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ICI closes shop FIVE LOCAL onHOLIDAYS March 31, IN OCT. NEWS / A3Jr. says Reyes ISRAEL CONTINUES TO POUND HEZBOLLAH

Jeep drivers ask for P1-2 fare hike, others under study

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) announced Friday it is concluding its operations after transferring all documents, and WORLD / evidence, A6

VOL. XXXVIII • NO. 227• 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 •MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 • VOL. XL • NO. 32 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026 •

Palace warns oil firms: PNP resurrecting probe No excessive price hikes into PCSO official's slay Fuel prices to go up next week by as much as P22.90/l Speaker grateful for PMA Class '83 vote of confidence in Quad Comm

By Charles Dantes and Alena Mae Flores By Rio N. Araja ALACAHEÑANG Philippine warned National Police oil companies is reopening against (PNP) excessive fuel price increases as its investigation the intogovernment to safethe 2020moves murder of guard supply and cushion Philippine Charity the impact of global Sweepstakes Office market volatility driven (PCSO) board secretary by geopolitical tensions in Wesley Barayuga. the Middle East.

M T

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police This asRommel industry sources warned General Francisco Marc o n s u m bil said he ordered the reopening of ers cold mustcase after whistleblower the Mojtaba: brace Lt. forCol. Ayatollah Police Santie Mendoza told pump price the House Quad Committee that he Strait of Hormuz increases helped carry out the killing at the will remain that ofareex-PCSO behest generalshut manager higher than Royina Garma.Philreca: Power p r Mendoza e v i o u s narrated before conof electric fgressmen o r e c a s thow , rates Garma allegedly fawith diesel coopsofficial’s to go uproadside too cilitated the PCSO price hike on July 30, 2020 by assassination likely tothe necessary information providing reach P22.90 per literdetails or higher. about his schedule, about his Nextand week’s increases may to vehicle the funding necessary moveitpump carry out. prices to about P74 to The P77whistleblower per liter foralso gasoline, implicated P82 to P85 per liter for diesel, incumbent National Police Comand P96 for kerosene. missioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder. Next page Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City. Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-

•

DOTr’s Bautista says online news report‘unfounded'

Palace denies Lacierda at DICT; NUP eyes alleged DOH bid-rigging

By Darwin Amojelar

TRANSPORTATION Secretary Jaime Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members. “The Bilyonaryo article is malicious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story. By Charles Dantes, Maricel “Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added. V.Bilyonaryo Cruz andreported Rolando Ngthat III online “Bautista and his long-time protege in MALACAÑANG Friday deniedfor ruPhilippine Airlines,on Undersecretary mors of aand leadership the are DeAviation Airportsreshuffle Bobby at Lim, partment of Information and Communicaat the center of the storm after it was tions Technology (DICT), dismissing Next page

TRANSPORT group Manibela on Friday urged regulators to grant a P1 to P2 provisional fare increase for public utility vehicles PAGASA(PUVs), saying drivers are struggling to cope with rising fuel costs amid the Middle East crisis. “Supposed to be, this is our last resort if we should be given cash assistance, and the excise tax and value-added tax would be reduced or suspended,” Manibela president Mar Valbuena said in a television interview. “What will happen next week is THE government P1.48 the price would gohas up readied to P15 (per libillion ter). So worth maybe of it’said timeforforcommunius to join ties thatfor may hit hard byiftyphoon the call an be increase even it’s just ‘Julian’ which PAGASA could a provisional or temporary says increase of turn supertyphoon. Next page P1 orinto P2,”a he said. As of 5:00 PM on Sunday, PAGASA raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 3 over Batanes and the northeastern portion of Babuyan Islands. “’Julian’ is forecast to continue intensifying over the next 24-36 hours as it moves towards Batanes and/or Babuyan Islands. With the current trend in its intensification, the possibility of reaching super typhoon category is not ruled out,” PAGASA said in its advisory. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said that a total of 1.9 million family food packs worth P1.48 billion, other food items worth P276 million, and non-food items (NFIs) worth P919 million were already prepared by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Some P171 million in standby fund is also available for utilization by the DSWD, including P123 million which can be allotted as Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the central office of the DSWD. In Batanes, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised residents to secure their roofs and install window shutters as Typhoon Julian is expected to make landfall

Gov’t readies P1.48b aid as 'Julian' strengthens

SKY HIGH. Diesel fuelQUAD price shot up to P112.30 at a gas station along Kalayaan A WEB OF CRIME? House leaders Aurelio Gonzales and David Suarez presented this matrix during the last

avenue, right,Yang, yesterday even as militant groups separately called for a wage hike Comm hearing which shows the operations of a criminal syndicate allegedly led by fugitive Michael then economic and rollback in gas prices, and end to the US-Israeli war vs. Iran in the Middle adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs and was involved in theandrug East. Abante video grab, Manny Palmero, Norman Cruz trade and extrajudicial killings.

PH lobbies UN for Security Council seat

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amidForeigners heated inquiry to get visa extensions; More funds to move OFWs vowed COLLATERAL DAMAGE.

THE legal counsel of Chinese businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime. Lawyer Raymond Fortun questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court. “I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said. Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

Israeli President Isaac Herzog, top, met with a grieving Mr. Bernie Lavarias, adviser of former Rodrigo husband of the late MaryPresident Ann De Vera, Duterte. at Beit HaNassi (President’s House) in Fortun, a lawyer who his often finds Jerusalem to personally convey himself following at the center high-profile condolences her tragic death during a recent missile attack. Photo cases, apparently sought to mock below shows the 24 distressed overseas congressmen, calling their probe Filipino workers (OFWs) repatriated from “unacceptable.” JeddahHowever, through a House joint effort by the argued members Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah they did not come by their suspicions and Singapore’s Consulate-General there, about Yang recklessly. amid limited flight availability due to Senior Deputy Speaker MiddleOn EastFriday, tensions. Philippine embassy Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga in Israel/Department of Foreign Affairs

and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing. “We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

BAUTISTA

By Rio Araja, Darwin Amojelar, Ram Superable, and Maricel Cruz

By Rex Espiritu

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Beijing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience. “Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to understand that sometimes, China is doing thisdisagreed, for their and internal bill, 17% 19% audiwere ence, right? For them not to look undecided. weak and for embarrassed,” Trinidad Support this bill was particularsaid. ly strong in Metro Manila, where 69% Two Chinese warships were of respondents agreed, followed by the monitored at a distance ranging rest of Luzon at 74% and the Visayas from to 14however, nauticalrecorded miles. at 73%.eight Mindanao, One of these went up to the lowest level of agreement at 1,000 32%. yards the MMCA sitethat butwhile even-a Theatsurvey also found tually went away.(76%) “It was nota significant majority believe threatening, just normal,” accordban should be implemented at both

of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English. explained howV. the ByThe Potsolons Chavez, Maricel matrix details Yang’s connections to Cruzindividuals and Katrina Manubay other involved in illicit activities, including the operations of THE government illegal POGOs. has stepped up assistance Filipinos affected by esAmongtothe companies implicated calating tensions in the Middle are Brickhartz Technology East, Inc. with agencies and Xionwei mobilizing Technologyrepatriation Co. Ltd., efforts, are Congress which being preparing linked toadditional alleged funding, and authorities granting visa kidnapping. relief foreigners in the The to two firmsstranded supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo. During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.

THE Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s country due to thestrong crisis.record and dedication to upholding the rule(DOJ) of The Department of Justice law. on Friday ordered the Bureau of ImDepartment Affairs migration (BI) of to Foreign grant visa exten(DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo sions to foreign nationals affectedinby aongoing speech hostilities delivered in at the the region. UN GeneralJustice Assembly in New Frederick York said the Secretary Vida Philippines to emphasize directed thecontinues BI to allow visa extenthe “importance of mass upholding the sions following the cancellation rule of law and the integrity of the of outbound flights. page multilateral system in the faceNext of today’s global challenges.” Quoted by reports, Manalo also said: “The Philippines has consistently pursued peace, the sovereign equality of states, the rights and dignity of all persons.” He added that the country is also recognized as the “first Asian Re-

Baligod 18 delivered cash to solon during Speaker Velasco’s time

Next page By Pot Chavez, Joel E. Zurbano, and Ram Superable

ONE of the alleged cash deliveries involving the purported 18 former Marines took place during the term of former President

Next page Rodrigo Duterte, according to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday. Meanwhile, the supposed former Marines who allegedly delivered significant amounts of cash to government officials clammed up when they appeared at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Next page

Most Pinoys back anti-dynasty measure, only 17% oppose it THE Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announcement by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). ByChina Katrina Manubay reportedly made the anand Maricel Cruz with the nouncement coinciding fourth Multilateral Maritime CoA SIGNIFICANT majority of Filipioperative Activity between the no adults supportAustralia, the passage ofJapan, a law Philippines, againstZealand, political dynasties, 64% New and thewith United expressing agreement, according to a States within Manila’s exclusive survey conducted Pulsein Asia economic zone by (EEZ) theInc.reIn the recentover Ulatthe ng weekend. Bayan poll, gional waters results showed Navy that while 64% of rePhilippine Spokesperson spondents agreedAdmiral with theRoy proposed for WPS Rear Vin-

Next Nextpage page

AWARD. Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings, was honored by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) with its Outstanding Filipino Retailers President Award for his visionary leadership in retail development. (From left to right): PRA Director and Director of SM Retail Jorge T. Mendiola, PRA SINING FILIPINA. Organizers, judges, diplomatic dignitaries, guests, and winning Vice President and President and COO of Golden, ABC, Inc. (The Penshoppe Group) artists gather at SM Supermalls for Sining Filipina 2026: Babae Para sa Bayan: Women Alice T. Liu, SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans T. Sy, Leading Change from Home to Nation. The event at SM Podium honors women’s voices PRA President and Chairman of Quorum International, Inc. (Toby’s Sports) Roberto and creativity nationwide in celebration of Women’s Month. Presented by BDO Unibank S. Claudio, and PRA Director and President of Sportshouse Int’l. Leisure, Inc. and and SM Supermalls, Sining Filipina champions female creativity and empowerment in proponent of PRA OFR President’s Award Mars C. Chua support of the Zonta Club of Makati and Environs.

NEWS

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Jeep... From A1

In related developments: • The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it is reviewing proposals to raise the basic fares for buses, jeepneys, and airport taxis. “We’re expecting next week,” the agency said when asked for an update on fare hike petitions. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said he had ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to study the proposals and consider the impact on commuters and transport operators. • In the aviation sector, Lopez has ordered the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to reduce Passenger Service Charges (PSC) and airport navigation fees across CAAP-operated airports to help offset rising airline operating costs. “At our last monitoring, the price of jet fuel had almost doubled—from $90.87 per barrel on February 19 to $188.2 per barrel on March 9,” Lopez said. The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) has also shortened the evaluation period for fare adjustments from one month to 15 days so that any drop in jet fuel prices can be reflected more quickly in airline fares. • Lawmakers and economists have warned that rising oil prices could also drive up electricity costs. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to implement any electricity rate increases on a staggered basis to cushion consumers from sudden financial strain. “The power sector is a regulated industry, and the ERC should not allow one-time, big-time increases in electricity rates. This is the worst time to raise power rates,” he said. • Economists are also proposing broader fiscal measures to cushion consumers. IBON Foundation Executive Director Sonny Africa suggested imposing a wealth tax and realigning some government spending to help fund relief measures if oil prices continue to surge. “If the Marcos administration decides that the poor should not be made to bear the burden of the crisis, that expands options… a wealth tax is eminently justifiable,” Africa said during ANC’s Headstart. He said a 1 to 3 percent wealth tax on assets worth over P1 billion to P3 billion could generate P500 billion to P600 billion annually, noting that about 3,000 Filipino billionaires hold a combined P8.2 trillion in assets. “In an exceptional situation of oil price shocks, we need exceptional measures,” Africa said. Valbuena said many drivers have been losing P400 to P500 in daily earnings, noting that fuel prices have risen by P25 to P30 per liter in recent weeks. Because of higher fuel costs and low ridership during off-peak hours, some drivers have adopted alternate driving schedules to reduce competition. Valbuena also said the P5,000 fuel subsidy from the government is insufficient. Many drivers, he said, are unable to meet requirements set by local government units to qualify for the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. He also raised concerns over the use of an outdated beneficiary list from the COVID-19 pandemic for the assistance program. “The deadline for the submission was yesterday. This should be extended,” he said. As this developed, the government is expected to decide next week on petitions seeking a provisional fare increase for public utility vehicles (PUVs) as rising global fuel prices threaten to push up transport and electricity costs. The DOTr said it is evaluating the effect of aggressive fuel price increases linked to the worsening geopolitical situation in the Middle East. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it would coordinate with the LTFRB to obtain a list of potential beneficiaries. Lopez earlier said the government would begin distributing the P5,000 fuel subsidy to PUV drivers in Metro Manila starting March 17, 2026. He said the DOTr is working with the DSWD and local government units for the rollout, with tricycle drivers receiving the subsidy first, followed by jeepney, taxi, Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS), and bus drivers. Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chair and Chief Executive Officer Francis Saturnino Juan said a simulation conducted by the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines showed a possible P2 to P4 per kilowatt-hour increase in electricity prices based on global oil price trends.

Palace... From A1

Sources said diesel is estimated to increase by P19.80 to P22.90 per liter, gasoline by P13.70 to P16.70 per liter and kerosene by P3.57 per liter. The Petroleum Association of the Philippines (PAP), for its part, urged power generation companies to maximize the use of domestic natural gas to help stabilize electricity prices, noting the country still has unused indigenous capacity that could reduce reliance on costly fuel imports. Worldwide, oil prices held gains above $100 Friday, and most equity markets dropped after Iran's leader called for the blocking of the crucial Strait of Hormuz and the opening up of new fronts in the war against the United States and Israel. With the conflict heading towards its third week and showing no signs of ending, investors are growing increasingly worried about an extended crisis that could fan inflation and hammer the global economy. Tehran has targeted energy facilities this week across the Gulf, with ships hit near Iraq, fuel tanks attacked in Bahrain, and drones fired at oil fields in Saudi Arabia. And it warned on Thursday that it would "set the region's oil and gas on fire" if its own energy infrastructure and ports were targeted.

Foreigners... From A1

“This is the Philippine government’s simple way of extending relief not only to those directly affected by the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, but also a compassionate gesture of support to stand in solidarity with the whole world during this difficult time of socio-economic and political upheavals,” Vida said. Under Department Order No. 159, series of 2026, dated March 9, foreigners whose visas expired on Feb. 28 may legally remain in the country until April 1 without paying fees, fines, or penalties. Meanwhile, lawmakers said Congress is ready to approve a supplemental budget if additional resources are needed to repatriate Filipinos caught in the conflict. House Committee on Foreign Affairs chairperson Pangasinan Rep. Rachel Arenas said the 20th Congress

ICI... From A1

findings concerning the multibillion flood control project scandal to the Office of the Ombudsman. ICI Chairman Andres Reyes Jr. expressed his belief that the commission has effectively fulfilled its responsibilities as outlined in Executive Order No. 94, thereby setting the stage for the ongoing efforts to be carried on by the legally constituted agencies. “Thus, I hereby recommend that the ICI wind down its operations. The commission will remain operational until March 31, 2026 to complete the necessary administrative processes related to its wind-down,” he said. The ICI has been in operation for nearly six months. However, with the resignation of its two commissioners, it functioned as a collegial body for only 90 days. “Within this brief period, the commission has established the investigative framework and methodology that can now be adopted and replicated by statutory prosecutorial agencies in examining

Baligod... From A1

In a related development, Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Panfilo Lacson said the panel remains open to hearing the testimonies of the 18 former Marines who claimed to have delivered alleged kickbacks to certain individuals, provided their sworn statements were factual and verifiable. “There was a delivery done of the 18 marines supposedly in the joint affidavit of the 18 marines pointed to a delivery to one of the congressmen. But… it appears that this delivery was done during the time of Speaker Lord Velasco, that picture that was put in the affidavit was done during the time of Speaker Lord Velasco,” Remulla said in a press briefing. Remulla described the narrative as “manipulation of facts” noting it is not an entirely accurate depiction. Velasco served as Speaker from October 2020 to June 2022. Remulla clarified that one of the pictures in the affidavit was taken before they assumed office.

In his first public comments since succeeding his father four days ago, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said the Strait of Hormuz — through which a fifth of global oil and gas passes — must remain effectively shut. "The lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must definitely be used," Khamenei said in a message read by an anchor on state television. He also said "studies have been conducted into opening other fronts where the enemy has little experience and would be highly vulnerable, and their activation will take place if the state of war persists." The International Energy Agency earlier warned the war "is creating the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market." Officials from the Marcos administration met with oil industry executives at Malacañang Palace on Thursday to discuss fuel supply stability and prevent what authorities described as potential profiteering by retailers. Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, who led the government delegation with Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, said the meeting focused on protecting consumers from unreasonable price adjustments while the global oil market remains volatile. “The meeting focused on supply and prices, on how to keep both stable, amidst the volatility we are seeing,” Recto said. "What the President wants is simple—while we are addressing this

crisis, the government and the private sector should work together, so that our fellow citizens don't feel the heavy impact as much," he added. Garin told oil companies to ensure that gasoline stations adjust prices only in accordance with actual market conditions and warned that authorities would not tolerate unjustified increases. She said any premature, excessive, or unreasonable fuel price hike would be dealt with firmly. Officials also discussed contingency plans should global supply chains face further disruption. Recto said oil companies assured the government that logistical challenges in bringing petroleum products to the Philippines remain manageable despite the volatile situation abroad. The administration, however, has already begun exploring alternative supply sources in case the conflict worsens and further constrains global oil production, Recto said. "This is the kind of oil diplomacy that oil executives and the government will have to jointly undertake," the Palace official added. Industry sources, however, said next week's round of price increases could exceed the higher end of the forecast range. The Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association Inc. also warned that power rates of electric cooperatives is forecasted to increase by P1.35 per kilowatthour starting April.

