Manila Standard - 2025 October 7 - Tuesday

Snap polls call widely rejected

Palace, Comelec, lawmakers: Cayetano proposal wishful thinking, unlawful

By Charles Dantes, Vito Barcelo, Maricel V. Cruz, Ram Superable and Joel E. Zurbano

MALACANANG , the Commission on Elections and the leadership of the House of Representatives and the Senate all dismissed fresh calls for a snap election as nothing more than “wishful thinking” that is not covered by any law.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the administration has no time to entertain political distractions, especially as the government continues to provide aid to areas hit by earthquakes and typhoons.

“It is just his wishful thinking. We do not have time to talk about one’s personal desires,” Castro said in a statement,

‘‘It (mass resignation) can work—but it starts with one. Be that one, Sen. Alan. – Ex-Taguig Mayor Lino Cayetano

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand

1m farmers to get P7k cash aid each in 2026 budget—Dy

“Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. announced yesterday that P26.55 billion from underperforming flood control projects will be channeled to DepEd programs in 2026, including classroom construction, child nutri tion, teacher compensation, and edu cational technology.

The president also cited partner ships with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to boost teachers’ financial literacy through an elearning academy, and programs to recognize exemplary educa tors like Marivic Villacampa of Cavite, who continues teaching despite battling cancer, and Mary Jane Reodica of Laguna, who de veloped livelihood training pro jects for her community.

“Teaching is a partnership,

CBCP rejects bid to change Senate leadership

By Vito Barcelo

By Alena Mae S. Flores

By Pot Chavez

responding to the idea floated by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano who is allied with the minority bloc in the Senate.

“The President is busy working for the nation and helping those affected by disasters. He has no time for this kind of politicking,” she added.

Cayetano earlier offered a proposal to end the current political standoff: “What if we all just resign and allow a snap election, from the President, Vice President, Senate, and Congress?”

“With one important addition, no incumbent from the above can run for one election cycle. National government has its bureaucracy and will continue to run. Governors, mayors, and barangay chairpersons are generally trusted and will be in place,” Cayetano added.

The Comelec also rejected the idea,

According to the latest National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) report released early Monday, Paolo affected 94,744 families or 313,822 individuals across Regions I, II, III, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and CALABARZON.

More than 3,000 people sought refuge in 42 evacuation centers, while over 5,000 others were temporarily sheltered in outside facilities.

Flooding was reported in 134 barangays across Pangasinan, Aurora, Bataan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, and Batangas provinces.

In Pangasinan, several areas, including Dagupan City, Bautista, and Calasiao experienced floodwaters reaching up to four feet. Floods in Bataan’s Mariveles and Bagac barangays were chest-deep, but had subsided by Friday, Oct 3.

In Zambales, dozens of barangays in the towns of San Felipe, Cabangan, and Candelaria reported floods of one to three feet, temporarily isolating residents and disrupting road access.

At least 27 houses were reported damaged, mostly in CAR, CALABARZON, and Central Luzon. A total of 111 roads and 36 bridges were rendered impassable at the height of the typhoon, though most have since reopened.

Electric power was tentatively down in 61 cities and municipalities, primarily in Regions II and CAR, while 17 seaports temporarily halted operations.

“As of this morning, we had 72 fatalities in our list, 559 ang reported injured, no missing persons, OCD officer-in-charge Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV said.

“We are in the early recovery stage, clearing, and of course, repairing damaged facilities,” he added.

The OCD also said 1,251 people or 405 families were staying in evacuation centers while 7,357 families were staying in other places amid the ongoing aftershocks.

As 35, 925 houses were damaged from the earthquake in Region 7, Alejandro said tent cities are being set up for the temporary shelters of the affected residents.

Some damaged houses are undergoing repairs, as assistance worth P94 million has been provided so far to the earthquake victims, he said.

saying it cannot hold snap elections because there is no constitutional or legal framework for such elections.

“The Comelec’s role is to implement laws, and without a clear mandate, we cannot hold snap elections,” Garcia said.

He said snap elections might be possible in cases of mass resignation or other extraordinary circumstances, but a law would still be necessary to guide the process.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III echoed Comelec in saying there is no basis under Philippine laws to call for elections outside the normal schedule.

“We have no constitutional or legal framework for snap elections. We will be flirting with uncertainty and chaos,” Sotto said.

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said accountability and swift punishment for wrongdoing are what truly matter.

“Election, snap or regular, is not the solution. In fact, election campaigns

actually add to more corruption of the electorate by the candidates,” he said.

“For a change, how about the certainty of punishment of corrupt politicians? The higher the better,” Lacson added.

Taguig City mayor and congressman Lino Cayetano, said the senator should take the lead in stepping down.

At the Lower House, the militant Makabayan Bloc branded Cayetano’s snap election challenge as an effort to derail the corruption investigation on ranking government officials.

“This is typical obfuscation of the issue of corruption. Cayetano is trying to divert the focus from corruption accountability to snap elections, giving the illusion that corruption can be addressed simply through the electoral process that is still dominated by political dynasties and corrupt politicians,” the solons said in a joint statement.

“How will snap elections address the issue of accountability? The proposal is a distraction and a way to douse cold water on the people’s protests,” they added.

Cayetano’s own brother, former

“If you (Alan) truly believe what you say, then trust and have faith that if some of the old guards step down now, it will inspire others to follow. I will further support that no Cayetano should run in 2028. All of us. Maybe this is not a gimmick connected to the plan and trouble in the Senate but a sincere idea to answer the wishes and anger of the people,” Lino said.

“With the President’s support and as caretaker of the idea, it can work—but it starts with one. Be that one, Sen. Alan, and you will be remembered by all sides as someone who laid the groundwork for real change.”

“The Senate will function without the Cayetanos, while Taguig has a very capable vice mayor, and the Cayetano political party has had 15 years to run Taguig City and institute reform,” he added.

IN TOWN. A giant Santa Claus decor greets shoppers inside a mall in Quezon City as establishments across the Metro begin putting up festive decorations ahead of the Christmas season. Edd Castro

P26.55b... From A1

between generations, between those who dream and those who make dreams possible,” the president said. “The true measure of a nation’s growth is found in the grit, passion, and dedication of our teachers,” he added.pledged deeper government support for teachers, announcing new incentives, career advancement measures, and reduced administrative burdens as he honored educators during the National Teachers’ Day celebration at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Calling teachers the country’s “true guests of honor,” Marcos lauded their daily sacrifices and enduring influence on the nation’s future.

“Teachers impart far more than just knowledge, you shape lives and mold values,” he said before thousands of educators from across the country. “In your strength, wisdom, and courage, we find the assurance that our future is secure,” the president added.

Mr. Marcos highlighted the government’s ongoing initiatives to improve teachers’ welfare. He cited the recently signed Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which grants a tax-free teaching allowance. Each public school teacher has

already received P10,000 this year to support classroom needs.

To address concerns about heavy workloads, he pointed to DepEd Order No. 005, which mandates compensation for teachers who exceed six hours of daily classroom instruction.

He also announced a P1,000 World Teachers’ Day incentive for every public school teacher as a small but meaningful gesture of appreciation.

The president emphasized efforts to ease bureaucratic burdens, noting that teachers’ paperwork requirements have been cut by 57 percent, from dozens of forms to just five.

“We want you to focus less on bureaucracy and more on what you do best, teaching,” he said.

He also touted reforms to ensure career growth, including the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders Act (RA 12288), which guarantees that no teacher will retire at the entry-level rank.

“We will no longer allow a public school teacher to retire as Teacher I,” he said.

The event, attended by thousands of educators from various regions, capped the nationwide celebration of National Teachers’ Day 2025 and World Teachers’ Day, held annually to honor the contributions of Filipino teachers.

The oil firms initially announced a possible mixed oil price movement this week with diesel prices increasing by as much as P1 per liter and kerosene by around P0.25 per liter.

Gasoline was expected to have a rollback or increase of around P0.10 per liter.

Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas said last week crude oil prices declined due to concerns about a market glut from the prospect of higher OPEC+ production output. He said the diesel market remained strong due to shifting of regional flows to the West to meet the demands from the US and Europe as the ongoing autumn refinery maintenance, peak harvest season demand, and Russia’s partial diesel export ban have raised the risk of supply shortfalls.

He said the weaker peso against the US dollar is also expected to “further push the potential movement of domestic pump prices next week to the upside.”

Bellas said worries that the potential tighter sanctions that could further disrupt Russian crude exports and the stockpiling demand from China could limit the decline in oil prices.

Rodela Romero, director of the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau said several factors affected the movement of prices last week, including the US imposing new sanctions on Iran for its noncompliance to its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal.

Romero said world prices were also affected by concerns about global supply glut as OPEC+ is set to increase its crude production levels.

“Traders are cautious ahead of the OPEC+ October 5 meeting with prices reacting sharply to headlines rather than fundamentals,” she said.

On Sept. 30, 2025, , most oil companies implemented a per liter decrease of P0.20 for gasoline and price increase of P0.90 per liter for diesel and kerosene. Year-to-date total net increase stands at P14.70 per liter for gasoline, P17.05 per liter for diesel and P5.45 per liter for kerosene.

the public the leadership of the Upper House remains stable.

“The Senate is stable, both the majority and the minority. I am very sure that the Senate is stable. Under my leadership, we will make sure that everything will be transparent and accountable,” Sotto said in a press conference yesterday.

Sotto said he was “quite confident” the majority will continue to back him up.

“But as usual, any senator who is elected into the leadership only serves at the pleasure of his colleagues, of his peers. So, let us leave it at that. But as far as I am concerned, as far as I know, I am quite confident that we are stable and that the leadership of the Senate is well in place.”

Sotto, who replaced Senator Francis Escudero as Senate President less than a month ago, said he was not aware where rumors of another coup at the Senate started.

Last week, Senator JV Ejercito disclosed he and four other colleagues considered leaving the majority bloc, but said nobody is moving to replace Sotto. Ejercito said they entertained the thought of “being independent” amid concerns that the Blue Ribbon probe “lost focus” in looking at the possible involvement of senators instead of at members of the House of Representatives.

The CBCP, for its part, called on all public officials to uphold the integrity of ongoing inquiries into the flood control corruption scandal.

The group also stated that the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) must be “empowered to investigate fully and freely, without political interference from any branch of government.”

“We strongly oppose any attempt to preempt or derail the investigation through backroom deals, leadership takeovers, or selective justice. A nation cannot heal when its moral arteries are clogged by corruption and self-interest,” the CBCP said.

“This is a defining moment for public accountability. We urge both Congress and Malacañang to prove that they serve the common good, not partisan power. Let the truth flow freely. Let the ICI do its work — thoroughly, transparently, and without fear or favor.”

T he CBCP urged Filipinos to say “no” to a whitewash, and “yes” to full accountability.

“Only through truth can our nation begin to rebuild trust and ensure that flood control no longer becomes another flood of corruption,” the CBCP said.

conclusions about the government’s Integrity and Corruption Investigation (ICI) initiative, stressing that many of the accusations circulating so far remained unproven.

In a podcast interview, Marcos acknowledged that exposing the multibillion-peso scam, which he first revealed during his State of the Nation Address, could have political repercussions. He added however, that confronting “entrenched corruption is essential to the country’s progress.”

“I think we’re already there. Why would I even start such a thing if it was somehow for political advantage?” the President said.

«The reason I brought it up and made it part of the national discourse was

quite simply because this could not go on,» he stressed.

Marcos described the scale of the anomaly as “shocking,” saying that while corruption has long plagued public projects, adding that the extent of the scheme was unlike anything seen before.

“Nothing will happen to the Philippines if we carry on this way,” he said. “The economy will never grow properly. People are not going to get helped. The schools will not get better. The hospitals will not get better. We will not get anywhere,” the Chief Executive said.

Marcos said he refuses to adopt the mindset of past administrations that accepted corruption as inevitable. “If you resign yourself to that, you will not do anything. And this is what we’ve seen over so many past decades. I didn’t want to be another one,” he said.

He also dismissed the notion that officials involved could escape responsi-

bility by resigning.

“That’s not sufficient,” he said. “There is a great deal of damage that has been caused, not only financial damage or economic damage, but damage to people’s lives,” Marcos noted.

