Manila Standard - 2026 May 14 - Thursday

Bato to peers: Don’t rush to imprison me

By Alena Mae S. Flores

continue to enforce an existing “oil quarantine” against Venezuela.

PBBM vetoes P92.5b

House transmits impeachment raps to Senate

By Maricel V. Cruz and Vito Barcelo

THE House of Representatives transmitted the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Senate last night. Next page

PBBM: Unmask Senate gunmen

unprogrammed funds

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay

By Rio N. Araja

By Charles Dantes, Thony Rose Lesaca, Ram Superable, Maricel Cruz and Vito Barcelo

PTthis

its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.

General Rommel Francisco Mar bil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma.

gressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.

SENATE TENSIONS.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said there will be a joint investigation of the Senate and the Philippine National Police after Wednesday night’s exchange of gunfire in the Upper Chamber.

Mr. Marcos called for calm even as he did not rule out any possibility that may explain the almost 20 gunshots that triggered chaos at the Senate.

“We will find out who is behind this mess. Is this really an encounter, or is this part of a destab or efforts to trigger unrest?” the commander-inchief said in a video message.

“The government is not behind this. No soldier, no personnel of the National Bureau of Investigation entered the Senate,” Mr. Marcos added.

The President categorically denied the government ordered the arrest of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa amid a standing warrant from the International Criminal Court.

The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Com missioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.

Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption with in the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.

By Charles Dantes

Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, together with several senators, hold a brie ng with media on the shooting incident inside the Senate building. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., left inset, calls for calm and orders an investigation in a video statement. Right inset shows a phalanx of policemen blocking the main Senate gate while a crowd of supporters of Sen. Bato dela Rosa hold vigil. ABS-CBN/ PCO/ Joshua Isaac Espanol

Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in

By Maricel V. Cruz

with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.

Philippine Air Force Major General Romeo Poquiz was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on charges of inciting to sedition but was later released after posting bail.

Lawyer Raymond Fortun questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.

Poquiz posted bail of P48,000 as set by the court and was subsequently freed.

Mr. Marcos said he ordered the NBI to stand down after the Supreme Court issued a resolution Wednesday afternoon directing parties to comment on Dela Rosa’s petition to stop the implementation of the ICC arrest warrant.

“I told the NBI to leave and they complied. So when I spoke with NBI Director Melvin Matibag, he said the NBI is no longer in the Senate,” he said.

million in standby fund is also available for utilization by the DSWD, including P123 million which can be allotted as Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the central office of the DSWD. In Batanes, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised residents to secure their roofs and install window shutters as Typhoon Julian is expected to make landfall

The President noted the identity of all uniformed personnel seen inside the Senate -police on crowd control and security duty and Marines permanently assigned to the Senate. He also identified a third group seen in civilian clothing carrying long firearms as personnel from the Senate Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA).

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

“’So everyone that you saw who are uniformed or armed are assigned to the Senate,” he said. Mr. Marcos said he has already spoken with Senate President Alan Cayetano, who also talked to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla who arrived at the Upper Chamber around past 8 p.m. Cayetano confirmed the conversation with the President.

of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.

congressmen, calling their probe “unacceptable.”

However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions about Yang recklessly.

By Darwin Amojelar TRANSPORTATION

Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members. cious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story.

“Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added.

‘‘The case was investigated and pieces of evidence were referred and forwarded to the prosecution, and the court found probable cause. This was a result of the work of the prosecution service and now he will be tried. That’s the process; there’s nothing personal,’’ a police official said.

The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.

“(Defense) Secretary Gibo Teodoro called us and President Marcos called us, assuring us it wasn’t government, and asking us how we are...

THE Philippine government on Sunday publicly called for the United Nations (UN) to give it a seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting the country’s strong record and dedication to upholding the rule

Department

Trump to ask Xi to open up China to US firms

Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.

pated summit between Trump and Xi.

He has a standing arrest warrant issued by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 77 on December 5, 2025, for inciting to sedition.

The case stemmed from his earlier call for the armed forces to rise against the government during anti-corruption rallies in November last year.

The resolution was received by the House Bills and Index Service Tuesday, May 12, which requested the House Committees on Public Order and Safety, Information and Communications Technology and

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said. Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

Poquiz’s lawyers criticized the police over the arrest, but police officials

CROSSING party lines, a total of 41 lawmakers have filed House Resolution (HR) 1006 seeking a congressional inquiry into alleged robbery extortion activities involving Peanut Gallery Media Network, or PGMN, following concerns that online platforms may be used for intimidation, coercion, disinformation and alleged financial demands under the guise of media or public commentary.

“Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

On Friday, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.

US President Donald Trump said he would ask Xi Jinping to “open up” China to American firms as he headed to Beijing on Wednesday for a highstakes summit that will also bring up the Iran war.

Poquiz said the police force should follow due process and enforce law without fear or favor.

He underwent booking procedures at Camp Crame after his arrest and was presented before the court that issued the warrant.

“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue

The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.

Meanwhile, in Seoul, top Chinese and US negotiators discussed “resolving” trade friction between their economies as they met for talks on Wednesday, setting up a highly antici-

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said the arrest of the retired officer was carried out through lawful means, reflecting the

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Bei jing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.

By Peter Atencio

“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to under stand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audi ence, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said.

Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but even tually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord -

Admiral Roy Vin -

In a sign of Trump’s focus on business, Nvidia chief Jensen Huang boarded Air Force One during a stopover in Alaska, with Tesla’s Elon Musk also travelling on the presidential plane to China.

During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.

global challenges.”

Quoted by reports, Manalo also said: “The Philippines has consistently pursued peace, the sovereign equality of states, the rights and dignity of all persons.”

He added that the country is also recognized as the “first Asian Re-

A host of other top CEOs, including Apple’s Tim Cook, will also be in Beijing for the visit, the first by Next page

“I will be asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to ‘open up’ China so that these brilliant people can work their magic, and help bring the People’s Republic to an even higher level!” Trump wrote on social media after departing Washington. Other topics the US president is expected to discuss with Xi include the Iran war, Taiwan and artificial intelligence.

Palace appoints Jed Mabilog as DILG Usec

By Charles Dantes

MALACAÑANG on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of former Iloilo City mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog as an undersecretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), marking his return to government service years after he went into selfexile during the Duterte administration.

Mabilog served as mayor of Iloilo City from 2010 to 2019 and was once among the local officials publicly accused by former president Rodrigo

and to make sure the investigation is independent,” Cayetano said.

‘Armed men entered Senate’

In their joint media interview late Wednesday evening, Remulla and Cayetano confirmed that OSAA personnel, who were seen in various television reports donning bullet proof vests and carrying long firearms before the shooting, fired warning shots first after spotting armed men at the 2nd floor of the legislative complex. They said the armed men fired back, with at least 16 shots counted in one video footage.

No OSAA personnel or Senate staff were injured, they said.

“The President has given strict instructions: secure the senators. We are not here to arrest Senator dela Rosa, in fact, we are here to protect him,” Remulla said.

“We do not know who is behind this but we will find them. We have all the security footage and I’m here with the Senate President to assure him that we are only doing this to secure them,” he added.

Cayetano said the operation to apprehend the armed men is ongoing.

Cayetano said the chamber remains committed to protecting Dela Rosa while his legal options regarding the potential arrest remain active.

“Senator Bato dela Rosa has been informed that we are doing a sweep of the building. He has informed us that he wants to rest in his chambers. He is safe. He is with the security personnel.

a US president to China in nearly a decade.

But Trump’s ambitions to ramp up trade will have to contend with political frictions over Taiwan and the war in the Middle East, which already delayed the trip from March.

As he departed the White House, Trump said he expected a “long talk” with Xi about Iran, which sells most of its US-sanctioned oil to China.

But he also downplayed disagreements, telling reporters that “I don’t think we need any help with Iran” from China and that Xi had been “relatively good” on the topic.

The Chinese foreign ministry said Wednesday it “welcomes” Trump’s visit and that “China stands ready to work with the United States ... to expand cooperation and manage differences.” Yet Beijing is growing impatient for peace, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi urging his Pakistani counterpart on Tuesday to step up mediation efforts between Iran and the United States.

