Manila Standard - 2026 January 16 - Friday by Manila Standard

manilastandard.net

@ManilaStandardPH

@mnlstandardph

@manilastandard

@ManilaStandardYT

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

Boying confirms Bonoan gave PBBM wrong coordinates By Pot Chavez and Charles Dantes Bonoan overstaying in US, gov’t eyes deportation

NEWS / A2

OMBUDSMAN Jesus Crispin Remulla yesterday confirmed that former DPWH secretary Manuel Bonoan gave the wrong coordinates to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Next page

VOL. XXXIX • NO. 335 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P20 • FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

DOJ names 4 state witnesses 3 ex-DWPH execs, contractor dropped from criminal cases over flood control By Pot Chavez

HREE officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways and a contractor have been named as state witnesses in cases involving anomalous flood control projects, the Department of Justice said yesterday.

Roberto Bernardo

Henry Alcantara

Gerard Opulencia

Sally Santos

Justice Acting Secretary Fredderick Vida said former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, former DPWH Bulacan District Engineer Henry Alcantara, former DPWH-NCR Regional Director

Gerard Opulencia and SYMS Construction Trading owner Sally Santos are now immune from criminal liability “Being discharged from criminal liability is a right of state witnesses,

Ombudsman to file fresh raps vs. flood control actors today By Pot Chavez THE Office of the Ombudsman will file fresh criminal charges today against individuals implicated in alleged anomalies in flood control projects, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced yesterday. “We are filing a case before the Sandiganbayan. Tuloy-tuloy ito (this will be continuous),” Remulla said during a press briefing, declining to disclose further details ahead of the filing.

PH, JAPAN SIGN 3 KEY AGREEMENTS NEWS / A3

P10-m bounty for Atong Ang’s capture—DILG

Fire hits DPWH Cordillera office NEWS / A2 “Evidence is our priority. We are not going for probable cause. We want reasonable certainty of conviction,” he added. Cases involving public officials with Salary Grade 27 and above are filed before the Sandiganbayan, the special anti-graft court. So far, the Ombudsman has filed two batches of cases related to the flood control controversy. These include malversation and graft charges against resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co and 16 others over a P289-million substandard road dike project in Oriental Mindoro, filed before the Sandiganbayan.

specifically in the particular case that they are helping us with...But for other cases, that is subject to another discussion,” Vida said. “They are cooperating with the DOJ to strengthen our cases against those we are pursuing,” he added. However, former DPWH engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza, who also applied for the Witness Protection Program, did not qualify as state witnesses, Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said.

LIKHANG FILIPINO. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos lead the re-opening of ‘Likhang Filipino’ exhibit yesterday in Pasay City. Liking Filipino showcases 6 galleries exhibiting Philippine artistry and craftsmanship and will welcome guests and dignitaries in the upcoming ASEAN Summit this year. PPA

INTERIOR and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla said the government will provide a P10million reward for information leading to the arrest of Charlie “Atong” Ang, the primary suspect in the missing sabungero case.. Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) has requested the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to issue a red notice against Ang, now considered a fugitive from justice. “The DILG will offer a P10-million reward for his arrest. Any information leading to the conclusive arrest of Atong Ang will merit a P10-million reward,” Remulla said, adding that the bounty was meant to speed up

PBBM vows aid for Binaliw collapse victims By Charles Dantes, Rex Espiritu, and Rio N. Araja PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday led a moment of silence for the victims of the landfill landslide in Barangay Binaliw, Cebu City, as he assured the public of government assistance for the victims while ensuring accountability over the disaster. Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Thursday reported that national response units, local government partners, and private sector teams further boosted search, retrieval, and rescue operations at the Binaliw sanitary landfill in Cebu following the collapse of its materials recovery facility. Next page

Solon, contractor offered a total of P2-b to stop probe—Jonvic A CONGRESSMAN and a contractor allegedly tried to bribe Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla and his brother, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla, with a total of P2 billion amid the flood control corruption probe. Jonvic said the attempts were made

through “emissaries” of a “contractor” and an “incumbent congressman-contractor.” “There are two already. Two groups have attempted to bribe us… a contractor and a congressman who is a contractor. Yes, times two. A Visayas-Mindanao group, a Luzon group,” he told

PH to block off Elon Musk’s ‘Grok’ over deepfakes—DICT THE Philippines said Thursday it plans to block Elon Musk’s Grok “by tonight,” joining Southeast Asian neighbors Malaysia and Indonesia in barring access to the chatbot that has drawn fire over AI-generated sexual-

ized deepfakes. The news came hours after social media platform X said it was taking measures to prevent its chatbot from undressing images of real Next page

EXPERIENCE SINULOG TO THE MAX. Celebrate faith, culture, and unforgettable moments as SM Seaside City Cebu and SM City Cebu unite for AweSM Cebu 2026, turning Sinulog into a month-long, high-octane celebration from January 3–28. The celebration hits its peak on Sinulog Day with electrifying performances and the spectacular return of the ILLUMINIGHT Sinulog Drone & Pyro Show, igniting the Cebu skyline.

Dobol B TV in an interview. “They want us to help them with their case. They should be removed from the list and given bail; that’s what they are asking for,” Remulla added. Asked why they were not immediately arrested, Jonvic said the suspects

could easily deny that the bribe attempts came from them and dismissed the reports as “hearsay,” as these were not direct offers. Jonvic said he did not reach out to the congressman and contractor after the incidents, as he did not personally Next page

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

‘Bonoan overstaying in US’

MBUDSMAN Jesus Crispin Remulla said Thursday that former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan remains in the United States beyond the period allowed under his visa based on current information.

Meanwhile, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said Bonoan is among the personalities expected to appear before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee during its January 19 hearing. Lacson said the committee may cite Bonoan in contempt and issue a warrant of legislative arrest should he again fail to attend the proceedings. “His stay will expire; he cannot stay there forever. The longest stay in the US is six months. If he goes beyond that, his stay becomes unauthorized, and if not extradition, deportation will happen,” he explained. The veteran lawmaker added that the Senate panel is prepared to coordinate with Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Babe Romualdez to facilitate cooperation with US authorities if deportation becomes necessary.

Bonoan, who is being investigated in connection with alleged anomalies in flood control projects, was originally set to return to the country by December 17, 2025. Vida said Bonoan’s camp has yet to respond to his requests. Earlier, the DOJ said it is monitoring Bonoan’s travel, as he is under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO). “Being under the ILBO means that there is real-time monitoring and reporting of all his movements. The DOJ and the government are closely monitoring Mr. Bonoan’s every move. Whether he is in the United States, has moved to another country, or has traveled within the US, his passport will necessarily be stamped,” Justice Department spokesperson Polo Martinez said.

Remulla said US immigration authorities have the power to determine whether Bonoan’s stay has become unauthorized and may order his removal if violations are found. “He is in America and is already overstaying... they can already send him home or deport him,” he said. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has demanded that the lawyer of former DPWH chief Manuel Bonoan provide details on his whereabouts in the United States, after he failed to return to the Philippines in December. “Before Christmas, Secretary Bono-

an’s lawyer emailed me informing me that he would not be able to return as earlier promised because there was some issue with his wife’s operation,” Justice Secretary Frederick Vida said. “What I did was, okay, I took note of what you said. But first, give me information about when he will return, and secondly, I need information on your relatives that you are keeping in the US and where,” he added. According to Remulla, the deportation process would fall solely under US jurisdiction and will not require a separate request from Philippine officials.

Boying... From A1

Fire hits DPWH Cordillera regional office

In a press briefing, Remulla shared that they had information that some suspects deliberately made the wrong coordinates. “Iyong 421 ghost projects is much less, hindi siya 421… Noong tinitingnan namin iyong 421 ghost [projects], marami talagang improbable kaya alam namin nanggaling din sa first district [of] Bulacan iyong binago para iyan ang mangyari,” he said. He added that it was done by Bonoan or any of the officials from the said Bulacan district. “May nagmali talaga ng grid coordinates para hindi siya ma-geotag ng tama,” said Remulla. Meanwhile, Malacañang yesterday said it is still verifying claims by Senator Panfilo Lacson that former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan allegedly submitted inaccurate data on flood control projects to confuse government inspections. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro told reporters that the administration cannot yet confirm the senator’s allegations. “We are still verifying what Senator Lacson said, so we cannot provide details at this time,” she said. Castro said the president supports investigations into any officials involved in questionable projects. “If they were involved, they must be investigated,” she stated. When asked about Bonoan, who reportedly promised to return to the Philippines last December but remains abroad, Castro said only that he needs to return to the country and could not comment on his personal commitments. She emphasized that former officials, even if outside the country, remain subject to Philippine law and could face charges if evidence warrants.

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Wednesday evening confirmed the structural fire incident earlier reported at its Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) office in Baguio’s Engineer’s Hill past 5 p.m. In a statement, the DPWH said the fire was successfully extinguished, with the site now fully secured. “Initial assessment by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) indicates that the affected area was limited to approximately two square meters of the office,” the statement read. “No DPWH employee was injured in the said incident,” it added.

PH... From A1 people, including children, amid a growing global backlash and the launch of an investigation in the US state of California. “We need to clean the internet now, because much toxic content is appearing, especially with the advent of AI,” telecommunications secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda told a press briefing announcing the decision. Renato Paraiso, acting executive director of the country’s cybercrime center, told Agence France Presse (AFP) the block would take effect within the day. “By tonight or within today, we are expecting (Grok) to be blocked in the entire Philippines,” Paraiso said. “We are expecting the telcos to immediately comply with the (National Telecommunications Commission) order, so of course we will monitor it.” He added that X’s pledge to limit access would have no effect on the government’s plans. “We cannot make decisions based on announcements,” Paraiso said, adding they would watch to see if the platform carries through with its promises. Indonesia on Saturday became the first country to block access to Grok entirely, with Malaysia following the next day.

PBBM... From A1 The number of fatalities in the deadly landslide climbed to 25, with authorities saying search and rescue operations continued without letup. Eleven people remain missing in the tragedy. During an event in Balamban, Cebu, President Marcos asked for prayers for those who died in the Jan. 8 collapse of the landfill. “As search and rescue operations

P10-m... From A1 Ang’s arrest/ The DILG chief called on Ang to stop evading arrest and cooperate with authorities. “Surrender now peacefully and we will treat you with respect. If you become a fugitive from the law, then we will treat you like a fugitive,” Remulla told Ang. He added though that law enforcement operations will strictly follow due process. “The PNP has no plans for extra judicial killing.” According to Remulla, some 320,000 policemen have been directed to take part in the nationwide manhunt for Ang, now tagged by the government as the “most wanted criminal in the country.” In the same press briefing, Remulla said Ang, with the kind of cases he is facing, is now considered the “No.1 most wanted person” in the country. Earlier, a Batangas trial court issued four warrants of arrest for homicide and serious illegal detention against 18 individuals linked to the disappearance of more than 100 cockfighting enthusiasts during the height of E-sabong operations. Seventeen suspects, 10 policemen and seven civilians, are already in police custody, while authorities continue to track down Ang. With Ang considered as “armed and dangerous,” the PNP has sought the revocation of licenses for six firearms registered under his name. Remulla said once arrested, Ang will be brought to Camp Crame in Quezon Ctty before being transferred to a detention facility under the jurisdiction of the court that issued the warrants “Although [based on] our recent monitoring, he is still in the country. We have also requested the NCB (National Central Bureau) Manila of the Interpol for a red notice,” CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said in a press briefing Thursday. “In case Ang has left the country through the back door or whatever, other countries that are members of Interpol may arrest him,” he added. An Interpol red notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action. Morico also said they are already coordinating with the Bureau of Immigration for the issuance of a hold departure order against Ang.

caused the incident. Fireout was declared at 5:43 p.m., according to Baguio City Fire Station Fire Marshal F Supt Mark Anthony Dangatan.

return the balance of the P1 billion in restitution under his memorandum of agreement with the DOJ. Vida, however, clarified that restitution is not the only consideration in being named a state witness. On Wednesday, Alcantara put an end to claims he has recanted his testimonies on flood control project kickbacks of politicians, saying these are “false and misleading.” “The public must remain vigilant and should obtain information only from verified, identifiable, and reliable sources. Any information coming from sources other than the Department of Justice or from the undersigned should be treated

with caution for potential inaccuracy,” Alcantara’s lawyer, Emil Karlo Joven, in a statement. Last week, Ramon Esguerra, lawyer of Senator Joel Villanueva, claimed former Alcantara retracted his earlier statements. Villanueva was among the sitting senators, along with Jinggoy Estrada, named by Alcantara in September during a Senate hearing as being involved in budget insertions and alleged kickbacks from flood control projects. Alcantara previously told the Senate that flood control project proponents get as much as 25 to 30 percent of the proposed insertions.

know them and such actions are outside his function as Interior and Local Government secretary. Asked about Boying’s reaction to the bribe offers, Jonvic said, “He laughed, saying, ‘Do they really think so little of us?’”

continue, we offer our prayers for the souls of the departed and strength to their grieving families,” the President said, calling for a moment of silence in honor of the victims. Marcos said the government was taking all necessary steps to ensure safety, transparency and accountability in response to the tragedy. He added that burial support and other forms of assistance are being extended to families and individuals affected by the incident. The President also urged the public to stand in solidarity with those impact-

ed, emphasizing compassion and unity as communities cope with the aftermath of the tragedy. The Cebu City Council has previously declared a state of calamity in the area to allow swift emergency response and access to disaster funds to aid victims. Search and rescue teams are continuing operations at the site despite difficult conditions, focusing on areas where victims might still be trapped. DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla designated lawyer John Edward Ang as director of the Environmental Manage-

ment Bureau in Region 7. He directed Ang to strengthen safety protocols and engineering controls across all waste and earth-moving facilities in the region, with particular attention to the stability of waste mounds during periods of heavy rainfall. He cited that leadership transition is a standard management action intended to enhance coordination and responsiveness during a critical period. When asked if Ang’s predecessor was relieved from his post because of the Binaliw trash tragedy, the DENR chief declined to comment.

DPWH CORDILLERA FIRE.

“We do not see the need yet to discharge them in the cases that they are (offering to help us with) to be accepted as state witnesses,” Fadullon said. The four state witnesses have already returned a total of P316,381,500 in restitution -- Alcantara with P181 million, Opulencia with P80 million, Santos with P20 million, and Bernardo with P35 million. In total, the DOJ said it expects a total of P1.5 billion in restitution from the four state witnesses Bernardo, in particular, will have to

Another set of malversation and graft charges was lodged before the Digos Regional Trial Court against contractor Sarah Discaya and several others over a P96.5-million alleged ghost flood control project in Davao Occidental.

Meanwhile, the DPWH is closely coordinating with the BFP and the Baguio local government to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into what

The Baguio City Fire Station said it was the Financial Management Records Room that was affected by the fire that broke out at the DPWH-Cordillera Administrative Region office on Wednesday afternoon. Dave Leprozo

DOJ... From A1

Ombudsman... From A1

Solon,... From A1

NEWS

A3 FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Hunger among Pinoys eases in Nov. By Katrina Manubay

HE proportion of Filipino families experiencing involuntary hunger decreased to 20.1% in November 2025, down from 22% in September of the same year, according to a survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The latest survey results indicate that the average hunger rate for 2025 was 20.2%, consistent with the 2024 average and 0.9 percentage points lower than the record-high average of 21.1% recorded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across different regions, the highest incidence of hunger was reported in Mindanao at 26.7%, followed by Metro Manila and the Visayas, both at 20.3%, and Balance Luzon at 16.7%. The SWS noted that the 1.9-point decline in hunger between September 2025 and November 2025 was attributed to decreases in Balance Luzon and Metro Manila, despite increases in Mindanao and the Visayas. The survey also revealed that the 20.1% hunger rate in November 2025 comprised 15.6% of families experiencing Moderate Hunger and 4.5% experiencing Severe Hunger. According to SWS, Moderate Hunger is defined as experiencing hunger “only once” or “a few times” in the past three months, while Severe Hunger refers to those experiencing hunger “often” or “always” during the same period. Compared with September 2025, Moderate Hunger fell by 1.1 percentage points from 16.7%, while Severe Hunger decreased by 0.7 percentage points from 5.2%.

Chinese can now enter PH visa-free for up to 14 days

ACCEPTANCE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. joins Tsuneishi Group Corporation in the naming and delivery ceremony of Hull No. SC443, an 81,200-metric-ton dual-fuel, methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier, in Balamban, Cebu, on January 15.

PH, Japan seal agreements to deepen ties By Katrina Manubay DEPARTMENT of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu on Thursday, January 15, sealed the implementation of three key bilateral agreements strengthening cooperation in defense and security, economic development, and infrastructure. During the ceremony, the two foreign ministers signed the Agreement Concerning Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).

This agreement, also known as the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA), aims to enhance military interoperability and readiness between the two nations, complementing the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA). In her keynote address, Lazaro emphasized the importance of strong engagement between their respective government agencies and the effective implementation of key bilateral instruments, including the RAA and the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA). “We highlighted the importance of robust engagement between our respective government agencies and the

implementation of key bilateral instruments such as the Reciprocal Access Agreement and the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement,” Lazaro said. The ACSA establishes a framework for procedures related to the reciprocal provision of goods and services between the AFP and the JSDF. Both foreign ministers also signed the Official Security Assistance (OSA) for Fiscal Year 2025, which aims to strengthen the Department of National Defense’s capacity to secure Philippine territory and improve capabilities to deter threats that could compromise peace, stability, and security in the region.

By Katrina Manubay CHINESE nationals can now enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days, starting Friday, January 16, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced. This visa-free entry arrangement will be in effect for one year and will be reviewed before it expires, the agency said in a statement issued Thursday. The DFA explained that the move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance trade, investments, and tourism while strengthening people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and China. In 2023, the DFA announced a temporary suspension of its e-Visa program amid rising tensions with Beijing over the West Philippine Sea and the arrest of Chinese nationals involved in local crimes. “Chinese nationals traveling to the Philippines strictly for tourism or business purposes may avail of the new visa-free entry privilege. The said privilege allows for a non-extendable 14-day stay, which is non-convertible to any other type of Philippine visa category,” the statement read.

