Manila Standard - 2026 May 12 - Tuesday

House impeaches VP Sara again

In 257-25 vote, solons move to transmit case to Senate

By Maricel V. Cruz and Katrina Manubay

LAWMAKERS voted on Monday by a wide margin to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, making her the first Philippine official to be impeached for a second time in a row and throwing her announced 2028 presidential run into doubt.

The motion was backed by 257 of 318 lawmakers yesterday, surpassing the required one-third vote threshold and exceeding the 240 votes that saw Duterte impeached last year.

Twenty-five lawmakers voted against sending the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate, while nine abstained.

Burden of proof

In a statement, Duterte’s defense spokesperson, Michael Poa, reaffirmed

the defense’s readiness to handle the trial once the Senate convenes into an impeachment court.

“We are aware of the action taken by the plenary and with that vote to transmit the Articles of Impeachment, the burden now rests on the accusers to substantiate their claims in accordance with the Constitution, the law, and rules on evidence,” Poa said.

“While questions of constitutional

Cayetano seizes Senate leadership from Sotto, but denies move to stop VP trial

By Ram Superable and Charles Dantes

SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano seized the Senate presidency Monday in a 139-2 vote that capped a high-tension day marked by a total building lockdown and the sudden reappearance of absentee senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

The leadership coup against then Senate President Tito Sotto III was staged by his colleagues aligned with detained for-

Senate takes Bato under its custody

By Ram Superable and Pot Chavez

mer President Rodrigo Duterte.

The takeover began when the chamber voted 13-10 to purge all leadership posts, successfully ousting Sotto from the position he held since late 2025. In his acceptance speech, Cayetano appealed to his fellow senators to work together despite differences in political affiliations and views.

“In the Senate, we might not like each other, but I think we can work

Interpol issues red notices for Bantag, Ang, Dumlao

By Vince Lopez

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced on Monday, May 11, that the Interpol has approved the country’s requests for the issuance of red notices against three high-profile personalities wanted by Philippine laws.

The DILG identified the three fugitives as. former Bureau of Corrections

By Ratziel San Juan

“THIS is the episode you’ve all been waiting for,” the controversial Peanut Gallery Media Network (PGMN) teased its supposed exposé on former House speaker Martin Romualdez, as it finally dropped the highly anticipated 109-minute

(BuCor) chief Gen. Gerald Bantag, gaming tycoon Charlie “Atong” Tiu Hay Ang, and former Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) official Rafael Dumlao III.

DILG Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla made the announcement during a press briefing in Valenzuela City.

In the same presser, Remulla said the red notice application on former law-

maker-turned fugitive, Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co has not yet been granted.

“As for Zaldy, it was filed in September 2025, his red notice has not been granted yet,” Remulla said.

He also said that he reprimanded the 200,000-strong PNP for failure to capture the fugitives who might have been still in the country.

“At our command conference, I

significance remain pending before the Supreme Court, we are fully prepared to defend the Vice President before the Senate sitting as an Impeachment Court, where it is incumbent upon the Prosecution to discharge the burden of proof,” he added. The Articles of Impeachment accuse the daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte of graft, corruption, bribery and an alleged assassination threat against former ally President Ferdinand Marcos.

Under the Constitution, an impeachment triggers a Senate trial. A guilty verdict there would see Duterte removed from office and barred from elected office for life.

‘We can’t conspire with silence’ Prior to the voting, House Commit-

tee on Justice chairperson Gerville Luistro said the impeachment proceedings against Duterte were rebuilt around process and evidence.

“This opportunity demands of us a simple thing: Let us obey the Constitution... Nothing more. Nothing less,” Luistro said in mixed Filipino and English.

“Our vote today is not just about one person. Our vote today is about the kind of Republic we want to pass on to the next generation: Whether responsibility will prevail—or fear. Whether truth will prevail—or noise. Whether the Constitution will prevail—or power.”

“We cannot pretend to be deaf. We should not be afraid. We cannot conspire with silence,” she added.

The approved articles of impeachment contain four major charges against the Vice President, including alleged misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, brib -

ery and grave threats tied to public statements against top government officials.

Article I deals with the alleged systematic misuse, misappropriation and irregular liquidation of P612.5 million in confidential funds under the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education which Duterte previously headed. The article cites the compressed disbursement of P125 million in late 2022, Commission on Audit disallowances, questionable liquidation reports, National Bureau of Investigation handwriting findings on acknowledgment receipts, Philippine Statistics Authority verification issues involving listed names, and the use of unauthorized intermediaries.

Article II concerns alleged unexplained wealth, SALN discrepancies, and continued business interests during Duterte’s vice presidency. It traces her declared

net worth from P7,250,497 in 2007 to P88,512,370.22 in 2024 against estimated salary earnings of about P30 million, and cites P6,771,227,712.95 in covered and suspicious transactions reflected in AMLC records involving Duterte and her spouse.

Article III involves alleged bribery and cash payments to DepEd officials, including allegations involving cash envelopes reportedly received by Gloria Jumamil-Mercado, Resty Osias and Runna Catalan.

Article IV pertains to the alleged assassination plot, grave threats, and inciting to sedition tied to Duterte’s public statements and related acts.

Central to the charge was her November 2024 video press conference where Duterte said she had contracted an assassin to kill the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former Speaker Martin Romualdez. With AFP

with each other and we can love each other,” he said.

The leadership shakeup unfolded as the House impeached Vice Duterte Sara Duterte, an issue that will eventually reach the Senate once the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted. Cayetano, however, denied the transition was driven by impeachment politics.

“There were reports saying the leadership change was about impeachment. It is not,” he said. “The impeachment will be much more than dismissing a complaint because of political affiliation, and much more than convicting someone without evidence. We need to be guided by the truth.”

He acknowledged that the Senate would eventually face major responsibilities once impeachment proceedings reach the chamber.

“The Senate is also on trial,” Cayetano said.

Senator Robin Padilla added: “To say that we will change the leadership of the Senate to prevent the impeachment court, that will not happen. There is no such option in the Constitution.”

slammed our policemen. I said there are 200,000 of you, why is it that finding just three people always fail? You’re great at it, right? That’s my direct, my exact words,” Remulla told the reporters. He also gave assurance that the socalled “rotten eggs” in the police organization would be kicked out to ensure the highest standards in the PNP. “Yes, it’s an imperfect organization. Although, okay, let me correct, 225,000 that, for the first time, they’re performing at standards unheard of for the PNP. There is still the rumor that I’m sure there are rotten eggs in there too. But we’re getting them too. It’s imperfect, it’s made of humans so the information is there, there’s always a breakdown,” he said.

“So, we will do our best to really get them, that’s what we know, many of them have already been imprisoned. All the rotten eggs involved in cases like EJK (extrajudicial killings). All of them, we’re already putting them behind bars or dismissing them from the service so don’t doubt our leniency or the delay in the pursuit of our determination. Do not doubt. We are determined to do it,” Remulla stressed.

That ‘best journalist’ in the country, as claimed by the network founder, needs to go back to school,” University of the Philippines journalism professor Danilo Arao posted on social media.

“This is a good case study on how NOT to practice journalism,” he added. Award-winning journalist Inday Espina-Varona similarly said the PGMN video merely rehashes existing information.

“17 minutes on, and no sight of an expose; just a hodgepodge of cribbed images and an anchor who seems to be auditioning for some pro-wrestling

schtick,” Espina-Varona posted.

“A 15-minute investigative report by real journalists would already have laid out a complete narrative arc with NEW, original findings and clear sourcing.

Not worth our time,” she added. Rappler multimedia reporter Dwight De Leon likewise shared his personal experience reporting on Romualdez, noting that the former speaker’s office communicates effectively.

“They answered my request for their side less than a day after I reached out. I was not framed for extortion and became the subject of an NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) entrapment operation. Or well, because we don’t extort in the first place,” De Leon posted in mixed Filipino and English.

lenge from Dela Rosa to personally witness any attempt to take him into custody.

to serve an alleged international arrest warrant against him.

Senator Rodante Marcoleta moved for the chamber to take custody of Dela Rosa to ensure his access to all legal protections and remedies available under the law.

The decision followed a reported lockdown of the Senate building after former senator Antonio Trillanes IV and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents allegedly pursued Dela Rosa through the Senate hallways and staircases.

Dela Rosa, who showed up at the chamber after a six-month absence, appeared emotional during the session and displayed bandaged fingers he claimed were injured during a scuffle while entering the building.

Newly installed Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano affirmed that the chamber would provide full protection to its member while adhering to established rules and Philippine statutes.

Trillanes, who appeared at the Senate flaunting a document, clarified that his presence was a response to a prior chal-

In a simultaneous legal move, lawyers for Dela Rosa filed a motion with the Supreme Court (SC) to block any potential arrest attempts by local or international authorities.

Dela Rosa’s lawyer Israelito Torreon questioned the validity of a subpoena from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the alleged International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant in the high court filing.

The senator’s legal team maintained that no arrest can be legally executed without a warrant or judgment issued specifically by a Philippine court.

Dela Rosa has sought SC protection amid reports of issuance of a warrant of arrest by the ICC.

The filing came following the announcement yesterday that a 10,000man DILG task force is being prepared following unverified reports of an impending ICC warrant.

In his 26-page manifestation filed on Monday, Dela Rosa is seeking for issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) to prohibit any possible arrest, detention, or surrender to the ICC without a valid Philippine judicial warrant.

“More importantly, it only took me 4 minutes to explain my story in video format; I didn’t waste 1 hour and 49 minutes of the public,” he added.

Veteran political journalist Christian Esguerra is also set to release on Monday evening a discussion with Arao and PressOnePH editor Ipe Salvosa on what Esguerra’s account described as an “underwhelming ‘exposé’” allegedly used to extort Romualdez.

Meanwhile, Hirro on Monday failed to appear before the NBI in connection with a subpoena issued against her.

The host’s lawyer, Lian Cacapit, said Hirro was “out of town.”

Cacapit, however, appeared before the NBI to request a copy of the subpoena, which Hirro’s camp allegedly

“This Urgent Manifestation is filed in light of fast-moving and gravely-dangerous developments that directly threaten the constitutional rights of Senator Ronald M. Dela Rosa and that implicate the Honorable Court’s supreme duty under Article VIII, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution to strike down executive acts committed with grave abuse of discretion,” the manifestation stated.

Meanwhile, Dela Rosa’s camp admitted that while it is unverified, officially acknowledged reports indicate that an ICC arrest warrant exists against him.

In a statement, lawyer Israelito Torreon’s law firm stressed that the High Court should act immediately “before it is too late.”

“We make this plea with full respect for the Honorable Supreme Court and for the institutions of government. The events involving former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte demonstrate how quickly a person may be taken from Philippine territory once executive action is set in motion,” the statement read.

“In such a situation, judicial review may become practically difficult, if not ineffectual, once foreign custody is completed,” it added.

did not receive when it was initially issued last Wednesday.

“My client never told me that Atty. Bernice Piñol received the subpoena. Personally, my client has not received any document,” Cacapit told reporters in Filipino.

The subpoena was initially addressed to the offices of Piñol-Rodriguez, which also serves as counsel for PGMN founder Franco Mabanta and four others implicated in alleged extortion charges.

Cacapit has since assured authorities that Hirro would cooperate in the investigation stemming from the complaint filed by the Romualdez camp, but declined to comment on the contents of the aforementioned video. — With reports from Rolando Ng III

In November, the SC denied a petition seeking to compel the production of an alleged ICC warrant against Dela Rosa.

The NBI) reportedly has a copy of the ICC arrest warrant against Dela Rosa in connection with the crimes against humanity case involving former President Rodrigo Duterte, Trillanes said.

Trillanes made the statement as he showed reporters what he claimed was a copy of the arrest warrant, which he said was the reason for his presence at the Senate premises on Monday.

The former senator said he went to the Senate to join NBI personnel who were supposedly set to arrest Dela Rosa.

In a message shared with reporters, Dela Rosa’s office said CIDG operatives visited earlier in the day and left a copy of the subpoena.

“We didn’t officially receive it because we are not authorized and there were no instructions from Sen. Bato,” a staff of Dela Rosa said.

Police Capt. Larry Ray, who delivered the subpoena, said the PNP-CIDG still considers the document served after office personnel accepted the copy.

“They received the copy but did not sign because they said that was their instruction,” Ray said in a chance interview.

For its part, Akbayan condemned the leadership coup as a shameless “desperate, last-ditch attempt to protect Duterte from the impeachment proceedings now set to reach the chamber.”

“Pro-Duterte senators scrambled to seize control of the Senate in an effort to derail, delay, or even sabotage its constitutional duty to convene as an impeachment court,” the political party said.

“This will leave a permanent stain on the Senate as an institution. The Filipino people will remember this day. No leadership coup, political maneuver, or institutional sabotage will stop the growing public demand for impeachment and accountability.”

Despite the abrupt ouster, Sotto said he had anticipated the coup.

“Senate President or not, my allegiance is to the Constitution and my loyalty is to the Filipino people. I lift everything to my creator. God bless the Philippines,” Sotto said.

Those who voted “Yes” for a leadership change were Cayetano, Padilla, Dela Rosa, Pia Cayetano, Rodante Marcoleta, Christopher Go, Loren Legarda, Imee Marcos, Camille Villar, Mark Villar, Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Estrada and Francis Escudero.

Those who abstained were Senators JV Ejercito and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri while those who voted “No” were Sotto and Senators Panfilo Lacson, Francis Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, Bam Aquino, Lito Lapid, Raffy Tulfo, Erwin Tulfo and Sherwin Gatchalian.

Chaos erupted outside the session hall as police enforced a total lockdown of the Senate grounds shortly after Dela Rosa emerged from months in hiding.

Dela Rosa said National Bureau of Investigation agents tried to physically block him from entering the building.

“When I was absent, you were looking for me, [saying I was] receiving a salary but not showing up. Now that I am showing up here, I am being blocked. They wrestled me,” he said. For his part, Cayetano thanked Sotto for his leadership and described him as a statesman despite their past political differences in the chamber.

“You’ve always been a statesman, at least to me,” he said.

Sotto had served as Senate President of the 20th Congress since Sept. 8, 2025.

“As far as we are concerned, it is deemed received because they accepted it. It is now up to them whether it reaches Sen. Bato or their lawyer),” he added.

Ray also warned of possible legal consequences should Dela Rosa failed to comply with the subpoena.

“Let’s see what will happen. Mostly, we know that if you do not comply with a subpoena, you may be cited for indirect contempt,” he said.

The subpoena directed Dela Rosa to appear before investigators at Camp Crame in Quezon City on May 14 to execute a sworn statement or affidavit and submit documents related to the investigation.

