Manila Standard - 2026 January 2 - Friday

manilastandard.net

@ManilaStandardPH

@mnlstandardph

@manilastandard

@ManilaStandardYT

Missed your copy of Manila Standard? Call or text our Circulation Hotline at 0917-8848655 or email: circulation@manilastandard.net . For advertisement: email: advertise@manilastandard.net • 09173382170 / 85646229

SAP rejects links to ‘Cabral list’ Palace: Ombudsman verifying authenticity of files with Leviste By Charles Dantes

S

PECIAL Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. on Thursday said his office has no hand in budget listings after Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste claimed there was an “OP (ES/SAP)” tag in the so-called “Cabral list” that covered 75 projects worth at least P8 billion in the 2025 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways. In a statement, Special Assistant to President (OSAP) is not an implementing the President Antonio Lagdameo said agency and does not have the technical the Office of the Special Assistant to the Next page

VOL. XXXIX • NO. 321 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

Fabella Hospital welcomes ‘New Year babies’ Yuri, Zamara By Pot Chavez and Ram Superable BABY boy Yuri and baby girl Zamara came bouncing into the world just as the clock struck midnight, heralding the arrival of the new year at the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital in Manila. Sally Alburo delivered Yuri, her second child, while Jenylyn Dalen gave birth to Zamara 10 seconds later. “(The labor) was so painful, but after giving birth to him, the pain I was feeling was gone, replaced by joy,” Alburo said in Filipino in an interview with ABS-CBN News. Next page

FIRST ONES IN FABELLA. Two mothers

rest while holding their newborns at the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital inside the San Lazaro Compound in Santa Cruz, Manila. Sally Alburo, right, 25, from Carmona, Cavite, delivered a baby boy in her second pregnancy, followed just 10 seconds later by Jennifer Dalen, left, 21 also from Cavite, who gave birth to a baby girl in her first pregnancy, marking the first babies born in the hospital in 2026. Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Mayon Volcano acts up, residents Firecracker injuries down but victims younger—DOH barred from entering 6km zone By Ram Superable and Vince Lopez

By Rex Espiritu THE Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council–Albay Provincial Safety and Emergency Management Office (PDRRMC-APSEMO)

issued a disaster-avoidance advisory after the alert level of Mayon Volcano was raised from Alert Level 1 to Alert Level 2, indicating moderate unrest. To ensure public safety and prevent Next page

FIREWORK-RELATED injuries recorded during the New Year celebrations declined significantly compared with last year, according to a Department of Health advisory released Thursday. The DOH said it logged 235 firework-related injury cases nationwide

from Dec. 21, 2025 to Jan. 1, 2026. Of the total, 62 cases were recorded on New Year’s Day as Filipinos welcomed 2026 with traditional celebrations involving fireworks. The agency said the current tally is 42 percent lower than the 403 cases reported during the same period surrounding the start of 2025. Data

showed that 161 of the 235 victims were 19 years old and below, while the rest were adults. Most injuries were linked to unidentified types of fireworks, as well as boga and 5-Star firecrackers. Despite the decline, health officials cautioned that the number could still increase as Next page

‘Nazareno’ preparations start; visits to Manila barangays begin THE icon of the Black Nazarene will be brought to 15 barangays surrounding Quiapo, Manila over six days starting Thursday, as part of preparations for the annual traslacion. In a social media post on Wednesday,

the Quiapo Church announced the schedule for the barangay visitation 2026, which will take place from Jan. 1 to 6. The activity forms part of the church’s annual devotional events Next page

NEW YEAR GREETINGS. The First Family extends its New Year greetings with a digital card posted in their official FB account.

128 journos killed in 2025, mostly in Middle East By Rex Espiritu A TOTAL of 128 journalists were killed around the world in 2025, more than half of them in the Middle East, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) said Thursday.

At the same time, the IFJ said 533 journalists across the globe were currently in prison—a figure that has more than doubled over the past half-decade. This as several media workers and former journalists were killed in sep-

arate incidents across the Philippines in 2025, underscoring persistent concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists in the country. The grim toll, up from 2024, “is not just a statistic, it’s a global red alert Next page

ACTING UP. Mayon Volcano acts up on the first day of the year, prompting the

Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to raise its alert to level two. FB of Jeffrey James Abogado Mesias

A2

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

MECO hails Taiwan recruitment plan By Katrina Manubay

T

HE Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), which serves as the Philippines’ de facto embassy in Taiwan, has welcomed Taiwan’s plan to establish its first cross-border recruitment center in the Philippines, set to begin operations in the first quarter of 2026.

recruitment center. She also highlighted the need to engage with sectors facing labor shortages, such as hospitality and commercial ports, to promote shared prosperity while safeguarding the dignity of migrant workers. For its part, Taiwan’s Ministry of MOL has announced that the new center will open in the first quarter of 2026, bypassing the manpower brokerage system that has been in place until now. Reports indicate that under this new system, Taiwanese employers will cover the costs for flight tickets, health checkups, and visas for migrant workers, rather than the workers themselves.

sive evidence. “When stories have no firm evidence to stand on, they remain speculation,” the Palace official said. Leviste on Wednesday evening admitted he does not know who or what the “OP (ES/SAP)” tag refers to, noting that it may denote offices such as the Office of the President, the Executive Secretary, or the Special Assistant to the President rather than specific individuals. The Batangas lawmaker said based on the files he has, about 60 percent of the projects under the “OP (ES/ SAP)” tag involved flood control and slope protection works, while the remaining 40 percent consisted of street lighting projects. “I shared this because other media reports have discussed this as well, so that the public can have a whole picture of the list and help them scrutinize the projects and other information that might help in investigations that our senators and congressmen may conduct in 2026,” he said in a Facebook post. In a separate post yesterday, Leviste said he will “refrain from speaking for now, except on things I need to answer or I must say.” “It’s good since there is still time to rest as Congress will resume session on January 26,” he added. Earlier, former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin also denied Leviste’s claims, saying he “did not request, endorse, approve, or authorize any DPWH project or budget allocation at any stage

of the budget process.” “I am aghast and outraged at the insinuation that the tag ‘ES’ found in the so-called Cabral Files pertained to me as the then Executive Secretary to whom was allocated P8.3 billion worth of DPWH projects under the GAA 2025,” he said in a statement. DPWH personnel also belied Leviste’s statement that the late public works Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral gave him a copy of the list, saying the lawmaker forcibly took documents and copied files from her office. Several public works personnel told GMA News that Cabral even sustained paper cuts and bled after Leviste allegedly took the documents from her hand. The narrative of the DPWH matched the statement of DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon earlier who said Leviste appeared to be throwing his weight around when he went to Cabral’s office. Dizon said that while he authorized the release of a copy of the legislative district breakdown for DPWH’s 2026 proposed budget, he did not approve the forcible taking of Cabral’s file. “I authorized the release of the legislative district breakdown, absolutely. But (Leviste’s) stealing of files from the computer—that had no imprimatur. As for him struggling over papers with Cabral, that had no imprimatur. Why would I give that imprimatur?” Dizon said the documents from Cabral’s office are already with the Office of the Ombudsman

killed in a shooting incident at an acupuncture clinic in General Santos City. According to reports, the assailant entered the clinic and opened fire, then fled the scene aboard a motorcycle. Another fatal shooting occurred on July 21 in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, where Erwin “Boy Pana” L. Segovia, 63, a commentator for Barangay Radio 98.1, was gunned down by unidentified motorcycle-riding assailants. On October 20, Noel Bellen Samar, 54, a reporter for Kadunong Internet TV and DWIZ sustained four gunshot wounds while riding his motorcycle along Maharlika Highway in Guinobatan, Albay from an unidentified individua. He died the following day at the hospital. The most recent case was reported on December 6, when Gerry S. Campos, who served as a director of Radio Mindanao Network in Butuan City and was manager of Radyo Serbato in Butuan City before he won a seat in Marihatag municipal council, was fatally stabbed on Saturday, while walking near a gasoline station in Barangay Sta. Cruz. With AFP

possible disasters, provincial authorities on Thursday imposed several restrictions around the volcano.All human activities are strictly prohibited within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), including mountain climbing, orchid picking, and vegetable harvesting. Tourist-related activities were also curtailed, with all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides allowed only within the Cagsawa Ruins area, while operations in other locations are temporarily suspended.A no-fly zone was declared directly above Mayon Volcano, and access to Mayon Skyline has been temporarily closed until further notice. The Philippine National Police, through the Albay Police Provincial Office, was directed to strictly enforce the restrictions in close coordination with concerned local government units. Meanwhile, all city, municipal, and barangay disaster risk reduction and management councils surrounding Mayon were placed on preparedness and monitoring status. They were instructed to remain on heightened alert, closely coordinate with authorities, and mobilize resources as necessary. The provincial government also urged the public to remain vigilant and rely only on official updates and further advisories from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and local authorities. Governor Noel Ebriega Rosal said the measures are precautionary and aimed at minimizing risks to communities amid Mayon’s renewed volcanic activity. The northeast monsoon is affecting Northern and Central Luzon, the shear line is affecting Southern Luzon, and easterlies are affecting the rest of the country.

ful implementation of security plans, noting that no serious threats or significant incidents were recorded before and during the celebrations, particularly in major urban areas. “I commend all our personnel on the ground for successfully implementing our security plan, which led to a peaceful and orderly New Year celebration across the country,” Nartatez said. He added that close coordination with local government units and other agencies played a key role in maintaining peace and order and responding to public safety concerns.While there were some firecracker-related injuries, Nartatez said police units responded immediately, and the campaign against illegal fireworks yielded positive results. “We saw a higher level of public compliance. Many communities opted for organized and LGU-led fireworks displays,” he said, adding that inspections,

checkpoints, and confiscation operations reduced the circulation of prohibited firecrackers. The PNP also noted high compliance with the ban on indiscriminate firing, with fewer incidents recorded compared to previous years and reported cases promptly investigated under a zero-tolerance policy. Nartatez underscored the importance of public cooperation, thanking citizens for following safety guidelines and reporting incidents. He said intelligencedriven operations against illegal fireworks will continue beyond the holiday season, with police presence sustained in transport hubs, business districts, and tourist areas. “Everyone’s safety is our responsibility. Let us continue to choose safe and orderly ways of celebrating, not only during the New Year but throughout the year,” he said.

partnership between the Philippines and Taiwan and marks an important step toward more ethical, transparent, and centered recruitment,” the statement read. According to the statement, MECO plans to coordinate closely with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW),

‘Nazareno’... From A1

SAP... From A1

leading up to the feast of the Jesus Nazareno on Jan. 9. “This is the visit of the image of Jesus Nazareno to the communities under the pastoral care of the Quiapo Church, also known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno,” the church said. The visitation will begin on New Year’s Day, with Barangay 309 as the first stop following a procession at 2 p.m. On Jan. 2, the image will visit Barangays 308, 306, 307, and 385, where an overnight vigil will be held. Barangays 387, 383, 388, 385, and 386 are scheduled to receive the most revered icon on Jan. 3. The image will then visit Barangays 390, 389, and 392 on Jan. 4. An overnight vigil will be observed in Barangays 391 and 394 on Jan. 5. On the final day, Jan. 6, the image will visit Barangays 393 and 394 before being brought back to Quiapo Church in a concluding procession. The annual feast typically draws millions of devotees. The highlight of the celebration is the Traslacion, the traditional procession of the image from the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta to the Minor Basilica of Jesus Nazareno along Quezon Blvd. on the feast day. Catholic Church officials reminded the faithful to be inspired by the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In separate New Year’s messages, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula and Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Gilbert Garcera urged Filipino Catholics to follow Mary’s example and welcome the new year with a trusting heart. “We believe in God who walks with us and remains faithful to us. We turn to Mary, the Holy Mother of God. She did not have clear answers when she said yes to the message of the Angel,” the head of the Archdiocese of Manila said. He added that the Virgin Mary did not understand what was happening, but she gave her trust in God. “She did not fully understand what was happening in her young life. But she trusted. She pondered and kept everything in her heart. Like Mary, let us face the New Year not with answers and solutions but with courage and faith,” said Advincula. “We welcome 2026 with the heart of Mary - open to mystery, attentive in discernment, questioning without fear, and anchored in trust. We place ourselves, our families, and our country in the loving and merciful heart of God.”

authority to identify, prioritize or execute public works projects. “Any claim or insinuation suggesting otherwise is unfounded, false, and misleading,” Lagdameo said. Lagdameo said invoking the name of the SAP to suggest influence, involvement, or endorsement where none exists is “improper, irresponsible, and must stop.” “Overeagerness to exact accountability cannot justify recklessness,” he said, adding that the OSAP is prepared to cooperate with any inquiry conducted in the proper forum, grounded in evidence and guided by the constitutional principles of due process. Malacañang, for its part, also urged the public to exercise caution regarding Leviste’s claims. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said while the documents’ authenticity is already under review by the Office of the Ombudsman, the emergence of conflicting versions highlights the risk of relying on unverified material. “Stories without solid evidentiary support will remain mere rumors. Let us wait for the Office of the Ombudsman to speak on this,” Castro said. Citing Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano, Castro said documents “in the hands of private individuals that can be edited” cannot be considered conclu-

for our colleagues,” IFJ general secretary Anthony Bellanger told Agence France Presse (AFP). The press group voiced particular alarm over the situation in the Palestinian territories, where it recorded 56 media professionals killed in 2025 as Israel’s war with Hamas ground on in Gaza. “We’ve never seen anything like this: so many deaths in such a short time, in such a small area,” Bellanger said. Journalists were also killed in Yemen, Ukraine, Sudan, Peru, India and elsewhere. Bellanger condemned what he called “impunity” for those behind the attacks. “Without justice, it allows the killers of journalists to thrive,” he warned. China topped anew the list as the worst jailer of reporters with 143 behind bars, including in Hong Kong, where authorities have been criticized by Western nations for imposing national security laws quashing dissent.

