Manila Standard - 2026 March 27 - Friday

PBBM: New Malampaya well to deliver gas supply

Camago-3 to produce 60 million cu.ft. of gas per day

By Charles Dantes

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announced

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China open to restart talks on SCS joint oil exploration

is open to restart talks on a possible joint oil exploration with the Philippines in the South

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By Alena Mae S. Flores

Two-day transport strike on; commuters jam metro trains

By

and 27, shifting instead to online or flexible learning arrangements. Among those that moved classes online were the University of the Philippines Diliman and Manila campuses, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas, Tarlac State University, Adamson University, and Centro Escolar University.

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump is ready to “unleash hell” if Iran does not accept a deal to end the nearly four-week Middle East war, the White House warned Wednesday (Thursday morning in Manila), but a defiant Tehran said it did not intend to negotiate.

The ramped-up rhetoric dashed hopes of any imminent de-escalation as violence on the ground showed no sign of abating, with Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Saudi Arabia all coming under fire.

Trump insisted later Wednesday that Iran was taking part in peace talks, but Tehran is denying it because their negotiators fear being killed by their own side.

“They are negotiating, by the way, and they want to make a deal so badly,” Trump told a dinner for Republican members of Congress. “But they’re afraid to say it, because they figure they’ll be killed by their own people,” he said. “They’re also afraid they’ll be killed by us.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied that Iran was negotiating with the United States, saying an exchange of messages through “friendly countries” did not equate to talks

By Charles Dantes and Vito Barcelo

China warns US on PH ammo depot

CHINA warned the United States on Thursday against bringing “conflict and the chaos of war” to the AsiaPacific, after Washington and its allies said they would weigh building a weapons base in the Philippines.

A US-led intergovernmental defense group agreed last week to assess funding for a new ammunition assembly and production line in the Philippines, according to a joint statement.

The decision was made by the 16

Duterte’s SALN since 2007 is among the documents subject to the subpoena issued by the House Committee on Justice. he explained that the public may request copies of the SALN of the president, vice president, and heads of constitutional commissions.

“When we heard the news, since we are monitoring the impeachment proceedings, we learned they voted on whether to issue a subpoena. But here in the Office of the Ombudsman, any person from the public may request a copy of the SALN in our possession,” Remulla said.

“Even a simple request would do, and even more so if it is a subpoena, we will comply,” he added.

On the lifting of the freeze order on the assets of the accused in the flood control mess, Assistant Ombudsman Clavano said that the assets of respondents will remain frozen.

“Their assets in banks remain frozen. I would like to clarify that freeze orders eventually lapse and are lifted, but as long as there is an asset preservation order in the civil forfeiture cases, respondents will still not be able to access their funds,” he explained. While freeze orders last only six months, the assets will continue to be preserved with the timely filing of civil forfeiture cases.

Clavano stressed that authorities will ensure that alleged public funds will not be returned to the respondents.

“We hit them where it hurts—through the money they obtained from the flood control projects—and we will not forget about that because recovering funds that should belong to the public is what matters most,” he said.

He also recognized the efforts of the Anti-Money Laundering Council for freezing billions of pesos and filing civil forfeiture cases now pending before the courts.

members of the Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR), which also includes Britain, Australia, Japan, South Korea and the Philippines.

supply disruptions and rising oil prices.

This as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the current oil crisis caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict could serve as an “impetus” to revive the discussions.

“That’s something we’ve been talking about for a great deal, but the territorial disputes get in the way of that. Maybe this will provide the impetus for both sides to come to an agreement,” he said in a Bloomberg News interview.

The President said the Philippines was casting a wide net in its search for fuel.

of the Philippines (TUCP) proposed a ₱5,000-monthly wage subsidy for more than five million minimum wage earners, citing delays by Congress in passing a legislated wage increase amid rising living costs.

Presidential Communications Office

Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is considering various policy options after economist Winnie Monsod criticized the administration’s suspension of excise taxes on fuel, saying it benefits wealthier Filipinos more than the poor.

“Nothing is off the table,” Castro said, noting that the government has sought the opinion of Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan on the proposal.

Citing Balisacan, Castro said a wealth tax has long been viewed by economists as a way to curb the concentration of wealth.

“Imposing a wealth tax on the super

gas field by about six years.

“It means more power. Steadier power. And cheaper power,” Mr. Marcos said.

Prime Energy, the operator of the Malampaya gas-to-power project, said the discovery effectively doubles the volume of gas that can be produced from the remaining reserves at Malampaya, the only indigenous natural gas source in the Philippines.

“The successful completion of Camago-3 demonstrates the strength of the Filipino workforce and the close collaboration between government and industry,” Prime Energy said in a statement.

The Malampaya consortium, which includes UC38 LLC, Prime Oil & Gas Inc. and PNOC Exploration Corp., is installing new subsea pipelines to connect these additional resources to the

“The US and its allies should earnestly respect the common aspirations of regional countries... and refrain from introducing bloc confrontation, conflict and the chaos of war into the Asia-Pacific,” ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a news conference.

“If the relevant country is willing to be a powder keg and ammunition depot, it will only backfire on itself,” he

China’s foreign ministry warned on Thursday that a potential ammunition facility would destabilise the region and “backfire.”

existing Malampaya platform.

This marked the first time since 2000 that such large-scale offshore construction has been undertaken in the area.

Mr. Marcos noted that electricity generated from Malampaya gas costs about P4.80 per kilowatt-hour, compared with P10.30 per kilowatt-hour for imported liquefied natural gas, highlighting potential savings for households and businesses.

“Every unit of power we generate from Malampaya instead of imported fuel is money saved by households, by small businesses, by every Filipino who pays an electricity bill,” he said.

“We did everything to ensure we have our own energy supply to ease the impact of this unrest on the daily lives of Filipinos,” the President added.

The chief executive further noted that another well, Bagong Pag-asa, located about 30 kilometers north of Malampaya, is already in development.

“This is indigenous energy. It is ours.

ductive” but declined to say whom the United States was dealing with in Tehran following the assassination of supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

with Washington.

“We do not intend to negotiate,” Araghchi told state TV. “We seek an end to the war on our own terms.”

In Pakistan, officials said Islamabad had conveyed to Tehran a 15-point American plan to stop the fighting that began on February 28.

Iran’ state-controlled Press TV cited an unidentified official as saying Tehran had “responded negatively” to the plan and the war would end only on Tehran’s terms, which include guarantees against future attacks.

‘Unleash hell’

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said talks had been “pro-

“We have not only gone to our traditional oil suppliers, but we have also tried to explore other sources that are not affected by the war that is ongoing in the Middle East,” he said. “Nothing is off the table. We are looking at everything, everything that we can do.” Already, a ship carrying more than 700,000 barrels of Russian crude oil has arrived in the Philippines, a source with knowledge of the matter told Agence France Presse (AFP) Thursday, days after the country declared a national energy emergency.

A separate diesel shipment of some 142,000 barrels also arrived yesterday,

wealthy is an economist’s dream because wealth tends to compound. A wealth tax slows wealth concentration over generations,” she said, quoting the economic chief.

“Such concentration translates into political and economic power leading to market failures, slowing economic growth and further weakening inclusivity,” she added.

However, Castro said implementing such a tax poses significant challenges.

She noted that several countries, including Germany, France and Sweden, have abandoned wealth taxes due to administrative complexity and low revenue generation.

“A wealth tax may encourage capital flight, especially when imposed during an economic crisis,” she stated.

Monsod had also criticized the government’s economic strategy, arguing that financial assistance to vulnerable sectors could be offset by rising prices of goods and fuel.

In response, Castro said the government has limited control over global oil prices but is taking steps to prevent a broader increase in the cost of goods.

said, when asked about the potential new facility.

Beijing and Manila have clashed frequently in recent years over disputed territories in the South China Sea.

China claims nearly the entirety of the crucial waterway, despite an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Lin added on Thursday that Beijing would “firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and security interests.” AFP

This is our future,” he said. Prime Energy said the Camago-3 well “reinforces the role of indigenous natural gas in supporting the Philippines’ long-term energy security.”

“Delivering results of this scale in less than three years since the renewal of SC 38 is an amazing achievement. This progress keeps us firmly on track to deliver first MP4 gas in the fourth quarter of 2026 and opens new opportunities to expand the country’s domestic gas resources,” it added.

The consortium’s next step involves drilling the Bagong Pag-asa exploration well, located 30 kilometers north of the current field. If gas is confirmed, further testing will be conducted to determine its production potential.

The Malampaya project has generated more than $14 billion in revenue for the government since its inception.

Prime Energy is a subsidiary of Prime Infra, the infrastructure arm of businessman Enrique Razon Jr.

The ERC acted on a March 25 recommendation from the Department of Energy (DOE) to halt WESM operations beginning March 26. It noted that spot market prices—the trading floor for electricity—could rise by as much as P4 per kilowatt-hour amid ongoing tensions.

ERC chairman Francis Saturnino Juan said immediate regulatory action is needed to ensure a stable and reliable power supply.

“In times of global energy disruption, our priority is clear: to protect Filipino consumers while ensuring that our power supply remains stable and reliable,” Juan said.

“The temporary suspension of the WESM and the implementation of a modified administered pricing mechanism are necessary to cushion the impact of volatile fuel prices and safeguard the integrity of our power system,” he said.

The suspension took effect at 12:05 a.m. on March 26 and will remain in place until the ERC, in consultation with the DOE, determines that normal operations can safely resume.

During this period, the power system will operate under special guidelines issued by the DOE, prioritizing renewable energy dispatch and fuel conservation.

All market participants, including the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, have been directed to comply.

The ERC will also implement a Modified Administered Pricing Mechanism, targeted for finalization by April 1 after stakeholder consultations.

His son and successor Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen in public.

“If Iran fails to accept the reality of the current moment... Trump will ensure they are hit harder than they have ever been hit before,” Leavitt said. “President Trump does not bluff and he is prepared to unleash hell.”

With thousands more US troops reportedly headed to the Middle East, Iran also threatened to open a new front by targeting Red Sea shipping should the United States launch a ground invasion.

Iran’s military said cruise missiles fired at the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group had “forced it to change its position” and warned of “powerful strikes” when the fleet comes into range.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said.

“We are doing this importation through the Philippine National Oil Corp. and the PNOC Exploration Corp. as part of our target to procure 2 million barrels to boost our supply,” Garin said.

Asked about the Russian oil, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the country would cooperate with “all possible partners to contribute to regional and global stability, balanced with our duty to protect and secure Philippine national interests.”

The Chinese embassy in Manila, for its part, noted that Beijing and Manila in the past have conducted “in-depth discussions on joint oil and gas development”

“At present, what we cannot control is the price of fuel and petroleum products because these are beyond our control,” she said.

She explained that, upon the orders of Mr. Marcos, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. are coordinating with manufacturers and other stakeholders to hold off on price increases.

Castro said the government’s current measures, including temporary subsidies, are among the fastest ways to mitigate the impact of tensions in the Middle East on Filipino consumers.

Meanwhile, Castro said the administration continues to balance assistance across sectors, emphasizing that no group is being left behind.

“First of all, we are all chosen by the President, and we have been blessed,” she said.

Castro explained that the transport sector was prioritized for aid because it was among the hardest hit by rising fuel costs.

She added that the government has also sought to protect commuters by

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, said the United States had hit two-thirds of Iran’s production facilities for missiles and drones, and drone and missile launch rates were down by 90 percent.

In a video on X, Cooper also estimated that 92 percent of the Iranian navy’s largest vessels had been damaged or destroyed.

“They’ve now lost the ability to meaningfully project naval power and influence around the region and around the world,” he said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the war was “out of control” and had “gone too far.”

Iranian conditions

According to The New York Times, the 15-point US plan touches on Iran’s contested nuclear and missile programs as well as “maritime routes.” AFP

in disputed waters in the South China Sea and “have made positive progress.”

“Setting aside differences and pursuing joint development is the right path to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea and deliver benefits to countries in the region and their peoples,” the embassy said.

“As long as the Philippine side demonstrates sincerity, China’s door to dialogue and cooperation will remain open,” it added. In 2023, President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to restart discussions on oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea.

delaying fare increases.

“The first priority is really to provide support to those in the transport sector, because they were the first affected and they desperately need assistance,” she said.

Asked whether minimum wage earners and middle-income Filipinos could eventually receive direct cash aid, Castro said the proposal is under consideration.

“We’ll study that as well; it will also depend on the budget allocated for it,”

Castro said.

The Palace also urged the public to remain patient and avoid spreading misinformation, stressing that the government’s efforts are meant to address the needs of all sectors.

“All we need is to have understanding, real understanding, and, in a way, for all of us here to help one another.

Let’s avoid others who want to ruin things or spread fake news, because this is not really the time for politics.”

In a statement, the TUCP said workers have long been burdened by increasing prices without corresponding wage adjustments, stressing that while

The proposed framework introduces technology-specific pricing: coal plants may receive fixed rates, natural gas plants will be paid based on contracts, and renewables will be prioritized under administered pricing. Oil-based plants will be compensated through administered prices when dispatched.

The ERC said historical market prices from January and February no longer reflect current conditions shaped by geopolitical tensions and fuel constraints.

The commission emphasized that the measures are temporary and meant to mitigate the impact of global energy disruptions.

Local governments also implemented class suspensions. In Laguna, face-to-face classes at all levels, both public and private, were halted, with schools directed to adopt modular or online learning.

The “No to Oil Price Hike” Coalition, led by Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON), spearheaded the strike, with demonstrations also held in Philcoa and other areas.

Protesters urged the government to reduce fuel prices to P55 per liter, scrap the value-added tax and excise taxes on petroleum, and repeal the Oil Deregulation Law, which they blame for unchecked price increases.

PISTON president Modesto Floranda said their demands remain unchanged despite earlier protests, noting that while the Senate scheduled a hearing on the issue, authorities have yet to present concrete solutions.

subsidies are extended to other sectors, minimum wage earners have yet to receive similar support despite decades of limited wage growth.

The proposal comes as the Department of Budget and Management reported around ₱230 billion in available funds for crisis response.

The TUCP said its proposed subsidy would require about ₱25 billion in initial funding, or roughly 10 percent of the available budget, and would be equivalent to about two months of a ₱100 daily wage increase previously approved by the Senate.

Alongside the subsidy, TUCP urged the government to adopt its five-point “KAPIT” agenda, which includes suspending taxes on fuel, electricity, and basic goods; enforcing price controls on key commodities; convening a special session of Congress to pass the ₱200 wage hike; providing the wage subsidy; and granting loan relief measures through state-run institutions. The group called on authorities to act swiftly to ease the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on Filipino workers.

NPCC supports P50 price ceiling on imported rice

By Othel V. Campos

THE National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) has endorsed the Department of Agriculture’s recommendation for the President to impose a P50-per-kilogram price ceiling on imported 5% broken rice for 30 days, aiming to curb rising costs and prevent market abuse.

Based on Republic Act No. 7581, as amended, and aligned with Executive Order No. 110, the resolution seeks to keep rice affordable for Filipino consumers while maintaining market stability.

The NPCC has formally transmitted its recommendation to Malacañang for the issuance of an executive order implementing the temporary measure.

Market analysts noted that rice prices remain under pressure due to rising transport and input costs and exchange rate fluctuations, which have pushed up the landed cost of imported rice.

Despite these challenges, national rice stocks have been bolstered by a combination of local production and imports, providing a buffer ahead of the lean season.

