Manila Standard - 2026 February 6 - Friday

‘Loren to head Senate by 2028’

By Ram Superable

WHAT started out as a joke among the majority bloc is now turning into a concrete plan to have Senator Loren Legarda installed as the first female Senate President, but only after the 2027 budget is approved or before her term ends in 2028.

Legarda, however, said she has not had such a discussion with Senate President Tito Sotto, who survived an attempt to boot him out as leader of the Upper Chamber this week.

“We have not discussed it yet, and don’t worry, I will raise your question with him,” Legarda told reporters.

But Zubiri said Legarda was present during the discussion at the Senate lounge that was also attended by Sotto, Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson, and Senators JV

PBBM says PH making headway in telecom sector

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday highlighted key reforms and infrastructure gains in the telecommunications sector, saying expanded connectivity is central to improving access to education, government services, and economic opportunities nationwide.

Speaking at the Philippine Telecommunications Summit 2026 in Pasay, the President said his administration remains committed to ensuring that every Filipino has access to reliable and affordable digital con-

‘Blue Ribbon draft report likely caused Senate coup attempt’

By Ram Superable and Joel E. Zurbano

A PENDING Blue Ribbon Committee report reportedly recommending the filing of criminal and administrative charges against lawmakers – including three incumbent senators – in connection with anomalous flood control projects may have triggered the attempt to change the Senate leadership, Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson on Thursday said.

“We have reason to suspect that it also originated there,” Lacson said.

“Some of our colleagues in the majority also had vulnerabilities if it appealed to their emotions,” he added.

Senators Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Estrada, and Francis Escudero are among those named in a leaked copy of the draft report, along with former Senator Bong Revilla and former representatives Zaldy Co and Mitch Cajayon-Uy.

He said discussions with Senate President Tito Sotto III pointed to a perception that the leadership might not shield members from fallout.

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos on Wednesday dismissed reports of a leadership shakeup at the House of Representatives, saying he is not aware of any coup moves to unseat Speaker Fausti-

no Dy III.

“I don’t know of

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE

No more mass promotions—Angara

THE Department of Education (DepEd) will begin phasing out policies that have effectively resulted in the automatic promotion of students who fail to meet learning standards, including the long-standing practice of grade transmutation, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said Wednesday.

In a radio interview, Angara cited findings of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), which noted that the combined effect of existing DepEd rules has led to what critics describe as “mass promotion” in public schools.

“Although it is not a formal policy, EDCOM is correct that when the different policies are taken together, they effectively amount to mass promotion,” Angara said.

ship, which is what I think the House needs now, and instituting the reforms that the House requires to show to the Filipino people,” he added.

Marcos and Dy are party-mates under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, which is chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Separately, the younger Marcos said lawmakers have no role in allocating funds once the National Expenditure Program (NEP) reaches Congress.

He was fielding questions about his district reportedly receiving one of the highest allocations from 2023 to 2025, according to a Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism report.

“Number one, that was an initiative of the executive, meaning Congress has nothing to do with it. The legislative is not involved in budget allocations,” he explained.

“It is the prerogative of the executive as to where those funds go when the NEP arrives into Congress,” he added.

He said questions on fund allocations should be directed to the Department of Public Works and Highways, adding that it remains a lawmaker’s duty to push for projects that address district priorities.

“It is the job of a congressman to fight for the projects in their district to make sure that the constituents are well taken care of and that their priorities are met,” Marcos said.

One of the key practices to be discontinued is grade transmutation, where failing marks are adjusted upward to reach the minimum passing grade. Angara said the practice only postpones learning gaps instead of addressing them.

“We will gradually stop that. While compassion is important, the problem is that we are only postponing the issue,” he said.

Angara noted that grade transmu-

tation is not used in national and international assessments, including college entrance exams and standardized tests, making it inconsistent with broader education systems.

To address learning gaps without pressuring teachers to pass underperforming students, Angara pointed to the implementation of the ARAL Program, which assigns tutoring to educators who are not the students’ classroom teachers.

“All tutors will no longer be the child’s own classroom teacher, and the student’s grade should be accurate,” he said.

He explained that under previous arrangements, teachers were discouraged from failing students because they were also required to tutor those who lagged behind, increasing their workload.

Angara also said DepEd will stop policies that indirectly penalize teachers when many students fail, as these have contributed to automatic promotion. “Policies whose effect results in mass promotion will no longer be continued,” he said.

For early-grade learners, Angara said DepEd is shifting away from competitive testing toward foundational learning, values formation, and social skills.

Fewer in-class exams are now being implemented for Kinder to Grade 2, with greater emphasis on reading comprehension and basic skills.

The reforms, Angara said, are aligned with EDCOM II recommendations following the country’s poor performance in international learning assessments.

Filipinos not the target of U.S. ICE raids—envoy

By Katrina Manubay

PHILIPPINE Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez has assured that Filipinos are not being specifically targeted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) amid reports that President Donald Trump is advancing stricter immigration enforcement policies.

In a chance interview with reporters during the logo launch to commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and the Philippines, Romualdez noted that only a few Filipinos have reportedly been affected by these enforcement actions, suggesting that some may have been involved in criminal activity based on information they received.

“They’re not targeting Filipinos, that’s for sure. I mean, we can see that. We’ve seen on many occasions that there’s a few Filipinos, perhaps some

of them were involved in some kind of criminal activity. That is what we were being told. And so that’s something that a country can exercise their right to deport anyone,” he said.

Romualdez also emphasized that overstaying a visa in the U.S. is a serious violation of immigration law, which can result in deportation and long-term bans from re-entering the country.

“If there is a legal path available for individuals, then by all means, we can help them find the right resources, such as an immigration lawyer,” he added.

In January, the Philippine Embassy in Washington highlighted that the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is a temporary visa designed for cultural exchange and should not be viewed as a pathway to employment.

ICE has intensified its operations against undocumented migrants as part of the Trump administration’s strict-

There was no resistance,” he added. Sotto clarified it is not a term-sharing agreement.

Ejercito, Sherwin Gatchalian, Kiko Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros and Bam Aquino.

“She was there when we talked about it,” Zubiri said.

I don’t think it’s a joke. I think we mean it and I think the members of the majority who were there did not object.

Castro said there have been no discussions within the administration regarding a change in the leadership of the Tourism department.

The clarification was made amid speculations on social media and political circles about a looming Cabinet reshuffle involving the Department of Tourism. Other Cabinet portfolios that were reportedly on the chopping block were the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Health, and the Department of Education.

Frasco, who was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., was tossed into a controversy over her alleged propensity to use tourism promotions for personal gains.

She eventually ordered the tearing down of all tourism posters bearing her photos.

Gregorio currently serves as chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the government agency responsible for overseeing national sports programs and development. A businessman and hotelier, he holds a tourism degree from the University of the Philippines.

He has been actively involved in initiatives that integrate sports and tourism, most notably as chair of the newly created National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee, which seeks to harness major sporting events to boost visitor arrivals and promote the Philippines as a premier sports tourism destination.

northern Luzon for their alleged involvement in the illegal manufacture of undocumented cigarettes.

Remulla made the announcement during a press briefing at a warehouse in Barangay Panipuan, Mexico, Pampanga, where authorities found cigarettes, cigarette-making machines, and fake tax stamps.

“We suspect there are two northern Luzon politicians behind it. They are the masterminds, they are the financiers,” the interior secretary said.The Philippine National Police (PNP) is also validating intelligence reports indicating that around 10 other illegal cigarette manufacturing sites may be operating across the country.

“This is an international system. Our intelligence from Singapore and Indone-

“It’s not exactly term-sharing... since they want to have the first woman Senate President, we might as well go ahead and do it,” Sotto said.

“We plan to elect her as the first woman Senate president after the 2027 budget—in other words, in 2028, before her term ends. That’s the plan.”

“Zubiri said, ‘Even if it’s just the last

sia shows that this is being done here, so it is larger than you think,” Remulla said.

Authorities earlier seized truckloads of illicit tobacco products in Valenzuela in operations led by the Highway Patrol Group–National Capital Region and the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

Data from authorities showed the government lost around P30 billion in 2024 due to illegal tobacco sales, revenues intended to fund public healthcare programs.

“This is economic sabotage in the Philippines, so it must be stopped,” Remulla said.

In a joint operation, the PNP and the Bureau of Customs raided an illicit cigarette factory in a warehouse in Barangay Panipuan, resulting in the arrest of six Chinese nationals and 63 Filipinos, and the recovery of an estimated P400 million worth of smuggled cigarettes, Remulla said.

“These series of successful anti-smuggling operations are proof of

ceived it already. The Speaker decides when to include it in the Order of Business, but so far, there is none yet,” Tinio noted.

er enforcement of immigration laws, which include efforts aimed at mass deportations.

In May, reports indicated that ICE agents in Maui detained teachers of Filipino descent, including some who are U.S. citizens or legally residing in Hawaii under a J-1 visa.

Earlier, the Philippine Embassy in Washington informed the Manila Standard that it is closely monitoring the case of a 33-year-old Filipina with a criminal record, who was among those detained by ICE during New Year celebrations.

This follows a press release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which identified her as one of ten “criminal illegal aliens.”

The DHS reported that she had been convicted of burglary, grand theft, and battery in Deltona, Florida.

two or three months of your term.’ I said, ‘sure, why not?’” Sotto added. Zubiri said the timing being discussed is after the Senate’s transfer to the New Senate Building, which he described as a legacy project of Sotto and Lacson.

“We’re looking at possibly after the transfer to the New Senate Building… by late 2027… After which, of course, before the 2028 elections, Senator Loren Legarda could sit as Senate President,” he said.

the PNP’s commitment not only to maintaining peace and order but also to protecting our economy and national interest,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

“Let these operations serve as a stern warning to all smugglers that the PNP will not allow you to circumvent and disregard our laws to enrich yourselves at the expense of the Filipino people,” he added.

Remulla said the six Chinese suspects were accused of forcing 65 Filipinos to work in inhumane conditions at the factory.

“They were rescued. They are victims of human trafficking. We have not seen any lease contracts from the Chinese manufacturers yet, so the owner of the land and the incorporators are also liable,” he said.

The operators allegedly recruited 65 Filipinos—54 men and 11 women—with the promise of a P15,000 monthly salary, which was never paid, Remulla added.

not made any such statement, nor have I confirmed or announced any such course of action,” Poa added.

“It’s easy to say, ‘You see, the leadership can’t protect you, we can’t be protected by the leadership,’” Lacson said.

Sotto confirmed Wednesday the majority bloc blocked an effort to remove him from the Senate presidency.

The minority bloc reportedly offered the position to Senator Loren Legarda, who declined the offer.

As this developed, a lawyer has filed a petition for full disclosure of the Blue Ribbon’s draft report on its investigation into flood control projects.

According to Eldrige Marvin Aceron, the petition is in accordance with the right of the Filipino people to access information pertaining to matters of public interest as stipulated in Article III, Section 7 of the Constitution.

On February 4, 2026, Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri, JV Ejercito, and Sherwin Gatchalian reportedly withdrew their signatures from the draft report — prompting the petitioner’s request to compel the three to provide written explanations for their retractions.

The petition included six requests, one of which is the release of the complete and unredacted draft of the draft report. It also called for the preservation of all versions, including the original draft signed prior to the three retractions.

Additionally, the petition seeks to provide a certified true copy to the Ethics Committee concerning pending complaints against Escudero and Ejercito.

A total of 347 individuals signed as co-signatories, including Constitutional Commissioner Ed Garcia and National Artist Virgilio Almario. On October 2, 2025, Aceron also filed a verified ethics complaint against Escudero, documenting the P30 million campaign donation received from Lawrence Lubiano and the P16.67 billion government contract awarded to Lubiano’s Centerways Construction.

tonio Tinio said the secretary general should refer the complaints to the Office of the Speaker as soon as the complaint was vetted pursuant to House rules.

He explained that the secretary general has the “ministerial function” of immediately referring impeachment charges to the Speaker who in turn has 10 session days to calendar it in the chamber’s official business.

“Hence, the Speaker should have re-

Meanwhile, the Vice President’s camp has rejected claims that a person identified as “Mary Grace Piattos” would be presented as a defense witness if the Senate proceeded with the impeachment trial, In a text message to reporters, lawyer Michael Poa clarified that reports indicating “Mary Grace Piattos” would be included in Duterte’s defense were ‘inaccurate.”’

“For clarity, this is inaccurate. I have

“Mary Grace Piattos” has become a controversial figure after being listed as a recipient of confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education during the Duterte’s administration before she resigned as Education secretary in June 2024.

Poa’s clarification followed his earlier statement in an interview with DZMM wherein he indicated that impeachment proceedings would be the appropriate venue to

more than $6 billion last year, reflecting sustained investment and regulatory reforms.

“More importantly than that figure is what it represents: years of investment, progressive reform, and a clear belief that digital access can uplift lives,” Mr. Marcos said.

He cited the rollout of 5G networks, expanded fiber-optic infrastructure, and the growth of mobile broadband, noting that by the third quarter of 2025, providers had deployed more than 1.8 million cable kilometers nationwide.

“These gains mean faster access to education, to health services, government programs, and to livelihoods,” Marcos said.

He acknowledged that while internet speeds have improved, many rural and remote areas still face unreliable service due to permit delays, rightof-way issues, fiber cuts, and power interruptions.

To address these gaps, the Chief Executive pointed to the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which removed the requirement for a congressional franchise to operate data transmission networks and mandated infrastructure sharing among providers to lower costs.

He also cited the completion of the first three phases of the National Fiber Backbone Project, which connected about 690 government agencies and benefited nearly 17 million users, as well as the Free Public Internet Access Program, now operating more than 9,500 free Wi-Fi sites nationwide.

address all allegations against the Vice President, including those related to confidential funds. Earlier, two impeachment complaints were filed against the Vice President with the Office of the Secretary General of the House of Representatives. The first complaint was lodged by members of the Makabayan Coalition, endorsed by the Makabayan bloc in the House. The second complaint was submitted by civil society and religious groups, endorsed by Akbayan party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima.

