 6,400 rural public school buildings through its “Operation Barrio Schools” program, and mobilizing relief goods for disasterstricken communities.

FFCCCII also conducts 88 free medical and dental missions each year for urban poor communities and supports volunteer fire brigades across the Philippines.

Yang gets another 20-year McDo PH franchise

GOLDEN Arches Development Corp. (GADC), led by its founder George Yang, signed another 20-year franchise agreement with McDonald’s.

The new license term, valid until 2045, grants GADC the rights to own, develop and operate restaurants as well as engage in sub-franchising of McDonald’s locations in the Philippines. Yang, along with his son, Kenneth Yang, signed the renewal which guarantees the continued growth of McDonald’s in the Philippines. Eighty-year-old George Yang reminisced about the early days of building the business, saying, “In the late 1970s, when I applied for the franchise, McDonald’s asked me how many branches I planned to open. I confidently replied, 10.” Today, GADC operates 792 McDonald’s branches across the country, with plans to reach 800 by the end of 2025, making the Philippines one of McDonald’s fastest-growing markets.

In 1986, Yang introduced localized menu items like Chicken McDo and McSpaghetti, diverging from McDonald’s traditional international offerings.

The products now account for 35 percent of total sales, with recent additions such as an upgraded hamburger and a larger, crispier fried chicken. Looking forward, Yang emphasized plans to expand McDonald’s further into emerging markets outside Metro Manila over the next two decades.

“We’re excited to open more stores and bring McDonald’s closer to more Filipinos,” Yang said. Michael Wong Ho

Filipino-Chinese educators recognized

THE Philippine Chinese Education and Research Center (PCERC) held an awarding ceremony on April 5, 2025 at the Century Seafood Restaurant to honor the recipients of the “2024-2025 Shi Wei Peng Outstanding Filipino Chinese School Principal and Model Chinese Teachers Award.”

More than 500 people attended the event, including Consul Cao Kaiwen and Hou Yan Ping from the Chinese Embassy, descendants of the Shi family including Shi Mei Qing and her two sons, PCERC Chairman Huang Duan Ming, members of the review committee, teachers and leaders from the Filipino-Chinese community.

The ceremony was officiated by teacher Zhou Yue Han from the Philippine Cultural College.

Chairman Huang Duan Ming delivered a speech to laud the incredible contributions of Shi Wei Peng and his son, Shi Jia Jun, in supporting Filipino-Chinese education for over 41 years.

Huang said that despite the absence of government funding, FilipinoChinese education has flourished over the past 125 years, largely due to the unwavering support of dedicated individuals like the Shi family.

Huang introduced the PCERC’s “Filipino Chinese Education Reform 2.0 Project.”

The initiative aims to introduce several new developments, including a fresh Chinese textbook and the creation of a “Chinese Culture and Language Palace” to align with the evolving needs of modern education.

Cao also took the opportunity to express his deep appreciation for the Shi family’s longstanding dedication to Filipino-Chinese education, acknowledging their pivotal role in the sector’s growth.

The awards were presented to the Outstanding Filipino-Chinese School principal Xu Pu Hua and the model teacher representative, Wu En Dian.

Both awardees emphasized how the Shi family’s generosity and commitment have set a remarkable example for the younger generation, inspiring many to join and support the continued growth of FilipinoChinese education. Julie Ann Lope

The MOU establishes a collaboration with the Chinese General Hospital Medical Center, an PCCAI-affiliated institution, offering valuable medication discounts to teachers of Chiang Kai Shek College.

As the largest Filipino-Chinese college in the Philippines, CKSC has long been recognized for its contributions to the FilipinoChinese community’s educational development.

Chairman Lu Zu Ying expressed his sincere appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the teachers and staff at the College. He acknowledged the college’s remarkable achievements across various fields and emphasized how this new initiative would bring meaningful support to teachers in their daily lives.

The signing of the MOU not only marks a significant step in enhancing the welfare of Filipino Chinese educators but also reflects the growing emphasis on the revitalization of Chinese education, which is considered a key element of the community’s “root retention project,” “hope project,” and “people-supported project.”

