BusinessMirror May 23, 2026

‘TIGHTEN NOW: SUPPLY SHOCK IS SPREADING’

By Andrea E. San Juan

RUNAWAY

inflation is already under way, an analyst warned.

Jonathan L. Ravelas, economist and senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co., explained to the BusinessMirror how monetary authorities, through “front-loaded” tightening, should control a supply shock which is already spreading into food, fertilizer, and broader prices.

“Even if the impact [of rate hikes] isn’t immediate, frontloaded tightening is about staying credible and avoiding a much bigger problem down the line—because once inflation expectations become entrenched, it’s far more costly to bring them back under control,” Ravelas also told this newspaper.

By Samuel P. Medenilla & Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

TO help stabilize inflation, President Ferdinand Marcos has ordered a significant hike in the minimum access volume (MAV) for pork meat this year allowing the increased importation of the food commodity.

Under Executive Order (EO) No. 116, the chief executive raised the MAV of pork meat this year from 54,210 metric tons (MT) to 204,210 MT. This was based on the recommendation of the MAV Management Committee (MMC) to increase the MAV for pork by 150,000 MT annually for a period of two years to keep the food com-

MORE than half of Filipino adults now own a formal financial account, the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed. According to SWS, account ownership among adults aged 18 and above rose to 58 percent in the first quarter of 2026, from 48 percent as of the first quarter survey of SWS in 2025. A formal financial account is defined as any of the following: e-money account, bank account, account with a microfinance NGO, account with a cooperative, and account with a Non-Stock Savings and Loan Association.

In a statement on Friday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) cited the SWS survey, saying the increase in account ownership was observed across all geographic areas, income groups, and education levels.

Among adults, 43 percent reported owning an e-money account. Meanwhile, 21 percent said they have a bank account.

Among those without a financial account, the most common barriers cited were lack of money, unemployment, and limited knowledge of how to open an account, the central bank noted.

Moving forward, BSP Gov-

modity affordable because of the prevailing “supply constraints and price pressures.” The Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) reported inflation accelerated to 7.2 percent in April, which it said was largely driven by increases in the prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages. Marcos directed the MMC to ensure the fair allocation of the MAV adjustments for pork to the following sectors: 30,000 MT for processors, and 120,000 MT for the Food Terminal Inc. or the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Program. MMC was ordered to issue the implementation guidelines for EO 116 within 30 days from its effectivity after it is published in the

Banks may now set

aside

capital to back lending amid growing risks

versal and commercial banks (U/ KBs), their subsidiaries and quasibanks, and digital banks.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. explained that this reform will strengthen the country’s financial stability as it enables banks to set aside capital that can be released in “bad times” to keep credit flowing to households and firms.

Remolona added: “The Philippines joins countries that have built releasable buffers ahead of potential crises. This enhances our ability to respond swiftly to shocks without increasing the overall capital burden on banks.”

According to the central bank, the PN-CCyB does not increase overall capital requirements.

Instead, it reallocates part of banks’ existing Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1), the high-quality capital that banks maintain as a cushion against risks, into a releasable buffer.

Under current rules, banks must maintain CET1 of at least 6 percent of risk-weighted assets (RWA).

With the PN-CCyB, 1.5 percent of CET1 will be designated as a releasable buffer, leaving a minimum CET1 requirement of 4.5 percent of RWA—consistent with Basel III standards that aim to make banks more resilient.

All other capital requirements, including the minimum Tier 1 ra-

tio and the Capital Adequacy Ratio, remain unchanged.

According to BSP, Tier 1 capital ratio measures a bank’s core capital—such as common equity and disclosed reserves—relative to its risk-weighted assets.

“It indicates a bank’s ability to absorb losses while continuing operations, using its highest-quality and most loss-absorbing capital,” added BSP.

The capital adequacy ratio or CAR measures a bank’s total qualifying capital—both Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital—relative to its riskweighted assets.

“It reflects the bank’s capacity to withstand financial shocks and protect depositors, in line with BSP and international prudential standards,” the central bank explained.

The reform is “timely” amid heightened global risks and uncertainties arising from geopolitical tensions, the BSP said.

“The banking system is wellpositioned to adopt the measure, with a CET1 ratio of 15.06 percent as of end-December 2025, well above regulatory requirements,” the central bank also noted.

According to the BSP, the new rule under BSP Circular No. 1235, Series of 2026, will be implemented in phases.

U/KBs, their subsidiaries and quasi-banks are given one year from effectivity to comply, while digital banks are given two years.

Andrea E. San Juan

PBBM orders hike in pork meat MAV; solons worried

Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

The new issuance was signed by Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto on May 19, 2026, but was only uploaded in the Official Gazette website on Thursday.

Marcos said the guidelines should ensure that the allocation for the Food Terminal Inc. or the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Program will “augment domestic supply, stabilize market prices, and promote consumer welfare.”

House sets urgent briefing on EO MEANWHILE , citing concerns over its possible long-term effects on local hog raisers and food security, the House of Representatives will hold an urgent briefing on EO 116 to ensure a balanced approach between stabilizing prices and protecting the local hog industry.

House Agriculture and Food Committee Chairman Mark Enverga of Quezon acknowledged the government’s immediate action to address rising pork prices and supply shortages caused by the continuing impact of African swine fever (ASF) on domestic production.

“At the same time, we believe it is important to carefully study the broader implications of Executive Order No. 116 on the local hog industry, especially its possi -

“Our goal is to ensure a balanced approach—one that protects consumers from high prices but also supports the recovery and long-term stability of the local livestock sector.”—House Agriculture and Food Committee Chairman Mark Enverga of Quezon

ble long-term impact on Filipino hog raisers, local production and food security,” he told the BusinessMirror Republic Act No. 8178, or the Agricultural Tariffication Act, as amended, allows the President to propose adjustments to the minimum access volume (MAV) to Congress in cases of supply shortages or unusual price increases. The proposal is considered approved if Congress does not act on it within 15 days from receipt.

Under EO 116, the MAV for pork imports was raised from 54,210 metric tons (MT) to 204,210 MT—a move critics warn could further disadvantage struggling local producers still reeling from ASF.

The Palace defended the order as a necessary intervention to address a “substantial supply short-

fall” and persistently high pork prices, citing the continued depletion of the country’s swine inventory due to ASF.

However, Enverga signaled that Congress would not take the policy at face value.

“As chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, we will call for an urgent briefing with concerned government agencies and stakeholders so we can review the available data, supply situation, and other relevant information,” he said.

“Our goal is to ensure a balanced approach—one that protects consumers from high prices but also supports the recovery and long-term stability of the local livestock sector,” Enverga said.

The order directs the MAV Management Committee (MMC) to oversee the allocation of imported pork, including 30,000 MT for processors and 120,000 MT for distribution through the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Program.

Rationale for issuing EO

THE President justified issuing EO No. 116 since Congress has yet to act on the proposed increase in MAV for pork.

Republic Act 8178 or the Agricultural Tariffication Act allowed the President to adjust quantitative restrictions in agricultural products if Congress fails to act after 15 days from receipt of the proposed MAV adjustments.

Marcos said there was an urgent need to address the existing supply gap in pork as incidents of

ASF continue to limit the country’s production of the food commodity resulting in “substantial supply shortfall.”

As of May 8, 2026, the DA reported there were still active ASF incidents in five regions, in the provinces of Kalinga, Ifugao, Quezon, Camarines Sur, Southern Leyte, and Surigao del Sur. The supply constraints were worsened by the Middle East crisis, which disrupted global supply chains and resulted in higher pump prices, prompting the President to place the country under a state of national energy emergency.

EO authorized the government to implement measures to mitigate rising prices of essential goods amid the Middle East crisis, which began February 28 when the US and Israel attacked Iran, which retaliated with drone and missile attacks on key energy hubs in the region.

Since the war broke out, the price of pork has increased.

Based on the latest price monitoring data of DA in major markets in Metro Manila, the prevailing price of pork belly (liempo), a popular fare among Filipinos, was P420 per kilogram on May 20, 2026. The prevailing price of the food commodity has increased in the same period in April (P420 per kg); March (P360 per kg), and February (P370 per kg). There was also a similar increase in the prevailing price of pork ham, which was at P360 per kg as of last Wednesday from P350 per kg on 20 February 2026.

‘TIGHTEN NOW: SUPPLY SHOCK IS SPREADING’

When asked if he was referring to “runaway inflation” when inflation expectations become “entrenched,” the economist replied: “It’s already under way.”

He said this against the backdrop of a supply shock “that’s no longer isolated,” as the shock has started spreading into food, fertilizer and broader prices, which risks becoming more persistent.

“So the goal isn’t just to cool demand later, but to anchor expectations today, support the peso, and prevent second-round effects like wage and price spirals,” Ravelas pointed out further.

This came after Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. signaled that monetary authorities would now have to react “aggressively” after the supply shock fed into the prices of rice and fertilizer faster than they expected.

“The inflation side is a little bit tricky. As you know, we’re facing a big supply shock. Ordinarily, a supply shock, you would look through it because it would go away and then you’re back to where you are,” Remolona said in an interview with OneNews.

However, the central bank governor labeled the current shock as: “A big and persistent supply shock.”

“So we have to react, and we have to react aggressively, I think, in this kind of situation. That’s why we raised rates early. It didn’t seem to be enough, but we’re trying to stay ahead of the curve,” added Remolona.

The central bank chief admitted that what seems to have surprised the monetary authorities is the effect of that supply shock on other items in the price index.

“So it seems to have already affected the price of fertilizer, the

“We want to convey the message that we’re trying to be proactive… and that we’re serious about inflation.”— Eli M. Remolona Jr., Governor, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

price of rice. Those things usually take time, but this time it was fairly quick,” added Remolona.

As the inflation print for May is scheduled to be released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on June 5—only two weeks away from the scheduled Monetary Board meeting on June 18—Remolona said: “It’s a toss-up whether we do an off-cycle or just wait for the regular meeting which is not that far anyway.”

While he opened up the possibility of doing another inter-meet policy meeting, the central bank chief kept mum on the size of the interest rate hike to be delivered.

“I think whatever we do, we want to convey the message that we’re trying to be proactive. We’re trying to stay ahead of the curve and that we’re serious about inflation,” added Remolona.

The Monetary Board raised the Target Reverse Repurchase (RRP) Rate by 25 basis points to 4.5 percent in its April 23 meeting after holding an off-cycle meeting to maintain the policy rate at 4.25 percent on March 26.

Prior to the off-cycle meeting in March, the central bank cut rates nine times from August 2024

to February 19, 2026, for a total 225 basis points, thus reducing the policy rate from 6.50 percent to 4.25 percent.

Monetary policy lag effect WHEN asked how long before the impact of rate hikes on tamer inflation will be felt in the economy, Ravelas explained to this newspaper that monetary policy works “with lag—typically 6 to 12 months before it meaningfully dents inflation.”

“And up to 18 months for the full effect—but the BSP has to act aggressively now because expectations move much faster than actual prices,” Ravelas also pointed out. The country’s inflation rate climbed to 7.2 percent in April, its highest level in over three years, the PSA reported on May 5.

and the Paleng-QR Ph Plus Program. This program also supports account ownership through on-site account opening activities.

The SWS survey complements the recent BSP 2025 survey, which also showed gains in the financial literacy of Filipinos.

The SWS survey included “rider questions” from the BSP.

“These provide valuable insights into public awareness and sentiment on economic and financial issues,” the central bank said.

BSP said the results enable the central bank to “refine” its education and communication initiatives while tracking the “effectiveness” of key programs over time. Andrea E. San Juan

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Bam: DTI plan to mandate permits for all business ads to hurt MSMEs

By Butch Fernandez

LBy Mary Jade Jadormio

IMITED access to labor-related data and secrecy in trade negotiations are undermining worker rights and accountability, labor groups said as they pushed for a stronger Freedom of Information (FOI) law.

Speaking at the “FOI Now: Making Democracy Work for Filipinos Multi Stakeholder” forum, union leaders said workers are often denied access to crucial information involving wages, workplace conditions, labor inspections and public infrastructure projects despite these directly affecting employees and communities.

Josua Mata, secretary general of Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (SENTRO), said access to information should be treated as a labor rights issue rather than merely a governance concern.

“For the trade union movement, the fight for information is actually a struggle for power,” Mata said.