Coastal areas urged to brace for storm impact

By Rex Espiritu

SOME parts of the country are now preparing for the expected impact of Tropical Storm Basyang.

Coastal communities in the southern portions of Panay have been advised to conduct preemptive evacuations ahead of the forecast impact of the storm.

Civil Defense Regional Director Raul Fernandez, chair of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, made the call during a virtual weather update on Thursday, urging residents to remain vigilant.

“Let us all expect the worst and prepare accordingly,” Fernandez said, as Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 was raised over Guimaras, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, and Antique.

Fernandez said conditions would be critical due to limited visibility and advised local disaster councils to prepare generator sets in case of power interruptions, as well as fuel and relief goods.

PAGASA Iloilo Radar Station official Rolly Cuenca said Basyang is expected to reach the tip of Negros Occidental by Friday evening.

Forecasts showed that coastal areas in southern Iloilo and Antique remain at risk of storm surge and strong waves if Basyang maintains tropical storm strength.

Data from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau indicated that 630 barangays in 38 local government units across Panay are susceptible to rain-induced landslides and flooding.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Western Visayas said its Predictive Analytics for Humanitarian Response model showed that 26 LGUs may receive 100 to 150 millimeters of rainfall over the next 72 hours, potentially affecting up to 93,011 families or 465,077 individuals.

Non-resident files SC petition vs. garbage fee

By Pot Chavez

A PETITION for certiorari and prohibition was filed before the Supreme Court on Thursday challenging the constitutionality of a Manila ordinance imposing a revised schedule of garbage collection fees.

In an interview with Manila Standard, petitioner Barry Tayam, a resident of Las Piñas City, said he is asking the High Tribunal to declare the ordinance null and void.

Tayam said he filed the petition as a concerned citizen, stressing that the case involves public interest.

He said the Manila city government should reconsider what he described as excessively high garbage fees, adding that he hopes the Supreme Court will rule in his favor, particularly on procedural issues, despite his non-residency in Manila.

Among those named as respondents were Manila Mayor Francisco Moreno Domagoso and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza.

Tayam is also asking the High Court to order the Manila city assessor and treasurer to stop assessing and collecting the new fees, which reportedly increased by as much as 1,200 percent or 12 times the previous rate.

Last month, Domagoso announced the updated garbage fees, citing rising hauling costs and increased waste volume, noting that the rates had remained unchanged since 2013 and are now based on industry type and actual waste output.

Sandigan denies Revilla plea on jail transfer

By Maricel V. Cruz

CITING lack of basis, the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday denied the appeal of former senator Ramon Revilla Jr. to be detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

villa and the other accused,” the Sandiganbayan said.

“From the foregoing, there is no basis for Revilla’s claims of harm, harassment, and threats to his person that would warrant a transfer of his custody to any PNP custodial facility,” it added.

IN BRIEF

Comelec opens COC filing for Antipolo City

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday announced the start of the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the congressional race in Antipolo City’s second district from February 5 to 7.

Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia said the filing period forms part of preparations for the upcoming special election in the district.

Garcia said the poll body is proceeding with the electoral process despite limited funding, noting that only P11 million has so far been released.

“The court visited the jail facilities where the accused are being detained on January 23, 2026. As to the Male Dormitory, the court is convinced that the jail’s security measures are sufficient for the safekeeping of Re -

In a 30-page resolution dated February 5, the anti-graft court identified the Quezon City Jail Male Dormitory on Payatas Road and the Female Dormitory at Camp Tomas B. Karingal in Barangay Sikatuna Village as the designated jail facilities for persons implicated in the flood control scandal, including Revilla. Both facilities have no congestion issues and are the nearest Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facilities to the Sandiganbayan, the court said.

“After due consideration, the court denies the motions to transfer the commitments of Revilla and former DPWH Bulacan First District Engineering Office official Emelita Juat to a PNP custodial facility,” the resolution stated.

The Sandiganbayan Third Division is handling the case of Revilla and six other accused over the alleged ₱92.8-million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.

Court convicts woman for selling baby

By Pot Chavez

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday announced the conviction of a woman who sold an 11-month-old baby boy online for P50,000.

In a two-page order, the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 99 accepted the accused’s guilty plea and sentenced her to six years of imprisonment for each count.

The accused pleaded guilty to two counts of violation of Republic Act 7610, which provides special protection of children against abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.

The case arose from her willful and unlawful engagement in the marketing of children through a Facebook group page named “Child Adoption Center Philippines” and via Facebook Messenger.

The DOJ said its panel of prosecutors worked closely with the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center and social welfare officers, leading to coordinated efforts that resulted in a plea bargain and conviction.

He said Comelec had requested P98 million to cover ballot printing, election paraphernalia, personnel deployment, voter education, and vote-counting machine operations, but the amount released remains insufficient.

Despite the shortfall, Garcia said Comelec is coordinating with the Department of Budget and Management for additional funds and assured the public that the special election will proceed as scheduled. Vito Barcelo

Solon pushes stronger animal welfare law

AMID rising cases of animal cruelty, House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima filed measures to strengthen Republic Act 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act, as amended.

De Lima filed House Bill 7238 or the Revised Animal Welfare Act, which sets minimum standards for humane treatment, including proper food, shelter, veterinary care, humane transport, and conditions allowing natural animal behavior.

She said existing laws have failed to curb cruelty, noting that many cases remain unreported and enforcement gaps persist, citing high-profile abuse incidents including the killing of a pet dog in Camarines Sur. Maricel V. Cruz

QC institutionalizes vendors’ business school

THE Quezon City government has approved an ordinance empowering vendors to establish the country’s first vendors’ business school.

Ordinance No. SP-3430 institutionalizes the Quezon City Vendors’ Business School to promote professionalism, sustainability, and development while recognizing vendors’ role in the local economy.

The program offers training in business management, food safety, customer service, financial literacy, climate adaptation, and compliance with city regulations for market vendors and street sellers.

The initiative is implemented in partnership with the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research Resilient Cities Initiative, which supports urban food systems and food security.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said the ordinance ensures annual funding, free training, and program continuity, building on a pilot launched in 2024 that trained 108 vendor-participants. Rio N. Araja

IN BRIEF

NAC processes 7,758 amnesty applications

THE National Amnesty Commission (NAC) said it has received 7,758 amnesty applications as of Jan. 26, and urged eligible former rebels to file their applications ahead of the March deadline to ensure prompt processing.

In an interview on the news outlet Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon on Wednesday, NAC chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento said most of the applications came from former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army–National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), totaling 6,235.

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front filed 1,001 applications, 500 less that the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) applications, while the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas–Revolutionary Proletarian Army–Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB) filed 92 applications. Rex Espiritu

DENR reopens Virgin Island in Panglao

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Region VII, in collaboration with the provincial government of Bohol, the local government unit of Panglao, and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), has reopened Puntod Island nestled within the Panglao Island Protected Seascape.

The move was taken Feb. 2 following the approval of PAMB Resolution No. 03 lifting the temporary closure order handed down in 2024 due to unabated destruction of corals at the Estaca snorkeling site.

The re-opening of Puntod, also called the Virgin Island, was contingent on adherence to strict DENR ecotourism guidelines, marine tourism rules, and existing environmental laws on sustainable and responsive ecotourism. Minerva Newman

NHA gives away 25 homes in Brgy Deparo

THE National Housing Authority (NHA) on Thursday awarded 25 housing units to beneficiaries in Deparo, Caloocan City as part of the continuing rollout of the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program under general Manager Joeben Tai.

NHA assistant general manager Alvin Feliciano represented Tai at the awarding of the housing units at Deparo Residences 6 in Barangay 168, Deparo.

He underscored the agency’s direct role in implementing national housing initiatives in highly urbanized areas through coordinated partnerships with local government units and key shelter agencies.

Deparo Residences is a flagship 4PH housing development of the NHA in Caloocan City, composed of 12 residential buildings with a total of 648 residential units and 72 commercial units. Rio N. Araja

FOILED DRUG SMUGGLING.

Customs agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, assisted by the InterAgency Drug Interdiction Task Group, block an attempt to smuggle into the country banned marijuana substances of still undetermined value, and promptly arrest the owners of the package, two Filipinos who arrived from Thailand. BOC photo

DAR probes land-grabbing case involving 187 hectares in Tarlac

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Agrarian Refom (DAR) is investigating a landgrabbing case involving over 187 hectares of agricultural land in Capas, Tarlac covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.

DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III ordered DAR Region 3 director Eric Luna to “ascertain, without delay, the facts and circumstances surrounding the matter,” although the

case occurred before his term. Estrella wanted an immediate and thorough investigation into the issue, and vowed not to tolerate any abuse of agrarian reform laws.

He gave Luna 15 days to submit a comprehensive report of findings and recommendations to serve as basis for appropriate legal and administrative action.

Estrella said those liable would be held liable for violation of agrarian reform laws, ensuring however, that all parties would be accorded due process and a fair resolution of the case.

“The allegations are grave and strike at the very core of agrarian reform. DAR will act decisively to uncover the truth and to ensure that

WATERWAYS REVIVAL.

the rights of our farmers are fully protected,” the DAR chief stressed.

According to DAR, “a preliminary review of records from the Department shows that no transactions involving the questioned land occurred during the Marcos administration.”

Documents from DAR-Tarlac office confirmed the landholdings were placed under agrarian reform in 1996, and that certificates of land ownership award have been issued to the farmers.

MMDA presses river-cleaning ops in Malabon

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, in collaboration with the Malabon City government, on Thursday launched a cleanup operation as part of the agency’s Bayanihan sa Estero program, an initiative introduced by President Marcos to mitigate flooding by eliminating wastes and silts from waterways.

MMDA officials led by chairman Romando Artes and general manager Nicolas Torre III, along with Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, spearheaded the cleanup drive in Barangay Longos and Barangay Tonsuya ahead of the rainy season.

WNC-TMO partnership forged to secure Tubbataha Reefs

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Navy’s Western Naval Command (WNC) has formalized a partnership with the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) with a view to strengthening maritime monitoring and conservation initiatives in the Sulu Sea. Under a memorandum of agreement signed on Feb. 3, a naval moni-

toring detachment will be set up at the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Ranger Station to boost inter-agency coordination and maritime situational awareness in the area.

WNC commander Rear Admiral Vincent Sibala said the tie-up manifests the Navy’s commitment to protecting marine ecosystems while supporting national security objectives. “By integrating naval assets with TMO’s expertise, we fortify our defenses against illegal activities and promote sustainable maritime stewardship.” Sibala said.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Protected Area superintendent Angelique Songco said the collaboration will strengthen ranger operations and ensure continued protection of the

reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its rich marine biodiversity.Located in the Sulu Sea, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park faces persistent threats from illegal fishing, poaching, and environmental degradation. The planned naval detachment is expected to provide realtime support for patrols, surveillance, and rapid response operations.

ASEAN women-leaders converge in QC

WOMEN-leaders from 11 Asian nations, led by a Filipina, have met in Quezon City to formally commence their engagement to a bigger threeday Women Economic Forum to be hosted by the Philippines in June.

Dr. Maricor Malitao, Association of Southeast Asian Nation WEF 2026 executive president, said “women leadership is not optional but essential.”

“Let us be proud that such a big ASEAN organization chose the Philippines as the venue to share to one another the best practices of being a woman-leader and the role she plays in economic growth,” she stressed. Empowered women are drivers of sustainable development, she added. Malitao called for unified government support in the conduct of the WEF ASEAN 2026 from June 18 to

20 with a theme «Women Leaders: Creating a SHEconomy Environment of Inclusive Growth and Economic Sustainability; «Together WE Navigate the Future.”

On Wednesday night, Malitao led a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Great Eastern Hotel symbolizing the official launch of WEF ASEAN 2026, a powerful tool to showcase the contributions of invited foreign delegates, womenleaders, entrepreneurs, policy-makers and advocates from Southeast Asia.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, represented by councilor Ellie San Juan, expressed belief that “development does not distinguish any sector,” citing the city as home to 70,000 business establishments, 40 percent of them owned by women-investors.

Rio N. Araja

Artes gave assurance that the agency will continue to support the barangays through cleanup initiatives, pavement marking, tree trimming, misting operations, and deployment of the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) truck, which will swap grocery items with the wastes collected by residents.

“You can expect the support and assistance of the MMDA, especially for programs focused on cleanliness, safety, and community preparedness,” he said.

Torre emphasized the importance of unity and discipline among the citizenry to maintain cleanliness and order in the barangay. “It starts with us. When we unite, we can ensure that waste will not return, and our community will remain clean and safe,” he said.

Sandoval thanked the MMDA for its continuous assistance to the city. “The MMDA is a significant help to our city, especially in preparing for the rainy season. With their support, we can strengthen the capacity of our barangays to respond to the challenges of disasters,” she said.

Alongside the cleanup drive, Artes, Torre, and Sandoval inspected the Letre Creek, the Pinagsabugan, and the Sukol Creek where tons of household discards were retrieved to enhance water flow and prevent flooding in the area.

Under the Bayanihan sa Estero Program, the MMDA serves as the lead coordinator in the execution of metrowide estero cleanups. The concerned city or barangay serve as a partner for coordination and mobilization of manpower and resources.

OPINION

Sobriety needed in infra issues

THERE are two reasons why government officials must now shift from emotion to reason in dealing with the controversies hounding the public infrastructure sector. First, alarm bells have been sounded over the country’s economic slowdown. Second, weather forecasts for 2026 point to significant rainfall that may worsen flooding in vulnerable areas. Together, these factors demand decisions grounded in prudence, not panic.

