BusinessMirror January 24, 2026

BSP: GEOPOLITICAL RISKS TO REQUIRE RCEP ACTION

By Andrea E. San Juan

MEMBER

economies of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) should “proactively manage” geopolitical risks to safeguard regional integration as heightened tensions in the global arena reduce goods trade and cross-border investments, according to a Discussion Paper published by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The BSP’s study, authored by Hazel C. Parcon-Santos and Jose Adlai M. Tancangco, examined the impact of geopolitical differences on trade and investment among members of what the paper dubbed an “economically cooperative” bloc.

“Using bilateral trade and investment data from 2010 to 2023 and applying an augmented gravity model, the analysis finds that heightened geopolitical tensions reduce goods trade and cross-border investments within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership,” the BSP paper said.

However, the study pointed out that effects are “asymmetric,” further noting that trade is more resilient to geopolitical frictions than investments, particularly portfolio investments, which are more sensitive than direct investments.

The paper said portfolio in-

vestment positions are “more sensitive to geopolitical distance” than direct investments.

BSP said in its paper that the “asymmetric impact” of geopolitical distance on portfolio and direct investments can be attributed to the nature of the two investment types.

“Portfolio investments are often made with the goal of earning short- to medium-term returns through interests, dividends, and capital gains,” the Central Bank’s study noted, adding, these investments are “generally more liquid and can be easily withdrawn or transferred.”

Thus, it pointed out that they are more sensitive to factors that cause market fluctuations, including geopolitical tensions.

“In contrast, direct investments are strategic and long-term commitments. These often involve

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

By Justine Xyrah Garcia

2 FILIPINO SAILORS DIE AS SHIP CAPSIZES IN SOUTH CHINA SEA

equity ownership of 10 percent or more, such as through foreign subsidiaries, joint ventures, or controlling stakes in local firms,” the BSP paper said as it cited the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Thus, direct investments are considered “sticky” in that they are less likely to be reversed quickly in response to short-term fluctuations, said BSP.

“As with trade in goods and services, sustained or escalating geopolitical tensions could magnify the estimated effects on portfolio and direct investments, potentially leading to more pronounced cumulative declines in both investment types,” the study noted.

The research highlighted that even within a “cooperative bloc,” geopolitical tensions can significantly disrupt economic activity.

also improved sharply over the same period, declining to 30 percent, or roughly 7.9 million individuals, from 49 percent, or 12.9 million.

The survey also showed selfrated hunger rising to 16 percent, affecting around 4.2 million families, with most respondents reporting that hunger occurred only once or a few times during the period.

Economists cautioned against reading the sharp, single-quarter decline as evidence of sustained poverty reduction.

The paper pointed out that within the RCEP region, cross-border investment is generally more responsive to geopolitical tensions than trade flows.

“Geopolitical uncertainty tends to increase perceived risks and can significantly alter expected returns on investments. Portfolio investors particularly reallocate their holdings more rapidly in response to shifting geopolitical conditions,” the BSP study noted.

In contrast, it said goods trade is often supported by “deeply embedded” production networks and established supply chains; unlike services trade, which is less exposed to traditional trade barriers and, in many cases, can be delivered digitally.

As such, the study underscored the importance of “proactively managing geopolitical risks to safeguard regional integration and economic stability” among RCEP-member economies.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is the largest trading bloc in the world, accounting for approximately 28 percent of global GDP and 26 percent of global exports of goods and services as of end-2023.

It comprises 15 economies in the Asia-Pacific region: the 10 Asean member states, namely, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, along with Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and the Republic of Korea.

RCEP was established in 2020 and came into force in 2022.

The agreement was finalized on January 21 during the Invest Philippines Business Pavilion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The planned facility will use solar photovoltaic technology and may include battery energy storage systems, subject to further technical studies, site validation and regulatory approvals.

According to the BCDA, the project is intended to provide a stable and cost-efficient power supply for developments within New Clark City.

ACWA Power, a Saudi-listed company based in Riyadh, manages $114.6 billion in assets across 15 countries spanning the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia.

The company has a contracted capacity of 93 gigawatts of power generation and produces 9.3 million cubic meters of water per day through its portfolio of energy and desalination projects.

The Clark project comes as the Philippines steps up efforts to attract investments into its renewable energy sector.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is implementing a 10-year Green Energy Auction (GEA) program aimed at accelerating the addition of renewable capacity to the national grid.

Under the government’s energy roadmap, renewable sources are targeted to account for 35 percent of the country’s power mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin has previously described these targets as firm and non-negotiable.

India retreats from US Treasuries as ‘de-dollarization’ trend deepens

By Ruth Carson & Pratigya Vajpayee Bloomberg

INDIA’S holdings of US Treasuries have fallen to a five-year low as the nation pushes to support its currency and diversify its reserves, joining a broader shift by some major economies out of the world’s biggest bond market.

The country’s holdings of long-term US debt have dropped to $174 billion, down 26% from a 2023 peak, according to US government data made available last week. Treasuries now account for one-third of the nation’s foreignexchange assets, according to the Reserve Bank of India, compared with 40% a year prior.

As gold and other alternatives take a larger share of India’s reserves, the shift mirrors moves by bigger holders like China, reviving questions about US exceptionalism and the role of its debt as a reserve asset. Renewed trade threats from President Donald Trump over Greenland are only deepening the unease, raising the prospect that European governments could also start scaling back.

Much of this shift likely reflects a move away from dollar assets to mitigate sanctions risks, said Win Thin, chief economist at Bank of Nassau 1982 Ltd. with

nearly four decades of market experience. “There is still room for India to lighten up its Treasuries holdings.”

The central bank did not respond to a request for comment on the decline in holdings of US government bonds. India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said in September that the central bank was taking a “very considered decision” to diversify its reserves.

For Mumbai and others, the lessons come after the US froze Russia’s foreign exchange reserves following its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. India’s continued buying of Russian oil since became a point of contention with US President Donald Trump, contributing to high tariffs on the Asian nation.

“The speed at which relations between the US and India deteriorated last year would have taken many by surprise and jolted policymakers to reduce their vulnerabilities,” said Shilan Shah of Capital Economics, the top rupee forecaster last quarter, according to Bloomberg rankings.

Part of the calculus stems from RBI’s efforts to defend India’s battered rupee. It has fallen to record lows on delays to a US-India trade deal after Washington’s 50% tariffs on Indian exports, the steepest in Asia. By selling Treasury holdings, the central bank can then use the

funding to purchase rupees to strengthen its value.

Among investment circles, Trump’s global trade tariffs and the weaponization of the dollar through sanctions has raised questions over whether US Treasuries remain the best bet. The recent raid on Venezuela is only adding to those doubts.

The RBI isn’t a major holder of Treasuries, owning only onequarter of China’s nearly $683 billion holdings and Japan’s $1.2 trillion book, according to data through November. And foreign ownership of US Treasuries remains near an all-time high. Still, the selling adds to the debate over the role of US sovereign bonds in global portfolios.

Buy gold CENTRAL banks worldwide are now having to navigate an increasingly complex policy landscape which places more pressure on reserve allocation. While the dollar, and by extension Treasuries, remain preeminent global reserve assets, the search for alternatives is undoubtedly gaining traction.

The RBI’s selling comes as the central bank hikes its gold-buying streak. China and Brazil cut their long-term Treasury holdings in October to the lowest level on record

since at least 2011, with the former ramping up on bullion.

Just this week, the National Bank of Poland, the world’s biggest reported gold buyer, approved plans to purchase another 150 tons of the precious metal.

There are reasons why India’s selling could taper, such as steadier rupee performance that curbs the need for intervention, or a reduction in tensions if the stalled trade pact is eventually finalized.

“If the trade deal materializes, the need for aggressive currency defense could diminish,” said Krishna Bhimavarapu, Asia Pacific economist at State Street Investment Management.

Yet a growing number of market watchers say that a shift to other assets is coming. A November survey by think tank OMFIF found a vast majority of central banks still hold the greenback, but nearly 60% planned to look for alternatives in the next one to two years.

“The trend is very much embedded at this point,” Michael Brown, a senior research strategist at Pepperstone in London, said of India selling Treasuries. A trade agreement “will simply see holdings stabilize, rather than India go on some sort of mass buying spree.”

Single-digit poverty goal faces tougher test despite Q4 drop

Former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Dante B. Canlas said such results should be interpreted with caution, noting that self-rated poverty and hunger measures are perception-based and can swing sharply within a short period.

“In any case, the decline in self-rated poverty suggests some families are benefiting from antipoverty measures,” Canlas told BusinessMirror, adding that selfrated figures tend to move differently from official poverty statistics based on income thresholds.

Canlas said that despite these limits, bringing poverty down to single-digit levels remains possible if the government is able to address long-standing weaknesses in public spending.

“Yes [it remains attainable], on condition the administration plugs the anomalous budget leakages from corruption,” he added.

Other economists, however, were less convinced that the singledigit poverty target remains within reach under current economic conditions.

Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) economist Ser K. PeñaReyes said weaker growth prospects could make it difficult to sustain poverty reduction over the medium term.

“I think it’s unlikely in light of downgraded growth projections,” Peña-Reyes told BusinessMirror

He pointed to softer economic outlooks from multilateral institutions, which suggest slower momentum ahead.

The Asian Development Bank

(ADB) earlier trimmed its Philippine growth forecast to 5 percent from 5.6 percent for 2025, and to 5.3 percent from 5.7 percent for 2026. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) now expects the economy to expand by 5.1 percent in 2025, down from its earlier 5.4 percent estimate, and by 5.6 percent in 2026, from 5.8 percent previously. The World Bank likewise cut its growth forecast to 5.1 percent from 5.3 percent for 2025, and to 5.3 percent from 5.4 percent for 2026. The Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (Amro) has also lowered its outlook, citing headwinds to investment momentum.

Peña-Reyes said slower growth limits the economy’s ability to generate stable employment and income gains, making it harder for short-term poverty improvements to translate into durable progress.

“It is evident that policy support and/or favorable conditions were felt quickly, but it is also a sign that millions of families remain economically precarious, close enough to poverty that perceptions can swing sharply within a single quarter. In economic terms, it reflects improved cash flow and confidence, not yet durable income security or resilience,” Reyes said. De La Salle University economist Maria Ella Oplas agreed, saying the unusually large, singlequarter drop in self-rated poverty may reflect the short-term impact of government assistance programs rather than structural improvements.

“My guess is these are individ-

With assistance from Masaki Kondo / Bloomberg uals who were given ayuda, or beneficiaries of [Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers] or other related government programs. It’s just short term and maybe not sustainable,” Oplas said.

She added that deeper structural constraints—particularly weak investment confidence—continue to weigh on the administration’s ability to bring poverty down to single-digit levels.

“Across sectors of society, we feel the challenges and the need to expand our sources of income. Corruption is linked to investments which bring employment opportunities. Unless we do something about it, I don’t think investors would be willing to let go of their hard-earned money,” Oplas said.

Separate from perceptionbased surveys, official poverty data show a more gradual pace of improvement.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the country’s poverty rate declined to 15.5 percent in 2023 from 18.1 percent in 2021, with the number of poor Filipinos falling to about 17.54 million from nearly 20 million.

Under the PSA’s methodology, individuals are considered poor if their incomes are not enough to meet basic food and non-food needs.

The poverty threshold for a family of five was pegged at P13,873 per month, while the food threshold—the minimum income needed to meet basic food needs—stood at P9,581 per month, equivalent to about P64 per person per day.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Pharmaceutical industry welcomes FDA efforts to institutionalize green lane

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

THE Philippine Chamber of Pharmaceutical Indus -

try (PCPI) has expressed strong support for the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) efforts to institutionalize a green lane to accelerate regulatory processes for health establishments and products covered under the government’s Strategic Investment Priority Plan, Tatak Pinoy enterprises, and other national development priorities.

PCPI is the biggest association of local pharmaceutical companies, with a membership of about 90 companies, including Unilab Inc., the country’s largest drug manufacturer.

Under the leadership of FDA Director General Paolo S. Teston, the green lane initiative seeks to establish a regulatory pathway that prioritizes applications from qualified local manufacturers, particularly those producing essential and critical medicines.

The framework is designed to provide streamlined review timelines, clearer documentation requirements, and closer coordination between regulators and manufacturers—while fully upholding the FDA’s rigorous standards of safety, quality, and efficacy.

PCPI has actively supported the expansion of the green lane through sustained policy dialogues, public-private partnerships, and regulatory engagements with the FDA, the Department of Health (DOH), the Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta), and other key stakeholders.

“PCPI strongly applauds the FDA’s proactive regulatory reforms, which strike a balance between efficiency and unwavering safety standards,” said Lloyd Balajadia, PCPI president.

“This initiative will generate economic value, create more jobs, and help deliver life-saving medicines to patients faster—drawing from proven regulatory models in countries such as Singapore, India, and China,” Balajadia added.

Role of local manufacturers

BALAJADIA said the Green Lane marks a significant step toward strengthening the Philippine pharmaceutical industry and building a more resilient,

By John Eiron R. Francisco

THE US-based Medical Wellness Association (MWA) on Wednesday declared 2026 as the “Year of Sardine,” citing the growing global burden of metabolic disease and the role of sardines in improving metabolic health. At a press briefing in Pasig City, MWA board member James Michael Lafferty said metabolic disease now affects nearly half of the world’s population and includes conditions such as insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, prediabetes, and Type 2 diabetes. He said research from the MWA and other institutions has increasingly linked metabolic dysfunction to a wide range of chronic illnesses.

self-reliant medicines supply chain.

“It recognizes the critical role of local manufacturers in ensuring the steady availability of affordable, high-quality medicines for Filipino patients,” he added.

PCPI noted that local pharmaceutical companies play a crucial role in maintaining a stable medicine supply, particularly during public health emergencies.

The Covid-19 pandemic, global supply chain disruptions, and ongoing geopolitical tensions have underscored the risks of over-reliance on imported medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

“Local manufacturers are often the first to respond to sudden spikes in demand for essential medicines,” PCPI said, adding that an institutionalized Green Lane will allow them to bring products to market faster, while remaining fully compliant with stringent regulatory requirements.

Strong alignment

THE chamber also highlighted the Green Lane’s strong alignment with national priorities under the Universal Health Care Law and the Philippine Pharmaceutical Industry Roadmap.