The President cited cases where substandard flood control projects collapsed during heavy rains, killing local residents.

“A lousy flood control project that collapsed during the flood, that killed a family, how can you live with that? I can’t live with it. So, I won’t live with it. We’ll keep pushing,” he said.

The ongoing investigation into the alleged ghost projects, which are believed to have diverted billions of pesos in public funds, remains a crucial test of President Marcos’ promise to deliver real accountability and systemic reform.

“This is a process. Much of what we’ve heard are allegations,” Marcos said in a recent episode of his official

podcast, as he addressed criticisms that the ICI was being unfairly judged before completing its work.

The President emphasized that while corruption must be pursued, cases should only move forward once investigators have gathered enough evidence to stand up in court.

Filing premature or poorly built cases, he warned, risks weakening the government’s anti-corruption campaign.

“We don’t want to go after people who are innocent,” he said. “We know many of them are not, but if you’re going to bring them to court, you must have a very strong case.”

He cautioned that haste could lead to acquittals which would undermine public trust. If we rush and our evidence is incomplete or unclear, and we still insist on filing the case, and then we lose, that would be much, much worse,” he

A total of 17 applicants were interviewed for the Ombudsman post, which was vacated by former Ombudsman Samuel Martires on July 27, 2025.

Under the 1987 Constitution, the Ombudsman studies the laws, procedures, and practices in government; ensures that the steady flow of services is accorded to citizens; and serves as a watchdog who monitors the general and specific performance of all government officials and employees. The Ombudsman has a fixed term of seven years and may only be removed from office through impeachment. The appointments of the Ombudsman and its deputies do not require congressional confirmation.

pointed out.

The ICI was set in motion to investigate purported misuse of public funds and irregularities in government projects. Critics, however, have accused the ICI of being politically motivated, a claim the Marcos administration persistently denied. The ICI was tasked to look into the alleged misuse of public funds and irregularities in government projects. It is chaired by former Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr., with former Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson and SGV & Co. country managing partner Rossana Fajardo serving as members.

Retired Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. serves as the commission’s special adviser and lead investigator vice Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong who stepped down over issues of conflict of interest.

Dy announces P7k cash aid for farmers

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Faustino

Dy III on Monday announced that one million rice farmers will each receive ₱7,000 in direct cash assistance under the 2026 national budget as part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s expanded support for the agriculture sector.

Speaking at the joint hearing of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food chaired by Quezon 1st District Rep. Mark Enverga and the Committee on Ways and Means chaired by Marikina City 2nd District Rep. Miro Quimbo, Dy said the assistance will help farmers recover from income losses caused by the drop in palay prices.

“I assure you help is underway. One million farmers will receive seven thousand pesos (₱7,000) cash aid each to alleviate their losses caused by the low price of rice,” said Dy. He said the program aligns with Executive Order No. 93, which temporarily suspends rice importation to protect local producers from oversupply and low prices. According to the Speaker, the distribution of cash aid shows President Marcos’ determination to immediately address farmers’ hardships while introducing long-term reforms.

“We also appealed to the President that all types of subsidies from the Department of Agriculture, such as seed subsidy, be given in cash so that our farmers can benefit more easily and directly,” Dy added.

Dy, who has long championed the welfare of farmers, said many growers in Isabela sell palay for as low as ₱8 per kilo—far below the ₱16 to ₱18 needed to recover production costs. He underscored the importance of long-term reforms through the proposed Rice Industry and Consumer Empowerment (RICE) Act, which seeks to strengthen the National Food Authority (NFA) by restoring its power to buy palay during harvest, raising rice import tariffs to 35 percent, and setting a ₱25-per-kilo floor price.

UP, OpenLearning to offer 21 online courses starting Dec.

THE University of the Philippines (UP) Manila will initially offer 21 online courses across various disciplines beginning in December this year through the leading Australian online learning platform OpenLearning.

The short, self-paced courses will be accessible through modules available on OpenLearning, an AIpowered platform for short courses, microcredentials, and online degrees operated by the Education Centre of Australia (ECA).

Students must pass the examinations to receive a certificate and a digital badge that can be uploaded to their professional profiles. Enrollment begins this month. Initially open to UP students and alumni, the courses will later be offered to the public.

The list of short courses includes Gender Sensitivity Training, Artificial Intelligence for Medical Educators, Medical Informatics, Clinical Ethics, Public Health Topics, Leadership in Advanced Nursing, and Forensic Science: The Basics, among others.

Villar to appear before ICI probe on infra projects

SENATOR Mark Villar has confirmed his attendance at the continuing investigation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), an official said Monday.

ICI spokesperson Brian Hosaka said aside from Villar, contractor couple Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya and Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya are also scheduled to appear before the body.

“The hearings will be on Tuesday and Wednesday. The ICI continues to organize and address administrative matters together with its continued work on case buildup and evidence review,” Hosaka said in a message to the media.

Last Thursday, the ICI formally requested Villar to appear before the body. ICI Chair Andres Reyes Jr. said Villar would “testify under oath to

discuss and shed light relative to the planning, budgeting, execution, supervision, and monitoring of flood control and other infrastructure projects” during his time as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) from 2016 to 2021. Villar has earlier denied wielding his influence as DPWH secretary in awarding ₱18.5 billion in contracts to a firm owned by his cousin.

Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasizes integrity and moral discipline as the AFP marks the 35th anniversary of its Code of Conduct and unveils the logo for its 90th founding anniversary.

‘AFP’s strength anchored on integrity’

By Rex Espiritu

ARMED Forces of the Philippines

(AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. underscored the importance of integrity and moral discipline within the military ranks as the AFP marked two major milestones—the 35th anniversary of the AFP Code of Conduct and the launch of the logo for its upcoming 90th founding anniversary.

In his speech during the ceremony on Monday, Brawner said the twin celebrations highlight not only the Armed Forces’ proud legacy but also its continuing commitment to service and professionalism.

“The logo we unveiled today is the story of our nine decades as an Armed Forces,” he said. “It honors the men and women who sacrificed

their lives in the past and serves as a promise that we will remain steadfast in defending our Republic, modernizing our force, and transforming to meet the challenges of our times.”

The new logo carries the theme “Strong Armed Forces, Pillar of the New Philippines.” Brawner traced the military’s heritage back to the country’s early struggles for independence, citing heroes such as Lapu-Lapu, Diego and Gabriela Silang, and generations of soldiers who fought for the nation’s freedom.

He stressed that true strength goes beyond military power.

“Strength without integrity is hollow,” he said, emphasizing that the AFP Code of Conduct has served as the institution’s moral compass for

IN BRIEF

Police see drugs flood Bacolod MassKara Festival

AUTHORITIES have raised alarms over a surge in illegal drug operations in Bacolod City amid the ongoing MassKara Festival.

Police earlier said they have seized nearly ₱3 million worth of suspected shabu in a series of buy-bust operations from September 30 to October 3 across several barangays.

Lt. Col. Antonio Benitez of the Bacolod City Drug Enforcement Unit said the operations involved six highvalue individuals and an 18-year-old woman. He noted that this year’s drug haul has already surpassed last year’s totals.

Benitez assured residents and visitors that police are closely monitoring known drug personalities as the festival, which runs until October 19, draws larger crowds. Citizens’ group Bantay Masid also urged communities, schools, and churches to help prevent drug-related activities during the festivities. Edwin Ombion

DMW says 25 OFWs on death row worldwide

AT LEAST 25 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are on death row in various countries, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac disclosed the figure during a budget review for 2026, noting that 116 OFWs have been convicted abroad.

Cacdac said the number of Filipinos on death row has dropped significantly, especially in Malaysia, following its more lenient commutation policy.

The DMW continues to coordinate with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Philippine embassies to assist OFWs facing capital punishment. Vito Barcelo

Fourteen ex-rebels trade firearms for livelihood aid

FOURTEEN former rebels in South Cotabato have surrendered their firearms in exchange for livelihood assistance worth up to ₱29,000 each, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported.

The aid was distributed during the Friends Rescued and Former Violent Extremists Summit in Koronadal City.

The initiative, led by DOLE Region XII in partnership with the Philippine Army’s 38th Infantry Brigade, aims to support ex-rebels’ reintegration through starter kits and training.

Beneficiaries said the program gave them hope and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Army officials thanked DOLE for extending its programs to former rebels, while the agency said the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of inclusive community development and peace. Vito Barcelo

OCTOBER 7, 2025

IN BRIEF

Las Piñas gov’t rolls out pet microchipping

THE Las Piñas City government on Sunday launched its pet microchipping program to foster responsible pet ownership and attain a rabies-free environment.

This initiative not only helps identifify of lost pets but also guarantees that they are vaccinated and registered. Through this initiative, the city seeks to improve public safety and promote community engagement in animal welfare.

At the launch event organized by the City Veterinary Services Office, under the leadership of Dr. August Michael Basangan, 60 pet owners registered their dogs and cats for microchipping.

The first pets to receive microchips were deemed cherished animals of Mayor April Aguilar, symbolizing her confidence in the program and her commitment to animal welfare and public health. Joel E. Zurbano

Customs boosts OCD relief missions in Cebu

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has donated more than 100 sacks of rice, 56 pieces of emergency tents, 1,087 pieces of assorted tents and 50 units of mobile power generators to earthquake affected areas in Cebu.

The donations which came mostly from the Manila International Container Port (MICP), included biotoilets to ensure proper sanitation for displaced residents.

The donated items were previously declared abandoned and forfeited in favor of the government.

In line with Customs protocols,, the relief goods officially released and turned over to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to support its overall relief and recovery efforts. Vito Barcelo

PCUP, NYC tie-up to help urban youth

THE Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) has joined hands with the National Youth Commission (NYC) in a bid to empower impoverished urban youth across the country.

The joint undertaking was formalized through a memorandum of agreement inked by NYC Undersecretary Joseph Francisco Ortega and PCUP chairperson and executive officer Michelle Ann Gonzales in a ceremony held in Quezon City last Oct. 1.

In her remarks, Gonzales underscored the need to strengthen programs for the marginalized youth and create pathways for their active participation in nation-building.

Gonzales also shared her insights about the ALPAS Komunidad Flagship Project, a community-based development and social protection initiative aimed at improving the lives of the urban poor, particularly the youth sector, through a whole-of-nation approach. Rio N. Araja

MGB to name flood-prone areas

By Rio N. Araja

THE Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) , an attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), has deployed an eight-member team of geologists to identify flood-prone areas, rain-induced landslides, ground subsidence, and sinkhole formation.

DENR Assistant Secretary Michael Cabalda said the assessment involves ground validation and geohazards data analysis.

“This study will enable us to pinpoint areas susceptible to flooding, rain-induced landslides, and those areas with high potential for ground subsidence and provide technical recommendations to LGUs (local government units) for proper zoning, building regulation, and emergency preparedness,” he said.

Army dismantles two NPA platoons operating in Caraga

By Rex Espiritu

TROOPS of the Army’s 901st Infantry Brigade have dismantled most of the remaining communist rebel units operating in the Caraga Region following a series of clashes and surrenders in recent months.

According to the Army, two of the New People’s Army’s three remaining platoons under the Sub-Regional Sentro de Gravidad (SRSDG) Westland — identified as Platun Uno and Platun Dos — have been

were tactically neutralized amid sustained anti=insurgency operations by the brigade’s units, including the 29th, 30th, 36th, 48th, and 65th Infantry Battalions.

The Army reported that Platun Uno was neutralized following successive encounters in Placer, Surigao del Norte, and Anticala, Butuan City, between June and July.

Eighteen of its members were neutralized — four were killed in clashes, including SRSDG Westland commander Roderick Maco alias “Rodel,” while 14 others

By Rex Espiritu

through 0926-327-6397.

“We encourage the public to coordinate with the Local Government Units affected or directly coordinate with the Incident Management Team/Incident Command Post located at the Bogo City Central Terminal,” the OCD said in a statement.

“We encourage the public to lessen the distribution in major thoroughfares to avoid traffic congestion or accidents.”

Erestain expressed gratitude to donors for their support and generosity, but reiterated the need for better coordination to ensure that relief efforts are systematic and reach all affected areas.

surrendered, among them Ricky Per alias “Rem,” the platoon’s vice commander. The final two members yielded to the 29th Infantry Battalion on Oct. 2, turning over seven high-powered firearms.