The Food and Agriculture Organization reported that the country’s total rice import requirement was around 3.6 million metric tons in 2025, with 2026 projected at 3.9 million metric tons. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the Philippines imported 408,860 metric tons of rice in January 2026, amounting to $159.37 million in FOB value. Vietnam supplied the bulk, accounting for 93% of the total import value, followed by Thailand and Myanmar with about 3.2% each.

Escudero hails national energy emergency

By Ram Superable and Maricel V. Cruz

THE Philippines may be the first country to declare a State of National Energy Emergency amid the Middle East standoff, a move that Senator Francis Escudero on Thursday said reflects preparedness rather than vulnerability.

In an official statement, Escudero called for a coordinated national response, urging agencies, schools, local governments, and businesses to act under a unified government framework to protect families and sustain the economy.

“The global energy landscape is shifting and we cannot afford fragmented responses. To protect the Filipino family and keep our economy moving, all sectors must contribute to a coordinated plan,” he said.

The former Senate chief welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signing of Executive Order No. 110, which implemented the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport for sectors affected by the energy crisis.

He also supported the Energy Regulatory Commission’s suspension of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Escudero also called on the Department of Trade and Industry and other agencies to encourage businesses, including restaurants and hospitality establishments, to practice responsible energy use.

Palace: Oil excise tax cut still under review

By Charles Dantes

MALACAÑANG said Thursday that the government has yet to determine how much excise tax on petroleum products may be reduced or whether it will be fully suspended, as global oil prices continue to fluctuate.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the matter remains under review by economic managers, citing ongoing volatility in fuel prices.

“Right now, we have spoken with Secretary Sharon Garin, and this is under review because petroleum product prices continue to change,”

Castro said in a press briefing. Castro made the statement when asked if there was already a computation on the potential reduction or suspension of excise taxes following the passage of the law granting the president authority to adjust fuel levies.

She also explained why the measure retains a provision stating it will

take effect 15 days after publication, despite calls for immediate relief from rising pump prices.

According to Castro, the provision complies with Article 2 of the Civil Code, which requires a standard grace period before laws are implemented.

“This is for the right to due process so that all stakeholders, our fellow citizens, and everyone involved will be informed,” she said.

She added that the 15-day period allows concerned sectors to review, understand, and prepare for the law’s implementation, noting that publication serves as official notice to the public.

Castro emphasized that only Congress has the authority to amend the effectivity clause, not the president.

“Only Congress can change this, so it is not in the President’s hands,” she said.

Asked whether the government could instead implement broader fuel subsidies similar to those in other countries to cushion consumers from price spikes, Castro said the proposal would be studied.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently signed Republic Act 12316, which authorizes him to suspend or reduce excise taxes on petroleum products if Dubai crude oil averages at least $80 per barrel for one month, upon recommendation of economic managers.

Any tax adjustment is time-bound and subject to reporting requirements to Congress, with the authority set to remain in effect until Dec. 31, 2028.

The government has already rolled out targeted fuel subsidies for specific sectors such as public utility vehicle drivers, but a nationwide subsidy program has yet to be adopted.

‘Private schools may not use 3-term

By Rolando Ng III

PRIVATE schools may adopt their own class calendar instead of the three-term grading system recently approved by the Department of Education (DepEd), Education Secretary Sonny Angara confirmed.

Speaking to reporters during a school visit in Quezon City on Tuesday, Angara said private institutions have the flexibility to decide whether to follow the compressed academic schedule.

“Private schools are more flexible. They’re free to have their own school timeframe,” he said.

Angara emphasized that private schools must still comply with the prescribed curriculum and the minimum number of school days.

sched’

An alliance of private schools earlier said they are free to implement a separate learning calendar.

“Even before this proposal, private schools already had flexibility. Many private schools already have a threegrading-period school calendar,” said Joseph Noel Estrada of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines.

Angara also clarified that the three-term grading system differs from a trimester setup, addressing public confusion.

“Some thought we would implement a trimester every term. But it’s really just a three-term grading period because the same subjects are taken—the only difference is the grading periods,” he said.

IN BRIEF

Comelec to use ACMs in BARMM elections

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) will use automated counting machines (ACMs) for the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved a law resetting the polls to Sept. 14, 2026.

Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia said the poll body is studying the possibility of tapping South Korean firm Miru Systems as the provider of the ACMs to be used in the BARMM elections. Garcia said Comelec would need around 3,200 to 3,300 ACMs to automate vote counting and transmission, ensuring faster and more transparent results in the region. He added the commission will issue rules and guidelines for filing certificates of candidacy, submission of party nominees, and the setting of a new filing period. Vito Barcelo Cebu tourism execs worry over online scams CEBU CITY — Rising cases of online booking scams targeting tourists have alarmed hotel and resort owners in Cebu, with nearly 200 cases reported in 2025 totaling more than P1.229 million, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region VII. The concern was raised during the launch of the Cebu and Bohol “Turista Iwas Scam” campaign on March 24 at Parklane International Hotel in Cebu City, in collaboration with the Hotel and Resorts Association in Cebu, the Philippine National Police Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 7, and other tourism stakeholders. Nelson Yuvallos, president of the One Island Tourism Association in Bantayan Island, said more than 200,000 local and foreign tourists arrived in Bantayan Island resorts over two days without valid bookings after transacting with fake Facebook accounts. Some victims reportedly arrived crying after discovering they had been scammed. Minerva Newman

Conviction of ex-Agusan del Norte mayor upheld THE Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday upheld the conviction of a former Agusan del Norte mayor for malversation over her failure to liquidate cash advances from municipal development funds. In its decision, the High Court’s Third Division affirmed the Sandiganbayan ruling against Teresita J. Soliva, former mayor of the municipality of Remedios T. Romualdez, Agusan del Norte. The Court emphasized that malversation under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code is committed when an accountable officer entrusted with public funds misuses them and cannot satisfactorily explain why the funds are missing.

The tribunal said that while there was no direct proof of misuse, a shortage in accounts that cannot be explained is sufficient to establish liability. It noted that Soliva failed to overturn the presumption that the funds were used for personal gain. Pot Chavez

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2026 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Solon ties teenage pregnancy to poverty

IN BRIEF

300 Basilan ex-MILF fighters get assistance

THE Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), the Basilan provincial government, and stakeholders have provided livelihood assistance to 300 former members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as of February this year.

“Since February 26 this year, the Provincial Local Government Unit of Basilan and the OPAPRU, through its Localizing Normalization Implementation (LNI) and in coordination with Task Force on Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities, have already provided livelihood assistance to 300 MILF members, of which 288 are decommissioned combatants,” OPAPRU said in a statement Wednesday.

Aside from providing a major boost to small livelihood ventures, OPAPRU said assistance will also uplift the socioeconomic conditions of the decommissioned combatants and their families, as committed under the Normalization Program. Rex Espiritu

BJMP ramps up prison decongestion initiatives

THE Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) said on Wednesday it is pushing decongestion efforts in jails across the country to beat the summer heat, as well as to prevent the spread of diseases among the prisoners.

“Along with these initiative, we had early procurement of medicines and jail equipment that preempted the impact of inflation, including the increasing cost of providing healthcare for our persons deprived of liberty,” BJMP spokesperson Jayrex Bustinera said in an interview by “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.” Bustinera said the iail congestion rate in their facilities is currently at 294 percent, which is an improvement from last year’s 327 percent. He said that new facilities have been built in New Quezon City Jail, in Camp Bagong Diwa, in Mandaluyong City Jail, and in Marawi City Jail. Rex Espiritu

BJMP procures P46-m products from farmers

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday reported that the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) procured P46.1 million worth of fresh, high-quality, and locally produced agricultural products to ensure healthier meals for prisoners or persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). The setup was made possible through the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP), a convergence program of the BJMP and the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) that aims to mitigate hunger, ensure food and nutrition security, and reduce

PH officials renew call for solidarity on WPS

TOP Philippine security officials and maritime experts on Tuesday renewed their call for a united front on the West Philippine Sea issue even as they pressed for diplomacy, transparency and tighter security partnerships to assert the country’s 2016 arbitral victory over China.

Speaking at a forum organized by the Stratbase Institute and the Japanese embassy to to mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of bilateral ties, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Manila would remain anchored on international law even as Beijing’s actions at sea grow more assertive.

“In the face of the People’s Republic of China’s increasing assertiveness in the West Philippine Sea and the broader South China Sea, the Philippines remains firmly anchored in international law, diplomacy, and transparency,” Brawner said, describing the country’s posture as “principled restraint, coupled with resolve.”

Stratbase Institute president Prof. Victor Andres Manhit said defending Philippine sovereignty required a broader, multi-sectoral effort beyond government, underscoring the need for “strategic clarity” and stronger coordination with democratic partners.

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is poised to heighten its offensive against illegal online cockfighting, saying more “e-sabong” hubs across the country would be dismantled following a major operation in Tondo, Manila.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the recent crackdown was part of the sustained nationwide campaign against organized illegal gambling operations.

“We are intensifying intelligence-driven operations nationwide. This crackdown will continue until these illegal gambling hubs are completely dismantled,” he said.

Police on Tuesday night raided a 24-hour e-sabong operation in Tondo, resulting in the arrest of 172 people.

Nartatez said the operation exposed how illegal betting activities discreetly contined despite the nationwide ban.

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. issued Executive Order No. 9 in December 2022, reaffirming the nationwide suspension of e-sabong operations and ordering stricter enforcement against illegal gambling activities.

“Illegal e-sabong is a breeding ground for crime. It leads to financial ruin for families and fuels ‘petty crimes’ just to make a bet. It destroys the moral fiber of our community,” Nartatez explained.

“Apart from gambling, these hubs often involve unregulated crowds and tax evasion. It creates an environment where lawlessness thrives, affecting even those who are not playing,” he added.

“Because the next seventy years will not be defined by history—but by how we act today,” Manhit said. “In a region where the stakes continue to rise, the Philippines and Japan have both the opportunity and the responsibility to work together—to strengthen economic resilience, enhance security cooperation, and uphold the principles that keep our region stable and open.”

Philippine Coast Guard commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan said tensions in the West Philippine Sea were a “daily reality” for personnel on the front lines, framing maritime security as a fundamental right.

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE Assistant Minority Leader and Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Sarah Elago on Thursday warned that worsening economic conditions might deepen adolescent pregnancy problems that could further worsen without urgent government intervention.

Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Elago said 138,697 births in 2024 were to mothers aged 10 to 19, including 3,612 among girls below 15, as repeated oil price hikes trigger rising prices of basic goods and services.

She also cited the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), which showed a stark economic gap: 10.3 percent of young women aged 15–19 in the poorest households had experienced pregnancy, compared to 1.8 percent in the wealthiest.

Elago called for immediate economic relief, including wage increases, price controls on basic goods, and support for low-income households. She also noted that the Makabayan bloc has filed House Bill 8765 to place diesel and gasoline under automatic price freeze and caps to help curb rising fuel costs.

“Poverty remains the main reason for the increase in adolescent pregnancies,” she said, adding that several of the teenage pregnancies involved older men.

“Amid the continued rise in commodity prices and successive oil price hikes, these cases are expected to increase further if the economic crisis and child protection are not immediately addressed,” she added.

Under Republic Act 11648, enacted in 2022 and principally authored by Gabriela Women’s Party, sexual relations with individuals below 16 years old are considered rape.

By Nash B. Maulana

OPINION

Audit of shame in BARMM

THERE is no polite way to say this: what has been uncovered inside the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is not mere incompetence; it reeks of reckless, systemic abuse of public funds under the watch of Mohagher Iqbal.

To put this in its historical context, Iqbal was one of the senior leaders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and served primarily as the organization’s chief negotiator during the peace talks with the Philippine government. He played a central role in the talks that resulted in the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). After the peace agreement, Iqbal was appointed to lead the body that drafted the law creating the Bangsamoro autonomous region. The findings of the Commission on Audit (COA) have stripped away any illusion of routine irregularity. What remains is a damning portrait of a leadership that either lost control and worse, chose not to exercise it, over P2.2 billion intended for the most vulnerable learners in the BARMM. Let’s be clear: this happened on Iqbal’s watch. Leadership is not ceremonial. Accountability does not evaporate at the top. The numbers alone are staggering and suspicious. P1.77 billion in textbook disbursements released in a single day. Another P449 million funneled to a lone supplier for learning kits.

These are not administrative quirks. These are transactions that demand scrutiny, not blind approval. Yet that is precisely what happened. Seventy-three disbursement vouchers worth over P2.2 billion were processed and paid with little more than internal certifications. No complete documentation. No rigorous checks. No adherence to procurement law. Just signatures: convenient, expedient, and now, deeply questionable. This is not governance. This is a conveyor belt of cash. And where was the minister while all this was unfolding? At best, asleep at the wheel. At worst, presiding over a system where rules were treated as optional and safeguards as inconveniences. The audit goes deeper—and uglier. Fifty-three contracts, nearly P2 billion in value, were riddled with “material defects.” Joint ventures misrepresented. Accountability diluted. Contracts signed without performance securities, as if compliance were an afterthought rather than a legal requirement. And then the final insult: a supplier delivering armchairs 520 days late, or over a year beyond deadline, without paying a single peso in penalties that should have

reached P16 million.

In any functioning system, that alone would trigger dismissals. Here, it passed. What does that say about the culture inside MBHTE under Iqbal? It says rules are negotiable. It says delay has no consequence. It says public money is treated with alarming casualness.

This would already be scandalous anywhere.

The discovery reeks of reckless, systemic abuse of public funds under the watch of Mohagher Iqbal

In BARMM, it is devastating. Because this is a region whose education sector is already struggling, as underscored by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM2). Classrooms lack resources, while teachers are overburdened.

Students fight uphill battles just to stay in school. And yet, billions meant to ease that burden were instead trapped in dubious transactions and hollow compliance.

Every missing document is a missing safeguard. Every rushed payment is a risk imposed on the public. Every delayed delivery is a child left waiting. Iqbal cannot hide behind bureaucracy. He cannot pass this off as a technical lapse.

The scale, the pattern, the brazenness: all these point to a failure of leadership that is impossible to ignore. Autonomy in BARMM was meant to be a promise: a chance to govern better, closer, and more responsibly. But under this cloud of scandal, that promise is beginning to look dangerously hollow.

The COA has already issued its warning: explain, or the findings stand. But the real question is no longer procedural. It is moral.

Will there be accountability at the top?

Or will this, like so many scandals before it, dissolve into silence, excuses, and selective amnesia?

Because if Mohagher Iqbal remains untouched by consequences, then this “audit of shame” is not just about procurement failures.

It is about a system that protects power more than it protects the people it was meant to serve. (Email: ernhil@yahoo. com)

Holy Week in a Time of War

PALM Sunday falls on March 29, 2026. It opens Holy Week, the Church’s most sacred season. The faithful recall Christ’s humble entry into Jerusalem. That entry changed the world forever. The crowds welcomed Jesus with palm branches and shouts. They cried, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” They hoped for a conquering king. They received something far greater instead. The liturgy that day holds a dual character. It begins in joy and ends in sorrow. The palms honor Christ’s kingship. But that kingship leads not to a throne, only a cross. Christ entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. This fulfilled Zechariah’s prophecy of a peaceful Messiah. He brought no army, no weapons, no force. He brought only love and obedience to the Father. The Passion Gospel is proclaimed during Mass. It confronts the faithful with betrayal and injustice. It also reveals perfect obedience to God’s will. Human praise quickly became cries for crucifixion.

