MANILA, Philippines
— A modest expansion in assets, healthy trading gains and resilient margins delivered a new record net income of P49.7 billion to Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) in 2025.
Metrobank’s bottom line was up 3.3 percent from its previous record of P48.1 billion in 2024.
The Ty family-led bank said preprovision operating profit jumped 17.1 percent to P78.4 billion. This reflected stronger core earnings and sustained business momentum.
Metrobank president Fabian S. Dee said the bank’s performance underscored its commitment to disciplined growth while continuing to support businesses and consumers.
“We continue to strengthen our balance sheet while expanding support to businesses and consumers who drive the Philippine economy,” Dee said. “Our focus remains clear, and that is, to grow alongside our stakeholders and contribute to the country’s sustained progress.”
Net interest income increased 9.2 percent to P124.6 billion, in line with an 8.8-percent expansion in gross loans.
Corporate and commercial lending grew 7.4 percent, while consumer loans rose faster at 13.9 percent.
Total deposits reached P2.7 trillion, with low-cost current and savings accounts making up 59.2 percent of the total.
The bank’s loan-to-deposit ratio stood at 74.9 percent, indicating room to extend more credit.
Non-interest income climbed 11.6 percent to P33.5 billion, supported by a 47.2-percent surge in trading and foreign exchange income. Fee and trust income also increased by 6 percent to P19.2 billion. Slower growth of expenses
Meanwhile, operating expenses rose at a slower pace of 3.3 percent. This improved the cost-toincome ratio to 50.7 percent from 53.8 percent a year earlier.
Asset quality remained healthy, with the nonperforming loan ratio at 1.7 percent, lower than the industry average of 3.2 percent.
The bank also maintained a high nonperforming loan cover ratio of 140.8 percent, providing a buffer against potential credit risks.
Metrobank’s balance sheet also expanded further, with total consolidated assets rising 10.2 percent to P3.88 trillion.
Equity increased 9.4 percent to P421.7 billion.
Capital adequacy ratio stood at 16.8 percent and Common Equity Tier 1 ratio at 16.1 percent, both well above regulatory requirements.
The bank’s liquidity coverage ratio remained strong at 181.7 percent.
Against this backdrop, Metrobank’s board approved total cash dividends of P5 per share for 2026. This consists of a regular dividend of P3 per share and a special dividend of P2 per share. The first payout of P3.50 per share will be released to shareholders on record as of March 9.
23, 2026
Lacson backs bid to remove ‘defeatist’ remarks from CA records
MANILA, Feb 20 (Mabuhay) -- Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson on Thursday backed the call of the Municipality of Kalayaan to expunge from the Commission on Appointments (CA) records the “defeatist” remarks of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta about the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG).
Lacson said a formal motion must be filed to strike the statements from the CA record, stressing that proper procedure should be observed.
“A motion to strike off the records of the CA is needed. A letter addressed to CA Chairman Senate President Vicente Sotto III through the CA Defense Committee Chairman will serve as a strong basis for such a motion,” he said.
In a radio interview, Lacson also warned that retaining the remarks in the official record could weaken the Philippines’ position over the KIG.
“Definitely. Kasi nanggaling sa isang senador mismo at nandoon sa record mawi-weaken ang position natin maski papano di ba kasi nasa record. Mas maganda matanggal ‘yan sa record ng CA (Definitely because that remark came from a senator and it may weaken our position. It is better if it is removed from the CA’s records),” he said.
“I’d like to believe hindi niya minemean exactly sinabi niya pero napakaliwanag sinabi niya, ‘give up’ natin para
wala tayong problema. Ano ba interpretation nyo pag sinabing give up natin? Give up, ibigay na lang para walang gulo (I’d like to believe he did not mean exactly what he said, but it was clearly stated. How else can we interpret ‘give up’ other than to surrender it to avoid trouble),” he added.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Kalayaan, in Resolution No. 099-016 dated Feb. 16, 2026, expressed “vigorous indignation and formal protest” against the remarks and formally petitioned the CA to expunge such statements from the congressional records “to preserve the dignity and integrity of our municipality.”