Meanwhile, Platun Dos reportedly suffered heavy losses after an encounter with the 36th Infantry Battalion on June 25 in Sitio Libas, Barangay Sibahay, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur. Its commander, Edmar Maca alias “Renren,” surrendered on August 22 and helped convince five more members to turn themselves in by October 3. Since June, the Army said 26 members of SRSDG Westland have been neutralized through armed engagements and voluntary surrender. Only three small rebel groups remain in the boundaries of Sibagat, Agusan del Sur, and San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, the report stated. Col. Manuel Darius Resuello, acting commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, said operations continued against the remaining elements led by Emmie Mar Merza

NCAP apprehensions subject to review, verification—MMDA

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) assured the public that all traffic violators apprehended under the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) are subject to a thorough manual review and verification process to ensure accuracy and fairness.

This assurance followed the agency’s approval of an appeal made by a motorist cited under the NCAP for allegedly violating the number coding scheme last September. The complainant, identified only as Mr. Escano, contested his traffic violation citation through the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Division online filing platform. The motorist insisted that his car was registered as an electric vehicle

and is exempt from the number coding scheme in accordance with Republic Act 11697, also known as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA Law).

MMDA chairman Romando Artes approved the appealed traffic violation and apologized to Escano.

Of the 40,000 who were caught and given citation tickets, the agency maintained that this was only an isolated case. “Although the system is not perfect, it does not negate the success and purpose of the program,” said Artes. The MMDA chief stated that Escano’s case demonstrated the effectiveness and efficiency of the contest mechanism of the Traffic Adjudication Division.

“It also shows the agency’s openness to correcting errors and deficiencies in the system,” he said.

OPINION

Balesin: Alive and kicking as ever

AFTER the death two and a half years ago of Roberto V. Ongpin, RVO to a lot of people, or just Bobby to others like me, no new projects by the debt-free Alphaland Corporation have been written about.

For the record, the developments of Alphaland Corporation, developer of highend properties, are alive and kicking as ever, though the development of another island, Patnanungan Island, not far from Balesin Island, has been put on hold, but the corporation is now concentrating on the promotion of its recently launched Balesin Key.

Balesin Key is an exclusive membership offering that redefines luxury living. It provides members access to three Alphaland Corp.-developed destinations: the Balesin Island in Quezon, the Balesin Pines in Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges, and Balesin City (formerly City Club) in Makati City.

The corporation has a press release that emphasizes the exclusivity and prestige of Bobby Ongpin’s vision for the corporation. Here is what Balesin Key has to offer for the months of October to December 2025.

Balesin Tastemakers

Alphaland’s Balesin Key announces the inaugural Balesin Tastemakers, a three-day culinary series that brings distinguished chefs to two of Balesin Key’s prestigious destinations, Balesin Island and Balesin Pines.

Conceived as a specially curated program running from October to December 2025, the series reinforces Balesin’s reputation for exclusivity, prestige, and destination dining at the very top tier.

“Balesin Tastemakers began with a clear purpose: to bring the country’s most dynamic chiefs into settings that elevate their craft and reward our members’ time,” shares Mr. Alain Borgers, Executive Vice President for Hospitality of Alphaland.

He adds,”Balesin Tastemakers is a deliberate step for us. Both Balesin Island and Balesin Pines can stand on their own, and the unique experience from each location is best expressed through the menus our guest chefs create in the venue. We are presenting three distinct evenings, each shaped by its location, its ingredients, and our service standards.”

Chef Josh Boutwood, Toscana Village, Balesin Island, Nov. 15, 2025:

Chef Josh closes out the series with the theater and rigor that define his restaurant, Helm. helm features in 50 Best Discovery, reflecting its international profile. Boutwood was also honoured by La Liste as a Young Talent of the Year

(2021), a citation that spotlighted his Manila portfolio, including The Test Kitchen and Helm.

In 2024, Tatler Dining recognized Helm with the Best Interior Design Award, affirming the restaurants’s immersive design and meticulous craft.

Chef Jorge Mendez, Toscana Village, Balesin Island, Dec. 6, 2025:

Chef Jorge of MoDAN brings the precision and imagination that have defined his rise in Manila’s dining scene to Balesin Island. MoDAN was named Best New Restaurant at the Tatler Dining SAwards 2023, and Mendez received the Rising Star honor in the same year.

Toscana Village evokes Tuscany through arched doorways, terracotta accents, textured stone, and warm wood, a refining backdrop for intimate tasting menus

He was later recognized as Chef of the Year 2024 by SPOT.ph, underscoring the momentum behind his progressive tasting menus

The setting is central to the experience. Balesin island is a 500-hectare private paradise about 60 nautical miles east of Manila, reachable by chartered flights in roughly 30 minutes, with dedicated lounges and terminals for seamless access.

Within the island, Toscana Village evokes Tuscany through arched doorways, terracotta accents, textured stone, and warm wood, a refining backdrop for intimate tasting menus.

In October, Balesin Pines sets the scene at approximately 1,400 meters above sea level near Baguio, with suites, dining, and two helipads integrated into the landscape for convenient access.

“Balesin Tastemakers reflects what our members value most: rare access, thoughtful craftsmanship, and experiences that feel intimate from arrival to nightcap,” said Mr. Borgers.

“Each dinner is designed as a complete journey guided by sheds at the top of their field.”

I am sure we will be hearing more news about Balesin in the coming months.

Coup whispers and a nation teetering

A Ghost Stalks Malacañang

IN MANILA’S sweltering corridors, the ghost of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. prowls, whispering of juntas and betrayal.

General Romeo Brawner, the Armed Forces chief, has just exposed a chilling plot: retired officers scheming to topple President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Brawner stood firm, swearing loyalty to the Constitution. But in a nation haunted by martial law and mutinies, his defiance feels like a fleeting reprieve in a thriller where the next twist looms.

The Philippines, drowning in floodwaters and fury, isn’t just fighting corruption—it’s battling its own history. Can it escape the abyss?

The Plot Unraveled: A Conspiracy in Manila’s Shadows Sept. 21, 2025. Manila’s streets pulse with 130,000 protesters, their signs screaming “Trillion Peso March” and “No More Nepo Babies.”

The spark? A 545-billion-peso scandal—bogus flood-control projects that left slums submerged while cronies cashed in.

The Marcos administration’s “Golden Age of Infrastructure” is unmasked as a gilded fraud, built on phantom dams and falsified reports.

This is the kindling for rebellion, the rot that drove retired generals like Romeo Poquiz to whisper coup.

The Why: Theft That Fuels the Fire

The scandal isn’t just numbers; it’s a betrayal of the desperate.

Floodwaters swallow homes, yet 545 billion pesos meant to save them vanished into elite pockets.

Protesters, from Gen Z to Greenpeace, rage against a system that robs the

drowning.

Marcos’ polished promises crumble under the weight of dynastic greed—a name reborn, but not redeemed. The Puppeteers: Patriots or Power-Hungry Phantoms?

Who are these plotters?

Ex-General Poquiz, a vocal Marcos critic, leads a cabal of retired officers— some driven by fury, others by grudges or ambition.

They peddle a “reset,” a junta to cleanse the nation, whispering to young officers of a vague “somebody else” who deserves power.

Is it Sara Duterte, the Vice President, lurking like a chess queen?

The Philippines teeters, praying democracy outruns its demons

An oligarch craving the throne? Their rhetoric echoes 1986, when the military ousted Marcos Sr., only to unleash a decade of bloody coups. These aren’t saviors; they’re gamblers betting on chaos.

Brawner’s Gambit: Principle or Pragmatism?

Brawner’s refusal is a high-stakes wager.

He calls the military “solid,” a bulwark for the Constitution, and briefed Marcos on the plot—transparency or self-preservation?

Is it loyalty, or a bet on the devil he knows?

Haunted too soon by hallows

HALLOWEEN does not arrive until the last week of October, but the hallows have marched in earlier, clobbering the masses and drowning them, mainly under floodwaters not addressed by fully funded projects.

Others, like public school students, had to stay under trees during the monsoon because the rooftops of their school had been ripped off and blown away while others in the countryside could not attend classes because of damaged bridges.

In the urban centers, many of the students’ purchased laptops remain missing because the Machiavellian Harry Houdini stalked them once upon a credulous time.

And the eye-piercing list has included additional pages.

Such projects, thanks perhaps to recent severe storms, the ghosts were quickly discovered with their pants down which exposed the morally degenerate and the ravenously greedy wearing different sham coats.

Forthwith, the execrated ghosts started reeking from different government agencies – the Departments of Education, Public Works and Highways, Health, Budget and Management, the Commission on Audit, Agriculture – the two houses of Congress where devious insertions were made by

The 1986 People Power revolt birthed seven coup attempts that nearly shattered democracy under Corazon Aquino.

Brawner’s choice dodges that bullet, but the gun stays loaded.

The Fallout: Who Wins, Who Bleeds?

The Coup That Triumphs: Vultures Circle

Imagine Marcos falls.

Who feasts?

Sara Duterte could ascend, tilting the nation toward China and away from its US alliance. Opposition coalitions—Pinklawan, leftists, anti-dynasty crusaders—might cheer, but only until new predators emerge.

Contractors, sidelined by Marcos’ cronies, would swarm for deals.

Foreign powers, with whispers of CIA meddling, might nudge proxies.

The real victors? Plotters like Poquiz, reborn as kingmakers in a “temporary” junta.

wily hands covered by barong Tagalog or chic coats, with their hitherto undetected private sector accomplices wearing safety-focused work wear.

The people’s anger cannot be muffled for much longer

If the arrival of the hallows symbolized a pleasant afterlife for many – the 117 million population from Tawi Tawi to Batanes-- it might have raised a pleasant feeling for those who feel they have lost their future.

We heard President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underline the need to establish solid cases against those involved in aberrant flood control projects, stressing that pursuing weak charges could backfire and undermine government efforts for accountability.

“We know many of these people are not innocent, but if you’re going to bring them to court, you must have a

The Government’s Desperate Counterstrike Marcos would play whack-a-mole: reassign officers, audit loyalties, prosecute plotters. Investigations might accelerate, cronies sacked, assets frozen—but every move risks smelling like repression. Crackdowns could ignite the unrest they aim to smother, with arrests and “disinformation” purges painting Marcos as the tyrant protesters despise. The 1986 revolt was a beacon; today’s tear gas betrays it. The Human Toll: The Poor Pay First Who suffers most? The poor. Capital flight and investor panic would gut jobs, schools, hospitals. The 545 billion pesos stolen from flood defenses become a death sentence for the vulnerable.

Gen Z’s cry of “No More Nepo Babies” rails against dynastic theft, but chaos could drown their hopes, leaving

very strong case,” he said. He warned rushing cases with incomplete or weak evidence could result in dismissals that would embolden violators and damage the credibility of the government’s anti-corruption drive, reiterating all government actions must remain within the bounds of the law.

“We have to follow the law. Otherwise, whatever we do is not legitimate. And we have to be very, very clear that we go after the guilty ones.”

On Sept. 11, President Marcos created the Independent Commission for Infrastructure which is currently investigating suspected anomalous DPWH projects in different parts of the country.

This came 45 days after President Marcos called out those behind irregularities in flood control projects with his new classic in Filipino: “Mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Pilipino.” Unknown then by a trusting public was some of those who gave the President a standing ovation would be accused later during the public hearings of making budget insertions in bold billions of pesos. The people’s anger cannot be muffled for much longer. They want those accountable punished by law, while having their eyes focused on the destruction of political dynasties and the mistitled party-list political parties.

only empty stomachs.

A Nation One Spark from Collapse Brawner’s stand bars the coup door, but the house burns. The 545-billion-peso scandal is a symptom of a rotting democracy.

The Marcos-Duterte feud, fueled by AI-driven smears, stokes polarization. Protests swell, with Oct. 10 walkouts looming.

The military’s loyalty is a brittle shield against public rage. If courts or Congress can’t purge the corruption—swiftly, transparently—the next whisper of a “reset” will find eager ears. Brawner’s defiance is no cure; it’s a pause.

The ghost of 1986 warns: power seized by force rarely births justice. If Marcos fails to deliver accountability, who will answer the next call to rebellion?

