BusinessMIrror October 17, 2026 by BusinessMirror

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Saturday, October 17, 2026 Vol. 22 No. 10

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BUSINESSES BRACE FOR ‘PERFECT STORM’–MAP B

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By Mary Jade Jadormio

USINESSES are bracing for a difficult final quarter as sluggish economic growth, high inflation and elevated energy costs squeeze sales and threaten their ability to stay afloat, according to the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP).

MAP President Donald Patrick Lim said companies are now focused on surviving the year and generating much-needed sales as mounting economic pressures make business operations increasingly difficult. “Business is just generally harder, because of low growth and high inflation. And all of these are becoming a perfect storm of economic challenges,” Lim said. He said the prolonged energy crisis and high oil prices have added to the strain on businesses, with the hoped-for relief from geopolitical tensions yet to materialize. “So right now the discussion is really surviving the year, surviving per month, and how do we generate sales which are very much badly needed,” Lim said.

“We have not yet stabilized food prices because of the energy shock. Now, we have a natural disaster coming that could last for a prolonged period.” — Donald Patrick Lim, MAP president

25 Years The Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) has been in effect for 25 years, according to Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who is calling for its review and possible amendment or replacement to help address high electricity costs.

Continued on A2

Affordable food tops concerns people want govt to address ACTIONS NATIONAL GOVERNMENT LEADERS MUST PRIMARILY DO TO ADDRESS LOCAL COMMUNITY CONCERNS September 17–23, 2026 / Philippines / PR2 (In Percent / Single Answer Only)

In your opinion, what should national government leaders primarily do to address the concerns in your local community? Please choose one answer only. RP

LOCATION

CLASS

NCR

VIS

MIN

ABC

Have more affordable food prices in your area such as for rice, meat, fish

Create more jobs and livelihood opportunities

Lessen or eliminate corruption to provide better services to the community

Provide accessible education and healthcare services

FFORDABLE food remains the top concern Filipinos want the government to address, with worries growing most sharply among the country’s poorest

MAP picks Lance Gokongwei, education advocate Salazar as its Persons of the Year ’26

households as higher food and fuel costs continue to strain family budgets. The latest Pulse Asia survey commissioned by Stratbase Group found that 35 percent of respondents said national government leaders should prioriSee “Food,” A2

See “MAP,” A2

VICTOR ALFONSO A. LIMLINGAN, newly appointed president and chief executive officer of the Social Security System (SSS) LANCE Y. GOKONGWEI and Chito B. Salazar have been named joint Management Persons of the Year for 2026 by the Management Association of the Philippines, recognizing their contributions to business growth and affordable higher education.

US prods WB to direct more resources to poorer states By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

HE United States is pushing the World Bank to direct more financing to poorer countries, a shift in priorities that could affect countries as they move up the income ladder, such as the Philippines. In a virtual press briefing on Friday, US Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs Erin Browne said the Washingtonbased multilateral lender should expand access to resources that countries need to grow.

The United States is a founding member and the largest shareholder of the World Bank. “We’re equally focused on directing financing towards poorer, less creditworthy countries where it can have the greatest impact, while improving competition and transparency in bank finance procurement,” Browne said. The bank’s success should be measured by the economic opportunities it generates and the poverty it alleviates, not just by the amount of funding it provides, Browne said.

INVESTMENT VETERAN LIMLINGAN NAMED NEW SSS PREXY, CEO

NE sustained a business empire spanning consumer goods and aviation; the other expanded access to college education. The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has named Lance Y. Gokongwei and Chito B. Salazar joint Management Persons of the Year for 2026. The last time MAP named two recipients in the same year was in 2010, when Lilia B. de Lima and Ramon R. del Rosario Jr. received the honor. Gokongwei was recognized for building the Gokongwei Group into one of the country’s largest

Source: Pulse Asia

By Malou Talosig Bartolome

MARKET COLORS, PRICE PRESSURES A vendor displays an assortment of vegetables in Quiapo, Manila, as rising food prices, elevated energy costs and sluggish economic growth put pressure on Filipino households and businesses. With consumers prioritizing basic necessities and cutting back on spending, smaller enterprises face a challenging final quarter. The Management Association of the Philippines also warned that the anticipated El Niño could further increase food and utility costs. NONIE REYES

“We’re equally focused on directing financing towards poorer, less creditworthy countries where it can have the greatest impact.”— Erin Browne, US Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs

“That requires greater efficiency, accountability and selectivity in its operations,” the Treasury official added. The United States has made progress in refocusing the World Bank’s development agenda by eliminating ineffective climate finance targets, bolstering the implementation of graduation policies and developing a strategy to diversify vital mineral supply chains, according to Browne. The call comes as countries such as the Philippines seek more flexible financing solutions, like

blended finance and enhanced credit guarantees, from multilateral development banks to support countries transitioning to uppermiddle-income country status. At the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Browne said the organization must address global imbalances and exchange rate policies. “For too long, non-market practices have distorted international trade and capital flows, undermined fair competition, and created negative spillovers for the global economy,” Browne said. “The

NVESTMENT veteran Victor Alfonso A. Limlingan has been appointed as the new president and chief executive officer of the Social Security System (SSS). The state-run pension fund announced President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. appointed Limlingan to the post on Friday. He will replace Robert Joseph M. de Claro, who was recently appointed secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology. Limlingan, who served as commissioner of the Social Security Commission (SSC), will bring his investment and risk management experience to the pension fund. See “SSS,” A2

See “WB,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 63.0490 n JAPAN 0.3991 n UK 83.7102 n HK 8.0346 n CHINA 9.4224 n SINGAPORE 49.1840 n AUSTRALIA 43.6236 n EU 70.7347 n KOREA 0.0470 n SAUDI ARABIA 16.8059 Source: BSP (October 16, 2026)

News BusinessMirror

A2 Saturday, October 17, 2026

BUSINESSES BRACE FOR ‘PERFECT STORM’–MAP Continued from A1

The pressures are also clouding the outlook for the “ber” months, when businesses typically anticipate stronger consumer spending ahead of Christmas. Lim said consumers appear to be holding back on purchases, with households prioritizing basic necessities as their purchasing power weakens. “You go to the malls on Sundays and see if people are buying or going around,” he said. He added that lower-income households may defer spending until closer to Christmas to save for their noche buena. “Everyone will hold on to their money for now. Whatever money they have, they will keep it. Whatever income they earn is just enough to get by, so they will focus on basic necessities,” Lim said. He also pointed to the shrinking middle class and limited government spending as factors weighing on consumption, warning that weaker demand could further constrain businesses’ ability to generate revenue. While large corporations may have some reserves to cushion the impact, Lim said small and medium enterprises could face greater difficulties, particularly those without established brands or strong customer relationships. “They will really feel the hits,” he said, referring to smaller businesses, adding that enterprises dependent on discretionary spending, such as coffee and milk tea

shops, could lose customers as households cut back. Lim said MAP has been working with the Department of Energy and the Energy Regulatory Commission on measures to address electricity costs, although shifting to renewable energy and natural gas would take time to produce substantial relief. High power costs, he added, have also made the Philippines less attractive to investors.

El Niño may compound food, utility costs

MEANWHILE, on El Niño, MAP warned that the anticipated El Niño could intensify the economic pressures facing businesses, particularly through its impact on agricultural production and food prices. “We have not yet stabilized food prices because of the energy shock. Now, we have a natural disaster coming that could last for a prolonged period,” Lim told the BusinessMirror. He called for the government to take the threat seriously and consider establishing a task force if necessary to coordinate preparations and mitigate its effects. “We have to make sure the government is adequately equipped to deal with this,” he said. Beyond agriculture, Lim said prolonged dry conditions could affect electricity and water supplies, adding to the pressure on households and businesses. “Electricity, water and other basic utilities will be affected. It

“I am really looking forward to evaluating and amending, or even replacing, Epira with a more up-to-date energy law.”—Sen. Risa Hontiveros

will hit not just food costs but also our overall way of life,” he told this newspaper. He stressed that the priority should be preventing or minimizing the damage before it materializes, rather than focusing solely on measuring losses after the fact.

Risa: Expand RE capacity

ON the sidelines of the MAP general meeting, Sen. Risa Hontiveros called for a faster expansion of renewable energy capacity to reduce the country’s dependence on imported oil and limit the impact of global energy price shocks on electricity costs. “It is important to reduce, and eventually eliminate, our dependence on oil, particularly imported oil, by ramping up the productive capacity of our renewable energy sources,” Hontiveros

told reporters. She also renewed calls to review the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira), which has been in effect for 25 years, including measures to ease the burden of electricity charges and taxes on vulnerable households. “I am really looking forward to evaluating and amending, or even replacing, Epira with a more up-todate energy law,” Hontiveros said. She said reducing value-added tax on basic electricity consumption among low-use households should be among the measures considered to make power more affordable. “Reducing a regressive tax like VAT on basic electricity consumption is necessary for them to live with some dignity, instead of struggling every day,” the lawmaker said. Hontiveros noted that generation charges and fuel costs account for a larger share of electricity bills than system loss charges, highlighting the need to address the underlying drivers of high power prices. She said removing nontechnical system loss charges was a step in the right direction but noted that these account for only a small portion of the total charges passed on to consumers.

MAP… Continued from A1

diversified conglomerates, expanding Universal Robina Corp.’s international reach and growing Cebu Pacific’s role in making air travel more accessible. MAP also cited his work in education, financial inclusion and health care through the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, GoTyme Bank and the group’s health-related businesses. Salazar, on the other hand, was recognized for advancing affordable higher education for students from low-income families through Phinma Education. It has produced more than 104,000 college graduates and become Southeast Asia’s largest private education network serving underserved learners, according to MAP. He was also cited for receiving the London-based Education Leaders Forum Fellowship, which recognizes contributions that have transformed education. MAP’s award recognizes business and government leaders for management excellence, contributions to national development and leadership that can serve as a model for others. Selection is open to both MAP members and nonmembers. The association said the distinction has been conferred 51 times. Bless Aubrey Ogerio

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WB…

Food…

fund must be more assertive in identifying these distortions and addressing the beggar-thy-neighbor policies that contribute to them.” Browne said Washington has been a leader in supporting the IMF’s concessional lending operations and has encouraged other members to fulfill their commitments to ensure the sustainability of these facilities, “These countries need credible reform and financing programs that address underlying vulnerabilities, restore stability, and establish the conditions for lasting growth,” she added. Browne is in Bangkok, Thailand, for the IMF-WB annual meetings and will head to the 2026 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Hong Kong, where it intends to promote fair competition and secure trade and investment flows across the Asia-Pacific. Browne said industrial subsidies and non-market practices and policies were challenges affecting all economies beyond the United States. “Having collective discussion around this and having potential action around this will serve all of our economies, particularly those in the Apec region, quite well,” she added.

tize making food more affordable, particularly staples such as rice, meat and fish. The figure was higher than the 30 percent recorded in July, underscoring the growing public anxiety over the rising cost of living. The concern was especially pronounced among the poorest Filipinos. More than half, or 55 percent, of respondents from socioeconomic Class E identified affordable food as their top concern, up 11 percentage points from July. The sharp increase suggests that low-income households are bearing the brunt of rising prices amid an oil-driven inflation surge, as these families spend a larger share of their income on food and transportation. The survey was conducted as inflation accelerated to 7.2 percent in September from 6.1 percent in August, ending four months of easing price pressures. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, food inflation also climbed to 6.8 percent from 4.6 percent, driven by higher prices of rice, fish and seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Food and non-alcoholic beverages accounted for the largest share of overall inflation at 35.8 percent.

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SSS…

Continued from A1

As commissioner, Limlingan headed the commission’s Risk Management and Actuary Committee and served on its Investment Committee, Contribution and Collection Committee and Corporate Governance Committee. The SSC oversees SSS policy, provides management direction and exercises quasi-judicial functions involving social security coverage, benefits, contributions and penalties under Republic Act 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018. “As the new SSS Chief, Limlingan will prioritize the enhancement and expansion of member loan programs, the improvement of the investment portfolio’s riskadjusted returns, and the relaunch of the Pension Booster Program,” the pension fund said. Limlingan is managing director of Regina Capital Development Corp. He previously served on the board of the state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines and chaired the Risk Oversight Committee. He also served as senior vice president of Small Business Corp. and worked on financial-recovery initiatives for small enterprises and treasury investment optimization. Early in his career, Limlingan provided consultancy services to the Department of Economic, Planning and Development, then known as the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies, majoring in history and humanities, from the Ateneo de Manila University. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

Continued from A1

“The public has been consistently telling government what matters most to them: the rising cost of basic goods and the ability to make ends meet. If the administration wants to rebuild public trust, it has to address these everyday concerns and deliver results that Filipinos can actually feel in their homes and communities.”—Stratbase Group President and CEO Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit

Pulse Asia likewise found that 71 percent of Filipinos want the Marcos administration to focus on controlling inflation, highlighting the extent to which rising prices have become a national concern. By location, concern over food affordability was highest in Metro Manila at 43 percent, followed by Luzon at 36 percent, Mindanao at 34 percent and the Visayas at 31 percent. Creating more jobs and livelihood opportunities ranked second among respondents’ priorities at 26 percent, while reducing or eliminating corruption came in third at 24 percent. Although concern over corruption fell from 28 percent in July and 31 percent in December 2025, the issue remained a major concern nationwide, particularly in the Visayas, where 30 percent of respondents cited it as a priority, and in the National Capital Region at 27 percent. Stratbase Group President and CEO Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit said the findings underscore the need for government policies to produce tangible benefits that Filipinos can immediately feel. “The public has been consistently telling government what matters most to them: the rising cost of basic goods and the ability to make ends meet. If the administration wants to rebuild public trust, it has to address these everyday concerns and deliver results that Filipinos can actually feel in their homes and communities,” Manhit said. “The fact that food affordability is the top concern, particularly among the poorest Filipinos, should be a strong signal for government. Economic policies must translate into real relief for families who are struggling with the cost of basic necessities,” he added. Accessible education and health-care services ranked fourth among respondents’ priorities at 15 percent, slightly higher than the July reading. The nationwide survey was conducted from September 17 to 23 among 2,400 respondents and carried a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points. Respondents were asked to identify the single most important action national government leaders should undertake to address concerns in their local communities. With a report by Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

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Saturday, October 17, 2026

Cebu dangles fee waivers, faster processing to tourism businesses By Carmel Pedroza

EBU CITY—Tourism businesses in Central Visayas can obtain government accreditation w ithout pay ing processing fees, giving establishments and service providers an opportunity to meet industry standards, strengthen consumer confidence and improve their access to domestic and international markets, the Department of Tourism in Region 7 (DOT-7) said. DOT-7 is encouraging tourism enter prises to take advantage of the continuing fee waiver and simplified documentar y requirements as t he reg ion’s accredited establishments inc re a s e a nd t he go v e r n me nt pushes for improved ser v ice quality and tourist safety. “Accreditation opens up a full range of Asean-aligned support for businesses, entrepreneurs, and practitioners, and promotes solid tourist safety industr ywide,” said Gelena Asis-Dimpas, DOT-7 officer in charge and regional director. Asis-Dimpas said accreditation provides businesses with access to government-led capacity-building

programs, trade events and market promotion initiatives while helping establish common standards across the tourism sector. Accredited enterprises may participate in DOT training programs, travel and tourism expos, and market activation activities. They may also gain greater exposure through the department’s official promotional platforms, including the recently launched Discover More to Love campaign, which links registered tourism enterprises to the DOT’s network of 12 foreign offices and five market representatives overseas. The program offers businesses, particularly those seeking to expand their customer base, a way to benefit from government tourism promotion without shouldering accreditation processing costs. Asis-Dimpas said accreditation also facilitates coordination between tourism operators and other government agencies, allowing qualified establishments to be endorsed for specific privileges and operational requirements. These include the endorsement of hotels and restaurants to the Commission on Elections for possible exemption from the liquor

ban during election campaigns, as well as referrals to embassies and travel trade associations for consideration as accommodation facilities or event venues. Tourist land transport operators may also be endorsed to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in connection with vehicle franchise applications. Beyond compliance, accreditation provides the tourism industry with a channel to contribute to policy development. According to A sis-Dimpas, broader par t icipat ion among tourism enterprises can help the government formulate regulations that respond more effectively to the sector’s changing requirements.