IN BRIEF LTO reassigns regional directors amid probe LAND Transportation Office (LTO) chief Markus Lacanilao on Thursday ordered the reassignment of two regional directors to the central office amid corruption allegations and an ongoing probe. Pursuant to Department of Transportation Office Order No. 2026-011, Lacanilao issued a memorandum reassigning the directors of LTO Regions 7 (Central Visayas) and 4B (Mimaropa) to the LTO headquarters in Quezon City. The DoTr ordered the reassignment due to possible corruption committed by the two officials, citing the need to prevent interference with the investigation or the possible tampering of evidence “This reassignment is a clear signal of our resolve to pursue justice without compromise. We will not allow any individual to hinder efforts to cleanse our ranks and restore public trust in the LTO’s services,” Lacanilao said. Rio N. Araja

EDCOM II flags early learning gap in homes

WARM WELCOME. Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro (right) welcomes visiting Japanese Foreign Minister

Toshimitsu Motegi ahead of their bilateral meeting to strengthen Manila–Tokyo ties on January 15, 2026. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Lawyers, doctors file rap against Recto By Pot Chavez

FOR DEPORTATION. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announces that

Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy will be deported to Russia following his arrest for inappropriate acts during his visit to the Philippines, during a press briefing in Quezon City on January 15. Manny Palmero

A GROUP of lawyers and health advocates filed on Thursday criminal complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto. The complaint is in connection with the alleged illegal transfer of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) funds to the national treasury during his tenure as Finance secretary. Among the respondents also included former PhilHealth president Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. Meanwhile, the complainants were Dean Rodel Taton Jr., Dr. Cynthia Ng, Dr. Milagros Layson, Dr. Edna Medez, Dr. Noel Binayas, Dr. Cynthia Amatril, Dr. Maria Evelyn Divinagracia, and Justin Francis Binoyat. Other complainants were lawyer

Clyde Gacayan, Dr. Louie Tirador, and Dr. Marcelo Jaen. The filing is the second plunder complaint filed against Recto and Ledesma before the Office of the Ombudsman. Aside from plunder, the other charges were technical malversation, grave misconduct, and violation of the AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act. The group is asking the Ombudsman to conduct the necessary preliminary investigation, as well as to order their preventive suspension. In December, members of the Save the Philippines Coalition also filed complaints alleging that the said transfer was illegal. Earlier, the Supreme Court (SC) ordered the return of P60 billion in remitted funds to PhilHealth through the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

LESS than half of Filipino households with children aged 0 to 4 have basic learning resources at home, highlighting a major gap in early childhood development support, according to findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II). The forthcoming EDCOM II Final Report shows that only 48% of households with young children own educational toys, while just 40% report having children’s books at home, pointing to weak early stimulation during a critical stage of brain development. “This is a silent crisis that begins long before a child ever enters a classroom,” said EDCOM II Executive Director Dr. Karol Mark Yee, noting that early disadvantage already takes root in many Filipino homes, especially among low-income families. Ram Superable

New archbishop urges faithful to serve society NEWLY installed Archbishop David William Antonio has urged the faithful of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia to help build a church that serves the poor, defends life in all its forms, and works constructively with government and society. Speaking during his installation at the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur, Antonio said the Church must remain committed to promoting the “fullness of life” amid hunger, injustice, and social exclusion. “We need to remain a Church that proclaims fullness of life, that cannot turn away from hunger, injustice, or exclusion,” he said, citing Christ’s call for people to “have life and have it abundantly.” Vito Barcelo

NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF DOH told to make clear guidelines on MAIFIP SENATOR Risa Hontiveros on Thursday urged the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure that the new administrative order it is drafting on medical assistance would not only eliminate patronage politics as mandated by a provision in the 2026 budget, but also clearly lay down the process and requirements in receiving financial assistance. Hontiveros, chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, said the DOH’s revision of the guidelines on the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Persons (MAIFIP) must ultimately ease the patients’ access to financial aid. “The decision of the Senate and the House of Representatives is clear: there is no need to go door-todoor to beg for guarantee letters to gain medical attention,” Hontiveros said in Filipino. Rolando Ng III

PRC rolls out Safe Card project in Lapu-Lapu City THE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Wednesday, Jan. 14, launched its“Safe Card” project at the Savoy Hotel, Newtown Mactan Lapu-Lapu City, with prominent personalities and organizations pledging support to register or sponsor their employees, especially those in the healthcare sector, as volunteers and rescuers. For only P1,200 a year, the “Safe Card” involves membership and a preparedness program that connects to the organization’s nationwide network of trained responders and PRC services such as blood donation, disaster management, health, safety, welfare, and WASH, while serving as a gateway to active volunteerism. “The Safe Card is about preparedness, protection, and participation. It allows Filipino to be part of the Red Cross mission, ready to respond, ready to help, and ready to save lives when emergencies strike,” PRC chairman Richard Gordon said at the launch and press briefing event. Minerva Newman

MEDICAL OUTREACH. Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandolval marks her birthday with a medical mission for her constituents, implemented in collaboration with the International Academy of Medical Specialists. Andrew Rabulan

DSWD: Over 4.1m indigent seniors got their social pension last year By Maricel V. Cruz

ORE than 4.1 million indigent senior citizens have received their social pension in 2025, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said. “The DSWD implements the Social Pension Program for Indigent senior citizens or SocPen as a mechanism to augment the medical needs and daily subsistence of qualified indigent seniors. Last year, a total of 4,112,895 indigent senior citizens benefited from

the program,” said DSWD assistant secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao. Dumlao said with the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 11916 (An Act Increasing the Social Pension of Senior Citizens), qualified indigent

senior citizens were able to receive a monthly pension of P1,000, up from the previous P500 per month. The P1,000-monthly stipend is being distributed to beneficiaries on a quarterly basis. “Initially, for 2025, the original target was 4,085,066 beneficiaries. But we were able to exceed the target, with 4,112,895 total beneficiaries,” Dumlao pointed out. For 2026, she said the SocPen program received a funding allotment of P51.8 billion to accommodate additional indigent senior citizens. “We also want to remind the public

MEET NURSE SUSIE. The

Fewer air passengers violate gun ban—OTS

Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Waste Management (HCWM), in partnership with civil society organization BAN Toxics, introduces to the public “Nurse Susie,” a cartoon character spearheading environmental sustainability in healthcare. Nurse Susie serves as a friendly reminder to promote the campaign’s 4Cs framework: Change old habits, Cut plastics, Commit to reuse, and Champion sustainability. Manny Palmero

AIR travelers continue to bring firearms and other prohibited items to airports nationwide, although the number of intercepted banned items decreased last year by 16.54 percent compared to 2024, according to the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) . The OTS noted the decline in the number of cases of intercepted banned items to 1,434,596 in 2025 as opposed to 1,718,852 in 2024. Some of the passengers apprehended with firearms and bullets were either active or retired members of the police and the military, the OTS said. Joel E. Zurbano

DHSUD sets meetings with homeowners to resolve concerns By Rio N. Araja THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is set to meet with various homeowners associations (HOAs) as part of its proactive efforts to resolve their concerns and to capacitate grassroot groups to maximize their potentials in community-building. Housing Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling tasked supervising senior Undersecretary Sharon Faith Paquiz, Undersecretary Roman Nicholo Molina and

HOA and Community Development Bureau director Ling Rigor to host conferences with various HOAs, initially in Metro Manila to address their issues and concerns. The DHSUD is hosting a conference with members and officials of the Multinational Village HOA Inc. today (Friday) in preparation for its mandated election on Jan. 25. The HOACDB is also scheduled to hold dialogues with HOAs in Region IV A in collaboration with the DHSUD Regional Office IV A.

‘‘These engagements with HOAs in the grassroots are part of the Department›s efforts to keep all stakeholders well-informed, particularly home owners, about their rights and the importance of HOA registration to protect them,’’ Paquiz said. “We will sustain these dialogues to capacitate HOAs as partners in community development,» she added. Aliling instructed DHSUD officials to tap HOAs as partners in community development. ‘‘In accordance with the order of

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., we will bring services closer to HOAs so that we can maximize their potential as frontliners in their communities and partners of the government in nationbuilding,’’ he said. “It is important that HOAs are wellinformed and educated about DHSUD policies and guidelines to avoid problems and conflicts, and to make our HOAs more productive and stable,’’ he said. To date, there are over 26,000 HOAs duly registered with the DHSUD.

3 global experts to lead scientific forum on endocrinology, diabetes

INFO CAMPAIGN. Perpetual Help Medical Center-Las Piñas led by Dr. Karen Latorre conducts dialogues with barangay health workers of Noveleta, Cavite in keeping with its community outreach program to promote essential information on hepatitis and liver cancer prevention among the people. Dennis Abrina

A LEADING healthcare solutions company in Asia has announced that three internationally recognized experts in endocrinology and diabetes will headline a major scientific event in the Philippines to address challenges on obesity and diabetes. Zuellig Pharma said the event, dubbed “Twice as Bold: Breakthrough in Obesity and LeadingEdge in Diabetes,” is dedicated to exploring the latest advances in obesity and diabetes management. It is scheduled 5 p.m. Jan.26, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, to be presided by professors Luc Van Gaal, David Cummings and Roger Chen, According to the Zuellig, obesity

and diabetes now represent an intertwined cardiometabolic crisis in the Philippines, where millions of adults struggle with excess weight and metabolic dysfunction. The rising prevalence of these conditions has resulted in thousands of largely preventable deaths while significantly increasing the burden on the national healthcare system,” it said. “Because these health issues are so closely linked, any delay in treatment can trigger other comorbidities, such as cardiovascular events, kidney failure, and further serious complications that severely diminish both quality of life and economic productivity,” the firm added.

that the social pension program under the DSWD can only be given to eligible seniors, 60 years old and above who are frail, sickly, or with disability and without any pension from other government agencies. Meanwhile, the Department commends LGU-led initiatives of providing benefits to their elderly constituents under their Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA),” Dumlao explained. The SocPen program is implemented through the DSWD’s regional Field Offices in coordination with the local government units (LGUs).

Navy conducts security runs for ASEAN confabs By Rex Espiritu THE Philippine Navy’s Naval Forces Central (NFC) has conducted sealift missions and maritime security patrols across key areas in the Visayas as part of preparations for activities related to the forthcoming ASEAN Summit 2026. The drills, held Jan. 12-13, involving naval vessels BRP Manobo and Boat Attack 482 of the 2nd Patrol Boat Division, carried out coordinated operations within the command’s area of responsibility to support transport and security requirements for the upcoming conference. BRP Manobo undertook sealift missions in Bohol, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of military personnel, rolling cargoes, and equipment intended for the ASEAN summit-related activities The Navy said the mission proceeded smoothly following thorough planning, close supervision, and the implementation of strict safety protocols. For its part, BA-482 conducted maritime security patrols while enroute to Capt. Veloso Pier at Naval Base Rafael Ramos in Lapu-Lapu City. “Both maritime and naval operations affirmed the Command’s role in supporting transport and maritime security requirements across various areas in the Visayas in preparation for the conduct of various activities and engagements for the ASEAN Summit 2026 in the Visayas region,” the Navy said. Meanwhile, Philippine National Police acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said they have been preparing for the ASEAN conference for more than one year. Nartatez said the PNP is coordinating with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and concerned local government units, as well as other law enforcement agencies to ensure peace and order during the country’s hosting of the ASEAN meetings and related events.

OPINION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Hidden motive? COUNCILOR Joel Garganera has dived deep into the tragedy of the Binaliw landfill trash slide and speaks like an expert on dumps, trash and accidents involving these. Because he is one, no doubt about it. Garganera, a member of the opposition group in the Cebu City council, had proposed a waste-to-energy facility in Barangay Guba, a mountainous area also in Cebu City. He had it approved by the city council but the project ran into an avalanche of opposition. Residents cried out loud because, one, the facility would surely emit foul smell. Two, there are no road infrastructures in the village large enough for garbage trucks. And three, particles that would be released by the facility were sure to kill vegetables being grown organically in the area. So he should know what he’s talking about. The problem redounds to one word, though: Motive. The tragic incident at the Binaliw landfill is currently being attributed to natural forces, such as relentless rains in recent days and loose soil conditions. However, Garganera is inclined to shift the responsibility onto individuals, particularly those at Prime Waste Solutions, who took over the landfill from a previous operator as recently as 2023. He has accused the Department of Environment and Natural Resources as well, although he seems to have overlooked the challenges he faced in operating a Wasteto-Energy facility in another community, hindered mainly by the environmental safeguards imposed by the DENR to prevent potential ecological disasters. Hypocrite? We won’t go that far to describe his motives. But while he has promised to start an investigation based on science and expert findings, he has already reached his own conclusions—that a company that is still in the process of professionalizing the landfill operations to turn it into a materials recovery facility and the DENR are squarely to blame. On the basis of what facts, or findings, only Garganera would know with his supposed expertise on trash and landfills. Questions arise on top of those being asked about why the trash slide happened and these are about what makes Garganera fume against PWS and the DENR. Could it be because the good councilor wants another company, said to be with Chinese backers, to take over the Binaliw facility? Could it be because he himself wants to establish a WTE facility in the area building on what has been done already? These are just questions that rise from the remains of the trash slide. We do not attribute any wrongdoing on Garganera. But as he creates noise about who is to blame for the tragedy, these questions permeate the air like the smell of the failed WTE facility that would have emerged if he had succeeded in foisting it on the people of Barangay Guba. So far, at least 20 people have already

died in Binaliw and not a few are still missing. While the city government, PWS and other well-meaning groups and individuals are trying to help survivors cope with the trauma and loss, the good councilor is in frantic search of targets in his blame game. Criminalizing compliance Strip away the personalities, and the case against Ralph Recto reveals a far more troubling issue: the attempted criminalization of compliance. Recto implemented a law passed by Congress. That is not controversial. That is the job of the Executive.

—“—

The Supreme Court later invalidated the provision, but explicitly stated that those who enforced it in good faith cannot be held liable The Supreme Court later invalidated the provision, but explicitly stated that those who enforced it in good faith cannot be held liable. That distinction is not technical. It is foundational. Without it, no law can be safely implemented. Every statute becomes provisional. Every official must hesitate, second-guess, and delay—fearful that today’s mandate could become tomorrow’s indictment. That is not how government functions. The Supreme Court recognized this danger and shut the door on retroactive criminal liability. It explained that obedience to Congress cannot be punished. It emphasized that good faith matters. It rejected the idea that later unconstitutionality turns past compliance into a crime. Yet the complaint persists. What message does that send to public servants? It tells them that even if they follow the law, secure clearances, and act transparently, they can still be dragged into court years later—after the issue has been resolved, after the funds have been restored, after the institution has been strengthened. That is not accountability. That is deterrence by fear. PhilHealth did not collapse because of the transfer. It did not lose capacity. It did not suffer permanent damage. In fact, it emerged with a larger budget and stronger mandate. If that is the outcome, then the continued pursuit of criminal charges is no longer about protecting public funds. It is about testing how far prosecution can be stretched. That is a test we should not allow. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Manila’s Finest: A review WATCHING Manila’s Finest felt less like consuming a conventional crime film and more like being pulled into a memory, one that is heavy, uneasy, and quietly unsettling. As someone who has seen the movie, what stayed with me most was not a single explosive moment, but the cumulative weight of its atmosphere and the way it made me sit with its questions long after the screen went dark. From the opening scenes, I was struck by how convincingly the film recreates 1960s Manila. It doesn’t romanticize the period. Instead, it presents the city as humid, claustrophobic, and morally suffocating. The rain-soaked streets, dim interiors, and smoky rooms felt lived-in rather than staged, and I often found myself paying attention to background details: the peeling walls, the flicker of neon, the tired faces passing through the frame. Manila isn’t just a setting here; it feels like a presence pressing down on every character, especially Homer Magtibay. Homer is the kind of protagonist who doesn’t ask for admiration, and that made him compelling to watch. As I followed him through the story, I felt his exhaustion more than his toughness.

He carries himself like a man who has already lost a few battles but keeps showing up anyway, not because he believes things will improve, but because he doesn’t know how to stop. There’s something quietly devastating about that.

—“—

The cinematography leans into darkness and shadow, but never feels careless or muddy The performance avoids big emotional outbursts, and instead relies on restraint: lingering looks, pauses in conversation, the way Homer seems to brace himself before making even small decisions. Those details made him feel real to me, not like a stylized noir hero. The moral dilemmas hit harder than the plot mechanics. Watching Homer navigate corruption within the police force and pressure from powerful figures made me reflect on how compromise works in real life, not as a single dramatic choice, but as a series of small concessions.

ManilaStandard

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

ONLINE

can be accessed at: manilastandard.net

MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

Declining public trust in corruption probes

HE latest Pulse Asia survey indicating a decline in the number of Filipinos who believe officials involved in anomalous flood control projects will be punished offers a snapshot of public trust in accountability mechanisms under the current administration. While 59 percent still believe that erring officials will face consequences, the downward trend itself is significant, as this reflects not confidence but erosion of public faith in the accountability process shaped by the absence of visible outcomes. The fact that nearly six in 10 Filipinos still expect punishment suggests that trust in formal institutions has not totally collapsed. Filipinos continue to believe in the capacity of the government, through the Ombudsman, the courts, or executive offices, to act against corruption. This confidence may be attributed to repeated official pronouncements emphasizing transparency, as well as the symbolic importance of flood control as a public service rather than a routine infrastructure concern. Flood control failures, after all, are experienced by people in terms of submerged homes, lost livelihoods, and preventable deaths. That gravity sustains public expecta-

tion that wrongdoing in this sector cannot be ignored.

—“—

The fact that nearly six in 10 Filipinos still expect punishment suggests that trust in formal institutions has not totally collapsed However, the decline in belief is more politically important than the absolute majority figure. Public opinion does not deteriorate in a vacuum. The drop likely reflects a familiar pattern in Philippine governance: highprofile exposés followed by slow or selective accountability.

Filipinos have seen this before in grand investigations announced, congressional hearings televised, yet few senior officials or politically connected contractors ultimately convicted. When sanctions do occur, they often target lower-level functionaries, reinforcing the perception that impunity remains intact at the top. Flood control projects, in particular, have long been associated with systemic vulnerabilities: bloated budgets, repeat funding for ineffective structures, and projects that fail conspicuously during typhoons. Against this backdrop, skepticism is a totally rational response. Each subsequent flood that overwhelms supposedly completed projects weakens the credibility of official assurances and fuels the sense that corruption is deeply embedded in government. The timing of the survey, conducted in Dec. 2025, is also relevant. By then, public discourse had already witnessed months of allegations, audits, and political sparring, but few concrete resolutions. In such circumstances, patience wears thin. Filipinos may still hope for accountability, but hope appears to be really fading, depending on whether the government can demonstrate tangible results rather than procedural optics.