The IFJ’s count for the number of journalists killed is typically far higher than that of Reporters Without Borders, due to different counting methods. This year’s IFJ toll also included nine accidental deaths. Reporters Without Borders said 67 journalists were killed in the course of their work this year, while UNESCO puts the figure at 93. Among the murder victims in the Philippines was Juan “Johnny” Dayang, 89, a veteran media executive and former president of the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc.. Dayang was shot dead inside his home in Kalibo, Aklan, on April 29. Dayang, who also served as mayor of Kalibo during the administration of former President Corazon Aquino, was watching television and drinking tea when a gunman walked up to him and fired three times, hitting him in the neck and back. On June 23, Ali Macalintal, a transgender woman and former radio broadcaster for RPN-DXDX, was also

Firecracker... From A1

instantly in an explosion in Manila and concern for the younger companion who survived but remains hospitalized with serious eye injuries. He questioned the lack of immediate answers and accountability from authorities, stressing that the severity of the blast showed the device involved was capable of causing fatal dismemberment rather than minor injury. “PNP, what is the update? These explosives can be considered bombs, capable of tearing a child’s body apart. What action are our protectors taking?” Padilla asked. The senator’s call followed a fatal incident Sunday night in Tondo, Manila, where two boys were reportedly holding a firecracker that suddenly detonated while they were seated along a sidewalk. A tricycle driver who passed the area around 8:23 p.m. reportedly noticed the children moments before the explosion

along A. Lorenzo Street near the corner of Jose Abad Santos Avenue. Investigators said the blast was strong enough to be captured on a nearby closed-circuit television camera operated by Barangay 224. One of the boys was declared dead at the scene, while his companion was rushed to a nearby hospital where doctors said surgery would be required due to the extent of the injuries. Barangay officials said the exact type of firecracker involved has yet to be identified, raising concerns over the circulation of unidentified or possibly homemade explosive devices. At the same time, the Philippine National Police reported a generally peaceful and orderly New Year celebration nationwide, crediting heightened security measures and public cooperation. PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended police commanders and personnel for the success-

surveillance continues through Jan. 5. Thhe DOH urged the public to immediately seek hospital treatment for burns or wounds caused by fireworks to prevent serious infections, warning that untreated injuries raise the risk of tetanus, which can be fatal without timely medical care. All reported cases were gathered from 62 sentinel hospitals nationwide. Meanwhile, Senator Robin Padilla condemned the growing danger posed by powerful firecrackers, saying devices once seen as harmless novelties have effectively become explosives that should subject manufacturers, sellers, carriers, and users to criminal prosecution. Padilla expressed condolences to the family of a 12-year-old boy who died

Yuri, despite being born prematurely at seven months old, is healthy, doctors said. Dalen, for her part, said: “I am so happy. I am speechless. I hope she is healthy growing up.” According to senior hospital officer Dr. Luis Legaspi, Fabella admitted 25 pregnant women – lower than the usual daily average of 40 to 50 admissions – on December 31. Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed the country logged 416,388 births in 2025 as of Sept. 30, continuing a trend of declining live births. Provisional data pointed to a 6.3 percent drop in live births in 2024 with 1,357,203 babies born compared to 1,448,522 live births in 2023. PSA said 2024 marked the second consecutive year of decline in live births in the country after a brief rebound in 2022, which saw the first rise in births since the COVID-19 pandemic. Calabarzon accounted for the largest share of births in 2024 with 205,212 or 15.1 percent of the national total, followed by the National Capital Region at 152,506 or 11.2 percent, while the Cordillera Administrative Region recorded the fewest at 23,598 or 1.7 percent. The PSA said 704,798 male and 652,405 female babies were born in 2024, compared with 753,332 males and 695,190 females the previous year. The figures include overseas Filipinos as well as foreign nationals born in the country.

the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and relevant agencies in Taiwan to ensure that the new system genuinely protects the rights and welfare of Filipino workers while also addressing Taiwan’s legitimate labor needs. “We are committed to supporting the development of clear, fair, and accessible procedures for both employers and workers ahead of the start of applications in January 2026,” it added. Avecilla-Padiernos also expressed optimism for continued cooperation with Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor (MOL), emphasizing the importance of refining the operational details of the

In a statement released on December 30, MECO Chairperson and Resident Representative Corazon Avecilla-Padiernos noted that this initiative reflects the growing partnership between the two countries. “This initiative reflects the growing

128 journos... From A1

Fabella... From A1

Mayon... From A1

President Marcos Jr. delivers for every Filipino at home and abroad

A YEAR OF BOLD LEADERSHIP, LIFE-CHANGING SERVICE, AND ROBUST RESILIENCE

I

n 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. transformed challenges into triumphs, proving that true leadership means action, accountability, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Filipino people. The President was at the forefront of reforms to fight systemic corruption and strengthen the foundation of good governance. From rooting out corruption to bolstering resilience, his administration redefined good governance, ensuring no Filipino is left behind. JUSTICE IN ACTION

In his powerful fourth State of the Nation Address on July 28, he thundered, “Mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Pilipino!” condemning anomalous flood-control projects and demanding transparency and holding those responsible to account. He launched the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website and DPWH Transparency Portal, empowering citizens to assess projects in their area and report irregularities. He also conducted inspections of flood control projects. To probe a decade of fund misuse and exact accountability, the President established the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). The President realigned budgets, pursued recovery of stolen funds, and backed Ombudsman charges and arrests. PROMISE FULFILLED: ₱20 BIGAS TO REACH 15-M FAMILIES The nationwide rollout of the Benteng Bigas Meron Na program, a fulfillment of the President’s campaign promise, will reach 15 million households by 2026. The flagship food-security program, will not only benefit vulnerable sectors, but increase access to affordable rice and support palay farmgate prices. To modernize farming and increase farmer incomes. the government distributed fertilizer and farm machinery, set fair floor prices for palay, suspended rice importation during harvest season, and invested in agri-processing and fish ports infrastructure.

QUICK AND EFFICIENT RESPONSE

When disasters struck, President Marcos led with empathy and efficiency. Strong typhoons and powerful earthquakes tested the nation’s resolve. Mobilizing agencies for swift relief, he ensured food, supplies, and aid reached the affected population. Personally visiting Cebu, Catanduanes, Albay, Negros Occidental, and other hardest hit localities, he worked with local government officials to aid the vulnerable and make sure the delivery of government assistance stayed unhampered. PBBM launched Oplan Kontra Baha in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Bacolod—clearing waterways through multi-stakeholder cooperation to combat chronic flooding. This hands-on approach built not just recovery, but lasting resilience for safer communities. IMPROVING DAILY LIFE FOR MILLIONS Health and education soared under President Marcos’ reforms. With zero-balance billing, over one million Filipinos accessed free hospital care in DOH hospitals, ensuring delivery of muchneeded health care and easing financial woes of patients. PhilHealth packages were expanded, while Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) caravans and Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service (BUCAS) centers delivered outpatient services nationwide. In education, the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) recognized work experience and training for degrees. The administration distributed laptops and provided satellite internet to remote schools; refined K-12; added teaching posts; and improved teacher welfare. Scholarships for higher education grew, with transport discounts lightening family burdens—empowering the next generation to thrive. Regular conduct of job fairs helped bring the workforce closer to their potential employers. Partnership with the private sector ensured that the skills of our workforce remain responsive to the requirements of the industries. Social protection flourished through inclusive initiatives. Job fairs; fare discounts for students, seniors, and families; plus e-shuttles for PWDs improved daily life. SSS pension reforms, workers’ rights protection, 4Ps expansion, and AKSYON Fund for OFWs provided vital support. Digital leaps like the eGovPH Super App, Serbisyo Hubs, Free Wi-Fi sites, and cybersecurity safeguards made services accessible. Reviving Dalian trains for MRT-3, upgrading airports, and household electrification fueled economic growth. The OFW Serbisyo Caravan, led by the President and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos in 11 world cities, offered one-stop aid for migrant Filipinos—honoring their sacrifices. ENSURING PEACE AND SECURITY Security and peace and order improved with full military support, modernization, and anticrime measures that preserve human dignity. Heightened patrols and anti-illegal drug operations confiscated volumes rivaling the previous administration’s six-year total—with fatalities a mere fraction, emphasizing efficiency over force. Pay hikes and subsistence allowances for uniformed personnel and military ensured their welfare. President Marcos reaffirmed our ties with partners in the Asia Pacific region, and advanced the nation’s interest in multilateral platforms such as the ASEAN and APEC. Launching the Philippines’ ASEAN 2026 Chairship in November under “Navigating our Future, Together,” he championed peace, prosperity, and empowerment. 2025 under President Marcos wasn’t just progress—it was a pledge being fulfilled. Through accountability, resilience, and inclusive reforms, he delivered tangible change, building a stronger, united Philippines for all. Join the momentum; a brighter future awaits!

NEWS

A4

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

FDA reports 2025 milestones, reforms enforcement plans By Ram Superable THE Food and Drug Administration (FDA) capped 2025 with a year-end report on Thursday, highlighting reforms, enforcement gains, and expanded collaboration aimed at improving access to safe health products while strengthening public trust in regulation. The agency said its reform agenda focused on fixing systems that shape daily interactions with regulators, emphasizing clarity, responsiveness, and fairness without compromising science-based standards. “Public health is a shared responsibility, and protecting it takes more than one agency working alone. Through inter-agency cordination, stakeholder dialogues, and platforms such as Coffee Meetings and Public Dialogues, the FDA opened more spaces for collaboration, listening, and shared action,” it said. One major milestone was the opening of the Food and Drug Action Center, which consolidated frontline services and provided a more accessible venue for guidance, inquiries, and regulatory assistance. To ease the burden on stakeholders while systems were being strengthened, the FDA temporarily suspended selected fees and rolled out targeted support for micro, small, and medium enterprises, as well as local manufacturers. The agency also pushed forward with digital transformation, upgrading payment and processing platforms to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in regulatory transactions. These reforms were supported by sustained information campaigns, media engagements, and stakeholder briefings.

LIGHTS IN LUNETA. Parkgoers watch fireworks at Luneta Park in Manila as they welcome the New Year. Norman Cruz

DFA advances diplomatic priorities to address challenges Vice mayor dies IN BRIEF from injuries after T accidental shooting C

Philippine Navy inducts hundreds of new sailors

The Philippine Navy formally inducted hundreds of new sailors following the oath-taking and turnover ceremony of Sailor Basic Course (SBC) Classes 76 and 77, supervised by the Navy Personnel Management Center. SBC Class 76 is composed of 469 candidates, including 47 women and 422 men, while SBC Class 77 is a special enlistment class of 188 skilled personnel who have previously rendered service to the Navy. The ceremony marked the official entry of the new sailors into active naval service after completing their required training. During the event, an inspirational message was delivered to the newly inducted personnel, emphasizing the responsibilities that come with naval service. Rex Espiritu

By Katrina Manubay

HE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported that it engaged with bilateral, regional, and multilateral partners from July to December 2025 as part of its efforts to address shared challenges and promote the Philippines’ diplomatic priorities.

In a year-end report, the DFA highlighted its diplomatic activities, focusing on protecting national interests and fostering an international environment favorable to the Philippines and its citizens. In July, the DFA underwent a leadership change, with Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro succeeding Enrique Manalo, who is now the Philippine permanent representative to the United Nations in New York. “The Department of Foreign Affairs,

under the leadership of Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, actively pursued the Philippines’ diplomatic agenda, working with its bilateral, regional, and multilateral partners in addressing common challenges and maximizing shared opportunities,” the DFA said. The report emphasized the department’s ongoing commitment to addressing the rights, welfare, and safety of Filipinos overseas. “From July to December 2025, the department was at the forefront of protect-

ing our national interests and promoting an international environment that is friendly to the Philippines and the Filipino people,” it added. It noted that the DFA successfully facilitated the safe return of about 700 Filipinos from scam hubs in mainland Southeast Asia throughout the year, including those lured into work in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. In December, the DFA announced the release of nine Filipino seafarers from the M/V Eternity C, who had been taken hostage by the Houthis in the Red Sea. The report highlighted ministerial and high-level engagements with bilateral partners, emphasizing the importance of fostering closer relations. In September, Secretary Lazaro joined global leaders at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, reaffirming the Philippines’ strong commitment to multilateralism and its dedication to the UN Charter.

Zero crime in Davao del Norte during New Year THE Davao del Norte Police Office reported zero crime incidents during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations. Provincial Director Col. Glenn Cristines said the peaceful observance of the holidays reflected the effectiveness of the police force’s intensified crime prevention campaign. He attributed the result to thorough preparation, effective security deployment, and the strong cooperation between police personnel, the community, and partner agencies. Cristines said he personally inspected security coverage in various parts of the province to ensure the readiness, discipline, and alertness of deployed officers. He thanked police personnel for their sacrifices and encouraged them to embrace the new year as an opportunity to strengthen discipline, accountability, and community partnership in sustaining peace and order. Cherrie Anne Villahermosa

PNP-HPG seizes P1.5b illicit cigarettes in Malabon A ROUTINE law enforcement sweep by the Philippine National Police– Highway Patrol Group on New Year’s Eve led to the seizure of unregistered cigarettes worth about ₱1.5 billion in Malabon City. The operation took place at around 10:30 p.m. on December 31 along M.H. Del Pilar Avenue, where two motorcycle riders without helmets ignored police orders to stop, triggering a hot pursuit. The suspects were cornered inside a logistics facility, where authorities discovered 18 containers stacked with imported cigarettes lacking proper documentation. Three Filipino men, aged 31, 44, and 47, were arrested in connection with the seized goods, while one motorcycle rider was issued a citation for traffic violations. Vince Lopez

CHARITY. Volunteers distribute relief food bags to residents and street dwellers along C.M. Recto near Divisoria in Manila on January 1, 2026, as part of a charity drive. Norman Cruz

By Vince Lopez VICE Mayor Aimee Paz Lamasan of Dueñas town, Iloilo died on Wednesday, December 31, after accidentally shooting herself in the stomach. In a Facebook post, Dueñas Mayor Robert Martin Pama confirmed the incident and paid tribute to Lamasan. “There are no goodbyes between us. See you in the next life. I know we will still be together. Rest in peace, my beloved vice mayor,” Pama wrote. Lamasan reportedly shot herself at her residence in Barangay Tabuc Suba, La Paz, Iloilo City on Tuesday morning, December 30. Police Colonel Kim Legada, head of the Iloilo City Police Office, said the incident occurred at around 7 a.m. and was reported after Lamasan was taken to the hospital. Based on initial investigation, Lamasan was about to place her 9mm pistol into her bag when the firearm accidentally discharged and struck her in the dining area of the house. She was preparing to travel back to Dueñas at the time. Lamasan was rushed to the hospital and underwent surgery to remove the bullet from the right side of her stomach but later succumbed to her injuries.

Major airports log nearly 1m passengers daily during holidays By Joel E. Zurbano MAJOR airports across the country recorded nearly one million passengers daily during the holiday season, with Manila airport alone accommodating an average of around 160,000 to 170,000 passengers each day. Despite the surge in air travelers, the Philippine National Police–Aviation Security Group, in close coordination with airport authorities, maintained a safe, orderly, and secure aviation environment, particularly at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. “In light of this consistently high passenger volume, our law enforcement personnel exhibited unwavering vigilance and professionalism in safeguarding the safety and security of passen-

gers, airport staff, and their families,” said PNP-Aviation Security Group Director Brig. Gen. Dionisio Bartolome Jr. Bartolome said additional personnel were strategically deployed to NAIA and other major airports to bolster security measures. “This reinforcement was intended to enhance operational efficiency, improve passenger assistance, and ensure a swift response to any security concerns during the holiday rush,” he added. Bartolome said that through an elevated security posture, intelligencedriven operations, and strong interagency collaboration, Aviation Security Group personnel successfully mitigated potential aviation security threats while facilitating the smooth and safe transit of holiday travelers nationwide.

NEW SAILORS. The Philippine Navy inducts new sailors during the oath-taking and turnover ceremony supervised by the Navy Personnel Management Center.

OPINION

A5

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Choosing a better 2026

IN CHAPTER 4 of Dilexi Te, Pope Leo XIV reminds us of a truth that is both simple and demanding. Faith cannot be separated from love, especially love for the poor. Belief that remains abstract or confined to prayer is incomplete. Authentic discipleship is lived. It recognizes Christ in the sick, the migrant, and those pushed to the margins. To follow Jesus is not only to believe but to stand with those who struggle, to share their burdens, and to defend their dignity. As we enter 2026, this message speaks directly to the Philippines. In the year ahead, this calls us to defend the dignity of women and children, ensure access to education and healthcare, protect farmers, workers, indigenous peoples, and the urban poor, and resist every form of exclusion. Love is not charity alone.