The CIDG said the probe covers the “facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged extra-judicial killings in the Davao Region based on the House of Representatives Quad Committee hearings, and the revelations made in public interviews by SPO3 Arturo Lascañas (Ret.).” Dela Rosa has not reported at the Senate since November 2025 after reports surfaced about an alleged arrest warrant issued by the ICC against him in connection with the bloody drug war during Duterte’s watch.

PH, Paraguay pledge deeper economic ties

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Paraguayan President Santiago Peña on Monday pledged to deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation as the two countries marked the first-ever presidential visit between the Philippines and the South American nation since establishing diplomatic ties in 1962.

Welcoming Peña at Malacañang Palace, Mr. Marcos described the Paraguayan leader’s official visit as “historic” and said both sides discussed expanding cooperation in agriculture, trade, renewable energy, and investment.

“Since Paraguay has taken the first step, I think it is important that the Philippines soon return the favor,” President Marcos said during a joint press appearance. The two leaders highlighted the complementary roles of their countries as regional gateways, with President Marcos describing the Philippines as a “gateway to Asia” and Paraguay as a “gateway to Latin America.”

“What came out was a remarkable parallel in the way our countries are developing and how we view each of our nations,” President Marcos said, adding that stronger ties could benefit not only both countries but also Southeast Asia and Latin America.

The President said Manila is exploring the export of Philippine products such as tuna, sardines, and milkfish to Paraguay, while both governments seek to boost trade and investment through stronger business engagement.

During the visit, Philippine and Paraguayan officials witnessed the signing of several agreements, including a visa waiver arrangement for ordinary passport holders and a memorandum of understanding on diplomatic training between the two countries’ foreign ministries.

IN BRIEF

DOLE rolls out P1.5b aid for agriculture, fishery

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has rolled out a P1.5-billion assistance package for workers in the agriculture and fishery sectors under the government’s Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program. The initiative aims to cushion the impact of the ongoing energy emergency triggered by tensions in the Middle East.

Implemented in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and the National Irrigation Administration, the program will provide shortterm wage employment and livelihood assistance through the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), and the Adjustment Measures Program. Vito Barcelo

SPD arrests 99, seizes P2.5m drugs in busts

THE continuing crackdown against illegal drugs in southern Metro Manila resulted in the arrest of 99 individuals and the seizure of prohibited substances valued at P2.5 million.

A total of 78 anti-drug operations were carried out by the Southern Police District (SPD) from May 4 to 11, leading to the arrest of 97 streetlevel offenders and two high-value targets. Authorities said the operations reflect SPD’s commitment to dismantling illegal drug operations and curbing the spread of prohibited substances in southern Metro Manila. Joel E. Zurbano

77 CAFGU members in E. Visayas receive pay

SEVENTY-SEVEN members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Eastern Visayas received a total of P9.61 million in separation gratuity pay from the 8th Infantry Division in recognition of their years of service in peace and security operations.

The financial assistance was distributed on April 30 through the Division CAFGU Active Auxiliary Office and released via respective infantry battalions across the region, the 8ID said in a statement issued Sunday. Of the total amount, P3.73 million went to 30 CAFGU members under the 93rd Infantry Battalion, P2.68 million to 22 members of the 43rd Infantry Battalion, P1.78 million to 14 members of the 63rd Infantry Battalion, and P1.4 million to 11 members of the 46th Infantry Battalion. Rex Espiritu

Senate probes ‘ghost’ gov’t health facilities

By Ram Superable

THE Senate Committee on Health and Demography launched an inquiry Monday into the Department of Health’s facility enhancement program following reports of significant discrepancies between official progress claims and the actual condition of local clinics.

Senate Deputy Majority Leader

Risa Hontiveros led the May 11 hearing to investigate why numerous taxpayer-funded projects appear completed on paper while remaining closed, understaffed, or lacking essential medicines in reality.

“It is not enough to have a building standing if no services are actually being provided to the people. When a health facility is closed, equipment is left stockpiled, or a project is abandoned, it is not just public funds being wasted. There are patients left untreated, communities left behind, and potentially, lives being lost,” she said.

The committee scrutinized the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) after discovering that

costly medical equipment often remains in storage instead of being used for patient care. Hontiveros attributed these systemic failures to inadequate monitoring, procurement flaws, and poor performance by contracted builders.

The lawmaker also warned that political favoritism at times overrides technical requirements when the health department allocates resources for new projects.

“We will demand accountability.

And we will take a stand to ensure that every fund allocated to the HFEP goes not toward appearances or favoritism, but toward genuine health services for the people,” she said.

During the hearing, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Joseph Victor Ejer-

cito expressed frustration over delays, noting that some facilities receiving massive investments still lack the equipment needed to operate.

Ejercito emphasized that modernizing these centers is vital to the success of the Universal Health Care Law, which he helped sponsor in 2019.

“All of this is unacceptable. This should not be treated as normal, especially when billions of pesos of the people’s money are at stake,” he said.

Senator Raffy Tulfo, for his part, highlighted findings from the 2024 Commission on Audit report that flagged billions of pesos worth of non-functional equipment and incomplete health centers.

Tulfo questioned the effectiveness of the P190 billion spent on the program since 2008, specifically citing the existence of “ghost” facilities that offer no actual services to the public.

“These health facilities cannot wait any longer because the people need them. For us to be proud of the Universal Health Care law, our health facilities have to be at par as well. The old, outdated ways are no longer acceptable,” he said.

Cocaine haul recovered off Palawan

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday reported the recovery of suspected illegal drugs off the coastal waters of Rizal, Palawan on the afternoon of May 10, following a report from a local fisherman who discovered two suspicious packages floating near the shoreline of Barangay Taburi.

Initial police investigation showed the packages, wrapped in black plastic, contained approximately two kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of P20 million.

The recovered items were immediately secured by personnel of the Rizal Municipal Police Station under the Palawan Police Provincial Office for proper documentation and laboratory examination.

The discovery was made about 25 miles from the shoreline of Barangay Taburi after the fisherman alerted authorities about the floating packages he encountered while at sea.

PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the swift coordination between local police and the civilian who reported the incident.

“The cooperation of our people in situations like this is important. Reporting suspicious items greatly helps prevent the spread of illegal drugs in our communities,” Nartatez said.

He added that the PNP continues to strengthen maritime and coastal monitoring efforts in coordination with partner agencies to prevent illegal drugs from entering communities through sea routes.

“We will continue to intensify our vigilance along the coasts and seas. The police will remain alert and prepared against any type of illegal activity,” he added.

The recovery forms part of the PNP Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, supporting the peace and order efforts of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr..

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy (DOE) announced a significant rollback in diesel and kerosene prices effective Tuesday, reflecting recent movements in the global oil market. Diesel prices will drop by P9.75 per liter, while kerosene prices will decrease by P13.30 per liter. Conversely, the DOE mandated a price increase of P0.47 per liter for gasoline and P1.22 per kilo for liquefied petroleum gas, translating to an P11.42 increase for a standard 11-kilo cylinder. According to DOE data for May 5 to 11, prevailing gasoline prices in the National Capital Region ranged from P72 to P106.50 per liter, diesel from P80.76 to P103.40 per liter, and kerosene from P125 to P150 per liter. With the upcoming rollback, the maximum price of diesel in the NCR is expected to fall below P100, bringing the projected range to P71.01 to P93.65 per liter. Seaoil Philippines was among the first to announce price adjustments following the DOE directive. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the national fuel inventory is sufficient for 50.7 days. Kerosene leads with 165.83 days of supply, followed by jet fuel at 73.01 days and fuel oil at 56.79 days. Gasoline supply is stable for 53.43 days, diesel for 48.85 days, and LPG for 35.33 days.

IN BRIEF

400 law students vie for internship at OMB

THE Office of the Ombudsman’s legal internship program has attracted hundreds of applicants from law schools across the country, underscoring growing interest among young professionals in anti-corruption work and public service.

Around 400 law students have applied for 30 slots in the program, which is set to begin in June.

Assistant Ombudsman for Internal Affairs Luigi Bonoan said the internship program represents far more than vocational training.

“It is a deliberate investment in shaping the country’s next generation of public servants. This is nation-building. We’re honing their idealism, showing them that government can actually do something right, that there is hope,” Bonoan said. Rex Espiritu

CHED urged to rethink plan to alter curriculum

A LAWMAKER on Monday urged the Commission on Higher Education to rethink its plan to remove subjects that promote critical thinking among students at the tertiary level.

Solid North Party-list Rep. Menchie

“Ching” Bernos made the statement after CHED conducted a public hearing on the proposed changes to its general education curriculum for colleges and universities.

“I hope the CHED will reconsider their proposal, especially with the public clamor especially from educators themselves not to erase subjects like literature, art, Philippine history, and ethics, among others,” said Bernos.

“We shouldn’t just think of our students as a production line). We must remember that this is higher education and we should be concerned with molding the future leaders of our country,” she added.

Maricel V. Cruz

Atok mayor opposes plan to import carrots

ATOK, Benguet Mayor Franklin Smith resists the Department of Agriculture’s plan to import 6,000 metric tons of carrots, warning that the move could further weaken the province’s vegetable industry like what happened in the early 2000s.

Smith said agriculture officials should first consult industry stakeholders directly involved in highland vegetable production before proceeding with the planned importation, which he said could harm local farmers.

“We were surprised to learn about the planned importation of some 6,000 metric tons of carrots when there is sufficient supply of the crop being produced by our vegetable farmers from the different parts of the province,” the mayor said. Dexter A. See

Navotas sanitary landfill under tighter watch for health hazards

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has tightened its monitoring of the Navotas sanitary landfill amid complaints regarding its emission of unsanitary steam in surrounding areas.

The agency on Monday reported that environmental conditions surrounding the Navotas sanitary landfill facility continued to improve significantly as the agency advances legal action against the facility’s operator, the Philippine Ecology Systems Corp. (PHILECO). Air quality across Metro Manila and

neighboring Bulacan has steadily improved, with realtime monitoring showing a consistent decline in particulate matter concentrations.

Stations in Caloocan City, Navotas City, and Bulacan’s Meycauayan and Obando had stabilized within the “Fair” to “Good” categories, reflecting the com-

bined impact of suppression operations and the natural dispersion of smoke as active smoldering diminished.

The DENR noted while localized “fair” readings may still occur depending on wind direction, regional air quality has largely returned to nearbaseline levels.

Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna underscored the significance of this development, saying “the air is clearing, the danger is receding, and the science shows that our communities are safer today than they were at the height of the incident.”

The improving environmental conditions also allowed affected communities to return to normalcy, according to the

THE MARK OF CALOOCAN CITY. The Caloocan City logo is superimposed on a curated image of the city’s famous historical landmark, the Bonifacio Monument located at the northernmost tip of equally historical Epifanio de los Santos Ave. (EDSA).

Cuna disclosed confirmed reports from the Office of Civil Defense that all 170 families who were temporarily evacuated in Obando had safely returned home as of May 4.

Amid environmental indicators trended positively, the DENR confirmed that it still issued notices of violation to PHILECO for noncompliance with environmental compliance certificate conditions. It also initiated case buildup with the Office of the Solicitor General, with judicial affidavits of witnesses now being finalized.

Cuna vowed that the agency would pursue the matter with full rigor.

PhilSA warns vs. Chinese rocket debris falling into PH EEZ

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Monday confirmed the launch of China’s Long March 7 rocket and warned the public over possible debris falling within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

In an advisory, PhilSA said the rocket was launched from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan, China early Monday morning, Philippine time.

According to the agency, the projected debris drop zone was estimated at approximately 34 nautical miles from Bajo de Masinloc, 97 nautical miles from Cabra Island in Occidental Mindoro, and 130 nautical miles from Busuanga, Palawan.

PhilSA said details of the rocket drop zone were issued through a Notice to Airmen warning of an “aerospace flight activity,” with relevant Philip-

pine government agencies informed prior to the launch.

The agency explained that rocket components such as boosters and fairings are intentionally discarded as the rocket ascends into outer space.

“While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas, falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone,” PhilSA said.

It also warned that debris may float at sea and wash ashore in nearby coastal areas.

Additionally, PhilSA noted that the possibility of the rocket’s upper stages making an uncontrolled reentry into the atmosphere “cannot be ruled out at this time.”

The agency emphasized that increasing global rocket launch activities continue to pose hazards not only to spacecraft but also to civil aviation and communities on the ground.

Army captures NPA leader in Masbate

A LEADER of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Masbate province was reported captured after being wounded in a firefight with government troops in Palanas town on Sunday morning, the military said.

In an interview, Col. Angel Lutera, commander of the Army’s 903rd Infantry Brigade, said soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Battalion encountered five members of the Komiteng Larangang Guerilla South under Sub-Regional Committee 4 in Barangay Miabas around 5:30 a.m. Sunday.

The gunbattle lasted about five minutes before the rebels fled, leaving behind a caliber .45 pistol, magazines, documents and personal belongings.

Lutera said troops launched the op -

eration after receiving a text message from a resident reporting the presence of armed rebels in the area.

He identified the wounded rebel leader as Raul “Luding” Tolingin, also known by the aliases “Dadi” and “Herman,” deputy secretary of the group.

“We airlifted him and he is now being treated at a government hospital in Masbate,” Lutera told reporters. He also said Tolingin was allegedly involved in several atrocities and killings in the province. Lutera said the arrest of the rebel leader could encourage other NPA members to surrender.

“The government is ready to accept rebels and provide them with livelihood assistance through the E-CLIP program,” he said. Rex Espiritu

THE Caloocan City government has enacted a new ordinance regulating the tobacco trade and prohibiting the sale, manufacture, and distribution of illicit, untaxed, counterfeit, and non-compliant tobacco products.

The consumer advocacy group CitizenWatch viewed the move as a significant step in strengthening local government participation in the fight against illicit trade.

The city government issued Ordinance No. 1193 which imposes administrative and criminal penalties against establishments and individuals found violating national tobacco and taxation laws.

CitizenWatch convenor Orlando Oxales said the ordinance “demonstrates how local governments can play a more active role in addressing illicit trade, particularly as smuggling and counterfeit tobacco products continue to proliferate nationwide.”

“This is a strong example of how LGUs can complement national enforcement efforts,” Oxales said. “Illicit trade is no longer just a customs or taxation issue. It is already affecting local governance, lawful businesses, and community-level enforcement.” Oxales said.

The ordinance, approved by the Caloocan City Council and signed by Mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan, prohibits businesses from engaging in the manufacture, sale, transfer, or distribution of tobacco products that are illicit, counterfeit, untaxed, unregistered, or otherwise non-compliant with applicable laws and regulations.

Under the measure, establishments found violating the ordinance may face suspension or revocation of business permits, confiscation of illicit products, and administrative fines. Repeat violations may lead to permanent closure of establishments.

