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PUBLIC FUNDS MISUSE FELT IN HIGHER PRICES

‘Corruption hurting economy’ Lacson: Corruption issues drag down PBBM's ratings By Katrina Manubay and Ram Superable

AJORITY of Filipinos view corruption as having an impact on the economy, in particular on rising prices and weaker services, think-tank Stratbase Group said. Corruption issues also dragged down the ratings of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who first flagged anomalous flood control projects in his State of the Nation Address last year, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said. A Stratbase-commissioned Pulse Asia survey in December showed at least 38 percent of respondents identified making food prices more affordable as the most urgent action government leaders should take, followed by reducing or eliminating corruption to improve service deliv-

ery (31 percent) and creating more jobs and livelihood opportunities (21 percent), making these the highest-ranked concerns across regions and socio-economic classes. “Filipinos recognize that corruption has direct consequences on their daily lives. When public funds are misused, people feel it through higher prices, weaker public services, and fewer job opportunities,” said Stratbase Group founder and chief executive officer Victor Andres Manhit.

VOL. XXXIX • NO. 322 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026 •

TOP COMMUNITY CONCERNS Have more affordable food prices

Lessen or eliminate corruption

Create more jobs 21 Provide accessible education & healthcare

Source: Pulse Asia survey

Probe VP Sara’s ‘undeclared’ wealth—Palace By Charles Dantes PRESIDENTIAL Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro urged the Office of the Ombudsman and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to revisit allegations of undeclared wealth involving Vice President Sara Duterte, saying oversight bodies have the authority to initiate investigations on their own. In her personal vlog "Batas with Atty. Claire Castro," the Palace official discussed earlier accusations made in 2016 regarding purported Next page

PNP, LTFRB readies for postholiday exodus By Vince Lopez and Rio N. Araja

FIRST FRIDAY MASS. Roman Catholic Devotees jammed the Basilica Minore and National Shrine of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila for the

first Friday mass. The mass is part of the religious preparations for the annual Traslacion or the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9. Quiapo Church FB

POLICE security forces across the country are on alert to ensure the safety of millions of Filipinos who are expected to start traveling back to their homes in urban centers after a long Christmas break. For its part, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) alerted all its personnel in anticipation of the travel of millions of Filipino after the long Christmas and New year holidays. Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said police will remain Next page

Solons call out ICI’s work continues despite commissioners' quitting — Palace Leviste on P2m By Charles Dantes MALACAÑANG yesterday assured that the work of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) will proceed even after two commissioners stepped down last month. Presidential Communications Office Claire Castro said reports that the ICI’s investigation would cease by February are inaccurate, noting that the commission’s mandate remains in force despite the resignations of commissioners, for-

mer DPWH chief Rogelio Singson and Rossana Fajardo. "Let them not think the investigation will no longer proceed; there will be no slowing down. The enthusiasm to hold accountable those who should be held accountable remains," Castro said. She said President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. initiated the inquiry into suspected anomalies and remains determined to see the process through to completion.

bonus claim

By Katrina Manubay SEVERAL solons called out the statements made by Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste, the latest of which is his claim that congressmen received a P2-million “Christmas bonus” for approving the 2026 national budget. “First and foremost, there is a clear pattern of lies, falsities, and inaccuracies coming from Congressman Leviste, and this is yet another example of that,” Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Next page

Colder weather seen this month, says PAGASA GRAND WELCOME. A crowd of 250,000 people packed the SM Mall of

Asia grounds to witness the spectacular GMA Kapuso Countdown to 2026, where headliners AHOF and international star Bonnie Bailey, alongside various Kapuso Stars, led the nation's biggest New Year celebration. The event culminated in a magnificent, maximum-experience fireworks display, setting a brilliant tone for the year ahead.

THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday predicted temperatures of 7.5 degrees Celsius and below in parts of the Philippines this month. Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section Chief Ana Liza Solis attributed this to a cold surge and the northeast monsoon (Amihan). "So let us expect this January and Next page

HOMEBOUND. Travelers crowd the arrival and departure halls of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 , top photo, and a bus terminal in Cubao, Quezon City, bottom photo, as the post-holiday travel surge begins, with thousands hauling heavy luggage while returning to work and school following the Christmas and New Year break. Edd Castro

BI warns public vs. foreign-based scams By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has warned the public against foreign syndicates behind stock marketrelated scams targeting Filipinos into working overseas. The warning was raised following the repatriation of human trafficking

victims who claimed they were forced into fraudulent activities abroad. Eight Filipino victims, in their early 20s to late 30s, were repatriated on Dec. 31 after being rescued from scam operations overseas. They arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on an AirAsia flight from Cambodia via Malaysia. Next page

NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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DPWH to do EDSA rehab at night from Jan. 6 Phase 2 of the EDSA Rehabilitation project will proceed without implementing any road closures. The asphalt overlay will be done lane by lane (northbound and southbound) on weekdays from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., with the asphalted portions opened to traffic by 5 a.m. The first phase of the rehabilitation (reblocking and asphalt overlay)— from December 24, 2025, to January 5, 2026—is being done all day until 4 a.m. while from January 6, road works on weekdays will be from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. only. “In the second phase, the road works will occur during nighttime. There will also be no road closures during the daytime. By 4 a.m., they will begin mobilizing, and by 5 a.m., our roads must be passable. This makes a significant difference in terms of traffic management that we

will oversee during the EDSA rehabilitation,” said Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Romando Artes. The government set an 8-month schedule for the EDSA rehabilitation project, focusing initially on reblocking and asphalt overlays from Roxas Boulevard to Orense in the first phase. The rehabilitation project started on Christmas Eve and will last four months, with the second phase covering the remaining section of EDSA during an additional four months. As of January 1, asphalt overlay works along the dedicated EDSA Busway have been completed, and the following sections are now open for EDSA Busway bus operations: Southbound: From EDSA Orense to Buendia Avenue and Northbound: From Buendia Av-

enue to EDSA Orense. The MMDA reminded that private motorists are not allowed to use the inner lane, which is strictly dedicated to the EDSA Busway. “Private vehicles are strictly prohibited from entering the dedicated lane. To ensure order and safety, the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) is continuously being implemented by the MMDA,” the agency stated. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) earlier ordered bus operators to deploy additional units along the EDSA Busway in compliance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure mobility of commuters using the busway while the rehabilitation works along portions of the highway are ongoing. At least 80 personnel from the DOTr-Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) have been deployed on a 24-hour shifting basis to assist the MMDA and Philippine National Police personnel with traffic management, to help mitigate the effects of the EDSA rehabilitation, and to also assist commuters using

‘Corruption...

prosecution of those involved in corruption,” he said. “The message from the survey is clear. People want concrete economic relief alongside credible action against corruption, because these issues are deeply interconnected in everyday life," Manhit added. Lacson, for his part, said the President must remain committed to his anti-corruption stance despite getting lower ratings in recent surveys. "I hope the President will not waver in his remaining years in office," he said.

"I thought the momentum was already on his side with his famous 'Mahiya naman kayo!' SONA remark. Unfortunately, the Filipino people’s perception has not been kind to him." “With a more awakened and angrier citizenry who have never been exposed before to more detailed acts of corruption and plunder of their hard-earned tax money, our national leaders have to brace themselves to address more corruption issues in 2026,” Lacson added. Malacañang earlier said the President is unfazed by his latest approval

and trust ratings, noting that his decision to unmask anomalous flood control projects may be unpopular but is the right thing to do. “If the reason for the decline in the President’s ratings is his push to investigate those involved in anomalous flood control projects which has generated political noise, the President will not be bothered by the drop in ratings because what he did was a right decision, even if it may not be a popular decision, as many people and politicians will be affected,” Castro said in Filipino.

cast 7.5 degrees in the areas where we don't have observations," she added. Asked if this means those in Metro Manila can expect not to set aside their sweaters for the time being, the weather specialist confirmed there will still be surges of cold temperatures. "There is also a global effect from weakening of the polar vortex... This means that when the polar vortex weakens, the snow and cold winds scatter, dropping to the mid-latitude countries and possibly reaching tropical countries like the Philippines. The effect of that is our temperatures will become colder," Solis said.

Probe...

are issues like alleged undeclared wealth," Castro said. She asked whether the alleged bank accounts mentioned in earlier reports were declared in the Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth and if these accounts remained active. Castro also referred to complaints reportedly filed by civil society groups involving the vice president and called on the Ombudsman to clarify the status of any investigation. She stressed that her discussion referred to allegations already publicly reported and said the matter should be addressed by competent authorities.

By Joel E. Zurbano

EGINNING on January 6, road works along the 28.3-kilometer stretch of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) will take place during nighttime hours.

From A1

He said based on the survey conducted from December 12 to 15, 2025, Filipinos view corruption as an economic issue rather than a purely moral one. “The public is not presenting an either-or choice…They expect government leaders to address urgent economic concerns while at the same time ensuring accountability through investigation, arrest, and

Colder... From A1

entering February, in mountainous areas of Luzon — especially in the CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region) portion — will experience the predicted temperature, around 7.5 degrees Celsius by January and February," Solis said in mixed Filipino and English during an interview with DZMM. "It is even colder in the mountainous areas of CAR. However, we don't have any stations at the highest locations. It is even lower than the fore-

BI... From A1

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the victims were recruited through social media and online platforms, and were later forced into stock market scams. They were instructed to persuade fellow Filipinos to invest in fake stock trading platforms and bogus investment accounts controlled by the crime rings. Investigations showed that the who failed to meet quotas or refused orders were subjected to physical and psychological abuse, including intimidation and deprivation. On the same day, another group of 19 Filipino repatriates arrived at NAIA Terminal 1 on a Philippine

Solons... From A1

Ridon said in Filipino during a radio interview yesterday. The amount was supposedly distributed during the last week of December, after the ratification of the bicameral conference committee report. However, Ridon emphasized that the funds in question are part of the House of Representatives’ budget for maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE). “It is not true that there is a P2 million Christmas bonus. Funds were provided for congressional offices to support their activities and programs. These funds are part of the extraordinary miscellaneous expenses allocated to the offices and do not end up in the wallets of lawmakers,” he told DZMM. Ridon also said House members received only the 13th and 14th month pay, like other government employees. Likewise, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Adiong called Leviste “unfair and disingenuous” for accusing his col-

Airlines flight from Cambodia. Four of them reportedly left the country through an irregular route, or “backdoor,” in Palawan. “These criminal groups deceive Filipinos with promises of high-paying jobs and easy money, then force them to scam their own countrymen,” Viado said, stressing that legitimate employers do not require workers to engage in fraud or invest through unofficial platforms. Viado urged the public to be wary of unsolicited job offers and online investment schemes, and to verify opportunities through proper government agencies. He added that the BI is strengthening coordination with local and foreign law enforcement to dismantle scam networks and hold those responsible accountable. leagues of receiving the P2 million bonus when, in fact, they were clearly intended MOOE or disbursements used for the operational expenses of the representatives’ district office. “You can see the checks he presented. The mere fact that these were all issued under his name proves that they are well-recorded, audited, and within legal bounds… There is misrepresentation. The checks he provided to the media were actually for his district’s operational expenses and his salary,” he pointed out. Adiong said the Leviste apparently wants to paint himself in a positive light at the expense of other House members. “To impress upon the public that we are rotten? That the House is rotten and he’s the only one [clean]. If he doesn’t want to run his district office [with MOOEs] because I believe he’s a billionaire who does not need that kind of money, so be it. But to project that the House and all the members are rotten because we received MOOE, it’s not only unfair, it’s disingenuous,” the Mindanao solon stressed.

From A1

bank transactions allegedly linked to former president Rodrigo Duterte and the vice president. She said previous officials acknowledged that AMLC had transmitted bank transaction records to the Ombudsman as part of earlier inquiries. Castro questioned why, in her view, no comparable action was taken on more recent issues involving confidential funds linked to the vice president. "AMLC and the Ombudsman can investigate motu proprio when there

PNP,... From A1

visible in bus terminals and other major transportation hubs not only to secure the passengers, but to immediately respond to all peace and order concerns. “The return of our kababayans (countrymen) from their home provinces is part of our security plan. Our personnel on the ground were instructed to make their presence felt from bus stations and other transport hubs from the point of origin to the point of destination, especially in Metro Manila and key urban areas,” said Nartatez. Nartatez also said territorial police forces and the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) were instructed to increase police visibility in expected traffic gridlocks on highways and major thoroughfares that serve as entry points to urban areas. In Metro Manila, these included the South Luzon Expressway and North Luzon Expressway. He said coordination is also being done with local government units and other stakeholders for traffic management and smooth flow of vehicles amid the expected surge of vehicles. The initiatives also cover inspections and other road safety measures for passenger buses and other public utility vehicles. “We are expecting a huge volume of vehicles and this means that we have to anticipate traffic jams. And in this type of situation, the tendency to engage in road rage is high so we want to ensure that we would be able to respond in the soonest possible time for any eventuality,” said Nartatez. “But the best antidote to road rage is to plan your travel well and to be patient. Nothing can cause a headache on the road,” he added. Nartatez also advised motorists

the EDSA Busway. The DOTr reported that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed road reblocking and asphalt overlay works at the EDSA Buendia Station. "As per the latest update [from DPWH], the overlay works have been completed. 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," it stated. From December 28, 2025, to January 5, 2026, the planned repair works include: Concrete Reblocking Works Southbound (December 28, 2025 January 5, 2026) • EDSA corner Taft Avenue to FB Harrison • Near HomeExpo Building Depot to (Outer lane) to P. Celle Street • Along Ayala Underpass Exit to San Lorenzo Village Northbound (December 28, 2025 - January 5, 2026) • Roxas Boulevard Heritage Hotel to Sgt. Mariano • Park Avenue to EDSA Orense

to ensure the road worthiness of their vehicles before going on long travel to prevent incidents of vehicle breakdown along the way that may compromise their safety and that of their family. “Equally important is to ensure their mental and physical readiness for long driving. Let’s not drive if we are up late or if we are still hung over because your life and that of your family are at stake here,” he stressed. LTFRB chairman Vigor Mendoza II said he has already advised bus companies and other transport companies to ensure the road worthiness of their buses and vehicles to ensure a hassle-free travel of their clients. “The compliance of the bus companies and other transport operators will be checked and tested during the conduct of random and surprise inspections in coordination with other government agencies,” he said. “Our goal is to ensure not only the road worthiness of public utility vehicles but also the readiness of drivers — all are intended to prevent road crashes,” he added. Two fatal road accidents were recorded amid the Yuletide exodus. Mendoza said their goal is zero road crash as millions of passengers go back to urban areas after the holiday break. He said he has instructed all regional directors to ensure that they will immediately respond to any complaints and concerns raised by the commuters especially against erring taxi drivers. The LTO will monitor compliance among taxi companies and ride-hailing services in bus terminals, seaports and airports across the country. He called on the passengers to lodge their complaints through the LTFRB hotline 0956-7610739, vowing to immediately act on the complaints and concerns relating to public land transportation.

(inner lane) • Select Portions along EDSA from Orense to Shell McKinley Asphalt Overlay Northbound • December 28, 2025 - January 5, 2026: Tramo to E. Rodriguez (Inner lane to Outer lane) • December 29, 2025 - January 5, 2026: E. Rodriguez to Kalayaan Avenue (inner lane to outer lane) • December 31, 2025 - January 5, 2026: Roxas Boulevard to FB Harrison (inner lane to outer lane) • January 1, 2026 - January 5, 2026: FB Harrison to Tramo Bus Station (inner lane) • January 2, 2026 - January 5, 2026: Ayala Underpass to Urdaneta Subdivision (Inner lane to Outer lane) Southbound December 30, 2025 - January 5, 2026: Loring Street to Roxas Boulevard (inner lane to outer lane) • January 1, 2026 - January 5, 2026: From Ayala Underpass to Tramo Bus Station (inner lane) • January 3, 2026 - January 5, 2026: Palm Drive to Ayala Underpass (Inner lane to Outer lane)

Fuel prices seen mixed next week By Alena Mae S. Flores CONSUMERS can expect mixed oil price movements next week; with diesel probably going up by as much as P0.40 per liter, while gasoline may see a rollback or an increase of up to P0.10 per liter. Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas says the expected price adjustments are dependent on the price movement indication for week of Jan. 5, 2026 based on this week’s Mean of Platts Singapore and foreign exchange average (first 4 days) versus last week’s full week average. Bellas said that while the average of both diesel and gasoline MOPS prices this week have declined slightly compared to last week as regional refinery output recovered post turnaround, “the freight and premium components of the price buildup remained elevated due to growing concerns that the continuing geopolitical developments could disrupt oil supplies.” Rodela Romero, director of the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau, foresees a rollback across all products, including kerosene next week but she said the estimates exclude the operating cost of the oil companies and other premiums. Romero said gasoline may have a rollback of about P0.50 per liter, diesel by P0.15 and kerosene by P0.20 per liter. She said geopolitical risk/sentiment, expectations of global oversupply, weak demand expectations in major consumers like China and OPEC+ policy and market balance resulted to global oil prices softening.