The alarm was raised by two prominent voices: Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chair Panfilo Lacson and economist Solita Monsod. Lacson recently told the Department of Public Works and Highways that it must be prepared to address what he described as the “unwillingness” of contractors to bid for public works projects, citing the much lower ceiling on construction costs imposed by the agency. He pointed out that contractors do not stand to make substantial returns under the current cost limits.

On one hand, reforms being undertaken at the DPWH deserve recognition. This is among the constructive outcomes of the ongoing probe into anomalous flood control projects, which has effectively discouraged those who may have been tempted to profit from such projects “the usual way.”

On the other hand, the government cannot keep the contractor sector perpetually “scared.” Infrastructure work must resume soon if economic momentum is to be restored.

This brings us to Monsod’s warning. She has linked the contraction in public works spending to the economy’s weakest post-pandemic performance, which posted a modest 4.4 percent growth at the close of 2025. She said the contraction was not caused by the corruption scandal itself but by government inefficiency. Recent joint inspections by the DPWH and private contractors have further clarified the situation on the ground.

In Bulacan, where several flood control projects were earlier questioned, inspectors confirmed several projects were physically present and constructed, although some were found to be incomplete or in need of corrective works. These inspections reinforced the need to distinguish between projects that require repair and those that were never built at all. What this means is that both contractors and bureaucrats are now “scared.”

This is both good and bad. It is good because would-be scammers will think twice before abusing the system or cutting corners. It is bad because a major slowdown in public works inevitably drags down the economy.

This is unfortunate, as prior to the scandals, the construction industry was among the fastest growing in Southeast Asia, driven

largely by aggressive government spending under the “Build Better More” program.

The industry also contributes significantly to job creation, supporting thousands of families nationwide.

Another concern is that delays in infrastructure implementation heighten risks in flood-prone areas.

Despite the scandal, many communities remain in urgent need of flood protection.

PAGASA is already forecasting between four and eleven weather disturbances entering the country between now and June.

The “scare strategy” may have served its purpose.

—“—

Infrastructure work must resume soon if economic momentum is to be restored

The time has come for a more sober approach—one that enforces accountability without paralyzing the system meant to deliver essential public works.

For starters, the government must focus on ensuring that alleged “substandard” infrastructure projects—particularly flood control works—are repaired, rehabilitated, or redone in accordance with contract specifications.

As long as projects are not “ghosts,” the public is not without protection.

Constructed projects are covered by warranties, security deposits, or performance bonds. Standard practice requires contractors to undertake corrective works at their own expense within prescribed deadlines.

We believe it is still standard practice for the contractor of a “substandard” project to undertake the repair works at his own expense.

If we correctly recall, contractors are given a deadline to complete such repair works—is it within 90 days from the time that the DPWH orders a repair work? If the contractor fails to comply with that rule, the government agency can do it by itself and get a reimbursement for the cost.

This is the path that Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon should pursue. Contractors with suspected deficiencies must be compelled to honor their obligations. Swift action is critical if the government is to avoid deeper economic slowdown and reduce the risk of flooding as the rainy season approaches.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Ombudsman must remain firm in pursuing those involved in genuine “ghost” projects. There is a clear difference between failing to meet standards and collecting public funds for projects that were never built.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Civil society and mass movements in a changed world

IF THE erosion of the rules-based international order creates vulnerability for smaller nations like the Philippines, the question becomes: who defends multilateralism and democratic values when major powers abandon them?

The answer lies in the organized power of civil society, mass movements, and progressive political forces resisting unilateralism and rising fascism.

Emmanuel Macron and Mark Carney warn of a world drifting toward the law of the strongest. But history shows that popular movements have repeatedly challenged concentrated power.

From anti-colonial struggles to people power movements that toppled dictatorships, organized citizens have confronted forces far more powerful than themselves.

The Philippines faces not only external pressures from great power competition but internal threats from authoritarianism, corporate capture of institutions, and normalized extrajudicial violence.

Civil society organizations, labor unions, environmental defenders, and human rights advocates form the frontline resistance. Their work defending press freedom, documenting abuses, and holding power accountable becomes critical as formal institutions weaken.

Non-governmental organizations provide essential counterweight to state and corporate power. They monitor environmental destruction, provide legal aid, document human rights violations, and build alternative economic models prioritizing community wellbeing.

In a world where rules matter less, NGOs serve as crucial documentation systems, creating records that survive political transitions and demanding accountability when institu-

tional mechanisms fail.

Mass movements generate the political pressure necessary to force change.

Climate justice movements, anti-corruption protests, labor organizing, and Indigenous rights campaigns demonstrate that organized people retain power even when formal channels close.

The challenge is building movements capable of sustained mobilization rather than episodic protest.

Progressive political forces must navigate difficult terrain.

Electoral politics remains important, but rising fascism demonstrates that democracy cannot be defended through elections alone.

—“—

History shows that popular movements have repeatedly challenged concentrated power

Progressive parties must combine electoral strategy with grassroots organizing, popular education, and alternative institutions demonstrating viable alternatives to neoliberal capitalism and authoritarian nationalism.

The obstacles are formidable.

Funding constraints threaten organizational sustainability as international development assistance declines and domestic philanthropy remains limited. Northern governments increasingly prioritize security partnerships over human rights.

Corporate foundations impose ideological constraints, favoring technocratic solutions

Dismissal of impeachment cases vs. Marcos Jr.

THE House Committee on Justice’s decision to dismiss the two impeachment complaints against President Marcos Jr. for insufficiency in substance was not unexpected at all.

What it demonstrates very clearly is that the administration is in firm control and the opposition needs to reconsider its options heading toward 2028.

While the committee formally justified its ruling by declaring the complaints “insufficient in substance,” the overwhelming vote margins point to a political outcome rather than a purely legal one.

The dismissal underscores the administration’s dominance in the House of Representatives.

The 42-1 vote against the first complaint and the decisive rejection of the Makabayan-backed petition reflect the continued cohesion of the administration’s supermajority.

After all, in the Philippine political system, impeachment is as much a test of numbers as of legal merit.

Without congressional defections, such complaints are effectively dead on arrival. The committee’s action confirms that Marcos Jr. remains far from politically vulnerable within the legislature.

The ruling also neutralizes impeachment as a credible threat to the President for the remainder of his term.

Although the Constitution allows future complaints, the precedent set by this dismissal and the scale of legislative support demonstrated makes it highly unlikely that

similar efforts will prosper without a dramatic realignment of power.

This gives Marcos Jr. a significant degree of political insulation as he navigates the latter half of his presidency.

—“—

Committee chairperson Gerville Luistro is correct in pointing out that the dismissal is not about politics but a vote for morality and national welfare

The decision also exposes the limits of parliamentary opposition given current conditions.

With Congress effectively closed as a venue for executive accountability, opposition forces are likely to shift their focus toward mass mobilization, issue-based advocacy, and positioning for the 2028 elections.

For the Marcos administration, the dismissal assures political stability in the near-term as the strong show of congressional loyalty would reassure political allies, investors, and local officials of continuity.

Committee chairperson Gerville Luistro is correct in pointing out that the dismissal is not about politics but a vote for morality and national welfare.

The House committee’s ruling reiterates a long-standing reality of Philippine politics: impeachment functions effectively only when a president has already lost political support.

As can be seen in past political crises, accountability mechanisms tend to activate not at the height of allegations, but at the moment of coalition collapse.

This case reinforces the view that impeachment remains a political, not purely constitutional, safeguard.

Looking ahead to 2028, the implications are clear.

The dismissal consolidates Marcos Jr.’s authority and strengthens his role within the ruling coalition. While the President now enjoys legislative security, the broader contest over legitimacy, governance, and accountability is likely to shift outside Congress and into the arena of public opinion and electoral competition.

It confirms that power remains the decisive factor in impeachment politics, and the real struggle will now focus on shaping narratives, political alliances, and voter sentiment in the next general elections in 2028.

Breakthrough or prelude to attack?

PARIS – US and Iranian officials are holding this week their first talks since Iran launched a deadly crackdown on protests, in a meeting likely to be crucial in determining if the US carries out renewed military action against the Islamic republic.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Wednesday “nuclear talks with the United States are scheduled to be held in Muscat” Friday morning, thanking Oman “for making all the necessary arrangements.”

Tehran has repeatedly stressed that negotiations should remain focused solely on the nuclear issue, but Washington’s top diplomat, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, said they must encompass many other areas of concern.

“In order for talks to actually lead to something meaningful, they will have to include certain things, and that includes the range of their ballistic missiles, that includes their sponsorship of terrorist organizations across the region, that includes their nuclear program and that includes the treatment of their own people,” he said.

The American side has confirmed neither the timing nor the agenda of the negotiations. What is at stake?

Trump has not ruled out fresh military action against Iran should the talks fail, to follow the US attacks on Iranian nuclear sites during Israel’s June war against the Islamic republic.

“I would say he should be very worried, yeah, he should be,” Trump said of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday in an interview with NBC News. “As you know, they are negotiating with us.”

The US has sent a battlegroup led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln to the region, while Iran has threatened retaliation against US bases and vessels in the Middle East if it is attacked.

Tensions between the two foes, who have no diplomatic relations, rose following the

over structural change.

Organizations face impossible choices between maintaining independence and accessing resources.

The shrinking of civic space poses graver threats. Governments worldwide deploy antiterrorism laws, foreign agent restrictions, and criminal defamation suits to silence dissent. Environmental defenders face assassination. Human rights lawyers experience harassment.

Community organizers confront surveillance and intimidation. These pressures intensify when resistance becomes most necessary. The Philippines exemplifies these dynamics. Red-tagging systematically delegitimizes activists by falsely linking them to armed insurgency, creating conditions for violence.

The anti-terrorism law criminalizes broad categories of advocacy. Community organizers defending ancestral lands face death threats.

Press freedom deteriorates.

Yet resistance continues because the alternative is surrender.

Building resilience requires multiple strategies. Organizations must diversify funding sources, developing grassroots support rather

crackdown on a wave of protests by Iranian security forces, which has left thousands dead according to rights groups. But it remains unclear what form any American military intervention would take, ranging from targeted strikes against military infrastructure to a bid to uproot the clerical system under Khamenei that has ruled Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution. Who is involved?

Iran is to be represented at the talks by Araghchi and the US by Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, the White House and Iranian presidency have said.

—“—

Tehran has repeatedly stressed that negotiations should remain focused solely on the nuclear issue

Witkoff, a former real estate mogul, wears multiple hats in foreign policy under Trump and is also actively involved in efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. Araghchi is a veteran diplomat who has spent his career in the Iranian foreign ministry, gaining a reputation as a wily and patient negotiator.

A fluent English speaker, he studied for his PhD on Islamic political thought at England’s University of Kent. What do both sides want?

Trump’s initial calls on Tehran last month were focused on telling the leadership to “stop killing” protesters and warning the authorities not to execute those arrested.

But his focus has shifted to agreeing a new deal on the Iranian nuclear program, which the US and its allies believe is aimed

than depending on external donors.

Solidarity networks across movements create mutual protection and resource sharing. International alliances amplify local struggles and provide some shield against repression. Legal defense networks prepare for increased criminalization. Movement building demands long-term perspective. This means investing in political education, leadership development, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. It requires building democratic cultures within movements, avoiding hierarchies that reproduce the power structures being challenged. It demands centering marginalized voices.

For the Philippines, the path forward requires connecting struggles. Environmental defenders protecting forests fight the same battle as labor organizers resisting exploitation, Indigenous communities defending ancestral domains, and urban communities resisting displacement. These are interconnected resistance to a development model concentrating wealth while destroying ecosystems and communities. The alternative to organized resistance is clear.

at making an atomic bomb.

Washington also wants to curtail Iran’s support for proxy forces in the region and cut its vast arsenal of ballistic missiles. Iran has repeatedly stressed that any talks should focus solely on the nuclear issue and not its missile program or defense capabilities. Where is the meeting?

Initial indications suggested the meeting would be held on Friday in NATO member Turkey, whose President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a pious Sunni Muslim, has on occasion had testy relations with the Shiite theocracy in Tehran but was eager to mediate. Talks are now expected to take place in Oman, as subsequently confirmed by Araghchi, but the scope of the discussions needs to be agreed upon, an Arab diplomat told AFP on Wednesday.

Another regional source with knowledge of the talks said Iran wanted the talks to be “exclusively” with the United States without the involvement of regional powers and to deal only with the nuclear question.

“If the Iranians want to meet, we’re ready,” Rubio told reporters. “They’ve expressed an interest in meeting and talking. If they change their mind, we’re fine with that too.” What is the mood in Iran? Iran is recovering from what rights groups have described as unprecedented mass killing during the crackdown, under the cover of a weeks-long internet blackout. In a sign of the febrile atmosphere, the Tehran municipality issued a statement Wednesday saying loud sounds in the city center were due to a religious holiday and not any other cause.

A new billboard appeared in Tehran showing American planes crashed into a hillside with Iranians flying the flag of the Islamic republic above.

Prominent Iranian news agency Fars, seen as close to the security forces, has in recent days published images of US bases in the Middle East without comment. AFP

A world without rules becomes a world where might makes right, where corporations and authoritarian states divide spoils while the majority suffers increasing precarity, environmental collapse, and violence. Civil society and mass movements cannot prevent all harm, but they can contest it and build power toward different futures. The changed world Macron and Carney describe did not arrive by accident. Neoliberal policies weakened states and unions, creating conditions for authoritarian backlash. Climate change destabilizes societies. Inequality breeds desperation that fascists exploit. Reversing these trends requires not defending the old rules-based order but building something better, a democratic international system based on justice. This work falls disproportionately on those with least power. But history suggests it can succeed. Every right we take for granted was won through struggle.