This week’s trip — the first since Trump visited Beijing in 2017 — will involve highly anticipated talks with Xi on Thursday and Friday, as well as lavish pomp and ceremony.

The packed itinerary includes a state banquet in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People and a tea reception.

Trump said Monday he would speak to Xi about US arms sales to Taiwan, the self-governing democracy claimed by China — a departure from historic

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Public Information to look into the matter.

“When a group allegedly prepares damaging material, holds it back and demands money in exchange for not releasing it, that is not journalism. That is extortion,” said Tingog Partylist Rep. Jude Acidre, chairman of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education.

“We are one in upholding press freedom, but PGMN is far from practicing real journalism. This resolution intends to expose PGMN’s alleged extortion activities and unmask it as a mere fake news peddler,” Acidre noted.

Duterte of alleged links to illegal drugs, accusations he repeatedly denied. He left the Philippines in 2017 and stayed abroad for several years

He has been informed of our activities,”

Remulla added. No TRO yet

Earlier in the day, Supreme Court ordered government officials to comment within 72 hours on the manifestations filed by Dela Rosa seeking protection from arrest following the issuance of an International Criminal Court warrant against him.

Dela Rosa has been identified by the ICC as a co-perpetrator in the crimes against humanity case of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

The ICC website has identified him as a “defendant at large.”

In its resolution, the Supreme Court en banc directed respondent government officials to submit comments within a non-extendible period of 72 hours from receipt.

The High Court added the order was “without prejudice” to the Court taking interim or urgent measures sought by Dela Rosa if necessary.

Lawyer Jesus Falcis said the absence of a TRO leaves authorities free to act.

“No TRO means no impediment to arrest,” Falcis said, adding that “what is not prohibited is allowed.”

Subpoena recalled

Earlier, the Philippine National Police recalled a subpoena issued by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) directing Dela Rosa to appear for questioning in connection with revived investigations into alleged extrajudicial killings during his stint as Davao City police chief.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the CIDG delivered a notice of recall Wednesday morning

US insistence that it will not consult Beijing on its support to the island.

China’s controls on rare earth exports, AI rivalry, and the countries’ raucous trade relationship are also among the topics expected to be taken up by the heads of the world’s top two economies.

The two sides are set to discuss extending a one-year truce in their tariff war, which Trump and Xi reached during their last meeting in South Korea in October.

The tense buildup to the superpower summit was already visible on the streets of Beijing, with police monitoring major intersections and checking the ID cards of passengers on the metro, AFP journalists saw.

“It’s definitely a big deal,” said Wen Wen, a 24-year-old woman travelling from the eastern city of Nanjing, when asked by AFP about Trump’s visit.

“Some progress will certainly be made,” she said, noting that she hopes China and the United States can ensure “lasting peace” despite “recent instability in the global situation.”

The United States and China have long sought to stabilize their relationship despite increasingly seeing each other as adversaries in trade and geopolitics.

Trump has repeatedly touted a strong personal relationship with Xi, which he insisted on Monday would prevent a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, the selfruled island claimed by Beijing.

“I think we’ll be fine. I have a very good relationship with President Xi. He knows I don’t want that to happen,” he said. AFP

The resolution was introduced by Acidre along with fellow lawmakers Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, Andrew Julian Romualdez, Doris Maniquiz, Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, Maria Cristina Angeles, Joseph Lara, Munir Arbison, Munir Arbison Jr., JC Rahman Nava, Yasser Balindong, Binky April Tupas, Felimon Espares, Francisco Paolo Ortega V, Gerardo Espina Jr., Dale Corvera, Jane Castro, Mauricio Domogan, Franz F. Vincent Legazpi, Ramon Guico, Alyssa Michaela Gonzales, Elisa Kho, Ysabel Maria Zamora, John Tracy Cagas, Zaldy Villa, Bienvenido Abante Jr., Emmarie Ouano-Dizon, Anna Victoria VelosoTuazon, Christopher Sheen Gonzales, Jose Aquino II, Adrian Salceda, Ma Isabel Sagarbarria, Miguel Luis

Usec. Jed Mabilog

after the Senate placed Dela Rosa under protective custody.

“This is related to the instruction of the PNP chief and the CIDG director as a show of respect for the Senate as an institution in connection with the protection order they issued for Senator Bato dela Rosa,” Tuaño said.

The subpoena had ordered Dela Rosa to appear at Camp Crame on Thursday.

Tuaño clarified that the CIDG investigation remains ongoing and that a new subpoena may be issued once the Senate protection issue is resolved.

He added the PNP would act only on lawful directives regarding the ICC warrant.

Tuaño said one possible route involves extradition proceedings through Philippine courts and the Department of Justice, while another involves direct surrender under Republic Act 9851 through coordination with Interpol, the National Central Bureau in Manila, and the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime.

Padilla vs. Pangilinan

The ICC controversy also spilled into Senate proceedings Wednesday as tensions escalated between Senators Francis Pangilinan and Robin Padilla

Acting Senate Sergeant-at-Arms

Mao Aplasca said the two senators were involved in a brief “commotion” at the Senate lounge after session proceedings were suspended.

“On their way out sa lounge, medyo nagkaroon ng commotion uli si Senator Robin at Pangilinan but it was quickly settled,” Aplasca said.

The confrontation stemmed from Tuesday’s plenary debate on the ICC warrant against Dela Rosa.

others for him to surrender to authorities after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for his arrest over alleged crimes against humanity linked to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign.

In a separate interview, Dela Rosa appealed to fellow members of the armed forces and police to “express their sentiment” that the government “should not hand me over to foreigners.”

“I am not appealing for violent support. I am appealing for peaceful support,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malacañang distanced itself from Dela Rosa’s appeal for government support.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Marcos administration remains committed to fairness and the rule of law.

Dela Rosa earlier said that if President Marcos allows his transfer to The Hague, he would seek support from members of the military and police.

“After I served loyally here in our country for many years, ever since I was a cadet at the PMA until I became PNP chief, I dedicated my whole heart to the service. Then this happens, it’s very discouraging,” he said in Filipino.

“But still, I will not surrender,” he added.

As he spent a third day holed up in the Senate, which the chamber locked down while placing him under

Villafuerte, Alfredo Marañon III, Girlie Veloso, Ma Alana Samantha Taliño Santos, Antolin Oreta III, Dante Garcia, Reynaldo Salvacion, Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong, and Marcelino Libanan.

The group represented LakasChristian Muslim Democrats (CMD), National Unity Party (NUP), and Party-list bloc.

Acidre delivered a privilege speech a day earlier calling for a probe into what he described as “digital blackmail outfits,” after reports that PGMN founder Franco Mabanta and several others were arrested in an NBI entrapment operation tied to an alleged P300-million extortion attempt.

The resolution stressed that the inquiry should protect free expression while drawing a hard line between

before returning in September 2024.

In January 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. granted executive clemency to Mabilog in connection with an administrative case, removing penalties tied to the ruling. The DILG oversees local governments and supervises the Philippine National Police and other public safety agencies.

Mabilog’s appointment comes as the Marcos administration continues to make changes and new appointments across several government agencies in recent months.

Pangilinan had sought to refer manifestations on the matter to the Senate Committee on Rules, but Padilla interrupted him, prompting Pangilinan to raise his voice and say: “I still have the floor.”

Padilla later demanded a public apology.

“Nangyari po ito on record sa Senado... Humihingi siya ng pag-abot ng kamay sa akin, hindi na on record (This happened on record in the Senate… [Pangilinan] extended his hand to me, but it was no longer on record),” Padilla said.

Pangilinan responded by telling Padilla to bring the matter before the Senate ethics committee if necessary.

‘Arrest necessary’

In February, Dela Rosa, fellow Senator Christopher Go and six others were identified as “co-perpetrators” in Duterte’s crimes against humanity trial in documents released by ICC prosecutors.

“Duterte and his co-perpetrators shared a common plan or agreement to ‘neutralize’ alleged criminals in the Philippines (including those perceived or alleged to be associated with drug use, sale or production) through violent crimes including murder,” the prosecution document read.