—“—

Justice cannot flourish where corruption continues unchecked It is a commitment to justice and equality. Justice, however, cannot flourish where corruption continues unchecked. When public resources are stolen, it is the poor who suffer first and most deeply. A just Philippines will remain out of reach unless corruption is confronted with courage. The struggle unfolding in Marihangin Island in southern Palawan is a reminder of what it means to stand with the marginalized. Members of the Molbog Indigenous community are resisting displacement driven by tourism and conservation projects that claim to protect nature while excluding the very people who have long safeguarded the land and sea. What is being presented as development or environmental protection has, for the Molbog, meant threats to their homes, livelihoods, and ancestral waters. Their fight exposes a familiar injustice: policies made without genuine consent, protection invoked without participation, and progress measured without dignity. To stand with Marihangin is to affirm that climate action, conservation, and development must never come at the expense of Indigenous Peoples, and that love for creation cannot be separated from love for those who live closest to it. Recently, I have called for the acquittal of the Talaingod 13, a case that grew out of a 2018 humanitarian evacuation of Lumad students and teachers from Talaingod, Davao del Norte, at a time of military operations, school closures, and

EDITORIAL

mounting threats to community safety. Among those charged were former Bayan Muna representative Satur Ocampo, ACT Teachers representative France Castro, and Lumad school administrator Meggie Nolasco, together with other teachers, church workers, and volunteers. Although prosecutors initially floated accusations such as kidnapping and trafficking, the case that reached judgment was limited to child abuse and endangerment under Section 10(a) of RA 7610. In 2024, the Regional Trial Court in Tagum City convicted the accused, ruling that bringing the children to temporary shelters in Davao and Cebu exposed them to danger, while discounting evidence of parental consent, humanitarian purpose, and the context of forced displacement. The Court of Appeals later affirmed the conviction, largely deferring to the RTC’s factual findings and failing to seriously engage with the reality of conflict-driven evacuation, Constitutional protections for children and Indigenous Peoples, and the principle that humanitarian action should not be treated as a crime. Together, the RTC and CA decisions exemplify a formalistic and punitive approach that ignored context, minimized the realities of displacement, and transformed acts of care and protection into crimes. As a result of this advocacy, I was redtagged by Mr. Antonio Parlade. He also redtagged the people I defended. This was not the first time he (and others in his group) has charged me with being sympathetic with the communists. He has of course no credibility as even his peers in the military have rejected his mindset. I know because I have taught and mentored many AFP and PNP officials, including generals. They know where I stand. For the record, I strongly believe that peace must also be at the center of our national renewal. For sure, the pursuit of peace with the CPP-NDFP-NPA requires courage and honesty. Ending decades of armed conflict demands addressing the roots of rebellion, inequality, landlessness, and exclusion, while rejecting violence and protecting civilian lives. Peace is not weakness. It is a moral choice grounded in justice. The challenges before the country remain serious. There will be no better 2026 unless love confronts injustice, peace defeats violence, and accountability ends impunity. Facebook, X, Instagram and Blue Sky: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com

Is the proposed 2026 national budget acceptable? WHAT we know about the proposed 2026 Philippine national budget is limited pending its approval by the Chief Executive this month. But we do know at this point is what is publicly known about it and how it is being received, including the major political context around transparency and corruption concerns. The proposed national budget for fiscal year 2026 is ₱6.793 trillion. This represents about 22 percent of GDP and is larger than the 2025 budget, reflecting inflation pressures, higher debt servicing costs, and political demands for increased local spending. Education is reportedly the top allocation, with the largest funding share in Philippine history (over ₱1 trillion). Defense, infrastructure, health, and other departments also receive significant increases. After intense bicameral negotiations under high public scrutiny, the bicameral committee cleared the final budget for ratification on Dec. 28, 2025. The plan is to transmit it to the President for signature in early January, meaning the government may start 2026 on a reenacted budget for about a week.

Independent analysts project the 2026 deficit may be slightly wider than government targets, and financing will rely on a combination of revenue and borrowing. The 2026 budget conversations have been highly politicized, largely due to scandals tied to the 2025 budget and alleged infrastructure corruption. This has shaped how stakeholders view the 2026 proposal. Senate leaders and some lawmakers argue the budget contains structural improvements to reduce corruption risks. For example, a long-standing corruption loophole in unprogrammed appropriations, historically used for lump-sum allocations that critics say facilitated ghost projects, has reportedly been removed. Progressive groups and some legislators claim the budget still contains significant politically directed allocations, including presidential and congressional “pork” funds; expanded Local Government Support Fund and other lump-sum financial assistance funds viewed as opaque or susceptible to politicized spending; and nearly ₱12 billion in confidential and intelligence ManilaStandard

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www.manilastandard.net

ONLINE

can be accessed at: manilastandard.net

MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

Wish list 2026: Social and foreign policy agenda

T

O CONTINUE our wish list for this year, we focus on the social agenda that includes welfare, inclusion, and resilience.

national disaster preparedness upgrades, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure standards; community-based climate adaptation and sustainability programs; and integrated risk financing mechanisms to support recovery after extreme events.

Government should expand social safety nets and human capital investments. Social services must be resilient and equitable amid \\social protection through 4Ps, ensuring coverage for low-income and vulnerable sectors. We also suggest increased budget allocations to healthcare, education, and nutrition programs aligned with demographic needs. Government must improve digital and physical connectivity. Legislation such as the Konektadong Pinoy Act should be operationalized to: reduce internet costs and improve digital access in rural and underserved regions; and leverage connectivity to support e-learning, telehealth, and digital entrepreneurship. Authorities should likewise strengthen disaster risk management and climate resilience. Given frequent typhoons and flooding, 2026 should prioritize:

Authorities should likewise strengthen disaster risk management and climate resilience

—“—

The administration’s foreign policy Agenda should cover security, strategic partnerships, and trade. Government must clarify its strategic posture in the West Philippine Sea. Ongoing disputes necessitate a calibrated yet firm approach; articulate a consistent policy that balances diplomatic engagement with defense preparedness; strengthen multilateral cooperation with ASEAN partners and external allies to uphold international law. We also need to deepen alliances and strategic partnerships.

Public sentiment favors external partnerships to manage security challenges, particularly with the United States. Initiatives should include regular joint exercises and capacity building with treaty allies; expanded defense diplomacy with regional partners including Japan, Australia, and ASEAN to diversify security cooperation; and continued engagement in regional forums such as ASEAN and APEC to reaffirm multilateralism. The Marcos Jr. administration should also accelerate trade integration and market diversification to boost resilience. Part of this should be active pursuit of comprehensive trade agreements to expand export markets; and trade facilitation reforms to ease logistics and customs processes. A strategic wish list for the Philippines in 2026 must be grounded in the lessons of 2025: economic resilience requires credible governance; inclusive social policy strengthens stability; and a balanced foreign policy enhances national security and prosperity. Concerted action in these areas will enhance confidence at home and abroad, positioning the Philippines to navigate regional uncertainties while promoting sustained growth and equity.

When branding loses the plot —“— Never outshine the product you are selling

By Dindo Danao AS ONE who has spent years in marketing and brand development, I see the current controversy involving Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco not as a political issue – but as a communications breakdown that should never have happened. Let me be blunt: the DOT needs an honest-to-goodness communications strategist or senior brand consultant— someone empowered to say no when executions drift away from brand fundamentals. Because what we are seeing now is another Frasco fiasco, one that was entirely avoidable. Branding is not about visibility. It is about discipline. In tourism marketing, the product is the destination—not the official, not the department head, not the campaign architect. When a government tourism material places the secretary’s image at the center, it violates a basic branding rule: never outshine the product you are selling. What makes this episode more damaging is context. Netizens have long memories. They still recall the earlier controversy involving foreign stock

—“—

The 2026 national budget has unique features compared to previous years funds criticized for lacking transparency and accountability mechanisms. Other critics contend that despite reform rhetoric, the deeper “pork system” persists, which they see as continuing the conditions that allow corruption. But Executive officials maintain the budget process has been more transparent than past years, including livestreamed bicameral committee sessions to allow public observation. Sen. Panfilo Lacson has urged continued public vigilance once the budget is implemented, emphasizing

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

footage used in a thematic tourism television commercial – an incident that triggered public scrutiny, professional embarrassment, and questions about authenticity. That episode should have been a hard lesson in brand governance. Instead, we are seeing a pattern. From a marketing standpoint, this is not about intent or effort. It is about process failure: No credible brand gatekeeper No independent creative check No strategist asking, “What will the audience think?” In the private sector, this would not pass a brand review. In multinational campaigns, senior strategists exist precisely to protect brands from self-inflicted damage. Government communications should be held to the same—if not higher— standard, because public trust is the currency at stake. Filipino audiences are brand-savvy. They understand visual hierarchy. They immediately sense when a campaign slides from destination storytelling into personality projection. Once that perception sets in, no amount of post-facto explanation can undo the damage.

The narrative hardens. Credibility erodes. This is why the “epal” backlash matters. It is not mere noise. It is market feedback—raw, unfiltered, and brutally honest. In branding, feedback ignored becomes crisis repeated. If the Department of Tourism wants to protect both its institutional credibility and its long-term brand equity, the solution is clear: Separate governance from promotion. Remove personalities from campaign assets. Restore destination-first storytelling. And bring in professionals who are empowered to challenge bad calls. Branding, after all, is not about who is seen. It is about what is remembered. Right now, what the public remembers is not the destination—but the distraction.

oversight as crucial to preventing misuse. Some House leaders claim there were no insertions and the process was open, though opponents dispute this. Is the 2026 budget likely acceptable given past corruption? Those who say it could be more acceptable cite the removal of at least one major source of past abuse— unprogrammed funds—may reduce certain corruption risks.

systemic issues that fueled past corruption scandals, especially those involving infrastructure project irregularities. Without stronger auditing and enforcement mechanisms, “reform” may be superficial rather than structural. The 2026 national budget has unique features compared to previous years, including a larger allocation framework, more public scrutiny during bicameral deliberations, and some modifications intended to reduce corruption risks. However, significant skepticism remains among watchdogs, opposition lawmakers, and civil society organizations regarding whether the budget truly addresses the systemic issues that have marred prior budgets. The ultimate acceptability will depend not only on the enacted law but on how effectively monitoring, implementation, and enforcement mechanisms are applied once the budget goes into effect. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Increased transparency during bicameral deliberations represents a procedural improvement compared to historical practice. Some senators and lawmakers have publicly committed to oversight and accountability. Others insist that significant discretionary funds still exist that could be diverted or abused due to weak controls. Civil society groups describe the budget as perpetuating the same

(The writer, who holds an MBA from National College of Business and Arts, is a public relations and media affairs professional, author, and consultant currently serving as a senior adviser at the Stratbase Albert Del Rosario Institute.)

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Joyce Pangco Pañares Managing Editor Virgilio DC Galvez News Editor Miguel Gil City Editor

Honor Blanco Cabie Opinion Editor Aytch dela Cruz Online Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

WORLD

A6

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Taiwan’s Lai vows to ‘defend’ sovereignty after China drills TAIPEI – Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te vowed on Thursday to defend the democratic island’s sovereignty in a New Year’s speech, after China carried out military drills. Beijing launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels this week to encircle Taiwan’s main island, in exercises condemned by Taipei “as highly provocative”. China claims democratic Taiwan is part of its territory and has threatened to use force to annex it. “My stance has always been clear: to steadfastly defend national sovereignty, strengthen national defense and wholeof-society resilience, comprehensively establish effective deterrence capabilities, and build robust democratic defense mechanisms,” Lai said in a televised address from the Presidential Office. Lai said the government would “build a safer and more resilient Taiwan”, a day after China declared it had completed the drills around the island. “In the face of China’s escalating expansionist ambitions, the international community is closely watching whether the people of Taiwan have the determination to defend themselves,” Lai added. China’s show of force follows a bumper round of arms sales to Taipei by the United States, Taiwan’s main security backer, and comments from Japan’s prime minister that the use of force against Taiwan could warrant a military response from Tokyo. AFP

IN BRIEF Mamdani to take over as New York mayor NEW YORK – Zohran Mamdani, the young upstart of the US left, was readying Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) to take over as New York mayor for a term sure to see him cross swords with President Donald Trump. After the clocks strike midnight, bringing in 2026, Mamdani will take his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop, taking the helm of the United States’ largest city. He will be New York’s first Muslim mayor. His office says the understated venue for the swearing-in reflects his commitment to working people, after the 34-year-old Democrat campaigned on promises to address the soaring cost of living. “Our campaign was built around listening to the people of New York, and we will govern in the same way. Tomorrow, we get to work,” Mamdani said Wednesday on X. But it remains to be seen if Mamdani -virtually unknown a year ago -- can deliver on his ambitious agenda, which envisions rent freezes, universal childcare and free public buses. AFP

Kim hails ‘invincible alliance’ with Russia SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has praised his troops fighting abroad as forging an “invincible alliance” with Russia in a new year’s message, state media said Thursday. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to support Russia’s nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine, according to South Korean and Western intelligence agencies. At least 600 have died and thousands more have sustained injuries, according to South Korean estimates. Analysts say North Korea is receiving financial aid, military technology and food and energy supplies from Russia in return. On Thursday Kim praised his men fighting in an “alien land”, congratulating their “heroic” defense of the nation’s honor and instructing them to “be brave”, the staterun Korean Central News Agency said. “As the whole country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere of greeting the new year, I all the more miss you, who are fighting bravely on the battlefields in the alien land even at this moment,” he said, according to KCNA. AFP

World welcomes 2026 with fireworks P

ARIS – Revelers around the world toasted the start of 2026 on Thursday, bidding farewell to a volatile year when temperatures soared, US President Donald Trump upended global trade, and the brutal conflict in Ukraine raged on. While a fragile truce took hold in devastated Gaza, violence in Sudan continued unabated. A new American pope was installed at the Vatican, the world lost pioneering zoologist Jane Goodall, and Labubu dolls sparked a worldwide frenzy. In Sydney, partygoers paused for a minute of silence to remember the victims of the mass shooting on Bondi Beach before fireworks lit up the skies at

the stroke of midnight. Heavily armed police patrolled the shoreline, packed with hundreds of thousands of people, barely two weeks after 15 people were gunned down at a Jewish festival in Australia’s deadliest mass shooting for almost 30 years. The famed Sydney Harbor Bridge was bathed in white light to symbolize peace. Pacific nations including Kiribati and New Zealand were the first to see in

beauty salon manager Daria Lushchyk said the war had made her work “hell” but that her clients were still showing up. “Nothing can stop our Ukrainian girls from coming in and getting themselves glam,” Lushchyk said. This year has brought a mix of stress and excitement for many, war for others still -- and a daring jewel heist at the Louvre. Pop megastar Taylor Swift got engaged to her American football player boyfriend Travis Kelce, and K-pop heartthrobs BTS made their long-awaited return. Trump returned as US president in January, launching a tariff blitz that sent global trade and world stock markets into meltdown. AFP

Trump bashes Clooney after he becomes French

PYROTECHNICS AND MORE. Fireworks explode over the Colosseum in central Rome during New Year celebrations on Thursday. Elsewhere, heavily armed police patrolled the shoreline, packed with hundreds of thousands of people, barely two weeks after 15 people were gunned down at a Jewish festival in Australia’s deadliest mass shooting for almost 30 years.Pacific nations including Kiribati and New Zealand were the first to see in 2026, with Seoul, Manila and Tokyo following Sydney in celebrations that make their way around the globe with each passing hour. AFP

Trump withdrawing NG from 3 cities — for now WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump said Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) he was withdrawing National Guard troops from Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland, following a series of legal setbacks over his military deployments in US cities. The Republican had sent troops into several cities run by Democrats during his first year back in power, in what he called a crackdown on illegal immigration and crime. Local leaders slammed the moves as authoritarian overreach and launched

a string of successful legal challenges, with the US Supreme Court last week blocking the Chicago deployment. “We are removing the National Guard from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, despite the fact that CRIME has been greatly reduced by having these great Patriots in those cities, and ONLY by that fact,” Trump said on his Truth Social network. In the message on New Year’s Eve, Trump said the three cities “were GONE if it weren’t for the Federal Government stepping in.”