‘ICI’s... From A1

Castro pointed out that the review of several questionable infrastructure projects is progressing on several tracks. Aside from the ICI, the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice continue to conduct their own probes, she noted. The Palace is also awaiting congressional action on a measure that would formally establish an independent commission to examine large-scale infrastructure issues. Concerns had been raised that the departure of several ICI members would halt the ongoing investigation into the "ghost" flood control projects. Castro, however, assured those fears are misplaced, emphasizing that accountability efforts remain underway. Last month, Commissioners Fajardo and Singson resigned two weeks apart. In September, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong also resigned as a special adviser to the Commission. With his colleagues' resignation, ICI Chairman Andres Reyes Jr. said the probe body’s focus has shifted to completing the already advanced investigation into multibillion-peso flood control projects.

NEWS IN BRIEF LTFRB eyes hassle-free travel of bus passengers THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is on full alert in anticipation of the surge of commuters after the long Christmas and New Year holidays. LTFRB chairman Vigor Mendoza II said he has advised bus companies and other transport firms to ensure the roadworthiness of their fleets to ensure the hassle-free travel of commuters coming home from the provinces.. “The compliance of the bus companies and other transport operators will be checked and tested during the conduct of random and surprise inspections in coordination with other government agencies,” Mendoza said in a statement. “Our goal is to ensure not only the roadworthiness of public utility vehicles, but also the readiness of drivers—all are intended to prevent road crashes,” he stressed. Maricel V. Cruz

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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‘2026 GAA to build more schools’ A By Ram Superable

S THE country awaits the enactment of the 2026 national budget, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian gave assurance that the forthcoming General Appropriations Act (GAA) is designed to significantly accelerate the construction of classrooms to address persistent shortages in public schools nationwide. The senator said the enrolled 2026 budget allocates P85 billion for the construction and repair of classrooms, reflecting a substantial increase aimed at easing congestion and improving learn-

ing conditions in the country. Of the total allocation, P65.9 billion is earmarked for the construction, replacement, and completion of school buildings from kindergarten to senior high school,

including facilities for technical and vocational courses. “We did not only allocate a larger budget for the construction of classrooms, we also ensured that the process would be accelerated through the active participation of various sectors,” said Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance. Under the GAA, the Department of Education is authorized to adopt multiple approaches to classroom construction, including partnerships with private entities to speed up delivery. The Department of Public Works and Highways may also enter into memoranda of agreement with qualified local government units, civil society organizations, non-government groups, and the

Armed Forces of the Philippines Corps of Engineers. Recently, the Senate approved on second reading Senate Bill No. 1482, or the proposed Classroom-building Acceleration Program Act, which seeks to address the country’s classroom backlog. The bill, sponsored by Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, allows local government units and civil society organizations to directly manage classroom construction projects under national standards and oversight. For 2026, the Department of Education has been granted a P1.38 trillion budget, with a significant portion directed toward classroom construction and the expansion of the school-based feeding program.

Avsegroup keeps safe, orderly Yule air travel MAJOR airports across the nation experienced nearly one million passengers daily during the holiday season, with the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) alone accommodating an average of 160,000 to 170,000 passengers a day. Despite the influx of air travelers, the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNPAvsegroup), in close partnership with airport authorities, maintained a safe, orderly, and secure aviation environment, particularly at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). “In light of this consistently high passenger volume, our law enforcement personnel exhibited unwavering vigilance and professionalism in safeguarding the safety and security of passengers, airport staff, and their families,” said Avsegroup director Brig. Gen. Dionisio Bartolome Jr. Bartolome said additional personnel were strategically assigned to NAIA and other significant airports to bolster security measures. Joel E. Zurbano

NTF-ELCAC pledges to sustain peace gains A SENIOR official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Friday reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustaining the government’s peace initiatives and preventing the resurgence of communist armed violence in 2026. In a statement, NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said preserving and maintaining peace is a “daily responsibility” of all Filipinos. “Lasting peace and genuine development are possible, but they are never automatic,” he said. While noting the tangible gains of the anti-insurgency body, Torres said complacency has no place in the work ahead. Rex Espiritu

US NAVY RESCUES PINOY FISHERMEN. The Philippine Coast Guard receives three Filipino fishermen rescued by a United States Navy vessel about 50 nautical miles west of Bolinao, Pangasinan on New Year’s Day. The trio are identified as Michael Lebios, Michael John Lebios, and Lorjun Lupague, all of Sitio Pocdol, Barangay Cato, Infanta, Pangasinan. PCG photo

E-trikes now prohibited on major roads in metropolis—LTO By Rio N. Araja THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has set in motion the strict enforcement of a ban on e-trikes on major highways in Metro Manila. The prohibition takes effect on Jan. 2 along Epifanio de los Santos Ave., Circumferential Road 5, Roxas Blvd., and Quirino Ave to Magallanes-South Luzon Expressway in accordance with existing policies of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said “this implementation is based on general road safety considerations.” “These major roads are designed for faster and larger vehicles, and are not suitable for e-trikes due to the speed of traffic flow, volume of vehicles, and width of the roads. The coexistence of slow and light vehicles on this type of road poses a clear risk to all road users,” he explained. The LTO stressed that the measure was not to disallow the use of e-trikes

in general, but to prevent accidents and ensure safety and order on major roads, while awaiting more comprehensive joint guidelines from the Department of Transportation and other relevant agencies. “Let us understand that this step is being taken for the safety of all road users. We understand that many of us rely on e-trikes as a means of transportation, which is why the LTO is ready to work with local governments and industry sectors to develop safe and suitable routes

Motorcycles account for 71% of road mishaps on holidays

US Navy ship rescues three Pinoys found adrift at SCS

MOTORCYLISTS accounted for the

SMASH-UP. A passenger bus and a pickup truck figure in a smash-up along the

Diversion Road inPallua, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan on Friday. Jan. 2. Police said nobody was reported killed in the crash, although the bus’ front panel was totally destroyed.

majority of road accidents recorded by the Department of Health, representing 71 percent of all reported cases during the recent holiday monitoring period. The DOH also reported seven fatalities from separate road incidents, including five motorcycle riders and two pedestrians. From Dec. 21, 2025 to Jan. 2, this year, 10 DOH sentinel hospitals recorded a total of 1,113 road crash injury cases. The figure marked an 82-percent rise compared to the same period in 2024, highlighting a sharp year-on-year surge in traffic-related mishaps. Motorcycle-related incidents dominated the tally, with 787 cases involving motorcycles and five of the seven reported deaths linked to motorcycle crashes. The DOH also noted that 135 people involved in road crashes were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. A significant safety gap was observed as 965 patients were reported not to have used protective gear such as helmets or seat belts. Health officials reiterated that road safety can be improved by consistently wearing certified helmets and seat belts, avoiding driving while tired or intoxicated, and following speed limits and traffic signs. The agency also urged motorists to get adequate rest before traveling and to refrain from using mobile phones while driving to reduce the risk of road accidents. Ram Superable

By Rex Espiritu THE United States Navy’s 7th Fleet on Friday (Manila time) said it rescued three Filipino fishermen whose boat was found adrift in the South China Sea on New Year’s Day. In a statement, the 7th Fleet’s Public Affairs unit said the crew of the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14) spotted the distressed fishing boat at around 12:45 p.m. “The ship launched a rigid-hulled inflatable boat to recover the fishermen,” the statement read. “The three individuals, later identified as citizens of the Republic of the Philippines, were brought aboard Cesar Chavez and evaluated by the ship’s medical staff. All three were found to be in good health,” it added.

for e-trikes in the coming days,” Lacanilao noted. “We also encourage citizens to follow the rules and cooperate to maintain the safe flow of traffic,” he cited. Those caught operating e-trikes on prohibited thoroughfares face penalties in accordance with Republic Act No. 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code and Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01, including the imposition of fines and the possible impoundment of the e-trike.

Philippine authorities were promptly notified of the incident, the 7th Fleet said. According to the statement, the fishermen said their boat’s engine conked out after taking on water due to huge waves, leaving them unable to maneuver and adrift for several days. The fishermen reported left port on Dec. 27, and survived by rationing their remaining food and water until help arrived. US authorities coordinated with the Philippine government to ensure the fishermen’s safe return to the country. “Professional and vigilant watch standing procedures enabled the crew to locate and recover the distressed fishermen quickly and safely. Cesar Chavez conducts routine logistics and resupply missions in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet,” the US Navy said.

AS MODERN AS THEY COME. A digital monitor at the East Avenue Medical Center displays real-time tally of firework-related injuries, including the degree of physical damage to the victims. While most victims were discharged after receiving first-aid treatment, some were ordered to stay put for further assessment. Edd Castro

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217 ‘pawikan’ hatchlings back in Cavite beach By Dennis Abrina NAIC, CAVITE – Some 217 hatchlings were symbolically released on the beach of Naic on the first day of January in Barangay Labac under the care of the Samahan ng Labac Pawikan Patrollers. “This is a meaningful way to herald the new year. These hatchlings symbolize hope and our love for the environment,” SLPP Leader and former Labac barangay chairperson Roger Bilugan said. The Olive Ridley turtle eggs were rescued by pawikan patrollers on the sea shore of Barangay Labac on October 31, 2025. According to the SLPP, some 106 nest holes have been recorded since September 2025. The group is taking care of the eggs until they hatch and can be released into their natural habitat. It takes about 60 days before the turtle eggs hatch. Five of the seven sea turtle species native to the Philippines, including the Olive Ridley, are endangered.

NEW LIFE, NEW YEAR. Some 217 Olive Ridley hatchlings are released into their natural habitat at a ‘pawikan’ hatchling facility in Barangay Labac in Naic, Cavite. to herald the new year. Dennis Abrina

DSWD readies P138.4m Mayon aid IN BRIEF T

HE Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has prepositioned more than P138.4 million worth of response aid following the raising of Mayon Volcano’s alert level from 1 to 2.

Suspect in N. Cotabato Dec. 31 attack shot dead

KIDAPAWAN CITY – Police shot dead one of two suspects in the New Year’s Eve grenade attack in Matalam, North Cotabato, during an operation Thursday night. Lt. James Warren Caang, spokesperson for the Cotabato Police Provincial Office, said the suspect died in a shootout with Matalam police in Barangay Kilada at about 8 p.m. Thursday. Pursuit operations continue for the second suspect. “The attackers seemingly shifted to the revelers as ‘soft targets’ for retaliation against the anti-drug campaign,” Caang said in a radio interview Friday. He said the two men on a motorcycle targeted New Year’s revelers, wounding 22 people, including nine minors. Initial investigation linked the attack to the police anti-drug campaign in the municipality. Philippine National Police chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities will not stop until those responsible for the attack are apprehended.

BI: 2 foreign fugitives barred from entering PH IMMIGRATION authorities barred two foreign fugitives — an alleged drug trafficker and a sexual abuser — from entering the country on New Year’s Day after they were flagged through an advanced passenger screening system. In a statement on Friday, the BI said the two were intercepted in the early hours of January 1 after alerts were generated by the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS), which allows authorities to identify high-risk passengers before arrival. The first passenger, Battulga Ganbold, a Mongolian national arriving from Vietnam, was denied entry after verification of an outstanding arrest warrant in South Korea for a drug-related offense. The second, Ercan Mutlu, a Turkish national who flew in from Japan, was also excluded after authorities confirmed he was wanted in Turkey for sexual exploitation and prostitution. Vito Barcelo

Walang Gutom Kitchen hailed for positive impact THE Department of Social Welfare and Development has welcomed the commendation by Secretary Larry Gadon of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation on the Walang Gutom Kitchen (WGK), a flagship food kitchen program of the social welfare agency. DSWD spokesperson Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao expressed gratitude to Gadon for his support to the WGK. “(The commendation is) a validation that what we do is correct and meaningful when it is appreciated by our partners, except our beneficiaries. Under the leadership of our Secretary Rex Gatchalian, and in accordance with the vision of our President for a hunger-free Philippines, the DSWD plans to further intensify Walang Gutom Kitchen with our partners,” Dumlao said. The WGK was launched on December 16, 2024, led by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos. Maricel Cruz

SOUVENIR. A vendor sells Jesus Nazareno calendars outside the Quiapo Church in Manila on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. Devotees flocked to the church for the year’s First Friday Mass. Yancy Lim

Manhunt on for 2 Sokor fugitives–Immigration THE Bureau of Immigration has launched an intensive nationwide manhunt for two South Korean fugitives, with enforcement units mobilized to locate and apprehend them. In a statement Friday, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified the fugitives as Lee Jingyu, 32, and Yang Heejun, 44, both foreign nationals facing deportation cases with the agency. He said the bureau is working closely with law enforcement agencies to track the fugitives’ possible movements and ensure their swift recapture. According to reports, the custodial force team at the BI Warden’s Facil-

ity (BIWF) in Muntinlupa City, during a routine inspection on Jan. 1, discovered a rope tied at the rear portion of a ward gate. A subsequent headcount and inspection of all wards showed that Lee and Yang were unaccounted for. This prompted security personnel to immediately place the facility in total lockdown, while a thorough search of all the perimeter sections was conducted. Lee was arrested by the BI Fugitive Search Unit in Pasay City on Nov. 17, 2025. He has a red notice from the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) for drug smuggling. Yang, on the other hand, was ar-

rested by BI operatives in Angeles City, Pampanga in 2022. He is wanted in his country for burglary, theft, and related offenses, and is likewise the subject of an Interpol red notice. The BI reiterated that both fugitives pose a serious risk to public safety and assured the public that efforts to locate and apprehend them are ongoing and intensified. “We have sought the assistance of the Bureau of Corrections, where the BIWF is located, and the National Bureau of Investigation so we may be able to trace areas where the duo could have taken,” Viado said.

Claudio Villareal, chief of the Disaster Response Management Division, said the DSWD-5’s priority is ensuring the safety and food security of families that may be affected by increased volcanic activity. He said relief supplies and standby funds have been prepared for possible deployment. The prepositioned resources include a P3-million standby fund; 11,164 family food packs; 15,696 non-food items; 16,580 ready-to-eat food boxes; and 49,054 other food items. Villareal said disaster monitoring has been intensified and resources immediately mobilized. The DSWD official also asked the public to remain vigilant and avoid the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone. “We have plans to meet with partner local government units by next week in preparation for the response. Ongoing assessments are being conducted and we are already drafting the request for augmentation to the central office,” Villareal said. Based on the latest bulletin from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Mayon recorded 43 rockfall events and two volcanic earthquakes, along with faint crater glow and ground deformation indicating inflation of the volcano’s edifice.

Magna Carta for public disaster risk reduction workers sought

By Maricel V. Cruz

A LAWMAKER on Friday pushed for the passage of the proposed Magna Carta for Public Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Workers, which aims to improve the working conditions and grant benefits to government personnel who often risk their lives to save others. Parañaque Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan, author of House Bill (HB) 5239, cited the need for Congress to enact a measure that recognizes the valiant efforts of public DRRM workers to protect communities and help disaster victims recover from calamities. He said DRRM workers, while exposing themselves to significant risks – including physical danger, psychological stress, and occupational health gaps, especially during disaster response operations – face the challenge of insuffi-

cient benefits. “Our proposed measure seeks to address these inadequacies by institutionalizing measures that will promote their welfare,” Yamsuan said in a statement. “Our DRRM workers have a very important job as disaster response and risk reduction frontliners, which is why we should also give importance to, and safeguard, their welfare. Providing them the benefits that they should be entitled to will serve as incentive and inspiration for them to continue with their profession as protectors of our communities from calamities,” he added. Yamsuan’s HB 5239 proposes the grant of hazard allowance; access to protective equipment, free vaccinations, and other prophylactic medicines; and compensation for work-related injuries and illnesses for public DRRM workers.

YEAR OF THE HORSE. Tourists ride and interact with horses at UCM Adventure Park in San Mateo, Rizal, on Friday, January 2, 2026, as families and visitors enjoy outdoor recreational activities at the start of the Year of the Horse. Manny Palmero

OPINION

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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EDITORIAL Honor Blanco Cabie

Preserving PH’s rich reg’l literatures THE Philippines verily has rich regional literatures which act as a crucial tool for passing down heritage, strengthening national identity by showcasing the all-round Filipino culture, and fostering understanding among different ethnic groups. As among those deeply involved in the preservation of regional literatures, having been for six years with the Committee on Literary Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, we have seen that writers focus on specific local settings, lifestyles, ethnic histories, and cultural practices, while offering veritable reflections of community life that resonate deeply with readers. The Philippines has distinct geographical features and over 100 ethnolinguistic groups, each contributing unique stories, customs, and perspectives. The use of vernacular languages (instance Cebuano, Ilokano, Bikolnon, Pangasinense, Waray, Hiligaynon) in regional works preserves unique linguistic expressions and deepens cultural understanding, Bicol’s Charm Verses The palm-dotted Bicol peninsula, comprising the provinces of the two Camarines, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate, itself has in its trove charm verses which exploit the possibilities of words in folk poetry and narratives with mythical content. The region also has corridos or metrical romances which became the main reading materials in the region for many years. Like other regions overwhelmed by Spanish influences, Bicol also has the comedia or the moro moro which, in an earlier clime, had a comedia writer and a theater group. The region boasts the existence of protest comedias like Comedia ni Hadeng Grimaldo sa Reinong Irlanda by Sabas Armenta which deviates from the Moro as villain theme. Another comedia, Drama en Comedia de la Vida Conde Urbano by Juan Miraflor, advocates democracy and is partial to casting ballots for town leaders. The region also has the rawitdawit or narrative poem which was a vehicle of social and political criticism, not to mention personal poems which mushroomed right through the peninsula and at least 20 translations of Rizal’s Mi Ultimo Adios. Eastern Visayas literature The literature of the Eastern Visayas, which refers to literature in Waray and Cebuano by writers from Samar and Leyte – the southern part of Leyte speaks Cebuano – has started to be collected, recorded and documented by scholars and researchers. This movement has been jump-started by the interest of German priests who were managing a university in Tacloban City. Early chronicles of East Visayan literature date back to the 17th century when Spanish Jesuit, Fr. Ignatio Francisco Alzina, documented the poetic forms like the candu, haya, ambahan, canogon, bical, ba-

lac, siday and awit. He also described the early forms of narratives in the region, the susumaton and posong. At the same time theater presentations – the performances of poetry, rituals and mimetic dances – breathed through the environment. Dances mimed the joys, grief, and other activities of the ancient Waray. According to scholars and authorities of East Visayan literature, modern East Visayan literature, especially Waray, revolves around poetry and drama which were churned out from the 1900s to date.