A copy of the resolution was sent to the office of Sotto and was received on Feb. 18, 2026, according to the document.
In a message to reporters, Sotto said he would first determine the proper process.
“Let me look into it first and find out the process to follow. Only because it was done in a committee hearing therefore it might need a different procedure,” he said.
The questioned remarks by Marcoleta were made during a CA committee hearing earlier this month involving discussions on the KIG, a municipality of Palawan in the West Philippine Sea. (MNS)
PBBM to visit Naga City, meet ex-VP Robredo
MANILA, Feb 20 (Mabuhay) -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will visit Naga City on Saturday for the government’s massive cleanup campaign, where he is expected to meet with former vice president, now Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, Malacañang said Thursday.
The visit, according to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, is part of the administration’s “Oplan Kontra Baha” program, which aims to clear canals, esteros, and rivers to mitigate flooding.
When asked about political discussions or potential alliances, Castro said none had been planned.
“Wala po kasi talaga na pag-uusapan tungkol sa pangangampaniya o
kung sino man ang magiging kandidato sa 2028 (There is really nothing to discuss about the campaign or who will run in the 2028 presidential elections),” Castro said.
“Napakaaga po para mamolitika. Andami pong dapat na ayusin sa bansa natin. Masyadong maaga ang pag-usapan kung sino tatakbo sa 2028 (It is too early for politics. Many things need to be fixed in our country. It is too early to talk about who will run in 2028).”
Castro also dismissed speculation about political signaling, especially that the visit will happen just days after Vice President Sara Duterte announced her candidacy for president. (MNS)
EMBRACING MODERN THERAPIES FOR HEART HEALTH AND WELL - BEING
Exploring Massage, Physical, Occupational, and Mental Therapy as Pathways to Wellness
Have you noticed how therapy isn’t just for injuries or tough times anymore? These days, more and more folks are turning to therapy as a way to stay healthy—body and mind. Whether you’re being stretched out on a massage table or sitting across from a counselor, modern therapies are proving to be much more than quick fixes. They’re helping people take charge of their heart health and enjoy a better quality of life.
The Rise of Therapy for Wellness
Let’s talk about the big four: massage, physical, occupational, and mental health counseling. Each one tackles a different need, but they all aim for the same thing—helping you feel good, inside and out. Experts say these therapies can actually lower your blood pressure, ease stress, and boost movement and circulation. That’s a win for your heart and for your overall well-being.
Therapies at a Glance
Massage Therapy: Remember when massages were just a treat? Now, they’re backed by science. Regular massages can lower your systolic blood pressure and help with chronic pain. You’ll find them at spas and clinics, and if your doctor says it’s medically necessary, your insurance might even cover it.
Physical Therapy: If you’ve ever bounced back from an injury or surgery,
you know how crucial physical therapy can be. It’s all about restoring movement and avoiding future setbacks. People often see big gains in activity and heart health, especially after cardiac surgery. Just a heads up: insurance usually needs a doctor’s referral.
Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists are the heroes who help you get back to everyday life after illness or injury. They work with everyone from kids with developmental challenges to adults recovering from heart attacks. Their goal? Independence, healthy routines—and yes; referrals are standard for insurance coverage.
Mental Therapy: Counseling, psychotherapy, whatever you call it; mental therapy is there for anxiety, depression, trauma, or life changes. Taking care of your mental health can actually help your heart by lowering blood pressure and reducing heart disease risk. Pairing this therapy with the other therapies can even give you quicker results in your goals for better health and wellness.
Shared Goals and Collaborative Care No matter which therapy you choose, you’re working with certified professionals who want to help you heal, manage pain and stress, and reclaim your independence. Therapists often team up with your primary care doctor and other specialists to make sure your care is personalized and holistic. This teamwork means you’re not just treating symptoms—you’re making lasting
changes for your heart and overall wellness. Stress reduction? That’s a big deal for preventing heart disease. Rehab? It can boost your cardiovascular endurance for the long haul.
Who will Benefit from Modern Therapies?
Massage Therapy: Great for adults, seniors, athletes, and even kids (with a parent’s OK). If you’ve got muscle tension, chronic pain, or stress—all linked to heart disease—massage can help.