One year in, Trump shattering global order WASHINGTON, DC – One year into his second term, US President Donald Trump is shattering the post-World War II order as never before, leaving a world that may be unrecognizable once he is through. Far from slowing down, Trump -- who turns 80 in June -- has rung in the new year with a slew of aggressive actions that brazenly defy the decades-old structure championed by the United States. Trump on Jan. 3 ordered an attack on oil-rich Venezuela that left more than 100 people dead in which commandos snatched leftist president Nicolas Maduro, a longtime US nemesis. Since then, Trump has threatened force against both friend and foe. The Republican leader has ramped up calls to seize Greenland from NATO ally Denmark and warned of striking Iran as the clerical regime violently represses protests. He has also mused of military action in both Colombia and Mexico, although has appeared to back down after speaking to their presidents -- a mercurial style his supporters say shows that Trump prefers diplomacy when he can achieve outcomes he likes. But Trump has also jettisoned traditional ways of statecraft as he vows to go it alone in his “America First” vision, most recently pulling the United States out of dozens more UN bodies and other international groups. “Many international organizations now serve a globalist project rooted in the discredited fantasy of the ‘End of History,’” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, referring to the post-Cold War hope of a stable world with a consensus for democracy. Trump’s unrepentant embrace of force has also played out at home. Led by Vice President JD Vance, his administration offered not even pro forma sympathy when a masked anti-immigration agent fatally shot a motorist in Minneapolis, instead

surging in forces. Stephen Miller, the architect of Trump’s racially charged anti-immigrant campaign who has played a growing role in foreign policy as White House deputy chief of staff, said it was time to move beyond “international niceties.” “We live in a world, in the real world... that is governed by strength, that is governed by force, that is governed by power,” Miller said in a CNN interview. No higher purpose The United States led the creation of post-World War II international institutions from the United Nations to NATO, which Trump has also denounced as unfair to the United States.

US leaders have frequently been accused of hypocrisy, such as in 2003 when George W. Bush invaded Iraq after bypassing the United Nations. The difference, some observers say, is that Trump rarely even makes the pretense of pursuing higher “universal” principles such as promoting democracy. In Venezuela, where Rubio and others had long branded Maduro illegitimate after reports of wide election irregularities, Trump has dismissed the opposition and said he wants to work with Maduro’s vice president, the new interim leader.

Trump said the priority was to control Venezuela’s oil and that he would wield the threat of force to keep the country in line. French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the current American approach could spell an era of “new colonialism and new imperialism,” four years after Russia invaded Ukraine. “The United States is an established power, but one that is gradually turning away from some of its allies and breaking free from international rules that it was still promoting recently,” Macron said. Permanent changes Melanie Sisson, a fellow at the Brookings Institution, said the United States had long succeeded “without having to attack, conquer and invade.” “We were generally able to get our way, more often than not, using other tools of influence, exercised through international organizations and alliances,” she said. Even if Europe pines for the liberal order, Sisson said other powers are sure to follow Trump’s lead in pursuing raw selfinterest. “I don’t think there’s going to be a reconstruction of the post-World War II international order as we might recognize it,” she said. “That doesn’t mean some of the core principles of that order couldn’t be reconstituted, but Trump is reshaping international politics in a way that will be durable.” One diplomat from a US ally, who spoke on condition of anonymity to be frank, said even if Trump’s methods can be shocking, the time was ripe for change. Russia and Israel both pursued military campaigns unimpeded by wide international condemnation, he said. “It was clear that the global order wasn’t working, even if we pretended it was.” AFP

The film doesn’t offer easy answers, and, as I watched, I realized it wasn’t asking me to judge Homer so much as understand him. Visually, the film left a strong impression on me. The cinematography leans into darkness and shadow, but never feels careless or muddy. Every scene seems designed to reinforce the emotional state of the characters. The production design is especially effective; it feels researched and intentional, grounding the story firmly in its period. I never felt pulled out of the film by anything that looked anachronistic or artificial. Director Raymond Red brings to Manila’s Finest the same meticulous artistry and uncompromising vision that earned him international recognition as one of

the Philippines’ most accomplished independent filmmakers. Red made history in 2000 when his short film Anino won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, making him the first and only Filipino to receive this prestigious honor. With Manila’s Finest, Red applies this same sensibility to the crime genre, transforming what could have been a standard police procedural into a meditation on moral compromise and institutional decay. The film’s sweep across technical categories, particularly in cinematography, production design, music, and sound, reflects the strength of Raymond Red’s creative vision and craft. By the end, Manila’s Finest didn’t leave me with a sense of closure so much as reflection. Some narrative threads feel in-

complete, and I can understand why that might frustrate certain viewers. Personally, though, that messiness felt appropriate. The world the film depicts doesn’t offer neat conclusions, and the story’s rough edges mirror that reality. Ultimately, my experience with Manila’s Finest was a quiet but lasting one. It’s not a film I would describe as immediately entertaining, but it is deeply absorbing. I admired its craftsmanship, respected its patience, and connected with its emotional honesty. Red delivers a thoughtful, visually rich crime drama that trusts the audience to engage with its themes. For viewers like me who appreciate slow-burn, character-driven films, Manila’s Finest is a rewarding and resonant experience.

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

—“—

Some observers say Trump rarely even makes the pretense of pursuing higher ‘universal’ principles such as promoting democracy

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

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Greenlanders torn between anxiety and relief after White House talks

NUUK, Denmark – Greenland’s residents expressed a mix of anxiety and relief after a meeting was held Wednesday in the White House between officials from the United States, Denmark and the island at the center of President Donald Trump’s focus. The foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland, an autonomous territory under Copenhagen’s sovereignty, met on Wednesday with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in an attempt to clear up “misunderstandings” after Trump spoke repeatedly of the possibility of seizing the island. “It’s very frightening because it’s such a big thing,” said Vera Stidsen, 51, a teacher in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. “I hope that in the future we can continue to live as we have until now: in peace and without being disturbed,” Stidsen told AFP. Following the meeting, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed “fundamental disagreement” with Washington over the fate of the Arctic territory while Trump said he thought “something will work out.” Red and white Greenlandic flags flew in shop windows, on apartment balconies, and on cars and buses, in a show of national unity during the talks. In one shop in Nuuk, a t-shirt with the slogan “Greenland is not for sale” was almost sold out, according to an AFP reporter. Faced with comments by Donald Trump that the US would “have” Greenland “one way or the other”, authorities there were working to keep a sense of calm for the island’s 57,000 residents. AFP

IN BRIEF Quebec leader resigns before fall vote MONTREAL – Quebec’s premier announced plans to resign on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time), months ahead of an election that could see a separatist party return to power in the French-speaking province. Francois Legault, a successful airline entrepreneur before entering politics, charted a new path in Quebec, where power had for decades swung between the federalist Liberal Party and secessionist Parti Quebecois. Legault had previous ties to the separatist movement, but his Coalition for the Future of Quebec did not move to organize a referendum since coming to power in 2018. He has maintained that he views Quebec as a “nation,” which must vigorously defend the French language and its distinct culture but that independence was not immediately viable. He was comfortably re-elected as premier in 2022, but his poll numbers have since plummeted. AFP

Family of ICE officer’s victim hires law firm NEW YORK – The family of the woman shot dead by a US immigration officer in Minneapolis has hired a law firm to probe the killing that sparked protests but which the White House says was self-defense. Renee Nicole Good, 37, was shot dead in her car by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis on Jan. 7 as the Trump administration pressed operations to catch undocumented migrants in the midwestern state of Minnesota. The move announced Wednesday by Good’s family to hire the Romanucci and Blandin law firm to conduct a probe could pave the way for them to sue the US government for wrongful killing. “The legal team intends to conduct its civil investigation with an understanding that transparency is essential in this case of national importance,” the lawyers said in a statement. AFP

US: Gaza truce plan entering phase two CAIRO – A US-backed plan to end the war in Gaza was moving into its second phase, Washington’s top negotiator said Wednesday, as Palestinian factions agreed on the make-up of a post-war governing committee. President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff wrote on X that phase two of the US leader’s 20-point plan would shift the Palestinian territory “from ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic governance and reconstruction”. Phase one, launched in October, involved a ceasefire, a hostage-prisoner exchange, partial Israeli withdrawal and a surge of humanitarian aid. Under the second phase, Gaza would be run by a 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee supervised by a so-called “Board of Peace,” to be chaired by Trump himself. Egypt said all the members of the committee had been agreed upon by all Palestinian factions, which swiftly offered their support. AFP

Tehran says ‘no plan for hanging’ W ASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump said Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) he had been told the killings of protesters in Iran had been halted, but added that he would “watch it and see” about threatened military action.

Trump had repeatedly talked in recent days about coming to the aid of the Iranian people over the crackdown on protests that rights groups say has left at least 3,428 people dead. But in a surprise announcement at the White House, Trump said he had now received assurances from “very important sources on the other side” that Tehran had now stopped, and that executions

would not go ahead. “They’ve said the killing has stopped and the executions won’t take place -there were supposed to be a lot of executions today and that the executions won’t take place -- and we’re going to find out,” Trump said. He offered no details and noted that the United States had yet to verify the claims.

Asked by an AFP reporter in the Oval Office if US military action was now off the table, Trump replied: “We’re going to watch it and see what the process is.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later said there would be “no hanging today or tomorrow,” in an interview with US network Fox News. “I can tell you, I’m confident that there is no plan for hanging,” Araghchi said, also accusing Israel of orchestrating violence, without providing evidence. A rights group said separately that the execution of an Iranian man arrested during the wave of protests, 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, would not take place as scheduled on Wednesday, citing relatives. But Araghchi said the Iranian government was “in full control” and reported an atmosphere of “calm” after what he

called three days of “terrorist operation.” Iran also struck a defiant tone about responding to any US attack, as Washington appeared to draw down staff at a base in Qatar that Tehran targeted in a strike last year. Iran targeted the Al Udeid base in June in retaliation for US strikes on its nuclear facilities. Ali Shamkhani, a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned Trump the strike showed “Iran’s will and capability to respond to any attack.” Fears of possible US military action continued to rile the region. The British government said its embassy in Tehran had been “temporarily closed,” while the US embassy in Saudi Arabia urged staff to exercise caution and avoid military installations. AFP

AI chatbot Grok barred from undressing images

‘UNPRECEDENTED BRUTALITY.’ A woman holds a banner with the pre-1979 Islamic Revolution Iranian flag (left) and Israeli flag (right) during a demonstration in solidarity with Iranian protestors, in Israel’s central city of Holon on Wednsday. Iran’s long-time foe Israel has openly backed the protesters and expressed optimism about possible regime change, without suggesting it would intervene. US President Donald Trump had repeatedly talked in recent days about coming to the aid of the Iranian people over the crackdown on protests that rights groups say has left at least 3,428 people dead. AFP

Russia expels UK envoy accused of being spy MOSCOW – Russia said Thursday it was expelling a British diplomat, calling him an undercover spy in the latest espionage accusation between Moscow and London. The Kremlin has long singled out Britain as one of the most hostile Western states -- with relations virtually frozen even before Moscow’s full-scale offensive on Ukraine. The two countries have expelled each others’ embassy staff several times in recent years. Moscow-London ties have been plagued by spy allegations for decades

and were already at their lowest point before Russia’s 2022 Ukraine attack. Since then, Britain became one of Kyiv’s strongest backers. Russia’s FSB security service named the man it was expelling as Gareth Samuel Davies -- listed on Moscow’s official database of accredited diplomats as the embassy’s second secretary. Russia’s foreign ministry summoned the UK’s charge d’affaires, saying it issued a “strong protest” and that it had received information that “one of the embassy’s diplomatic staff belongs to the

UK’s intelligence service.” “The individual’s accreditation is being revoked. He is required to leave the Russian Federation within two weeks,” the ministry said. Expulsions by one side have typically been followed up by a tit-for-tat response from the other. Russia warned Britain not to “escalate the situation”, pledging to deliver a “firm symmetrical response,” should London retaliate. The UK has not yet commented on the accusation. AFP

SAN FRANCISCO – Elon Musk’s platform X on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) announced measures to prevent its AI chatbot Grok from undressing images of real people, following global backlash over its generation of sexualized photos of women and children. The announcement comes after California’s attorney general launched an investigation into Musk’s xAI -- the developer of Grok -- over the sexually explicit material and multiple countries either blocked access to the chatbot or launched their own probes. X said it will “geoblock the ability” of all Grok and X users to create images of people in “bikinis, underwear, and similar attire” in those jurisdictions where such actions are deemed illegal. “We have implemented technological measures to prevent the Grok account from allowing the editing of images of real people in revealing clothing such as bikinis,” X’s safety team said in a statement. “This restriction applies to all users, including paid subscribers.” In an “extra layer of protection,” image creation and the ability to edit photos via X’s Grok account was now only available to paid subscribers, the statement added. The European Commission, which acts as the EU’s digital watchdog, earlier said it had taken note of “additional measures X is taking to ban Grok from generating sexualized images of women and children.” “We will carefully assess these changes to make sure they effectively protect citizens in the EU,” European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier said in a statement, which followed sharp criticism over the nonconsensual undressed images. AFP

Fatal back-to-back crane failures tied to same firm BANGKOK – The collapse of a highway construction crane killed two people near Bangkok on Thursday, with a Thai minister saying the building firm was also involved in a crane failure the day before that left 32 dead. Car dashcam footage verified by AFP showed the moment the massive crane fell on Thursday, unleashing clouds of dust as well as rubble across the area as several vehicles pulled over or reversed to avoid falling debris. Motorcycle-taxi driver Booncherd Laorium said he no longer felt safe driving in the suburb outside Bangkok. “I had goosebumps just thinking about how risky it is to be here. It could have happened to me,” the 69-year-old told AFP. “I still can’t get over yesterday’s incident, and this morning I heard another one happened again.”

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn linked firm Italian-Thai Development to the country’s second deadly crane collapse in two days, according to local media. The company was contracted to build a section of a China-backed high-speed rail project where another huge crane fell on Wednesday, in Nakhon Ratchasima province, derailing a passenger train below and killing 32 of nearly 200 people on board. “Yes, it is Italian-Thai. I still do not understand what happened,” Phiphat told local media on Thursday. “We have to find out the facts, whether it was an accident or something else,” he said, adding that two people were killed. The company -- one of Thailand’s biggest construction firms -- has seen several deadly accidents at its sites in recent years. AFP

READY FOR UNEXPECTED. Crew-11 mission astronauts Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, NASA astronaut Mike Fincke, NASA astronaut and mission commander Zena Cardman and JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui wave as they depart the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building en route to launch complex LC-39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida on Aug. 1, 2025. Four crewmembers aboard the International Space Station departed Thursday, Manila time, after a medical issue prompted their mission to be cut a month short -- a first for the orbiting laboratory. American astronauts Mike Fincke and Zena Cardman, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov and Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui were set to undock from the ISS at (0605 Friday, Manila time), after five months in space. AFP

LINE IN THE SAND. Men pass by a mosaic portraying the eyes of late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on the stairs at Calvario Square during a march in support of ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, called by workers in Caracas on Thursday, Manila time. Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez declared her country was entering a new era marked by greater tolerance towards political rivals, following the US ouster of her former boss Nicolas Maduro. AFP

US Senate backs down on Venezuela war powers after Trump pressure WASHINGTON, DC – Republicans in the US Senate on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time) dealt an all-but-certain defeat to a rare war powers resolution that would have curbed President Donald Trump’s authority to use military force in Venezuela. The measure advanced in a procedural vote last week after five Republican senators joined Democrats in support -- a stunning setback for Trump after he ordered a strike that captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. The vote was widely seen as a rebuke of the Republican president’s Venezuela operation, which he authorized without notifying members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Trump lashed out at the defectors on social media within hours and the White House mounted an aggressive lobbying campaign to sink the resolution. On Wednesday, Senate Republicans

deployed a procedural maneuver -- stripping the resolution of its “privileged” status, which would have allowed passage by simple majority -- arguing that the rule did not apply because there are no ongoing hostilities. That makes success in any final approval vote a near impossibility. Republicans have a 53-47 Senate majority, meaning there are not enough Democrats to push it past its new 60-vote threshold. “Trump claims his war in Venezuela is righteous. If that’s the case, why is he browbeating his party into using a procedural scheme to avoid a debate and vote in Congress in front of the American people?” said Democrat Tim Kaine. The Virginia senator spearheaded the resolution after US special forces captured Maduro in Caracas on January 3, saying it was meant to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional power to declare war. AFP

SPORTS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

Tropang 5G underdogs in finals, says Reyes By Peter Atencio

TNT’s Poy Erram drives to the basket against two Meralco defenders in a game won by the Tropang 5G, 99-96.

Fernandez lends name to PBA’s MVP Trophy

FIFA receives more than 500M World Cup ticket requests LOS ANGELES—Football’s global governing body FIFA said Wednesday it had received more than 500 million requests for tickets to this year’s World Cup despite rumbling controversy over sky-high prices to attend the event. FIFA said in a statement it had received applications from fans in all of its 211 member nations and territories for the tournament staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The window for submitting requests to be entered in a lottery which will allocate tickets closed on Tuesday. FIFA said fans would be notified of whether their requests had been successful “no earlier than 5 February.” Outside of the tournament’s host nations, FIFA said the heaviest demand came from fans in Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Colombia. The most requested ticket was Colombia’s clash with Portugal in Miami on June 27, followed by Mexico’s game against South Korea in Guadalajara on June 18, and the World Cup final in New Jersey on July 19. “Half a billion ticket requests in just over a month is more than demand – it’s a global statement,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said. “I would like to thank and congratulate football fans everywhere for this extraordinary response.” “Knowing how much this tournament means to people around the world, our only regret is that we cannot welcome every fan inside the stadiums.” FIFA has faced sharp criticism over its ticket pricing strategy for the 48-team tournament, with fan groups branding the cost as “extortionate” and “astronomical.” Football Supporters Europe (FSE) said ticket prices were almost five times higher than at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. AFP

THE TNT Tropang 5G are going to be the underdogs in the coming 50th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup best-of-seven finals series. Coach Chot Reyes said this as the Tropang 5G rest their weary legs, after their gruelling semifinal series with the Meralco Bolts. “Coming into the semifinals series, we were slightly favored to win. But going into the final, whether it’s San Miguel or Ginebra, we’re going to be the underdogs,” said Reyes. “That’s because they have the bigs, and we don’t have the bigs. They have the talent and crowd support. And that’s something we cannot control,” added Reyes. The Tropang 5G advanced to their fourth straight finals by eliminating the Meralco Bolts, 4–1, in their best-ofseven semis series, with a slim 99–96 victory in Game 5 on Wednesday at the Araneta Coliseum. Reyes’ crew, who drew 31 points from Jordan Heading, is building a winning tradition in the league, after having won 11 championships behind their 25 finals’ appearances. They now wait for the outcome of the San Miguel BeerBarangay Ginebra semis series. In Game 5, JuneMar Fajardo made 21 points and 11 rebounds for defending champion San Miguel Beer, which is now a game away from another title shot, following a 115-109 stopping of the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings, The Beermen will seek to grab a finals seat in their next clash with the Gin Kings on Friday.