The ordinance also authorizes coordination among local authorities and national agencies such as the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, Philippine National Police, and National Bureau of Investigation in enforcement and inspection activities.

CitizenWatch noted that one notable feature of the ordinance is

OPINION

The economy is

SANTA Banana, the numbers are finally telling us what ordinary Filipinos have been feeling for months: the economy is in serious trouble.

The government reported that inflation surged 7.2 percent in April, the highest in more than three years. Economic growth slowed sharply to only 2.8 percent in the first quarter of 2026, far below expectations.

If that is not a warning bell, I don’t know what is, my gulay.

For the ordinary Filipino, these are not just economic statistics, these are daily realities.

Inflation means your grocery budget shrinks and your electricity bill rises.

It means the jeepney driver earns less after paying for fuel and the office worker skips lunch just to make it to payday. And the sad part is wages do not rise as fast as prices.

The country is now caught between two dangerous forces: prices are rising rapidly while the economy itself is slowing down.

What can the government do? Raise the interest rate but businesses will suffer more. Cut rates too soon and inflation could spiral further.

Santa Banana, it’s like trying to stop a flood while the dam is actually cracking.

What caused all this?

Part of it comes from the worsening conflict in the Middle East, which has pushed oil prices upward and disrupted global supply chains. Since the Philippines imports

crying for help

most of its fuel, we absorb the pain almost immediately. So once fuel prices rise, everything follows.

Rice becomes more expensive because transport costs increase. Fish prices rise because fishermen spend more on diesel.

The sad part is wages do not rise as fast as prices

Electricity becomes more expensive because we rely on imported fuel. My gulay, even the price of a humble carinderia meal has gone up.

The bigger concern is that investor confidence appears weak. And who can blame investors for being cautious?

Look at the political environment today. The country is dealing with political infighting, investigations, an impeachment case and the upcoming 2028 elections.

Foreign investors care about predictability and confidence that the economy is moving in the right direction. Right now, many investors are not convinced.

And the ordinary Filipino worker suffers the most.

Parents are struggling to budget school expenses, young workers are wondering if they will ever afford homes of their own.

I hope and pray that we Filipinos will not lose the hope that life will improve soon.

Trial by politics, not proof

THE Constitution seems clear enough.

Once the House transmits Articles of Impeachment, the Senate “shall forthwith proceed” to trial. No ambiguity. No loopholes.

Yet in practice, that clarity is dissolving into something more familiar: delay, negotiation—and perhaps quiet defiance.

Former Senate President insists the mandate is absolute. He is right—but only up to a point. Because Constitutional text now competes with two forces: political arithmetic and judicial reinterpretation.

The Supreme Court’s ruling in G.R. 278311, Catalino Aldea Generillo, Jr. v. Senate of the Philippines quietly changed the terrain. It held that while the Senate has a duty to act, “forthwith” does not mean immediately—it means within a “reasonable time.”

That single phrase turns a command into discretion.

And discretion, in politics, is where principle often falters.

Law vs. Votes

On paper, the Senate is an impeachment court.

In reality, it is a chamber of politicians.

If a majority chooses to delay or

block the trial—through motions, procedural maneuvers, or sheer inaction—the Constitution offers no enforcement mechanism. The Court, for its part, will intervene only in cases of “grave abuse of discretion,” a threshold high enough to permit wide maneuvering.

Discretion, in politics, is where principle often falters

This is where Pimentel’s warning of a Senate “coup” becomes plausible.

If Senate President insists on proceeding, a majority can simply replace him. Leadership, after all, is not a principle. It is a vote.

The Power of Delay

The Court’s restraint has consequences.

By redefining “forthwith” as “reasonable,” it handed the Senate a clock with no clear deadline—and in politics, time is a weapon. Delay can sap public attention, fracture coalitions, and ultimately render impeachment meaningless. Contrast this with the decisive proceedings in a previous impeach-

The reckoning

THE impeachment ball rolled out Monday from the House of Representatives, with the flag speeding alongside it with focus on accountability and rule of law.

That ball is now in the Senate hall, which interestingly changed leadership minutes before the 255 yes votes were cast against 26 no and nine abstentions – with 24-member Senate sitting as the impeachment judges.

The charges include misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, and alleged threats against President Marcos. They highlight the legal process over political standing and focus on the repeated nature of the charges, and when confidential funds met public scrutiny.

The margin of votes was heard and watched by millions, north and south of the capital, to send articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Senate, throwing her announced 2028 presidential run in a legal and Constitutional zone of doubt.

Under the 1987 Constitution, an impeachment triggers a Senate trial. A guilty verdict there would see Duterte removed from office and barred from elected office for life.

Filipinos will be watching how the Senate, with its new leadership, will act on the impeach-

ment complaints.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who served as then president Rodrigo Duterte’s foreign secretary, replaced Vicente Sotto III as Senate president after a 13-9 vote, with two abstentions.

The vote had not been tipped beforehand.

The impeachment... deserves attention which underlines accountability in public office

Filipinos including political and election observers will be watching keenly if the change in Senate leadership could play a significant role in the outcome of the attempt to impeach the vice president.

The House committee on justice chairman Gerville Luistro sponsored the impeachment complaint before the votes were counted, underlining process and evidence.

The plenary discussions focussed on the four consolidat-

ed Articles of Impeachment adopted by the Justice panel after combining similar allegations from the Saballa and Cabrera impeachment complaints.

The first article involves the alleged misuse and irregular disbursement of confidential funds under both the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education during Duterte’s tenure as secretary.

The second article focuses on allegations of unexplained wealth and discrepancies involving Duterte’s Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth and bank transactions flagged by the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

The third article concerns allegations of bribery tied to cash envelopes reportedly distributed to DepEd officials when Duterte was secretary.

The fourth article centers on Duterte’s controversial remarks in November 2024 in which she publicly stated online that she had arranged for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza AranetaMarcos, and then-Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez to be killed should anything happen to her.

The impeachment, which may highlight the end of the line, for the Vice President, deserves attention which underlines accountability in public office.

In India, heat-triggered insurance offers ‘some relief’

AHMEDABAD, India – Clothes seller Lata Solanki used to face a devastating choice when India’s summer heat hit dangerous levels: risk her health going door-to-door for sales, or lose her income?

But now the 42-year-old is part of an insurance scheme that pays out when temperatures hit a threshold, so she can stay home without jeopardising her finances.

The “parametric” model pays out automatically when specific triggers are breached, in Solanki’s case after two consecutive days at 43.72 degrees Celsius.

The payout is modest, but it helps, she told AFP in Ahmedabad, one of India’s hottest cities.

“At least we feel there is some support,” she said. “Because of the heat, the fan runs day and night. The bill goes up.”

In 2023, the year before she joined the scheme, Solanki kept working during a heatwave and ended up sick at home for 20 days, losing at least 2,000 rupees ($21) in income.

The following year, she received 750 rupees from the scheme, small but more than the cost of the premium, and a relief in a country where the average monthly rural household income is 10,000 rupees ($105).

India lost an estimated 247 billion hours of labor to extreme heat in 2024, equivalent to nearly $194 billion in economic losses, according to the Lancet Countdown research group.

Agriculture and construction bore the brunt, and climate change is accelerating the number of days of extreme heat India sees.

Parametric insurance is seen as a way to protect the most vulnerable from climate impacts like heat, but also heavy rain.

ment, where speed and clarity gave the process legitimacy. Today, hesitation threatens to do the opposite.

Beyond One Case

In India’s northeastern state of Nagaland, the government has insured its entire population against economic losses due to heavy rainfall under a parametric model since 2024.

The federal government is examining how to extend the schemes more widely to “supplement insurance mechanisms and reinforce protection to the people”.

‘Some relief’

Unlike traditional insurance, parametric policies do not require individual damage assessments.

India lost an estimated 247 billion hours of labor to extreme heat in 2024, equivalent to nearly $194 billion in economic losses

Instead, payouts are triggered automatically by heavy rain, high heat or even air pollution.

The scheme helping Solanki is a collaboration between the non-profit Mahila Housing Trust (MHT) and global insurer Go Digit, supported by the Climate Resilience for All initiative.

MHT program manager Nital Rahul Patel said the idea emerged after surveys and discussions with women workers in Ahmedabad, where temperatures sometimes hit 45C (113F).

“They would say it is very hot every year,” she said. “But when we broke down their expenses, we realised incomes were falling by 2,000-2,500 rupees ($21-26) over four months of

summer.”

The scheme began in 2024 with 26,000 women across Gujarat. Their 354-rupee premium was covered by Climate Resilience for All.

In 2025 enrolment rose, but the scheme made no payments because the temperature threshold was not met.

This year, the trigger has been revised down to 42.74 degrees Celcius, and the scheme aims to cover more than 30,000 women.

If temperatures hit the threshold for two days, they will qualify for payments ranging from 850 to 2,000 rupees ($21).

Higher temperatures trigger higher payments, but the amount is a one-off, not cumulative. It is assessed and paid at the end of the heat season in September.

Rakhi Gulshan Singh, a seamstress earning around 4,000 rupees a month, signed up even though she works indoors.

“When I run the sewing machine, it becomes even hotter,” the 30-year-old said, who got a payout in 2024. “It is small, but it gives some relief.”

‘Faster and more transparent’ Adarsh Agarwal, appointed actuary at Go Digit, said his company has covered more than 50,000 people since it began working on parametric insurance two years ago.

While still a “niche product,” he said demand has increased.

There is now “more knowledge and more curiosity”, he told AFP, and his firm has offered both heat and airquality parametric schemes. Payment thresholds are set based on historical weather data and intended to be “practical, sustainable and aligned to the intended segment while managing basis risk”, he added. AFP

A Test of Institutional Will Pimentel is asking the Senate to follow the Constitution. But the deeper question is whether the Senate still feels bound by it.

This is not just about Sara Duterte. It is about whether impeachment remains a genuine tool of accountability—or becomes a political option, used or ignored depending on convenience. If the Senate can indefinitely delay under the banner of “reasonableness,” future impeachments may never reach trial at all.

Because no court can force action, and no text can compel courage. If “forthwith” becomes “eventually”—or worse, “never”—the lesson will be stark: In the Philippines, accountability is rarely defeated outright. It is simply delayed into irrelevance.

TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Trump rejects Iran peace terms

Eyeing migrant returns, EU pushes to revive Syria relations

BRUSSELS – The European Union is to push Monday for a revival of ties with Syria as it looks to bolster the warravaged country -- with an eye on prospects for Syrian migrants in Europe to one day return home.

The bloc’s foreign ministers will meet in Brussels with Syrian top diplomat Asaad al-Shaibani to kick off a high-level “political dialogue” 18 months after the ouster of strongman Bashar al-Assad.

An EU official said the aim was to back reconstruction of the country devastated by more than a decade of civil war that sent millions fleeing abroad, and where “the reality on the ground is still appalling”.

Some 13 million Syrians -- nearly half the population -- depend on food assistance, the official said. Needs are enormous, and the EU has already pledged 620 million euros ($730 million) in aid for the 2026-2027 period.

But Syria’s stability also interests many EU countries because its nationals have made up the lion’s share of asylum-seekers in the bloc over a decade -- and there is a push for large numbers to eventually go back home. AFP

IN BRIEF

China confirms Trump’s visit this week

BEIJING – President Donald Trump will visit China from May 13 to 15, Beijing confirmed on Monday, with the US leader expected to discuss Iran and trade with his Chinese counterpart. Washington and Beijing have been at loggerheads over key issues ranging from trade tariffs to the Middle East war and Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory.

Trump was originally meant to visit in late March or early April, but postponed his trip to focus on the Iran war.

“At the invitation of President Xi Jinping, President of the United States of America Donald J. Trump will pay a state visit to China from May 13 to 15,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said.

Trump is expected to push Xi on Iran while aiming to ease trade tensions, according to US officials.

China is a key customer for Iranian oil, mainly through independent “teapot” refineries that rely on discounted crude from the Islamic republic.AFP

EU diplomat: Putin wants Schroeder

BRUSSELS – EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Monday pushed back on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for ex-German leader Gerhard Schroeder to mediate with Europe on the war in Ukraine.

“If we give the right to Russia to appoint a negotiator on our behalf, you know, that would not be very wise,” Kallas told reporters ahead of foreign ministers’ talks in Brussels.

“Gerhard Schroeder has been a highlevel lobbyist for Russian state-owned companies. So it’s clear why Putin wants him to be the person so that actually, you know, he would be sitting on both sides of the table,” she said.

Asked on Saturday whom he would like to help restart talks with Europe, Putin said he would “personally” prefer Schroeder, who led Germany from 1998 to 2005. The former chancellor has remained close to the Kremlin leader long after leaving office, standing apart from most Western leaders since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. AFP

Under-threat Starmer to attempt reset

LONDON – Beleaguered British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attempt a reset on Monday, as he faces a growing threat to his leadership following disastrous local and regional polls.

In a speech, his office said he will acknowledge that “incremental change won’t cut it” with an increasingly disgruntled public, promising “a bigger response” in areas such as economic growth, closer European ties and energy. On Sunday, his Education Minister Bridget Phillipson said a leadership contest was not the answer as Labor licks its wounds from last week’s election drubbing. Starmer himself signaled that he hoped to stay in power until 2034. But several Labour lawmakers made it clear they believed it was time for him to go. AFP

Thailand’s ex-PM Thaksin released from prison

BANGKOK – Thailand’s former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was released early from prison on Monday, raising the prospect of a return to the spotlight for the political heavyweight. The 76-year-old telecoms billionaire served eight months of a one-year prison sentence for corruption and will be required to wear an electronic monitor during his four-month probation period. Thaksin hugged family members outside the Bangkok jail where several hundred supporters wearing their signature red shirts had gathered, some shouting “we love Thaksin”, an AFP journalist saw.

Thaksin “may stay away for a couple months, but he will not leave politics”, said 70-year-old Janthana Chaidej who took a day off work as a restaurant cook to show his support. Thaksin, who will be on probation until September, has other pending criminal cases against him, which could dissuade him from making rousing speeches and risking further prosecution, analysts say. “I went into hibernation for eight months,” Thaksin told reporters from a rear window of his car outside his home in the capital, adding that he felt “relief” after his release.

Groundbreaking: ‘Controlled’ quakes triggered under Alps

BEDRETTO, Switzerland – Researchers have made the ground shake in southern Switzerland, triggering thousands of tiny earthquakes in a monitored setting, as they seek to discover seismicity insights that could reduce risks.

“It was a success!” said Domenico Giardini, one of the lead researchers on the project, as he inspected a crack in the rock wall lining a narrow tunnel far below the Swiss Alps.

Wearing a fluorescent orange jumpsuit and helmet, the geology professor at the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich) switched on his headlight to get a better look.

“We had seismicity,” he said excitedly, explaining that the goal was “to understand what happens at depth when the Earth moves”.