Physical Therapy: If you’re recovering from an injury, surgery, or dealing with mobility issues, this one’s for you. Seniors, athletes, heart patients— physical therapy is a gamechanger for rehab.
Occupational Therapy: Perfect for children with developmental needs, adults adapting to life after strokes or heart attacks, and anyone aiming to get back on their feet for day-to-day activities.
Mental Therapy: Open to all ages; mental therapy is there for anyone facing emotional hurdles, anxiety, depression, or big life transitions. A healthy mind helps prevent heart issues and lifts your whole outlook.
Education and Credentials
Massage Therapists: Training takes anywhere from six months to two years, plus national and certification or licensing exams. Some with intern or externships depending on where you get your training from. To practice, it varies from state to state.
Physical Therapists: They put in
about seven years—bachelor’s degree, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), internships, and licensure.
Occupational Therapists: Bachelor’s degree, then a master’s or doctorate, hands-on fieldwork, and a professional license.
Mental Therapists: Bachelor’s, graduate training in counseling or psychology, supervised practice, and state licensure.
Getting Started with Therapy
So, how do you get rolling? Start by looking for qualified therapists or asking your doctor for a recommendation. For physical and occupational therapy, you’ll usually need a referral. Massage and mental health providers? You can often book directly. Many clinics offer online booking, and virtual sessions are common for mental health. Since insurance coverage can be tricky, check your plan and see if you need a referral before making an appointment.
The Bottom Line Modern therapies are practical ways to boost your health—whether you’re dealing with pain, bouncing back from an injury, or working on your emotional resilience. The real payoff is in the long term: better heart health, lower blood pressure, improved circulation, and less stress. Many people everywhere are teaming up with skilled professionals to take charge of their well-being and build stronger hearts for the future.
In a city known for bright lights and big stages, the Backyard Bump League has carved out its own spotlight — not in a mega-arena, but in a space where culture, competition, and community meet at center court in an intimate and remote event space in Southwest Las Vegas.
Founded by Dame Dacuma, the league has quickly grown from an idea into one of Las Vegas’ most talked-about grassroots basketball experiences. What makes Backyard Bump different isn’t just the talent on the floor — it’s the intentional blend of lifestyle, storytelling, and high-level hoops.
“We wanted to create something that felt authentic,” Dacuma says. “Backyard Bump is about bringing the energy of backyard basketball — the trash talk, the pride, the creativity — into an organized league that still feels raw and real.”
That authenticity has translated into real momentum. In just a two seasons, the league has generated over 1.2 million impressions on Instagram. Crowds have grown to more than 100+ people to watch live. Games are streamed live, highlights circulate across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and the in-person experience draws a mix of hoopers, entrepreneurs, influencers, and community celebs.
But for Dacuma, numbers aren’t the heart of the story.
“This isn’t just about basketball,” he explains. “It’s about ownership. It’s about giving players and brands a platform to build something that represents them. When you step on our court, you’re part of the culture.”
The league runs in 6–8 week seasons, featuring draft days, team spon-
sors, branded jerseys, LED screens, and courtside logo placements that rival professional productions. Sponsors can integrate into everything from “Play of the Week” to MVP honors. Yet even with polished presentation, the core remains deeply community-driven.
“You can feel it when you walk in,” Dacuma says. “The crowd is close. The energy is personal. Every bucket matters. Every moment is content. It’s competitive, but it’s also entertainment.”
That balance between competition and culture is intentional. Players aren’t just roster spots — they’re personalities. Storylines develop throughout the season. Rivalries build. Draft day feels like an event. Teams are owned and sponsored, giving brands a chance to draft players who represent their identity all season long.
“Brands don’t just sponsor us — they become part of the narrative,” Dacuma explains. “When a company owns a team, they’re not just putting their logo somewhere. They’re building a story with us.”
In a city that has recently welcomed major professional franchises, Backyard Bump represents something different: access. It’s close enough to touch. It feels local. It feels earned.
“There’s something special about knowing the person who just hit the game-winner,” Dacuma says. “These are your friends, your coworkers, your neighbors. That connection makes it powerful.”