He said workers remain disadvantaged when government agencies and private firms withhold information that could help unions challenge labor violations and unsafe working conditions.

Mata also raised concerns over the ongoing free trade agreement negotiations between the Philippines and the European Union, warning that certain digital trade provisions could further restrict public access to information and government oversight over technology platforms.

He said many platform workers, including delivery riders, still do not fully understand how their wages are computed by digital platforms.

“We organize riders who do not even know how they are being paid per delivery,” Mata said. “If workers question these systems or attempt to organize, some

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has reported a 170-percent jump in first-quarter net income, driven by equity valuation gains and favorable foreign exchange movements in its investment income.

Net income for the first quarter was P43.6 billion compared with P16.1 billion in the same period last year, the state-owned pension fund for government employees announced on Thursday.

This comes after GSIS’ income from its investments in financial assets contributed P27.6 billion, a 2,200-percent increase from P1.2 billion in the same quarter last year, thanks to gains in equity valuations and favorable foreign exchange movements.

Income from insurance grew 9.16 percent to P56.6 billion in the first quarter from P51.8 billion in the comparable period last year.

OBy Carmel Pedroza

SLOB, Cebu—A new interisland sea route linking Southern Cebu, Siquijor, and Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental was officially launched in Oslob town, with transport and tourism stakeholders describing the initiative as a key step toward building a stronger “tourism and economic triangle” in Central Visayas.

Operated by Asian Marine Transport Corporation (AMTC), the new route connects Oslob, Cebu with Larena, Siquijor and Dumaguete City, aiming to enhance tourism, trade, and regional connectivity among three of the Visayas’ most visited destinations.

At the launch ceremony at the Port of Oslob, AMTC President and Chief Executive Officer Paul Rodriguez said the route was

platforms can simply reduce or stop giving them bookings.”

According to Mata, labor groups are concerned that future trade agreements may limit the government’s ability to regulate algorithms and digital systems used by large technology companies.

Construction workers’ group also flagged difficulties in accessing information involving publicly funded projects.

Santiago Nolla of the National Union of Building and Construction Workers said unions often struggle to obtain project contracts, contractor details and budget information needed to monitor wage compliance and workplace safety conditions.

The group said requests for labor-related information are at times denied through the invocation of data privacy rules, making it harder for unions to investigate labor and safety violations in construction sites.

Meanwhile, Annie Geron of Public Services Labor Independent Confederation (PSLINK) said access to information is critical in promoting accountability within government agencies and protecting workers’ rights in the public sector.

“For workers, especially in the public sector, access to information is deeply practical,” Geron said.

“It determines whether people understand their rights, whether they can challenge abuses and whether institutions can be held accountable,” she added.

She said labor groups continue to support efforts to institutionalize proactive disclosure policies and broader public awareness campaigns on the right to information.

Labor leaders also urged lawmakers to ensure that any future FOI measure would cover not only government agencies but also private entities involved in publicly-funded projects and outsourced government services.

WARNING that it could further burden micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and online sellers reeling from the oil crisis and high operational expenses, Sen. Bam Aquino is opposing the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) proposed Department Administrative Order (DAO) requiring mandatory permits for advertisements and sales promotions before publication.

Under the proposed DAO, businesses may be required to secure permits and file applications at least 30 working days before releasing advertisements, including digital ads, sponsored posts, videos, billboards, and promotional campaigns. It would apply to both traditional and digital advertising platforms if adopted.

Hindi pa nga nakakabangon ang ating maliliit na negosyo sa epekto ng krisis sa langis, plano na naman natin silang patawan ng panibagong pasanin [Our small businesses have not even recovered from the effects of the oil crisis, and now we plan to impose a new burden on them],” said Aquino, a known MSME and consumer advocate. He authored and sponsored the Go Negosyo Act in his first term during his stint as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship.

The Go Negosyo Law gives MSMEs— which account for 99 percent of jobs in the country—greater access to markets and financing, provides training and capacity-building programs, and streamlines the business registration process for entrepreneurs starting or expanding their ventures.

Instead of addressing and resolving false advertisements, Aquino said the DAO imposes an unnecessary burden

and an additional layer of bureaucracy on businesses, particularly MSMEs. This, he warned, will impede their market access and their growth.

While conceding that consumer protection—the avowed rationale for the proposed controversial rule—is a key mandate of the DTI, “regulation must be targeted, practical, and focused,” he pointed out.

The Senator insisted that the 30day DTI approval is not only burdensome, but could also hinder businesses that rely on timely marketing and promotional campaigns to stay competitive.

“In these times of fast times for commerce, especially online, it is unjust to make a small business wait one month before releasing an advertisement or promotion,” Aquino said. Aquino also warned that the proposed DAO could discourage entrepreneurs and MSMEs that do not have the financial capability to comply with additional bureaucratic requirements.

The costs involved in the new rule are also not to be discounted, he added.  “Instead of encouraging business, the merchants might just give up, daunted by the high cost and long process,” he pointed out, adding that the “P975 to P9,295 fee per advertisement could heavily burden MSMEs and online sellers.”

Aquino noted that while existing laws already regulate deceptive advertisements and sales promotions

under the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the proposed DAO appears to significantly broaden permit coverage, including in the digital space, and may require further review to ensure consistency with ease of doing business policies and the realities faced by MSMEs.

He expressed concern that the proposed DAO could be considered a prior restraint by requiring government permission before any commercial expression, which may raise serious constitutional issues.

While Republic Act 11967, or the Internet Transactions Act, grants the DTI jurisdiction over internet use for electronic commerce, Aquino said it does not create authority to require a universal AP for all advertisements.

He urged the DTI to shelve the proposal and focus instead on strengthening enforcement against deceptive and fraudulent advertisements without penalizing legitimate businesses.

“The DTI should focus on going after deceptive and fraudulent advertisements, instead of creating additional hurdles for legitimate businesses trying to reach their customers,” he said. Last year, Aquino also called out the DTI for imposing an unnecessary burden on MSMEs through its DAO 2512 making “Trustmark” mandatory for all online businesses, prompting the agency to defer the mandatory registration.

GSIS attributed the increase to social insurance contributions, with collections rising due to a growing member base and higher agency remittances. Moreover, GSIS’ member loan programs, providing government employees access to credit at rates below commercial lending, contributed P10.7 billion to its income in the first quarter.

Given the fund’s strong performance, GSIS was able to pay out P49.5 billion in claims and benefits, higher by 4.73 percent than the P47.3 billion it disbursed in the first quarter of last year.

The increase was driven by higher pension payments, with the average monthly old-age pension rising from P17,809.10 in 2025 to P18,874.58 in 2026, adding over P1,000 per month to the payments received by retirees. Claims and benefits accounted for 95 percent of GSIS’s total expenses, which rose by 3.30 percent to P52.1 billion from P50.5 billion a year ago.

envisioned not only as a maritime transport link, but also as a catalyst for interisland tourism, local enterprise growth, and improved accessibility for both residents and travelers.

“We envision Southern Cebu not merely as a stop along the way, but as a destination and gateway that seamlessly connects travelers to the neighboring island destinations of Siquijor and Dumaguete while showcasing the beauty and tourism potential of Cebu’s southern corridor,” Rodriguez said in his welcome remarks.

Officials said the initiative aims to strengthen the emerging “tourism and economic triangle” of Southern Cebu, Siquijor, and Dumaguete by promoting seamless travel among neighboring island destinations.

As part of the project, AMTC also

Administrative costs, covering personnel services and operating expenses, amounted to P2.44 billion, or about 4.7 percent of total expenses.

This remains within the 12-percent ceiling set by the GSIS Charter and has remained in single digits for several consecutive quarters, it noted.

“The fund grew this quarter and paid out more than it did a year ago. That is the baseline we hold ourselves to every reporting period,” GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo A. Veloso was quoted in a statement as saying.

As of end-March, total assets of GSIS reached P2 trillion, up by 1.96 percent from the P1.96 trillion recorded at year-end 2025.

With its total assets at P2 trillion, GSIS said this places the fund on track to cross the P2.1-trillion mark by year-end, in line with its 2026 target.

Based on the fund’s latest actuarial study, GSIS’s fund life is until 2058.

introduced the “Oslob Beach Club,” a resort-inspired passenger lounge designed to elevate the travel experience for those using the new route.

In an interview, Rodriguez described the facility as an extension of Southern Cebu’s tourism identity, reflecting the region’s hospitality, natural attractions, and growing role as a gateway to nearby islands.

Travelers, he added, can now enjoy a more convenient and seamless journey from Cebu City to Siquijor via Oslob through integrated transport connections, including Ceres bus services.

Beyond tourism, the new route is expected to generate broader socioeconomic opportunities for local communities in Southern Cebu and neighboring provinces.

A4

Saturday, May 23, 2026

Cebu. . .

Continued from A3

Rodriguez noted that destinations such as the towns of Moalboal and Badian could benefit from increased visitor traffic driven by the expanded transport network.

The launch comes amid ongoing national challenges related to energy costs and transportation operations.

Despite these concerns, Rodriguez said AMTC chose to move forward with the project because of the importance of regional connectivity and inclusive development.

In her message during the launch, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro stressed the role of connectivity in opening opportunities for tourism, investments, and economic growth.

“I’m especially happy because this helps strengthen tourism in southern Cebu, particularly Oslob, which continues to attract visitors from all over the world,” Baricuatro said.

“And of course, when tourism grows, livelihoods grow too—from our small businesses and transport sector to the food industry and local communities,” she added.

AMTC, operator of the Super Shuttle Ferry, also announced sustainability initiatives tied to the development, including plans to install solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations in Southern Cebu as part of its push for greener tourism infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the company is also exploring the possibility of expanding its network by adding a future route connecting Panglao, Bohol and Oslob, Cebu.

Any warrant of arrest ops against ‘Bato’ to be humane–PNP chief

By Rex Anthony Naval

ANY operation related to the enforcement of an arrest warrant against Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa will be carried out under strict operational procedures and with full respect for human rights, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said on Friday. He also added that all concerned units have been directed to observe maximum tolerance and professionalism in every stage of the operation.

“The PNP operates strictly under the rule of law. I have issued clear instructions to all local and specialized units that any enforcement action concerning Senator Dela Rosa must be executed with absolute

transparency, full adherence to police operational procedures, and the utmost respect for human rights,” he said in a statement.

Nartatez made the remarks after the Department of Justice (DOJ) ordered the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to arrest Dela Rosa, who faces a warrant of arrest issued by the International Criminal Court  linked to the previous administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign.

“The PNP operates strictly under the rule of law. I have issued clear instructions to all local and specialized units that any enforcement action concerning Sen. Dela Rosa must be executed with absolute transparency, full adherence to police operational procedures, and the utmost respect

for human rights,” he added.

He said the PNP will perform its mandate without political consideration and within the bounds of the law.

“We will perform our legal duty professionally and without political bias, ensuring that the process remains dignified and secure for all parties involved,” the PNP chief noted.

Nartatez also confirmed that tracker teams have been mobilized in coordination with the DOJ and the NBI to locate and serve the arrest warrant on the senator.

“Our mandate is clear but I am emphasizing to our personnel that operational discipline is paramount. There will be no shortcuts and every movement will be heavily aligned with existing protocols to protect constitutional rights and maintain public

trust,” he added.

In a separate interview, Nartatez said tracker teams that might be deployed against Dela Rosa could come from the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

He added that these units will be coordinating with local police and other law enforcement agencies including the NBI.

Nartatez also said that the PNP is still to receive any request from Dela Rosa regarding protective custody.

“As of now, he is not asking [the PNP] for any protective custody,” the PNP chief said.

However, Nartatez said seeking protective custody means surrender and this is a good outcome as the police could concentrate on other wanted persons.

Lacson debunks Imee Marcos ‘Con-Ass’ lies

SEN. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson on Friday dismissed as outright lies the claims of Sen. Maria Imelda Josefa Remedios

“Imee” Marcos about a supposed attempt to take control of the Senate leadership to pave the way for constitutional amendments to

extend the terms of top government officials. Lacson said the Senate minority bloc, where he is a member, has never heard of such a tale, much less taken it up during its caucuses.

“Those are flat, outright lies. We never took it up in our caucuses. We meet frequently but never talk about it. Whoever cooked up that tale, we don’t know what they are trying to get at,” he said in an interview on True FM.