ICC prosecutors have charged Duterte with three counts of crimes against humanity, alleging his involvement in at least 76 murders between 2013 and 2018 as part of his “war on drugs.”

Prosecutors had argued Dela Rosa’s arrest would be “necessary to ensure his appearance before the court,” the newly unsealed warrant showed, noting he had reportedly threatened an investigator and labeled those who cooperated with the ICC as “traitors.”

its protective custody, government officials, lawmakers, and legal experts intensified pressure on him to submit to legal processes.

“Out of 24, five of them are saying this. Meanwhile, these supposed families of EJK (extrajudicial killings) victims, how many are they? Percentage-wise, let’s say about 10% of Filipinos are saying I should surrender to the ICC,” Dela Rosa said in an interview with GMA News’ “Unang Balita.”

“But 90% of Filipinos are telling me, ‘Sir, don’t let foreigners catch you. We are Filipinos; we are a sovereign state. We are not members of the ICC. Never let yourself get caught,’” he added.

(Out of 24 senators, five of them are saying this. Meanwhile, these supposed families of EJK victims, how many are they? Percentage-wise, let’s say about 10 percent of Filipinos are saying I should surrender to the ICC. But 90 percent of Filipinos are telling me, ‘Sir, don’t get caught by foreigners. We are Filipinos, we are a sovereign state. We are not members of the ICC. Don’t let yourself get caught.)

Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and one of Duterte’s closest allies, is accused by the ICC of the crime against humanity of murder in connection with the Duterte administration’s bloody antidrug crackdown.

0The senator has been staying at the Senate building since Monday after agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) attempted to serve the ICC arrest warrant when he resurfaced in public after six months of absence. The Senate later placed him under protective custody.

legitimate public commentary and alleged criminal conduct.

“While freedom of speech and of the press are protected constitutional rights, these freedoms do not shield acts that may constitute robbery, extortion, grave threats, coercion, cybercrime, or other unlawful conduct,” the lawmakers pointed out in the resolution. It also recognized that public officials are open to criticism, but said such scrutiny must remain within the bounds of law and should not become a cover for harassment, threats or coercion.

The measure cited recent allegations involving PGMN “in connection with supposed acts of robbery extortion directed against Representative Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.”

DOE assures measures being taken to address power outages

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy assured the public Wednesday that it is coordinating with power industry players to restore normal conditions after the Luzon and Visayas grids were placed on red and yellow alerts for several hours, leading to rotating power outages for 200,000 customers.

The alerts resulted in manual load dropping that initially affected Meralco customers across several provinces. “The DOE is managing both situations in real time,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said. “On both the transmission side and the generation side, our directive is the same: restore normal conditions as quickly as possible and protect Filipino consumers from prolonged supply disruptions.”

The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) placed the Luzon grid under red alert from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Yellow alerts were also in effect from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Luzon’s peak demand reached 12,537 megawatts (MW), exceeding the available capacity of 12,447 MW, with a total of 4,681.6 MW unavailable to the grid. A red alert is issued when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirements while a yellow alert is issued when the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement. Following the NGCP declaration, Meralco requested its commercial and industrial customers under the Interruptible Load Program (ILP) to deload to lessen the strain on the power grid. It was able to secured more than 240 MW of de-loading capacity under the ILP.”

House...

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House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil and House Sergeantat-Arms Ferdinand Melchor Dela Cruz delivered the documents two days after the House voted to impeach Duterte on Monday by a 257-25-6 vote.

Meanwhile, the Senate has suspended its session and will resume proceedings on Monday.

Earlier, impeachment prosecutor and House Committee on Public Accounts chair Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro Partylist denied the House was delaying the impeachment proceedings, saying that the House is ensuring the proper reproduction and verification of the articles before transmitting them to the Senate.

“The House is working on this matter to ensure that all due process requirements regarding the vice president and the entire process are carried out correctly and properly by the lower chamber,” he said in a statement. Ridon issued the statement in response to criticism from Sen. Imee Marcos, who accused the House of delaying the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte by citing the reproduction of “voluminous documents” as the reason for the delay.

Marcos said the House has enough staff to reproduce the documents and transmit the articles without taking several days. The Senate leadership changed on the same day Duterte was impeached for the second time on May 11, with the majority now composed mostly of Duterte-aligned senators led by Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano.

While acknowledging Marcos’ concerns, Ridon emphasized that the current proceedings differ from the first impeachment complaint, which was transmitted to the Senate on the same day Duterte was first impeached on Feb. 5, 2025.

“We respect Senator Imee Marcos’ view on the transmittal of the Articles of Impeachment, but we need to clarify that the current situation is different from last year’s impeachment proceedings against the vice president,” he said. According to Ridon, the current proceedings followed the first mode of impeachment under House rules, where complaints were filed and referred to the Committee on Justice. The committee conducted clarificatory hearings and gathered documentary evidence and witness testimonies before finding probable cause to pursue impeachment.

SWS: Involuntary hunger among families rises

By Katrina Manubay

THE number of Filipino families ex-

periencing involuntary hunger, or being hungry and having nothing to eat, rose to 23.2% in the past three months, up 3.1 percentage points from 20.1% in November 2025 and the highest level since March 2025, according to a Social Weather Stations survey.

The latest survey showed the figure was 3 percentage points above the 2025 average of 20.2% and 2.1 points higher than the record 21.1% average posted in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Across major areas, hunger was most pronounced in the Visayas at 28%, followed by Balance Luzon at 22.4%, Metro Manila at 22%, and Mindanao at 21.7%.

OCTA Research reported that the 3.1-point increase in hunger from November 2025 to March 2026 was driven by increases in all regions except Mindanao.

Compared to November 2025, hunger incidence rose by 7.7 points from 20% in the Visayas, by 5.7 points from 16.7% in Balance Luzon, and by 1.7 points from 20.3% in Metro Manila.

In Mindanao, however, hunger incidence declined by five points from 26.7% to 21.7%.

The survey also found that moderate hunger rose by 1.3 points from 14% in November 2025 to 15.3% in March 2026, while severe hunger increased by 0.4 points from 6.3% to 6.7%.

In Balance Luzon, moderate hunger rose by 3.9 points from 12.7% to 16.6%, while severe hunger increased by 1.8 points from 4% to 5.8%.

Marcos streamlines NGO accreditation system

By Charles Dantes

RESIDENT

PBy Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives is expected to pass on final reading the proposed anti-political dynasty bill before Congress adjourns sine die in June.

House Bill 8389, or the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, is currently being debated in the Lower House and is expected to be approved on second reading soon, setting the stage for third and final reading approval.

In his sponsorship speech on HB 8389, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said the measure strikes a balance between reform and enforceability, defending the bill’s restriction on relatives within the second degree and warning that a broader fourthdegree prohibition would be difficult for the Commission on Elections to implement.

Adiong, chair of the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms, said the panel adopted the second-degree limit after consultations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, where concerns were raised over practicality and implementation.

“The response from the Comelec is that it would be a logistical nightmare if we extend the degree of prohibition from the second degree to the fourth degree of consanguinity,” Adiong said. The Lanao del Sur lawmaker made the statement during plenary interpellations Tuesday by Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima on House Bill No. 8389, which he sponsored.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed an executive order designating the Department of Social Welfare and Development as the sole accrediting body for social welfare and development agencies, streamlining the process for organizations seeking donee-institution status and tax incentives.

Executive Order No. 117, signed on May 7 and uploaded to the Official Gazette on Tuesday, amends Executive Order No. 720 issued in 2008 and removes the requirement for social welfare and development agencies to secure separate accreditation from

the Philippine Council for NGO Certification.

Under the new order, the DSWD will serve as the sole accrediting entity for SWDAs, including nonstock, nonprofit corporations, organizations, and associations that provide social welfare programs and services.

The order noted that SWDAs previously had to obtain accreditation from both the PCNC and the DSWD—one for tax-related recognition as a qualified donee institution and another for regulatory compliance.

Mr. Marcos said the move aims to simplify government procedures and improve service delivery in line with Republic Act 11032, or the “Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018.”