By encouraging investment in local manufacturing, the initiative supports broader government goals of reducing import dependence, enhancing national health security, promoting sustainable industrial growth, and generating quality employment.

PCPI expressed appreciation for the current FDA leadership’s understanding of the realities and capabilities of the domestic pharmaceutical sector, noting that local manufacturers possess the technical expertise to produce a wide range of medicines.

The Green Lane initiative, the group said, will further position the Philippines as a competitive pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in the region.

PCPI urged the swift finalization of the green lane guidelines through continued consultations and active stakeholder engagement, building on ongoing collaborative efforts to advance regulatory reforms that benefit both public health and industry development.

Sardine

Saturday, January 24, 2026

BYD sales surges in 2025, scales up local operations

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

BYD Cars Philippines expanded its local operations in 2025 after posting its strongest retail performance since entering the market, driven by rising demand for electric and hybrid vehicles and a rapid buildout of its dealership network.

The Chinese automaker, operating locally under the Ayala-led ACMobility, said it sold 26,122 vehicles last year, marking a 446-percent increase from the previous year and reinforcing its lead in the country’s new energy vehicle (NEV) segment.

“2025 marked a significant milestone in the advancement and broader adoption of New Energy Vehicles in the country,” BYD Cars Philippines managing director Bob Palanca said.

Palanca said the company focused on widening access to electric mobility, noting that

DTI reviews price adjustments for 19 basic goods

MOST basic goods prices remain steady, while price adjustment requests for 19 items are under review, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.

Out of 205 stock-keeping units (SKUs) under the basic necessities and prime commodities list, 186, or roughly 91 percent, have not seen any price changes, including canned sardines, instant noodles, laundry soap, candles, bread, toilet soap and batteries.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the department continues to balance consumer protection with the realities faced by manufacturers.

affordability and availability remain central to BYD’s local strategy.

The BYD Seagull emerged as the brand’s top-selling battery electric vehicle, accounting for a large share of the company’s 4,608 BEV units sold during the year.

The Sealion 6 DM-i led sales for BYD’s plug-in hybrid lineup.

Alongside higher sales volumes, BYD sharply expanded its physical footprint. By the end of 2025, the company had 79 operational dealerships nationwide, more than

triple the 25 outlets it had at the close of 2024.

The broader network is expected to support after-sales service, parts availability, and customer access outside major urban centers.

Following these developments, BYD and ACMobility formally renewed their distribution partnership for passenger vehicles in the Philippines. The alliance began in August 2023.

“These milestones are a clear signal of our unwavering, longterm commitment to the Philippine market,” BYD Philippines country head Adam Hu said.

The local expansion mirrors BYD’s broader global momentum.

The company reported selling 4.6 million new energy vehicles worldwide in January, with overseas shipments exceeding one million units for the first time.

December alone accounted for 420,398 NEV sales.

As part of its next phase in the Philippines, BYD confirmed that Denza, its global premium electric vehicle brand, will enter the local market later this month.

The lineup will include the B5 and B8 sport utility vehicles and the D9 multi-purpose van, with the official unveiling scheduled for February 27.

The rollout comes amid continued growth in the domestic electrified vehicle market.

Data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and the Truck Manufacturers Association showed that year-to-date sales of electrified vehicles reached 28,102 units, accounting for 6.68 percent of total industry sales.

Hybrid electric vehicles remained the largest segment with 22,027 units sold, while battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles posted sales of 4,261 and 1,814 units, respectively.

Plug-in hybrid sales recorded the fastest growth, surging 216 percent month on month.

Overall vehicle sales in the Philippines reached 420,776 units from January to November 2025, industry data showed.

smoking—as a major global public health concern.

Sardines, he said, have emerged as one of the most effective dietary interventions for metabolic health. He cited the fish’s nutritional profile, such as high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, Calcium, and protein, which has prompted some leading metabolic health physicians to promote short-term sardine-based fasting regimens aimed at improving metabolic function.

“A sardine is not just a food; it’s a medicine,” Lafferty emphasized.

“The MWA is proud to announce here today that 2026 is the Year of Sardine, declared by the MWA. We are making sardine as the product and the focus for the whole year of 2026,” he added.

Health spotlight LAFFERTY, meanwhile, cited the Filipino sardine brand Mega Sardines, which was recently certified as a “superfood” and is currently the MWA declares 2026 Year of

Lafferty explained that cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, as well as liver and kidney disorders often develop from underlying metabolic problems. In the United States alone, he said about 65 percent of the population is affected, leading the MWA to identify metabolic disease—alongside

“Through regular price monitoring and open dialogue with manufacturers, the agency helps ensure that any price adjustments are fair and properly justified,” Roque said.

“At the same time, it provides consumers with timely guidance to support informed choices, while encouraging businesses to uphold ethical and competitive pricing practices,” she added.

Manufacturers were asked last year to hold off on price increases until the end of December, and most complied, the trade department said.

The remaining SKUs are items for which manufacturers have submitted requests for price adjustments. These are currently being carefully evaluated by DTI to ensure that any potential increases are ‘justified, reasonable and aligned with regulations.’

Price stability, the agency noted, has persisted despite rising costs for raw materials, packaging, logistics and tollpacking, thanks to industry cooperation.

Remulla getting impatient over Atong Ang’s surrender or capture

INTERIOR

By Jane Magturo

and Local Government

Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Friday said he is considering increasing the P10 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Atong Ang, who is facing arrest warrants in connection with the missing sabungeros case.

Remulla made the statement after the police conducted operations in 14 possible locations where Ang may be found in the country, but yielded negative results. Some places in Cavite and Pampanga, where the fugitive was thought to be hiding, were raided on Thursday.

Last week Remulla announced the offer of P10 million for

information leading to the arrest of Ang, soon after two trial courts issued warrants of arrest against Ang.

With a bounty of P10 million on his head, Ang is considered the country’s Public Enemy Number One or Most Wanted Person.

“The DILG put up a P10-million reward for his [Ang] arrest. Any information leading to the

conclusive arrest of Atong Ang will merit a P10-million reward,” Remulla said.

“No questions asked. Basta ikaw ang nagbigay ng impormasyon [if you are the one who provides the information] leading directly to the arrest ay P10 million reward para sa kanya [is for you],” he added.

On the possible of increase in the reward money, Remulla said, “Malapit na. Pag ako napikon talagang dadagdagan ko na [It’s coming. If I get piqued, I just might do it,” Remulla was quoted by a television network in an interview.

Remulla said he considers Ang as the country’s number one most wanted person, citing his alleged involvement in the killing of more than 100 missing sabungeros.

Remulla on Thursday said there are reports that businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang may be in Cambodia.

May [there is] information na nasa [that he is in] Cambodia. But that’s raw information… Kasi nag -set up siya ng online sabong sa Cambodia,” Remulla added However, Remulla expressed confidence that Ang has not left the country.

Whistleblower Julie Patidongan, Remulla said, offered the information that Ang was possibly at the Cambodia-Thailand border owing to his involvement in e-sabong in the area.

Patidongan previously said that Ang will not surrender, saying that the businessman is “not an ordinary person,” having business interests and partners in other countries.

If this is true, Ang may have used backdoor channels to leave the country, Remulla said, but added that the Bureau of Immigration has not record of his exit from any of the country’s ports or airports.

Escudero: Increase benefits for workers in power sector

By Butch Fernandez

AFTER championing VATfree electricity to ease household costs, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero filed Senate Bill 498 that mandates insurance coverage and additional benefits for line workers who build, maintain, and repair electrical transmission and distribution systems.

VIP Act gets wide public acceptance at Visayas leg of IRR

By Manuel T. Cayon

DAVAO CITY—Local gov -

ernments in Central Visayas handed their unqualified support to the newly signed Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act, owing to the recent Philippine experience of the Covid-19 pandemic and the succession of emerging diseases.

Cebu Gov. Pamela S. Baricuatro gave the province’s official support to the draft Implementing Rules (IRR) of the VIP Act in a message delivered during the consultation on January 20 by the Cebu provincial veterinarian, Mary Rose Vincoy.

Baricuatro assured the provincial government’s support to this initiative “to advance research, innovation, and public health security.”

“We always stand ready to collaborate with national agencies, academics, and institutions in building a future where knowledge saves lives and preparedness protects generations,” she said.

consultation

Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act.

Science Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., in a video message, reflected on the lessons of the Covid-19 pandemic, saying that it revealed the power of science, partnership, and collaboration and showed that preparedness determines the country’s resilience.

“In the near future, the Institute will enable our country to conduct its own virology research, produce vaccines locally, and build a stronger national response against emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Our scientists and researchers will have the facilities to pursue research on pathogens with pandemic potential, understand their behavior, and develop diagnostic and preventive tools. Through this, we ensure that we can respond from a position of readiness, competence, and selfreliance when the next health crisis arrives,” he said.

The proposed Line Workers Insurance and Benefits Act seeks to require private distribution utilities, electric cooperatives, and transmission or grid operators to provide insurance coverage and entitlements such as retirement and disability benefits, death and burial assistance, and medical expense reimbursements.

“The coverage of my proposed bill also extends to drivers, helpers, and support crew who are deployed alongside line workers

“They perform both critical and dangerous work,” Escudero said in the bill’s explanatory note, “Yet a number of them do so bereft of any form of coverage against death, accidents, illness, and other fortuitous events that could be sustained in the line of duty.”

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Manufacturers that maintained their prices include Universal Canning Inc., Maunlad Canning Inc., Uptrade Resource Corp., Chattra Enterprise, Permex Producer & Exporter Corp., Aquatic Food and Manufacturing, Slord Development Corp., Tosen Foods Inc., Zest-O Corp., Uni-President Corp., Monde Nissin Corp., Philbaking, Wellmade Manufacturing Corp., Unilever Philippines Inc., Peerless Product Manufacturing Co., P&G Philippines Inc., Vayao Wax Manufacturing, Manila Wax, Singkee Enterprises, Sevilla Candles, Green Cross Inc., Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Inc., Energizer, LTH Food Industries Inc., Snow Mountain Dairy Corp., Commonwealth Foods, CDO Foodsphere, Virginia Foods, Nutri Asia, Asia Brewery, Inc., JG Summit Holdings, Inc., Philippine Spring Water Resources, Inc., Robinsons, Billie’s Marketing, and Eccossential Foods Corp.

The DTI said it will provide updates once the evaluation of the remaining SKUs is complete. Bless Aubrey Ogerio

during construction and maintenance operations,” the senator pointed out.

“Employers will be responsible for paying the full cost of insurance premiums, which cannot be deducted from employee wages. This provision ensures that workers receive full protection without bearing the financial burden,” he added.

Escudero explained that the measure draws from House Bill 7561, which was approved by the House of Representatives in the 19th Congress and was not taken up by the upper chamber

during his incumbency as Senate president.

“The provision of insurance coverage and other benefits would ensure that our line workers, as well as their families, are protected from the risks and perils of their chosen occupation,” he said.

Escudero expressed hope that SB 498, which is currently pending before the Senate Committees on Energy and on Labor, will be taken up soon as session resumes next week, stressing the urgency of protecting line workers who face daily hazards in the performance of their duties.

Saytan Integrated School rules La Union’s 8th Tinungbo Street Dance Competition

TBy Mau Victa

HE Saytan Integrated School was crowned champion of the street dance competition of the 8th Tinungbo Festival of Pugo, La Union.

The contingent bagged the top prize as they wowed the crowd with their colorful costumes and topnotch performance during the street parade and field presentation.

As champion, Saytan Integrated School brought home P70,000 cash prize. The school also garnered the Best in Costume award and Best Street Dance award with P10,000 cash prize each, bringing home additional

P20,000 for the two special awards.

Meanwhile, Pugo Central National High School landed first runner-up with a cash prize of P60,000; and Pugo Catholic School is second runner-up with P50,000.

The criteria for judging this year’s winners are 30 percent for street performance and 70 percent for field presentation for a total of 100 percent.

The 8th Tinungbo Festival turned more festive this year with contingents from six schools joining the street dance parade on Friday.

Participating and competing schools were the Pugo Central National High School, Cuenca National

High School, Maoasoas National High School, Saytan Integrated School, San Luis National High School, and Pugo Catholic School.

Pugo’s street dance parade brings together students, locals, families, and visitors, making the activity festive and a community-centered experience that celebrates tradition and youthful energy.

Through the Tinungbo Festival, high school students showcase performances with colorful and culturally inspired choreography, which often depict elements of local tradition, the practice of tinungbo (cooking of rice and fish in bamboo nodes), and community pride.

Lawmaker pushes for stronger IP protection

ALEGISLATOR on early this week filed a resolution at the House of Representatives seeking to investigate lapses and alleged anomalies in the implementation of the law protecting indigenous people, following decades of delayed processes and reported instances of violence and human-rights violations in their ancestral homes.

Party-list Rep. Nathan Oducado of 1Tahanan, filed House Resolution 655, asking House committees to investigate the implementation of Republic Act 8731, also known as the Indigenous Peoples

The Visayas leg of public consultation on the draft was held at the Cebu Technology University in Cebu City and the organizer, Department of Science and Technology, said this was attended by representatives from government, academe, industry, research institutions, and civil society on January 12.

This event followed the initial consultation held in Clark, Pampanga, for the Luzon Leg, as part of a nationwide series aimed at gathering stakeholder insights to shape a responsive administrative and technical framework for the country’s premier virology research institute.

The DOST is conducting the series of public consultation for the drafting of the IRR of Republic Act 12290, otherwise known as the

CBy Ashley J. Manabat

ITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga—Central Luzon is set for an adrenalinecharged spectacle as EuroXtreme Circus arrives in Pampanga, bringing a world-class extreme live entertainment experience to local audiences.

Opening on January 28 at Robinsons Starmills, the international touring production will run until February 22, offering a rare opportunity to witness elite circus artistry and high-impact stunt performances seldom seen in the Philippines.

The Mindanao leg was held this week and the DOST said the expected outcomes of the public consultations include a validated draft IRR, enhanced stakeholder participation, alignment with legal and policy frameworks, defined institutional roles and responsibilities, strengthened transparency and accountability, and informed finalization of the IRR.

The VIP Act was signed into law by President Marcos on September 12 last year and mandates the creation of the country’s premier national institute for virology research and development.