“We will come back, perhaps in a much different and stronger form, when crime begins to soar again -- Only a question of time!” Trump added. Trump’s deployments of National Guard troops have been a centerpiece of his hardline policies on immigration and crime since returning to the White House in January. The 79-year-old billionaire and former reality star has also sent the National Guard into the capital Washington and to Memphis, Tennessee, and threatened to send them to San Francisco. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Paris was welcome to Hollywood star George Clooney after the actor got French citizenship -- and took the opportunity to bash France, too. Trump, whose administration has backed anti-immigration parties in Europe, said key ally France had a “horrendous” problem with crime and immigration. An official decree seen by AFP on Monday showed that 64-year-old Oscar winner Clooney, his wife Amal Alamuddin Clooney and their two children had become French citizens. “Good News! George and Amal Clooney, two of the worst political prognosticators of all time, have officially become citizens of France which is, sadly, in the midst of a major crime problem because of their absolutely horrendous handling of immigration,” Trump said on his Truth Social network. In one of a string of posts on New Year’s Eve, Trump added that France’s alleged problems were “much like we had under Sleepy Joe Biden,” his Democratic predecessor. “Oceans Eleven” star Clooney is a long-term Democratic supporter and fundraiser, and a vocal critic of Trump. In his social media post, Trump recalled the actor backed Biden during the 2024 US presidential election but then “dumped” him becoming concerned about the Democrat’s age during a fundraising event he hosted. “Clooney got more publicity for politics than he did for his very few, and totally mediocre, movies. He wasn’t a movie star at all, he was just an average guy who complained, constantly, about common sense in politics,” Trump said. Clooney’s newly acquired citizenship has also raised hackles in France. AFP

8 dead in US strikes on alleged drug boats, death toll now 115 WASHINGTON, DC – The US military announced Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) that eight people were killed in strikes on three alleged drug boats in international waters, bringing the death toll in Washington’s campaign against what it says are narcotics traffickers to at least 115. US Southern Command, which is responsible for American forces operating in Central and South America, said the strikes on Tuesday targeted “three narcotrafficking vessels traveling as a convoy.” All three people killed were on one boat. The exact location of the strikes was not immediately made clear. Previous strikes have taken place in the Caribbean or the eastern Pacific. The military said that the targeted vessels were operated by “Designated Terrorist Organizations” that it did not identify.

Accompanying the statement, posted on X, was a video showing three boats traveling together at sea and then hit by a series of explosions. “Three narco-terrorists aboard the first vessel were killed in the first engagement. The remaining narco-terrorists abandoned the other two vessels, jumping overboard and distancing themselves before follow-on engagements sank their respective vessels,” it said. The military said it had notified the Coast Guard to “activate the Search and Rescue system,” without offering more details about the fate of those aboard the other boats. Since September, the US military has carried out more than 30 such strikes on what it says are boats used to smuggle drugs to the United States, without providing any concrete evidence that the targeted boats are involved in trafficking. AFP

ESCALATING CRISIS. Recycling worker Jose Reinaldo Gomez, 50, (left) poses for a picture with his family at their home in the Villa Saman neighborhood in the south of the city of Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela, on Thursday, Manila time. The Central Bank of Venezuela valued the dollar at 301.37 bolivars (Venezuelan currency), a price valid until Jan. 2, representing an increase of 479.25 percent compared to the 52.02 bolivars set by the issuing entity at the beginning of 2025. AFP

Zelenskyy: Deal to end war near but warns vs. rewarding Moscow

Bolsonaro seeks house arrest as jail return looms BRASILIA – Lawyers for Brazil’s far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro asked a court Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) to convert his prison sentence for plotting a coup to house arrest, as he prepared to leave hospital a week after surgery. Doctors earlier said Bolsonaro, 70, can be discharged on New Year’s Day following an operation for a groin hernia. He had the surgery on Christmas Day, followed by another procedure two days later to treat recurring hiccups. In office from 2019 to 2022, the ex-president has for years been dealing with complications from an abdominal stab wound he suffered during a 2018 campaign rally, requiring several major surgeries. In September, Brazil’s Supreme Court found Bolsonaro guilty of conspiring to stay in power after losing 2022 elections to leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. He is serving a 27-year sentence. AFP

2026, with Seoul and Tokyo following Sydney in celebrations that make their way around the globe with each passing hour. In Hong Kong, a major New Year fireworks display was cancelled in homage to 161 people killed in a fire in November that engulfed several apartment blocks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country was “10 percent” away from a deal to end the fighting, soon to reach the four-year mark. Russia’s Vladimir Putin meanwhile used his traditional New Year address to urge his compatriots to believe that Moscow would deliver a victory in Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. In the Ukrainian city of Vyshgorod,

TOUGH ROAD TO PEACE. A pedestrian walks through Saint Volodymyr Hill Park during a snowy day on New Year’s Eve in Kyiv on Wednesday, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In Moscow, President Vladimir Putin urged Russians to believe in victory in Ukraine during his annual New Year’s Eve address, his fourth since the war began. Putin has consistently told his citizens the military intends to seize the rest of Ukrainian land he has proclaimed as Russian by force if talks fail. AFP

KYIV – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said his country was “10 percent” away from a deal to end the war with Russia, but cautioned that the most important issues were unresolved and warned against rewarding Moscow. US-led efforts to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II have gained pace in recent weeks, but both sides remain at odds over the key issue of territory in a post-war settlement. Russia, which occupies around 20 percent of Ukraine, is pushing for full control of the country’s eastern Donbas region as part of a deal -- but Kyiv has warned ceding ground will embolden Moscow. In his New Year’s Eve address, Zelenskyy said his country wanted an end to the war but not at “any cost”, and that any

agreement needed strong security guarantees to deter Russia from invading again. “The peace agreement is 90 percent ready. Ten percent remains. And that is far more than just numbers,” Zelenskyy said in the address, posted on his Telegram account. “Those are the 10 percent that will determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe,” he added. Zelenskyy’s speech came just hours after US officials, including top envoy Steve Witkoff, held a call with Ukrainian and European security advisers on the next steps to end the nearly four-year conflict. The war, now entering its fifth calendar year, has resulted in a tidal wave of destruction that has displaced millions and left entire Ukrainian cities in ruins. AFP

NEWS

A7

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Group urges SEC to closely watch lending companies

HUGE HAUL. Philippine National Police acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., along with Highway Patrol Group director Brig. Gen. Hansel Marantan and Customs deputy commissioner Brig. Gen. Nolasco Bathan (ret.) take stock of some P700 million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized during a raid in Malabon City, Andrew Rabulan

Nartatez wants names in P1.1-b cigarette smuggle bid in Batangas IN BRIEF OPAPRU vows to push peace efforts in 2026 THE Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) on Thursday vowed to exert all efforts to accelerate the Marcos administration’s peace process plan in 2026. “As we step into 2026, the OPAPRU, together with the rest of the Marcos Jr. administration and our staunch peace partners, stand with renewed strength, commitment and determination to push forward the comprehensive Philippine peace process to greater heights,” OPAPRU chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said in his New Year’s message. He also extended his “deepest gratitude” to all peace stakeholders who helped and supported the peace body in all peacebuilding interventions during our remarkable peace journey last year. “The peace dividends that we are now reaping today have been made possible through our collective efforts. It is our hope that this year will once again be filled with milestones as we continue to sustain and build on the gains of peace across our country,” Galvez stressed. Rex Espiritu

C

P

HILIPPINE National Police acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., has ordered a thorough investigation into the smuggling of around P1.1 billion worth of cigarettes which were discovered in Batangas City during an anti-carnapping operation on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Nartatez particularly wanted the identities of those responsible for the smuggling of the cigarettes and for the probers to prepare and file airtight cases against them in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to be tough against smugglers and economic saboteurs. “This case does not end in the confiscation of these smuggled cigarettes. I have already ordered a thorough investigation into this to identify and build strong cases against those responsible for this illegal activity,” said Nartatez who personally went to Batangas City to inspect the confiscated contraband. “Let this operation serve as a sym-

bolic warning of what lies ahead for the Philippine National Police in 2026 against those who continue to violate and disrespect the rule of law in the country,” he added. The operation started when operatives of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG), led by Brig. Gen. Hansel Marantan, located a red car which was reported stolen in Las Piñas City. During the site inspection in Sitio Singko, Balete, Batangas City on Wednesday, the HPG operatives noticed several motor vehicles, including trucks and container vans which later turned out to be containing smuggled cigarettes.

No suspect was arrested during the operation but Nartatez said they are now working with the Bureau of Customs and other concerned agencies to gather more information about the contraband. Follow-up operations are also being conducted by the HPG based on intelligence reports. “These smugglers are robbing the Filipino people of tax and other financial obligations to the national government. Their illegal activities have serious economic impact, and this must be stopped,” said Nartatez. “In this case, we need to identify and run after those responsible considering the enormity of the value of the smuggled cigarettes. We cannot let this just come to pass,” the PNP chief stressed. Nartatez also hailed the integration of modern technology into police investigation and operation as proven by the success of the operation which started when HPG operatives were able to locate the stolen vehicle through Global Positioning System, or GPS.

Army sets up dialogue between MNLF, MILF THE Philippine Army’s 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion (33IB) has initiated a dialogue at its headquarters in Radjah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur as part of continuing overall efforts to promote peace, understanding, and unity within the community. According to the unit, the dialogue brought together Sukarno Ampatuan and Basco Pasawilan from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front. With the support of the Rajah Buayan police station,headed by Capt. Joel Lebrilla, discussions between the two sides were conducted in an orderly and constructive manner. The talks focused on addressing issues and misunderstandings that had previously caused tension in the area. Through open and honest discussions, both parties were able to express their concerns, sentiments, and positions, leading to a clearer understanding of each other’s perspectives. The dialogue emphasized the importance of respecting existing agreements, maintaining peace and order, and avoiding actions that could lead to violence or conflict, the Army said. Rex Espiritu

PPA eases Samar-Leyte logistics travel by sea THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) on Thursday reported a marked improvement in vehicle movement and logistics efficiency in ports near the San Juanico Bridge following interventions to address congestion caused by the bridge’s load limit. In a statement, the PPA said ship calls between the ports of Tacloban and Amandayehan from June to November 2025 totaled 2,632, while 7,256 rolling cargo units or trucks were transported during the period. “As of December 29, 2025, monitoring reports confirm the normalization of traffic conditions, with no truck queues observed along Tacloban Bypass Road and Amandayehan Port,” the PPA said. The improved traffic flow coincided with the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) implementation of a twoway increased load limit on the San Juanico Bridge, allowing vehicles with a gross weight of up to 15 tons to cross starting Dec. 12, 2025.

ACCIDENTAL EXPLOSION. Firefighters survey the aftermath of an accidental fireworks explosion at the Bulanao Public Market in Tabuk Kalinga province that set off a blaze which also razed adjoining pyrotechnic stalls on New Year’s Eve.

A CONSUMER advocacy group has urged the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to closely monitor how lending companies comply with its new memorandum circular on interest rate caps, warning that the real test of the policy will be whether small loans remain accessible to ordinary borrowers in the months ahead. The CitizenWatch Philippines said the newly issued cap on interest and fees for loans of up to ₱10,000 raises important implementation questions that regulators must track carefully, particularly whether formal lenders respond by tightening credit, withdrawing products, or shifting away from small borrowers altogether. “Regulation does not end with issuance. It begins there,” said Orlando Oxales, lead convenor of CitizenWatch Philippines. “The critical question now is how the industry adjusts, and whether borrowers on the margins will still be able to access small, short-term loans through formal channels,” he added. Under the SEC memorandum circular, lenders are required to observe a six- percent monthly nominal interest rate cap and a 10-percent monthly effective interest rate ceiling on small unsecured loans, inclusive of most charges. The policy is intended to strengthen consumer protection and curb abusive lending practices. CitizenWatch also said it supports the goal of protecting borrowers, but stressed that close, data-driven monitoring is needed to detect early warning signs of unintended effects. “Small loans are not the same as larger consumer loans. They involve higher risk, higher servicing costs, and shorter repayment periods,” Oxales pointed out.

DSWD reaffirms pledge to uplift quality of life By Maricel V. Cruz AS the year 2026 begins, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reiterated its commitment in supporting the goal of the Marcos administration to improve the people’s quality of life. “We remain committed to strengthening social protection programs, expanding poverty alleviation services, and enhancing community resilience to ensure improved well-being for all Filipino families,” said DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao. Dumlao issued the statement in light of the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey indicating that 29 percent of Filipino adults said their quality of life improved, 36 percent said it worsened. and 34 percent said life remained unchanged. The research yielded a net gainers score of minus seven percentage points against the losers, which the SWS classified as fai enough. The November poll noted that the decline was driven by decreases in most areas of the country. Mindanao recorded the highest Net Gainers score at +2 (high), while Balance Luzon registered –7 (fair). Metro Manila and the Visayas both fell to “mediocre” levels at –12 and –14, respectively. Over all, 44 percent of adult Filipinos are looking forward to the improvement of their quality of life over the coming year. In support of President Marcos’ call for a more transparent and people-oriented budget, Dumlao said the whole DSWD, under the leadership of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, will ensure the judicious and effective spending of public funds once the 2026 has been signed by the President.