“The Certificate of Registration and Certificate of Accreditation issued by the DSWD to SWDAs, as applicable, shall be deemed sufficient and shall be recognized by the

BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue) in granting donee-institution status,” the order stated.

The BIR recognizes accredited donee institutions for tax deductions on donations under Sections 34(H) and 101(A) of the National Internal Revenue Code.

The measure also repeals Executive Order No. 720, which designated the PCNC, a private nonstock and nonprofit corporation composed of nongovernmental organization networks, as the government’s partner in accrediting donee institutions.

Under the transitory provision, organizations that already hold doneeinstitution status before the issuance of Executive Order No. 117 may retain their status until their certificates expire. After expiration, they must seek accreditation directly from the DSWD under the new rules.

The Department of Finance, through the BIR, and the DSWD were directed to issue implementing rules and regulations for the order’s implementation.

DILG: Stronger support for brgy health

By Vince Lopez

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to strengthen grassroots health systems and sustain community-based health response mechanisms beyond the pandemic, renewed its call for all local government units to support and strengthen their Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams. The DILG emphasized the vital role of BHERTs as the country’s frontline defense in protecting communities from health emergencies, ensuring immediate response during crises, and addressing everyday public health concerns at the barangay level.

To date, more than 43,000 BHERTs nationwide continue to actively serve communities and respond at the grassroots level. Their ongoing efforts remain crucial in promoting community health, ensuring immediate emergency response, and supporting local healthcare initiatives across the country. Years after the height of the pandemic, BHERTs continue to serve on the frontlines of

LTO flags HPG officer over dangerous behavior

THE Land Transportation Office on Wednesday flagged a personnel of the Philippine National PoliceHighway Patrol Group over alleged irresponsible and dangerous behavior on the road.

LTO chief Markus Lacanilao reacted to a viral social media video showing the HPG officer driving his motorcycle and forcibly pushing another motorcycle rider.

The rider lost his balance and fell onto the road.

Lacanilao ordered the immediate issuance of a show cause order against the HPG officer, directing him to explain why he should not be held liable for several violations, including reckless driving, duty of the driver in case of an accident, improper use of number plates, and being an improper person to operate a motor vehicle. Rio N. Araja Japanese suspected of child abuse nabbed A JAPANESE former child care worker wanted in his home country for alleged sexual abuse of young children was arrested by Philippine authorities on Tuesday in Cavite province south of Manila, police said.

An arrest warrant for the 42-yearold man was issued by the Nagoya Summary Court in Japan on suspicion of abusing at least three children aged 5 and 6 in Hokkaido in 2018, according to a Philippine police report and related documents seen by Kyodo News. Kyodo News

Sulu BPAT staff conduct responders training

FORTY-ONE members of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT) from six villages in Tapul, Sulu are undergoing responders training as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots peacekeeping and local security initiatives. The 1102nd Infantry Brigade said Tuesday that the BPAT Responders Training Class 10-2026 includes cross-training in Arnis and Aikido to enhance community security capabilities. The opening ceremony was held Monday at the covered court of Barangay Kalang in Tapul. The military said the training aims to equip community-based responders with essential skills to serve as force multipliers in maintaining peace and order, responding to emergencies, and supporting law enforcement and security forces. Rex Espiritu

IN BRIEF

Chinese rocket sets off ‘space jellyfish’—PhilSA

THE Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) said the unusual lights observed across Philippine airspace on the evening of May 12 were most likely caused by the launch of a Chinese Long March 6A rocket.

In an advisory released Wednesday, PhilSA said the phenomenon termed “space jellyfish” was seen at around 8:10 p.m. and was “highly likely” linked to the passage of the Long March 6A, also known as Chang Zheng 6A.

The rocket was reportedly launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in China at approximately 7:58 p.m. Philippine time on Tuesday.

According to the agency, a space jellyfish occurs when a rocket’s exhaust plume at high altitude is illuminated by sunlight while the ground below is already dark. Rex Espiritu

PH, Czech Republic

deepen defense ties

THE Philippines and the Czech Republic have deepened collaboration in areas such as defense industry development, cyber defense, logistics, and military training amid global security concerns.

The strategic tie-up was forged on May 11during a meeting in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City between Defense Undersecretary Irineo Espino and Czech non-resident military and air attaché Lt. Col. Petr Rusinov.

According to the Department of National Defense, the meeting revisited discussions held last year between Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and former Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová. Espino also highlighted the recently concluded Philippines-United States Exercise Balikatan 2026, saying the drills enhanced interoperability and defense capabilities among participating and observing militaries. Rex Espiritu

Agents seize P5-m cannabis from US GOVERNMENT agents at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) have confiscated shipments of hybrid cannabis valued at over P5 million at the Central Mail Exchange Center in Pasay City.

The operation, executed by a composite team from the Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup), Bureau of Customs, and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, followed standard protocols for screening and inspecting incoming parcels on May 11. The contrabands came from California and Oregon in the United States and were consigned to recipients in Cavite, Laguna, and Misamis Oriental. Joel E. Zurbano

SBMA cuts port tariffs, transport fees by 35% to cushion inflation

By John Bayarong

SUBIC Bay Freeport— The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has reduced port tariffs by 35 percent and cut transport-related fees in a bid to cushion the impacts of inflation on consumers and businesses.

SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño said the economic relief was part of the government’s response to the energy emergency measures declared by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. The tariff cuts cover vessel charges, berthing and harbor fees, cargo

handling, and wharfage—core logistics costs that directly affect the price of moving goods through the Subic Bay Freeport, a key gateway serving Central and Northern Luzon.

SBMA senior deputy administrator Ramon Agregado announced the package of relief measures on May 11

at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC).

“These measures extend financial relief to the affected Freeport stakeholders,” he said.

The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) said in an April 7 letter to SBMA that rising logistics costs are adding pressure across their supply chains.

SBFCC president Benjamin Antonio III warned that logistics costs have surged by as much as 30 to 40 percent, “squeezing margins and limiting the ability of firms to absorb additional shocks.” Local gasoline pump prices have

Napolcom probes domestic violence involving Malabon cop

THE National Police Commission (Napolcom) has launched an investigation into an alleged domestic violence involving a Malabon City policeman that went viral over the weekend.

The online video showed police Cpl. Jerome Pingol Dela Cruz physically attacking his live-in partner over still unclear reasons.

During a press briefing at the Napolcom headquarters in Quezon City Wednesday morning, the Com-

mission presented both the respondent police officer and the victim.

The incident, which drew widespread public outrage online, prompted immediate action by both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Napolcom.

Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan confirmed that he had directed the Commission’s Inspection, Monitoring, and Investigation Service (IMIS) to immediately undertake the appropriate admin-

istrative action and pursue a motu proprio investigation into the case, regardless of whether the private complainant ultimately withdraws or declines to participate further in the proceedings.

He likewise directed respondent Dela Cruz to formally answer the allegations and explain his side in accordance with due process.

“It is unacceptable that a policeman in uniform would manhandle a woman. We will not allow a member

of the police service to hurt anybody. This incident should not be emulated.

To everybody who saw the video, do not lose your trust in the police. It is clear that this kind of behavior does not represent the core values of the Philippine National Police,” Calinisan said.

The Commissioner stressed that police service is a continuing obligation that does not end when a police officer goes off duty or removes the uniform.

Envoy invites Chinese tourists to visit PH

BEIJING, China — Philippine ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz invited Chinese travelers to visit the Philippines, citing the country’s world-class islands and tourist attractions, as well as “meaningful cultural encounters and genuine hospitality.”

“Tourism is about people. It is about encounters, experiences, and stories,” FlorCruz said, adding that tourism is “more than leisure” and serves as “a bridge between peoples and societies.”

FlorCruz made the pitch during the Philippine Tourism Industry Business Mission 2026 held here on Tuesday. Similar missions are happening in Chengdu and Guangzhou.

Organized by the Beijing and Shanghai offices of the Philippine Department of Tourism, the mission brought together 35 Philippine travel-related

companies and around 280 Chinese travel agencies, opening new opportunities to deepen tourism cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and China.