This mirrors our world with painful accuracy. Public sentiment today shifts with frightening speed. Fear, anger, and misinformation drive people apart. The Gospel warns us against this moral instability. Jerusalem in Christ’s time was a city under occupation. Religious divisions and political tensions ran deep. Many wanted a Messiah who would use force. Jesus refused to meet violence with violence. That refusal speaks directly to the Middle East today. War continues to devastate communities and families. It hardens divisions and forecloses paths to peace. Christ’s example challenges every assumption about power. He entered on a donkey, a sign of peace. This was deliberate and deeply prophetic. Lasting peace cannot come through domi-

nation or retaliation. His model insists on the dignity of every person.

Two popes have made this call urgent in our time. Pope Francis declared repeatedly that war is always a defeat. “War always marks the failure of peace,” he said. “It is always a defeat for humanity.” Those words remain a reproach to every government choosing bombs over dialogue.

Pope Leo XIV has echoed that cry with equal force. “We must not get used to war!” he exclaimed from St. Peter’s Square. In his first World Day of Peace message, he called for a peace that is “unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering.” He named it clearly: peace that comes from God, not from weapons.

Palm Sunday exposes the limits of coercive power. Political systems built on rivalry and selfinterest fail

In March 2026, addressing the war in Iran and the Middle East, Pope Leo prayed that the thunderous sound of bombs may cease, that weapons may fall silent, and that a space for dialogue may open up. He warned the conflict could spread further, engulfing more nations and peoples. This is the voice of the Church in our Holy Week.

This year carries yet another resonance.

Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed a special Year of St. Francis, marking the 800th anniversary of Francis of Assisi’s passing into heaven. The Poverello of Assisi lived

Stop-gap solution

THE decision of the Marcos Jr. administration to expand cash assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers outside the National Capital Region reflects both the scale of the current fuel price shock and the political sensitivity of transport costs in the Philippines.

With global oil prices rising due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, the government is under tremendous pressure to prevent a repeat of past transport strikes and fare hikes.

By extending subsidies beyond NCR, the administration is acknowledging that the impact of high fuel prices is nationwide, especially in provincial areas where drivers have thin profit margins and fewer passengers per trip.

The structure of the aid package: a one-time ₱5,000 cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development plus fuel subsidies from the Department of Transportation, shows that the government is trying to combine social protection with sectorspecific relief.

This approach is politically practical but economically limited. A onetime payout can cushion the immediate shock, but it does not address the structural vulnerability of the transport sector to global oil price volatility.

The Philippines remains heavily dependent on imported petroleum.

This means that any geopolitical disruption, from the Strait of Hormuz to broader Middle East instability, quickly leads to domestic pump prices. As long as this dependency persists, subsidy programs will remain reactive rather than preventive.

There is also a political impact behind expanding the subsidy outside NCR

Another important dimension is the link between fuel prices, transport fares, and inflation. PUV drivers are among the first to demand fare increases when diesel prices surge, and fare hikes ripple through the economy by raising the cost of commuting, logistics, and food distribution. By providing subsidies, the govern-

By Melandrew Velasco

THERE are moments in our national life when wealth is tested—not by how much is accumulated, but by how much is given back.

We witnessed this truth during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022.

At a time when fear and uncertainty blanketed the nation, it was not only government that rose to the occasion.

The Filipino taipans—our captains of industry—stepped forward with speed, scale, and sincerity. They built emergency hospitals, secured life-saving vaccines, donated billions, and protected livelihoods.

Leaders like Ramon S. Ang, Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Enrique Razon Jr., Lance Gokongwei, and Manuel V. Pangilinan did not wait for directives.

I have written several articles about the exploits of Ramon Ang, Chairman and CEO of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), who played a significant role in the Philippines’ private sector response to the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing “life over money” by leveraging his conglomerate’s resources for humanitarian aid, food security, and infrastructure support.

His actions included repurposing manufacturing facilities for alcohol production, funding massive food drives, and supporting healthcare facilities.

Early in the pandemic, Ang personally donated ₱100 million in 2020 to fight COVID-19. He also spearheaded the donation of PCR testing machines, RNA extraction machines, and test kits, expanding the country’s testing capacity by 15,000 tests per day.

Under his leadership, SMC launched a nationwide food donation drive, distributing meals to poor communities. Despite significant losses, Ang guaranteed that over 66,000 SMC employees would receive full salaries and benefits.

He also ensured that SMC was the first company in the Philippines to build a COVID-19 testing facility specifically for its workforce.

What’s remarkable about Ang’s philoso-

in a world of religious wars and civic conflict. Yet he walked unarmed across enemy lines. He built bridges where the world raised walls.

A prayer for this jubilee year captures it precisely. Francis, unarmed, crossed the lines of war and misunderstanding. The prayer asks his intercession so that we may become peacemakers, unarmed and disarming witnesses of the peace that comes from Christ. Eight hundred years later, his witness loses none of its power.

Filipinos feel all of this in a particular way. We live in a region where war’s tremors reach our shores. The conflict in the Middle East raises fuel prices and threatens our workers abroad.

Fear spreads quietly but deeply, especial-

ment is effectively trying to delay or reduce pressure for fare adjustments.

This may help keep inflation manageable in the short term, which is crucial at a time when the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is still trying to keep price growth within target. However, subsidies also carry fiscal costs, and repeated cash assistance programs can strain the national budget if global oil prices remain elevated for months rather than weeks.

There is also a political impact behind expanding the subsidy outside NCR. Provincial drivers form a large and vocal sector, and discontent among transport groups has historically led to coordinated strikes that disrupt economic activity.

With the administration already facing public concern over rising food and fuel prices, broadening the coverage of assistance reduces the risk of unrest while projecting an image of responsiveness.

The timing of the rollout after Holy Week further suggests an attempt to manage public sentiment during a period when travel demand is high leads to more fuel consumption.

In the end, the subsidy expansion is a necessary short-term measure but not a long-term solution.

The recurring cycle of fuel price spikes followed by emergency subsidies highlights the need for deeper reforms, such as accelerating the transition to more fuel-efficient or electric public transport, improving mass transit systems, and reviewing fuel tax and energy security policies.

When wealth must answer the call

phy during the pandemic was that businesses could recover lost money, but lost lives could not be replaced.

He advocated for a balanced approach to the lockdown, emphasizing that while his companies faced heavy losses (with oil firm Petron incurring significant losses), the priority was saving lives, including his own, as he contracted COVID-19 three times.

RSA, like his fellow taipans, understood that in times of national distress, leadership demands initiative.

Taipans understood that in times of national distress leadership demands initiative

Today, the Philippines faces a different kind of catastrophic storm brought about by the war in the Middle East among United States, Iran and Israel.

While we are no longer in lockdowns, the Filipino people are once again facing a convergence of crises—rising costs of living, climate-induced disasters, water and food insecurity, and widening inequality.

The emergencies may be less visible than a virus, but they are just as real—and in many ways, more enduring. The question now is simple: Will our taipans rise again?

This is not a call for charity alone. It is a call for nation-building at scale.

During COVID-19, we witnessed what coordinated private sector leadership can achieve. Perhaps, we can once again summon the Filipino spirit of Bayanihan. That same model—bold, decisive, and collaborative—can be deployed today. What is needed now is scale. And scale requires the participation of those who have the resources, reach, and influence to move the needle—the taipans. This is not about

ly in Mindanao, where our people know too well what violence costs. We have buried our own. We have wept over our own ruins. That memory makes Palm Sunday not an abstraction but a wound still tender. Palm Sunday exposes the limits of coercive power. Political systems built on rivalry and self-interest fail. Jesus demonstrated a radically different vision of authority. It is rooted in service, not dominance. This Sunday is not only remembrance. It is commitment renewed in a broken world. The faithful are asked to carry their own palms. And to walk, always, in the path of peace. Holy Week begins with a procession we join together. We walk with Christ toward His suffering and death. We trust in the victory re-

replacing government. It is about reinforcing it.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has repeatedly emphasized that public-private partnerships are key to national development. But partnerships must go beyond infrastructure and extend into social and environmental resilience especially during this critical time heightened by the Middle East war.

The private sector has always been one of the Philippines’ greatest strengths. Agile, innovative, and deeply rooted in community, our conglomerates are uniquely positioned to respond faster and more effectively than most institutions.

But beyond capability lies something even more powerful: malasakit.

It is this Filipino value—compassion translated into action—that defined the private sector’s response during the pandemic. And it is this same spirit that must guide us today.

This call is not only for the taipans but also for our rich and powerful politicians. Let us be candid: many who hold public office today are not only leaders—they are among the most affluent in the land. With influence comes responsibility. With privilege comes obligation.

Public service must go beyond policy pronouncements and ribbon-cutting ceremonies. It must include personal stake—real, tangible, measurable contribution. In times like these, the Filipino people deserve more than governance. They deserve shared sacrifice. Because the crises we face now are not temporary disruptions. They are structural challenges that will define the future of our nation.

And history will ask: When the Filipino people needed help once more—who stepped up?

(The writer, president/chief executive officer of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. and president/executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-government outfit advocating tree-planting and environmental protection, is the official biographer of President Fidel V. Ramos.)

vealed on Easter morning. That trust must shape how we live now, in a world still bleeding from war.

(Note on author: Dean Antonio Gabriel La Viña is a professor of law, philosophy, politics and governance in several universities, including in Mindanao. He has been a human rights lawyer for 36 years. He is the managing partner of La Viña Zarate and Associates, a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Chair of the Jurisprudence and Legal Philosophy Department of the Philippine Judicial Academy, founding president of the Movement Against Disinformation, and founding chair of the Mindanao Climate Justice Resource Facility and the Mindanao Center for Scholarships, Sports, and Spirituality.)

Hezbollah rejects truce talks

BEIRUT – Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem said negotiations with Israel under fire would amount to “surrender,” as the Iran-backed group launched attacks and Israel said it was expanding a “buffer zone” inside Lebanon.

Israel, which occupied southern Lebanon for around two decades until 2000, has kept up strikes on its northern neighbour and sent ground troops to take control of a strip up to the Litani River, around 30 kilometers from the border.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military had already “created a genuine security zone” and was now expending it, pushing deeper

Ex-Taipei mayor jailed 17 years for corruption

into Lebanon.

“We are simply creating a larger buffer zone” that could prevent a ground invasion of Israel and missile attacks, Netanyahu said in a video shared by his office. Hezbollah meanwhile issued dozens of statements claiming attacks on Israeli forces, and said it also launched missiles early on Thursday at military sites in central Israel, where air raid sirens sounded.

Israeli media said six Hezbollah rockets headed for central areas were all intercepted.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on both sides to cease fire. He warned Israel against replicating “the Gaza model” in southern Lebanon as some Israeli officials have suggested, raising fears of mass displacement.

Hezbollah said its fighters had launched more than 80 attacks on Wednesday, the largest daily number in the current war, and attacked Israeli forces in nine border towns.

Israel’s military said that one of its soldiers was severely wounded by rocket fire in southern Lebanon, having earlier reported an officer being lightly injured in combat. Rockets fired towards the Haifa area in northern Israel resulted in no injuries. Lebanon was pulled into the Middle East war when Hezbollah began firing rockets into Israel on March 2 to avenge the killing of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In an attempt to put an end to the fighting, Lebanon’s president is calling for unprecedented direct negotiations with Israel, which has so far rebuffed his proposal.

TAIPEI – A former Taipei City mayor who once ran for the presidency was sentenced on Thursday to 17 years in prison for taking bribes and misusing political donations.

Ko Wen-je, the founder of the Taiwan People’s Party, which has become a third force in Taiwanese politics, was found guilty by the Taipei District Court where dozens of supporters had gathered ahead of the verdict.

Hezbollah chief Qassem said Wednesday his group would have none of it: “When negotiations with the Israeli enemy are proposed under fire, this is an imposition of surrender.” AFP

Myanmar’s rebuild stutters year after deadly earthquake

MANDALAY, Myanmar – The gaping holes torn in a road to Mandalay by last year’s devastating earthquake have been filled in, and the route in northern Myanmar partly resurfaced.

But only a few of the broken spans of the historic Ava Bridge have been removed, while the others still droop into the river where hundreds of newly homeless people bathed in the aftermath of the disaster.

More than 3,800 people in Myanmar -- and around 90 more in neighbouring Thailand -- were killed when the 7.7-magnitude tremor struck on March 28, 2025.

AFP was the only international news agency on the ground in Myanmar’s capital Naypyidaw when the quake hit, with its team the first international journalists to reach the city of Mandalay.

A year on, reporters returning to the affected areas found a mixed picture of reconstruction work.

In Naypyidaw, the collapsed concrete awning of the main hospital’s emergency department -- which crushed a car when it came down -- has been replaced with a new, lighter structure, with a plastic roof.

A rare unguarded photo of junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, looking flustered as he sought to direct rescue efforts at the hospital, was one of many by AFP that captured the destruction after the quake, which came during a years-long civil war. Mandalay, an ancient royal capital hemmed by jungle-clad mountains and the snaking Irrawaddy river, bore the brunt of the damage. AFP

southern Lebanese village of Dayr Seryan on Thursday. Lebanon was pulled into the Middle East war when Tehranbacked militant group Hezbollah began firing rockets into Israel on March 2 to avenge the killing of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. AFP

North Korea, Belarus sign ‘friendship’ treaty

SEOUL – North Korea and Belarus’s strongmen leaders signed a “friendship and cooperation” treaty on Thursday after Kim Jong Un gave a lavish welcome to President Alexander Lukashenko on his maiden visit.

Besides supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine -- around 2,000 North Korean soldiers are thought to have died -- both nations are under Western sanctions and are accused of gross human rights violations. The two men met last year in China. “In the modern realities of global

transformation -- at a time when the world’s major powers openly ignore and violate the norms of international law -independent countries must cooperate more closely and consolidate their efforts aimed at protecting their sovereignty and improving the well-being of their citizens,” Belarusian state news agency Belta quoted Lukashenko as saying.

“We oppose the illegitimate pressure on Belarus from the West and express our support and understanding for the measures taken by the leadership of Belarus aimed at ensuring social and politi-

cal stability and economic development,” Belta quoted Kim as saying. Earlier Belta showed Kim and Lukashenko hugging at a lavish welcome programme on Wednesday at the start of the two-day visit involving an artillery salute and goose-stepping soldiers before a large flag-waving crowd. Lukashenko visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun -- where Kim’s embalmed father and grandfather lie in state -- to pay his respects, flanked by top North Korean officials, the Korean Central News Agency reported. AFP

Venezuela’s Maduro, 63, back in US court after capture that ousted him

will of US President Donald Trump. Maduro has declared himself a “prisoner of war” and pleaded not guilty to the four counts of “narco-terrorism” conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, possession of machine guns and destructive devices,

Ko, 66, was charged in Dec. 2024 with corruption relating to a property development when he was Taipei’s mayor.

He was also indicted for misusing donations for the TPP and a charity foundation, and breach of trust.

In addition to the combined 17-year sentence, Ko was banned from running for public office for six years, the court said.

Prosecutors had sought a combined jail term of 28 years and six months. Ko, who served two terms as Taipei mayor from 2014 to 2022, denied wrongdoing, a member of his legal team told AFP on Thursday.

The property scandal concerned a redevelopment project that saw its floor area ratio substantially increased -- done with the city government’s approval which allegedly benefited the developer.