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The use of vernacular languages in regional works preserves unique linguistic expressions and deepens cultural understanding Waray poetry particularly blossomed with the publication of An Kaadlawon, the first Waray newspaper. The two islands of Samar and Leyte had magazines which published articles and literary works in Spanish and Waray, including, in Leyte, the satirical poems of Bagong Katipunero, Luro, Datoy Anilod, Ben Tamaka and Kalantas – pseudonyms which allowed the poets to criticize corrupt government officials, made fun of people’s vices, and attack the women of the area for adopting trendy social behavior. Central Visayas literature Sandwiched between the Eastern Visayas and the Western Visayas is Central Visayas, where Cebuano literature, both oral and written, depicts the character of many who live in Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Negros Oriental and the southern part of Leyte and some parts of Mindanao. The Cebuanos, who speak Bisaya or Cebuano language, the mother tongue of about one-fourth of the country’s 117 million people, have a rich oral tradition. This includes legends associated with particular localities, like the Maria Caco legends of southern Cebu and those of Lapulapu and his father Datu Manggal of Mactan. They also have folktales like the fable Haring Ganggis ug Haring Leon, which warn of abusive be havior by the dominant group. Many of the tales reflect lessons in life and as many suggest the intrinsic worth of humor, wit and resourcefulness, as can be read in Juan Pusong trickster tales. Cebuano literature also has plates for the early poetic forms of garay (verses), harito (shaman’s prayers), tigmo (riddles) and panultihon (proverbs).

Greenwash cannot erase Philippine rights By Jose Antonio Goitia THE landscape of modern geopolitics is increasingly defined by the manipulation

of language. Today, we are witnessing a calculated attempt by China to cloak its illegal control of Scarborough Shoal in the soft, virtuous language of environmentalism. However, a change in vocabulary does not equate to a change in legality. Conservation cannot erase international law, and polished narratives cannot displace the sovereign rights of the Philippines. The Costume of Conservation Chinese state-linked outlets have synchronized a campaign to portray Beijing as the “responsible steward” of Scarborough Shoal. In this manufactured reality, Filipino fishermen—who have frequented these waters for generations—are recast as ecological threats. This is not a scientific endeavor; it is a tactical one. By using measured, academic tones, the message seeks to normalize occupation and marginalize the Philippines. This is not the first time power has tried to dress occupation in softer words. What

has changed is the costume. Today, it is conservation. Law Before Labels We must return to the bedrock of facts: Scarborough Shoal lies within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.

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A change in vocabulary does not equate to a change in legality This is not an opinion; it is a matter of record affirmed by the 2016 Arbitral Ruling under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Environmental language does not overwrite legal reality. You cannot “conserve” what you do not lawfully own, and you cannot accuse a nation of trespass in waters that belong to it by right. To frame the Philippines as an ecological interloper in its own maritime zone inverts both law and logic. The Erasure of History

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Mayon, no bone-chilling blast, please

AYON, among 24 active volcanoes in the Philippines, has prompted warnings for vigilance after signaling a potential hazardous eruption earlier this week. Volcanologists have raised the volcano’s alert to Level 2 following increased shallow magmatic unrest, marked by significant rockfalls and ground swelling. The 2,463-meter-high Mayon, visible beyond 200 kilometers across the Bicol Peninsula, has had several activity periods, with significant eruptive phases in 2018 (lava flows, pyroclastic flows) and more recent minor events like phreatic or steam eruptions in early 2024 (Feb 4, May 30, Jul 18, Aug 25), and observations of new lava, continuous ground deformation and rockfall events last month, indicating ongoing unrest rather than a single “last” eruption. Mayon, an active stratovolcano in Albay and popular tourist spot, is renowned for its near “perfect cone” because of its symmetric conical shape, is regarded as sacred in Philippine mythology Last month, new lava spines were observed at the summit, signaling shallow magma and increased rockfall, leading to heightened monitoring by volcanologists. These latest signs of unrest are similar to pre-eruption signs before May-

on’s 2023 activity, indicating a greater chance of eruption, which raises the need for vigilance and for the tens of thousands of people in surrounding towns to avoid the 6-km permanent danger zone or PDZ. We join in the call by authorities for people within the danger zone to be vigilant and stay away when necessary.

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We join in the call by authorities for people within the 6-km permanent danger zone to be vigilant Towns around Mayon, like Legazpi, Guinobatan, Camalig, Oas and Tiwi in Albay, have populations ranging from tens of thousands to over 200,000, with the entire Albay province nearing 1.4 million people as of mid-2025, showing the dense population surrounding the volcano. During volcanic unrest, from nearly 40,000 to 110,000 people across numerous villages in danger zones face

risks from hazards like ashfall and pyroclastic flows, according to local officials. We are gladdened that following Mayon’s upgrade to Alert Level 2 on Thursday, the PDRRMC-APSEMO immediately issued advisories prohibiting entry into the 6-km PDZ, restricting All-Terrain Vehicle rides, closing Mayon Skyline, and placing local units on alert for potential evacuations, as increased rockfall events signal potential hazardous magmatic eruption. PDRRMC-APSEMO refers to the joint advisory or coordination between the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office, a leading agency in disaster preparedness in Albay which work together to issue warnings, coordinate responses, and ensure public safety during emergencies like typhoons or floods, often involving pre-emptive actions and resource mobilization. The Philippines has many volcanoes because it sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped zone where the Philippine Sea Plate and Eurasian Plate collide, causing one plate to slide under the other. This process melts the crust, creating magma that rises to form volcanic arcs, resulting in numerous active volcanoes like Mayon, Taal, and Pinatubo, making the country geologically very active.

Dress for success: Mexican president’s ideological attire SAN PEDRO MARTIR – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s wardrobe is more than a statement of style; it has become known as a canvass for her political message of advancing women’s and Indigenous rights. The leftist leader, Mexico’s first woman president, proudly uses small-scale, local tailors and shuns “those brands that are super expensive,” in her own words. Rather, she supports “the weavers, the embroiderers, all those who use backstrap looms in our country -- mostly women -- who are a source of national pride,” the 63-year-old recently told journalists. The Mexican government has taken on famous brands such as Adidas, Shein, Zara and Carolina Herrera for the alleged cultural appropriation of traditional designs. And in her own fashion choices, Sheinbaum has similarly chosen to give credit where she says it’s due, and to uplift those she can along the way. “Her ideology has always been very focused on people’s rights, on equality; even in her style of dress,” according to Mexican image consultant Gabriela Medina. ‘Feminist resistance’ Sheinbaum was included on The New York Times list of 67 most stylish people of 2025 -- the only politician in the group. One person responsible for her look is Olivia Trujillo, who runs a small tailor shop from her home in the bustling neighborhood of San Pedro Martir on the outskirts of Mexico City. “Her favorite colors, without a doubt, I would say are purple and burgundy,” the 63-year-old pattern-maker and tailor told

AFP amid her sewing machines and a mannequin on which she assembles the presidential wardrobe. Trujillo was recently called to the National Palace for the final fitting of a purple dress with finely embroidered flowers that Sheinbaum wore in December to her first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Washington.

“The color purple is associated with power, authority, luxury, royalty, spirituality, and sobriety,” Medina said of Sheinbaum’s choice. It is also the color “that the feminist resistance movement has embraced,” she added. ‘Image shapes authority’ Another emblematic Sheinbaum choice was the dress she wore for her October 2024 swearing-in: a knee-length, ivory creation with embroidered wildflowers

cascading down one side. The upper part was left plain “so that the presidential sash would stand out,” recalled Trujillo. The flowers were painstakingly handsewn onto the fabric by Claudia Vazquez, a 43-year-old Zapotec Indigenous woman who told AFP she had nearly given up on embroidery, her first love. Sheinbaum’s interest in her art had “changed her life,” the trained business administrator said in Oaxaca in southern Mexico, where she now plies her art. In the country’s center, in the village of San Isidro Buen Progreso, lives another embroiderer whose services the president has enlisted. Virginia Arce, 48, decorated the formal gown Sheinbaum wore in September when she became the first woman to give the Cry of Independence -- a call for revolt against Spanish rule still celebrated every year. “The president chose the tones and a bird she really liked --it was a swallow,” Arce recalled. The task took her two months but the result was worth it when she saw the head of state step out onto the presidential balcony in her handiwork. It was the day “that has brought me the most satisfaction,” said Arce. Gender analyst Laura Raquel Manzo, points to the danger of stereotyping women by analyzing what they wear -- traditionally not a scrutiny applied to male leaders. In this case, however, ignoring Sheinbaum’s deliberate dress choices would be “to deny how image shapes authority,” said Manzo. AFP

Long before patrol vessels or policy briefings existed, Filipino fishermen were working these waters. Their presence is historical, not incidental. They did not arrive at Scarborough as violators; they arrived as sons of the sea, continuing a livelihood older than any modern claim. Casting them as illegal actors is an attempt to erase lived history and recast tradition as transgression. Furthermore, China’s own reports contain a glaring contradiction: they assert that the reef ecosystem remains generally healthy. If the reef is indeed healthy, the accusation of Filipino “destruction” falls apart. If it is not, any fair assessment must reckon with years of Chinese blockades, the presence of massive coast guard vessels, and the disruption of traditional balances. The Palawan Fiction The recent, baseless suggestions that

Palawan is somehow subject to Chinese ownership represent a new low in historical revisionism. Palawan has never been Chinese territory—not by history, not by treaty, and not by law. It is an integral part of the Philippine archipelago, recognized globally and administered continuously by Manila. When falsehoods grow more expansive, they also grow more desperate. Palawan is not disputed, not negotiable, and not up for revision. Allowing such distortions to go unanswered would normalize the unacceptable. Clarity, in this case, is a duty. Institutional Resolve The Philippines has met these challenges with steadiness rather than spectacle. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the nation has anchored its response in law and alliancebuilding. The Philippine Coast Guard remains on the front lines, documenting incidents

with professional restraint, while the Department of National Defense, led by Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, has rejected fabricated claims with absolute clarity. This is not posturing; it is governance. A Steady and Lawful Resolve Patriotism today does not require raised voices; it requires discipline and confidence in the law. Sovereignty is not decided by who publishes the most reports or who crafts the most elaborate environmental narratives. It is decided by law, history, and the dignity of a people who refuse to be written out of their own seas. On that foundation, the Philippines remains steady, lawful, and unyielding. (The author, who holds a master’s in national security administration and a doctorate in philosophy, is the Chairman Emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya, Peoples Alliance for Democracy and Reforms, Liga Independencia Pilipinas and Filipinos Do Not Yield Movement.)

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

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The Mexican government has taken on famous brands such as Adidas, Shein, Zara and Carolina Herrera for the alleged cultural appropriation of traditional designs

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

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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China military drills near Taiwan raise tensions—US

THE APOCALYPSE. Mourners gather in front of flowers and candles laid near the site where a fire ripped through a crowded bar during New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Alpine ski resort town of Crans-Montana on Jan. 1, 2026. Around 40 people were killed and over 100 injured when the fire ripped through the as young revelers rang in the new year, police said. Police, firefighters and rescuers rushed to the popular resort, set to host the Ski World Cup from Jan. 30, after the fire broke out in the early hours of New Year’s Day. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC—Chinese war games around Taiwan “unnecessarily” spiked tensions in the region, the US State Department said Thursday (Friday, Manila time) , calling on Beijing to “cease its military pressure.” “China’s military activities and rhetoric toward Taiwan and others in the region increase tensions unnecessarily. We urge Beijing to exercise restraint, cease its military pressure against Taiwan, and instead engage in meaningful dialogue,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said in a statement. Beijing launched missiles and deployed dozens of fighter jets, navy ships and coastguard vessels on

Monday and Tuesday to encircle Taiwan, saying the drills simulated a blockade of the self-ruled island’s main ports. Taipei condemned the exercises as “highly provocative.” China claims that democratic Taiwan is part of its territory and has refused to rule out using force to annex it. “The United States supports peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposes unilateral changes to the status quo, including by force or coercion,” Pigott said. China again defended the drills as “legitimate” on Friday, and warned countries to “stop stirring up trouble on the Taiwan Strait issue.” AFP

Swiss probers rush to identify fire victims C RANS-MONTANA, Switzerland – Investigators raced on Friday to identify the victims of a fire that ripped through a bar in the Swiss Alps town of Crans-Montana, turning a New Year’s celebration into one of the country’s worst tragedies. It is not yet clear what set off the blaze at Le Constellation, killing around 40 people and injuring about 115 others, many seriously. Bystanders described scenes of panic and chaos as people tried to break the windows to escape and others, covered in burns, poured into the street.

Swiss police warned it could take days or even weeks to identify everyone who perished, leaving an agonizing wait for family and friends. “We’ve tried to reach our friends. We took loads of photos and posted them on Instagram, Facebook, all possible social networks to try to find

them,” said Eleonore, 17. “But there’s nothing. No response.” “Even the parents don’t know,” she added. The exact number of people who were at the bar when it went up in flames remains unclear, and police have not specified how many are still missing. Le Constellation had a capacity of 300 people, plus another 40 people on its terrace, according to the CransMontana website. Swiss President Guy Parmelin, who took over on Thursday, called the fire “a calamity of unprecedented,

identify the victims and return their bodies to the families as quickly as possible.” The fire broke out around 1:30 am Thursday at Le Constellation, a bar popular with young tourists. “We thought it was just a small fire—but when we got there, it was war,” Mathys, from neighboring Chermignon-d’en-Bas, told AFP. “That’s the only word I can use to describe it: the apocalypse. It was terrible.” Authorities have declined to speculate on what caused the tragedy, saying only that it was not an attack. AFP

Brazil’s ex-leader Bolsonaro returns to prison after medical treatment

Maduro elusive on US attack, open to talks CARACAS—President Nicolas Maduro Thursday dodged a question about an alleged US attack on a dock in Venezuela but said he was open to cooperation with Washington after weeks of American military pressure. “Wherever they want and whenever they want,” Maduro said of the idea of dialogue with the United States on drug trafficking, oil and migration in an interview on state TV. Maduro’s government has neither confirmed nor denied what President Donald Trump announced Monday: a US attack on a docking facility that served Venezuelan drug trafficking boats. Asked point-blank if he confirmed or denied the attack, Maduro said Thursday “this could be something we talk about in a few days.” The attack would amount to the first known land strike of the US military campaign against drug trafficking from Latin America. Trump on Monday said the United States hit and destroyed a docking area for alleged Venezuelan drug boats. Trump would not say if it was a military or CIA operation or where the strike occurred, noting only that it was “along the shore.” “There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs,” he told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. “So we hit all the boats and now we hit the area, it’s the implementation area, that’s where they implement. And that is no longer around.” AFP

terrifying proportions”, and announced that flags would be flown at half mast for five days. Local police commander Frederic Gisler said authorities were “in close contact with the victims’ families, whom we are informing in real time, as well as with the various embassies involved.” “Given the international nature of the Crans resort, we can expect foreign nationals to be among the victims,” he told reporters. The canton’s chief prosecutor, Beatrice Pilloud, said significant resources have been deployed “to

MEDICATION-INDUCED PARANOIA. A Federal Police convoy escorting

former Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro leaves the DF Star Hospital, where he underwent inguinal hernia surgery and a phrenic nerve block procedure, in Brasilia on Jan 1, 2026. 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. AFP

BRASILIA—Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro left a hospital Thursday (Friday, Manila time) to return to prison and resume serving a 27-year sentence for plotting a coup. In a ruling published earlier in the day judges denied a request from Bolsonaro’s lawyers to grant him house arrest on health grounds. Bolsonaro, 70, had been hospitalized for more than a week as he underwent surgery for a groin hernia and then a procedure to treat recurring bouts of hiccups. “Contrary to what the defense alleges, there has been no worsening of Jair Messias Bolsonaro’s health condition,” Judge Alexandre de Moraes stated in his decision denying house arrest. 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. On Thursday Bolsonaro was seen leaving the DF Star Hospital in Brasilia in police custody to go back to a small room where he is serving his sentence at a federal police facility. In September the Supreme Court found Bolsonaro guilty of conspiring to stay in power after narrowly losing 2022 elections to leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Prosecutors said the plot, which included a plan to assassinate Lula, failed because of a lack of support from military top brass. Bolsonaro, an ally of US President Donald Trump, dismissed the trial as a “witch hunt” aimed at preventing him from running for president again in 2026. AFP

N. Korean leader’s daughter fuels succession speculation with mausoleum visit SEOUL—The North Korean leader’s daughter Kim Ju Ae has made her first public visit to a mausoleum housing her grandfather and great-grandfather, state media images showed Friday, further solidifying her place as likely next in line to run the nuclear-armed dictatorship. The Kim family has ruled North Korea with an iron grip for decades, and a cult of personality surrounding their so-called “Paektu bloodline” dominates daily life in the isolated country. Current leader Kim Jong Un is the

third in line to rule in the world’s only communist monarchy, following his father Kim Jong Il and grandfather Kim Il Sung. The two men—dubbed “eternal leaders” in state propaganda—are housed in the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, a vast mausoleum in downtown Pyongyang. The state-run Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim Jong Un had visited the palace, accompanied by top officials. Images released by the agency showed daughter Ju Ae alongside him.