The task now is building movements capable of defending what exists while reaching toward what could be, organizations resilient enough to survive repression, and solidarity strong enough to sustain long struggles for justice. Facebook: tonylavs Website: tonylavina.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF

Power outage leaves east Cuba in darkness

HAVANA – A power grid failure in eastern Cuba plunged three entire provinces into darkness on Wednesday, utility officials said, leaving hundreds of thousands of people without electricity.

After six decades under US embargo, the communist island’s electricity system is in shambles, with frequent and prolonged outages.

To make matters worse, President Donald Trump threatened last month to cut off Cuba’s heavily subsidized oil supplies from Venezuela.

The provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo in eastern Cuba were “completely” without power, while parts of Holguin province were also hit, the state-owned Union Electrica de Cuba posted Wednesday on X.

The agency said a fault at a substation in Holguin caused an electrical system disconnect that impacted the four provinces.

Cuba’s second-largest city, Santiago de Cuba -- which is home to more than 400,000 people -- was hit by the blackout. AFP

No Mount Fuji festival due to overtourism

TOKYO – A cherry blossom festival

boasting a highly Instagrammable view of Japan’s Mount Fuji has been cancelled after residents complained of overtourism fuelled by the weak yen. The city of Fujiyoshida, in central Japan’s Yamanashi region, said Tuesday that the weeks-long event attracting around 200,000 people will be called off this year because “the quiet lives of local residents are threatened”.

About 42.7 million tourists flocked to Japan in 2025, an all-time high, topping 2024’s record of nearly 37 million as the weak yen boosted the appeal of the “bucket list” destination. But complaints of overcrowding have grown in hotspots like Kyoto, where disrespectful tourists have been accused of harassing kimono-clad geisha performers in their frenzy for photos. In Fujiyoshida, the influx of foreign tourists has seen traffic chronically jammed and cigarette butts tossed, with trespassing and even defecation in private gardens reported by its citizens, the city said. AFP

New Zealand PM heckled by Maori

WAITANGI, New Zealand – New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was heckled by a Maori crowd on Thursday during a speech marking national Waitangi Day celebrations, an annual political gathering that gives Indigenous tribes a chance to air grievances. Luxon’s speech at the site where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed in 1840, was at times drowned out by cries of “treason” from the large crowd.

And he accepted the country’s Indigenous population were not treated equally in New Zealand society.

“No country is perfect. We’re all on a journey,” Luxon said.

“We want equality of opportunity. We’ve got more work to do.” He celebrated the fact that people could heckle him during his speech, saying it was “unique and pretty special” that New Zealand’s politicians could face up to robust criticism during “challenging” times.

Luxon avoided last year’s event as his government faced a level of Indigenous discontent not seen for more than two decades. AFP

Nigeria deploys army after 162 slain in attacks

Atomic bomb survivors fear war as US-Russia pact expires

TOKYO – Japanese atomic bomb survivors said Thursday they feared the world was marching towards nuclear war as the last US-Russian arms control treaty expired.

The New START treaty ended with the turn of the calendar to February 5, after US President Donald Trump did not follow up on Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin’s proposal to extend warhead limits in the agreement for one year.

Terumi Tanaka, co-chair of Nihon Hidankyo, a group of survivors of the 1945 US nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, said the world has failed to see the urgency of the issue.

The staunchly pacifist grassroots group received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2024.

“Given the current situation, I have a feeling that in the not-too-distant future, we’ll actually have a nuclear war and head toward destruction,” Tanaka said at a press conference held with fellow Japanese campaigners. The 93-year-old said he feared that citizens of nuclear-armed nations may not give much thought to their country’s weapons. AFP

Last US-Russia nuke treaty expires in ‘grave moment’

WASHINGTON, DC – The last nuclear treaty between Russia and the United States expired Thursday, abruptly ending decades of restrictions on how many warheads the two top powers can deploy and triggering fears of a global arms race.

New START, signed during a warmer period of relations, ended with the turn of the calendar to Feb 5, with President Donald Trump not following up on Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin’s proposal to extend the treaty’s limits for one year.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called it a “grave moment for international peace and security” and urged

Washington and Moscow to head quickly to the negotiating table.

“For the first time in more than half a century, we face a world without any binding limits on the strategic nuclear arsenals of the Russian Federation and the United States of America,” Guterres said in a statement, which considered the treaty over at midnight GMT or 7 pm in

Why did Xi hold back-to-back calls with Putin, then Trump?

BEIJING – China’s leader Xi Jinping held back-to-back calls with Russia’s Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump this week, timing analysts said on Thursday was rare and significant as Beijing positions itself as a stable global power.

Xi’s video call with Putin on Wednesday afternoon was followed just hours later by a phone call with Trump.

“The timing of the call is rare and interesting. It is not common for Xi to have two calls with Putin and Trump,” George Chen, a partner at The Asia Group wrote in an online commentary.

Xi and Putin spoke for 1.5 hours, according to the Kremlin’s foreign policy aide, while Trump said they had a “long and thorough” conversation.

“It does demonstrate that Xi can hold court and easily pick up the phone to speak with the two ‘strong’ leaders of the world,” said Dylan Loh, an associate professor at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University.

Russia and the United States are two of the “most consequential” countries to China, Loh said, though he cautioned that the timing could have been “a simple scheduling issue.”

Trump said he and Xi discussed trade, Russia’s war in Ukraine and Iran.

He also said that China had committed to increasing soybean purchases from the United States to 20 million tons in the current season.

The call confirmed that “in spite of what’s happened around the world, there is going to be a short-term tactical stabilisation of USChina relations,” Loh said.

The purchase of soybeans, he said, is a “low-hanging fruit.”

On Taiwan, however, Xi warned Washington to exercise caution in arms sales to the self-ruled island, which Beijing claims as its own territory and has vowed to retake by force if necessary. AFP JOS, Nigeria – Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deployed an army batallion to a troubled state after gunmen killed as many as 162 people in one of the country’s deadliest attacks in recent months.

The attack late Tuesday on Woro village in Kwara State came after the military recently carried out operations in the area against what it called “terrorist elements.” Gunmen burned shops and a traditional ruler’s home and wounded people fled into the bushes, Babaomo Ayodeji, Kwara State secretary of the Red Cross, told AFP.

“Reports said that the death toll now stands at 162, as the search for more bodies continues,” Ayodeji said.

The attack was confirmed by police who did not give a casualty figure.

Earlier, a local lawmaker Sa’idu Baba Ahmed gave an initial toll of 35-40 dead but said more bodies would be found as many wounded people had fled into the bush. The governor of the west-central state AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq gave a toll of 75 dead.

Conflicting accounts often emerge after attacks in rural areas.

No group claimed responsibility, but the state government blamed “terrorist cells” and Tinubu blamed the attack on Boko Haram jihadists. AFP

New York.

“This dissolution of decades of achievement could not come at a worse time -- the risk of a nuclear weapon being used is the highest in decades,” he said, after Russian suggestions of using tactical nuclear weapons early in the Ukraine war.

Pope Leo XIV said each side needed to do “everything possible” to avert a new arms race.

“I urge you not to abandon this instrument without seeking to ensure that it is followed up in a concrete and effective manner,” the American-born pope said at his weekly general audience.

Russia’s foreign ministry said it considered that both countries are “no longer bound by any obligations or symmetrical

declarations within the context of the treaty.”

“The Russian Federation intends to act responsibly and prudently,” it added, but warned it was ready to take “decisive” countermeasures if its national security is threatened.

Trump has frequently lashed out at international limits on the United States and called for nuclear testing to resume after a long moratorium, although he has not followed up.

But some observers say the expiration of New START owes less to ideology than to the workings of the Trump administration, where career diplomats are sidelined, simply not having the bandwidth to negotiate a complex agreement. AFP

Ukraine, Russia, US start second day of war talks

ABU DHABI – Ukraine and Russia on Thursday began a second day of USmediated talks in Abu Dhabi aimed at ending a war sparked by Moscow’s 2022 invasion of its pro-Western neighbour. The negotiations are the latest bid in diplomatic efforts to halt the fighting -- Europe’s deadliest since World War II, with hundreds of thousands killed, millions forced to flee their homes and much of eastern and southern Ukraine left decimated.

“The second day of talks in Abu Dhabi has begun. We’re working in the same formats as yesterday: trilateral consultations, group work, and subsequent alignment of positions,” Ukraine’s lead negotiator Rustem Umerov said. The first day of talks in the Emirati capital concluded with Kyiv describing the negotiations as “substantive and productive”, though there was no apparent breakthrough.

“There is definitely progress, things

are moving forward in a good, positive direction,” Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev told state media. Dmitriev slammed what he called attempts from European nations to “disrupt the progress”.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Wednesday that 55,000 of his country’s troops had been killed, a rare assessment of battlefield losses by either side.

Russia has also stepped up strikes on Ukraine’s power infrastructure, leaving many people, including residents of the capital Kyiv, without power and shivering through temperatures as low as minus 20C in recent days.

Overnight Russia attacked with two missiles and 183 drones, the air force said.

The attacks injured two people in Kyiv. Ukraine’s chief negotiator Umerov said “concrete steps and practical solutions” had been discussed in the first day of the talks. AFP

WASHINGTON—

Anthony Davis, a 10-time

NBA All-Star forward, was traded by the Dallas Mavericks to Washington in a blockbuster deal involving eight players and five NBA Draft picks, ESPN reported on Wednesday.

Davis, the top overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, was traded to the Mavs last February by the Los Angeles Lakers in the deal that sent Luka Doncic in the opposite direction.

On Wednesday, ESPN cited unnamed sources in reporting the Mavericks sent Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum to the Wizards.

In exchange, Washington sent Dallas Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III plus two first-round draft picks and three second-round selections, according to the report.

The swap will give the Mavericks a first-round pick from Oklahoma City in this year’s NBA Draft and a 2030 first-round pick from the Wizards plus second-round choices in 2026, 2027 and 2029 obtained in prior deals with other clubs.

Several deals came ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, with Milwaukee’s Greek star big man Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ja Morant of Memphis the biggest names also expected to be on the move.

The Cleveland Cavaliers made their deal for James Harden official on Wednesday, a day after multiple reports revealed the 11-time NBA AllStar guard was leaving the Los Angeles Clippers for the Cavs in exchange for guard Darius Garland.

“James Harden has cemented himself as an all-time great in this league and he adds another elite playmaker and All-NBA talent to our roster,” Cavs president of basketball operations Koby Altman said.

“We’re excited about the impact he will have on our group and our championship aspirations. His presence will elevate our offense, create opportunities for teammates and bring valuable playoff experience at both ends of the floor.”

Davis shipped to Wizards in blockbuster NBA trade

Davis, 32, has struggled with injuries over many years. He has averaged 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.7 blocked shots and 1.1 steals in 20 games for Dallas this season. His career averages are 24.0 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists 2.3 blocks and 1.3 steals per contest.

The Wizards, second-worst in the Eastern Conference at 13-36, add Davis to a lineup that includes four-time NBA All-Star guard Trae Young, obtained last month in a deal with Atlanta.

The Mavericks, 19-31 and on a five-game losing skid, add financial

Davao South enters national football finals

By Peter Atencio

DAVAO South RFA (DRFA) topped the Mindanao Group H meet to advance to the tournament proper of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) U19 national finals.

DRFA finished the cluster with seven points, following a 2–all draw against Golden Davao RFA (GODARFA), and 2–0 victory over Bukidnon FA. Leomer, Polo won Man of the Match for Davao City’s Rizal Memorial Colleges.

flexibility plus future draft picks to help rebuild the squad around star rookie Cooper Flagg. Paul on the move

Another ESPN report had Chris Paul sent to Toronto in a threeteam deal involving the Los Angeles Clippers, Brooklyn Nets and Toronto Raptors. The Nets landed Ochai Agbaji, a 2032 Raptors second-round pick and cash.

The Raptors reportedly will not require Clippers guard Paul to report to the team and might deal him away.

The Golden State Warriors, one of the teams said to be angling to

acquire Antetokounmpo, are trading forward Jonathan Kuminga and guard Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks for center Kristaps Porzingis, The Athletic reported. That deal would see 23-year-old Kuminga’s tumultuous tenure with the Warriors end after four-plus years during which he was often overlooked by Golden State coach Steve Kerr.

Another reported deal sent Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain to the Oklahoma City Thunder for a 2026 first-round draft choice plus three second-round selections. AFP

Junior Lady Altas stay undefeated

GRADE 11 standout Sherrie Rose Acosta once again spearheaded the offense as the Perpetual Help Junior Lady Altas stayed unbeaten, hacking out an 18-25, 25-19, 25-19 victory over the EAC Lady Brigadiers in the NCAA Season 101 Volleyball Fiesta on Thursday at the Arellano Gym in Pasay City.

Acosta finished with 16 points—15 coming off attacks and one block—to power the Sandy Rieta-mentored Junior Lady Altas to their third straight win in the elimination round.

Joycelle Casil provided solid support with 12 points, built on nine attacks, a block and two service aces, while also contributing five digs on defense.

Playmaker Jasmine Monte efficiently ran the offense, tallying 19 excellent sets out of 88 attempts. On the back line, her sister, libero Janine Espiritu, chipped in with four digs and eight excellent receptions.

For EAC, Apple Joy Clapero led all scorers with 13 points, highlighted by 10 attacks and three blocks, but the Lady Brigadiers fell short after taking the opening set.

Recto promises continued government support to Filipinas

EXECUTIVE Secretary Ralph G. Recto met with the Philippine Women’s Football National Team on February 4, 2026 to recognize their achievements and reaffirm the government’s continued support for Philippine sports.

Later, DRFA won over Davao North, 4–2, behind standout player James Krisher Gamite, for the lone national berth.

“Our boys are very proud and happy to have won the regional competition, and we now shift our focus to preparing for the national level,” said coach Arman Valencia in statement.