Ko received more than NT$17 million ($532,000) in bribes and was involved in the embezzlement of more than NT$68 million of political donations made to the TPP and a company linked to the party. He also misused around NT$8.27 million in donations for a social welfare foundation for his presidential campaign. AFP

Cambodia court upholds 14-years jail for newsmen

PHNOM PENH – A Cambodian court upheld 14-year prison sentences on Thursday for two journalists convicted of treason for posting a photo taken in a military-restricted area after a round of border clashes with Thailand, a rights group said. Journalists Pheap Phara and Phorn Sopheap were arrested in late July after posting a photo on Facebook that appeared to show them with Cambodian soldiers at the centuries-old Ta Krabei temple, located on the disputed frontier with Thailand, according to local rights group LICADHO.

Thai media outlets later republished the image, alleging it showed unplaced landmines in the background, the group said in a statement.

The Southeast Asian nations’ decadeslong border dispute erupted into several rounds of clashes last year, killing dozens of people and displacing more than a million in July and December. AFP

EU experts want broad restrictions on ‘chemicals’

HELSINKI – “Forever chemicals” pose a growing risk to health and the environment and should be broadly banned across the European Union, with some exceptions, EU experts said in findings published on Thursday.

The substances, officially called PFAS, a group of more than 10,000 chemicals used in non-stick pans, stain-proof carpets, and other products -- and often end up tainting food, water and wildlife.

Two committees of EU experts on Thursday published findings that highlighted their effects and that called for broad restrictions on the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

“PFAS pose growing risks to people and the environment. They are highly persistent, remaining in the environment for long periods, travelling long distances, contaminating groundwater and soil, while some cause serious health issues, such as cancer and reproductive harm,” one of the committees said in a statement accompanying its findings. AFP

Nepal report recommends prosecuting ex-PM KATHMANDU – A Nepal governmentbacked report into the deadly September 2025 uprising has recommended the prosecution of ex-prime minister KP Sharma Oli and other officials.

At least 77 people were killed in the anti-corruption youth uprising on September 8 and 9, which began over a brief social media ban, but tapped into longstanding fury over economic hardship. At least 19 young people were killed in a crackdown on the first day of protests. No one has been convicted for the deaths.

“It was decided to recommend to the Government of Nepal that an investigation, inquiry, and prosecution be carried out against the then executive head, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli,” a leaked copy of the report said, released by local media and seen by AFP on Thursday. It added that Ramesh Lekhak, the former interior minister, as well as former police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung, also be investigated and prosecuted, according to the report. AFP

The Philippines’ Marlen Marasigan, Althea Campaña and Angelina Elvira compete in the women junior team elite race. PhilCycling Photo

Tagaytay CT Velodrome gets official certification from UCI

TAGAYTAY City—China, Chinese-Taipei and South Korea emerged as dominant forces in the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC) Track and Para Track Championships as the International Cycling Union (UCI) certified the Tagaytay CT Velodrome as a Category A facility.

“We are now officially a UCI track destination,” said PhilCycling president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Thursday. “With a Category A homologation, we can now host world cups and even the world championships.”

The homologation certificate— signed by UCI Track and Indoor Cycling Manager Jessika Grand Bois— came a day before Wednesday’s opening of the 16-nation, 600-athlete championships that the country is

hosting for the first time in 31 years.

China, meanwhile, proved unstoppable in winning the sprint gold medals in men and women elite with Chinese-Taipei ruling the men’s junior team sprint race and South Korea bringing home the mint in women’s junior team sprint.

China clocked 42.981 seconds late Wednesday with Japan failing to finish and Hong Kong snatching silver, a feat matched by the Chinese women,

who pedaled to the gold in 46.806 seconds over Malaysia and South Korea.

Yun Chieh Tsai, Yi Kuan Lin and Zi Qi Wei delivered a near-perfect ride for Chinese Taipei with a 45.314-second nail-biting finish for the gold medal—they beat the Koreans by 12 thousands of a second in the final.

Korea’s young riders delivered a commanding performance of 50.076 seconds to win the team sprint event over India and Malaysia.

Kazakhstan executed a near flawless race to earn gold, followed by Chinese Taipei and Uzbekistan in the team pursuit, which the Chinese elite team also ruled in 3:48.14, maintaining a relentless tempo against Japan.

Team Philippines, on the other hand, went through its baptism of fire

right at home—a performance that’s expected of the inexperienced team competing in a world-class competition.

“The disappointments are expected, but the good thing about the team is that the riders bettered themselves from training,” said PhilCycling track coach Virgilio Espiritu. Plunging to early action in the championships were the men junior team sprint riders Prince Andrei Pedragosa, Asher Job Albo and Kaizel Jizmundo, while Marlen Marasigan, Althea Mae Campana and Angeline Elvira carried the fight in the women’s contest.

Matt Andrei Gonzalo, Archie Cardana and Marcus Gabriel Ricalde raced in the men elite team sprint race.

King Crunchers chase sweep as Final 4 cast braces for battle

CRISS Cross guns for an elimination-round sweep as it faces the same squad that handed it one of its rare blemishes, while the rest of the semifinal cast gears up for a final tune-up ahead of the high-stakes Final Four in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Friday at Paco Arena in Manila.

Though the playoff picture is already set, intensity is expected to spike in the final triple-header of the prelims with Criss Cross, Savouge, Alpha Insurance and AEP-Cabstars all looking to build momentum and send a strong message before the semifinal grind begins. With a 9-0 record, the King Crunchers have emerged as the clear team to beat, showcasing dominance and depth throughout the tournament. But despite their near-flawless run, nothing is guaranteed in the next phase, where the Spin Doctors, Cabstars and the Protectors are all poised to turn the semis into a wide-open battle for the coveted finals berths.

Still, Criss Cross remains locked in on finishing what it started.

The King Crunchers take on the 3B Event Masters at 5 p.m., carrying not only momentum but an aura of invincibility into the round-robin semis of the Sports Vision-organized tilt. Their campaign has been nothing short of dominant – winning all nine matches while

OUR latest dispatch from Turkey is that the Philippine National Men’s Football Team is already complete following the arrival of Zico Bailey Wednesday night.

It also confirmed that Raphael Obermair has started practicing with the team. In a quick chat yesterday afternoon (7 a.m. in Kocaeli), Daisuke Sato says team morale is quite high and the energy going around the team is much better than expected.

The One Taguig FC defender and many-time national team mainstay is relishing the opportunity of wearing the sun and the stars once again.

“It’s my biggest honor to be back and represent the country, to wear the flag again. I’m very happy. I can’t describe with words how happy I am right now,” he said. Sato was away from the national team for the last two years. Despite missing several call-ups, Sato said he never lost faith in playing once more for the country.

“I already prepared for this day to come and now everything is how I imagined it to be,” he explained.

Sato also said the team is a good mix of veterans and young players that bring a lot of energy and talent to the team. He is also grateful that most of the players are match fit coming to Turkey (due to ongoing tournaments in their respective leagues). He also has nice words to say to his newest teammate, Obermair, who will finally play for the country after several years of waiting.

“I saw him smiling. He has a good sense of humor. He likes to have fun with the team. He is very happy to be here and I’m equally happy to see that we are all connected. I can feel that we are already a family because at the end of the day, we are all Filipinos ready to accomplish the goal,” Daisuke said. The goal is to win and take the full three points against

To further elevate the country’s volleyball landscape and enhance fan engagement, the Premier Volleyball League and the Spikers’ Turf have renewed their partnership with ArenaPlus, extending their deal for a third consecutive year in a contract signing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday. PVL Control Committee chairman Sherwin Malonzo represented both leagues, while Jasper Vicencio, official representative of Total Gamezone Extreme, Inc., signed on behalf of ArenaPlus during the ceremony held just hours before the PVL qualifying round matches.

dropping just two sets, even as they rotated a talent-rich lineup that underscored their depth and system.

Interestingly, one of those two lost sets came against the Event Masters in their previous encounter last March 6. Criss Cross dropped the opening frame, 2225, before roaring back with a convincing 25-10, 25-13, 25-15 victory.

This time, the King Crunchers are determined to leave no room for resistance as they chase a sweep of the elims.

Their depth was again on full display in their most recent outing, where the reserves saw extended minutes in a straight-sets win over VNS. Jaron Requinton led the charge with 16 points, highlighting the team’s ability to deliver regardless of personnel on the floor.

Requinton stressed that the team’s mindset remains unchanged heading into their final elms match.

“Same mindset pa rin, walang pagkakaiba. Kailangan pa rin naming pagtrabahuhan ‘yung last game namin this preliminaries and stick pa rin kami sa goal namin, which is mag back-to-back champion this conference,” he said.

“Trabaho pa rin talaga, lalo na papunta ng semis kasi for sure nababasa na kami ng ibang kalaban so kailangan mas doblehin namin ‘y ung trabaho namin,” he added. On the other side, 3B is eager to close out its campaign on a high note – and potentially play spoiler. The Event Masters will rely on Christhian Olaes, John Vincent Ramos, and Axel Defeo to orchestrate their offense and mount a serious upset bid against the league’s most dominant squad.

Pushpa jhukega nahi, sala

a dangerous Tajikistan side, supported by a hostile hometown crowd, on the 31st.

“We are enjoying the training and the process. We are committed and we will do everything to win the game against Tajikistan and we will qualify for the Asian Cup,” Sato added.

Sato knows the importance of the Tajikistan match which is a do-or-die game. If the Philippines loses the game, the team will practically pack its bags to go home to obscurity.

“I will do everything I can for this not to happen,” Sato added.

Which brings us to another matter that should’ve not happened. Just moments after the Filipinas qualified to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, a very unfortunate incident happened. A certain official who has this knack of inserting himself into controversies remained true to form. You see this official posted something on his social media account.

The post, which contained inappropriate language and emoji along with disparaging shade against “bashers” was immediately deleted, but not after several eagle-eyed and fast on the draw fans took screenshots of the before and after postings. Despite the uproar and the subsequent criticisms, the national sporting association has remained mum on the incident.

Moreover, despite getting the ire of the real benefactor and patron of the beleaguered association, the official has not been sanctioned until now.

Too bad that a regional association has not read the apparent memo to be quiet and possibly let another lapse of judgment by this official slide.

In a letter to the sporting association’s president, this brave regional association formally expressed its “serious concern regarding the conduct” of the controversial official.

The letter stated that “there has been a troubling pattern of behavior that falls short of the standards expected of an individual holding such a critical leadership role.”

Moreover, the complaint claimed that his actions “taken collectively, reflect unbecoming of his position and raise significant concerns about professionalism, accountability and representation.”

Aside from his conduct, the regional association made mention, too, of his “continued disregard for professional standards rather than evidence of corrective learning.”

This alleged disregard of professionalism include conflicts of interest, his behavior during a collegiate tournament, his suspension from an international sporting event after a heated argument against a game official (which led to his ejection from the game along with a heavy fine and multiple-game suspension), failure to attend a pre-competition meeting for the national team he is leading in favor of a school, where he also occupies a key role. Incidentally, he was also banished from the finals of that tournament due to another incident with game officials.

To cut the long story short, the regional association has firmly requested a formal review and evaluation of the conduct of the controversial official “to determine his continued suitability for his role” within the association.

The letter was sent to the association president and shared to other member regional associations exactly a week ago. The fact that nothing has happened for the last seven days and the association has remained silent on this says a lot. For The Designated Kit Man, the biggest red flag that this official made was during the first time they faced the media when he said that “the recruitment of Fil-Foreign players has already served its purpose.” It has been downhill from there. Tagay pa! Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

Torrente, Rufino top Olivarez tilt

UNRANKED Lilith Rufino delivered a breakthrough performance, toppling a string of seeded opponents to capture the girls’ 16-and-under crown in the Rep. Eric Olivarez Cup Juniors Age-Group Championships at the Olivarez Sports Center and Parañaque tennis courts last weekend. Rufino set the tone early, dismantling No. 6 Talitha Lopez, 6-0, 6-3, after advancing via a 1-0 (ret.) result over Michaela Nantes. She sustained her momentum with a gritty 5-7, 6-2, 10-8 upset of third seed Chiara Bate, then dominated No. 2 Izabelle Camcam, 6-1, 6-1, in the semifinals. Facing top seed Astrid Cablitas for the championship, Rufino showcased poise and control from the outset, cruising to a commanding 6-2, 6-0 victory to secure her first major title in the Group 2 tournament sanctioned by Philta and Universal Tennis Ranking. The triumph served as redemption for the Makati City standout, who earlier fell short in the 14-and-U finals, losing a pair of tight tiebreak sets to unseeded Michaela Suarez, 7-6(3), 7-6(3).

Despite that setback, Rufino’s title and runner-up finish earned her a share of the Most Valuable Player honors alongside Yuan Torrente, who mirrored her feat in the boys’ side. Torrente captured the boys’ 12-andU title with a 6-3, 6-1 rout of Raven Licayan, bouncing back from a 6-3, 6-2 loss to Jan Caleb Villeno in the 14-and-U finals.

The five-day tournament, held in honor of Rep. Eric Olivarez and backed by the Palawan Group of Companies, Dunlop and ICON Golf & Sports, drew a record 230 participants and produced a remarkable outcome –no player managed to win two titles, underscoring the depth and parity of the field.

Sabalenka, Rybakina duel again

MIAMI—World number one Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina on Wednesday booked a blockbuster semifinal at the Miami Open in a rerun of their Melbourne Grand Slam decider. Defending champion Sabalenka held off big-hitting 45th-ranked American Hailey Baptiste 6-4, 6-4. World number two Rybakina beat fifth-seeded American Jessica Pegula -- runner-up to Sabalenka last year -2-6, 6-3, 6-4. They will return Thursday at Hard Rock Stadium -- home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins -- to fight for a place in the final.

Rybakina beat Sabalenka in a nailbiting Australian Open final in January -- the world number one’s only defeat in 2026 -- but the Belarusian avenged it with victory in the Indian Wells final this month.

“We’ve been playing a lot of matches, recently actually, and all of them have been a battle, all of them been a show,” Sabalenka told the Tennis Channel. “I’m super-excited facing her.”

Sabalenka is now two wins away from completing the “Sunshine Double” of Indian Wells and Miami. Baptiste, playing her first WTA 1000 quarter-final, failed to convert three break points in Sabalenka’s first two service games.

Sabalenka finally broke Baptiste when the American double-faulted on set point.

Sabalenka gained an early break in the second, but Baptiste broke back and held confidently to level at 4-4. But as she served at 4-5 to stay in the match, the American opened with three

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Tajikistan, PH face off for Asian Cup football berth

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippine men’s national football team heads into a decisive away clash with Tajikistan on Tuesday in a match that will determine the Group A winner in the final stage of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.

The victor will book a ticket to the tournament proper set from January 7 to February 5 in Saudi Arabia.

“After a five-day training camp in Turkey, we will approach the match against Tajikistan with the intention of securing three points and qualifying for the next AFC Cup,” said head coach Carles Cuadrat in a statement.

Kickoff is set at 10 p.m. (Philippine time) at the Hisor Central Stadium in Dushanbe.

A win would send the Philippines back to the Asian Cup for a second appearance. Both the Philippines and Tajikistan share identical 4-1-0 win-drawloss records atop Group A, making the encounter a winner-take-all affair.

“For a match of this importance, we are making sure the national team takes the field with its strongest possible lineup. This is a moment we have prepared for, and we intend to meet it head-on,” said John Gutierrez, president of the Philippine Football Federation.

Leading the squad are striker Bjorn Kristensen, vice-captain Sandro Reyes, Zico Bailey, goalkeeper Kevin Ray Mendoza, Jeper Nyholm, and Jarvey Gayoso.

Veteran co-captains Manny Ott and Amani Aguinaldo add experience to the lineup, along with returning campaigners Daisuke Sato and Patrick Deyto.