FlorCruz noted that the event was especially significant as it was the first Philippine Tourism Industry Business Mission in China in six years, the last held in 2019.

“The strong participation I see today sends a message that despite the challenges and uncertainties of recent years, there remains tremendous interest, confidence, and goodwill between the Philippine and Chinese tourism industries,” he said.

DOT Assistant Secretary Sharlene Zabala-Batin, who was in China to participate in the promotion activity, said the slogan “Love the Philippines” is more than a tourism brand.

risen for three consecutive weeks, while diesel prices have gone down around ₱19 per liter during the same period.

For companies, the relief is significant—but fragile.

“A 35-percent cut in port charges is meaningful on paper, but logistics is a chain,” said an exporter based in Central Luzon who asked not to be named, adding that “if fuel prices keep rising, those gains get diluted quickly.” Beyond the port charges, SBMA halved road-user fees and deferred scheduled increases. Truckers, however, see a limited impact on trip savings.

La Trinidad gov’t backs opposition to import carrots

By Dexter See

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet—Opposition to the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) plan to import some 6,000 metric tons of carrots to fill the alleged supply gap continued to snowball following the approval by the local municipal council of a resolution urging the DA to reconsider its decision to protect local vegetable farmers. Under the resolution, the council told the DA to prioritize domestic supply chain interventions before authorizing importation.

The resolution was in support to Resolution No. 1 of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Benguet chapter, that sought the imposition of an immediate moratorium on the importation of carrots and other highland vegetables, and to prioritize domestic supply chain interventions before authorizing foreign agricultural procurement.

The municipal council argued that the planned importation of carrots and other highland vegetables during the local harvest season may result in market saturation, thereby, driving down the farm gate prices and causing substantial financial losses to local farmers who are already burdened by high production costs, unpredictable weather conditions, and increasing logistical expenses.

According to the council resolution, La Trinidad recognizes the importance of ensuring food availability and price stability. Such objectives however, must be pursued in a manner that does not undermine domestic agricultural production and the welfare of local vegetable farmers.

“There are existing domestic interventions that may effectively address supply and distribution concerns, including, but not limited to, strengthened farm to market linkages, localized government procurement, transport subsidies, logistical support, and improved coordination among agricultural stakeholders,” the resolution stated.

OPINION

Uneasy

UNEASY lies the head which wears a crown.

The minority of nine tried twice before to wrest Senate leadership from Tito Sotto. First the failure to get the magic number of 13 was because Bato de la Rosa was in hiding.

Next Bato was somewhere near the Senate building, waiting for his cue to vote for a lady senator as the new president. But Malacanang and a power broker got wind of the impending coup, and while a delegation was on its way to inform Sotto, these powerful persons called three senators with threatening messages. And so, though they had already signed the articles of decapitation, they made themselves scarce. Since change in leadership requires a physical vote in plenary, the second attempt fizzled out.

The retained Sotto made a beau geste to Loren Legarda, promising her a crack at the Senate presidency before her elected term in 2028 ends.

But the plotting by the ringleaders of the minority never ceased, and the secretive wooing persisted.

By Sunday last, the die was cast, the magic number reached. And while a power broker in the second attempt anchored his objection to the lady who would have been the first president of the Senate, the plotters decided to nominate Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano instead.

The DDH yak about this Senate coup being tied to the impeachment of their bete noire, Inday Sara who is visiting her father in Den Haag yet she found out only when the news broke out.

Sotto thought his leadership was safe and was already in earlier discussions with his House counterpart about a Malacanang-inspired plot to convene Congress into a constituent assembly to revise the 1987 Constitution. This was the subject of our Monday article in this space, and a SPOKES interview over the Bilyonaryo News Channel yesterday.

The givens are clear to most political observers.

The Senate dice, this time to get a magic 16 to convict the vice-president is not going to roll. Six re-electionists come 2028 cannot afford to face a backlash of “rage” in Mindanao, Central and Eastern Visayas, and even NCR.

Even if they get Bato into Scheveningen, and hale Chiz, Jinggoy and Joel into the Sandiganbayan, the 16 needed to convict is immutable.

If the vice-president is acquitted, the path to her presidency would be clear. Leni, the great hope of the pinklawans, would stick to her word not to run for president, and Raffy Tulfo would opt for reelection, which is a certainty rather than lose his Senate seat after June 30, 2028. And the president along with his coterie of bootlickers would not only find them-

selves jobless, but some of them might also be prosecuted for the never-to-beforgotten flood control scandal and more.

It is a specter that they cannot countenance.

So Cha-cha, already floated by Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno of the powerful NUP is now swimming into the realm of the possible.

Still, the unexpected Monday development in the Senate has discombobulated the plot.

Trust me, it has not died. It is just back to the “cleaners” for laundering and at the right time, be trotted out from the closet.

Uneasy lies the head of others in the benighted land!

For while Inday Sara’s fate is existential to the Dutertes, the same is existential to the Marcoses, minus Senadora Imee.

***

Former Finance Sec. Sonny Dominguez, worried that the first quarter inflation reached 7.2 percent (with only March oil prices galloping), and economic growth registered a very low 2.8 percent, with the national debt now a dangerous 65.8 percent of the GDP, up from 62 percent pre-Iran, has this message for the new Senate majority:

“The dramatic change in the Senate leadership is an opportunity to shift the focus of the government leaders AWAY from intense partisan politics, towards addressing the very serious economic challenges faced by our people.

“Inflation is now over 7 percent and is likely to remain even high for some time.

Food prices are steadily rising (13.2 percent of the first quarter increase is attributable to food prices, rice included) due to higher fertilizer and transport costs and will likely continue even up to next year as a Super El Nino is expected starting late this year.

“GDP growth starting from the last quarter of 2025 has been only 50 percent of government’s target – and will likely remain low for the rest of the year.

“This economic slowdown and low investment levels is creating more joblessness, with even underemployment levels worsening.”

The portents of gloom are heightened even more by surveys which show rising pessimism, even hopelessness, among our people who are convinced their government is not serious in addressing inflation and alleviating the worsening economic condition of the majority of our people.

To quote a former president, Erap Estrada: “hungry stomach knows no law.”

Uneasy lies the head of others in the benighted land!

Surprises

THE burning question of the day that we should not even be asking is, could the Senate legally not convene to try an impeachable official who has been impeached by the House if some or majority of the Senate members block the trial?

As we all have been taught in school, all our three Constitutions – the 1935, 1973 and the 1987 Constitution – tell us that in our system of government, the House impeaches and the Senate tries the case.

We have always understood this to mean that the Senate has no choice but to convene itself as a trial court to try an impeached official.

It is an obligatory duty because the Constitution says so. We have seen this happen already in the President Joseph Estrada and Chief Justice Renato Corona impeachment trials.

It appear,s however, that this doctrine that we Filipinos all know and have always taken for granted as a fact of political life in our system of government is now in disarray.

How did we arrive at this morass of a situation?

To some legal luminaries, it was when the Supreme Court intruded into a Constitutionally mandated process by declaring the first impeachment of VP Duterte as unconstitutional which this group believed was an overstep by the Supreme Court.

To others, it was when the Senate archived the impeachment, stopping the trial dead on its tracks.

With the forthcoming second impeachment of the VP, the trial might not even proceed at all since a new Senate President has just been installed who is politically aligned with the VP.

It is disgusting... seeing the senators prioritizing their politics instead of being more concerned with the plight of the public trying to survive due to increasing transport and food prices

It could, however, proceed as stated by the new Senate President to formally and legally terminate the process given that those senators aligned with the VP have the numbers. This is because archiving the case again would leave the status of the VP in limbo.

If archived, who could for example stop the administration from saying the VP cannot perform her duties considering that her impeachment has not been resolved

Sara’s impeachment trial should start forthwith

THE Senate should begin the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte forthwith as decreed by the 1987 Constitution.

The new Senate majority should not delay or even prevent the start of the impeachment trial. If they do so, they relinquish their responsibility to uphold the constitutional order and the rule of law in this country.

The case involves serious allegations of misuse of confidential funds, bribery, unexplained wealth, and destabilization plots. These charges underscore the deep rupture between the Marcos and Duterte camps that could dominate the political landscape until the 2028 presidential race

What is important is for the current Senate to uphold high-level institutional accountability in our political system.