The Philippines teeters, praying democracy outruns its demons.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

UN rights council to decide on creating probe in Afghanistan

GENEVA – The UN Human Rights Council is set to decide on Monday whether to set up an investigation to gather evidence on the most serious violations of international law in Afghanistan.

A draft resolution, put forward by Denmark on behalf of the European Union, will be discussed at the Genevabased council.

The mandate of the UN special rapporteur on Afghanistan -- an independent expert commissioned to report their findings to the council -- is up for annual renewal on Monday.

“This year, after careful and extensive consultations, the EU decided to table a resolution with a strengthened accountability element, notably proposing an independent investigative mechanism for Afghanistan,” an EU spokesperson told AFP.

“The proposed mechanism will address the decades of impunity in Afghanistan.”

Highlighting the deterioration of the human rights situation in Afghanistan, the draft resolution calls for the establishment of an ongoing independent investigation “to collect, consolidate, preserve and analyze evidence of international crimes and the most serious violations of international law.”

Its scope notably includes violations and abuses against women and girls.

It would also prepare files to facilitate independent criminal proceedings.

“The mechanism will be able to preserve testimonies and stories of victims,” the EU spokesperson said. AFP

IN BRIEF

16

SYDNEY – A 60-year-old man was in custody in Australia Monday after police said he shot up to 50 bullets into a busy Sydney street, wounding more than a dozen people. Police were called on Sunday evening to the city’s Inner West, where the alleged gunman was firing from his property at random at passing cars and police.

A large contingent of police swarmed the area and locked down the street, before entering the property above a business and arresting the man. They seized a rifle from the scene.

Office worker Joe Azar said he was working across the road when he heard what he thought were fireworks or rocks being thrown at the windows.

“Some guy’s windshield blew up, then the bus stop glass shattered,” Azar told The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.

“The surreal feeling kicked in like, ‘Oh, this is what’s happening’,” he said.

“It was frantic. It all happened so quick, so I couldn’t comprehend what was going on,” he added.

Police had initially said up to a hundred bullets were fired and 20 people were wounded. AFP

destroyer built to ‘punish provocations’

SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited one of the country’s warships, saying the 5,000-ton destroyer should “punish the enemy’s provocations,” state media reported Monday.

The Choe Hyon is one of two 5,000ton destroyers in the North’s arsenal, both launched this year as Kim seeks to ramp up the country’s naval capabilities.

The warship “is a clear demonstration of the development of... (North Korea’s) armed forces,” Kim said during his visit on Sunday, according to state news agency KCNA.

“The tremendous ability of our navy should be exercised in the vast ocean to thoroughly deter or counter and punish the enemy’s provocations for the sovereignty of the state,” he added.

Kim has vowed to build a third destroyer of a similar class by October next year. AFP

Trump brands US cities war zones

CHICAGO – The Trump administration branded Chicago a “war zone” Sunday as a justification for deploying soldiers against the will of local Democratic officials, while a judge blocked the White House from sending troops to another Democrat-run city.

An escalating political crisis across the country pits President Donald Trump’s anti-crime and migration crackdown against opposition Democrats who accuse him of an authoritarian power grab.

In the newest flashpoint, Trump late Saturday authorized deployment of 300 National Guard soldiers to Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, despite the opposition of elected leaders

including the mayor and state Governor JB Pritzker.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the move on Sunday, claiming on Fox News that Chicago is “a war zone.”

But Pritzker, speaking on CNN’s “State of the Union” show, accused Republicans of aiming to sow “mayhem on the ground. They want to create the war zone, so that they can send in even more

troops.” In a statement, the governor called the proposed deployment “Trump’s invasion,” saying “there is no reason” to send troops into Illinois or any other state without the “knowledge, consent, or cooperation” of local officials.

A CBS poll released Sunday found that 58 percent of Americans oppose deploying the National Guard to cities.

Trump -- who last Tuesday spoke of using the military for a “war from within” -- shows no sign of backing off his hardline campaign.

On Sunday, he claimed falsely that “Portland is burning to the ground. It’s insurrectionists all over the place.”

Key ally Mike Johnson, the Republican speaker of the House of Repre-

accuse him of an authoritarian power grab. AFP

US Supreme Court weighing

WASHINGTON, DC – Donald Trump’s unprecedented expansion of the powers of the US presidency will be put to the test when the Supreme Court returns for its fall term on Monday (Tuesday Manila time).

“The crucial question will be whether it serves as a check on President Trump or just a rubber stamp approving his actions,” said Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the University of California Berkeley Law School.

If past is prologue, the Republican leader is in line to notch up more legal victo-

presidential powers

ries from a conservative-dominated bench that includes three of his own appointees.

On the docket are voting rights, state bans on the participation of transgender athletes in girls’ sports and a religious freedom case involving a Rastafarian who had his knee-length dreadlocks forcibly shorn while in prison.

But the blockbuster case this term concerns Trump’s levying of hundreds of billions of dollars in tariffs on imports and whether he had the statutory authority to do so.

Lower courts have ruled he did not.

Gisele Pelicot back in French court for appeal trial ‘ordeal’

NIMES, France – Frenchwoman Gisele Pelicot, whose ex-husband recruited dozens of strangers online to sexually assault and rape her while drugged, returns to court on Monday for an appeal trial triggered by the bid of one man to overturn his conviction.

Fifty-one men, including her former husband Dominique Pelicot, were convicted at the nearly four-month initial trial that ended in December and turned Gisele Pelicot into a global icon.

Gisele Pelicot, 72, waived her right to anonymity and her dignified and quietly defiant conduct throughout the trial made her a feminist hero and a symbol of the fight of women against male sexual violence.

Only one of the men, Husamettin Dogan, has maintained an appeal against his conviction, meaning the new trial must go ahead.

It will start at 2:00 pm on Monday in the southern city of Nimes, and is expected to last a maximum of four days.

Dominique Pelicot will be brought from prison, where he remains in solitary confinement, for cross-examination on Tuesday.

Gisele Pelicot is due to speak on Wednesday.

One of her lawyers said Gisele Pelicot would have been happy to forgo “this ordeal” but was not afraid of being thrust into the spotlight again.

“She understands the attention given to her case, which, beyond her own person, has universal significance,” Antoine Camus told AFP.

“It challenges us all to think about gender relations and men’s relationship with their sexuality.” AFP

But the Supreme Court has overwhelmingly sided with Trump since he returned to office, allowing, for example, mass firing of federal workers, the dismissal of members of independent agencies, the withholding of funds appropriated by Congress and racial profiling in his sweeping immigration crackdown.

“You’ve seen the court go out of its way, really bend over backwards, in order to green-light Trump administration positions,” said Cecillia Wang, national legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). AFP

sentatives, echoed the president’s rhetoric Sunday, telling NBC that National Guard troops deployed in the US capital Washington had responded to a “literal war zone” -- a characterization at odds with reality.

Trump’s campaign to use the military on home soil hit a roadblock late Saturday in Portland, Oregon, when a court ruled the deployment was unlawful.

Trump has repeatedly called Portland “war-ravaged,” but US District Judge Karin Immergut issued a temporary block, saying “the president’s determination was simply untethered to the facts.”

“This is a nation of Constitutional law, not martial law,” Immergut wrote in her ruling. AFP

gov’t shutdown may last weeks, analysts warn

WASHINGTON, DC

ism that drove the United States into a government shutdown is putting compromise out of reach, analysts say -- and threatening to turn a staring contest between the Democrats and Donald Trump’s Republicans into a protracted crisis. As the nation enters its second week with federal agencies paralyzed, multiple strategists with vivid memories of previous standoffs told AFP the president and his foes could be in it for the long haul.

“It’s possible this shutdown drags on for weeks, not just days,” said Andrew Koneschusky, a former press secretary for Senator Chuck Schumer, the Democratic leader at the center of the latest deadlock.

“Right now, both sides are dug in and there’s very little talk of compromise.” At the heart of the showdown is a Democratic demand for an extension of health care subsidies that are due to expire -meaning sharply increased costs for millions of low-income Americans.

On Sunday, Trump blamed minority Democrats for blocking his funding resolution, which needs a handful of their votes.

“They’re causing it. We’re ready to go back,” Trump told reporters at the White House, sounding resigned to a shutdown dragging on.

Trump also told reporters Sunday his administration has already started to permanently fire -- not merely furlough -federal workers, again blaming his rivals for “causing the loss of a lot of jobs.”

In March, when the threat of a shutdown last loomed, Democrats blinked first, voting for a six-month Republican resolution to keep the coffers stacked despite policy misgivings.

But Schumer -- the top Senate Democrat -- was lambasted by the party’s base, and will be reluctant to cave this time around as he faces potential primary challenges from the left.

For now, Senate Republicans are banking on their Democratic opponents giving in as they repeatedly force votes. AFP Tourist in Japan injured in bear attack

due in Egypt for ceasefire talks

CAIRO – Delegations from Hamas, Israel and the United States are due to convene in Egypt for talks on Monday, with President Donald Trump urging negotiators to “move fast” to end the nearly two-year war in Gaza.

Both Hamas and Israel have responded positively to Trump’s proposal for an end to the fighting and the release of captives in Gaza in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli jails. The indirect talks were due to begin on the eve of Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which sparked the war.

Trump’s plan envisages the disarmament of Hamas, which the militant group is unlikely to accept, as well as the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.

Previous rounds of negotiations have also stalled over the names of Palestinian prisoners the Islamist group proposed for release.

Hamas’s lead negotiator Khalil alHayya, who was targeted with other leaders from the group in Israeli strikes in Doha last month, was to meet with mediators from Egypt and Qatar in Cairo Monday morning, a senior official from the group told AFP, ahead of talks in the Egyptian resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh.

Negotiations will look to “determine the date of a temporary truce”, the official said, as well as create conditions for a first phase of the plan, in which 47 hostages held in Gaza are to be released in return for hundreds of Palestinian detainees. AFO

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Star imports, top rookies headline PVL Reinforced Conference

De los Santos shatters world record in IWF Worlds debut

By Peter Atencio

INETEEN-YEAR-OLD

NAlbert de los Santos of the Philippines made a stunning breakthrough after shattering a world record en route to ruling Group B of the men’s 71kg division at the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Championships in Forde, Norway.

IN WHAT promises to be a rivet-

ing showdown among teams of nearequal strength bolstered by imposing reinforcements, a strong start is paramount.

Expect fireworks right from the first serve as the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference unveils today (Tuesday) at the Ynares Center in Montalban, Rizal.

Taking center stage to showcase their revamped rosters, ZUS Coffee and Akari seek to kick off their campaigns with a bang in a 4 p.m. Pool B clash between squads seeking not only a hot start but redemption after underwhelming performances in the PVL On Tour and the Invitational Conference.

The Thunderbelles finished seventh in On Tour and last in the Invitationals after stepping in at the last minute to replace Farm Fresh.

The Chargers, meanwhile, placed eighth in On Tour.

This makes their opener a compelling match-up, especially with ZUS Coffee’s new weapon –American import Anna DeBeer, a 5-foot-11 outside hitter from the University of Louisville who recently saw action for the Indy Ignite in the Major Volleyball League.

DeBeer made an immediate impact in her first pro stint, tallying 172 points built on 148 attacks, 17 blocks and seven aces, while also recording 110 digs on defense.

Adding to the Thunderbelles’ firepower is Thea Gagate, who returns to the roster after suiting up for Alas Pilipinas. With her back in the fold, ZUS Coffee eyes not just a win over the Chargers but a strong run in the group, which also includes Chery Tiggo, Creamline, Galeries Tower and Petro Gazz.

Coached by Julius Naranjo, the Zamboang a-born lifter—who previously bagged youth and junior world titles at lighter weight classes—hoisted 185kg in the clean and jerk, sparking a rousing celebration in his first appearance at a senior-level competition.

With lifts of 137kg in the snatch and 185kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 322kg, De los Santos finished eighth overall in the senior rankings. His snatch attempt was 12 kilos short of the junior world record, while his total was six kilos behind the junior world standard.

In the battle for medals, Wichuma Weerapon of Thailand emerged on top with four solid lifts of 152kg194kg-346kg for the gold. Masanori Miyamoto of Japan, who failed on his final attempt at 195kg, settled for silver with 152kg-193kg-345kg.