Bundesliga-based standouts Gerrit Holtmann and debutant Raphael Obermair are also expected to see action.

Jr Lady Altas draw 1st blood with Lady Braves

By Dennis Abrina

SHERRIE Rose Acosta and Elizha Sildo delivered identical 14-point performances as the Perpetual Junior Lady Altas seized Game 1 of the NCAA Season 101 Volleyball Fiesta (Girls Division) Finals with a convincing 25-19, 25-11, 25-23 sweep of the Arellano Lady Braves on Thursday at the Arellano Gym in Pasay City.

The squad of coach Sandy Rieta wasted little time asserting control, wrapping up the match in just one hour and 14 minutes to move within a win of reclaiming the crown.

Acosta tallied her 14 points from 12 attacks, a block, and an ace, while also contributing eight excellent receptions. Imus native Sildo matched her output with 12 attack points and two blocks, along with three digs and two receptions. Middle blocker Ramiel Panganiban anchored the net with 12 points built on nine attacks and three blocks, while setter Jasmin Monte orchestrated the offense with 17 excellent sets, adding a dig and a point. Libero Janine Espiritu steadied the floor defense with 15 digs and eight receptions.

Catherine Chu carried the fight for Arellano U with 16 points, all coming from attacks.

The Las Piñas-based Junior Lady Altas now eye Game 2 on Monday at 8 a.m., hoping to complete the job and reclaim the championship that the Lady Braves took from them in Season 100.

BEERMEN EDGE FIBERXERS.

Converge’s Mikey Williams scores against June Mar Fajardo of San Miguel Beer in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup at the Ynares Sports Center on Wednesday night.

But the reigning MVP had the last laugh with a double-double of 27 points and 17 rebounds, to go with three assists and two steals as the Beermen edged the FiberXers, 103-99.

Pacquiao to begin training for clash with Mayweather

By Randy M. Caluag

FILIPINO ring icon Manny Pacquiao said he will begin training soon for his highly anticipated September 19 rematch with Floyd Mayweather Jr., signalling the start of preparations for one of boxing’s biggest events this year.

Speaking briefly to reporters during a business event in Taguig, the 47-year-old boxing icon confirmed the bout is pushing through, but offered only a glimpse into his buildup.

“I will start training,” Pacquiao said, keeping details of his camp, conditioning, and sparring plans under wraps.

The rematch, more than a decade after their 2015 showdown, is expected to draw global attention as Pacquiao seeks redemption after losing by unanimous decision in their first meeting, widely billed as the “Fight of the Century.”

With training set to begin, Pacquiao now enters a crucial phase in his preparation for Mayweather, a rival who handed him one of the most significant defeats of his career. Pacquiao remained non-committal about his scheduled exhibition against Ruslan Provodnikov on April 18 in Las Vegas, raising doubts about whether the bout will serve as a prelude to the Mayweather clash.

“I’m not sure yet,” he said when pressed for updates, offering no further explanation. The uncertainty leaves Pacquiao’s

immediate fight calendar unclear as he shifts focus toward his September target.

The Filipino legend returned to professional boxing in July 2025 and proved he can still compete at a high level, battling WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios to a majority draw.

That performance strengthened belief among fans and analysts that Pacquiao remains a legitimate threat heading into the rematch, despite being in the later stages of his career.

The world 8-division champion said his attention is currently on business, brushing aside speculation about a political comeback.

“Focused ako sa business, wala pa,” Pacquiao said when asked about plans for the 2028 elections.

A former Sarangani congressman and senator, Pacquiao last ran for public office in 2025, but failed to secure a Senate seat.

Quiban clings to 2-shot lead as 4-way duel brews

CABANATUAN City—Justin

Quiban endured a rollercoaster round under punishing heat and relentless pressure from a surging pack, rescuing a 70 with a clutch birdie on the 17th to cling to a two-shot lead over Korean Taewon Ha after Thursday’s gripping third round of the ICTSI Lakewood Championship.

What once loomed as a runaway victory suddenly turned into a high-stakes duel – and then a four-man dogfight.

Quiban, who dazzled with a record 62 on Tuesday to build a five-shot cushion at 14-under after 36 holes, found himself scrambling to stay in control as his game wavered and challengers came charging from all sides on Moving Day.

Ha, who started six strokes back, fired a bogey-free 66 highlighted by late birdies, while de-

fending champion Sean Ramos unleashed a power-packed 64 capped by eagles on both backnine par-5s. Keanu Jahns also kept his title hopes alive with a 66, completing a dramatic reshuffle of the leaderboard.

As Ryan Monsalve faltered with a 73, the spotlight shifted to Ha, Ramos and Jahns, transforming what had seemed like a one-man showcase into a tightly packed battle heading into the final round.

Quiban still led at 16-under 200, but Ha closed in at 202, while Ramos and Jahns lurked at 204 – just four shots separating the top four contenders, guaranteeing a tense, unpredictable finish in the P3 million championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. offering a top purse of P532,200.

“I was a little off – I didn’t drive

CABANATUAN City—Under a blazing sun and suffocating pressure, Florence Bisera delivered nerves of steel when it mattered most, draining a clutch fourfoot birdie putt to outlast Lois Kaye Go in a gripping three-way, four-hole playoff and seize the ICTSI Lakewood Championship crown in unforgettable fashion.

It was a battle that refused to yield – where momentum swung wildly, putts trembled on the edge, and every swing carried the weight of victory or heartbreak.

Earlier, Sarah Ababa ignited the drama in regulation with a fearless assault on the water-guarded 18th, going for the green in two and converting a stunning birdie for a 68. Go shot a 69, while Bisera, seemingly in control for much of the day, faltered late with a 72. The trio finished deadlocked at 210, setting the stage for a sudden-death showdown.

The tension only escalated from there.

All three birdied the par-4 10th in the opening playoff hole, refusing to blink. But on their return, Ababa’s challenge unraveled with a costly bogey, leaving Bisera and Go locked in a duel defined by precision and poise. Matching pars again, they pressed on to a third trip down the same hole. Pars followed. Still no separation. Still no sur-

it out as well as I wanted, and my wedge game wasn’t as sharp,” said Quiban, admitting he also struggled with distance control, which limited his birdie opportunities.

“I made quite a lot of mistakes out there, but it turned out okay,” added Quiban, who headed straight to the to fine-tune his swing.

Unfazed by the looming pressure from a surging field, he remained composed, emphasizing the importance of staying locked in on the task ahead.

He also welcomed the prospect of a final-round showdown with Ha and Jahns – especially the latter.

“Keanu is a buddy of mine, and it’s nice to see him up here with me. We’re just going to battle it out tomorrow, and it’s going to be fun,” he said.

blasts out

render. Back again on No. 10, with the sun beating down and nerves stretched to their limits, Bisera rose to the moment. From 120 yards, she unleashed a near-flawless

wedge – crisp, controlled and fearless – watching the ball land softly and roll to within four feet of the cup. Go, who had earlier kept her hopes alive with a clutch long birdie conversion, left her approach about 24 feet to the right of the pin. But when her birdie attempt slid past the hole and she settled for par, the door finally opened. All eyes shifted to Bisera.

Blocking out the heat, the pressure and the magnitude of the moment, she stood over her putt with quiet resolve. One smooth stroke later, the ball dropped. Game over.

Bisera thrust her fist into the air, facelifted toward the sky, eyes gleaming in the harsh afternoon light – a champion forged not just by skill, but by grit, composure and unshakeable belief.

“Sobrang saya kasi naipanalo ko ang first tournament sa LPGT. It’s a big confidence boost as I focus on my upcoming campaign in China,” said Bisera, who entered the final round with a three-shot lead over Go but struggled with her putting, settling for a 72 in regulation.

“ Sa playoff, gumanda ang putting ko. Ang dami kong iniisip sa regulation – what if hindi ko ito maipanalo?” added Bisera, who pocketed P146,400 for her sixth career victory, including a breakthrough in Thailand last year

WHAT’S INSIDE?

ATI secures PSE nod for delisting

Nickel firms warn of possible shutdown

Foxmont investing P4b in PH startups

BCDA studies pharma zones in Tarlac, Pampanga

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Pharma Procure-

ment Inc. and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority signed a memorandum of understanding on March 25, 2026 to conduct a collaborative study on developing specialized pharmaceutical economic zones.

The partnership explores business opportunities within the Clark Civil Aviation Complex in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac to create a dedicated ecosystem for drug production, research and distribution.

It aims to reduce the Philippines’ heavy reliance on imported medicines by establishing a seamless “factory-to-port” environment. The study will focus on site identification for advanced manufacturing plants and research laboratories while prioritizing logistical integration through Clark International Airport for the temperature-controlled transit of medical products.

“This signing bridges the gap between logistics and manufacturing. By studying the feasibility of specialized pharma-ecozones, we are not just building warehouses; we are creating a high-tech environment where research, production, and global distribution can thrive in one place,” said PPPI president and chief executive Maria Blanca Kim Lokin.

BSP holds interest rates steady on inflation fears

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas kept its benchmark interest rates steady during an off-cycle meeting on Thursday, signaling a potential shift toward tightening as rising global crude prices threaten to spike inflation.

The BSP’s Monetary Board maintained the policy rate at 4.25 percent, citing a need for stability amid “fast-changing developments and uncertain economic conditions.”

The decision comes as the conflict in the Middle East drives global oil and fertilizer prices higher, already resulting in increased domestic fuel costs and transport fares.

“As a data-driven monetary authority, and in light of fastchanging developments and uncertain economic conditions, the Monetary Board met today and decided to maintain the policy rate at 4.25 percent,” the BSP said in a statement.

Internal projections suggest inflation will exceed the 4.0 percent

ceiling in 2026 before returning to the target range by 2027.

The BSP projected that headline inflation could climb to 5.1 percent in 2026 before slightly easing to 3.8 percent in 2027. The latest projections are higher than the previous estimates of 3.6 percent in 2026 and 3.2 percent in 2027.

BSP Deputy Governor Zeno Abenoja said the upward revision was led by higher oil price assumptions.

“We have updated the oil prices that are underlying the projections. Previously, we were looking at around $64 to 65 per barrel. Now, we have updated them. Based on the futures prices, the average international oil prices could hover at around $85 on average for this year. And next year, about $76 per barrel,” said Abenoja.

PH, Australia launch multimillion-dollar program to boost jobs

THE Philippines and Australia have launched a multimillion-dollar initiative to streamline the country’s business environment and accelerate formal job creation, the Department of Finance (DOF) announced Thursday. The Promoting Growth, Resilience, Economic Stability and Sustainability in the Philippines (PROGRESS) program is supported by an Australian grant of up to Au%45 million. The flagship initiative aims to address income inequality, slow job growth and

systemic barriers affecting marginalized groups while shielding the economy from climate-related shocks.

Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go and Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown signed the subsidiary arrangement for the program, which will be supervised by the DOF and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

“When businesses grow, jobs are created. When systems improve, services become faster, more accessible.

When growth reaches more people, lives and communities are transformed,” the DOF said in a statement.

The program focuses on private sector expansion by improving the ease of doing business and incentivizing investments from small and medium-sized enterprises. Specific priority areas include clean energy, climate mitigation and the management of critical mineral resources.

An implementing managing contractor will handle the technical

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commis-

sion (ERC) suspended Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) operations across the country’s three power grids on Thursday to mitigate energy supply risks and price volatility stemming from conflict in the Middle East. The suspension follows Executive Order No. 110, Series of 2026, which declared a state of national energy emergency because of global fuel supply disruptions and rising oil prices. The ERC said it received a Depart-

ment of Energy (DOE) recommendation on March 25 to halt trading across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao effective March 26.

Regulators observed that prices at the WESM were expected to rise by up to P4 per kilowatthour due to regional tensions. The ERC determined immediate action was required to ensure the adequacy and reliability of the power supply.

“In times of global energy disruption, our priority is clear: to protect Filipino consumers while ensuring that our power supply remains stable and reliable,” ERC chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan said.

aspects of the program, including capacity building and the management of a strategic activities fund for research and innovation. It also features a climate finance component designed to mobilize capital for green investments.

As the lead agency, the DOF will coordinate with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, Department of Energy, Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Economy, Planning and Development.

A PROLONGED conflict in the Middle East could reduce economic growth in developing Asia and the Pacific by up to 1.3 percentage points over 2026-2027 if energy market disruptions persist for more than a year, according to new research from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The Manila-based lender warned in a Tuesday brief that a worst-case scenario involving severe tensions would also drive inflation up by 3.2 percentage points across the region. The impact is primarily led by higher energy prices, supply chain disruptions and tighter financial conditions for a region that remains the world’s largest energy-importing hub.

The regional macroeconomic outlook for 2026 is now centered on geopolitical tensions as a primary driver. While direct trade exposure to Iran and other Middle Eastern nations is limited, the ADB noted that Asian economies are highly vulnerable to spillovers in global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) markets.

“Asia’s exposure to the conflict is further underscored by import source concentration,” the report said, noting that about 20 percent of global oil and LNG trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Under the ADB baseline scenario, where the conflict lasts only 1 to 2 months, Brent crude is projected to average $72 per barrel in 2026. However, under “Scenario 3,” which assumes severe tensions lasting 1 year, oil prices could spike to over $155 in the second quarter of 2026 before slowly declining.

PSEi slides below 6,000 as tensions weigh on sentiment

By Jenniffer B. Austria

P HILIPPINE shares fell below the 6,000 level Thursday as investors turned cautious over conflicting statements regarding a reported ceasefire in the Middle East.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index declined 59.97 points, or nearly 1 percent, to 5,984.20, while the wider All Shares index dropped 22.05 points, or 0.66 percent, to 3,334.11.

The peso closed at a new low against the U.S. dollar Thursday at 60.23 from 60.10 on Wednesday.

Analysts said trading remains volatile as investors continue to be wary about the impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East on the domestic and global economies.

“The local market pulled back as investors took profits following two straight days of rallying. This comes as Iran stated that it has no intention of holding talks with the U.S., blurring the possibility of the two reaching a resolution,” Philstocks Financial Inc. said.

Value turnover was thin at P4.23 billion. Decliners beat gainers 100 to 78, while 71 stocks were unchanged. Foreign investors turned net sellers again with outflows of P135.3 million.

Monde Nissin Corp. was the day’s top index gainer, rising 3.02 percent to P6.49, while DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was the day’s main index laggard, falling 4.6 percent to P17.02. Oil prices jumped and Asian equities fell Thursday as investors tracked developments in the Middle East amid hopes that US and Iranian officials will bring an end to a conflict that has ramped up fears of an unprecedented global energy crisis.

Markets have been buoyed since late Monday after Donald Trump backed down on a threat to destroy the Islamic republic’s energy infrastructure and said the two sides were in peace talks. But while crude prices are down from last week and the mood on trading floors has been better than most of March, uncertainty and the virtual closure of the Strait of Hormuz— through which around 20 percent of oil and gas passes—continue to cast a dark shadows. With

ATI secures PSE nod for delisting

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ASIAN Terminals Inc. has received approval from the Philippine Stock Exchange for its voluntary delisting, following a successful tender offer and the subsequent crossing of tendered shares conducted in partnership with the Maharlika Investment Corp.

CANCER TREATMENT

CENTER. The Board of Investments celebrates another significant milestone in Philippine healthcare as Asian Hospital and Medical Center, a BOI-registered enterprise, marks the treatment of its first 100 cancer patients using the country’s first CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system.