South Korea’s spy agency said last year she was now understood to be the next in line to rule North Korea after she accompanied her father on a high-profile visit to Beijing. And Cheong Seong-chang at Seoul’s Sejong Institute said he expected her to soon be “formally confirmed as the next successor both domestically and internationally”. Cheong, author of a book on the Kim leadership, said her placement in the center of the front row during her visit to the place—a place typically reserved for her father—was

Embattled Venezuela frees 88 jailed dissenters

LEFT-WING SUCCESS. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani speaks with

Nadege Romulus (right) as he visits her apartment in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, Friday, Manila time, on his first day in office. The young upstart of the US left, was sworn in Friday to take over as New York mayor for a term sure to see him cross swords with President Donald Trump. After the clocks struck midnight, bringing in 2026, Mamdani took his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop to begin managing the United States’ largest city. AFP

CARACAS—Venezuela Thursday (Friday, Manila time) announced the release of 88 people jailed for protesting President Nicolas Maduro’s claim to have won July 2024 elections. Maduro claimed to have won a third six-year term even though the opposition published results it said showed a convincing victory for their candidate. Mass demonstrations erupted. Twenty-eight people were killed in the unrest and around 2,400 people, including dozens of minors, were arrested as the authorities cracked down. Over 2,000 people have since been released, according to official records. The prisons ministry said Thursday that 88 more, who were detained “for crimes committed during violent actions by extremist groups,” had been released. Two rights groups -- the Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners and the Committee of Mothers in Defense of the Truth— had earlier reported the release of at least 87 prisoners. This is the second such gesture in a week by the embattled Maduro administration, which is in US President Donald Trump’s crosshairs. On December 25, the government announced the release of 99 prisoners as “a concrete expression of the State’s commitment to peace, dialogue and justice.” Maduro has been eager to show a more conciliatory side recently, faced with the threat of military action from the Trump administration. AFP

especially notable. It could be “interpreted as reporting to the ‘eternal leaders’ Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il that she is being presented as his successor”, he said. Ju Ae was publicly introduced to the world in 2022 when she accompanied her father to an intercontinental ballistic missile launch. North Korean state media have since referred to her as “the beloved child”, and a “great person of guidance”—“hyangdo” in Korean—a term typically reserved for top leaders and their successors. AFP

IN BRIEF Fresh clashes kill 6 in Iran protests TEHRAN—Protesters and security forces clashed in several Iranian cities on Thursday, with six reported killed, the first deaths since the cost-of-living demonstrations broke out. The protests began on Sunday in Tehran, where shopkeepers went on strike over high prices and economic stagnation, and have since spread to other parts of the country. On Thursday, Iran’s Fars news agency reported two people killed in clashes between security forces and protesters in the city of Lordegan, in the province of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, and three in Azna, in neighboring Lorestan province. “Some protesters began throwing stones at the city’s administrative buildings, including the provincial governor’s office, the mosque, the Martyrs’ Foundation, the town hall and banks,” Fars said of Lordegan, adding that police responded with tear gas. Fars reported that the buildings were “severely damaged” and that police arrested several people described as “ringleaders.” In Azna, Fars said “rioters took advantage of a protest gathering... to attack a police commissariat”. During previous protest movements, state media has labeled demonstrators “rioters.” Earlier Thursday, state television reported that a member of Iran’s security forces was killed overnight during protests in the western city of Kouhdasht. AFP

SPORTS N

EW YORK — Norman Powell scored a gamehigh 36 points and the Miami Heat took their fourth consecutive NBA victory with a 118112 triumph at Eastern Conference leader Detroit on Thursday.

Also stretching their win streak to four games were the Houston Rockets, who got a strong performance from Kevin Durant in a 12096 victory at Brooklyn. Powell made seven three-pointers while Jaime Jaquez scored 19 points off the bench, Andrew Wiggins added 17 points and Bam Adebayo contributed 15 points and 14 rebounds as the Heat improved to 19-15. The Pistons suffered their third loss in four games in falling to 259, still the second best record in the NBA behind Western Conference leader Oklahoma City (29-5). Cade Cunningham powered the Pistons with 31 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. Durant scored 22 points and made a season-high 11 assists while Amen Thompson added 23 points on 10-of-12 shooting in sparking the Rockets. Houston (21-10) also got 20 points, six rebounds and six assists from Alperen Sengun while the Nets (10-21) were led by 21 points off the bench from Cam Thomas. At Dallas, Tyrese Maxey struck for 34 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds to lead the Philadelphia 76ers over the host Mavericks 123-108. The Sixers had 23 points from V.J. Edgecombe, 22 from Joel Embiid and 19 points, seven rebounds and three blocks from reserve Quentin Grimes off 7-of-9 shooting. “Needed to come in and just tr y to be myself, be aggressive, be in attack mode, tr y to get

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2025

Miami, Houston stretch Wembanyama to miss Spurs’ win streaks to 4 games NBA tiff Friday against Pacers

WASHINGTON—Victor Wembanyama will miss San Antonio’s NBA game on Friday at Indiana after suffering a hyper-extended left knee in a Spurs victory over New York, according to multiple reports on Thursday. ESPN and the San Antonio Express-News reported that the 21-year-old French star did not make the trip to Indianapolis and will receive more care in Texas despite an MRI on Thursday that showed no ligament damage. Wembanyama, who turns 22 on Sunday, will be listed as questionable for Saturday’s home game against Portland, ESPN reported. The next Spurs game after that is Tuesday at Memphis. Wembanyama was injured in San Antonio’s 134-132 home victory over New York on Wednesday. The Spurs are 24-9 and rank second in the Western Conference, 4.5 games back of NBA-best Oklahoma City, and third overall in the league behind the Thunder and Detroit. Wembanyama is averaging 24.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.9 blocked shots a game in 21 appearances this season. AFP Norman Powell of the Miami Heat reacts against the Detroit Pistons during the third quarter at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. AFP

myself and my teammates involved,” Grimes said. The Sixers improved to 18-14, fifth in the Eastern Conference while the Mavericks, led by 18 points from Max Christie, lost their fourth in a row, falling to 12-23.

Grimes likes the Sixers’ chances of being one of the top East contenders come playoff time with Embiid back from injury and Paul George playing like his top days with the Los Angeles Clippers. “We’re getting Joel back to full

speed and Paul is getting back to where he was when he was with the Clippers, so as long was we take it day by day and keep getting in rhythm with each other... I feel like we can be one of the better teams coming out of the East absolutely.” AFP

Abra Weavers dominate MPBL’s 7th season ABRA stamped its dominance in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) last year. Boasting a deep and potent roster, the Abra Solid North Weavers swept the Quezon Huskers, 3-0, in the National Finals to clinch the 747. LIVE presents Manny Pacquiao MPBL 2025 Season crown and extend their record winning streak to 36. Powered by Dave Ildefonso, the 2025 MVP, Jason Brickman, the National Finals’ best player, Encho Serrano, a three-time national champion, former Finals MVP Mike Ayonayon, and Rookie of the Year Raven Gonzales, Abra won its last 26 games and finished the single round-robin elimination phase of the 30-team tournament with a 28-1 slate. Continuing their rampage in the playoffs, the Weavers blanked the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys, 2-0, in the quarterfinal round, Caloocan Batang Kankaloo, 2-0, in the semifinals, and the Pangasinan Heatwaves, 3-0, in the North Division Finals. Other Weavers who delivered for Coach of the Year Yong Garcia and team owner Cong. JB Bernos were Ryan Batino, John Uduba, Marwin Taywan, PBA top draftee Geo Chiu, former Finals MVP Mark Yee, Simon Camacho and CJ Austria. Although Quezon Province, the South Division champion, suffered its second straight shutout loss in the National Finals, the Huskers fared better than against the Pampanga Giant Lanterns in 2024. The Huskers blew two golden chances and yielded Game One, 81-80, in overtime, Game Two by 62-58, and Game Three, 94-85, also in overtime. Ljay Gonzales stood out for the Huskers and made the All-MPBL First Team with Ildefonso, Christian Fajarito of Pasay, Vic Manuel of Pangasinan, and

The Abra Solid North Weavers celebrate their sweep of the MPBL Seventh Season national title with team owner Cong. JB Bernos, coaching staff, management, and supporters.

Kenny Roger Rocacurva of Binan, the losing South Division finalist. The other South playoff qualifiers were losing semifinalists Batangas and Gensan, Rizal Xentromall and Basilan, and play-in survivors Zamboanga SiKat and Mindoro. Pangasinan, which advanced with Ilagan Isabela, through the play-in, turned out to be the Seventh Season’s big surprise as it toppled powerhouses

Nueva Ecija (2-1) and San Juan (2-1) in succession, before bowing to Abra, a quarterfinalist in its maiden stint in 2024. Completing the 2025 cast of the country’s top regional league were quarterfinalist Pasay, and Bataan, Pasig, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Manila, Marikina and Bulacan in the North; and Davao, Cebu, Sarangani, Muntinlupa, Imus, Bacolod and Paranaque in the South.

Nigeria police detain driver in fatal Joshua car crash LAGOS, Nigeria—The driver of a car carrying British boxer Anthony Joshua that was involved in a fatal crash in Nigeria has been held in police custody after he was discharged from hospital, a police spokesman told AFP on Thursday. The man was driving Joshua and two of his friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, on a busy highway linking Lagos and Ibadan in southwest Nigeria when the Lexus SUV in which they were travelling rammed into a stationary truck on Monday. Nigerian police and state officials said that Ayodele and Ghami died at the scene, while Joshua and the driver sustained minor injuries. “The driver... is currently in custody in connection with the Anthony Joshua accident,” Oluseyi Babaseyi, spokesman for the police in Ogun state, told AFP. “Investigations are ongoing.” When asked if the driver was facing prosecution, Babaseyi replied that the “investigation remains discreet for now”. Preliminary investigations showed that the vehicle was moving at an excessive speed and had burst a tyre before the crash, the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun state, where the accident occurred, told AFP earlier in the week. After leaving the hospital on Wednesday, Joshua and his mother paid their respects at the funeral home where the bodies of his friends were being prepared for repatriation. A government source suggested to AFP on Thursday that the remains of the victims may have been repatriated to the United Kingdom, Joshua’s whereabouts are unknown. AFP

4th PUVL National Championship for men’s/women’s volleyball set for January 3 to 8 By Graham C. Lim THE Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP) announced staging of the 4th Philippine University Volleyball League (PUVL) National Championship for men’s and women’s teams, scheduled from January 3 to 8, 2026 at the Technological University of the Philippines – Manila Stadium. This year’s championship serves as the PUVL Qualifying Series 2025, paving the way for participation in the upcoming Asian University Championship in Volleyball—including Beach Volleyball—or the ASEAN University Championship. FESSAP, an affiliate of the Asian University Sports Federation and the ASEAN University Sports Council, continues to strengthen its role in organizing continental-level competitions and promoting excellence in university sports. The federation acknowledges the invaluable

support of its corporate partners in advancing student-athlete participation in the ASEAN University Games, namely LT Group Inc., PAGCOR, Philippine Airlines, Eton Properties, OMNI Electrical & Lighting, Philippine National Bank, KELME, Tan Yan Kee Foundation, Seascape Village, BESTANK, Healthy Options, HENN Athletic Club, ASICS, Burlington Socks, and PADDOCK Jeans. The champion team of this tournament will earn the right to represent the Philippines at the 22nd ASEAN University Games to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from December 10 to 19, 2026. The invited teams are Technological University of the Philippines, MAPUA University, National University, College of Saint Benilde, University of Perpetual Help System DALTA and Philippine Normal University. The PUVL Technical Committee 2025– 2026 is composed of Allan D. Soria – Execu-

tive Assistant for FESSAP State Universities and Colleges (SUC), Host; and technical com-

mittee members Frank Gusi, Melchor Divina, Romulo L. Raytos and Albert N. Andaya.

SPORTS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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

Palacios ends 18-year career with football SEAG gold

The retiring Inna Palacios, shown here during one of her tour of duties for the PH Team games, wants the Filipinas to know that anything they want to achieve, they can achieve.

By Peter Atencio

PSC launches ‘Grassroots to Gold’ P By Randy M. Caluag

UTTING a greater premium on grassroots sports development, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) opened the new year on a strong note with the launch of its new national initiative, Grassroots to Gold, designed to strengthen the country’s sports pipeline from schools to elite competition. Under the program, the PSC distributed ₱500,000 worth of strength and conditioning equipment and rolled out free coaching seminars and teacher training through the Philippine Sports Institute. The initiative is set to benefit 300 sportsoriented schools nationwide, reinforcing foundational training and athlete development at the grassroots level. Grassroots to Gold, one of the main projects of PSC under Chairman Patrick Gregorio, is being implemented in partnership with the Department of Education, following a directive from the Office of the President to establish a comprehensive national grassroots sports program for Filipino youth.

The project’s proof of concept was launched last November at Bellarmino High School in Quezon City, marking the first concrete step toward building a stronger and more sustainable pathway from school-based sports programs to national team development. One of the PSC’s major achievements in 2025 was laying the groundwork for Regional Training Centers (RTCs) across the country, a move aimed at bringing high-performance training closer to athletes in the regions with the full support of the Office of the President. Initial sites include Candon, Ilocos Sur, which is being positioned as an advanced hub for archer y; Malaybalay, Bukidnon, which is set to open facilities for boxing

PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio

and sepak takraw; UP Mindanao, where constr uction has resumed for swimming and other sports; and Siargao, which is emerging as a key center for water sports such as surf ing and beach sprint rowing.

2 major international events up for PH hosting ONLY on the second day into the new year and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has lined up two major international events up for the country’s hosting in late 2027 and early 2028. A day after announcing the Philippines’ inaugural hosting of the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games or SEA Plus YG, POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said that also hot on the calendar are the Asian Beach Games or ABG. After email correspondence and phone calls with Olympic Council of Asia brass, the country will be hosting the SEA Plus YG in late 2027, instead of early 2028, according to Tolentino. The ABG, the POC chief said, will be in early 2028, but withheld announcing the venue. “The Asian Beach Games will have its third edition this April in Sanya [China] so it will be two years after when we host the games in 2028,” Tolentino said. He said that the two international hosting chores run in consonance with the Philippine Sports Commission’s —through its chairman, Patrick “Patò” Gregorio—intensified sports tourism campaign. “We will submit both letters [of intent] to the OCA before its General Assembly later this month in Tashkent,” Tolentino said. “It’s a mere formality. After getting the official approval from the OCA, we’ll immediately be proposing to the PSC on hosting both events.”

Abraham Tolentino

Tashkent is hosting the important OCA activity that will also tackle Uzbekistan’s hosting of the 2029 AYG. The POC and PSC are on the same page on the sports tourism campaign with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. setting into motion last year the multi-pronged National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC)

which Gregorio heads. “These coming international events fit well with the goal of the NST-IAC and we at the POC are remaining pro-active on these efforts,” said Tolentino, also the president of the national federation for cycling, PhilCycling, which is hosting the Asian Cycling Confederation Track Championships in March at the brand-new and International Cycling Union-standard Tagaytay CT Velodrome. Tolentino said expectations are high for Filipino athletes’ participation at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics next month as well as at the Sanya ABG set April 22 to 30. Also on the POC calendar are the Nagoya Asian Games in September and the Jeddah Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games. The SEA Plus YG are designed for athletes aged 17 and under who will compete in two mandatory sports, a maximum of 12 Olympic sports, maximum of five Asian non-Olympic sports and one traditional sport with up to six medal events. Tolentino is the founding president of the SEA Plus YG which counts as members Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam and Timor Leste. The “Plus” 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.