Accreditation base grows

AS of Sept. 30, 2026, Central Visayas had 3,500 DOT-accredited tourism establishments, up 24.8 percent from the 2,804 recorded on the same date last year. The increase shows the growing participation of businesses in a system that covers not only accommodation providers but also other tourism-related services,

including transport operators. Water transport has emerged as one area of growing participation. The DOT-7 reported that 263 water transport operators across the region had secured accreditation as of the end of September. These operators manage a combined fleet of 560 motorized boats used for activities such as island hopping and diving. The figures underscore the importance of establishing service and safety standards in a region where island destinations and marine activities are integral to the tourism economy. Marlon Barrientos, chief of the DOT-7 Tourism Regulations Division, urged travelers and travel agents to verify the accreditation status of tourism establishments and service providers before making reservations or purchasing tour packages. Accreditation is mandatory under Republic Act 9593, or the Tourism Act of 2009, for primary tourism enterprises such as hotels, resorts, travel agencies, and land and water tourist transport operators. For travelers, checking accreditation can help them determine

whether a provider has undergone the department’s assessment process. For businesses, compliance can support credibility and demonstrate their commitment to recognized operating standards.

Digitalization eases compliance

THE DOT-7 has also been using digital tools and local government partnerships to make accreditation more accessible, particularly to operators that may face difficulties completing the process through conventional channels. Appl ic at ions m ay be f i led through the department’s online accreditation portal at accreditation.tourism.gov.ph. The regional office also conducts Mobile Accreditation Caravans in coordination with local government units, bringing application assistance closer to tourism enterprises in their respective communities. Barrientos said the streamlined procedures are intended to reduce the burden on applicants and encourage wider participation. The fee waiver is another measure designed to lower the cost of compliance. Accreditation previously entailed

annual processing fees that could reach thousands of pesos for larger establishments. The waiver was introduced under DOT Memorandum Circular No. 2022-001 as part of efforts to help tourism businesses resume operations following the Covid-19 pandemic. Its continued implementation, with no specified end date, is intended to sustain support for the sector. The policy also complements the national government’s Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT), established under Executive Order No. 110 to help households and businesses manage economic pressures arising from the Middle East crisis. Fo r C e nt r a l V i s a y a s , t h e cha l lenge is to translate the growing number of accredited enter prises into more consistent ser vice quality and stronger safeguards for visitors. By removing application fees and simplif ying access, the DOT-7 is seeking to broaden participation in the accreditation system while encouraging travelers to make informed choices when booking tourism ser vices.

DA, DTI file joint bid to secure Rising input costs, drought to shrink ’26 coffee output trademark for PHL purple yam By Ada Pelonia

FTER banning exports of fresh purple yam to protect its planting materials, the Philippines is seeking to outflank its rivals by securing a trademark for local ube. This, after the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) filed a joint application for a certification mark on Philippine ube with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (Ipophl) last October 1. DA Assistant Secretary Joycel Panlilio told the B usiness M irror that securing this designation ensures that products labeled with “Philippine ube” meet strict quality and food safety standards and genuinely originate from the Philippines. “The market for Philippine ube is expanding. Hence, securing a certification mark for Philippine ube is crucial,” she told this newspaper on Thursday. “By preventing unfair competition and the misuse of the name, the certification mark protects Filipino farmers and producers. Furthermore, it boosts consumer trust and opens up greater commercial opportunities in both local and international markets.” Ipophl describes certification marks as a special type of trademark indicating that goods and services meet the standards set by a certifying body. Under the rules, a certification mark is any sign used in commerce to certify “regional or other geographic origin, material, mode of manufacture, quality, accuracy or other characteristics of someone’s goods or services, or that the work or labor on goods or services was performed by members of a group or associations.” The B usiness M irror broke the story that

the Philippines slapped an indefinite ban on exports of fresh ube to safeguard the country’s planting material given the stiff competition among producers to meet booming global demand. (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2026/09/11/ phl-bans-exports-of-purple-yam-asglobal-demand-soars/) The DA’s ban, through a memorandum issued by the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) last August 14, excludes outbound shipments of processed ube, such as powder, halaya, paste, and other valueadded forms.

Tackle bottlenecks

MEANWHILE, DA Development Management Officer IV Rose Marie Castillo disclosed that the agency has created a technical working group (TWG) to tackle bottlenecks hounding the industry and position ube as a major export crop. “There are different challenges that we have to address. Some of these are [in] production, research and development, product development, and so on,” Castillo said during a recent webinar organized by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). She added that the TWG is composed of five committees aimed at handling the respective challenges that choke off ube production. This includes research and production and standards for raw materials; research and standards for processed products; product development; market development; and market regulation and facilitation. Castillo said each committee is led by DA offices in coordination with state universities and colleges (SUCs) to aid in research and development (R&D) and boost local output.

Italian firms size up Luzon Economic Corridor projects By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

EN Italian companies are exploring potential roles in the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC), including transpor t, energy and engineering projects, as Manila seeks to draw financing and technical expertise for the site. The Depar tment of Finance (DOF) announced Friday that the delegation included firms such as Fincantieri, CESI SpA, SIAD Macchine Impianti and MERMEC Group, whose activities span transportation, energy, water, shipbuilding, underwater technologies, irrigation and engineering services. However, no investment commitments

were announced. Italy’s trade and financial institutions Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, SIMEST, SACE and the Italian Trade Agency also participated in the mission. The Philippine LEC Core Team presented projects where Italian companies could contribute through financing, technical assistance, technology, expertise, direct investment and partnerships. On the other hand, the North-South Commuter Railway was among the infrastructure projects highlighted by the DOF as part of the country’s project pipeline. “We welcome all investments in the country, especially those that create good, See “Economic,” A4

OMESTIC coffee output could slip below 30,000 metric tons (MT) in 2026 on the back of surging input costs and the impact of El Niño on plantations. Pacita Juan, chair of the Philippine Coffee Board (PCB), said the country’s coffee production this year might not reach the 30,000 MT mark due to compounding factors that beset the sector. If the forecast materializes, this would post a decline from the 35,645 MT last year, based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The last time the country’s coffee output fell below the 30,000 MT level was in 2022 when it recorded 29,957 MT. “Our solution is to give farmers alternatives, such as more [drought] resistant varieties,” Juan told reporters on

the sidelines of the 2nd Philippine Coffee Sustainability Congress in Makati City on Thursday. Such coffee varieties include liberica, excelsa, and robusta. Unlike arabica that should be grown at higher altitudes of more than 1,000 meters, Juan said the other three varieties could be produced at around 200 to 500 meters. Meanwhile, she added that obstacles like the lack of planting materials should be hurdled by the industry. “To solve the tons of coffee requirements that we need, you have to start from [having] seeds to grow,” Juan said. She called on Senator Francis Pangilinan to recommend the establishment of community nurseries, since the country only has limited accredited nurseries. To ease soaring fertilizer costs on farmers,

Juan said they were also promoting the use of organic inputs as a cheaper alternative. She added that the DA, through the national organic agriculture program, would provide technical assistance on organic fertilizers. “So, we’re putting together out-of-thebox solutions to alleviate our challenge about declining coffee production.”

Competitiveness fund

EARLIER, the Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed to the B usiness M irror that it has received 19 proposals from farmers who are seeking to gain access to the competitiveness enhancement measures fund (CEMF). Of these, 14 projec ts came from coffee cooperatives, four from the poultry industry, and one from the onion sector.

(See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2026/08/24/more-farmers-keenon-competitiveness-fund/) The DA has revised the guidelines for the implementation of the CEMF, which was created under Republic Act (RA) 8800 or the Safeguards Measures Act, to boost local industries injured by the influx of imports. Under Memorandum Circular (MC) 34, the CEMF will bankroll initiatives within the domestic agri-fishery industries affected by higher import volumes. The CEMF consists of 50 percent of earnings collected from fees, charges, and safeguard duties on imported goods. Industry sources noted that the fund, which they said stood at P5.16 billion as of 2024, consists mostly of safeguard duties collected from coffee and poultry imports. Ada Pelonia

Gokongweis continue expansion of The Marketplace By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror

OBINSONS Retail Holdings Inc. ( R R H I ) w i l l o p e n t wo m o re branches of The Marketplace (TMP) south of Manila. Diana Prince U. Ang, Deputy General Manager of The Marketplace and Shopwise, told the B usiness M irror that the two TPM stores will open this month at the Evia Mall in Las Piñas and a “free standing” branch along Aguirre Avenue in Parañaque, similar to that of the branches in Ayala Alabang and Corinthian Hills. The Marketplace is a leading premium supermarket in the Philippines under RRHI, a sister company of the Gokongwei-led JG Summit Holdings Inc., both of which are under the Gokongwei Group. There are currently 39 TMPs across the country, 30 of which are in Metro Manila, four in Cebu, two in Calabarzon, and one each in Baguio City, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro. Formerly owned by the Dairy Farm International Group, which had a major stake in the Tantoco family’s Rustan Supercenters Inc., TMP is popular for its quality fresh food and imported gourmet items such as wines along with European cheeses and deli meats. TMP recently held its annual Wine Fair at the Shangri-La Plaza, where it offered various promotions such as 50 percent discount on wines, Buy 1-Take 1, Buy 2-Take 1, and P999 deals. “It’s ac tually a venue, where we celebrate with our c ustomers...and since it’s nearly Christmas, we’re able to suggest to [them] what they can give as gifts, or simply what they can enjoy at

THE annual Marketplace Wine Fair at Shangri-La Plaza Mall

DIANA PRINCE U. ANG, Deputy General Manager of The Marketplace and Shopwise

home. It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on trusted favorites, find premium bottles for upcoming celebrations, or discover something completely new,” said Ang.

TMP carries exclusive finds and highly rated wines to exciting varietals and prestigious Bordeaux, with the Wine Fair offering a thoughtfully curated selection for every kind of occasion. TMP carries wines from Australia, Italy, Spain, France, the United States, among others, ranging from as low as P499 to as high as P16,000 per bottle. Ang added that customers will have a more convenient shopping experience especially with its new partnership with Vivino. The wine app makes exploring different labels easier: simply scan a bottle to discover useful details such as its flavor profile and ratings from a global community of wine drinkers. “Think of it as a digital sommelier, whether you’re searching for something to

pair with dinner, a bottle to bring to your next gathering, or a new addition to your wine collection,” she explained. Vivino is available in all TMP branches. In store, she said, the wines are arranged for easy access of customers. “For beginners, who are just in an exploratory mode, you can see the bottles are arranged either by country or by type of wine [red, white, rosé]. But if you’re already familiar with wines, we have a section of popular, more expensive wines,” added Ang. Although not all stores will carry a wide selection of wines, the smaller stores will carry premium wines, she said. The bigger TMPs will also feature a “full-service” deli, where customers can choose their favorite sausages and hams, cheeses, and other items to be included in a charcuterie board that will go with the wines they just bought. “Some small stores will have these for grab-and-go, since not all customers have the time to wait to make these purchases,” she noted. In addition, TMP has a catering service, “because we have our own consignees,” from which it sells prepared food and meals like sisig, laing, rotisserie chicken, pork belly, rice meals, to name a few. “We kept the identity of The Marketplace, which has been known for its food section and RTE [ready to-eat] items [since the Rustans era],” she said. RRHI’s net income slipped by 42 percent to P6.3 billion in 2025 from P10.9 billion the previous year. Close to 60 percent of its P210.4 billion consolidated sales last year were accounted for by its food units, 19 percent from its drugstores, eight percent from department stores, and the rest from the Do-it-yourself and specialty stores.

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PBBM to summon China’s Jing for remark on use of force, ‘easy win’ By Samuel Medenilla, Butch Fernandez & Rex Anthony Naval

R ESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he will once again summon Chinese ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan to seek clarification on the diplomat’s recent remarks that China could “easily win” if it uses military force against the Philippines. In an interview at the 125th Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Founding Anniversary in Manila last Friday, the chief executive said the remark from Jing can be considered as a threat. “Well, it sounds very much to me like a threat, and it is not a very diplomatic statement to be made. So, we perhaps would like to understand what exactly it is that he means,” he said. “I think that deserves a discussion between the Ambassador and myself,” he added when asked if he will summon Jing. Meanwhile, Jing’s remark has stirred a firestorm of protests from various sectors, notably senators and the defense chief.

Economic. . . Continued from A3

quality job opportunities for our people,” Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said. For his part, Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Davide Giglio said the participating companies reflected interest in a longer-term economic partnership with the Philippines. “We believe the Luzon Economic Corridor is a unique opportunity for greater involvement of Italian businesses in this country,” Giglio said. The corridor is intended to attract in-

The Philippines will never be cowed by threatening remarks coming from the Chinese Ambassador in Manila, Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. of the Department of National Defense (DND) said on Friday. Senators Erwin Tulfo and Risa Hontiveros, who has often drawn the embassy’s ire for spearheading investigations into cases that involve Chinese nationals, also came out swinging on Friday in reaction to the envoy’s remarks. The Department of Foreign Affairs also called out Ambassador Jing earlier for saying that if China opts to use force against the Philippines, it will “easily win.”

No word on Palace meeting AS of press time, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said they have no information yet when the meeting between the President and Jing will take place. At the sidelines of an event organized by the Philippines-China Studies Center of Diliman College in Quezon City last Thursday, Jing said while China can use military force to easily defeat the Philippines’

vestments in infrastructure, energy, digital connectivity and advanced manufacturing, with Italy contributing through public financial support designed to facilitate private-sector investment in transport, semiconductors and manufacturing. Trade between Italy and the Philippines remains weighted toward Italian exports. In 2023, Italy recorded a trade surplus of €476 million, up from €404 million in 2022, as Philippine exports to Italy declined. Major traded products include machinery, computers and electronic and optical equipment, as well as food, beverages and tobacco, according to the Italian Embassy in Manila.

defender, it chooses to use peaceful means instead. Last July, Marcos also met with Jing after members of the Philippine Navy, who were stationed in the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal were hurt by the Chinese Coast Guard. T he Palace said Marcos sought a “reset” of discussions between Manila and Beijing to resolve any territorial issues in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) during the said meeting. China continues to claim most parts of the South China Sea, even those within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone or the WPS, even after it was invalidated by the 2016 ruling of the Arbitral Tribunal. Marcos thanked the PCG for its important role of securing the country’s maritime territories amid China’s encroachment on the WPS. “The Philippine Coast Guard has stood watch over our waters, protected lives, and answered the call of our people in times of uncertainty,” he said. “The waters that connect our islands must be a source of opportunity for our people, not a source of fear or

uncertainty,” he added. This, he said, was on top of its other mandate of conducting pre-departure inspections of vessels at ports nationwide; search and rescue operations; delivering essential assistance to disaster-hit communities; and the protection of marine environment and biodiversity. “And so, to every Coast Guardian serving at our ports and stations, aboard our vessels and aircraft, and deployed in communities across our country: Stay strong. We see and feel your service,” Marcos said partly in Filipino.