Giardini was standing in the BedrettoLab carved out in the middle of a narrow 5.2-kilometre (3.2mile) ventilation tunnel leading to the Furka railway tunnel.

Reached by specially adapted electric vehicles that slide through the dank darkness along concrete slabs laid over a muddy dirt floor, the deep underground laboratory is the ideal location to create and study earthquakes, Giardini said. AFP

The former premier was fitted with an electronic monitor at a Bangkok probation office on Monday morning, and will not be allowed to travel outside of the capital without permission, the corrections department said in a statement.

While leaving the probation office, Thaksin appeared to joke with journalists about his memory, saying, “I do not remember anything. I have Alzheimer’s already.”

Thaksin’s political machine has for two decades been a key rival of Thailand’s pro-military, pro-royalty elite, who view his populist brand as a threat to the traditional social order. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – US

President Donald Trump branded Iran’s terms for ending the Middle East war “totally unacceptable”, raising the possibility of fresh conflict and sending oil prices sharply higher in early Asia trade on Monday.

Iran had on Sunday responded to Washington’s latest peace proposal and warned it would not hold back from retaliating against any new US strikes or permit more foreign warships in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump made clear in a post on his Truth Social platform that he would reject Tehran’s counter-proposal, though he did not offer details on its contents.

“I have just read the response from Iran’s so-called ‘Representatives.’ I don’t like it -- TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” Trump said. The impasse unnerved global energy markets, with international benchmark Brent crude prices rising 4.65 percent to $99.95 a barrel during Monday morning trade in Asia.

Benchmark US oil contract West Texas Intermediate (WTI) also surged by just over 4 percent to $105.5 a barrel, as investors braced for further disruptions to supplies through the strait, where Tehran has imposed a partial blockade. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu -- whose forces launched the war on Iran along with the United States on February 28 -- also insisted the conflict would not end until Iran’s nuclear facilities were removed.

“It’s not over, because there’s still nuclear material -- enriched uranium -- that has to be taken out of Iran. There’s still enrichment sites that have to be dismantled,” Netanyahu told CBS’s “60 Minutes.” Tehran has publicly maintained a defiant line during diplomatic efforts to bring the warring sides back to the negotiating table. “We will never bow down to the enemy, and if there is talk of dialogue or negotiation, it does not mean surrender or retreat,” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian posted to X on Sunday. According to state broadcaster IRIB, Tehran’s response to the US plan, passed to Pakistani mediators, focuses on ending the war “on all fronts, especially Lebanon” -- where Israel has kept up its fight with Iran-backed Hezbollah -- as well as on “ensuring shipping security.” AFP

YANGON – Myanmar claimed on Monday that “discriminatory measures” are shutting it out of the ASEAN bloc after a summit last week saw the organization continue to blacklist the country’s postcoup leadership. The 11-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations has shunned Myanmar from summits since the military in 2021 deposed the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and detained the democratic figurehead, triggering a civil war. After five years of martial rule, the junta staged a tightly restricted election excluding Suu Kyi’s party that last month resulted in putsch-leading military chief Min Aung Hlaing taking over as civilian president. At an ASEAN summit in the Philippines last week, the hosting country’s President Ferdinand Marcos complained there had not been “any progress in Myanmar”. Myanmar’s foreign ministry, in a statement, claimed that on the contrary,

“positive developments taking place in Myanmar have been well recognized by the majority of ASEAN Member States”. “However, it is observed that a few Member States continue to maintain restrictions, discriminatory measures, and the exclusion of the Myanmar Government from equal representation.” ASEAN is suffering from a fraying consensus over Myanmar, analysts say, with frustration growing over a lack of progress on the bloc’s peace plan to end the nation’s civil war. Some countries, such as neighbouring Thailand, congratulated Myanmar’s coup-leader-turned-president Min Aung Hlaing when he was sworn in, pledging to make efforts to stabilise their shared border.

Others have remained aloof about Min Aung Hlaing’s inauguration following an election widely criticised by

Focus, longevity: Scottie-Rory rivalry sparks mutual admiration

NEWTOWN—Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, who together have won four of the past five major titles, have impressed each other with their mental focus and golfing skills.

As world number one Scheffler and secondranked McIlroy prepared to face a world-class field at Aronimink in the 108th PGA Championship starting Thursday, they examined each other’s most formidable strengths.

Scheffler captured last year’s PGA Championship at Quail Hollow and British Open at Royal Portrush while McIlroy took the green jacket at the Masters last month and last year.

McIlroy finds Scheffler’s focus and consistency

among his greatest weapons.

“He has played consistently excellent golf for I would say ever since he got his first win back at the start of 2022, and he hasn’t really dropped off since then,” McIlroy said.

“It has been four years of really excellent, consistent golf. You look at his game, and you would have said a few years ago that the putting was a weakness, but you wouldn’t say that now.

“And you look at all the other aspects of his game and you don’t see a weakness, from a physical standpoint, from a mental standpoint.”

Scheffler has runner-up finishes in his past three starts but has shaken off weak efforts quickly, McIlroy noted.

“He seems like he has a good mindset of last week’s done, I’ll move on to this week,” McIlroy said. “Forget about whatever happened. He operates in the present so well, and that’s one of his super strengths.”

McIlroy impresses Scheffler in multiple ways as well.

“When you look at just his game, his ability to drive the ball is the best I’ve seen, not only with his speed but how accurate he is as well,” Scheffler said of McIlroy.

“He’s able to take out certain things on some golf courses that not many players can do. He does it in a way where he hits a lot of fairways as well.”

Scheffler also admires how long McIlroy, who won his first major at the 2011 US Open, has played at a top level.

“Another thing is his longevity. Hard to have an understanding of what it takes to remain at the top for as long as he has,” Scheffler said. “Rory is one of those guys that checks the box each week. He’s a guy I always see in the gym, the practice facility.

“Players will have a greater appreciation when you see somebody like Rory who has had success over so many years. When you look at when he won his first major championship to now it has been 15 years.

“That’s pretty difficult to do, so for him to still be at the top of the game for this long is quite impressive.” AFP

3 PH bets top medal hopes in Karate One Youth League

BARANGAY Ginebra head coach Tim Cone couldn’t ask for a better timing to have veteran big man Japeth Aguilar back in the rotation ahead of the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup playoffs. Coming off a three-game absence in a span of two weeks due to a lung injury, Aguilar started for the Gin Kings against the TNT Tropang 5G in the final game of the eliminations on Sunday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The athletic 6-foot-9 center immediately took on the tall task of guarding 7-foot-2 import Bol Bol and helped the Kings pick up a 93-86 victory that sealed the No. 2 seed with a 9-3 record and a winner’s advantage against Rain or Shine (9-3).

“We certainly wanted him (Aguilar) to be comfortable of getting back in to the play. We didn’t want to extend his minutes too long, but we really wanted to get him in and

PROMISING local karatekas

Sebastian Neil Mañalac, Zian

Alexander Sing and Aeleyah

Magrata will spearhead the hometown hopes in the Karate One Youth League presented by the Philippine Sports Commission kicking off on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Given his international experience and track record, Mañalac, 17, looms as the brighest Filipino prospect in the four-day competition organized by the Karate ng Pilipinas Sports Federation, Inc. and sanctioned by the World Karate Federation.

The junior kumite (sparring) exponent has dominated his age group division division at the National Championships for the last five years and a consistent Batang Pinoy National Games gold medalist as well.

Mañalac bagged a gold and bronze medal in the 22nd Asian Cadet, Junior and Under-21 Karate Championships held at the

Philsports Arena in Pasig City in 2024, earning him No. 8 in the WKF world ratings in his age group category.

He likewise secured a gold and a bronze medal in the 1st Asian Karate Federation Youth tournament and training camp staged in Wuhan, China two years ago.

In his last overseas stint, the Lourdes School of Mandaluyong high school graduate won two matches in the junior kumite men’s -68-kilogram class at the Karate One Youth League leg last February in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

Also a solid Pinoy prospect in the competition backed by the SM Group of Companies, Lanson’s Place and the Philippine Olympic Committee is Sing, 17, who ruled the junior men’s 61kg cass of the 4th Shureido International Karate Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia last year.

The karateka likewise dominated his weight class in the 6th Manuel Veguillas

get a feel for the competition,” said Cone. “You know you’re out for two weeks, and then all of a sudden you come back and you have to guard Bol Bol. I’m telling you that was a tough assignment,” added the league’s winningest tactician.

Aguilar scored six points and collared three rebounds in 15 minutes of action in his return since a scary fall from a hard collision with hulking import Robert Upshaw III in Ginebra’s 115-108 win over Blackwater last April 24. The 39-year-old Aguilar was also able to help limit Bol to 33 points and 10 rebounds, lower than his conference averages of 38.6 markers and 15.09 boards.

More than the numbers, Cone was glad to have Aguilar warmed up and ready for the playoffs.

“We set some things up for him a little early and you can tell he didn’t have his

Philippine International Open Karate Championship in 2025 and at the recent Nationals held in Tagaytay City.

Last but not the least is the versatile Magrata, who is both at home in kumite and kata (forms), who will be vying in the juniors -66kg women’s kumite of the tournament also backed by Milo, Senators Pia Cayetano, Christopher “Bong” Go and Citadines Place Manila.

Magrata topped the juniors female intermediate kata and settled for silver in the cadets female +61kg division in kumite in the 2025 Batang Pinoy National Games held in General Santos City.

Magrata was likewise the Karate Pilipinas Grand Winner juniors female kumite -66kg last year.

“All three young karatekas have been training very hard and I wouldn’t be suprised if they figure prominently in battle for gold in their respective age group categories,” karate chief Ricky Lim noted.

By Caezar Julius Cortez

A NEW collaboration between MPL Philippines and Universal Music Group Philippines sets the stage for the league’s first official anthem, “Palag Na ‘To,” penned by rising OPM star Janine Berdin.

The partnership was formalized in a signing ceremony attended by Berdin, UMG Philippines Managing Director Enzo Valdez, MOONTON Games Philippines Head of Marketing for Esports Jane Camille Dela Cruz, and Head of Business Development and Partnerships Lee Viloria.

Dela Cruz described the anthem as a natural step in MPL’s growth, saying it goes beyond matches and gameplay to capture the spirit and intensity behind the phrase “Palag Na ‘To.” She emphasized that while the expression can mean many things, the song succeeds in translating that energy into something fans can feel and remember. Valdez, meanwhile, highlighted how the collaboration bridges two global platforms—OPM and esports.

He noted that with Berdin as the artist, the project showcases Filipino talent on both fronts while creating a meaningful crossover between music and competitive gaming.

Following the signing, players, community figures from various MPL teams, key opinion leaders, and members of the media were given an exclusive preview of the anthem ahead of its official release on May 17.

Berdin shared that the song draws from the unique thrill of playing— the excitement and lighthearted hype that differs from pure adrenaline. She explained that she intentionally crafted the track to be something players would want to hear while in the middle of a game.

BARCELONA—Barcelona secured their 29th Spanish league title after beating Real Madrid 2-0 in the Clasico on Sunday.

Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres struck in the first half to help Hansi Flick’s side clinch La Liga in consecutive years, while consigning Madrid to a trophyless season. Barca moved an unassailable 14 points clear of second-place Los Blancos with three matches remaining.

This was only the second time the outcome of La Liga has been decided directly by the result of a Clasico, with record 36-time champions Real Madrid winning their first title in 1932 after a draw with Barca.

Flick’s team were disappointed to be knocked out in the Champions League quarter-finals by Atletico Madrid in April, but were still determined to celebrate in style.

“This title is more special for winning it at home against Madrid, now we have to enjoy it with the fans,” Barca midfielder Frenkie de Jong told Movistar.

“We have been the best team in Spain -- of course we (also) want to win the Champions League, that’s the objective.

“Next year we will have another opportunity.”

Madrid arrived at the match embroiled in chaos, after midfielder Fede Valverde was ruled out with a head injury following a training ground scuffle with team-mate Aurelien Tchouameni, who started. AFP

TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Marcial joins Basilan Steel team in MPBL

By Randy M. Caluag

PRO boxer and Olympic bronze medalist Eumir

Marcial has formally taken a new step in his sporting career after securing clearance to play in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) as a member of the Basilan Steel in the ongoing regular season.

Marcial, accompanied by Khymer Olaso, personally visited the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) to process and obtain their professional licenses required for participation in the league.

Their visit marked the official entry of the Filipino boxing star into the MPBL, a move that adds star power and national attention to the Basilan-based squad.They were welcomed by GAB

Chairman Francisco J. Rivera and agency officials, who expressed support for the initiative linking professional sports with grassroots development. Rivera commended Olaso for actively promoting sports programs aimed at steering the youth away from illegal drugs and other harmful activities.

“Programs like this show that sports can serve as a strong foundation for discipline, purpose, and opportunity,” Rivera said, noting that Zamboanga City continues to produce high-caliber athletes on the global stage.

Marcial, who won bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becomes one of the most prominent athletes to cross over into the MPBL. His presence is expected to boost both the competitive profile and visibility of the Basilan Steel franchise.

Zamboanga City has long been recognized as a talent-rich region in Philippine sports, producing world-class athletes such as Marcial and Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo.

With Olaso’s backing and Marcial’s Olympic pedigree, the team is positioning itself not only as a contender in the MPBL but also as a platform for community engagement.

Wizards win NBA Draft Lottery to capture first pick

NEW YORK—The Washington Wizards, who had the worst record in the NBA this past season, won the NBA Draft Lottery on Sunday to claim the top pick in next month’s draft.

Washington went 17-65 in the 202526 campaign, their second-worst record in team history after a 15-win season in 2023-24 -- the Wizards losing 26 of their last 27 games, including the final 10 in a row.

That gave the Wizards a 14% chance at the top pick, and they bagged the selection that that could add a star player to their struggling lineup.

The Wizards obtained star guard Trae Young from Atlanta in a January trade and power forward Anthony Davis in a February trade with Dallas. The top pick would be another key player in trying to bolster a squad that has not advanced past the second round of the playoffs since reaching the 1979 NBA Finals.

The Wizards have not reached the playoffs since 2021 and have not won a playoff series since 2017.

A.J. Dybantsa, a 19-year-old forward of Congolese and Jamaican origin, and Darryn Peterson, a 19-year-old guard, are considered the most likely US college stars to be taken first overall.

The NBA Draft, the annual allocation of top available talent, will be staged on June 23-24.

Utah received the second pick with Memphis third and Chicago fourth, all three clubs moving up despite longer odds of doing so in the selection process.

The fifth pick went to the Los Angeles Clippers from Indiana in a trade for Croatian center Ivica Zubac.