Ramon Fernandez

HE PBA Press Corps announced on Thursday the introduction of the Ramon Fernandez Trophy that will be handed out to the winner of the Finals Most Valuable Player.

Starting with the PBA’s 50th Season Philippine Cup Finals, the PBA Press Corps will present a trophy named in honor of Fernandez for his remarkable contributions that included a record 19 championships, the most by any player. Fernandez gave his blessing in a meeting with PBA Press Corps president Vladimir Eduarte of Abante/ Tonite and the group’s other officers during the 50th Season opener last Oct. 5 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. “To have the PBA Finals MVP trophy bear my name, especially in this 50th year, the Golden Anniversary of the Philippine Basketball Association, is something I never imagined yet will forever treasure. This is more than a personal recognition. It is a reminder of a lifetime shaped by the league that gave me purpose, pride and a second

family,” Fernandez said. “The PBA was my battlefield, my classroom and my home. It was where I learned discipline, sacrifice, resilience, teamwork, humility and the meaning of leadership under pressure. Every championship fought for, every Finals series endured, every cheer and every criticism...all of it molded the player and the man I became. I owe so much of who I am today to this league.” The first four-time Most Valuable Player won nine titles with the fabled Toyota franchise before adding three more for Tanduay and seven for San Miguel Beer, highlighted by a historic Grand Slam in 1989. Fernandez is also the league’s alltime leading scorer with 18,996 points, a record that may stand the test of time. “With those 19 championships,

who knows how many Finals MVP awards Fernandez could’ve won if such recognition had already been handed out during his time,” said Eduarte. “The Finals MVP trophy in Fernandez’s name is a well-deserved recognition the PBA Press Corps unanimously decided on.” The introduction of the Ramon Fernandez Trophy also comes as the Press Corps will mark 30 years since awarding its first Finals MVP, which was Jojo Lastimosa for Alaska in the 1996 All-Filipino Cup, two years after Fernandez played his 20th and last season as a pro with San Miguel. A plaque had been given out to each of the previous Finals MVP winners, whio are determined through votes by Press Corps members actively covering the PBA beat.

Drex Zamboanga eyes long-delayed BRAVE CF bow in 2026 By Nissi Icasiano DREX Zamboanga has waited long enough. After months of recovery and reflection, the 32-year-old resident of Quezon City is finally positioning himself for the moment that slipped away last year, his long-awaited promotional debut in BRAVE Combat Federation. “T-Rex” believes 2026 will mark the start of a crucial chapter in his mixed martial arts career as he looks to fully capitalize on the multi-bout contract he signed with the Bahrainbased organization in 2025. For Zamboanga, the upcoming months are about activity, opportunity, and making up for lost time. “It is really time for me to get back into action,” he told Manila Standard. “I signed with BRAVE CF to compete, and I am excited to finally do that in 2026.” Zamboanga was originally scheduled to report for duty at BRAVE

CF 95 in May 2025 by going up against unbeaten Bahraini prospect and ranked lightweight contender Ramazan Gitinov. The matchup carried high stakes, but plans were abruptly halted when Zamboanga suffered a lateral collateral ligament injury that forced him to withdraw just weeks before the fight. What followed was a long and demanding rehabilitation process. Zamboanga committed to months of physical therapy and strengthening exercises, determined to return without limitations. That persistence has paid off, as he has now been medically cleared to resume full training and, by extension, cleared to finally make his maiden BRAVE CF appearance. “I feel good again,” Zamboanga shared. “I am healthy, my confidence is back, and I am already getting my groove in training. It feels great to move freely and push myself without

Drex Zamboanga

worrying about the injury.” Widely regarded as one of the Philippines’ top homegrown talents in the sport, Zamboanga brings a wealth of experience into BRAVE CF. He owns a 14-6 professional record with 11 finishes and first made a name for himself in the local scene as the URCC bantamweight champion. Zamboanga captured the vacant strap with a stoppage win over veteran Rex De Lara in September 2017 and followed it up with a successful defense against South Korea’s Seung Hyun Cho via doctor’s stoppage in April 2019. He later transitioned to ONE Championship, where he compiled a 3-1 slate. Zamboanga earned victories over Detchadin Sorsirisuphathin, Rahul Raju, and Team Lakay’s Adonis Sevilleno before absorbing a narrow split decision loss to Chen Rui in June 2023.

Road to MOA begins as NBTC Regional Championships roll on MADNESS has started as the provincial teams hit the road for the 2026 Smart-NBTC National Finals presented by SM Supermalls. Twenty-four teams from the Southern Philippines take their first steps in Oroquieta City for the Mindanao Regional Championship starting on Thursday, with four tickets to the Nationals hanging in the balance. “We’re more than excited to hit the ground running. The local qualifying tournaments have unearthed some of the best in their respective provinces and we’re more than energized to see them test each other here in the Regional Championships,” said NBTC program director Eric Altamirano.

Shown here are (from left) Daniel Colinares of The Misfits, NBTC program director Eric Altamirano, and Oroquieta City mayor Lemuel Acosta.

For the second straight year, Oroquieta City serves as the gracious host for the first of four Regional Championships and Mayor Lemuel Acosta is hopeful that this staging would also produce future stars in Philippine basketball from Mindanao. “Oroquieta City is known as a sports region and isa sa mga goals ko is makapag-produce din tayo ng players na kukunin ng colleges, even in the pros,” he said of the competition that will run from Jan. 15 to 18 at Oroquieta City Bayfront Arena. Last year’s Palarong Pambansa MVP Rene Baterbonia banners the names to watch as he leads

the charge for Off-Campus Residences x Toyomoto from Davao City. The Jess Evangelio-coached side are aiming for the three-peat and more importantly, a return trip to the National Finals, which is set from March 22 to 29. But the competition is a lot stiffer this time out, with host team The Misfits from Oroquieta City, Toyland Bistro of Cagayan de Oro City, and Team Parola Panaon from Misamis Occidental all emerging as contenders for the crown. For anything and everything about the National Basketball Training Centre, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. NBTC

SPORTS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

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

Alcaraz career Grand Slam at 22 would be ‘crazy’, says Federer

It will be Alex Eala’s rising, all-court game against Alycia Parks’ explosive serve and baseline power.

Eala draws power-hitting Parks in Australian Open By Peter Atencio

ORLD No. 49 Alexandra Eala may enter the 2026 Australian Open women’s singles as an unseeded player, but few opening-round matchups will draw as much interest as her maindraw debut against American Alycia Parks when play begins Sunday in Melbourne. Eala’s first-round opponent brings pedigree and power. Parks, currently ranked No. 100, owns a career-high singles ranking of world No. 40, achieved in August 2023, and has long been regarded as one of the tour’s biggest hitters. The American also boasts a career-high doubles ranking of No. 27, set in September 2023. The clash will mark the first WTA Pro Tour meeting between the two, pitting Eala’s rising,

all-court game against Parks’ explosive serve and baseline power. Parks has already tasted success at the highest level, with one WTA singles title and two doubles titles to her name, including a WTA 1000 doubles crown at the 2023 Western & Southern Open. She has also collected five singles and three doubles titles on the WTA Challenger Tour. Parks made her WTA Tour main-draw debut in Charleston in 2021, advancing through qualifying as an alternate and earning a first-round win before bowing to top seed Ons Jabeur. She is perhaps best known for her raw power, highlighted at the US Open where she tied Venus Williams’ tournament record for the fastest serve ever recorded by a woman at 129 mph. While Parks brings experience and proven firepower, Eala arrives in Melbourne with momentum. Though unseeded, the Filipina is widely viewed as one of the young players to watch at the season’s first Grand Slam, following a breakout 2025 campaign that pushed her firmly into the spotlight. With Eala making her Australian Open main-draw debut, attention will also fall on fellow rising stars

Victoria Mboko and American Iva Jovic, with all three emerging from a standout 2025 season. “I didn’t even look at the draw. I just went match by match because you don’t know how far you are going to get and every round there was another big obstacle,” Eala said in an online interview, reflecting on her approach last year. Confidence has steadily built for Eala after winning her first Grand Slam main-draw match at last year’s US Open and reaching the semifinals of the Miami Open, where she stunned the tennis world with victories over Madison Keys, Jelena Ostapenko, and Iga Swiatek. Her rise has also been matched by a surge in support, with large Pinoy crowds following her run to her first WTA Tour finals appearance at the Eastbourne Open. That fan base grew further when a sizeable Filipino community in Mexico turned out for the 2025 Guadalajara WTA 125 Open, where Eala captured her first WTA singles title. “For sure, it gave me a lot of confidence to know that my level is there to play against the top players, but I know there is a lot more for me to do before I can be there consistently,” Eala said.

UST’s Emana, NU’s Abarquez secure wildcard WTA tennis slots UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas standout Kaye Ann Emana topped the playoffs for the two remaining wildcard slots in the Philippine Women’s Open that is set Jan. 26 to 31 at Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Manila. The 18-year-old Emana, an information technology student, turned back National University bet Elizabeth Abarquez 7-6, 7-6 (7-2), in the finals on Wednesday evening. “I’m thankful and excited to join my first WTA 125 tournament. Kinakabahan din ako, dahil alam kong mas magagaling ang mga players na makakalaban ko,” said Emana, the MVP of Season 87. Emana, along with Abarquez, will be wildcard entries in the main draw, with Tennielle Madis, a rising star from M’Lang, North Cotabato. Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Alexandra Eala, who will rise to a career-best No. 49 in the world rankings on Monday, is also a wildcard entry. Her participation will depend on the outcome of her Australian Open campaign. In reaching the finals, Emana first hurdled Joanna Pena, 6-2, 6-1, in the first round. She advanced to the quarterfinals off her 6-4, 6-4 toppling of top seed Tiffany Nocos, a software development student at Brigham Young University - Idaho. Stephanie Aludo settled for the bronze medal during the playoffs, 6- 4, 6-1, in besting Nocos. Peter Atencio

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio and Philippine Paralympic Committee president Mike Barredo lead the send-off ceremony for the Philippine para-athletes to the Asean Para-games in Bangkok, Thailand.

It’s PH para-athletes’ turn to shine By Randy M. Caluag THE first batch of Team Philippines bound for the 13th ASEAN Para Games departed on Thursday for Bangkok, Thailand, carrying the nation’s hopes in Southeast Asia’s premier multi-

sport event for athletes with disabilities scheduled from January 20 to 26. Backed by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), athletes, coaches and officials from para athletics, boccia, wheelchair fencing, para cycling, para swimming and para judo left the country

expressing confidence and pride as they prepared to represent the Philippines in the weeklong Games to be staged in Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. With six days remaining before the opening ceremony, Para Team Philippines was formally sent off

MELBOURNE—Roger Federer said on Thursday that Carlos Alcaraz winning the Australian Open to complete the career Grand Slam aged just 22 would be “crazy”. Spain’s Alcaraz already has six major titles but success on the Melbourne Park hard courts is a glaring hole in his resume. Should the world number one snap his Australia drought at the tournament starting on Sunday, he would become the youngest man to seal a career Grand Slam. “At his young age to be able to complete the career Grand Slam already would be crazy,” Swiss legend Federer said at Melbourne Park, where he will headline a “Battle of the World No.1s” at the official launch of the 2026 Australian Open on Saturday. “Let’s see if he’s able to do ‘crazy’ this week. I hope he does because for the game that would be an unbelievable and special moment.” Alcaraz is aiming to surpass retired compatriot Rafael Nadal, who secured all four majors by the age of 24, but the top seed has not made it past the quarter-finals in four previous Australian Opens. Federer, a six-time Melbourne champion, compared Alcaraz’s wait to lift the title there to Rory McIlroy’s agonising attempts to win a first Masters in golf. The Northern Irishman finally did it last year to complete the Grand Slam. “It’s like Rory going for the Masters. Those things are tough,” said Federer. Alcaraz faces home hope Adam Walton in the first round. The now-retired Federer was also asked by reporters about Joao Fonseca, an up-and-coming Brazilian tennis talent aged 19. Federer spoke glowingly of the teenager, saying: “What separates him from a lot of the other guys in the draw is just his power -- forehand, backhand, serve and just what he’s able to bring point by point. “He’s exciting, he’s got good aura, he’s a very likeable character as well. I like watching him play. AFP earlier in the week during a ceremony at the Diamond Hotel in Manila, underscoring strong government support for the national contingent. PSC chairperson John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio led the send-off, assuring the delegation of full state backing and urging the athletes to compete with the same resolve expected of the country’s able-bodied teams. “I want you to feel that you are very special to us, but at the same time, you have to deliver medals and compete very hard for our country,” Gregorio said. “The medal you earn in the ASEAN Para Games is the same medal we earn in the Southeast Asian Games. It is the same national anthem — there is no difference.” The 323-member Philippine delegation, composed of 212 paraathletes, 57 coaches and 54 team officials, will compete in 16 of the 19 para sports to be contested in the biennial meet. Philippine Paralympic Committee– PHILSPADA president Michael Barredo said the team is aiming to surpass its showing in the previous edition, where the Philippines finished fifth overall with 34 gold, 33 silver and 49 bronze medals.

Nxled completes revamp with Van Sickle, Pablo, Phillips, Tolentino THREE-TIME Premier Volleyball League Most Valuable Player Brooke Van Sickle has chosen familiarity over uncertainty. Following Petro Gazz’s decision to take a leave of absence, Van Sickle opted to stay close to home, reuniting with several former Angels at Nxled for the 2026 Premier Volleyball League season, the team announced Thursday. Van Sickle is not alone. The Chameleons are also welcoming two-time league MVP Myla Pablo, two-time Finals MVP MJ Phillips, and promising young setter Jules Tolentino, all set to reunite with their former teammates in their new home. All four players played pivotal roles in the Angels’ recent triumph in the season-ending Reinforced Conference, guiding fifth-seeded Petro

Brooke Van Sicke

Gazz to their third championship in the same conference and fourth overall. Now, they aim to recreate that same magic as they help Nxled pursue its first breakthrough in the league. Other former Petro Gazz players

Myla Pablo

MJ Phillips

who have joined the Chameleons include Jonah Sabete, Djanel Cheng, Bang Pineda, Ranya Musa, AA Adolfo, and Jellie Tempiatura. Nxled also signed veteran middle blocker Aby Maraño and setter Joyme Cagande from Chery Tiggo, along with middle blocker Aduke

Jules Tolentino

Ogunsanya from Choco Mucho— bringing their total number of new recruits to 14. They will join an Nxled core that includes Lyann de Guzman, Chiara Permentilla, Krich Macaslang, Lucille Almonte, Jovelyn Fernandez, EJ Laure, and Mayang Nuique, among others.

BUSINESS

Group pushes economic reforms WHAT’S INSIDE?

Hann, PhilWeb team up to expand online gaming

By Othel V. Campos

he Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc (FFCCCII) called on the government to pursue more ambitious economic reforms following a downward revision of the country’s growth targets for 2026 to 2028. The government recently adjusted its growth targets to 5 percent to 6 percent in 2026, rising to 6 percent to 7 percent by 2028. FFCCCII said these revisions account for challenges including global trade uncertainties and the lingering effects of a flood control corruption scandal. The business group warned that these figures should not limit the nation’s economic ambition. FFCCCII president Victor Lim said

sustained annual growth of 8 percent or more is necessary to transform the economy and drive inclusive development. Lim said growth benefiting only a few is growth betrayed and that a faster, larger and more robust economy provides the resources to ensure a rising tide lifts all boats. Lim cited regional benchmarks to support the call for higher targets, noting that Vietnam achieved 8 percent growth in 2025 and is

targeting 10 percent this year. He said global investors are attracted to countries perceived as disciplined, efficient and reformoriented. The FFCCCII called for immediate reforms including stronger investment in education and public health, the creation of an independent anticorruption body and the promotion of domestic manufacturing and agriculture. The group also pushed for transparent infrastructure development and a national strategy to grow tourism and the creative economy. Favorable macroeconomic fundamentals such as low inflation and potential interest rate cuts should serve as a launchpad for accelerated growth, the group said. FFCCCII urged a whole-of-nation effort to achieve the 8-percent growth milestone.

5.0% GDP growth in three quarters of 2025

5% to 6%

Growth target for 2026

6% to 7%

Growth target for 2027 to 2028

DOE to decide on Semirara coal contract extension in first quarter

BCDA extends John Hay golf contract

Remittances rose 3.6% in November

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

TOP TAXPAYERS. Enterprises operating in the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) are among the province’s top tax

contributors recognized by the provincial government of Bataan during the Sinag ng Bataan awards on Jan. 9, 2026 at the Bataan Tourism pavilion in Balanga City as part of the province’s 269th Foundation Day. Among the awardees is Mitsumi Philippines Inc., named Top 1 Taxpayer under the one-percent GIE share for Fiscal Year 2024. Receiving the award on behalf of Mitsumi is general manager Yoshitaka Kitahara (third from left) from Bataan Governor Joet Garcia, (second from left). Other awardees are East-Cam Tech Corp., Dunlop International Philippines Inc., Ruzena Estates Development Corp. and Essilor Manufacturing Philippines Inc. Joseph Muego

San Miguel unit to build 2,670 megawatts of solar power in Luzon, Mindanao By Alena Mae S. Flores SAN Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. and its partners plan to develop more than 2,670 megawatts of solar power projects in Luzon and Mindanao for completion between 2026 and 2029. The power arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp. told the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. that the expansion aims to reduce its carbon footprint and accelerate its transition to cleaner energy sources. The projects are being developed through its wholly owned subsidiary, SMC Global Light and Power Corp. The first phase of the rollout includes an initial capacity of 2,670 megawatts in Bataan, Davao, Bulacan and Isabela. It said these areas were selected for their high photovoltaic potential. The company intends to use N-type solar panels sourced from regional suppliers. As part of the initiative, the subsidiary signed

an investment and shareholders agreement with Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. on June 28, 2024, to develop a 110-megawatt solar project in Mariveles, Bataan. The facility will sit on 158 hectares of land owned by a San Miguel affiliate and is expected to be finished in 2026.