“Based on our members' initial projections, we expect a possible increase of P1.35 per kilowatt-hour, which we may feel in April. We would like to clarify that the possible increase is due to the increase in global crude oil and coal prices, and these are pass-through costs that we will also pay directly to our power suppliers,” the group said. It added it was waiting for the Department of Energy and the Energy Regulatory Commission to issue a directive for a staggered implementation. “Ultimately, our goal is simple: our countrymen should not experience price shocks. In case there are staggered payments to our memberconsumer-owners, we also request the power generators and suppliers to get the same mechanism for our payments to them, so that our financial stability is not too strained,” PHILRECA said. Senator Sherwiin Gatchalian also called on the ERC to ensure that any increase in electricity rates is implemented on a staggered basis to protect consumers from sudden financial distress. Gatchalian, vice-chair of the Senate Committee on Energy said the ERC should closely monitor electricity rates and prohibit one-time, large increases. "The electricity sector is a regulated industry. Now is the worst time to increase electricity costs. It's the job of the ERC to help ease the burden on our people,” he said. With AFP

stands ready to support additional funding should the situation worsen. “We will go by the guiding principle of the President, which is safety first,” Arenas said, referring to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to prioritize the safety of Filipinos overseas. “And we will not hesitate to support the needs of our departments to make sure that every Filipino is safe and protected,” she added, noting that developments in the Middle East remain “very fluid.” Arenas said Philippine embassies in the region joined a recent congressional hearing online to provide updates despite security risks, adding that an estimated 2.4 million to 2.5 million Filipinos are working overseas. “Makikita po natin yung vulnerability ng ating (We can see the vulnerability of our) OFWs,” she said. The lawmaker also warned against AI-generated videos circulating online that could cause panic among

Filipinos monitoring the situation. “Actually, this was brought up yesterday because we don’t want to cause panic among our citizens and their families here,” Arenas said. She confirmed that government agencies are assisting the family of Mary Ann Velasquez de Vera, the Filipina caregiver from Pangasinan who died after being struck by debris during an attack. “And nakikiramay po kaming lahat sa pamilya niya (we express our condolences to her entire family),” she said. House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs chairperson AGIMAT Party-list Rep. Bryan Revilla also assured the public that the government’s contingency plans are fully activated as the situation remains volatile. He said authorities are closely monitoring around 2.4 million Filipinos in the region while prioritizing “shelter-in-place” protocols and preparing safe land evacuation routes for

those in immediate danger. “Nananatiling mapanganib ang sitwasyon dahil sa palitan ng mga pag-atake, ngunit ang ating mga Embahada ay naka-alerto 24/7. Ang layunin natin ay mabilis at maayos na serbisyo para sa bawat Pilipino, dokumentado man o hindi, lalo na sa mga bansang gaya ng Israel, Kuwait, at Bahrain na direktang naaapektuhan,” Revilla said. He said Rapid Response Teams have been positioned at the borders of Egypt, Jordan, and Oman to guide Filipinos to safe exit points in areas where airspace closures prevent flights. Revilla added that more than 4,300 requests for assistance have been received from Kuwait alone, including nearly 2,700 requests for repatriation. “Sa ating mga OFW: Huwag po kayong mag-panic. Manatili sa loob ng inyong mga tahanan o shelters at sumunod sa abiso. Nandito po kami, ang inyong gobyerno, para sa inyo,” Revilla urged.

the full universe of anomalous infrastructure projects,” Reyes said. The commission has already referred nine cases involving 65 individuals to the Ombudsman, assembled 20 agencies in the Technical Working Group for Asset Recovery, and started developing three information systems aimed at detecting fraud and irregularities in infrastructure projects. “While these represent only the initial phase of a much broader investigative and restitution effort, these accomplishments demonstrate that, with strong inter-agency coordination, proper investigations can be conducted which could ultimately lead to the successful prosecution of those responsible and the recovery of stolen public funds,” he said. The investigative methodology developed by the ICI has been included in the materials turned over to the Ombudsman to facilitate the seamless transition of the Commission’s investigative work. Reyes urged the Technical Working Group for Asset Recovery to continue its restitution efforts based on the guidance provided by the Commission.

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above, and has a margin of error of ±2.8% at the 95% confidence level. The Senate and House committees handling their respective anti-dynasty measures have passed the proposed bills. A House leader has said the committee-approved bill on political dynasties could lead to displacement of over 5,000 "dynastic" officials. “The numbers speak for themselves—and they say the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill will change the landscape of Philippine politics and governance” said Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, chair of House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms. Adiong said preliminary findings show that 9,852 out of 17,983 local-level positions (54.8 percent) are occupied by potential dynasts belonging to approximately 4,239 potential dynastic families. “The data clearly shows that the committee version—with the seconddegree consanguinity/affinity limitation—will have a significant impact on political dynasties. Projections indicate that over 5,000 elective positions could be vacated by individuals from political dynasties once the measure takes effect,” said Adiong.

Remulla shared that the luggage’s reportedly contained money that was delivered before 2022. NBI director Melvin Matibag said the investigators were unable to carry out its fact-finding task because 16 of the so-called “Baligod 18” refused to talk. “Attorney [Levi] Baligod assured that they would return. Out of 18, 16 showed up. However, none of them spoke, not even during the media interview,” Matibag said. Matibag also said former congressman Mike Defensor, along with lawyer Ferdinand Topacio and Baligod, represented the 16 ex-Marines. “How are we supposed to investigate that? How can the NBI fulfill our work if these individuals making complaints are not cooperating?” he lamented, adding that they needed the testimonies to build a solid case and hold those responsible accountable. Matibag also highlighted alleged inconsistencies in the narratives of Topacio and Baligod. “One of them claims that he agreed to investigate them one by one. The other one, however, said it is suspicious if you asked them one by one,” he noted.

From A1

national and local levels, 13% feel it should apply only to local government positions, and 11% prefer it to apply only to elective positions at the national level. Support for banning political dynasties at both levels was highest in Balance Luzon and the Visayas, with 77% and 76%, respectively. In contrast, the National Capital Region (NCR) and Mindanao showed lower agreement levels at 74% and 72%, respectively. Additionally, nearly seven out of ten Filipino adults (69%) believe that relatives should be prohibited from holding the same local government post consecutively. This view is supported by substantial majorities across various regions and socioeconomic classes, ranging from 72% to 78% in different regions and 66% to 85% across different social classes, with Mindanao as the exception at 47%. The face-to-face survey was conducted from February 27 to March 2, with 1,200 respondents aged 18 and

Palace... From A1

claims that former presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda would replace Secretary Henry Aguda. Meanwhile, the National Unity Party (NUP) backs a congressional probe into the alleged anomalous procurement of Mobile Primary Care Facilities (MPCF) by the Department of Health (DOH). In a message to reporters, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the online report about a supposed changing of the guard at the DICT was false. The Palace recently confirmed a leadership transition at the Department of Tourism after Christina Garcia Frasco was appointed presidential adviser for sustainable and resilient communities, a Cabinet-level portfolio focused on strengthening national initiatives in communities vulnerable to climate-related disruptions. Frasco stepped down as tour-

ism secretary on March 12 and will transition to the advisory role while continuing to support the administration’s priority programs at the local level, Malacañang said. Following her reassignment, Tourism Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso was designated officer in charge of the department while the President considers a permanent replacement. In a statement, the NUP said it supports the call of Quezon City 3rd District Rep. Franz Pumaren for legislative inquiry into the DOH’s implementation of the MPCF program in light of recent complaints filed in the Ombudsman against top DOH officials, including Secretary Teodoro Herbosa over alleged bid rigging and other irregularities in the procurement process. The NUP chaired by Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City Rep. Ronaldo Puno said it stands behind Pumaren and will push for the appropriate House committees to act on the resolution without delay.

NEWS IN BRIEF NE cops act swiftly on twin murder case PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has commended the Nueva Ecija police for the quick resolution of a double murder case the victims of which were burned along with a car in Peñaranda town early this week. Nartatez said the swift arrest of four suspects showed the effectiveness of coordinated police work and rapid response on the ground. “This is another proof of the significant improvements in the investigative and operational capabilities of your PNP, and we will continue to invest on this for the safety and peace of mind of the people,” said Nartatez. Nueva Ecija policemen captured the four suspects in the twin killings during hot pursuit operations which ended in Mallig, Isabela on March 11. Vince Lopez

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

THE NATIVES ARE RESTLESS. Indigenous people, including tribal Muslims and like-minded advocates stage a brief protest rally in front of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) central office in Quezon City in observance of the International Day of Action for Rivers, condemning large dams and renewable energy projects ‘that destroy our river system and displace communities.’ Manny Palmero

Dizon allays anxieties of minor contractors PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon has assured private contractors that the government will pay for legitimate infrastructure projects not linked to the ongoing flood-control controversy, particularly those involving smaller projects. During the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel, Dizon said projects unrelated to flood-control will not be affected by the government’s review of alleged anomalies in the government’s infrastructure framework. He noted that small contractors depend on government projects to sustain their businesses and provide jobs for their workers. The assurance came as the government presses its investigation into questionable flood-control projects worth billions of pesos across the country. Vito Barcelo

US troops arrive in CDO ahead of Balikatan 2026 AMERICAN soldiers have arrived in Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental ahead of this year’s Balikatan exercises between the Philippines and the United States. The Armed Forces of the Philippines clarified that the US troops’ arrival in CDO was pursuant to the joint military exercises and not related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr. commander of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division, explained that the Balikatan involving Philippine and US forces will be conducted at one of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in Mindanao. One of the key locations for the exercise is Lumbia Air Base, the former Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro. Rex Espiritu

ASEAN closes ranks amid crisis By Katrina Manubay

OREIGN ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Friday pledged to enhance coordination to address the regional impacts of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, emphasizing the need to focus on energy supply chains and economic stability, while advocating for restraint and diplomacy to resolve hostilities. During a virtual press briefing, Philippine She noted that officials agreed to colDepartment of Foreign Affairs Secretary laborate on addressing the crisis’ ramifiTheresa Lazaro presented the results of a cations on ASEAN-member nations. special ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting “On energy supply chains, we also disregarding the situation in the Middle East. cussed the adverse impacts of the conflict

in the Middle East and global economic activity, particularly on energy markets and maritime transport routes, and underscored the importance of maintaining stable, open, and reliable global and regional energy supply chains and maritime trade routes,” Lazaro said. She also highlighted the significance of utilizing available mechanisms to mitigate the crisis’ effects, including the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security, the ASEAN Power Grid, and the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline, in coordination with relevant sectoral bodies. Asked if ASEAN agreed on immediate measures to address rising oil prices, Lazaro cited the 43rd ASEAN Ministerial Meeting

PH, Canada seek closer ties moving forward to FTA

ANTI-RABIES DRIVE. Over 800 cats and dogs are given anti-rabies shots during the Veterinary Medical Mission spearheaded by the Office of the Imus City Veterinarian in Brgy. Magdalo in connection with the observance of Rabies Awareness Month. Dennis Abrina

Probe widened to bust syndicate behind P5.8-b shabu smuggling By Vince Lopez INTELLIGENCE units of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement agencies have launched an intensified investigation with a view to dismantling a perceived international drug syndicate behind the P5.8-billion packages of “shabu” that was intercepted in the coastal waters off Paluan, Occidental Mindoro.

SMUGGLED CIGARETTES.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno takes matters in his own hands as he inspects some P235 million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized recently in Batangas. From January 1 to March 6, this year, Customs has so far recorded 127cigarettesmuggling interdictions, resulting in the seizure of approximately P2 billion worth of illicit tobacco products nationwide. BOC photo

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said part of the investigation aims to identify all personalities involved in the drug smuggling, including local contacts comprising the distribution network of the syndicate. “The synergy among government agencies that led to this successful operation will be more forceful in running after all those responsible for the attempt to smug-

on Energy held in Kuala Lumpur. She noted during the meeting, the energy ministers endorsed a framework to ensure oil and gas security during supply disruptions, enhance emergency response coordination, and strengthen the region’s energy system’s resilience. “The ministers of energy had a meeting in 2025, and they have certain mechanisms that they have formulated. So, that is something that can be activated as soon as possible. But again, this is within the realm of energy ministers,” she added. Earlier this month, the ASEAN bloc issued a joint statement reiterating its commitment to assist ASEAN nationals in crisis areas.

gle this multi-billion pesos worth of illegal drugs,” Nartatez said. Troops of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division earlier discovered 43 sacks containing shabu in a speedboat found abandoned along the coastal waters of Occidental Mindoro. Based on initial assessment by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the seized illegal drugs weighed around

860 kilograms with an estimated market value of ₱5.8 billion. Thirty more packs of suspected shabu were later discovered during follow-up operations while four people, including two foreigners, were so far arrested. Nartatez directed police operatives to intensify follow-up operations to apprehend all individuals who may be connected to the drug-smuggling operations.

THE Philippines and Canada on Friday called for stronger cooperation on economic security and emerging technologies, emphasizing the importance of the ongoing free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations to strengthen bilateral relations. In his keynote address at a conference organized by the Stratbase Institute and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman highlighted that concluding the FTA would be a significant milestone, marking the Philippines’ first such agreement with a North American country. “Modern trade agreements are far more than just reducing tariffs. They create stable and predictable frameworks that help economies diversify supply chains [and] strengthen investment confidence,” Hartman said. “In a time of global uncertainty, these qualities are essential,” he added. The ambassador noted that both countries have set an ambitious timeline for concluding the negotiations. Stratbase Institute president Victor Andres Manhit emphasized the need for resilience, saying it requires cooperation among like-minded partners such as Canada. Katrina Manubay

Jehovah’s set to mark milestone events MORE than nine million followers of the religious sect Jehovah’s Witness around the world are expected to attend two public events designed to educate the community about the Bible’s promise of a better future. On Thursday, April 2, 2026, the annual observance of the Lord’s Evening Meal will feature a talk highlighting what Jesus taught about mankind’s future. “While many today feels uncertain about the future, the Bible offers something rare—real hope. This event speaks how the life and teachings of Jesus have a great significance to each individual around the world. This life-changing truth gives people a reason to look ahead with confidence, not anxiety,” Normito Zapata Jr., spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses in Metro Manila said in a statement. During the campaign, the devotees will also

extend an invitation to a special public talk titled “Who Will Restore the Earth?” to be delivered in March before over 118,000-strong congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses worldwide. The 30-minute program will address what the Bible says about mankind’s relationship to the earth, the arth’s future restoration, and how to benefit from the Bible’s promises. It was almost 2,000 years ago on Nisan 14 of the Jewish calendar, 33 C.E., that Jesus instituted the Lord’s Evening Meal with his apostles. That evening, Jesus commanded, as recorded at Luke 22:19, “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.” The Witnesses obey that commandment every year on the corresponding day as a reminder of how the biblical hope of a restored earth is possible. More than 21 million people attended the Lord’s Evening Meal last year.

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SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

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Careworkers of PWDs to get cash aid—DSWD By Maricel V. Cruz

FOR THE FAITHFUL. Tourists visit the Baguio Cathedral ahead of the observance of Holy Week, offering prayers and taking photos at the historic hilltop church. Edd Castro

PH starts digital mapping of roads By Vince Lopez

HE Department of the Interior and Local Government has digitally mapped 167,103 kilometers of local roads and 17,229 bridges nationwide through its enhanced Local Roads and Bridges Inventory (LRBI), giving government planners one of the most comprehensive datasets on local infrastructure in the country.

The system aims to strengthen Managed by the DILG’s Office of transparency in public works under Project Development Services (OPDS), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push it supports the administration’s direcfor digital governance. tive to ensure infrastructure planning is

guided by reliable, real-time data. As of December 31, 2025, the inventory shows that 30,525.13 kilometers are provincial roads, 16,784.66 kilometers are city roads, 15,965.73 kilometers are municipal roads, and 103,828.26 kilometers are barangay roads. For bridges, the system lists 3,269 provincial bridges, 1,884 city bridges, and 12,076 municipal bridges nationwide. Recognized under the Philippine Statistics Authority’s System of Designated Statistics, the LRBI serves as a key decision-support tool for policymakers, planners, engineers, and development

partners involved in infrastructure planning, disaster risk reduction, urban development, and local economic growth. The upgraded LRBI also introduces integrated road names, road importance classifications, and an improved user interface, making the platform easier to navigate while allowing more detailed analysis of infrastructure needs and investment priorities. The DILG urged all local government units to regularly update their road and bridge data in the system to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the national inventory.

MORE than 1,800 family and community careworkers and persons with disabilities with high support needs are expected to benefit from the expansion of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Therapy for Fee (TheraFee) Project for 2026. DSWD spokesman Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the TheraFree Project is a new initiative of the department that supports family and community members caring for persons with disabilities with high support needs by incentivizing their duty as care workers through cash-for-work (CFW). “As part of our inclusive social protection programs, the DSWD recognizes that caregiving is real work. Through the TheraFee Project, we are supporting families and community careworkers who devote their time and effort to caring for persons with disabilities,” Dumlao said yesterday. Through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), in partnership with the National Council for Disability Affairs, the DSWD rolled out the pilot implementation of the TheraFee Project in the National Capital Region and Region 6 (Western Visayas) in 2025. For 2026, the TheraFee Project will be implemented across all regions in the country, except the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), to assist family members and community careworkers, as primary beneficiaries; and persons with irreversible physical, sensory, intellectual, or psychosocial impairments that limit independent functioning and require continuous support for daily living, as secondary beneficiaries of the program.

IN BRIEF DepEd to promote Filipino literature to boost literacy THE Department of Education said that it will strengthen the promotion of Filipino literature as part of its campaign for increased literacy. During the opening of a book fair in Pasig City, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said despite modern technologies, books remain important in today’s times. “We remain invested in what continues to matterencouraging our learners to strengthen their literacy through books,” Angara said. At least 93.1 percent of Filipinos aged 10 to 64 remain capable of performing foundational literacy skills, such as reading, according to a study released in 2025. Rolando Ng III

OTS installs 2 more x-rays for explosives at NAIA-3 THE Office for Transportation Security has successfully delivered and begun the installation of two additional Explosive Detection System (EDS) X-ray machines at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. This initiative enhances the ability of OTS Security Screening Officers to identify improvised explosive devices and other prohibited items within the airport terminal, thereby increasing security measures and ensuring passenger safety. OTS Administrator Gilbert Cruz said the enhancement is intended to reinforce strict adherence to standard operating procedures, eliminate identified security vulnerabilities, and ensure the integrity of the screening process in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure passenger safety, security, convenience, and confidence in the transportation system. Prior to installation, the equipment underwent inspection and quantity verification in accordance with applicable government procurement and acceptance procedures. Joel Zurbano

COUNTERFEIT.

National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas representative Mark Fajardo inspect alleged counterfeit foreign banknotes and U.S. Treasury bills during a press conference in Pasay City on Friday, March 13, 2026. Norman Cruz

Binay thanks admin for public transport fuel subsidy By Joel E. Zurbano MAKATI City Mayor Nancy Binay on Friday thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his initiative to offer P5,000 in fuel subsidy aimed at assisting tricycle drivers. Around 6,000 tricycle drivers have been officially registered in Makati City. According to Binay, the financial aid will offer essential relief to tricycle drivers, who are

among the groups most impacted by the ongoing rise in fuel prices due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Other transport sectors, such as jeepney drivers and operators, will follow suit. “We thank President Marcos for immediately responding to the needs of our public transport drivers,” she said. As part of the program, each eligible tricycle driver will receive P5,000 in financial support.