“Hindikoalamanongpinanggagalingan ng kanilang pananalita. Kung meron silang matibaynabasehanbahalasila. [I don’t know where those tales came from. If those who are spinning those stories have proof, then it›s up to them],” he added.

EJAP. . .

Continued from A3

with DOE Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella and ERC Director for Market Operations Service Sharon O. Montañer.

“The crisis exposed real vulnerabilities in the country’s energy sector—vulnerabilities

Lacson said that as far as the “Mythical 11”—the nickname of the minority bloc—is concerned, its priority is to find ways to restore the Senate’s reputation and dignity.

He said that should the minority get the needed numbers to take back leadership of the Senate, it would seek to improve the public perception of the Senate.

“We love the Senate. All of us are united on this—we must resurrect the Senate’s image. Forget all other issues regarding leadership changes for now—our primordial concern is the integrity of the Senate,” he said. It will be recalled that it was also Senator Marcos who claimed, echoing Senate President

Alan Peter Cayetano, that four minority senators were tipped off by unknown parties that something big was going to happen last May 13, and went home early. Minority senators Lacson, Erwin Tulfo, and Risa Hontiveros have flatly denied this, saying they went home early because: session had adjourned, and Cayetano suddenly changed the post-session all-senators’ caucus to a majority-only caucus.

In another video interview, Imee Marcos said thet got word that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself had given the orders for NBI to arrest Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa at all cost, even if there will be casualties. Butch Fernandez

we can no longer afford to ignore,” EJAP President John Ted Cordero said. “This forum brings together the voices that matter most in shaping what comes next. The path forward will not be easy, but the direction is clear: a more secure, more resilient, and more inclusive energy future for all Filipinos.” Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc., Aboitiz Power Corp., Meralco PowerGen Corp. and DivinaLaw are this year’s gold sponsors. The forum is supported by Petron Corp. as a silver sponsor, while PetroEnergy Resources Corp., PetroGreen Energy Corp., Manila Electric Co., Citicore Renewable Energy Corp., BDO Unibank Inc., Semirara Mining and Power Corp., First Gen Corp., Vena Energy and the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines are the bronze sponsors.

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Minority senators affirm Erwin Tulfo’s bid vs online participation in VP Sara’s trial

AMOVE to allow online participation not only for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara DuterteCarpio but to allow Sen. Ronald de la Rosa to participate and vote remotely in the plenary voting on motions—including the change of the Senate leadership and committee chairmanships—will likely fail, according to Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson. Lacson’s statement on Friday affirmed the stance revealed to reporters a day earlier by Sen. Erwin Tulfo. The latter told reporters he will definitely move to block any attempt to grant such an unprecedented privilege to a senatorjudge, and hoped the rest of the minority will move against it, too.

The proposition was raised by Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, apparently in anticipation of a situation where Sen. Ronald dela Rosa may be arrested and detained in the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC), which tagged him as a key player in the case of crimes against humanity involving his former boss, ex-President Rodrigo Duterte, over the latter’s war on drugs between 2016 and 2019. Lacson said the Senate’s rules allow virtual participation only during force majeure or unexpected and uncontrollable circumstances, or during emergencies such as the Covid pandemic.

“Hindilulusot.Atsakamaantalakamipag binagonaminangrules on impeachment (Such a move won’t succeed. And it might delay us if we have to change the rules of the impeachment court),” Lacson said in an interview on True FM. “Even the Senate rules do not allow such remote participation. Under the Senate rules, it is allowed only in the event of a force majeure or emergency like Covid. During Covid, we had to resort to remote participation because of the lockdown,” he added.

Lacson noted there is still no decision on Marcoleta’s motion to allow online participation in the Senate plenary session and impeachment trial, which is expected to benefit Dela Rosa, who went into hiding since November 2025, and surfaced last May 11 to cast his vote for Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano in the coup that replaced Senate President Vicente Sotto III. Dela Rosa, however, escaped from the Senate’s protective custody at dawn of May 14, and his whereabouts is unknown.

The Marcoleta motion is “invalid” because the Senate would need to amend its rules and go through proper procedures, Lacson said Also, Lacson said that if Marcoleta’s move were for the impeachment court, it will have to be decided in the impeachment court, whose rules and procedures are different from those in the Senate. Butch Fernandez

BusinessMirror

Effective arthritis management for seniors: Strategies, therapies, diet and helpful daily habits

By Jona C. Redondo

ARTHRITIS , particularly osteoarthritis (OA), is a common condition among older adults, causing joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While joint replacement surgery is an option for severe cases, many elderly individuals can effectively manage symptoms and maintain an active life through non-surgical approaches. These include lifestyle modifications, exercise, diet, physical therapy, and alternative therapies. Evidence-based strategies can reduce pain, improve function, and slow progression without invasive procedures.

Understanding arthritis in the elderly

OSTEOARTHRITIS involves the breakdown of cartilage, leading to bone-on-bone friction, inflammation, and pain, most commonly affecting knees, hips, hands, and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune form, also impacts seniors. Age-related factors like reduced muscle mass, prior injuries, and excess weight increase risk. The good news is that management focuses on symptom relief and joint protection rather than curing the underlying wear.

Consult a healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis and a tailored plan, often involving a multidisciplinary team including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and nutritionists.

The power of exercise and physical activity

REGULAR , low-impact movement is one of the most effective non-surgical interventions. Exercise strengthens muscles around joints, reduces stiffness, improves lubrication, and helps with weight control.

Recommended Activities: Walking: Start with short, gentle walks on flat surfaces. Proper gait can significantly reduce knee pain.

Swimming or water aerobics: Buoyancy minimizes joint stress while providing resistance.

Tai chi and yoga: These improve balance, flexibility, and posture. A review noted tai chi helps with walking ability and posture in knee osteoarthritis.

Strength training: Focus on quadriceps, glutes, and core with resistance bands or bodyweight exercises.

Chair exercises: Ideal for those with limited mobility.

Expert video recommendations: Dr. Alyssa Kuhn, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and osteoarthritis specialist, shares practical exercises on her Arthritis Adventure channel. Watch on YouTube “5 exercises to STRENGTHEN arthritic knees WITHOUT more pain” for safe strengthening routines suitable for seniors.

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) video on “Osteoarthritis and Exercise” features physical therapists explaining cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and balance components. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, broken into short sessions. Always warm up and listen to your body — mild discomfort is normal, but sharp pain is not.

Weight management and nutrition

EXCESS weight adds significant stress to weight-bearing joints. Losing even five to 10 percent of body weight can provide noticeable relief; every pound lost reduces knee load by about four pounds.

Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish (for omega-3s), nuts, and olive oil. Reduce processed foods, sugars, and red meats. Some evidence supports plant-based approaches for reducing inflammation in RA.

Helpful habits: Stay hydrated. Consider anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, and pomegranate (consult a doctor before major changes or supplements).

TimeOur De Lima pushes cash benefits for seniors aged 70 and above

Mayo Clinic resources on YouTube highlight how diet can fight arthritis inflammation.

Physical therapy and joint protection

PHYSICAL therapy (PT) is cornerstone non-surgical treatment. Therapists teach proper movement, provide manual therapy, and design home programs. Braces, canes, or ergonomic tools can offload joints.

Daily habits include: Gentle stretching to maintain range of motion.

Good posture and body mechanics (e.g., lifting with legs, not back).

Using assistive devices like jar openers or raised toilet seats.

Applying heat (for stiffness) or cold (for swelling) packs.

Expert insight: Orthopedic surgeons in “Treating Knee Arthritis Without Surgery” by Talking with Docs discuss top non-surgical options, including PT, lifestyle changes, and more.

Alternative therapies

Several complementary approaches show promise:

Massage therapy: Gentle massage reduces pain and improves range of motion.

Acupuncture: Some find relief from pain.

Supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric/curcumin, or omega-3s may help (evidence varies; discuss with a doctor due to interactions).

Mind-body practices: Meditation or mindfulness for pain coping and stress reduction, which can amplify pain perception.

Dr. Jeffrey Peng, a non-operative orthopedist, presents evidencebased non-surgical treatments, including lifestyle and metabolic factors, in YouTube videos like “Top 3 Proven Arthritis Treatments.”

Daily habits for long-term management

INCORPORATE these into routines:

Morning routine: Gentle stretches or a short walk to loosen joints.

Activity pacing: Alternate activity with rest; avoid prolonged sitting or standing.

Sleep optimization: Supportive mattress and consistent schedule for recovery.

Stress management: Breathing exercises or hobbies.

Regular check-ins: Monitor symptoms and adjust as needed.

Fall prevention: Balance exercises and home safety modifications.

Consistency matters more than intensity. Many seniors regain function and reduce medication reliance through these habits.

When to seek professional help

SEE a doctor if pain worsens, limits daily activities, or includes swelling/ redness suggesting inflammation. Non-surgical options like injections (corticosteroid or viscosupplementation) may provide temporary relief under medical guidance.

Empowerment through action MANAGING arthritis without surgery is achievable for many elderly individuals. Combining exercise, weight control, nutrition, PT, and alternative therapies under professional guidance can dramatically improve quality of life. Resources from experts like Dr. Alyssa Kuhn, Dr. Jeffrey Peng, and organizations like Mayo Clinic and Arthritis Foundation offer accessible, evidencebased support.

Start small today—perhaps with a 10-minute walk or follow a stretching video—and build sustainable habits. With patience and the right strategies, living actively with arthritis is not only possible but empowering. These approaches, backed by clinical experience and research, offer hope and practical tools for seniors seeking relief and independence.

Always consult healthcare providers before starting new regimens, especially with other health conditions.

HBy Zaldy De Layola

OUSE Senior Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima on Monday called for the immediate passage of a measure expanding the benefits for senior citizens by including septuagenarians, or Filipinos aged 70 to 75, as recipients of cash benefits.

House Bill No. 9170 seeks to amend Republic Act No. 11982, which amended RA 10868 or the “Centenarians Act of 2016,” by expanding its benefit coverage and establishing a gradual progression in the amount of cash gifts for Filipinos aged 70 to 100. Aside from including septuagenarians as beneficiaries, the bill also increases the amount of benefits received by Filipinos upon reaching the ages of 80 or octogenarians, and 90 or nonagenarians.

As envisioned in the proposed measure, all Filipinos, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, upon reaching the age of 70 years old, shall receive a cash gift of P25,000; upon reaching the age of 80 years old, they shall receive a cash gift of P50,000; and upon reaching the age of 90 years old, they shall receive a cash gift of P75,000. Moreover, all Filipinos, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, upon reaching the ages of 75, 85, and

95, shall each receive a cash gift of P10,000.

“Our existing laws rightfully seek to honor the Filipino elderly who reach the milestone ages of 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 by providing them with cash benefits. However, most of our countrymen do not live long enough to receive these benefits. Even when they do, they are often no longer able to fully enjoy them,” De Lima said in a news release.

“This measure seeks not only to honor our senior citizens by providing cash incentives for reaching milestone years, but also to provide them with the financial support they

increasingly need as their capacity for work decreases and health complications increase with age,” she added. RA 10868 was enacted on June 23, 2016, to provide all Filipinos who reach the age of 100 years a gift in the amount of P100,000 in honor of the centenarian’s longevity. This was later amended by RA 11982 to grant benefits, in the form of cash gifts of P10,000, to all Filipinos upon reaching the ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95. De Lima noted the report by the Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) published in February 2021, stating that Filipinos have a life expectancy of 71 years, as well as recent World Bank data placing the average Filipino life expectancy at 70 years as of 2024. Meanwhile, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the average Filipino life expectancy as of 2021 is 66.4 years old overall, with 69.9 years old for women and 63.4 years old for men.

“Our senior citizens are already at the stage of their life where care and comfort matter most. Let us not deny them the benefits that the State could give to them now as a gesture of gratitude for their contribution to our society,” De lima said. PNA

Not a ‘foreign court’ but humanity’s court

LET me start by telling you about my wife’s cardiologist, who’s been her main doctor for the past two decades or more and I must admit, she’s been doing a superb job. She’s a petite woman in her mid 60s, warm and accommodating, very solicitous and caring. However, we’ve discovered another side of her, which I would find ordinarily amusing if it were not so dangerously dismaying.