The Bataan project has already secured system impact and facilities studies approval from the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines. The Department of Energy also designated the facility as an Energy Project of National Significance in June 2023. Once operational, all electricity generated by the plant will be supplied to San Miguel Global Power or its affiliates under longterm contracts. SMC Global Light and Power was also named a winning bidder in the fourth round of the Green Energy Auction Program launched in March 2025. Its accepted bids cover 2,225 megawatts of floating and ground-mounted solar installations in Bulacan, Davao and Isabela. The government is expected to issue the certificates of award for these auction wins by Jan. 27, 2026. San Miguel Global Power said it would take a capital light approach to the developments by utilizing synergies with other San Miguel Corp. affiliates during construction.

THE Department of Energy expects to decide within the first quarter on an application by Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC) to extend its coal operating contract for another 13 years or until 2040. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the agency is weighing whether to grant the extension or open the area to a competitive bidding process. The company’s original 50-year term has concluded and the legal team is assessing if the claim for additional years is valid. The department said it is awaiting a final opinion from the Department of Justice on the legality of a contract extension. While no official notice has been received from other interested parties for the contract area, Garin noted that the site’s significant reserves and the complex technology required for its operation could draw interest. SMPC is the largest coal producer in the Philippines and operates as a vertically integrated power generation firm. The company was first granted its coal operating contract in 1977 and holds estimated reserves of 170 million metric tons on Semirara Island. In 2019, the contract area was expanded to include thousands of hectares on Caluya and Sibay islands. Despite record production levels, the company reported a 37-percent drop in net income to P9.9 billion in the first nine months of 2025. The decline from P15.7 billion in the previous year was attributed to weaker market prices for coal and electricity alongside higher production costs. Total shipments in the nine-month period rose 5 percent to a record 12.9 million metric tons, supported by exports and internal power plant requirements. Alena Mae S. Flores

CYAN CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK CYANMAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOWBLACK BLACK

BUSINESS

Manila Manila

Manila Standard Standard Standard TODAY TODAY

TODAY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com

PSEi rebounds on rate cut hopes, peso slips to 59.46 vs. US dollar

THE Philippine stock benchmark resumed its upward momentum Thursday, surging by more than 1.5 percent after two days of decline. The benchmark Philippine Stock Ex-change index soared 1.53 percent, or 97.72 points, to close at 6,487.53, while the Manila Manila Manila Standard Standard Standard broader all shares index added 24.76 points, or 0.68 percent, to close at 3,660.70. TODAY TODAY TODAY Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE Corp., said hopes of a 25-basis point ((Of Of Extra Extra Judicial Judicial Settlement Settlement of ofof Estate Estate ( Of Extra Judicial Settlement Estate)) ) rate cut in February by the Bangko Notice Notice hereby given totothe the public that Noticeisisishereby herebygiven givento thepublic publicthat that Sentral ng Pilipinas continue to fuel the the intestate intestate estate estate of of the the late late Edgardo Edgardo the intestate estate of the late Edgardo investor sentiment. The market’s Marcelo Marcelo Eugenio Eugenio (aka (aka Edgardo Edgardo M. M. Eugenio Eugenio Marcelo Eugenio (aka Edgardo M. Eugenio strong rise also followed a start-ofSr. Sr. ))has been been extrajudicially extrajudicially settled settled among among Sr. )has has been extrajudicially settled among the-year rally by other Asian and his his surviving heirs as per Deed ofofExtra Extra hissurviving survivingheirs heirsas asper perDeed Deedof Extra U.S. stocks. Analysts said buying Judicial Settlement ofofEstate Estate with Partial Judicial JudicialSettlement Settlementof Estatewith withPartial Partial pressure returned as investors were Waiver Waiver ofofRights Rights entered the Book ofof quick to look for bargains after the Waiverof Rightsentered enteredinininthe theBook Bookof Notary Notary Public Atty. Atty. Rodrigo S.S.de de Real as NotaryPublic Public Atty.Rodrigo RodrigoS. deReal Realas as market’s two-day pullback. Doc. Doc. No. 484; Page No. 98, Book No. 60, Doc.No. No.484; 484;Page PageNo. No.98, 98,Book BookNo. No.60, 60, Except for the mining and oil inSeries Series of ofof 2025 2025 Series 2025 dex, which declined 1.02 percent, (MS-JAN. (MS-JAN. 9/16/23, 9/16/23, 2026) 2026) (MS-JAN. 9/16/23, 2026) all other subsectors ended in the green. Services jumped 2.02 percent, followed by property and financials, which advanced 1.54 percent and 1.45 percent, respectively. Value turnover amounted to P6.97 billion. Market breadth was positive as gainers outnumbered losers 115 to 96, while 58 stocks closed unchanged. Jenniffer B. Austria

CYAN CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK CYANMAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOWBLACK BLACK

DRUGSTORE OPENING. St. Joseph Drug, Healthway FEU-NRMF

Jollibee posts steady fourth quarter growth

Medical Center and AC Health leadership celebrates the store opening in Quezon City. This marks St. Joseph Drug’s first location in Metro Manila and introduces its pioneering outpatient store format.

Hann, PhilWeb team up to expand online gaming By Jenniffer B. Austria

EXTRAJUDICIAL EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SETTLEMENT OFOFESTATE ESTATE EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE Notice Notice is ishereby hereby given given that that the theestate estate ofofdeceased deceased SPOUSES SPOUSES AUGUSTO AUGUSTO MENDOZA MENDOZA MANALO MANALO && & Notice is hereby given that the estate of deceased SPOUSES AUGUSTO MENDOZA MANALO RAQUEL RAQUEL MAYO MAYO MANALO MANALO (hereafter (hereafter referred referred asas “SPS. “SPS. MANALO”), MANALO”), who who died died onon21 21March March 2011 2011 RAQUEL MAYO MANALO (hereafter referred as “SPS. MANALO”), who died on 21 March 2011 and and 1818November November 2017, 2017, respectively, respectively, atatthe theNational National Kidney Kidney and and Transplant Transplant Institute, Institute, East East and 18 November 2017, respectively, at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, East Avenue, Avenue, Quezon Quezon City, City, and and atatthe theManila Manila Med-Medical Med-Medical center center Manila, Manila, Inc., Inc., 850 850 United United Nations Nations Avenue, Quezon City, and at the Manila Med-Medical center Manila, Inc., 850 United Nations Avenue Avenue cor. cor. Taft Taft Ave., Ave., Ermita, Ermita, Manila, Manila, respectively; respectively; has has been been extrajudicially extrajudicially settled settled among among their their Avenue cor. Taft Ave., Ermita, Manila, respectively; has been extrajudicially settled among their heirs. heirs. heirs. The The properties properties covered covered bybythe theextrajudicial extrajudicial settlement settlement executed executed bybythe theheirs heirs are areas asfollows: follows: The properties covered by the extrajudicial settlement executed by the heirs are as follows:

ANN Casino Resort has teamed up with gaming technology provider PhilWeb Corp to strengthen and expand its regulated online gaming operations in the Philippines. Under the agreement, PhilWeb will support the management

Parcels Parcels ofofLand Land Parcels of Land Document Document No. No.No. Location Location Document Location Transfer Transfer Certificate Certificate ofofTitle Title No. No.267430 267430 Municipality ofofAntipolo, Antipolo, Province Province ofofRizal Rizal Transfer Certificate of Title No. 267430 Municipality Municipality of Antipolo, Province of Rizal Transfer Transfer Certificate Certificate ofofTitle Title No. No.T-918532 T-918532 Municipality ofofCarmona, Carmona, Province Province ofofCavite Cavite Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-918532 Municipality Municipality of Carmona, Province of Cavite One-half One-half (1/2) (1/2) share share ofofTransfer Transfer Certificate Certificate Municipality Municipality ofofSan San Juan, Juan, Province Province ofof of One-half (1/2) share of Transfer Certificate Municipality of San Juan, Province ofofTitle Title No. No. T-43366 T-43366 Batangas Batangas of Title No. T-43366 Batangas Original Original Certificate Certificate of of Title Title No. No. 0-569 0-569 Municipality Municipality of of Agoncillo, Agoncillo, Province Province of of Original Certificate of Title No. 0-569 Municipality of Agoncillo, Province of Batangas Batangas Batangas Shares Shares ofofStock Stock Shares of Stock Issuing Issuing Corporation/Entity Corporation/Entity Issuing Corporation/Entity Medical Medical Test Test Systems, Systems, Inc. Inc.Inc. Medical Test Systems, Medical Medical Test Test Systems, Systems, Inc. Inc.Inc. Medical Test Systems, Medical Medical Test Test Systems, Systems, Inc. Inc.Inc. Medical Test Systems, Medical Medical Test Test Systems, Systems, Inc. Inc.Inc. Medical Test Systems, Medical Medical Test Test Systems, Systems, Inc. Inc.Inc. Medical Test Systems, Total Total Shares Shares Total Shares

Stock Stock Certificate Certificate No. No. Stock Certificate No. 374 374 374 668 668 668 894 894 894 964 964 964 965 965 965

No. No. ofofshares shares ofofstock stock No. of shares of stock 135 135 135 797979 441 441 441 256 256 256 116 116 116 1,027 1,027 1,027

Issuing Issuing Corporation/Entity Corporation/Entity Issuing Corporation/Entity UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, UPSI UPSI Property Property Holdings, Holdings, Inc. Inc.Inc. UPSI Property Holdings, Total Total Shares Shares Total Shares

Stock Stock Certificate Certificate No. No. Stock Certificate No. 248 248 248 362 362 362 473 473 473 573 573 573 709 709 709 1025 1025 1025 1148 1148 1148 1413 1413 1413 1585 1585 1585 2215 2215 2215 2744 2744 2744 3221 3221 3221 3767 3767 3767

No. No. ofofshares shares ofofstock stock No. of shares of stock 267 267 267 131313 55 5 200 200 200 484848 797979 242424 303030 999999 272 272 272 1,348 1,348 1,348 358 358 358 274 274 274 3,017 3,017 3,017

AsAsper perEXTRAJUDICIAL EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SETTLEMENT OFOFESTATE, ESTATE, which which was was executed executed ononJune June 9,9,2025 2025 and and As per EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, which was executed on June 9, 2025 and entered entered asasDoc. Doc. No. No.161, 161, Page Page No. No.34, 34,Book Book No. No.08, 08,Series Series ofof2025 2025 before before Notary Notary Public Public ATTY. ATTY. entered as Doc. No. 161, Page No. 34, Book No. 08, Series of 2025 before Notary Public ATTY. HOBERT HOBERT N.N.LLUZ LLUZ ofofBrgy. Brgy. Pio PioDel DelPilar, Pilar, Makati Makati City. City. HOBERT N. LLUZ of Brgy. Pio Del Pilar, Makati City. (MS-JAN. (MS-JAN. 9/16/23, 9/16/23, 2026) 2026) (MS-JAN. 9/16/23, 2026)

Republic Republic ofofof the the Philippines Philippines Republic the Philippines REGIONAL REGIONAL TRIAL TRIAL COURT COURT REGIONAL TRIAL COURT National National Capital Capital Judicial Judicial Region Region National Capital Judicial Region Branch Branch 281 281 Branch 281 Mandaluyong Mandaluyong City City Mandaluyong City rtc1mdl281@judiciary.gov.ph rtc1mdl281@judiciary.gov.ph rtc1mdl281@judiciary.gov.ph 0945601961617358-7701 0945601961617358-7701 0945601961617358-7701 IN ININ RE: RE: PETITION PETITION FOR FOR CANCELLATION CANCELLATION RE: PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OF OF SECOND SECOND BIRTH BIRTH CERTIFICATE CERTIFICATE OF OF OF SECOND BIRTH CERTIFICATE OF JERAMAY JERAMAY GAYOSO GAYOSO AND AND CORRECTION CORRECTION JERAMAY GAYOSO AND CORRECTION OF OF FIRST FIRST BIRTH BIRTH CERTIFICATE CERTIFICATE OF OF OF FIRST BIRTH CERTIFICATE OF JERAMAY JERAMAY GAYOSO GAYOSO GASPAR GASPAR JERAMAY GAYOSO GASPAR JERAMAY JERAMAY GAYOSO GAYOSO GASPAR, GASPAR, JERAMAY GAYOSO GASPAR, Petitioner, Petitioner, Petitioner, - -versus versus –– – - versus

TODAY

SP. SP. PROC. PROC. NO. NO. R-MND-25-00332-SP R-MND-25-00332-SP SP. PROC. NO. R-MND-25-00332-SP

PHILIPPINE PHILIPPINE STATISTICS STATISTICS AUTHORITY AUTHORITY PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY (FORMERLY (FORMERLY NATIONAL NATIONAL STATISTICS STATISTICS (FORMERLY NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE), OFFICE), OFFICE OFFICE OF OF THE THE CIVIL CIVIL OFFICE), OFFICE OF THE CIVIL REGISTRAR REGISTRAR GENERAL, GENERAL, LOCAL LOCAL CIVIL CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR REGISTRAR (CITY (CITY CIVIL CIVIL REGISTRAR) REGISTRAR) REGISTRAR (CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR) MANDALUYONG, MANDALUYONG, METRO METRO MANILA, MANILA, MANDALUYONG, METRO MANILA, LOCAL LOCAL CIVIL CIVIL REGISTRAR REGISTRAR (CITY (CITY CIVIL CIVIL LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR (CITY CIVIL REGISTRAR) REGISTRAR) SIPALAY SIPALAY CITY, CITY, NEGROS NEGROS REGISTRAR) SIPALAY CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, OCCIDENTAL, DJOHANNA DJOHANNA GARCIA GARCIA OCCIDENTAL, DJOHANNA GARCIA GAYOSO, GAYOSO, AND AND MANUELITO MANUELITO GAYOSO, AND MANUELITO LUMBANIA LUMBANIA GASPAR, GASPAR, LUMBANIA GASPAR, Respondents. Respondents. Respondents. x-------------------------------------------------------x x-------------------------------------------------------x x-------------------------------------------------------x AMENDED AMENDED ORDER ORDER AMENDED ORDER (Re: (Re: Order Order dated dated 13 1313 August August 2025 2025 ininrelation totothe (Re: Order dated August 2025 inrelation relation tothe the Order Order dated dated 28 28 October October 2025) 2025) Order dated 28 October 2025) Received Received by byby this this Court Court isisis an anan Amended Amended Petition Petition filed filed by byby Received this Court Amended Petition filed Petitioner Petitioner Jeramay Jeramay Gayoso Gayoso Gaspar Gaspar praying praying for forfor the the correction correction ofofof Petitioner Jeramay Gayoso Gaspar praying the correction several several entries entries in in his his first first birth birth certificate. certificate. several entries in his first birth certificate. InInIn view view thereof, thereof, notice notice isisis hereby hereby given given that that this this Amended Amended view thereof, notice hereby given that this Amended Petition Petition isisset for forfor hearing hearing on onon 13 1313 February February 2026 2026 atatat 08:30 08:30 ininin Petition isset set hearing February 2026 08:30 the the morning morning at at which which date date and and time, time, interested interested persons persons may may the morning at which date and time, interested persons may appear appear and and show show cause cause why why the the amended amended petition petition should should not not appear and show cause why the amended petition should not be bebe granted. granted. granted. The The Petitioner Petitioner isisdirected tototo cause cause aacopy ofofof this this Order Order be bebe The Petitioner isdirected directed cause acopy copy this Order published published once once aa week for forfor three three (3) (3)(3) consecutive consecutive weeks weeks ininin published once aweek week three consecutive weeks “Manila “Manila Standard”, Standard”, aanewspaper ofofof general general circulation circulation chosen chosen “Manila Standard”, anewspaper newspaper general circulation chosen ininainaraffle atatthe Petitioner’s Petitioner’s expense. expense. araffle raffle atthe the Petitioner’s expense. The The Petitioner Petitioner isisfurther directed directed tototo serve serve certified certified copies copies ofofof The Petitioner isfurther further directed serve certified copies this this Order, Order, along along with with the the Amended Amended Petition Petition and and its itsits annexes, annexes, this Order, along with the Amended Petition and annexes, upon upon the the following: following: upon the following: aa. a.The The Local Local Civil Civil Registrar Registrar ofofMandaluyong City; City; . The Local Civil Registrar ofMandaluyong Mandaluyong City; b.b.The Philippine Philippine Statistics Statistics Authority; Authority; b.The The Philippine Statistics Authority; c.c.Office ofofthe Solicitor Solicitor General General through through the the Office Office ofofthe City City c.Office Office ofthe the Solicitor General through the Office ofthe the City 11 Prosecutor Prosecutor ofofMandaluyong City; City; Prosecutor ofMandaluyong Mandaluyong City; 1 d.d.Djohanna Djohanna Garcia Garcia Gayoso; Gayoso; and and d. Djohanna Garcia Gayoso; and e.e.Manuelito Lumbania Lumbania Gaspar. Gaspar. e.Manuelito Manuelito Lumbania Gaspar. Compliance Compliance with with the the foregoing foregoing directives directives shall shall be bebe submitted submitted tototo Compliance with the foregoing directives shall submitted the the Court Court atatleast five five (5) (5)(5) days days prior prior totothe scheduled scheduled hearing. hearing. the Court atleast least five days prior tothe the scheduled hearing. SO SO ORDERED. ORDERED. SO ORDERED. City City ofofMandaluyong, 04 0404 December December 2025. 2025. City ofMandaluyong, Mandaluyong, December 2025. (Sgd.) (Sgd.) VERONICA VERONICA B. B.B. TONGIO-IGOT TONGIO-IGOT (Sgd.) VERONICA TONGIO-IGOT Acting Acting Presiding Presiding Judge Judge Acting Presiding Judge Copy Copy furnished: furnished: Copy furnished: Atty. Atty. Ma. Ma. Fatima Fatima E.E.Cruz Cruz Atty. Ma. Fatima E. Cruz Counsel Counsel forforPetitioner Petitioner Counsel for Petitioner Ground Ground Floor, Floor, Cruz Cruz Hi-Rise Hi-Rise Bldg., Bldg., Ground Floor, Cruz Hi-Rise Bldg., Dr., Dr.,E.V E.V Roquero Roquero Avenue, Avenue, Dr., E.V Roquero Avenue, City City OfOfSan San Jose Jose Del DelMonte Monte Bulacan Bulacan City Of San Jose Del Monte Bulacan Email: Email: famecruz@gmail.com famecruz@gmail.com . . Email: famecruz@gmail.com . ACP ACP Gerald Gerald Peter Peter P.P.Corton Corton ACP Gerald Peter P. Corton Office Office ofofthe theCity City Prosecutor Prosecutor Office of the City Prosecutor Mandaluyong Mandaluyong City City Mandaluyong City 2222April 2025, 2025, the theCourt Court received received the theNotice Notice ofofAppearance Appearance filed filed bybythe theOSG OSG and and the theOrder Order 1 April 22 April 2025, the Court received the Notice of Appearance filed by the OSG and the Order 1717July July 2025 2025 (MStandard-Jan. (MStandard-Jan. 16, 16,23 23&23 &30, 30, 2026) 17 July 2025 (MStandard-Jan. 16, & 2026) 30, 2026)