Housing for Pinyahan fire victims in QC set

Benguet, Baguio LGUs adopt compressed 4-day workweek THE Benguet provincial government and the Baguio City government recently adopted the compressed work schedule along with other energy conservation measures pursuant to Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 114 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Benguet adopted the 4-day work week from Mondays to Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., on March 9, 2026 while Baguio will be implementing similar arrangements starting March 16, 2026 where the work schedule will be from Mondays to Thursdays, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, offices providing frontline services in both local governments are exempted from the coverage of the compressed work schedule and will remain in their regular or specialized work schedules depending on their assigned duties and responsibilities. Similarly, Benguet State University announced it will implement a four-day onsite workweek with offices operating Monday to Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The university will also continue to observe its “No Noon Break Policy” to maintain continuous service for stakeholders. Dexter A. See

The distribution in Metro Manila is set to start Tuesday, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Transportation, in collaboration with local government units. Binay reassured Makati tricycle drivers the city government will collaborate closely with national agencies to facilitate the distribution of the subsidy to qualified beneficiaries.

By Rio N. Araja

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES. A unit of the Philippine Army based in Sulu has launched a free solar-powered charging station for the public as part of its community outreach during the holy month of Ramadan. The 21st Infantry Battalion, also known as the Invincible Battalion, introduced the ‘Invincible Free Solar Charging Station’ to provide a convenient service for residents in its area of operations.

QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has partnered with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the National Housing Authority to build an in-city vertical housing for victims of a huge fire that hit a residential area in Barangay Pinyahan on March 6. “We are working closely with DHSUD to develop an in-city vertical housing project. We want to assure affected families that they will be prioritized and will benefit from the housing we are planning to build,” she said. The housing project would be implemented under the national government’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program, the flagship housing initiative of the Marcos administration. During a recent joint site inspection with DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling and NHA general manager Joeben Tai, the officials agreed to develop multi-storey residential buildings in the area as part of the in-city resettlement plan for fire victims.

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EDITORIAL

Honor Blanco Cabie

PH’s role as a ‘Pathfinder and Peacemaker’ NOT many seem to appreciate that there is a strong, strategic need for this country, one of 50 founding members of the United Nations in 1945 in San Francisco, California, to secure a non-permanent seat (2027-2028) on the UN Security Council, even without veto power. We are persuaded by keen observers and geopolitical analysts that such membership offers a crucial platform to directly influence global security discussions, defend maritime sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, protect overseas workers, and amplify the voices of developing nations. The United Nations was officially established on Oct. 24, 1945, in California, following the ratification of the UN Charter by the majority of signatories. The charter was signed earlier that year on June 26, 1945, by representatives from 50 countries at the United Nations Conference on International Organization. Carlos P. Romulo signed the charter and later became the first Asian president of the UN General Assembly (1949–1950). The country has been a staunch supporter of the UN, contributing to peacekeepings missions for over six decades. We are in harmony with observers the Philippine bid can open the door to active defense of sovereign interests, influencing global security, middle power diplomacy and protection of Filipino citizens. The no-veto power seat allows the Philippines to directly address maritime disputes, like in the West Philippine Sea, within the highest global security body. Despite lacking veto power, nonpermanent members are acknowledged for their capacity to help shape, negotiate, and vote on critical resolutions, strengthening the country’s credibility as a proponent of international law and diplomacy. It provides as well a platform to advocate for the interests of smaller and developing nations, promoting a more democratic, less veto-dependent UN. We share the thought the position enhances the country’s capacity to influence policies that directly affect the safety and security of 2.19 million documented overseas Filipino workers globally, with Asia taking 1.63 million or 74.5 percent – with Asian top destinations like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuwait. The bid is significant for fostering a rules-based international order and asserting the Philippines’ role as a “Pathfinder and Peacemaker” in global conflicts. Malacañang tself has expressed optimism over the Philippines’ push, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his visitthis week to New York, to secure a non-permanent seat, stressing the role carries a responsibility to promote global peace and security. We heard Palace Press Officer Claire Castro say membership in the UNSC would allow the Philippines to contribute its voice to international discussions on

peace and security affecting countries around the world. Castro was correct when she said “Becoming a member and being given a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council does not mean that only the Philippines’ own interests will be defended or heard.” The role is about representing broader global concerns and not just national interests.

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The no-veto power seat allows the Philippines to directly address maritime disputes within the highest global security body Indeed, if the Philippines secures a seat in the council in June for the 20272028 term, its voice could help contribute to global safety, peace and security, particularly on issues faced by different countries, Castro said, adding “It’s not all about us, it’s all about everybody.” Rightly, whatever country is facing issues related to peace and security, Manila’s voice should also be heard once this founding member nation becomes a member of the UN Security Council. She acknowledged the Philippines also has its own security concerns, which may naturally come up in discussions. We know the Philippines’ participation would not be limited to advancing its own concerns but would aim to serve the broader international community, particularly Asia, where 4.85 billion of the world’s 8.3 billion people live. Castro aptly said the Philippines “is not only for itself but for everyone. This is not just a privilege, but a responsibility. Not only for the country, but for all nations, especially in Asia.” The UN Security Council consists of 15 total members: five permanent members with veto power (China, France, Russia, UK, and US) and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. The non-permanent seats are distributed regionally, with five new members elected by the General Assembly each year. As of Jan. 2026, the 10 non-permanent members of the UN Security Council, elected for staggered two-year terms, are: Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Greece, Latvia, Liberia, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia. It was in 1965 when the number of non-permanent members was expanded to 10. These 10 non-permanent members are elected by the United Nations General Assembly for two-year terms starting on Jan 1, with five replaced each year.

The Lord’s Seven Words (First of two parts)

By Armenio Manuel IN 20 days from today, predominantly Christian Philippines will once more hear the Seven Words of their Redeemer, the last seven expressions on the Cross as recorded in the Scripture: The first word: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” Gospel of Luke 23:34. According to scholars, Jesus said this first word only in the Gospel of Luke, just after he was crucified by the soldiers on Golgotha, with the criminals – one to His right and the other to His left. The timing of this suggests that Jesus asked his Father to primarily forgive the soldiers who have whipped and scourged him, mocked him, tortured him, and who have just nailed Him to the Cross. But, scholars have asked. Could this not also apply to His apostles and the latter’s companions who have deserted Him, to Peter who has denied Him three times, to the fickle-minded crowd, who only days before praised Him on His entrance to Jerusalem, and then days later chose Him over Barabbas to be crucified?

When asked by Peter, how many times should we forgive someone, Jesus answers 70 times seven (Matthew 18:21-22). At the Last Supper, Jesus explains his crucifixion to His Apostles when he tells them to drink of the cup: “Drink of it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:27-28). He forgives the paralytic at Capernaum (Mark 2:5), and the adulteress caught in the publicly despicable act and about to be stoned (John 8:1-11). As we reflect on the Lord’s First Word, we note what former University of Santo Tomas Rector. Rev. Fr. Rolando V. de la Rosa said several years ago during the Lenten celebration at the Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City. The Dominican priest, whose roots are from Ilocos Norte and Albay, had said Jesus was asking God to forgive the people who had a hand in his death – despite enduring hours of shame, intense pain, fear and sadness. Reflecting on the First Word, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do,” De la Rosa reminded the audience

Unmistakably loud and clear

HIS week, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. renewed his appeal before the UN General Assembly to support the Philippines’ bid for a no-veto power non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council. The 68-year-old president vowed the country stands ready “to help calm voices of division, provide a voice of balance; to shun ambition, for service, and always as a voice for principled peace.” In his speech on Wednesday, Manila time, on the last day of his working visit to New York, Mr. Marcos underlined his country, up against Kyrgyztan (population 7.4 million people), is aware a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council is not a right of any State, but a privilege earned through consistent, dedicated, meaningful, and concrete partnership, in the service of the United Nations, and so of humanity.” The Philippines (population 117 million people) has been campaigning for another term on the council since 2013 for the Asia-Pacific regional spot. It previously held one of the elected seats for the 2004–2005 term. A two-thirds vote – 129 of 193 – from the General Assembly is required to secure the seat. Diplomatic observers have emphasized a potential 2027-2028 UN Security Council membership for the Philippines would allow the country to leverage its role as a “Partner, Pathfinder, and Peacemaker” to promote a rules-based international order, advocate for climate-vulnerable nations, and advance women’s

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The Philippines brings a unique, ‘small country’ perspective that emphasizes diplomatic engagement over military power, acting as a crucial mediator in international disputes We share the sentiments of many that the Philippines, if elected in June this year, can contribute to global progress through advocacy for rule of law, promotion of peace and security, championing climate action, empowering women and

WASHINGTON, DC – US President Donald Trump has built a potential offramp by suggesting the Iran war could end soon, but the world is still guessing about whether he will take it -- and whether Tehran will let him. With surging oil prices threatening the global economy and his political fortunes at home, Trump’s tone appeared to shift abruptly on Monday as he called the war “very complete” and a “short-term excursion.” But the 79-year-old commander-inchief continued to send mixed messages about when the war could end -- and what its goals are -- leaving it far from clear what he will ultimately settle for. For Trump, that calculation will almost certainly involve November’s US midterm elections, with gas prices likely to fuel voter anger at his Republican Party over the cost of living. Polls so far show historically low support among Americans for the war. “I think he’s going to keep going until his advisers tell him that the economic pain is going to risk the midterms,” Colin Clarke, executive director of the Soufan Center in New York, told AFP. “He’s going to make a political decision about a military operation.” For some, Trump’s comments on a short Iran war timeline were evidence of what observers have dubbed the TACO phenomenon -- “Trump Always Chickens Out.” “What they did communicate clearly, to the delight of markets, was that Trump is looking for an exit,” wrote Robert Armstrong, the Financial Times journalist who

first coined the term TACO. In the opening days of the US-Israeli strikes, Trump suggested the war could last four or five weeks, but markets surged at his hints on Monday that it could be shorter. Clarke said he believed Trump would “go hard for the next two weeks tops, then things are so messy he’s going to declare victory.” ‘Wounded animal’ Victory will then be in the eye of the beholder. Both Trump and his administration have publicly given a panoply of shifting goals for the war, ranging from unconditional surrender, to regime change in all but name, to securing the flow of Gulf oil.

But on paper it has listed some core military objectives -- ensuring Iran has no nuclear weapon, eliminating its ballistic missiles and its navy, and curbing its regional proxies -- that could be easier for Trump to sign off on. The White House said on Tuesday that Trump himself would define what “unconditional surrender” meant. “President Trump will determine when Iran is in a place of unconditional surren-

der, when they no longer pose a credible and direct threat to the United States of America and our allies,” spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told a briefing. But Iran will likely see any such declaration as Trump blinking first. Despite the significant damage from the US-Israeli air campaign, Tehran has stepped up its defiant tone since Trump’s remarks, vowing to block Gulf oil supplies and mocking the US leader’s claims to be in control of the timeline of the conflict. Israel meanwhile has its own timeline, which Trump also has only limited control over. Differences have already emerged over both the long-term goals and Israel’s strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. And while Trump insists he must have a role in choosing Iran’s new leader, there is no sign yet of large-scale internal resistance to supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, chosen at the weekend to replace his slain father. If Mojtaba Khamenei and the regime survive, Operation Epic Fury would be “remembered as the Mother of All Lawnmowers” for having only skimmed the surface of things, Walter Russell Mead wrote in The Wall Street Journal. Trump could then leave an even more dangerous situation, the Soufan Center’s Clarke said, with a “rump IRGC” going all out for a nuclear bomb, and the risk of various ethic groups launching a huge insurgency in the heart of the Middle East. “If it’s Khamenei’s son or another hardliner, what’s different?” said Clarke. “It’s now like a wounded animal, which is arguably more dangerous.” AFP

that God was not to be feared because He would punish. “Do not be afraid to sin because God will punish you. Be afraid to sin because sin brings its own punishment,” De la Rosa said.

as cases in point self-flagellation and crucifixion, traditions that Filipinos practice during the Lenten Season. De la Rosa said most people find it hard to accept that God loves His people without condition, and fail to recognize Jesus’ words of forgiveness on the cross, adding Jesus reminded His people that real power and real strength lies on one’s ability “to control his desire to retaliate and to inflict punishment on others.” The second word: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” Gospel of Luke 23:43. Now it is not just the religious leaders or the soldiers that mock Jesus, but even one of the criminals. But the criminal on the right speaks up for Jesus, explaining the two criminals are receiving their just due, and then pointing to Jesus, says, “this man has done nothing wrong.” Then, turning to Jesus, he asks, “Jesus, remember me when you come in your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). The repentant sinner had enormous faith in Jesus – far more than the doubting Thomas, one of His own Apostles. Indeed, we are all sinners. We also know that, if we repent, God grants us forgiveness and we will be welcomed into

His kingdom when we die. Jesus spoke of forgiveness twice on the Cross: First, He asked His Father God to forgive those who put Him to death and now, despite His pain and suffering, He offers a promise of mercy and life everlasting to the criminal hanging beside Him. Jesus offers the faithful the same promise. So how do we make it to paradise? We pray. We repent. We live out the example of Jesus, our savior. And when we make mistakes – which we will – we ask for forgiveness. Fr. Marnel Mejia of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, in His own reflection which we refer to for this purpose, had recounted how our first parents, Adam and Eve, lost paradise by their disobedience and how God promised He would restore man back to this state. As proof that paradise is now restored for man, Jesus, who had gone through His passion, promised the repentant thief that he would be with Him in paradise. (The author, active in the Student Catholic Action and the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine in his college years, is a freelance writer who writes orations for necrological services as well as theses and dissertations for graduate students.)

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As proof that paradise is now restored for man, Jesus, who had gone through His passion, promised the repentant thief that he would be with Him in paradise He also explained that some Christians have the built-in desire to be punished because they wrongly believe that was the only way by which God would love them. People in turn have “transformed themselves into other gods” who punish their own selves, De la Rosa said, citing

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Polls so far show historically low support among Americans for the war

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Will Trump blink on Iran as pressure mounts?

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participation in peace processes. Drawing on its experience, the Philippines will focus on bridging divides, strengthening peacekeeping, and reforming global governance to reflect 21st century realities, according to these observers.

development, and bridging global divides. As a country that successfully used arbitration (2016 South China Sea ruling), the Philippines can lead in promoting a rules-based resolution to conflicts and defending maritime freedom. Drawing on experience in the Bangsamoro peace process, the Philippines can provide a balanced voice to “calm voices of division” and promote inclusive peacebuilding, especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. As a nation highly vulnerable to climate change, the Philippines can advocate for stronger climate resilience and push for the operationalization of the “Loss and Damage Fund” to assist vulnerable nations. The Philippines can and will also advocate for the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, ensuring women are central to conflict resolution and peace negotiations. As chair of the Like-Minded Group of Middle-Income Countries, the Philippines can advocate for the specific needs of developing nations and demand reforms in global financing and governance structures With a history of contributing peacekeepers to various missions, the Philippines brings a unique, “small country” perspective that emphasizes diplomatic engagement over military power, acting as a crucial mediator in international disputes. We are counting the weeks to June 2026.

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Netanyahu vows hard line on Hezbollah B

EIRUT – Israel renewed its strikes on Beirut on Thursday, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that if the Lebanese government did not disarm Hezbollah, Israel would do the job “on the ground”.

HEZBOLLAH AND IRAN. Smoke rises after an Israeli air strike targeted an area in the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital Beirut on Thursday. The Israeli military said it had begun a wave of strikes across Beirut, after it warned residents of a central neighborhood of the Lebanese capital it would target a building there. Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war last week when Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah attacked Israel in response to the killing of the Iranian supreme leader during US-Israeli strikes. AFP

Sirens at Incirlik base, key NATO facility in Turkey ANKARA – Sirens wailed early on Friday at Turkey’s Incirlik airbase, a key NATO facility where US troops are stationed near the southern city of Adana, state news agency Anadolu reported. There was no immediate official comment on the incident, which took place four days after NATO air defenses shot down a ballistic missile in Turkish airspace that was fired from Iran, the second in five days. Residents of Adana, which lies 10 kilometers from the base, were woken up at 3:25 am by sirens, which sounded for around five minutes, according to the Ekonomim business news website. It said a red alert sounded at the base. Several people posted mobile phone footage on social media of a fast-moving object that appeared to be on fire moving through the night sky as police and ambulance sirens wailed through the streets, it said. Defense news platform SavunmaSanayiST said the objects were “believed to be fragments from a third ballistic missile” or from the interceptor, which had entered the atmosphere and burnt up before falling to the ground. NATO had on Monday confirmed shooting down a second ballistic missile fired from Iran, prompting Ankara to warn Tehran against “provocative steps”. The announcement came shortly after Washington said it was closing down its consulate in Adana, urging all American citizens to leave southeastern Turkey. Later that day, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian phoned Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan and denied the missile had been fired from Iran. Since the US-Israeli war against Iran started, Tehran has launched strikes across the Middle East. Turkey had appeared to have been spared. The Incirlik air base is an important NATO facility that has been used by US troops for decades, but which also hosts military personnel, including from Spain and Poland, the base’s official website says. US troops are also stationed at Kurecik, another Turkish base in the central Malatya province which houses an earlywarning radar system that NATO describes as a “key element” of its missile shield, and which can detect Iranian missile launches. AFP

“You are playing with fire,” Benjamin Netanyahu said to Lebanese authorities during a press conference, as Israeli jets carried out three strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs -- two without prior warning -- according to the state-run National News Agency. Referring to the Lebanese government’s stated commitment to disarm the Iran-backed group, the premier added “if you do not do so, it is clear that we will”. “How will we do it? On the ground. With ground forces and other things,” he said. Earlier Thursday the Israeli military had announced “a wave of strikes targeting Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure across Beirut”, with AFPTV footage showing dark smoke rising into the sky above two districts in the heart of the city. One of the strikes hit a building in Bashoura, adjacent to Beirut’s commercial centre, where many large companies and government institutions are based. An Israeli army spokesperson accused Hezbollah of “hiding... millions of dollars” under the building. That was followed by another attack

Moscow piles pressure on US over oil sanctions WASHINGTON, DC – Moscow said on Friday the global energy market “cannot remain stable” without its oil, piling pressure on Washington to lift more sanctions as the Middle East war strangles supplies. The United States has eased some oil sanctions on Russia imposed over its invasion of Ukraine, prompting backlash from Western allies who urged Washington to keep up restrictions as the Ukraine conflict drags into its fifth year. The US-Israel strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks across the Gulf region have upended the world’s energy and transport sectors, virtually halting activity in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The United States is temporarily allowing the sale of oil from Russia -- one of the world’s largest oil producers and exporters

-- that is at sea, the Treasury Department said Thursday, as nations scrambled to boost supply and bring down prices. Oil prices soared to almost $120 a barrel this week, the highest price since the pandemic. Russia’s economic envoy Kirill Dmitriev said on Friday that it was “increasingly inevitable” that Washington would lift more sanctions. “The United States is effectively acknowledging the obvious: without Russian oil, the global energy market cannot remain stable,” Dmitriev posted on Telegram. “Amid the growing energy crisis, further easing of restrictions on Russian energy sources appears increasingly inevitable, despite resistance from some in the