FFCCCII convention promotes technology, innovation

THE Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) held its 34th Biennial Convention with the theme “Technology, Innovation, Entrepreneurship: Key to Prosperity” from April 3 to 6, 2025. Over 170 local Filipino-Chinese business chambers and associations, as well as government officials, diplomats, and leaders of the Filipino-Chinese community attended the event.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Presidential Special Envoy to China for Trade, Investment, and Tourism Affairs Benito Techico, Senators Mark Villar and JV Ejercito, Pasay Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, BDO Unibank chairperson Teresita Sy Coson and other prominent figures from various sectors were present during the opening ceremony on April 3, 2025.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lauded FFCCCII for its invaluable contributions to the country’s social and economic development over the past 71 years.

He highlighted the organization’s significant role in fostering cultural integrity and encouraged FFCCCII to continue playing a leading role in achieving the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision for the nation’s future.

Vice President Sara Duterte sent a message of congratulations and emphasized the crucial role of technology and innovation in strengthening the country’s economic resilience. She commended FFCCCII for its Rural Schoolroom Building Project and urged the organization to continue its efforts in supporting Filipino entrepreneurs and communities.

FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro delivered welcome remarks and reflected on the organization’s accomplishments over the past two years.

He highlighted key achievements, including initiatives aimed at empowering Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs and contributing to national economic development.

FFCCCII’s 2024 motto, “Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy” (Chinese Blood, Filipino Heart), reflects the federation’s mission of both business growth and helping the community, a tradition they’ve followed for over seventy years. Michael Wong Ho

Golden Arches Development Corp. (GADC) founder George Yang

The Philippine Chinese Education and Research Center (PCERC) recognizes the 2024-2025 outstanding Filipino-Chinese school principals and teachers.

THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, JASPER VALDEZ,

Writer Writer

SHOWBIZ

Earl Agustin’s ‘Tibok’ is so good, it’s got everyone feeling heartfelt

CASSANDRA Ynares, the 17-year-old daughter of Antipolo Mayor Junjun Ynares and Andrea Bautista-Ynares, made her debut at the Brighter Together: ABS-CBN Ball 2025 on Friday, April 4, at Solaire North in Quezon City.

Accompanied by her mother, Andrea, and fashion designer Paul Cabral, this was Cassandra’s first exposure to a high-profile showbiz event.

When asked about a possible career in acting, she shared that she plans to focus on her studies first.

“I want to focus on my studies first. When I graduate, I might,” Cassandra said during an interview at the event. Her mother, Andrea, expressed support for her daughter’s future aspirations but emphasized the importance of completing her education first.

In addition to her education, Cassandra is dedicated to continuing her family’s legacy of public service. She is an advocate for youth development, particularly in the area of children’s mental health, and is committed to fostering an environment that promotes the emotional and intellectual growth of Antipolo’s youth.

By Nickie Wang

EARL Agustin ’s “Tibok” stood out in OPM this year for its streaming success and emotional connection with listeners. What started as a song about heartbreak has been embraced by millions.

The numbers alone are remarkable. The love ditty became the first OPM song to hit over 2 million streams in a single day on Spotify Philippines.

As of writing, Agustin had five songs on the local Top 50 chart: “Tibok,” “Dalangin,” “Aya,” “Dito Sa’kin,” and “Tapos Na.” He also entered Spotify’s global Top 50, a first for any solo Filipino act.

Still, it’s the story behind the song that makes “Tibok” more than a viral hit.

“I wrote it while dealing with unrequited feelings,” he told Manila Standard Entertainment in an interview.

While many now treat it as a love anthem, he has said it came from a place of sadness. The honesty in the lyrics, paired with its gentle melody, resonated with listeners.

On TikTok, users began using the song to confess their own feelings— giving “Tibok” new meaning. The original sadness in the track evolved into something hopeful, even celebratory, shaped by how listeners chose to use it.

“The reception is overwhelming, and it kind of inspired me to make more music. That was the goal to begin with—to write songs that can connect with listeners,” Agustin said.