Science Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia said the IRR will provide the framework that will guide how the VIP Law will be carried out ensuring coordination, accountability, and alignment with the law’s vision for a stronger, science-driven Philippines.

EuroXtreme Circus features a powerful lineup of internationally acclaimed performers, blending classic circus traditions with modern, adrenaline-driven acts. Audiences can expect a fast-paced, visually stunning show anchored by comedic clown performances and heart-stopping stunts. Signature attractions include the Wheel of Suspense, where performers test balance and bravery at extreme heights, and the Globe of Terror, featuring motorcycle riders racing inside a steel sphere with breathtaking precision. Completing the lineup are the Flying Trapeze, showcasing timeless aerial artistry, and live FMX Stunts that deliver gravity-defying motorcycle tricks. The production is presented by Art Box Entertainment, led by Executive Producer and Touring

MWA.

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only brand worldwide to receive this recognition in the seafood category.

Rights Act of 1997 (Ipra), following perceived gaps in its implementation thirty years after its enactment.

“We want all Filipinos of all backgrounds to enjoy their right to protect and develop their heritage, culture, and land, especially those who have been historically and socioeconomically marginalized,” said Oducado. “A stronger implementation of the Ipra Law will protect indigenous peoples from entities who seek to intimidate, harass, and exploit them.”

“We studied different sardine brands around the world. And many people say, ‘sardine is a sardine…’ they’re not the same, they’re as different as people are, and it’s based upon where you fish, and it’s based upon how you process that fish,” he explained.

According to Lafferty, Mega Sardines sources its fish from the South Pacific, off the southern coast of Mindanao, which he described as among the cleanest fishing waters in the world. In contrast, he noted that sardines from the Atlantic Ocean can contain higher levels of pollutants

such as lead and cadmium. He also explained that Mega Sardines maintains control over its fishing operations, owning its own boats rather than subcontracting fishermen. This allows the company to process the fish quickly—reportedly moving from ocean to can within 12 hours—reducing the risk of decomposition and ensuring freshness.

He added that whole sardines provide naturally occurring Omega-3s that are less prone to degradation or contamination compared with processed supplements. Lafferty cited a recent Florida study in which 24 of 30 tested baby food and supplement products exceeded acceptable levels of arsenic,

TimeOur

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ABy Albert Stumm The Associated Press

S they age, it’s not uncommon for many people to let out a muted groan when getting out of bed in the morning.

But if you “oof” every time you get in a car or “aargh” while bending over to pick up something, it may be time to prioritize exercises that target your mobility.

Dr. Miho Tanaka, a sports medicine surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, said good mobility is increasingly recognized as an important part of overall health. She pointed to research showing that high mobility has long-term effects in reducing rates of cancer, cardiovascular disease, dementia and depression.

“It’s not just about how you look and how your level of fitness is at any given point,” Tanaka said. “For anyone who wants to stay active later in life, there has to be a deliberate process of maintaining that level of activity by doing mobility exercises.”

Mobility equals strength plus flexibility

MOBILITY and flexibility are often confused, said Jessica Valant, a physical therapist and Pilates instructor near Denver.

Flexibility is simply the extent to which a muscle can lengthen, whereas mobility involves using muscle strength to interact with a network of joints, tendons, ligaments and synovial fluid, which is the lubricant inside the joint. That network around the shoulders, spine, hips, pelvis and knees needs to work well together. Otherwise, it becomes difficult to reach things in high cabinets, squat down to tie your shoes or lift your grandchildren, let alone participate in outdoor activities or sports. Mobility exercises strengthen your muscles while increasing your range of motion, which allows you to be more functional with age, Valant said.

“Motion is lotion, which is a saying we use in physical therapy all the time,” she said.

Two early warning signs

STARTING from about 30 years

old, muscles and tendons start to lose collagen, Tanaka said. That’s the same substance that in hair and skin relates to going gray and getting wrinkles.

Without regular exercise, weaker muscles put extra pressure on joints, she said. Even active people lose muscle in areas that are overlooked at the gym, such as the rotator cuff around the shoulder and postural muscles that support the spine and neck. Tanaka said two early warning signs likely point to the need for mobility training.

The first is aching joints and muscle stiffness without first exerting a lot of effort. Back soreness after a long day of sitting at a desk could signal limited hip or pelvic mobility, she said. Achy knees after being on your feet all day may be a sign of weak quadriceps.

The second sign is more acute pain, such as when you don’t get injured but you still experience swollen or painful joints for several days after participating in a sport like basketball or skiing for the first time a while.

She cautioned against following a recent social media challenge to test mobility by standing up from a seated position on the floor without using your hands.

“I’ve seen some injuries from that, so I definitely don’t recommend that,” she said. Instead, try sitting in a chair and standing up without putting your hands on the chair arms. Next, try to stand on one foot. If you can do both, that’s a good sign.

Tai Chi and yoga are also both great for mobility training, she said.

Other recommended exercises

DR. Corey Simon, associate professor of orthopedic surgery at Duke University School of Medicine, urged people to prioritize mobility before they experience pain in their joints or difficulty moving around.

“You don’t have to have a gym to do this,” Simon said. He suggested working bodyweight exercises into your day. That could include setting an hourly timer to get up and walk

around the house. When you return to your desk, add chair sits to work the quads, hamstrings, calves and glutes. Assuming your balance is OK, doing pushups against a wall or a countertop helps to mobilize the shoulders.

Once those exercises become easy, add exercise bands to build strength.

Valant said that people who are sedentary should simply start walking every day.

“It’s the lowest barrier to entry,” she said.

Beyond that, she suggests adding 10 minutes of mobility training to whatever exercise you’re doing. She offers short mobility routines on her YouTube channel targeting the hips, spine and full body.

Some basic hip movements include lying on your side and lifting your top leg, lying on your back and squeezing your knees to your chest and sitting up with your feet together, lowering your knees toward the floor.

For the spine, try the cat-cow stretch, arching and curving your back with hands and knees on the floor. Or sit in a chair with feet on the floor, twisting your shoulders to both sides.

“This isn’t something that changes in five days, but I tell people, give it four weeks,” she said. “You will see results over time.”

Important for the elderly MOVEMENT is crucial for the elderly as it significantly enhances their physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Regular physical activity helps to maintain strength, flexibility, and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, which are common concerns in later life.

Moreover, engaging in movement promotes cardiovascular health and can alleviate symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes. Beyond physical benefits, movement also fosters social interaction and mental stimulation, combatting feelings of isolation and depression. By incorporating simple activities like walking, stretching, or participating in group exercises, elderly individuals can enjoy a more active, fulfilling lifestyle.

Over 190,000 Caraga seniors benefit from ₧2.1-B DSWD pension program

By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY—More than 190,800 indigent senior citizens in the Caraga Region received social pensions last year, exceeding the government’s target, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported Tuesday.

The DSWD 13 (Caraga) said it released approximately P2.1 billion in stipends to 190,841 beneficiaries across the region’s five provinces in 2025, surpassing its target of 184,700.

In a statement, it credited the successful distribution of the stipends to the local government units’ (LGUs) efficient implementation of the fund transfer scheme.

“In line with the directive of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the Regional Social Pension Unit ensured the implementation of the Transfer of Funds scheme, with 68 out of 73 local government units enrolled in 2025,” the DSWD-13 said.

Under this scheme, funds are transferred once to LGU trust accounts and disbursed quarterly to beneficiaries.

To ensure proper auditing, the DSWD-13 conducted fiduciary reviews for LGU personnel handling the process.

It also recognized the LGU of San Luis in Agusan del Sur as an outstanding national program implementer last year.

The government provides a social pension to indigent elderly citizens primarily to fulfill its constitutional mandate to protect the most vulnerable sectors of society through social protection, as implemented under Republic Act No. 9994 (Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010) and amended by Republic Act No. 11916. The program, known as the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC), is designed to enhance the living conditions of eligible seniors and to alleviate hunger and reduce poverty among the elderly population.

Primary bases and objectives

THE primary bases and objectives of the program are rooted in legislation

aimed at supporting indigent senior citizens. Mandated by the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 (RA 9994), the program provides monthly stipends to assist those in need. In July 2022, the law was amended by RA 11916, which increased the monthly stipend from P500 to P1,000 to better support seniors facing rising living costs. This financial assistance is specifically designed to aug-

they must not be receiving any pension from the Social Security System (SSS), the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), or any private insurance company. Lastly, they should have no permanent source of income or regular financial support from family or relatives.

“The DSWD implements the Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens or SocPen as a mechanism to augment the medical needs and daily subsistence of qualified indigent seniors. Last year, a total of 4,112,895 indigent senior citizens benefited from the program,” Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao, who is also the DSWD spokesperson, said.

The program serves as a critical, noncontributory social safety net to ensure that no Filipino senior citizen, particularly the poorest, is left behind.  Beyond pension distribution, the DSWD-13 strengthened case manage -

ment the daily subsistence, food, and medical needs of elderly individuals who lack other sources of income or financial support. Additionally, the program serves as a social safety net, protecting vulnerable elderly citizens from neglect, abuse, or deprivation. To qualify as an “indigent senior citizen” for the program, an individual must be 60 years old or older and meet several specific conditions. Firstly, the senior must be frail, sickly, or have a disability, indicating that they have a physical condition requiring support but are currently lacking it. Additionally,

What I hated to eat then have become my comfort food in old age

Tthe types of food we are familiar with and we feel satisfied after consuming them. They are what we call “comfort foods,” in the same way that we have our “comfort shoes,” our “comfort clothes,” our “comfort friends”, or for that matter our “comfort zone.”

There was a time when I also couldn’t resist fried chicken, lechon, crispy pata, and inihaw. Add pancit palabok to the list. They were my comfort food choices.

If I had my comfort foods, I had discomfort foods too. I obstinately resisted dishes that had repolyo, ampalaya, pechay, kinchay or any kind of vegetables for that matter.

But that was in another life.

Now in the years after reaching 60, my comfort food choices have changed.

The foods that I preferred early in my

life have ceased to be appealing to me in my later years. Even my taste in food and drinks is different now. Put potato fries and a glass of cola drink in front of me, and I would barely touch them. My satiety level seems to be different since I no longer gorge on food anymore, no matter how delicious. In fact, I find myself eating less of the amount of food that I used to be able to consume before.

It’s all part of the course of natural aging which, as someone said, is not a disease.

Embracing the reality that my physical body and its needs have changed with the years, I have learned that it is wise to listen to it because it usually knows better.

For instance, when my stomach feels full, that’s my aged body telling me I’ve had enough, so I stop eating.

My wife and other seniors tell me the

same thing. They too get hungry less often and feel fuller more quickly. Why is this so? Science says that after 60, old people tend to have lower levels of hunger hormones called ghrelin and higher levels of the fullness hormones, cholecystokinin and leptin.

Because I now have problems consuming large meals, when dining out, I always have a “kitty” bag ready so I can bring home any leftover food. At home, my wife and I divide our meals into smaller portions and have them every few hours.

My body also reminds me that my teeth are not what they used to be. This is why I prefer that gum-friendly food, eaten without too much munching and chewing to make it easy on my dentures and the few original teeth still left intact. So, it’s thumbs up for congee (rice broth) or omelets and thumbs down for meaty choices such as steak or liempo or crispy pata.

I have a bottle of chili-garlic oil on the side to spice up any dish in front of me. No worry because chili has capsaicin, an antioxidant which has antimicrobial and pain-relieving properties and may support heart health.

My aging body tells me that I need to eat smarter. Eating smarter means eating more vegetables and fruits. Remember how I hated vegetables in my younger days? Following my aging body’s wise advice, I have turned into

digestion, immunity, and can reduce inflammation.

Aging also affects an elderly’s sense of smell and taste, making foods seem less appetizing. As one grows older, there is a decrease in the number of taste buds as well olfactory cells, the functional unit in smelling, decrease with aging. Some medications can also affect how foods taste.

This is why probably my body now craves spicy foods, to wake up my appetite and make up for the decline in my sense of taste and smell. At home

a veggie and fruit lover.

At breakfast, my wife and I make sure we have fresh green leafy vegetables on the side, together with our coffee and boiled or fried egg, fresh lettuce for her, and raw mustasa for me. For lunch and supper at home, I now have Korean kimchi consisting of fermented vegetables, most often cabbage radish, ginger, crushed garlic, spring onions, as a side dish, which my children hate for its “stinky” smell. A positively healthy dish, kimchi is rich in probiotics that support gut health,

I also cap my meals with “atsara” (pickled papaya) which is also nutrientfull of antioxidants and fiber that improve digestion and boost immunity. It is only now that I fully appreciate the “atsara” painstakingly prepared by my paternal grandmother and which I belittled as “pang-matanda.” My bingeing on Korean dramas have led me to “bibimbap”, which simply translates to “mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables.“ When I’m in a mall, I gravitate towards food stalls that offer it. I like to eat it with mildly spicy ramyeon (Korean version of Japanese ramen), which serves as my soup. When we go to a Chinese restaurant, I make sure to order a plate of chopsuey for me. This meal is a delicious mix of vegetables, meat, and mushrooms in a thick sweet, spicy, savory sauce. Would you believe that lately I’ve also developed an increased liking for avocado (shakes) and pears (fresh and juicy ones), which are nutrient rich? I also like salmon and mackerel. Is that because my aging body wants more omega 3 and other nutrients needed for my overall health?

In between meals, I like to nibble at one unsalted boiled egg (essential nutrients for energy, brain health, and muscle maintenance) as well as small bits and pieces of “quezo de bola” (nutrient

ment for vulnerable seniors through its “Help Enhance the Living Condition to Protect Older Persons” framework.

“We thank our LGU partners for their continued support and cooperation. This strong partnership allows us to deliver timely assistance and ensure that our indigent senior citizens receive the care and protection they deserve,” DSWD-13 Director Mari-Flor Dollaga said.

