Manila Standard - 2026 May 9 - Saturday

By Rex Espiritu

“Gibo”

ASEAN backs regional

By Katrina Manubay and Charles Dantes

LASEAN to strengthen 3 key agreements

NEWS / A2

APU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations outlined action areas for resilience in response to the evolving situation in the Middle East – including a fuel-sharing pact and a regional power grid – highlighting the bloc's collective resolve amid changing global circumstances.

By Vito Barcelo

swerable

By Minerva Newman

as the operationalization of the ASEAN Power Grid which seeks to “connect the electricity networks of all eleven member-states to enable cross-border power trading, support renewable integration, and

MACTAN NEWTOWN, Lapu-Lapu City — Diplomacy at the 48th ASEAN Summit extended beyond speeches and policy discussions, as Filipino cuisine took center stage during the lunch served to Southeast Asian leaders and delegates here on Friday, May 8.

Chef Marco and Kate Dychangco-Anzani were tasked with creating a dining experience fit for kings and queens while showcasing Filipino identity through refined and elevated cuisine.

“The brief was deceptively simple: create a dining experience worthy of Royalty, Prime Ministers and Presidents,” Kate told Manila Standard.

She said the goal was not excess or theatrics but presenting Filipino flavors through a world-class culinary experience.

“At ASEAN’s Presidential Summit, where leaders of Southeast Asia would gather under one roof, diplomacy would be conducted not just through speeches and policy—but through the quiet, powerful language of food,” she said.

Kate recalled that Chef Marco initially hesitated to accept the challenge but eventually agreed as the couple developed the menu together.

“The menu was masculine-feminine. Filipino Purist vs. Modern Contemporary,” she said.

According to Kate, preparation for the summit meal

“Impeachment is not

and

process designed precisely to ensure that public officials entrusted with immense power remain accountable to the

Bagaforo said.

“Why should anyone fear due process?” he added, saying that claims of innocence would be strengthened, not weakened, by transparent

Meanwhile, the camp of lawyer Manases Carpio, the Vice President’s spouse,

By Rolando Ng III

‘Balikatan’...

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told reporters on the sidelines of the Balikatan closing ceremony. “Nasa kanila yun kung gusto nilang sumama o hindi.”

(We will still discuss it within ASEAN. We are open to it. It's up to them [other nations] whether they want to join or not.)

Teodoro said the government is considering expanding the scope— but not necessarily the scale—of future exercises, including additional operational scenarios and training areas such as the country’s eastern seaboard.

The defense chief said a post-exercise assessment would be conducted to identify operational gaps and improve coordination among military units and service branches.

Balikatan 2026, held from April 20 to May 8, involved around 17,000 troops from the Philippines, the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, France and New Zealand.

The exercises covered maritime, air, land, cyber, electromagnetic and information operations across multiple training sites nationwide.

At the closing ceremony, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. described Balikatan as a “direct investment” in the country’s national defense.

“As we conclude Balikatan 41, let us remember what this exercise ultimately represents for the Filipino people—it is a direct investment in national defense, strengthening our ability to protect our sovereignty, defend our territory, and respond effectively to crises,” Brawner said.

He also said the exercises demonstrated the reliability of the Philippines’ alliance with the United States and strengthened multilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

“For the United States, it reflects a reliable alliance and a form of cooperation that contributes meaningfully to stability in the Indo-Pacific. And for our allies and partners across the region and across the world, Balikatan stands as a model of multilateral cooperation,” Brawner said.

The AFP chief added that the exercises reflected the country’s commitment to “building capability, reinforcing trust, and affirming our shared commitment to peace, security, and a rules-based international order.”

Earlier this week, Teodoro dismissed criticisms from progressive groups that the expanded military exercises were fueling militarization and increasing regional tensions.

“The claims of militarization are totally misplaced in this day and age. When we are open, transparent with the exercises, it's for national security. It’s for everybody to see and to comment on,” Teodoro said during an ambush interview in Ilocos Norte.

Koalisyong Makabayan had criticized recent military activities, including a missile launch from Tacloban Airport and a simulated live-fire exercise in Laur, Nueva Ecija, saying these turned the country into a “playground for imperialist interests.”

Teodoro rejected the accusation, saying the exercises remained under civilian control and were necessary for national defense and preparedness.

“If they view our defense exercises and our resilience exercises as playgrounds, I do not really see the maturity for them to advocate such,” he said during a separate interview in Makati City.

The defense secretary also brushed aside criticism from China over Japan’s participation in the exercises and the recent firing of Japan’s Type 88 missile system during Balikatan activities.

“Papaano?” Teodoro said when asked about China’s claim that the exercises threaten regional stability. “Nakakapagtaka na galing sa China iyon.” ("How so? It is quite surprising, coming from China.)

Teodoro accused Beijing of engaging in coercive activities in the West Philippine Sea and said China’s statements were mainly intended for domestic audiences.

“No one is listening to or believing what China is saying. These messages are just for them to deceive their own countrymen,” he said in Filipino. He also alleged that some Chinese-linked economic and cultural activities served as fronts for espionage, cybercrime and other illegal activities.

“They pretend it's a cultural exchange... but there are many spies among them. They pretend it's business, trade, or industry. But what kind of business is it? Substandard steel, POGO, human trafficking, and cybercrimes,” Teodoro said.

ASEAN leaders agree to strengthen three key regional agreements

By Charles Dantes

SOUTHEAST Asian leaders on Friday adopted a series of regional agreements to strengthen maritime cooperation, disaster response, and youth participation in climate action during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu.

Addressing the media delegations at a press conference at the International Media Center in Cebu, Mr. Marcos highlighted the three agreements, citing the regional bloc's need to reinforce its collaboration in critical areas

Among the measures approved by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations was the ASEAN

ASEAN...

From A1

deliver more affordable electricity to nearly 700 million people.”

In the seven-page ASEAN Leaders’ Statement released after yesterday’s 48th Leaders’ Summit, both measures were adopted.

The leaders likewise sought to safeguard food security and agriculture supply chains as well as to ensure trade and market stability amid the worsening conflict in the Middle East.

“Leaders agreed to keep essential goods moving, maintain open and predictable markets, strengthen intraASEAN trade, and reinforce regional food security mechanisms,” Mr. Marcos said.

The bloc stressed “the need to preserve the unimpeded flow of energy and essential goods, including food,

‘Diplomacy...

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began early, with chefs working in a disciplined and focused kitchen environment.

“The menu didn’t read like a lunch or dinner—it read like a diplomatic script,” she said.

The menu, which took months to prepare, highlighted ingredients sourced from across the Philippines to create what Kate described as “a culinary journey of the Philippines.”

Lunch opened with artisanal brown grain Cordillera bread paired with rich crab fat, or “aligue,” butter.

“It was the opening line: ‘We know who we are,’” Kate said.

The next course featured poached lobster medallion served with cauliflower espuma and wild asparagus.

“It looked like a painting. Ocean and Garden: The Pearl of the Orient,” she said.

Guests were then served adlai risotto with sea urchin, coconut cream and pili nut pesto, finished with crispy squash flower.

“A humble grain, elevated to

Impeachment...

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case filed before a Quezon City court was not intended to stop or interfere with ongoing impeachment proceedings in Congress against Vice President Sara Duterte.

In a statement, Carpio’s camp said the petition specifically sought to prevent the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) from releasing or transmitting Annual Tax Returns (ATRs) or Income Tax Returns (ITRs), which they argued are protected by confidentiality provisions under existing tax laws.

“To clarify, the case filed before the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City does not seek to stop, restrain, or interfere with the ongoing impeachment proceedings in Congress,” the statement read.

It said the issue before the court was limited to preventing what it described as the unauthorized disclosure of confidential tax records.

Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation, which seeks to enhance collaboration among member states on maritime issues amid growing concerns over regional security and stability in the South China Sea.

"The Declaration also includes the proposal for the establishment of an ASEAN Maritime Centre in

agricultural inputs, pharmaceutical products, and transport fuels, in order to safeguard economic stability and strengthen resilience across ASEAN.”

They also expressed concern over any “discriminatory or unilateral measures” that may impede or obstruct vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz and called for the restoration of the safe, unimpeded, and continuous transit passage of vessels and aircraft.

Around 20 percent of the world's seaborne oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, according to the International Energy Agency, 80 percent of it bound for Asian markets.

The region’s heads of state also underscored the need to ensure the safety and welfare of ASEAN nationals in the affected areas in the Middle East.

“As for the safety of ASEAN nationals abroad, for the Philippines, this remains a deeply important

presidential level,” Kate said, describing the dish as a strategy to elevate local ingredients on the international stage.

The main course featured Bukidnon Kitayama beef on smoked eggplant alongside Cebu lapu-lapu fish served with sweet potato and string beans.

“Two proteins, two stories. One message: Harmony,” Kate said.

Dessert consisted of a trio of Filipino-inspired sweets: cannolo di turon, kalamansi bonbon from Bohol, and maja blanca rosquillos cheesecake.

“Filipino street food dressed in couture,” Kate said of the cannolo di turon.

“No one rushed. No one spoke immediately, because this wasn’t just food, it was positioning,” she added.

Kate said the summit meal ultimately became more than a culinary showcase.

“The Philippines didn’t just host the summit. It defined it,” she said.

As the event concluded, Kate said the team took pride in having delivered more than a meal.

“They had done more than serve a meal. They had hosted a moment in history,” she said.

Bagaforo, who also chairs the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission on Interreligious Dialogue, said Duterte should treat the proceedings as an opportunity to clear her name amid growing public distrust in institutions.

He warned that resisting accountability could further weaken confidence in government, particularly in a country long hounded by corruption allegations.

“At a time when citizens increasingly question the integrity of public institutions, the nation’s highest officials must not exempt themselves from accountability,” he said.

The bishop also urged government leaders, civil society groups and the public to allow the impeachment proceedings to move forward peacefully and transparently.

“Let evidence be examined. Let truth emerge. Let justice prevail,” Bagaforo said. “Accountability is not political harassment. Justice is not destabilization.”

the Philippines," said the President.

The bloc also adopted the ASEAN Declaration on Youth Empowerment in Climate Action and Disaster Resilience, recognizing the role of young people in addressing climaterelated challenges and strengthening community preparedness for natural disasters.

Leaders likewise endorsed the ASEAN Strategic Protocol for Emergency and Comprehensive Transformation, or ASPECT, Framework on disaster response, a regional mechanism designed to improve coordination and accelerate emergency assistance during crises and natural calamities.

He cited the support extended by the Asian Development Bank

priority. Millions of Filipinos live and work overseas—in shipping, healthcare, construction, and other sectors vulnerable to global disruptions. ASEAN agreed to work more closely together through faster coordination, accelerated information-sharing, stronger cooperation with host governments, and timely support for those ASEAN nationals who may need urgent assistance, evacuation, and/or repatriation,” Mr. Marcos said.

President Marcos opened the 48th ASEAN Summit by urging Southeast Asian leaders to strengthen unity and cooperation as the region grapples with global instability.

"The work of ASEAN must continue, not despite the challenges, but because the times demand our answers to those challenges,” he said, adding that the bloc’s strength lies "not from uniformity, but from unity."

Diesel,...

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Iranian blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) chief said in Panama Thursday. An industry source said based on this week’s first four days of Mean of Platts Singapore movement and foreign exchange averages, gasoline will increase by P1 to P4 per liter. Diesel is expected to roll back by P6 to P8 per liter.

“MOPS prices on diesel and other middle distillates have moved in tandem with crude oil, which eased down this week on diplomatic signals from both the US and Iran on the latest peace proposal in the Middle East,” the source said.

“The lower diesel MOPS price this week is further weighed down by the continued easing of the cargo premium. Gasoline MOPS price however is buoyed by a looming supply tightness due to seasonal demand increase, which also pushed the cargo premium higher this week,” he said.

Oil companies implemented the mandated price adjustments for the week effective May 5, 2026.

Prices of gasoline increased ranges from P2.20 to P2.21 per liter ; diesel also increased ranges from P2.60 to P2.66 per liter while kerosene decreased by P3.53 per liter.

The Department of Energy said the 18th price movement this year resulted in a total net increase of P46.44 per liter for gasoline, P51.62 per liter for diesel and P54.46 per liter for kerosene as the Middle East crisis continued to weigh on global oil prices.

The violence at the Strait of Hormuz threatened to unravel a fragile truce that went into effect since April 8 and forestalled hostilities between the US and Iran.

"Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones and small boats" at the three US warships, but none were hit, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on X, adding that it "eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible."

"CENTCOM does not seek escalation but remains positioned and ready to protect American forces," it said. Iran's central military command meanwhile accused the US of violating the ceasefire by attacking an oil tanker and another ship on Thursday,

(ADB) for ASEAN programs in regional connectivity, capital markets, AI readiness, energy security, food security, blue economy, social protection, and health.

"We look forward to enhancing our cooperation with ADB through its planned support for major ASEAN initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid, ASEAN Capital Markets Initiative, AI readiness, blue economy, and resilient rivers," said the President.

The agreements were adopted as ASEAN leaders emphasized the need for stronger regional unity and collective action in confronting climate risks, maritime tensions, and increasingly frequent disasters across Southeast Asia.

During the Retreat Session, Mr. Marcos warned that ASEAN nations remain vulnerable to external shocks, particularly disruptions affecting oil supply chains, trade, and global markets.

“While the impact may differ from country to country in ASEAN at present, there is no denying that this disruption will have an impact on the future. Even if the tensions de-escalate in time, the damage to critical infrastructure, to vital systems, and trust in general will continue to be felt for years to come,” he said.