Brussels bureaucracy,” he added. But French President Emmanuel Macron, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the Group of Seven advanced economies, said that the Strait of Hormuz’s shutdown “in no way” justified lifting the sanctions on Russia. “The consensus was that we should not change our position on Russia and should maintain our efforts on Ukraine,” Macron told a G7 videoconference discussing the economic fallout from the US-Israeli war with Iran. On Thursday, the Treasury issued a license authorizing the delivery and sale of Russian crude oil and petroleum products that have been loaded on vessels on or before 12:01 am Eastern Time March 12, through 12:01 am on April 11. AFP

Saudi forces down drones after Iran vows to target oil

TEHRAN – Saudi forces intercepted more than two dozen drones Friday after Iran vowed to attack oil resources in the Middle East and said it would maintain a chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz that has sent crude prices soaring. Israel also came under attack early Friday from missiles launched by Iran, with the Israeli military saying its air defences were working to intercept them. The International Energy Agency has warned that the Middle East war could lead to “the largest supply disruption” in the industry’s history, but US President Donald Trump wrote on social media that defeating Iran’s “evil empire” was more important than crude prices. Trump has faced intense political pressure as the global economic fallout of the crisis has mounted, and he has given mixed messages as to when the US campaign might end. Iran has unleashed waves of drone and missile strikes against neighbouring states hosting US military assets, including Saudi Arabia, whose defense ministry said Friday that its forces had intercepted a total of 28 drones. The previous day, Iranian security chief Ali Larijani took aim at Trump, saying that the war “cannot be won with a few tweets” and that “we will not relent until making you sorry for this grave miscalculation.” AFP

IN BRIEF Australia minister warns vs. price gouging of fuel SYDNEY – Australia’s energy minister warned on Friday against “dangerous” price gouging of petrol as he relaxed rules on how much fuel companies needed to hold in stock in a bid to boost supply. The country -- reliant on oil imports for fuel -- has seen petrol prices spike due to panic buying since the outbreak of the war in the Middle East. In a push to boost supply, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the government would slash the Minimum Stockholding Obligation -- which guarantees a baseline level of fuel stock -- for petrol and diesel by 20 percent. “This will allow the release of up to 762 million liters of petrol and diesel from Australia’s domestic reserves, where these can be targeted towards localized market disruption,” he said in a statement. “This will take time to move through Australia’s long and complex supply chain from where fuel is held to the regional areas where it’s needed,” he said. Australia’s government has blamed price gouging by retailers for rising domestic costs of fuel. AFP

Putin’s ‘hidden hand’ seen behind Iran tactics

WAR OF ATTRITION. Demonstrators hold signs and shout slogans during a protest to call for “an end to the imperialist violence” amid the ongoing war in Iran outside MacDill Air Force Base, where US Central Command is headquartered, in Tampa, Florida, on Friday, Manila time. The previous day, Iranian security chief Ali Larijani took aim at Trump, saying the war ‘cannot be won with a few tweets’ and that ‘we will not relent until making you sorry for this grave miscalculation.’ AFP

Canadian, German and Norway leaders hold Arctic security talks

EVERYTHING CANCELED. A Venezuela road sign is pictured near the Colombia-Venezuela border checkpoint at the Atanasio Girardot International Bridge on the outskirts of Cucuta, Colombia on Friday, Manila time. The first foreign visit of Venezuela’s US-backed interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, since taking power was abruptly cancelled, just hours before she was due to arrive in Colombia, a Colombian foreign ministry source told AFP. AFP

on a Beirut branch of the Hezbollahlinked financial firm Al Qard Al Hassan in the downtown neighborhood of Zoukak El-Blat. “I address you today while Beirut is being bombed, as are its suburbs, our south, and our Bekaa,” Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said in a speech to the nation. “It is a war we did not want; on the contrary, we are working day and night to bring it to an end.” Later Thursday, Israel’s military said it had struck several Hezbollah command posts in a new wave of strikes targeting Beirut and southern Lebanon. The Israeli military released footage of a large fireball that it said showed the destruction of Hezbollah command centres in Beirut. AFP could not immediately verify the video. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said earlier that he had ordered troops to “prepare for expanding” attacks in Lebanon, as Israel issued an evacuation warning to all residents south of the Zahrani River, some 45 kilometres (28 miles) from the border. AFP

OSLO – Canadian, German and Norwegian leaders were scheduled to meet in the Norwegian Arctic on Friday to discuss the region’s fragile security situation, against the backdrop of a large NATO exercise. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who are making separate visits to the Scandinavian country, will meet their host Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in Bardufoss, a military town located above the Arctic Circle where NATO’s Cold Response exercise is taking place. The High North has long been shielded by the concept of “Arctic exceptionalism” -- the notion that the region had its own set of unwritten rules of cooperation which were immune to geopolitical rivalries. But regional dynamics between Russia and the West have changed since the start of the war in Ukraine and due to US President Donald Trump’s threats to take over Greenland.

“In the face of new threats, we are deepening defence collaboration with our Arctic partners to create a stronger, more prosperous, and more secure world for Canada and for all,” Carney said in a statement ahead of the visit. Around 25,000 troops from 14 countries including the United States are taking part in the Cold Response exercise, held every two years and aimed at training together in extreme winter conditions. This year’s gathering has been impacted by the war in the Middle East, with France redirecting its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the eastern Mediterranean. After visiting troops on Friday, the three leaders are due to hold a press conference around 3:30 pm (1430 GMT). “We share the conviction that as European NATO allies, we must do more to secure the High North as NATO,” Merz said at the World Economic Summit in Davos in January. AFP

LONDON – UK Defense Minister John Healey has suggested that Russia was influencing Iran’s use of drone attacks in its war with the United States and Israel. Healey said Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “hidden hand” may be behind some of the tactics deployed by Tehran in the Middle East conflict, which started when the United States and Israel struck Iran on Feb. 28. He told reporters that officials were analyzing an Iranian-made drone that hit the UK’s Akrotiri air force base in Cyprus on March 1 “for any evidence of Russian or any other foreign components and parts”. “We will update you and appropriately publish any findings from that when we’ve got them,” he said during a visit to Britain’s military headquarters in Northwood, near London. “But I think no one will be surprised to believe that Putin’s hidden hand is behind some of the Iranian tactics, potentially some of their capabilities as well, not least because one world leader that is benefiting from the sky high oil prices at the moment is Putin,” he added. AFP

Jury begins deliberations in socmed addiction trial LOS ANGELES – Jury deliberations are set to begin Friday (Saturday, Manila time) in a landmark social media addiction trial accusing Meta and YouTube of intentionally trying to hook young internet users. Closing arguments wrapped here Thursday with rival attorneys trying to convince jurors the evidence backed their side of the clash. The verdict could turn on the question of whether family and other real world troubles, or YouTube and Meta apps such as Instagram, were to blame for mental woes of the woman who filed the suit. An attorney for the woman, a 20-yearold California woman identified as Kaley G.M., used a cupcake metaphor, arguing that while only a small bit of baking soda might be in a recipe it was essential for making the pastry. “It comes down to highly technical legal standards,” the plaintiff’s attorney Laura Marquez-Garrett said of the job ahead for jurors. “They could find all kinds of terrible stuff, but then determine that technically speaking, the percentage of contribution wasn’t met.” AFP

SPORTS

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

Cars, cruise add extra thrill to Southwoods Invitational golf

3x3 CHAMPS. Chiang Kai Shek won the Women’s Basketball League 3x3 13-under championship recently. Shown here are (from left) WBL commissioner Mario Montiel, Chiang Kai Shek College coach Cristina Dela Cruz and her players Irish Joyce De Guzman, Lorie Jane Araza, Junia Madison Raymundo, and Alyanna Techico during the presentation of the championship trophy. With them are Monica Jorge, Executive Director of the BEST Center Sports Inc. and coach Diana Sy.

NDIAN WELLS— Elina Svitolina sent two-time champion Iga Swiatek spinning out at Indian Wells on Thursday to line up a semi-ﬁnal meeting with Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina.

Ninth-ranked Ukrainian Svitolina surged home to beat world number two Swiatek 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 while Rybakina thwarted Jessica Pegula’s comeback bid in a 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) victory over the fifth-ranked American. World number one Aryna Sabalenka kept her bid for a first title in the prestigious ATP and WTA Masters 1000 event on track, holding off Canadian teen Victoria Mboko 7-6 (7/0), 6-4. The Belarusian star will face 14thranked Czech Linda Noskova, who ended the fairytale run of Australian qualifier Talia Gibson 6-2, 4-6, 6-2. Svitolina’s aggressive attack was too much for Swiatek, who coughed up eight double faults and looked out-ofsorts in the early going. The experienced Svitolina made the most of the early chances she was

Svitolina topples Swiatek; Sabalenka, Rybakina win

Elina Svitolina of Ukraine celebrates her win against Iga Swiatek of Poland in the quarterfinals during Day 9 of the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in Indian Wells, California. AFP

given then held her nerve in a tense third set. She gained the lone break of the final frame as she won the last three games to take the match. “I wouldn’t say it was the perfect match, but I could stay in the match and fight and find a way after losing second set,” Svitolina said. “There is no champion who is waiting for the mistakes, and you have to really try to set up yourself in a good position to attack,” she added. “I was trying to really open up the court and try to take the advantage, because Iga is such an aggressive player, and she moves really well. So if you don’t take the opportunity, she’s going to take it.” Svitolina closed it out in style, giving herself a match point with an

ace and nailing a forehand volley to reach the Indian Wells semi-finals for the first time since 2019. “You make me feel a bit old with that stat,” quipped the 31-year-old Svitolina, who returned to the top 10 in the world rankings in February for the first time since 2021 and the first time since becoming a mother. It was just her second career win over Swiatek in six meetings and her first since 2023. But the victory continued a rich run of form in 2026 that has seen Svitolina capture the title in Auckland and finish runner up in Dubai last month. For six-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek it was another disappointing quarter-final exit this year after she fell at the same stage in the Australian Open and in Doha. AFP

Cabstars master Griffins, gain share of volley 3rd AEP Cabstars fended off a late rally by VNS Always Bright Laticrete and rolled to a 25-18, 25-19, 25-22 victory to gain a share of third spot in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Filoil Playtime Centre on Friday. After cruising through the first two sets, the Cabstars ran into stiff resistance from the Griffins, who regrouped and began to find their rhythm in the third. VNS kept the set close and refused to back down, leading to a pressure-packed finish. Through the combined efforts of Winfred Santos and Kian Pablo, VNS threatened to within, 20-21. But the Cabstars showed grace under pressure, scoring four of the last six points to thwart the Griffins and raise their record to 3-3, in a tie with Alpha Insurance, in the tournament organized by Sports Vision and supported by Alpha Insurance, Black Mamba, Premiere

The AEP Cabstars celebrate a scored point.

Dela Noche sustained his stellar play for the Cabstars, coming away with 18 points on 14-of-29 spikes. He also made four service aces. Schnake, a late addition to the team, added 14 points on 10 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, while middle blockers Nas Gwaza and Michael

Doria contributed with nine and seven points. respectively. AEP outscored VNS across all scoring departments, posting a 45-37 edge in attacks, dominating the blocks, 7-4, and firing seven aces against VNS none, typifying the Griffins’ struggles in reception.

Arellano wins 7th straight title in NCAA cheerleading competition

The Arellano University Chiefsquad

Hitters defend top spot against Titans Games Saturday 4 p.m. – PLDT vs Choco Mucho 6:30 p.m. – Capital1 vs Cignal

Games Wednesday 3 p.m. – 3B vs Savouge 5 p.m. – AEP Cabstars vs Criss Cross

EMS and ArenaPlus. Jay Rack Dela Noche and Jared Schnake unleashed back-to-back hits to put AEP at 23-20 and even when the Griffins pulled to within one again, the Cabstars duo delivered the clutch hits to secure the victory in just 70 minutes. “Nagbunga ‘yung practice games namin, tapos ‘yung team bonding namin so kailangan talaga namin ng maraming ganon for chemistry, para makilala namin ‘yung isa’t isa kaya siguro naging ganito ‘yung outcome ng game,” said AEP head coach Kitty Antiporta, whose team was formed just weeks before the Open Conference.

THREE lucky golfers will drive home brand new cars while several others stand to win a host of high-end prizes when the Southwoods Invitational 2026 gets going Monday (March 16) at the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Clubs Masters and Legends courses in Carmona, Cavite. But beyond the competition on the fairways, it is the highly anticipated raffle draw that adds another layer of excitement to one of the country’s premier member-guest tournaments. For years, the event has built a reputation for giving away cars even if no player scores a hole-in one. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines (Mitsubishi Destinator GLX 1.5G Turbo 2WD CVT) and Toyota Silang, Cavite (Toyota Raize 1.2 M/T) have consistently delivered vehicles through the grand raffle draw, ensuring that a few fortunate participants still drive home in brand-new rides when the awards rites are held on March 21. The AMSI Group of Companies (Calamba Doctors Hospital), Huawei/LF Joy Solar and CWC headline the list of Platinum sponsors, while Bebang’s HaloHalo, Lavie Kitchenwares and Malveda Properties, Era Health Innovation and Robin Jeon lead the Gold sponsors. Adding even more buzz this year is BYD, which will stake a BYD Seal DM-Dynamic for a hole-in-one or for the raffle, further boosting the stakes for the tournament’s 800 expected players from 400 teams. Sponsors are likewise contributing a wide array of luxury prizes, ensuring the raffle remains a major highlight of the week Ogawa is offering a premium massage chair, while RCI and Baron Travel are putting up a seven-night Mediterranean cruise aboard Brilliance of the Seas for two, complete with airfare. Meanwhile, Okada Manila is staking a casino free play worth P100,000 for a hole-in-one and will raffle off P200,000 worth of overnight accommodation gift certificates with breakfast should no ace be recorded.

THE Arellano dynasty in the NCAA cheerleading scene continued on Thursday. For the seventh straight time, the Chiefsquad won gold in the NCAA Season 101 Cheerleading Competition presented by the Philippine Sports Commission at Mall of Asia Arena. Arellano extended its championship streak that began in 2017 during the Grand Old League’s 92nd season after registering a total score of 231 points. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga bata ko, kung ‘di dahil sa kanila, ‘di magiging successful ‘tong seventh straight,” coach Lucky San Juan said. “Ito ‘yong challenge, kahit sabihin nating nanalo [ngayon], mahirap pa din para sa next year.” Much like last year, the podium’s ensemble remained the same. In Season 100, when Arellano won its sixth straight chip, Perpetual Help

snagged silver while Letran won bronze. In the same exact fashion, the Perpsquad and the Letran Cheering Squad rounded out the podium once more. Perpetual Help tallied 221 while Letran scored 199.5. Even with the added pressure of winning the cheerleading trophy for the seventh straight time, San Juan’s composure for his Chiefsquad never wavered. Ang laki ng tiwala ko sa kanila. Sobra nilang inaral at nireview ‘yang mga ‘yan.” Arellano took home a grand prize of 100,00 pesos while Perpetual and Letran won 75,000 and 50,000 pesos, respectively. Emilio Aguinaldo College missed out on a podium finish in fourth place after finishing with 185.5 points. Jose Rizal University cracked the Top 5 after totaling 162 markers.

PLDT looks to tighten its grip on the top spot while Cignal aims to secure the second Qualifying Round berth when they take on separate rivals Saturday in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the FilOil Playtime Centre. Already assured of an automatic spot in the next phase, the High Speed Hitters are not expected to slow down as they face the unpredictable Choco Mucho Flying Titans in the 4 p.m. showdown. PLDT enters the match with momentum after contrasting victories – a gritty five-set escape against the Farm Fresh Foxies and a dominant straight-set win over the Galeries Tower Highrisers – and is determined to strengthen its hold of the lead with a seventh win against a lone defeat heading into the crucial phase of the tournament in two weeks. “Actually ‘yung feeling hindi ‘yung malapit na ‘yung elims eh, kasi napakabigat nung remaining games namin so ‘yun nga, nire-remind ko rin naman sa players na mahirap talaga tumingin ng sobrang layo,” said High Speed Hitters head coach Rald Ricafort. “Talagang one game at a time muna. ‘Yun nga, happy kami na nairaos ngayon kasi after this game, sasabak ulit kami ng Sabado so two days lang kami magpeprepare. Hopefully mairaos namin ‘yung remaining tough games,” he added. On paper, PLDT hold the edge with a roster peaking at the right time. Savi Davison continues to anchor the attack, supported by seasoned Kim Dy, Majoy Baron and Mika Reyes, while veteran setter Kim Fajardo has provided steady orchestration that has helped the team thrive in crucial moments. The High Speed Hitters’ defensive discipline, both on the floor and at the net, has also been key in close situations, giving the High Speed Hitters a more balanced and stable approach as they head deeper into the conference.

SPORTS

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

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

Jorge, Young record an ace each in Bill Shaw golf tilt

Nana Carbonell (right) is congratulated by UP teammate and fellow finalist Mariel Flores after claiming the first gold of the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Fencing Championships on Friday at the Makati Coliseum

Carbonell crowned fencing champ in all-Maroon finale U

NIVERSITY of the Philippines dominated the women’s individual foil, producing a 1-2 finish as Nana Carbonell bested teammate Mariel Flores, 15–5, in an all-Fighting Maroons final to claim the first gold of the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Fencing Championships on Friday at the Makati Coliseum. The Season 86 winner and former national team pool member breezed through the competition. Carbonell defeated University of Santo Tomas’ Ruby Kate Sardenia, 15–5, in the quarterfinals and cruised past University of the East rookie Alyzabeth Gilbert with the same 15–5 score in the semifinals. The Fighting Maroons now take an early lead in the women’s division, ahead of the Lady Warriors, who

claimed both bronze medals through Gilbert and former three-time MVP Queen Dalmacio. Reigning individual champion and MVP Allysah Catantan sat out the season to focus on her licensure exams, adding more pressure on Carbonell. “Mas kinabahan nga ko kasi my biggest opponent other than her is myself. Parang, hearing the pressure from other people, nararamdaman ko rin siya; baka ma-disappoint ko sila ‘pag hindi ako makapag-perform ng well,” the now two-time foil champion shared. “I just focused na lang on every point, and I just listened to my coaches. I just executed what we did in training,” Carbonell added. In the men’s division, Kurt Maruquez made his final UAAP stint count, delivering a second straight gold for De La Salle University in the sabre individual event. After years of missing the podium with UST, Maruquez finally claimed his much-awaited gold following a 15–8 victory over UE’s Khiane Felipe in the final. “I really prepared for this season, especially during my first two seasons with UST, I didn’t get a podium finish in the individuals. And this is my last season, so

I really wanted to give it my all,” said the graduating senior. “No regrets; it was all worth it. It is something I will cherish,” Maruquez added. Last season’s champion, Christian Buenaventura, secured one of the bronzes for the Green Fencers, while Red Warriors’ Christian Anthony Concepcion shared third place. Guest school PAREF Southridge School also made history as Enrico Fuentes captured its first-ever individual gold. After previously collecting a bronze in swimming and a championship in baseball, Fuentes denied Junior Warriors’ Brynt Ember in the boys’ epee final, winning 15–9. Ateneo’s Samuel Gatmaytan and Gabriel Bunagan claimed the two bronze medals in the event. “I was really happy that I got the first-ever gold for Southridge. It is my last year, and I’m glad to have ended it with a bang,” Fuentes said. “I’m also happy that I had a great start, as I have set a standard for my teammates that they could also achieve great things.” The individual competitions in men’s epee, girls’ foil, and boys’ sabre are still ongoing as of publishing.