PH not scared-Gibo IN a radio interview, Teodoro deemed threatening the remarks by Ambassador Jing, that China could “easily win” if it wants to use force amid the ongoing territorial disputes between the two nations. For the DND chief, the Chinese envoy’s real message was they can use force and the Philippines will lose. Jing, however, clarified that China will never do such a thing as it stands for peace. Likewise, Teodoro said that it

would be downright unpatriotic if Filipinos would not stand up to such statements. “Let there be no doubt: Nobody in this world can bully the Philippines— whether through words or by force. Our sovereignty is not negotiable, our dignity is not for sale, and our resolve must never be mistaken for weakness,” Sen. Erwin Tulfo said in a statement Friday. Tulfo is vice chairman of the Senate foreign relations committee. Sen. Risa Hontiveros, whose Akbayan party is at the forefront of civilian campaigns against bullying of fishermen in the West Philippine Sea, also weighed in: “I strongly denounce the threats made by the Chinese ambassador. His statements are gray zone aggression in diplomatic form, meant to intimidate and coerce while stopping just short of war.” For his part, Tulfo said, “We do not take lightly the statement that China can ‘easily win’ if it uses force against the Philippines. As a peace-loving country that upholds democracy and international law, the Filipino people will not back down in the face of these threats. “We fought foreign invaders in the

past with only crude weapons but a lot of courage, sweat and blood - and we succeeded. “We will do so again if our sovereignty is threatened once more.” Hontiveros said it should “be clear to China that no threat will make us surrender what is rightfully ours. The Philippines has only done what every law-abiding member of the community of nations would do — defend our rights through legal and diplomatic means.” An ambassador who threatens his host country has crossed a line, the senator stressed. She urged the Philippine government to “demand a formal retraction and apology from Beijing. If none comes, the ambassador should be declared persona non grata.” The Philippines, Hontiveros said, “must also raise this threat before ASEAN and the United Nations General Assembly. When one nation is threatened, every member-state that values international law is threatened too.” She concluded, “China must be held accountable for these words, as she must be for her actions in our waters.”

China envoy says ties at ‘critical juncture’; DFA raps him for ‘veiled threat’ of force By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

RESH from consultations with senior officials in Beijing, Chinese Ambassador H.E. Jing Quan warned that China-Philippines relations are at an“extremely sensitive and critical juncture,”as the Philippine government condemned remarks by the envoy that it said amounted to a “thinly veiled threat” of military force. Speaking at the 2nd Diliman Dialogues on October 15, Jing urged Manila not to allow maritime disputes to define the entire bilateral

relationship, stressing that economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries remain strong despite tensions in the West Philippine Sea. “China-Philippines relations cannot be reduced to a simplistic judgment of being‘good’or ‘bad,’”Jing told diplomats, academics and policy experts. “We risk falling into a vicious cycle of reciprocal countermeasures and retaliation. Such a downward spiral would only play into the hands of the forces seeking to undermine China-Philippines relations.” The ambassador also called on the Philippines to pursue what he described as a “moderate and balanced foreign policy,”saying Manila need not choose between Beijing and Washington or place itself on the “front lines of confrontation.” The diplomatic exchange escalated on the sidelines of the forum when Jing rejected remarks by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who had recently described China as the region’s “troublemaker.” “That’s nonsense. Who’s the troublemaker?” Jing said, while also criticizing what he described as actions against Chinese nationals in the Philippines. Jing’s remarks drew immediate attention when he underscored China’s military

advantage while insisting Beijing favored peaceful means. “If we want to use force, we may easily win. But no, we will not choose force, and we love peace,” he said. The statement prompted criticism from Philippine officials, with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) later issuing a rare public rebuke of the Chinese envoy. “It is regrettable that Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan today had a poor choice of words that would seem to convey a thinly veiled threat of the use of force, which is hardly helpful in the context of the complicated bilateral ties between the Philippines and China,” the DFA said in a statement. The department reminded diplomats accredited to the Philippines that “the business of diplomacy requires tact and restraint” and urged greater care in public statements to avoid further eroding trust and confidence between the two countries. Before the DFA statement was issued, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela had also condemned Jing’s remarks, describing them as an inappropriate warning from a foreign envoy. The Chinese Embassy responded sharply, accusing Tarriela of distorting the ambassador’s

comments and issuing an unusually personal criticism of the Coast Guard official. “Yet Tarriela twisted these remarks into a threat against the Philippines. Is there something wrong with his head? This is truly low,” the embassy said in a statement posted online. The embassy accused Tarriela of fanning anti-China sentiment and undermining bilateral relations, saying such actions risk fueling confrontation between the two countries. Following the DFA’s criticism, the Chinese Embassy issued another statement expressing regret over what it called the department’s “selective quotation and overinterpretation” of Jing’s remarks. “Diplomacy must be honest and straightforward in order to reduce misunderstandings and prevent misjudgments,” the embassy said, while urging the DFA to play a“more responsible role” in managing bilateral relations. The embassy reiterated Jing’s warning that China-Philippines ties are at a sensitive stage and should not be pushed into what it described as a “dangerous and uncertain situation.” The exchange marks one of the sharpest public confrontations in recent months between Philippine and Chinese officials, underscoring the deepening strains in bilateral relations amid continuing disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

PHL, US naval units conduct 16th MCA in West PHL Sea

ILIPINO and American naval units on Oct. 14 successfully conducted the 16th bilateral maritime cooperative activity (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Friday. In a statement, the militar y said this latest exercise was instrumental in strengthening maritime interoperability

and operational coordination between the AFP and the United States Pacific Command. “The Philippines deployed the Philippine Navy’s BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-6) with AW-109 helicopter, and Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702). The United States on the other hand deployed USS Warrior (MCM10). Participating forces conducted passing

honors and photo exercises during the one-day activity,” the AFP said. It added that this iteration of MCA underscores the Philippines and the United States’ continued commitment to strengthening defense cooperation, enhancing maritime capabilities, and supporting a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific. Rex Anthony Naval

Ex-BARMM lawmaker named financier of busted Laos drug ops

HE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on Congress to pass a new law to allow local authorities to charge, as terrorist groups, those drug traffickers attempting to smuggle illegal narcotics into the Philippines, citing the gaps in pursuing those involved in the attempt to bring 521 kilograms of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) in Manila from Laos. This after Interior Secretary Juanito “Jonvic” Remulla disclosed in a press briefing in Malacañang on Friday they can only file conspiracy charges against those involved in the illegal transaction, which did not push through in the Philippines. “We are asking Congress now to pass a law to label narco traffickers as a terrorist organization. [That]way, if they are tagged [as] a terrorist organization, law enforcement agencies all around the world will cooperate with us,” Remulla explained, partly in Filipino. The press briefing was held after the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced Thursday that authorities from

Laos were able to intercept the shipment of shabu with an estimated worth of P3.5 billion. The illegal drugs were said to be from Malaysia and then passed through Laos, before it could be delivered to a Manila Aerospace Parts and Services (Maptra) hangar in Pasay City in September. Prior to the operations by Laos authorities, PDEA already received information from their foreign contacts that there will be two illegal drug shipments bound for the Philippines. Among those linked to the failed deal were former Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliament member Edrieza H. Nasser Rimbang, who is also known as “Sultan.” “Sultan Edrieza Rimbang H. Nasser is believed to be the financier of the entire operation,” Remulla said. Aside from being part of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s political party, Rimbang has no connection with the former President, according to Remulla. Rimbang is married to Rohniah E. Rimbang, the sister of Anidah Somirado Embolo,

the wife of Fahad Mulok Diabarosam, who was arrested by Laos authorities in connection to the said shipment. Also tagged as persons of interest by DILG in connection with the illegal shipment were Aileen Mendoza, a Police Executive Master Sergeant of Aviation Security Group, who organized the arrival flight of the plane carrying the drug shipment and Captain Rioklyn “Boyet” Toledo, a former pilot of a major airline. “Police Officer Aileen Manalo-Mendoza had been relieved of her post and she is now under restrictive custody at the Aviation Security Group,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melenecio Nartatez said. The other persons of interest are Rimbang’s counsin Abdullah Rimbang Macarimbang, Aldren Nadal Samante; Rodolfo “Rudy” Mendoza Isidro, a Coast Guard Auxillary; Abdulahkarim K. Macalatas, whose same appeared in the consignee documents for the shipment and the suspected drug distributor; Christian Fabrigas, operation manager of ALS; and one Hilario de Vera. Samuel Medenilla

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Editor: Angel R. Calso • Saturday, October 17, 2026 A5

New brain cells after 60? Try these exercises

By Jona C. Redondo

ENIOR exercises can support the growth of new brain cells through neurogenesis, particularly in the hippocampus, helping counter age-related cognitive decline. For decades, scientists believed the adult brain could not generate new neurons. Research has overturned that view. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis—the birth of new neurons in the brain’s memory and learning center—continues throughout life, including into the later decades, though it slows with age. In seniors, this process supports memory formation, spatial navigation, mood regulation, and resilience against cognitive decline. Physical exercise stands out as one of the most powerful, accessible ways to enhance it.

The science of exercise and neurogenesis

EXERCISE promotes neurogenesis primarily by elevating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), often called “fertilizer for the brain.” BDNF supports the survival, growth, and differentiation of new neurons, especially in the dentate gyrus of the

hippocampus. It also improves cerebral blood flow, reduces inflammation, and modulates immune cells such as microglia in the aging brain. A landmark 2011 randomized controlled trial by Kirk Erickson and colleagues at the University of Pittsburgh, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, provided key human evidence. Researchers assigned 120 sedentary older adults (average age around 67) to either moderate aerobic exercise— primarily brisk walking, progressing to about 40 minutes three times per week—or a stretching-and-toning control group for one year. The aerobic group showed roughly a 2 percent increase in hippocampal volume (left and right), effectively reversing one to two years of typical age-related shrinkage. The control group experienced the expected decline of about 1.4 percent. Increased volume correlated with higher serum BDNF

levels and improvements in spatial memory. Supporting animal research reinforces these findings. Studies in aging mice show that voluntary exercise rejuvenates microglia, reduces inflammatory T-cell accumulation in the hippocampus, and boosts the formation of new neurons. Human meta-analyses and reviews from sources including Mayo Clinic Proceedings and Harvard Health confirm that regular aerobic activity preserves or increases hippocampal and gray-matter volume, enhances executive function, and is linked to lower dementia risk. Neuroscientist Sandrine Thuret of King’s College London has popularized these ideas. In her widely viewed TED Talk, “You can grow new brain cells. Here’s how,” she explains that adults produce hundreds of new hippocampal neurons daily and that lifestyle factors—especially aerobic exercise—strongly influence the process. She notes benefits for mood, memory, and protection against agerelated decline.

Best exercises for seniors

NOT all movement is equal, but a well-rounded routine combining aerobic, strength, balance, and coordination work yields the strongest brain benefits. Guidelines from health authorities and research reviews recommend at least 150 min-

utes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, plus strength training twice weekly. Aerobic exercise is the most consistently supported for neurogenesis and hippocampal growth. Brisk walking is ideal for seniors: free, low-impact, and scalable. Other options include swimming or water aerobics, stationary cycling, dancing, or hiking on safe terrain. Aim for a pace that raises the heart rate while still allowing conversation (roughly 60 percent to 70 percent of maximum heart rate). Sessions of 30–40 minutes, three to five times weekly, mirror the Erickson protocol. Harvard Health notes that moderate cardio for about 45 minutes regularly improves multiple cognitive domains, including memory and executive function, even in those with mild impairment. High-intensity interval training (HIIT)—short bursts of harder effort alternated with recovery—can produce robust BDNF spikes and has shown lasting cognitive benefits in older adults in some trials. For seniors, this might mean faster walking intervals or short cycling efforts, always scaled to fitness level and cleared by a physician. Resistance or strength training also contributes. Lifting light weights, using resistance bands, or performing bodyweight moves such as chair sit-to-stands, wall push-ups, and calf raises builds muscle, elevates

growth factors like IGF-1 (insulinlike growth factor 1), and supports executive function and white-matter integrity. Research indicates progressive resistance training two to three times weekly can protect hippocampal regions and improve memory circuits. One small trial in older women found hippocampal growth after months of weight training. Balance, coordination, and mindbody practices enhance neuroplasticity through dual demands on the body and brain. Tai chi and yoga combine gentle movement, balance challenges, and breathing, reducing cortisol (which suppresses neurogenesis) while improving gray-matter density in memory-related areas. Dual-task walking—walking while counting backward or naming categories—amplifies cognitive gains beyond exercise alone. A sample weekly routine might include three 30 to 40-minute brisk walks, two short strength sessions (chair stands, wall push-ups, band rows), and one tai chi or yoga class. Start gradually, especially if sedentary.

Practical tips and safety

CONSULT a doctor before beginning, particularly with conditions such as heart disease, joint issues, or balance problems. Use sturdy chairs or counters for support. Progress slowly: begin with 10–15 minutes of walking and build up. Consistency mat-

ters more than intensity—chronic moderate activity produces lasting structural changes. Pair exercise with good sleep, social engagement, and a nutrient-rich diet (including omega-3s) for synergistic effects on BDNF and neurogenesis. Expert videos offer accessible explanations. Beyond Thuret’s TED Talk, neurologists and physicians on platforms such as YouTube frequently reference the Erickson study and demonstrate simple bilateral or walking protocols tailored for those over 50 or 70. David Perlmutter, MD, has discussed aerobic exercise and BDNF in shorter clips emphasizing the 2011 findings. Growing new brain cells is not reserved for the young. For seniors, regular aerobic exercise—especially walking—combined with strength and balance work offers a powerful, evidence-based strategy to increase hippocampal volume, elevate BDNF, and support memory and cognition. The Erickson trial and supporting research from Mayo Clinic, Harvard Health, the National Institute on Aging, and neuroscientists like Sandrine Thuret demonstrate that it is never too late. Starting a sustainable movement habit today can help reverse years of typical brain aging and promote sharper thinking for years to come. Consistency, safety, and enjoyment are the keys to longterm success.