The regional social welfare office, she said, would sustain the program’s momentum this year. PNA

dense food that support strong bones, muscle health, and energy). Warning: cheese is highly salty and should be consumed in moderation. For our video snacking at night, I and my wife now treat ourselves to nuts and seeds instead of fries and as an alternative to ice cream, occasionally we indulge on unsweetened yogurt, a popular probiotic food that is good for blood sugar and provides lots of nutrients that support overall health. So, as you can see, my food cravings have made a complete 180-degree turn. Yes, life does have a way

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YouTube allows parents to set Shorts Timer to 0 for teens

YOUTUBE has launched new features to protect its underaged users as part of the platform’s goal to keep teen audiences safe. This is part of YouTube’s promise to help ensure that kids can learn and grow in a safe and trustworthy environment.

It’s a very boomer thing to say that “the internet is a scary place” but it is. However, you can’t prevent your teenager from consuming online content. Thus, YouTube has rolled out a suite of age-appropriate content and enjoyable experiences for younger viewers.

The update includes stronger management of Shorts viewing time, the introduction of high-quality content guidelines for teens, and a streamlined setup process for parent supervision accounts.

With Shorts Timer, parents can manage how long their teenagers spend on short-form content.

For example, a parent can set the timer to zero when it’s time to focus on homework, then adjust it to 60 minutes during free time such as a long family car ride or a weekend break. Soon, parents will even have the option to restrict Shorts permanently.

“We’ve spent over a decade building tailored protections for our youngest viewers based on what parents and experts tell us they need: better controls, age-appropriate content, and simple account management,” said Jennifer Flannery O’Connor, vice president of product management at YouTube.

YouTube has also made the sign-up experience easier so that parents can easily create accounts for their children and switch between accounts in the mobile app with just a few taps. This means that every user will have a personalized viewing experience

with age-suitable settings and recommendations.

These new features were unveiled during a virtual media roundtable. Dr. Garth Graham, global head of YouTube Health, walked media participants through the new features.

For example, parents using supervised accounts can now customize “Bedtime” and “Break” reminders as additional health protections so teenagers get enough rest.

“YouTube’s philosophy is to help kids grow safely within the digital world. The goal is to let teenagers learn, explore, and be inspired online, while giving parents more control and confidence in the process,” said Graham.

“The updates were designed to empower parents while keeping YouTube a safe and inspiring environment for teens. We continue to evolve our tools and protections to reflect the needs of families in the digital age,” said O’Connor.

YouTube has also unveiled new principles and a guide for creators to help steer teens toward content that is fun, age-appropriate, and high-quality.

Developed in collaboration with global experts— including the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital—these guidelines help YouTube’s systems prioritize educational and inspiring videos. This means high-quality content from channels like Khan Academy, CrashCourse, and TED-Ed will get more visibility, ensuring teens find the right balance of entertainment and learning

“We reset the standards so the recommendation system prioritizes content that can foster inspiration, curiosity, diverse perspectives, and life skills,” said Graham

More than bans and controls, YouTube is more concerned about age-appropriate content.

Thus, YouTube said it has built age-differentiated protection systems over the past 10-plus years, including a kids app, a pre-teen supervised experience, and linkage-based supervision for teen accounts.

“Ages 12, 14, 16 and 17 are all different developmental stages. It’s important to gradually expand autonomy according to a teenager’s stage of growth,” said Graham.

‘AT YouTube, we believe in protecting children within the digital world, not from the digital world,’ said Jennifer Flannery O’Connor,

Globe brings new way to earn digital credits

GLOBE has partnered with The Binary Holdings (TBH) to bring OneWave to GlobeOne, giving Filipino subscribers a new way to earn digital credits. Instead of only earning rewards when you top up or spend money, you can now earn digital credits simply by engaging with games, content, shopping, and other activities inside the app.

Filipinos already spend hours each day on their mobile devices. We watch videos, play games, shop online, and connect with friends and family. OneWave gives this time spent a tangible benefit. The more you engage with the GlobeOne ecosystem, the more you earn.

Traditional loyalty programs reward you for spending money. OneWave expands this idea. Now, participation and engagement help you accumulate BNRY Digital Credits, whether you’re on a basic plan or a premium one. This approach gives everyone access to rewards, regardless of how much they spend on their mobile services.

PS5 Hyperpop Collection soon to launch in PHL

BY PATRICK VILLANUEVA

IS the black and white outfit of the PS5 not cutting it for you? Then you should be excited for the upcoming Hyperpop Collection that speaks “techno” with its colorful and sleek design for your PS5. On the PlayStation Blog, Sony Interactive Entertainment vice president of global

marketing Isabelle Tomatis announced the new designs for PS5 accessories coming this March: the Hyperpop Collection.

Designed for DualSense wireless controllers and PS5 console covers, it houses three colors: Techno Red, Remix Green, and Rhythm Blue. It has glossy blacks shifting into vivid neons that certainly gives a new aesthetic for your setup.

If you want to have that fiery look, moreso if you enjoy action-packed hack-and-slash games like “Diablo,” “God of War,” or “Bayonetta,” then the Techno Red will bring out that intense vibe on your gaming.

On the other hand, if you lean into the cozy and comforting side with games like “Stardew Valley,” “Animal Crossing,” or “Overcooked,” then Remix Green might be the setup for you. It simply brings out a low stress and relaxing feel when you boot up your game.

But if you want to feel cool and immersive with your gameplay, especially on open world games like “Hogwarts Legacy,” “Monster Hunter,” or “Cyberpunk 2077,” you should consider the Rhythm Blue because of its stimulating finish.

“We’re cranking the volume all the way up with a collection that doesn’t just stand out, it takes over the room. Inspired by the glow of the RGB lights of your impressive gaming setups, these new colors go loud in the best possible way,” said Leo Cardoso from the Color, Material, and Finish design team.

The Hyperpop Collection will launch on March 12, 2026 and the DualSense wireless controllers and PS5 console covers have a recommended retail price of P4,890 and P4,290, respectively.

Prices may vary for actual retailers.

Filipinos among the most patient digital customers, says Twilio

BY RIZAL RAOUL REYES

WHILE digitalization has streamlined global connectivity, it has also heightened consumer expectations. According to new research from Twilio, the customer engagement platform powering real-time personalized experiences, Filipino consumers possess the second-highest “digital patience” in the Asia Pacific & Japan (APJ) region, trailing only Indonesia.

The study, titled Decoding Digital Patience: Are Asia Pacific’s Digital Users Losing Their Cool?, highlighted a significant gap between expectation and reality. Filipino consumers exhibited the highest “willing-to-wait” threshold in the region, expecting issues to be resolved within 27.3 minutes (compared to the APJ average of 24.4 minutes). However, they also endured the longest actual wait times, averaging 31.9 minutes. While Filipinos demonstrate a unique tolerance for delays, this endurance is conditional. The

study observed that for local consumers, the quality of the interaction outweighs the speed.

Fifty percent of the respondents ranked clear instructons as the top priority, surpassing the desire for quick resolution, while 41 percent said speed and resolution is vital but secondary to clarity. For the 41 percent surveyed, data security remained a non-negotiable factor in digital trust. Meanwhile, 37 percent of the consumers expected automated interactions to mirror the friendliness of a real person.

The study said patience levels fluctuate based on the perceived complexity and urgency of the task. It added that Filipinos showed more grace toward health-related concerns, recognizing that these situations require specialized care. However, patience declines when routine services fail. The root causes of significant frustration arises from telecom service outages (69 percent), incorrect or damaged items (68 percent), disputed charges or unauthorized transactions (68 percent), and delayed or missed retail deliveries (66 percent).

When expectations are unmet, the study said Filipino consumers are quick to pivot: 43 percent will seek answers themselves, 35 percent will switch communication channels, and 26 percent will leave negative reviews.

THE AI GAP: EFFICIENCY VS. EMPATHY TWILIO said the Philippines remains a leader in AI adoption, with 81 percent of consumers having interacted with AI-powered service tools. However, 42 percent admitted these tools are testing their patience. The primary drivers of AI dissatisfaction include scripted responses (46 percent), generic answers (44 percent), and unresolved issues (41 percent) The study said the “human touch” remains the gold standard. Forty-three percent of Filipinos preferred starting a support journey with a human agent, compared to only 23 percent who preferred automation. For many, a longer wait for a human is viewed as a “guaranteed solution” rather than a gamble on a fast but potentially rigid AI script.

BNRY Digital Credits function as digital loyalty points within GlobeOne. You earn them through playing games, watching content, shopping within the ecosystem, and participating in various activities and experiences. The credits operate within a published treasury policy and are tracked on-chain for transparency and auditability. These credits can be redeemed for goods and services available in the ecosystem, with potential future options including Globe services and partner offerings. The Binary Network, TBH’s blockchain technology, tracks all transactions securely and transparently. “OneWave gives everyone a chance to participate in a digital economy, no matter their spending tier,” says Manit Parikh, CEO of The Binary Holdings. “A subscriber on a basic plan who actively uses the platform can earn just as much as a high-spending customer who doesn’t engage much.”

“Our partnership with TBH and OneWave helps us expand the ways we provide value and recognition to our customers. It supports deeper engagement and reinforces our goal of contributing to a more active and digitally empowered subscriber base,” said Darius Delgado, chief commercial officer of Globe. With OneWave in GlobeOne, Globe evolves from a connectivity provider into a platform where the time you spend translates into real subscriber value. Your daily mobile habits can now contribute to your personal rewards while giving you handson experience with digital economic systems. The Philippines’ position as one of the world’s most active mobile-using nations makes it an ideal environment for this type of engagement-driven model, where organic behaviors translate into tangible returns within the telecommunications ecosystem. More information can be found at www.globe.com. ph.

“Filipino consumers are patient because they start with a deep sense of trust, but this trust is a foundation that brands must either build upon or risk breaking,” said Nicholas Kontopoulos, vice president of Marketing, APJ at Twilio.

“Capturing long-term loyalty requires meeting Filipinos on their own terms: through clear communication, strong data safeguards, and seamless transitions to human agents. When a brand gets this right, they don’t just satisfy a customer—they build a level of credibility that is very difficult for competitors to disrupt.” To leverage “digital patience” as a competitive advantage, Twilio suggested brands focus on the four levers of AI interaction such as clarity, choice, continuity and care.

Twilio commissioned YouGov to survey 7,331 adults (1,007 in the Philippines) between August 28 and September 4, 2025. The sample represented a diverse cross-section of generations and geographies across Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, and Singapore.

Sinulog, SB19 and the Titan

Tough Redmi Note 15

IN the middle of Sinulog—amid the drums, the heat, the color, and the movement of Cebu—one word kept surfacing: Titan.

A word associated with scale, strength, and endurance, it was recognized as a figure of immense power in Greek mythology. Today, the meaning has shifted beyond myth. A Titan is no longer defined by legend, but by presence—something built to last, shaped by time, and confident enough to stand its ground.

Last week in Cebu, three “Titans” came together. There was Sinulog, a cultural celebration that traces its roots back more than 500 years to the arrival of the Santo Niño. It remains a living expression of faith, history and identity—one that continues to define January in the Queen City.

Then came SB19. As the undisputed P-pop kings, they have evolved from local trailblazers into a global powerhouse that represent the new standard of Filipino talent—one defined by discipline, creative ownership, and the confidence to command the world stage.

And then there is the Redmi Note Series.

Under Xiaomi—the world’s third-largest smartphone brand with a 14 percent global market share—Redmi has been instrumental in expanding the company’s reach. The Note Series alone has surpassed 460 million cumulative shipments across more than 100 countries, contributing to Xiaomi’s milestone of one billion smartphones shipped globally. A Titan in technology, built through scale, reliability and time.

With Sinulog as the stage, SB19 as the voice, and the Redmi Note 15 Series at the center, the moment brought together heritage, influence and durability— three forces meeting in one defining celebration.

While I wasn’t able to join the Sinulog festivities in Cebu, I did get my hands on the flagship Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G—and for the past week I put it through its paces to see if it really lives up to its Titan Tough branding.

DESIGN AND DISPLAY

THE Redmi Note 15 series marks a return to a boxier design language, moving away from the curved silhouettes used in recent iterations. The flatter frame provides a more secure grip during daily use, particularly when handling the phone one-handed. Up front, the subtly curved All Around Liquid Display keeps the screen looking modern while avoiding the exaggerated edge curves that can sometimes interfere with touch accuracy.

The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G is available in Mocha Brown, Black, and Glacier Blue. The Mocha Brown variant is slightly thicker and heavier at 208 grams due to its textured rear finish, while the other two come in marginally lighter at 207.1 grams with smoother surfaces that give the device a cleaner, more uniform look.

The 6.83-inch 1.5K sunlight display is clearly designed with outdoor use in mind. With peak brightness rated at up to 3,200 nits, onscreen content remains readable even under harsh lighting. Touch responsiveness is aided by an instant touch sampling rate of up to 2,560Hz, which translates to quicker input recognition when scrolling, typing, or playing fast-paced games.

Audio output comes from dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support. The claimed 400 percent volume boost is noticeable in louder environments, helping dialogue and system sounds remain audible without immediately reaching for headphones.

TITAN TOUGH, DROP DEFIANT

WHILE this isn’t Redmi’s first foray into this AntiFragile Era of Tough tech, the brand pushed its durability narrative further this time around. In previous years, demonstrations leaned more toward

scratch resistance, dust exposure, and basic water protection.

This year, however, the tone was noticeably more aggressive. In the videos shown during the launch, testers were shown using staple guns on the display, submerging the phone underwater for 24 hours with the screen left on, and even subjecting it to a 400-foot paragliding drop.

So how was it able to survive? At the center of this approach is Xiaomi’s Redmi Titan Durability framework, which forms the structural foundation of the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G. It combines a reinforced mid-frame, a strengthened motherboard, and internal shock-absorbing components designed to distribute impact forces during accidental drops.

The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, while the rear uses a fiberglass back panel, selected for its ability to absorb impact more effectively than traditional glass without adding unnecessary weight.

Xiaomi states that the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G is rated to withstand front-facing drops of up to 2.5 meters under certified testing conditions and has received SGS 5-Star Premium Performance Certification, covering resistance to drop, bending, and compression scenarios. Environmental protection is handled through IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, covering dust resistance, water immersion, and high-pressure water exposure. The device also carries TÜV SÜD Smartphone Water-Resistant Endurance Certification, which evaluates resistance through repeated exposure rather than a single instance.

Supporting this is a system of 17 precision-engineered water-resistant design points protecting areas such as ports, speakers, buttons, and internal connectors.