Villafuertes push construction of ‘last mile schools’ nationwide TWO lawmakers from Camarines Sur on Thursday pushed for the passage of a bill that establishes a program to build “last mile” schools for children in all geographically isolated, disadvantaged and conflict-affected areas (GIDCAs), as well as those in indigenous cultural communities (ICCs). Camarines Sur Reps. Luigi Villafuerte (Second District) and Miguel Luis Villafuerte (Fifth District) appealed to the Senate to support the measure that has already been approved on final reading noted that the House of Representatives has already approved the measure on third and final reading earlier this year. “The best way for the Department of Education (DepEd) to improve the quality of, and access to, basic education of kids in remote areas nationwide is to expand and accelerate the construction

of “last mile” schools in all GIDCAs and ICCs, along with the necessary infrastructure such as access roads and power facilities leading to these communities,” the two Villafuertes said. They filed House Bill (HB) 4745, which mandates “a five-year implementation of the school building program through a coordinated multi-agency approach.” The bills was passed on third and final reading last October. In pushing for the bill’s enactment, the two lawmakers acknowledged the constitutional provision on the promotion of the rights of all Filipinos to quality education at all levels. The Education department launched its “Last Mile Schools” Program in 2019 which aims to address the lack of access to quality education in GDCAs. Maricel V. Cruz

GRIM FIND. Philippine Coast Guard divers recover the bodies of three minors who reportedly drowned at the Moroboro Dam in Dingle, Iloilo. Three other children who tried to rescue their friends from the turbulent water survived and were declared in good condition at the hospital. PCG photo

SPORTS

A8

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Tolentino spearheads creation PSC pushes massive of SEA Youth Games in Manila upgrade of Rizal memorial sports facility

By Randy Caluag A MAJOR facelift is underway at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) as the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) accelerates repair and beautification works aimed at improving training venues and housing for national athletes. Unfazed by the holiday season, the PSC, in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), has been working round-the-clock to refurbish and revitalize the RMSC’s tennis courts and support facilities. The upgrades are being fasttracked in preparation for the country’s historic hosting of the Philippine Women’s Open (WTA 125), scheduled from January 26 to 31, 2026. Renovation efforts continued even as Filipino athletes were competing in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, underscoring the government’s parallel commitment to both athlete performance and infrastructure development. According to the PSC, the project aligns with its strategic goals of enhancing athlete welfare while boosting sports tourism by delivering world-class facilities and an elevated experience for both competitors and spectators.

P

HILIPPINE Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino has spearheaded the creation in Southeast Asia of a youth-based multi-sport competition that will help guarantee the preparedness of the region’s athletes for the Asian Youth Games (AYG) and Youth Olympic Games (YOG). To be called the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games or SEA Plus YG, the competitions are designed to be held at least a year before the AYG for athletes aged 17 and under. Tolentino is the founding president of the games that has already secured the imprimatur of nine of the 11 national Olympic committee (NOC) presidents of the SEA Games—Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam and Timor Leste. The POC head said that the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has advanced its full support and assistance to the SEA

Plus YG in a meeting among the founding members with OCA Director General Dr. Husain AHZ Al-Musallam of Kuwait who said that the countries which don’t want to join is up to them.” “The SEA Plus YG is Southeast Asia’s answer to molding athletes at the grassroots level, make them competitive at the AYG level and able and capable of winning medals at the YOG,” Tolentino said. The inaugural edition is intended to be in Manila in 2028 and shall be staged biennially thereafter to align with the AYG—the second largest sporting event in the continent after the Asian Games

drawing 45 nations—which was recently hosted by Manama with Tashkent as the next host in 2029. “Ultimately, the end goal is for these young athletes to have those strong foundations to contend at the Summer and Winter Olympics,” added Tolentino, who reiterated the immediate establishment of the SEA Plus YG during official meetings and caucuses at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand last month. Tolentino, honorary president of the SEA Games Federation Council, said the program shall consist of two mandatory sports, a maximum of 12 Olympic sports, maximum of five Asian nonOlympic sports and one traditional sport with up to six medal events. The “Plus,” Tolentino explained, refers to at least one invited Asian NOC in other Asian sub-region for each edition of the Games for the purpose of providing added competition for the region’s grassroots.

NY Yankees’ Volpe honors baseball history of PH By Randy Calaug

Even at night, repairs continue inside the RSMC. PSC photo

Joshua discharged from hospital after fatal car crash LAGOS, Nigeria—Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital, state officials said Wednesday, after surviving a car accident in Nigeria that killed two of his close friends. Joshua was travelling on Monday with friends Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele on a busy highway linking Lagos and Ibadan in the southwest of the country when their SUV rammed into a stationary truck. He suffered minor injuries, according to the Nigerian police. Preliminary investigations showed the vehicle was moving at excessive speed and had burst a tyre before the crash, said the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun state, where the accident occurred. “Anthony Joshua was discharged from hospital late this afternoon”, spokesmen for Lagos and Ogun state governments said in a joint statement late Wednesday night. “Though heavy hearted and full of emotion over the loss of his two close friends, he was deemed clinically fit to recuperate at home,” Lagos state’s spokesman Gbenga Omotoso and his Ogun counterpart Kayode Akinmade said. AFP

Newspapers bearing headlines about a road accident involving British boxer Anthony Joshua.

Abraham Tolentino

New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe is shown inside the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium.

NEW York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe paid tribute to Philippine baseball history during his first visit to the country, visiting the historic Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Manila—an iconic venue that hosted legendary exhibition games during Babe Ruth’s tour in the 1930s. Volpe, 24, walked the same grounds where Ruth played in the stadium’s inaugural game in December 1934, reflecting on the sport’s deep roots in the Philippines and its lasting legacy across generations. The visit carried special personal meaning for Volpe, an American of Filipino-Italian descent, who described the trip as a homecoming. He said it was an opportunity to honor his Filipino heritage while recognizing the perseverance and dreams that continue to fuel baseball in the country. In Manila primarily for a family wedding, Volpe also made time to give back to the local community. He conducted a free baseball clinic for around 200 young players at the Felino Marcelino Sr. Baseball Stadium in Barangay Ususan, Taguig, sharing basic skills, techniques, and words of encouragement. Volpe is set to stay in the Philippines until January 7 before returning to New York City to prepare for the upcoming Major League Baseball season, which opens in March 2026. On the field, Volpe has already made his mark in Yankees history. He is one of only five rookies in franchise history to post at least 10 home runs and 15 stolen bases in a season. He also hit his first career grand slam against the Oakland Athletics, becoming the youngest Yankee to hit a grand slam at Yankee Stadium and the first rookie shortstop in team history to do so.

Tacking the lessons on the cork board that is life The Designated Kit Man Erel Cabatbat

EVERY new year brings a lot of festive atmosphere. There is always that energy, the vibe and even the disposition that is always on the positive side. The new year is like an automatic reset, at least for The Designated Kit Man, an opportunity to start again, but with the experiences and lessons of the previous year tacked on the corkboard of life, serving as reminders of making the most of the opportunities at hand. This knowledge should also serve us that in order to move forward, we should let go of the things or even people who keep us “grounded” in a less positive way. If these things make our next journey heavy or burdensome, then we need to cut the ties that bind us. Of course, these are easier said than done. But it’s a new year, we can afford to be more optimistic, upbeat and hopeful not only for ourselves but also for our loved ones and even for others. We can buy all the round fruits to bring us luck as we welcome yet another period in our lives. Light the most colorful fireworks and loudest firecrackers to drive away the evil spirits (because these obviously don’t work against many

crooks, who mastered the art of corruption that will put Siths into shame). We can also follow several beliefs that will bring us the life we all wanted – prosperous, healthy and comfortable – but hopefully not of those “contractors and ghost flood control architect level of life, though. Which makes me wonder why, despite all these beliefs, rituals and other practices, many Filipinos remain poor? Maybe because there is something we should do amid these wishes and prayers. We should not forget that in every hope, positivity and good vibes that every new year brings, there is a corresponding task and responsibility to making our lives better. The point is, all these things will be useless and won’t really matter unless we put in the hard work. It is not enough to hope, pray, leave our existence to luck and to the whims of the football gods. We need to work even more, walk the talk and put our backs into the things expected of us because luck and charm can only carry us far. Eventually, these things run out. Hard work never ends, especially its upside. We make our own destiny and we are responsible for our own success and failures and not because we failed to complete the dozen round fruits we need before the

new year unfolds or we happen to fall asleep before the first midnight of the year ticked in. Football wise, we had a great year. There were so many firsts in 2025. Three semifinal spots in the 33rd SEA Games for. A gold for the Philippine National Women’s Football Team which should be more than enough for them to be named 2025’s Team of the Year. I know, my bias is for the Filipinas despite several other squads deserved to be acknowledged, too, because of what they accomplished last year. Our national football teams, especially the players, the coaches and even the team staff deserve all the praises and the accolades for the sheer sacrifice, the buckets of tears and sweat and the never-ending faith that they personified to be able to rise to the challenges they faced on and off the pitch just to make the country proud. What these teams accomplished last year were nothing short of spectacular, most definitely awesome to say the least. The triumphs may appear at the rearview mirror now eventhough we are just into the second day of 2026, but these accomplishments have set the bar higher, the expectations at all timehigh and the job really cut out for the national sporting association we love to

hate and hate to love in different sorts of ways. Our most important game in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 qualifiers will happen in March. I hope the best possible team will be available for that return match against Tajikistan. We also hope that the Filipinas are more than motivated in chasing that return ticket to the World Cup. But then again, hope is useless without the hard work, the foresight, the mindsight and the sacrifices to make these happen. The gods of football have already basked in the glory of what 2025 has been. They enjoyed the triumphs, the praises and beat their chests proudly. Deserving or not, I have my own opinions. And these are debatable to some or most depending on which side you are on. One thing is clear, however, the work doesn’t stop. And it only gets harder moving forward. Tama na pa-cute, trabaho na po tayo ulit. Happy New Year! May we all be healthy and be better individuals in the coming days. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

BUSINESS WHAT’S INSIDE?

B1

FRIDAY, JANAURY 2, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

BOI flags P5b in unpaid incentives for carmakers P4.98 billion By Othel V. Campos

T

EDC sets P30b for Leyte plants

B2

China seeks 55% tariff on beef imports

HE Board of Investments has flagged approximately P4.98 billion in unfunded tax payment certificates and production incentives under the government’s Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy program, raising concerns over the timely settlement of dues for automotive manufacturers. Ceferino Rodolfo, trade undersecretary and BOI managing head, said the unpaid TPCs reflect accumulated obligations to car manufacturers and parts makers. He underscored the need to cover earned incentives to maintain the government’s policy credibility. “These are incentives that have already been earned by investors under the CARS program, and timely settlement is important to sustaining confidence in the government’s industrial support framework,” Rodolfo said.

In a letter to Congress, the BOI requested a P3.99 billion allocation to settle the unpaid certificates, stressing that the funding is necessary to meet fiscal support commitments to the automotive sector. Under the fiscal year 2026 National Expenditure Program, only partial funding has been provided: P225.653 million under current appropriations and P333.504 million under unprogrammed appropriations. This leaves about P3.428 billion in earned TPCs unfunded. BOI records show that total TPCs

issued and earned under the CARS program amount to about P5.43 billion, though only P1.443 billion has been funded to date. The remaining balance represents arrears accumulated over several budget cycles, including allocations from 2024 and 2025. The BOI also noted that these figures do not include a pending P1.557 billion production volume incentive application from Toyota Motor Philippines. That application covers 38,127 units of the Vios model manufactured between September 2023 and July 15, 2024, and remains subject to approval by the interagency committee and the BOI board. Including the pending Toyota application, total unfunded incentives under the CARS program amount to nearly P5 billion, the BOI clarified. The BOI previously urged Congress to support full funding of earned TPCs to reinforce policy consistency and the government’s commitment to honoring incentive agreements with investors.

Unfunded tax payment certificates

P3.99 billion

BOI allocation request from Congress

P1.557 billion

Totoya Motor incentive application

B4 No public funds used for tourism magazine feature THE Department of Tourism clarified Thursday that it did not contract, pay or direct Philippine Topics magazine to produce a recent cover or feature story. The DOT issued the statement to address what it described as false and misleading claims circulating online following a backlash over the magazine using the tourism secretary’s face on its cover rather than promoting the country’s destinations. The department emphasized that Philippine Topics is a private publication and not an official DOT magazine. According to the department, the magazine’s content—including images and text—was produced at the publication’s editorial discretion. The DOT said it provided no photographs, guidance or funding for the feature. Philippine Topics independently covered activities related to World Expo Osaka 2025 and used its own materials for the story, the DOT added. “Any claim suggesting that the department or the secretary used public office or resources for personal promotion is false, misleading and expressly denied,” the DOT said. Regarding claims made by a photographer, the department clarified it did not supply the image in question to the magazine. “At no time did the department instruct, select, approve or endorse any photograph for the magazine,” the statement read. “Any implication that the DOT chose or favored the use of an image of the secretary over destination-focused materials is entirely false and without factual basis.” The DOT said it views the dissemination of these claims with “serious concern,” noting that misrepresenting official acts or fabricating affiliations undermines public trust.

BALIKBAYAN BOXES.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) receive their balikbayan boxes after a long period of waiting. These balikbayan boxes are part of shipments that were abandoned and left undelivered by certain freight forwarders, and are now gradually being distributed to OFWs and their families. The Bureau of Customs (BOC) clarified that the prolonged delay in the delivery was caused by the failure of certain deconsolidators and freight forwarders to fulfill their obligations, despite having already collected payment from OFWs abroad.

The entire crew of the inaugural flight of Vietnam Airlines from Hanoi to Cebu. To celebrate the route opening, Vietnam Airlines held welcome activities at both airports and presented gifts to passengers on the inaugural flight.

Vietnam Airlines expands SE Asia network with new Cebu route VIETNAM Airlines has officially inaugurated direct service between Hanoi and Cebu, marking an expansion of the airline’s international network. The new route strengthens connectivity in Southeast Asia while offering travelers more access to the region’s resort destinations. Flight VN643, operated by an Airbus A321 with about 100 passengers, departed Noi Bai International Airport at 10:50 p.m. Dec. 2 and landed at Mactan-Cebu

International Airport at 3:30 a.m. local time Dec. 3. The route is the carrier’s first direct link between the Vietnamese capital and Cebu, known for its island landscapes and heritage, offering attractions ranging from beach escapes to nature adventures. Flights from Hanoi to Cebu depart every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Return flights operate every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. With a flight time of three hours, the service significantly shortens the journey

between the two cities. The service also opens the door for travelers from the Philippines to experience Hanoi, known for its culinary heritage and proximity to attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa. Dang Anh Tuan, executive vice president of Vietnam Airlines, said the service represents more than just a new route. “It strengthens cultural and economic connections between Vietnam and the region, creating

MANG INASAL’S AWARDS.

Employees of Mang Inasal celebrate as the company garnered 57 recognitions from local and international award-giving bodies in 2025. Among these are citations from the International Business Awards, Campaign AsiaPacific, Marketing Excellence Awards, ASEAN PR Excellence Awards, and Asia Pacific Stevie Awards.

DA seeks legislative overhaul to fix agri sector’s ‘structural backbone’ AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is urging Congress to fast-track long-pending legislation and revamp entrenched institutions as the government seeks to jump-start a farm sector weighed down by years of weak growth. Tiu Laurel said the Department of Agriculture has asked lawmakers to help repair the sector’s “structural backbone,” starting with outdated laws that govern key agencies and slow decision-making. Congress has passed the Animal Industry and Competitiveness Act, modernizing livestock, poultry and aquaculture with P20 billion in annual funding over the next decade. Mean-

while, amendments to the Bureau of Plant Industry law are nearing completion to streamline operations, tighten accountability and restore staff agencies to full line functions, Tiu Laurel said. Focus is now shifting to outdated commodity laws, with amendments covering rice, corn and coconut aimed at strengthening value chains and boosting farmer incomes. “With global coconut prices expected to remain high, further delays risk squandering a strategic advantage,” Tiu Laurel warned. He stressed that farmers could miss out on peak global demand if the long-delayed Coco Levy Fund remains inaccessible. Othel V. Campos

new opportunities for travel and collaboration,” Tuan said. “Vietnam Airlines is dedicated to providing safe and high-quality services that promote tourism and foster closer ties between the two countries.” The launch aligns with the airline’s strategy to expand its network in Southeast Asia, a market with strong tourism growth. The route is expected to promote tourism, trade and cultural exchange between Vietnam and the Philippines.