Why old dogs might be Yes, you still love your spouse, but are you the best of friends? able to teach Alzheimer’s researchers new tricks By Julie Moreno

OST people know someone with Alzheimer’s disease. When I was growing up, my grandmother struggled with dementia, and I saw firsthand how difficult that was for our family. That experience was one reason I became a neurotoxicologist who studies how misshapen proteinsand inflammation in the brain can increase over time and cause dementia. While there are ways to treat the symptoms of dementia, researchers are still in search of a cure. Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are difficult to study, in part because diagnosing the disease early in people is challenging. These diseases typically begin developing two decades prior to most symptoms that would prompt someone to see a clinician. As a result, most researchers use mouse models to test potential therapies for Alzheimer’s. However, the effects of drugs developed in mice rarely translate to people. In fact, 99 percent of drugs developed for Alzheimer’s that showed promise in the lab failed in human clinical trials. Brain aging is hard to study in mice, as they do not naturally have the buildup of misshapen proteins seen in dementia. Researchers can genetically modify mice to mimic what happens in a human brain, but it is difficult to mimic every aspect of dementia in one mouse. So, scientists have set out to research other animals that naturally experience what happens in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s or dementia. One particular species showing promise as a model to study neurodegenerative disease is the aging dog. In our newly published research in the journal npj Dementia, my colleagues and I show that the aging dog brain changes in similar ways to a human brain with dementia—highlighting the value of companion dogs as a natural model of neurodegeneration that could help researchers develop better diagnostics and treatments for this disease.

Brain disease in dogs and people

OUR work on aging dogs all began with a desire to develop better treatments for dementia. Was there a better way to study the toxic proteins that cause disease than using mice? Around the same time, I had learned that dogs also get dementia and partnered with my colleague Stephanie McGrath, a veterinary neurologist who studies companion dogs with brain diseases. She was interested in canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, a condition similar to dementia in people. Canine cognitive dysfunction affects more than a quarter of dogs over age 12.

This type of dementia can be diagnosed through surveys of symptoms that owners see in their dogs. But the abnormal proteins that cause dementia in dogs have not been studied in depth. In order to study canine cognitive dysfunction— and potentially dementia in people—we would need to understand how the brains of companion dogs age. Partnering with neuropathologist Caitlin Latimer, my team and I set out to see how the brains of dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction compared to those of people with Alzheimer’s disease. Owners consented to donating brain samples from their old dogs for this study. The dogs had either died naturally or had been euthanized under the direction of their owners, with consultation from their clinical care team, to prevent further decline in their quality of life. Using the same lab analysis methods we used to examine human samples, we found abnormal protein deposits in the same regions of the dog brain as in the brains of people with early dementia. We then asked whether blood markers commonly seen in Alzheimer’s disease in people undergo similar changes in the dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction. In dogs with high levels of abnormal protein deposits in their brains, we also observed unusually elevated levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein, or GFAP. Because GFAP is normally found only in the blood during brain injury or disease, it could be a promising biomarker to not only help diagnose dogs with cognitive decline but also provide insights into how dementia progresses in people.

Aging dogs, aging people

THERE are other ongoing efforts to understand how dogs age. The Dog Aging Project is a study of more than 50,000 companion dogs over time that seeks to better understand the biological, genetic and environmental factors that influence the aging of the whole body, including the brain. For example, the Dog Aging Project developed a battery of canine cognitive tests that researchers can use to study early changes in cognition and behavior before the dog shows neurologic symptoms. With this data, researchers can link pathological changes in the brain to behavioral changes. Better understanding how the canine brain ages can help clarify why some dogs or people get dementia while others do not. Through this work, researchers may be better able to discover new treatments and detect dementia earlier. Julie Moreno is an Associate Professor of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

HAVE a friend who, at 90, confessed to me that he had fallen in love again. I stared at him for what seemed like an eternity, unable to believe what he was saying. As far as I knew, he was still married, and at that point, his wife was in the early stages of dementia. Almost apoplectic, I rebuked him: How could you! But he just smiled. “Who’s the woman?” I demanded, beginning to sense that he was up to something. He teased me: “She’s a woman I knew a long time ago.” Then, after a second or two, he blurted out: “My wife!” At that moment, I couldn’t understand why the nonagenarian I was talking to was acting like a teenager swooning over a crush. Then it was only later that I remembered what someone said: “Falling in love again with the same person is what makes people happiest.” From what I could see from my old friend, this perhaps is true. The truth is, he never felt as effusive about his feelings for his wife, who is also in her 90s. I had known them as a couple for quite a while now and I seldom saw him showing his affection for her. In fact, there were times he was snappish and impatient with her. Now that his wife is in progressive mental decline, he has suddenly grown much more affectionate and devoted. The way he speaks about her and has arranged his life around her leaves no doubt about his sincerity. He waxes poetic, calling her the sweetest woman he has ever met, an angel, and so on. Then in one post on his social media account, he wrote: “At times I feel like I am a parent again, caring for a baby, a child whom I hold dear.” In short, my friend has got his

wife totally under his care and control. Maybe, that’s the kernel that could reveal the whole psychology behind the uncommon passion he is now showing towards his wife. In the case of me and my wife, we too are in the process of renewing or even re-inventing our relationship as a couple in late life. The reality is that for most married couples, retirement forces them into constant, round-the-clock companionship. In contrast, they barely spent time in each other’s company before. As a harried employee or executive, the husband viewed himself strictly as a provider, seeing his wife

only briefly at breakfast and dinner—if he made it home for dinner at all. Consequently, little room was left for affection and intimacy. Now, in retirement, whether they like it or not, husband and wife have breakfast, lunch and dinner together with merienda time thrown in. Imagine being with a partner confined in a cramped space shuttle for months as it travels to a distant planet. This is why our focus as an aging couple is to stay happily in love and individually fulfilled beyond just sticking together under the law, for

better or for worse. I believe we are in the right direction. Research shows that in later life, the important thing for wellbeing is relationship satisfaction. In blunt terms, strive to avoid getting into each other’s hair. One time my wife and I attended the golden wedding anniversary of a couple whom we admired. They were known to be religious and it wasn’t surprising for them to quote from the bible when they were asked to share the “secret” of their “successful” marriage. When it was her turn to speak, the wife took a line from the Song of Solomon as she looked at her husband: “This is my beloved, and this is my friend.” The point she wanted clearly to convey was that friendship was at the heart of their marital relationship. The philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once wrote, “It is not the absence of love but the absence of friendship that makes marriages unhappy.” He never got married by the way and was reportedly rebuffed in proposals three times by the same woman. But let’s not dismiss what he said too easily because there is something true about it. Which is something to ponder for married couples: Why do some of us stop being friends? Were you really friends to start with? Have you heard of what psychologists call “companionate love?” It is love based less on passionate highs and lows and more on stable affection, mutual understanding, and commitment. You might think “companionate love” sounds a little, well, unromantic or even clinical. What it simply means is that you don’t just love each other; you like each other, too. Once and always your romantic love, your spouse is also your best friend. Often, passionate love, which relies on physical attraction and

emotional satisfaction, does not last beyond the novelty of the relationship. Being rooted in friendship is the reason that companionate love creates enduring affection and true happiness. As one researcher factually summarizes the evidence in the Journal of Happiness Studies, “The wellbeing benefits of marriage are much g reater for those who also regard their spouse as their best friend.” All the data and studies aside, the best evidence I have about happiness and companionate love is my own life. After five decades we have each other through good times and bad. We share our joys, our fears and tears. We look forward to enjoy plenty more decades of life in love and friendship together. Being so close together most of the time, we have cultivated a sense of delight in each other’s presence. I have “infected” my wife with my personal interests, such as history, geography, and travel documentaries while I am now more knowledgeable about classical music, thanks to her background as a piano concert performer. We enjoy exchanging notes as we watch a crime drama unfold. We stay a little longer at breakfast to reminisce and reflect about the past and what significant incidents have helped shape our respective personalities. From these shared tidbits I appreciate my wife much better, seeing her life as a novel in progress, waiting to be written. So as an aged couple who have stayed together even now don’t ever stop doing things together. Talk and listen to each other more. You might be surprised at how much there is to discover about your companion in life, your last best friend. There is nothing nobler and more admirable than two friends keeping house as husband and wife who see eye to eye and truly enjoy each other’s company in the golden sunset of their life.

Saturday, October 17, 2026 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

A SEARCH for “Lake Ontario” on Google Maps shows up as “Lake America” on August 30, 2026, in Bellemont, Arizona. AP

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Lake America backlash fuels interest in Google Maps alternatives J UST because Google and Apple are now calling it Lake America doesn’t mean everyone has to. After US President Donald J. Trump ordered a new name for Lake Ontario, the two US tech giant quickly fell in line, relabeling the body of water on their digital maps. The move sparked a backlash among some users, already unhappy with the companies’ decisions to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America on their maps following a previous Trump edict. The controversy and lingering worries about digital privacy have fueled interest in map services that aren’t from Big Tech companies, especially Google Maps, which is the dominant player with about 80 percent of the market, according to most estimates. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular free map app alternatives: ■ MapQuest. MapQuest has been around for three decades but was overtaken by the rise of Google. It’s now owned by California company System1. Downloads of the MapQuest app surged in early September after Apple renamed Lake Ontario, topping the free app charts in both the US and Canada on Apple’s App Store. The MapQuest app has real time traffic updates and turn by turn route guidance, and shows what’s nearby, like gas stations and coffee shops. However, the app isn’t available outside the US and Canada. But people in other countries can still use the MapQuest website. The company is currently looking into making MapQuest more broadly accessible, after receiving requests for the app from “people in multiple countries,” spokesman Anne Brownlee said. ■ TomTom. Another granddaddy in the mapping world, TomTom helped popularize GPS route mapping with the 2004 release of its TomTom GO, which the Dutch company says was the world’s first all-in-one portable satellite navigation device. TomTom still sells physical devices but it also has a free map app for Google and Android phones that is designed “exclusively for drivers” with live traffic data and info on road hazards. The TomTom app’s mobile interface is clean and basic, with no ads and few extra features or settings. But its focus on drivers means there are no other route options such as walking or cycling. ■ Here WeGo. Here WeGo has been hailed by some as the closest non-Big Tech alternative to Google Maps. It began life as Nokia Maps and is now owned by a consortium of German carmakers including Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. The free app, available for both iOS and Android devices, offers many of the same features as Google Maps. There’s route mapping for various modes of

transport—car, public transport, walking, bike and, in some regions, taxi. Like Google Maps, drivers can add multiple stops to routes and users can choose different maps views like terrain, traffic and satellite—but there’s no Street View. If mobile signal is spotty or nonexistent, users can download country maps to navigate offline. Offline maps can also be downloaded on Google Maps, but the area is limited and they expire after a year. After this story was first published, a reader noted the app refers to Lake America, not Lake Ontario. The app’s owner, Here Technologies, confirmed it has updated the name to Lake America for users in the United States. “Under our uniform global policy, Here updates nomenclature based on changes by international and national standards bodies, such as the United States Board on Geographic Names,” spokesperson Jordan Stark said.

EUROPE HAS SPAWNED A RANGE OF MAP APPS FOCUSED ON PRIVACY

HERE WeGo is just one of many lesser-known map apps based in the European Union that embrace the bloc’s strict privacy framework known as GDPR. Unlike Google, they don’t rely on vacuuming up masses of user data to sell ads targeted at those users. Here WeGo’s business model is based on licensing deals with businesses like trucking companies. Others sell premium subscriptions alongside free versions.

Estonia’s Organic Maps is completely free and based on data from the volunteer-run OpenStreetMap database. Netherlands-based OSMand is similar, but a subscription is needed for more than just basic functions. Magic Earth is a Dutch route planner that says it never collects personal data or tracks user movements. Sygic, from Slovakia, is a GPS route navigation app that offers free offline maps, but you’ll have to buy a subscription to get extra features including traffic updates, speed camera warnings and a dashcam function. Mapy.com, from a Czech technology company, is an outdoor route planner known for detailed hiking and trail maps that can be downloaded for use offline. ■ Citymapper. Need to get across town without a car? Citymapper is a free journey planning app that’s a major rival to Google Maps when it comes to finding the best routes around a city on public transportation. The app covers 430 cities around the world and options include bus, subway and ferry routes as well as taxi, rental bike and scooter options. ■ Waze. This GPS navigation map is focused on providing route guidance for drivers. It’s known for crowdsourcing real time traffic information such as car accidents and police speed cameras from other drivers. But don’t be fooled by the name. Although it has its own distinct app and branding, Waze is actually owned by Google, which bought it in 2013. AP

AI adoption in Philippine customer service risks eroding consumer trust BY RIZAL RAOUL REYES ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming customer service in the Philippines, but businesses risk undermining consumer trust if automated systems cannot remember previous interactions, understand customer needs and provide seamless assistance, according to a new report by global communications technology company Twilio. The 2026 Customer Insights Series found that AI agents already handle 46 percent of customer service conversations in the Philippines, with businesses expecting the share to increase to 61 percent by 2027. However, the growing use of AI has exposed a critical weakness: customers are frequently forced to repeat information because automated systems fail to retain the context of previous conversations. The study found that 73 percent of Filipino consumers said automated interactions had required them to repeat information. Twilio Asia-Pacific and Japan marketing vice president Nicholas Kontopoulos said the Philippines was a high-trust market, with consumers extending their confidence in established brands to AI-powered services. As automation expands, he said, AI must demonstrate the same memory, empathy and reliability that customers expect from the businesses they already trust. The findings are based on Twilio’s survey of 7,652 consumers and 660 business leaders across 18 markets, including 353 consumers and 35 business leaders in the

Philippines. The survey was conducted from April 9 to May 1, 2026. The Asia-Pacific markets covered were Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore. Meanwhile, 46 percent said they found fast but contextlacking AI more frustrating than slower systems that remember previous interactions. Only 16 percent preferred speed over memory. These findings underscore the importance of combining automation with continuity and personalization as businesses expand their use of AI in customer-facing operations. For businesses, the challenge is no longer simply deploying AI to reduce response times or handle more inquiries. They must also ensure that automated systems deliver reliable, relevant and consistent experiences that strengthen customer relationships. Despite these shortcomings, Filipino consumers appear receptive to AI-powered customer service. The report found that 81 percent of Filipino consumers had used AI customer service tools, while 79 percent believed these tools were improving. Trust in businesses also remains relatively strong, with 81 percent of Filipino consumers expressing confidence that companies would handle their personal data responsibly. However, that confidence could be jeopardized if AI systems fail to deliver the level of service customers expect. Twilio’s findings suggest that businesses must ensure AI systems can retain relevant customer information across interactions and channels, allowing customers to move

between chat, messaging and human support without having to start over. The report also highlighted the importance of transparency. While 73 percent of Filipino consumers wanted businesses to disclose upfront when they were interacting with AI, only 26 percent of Philippine organizations consistently did so. Although AI can help businesses manage routine inquiries and improve operational efficiency, customers may be less comfortable relying on automated systems for high-stakes matters involving payments, loans and health concerns. Twilio’s research points to the need for a balanced approach in which AI handles appropriate tasks while human agents remain accessible when customers require judgment, empathy or more specialized assistance. For Philippine businesses, this approach could become increasingly important as AI takes on a larger share of customer service conversations over the next year. The findings also point to continued business investment in digital customer engagement. According to the report, 94 percent of Philippine businesses had increased their budgets for digital engagement, while 80 percent remained optimistic about its prospects. However, greater spending on technology does not automatically translate into better customer experiences. Businesses must ensure that their investments address the practical problems customers encounter, including repeated requests for information, inadequate responses and difficulties reaching human representatives.