Xiaomi specifies that the device can endure submersion in water up to two meters for as long as 24 hours under laboratory conditions.

But rather than recreating those extreme tests, our usage focused on everyday risks—which, if you live in Manila, already comes with its own kind of intensity.

The phone spent time inside packed MRT trains during rush hour, squeezed between bodies and bags, slipping from my hand more than once while navigating the commute. It also took a fall while I was having lunch—the kind that happens when you’re wiping the table clean after accidentally spilling a drink onto the phone. Good thing I can easily wash the sticky off.

On one drive, it even slipped from my windshieldmounted phone holder, slid across the dashboard, struck the gear shift, hitting a small stack of coins before landing on the car floor. Despite all these, it survived unscathed.

BATTERY AND CHARGING

BATTERY endurance is one of the biggest upgrades of the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G. The device is equipped with a 6,500mAh silicon-carbon battery with 10 percent SiC content, designed to support longer daily use while maintaining 80 percent battery health after up to 1,600 charge cycles. In practice, the larger

capacity allows the phone to stretch comfortably across a full day and into the next under mixed use, including messaging, social media, photography, and video streaming.

Charging is handled by 100W HyperCharge, which Xiaomi states can bring the battery from 0 to 100 percent in around 45 minutes under laboratory conditions. While charging speeds vary depending on usage and temperature, topping up during short breaks proved sufficient to recover several hours of use. The phone also supports 22.5W wired reverse charging, allowing it to power accessories or other devices when needed.

PERFORMANCE BOOST

POWERING the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G is the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 Mobile Platform, paired with up to 12GB LPDDR4X RAM and up to 512GB UFS 2.2 storage. Rather than pushing peak performance figures, the chipset focuses on consistency and efficiency, delivering smoother multitasking and improved graphics handling compared to the previous generation.

In day-to-day use, navigation remains fluid, apps reload quickly, and thermal behavior stays controlled during extended sessions. Gaming performance benefits from the chipset’s improved GPU capability, with stable frame delivery across popular titles when paired with default settings. While this is not positioned as a performance-centric device, the overall experience remains steady and predictable, aligning with the phone’s broader emphasis on reliability.

IMPROVED AI AND CAMERAS

THE Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G centers its imaging around a 200MP main camera using the new ISOCELL HPE sensor. The setup is complemented by an 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 32MP front camera for selfies. There is no telephoto lens here; instead it uses the camera system’s in-sensor zoom supported by the 200MP AI Engine, enabling five focal lengths ranging from 23mm to 92mm. This includes 2× and 4× optical-level zoom, allowing tighter framing without the heavy quality drop typically associated with digital zoom.

In use, this flexibility becomes more noticeable than the megapixel count itself. Switching between focal lengths allows subjects to be framed more deliberately—whether stepping closer for portraits or tightening compositions for architectural details— while maintaining consistent color and exposure. Xiaomi’s triple focal-length DAG HDR helps manage highlights and shadows across these zoom levels, particularly in outdoor scenes. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps with DAG processing, delivering more stable exposure when zooming compared to earlier models. Dynamic Shots 2.0 adds short motion capture for social sharing, while AI Imaging Enhancement, AI Beautify, and AI Erase Pro provide optional post-capture tools for quick edits. The cameras are good enough and the AI tools feel quite improved, though I’m still hoping it

gets a telephoto lens next time.

FINAL WORD: While it feels like the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G held back slightly from delivering a truly revolutionary upgrade that would make this an automatic buy, the phone still brings together enough meaningful refinements to justify its place in the lineup. The durability additions, better display, improved camera system, and overall polish make the price adjustment easier to understand. What it does manage, however, is presence. Among similarly priced midrange devices, the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G stands out as one of the best-looking options available—and that counts for more than we often admit. Design may not appear on a spec sheet, but it’s the part you interact with every single day. The Redmi Note 15 Pro+ 5G is available in Mocha Brown, Glacier Blue, and Black, with a suggested retail price of P27,999.

For those considering other options within the lineup, the Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G comes in Titanium Color, Mist Purple, and Black, with prices starting at P19,999, while the Redmi Note 15 5G begins at P14,999. The standard Redmi Note 15 rounds out the series with prices starting at P9,999. From January 16 to 29, buyers can enjoy P2,000 savings on select models, along with a free Xiaomi Smart Band 10 and Black Box Gift Set.

accounts through mobile. As revealed on their blog, Epic users will now enjoy cross-platform text chat, letting them message their online friends via private or group messages. Chat history will also be accessible for mobile so users can check their messages anywhere. It was only in December 2025 that Epic Games allowed for cross-platform

Editor: Mike Policarpio

Flagship US English program invests in Filipino students

THE United States Embassy has announced three new cohorts of the English Access Program Scholarship in Davao City, Bohol, and Bataan, benefiting 150 high-achieving Filipino students.

The program is a partnership between the US Embassy’s Regional English Language Office, the Department of Education (DepEd), and public schools in each location. Students and teachers selected through a competitive, merit-based process will gain invaluable skills from American innovation and excellence in English language content and instruction, preparing them to enter the workforce.

Funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the two-year, intensive after-school program strengthens English proficiency while building digital, leadership, and critical thinking skills among public school students aged 13 to 15. Participants will also engage in cultural activities, including the celebration of American excellence in partnership with US officials as part of America’s 250th anniversary and the US-Philippine diplomatic relations’ 80th year in 2026.

“By focusing on advanced literacy and professional-level communica -

THE search is on for the firstever national artificial intelligence (AI) Team to represent the Philippines on the global stage, where they will join fellow students from more than 60 countries in the development and responsible use of the technology. The Ateneo de Manila Business Insights Laboratory for Development (Ateneo BUILD), a research and innovation laboratory under the John Gokongwei School of Management of Ateneo de Manila University, has been assigned as the sole accredited Country Coordinator for the International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (IOAI). As an incubator for student-led startups, and with deep expertise in data and AI-related software development, Ateneo BUILD is tasked with organizing the nationwide selection process and mentoring the four-member delegation that will compete at the Global Finals at the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in Abu Dhabi,

tion, we are preparing these highachieving students for the demands of the global workforce,” said Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna of the US Embassy. “Their success is a direct investment in the future of the US-Philippine relationship and our shared goals—ultimately making both our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

On January 8, the Regional Eng -

lish Language Office launched the first 2026 cohort at Pablo M. Piatos Sr. Integrated School in Bunawan, Davao City with 50 exceptional students joining from various schools across the area.

“The [program] plays a significant role in raising the English proficiency of learners, especially those from far-flung schools,” confirmed DepEd Davao City Assistant Superintendent Rebecca Sagot. “Through well-structured weekly lessons [and interactive, learner-centered activities, as well as support from mentors, it] builds learners’ confidence and communication skills in English, empowering them to express themselves more effectively and opening wider academic and future

opportunities.”

The second cohort launched on January 10 in Panglao, Bohol, with 50 students from Lourdes National High School.

The third, also with 50 students, started on January 17 at the City of Balanga National High School in Bataan.

Since its inception in 2004, more than 200,000 students in more than 85 countries have received the English Access Program Scholarship, including nearly 1,500 alumni in the Philippines. Educators in the program also join a global network of Access teachers to strengthen their instructional skills through American English excellence to better serve their communities.

United Arab Emirates (UAE), from August 2 to 8, 2026.

The 2025 edition of the IOAI held in Beijing, China welcomed hundreds of students from over 60 countries.

Open to all PHL schools WHILE Ateneo BUILD serves as the implementing body, the organizers emphasize that the IOAI Philippines is a national initiative and not limited to any single institution. In line with international IOAI standards, the competition is open to all eligible high school students from Grades 7 to 12 nationwide, whether they are from public, private, or science high schools.

Ateneo BUILD revealed its pact to uphold a barrier-free, inclusive, and merit-based selection process to ensure “the team truly represents the best of the entire country.”

The initial stage will concentrate on logic and scientific inquiry. The National Eliminations (Stage 1) are designed to be an accessible entry point for all high school students

(Grades 7 to 12) with strong problem-solving skills, regardless of their initial coding experience.

The competition will turn more technical as it progresses through the semi-finals and national finals.

Participants will eventually tackle a rigorous syllabus covering Machine Learning, AI Ethics, and Computer Vision.

To narrow this gap, finalists will receive intensive mentorship through a selection bootcamp and a dedicated training period from April to June to sharpen the technical skills needed for the world stage.

The Philippine mission THIS initiative can be described as a “whole-of-nation” effort to prove that Filipino youth are ready for the global frontier. The mission is in direct alignment with the Department of Education’s MATATAG Agenda, as well as the national STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and AI strategies of the Department of Science and

Technology and the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

According to organizers, the selection will undergo a rigid screening procedure. Through the leadership of Ateneo BUILD, the process is strictly merit-based, inclusive, and non-profit. Digital equity will be a core priority, ensuring that students from all 17 regions have an equal opportunity to qualify via accessible online platforms.

Inclusivity is guaranteed in the process. To ensure every talented student can participate regardless of financial background, IOAI Philippines is open to partnerships with organizations to help support the national team's travel and registration costs.

The IOAI equips high school students worldwide with skills to build AI—and the ethical grounding to use it responsibly. They have until January 25, 2026 to register for the national eliminations via www.ioaiph.org Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

THE Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) has opened applications for the 2027-2028 Fulbright Foreign Student Program, affirming that Filipino scholars can still pursue study opportunities in the United States despite the Trump administration’s stricter visa policies for international students.

The Fulbright initiative, part of the #PartnersInProsperity campaign, continues to serve as a cornerstone of academic and cultural exchange between the Philippines and the US. Its flagship Foreign Student Program supports Filipinos pursuing Master’s or Doctoral degrees, as well as nondegree doctoral research, in American universities.

Executive Director Julio Amador of PAEF underscored the program’s resilience, noting that the Fulbright Program is celebrating its 80th anniversary worldwide—“a testament to 250 years of US excellence in higher education.”

Amador added that PAEF, the binational commission administering Fulbright in the Philippines, continues to enjoy strong support from both governments.

“Funding commitments have increased over the years, and we will soon be announcing additional scholarship opportunities in priority areas such as space science and energy,” he said.

Asked if President Donald Trump’s tighter visa policies have affected the program, he clarified: “No changes in our funding status or number of scholars.”

GLOBAL leader in international education International Baccalaureate (IB) has opened the annual application window for the Global Youth Action Fund—an award open to students enrolled in a secondary school aged 12 to 19 who have developed projects or initiatives aimed at creating a positive social impact in their communities.

The Global Youth Action Fund will be open to students or student groups from IB and non-IB schools. The window to apply for the grant will be open until January 30, 2026.

The fund is open to young people who are driven by purpose and a desire to make a difference. To date, the Global Youth Action Fund has awarded grants to more than 290 projects led by more than 440 young people globally. Whether tackling climate change in Jakarta, advancing gender equity in Nairobi, or building digital inclusion in Lima, each project lends to a shared movement of youth-led action and collective hope.

“Since its founding in 1968, the IB has been dedicated to building a better, more peaceful world,” said Chief Community Partnerships and Development Officer Dr. Nicole Bien of IB.

“Young people today are showing great resilience and curiosity in the face of global challenges, starting from within their communities and working outwards to develop initiatives that drive meaningful change. We are delighted to support these young leaders in their

Scholarships still accessible FULBRIGHT PHILIPPINES emphasized that its suite of scholarships remains available to qualified Filipino applicants.

Programs include Fulbright Foreign Student Program-Graduate studies (Master’s and PhD), Fulbright Advanced Research and University Lecturing Program (visiting scholars), Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Program (early-career educators), Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program (mid-career professionals), and Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD, undergraduate students).

Also included are Fulbright-PhilSA Program Award in Space Science and Technology Applications (in partnership with the Philippine Space Agency), Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching (Fulbright DAI, K-12 educators), Fulbright US-Asean Visiting Scholar Program (regional research initiatives), Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship (heritage research specialists).

Deadlines, information sessions APPLICATIONS for the 2027-2028 cycle will be accepted until April 30, 2026. To guide applicants through the process, Fulbright Philippines has scheduled several information sessions: in-person, January 24 (10 a.m.); and virtual via Zoom on February 12 (7 p.m), March 14 and April 11 (both at 10 a.m.).

Interested candidates may visit https://fulbright.org.ph to review eligibility requirements and access the online application portal. Inquiries may also be directed to the PAEF office through the website’s contact services.

Global Youth Action Fund 2026 applications open for all students Fulbright Scholarship applications ongoing despite tighter visa rules

inspiring efforts.”

The Global Youth Action Fund is part of the IB’s commitment to support, elevate and empower youth voices. Every funded project they initiate must align with one or more of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and is reviewed by an international panel of experts, educators, and youth leaders.

Selection is based on purpose and vision (addressing meaningful global or local challenges), innovation and creativity (offering bold, original approaches to change), impact and sustainability (demonstrating measurable potential for long-term benefit), and collaboration and leadership (engaging others to create shared solutions).

Selected students will receive up to $3,000 in grant funding, as per project needs, and dependent on the students’ request and what the IB Global Youth Action Fund committee decides. They will also have access to mentorship and networking opportunities with leading social entrepreneurs and other student awardees worldwide.

“The most meaningful aspect of the program was receiving firsthand insights from industry experts,” said Vietnamese student Sadhika Kapoor, whose EcoPsych project promotes ecofriendly action in schools. “We felt genuinely honored to be in the presence of highly accomplished individuals. That they began their changemaking journeys at the same age as us made them even more compelling role models.”

Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan

BEYOND THE HOLIDAYS

Why Hong Kong is a must-visit for all seasons

Story & photos by Ginger Franz S. Ocampo

WHEN people hear the words “Hong Kong,” what usually comes to mind are Disneyland and cooler December weather. For many Filipinos, it is seen as a holiday destination best visited during the colder months.

Growing up, my dream of going to Hong Kong revolved around Disneyland—the happiest place on earth. Like many, I also visited Hong Kong in December, expecting the usual holiday crowds and seasonal experience, made even more special by the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s city-wide extravaganza, Hong Kong Winterfest.

However, my trip made me realize that the city offers so much more than what is often associated with year-end travel. Even in December, it became clear that Hong Kong is not a destination that should be limited to one season. It’s no surprise that the Hong Kong Tourism Board recommends visiting Hong Kong during any time of the year.