Homestyle, décor exports seen dropping in 2025 EXPORT earnings for the homestyle and holiday décor sector are projected to decline by 30 percent to 40 percent in 2025 compared with previous years as exporters grapple with sluggish demand and the peso’s appreciation against the U.S. dollar, industry officials said. Despite the expected downturn, exporters are optimistic about 2026, banking on fresh orders from recent international trade fairs. Romeo Balderrama Jr., president of the Philippine Homestyle and Holiday Decor Association Inc. and head of the Philippine Exporters Confederation–Southern Tagalog Association Inc., said next year’s export performance will hinge on orders from the October 2025 Hong Kong housewares and décor trade show and Manila FAME. Manila FAME is the country’s premier home, fashion and lifestyle trade exhibition. “The samples and inquiries usually come in January and February next year. Some buyers who used to source from us appear to be returning after seeing us in Hong Kong, since they no longer come here,” Balderrama said. The United States remains the industry’s largest export market, accounting for 60 percent to 70 percent of shipments, followed by Italy, Brazil and Japan. Balderrama underscored the importance of participating in international trade fairs to promote products and secure orders. Othel V. Campos

BUSINESS

B2

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

EURO BANKNOTES.

Stocks pull lower at end of record year for markets NEW YORK—Stock markets mostly retreated Wednesday in thin trading, following a year of record gains for key assets as central banks cut interest rates and the tech sector boomed thanks to the growth of artificial intelligence. Wall Street’s main indices dipped to close the final trading day of 2025, with little fresh economic data apart from a drop in both first-time and continuing claims for jobless benefits in recent weeks. Still, all three indices logged solid gains for the full year. The Dow added 13 percent in 2025, the broad-based S&P 500 advanced 16.4 percent and the tech-focused Nasdaq Composite surged 20.4 percent over the year. “Generally speaking, 2025 was a spectacular year for equities,” said Briefing.com analyst Patrick O’Hare. Across the globe, stock markets struck record highs and enjoyed double-digit gains in 2025, thanks in large part to interest rate cuts from the US Federal Reserve following drops in inflation. London’s benchmark FTSE 100 index jumped more than 21 percent in 2025 -- the biggest gain for 16 years. Frankfurt rallied 23 percent in 2025, while Paris saw an annual gain of more than 10 percent. In Asia, Seoul stocks rocketed 75 percent higher, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index jumped 28 percent, and Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 won more than 26 percent. “To push meaningfully higher in 2026, equities will need confirmation that the Fed can deliver at least the two rate cuts still priced by the market, with growth unimpeded,” noted Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management. Minutes of the Fed’s policy meeting in December, which were released on Tuesday, indicated that most of its officials see future rate cuts as appropriate, should inflation cool over time as expected. AFP

A man withdraws euro banknotes from an ATM in the centre of Sofia on January 1, 2026, as Bulgaria officially adopts the euro.Bulgaria became the 21st country to switch to the euro as it entered the New Year on January 1, 2026, a milestone met with both cheers and fears, nearly 20 years after the Balkan nation joined the European Union. AFP

EDC sets P30-b capex for Leyte plants By Alena Mae S. Flores

L

OPEZ-LED Energy Development Corp. is launching a P30 billion multiyear program dubbed “Reimagining Leyte” to generate up to 700 megawatts of capacity from its geothermal power plants by 2029.

EDC chief financial officer Erwin Avante said the program involves rebuilding the Leyte facilities, particularly the 129-megawatt Upper Mahiao Power Plant in Kananga, Leyte. Commissioned in 1996, the Upper Mahiao facility has key components with an economic life of about 15 to 20 years. Decommissioning will be

implemented in phases, with the first two of the plant’s four units targeted for 2026 and the remainder by 2029. “So we will rebuild that particular portion of Leyte. The plan is to increase the capacity from — right now it’s operating less than 450 MW more or less — we want to increase it to about 700 MW operating. By 2029 is the target,” Avante said.

Avante said the “Reimagining Leyte” initiative involves building new plants to replace aging ones. Upper Mahiao is one of four plants EDC operates in the province. EDC has earmarked P19 billion in capital expenditure for 2026 to finance its geothermal expansion and drilling program, power plant upgrades and new geothermal areas such as Amacan in Mindanao and projects in Indonesia. The Amacan prospect has an estimated capacity of 70 MW to 120 MW. Meanwhile, PT FirstGen Geothermal Indonesia, a subsidiary of EDC, and PT DSSR Daya Mas Sakti forged a strategic partnership to develop a geothermal portfolio

Converge pivots to full-scale tech firm as enterprise revenue jumps 16% By Darwin G. Amojelar CONVERGE Information and Communications Technology Solutions Inc. is accelerating its transition from a fiber internet provider to a full-scale technology company, driven by a growing footprint in the enterprise market. With the evolving needs of large companies and various industries, Converge is eyeing the businessto-business (B2B) segment with innovative solutions, marked by the launch of the Converge Global Business headquarters in November. Continuing its focus on the B2B sector, Converge recently onboarded Dindo Marzan to head its SME Business Group. Marzan has more than 20 years of experience developing and commercializing tech platforms in emerging and developed markets. Prior to joining Converge, Marzan served as chief operating officer of BayaniPay, scaling the Los Angelesbased fintech startup to $200 million

in gross transaction value and leading its North American expansion. As head of Converge SME Solutions, he will drive revenue growth, build strategic partnerships and elevate market position. He previously held leadership roles at True Digital Group, Voyager Innovations, ABS-CBN, Globe Telecom and Mozcom. The company also tapped Grace Jarin-Castillo, a pioneer in building corporate data businesses with offerings such as data centers, managed services, cloud, mobility solutions and other value-added services. Jarin-Castillo has more than 10 years of experience in solutionselling to top enterprises and more than 35 years of overall experience in business development. Converge earlier reported a net income of P8.9 billion for the January-to-September period, up 8.4 percent from P8.2 billion during the same period last year. Consolidated revenues rose 10.1 percent in the first nine months to P33 billion from P29.9 billion year-on-year.

in Indonesia. The companies signed a shareholders’ agreement to formalize the joint venture, which will focus on managing geothermal resources with a combined potential of 440 MW across six fields in West Java, Flores, Jambi, West Sumatra and Central Sulawesi. With an installed capacity of nearly 1,400 MW, EDC accounts for approximately 17 percent of the Philippines’ total installed renewable energy capacity. Its geothermal portfolio makes up about 56 percent of the country’s total installed geothermal capacity, solidifying the Philippines’ position as the world’s third-largest geothermal producer.

MGen to break ground on Toledo coal facility in Q1

TRANSIT TOUR. The Department of Tourism (DOT) launches its first Transit Tour Program, a curated four-hour guided experience for eligible international transit passengers with at least an eight-hour layover at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), starting Jan. 16. Open to travelers from visa-free countries or those holding valid Philippine visas, the program allows passengers to clear immigration and experience key heritage sites such as Intramuros and the National Museum, alongside modern lifestyle destinations including major entertainment and leisure hubs in Pasay and Parañaque.

South Korea posts highest-ever exports in 2025 on chips boom despite US trade turmoil SEOUL—Soaring global demand for semiconductors sent South Korea’s exports to their highest-ever level in 2025, official data showed Thursday, despite a year of trade turmoil sparked by US President Donald Trump’s tariff onslaught. Total exports last year were valued at over $700 billion, according to data from Seoul’s industry ministry, up 3.8 percent from the previous year. A worldwide surge in interest in artificial intelligence saw the semiconductor industry export goods worth $173.4 billion in 2025 -- a record high and an increase of more than 20 percent from the previous year, the ministry said. High-priced memory chips used in AI data centers were in strong demand, they added. South Korean tech juggernaut Samsung Electronics is one of the world’s top memory-chip makers, providing crucial components for the AI industry and the infrastructure it relies on. South Korea is also home to SK hynix, another key player in the global semiconductor market. Cars, South Korea’s other key export, also performed strongly, with auto shipments rising to $72 billion, the highest on record despite US tariff pressures. Asia’s fourth-largest economy was initially hit with a 25 percent across-the-board tariff by the United States but managed to secure a last-minute agreement for a reduced 15 percent rate. South Korea is one of Washington’s biggest trade partners. AFP

MERALCO PowerGen Corp. is spending an initial P1 billion this year for the construction of its 73-megawatt Toledo coal plant in Cebu. MGen president Emmanuel Rubio said the bulk of the company’s capital expenditure next year would be allocated to the Toledo facility, which has a total estimated project cost of $150 million. “Most of the capex... would be for Toledo, which we expect to break ground by the first quarter next year,” Rubio said. Rubio previously said the company is working with an engineering, procurement and construction contractor for the plant but has not yet signed a contract. He expects the facility, located in Daanglungsod, Toledo City, to be completed by 2028. It is being developed by MGen unit Toledo Power Co. Rubio said the plant’s output will be purchased by MGen’s retail electricity supplier for the retail market. In addition to the Toledo project, MGen is developing a 1,200-megawatt ultra-supercritical coal plant in Quezon province through its unit Atimonan One Energy Inc. As of July 2025, MGen had a combined net sellable capacity of 5,068 MW from traditional and renewable sources. The company plans to double this capacity to 10,346 MW by 2030. Its main subsidiaries include Global Business Power, MGen Renewable Energy Inc. and MGen Gas Energy Holdings Inc. MGen also holds stakes in PacificLight Power, an LNG facility in Singapore, and SP New Energy Corp. Additionally, the company has invested in a 40.2 percent stake in an integrated liquefied natural gas facility in Batangas.

BUSINESS

B4

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

China says to impose extra 55% tariffs on some beef imports B EIJING—China said on Wednesday it will impose additional 55 percent tariffs on some beef imports from countries including Brazil, Australia and the United States that exceed a certain quantity from January 1. The price of beef in China has trended downwards in recent years, with analysts blaming oversupply and a lack of demand as the world’s second-largest economy has slowed. At the same time imports have surged, with China representing a hugely important market for countries such as Brazil, Argentina and Australia.

Investigators found that beef imports had damaged China’s domestic industry, Beijing’s commerce ministry said in a statement. The probe covered fresh, frozen, bone-in and boneless beef. The extra tariffs apply for three years -- until Dec. 31, 2028. The ministry described the levies as “safeguards” and said

they would be gradually relaxed. Countries have been assigned annual quotas and beef sent to China will be subject to the extra 55 percent levy if imports go beyond that amount. Quotas expand slightly each year. In 2026, Brazil has an import quota of 1.1 million tons while Argentina has a cap of roughly half that. Australia faces a quota of around 200,000 tons and the United States one of 164,000 tons. The ministry also said it was suspending part of a free trade agreement with Australia covering beef. “The implementation of

safeguards on imported beef is intended to temporarily help the domestic industry get through difficulties, not to restrict normal beef trade,” a spokesperson said in a separate statement. Brazil, the world’s largest meat exporter, said Wednesday it intended to “work with the Chinese government, both bilaterally and within the WTO (World Trade Organization) framework, to mitigate the impact” of the new measure. The foreign ministry in Brasilia said in a statement that Brazil was the main supplier of beef to China, which accounted for 52 percent of the South American country’s foreign sales of the commodity in 2024. AFP

Visa, LandBank vow to digitize gov’t payments By Thony Rose Lesaca VISA and Land Bank of the Philippines have teamed up to expand card acceptance across digital government platforms to modernize public services and the collection of taxes and fees. Under the agreement, Visa will enable the state-run lender to facilitate card payments on platforms such as Link.BizPortal. This allows users to pay for products and services from both the government and private sectors digitally. The scope of the partnership includes payments for national government agencies, government procurement systems and transit and transportation networks. The collaboration also supports the integration of the eGov.ph digital services portal. The initiative seeks to centralize and streamline government collections by providing a single platform for various public services. Visa Philippines country manager Jeffrey Navarro said the partnership reinforces the company’s commitment to a digitally and financially inclusive Philippines. Navarro said the company hopes to enhance security and efficiency for government transactions to support broader socioeconomic goals. The move follows national efforts to increase the share of digital payments in the country, which have grown significantly as the government pushes for 50 percent of total retail transaction volume to be digital. While specific financial terms were not disclosed, LandBank said it continues to lead the digital transformation of government disbursements and collections, processing millions of transactions worth billions of pesos annually.

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) opens the DTI Bagong Pilipinas Christmas

Village at SM Megamall, providing MSMEs with greater market access, visibility, and income opportunities during the holiday season. The initiative supports Filipino businesses to scale, compete, and grow, while encouraging the public to support local products that help sustain jobs and uplift Filipino families.

Manila tops APAC growth for flexible workspace MANILA has emerged as the fastest-growing market for flexible workspace in the Asia-Pacific region in 2025, according to a report by The Instant Group. Demand in the Philippine capital surged 51 percent year-on-year, led by a significant increase in requirements from multinational companies and the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. The global marketplace for flexible workspace found that Manila’s expansion outperformed other major regional hubs as businesses shifted toward more agile real estate strategies. The city’s growth was supported by an expanding talent pool and the development of new commercial districts. Across the Asia-Pacific, companies are reevaluating their office portfolios to support hybrid work models. The Instant Group executive director for managed Asia Pacific Paul Marshall said organizations are prioritizing efficiency and smarter ways of working. Marshall said the shift toward dynamic workplace models is expected to accelerate into 2026. Australian cities followed Manila in the growth rankings. Sydney recorded a 46-percent increase in demand, while Melbourne saw a 34-percent rise. Both cities benefited from a trend toward decentralization, with companies seeking suburban hubs closer to where employees live. Data showed that enquiries for Melbourne’s suburban hubs jumped 104 percent compared to 2024. Other high-growth markets in the top 10 included Kuala Lumpur at 25 percent, Tokyo at 23 percent and Shenzhen at 19 percent. Tech-heavy markets like Hyderabad and Taipei also saw gains of 9 percent and 3 percent respectively, as firms sought scalable solutions for project-based teams.

PH, South Korea team up to boost Bicol elemi industry thru tech support By Othel V. Campos THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) signed a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) with South Korean intellectual property agencies and a Bicol-based trade group to modernize the local elemi industry through technology and branding support. The agreement, signed with the Ministry of Intellectual Property of Korea (MOIP), the Korea Invention Promotion Association (KIPA) and the Orgullo Kan Bikol Association (OKB), formalizes a collaboration

to improve elemi oil extraction. The project, titled “2025 IP Sharing Project,” introduces a specialized extraction system designed to replace improvised distillation methods that previously resulted in low yields and safety risks for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The new technology addresses labor intensity and enables safer processing while supporting a shared facility for local producers. Throughout 2025, the initiative included field research, equipment installation and training programs to ensure the sustainable development

of the Bicol region’s resin-based industry. Under the framework, MOIP and KIPA will lead research and brand development, while IPOPHL Bureau of Trademarks will serve as the local project manager overseeing field operations and awareness campaigns. OKB will be responsible for site management, safety and community engagement. “It is a collective affirmation that innovation, when guided by purpose, can uplift communities,” IPOPHL acting director-general Nathaniel Arevalo said during the ceremony. OKB president Erika Pereña

noted that the MOU enhances branding strategies and creates an ecosystem where farmers and entrepreneurs collaborate. She said the project restores dignity to local production and prepares Bicolano MSMEs for the global market. KIPA vice president Dong Wan Kim said he expects the new technology and brand to provide tangible benefits to the local economy and achieve success internationally. The OKB association, which supports regional MSMEs, also organizes the “Orgullo kan Bikol” trade fair to promote heritage, tourism and local products.