Attending the launch are (from left) Trade Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo; BOI Executive Director for Investments Promotion Services Evariste Cagatan; Dr. Beaver Tamesis, president and CEO of Asian Hospital and Medical Center; Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon; Dr. Enrico D. Tangco, radiation oncologist at the Asian Cancer Institute; and Dr. Corazon Ngelangel, executive director of the institute.

As a result of the tender offer process, ATI and MIC — the country’s sovereign wealth fund manager — as joint proponents to the tender offer have collectively acquired at least 95 percent of ATI’s outstanding shares, satisfying the PSE’s minimum ownership requirement for voluntary delisting.

With the increase in ownership,

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ATI’s public shareholding has fallen below the level required for listed companies. In accordance with PSE rules governing voluntary delisting, trading of ATI shares has been suspended as part of the normal process.

The notice also said that ATI’s shares will be removed from the PSE registry effective April 3, 2026, indicating the company’s official delisting date.

The completion of the tender offer and voluntary delisting process marks a milestone in ATI’s shareholder transition, as the company formally welcomes MIC as its newest strategic investor and shareholder.

This transformation comes as ATI celebrates 40 years of enabling trade and driving economic progress through its integrated ports and terminals operations.

With MIC’s participation, ATI is poised to embark on a new chapter of growth as it expands its role in facilitating efficient and sustainable trade in support of industries, communities, and the broader Philippine economy.

The company emphasized that operations across its ports and terminals remain business as usual and that it will continue to provide updates through its official disclosures.

SHELL Pilipinas Corp. reported Thursday that its core earnings rose 28 percent to P3.3 billion, while net income increased 69 percent to P2.1 billion in 2025.

The company closed 2025 with higher earnings and an improved balance sheet, reflecting disciplined execution despite a volatile operating environment.

“2025 marked a year of steady progress for Shell Pilipinas, with stronger results delivered quarter after quarter,” said Lorelie Quiambao Osial, president and CEO in a statement.

“The strategic priorities we sharpened — integrated channel growth, disciplined working capital and tighter cost control — are translating into more consistent performance across our portfolio,” Osial said.

Shell Pilipinas ended the year with free cash flow of P2.1 billion, reversing a P1.6 billion deficit in the previous year. Gearing improved to 52 percent from 56 percent in 2024, supported by lower net debt.

The fuels business delivered 2 percent volume growth for the year, supported by stronger contributions from commercial segments and a more efficient supply chain. This helped the company defend its position as the country’s second-largest downstream player.

“We remain focused on the fundamentals that matter most — safety, disciplined operations, business continuity and support for our customers and partners through uncertainty,” Osial said. Mobility volumes were broadly flat, recovering from earlier declines. Fleet solutions remained a key growth engine, posting 11 percent volume growth.

Nonfuel retail returned to double-digit growth at 11 percent, driven by the expansion of lubricants and convenience retail businesses. Aviation volumes rose 11 percent, delivering the strongest results in five years.

In commercial fuels, volumes grew 3 percent behind stronger performance in the mining and wholesale segments. Shell Pilipinas said nonfuel businesses, including lubricants and bitumen, delivered 4 percent volume growth.

Lubricants maintained 4 percent growth through sharper distribution and an integrated channel approach, supported by strong positions in motorcycle oils and e-commerce.

With stronger earnings and positive free cash flow, Shell Pilipinas announced the resumption of dividend distributions. The company said the move reflects progress in restoring financial resilience while maintaining prudence in capital allocation.

Nickel industry faces shutdowns if crisis worsens

By Othel V. Campos

PHILIPPINE nickel producers warned of possible shutdowns if fuel supply disruptions worsen, as the industry is likely to fall below government priority sectors during a prolonged crisis.

In a briefing Thursday, the Philippine Nickel Industry Association said fuel would be diverted first to essential services such as food and power in the event of severe shortages driven by global conflict, leaving mining operations vulnerable to stoppages.

“Is mining on the top of that list? I personally don’t think so. Naturally, a shutdown would have to occur,” said PNIA board director and DMCI Mining Corp. president and chief operating officer Tulsi Das Reyes, noting that the sector grapples with rising fuel costs and uncertainty over supply availability amid geopolitical tensions, including the Iran conflict.

Despite a strong 2025 performance, when nickel exports reached a record 63 million tons, miners said the nearterm outlook is increasingly fragile.

Fuel inventories across companies typically cover only 15 to 30 days of operations, exposing the industry to disruptions beyond that window.

“We don’t know where the next 60 to 90 days of operations may come

from,” Reyes said, adding that companies are now bracing for potential supply gaps.

PNIA director and Nickel Asia Corp. president and chief executive Martin Antonio Zamora said higher fuel prices — from about P70 to P115 per liter — have already increased costs by around $3 per wet metric ton. While still manageable, further increases could push some operations into unprofitability.

“If it doubles, then that’s already $6 or more. I’m not sure some mines will still be profitable at that point,” he said.

Zamora stressed that supply availability remains the bigger concern, noting that the industry requires roughly 10 million liters of fuel monthly to sustain export volumes.

Mining firms are exploring stopgap measures such as expanding fuel storage, securing alternative suppliers and coordinating with nearby operations, but these may offer only limited relief if disruptions persist.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CITICORE Energy REIT Corp. said Thursday net income reached P1.43 billion in 2025, a flat growth from P1.4 billion in the same period the previous year.

Revenues remained steady at P1.88 billion last year from P1.9 billion in 2024, sustaining stable income from leases to operating solar power plants and land parcels with solar farms for commissioning.

“Our 2025 performance reflects the strength and resilience of CREIT’s business model, anchored on stability, consistency and long-term value creation. As a REIT backed by essential infrastructure to the country’s energy targets, we are inherently positioned to navigate volatility better than tra-

regional

E-Sys.

FAST Logistics, DTI to build Aritao

TO SUPPORT smallholder farmers, FAST Logistics Group and the government will establish an e-fulfillment and logistics facility in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya, enabling farmers to meet institutional requirements and reduce reliance on intermediaries.

The initiative comes amid a state of national energy emergency, which has highlighted the need to consolidate farm output and maximize backhaul logistics—using delivery trucks’ return trips to carry cargo—to improve food security and reduce fuel consumption.

hub to cut ‘empty miles’

FAST will leverage its nationwide network— including more than 3,100 trucks and over 2 million square meters of warehouse space—to move produce efficiently from Nueva Vizcaya to Metro Manila by utilizing return trips.

Manila Standard TODAY

Agro-DigitalPH and Mayani will assist farmers in reaching markets such as supermarkets, hotels and restaurants. Nueva Vizcaya produces around 120,000 metric tons of vegetables annually and supplies much of Luzon year-round.

ditional REITs, enabling us to deliver reliable and sustainable returns to our investors,” said CREIT president and chief executive Oliver Tan.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization stood at P1.85 billion from P1.8 billion yearon-year. Guaranteed base lease revenue totaled P1.67 billion, while the anticipated year-end component of income, variable lease revenue, amounted to P50.29 million for the year.

CREIT recognized variable rental income equivalent to 50 percent of the incremental gross revenue earned by the lessees from any excess in the agreed base revenue for the period.

CREIT has a gross leasable area of 7.1 million square meters of land used for operating and under-construction

solar assets as part of the sponsor’s first gigawatt in its “5GW in 5 years” goal.

CREIT also maintained its 100 percent year-round occupancy rate across its assets and has a weighted average lease expiry of 19.44 years, assuring its shareholders stable operations and a sustainable income. The company’s performance in 2025 resulted in an annual dividend of P0.203 per share, or a 6.3 percent dividend yield based on the closing price of P3.22 per share as of March 24, 2026.

For the fourth straight year, CREIT paid out 106 percent of the company’s distributable income, derived from the guaranteed and variable leases, well above the 90 percent required under the REIT Law.

The project brings together FAST, the Department of Trade and Industry Supply Chain and Logistics Group, DTI Nueva Vizcaya, the Aritao local government, and agri-tech firms Agro-DigitalPH and Mayani. It aims to link farmers directly with buyers and optimize logistics efficiency.

FAST Logistics chief executive Manuel L. Onrejas Jr. said expanding backhaul capacity would cut “empty miles” and help ease rising food prices.

“In the face of rising fuel prices and food insecurity, strengthening backhaul logistics is an immediate and practical solution. Every empty return trip is a missed opportunity to move essential goods and ease cost pressures on consumers,” he said.

FAST estimates that around 70 percent of trucks on Philippine roads return empty after deliveries, contributing to higher transport costs, supply chain gaps and higher food prices, which can reach up to three times the farmgate price in major urban centers due to multiple handling points, wastage and underutilized transport capacity.

The Aritao facility will serve as a logistics hub, helping small farmers access institutional buyers while reducing dependence on middlemen.

Aritao’s location along key routes linking Cagayan Valley to Metro Manila makes it an ideal logistics center. Onrejas stressed the importance of publicprivate collaboration in managing fuel costs and stabilizing food supply chains. Othel V. Campos

ALLIEDCAREEXPERTS(ACE)MEDICALCENTER–BUTUAN,INC.

ALLIEDCAREEXPERTS(ACE)MEDICALCENTER–BUTUAN,INC.

Ochoas.CornerVillanuevaExt.ButuanCity (085)815-4874/09157355076 acemcbutuan@gmail.com www.acebutuan.com.ph

Ochoas.CornerVillanuevaExt.ButuanCity (085)815-4874/09157355076 acemcbutuan@gmail.com www.acebutuan.com.ph

NOTICE (ReY2026AnnualStockholders’Meeting)

NOTICE (ReY2026AnnualStockholders’Meeting)

Dear Stockholders:

ALLIEDCAREEXPERTS(ACE)MEDICALCENTER–BUTUAN,INC. Ochoas.CornerVillanuevaExt.ButuanCity (085)815-4874/09157355076 acemcbutuan@gmail.com / www.acebutuan.com.ph NOTICE (ReY2026AnnualStockholders’Meeting)

NOTICE (Re Y2026 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting)

DearStockholders: PleasebeadvisedthattheannualstockholdersmeetingofAlliedCareExperts(ACE)MedicalCenterButuan,Inc.(“Corporation”)hasbeensettoJune12,2026[insteadof3rd SaturdayofApril],at10:00 a.m.,viazoomwebinar.Theagendawillbesentinanothernoticetobesentinaccordancewiththe BylawsoftheCorporation. InconnectionwiththeelectionofthemembersoftheBoardofDirectorsofCorporationtobe conductedintheannualmeeting,kindlysubmityournominationsonorbeforeApril11,2026,via emailat acebutuanasm@gmail.com ,ortotheOfficeoftheCorporateSecretary,atAlliedCare Experts(ACE)MedicalCenter-Butuan,Inc.,8th FloorExecutiveOffice,ButuanCity.Thenomination formmaybedownloadedfromtheCorporation’swebsiteat https://acemcbutuan.com thecurriculumvitaeofthenominees. Foranyclarification,youmaycontacttheOfficeoftheCorporateSecretaryat0985-535-7801. Verytrulyyours, DR.MAEOCO-MATEOS CorporateSecretary

DearStockholders: PleasebeadvisedthattheannualstockholdersmeetingofAlliedCareExperts(ACE)MedicalCenterButuan,Inc.(“Corporation”)hasbeensettoJune12,2026[insteadof3rd SaturdayofApril],at10:00 a.m.,viazoomwebinar.Theagendawillbesentinanothernoticetobesentinaccordancewiththe BylawsoftheCorporation.

InconnectionwiththeelectionofthemembersoftheBoardofDirectorsofCorporationtobe conductedintheannualmeeting,kindlysubmityournominationsonorbeforeApril11,2026,via emailat acebutuanasm@gmail.com ,ortotheOfficeoftheCorporateSecretary,atAlliedCare Experts(ACE)MedicalCenter-Butuan,Inc.,8th FloorExecutiveOffice,ButuanCity.Thenomination formmaybedownloadedfromtheCorporation’s websiteat https://acemcbutuan.com thecurriculumvitaeofthenominees. Foranyclarification,youmaycontacttheOfficeoftheCorporateSecretaryat0985-535-7801.

Please be advised that the annual stockholders meeting of Allied Care Experts(ACE) Medical Center-Butuan, Inc. (“Corporation”) has been set to June 12, 2026 [instead of 3rd Saturday of April], at 10:00 a.m., via zoom webinar. The agenda will be sent in another notice to be sent in accordance with the Bylaws of the Corporation. In connection with the election of the members of the Board of Directors of Corporation to be conducted in the annual meeting, kindly submit your nominations on or before April 11, 2026, via email at acebutuanasm@gmail. com , or to the Office of the Corporate Secretary, at Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center-Butuan, Inc., 8th Floor Executive Office, Butuan City. The nomination form may be downloaded from the Corporation’s website at https:// acemcbutuan.com . Please attach the curriculum vitae of the nominees. For any clarification, you may contact the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 0985-535-7801.

DearStockholders: PleasebeadvisedthattheannualstockholdersmeetingofAlliedCareExperts(ACE)MedicalCenterButuan,Inc.(“Corporation”)hasbeensettoJune12,2026[insteadof3rd SaturdayofApril],at10:00 a.m.,viazoomwebinar.Theagendawillbesentinanothernoticetobesentinaccordancewiththe BylawsoftheCorporation. InconnectionwiththeelectionofthemembersoftheBoardofDirectorsofCorporationtobe conductedintheannualmeeting,kindlysubmityournominationsonorbeforeApril11,2026,via emailat acebutuanasm@gmail.com ,ortotheOfficeoftheCorporateSecretary,atAlliedCare Experts(ACE)MedicalCenter-Butuan,Inc.,8th FloorExecutiveOffice,ButuanCity.Thenomination formmaybedownloadedfromtheCorporation’s websiteat https://acemcbutuan.com .Pleaseattach thecurriculumvitaeofthenominees. Foranyclarification,youmaycontacttheOfficeoftheCorporateSecretaryat0985-535-7801.

Verytrulyyours,

DR.MAEOCO-MATEOS

DR.MAEOCO-MATEOS CorporateSecretary

Foxmont investing P4b in PH

INANCE Secretary Frederick Go on Thursday welcomed a plan by Foxmont Capital Partners to invest up to P4 billion in the Philippine startup ecosystem, calling the move a sign of strong investor confidence in the country’s innovation-driven growth.

The investment is expected to accelerate local innovation and expand access to capital while generating more jobs for Filipinos. The venture capital firm’s planned expansion follows a year where the Philippine startup ecosystem recorded $1.5 billion in private capital, representing a 34-percent increase from the previous record of $1.12 billion.

GT Capital’s 2025 income climbed 17% to P33.68b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

GT CAPITAL Holdings Inc. reported a 17-percent increase in consolidated net income to P33.68 billion in 2025 as its banking and automotive units reached record earnings, the Ty family-led conglomerate said Thursday. Core net income increased 8 percent to P30.47 billion, led by Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. and Toyota Motor Philippines, which posted record profits of P49.7 billion and P19 billion, respectively. Associate firm Metro Pacific Investments Corp. also delivered a record core net income of P27.1 billion.0 Following the results, the board approved total cash dividends of P14.16 per share for 2025. This includes a regular dividend of P6 and a special dividend of P8.16. The first tranche of P7.08 per share is scheduled for payment on April 22, 2026, to shareholders on record as of April 8. GT Capital president Carmelo Maria Luza Bautista said the performance reflected the resilience of the group’s diversified portfolio despite global uncertainties.

“As we move forward, GT Capital will continue to take a measured and vigilant stance. At the same time, we recognize emerging opportunities across our sectors and are wellpositioned to capture areas of growth amid volatility,” Bautista said.