One of the first things I learned during the trip was the importance of planning, especially during the busy holiday season. While it is easy to focus on destinations, small details like SIM cards for mobile data can make or break a travel day. Many online recommendations suggest buying SIM cards at the airport, but from experience, this took more time than expected. Booking these essentials in advance through platforms like Trip.com made a noticeable difference, allowing us to start exploring almost immediately. As someone who considers travel a privilege, making the most out of every hour mattered to me. That same mindset carried over when it came to booking attraction tickets. Visiting in December meant dealing with larger crowds, making advance booking even more valuable. Securing tickets ahead of time through Trip.com helped us avoid long queues and plan our days better.

Once the planning was sorted out, getting around the city became surprisingly easy. For starters, it certainly helps to be booked in a hotel situated at the center of everything. In Hopewell Hotel, we found ourselves right smack in the heart of Wan Chai, which pretty much served as our gateway for our unforgettable adventure. With our cozy room and proximity to several dining options, we also found time to enjoy its five-star amenities.

Hong Kong’s efficient public transport system, paired with the MTR app, made navigating the city feel less intimidating, even for first-time visitors like me. The Octopus card quickly became a travel essential, as it could be used not only on trains and buses, but also in convenience stores and supermarkets. Even during December crowds, the system remained reliable and easy to use.

Despite the efficient transport system, one thing that stood out to me was how crowded tourist spots can get, especially during December. Seeing the long lines in person made me realize that Hong Kong’s popularity extends beyond just the holiday season. Booking premium or express tickets in advance through platforms like Trip.com became less of a luxury and more of a necessity.

This was especially evident at the Peak Tram. The long line outside was already overwhelming, but having booked a Ruby Pass ahead of time allowed us to skip the queue entirely. Riding the tram and seeing the city from above was one of the highlights of my trip. It was also interesting to learn that some locals actually use the tram daily because of where they live. At the top, the Peak Tower offered more than just views, with souvenir shops, food stalls, and Madame Tussauds all in one place.

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong was particularly memorable for me. Seeing wax figures of Filipino icons such as Anne CurtisSmith, Pia Wurtzbach, and Catriona Gray made the experience feel more personal.

The collection also includes Hollywood stars like Timothée Chalamet and K-drama favorites Jung Hae-in and Lee Jong-suk. Being an indoor attraction, it felt like a perfect stop amid the busy December itinerary.

From the city skyline, the trip then shifted toward one of the most talkedabout attractions online: Ngong Ping 360. The crystal glass-bottom cable cars, which often go viral on social media, were just as impressive in person. Booking the crystal package in advance was especially helpful during the December rush, considering the attraction’s distance from the city.

For me, choosing the Crystal+ package made a big difference. Without it, returning could take up to an hour due to long queues—even on a weekday. Ngong Ping Village itself felt like a change of pace from the busy city. Designed to resemble a small town, it leads visitors to the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) and Po Lin Monastery, offering a quieter, more reflective side of Hong Kong that stood out during the peak season.

After days of moving between crowded attractions, visiting the M+ Museum, highly recommended by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, felt like a refreshing change. I firmly believe that museums are one of the best ways to understand a country’s culture, and M+ did not disappoint. One installation that stood out to me was Internal Line by Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota, part of

BARCELONA easily fills an itinerary, but just outside the city is an extraordinary place that should not be missed.

Rising dramatically beyond the city, Montserrat feels like another world, shaped as much by myth, faith, and spirituality as by wind and stone.

Montserrat means ‘serrated mountain’ in Catalan, a name that suits its jagged peaks. Legend says angels carved the rocks with a golden saw to make a throne for the Virgin Mary. Another story claims the Holy Grail is hidden somewhere in the mountains.

Montserrat has also inspired artists. Antoni Gaudí drew from its shapes and energy, which can be seen in the flowing lines of the Sagrada Família.

The Benedictine Monastery of Montserrat, one of Spain’s most important religious sites, perches high on the mountain. Montserrat also houses Our Lady of Montserrat, the patron saint of Catalonia, venerated by both Catholics and non-Catholics.

Montserrat is located about 50 kilometers northwest of Barcelona. The mountain can be reached by bus or car then by train or cable car. Many tours are available online, which we joined on this visit.

We met our group early at a bus station in Barcelona, where we took a bus to a small

the exhibition Dream Rooms: Environments by Women Artists 1950s–Now, as it shows the concept of The Red Thread of Fate. Experiencing this during December made me realize how museums offer meaningful experiences regardless of the time of year.

Of course, no trip to Hong Kong would be complete without a visit to Disneyland.

As someone who genuinely loves theme parks, this was a non-negotiable for me.

Visiting in December meant festive crowds and a celebratory atmosphere, especially since Hong Kong Disneyland is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Exclusive merchandise, special shows, and fireworks added to the experience, and booking tickets ahead helped make the day smoother, as lines for tickets can get busy.

One of my favorite parts of the park

train station. The rack railway carried us upward, revealing spectacular views as we gained height. Jagged rock formations soon surrounded us, while the Catalan countryside stretched out below.

Upon arrival, after a briefing from the tour guide, we were given time to explore on our own. I wandered into the souvenir shop to claim our free cookies and wine, then boarded the Sant Joan Funicular.

In five minutes, it carried us higher up the mountain to a breathtaking viewpoint. From there, we hiked along mist-covered paths. The air was cool, and fog curled gently around us, giving the landscape a quiet, dreamlike quality.

was The World of Frozen, a newly opened themed land that perfectly captures the charm of Arendelle. Seeing Anna and Elsa roam around made the experience feel even more immersive. Meanwhile, following the release of Zootopia 2, characters Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde now appear more often in parades and around the park, something that genuinely thrilled me as a fan. Even with the holiday crowds, Disneyland proved enjoyable for people of all ages. And then there’s Ocean Park, a theme park that rivals HK Disneyland in terms of scale and attractions. While it truly lives up to its name in terms of marine attractions like the Grand Aquarium as well as popular sea species like dolphins, sharks and stingrays, its appeal also extend to thrill rides like roller coasters and cable

cars as well as the awe-inspiring sight of giant pandas. Choosing between Ocean Park and HK Disneyland can be a tough dilemma but if you can find time for both theme parks, I highly recommend it. Visiting Hong Kong revealed to me why its appeal extends far beyond yearend holidays. Its mix of cultural sites, museums, scenic attractions, and theme parks makes it a destination for all seasons. With so much to see and experience, a four-day trip is hardly enough. Through proper planning and bookings, made easier with platforms like Trip.com— travelers can look beyond December and discover a place that remains vibrant and engaging in every season. Tourism & Entertainment editor Edwin P. Sallan also contributed to this story.

The descent brought a sudden change in mood. Heavy rain poured down. By the time we rejoined the rest of the group, we were drenched. Still soaked, we made our way toward the spiritual heart of Montserrat.

The Benedictine Monastery of Montserrat has stood here for nearly a thousand years. Around 70 monks live and pray within the complex. The monks also run a boys’ choir school devoted to sacred music, one of the oldest continuously operating choir schools in Europe.

In the monastery’s atrium lies a circular black-and-white marble design that has become a focal point for visitors. Many spiritual and New Age travelers believe this spot to be an energy vortex. The circle is thought to hold a concentration of heart chakra energy.

Visitors often stand barefoot at its center, arms outstretched, hoping to feel healing, balance, or clarity.

From there, we moved toward what many consider the soul of Montserrat, the statue of Our Lady of Montserrat, also known as The Black Madonna or La Moreneta. The 12th-century Romanesque wooden sculpture depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. Her dark color earned her the affectionate name, The Little Black One.

Legend tells of shepherd boys discovering the statue in a cave around the year 880, guided by mysterious lights and heavenly music. When church leaders attempted to bring her

down the mountain, the statue grew heavier with every step. This was taken as a sign that she wished to remain where she was, and the monastery was built on that spot. Over the centuries, pilgrims have attributed healings and miracles to her intercession. In 1881, Pope Leo XIII officially declared The Black Madonna the patron saint of Catalonia. She has remained a symbol of protection for the region

A10 Saturday, January 24, 2026

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Japan’s Takaichi dissolves parliament after 3 months in office, setting up snap election

By Mari Yamaguchi The Associated Press

TOKYO—Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved the lower house of Parliament on Friday, paving the way for a Feb. 8 snap election.

The move is an attempt to capitalize on her popularity to help governing party regain ground after major losses in recent years, but will delay parliamentary approval for a budget that aims at boosting a struggling economy and addressing soaring prices.

Elected in October as Japan’s

first female leader, Takaichi has been in office only three months, but she has seen strong approval ratings of about 70%.

Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party could still face some challenges as it reels from a series of scandals about corruption and the party’s past ties to the controver -

sial Unification Church. But it’s not clear if the new opposition Centrist Reform Alliance can attract moderate voters while opposition parties are still too splintered to a pose a serious threat to the LDP.

Takaichi is also seeing rising animosity with China since she made pro-Taiwan remarks. And US President Donald Trump wants her to spend more on weapons as Washington and Beijing pursue military superiority in the region.

The dissolution of the 465-member lower house paves the way for a 12-day campaign that officially starts Tuesday. When house speaker Fukushiro Nukaga declared the dissolution, the assembled parliamentarians stood up, shouted banzai—“long live”—three times and rushed out to prepare for the campaign.

Takaichi hopes to win majority

plan for an early

election aims to capitalize on her popularity to win a governing majority in the lower house, the more powerful of Japan’s two-chamber Parliament.

The scandal-tainted LDP and its coalition had a slim majority in the lower house after an election loss in 2024. The coalition lacks a majority in the upper house and relies on winning votes from opposition members to pass its agenda.

Opposition leaders criticized Takaichi for delaying passage of a budget needed to fund key economic measures.

“I believe that the only option is for the people, as sovereign citizens, to decide whether Sanae Takaichi should be prime minister,” she told a news conference Monday when announcing plans for the election. “I’m staking my career as prime minister” on it.

A hardline conservative,

Takaichi wants to highlight differences with her centrist predecessor Shigeru Ishiba.

Takaichi stresses that voters need to judge her fiscal spending moves, further military buildup and tougher immigration policies to make Japan “strong and prosperous.”

While an upbeat and decisive image has earned her strong approval ratings and fans of her personal style, the LDP is not popular as it recovers from a political funds scandal. Many traditional LDP voters have shifted to emerging far-right populist opposition parties, such as the anti-globalist Sanseito.

China, Trump and corruption scandals

MEANWHILE , Japan faces escalating tensions with China after Takaichi made remarks suggesting that Japan could become involved if China takes military action against Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing claims as its own. A furious China has increased economic and diplomatic retribution.

Takaichi wants to push further a military buildup and spending increases, while Trump has pressured Japan to spend more on defense.

Takaichi has a new right-wing coalition partner and faces a divided opposition TAKAICHI says she needs a mandate to push policies she’s agreed on with her new coalition partner, the right-wing Japan Innovation Party. They struck a deal

73 South Koreans repatriated from Cambodia being investigated for alleged online scams involvement

By Hyung-Jin Kim The Associated Press

SEOUL, South Korea—Dozens of South Koreans allegedly involved in online scams in Cambodia were returned to South Korea on Friday to face investigations in what was the largest group repatriation of Korean criminal suspects from abroad.

The 73 South Korean suspects allegedly scammed fellow Koreans out of 48.6 billion won ($33 million), according to a South Korean government statement.

Upon arrival in South Korea’s Incheon airport aboard a chartered plane, the suspects—65 men and eight women—were sent to police stations. Local TV footage showed the suspects, in handcuffs and wearing masks, being escorted by police officers and boarding buses.

They were among about 260 South Koreans detained in a crackdown in Cambodia in recent months.

“When it comes to crimes that harm our people, we’ll track down and arrest those involved to the very end and get them to face corresponding consequences,” senior police officer Yoo Seung Ryul told a televised briefing at the airport. Public outrage over scam centers

Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party re-elects General Secretary To Lam

By Aniruddha Ghosal The Associated Press

HANOI, Vietnam—Vietnam’s To Lam was reelected Friday as the general secretary of its ruling Communist Party.

The decision came at the conclusion of the National Party Congress, the country’s most important political conclave.

No announcement was made about whether he will also become president. If To Lam were to get both positions, he would be the country’s most powerful leader in decades, in a manner similar to that of Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The Congress was framed by Vietnam’s defining national question: whether the country can transform itself into a high-income economy by 2045. During the meeting, Vietnam set a target of average annual GDP growth of 10% or more from 2026 to 2030.

The gathering brought together nearly 1,600 delegates to define Vietnam’s political and economic direction through 2031. It also confirmed a slate of senior appointments, electing 19

members to the Politburo, the country’s top leadership body.

Beyond settling the question of who will lead Vietnam through 2031, the Congress will also determine how the country’s single-party system responds to world grown increasingly turbulent as China and the United States wrangle over trade and Washington under President Donald Trump challenges a longstanding global order.

Lam has overseen the most ambitious round of bureaucratic and economic reforms since the late 1980s, when Vietnam liberalized its economy. Under his leadership, the government has cut tens of thousands of publicsector jobs, redrawn administrative boundaries to speed decision-making, and initiated dozens of major infrastructure projects.

Lam spent decades in the Ministry of Public Security before becoming its minister in 2016. He led an anti-corruption campaign championed by his predecessor, Nguyen Phu Trong. During his rise, Vietnam’s Politburo lost six of its 18 members during an anti-graft campaign, including two former presidents and Vietnam’s parliamentary head.

in Southeast Asia flared in South Korea when a Korean student was found dead last summer after reportedly being forced to work at a scam compound in Cambodia. Authorities said at the time he died after being tortured and beaten, and South Korea sent a government delegation to Cambodia in October for talks on a joint response.

The suspects repatriated Friday includes a couple who allegedly operated a deepfake romance scam to dupe 12 billion won ($8.2 million) from about 100 people in fraudulent investment schemes.

South Korea has made various efforts to bring them back home, including more than 10 rounds of video meetings with Cambodian officials, the Justice Ministry said in a statement.