DOE, UK sign deal to boost offshore wind and microgrid projects in PH By Alena Mae S. Flores

KFC NORTH FAIRVIEW. KFC Philippines opens its landmark 50th store in Quezon City, located at Commonwealth Avenue

corner of Labayani Street in North Fairview. KFC Philippines vice president of Business Development Jun Cruz; franchisee Jennifer Salinas; KFC Philippines general manager Jojo Marcelo; franchisee Alex Salinas; KFC Philippines operations manager Gina Domingo; and FMD director Adrian Galindo, lead the ribbon-cutting rites and store opening festivities.

THE Department of Energy (DOE) and the United Kingdom government signed a letter of intent on Dec. 16 to accelerate the transition to clean energy through technical assistance for offshore wind and microgrid development. The agreement, signed by British Embassy Economic and Climate Counsellor Lloyd Cameron and DOE Secretary Sharon Garin, formalizes cooperation under the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UKPACT) Philippines Country Fund. It supports the transition of the Southeast Asian nation to a low-carbon economy by strengthening institutional capacity and technical rigor for renewable energy projects. The cooperation aligns with the 2025 UK–Philippines Joint Framework for the Enhanced Partnership and aims to convert policy goals into deliverable infrastructure. Under the framework, the UK will provide support for 3 technical assistance projects through March 2027 to improve the readiness of the energy sector.

Garin said the agreement reinforces a shared commitment to practical climate cooperation where transparent processes and stronger capacity translate into projects on the ground. She said strengthening the frameworks for offshore wind and microgrids would make development more feasible and well-governed while safeguarding long-term energy security. The first project focuses on creating an evaluation framework for infrastructure plans submitted under the Green Energy Auction (GEA5) for offshore wind. The initiative will establish documentation standards and evaluation criteria to ensure auction outcomes lead to projects that are bankable and can be executed on schedule. A second project involves developing a data collection framework for priority microgrid sites to support the DOE Competitive Selection Process for Microgrid System Providers. By improving site-level planning data, the DOE intends to enable more disciplined procurement and sustainable energy solutions for isolated and underserved areas.

TRANSPORT

C1

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com Darwin G. Amojelar, Issue Editor

ICTSI’s Tecon Suape earns 2025 ‘Ocean Friend’ seal

Govt boosts EDSA Busway capacity

T

HE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is scaling up operations on the EDSA Busway to mitigate the impact of the EDSA rehabilitation on commuters. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the DOTr to ensure mobility of commuters using the busway while the rehabilitation works along portions of the highway are ongoing. DOTr Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor said Secretary Giovanni Lopez had ordered EDSA bus operators to deploy more units to carry more commuters, while the MRT-3 has already deployed Dalian trains to increase the line’s carrying capacity especially during peak hours. “We at DOTr are deploying more [bus] units so that our countrymen can ride faster,” Pastor said in a radio interview. “We are also deploying Dalian Trains on the MRT-3 so that more passengers can ride the MRT-3,” he said.

At least 80 personnel from the DOTr-Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) have been deployed on a 24hour shifting basis to assist the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel with traffic management, to help mitigate the effects of the EDSA rehabilitation, and also assist commuters using the EDSA Busway. SAICT personnel are also stationed at the MMDA Metrobase to monitor EDSA Busway operations for faster coordination and information relay. “As part of our preventive

measures or to mitigate the effects of the ongoing construction on EDSA, we have deployed personnel from the DOTr, particularly SAICT, to assist in traffic management,” Pastor said. The DOTr official also reported that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have completed road reblocking and asphalt overlay works at the EDSA Buendia Station. “As per the latest update [from DPWH], the overlay works have been fixed. Our station access to Buendia will also be restored. So we can now use the Buendia Busway Station. Our barriers are also being restored in the said area,” he said.

Pastor said construction on three new EDSA Busway stations— located in Cubao, Magallanes, and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX)—is set to begin next year. The expansion aims to boost the system’s efficiency and provide commuters with better accessibility. He noted that the new EDSA Busway Kamuning Station would be inaugurated in the first quarter of 2026 as part of the busway’s modernization. Pastor said the new Kamuning Station is equipped with elevators and escalators to improve accessibility for commuters especially for persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens and pregnant women. The agency is also planning a new busway connecting España and Quezon Avenue, with the feasibility study expected to be completed by next year. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will be funding the study for the new busway system. The EDSA Busway Project is a flagship initiative of the DOTr, supported by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). It aims to enhance mass transit efficiency, safety, and accessibility along EDSA, Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare. Darwin G. Amojelar

LRTA, SM ink deal for LRT-2 Antipolo Station walkway THE Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) has partnered with SM Supermalls to construct the LRT-2 Antipolo Station Interconnection Access Bridge, a project designed to seamlessly link the rail system with SM City Masinag. The project aims to provide a safe, direct, and weather-protected pedestrian link between LRT2 Antipolo Station and SM City Masinag, improving commuter convenience, accessibility, and overall urban mobility in the area. Under the MOA, an interconnecting bridge will be constructed featuring a fully covered and weather-protected walkway. The facility will be equipped

with adequate lighting, ventilation systems, CCTV coverage, regular security patrols, clear directional signage, and emergency safety features to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient commuting experience for LRT-2 passengers. Construction of the interconnection access bridge is set to begin in the first quarter of 2026. Once completed, the project is expected to enhance passenger safety and ease of movement, particularly during peak hours and inclement weather. Present during the MOA signing ceremony were LRTA Administrator Hernando T. Cabrera; SM Supermalls

Cebu Pacific named among ‘Best Places to Work’ in 2025 vice president Junias M. Eusebio; senior assistant vice president of SM Supermalls Ronald Allan D. Brosas; engineer Jomar R. Lua, OIC director IV of the rail standards and enforcement office; Dr. Paul Y.

Chua, deputy administrator of LRTA; Evelyn Janeo, OIC of the LRTA business development and public relations division; and lawyer Ronald Redentor G. de Veyra, RN, head executive assistant of LRTA.

Grab, HOPE break ground on Albay classroom GRAB Philippines and HOPE have broken ground on a new public school classroom in Manito, Albay, funded by about P1.4 million raised through innovative in-app donation drives. The project demonstrates the power of “digital bayanihan,” where everyday transactions—such as GrabCar rides, GrabFood deliveries, and the donation of GrabRewards points—were converted into tangible education infrastructure. The classroom will be built inside Inang Maharang Elementary School, which serves more than 100 students in the remote barangays of Manito. The site was selected after Typhoon Uwan damaged public facilities in the area and destroyed two makeshift classrooms at the school, the partners said, leaving students without safe learning spaces and underscoring the need for more permanent, resilient structures. “Grab is dedicated to moving not just goods and people, but also moving malasakit into action. Together with HOPE, we’re giving our users a simple way to participate in digital bayanihan, turning their everyday rides, deliveries, and rewards into

Grab Philippines and HOPE have officially broken ground on the first classroom to be built at Inang Maharang Elementary School. [L-R] Grab Philippines Country Head Ronald Roda, HOPE Founder and Executive Chairperson Nanette Medved-Po

real classrooms. These are new safe spaces where Filipino children can learn, dream, and grow. By making it easier for communities to support these initiatives, we help build a stronger foundation for the country’s next generation,” Ronald Roda, Grab Philippines country head said.

TECON Suape S.A. (TSSA), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) business unit in Pernambuco, Brazil, is once again recognized as one of the country’s leading environmentally responsible port facilities after receiving the 2025 Ocean Friend seal. The award underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and ocean protection. The award was presented at Suape Conecta, an event organized by the Suape Port Industrial Complex. It honors marine terminals that demonstrate excellence in environmental compliance and the consistently adopt best-in-class sustainable practices across port operations. “By recognizing our partners, Suape reaffirms its vision that economic development and environmental protection go hand in hand,” said José Constantino, Suape Port Industrial Complex director of port development and management. “Today, we celebrate not only companies that meet requirements, but strategic partners who share the responsibility for the ocean and ensuring a more sustainable future for the next generations,” he added. Tecon Suape stood out for its proactive environmental management, aligning its operations with global sustainability frameworks, including the United Nations Decade of the Ocean and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water. Moreover, the award reinforces ICTSI’s longstanding strategy of integrating environmental stewardship into every stage of terminal development and daily operations. Five other terminals were also recognized in the ceremony: Pandenor Import and Export, Decal Brasil, Petrobas Transporte S.A.–Suape Waterway Terminal, Ultracargo Logistica, and Temape–Terminals Maritimo de Pernambuco.

The Grab and HOPE classroom is designed as a seven-by-nine-meter learning space with four windows, wall-mounted electric fans, complete electrical wiring with outlets and lighting fixtures, and an in-room bathroom with full plumbing. It will also include standard interior

fixtures such as a teacher’s desk and a chalkboard. “We are so excited about the ways we can continue to work with the Grab community to give their contribution and make an impact to public school education in the Philippines. HOPE’s partnership with Grab has been very engaging and exciting for their subscribers: from converting their Grab points to donations, to mounting last October our first-ever GRAB HOPE Hour, when every ride, every order contributed to the classroom we’re building in Bicol,” Nanette Medved-Po, HOPE founder and executive chairperson said. “This classroom is the first of many that we hope will not only guarantee safe access to learning but inspire communities around business for good. We look forward to more activities with Grab this coming new year, and more classrooms for our public schools.” The companies plan to sustain the collaboration through 2026, expanding infrastructure and development initiatives beyond Bicol. To participate, users can navigate to the GrabRewards catalog in-app and allocate points to HOPE,” she added.

CEBU Pacific closed the year with recognition for its people-first workplace culture, earning Silver at the 2025 BusinessWorld Best Places to Work Awards. CEB received two Silver distinctions: one for overall performance and another for strong results across key workplace areas, including inclusion, support for persons with disabilities, age diversity, and employee wellbeing. It was the only local carrier recognized in this year’s awards. “At Cebu Pacific, we focus on building systems and practices that allow our people to perform at their best—safely, inclusively, and with the support they need. Aviation is a demanding environment, so we invest in policies, leadership, and workplace initiatives that enable our teams to do their jobs well and sustainably. This recognition affirms that our approach is working, and we will continue strengthening it as the company grows,” Felix Lopez, CEB chief Human Resources Officer said. The recognition is based on an independent employee engagement survey conducted by BusinessWorld in partnership with global employee experience platform WorkL. Organizations are assessed across six key drivers of engagement: Reward and Recognition, Instilling Pride, Information Sharing, Empowerment, Wellbeing, and Job Satisfaction. This latest honor builds on CEB’s growing list of workplace milestones. In 2024, the airline earned the Great Place To Work® Certification, becoming the first carrier in Southeast Asia to receive the distinction.

SHOWBIZ

C2

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Filipino films that sparked conversation in 2025

By Jasper Valdez

N

OT all of the year’s most talkedabout films were box-office winners, and not all of the biggest hits were the ones that stirred debate online. In 2025, Philippine cinema thrived in the space between commercial success and cultural impact.

‘I’mPerfect’ is a love story about two adults with Down Syndrome who build a life together, challenging societal doubts about their independence

Some movies filled theaters on opening week, others built their audience slowly, but each found a place in the wider conversation—for different reasons. What stood out was how often that attention moved beyond plot. Viewers questioned choices, challenged portrayals, and shared scenes that stayed with them long after the credits rolled, across screenings, group chats, and social media. This list looks at the Filipino films of 2025 that sparked those responses—specifically, the ones that left an imprint on audiences, public discourse, and local cinema throughout the year. I’mPerfect At its center, I’mPerfect is a love story—but one rarely seen in local mainstream cinema. The film follows two adults with Down syndrome who fall in love and insist on building a life together, despite a world quick to doubt their independence. What makes the film resonate is its refusal to treat its characters as symbols or lessons. Their relationship is allowed to be awkward, tender, and real. In a year when representation was often discussed, I’mPerfect stood out for showing what real inclusion looks like. Sunshine Set in the narrow window before a national gymnastics tryout, Sunshine follows a teenage athlete who discovers she’s pregnant and must make a decision with very little time and even less certainty. The film moves with urgency but never loses its emotional footing, capturing the pressure of expectations—from family, faith, and dreams—closing in all at once. Its strength lies in how grounded it feels, refusing easy answers while showing how quickly a young person’s future can tilt. ‘Sunshine’ follows a teenage gymnast facing a pregnancy decision before a national tryout, capturing the pressure of expectations and the uncertainty of her future

Meet, Greet & Bye This family drama begins with a simple wish: a terminally ill mother wants to meet her favorite Korean idol before she dies. What unfolds is a story about adult children scrambling to reconnect, driven by guilt, hope, and the fear of running out of time. The film understands Filipino family dynamics well—how love is often shown through effort rather than words.

that’s where much of its meaning comes from. Their connection sits somewhere between friendship, companionship, and something deeper—without needing to be named. That refusal to pin things down is part of the film’s appeal, challenging how love and connection are usually portrayed in Philippine cinema.

‘Only We Know’ explores the evolving relationship between a retired woman and a widower, leaving their connection undefined and challenging traditional portrayals of love in Philippine cinema

‘Dreamboi’ is a film about a trans woman’s obsession with an audioporn performer

Magellan Instead of celebrating Magellan’s arrival, the film focuses on the conflict and bloodshed it caused. It revisits the encounter in the archipelago by questioning long-held ideas about discovery, power, and legacy. Slow and demanding, the film asks viewers to sit with discomfort and reconsider whose stories have been centered in history. Its selection as the Philippines’ official submission to the 98th Academy Awards placed it firmly among the year’s most significant local releases. Dreamboi

The film, the Philippines’ official submission to the 98th Academy Awards, focuses on the conflict and bloodshed caused by Magellan’s arrival

‘Bloom Where You Are Planted’ follows three land activists reclaiming land from a powerful corporation, facing growing threats

Song of the Fireflies Drawing from the story of the Loboc Children’s Choir, Song of the Fireflies traces how music became a steady path forward for a group of children. The film represents patience and the role of guidance in shaping young lives. It stands out for staying focused on the work behind the achievement, not just the result.

‘Meet, Greet & Bye’ tells the story of a terminally ill mother’s wish to meet her favorite Korean idol prompts her adult children to reconnect, highlighting Filipino family dynamics

Only We Know Only We Know brings together a retired woman and a widower who start spending time with each other after a chance meeting. The film doesn’t rush to explain what they are to one another, and

Bloom Where You Are Planted This drama follows three land activists trying to reclaim land taken by a powerful corporation, only to find themselves under growing threat. The story stays close to the couple, showing how legal hurdles, surveillance, and fear slowly wear them down. It stood out for showing how difficult it can be to hold your ground when the odds are stacked against you.

Dreamboi drew attention not only for its content but also for the debates surrounding it. The film follows a trans woman whose fixation on an underground audio-porn performer blurs fantasy and reality. Erotic, unsettling, and divisive, it sparked discussions about desire, censorship, and whose stories are allowed on screen.