Eala to use Nadal’s forehand lessons at Auckland Open TENNIS great Rafa Nadal has passed on some of his forehand tricks to one of his students -- the

Philippines’ Alexandra Eala. Nadal’s mean forehand is seen as one of the best and most effective

Alexandra Eala

in tennis history as he has won 22 Grand Slam titles with it. He personally shared his experiences with his forehand game to the world no. 53 Eala during a special training session last November. “It was so special for me. Obviously, training with Rafa is something people and young kids can only dream about,” said Eala in an online interview. Eala, who trained at the Rafa Nadal Academy since she was 14, will start her 2026 season next week. She took to heart the lessons she got from Nadal, who is one of only two players in history to complete a Career Golden Slam in the men’s singles -- winning all four major titles and an Olympic singles gold medal in 2008. Eala had a breakout year in 2025, which saw her win her first WTA title at the Guadalajara 125 Open

and post a memorable Miami Open semifinals run. The 20-year-old Eala is among the top players as the no. 4 seed in the WTA 250 Auckland Open, which begins with the main draw on Monday. In her first match, Eala will use Nadal’s forehand lessons for the first time in a professional competition. “He gave me some tips on my forehand and a few other pieces of advice,” said Eala, who was also gifted a signed, rare wooden Dunlop Maxply racket by the Spanish legend. After taking part in the Auckland Open, Eala then heads to the Kooyong Classic, an exhibition in Melbourne, before joining the opening Grand Slam event of the season at the Australian Open, slated to begin on January 18, inside Melbourne Park. AFP

THE Philippine women’s national football team will continue on its next journey without long-time veteran and former captain, Inna Palacios, who recently retired from international duty after an 18-year career. Nicknamed the “Filipinas,” the squad is currently preparing for the coming 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. The 31-year-old Palacios is ending her career on a high note when the Filipinas won a gold medal at the recent 2025 Southeast Asian Games. “Full circle moment for me. SEA Games was when I started to dream and it just took me 18 years to get the gold,” said Palacios, who plays as Olivia McDaniel’s backup. The Filipinas will have a replacement for Palacios when they compete in the event in Australia, which starts in March, 2026. The tournament serves as the final qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. “It’s sad that I have to leave the team, but I know I’ve done everything I can as a player. I’ve given so much for the team, and now I want to see them dream for that,” said Palacios. Palacios was a product of the Philippine Football Federation’s youth program for girls since 2007. She was first asked to join the Philippine under-16 team at just 13 years old. Later, Palacios starred for De La Salle University in the UAAP, overcoming personal loss and injury to establish herself as the Lady Booters’ first-choice goalkeeper, winning UAAP Best Goalkeeper honors twice and even scoring a goal in her final collegiate match. “I’ve given so much for the team, and now I want to see them dream for that. I want them to know that anything they want to achieve, they can achieve,” said Palacios.

Venus Williams gets Australian Open wildcard at age 45 MELBOURNE—Seven-time major singles champion Venus Williams was handed a wildcard to the Australian Open aged 45 on Friday, becoming the oldest woman ever to play at the season-opening Grand Slam. The American will compete in the main draw at Melbourne Park for the first time since 2021. “I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” said Williams. “I’ve had so many incredible memories there and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career.” An Australian Open singles finalist in 2003 and 2017, Williams is a five-time Wimbledon champion and also won two US Opens. She will become the oldest woman to play at the Australian Open since Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round in 2015. Williams, a four-time Australian Open doubles champion, is set to begin her preparations for the January 18-Feb 1 tournament at the Auckland Classic next week, having returned to the circuit at the US Open last year after a 16-month break. AFP

Venus Williams

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE.

In line with the New Year observance, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) continues the implementation of Lakbay Alalay to ensure the safety, convenience and efficient movement of motorists. DPWH personnel WERE deployed along national roads to provide roadside assistance, monitor road conditions and promptly respond to incidents, ensuring a safe and orderly travel experience for the public.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

PH stocks up on first trading day of 2026

PH manufacturing returns PMI in December 2025 to growth as orders recover

50.2

By Thony Rose Lesaca

T Growth threshold

50.0

for PMI

47.4 PMI in November 2025

HE Philippine manufacturing sector returned to growth territory in December 2025 as a recovery in domestic demand helped end a three-month period of contraction, but a persistent slump in exports continued to weigh on the industry. The S&P Global manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) climbed to 50.2 in December from 47.4 in November. The reading moved back above the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction, signaling a modest improvement in operating conditions as the year drew to a close. S&P Global Market Intelligence economist Maryam Baluch said new order volumes rose for the first time

in four months, which helped ease an ongoing downturn in production. The growth in new work was the most pronounced since April, allowing firms to increase purchasing activity at the fastest pace since August to meet the rising intake. The recovery was led by the domestic market as external demand for Filipino goods worsened. S&P Global noted that a drop in new export orders dampened

overall sales growth, highlighting a disconnect between local consumption and global trade. While new orders improved, production levels fell for a fourth consecutive month, marking the longest sequence of contraction since 2021. Manufacturers managed to stabilize inventory levels after a sharp depletion in November, and some firms began building post-production stocks in anticipation of higher demand in 2026. Employment conditions remained mixed during the month. Some companies reduced headcount due to lower production requirements while others hired more staff to handle the influx of new orders. This imbalance led to a higher volume of unfulfilled requests for goods as companies struggled to match capacity with demand.

Business group pushes governance reforms to boost PH economy in 2026 FEDERATION of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Victor Lim on Friday called for urgent governance reforms and inclusive growth as essential requirements for a stronger Philippine economy in 2026. Lim said the country is at a decisive crossroads where fundamental strengths like demographic vitality and domestic demand are no longer enough to counter global uncertainty and domestic constraints. He said that while growth projections remain positive, unresolved governance weaknesses, geopolitical conflicts and a volatile financial environment act as serious headwinds. The federation said economic competitiveness is inseparable from institutional integrity. It urged the government to establish a genuinely

independent anti-corruption body based on international models and to fully implement a Freedom of Information regime. Lim also advocated for the adoption of advanced digital platforms to track the national budget in real time and ensure every public P1 is accounted for. The FFCCCII said that the comprehensive digitalization of government transactions is overdue and called for the uniform enforcement of the Ease of Doing Business Act across all local government units. Lim noted the importance of the country’s role as the host of the 2026 ASEAN Summit. He said Philippine foreign policy should remain independent and pragmatic to promote trade, foreign direct investment and infrastructure development with all major global economies.

DEL Monte Pacific Limited (DMPL) sold a 4.99-percent equity interest in Sundrop Brands Limited for $15 million and plans to divest further shares as part of a broader asset disposal program to support its operations. The Singapore and Manila-listed food producer said its indirect subsid-

EMPLOYMENT DOCUMENT.

Marichelle Faith Tinaco of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay shows her Digital National ID, which helped her in applying for an English as Second Language (ESL) teaching position. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is encouraging jobseeking Filipinos to leverage their National ID in their applications, especially after preliminary results from the September 2025 Labor Force Survey showed an estimated 314,000 new entrants to the labor force were unable to secure work.

iary DMPL India Holdco and CAGTech (Mauritius) Limited completed the sale of 1,881,073 ordinary shares. DMPL said it also entered into an additional agreement with an independent third party to sell a further 547,946 shares, representing a 1.45-percent stake. The disposals follow a July bankruptcy filing by Del Monte Foods, the company’s US subsidiary. DMPL

Vivant gets Siquijor power supply deal

CREIT updates investment strategy

UN adopts global consumer product safety principles By Othel V. Campos

CULINARY TRIP. Following the successful staging of the inaugural MICHELIN

Guide Ceremony: Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026, food influencers participate in a curated culinary familiarization trip to Cebu, positioning the province as a leading destination for food, culture and immersive travel experiences. The tour featured thoughtfully designed dining experiences at MICHELIN-recognized restaurants, complemented by cultural and heritage visits to iconic landmarks such as Magellan’s Cross and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu.

Del Monte Pacific sells 4.99% stake in Sundrop Brands to reduce debt By Jenniffer B. Austria

said the terms of the additional share sale were agreed on an arm’s length basis and are substantially similar to the initial tranche. Beyond asset sales, the group is looking to raise between $500 million and $600 million through a private placement. The capital injection is intended to reduce the company’s debt load and address a capital deficit. DMPL operates through various

subsidiaries across international markets and focuses on branded packaged foods. Its portfolio includes shelf-stable products distributed throughout Asia and the United States. While the transactions were disclosed in US dollars, the company continues to manage its regional obligations in local currencies, including the Philippine peso, where it maintains a primary listing.

NAIA handled record 52m passengers in 2025 By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Ninoy Aquino International Airport recorded its highest annual traffic in history with 52.02 million passengers in 2025, led by a surge in travel demand and modernized terminal operations, the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) said Friday. The private operator of the Philippines’ primary gateway reported that December became the busiest month on record for the facility, handling 4.86 million travelers. International passengers accounted for 2.367 million of the monthly total, while domestic travelers reached 2.495 million, marking the second-highest domestic volume ever recorded.

These figures encompass all airport activity, including outbound and returning Filipino travelers, business passengers and connecting traffic. NNIC officials said operations remained stable throughout the year despite the record-breaking volumes, citing various infrastructure upgrades and improved coordination with stakeholders. Operational enhancements included the installation of new biometric immigration e-Gates funded by NNIC, alongside upgrades to passenger processing systems and terminal facilities. The private firm worked with airlines and government agencies to streamline travel during peak periods.

THE United Nations General Assembly has approved a landmark resolution establishing the first-ever United Nations Principles for Consumer Product Safety to protect shoppers from hazardous goods. Approved on Dec. 15, 2025, the resolution upholds the right of all consumers to safe products whether sold online or offline. The framework mandates that all consumer items, including new, used, repaired and reconditioned goods, should be safe when placed on the market. Under the new guidelines, businesses bear the primary responsibility for ensuring safety by integrating quality assurance and risk considerations across the entire product life cycle. The principles empower public authorities to conduct risk assessments, order recalls and remove unsafe listings from online marketplaces. Authorities are also encouraged to share safety alerts across international borders to better track dangerous goods. The framework is designed to be flexible and non-trade-restrictive, helping member states align domestic legislation with circular economy goals and sustainable consumption. UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) estimates that 44 percent of member states still lack adequate legal frameworks for product safety. Enforcement remains a significant challenge due to the rapid expansion of e-commerce. An OECD study found that 87 percent of recalled or banned products remain available for purchase online, often remaining beyond the reach of national regulators. For businesses, the resolution demands prompt corrective action when products are found to be unsafe. If companies fail to act, relevant authorities are authorized to intervene with measures such as risk warnings, product withdrawals, destruction of unsafe goods or repairs where feasible. To assist countries in implementing these standards, UNCTAD is developing its first Handbook on consumer product safety to offer practical guidance for policymakers.

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Globe teams up with TBH to modernize rewards By Darwin G. Amojelar GLOBE Telecom Inc. has teamed with The Binary Holdings to integrate OneWave into the GlobeOne app, offering a modernized loyalty experience for Filipino users that moves beyond traditional transaction-based rewards. By leveraging the TBH ecosystem, GlobeOne users can now accumulate digital credits through active engagement — including gaming, content consumption and in-app shopping — creating a more interactive and valuedriven experience. “OneWave gives everyone a chance to participate in a digital economy, no matter their spending tier,” said Manit Parikh, chief executive of The Binary Holdings. “A subscriber on a basic plan who actively uses the platform can earn just as much as a high-spending customer who doesn’t engage much.” This partnership introduces Filipinos to the mechanics of digital economies. By participating in everyday activities within GlobeOne, subscribers see how their actions can generate value. It provides an early look at broader digital economic systems being developed globally. Globe’s ownership structure, which includes Ayala Corp. and Singtel, reflects the national importance of expanding digital access and financial inclusion in the Philippines. The platform creates a closed-loop system where entertainment, shopping and rewards connect. Gaming provides entertainment while earning credits, and e-commerce allows users to turn those credits into products. The Binary Network handles the secure transactions. “Our partnership with TBH and OneWave helps us expand the ways we provide value and recognition to our customers,” said Darius Delgado, Globe chief commercial officer. “It supports deeper engagement and reinforces our goal of contributing to a more active and digitally empowered subscriber base.” Rather than competing for attention with external platforms, GlobeOne becomes a destination where time spent translates into subscriber value. The Binary Holdings has operated similar integrations for over a year in other markets, consistently driving higher daily engagement, stronger retention and increased in-app activity.

PSEi jumps 1.4% to open year above 6,100; peso weakens By Jenniffer B. Austria

HARE prices opened strong during the first trading day of the year to close above the 6,100-level on robust foreign buying.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index jumped 82.14 points, or 1.36 percent, to close at 6,135.06, while the broader all shares index advanced 43.81 points, or 1.26 percent, to 3,517.05. The peso closed lower at 58.841 to the U.S. dollar Friday, down from 58.79 on Dec. 29. “The PSEi moved higher in the first

trading session of the year. Buying pressure was seen across the board throughout the day,” said Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp. Aside from renewed investor optimism, Limlingan said the market rallied due to positive manufacturing data for December, which supports optimism for economic growth.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also said the December inflation rate could settle between 1.2 percent and 2 percent, which is within the government’s target. Except for the services sector, which declined 1.01 points, all indices ended higher. Holding firms rose the most, climbing 2.36 percent, followed by financials, which increased 2.3 percent. Value turnover, however, remained thin as investors are still on extended holiday. Market breadth was positive as gainers edged out losers, 146 to 65, while 64 stocks were unchanged. Foreign investors were net buyers,

with inflows reaching P427.26 million. Asian markets made a bright start to 2026 on Friday but volumes were thin with Tokyo and Shanghai still closed as investors awaited fresh direction from Wall Street. Stocks had a bumper 2025, with the S&P adding 16.4 percent, the tech-rich Nasdaq 20.4 percent and London’s FTSE enjoying its merriest Christmas in 16 years. In Asia, Seoul stocks whooshed 75 percent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index bounced 28 percent and Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 rocketed more than 26 percent. With AFP

The Philippine Stock Exchange, Inc. records a 75 percent surge in total capital raised from the sale of primary and secondary shares and warrants to P144.14 billion in 2025 from P82.37 billion raised in the previous year. The PSE had two initial public offerings in 2025 which include Top Line Business Development Corp. and Maynilad Water Services, Inc. Other capital raising activities conducted this year included eight follow-on offerings and 14 private placements.

Hilton tops hospitality workplace in Southeast Asia on Fortune list HILTON has been recognized as the top hospitality workplace in Southeast Asia, ranking No. 2 overall on Fortune’s inaugural 100 Best Companies to Work For in South East Asia list. Produced in partnership with Great Place To Work, the list recognizes organizations that champion employee growth and exceptional workplace culture across the region. The latest achievement adds to Hilton’s existing workplace accolades, including being named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace and the No. 1 Best Workplace in Asia. The

company also secured the No. 1 Best Workplace in Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Thailand, No. 2 Best Workplace in the Philippines and Indonesia and No. 3 Best Workplace in Singapore. “Being named the top hospitality workplace on Fortune’s first South East Asia list is a proud moment for our region, and especially meaningful as it reflects the voices of our team members. These results affirm that when we can build an inclusive, people-first culture where our people feel they belong, can grow their careers and are supported in their wellbeing,

it shows up in the way they care for our guests, our communities and one another,” said Alexandra Murray, area vice president and regional head of South East Asia at Hilton. Hilton’s commitment to its team members—the heart of its success— is evidenced by their stories of career growth and support. Hilton Manila Newport World Resorts executive chef Lord Carlo Bayaban is one such example. After beginning his career in a stewarding role, he developed his natural talents through Hilton’s structured mentorship and leadership programs.

Today, he is among the few Filipino executive chefs working for a global hospitality brand in the country. Chef Bayaban partners with over 30 local farmers, helping Hilton Manila Newport World Resorts source close to 80 percent of its ingredients locally, which significantly reduces its carbon footprint and supports farmer livelihoods. Other inspiring team members include assistant front office manager Nitchakarn Prasoppol and floor supervisor Achara Thongdee, both at DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort.

Manila Water logged 100% compliance with wastewater standards in November

One of 28 wastewater facilities of Manila Water, the Olandes Sewage Treatment Plant is capable of treating up to 10 million liters of wastewater per day before the effluent is discharged to Marikina River.

MANILA Water continues to meet government wastewater standards across all its sewage treatment plants, posting 100 percent compliance in November 2025 and consistently surpassing the regulatory target of 95 percent. This achievement underscores the company’s commitment to safeguarding rivers and communities through responsible wastewater management. The standards cover key indicators such as biochemical oxygen demand, oil and grease, total suspended solids, surfactants and fecal coliform, as required by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Laguna Lake Development Authority. All 28 wastewater treatment facilities operated by Manila Water complied with these requirements, reinforcing the company’s focus on environmental protection and regulatory excellence. Strengthening these efforts is the newly inaugurated Hinulugang Taktak Sewage Treatment Plant in Antipolo City. The facility can treat up to 16 million liters of wastewater daily and supports the rehabilitation of the Hinulugang Taktak National Park and the Upper Marikina River Basin. “Manila Water is expanding sustainable wastewater services across the East Zone by adding treatment capacity, extending networks and maintaining strict compliance with effluent standards to protect waterways and advance climate resilience,” said Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water corporate communication affairs group director.