SONY PATENTS NFC-LIKE CAPABILITY TO THEIR VIDEO GAME CONTROLLER BY PATRICK VILLANUEVA PAYING in one tap in your video game controller could be the next move for Sony’s PlayStation as its new patent would let the controller read information and input it in their console without the need for multiple operations. This new patent, titled “Video game controllerdriven information transfer,” filed by Sony in March 2025 and published in September 2026, describes the tech as having Near Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing the hardware to transmit information to the console. In the patent, Sony explained that players found that they wanted to store payment method information, as well as streamlining payments. However, they added that to conduct this, there could be a need for multiple communication operations between several devices before successfully navigating the payment. For example, a player would have to input the data through an on-screen keyboard or scanning through a QR code. Failure of these operations, Sony concluded, would provide difficulty for the players. These are the traditional methods that Sony highlighted as a rationale for this new patent. This patent, they emphasized, answers this struggle by letting the video game controller conduct an information transfer to their console, through an NFC or Bluetooth capability, adding that this would improve the quality of life and performance. Other capabilities included in this patent let players transfer their ID card to the console without interruption and facilitate a multiplayer game. However, its Reddit community thinks otherwise, stating that this move, along with other decisions from the past few weeks or months, will drive away consumers. One of their reasons is this would let children make unsupervised payments because of its convenience. Citing an example of unsupervised mobile game payments, they emphasized that this is following that trend. Another reason involves concerns about the cost of the peripheral, stating that having this in new controllers could add another cost. Meanwhile, some are concerned that removing extra steps in the purchasing decision would lead to more unwanted purchases. Meanwhile, others pointed out that this convenience could be a net positive, especially for data breaches. If this is like NFC, they pointed out, then there is no need to store that data (credit card information) in the console as tap to pay uses a unique number for each transaction. However, having a patent does not automatically mean it will be shipped out. Therefore, players would have to wait before they get to access this new feature with the PlayStation.

Honor... CONTINUED FROM A7 These controls make sense for a tablet that might move between schoolwork and family entertainment.

BATTERY AND EVERYDAY USE

THE 10,100mAh battery supports 45W Honor SuperCharge, with Honor claiming up to 16 hours of video playback and 13 hours of reading. In my use, it lasted about two days with moderate work and entertainment, including binge-watching American Horror Story, playing Block Blast, posting blogs, and answering emails.

IS BIGGER WORTH IT?

AT its Philippine launch price of ₱19,999, or ₱21,999 with a keyboard, the Honor Pad X9b Max makes sense for readers, writers, and movie watchers who feel constrained by smaller screens. Its extra workspace is useful, provided your apps and expectations fit the hardware. The Honor 600S makes a different bargain: endurance and durability, with AI entertainment alongside a compromised display and basic cameras. Choose the phone for long days away from an outlet, and the tablet for tasks that need room.

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

GLOBE AT HOME EXPANDS GFIBER LINEUP WITH MORE CHOICES, ADDED VALUE FOR FILIPINO HOMES

GLOBE At Home is expanding its GFiber portfolio to give Filipino households more options across different budgets and needs, from more accessible plans to premium offers, with plans designed around the way Filipinos live, stream, work, and connect. More than speed, Globe is building its GFiber plans around a broader view of value, pairing connectivity with rewards, features and services that reflect how households actually stay connected every day. At the center of the lineup is GFiber 1499 Unli, a value-led plan that delivers internet speeds of up to 300 Mbps and is designed for streaming shows, video calls, and gaming. It comes with no lock-up, unlimited internet, a WiFi 6 modem that can connect up to 15 devices with low latency, access to Blast TV, and a Choose Your Own freebie worth up to P2,000. The plan also comes with an installation fee of P2,400 amortized over 24 months and just P1 upfront fee, making it a more accessible entry point for households that want fiber internet without the heavy upfront cost. For households that want more from their home internet, Globe At Home’s GFiber lineup also includes premium offers built around speed, service, and intelligent-home value. The company has positioned GFiber Plans as a stronger fit for connected homes that rely on high-speed fiber for work, entertainment, gaming, and multiple devices running at once. With plans that can go up to 2.5 Gbps, Globe At Home is pairing speed with WiFi 7, AI-powered modems, and added inclusions that help customers get more value from their subscription. These plans are designed not only to connect homes, but to support the way families actually use the internet every day. One of the key value drivers is Globe At Home’s Choose Your Own Voucher program, which gives subscribers up to P9,000 in vouchers from partner brands in tech and gaming, wellness and travel, and home improvements. For customers looking for premium care alongside premium performance, GFiber Plan 2499 brings together 1 Gbps connectivity, VIP Hotline access, Care Squad in-home support, and a Service Guarantee that includes GFiber Protect and a 12-month device warranty. Globe At Home is positioning this plan for households that want a more dependable and more personalized support experience, in addition to fast internet. Beyond plan inclusions, Globe AT HOME is also putting greater emphasis on consistency as part of the broadband experience. Both Globe Mobile and GFiber At Home have been recognized by Ookla as the Philippines’ Most Consistent Network for Mobile and Fixed Broadband. This means giving customers more ways to choose a plan based not only on speed, but on connectivity, service, flexibility and added benefits that matter to their household. Customers can explore Globe At Home GFiber Plans and find an option suited to their household’s connectivity needs at glbe.com.ph/GAH-PR.

XBOX OPENS ARMS TO MODS, PORTS AND BROWSER GAMING FOR OLD TITLES WITH XBOX LABS WITH new games and consoles being affected with the price hikes, and gamers not being able to afford them, the resurgence of old games seemed inevitable. And that’s what Xbox CEO Asha Sharma is banking on with its latest announcement for Xbox Labs. In a message sent to Xbox employees globally, now available in Xbox Wire, Asha Sharma announced Xbox Labs, a small group of game makers, engineers and scientists who have the green light to experiment with old titles through mods, ports and browser gaming, and make them more accessible to the public. Sharma stated in her message that the movement in the industry is shifting toward games being run on hardware they were not originally supported, citing Windows PC builds being translated to Apple Silicon and other ports like web browsers. Instead of gunning down this movement, the Xbox CEO saw this as an opportunity to open up access with the public, saying that this could give old games new life and give opportunities for players to become creators or co-creators. “These experiments challenge long-held assumptions about our industry: the tether between software and hardware, the boundary between creation and play, and how people discover and experience games,” she said in her message. Seeing this, Sharma said she talked with Xbox CTO Scott van Vliet to open up Xbox Labs to become an infrastructure that would “turn emerging ideas into things our players and developers can experience.” However, Sharma emphasized that while they are opening Xbox Labs, they are still committed to their own titles and hardwares. “Our priorities aren’t changing. We remain committed to the 4Cs, to making great games, to our hardware, and to being responsible stewards of IP and the communities built around it.” she added. “ Xbox Labs gives us a way to explore new technology without abandoning the work already underway.” Gamers received this news with optimism, stating that they are expecting Xbox to support the modding community to enhance the player experience and resurface old titles. PATRICK VILLANUEVA

BusinessMirror

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Saturday, October 17, 2026

HONOR 600S AND HONOR PAD X9B MAX:

More AI, more screen F

OR the past month, I’ve been losing sleep turning photos into videos on the Honor 600S 5G. If you follow my social media accounts (@whereiseduy), you’ve probably seen a few. Some are funny, others unsettling, and trying another prompt is often more tempting than putting the phone down. That’s the appeal Honor brings to a lower price with the Honor 600S: access to AI Image-to-Video 2.0 without spending as much as you would on the Honor 600 or 600 Pro. But “more affordable” still means around ₱20,000, and those savings come with compromises. Yes, the AI is entertaining, but whether the rest of the phone justifies the price deserves a closer look.

BUILT TO STICK AROUND

Durability is one of the strongest arguments for the Honor 600S. It carries IP68, IP69, and IP69K waterand dust-resistance ratings, plus SGS certification for drop and crush resistance. Honor claims protection against drops of up to 2.5 meters under controlled conditions. Its laboratory tests include 85°C water exposure, salt-spray testing, 800,000 screen taps, and 15,000 USB insertions. Wet-hand touch support and one-tap dust and water ejection add practical touches. These protections don’t make it indestructible, and water resistance can decline with wear. Honor claims “six years of endurance,” citing simulated battery-capacity retention above 80 percent after five years. The 8,100mAh battery and 45W Honor SuperCharge are substantial advantages. In my use, the phone lasted up to three days with moderate activity. When covering several events, I’m comfortable leaving the power bank at home without constantly checking the battery indicator.

A DIFFERENT FAMILY RESEMBLANCE

I’VE always appreciated phones in the same series sharing recognizable design DNA. While the Honor 600 and 600 Pro take cues from the iPhone 17 series, the Honor 600S looks considerably different. Its square camera island and flat sides make it look more like a cousin than a younger sibling. That doesn’t make it unattractive and the three color variants (Misty Purple, Desert Gold, and Velvet Black) give buyers three appealing choices. At 216.5 grams, it has noticeable but reassuring heft. The fingerprint reader sits in the power button, while the dedicated AI Button occupies the left side. The 6.87-inch display refreshes at up to 120Hz, but its TFT LCD panel and 1592×720 resolution reveal the savings. It’s adequate for browsing, social feeds, and videos, although resolution and contrast are less convincing at this price. The refresh rate helps movement look smoother; it cannot add detail to text or photographs. The stereo speakers sound good enough for casual viewing, with Honor advertising a 400 percent high-volume mode. Loudness isn’t the same as quality though, and I’d connect a Bluetooth speaker or earphones for music or longer viewing sessions.

EVERYDAY HARDWARE

THE Honor 600S is powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4, paired with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. In our use, it handled messaging, streaming, browsing, and everyday multitasking. It’s stable, though hardly the snappiest phone I’ve used recently. Several casual games ran at their default settings without frustrating slowdowns. More demanding games warrant lower expectations. Photography relies mainly on a 50MP rear camera, accompanied by an auxiliary sensor; selfies use a 5MP camera. Daylight photos are acceptable, including results around 2x digital zoom. Low-light performance is less consistent, so I suggest trying Night mode. There’s no optical image stabilization, and

video tops out at 1080p/30fps. These cameras cover everyday snapshots, but their limitations matter if shooting content is your main reason for upgrading. Digital zoom also crops the available image rather than giving you the reach of a dedicated telephoto camera.

CREATIVE FREEDOM, WITH AN ALLOWANCE

AI Image-to-Video 2.0 is where things become more entertaining. Prompts and presets let you suggest movement, transformations, and camera effects. Clear prompts help, but “anything is possible” remains advertising. You still need to judge the output and sometimes try again. Describe the subject’s action and the camera movement separately rather than packing several competing instructions into one prompt. A simple animated greeting or playful portrait gives you a more manageable starting point. Our review unit allowed five AI creations daily and we are not sure how long that free trial would last. Before buying primarily for this feature, ask Honor how many generations your retail unit includes, when access expires, and what additional creations cost, just to set expectations. Other tools include AI Eraser, AI Memory, AI Summary, and Circle to Search. The configurable AI Button can also launch favorite apps and commands, giving it a purpose even when you aren’t animating photos. Its usefulness depends on assigning shortcuts you actually need. I was hoping the S would mean “Special”; instead, I realized it could also mean sakto lang. The design, cameras, and everyday performance cover the basics, but the HD+ screen makes the price harder to defend. Battery endurance and durability are the stronger reasons to buy. The 8GB/256GB model is advertised at ₱19,999 until October 31, 2026; the online-exclusive 6GB/128GB version is priced at ₱18,999. The ₱1,000 difference buys more physical RAM and twice the storage, making the higher configuration worth considering if your budget allows. Just make sure you’d still want the Honor 600S after exhausting the day’s free AI creations.

HONOR PAD X9B MAX: WHY 13 INCHES MAKES SENSE

Open a document on your phone, switch to a browser to check a detail, then return to find your place in the paragraph. Repeat that enough times and a bigger screen starts sounding less like an indulgence. The same goes for reading magazines or comic books, following recipes, or watching movies with comfortably readable subtitles. That is the appeal of the Honor Pad X9b Max. Its 13-inch display approaches laptop territory, giving everyday tasks more space. The question is whether the rest of the tablet can keep up.

DESIGN AND BUILD

HONOR packages that screen in an aluminum unibody with a sandblasted finish. At 6.72mm thick and 618g for the Standard Edition, it is slim for its size. A keyboard case adds weight but also makes it more versatile.

This tablet makes sense on a desk, stand, or lap. Holding it through an entire movie is a different proposition. Consider how often you’ll carry it and whether your usual bag has room for the tablet and its accessories.

ROOM TO READ AND WATCH

THE 2.5K LCD supports refresh rates up to 120Hz, with Honor claiming peak brightness of 700 nits under strong light. PDFs, spreadsheets, and websites have room to display information without constant zooming. Split-screen work becomes easier to justify when both windows remain readable. The four speakers are impressively loud, and the overall presentation makes viewing immersive. IMAX Enhanced support applies to compatible content which require a Disney+ subscription for supported movies. DC Dimming, hardware low blue light, and TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free certifications round out the display features. They support viewing comfort without eliminating the need for breaks.

WORK WITHIN ITS LIMITS

THE Honor Pad X9b Max pairs a Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 processor with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. Honor’s advertised 18GB memory combines physical RAM with 12GB borrowed from storage. I appreciate support for microSD cards up to 2TB for downloaded movies, music, documents, and photos. Keyboard and Magic-Pencil 4s USB-C support open up writing and note-taking. Honor’s file manager adds customizable frequent files and an editable navigation bar, useful when moving between downloaded references and working documents. AI Memo includes transcription, highlighting, and summaries. Honor also advertises real-time AI questions and answers during meetings. For journalists, accuracy with Taglish and crowded press conferences matters more than the feature’s name; any transcript still needs checking against the recording. Honor Connect adds sharing with compatible devices across several platforms, including iOS, Windows, and macOS. App installation and compatibility requirements apply. MagicRing also supports network, call and notification sharing with compatible Honor phones. Adding a keyboard does not give Android the same software as a laptop. Check the apps you depend on, especially document formatting and spreadsheet tools, before making it your main work device. In our use, there was no noticeable slowdown, although responsiveness was more steady than brisk. The screen provides more workspace; it doesn’t turn this into a high-performance editing machine.

A SCREEN THE FAMILY CAN SHARE

HONOR’S children’s space includes a separate password, daily time limits, app controls, and approved images and videos. Distance, posture, and brightness alerts add reminders for younger users.

SEE “HONOR,” A6

A8 Saturday, October 17, 2026

Education BusinessMirror

Editor: Mike Policarpio

Gov’t funds grad. scholarships for public school counselors A

Architect calls for revisiting of curriculum, accreditation rules

EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis, and TESDA Director-General Francisco Benitez lead the awarding of the first batch of scholars of the 2026-2027 Learning Initiatives for Nurturing Guidance Associates and Counselors Program in Dumaguete City. PNA/MARY JUDALINE FLORES PARTLOW

CHOLARSHIPS under the “Learning Initiatives for Nurturing Guidance Associates and Counselors Program (LINGAP)” were recently granted to further enhance mental health support for learners.