At the airport briefing, senior Foreign Ministry official Yoo Byung-seok expressed gratitude to the Cambodian government over Friday’s repatriation. He said South Korea hopes to continue close bilateral coordination until online scams targeting South Ko -

reans are eradicated in Cambodia. Cybercrime has flourished in Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia and Myanmar, as trafficked foreign nationals were employed to run romance

and cryptocurrency scams, often after being recruited with false job offers and then forced to work in conditions of nearslavery. According to estimates from the U.N. Office on Drugs

and Crime, scam victims worldwide lost between $18 billion and $37 billion in 2023.

In January, Cambodia said it had arrested and extradited to China a tycoon accused of running a huge online scam operation.

Since October, about 130 South Korean scam suspects from Cambodia as well as more than 20 such Korean suspects from Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines have been sent back home. After Friday’s repatriation, about 60 South Koreans will remain detained in Cambodia awaiting repatriation, according to police.

South Korean officials said in October that about 1,000 South Koreans were estimated to be in scam centers in Cambodia. Some are believed to be forced laborers.

On Thursday, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for stern responses to transnational cybercrimes that he said erodes mutual trust in society and triggers diplomatic disputes with other countries.

Hong Kong vigil organizer says she was seeking democracy, not end to Communist Party rule

By Kanis Leung The Associated Press

HONG KONG—A prominent activist who organized Hong Kong’s decades-old vigil commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen Square military crackdown on democracy protesters said Friday that her group’s demand for “ending one-party rule” was a call for democratization, not for an end to the Communist Party’s leadership in China.

Chow Hang-tung, a former leader of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, stated in court Friday during a trial brought under a national security law that virtually silenced dissent in the city.

She was charged with inciting subversion in September 2021 under the law Beijing imposed following massive anti-government protests in 2019. She was accused of inciting others to organize, plan or act through unlawful means with a view to subvert the state power.

Lee Cheuk-yan, another former group leader, also pleaded not guilty Thursday to the charge that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.

Dispute over meaning of ‘ending one-party rule’

THE prosecution has focused on “ending one-party rule,” one of the alliance’s core demands, by arguing the alliance’s call meant ending the Chinese Communist Party’s leadership, which was against the constitution. There was no legal means to achieve that, it said.

Chow, a barrister who is defending herself, countered the prosecution claim Friday while appealing to the court to admit an expert’s evidence, standing outside the courtroom dock while presenting her argument.

“The alliance’s position is not to end the Chinese Communist Party’s leadership, but to end one-party dictatorship,” said Chow, who smiled when supporters in the courtroom wished her well for her birthday on Saturday.

The court heard on Thursday that co-defendant Albert Ho said in 2018 that the call was not to eliminate the Chinese Communist Party and the party could maintain its ruling position through fair elections. Ho pleaded guilty Thursday, which could result in a reduced sentence.

Toll in Iran’s protest crackdown reaches 5,002 dead as Trump says US ‘armada’ approaching

By Jon Gambrell The Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—

The toll in Iran’s bloody crackdown on nationwide protests has reached at least 5,002 people killed, activists said Friday, warning many more were feared dead as the most comprehensive internet blackout in the country’s history crossed the two-week mark.

The challenge in getting information out of Iran persists due to authorities cutting off access to the internet on Jan. 8, even as tensions rise between the United States and Iran as an American aircraft carrier group moves closer to the Middle East—a force US President Donald Trump likened to an “armada” in comments to journalists late Thursday.

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency offered

the death toll, saying 4,716 were demonstrators, 203 were government-affiliated, 43 were children and 40 were civilians not taking part in the protests. It added that more than 26,800 people had been detained in a widening arrest campaign by authorities.

The group’s figures have been accurate in previous unrest in Iran and rely on a network of activists in Iran to verify deaths. That death toll exceeds that of any other

round of protest or unrest in Iran in decades, and recalls the chaos surrounding Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iran’s government offered its first death toll Wednesday, saying 3,117 people were killed. It added that 2,427 of the dead in the demonstrations that began Dec. 28 were civilians and security forces, with the rest being “terrorists.” Iran’s theocracy in the past has undercounted or not reported fatalities from unrest.

The Associated Press has been unable to independently assess the death toll, in part due to authorities cutting access to the internet and blocking international calls into the country. Iran also reportedly has limited journalists’ ability locally to report on the aftermath, instead repeatedly airing claims on state television that refer to demonstrators as “rioters” motivated by America and Israel, without offering evidence to support the allegation.

The new toll comes as tensions remain high over Trump laying down two red lines over the protests—the killing of peaceful demonstrators and Tehran conducting

mass executions. Iran’s attorney general and others have called some of those being held “mohareb”—or “enemies of God.” That charge carries the death penalty. It had been used along with others to carry out mass executions in 1988 that reportedly killed at least 5,000 people.

The US military meanwhile has moved more military assets

Putin meets Trump’s envoys as Kremlin insists Ukraine deal hinges on territory

By Kamila Hrabchuk & Kostya Manenkov The Associated Press

RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin discussed the settlement in Ukraine with US President Donald Trump’s envoys during marathon overnight talks, and the Kremlin insisted that the territorial issue needs to be resolved to reach a peace deal. The Kremlin meeting, which lasted past 3 a.m. Friday, came hours after Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sharply criticized his European allies Thursday for what he cast as their slow and fragmented response to Russia’s nearly four-year fullscale invasion that he said has left Ukraine at the mercy of Putin amid an ongoing US push for a peace settlement.

Kremlin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov, who participated in Putin’s meeting with Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, said “it was reaffirmed that reaching a long-term settlement can’t be expected without solving the territorial issue,” a reference to Moscow’s demand that Kyiv withdraws its troops from the areas in the east that Russia illegally annexed but never fully captured.

Zelenskyy said after meeting Thursday with Trump in Davos, Switzerland, that the future status of land in eastern Ukraine currently occupied by Russia is

unresolved but that peace proposals are “nearly ready.”

On a positive note, Ushakov told reporters that it was agreed that Russian, Ukrainian and US officials will hold talks on security issues related to a prospective peace deal in the United Arab Emirates on Friday.

Ushakov noted that Trump’s envoys informed Putin about Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy, as well as earlier discussions they had with Ukrainian and European officials. The Kremlin talks that he described as “frank, constructive” and “fruitful” began when it was just before midnight in Moscow and lasted nearly four hours. Witkoff and Kushner were joined by Josh Gruenbaum, the

head of the Federal Acquisition Service who serves as a senior adviser on Trump’s Board of Peace that Russia has been invited to join. While Russia is considering the invitation, Putin reaffirmed his offer to send $1 billion to the board from Russian assets frozen in the US to help fund rebuilding Gaza.

Asked about Putin’s proposal to use Russia’s frozen assets for the contribution to the Board of Peace, Trump said he thought it was fine. “If he’s using his money, that’s great,” he said

Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy ZELENSKYY met with Trump behind closed doors for about an hour at the World Economic Forum in Davos, describing the meeting as “productive and meaningful.”

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as he flew back to Washington from Davos, Trump said his meeting with Zelenskyy went well, adding that both Putin and Zelenskyy want to reach a deal and that “everyone’s making concessions” to try to end the war.

He said the sticking points in talks remain the same as they’ve been during talks held during the past six or seven months, noting “boundaries” was a key issue. “The main hold-up is the same things that’s been holding it up for the last year,” he said.

Russia’s bigger army has managed to capture about 20% of Ukraine since hostilities began in 2014 and its full-scale invasion of 2022. But the battlefield gains along the roughly 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line have been costly for Moscow, and the Russian economy is feeling the consequences of the war and international sanctions.

Ukraine is short of money and, despite significantly boosting its own arms manufacturing, still needs Western weaponry. It is also short-handed on the front line. Its defense minister last week reported some 200,000 troop desertions, and draft-dodging by about 2 million Ukrainians.

Zelenskyy blasts European allies ADDRESSING the World Economic Forum after meeting with Trump, Zelenskyy listed a litany of grievances and criticisms of Europe.

toward the Mideast, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and associated warships traveling with it from the South China Sea.

A US Navy official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military movements, said Thursday that the Lincoln strike group is currently in the Indian Ocean.

Trump said Thursday aboard Air Force One that the US is moving the ships toward Iran “just in case” he wants to take action.

“We have a massive fleet heading in that direction and maybe we won’t have to use it,” Trump said.

Trump also mentioned the multiple rounds of talks American officials had with Iran over its nuclear program prior to Israel launching a 12-day war against the Islamic Republic in June, which saw US warplanes bomb Iranian nuclear sites. He threatened Iran with military action that would make earlier US strikes against its uranium enrichment sites “look like peanuts.”

“They should have made a deal before we hit them,” Trump added.

The United Kingdom’s Defense Ministry separately said its joint Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet squadron with Qatar, 12 Squadron, “deployed to the (Persian) Gulf for defensive purposes noting regional tensions.”

The Associated Press writer Konstantin Toropin in Washington contributed to this report.

Zelenskyy says his repeated warnings to Europe feel like ‘Groundhog Day’

By Kamila Hrabchuk & Kostya Manenkov The Associated Press

DAVOS, Switzerland—Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy blasted his European allies Thursday for what he portrayed as the continent’s slow, fragmented and inadequate response to Russia’s invasion nearly four years ago and its continued international aggression.

Addressing the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Zelenskyy listed a litany of grievances and criticisms of Europe that he said have left Ukraine at the mercy of Russian President Vladimir Putin amid an ongoing US push for a peace settlement.

“Europe looks lost,” Zelenskyy said in his speech, urging the continent to become a global force. He contrasted Europe’s response with Washington’s bold steps in Venezuela and Iran.

The former comic actor referred to the movie “Groundhog Day,” in which the main character must relive the same day over and over again.

“Just last year, here in Davos, I ended my speech with the words: Europe needs to know how to defend itself. A year has passed. And nothing has changed. We are still in a situation where I must say the same words again,” Zelenskyy said. He said that Ukrainians, too, seem caught in that reality in the war, “repeating the same thing for weeks, months and, of course, for years. And yet that is exactly how we live now. It’s our life.”

European countries, which see their own future defense at stake in the war on its eastern flank, have provided financial, military and humanitarian support for Kyiv, but not all members of the 27-nation European Union are helping. Ukraine also has been frustrated by political disagreements within Europe over how to deal with Russia, as well as

the bloc’s at times slow-moving responses.

A meeting with Trump HIS speech came after he met behind closed doors for about an hour in Davos with US President Donald Trump, who described the talks as “very good.” Zelenskyy called them “productive and meaningful.” Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as he flew back to Washington from Davos, Trump said his meeting with Zelenskyy went well, adding that the Ukrainian president told him he wants to make a deal to end the war.

“I had a good meeting, but I’ve had numerous good meetings with President Zelenskyy and it doesn’t seem to happen,” he said.

Trump noted that both Putin and Zelenskyy want to reach a deal and that “everyone’s making concessions” to try to end the war. He said the sticking points in talks remain the same as they’ve been during talks held during the past six or seven months, noting “boundaries” was a key issue. “The main hold-up is the same things that’s been holding it up for the last year,” he said.

Trump said he and Zelenskyy talked about how Ukrainians were surviving the cold winter without heat.

“It’s really tough for the people of Ukraine,” Trump said, noting that it was “amazing” how residents have been able to persevere through the winter facing relentless Russian strikes. “It’s no way to live,” he said.

Russia’s bigger army has managed to capture about 20% of Ukraine since hostilities began in 2014 and its full-scale invasion of 2022. But the battlefield gains along the roughly 1,000-kilometer (600mile) front line have been costly for Moscow, and the Russian economy is feeling the consequences of the war and international sanctions.

Eternal Plans inaugurates new office in Biñan City

TERNAL Plans Inc.

Eformally inaugurated and blessed its new office in Biñan City, Laguna on January 8, 2026, marking another milestone in the company’s commitment to bring its services closer to its planholders in the province.

The new office is located at the 3rd Floor of Simreys Commercial Building, National Highway, barangay San Antonio, Biñan City, Laguna, a strategic and accessible location aimed at better serving the growing needs of the Laguna market.

The inauguration and blessing were officiated by Rev. Fr. Rodolfo C. Carabuena, parish priest of Sta. Rosa de Lima Parish, who led the rites and offered prayers for the success of the office and for the people it will serve.

The event was graced by local government officials, including Liza L. Cardeño, Biñan City councilor; Michael “Moro” B. Gonzales, barangay chairman of San Antonio, Biñan City; and Jimmy S. Redondo, barangay Kagawad of San Antonio, Biñan City.

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lead, and other heavy metals.

“Our bodies were engineered to eat real food, not manufactured in factory food,” he added.

Marvin Tiu Lim, chief growth and development officer of Mega Prime Foods Inc., said the certification has increased global recognition for the brand. He noted the challenge now is encouraging more Filipinos to include sardines in their diet as a healthy alternative to processed foods.

“You can eat sardines, it can help. But then, you can never replace the standard milk and

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Director Kenneth Lee and President Kimberly Lee. EuroXtreme Circus continues a long-standing entertainment legacy inspired by Kenneth Lee’s late father, Paul L. B. Lee, who brought the Royal London Circus to tour the Philippines more than three decades ago. With a mission to make worldclass entertainment accessible, the team remains committed to

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HR655 aims to mobilize the House to look into technical complexities, limited manpower, insufficient funding, and subpar coordination among government agencies which have led to substantial delays and backlogs in the processing of ancestral domain recognition.

“In the 27 years since Ipra took effect, our brothers and sisters from indigenous communities have suffered through delayed issuances of Certificates of Ancestral Domain Title [CADTs] and Certificates of Ancestral Land Title [CALTs],” Oducado said.

“This has negatively affected their right to express or withhold free, prior, and informed consent [Fpic] in activities inside their native lands.”

Their presence underscored the strong partnership between Eternal Plans and the local community.

Present from Eternal Plans Inc. were its President and Chief Operating Officer Elmer M. Lorica, Senior Assistant Vice President for Sales Rolando B. Bongalon, EPI Biñan Branch Manager Elisa V. Beltran, Area Manager Gemma Gonzales and Training Manager Jerry D. Barrantes.

The opening of the new Biñan office reflects Eternal Plans’ continuing mission to provide accessible, reliable, and compassionate service, particularly for its sales associates and planholders across Laguna. With this new location, the company aims to further strengthen its presence in the region while ensuring more convenient and efficient client support.

Eternal Plans is part of the ALC Group of Companies, founded by the late Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, and is currently chaired by D. Edgard A. Cabangon.

vitamins that you really need,” he clarified, emphasizing the importance of public awareness that sardines are a healthy option and that not all canned foods are unhealthy.