Metrobank, the largest contributor to the group, saw its record P49.7billion income supported by modest asset expansion, resilient margins, and healthy trading income. Costs remained contained during the year.

Automotive unit Toyota Motor Philippines saw its net income climb 18.9 percent as sales grew 5.2 percent to a record 229,447 units. Property arm Federal Land Inc reported a net income of P522.3 million after completing five residential towers across Metro Manila.

“Foxmont’s continued engagement with Philippine startups reflects strong confidence in the country’s long-term fundamentals and policies. Their investment will help our startups scale, strengthen Filipino talent, foster innovation and build agile enterprises that deliver more accessible products and services to Filipinos,” Go said. During a meeting held last

week, Foxmont managing partner Franco Varona and Go discussed strategies to increase foreign direct investment into the country.

Foxmont focuses on high-growth, technology-enabled startups and aims to back companies that address market needs and drive inclusive growth.

“Foxmont’s planned investments into the Philippines reflect our continued conviction in Philippine companies that can drive productivity, scale efficiently and compete in higher-value sectors. We see strong opportunities to work alongside partners across government and the broader

ecosystem to deepen private capital’s impact on the economy,” Varona said.

The firm has deployed more than P1 billion since 2018 into a portfolio covering fintech, e-commerce and digital platforms. It is currently raising its third fund.

According to the Foxmont 2026 Philippine Private Capital Report, private capital in the country accounts for about 0.3 percent of annual gross domestic product.

The Department of Finance reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these investment plans to further integrate the Philippines into the global economy.

Meralco, DOE urge energy efficiency

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) and the Department of Energy are promoting demand-side measures to manage electricity bills and support grid stability as the dry season starts amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The utility and the energy department renewed a call for commercial and industrial establishments to adopt energy efficiency practices and join the Interruptible Load Program. The ILP is a demand-side management initiative where large-load customers use their own generators or scale back operations instead of drawing power from the grid to prevent household power interruptions.

Officials highlighted the value of these measures during a “Powering Through Uncertainty” webinar for enterprise customers. While supply remains sufficient, the government and Meralco have intensified consumer education on energy-efficient technologies and the proper use of cooling appliances.

“We can see that there are no expected alert levels in the Luzon grid considering that all of the capacities will be available as expected and new power project investments will come online,” DOE Power Planning and Development Division officer-incharge Noriel Christopher Reyes said. While the grid is currently stable, officials said global tensions are putting upward pressure on fuel prices.

“How we consume energy is what we can control. Supply is outside of us,” DOE Energy Utilization Management Bureau director Patrick Aquino said.

“Think of energy efficiency as an opportunity, not as an obligation,” he said.

Meralco Generation and Transmission Economics lead specialist Ma. Leticia Sapina said the company is encouraging more enrollments to improve the effectiveness of the ILP.

Monde Nissin’s 2025 core income slipped to P9.71b despite revenue growth

FOOD manufacturer Monde Nissin Corp. said Thursday its 2025 core net income dipped to P9.71 billion from P9.79 billion a year earlier, even as the company saw a rise in overall revenues.

Full-year sales increased 4 percent to P86.5 billion from P83.1 billion in 2024 on stronger performance in the branded food and beverage segment and the meat alternative business.

Net income in the fourth quarter rose 8.1 percent to P2.5 billion led by a modest reversal of impairment within the meat alternative division.

Sales in the final three months of the year grew 5.7 percent to P23.22 billion.

The Asia Pacific branded food and beverage business recorded a 4.7-percent revenue increase to P72.8 billion. In the fourth quarter, net sales for this segment rose 5.8 percent, which the company attributed largely to volume growth in biscuits and

DigiPlus taps Pacquiao for digital

games

ONLINE gaming firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has teamed up with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for a wide-ranging deal that includes co-branded digital games and brand ambassadorships. The partnership aims to expand the footprint of DigiPlus in the digital entertainment sector by introducing celebrity-driven content. The deal also includes integration with MannyPay, which is the payment platform of Pacquiao. DigiPlus chairman Eusebio Tanco said the audience in the Philippines is

with its

with

to provide

and

Under the

DigiPlus will launch nine Pacquiao-themed games across its platforms. These include BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone. Pacquiao will also serve as the brand ambassador for ArenaPlus and GameZone. In this role, he will represent the platforms in various promotional campaigns and events. DigiPlus noted that the partnership could eventually extend to supporting future boxing activities of the former world champion. Jenniffer B. Austria Toyota Motor PH

other product categories.

Domestic operations saw a 5.4-percent increase in 2025 and a 5.7-percent rise in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, the meat alternative segment maintained steady full-year revenue at P13.6 billion, but it posted a 5.3 percent increase in the fourth quarter.

Monde Nissin chief executive Henry Soesanto said he expects the domestic business to record mid to high-single-digit revenue growth for the first quarter of 2026.

“Amid ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical volatility, we remain agile, proactively managing potential impacts on the business,” Soesanto said.

Following the improved financial results, the Monde Nissin’s board approved a cash dividend of P0.24 per share. Shareholders of record as of April 24 are scheduled to receive the payment on May 21.

Jenniffer B. Austria

IN BRIEF

THE Department of Energy has or-

dered the full dispatch of indigenous energy sources and coal-fired power plants on Wednesday to cushion an expected surge in electricity prices following a declaration of a national energy emergency.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin signed the advisory on March 25 after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order 110. The directive aims to mitigate a projected P2 per kilowatt-hour increase in Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) prices triggered by global fuel volatility and the Middle East crisis.

Initial simulations by the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines indicate average WESM prices could exceed P9 per kilowatt-hour, nearly double the precrisis average of P5 or less.

“As a net importer of oil, coal and liquefied natural gas, we are acting with heightened discipline to preserve power system reliability in the face of escalating global fuel market volatility,” Garin said. “This is a decisive intervention to

protect the grid, manage fuel use responsibly and ensure that essential electricity services remain uninterrupted,” she said.

The order covers generation companies, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines, the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines, distribution utilities and electric cooperatives. The Department of Energy called for special operating guidelines to support the full utilization of renewable energy and coal while maintaining system security.

Generation companies must now monitor fuel inventories to ensure a 15-day supply and report potential risks to the government immediately. The agency also instructed firms to explore fuel alternatives, including higher biodiesel blends for oil-based plants and coal blending or co-firing with biomass.

For off-grid areas, the Department of Energy urged utilities to implement demand-side management measures to protect isolated systems from market disruptions. Alena Mae S. Flores

PPA rolls out ORAS to end port reservation woes

THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has rolled out the Online Reservation Assistance System (ORAS), a digital solution designed to eliminate perennial ticketing bottlenecks and ensure a seamless travel experience at the nation’s ports.

Developed as a direct response to passenger feedback, ORAS aims to streamline the reservation process and prevent the heavy congestion typically seen during peak travel seasons. By allowing travelers to secure their trips before arriving at the terminal, the PPA expects to significantly speed up port operations. The system is built for simplicity, requiring only three steps: Scan.

Choose. Reserve.

Through this, passengers can now scan a QR code even if they are not yet at the port; through the website, passengers can now choose a trip time because the ship schedule will also be visible here; just fill up the required details and submit a selfie or ID as proof of identity and wait for the ORAS PASS or the QR code to be presented at the port for a continuous

and guaranteed ticket for the trip.

Assistant General Manager for Operations Mark Palomar said that with ORAS, passengers have a guaranteed slot on the trip and no longer have to queue and wait for a long time just to join the trip.

“Those who signed up with the system are guaranteed to ride in that particular time slot. You will be given a QR code or you can get it from the help desk that we will set up and the validity of that QR code is up to 3 hours prior to the departure,” according to Palomar.

With ORAS, passengers are in control of their trip as they can now access the online reservation system at their homes.

“This is the solution which the PPA has come up with. We’re not interfering with the shipping lines. They can sell their tickets as we stressed earlier. We are not selling ticket,” Palomar said. We have talked to MARINA and we will be implementing this system into ports to pilot test it so all vessels from to and from Lucena and to and from Batangas,” he said. PPA also continues to coordinate with shipping lines and partner maritime agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and MARINA. Currently, ORAS is available at the Port of Lucena as part of the pilot testing of the new digital system. ORAS is also expected to be used at all ports under the PPA.

PPA said it continues to intensify its digitalization efforts for more efficient, organized and reliable public services.

Data from PPA showed that passenger traffic rose 4.59 percent last year to 82.42 million from 78.80 million passengers in 2024.

Darwin G. Amojelar

DOTr supports expanding ‘Libreng Sakay’ program to LGUs

TRANSPORTATION Secretary Giovanni Lopez is urging lawmakers to decentralize and expand the Service Contracting Program (SCP), popularly known as “Libreng Sakay,” to local government units (LGUs) to shield more drivers and commuters from soaring fuel prices.

The proposal follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to employ a “whole-ofgovernment” approach in mitigating the economic fallout of the ongoing conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

“If we have Service Contracting or Libreng Sakay, mami-mitigate po natin kasi we are also addressing the commuters. In the same way, we are sustaining “I hope we can expand Service Contracting to LGUs. Not only nationally, but also LGUs. If we can empower them, they can have their own Service Contracting or Free Ride,” the transport chief added.

Aside from SCP, Secretary Lopez said that the DOTr is also implementing other strategies to

SMC’s ‘Better Rivers PH’ clears nine million tons of waste

SAN Miguel Corporation (SMC) said that its flagship environmental initiative, Better Rivers PH, has breached the nine-million metric ton mark in total silt and garbage removed from the country’s major waterways as of March 22.

A significant portion of the recent progress centers on the Alabang River, where SMC has cleared a critical stretch bounded by residential areas and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). According to the company’s latest monitoring report, 62,363 metric tons (MT) of waste have been extracted from the river’s mouth at Laguna de Bay through to the PNR Railway Bridge. With this development, taken together with other simultaneous river cleanups that SMC is currently undertaking in six other areas north and south of Metro Manila, the company’s Better Rivers PH program has breached 9 million tons of silt and garbage removed from at least 10 major river systems, since 2020. It can be recalled that SMC began its clearing operations of Alabang River upon the request of the Muntinlupa City local government unit (LGU) and in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), following a flooding incident at the Alabang Viaduct in July 2025.

Now, improved river flow has already been observed as rehabilitation of this critical waterway progresses, well ahead of the rainy season.

In addition to dredging, SMC is also undertaking river widening works, to improve the Alabang river’s carrying capacity and boost flood mitigation. These efforts complement local government-led efforts to relocate informal settler families (ISFs)

situated along the riverbanks, and the removal of sheet piles that have encroached into the river, which have restricted water flow and increased flood risk.

“Through these ongoing cleanup and rehabilitation efforts, SMC reaffirms its long-term commitment to flood mitigation and environmental rehabilitation under the Better Rivers PH program, working closely with local government units to protect communities and promote cleaner, safer, and more resilient waterways,” Ramon S. Ang., SMC chairman and chief executive said.

address the impact of oil price hikes, including the Fuel Subsidy Program (FSP) for PUV drivers and operators.

The transport chief also cited the 50 percet fare discount for all passengers of MRT-3 and LRT-2, and toll discounts for Class 1, 2, and 3 PUVs. Lopez added that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has also reduced the passenger service charge and navigation fees for CAAP-operated airports, measures that directly benefit both the airlines and the passengers.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), meanwhile, is implementing “Piso Fees” or the reduction of the roll-on/roll-off or RORO terminal fee from the previous P258 and P516 charges to just one peso only, benefitting Class 3 and 4 vehicles, respectively, carrying agricultural products.

AirAsia PH issues scam alert over fake customer service channels

AIRASIA Philippines is urging the public to remain vigilant against a rising number of sophisticated scams involving fraudulent customer service contacts circulating on social media and messaging platforms.

The alert comes as scammers increasingly target Filipino travelers by creating fake pages or impersonating airline representatives. These bad actors often offer assistance with flight bookings, refunds, and rebookings, eventually tricking victims into sharing personal information or making payments through unofficial channels.

“AirAsia strongly advises the public to avoid contacting customer service numbers found on unverified sources, to be cautious of any links received via WhatsApp or other messaging platforms and to refrain from sharing personal information, booking references or payment details with parties whose identity cannot be confirmed,” the budget airline said.

“AirAsia strongly advises guests to transact only through official AirAsia platforms and verified channels to avoid becoming victims of online fraud,” it added. With the growing number of Filipinos booking travel online, scammers are increasingly targeting passengers through fake social media pages, impersonation accounts, and messaging apps such as Facebook Messenger, Viber, Telegram, and WhatsApp.

Travelers are encouraged to remain cautious and report suspicious activities immediately.

2GO, Mindanao leaders team up to expedite southern Philippines’ logistics

2GO has partnered with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) to accelerate economic growth through enhanced supply chain integration across Southern Mindanao.

During a business forum titled “Advancing Mindanao’s Inclusive Growth,” industry leaders from agribusiness, manufacturing, and government gathered to address logistical bottlenecks and explore opportunities for regional expansion.

The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between Mindanao-based producers and national markets. Sharon MusngiNgo, Business Unit head of 2GO Sea Solutions, emphasized that efficient logistics is the backbone of industrial growth.

“By strengthening supply chain connectivity and working closely with partners in government and the business community, we aim to support enterprises in Davao and across Mindanao as they expand their reach across the Phil-

ippines and beyond.”

2GO continues to strengthen its engagement with partners in the region as it recognizes Mindanao as a key driver of future economic growth in the Philippines. By working alongside MinDA and DCCCII, the company aims to contribute to improving logistics connectivity, enabling businesses to access broader markets, and supporting the region’s continued integration into national and regional supply chains.

As a company with more than a century of maritime and logistics heritage, 2GO brings deep expertise in moving goods and people across the Philippine archipelago. Its operations in Mindanao are anchored in four core business units: 2GO Sea Solutions, 2GO Forwarding, 2GO Special Containers and Project Logistics, and 2GO Travel. These units support regional industries through services such

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

MARCH is Women’s Month, and to mark the occasion, the 2026 International Women’s Day Celebration and Awards will be held on Sunday, March 29, at Aberdeen Court, Great Eastern Hotel in Quezon City. Now in its third year, the awards, a brainchild of president and CEO Maria Liza F. Lorenzo, recognize the strength, leadership, and evolving roles of today’s women. The awardees, coming from different regions of the country, are being honored for their outstanding work in community building, entrepreneurship, gender equality, diversity, health and wellness, sports, and education. They are individuals admired as role models and game-changers in initiative, innovation, and empowerment.

Four reigning national beauty queens are also being recognized for their contributions to community service. They are Bb. Pilipinas-International 2025

Katrina Anne Johnson, who will receive the Lifetime Achievement in Service and Advocacy Award; Miss Philippines-Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma, to be given the Most Outstanding Woman in Leadership and Resilience Award; Miss World Philippines 2026 Asia Rose Simpson, who will receive the Lifetime Achievement in Leadership and Empowerment Award; and Miss Universe-Philippines 2025 Ahtisa Manalo, who will be presented with the Woman of Courage and Empowerment Award.

“Thank you so much to the 2026 International Women’s Day Celebration and Awards for acknowledging me with a women’s award for my contribution and effort in partnership with the Bb. Pilipinas organization. I’m really looking forward to it. Mabuhay ang Kababaihan,” said Johnson during the Bb. Pilipinas 2026 press presentation.

* *

Bb. Pilipinas 2026 official candidates announced

THIRTY-SIX official candidates of the Bb. Pilipinas 2026 search were announced during the final screening held at New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City, on Tuesday. A mix of returning veterans and newcomers make up this year’s batch, aiming to succeed reigning Bb. Pilipinas-International 2025 Katrina Anne Johnson and Bb. Pilipinas-Globe 2025 Annabelle Mae McDonnell.