This follows the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Education (DepEd), along with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), rolling out the fourth Joint Education Trifocal Management Committee Meeting at the Negros Oriental Convention Center in Dumaguete City. In a statement, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis explained that LINGAP is part of the government’s efforts to invest in support mechanisms for learners’ well-being. “When learners feel safe, supported, and guided, they are better able to learn, make informed choices, and pursue the opportunities ahead of them,” Agrupis said. A graduate scholarship support

program, LINGAP seeks to provide DepEd’s teaching and non-teaching personnel opportunities in the fields of guidance, counseling, and psychology. “Through LINGAP, we are investing in the professionals who can help our students navigate challenges and move forward with confidence,” Agrupis said. Under the program, LINGAP covers scholars’ tuition and other school fees. It also provides a P30,000 monthly living allowance and a research allowance of up to P150,000, subject to applicable scholarship policies. From 327 nominees shortlisted for Academic Year 2026–2027, DepEd selected about 230 scholars after identification, evaluation,

and validation. Scholars, meanwhile, are expected to take the applicable professional licensure examination upon completing their graduate studies. Under the 2026 General Appropriations Act, LINGAP has opened 870 scholarship slots, with about P182.055 million in fund allocation. Outside LINGAP, the three agencies also launched other key programs, including the Localized Access Pathways and Institutional Transitions (LAPIT) Index and the Integrated Ladderized Education-to-Employment Pathways (ILEEP). The LAPIT index collects data on gaps in learners' education pathways, while ILEEP offers alternative pathways from education to employment beyond the traditional four-year college route. Meanwhile, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara said the program responds to the long-standing shortage of guidance counselors, which he attributed partly to low salaries and stringent licensure requirements. The secretary recalled that while serving as a senator, he

learned that some regions had no guidance counselors and no students pursuing the profession, leaving schools with limited capacity to address learners’ mental health concerns. “We have long been planning this [program] due to the lack of guidance counselors…As such, our policy-makers are looking for ways to address the problem,” he said in mixed English and Filipino. The DepEd chief emphasized that addressing learners’ mental health requires a shared responsibility among education agencies, teachers, guidance counselors, and students. “No matter how skilled we are in pedagogy, no matter how many degrees or awards we have for being centers of excellence or for being outstanding professors, if our learners do not feel that we care about them, if our learners do not feel seen, if there is no connection between those teaching and being taught, I think we have not done our job adequately,” Angara said. As of January, the country had about 5,000 guidance counselors—fewer than 1,000 of whom were serving in the DepEd—and oversees around 45,000 schools, Agrupis shared.

Joint effort

LINGAP, which means “care,” is a DepEd-CHED joint initiative that provides scholarship opportunities for the department’s personnel pursuing graduate studies in guidance and counseling or psychology. About 800 scholarship slots are available nationwide, with 230 teacher-scholars making up the program’s first batch. Nine are from the Negros Island Region and received their awards during a recent ceremony. TESDA Secretary-General Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez said LINGAP is a step in the right direction toward addressing learners’ mental health concerns. He encouraged the 230 scholars to seize the opportunity, noting that many aspiring students lack the financial resources to pursue further studies and acquire additional skills. Mary Judaline Partlow & Stephanie Sevillano/PNA

Globe brings Khan Acad. AI Learning to more Filipinos through GoLEARN

S the country celebrates National Teachers’ Month, Globe is making quality digital learning easier for Filipino families to access while giving educators practical tools to support their students. Through its partnership with Khan Academy Philippines, the country’s leading digital platform is helping connect students, parents, and teachers to free learning resources that complement classroom learning. “Teachers play an extraordinary role in helping young Filipinos learn, grow, and keep moving forward, but they don’t have to do it alone,” said Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto. “Technology can lighten their load while giving students more ways to learn beyond the classroom. By making trusted learning resources easier to access, we hope to support teachers and families as partners in every child’s learning journey.” Globe is a partner of the National Teachers’ Month Coordinating Council, supporting efforts to recognize Filipino educators and help them thrive in an increasingly digital learning environment. This builds on the company’s broader

commitment to empowering teachers through technology and digital learning. Teachers can use Khan Academy to assign lessons and mastery goals, track student progress, and identify learning gaps that may require more attention. Khanmigo—an AI-powered tool available free to teachers—can also help with lesson planning, rubrics, exit tickets, differentiation, and other classroom preparation, so educators spend less time preparing from scratch and more time engaging students. As the first global licensee of the nonprofit K han Academy, Khan Academy Philippines is keen on localizing educational content

aligned with the Department of Education’s curriculum and using innovative technologies to elevate Philippine education. It received the first DepEd “Partner-Hero” award in January 2026. DepEd recently credited the academy with playing a key role in the country’s latest achievement in the Program for International Student Assessment or PISA. “Every learner should have the opportunity to learn at their own pace and get the support they need,” said President and CEO Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine of Khan Academy Philippines. “Working with Globe allows us to bring Khan Academy closer to more Filipino families and educators, making

quality learning resources easier to discover and use wherever learning happens.” Khan Academy is now available with Go59 (including 1 GB of allocated data) and Go+99 with GoLEARN (including 8 GB of allocated data), providing students access to free lessons anytime through the web or mobile app. This allocation also gives students and teachers access to Khanmigo. With it, learners can explore instructional videos, interactive exercises, quizzes, and other resources in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics or STEM; English; and more. Learning support can extend beyond the classroom and into the home. Parents can use the Parent Dashboard to monitor their child’s activity and spot areas where they may need support. Teachers can use assignments, mastery goals, and progress reports to identify learning gaps. Customers can subscribe to Go59 or Go+99 with GoLEARN through the GlobeOne app. Globe customers may also access Khan Academy by opening GlobeOne, tapping Help, then Looking for Life Essentials, and selecting Khan Academy to sign up or log in for free.

PROMINENT Filipino architect has called for significant changes in the Philippines’ architecture curriculum, urging schools and regulators to move beyond an education system heavily focused on drawing and separate academic subjects, toward one that develops students’ ability to integrate knowledge, think critically, and translate ideas into workable design concepts. In a recent interview with journalists, architect Ed Calma expressed concern about local regulations that require returning Filipino architects from overseas stints to study again for accreditation. “In one case, a professional with years of study and work experience abroad had to complete additional coursework upon returning home,” said Calma of Lor Calma and Associates during a press interview at the opening of the recently concluded “Anthology Asean Architecture Festival 2026” in Intramuros, Manila. The architect noted that such situations raised questions about whether existing accreditation frameworks adequately recognize different educational systems and the value of international experience. For him, the issue matters because many Filipino professionals who studied overseas want to return and help develop the country. He also cited his family's experience, explaining that his daughter studied architecture abroad and returned to the Philippines with ideas she hoped to apply locally. Calma said he wanted her—like other Filipino graduates of foreign institutions—to have a viable route toward professional practice. He pointed out that the goal is not to bypass the country’s licensing requirements but to make the system more responsive to qualified individuals who want to contribute their expertise.

‘Meaningful change’

CALMA said meaningful change would require more than adjustments to individual university programs. Institutions responsible for education, accreditation, and professional regulation must also reassess their structures and become more receptive to new approaches. “The current architecture curriculum no longer fits the realities of the profession,” he said. “At present, there is still too much emphasis on drawing. Sustainability is discussed, but it is often treated as a separate subject rather than integrated into the entire design process.” The architect continued: “When you ask a student how to…put a building together—how its different components work, how materials are selected, or how the building responds to environmental and structural considerations—the gaps in the curriculum become apparent.” Nevertheless, he said schools need to teach students a proper mindset and the right way of thinking to put ideas together. Calma also noted that architecture schools must be dynamic, as technology is always changing. Nevertheless, he feels that schools are caught in a “time warp,” so to speak: “They don’t train students to be able to synthesize all the subjects.” He said involving the Commission on Higher Education would be futile because it is only a regulatory body and cannot initiate changes to the architecture curriculum because “there are no architects in the organization.” “If you study at Harvard, you’re not accredited,” the architect said, while pointing to what he sees as an unintended consequence of a system that can place greater emphasis on local accreditation than on the quality and relevance of an individual’s professional experience. However, Calma stressed that allowing these professionals to

ARCHT. Calma

take the Philippine architecture licensure examination should not mean automatically granting them a license. For him, the issue is creating a pathway that lets qualified Filipino architects educated abroad demonstrate their competence through the same professional examination, rather than blocking them from entering the process in the first place. Instead, the architect said the country should find ways to bring these professionals and their expertise into the local architecture sector, particularly as the Philippines confronts rapidly changing demands in urban development, sustainability, and building design. “There should be a program where they make all these minds local,” Calma said, arguing that the country benefits when Filipino professionals with international knowledge and experience are encouraged to return and contribute. He added that these returning architects could also help build local capacity by transferring knowledge and technology to Filipino practitioners and students. “They would be hiring locals,” Calma pointed out, adding that returning Filipino architects could create opportunities for local professionals while introducing new approaches and international best practices to the industry.

Expertise not a threat

THE architect lamented what he described as an “overly protective and inward-looking” attitude in parts of the profession, saying the country should not treat international exposure and expertise as a threat. He described this attitude as a form of “crab mentality,” where professionals who have gained opportunities and knowledge outside the country may feel discouraged from bringing those capabilities home. For Calma, the challenge is to move beyond this mindset and recognize that the Philippine architecture profession can become stronger—not weaker—by opening itself to Filipino architects who have gained valuable experience overseas. Rather than building barriers around the profession, he said the country should develop mechanisms that allow qualified Filipinos to return, meet Philippine professional standards, and contribute to the local industry's development. Calma suggested the broader issue is whether the country's professional and educational systems are designed not only to regulate the profession but also to attract Filipino talent back home. As Filipino architects gain exposure to global practices, technologies, and approaches to sustainable development, Calma believes the Philippines should find ways to harness that expertise. For him, keeping these professionals out because of rigid accreditation rules risks depriving the country of valuable knowledge that could otherwise be shared with the next generation of Filipino architects. He insisted the goal should not be to give anyone a shortcut to becoming an architect, but to ensure qualified Filipino professionals have a fair opportunity to prove their competence and, ultimately, help build the country’s architectural capacity. Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

Tourism&Entertainment BusinessMirror

Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan

Saturday, October 17, 2026 A9

SPLASHING SUCCESS Underwater photo contest showcases best of Puerto Galera diving

Photos by Arabelle Jimenez

UERTO Galera in Oriental Mindoro is a go-to destination in the Philippines known for its excellent diving and underwater photography opportunities. Capturing photos or videos of marine life, such as fish, turtles, and colorful coral, is now growing popularity with guided tours by experienced dive masters and photographers. More than a hobby, underwater photography plays a significant role in marine conservation, environmental awareness, and ocean protection by raising awareness. It also documents changes, capturing images of coral bleaching, pollution, and other impacts, helping researchers track changes. It also motivates people to take action in protecting marine ecosystems, and promoting sustainable tourism. Through stunning visuals, underwater photography can evoke emotions, spark curiosity, and inspire people to care about the ocean and its inhabitants. The recently concluded first-ever Puerto Galera Underwater Shootout was a splashing success. Participated by 45 underwater photographers from different parts of the country, and some from different parts of the globe enjoyed five days of scuba diving, photography and camaraderie. The much-awaited Puerto Galera underwater Shootout was organized by the Depart of Tourism through the Office of Product Development (OPD)—Dive Philippines, which aims to sustain the position of the Philippines as a premier diving destination in the world. The OPD is headed by Rowena M. Sorioso, who revealed that the event was five years in the making. The Puerto Galera Underwater Shootout is building on the legacy of the Anilao Underwater Shootout that started eight years ago—widely dubbed as “The World Cup of Underwater Photo Competitions.” This year’s host destination, Puerto Galera, is not only a renowned dive hub but also the gateway to the Verde Island Passage, celebrated as the “center of the center” of global marine biodiversity. Its exceptional underwater landscapes and rich marine life recently earned Puerto Galera the Best Diving Destination Award at the DOT’s Philippine Tourism Awards 2025, further

AUTHOR Arabelle Jimenez explores a cavern near Nico’s Boulders in Calapan.

reinforcing its standing as a premier destination for underwater exploration and photography. We are honored to welcome back world-renowned underwater photographers who flew in from different parts of the world. There are so many great entries, we needed seasoned experts to do the judging. The distinguished panel of judges are composed of Jerome Kim from South Korea, Aaron Wong from Singapore, and Scott “Gutsy” Tuason from the Philippines. Their expertise and contributions to marine conservation brought prestige and inspiration to the event. The event is held in cooperation with the Department of Tourism Region IV-B MIMAROPA headed by Regional Director, Roberto III (Robby) Alabado, and the Municipality of Puerto Galera, with its current Mayor, Robinhood D. Ylagan. Here are the champions at the first Puerto Galera Underwater Shootout 2026:

Open Category:

Wide Angle—PJ Aristorenas Marine Behaviour—PJ Aristorenas Nudibranch—Alex Elmbaek Macro—Ronilo Corpuz

Compact Category:

Wide Angle—James Magsino Marine Behaviour—James Magsino Nudibranch—Julienne Evangelista Macro—Julienne Evangelista

Department of Tourism Special Awards: Best in Show Open Class—Ronilo Corpus

SPECTACULAR view from Scandi Divers Resort in Puerto Galera.

A COLORFUL Nudibranch rests at A MAZE of underwater ridges in Kamasuhan Twin Walls in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro. Chico's Pinnacle in Calapan.

MY dive group at Coral Reef Safari, from left; Monch Henares, Antony Steele, Crystal De Lara, Gutsy Tuason, Arabelle Jimenez, and Ciara Juan.

RICH marine life and flora abound in Monkey Beach dive site, Puerto Galera.

Best in Show Compact Class—James Magsino Turtle Special Category—PJ Aristorenas Cephalopods Special Category—PJ Aristorenas

Puerto Galera dive sites

PUERTO Galera features around 40 to 50 distinct dive sites. Most of these underwater locations are concentrated along the Sabang Bay and are highly accessible, sitting within a brief 5 to 15-minute boat ride from the local shorelines. During the recent Puerto Galera Underwater Shootout, our dive operator for the nearby dive sites was the LLV Divers, which operates in Lalaguna Villas. Special thanks to our Dive Master, Kent Aguilar who brought us to interesting, and fun dive adventures. My favorite was the wreck dive. The Alma Jane wreck is a Japanese cargo vessel, and sits at a maximum depth of 25 to 30 meters (82 to 98 feet) on the seabed. The dive site is located in Sabang Bay, Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. This popular wreck is encrusted with corals and boasts of a vibrant marine life. The wreck also functions as artificial reefs packed with batfish, frogfish, and ghost pipefish. The other areas we dove were the Sinandigan Wall, Monkey Beach, Lalaguna Point, and Fantasea, which offers a massive density of biodiversity, serving as hotspots for nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and protected giant tridacna oysters.