1 1

Manila Manila

Manila Standard Standard Standard TODAY TODAY

of the casino’s online platform by providing technical expertise and operational execution. The collaboration aims to improve player experience and operational efficiency for Hann Live Online, the company’s unified digital gaming platform. The partnership follows Hann Casino’s 2024 acquisition of a Philippine Inland Gam-ing Operators (PIGO) license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. As of March 2025, the digital platform was hosting 103 random number games along-side remote gaming options for live table games and online slot machines. While PhilWeb handles technical support, Hann Casino will remain responsible for governance, regulatory compliance and responsible gaming standards. Both companies described the tie-up as a long-term collaboration designed to support sustainable growth as the regulated digital segment gains traction among licensed op-erators. The move comes as integrated resorts increasingly seek established technology part-ners to scale their online offerings while navigating a more closely monitored regulato-ry environment. Hann Casino Resort, the first fully integrated resort in Central Luzon, spans 11 hec-tares and recently completed a 1.22-hectare expansion of its main casino floor. The physical property features 274 table games and 1,721 gaming machines in addition to over 800 luxury hotel rooms across the Swissôtel Clark and Clark Marriott brands.

JOLLIBEE Foods Corp. said Thursday it sustained solid operating momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, with system-wide sales and same-store sales growth tracking in line with its full-year guidance. In a disclosure to the stock exchange, the homegrown fast-food giant said preliminary indicators show steady fourth-quarter performance across both domestic and interna-tional markets. “Customer demand has been stable across key markets, and network expansion con-tinues to be supported by strong franchise engagement, reinforcing our asset-light growth strategy,” said Richard Shin, Jollibee chief finance officer and Jollibee Interna-tional chief executive. The company’s domestic business continued to drive systemwide sales and same-store sales growth, fueled by improving demand and seasonal year-end spending. These factors helped offset a more challenging macroeconomic environment, the company said. International operations remained resilient during the quarter, led by Vietnam, which is the group’s largest overseas market by store count. System-wide sales and same-store sales growth in Vietnam maintained a high double-digit trajectory in the fourth quarter, outperforming peers. The Tim Ho Wan brand also showed progress, with store operations in Hong Kong sta-bilizing and returning to profitability. Newly opened locations in the United States gen-erated encouraging early customer response. Jollibee said the group remains focused on productivity initiatives, pricing discipline and cost management, with margin-supporting measures gaining traction in its interna-tional operations. However, the company continues to monitor macroeconomic condi-tions, foreign exchange movements and input cost volatility. Jenniffer B. Austria

RFM declares P300m dividend after 14% profit surge, strong 2025 performance CONCEPCION-owned food and beverage firm RFM Corp. has declared a P300 million cash dividend following a strong performance in 2025. RFM said Thursday its board of directors approved the dividend, equivalent to P0.08903 per share, for shareholders of record as of Jan. 29. The dividends are paya-ble on Feb. 24. Based on the company’s preliminary data, it registered an unaudited net income of P1.6 NOTICE NOTICE OF OF DEED DEED NOTICE OF DEED billion in 2025, OF OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL EXTRA-JUDICIAL OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT SETTLEMENT SETTLEMENT up 14 percent OF OF THE THE INTESTATE INTESTATE OF THE INTESTATE from a year ESTATE ESTATE OF OF ANDRE ANDRE J. J. ESTATE OF ANDRE J. MACATANGAY MACATANGAY WITH WITH ago. Revenues MACATANGAY WITH WAIVER WAIVER OF OF RIGHTS RIGHTS WAIVER OF RIGHTS reached P22.2 Notice Notice isisis hereby hereby given given tototo Notice hereby given billion, a 2 the the public public that that the the Deed Deed ofofof the public that the Deed percent increase Extra Extra Judicial Judicial Settlement Settlement Extra Judicial Settlement ofofofthe the Intestate Estate theIntestate IntestateEstate Estate year-over-year. ofofofAndre Andre Macatangay AndreJ.J.J.Macatangay Macatangay R F M With With Waiver Rights WithWaiver WaiverofofofRights Rights has has been executed byby hasbeen beenexecuted executedby president and and and among his heirs, andamong amonghis hisheirs, heirs, namely: namely: Winniefe chief executive namely: Winniefe WinniefeL.L.L. Macatangay, Macatangay, Ma. Ma. Teresa Teresa Macatangay, Ma. Teresa Jose Ma. J.J.J. Macatangay, Macatangay, Abraham Abraham Macatangay, Abraham Daniel Daniel J. J. Macatangay Macatangay and and C o n c e p c i on Daniel J. Macatangay and Lee Lee Brian Brian J.J.J. Macatangay, Macatangay, Lee Brian Macatangay, said the January as asasper per Doc. No. 292; perDoc. Doc.No. No.292; 292; Page Page No. 60; Book No. declaration is PageNo. No.60; 60;Book BookNo. No. VI; VI; Series Series ofofof 2026 2026 ofofof the the VI; Series 2026 the one of four or Notarial Notarial Register/Book Register/Book of of Notarial Register/Book of Atty. Atty. Henson Henson M. M.M. Montalvo, Montalvo, five tranches the Atty. Henson Montalvo, Notary Notary Public forforand and NotaryPublic Publicfor andininin company aims the the City City of of Makati. Makati. the City of Makati. to declare this (MS-JAN. (MS-JAN. 9/16/23, 9/16/23, 2026) 2026) (MS-JAN. 9/16/23, 2026)

year. “We remain optimistic about sustaining sales and income growth in 2026, driven by new products, resilient consumer demand, easing inflation and stable commodity prices,” Concepcion said. He added that the company’s brands and institutional segments, including ice cream, are expected to maintain strong performance. Concepcion noted that RFM plans to in-vest in additional capacity and modernization for its ice cream business over the next few years as its Selecta, Magnum and Cornetto brands continue to develop the market. At the share price of P4.85 as of Jan. 14, this dividend represents a yield of approxi-mately 1.84 percent. Total dividends declared by RFM in 2025 amounted to P1.5 billion, or P0.44517 per share, representing a dividend yield of 10.3 percent. Concepcion previously expressed optimism that a low-inflation environment will con-tinue to support household consumption in 2026. He said the easing cost of imported inputs could help manufacturers better manage currency-related risks amid a weaker peso. Jenniffer B. Austria CYAN CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK CYANMAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOWBLACK BLACK

CYAN CYAN CYA

BUSINESS

B3 FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com

BCDA extends John Hay Golf contract to 2026 T By Othel V. Campos

HE Bases Conversion and Development Authority has approved a one-year extension of the interim operations and maintenance contract for Golfplus Management Inc. and Duck Sports and Music Productions Inc. to keep John Hay Golf open to the public.

The extension ensures uninterrupted operations of the golf course in Camp John Hay through 2026. The BCDA said the move allows continued access for golfers, residents and visitors while long-term arrangements for sustainable management are finalized. BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said the stewardship of the his-toric course remains a priority, with a focus on preserving its character while ensuring responsible management. “Extending the interim management ensures uninterrupted operations while safe-guarding public access and maintaining the quality of services expected by golfers and visitors,” Bingcang said. Under the extended engagement, the interim management will organize the BCDA Chairman’s Cup in 2026 and continue implementing facility and amenity improve-ments. It will

also continue hosting major events and tournaments to reinforce the course’s position as a premier recreation destination in Baguio City. John Hay Golf will remain open to the public, with various playing rights and access options available, subject to green fees. Recently, John Hay Golf and the Baguio Country Club hosted the Fil-Am Invitational Golf Tournament, one of the longest-running amateur golf competitions in the Asia-Pacific region. The facility is also supporting the future of Philippine golf through a partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission and the National Golf Association of the Philip-pines. The program grants free access to children aged 18 and younger to encourage early talent development. The BCDA said the contract extension reflects its commitment to keeping the course an inclusive and wellmanaged public asset.

TAX EDUCATION. Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Charlie Mendoza meets with TikTok executives to launch digital tax education campaigns and creator-led content for the 2026 National Tax Campaign.

DOTr, DICT launch free Wi-Fi for EDSA Busway commuters By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation and the Department of Information and Communica-tions Technology on Thursday rolled out the Free Wi-Fi for All program across EDSA Busway stations to enhance connectivity for daily commuters. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mandate to bridge the digital divide through free public internet access. “After our success with the MRT, we are bringing connectivity to the EDSA Carousel,” Aguda said. “As of today, passengers at 17 bus stations will have access to fast and free internet.” The DICT’s program provides complimentary internet access in key public areas, in-cluding government offices, schools, hospitals and transport terminals. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez emphasized the government’s commitment to delivering a modern

DA tests commercial viability of Australian redclaw crayfish THE Department of Agriculture is testing the commercial viability of Australian redclaw crayfish in the country’s rice heartland as part of a push to develop higher-value aquaculture options for farmers. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Thursday led the stocking of 14,000 redclaw craylings, launching an on-farm verification trial to determine whether the spe-cies can be profitably raised in Philippine freshwater ponds. “We want our farmers to grow profits, not just crops,” Tiu Laurel said, noting that red-claw crayfish culture, if supported by strict biosecurity and good aquaculture practices, has the potential to sustainably transform local fish farming. The project is being implemented by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in partnership with the private sector. The initiative follows the issuance of BFAR Admin-istrative Circular No. 001, series of 2025, which established the country’s first national guidelines for culturing the species. The rules require broodstock and craylings to be sourced only from certified local hatcheries or BFAR facilities to manage biosecurity risks. BFAR is supplying the cray-lings from its prototype hatchery at the National Freshwater Fisheries Technology Cen-ter. The center maintains a core breeding stock and can produce up to 5,000 craylings per cycle, with three to five production cycles annually. In Nueva Ecija, the trial will run for four to five months across four ponds, testing two stocking densities of 10 and 15 crayfish per square meter. BFAR will assess survival rates, growth, feed efficiency and economic returns to determine commercial viability. If results are favorable, BFAR plans to roll out full technology demonstrations and pro-duction protocols to support farmer training and wider adoption in suitable inland are-as. Officials said the controlled rollout is part of a cautious strategy to evaluate biosecu-rity safeguards, sustainability and commercial viability ahead of any large-scale expan-sion. Othel V. Campos

and seamless commuting experience. “In December, we implemented cashless payment options for the MRT-3,” Lopez said. “Today, we are building on that momentum by providing free Wi-Fi at 17 key stations along the EDSA Busway.” The EDSA Busway served a total of 66,669,287 passengers in 2025, a significant in-crease from the 63,022,953 passengers recorded in 2024. Recent data shows a record monthly ridership of 6,530,415 passengers in December 2025, with a single-day peak of 321,186 recorded in April 2025. To date, the EDSA Busway project has served a cumulative total of 341,307,843 pas-sengers since it began in June 2020. The project is a flagship initiative of the DOTr, supported by the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. It aims to enhance mass transit efficiency, safety and accessibility along EDSA, the main thor-oughfare of Metro Manila.

COMFORTABLE TRAVEL.

The Department of Transportation and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines complete the installation of three new high-capacity chillers in the arrival area of the Davao International Airport, enabling travelers to enjoy a more comfortable arrival experience. The upgrade comes after DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez ordered an immediate fix following his inspection last October.

Camiguin named among NY Times’ ‘52 Places to Go’ THE Department of Tourism welcomed Camiguin’s inclusion in The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2026,” with the island province standing as the only Philippine destination on the list. The publication recognized the island for its mountains, beach-es and rich marine biodiversity. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the international recognition highlights both Camiguin’s natural assets and the sustained efforts of its local government, com-munities and tourism workers. “This recognition by The New York Times affirms Camiguin’s extraordinary natural beauty and the tireless work of its people, tourism frontliners, and the committed lead-ership of Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo and the provincial government in positioning the island as a globally competitive destination,” Frasco said. Frasco added that the DOT continues to work closely with the provincial government and DOT Region X to ensure tourism growth remains sustainable and inclusive across the island. The recognition coincides with the rollout of the “Isle Visit Camiguin 2026” campaign and ongoing infrastructure upgrades designed to improve accessibility. In its feature, The New York Times cited the near completion of the island’s 40-mile cir-cumferential road expansion and the upcoming opening of its first beachfront board-walk in Mambajao. Camiguin is also reinforcing its status as a sports tourism destination, with a new triath-lon scheduled in May, alongside various swimming and running events. To strengthen dive tourism, the DOT has promoted the island’s marine offerings through the Cami-guin Dive Festival, held three times from 2023 to 2025 following the mapping of local dive sites in 2018. The department has also endorsed the construction of a multi-place hyperbaric cham-ber in partnership with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority to en-hance diver safety. Othel V. Campos

BCDA grants Supreme Court land rights for new Hall of Justice at John Hay THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority has granted the Supreme Court usufructuary rights for the construction and development of a Hall of Justice at Camp John Hay. BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said the grant reflects the agency’s support for an accessible, responsive and efficient justice system to serve Baguio City and nearby municipalities. Signed Thursday, the agreement formalizes a shared vision between the BCDA and the Supreme Court to improve public access to judicial services in Northern Luzon. The Camp John Hay initiative builds on the BCDA’s push to align land use with long-term social benefits through partnerships with national agencies and local governments. Earlier, the BCDA partnered with the Taguig city government and the Department of Education–Taguig and Pateros to develop new schools and community facilities in Pamayanang Diego Silang. The Dec. 18, 2025,

agreement granted usufruct over a 1,110-square-meter parcel of land for facilities intended to serve students and sur-rounding communities. Bingcang said the Taguig project underscores the BCDA’s parallel focus on human capital development alongside infrastructure investment, citing earlier initiatives such as the National Academy of Sports in New Clark City. The site, currently managed by the Senator Renato “Compañero” Cayetano Memorial Science and Technology High School, was initially planned as a sports complex but will now be repurposed into accessible school and community spaces. Taguig Mayor Laarni Cayetano said the partnership advances the city’s education agenda while ensuring public land delivers direct social benefits. Both projects reflect the BCDA’s continuing strategy to leverage government land assets for justice, educa-tion and inclusive urban development. Othel V. Campos

LEARNING PROGRAM. The Board of Investments and Accenture Philippines teams with the student delegates from Pasig Science High School. The BOI successfully launched its Student-Industry Learning Immersion Program (SILIP) on Dec. 2, 2025, marking a major step toward preparing the next generation of Filipino talent for the country’s evolving industrial landscape.

BUSINESS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

November remittances up 3.6% By Thony Rose Lesaca

ONEY sent home by overseas Filipinos (OFs) grew 3.61 percent year-on-year to $2.91 billion in November 2025, a six-month low since remittances hit its lowest level for the year at $2.66 billion in May. Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed the figure was higher than $2.81 billion recorded a year earlier, but it was lower than $3.17 billion in October. Cash remittances from land-based OFs climbed 3.61 percent from $2.22

billion a year ago to $2.30 billion in November. Meanwhile, remittances from sea-based OFs jumped 3.60 percent from $585.51 million to $606.59 million. These brought the eleven-month remittances to $32.11 billion, up 3.21

percent from $31.11 billion in the same period last year. The BSP said most remittances came from the United States, followed by Singapore and Saudi Arabia. Personal remittances, which include cash sent through banks and informal channels as well as in-kind remittances, also grew 3.65 percent to $3.24 billion in November. Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas said the month-on-month dip in November remittances was just a “timing story”, following higher remittance inflows

in October. “A lot of the holiday money was already sent in October, which is why we saw that month heavy with remittances — partly due to pre‑holiday transfers and even typhoon‑related aid being front‑loaded,” said Ravelas. “So by November, the flow naturally softens before the big December surge,” said Ravelas. He said the November figure is not a red flag, but rather a “usual seasonal lull” as OFWs prepared for the holidays and provided aid for typhoonrelated expenses.

PH adopts first blockchain-based national budget THE Philippines has become the first country to transition its entire national budget to a blockchain system, recording every peso of taxpayer money in a permanent digital ledger starting with the 2026 General Appropriations Act. The Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) announced the initiative, known as the Digital Bayanihan Chain, on Thursday. The system digitizes the full budget cycle including congressional approval, disbursement, expenditure and reporting to create a tamper-proof record of government spending. DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the blockchain-powered budget acts as a digital guarantee of integrity that protects official copies from manipulation. Aguda said the system ensures long-term traceability of funds and makes transparency a permanent fixture of Philippine governance. The shift to a decentralized ledger aims to reduce corruption by making fraudulent alterations to financial records nearly impossible. Under the new system, citizens and media watchdogs can trace the flow of public funds from the initial approval stage down to final spending. These digital records are designed to remain intact across different political administrations to provide a continuous evidence trail. Government officials expect the move to strengthen public trust by providing a verifiable “digital seal of truth” for 100 percent of the national budget. The move reinforces the government’s commitment to its “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) campaign, which prioritizes inclusive and accountable digital governance. While other nations have explored blockchain for specific sectors like land titles or supply chains, the Philippines is the first to apply the technology to a comprehensive national budget, the DICT said. Charles Dantes

JAPANESE MINISTER. The Philippine economic team meets with Japan Minister of Foreign Affairs Toshimitsu Motegi (third from left) and Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya on Jan. 14, 2026 at the Japan Ambassador’s Residence in Makati City to reaffirm the strong and enduring partnership between the Philippines and the Japan. During the meeting, Department of Economy, Planning and Development Arsenio Balisacan and Motegi underscored shared commitment to advancing development cooperation and the effective implementation of official development assistance (ODA)-funded projects.