Under the Philippine Constitution, the Senate acts as an impeachment court, and the Senate President presides over the proceedings. While the Senate President does not vote except in specific circumstances, the position carries immense procedural and political influence. The presiding officer can affect the pace of the trial, interpret procedural motions, and shape the overall environment of the proceedings. The installation of Alan Peter Cayetano, a longtime Duterte ally and former running mate of former President Rodrigo Duterte,

therefore changes perceptions about the likelihood of conviction.

The impeachment case against Sara Duterte is not just about her alleged misconduct; it is a crucial test for Philippine democracy, institutional strength, and the balance of power between the Marcos and Duterte factions

Before the leadership change, many observers believed the Senate under Sotto might allow a more aggressive and expeditious impeachment process. Sotto had projected a more institutional and

By Jimbo Gulle

FOR decades, the Philippines has treated autism the way it treats many disabilities: with sympathy, ceremonial recognition, and occasional awareness campaigns, but without the infrastructure, funding, or urgency required to address the problem at scale.

Families raising children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have largely been left to fend for themselves, carrying costs that should have long ago been recognized as a matter of national policy.

Senate Bill 1822, or the National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act, offers perhaps the country’s clearest opportunity yet to correct that failure.

The bill, which passed the Senate on March 10, deserves swift passage into law not simply because it is compassionate, but because the economic and social costs of continued neglect are becoming impossible to ignore.

The Philippines has spent years discussing disability almost exclusively in moral terms. That conversation matters, but it has also obscured a harder truth: autism has enormous economic consequences for families, communities, and the country itself.

Those consequences are already being paid every day, only quietly and privately, by parents forced to absorb costs the state has refused to shoulder.

The Autism Society of the Philippines estimates that roughly one in every 100 Filipinos is on the autism spectrum. That translates to about 1.2 million Filipinos with ASD. The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), meanwhile, estimates there are 5.1 million Filipino children with special needs nationwide.

These are not marginal figures. They represent millions of households whose

with finality?

The wise and prudent thing to do therefore is for the Senate to conduct a trial to close the case formally. But if a trial will take place, there will always be the risk that some of these senators will flip in exchange for money or something else.

Yes, the VP camp may be thinking that they now have the upper hand in the Senate but, in the overall scheme of things, it could be characterized as a Pyrrhic victory and short lived.

Yes, the Senate coup was well planned and executed especially with the sudden and surprise appearance of Senator Bato dela Rosa but, in the end, the surprise was on them. From out of the blue, NBI agents were all over the Senate ready to arrest the

rules-based approach to the trial.

However, the Cayetano takeover suggests that pro-Duterte forces still possess considerable influence inside the Senate despite the House of Representatives being dominated by allies of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

What we are likely to witness in the weeks and months ahead could be deeper political polarization, with the impeachment trial intensifying divisions in Congress and among the public, with Marcos allies pushing for conviction and Duterte loyalists framing it as persecution.

The Senate leadership change has already fueled public perception that institutional processes are being shaped by factional loyalties rather than purely constitutional considerations. This could undermine public trust in both Congress and the impeachment process itself. In fact, what the Senate coup reveals is that the 2028 has effectively begun two years early. The impeachment trial is not only about legal accountability; it is also about succession politics, coalition-building, and the survival of competing political dynasties.

The impeachment case against Sara Duterte is not just about her alleged misconduct; it is a crucial test for Philippine democracy, institutional strength, and the balance of power between the Marcos and Duterte factions. No doubt, its outcome will shape the trajectory of national politics leading into the 2028 elections and even beyond.

Why autism reform cannot wait anymore (First of two parts)

finances, careers, mental health, and future economic stability are shaped by the absence of accessible autism services.

A study cited during Senate deliberations, “The Economic Costs of Childhood Disability” by Mark Stabile and Sara Allin, identifies three layers of burden carried by families.

First are the direct costs: developmental consultations, therapy sessions, diagnostic tests, medications, transportation, and educational accommodations. In the Philippines, most of these are still paid out of pocket.

Senate Bill 1822 recognizes ASD as a lifelong issue that intersects with healthcare, education, employment, and social protection

Second are the indirect costs. Parents reduce work hours or leave employment entirely to provide care. Careers are postponed or abandoned. Family savings disappear into years of therapy and intervention. Entire households reorganize themselves around a system that barely exists.

Third are the long-term costs, which may be the most damaging of all. Delayed diagnosis and limited intervention reduce opportunities for independent living, employment, and social participation later in life. When the country fails to intervene early, the consequences compound across decades. The government has effectively pri-

senator on the basis of an ICC arrest warrant which Bato’s allies thought was nonexistent.

To protect their ally, the Senate majority placed the senator under its “protective custody” which is an authority the Senate clearly does not have.

The Senate will have to allow the arrest of Bato dela Rosa even inside the Senate building and let him fight his case in our courts or else, even the Senate itself can be brought to court for obstruction of justice. Bato should have not believed whoever convinced him to come out from hiding to vote in the Senate coup and simply stayed in the mountains of Davao. But Bato should be the least of our worries considering the economic hardships we ordinary mortals are currently going thru.

vatized autism care by default. Families have become the country’s unpaid social safety net. In this writer’s experience, this is sadly true in the lived of my family and friends.

This is especially cruel in a country where access to specialists is concentrated almost entirely in Metro Manila. Outside major urban centers, developmental pediatricians, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and behavioral specialists are scarce or nonexistent. Some parents wait more than a year for diagnosis. Others travel across provinces every week for therapy appointments. Many simply give up because they cannot afford the costs anymore.

Early intervention is critical in autism care. Yet countless Filipino children lose valuable developmental years while trapped in diagnostic queues or denied services altogether. That delay carries lifelong consequences, not only for the child but for society, which ultimately bears the economic cost of lost productivity, unemployment, dependence, and preventable exclusion.

This is why Senate Bill 1822 matters. The proposed law does not treat autism as an isolated medical condition. It recognizes ASD as a lifelong issue that intersects with healthcare, education, employment, and social protection.

It establishes a National Plan of Action for Autism that would coordinate government response across agencies instead of leaving families to navigate fragmented systems on their own. (to be continued)

(Jimbo Owen Gulle is the former News Editor of Manila Standard, where he started his journalistic career as a sportswriter over three decades ago. He continues to contribute articles to the Standard and other publications while working as a freelance editor and media consultant.)

It is disgusting to say the least seeing the senators prioritizing their politics instead of being more concerned with the plight of the public trying to survive due to increasing transport and food prices. I find it difficult to feel sorry for Bato because, in the final analysis, he brought all his problems to himself. He forgot that when he took his oath as an AFP officer in 1986, it was to serve the country and people first and not an individual. But, as they say, regrets always come at the end.

Finally, if the Senate will indeed convene as an impeachment court as announced by the new Senate President, he better see to it that it not be a “lutong macao” process because the whole nation is watching and will ultimately be the judge.

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

Iran says US must accept its peace plan

Chinese alleged hacking leader extradited to SK

SEOUL – A Chinese alleged cybercrime ringleader, whose victims reportedly included BTS megastar Jungkook, was extradited from Thailand to South Korea on Wednesday over a hacking scheme that stole more than $25 million, Seoul’s justice ministry said.

The 40-year-old suspect is accused of leading a hacking organisation based overseas, including in Thailand, that infiltrated websites of budget mobile carriers and other firms between August 2023 and April 2025, according to the ministry’s statement.

The suspect was arrested in Bangkok in an Interpol-led operation and flown to South Korea’s Incheon airport Wednesday in cooperation with Seoul’s National Police Agency, it said.

Using illegally obtained personal data, the group allegedly accessed victims’ financial and cryptocurrency accounts and withdrew large sums without authorisation.

Victims reportedly included celebrities, conglomerate chairmen and startup executives, with South Korean reports saying K-pop star Jungkook was among those targeted. AFP

IN BRIEF

US attorney general defends subpoenas

WASHINGTON, DC – Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche on Tuesday defended the issuing of subpoenas to journalists as part of investigations into leaks of classified information.