“The domino effect of oil supply disruptions on the various sectors of our countries has affected how we conduct business, how we work, (and) how we live…A few weeks’ worth of disruptions will take years to be corrected, testing not just our governments, but also our communities.”

saying Tehran's forces "immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels."

US President Donald Trump had fueled hopes of a deal just the day before, saying an agreement could be near, even as he again threatened to return to bombing if Tehran refused to back down.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran would communicate its position to mediator Pakistan "after finalizing its views."

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had struck an optimistic tone prior to the exchanges of fire on Thursday, saying in televised remarks: "I firmly believe that this ceasefire will turn into a long-term ceasefire."

The war in the Middle East, unleashed February 28 by Israel and the United States against Iran, provoked reprisals from Tehran across the region and a shipping blockade in Hormuz, a crucial global trade route.

"Right now, we have approximately 20,000 crewmen and around 1,500 ships trapped," IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez told the Maritime Convention of the Americas.

Dominguez said that maritime shipping moves over 80 percent of total consumed products in the world. The stranded crew members "are innocent people who are doing their jobs every day for the benefit of other countries," but "are trapped by geopolitical situations outside their control," Dominguez told the gathering of industry executives and IMO representatives.

"Ten sailors have lost their lives" in more than 30 attacks on vessels, he later told reporters.

The IMO chief urged avoiding sending vessels to the Gulf so as not to increase the death toll among sailors or incur further economic losses. Before the conflict's outbreak, a fifth of the world's total petroleum and gas passed through the Strait of Hormuz. The closure has led to a significant global surge in the price of hydrocarbons.

On Monday, US President Donald Trump announced a naval operation to escort the trapped ships and force the opening of the strait, but called off the push shortly after.

Washington is now waiting for an Iranian response to proposals for ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. AFP

16 BARMM parties secure Comelec nod

By Vito Barcelo and Nash B. Maulana

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has accredited 16 regional political parties for the first-ever Bangsamoro parliamentary elections in September, a move election officials said would widen voter choice in the autonomous region.

stay any longer with the party which he helped organize as its secretary-general. Comelec chairman George Garcia said approval of the parties came after petitions opposing the registration of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) were

dismissed.

Garcia said the accreditation process was guided by the commission’s effort to encourage broader political participation ahead of the historic polls.

The poll body also approved 23 of 26 sectoral organizations seeking accreditation. Garcia said the Comelec adopted a more flexible approach in evaluating the applications, especially for groups with minor documentary deficiencies, provided due process was not compromised.

He noted that the upcoming polls would mark the first parliamentary election in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), prompting the commission to ensure as many

qualified groups as possible could participate. Comelec is also set to publish next week the certificates of candidacy (COCs) of aspirants seeking parliamentary district seats. May 7 is the deadline for filing the COCs and submitting consolidated lists of coalition nominees. Garcia said the official list of candidates would be finalized after the poll body has reviewed all declarations and approved the names to be printed on the ballots.

The Comelec chief also disclosed that the commission is considering placing candidate photos on ballots, provided the images were taken within six months prior to the filing of their COCs.

He said the proposal could eventually be expanded to national elections to help voters better identify their candidates. Macacua said there were apparently better replacements for him, citing as example lawyer Mary Ann Arnado as his possible replacement in the UBJP. Bangsamoro Federalist Party (BFP) president Dr. Tomanda Antok said he was being hopeful that Macacua would accept his nomination as the party’s bet for the third district of Kabuntalan and Sultan Kudarat. Antok added that the BFP and at least three other political parties have mobilized support for the governance agenda of Macacua.

IN BRIEF

Retirement triggers latest PNP overhaul

SIX senior police officers were given new assignments in the latest revamp of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. designated Ilocos Region police director Brig. Gen. Dindo Reyes as acting deputy chief for controllership based in Camp Crame. Reyes replaces Maj. Gen. Westrimundo Obinque, who is scheduled to hang up his uniform on May 9 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56. Region 4 (MIMAROPA) director Brig. Gen. Jovencio Badua takes over the post vacated by Reyes, while Northern Police District (NPD) chief Brig. Gen. Christopher Dela Cruz is named Badua’s successor. Deputy director for education and training Brig. Gen. Benliner Capili moves over to the NPD vice Dela Cruz, Negros Island Region director Brig. Gen. Arnold Ibay succeeds Capili, while Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño goes to Negros Island. Vince Lopez

Nartatez eyes tougher laws to combat vapes

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday, expressed support for stricter enforcement and regulatory mechanism to dismantle the illicit vape trade in the country, according to General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. Nartatez said police units across the country have been directed to intensify their intelligence monitoring to identify the specific individuals and organized groups engaged in the unlawful distribution and sale of vapes.

“We are concerned by the health issues raised by our experts, especially on the adverse effects to teenagers, including minors who unfortunately have access to these products,” the PNP chief said. Earlier, the Department of Health reported an increase in the number of youth suffering from lung problems due to the use of vape products. The agency sought tougher laws that include possible ban on all vape products. Vince Lopez

Seaman dies after fall into elevator shaft

A 33-year-old seaman on furlough reportedly died after falling off an ele -

Co now in France; Ang seen in Cavite—DILG

By Rolando Ng III

DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla bared on Friday that fugitive ex-lawmaker Zaldy Co is currently living inside his property in France.

At the same time, Remulla also disclosed that gambling lord Charlie Atong Ang who has gone into hiding was reportedly sighted in Cavite.

Remulla told reporters during the Kapihan sa Samahang Plaridel that Co has been reported to be in his 10-bedroom Champs-Élysées residence worth €200

By Maricel V. Cruz

million.

The camp of Co denied, however reports that he is currently staying at a luxury property in Paris. In a text message to News5, the fugitive lawmaker’s counsel, lawyer Rio Rondain, said Co does not own a 10-bedroom residence in the French capital, adding that he has no information on his client’s whereabouts.

“I do not know where he is, but I do know that Rep. Co does not own a 10-bedroom unit in Paris,” Rondain said.

Champs-Élysées is an avenue l in Paris that is host to luxury fashion shops, including Christian Dior.

AKBAYAN party-list Rep. Chel Diokno has filed a resolution calling for a congressional inquiry into the recent surge in electricity rates and the growing burden of various pass-through charges imposed on consumers by the Meralco and other distribution utilities.

House Resolution 995 directs the House Committee on Energy to investigate the impact of electricity subsidies and other charges being passed on to consumers through their monthly power bills.

Diokno co-authored the resolution with fellow Akbayan party-list Reps. Percival Cendaña and Dadah Kiram Ismula, and Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao.

The seasoned lawyer noted that consumers are charged for various items, including generation, transmission, system loss, universal, lifeline subsidy, and missionary electrification charges; feed-in tariff and green energy auction allowances; on top of various taxes.

These have all been allowed under relevant laws, such as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), the Expanded Lifeline Rate Act, the Renewable Energy Act, and the Expanded Senior Citizens Act.

“At a time when Filipino families are already struggling with rising prices of basic goods, they should not be burdened further by unclear and burdensome charges in their electricity bills,” Diokno said.

“He has a 10-bedroom house in Champs-Élysées near Christian Dior,” Remulla said. He added that they surmised crossed over to France after being released by the Czech Republic where the former Ako Bicol congressman was briefly detained. Remulla admitted that he was responsible for informing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of Co’s detention in Prague. He also confirmed that Co was intercepted by Czech authorities as he presented an expired Philippine passport while attempting to enter Germany. On April 27, Justice Secretary Fredd-

erick Vida also bared that Co has been released by the Czech authorities. Remulla explained that Ang, tagged as the mastermind behind the alleged disappearances of cockfighters (sabungeros), was last spotted in Cavite last month. “He’s here in the Philippines, for sure. Last sighting was Cavite one month ago,” Remulla said during the Plaridel news forum.

Despite the information provided, Remulla admitted that his 300-member strike team formed to get Ang was not able to capture the fugitive at his hideout in the undisclosed town.

By Ram Superable

MidEast war a ‘stress test’ for ASEAN, says ERIA president

By Katrina Manubay

THE ongoing conflict in the Middle East should be viewed as a “stress test” for the economic resilience of Southeast Asia as ASEAN leaders push for stronger regional commitment to address the energy crisis and supply chain disruptions, Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) President Tetsuya Watanabe said.

“The current situation should be understood not only as a temporary price shock, but as a broader stress test for ASEAN. ASEAN’s economic resilience and preparedness. But I think ASEAN has responded very effectively with agility, particularly under the Philippine Chairship this year,” he said.

Watanabe pointed out that although ASEAN does not have a centralized governing structure like the European Union, a flexible and diverse system has allowed collaboration and community-building efforts to progress amid crises and global uncertainties.

“It’s a more flexible system. But ASEAN’s collaboration journey will not step back. Of course, one step, next step, but it’s not moving backward. That is the history of ASEAN, community building… No one can dictate. I mean, collective wisdom and government and private partnership assessing the situation, coming with optimal policy solutions are essential,” he added.

The ERIA chief explained that addressing the crisis across the ASEAN bloc will require cooperation that respects national sovereignty while fostering shared regional benefits.

TRADITIONAL DRYING METHOD. Farmers dry their rice harvest in Gapan, Nueva Ecija before transporting the grains to millers or warehouses. Revoli Cortez

IN BRIEF

Senator seeks EV loan plan from GSIS, SSS

A SENATOR called on the country’s primary social insurance institutions to offer financing options that would allow their members to purchase electric vehicles.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday said the Social Security System and the Government Service Insurance System should establish dedicated loan facilities to help Filipinos manage high fuel costs.

“Many desire to purchase EVs, but are hindered by their high price. If there were loan facilities for the purchase of EVs, it would better assist our fellow citizens who are already struggling with the continuous rise in the prices of gasoline and diesel,” he said.

Veloso parents urge SC to release Mary Jane

By Pot Chavez

THE parents of Mary Jane Veloso filed a motion for resolution on Friday, asking the Supreme Court to act on a petition seeking their daughter’s release.

“Please return our daughter to us so we can spend time with her,” said Celia Veloso, Mary Jane’s mother.

“Our plea, Mr. President, is for Mary Jane’s freedom. Please grant us this,” she added.

Celia, along with her husband Cesar and members of Migrante International,

gathered in front of the High Court two days before Mother’s Day.

A petition for habeas corpus for Mary Jane was filed in November, stating her continued detention was illegal because she was not charged under Philippine laws.

In 2010, the former domestic helper was arrested in Indonesia after being

caught with 2.6 kilos of heroin inside a suitcase sent to her by her recruiters

Cristina Sergio and Julius Lacanilao.

“Mary Jane’s plight and story is emblematic of the struggles of thousands of Filipino migrant workers who are exploited, trafficked, and made vulnerable because of the Philippine government’s refusal to address the root causes of poverty and forced migration,” said Joanna Concepcion, Migrante International chairperson.

At present, Mary Jane remains detained at the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong.

Bill to provide benefits for freelance, gig workers pushed

By Maricel V. Cruz

A GROUP of legislators from the Bicol Region on Friday appealed to the Senate to prioritize the passage of a bill providing benefits to workers of the socalled “gig” industry or freelancers.

Reps. Migz Villafuerte and Luigi Villafuerte of Camarines Sur, principal au-

thors of the House-approved bill, said the Senate’s action on the measure is needed to provide safeguard freelancers who are highly vulnerable to unfair labor practices by errant employer.

“In place of the traditional working setup, more and more forty-something and younger Filipinos are being drawn to freelance work, especially on online

dividually

By Vince Lopez

THE

platforms, for their principal or extra incomes in the informal economy,” Migz said. Luigi, for his part, added: “The popular freelance jobs include virtual assistance, delivery of creative services, digital marketing, and other forms of services that are project-based and primarily focused on output compliance.”

allegedly selling GSM-based text blasters online. In Parañaque, two suspects allegedly

URGENT PLEA. Mary Jane Veloso’s parents, Celia and Cesar Veloso, file a motion for resolution with the Supreme Court in Manila, urging the High Court to act on their petition for a writ of habeas corpus for the release of the former domestic worker. Norman Cruz

The senator said this initiative would accelerate the country’s transition to sustainable transportation while reducing national reliance on expensive imported oil. He added that expanding essential infrastructure, such as charging stations, is critical to encouraging more buyers to make the switch. Additionally, owners could redirect the money saved on traditional fuel expenses to cover their monthly vehicle loan payments, Gatchalian said. Ram Superable

Giant fruit bats signal healthy ecosystem

FLORA, Apayao– Several colonies of flying foxes, also known as giant fruit bats, were spotted in the municipality during a two-week biodiversity monitoring mission conducted between the collaboration of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) - Calanasan, the Provincial Government of Apayao, and the local government unit.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Cordillera Administrative Region (DENRCAR), shared that the significant number of flying foxes observed in the area serves as an indicator of a healthy ecosystem capable of sustaining diverse wildlife.

Moreover, CENRO-Calanasan said the sighting of a large number of flying foxes indicates that the area’s habitat remains capable of supporting higher trophic species, or top predators.

The biodiversity monitoring activity mainly aimed to track threatened wildlife species in the province. Dexter See

2 wanted persons nabbed at NAIA-3

THE Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNPAvsegroup) carried out two operations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3, leading to the apprehension of two individuals wanted for grave offenses, including the abuse of women and children, as well as numerous counts of estafa.

The first individual apprehended on Wednesday, May 6, was a passenger arriving from Zamboanga, who had an outstanding warrant for multiple violations of Batas Pambansa 22 in Manila.

Citing the 2020 Global Gig Economy Index by global online payment account Payoneer, the two lawmakers said the Philippines is No. 1 on the list of fastest-growing freelancing countries with a revenue growth of over 200 percent, and No. 3—after the United States and India—when it comes to market size for freelance workers.