She is a strong and unwavering supporter of EJK killings. Why? She is a practicing doctor who is supposed to protect and save, not take away, lives in keeping with the Hippocratic oath she swore upon at the beginning of her medical career. To think that in many countries, drug addiction is seen as a health issue that can be managed and cured, not a crime.

With the recent developments involving a certain legislator, who is now on the run, evading the warrant of arrest issued by an international court for his major role in EJK killings, she, of course, echoes what we read in many posts on social media. In her rabid support for the former president and EJK killings, she has been blindsided and cannot see how that former enforcer of the law and an elected public official is now making a mockery of the law instead of upholding its majesty.

Alas, many share this view. Their chosen bone of contention seems to be jurisdiction. They do not recognize the jurisdiction of the said court because it is a “foreign court” and will only surrender themselves if the arrest warrant is issued by a Philippine court. Even if this contention has already been debunked, words will not convince someone who is not willing to listen.

My personal belief is this: the former president and the senator now on the run are without doubt Filipinos. But before they are Filipinos, they are first and foremost human beings, therefore members of humanity. We cannot separate ourselves from the rest of our fellow human beings.

This is why I am one of those who hold the belief that there are condem-

nable offenses against our fellow human beings that must be tried on a higher level because local judicial systems cannot be trusted to serve the ends of justice with fairness and equality.

But since I am not a lawyer, at this point let me go on a different tack. Instead of delving into legalities, let me just go into the heart of things.

Going deeper into the matter will probably explain why many Filipinos, including those highly educated like my wife’s cardiologist who find it acceptable to summarily execute fellow members of our common humanity without due process and even side with those who commit them. Why have we reached a point where many of us silently gave consent when the former president arrogantly declared: I don’t care about human rights. Like the Nazis in the 1940s we were like the rabid spectators in a Roman arena calling out to gladiators, shouting in unison: kill, kill, kill!

This is not who we should be. “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity,” said Nelson Mandela. So, what ever happened to the Filipino’s sense of humanity?

Mabini, Claro Recto, Manuel Quezon, and our highly esteemed past leaders all studied the humanities in school, which helped shape their minds and moral values. Emilio Jacinto’s “Kartilya ng Katipunan,” which consists of 14 fundamental principles designed to instill nationalism, ethical living, and respect for humanity among revolutionaries fighting for Philippine independence reflects our founding fathers’ education in the humanities. The 4th principle is very explicit: everyone has equal inherent human dignity.

Some will probably point out that these learnings came from the West. What’s wrong with that? Our Christian religion came from the West too. Not only that, they reflect universal truths, echoing similar teachings of Lao Tzu, Confucius, Buddha, and other ancient sages from the East.

Note that even our native beliefs and way of thinking are also synchronous with these universal human values. Take the core concept of kapwa This refers to a shared identity or “shared inner self.” It means treating

manities speak to what it is to be human. They help us to understand humanity on a wider, more nuanced scale. In history, philosophy, literature, drama, music, or art, we experience human nature, society and the moral implications of human actions. We learn about the messiness of human life and the array of dilemmas that inevitably arise within it. Our education in the humanities enables us to look beyond hyperbole, lies, gaslighting and look for truth. It gives us the critical thinking skills to prevent us from being easily swayed by sweet tongued populists who are very adept at labeling and demonizing others to justify their call for violence. When we lose touch with the human nature of those around us, “our kapwa,” most especially those who are most different from us, we lose our humanity as a result of devaluing theirs.

others not as separate from you, but as an extension of yourself—literally translating to “fellow human being.”

In today’s society, we face moral ambiguities and we can’t think clearly anymore. We rationalize, justify it through convoluted reasoning but we are not really convinced.

The fault can be traced to our education. Something of great value has been missing since we relegated the study of the humanities and the liberal arts to the margins. For when we study the humanities and liberal arts, we experience human nature, society and the moral implications of human actions. Humanities are academic disciplines that include history, literature, philosophy, art. They explore what it means to be human and aim to develop critical thinking, empathy, and creative expression.

Jose Rizal, Marcelo del Pilar, Jose Burgos, Antonio Luna, Apolinario

Any old timer who studied the humanities would know that this universal message echoed in “For whom the bell tolls” written by the English poet John Donne’s: “No man is an island/ entire of itself/every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. It is a powerful meditation on human interconnectedness.”

These are the valuable learnings in humanities we are now missing because our educational system is now too focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Liberal arts subjects such as literature, music, and drama at undergraduate level have been de-emphasized.

The unifying theme of the study of the humanities is found in its root word—humanity. From the theories of philosophy to classic literature, the hu-

This is why it is imperative to bring back the humanities in our educational system and our technological society. Every professional (including doctors and engineers), every agent of the law and justice, every public servant, every politician, every businessman and industrialist must have a deep grounding in the humanities. We need to find a way to make the humanities compelling to today’s students by making them relevant in their lives and present society. Yes, as Christians, we have been taught about love and compassion for our neighbors. But before being a Christian, we are human beings first. No one can just pull the trigger against his fellow human because “any man’s death diminishes me/because I am involved in mankind.”

The Filipino nation is now at an inflection point. At the moment, we are being given this critical opportunity to demonstrate that we are one with the rest of humankind; that we care for human rights for all, including those who sin against humankind.

To save the future of humanity we need to send a strong message to all future authoritarians, tyrants and despots that there should never be impunity for crimes against humanity. Every transgressor must be held accountable and tried before a jury of his peers—his fellow human beings. My suggestion is to make them face young people from all walks of life, from all parts of the world. The world is watching us. Are we up to the challenge?

businessmirror.lifestyle@gmail.com • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Workato opens local office to help businesses futureproof legacy systems with AI

BY RIZAL RAOUL REYES

Samsung makes bold move into the AI TV era (Part 1)

the crowd when you’re watching a game) and Color Booster Pro (which analyzes and categorizes scenes to provide more vivid, lifelike color).

The new Samsung lineup of Vision AI TVs and sound devices include the Micro RGB and Mini LED TVs. Vision AI Companion sets the new Samsung TVs apart. With advanced natural language understanding, it allows the viewer to interact with the TV more conversationally. For instance, cast information can be pulled up while watching a TV series or movie. You can also ask for an athlete’s stats in real time, while the game is airing.

MICRO RGB

MICRO RGB brings Samsung’s premium TV experience across a wider range of screen sizes with highly precise color, brightness, and immersive AIpowered viewing. Micro RGB is built on Samsung’s proprietary Micro RGB Technology, which uses individually controlled red, green, and blue micro LEDs to deliver highly precise light control, richer detail and more natural color.

The Micro RGB Vision AI TV, which claims to be an industry first, runs on Samsung’s most powerful processor, the Micro RGB AI Engine Pro.

LET’S be honest: our lives are scattered across way too many screens. We have a gadget for every little thing we do, but instead of making life easier, it usually just feels like a constant, disconnected struggle.

The Oppo Reno15 Series 5G is here to fix that clutter. When paired with the Oppo Watch S and Oppo Pad 5, your tech stops acting like a bunch of individual tools and starts working like one cohesive team. Think of the Oppo Reno15 Series 5G as your command center. Whether you’re glancing at a text on your watch during a meeting or resuming play on a video exactly where you left off on your tablet, everything stays perfectly in sync. No more emailing files to yourself or digging through your pockets every time your phone buzzes. It’s a streamlined setup that actually keeps up with your pace, making your digital life feel organized and effortless.

KEEPING UP WITH NOTIFICATIONS AND MUSIC

HAVING to fish your phone out of your pocket every time it buzzes is a chore, but with the Oppo Watch S, everything you need is right on your wrist. Whether you’re mid-sprint to a meeting or just have your hands full with coffee, you can glance at calls and messages without breaking your stride. Even your soundtrack is on remote control. Start your playlist on your Oppo Reno15 Series 5G and use your watch to skip tracks or crank up the volume. It’s like having a digital baton for your life’s background music.

FITNESS WITHOUT THE FUSS

CLOSING your rings shouldn’t feel like a math project. The Oppo Watch S tracks your workouts and steps automatically, then whisks all that data over to your Reno15 Series 5G. You get a clear, birds-eye view of your progress in one spot which

This enables 4K upscaling, color enhancement, and sound optimization all at once. Micro RGB Precision Color 100 refines every shade onscreen, making colors appear more vivid and true-to-life. Glare Free technology minimizes light reflection in bright environments, helping preserve a clear viewing experience across a range of lighting conditions.

Micro RGB Vision AI TV also delivers a remarkable sound performance. The AI Sound Controller Pro allows the viewer to adjust the volume of voices, background music, and sound effects to isolate even the subtlest audio.

If you are a football fan, AI Football Mode makes football viewing even better by applying picture and sound settings, designed to make you feel like you’re in the pitch.

This AI-driven optimization delivers richer colors, dynamic contrast, with crystal-clear audio. This allows you to track rapid passes and feel the roar of

means no more toggling between five different apps just to see if you hit your goals. With over 100 sports modes, it’s built to keep up with whatever you’re into, while professional modes for 12 popular sports deliver more precise tracking and deeper insights to help you improve with intention.

CREATING AND VIEWING

CONTENT ACROSS DEVICES

WHEN it’s time to move from “quick snap” to “masterpiece,” the hand-off is seamless. Shoot high-res content on your Oppo Reno15 Series 5G, then jump over to the Oppo Pad 5 to see it pop on that massive, 12.1-inch 2.8K display. Need to get productive? The Pad 5’s AI-powered note-taking is a lifesaver for sketching out ideas or polishing documents. You capture the spark on your phone and refine the fire on your tablet, making it the ultimate tag-team for getting things done.

A MORE CONNECTED EVERYDAY SETUP AT the end of the day, the Oppo Reno15 Series 5G, Watch S, and Pad 5 aren’t just gadgets but an ecosystem

The latest Samsung OLED Vision AI TV is designed to make entertainment feel more cinematic, immersive and engaging. Built with self-illuminating pixel technology, the Samsung OLED display achieves perfect infinite blacks and brilliant pure whites.

The Samsung promise is the picture feels less like a screen and more like a window right into the content you’re viewing. The TV holds VDE certification for Real Black Performance, Pantone validation for accuracy across over 2.100 colors and 110 skin tone shades.

This picture quality is driven by the NQ4 AI Gen3 Processor, which uses 128 AI neural networks that work in real time to sharpen, upscale and optimize every frame. Samsung OLED HDR+ further elevates the experience, analyzing each scene individually and boosting brightness precisely where it matters.

The TV’s brilliance extends to the gaming experience. The Motion Xcelerator 165Hz supports VRR gameplay at up to 4K 165Hz. It comes with a Gaming Pack, which eliminates lag, tearing, and stutter, to make every playthrough smooth and distraction-free.

TO BE CONTINUED...

that actually works with one another. If you’re tired of the “multi-device juggle,” this setup is your shortcut to a smoother, more connected day. The Oppo Reno15 Series 5G is now available nationwide at all authorized Oppo Stores. Customers can also purchase online via Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and Oppo Online Store. More information about the family of Oppo devices can be found at www.Oppo.com/ph/ or Oppo Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

WORKATO, a leading modern enterprise orchestration and automation platform, has officially launched its operations in the Philippines, aiming to simplify how local businesses bridge the gap between legacy systems and the burgeoning world of artificial intelligence (AI). “The Philippines has been part of Workato’s story since our earliest days, and it’s now one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling enterprise markets. Organizations here are ambitious and digitally forward, and as AI transformation becomes a key priority, they need infrastructure that connects their entire enterprise. Workato was built for this moment,” Vijay Tella, CEO and co-founder of Workato, said in a press statement.

Tyrone Borromeo, managing director of Workato Philippines, said Philippine enterprises are at an exciting juncture. The appetite for AI-driven transformation is real, and the urgency to get it right has never been higher. Workato’s commitment here runs deep. This country is home not only to the enterprises we serve, but to the global customer success, support, and business functions that power Workato worldwide. To now build our commercial presence in the place that has long powered Workato behind the scenes—that’s a chapter I’m proud to lead,” said Borromeo.

“At Philippine Airlines, we are committed to building an enterprise as agile as the world we operate in. Over the past years, our adoption has advanced considerably with integrations across HR and employee operations now executing a larger volume of transactions each month. This is an infrastructure that scales with ambition, and we look forward to continuing to push boundaries with Workato,” said Angelique C. Tinsay, vice president of IT Operations for Philippine Airlines.