Light Fuels earns award for regulatory compliance LIGHT Fuels Corp., the retail fuel subsidiary of listed Top Line Business Development Corp., was recognized as an Outstanding Liquid Fuels Retail Outlet by the Department of Energy’s Visayas Field Office on Dec. 10. The award underscores the company’s consistent compliance with regulatory standards in product quality, safety protocols, operational discipline and customer service. The DOE recognition reinforces Light Fuels’ institutional credibility and demonstrates its ability to meet and sustain standards required by regulatory authorities. It is expected to support smoother coordination with regulators in routine compliance matters and future applications for permits, accreditations and approvals related to new station development. “Having commenced operations just five

years ago, this recognition affirms that our systems, processes and operating discipline are aligned with regulatory expectations,” said Brigitte Carmel Lapasaran Lim, senior vice president and chief operating officer. “As we continue to upgrade acquired sites and expand our network, the award further strengthens our engagement with regulators and supports a more efficient permitting process.” By meeting regulatory benchmarks, Light Fuels positions itself as a responsible operator delivering reliable fuel solutions to underserved market segments in the Visayas region. Light Fuels currently has more than 50 stations in various stages of development, supporting Top Line’s broader vertical integration strategy.

Executives from Top Line Business Development Corp. and Light Fuels Corp. receive an award from the Department of Energy. From left: Jose Rey Maleza, chief of the DOE Visayas Field Office energy industry management division; Floremie Molit, TOP compliance officer; Brigitte Carmel Lapasaran Lim, TOP senior vice president and COO; Renante Sevilla, DOE Visayas Field Office officer-in-charge; Dwight Christian Jonas Villon, Light Fuels Corp. vice president for retail fuel trade operations; and Janet Monterola, Light Fuels sales supervisor.

BUSINESS

B3 SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

Vivant Energy signs 15-year deal to power Siquijor By Alena Mae S. Flores

IVANT Energy Corp., the power arm of Cebubased conglomerate Vivant Corp., has secured a 15-year power supply agreement to provide an additional dependable electricity source for Siquijor Island’s growing energy demand.

EMEAP MEETING. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and its peers from the Executives’ Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks (EMEAP) express commitment to promote financial integration and resilience in the region during the ‘69th EMEAP Deputies’ and Related Meetings’ on Dec. 3 to 5, 2025 in Seoul, Korea. The meetings also underscored EMEAP’s thrust to maintain robust frameworks for financial stability and innovation in a dynamic global environment. Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald Abenoja led the BSP delegation.

Galunggong prices may hit P300/kg amid global shortage By Othel V. Campos THE Department of Agriculture is intensifying market monitoring and supply coordination to stabilize fish prices and ensure adequate inventory as global disruptions pressure key commodities like galunggong (round scad). Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the DA has been in constant talks with qualified importers to assess supply conditions and fast-track shipments, particularly for imported fish varieties that can temper prices. Tiu Laurel said galunggong prices remain elevated due to a severe global supply shortage, with limited volumes available from traditional sources. Recent weather disturbances, including storms affecting local waters and China — a main supplier — have further constrained supply, he said.

“Galunggong will remain high because there is really no supply worldwide. It’s a supply-anddemand issue,” Tiu Laurel said, noting that prices could peak at around P300 per kilo. To cushion the impact on consumers, the DA is banking on incoming mackerel imports and locally produced alternatives. Tiu Laurel said mackerel prices are

—“—

Galunggong will remain high because there is really no supply worldwide. It’s a supply-anddemand issue.

— Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel

expected to ease once importation gains momentum, with prices projected to decline to between P230 and P250 per kilo. Out of the approved 55,000-metric-ton allocation for mackerel imports, only about 30 percent has arrived because of supply-side disruptions. Tiu Laurel said shipments are starting to arrive as conditions normalize. “We expect mackerel prices to go down once these shipments arrive,” he said. He urged consumers to consider other protein sources, including locally farmed fish like tilapia and chicken, to manage household costs while supply remains tight. The DA continues to monitor prices and inventory levels, coordinating with importers and industry players to maintain supply and prevent excessive price volatility.

General Trias deploys two new service vehicles to boost tax collection efforts By Dennis Abrina MAYOR Luis Ferrer IV and Vice Mayor Jonas Labuguen turned over two new Toyota Hiace vans to the City Treasurer’s Office and a Mitsubishi L300 FB van to the Business Permit and Licensing Office to bolster operations during the tax payment season. The vehicles, received by BPLO head Romel Olimpo, are intended for quick-response tasks and to support the city’s one-stop-shop service. Local officials said the fleet will be used to deliver notices for more effective tax collection and for field operations, such as gas station calibration. While the new vehicles increase mobility, Olimpo encouraged taxpayers to use the city’s digital infrastructure. “It is still better to use E-BOSS (Electronic Business One-Stop Shop) for a more conve-

nient way of paying taxes,” Olimpo said. P11,000 in real property tax won P1 million In neighboring Imus, the local government in the “Asenso ka sa Buwis na Binayad Mo” is urging taxpayers to settle their accounts earraffle promo. Another taxpayer won P300,000 ly to take advantage of discounts authorized after paying P3,000 in property taxes. Manila by local ordinance. Standard TODAY Before the holiday break, residents and investors lined up at the Imus City Hall lobby in Barangay Malagasang 1-G to pay taxes before the end of December 2025. The city is offering a 20 percent discount on payments made through Jan. 20. A 10 percent discount will apply to payments made between Jan. 21 and March 31. The city’s incentive program has already yielded significant results for some residents. In December, a taxpayer who paid ERRATUM

IN THE ADVERTISEMENT OF THE INVITATION TO BID AS PUBLISHED IN THE 19 DECEMBER 2025 (FRIDAY) ISSUE OF MANILA STANDARD FOR MULTIPLE LOTS, THERE IS A NEED TO CORRECT THE SCHEDULE OF BIDDING ACTIVITIES, TO WIT: INVITATION TO BID

FROM

•Ê

5. The schedule of bidding activities is as follows: ACTIVITIES

SCHEDULE

10:00 am for Lot IV-A

06 January 2025 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

Pre-Bid Conference

11:00 am for Lot IV-B 1:00 pm for Lot IV-C 2:00 pm for Lot V

10:00 am for Lot III

07 January 2025 (Wednesday) ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

11:00 am for Lot I 1:00 pm for Lot II

Deadline of Acceptance for the Submission of Accreditation (Hard Copy)

12 January 2025 (Monday) Office Hours, at ORMECO, INC. Office

Until 5:00 pm

9:00 am for Lot IV-A

20 January 2025 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room Deadline of Submission and Receipt of Bids/ Bid Opening

10:30 am for Lot IV-B 1:00 pm for Lot IV-C 3:00 pm for Lot V 9:00 am for Lot III

21 January 2025 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

10:30 am for Lot I 1:00 pm for Lot II

Post-Qualification

26 January to 28 January 2025

Approval through Board Resolution and Issuance of Notice of Award

Board Meeting for the Month of February 2025

SHOULD BE •Ê

The schedule of bidding activities is as follows: ACTIVITIES

SCHEDULE 10:00 am for Lot IV-A 06 January 2026 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

Pre-Bid Conference

11:00 am for Lot IV-B 1:00 pm for Lot IV-C 2:00 pm for Lot V 10:00 am for Lot III

07 January 2026 (Wednesday) ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

11:00 am for Lot I 1:00 pm for Lot II

Deadline of Acceptance for the Submission of Accreditation (Hard Copy)

Region in GDP growth in 2024 at 7.9 percent, reaching P13.78 billion, up from P12.77 billion in 2023. “It has long been Vivant Energy’s thrust to prioritize areas that are largely underserved,” said Eric Omamalin, Vivant Energy vice president for off-grid solutions. “We believe progress starts where the grid ends. Beyond building a business, Vivant is helping build communities by delivering sustainable solutions that improve everyday living,” Omamalin said. The province of Siquijor was placed under a state of calamity in June 2025. At the height of the crisis, residents and businesses endured outages lasting up to 20 hours a day, crippling the island’s tourism industry and essential services. The situation was highlighted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his recent State of the Nation Address, where he called for urgent private-sector intervention to address chronic power shortages.

The agreement, signed Dec. 30, follows a successful competitive selection process conducted by the Province of Siquijor Electric Cooperative (PROSIELCO). Under the deal, Vivant Energy contracted a total of 11 megawatts of capacity from its diesel power plant in Barangay Bogo, Maria, Siquijor. It will supply power to the municipalities of Larena, Lazi, Maria, San Juan, Enrique Villanueva and Siquijor. PROSIELCO general manager Glenn Galvan said the partnership marks a critical turning point for the island. “We are excited about this partnership and we are hopeful that upon completion of the power plant, households and businesses will gain access to stable and dependable electricity,” Galvan said. As one of the Philippines’ emerging tourism destinations, Siquijor’s access to reliable electricity is critical to sustaining economic growth and improving quality of life for its residents. Siquijor led the Negros Island

12 January 2026 (Monday) Office Hours, at ORMECO, INC. Office

Until 5:00 pm

Deadline of Submission and Receipt of Bids/ Bid Opening

9:00 am for Lot IV-A 10:30 am for Lot IV-B 20 January 2026 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

1:00 pm for Lot IV-C 3:00 pm for Lot V 9:00 am for Lot III

21 January 2026 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Resolution Room

10:30 am for Lot I 1:00 pm for Lot II

Post-Qualification

26 January to 28 January 2026

Approval through Board Resolution and Issuance of Notice of Award

Board Meeting for the Month of February 2026

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 81, QUEZON CITY e-mail address: rtcqzn081@judiciary.gov.ph IN THE MATTER OF PETITION FOR RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN JUDGMENT, LOWELLA SINSANO CERVERA, Petitioner, -versus-

SP. PROC. CASE NO. R-QZN-25-08317-SP

TAKEO MINOBE, PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY, DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, and ALL OTHER PERSONS WHO MAY HAVE INTEREST, Respondents. x-------------------------------------------------------x

ORDER AND NOTICE OF HEARING This is a verified petition for Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgment filed by the petitioner praying that after consideration and due hearing a Decision be issued based on the following reliefs being sought: a) To recognize, enforce, and give credence to the Divorce dated August 14 2006, approved by the Mayor of the City Government of Kawaguchi City, Saitama, Prefecture, Japan; b) To order the Civil Registrar concerned, to aru10tate the Divorce on August 29, 2014, and thereafter, forward the same to the Office of the Civil Registrar General of the Philippine Statistics Authority; c) To declare Petitioner LOWELLA SINSANO CERVERA, to be capacitated to marry again by virtue of the subject divorce decree pursuant to Article 26 of the Family Code of the Philippines; d) To order the reversion of the Petitioner’s surname, back to her maiden name of CERVERA; e) Petitioner prays for such further or other reliefs, which the Honorable Court may deem just and equitable. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the petition will be heard by this Court on 20 JANUARY 2026 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning at the Regional Trial Court, Branch 81, Hall of Justice Building Annex, Quezon City, at which date, time, place, the Civil Registrar or any person having or claiming interest on the judgment sought to be recognized, may show cause why the petition should not be granted and/or file his opposition thereto within fifteen (15) days from receipt of this Order or from the last day of publication of this Order. Let a copy of this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation at the expense of the petitioner, and furnish together with a copy of the petition and its annexes, the Solicitor General, the Quezon City Prosecutor, the Civil Registrar General, Philippine Statistics Authority and to respondent Takeo Minobe at his last known address, also at petitioner’s expense. Petitioner is ordered to cause the service of this Order together with a copy of the petition and its annexes to respondent in accordance with the Hague Convention, particularly the 2019 Revised Rules of Civil Procedure and the provisions of the Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 251-2020 (Guidelines On The Implementation In the Philippines of the Hague Service Convention On The Service Abroad Of Judicial Documents In Civil and Commercial Matters) and OCA Circular 163-2020. Moreover, petitioner and counsel are directed to strictly comply with Supreme Court’s Circulars (A.M. 10-3-7-SC) and A.M. No. 11-9-4-SC) on e-filing system and to furnish this Court their email addresses thru its email address: rtc1qzn081@judiciary.gov. ph. SO ORDERED. Given in Chambers, this 10th day of October 2025 in Quezon City. (Sgd.) MADONNA C. ECHIVERRI Presiding Judge copy furnished:

To rectify the error in the Invitation to Bid, ORMECO is publishing this erratum which will form part of the Bidding Documents. The rest is the same as advertised on the 19 December 2025 issue of Manila Standard.

Residents and investors line up at City Hall to pay taxes before the long weekend to avail of a 20 percent discount offered by the General Trias local government through Jan. 20. A 10 percent discount will apply from Jan. 21 through March 31. Dennis Abrina

Certified by:

Approved by:

SGD

ENGR. FRANCIS P. MACALINTAL Chairperson, Bids and Awards Committee

SGD

HUMPHREY A. DOLOR, PECE, MBA Head of Procuring Entity (HOPE)

Atty. Pacifico L. Lagramada, Jr. The Solicitor General Counsel for petitioner The Quezon City Prosecutor Lowella Sinsano Cervera Petitioner The Civil Registrar General Philippine Statistics Authority Takeo Minobe Respondent (MStandard - Jan. 3, 10 & 17, 2025)

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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

IPOPHL expands ISP cooperation to curb piracy By Othel V. Campos THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) said Friday it is seeking broader cooperation with internet service providers (ISPs) to strengthen siteblocking measures against illegal streaming and pirated websites in 2026 as part of a plan to close enforcement gaps. IPOPHL acting director-general Nathaniel Arevalo said the agency is intensifying coordination with regulators and ISPs alongside expanded monitoring of online platforms offering free and unauthorized access to movies and television content. Arevalo said piracy remains a persistent problem particularly with illegal streaming sites and confirmed that the agency is increasing monitoring and taking action once complaints are filed. The agency said it ordered the takedown of 21 infringing websites in 2025, an increase from 17 sites blocked in 2024 following a rise in complaints from rights holders. Most cases involved websites streaming pirated movies and television programs including Asian content such as Korean drama series as well as platforms linked to major content owners. Arevalo said IPOPHL is also tightening its response to mirrored or copycat websites that reappear after an initial takedown. He said that if similar or mirrored websites pop up, the complainant could file again and the agency would move to have those sites taken down once they are identified. Site-blocking is carried out in coordination with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) which issues blocking orders to ISPs following IPOPHL findings. The process covers major providers such as Globe, Smart, Sky and DITO. Arevalo said the agency is working to include additional ISPs to ensure broader coverage and more effective enforcement against evolving piracy methods.

CREIT updates investment strategy By Alena Mae S. Flores

ITICORE Energy REIT Corp. (CREIT) said Friday it submitted a three-year investment strategy to the Philippine Stock Exchange to boost lease revenues and net income through an expanded portfolio of renewable energy real estate. The first renewable energy real estate investment trust in the Philippines said its principal strategy is to invest in income-generating properties to become the largest renewable energy landlord in the country. Citicore Fund Managers Inc. prepared the document in compliance with the implementing rules and

regulations of the Real Estate Investment Trust Act of 2009. CREIT said a core tenet of the investment policy is to acquire properties that meet specific criteria designed to provide competitive returns to investors. Potential sites should be suitable for solar power plants or other renewable energy technologies and be located in underdeveloped areas where resources are validated and land value is expected to appreciate through future developments. The company revised its investment criteria by removing the requirement for properties to have achieved successful plant testing, commissioning and stable offtake contracts for 100 percent of power output. This is intended to accelerate the inclusion of new investments into the REIT. With the revised criteria, the company will be able to realize lease income earlier because renewable

energy properties can now be leased to developers during the construction stage. This provides an earlier income stream to shareholders compared to waiting for a plant to become operational. Upon successful plant commissioning and the securing of offtake contracts, the company retains an option to purchase the power plant itself and lease it back to the operator. While CREIT intends to hold properties long term, it may consider divesting mature or noncore assets to free up capital for new properties that meet its investment criteria. The company said it would leverage the Citicore Group market knowledge and industry relationships to explore synergies and growth avenues. As of Sept. 30, 2025, public shareholders owned 38.22 percent of CREIT shares while SM Investments Corp. held 28.79 percent and parent firm Citicore Renewable Energy Corp retained 32.99 percent.

KNOWLEDGE HUB. The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) reaches another milestone in its digital transformation journey with the launch of the ERDB AI-Powered Knowledge Hub. Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla lauded ERDB’s sustained efforts in advancing environmental research and innovation, as he described the hub as an innovative step in managing and accessing environmental research.

Tanduay enters Denmark through distribution deal with Bastard Spirits By Jenniffer B. Austria TANDUAY Distillers Inc., the liquor arm of LT Group Inc., is expanding its European presence through a distribution partnership with Danish boutique distributor Bastard Spirits. Under the agreement, Bastard Spirits will distribute Tanduay products across Denmark by leveraging its network of specialty wine and spirits shops, online retailers

IN BRIEF

and on-trade channels. The partnership supports the international expansion strategy of the Philippine-based distiller as it targets markets where consumer interest in rum is increasing. The company noted that rum is gaining traction in Denmark amid a slowdown in gin consumption, with younger consumers and women showing a growing openness to the category. Bastard Spirits, which was established in 2021, operates in the

highly regulated Nordic alcohol market and focuses on premium spirits. Bastard Spirits international sales manager Jesper Kjaer said Tanduay stood out for its portfolio, pricing and market support, noting that the brand offers products not currently available in the Danish market. He expects the Tanduay 10-YearOld Rum to appeal to a broad consumer base, while the Tanduay Overproof is likely to attract more experienced rum drinkers.