Blanche did not mention any publication by name in a post on X but his remarks came one day after The Wall Street Journal reported that it had received grand jury subpoenas for records of its reporters involved in coverage of the war against Iran.

“Prosecuting leakers who share our nation’s secrets with reporters, in turn risking our national security and the lives of our soldiers, is a priority for this administration,” Blanche said.

“Any witness, whether a reporter or otherwise, who has information about these criminals should not be surprised if they receive a subpoena about the illegal leaking of classified material,” he added.

President Donald Trump -- also without mentioning any specific media outlet -- lashed out on Tuesday at war coverage in a post on Truth Social. AFP

Ex-Zelenskyy top aide says allegations ‘unfounded’

KYIV – Andriy Yermak, a former chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, dismissed corruption allegations as “unfounded” following a court hearing on Tuesday.

Yermak was Zelenskyy’s closest aide until he resigned in November 2025 after investigators raided his home as part of a sweeping corruption probe that rocked the war-torn country.

“The notice of suspicion is unfounded,” Yermak, 54, wrote on Telegram after the hearing, referring to a formal Ukrainian procedural document that informs an individual of suspicion of committing a crime.

“As a lawyer with more than 30 years of experience, I have always been guided by the law. And now I will likewise defend my rights, my name, and my reputation,” he added.

Prosecutors suspect Yermak of funnelling around $10 million (460 million hryvnias) as part of an organised crime group, which, among others, included former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov and ex-Zelenskyy business associate Timur Mindich.

Kuwait ‘foiled infiltration attempt by Iran’s Guards’

KUWAIT CITY – Kuwait has said four people arrested earlier this month as they attempted to enter the country by sea confessed to belonging to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

The four men -- two navy colonels, a captain and a lieutenant commander -- admitted they had been tasked by Iran’s ideological army with “infiltrating” Bubiyan Island, Kuwait’s interior ministry said in a statement published by state news agency Kuna.

Iran’s foreign ministry denied the allegations, calling them “absolutely baseless,” and said the four officers had entered Kuwaiti waters by mistake “due to disruption in the navigation system”.

The island is Kuwait’s largest and is located near the Iranian coast. The group attempted to enter on May 1 “aboard a fishing boat specially chartered to carry out hostile actions against Kuwait”, the ministry said. AFP

Israel strikes Lebanon; authorities say 380 killed

BEIRUT – Israel hammered south Lebanon with strikes on Tuesday ahead of talks between the two countries in Washington, as Beirut reported 380 people killed in Israeli attacks since an April 17 ceasefire took effect.

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem vowed to turn the battlefield into “hell” for Israeli forces, and insisted his Iran-backed group’s weapons would not be up for discussion at the talks on Thursday and Friday, after the US had called for its disarmament.

Israel has intensified its attacks on south Lebanon, where it continues to trade fire with Hezbollah despite the ceasefire. Under the truce terms released by Washington, Israel reserves the right

to act against imminent threats.

Lebanon’s health ministry said Israeli strikes on Tuesday killed 13 people in the south, including two rescuers responding to an earlier raid in the city of Nabatieh and a wounded person they went to save.

The ministry decried Israel’s “complete disregard for all international norms”.

Hezbollah has also been carrying out attacks, including several on Tuesday, both against Israeli troops who have invaded south Lebanon and across the border, saying they are in response to Israeli ceasefire violations.

Lebanon’s Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine told a press conference

Japan ‘robot wolves’ in high demand to scare off bears

TOKYO – A Japanese company making ferociouslooking robot wolves is being swamped by orders after record numbers of fatal bear attacks on humans last year.

“Monster Wolf” is an animatoronic scarecrow with flashing red eyes that howls and growls menacingly to scare away wild animals.

Ohta Seiki, the Hokkaido-based firm that makes the devices, has already received around 50 orders this year, more than the usual volume for an entire year.

“We make them by hand. We cannot make them fast enough now. We are asking our customers to wait two to three months,” company president Yuji Ohta told AFP.

“Awareness of bear safety and measures against wildlife damage (on farm products) improved.

There was also a growing recognition that our product is effective in dealing with bears,” Ohta said.

Orders come mostly from farmers, operators of golf courses and people working outside in rural areas such as in construction.

Bears killed 13 people across Japan in 20252026, more than twice the previous high.

More than 50,000 bear sightings were recorded nationwide, more than double the previous record set two years before, according to official data. AFP

on Tuesday that since the ceasefire, “380 people have been killed and 1,122 wounded”.

A ministry official told AFP that toll includes 39 women and 22 children. Nassereddine decried a “systematic, ongoing attack on civilians”, and described the ceasefire as “fragile and ineffective”.

Save the Children said in a statement that “more than four children have been killed or injured every day on average in Lebanon in the first 25 days” of the truce. Its Lebanon country director Nora Ingdal said “attacks on civilians have not stopped -- it has simply continued under another name”. AFP

TEHRAN – Iran’s chief negotiator has said Washington must accept Tehran’s latest peace plan or face failure, after US President Donald Trump warned the truce in the Middle East war was on the brink of collapse.

The war, which erupted more than two months ago with US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has spread throughout the Middle East and roiled the global economy despite the ceasefire, impacting hundreds of millions worldwide.

Both sides have refused to make concessions and repeatedly threatened to resume fighting, but neither appears willing to return to all-out war.

“There is no alternative but to accept the rights of the Iranian people as laid out in the 14-point proposal. Any other approach will be completely inconclusive; nothing but one failure after another,” Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a post on X.

“The longer they drag their feet, the more American taxpayers will pay for it.”

The Pentagon said on Tuesday that the cost of the war had climbed to nearly $29 billion -- about $4 billion higher than an estimate offered two weeks ago. Iran sent its latest proposal in response to an earlier US plan, details of which remain limited. Media reports have said the American plan involved a one-page memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the fighting and establishing a framework for negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. Iran’s foreign ministry said its response called for ending the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon, halting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and securing the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad under longstanding sanctions.

But Trump slammed Tehran’s reply as “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE”, saying the United States would enjoy a “complete victory” over Iran and that the truce that has halted fighting for over a month was on its last legs. AFP

Fugitive financier sought in KL fund key scandal seeks Trump’s pardon

WASHINTON, DC – A fugitive financier accused of involvement in a massive corruption scandal in Malaysia in which top officials looted billions from state fund 1MDB has sought a pardon from US President Donald Trump. Businessman Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low, is formally seeking a “pardon after completion of sentence,” according to the US Department of Justice website. Whistleblowers allege that Jho Low, a well-connected Malaysian financier with no official role, helped set up the 1MDB state investment fund and made key financial decisions before disappearing about a decade ago. Low, who has been indicted in the United States, has denied wrongdoing but remains at large. Malaysia’s Trade Minister Johari Abdul Ghani, who chairs a task force seeking to recover

Pasig edges

Bataan in OT; Quezon wins

PASIG City crawled out of a deep hole to foil Bataan, 97-91, in overtime on Tuesday and rev up its drive in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the Ynares Center Montalban in Rizal Province.

Ahron Estacio drove in with 38.9 seconds left to extend the game, then scored four points in extra time to help Pasig complete its recovery from a 15-point deficit and improve to 3-1 in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 28-team tournament.

Jacob Galicia and Warlo James Batac also shone for Pasig, which trailed at 56-71 with 8 minutes and 56 seconds left in the fourth quarter, but knotted the count at 78 following back-to-back triples by Jerald Bautista and Buenaventura Raflores.

Batac made four charities against Hubert Cani’s triple for the Risers in the last 1 minute and 49 seconds of overtime, while Galicia tallied 16 points, 12 rebounds and 2 steals.

Former Pasig starter Chito Jaime and Hubert Cani combined for four points against Estacio’s floater to push Bataan ahead, 82-80, only for Estacio to drive

LOS ANGELES—Memphis Grizzlies

forward Brandon Clarke, 29, has died, the NBA team said in a statement on Tuesday.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies said in a statement posted on social media.

“Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”

His management company, Priority Sports, said in a statement they were “beyond devastated” by Clarke’s death.