This police operation followed a report from a complainant who collaborated with the PNP-Avsegroup and Barbosa Police Station 14 of the Manila Police District (MPD) concerning the arrival of the suspect, a 55-year-old businessman residing in Quezon City. Authorities promptly moved to the Domestic Arrival area where they arrested and subsequently detained the suspect at NAIA Police Station 3 for further investigation. Joel E. Zurbano

OPINION

Need for folklore transcription

WITH the indulgence of Genoveva, marginalized regional languages, which include the folklore of the country’s regions, don’t start from the Ilokanos in the north and finish the line to the Maranaos of the two Lanaos in Mindanao.

Folklore, the traditional, expressive culture shared by a particular group of people, passed down informally through generations, often by word of mouth, imitation, or performance, go farther north to Batanes and farther south to Tawi Tawi in the Sulu archipelago.

We remember the signature tune “From Aparri to Jolo” – but that’s better forgotten.

Jose Juan Cataluña, an Ivatan, tells us they also have folklore, similarly echoed by Abdurajak Mohammad of Sama and Tausug lineage, not taught in formal school curricula, but rather exists as a living body of knowledge, including oral narratives, customs, material handicrafts, and performances that define the social group’s identity.

We have always argued that folklore – north and south of Manila, which encompasses more than just fairy tales or old stories which Ilokanos call “sariugma” – is considered a basic part of cultural heritage because it acts as a “living archive” that preserves the community’s unique history, morals, and identity.

Folklore falls into three categories: verbal – oral narratives like tales, myths, legends, proverbs, jokes, songs, and poems; customary – behaviors and rituals like festivals, dances, recipes, superstitions, and traditional games; material culture – tangible items crafted by hand, like traditional clothing, architecture, pottery, and handicrafts.

You may ask, Genoveva, why folklore is part of cultural heritage?

Folklore, culture scholars say, is indispensable for preserving intangible cultural heritage, as it defines “us” versus “them” within a culture and maintains continuity over time. It preserves the unique identity of a group – instance, the Ivatans, the Ybanags, the Samas and the Tausugs, among the marginalized – showcasing its creativity and resilience.

Scholars add folkore acts as a repository of a nation’s or community’s collective wisdom, memory, and worldview, ensuring that the essence of who they are endures; connects generations and transmits values, acting as a bridge between ancestors and current generations, imparting moral wisdom, ethics, and cultural norms.

Stories and proverbs are used to teach children about what the culture deems good, bad, kind, or necessary, reinforcing social behavior through shared stories.

Folklore also strengthens community bonds as festivities, rituals, and storytelling sessions based on traditional folklore bring people together, foster-

ing social cohesion, unity, and a shared sense of pride.

Folklore validates culture, justifying its rituals and institutions to those who perform and observe them and often serves to apply social pressure, reinforcing behavioral norms in a way that is informal yet deeply respected.

Folklore, which acts as a living and adaptive mechanism, is not antiquated nor static but continues to be created and adapted, allowing communities to address modern challenges while preserving their unique traditions.

—“—

Folklore preserves intangible cultural heritage and defines ‘us’ versus ‘them’ within a culture and maintains continuity over time

Instance, the use of folk music and stories on social media platforms like TikTok is a modern form of preserving and sharing folklore.

Essentially, while formal history often focuses on kings and wars, folklore narrates the story of everyday people, acting as a crucial, living record of human thought, social structure, and cultural continuity.

Folklore, primarily verbal and passed down through oral tradition rather than written, is created and transmitted through performance and verbal interaction, and can be transcribed into written form, often referred to as “folk literature.”

We are glad several government agencies and affiliated bodies are actively working to record, document, and preserve oral folk tales, myths, and legends from the northernmost islands of Batanes to the far southern Sulu Archipelago.

The primary agencies conducting these efforts include the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), which leads initiatives for cultural heritage preservation and funds documentation projects, including the Schools for Living Tradition program, which connects tradition-bearers with younger generations to pass on oral literature.

There is also the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples; the National Library of the Philippines; the National Museum of the Philippines, the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino; and Local Government Units as well as the Mindanao Folklore Revitalization Program.

Motherhood: A journey of roses and thorns

By Neus Bernabeu

IN THE Philippines, mothers hold a place of deep honor. They are often seen as the heart of the home—the quiet strength behind families, the steady hands that nurture, provide, and hold everything together. Across generations, Filipino mothers have shaped not only households, but communities and the nation itself. Yet behind this reverence lies a more complex reality. From the very beginning—pregnancy—many women already face significant risks and barriers. Strong policies such as the Universal Health Care Act and the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act exist, but for many women—especially those in lowincome communities, disaster-affected areas, or conflict settings—safe motherhood is still not guaranteed.

While the Philippines has taken an important step forward with the recent expansion of PhilHealth maternity benefits, more than doubling coverage for

both normal and cesarean deliveries, challenges in access and implementation persist. Despite the decreasing maternal mortality, the numbers remain sobering. In 2024 alone, 119 women died for every 100,000 live births according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

CContinuing threats to coral reefs

ORAL reefs in the Philippines are heavily endangered by the El Niño expected in 2026, with scientists warning this climate event could lead to widespread collapse and irreversible damage.

Following severe marine heatwaves in 2023–2024, many reefs have not had enough time to recover.

The predicted 2026 El Niño may act as a tipping point, preventing any recovery and causing extensive bleaching.

The Philippines holds approximately 25,000 to 27,000 square kilometers of coral reefs, which is the second largest area in Southeast Asia. Located at the apex of the Coral Triangle, these reefs are crucial for marine biodiversity, coastal protection, and economic livelihoods, hosting over 400 species of corals.

PAGASA earlier issued an El Niño Alert, indicating a 79 percent chance of this climate phenomenon developing in the June-July-August 2026 season, likely persisting until early 2017.

El Niño brings warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures, which cause corals to expel the algae living

in their tissues, leading to bleaching and potential death.

Climatologists have said studies indicate that 98 percent of coral reefs in Southeast Asia could be lost by 2050, and 2026 acts as a major acceleration of this trend due to intense heat.

These reefs constitute the second largest in Southeast Asia and the third-largest in the world

The collapse of these reefs directly impacts coastal protection against strong typhoons – which are also expected to occur – and threatens food security for millions reliant on fishing. Are coral reefs that important for

this archipelagic country?

The Philippines is part of the “Coral Triangle,” the center of the most diverse marine habitat on Earth, harboring nearly 500 species of hard corals which suggest the ecosystems support millions of Filipinos by providing food (fish protein) and driving tourism.

Coral reefs act as natural barriers, protecting coastal communities from storm surges and wave erosion, and they are vital habitats and nurseries for thousands of species of fish, essential for both local artisanal fishing and commercial fisheries.

But while they are important, the reefs, which cover from 25,000 to 27,000 square kilometers, with the largest concentration in the western and central parts, are under threat. Surveys show that over 90 percent of Philippine reefs are rated in poor or fair condition. Only about 4 to 5 percent of these reefs are currently under some form of protection, with a goal to increase this to ensure long-term sustainability. As part of the Coral Triangle, authorities say these reefs constitute the second largest in Southeast Asia and the third-largest in the world.

Leo marks one year as pope in Pompeii, Naples

POMPEII, Italy – Pope Leo XIV marked one year as leader of the Catholic Church Friday with a visit to southern Italy, returning to his flock after weeks dominated by a clash with Washington.

The first American pontiff marked the anniversary of his May 8, 2025 election in Pompeii and Naples, starting the visit at a shrine founded by a former Satanic priest.

The 70-year-old pope will arrive shortly before 9:00 am (3 pm, Manila time) at the sanctuary of the Virgin of the Rosary of Pompeii, near the ruins of the ancient Roman city destroyed by a volcanic eruption.

It holds the body of Bartolo Longo, a 19th-century saint who rediscovered his Catholic faith after being a Satanic priest.

Leo will also celebrate a mass and travel by popemobile through the crowd, with tens of thousands of faithful expected to attend.

On the eve of the visit, hundreds of seats had been set up in the plaza in front of the basilica, with workers performing soundchecks from the stage where Leo will appear.

Local Nicoletta Barbato, 51, said she volunteered for a charity helping disadvantaged families who Leo is scheduled to meet on Friday.

She said she would be presenting a baby from one of the families for the pope’s blessing.

“The hope is that the five-month-old baby will get blessed,” she said, vowing to hold her up high in his sights.

The sanctuary has a strong connection

For those who survive childbirth, another set of challenges begins.

Motherhood often comes with what is known as the “motherhood penalty”— reduced income, stalled career growth, and limited opportunities. Many workplaces still fall short in supporting working mothers and there are persistent gaps in maternity protection.

In the informal sector, where many Filipino women work, social protection remains limited or nonexistent.

with Leo, who cited the Virgin of the Rosary of Pompeii in his first address from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.

The pope will then head to nearby Naples, the teeming southern Italian metropolis where he will venerate the relics of San Gennaro, the city’s patron saint, and salute the crowds in the Piazza del Plebiscito.

The one-day trip marks the first of several short pastoral visits planned this summer in Italy, and comes a fortnight after a tour of four African nations.

Across generations, Filipino mothers have shaped not only households, but communities and the nation itself —“—

These are not just statistics; they are lives lost to largely preventable causes. Every maternal death tells a story of a woman who expected to return home with her child, but never did.

At home, the imbalance continues. Women carry the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work—raising children, managing households, and caring for family members—often on top of paid employment. Gender norms continue to reinforce the idea that caregiving is primarily a woman’s responsibility: that of mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and sisters. This must change. Fathers, and men, must be equally engaged in caregiving. Care is a shared responsibility between men and women. When men participate fully at home, families thrive, women are empowered, and societies benefit from what is called the “gender

Leo will also celebrate a mass and travel by popemobile through the crowd, with tens of thousands of faithful expected to attend

But that tour, and the run-up to Friday’s anniversary, have been overshadowed by Trump’s extraordinary attack on Leo last month over the pontiff’s anti-war stance. Leo on Thursday met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Vatican, with the latter seeking to mend ties.

A US spokesman hailed the “strong relationship” between the Vatican and the Holy See, while an official told AFP the talks had been “friendly and construc-

dividend”—the social and economic gains that come from greater equality.

Care is a fundamental human right and its accomplishment can not be a responsibility only for women. Care work needs to be redistributed among family members and the community.

At the same time, we must affirm a fundamental truth: motherhood is both a right and a choice. We must support women who choose to become mothers—and also respect those who cannot, or choose not to. No woman should be defined or judged solely by her decision around motherhood.

Social pressure, stigma, and expectations should never override a woman’s autonomy over her own body and life.

Motherhood is not just a personal and transformative journey that brings joy and love.

It is shaped by the systems and societies around it. It carries costs—not only financial, but physical, emotional, and professional.

Tomorrow, when we celebrate Mothers Day, let’s remember as a society that this is all year’s work that we need to value, support and protect.

tive”.

In a terse statement, the Vatican said the Holy See and the United States discussed the “need to work tirelessly for peace”.

Two saints, many crowds A long line of popes, including Leo’s predecessor Francis, Benedict XVI and John Paul II, have prayed at the sanctuary in Pompeii, which is known for charitable works.

The shrine also has a strong connection with Leo XIII -- the 19th century pope who inspired the current pontiff with his defense of workers -- who made the shrine a pontifical basilica in 1901. Its founder, Longo, was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1980 and canonized -- made a saint -- by Leo in October 2025. Pompeii resident Salvatore Pepe, 44, said the crush of pilgrims expected Friday might keep him away.

“I live 50 metres from the plaza, so I can stick my head out of the window,” he laughed.

In Pompeii, Leo will meet with people helped by sanctuary charity programmes, pray before the glass case holding Longo’s preserved body inside the sanctuary, and celebrate a mass.

The pope will then fly by helicopter to Naples, where he heads to the Duomo, the cathedral that hold the relics of San Gennaro, and give a speech.

He will then greet the crowds gathered in the huge Piazza del Plebiscito outside the Basilica of St Francis of Paola, where inside he will give another address, before departing the city. AFP

The path forward is clear: strengthen health systems to ensure safe pregnancy and childbirth for all; expand social protection systems; promote equitable workplaces; challenge harmful gender norms by encouraging shared caregiving responsibilities and the development of shared care policies and programmes. Today, we honor not only mothers. To every Inay, Mama, Momshie, and Mommy— To grandmothers who continue to nurture across generations, To women who care for others as if they were their own, To those who long to become mothers, And to those who have chosen a different path but continue to build and care for communities— Happy Mother’s Day.

(The author is the Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund in the Philippines. With more than 20 years of experience in international development, she has spearheaded initiatives on gender equality, youth empowerment, and human rights across Latin America, the Caribbean and the Philippines. She is the mother of two young men).

EU monitor says sea temperatures near all-time highs as El Niño up

PARIS—The European Union’s climate monitor said Friday that ocean temperatures are edging toward record highs as conditions shift toward a potentially powerful El Niño weather pattern.

Samantha Burgess from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) said sea surface temperatures in recent days were just shy of the all-time highs of 2024—and May looked set to break its own record.

“It’s a matter of days before we are back in record-breaking ocean SSTs (sea surface temperatures) again,” Burgess, strategic lead for climate at ECMWF, told AFP.

The Copernicus Climate Change Service said daily sea surface temperatures in April “gradually inched” toward near-record highs, reflecting the transition to El Niño expected in coming months.

Copernicus, which is overseen by the ECMWF, said sea surface temperatures in April were the second-highest measured, with marine heatwaves breaking records in the ocean between the tropical Pacific and United States.

Last month, the World Meteorological Organization said El Niño conditions could develop as soon as May to July.