Lim added that the company is expanding into international markets, including the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Azerbaijan, Armenia, other Central Asian countries, and European markets. He explained that marketing strategies are being tailored to local preferences in each region. Mega Sardines currently produces over three million cans per day to meet both domestic and international demand.

bringing international-caliber productions to communities beyond major urban centers. Following successful tours across Mindanao and the Visayas, EuroXtreme Circus now brings its signature extreme spectacle to Pampanga, positioning the show as a major live entertainment highlight for the region. Designed for families, thrill-seekers, and live show enthusiasts, the production promises an unforgettable shared experience filled with excitement, skill, and awe-inspiring moments.

He said procedural irregularities, inadequate disclosure of project impacts, exclusion of traditional leaders, as well as corruption and coercion have led to indigenous peoples being deprived of their right to self-determination in relation to large-scale development projects, specifically mining and energy.

The resolution also aims to investigate alleged irregularities and other hindrances to the implementation of the Ipra, including conflicts with other existing laws such as the National Integrated Protected Areas System (Nipas) Law.

“The findings of these inquiries shall help us amend and revise provisions of the Ipra, especially as regards to Fpic processes, ensuring greater protection, transparency and accountability, and coordination among agencies of the government,” Oducado also said.

AFP to press campaign against terrorism, extremism on all fronts

WITH the conviction by the Regional Trial Court in Tacloban of two militant activists for terrorism financing, the Armed Forces (AFP) on Friday reiterated its commitment to protect Filipinos against all forms of terrorism and violent extremism.

The AFP spokesperson, Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, in a message to reporters, said that they will be doing this while

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in October to pursue goals that include a stronger military, continuing male-only imperial succession, and accelerating the reactivation of offline nuclear reactors.

Takaichi struck a deal with the JIP after the LDP’s long-time ally Komeito, a Buddhist-backed centrist party, left the ruling bloc over her ideological views and reluctance to pursue anti-corruption measures. With the new partner’s help, she secured just enough votes to become prime minister.

Komeito turned to the main

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Calling to build ‘a democratic China’ FO r 30 years, the Hong Kong Alliance organized the only largescale public commemoration of the crackdown on the 1989 prodemocracy protests within Chi -

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European countries, which see their own future defense at stake in the war on its eastern flank, have provided financial, military and humanitarian support for Kyiv, but not all members of the 27-nation European Union are helping. Ukraine also has been frustrated by political disagreements within Europe over how to deal with Russia, as well as the bloc’s at times slow-moving responses.

“Europe looks lost,” Zelenskyy said in his speech, urging the continent to become a global force.

Zelenskyy. . .

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Ukraine is short of money and, despite significantly boosting its own arms manufacturing, still needs Western weaponry. It is also short-handed on the front line. Its defense minister last week reported some 200,000 troop desertions and draft-dodging by about 2 million Ukrainians.

Zelenskyy is also striving to keep the world’s attention focused on Ukraine despite other conflicts.

Zelenskyy cites inaction on key decisions

HE chided Europe for being slow to act on key decisions, spending too little on defense, failing to stop Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers that are breaking international sanctions, and balking at using its

upholding human rights and due process.

“We will continue to support law enforcement agencies in build -

liberal-leaning opposition, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, to form the Centrist Reform Alliance just in time for the election.

“Now is our chance to start the centrist movement,” said Yoshihiko Noda, a former prime minister and leader of the Constitutional Democrats.

He said the new alliance seeks to achieve a diverse, gender equal and inclusive society with “people-first politics,” speaking at joint news conference with co-leader Tetsuo Saito, head of Komeito.

As divisions and confrontations spread globally and economic disparity widens at home, the new

na. The vigil in Hong Kong drew tens of thousands each year to remember the victims with a sea of candles until authorities banned the event during the Covid-19 pandemic. The alliance also called for “building a democratic China.” The group voted to disband in September 2021 after its leaders were prosecuted under the security law, which Beijing deemed

He contrasted Europe’s response with Washington’s bold steps in Venezuela and Iran.

The former comic actor referred to the movie “Groundhog Day,” in which the main character must relive the same day over and over again.

“Just last year, here in Davos, I ended my speech with the words: Europe needs to know how to defend itself. A year has passed. And nothing has changed. We are still in a situation where I must say the same words again,” Zelenskyy said.

He chided Europe for being slow to act on key decisions, spending too little on defense, failing to stop Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tank-

frozen assets in Europe to finance Ukraine, among other things.

Europe, he said, “still feels more like a geography, history, a tradition, not a real political force, not a great power.”

“Some Europeans are really strong, it’s true, but many say we must stand strong, and they always want someone else to tell them how long they need to stand strong, preferably until the next election,” he said.

The Trump administration is pushing for a peace settlement, with its envoys shuttling between Kyiv and Moscow in a flurry of negotiations that some worry could force Ukraine into an unfavorable deal.

A meeting in Moscow

TRUMP’S special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner arrived in Moscow late

ing cases based on evidence and in full compliance with the law,” she added.

Likewise, Padilla said said the AFP acknowledged the decision of Branch 45 of the RTC in Tacloban City convicting Frenchie Mae Cumpio and Marielle Domequil for violations of Republic Act 10168, the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.

She said the AFP respects the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.

Padilla said that this conviction demonstrates that the Philippine justice system functions to address threats to national security

group is promising a “realistic” security policy and efforts to achieve a nuclear weapons-free world.

Opposition groups in Japan are seen as too splintered to win an election, and so far, polling for the alliance is not promising. But Komeito’s ability to turn out votes from the Soka Gakkai sect makes it a force to be reckoned with.

Takaichi promises results on economy, defense and conservative values TAKAICHI is focusing on the economy, looking to attract voters with measures to address rising prices and stagnant wages, as well as support for

necessary for the city’s stability following the protests.

After the pandemic, the former vigil site was occupied instead by a carnival organized by pro-Beijing groups on June 4, the crackdown’s anniversary.

through proper legal processes.

“We recognize that the court acquitted both individuals of charges related to illegal possession of firearms and explosives, while finding sufficient evidence to convict them of terrorism financing,” she said.

Padilla added that this ruling underscores the importance of allowing judicial institutions to examine evidence and render decisions based on the merits of each case.

“As this case may be subject to appeal, we defer further comment on the specifics and respect the ongoing judicial process,” Padilla also said. Rex Anthony Naval with PNA

low-income households.

But the security hawk has also pledged to revise security and defense policies by December to further strengthen the military, and to eliminate arms export restrictions to allow more sales and develop the Japanese defense industry. Her party is also vowing tougher immigration rules and restrictions on foreigners living in Japan to address growing anti-foreign sentiment. Earlier this week, the LDP proposed new immigration policies including tougher requirements for foreign property owners and a cap on the number of foreign residents in Japan.

Observers say the disappearance of the symbolic spectacle was an indicator of the decline in freedoms in the former British colony, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997 and is now administered as a “special administrative region.” Despite a degree of autonomy signified by the designation, Beijing has increasingly made its presence known in the way it oversees the territory, while Hong Kong’s government said its law enforcement actions were evidence-based and strictly in accordance with the law.

ers that are breaking international sanctions, and balking at using its frozen assets in Europe to finance Ukraine, among other things.

More talks in the UAE

ZELENSKYY said two days of trilateral meetings involving the US, Ukraine and Russia are due to begin Friday in the United Arab Emirates.

“Russians have to be ready for compromises because, you know, everybody has to be ready, not only Ukraine, and this is important for us,” he said.

Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, confirmed that a Russian delegation will take part in Friday’s meeting in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi.

Thursday and sat for talks with Putin for more than 3 hours, according to the Kremlin.

One major issue remains to be resolved in negotiations, Witkoff said at Davos, without saying what it was. Zelenskyy said the future status of land in eastern Ukraine currently occupied by Russia is unresolved but that peace proposals are “nearly ready.”

Postwar security guarantees, should a deal be reached, are agreed between the US and Ukraine, although they would require each country’s ratification, he said.

Zelenskyy said two days of trilateral meetings involving the US, Ukraine and Russia are due to begin Friday in the United Arab Emirates.

“Russians have to be ready for compromises because, you know, everybody has to be ready, not only Ukraine, and this is important for

He added that during the Kremlin meeting the US voiced hope that it will “open prospects for advancing on the entire range of issues linked to ending the conflict and reaching a peaceful settlement.” Ushakov said that the Russian delegation will be led by the chief of military intelligence, Adm. Igor Kostyukov. He added that Putin’s envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, will hold separate talks on economic issues with Witkoff in Abu Dhabi.

Hrabchuk reported from Kyiv, Ukraine and Manenkov from Davos, Switzerland. Josh Boak on Air Force One, Meg Kinnard in Houston and Ali Swenson from Washington contributed to this report.

us,” he said.

Trump and Zelenskyy have had a fraught relationship, and the American president has at times also rebuked Putin.

Zelenskyy said he thanked Trump for providing US-made Patriot air defense systems that can help stop Russian missiles that are repeatedly hitting Ukraine’s power grid, causing hardship for civilians denied light, heating and running water. He said he asked Trump for more of them.

After Trump cut support for Ukraine, other NATO countries began buying weapons from the US to donate to Kyiv under a special financial arrangement.

Hrabchuk reported from Kyiv, Ukraine. Josh Boak on Air Force One, Meg Kinnard in Houston and Ali Swenson from Washington contributed to this report.

‘Otom Bomb’ strikes anew in para games

ANGEL OTOM plucked two more gold medals to highlight the Philippine campaign on the third day of the Thailand 13th ASEAN Para Games at the 80th Birthday Aquatics Center on Friday in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The 22-year-old Otom broke the women’s 100-meter backstroke S4-S5 record with her time of one minute and 43.87 seconds for her third gold medal in the competition for differently abled bodies with the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Paralympic Committee supporting the national delegation. She broke the 18-year-old record  of 2:33.66 set by local bet Junkum Thatananatch in the

PHL athletes gear up for Sanya as Asian Beach Games returns

TThe games—hosted by the popular resort city situated in south China’s Hainan province— programmed 15 disciplines with a total of 63 gold medals in 14 sports set from April 22 to 30.

“It’s not only all about sports but also promoting the host city,” said POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino. “We’ve been advocating already on sports tourism that’s why the POC and the PSC are encouraging our country’s very own hosting of international competitions.” Tolentino said the POC is fielding 180 athletes who will compete in 3x3 basketball, open water swimming and water polo, aquathlon, beach athletics, beach handball, beach kabaddi, beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach wrestling, dragon boat, jiu-jitsu, sailing, sport climbing and teqball in Sanya. Sanya indicated its preparedness to host the sixth edition of the games—last hosted by Danang in Vietnam in 2016—through the World Press Briefing and World Broadcasters Meeting earlier this week.

Journalists representing traditional and new media from Asia and Southeast Asia as well as from Europe

the proposed

of the

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2008 games also in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The University of the Philippines student grabbed another gold medal in the women’s 200m freestyle S5 event with a clocking of 3:44.49.

Otom said she used the pain of her debut in the 2024 Paris Paralympics as lessons in her recent swims—she made the finals of the 50m backstroke S5 and 50m butterfly S5 in Paris but finished sixth and fifth place, respectively.

“From Paris, I just had to many disappointments and everything opened up for me,” said Otom, who already has four

medals and one silver medal in Thailand. “They were lessons learned for me to keep fighting.” She added: “There are times that you feel that you won’t make it, but you just need to trust

MELBOURNE, Australia— Luxury brands have been getting airtime at the Australian Open as Aryna Sabalenka and Victoria Mboko advanced to the fourth round.

When the top-ranked player in women’s tennis meets one of the sport’s rising teenage stars, though, it’ll be all about the business of tennis.

No. 1 Sabalenka edged Anastasia Potapova, 7-6 (4), 7-6 (7), and 19-yearold Mboko ousted 14th-seeded Clara Tauson, 7-6 (5), 5-7, 6-3, to advance to the Round of 16.

Sabalenka  has won the Australian Open twice and reached the final here last year. She has also won two US Open titles.

Mboko is making her Australian Open debut at Melbourne Park.

There’s been a bigger focus on fashion than usual at the tournament after Naomi Osaka’s dramatic walkon for her first-round match.

So both had to field questions about endorsement deals timed to coincide with the year’s first major— Sabalenka with Gucci ; Mboko with Rolex—but the main focus Friday was, more pertinently, on a match-up between two players of vastly different experience.

“First of all, I never actually talked to her, never had chance to hit, to practice with her. I’ve only seen

her outside,” Sabalenka said. “I was watching some matches. Yeah, she’s a great player. She’s a fighter. She’s playing really good, aggressive tennis.”

Sabalenka is playing at the Australian Open for the eighth time, has won 22 titles on tour and earned more than $45 million in prize money in her career.

She was long considered among the brightest prospects in the sport but had to overcome nerves and problems with her serve and it wasn’t until her fourth trip to the Australian Open that she advanced to the second week.

“I feel like maybe for me, it would be really tough to handle the success at young age,” Sabalenka said. “But I feel like now seeing these girls, so like young age achieving so much, playing such a great tennis, being really mature, it’s incredible. I feel like they mature much faster than I did.”

Mboko acknowledged it’ll be a huge step up, on and off the court. It’s her fourth major and her first time into the Round of 16—she has won two Women’s Tennis Association titles, her first last year as an 18-year-old wild card in Montreal. AP

MIGUEL LAGAC  led the charge in the Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala (PPS-PEPP) seasonopening Arcillas National Juniors Tennis Championships at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex and Zaballa 1 courts in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Fresh from a pair of stirring back-toback title sweeps, the fast-rising Cebuano has emerged as the player to beat in the Group 2 tournament, sponsored by Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas and sanctioned by the Philippine Tennis Association and the Universal Tennis Rating. Lagac enters the tournament, which got under way Friday, brimming with confidence and momentum after asserting dominance in both the boys’ 16- and 18-and-under singles divisions. He first ruled the MAC’s Crank It tournament in Parañaque City, then replicated the feat in the recent Zopiya Morales tournament in Pampanga, where he also pocketed the doubles crown. A deep and talented field awaits Lagac in the boys’ 16-and-under category that features Rafa

and