Padawan, these

LAST Wednesday, the Philippine Football Federation released the list of callups for the national team training camp for the forthcoming AFC Women’s Asian Camp 2026. The final preparations for the biggest women’s football event in the continent this year will run the whole of February beginning at the SM Mall of Asia Sky Pitch|Rizal Memorial Stadium (February 1-5 and February 17-22), Balesin Island in Quezon Province (February 6 to 15) and in Perth, Australia (February 24-28).

Those who received the call are goalkeepers Gabrielle Baker, Leah Bradley, Kiara Fontanilla, Isabelle Mapanao, Liv McDaniel and Nina Meollo; midfielders Allesandara Carpio, Anicka Castañeda, Jourdyn Curran, Sara Eggesvik, Kaya Hawkison, Natalie Oca, Isabella Passion, Alexa Pino, Jaclyn Sawicki, Aaliyah Schinaman and Ava Villapando. Joining them are defenders

Torcaso is set to achieve a personal milestone in Perth as he will call the shots in his first-ever Asian Cup.

Angela Beard, Malea Cesar, Jessika Cowart, Janae Defazo, Hali Long, Ariana Markey, Aiselyn Sia and Sofia Wunsch. Completing the camp are forwards Carleigh Frilles, Katrina Guillou, JaelMarie Guy, Chandler McDaniel, Paige McSwigan, Mary Louise Ramirez and Meryll Serrano. When this comes out, most of the Filipinas will be wrapping up their initial training at the Sky Pitch and packing their bags for Balesin.

Bonding, however, will have to wait for a little bit as several senior players are still committed to their mother clubs. The McDaniels are in deep preparations, too, as they lead the Stallion Laguna’s charge in the Asian Women’s Champions League. The great Ernest Nierras confirmed to The Designated Kit Man that this will be the case for Liv and Cha for the meantime.

Coach Ernest also mentioned that the team will have a friendly today against the Hyundai Steel Red Angels in Clark, Pampanga.

In a statement, Filipinas head coach Mark Torcaso reiterated the need for the team to raise their game further as they will be facing tougher and stronger teams in the Asian Cup. A side trip to Balesin will also help a lot for the players to know more about their teammates. Like what they say in basketball, para “magkaamuyan na” whether they are on and off the pitch.

“The players understand that we’re obviously going to a competition that is much tougher than the SEA Games. So now it’s about lifting our intensity, our quality, our fitness levels, our speed to be of another level higher than that and obviously to achieve the opportunity to go to another World Cup,” Torcaso said.

Two other players, Sawicki and Cowart will have to follow after club duties in their respective leagues. Sawicki plays for Calgary Wild in the Northern Super League, while Cowart is a defender for Vancouver Rise in the same league.

Same, too, with Long who will play her last game on the 21st for College of Asian Scholars in the Thai Women’s League 1. At least, the new players will have a good start and the opportunity to know more about each other in Balesin.

Some 26 players will eventually comprise the team that will compete in the Asian Cup. So it is going to be a “good” problem for Torcaso and the coaching staff. For the GK position alone, six Filipinas are competing for only three spots.

Granted that Liv is secure with her spot, then the remaining five will duke it out for the last two spots.

The Executive Secretary congratulated the team for winning the country’s first-ever SEA Games women’s football gold medal in 2025. In turn, the team expressed the gratitude for the strong support it has received from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Recto reiterated that the government will continue to support Filipino athletes through clear policies, sustained funding, and programs that strengthen talent development and internationa competitiveness. Earlier in January, Executive Secretary Recto met with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to accelerate the upgrading of sports facilities and enhance athlete development nationwide, in line with the President’s directive to make sports a stronger national priority.

The Designated Kit Man is just happy that Mapanao is given another opportunity to return to the camp and hopefully crack a spot in the seniors squad. I have known Isabelle since she returned to the country several years back. Her Dad, Donnie and I have been in constant contact for the last few years for the latest updates on Isabelle’s career. While the young goalkeeper is currently based in Oklahoma playing for Rose College Raiders, she is not closing her doors on possible opportunities elsewhere.

Regardless of the final lineup, at least the future remains clear with young players ready to make their mark with the Filipinas. With proper guidance, support and empathy, these Padawans will be the face of the Filipinas in international competitions. After their first-ever gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, the Filipinas have been placed in a towerblock, which to say that a lot is expected from them is an understatement.

The Filipinas have consistently brought honors to the sun and the three stripes and hopefully will continue to do so in Australia and a possible return to the World Cup. They will open their bid in the Asian Cup against host Australia on March 1 at Perth Stadium. The Filipinas will next face South Korea on March 5 at the Gold Coast Stadium before concluding their group fixtures against Iran on March 8 at the same venue.

So the next question is whatever hap-

pened to Maz Pacheco? There was so much hype and hope for her to play for the country last year. But nothing happened except an update that she is now open to represent Belgium in international competitions. Ano na po nangyari, PFF?

Speaking of another “anyare,” someone told The Designated Kit Man that a recent tryout in the United States that aimed to discover new talents and possible players for the national team for this ever controversial sporting association has turned off several parents and athletes who wished to participate. The organizers apparently charged, as the source claimed, $150 per participant and at least 150 hopefuls showed up. I don’t know if this is the case now for this NSA or its partners, but when I asked several people I know, who conducted several tryouts ever since I can remember, tryouts should be free.

Some people who also conducted similar tryouts in the US also said they never charged any fee during the player search and identification process. Several parents also confirmed that they never paid for the participation of their kids. I’m just hoping that this is not another case of “trabaho na nga, pinagkakitaan pa.” Will find more details about this

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG,

Asst. Editor

Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO,

By Peter Atencio

ALEXANDRA “Alex” Eala is on the verge of another career milestone, with her live WTA ranking climbing to a personal best No. 38 after a stirring come-from-behind victory over Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus on Thursday at the Mubadala WTA 500 Abu Dhabi Open.

The 20-year-old Filipina, officially ranked No. 45 entering the tournament, surged in the live rankings after outlasting Sasnovich, 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7-5), in a dramatic second-round encounter that lasted two hours and 51 minutes at Zayed Sports City’s International Tennis Center.

The win sent Eala into the quarterfinals and set her up for a showdown with second seed Ekaterina Alexandrova at 9 p.m. Thursday night (Manila time).

After dropping the opening set and falling behind, 0-4, Eala leaned on her fighting spirit— buoyed by a stadium court packed with Filipino fans—to claw her way back into the match.

“I really tried my best in those moments to fight, and in the end, when I was coming back, I was able to find it. I’m really proud of that,” Eala said. Eala admitted she was staring at defeat before finding another gear in the deciding set.

“I was down a match point and there were a lot of times that I could have given up. But what made this win a lot special is that, I guess, because I kept on fighting,” she said in the post-match press conference.

The emotional victory unfolded in front of an energized Filipino community in Abu Dhabi, whose constant cheers seemed to lift Eala through every tense rally.

“I know that if I fight, out of 10, I’m not gonna win 10 out of 10. But I would have won,” said Eala.

Despite the surge in confidence and rankings, Eala remained grounded as she turned her attention to the next challenge.

“I do have a long way to go. Each round is even more of a challenge—it has its own unique challenge, every match. So I’ll try my best to recover and prepare for my next game,” she said. Soaking in the moment, Eala summed up the experience in Filipino, hinting that her resolve will be tested again as she continues her Abu Dhabi run. “Siyempre masaya at napasok ako. Iyung tibay ng puso ko ay mapapasubok ulit,” she said.

Surging Eala claims live ranking of world no. 38

ABAP elects Manalo president, eyes Olympic gold

By Randy M. Caluag

THE Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) unveiled a new leadership on Wednesday, installing long-time official and sports psychologist Marcus Jarwin Manalo as president as the federation intensifies its push for the country’s first Olympic gold medal in boxing. Manalo, 39, succeeds former Antipolo congressman Roberto Puno, who was elected chairman during ABAP’s annual meeting and

elections held at the Meralco Building in Ortigas.

Former ABAP chief Ricky Vargas, who previously led the federation and now serves as Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president and chairman of the Philippine Basketball Association, was named honorary chairman.

The leadership change comes as Philippine boxing builds on recent international success and sets its sights on major events such as the Asian Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Manalo previously served as ABAP secretary general and executive director from 2021 to 2025

LIPA City, Batangas—Jeonghyeon Kang overcame an early stumble and barely survived a late scare to seize control of the ICTSI Philippine Ladies Masters, carding a 71 and hanging to a one-stroke lead after Thursday’s blustery second round at Summit Point Golf and Country Club here. One shot behind first-round leader Yunseo Lee at the start of the day, Kang bogeyed No. 2 to briefly slide backward before responding with birdies on the next two holes. From there, she steadied herself as gusts strengthened and the heat further baked the greens. Her composed shotmaking stood in sharp contrast to the unraveling of erstwhile contenders, allowing Kang to build what appeared to be a comfortable cushion midway through the round. But just when she seemed to have the course and conditions figured out, Kang faltered at the par-3 17th, where a wind-blown tee shot found

and has been part of the national boxing program as a mental performance coach and sports psychologist since 2013. He also served as team leader during the Tokyo Olympics campaign.

Joining Manalo in the new leadership are Philippine Aquatics Inc. president Michael Angelo “Miko” Vargas as vice president and former Northern Samar congressman Atty. Raul Daza as vice chairman.

Two-time Olympic medalist Nesthy Petecio is the lone female member of the board of trustees. She is joined by San Miguel Corporation sports director and Gilas Pilipinas team manager Alfrancis Chua, Meralco senior vice president and former BCDA president Atty. Arnel Casanova, former Department of Education assistant secretary Atty. Emilio Jose Abelita Jr., former Cagayan de Oro mayor Atty. Oscar Moreno, former Baguio City mayor Reinaldo Bautista Jr., and businessman Mark Burgos.

Vargas said the new board reflects a balance of experience and fresh perspectives, with a strong focus on grassroots development.

“This diverse group of experienced leaders and new voices shares a clear vision: building a sustainable national pool of boxing talent through robust grassroots programs,” Vargas said. “Under the leadership of Chairman Puno and President Marcus Manalo, the future of ABAP looks bright and full of promise.”

Puno echoed the optimism, saying the federation remains firmly committed to its long-standing Olympic goal.

a greenside bunker. She failed to get up-and-down and walked off with a double bogey.

The mishap erased a three-stroke cushion, leaving Kang at 138 for a shaky one-shot edge heading into the final round of the $200,000 event.

“I just didn’t mind the wind,” Kang said through an interpreter. “It was actually windier yesterday, so I was a bit more comfortable today.”

Still, the late stumble served as a reminder of how quickly conditions could turn at Summit Point. Kang said she would welcome the comfort of familiar company in the final pairing.

“Playing with a friend in the final round would make me feel a little bit comfortable,” added Kang, who earned her first professional win back home in 2024.

Pressing her from behind are Yeonseo Hwang and Taiwanese Ching Huang, who surged into contention

Vongchaisit banks on hot putting, grabs PH golf lead

By Randy M. Caluag

THAILAND’S Sarut Vongchaisit

leaned on his spectacular putting all-day long to take a one-shot lead after carding a four-under-par 68 in the opening round of the Philippine Golf Championship presented by the Philippine Sports Commission on Thursday at the East Course of Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. Vongchaisit sank six birdies against two bogeys despite blustery conditions, with most of his scoring coming from mid-range putts in the Asian Tour event backed by BingoPlus.

“All my birdies came from midrange putts, so my putter was kind of hot today,” said Vongchaisit, who is seeking his first Asian Tour title.

As the first-round leader, Vongchaisit earned a $10,000 cash prize from Wack Wack Golf and Country Club for posting the day’s lowest score. He received the award from club president Benjamin Abalos Sr., vice president Leana Carmona and director Pablo Soon.

Starting on the back nine in the morning wave, the Thai golfer birdied Nos. 11, 13 and 18 before winds intensified later in the round. He added birdies on Nos. 1, 4 and 8 on the front nine, offset by bogeys on Nos. 3 and 6.

Despite the challenging conditions, Vongchaisit was pleased with his start in the $500,000 tournament sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the National Golf Association of the Philippines.

“I’m feeling good. I just stayed patient and put any bad shots behind me,” he said. “It was definitely tough out there with the wind, especially on the back nine. This course is tight, so there’s a lot of rescue shots off the tee.”

“My goal this year is to win on the Asian Tour and hopefully earn a spot in LIV,” he added.

American Charles Porter and South Koreans Jeunghun Wang and Wooyoung Cho are tied for second through fourth after matching threeunder-par 69s. Chinese Taipei’s Hung Chien Yao and Wang Wei-Hsuan, Australians Kevin Yuan and Travis Smyth, and American Marcus Plunkett are bunched next at two-under 70.

“I’m happy with the score,” said the 6-foot-9 Porter, who had six birdies and three bogeys. “I had to plot my way around this place. The wind was tricky, and chipping out of the rough was really tough.”

Filipinos Keanu Jahns and Fidel Concepcion are among those tied for 10th to 21st place after opening with even-par 70s in the first Asian Tour event hosted by the Philippines for the second consecutive year, supported by the MVP Sports Foundation and Bingo Plus.

“It was very tough. You have to play very conservatively,” said Concepcion. “The key here is hitting fairways so you can control the ball. The greens are tricky — that’s really the biggest defense of this golf course.”

with matching 139 totals.

Hwang produced the day’s best round, a 67 highlighted by three birdies over the final four holes, while Huang stayed steady with a 69 marked by three straight birdies from No. 9 for the second straight day.

Hwang, a 22-year-old threeyear pro, rocketed from joint 19th with a blistering start, birdieing four of her first 11 holes before briefly stalling with back-to-back bogeys from No. 12.

She recovered in emphatic fashion, closing with three birdies in her final four holes to vault into a share of second at five-under.