One phase of a natural climate cycle in Pacific Ocean temperatures and trade winds, El Niño influences global weather and increases the likelihood of drought, heavy rainfall and other climate extremes. AFP

Where are the flash points in next week’s talks between Trump, Xi?

WASHINGTON, DC—Donald Trump is poised to be the first US president visiting China in almost a decade, but an uneasy trade truce and tensions over Iran and Taiwan loom over his trip next week.

All eyes will be on Trump’s talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Analysts said with an advance team already in Beijing, Trump’s travel will likely proceed even without an end to hostilities in the Middle East. What’s on the agenda for the leaders of the world’s two biggest economies?

NoKor to deploy new artillery along border

SEOUL—North Korea plans to deploy a new type of artillery along its southern border, state media said Friday, potentially putting Seoul within striking range as Pyongyang deepens its hostility towards South Korea.

Despite peace overtures from the South Korean government, the North has repeatedly cast Seoul as its main adversary, and recently removed longstanding references to Korean unification from its constitution.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a munitions factory this week to review production of a “new-type 155-millimetre self-propelled gunhowitzer”, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.

The weapon has a range exceeding 60 kilometres (37 miles) and will be deployed this year to a long-range artillery unit along the border with South Korea, according to KCNA.

Central Seoul lies around 50 to 60 kilometres from the frontier, and much of Gyeonggi province—South Korea’s most populous, home to key industrial hubs—would also fall within range.

The howitzer will “provide significant changes and advantages to our military’s ground operations”, KCNA reported Kim as saying.

North and South Korea remain technically at war because their 195053 conflict ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty.

In recent years, Pyongyang has blown up roads and railways linking it with the South, and purportedly built barriers near the border.

In another sign of its hardening stance, North Korea deleted all references to uniting the divided peninsula from its constitution, an AFP review of the latest version this week showed.

The document no longer contains a clause saying Pyongyang seeks “the reunification of the homeland”, and includes a new one defining North Korea’s territory as extending northwards to China and Russia, and southwards to the “Republic of Korea”, the South’s official name.

South Korea’s presidential office said on Thursday that it would continue to pursue peace efforts with the North. AFP

Taiwan question Xi might try to push for US policy changes on self-governed Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory.

Trump’s transactional style of diplomacy has raised concerns about his willingness to defend the island

from China.

He rattled nerves by suggesting previously that Taiwan should pay the United States for protection.

Wuttke expects Beijing to be a “subtle negotiator” and “cautious not to overplay their cards.”

Pressure on Iran

The US-Israel war on Iran overhangs Trump’s visit, which he already postponed once because of the conflict.

Some experts expressed uncertainty on whether the summit would proceed.

But Joerg Wuttke of advisory firm

DGA-Albright Stonebridge Group told AFP: “The president would not like to put the Iranians in a position where they can determine if he can travel.”

Padilla expects Trump “would like China to continue pushing Iran to make a deal.”

Both sides will likely discuss China’s oil purchases from Iran, Greer told Bloomberg Television this week. China is less exposed than other Asian economies to shortages of oil and gas after Tehran’s blockage of the Strait of Hormuz. Nonetheless, it is not immune to economic fallout. AFP

GENEVA—The World Health Organization said Thursday that more hantavirus cases could emerge after the disease killed three passengers from a cruise ship, but it expected the outbreak to be limited if precautions were taken.

Another sick passenger from the MV Hondius landed in Europe earlier in the day, as the vessel headed to the Spanish Canary Islands and health officials scrambled to map the outbreak of the potentially deadly human-to-human strain.

The fate of the Hondius sparked international alarm after three people travelling on it died, though health

officials have played down fears of a wider global outbreak from the ratborne virus, which is less contagious than Covid-19.

A Dutch couple who had travelled around South America before boarding the ship in Ushuaia, Argentina on April 1 were the first fatalities.

Argentine health authorities said Thursday they had not yet been able to establish where the outbreak began.

“With the information provided so far by the countries involved and participating national agencies, it is not possible to confirm the origin of the infection,” the health ministry said after a meeting with authorities

from all 24 Argentine provinces.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told journalists in Geneva that five confirmed and three suspected cases had been reported overall, including the three deaths.

“Given the incubation period of the Andes virus, which can be up to six weeks, it’s possible that more cases may be reported,” he said, referring to the rare strain detected aboard the Hondius, which can be transmitted between humans.

The Leiden University Medical Centre in the Netherlands later announced another patient had tested positive. AFP

LONDON—Polls closed across England, Scotland and Wales late Thursday, with beleaguered Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his Conservative rivals both braced for heavy losses as voters swerve to hard-right and left-wing populists.

Polling stations shut their doors at 10:00 pm, as Starmer faced the biggest electoral test since his July 2024 general election landslide victory over the Conservatives.

Opinion polls predict grim results for center-left Labor, which could amplify calls for the 63-year-old British leader to resign or face a long-rumored party leadership challenge.

The prime minister and his wife voted at a polling station near parliament in Westminster.

IN BRIEF

AFP

Israeli raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the north of the occupied West Bank, CPJ said. AFP

KL plans cloud seeding for drought-hit ‘rice bowl’ KUALA LUMPUR—Malaysia is resorting to cloud seeding to bring much-needed rain to the country’s “rice bowl” north, where a drought has delayed planting of the staple crop and raised supply fears.

“This year... has been affected by prolonged dry weather, low rainfall and reduced dam water levels,” the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Malaysia, Mohamad Sabu, told AFP. The conditions mean farmers have missed two of the three usual planting phases for so-called “wet direct seeding” of rice, a technique that requires fields to be

Nigel Farage’s anti-immigrant Reform UK and the left-wing Greens, led by self-described eco-populist Zack Polanski, are expected to benefit from widespread disillusionment.

“This election will cement Reform’s position as the dominant force now in British politics,” the party’s home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf told AFP at an election night watch party buzzing with optimism. The first results, from contests in England, were expected in the early hours of Friday but most will not come until later in the day. Melanie Garson, University College London associate professor of politics, said the vote was a “huge barometer for how the country is feeling about this political establishment.” AFP

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AFP) --

The IOC on Thursday lifted its ban on Belarusian athletes competing in the Olympics, although restrictions on Russian athletes remain in place.

Competitors from Russia and their allies Belarus had been banned from international competition following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, although some were permitted to compete as neutrals. Russians will still only be able to compete in Olympic competition under the neutral banner, on an individ-

Trump says he won’t pay $1,000 to watch US at World Cup

NEW YORK—President Donald Trump said in an interview published Thursday that he would not pay the $1,000-plus ticket price for the United States’ first World Cup match, piling pressure on FIFA over its sky-high costs.

“I did not know that number,” the billionaire Trump told the New York Post, adding “I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn’t pay it either, to be honest with you.”

US lawmakers and international fan groups have slammed FIFA over its pricing structure for the tournament that kicks off in June, with Football Supporters Europe branding it a “monumental betrayal.”

Trump appeared concerned that lower-income Americans -- a key voting bloc for him -- would be priced out of attending the World Cup.

“If people from Queens and Brooklyn and all of the people that love Donald Trump can’t go, I would be disappointed, but, you know, at the same time, it’s an amazing success.”

“I would like to be able to have the people that voted for me to be able to go,” added Trump, who takes credit for securing the World Cup for the United States during his first term as president.

Trump is close to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who on Tuesday insisted the governing body was obliged to take advantage of US laws that allow tickets to be resold for thousands of dollars above face value. He said that FIFA received over 500 million ticket requests for 2026, compared with fewer than 50 million combined for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. AFP

IOC lifts ban on Belarus, but Russia still suspended

ual basis, and only if they have not actively supported the conflict.

The IOC executive board released a statement saying that it “no longer recommends any restrictions on the participation of Belarusian athletes, including teams”.

“The IOC reaffirms that athletes’ participation in international com-

petition should not be limited by the actions of their governments, including involvement in a war or conflict,” it said.

This new policy should allow for a Belarusian delegation to compete at the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in 2028, when they will be present at the opening ceremony and included

in the medals table.

The IOC said that the timing of the statement recognised that the qualification period for the 2028 Games begins this (northern hemisphere) summer.

“On behalf of the entire Belarusian sporting public, we express our gratitude to IOC President Kirsty Coventry for her balanced and principled

stance,” said the Belarusian Olympic Committee.

“We are firmly convinced that sport is called to serve as a unifying force and must remain an arena free from political influence,” said the statement adding that Belarus hoped the decision “will become a defining benchmark for international sports federations, which will, in the shortest possible time, lift all restrictions on Belarusian athletes in all sports.”

Some Olympic sports, such as judo and swimming, have already lifted restrictions but Belarus are still unlikely to be able to compete as a team in track and field after World Athletics said in response to the IOC announcement that it was keeping its ban in place.

“As a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, World Athletics sanctions implemented in March 2022 excluding Belarusian and Russian athletes, officials and supporting personnel from competition remain in place,” said a World Athletics spokesperson.

“Our council has made a clear decision that when there is tangible movement towards peace negotiations it can begin to review its decisions. We all hope this will be soon.”

‘In good standing’

At the last two Olympics in Paris 2024 and the Milan-Cortina Winter Games in February, Belarusians competed alongside Russians as “Individual Neutral Athletes”, stripped of their national colours and in small numbers -- there were 17 in Paris and seven in Italy.

And for the moment that will remain the case for Russian athletes wanting to take part in Los Angeles.

“The situation relating to the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) is different from that relating to the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Belarus,” said the IOC in their statement. AFP

Star-studded opening night for Liga Baseball PH

LIGA Baseball Philippines will open its second season in spectacular fashion as prominent celebrities in the country graces its star-studded ceremony at the Felino Marcelino Baseball Stadium slated on May 23 in Taguig City.

After last year’s maiden edition, the league’s leadership is presenting a different kind of baseball spectacle in the opening rites and first pitch all the way to the championship, where top club, collegiate, and commercial teams are expected to show their wares in an effort to capture the prestigious title of the league patterned after the legendary Manila Bay Baseball League of the 1960s.

Billed as the 2026 LMP “Celebrity Cup,” the league will formally open for the first time at night, with bright lights and the spotlight centered on the diamond’s real stars, celebrity guests, aficionados, and enthusiasts, adding excitement to the muchanticipated ceremony to be held at the state-of-the-art Taguig venue in lieu of the historic Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila,

where refurbishing and renovation are in progress.

“It will be a grand night of celebrities in the opening ceremony, where the rich and famous from sports, showbiz, business, and public service, who

are enthusiastic in supporting the real stars of the tournament, the baseball players themselves,” LBP Chairman Wopsy Zamora said. “So it’s all roads to Taguig’s Marcelino Diamond to witness the grand night opening and the

night games ahead.”

The LBP Season 2 “Celebrity Cup” was organized in a joint effort, led by Zamora, president Jose Pepe Muñoz, Director General Ping Remollo, Commissioner Mike Zialcita, and notable directors Ricky Palou, Anthony Suntay, Raymond Tolentino, Nats Faustino, Revo Saguisag, among others.

“LBP players, who are stars in their own right, and their mother teams will be packing their bags to head off for the next edition of Liga Baseball Philippines returning into action. Highstakes, best-on-best competitions will captivate the baseball community once again,” Muñoz added. The reigning three-peat UAAP champion NU Bulldogs will go for another milestone in the LBP, along with archrival DLSU Green Batters. Katayama Baseball Academy of Japanese and national Philippine-based team owner Keiji Katayama, Muralla Dawgs, Taguig IX, Ateneo, UST, and the Philippine Air Force are also shooting for their first-ever LBP crown this coming season.

PVL, Spikers’ Turf’s best to be honored at Awards Night

VOLLEYBALL’S best will be given the spotlight as top performers from the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and Spikers’ Turf will be honored in the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night slated on May 30, Saturday.

Happening at the Novotel Manila Araneta City in the heart of Cubao, print and online scribes covering the leagues organized by Sports Vision will recognize players, coaches, teams, and executives who have shown the way in the recent PVL and Spikers’ Turf seasons.

New trophy designs made by Mark Ron Castañeda mark a new era for the annual awards night, also supported

University of the Philippines captures 9th PUBL crown

By Graham C. Lim

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines

emerged victorious in the national UPqualifying tournament of the 9th Philippine University Basketball League, securing its place in the 22nd ASEAN University Games (AUG) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, after defeating De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, 100–94, at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Gym in Manila recently.

FESSAP president Edwin C. Fabro and the Philippines’ Head of Delegation Mary G. Ng extended their congratulations to UP.

They expressed confidence in the team as it prepares to compete in the

men’s basketball event of the 22nd AUG, scheduled from December 10 to 19, 2026.

The Philippines enters the tournament as the defending champion, a title earned by Mapua University, which represented the country in the 2024 AUG in Surabaya, Indonesia. Earlier, PUP secured qualification in women’s basketball. In volleyball, National University clinched the 4th Philippine University Volleyball League (PUVL) men’s title and will likewise represent the Philippines in the AUG. In the women’s volleyball division, College of Saint Benilde captured the 4th PUVL Women’s Volleyball Championship at TUP-

Manila gym and will also see action in Kuala Lumpur.

Fabro reaffirmed the appointment of Ng as the Philippines’ Head of Delegation to the 22nd AUG, with Philippine Airlines Director David Ong, serving as the Assistant to the Philippines’ Head of Delegation.

Ng is the president of the Philippine Inter-School Sport Association, a regular member of the International School Sport Federation. FESSAP chairman Alvin Tai Lian and Fabro are the honorary Philippines’ Heads of Delegation to the 22nd ASEAN University Games 2026. The successful staging of the FESSAP National Qualifying Champi-

by Immuni+, with major awardees set to receive an Oscars-esque trophy featuring a figure in spiking motion to represent the athletic prowess and skill they have displayed in the game of volleyball. Meanwhile, special awardees will be honored with a trophy flanked by a golden ball, recognizing their invaluable performance and contribution to their team’s success.