‘Song of the Fireflies’ is inspired by the Loboc Children’s Choir and its music’s transformative power and the importance of guidance in shaping young lives

Miss World Philippines kicks off 2026 pageant season Miss World Philippines Ifugao Valerie Pawid West

THE first batch of candidates for Miss World Philippines 2026 appeared on TV and radio programs, officially kicking off the 2026 pageant season. One standout is Miss World Philippines Ifugao, Valerie Pawid West, a 23-yearold Filipino-American from Philadelphia, USA, whose mother is a native of Kiangan, Ifugao. West, the first Miss Reina Filipina North America, graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Delaware. A singer and songwriter, she began performing for children at Children & Adult Disability and Education Services (CADES), a nonprofit supporting individuals with disabilities in the USA. West was part of GMS-7’s The Clash Season 2 Top 64 contestants and has performed at the Apollo Theater in Upper Manhattan, New York City. She is featured in Orange & Lemons’ new single, “Heart of Ifugao.” After coming to the Philippines and seeing the large number of children with disabilities, West, a certified EMT, founded “Pulse of Hope,” a communityled initiative that champions awareness, bridges gaps in education and therapy, and supports sustainable programs for children with special needs. “Through music therapy and

collaboration with local leaders and organizations, ‘Pulse of Hope’ gives voice to the voiceless and turns compassion into action,” said West, who grew up watching her mother serve as a nurse in the United States. Another head-turner is Miss World Philippines Davao Region 2025, Jayvee Lyn Lorejo, a 24-year-old native of Mawab, Davao de Oro. A graduate of International Tourism Management, Lorejo works as a cabin crew member and Virtual Assistant. Lorejo, who was Miss Bikini Philippines 2021 and Aliwan Fiesta Digital Queen 2021, founded the Pangga Project, an initiative focused on compassion, aiming to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to underprivileged families and to extend care, support, and respect to the elderly, many of whom live in silence and solitude. “I am a dreamer, a fighter, a believer, and an exceptional Davaoeña,” said the goal-oriented Lorejo. Miss World Philippines 2026 will hold its coronation night at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Feb. 3, where Krishnah Gravidez will relinquish her title. Two other titles are also at stake: Universal Woman Philippines 2026 and Miss Global Philippines 2026.

Miss World Philippines Davao Region 2025 Jayvee Lyn Lorejo Filipino films that sparked conversation in 2025

SHOWBIZ ​​T

V5 kicks off 2026 with a mix of fresh series, returning favorites, and reality shows, giving Filipino viewers a year packed with drama, action, music, and fun. Leading the network’s new offerings is A Secret in Prague, a romance thriller starring Enrique Gil and Andrea Brillantes. The series follows Mikoy, an ordinary man torn between protecting his family or betraying the daughter of a mafia boss he loves. Action drama My Bespren Emman features JM De Guzman, Shaina Magdayao, Ai-Ai Delas Alas, and Sid Lucero. The story centers on a reformed ex-con seeking justice after being framed by a criminal gang. Medical drama The Good Doctor, a Philippine adaptation of the global hit, stars Iñigo Pascual as Luke “Dong” Cruz, a surgeon on the autism spectrum. Tony Labrusca, Ryan Agoncillo, Gelli De Belen, and Mylene Dizon also appear in the series. The Kingdom: Magkabilang Mundo, expanding on the MMFF 2024 film, stars Piolo Pascual, Sue Ramirez, Cristine Reyes, Derek Ramsay, and Ryza Cenon. The epic saga explores palace intrigues and rivalries during Queen Sariyah’s reign. Mystery series Project Loki, based on a Wattpad novel and produced by Studio Viva and Cignal Play, stars Marco Gallo, Jada Avanzado, and Dylan Menor as students caught in a high-stakes crimesolving game. Dylan Menor also leads Magic Boys, alongside Joao Constancia, Kych Minemoto, and Baileys Acot, as boarding school freshmen discovering extraordinary powers. TV5 revives comedy talk show TikTalks with Alex Calleja, G3 San Diego, Pat-P Daza, Korina Sanchez, and Rufa Mae Quinto. Reality search Artista Academy, now hosted by Julia Barretto and Xian Lim, returns with weekly challenges and eliminations. New reality programs include Isayaw Mo, a dance competition mentoring street dancers, and Wilyonaryo, marking Willie Revillame’s return to television from a larger Mandaluyong studio. TV5 also expands its TodoMax Primetime Singko starting today, Jan. 2. Una sa Lahat airs at 5:30 p.m., followed by an extended Frontline Pilipinas at 6:00 p.m. Drama Totoy Bato continues at 7:30 p.m., and blockbuster films occupy the 8:30 p.m. slot under Cine Cinco Primetime. The evening concludes with Frontline Tonight at 10:30 p.m. and Vibe Nights at 11:30 p.m. Updates on TV5’s 2026 lineup are available on the network’s official social media pages.

C3

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

TV5 kicks off 2026

with new shows, returning favorites, expanded primetime lineup

TV5 opens its 2026 slate with ‘A Secret in Prague,’ a romance thriller starring Enrique Gil (right) and Andrea Brillantes that anchors the network’s expanded primetime lineup

Action drama ‘My Bespren Emman’ headlines TV5’s new offerings with a story of a reformed ex-con seeking justice after being framed by a criminal gang

Medical drama ‘The Good Doctor’ brings a local adaptation of the global hit to TV5, led by Iñigo Pascual as a surgeon on the autism spectrum

Mystery series ‘Project Loki’ joins TV5’s 2026 lineup as a Wattpadbased adaptation centered on students trapped in a high-stakes crime-solving game

French minister criticizes Clooney’s ‘double standard’ passport

BTS confirms a March 20, 2026 comeback with a new studio album, followed by a large-scale world tour after all seven members complete military service

BTS announces March 2026 comeback with new album and world tour By Angelica Villanueva K-POP powerhouse BTS will make its longawaited return with a new studio album set for release on March 20, marking the group’s first collective comeback in nearly four years. On Thursday, Jan. 1, BigHit Music confirmed the release date following months of anticipation from fans after all seven members completed their military duties in 2025. The upcoming album will be BTS’s first full release since the anthology Proof, which arrived in June 2022 before the group entered a hiatus to fulfill enlistment obligations. Earlier this month, fans began receiving handwritten letters from the group hinting

at their potential comeback. These letters expressed gratitude for fans’ patience and unwavering support and were stamped with the date “2026.03.20.” BigHit said a large-scale world tour will follow the album release, though specific details about the record and concert schedule have yet to be announced. “With the release of a new album on March 20, [BTS] will embark on a large-scale world tour. Details about the new album and the concerts will be announced through official channels at a later date,” the statement said. Composed of RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, the group completed military service earlier this year, with Suga being the final member discharged in June.

US President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Paris was welcome to Hollywood star George Clooney after the actor got French citizenship— and took the opportunity to bash France, too. Trump, whose administration has backed antiimmigration parties in Europe, said key ally France had a “horrendous” problem with crime and immigration. An official decree seen by AFP on Monday showed that 64-year-old Oscar winner Clooney, his wife Amal Alamuddin Clooney, and their two children had become French citizens. “Good News! George and Amal Clooney, two of the worst political prognosticators of all time, have officially become citizens of France, which is, sadly, in the midst of a major crime problem because of their absolutely horrendous handling of immigration,” Trump said on his Truth Social network. In one of a string of posts on New Year’s Eve, Trump added that France’s alleged problems were “much like we had under Sleepy Joe Biden,” his Democratic predecessor. George Clooney’s (center) newly acquired French citizenship draws political backlash in France, with officials questioning a perceived double standard amid tougher language requirements for other applicants

Oceans Eleven star Clooney is a long-term Democratic supporter and fundraiser and a vocal critic of Trump. In his social media post, Trump recalled the fact that the actor backed Biden during the 2024 US presidential election but then “dumped” him, becoming concerned about the Democrat’s age during a fundraising event he hosted. “Clooney got more publicity for politics than he did for his very few and totally mediocre movies. He wasn’t a movie star at all, he was just an average guy who complained constantly about common sense in politics,” Trump said. Clooney’s newly acquired citizenship has also raised hackles in France. A junior member of President Emmanuel Macron’s government Wednesday criticized Clooney getting his passport despite speaking poor French, saying the move suggested a “double standard.” The news comes ahead of language requirements for citizenship being toughened for everyone else under new immigration rules from Jan. 1. AFP

LIFE

C4

FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

The calm after the color storm NOW & NEXT

Presenting the most graceful of them all, Cloud Dancer

Cloud Dancer brings softness into modern spaces

Cloud Dancer brings a sense of pause and balance to contemporary interiors and everyday spaces

Pantone’s Cloud Dancer sets the mood for 2026 with a softer, more reflective take on white

By Nickie Wang

I

N THE middle of riot and chaos, white has found its voice. And it speaks softly.

As you scroll through your social media feed, you may notice something quietly consistent in those obligatory New Year photos with friends or family. Many are dressed in white. Not the clinical kind. Not bridal or blinding. This version carries a name that sounds like a deep breath. Cloud Dancer, officially PANTONE 11-4201, is a soft, billowy white that feels less like a declaration and more like a pause. A visual exhale in an era of noise. Pantone Color Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman calls Cloud Dancer a response to collective overload. As distraction fills daily life, the shade offers clarity through restraint, stepping back rather than shouting. Eiseman says it counters digital clutter by simplifying the visual field, allowing the mind to rest and refocus. The Pantone Color Institute, which tracks global trends across fashion, design, entertainment, technology, travel, and shifting lifestyles, calls the hue an invitation to slow down. Laurie Pressman, the institute’s VP, likens

it to a blank canvas, saying this white “opens the door to new approaches by shedding outdated thinking and leaving room where ideas can drift and take shape.” Fashion designer Fred Leysa sees the choice as a cultural signal. As the first white named Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer points to a growing desire for calm after years of overstimulation from politics, work, social media, and daily life. “This white does not seek attention. It offers relief,” Leysa noted. In fashion, Cloud Dancer acts as a backbone, supporting rather than competing. It adds lightness to oversized silhouettes, padded shapes, and rounded forms, from puffy outerwear and down-filled coats to plush wools and soft textures. Leysa suggests focusing on texture, allowing volume, fabric, and form to stand out against the gentle white. The result feels modern, comforting, and quietly confident. Its airy quality also suits floaty

In fashion, Cloud Dancer supports shape, texture, and movement without demanding attention

chiffons and fluid jerseys that move easily from day to night. The shade feels wearable, adaptable, and timeless. Designer Roxoanne BaganoDizon suggests treating Cloud Dancer as a foundation rather than a full wardrobe reset. Used with intention, it anchors outfits without overwhelming them. With 2026 trends leaning toward comfort, sustainability, and pared-back elegance, the shade slides easily into monochromatic looks or balances bolder tones, metallics, and earthy palettes. Bagano-Dizon, who also teaches at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program, points to its flexibility across aesthetics, from minimal and romantic to streetwear and avant-garde. The key lies in starting with enduring pieces: blazers, tailored trousers, trench coats, coordinated sets, knitwear, flowy dresses, and layered looks designed for repeat wear. Styled well, Cloud Dancer carries an ease that feels intentional rather than precious. Linen, silk, wool, and leather elevate it further. Paired with charcoal, beige, or mocha, it feels grounded. Set beside bold color, it turns sharp and contemporary. Accessories offer an accessible entry point. Handbags, shoes, scarves, eyewear, and sneakers in Cloud Dancer add polish without fuss. Balance remains essential, Bagano-Dizon says. The color should serve personal style, not swallow it. Beyond fashion, Cloud Dancer

extends into beauty. As a clean base, it invites creativity. White nails read crisp and modern. Makeup thrives on contrast, from graphic black liner to soft pastels and subtle shimmer. In hair, the shade works solo or through deliberate color blocking, provided the choice feels considered rather than impulsive. In interiors, Cloud Dancer thrives. Applied to furniture, furnishings, or finishes, it builds rooms that breathe. Bathrooms take on spa-like calm. Kitchens feel more open. The result is visual quiet, where function and feeling meet. Leysa calls it an antidote to endless scrolling. Amid constant digital chatter, Cloud Dancer helps shape small sanctuaries at home, spaces that encourage stillness and clearer thinking. The same idea carries into packaging and multimedia. This white delivers a modern, high-end look that lets products speak on their own. It sharpens contrast, especially alongside black, and creates depth through texture, shadow, and subtle detailing such as blind embossing or white-on-white typography. Stripped of artifice, Cloud Dancer aligns naturally with ecoconscious values, pairing well with recycled papers, molded fibers, and materials that signal restraint and responsibility. The message, Leysa says, is simple. Cloud Dancer pulls gently toward stillness and intention, nudging consumers to slow down, choose thoughtfully, and support brands whose values feel personal and sincere.

What makes vision boards work

SINCE I was a kid, I saw every new year arriving with quiet hope and loud promises. I listed goals and prayers and imagined better versions of myself. Vision boards have long been part of my ritual—physical cutouts of dream bodies, destinations, and affirmations. But beyond the collage of photos and intention-setting, what makes vision boards work? The answer, I’ve come to realize upon reflection, is not just visualization. It’s not even discipline alone. Vision boards work best when they are grounded in three things: faith, action, and GRATITUDE. Faith, both in God and in yourself, creates this emotional permission to dream. Without faith, a vision board becomes a mere home display (or worse, clutter). Faith allows you to believe that what you are hoping for is possible. But faith without action remains wishful thinking, the same way they say that goals without deadlines are just dreams. Vision boards only come alive when paired

with bold decisions and the consistent effort to show up even when progress feels slow. Still, there is one element often overlooked— gratitude. Gratitude is not just a feel-good emotion—it is evidence. It is proof that good things have already happened and therefore can happen again. When gratitude becomes part of the vision board process, it increases the chance of success. Gratitude shifts your mindset from lack to abundance. You’re no longer creating from desperation but from trust. Psychologists have long studied the power of gratitude. Research by Robert Emmons, one of the world’s leading experts on gratitude, shows that grateful people are more optimistic, resilient, and motivated. Meanwhile, Martin Seligman, the founder of positive psychology, highlights gratitude as a key factor in well-being and sustained happiness. Gratitude trains the brain to notice opportunities, not just obstacles, and that awareness directly affects how we act on our goals. So how do we intentionally build gratitude into our vision boards? First, start with the past. Before adding images of what you want, write down what has already worked out for you, like answered prayers, unexpected help, or lessons that led you somewhere better. This reminds you that progress is not just

Vision boards become meaningful when intention is paired with consistent effort and follow-through

Gratitude plays a key role in turning goals into habits and ideas into action

imagination, it’s documented. Second, practice gratitude in advance. As you place goals on your board, write short statements of thanks as if they’ve already unfolded, not as entitlement, but as a form of trust. Gratitude reframes desire into expectancy. As Gen Z would say, “Delulu is the solulu (Delusion is the solution!).” Third, pair your board with a gratitude habit. This could be a nightly list of three good things you’re thankful for, or a weekly reflection on small wins. This is backed by science, a concept studied by Seligman, which he called Three Good Things. Vision boards are visual anchors,

but gratitude becomes the fuel. Lastly, revisit your board with faith based on realistic measures, not pressure. Gratitude removes the anxiety of timelines. As we step into 2026, may your vision board not just reflect what you want but also honor what has carried you here. May it be filled with faith, effort, and action. May a grateful heart remind you that good things are not only possible, they are already in motion. Happy New Year. This 2026, may you trust the process and lock in success. For your random thoughts, email the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.