As the league continues to expand its reach and refine its production, Dacuma’s vision remains clear. Growth matters — but culture comes first.
“We’re building a platform that can scale,” he says. “But we’ll never lose the backyard spirit. That’s the DNA. If it doesn’t feel like community, it’s not Backyard Bump.”
In Las Vegas — a city built on spectacle — the Backyard Bump League is proving that sometimes the most magnetic moments don’t require a massive arena. Sometimes all you need is a court, a crowd, and a founder bold enough to believe that backyard basketball belongs on a bigger stage. For players that want a chance to get drafted please interact with the page, make content, and stay up to date with all things on Instagram @backyardbumpleague
New and enhanced deductions for individuals
There are several new tax deductions that have been introduced for the 2026 filing season. A deduction is an amount subtracted from the taxpayer’s income when filing. Deductions lower the taxable income resulting in lowering the federal income tax obligation.
New deductions for 2026 filing season
Seniors age 65 and older may be eligible to claim an additional $6,000 deduction
Tipped workers may be eligible to deduct up to $25,000 for qualified tips
Individuals may be eligible to deduct up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers) for qualified overtime
Individuals may deduct up to $10,000 in qualified passenger vehicle loan interest
All new or enhanced deductions are available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers. Each of these deductions phase out based on income level for individual and joint filers and have specific eligibility requirements. This information can be found on the One, Big, Beautiful Bill provisions page for individuals and workers.
Standard deduction amounts for tax year 2025
The standard deduction is a flat amount based on federal income tax filing status (single, married filing separately, married filing jointly, head of household, or qualifying surviving spouse). The IRS adjusts the standard deduction annually for inflation.
$15,750 for single or married filing separately
$31,500 for married couples filing jointly or qualifying surviving spouse
$23,625 for head of household
Most people take the standard deduction. However, some may not be eligible to take it or if deductible expenses and losses are more than the standard deduction, taxpayers have the option to itemize deductions. Itemized deductions are subject to certain dollar limitations. They can include amounts paid during the taxable year for: state and local income or sales taxes, real property taxes, personal property taxes, mortgage interest, disaster losses, gifts to charities, certain gambling losses, and medical and dental expenses. Taxpayers are reminded that they need documents to show expenses or losses they want to deduct. Tax software will calculate deductions and enter them in the right forms. Taxpayers who earned less than $89,000 in 2025 can use Free File guided tax software to prepare and electronically file their 2025 federal income tax returns for free. All taxpayers can use Free File Fillable Forms regardless of income level. The IRS Interactive Tax Assistant can help a person decide if they’re eligible for many popular tax credits and deductions.
Dawn Chang opens up about wedding plans, future projects
MANILA, Feb 7 (Mabuhay) -- Actress-dancer and entrepreneur Dawn Chang marked her birthday this year not just with celebration, but with reflection, sharing her priorities on health, love, and plans to build a family of her own.
Now 37, Chang said growing older has made her more intentional about taking care of her body and overall well-being.
“Ma-maintain na lang yung health. Kasi pag tumatanda, nakakaramdam ka na ng sakit ng katawan,” she shared. “Gusto kong mabuhay ng matagal. Marami pa akong gustong gawin, and wish ko pa makapagbigay ng maraming work sa mga staff namin.”
Beyond health and career, Chang also spoke candidly about her love life, confirming that wedding plans are already underway.
“Talagang looking forward na rin to build a family,” she said. “Naniniwala ako na mararamdaman mo lang ‘yun kapag nahanap mo na yung tamang tao, and I would like to believe na nahanap ko naman na siya.”
While she chose to keep specific details private for now, Chang revealed that a wedding date has already been set.
“Malapit na,” she said. “We’re just finalizing everything. May date na actually, but I’ll share it when it’s all finalized para iwas jinx.”
This year’s birthday celebration also reflected her renewed focus on fitness, with pickleball as its central theme. Chang explained that after her time with GirlTrends, her once-active lifestyle slowed down.