Season MVPs for both the PVL and Spikers’ Turf highlight the formal awards rite.

Members of the Mythical Team will also be feted alongside top honors like Team of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year.

The most heart-stopping match of the season will be recognized with the Pilipinas Live Game of the Year Award. Other citations include Rookie of the Year, Comeback Player of the Year Award, Miss Quality Minutes, Most Improved Player, and the Fair Play Award.

A Star of the Night recognition will also be awarded for the best-dressed awardee.

Members of the Alas Pilipinas beach volleyball team will also get their spotlight with a special recognition for their historic gold medal at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok.

SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Eala gets back at Wang, breaks 2nd-round course on clay

By Jeremiah Sevilla

ALEXANDRA Eala finally broke her second-round curse on clay court this season.

The Filipina tennis star hacked out a vengeful 6-4, 6-3 win against Chinese Wang Xinyu in the Round of 64 of the Italian Open 2026 on Friday at the Pietrangeli Stadium inside the Foro Italico Sports Complex in Rome.

World No. 42 Eala hurdled a lethargic start and banked on her solid return game to boot the No. 33 Wang out of the WTA 1000 tournament.

Eala secured at least €46,080 or P3.2 million to go with 65 rankings as she entered the third round this time after falling short in her first three clay tourneys last month.

The Rafa Nadal Academy graduate also avenged her 5-7, 7-5, 4-6 semifinal loss to Wang in the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand last January.

Going into the match with an old score to settle, Eala erased a 0-3 deficit as she unleashed fiery returns to elicit errors from Wang and snatch a 4-3 lead in the opening set.

After Wang knotted a 4-4 tie, Eala kept her composure to take two straight games and close out the first frame in 39 minutes.

Eala continued pouncing on the errorprone Wang in the second set, converting four consecutive games off a 2-3 disadvantage to complete her redemption.

The Pinay lefty set up the rematch with the 31st seed Chinese after taking down Polish Magdalena Frech, 6-0, 3-6, 6-4, in the opening Round of 128 last Wednesday.

By Nissi Icasiano

BEFORE sunrise breaks across the metro, Erika Ting-Dee is already awake and moving through another demanding day. Breakfast has to be prepared. School bags need to be checked. Her two sons, Tristan and Thomas, have to be brought to school before she heads to work herself. By the time most people are only beginning their morning, Erika has already stepped into multiple roles that define her life. She is a mother, a wife, a marketing specialist, and, perhaps most unexpectedly, an athlete. Her life, as she describes it, is “beautifully chaotic.”

Yet amid the endless motion, Erika has discovered something many women struggle to hold onto after motherhood: herself.

“I wear a lot of hats, and some days I wear them all at once,” Erika stated.

“But I’ve stopped trying to separate those identities. They all feed each other. Being a mother makes me a more purposeful athlete. Being an athlete makes me a more grounded mother.” For Erika, fitness is no longer just a hobby or a passion project. It has become part of the structure that helps her survive the emotional and physical demands of everyday life.

More than physical strength

Long before she became a mother, Erika trained simply because she loved movement and competition. That changed after having children.

“Before kids, I trained because I enjoyed it,” she said. “After kids, I train because I need it. For my mental health, my energy, my patience. Wellness stopped being about how I looked and became about how I function. I want to be strong and present for my family, and fitness is a big part of how I maintain that.”

On most days, her routine moves at a relentless pace. After dropping off her children at school, Erika heads straight into training sessions that range from strength work to long-distance runs under the Manila heat.

Dane Daniel delivers his ‘biggest win ever’

By Riera U. Mallari

ANDON CITY (Powered by PLDT Home) — For Daniel Guld of CCN Factory Team, the finish line in Candon was the end of a threeyear wait.

The Danish rider, racing here on loan from the 7-Eleven Team, described his victory in Stage 9 of the MPTC Tour of Luzon as the most meaningful of his career, his first since winning a stage in Japan three years ago.

“It’s probably my biggest win ever,” Guld said, smiling, revealing a chipped tooth, clipped by a wayward small stone during a ride in China three weeks ago.

“I’ll never forget this stage.”

As the road tilted upward in the final approach to Candon City Arena, Guld unleashed a perfectly measured burst over the last 100 meters of the climb, overtaking Team Pangasinan’s Benedict Soriano and Daniel Jay Fariñas to complete the 137.6-kilometer ride from Laoag in 3 hours, 13 minutes and 2 seconds.

“I knew that kind of finish was for me,” Guld said. “Short, steep climbs, that’s where I’m comfortable. I just waited and gave everything I had left.”

A seven-man breakaway had escaped with a sizeable lead entering the final 30 kilometers, forcing the peloton led by overall leader Nikita Shulchenko of LCW UAE Cycle to mount a late chase.

Inside the final kilometer, a wrong turn by several riders in the break splintered the group and handed Guld and the Pangasinan duo a crucial advantage they would not waste.

Soriano and Fariñas finished with the same time as Guld, while 7-Eleven’s Ronnilan Quita, who had worked tirelessly to keep the break alive, settled for fourth after being among those who overshot the turn.

Twenty-three seconds later, the yellow jersey group

rolled in, enough for Shulchenko to preserve his overall lead at 26:01:59.

Teammate Yousef Ibraheim Alrefai remained second overall, 1:38 behind, while Mervin Corpuz of 7-Eleven held third at 4:15 off the pace. Quita’s effort lifted him to fourth overall at 4:19.

Also inside the top 10 of the general classification are Tyler Hannay (Excellent Noodles), Nash Lim (MPT Drive Hub), Antoine Huby (7-Eleven), Rustom Lim (MPT Drive Hub), Jung Woo Ho (Seoul Cycling Team), and Muhammad Raihan Maulidan (Ponti Wijaya) in the Tour co-presented by the Metro Pacific and Tollways Corp. and the Philippine Sports Commission, sanctioned by PhilCycling and supported by the MVP Group and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

Erika Ting-Dee redefines motherhood one run at a time

Some days are dedicated to recovery.

Others demand endurance. Every session, however, carries a purpose beyond aesthetics or competition.

The shift transformed the way she approached health and wellness. Fitness became her outlet, her coping mechanism, and her source of clarity amid the nonstop pace of motherhood.

Still, Erika admitted that balancing everything is never easy.

“Finding the hours to train is one thing, but the internal conversation about whether you should be using those hours differently is its own challenge,” she shared. “I’ve had to make peace with the fact that a healthy, happy mother is better for my kids than a burnt-out one who never takes a moment for herself.”

That honesty has become one of the most powerful parts of Erika’s story. Behind the race bibs, training sessions, and community events is a mother learning every day how to navigate guilt, exhaustion, and the pressure to constantly give. Creating a home through movement

Out of that journey came Repeat Daily, the fitness and movement community Erika founded with the philosophy of “Faith + Movement.”

Repeat Daily was never meant to become just another fitness group. Erika wanted to

create a space where people, especially women, could feel welcome regardless of where they were in their fitness journey.

“The culture,” Erika explained. “It’s not about who’s fastest or fittest. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and supporting the people next to you. Most groups here are focused on one sport. Us, it’s about movement.”

The community embraces what Erika calls the “boring consistency” of daily habits. Instead of quick fixes and punishment workouts, Repeat Daily focuses on sustainable wellness through lifting weights, walking, running, and prioritizing recovery.

Over time, the group became deeply involved in the local running and triathlon scene. Repeat Daily regularly organizes group runs, participates in half marathons and triathlons, and hosts collaborative women-centered events that encourage women to show up for themselves and for one another.

During weekend runs and community sessions, women from different walks of life gather not only to train, but also to share stories, struggles, and encouragement. For many members, Repeat Daily became more than a fitness community. It became a support system.

In many ways, Repeat Daily reflects Erika herself. It is resilient, welcoming, and built on consistency rather than perfection.

La Salle on brink of glory as NU fights for survival

DE LA SALLE University is eyeing its first perfect season in 22 years and a 13th UAAP women’s volleyball title today (Saturday) as it battles National University, which is seeking to force a Game 3 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The last four championship series since 2022 have ended in sweeps, and the Lady Spikers hope to extend that trend while ending the Lady Bulldogs’ two-year reign at 5 p.m.

After a slow start, La Salle showed the form that carried it to a 14-0 elimination sweep, posting a 25-23, 25-18, 25-18 win over NU in last Wednesday’s opener. It marked the first time during the Lady Bulldogs’ dynastic run that they lost in straight sets in a Finals match.

A win would also erase the lingering heartbreaks of 2014 for the Lady Spikers. La Salle also swept the eliminations that season, but Ateneo defied the odds to capture a breakthrough title in Season 76.

“Sabi ko ayoko nang maulit ’yon — every year naman sabi ko sa kanila kung sino ‘yung nagchampion, ’yon ‘yung paghahandaan namin. Ito na ‘yung situation. Ito na ‘yung pagkakataon na makabalik kami. Kaharap namin ang NU, so kailangan paghandaan. Hindi naman lahat nabibigyan ng opportunity na mag-Finals. Nauna tayo, kailangan pangatawanan natin ito,” Coach Ramil de Jesus said.

The architect of La Salle’s 12 titles said he is prepared for whatever adjustments former ward and first-year mentor Regine Diego may introduce, especially with the Lady Bulldogs now in desperation mode.

“Wala nang ibang gagawin; basta kami, kung ano ‘yung ginawa naming preparation, tuloy lang. Alam naman namin na ‘yung NU hindi nababago galaw nila matalo manalo iisa lang ‘yung galaw, beterano ‘yung setter and ‘yung mga spikers nandoon naman hindi masasabing mahina even ‘yung mga second stringers nila puwede mo gamitin malakas talaga. So talagang maganda ‘yung ipinakita ng NU pero mas ginusto ng mga bata,” De Jesus said.

cause that’s what love looks like in practice.”

That lesson became the same principle guiding her training, work, and leadership.

The support behind the strength

Despite her determination, Erika knows she would not be able to manage everything alone.

“What keeps it together is having nonnegotiables,” she asserted. “Family time is protected, my training doesn’t fully disappear, and I try to be honest when I’m stretched thin. My husband is a huge part of why this even works. Also, the team behind Repeat Daily makes everything easy.”

Her husband, Reinald, has become one of the strongest pillars behind her journey.

“He’s everything,” Erika acknowledged. “I genuinely don’t think my races, triathlons, community, or any of this would be possible without his support. He’s not just supportive in words. He actually shows up, takes things off my plate, and believes in what I’m doing even when I doubt myself.”

Behind Erika’s accomplishments is a partnership built on trust, sacrifice, and understanding. While she carries many responsibilities, she does not carry them alone. Motherhood as the ultimate lesson Motherhood changed more than Erika’s routine. It changed the way she measured strength.

“Motherhood taught me that consistency doesn’t require perfection,” she said. “You show up even when you’re tired, even when it’s hard, even when nobody’s watching, be-

“Small, repeated actions compound into something meaningful,” Erika reflected.

For Erika, motherhood is relentless, humbling, and magnificent all at once. Despite the sacrifices and exhaustion, she would not trade it for anything in the world.

Even Mother’s Day itself has taken on a deeper meaning for her.

“Mother’s Day is a moment to pause and appreciate everything, and to feel grateful for the two little people who made me a mom,” she stated. “It doesn’t matter where we are or what we do.” Redefining what mothers can become

At the center of Erika’s story is a message many mothers need to hear. Women do not have to lose themselves in order to love their families fully.

“I think women neglect it because they’ve been conditioned to believe that putting themselves first is selfish,” she reasoned. “It’s not. You cannot pour from an empty cup. That’s not a cliché. It’s a biological reality.” That belief continues to shape the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

“Early on, it was personal achievement. Times, distances, results,” she pointed out. “Now it’s legacy. I want my kids to grow up knowing their mom was someone who showed up, who built things, who never stopped growing.”

If there is one thing Erika hopes people remember about her, it is not the races she completed or the milestones she achieved. She hopes to be remembered as someone who made people believe they could become more.

Her message to fellow mothers remains simple but powerful.

“You don’t have to choose between being a devoted mother and being a whole person,” Erika said. “In fact, your children need to see you as a whole person. Chase what lights you up. Take care of your body. Build something you’re proud of. Not instead of your family, but for them and for yourself.” Every morning, Erika runs, lifts, trains, leads, and perseveres for something bigger than personal achievement. And somewhere between motherhood and movement, she is quietly redefining what strength truly looks like.

P109 billion

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Philippine gross international reserves dropped to a 15-month low of $104.13 billion in April 2026 as foreign investments weakened and foreign exchange holdings declined, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.

Preliminary data indicated that reserves fell 1.12 percent from $105.31 billion

PEZA reports 72% rise in investment approvals

$2.60 billion

Expected exports of new projects

16,117 4-month investment pledges

Jobs expected from new projects

By Othel V. Campos

INVESTMENT approvals surged 72.27 percent in the first four months of 2026 to P109.42 billion from a year ago on the back of a record-breaking performance in April, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said.

PEZA said during its board meeting on April 23, 2026 it approved 26 new and expansion projects worth P63.9 billion. This monthly figure reflects a 1,296.65-percent increase over the P4.575 billion recorded in April 2025.

PEZA director-general Tereso Panga attributed the growth to the entry of large-scale, “big-ticket” projects, which accounted for P60 billion of the month’s total.

Approvals in April included two EMS-SMS companies, a tourism

development expansion in Baguio, Clark and Cebu, a facilities enterprise in Iloilo and an ecozone development venture in Tarlac.