Brooklyn received the sixth pick followed in order by Sacramento, Atlanta (from New Orleans), Dallas, Milwaukee, Golden State, Oklahoma City (from the Clippers in a trade for Paul George), Miami and Charlotte. AFP

Huby scores 2nd climb-fuelled win, slashes Shulchenko lead

By Riera U. Mallari

MANGATAREM, Pangasinan (Powered by PLDT Home)—Frenchman Antoine Huby used his mad-climbing skills to capture another win in the 2026 MPTC Tour of Luzon, turning the final stretch of the summer odyssey on wheels interesting after carving significant time off the advantage of Russian race leader Nikita Shulchenko of LCW UAE Cycle in Stage 12 on Monday.

The 7-Eleven rider, already a winner atop the savage Bessang Pass two days earlier, once again relied on his specialty to claim his second stage victory, this time along the uphill finish at the Daang Kalikasan Mangatarem View Deck following the 141.4-kilometer ride from Agoo, La Union. Huby stopped the clock at 3 hours,

17 minutes and 37 seconds in a stage that appeared tame on paper, but hid a vicious 7.4-kilometer ascent near the end. In the final kilometer, he reeled in and passed Go for Gold’s Jericho Lucero, MPT’s Nash Lim, and LCW UAE Cycle’s Ivan Anisimov to seize control when the slope peaked. “It was really hard. When we

started the climb, my teammate pulled already for all the day. He controlled, he made a really hard job and he destroyed himself for me. So I needed to finish the job today, it was a lot of pain for me,” said the 25-year-old Huby, who once rode for the UCI WorldTeam Soudal-Quick-Step in 2024.

More importantly, the effort dramatically reshaped the general classification picture, with Huby slicing the overall gap down to 2:30 and vaulting himself to second place with two stages remaining.

“And I’m also tired. It was really hard today. I just went with all my strength to the finish line, my legs say, hey, you need to stop. But I just continued from there,” said Huby.

Shulchenko, for his part, responded late, attacking from the peloton inside the last seven kilometers to limit his losses and finish 1:20 behind for second place.

Erickson Delos Santos of D’Reyna crossed third at 1:41 back, but was later handed a 10-second penalty and fined P975 for receiving an extended push from team support. In the overall standings, Yousef Ibraheim Alrefai sits 4:29 behind his teammate Shulchenko, while Malaysian Muhammad Syawal Mazlin and 7-Eleven’s Ronnilan Quita trail by 7:06 and 7:19, respectively.

The team race also tilted further toward 7-Eleven, which widened its cushion over Go for Gold to five minutes, with Standard Insurance 17:35 adrift. Next comes the 20-kilometer individual time trial at the Pangasinan Baywalk in Lingayen, a discipline Huby admitted does not favor him, before everything culminates in Stage 14’s decisive 38.6-kilometer climb up Loakan Road to John Hay in Baguio City.

Eala satisfied with performance despite loss to Rybakina

By Jeremiah Sevilla

FILIPINA tennis sensation Alexandra Eala was delighted with how she fared against world No. 2

Elena Rybakina before turning her focus on the doubles’ event of the Italian Open 2026.

World No. 42 Eala put up a gutsy stand versus the two-time Grand Slam champion Rybakina but ultimately surrendered a 4-6, 3-6 result in their third-round faceoff at the Foro Italico Sports Complex in Rome late Sunday night (Manila time).

“I’m happy with my performance. I think I was able to reach a good level of tennis and I don’t think it was an easy win for her,” Eala said in an interview with Dyan Castillejo of ABS-CBN after her tussle with the 2023 edition winner in the Round of 32.

The Pinay standout drew 32 errors from the Kazakh star while limiting her own to 17, and broke the latter’s serve a few times as she held her ground for more than one and a half hours of intense battle.

Eala noted the improvements she is seeing in her clay court game after snapping a string of early exits in her first three tourneys this season and surpassing her first-round finish in last year’s Italian Open.

“I think I moved well today and I took my chances when I needed to. I do see my improvements on

TAGAYTAY—A new era dawned in Philippine collegiate sports on Monday as golf officially debuted in the UAAP, immediately reigniting the fierce Ateneo-La Salle rivalry on the fairways of Tagaytay Midlands in the opening round of the inaugural UAAP Season 88 Golf Tournament here.

Ateneo’s Monique Mendoza rebounded from a challenging frontside with a gutsy backside charge, salvaging an 81 to seize the lead in the women’s individual competition as University of the Philippines’ Annika Gozum stumbled with a late bogey, slipping from a share of the lead to solo second with an 82.

La Salle’s Julia Lua, who dominated last year’s inaugural ICTSI Intercollegiate Tournament and powered the Taft-based squad to the team championship, struggled

“I’m really happy with how I’ve been playing and the work I’ve been doing with my team,” she added. With her third-round performance, the-20-yearold Eala bagged €79,510 or P3.2 million in prize money and 65 ranking points, which hiked her live WTA rankings to No. 38. Eala now sets her sights on the doubles competition of the WTA 1000-level Italian Open as she joins forces with American Hailey Baptiste.

“I’m really happy to stay here in Rome and have a couple more days playing at this level,” said Eala. The Filipino-American duo got included in the main draw as first alternates following the lastminute withdrawal of Canada’s Leylah Fernandez and Italy’s Elisabetta Cocciaretto.

Eala (ranked No. 88 in doubles) and Baptiste (No. 129), teaming up for the first time, face a daunting task in the first round as they take on top-ranked players and second seeds Katerina Siniakova (No. 1) of Czech Republic and Taylor Townsend (No. 2) of USA on Tuesday.

in hot and windy conditions and limped home with an 86 for third place, while teammate Alexa Dacanay turned in an 87, followed by Ateneo’s Simi Tinio with an 88 and La Salle’s Donnabel Magsino with a 92. Ateneo’s Andie Joson shot a 94, while UST’s Deborah Escote had a 96. UP’s Ava Heredia and Ateneo’s Renee Heredia rounded out the Top 10 with 99 and 101, respectively. In the men’s division, La Salle’s Perry Bucay drained a clutch five-foot birdie putt on No. 17 to finish with a 72 and edge teammate Zachary Castro, who shot a 73, for a one-stroke lead in the individual race. UP’s Joshua Buenaventura and Miggy Roque stayed within striking distance after rounds of 74 and 75, respectively. La Salle’s Miguel Fusilero carded a 76 to share fifth place with Ateneo’s

However, La Salle was assessed a two-stroke penalty for a uniform infraction, raising the team’s total to 223 and trimming its lead over UP to just three strokes. Ateneo trailed in third with a 240 total after Juan Escano and Schmuel Tan shot 80 and 84, respectively. UST and Adamson, meanwhile, struggled with team totals of 261 and 370 in the five-school competition presented by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Wilson Philippines and Akari. the clay court, especially when you compare it to my experience here last year,” said Eala, who took down No. 45 Magdalena Frech of Poland, 6-0, 3-6, 6-4, and No. 33 Wang Xinyu of China, 6-4, 6-3, in the first two rounds.

Glenn Unabia, as the Green Archers seized control of the team standings in the four-to-count, three-to-play format with a 221 aggregate – five strokes ahead of UP, which tallied 226 with Emilio Carpio’s counting with a 77.

11 nations

Participants in LEC

10,000 jobs

Expected from Denmark projects

100 bridges

To be financed by France

8 more countries investing in Luzon Economic Corridor

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines, the United States, and Japan expanded the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) partnership to include Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, South Korea, Sweden and the United Kingdom to accelerate regional infrastructure and supply chains. Ayala secures $100-m loan from DBS Bank

Launched in April 2024 as the first Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment corridor in the IndoPacific, the LEC aims to strengthen connectivity across Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas.

The expanded group of partners underscored a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific through financing, technical assistance, and private sector investment.

Luzon Economic Corridor steering committee co-chair and Finance

Bohol operated by Cebu Pacific via 5J8811. The arrival signals a renewed interest from the Japanese market and underscores Bohol’s growing appeal as a premier destination for international travelers.

Secretary Frederick Go said the expansion demonstrates the power of collaboration among like-minded nations committed to transparency and shared prosperity.

Go said the nations are building infrastructure that will improve daily life for millions of Filipinos and create new opportunities across the region.

The participating nations pledged specific resources to the corridor. Australia will mobilize investments

through its Manila Deal Team and a P1.9 billion initiative on inclusive growth. Denmark will support shipbuilding modernization and green maritime innovation, with projects expected to generate 10,000 jobs.

France will finance 100 bridges and support aeronautics-related industrial development, while Italy will increase public financial support to attract private investments in transport, semiconductors and manufacturing.

South Korea committed a P1.5 billion grant for a National Cyber Security Center and the modernization of Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Sweden will fund a P74 million feasibility study for signaling systems and operations for the Subic-ClarkManila-Batangas freight railway.

The United Kingdom will deploy its Growth and Investment Partnerships toolkit, providing technical assistance and P411 billion in export finance for infrastructure and energy projects.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

MORE than 50 international and local firms have expressed interest in the Philippine Automated Fare Collection System (PAFCS) concession, signaling strong investor confidence in the country’s transport modernization program.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) reported the high turnout during a market sounding activity for the PAFCS, a key initiative under the

Public-Private Partnership Program.

This coincides with the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), which includes its own automated fare collection component and a broader Intelligent Transport Systems contract.

The project aims to establish an interoperable and secure fare collection system covering rail, bus and future transport modes. It is designed to support multiple fare media, including cards, QR codes and

By Thony Rose Lesaca

FOREIGN direct investment (FDI) net inflows to the Philippines dropped 30.99 percent to $590 million in February 2026 as geopolitical uncertainties and inflationary pressures weighed on investor appetite, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed Monday.

The latest figure was lower than the $855 million recorded a year earlier but represented a 33.18-percent increase from the $443-million net inflows seen in January.

A 39.12-percent contraction in nonresidents’ investments in debt instruments led the decrease in inflows, falling to $414 million in February from $680 million.

Total equity and investment fund shares rose 1.14 percent to $177 million from $175 million. This included $75 million in reinvested earnings and $101 million in net equity.

Union Bank of the Philippines chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion said the year-on-year decline stemmed from a combination of global and domestic headwinds.

“On the external side, still-elevated global interest rates and persistent geopolitical uncertainties— particularly tensions in the Middle East—have dampened risk appetite and encouraged firms to delay or scale back overseas investments, while softer global growth has weighed on export-oriented projects,” Asuncion said.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

AYALA Corp. said Monday it secured a $100-million sustainabilitylinked facility from DBS Bank, its first Singapore dollar-denominated hedged loan.

The facility, which allows for draws in Singapore dollar equivalents, will fund the development and expansion of Ayala’s core business sectors. The transaction helps the group diversify its funding sources and grow its sustainable finance portfolio during a period of global market volatility.

Ayala officials said the deal reflects strong market confidence in the company’s credit profile and long-term growth. The sustainability-linked structure aligns the group’s financing strategy with its environmental, social and governance commitments.

“This facility enables us to support Ayala’s growth initiatives while reinforcing our commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices,” Ayala Corp. chief finance officer Juan Carlos Syquia said.

“It also reflects Ayala’s ability to access funding at attractive terms under this challenging environment,” he said. By the end of 2025, the Ayala group had raised about $6.9 billion in sustainable financing. The company continues to integrate ESG metrics into its capital management strategy to attract regional investors.

Ayala Corp. executive-director and treasurer Estelito Biacora said the deal strengthens the company’s access to diversified funding and deepens regional partnerships.

mobile devices, enabling commuters to use a single payment option across different modes of transport.

DOTr Undersecretary for railways

Timothy John Batan expressed optimism over the turnout, noting that the activity aimed to acquaint prospective bidders with the project.

Batan said the participation reflects investor confidence in the Philippines despite challenging global headwinds.

“Over fifty companies in a market sounding is very encouraging, and we

look forward to a successful tender and award of this PAFCS concession,” Batan said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the DOTr to modernize public transportation infrastructure to deliver convenient transactions for commuters.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez cited the government’s commitment to prioritizing the riding public by ensuring the system is accessible and inclusive.

DA ramps up measures to protect farm output as strong El Niño looms

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is intensifying measures to protect farm output and food supply from a potentially strong El Niño event, Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said. The government is increasing interventions to help farmers minimize crop losses through climate adaptation,

“What we learned during the

El Niño will guide how we prepare and intervene this time around,” Tiu Laurel said. He said the DA is strengthening support under the National Rice Program and the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to cushion the impact on rice production and farmer incomes. Othel V. Campos

Robinsons Land’s profit hit P4.4b in Q1

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ROBINSONS Land Corp. reported Monday that its first-quarter net income grew 9 percent to P4.4 billion, driven by strong residential sales and steady growth in its recurring income portfolio.

Net income attributable to equity holders of the parent reached P3.54 billion for the January-to-March period, while consolidated revenues rose 11 percent to P12.28 billion. RLC president and chief executive Mybelle AragonGoBio said the results validate the company’s early decision to transition the portfolio toward recurring income while maintaining deep cash reserves. The company’s investment portfolio—which includes malls, offices, hotels, and logistics— remained the primary earnings driver, contributing 75 percent of total revenues. Revenue from these investment properties increased 8 percent year-over-year to P9.2 billion. Within that portfolio, the mall business saw a 7 percent revenue increase to P5.1 billion, supported by resilient consumer demand. Office revenues rose 8 percent to P2.2 billion on the back of stable occupancy and lease escalations. The hotel segment posted the strongest growth among investment properties, with revenues jumping 14 percent to P1.7 billion. This was fueled by international hotel brands and the NUSTAR integrated resort complex. Logistics revenues remained flat at P269 million. The development portfolio, which includes the residential business, recorded a 22 percent increase in revenues to P3.1 billion. Residential revenues specifically surged 39 percent to P2.7 billion, aided by improved project execution and higher revenue recognition.

The company said it remains on track to meet its “Vision 5:25:50” strategy targets, which focus on expanding recurring income streams despite current macroeconomic conditions. TUESDAY

PH stocks gain as bargain-hunting triggers bounce

LOCAL equities started the week in the green as investors hunted for bargains following a steep decline last Friday. The Philippine Stock Exchange Index rose during the morning session but failed to close above the 6,000 level. The PSEi ended Monday at 5,986.85, up 25.88 points or 0.43 percent, while the broader all shares index finished at 3,388.43, higher by 15.06 points or 0.45 percent. AB Capital Securities noted that the index staged a technical bounce after Friday’s 1.2 percent drop. While the market hit an intraday high of 6,033, gains were tempered by profit-taking in the afternoon. The brokerage said market resilience was notable despite uncertainty regarding U.S.Iran relations and a weak local macroeconomic backdrop. The property sector led the advance, rising 1.89 percent, followed by services at 0.85 percent and industrials at 0.42 percent. Financials inched up 0.04 percent. Conversely, mining and oil dropped 1.81 percent, while holding firms slipped 0.67 percent. Trading remained thin with value turnover at P5.05 billion, as many investors stayed on the sidelines due to the lack of a peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Foreign investors were net sellers, with outflows totaling P146.6 million. Puregold Price Club Inc. was the day’s top index gainer, rising 4.78 percent to P46, while DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was at the bottom, declining 5.4 percent to P12.96. Jenniffer B. Austria

OGP sold 31% of gold output to BSP in 2025

By Othel V. Campos

OceanaGold (Philippines) Inc.

sold 31 percent of its annual gold doré production to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in 2025, surpassing its 25 percent minimum commitment under a gold buying agreement with the central bank.