Cebu Pacific flies 26.9m passengers By Darwin G. Amojelar CEBU Pacific passenger traffic rose 10 percent in 2025 despite supply chain disruptions and global geopolitical tensions, the Gokongweiled airline said Thursday. The carrier flew 26.9 million domestic and international passengers last year, up from 24.5 million passengers in 2024. Domestic traffic grew 8.1 percent to 20 million, while international passenger numbers climbed 14 percent to 6.9 million. The airline said its overall seat capacity increased 10 percent to 32 million, but its seat load factor (SLF) edged down to 84 percent from 84.4 percent in 2024. It said that in December, the airline carried more than 2.7 million passengers, marking a 5.1-percent increase from the same month in 2024 and representing its highest-ever monthly total. Monthly seat capacity grew 6.9 percent, while the overall SLF decreased to 83.8 percent from 85.2 percent a year earlier. Domestic passengers in December increased 4.5 percent year-on-year on 4.5 percent higher seat capacity, resulting in a domestic SLF of 85.5 percent. International passenger traffic for the month rose 6.6 percent, but a 13.6 percent jump in seat capacity brought the international SLF down by 5.2 percentage points to 79.4 percent. Cebu Pacific chief executive Mike Szucs said the company concluded the year on a strong note despite fleet reliability issues and wider industry challenges. Szucs said the record numbers underscore the strength of the lowcost model and operational agility. The airline expects to maintain similar growth levels in 2026, supported by the delivery of seven new aircraft.

Cebu delivers world’s first methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier

The world’s first methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier has commenced its maiden voyage to East Asia following its successful delivery from a shipyard in Cebu, marking a technological breakthrough for the Philippine maritime industry. The vessel, named M/V Brave Pioneer, was constructed by Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu) Inc. at the West Cebu Estate. The 81,200-metric-ton dual-fuel carrier completed all quality and safety certifications before deployment, signaling the country’s ability to produce high-value vessels that meet stringent international environmental standards. The ship is engineered to significantly reduce the environmental impact of commercial shipping. Compared to conventional vessels, it reduces carbon dioxide emissions by

Basic Energy awarded 43-MW solar project

BASIC Energy Corp. said Thursday it received a certificate of award for its 43.410-megawatt solar power project in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. The award follows the company’s successful bid in the fourth round of the Green Energy Auction Program (GEA-4) conducted by the Department of Energy. Under the program, the company is entitled to deliver its offered capacity of 43.410 megawatts of alternating current, provided it complies with auction terms and executes relevant project agreements. Basic Energy said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it advancing the completion of remaining requirements and necessary agreements to prepare for the development and delivery of the project to the Visayas Grid. The project is scheduled to reach its commercial operations date on or before Dec. 31, 2026. The DOE granted the company a certificate of authority in March 2025 to act as the exclusive solar energy developer for the Cadiz 1 site. The certificate allows Basic Energy to secure permits and tenure instruments for the project and initiate procurement activities. The project will operate under a 25-year solar energy operating contract. Alena Mae S. Flores

Veem, Coins.ph expand partnership

GLOBAL payments provider Veem and Coins.ph announced an expansion of their partnership Thursday to streamline cross-border transactions from the United States and Canada to the Philippines. The collaboration introduces a new channel for corporate payouts and contractor payments that utilizes digital settlement methods to reduce costs and processing times. The expanded model allows Veem to use Coins.ph as a local payout provider to bypass traditional international wire fees and slow bank settlement cycles. By maintaining liquidity in advance, Veem enables Coins.ph to manage local compliance checks and convert dollars into Philippine pesos for disbursement through domestic bank networks and digital wallets. The companies are also exploring the use of stablecoins like USDC to further accelerate settlement.

approximately 10 percent, nitrogen oxides by up to 80 percent and sulfur oxides by as much as 99 percent. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. formally named and revealed the vessel during a visit to the 540-hectare West Cebu Estate. The president was joined by Philippine Economic Zone Authority director-general Tereso Panga, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, Aboitiz Group president and chief executive Sabin Aboitiz and Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu) Inc. president Yasuaki Seto. The delivery represents the 381st vessel completed by Tsuneishi’s Philippine operations. Industry leaders noted that the project highlights the technical discipline of Filipino engineering and the country’s position as the fourth-largest shipbuilder in the world by gross tonnage.

IN BRIEF The service targets the growing sector of Filipino remote workers, freelancers and virtual assistants who often face high foreign exchange rates and complex payment processes. Under the new system, North American businesses can manage mass payouts and track reconciliation through a single platform while recipients choose their preferred local delivery method. Coins.ph chief executive Wei Zhou said the partnership addresses long-standing friction in the payment corridor between North America and Southeast Asia.

PFA sets Franchise Asia PH for April

THE Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) is scheduled to host Franchise Asia Philippines 2026 in April at the SMX Convention Center Manila to promote regional brand expansion. With the theme “Franchising Together: ASEAN to the World,” the 4-in-1 event aims to serve as a gateway for local brands to scale internationally and for global concepts to enter the Southeast Asian market. PFA chairman emeritus Samie Lim said the event would gather industry leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs to foster collaboration and showcase the resilience of franchising as the world looks toward the region for growth. The week-long event begins with the Certified Franchise Executive program on April 20 and 21 at the AIM Conference Center in Makati City. The professional development track, administered by the US-based International Franchise Association, offers a miniMBA curriculum focused on franchise operations, management, and industry best practices. The International Franchise Conference will take place at the SMX Convention Center on April 23. The International Franchise Expo will follow from April 24 to 26 at the SMX Convention Center, featuring hundreds of domestic and international brands across the food, beverage, retail and service sectors. The expo serves as a hub for seasoned investors looking to diversify portfolios and aspiring business owners seeking new opportunities.

M/V Brave Pioneer, the world’s first methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier built at West Cebu Estate begins East Asia voyage after completes certification.

Allianz PNB Life hit 2025 targets, eyes double-digit growth in 2026 By Thony Rose Lesaca MAJOR insurer Allianz PNB Life remained bullish about its performance for 2025 as company executives said they have achieved their double-digit growth targets last year despite market headwinds. “Aside from double-digit growth, we always strive to outperform the market. If [the] market grows by X percent, we always outperform that. So, what you observe in the second half, it might be flattish compared to the industry perspective, flattish compared to the first half…But we have attained what we have sought out to attain in the second half, as well as in the first half,” said Allianz PNB Life chief financial officer Lukas Cacayan. The insurer has yet to disclose the exact figures pending the official release of their 2025 annual report to the public. Available data, on the other hand, showed that Allianz PNB Life posted a double-digit increase in

its gross premium income and net income in the first half of 2025. Both the insurer’s total premium income and net income rose by 14 percent to P19 billion and P18.9 billion, respectively. Allianz PNB Life said they are also eyeing double-digit growth for 2026. “We always aspire for double-digit growth this year and in the coming years,” Cacayan told reporters at a media conference on Thursday. He said while there are risks to growth outlook, the company remains equipped with strategies in managing such headwinds. “There will always be risks, definitely…We are best equipped globally in terms of not just value creation, but also capital enterprise risk management and governance strategies,” said Cacayan. “[This] would mean that we are the best equipped in the industry in the Philippines to create more value and protect more Filipino families and also deliver and exceed on our promises,” he said.

TRANSPORT

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

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

Zamboanga seaport project bidding fails

HE bidding process for the proposed P14.82-billion San Ramon Newport Project (SRNP) in Zamboanga City was declared a failure after no prospective bidders submitted pre-qualification documents (PQDs). The Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (ZCSEZA) Pre-Qualification, Bids and Awards Committee, in a notice, declared a “failure of bidding“ on Jan. 7, 2026 for the San Ramon Newport Project as “no PQDs were received from any prospective bidders”. The deadline for pre-qualification had already been postponed several times from its original October 2025 schedule. The ZCSEZA first opened the call for bidders in July 2025, seeking a partner to design, finance, construct, operate and maintain the SRNP. The project covers a comprehensive scope, including civil and building works, utilities, cargo handling equipment, and terminal operating systems, alongside financing and

related costs. Beyond addressing capacity constraints at the current Zamboanga Base Port (ZBP), the SRNP is designed to attract new locators to the ZAMBOECOZONE. By streamlining logistics, the project is expected to significantly reduce transport costs for both international and domestic cargo across the Zamboanga Peninsula (Region 9). The project’s primary competitor is the Zamboanga Base Port (ZBP), a multi-facility hub operating 19 berths, 12 of which are privately owned. While the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) operates its largest dock—capable of accommodating up to 20 vessels—the ZBP serves a diverse range of traffic, including

general cargo, breakbulk, containers, and fishing. It is the country’s central hub for sardine exports to the US, Europe and the Middle East, supported by 25 shipping lines and four local shipyards. Despite handling a massive passenger throughput of over 2.5 million in 2023, the ZBP faces

significant challenges. It suffers from chronic congestion and is physically constrained by surrounding urban development, leading to plans for its eventual relocation. This creates a strategic opening for the San Ramon Newport Project to capture both existing traffic and future growth that the current port can no longer sustain. Darwin G. Amojelar

2GO Forwarding strengthens PH logistics 2GO, the Philippines’ leading multimodal logistics provider, continues to solidify its role as a key partner for international brands and homegrown organizations. Through its freight forwarding arm, 2GO Forwarding, the group leverages a network spanning 33,000 barangays to provide end-to-end sea, land, and air solutions for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to events. For restaurant groups with extensive operations across the Visayas and Mindanao, efficient inter-island movement is essential to maintaining stock levels, product freshness, and store stability. Bigby’s Quality Food Corp., a homegrown restaurant group with 26 branches under brands such as Bigby’s Café & Restaurant, Boy Zugba, and The Tuna Bar, has seen significant improvements in its logistics efficiency with 2GO handling its island-to-island deliveries. Pharmaceutical distribution requires efficiency, accuracy, and consistent reliability. For Zuellig Pharma Corporation, the Philippines’ leading distributor of medicines and healthcare products, 2GO Forwarding has become a trusted partner in ensuring life-saving medicines and medical products reach their destinations safely and on time. The partnership has proven vital during peak demand periods, where uninterrupted delivery means uninterrupted access to healthcare.

Beyond healthcare, 2GO Forwarding also supports the movement of people and equipment for some of the Philippines’ most anticipated international sporting events. As the official logistics partner of IRONMAN Philippines, 2GO provides transport and forwarding solutions that ensure sporting gear, race materials, and participants arrive on time and in full. This capability has made 2GO an integral part of the country’s growing sports tourism industry. 2GO Forwarding’s flexible service offerings have also supported

businesses in the agriculture, food manufacturing, and MSME sectors. For the Strawberry-Guyabano Farm and Delibites Concepts Corporation in South Cotabato, 2GO’s transport solutions have helped streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance. 2GO Forwarding’s track record across industries highlights its ability to adapt to the unique requirements of every client, from healthcare to sports. The business unit remains focused on delivering solutions that enable organizations to make a meaningful impact on the

communities they serve. “We see our role as more than transporting goods—we help businesses expand, communities thrive, and vital services reach the people who need them most,” Faye Alonzo, Business Unit head of 2GO Forwarding said. “From healthcare and food to sports and MSMEs, we move what matters, ensuring every shipment travels safely and seamlessly across cities and regions. This commitment to enabling growth and enriching lives is at the heart of what we deliver to every partner we serve,” she added.

AirAsia PH boosts domestic tourism with promo fare AIRASIA Philippines is strategically driving domestic tourism growth as the country enters its peak festival season. With Cebu, Iloilo, and Kalibo celebrating Sinulog, Dinagyang, and Ati-atihan, the airline has launched a major promotional campaign to lower the barrier to travel. The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline is launching the AirAsia Fiesta Sale, offering one-way base fares from just P115 to select domestic destinations until January 25, 2026, with travel period from January 12 to November 30, 2026, making it easier than ever for Filipinos to join the country’s most anticipated cultural celebrations or plan their future travels. “AirAsia Philippines is proud to support the growth of domestic tourism, especially during the country’s iconic fiestas. These events not only showcase our rich culture but also stimulate local economies and create unforgettable experiences for our guests and we are glad to be part of making those moments truly memorable,” Capt. Suresh Bangah , president and chief executive of AirAsia Philippines said. In Cebu, AirAsia is further strengthening connectivity with the launch of two new international routes and three additional domestic routes. With this expansion, AirAsia Philippines hopes to support the Cebu provincial government’s Balik Cebu Program, which aims to boost visitor arrivals. According to DOT Region 7, tourist arrivals are projected to reach 400,000 this January. AirAsia Philippines is set to power up Sinulog in Cebu with the “To the Philippines with Love” Concert for a Cause.

Airbus launches demonstrator to test global 5G connectivity in orbit Vietjet slashes deluxe fares by 30% for Manila–Ho Chi Minh City VIETJET is kicking off the New Year with a one-day-only promotion, offering Filipino travelers 30 percent off Deluxe fares across its entire flight network on January 15, 2026. The promo covers direct daily flights on the newly launched Manila–Ho Chi Minh City route while flyers can also book Vietnam’s domestic flights at discounted fares. The deal applies to flights operated between February 1 and December 31, 2026, giving international travelers ample time to plan their travel this year to Vietnam and beyond. Vietjet’s Deluxe fare is designed for added comfort and flexibility, and includes 20kg of checked baggage, free seat selection, free itinerary changes, and other value-added benefits . Vietnam is a top destination for Filipino travelers, with arrivals from the Philippines rising 81.3 percent according to Vietnam National Authority of Tourism. From Ho Chi Minh City’s electric street life to its dynamic food scene and buzzing nightlife, Vietnam’s southern metropolis offers an irresistible blend of world-class cuisine, rich history, modern energy, and warm, genuine hospitality. Filipino travelers can also visit the capital of Hanoi, gateway to misty mountain splendors of Ha Giang, Sa Pa or visit Vietnam’s heritage sites in Hue, Hoi An thanks to Vietjet’s extensive and convenient flights in Vietnam. The country weaves an irresistible tapestry of world-class cuisine, rich traditions, stunning nature, and genuine hospitality.

AIRBUS UpNext, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Airbus, has launched a new demonstrator called Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN (Space Radio Access Network). Its mission is to enable standardized global connectivity by exploring advanced 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) capabilities. Airbus is committed to providing customers with a secure and cost-effective way to stay connected in an increasingly digitized world. This

demonstrator aims to explore the 5G NTN, a versatile connectivity technology compatible with all types of business applications. Whether for commercial, defense or governmental use, it will confirm the feasibility of providing universal connectivity that is standardized, interoperable, and globally available. Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN will leverage Airbus’ software-defined satellite1 capabilities to manage and optimize 5G

signals in orbit. By processing data directly in space rather than simply relaying it, the demonstrator2 will prove that we can reduce latency, maximize data throughput, and enable more efficient network management and routing, opening the door to user to user direct connectivity. “The successful exploration of this technology will unlock advantages across various sectors. For commercial aviation, it holds the potential to boost operational efficiency and simplify interoperability, all w h i l e

enabling enhanced passenger experiences,” Michael Augello, chief executive of Airbus UpNext said. Similarly, for the military and government sectors, it aims to provide more resilient and secure communications, supporting improved situational awareness and accelerating real-time decisionmaking,” he added. To bring this initiative to life, Airbus has assembled a consortium of partners,

including Aalyria, AccelerComm, CesiumAstro, Deutsche Telekom, Eutelsat, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Keysight Technologies, Onati, Radisys, Sener and ST Engineering iDirect. Developed as part of Air!5G, a project supported by the French government through the France 2030 investment plan under the Future Networks strategy, this demonstrator is expected to show its first results by 2028. It will be key to preparing the next generation of wireless technology (6G) and eventually driving down the cost of orbital data transmission.

SHOWBIZ

C2 FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

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

Cebu gets star-studded Sinulog Festival weekend celebration

THE festive spirit of this year’s Sinulog Festival is set to reach new heights as GMA Regional TV brings some of the country’s top stars to Cebu for a weekend of music, fun, and celebration. The festivities kick off today, Jan. 16, with a Kapuso Mall Show at Ayala Central Bloc at 4:00 p.m. Kapusong Cebuanos can expect an afternoon of high energy as Allen Ansay of TiktoClock, Althea Ablan, Larkin Castor, and Shan Vesagas take the stage. The fun continues tomorrow, Jan. 17, at The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu, also at 4:00 p.m. Stars from Hating Kapatid—Vince Maristela, Cheska Fausto, and Cassy Legaspi—will headline the mall show. Joining them are Martin del Rosario, Mike Tan, and Beauty Gonzalez

from the upcoming GMA Afternoon Prime series House of Lies, set to air on Jan. 19. The weekend wraps up on Sunday, Jan. 18, at SM City Cebu with another Kapuso Mall Show at 4 p.m. Kim de Leon, David Licauco, and Jillian Ward of the upcoming GMA Prime series Never Say Die, airing this February, will entertain the crowd with their charm and energy. Adding to the excitement, GMA Regional TV and Synergy will provide live coverage of the Sinulog Grand Parade starting at 1:00 p.m., giving fans a front-row seat to one of the country’s most celebrated cultural events. ‘Never Say Die’ stars Jillian Ward (left) and David Licauco

Ice Seguerra looks back

on choice to live authentically

CE Seguerra is coming home—literally. The OPM icon will perform Being Ice Live at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao on Feb. 27, revisiting the place where his childhood films premiered, and the nation first saw him as a child star. The concert, named after Seguerra’s memoir-like journey, opens with “Pagdating ng Panahon,” a song the OPM icon considers as one of the most defining songs in his career. For decades, the song closed his

Ice reflects on choosing authenticity over convenience, calling it the defining decision of his life and career

shows. This time, he says, it marks a beginning rather than a climax. “For a long time, that song was the ending people wanted. Now I want it to be the beginning, and then let the rest of my story walk out on its own,” Ice said.