China’s He Yueji twice broke the snatch world record, then followed it up with another record in the total, clinching bronze with 160kg-184kg344kg.

Among those who congratulated De los Santos was IWF president Mohammed Jalood, who lauded the young Filipino’s achievement.

“Promising to get a world record makes me sound cocky, which I’m not. But that was pretty special,” said De los Santos, who is also a business student in the Philippines. He added that his goal was to break into the top 10 and successfully hit 185kg—a milestone he achieved.

Meanwhile, in the women’s division, Olympian Elreen Ando finished fourth behind Ri Suk of North Korea, who delivered a record-breaking performance.

Ri set a new snatch world record with her third lift, then followed up by breaking the clean and jerk and total world marks, closing with 111kg-142kg-253kg. The North Korean standout finished 17kg ahead of Maude Charron, the Tokyo Olympic champion and Paris silver medalist, who tallied 236kg, and 22kg ahead of Yenny Sinisterra of Colombia, who settled for bronze.

IP Games, World Wushu on spotlight at PSA forum

THE coming Mindanao leg of the IP Games and the World Wushu Championships headline the topics to be discussed in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday (Oct. 7) at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Philippine Sports Commissioner Fritz Gaston talks about his program that will be going to the Province of Agusan Del Norte and Municipality of Buenavista from Oct. 11-12, which will have indigenous people vying in different games and sports.

Wushu Federation of the Philippines Secretary-General Julian Camacho, meanwhile will be appearing in the Forum for the first time in a long while and is set to discuss the country’s hosting and preparation for the world biennial meet set here in 2027.

Presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and the country’s 24/7 sports app ArenaPlus, the session starts at 10:30 a.m.

The public sports program is livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, which shares it on its official Facebook page

Radyo Pilipinas 2 sports.

UST Golden spikers sweep Ateneo to claim V-L bronze

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas made quick work of Ateneo de Manila University, 25-21, 25-19, 25-17, to secure a bronze medal finish in the 2025 VLeague Men’s Collegiate Challenge on Monday morning at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Determined to bounce back from a straight-sets loss to the FEU Tamaraws last Saturday that knocked them out of championship contention, the Golden Spikers set the tone early, relying on the combined efforts of Alas Pilipinas Men member Josh Ybañez and Al-Bukharie

Sali to surpass their fourth-place finish in last year’s edition of the tournament

By Peter Atencio

LA Tenorio’s first coaching victory in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) was as meaningful as it was difficult. The newly-minted Magnolia Timplados Hotshots coach guided his squad to an 80-73 triumph over his former team, the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings, Sunday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in the opener of the league’s 50th Philippine Cup. For Tenorio, who spent 17 decorated seasons as Ginebra’s floor general before taking the reins at Magnolia, it was not just another game.

“It was really hard. Emotionally, I had to battle,” Tenorio admitted after the game. “I really had to chal-

lenge my players that it’s not about me and coach Tim (Cone). I told them to focus on our system and on what we wanted to do as a team.”

The Gin Kings, coached by Tim Cone—Tenorio’s longtime mentor—mounted a furious rally in the fourth quarter, slicing a 63-48 Magnolia advantage down to just six points. But the Hotshots regrouped behind the steady play of Mark Barroca, rookie Zav Lucero, and Jerom Lastimosa, unleashing a 7-0 run that restored a double-digit cushion, 72-59, with under six minutes left. Tenorio credited his players for staying locked in despite the emotional backdrop of the match.

“The players were really ready going into this game,” he said. “I could feel it from the start. I guess they really wanted to give this first

win sa akin, so I truly appreciate their effort and their focus.”

Lucero stood tall with a gamehigh 17 points, combining with Javi Gomez de Liano and Lastimosa for a strong third-quarter push that broke the game open. Magnolia’s defense then clamped down on Ginebra, holding them to just five points in the final six minutes of the third. Despite the loss, Ginebra showed resilience, with Stephen Holt leading the way with 16 points and 17 rebounds.

For Tenorio, however, the night was less about numbers and more about the personal milestone of beginning his coaching career with a victory—ironically against the team and coach who helped shape him into the player and leader he became.

organized by Sports Vision.

Ybañez poured in 14 points with five excellent receptions, while Sali added 12 points on nine attacks, two blocks, and one ace. UST’s victory was a testament to their resilience and consistency, marking their third podium finish in four years since 2022.

“Joining this tournament, we have a two-fold goal. One is to qualify for the Spikers’ Turf and most importantly, yung sistema namin, ma-execute at ma-adjust yung mastery ng mga bata sa sistema. Although hindi kami nag-qualify sa championship, yung mastery nila tumaas,” Golden Spikers head coach Odjie Mamon said.

Two straight blocks by Sali, back-toback conversions by Ybañez, and two Ateneo errors allowed UST to seize a sevenpoint, 15-8 lead in the third set. That early surge proved decisive as the Golden Spikers widened the gap further, with three straight crosscourt hits by Andrei Delicana, Sali, and Ybañez, capped by a game-sealing backrow attack from Gabriel Hernandez, to complete the sweep in 74 minutes.

A backrow attack by Karl Reyes and a Miguel Yu block on Sherwin Umandal helped Ateneo trim the second set deficit to 19-17, but UST held firm in the clutch.

PH semiconductor exports face US tariff threat, 2-year slowdown

THE Philippines’ vital semiconductor export sector is expected to see flat-tomoderate growth this year and next, with risks weighed down by a shift in global demand and the threat of a potential 100 percent US tariff, according to a new report from Oxford Economics.

The country’s concentration in lower-value, legacy assembly, test and packaging (ATP) chips, along with its high exposure to US demand, could make it one of the most vulnerable in Asia to any potential tariff shock, it said. Major exporters in countries like South Korea and Taiwan are expected to qualify for carve-outs from the potential US tariff, citing their existing US manufacturing footprints. However, the report indicates that despite most semiconductor players in the Philippines also having a US presence— including Texas Instruments, Analog Devices, NXP and Onsemi—their local businesses are predominantly focused on cost-sensitive legacy ATP, where margins are thin.

A 100-percent tariff would make Philippine products less competitive, risking a shift of buyers to exempt sources. Semiconductor exports are critical to the Philippine economy, consistently accounting for around 55 percent of total manufacturing goods exports.

While regional peers have gained momentum from the Artificial Intelligence (AI) boom, which has

rewarded countries with advanced nodes and advanced packaging capabilities, Philippine semiconductor exports declined by about 13 percent in value terms and roughly 25 percent in volume terms in 2024. This makes the Philippines an outlier among Asian semiconductor exporters, with the sector having almost no capacity in the AI-related advanced nodes where most growth is now concentrated.

Demand for the legacy chips in which the Philippines specializes— used in auto, industrial, and consumer markets—has remained depressed due to inventory corrections, while growth in countries like Vietnam and Malaysia has been boosted by their recently developed AI-related capacity. South Korea’s semiconductor exports, for

instance, rose about 40 percent in value terms in 2024.

Oxford Economics noted that the sector could see some upside in the medium term as the global drive for resilient and diversified supply chains continues.

To capitalize on these opportunities, however, the Philippines need to upgrade its legacy-centric ATP capacity and diversify into higher-value segments, which will require significant foreign direct investments (FDIs), Oxford Economics said.

Upgrading the country’s product mix will take time and substantial FDI, which is likely to remain muted in the near term due to uncertainties surrounding the potential US tariff policy. The country also needs to address chronic

issues like infrastructure bottlenecks, red tape, regulatory uncertainty, and skills gaps, the report noted.

The recently enacted CREATE MORE Act, which aims to attract FDI by lowering income tax rates and extending tax perks, marks progress, but the report stresses the need for complementary, targeted policies to address the semiconductor sector’s specific needs, given its high energy consumption and capital-intensive nature.

“FDI will be essential for the Philippines to upgrade its capacity to advanced packaging and front-end fabrication,” Oxford Economics said.

“Otherwise, the country could be trapped in slow-growth sectors: steady legacy volumes, but gradually eroding market size and bargaining power,” it said.

Bangko Sentral seen holding rates this week

By Jenniffer B. Austria

De

2-percent to 4-percent target band after six consecutive months below the range. The rebound is attributed to rising prices of rice, fish and fuel, although this has been moderated by lower vegetable prices.

“Supported by lower rice import tariffs and subdued global oil prices, inflation is expected to return to the two percent to four percent target band defined by the BSP by the end of 2025,” de Castro said. Upside risks remain, including sticky food prices from typhoon-related supply shocks and the extended rice import ban, as well as potential peso depreciation beyond P58 per dollar, de Castro said.

PSE index plummets 108 points; peso slides to 58.34 a dollar

LOCAL shares started the week in the red as the main index plummeted by more than 100 points Monday ahead of the release of September inflation rate.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) lost 108.54 points, or 1.78 percent, to close at 6,000.32. The broader all-shares index dropped 41.90 points, or 1.14 percent, to 3,643.95.

The peso plunged to 58.35 to the U.S. dollar on Monday from 57.875 on Friday.

The market declined even as Asian stocks rose for a sixth consecutive day.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said investors turned cautious ahead of the inflation rate release on Tuesday, which could influence the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) next policy move. Limlingan added that profit-taking also

influenced Monday’s trading session as investors cashed in after the index rose for three consecutive trading days.

Only the mining and oil index managed to close in positive territory, increasing by 2.61 percent. The holding firms index declined the most, dropping by 2.02 percent, while the financial index went down by 1.96 percent.

Value turnover was lethargic at P4.91 billion. The market closed with 139 decliners versus 64 gainers, while 58 stocks remained unchanged.

Only two index stocks managed to close higher Monday. Shares of China Banking Corp. climbed 0.80 percent to P62.75, while ACEN Corp. was up 0.41 percent to P2.47. On the other hand, Monde Nissin Corp. was the worst performer, declining 4.29 percent to P6.70. Jenniffer B. Austria

Maynilad IPO gets major boost with IFC, ADB

By Jenniffer B. Austria

Maynilad Water Services, Inc.’s upcoming initial public offering (IPO) is expected to gain strong momentum after securing high-quality cornerstone investors, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said the presence of these reputable institutions is a strong vote of confidence in the company and is likely to attract significant interest from both institutional and retail investors. Their participation is expected to enhance the credibility of the offering and ensure

MOBILE TREATMENT

PLANT. Manila

Water’s mobile water treatment plant, capable of producing

3,000 liters per hour through conventional treatment and 1,500 liters per hour via reverse osmosis, is currently sourcing raw water from the Mandali River in Mobo, Masbate as communities in Masbate continue to recover from the devastation brought by Typhoon Opong. As of Oct. 6, Manila Water has distributed 24,000 liters of potable water to an estimated 16,000 individuals in Barangays Bagacay, Pinamarbuhan, Tabuk, and Malatukan. Relief operations have been ongoing since Oct. 2.

a successful IPO. “Maynilad has lined up high-quality cornerstone investors, including no less than the International Finance Corporation and Asian Development Bank,” Colet said. “We expect this to boost institutional and retail investor interest in the IPO and ensure a successful deal,” he added.

Aside from the IFC and ADB, Maynilad has secured six more international cornerstone investors: Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (acting through its Mobilising Capital through Listed Products, or MOBILIST), Maven Investment Partners Ltd.-Hong Kong Branch, Maybank Asset Management Singapore Pte. Ltd., Robeco Switzerland Ltd. and QRT Master Fund-Torus Fund SP.Domestic cornerstone investors BDO Capital, BPI Asset Management and Trust Corporation, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company and Security Banking Corporation-Trust and Asset Management Group also committed to the IPO.

THE investigations of the flood control scandal by Congressional committees and the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) has identified a number of causes of the greatest fiscal debacle in the history of the Philippine government.