The surge in capital is expected to yield substantial economic returns, it said. Projects approved in April alone are projected to generate $1.69 billion in exports, a 385.44-percent year-onyear increase, and create 7,621 direct jobs.

It said that for the January-toApril period, total projected exports

CRUISE PASSENGERS.

PH, Vietnam sign deal for 1.5 million tons of rice

THE Philippines and Vietnam signed a new rice supply agreement on Thursday during high-level bilateral talks on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Cebu City, as Manila moves to secure stable imports amid rising global uncertainties.

Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the Philippines secured a one-year agreement for the supply of 1.5 million metric tons of rice from Vietnam, ensuring uninterrupted shipments through April 2027. The deal helps stabilize the domestic market against geopolitical risks and climate-related production threats.

“Securing import volumes until next April is crucial amid geopolitical uncertainties and climate risks,” Tiu Laurel said, noting that stable supply is essential to keeping rice prices manageable in the domestic market.

Both sides finalized pricing and logistics arrangements and agreed on a benchmark price of $450 per metric ton for the widely consumed DT8 rice variety. Vietnam remains the Philippines’ largest rice supplier and accounts for the bulk of the

country’s imported grain requirements.

Tiu Laurel said Manila is prioritizing reliable supply channels as regional demand continues to rise, fueled partly by tensions in the Middle East and concerns over possible production disruptions from another El Niño episode. He added that Vietnam seeks a long-term trade framework covering rice and other agricultural commodities.

“Even the Vietnamese prime minister consistently highlighted this during the bilateral meeting,” Tiu Laurel said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vietnam Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng pushed the deal during the latter’s first ASEAN Summit appearance in Cebu.

The two leaders also commemorated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the 2 countries while discussing expanded cooperation in trade, tourism, agriculture and investment.

While negotiations centered on rice, officials said the agreement could pave the way for expanded agricultural cooperation between the two Southeast Asian neighbors. Othel V. Campos

reached $2.60 billion, with 16,117 new jobs expected nationwide. Manufacturing remains the backbone of the agency’s portfolio, leading all sectors with 42 projects year-to-date. This was followed by 19 ecozone development projects and 12 IT-BPM ventures.

Luzon continues to dominate the investment landscape with 86 projects, led by Region IV-A as the primary hub.

The agency noted steady activity in the Visayas with 15 projects and an emerging presence in Mindanao with 3 projects as part of its push for balanced regional development. A diversified global base supported the investment momentum, with firms from the Netherlands, South Korea, Indonesia, Japan and Taiwan leading the influx of capital.

The reserve position in the International Monetary Fund rose 1.30 percent to $723.6 million. Special drawing rights also increased 1.29 percent to $3.96 billion in April. The BSP said the April reserve level provides a robust external liquidity buffer worth 6.9 months of imports of goods, service payments and primary income.

The amount also covers about 3.8 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity. Analysts generally consider foreign reserves adequate if they can finance at least three months of imports.

“Reserves may remain under pressure if oil prices stay elevated and global financial conditions remain volatile,” Rivera said.

MinDA seeks $174.6b for 265 priority projects

By Othel V. Campos

THE Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said Friday it is seeking to mobilize funding for 265 priority infrastructure projects in Mindanao and the broader Brunei Darussalam-IndonesiaMalaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMPEAGA), with total investment requirements estimated at $174.6 billion.

During a press briefing at the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit in Cebu, MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said the massive funding requirement mirrors the re-

gion’s growing infrastructure ambitions and the need to accelerate development in underserved areas.

“The 265 priority infrastructure projects that have been identified carry an estimated investment requirement of $174.6 billion,” Magno said.

He said the value of the projects marked a significant increase from previous years, noting the current pipeline represents “a jump of four times in value since 2015, and eight times in the number of priority infrastructure projects.”

Magno acknowledged the challenge of securing financing but said MinDA is actively pursuing alternative strategies, particularly through public-private partnerships (PPP). MinDA serves as the permanent coordinating office for BIMPEAGA, leading the country’s participation in the subregional economic cooperation bloc.

On the domestic front, Magno said MinDA recently signed an agreement with

Fisheries output declined 15.3% in first quarter

THE Philippines’ fisheries production fell 15.3 percent in the first quarter of 2026 to 856,290 metric tons from 1.01 million metric tons a year ago, dragged by declines in aquaculture and municipal fisheries, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Data showed output contractions in aquaculture, marine municipal fisheries, and inland municipal fisheries from January to March, while commercial fisheries posted growth.

Aquaculture, which accounted for the largest share of total production at 50.5 percent, declined 24.5 percent to 432,760 metric tons from 573,280 metric tons in the same quarter last year.

the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to scale up efforts for the railway project, parts of which have already undergone feasibility studies. While the project has faced hurdles, the agreement with the DOTr is expected to bring in private partners.

Marine municipal fisheries production dropped 15.5 percent to 168,020 metric tons, contributing 19.6 percent to the total output. Inland municipal fisheries production also fell 4.5 percent to 50,280 metric tons. Commercial fisheries emerged as the lone bright spot, with output increasing 10.4 percent to 205,230 metric tons from 185,930 metric tons in the first quarter of 2025. This sector accounted for 24 percent of the total fisheries production during the quarter.

Among the country’s 21 major fishery species, the PSA reported steep declines in seaweed output, which contracted 34 percent year over year. Production of big-eyed scad, or matangbaka, declined 24.9 percent, while skipjack, or gulyasan, fell 8.7 percent and bali sardinella, or tamban, decreased 12.1 percent. Meanwhile, output gains were recorded for roundscad, or galunggong, which spiked 48.6 percent, and fimbriated sardines, or tunsoy, which rose 44.7 percent during the quarter. Othel V. Campos

SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

ERC suspends green energy levy

DOE keeps new coal plant ban despite regional energy concerns

THE Department of Energy (DOE) said Friday the national moratorium on new coal-fired power plants remains in effect and will not be lifted, despite mounting calls to authorize new developments following the Middle East crisis.

The department said in a statement it sees no compelling need to suspend the policy at present. It said coal-fired plants already under development and expected to come online are projected to provide sufficient capacity to support grid reliability in the near term.

While a clarification issued in October 2025 specified that exemptions could be made during energy shortages that threaten severe regional impacts, officials said the policy first imposed in December 2020 continues to be fully enforced. Under the current rules, no new coal power projects may secure department endorsements. However, projects already granted certificates of noncoverage may proceed. In line with a December 2020 advisory, projects categorized as committed for expansion or indicative projects with substantial accomplishments may apply for noncoverage.

The department defined the scope of the moratorium to include specific exceptions for projects serving off-grid or island areas, facilities dedicated to mining and processing critical minerals, own-use projects within economic zones and on-grid projects deemed necessary to avert an imminent power supply crisis.

Accelerating renewable energy remains a central pillar of the longterm national strategy, according to the agency.

The DOE said it is also reviewing indicative coal projects proposed prior to the moratorium to identify developments that may no longer be feasible.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered the temporary suspension of the Green Energy Auction Allowance (GEA-All) for the May and June 2026 billing period to ease the financial burden on consumers amid rising inflation and global economic pressures.

The commission said in an advisory that the collection of the GEA-All rate equivalent to P0.0371 per kilowatt hour will be halted nationwide for all electricity consumers during the covered months.

The suspension applies to all collection agents, including distribution utilities, retail electricity suppliers and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines.

The regulator said it reached the decision after evaluating the GEA-All Fund, which maintained a balance of about P466.49 million as of May 5, 2026. The commission assessed that the existing fund remains sufficient to cover projected payments for eligible renewable energy developers during the suspension period, even with the

expected addition of more facilities by June 2026.

ERC chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan said the measure reflects the commitment of the commission to balancing support for renewable energy with consumer protection during economic strain.

“While the ERC remains fully committed to supporting the country’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, we also recognize the immediate challenges being faced by Filipino households due to rising prices and global uncertainties. This temporary suspension of the GEA-All collection is intended to provide additional relief to consumers while ensuring that renewable energy developers continue to receive the support provided under existing policies,” Juan said. Juan said the regulator continues to monitor the power sector and implement measures that promote consumer welfare and long-term energy security. “The commission will continue to ensure that policies promoting renewable energy remain fair, transparent, and sustainable. At the same time, we are committed to implementing practical interventions that can help cushion consumers from sudden increases in electricity-related costs,” Juan said. The agency said the suspension will not affect the implementation of government renewable energy programs or commitments under the Green Energy Auction Program. The GEA-All serves as the primary mechanism to support payments to developers participating in the program.

Megaworld unit slates P11b in project turnovers as provincial demand rises

By Jenniffer B. Austria

GLOBAL-ESTATE Resorts Inc.

(GERI) is accelerating its provincial expansion with more than P11 billion worth of residential and commercial project turnovers scheduled this year, the company said Friday.

Mae S. Flores

The agency is also assessing the performance of existing coal plants to protect consumer interests, particularly those that are aging, inefficient or prone to unplanned outages. Facilities found to be unreliable may be considered for voluntary retirement, repurposing or a transition to cleaner energy sources. Alena

The tourism estate arm of Megaworld Corp. is targeting key growth areas outside Metro Manila, citing sustained demand for integrated township developments in

IN BRIEF

ABS-CBN slams director’s SEC complaint

ABS-CBN Corp. said Friday that a reported complaint filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by one of its own directors is an unfair and uncalled for public attack on employees working to stabilize the company. The media network issued the statement after the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) sought clarification on news reports of a legal filing by lawyers representing ABS-CBN director Federico “Piki” Lopez. The company said the move is a disruption to its ongoing efforts to return to solid financial footing following the loss of its broadcast franchise.

ABS-CBN said its board of directors has consistently commended the team for sacrifices made to keep the company afloat and there have been no recorded objections to these commendations, the company said.

“Instead of publicly calling out certain employees, and as a Director of the Company, Piki should just engage the Board in constructive discussion,” the company said.

“This public discussion is unfair to these employees and is uncalled for,” it said. The company said the majority of the Lopez family has already said their internal family disputes do not involve the corporation.

Top Line, V-Green team up for EV stations

TOP Line Business Development Corp. teamed up with Vietnamese firm V-Green Charging Stations Philippines Inc. to develop electric vehicle infrastructure in the Visayas, the companies announced on Friday. The collaboration between Top Line subsidiary Light Fuels Corp. and VGreen, an affiliate of VinFast, aims to transform the retail fuel network into a multienergy platform. The project will feature EV charging stations and batteryswapping hubs for VinFast e-scooters to support the increasing number of EV drivers in the region.

Top Line senior vice-president and chief operating officer Brigitte Carmel

Lapasaran Lim said the strategic move aims to make the core fuel business future-ready in the current energy landscape.

“We are optimistic of our partnership with V-Green aimed at capturing EV customers, addressing service gaps by providing a multienergy platform supporting both traditional fuels and electric mobility solutions,” Lim said.

Under a memorandum of understanding, the group will allocate space for the facilities across 6 Light Fuels service stations in Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu. The rollout includes locations at the Pier88 smart port and Bay Mall in Liloan. Alena Mae S. Flores

Globe Business, AAP to expedite AI adoption

GLOBE Business signed a two-year strategic partnership with the Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines (AAP) to help organizations integrate artificial intelligence into everyday operations and move beyond experimental phases.

The tie-up combines the digital infrastructure and connectivity of Globe Business with the policy advocacy and capability-building expertise of the AAP.

The groups aim to foster a responsible AI ecosystem that allows local enterprises to scale technology effectively while maintaining security and ethical standards.

Globe Business head and vice-president KD Dizon said AI holds significant promise for Philippine enterprises, though the primary challenge remains converting that potential into meaningful outcomes.

“Our partnership with AAP deepens our ongoing commitment to empowering Philippine enterprises to achieve intelligent transformation, turning AI potential into tangible, measurable business outcomes while driving innovation and sustainable digital growth,” Dizon said.

The agreement outlines several joint initiatives, including thought leadership programs and frameworks designed to operationalize AI under evolving governance standards. These intend to connect businesses with the specific expertise needed to implement automation and data science securely.

Darwin G. Amojelar

the provinces. GERI president Monica Salomon said buyers continue to seek residential developments and commercial spaces in these regions.

“This highlights the long-term value clients see in our integrated communities, which offer a seamless blend of nature, modern convenience and investment security,” Salomon said. The scheduled turnovers include residential units at The Lindgren and commercial lots at Arden Botanical Estate in Cavite, covering Trece

Martires and Tanza. In Laguna, the company will hand over housing units at The Hamptons Terraces and residential lots at The Hamptons Caliraya in Cavinti. It also plans to turn over residential lots at Eastland Heights in Antipolo, Rizal.

GERI is also preparing to deliver residential units in Southwoods City in Biñan, Laguna; Twin Lakes Manor and The Belvedere at Twin Lakes in Laurel, Batangas; and units at Boracay Newcoast in Malay, Aklan.

The company attributed the growth in provincial demand to buyers seeking communities that combine accessibility, open spaces and lifestyle amenities away from highly urbanized centers.

“We hope to continue capturing the growing real estate markets in the provinces,” Salomon said.

“By leveraging on the natural beauty of the locations where we are present, we envision our developments to be the most sought-after addresses for business and lifestyle beyond Metro Manila,” Salomon said.

CONGLOMERATE DMCI Holdings Inc. posted a 2-percent decline in first-quarter net income to P4.9 billion from P5 billion a year ago, as weaker energy results and a reduced stake in its water utility offset gains in other sectors.

The company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday that its diversified portfolio maintained stability despite uneven market conditions. Reduced contributions from its integrated energy business and water concessionaire Maynilad tempered growth in the firm’s property, mining and power units.

“Our diversified portfolio continued to provide stability despite uneven market conditions,” DMCI chairman and president Isidro Consunji said.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) inaugurated a dedicated lounge for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) at the Zamboanga International Airport to provide a comfortable space and essential services for workers traveling to and from the region.