Candon City to host return of Volleyball All-Star event THE stars of Philippine professional volleyball will shine together once more as the Volleyball All-Star Showcase makes its long-awaited return on Friday, May 1 at the Candon City Arena. The special event will feature two All-Star Games highlighting the best players from the Premier Volleyball League and the Spikers’ Turf, bringing together the brightest talents in both the women’s and men’s ranks for a night of celebration and competition. The official logo for the showcase was revealed on Friday, symbolizing the return of the league-wide spectacle — the first since 2019 and the

first ever in the professional era of the PVL. Designed by Mark Ron Castaneda and Juan Lorenzo Navarro, the logo blends elements from both leagues. Its design incorporates visual cues from the PVL and Spikers’ Turf identities, representing the unity of the two competitions under one stage. At the base of the logo is a tribute to the host city, highlighting Candon City as the inaugural venue for the revived showcase, along with the year of the event. A prominent feature of the design is the eight yellow stars, symbolizing

the “team” on the court — one star for each of the six players, one for the libero, and one representing the head coach guiding the squad. The color palette also draws directly from the branding of both the PVL and Spikers’ Turf, combining the signature colors that have defined the two leagues and giving life to the unified All-Star celebration. With the return of the All-Star spectacle after nearly a decade, the Volleyball All-Star Showcase is set to bring fans a festive display of skill, camaraderie, and star power as the country’s top volleyball stars converge in Candon City, Ilocos Sur.

Arida shines at Kosmas Pickle Fest, captures 2 golds CEBU City—Ariella Arida blended poise and precision on the pickleball court, showing that beauty and sporting excellence can go hand in hand as she captured two gold medals in the Kosmas Pickle Fest 2026 Adult Categories at the Net and Paddle courts here Thursday. The former Miss Universe Philippines teamed up with Sherry Cu to defeat Chatty May and June Andrea Gonzales, 11-7, and capture the women’s doubles 35+ crown. Displaying soft hands in dink exchanges and sharp reflexes in volley battles, the pair controlled the non-volley zone, patiently constructing points before sealing them with crisp put-away volleys. Arida returned to the court later and completed a golden double, partnering with Christian Andres to beat Cu and Marc Tagle, 15-10, in the mixed doubles 35+ final. Using deep returns, accurate crosscourt dinks and timely drives, the beauty queen-turned-celebrity and Andres dictated the rallies, forcing errors while maintaining pressure at the kitchen line. The Alaminos, Laguna native showed how much her game has evolved since taking up pickleball three years ago. Her steady serves, crisp third-shot drops and calm

net play reflected a player who has grown comfortable reading angles, constructing points and finishing rallies with confidence. Arida emerged as one of only two players to bag multiple gold medals in the five-day tournament organized by Kosmas Athletic Ventures Corp. and Sunrise Events, Inc., which also serves as a development platform for emerging Filipino pickleball talents. Titles in the High Intermediate division were still being contested at press time as emerging talents prepared for the Rising Stars U19 Sectional Tournament scheduled Saturday and Sunday with the winners earning berths in the PCL Asia Grand Finals scheduled in April on Hainan Island, China. Backed by PCL Asia and supported by Milo, Summit and Pocari Sweat, the program aims to provide young players with competitive exposure and a pathway to international play as pickleball continues its rapid growth across the region. Pickleball’s popularity in Cebu has steadily grown since the sport was first introduced through a clinic in 2016. What began as a small initiative has since developed into a vibrant local scene, with more players taking up the fast-rising sport and competing in organized tournaments.

Ariella Arida prepares for a forehand return as teammate Christian Andres looks on during their mixed doubles gold medal match in Kosmas Pickle Fest 2026.

Christian Espinosa matched Arida’s two-gold feat. He teamed up with Jahleel Plasabas to rout John Paul Juaton and Benjohn Juaton, 15-2, in the men’s doubles 20+ final before partnering with Mary Seiw Yee to beat Janlady Fuentes

and Dan Galang, 15-6, in the mixed doubles 20+ championship. Kevin Geniston and Andrei Sencio took bronze in the men’s doubles 20+, while Sophia Calanog and Jarond Mesina finished third in the mixed doubles 20+.

RAOUL Jorge and Samuel Young each recorded holes-in-one in the ongoing 35th Bill Shaw Golf Classic held at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. Jorge made the feat on Hole No. 11 (West course) and stands to win a BMW 520i while Young got his ace on Hole No. 8 (also at West) and the Get Go golf cart. Still up for grab are Toyota Ativ Hybrid, Lynk & Co. 06 sedan, Ogawa massage chair, Gransportivo golf cart, Chery Tiggo Cross, Mercedes-Benz GLC and C-Class, BMW Motorcycle, Mitsubishi Expander, Jetour X50, Geely EX5 EM-I, Foton Wonder, P100,000 cash and P100,000 worth of K&G products. Shell, San Miguel Corporation, Luxe Organix, South Links Estate, Beyond Sight, Yakult and Boysen are presenting the four-day event alongside New Golden City Builders, Armored Panda by King Panda, Newport World Resort/Travellers International Hotel Group, CWC and Peerless/Champion. Evo Energi and Go Prime Technology are Diamond sponsors. Gold sponsors include GG&A, Ascent Dev. Const., Big BMK Distribution, Handling Innovation, Peregrine Eye & Laser Institute, Rombe Phils., BellCorp, GolfX and Paragon Trading & Services. Other backers are Cibelles Insurance and Ninno Rios plus 608, ACCLI, Ayala Land Premier, Cong. Brian Yamsuan, Atty. Chito Cruz, Don Lee Builders, Double LND Manpower, Relaxamento, Friends of 608, G&W Clubshares, Hyundai Elevator Services, Highlands Prime Inc., Arlo Aluminum, Mikey & Angela Arroyo, Oriental and Motolite, Powerball Marketing, PGA Clubshares, Rebisco, Run Run, Security Bank, Yakiniku Like, SM Prime, Smash Factor, Stradcom, Specialists Clubshares & Brokers, Metro Megamix Concrete, San Marino and Bistro Primos.

Miranda lifts Muntinlupa past Ilagan AGEM Miranda scored the game’s last seven points and lifted the Muntinlupa Cagers past the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys, 75-73, on Thursday in the 2026 MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Preseason Invitational at the One Arena Cainta in Rizal Province. Shining against his former team, Miranda tallied 25 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists to earn best player honors as Muntinlupa ended its stint in Group B of the 18-team event preceding the MPBL Eighth Season with a 4-4 slate. Shawn Argente and Robin Nayve supported Miranda in the tight game marked by 15 lead changes and 9 ties with 11 and 10 points, respectively. The Cowboys, hampered by their poor shooting from afar, converting only 6 of 26 triple tries, exited with a 3-5 card despite Arth Dela Cruz’s 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists, and Pedrito Galanza’s 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Binan Tatak Gel routed Bacolod Maskarra, 128-74, in the first game and boosted its playoff drive. The Lagunenses led from the start and never eased up, finishing the Group A elimination phase with a 5-3 record, tying the Mindoro Tamaraws and moving ahead of the Gensan Warriors (5-2) in the race for the third and last playoff slot in the nine-team group. Powerhouse Abra Solid North took the top spot and an outright semifinal berth with a 7-0 record, while Batangas also advanced with a 6-2 card. Binan’s Bam Lopez posted 18 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds, while recruit Nic Cabanero tallied 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists to clinch best player honors. Jeymark Mallari also delivered with 16 points, 4 assists and 2 rebounds, and so did Jopet Soriano with 12 points and 8 rebounds. Bacolod, which tumbled to 1-6, got 20 points, 3 assists and 2 rebounds from Rev Diputado, 11 points and 2 rebounds from Jameson Hiro, and 10 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists from Jeremy Cruz. The Preseason continues at the same venue on Saturday, with games pitting Bacolod against Bataan at 3 p.m., Pasay against Zamboanga at 5 p.m., and Abra against Gensan at 7 p.m.

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

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

SCG GREENOVATION.

SCG, a regional and global leader in sustainable building materials, reinforces its commitment to green innovation under the theme ‘SCG Greenovation for Healthy Living Space’ at WORLDBEX 2026, from March 12 to 15, 2026 at the World Trade Center Manila. Unveiling the SCG Greenovation Booth are (from left) Khun Chanon Sangkaew, manager of the Construction Value Creation Department and Rangsant Srimangkorn, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission of the Royal Thai Embassy.

World Bank: PH hits upper-middle income threshold By Thony Rose Lesaca

PH jobless rate climbed Unemployment rate in January to 43-month high of 5.8% 13.2% T Underemployment 5.8%

rate in January

62.3% Labor force participation rate

HE Philippine unemployment rate rose to 5.8 percent in January 2026 from 4.3 percent in the same month last year, according to the latest Labor Force Survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). It was the highest jobless rate in 43 months, or since June 2022. It was higher than 4.4 percent in December 2025. Data from the PSA showed that the number of unemployed individuals reached 2.96 million, up from 2.17 million recorded in January 2025 and 2.54 million reported in October 2025. The labor force participation rate fell to 62.3 percent from 63.9 percent a year ago, translating to 50.89 million Filipinos aged 15 and

over who were either employed or seeking work. The employment rate dropped to 94.2 percent in January 2026 compared with 95.7 percent in the previous year, with the total number of employed persons sliding to 47.94 million from 48.49 million. “Given elevated geopolitical tensions and global uncertainties, strategic policies are needed to bolster labor market resilience. The government continues to pursue a comprehensive response to support

affected workers in the short term while fostering a dynamic and robust labor market in the medium and long term,” Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said. Balisacan said the government is strengthening safety nets to provide immediate relief to affected workers amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. These include targeted fuel subsidies for transport operators, farmers and fisherfolk, as well as measures to ease commuting costs and maximize existing emergency employment assistance programs such as the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers and other livelihood programs.

THE Philippines’ gross national income (GNI) per capita has reached the threshold of uppermiddle income countries, the World Bank said Friday. It made the statement with the approval by its board of executive directors of $800 million in financing to help the Philippines strengthen fiscal resilience and improve workforce skills for more productive jobs. The bank said the country achieved the threshold on the back of inclusive GDP growth since 2010 that has enabled the economy to double in size every 13.5 years. “Yet, the country today faces domestic and external shocks that underscore the value of ongoing fiscal and structural reforms, to reach higher, more job-rich growth, and to reduce vulnerability to shocks,” it said. The Philippines Growth and Jobs Development Policy Loan focuses on strengthening fiscal management through revenue reforms, enhancing private investment opportunities by lowering business costs and building labor force capabilities through education and innovation, the bank said. World Bank division director for the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei Zafer Mustafaoglu said the lender is proud to support the country’s priorities in turning strong growth into better-paying jobs.

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URC to sell 21% stake in Nissin PH stocks fell for second day joint venture to Japanese partner as Middle East tensions worsen F By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL stocks retreated for a second straight day Friday on diminishing hopes for an end to tensions in the Middle East. The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index slipped 54.64 points, or 0.89 percent, to end the week at 6,058.94. The broader all shares index declined 23.29 points, or 0.68 percent, to 3,382.11. “The Philippine market’s decline is in line with the broader downturn in the global markets as investors reacted to escalating tensions in the Middle East,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said. “Threats of continued increase in oil prices heightened concerns over inflation and potential policy tightening.” Limlingan said the weakening peso against the dollar also made investors more cautious, leading to subdued trading activity. The peso continued its downward slide to 59.735 to the U.S. dollar Friday from 59.385 on Thursday. Except for the industrial sector, which rose 0.16 percent, all indices ended in the red. The mining and oil index dropped the most, down 1.81 percent, followed by services, which decreased by 1.24 percent. Value turnover was thin at P4.79 billion, excluding block sales. Foreign selling accelerated, with net outflows reaching P3.66 billion. Bucking the trend, shares of Semirara Mining and Power Corp. jumped 4.71 percent to P30. The movement followed the company’s indication of interest in partnering with Meralco PowerGen Corp. for an upcoming bidding of coal mining assets. Oil prices held gains above $100 Friday and most equity markets dropped after Iran’s leader called for the blocking of the crucial Strait of Hormuz and the opening up of new fronts in the war against the United States and Israel. With the conflict heading towards its third week and showing no signs of ending, investors are growing increasingly worried about an extended crisis that could fan inflation and hammer the global economy. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

OOD manufacturer Universal Robina Corp. (URC) is selling its 21 percent stake in an instant noodle joint venture to Nissin Foods Asia Ltd. (NFA).

URC said Friday its board approved the sale of 39.69 million shares in Nissin Universal Robina Corp. (NURC) to NFA. The transaction will increase NFA’s ownership in the joint venture to 70 percent from 49 percent, while URC’s stake will decline to 30 percent from 51 percent.

The companies said the move aims to “refine their partnership” and leverage the global expertise of the Japanese food group. Under the new arrangement, NFA will take a larger leadership role in product innovation and brand building. URC will remain the local operating partner, managing

day-to-day operations through its distribution network. Established in 1994, NURC manufactures and sells instant noodles in the Philippines under brands developed by the Japanese group. The final acquisition cost is expected to be finalized before the end of the year. Closing is targeted for Jan. 7, 2027, subject to approval by the Philippine Competition Commission. Separately, URC reported that net income from continuing operations stood at P11.6 billion in 2025, down 9 percent year-on-year because of

tempered foreign exchange gains. Core net income attributable to the parent, which excludes extraordinary items, amounted to P11 billion, down 4 percent for the year as high coffee input costs compressed margins. Consolidated sales reached P168 billion, up 4 percent year-on-year, driven by broad-based volume growth across all divisions. Branded consumer foods recorded P115 billion in sales, up 5 percent year-on-year, with domestic sales rising 5 percent and international sales increasing 4 percent.

WATER PARTNERSHIP. Manila Water Philippine Ventures Inc. , a non-East Zone subsidiary of Manila Water, through its operating unit Estate Water,

formalizes a 30-year partnership with Cathay Land Inc. to enhance water and wastewater services across key Cathay Land developments in Silang, Cavite. Signing for Cathay Land are president and CEO Jeffrey Ng, vice president Mary Ann Kocencio and deputy finance head Kim Lorenz Dizon. Representing MWPV and Estate Water are Melvin John Tan, chief operating officer for non-East Zone, Roberto Vasquez, regional operations group director for VisMin and Estate Water, and Barny Kim, Estate Water general manager.

SEC plans to end four-year ban on new online lending platforms THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to lift its moratorium on the registration of new online lending platforms (OLPs) while imposing higher capital requirements and stricter consumer protection rules. In a draft memorandum circular issued for public comment, the SEC said lifting the moratorium aims to support responsible innovation in the lending sector, boost economic activity and ensure that digital operations follow financial inclusion goals. The ban has been in place since

Nov. 5, 2021. The draft rules also aim to curb abusive debt collection practices in line with the Truth in Lending Act, the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act and the Data Privacy Act. Under the proposal, financing and lending companies will face higher paid-up capital requirements based on the number of platforms they operate. Financing companies without an OLP must maintain a minimum paid-up capital of P20 million, while lending companies

must have at least P10 million. to meet the new capital requirements For financing firms operating through a compliance plan. one OLP, the minimum capital will To strengthen consumer protection, rise to P30 million. It increases the SEC will prohibit lenders from to P60 million for two to five accessing borrowers’ contact lists, MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK platforms CYAN and P100 million for social media contacts or messaging up to 10 platforms. Lending records. Platforms will also be companies must maintain P20 barred from sending automated million for one OLP, P30 million debt collection messages, except for for two to five platforms and P50 neutral payment reminders. million for up to 10 platforms. Lenders are also prohibited from The SEC also plans to cap the outsourcing or transferring core number of platforms per company lending functions to third-party at 10 to ensure oversight. Existing service providers. companies will be given three years Jenniffer B. Austria

ICTSI eyes 2028 completion for first phase of $800-m Batangas terminal By Darwin G. Amojelar INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) said Friday it expects to complete the first phase of its $800-million South Luzon Container Terminal (SLCT) by 2028. The Razon-led port operator said construction is in full swing for the facility located within the Bauan International Port in Batangas, about 110 kilometers south of Manila. Once finished, the terminal will be the second-largest in the Philippines. The project is designed to boost trade across the archipelago and support industrial and energy projects in Southern Luzon. ICTSI said the new capacity will streamline national logistics by complementing existing

International Container Terminal Services Inc. begins construction on the $800 million South Luzon Container Terminal in Batangas, set to become the second-largest port in the Philippines by 2028.

operations at the Port of Manila. “It’s never easy to take the first step. Having a vision is one thing, but making it happen on the ground requires strong partnership with local leaders who are committed to delivering critical infrastructure,” ICTSI executive vice president Christian Gonzalez said. The terminal occupies a naturally protected cove on Batangas Bay, which the company expects will provide operational stability as the site prepares for ultra-large container vessels. At full development, SLCT will feature an 800-meter quay, 38 hectares of yard, and an 18-meter berth depth. The terminal is expected to have an annual capacity exceeding 2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).