“After nun, na-stop yung physical activity ko. Hindi na ako nagpapawis,” she recalled. “Sabi ko, parang hindi tama. Pag tumagal pa ‘to, magsa-suffer yung katawan ko.”
Five months ago, she discovered pickleball and quickly fell in love with the sport.
“Yung community ng pickleball, na-
paka-bait. They’re kind, inclusive, and
nag-e-enjoy ka habang nagpapawis,”
she said. “Pag-uwi mo, masakit yung katawan mo, pero ang sarap ng sakit kasi galing sa workout.”
She added that the sport has helped her feel healthier and sharper, even improving her focus in her food businesses, including Love on Duck and Signal Microgram.
Looking ahead to 2026, Chang teased upcoming showbiz projects that are currently in development.
“Niluluto siya since last year,” she shared. “Inaayos lang yung script. Once may go signal, we’ll share it to everybody. Sana matuloy, sana hindi maudlot.”
When asked about her birthday wish, not just for herself, but for the country, Chang emphasized accountability and integrity.
“Kailangan may accountability tayo, especially sa leaders we choose,” she said. “We cannot keep complaining. Dapat lumabas yung principles and integrity natin sa bawat desisyon, maliit man o malaki. From the food you eat, sa oras ng tulog mo, hanggang sa mga lider na binoboto mo.” (MNS)
BAGUIO CITY: A CHANGING LANDSCAPE HELD TOGETHER BY THE WARMTH OF HOME
Long before Baguio City became synonymous with summer vacations, weekend escapes and mist-covered mornings, it held a special place in the history of American military presence in the Philippines. Camp John Hay- once an exclusive rest and recreation haven for American servicemen- stood as a quiet refuge tucked among towering pine trees. Its cool air, manicured lawns and serene cottages offered a stark contrast to the heat of the lowlands. That same cool climate eventually earned Baguio its enduring title as the Summer Capital of the Philippines. Families from the lowlands would make the winding drive up Naguilian Road or Kennon Road to escape the sweltering heat. Honeymooners also found magic in the city’s fog-kissed mornings, sun-kissed horizon and the romantic hush that settled over the hills at dusk. I remember that as an elementary student visiting the city where my dad used to work at a bank, time seemed to stretch where the scent of pine created a world apart. Walking up and down Session Road was unhurried, and one met familiar faces after everyone paused for the six o’clock Angelus.
BUT CITIES EVOLVE AND BAGUIO IS NO EXCEPTION.
When I visited last month (Christmas decorations were still up at the John Hay Hotels), the Baguio I encountered felt both familiar and surprisingly transformed. The city I called home- once quiet and defined by its natural charm - now pulsed with the unmistakable signs of overpopulation. Streets that used to be open and walkable spaces were choked with congestion. One way traffic systems, meant to ease the flow of vehicles, instead created long snaking lines of cars and jeeps inching their way through major thoroughfares like Harrison Road, Abanao Road, Magsaysay Ave, and Session Road. The air felt heavier, the sidewalks and market area more crowded, and the pace undeniably faster. It was impossible not to
feel a pang of nostalgia. Back then, Baguio City felt like a sanctuary with its quiet, intimate and deeply personal character.
Despite the changes, urban developments, traffic and the crowds, Baguio still felt like home though. And it wasn’t because of the landmarks or the climate or memories etched into the familiar streets. It was because of the people. Family and friends - those who have stayed or returned, and those who continue to shape the city’s spirit - are what truly anchor Baguio’s identity. Their warmth, humor, resilience and generosity create a sense of belonging that no amount of modernization can erase. The city’s people remain its constant source of charm. In conversations over afternoon merienda with old churchmates and in shared meals with relatives, I still felt the same embrace that Baguio has always offered. The relationships built through the years have not lost their glow. They continue to soften the edges of change, reminding me that home is not merely a physical place. It is a network of connections, memories and affections that endure. In the end, what makes a place a home is not its landscape but its heartbeat. And in Baguio, that heartbeat continues to welcome, comfort and embrace. Just as it always has. For a three reminiscent days, it was good to be back home!
Award-winning Author / Journalist Carlos Palanca Awardee & Professional Host/ Emcee
Author website: www.marylaineviernes.com