The facility represents a broader effort to make Philippine airports more inclusive and responsive to the needs of migrant workers.

CAAP director-general Raul del Rosario said the lounge is intended to ensure OFWs feel valued and supported from the moment they arrive or depart.

The initiative aligns with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez to prioritize passenger-centered care and improve the travel experience for the country’s modern-day heroes.

The space serves as a functional hub where travelers can access information on Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) programs or process their Overseas Employment Certificates and OFW Passes. With a seating capacity of 20 people at a time, the lounge is designed for maximum convenience. It features amenities such as charging stations, air conditioning, comfortable seating and a television. The facility also provides free snacks, coffee and drinking water.

“While some businesses are facing near-term pressures, we continue to see encouraging performance from our business units,” he said.

Semirara Mining and Power Corp., the group’s largest earner, saw net income fall 13 percent to P2.2 billion from P2.5 billion on weaker plant performance and lower coal shipments.

Contribution from Maynilad also dropped 23 percent to P714 million from P926 million because the water utility’s initial public offering lowered the effective ownership of DMCI. Property developer DMCI Homes increased its contribution by 3 percent to P1.3 billion behind stronger residential revenues and higher rental income. Nickel producer DMCI Mining raised its contribution 8 percent to P440 million after its Palawan mine began commercial operations in March. Jenniffer B. Austria

THRU UNIFIED 911

BFP responds to more than just fire emergencies now

WHEN emergencies and disasters happen, every citizen with a cellphone is now part of the nationwide 911 emergency response network.

This is what Fire Superintendent Anthony Royo Arroyo, spokesperson and Chief, Public Information Service of the Bureau of Fire Protection, said regarding the unified 911 system that now accommodates cellular technology.

The Next Generation Advanced (NGA) technology launched in the country last September has changed the way emergency calls are placed from traditional landline-based systems to digital, IP-based networks. Upon full implementation, the infrastructure will seamlessly integrate responder’s smart devices into the nationwide system that enables not just voice calls, but also text, photo, and live video streaming.

According to Arroyo, the advanced technology has allowed BFP to suppress fires while they are still small and prevent them from turning into big disasters. Now that citizen vigilance can greatly help prevent the spread of fires, he requested the public to use their phones to first report fires to the BFP by calling 911 emergency hotline before posting fire videos on social media.

The BFP info chief also revealed that the system’s cutting-edge technology has enhanced the BFP’s emergency response

capabilities. “Now the bureau doesn’t just fight fires anymore. We now provide technical rescues, respond to medical emergencies and hazardous material incidents (CBRN) reported through the Unified Emergency Hotline 911.”

The BFP is now the lead responder for these cases because “information moves much faster from callers to our respond-

LEADING fiber broadband and technology provider

Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is accelerating the nationwide expansion of its customer service footprint, with the opening of new business centers in Bohol and Palawan—further reinforcing its commitment to deepen engagement in local communities and improve customer access to digital services. Upgraded hub to serve over 100,000 in Bohol In partnership with managed services provider J Fiber Internet Services, Converge has opened its upgraded business center at Lite Port Center in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. The enhanced customer hub is expected to serve more than 100,000 residents in the city and nearby towns, alongside the province’s growing business sector.

“The new, bigger, and better business center in Tagbilaran reflects Converge’s continued momentum,” said John Paul Aguilar, SVP and Officer-inCharge of the Consumer Business Group. “Guided by our founders’ vision to leave no one behind, we are strengthening our local presence to better understand customer needs and ensure reliable connectivity reaches every home.”

The launch was attended by J Fiber CEO Jonathan Uy, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, and Bohol First District Rep. John Gesnel Yap.

“We want to connect the whole of Bohol with Converge because this province has so much beauty to show the world. We are going to wire the entire province, as reliable connectivity is essential to support and grow industries such as BPO and tourism. In turn, this can help open more opportunities for Boholanos. And for us at J Fiber, we will strive to give the level of customer service that Boholanos deserve. This is just the start,” said J Fiber CEO Jonathan Uy.

ers”, according to Arroyo. “This is the impact of the technology provided by NGA 911 Philippines and the communication infrastructure provided by PLDT. Together with our trained personnel, they are the backbone of our 5-minute response goal that has already saved lives.”

Arroyo cited cases where the system proved to be life-saving. “A per-

son in Caloocan called 911 to help a person in distress in Makati. Because the system relayed the info so fast, we reached their friend in time and the incident became a life-saving Intervention. Another case in Bulacan used the system’s geo-tagging capabilities to find the exact location of a caller in distress.”

“Last Christmas, we rescued 14 people trapped on a ride in an amusement park in Pasay City. The system also proved vital during a series of disasters, particularly the Davao earthquake and recent typhoons in Cebu and Cagayan,” Arroyo added.

“We now also use an Emergency Directory to send information to responders even in the most remote areas. A DILG directive requires all emergency clusters to respond to 911 calls. This makes our work faster and more organized.”

He noted that having just one number to dial makes things so much easier for the public. “People don’t have to memorize long, multiple numbers for local fire or police stations. In an emergency, they just dial 911.”

Arroyo mentioned BFP upgrades in the works to meet the features of the new system. Pilot-testing for the use of state-of-the-art Push-To-Talk over cellular radios and body-worn cameras has been done. These devices provide real-time video and situational updates to help responders during fire and rescue operations. Dispatchers will undergo medical and basic life support training that will equip them to give first aid instructions over the phone until responders arrive. Additional fire stations with adequate personnel, fire trucks, and equipment will be built to meet the firefighting capability of the remaining 63 out of 1,642 cities and municipalities. Eleven command centers will be put up nationwide. More ambulances will be procured and more medical personnel will be trained to live up to the expanded role that the bureau now fulfills. Recently the BFP created a new unit called the BFP Emergency Response and Communications Services (BERCS) to manage E911 operations and oversee the regional and satellite command centers across the country. This will ensure that the bureau meets the standards set by the E911 Commission headed by the DILG, Arroyo said.

foodpanda PH ranks among Taguig’s top taxpayers in ‘25

SOLIDIFYING its legacy as one of Taguig City’s premier economic contributors, foodpanda Philippines has once again been honored among the city’s top taxpayers for 2025.

This achievement is bolstered by the standout performance of its core entities— Delivery Hero Philippines, Inc. and Delivery Hero Logistics Philippines, Inc.—both of which secured spots within the city’s top 30 alongside brands like GCash, Lazada, ByteDance, Ayala Corporation, Unilever, Aboitiz Group, and Procter & Gamble.

The recognition underscores foodpanda Philippines’ commitment to fiscal responsibility and its vital role in fueling public revenues.

This success is a testament to the collective effort of the entire ecosystem, including its ka-Panda riders, merchant partners, and loyal customers who use the platform everyday.

“Being recognized among Taguig’s elite top taxpayers after a year is a proud moment for us.” said Leopoldo De Castro, Finance Director of foodpanda Philippines. “It’s a powerful reminder of our responsibility as a platform that connects millions, and we remain steadfast in our mission to drive economic growth and give back to the communities we serve.”

Infinix NOTE 60 Ultra elevates smartphone design with Pininfarina partnership

THE wait is over. Infinix officially introduces the NOTE 60 Ultra in the Philippines, its most design forward and performance driven smartphone yet. Built to redefine what a flagship experience looks and feels like, the NOTE 60 Ultra combines cutting edge innovation with world class design craftsmanship. Available in four Italian inspired colorways, Torino Black, Monza Red, Amalfi Blue, and Roma Silver, each variant reflects a distinct personality, offering users a device that matches their unique expression.

A New Standard in Flagship Design

Elevating the NOTE series to new heights, the NOTE 60 Ultra features a premium design endorsed by the legendary design house Pininfarina. Known globally for its iconic automotive masterpieces, Pininfarina brings its signature curves, materials, and precision to this collaboration. This marks its first deep partnership with a smartphone brand in celebration of its 95th anniversary. The result is a device that exudes sophistication and performance, highlighted by a sleek metal

GLOBAL leader in access solutions Yale, under ASSA ABLOY Philippines, officially unveiled the future of connected living with the theme “Unlock Real Life Security. Upgrade to a Smart Yale Home.” at the Smart Yale Home Launch held last May 1 at True Value, Level 6, Shangri-La Plaza.

The in-store launch introduced a new generation of smart security solutions designed to simplify everyday life for Filipino homes.

Opening the program, Jonathan Kwong, ASSA ABLOY Philippines Director and General Manager, emphasized Yale’s enduring legacy and forward-looking vision.

“Since 1840, Yale has been protecting homes. From a small lock shop in Connecticut to being present in over 120 countries today, our foundation has always been built on trust, quality, and innovation,” he shared.

Kwong highlighted how security has evolved beyond physical

Unlock real life security: Upgrade to Smart Yale Home

The Smart Yale Home brought each product to life through real-world scenarios. Aya led a walkthrough of the booth, joined by actress, mom, lifestyle personality, and #MySmartYaleHome ambassador Isabel Oli-Prats, who experienced the space firsthand alongside #ThePratties family as they put the finishing touches on their new home. The walkthrough offered a relatable glimpse into how Yale’s smart security solutions seamlessly integrate into everyday living, reinforcing the brand’s vision of making connected, intuitive protection part of modern Filipino homes.

protection into a more connected, intuitive experience, adding that the launch represents “a smarter way of living that fits today’s lifestyle— bringing together convenience, control, and peace of mind.” True Value Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to bringing meaningful home solutions closer to Filipinos.

In her partner’s message, Cynthia Chavez, Assistant Vice President of True Value Philippines, noted that customers today are seeking more than just durability—they are looking for

GCASH joins ASEAN’s official partners to bring cashless convenience and financial inclusion at the heart of the largest ASEAN gathering in Cebu, the 48th ASEAN Summit.

GCash, the Philippines’ leading financial technology platform, is proud to support the 48th ASEAN Summit as an official partner to bring cashless convenience and financial inclusion at the region’s largest leadership gathering.

The 48th ASEAN Summit in LapuLapu City, Cebu is one of the highestlevel meetings of the regional bloc for the year, where heads of state from 11 member countries will come together to discuss and decide on key regional issues. “We are incredibly honored to be a huge part of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship. Our partnership with ASEAN provides us a chance to showcase Filipino innovation on the global stage and demonstrate how the Philippines is leading the charge toward a more integrated, digital ASEAN region,” GCash General Manager for GCash for Business Paul Albano said.

At the ASEAN’s Partners Pavillion featuring GCash-powered Cebuano micro-entrepreneurs

smart, practical upgrades that enhance everyday living.

“We’re proud to support Yale in this milestone. These innovations reflect where home security is going, and how we continue to grow with the needs of Filipino families,” she said, adding that Yale products are now available across True Value stores nationwide.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Smart Yale Home booth led by Jonathan Kwong, Aya Castillo, Product Marketing Manager of ASSA ABLOY Philippines, Cynthia

GCash brings cashless convenience, nancial inclusion to the heart of the region’s largest leadership gathering.

customer experience representatives to assist users and address inquiries in real time.

It will also highlight a range of GCash offerings, including lending and wealth management products, GCash for Business payment solutions and devices, as well as services tailored for overseas Filipinos.

Chavez, and Herco Trading Inc. President and CEO, Willy Co. More than a traditional product reveal, the installation offered a distinctly immersive and unconventional launch experience—transforming retail space into a fully realized smart home environment. Designed in the shape of a “Y,” the booth featured actual working doors and three interactive zones, each showcasing Yale’s latest innovations: the Yale Luna Elite+, Yale Uno, Yale YDL325 Series, and Yale Solis Safes. OPPO Find N6

The Yale Luna Elite+ takes center stage as Yale’s flagship smart lock, setting a new benchmark for modern home security. Blending advanced biometrics with refined, contemporary design, it is engineered not just as a security device but as a statement piece for the home. What makes the Luna Elite+ truly distinctive are its next-generation access features — FaceScan and PalmScan. Powered by 3D structured light technology, FaceScan enables fast, accurate, and touchless recognition in under a second, while PalmScan reads unique vein patterns through a simple gesture, offering a highly secure and almost impossible-to-replicate form of authentication. These features deliver a seamless, contactless entry experience that stands apart from conventional smart locks.

Beyond product demonstrations, the booth aims to boost MSME digitalization by onboarding new merchants to GCash for Business and showcasing how digital tools can help local enterprises grow and scale in an increasingly cashless economy.

“We are powering the MSME marketplace by bringing cashless payments to Cebuano microentrepreneurs. When a local vendor can accept a digital payment as easily as a major retailer, that is digital financial inclusion in practice,” Albano added.

“By supporting the MSME marketplace at the Pavilion and enabling cashless transactions for Cebuano micro-entrepreneurs, we are showing how digital financial inclusion creates tangible, real-world impact,” Albano added.

The booth, in addition, will feature on-site card printing and dedicated

At the Partners Pavillion, GCash is powering booths featuring Cebuano micro-entrepreneurs who are engaged in home décor, pastries and confections, handcrafted woven goods, chocolates, dairy and food items, and locally made souvenirs and artisan crafts. These include Adorno ‘72 Home Decors, Audrey’s Confectioneries, Dahlia Chocolates, Hinablon sa Cebu, Holicow, Island Souvenirs, Profoods, Rambie’s Collection, Tuburan, and Ver & Ver Handicrafts.

GCash will also join key side events at the summit to participate in discussions on digital transformation and advance wider access to financial services across the region.

The summit, with the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together” is being held this week in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines, as part of the country’s ASEAN chairmanship.