“My putting wasn’t good in the first round, but today it was,” said Hwang. “I’m confident for tomorrow.” Huang, meanwhile, looms as a major threat after winning the LPGT Midlands leg in 2018 under similarly blustery conditions, once again showcasing calm precision when accuracy mattered most.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

BSP expected to cut rates as January inflation hit 2%

By Thony Rose Lesaca and Othel V. Campos

THE manageable 2 percent inflation in January 2026 may prompt the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to cut interest rates by another 25 basis points at its Feb. 19 meeting, according to economists.

pressures remain manageable. He noted that the uptick was within expectations due in part to base effects.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort also projected a 25-basis point reduction, pointing to weaker domestic growth and relatively stable foreign exchange rates.

Inflation in January 2026

RCR revenues rose to P11b in 2025 PH eyes second-fastest Internet in ASEAN

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippine government secured a P8.1-billion (21.6 billion yen) second supplemental loan from Japan to rehabilitate the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) system.

The agreement was formalized through an exchange of notes between Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya.

The project is a component of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Build Better More infrastructure initiative, which aims to restore the rail line to its original designed condition to ease commuting in the National Capital Region. Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the rehabilitation would be a huge boost to the system’s steadily increasing ridership and reflects growing public trust in its reliability.

“Our goal is to provide a better commuting experience that respects the time and safety of every passenger, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities. When commuting becomes faster and safer, commuters gain back precious hours that can be well spent with their families and loved ones,” Lopez said during the signing ceremony. The project aims to improve the efficiency and safety of the line. Lazaro said MRT-3 plays a crucial role in daily life and described the project as a direct investment in the productivity and quality of life of the people.

government’s 2.0 percent to 4.0 percent target range, analysts believe the need to support economic growth will outweigh the slight uptick in prices.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. senior adviser Jonathan Ravelas said he expects the BSP to proceed with a 25-basis point policy rate cut in the upcoming Monetary Board meeting.

“With inflation manageable and growth needing support, I expect the BSP to cut policy rates by 25 bps on Feb. 19 and another 25 bps within [the first half of 2026],” Ravelas said.

“It is important to note that the headline inflation at 2 percent is back to the lower end of the BSP target inflation range of 2 percent to 4 percent, after 10 straight months below 2 percent, but still considered relatively benign. [This] could still support monetary easing measures such as cuts in local policy rates and banks’ reserve requirement ratio, as part of the policy priorities to boost economic growth,” Ricafort

Inflation in December 2025

Food inflation in January 2026 Data

Security Bank research head and chief economist Angelo Taningco said the inflation print indicates that price

BCDA evaluates P15-b

By Othel V. Campos

STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is reviewing an unsolicited public-private partnership proposal worth P15 billion from Korea Water Resources Corp. (K-Water) and Maynilad Water Services Inc. to build a water and wastewater management system in New Clark City in Tarlac province. BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said Thursday

that the PPP Center has declared the proposal complete after multiple submissions from the proponents, which officially starts the formal evaluation period.

Under existing PPP rules, the BCDA has 10 days to decide whether to accept the proposal and enter negotiations, a process that could last up to 80 days.

“Yesterday, I received notice from the PPP Center that the unsolicited proposal of Korean K-Water for wastewa-

ter management in Clark City is already complete,” Bingcang said. The project aims to provide integrated water supply and wastewater treatment services for the emerging hub. It is designed to expand the current capacity of 30 million liters per day to roughly 200 million liters per day once the site reaches full development.

The venture will be structured as a partnership where South Korea-based K-Water holds 40-percent equity to

LUFTHANSA Technik plans to invest at least $400 million to expand its aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul operations in Clark Freeport, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority said Thursday.

The project is expected to strengthen the aviation services sector of the Philippines and attract a major foreign direct investment.

BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said negotiations with the German aviation services company are ongoing, with both parties hoping to conclude talks by the first quarter.

“They submitted their proposal in January. They conducted surveys, ground assessments, and spent on

pre-development activities. We are now negotiating the final terms,” Bingcang said. The planned expansion involves the construction of new hangars in Clark that can accommodate wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger plane. Construction is expected to begin once negotiations are completed, with the project targeted for completion within two to three years.

Bingcang said the proposed project would likely be covered by a long-term contract of about 25 years. Lufthansa Technik has not disclosed whether it intends to fully transfer its existing Manila operations to Clark or maintain dual operations. Othel V. Campos

comply with foreign ownership limits. Maynilad Water Services Inc. is projected to hold 30 percent, while the BCDA will invest capital for the remaining 30 percent stake offered by the partnership. Bingcang said the collaboration between K-Water and Maynilad grew from previous feasibility studies regarding water infrastructure in the Clark area. He said the proponents are prepared to increase their investment as the project moves forward.

THE government plans to extend all regional and provincial runways to a minimum of 2,100 meters to accommodate larger aircraft and reduce domestic airfares for high-demand tourist hubs, Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said Thursday. The policy requires all new airports to meet the 2,100-meter minimum, while existing runways falling short of the requirement will be lengthened unless restricted by topographical constraints.

Lopez said the initiative aims to prepare the country’s infrastructure for bigger jet aircraft.

Apart from infrastructure expansion, the Department of Transportation and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) are prioritizing the night-rating of tourist airports.

The program installs lighting systems to allow for night and early morning flights, providing travelers with more scheduling options.

“We are prioritizing our tourist airports. Because when an airport is night-rated, our countrymen can travel at night, early in the morning, and that is what we usually call a redeye flight and in practice, the fare is cheaper there,” Lopez said.

The push for lower costs follows a request from Lopez last year for Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific to reduce one-way fares to Siargao. Prices for that route had reached P17,500 but were targeted for a reduction to about P11,700, but the lowest available one-way tickets currently sit at P3,908. Darwin G. Amojelar

Local shares, peso advance despite higher inflation data

THE local bourse climbed higher Thursday, recovering from the previous day’s losses despite a higherthan-expected January inflation rate.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index closed at 6,382.04, up 9.09 points, or 0.14 percent, while the broader allshares index ended at 3,587.83, up 32.83 points, or 0.92 percent.

The peso also strengthened, closing at 58.69 to the U.S. dollar Thursday from 58.97 on Wednesday.

“Market sentiment remained cautious as investors digested the inflation data. Attention turned to the potential impact of these figures on the upcoming Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas policy meeting,” said Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp.

The inflation rate accelerated to 2 percent in January, the fastest pace in 11 months, fueled mainly by higher costs for utilities and housing rentals.

Sectors ended mixed. Services, holding firms and property climbed by 0.57 percent, 0.47 percent and 0.18 percent, respectively. Conversely, mining and oil declined by 1.09 percent, while industrial and financial shares fell by 0.38 percent and 0.23 percent, respectively.

Trading activity weakened as value turnover reached P5.31 billion. The market closed with 98 gainers and 90 decliners, while 73 stocks remained unchanged. Foreign investors turned net sellers, with outflows at P22.65 million.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was the day’s top index gainer, advancing 6.87 percent to P14.94, while Converge ICT Solutions Inc. was at the bottom, declining 3.36 percent to P14.40. Jenniffer B. Austria

RCR revenues rose to P11b in 2025

By Jenniffer B. Austria

RL COMMERCIAL REIT Inc., the real estate investment trust of Robinsons Land Corp., reported unaudited 2025 revenues of P11.08 billion, up 35 percent year-on-year, led by strategic asset infusions.

For the fourth quarter, RCR posted unaudited revenues of P3.42 billion, a 49 percent increase from the same period a year earlier, the company disclosed Thursday to the stock exchange. Along with recent asset infusions over the past two years, RCR benefited from a high portfolio occupancy rate of 96 percent.

“RCR continues to benefit from the upside of mall rental income from the 2024 asset infusion of two offices and 11 malls, together with the 2025 infusion of nine malls,” RCR president and chief executive Jericho Go said. “With a higher proportion of malls in the portfolio, RCR is well positioned to capture the advantage of the ever-

Sociedad Puerto Industrial de Aguadulce, a joint venture subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services Inc. and PSA International, takes delivery of two super post-Panamax quay cranes and three hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes. The new equipment enhances Puerto Aguadulce’s ability to serve larger vessels and support growing cargo flows through Colombia’s Pacific gateway. Manufactured by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., the quay cranes are the largest in the country and will significantly expand the terminal’s handling capability.

resilient consumer while the office performance remains vibrant.”

Based on the company’s strong financial performance, the RCR board declared a fourth-quarter 2025 regular cash dividend of P0.1112 per share. This brings RCR’s total dividend declaration to P7.54 billion, representing more than 90 percent of its unaudited distributable income.

The dividends are payable March 2, 2026, to shareholders of record as of Feb. 20, 2026. RCR’s policy is to distribute at least 90 percent of its distributable income, in compliance with the REIT Law.

During the latest rebalancing by the Philippine Stock Exchange Inc.,

RCR was included in the PSE Index, placing it among the most liquid and well-capitalized companies on the local bourse. The inclusion is expected to increase the company’s visibility among institutional and passive investors. As of the end of 2025, RCR held a diversified portfolio of 38 properties, composed of 21 malls and 17 office buildings. Its parent firm, RLC, maintains a pipeline for potential future infusions, including over 1.1 million square meters of mall gross leasable area, more than 250,000 square meters of office GLA, nearly 300,000 square meters of logistics space, and approximately 4,000 hotel rooms.

GERI launches P7b Villa Scala in Batangas township

GLOBAL-ESTATE Resorts Inc., a subsidiary of Megaworld Corp., is developing Villa Scala, a P7-billion residential village within the 116-hectare Nascala Coast township in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The 18-hectare project will feature 217 residential lots with views of Nasugbu Bay, the West Philippine Sea, and nearby mountain ranges. Lot sizes range from 407 to 1,081 square meters. Construction is scheduled to begin next year, with completion targeted by 2032, the company said Thursday in a statement.

GERI described Villa Scala as a nature-oriented coastal community inspired by Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It aims to cater to buyers seeking lowdensity, resort-style living in a premium seaside location. The village is situated within Nasugbu’s established coastal corridor, an area known for luxury resorts and private beach communities, positioning the project as an exclusive residential address south of Metro Manila.

A central feature of the development is the Villa Scala Clubhouse, which will be built on a cliffside near the beach. Designed with Mediterranean-inspired architecture, the clubhouse will include an infinity pool, function rooms, a fitness center, and open spaces overlooking the sea. Nearly 40 percent of the village will be allocated to landscaped open spaces and parks, and roads will be up to 15 meters wide. To preserve scenic views, the project will implement underground cabling for power and telecommunications.

GERI said future residents will have access to a nearby marina intended for yachting, sailing, and other marine leisure activities, supporting the township’s positioning as a maritime destination. Nascala Coast is accessible from Metro Manila via major expressways, with connectivity expected to improve further once the Cavite–Batangas Expressway is completed, according to the company. Jenniffer B. Austria

continued operation of unauthorized investment-taking activities, the commission finds the issuance of a cease and desist order is necessary to prevent fraud, injury or harm to the public and financial consumers,” the order read.

Based on the SEC investigation, FCIG agents were actively soliciting investments both through online platforms and in Gamu, Isabela. The SEC described the scheme as a high-yield investment opportunity requiring a minimum investment of $500 and allowing investments of up to $3,000.

The scheme requires investors to maintain a GCash account to withdraw purported earnings and make additional investments. Upon joining, investors are granted access to the Yepbit trading platform, where the alleged investment activities take place.

“All told, this office is firmly convinced, based on substantial evidence, that FCIG, an unregistered entity, together with its agents and/or solicitors who lack the requisite license or authority to sell or offer securities... are engaged in unauthorized investment activity, which resembles a Ponzi scheme that must be immediately restrained,” the order read.

PH eyes second-fastest Internet in ASEAN

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) aims to make the Philippines the second-fastest and most affordable provider of digital services in Southeast Asia by the end of the Marcos administration in 2028.

Speaking at the 2026 Telecommunications Summit, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the goal reflects the president’s ambition for the country to rank either first or second in the region before his term concludes. Aguda said that while progress has been made in internet speed and coverage, the Philippines continues to lag

behind several ASEAN neighbors.

The digital divide remains a significant hurdle to this goal. In Metro Manila, nearly seven of 10 households have internet access, but the figure drops to three or four out of 10 in many parts of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

“This is not just a digital divide. It

is an opportunity divide. Without connectivity, there is also no access to online education, digital jobs, e-commerce, financial services, and even basic government services,” Aguda said.

To address these gaps, the government has introduced what it calls “The ultimate digital glow-up roadmap of the Philippines.”

A central pillar of the strategy is the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which seeks to remove long-standing barriers to entry in the telecommunications industry through smart regulation.

Aguda said smart regulation is not anti-business but rather a way to enable scaling by managing limited resources like spectrum and infrastructure sharing. He estimated that if the Philippines matches the telecommunications infrastructure of Malaysia, the country could see a GDP boost of up to 1.1 percent.

“Infrastructure sharing alone means lower costs, faster expansion, and wider coverage. Smart regula-

Razon-Pacquiao venture to invest in Cotabato utility

IGNITE Power & Energy Corp. has submitted a proposal to invest up to P10 billion in South Cotabato Electric Cooperative II to modernize its operations and lower electricity rates, company officials said Thursday. The firm is a joint venture between Primelectric Holdings Inc. owned by businessman Enrique Razon Jr. and MP Holdings Inc. owned by former Senator Manny Pacquiao. Primelectric holds a 70-percent stake in the venture, while MP Holdings owns 30 percent.

Primelectric president and chief executive Roel Castro confirmed that Ignite Power recently delivered the joint venture proposal to the cooperative, known as SOCOTECO II.

The cooperative serves General Santos City, Sarangani province and the municipalities of Tupi and Polomolok in South Cotabato.

“They just received our proposal. If successful this will be our fourth DU to extend our assistance to bring better services to their existing customers,” he said. The investment aims to address chronic regional utility issues including frequent power outages, low voltage, aging infrastructure and high system loss.