Ayala’s core net income climbed to record P48.3b in 2025 AYALA Corp. said Friday its core net income rose 7 percent to a record P48.3 billion in 2025, lifted by stronger earnings from Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) alongside improved results from emerging businesses. Including one-off gains, the conglomerate’s reported net income jumped 46 percent to NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC P61.4 billion. The surge was driven Notice is hereby given to the public that an primarily by revaluation gains EXTRA-JUDICIAL related to fintech firm Mynt and SETTLEMENT of the late Erlinda Dysaya ALI’s sale of its stake in Alabang Torres, died intestate Commercial Corp., the company οn November 9, 2025 at 2098 Wesmere Lake said in a disclosure to the stock Drive, Plainfield, II, exchange. USA, was made and executed by and among “Our strong performance in her heirs as part of Doc. No. 14, pages 4, Book 2025 reflects the resilience of no. 32, series of 2026 our core businesses and the before Notary Public Atty. Ariel O. Labra steady progress of our emerging businesses,” Ayala chief (MS-MAR. 14/21/28, 2026)

executive Cezar Consing said. Consing added that the group is entering 2026 with greater focus on sharpening its portfolio and reinforcing balance sheet resilience despite an uncertain operating environment. BPI remained the group’s biggest contributor, posting a 7 percent increase in net income to P66.6 billion as record revenues offset higher operating expenses. ALI’s core net income grew 8 percent to P30.6 billion, supported by its leasing and hospitality portfolio and stable property development revenues. Globe Telecom posted a 3 percent decline in core net income to P20.9 billion, weighed down by higher depreciation and interest expenses despite record gross service revenues of P165.1 billion. ACEN Corp., the group’s renewable energy arm, reported a 4 percent increase in core net income to P6.3 billion. However, its reported net income fell to P3.8 billion following impairment charges related to wind projects in Vietnam. Jenniffer B. Austria

FIGHT AGAINST ABUSE. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasizes the

local government’s drive to lead the fight against online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC) during the city’s Safer Internet Day celebration for 2026. PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. expressed support for Quezon City’s continuing campaign to broaden and strengthen measures to protect children in digital spaces.

BUSINESS

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Maynilad fined P42.57m over service disruptions By Jenniffer B. Austria

TARI VENTURE. Aboitiz Economic Estates and House of Investments (HI) finalize their joint venture partnership for

the continued development of TARI Estate in Tarlac province, marking the next phase of expansion for one of Central Luzon’s emerging industrial hubs. Formalizing the agreement are (from left) House of Investments chief operating officer and chief finance officer Gema Cheng, House of Investments president and chief executive Lorenzo Tan, Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land chairman of the board Iker Aboitiz and Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land president and chief executive Rafael Fernandez de Mesa.

MAYNILAD Water Services, Inc. faced a P42.57-million penalty after service interruptions affected the southern portion of its concession area during the recent Amihan season. Maynilad said it received the notice from Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) penalizing the company for water interruptions. Based on the MWSS RO directive, the penalty will be rebated to affected customers through credits applied to their water bills. Maynilad said it would comply with the regulator’s decision. The company said it continues to implement operational improvements and infrastructure upgrades to strengthen

ASEAN ministers eye stability plan A By Othel V. Campos

SEAN economic ministers pledged closer coordination to protect regional stability as escalating geopolitical tensions and global trade uncertainties threaten supply chains, energy markets and food security.

The ministers said in a joint statement issued after the 32nd ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Retreat in Taguig they are closely monitoring the conflict in the Middle East and its potential spillover effects on the global and regional economy. They warned that rising tensions could disrupt key maritime routes and supply chains, increasing freight, insurance and logistics costs and adding to inflationary pressures on energy,

food and other essential goods. The ministers joined ASEAN foreign ministers in calling for the de-escalation of the conflict through peaceful and diplomatic means, saying that stability and adherence to international law are critical to sustaining investor confidence and a predictable global trading system. To mitigate potential economic shocks, ASEAN reiterated its commitment to keep regional markets

open and maintain a transparent and predictable trade and investment environment. The ministers said the bloc will continue working with industry stakeholders and development partners to reinforce regional supply chains. Energy security emerged as a priority, with ministers highlighting ASEAN’s exposure to global oil and liquefied natural gas supply routes. They called for diversifying energy sources, strengthening regional cooperation on reserves and preparedness and accelerating the transition to renewable and alternative energy. The ministers also underscored the need to safeguard food security as volatile energy and transport costs could affect farm production, fertilizer supply and food distribution. ASEAN members committed to

keeping food supply chains open and minimizing price volatility. The group expressed concern over growing unilateral trade actions and said they will monitor the US Section 301 investigations affecting most ASEAN member states while engaging to ensure the probe remains consistent with international trade rules. ASEAN ministers reiterated support for a rules-based multilateral trading system anchored on the World Trade Organization and urged members to refrain from protectionist measures. They also pushed forward regional initiatives, including the ratification of the upgraded ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement and the conclusion of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement to deepen economic integration and support cross-border digital trade.

DEPDev seeks private sector help for local innovation By Thony Rose Lesaca DEPARTMENT of Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan called for stronger innovation and closer collaboration between government and the private sector to accelerate inclusive growth across the country. Speaking at the 17th Regional Development Council-Private Sector Representatives National Convention in Davao City on Wednesday, Balisacan said regional development becomes more effective when government and businesses work together. He said placing innovation at the center of development is among the key priorities guiding the country’s regional development agenda. He said these priorities should translate into concrete programs and investments in cities, provinces and communities. “Innovation must take root where opportunities and challenges are most visible—and where development outcomes are most directly felt—in our cities, provinces, and communities,” Balisacan said. He also underscored the need to strengthen public-private partnerships to sustain regional growth, citing development gains in the Davao Region. The region posted a 6.3-percent gross regional domestic product growth in 2024 and generated about P1.03 trillion in economic output. This performance made it the fourth fastest-growing region in the country. “We remain committed to strengthening engagement with private sector partners and regional stakeholders as we advance our national and regional development agenda,” Balisacan said.

MULTI-SPORTS COURT. A new chapter for youth development and community sports begins with the inauguration and

ribbon-cutting ceremony of the YMCA San Pablo Multi-Sports Green Court, attended by local leaders, international YMCA officials, educators and youth advocates. Kristy Sumague, CEO of YMCA of San Pablo, expressed gratitude to the community partners and supporters who helped make the project possible. Roy Tomandao

water supply reliability in the southern portion of its concession area, particularly during periods when weather conditions affect raw water intake from Laguna Lake. The company said the water interruptions were linked to weather-driven changes in raw water conditions in Laguna Lake, which required operational adjustments at its treatment plants, including lowering production levels to ensure treated water complied with the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water. After reviewing the incident, the MWSS RO ruled that the disruptions constituted a failure to meet service obligations on water availability under the revised concession agreement governing the utility.

Meralco says PH competitive for data centers By Alena Mae S. Flores MANILA Electric Co. sees the Philippines as a strategic and cost-competitive destination for the global hyperscale digital infrastructure industry, narrowing a long-standing gap with regional peers. The power retailer showcased the country’s readiness for energyintensive digital investments during a high-level dialogue at the Asian Development Bank. In a white paper titled “Positioning the Philippines for Hyperscale Data Center Growth,” the company said the country is emerging as a Southeast Asian powerhouse with a rapidly expanding project pipeline. The company said that hyperscale investors can access globally competitive rates through Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) and tax incentives under the CREATE MORE Act. These mechanisms align electricity costs within the Meralco franchise area with leading Southeast Asian markets. Meralco vice-president and head of utility economics Lawrence Fernandez said the company’s data center portfolio has delivered sustained organic growth while building a strong investment pipeline. He noted the need to ensure the entire power system is prepared to respond to industry demands. “For years, the long-standing narrative that the Philippines has the highest power rates in the region has been one of the biggest barriers to investment. But that context is changing, and the reality today is very different,” Fernandez said. The effective power rate for an end-user under the Competitive Retail Electricity Market (CREM) in the Meralco franchise is about 11 US cents per kilowatthour through optimized sourcing. Fernandez said this puts the Philippines at par with Thailand and Malaysia even without government subsidies.

Gov’t secures fuel, fertilizer for sugar industry amid Middle East tensions THE government is shoring up fuel and fertilizer supplies for the sugar industry as the sector enters its most resource-intensive harvest phase, officials said Friday. The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) said they are coordinating with other government agencies to ensure stable access to farm inputs for sugar producers. The move follows concerns that ongoing conflict in the Middle East

could disrupt global petroleum supplies and increase costs. SRA administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said the agency requested Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. to bring the problems of sugar farmers caused by the Middle East conflict to the Department of Energy and other government agencies. The concern was initially raised by SRA board farmer representative David Sanson. Last week, Sanson asked sugar federations to submit recom-

mendations on possible government intervention should global tensions trigger supply disruptions or price spikes in petroleum-based inputs. Fuel demand typically surges during the peak harvest cycle when farmers harvest cane, transport it to sugar mills and prepare fields for the next crop. Tractors used for land preparation, irrigation systems, and hauling operations rely heavily on fuel. At the same time, growers are increasing fertilizer

use as they begin fertilization for the next planting cycle. Tiu Laurel said the government would work to ensure a stable supply of fuel and fertilizer as well as other inputs for all Filipino farmers and fisherfolk. Industry officials said stabilizing these inputs during the harvest peak is crucial to protecting output and preventing cost pressures from spreading across the country’s sugar supply chain. Othel V. Campos

Converge ICT adding 1m ports in 2026 By Darwin G. Amojelar

STRONGER PARTNERSHIP. The Board of Investments (BOI) and the City

Government of General Santos sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to formalize their strengthened partnership, enhancing investment promotion, facilitation and investor servicing at the local level. Leading the event are BOI executive-director Bobby G. Fondevilla (seated, second from left) and General Santos City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao (seated, third from left), together with officials from the BOI and the City Government of General Santos at the Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City on March 6, 2026.

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. said Friday it aims to roll out nearly 1 million additional ports this year to expand world-class internet connectivity across the Philippines, with a specific focus on the Visayas and Mindanao regions. To support the expansion, Converge allocated up to P23 billion in capital expenditures, which represents a 30-percent increase over the P17.7 billion it spent last year. The majority of the budget is earmarked for strengthening and expanding the existing network. The company said it is prioritizing network hardening by establishing redundancy routes and rehabilitating infrastructure to meet accelerating

wholesale demand. Converge chief executive and cofounder Dennis Anthony Uy said the investment is critical for visibility in new regions and for supporting the company’s enterprise business. “We are investing heavily in our network expansion as we push harder for visibility in Visayas and Mindanao. At the same time, we are ramping up our Enterprise business amid increasing demand for quality connectivity and innovative solutions from enterprises of all sizes,” Uy said. The expansion will focus on Western Visayas and Northern Mindanao, where more than 100,000 ports are being prepared for service this year. These new ports will serve areas including Capiz, Samar, Bukidnon, Davao de Oro and Sultan Kudarat.

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SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

PH, Canada race to finalize bilateral free trade deal By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines and Canada are moving to accelerate negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement, with Filipino officials expressing confidence that a deal could be concluded ahead of a broader regional pact between Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said during a forum on Tuesday that discussions for the bilateral deal date back more than a decade. He said that an early scoping exercise in 2014 already highlighted the potential benefits of such an agreement. While the initiative was previously folded into a regional approach when Canada prioritized the Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement, Rodolfo said both tracks are now moving forward simultaneously. The Philippines is chairing ASEAN this year, making the regional pact a priority economic deliverable. “As part of our priority economic deliverables, we hope to sign and conclude the Canada-ASEAN FTA. But we also want to go even faster on a Philippines-Canada FTA,” Rodolfo said. He said the bilateral agreement could potentially be concluded a few months earlier than the regional deal. Former Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development Mary Ng said the agreement serves as a concrete signal of deepening strategic ties. She said that for middle-power economies like Canada, intentional collaboration with partners like the Philippines is essential for diversifying trade and strengthening economic security. “The bilateral FTA is a real demonstrable signal and commitment that Canada and the Philippines are going to be strategic partners. We’re going to go fast. We are going to create the trade architecture,” Ng said.

Domestic gas key to lower power costs

HE Petroleum Association of the Philippines (PAP) called on power generation companies to maximize the use of domestic natural gas to stabilize electricity prices and reduce reliance on expensive fuel imports. PAP board of directors chairperson Donnabel Kuizon Cruz told a Senate hearing on Wednesday that the country maintains unused indigenous capacity that could immediately lower costs for consumers if fully utilized under existing downstream regulations. “There is an opportunity to fully implement the downstream Natural Gas law by maximizing the use of indigenous gas,” Cruz said. “We still have capacity there that we can use and push into our power

generation companies so we can help reduce the price,” said Cruz. The industry group is advocating for the full implementation of Republic Act No. 12120, also known as the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act, as a long-term buffer against global market volatility. The association cited Section 38 of the law, which exempts the sale of indigenous gas and its resulting electricity from value-added tax, as a primary mechanism for consumer savings.

Cruz, who also serves as Prime Energy president and chief executive, said that locally produced gas provides a substantial price advantage over imported liquefied natural gas. Prime Energy operates Service Contract No. 38, which covers the Malampaya Deep Water Gas-toPower Project. According to Cruz, electricity generated from Malampaya gas costs about P4.80 per kilowatt-hour, while imported LNG costs around P10.30 per kilowatt-hour. “That’s how big the difference between our own fuel in the country is, compared to imported gas today,” Cruz told senators. The push for energy independence comes as rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran,

DHSUD DRILL.

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) officials and personnel join the firstquarter national simultaneous earthquake drill on Thursday. During the drill, employees practiced the ‘duck, cover and hold’ safety procedure, reinforcing the importance of knowing what to do should an earthquake occur. Spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense, the NSED is a quarterly exercise promoting earthquake awareness and preparedness of the public.

ADB economist favors targeted subsidies over PH fuel excise tax suspension By Thony Rose Lesaca TARGETED government assistance such as income or food subsidies would better support vulnerable Filipinos than a blanket reduction in excise taxes amid rising fuel prices, an Asian Development Bank (ADB) economist said Thursday. ADB Southeast Asia lead economist James Villafuerte said subsidies directed at lower-income households would have a stronger social impact

than cutting fuel taxes, which tend to benefit higher-earning households more. “If you reduce the excise tax, rich people who consume lots of cars would benefit more. Whereas you could have provided, say, income or food subsidy to really the more vulnerable. I think that kind of intervention would be better in terms of the social impact,” Villafuerte told reporters. Villafuerte said focusing more on

subsidies would avoid sending the wrong signal to consumers that could encourage greater gasoline consumption. He said that lower fuel taxes reduce incentives to curb fuel use and argued that because gasoline pollutes, the government should not remove the incentive for people to limit their consumption. ADB chief economist Albert Park said the move to suspend the excise tax is understandable given that the

IN BRIEF Globe, GCash to digitalize Lucena public market

GLOBE Telecom Inc. and mobile wallet GCash have teamed up to transform public markets into digital hubs by integrating high-speed connectivity with cashless payment systems. The pilot program at the Lucena Public Market, supported by the local government, features free public Wi-Fi powered by Globe At Home GFiber Prepaid. The initiative aims to provide vendors and customers with the stable internet required to process GCash transactions without disruption. “The palengke or wet market is the heartbeat of Filipino communities, where every peso counts and speed of transactions is essential. By providing fast and stable internet access through GFiber Prepaid, Globe AT HOME is empowering both vendors and their suki to thrive in the digital economy, without the burden of monthly bills or lock‑in periods,” Globe Broadband Business vice president Abigail Cardino said. Cardino said the initiative makes digital payments more accessible and dependable, ensuring that a quick trip to the market is seamless and efficient. The digitalization of markets offers vendors a vital digital footprint, according to G-Xchange Inc. vice-president and head of public sector Cleo Celeste Santos. Darwin G. Amojelar

IFC, OnePuhunan boost financing for MSMEs

THE International Finance Corp. (IFC) teamed up with CreditAccess Philippines Financing Company Inc. (OnePuhunan) to expand access to financing and support job creation in rural areas across the Philippines. The partnership, under the IFC MSME Finance Platform, includes a three-year senior loan facility for OnePuhunan consisting of about $20 million funding and a mobilization of up to $40 million. These funds will be used exclusively to support women-owned or women-led microenterprises in rural communities. “We are happy to be working with IFC for the first time, as we expand to reach at least 1 million Filipinos by 2030. With this partnership, we aim to continuously improve our product offerings and services to better serve our clients, so they can focus on growing their businesses and supporting their families,” OnePuhunan chief executive and president Daniele Rovere said.

threaten global oil and gas supplies. Cruz described the 2022 extension of the Malampaya service contract as a critical catalyst for national security and recent upstream successes. “The Iran conflict underscores the importance of having our own resources—our own indigenous or domestic fuel sources such as indigenous gas, oil and indigenous coal,” Cruz said. The license extension has enabled the commencement of new drilling projects, which Cruz confirmed has already resulted in one discovery. Energy stakeholders are coordinating with the Department of Energy to manage the national fuel mix and mitigate the impact of global market uncertainty on local households.

PH confident in resolving US forced labor probe

The microfinance institution operates across 16 regions in the country and maintains an extensive network in rural areas. Moving forward, the company plans to further expand its operations while also accelerating digitalization initiatives. “MSMEs play a major role in creating jobs and boosting prosperity especially in underserved communities. By partnering with OnePuhunan, IFC is expanding access to finance for women entrepreneurs in rural Philippines—helping them grow businesses, create jobs, and build resilience where it is needed most,” IFC country manager Amena Arief said. Thony Rose Lesaca

BSP expands digital retirement account options

FILIPINOS have gained more digital avenues to save for retirement as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) expands its “Open Finance for PERA Pilot” project. The initiative allows customers of G-Xchange Inc, which operates GCash, Union Bank of the Philippines (UBP), Philippine National Bank (PNB) and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) to open a Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) through a streamlined online process. By selecting ATRAM Trust Corporation as their PERA administrator, users can bypass manual forms and physical identity checks. Under the framework, the participating financial institutions securely share customer data with ATRAM once the user provides consent. The interoperability allows individuals to register and manage their retirement accounts directly through ATRAM’s digital platform or, in the case of UBP customers, via the bank’s mobile application. The BSP launched the pilot on July 29, 2025, to simplify the onboarding experience for a voluntary retirement saving program that has historically seen slow adoption due to documentation hurdles. PERA is designed to supplement mandatory retirement schemes such as the Social Security System and the Government Service Insurance System. The program offers significant tax incentives for both employees and employers. Contributions to the account are eligible for a 5-percent tax credit, and the investment income generated within the fund is exempt from taxes.

government is trying to balance consumer protection with fiscal sustainability amid elevated fuel prices. Park noted that many countries in the region are considering similar measures to protect consumers while remaining cognizant of the impact on fiscal revenues. The Department of Finance earlier estimated that the government could lose as much as P136 billion in total revenues if the tax suspension takes place from May to December 2026.