The song has also found a place in local entertainment. “Tibok” is part of the official soundtrack of Viva One’s sign that Agustin’s music now resonates in wider pop culture. He credits the production team—including Jean-Paul Verona for helping shape the sound, but it’s the emotional core of the song that continues to draw attention.

His next single, “Pag-ibig ng Ikaw at Ako,” will show whether this connection continues. But Agustin’s rise already signals something important: songs grounded in real feeling, even from heartbreak, still have the power to lead the conversation in local music scene.

SINGER and actress Sunshine Cruz has voiced her support for legislation aimed at protecting the welfare and rights of non-traditional Filipino families. As a single mother who raised her children on her own, Cruz understands the challenges faced by families in unique situations and emphasizes the importance of support systems that can offer legal and social assistance.

“I personally feel for the increasing number of broken families who are constantly struggling for survival, and who are not aware of their legal rights and privileges,” Cruz said.

Non-traditional families, which include live-in parents, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), victims of domestic violence, adoptive and blended families, LGBTQ families, the elderly, and solo parents, often face difficulties in accessing

the rights and benefits afforded to more traditional family structures. The acronym ‘LOVABLES’ has been coined to represent these groups for easier recall.

Cruz has found alignment with the advocacy of the Pamilya Ko partylist, which works to address these issues.

The group proposes legislation for equal rights for children born in and out of wedlock, as well as a domestic partnership law granting live-in partners inheritance rights and the ability to make medical decisions in emergencies. Their efforts also focus on providing livelihood, medical, and legal assistance.

“I have the utmost respect for the group, specifically Pamilya Ko first nominee Attorney Anel Diaz who topped the 2003 bar exams. His advocacy, inspired by his own struggles as a young orphan, reflects a commitment to long-term, empowering service,” Cruz added.

Sunshine (center) with ex-husband Cesar Montano (second from right) and their children

Earl’s ‘Tibok’ has achieved 2 million streams in a day on Spotify Philippines, with five songs on the local Top 50 chart and a global Top 50 debut

The OPM singer says that he is inspired to make more music after receiving overwhelming reception

OPM singer Earl Agustin rises to fame with his viral hit ‘Tibok’

‘Ang Mutya ng Section E’ stars Rabin Angeles (left) and Ashtine Olviga lead the music video of ‘Tibok’ the grounded the

Ang Mutya ng Section E , a and Kim Lopez

very special... when you put one and one together, the sum becomes greater than its parts.”

Jollibee will now be the official food partner at Kidzooona party venues, offering children’s favorites like Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and Yumburgers during celebrations.

The partnership also introduces a Jollibee-themed roleplay station inside select Kidzooona locations, allowing kids to pretend they’re part of the Jollibee crew.

“At Jollibee, kids have always been at the heart of everything we do,” said Jollibee head of marketing Dorothy Dee

“More than just great-tasting food, we know that childhood joy is influenced by meaningful experiences—learning, playing, and celebrating with family, even beyond Jollibee stores.”

“This is only the beginning,” she added.

“We can’t wait to bring more joyful, delicious, and memorable experiences for our Jolli kids.”

Kidzooona president and CEO

Tetsuhiro Masaru echoed the sentiment, saying, “I believe this collaboration will help Filipino children, every kid in the Philippines, even more. Our mission is to create countless smiles for children throughout the Philippines.”

Kidzooona, known for its indoor play and roleplaying areas, operates 65 branches nationwide and serves about six million customers annually.

Jollibee joins forces with Kidzooona to bring more joy to kids’ parties

By Jasper Valdez

BIRTHDAY parties at Kidzooona are about to get even more exciting, as the indoor playground officially teams up with Jollibee to become its exclusive fast food partner— bringing kids’ favorite meals to one of their favorite places to play.

The collaboration between the two beloved brands was launched during an event at Kidzooona’s SM North EDSA branch on March 28, kicking off in all participating branches starting April 4. At the heart of the tie-up is a shared mission to bring happiness and memorable experiences to

Filipino children.