Apeiron chair named among top 40 Filipino founders on LinkedIn

Trump delays higher tariffs on furniture

WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump has delayed steeper US tariffs on some imported furniture items for a year, ordering the postponement shortly before they were due to take effect Thursday. The increase had been planned under an earlier tranche of sector-specific tariffs imposed by Trump, part of a slate of duties he has rolled out since returning to the White House. But with US households feeling the pinch from elevated costs of living, Trump late Wednesday pushed the planned tariffs -- 30 percent on certain upholstered furniture and 50 percent on kitchen cabinets and vanities -- to January 1, 2027. “Given the ongoing productive negotiations regarding the imports of wood products, the President is delaying the tariff increase to allow for further negotiations to occur with other countries,” the White House said in a statement announcing the move. Trump’s tariffs in 2025 affected goods ranging from steel to autos, and more investigations—that could lead to new levies—are underway. AFP

PH population density rises to 376 per sq. km.

THE Philippine population density reached 376 persons per square kilometer in 2024, up 3.4-percent from 363 persons in 2020 as the nation continues its steady demographic expansion. Results of the 2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) show the total population residing in Philippine territories was 112,727,776 as of July 1. This excludes 1,708 Filipinos serving in embassies, consulates and missions abroad, who are traditionally omitted from density calculations. The density reflects a gain of 13 persons per square kilometer compared to four years ago and was higher than 337 persons recorded in 2015. The National Capital Region (NCR) remains the most densely packed administrative area in the country by a wide margin. With a population of 14 million people squeezed into just 620.61 square kilometers, the NCR reported a density of 22,561 persons per square kilometer. This concentration is more than 60 times the national average and represents an increase of 833 persons per square kilometer from the 21,728 recorded in 2020.

Rizal Green delivers power from solar plant RIZAL Green Energy Corp. said it started exporting 33.831 megawatts from its 40-MW Limbauan solar power facility in San Pablo, Isabela province to the Luzon grid in December. The power export followed the Dec. 17 release of a provisional certificate of approval to connect as a generator by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines. The San Pablo-based plant previously completed its energization as a load facility on Nov. 24, 2025. The Limbauan facility is the third project under the joint venture between PetroGreen Energy Corp. and Japan-based Taisei Corp. to supply the grid. It follows the 27-MW Dagohoy solar plant in Bohol and the 19.6-MW San Jose solar plant in Nueva Ecija, which began commercial operations on July 16, 2025 and Aug. 1, 2025 respectively. PetroGreen Energy Corp. vice president Maria Victoria Olivar said the company is pleased to start exporting power from the Limbauan solar phase 2 facility, which is a Green Energy Auction-2 qualified project. Olivar said the milestone was achieved through cooperation between the Department of Energy, grid operators and local government units. Alena Mae S. Flores

Lucio Tan

CLIMATE ADAPTATION. Department of Environment and Natural Resources

(DENR) assistant secretary and head of the Philippine delegation to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC) Noralene Uy (third from left, seated on stage) shares the Philippines’ mechanisms that support local-level adaptation to address climate change during the side event sponsored by the Asian Development Bank.

CitizenWatch urges proper disposal of seized illicit cigarettes in Mindanao CIVIC watchdog CitizenWatch Philippines urged authorities to secure and dispose of recently seized illicit cigarettes to prevent them from returning to the market, warning that any premature release would undermine law enforcement and public trust. CitizenWatch convenor Orlando Oxales said the group recognizes the scale of recent anti-smuggling operations in Mindanao and expressed confidence that enforcement agencies would uphold due process. He said the credibility of enforcement hinges on the transparent handling of goods after a seizure. The Philippine Navy intercepted four vessels involved in cigarette smuggling— M/L Adilyn, M/L ASB Express, M/B Mack Mack, and M/B Combination — during maritime interdictions in Mindanao waters in December. The haul totaled 7,090 master

cases, or about 70.9 million cigarette sticks, with an estimated market value of P283 million. The seizure represents about P267 million in lost government revenue from excise and value-added taxes. All shipments have been turned over to the Bureau of Customs for disposition. Due to intensified enforcement, Customs authorities in Zamboanga hold an estimated 56,000 master cases of illicit cigarettes seized throughout 2025. Oxales said this volume reflects the organized nature of the smuggling problem and added that post-seizure safeguards are as critical as the interdictions themselves. Reports from the region suggest some individuals have contacted law enforcement agencies to seek the release of seized shipments at a fixed rate of P10,000 per case and to limit operations in the Port of Davao.

APEIRON chairman and chief business officer Joscel Delos Cielos was named to the Top 40 Filipino Founders on LinkedIn 2025 list. The list recognizes visionaries redefining the country’s entrepreneurial landscape. The nonranked list highlights leaders for their contributions to industry growth and community building rather than financial valuation alone. Delos Cielos was selected for his role in driving innovation at Apeiron and his commitment to creating ecosystems of opportunity within the Philippine business sector. Organizers of the initiative said his work reflects a shift in modern leadership where founders act as architects of change, focusing on collaborative impact that extends beyond traditional corporate growth. The selection committee noted that leaders like Delos Cielos represent the growing influence of Filipino entrepreneurs on the global stage. His recognition emphasizes the country’s position as a hub for resilient and forward-thinking leadership. The initiative aims to spotlight founders who demonstrate clarity and courage while building communities of inspiration. The announcement comes at a time when Filipino thought leaders are increasingly participating in the global economy. Organizers said the recognition of the 40 individuals serves as a movement to inspire the next generation of local leaders to prioritize purpose-driven business models.

TECH

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

HONOR X9 Series: No. 1 mid-range smartphone in PH L

EADING global AI smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has dominated the mid-range smartphone market with its iconic and biggest hit HONOR X9 series. Started with HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, HONOR has been dropping hits after hit, literally. At this point, the new year’s campaign of the viral phone series has already become a tradition.

“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and

France plans social media ban for children under 15 PAR IS —France will make a f resh attempt to protect children f rom excessive screen time, proposing a ban on social media access for children under 15 by next September, according to a draft law seen by AFP. The initiative is backed by President Emmanuel Macron, who said earlier this month that parliament should start debating such a proposal in January. Australia this month imposed a social media ban on under 16s, in a world first. “Many studies and reports now confirm the various risks caused by excessive use of digital screens by adolescents,” the French draft says. Children with unfettered online access were exposed to “inappropriate content” and could suffer from cyber-harassment or experience changes to their sleep patterns, the government said. The draft law has t wo ar ticles. One would make illegal “ the provision by an online platfor m of an online social media ser vice to a minor under 15”. The second calls for a ban of mobile phone use in secondar y schools. Macron has said that the digital protection of minors is a priority for his government, but enforcement and compliance with international law have been issues. An ban on mobile phone use in pre-schools and middle-schools came into force in 2018, but is rarely enforced. France meanwhile ran foul of European Union rules with a law calling for a “digital legal age” of 15, passed in 2023, that has since been blocked. The French upper house, the Senate, this month backed an initiative for the protection of teenagers from excessive screen time and social media access, which includes a requirement for parental authorisation for children between 13 and 16 to register with social media sites. The Senate’s proposal has been submitted to the National Assembly which would need to approve the text before it can become law. AFP

It has now become a tradition for HONOR to launch its biggest hit X9 series every January

2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year. What began with 5-foot drop

tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test-- and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.

“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at

rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued. That unforgettable moment— when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers. The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned. For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor. com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram. com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https:// bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

Security Bank accelerates tech transformation with modern architecture, AI adoption SECURITY Bank Corporation is advancing its technology transformation with strategic investments in modern architecture, artificial intelligence, real-time data platforms, cybersecurity, and automation. These initiatives strengthen the Bank’s operational resilience and scalability delivering faster, safer, and more seamless customer experiences, reinforcing its BetterBanking commitment. Over the first nine months of 2025, the Bank has streamlined core systems and processes, resulting in improved speed, reliability, compliance efficiency, and enhanced service delivery. These advancements have been recognized by regional awards bodies, affirming Security Bank’s position among the Philippines’ most innovative and future-ready financial institutions. Building a future-ready banking foundation through APIs and real-time platforms Security Bank received the Technology Excellence Award for API–Banking at the 2025 Asian Technology Excellence Awards for its Enterprise API Platform (EAPI). By transforming banking capabilities into secure, reusable API products, the Bank now enables faster deployment of new services, more consistent digital experiences, and seamless integrations across channels—supporting growth and market agility while strengthening Open Banking readiness. Digitizing compliance and transforming branch operations The Bank’s Transactor Due Diligence (TDD) platform was named Best Compliance Risk Technology Initiative at The Asian Banker Global Financial Technology Awards. Now deployed

across 346 branches, the fully digitized KYC workflow has reduced processing time, improved customer experience, strengthened compliance integrity, and eliminated paper reliance, supporting both operational efficiency and sustainability. Enabling real-time intelligence and smarter decision-making Security Bank’s Data Streaming Platform earned recognition as the Best Data Integration and Framework Initiative in Asia Pacific by The Asian Banker. By shifting from batch processing to real-time streaming, the Bank can now deliver insights instantly, improve reliability, support faster transactions, and enable real-time analytics, placing Security Bank among

the few Philippine banks operating enterprisegrade streaming architecture. Strengthening competitive advantage These initiatives mark a disciplined transition toward a platform-based, API-enabled, real-time digital banking environment, supported by: • Enterprise API deployment at scale • Fully digitized branch compliance processing • Real-time enterprise data streaming capabilities • Security and resilience embedded by design Collectively, these deliver BetterBanking experiences for customers, stronger operational performance, and enhanced competitiveness and scalability for future growth. Looking ahead Security Bank will continue its multi-year technology roadmap with investments in in: • Artificial intelligence and automation for fraud management , service, and operations • Advanced cybersecurity and real-time threat monitoring • Core banking and payments modernization to enable real-time services • API monetization and embedded finance partnerships • Further digital across operations and branches “Security Bank is building a modern, secure, and customer-centric foundation designed to support sustainable growth while continually improving customer experiences,” said Lucose Eralil, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at Security Bank. “Our progress reflects disciplined execution and a forward-looking approach, and these recognitions reinforce the strength of the transformation we are delivering.

PalawanPay unveils virtual visa card STAYING true to the Palawan Group of Companies’ mission of advancing financial inclusion, PalawanPay — the company’s fast-growing e-wallet — unveils the PalawanPay Virtual Visa Card, a major leap in making simple, secure, and widely accepted digital payments accessible to every Filipino, including those without bank accounts or credit cards. PalawanPay CEO Third Librea shared: “For many Filipinos, owning a Visa card has always felt out of reach — something reserved for those with bank accounts or credit lines. With the PalawanPay Virtual Visa Card, we’re changing that. We built this to be simple, practical, and truly pang-masa. Now every Filipino, every suki, can access global commerce with confidence — securely and affordably.” Cashless, Cardless, Limitless — Designed for the Digital Filipino With just a few taps inside the PalawanPay app, verified users can instantly activate their Virtual Visa Card and start transacting online. From e-commerce shopping and

PalawanPay’s Virtual Visa Card is a step toward a more inclusive digital economy.

recurring bills to travel bookings and streaming subscriptions, the PalawanPay Virtual Visa Card delivers a safer, more seamless way to pay — no long forms, no rigid requirements, no hassle. True to Palawan Group’s walang kuskos-balungos promise. Palawan Group Chief Marketing Officer Bernard Kaibigan remarked: “PalawanPay’s Virtual Visa Card

is more than a new feature. It is a step toward a more inclusive digital economy. Our goal is simple: to make digital finance truly para sa lahat (for everyone) — practical and within reach of every suki.” Financial Inclusion, Levelled Up — Making the Digital Economy Accessible to Every Suki The PalawanPay Virtual Visa Card

empowers unbanked and underbanked Filipinos to participate confidently in the digital economy. Built with suki-centered simplicity, it supports easy payments for: ● Online shops such as Shopee and Lazada ● Travel bookings and digital wallets ● Subscription services ● Secure money transfers powered by Visa Direct Further, because PalawanPay is deeply rooted in the everyday needs of Filipinos, users can also receive remittances from abroad directly in the app. Sukis can also enjoy free cash-in at any of Palawan Express’ 3,500+ branches all over the Philippines — ensuring nationwide access to funds with zero extra cost. Designed with zero intimidation and zero complications, it aligns with the real spending behaviors of today’s digital Pinoy. Coming Soon: Physical PalawanPay Visa Card By 2026, PalawanPay will launch its physical Visa card, providing even more flexibility for point-of-sale and in-store payments worldwide.

TECH

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

Tiny technology, big AI power: What are 2-nanometer chips? T OKYO—Taiwan’s world-leading microchip manufacturer TSMC says it has started mass producing next-generation “2-nanometre” chips.

AFP looks at what that means, and why it’s important: What can they do? The computing power of chips has increased dramatically over the decades as makers cram them with more microscopic electronic components. That has brought huge technological leaps to everything from smartphones to cars, as well as the advent of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT. Advanced 2-nanometre (2nm) chips perform better and are more energy-efficient than past types, and are structured differently to house even more of the key components known as transistors. The new chip technology will help speed up laptops, reduce data centres’ carbon footprint and allow self-driving cars to spot objects quicker, according to US computing giant IBM. For artificial intelligence, “this benefits both consumer devices -- enabling faster, more capable on-device AI -and data centre AI chips, which can run large models more efficiently”, said Jan Frederik Slijkerman, senior sector strategist at Dutch bank ING. Who makes them? Producing 2nm chips, the most cuttingedge in the industry, is “extremely hard and expensive”, requiring “advanced lithography machines, deep knowledge of the production process, and huge investments”, Slijkerman told AFP. Only a few companies are able to do it: TSMC, which dominates the chip manufacturing industry, as well as South Korea’s Samsung and US firm Intel. TSMC is in the lead, with the other two “still in the stage of improv-

The logo of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is seen at headquarters in Hsinchu. Taiwanese tech titan TSMC has started mass producing its cutting-edge 2-nanometre semiconductor chips, the company said in a statement seen by AFP.

ing yield” and lacking large-scale customers, said TrendForce analyst Joanne Chiao. Japanese chipmaker Rapidus is also building a plant in northern Japan to make 2nm chips, with mass production slated for 2027. What’s the political impact? TSMC’s path to mass 2nm production has not always been smooth. Taiwanese prosecutors charged three people in August with stealing trade secrets related to 2nm chips to help Tokyo Electron, a Japanese company that makes equipment for TSMC. “This case involves critical national core technologies vital to Taiwan’s industrial lifeline,” the high prosecutors’ office said at the time. Geopolitical factors and trade wars are also at play.

Nikkei Asia reported this summer that TSMC, which counts Nvidia and Apple among its clients, will not use Chinese chipmaking equipment in its 2nm production lines to avoid disruption from potential US restrictions. TSMC says they plan to speed up production of 2nm chips in the United States, currently targeted for “the end of the decade”. How small is two nanometres? Extremely tiny -- for reference, an atom is approximately 0.1 nanometres across. But in fact 2nm does not refer to the actual size of the chip itself, or any chip components, and is just a marketing term. Instead “the smaller the number, the higher the density” of these components, Chiao told AFP.