DIALYSIS APP. Rohit Singh, group chief executive of NephroPlus and country head Gowtham Arumugam speak during the launch of the NephroPlus Guest App—a mobile platform designed to help dialysis patients conveniently manage their treatment and appointments at a mall in Makati City on March 13, 2026. The launch, held in observance of World Kidney Day, highlights efforts to improve access to quality care for Filipinos living with chronic kidney disease. Norman Cruz

Grab, MOVE IT launch emergency fuel support for Filipino drivers By Darwin G. Amojelar RIDE-HAILING company Grab and motorcycle taxi platform MOVE IT have launched an immediate support program to protect the earnings of tens of thousands of drivers in the Philippines as global fuel prices surge. The intervention follows a series of pump price hikes triggered by Middle East conflicts and supply chain disruptions, with diesel prices rising by double digits in a single week. The support package focuses on fuel cost relief and earnings protection to ensure drivers remain on the road while maintaining service for passengers. Grab Philippines managing-director Ronald Roda said the immediate priority is to ensure drivers earn viably for their families while navigating

volatility in the global fuel market. Through partnerships with Seaoil, Caltex and Blu Energy, four-wheel and two-wheel partners can access savings of up to P4 per liter at participating stations. Grab Finance is also introducing a rebate program from March 16 to March 31, 2026, offering 20,000 eligible partners a P3 per-liter rebate when using Shell Fuel Cards. For GrabCar partners, a new incentive model will provide real-time per-trip cashback and commission rebates during peak hours. GrabFood delivery partners will receive a nationwide P3 “Spot Bonus” for every completed delivery to offset fuel costs. MOVE IT has introduced “Power Pasada,” a program providing monthly fuel allowances and peak-demand incentives for motorcycle riders.

THE Philippine government is confident it can address concerns raised by the United States after Washington included the country in a new investigation covering 60 economies over policies related to forced labor. Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said the probe under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 does not accuse the Philippines of hosting forced labor operations. Instead, it examines whether governments are effectively preventing the importation of goods produced using forced labor. “The investigation is not about the Philippines serving as a venue for forced labor. Rather, it concerns the alleged failure to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labor,” Rodolfo told reporters on the sidelines of the Canada-Philippines Partnership forum held Friday at the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City. The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) initiated the investigations to determine whether the policies and practices of 60 major trading partners related to forced labor imports are unreasonable or discriminatory and whether they burden US commerce. Rodolfo said the allegation essentially suggests that the Philippines, along with 59 other economies, may not be effectively stopping imports made using forced labor. He said that several Southeast Asian neighbors including Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam are also under investigation. Some of those nations are being scrutinized for both forced labor and excess capacity issues. Othel V. Campos

TECH

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

OPEN-EAR, OPEN WORLD

How the JBL Soundgear Clips blend into my everyday life By Jessica Luna The JBL Soundgear Clips

SING the JBL Soundgear Clips for everyday listening has been a refreshing change from traditional in-ear earbuds that seal off the outside world.

The first thing that stood out to me was the openear clip design. Instead of sitting inside the ear canal, the clips rest gently on the ear using JBL’s SonicArc structure. At first it felt unusual, but after a few hours I realized how comfortable they are. There’s no pressure inside the ear, no constant adjusting, and no fatigue even after wearing them most of the day. The translucent finish and sleek clip shape also make them look more like a wearable accessory than typical headphones, so they feel natural whether I’m working, relaxing, or walking outside. One of the first things I tried with them was watching a show on Netflix late at night. Instead of the closed-off feeling of regular earbuds, the Soundgear Clips create a more open listening experience. Dialogue comes through clearly, and the sound feels natural rather than trapped in your ears. JBL’s OpenSound technology directs audio toward your ear while leaving the ear canal unobstructed. Voices during dialogue-heavy scenes sounded crisp, and background music still had depth thanks to the 11mm dynamic driver and Adaptive Bass Boost. While the immersion isn’t as intense as sealed earbuds, I could still hear someone calling from another room or a phone notification without pausing the show. Listening to music on Spotify is where the Soundgear Clips really started to grow on me. The sound profile is unmistakably JBL—warm, energetic, and slightly bass-forward without overpowering the mids. Vocals come through clearly, which makes them great for pop, acoustic tracks, and podcasts.

Equinix unveils the distributed AI Hub EQUINIX, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX), the world’s digital infrastructure company®, today unveiled the Distributed AI Hub, powered by Equinix Fabric Intelligence™, to provide a single, unified framework for enterprises to connect, secure, and simplify their increasingly complex and distributed AI ecosystems. The Hub is a neutral location that allows enterprises to discover, connect to, and consume AI infrastructure providers—including model companies, GPU clouds, data platforms, network and security services, and AI frameworks—all through private, low-latency connectivity at Equinix’s 280 high performance data centers. “Enterprises are racing to deploy agentic AI but are finding that their existing infrastructure was never designed for the complexities of distributed intelligence,” said Mary Johnston Turner, Research Vice President, Digital Infrastructure Strategies at IDC. “By 2027, IDC expects 80% of enterprises will deploy distributed edge infrastructure to improve the latency and responsiveness of AI applications. Enterprises will need solutions like Equinix’s Distributed AI Hub to enable them to unify these disparate systems.” To unlock the true value of agentic AI, enterprises need to unify inherently distributed workflows: training data and inference workloads sprawled across public clouds, private data centers, edge environments, and a rising wave of specialized neoclouds, each with unique performance and sovereignty constraints. This maze of silos can slow innovation, complicate governance, and make it nearly impossible to run AI workloads close to the data that fuels them—limiting business impact and user experience. That is why Equinix is taking its distributed AI infrastructure a step further with the launch of the Distributed AI Hub, giving enterprises a simple, secure, more performant way to run AI across different locations.

Cozy fit

I was surprised by how full the bass sounded for an open-ear design. It won’t hit as hard as sealed in-ear monitors, but it still has presence, especially on modern pop or hip-hop. The SonicArc design also helps focus the sound toward your ears, keeping sound leakage low; someone sitting next to me couldn’t hear my music unless the

volume was very high. They’re especially enjoyable during quiet moments at home. When I’m scrolling through my phone or making coffee, they provide a soundtrack to the moment rather than isolating me from it. Music feels like it’s playing around you instead of directly inside your ears. I could still hear the cats me-

owing and the dog barking, or someone knocking on the door while my playlist continued. That lighter, more natural listening experience makes them great for long sessions. They also make sense when walking through crowded places. During a stroll in a mall, I appreciated the situational awareness they provide. With typical earbuds, you lose awareness of your surroundings, but with the Soundgear Clips I could still hear footsteps, announcements, and nearby conversations while enjoying music. The clip design stayed secure while walking between stores and going up escalators, which eased my initial concern about them falling off. Call quality is another strong point. The four-microphone setup with JBL’s AI-trained noise reduction keeps your voice clear during calls. When I made a call while walking outside, the person on the other end said my voice sounded natural even with wind and background noise. The beamforming microphones focus on your voice while minimizing environmental sound, making them reliable for quick calls on the go.

Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program champions safer online spaces TEN years after its launch, Globe’s Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) has officially reached a historic milestone, reaching more than two million students and educators nationwide. What began in 2016 as a corporate initiative to teach online safety and responsibility has grown into a nationwide movement against fast-evolving digital risks. When classrooms shifted online during the pandemic, Globe adapted quickly, converting modules into digital courses on the Globe of Good YouTube channel. These resources have been viewed over 432,000 times, ensuring learning continues anytime, anywhere. DTP equips learners with practical skills to navigate the online world safely, from protecting personal data to practicing cyber ethics and responsible technology use. By turning awareness into action, the program empowers students not just to protect themselves but also to guide others in their communities. In 2019, Globe partnered with the Department of Education to strengthen DTP’s impact, integrating lessons on responsible online behavior into the K–12 values formation curriculum and giving millions of students and teachers structured guidance to navigate digital spaces safely. In 2025 alone, 16,560 students and teachers participated in DTP workshops and learning sessions nationwide. Taking the initiative further, Globe launched the Digital Thumbprint Student Ambassador Program in 2025 with Technological Institute of the Philippines as the pilot school. Student ambassadors will now act as peer mentors who will share digital safety knowledge to classmates and

Young digital leaders step up as Globe celebrates 10 years of the Digital Thumbprint Program promoting safer and more responsible online communities.globe

vulnerable communities and create a multiplying effect of awareness and protection nationwide. The 2026 curriculum now features 36 stackable modules ,in recognition of the evolving digital landscape, including AI ethics, digital etiquette, Philippine cyber laws, and digital rights, designed to combat current threats that didn’t exist when the program began. Structured across basic, intermediate, and advanced levels, the curriculum guides learners through each stage with facilitated training sessions,

helping them build mastery and confidence in navigating the modern digital landscape. “Reaching the 10-year mark is a testament to the urgency and importance of our mission. When we started in 2016, we talked about passwords; today, we are talking about AI ethics and digital empathy. With our new student ambassadors leading the charge, we are not just teaching safety; we are building a nation of digital guardians,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

NephroPlus expands digital care across 43 clinics with mobile app launch

Rohit SighH, NephroPlus Group CEO NEPHROPLUS, Asia’s largest dialysis network, launches its mobile application to help NephroPlus patients to seamlessly manage their treatment journey through an integrated digital healthcare experience. In observance of World Kidney Day, the launch underscores the company’s commitment to expanding access to quality dialysis care. NephroPlus leaders

and leading nephrologists address the state of kidney health in the Philippines and the role that technology and expanded healthcare infrastructure can play in supporting the national healthcare system. This App comes at a time when the Philippine healthcare system is working to address the rising number of patients with chronic kidney disease, projected to increase from around 40,000 in 2020 to nearly 150,000 by 2030. The gap between available facilities and integrated patient support services highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to improve access to quality renal care. NephroPlus Co-Founder, Kamal D. Shah, whose dialysis journey began at just 21, discovered many problems related to treatment quality and convenience. Determined to reshape the experience and empower dialysis patients to lead long, normal lives, he cofounded NephroPlus and committed to developing innovations like the Patient App as a valuable tool that simplify treatment management and support a healthy lifestyle.

“We want all patients (whom we call ‘Guests’ at NephroPlus) to lead happy, productive and fruitful lives. At NephroPlus, we strive to give them the best possible experience when they come for dialysis. We want them to get their lives back.” he shared. First-of-its-Kind Comprehensive Dialysis Platform The new mobile application is the firstof-its-kind platform in the Philippines designed to deliver comprehensive and holistic dialysis care through combined features of clinic care, learning hub, lifestyle support, and community network. Under Clinic Care, patients can conveniently manage their dialysis journey across NephroPlus Philippines’ nationwide clinics. It allows users to: ● Book hassle-free dialysis sessions and secure payments; ● Video consult with nephrologists; and ● Access laboratory results, prescriptions, and billing information. Recognizing the importance of nutrition and lifestyle in dialysis care, the

app’s Lifestyle Support feature provides patients with: ● Free dietitian consultations; ● Unlimited lifetime access to one of the country’s largest directories of dialysis friendly recipes; and ● Vital signs monitoring to help track fluid intake and overall health management. The app empowers patients to help better understand their health. Its Learning Hub contains a plethora of educational resources about dialysis, as well as interactive activities and contests for patients to join and win prizes. Moreover, the Community Network allows patients to connect with each other through forums where they can share experiences and stories and provide support. Together, these features enable patients to take a more active role in managing their health in addition to their clinical treatment. Enabling Normal Lives Through Quality Dialysis Care NephroPlus Philippines is expanding its dialysis network to improve access to dialysis across the country. By 2028, the company projects the establishment of 150 dialysis clinics nationwide, further strengthening access to treatment for Filipino patients living with kidney disease.

TECH

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

HE YEAR 2026 may be the year that more ride-hailing apps will expand their operations to become mobility superapps, according to industry experts who have analyzed the movements of multiple apps across the board. The analysis suggests that this shift will be driven by multi-service bundling, predictive safety features, boosted AI integration, cashless payment options, and coordination with regulators. “Our global market review found that the way forward for ride-hailing platforms is to evolve into mobility superapps,” Evgenia Matrosova, inDrive Chief Ride-Hailing Officer, said. “Users want convenience more than anything, where diverse mobility solutions, proactive safety functions, and seamless digital payments can all be found in one platform. Integrated services won’t just push innovation forward; they signify reliability and flexibility on the road and beyond.” #1 Ride-hailing apps may begin venturing into adjacent services More ride-hailing apps may begin expanding into adjacent mobility services this year due to an increase in global demand for integrated transport services. For instance, market intelligence firm Sensor Tower listed inDrive and other ride-hailing platforms among the most downloaded travel apps in 2025—revealing global demand for their expansion into adjacent travel services. Zooming into the platforms’ service expansion, industry experts are optimistic about the potential in food delivery. Data shows that restaurants worldwide are considering working with delivery platforms that offer them more control over their profit margins. A separate Ken Research study also revealed that online travel booking has also enjoyed similar local growth, with a projected revenue of Php 50 billion. This could boost pre-booked airport pickups’ popularity, with travelers viewing this as a much-needed convenience. These all reveal one thing: the lines between passenger transport and adjacent mobility services are beginning to blur. Thus, ride-hailing apps may begin venturing into adjacent mobility services to create an all-in-one experience for users. #2 Safety systems are slowly shifting from protection to prediction At present, in-app safety features are often limited to real-time monitoring, emergency hotline buttons, and a speed dial to the platform’s 24/7 support. However, industry experts forecast that ride-hailing apps may begin using AI-

MOBILITY TRENDS IN 2026

The expanding role of ride-hailing platforms Vertiv introduces Vertiv PowerUPS 6000 Industrial

industrial-grade UPS design for commercial markets

Industry insights indicate that ride-hailing platforms are gradually expanding beyond core passenger transport, with increased focus on predictive safety capabilities, AI-enabled customer support, embedded payment systems, and more structured regulatory engagement.

powered analytics and risk modeling for predictive road safety measures. For instance, the Forum of European National Highway Research Laboratories says that AI can collect traffic data, weather feeds, and other key information to predict collisions and recommend alternate routes. Predictive safety features like this can help ridehailing apps move past interventionary measures and proactively protect their drivers and passengers. #3 AI to enhance the in-app customer experience Industry experts also say that mobility services may continue leveraging AI to improve customer experience. There are also early indicators that ride-hailing apps may experiment with using humanlike AI voices in their customer support systems. AI may also be used in developing personal mobility agents that manage drivers’ schedules and earnings and intervene during emergencies.

With ride-hailing platforms considering venturing into food delivery, they may use AI to simulate customer interactions. Large language models can simulate dialogue-based ordering, allowing users to verbally dictate their orders or send them via chat platforms like WhatsApp. Not only would this speed up the delivery process, but it would also cater to users who prefer personal interactions. #4 Ride-hailing apps eyeing seamless in-app payment systems Cashless payment options, such as e-wallets and online bank transfers, are gaining popularity among Filipino consumers. A Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas report found that 57.4% of Filipinos’ retail transactions were paid online. This creates an opportunity for ride-hailing companies to make their payment schemes more seamless. They may consider embedding cashless payment options in their apps, which can

automatically deduct their transaction from their attached online banking and e-wallet accounts. inDrive’s internal research shows that Filipino commuters are also pricesensitive, often allocating tight budgets to their transportation expenses. This consumer attitude could pave the way for ride-hailing companies to install inapp wallets. These facilitate better online budgeting and accommodate users who prefer cash. #5 Ride-hailing apps expected to continue to uphold price fairness Strict regulatory compliance has always influenced the dynamics of the ride-hailing industry. In particular, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has been staunch in implementing its fare matrix. Just last December, the regulator imposed surge caps to maintain affordable holiday fares—underscoring its commitment to keeping prices affordable for passengers.

Security Bank, VeritasPay expand digital payment solutions for MSMEs SECURITY Bank Corporation (PSE:SECB) has partnered with VeritasPay Philippines Inc. to expand access to modern point-of-sale (POS) payment solutions for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines As more consumers shift toward card and QR payments, reliable payment acceptance is becoming increasingly important for small businesses. Through this partnership, Security Bank’s MSME clients can access VeritasPay’s secure POS terminals at preferential rates through the Bank’s referral program, making digital payment acceptance more accessible and affordable. VeritasPay’s POS platform includes an intuitive merchant dashboard that provides real-time visibility of transactions and simplifies daily payment reconciliation, helping business owners manage collections

Shown here are (seated, from left) John David Yap, EVP and Business Banking Segment Head, Security Bank; Christopher Payne, President and CEO, VeritasPay; and Lex Cimagala, FVP and Customer Value Proposition Head, Security Bank; (standing, from left) Meynard Espinosa, AVP and Product Manager, Security Bank; Carl Tienzo, General Manager & Business Development Head, VeritasPay; Kristine Cruz, Business Operations Head, VeritasPay; and Xyrus Dayao, Business Development Manager, VeritasPay

and monitor cash flow more efficiently. The collaboration forms part of Security Bank’s Beyond Banking Partnership program, an initiative of the Bank’s Business Banking Segment (BBS) that expands support for MSMEs through practical solutions and strategic partnerships that go beyond traditional financing. “MSMEs need simple and reliable ways to accept digital payments as customer behavior continues to evolve,” said John David Yap, Security Bank EVP and BBS Head. “Through our partnership with VeritasPay, we are helping our clients adopt modern payment solutions that allow them to serve customers better and operate more efficiently.” VeritasPay’s President and CEO Christopher Payne said the partnership brings together VeritasPay’s payment technology and Security Bank’s strong MSME network to support more

VERTIV (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure, today announced the Vertiv™ PowerUPS 6000 Industrial uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system, designed to deliver reliable power protection for commercial and industrial (C&I) markets. The solution supports operations for industries including manufacturing, transportation, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, packaging, and steel. “Industrial environments can face electrical instability, high temperatures, and airborne contaminants that traditional UPS systems aren’t built to withstand,” said Greg Funk, vice president of modular power converters at Vertiv. “The Vertiv PowerUPS 6000 Industrial is engineered specifically for Industry 4.0 applications, delivering reliable performance amid demanding environments that can result in power fluctuations and harsh conditions on factory floors, refineries, and production lines.” The Vertiv PowerUPS 6000 Industrial has an Ingress Protection rating of IP42, indicating that it is built to withstand dust, humidity, and ambient temperatures of up to 50 °C (122 °F). The UPS protects critical industrial control systems such as PLCs and SCADA systems, industrial networking equipment, and production-line automation, helping maintain operational continuity across applications where power reliability is essential. The UPS features a compact cabinet footprint, enabling installation in space-constrained environments. In addition, the UPS supports installation and operation using front access only, simplifying deployment, maintenance, and service. Engineered for energy efficiency and operational reliability, the Vertiv PowerUPS 6000 Industrial UPS achieves up to 96% efficiency in double-conversion mode and 99% in ECO mode, with compatibility for valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA), Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd), and Lithium-Ion (Liion) battery cabinets to meet diverse runtime requirements.

Filipino businesses. “Today marks an exciting milestone as we officially formalize our partnership with Security Bank, built on hard work and a shared vision. We are honored to empower their merchants with seamless credit, debit, and QR payment solutions through our innovative POS technology. Together, we believe merchants deserve not only advanced solutions, but exceptional service that truly supports their growth. This is the beginning of a strong, longterm collaboration that will create meaningful impact and lasting value,” said Payne. The partnership reflects Security Bank’s continued commitment to empowering Filipino entrepreneurs with practical tools that support business growth and operational efficiency.