“Not all partnerships, not all collaborations are created equal. Some are more special, some are more joyful than the rest,” said Jollibee Group vice president and head of RBU and National Key Accounts Kakam Gabunada

“This makes this partnership very,

Michelle Dee, Rhian Ramos lead bold product relaunch event

By Jasper Valdez

RHIAN Ramos and Michelle Dee

turned heads at the recent launch of Frontrow’s Luxxe White Ultima Collection, where the actresses weren’t just endorsers—they were the evening’s main event.

The two led a launch that played out more like a teleserye climax than a typical brand unveiling.

Held at Frontrow’s Quezon City headquarters, the event featured a symbolic “wake” for the brand’s original Luxxe White Enhanced

Glutathione, complete with a casket, candles, and dramatic lighting.

The previous formulation was “laid to rest” before the new and improved Luxxe White Ultima made its grand entrance onstage.

“I think it just really goes to show that the only thing that can kill Luxxe White is Luxxe White,” Ramos said during the program, drawing laughs from the crowd.

She followed it up by referencing the product’s new formulation, which includes ingredients like oral sunblock, oral moisturizer, ceramide,

The Jollibee partnership aims to enrich that experience by offering not only food but fun, imagination, and shared moments.

For Gabunada, who’s also a dad of three, the partnership is personal.

“My kids… their fourth word was Jollibee. And now that they are around five to ten years old, their favorite place to be is always Kidzooona,” he said.

With this collaboration, kids can now have the best of both worlds—playtime and party food in one place.

and collagen. “It’s hard to name every single one,” she said.

Dee echoed the same confidence in the line. As the face of the Slim variant, she said the supplement fits naturally into her fast-paced lifestyle.

“I juggle like five, six events in a day,” she said. “I am very picky with what goes inside my body. One of the things I love about Luxxe White Slim is it is all natural. And it really works.”

Both stars said they had been using the products long before becoming official endorsers.

Ramos shared that she started taking Luxxe White after being introduced to it by Frontrow co-founder Sam Verzosa

“I saw the difference,” she said. “It’s different because you make yourself look better with the health that you see coming out from within.”

Dee shared that she first used Luxxe White Slim during her initial run in Miss Universe Philippines, when Frontrow served as the event’s presenter.

“I can really vouch for the product,” she said.

The new Luxxe White Ultima Collection includes four reformulated variants— Ultima, Slim, Renew, and Protect.

Despite the upgrades, the products remain at the same price.

“The best part is, it’s still the same price—P2,900,” said Frontrow president RS Francisco

“We did that to help our distributors so they can still access the upgraded Luxxe White Ultima Collection.”

Francisco also emphasized the company’s distinct approach. “We don’t just do things—we do things a certain way. And that’s what we call the Frontrow way.”

Verzosa added that the launch was part of a bigger effort to outdo their previous success.

“We really had to challenge ourselves,” he said. “We always ask, ‘What’s next for Frontrow?’ This was our answer.”

Frontrow executives (from left) RS Francisco, Sam Verzosa, and Richmond Yu Frontrow holds a symbolic wake for Luxxe White Enhanced Glutathione at their Quezon City headquarters

Actresses and celebrity ambassadors Rhian Ramos (left) and Michelle Dee grace the Luxxe White Ultima Collection launch

From left: Kakam Gabunada, Jr., RBU head for Mega Manila and National Key Accounts Group, Dorothy Dee-Ching, Jollibee head of marketing, Tetsuhiro Masaru, Kidzooona president and CEO, and Kristine Nohay, Kidzooona finance director

Jollibee will be serving children’s favorites like Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and Yumburgers in every Kidzoona party

Kidzooona partners with Jollibee as its exclusive fast food partner on birthday parties

THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER

VALDEZ, Writer

ACTRESS Maja Salvador and entrepreneur Rhea

Anicoche-Tan exemplify women empowerment through collaboration, mutual support, and, yes, kindness. Their deep personal and professional bond shows how women can uplift one another while redefining strength and success.

Their collaboration serves as a reminder that women’s empowerment thrives in a community where women support, celebrate, and empower one another.

The actress, whose career has evolved over the years, found new purpose in her role as an endorser for Beautederm, a skincare brand led by Anicoche-Tan. For the past four years, Maja has been more than a brand ambassador; she has embraced self-care, a practice she values even more since becoming a mother.