The sale of approximately 6,684 ounces is expected to strengthen the nation’s reserve buffer and support economic stability amid continued volatility in global markets.

Joan Adaci-Cattiling, OGP president and general manager for external affairs and social performance, said the continued sales reflect a commitment to reinforcing the country’s broader economic resilience. She noted that as a partner in responsible resource development, the company aims to contribute to the Philippines’ financial position and maximize the value of

precious metals. Under the current agreement, OGP committed to offer at least 25 percent of its annual gold doré production—a semi-pure alloy of gold mixed with other metals—to the BSP from March 2025 to March 2028. Adaci-Cattiling added that the partnership serves as tangible proof of how the mining industry can support long-term economic growth.

Since the initial agreement was signed in May 2022, OceanaGold has sold about 37,744.5 ounces of gold to the central bank. Previous

Top Line to spend P1b to expand Cebu depot, improve supply

By Jenniffer B. Austria

TOP Line Business Corp. plans to spend up to P1 billion to expand its depot capacity in Cebu to 40 million liters, the company announced Monday.

Eugene Erik Lim, Top Line chairman, president, and chief executive, told a press briefing that the expansion is part of the group’s strategy to scale up oil importation and support its vertical integration. The project will be funded through a planned P1.5 billion preferred shares offering scheduled for next month. According to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, construction is expected to begin in the third quarter of this year, with commercial operations slated for the first quarter of 2027. Top Line is currently evaluating potential sites in Cebu, with development costs estimated between P500 million and P1 billion depending on final capacity. The company’s existing depot currently holds 10 million liters. The proposed facility is intended to augment storage and improve supply chain efficiency.

Top Line also reported a 64.3 percent increase in first-quarter net income, which rose to P62.27 million from P37.89 million the previous year. Revenues jumped 75.4 percent to P1.76 billion, driven by a 43.4 percent climb in total fuel sales volume to 31.26 million liters.

Management attributed the strong performance to sustained demand from commercial accounts and the growth of its retail fuel business.

“Our first-quarter performance shows the strength and resilience of our business model,” Lim said. “Commercial fuel trade remains our anchor, providing recurring income while ensuring reliable fuel supply to industrial clients.” Commercial fuel trade remained the

primary revenue driver, contributing P1.62 billion—a 67 percent increase from P970 million in the same period last year. Segment volume grew 38 percent to 29.24 million liters.

The company’s retail segment, operating under the Light Fuels brand, posted tripledigit growth as it expanded into underserved areas in the Visayas. Retail revenues surged 332 percent to P137.20 million, while retail volume rose 220 percent to 2.03 million liters.

of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Mary

Professional

Philippines

Remembering the progressive car manufacturing program

Had the PCMP been pursued, you would today be riding a Philippine-made car, not a car produced by our Vietnamese friends.

THE sight of Vietnamese vehicles plying Philippine streets must be a source of chagrin and sadness for every Filipino who is knowledgeable about the martial law regime of President Ferdinand E. Marcos and the years immediately following that unique chapter in Philippine history.

The chagrin and the sadness will stem from the knowledge that this country would have started manufacturing—not merely assembling—motor vehicles—in the late 1980s if the martial law regime were not overthrown by the EDSA Revolution.

The first Philippine-manufactured cars would have rolled off the factory floors under the aegis of the Progressive Car Manufacturing Program (PCMP) that had been established by the Board of Investments (BOI) in the early 1970s. Upon its creation by the Investment Incentives Act of 1967, BOI started putting together a program for the manufacture of cars in this country.

Secretary of Finance Cesar Virata, BOI board of governors chairman Vicente Paterno and the other members of the government economic management team believed that it made little economic senses the Philippines, one of the major market for a cars in Southeast Asia, to continue merely assembling them in this country. For more economic benefits—more employment, higher incomes, enhanced productive skills and greater technology transfer—would accrue to the Philippine economy form the manufacture of cars in the Philippines. BOI was not content with the manufacture of cars in this county. After PCMP, it put together a Progressive Truck Manufacturing Program (PTMP) and a Progressive Motorcycle Manufacturing Program (PMMP).

Messrs Virata, Paterno and their colleagues had a very rational approach to the manufacture of cars in the Philippines. Since Philippine car imports came from numerous countries, and considering that the Philippines needed foreign direct investments (FDI) from as many countries as possible, they decided to divide the car manufacturing process into five parts and to award each part to a foreign manufacturer representing one of the three continents that exported cars to the Philippines, namely, North America Europe and Asia.

Much political and corporate lobbying was done by the foreign car companies and their governments in an effort to be included in the PCMP; indeed, Ford Motor Co. chairman Henry Ford II himself came to Manila to press his company’s case for inclusion.

In the end, after the most thorough analysis of the technological, political and marketing realities of the situation, BOI, with

and

of

Gold remains a critical component of central bank reserves, acting as a safe-haven asset during periods of global uncertainty. It also serves as a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, helping to preserve purchasing power and maintain macroeconomic stability.

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION

Company name: STEEL STRUCTURES DETAILING

PHILIPPINES INC.

SEC Registration Number: 2021050013487-05

Corporate TIN: 600-287- 397-000

INC. SEC Registration Number: 2021050013487-05 Corporate TIN: 600-287- 397-000

the concurrence of Malacanang, decided to award the five PCMP slots to Ford and General Motors (representing North America), Mitsubishi (representing Asia’s) and Renault (representing Europe). Ford Motor Co. was to take care of the vehicle bodies; it put up a stamping plant in Bataan.

As stated above, nothing more was heard of PCMP and BOI’s other progressive manufacturing programs after the EDSA Revolution. Most regrettably, the new government apparently decided that all the economic programs initiated by the Marcos regime were conceived on the basis of evil intentions and were therefore bad for this country.

So, dear countrymen, the next time you see or ride a Vietnamese car, shed a tear. Had the PCMP been pursued, you would today be riding a Philippine-made car, not a car produced by our Vietnamese friends.

(llagasjessa@yahoo.com).

NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

To All Stockholders:

To All Stockholders:

METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION

METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION

METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION

METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SHAREHOLDERS’ MEETING

Please be advised that the Annual Meeting of the Shareholders of METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION (the “Company”) for the year 2026 will be held virtually on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 11:00 am through a link that will be provided by the Company.

Please be advised that the Annual Meeting of the Shareholders of METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION (the “Company”) for the year 2026 will be held virtually on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 11:00 am through a link that will be provided by the Company.

Please be advised that the Annual Meeting of the Shareholders of METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION (the “Company”) for the year 2026 will be held virtually on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 10:00 am through a link that will be provided by the Company.

Please be advised that the Annual Meeting of the Shareholders of METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORPORATION (the “Company”) for the year 2026 will be held virtually on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 10:00 am through a link that will be provided by the Company.

Shareholders who wish to attend the meeting must inform the Company’s Corporate Secretary by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph no later than May 25, 2026.

Shareholders who wish to attend the meeting must inform the Company’s Corporate Secretary by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph no later than May 25, 2026.

Shareholders who wish to attend the meeting must inform the Company’s Corporate Secretary by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph no later than May 25, 2026.

Shareholders who wish to attend the meeting must inform the Company’s Corporate Secretary by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph no later than May 25, 2026.

The following shall be the agenda of the meeting:

The following shall be the agenda of the meeting:

The following shall be the agenda of the meeting:

I. Call to Order

I. Call to Order

The following shall be the agenda of the meeting: I.Call to Order

I.Call to Order

II.Certification of Notice and Quorum

II.Certification of Notice and Quorum

II. Certification of Notice and Quorum

II. Certification of Notice and Quorum

Please be informed that the Board of Directors of Asian Terminals, Inc. (ATI or the Company) approved the postponement of the Company’s 2026 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, set on 16 June 2026, to 3 July 2026 at 2pm, to provide the Company sufficient time to fully comply with various regulatory requirements and to complete the preparations for the ASM, including the addition of new items on proposed amendments to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, which will be disclosed in due course upon Board approval. The Information Statement for the meeting will be provided in due course to stockholders in accordance with rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Makati City, 08 May 2026.

Please be informed that the Board of Directors of Asian Terminals, Inc. (ATI or the Company) approved the postponement of the Company’s 2026 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, set on 16 June 2026, to 3 July 2026 at 2pm, to provide the Company sufficient time to fully comply with various regulatory requirements and to complete the preparations for the ASM, including the addition of new items on proposed amendments to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, which will be disclosed in due course upon Board approval. The Information Statement for the meeting will be provided in due course to stockholders in accordance with rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Makati City, 08 May 2026.

ASIAN TERMINALS, INC.

ASIAN TERMINALS, INC.

By:

By:

III.Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 30, 2025

III.Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 30, 2025

III. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 30, 2025

III. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 30, 2025

IV.Report of Management

IV. Report of Management

IV.Report of Management

IV. Report of Management

V.Approval of the 2025 Audited

V.Approval of the 2025 Audited Financial Statements

V. Approval of the 2025 Audited Financial Statements

V. Approval of the 2025 Audited Financial Statements

VI.Ratification of the Acts of the Board of Directors

VI. Ratification of the Acts of the Board of Directors and Management

VII. Election of Directors

VIII. Appointment of External Auditor of the Company for the year 2026

IX. Other business that may properly be brought before the meeting X. Adjournment

VI. Ratification of the Acts of the Board of Directors and Management VII. Election of Directors VIII. Appointment of External Auditor of the Company for the year 2026 IX. Other business that may properly be brought before the meeting X. Adjournment

The Company has fixed the close of business on April 29, 2026, as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting.

determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting.

The Company has fixed the close of business on April 29, 2026, as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting.

The Company has fixed the close of business on April 29, 2026, as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting.

Duly accomplished proxies shall be submitted on or before May 25, 2026 to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 9th Floor, Tower

Duly accomplished proxies shall be submitted on or before May 25, 2026 to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 9th Floor, Tower 1, Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City

Duly accomplished proxies shall be submitted on or before May 25, 2026 to the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 9th Floor, Tower 1, Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City and/or by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph. Validation of proxies is set on May 26, 2026.

Duly accomplished proxies shall be submitted on or before May 25, 2026 to the Office the Corporate Secretary at 9th Floor, Tower 1, Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City and/or by email to corsec@mpic.com.ph. Validation of proxies is set on May 26, 2026.

Shareholders shall vote electronically, subject to validation procedures. The rules and procedures participating in the meeting will be uploaded in the Company’s website.

(Sgd.) RODOLFO G. CORVITE, JR. Corporate Secretary

Shareholders shall vote electronically subject to validation procedures. The rules and procedures participating in the meeting will be uploaded in the Company’s website.

(Sgd.) RODOLFO G. CORVITE, JR. Corporate Secretary

UAE INVESTMENTS.

Trade and Industry

Undersecretary and Board of Investments

managing-head

Ceferino Rodolfo (third from

meets with Masdar and DAMAC Digital executives on May 4, 2026 to advance investment plans. These discussions follow the Philippines’ recent accession to the Pax Silica alliance and a partnership with the United States to establish a 4,000-acre

AI-native industrial acceleration hub in Luzon.

Asian firms see tokenized assets as future standard

By Thony Rose Lesaca

DIGITAL and tokenized assets are expected to become core market infrastructure in Asia as corporates and institutions anticipate wider adoption of digital finance technologies over the next five years, according to an HSBC survey released Monday.

In an independent survey of 1,200 businesses and institutional investors in Asia, HSBC found that more than nine in 10 respondents believe tokenized assets will become a standard in treasury operations within five years. Nearly

nine in 10 Asian respondents believe tokenization will expand the range of investable assets and improve market efficiency over time.

However, a gap between destination confidence and readiness persists. More than one in two respondents do not have enough knowledge to assess the impact of digital finance on their businesses, and 25 percent do not view digital finance as a priority or are awaiting clearer standards and regulation.

“While an overwhelming majority of decision-makers believe that the

IN BRIEF

DICT seeks IT experts for BARMM elections

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has opened nominations for sectoral representatives to join the Commission on Elections Advisory Council (CAC) to help select technology for the 2028 national and local elections.

The council plans to reconvene before the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections in September 2026 and the 2028 national vote.

Established under Republic Act 8436 and amended by Republic Act 9369, the body recommends the most costeffective automated election systems to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

“The mandate of the CAC is to help ensure free, honest, peaceful, and credible elections through sound and reliable election technology recommendations. Essentially, our role is to help safeguard one of our most sacred democratic rights – the right to vote,” DICT Secretary and CAC chairperson Henry Aguda said. Aguda chairs the council, which includes members from the Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Education. The body also includes a representative from the academe, two from nongovernmental electoral reform organizations and three from ICT professional organizations. Darwin G. Amojelar

SC junks environmental case vs. Hinatuan Mining

THE Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) welcomed a Supreme Court decision to dismiss a petition for a Writ of Kalikasan against Hinatuan Mining Corp. (HMC), saying the ruling reinforces the need for evidence-based litigation. The high court ruled that the petition failed to meet the required contents of a valid filing because it relied on generalized claims and unsubstantiated allegations. The court dismissed the case for insufficiency in form and substance, noting that a writ of kalikasan is an extraordinary remedy reserved for cases involving environmental

damage of massive magnitude supported by adequate evidence.

PNIA said in a statement the ruling marks a shift away from “sentimentdriven litigation” against regulated mining operations. The group noted that such operations have previously faced delays and reputational harm due to speculative claims.

The industry group said the decision underscores that environmental cases must be anchored on verifiable scientific evidence and pursued through established legal processes rather than conjecture.

The ruling strengthens regulatory stability by recognizing the role of administrative and technical agencies in addressing environmental concerns while upholding due process for compliant operations, according to PNIA.

Othel V. Campos

PNOC-EC sells state-secured

diesel to prevent blackout

THE Philippine National Oil Co. Exploration Corp. (PNOC-EC) began selling government-procured diesel on Monday to ensure a continuous power supply for remote and off-grid “missionary” areas served by the state-run National Power Corp.

Department of Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the sale of diesel secured by PNOC-EC at P80 per liter. The fuel will support power generation in areas not connected to the main grid.