Diving Calapan with Coral Reef Safari

TAKING us to dive sites out of the ordinary were Naturalist Guides, Antony Steele and Crystal De Lara

Where heritage is not just seen, but lived

Story & photos by John Eiron R. Francisco

HE best souvenirs are not always the ones visitors take home. Sometimes, they are the details they cannot stop thinking about after leaving: a beautifully carved doorway, an old house, a hand-crafted piece, or a scene they wish they had spent more time looking at. That is the quiet appeal of art and craftsmanship. Often overlooked, but they can turn an ordinary visit into an experience that lingers. At Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan, this appreciation comes naturally. Every corner offers something to look at, making the destination feel less like a place to simply stay and more like a place to explore. Set across a sprawling 400-hectare property facing the shoreline of the West Philippine Sea, the resort currently operates on less than 100 hectares and is home to 64 heritage houses. Forty-two are original structures, while 22 are replicas based on historic houses from various parts of Luzon, including Bulacan, Pampanga, Manila, Laguna and Nueva Ecija. A recent addition is a Maranao house from Mindanao. Many of these heritage houses have been converted into accommodations, which allows guests to stay overnight or for several days, with more than 200 rooms available across different types. Eva Canta, a Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar tour guide of more than a decade, described the property to the BusinessMirror as a “living heritage museum,” where visitors can explore houses built during the 1800s and 1900s and gain a glimpse into how they were constructed and how Filipinos lived during those periods. “When you come here, it really feels like you have been transported back to the past,” she said, partly in Filipino. “It’s not just for display, because these [houses] also have historical value.”

of Coral Reef Safari, who are based in Sabang Beach, Puerto Galera. Off we went to traverse the Verde Island Passage together with my dive buddies Gutsy Tuason who is also one of the event’s distinguished judges, Ciara Juan, a scuba diving digital creator, and my partner Monch Henares, an award-winning automotive journalist. The Verde Passage, often dubbed the “crown jewel,” is a world-famous marine highway that’s 40-minute boat ride away from Puerto Galera, showcasing vertical walls dropping into the deep blue with unmatched coral density. It is widely recognized by scientists as the “center of the center” of marine biodiversity and the heart of the global Coral Triangle. Nico’s Boulders is an underwater dive site located off the coast of Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. The site is characterized by an underwater maze of ridges, dramatic rock formations, mini-walls, and a distinct marine cavern that divers can explore. The cavern is for advanced divers and underwater photographers that has natural swim-through chambers. Photographers frequently visit the cavern to capture the dramatic contrast between the dark interior structure and the bright, coral-filled marine life visible just outside the opening. The surrounding landscape is a vibrant maze of ridges, offering tight passages and mini-walls covered in colorful hard and soft corals. The Kamasuhan Twin Wall is a mermaid’s playground. Also known as Kamasuhan Dive Point, is a newly explored scuba diving site located off Harka Piloto Island within the Tatlong Pulo Archipelago near

cialties, including woodcarvers from Paete, Laguna, a town long associated with woodcarving. Other craftsmen work with plaster, while mosaic artisans collaborate with welders. Some produce ceiling tiles from plaster of Paris, while others create mosaic tiles and textures that add character to the structures. “Everything built here at the resort, from the fountains and the details along the sides to the riverside features, was carefully studied and thoughtfully designed by our artisans, including what elements to incorporate,” Canta explained.

More ways to explore Las Casas

ONE way to take in the scale and details of the property is through the Balsa River Cruise, which takes visitors around the area for more than 30 minutes. The cruise offers a different perspective of the heritage houses and their surroundings. Along the route, visitors pass beneath bridges, get a view of the stone church and see the different silhouettes of the houses from the water. Moving at a slow and steady pace, the cruise also gives visitors enough time to notice details that might otherwise be missed while walking around the property. Along the riverside, artworks come into view, some inspired by works of National Artists. For visitors looking for a more active itinerary, Las Casas also offers kayaking, ATV tours, yacht experiences, biking, kalesa rides and horseback riding. There are options for those who want to spend more time on the water, including island-hopping trips, party boats, sailboat experiences, sunset cruises, fishing packages and banana boat rides. Guests can also book a private island lunch combined with a beach adventure. Yet the experience is not limited to leisure activities. Those interested in the history and culture of the property can join heritage walking tours and workshop tours, or watch the Las Casas Parade, Freedom Land Show and cultural performances. But the houses themselves are only part of what draws the eye. Inside the structures are intricate wood carvings,

paintings, mosaics and other decorative elements incorporated into walls, floors and architectural features. The work is carried out by artisans with different spe-

Beyond the Filipino market

FILIPINOS make up the majority of visitors to Las Casas, but the destination has also begun attracting

A CLOWNFISH at the Fantasea dive site in Puerto Galera.

Calapan, Oriental Mindoro. The dive site features a maze of ridges, underwater passages, and coral-adorned mini-walls forming a twin wall structure. Depth is generally from 5 to 45 meters across the broader Calapan island group sites. Marine life has diverse hard and soft corals, large barrel sponges, sea fans, reef fish, and macro species. Chico’s Pinnacle boasts imposing underwater structures and pinnacles blanketed in pristine hard and soft corals. We encountered macro species, healthy reef fish schools, pristine sea turtles, and banded sea snakes navigating the gentle current.

Where to stay and how to get there

WE stayed at Scandi Divers Resort, located right on the serene shores of Big La Laguna Beach in Puerto Galera. It offers a complete beachfront lodging and dining experience tailored perfectly for scuba divers and leisure travelers. It combines quick access to the area’s premier dive sites with a peaceful, familyfriendly vacation. The house reef is also perfect for snorkeling, and non-divers can enjoy the white sand stretch of beach in front of the resort. To go to Puerto Galera from Manila, take a bus, or drive a car from Metro Manila to Batangas Pier which takes 2 to 3 hours, then board a ferry or fastcraft to Balatero Port or Sabang in Puerto Galera (1 to 1.5 hours). Hap & Go Sea Transport Services provides fast private speedboat water taxi transfers between Berberabe Port in Batangas City and Puerto Galera (such as Sabang Beach), with a travel time of about 30 minutes.

travelers from other countries. Canta said the property receives visitors from various nationalities, including Chinese, Koreans and Americans. Chinese tourists make up a significant share of its foreign visitors, she said, partly because of the Philippines’ proximity to China and their interest in historical heritage and architecture. The property, meanwhile, also tends to see more visitors during the “ber” months, when educational tours bring students to the destination, which is nearly a three-hour drive from Manila. For Canta, however, seeing the houses is only one part of understanding them. “For better understanding ng resort, kailangan talaga ng someone who will guide you. Kasi kung titignan mo lang ang mga bahay na yan, hindi naman yan magsasalita,” she said. She recalled that when she first entered Las Casas, she saw the old houses much like any other visitor would. She found herself asking: What is the story behind them? It was only during her training that she began to understand the history behind the structures and see them differently. What initially appeared to be old houses became pieces of a much larger story, with each structure carrying details about the places, periods and people from which they were drawn. That is perhaps one of the advantages of having so many heritage structures gathered in one destination. Since the houses come from different provinces, visitors can encounter architectural styles and elements associated with places such as Bulacan, Pampanga, Laguna, Nueva Ecija and Manila without having to travel to each one separately. For travelers with limited time, Las Casas offers a condensed way of encountering these different chapters of Filipino architectural heritage in one setting. But the experience is not simply about seeing many old houses in one place. It is about having the time to look closer, learn the stories behind them and understand why the details matter. And sometimes, that is what makes a place worth remembering: not just what you saw, but what you learned to notice.

A10 Saturday, October 17, 2026

TheWorld

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Bolsonaro, Lula in tight race ahead of runoff, poll shows

LÁVIO BOLSONARO and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are locked in a close race ahead of Brazil’s runoff election, according to a new poll. Bolsonaro would take 51% of valid votes, excluding blank and null ballots, to Lula’s 49%, according to a Datafolha survey published T hursday. T he gap is within the sur vey’s 2-point margin of error.

The right-wing senator led by 4 points in last week’s Datafolha poll. The shifts for both candidates were also within the poll’s margin of error. Bolsonaro finished ahead of Lula in the first round of the presi-

dential contest on Oct. 4, sparking a surge in Brazilian assets because investors broadly view him as more likely to pursue spending cuts and address the country’s deteriorating fiscal situation. He outperformed Datafolha’s final poll of the first round by about 5 points. The leftist Lula, 80, has sought to regain momentum ahead of the Oct. 25 runoff, staging large street rallies and a last-minute legislative push. Late Wednesday, the Senate gave final passage to his plan to shorten Brazil’s workweek, the f lagship promise of Lula’s campaign. Lower house lawmakers also

approved his proposal to forgive debts of so-called microentrepreneurs, the latest in a series of initiatives Lula has put forward in a bid to alleviate high levels of household indebtedness. On Thursday, he announced that he will propose legislation to prov ide free public transportation in Brazilian cities on weekends. Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, has pledged to take an aggressive approach to crime, which ranks as one of voters’ top concerns. He’s also vowed to seek the impeachment of the Supreme Court justice

who oversaw his father’s conviction for attempting a coup following the 2022 election. He has also called for a “big cut” to spending, although he’s provided few details about his fiscal plans. The latest battleground between the two candidates is a bill that proposes an overhaul of public security, including closer cooperation between federal and local forces as well as harsher sentences for those convicted of organized crime offenses. The measure is part of Lula’s bid to blunt Bolsonaro’s advantage on a top-of-mind concern for Brazilians and counter perceptions he’s

soft on crime. But at the last minute, Bolsonaro’s allies proposed adding a provision to lower the age of criminal responsibility in an effort to pressure his rival. Lula, who has historically opposed punitive measures, said in an interview with TV Globo late Thursday that he supports lowering the age at which individuals can be criminally prosecuted for heinous crimes to 16 from 18. Bolsonaro argues it should be lowered further to 14. “This is something we’ve defended for decades,” Bolsonaro said on a YouTube live with allies earlier on Thursday. Bloomberg New

New China-North Korea bridge opens after more than a decade of delay Trump press secretary says she didn’t pass bar, downplays result

EIJING—A new bridge linking China and North Korea opened Thursday after more than a decade of delay, signaling deeper ties between the two countries. Officials from the two countries attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the launch of the New Yalu River Bridge, with trucks adorned with the national flags of China and North Korea waiting on the bridge. Both countries said they expected that the four-lane, 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) crossing, which connects the northeastern Chinese city of Dandong to the North Korean city of Sinuiju, would further promote economic, trade and “people-to-people” exchanges. “The relations between China and North Korea have entered a new stage, embarking on a new chapter,” Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in a video address at the ceremony, according to China’s official Xinhua News Agency. Li said that the crossing would become a new landmark symbolizing the two nations’ traditional friendship. He hoped both sides would seize the opportunity of the opening to continue to enhance connectivity and explore potential for cooperation in border areas, Xinhua said. North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song said in his video address that he was

NATIONAL flags of China and North Korea are seen around a gate leading to a North Korean customs facility, seen from Dandong, China, ahead of the opening ceremony of the China-North Korea Yalu River Bridge at the border between the two countries Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026. IORI SAGISAWA/KYODO NEWS VIA AP

confident the bridge would “accelerate the advance for the prosperity of the two countries and the well-being of the peoples,” according to the North’s official Korean Central News Agency. Bridge opens after a 12-year delay

The bridge initially was expected to enter use in 2014, when China had apparently completed construction on its side. But North Korea had not done corresponding work on its side at the time. The absence of substantial work in

Sinuiju fueled speculation that Pyongyang was wary of becoming more economically dependent on China or displeased with Beijing voting for United Nations resolutions toughening international sanctions on the North over its nuclear program. Some observers suggested North Korea and China also differed over the bridge’s location. The setback over the bridge prompted an unusually sharp report in the Global Times, a newspaper affiliated with the ruling Chinese Communist Party, which quoted Dandong residents expressing frustration over delays in what they had hoped would be an economic boon for their border city. Observers said the new bridge would likely boost bilateral trade and enhance logistical efficiency. It is expected to lessen the burden on an aging bridge on the Dandong-Sinuiju route, which handles more than 70% of official trade between the two countries. That decades-old bridge carries a railway line as well as cars and trucks, but vehicle traffic can move only one way at a time. “The new bridge could facilitate trade that violates U.N. sanctions, but traffic across it could be more transparent and subjec t to customs than crossborder smuggling,” said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. AP

HITE House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia acknowledged Thursday that she did not pass the California bar exam, but downplayed the results as she sought to get past mounting questions over her legal credentials. Zacharia said it was “correct” that she had not passed during an interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity on Thursday night and told him that she did not sit for the bar a second time. “I graduated Pepperdine, got married in the same week, and we had all intent to move out to China,” Zacharia said, referring to her husband, who worked for a private equity firm in that country. “I had already pre-registered for the bar exam, and during—basically during the summer—I knew I would be living in China, and the results of the bar were inconsequential. And I sat for it because I didn’t want to have a withdraw status.” Zacharia said that when she moved to China, she got a job “in an international practice of a Chinese law firm” where she did “multi-cross country border transactions and multi-million dollar shareholder agreements.” The new press secretary, whom President Donald Trump described as “an attorney” when announcing her appointment, has faced scrutiny over her legal career. The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that Zacharia had failed the bar exam in her home state of California before moving to China. Zacharia in an earlier interview Thursday said she had sought advice from legal professionals who told her it was acceptable to call herself a lawyer and provide legal analysis instead of legal advice. “They said: ‘absolutely, absolutely across the board. You can call yourself a lawyer. You have a JD, and to buffer that, you have international legal experience in transactional law, which gives you the ability to analyze it, not necessarily give advice,” she said in an

interview with the conservative outlet Real America’s Voice. “The truth is, is I was very careful how I executed this, and I never came across as someone who was an attorney at law.” Hannity pressed her on those comments later Thursday, saying that there was “a report out tonight that showed 15 social media posts where you identify yourself as an attorney.” “I think they were retweets, and I corrected the record and said that those are not endorsing the title. They were retweets of a title that had been given,” Zacharia said. A JD or Juris Doctor is a graduate-level degree for people seeking to practice law in the US. Zacharia earned her degree from Pepperdine Law School in 2011, according to an announcement from the university. The White House has defended Zacharia over the questions regarding her legal career but did not address Zacharia’s status as a lawyer when asked about the Journal report. “Katie is a fabulous and wonderful addition to the team,” White House communications director Steven Cheung said in a statement. “She is uniquely qualified and whip smart to help inform the American people about all the great things President Trump and his administration have been doing, and she will do an incredible job as press secretary.” According to the American Bar Association, someone in the US who graduates from law school cannot practice law or present themselves as an attorney before passing a bar exam and being admitted to a state bar. Zacharia posted Trump’s announcement of her appointment, including the assertion that she was an attorney. Adding to the scrutiny over Zacharia was her first press briefing earlier this week, in which she read haltingly from prepared remarks and only took three questions from journalists. Bloomberg News

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Saturday, October 17, 2026 A11

PM Mark Carney says US is trying to break Canada as Alberta votes on separation path By Rob Gillies

The Associated Press

ALGARY, Alberta—Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned Thursday that the United States is trying to break Canada so it can “own us” as he urged oil-rich Alberta not to begin a process toward separation in Monday’s referendum. The vote is not a direct referendum on independence. Alberta, which has the world’s fourth-largest proven oil reserves, will decide whether to remain a province or instruct the government to begin the legal process toward a future referendum on separation. “This referendum comes at the worst possible time,” Carney told a large pro-Canada rally in Calgary. “The world has become more dangerous and divided. Some outside our borders are working to break us so they can own us.” He did not directly mention the US or its President Donald Trump in that passage, but has done so in similar past speeches. Carney’s warning came as US President Donald Trump wages a trade war with Canada and after his repeated threats to make Canada the 51st US state. Carney has argued that Canada needs to become more economically resilient and less dependent on the United States. Carney urged Albertans not to use the vote simply to send Ottawa a message, saying a decisive result could settle the separation question. “Don’t be fooled by the idea you can ‘send a message’ with your vote,” Carney said. “This is not poker. A vote against Canada is a dangerous bluff that will lead to years of deep division and great uncertainty.”