“It’s like when I became a mom, I started to appreciate beauty products more,” she shared. She credits Beautederm’s CEO, whom she affectionately calls “Aunt Rei,” for guiding her through the beauty industry and encouraging a healthier mindset

Anicoche-Tan has been a guiding presence in Maja’s life, and their relationship extends far beyond business. Maja even personally chose Anicoche-Tan to be one of the principal sponsors at her wedding.

“Family talaga ,” Maja remarked.

“You can feel from her whether a person is genuine or not,” Maja added, speaking to Anicoche-Tan’s authenticity and the trust they share.

Anicoche-Tan expresses deep gratitude for Maja’s constant support. As the CEO of Beautederm, Anicoche-Tan recently celebrated the company’s 15-year journey, recognizing the importance of strong women like Maja in her success.

“I’m so grateful for my babies who are always there,” Anicoche-Tan said, pointing to the value of a supportive network.

For Anicoche-Tan, empowerment is not limited to self-care; it involves cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and contributing to the lives of others.

“True woman’s glow comes from generosity and kindness. Beauty fades, but the way you make others feel never does,” she explained.

(left) has played a

A powerful partnership of women empowerment

Summer-ready with aloe-based sun care line

By Angelica Villanueva

AS TEMPERATURES continue to rise and beach plans begin to take shape, it’s crucial to protect ourselves from the heat. This summer, skincare essentials, particularly sunscreen, are more important than ever. But with countless options flooding the market, how do you choose the right one?

Korean skincare brand Nature Republic believes they have the answer, and it’s powered by aloe vera and made for the country’s tropical weather.

In an interview with Manila

Standard Life during its Sun Safe Pool Club event, Nature Republic Philippines’ division manager Marian Gonzales shared insights into their sun care line, California Aloe Sun Care, which focuses on practicality, comfort, and compatibility with the local climate.

“Our sun stick isn’t exactly new. We just refreshed the packaging. It’s been here for a while, but this time, we’re highlighting how it fits into daily routines—not just for beach trips or outdoor sports,” said Gonzales. Nature Republic’s four-part

Block, Tone-Up Sun Block, Jumbo Sun Block, and the Sun Stick. The Fresh Powdery Sun Stick boasts an SPF 50 and a unique

designed specifically for hot, humid environments like the Philippines. Unlike traditional sunscreens that can feel sticky or heavy, this sun stick glides on smoothly and dries down to powdery finish a matte texture.

developed this—it won’t clog your pores, and it leaves a powderlike finish without sacrificing moisture,” Gonzales added. Its key ingredient is aloe vera—a soothing, hydrating botanical already beloved in the brand’s cult-favorite Aloe Soothing Gel. Gonzales noted the synergy between the two products.

“People often skip sunblock because they think it clogs pores or feels oily. That’s why we

“The sun stick and aloe gel are a perfect match, especially for summer,” she continued.

Also part of the lineup is the Daily Sun Block, a lightweight sunscreen with a pink base that doubles as a makeup primer.

Gonzales explained how customers can layer their protection.

“You can use the Daily before makeup as a primer, then the Sun Stick afterward as a setting finish,” stated Gonzales.

Completing the sun care line are the Tone-Up Sun Block and Jumbo Sun Block—though the jumbo and toneup variants are temporarily out of stock due to high demand in Korea.

When asked about skincare tips for the sweltering season, Gonzales shared three essentials.

“Hydrate with water, always moisturize—even in summer—and never forget your sunscreen, even if you’re just indoors,” she said.

Fresh Powdery

Very Wang Nickie Wang

Anicoche-Tan (left) expresses gratitude to Maja for her support, highlighting the actress’ role in Beautederm’s 15-year success

Actress-dancer Maja Salvador renews her contract as Beautederm’s celebrity ambassador

Rhea Anicoche-Tan (left) and Maja Salvador at the contract signing event

Being a Beautederm endorser, Maja (right) embraces selfcare, especially since becoming a mother

Anicoche-Tan

significant role in guiding Maja’s life beyond her business endeavors