By establishing a local presence, Borromeo said the move enhances Workato’s long-term commitment to serving enterprise customers in the Philippines as they navigate AI-led business transformation, and positions the country as a strategic growth market within Workato’s broader APAC footprint. He added that the Philippines will serve not only as a key go-tomarket territory, but also a base for Workato’s global customer success, support, and business operations.

As organizations face mounting pressure to unlock value from AI, Workato’s entry as a dedicated in-country entity reflects the platform’s growing traction in the market and the company’s conviction that enterprise-grade agentic orchestration will be foundational to how Philippine businesses compete in the decade ahead.

“We created a platform that’s easy to use, that can orchestrate or automate all those systems together,”  Borromeo explained. “In the past, you had to be deeply technical. Workato came to make that much easier.”

The establishment of the Philippines entity is backed by meaningful investment in local go-tomarket capacity, and Workato has already established offices in two key locations—PBCom Tower in Makati, at the heart of the Philippine enterprise and financial district, and Axis Tower in Alabang, home to one of the country’s largest concentrations of technology and operations talent. Workato’s other near-term priorities for the market include:

■ Workato aims to grow its Philippines team by 20 percent to 30 percent by the end of 2026, spanning product support, customer success, solutions consulting, and partner management.

■ Workato will adopt a partner-led approach to growth in the Philippines, empowering its ecosystem to drive market expansion, customer acquisition and delivery. With a select network of local systems integrators, technology alliances and reseller partners, Workato will be well-positioned to meet the growing market demand for enterprise modernization and AI transformation.

The launch featured insights from Prince Retail, a Cebu-based retailer with over 70 stores in provincial areas. Christopher Calalang, representing Prince Retail, shared how the company struggled to scale as they aimed for 100 stores.

“What worked before at a smaller scale could not work on an enterprise level,” Calalang said. “Our first use case was a system that suggests what products to order based on low stocks. Before Workato, that data flow kept failing, leading to manual work and lost sales. Linking integration to business outcomes made it an easy sell to management.”

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Karaoke meets content creation with JBL’S new EasySing mics

THEY say 99 percent of Filipinos can sing. As for the remaining one percent? They can usually be saved with the right microphone, a generous amount of reverb, and a highly forgiving crowd.

In the Philippines, karaoke is woven into the fabric of daily life much like lumpia is expected at every party. No one ever asks if there will be singing. Instead, the only real questions are: Who will claim the microphone first? Who will daringly aim for the highest note? and How many drinks it will take before a song choice turns into a beautiful, screaming disaster? Think Aegis meets Whitney.

For the past 80 years, JBL... those three letters have been associated with big, confident sound. Concert stages, cinemas, portable speakers, headphones, car audio, home entertainment, and party systems have all carried the JBL name. A lot of audiophiles, myself included, learned to appreciate good audio because of JBL. There is a certain expectation when you see that orange logo: the sound should have body, energy and enough presence to fill a room.

But anyone who has spent time with a JBL PartyBox knows the microphone experience has always been part of the appeal. A party speaker in the Philippines is rarely only a speaker. The moment it has a mic input, it becomes a karaoke machine, a mini concert stage, a family reunion centerpiece, and occasionally a neighborhood disturbance.

So when JBL Philippines unveiled its newest lineup last week at the Clark Marriott Hotel in Pampanga, I expected the usual show of force: bigger speakers, brighter lights, stronger bass, and updated headphones. The launch did have all of that. JBL presented new portable speakers, PartyBox systems, Live and Tune headphones, Quantum gaming headsets, and several additions built around modern listening, gaming, and entertainment habits.

What I did not expect was for a microphone to steal my attention.

The JBL EasySing Mic Mini and EasySing Mic Mini Duo are pocket-sized wireless microphones built for on-the-go singing and casual content creation. They connect through a USB-C dongle, and when paired with compatible JBL portable speakers or PartyBox models, they can activate real-time AI Vocal Removal. In simpler terms, they can take a regular song from a streaming source and reduce or remove the lead vocals so you can sing over the track almost instantly. That is a bigger deal than it first sounds.

Old karaoke systems depended on song libraries. If the song wasn’t in the machine, you waited. If the karaoke version didn’t exist yet, you searched YouTube. If the instrumental upload sounded terrible, you sang anyway and blamed the track.

The EasySing system changes that behavior. It lets users lower the original vocals by 25 percent, 50 percent, or 100 percent. Leave a little vocal guide when you need support, reduce it halfway for backing, or remove the lead completely when you are ready to take over. That kind of flexibility feels made for the streaming generation. People discover songs on TikTok in the morning and want to sing them with friends by night. Music moves too fast now for old karaoke libraries to keep up.

The JBL EasySing Mic Mini Duo also looks like a typical wearable creator mic at first glance. Technically, JBL doesn’t market it as a lapel mic, but the design allows it to work like a lapel-style wireless mic. You can clip it to your clothes using the magnetic attachment, hold it by its magnetic handle, or use it as a standalone microphone for livestreams, presentations, podcasts, quick interviews, and mobile content. JBL lists support for Bluetooth, USB-C, and Aux output, with a stable 2.4GHz wireless connection.

The EasySing Mic Mini sits closer to the karaoke side, but it carries enough recording-friendly features to make sense for casual creators. It has AI noise suppression, Voice Boost for higher notes, EQ customization through the JBL One App, and up to six hours of microphone playtime. The dongle also has its own battery, rated at up to six hours on average.

The microphone itself measures only 33.6 x 61.2 x 24.3 mm and weighs 37 grams, based on the spec sheet. That makes it genuinely pocketable and light enough to wear during casual shoots or performances without feeling awkward.

With everyone becoming content creators (or aspiring to be!), that combination makes perfect sense. A gadget that can help you record a short video, host a livestream, present clearly, and then turn into your karaoke weapon for the night has a very specific kind of appeal.

Then there’s the larger JBL EasySing Mics which serve the more traditional karaoke crowd. These are two handheld wireless microphones with real-time vocal removal, natural reverb, high-pitch support, feedback suppression, and up to 10 hours of singing time. They are designed for compatible JBL PartyBox speakers and feel closer to what most people expect from a karaoke mic setup.

GET THE PARTY GOING

BOTH products matter because JBL also built the rest of its new lineup around the same karaoke-friendly idea. The JBL PartyBox Encore 2 Plus and PartyBox On-The-Go 2 Plus now integrate EasySing AI Vocal Removal directly into the speakers. That means the speaker itself can strip lead vocals from songs in real time while keeping backing vocals, with high-pitch enhancement, natural reverb, feedback suppression, and two wireless digital microphones included.

The PartyBox On-The-Go 2 Plus delivers 100W RMS output, up to 15 hours of playtime, two wireless microphones with up to 10 hours of mic playtime, an IPX4 splashproof design, Auracast multi-speaker connection, and a shoulder strap for easier transport.

The PartyBox Encore 2 Plus also offers 100W RMS output, a 5.25-inch woofer, two 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters, Bluetooth 5.4, up to 15 hours of speaker playtime, two wireless mics, and EasySing vocal removal support.

For those who want something larger, the JBL PartyBox 130 brings 200W RMS output from two 5.25-inch woofers and two 1-inch silk dome tweeters, AI Sound Boost, a redesigned lightshow, up to 15 hours of battery life, IPX4 splash resistance, Auracast support, dual mic and guitar inputs, and compatibility with JBL EasySing Mics.

major highlight of the launch, and this is where JBL showed a different side of its audio expertise. The new JBL Quantum 250, Quantum 650, and Quantum 950 headsets are built around the idea that sound can decide the outcome of a game.

The Quantum 250 is the wired entry point, with 50mm carbon dynamic drivers, JBL Quantum Spatial Sound, a detachable 6mm cardioid noise-cancelling boom mic, 3.5mm multiplatform compatibility, and replaceable parts including the cable, microphone, cushions, and hammock.

The Quantum 650 steps up with wireless connectivity through a low-latency 2.4GHz dongle, Bluetooth 5.3, wired USB-C audio with latency under 30ms, 50mm drivers, JBL Quantum Spatial Sound, a detachable cardioid boom mic, Zoom certification, replaceable components, and up to 45 hours of playtime using 2.4GHz or up to 60 hours using Bluetooth only. The flagship Quantum 950 goes even further with Adaptive Noise Cancelling, JBL Quantum Spatial Sound with head tracking, Hi-Res certified audio, a multi-purpose base station, dual wireless connection, replaceable batteries, Zoom certification, and up to 50 hours total playtime using two rechargeable batteries rated at 25 hours each.

I liked that JBL did not treat gaming headsets as disposable accessories. The replaceable microphones, cushions, cables, hammocks, and batteries point to a more practical kind of long-term ownership, especially for players who use headsets for both gaming and work calls.

The rest of the lineup rounded out JBL’s broader 80th anniversary push. The JBL Go 5, Xtreme 5, PartyBox 130, PartyBox Encore 2 Plus, PartyBox OnThe-Go 2 Plus, Live 680NC, Live 780NC, Tune 530BT, Tune 730BT, Tune 680NC, Tune 780NC, Quantum 250, Quantum 650, and Quantum 950 are available now, while the EasySing Mic Mini Duo, EasySing Mic Mini, PartyBox 130, Live Beam 4, Live Buds 4, and Live Flex 4 are listed as coming soon to the market. Pricing starts at ₱8,999 for the JBL EasySing Mic Mini, ₱12,999 for the EasySing Mic Mini Duo, and ₱10,999 for the EasySing Mic. The JBL PartyBox 130 is priced at ₱23,999, the PartyBox Encore 2 Plus at ₱26,999, and the PartyBox On-The-Go 2 Plus at ₱24,999. The Quantum gaming headsets are priced at ₱3,999 for the Quantum 250, ₱9,199 for the Quantum 650, and ₱21,999 for the Quantum 950.

another milestone that reflects the growing trust of Filipino families in flexible, affordable and reliable home internet. Built on a prepaid, no lock-up model, GFiber Prepaid empowers households to take control of their connectivity, making fast and dependable internet more accessible at a time when rising costs of living and energy challenges demand practical solutions.

With a 15 percent quarteronquarter growth in subscribers, this milestone represents millions of everyday moments powered by GFiber Prepaid. This momentum was further fueled by highervalue reloads, sustaining revenue growth in the prepaid fiber segment. Globe’s approach prioritizes profitable density over geographic sprawl, ensuring disciplined expansion through targeted customer acquisition. By balancing rapid scale with sustainable longterm value, the company’s success reflects a deliberate strategy rooted in quality growth and customer relevance.

Now, families can confidently enrich their digital lifestyle at home, seamlessly connecting up to 15 devices at once and supporting the diverse needs of every household member. From students learning online, to professionals working remotely or managing side hustles, to families streaming entertainment and loved ones staying in touch, GFiber Prepaid delivers flexible, reliable fiber connectivity that makes everyday progress possible.

“GFiber Prepaid has become a trusted everyday partner at

A8 Saturday, May 23, 2026

TESDA’s upskilling equips Filipinos, builds globally competitive workforce

THETechnical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is intensifying its upskilling and reskilling programs to equip Filipino workers with competencies needed to keep pace with rapid technological change.

During the “KBP Bukidnon Interaction” last April, Training Center Administrator Daniel A. Cañete of TESDA Bukidnon affirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening economic resilience. He said the agency supports national strategies such as the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program (EECP) by helping industries reduce fuel use, improve machine performance, and adopt energy-saving technologies, including automated and sensor-based equipment.

Cañete said these efforts align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to build a future-ready and globally competitive workforce.

Addressing the skills gap

“THE upskilling program targets workers in transportation, construction, industrial, and agricultural sectors,” Cañete said. “These industries support local livelihoods, but face skills gaps such as limited ability to operate computer-aided tools, automated systems, and modern diagnostic equipment as operations shift to technologydriven systems.”

Industry data, he mentioned, show that upgraded tools now use laser-guided and precision technologies.

“However, limited technical know-how leaves equipment such as laser leveling machines and

Aligned pathways, seamless transition from SHS to college championed in enhanced curriculum

THE Department of Education (DepEd) will commence the implementation of the Strengthened Senior High School (SSHS) curriculum for Grade 11 in both private and public SHSs this coming School Year (SY) 2026 to 2027.

The enhanced program aims to streamline tracks and subjects for clarity and efficiency, expand student choice to align education with individual aspirations, reinforce the foundations for optimal success in life, enhance employability by positioning education in line with industry needs, and establish stackable and seamless learning pathways.