The candidates are Britney Angel Rubinc, Ma. Kathrina Pauline Cudia, Nathalie Magat, Elli Rose Elola, Jarina Sandhu, Joahnna Ucol, Julie Mae Villanueva, Iris Oresca, Nicole Sobria, Christine Jorelle Usaraga, Alisa Keith Irugin, Zilanni Eve Rojas, Julianne Raine Antonio, Kristeen Mia Lucero, Tracy Mae Sunio, Shara Maxine Barber, Ivy Padilla, Angelica Arwin Evora, Anjali Pradeep Kumar, and Stacey De Ocampo.

Also part of the official list of candidates are Samantha Marie Zabarte, Sasha-Juli Belle Lacuna, Kaye Pastelero, Anne Klein Castro, Camille Bernadette Martin, Mary Adeline Ramirez, Ain Niqyla Abad, Marinella Catangay, Gwyneth Jemimah Chan, Pauline Thea Ann Ibuyan, Gwendoline Meliz Soriano, Arah Josmin Reguyal, Georgette Nicole Coronacion, Patricia Lynn Beerda, Trisha Irish Marie Rosales, and Mylene Manschus

By Nickie Wang

ADECADE has passed since Maxine Medina proudly represented the Philippines at the 2016 Miss Universe pageant, and in that time, she has built a life that is rich and unexpected.

Unlike many beauty queens chasing the next crown, Maxine chose a different path. She is now wholeheartedly embracing motherhood, pursuing an acting career, and venturing into the booming world of online selling. When it comes to returning to pageants, she’s clear that the stage is firmly behind her.

“I can be a judge and give advice, but joining another pageant, huwag na muna,” Maxine said at the launch of DM Studios, a live commerce and creator agency she runs with cousin Diane Medina and Diane’s husband, Rodjun Cruz Maxine admitted that her path to pageantry was anything but planned.

“It wasn’t my wildest dream to join pageants. But it was a big step when I joined Binibining Pilipinas and Miss Universe,” she admitted. “Even my cousins were surprised. I was really camera-shy, but I was grateful for their support.”

Modeling was never part of the plan either, but once she faced the camera, encouragement from friends and family pushed her toward pageantry.

“I was so scared when I was on stage competing in Binibining Pilipinas. But I was grateful for all the supporters,” she recalled. Maxine considers how the experience has shaped her confidence and made her believe that she can do something out of her comfort zone.

“I don’t think I was the beauty queen type. But joining pageants really gave me confidence,” she said.

Now 35, Maxine is married to Timothy Llana, and together they are raising their baby boy, Mateus Ezekiel, or Zeke, as they call him.

“I am focused on my baby. Mommy duties first,” she said. She described motherhood as

By Jasper Valdez

FILIPINO stories take the spotlight as DreamWorks unveils the trailer for Forgotten Island, an animated film packed with local folklore and a powerhouse Filipino cast. Voiced by H.E.R. (also known as Gabi Wilson) and Liza Soberano film follows best friends Jo and Raissa, who discover a portal to a mythical world filled with creatures like the manananggal,

one of the most rewarding, and challenging, chapters of her life. “I salute all the moms because motherhood is not an easy life. When I see young moms working so hard, I really admire them.”

Asked about expanding the family, she smiled: “Yes! Maybe one more baby.”

Maxine has found success in live selling, reportedly earning up to P4 million in a single session. She credits her pageant background for helping her navigate this new venture.

“Since I am in the beauty and mommy categories in live selling, it’s an advantage that I was a former beauty queen. I give tips and share advice based on whatever knowledge I have in these categories,” she said.

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Is Asia’s Songbird planning her final encore?

By Jasper Valdez

ASIA’S Songbird Regine Velasquez is preparing to take a step back from the spotlight, revealing plans for a final major concert this October before easing into retirement.

By Nickie Wang

CHASING dreams is one thing, making them real is another.

For many, the path to turning ambitions into reality is long and uncertain, but for the Kapamilya Big Four, Pinoy Big Brother became a crucial stepping stone.

Inside the PBB house, they faced challenges, discovered strengths they didn’t know they had, and showed the world who they truly are.

The Kapamilya Big Four emerged with stories that went beyond the cameras and challenges of the house. At this month’s Star Magic Spotlight event, the former housemates shared how the experience reshaped them, both personally and professionally.

Fourth-placer Miguel Vergara said PBB allowed viewers to see beyond his on-screen roles.

“I’ve been in the industry for a long time, so all they saw were my shows, my characters. But

Mayton Eugenio has found a new partner in her wellness journey. The actress and influencer has joined Dermstead Wellness Center as its first Brand Ambassador, taking on a role that lets her promote practical self-care and confidence.

The partnership was formalized during a contract signing at the center. Mayton will support campaigns and initiatives focused on skin health, wellness, and self-confidence.

“I am honored to be part of the family,” she said. “What I appreciate most is that their philosophy goes beyond aesthetics— it’s really about helping people feel good in their own skin.”

Mayton’s role aligns with her personal approach to self-care. She plans to share practical ways for people to maintain wellness without pressure.

The wellness center emphasizes science-based skincare and personalized treatments, aiming to provide a space for clients to pause and focus on themselves. Mayton’s involvement reinforces this approach, promoting consistent self-care as part of everyday life.

The collaboration also allows Mayton to expand her influence into wellness advocacy, connecting with a broader audience and promoting a practical approach to confidence and self-care.

PBB, what I want them to see is ‘Miguel’ himself,” he said, explaining how the show revealed a more personal side of him.

Third-placer Joaquin Arce spoke about the lessons he learned in the house.

“ PBB really teaches you to appreciate the things you have… that’s actually one of the valuable lessons I learned—that you should really appreciate every single little thing,” he said, describing how the experience reshaped him through introspection and endurance.

Second-placer Krystal Mejes admitted that returning home brought an overwhelming mix of emotions.

“When I got home after the big night, I called my family. After talking to them, I scrolled through my phone and couldn’t sleep… there were times I just stared blankly because I was trying to process everything, iit was so overwhelming,” she shared.

For Big Winner Lella Ford, the transition from housemate to public figure has been intense but inspiring. “My dream really is to become a skilled actress,” she said

Lella sees the PBB experience as a stepping stone to carving her own identity, separate from being Karla Estrada ’s daughter and Daniel Padilla’s sister.

The former housemates remain close, maintaining bonds forged inside the PBB house.

“Every time we see each other, it’s just so much fun because we were used to being together 24/7 inside the house, and now, this is the only time we really separate. It was so good seeing everyone,” Lella said.

In a recent interview with Billboard Philippines—which recently named her Woman of the Year—Velasquez shared that she still has projects lined up next year but is already looking ahead to a slower pace.

“I still have projects next year, and then eventually I retire. Simple lang,” she said.

The singer clarified that retirement will not mean a full stop but a shift away from pressure. “Retirement means not really stopping altogether. It means doing whatever it is that you want to do,” she said.

Velasquez admitted she once worried about what comes next but now sees it differently. “You just have to free yourself of the pressure,” she added.

Her upcoming October show, which also celebrates her 40th year in the industry, is expected to serve as her final major concert before she steps back from the stage.

TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications Inc., has launched a new feature, “For You Po,” aimed at helping subscribers find mobile promos that match their usage needs. The promo was launched with brand ambassador Kathryn Bernardo

The feature, accessible through the Smart App, recommends offers tailored for data, calls, and text, allowing users to quickly choose promos without comparing multiple options. Subscribers can also access it by dialing *123# or, for Android users, through Facebook Messenger.

Lloyd R. Manaloto , FVP and Co-OIC at Smart, said the feature leverages AI to simplify the selection process, making it faster for users to stay connected.

Smart’s network, recognized for Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency by Ookla, underpins the new service, ensuring smooth performance for streaming, gaming, and messaging.

Subscribers can start using “For You Po” today via the Smart App, *123#, or Messenger on Android devices.

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2026

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

YOUNG Miko, the Grammy-nominated artist, has released a new music video for her hit track “WASSUP” as part of a Spring 2026 campaign. The project blends music, dance, and casual fashion, highlighting the versatility of sweatshirts and joggers.

The video was directed by Bethany Vargas, with cinematography by Olivia Malone and choreography by Zoi Tatopoulos. It features 26 dancers performing a dedicated dance-break sequence, demonstrating the movement-friendly design of the collection. Styling was handled by Caroline Newell and Alastair McKimm, showcasing hoodies, joggers, shorts, and other fleece pieces.

The campaign is produced by Gap, which provided the artist with creative input and styling support to bring her music and movement to the screen. The brand’s sweat collection appears throughout the video, worn by Young Miko and the dancers in a variety of monochromatic and layered looks.

Born in Añasco, Puerto Rico, Young Miko gained prominence in 2025 with “WASSUP,” which has surpassed 137 million streams on Spotify. She has more than 20 million monthly listeners and over 21 million social media followers, and has collaborated with artists including Bad Bunny, Karol G, BIA, Central Cee, Feid, Katseye, Marshmello, Tainy, and BZRP

“Puerto Rico influences everything I do — the way I talk, express myself, dress, live, and see the world,” Young Miko said. “This music video was an amazing experience, and working with Gap felt natural because they gave me the space to express myself and my culture authentically.”

The video highlights sweatshirts and joggers as part of everyday movement and self-expression, with Young Miko and dancers wearing a range of styles.

In the Philippines, Gap is distributed by Specialty Lifestyle Concepts, Inc. Stores are at Glorietta 4, ShangriLa Plaza, SM Mall of Asia, Trinoma, Alabang Town Center, SM Megamall, and Abreeza Davao.

Young Miko releases a new music video for ‘WASSUP’ as part of a Spring 2026 campaign of a fashion brand

Vital lessons content creator Adam Shamil learns in leap to entrepreneurship

By Nickie Wang

FOR years, Adam Shamil was known in Malaysia as a top content creator and budding musician, where the work revolved around his personality and the audience that followed it.

That changed in 2024, when he put his life savings into a small food venture that would grow faster than he expected.

THE BeautyCon 2026: World of Beauty wrapped up last Sunday, and I found myself feeling all giddy and inspired on the last day. The four-day event turned out to be a beautiful way to celebrate Women’s Month.

Walking into the venue, it felt like a Disneyland for all things girly. Everywhere you looked, there was something to try, explore, and enjoy. For context, this was my third BeautyCon, and yet, it still managed to surprise me with improvements. Growing up, beauty was simple. I came from a conservative Catholic school where “getting ready” in grade school meant neatly tied hair (with only black or white accessories) and a face lightly dusted with baby powder. That was it. My best friends and I were at that in-between stage of wearing baby bras, figuring our moods out as we had just gotten our periods, and trying, in small ways, to feel a little more grown-up. We used our hands (or handkerchiefs) to pat loose baby powder onto our faces, doing our best to look “presentable.” Sometimes, we got carried away. We’d end up looking like little chocolate crinkles dusted with powdered sugar, and we found joy in that. Because in those pre-teen moments, we felt pretty.

I still remember getting my first compact powder at eleven years old. It was a newly released pressed version of the well-loved baby powder in the ’90s. It felt like an upgrade, like I had unlocked something new. My girlfriends and I did quick touch-ups during breaks. Looking back, it wasn’t really about the powder. It was about the feeling. And somehow, this year’s BeautyCon brought that feeling back—the joy of doing something for yourself. I didn’t realize it was what we now know as self-care.

Held from March 19 to 22, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, BeautyCon has now grown into the country’s biggest beauty event. It featured over 185 brands across more than 9,000 square meters, with interactive booths and exclusive deals. As someone who has attended before, I noticed how much it has improved. The event was more organized—lines were more manageable, there were more counters, and the overall flow felt smoother. The growing pains from earlier editions had clearly been addressed, making space for people to actually enjoy the experience.

“Running this business for the past 23 months has taught me a lot, especially when I compare it to my work as a content creator and musician,” Shamil shared with Manila Standard Life in an interview when he introduced Chunk & Dunk to the Philippine market. He described the shift as moving between “completely different worlds.” Online, he said, “you are the product.” In business, “it’s no longer about you—it’s about the product and the people behind it.” Shamil said he initially imagined his brand as an extension of his online persona, but the realities of running a small and medium enterprise quickly set in. The food industry, he said, is both competitive and emotionally demanding.

“As a content creator, I was used to receiving mostly positive feedback,” he stated. “But in the food business, it’s very different. You’re under constant public scrutiny.”

Criticism became part of the daily routine. Learning to absorb it without losing direction proved to be one of his biggest tests. Pricing was another early challenge, as customers questioned the cost of croffles compared to more familiar items like waffles, despite differences in ingredients and preparation. Apart from developing the product, the scale of responsibility also changed. From working alone with a phone, Shamil now manages nearly 100 employees.

“Every month, I carry the responsibility of providing for the livelihoods of many people,” he pointed out. “That can be intimidating… but it’s also incredibly fulfilling.”

Chunk & Dunk began in Sabah, Malaysia, with a focus on

What stayed with me was the energy. BeautyCon felt unapologetically centered on women, celebrating them in different ways. You could see mothers and daughters bonding, friends helping each other while testing products, and boyfriends or husbands patiently roaming around with their partners.

Just to be clear, it wasn’t exclusively for women. Yes, many of the products were designed with women in mind. But there were also offerings for men, conversations that included them, and spaces

premium croffles—pastry hybrids that combine the texture of croissants with the format of waffles. The brand’s entry into the Philippines traces back to what Shamil described as an unplanned moment.

A trip to an archery tournament in Kota Kinabalu led to a chance encounter with a Filipino family who discovered the brand through a long queue. That meeting eventually opened the door for a local partnership.

Entrepreneur Lester Edward Lim, along with his daughter Chevy Lim , will open the brand’s first Philippine store in Eastwood, Quezon City, in April. Chevy Lim also serves as the brand’s first ambassador in the country.

Shamil considers the expansion a turning point, he did not anticipate when he started.

“Twenty-three months ago, I took a leap of faith,” he said. “And now, I’m standing here…it’s overwhelming in the best way possible.”

where they could take part. It welcomed anyone who connects with that sense of femininity—even those who are women at heart or simply those who want to explore that side of themselves.

It was a space that made you feel that you belong there. What I loved most were the talks. They went beyond beauty in the usual sense. Celebrities, experts, influencers, and creators took the stage not just to promote products during branded segments but to share something real and valuable. You could see it in the presence of Kaila Estrada, Maris Racal, Kai Montinola, Kylie Verzosa, and Heart Evangelista, alongside men like Kyle Echarri and Alden Richards

They spoke about confidence, self-worth, authenticity, and the importance of taking care of yourself, not just

physically, but also mentally and emotionally. It also mattered that many of the brands present were women-led and women-owned. That presence was powerful. It showed that women are not just consumers in the beauty industry but also the ones building it and helping it expand. And maybe that’s why BeautyCon feels so personal to me. Somewhere between the booths and the talks, I see that younger version of myself. She is the girl with powder on her hands, doing her best, figuring things out, and finding small ways to feel confident.

On my way home after the last day, I realized something I hadn’t fully put into words before.

BeautyCon is a celebration of womanhood— maybe not exclusively, but intentionally. It is a space that makes room for being feminine and honors it. And this Women’s Month, that feels like something worth holding on to.

This early, I am already looking forward to next year’s edition. I would love to be reminded that beauty comes in all forms. It is not just about what we already have. Beauty is also so much of what we can become.

For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@gmail.com.