One of the identified causes is the system of attaching so-called unprogrammed projects to the National Expenditure Program (NEP) that the Executive Department sends to Congress for consideration and possible inclusion in the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA)

As the name indicates, unprogrammed projects are not part of the Executive Department’s program of projects scheduled for implementation during the year covered by the GAA. Unlike NEP projects, unprogrammed projects have neither implementation timetables nor budgetary allocation. Unprogrammed projects are standby projects. Under Philippine budgetary practice, an unprogrammed project ceases to be a standby project and becomes a part of the NEP when new revenue sufficient to finance it becomes available. This budgetary practice must be scrapped

because it is objectionable on governance and economic grounds. On governance grounds, the unprogrammed-projects practice is conducive to corruption. The NEP must be made up of clearly-identified, readyto-go projects; there must be no room for contingent, possibly includible projects. Making provision for substitution— substituting unprogrammed projects for programmed ones—is an open invitation to corrupt legislators, especially the members of the small bicameral group that makes the final decision on which projects will comprise the NEP.

The requirement set by Congress and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the inclusion of un programmed projects in the NEP is the availability of incremental revenues. Exactly where have the incremental revenues come from? From higher tax collections? From new taxes? The Filipino people are not told. They are made to presume that the incremental-revenues requirement has been fulfilled when an unprogrammed project is inclusion in the NEP. This presumption is unwarranted. Why do incremental revenues have to be

Aside from the recognizable names, COL Financial research head April Lee said the reduction in the IPO price will make the Maynilad offering attractive. “Dividend yields have also become a lot higher and therefore more attractive,” Lee said. The IFC and ADB have committed to invest in Maynilad’s IPO at P15 per share, which is lower than the P20 maximum offer price set by the company. Meanwhile, the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) said Monday it approved Maynilad’s maiden share offering after the company filed its latest registration statement. Maynilad will offer for sale up to 1,660,317,400 common shares, with an overallotment option for another 249,047,600 shares and a preferential offer of up to 24,904,800 shares. The offer will run from Oct. 23 to 29, with the shares expected to be listed on the main board of the PSE on Nov. 7.

Maynilad tapped BPI Capital Corp., the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Morgan Stanley Asia (Singapore) Pte. and UBS AG Singapore Branch as joint global coordinators and joint bookrunners for the offer. Domestic underwriters include BPI Capital, Maybank Securite Pte. Ltd., BDO Capital & Investments Corp., First Metro Investments Corp., Security Bank Capital and East West Banking Corp.

SM Investments wins 17th consecutive Platinum Award for Sustainability

SM Investments Corp., the parent company of the SM group, has been honored with its 17th consecutive Platinum Award at The Asset Corporate Sustainability Leadership Awards organized by Hong Kong-based The Asset Publishing and Research Ltd.

SM’s banking arm, BDO Unibank Inc., also received a Platinum Award for its sustainability performance.

“More than the recognition, we see these accolades as a testament to the SM group’s expansive sustainability initiatives, from green financing, waste and water management, energy efficiency, to corporate governance,” said Frederic DyBuncio, president and chief executive of SM Investments.

Beyond sustainability leadership, SM Investments also received the Best Investor Relations Team Award for its social media and web-based services initiatives. Both

SM Investments and BDO likewise earned the Best Sustainability Team Awards for effectively advancing their sustainability agendas and engaging stakeholders.

According to The Asset, awardees undergo a rigorous process where company submissions are “reviewed, checked, and analyzed in detail” by its Editorial Board, with evaluations benchmarked against peers across industries and markets.

“We share these awards with our people, investors, and host communities. We are committed to continue pursuing initiatives that create shared value,” DyBuncio said.

The Asset Corporate Sustainability Leadership Awards spotlight companies that have successfully navigated today’s business complexities and demonstrated how integrating sustainability principles strengthens long-term business resilience and investor confidence.

Projects that are unprogrammed should be kept out of a proposed GAA

spent right away when they materialize?

The Philippine economy almost certainly will not collapse if certain unprogrammed projects are not included in the NEP under discussion. In recent years numerous cases have been uncovered of appropriated funds being merely ‘parked’ by the grantee agencies. With the nation’s debt ever rising, the Treasury can readily use the incremental revenues for debt service.

A NEP that is made up only of programmed projects fully attested to by the proposing agencies leaves no room for behind-closeddoors insertions and substitutions, thereby foreclosing Congress-DBM corruption.

The unprogrammed-projects practice is likewise objectionable on economic grounds. By definition unprogrammed projects

are second-priority undertakings. They come into play only when the first-priority projects—the programmed projects—for any reason cannot be implemented. In the ideal economic management situation, every operating Cabinet department has in reserve projects ready for implementation in the event that any first-priority projects become unimplementable. Second-priority projects are kept on the shelf, ready to be brought forward when the need arises.

To repeat, any incremental revenues that come into the Treasury’s hands need not be spent right away; they can be carried over to the succeeding year’s budget. Because unprogrammed projects are second-priority projects, they will not cause the economy’s collapse if they are not implemented at once. And the behind-closed-doors insertions into the NEP is a formula for collusion and corruption. Projects that are unprogrammed should be kept out of a proposed GAA. For all these reasons, this country’s budgetary practice of sending unprogrammed projects to Congress for possible favorable consideration should be scrapped right away. That means the 2026 budget cycle. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)

Rice farmers threaten protests over ‘plummeting’ prices

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines’ 2.5 million rice farmers are threatening mass protests over what they call the administration’s failure to address “plummeting” rice prices, which they say have driven them deeper into poverty.

The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) and the MAGSASAKA PartyList issued the warning, blaming the

steep price drop on massive rice importation that resulted from the Rice Tariffication Law enacted in 2019.

“This situation was worsened by the 57 percent cut in rice tariffs in July 2024 and the 40 percent decline in global rice prices since last year,” said former Agriculture Secretary and FFF Chairman Leonardo Montemayor and MAGSASAKA chairman Argel Joseph Cabatbat in a joint statement.

Montemayor said the government had downplayed its own data, which he claimed showed that government policies had failed to lower retail rice prices for consumers while driving farmgate prices below production costs.

He projected that for 2025 alone, farmers’ collective incomes are projected to drop by about P43 billion.

Montemayor also lamented that Pres-

Economy Council approves revised investment rules

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE revised Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) guidelines are meant to enhance the efficiency and turnaround time of projects, according to Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan.

In a statement released Monday, DEPDev announced that the Economy and Development Council (ED Council) has approved the updated guidelines for reviewing and approving new and ongoing major government projects.

Key changes include the increased cost threshold for locally funded programs and projects at P5 billion and the expanded ICC coverage to include Public-Private Partnership projects.

The updated guidelines also institutionalize the ICC’s mandatory review of foreign loan-assisted projects, regardless of total cost. They also encourage the submission of well-prepared and strategically aligned proposals.

“The improvement in our processes at the Economy and Development Council, particularly at the ICC level, are meant to enhance efficiency and the turnaround of projects,” Balisacan said in a news briefing.

“For example, we have raised the threshold from P2.5 billion to P5 billion already, while at the same time putting safeguards into the various stages of the approval process so that we can spot possible issues or problems that may arise,” he added.

The ED Council has also approved increased costing amounting to $400 million and implementation extensions for four U.S. government-assisted development objective agreements.

Broken down, the council has approved a $524-million costing adjustment from $224 million to help sustain improvement in health outcomes among underserved

ident Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ignored repeated requests from farmers’ groups for a dialogue. Cabatbat, a former MAGSASAKA representative in the 18th Congress, reiterated calls for the immediate imposition of additional tariffs under the Safeguard Measures Act to stem the continued decline in rice prices.

He said that Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has yet to

populations and strengthen the country’s overall health profile.

Costs for the enhanced ecosystem and community resilience objective were also increased from $150 million to $250 million, aimed at enhancing the ability of natural systems to provide ecosystem services and address climate change.

Meanwhile, the implementation period for economic growth and democratic governance with equity and improved basic education outcomes were both increased to Sept. 30, 2027.The agency said these adjustments are intended for ensuring the continuity of project implementation during management transition from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the U.S. Department of State.

“These timely adjustments are crucial to sustaining the gains we have achieved through these agreements. They will ensure that programs continue to deliver meaningful results for the Filipino people, particularly in health, education, economic growth, governance, and climate resilience,” Balisacan said.

BCDA finalizes P560-m deal to redevelop Mile-Hi property

By Othel V. Campos

THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has entered into a P560 million long-term lease agreement with the consortium of Istana Development Corp. (IDC) and Meridian Commercial Centers, Inc. (MCCI) for the sustainable redevelopment of the Mile-Hi property in Camp John Hay, Baguio City. Signed on Oct. 6, 2025, the agreement paves the way for the restoration and transformation of the 6,647-square-meter site into an upscale commercial hub that honors Camp John Hay’s heritage while driving local economic growth.

“Mile-Hi will once again be a place that welcomes visitors, strengthens local livelihoods, and sustains the spirit of Baguio for generations to come,” said BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang.

IDC chairman Jesus Emmanuel Yujuico said the company will work closely with BCDA and the John Hay Management Corp. (JHMC) to ensure the redevelopment aligns with their shared vision.

Under the agreement, the consortium will restore and rehabilitate the Mile-Hi property while preserving its historical significance and integrating sustainable design principles.

The public is informed that pursuant to Memorandum No. 87 dated 11 February 2016 with the subject “Directing the Abolition of the Philippine Veterans Assistance Commission and the Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation, and for other purposes” PVAC and PHIVIDEC shall be abolished. Accordingly, the corporations’ respective assets shall be liquidated to settle their respective outstanding liabilities in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.

All creditors or any interested individual or entity which has a claim against PHIVIDEC may file a Notice of Claim on or before 15 October 2025, addressed to:

Attention: ATTY. SHANNON MAE O. CANOY TWG Member

PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority PHIVIDEC Complex, Tagoloan, Misamis, Oriental,9001

All Notices of Claim filed after 15 October

longer be included and acted upon in the

proceedings

comply with the law’s requirement to conduct a preliminary investigation within five days of receiving the joint petition filed by FFF and MAGSASAKA on Sept. 29.

“The temporary suspension of rice imports since Sept. 2 has had little effect on palay prices. They remain low because traders expect cheap, low-tariff imports to resume when the ban is lifted before yearend,” Cabatbat said.

Electricity spot market price lowest in 7 months

By Alena Mae S. Flores

Tprice in the Philippines dropped to its lowest level in seven months in September 2025, the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) said Monday.

The decline was due to lower demand and higher supply, according to IEMOP. System-wide electricity rates for the billing period of Aug. 26 to Sept. 25, 2025, went down to P3.04 per kilowatthour (kWh) from P4.59 per kWh in the previous period.

The P1.55-per-kWh decline represented a 33.8-percent drop in system-wide prices during the period.

IEMOP corporate planning and communications manager Arjon Valencia said in a statement that system-wide average supply increased by 0.5 percent to 20,712 megawatts (MW) last month, while demand declined by 2.9 percent to 13,640 MW.

“This supply-demand level resulted in an increased margin of 5,194 MW, up from 4,578 MW in August 2025. Consequently, average market prices dropped to P3.04 per kWh, down from P4.59 per kWh in the prior month—the lowest in the last seven months,” Valencia said. He said the increased margin compared to the previous billing month led to the lower prices, adding there were no major plant outages affecting the September billing period.

Similar conditions of increasing supply and

decreasing demand were observed across the country’s main regions, Valencia said. In the Visayas, average prices decreased by P2.37 per kWh to P4.02 per kWh from P6.40 per kWh, despite a slight increase in power demand to 2,440 MW. Power flow from Mindanao to Visayas was reduced.

“While Visayas experienced an earthquake on Sept. 30 that caused multiple tripping of transmission lines and generators, this will be settled as part of the October 2025 billing period,” Valencia said.

Mindanao also saw prices decline by P2.47 per kWh, with average spot market electricity prices reaching P4.19 per kWh in September from P6.66 per kWh. Mindanao demand was 2,100 MW compared to an available supply of 3,592 MW. In terms of the system-wide generation mix, Valencia reported that renewable energy (RE) contributed 26 percent of total generation.

Coal increased its share to 55.1 percent from 50.6 percent. Hydro generation continued its upward trend, rising from 12.6 percent to 13.5 percent due to a rainy season intensified by a typhoon.

IN BRIEF

project will bolster digital connectivity between Southeast Asia and the USA,” said Keppel Connectivity chief executive Manjot Singh Mann.