The revised curriculum introduces two tracks only: Academic and Technical Professional or “TechPro.” Electives related to Arts and Design and to Sports will still be offered, but will be categorized under the Academic track.

From 15 courses, there will now only be five core subjects: Effective Communication/ Mabisang Komunikasyon, Life Skills, General Mathematics, General Science, and Pag-aaral ng Kasaysayan at Lipunang Pilipino.

Learners can now explore a wider range of electives aligned with their interests, career goals, and developing competencies, while the four SHS exits remain: higher education, employment, entrepreneurship, and middle-level skills development.

Pilot institution

DE LA SALLE-COLLEGE OF SAINT BENILDE (DLSCSB) was among the few private institutions selected to pilot the SSHS curriculum since SY 2025–2026. Following its successful implementation for Grade 11, Benilde will continue the enactment of the enhanced program up to Grade 12 beginning next school year.

During Bridging Pathways—an online discussion held in partnership with DepEd—Benilde Senior High School (BSHS) and Benilde Deaf School (BDS) Principal Michael Lewis Ong LPT, MBio assured the parents, fellow administrators and teachers from other schools that the revised curriculum is a “positive change.”

More than just following the new program, Ong explained that the learning institution took the initiative to structure the new curriculum to provide a seamless transition for SHS students to pursue their tertiary education in DLS-CSB.

According to him, DLS-CSB introduced specially designed pathways under Academic and TechPro to

accommodate students who wish to expand their knowledge of architecture, general science, management, entrepreneurship, culinary, diplomacy and governance, media production, and theater and performance arts.

“We want to make sure that when we take the opportunity to structure the new curriculum, it is still aligned with our college offerings because, of course, the goal is to avoid repetition as much as possible,” he explained.

For Grade 12 students, the principal championed Benilde’s decongested schedule, which includes four to five subjects per term—a big shift from the previous eight subjects per term.

This, according to him, is a “welcome” change for the students’ well-being.

“We are conscious of their mental health…As an inclusive institution, we saw this as an opportunity to really lighten their load,” he explained. “By Grade 12, they can focus more on their grades and interests—they can already start preparing for what they want to [do] next: whether it is enrolling in higher education, or entering the workforce.”

‘Four-one’ setup

ONG likewise shared that Benilde SHS follows a fourone setup: Four days of face-to-face onsite classes from Mondays through Thursdays, while Fridays are allotted for independent learning where students can catch up on academic requirements, schedule makeup classes, or rest when they finish their work earlier.

“Our teachers are always ready to shift online,” he added. “There is no need to worry; we are always ready.”

The entrance examination is waived for Benilde SHS graduates who wish to pursue their tertiary education in Benilde. Their electives from SHS can likewise be credited when they transition to college.

During the session, Benilde Chancellor Benhur Ong MBA noted that the SSHS curriculum signals a clear and necessary shift—one that calls for deeper competencies, greater adaptability, and a more future-ready generation of learners.

“Our selection as a pilot school is both an honor and a responsibility, one that affirms our readiness and, more importantly, our commitment to lead,” the chancellor stated. “It means that we are not merely implementing change; we are also helping to shape it.” Visit https://www.benilde.edu.ph/programs/seniorhigh-school/ for more information about Benilde SHS.

digital measuring devices underused, slowing productivity,” according to the TESDA official.

Cañete explained that TESDA aligns its training with emerging technologies and national standards under the “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda to address these gaps.

Its programs, the administrator said, equip workers with skills to operate modern machinery, transforming traditional laborers into techcapable operators.

He added: “TESDA also expands access to training in vulnerable sectors and geographically isolated areas where transport and trade remain vital.”

Impact and economic resilience

A BENEFICIARY of TESDA’s Shielded Metal Arc Welding National Certificate Level II, Christopher Lasarpin said the training improved his welding skills, confidence, and earning potential. It helped him adapt to modern systems and secure a more stable livelihood.

“By translating national policy into accessible training, TESDA demonstrates how government action directly benefits communities, turning technological disruption into opportunity and ensuring no worker is left behind,” Cañete said.

Alyssa Faye F. Rallos/PIA-10/Bukidnon

Globe, CANVAS bring online safety, AI education to families

GLOBE TELECOM recently partnered with Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development (CANVAS) to host “The Secret Digital Map: Exploring AI and Online Safety for Families”—an interactive learning session held at the National Museum of Fine Arts.

The event brought together children, parents, and educators for a morning of storytelling, guided discussions, and hands-on activities focused on data privacy, artificial intelligence (AI), and responsible technology use. It forms part of Globe’s year-long collaboration with CANVAS at the National Museum, anchored on the children’s book Safe Space: A Kid’s Guide to Data Privacy Designed to make complex digital topics easier to understand, the event used art and narrative to help families talk about online safety in ways that feel relevant and approachable. Through guided activities, participants explored how AI works in everyday life and what families can do to stay safe in digital spaces.

The event aligns with the Safer Internet Day’s global call to build a safer and more respectful online environment, particularly for children and young people. For Globe, it also reflects a long-term commitment to responsible digital citizenship that goes beyond access to include education, protection, and empowerment.

“Children are growing up in a digital-first world,” said Atty. Irish Saladanan-Almeida, who is the chief privacy officer and vice president for AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy at Globe. “As a company that champions responsible digital citizenship, Globe is here to help families navigate that world safely, starting with conversations like this. Our goal is to empower both kids and parents to make smart, informed choices online.”

“Technology creates new ways for children to learn and explore, but it also asks families to stay mindful of privacy, safety, and the choices young people make online,” Privacy Commissioner Atty. Johann Carlos S. Barcena of the National Privacy Commission shared. “At the NPC, we work to protect personal data, especially for children who may not always realize the risks. Conversations like today help families build healthy habits and create safer digital environments at home.”

China university to hire Filipino teachers for Phil. Studies Center

Sallan

NINGBO, CHINA—In line with its newly launched Philippine Studies Center, the Ningbo University of Technology (Ningbotech) is set to hire educators from the Philippines to bolster its growing international academic program.

This was revealed by George Chua-Cham of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) in his keynote during the launch.

“This institution is soon opening its doors to Filipino teachers as a gesture to promote the good relationship of the two countries, being friendly neighbors,” said Chua-Cham, who is the FFCCCII Committee on Government Affairs chairman and legislative liaison.

One of the most respected educational institutions in China’s Zhejiang Province, Ningbotech is a full-time public university managed by the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government, founded by the Ningbo Municipal People’s Government, and supported by Zhejiang University with the ratification of the Ministry of Education. It has developed “a disciplinary and major system, [which] has been set up with a focus on engineering and coor -

dinated development of science, liberal arts, law, economics, and management.” In addition to teaching opportunities, officials of the Ningbo University of Technology Media and Law Department also disclosed that the institution is planning to accept interns from the Philippines.

“We already have students and trainees from different nationalities, including Morocco and Pakistan, but we would be even more proud to welcome Filipinos who will study and train here,” International College Deputy Dean Cheng Meng said during a meeting with BusinessMirror and other members of the Philippine media. Among the degree programs being offered by Ningbotech are International Economics and Trade, Clinical Medicine, Computer Science and Technology, as well as Software Engineering. English is also being used as one of the primary modes of instruction in the institution.

University officials further noted that they are now finalizing the system for hiring Filipino teachers, including qualifications and compensation packages, even as discussions have already been initiated for possible partnerships with educational institutions in the Philippines.

PBEd convenes top business groups, educ. leaders for unified education reform agenda

PHILIPPINE BUSINESS FOR EDUCATION (PBEd) gathered the country’s leading business organizations and key education officials to advance a more coordinated effort to align education with the needs of industry and the evolving workforce.

Held last April 30 at the PHINMA Plaza Roofdeck, the high-level meeting brought together Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara of the Department of Education (DepEd), Commissioner Shirley Agrupis of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Director General Jose Francis Benitez of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Executive Director Karol Mark Yee of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), alongside executives from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., Makati Business Club, Management Association of the Philippines, National Teachers College, and Far Eastern University.

The PBEd leadership dinner served not merely as a dialogue, but as a platform for collective action—reinforcing the business sector’s role not only as employer and investor, but also as a long-term structural partner in national education reform.

“Education reform requires sustained cooperation… We at PBEd are committed to uniting the business community with the government and academia toward a common agenda

of establishing a quality education system that is responsive, coordinated and future-ready,” Executive Director Bal Camua of PBEd said.

“To ensure that the existing gains in the education sector go beyond changes in political leadership, reforms must now be institutionalized through legislation and sustained multi-sector [ties].”

In the discussion, government leaders and EDCOM 2 presented a shared reform agenda anchored on four key pillars: creating unified education and training pathways across DepEd, CHED, and TESDA; implementing a single national assessment system through the Philippine Secondary Assessment; developing interoperable learner and labor market data systems; as well as expanding microcredentials and enterprise-based training programs to support lifelong learning and workforce upskilling.

The meeting also cited priority sectors where reforms and linkages are urgently needed, including advanced manufacturing, digital technology, health and life sciences, tourism and hospitality, financial services, and the creative economy.

“Meaningful education reform is not solely the government’s responsibility, but a shared national effort that requires strong coordination between the public and private sectors,” Camua pointed out. “PBEd remains committed to continuing regular discussions among stakeholders and aligning future engagements with the government to help ensure continuity and accountability.”

Tourism&Entertainment

Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan

WHY MANILA TRANSIT TOURS MATTER

Don’t go straight to the islands just yet

Story & photos by George Ordoña

FIRST impressions count and when tourists arrive, it’s usually the airline, the airport, and the transportation network that they encounter first.

But, the most meaningful experience is the opportunity to join a tour group. Many tourists skip Manila and head off directly to the islands, the beaches, and the mountains. What they don’t realize is that they just missed walking through famous attractions and visiting historic districts.

The Transit Tour was conceived to emphasize the value of an educational, enjoyable and enriching tour of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. International transit passengers from visa-free countries who have a minimum of an 8-hour layover can join  transit tours. A transit tour lasts for 4 hours. A DOT-accredited tour guide will accompany the guests. There will be free time for shopping and eating. An hour each is allowed for travel from airport to destination and back, taking into account potential delays and airport procedures.

Instead of waiting inside the airport for hours, travellers can step out and explore a city even if for only a short time. At their core, Transit Tours are short guided excursions that fit within their layover window. It is convenient and ideal for travellers who may not feel comfortable navigating a new city independently on a tight schedule.

One of the Transit Tours is Intramuros, the Walled City. On the way to Intramuros,  not to be missed is the Rizal Park where you will see the monument of Rizal, one of the national heroes of the Philippines. This is followed by a short hop to Rizal’s execution site and the Gomburza Monument, in honor of the executed priests who inspired the Philippine Revolution.

Arriving in Intramuros, the guests will be brought to Plaza Roma where there will be an orientation on a typical Philippine town plaza which always features

a church and a government office. In the case of Plaza Roma, there is the Manila Cathedral, the seat of the Catholic Church in the Philippines. The Ayuntamiento is now occupied by the Bureau of Treasury, and Palacio del Gobernador now houses the Intramuros Administration, and the Commission on Elections. In the middle is the statue of King Charles IV who brought the small pox vaccine to the Philippines Walking past the Manila Cathedral, a few meters away is the Memorare, which commemorates the departed of the Battle for Manila in 1945.  At the Centro de Turismo Intramuros is a giant screen for the occasional movies. There are valuable artifacts, religious statues, the Manton de Manila, a Recollect retablo, and the Ve -

larde Map, among others. The last part is  Plaza San Luis where you can get a glimpse of the UNESCO World Heritage Site San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the country. After a well-deserved rest and free time, the guests are now ferried back to the airport.