Mother’s Day gift guide: Picks for every kind of modern mom

THE hard part about Mother’s Day is not the giving. It is finding something that actually says: I was paying attention. Not just to the occasion, but to her — the way her days run, what she reaches for, what would genuinely make things easier or better. This year, Xiaomi’s Mother’s Day lineup is built around that idea: gifts that fit the life she is actually living. For the mom who runs everything: REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G She is already three conversations deep before breakfast, and her phone needs to keep up. The REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G was made for exactly that kind of day. The battery runs two days on a regular charge (6,500mAh silicon-carbon), and when it finally does need power, 100W fast charging brings it back in under an hour. The 200MP main camera has optical image stabilisation, which is the technology that keeps photos sharp when hands are not — so the birthday, the graduation, the Sunday lunch nobody planned to document all come out worth keeping. One phone for everything she carries in a day, for only P27,999. Her wellness era: Xiaomi Watch S4 She has started paying more attention to herself. A walk in the morning. Getting to bed earlier. Small, quiet intentions she is trying to make stick. The Xiaomi Watch S4 fits that without making a fuss about it. For just P7,799, it

looks like a proper watch — the kind she would wear to dinner or a meeting — not a fitness tracker with an identity crisis. It reads her heart rate through the day, keeps an eye on blood oxygen, and maps out her sleep at night by stage (light, deep, REM), so she wakes up knowing something more useful than just how many hours she got. Charge it once and forget about it for up to 15 days. It is the kind of gift that quietly does its job without demanding attention. Good food, less fuss: Xiaomi Smart Air Fryer 6.5L She knows what she wants to make. She just does not always have the hour it would normally take.

The Xiaomi Smart Air Fryer 6.5L runs hot and fast with up to 220°C with 360° circulating heat so chicken wings come out crisp, meats stay juicy inside, and the whole thing happens with little to no oil. Big enough to do a whole chicken in one go (6.5 liters), with 12 built-in cooking modes and over 100 recipes through the app, so she is not improvising temperatures at 7 pm on a Tuesday. When cooking finishes, it holds the food warm automatically. Dinner is done when she is ready, not when the fryer is, all for just P4,499. Give her the weekend back: Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X20

Say this part clearly when you give it: this is not a cleaning gift. It is a Saturday morning,

OPPO’s newest foldable smartphone, the Find N6—now available with Globe Postpaid. Designed for professionals who need power and flexibility, the Find N6 unfolds into a large 8.12inch display that makes multitasking seamless—from reviewing documents to running multiple apps at once. Powered by the

folds while maintaining its flat shape, and up to one million folds over time. The device also packs a 6,000mAh battery with fast charging for all-day use, alongside a 200MP Hasselblad camera system with 4K 120fps Dolby Vision recording for high-quality photos and videos on the go. Designed for real-life use, it comes with IP56 and IP59-rated dust and water resistance and is available in Stellar Titanium and Blossom Orange. With Globe Postpaid, customers gain access to a more premium mobile experience—combining reliable connectivity, curated plan options, and exclusive benefits that complement OPPO’s latest foldable. Available with Globe Postpaid: ● Globe GPlan 2499 (P73,600 cashout)

○ Includes 1-Year Extended Warranty

The OPPO Find N6 brings together innovation, performance, and

YouTube, and TikTok.

SHOWBIZ

THE Kapatid Network officially launched Star Worx, formerly MediaQuest Artists Agency, on Tuesday afternoon at the TV5 Center in Mandaluyong City, unveiling a new roster of emerging artists, including Marthena Jickain , daughter of actress Aiko Melendez

Speaking with Manila Standard Entertainment shortly after the launch, the 19-year-old showbiz scion said she is pursuing a career in show business independently of her mother’s influence.

“Of course, she’s my inspiration, but she did not influence my decision to be in showbiz, I only informed her when I finally became part of the list selected for Star Worx,” she admitted. “I grew up exposed to the industry, so it’s natural for me to like it. I want to showcase my talent and make people happy.”

Standing 5-foot-6, Marthena said she has also been encouraged to explore pageantry. But at this point, she wanted to focus first on acting.

“I see that a lot, especially when I appear on my mom’s socials,” she said. “We can’t tell what the future holds, but I’m keeping my options open.”

Marthen is studying Developmental Studies at Ateneo de Manila University, a

multidisciplinary program covering law, politics, and economics.

Her mom, in a separate interview, described her daughter as her “carbon copy,” adding she felt emotional seeing her take her own path in the industry.

“But she’s a better version.

Her eyes don’t even need contact lenses. I saw her earlier, and I got emotional because I’m so proud of her. It feels different when you see your own child stepping into her own journey,” she said.

Marthena is the daughter of Aiko and her former husband, Martin Jickain , a chef, model, and former Bodyshots contestant.

Joining Marthena were Adam Buck, Amo Wilding, Chan Martin, Nico Matugas, Patrick Ballesteros, Spencer Capistrano, Wayne Leonard, Carmela Lorzano, Celyn David, Kaitlyn King, Keisha Serna, Nathalie Apollo, Rahil Gatali, Selina Griffin, and Steph Razon

Heart Evangelista revisits relationship with ex-beau John Prats

SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Aiko Melendez’s daughter  Marthena Jickain officially dives into showbiz

They were introduced as part of Star Worx Block 1. Top executives from TV5 Network Inc. and MediaQuest Holdings attended the event, including president and CEO Guido R. Zaballero, MediaQuest Holdings president and CEO Victorico

“Ricky” P. Vargas , Star Worx head Jeff Remigio , consultant for entertainment content and creative strategy Enrico Santos, and star

builder Johnny “Mr. M” Manahan

The Star Worx said the agency began nearly two years ago with a small roster that has now expanded to more than 50 artists under the former MQAA banner.

“We started this journey back almost two years ago,” Remigio said during his speech. “We have signed more than 50 artists from MQAA. We’re very proud of our artists today.”

He added that the agency’s first signed talent, Cedrick Juan , has since appeared in the primetime series A Secret in Prague

Remigio said the rebranding was part of the group’s program, which will be unveiled in different phases.

“We needed to elevate. We needed to revolutionize. We needed to evolve,” he said before formally announcing the transition to Star Worx.

Mr. M, on the other hand, said his involvement with TV5 began through long-standing conversations with businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan

“I feel so comfortable here at TV5,” Manahan said. “It takes a lot of people to create artists’ work, make stars. You do the work, with a little bit of luck and help, they can become stars.”

Entertainment powerhouses team up to develop pageant queens into showbiz talents

ACTRESS and fashion maven Heart Evangelista is revisiting her past relationship with actor and concert director John Prats in an upcoming episode of her program Heart World, airing tonight in Heart World In the episode, Evangelista and Prats look back on their teenage romance, career milestones, and personal growth over the years. The conversation also touches on how both have moved forward in their individual lives and careers. The reunion takes a more personal turn as Evangelista shares an unexpected detail about her past role in introducing Prats to his now-wife,

and

ARNOLD Vegafria of ALV Talent Circuit and Viva Artists Agency, represented by Veronique R. Corpus and Vincent del Rosario, have formalized a partnership to expand opportunities for a new wave of talents transitioning from pageantry to entertainment.

The collaboration brings together two established talent management firms in the country, with VAA set to support ALV in developing 11 women poised to enter show business.

The roster includes Zia Ainhize Arboleda, Nikki Buenafe, Meridith Bobadilla, Beatriz Angela Ocampo, Tracy Maureen Perez, MJ Suarez, Carla Jane Torcido, Erika Marie Davis, Keylyn Pan Trajano, Alyssa Geronimo, and Margarette Briton Arboleda previously competed in Miss World Philippines 2026 after being crowned Miss World Philippines Laguna. She also works in modeling, singing, and visual arts. Buenafe, a Filipino-Iranian host and beauty queen, is the reigning Face of Beauty International titleholder after winning in Taiwan. She previously held titles including Limgas na Pangasinan, Miss Multinational Philippines 2024 and Face of Beauty Philippines 2025.

Bobadilla placed second runner-up at Miss Teen Earth International 2025 in India after earlier finishing first runner-up at Miss Teen International Philippines

Ocampo placed second runner-up at Miss Grand International Philippines 2025 and also works as a content creator, dancer and tourism advocate.

Perez, Miss World Philippines 2021, placed in the Top 12 at the Miss World competition in Puerto Rico

and continues advocacy work focused on single mothers through her project Para Kay Nanay: A Single Mother’s Journey Suarez has competed in several pageants, including Miss Grand Philippines 2025 and has appeared in television projects such as It’s Showtime Tadhana John en Ellen, and Unbreak My Heart

Torcido works as a model, singer, and content creator, winning Miss Grand Philippines Samar Island 2025 and Miss Fit Philippines Samar Island 2025.

Davis has appeared in multiple screen projects, including Bubble Gang, Zoomers, Unbreak My Heart and the film Deadly Chapter, while also working as a singer, actress, model, and host.

Trajano made history as the first trans woman to compete in female pageants in the Philippines and parts of Southeast Asia and the Middle East, finishing in the Top 12 of Universal Woman 2025. She also leads the Just Smile Charity Foundation, focusing on youth inclusion and empowerment.

Geronimo is a beauty queen, singer, model, and theater actress from Nueva Ecija who also works as a senior U.S. tax accountant and holds degrees in accountancy and accounting technology.

Briton, a mental health advocate and brand endorser, placed first runner-up at Miss Grand International Philippines 2025 representing Bicolandia.

The agencies said the partnership aims to broaden opportunities for pageant veterans transitioning into mainstream entertainment, strengthening their presence in television, film, and digital platforms.

SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

THERE’S something about S iargao t hat feels like a deep exhale. For me, it’s a destination that feels like a home away from home. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where the salt air resets your nervous system, and where creativity flows as freely as the coconut water.

My most recent visit carried an extra layer of excitement. I came to experience Isla Morena, a vibrant summer market event hosted by my beloved spot, Loka Siargao. None of this would exist without Michiko Mascariñas, the powerhouse owner of Love Brown and the main organizer of Isla Morena. Michiko has always embodied that effortless “vacay mode” energy, and Love Brown, her beach essential brand, has been spreading that vibe for eight years.

For their anniversary, she didn’t want a typical party. She wanted something that gave back to the community that raised her brand. So she dreamed up Isla Morena: a market that wasn’t just about selling but about connection, creativity, and creating opportunities for other local brands. Watching her float between booths, greeting merchants, solving problems, and still finding time to laugh by the beach was like watching a conductor lead a symphony. Michiko is proof that when you build with heart, people show up. And on that day at Loka, they showed up in droves.

Loka Siargao is where every day is an invitation to Live Large: eat well, drink freely, and soak in the energy of Siargao.

C4 LIFE

mango dessert). One Davao brand even built a new booth on the island just to join. That’s the level of heart here. What made Isla Morena unique this year? Location. The first event was in Manila, styled to feel tropical. But this time, it happened on an actual island. Everyone, sellers included, was in swimming attire. The beach was literally steps away. You could sell jewelry, then dip your toes in the ocean. It wasn’t just a market. It was work-life balance in its most real, sun-kissed form. More than a shopping event, Isla Morena felt like a movement of like-minded creatives building something meaningful while fully embracing island life.

Isla Morena finds its loka-tion:

A summer market dream in Siargao

It’s a social hub that fuses food, drinks, music, and retail all under one roof at Cloud 9 Beach. Picture this: the island’s most iconic surf break just steps away, plates of delicious local cuisine being passed around, cold drinks in hand, and a rotating soundtrack of good music filling the air. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a digital nomad, or part of a creative collective, Loka welcomes you into its vibrant, openarmed chaos. It’s not just a venue. It’s a lifestyle. And during Isla Morena, that lifestyle was turned all the way up.

Walking through Loka’s breezy grounds, I met an incredible lineup of merchants from across the Philippines.

From Manila came Love Brown (beach essentials), Messy Summers (matcha slow bar), Sommeil by Elysse, Clockwork Vintage Watches, Queen White self-care, Say Halo (halo-halo), Rumie

Jewelry, Resin and Flowers, Ardourela, and By Design Bags. From Davao: Kaia the Label, Gaga Gantsilyo (crochet bags), Louis Mireille Perfume, Ngisi Photobooth, and live artist Anakira Bohol sent Linked by Jill (macrame), Cebu brought Made by Filo (crochet fashion), and Siargao itself contributed Flower Mango by Ken (spicy

SM Hotels properties across the Philippines are offering dining experiences, staycation packages, and wellness activities for Mother’s Day celebrations this May.

Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Manila will host “A Table Set for Her” at Cyan Modern Kitchen on May 10, featuring lunch and dinner buffets priced at P3,600 nett per person. The hotel will also offer a complimentary floristry workshop for selected guests and a “Bloom Bar” with dried floral keepsakes.

Meanwhile, Conrad Manila has lined up several Mother’s Day promotions, including buffet offerings at Brasserie on 3, a dessert buffet called “Wonderland Reverie,” a lauriat feast at China Blue by Jereme Leung, and an Hermès-inspired afternoon tea at C Lounge.

“At Conrad Manila, we want every mother to feel deeply cherished, especially this Mother’s Day,” said Rupert Hallam general manager of Conrad Manila. Brasserie on 3 will offer complimentary buffet dining for mothers with every four full-paying guests

Loka Siargao stood at the center of it all. Isla Morena found its perfect loka-tion through the space’s vibrant energy and deep connection to the island community. The team embraced Michiko’s vision and helped shape it from the ground up, connecting her with suppliers, answering endless questions, and providing a venue that naturally matched their “Live Large” philosophy.

Loka is a collaborator, a believer, and the soul of this girly pop beach market. Coming back to Siargao, to Loka Siargao at Cloud 9 Beach, felt like returning to a family that always says, “Yes, let’s make magic happen.”