“The Bifrost Cable System will reinforce Singapore’s position as a leading digital hub in Asia and support the region’s rapidly growing digital economy,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar PH motorcycle sales up 11.8% in 8 months THE Philippine motorcycle industry saw unit sales grow by 11.8 percent in the first eight months of 2025, reaching 1,227,160 units from 1,098,056 units recorded in the same period in 2024, according to the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association Inc. (MDPPA). The sustained demand for motorcycles as an affordable and practical mobility solution for increasingly congested roads is largely credited for the consistent growth. Data from MDPPA showed that in August

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Tanduay joins coastal cleanup

TANDUAY Distillers Inc. (TDI), affirming its commitment to environmental sustainability, was among the private companies that heeded the call of thr Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to gather volunteers for the International Coastal Cleanup (ICI) Day 2025.

TDI employee-volunteers took part in the coastal cleanup of Manila Bay Dolomite Beach on Sept. 20. They collected a total of 191.21 kilograms of waste from the shoreline.

“By participating in the ICC, we further reinforced our company-wide commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices,” Francheska Cruz, Tanduay Group Safety, Environment and Risk Management officer, said. Cruz said TDI has been joining coastal cleanups and tree-planting activities for years now.

Sustainability Reporting staff Jona Lalo said their participation in the ICC was also part of Tanduay’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.

“We have different CSR efforts in a year, not just in our head office, but also in our plants,” she said, referring to their plants in Cabuyao, Laguna; El Salvador, Misamis Oriental; and Murcia, Negros Occidental.

Mel Reyes of TDI’s Accounting department said it was fulfilling to participate in what seemed like a simple act of collecting waste.

“We help protect marine life, keep our coast clean, and benefit the community that depends on it,” he said. “It reminds us that our daily choices really do affect the environment.”

Repeat volunteer Ariane Fuentes said the activity was satisfying more than it was exhausting.

“It made me happy to know that I helped in making a positive impact for the fture,” she said.

The ICC is the world’s largest volunteer effort for ocean and waterway protection, with this year’s theme “Clean Seas Against the Climate Crisis.” PNA

Marine ecosystem remains fragile—experts

THE country’s marine biodiversity is facing big challenges, with coral cover and fish populations under constant threat from pollution, experts warned.

Dr. Wilfredo Licuanan, a principal investigator at the Br. Alfred Shields FSC Ocean Research (SHORE) Center of De La Salle University and Rodne Galicha, executive director of the Living Laudato Si’ Movement Philippines, said climate change was compounding marine biodiversity issues.

Drawing from decades of scientific monitoring and advocacy, both

experts sounded the alarm on the state of the country’s seas and the urgent actions needed to protect them.

While the Philippines is recognized as a global center of marine biodiversity, home to the world’s third-largest reef area, hosting around 600 species of stony corals, contributing 25 percent of national fisheries production, and protecting

coastlines by dissipating 97 percent of wave energy, researchers warned of troubling realities.

They said the country still has no nationally-coordinated long-term monitoring effort to track reef health over time.

Episodes of mass coral bleaching have already turned once vibrant ecosystems into what has been described in Laudato Si’ (Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment) as “underwater cemeteries bereft of color and life.”

Further, crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks, trash accumulation in marine protected areas, and the illegal

harvesting of giant clams continue to harm already fragile habitats. Many MPAs remain too small and undermanaged, offering little improvement in coral cover or fish populations.

These challenges are further compounded by climate change, with 2024 recorded as the warmest year on record, amplifying stress on marine ecosystems.

“Up-to-date, scientifically-sound monitoring is essential in allowing communities to respond to changes in reef health, and citizen science volunteers can fulfill crucial roles in this effort,” said Licuanan.

Globe sees rosy future growth with sustainability agenda

GLOBE Telecom Inc. renewed its commitment to push for a sustainable environment as it celebrated in August its 50th year as a publiclylisted company at the Philippine Stock Exchange. As the company looks into the

future, it stressed a renewed focus on nation-building and driving the country’s digital transformation. The golden milestone underscores Globe’s enduring commitment to create meaningful impact in the lives of Filipinos.

“On this occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to build a sustainable future that is digitally inclusive and respects the environment,” said Yoly Crisanto, chief sustainability and corporate communications officer of Globe. “We mark this milestone with purpose and meaning to create a Globe of Good.”

To add meaning to the celebration, Globe supported two of its most valued and long-standing advocacy partners: Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI) and the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF).

These contributions are part of Globe of Good, the company’s overarching platform for corporate social responsibility and communityfocused initiatives. Through the Globe of Good platform, partner NGOs are able to receive donations through various fundraising platforms such as Globe Rewards, GoGive and The Hapag Movement, which can be accessed through the GlobeOne app. Globe’s contribution of additional tablets to the Ayala Foundation supports the participation of DepEd’s CENTEX Manila in Tondo in a pilot of CENTEX Digital Education, an initiative that aims to bridge learning gaps by combining strong teacher training with adaptive digital tools like Khan Academy.

It focuses on strengthening teachers’ capacity to implement personalized, AI, data-driven, and engaging instruction inside their classrooms.

According to an independent third-party evaluation, students in various public schools have shown significant improvements in academic performance, with average math scores doubling in only 12 weeks.

Antonio Joselito G. Lambino II, president of Ayala Foundation, expressed gratitude for the collaboration.

“We are honored to be part of Globe’s golden celebration. This partnership strengthens our work in using digital infrastructure to transform learning environments― helping Filipino youth succeed in a connected world,” he said.

The contribution follows an earlier donation of 20 tablets under the company’s G-Gantic Goals campaign, which seeks to increase access to digital learning resources for underserved students.

Each tablet will be preloaded with content from Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), promoting responsible online behavior, digital citizenship, and cybersecurity awareness.

How Spain is turning an iconic lagoon from ‘green soup’ into a natural oasis

Conclusion

MANY people in the region and beyond were outraged. Tens of thousands protested in cities such as Murcia and Cartagena calling for action to save the Mar Menor. More than 500,000 signed a petition asking for the lagoon to receive stronger legal protection.

In response, Spain’s government presented a “framework of priority actions” to halt and reverse the degradation of the lagoon. Parliament, meanwhile, passed a landmark law granting the Mar Menor “legal personality” and a right to exist and be protected–a first in Europe. And regional lawmakers tightened the regulation of land use.

“For us, of course, it was a ray of hope,” said Rubio. Tackling the causes

Armed with a budget of 675 million euros, project managers began implementing the government’s restoration framework in 2021. The plan includes dozens of on-the-ground restoration actions.

An urgent priority is creating a 1,500-meter-wide green belt around the lagoon, including a series of artificial wetlands as well as rehabilitated sand dunes and other restored natural areas. Some wetlands are being paired with “green filters,” where pumped groundwater is passed through vegetation that absorbs most of the pollutants.

One high-profile measure expected to begin soon is the dismantling of a controversy-plagued marina on the sandbank that divides the lagoon from the Mediterranean Sea. But much of the plan is devoted to addressing the pollution that has beset the lagoon at its most important sources. UNEP News

In the same learning session hosted by Shore It Up! (SIU), the environmental advocacy program of Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), participants were introduced to citizen science monitoring, a process where community members are trained to survey reefs, process findings with schools and local groups, and present results directly to government officials. The participatory approach presents the principle that management begins with measurement, stressing the importance of accessible, communitydriven data collection.

FROM the rainforests of Central America to low-lying atolls in the Pacific and drought-stricken plains in Africa, leaders came to the United Nations General Assembly last week with a common message: climate change is no longer a distant threat, but an immediate danger demanding bolder global commitments.

Their appeals, sharpened by rising seas, failed harvests and disappearing ecosystems, echoed Secretary-General António Guterres’s warning at a climate summit that the world is already in the “dawn of a new energy era” –one where clean energy must replace fossil fuels, and where finance and justice remain at the heart of the global response.

“The bottom-line: clean is competitive and climate action is imperative,” he declared, calling for “dramatic emissions cuts” aligned with 1.5°C goal of the landmark Paris Agreement on climate change, agreed by all nations in 2015.

“We know it can be done ... COP30 in Brazil must conclude with a credible global response plan to get us on track,” he added, referring to the 30th UN climate change conference in November, which aims to accelerate global efforts to limit temperature rise and advance commitments on emissions, adaptation and climate finance.

The UN chief’s urgency provided the backdrop as world leaders presented compelling accounts of climate peril and promise on the second day of the Assembly’s annual general debate.

The “triple planetary crisis”–climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss – featured prominently in the address by King Felipe VI of Spain, who underscored that governments must accelerate a just energy transition.

He pressed for tripling renewable capacity, doubling efficiency and advancing decarbonisation in time for COP30, where Spain hopes to see consensus and ambition.

“These objectives are as ambitious as they are necessary,” he said, cautioning that hesitation can no longer be part of the global equation.

For Panama, which has long championed conservation despite contributing little to global emissions, the call was for integrated action.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025

Editor

NICKIE WANG,

ANGELICA

VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER

VALDEZ, Writer

By Nickie Wang

ACTOR JM Ibarra bashfully brushed off talk that he’s being “groomed” as a dramatic actor and leading man, saying he’s simply making the most of the chances that come his way.

“Hindi naman,” he said with a shy smile when asked about his growing heartthrob image. “I was just given an opportunity to do these kinds of projects lately, that’s why I’m taking advantage of the opportunity.”

A proud product of Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11, JM has been steadily carving his own path. He currently stars in the hit iWant series Ghosting alongside perennial screen partner, Fyang Smith

“Even before we started the project, my heart was already open to

Turkey pulls plug on Robbie Williams concert over safety fears

TURKISH authorities have banned a Robbie Williams concert scheduled for Oct. 7 in Istanbul over “safety concerns” following several calls for protest, a source from the city governor’s office told AFP Sunday.

The concert would have occurred on the anniversary of the devastating Hamas-led attacks in Israel that triggered war in Gaza and a global protest movement against it.

The organizing company announced the concert’s cancellation “in line with a decision made by the Istanbul governor’s office”, adding that ticket refunds would be processed shortly through the platform where they were purchased.

Speaking to AFP , the source from the governor’s office cited “safety concerns” without elaborating further.

The British singer Williams, whose wife is Jewish, performed in Israel in 2015 and 2023 despite calls from pro-Palestinian activists to boycott the country.

Several NGOs urged Turkish authorities to cancel the Oct. 7 concert, and others including the Islamic Solidarity Platform had planned protests under the slogan “Zionist Robbie Williams, get out of Turkey!”

“I am extremely sorry that I will not be able to perform in Istanbul next week,” the 51-year-old announced on his Instagram story. “City authorities have cancelled the show in the interests of public safety.”

“The last thing I would ever want to do is to jeopardize the safety of my fans—their safety and security come first.”

In September, Turkish authorities banned an Enrico Macias concert in

By Jasper Valdez

FOR the first time, Rabin Angeles and Angela Muji are taking their trending love team to the big screen as they headline the Philippine adaptation of the Korean hit A Werewolf Boy

The project marks a career milestone for the pair, better known as RabGel, who broke out earlier this year through the Viva One series Seducing Drake Palma. The show, based on a Wattpad novel with over 133 million reads, became one of the platform’s top titles and helped cement Rabin and Angela as one of 2025’s most-followed young love teams.

While the story of Drake and Alys continues in the upcoming Dating Alys Perez, the two admit their focus is now on proving themselves as lead actors on film.

For Rabin, the role is both thrilling and nervewracking. He shared that he studied films and various series to prepare, being extra cautious not to copy original lead Song Joong-ki’s portrayal of the character.

“We need to bring something new—we can’t just copy,” he said.

Part of his preparation also included spending hours in prosthetics to bring the wolf-like character to life. “It was exhausting, but I had to give everything to portray it properly,” he added.

Angela said she approached her role with the same determination, noting that she wanted her character to stand apart from her earlier portrayal in Seducing Drake Palma.

“Our characters have to be distinct. They can’t be interchangeable; otherwise, the portrayal won’t be effective,” she explained.

For her, the challenge is to balance vulnerability with strength as she plays a young woman caring for someone who behaves like a wild creature.

JM Ibarra downplays ‘leading man’ tag

it,” he said. “I’m enjoying my work, my screen partner Fyang, and the lessons I’m learning along the way. Every new project, I just try to absorb everything.”

Off-screen, his chemistry with Fyang remains strong, and he said they are happy with their current status.