Transit Tours are a growing trend toward maximizing every moment of a journey. It offers a snapshot of the destination without requiring a full trip and encour -

ages tourists to return for a longer visit.  Transit Tour Fee costs 50 USD which includes the services of a  DOT-accredited tour guide, travel insurance, on ground assistance and light refreshments. Other destinations include the National Museum, Okada Manila, and Solaire Resort Entertainment City. This tour is available from Friday to Sunday for Philippine Air Lines passengers. Soon it will expand to other airlines. Book now via +63998-9008010 or LOVEPH@tourism.gov.ph

George “Jing” Ordoña is a travel writer, tour organizer and DOT-accredited tour guide who’s passionate about sharing Manila’s rich history and culture. He’s the operator of ManiLakad, a one-man company that conducts walking tours of historic neighborhoods in Metro Manila, including Intramuros, Binondo, and Quiapo. He can be reached on Viber 09606975930 or Fb messenger, Jing Ordoña

CStory &

by Bless Aubrey Ogerio

HONBURI—There is barely enough time to unpack, settle in and figure out your surroundings before a short trip starts feeling temporary. But Thailand, even in a rushed stay, has a way of making itself felt almost immediately.

I realized that in Chonburi, a coastal province about an hour away from the capital, Bangkok. I arrived wondering how anyone could meaningfully explore a country in less than 24 hours.

Instead, Thailand introduced itself in a peculiar but simple manner. This made me feel that somewhere between brisk walks, Siam may be foreign, but not distant and unfamiliar. And maybe that is what makes the country easy to connect with, even briefly.

But how exactly do you make the most out of the time you have?

Pay attention to ordinary things

“YOU get to know a country through ordinary life” is what I always tell people. Look at what fills their grocery shelves, what people buy after work, what snacks are sold on the streets and what locals casually eat on random weekdays.

Before arriving in Chonburi, I already relied on TikTok, YouTube Shorts and blogs for quick cultural crash courses. I stayed around Sri Racha—the exact place where the famous hot sauce supposedly originated.

Luckily, there was a nearby MaxValu grocery chain and, of course, a 7-Eleven. The trip alone unexpectedly explained the place to me.

Sri Racha is apparently nicknamed “Little Osaka,” which suddenly made sense after

seeing the strong Japanese influence in the area, from restaurants to establishments to the overall atmosphere. Inside convenience stores, I noticed how toasties absolutely deserve the hype. PoySian inhalers were everywhere, like a national symbol. The skincare aisles were packed with quirky, affordable products that honestly made me question local prices back home.

Most available food leaned heavily into seafood and spice. Their fruits were refreshing, though I’m still accustomed to the typical Filipino flavors. The mango sticky rice was good, but the Thai milk tea? That one absolutely lived up to expectations.

Get a little lost

AND one of the best parts of the trip happened because we stopped strictly following plans. At some point, our group just collectively decided: “Tara, lakad tayo.”

Armed with Google Maps and confidence that may or may not have been justified, that was how we discovered food streets, fruit vendors, roadside stalls and what looked like mini tiangge areas hidden around the city.

The most unexpected part, however, was accidentally passing through a red-light district. Honestly, I cannot fully compare it to Poblacion or Malate because the atmosphere felt more openly commercial and touristoriented. It was louder, brighter, and far less subtle than what I expected. Still, moments like that made the place feel less curated and more real.

I will admit: this is better done with company. I was lucky that the Philippine media delegation was game for spontaneous walks, and we even became friends with a Laotian media representative along the way.

Sacrifice a bit of your sleep TRUTHFULLY, we could have easily stayed in and rested after our dinner, as we had an early schedule the next morning. But this was also the only free time we had. So as we stayed out longer and walked around the city, we agreed to return by midnight. After that, I still had to pack my things and organize pasalubong, which took another hour.

Was it tiring? Absolutely. But there is also something rewarding about staying awake long enough to see a place after the official activities end.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with prioritizing rest, especially during hectic trips. But for me, especially in overnight stays, losing a few hours can sometimes mean gaining a deeper sense of a place.

Never ‘not enough’ BUT I would be lying if I said the trip did not leave me wanting more.

Part of me initially felt like my Thailand experience was “bitin” because I was not even in Bangkok and because the stay itself was so short. But eventually, I realized that even if I had spent the same amount of time in the capital, I probably still would have felt the same way.

Because maybe understanding a country was never just about famous landmarks or nightlife districts. Maybe it also happens through observing how ordinary life moves around you.

So no, the trip did not feel complete. But it also did not feel meaningless. If anything, it made me want to return. And maybe that is the best thing an overnight stay can do: leave you curious enough to come back.

A10 Saturday, May 23, 2026

Editor: Angel R. Calso

‘Grave indicator’: Attack on UAE nuclear plant shows expanding role of Iranian militias in Iraq

By Sam Dagher

THE attack on a nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates raised fears about the scope of Iran’s retaliation to a US resumption of strikes, with experts highlighting the greater role Iran-backed militias in Iraq are playing in the war.

The UAE said this week that a drone attack targeting its Barakah plant on Sunday was launched from Iraq, condemning it as a “terrorist” act. Anwar Gargash, a senior adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed, blamed “Iranian militias in Iraq” for the incident, in a social media post. It’s “a grave indicator of the scale of the threat facing the region,” Gargash said of the incident, that forced the plant to

activate backup power, one of the last lines of defense to maintain nuclear safety.

Barakah is the Middle East’s largest nuclear power plant and one of two active in the region—Bushehr in southern Iran is the second. While there were no reported casualties or abnormal radiation levels as a result of the attack, it underscored the vulnerability of civilian infrastructure to an escalation of hostilities in the region.

“This was a warning shot by Iran,” of what might be in store for the UAE and the rest of the Gulf if hostilities with Israel and the US reignited, said Mohammed Baharoon, director of the Dubai Public Policy Research Center, or B’huth. “It’s also a way for Iran to keep pressure on Gulf states and tell them ‘you won’t be immune and even if

we don’t attack you directly, our proxies will’,” he added.

Neither Iran nor its proxies in Iraq claimed responsibility for the attack on Barakah or the three drones launched from Iraq toward Saudi Arabia around the same time, which authorities said were intercepted.

The US and Iran are seeking to turn a fragile ceasefire agreed on April 8 into a more permanent end to fighting, but have yet to reach an agreement. US President Donald Trump has swung between more optimistic comments on the chances of a deal and threats of renewed strikes, which Tehran warns will be met with a more powerful response, reaching beyond the Middle East.

Iraqi militias tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are playing an increasingly significant role in Iran’s confrontation with the US and Israel and have claimed responsibility for hundreds of missile and drone attacks on US interests in Iraq and neighboring Gulf states. Kataib Hezbollah and Harakat Hezbollah AlNujaba, two of the militias, are seen as de facto units of the IRGC by many experts.

“These groups are under direct orders from the IRGC to be part of Iran’s war

effort, which includes targeting the Gulf,” said Renad Mansour, deputy director of the Middle East and North Africa Program at London-based think tank Chatham House.

Independent conflict monitor ACLED said it recorded more than 65 incidents involving Iraqi militias targeting Gulf countries during the conflict, a figure it said is almost certainly an underestimate.

“Many attacks originating from Iraq are never publicly claimed, and distinguishing between attacks directly conducted by

to both Israel and the US.

“Iran is trying to showcase to Gulf states that they’re not out of the woods yet, so they can pressure the Trump administration not to attack,” she said.

The UAE was the target of nearly 60% of the some 5,000 missiles and drones launched by Iran against Gulf states since the start of the war on Feb. 28. It responded to Tehran’s aggression on at least two occasions in March and April in coordination with the US and Israel, Bloomberg has reported.

Iran and those carried out by Iraqi militias remains extremely difficult,” ACLED said in a statement.

Dania Thafer, executive director of the Gulf International Forum, a Washingtonbased think tank, said that attacks carried out through Iraqi proxies give Iran “a degree of plausible deniability,” but they are still a clear warning by Tehran that it’s ready to target critical infrastructure if needed.

The UAE’s specifically, she said, given the country’s hawkish posture and proximity

Attacks by Iran’s proxies in Iraq against Gulf Arab neighbors like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and most recently the UAE represent a “disaster” for the country’s newly sworn in prime minister, Ali al-Zaidi, Chatham House’s Mansour said. They undermine efforts by Iraq to forge closer economic and political ties with Gulf states. The prime minister’s office issued a statement condemning the attacks on the UAE and Saudi Arabia and formed a highlevel committee to investigate the incident, but Mansour sees Zaidi as having limited power to control or rein in these militias. “Iraq is very much now part of the battle,” he said. With assistance from Khalid Al-Ansary/Bloomberg

Residents burn an Ebola treatment center in Congo as anger grows over the outbreak

By Justin Kabumba, Monika Pronczuk & Gerald Imray

The Associated Press

BUNIA, Congo—People set fire to an Ebola treatment center in a town at the heart of the outbreak in eastern Congo on Thursday after being stopped from retrieving the body of a local man, a witness and a senior police officer said, as fear and anger grow over a health crisis that doctors are struggling to contain. The arson attack in Rwampara reflects the challenges of health workers trying to curb a rare Ebola virus by using stringent measures that might clash with local customs, such as burial rites. The disease has been spreading for weeks in a region lacking in adequate health facilities and where many people are on the move to escape armed conflicts.

The bodies of those who die from Ebola can be highly contagious and lead to further spread when people prepare bodies for burial and gather for funerals. The dangerous work of burying suspected victims is being managed wherever possible by authorities, which can be met by protests from victims’ families and friends.

Fear and anger grow THE center in Rwampara was burned by local youths who became angry while trying to retrieve the body of a friend who had apparently died of Ebola, according to a witness who spoke to The Associated Press by telephone.

“The police intervened to try to calm the situation, but unfortunately they were unsuccessful,” said Alexis Burata, a local student who said he was in the area. “The young people ended up setting fire to the center. That’s the situation.”

An AP journalist saw people break into the center and set fire to objects inside and also to what appeared to be the body of at least one suspected Ebola victim that was being stored there. Aid workers fled the treatment center in vehicles.

Deputy Senior Commissioner Jean Claude Mukendi, head of the public security department in Ituri Province, said the youths had not understood the protocols for burying a suspected Ebola victim.

“His family, friends, and other young people wanted to take his body home for a funeral even though the instructions from the authorities during this Ebola virus outbreak are clear,” Mukendi said.

“All bodies must be buried according to the regulations.”

Hama Amadou, field coordinator for the humanitarian organization ALIMA, which had teams working at the center, said later that calm had been restored and that aid teams were continuing their work at the center.

The flash of anger underlined the complications faced by both Congolese authorities and an array of aid agencies trying to stem an outbreak that the World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern.

The outbreak is bigger than official figures show, WHO says THERE were 160 suspected deaths and 671 suspected cases in Congo’s two provinces, Congolese authorities said on Thursday. Earlier in the week, the U.N. said there were two cases including one death in neighboring Uganda.

But the WHO has said the outbreak is

almost certainly much larger and has also expressed concern over the speed of the spread.

“We are still in the phase where we are intensifying the investigation, searching for cases,” said Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “I expect the number of cases to increase as surveillance becomes more and more rigorous.”

The risk of the outbreak spreading globally is low, the WHO has said, but high regionally with the Ituri Province at the center of the outbreak bordering Uganda and South Sudan.

Early detection of the virus is key in saving lives, but the region’s already weak health infrastructure and surveillance capacity has been further weakened by international aid cuts, experts say. There are over 920,000 internally displaced people in Ituri Province, according to the U.N. Armed conflict in the region further complicates efforts to handle the crisis. Local leaders said an attack by militants

linked to the Islamic State group killed at least 17 people on Tuesday in Alima, a village in Ituri.

Health workers and aid groups have said they are in dire need of more supplies and staff to respond. Also, there is no available vaccine or medicine for the Bundibugyo strain responsible for the outbreak.

An expert said this week it would be at least six to nine months before one would be available.

“The priority now is to act quickly and work closely with communities, as the coming days are critical,” said Ariel Kestens, the head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies delegation in Congo.

Ebola is highly contagious and spreads in people through contact with bodily fluids such as vomit, blood, feces or semen. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain and at times internal and external bleeding.

It has spread to a new province

ON Thursday, the M23 rebel group that controls parts of eastern Congo reported that a person had died of the disease near the city of Bukavu, some 500 kilometers (310 miles) south of the outbreak’s epicenter in Ituri Province.

It was the first case confirmed in South Kivu Province, and another case was reported there later in the day. Previously, cases had been reported only in Ituri and North Kivu provinces and in neighboring Uganda.

The virus spread undetected for weeks following the first known death in late April

as Congolese health authorities tested for a different Ebola virus more commonly responsible for outbreaks in the country. Health officials have not yet found “patient zero,” according to the WHO. The scale of the outbreak so far suggests it “started probably a couple of months ago,” said Anaïs Legand, a viral hemorrhagic fevers expert at the WHO.