The government price offers a slight discount compared to the National Capital Region, where diesel prices ranged from P80.76 to P103.40 per liter between May 5 and 11.

Under the government’s Emergency Energy Security Program, PNOC-EC will sell up to 45 million liters of diesel over the next three months to new power providers and microgrid system providers. The measure aims to sustain operations, prevent blackouts and shield consumers from sharp electricity rate hikes.

“Providing assistance for the diesel requirements of power providers serving missionary areas is a concrete and proactive measure to help protect electricity access and the welfare of thousands of Filipinos,” Garin said. Alena Mae S. Flores

ACEN to start building Australian solar farm

ACEN Corp. said Monday that its joint venture, Yindjibarndi Energy Corp (YEC), will begin construction on the Jinbi Solar Project in Western Australia after reaching financial close and signing a 30-year power purchase agreement with Rio Tinto.

The project is the first to move into the construction phase since YEC was established three years ago as a partnership between the Philippine-listed energy company and the Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corp.

Reaching financial close confirms that all funding, contractual arrangements and government approvals have been satisfied, it said.

ACEN Group chief investment officer Patrice Clausse said the project reflects a strong partnership between the company and the Yindjibarndi people.

“Jinbi demonstrates what is possible when traditional owner leadership

and disciplined project development align,” Clausse said.

He said ACEN is proud to work on a project that meets rigorous commercial standards while setting a benchmark for respectful renewable energy development in Australia. Under the long-term agreement, YEC will supply 100 percent of the electricity generated by the Jinbi facility to Rio Tinto. the power will support the decarbonization of Rio Tinto’s iron ore operations in the Pilbara region once the site becomes operational.

Stage 1 of the project involves a 75-megawatt solar facility. The partners maintain an option to expand the capacity to 150 megawatts, which may include the addition of battery energy storage systems depending on future development decisions and regulatory approvals. Alena Mae S. Flores

French company to build hydrogen power plants in PH

By Alena Mae S. Flores

HYDROGÈNE de France (HDF) Energy

Philippines plans to build commercial-scale hydrogen-integrated power plants in the country to provide stable renewable energy, the Department of Energy (DOE) said Monday.

The proposed Renewstable power plants combine solar power, lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen storage. These facilities aim to deliver non-intermittent baseload power by integrating renewable sources with on-site green hydrogen storage. HDF Energy is also developing infrastructure for the mass production of carbon-free hydrogen.

adoption of digital finance is poised to skyrocket, momentum isn’t matched by readiness,” HSBC head of banking for Asia and the Middle East Jo Miyake said.

In the Philippines, digital and tokenized finance is rapidly gaining ground due to high mobile wallet usage and a billion-dollar opportunity in asset tokenization by 2030.

HSBC said the Philippine government has already launched tokenized bonds which can be accessed for as low as P500. Regulatory bodies like the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also support the sector through sandbox initiatives for virtual assets.

DOE Hydrogen Energy Industry Committee chairperson and Undersecretary Alessandro Sales and vice chairperson and Undersecretary Ronald Conquilla met with HDF Energy representatives to discuss the projects.

The DOE said the engagement reaffirms its commitment to low-carbon alternative fuels and efficient energy technologies to bolster energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The DOE issued a circular in 2024 establishing a national policy and roadmap for hydrogen. Officials

noted that hydrogen could reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels with applications across the power, transportation and industrial sectors. Under this policy, hydrogen production using nuclear energy may be classified as an energy efficiency project.

Projects can access incentives under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, including income tax holidays and duty exemptions on equipment. Hydrogen used in fuel cell vehicles may also qualify for incentives under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act.

Last year, HDF Energy Philippines, the DOE and the Mindanao Development Authority signed a memorandum of understanding to drive research into locally produced green hydrogen.

The agreement supports government efforts to decarbonize the power sector as part of a comprehensive energy transition strategy.

validated and prepared for real-world and global application.

2GO, Ceres Liner team up for shuttle services

By Darwin G. Amojelar

TRANSPORT companies 2GO Group

Inc. and Vallacar Transit Inc. have launched a strategic partnership to provide seamless shuttle services connecting sea and land transportation across major Philippine gateways.

Under the agreement, the Ceres Liner operator will deploy dedicated shuttle buses to transport 2GO passengers directly from port terminals upon disembarkation.

The service debuted its first leg from Nasipit Port to the Ceres Terminal in Butuan City, with rollouts in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro expected to follow soon.

The integrated approach allows 2GO Travel passengers to reserve seats onboard before docking. This synchronization aims to streamline passenger movement, reduce waiting times, and align vessel arrivals with land transfers.

VTI vice-president for legal Collin Derk Isidto said the partnership strengthens access for passengers traveling to and from nearby provinces, making it easier for more Filipinos to connect to key ports and continue their journeys across islands.

“By improving connectivity between land and sea transport, we help enable more convenient and reliable inter-island travel,” Isidto said.

The collaboration reflects 2GO’s push to bolster its logistics and travel ecosystem by merging sea and land services.

PUREGOLD Price Club Inc. will host its largest Tindahan Ni Aling Puring (TNAP) Sari-Sari Store Convention from May 14 to 16 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, featuring a record 150 brand partners to support local micro-entrepreneurs.

The 2026 lineup represents a 23-percent increase from the previous year. Puregold officials said the expansion aims to provide sari-sari store owners direct access to a broader range of fast-moving consumer goods and emerging brands to help them navigate rising inflation.

Puregold president Vincent Co said the company secured high-volume stocks of essential and trending items to ensure members can replenish inventory without facing shortages.

“This year, we are going bigger because the need to support our MSMEs is greater than ever,” Co said.

“By bringing in over 150 partners,

we’ll be able to secure the necessary inventory of both staple and emerging brands for our sari-sari store owners so that tuloy-tuloy ang negosyo at kita,” he said.

The convention serves as a one-stop shop for business growth, offering exclusive P88 bundle packs and 25-kilo rice sacks for P999. Attendees using the P-wallet for inventory purchases will also receive enhanced cashback rewards to maximize their capital.

The event schedule reserves the first day for TNAP members and the second day for PERKS members, while the final day is open to the general public. Beyond retail opportunities, the three-day gathering includes business seminars led by experts, networking sessions and performances by Filipino musical artists.

“At Puregold, we don’t just sell products; we partner with the Filipino entrepreneur,” Co said.

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

Local communities to lead climate actions

Legarda says early response key to avoiding disaster risks

THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) and Senator Loren Legarda stressed the importance of stronger anticipatory action legislation to strengthen resilience and preparedness against the impacts of climate change and protect vulnerable communities.

In her keynote speech at the Asian Conference on Climate Change and Disaster Resilience, Legarda said policy reforms must shift climate governance from reactive disaster response toward systems that enable early and science-based action, especially through institutionalized financing and preparedness mechanisms. “We must tear down the firewall between ‘relief’ and ‘readiness.’ Our national budget has long treated climate finance as a post-mortem expense. We allocate billions for after, but pennies for just before. We need to activate resources for anticipatory use.”

Legarda said legislative innovation must play a central role in advancing anticipatory response, ensuring that communities and other vulnerable groups are better equipped before disasters strike.

“I propose that we move toward a model of ‘Conditional Early Action.” This means pre-positioning funds in the accounts of local governments— not for rebuilding schools, but for retrofitting them.”

“And we need to recognize that vulnerability is not uniform. Women, indigenous communities, the elderly, the PWDs and those in geographically isolated areas face differentiated and compounded risks. Anticipatory finance must be redesigned to reach them first and not last,” Legarda said. CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje said anticipatory climate action means that we should not think about how often we can rebuild, but how we rarely are destroyed.CCC News

Conclusion

CCC, Netherlands search ways to push nature-based solutions

THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Netherlands led by Ambassador Marielle Geraedts are exploring ways to advance naturebased solutions (NBS) as a key strategy for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

At a meeting held at the CCC, both parties highlighted opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation on climate action, especially in scaling up ecosystems-based approaches that reduce climate risks while supporting sustainable development.
“Naturebased solutions are among the most powerful and practical responses to the climate crisis,” said CCC vice chairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje.

“By working with ecosystemsbased approaches such as protecting forests, restoring wetlands and rehabilitating coastal areas, we not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also strengthen our natural defenses against climate impacts,” he said.

THE Jollibee Group received the 3G Excellence in Sustainability Reporting Award 2026, marking the second consecutive year that the company has been recognized for its sustainability reporting efforts.

Presented by Cambridge International Finance Advisory (Cambridge IFA), the 3G Awards recognize organizations, institutions and leaders that make governance, sustainability and social responsibility a strategic priority.

The latest recognition affirms the Jollibee Group’s continued commitment to transparent, credible and standards-aligned reporting in tracking its sustainability progress under Joy for Tomorrow, the company’s global sustainability agenda.

Launched in 2022, Joy for Tomorrow is anchored on three pillars: Food, People and Planet. These pillars guide the group’s efforts across areas, such as food quality and safety, nutrition and transparency, responsi-

Both parties identified potential areas of collaboration, including participation in ASEAN–Netherlands cross-learning initiatives on climate adaptation and NBS, aimed at facilitating the exchange of technical expertise and best practices across the region.

The discussions are aligned with the Philippines’ National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2023–2050, which identifies the scaling up of nature-based solutions as a key cross-sectoral strategy, as well as the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which outlines the country’s commitment to greenhouse gas emissions reduction and climate resilience.

The Netherlands, recognized globally for its expertise in water management, climate adaptation and integrated, nature-based approaches to flood risk reduction, expressed its support for a strengthened partnership with the Philippines through knowledge sharing, capacity-building and innovative solutions.CCC News

THE Philippines is reinforcing its program to tap communities in leading the fight against climate change, biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP), along with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and partners, officially launched the Eighth Operational Phase of the

Shown during the ceremonial signing of the Responsible Party Agreement for the Eighth Operational Phase of the Small Grants Program are (from left) Christophe Bahuet, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program Philippines; Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Analiza Rubuelta-Teh; and Jose Andres Canivel, Executive Director of Forest Foundation Philippines. Blue Motus/UNDP Philippines

Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program (SGP8).

The Small Grants Program for over three decades has demonstrated the transformative role of communities, especially Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, farmers and fisherfolk, in driving sustainable development.

Since 1992, SGP Philippines has supported grassroots initiatives that protect ecosystems, strengthen livelihoods and build resilience to climate and disaster risks.

The program places communities at the center of decision-making, ensuring inclusive participation and stronger local ownership of development solutions.

The launch was marked by the ceremonial signing of the Responsible Party Agreement between UNDP and the Forest Foundation Philippines, which will lead the implementation of SGP8 in the country.

SGP8 builds on its gains by adopting a more integrated landscape and seascape approach, linking ecosystem protection with

livelihoods and governance.

“The Small Grants Program (SGP) demonstrates what effective, community led partnerships can achieve. SGP OP8 will strengthen community voice through inclusive governance, protects ecosystems, and helps finance reach the beneficiaries in predictable, flexible ways,” said Christophe Bahuet, UNDP Resident Representative in the Philippines.

“With support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), UNDP and the Forest Foundation Philippines will bring positive changes to the communities,” he said.

SGP8 will focus on scaling up proven solutions such as biodiversity-friendly enterprises, nature-based approaches, clean energy and sustainable food systems, while strengthening linkages to policies, financing, and markets to ensure long-term impact.

The program will continue to leverage multi-stakeholder platforms, including Landscape and Seascape Round Tables, to promote collaboration among government, civil society and the private sector. This approach aims to strengthen coordination, enhance knowledge sharing, and ensure that community voices shape decision-making processes.

The launch also convened representatives from national government agencies, local governments, civil society organizations and community groups, reflecting a wholeof-society approach to addressing the country’s most pressing environmental challenges.

As climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation intensify, SGP8 positions the Philippines to further scale locally driven solutions that contribute to national and global sustainable development goals.

UNDP Philippines News

ble sourcing, customer welfare and satisfaction, employee welfare, farmers’ livelihood and communities, good governance, packaging and recycling, emissions and water management, and waste reduction.

The latest citation reinforces that the group’s sustainability efforts are advancing across these pillars and are being recognized as credible, measurable, and aligned with global standards. It also builds on the Jollibee Group’s earlier

3G recognitions, including the 3G Excellence in Sustainability Reporting Award 2025 and the 3G Championship Award for Community Development and Philanthropy 2024.

“We are honored to receive the 3G Excellence in Sustainability Reporting Award 2026 for the second consecutive year, alongside the 3G Championship Award for Service Excellence 2026,” said Pepot Miñana, global chief sustainability and public affairs officer.

Five ways you can help protect coral reefs on your

When booking a dive or snorkel trip, choose operators that explain their operating procedures and demonstrate how they avoid damaging corals.

Be mindful of what you do in the water You’ve picked a responsible tour operator but your job isn’t quite done. There are still a few simple things you can do to protect corals once you arrive at your destination. First, choose your sunscreen carefully. Some have toxic properties that can kill marine species. Others can interfere with their reproduction, immune systems and resilience, with some of this fallout lasting multiple

generations. That’s why Reef-World recommends using sunscreens that only have non-nano zinc oxide or titanium oxide as active ingredients. Tourism can become part of the solution to the ocean crisis when operators, communities and travellers work together to protect marine ecosystems. Second, when you’re on holiday, bring your own reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics, which often wind up in the ocean as litter. You can also take part in regular beach and underwater cleanups, following Green Fins’ cleanup guidelines. Third, when swimming, snorkelling, or diving make sure you don’t stand on corals. Do not

chase, touch or feed any marine life. Feeding fish can cause them to rely on handouts or become sick, among other things. Also, maintain neutral buoyancy when diving so you do not crash into reefs or stir up sediment that can smother coral.

Finally, never buy coral souvenirs and only eat fish that has been sustainably caught. Become a citizen scientist and help monitor coral health in a warming world As global warming drives up ocean temperatures, corals are in the crosshairs. Mass coral bleaching in 2023 and 2024 showed how quickly warming seas can transform vibrant reefs into ghostly landscapes. In response, Green Fins, PADI

The latest recognition affirms the Jollibee Group’s continued commitment to transparent, credible and standards-aligned reporting in tracking its sustainability progress under Joy for Tomorrow, the company’s global sustainability agenda.

AWARE Foundation and the United States of America’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration launched a global campaign to monitor coral bleaching. As a diver, snorkeler or dive operator, you can use this toolkit to educate yourself about coral bleaching and take part in monitoring the next bleaching event. You can even collect and submit monitoring data. That can help with the management of coral reefs, and allow local conservation officials to better understand the most vulnerable and most resilient coral hotspots. UNEP News

TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Kris Lawrence open to future with Katrina Halili

Shticks

Joseph Peter

Gonzales

IN a recent interview, Katrina Halili and Kris Lawrence addressed the growing speculations that they have rekindled their romance, especially after posting photos and videos together on social media alongside their daughter, Katie

Their recent appearances together quickly fueled online chatter, with many fans wondering if the former couple had decided to give their relationship another shot.