“From then until now, that hasn’t changed,” he said, adding with a grin, “It’s like our happiness levels up every time we work together.”

Following the success of Ghosting, fans can look forward to Part 2, which is set for release this November.

Apart from their current assignments together, JM and Fyang will pair up again in Regal Entertainment’s upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival entry, Shake,

yet comes with his first full-length lead role in Child No. 82: Anak ni Boy Kana , an entry in the 21st Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.

“Of course, I felt pressure and nerves on set,” he admitted. “But the entire production team guided me from start to finish, which made the experience fulfilling.”

Describing the film, he said it tackles a social issue, something many Filipinos can relate to.

“It also touches on family dynamics and current realities. My character, Max, is the illegitimate child of a prominent figure, technically, an unacknowledged nepo baby,” he added. Child No. 82 screens from Oct. 3 to 12 at Red Carpet Cinemas in Shangri-La Plaza, Cinemalaya’s new

Rabin Angeles, Angela Muji pair up for first movie

Director Crisanto Aquino, who also helmed Seducing Drake Palma, leads the adaptation. Both actors credited him for pushing them beyond the romantic-comedy image that endeared them to fans.

“It’s not only about the romance anymore. This is real character work for us,” Rabin said. Angela added that they wanted to stay true to the story while giving it a Filipino touch.

“We want the characters to feel authentic to our culture so that audiences here can connect to them in a deeper way,” she said.

The film, produced by Viva Films and Studio Viva, reimagines the Korean favorite with a local setting. It follows a provincial girl who meets a feral young man who cannot speak. As she teaches him how to live normally, their unlikely connection grows into a tender but difficult romance. With filming underway, the two admitted they still feel nervous about carrying a major project but are eager to show growth.

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Heroes behind the wheels

Lalamove honors partner drivers through short film fest

By Angelica Villanueva

WHAT does it mean to be a hero on the road? For Lalamove, the on-demand delivery platform, the answer lies in the everyday journeys of its partner drivers.

On Sept. 24, the company brought those stories to the big screen in Heroes Behind the Wheel, a film festival that turned reallife experiences of riders from Manila, Pampanga, and Cebu into short films.

The campaign began in June with the Search for the Next Lalamove Hero, an online contest that drew more than 500 submissions from drivers eager to share their stories of perseverance and sacrifice. From that pool, five were selected to be developed into films, with the drivers themselves stepping into the role of both storytellers and actors.

“Through these films, we’re not just telling stories of Lalamove partner drivers, we are amplifying their voices. By sharing their stories, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for their role as unsung heroes and inspire more people to acknowledge and celebrate them,” said Djon Nacario, managing director of Lalamove Philippines.

The lineup highlighted a range of experiences from five Lalamove partner drivers. Mark Shervin Ohoy’s Love is Blind injects humor into a rain-soaked delivery that turned into an unlikely relationship drama. Deogratias Gadil’s Kaagapay shows how a routine day on the road can quickly turn into an act of compassion when

a fellow rider needs help. In Serbisyo, former soldier Michell Culang finds a new way to serve others through a delivery that made the difference in a life-or-death situation. Student rider Jozel Opeña’s Diploma chronicles his determination to finish his studies while working full-time on two wheels. Jerome Fugado’s Valentine’s Day illustrated the perseverance and patience it takes to deliver love—and flowers—during one of the busiest seasons of the year.

For the drivers, seeing their lives on screen was both humbling and surreal.

“When I found out they chose my story, I couldn’t believe it. It’s very touching.

I’m grateful Lalamove made it even more inspiring on film,” said Opeña, who juggles full-time studies with deliveries.

Fugado, who has been with Lalamove for almost four years while raising a family and running a small business, echoed the sentiment.

“Sometimes we think deliveries are just

small things, but they’re not. When you’re motivated by your family, no job feels too hard,” he shared. The celebration ended with an intimate screening and awards ceremony attended by the drivers and their families. Ohoy received the Best Actor award (Director’s Choice), while Opeña swept three categories—Media’s Choice, DICT’s Choice, and People’s Choice through online voting—taking home P11,000 in cash prizes and trophies. All five honorees received gifts from sponsors, including fuel vouchers from Caltex and smartwatches from MemoXpress.

Apart from recognition, the campaign underscored Lalamove’s continuing effort to support its drivers through Panalomove Benefits, which provide discounts, insurance, and vehicle maintenance assistance.

The films serve as a reminder that what may seem like routine deliveries often hold stories of sacrifice, determination, and love far beyond the road.

IT SEEMS Kontrabida Academy did more than bring entertainment, as fans have also observed that it may have sparked a genuine connection between Jameson Blake and Barbie Forteza

In a recent interview, Jameson shared that it was during the filming of the movie that he and Barbie grew close. “We met there, and the rest is history,” he said with a grin.

Their chemistry developed naturally, helped by a shared hobby. “We love to run.

We’re just really enjoying each other’s company,” he added. When asked to describe their current relationship, Jameson didn’t shy away

‘Boys’ Night Out’ ends 19-year run on radio

By Rolando Ng III

RADIO program Boys’ Night Out, one of the longestrunning shows on Magic 89.9, ended its 19-year run.

In a post shared last week, hosts Slick Rick, Tony Toni, and Gamboa announced their decision to retire the show after nearly two decades on air.

Gamboa, formerly known as DJ Suzy, also confirmed that she has left the station after 17 years as part of its team.

“The fact that all three of us are leaving together brings me so much peace. These guys are my brothers,” she wrote Tuesday.

BNO, which was supposed to air its final episode tonight, has been off the air since Wednesday following a “preventive suspension” imposed by management.

“We do not condone toxic superiors, power-tripping, or division in the very workplace we called home for nearly two decades,” the hosts said in an Instagram post, referring to tensions with the station’s management.

The trio thanked listeners for their support through the years, saying the show had built a community where stories and laughter were shared.

“Every laugh, story, and memory we’ve shared together will forever live in our hearts,” they wrote Wednesday.

Boys’ Night Out first aired in 2006 with Slick Rick, Tony Toni, and King DJ Logan as its original hosts. Logan was replaced by Sam YG a year later, completing the trio that became one of radio’s most recognizable teams for more than a decade.

Are Jameson Blake and Barbie Forteza building a romantic connection?

from sincerity. “It’s genuine, whether you call it friendship or relationship. It’s not just about the movie.”

Barbie recently visited Jameson’s home in Angeles City, Pampanga, where she met his mother.

“She was taping nearby and wanted to explore. So, she dropped by our house,” he said.

As for whether he’s courting the Kapuso actress, Jameson admitted they’re taking things slowly.

“Yes, sort of. We’re in the early stage. We just want to get to know each other better,” he shared.

He spoke highly of Barbie, praising her professionalism and warmth. He said that the young actress is very respectful, kind, and talented.

“Everyone knows how good she is as an actress. Offcam, she’s sweet and nice, but when the cameras roll, she transforms

completely,” he stated.

When asked if Barbie makes him happy, his answer was simple and sincere: “Oh yes! I think we all deserve to be happy. And I’m happy.”

Fans, of course, are just as thrilled.

“I appreciate the support from our followers. Who wouldn’t like that?” he said.

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Shuvee Etrata Builds Her Dream for the Family KAPUSO star Shuvee Etrata is one step closer to fulfilling a lifelong dream— building a home for her family in Polomolok, Mindanao.

“Maybe next year it will be completed,” she said. “My goal is to have the house done by 2026.” She recently bought an 800-squaremeter lot, where her siblings, who all study in Polomolok, will soon have their own rooms. “As their older sister, I’m proud that I can finally give them that,” she said.

The Pinoy Big Brother Collab Edition alumna said the dream stems from her childhood.

“Growing up, we never had our own house. There were eight of us sharing one room,” she shared. Now that she can provide for her family, Shuvee is determined to give them the comfort and space they’ve never had before. “I want my siblings to experience having their own rooms, and my family to finally have a place to call home,” she said.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Shaping the next generation of culinary stars and food entrepreneurs

By Nickie Wang

EASYBRAND envisions empowering Filipino food entrepreneurs by making professional-grade culinary and beverage solutions accessible to all.

As a homegrown company, it aims to elevate local businesses through innovation, efficiency, and training programs that bridge passion with profitability. Thus, the local brand opened its first Easy Training Center on Oct. 3, with celebrated chef Boy Logro at the helm of its culinary programs.

The new facility, which provides a dedicated space for practical learning guided by seasoned professionals, aims to equip chefs, food entrepreneurs, and beverage specialists with hands-on training tailored to the evolving demands of the food service industry.

Chef Logro, an EasyPro ambassador and one of the Philippines’ most recognizable culinary figures, led the inaugural session alongside the Faces of Easy Brand and other industry mentors.

Designed to meet real-world challenges, the Easy Training Center offers programs that combine kitchen mastery with business acumen. The initiative reflects EasyBrand PH’s goal of making professional training accessible and profitable for those seeking to grow in the food and beverage industry.

“This training center is more than just a

FILIPINOS have long loved coffee, a drink deeply tied to daily life and tradition. From the strong kapeng barako of Batangas to instant brews in local stores, coffee brings comfort and connection to many. The country has been growing coffee since the 18th century, once ranking among the world’s top producers.

Today, local brands are giving Filipino coffee a fresh identity— premium in quality yet easy to enjoy. That’s exactly what the people behind SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) had in mind before they officially unveiled Dash Cart, a coffee-on-wheels concept created with Nestlé Philippines.

place to cook—it’s where we turn passion into livelihood,” said Logro. “We want to train people with skills that are relevant today, from efficient kitchen operations to creative menu development, so they can compete in the growing food service market.”

The Easy Training Center’s courses are structured to fit different skill levels and schedules. The EasyPro three-day module covers culinary operations, explores the difference between traditional and Easy methods, and concludes with evaluation and certification.

The one-day Easy Beverage program focuses on hands-on training in coffee, milk tea, mocktails, and cocktails,

aligning with current café and beverage trends. The two-day Easy Signature program offers advanced culinary techniques and creative recipes for professional-level preparation.

Apart from practical instruction, participants gain exposure to EasyBrand products, learning how to maximize efficiency and creativity while maintaining quality. The center also serves as a business incubator, offering longterm mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs. Its integration of EasyBrand’s product lines— Easy, EasyPro, Easy Signature, and Easy Sparkle—ensures consistency in output and cost efficiency, essential for small and medium food ventures.

EasyBrand plans to expand the center’s reach, envisioning a nationwide network of culinary and beverage training hubs. Its mission is to empower Filipinos to build sustainable food businesses and compete in a growing,

innovation-driven market.

Backed by EasyBrand PH, the Easy Training Center blends technical culinary instruction with practical business training.

Under the guidance of Chef Boy Logro and the Faces of Easy Brand, the center delivers short, market-driven courses that emphasize real-world application and entrepreneurial readiness.

Located in Congressional, Quezon City, the Easy Training Center offers three programs— EasyPro, Easy Beverage, and Easy Signature— with flexible enrollment options online or onsite.

“What separates these programs from other training courses already available at traditional culinary schools, they integrate practical business training to help participants create consistent, cost-effective, and market-ready products,” Logro said.

O W & N E X T Hotel group brews up convenience with new coffee-on-wheels concept

The launch, held at the Pico de Loro Country Club, was attended by executives from both companies and highlighted by a ribbon-cutting and coffee toast ceremony.

“We’re thrilled that Pico de Loro Cove is the first to roll out Dash,” said Maxi Gavino, general manager of Pico

began as a simple grab-andgo idea before evolving into a mobile cart that could bring quality coffee wherever guests are.

“With Nestlé on board, the concept has become a true collaboration,” she said. Ian Alcantara, senior business development manager of Nestlé Philippines, said the project aims to “bring the comfort of the Nestlé coffee experience to members and guests of Pico de Loro Cove.” Agnes Pacis, SMHCC vice

president for Commercial, emphasized that the cart offers more than convenience. “Wherever you are in the property, the Dash Cart will come to you. It’s about pairing quality coffee with fresh breads and pastries, delivering comfort and enjoyment— one cup at a time.” Currently parked at the beachfront of Pico de Loro Cove, the Dash Cart serves a curated selection of coffee

and pastries.