The outbreak has had international repercussions INDIA and the African Union said Thursday that the India-Africa Forum Summit, scheduled to be held next week in New Delhi, had been postponed due to the “evolving health situation in parts of Africa.”

On Wednesday, Congo’s soccer team canceled a three-day World Cup preparation training camp and a planned farewell to fans in the capital Kinshasa because of the Ebola outbreak.

The US government has placed restrictions on any travelers who have visited Congo, Uganda or South Sudan in the previous 21 days, barring foreign visitors among them from entering the US and requiring US citizens and permanent residents to be diverted to Washington Dulles International Airport for screening.

Pronczuk reported from Dakar, Senegal and Imray from Cape Town, South Africa. Associated Press writers Jamey Keaten in Geneva; Jean Yves Kamale in Kinshasa, Congo; and Wilson McMakin in Dakar, Senegal contributed to this report.

OFFICIALS from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and Pag-IBIG Fund conducted a site inspection and ceremonial turnover of housing units under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program in Cabuyao, Laguna, on Thursday, May 21. The activity highlighted the government’s continuing efforts to help more Filipino families gain access to decent and affordable housing.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling and Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta, together with other government officials and private sector representatives, inspected Pasinaya Heights, one of the pioneering condominium developments in South Luzon under the Expanded 4PH Program.

During the event, Aliling, who also chairs the Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees, said the ceremonial turnover reflects the Marcos administration’s commitment to make homeownership more accessible to more Filipinos.

To date, nearly 300 Pag-IBIG Fund members have already purchased units in Pasinaya Heights through Pag-IBIG Fund’s affordable home financing program.

“President Marcos has been clear in his directive: decent and affordable housing must be brought closer to Filipino families, especially workers who need government support the most. Pasinaya Heights shows what can be achieved when government, Pag-IBIG Fund, and responsible private developers work together. Through the Expanded 4PH Program, we are turning the President’s housing directive into actual homes that Filipino workers can afford,” Aliling said.

The 2.5-hectare socialized condominium development consists of

four seven-story residential towers with more than 2,700 housing units. It also features amenities such as a swimming pool, covered basketball court, playground, day care center, health care center, and open spaces for residents.

Acosta said Pasinaya Heights shows how the Expanded 4PH Program and the Pag-IBIG Housing Loan work together to help Filipino workers own homes through affordable monthly payments. With the program’s subsidized 3% interest rate during the first five years, an eligible borrower buying a Pasinaya Heights unit valued at P1.404 million may pay about P5,919 per month. This is lower than the P8,644 monthly amortization under Pag-IBIG Fund’s regular housing loan rate, and is also below many condominium rental rates in nearby Laguna areas.

“Every peso saved from monthly housing payments matters to our members. It can help pay for food, education, health care, utilities and other daily needs of the family. Through the Expanded 4PH Program and Pag-IBIG Fund’s subsidized Housing Loan rate for socialized homes, Filipino workers now have a real and practical path to owning a safe and decent home. In doing so, we help ease the monthly burden of Filipino families, bring homeownership within their reach, and allow them to build a better future under a Bagong Pilipinas,” Acosta said. Acosta likewise recognized Joy~Nostalg Hearth Corporation for its continued partnership with PagIBIG Fund in advancing socialized housing projects nationwide. She noted that the developer has consistently been recognized among Pag-IBIG Fund’s top-performing partners, reflecting its significant contribution to expanding access to affordable housing for Filipino workers.

Que triumphs in wild Caliraya Springs finale

ANGELO QUE showed the poise of a seasoned assassin as Keanu Jahns saw his title defense evaporate in a single, agonizing hole in the final round Friday of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Caliraya Springs Championship in Cavinti, Laguna. In a bizarre twist of fate, the Filipino-German Jahns suffered a monumental collapse on the par-5 No. 4 of the Caliraya Springs Golf Club, holing out with a catastrophic 11. In the blink of an eye, the defending champion was dethroned, throwing the tournament into absolute anarchy and opening the door for at least six players to make a legitimate run at the title. But while the rest of the field scrambled in the sudden power vacuum, Que emerged strongest—the reigning Order of Merit champion saw opportunity and cool under fire, ignited a blistering back-nine assault.

After lurking just off the pace in a leaderboard scramble that felt like musical chairs, he finally made his definitive move—he opened the back side with a sensational birdie-pareagle-birdie blitz to surge two strokes ahead of Tony Lascuña, who was playing a group behind.

But the leaderboard flipped just as quickly and Lascuña answered with his own back-to-back birdie run from No. 13 to catch Que, then grabbed a one-shot lead when Que took a costly bogey on the par-five 16th for the second consecutive day. Yet, the former three-time Asian Tour Order of Merit winner refused to crack.

Closing out in style, Que rolled in a clutch 10-foot birdie putt on the tricky 72nd hole for a 66 and suddenly, he was back on top of the leaderboard at 18-under 270 after Lascuña flubbed a short three-footer for par on the No. 17—a nightmarish error mirroring the one that stalled his charge on the ninth. When Lascuña failed to convert his birdie try on the 18th to force a playoff and settled for a 69 and a 271, Que officially crowned himself the new Caliraya Springs champion, claiming the hotly-disputed crown and banking the top purse of P450,000. It was a fittingly dramatic end to a week battled out in the sun, rain and wind, capping a finale replete with suspense, twists, and turns in what may well be the most unpredictable finish in Philippine Golf Tour history.

“I wasn’t pressured at all when I fell behind by one and needed a

birdie on the last hole to give myself a chance,” said Que, leaning on the vast experience and numerous championship runs that have defined his illustrious career. “I just played the last hole the way it should be played.”

Still, the tension lingered until the very last roll of the ball.

Desperate to redeem himself from his earlier putting missteps, Lascuña gave himself a 15-foot birdie opportunity on the 18th to force a playoff, but the ball missed the cup, leaving Lascuña contorted in frustration, a heart-breaking end to a P2.5 million tournament he had controlled in the first two days.

Guido van der Valk carded a 68 to claim third place at 272, while Sean Ramos rallied with a 67 to snatch fourth at 273. Close behind was Zanieboy Gialon, who posted a 274 after a 72—the razor-thin, one-stroke margins underscoring just how tight and unpredictable the finale proved to be.

Jahns struggled to a 75, ultimately finishing sixth at 276. While the drama and suspense didn’t dissipate until the very last putt, Jahns’ nightmare on the fourth proved just as defining for the tournament as Que’s spectacular comeback victory.

Palawan Open fires off Sunday at Rizal courts

TAs Jahns tumbled down the leaderboard, van der Valk surged to the top at 16-under with a birdie on No. 8 as Lascuña and Gialon sat just a shot behind, with Que laying another stroke adrift.

Ramos also thrust himself into contention with a blistering 4-under card through just six holes, alongside Aidric Chan, who carded back-toback birdies starting from the fourth.

At the turn, van der Valk and Lascuña shared the lead at 16-under, but Que soon bypassed both with a roaring start to the back nine, claiming a two-stroke cushion—a fragile advantage in a heated battle among the Tour’s big guns.

In a bizarre, gut-wrenching turnaround that shook the gallery to

its core, Jahns’ bid for back-to-back titles literally vanished in the dreaded Caliraya wind on the fourth—a hole he had utterly mastered with two eagles and a birdie over the first three days.

HE Palawan Open 2026 fires off on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center promising one of the most competitive and record-setting editions of the championship in recent years.

Featuring an international cast and a P2 million prize pool, the tournament is expected to deliver high-level action throughout the week.

India’s Digvijay Pratap Singh, who reached a career-high Association of Tennis Professionals singles ranking of No. 485, headlines the stacked field and is determined to assert his dominance against a formidable local contingent led by some of the country’s top players, including multi-titled AJ Lim and Eric Jed Olivarez. Asian Games veteran and former junior Grand Slam campaigner Casey Alcantara also joins a formidable local cast set to test their mettle against a strong international field in. Joining Lim, Olivarez and Alcantara are John Benedict Aguilar, Nilo Ledama, Vicente Anasta, Arthur Pantino, John Kendrick Bona and Ronard Joven, along with Jarell Edangga, Lance Fernandez, Noel Salupado and Loucas Fernandez. The men’s singles champion will earn P300,000, with the runner-up receiving P150,000 and the

semifinalists taking home P100,000 each. The women’s singles titlist, meanwhile, will pocket P100,000. To accommodate the overwhelming number of entries, the organizing Palawan Group of Companies  conducted a three-day qualifying tournament ahead of the main draw also at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center drawing more than 300 hopefuls Presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, Gentry and Bagong Pilipinas, the blueribbon event is supported and sanctioned by the Philippine Tennis Association and Universal Tennis Rating.

“This tournament is more than just a competition—it is an investment in the future of Philippine tennis,” said Bobby Castro, founder and chairman of Palawan Group of Companies. “We want to give Filipino players consistent opportunities to compete at a high level here at home, expose them to internationalcaliber matches and inspire the next generation of champions.”

UNBEATEN Charly Suarez fights American Manuel Avila on July 11 for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) international super featherweight belt in a 10-round bout under promoter Sampson Boxing at the Civic Center in San Francisco, California. Instead of a mandatory rematch with unified super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete, the 37-year-old Rio de Janeiro Olympian told the BusinessMirror on Friday that his mandatory rematch with the Mexican will be in August or September.

“Everything is good with me and my new promoter, and Top Rank about my upcoming fight with Manuel Avila,” Suarez said. “It’s not going to be an easy fight because Avila wants to prove something too.”

“I do not like to talk about Navarrete this time because I must focus on Avila, one fight at a time,” he added. Suarez, undefeated in 18 fights with 10 knockouts, returned to Las Vegas last week to start training camp with

trainer and manager Delfin Boholst. He almost became a world champion last May 2025 when he lost to Navarrete via technical decision from a head butt—the fight was later declared a no contest by the WBO and California Athletic State Commission, noting that the decision should be a technical knockout win by Suarez. Navarrete, on the other hand, is coming off an 11th-round technical knockout victory over compatriot Eduardo Nunez last February 28 in Glendale, Arizona, to unify the WBO and International Boxing Federation super featherweight belts. It may a little bit tempting for Suarez to think forward about his unification fight with Navarrete, but his concentration is on Avila first.

“Cannot deny that I am thinking about Navarrete, but my focus is what in front of me: Avila. I must improve everything in my boxing skills,” he said. Avila, 34, is sporting a 26-2-1 winloss-draw record with nine knockouts. Josef Ramos

Suarez fights American in US, rematch vs Navarette shelved Alas

Batang Ginebra unbeaten in 3 games

Pilipinas men couldn’t bear heat at Nuvali

beach volley tourney

HE Alas Pilipinas men’s team exited the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Nuvali Challenge after withdrawing due to health

Roniel Rosales had a sudden spike in his blood pressure the day before and as a precaution, he and partner Ranran Abdilla decided to pull out from the competition being at the Nuvali Sands Courts in the City of Santa Rosa.

“You could really see that my partner’s body hadn’t fully recovered. He’s feeling a bit better now, but he’s still not in good condition to play,” Abdilla said. “He recovered a little from yesterday, but not enough. His head still aches.”

“I told him that our game is at 10:30 a.m. will be under extreme heat,” Abdilla said. “Maybe he can still play, but the big question is whether or not he can finish the match.” With Abdilla and Rosales out, England’s Frederick Bialokoz and Issa Batrane took a walkover win, 21-0, 210, to advance to the next round of the Nuvali Challenge.

Rosales received medical attention early in the second set of their opening day match against Americans Hagen Smith and Ryan Ierna. Rosales couldn’t continue due to his condition as the host pair yielded the match, 21-10, 3-2. The withdrawal officially sealed the Philippines’s exit in the tournament following the pool play elimination of Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons in the women’s division on Thursday.  In Pool B, Chase Budinger and Trevor Crabb of Team USA completed a two-game sweep with a 21-19, 21-11 triumph over Brazil’s Henrique de Barros and Mateus Rodriges and Austria’s Julian Horl and Laurenc Grossig eliminated Luke de Greeff and Tynan Gannett of Canada, 21-13, 21-15, in Pool B. Israel’s Eylon Elazar and Kevin Cuzmiciov also bagged their second win in Pool A with a 21-15, 21-15