Regulators, lending industry participants identify approaches to lower cost of consumer loans REGULATORS, policymakers, and lending industry leaders, including Salmon, Billease, LenderLink, and ADVANCE.AI/ ADVANCE.CBP, met for the lending industry roundtable dedicated to expanding access to affordable credit. At the event, entitled “Putting the Customer First: How Regulators and Fintechs Can Expand Safe, Reliable Financial Access”, participants agreed that widening credit access requires strengthening the foundations of responsible lending, with improved data infrastructure emerging as central to delivering more inclusive financial services. The key takeaway from the discussion is that providing lenders with secure, consumer-authorized access to transaction data – from banks and insurers to utilities, retailers, and airlines, among others – is essential to expanding responsible access to credit. With regulator-mandated standards for security and authorization, this data enables more accurate risk assessment, broadening inclu-

sion while maintaining strong, prudent underwriting standards. Collaboration as the catalyst The roundtable reflected strong alignment between regulators and legislators on the critical role of opening access to data in advancing financial inclusion. “The SEC is at the forefront of strengthening credit regulation, and we are actively exploring systems that allow credit information to be shared more effectively among regulated institutions,” Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Commissioner Rogelio Quevedo said. “We are also studying the use of technologies to strengthen borrower identity and data integrity. When lenders lack reliable credit history, risk premiums increase. Improving information sharing can help address that gap and support more affordable, responsible lending,” he added. Cong. Jude Acidre, Chairperson of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, likewise underscored legislative support, citing the recent filing

Shown here are (from left, standing) LenderLink CEO and Founder, Christo Georgiev; Billease CEO and Co-Founder, Georg Steiger; Salmon Co-Founder, Raffy Montemayor; Salmon Co-Founder, Pavel Fedorov; and ADVANCE.AI and ADVANCE.CBP PH Country Manager, Michelle Anne Chan; (from left, seated) Office of Rep. Jude Acidre’s Chief of Staff, Atty. Cesar Ong; SEC Commissioner Rogelio Quevedo; and Industry Expert and former BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier.

of the proposed Philippine Open Finance Act as a key milestone. He described this not only as a financial sector reform, but as a social equity measure with tangible benefits for consumers – including students, educators, and workers in the education sector. “Financial inclusion has improved but this could be further worked on. While inclusion is often measured by account ownership, the bigger challenge is expanding access to credit. Open finance – and the proposed legislation supporting it – can help address this gap,” said Chuchi Fonacier, an industry expert, reflecting on her prior experiences as Deputy Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Broad Industry Support “Creditworthiness is no longer defined solely by past loans,” said Raffy Montemayor, Co-Founder of Salmon. “Everyday financial signals – mobile usage, utility payments, loyalty programs, even gym memberships – can help distinguish reliable payers from risky ones.”

SHOWBIZ

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

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

Myrtle Sarrosa is a showstopper

GMA Network tops Prosple Awards, dominates creative rankings

at ‘One Piece’ premiere Myrtle Sarrosa attends the Tokyo premiere of ‘One Piece’ Season 2, representing the Philippines among global anime creators and influencers Myrtle Sarrosa (right) meets Mackenyu Arata, who plays the character of Roronoa Zoro, at the show’s premiere in Tokyo

Myrtle Sarrosa (left) joins ‘One Piece’ fans in a photo with Taz Skylar, who plays Sanji

T a red carpet event in Tokyo, where cameras flashed and anime dreams felt within reach, cosplayer and actress Myrtle Sarrosa found herself in a moment that many fans only imagine. She stood proudly among the world’s biggest fans of the Grand Line.

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

Myrtle admitted the feeling was surreal when she was named Best Dressed at the premiere of One Piece Season 2, held in Tokyo, Japan. Surrounded by global anime influencers and the show’s cast, the longtime fan of the beloved pirate saga suddenly became one of the evening’s most talked-about guests. Anime creators and content personalities from around the world gathered for the premiere, which also welcomed the series’ stars, including Iñaki Godoy, Mackenyu Arata, Taz Skylar, Jacob Romero Gibson, and Emily Rudd. Representing the Philippines, Myrtle attended the event to walk the red carpet and interview the cast. But she arrived not just as a host or fan. She came as a cosplayer determined to honor the

world of One Piece. Throughout the evening, Myrtle appeared in several character-inspired looks, including costumes based on Nami, Miss All Sunday (Nico Robin), Zoro, and Tony Tony Chopper. Her standout ensemble was a Miss All Sunday–inspired gown created by Designer Daddy and styled by En Fernandez together with Sarrosa herself. When her name was announced as Best Dressed, Myrtle later shared that the moment felt overwhelming in the best possible way. For someone who had long admired the anime and built a career around cosplay, standing on that red carpet among creators and cast members felt like a personal victory. Videos circulating online captured fellow creators celebrating her win, including King Vader, Stella Chu, Ace of Spades, Allen Ansay, and Arshiethromycin. The recognition did not stop there. Members of

the cast also took notice. Rudd, who plays Nami in the series, called Sarrosa “beautiful” in her Miss All Sunday look, while Skylar, Gibson, and Godoy praised her Tony Tony Chopper cosplay. One of the evening’s most memorable moments for Myrtle came when Mackenyu stopped to sign an autograph for her during the event. For the Filipino cosplayer who had followed the franchise for years, the interaction felt like a full-circle fan moment. The Tokyo win adds another highlight to Sarrosa’s growing list of accolades. Over the past year, she has received several recognitions, including the Otaku Awards Cosplay Hall of Fame, VP Awards Cosplayer of the Year, VP Awards Streamer of the Year, and PH Esports Awards Cosplayer of the Year.

GMA Network has been named one of the country’s leading employers for emerging talent, earning a spot on the prestigious Top 100 Employers for Fresh Graduates list at the 2026 Prosple Awards. The recognition affirms GMA’s efforts to nurture the next generation of creative professionals through mentorship programs, training initiatives, and career development opportunities. The network also secured multiple top rankings across key creative fields. GMA was named No. 1 in Reputation for Creative, Performing, and Visual Arts, a category determined from surveys and insights gathered from over 2,000 current and recent graduates. In the Career Pathway Rankings, GMA claimed the top spot for Animation & VFX, Film & TV Production, and Music & Audio Production, reinforcing its position as a hub for aspiring creatives. “Besides our commitment to innovation, we at GMA Network believe in creating and nurturing an environment where creativity and talent thrive, and every project is an opportunity for mentorship, collaboration, and excellence,” said GMA Network first vice President for Human Resources Gerrome Y. Apolona.

GMA Network earns recognition at the 2026 Prosple Awards for its programs supporting emerging creative professionals

1621’s new EP brings kilig culture to fans The cast of ‘A Chorus Line’ brings the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical to Philippine audiences

Broadway star Conrad Ricamora returns to his roots on Philippine stage By Angelica Villanueva FOR Hollywood actor Conrad Ricamora, walking onto the Philippine stage for the first time is like a homecoming. “Growing up with my dad, he left this country when he was 10. Being here, it’s the highlight of my career,” the theater actor said during the gala night of A Chorus Line, the 50th-anniversary production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical.

Conrad Ricamora headlines the Manila staging of ‘A Chorus Line,’ describing the production as a meaningful return to his Filipino roots

Conrad, a Broadway veteran known for his award-winning performances, said that returning to his father’s homeland with an all-Filipino cast brought an unexpected personal resonance. “It means everything. Performing here connects me to my roots in a way I haven’t felt before. Seeing the audience’s enthusiasm and joy—it’s indescribable,” he continued. A Chorus Line delves into the lives of performers auditioning for a Broadway chorus, offering audiences a rare glimpse behind the curtain. “As performers, we usually play roles. Here, we’re playing ourselves. It’s a bit meta. It’s made me reflect on my own journey, my own sacrifices, and it’s a privilege to share that story with Filipino audiences,” Conrad shared. Offstage, he has been embracing Manila’s culture with his husband, Peter Wesley Jensen. From exploring the historic streets of Intramuros to enjoying Filipino cuisine, the couple

has taken in the city’s rich history. “Peter’s reading Noli Me Tangere. It’s incredible to see him engaging with Philippine culture; it makes me emotional,” he shared in a separate interview. Conrad has also been impressed by Manila’s vibrant drag scene, calling Rampa Drag Club “the best drag I’ve ever seen. It’s like a full Broadway-level show with characters, choreography, and costumes—next level.” Joining him on stage is a cast of local and international talent, including Filipino-American performers Lissa DeGuzman, Christina Glur, and Ken San Jose. With a global creative team handling set, costume, lighting, and sound design, the production brings Broadway-caliber artistry to Manila. What Conrad hopes for the audience is to be inspired after watching the show. “These are real stories of dancers, their struggles and dreams. If anyone watching wants to pursue their own path or be their authentic self, I hope they take that courage with them,” he said. A Chorus Line runs until March 29, with performances Thursday through Sunday at select times in Manila theaters.

P-POP group 1621 has released a new five-track extended play (EP), 1621: BEGIN, opening a fresh chapter for the band. Members JM, JC, Win, Migz, and DJ explore themes ranging from chasing dreams and first crushes to heartbreak and the excitement of kilig culture across the EP’s five songs. The lead track, “Oh, Ano?” captures the quiet pain of unrequited love, the hope of being noticed, and the courage to ask for emotional clarity. Other tracks include “Manifest Mo Na ‘Yan” written by Rox Santos, “Ikaw Lang” by Ron Pangyarihan, “Orasan” composed by JM Asis and Ron Pangyarihan, and “Lulaley” penned by Perry Lansigan. Fans can hear the new songs during a public launch event today, March 14, at the SM MOA Sky Amphitheater. Admission is free. 1621 first debuted with a self-titled EP in 2024, which included “Laruan” and “Ikaw at Ikaw,” followed by Sapulso, featuring the viral hit “Bababa,” which has over 2.2 million streams and 350 million views on TikTok and more than 3 million streams on Spotify. The group has received the P-pop Potential award at the 9th P-pop Music Awards and earned nominations for Best Performance by a Group at the 37th Awit Awards and Male Group of the Year at the Jupiter Music Awards.

P-pop group 1621 opens a new chapter with the release of their new EP ‘1621: BEGIN’

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

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

LIFE

The Filipina CEO Circle Women’s Run draws thousands of women runners to the seaside roads of the SM Mall of Asia Complex

Mogambo Springs general manager Colleen Barcelona is at the helm of the spa village

HERE’S something in the air—or perhaps on the pavement—across the Philippines these days.

The Filipina CEO Circle Women’s Run emphasizes fitness, community, and solidarity among women

specifically for children, allowing families to participate in the celebration together. In a unique twist acknowledging the importance of allies, the 16KM and 10KM categories welcomed men to register as “Buddy Runners,” demonstrating solidarity alongside the

Dee-tails

Ardee de los Angeles

From elite executives squeezing in dawn intervals before board meetings to students lacing up for weekend fun runs, running has quietly exploded into a national phenomenon that cuts across generations. This could be seen on the seaside roads of the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City when it transformed into a sea of determined women this Sunday, March 8, as the Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) Women’s Run PH returned for its third and most historic edition yet. Marking International Women’s Day on the exact day of the event for the first time, the celebration drew an unprecedented 16,500 registered participants, far surpassing initial targets and doubling last year’s turnout. Among the FCC leaders who joined the run was Christine Arriola-Villongco, owner of Aozora Japanese Restaurants in Tagaytay and country general manager of Inditex Group. She has been a steadfast supporter of the women’s run since its inception. Her presence embodied the organization’s commitment to leading by example—showing that the same women who have broken glass ceilings in boardrooms are just as passionate about championing health, wellness, and community on the ground. For the Filipina CEO Circle, the organization behind the annual run, this milestone represents something far deeper than numbers. FCC is an organization of, for, and by successful career women who rose from the ranks to reach top positions in their respective companies. Formally launched in 2015, its members now

Thousands join historic

Filipina CEO Circle Women’s Run number over 80 from a broad representation of industries— banking and finance, insurance, IT, BPOs and business services, advertising, consumer packaged goods, telecommunications, transport services, real estate, hospitality, pharmaceutical and health care, fashion and retail, and education. “We are women drawn together by having shared journeys characterized by hard work, grit, and commitment to excellence, and bound forever by a common desire to help other young women reach the top,” said Nicole de la Cruz, founder of the FCC Women’s Run, addressing the crowd before the starting gun. Carrying the theme “Strength, Grace, and Honor,” the 2026 run offered four race categories to accommodate all fitness levels. Serious runners challenged themselves in the 16KM and 10KM distances, while beginners and casual participants enjoyed the 5KM fun run. True to its inclusive spirit, the event also featured a 1KM dash designed

Filipino Chinese group launches TikTok contest on barrio education stories By Nickie Wang A TIKTOK competition launched by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) is inviting Filipinos to turn stories of classrooms and community change into short digital films. The nationwide contest highlights the legacy of the group’s “Operation Barrio Schools,” a civic program that has built more than 6,500 rural public school buildings across the Philippines since it began in 1961. FFCCCII president Victor Lim said the initiative seeks to connect a decades-old philanthropic project with the storytelling style of today’s social media generation. “Operation Barrio Schools is a testament to the enduring philanthropy tradition of the Filipino Chinese community in promoting better public education and inclusive national economic development,” Lim noted. “Through this TikTok competition, we hope to engage the public and the younger generation, raise awareness about this decadeslong project, and showcase how these public school buildings have become symbols of hope and progress in rural communities.” For more than six decades, Operation Barrio Schools has stood as one of the federation’s most visible civic contributions. The project focuses on building classrooms in underserved rural communities, providing students in remote areas with safe learning spaces and improved access to education. Working with local government units and community partners, the program has expanded nationwide, bringing thousands of classrooms to provinces where educational facilities were once limited. The new competition invites participants to produce one to twominute TikTok videos that tell stories of how these schools have

shaped lives. Organized by the FFCCCII Youth and Integration Committee together with the Public Information and Media Committee, the project aims to gather authentic accounts of how education can change the direction of communities. Participants may submit entries under two categories. The first, “My FFCCCII Barrio School Journey,” is open to students, alumni, teachers and school staff who are directly connected to an FFCCCIIbuilt school and want to share personal experiences tied to the program. The second category, “The FFCCCII Barrio Schools Story,” welcomes the general public including content creators, filmmakers, influencers, media practitioners and storytellers who wish to illustrate the broader impact of the initiative on families, communities and national development. Entries are expected to highlight how access to education and community support created meaningful opportunities or encouraged long-term growth. Cash prizes await the winning creators. Each category will award P120,000 for the grand prize, P80,000 for second place and P50,000 for third place. Five special citations worth P30,000 each will recognize entries for leadership, storytelling excellence, educational impact and community inspiration, while 20 additional entries will receive P10,000 consolation prizes. Judges will evaluate submissions based on relevance to the theme, creativity, message impact and technical quality. Engagement metrics such as views and likes will not influence the final results. The competition opened on March 9 and will accept entries until May 15. Final judging is scheduled from May 16 to June 5, with winners to be announced on June 8. An awarding ceremony is set for June 20.

Christine ArriolaVillongco takes part in the Filipina CEO Circle Women’s Run during the International Women’s Day celebration at the SM Mall of Asia Complex

Christine Arriola-Villongco (sixth from bottom right) joins fellow participants of the club run

women in their lives. One of the most anticipated highlights of this year’s run was the deeply symbolic finisher medals. Moving beyond traditional race bling, organizers designed charm-style keepsakes intended to be worn and treasured long after the event. Finishers of the 1KM and 5KM categories received a butterfly charm, symbolizing growth, transformation, and the beautiful stages of a woman’s journey. Those who conquered the longer 10KM and 16KM distances were awarded a unique locket charm— designed to hold a small photo of an inspiring woman, allowing runners to keep their “why” literally close to their hearts as they pounded the pavement. The FCC Women’s Run was presented by the Filipina CEO Circle as title sponsor and SM Supermalls as co-presenter, continuing a partnership instrumental to the event’s exponential growth. Adding profound purpose, the event partnered with the PGH Cancer Survivor Organization as Advocacy Partner, amplifying messages of hope, early detection, and support for those affected by cancer. As the final runners crossed the finish line under the brilliant Manila sun, the message from the Filipina CEO Circle resonated clearly: when women run together, they don’t just go farther— they lift one another, inspire greatness, and pave the way for the next generation to reach the top.

From left: Counsellor Gerson Cruz Gimenes, Hope Zhang, Ambassador Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura, Vanessa Chua Sy, Alexandre Gastaldello, Fernando Vargas, Virginia Arantes Ferreira Carpi, and Alysson Bezerra at the Ipanema relaunch gathering in Manila

A Brazilian beachwear staple returns to the Philippines By Jasper Valdez A TOUCH of Rio de Janeiro’s beach spirit is returning to the Philippines as Brazilian footwear brand Ipanema makes its comeback in the local market, bringing back the colorful, easygoing

its identity around bright colors, relaxed silhouettes, and footwear designed for warm-weather living. The brand’s return brings a new range of flip-flops, sandals, and slides meant for sunny days, casual weekends, and everyday errands. Tykes Trading Inc. managing director Vanessa Chua Sy said the relaunch marks a renewed effort to bring the brand closer to Filipino consumers. “While the brand is reintroducing itself, it also ensures a renewed commitment to bringing the vibrant spirit and effortless style of Brazil closer to the Filipino community,” she said. Speaking at a luncheon on March 4, the Embassy of Brazil

brand’s aesthetic feels familiar in a country shaped by the same tropical rhythms. “Brazil and the Philippines share much in common. We are both populations dressed in sunshine, beautiful coastlines, and vibrant cultures,” he said, adding that people in both countries value comfort, style, and a relaxed way of life. The new collection embodies these ideas through a blend of playful and polished designs. Some pairs feature character prints and animal illustrations, while others highlight metallic details, glitter finishes, and sculptural accents that give casual footwear a slightly dressier edge. Platform styles add height without losing the brand’s emphasis on comfort, while classic flip-flops return in updated colors. Brazilian footwear manufacturer Grendene export director Alexandre Gastaldello said the company sees the Philippines as a natural market for the brand. “Our brands are tropical, and our products are suitable for markets like the Philippines,” he said. “We bring together creativity, tropical inspiration, and sustainability in our business practices and translate these into products that make fashion accessible.” Grendene, one of Brazil’s largest footwear exporters, produces several well-known labels, including Ipanema, Melissa, Ryder, Grenda, Cartago, and Zaxi. Ipanema’s latest collection is now available in selected SM Department Stores nationwide, as well as The Playground stores in Shangri-La Plaza and Robinsons Magnolia. The Brazilian brand’s colorful footwear line will be available in select stores in the country and online

Displays showcase Ipanema’s newest footwear collection for the summmer Officials of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. at the launch of their TikTok storytelling competition

sandals it has long been known for. Inspired by the laid-back lifestyle of Rio’s famous coastline, Ipanema built

in Manila’s ambassador to the Philippines, Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura, noted that the