Castro said the group intends to lower consumer power rates to levels that are among the most competitive in the Philippines.

The partnership with Pacquiao was led by the former senator’s vision for regional development and job generation. During a briefing with Pacquiao, Castro said a world-class utility is essential to attracting further investment to the area.

If the deal proceeds, SOCOTECO II will join Primelectric’s existing portfolio of distribution utilities. The company operates More Electric and Power Corp. in Iloilo City, Negros Power and Electric Corp. in Negros Occidental and Bohol Light Co. Inc. in Tagbilaran City.

Alena Mae S. Flores

ACEN takes full control of 1-GW India renewable energy projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ACEN Corp, through its subsidiary ACEN Renewables International Pte. Ltd. (ACRI), has acquired full control of a 1,059-megawatt direct current (819 MWac) diversified renewable energy portfolio in India.

The transaction strengthens the Philippine energy firm’s presence in India and supports its goal to scale renewable projects across the Asia-Pacific region.

ACEN said in a disclosure to the stock exchange ACRI acquired a 50-percent voting interest in Unlimited Renewables Holdings BV (URH) from UPC India Pte Ltd.

The deal gives ACRI 100-percent ownership of URH. The companies completed the sale of 2,724 common shares of URH, representing 50 percent of the entity’s total outstanding common shares, on Feb. 4, 2026.

The portfolio includes three projects under construction and advanced development in Rajasthan and Karnataka. It also features a pipeline of nearly 7 gigawatts of renewable energy projects across India.

“India is a core market for ACEN’s international growth, and this transaction reflects our long-term confidence in the

country’s renewable energy sector,” ACEN International group chief investments officer and chief executive Patrice Clausse said.

“With full ownership of this platform, we are well-positioned to accelerate development, optimize our portfolio, and continue delivering clean, reliable power at scale,” he said.

ACEN remains bullish on India’s long-term potential, noting its 500-GW renewable energy capacity target by 2030.

This goal is supported by about 50 GW of annual capacity tenders that allow developers to secure 25-year contracts.

The company cited India’s predictable regulatory framework and a growing domestic manufacturing base for solar cells and wind turbine components.

UPC Renewables has been a longtime partner for ACEN, with previous collaborations in the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia.

“We are proud of what we have built with ACEN and UPC in India and across the region,” UPC Renewables India chief executive Alok Nigam said.

“As ACEN takes full ownership, I look forward to continuing the growth of this portfolio and making a meaningful contribution to India’s clean energy transition,” he said.

tion is not anti-business. It allows business to scale. But reform alone is not enough,” Aguda said.

The second component of the roadmap is the National Digital Connectivity Plan (NDCP). As the nation’s first infrastructure master plan for digital connectivity, it is expected to bring in P5.6 trillion in investment by aligning policy and execution across various sectors.

Aguda said the NDCP treats digital connectivity as a strategic national priority with a vision of providing fast and reliable service to unserved and underserved areas.

He said the success of these initiatives depends on a real partnership with the telecommunications industry to ensure a structural, long-term “glow-up” felt by every Filipino.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2026

DPWH fast-tracks Calbiga Bridge retrofitting

PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the DPWH Regional Office 8 to prioritize the renovation of the Calbiga Bridge in Samar, which serves as a critical artery, connecting the residents of Calbiga directly to Tacloban City, Leyte.

This follows the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure that old bridges across the country are safe and that sufficient funds are allocated for their necessary strengthening.

According to Dizon, the bridge plan will be reviewed by the DPWH Central Office to ensure that funds for the retrofitting of the said bridge were not skimped on.

“Let’s just do it properly, right. Don’t skimp,” Dizon said.

He is also speeding up the strengthening of the bridge like what is being done on the San Juanico Bridge.

The DPWH targets to immediately restore traffic flow to normal and raise the load limit of the Calbiga Bridge so that motorists will no longer have difficulty with the one-way traffic scheme and the implementation of the 15-ton load restriction by October 2025.

Meanwhile, the DPWH is is expediting the construction and inventory of the remaining schools and classrooms nationwide to make learning more convenient for students.

“‘That’s the problem, the national [government] really needs to be more proactive in finding unfinished [projects], then find a solution on how to finish them. Because sometimes when you’re thinking about a new project, there are still many unfinished ones. Isn’t it, they just pile on top of each other,” Dizon said.

“The best way forward is to take an inventory of all those [unfinished school buildings]. There are many of them all over the country. Take an inventory and prioritize funding for that,” he added.

No family ‘left behind’ in NSCR Project

AS THE government speeds up the construction of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) guarantees that no family displaced by the project will be left behind.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the government is expediting the construction of 16,725 housing units for the relocation of families affected by the construction of the 147-kilometer NSCR System.

“The President said that the construction of relocation sites for those affected by the NSCR should be completed immediately. Aside from the housing units, the DOTr is also funding the compensation and livelihood of the relocated families,” Lopez said.

Families affected by the NSCR project are beginning to move into their new homes. In Biñan, Laguna, 80 units at ‘The Meadows Housing Project’ were officially turned over to families this Tuesday.

This progress mirrors recent success in San Fernando, Pampanga, where 170 units have already been occupied.

The DOTr confirms that this is just the beginning, with a steady stream of housing turnovers expected throughout the year.

SCVASI expands bulk liquid logistics

2GO Special Container and ValueAdded Services, Inc. (SCVASI), the country’s leading ISO tank and cold chain logistics provider, is expanding its ISO tank fleet to strengthen its capability to move coconut-based products and biofuels for export markets.

The company said the additional units are expected to increase SCVASI’s ISO tank operations by at least 40 percent.

SCVASI’s recent acquisition of new ISO tanks last September supports the expected rise in demand as coconut-based exports continue to grow in major international markets. Reliable bulk liquid logistics are essential for exporters preparing to scale up shipments of coconut oils, oleochemicals, and other liquid derivatives.

The company’s expanded capacity ensures that food-grade

liquids, chemicals, and temperaturesensitive derivatives are transported safely across domestic routes and international gateways.

The Philippines is one of the world’s top producers and exporters of coconut products. Industry and government data show the country as a major global source of coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, oleochemicals, desiccated coconut, and coconut water. These products serve key markets in the United States, Europe, China, and Southeast Asia and are used in food manufacturing, personal care, cosmetics, industrial applications, and renewable energy.

With global demand for coconutderived oils and ingredients remaining strong, SCVASI’s investment is aligned with the operational needs of exporters who rely on secure bulkliquid logistics, cold-chain handling, and consistent shipping capacity.

Recent developments in trade and market access are also expected to improve the competitiveness of Philippine coconut exports, which may contribute to higher volumes in 2026 and beyond.

Planned increases in the mandated coconut methyl ester biodiesel blend are expected to drive higher production and trade activity across the biofuels sector. This will raise demand for both coconut-based exports and essential raw materials, creating greater need for reliable ISO tank logistics to support bulk liquid imports and exports.

In response, SCVASI is scaling up its ISO tank operations to meet increasing demand from coconut processors and biofuel producers. The expanded fleet strengthens the logistics infrastructure required to support domestic distribution and international trade.

“SCVASI has been one of the pioneers of ISO tank and cold chain services in the Philippines. We will continue to lead the industry by investing in solutions that help coconut farmers, processors, and exporters move their products efficiently across the country and around the world,” Gener Lim, president of 2GO SCVASI said.

With its specialized assets and technical expertise, SCVASI is well positioned to support a wide range of import and export requirements. Coconut oils, oleochemicals, and other bulk liquids require strict foodgrade, chemical-grade, and safety handling. ISO tank logistics provide the secure and stable transport needed for these products, making SCVASI a vital partner in the export supply chain.

CIAC secures silver Anvil Award

to strengthening partnerships with global industry leaders, positioning Clark as a premier aviation and logistics complex, and advancing its role as a leading aviation hub in the Philippines.

The Anvil Awards are presented annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) and are regarded as the country’s symbol of excellence in public relations, honoring outstanding programs and communication tools.

commitment

“Following the orders of our President Marcos and Sec. Lopez, DOTr will not abandon all those we will relocate. We will be with you every step of the way and we will ensure that your life is made easier throughout the relocation process,” DOTr Assistant Secretary Irish Calaguas said.

Biñan City Mayor Angelo Alonte said “The Meadows Housing Project is not just a house but a symbol of hope, dignity, and a better future for our countrymen.

“ To our beneficiaries, let us take care of it and we will ensure that we take care of you as long as you are here in the city of Biñan,” Alonte said.

Aside from ‘The Meadows’ housing project which has 2,030 units in 26 buildings, the DOTr, in collaboration with LGUs and partner agencies, is

also completing other relocation sites. These include Sining Residence II with 1,920 units, Sining Residence I with 528 units, Rizal Ville with 2,130 units, and Naic, Cavite with 5,452 units.

In the North segment of the NSCR, the DOTr is partnering with the National Housing Authority (NHA) for three relocation sites in Pampanga. Meanwhile, the agency is targeting to relocate 4,515 informal settler families (ISFs) in Angeles City and San Fernando City in Pampanga and in Calumpit, Bulacan. The 147-kilometer NSCR System will traverse from Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna, reducing travel time from CRK to Calamba to less than 2.5 hours from the usual 4 hours via land travel.

It will feature the country’s first Airport Express Service, which will connect CRK to Makati in less than an hour and will connect CRK to Alabang in less than 1 hour 15 mins. It will also feature the country’s first ‘Through Train Interoperations’ with the Metro Manila Subway. The 35-station rail system is expected to generate 350,000 jobs during construction and operations, while serving almost a million passengers daily at full operations. The partial operations for the NSCR’s Valenzuela to Malolos segment is set to start by December 2027, while the Malolos to Clark segment is targeted to be operational by October 2028. Darwin G. Amojelar

Airbus inaugurates new regional logistics hub in Singapore

AIRBUS Helicopters has inaugurated its new regional logistics hub in Singapore, marking a major expansion of its support and services footprint in Asia-Pacific.

This new centre of excellence is designed to streamline the supply chain, providing faster and more reliable parts distribution to customers across the 21 countries and territories it serves.

“This new regional logistics hub marks a pivotal milestone, positioning Singapore at the heart of our global support network,” Vincent Dubrule,

CIAC president and chief executive officer Jojit Alcazar

senior vice president Asia-Pacific at

Airbus Helicopters said.

“Establishing this capability here is more than expanding our footprint. It is about building a logistics supply chain that is agile. This hub represents a long-term investment in our customers’ mission success, delivering faster, reliable, and predictable support across AsiaPacific well into the future,” he added. The Singapore hub serves as the flagship regional logistics network that includes additional parts distribution centres in Hong Kong and Perth, Australia. Together, these sites support 12 customer centres equipped with dedicated material support and logistics teams managing spares, repairs, aircraft on ground (AOG) and HCare programmes. With nearly 2,000 sqm, the facility features four loading bays and houses more than 20,000 part numbers for new spares as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). To maximise efficiency, the logistics hub is equipped with four vertical lift modules (VLM) – an automated, high density storage system which utilises a central extractor and vertical column of trays to store and retrieve items, delivering them directly to an operator’s designated access point. The integration of VLM technology allows

124 YEARS: FROM PAPER TRAILS TO DIGITAL TRIUMPHS

SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

BOC marks 124th anniversary with new era of efficiency

By Bianca Deligero

THE Bureau of Customs marked its 124th anniversary in January 2026 by reporting recordbreaking revenue and a shift toward full digitalization, positioning the agency as a central pillar of the national economy.

The bureau collected P934.4 billion in 2025, surpassing the previous year’s performance by more than P17 billion.

This milestone was achieved despite global challenges, including fluctuating commodity prices and shifts in import volumes. Officials attributed the growth to increased operational efficiency and an aggressive crackdown on those attempting to bypass trade laws.

In addition to revenue gains, the agency intensified its border protection efforts. Bureau of Customs personnel conducted over 1,000 enforcement operations in 2025, resulting in the seizure of smuggled goods valued at about P61.7 billion.

These operations targeted high-value items and goods that threaten community safety, such as illegal drugs and counterfeit medicines.

Recent enforcement actions have continued into the new year. In late January 2026, the bureau shut down a major illegal cigarette factory in Pampanga, where authorities discovered millions of pesos worth of unlicensed machinery and fake tax stamps.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, who assumed the post in mid2025, has prioritized the modernization of the agency. Nearly all core processes are now digital, a move intended to reduce human error and eliminate unauthorized negotiations.

“Technology is essential, but the heart of the agency remains its people,” Nepomuceno said,

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

GMA Gala 2025 earns Digital Spotlight Award at TikTok Live Awards

THE 2025 GMA Gala, held to mark GMA Network’s 75th anniversary and Sparkle GMA Artist Center’s 30th year, received the Digital Spotlight Award at the TikTok Live Awards 2025 after generating 1 billion online views. The TikTok Live Awards recognize creators and talents who have made a notable impact on the platform. The gala drew wide online engagement, reaching audiences beyond the Philippines while highlighting its fundraising goal.

Sparkle senior manager and head of PR, Events, and Digital Roche Tuazon-Chavez, together with Sparkle PR manager Caiel Pajarillo, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. The event was attended by artists, personalities, and public relations practitioners active in the digital space. Beyond its online reach, the GMA Gala raised P2.5 million for the GMA Kapuso Foundation, supporting the network’s social initiatives.

How a teenage contender edged out frontrunners at Miss World PH

US singer-songwriter Barry Manilow on Wednesday announced the cancellation of his upcoming run of shows in Las Vegas but assured fans he was recovering well from surgery to remove lung cancer.

The 82-year-old crooner, known for 1970s hits “Copacabana” and “Mandy,” revealed a lung cancer diagnosis in December and planned to have an operation to treat it.

“I’m doing great and recovering very well after my surgery,” he said in a post on Instagram Wednesday.