Carney makes the case for Canada CARNEY, who grew up in Alberta, spent Thursday campaigning in Calgary before addressing the Forever Canadian rally at the BMO Centre. His office estimated about 5,000 people attended, with some waiting more than two hours to get through security. Organizers were also holding a second rally with Carney in Edmonton on Friday. Earlier Thursday, he pointed to the many Albertans who were born or educated elsewhere in Canada and to firefighters who come from across the country to help Alberta during wildfires as examples of the ties binding the province to the rest of Canada. At the rally, Carney also acknowledged the grievances that have fueled alienation in Alberta. “The frustrations that many Albertans have felt are real,” he said.

Carney said that while growing up, Ottawa made Albertans feel “like our resources weren’t our own” and that more recently the province was made to feel its energy contributions were “against the tides of history.”

A Liberal PM finds unlikely support THE setting is striking for a Liberal prime minister. Alberta has spent decades feuding with Liberal governments in Ottawa, particularly over energy and federal power. But Carney has broken with some of the policies associated with his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, fast-tracked a proposed new oil pipeline to the Pacific and called Canada an energy superpower. Carney pointed to the Pacific Link pipeline as evidence of a changed relationship, saying it would create more than 140,000 jobs and generate revenue for social programs. His big gest cheer came when he said the pipeline would reduce Canada’s dependence on the United States. “Careful, they might think that’s election interference. A little touchy,” Carney joked, drawing laughter. He was referring to US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra’s warning to Canadian politicians not to interfere in the US midterm elections. Tanya Clemens, co-chair of the pro-independence group Let Alberta Decide, acknowledged Carney presents a challenge. “He’s formidable for sure,” Clemens told The Associated Press. Clemens argued, however, that Carney’s agreements with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith amount to “pinky promises” that do not resolve longstanding grievances with Ottawa. Keith Wilson, another leader of Let Alberta Decide, rejected Carney’s argument that global instability made this the wrong time for the vote. “The worst timing for this, why? I don’t understand what’s the logic,” Wilson said. “Then it’s the best time for him to get back to Ottawa.” Wilson said Carney should ask Parliament to repeal federal measures that separatists say have hurt Alberta, including authority he says could be used to tax oil exports in retaliation against the United States. He predicted Carney would eventually impose such a tax despite Carney saying he sees no value in using Canadian energy exports as leverage against the US. “It’s one cabinet meeting away,” Wilson said. “He’s gonna do it. He has to do it.” Smith, who called the vote but supports remaining in Canada, cast her ballot Wednesday and said she voted for Alberta to remain in Canada. She has said support for separation remains

Taiwan to curb AI chip exports to China as part of US trade deal

AIWAN is preparing to tighten export controls on AI chips to further align with US restrictions, according to a senior official in Taipei, joining a Trump administration clampdown on the smuggling of cutting-edge semiconductors to China. Taipei plans to add artificial intelligence (AI) servers and cutting-edge semiconductors to a list of controlled items, Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin told Bloomberg News. After the measures take effect, he said, shipping restricted AI hardware to China will become a criminal offense under the Foreign Trade Act. “Going forward, some of our measures on controlled items will correspond to American ones because we have made quite some commitments in the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade,” Kung said in an interview on Oct. 12, referring to the trade deal that the US and Taiwan signed this year, though he declined to elaborate on when the government will implement the new measures. The US has long restricted Chinese purchases of AI chips from Nvidia Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc., but companies in China have still managed to get their hands on the coveted accelerators through

a sophisticated black market. US officials have alleged that billions of dollars’ worth of Nvidia hardware has made its way to China over the past few years. Taiwan currently doesn’t treat unauthorized AI chip exports to China as a crime. While Taiwanese officials warn potential sellers that they may be violating US rules if they ship to China, the only legal recourse through the island’s courts is to charge suspected smugglers with violations of other, existing local laws. Once the new measures are in place, the controls would be among the strictest measures from President Lai Ching-te’s administration to safeguard Taiwan’s technological and national security interests, as Taipei tests its comfort levels with more assertive policies—and manages pressure from American officials on multiple fronts. Lai has previously said Taiwan will address unspecified US concerns over export controls, without offering details. Local authorities were exploring more legal tools to address diversion of advanced hardware to enable Taiwan to prosecute AI chip smuggling to China as a criminal violation for the first time, Bloomberg News reported earlier this year. Bloomberg News

too high for her liking. “Canada can still work,” Smith said after voting. “We just need to make some changes.” Daniel Béland, a political science professor at McGill University, called Carney’s popularity in Alberta “highly unusual” for a Liberal prime minister. He said Carney has also benefited from a “Trump effect,” as Trump’s trade war

and 51st-state threats have rallied Canadians around their leader—even in Alberta.

From the political fringe to a provincewide vote THE referendum marks a remarkable rise for a cause long relegated to Alberta’s political fringes. After the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022

Freedom Convoy, activists who had organized against vaccine mandates and other restrictions turned their attention to Alberta independence. The convoy began over vaccine requirements for cross-border truckers but grew into a broader protest against pandemic restrictions, paralyzing downtown Ottawa and blocking major Canada-U.S. border crossings.

Clemens said COVID accelerated the movement by teaching people how to organize politically and become more involved in party politics. She said separatists also see Monday’s vote not simply as a step toward independence but as a way to give Alberta leverage in negotiations with Ottawa. Advance voting runs through Saturday, with the final vote Monday.

A12 Saturday, October 17, 2026

Sports BusinessMirror

mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph | Editor: Jun Lomibao

GEARING UP FOR LA2028 Test of nerves R in South Pacific month’s Nagoya Asian Games where the elder Yulo scooped the f loor exercise and vault golds and the younger of the two clinching bronze in the horizontal bar. Action for the Yulos begins Sunday with the individual all-around qualification although Miguel Besana kicks off the Philippine campaign in the men’s high bar and Haylee Garcia in the women’s individual all-around qualification on Sunday at Rotterdam’s Ahoy Centre. “We’ll be able to scout the competition here in Rotterdam for next year’s qualifiers,” Yulo said. “Besides, I’ll be able to master and polish my patience because the world championships take longer that the Olympics.” The team’s coach and trainer, Aldrin Castañeda, believes the Yulos won’t end up empty in Rotterdam despite a stronger field from Asia, Europe and the Americas. “These are more difficult than the Asian Games but I believe the brothers will be able to show the world that they belong here,” Castañeda said. “Right now, the weather is colder [19 degrees], but that doesn’t pose a problem.” Josef Ramos

OTTERDAM could be another day in the office for certified elite gymnast Carlos Yulo who’s treating the world championships that starts Saturday as part of his preparations for another shot at Olympic glory in 2028 in Los Angeles. “These world championships is important for me because I will be able to grasp and [get a] feel of what next year’s championships could be,” said Yulo, who’ll be competing in his seventh world championships in The Netherlands—this time with younger brother Karl Eldrew. “Next year’s world championships are more important because they are the qualifiers for the Los Angeles Olympics,” added Yulo, who’s illustrious resumé includes gold medals in floor exercise (Stuttgart 2019) and vault (Kitakyushu 2021) and Jakarta (2025) on top of the golds in both events in Paris. “These world championships will help make me more prepared and sharper for next year,” he added. Next year’s world championships—set September 29 in Chengdu, China—and the world rankings will again be the basis for qualification for Los Angeles. Yulo will again be competing with Karl Eldrew with the siblings hoping to duplicate their successful campaigns in last

ZARAGOSA

After several previous campaigns in which he contended but failed to close the deal, Zaragosa finally put everything together at Pueblo de Oro as he stayed within striking distance through the first three rounds before delivering a closing 68 to edge Keanu Jahns and Zanieboy Gialon by one. Zaragosa hopes to carry that same composure and winning mindset into South Pacific, where a formidable cast of contenders is poised to renew the circuit’s run of nail-biting finishes. The recent run of close calls has been remarkable—Angelo Que edged Aidric Chan by two strokes at Summit Point, Art Arbole captured his breakthrough victory in Negros Occidental by one over Jeffren Lumbo and Jhonnel Ababa ended a two-year title drought with another one-shot triumph over Lumbo in Iloilo. Zaragosa then kept the trend going at Pueblo de Oro, setting up another potentially dramatic showdown in Davao. The South Pacific Classic is the penultimate stop of the 10-leg circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. and the tour then moves to the nearby Apo Golf and Country Club next week for the season-ending leg.

Miranda wills Bulacan squad in crucial MPBL game

HE International Container Terminal Services Inc. South Pacific Classic looms as another test of nerve and precision when the P2.5-million championship unfolds Tuesday at the South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates in Davao City. Rupert Zaragosa’s narrow escape at last Thursday’s Pueblo de Oro Championship underscored the depth, parity and unpredictability in the Philippine Golf Tour, where no player has established a commanding edge and the title remains anyone’s for heading into the four-day battle for the crown and the top prize. Zaragosa bogeyed the final hole without realizing he had done enough to secure the victory, with his caddie ultimately assuring him that he had survived a tense finish to snap a yearlong title drought. “I actually had a feeling I could win at Pueblo because everything felt right,” said Zaragosa, who claimed his fourth career title following his breakthrough victory in Iloilo in 2023 and back-to-back triumphs at the Negros Occidental stop in 2024 and 2025. “My game was in good shape, I was hitting the ball well, and my putting was coming together. I felt I had a real chance.”

Tao, Malaysian partner tops in KL

HE Meycauayan Marilao Gems fielded back their brightest stars in time to trip the Pasay Voyagers, 57-53, on Thursday and force a deciding Game 3 for a semifinals slot in the SportsPlus Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League 2026 Season at the Meycauayan Sports Complex in Bulacan. After some respite, Agem Miranda and Jayson Apolonio returned in the last three and a half

CARLOS (right) and Eldrew Yulo are bringing the momentum from their successful campaign in Nagoya to Rotterdam. POC MEDIA PHOTO

minutes and carried the Gems past the Voyagers, avenging their 64-66 defeat in the North Division series opener on October 9. The fourth-seeded Gems and the fifth-seeded Voyagers will tangle for the right to battle the top-ranked Abra Solid North Weavers in the semifinal round on Monday at the same venue. With Pasay ahead 49-42, Miranda followed up his own miss

to score, and then added a layup against two charities by Voyager Lennard Santiago to put the Gems ahead, 52-51. Kriss Kelly Gurtiza also converted two charities to push Pasay back on top, 53-52. Apolonio then took over, making three free throws before missing the fourth, and Joshua Guiab added two more free throws in the last 48.8 seconds, when the Voyagers failed to score. Miranda, former star of the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers, chalked up 14 points, 10 rebounds, three steals, three blocks and two assists to clinch the SportsPlus best player honors over Apolonio, who notched 9 points, 13 rebounds and three steals. Robin Nayve supported with 10 points and 2 rebounds, followed by Guiab with 6 points. It was a see-saw contest from the start, with neither team ahead by more than four points, with 29 lead changes and 13 deadlocks. Defending champion Abra Solid North, meanwhile, warmed up early before cruising past Quezon City, 84-70, to advance to the semifinal phase of the North Division. Powered by Fil-Am J Fenner, the Abra Weavers pulled away after the first quarter, 24-9, and never looked back in sweeping the eight-seeded Black Bulls, 2-0. Abra, the Philippines’s lone representative in the East Asia Super League 2026-27 Season, routed Quezon City, 106-54, in Game 1.

AGEM MIRANDA shines for the Meycauayan Marilao Gems. MPBL PHOTO

Stakeholders tasked for more roles as volleyball body gets act together

TAKEHOLDERS will now have a direct and stronger voice in the formation of the national volleyball teams heading into major international tournaments. Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Executive Director Atty. Miguel Carlos Pacifico Suarez announced on Friday that the federation is taking a highlycollaborative approach by creating a dedicated National Team Commission. The five-man panel is designed to enable major stakeholders to air their concerns and align schedules before formally assembling the rosters for the Alas Pilipinas Men and Women squads. Suarez emphasized that the creation of the commission ensures the federation leadership moves away from the old practice of making unilateral decisions regarding national team selection, calendar management, and player availability. No less than PNVF president Frank

Lao will chair the powerful body with key stakeholders like Sherwin Malonzo of the Premier Volleyball League, Dr. Ian Laurel of the Shakey’s Super League, Fr. Victor Calvo of the National Collegiate Athletic Association and Bo Perasol of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines as members. Malonzo and Laurel bring deep administrative experience from previous PNVF setups, while Calvo and Perasol oversee the nation’s top collegiate sports programs, ensuring full representation across all levels of Philippine volleyball. “The establishment of the National Team Commission is a major step in the right direction. By giving stakeholders a direct and stronger voice, we are ensuring a more inclusive, transparent, and collaborative approach to forming and supporting our national team,” Suarez said in an official statement.

TAO YEE TAN wields winning racket on foreign soil. PADEL PILIPINAS PHOTO

ADEL Pilipinas’s Tao Yee Tan continued her international campaign with a title-winning performance at the recent Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) Arla Protein Open Kuala Lumpur. Tan teamed up with Spanish player Eli Nogueras to capture the Pro Female division title after the pair scored a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Spanish duo Claudia Manzanares and Claudia Oses in the semifinals and beat Spanish player Elisabeth Estrada and Malaysian Elysia Wan, 6-3, 6-2, in the final. The victory marked another international title for Tan following her performance at the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026, where she competed alongside fellow national players Marian Capadocia, Danna Abad and Joshea Malazarte in the women’s division. Also representing the Philippines in Kuala Lumpur was Abad, who also made a historic run in Nagoya by reaching the semifinals with doubles partner Malazarte. Tan’s latest triumph adds to the growing list of international results for Filipino athletes competing on the padel circuit, reflecting the value of continued exposure to high-level competition. “With this special panel, we are removing the old practice of leadership making unilateral decisions without consulting key stakeholders on player schedules and availability. We are now giving everyone a unified voice to guarantee a far more collaborative and sustainable national team program.” Since taking the helm of the PNVF last August, Lao has prioritized integrity, transparency, and accountability. To stabilize the organization, the businessmansportsman used his personal funds to settle outstanding financial liabilities and obligations inherited from previous administrations.

Brooke, Chameleons vs Foxies

Brooke Van Sickle, still working her way back to peak form following a minor shoulder injury, and the Nxled Chameleons take on the Farm Fresh Foxies in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Siklab Series at 1 p.m. on Saturday at the Playtime Filoil Centre in San Juan City. The other matches pit Galeries Tower against Creamline at 6 p.m. after the Spikers’ Turf match between Alpha Insurance and Far Eastern University-DN Steel at 3:30 p.m. PVL IMAGES

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Saturday, October 17, 2026

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Saturday, October 17, 2026

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