“For the record, we haven’t,” Kris stated. “We’re not back in each other’s arms, as some people think.”

Despite this, the R&B singer admitted he is grateful that he and Katrina have been given another opportunity to spend time together, something he believes has made a positive difference for their daughter.

“I’m simply thankful for this time that we have together because honestly, since we became okay this 2026, Katie has been probably the best that I’ve seen her. For one, her smile has been more genuine. Her movements improved. You could just tell that she’s so much happier!” Kris said that their present co-parenting arrangement has become beneficial not only for Katie but also for their relationship as parents. For him, the important thing is that they are now in a better place compared to previous years when communication between them was more limited.

“We’re doing all these for Katie. Where the road leads, we don’t know. But at least, it’s fun!”

Their recent trip to El Nido became one of the biggest talking points among fans online, with many interpreting it as proof that the two were reconciling. Katrina, however, described the getaway differently, calling it more of a reset in their friendship after years of distance and brief interactions.

“It’s some kind of a reset,” she averred. “It’s our first time to bond that long as compared to previously when it was short and limited before Kris flew to the US. Now, we’re really talking and we’re together for a longer period of time.”

Kris likewise stressed that what people are seeing on social media is not manufactured for publicity or content.

“Definitely, it’s not scripted. Everything that is rolling is like reality.”

Asked if they are both single at the moment, the pair answered at the same time: “Yes!”

For Katrina, there is no need to rush things or place pressure on whatever setup they currently have. She maintained that they are simply appreciating the present and the chance to spend meaningful time together again.

“As of now, we are just enjoying each other’s company.”

In a vlog interview last February, Kris said he remains open to reconciling with Katrina if both are still single in the next 10 years. *

ACCORDING to Miguel Tanfelix , his relationship with current steady Ysabel Ortega is very stable.

“We are very happy. We’ve been together for three years now. I really love Ysabel!”

Doesn’t he feel scared now that they’re stable?

“I would rather choose to be stable instead of the opposite. For me and Ysabel, we are in the process of enriching our life experiences, letting ourselves mature more before we step forward. We mutually believe that we need to be whole first before entering a more serious phase.”

Interestingly, do they already talk about marriage, like what age they should tie the knot?

“I think early to mid-30s is ideal. So, it’s still a long way to go. We still have a lot of things to accomplish first!” ends Miguel.

‘Drug War’ series seeks to reopen conversation on painful chapter of recent history

ANEW Philippine drama is revisiting one of the country’s most divisive recent periods, with its creators saying the aim is not to settle arguments but to open space for difficult conversations.

The six-part series, produced by Rein Entertainment and KC Global Media, is still being positioned for wider international distribution.

The series comes as the Philippines continues to debate the legacy of formerpresident Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug

“There is a part of us as storytellers to tell the stories of the people that we heard,” director Shugo Praico told Manila Standard Entertainment during a private screening of Drug War: A Conspiracy of Silence in Mandaluyong City.

“The featured characters represent the people whose stories deserve to be told not only in the Philippines but also internationally. It’s a critical period in our history. It’s a story that we shouldn’t forget, and it should be heard by our countrymen,” the director added.

campaign, which human rights groups say was marked by thousands of deaths.

Praico said the writing process took more than a year and was shaped by interviews and research.

“It took more than a year of basa, interviews, discussion. Pero pinaka guide namin is emotional truth,” he said. “Maraming characters pinag-halo-halo from different perspectives.”

Actor Ian Veneracion, who plays one of the lead characters, Father Tom, said he joined the project immediately after

THE Devil Wears Prada 2 withstood a strong challenge from Mortal Kombat II to remain atop the North American box office for a second week running, industry estimates showed Sunday.

The hotly anticipated sequel to the 2006 smash hit about the cutthroat world of high fashion, starring Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci million in U.S. and Canadian theaters, Exhibitor Relations reported.

That puts the worldwide total for the Disney/20th Century film at a whopping $433 million.

Streep won a Golden Globe and received an Oscar nomination for best supporting actress for her initial turn as the imperious magazine editor Miranda Priestly, who is not so subtly based on longtime Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour

Mortal Kombat II, a Warner Bros. sequel based on the popular martial arts fantasy video game, debuted in second place with $40 million.

Michael, the biopic about late music superstar Michael Jackson, dropped to third place but still took in $36.5 million.

The Lionsgate movie, which chronicles the legendary artist’s rise from child star to one of the world’s most famous pop icons but does not include any material about allegations of sexual abuse, has earned more than $575 million at the global box office. Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, stars his uncle in his first acting role.

The Sheep Detectives, a familyfriendly mystery film from Amazon MGM, debuted in fourth place with $15.9 million. The film stars Hugh

reading the script.

“I’m proud of this project. After reading the script— despite the schedules—I felt like I had to be a part of this. We have to tell this story. It’s the story of our people, history, and our humanity,” Veneracion said. “It raises a lot of questions, and ‘yun ang gusto natin, to ask ourselves about the policies.”

Veneracion said the series does not aim to provide conclusions on the drug war but to present different viewpoints.

“We are here to point out different perspectives — that is our intention,” he said. “We want to show different perspectives through these characters on how to fix the drug problem, whether it’s to rehabilitate or punish them.”

He added that the series revisits a period that continues to shape public discourse.

The drug war was a chilling part of our history. It is something I believe should not be forgotten,” he said.

In the series, Veneracion portrays a priest running a rehabilitation center in a province who becomes entangled in a death involving a former drug user played by Harvey Bautista He described the role as emotionally demanding, particularly in portraying a man struggling with his faith.

“I wanted to understand his faith, which is shaken because of what is happening,” he said. “He starts to question if he can still stand by what he believes.”

Praico said the goal is to encourage dialogue rather than deliver answers.

“We are not here to solve problems or give answers,” he said. “We are here to show different perspectives. Through that, there is understanding. There is catharsis.”

Veneracion agreed, saying the value of the project lies in conversation rather than persuasion.

“What we want is for people to talk about it. Through that, we hope people understand each other better,” he said.

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

By Jasper Valdez

MAINSTREAM crossover Esnyr Ranollo is aware that many viewers know him for comedy, but his role in The Secrets of Hotel 88 is giving him room to show something different.

P E O P L E

At the mystery series’ midseason press conference on May 5, the actorcontent creator admitted he felt nervous when he first read the script for the heavier scenes involving his character, Raphie Salcedo.

“Actually, I got scared when I read the script because there was a scene like that. At first, everything felt fun and playful. But I’m also very grateful that finally, I can do more than just provide lightness to the story.”

With the story digging further into the mysteries inside Hotel 88, Esnyr said Raphie is no longer there only to lighten the mood.

“Maybe this is what people have been waiting for. What if Raphie is going through something deeper than that?” he said.

Esnyr also shared that he avoided watching his own dramatic scene because he felt awkward seeing himself from that perspective.

“I didn’t want Direk to play the video. I didn’t look at the screen. I didn’t preview it because I cringed at myself,” he said.

experience with premium steak

A GROWING number of Filipinos, including celebrities, are bringing restaurant-style dining into their own kitchens as premium ingredients become more accessible for home cooking. Instead of frequent dining out, many are choosing to recreate high-end meals at home, with steak dishes emerging as a popular centerpiece.

ribeye

along with chicken, pork and seafood such as

shrimp, scallops, and mussels. It also carries ready-to-cook items like siomai, dumplings, and hakaw for quicker

preparation. Industry observers say the appeal lies in both convenience and control. With easier access to restaurant-grade ingredients, home cooks, including public figures with busy schedules, can prepare meals that match diningout quality without stepping outside. What was once limited to special occasions is also shifting. Premium ingredients like steak are increasingly viewed as part of everyday eating rather than luxury items. This change is especially visible among younger urban households, where cooking at home is tied to both lifestyle and wellness choices.

Health considerations are also shaping the trend. More Filipinos are paying closer attention to nutrition, and

and

or

No longer just the funny one

Still, he credited the show’s director for helping him through the scene and bringing out a side of him that viewers may not usually see.

“But I’m confident that Direk was able to bring something out of me. We were able to show more,” he said.

Known online for his humor and quick wit, Esnyr said the project also gave him his first experience with method acting as he tried to get into the right headspace for a more serious scene. He recalled listening to sad songs before going on set for one particular sequence.

“I’ll share this. One time when I arrived on set, I ignored everyone first. I was playing sad songs. I even made a playlist for that crying scene,” he said. “At first, I was laughing at myself, wondering why I was doing it. But at the same time, I realized, so this is what it feels like to be an actor.”

While he still carried his usual wit during the press conference, Esnyr teased that Raphie has more to reveal as the series continues.

“In PBB , we used to hide eggs. Here, we’re hiding a lot of things,” he quipped.

For Esnyr, The Secrets of Hotel 88 has also become a learning experience he hopes to bring into his future projects, including his YouTube series.

“I gained experience from this, a learning experience that I can apply to the projects I’ll be doing soon, including my YouTube series,” he said.

Esnyr Ranollo steps outside his

MAX’S Restaurant is rolling out Sesame Street-themed birthday parties in a move aimed at families seeking more convenient and experience-driven celebrations.

The new offering features characters from Sesame Street, including Big Bird, Elmo, and Cookie Monster, with activities designed around the franchise’s educational and interactive approach to play.

According to Max’s, the themed parties combine entertainment and learning through games and activities meant to encourage curiosity, kindness, and confidence among children.

Each celebration includes party hosting, decorations, food, cake, lighting and sound systems, as well as party kits. The restaurant chain said packages can also be customized depending on the needs of families.

Party packages include food, party kits, lighting and sound systems, a host, decorations, and cake. Customization options are also available to match different preferences, allowing families to arrive, relax, and enjoy the event.

The Sesame Street Birthday Party experience is now available in 30 Max’s Restaurant branches across Metro Manila and Luzon. Booking inquiries may be made through the official Max’s Restaurant website and social media pages.

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

White Party Manila

Manila White Party reignites as Pride Month’s biggest, most iconic celebration

By Nickie Wang

WHITE Party Manila was once an annual event that a lot of people anticipated, especially those who are members and allies of the LGBT community. The Pridethemed street party that began in the early 2000s became one of the country’s most recognizable LGBT events, especially in Malate, Manila.

Known for its all-white dress code, it grew into a large celebration that combined music, performances, and advocacy for LGBT visibility and equality. It also served as both a nightlife gathering and a platform for awareness on gender and inclusion issues, often held during Pride Month.

Over time, it became a cultural fixture in Manila’s queer community before going on hiatus for more than a decade.

Now, after a 12-year hiatus, the community’s most anticipated celebration is returning on June 27 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. With a renewed purpose and a promise of a bigger celebration, it returns under the title

White Party Manila: Reignite Mentorque Productions president and CEO Bryan Dy officially announced the return during a grand media launch held over the weekend. Dy described the 2026 edition as a renewed chapter for the event, which had been in hibernation for 12 years. He said the event will bring together fashion, music, and advocacy in one immersive experience where “fashion meets rave and self-expression takes center stage.”

“After 12 years, this feels like the right moment to bring back White Party Manila. There’s a renewed energy within the community, along with stronger support from allies who want to be part of it,” Dy told

More than shopping

Ayala Malls Arca South brings a different kind of mall experience in Taguig

By Angelica Villanueva

IN many parts of Metro Manila, malls have long functioned as more than shopping centers, serving as meeting places, dining hubs, and shared public spaces woven into daily life.

That idea sits at the center of Ayala Malls Arca South, which opened this week in Taguig as Ayala Land’s first “new-generation” estate mall, designed around how people move through everyday routines rather than around traditional retail formats alone.

Set within the company’s emerging Arca South estate, the development moves away from the enclosed mall model that has shaped much of urban retail in the country. Instead, the space unfolds through open walkways, outdoor dining areas, coffee spaces, and flexible gathering spots intended to encourage people to linger rather than simply pass through.

“When we think about what we feel a mall should be today, we don’t start with stores. We start with how people should live, the rhythm of their day, the moments they look forward to, the small rituals that make everyday life a little bit better,” Ayala Malls chief operating officer Paul Birkett said during the opening program.

Manila Standard Life

“This is not just about reviving a party but creating a space where people can come together, celebrate, and reconnect,” he added. Dy also stressed the event’s advocacy focus, particularly efforts to address misinformation about HIV. The comeback is in partnership with LoveYourself Philippines, a nonprofit organization that promotes sexual health awareness, testing, and community support.

“With the reach of social media, we can extend that message beyond one night, bringing communities together both on-ground and online. Bringing White Party Manila back now signals unity, inclusivity, and a shared responsibility to uplift and inform each other,” Dy stated.

LoveYourself Philippines will benefit from a portion of the proceeds, which will support HIV awareness programs, testing, care, and research.

“Pride is not only celebrated, but it is also protected,” said Ronivin Pagtakhan, CEO and founder of LoveYourself, during the event as he spoke about the message the partnership aims to carry.

Vice Ganda and LGBTQIA+ personalities such as John Sweet Lapus, KaladKaren, Ice Seguerra, Liza Dino, Joey Mead-King, Angie King, Andoy Ranay, Alex Diaz, Klea Pineda, and Mimiyuuuh will join the festivities. Allies, including Janella Salvador and Chie Filomeno, as well as LoveYourSelf ambassadors and volunteers such as Joy Barcoma and Hannah Arnold are also among those taking part in the celebration.

Some of the acts lined up for the event include Ben&Ben, Maki, Marina Summers, and Gloc-9 Streetwear designer Bang Pineda will also unveil the White Party Manila Collection. Tickets are now available via Ticket2Me.net, the official ticketing partner.

planned around the idea that retail spaces should feel integrated into the communities around them rather than operating as isolated commercial centers.

“At Ayala Malls, we have learned that retail works best when it becomes part of people’s everyday routine. By giving people more reasons to come often, stay longer, and move naturally through the space, we create stronger conditions for our merchants to be discovered, visited, and woven into the life of the community,” Birkett added.

That philosophy is visible throughout the property’s layout. Open-air corridors connect a series of zones intended for different parts of the day. Fresh Grounds, described as the company’s first dedicated coffee roastery zone, functions as both café hub and meeting point, while Main Street opens into a flexible outdoor area lined with food trucks, dining spots, and green spaces meant for lingering rather than rushing through.

“It

they serve and deeply connect to the communities around them,” Birkett explained.

While additional phases are still

Inside The Crates, a section devoted to smaller merchants and specialty products, shelves carry locally made items ranging from baked goods to pantry staples.

Birkett singled out small businesses and independent

makers as part of the mall’s