“With my doctor’s guidance and recommendation, however, we have decided to postpone my residency dates at Westgate Las Vegas from Feb. 12 to 21 so I can stay focused on healing and getting ready for the tour that’s kicking off at the end of February,” he added.

Born and raised in New York, Manilow saw his biggest success in the 1970s, and has since continued to perform and record, with frequent residencies in Las Vegas. AFP

QUEZON City’s Asia

Rose Simpson was crowned Miss World Philippines 2026 after standing out for her advocacy work and a composed showing in the final questionand-answer round. She also won the Beauty with a Purpose award, the pageant’s main advocacy pillar, which strengthened her path to the crown.

“Social media, while it can have many benefits, helps us promote different businesses or organizations that help us succeed. However, I think it has also been used as a crutch for our creativity and our social skills. So let’s use social media responsibly,” was her winning response to the question of whether social media has helped or hurt society.

Simpson outshone 23 candidates to win the title and was crowned by Miss World Asia 2025 Krishnah Marie Gravidez during finals held Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. The coronation night was graced by Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata Chuangsri as special guest of honor and joined by Miss World

Organization CEO Julia Morley and Universal Woman 2025 Ivana Carolina

Other titleholders were Marizza Delgado Universal Woman Philippines 2026, Valerie Pawid West as Miss Global Philippines 2026, Lorejo as Miss Tourism International Philippines 2026, and Lorraine Yago Ojimba as Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International Philippines 2026. Anne De Mesa of Manila and Gabriel Galapia Pampanga were named First Princess and Second Princess, respectively.

Simpson is a Filipino-American born in Hobbs, New Mexico, who grew up in a family of dancers and has lived most of her life in the Philippines. At 15, she was crowned New Mexico Teen USA 2023 before winning Miss World Philippines–Quezon City 2026. She co-wrote and illustrated the children’s book Animal Sounds of Praise which placed second at the National Fine Arts Competition in Florida, and was part of the “Simpson Tribe” dancing team that earned four yeses on Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5. She later turned her passion for dance into a mental health advocacy through SED, a sports and dance initiative that includes community outreach in Roxas City, Capiz.

Christina Vanhefflin places fifth in Miss Intercontinental 2025

CHRISTINA Vanhefflin of the Philippines was named fourth runner-up at the recent 53rd Miss Intercontinental 2025 pageant held in Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt. Varvara Yakovenko won and succeeded Miss Intercontinental 2024 Maria Cepero . The 18-year-old model and

“

Random Talk Kate Adajar

’LL send you the links later.”

How Yassi said yes to clarity

By Nickie Wang

LIFE moves fast. Between work, errands, and endless scrolling on social media, free time can slip away before you even notice. A new trend is changing how people spend their downtime: hobbymaxing. And TikTok is leading the way.

Hobbymaxing takes your favorite hobbies to the next level. Want to learn the guitar? Strum with a plan, track your progress, and join a community of fellow musicians. Into fitness? Set goals, try new routines, and celebrate every small win. Even cooking, photography, or gaming become deeply rewarding when approached with focus.

Experts say hobbymaxing reduces stress, boosts mental health, and delivers a sense of accomplishment that work alone cannot provide. It recharges energy, unlocks creativity, and builds confidence.

Hbbymaxing is intentional and gives you control of your free time. It’s about getting the most out of your free time, improving skills, and enjoying different hobbies. Trying multiple activities can reduce stress, spark creativity, and give a sense of accomplishment that balances the demands of modern life.

When Yassi Pressman said this during a pocket interview for her teleserye comeback via ABS-CBN’s Roja months ago, I smiled, nodded, and didn’t expect much, knowing how busy she is.

To backtrack, Yassi spoke about meditation as something that helped her achieve her current calm-and-collected vibe. When I asked what kind she practiced, guided or free-flowing, she smiled and said it was guided. When I probed further about which one she listens to, that’s when she casually offered to share her guides.

A few days later, I received a message. Through publicity and social media head Eric John Salut, Yassi double-checked my contact info—details she had also asked me to write down on a small piece of paper she carefully kept. True to her word, Yassi sent over the exact meditation links she had been listening to. It was a small act but a meaningful one, a proof of her mindfulness. She meant what she said.

What struck me during the conversation with Yassi was how thoughtfully she spoke about her career updates, but more importantly, the calm and grounded way she carried herself. She spoke with ease, was warm, attentive, and took her time. It was the kind of presence that makes you feel like you’re being listened to, not rushed.

When I recently watched Yassi’s podcast conversation with Life Coach Pia Acevedo on YouTube, it felt like a continuation of her grounded (and renewed) energy, a showcase of her sense of focus. I found myself taking mental notes.

Here are the ten random insights that stayed with me:

1. Clarity, for Yassi, is something we return to by slowing down and reconnecting with breath, body, and presence. “I refueled my heart last year by going back to work,” Yassi said.

2. Yassi’s decision to try and get certified in scuba diving is proof of courage. Sometimes, clarity is found in bravery by simply choosing to breathe and listening to yourself. Being present is a present.

3. Learning the value of rest and sleep, Yassi emphasizes listening to the body. Rest is a reset.

4. In her world shaped by comparison and the constant influx of comments from strangers, clarity comes from knowing which opinions deserve weight and which ones don’t.

5. Once someone who escaped into constant noise like listening to music, she now finds wisdom in silence—listening to birds, breathing deeply, and allowing herself to simply be. She acted on what her friends said: “You need to meditate.”

6. A real sense of belonging is having people who care enough to tell you the truth, offer tough love, and keep you grounded in reality.

7. The loss of her dad in 2020 reshaped Yassi’s inner life and led her to mental health advocacy, particularly for children and families. Grief can be a change-driver.

8. Through her charity work with children battling cancer, she discovered that service often heightens gratitude and renews hope.

9. Open about how happy she is with her current boyfriend, Yassi raves about healthy love. She said that it is emotional safety paired with accountability—someone who listens, supports, corrects with care, and leads the relationship. She said, “We’ve been together now for two years. It’s lovely. It’s different. He has loved me more than anybody in this world, after my dad. He appreciates me, listens to me, and cares about how I feel. He also corrects me when I’m wrong.”

10. Purpose is shaped through daily presence, repeated acts of care, and choosing what truly refuels the heart.

Sometimes, clarity is something we already know—or something deep within us—waiting patiently for us to return. “Clarity is not something you find, it’s something you come home to,” Coach Pia affirmed.

In an industry that observably rewards noise, speed, and performance, Yassi Pressman’s power lies in presence, consistency, and quiet follow-through. Sometimes, the most telling measure of a person isn’t what they say in public, but what they remember to do days later, when no one is watching. For more details, listen to the interview via One Core Channel on YouTube. Share your random thoughts with the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.

By Nickie Wang

EMIL Allan Capili had spent three decades mastering the restaurant business, overseeing everything from supply chains to construction projects. He was a seasoned professional on track to become CEO, yet the thought of speaking in front of a classroom left him panicked.

“Public speaking was also my fear since high school, so I get nervous whenever I talk in front of a lot of people,” he said. At 43, after 15 years away from school, doubts were relentless. “Kaya ko pa ba mag-aral ulit? At age 43, my memory has not been as sharp as 15 years ago.” For professionals considering going back to school, that fear is common—and according to

branding, and franchising. But excelling at your current job doesn’t always prepare you for the next one.

“The CEO is different from the COO,” Capili said. “The CEO is the visionary, living in the future and responsible for charting the company’s course.” Graduate education helps fill that gap, not by teaching you to do your current job better, but by preparing you for the role you haven’t

yet.

That’s where Smart Prepaid Daily Data fits in. Whether you’re streaming tutorials, scrolling social media, joining an online class, or video calling friends, you can adjust your data to fit your day Plans range from small to large amounts of data for a few days or weeks, so you only use what you need. Subscribing through the Smart App, Smart Online Store, or partner apps is quick, and once active, your data works for 24 hours, letting you explore without interruptions.

Capili’s biggest breakthrough came in a SelfMastery class.

“I realized I had been unhappy at times in my career, almost quitting because work and personal life clashed,” he said. “I learned the two should be aligned, not in conflict.” Going back to school helped him discover frameworks to run a business more effectively— and his personal purpose.

Frankie Cortez, chief of operations at the Office of Civil Defense-Cordillera, said the motivation was urgent. He enrolled in the Executive Master in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management to respond better to escalating climate disasters.

“With climate change and disasters, the timing was perfect,” he said.

consumer behavior, and crises evolve. Cortez learned leadership is earned, not given. “It’s about credibility, authenticity, and earning people’s trust,” he said. He shifted from handling tasks alone to co-creating results with his team.

Both executives said the benefits of going back to school go beyond promotions or higher pay.

“Business frameworks are shortcuts in life,” Capili said. “They let you spot patterns and solutions quickly.” Cortez measures success in partnerships built, lives saved, and communities protected. “I can now better deliver my oath as a public servant,” he said. Their advice to those on the fence: “He who hesitates, loses,” Cortez said. “Learning is an investment in yourself and the future.” Capili added, “A master’s program gives you knowledge and a network of the best, brightest, and most motivated professionals.” Going back to school while working full-time is challenging, but it forces professionals to ask: Am I learning fast enough to stay relevant? Am I building skills for the role I want, not just the one I have? These stories show that reaching the next level depends on embracing growth and new challenges, not age or memory. The most courageous professionals are those who keep learning and expanding their skills.

124 YEARS: FROM PAPER TRAILS TO DIGITAL TRIUMPHS

Bureau of Customs celebrates 124 years of service, reform and trade leadership

By Peter Paul Duran

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) celebrates its 124th founding anniversary today, reaffirming its enduring mandate to protect the nation’s borders, promote legitimate trade and contribute to the country’s economic development.

As one of the oldest government agencies in the Philippines, the BOC’s long legacy is defined by its balancing act between enforcement and facilitation— ensuring compliance with laws while supporting business and trade competitiveness.

In past anniversary celebrations, the Bureau has underscored its role as a frontline agency not only in revenue generation but also in shaping the country’s global trade position. These occasions have highlighted the BOC’s push toward digitalization, transparency, and stronger public trust—hallmarks of its ongoing transformation.

As it enters its 124th year, the bureau continues to invest in modern systems that streamline customs procedures, reduce transaction costs for traders, and eliminate opportunities for corruption. Ongoing digital reforms aim to make cargo processing faster, smarter, and more efficient while maintaining robust enforcement protocols.

Led by Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, the BOC also emphasizes its growing partnerships with other government agencies, private stakeholders, and

international counterparts. Such collaborations enhance border security, improve compliance frameworks, and strengthen the fight against smuggling and other illicit activities.

Behind these efforts are thousands of customs officers, personnel and service partners working across ports and offices nationwide. Their dedication to safeguarding national interests and facilitating economic movement remains at the heart of the agency’s service.

This year’s celebration is not just a reflection on institutional longevity—it is also a forwardlooking affirmation of the BOC’s evolving role in a globalized economy. As trade continues to expand and technologies reshape logistics and security, the Bureau stands firm in its commitment to integrity, innovation, and inclusive growth.

As the BOC moves ahead, it does so with the recognition that customs administration is no longer just about collecting taxes—it is about enabling a future where goods move safely, economies grow sustainably and governance earns public trust.

BOC marks... From C1

Looking toward the rest of 2026, the bureau aims to achieve full endto-end digitalization of all import and export functions. The framework focuses on integrity and accountability, with a goal of logging every step of a shipment’s journey from the moment it enters Philippine waters until its release.

The bureau is also expanding the Authorized Economic Operator program, which rewards compliant businesses with faster processing times. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to align Philippine systems with international standards as the country seeks a more prominent role in the ASEAN region.

The agency continues to enhance its “Isumbong kay Commissioner” online portal to provide the public with a direct channel to report irregularities. By professionalizing the workforce and upgrading digital infrastructure, the bureau intends to transform into a world-class customs administration.

BOC kicks off 2026 with P80.7-b revenue

THE Bureau of Customs collected P80.744 billion in January 2026, surpassing its monthly revenue target by P513 million and reflecting a 100.6-percent collection efficiency.

This represents a 1.9-percent increase over the P79.254 billion collected in January 2025, according to data released by the agency.

The bureau attributed the surplus to improved compliance and a government-wide push for economic stability. Alongside the revenue gains, officials reported 66 successful enforcement operations nationwide that led to the seizure of contraband with an estimated value of P886.8 million.

Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the results reflect the collective efforts of personnel and stakeholders committed to reform.

“Exceeding our January target is a strong affirmation of the hard work of our Customs personnel and the growing cooperation of the trade community. We are committed to sustaining this level of efficiency to support the President’s economic agenda and to exhibit the BOC’s ability of delivering reliable public service,” Nepomuceno said.

million and electronics worth P221 million. At the Port of Cebu, officials seized P1.68 million in undeclared mobile phones. The agency also intercepted agricultural products and wildlife that posed risks to local industries and consumer safety.

Nepomuceno said revenue gains are strengthened by continuous enforcement and cooperation with the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and other law enforcement bodies.

The largest seizures involved dangerous drugs valued at more than P309 million. In one intelligencedriven operation, authorities intercepted P114.566 million worth of narcotics concealed in a shipment declared as malachite stones.

Enforcement units also targeted illicit tobacco, seizing more than P209 million in products. This included a Jan. 28 raid on an illegal manufacturing facility in Pampanga where locally produced cigarettes were being made using smuggled machinery and raw materials.

Other confiscated items included vehicles and vessels valued at P143

“We remain fully committed to protecting our borders while recognizing the dedication of our intelligence and enforcement units as well as other partner agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police and Highway Patrol Group. Our enforcement is primarily focused on sustained and intelligenceled action that protects communities, supports legitimate trade, and strengthens public trust in Customs,” he said.

The bureau intends to maintain its collection efficiency throughout 2026 while intensifying high-impact operations against large-scale smuggling.