IBM says 2nm designs can fit up to 50 billion transistors, tiny components smaller than a virus, on a chip the size of a fingernail. To create the transistors, slices of silicon are etched, treated and combined with thin films of other materials. A higher density of transistors results in a smaller chip or one the same size with faster processing power. Can chips get even better? Yes, and TSMC is already developing “1.4-nanometre” technology, reportedly to go into mass production around 2028, with Samsung and Intel not far behind. TSMC started high-volume 3nm production in 2023, and Taiwanese media says the company is already building a 1.4nm chip factory in the city of Taichung. AFP

Global wellness leaders take centerstage to drive health innovation in ‘2025 Go Healthy with Taiwan’ By Marielle Reyes THE Go Healthy with Taiwan Awards Ceremony brought together global innovators whose ideas place people at the center of health and well-being. Commissioned by the International Trade Administration (TITA), Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and executed by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the campaign was launched to promote and cultivate international collaboration by highlighting Taiwan’s holistic health solutions and high-quality products. It specifically invited governments, enterprises, institutions, and organizations worldwide to submit innovative proposals that leverage Taiwan’s world-class expertise to improve global well-being. First place went to the United States, followed by Switzerland and Ukraine, honoring proposals that addressed real-

THE year 2025 became a milestone year for vivo Philippines, opening a new decade of innovation as the brand celebrated its 10th anniversary on October 5. The celebration honored 10 years of bringing thoughtful technology to Filipinos and strengthening the vivo fam community, a movement shaped by shared experiences and passion for photography. “Reaching ten years in the Philippines is a proud moment for vivo,” said Liu Lu, Brand Marketing Director of vivo Philippines. “It’s a testament to the trust our users place in us and the strong community we’ve built together. We are excited to keep delivering innovation that inspires and connects our fans.” Phones launched in 2025 from the X Series to the Y Series vivo elevated smartphone photography and performance across every tier in 2025. The X Series led the year with the vivo X300 Series, earning its spotlight as the Telephoto King built for long-range imaging precision, and

Go Healthy with Taiwan’ innovators are shown here

world challenges through sport technology, sustainable energy, and digital

resilience in healthcare. The ceremony in Taipei reflected

Taiwan’s growing role as a partner in global health collaboration. Each presentation offered a glimpse into how different societies approach care, prevention, and wellness. Together, they told a story of shared responsibility and collective progress. The Top 6 Finalists of the event are: · Asosiasi Pengusaha Teknologi Informasi Dan Komunikasi Nasional (APTIKNAS) (Indonesia) · Charitable organization Charitable Fund “Medical Innovations” (Ukraine) · Ideaslab Inc. (USA) · Perovskia Solar AG (Switzerland) · Rainbow Holidays Ltd. (New Zealand) · Solutions in Technology, Innovation and Mobility SANTIN SAS de CV (IMATEC MX) (Mexico) They were all recognized in the event for their contributions in shaping the future of global well-being with innovation, creativity, and impact. #GoHealthywithTaiwan

Nvidia expands AI empire with Groq talent grab SAN FRANCISCO— Nvidia has hired the leadership of a promising AI chip startup, a statement said Wednesday, as the artificial intelligence giant expands its tech empire. Chip maker Groq said the departure of its top executives was part of a non-exclusive licensing agreement with Nvidia for its inference technology, as both companies seek to expand access to low-cost AI processing. Under the agreement, Groq founder Jonathan Ross and president Sunny Madra, along with other team members, will join Nvidia to help develop and scale the Groq’s technology. Nvidia’s domination of the AI training chip market has made it the world’s biggest company by market valuation, but it faces increasing competition in the inference segment from specialized startups like Groq. AI inference refers to the process of running pre-trained AI models to make predictions or generate responses – such as when ChatGPT answers a user’s question or when an image recognition system identifies objects in a photo. Groq will remain an independent company under new chief executive Simon Edwards, the firm said in a short statement. The release of the statement shortly followed a report by CNBC that Nvidia was buying Groq outright for $20 billion, though a source close to the matter told AFP that no sale had taken place. The arrangement resembles an “acquihire” – a practice increasingly common in Silicon Valley where larger tech companies poach key staff from smaller firms, leaving a small remnant of the company behind. The practice is largely designed to evade the scrutiny of competition regulators that have become skittish about tech giants snapping up promising companies that stand a chance of becoming rivals. Recent examples include Microsoft’s deal with AI startup Inflection AI in 2024, which saw co-founder Mustafa Suleyman and much of the team join Microsoft while the company remained independent. Google has also made similar moves, bringing on teams from AI startups like Character.AI in 2024. Meta’s 2025 deal to invest $14.3 billion in Scale AI and hire its CEO, Alexandr Wang, to lead its new “superintelligence” AI lab is considered one of the biggest acquihires yet.

vivo PH 2025 Roundup: Big year, bigger things ahead the vivo X200 FE, a flagship compact engineered for users who want powerful performance in a sleek, everyday-ready design. The vivo and ZEISS partnership continued to deliver world-class optics, culminating in the vivo X300 Pro, equipped with the 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera, a breakthrough that pushed clarity, depth, and portrait detail to new heights. 2025 also marked a pivotal product moment for the local tech market with the launch of the vivo X Fold5, the first foldable smartphone vivo has ever introduced in the Philippines, signaling the brand’s entry into nextgeneration mobile form factors for Filipino consumers who want productivity, performance, and portability in one premium device. The V Series maintained its annual tradition of launching two core devices, but 2025 brought a

After a successful 2025, vivo Philippines opens 2026 with strong momentum, beginning with the arrival of another V Series powerhouse in the first quarter.

category-first moment. The vivo V50 sustained the signature V design and performance fans love, while the vivo V60 became the first V Series phone to feature a

telephoto camera co-engineered with ZEISS, marking a new era for mid-range portrait and zoom versatility. To widen choices for style-driven and value-smart us-

ers, vivo also launched the vivo V50 Lite and vivo V60 Lite, offering more accessible entry points while preserving the essentials of reliable performance and thoughtful design. The Y Series completed the year by launching entry-level smartphones built for everyday confidence. The vivo Y04 Series, vivo Y21d, and vivo Y29 introduced a balanced experience centered on lasting battery life, improved durability for active lifestyles, and capable cameras that make meaningful features more affordable for budget-smart users. “From flagship to entry-level, our 2025 lineup reflects vivo’s mission to provide innovation for every user,” said Liu Lu. “Whether you prioritize photography, performance, or everyday convenience, we want every device to empower our community to capture and share their moments.”

SHOWBIZ

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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

Dingdong Dantes (center) leads ‘The Master Cutter,’ an action series that centers on a man whose ordinary profession conceals a dangerous double life

Jillian Ward (left) and David Licauco headline ‘Never Say Die,’ an actiondrama that tests loyalty and truth

How GMA Network

Ruru Madrid stars in ‘Hari ng Tondo,’ expanding GMA’s slate of actiondriven series

is setting the tone for Filipino storytelling in 2026 Very Wang

MA Network is not playing it safe in 2026. Instead of relying on familiar formulas, it is moving forward with original stories that put Filipino voices at the center.

With a lineup that spans action, drama, entertainment, and film, GMA signals its intent to take the lead by setting the pace of what audiences watch and talk about this year. Primetime remains the network’s main engine. Dingdong Dantes leads The Master Cutter, an action series built around a man whose ordinary profession hides a dangerous double life. The premise is familiar, but the execution leans into pacing and scale, supported by a cast that includes Paolo Contis, Max Collins, Jo Berry, Shuvee Etrata, Charlie Flemming, and child star Sienna Stevens. Another high-profile pairing arrives in Never Say Die, which brings together Jillian Ward and David Licauco in an action-drama where truth carries consequences and loyalty is tested. The show places its characters in a world shaped by moral trade-offs, supported by a multigenerational cast that includes Angelu de Leon and Raymart Santiago. Mystery finds its space in The Secrets of Hotel 88, a drama that gathers familiar faces from the Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition and places them inside a single location where family ties, ambition,

and hidden histories collide. The series stars Mika Salamanca, Brent Manalo, AZ Martinez, Ralph de Leon, River Joseph, Klarisse De Guzman, Esnyr, Xyriel Manabat, Josh Ford, Kira Balinger, Dustin Yu, Bianca de Vera, and Will Ashley. Completing the primetime picture are projects that span genres: Alden Richards in medical drama Code Gray, Ruru Madrid in Hari ng Tondo, alongside Firewall, Whispers from Heaven, and the continuing world of Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre. Afternoon programming, long a quiet driver of daily viewing, leans into emotional storytelling. House of Lies brings back Beauty Gonzalez and Kris Bernal in a drama centered on survival, betrayal, and long-buried family wounds. Born to Shine shifts the lens to ambition and music, following young performers chasing a place in the competitive world of pop. Psychological tension surfaces in Apoy sa Dugo, while A Mother’s Tale explores contrasting ideas of motherhood and sacrifice. Entertainment programming takes a more mobile turn. The Boobay and

Nickie Wang

conversation, drawing humor from everyday pop culture. Established formats such as The Voice Kids and Stars on the Floor return, while NCAA Season 101 coverage keeps collegiate sports visible. There is also a clear nod to viewers who follow Asian dramas, with a long list of Korean and regional titles scheduled across the year. It reflects viewing habits that have long crossed borders, even before streaming normalized it. On the film side, GMA’s ambitions widen. 58th, an animated documentary directed by

Alden Richards takes on a medical drama role in ‘Code Gray,’ part of GMA’s genrespanning primetime lineup for 2026

Tekla Show on the Go! steps outside the studio, turning malls, campuses, and workplaces into backdrops for unscripted comedy. The People Have Spoken blends quiz segments and

Marcelito Pomoy earns standing ovation at Trump’s NYE event FILIPINO singer Marcelito Pomoy performed for U.S. President Donald Trump during a New Year’s Eve party at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Pomoy shared photos on Instagram showing him with Trump, along with a separate image taken with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump during the event. At the gathering, Pomoy performed the classics “The Prayer” and “Time to Say Goodbye.” Pomoy also posted a video on Facebook earlier this week showing a portion of his rendition of “Time to Say Goodbye” at Mar-a-Lago, where he received a standing ovation from guests. Pomoy rose to prominence in the Philippines after winning the second season of Pilipinas Got Talent in 2011, which aired on ABS-CBN. He later gained international attention for his dual vocal range, often described as a “golden female voice,” during an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2018. In 2020, Pomoy competed on America’s Got Talent: The Champions, further expanding his international profile. Marcelito Pomoy (left) performs at a New Year’s Eve event hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago

Carl Joseph Papa, revisits the Maguindanao massacre through the story of its last recorded victim, Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay. The choice of animation for such a subject suggests a careful approach to memory and testimony. GMA Pictures joins forces with Mentorque Productions for the horror feature Huwag Kang Titingin. The film stars Sofia Pablo, Allen Ansay, Marco Masa, Michael Sager, Sean Lucas, Kira Balinger, Josh Ford, Anthony Constantino, Charlie Fleming, Shuvee Etrata, and Sherilyn Reyes, under the helm of director Frasco Mortiz and written/creatively produced by Ays De Guzman.

The ‘Secrets of Hotel 88’ brings together familiar faces from ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition’ in a mysteryadventure family drama

‘Call Me Mother,’ led by Vice Ganda (left), Nadine Lustre, and child star Lucas Andalio (right), tops the MMFF 2025 boxoffice rankings despite overall festival earnings falling below expectations

Showbiz insider reveals underperforming box office numbers for MMFF 2025 TALENT manager and social media personality Ogie Diaz has released six-day box-office figures for the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival, showing weak results for this year’s entries. The showbiz insider did not reveal the source of his figures. From Dec. 25 to 30, the combined gross of the eight films reached only P350.8 million, below the P500 million mark. Several producers are concerned, as some films have yet to recover production costs. Leading the list is Call Me Mother, starring Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre, which earned P186.4 million. This is Vice Ganda’s tenth MMFF entry, maintaining his streak of top-performing festival films. In second place is the horror film Shake,

Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins, which earned P66.5 million, showing continued audience interest in the franchise. The middle rankings are close. Bar Boys: After School is third with P25.9 million, narrowly ahead of Unmarry at P25.6 million. UnMarry improved its performance after expanding its cinema count and gaining positive word of mouth. Other entries include Love You So Bad with P18.9 million, I’m Perfect with P12.5 million, Manila’s Finest with P10.8 million, and Rekonek with P4.1 million. As of writing, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), which organizes the annual festival, has not commented on Diaz’s numbers.

LIFE

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2026

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

From left: Fiber Blaze general manager Fro Olivia, managing director Alvin Morelos, brand ambassador Ronnie Alonte, president and CEO Mark Reyes, AJ Genaro, and Rich Gella

Business lessons

from budding entrepreneur Celebrity couple Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte continue to thrive as they expand their footprint in the food and hospitality scene

Ronnie Alonte

By Nickie Wang

T HAS been a remarkable year for actor and budding entrepreneur Ronnie Alonte. Before 2026 began, he surprised fans with news of his wedding to longtime partner Loisa Andalio and their first child on the way.

Ronnie Alonte keeps things grounded as he talks about planning ahead, a mindset he applies to both life and business

PLANTATION Bay, A Real Resort with a Real Spa, is a 12-hectare sanctuary of saltwater lagoons and tropical gardens on Mactan. But more than its physical beauty, the resort embodies a single man’s vision: Emmanuel “Manny” C. Gonzalez. He is the principal shareholder and the person credited with the conceptualization, design, and construction of the entire property. My encounter with him was not in a formal boardroom but within the living heart of his creation—an experience made profoundly personal when he signed his name on the pages of his soul. A vision forged from experience Manny Gonzalez’s path to creating Plantation Bay was far from conventional. A Columbia MBA and former international banker, he brought a global standard of quality to the venture. Yet his vision was deeply personal: to build not merely a hotel but a self-contained, flawless world. This ambition is realized through meticulous detail, a management team trained at institutions such as Cornell and The Ritz Escoffier in Paris, and service executed with five-star finesse. This commitment manifests in every corner— from the multiple international restaurants to the innovative “Call Us Home” program, which offers five-star assisted living for long-term stays. For Gonzalez, the resort is a holistic experience, a place where guests can leave the worries and details of daily life to someone else. The heart of the resort, captured in pages For the discerning guest or visitor wanting to take home more than a souvenir, the Plantation Bay Bazaar offers the true essence of the place: two exquisite coffee-table books. These are not generic promotional items but artistic testaments to the resort’s spirit. The books are titled Tales of Plantation Bay and The Many Moods of Plantation Bay. While Tales of Plantation Bay shares anecdotes, The Many Moods is particularly special, revealing a hidden dimension of the resort’s creator. This volume pairs stunning photography with original poetry penned by Manny Gonzalez himself. His verses are not about business or hospitality; they are intimate, melancholic, and beautiful meditations on time, memory, and quiet reflection. Tales of Plantation Bay is a collection of true stories from the resort’s staff and guests. These personal anecdotes and behind-thescenes moments reveal the community within— the small triumphs, daily magic, and shared memories that give the resort its heart. Reading these books, one understands that

Many assumed it was a hasty decision, but Ronnie says otherwise. Speaking with Manila Standard Life during his contract renewal with FiberBlaze, the 29-year-old shared that planning is central to his approach to both life and business. “We make plans, just like the proposal and the wedding—it was a one-year process,” he said. “Gusto lang talaga namin manggulat,” he added with a laugh. While keeping a low profile in showbiz, Ronnie is now focusing on his business ventures. Regarding his partnership with FiberBlaze, Ronnie admitted he did not expect the internet company to renew his contract. The executives, however, said they chose to continue the partnership because Ronnie exemplifies someone who thrives and continues to grow, a mindset that mirrors their own company vision. Ronnie discovered his entrepreneurial side during the pandemic, which was also when he began venturing into the food and hospitality business. “I had a lot on my plate pre-pandemic, then suddenly

everything hit pause. Loisa and I realized showbiz isn’t always consistent—projects and tapings aren’t guaranteed,” he explained. “So we decided that any income we earn moving forward, we would invest in business.” The couple now owns a beach resort in Zambales, two properties in Tagaytay’s Bamboo Hills, and an Airbnb in Biñan, Laguna. They also plan to convert Ronnie’s house into another resort and begin construction on their dream home this year. “What we do is buy properties and, if the value increases, we sell them. That’s where our money goes now,” he said. “Loisa and I just support each other.” Looking back on his journey, Ronnie shared a key business lesson: start early. “I wish I had started sooner. My advice to young people, whether you’re in showbiz or not, is to start putting up a business, invest as soon as you start earning, and make your money work for you. I know it’s not too late, but imagine if I had started investing back in 2016 when I began my showbiz career—I could have done even more.” For now, Ronnie is focused on growing his hospitality ventures, taking small steps at a time, and pursuing new expansion opportunities.

The soul of a sanctuary

Manny Gonzalez and the story of plantation bay

Waking up to the view of Plantation Bay’s lagoon makes a dip an absolute necessity

with a short message on the title page. That simple act transformed the book from a beautiful object into a personal artifact. The signature is not merely an autograph; it is a direct link from the visitor to the visionary, a tangible connection between Ardee de los Angeles the guest’s experience and the owner’s dream. It signifies that the soulful refuge one enjoys is not Plantation Bay is more than a business achievement; accidental but personally willed into it is Gonzalez’s attempt to create and capture those being. elusive “present-happy” moments, framing them Today, Plantation Bay continues within lagoons, gardens, and impeccable service so to evolve, offering everything from they might be fully recognized and felt. spa sanctuaries and delectable A personal encounter international dishes to shuttle and an enduring signature services to the largest mall Meeting Manny Gonzalez is to meet the quiet outside Metro Manila. Yet its philosopher behind the poems. When I had the core remains unchanged. It opportunity to speak with him, our conversation is the physical manifestation drifted from the operational excellence of the of Manny Gonzalez’s dual resort to the deeper intention behind it. He spoke legacy: the shrewd, educated of creating a space for genuine peace, a concept businessman who built echoed in his poem Quiet, which speaks of a world-class resort, and “quiet cheers for quiet tears.” the introspective poet who As our meeting concluded, I was presented a understands that the highest copy of Tales of Plantation Bay. Gonzalez, with luxury is a moment of perfect, a thoughtful pause, inscribed his signature along

Dee-tails

Aside from fresh buko, the coconut bar also serves warm, traditional bibingka for the holiday season

recognized happiness. The resort is his story, his poem, and his lasting gift to those seeking sanctuary, with his signature forever etched in its foundations and, for the lucky few, within its pages. Manny Gonzalez graciously signs the author’s copy of the book, ‘Tales of Plantation Bay’