Seguerra describes Being Ice: Live! as a celebration of authenticity, the kind of transparency he has been advocating since coming out as a trans man “I think one of the lessons I’m most proud of is that even in this industry, you can choose to live authentically. It really is a choice. And sometimes, choosing yourself doesn’t always guarantee the easiest or most positive outcome,” the singer-songwriter said. “There was a time when I felt that if I hadn’t come out, I might have been a bigger star. Maybe. I don’t know. I could be wrong. But I also knew I couldn’t lie to myself. I could feel it in my spirit. I knew it would affect me deeply if I did,” Seguerra went on. Seguerra, now 42, appreciates being able to express who he truly is. He feels thankful for this freedom because it lets him live his life on his own terms, without carrying regrets or worrying about the opportunities or possibilities he might have missed if

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

he had made different choices. “What I’m grateful for is that I’ve been able to share my songs, my voice, and myself—without hiding. I don’t have to hide who I am. I don’t have to hide who I love. I can move between being Ice the person and Ice the artist without pretending. For me, that’s what ‘Being Ice’ means. What you see is what you get.” The concert opens with Pagdating ng Panahon. The song has defined his career for 25 years. “For a long time, that song was the ending people wanted. Now I want it to be the beginning, and then let the rest of my story walk out on its own,” Seguerra said. The performance traces his journey beyond childhood stardom. He sang in small rooms. He performed in show bands.

He kept working with passion while continuing to grow as an artist. “This isn’t a comeback,” he said. “It’s a return to the place that saw everything, including the parts people didn’t clap for.” The concert coincides with Valentine’s month. Audiences will experience stories of love, endurance, and community. Seguerra’s focus is on connection and shared experience. “And that’s the reason why I love performing in intimate venues now. Maybe you’ll see me in bigger venues for milestone celebrations. But for now, I enjoy performing in spaces that allow me to interact with my audience, because that’s where I get my energy from. The instant connection fuels me during performances,” Seguerra said.

OPM singer Ice Seguerra returns to New Frontier Theater with concert ‘Being Ice: Live!’

‘Bridgerton’ premieres in Paris promising ‘Cinderella with a twist’

The fourth season of ‘Bridgerton’ centers around Luke Thompson’s (left) character and Yerin Ha’s Sophie Baek, a servant, highlighting a class struggle and forbidden love

THE promoters of Bridgerton, the most English of TV series, chose Paris Wednesday to launch the fourth series of the hit show whose key plotline promises to be “Cinderella with a twist”, according to star Yerin Ha. Several hundred fans thronged outside the Palais Brongniart in central Paris, whose steps and columns had been decorated in the show’s colors, with a walkway decorated like an English garden for the stars. The latest installment revolves around the powerful Bridgerton family’s second son, the rakish Benedict (Luke Thompson), who falls under the spell of the mysterious Sophie Baek, unaware that, like Cinderella, she is a servant. “I’d say it’s a bit of Cinderella with a twist, and it’s not quite Cinderella. It’s a class struggle, forbidden love story,” Australian-Korean actress

Yerin Ha, who plays Baek, told AFP. Releasing on Netflix on Jan. 29, the season tackles numerous themes through its intrigues, including relations between nobles and servants, rape, disability, and the sex lives of women after menopause. Baek’s cruel mistress—and stepmother—is played by Katie Leung, known for her role as Cho Chang in the Harry Potter saga. According to Netflix, Bridgerton has consistently ranked among the platform’s most popular content since its launch in 2020, holding spots in the global Top 10 for several weeks at a time. It is adapted from the novels about 19thcentury London high society by American writer Julia Quinn. Fans can look forward to seasons five and six, which have already been confirmed. AFP

SHOWBIZ

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

The musical’s gala night on January 29 at 8 PM will feature Muhlach, Estrada, Cruz, Moses, and Rodriguez on stage. Cast appearances are subject to change, and alternates may perform in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Produced by Newport World Resorts with Philippine STAR and VIVA Communications and staged by PETA plus, Bagets The Musical is also presented in cooperation with Sun Life Philippines. The show runs from Jan. 23 to March 2026. Tickets are available online at https://tickets.newportworldresorts. com/products/bagets-the-musical and through all Ticketworld and Ticket2Me outlets. Prices are P4,000 (SVIP), P3,500 (VIP), P3,000 (Gold), P2,000 (Silver), and P1,000 (Bronze). For inquiries, contact Customer Care at 7908-8888.

Who’s on stage?

Bagets The Musical officially opens its run at Newport Performing Arts Theater, bringing the iconic barkada story to the stage for a new generation of theatergoers

The full cast of ‘Bagets: The Musical’

‘Bagets The Musical’ reveals opening week line-up ANS of Bagets can now plan which barkada member they want to see live as Bagets The Musical opens at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Newport World Resorts has released the full cast schedule for shows running from Jan. 23 to Feb. 1, giving audiences a clear view of who will appear on stage.

Andres Muhlach stars as Adie, Ethan David plays Arnel, Milo Cruz is Tonton, Jeff Moses takes on Topee, and Tomas Rodriguez appears as Gilbert in performances on Jan. 23 at 8:00 p.m., Jan. 25 at 3:00 p.m., and Jan. 31 at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. This lineup brings together five performers whose portrayals highlight the youthful energy and camaraderie at the heart of the story.

A second ensemble features Mico Chua as Adie, KD Estrada as Arnel, Migo Valid as Tonton, Sam Shoaf as Topee, and Noel Comia Jr. as Gilbert in shows on Jan. 24 at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., Jan. 30 at 8:00 p.m., and Feb. 1 at 3:00 p.m. Audiences will get another chance to experience the beloved barkada through this different group of performers.

Mother from Laguna takes home PH’s first world title of the year C H E R R Y A N N Alix Solomon of the Philippines was crowned WRS Mrs. Queen of the Year 2026 during the grand finals held at the Vakhtang Saralidze Concert Hall in Tbilisi, Georgia, on Sunday. The pageant was held in conjunction with the 8th World Rising Stars (WRS) Beauty, Talent and Fashion Awards, which attracted more than twenty countries from around the world. The 36-year-old mother of three from Siniloan, Laguna, also bagged the Grand Prix Talent, Empowered Woman, and Best in Interview awards. A licensed midwife and entrepreneur, Solomon worked as a hotel

Cherryann Alix Solomon holds multiple special awards after being crowned WRS Mrs. Queen of the Year 2026 in Tbilisi, Georgia, marking the Philippines’ first world pageant win of the year

Pageant Concept Eton Concepcion

lounge singer in Hong Kong and founded the Cherry Blossoms Aesthetic and Spa. Solomon, who previously won Mrs. Planet Asia 2025 at Mrs. Planet 2025 held in Turkey, was accompanied in Georgia by Mrs. Philippines International Organization president and national director Maan C. Aris. “We did it again, Philippines. I’m still on cloud nine after receiving multiple awards at the WRS Queen of the Year 2026,” said Solomon in a message after her win. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for this incredible honor. I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who believed in me and has supported me every step of the way. Your love and encouragement meant the world to me. I’m happy to share with all of you my victory,” said Solomon in a message after her win,” she added. *** PH bet finishes first runner-up in Mister Friendship International 2025 THE Philippines’ Kurt Mikhael Aguilar placed as first runner-up in the Mister Friendship International 2025

Toni Gonzaga shrugs off rumors linking her marriage to ‘power couple’ blind item By Jasper Valdez

Kurt Mikhael Aguilar represents the Philippines at Mister Friendship International 2025 in Bangkok, where he finishes first runner-up and earns several special awards

pageant held recently in Bangkok, Thailand, which was won by Ki Niwat Naknuan of the host country. Anthony Arroyo Rivera of Jamaica and Jakub Madl of the Czech Republic were named second and third runners-up, respectively, while Benson Ku of Taiwan was fourth runner-up. Aguilar, who was Mister Lipa Tourism 2025 before winning Mister Friendship International Philippines 2025, is a psychology cum laude graduate of Ateneo de Manila University and a former team captain of the Ateneo Men’s Volleyball Team. He also won several special awards, including Mister Friendship Fitness, Mister Friendship Hot Icon, and Mister Friendship Voice finalist. Beyond physical looks, the Mister Friendship International pageant centers on promoting brotherhood, peace, and cultural understanding, in line with the United Nations’ International Day of Friendship.

TONI Gonzaga has brushed aside online speculation dragging her marriage into a circulating blind item about a troubled celebrity couple. The issue came up during Gonzaga’s recent live-selling session, where viewers began asking if she and husband Paul Soriano were connected to a widely shared rumor alleging infidelity within a socalled “power couple.” The blind item gained traction after Marian Rivera publicly denied being involved, prompting netizens to speculate about other celebrity marriages. Toni addressed the comments directly and did not mince words. “Don’t waste time sa mga nonsense, okay? It’s a waste,” she said on the livestream.

She followed it up with a pointed analogy, adding, “Ang mga waste dapat pina-flush sa CR, okay? Katulad nito, umiinom ako ng antioxidant, so lahat ng waste in my body, ipa-flush natin ‘yan sa CR.” As questions continued to appear in the comment section, Gonzaga stood her ground. “Just like ‘yung ibang katanungan ng mga tao rito na wala namang silbi. [At wala namang] pupuntahan ang mga ganyang questions,” she said. Gonzaga and Soriano marked their 10th wedding anniversary last year. Neither has indicated any issues in their relationship.

Toni Gonzaga (right) and husband, Paul Soriano, have been linked to a blind item about a celebrity couple whose marriage is reportedly on the rocks

LIFE

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16, 2026

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

How a young clinic found its way through the toughest times

Land and go online

Globe opens store at NAIA Terminal 3 Arrivals to keep inbound tourists connected GLOBE has opened a new store at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, giving arriving passengers instant access to mobile connectivity. Located right at the arrivals exit, the store aims to make life easier for international travelers landing in the Philippines. NAIA handled a record 52.02 million passengers last year, according to the airport’s website, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and underscoring the rebound in air travel. With thousands arriving daily, the store offers physical SIM cards and eSIM activation, prepaid load top-ups, and bill payments, catering to a wide range of traveler needs. To celebrate the opening, Globe is running special promotions. Travelers purchasing a Globe Traveler SIM can receive a free portable neck pillow and a Grab voucher. This promo runs until Jan. 31. “Global traveler volume at NAIA has surged to record highs, and we’re making sure every visitor begins their Philippine journey with reliable connectivity,” said Givielle Florida, head of Globe Prepaid. “Our new NAIA store ensures travelers have seamless access to community, mobility, and information the moment they arrive.”

Dr. Michelle Supapo, who heads the non-surgical division of Ysera Aesthetics Center, leads minimally invasive and machine-based aesthetic treatments at the clinic

By Nickie Wang

HEN Ysera Aesthetics Center opened its doors six years ago, medical aesthetics was still finding its footing in the local market. It was a calculated step into a field that was only beginning to gain mainstream attention, taken just months before the world would grind to a halt.

“Our corporation is formally known as Ysera Medical Aesthetics, but our clinic has been known as Ysera Aesthetics Center from where we started,” said business head Noel Agbayani, as he traced the company’s beginnings. The clinic has two doctors who lead distinct but complementary departments. Dr. Michelle Supapo heads the non-surgical division, overseeing non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures. Her work covers machine-based treatments, injectables, and therapistled procedures, placing her at the frontline of patients seeking aesthetic care without surgery. On the surgical side is Dr. Patrick David Tan, who leads a Staff members man the newly opened team focused on procedures such Globe store at NAIA Terminal 3 Arrivals, as rhinoplasty, liposuction, breast offering SIM, eSIM, load, and bill payment augmentation, blepharoplasty, and services for arriving travelers chin augmentation.

Rhinoplasty remains his main specialty, but the department handles a wide range of surgical requests. Dr. Tan’s background brings together medicine and business. He also owns a spa center and comes from a family deeply rooted in healthcare and entrepreneurship. His father is a businessman, while his mother is an obstetrician-gynecologist. The family owns Kairos Maternity Hospital in Bulacan. Dr. Supapo, meanwhile, comes from a family of doctors, with medicine running through nearly every branch of the household. Only her youngest sister chose a different path. Both doctors share a common academic home. They are alumni of the University of Santo Tomas, where they studied from college through medical school. Dr. Tan earned his degree in Medical Technology from the Faculty of Pharmacy, while Dr. Supapo graduated from the College of Nursing before pursuing medicine. Ysera Aesthetics Center positions itself as a provider of modern skincare, beauty, and wellness treatments for the face and body, offering services that aim to balance safety, effectiveness, and accessibility. The clinic handles slimming treatments using non-invasive methods and provides skincare programs built around cleansing, nourishment, and skin protection. Behind the scenes, staffing was a deliberate choice. With Metro Manila already dense with doctors across specialties, the clinic chose to employ specialists trained through residency programs rather than adding to the congestion within traditional hospital tracks. The timing of Ysera’s launch, however, proved to be its toughest test. “We started the company in January 2020, right before the pandemic, with a staff size of seven to nine, including Dr. Michelle and Dr. Patrick,” Agbayani said. “We have grown since to a staff size of almost 30 personnel, and we turn six years this January.” The growth came after an abrupt stop. “The biggest challenge was having to close because of the pandemic,” he said. “We had barely been operational for about a month and a half, then suddenly the whole world had to stop because of COVID. We had to lay off personnel, which wasn’t a good start for any business.” Beyond survival, the clinic also faced the task of building its identity. “Other challenges have been to properly promote our brand and build it as it should reflect values that we embody, not to mention the staff who also should exhibit our values,” Agbayani added. For now, expansion is not set in stone. “There is no concrete plan,” he said. “But expansion is always a welcome idea. We just need to know how to do it right.” Ysera Aesthetics Center operates out of One Mayon Place Building along Mayon Street in Quezon City, a short distance from Welcome Rotunda, quietly marking its sixth year in an industry that has grown significantly since it first arrived. For more information, call 7255-5357 or 0917-1059324.

A sisterhood startup born from a shared love for beauty How Belle Mariano and sister Daniela launched a makeup brand AT JUST 23 years old, actress Belle Mariano epitomizes the spirit of sisterhood and entrepreneurship. A Kate Adajar growing entrepreneur, Belle proudly stepped into this new chapter in November 2025 alongside her 19-year-old sister, Daniela, and unveiled their passion project. The sisters launched the heartwarming makeup brand Talee, named after their 10-year-old sister, Natalia. Here are some things I appreciated about this entrepreneurial journey: The kind encouragement The business journey began when Daniela excitedly pitched her makeup brand idea during a casual lunch or dinner (Belle was trying to remember!) to Belle and their mom. Belle’s reaction was filled with warmth and admiration. “She really pitched this idea. I told her, ‘Daniela, wow, I didn’t think you can come up with something this big!’” This moment teaches us the importance of believing in our siblings and encouraging their dreams, no matter how big they seem. Belle showed how much she was paying attention and being present as a sister, as she was well aware of how much her sister loves makeup, during our intimate interview at their private launch in BGC. Embracing collaboration When Daniela presented her vision, Belle immediately saw the spark of possibility and told her sister, “Daniela, let’s work on this! This is going to be our project. This is going to be our baby.” She shared this animatedly and reenacted how she told her sister. This commitment illustrates an important lesson: collaboration with family can turn dreams into reality. Supporting each other’s ambitions magnifies the very heart of sisterhood. Celebrating creativity Talee launched with two versatile product lines: the Lip & Cheek Glaze Stain and Lip & Cheek Tint Mud, each crafted with care. “Coming up with the product names was one of the most fun parts of our whole creative process,” shared Belle. They came up with cute names such as Golden Hour, Sweetheart, Sunset Babe, Petal Play, Sangria Night, Mon Cheri, Cinnamon Girl, Barely There, Soft Launch, and Bunny Honey. Channeling selflessness In a world where personal success often takes center stage, Belle chose to celebrate Daniela’s creativity by naming the brand after their youngest

Random Talk

sister. The well-loved actress could have easily named the brand after herself, given her huge following. But Belle said, “Whatever business that is, I’m going to support her,” showing that selflessness within the family can create deeper connections. She redirected the attention away from herself. Valuing the sense of belonging The sisters involved their mom in their brand discussions, showcasing the importance of honoring family preferences. Belle recalled her mother’s only wish. “She wants a subtle lipstick. She Sisters Daniela and Belle Mariano pose asked, ‘Can you add a shade that’s for for the cameras at the intimate launch me?’ [She wants a shade that’s] very event for Talee, the makeup brand they nude. There but not there.” built together and named after their This inclusion teaches us that youngest sister valuing family perspectives enriches collaborative efforts. Making dreams a reality The excitement of launching Talee was heightened when the sisters celebrated their long-anticipated dream at an intimate event. Belle joyfully exclaimed when the press met her, “I’m so happy that this finally happened because we have been working on this for quite some time. I’m glad we have finally launched this! This is our dream! You can get it now—Talee!” The joy here encapsulates the thrill of seeing hard work pay off, a lesson that determination and patience lead to fulfillment. The heart of Talee “What makes Talee different is the core of Talee. It is created by Daniela and me,” Belle simply put it. By weaving their personal stories and sisterly bond into the brand, they remind us that successful ventures thrive on authentic connections and shared values. “We want Talee to be your sister, something you can bring with

Belle Mariano (right) and sister Daniela celebrate the launch of their makeup brand Talee, a passion project rooted in family, creativity, and sisterhood

you anywhere, like your sister. You go hand in hand,” she added, making Talee a symbol of comfort and companionship. To add to that, the shades are simple yet varied. Belle and Daniela want to celebrate authenticity and different kinds of beauty, which is why they offer a wide array of shades. As Belle jokingly quipped, they want girls to be “to-Talee” themselves. Belle’s inspiring journey as an entrepreneur and loving big sister highlights the passion and strength found in sisterhood. Through their makeup brand, Belle and Daniela not only celebrate their love for makeup but also the bond between them. This bond has shed light on the power of sisterhood, teaching us that when sisters unite, they can conquer challenges, share dreams, and create something beautiful. Totally. For your random thoughts, email the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.

Belle (right) and Daniela Mariano (left) are joined by their mother Katrina (center), whose input helped shape Talee’s inclusive products