“He was the gentlest soul, who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family,” the agency said.

Neither statement provided information on a cause of death.

The NBC television affiliate in Los Angeles cited unnamed law enforcement sources in reporting Clarke was found dead on Monday in a home in the suburban San Fernando Valley, where paramedics responded to an emergency call. The station reported that authorities

3

Don’t mention the war: Tucson to welcome Iran for World Cup

TUCSON—In the Strait of Hormuz, US warships menace Iran’s oil tankers, while in Washington President Donald Trump demands “complete victory.” But in Tucson, they’re getting ready to welcome the Iranian football team as if nothing were amiss.

The city, an oasis of civilization in the Arizona desert, is set to be the base camp for “Team Melli” when the world’s biggest sporting spectacle opens in the US, Mexico and Canada next month.

“We’re just excited to host them here, and we’re going to give them a positive experience,” Sarah Hanna,

director of the Kino Sports Complex, where the team will train, told AFP. Grass is being watered and cut to FIFA-regulation height to ensure that players don’t get any surprises when they take to the field in Los Angeles and Seattle, the venues for their groupstage games.

Hotel rooms and meeting spaces are locked in, and security is tight.

“Right now, I’m probably averaging about 12 to 20 meetings regarding this training facility a week,” said Hanna.

“From our concessionaire for food and beverage... to lots of grounds meetings with FIFA coming out to check.”

Ceasefire

The flurry of activity in Tucson comes against the backdrop of a war between the US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other that is now in its 11th week.

Grizzlies’ Clarke dies at 29; cancer claims life of ex-NBA player Collins

were investigating Clarke’s death as a possible drug overdose.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant also paid trib-

ute to his teammate with several posts on Instagram, including one photo of Clarke enveloping him in a hug on court.

“It’s bigger than basketball,” Morant wrote.

Clarke was the 21st overall selection

in the 2019 NBA draft and earned allrookie honors in his opening season. He inked a four-year, $50 million contract extension with the Grizzlies in 2022. But he’d battled injuries in recent seasons. He played just six games in the 2023-24 season and after playing 64 games in 2024-25 Clarke played just two games this season because of calf

and knee trouble. His death comes six weeks after he was arrested in Arkansas on charges that included possession of a controlled substance and fleeing in a vehicle while speeding.

Meanwhile, Jason Collins, the former NBA player who became the first openly gay man to play in a major US pro sports league, has died after a battle with brain cancer, his family said Tuesday.

“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” Collins’ family said in a statement released through the league.

“Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months and for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses. Our family will miss him dearly.” AFP

women play key roles in Karate One-Youth League Manila staging

GENDER equity and inclusivity will be recognized and showcased in what looms as an exciting and action-packed Philippine leg of the Karate One-Youth League Manila presented by the Philippine Sports Commission starting today at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. In recognition of their growing influence and role in the dynamic martial art, three women with impressive credentials will play key functions in the four-day championships sanctioned by the World Karate Federation and organized by the Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation, Inc.

“The WKF continues to recognize the vital role that women play in promoting and propagating karate worldwide, and their competence and excellence in handling massive tournaments such as the as the Karate One-Youth League Manila,” KPSFI president Richard Lim said.

Lim bared that the three women are Vietnam’s Nguyen Hoang Ngan, China’s Ma Junting and Austria’s Sabrina

Weiss, who will serve as WKF tournament manager, chief referee and Games Management system head, respectively, in the meet supported by the SM Group of Companies and the Philippine Olympic Committee. Vietnamese Nguyễn, 41, is something of a legend back home, having won the gold medal in the women’s individual kata in the 2008 world championships in Tokyo, Japan and at the World Games in Kaohsiung, China the succeeding year. She likewise boasts of having won seven Southeast Asian Games golds, beginning in 2003 as she anchored the hometown team to a sweep of the women’s team and individual mints when Vietnam hosted the regional sportsfest for the first time.

On the other hand, Ma is the first WKF-accredited international referee from China and was also the chief referee of the Karate One Premier League, the karate world body’s top tier compe-

tition, held last month in Leshan, China, on top of being member of the WKF Referees Commission. The Chinese technical official also holds the distinction of being one of the torchbearers in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. A noted entrepreneur, Austrian Weiss is the woman responsible for designing the WKF-approved scoring clicker system used for kumite (sparring) in all of its karate kumite competitions. Given their track record and professional reputation, Lim expected the global youth karate festival also backed by Milo, Lanson’s Place and Citadines Bay City Manila to run smoothly until Sunday.

Despite a shaky ceasefire in place for a month, hostilities are stubbornly unresolved, with Iran having virtually shut the Strait of Hormuz. Organizers FIFA have insisted the team will take part in the tournament as planned, so Tucson has pressed ahead with its preparations.

“As far as we’re concerned, it’s 100 percent on, and it’s never been off,” said Hanna.

“Since they’ve been identified as the team, we’ve been moving forward as them as our team, until we hear something different from FIFA.” AFP

THE deck may have been shuffled, but one ace continues to rise above the rest. Jude Garcia remained an unstoppable force across the last two conferences for the two-time champion Criss Cross King Crunchers, earning back-to-back Spikers’ Turf Most Valuable Player of the Season honors. The five-time conference MVP, along with other standouts from the country’s premier men’s club volleyball league, will be feted in the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night on May 30 at Novotel Manila Araneta City in the heart of Cubao.

Garcia amassed 109.442 statistical points across the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, where he powered the King Crunchers to a breakthrough title against Kindai University, and the 2026 Open Conference, where Criss Cross captured its second straight championship at the expense of the Savouge Spin Doctors.

His efforts did not go unnoticed, as he is set to receive the much-deserved recognition during the formal awards night, also supported by Immuni+, where the PVL Press Corps will honor individual excellence across both the men’s and women’s divisions.

The Open Conference Finals MVP will also banner the Mythical Team after securing one of the two Best Outside Hitter awards with 96.022 statistical points alongside Criss Cross teammate Noel Kampton, who tallied 74.022 points, as deliberated by print and online scribes covering the men’s club league organized by Sports Vision.

Also part of the 2025-26 Spikers’ Turf Mythical Team are back-to-back Best Setter winner Adrian Villados with 66.670 statistical points and John Pepito, who shone brightly amid a three-man libero rotation throughout the two conferences, ranking sixth overall in the Invitational Conference and third overall in the Open Conference en route to 50.956 statistical points.

Huby heroics not enough as Shulchenko wins Tour

By Riera U. Mallari

BAGUIO CITY (Powered by PLDT Home) –The

2026 MPTC Tour of Luzon ended with a flourish for

Frenchman Antoine Huby of 7-Eleven, but the bigger celebration belonged to Russian LCW UAE Cycle star Nikita Shulchenko, who rode to overall victory without a hitch after protecting a massive buffer in the final stage before a loud and animated crowd here on Wednesday.

Huby lit up the Baguio climbs with one last daring assault, clocking 4:26:42 to capture his third stage win of the Tour and trimming 2 minutes and 12 seconds from Shulchenko’s advantage.

It was a bold ride worthy of the finale, but far from enough to erode the

Sinner dismisses

Pellegrino to reach Italian tilt quarters

ROME—Jannik Sinner’s charge towards a first Italian Open title continued on Tuesday after the world number one calmly dispatched countryman Andrea Pellegrino 6-2, 6-3, while Alexander Zverev suffered a shock exit at the hands of another local hero in Luciano Darderi.

Second seed Zverev fell 1-6, 7-6 (12/10), 6-0, the German collapsing to defeat in front of a passionate crowd that roared on 18th-seeded Italian Darderi. But as expected, top seed Sinner outclassed qualifier Pellegrino on centre court in a match which was in truth never much of a contest.

The 24-year-old Sinner has now won 31 straight matches in Masters 1000 events to equal Novak Djokovic’s record run.

“I’m very happy about the outcome, but at the same time I’m very happy for him, I know he’s working very hard,” said Sinner of Pellegrino.

“Tomorrow, a day off is important for me, trying to rest, and then hopefully I’m ready for quarters.”

Pellegrino’s arrival in the last 16 of his home tournament is by far his best result in a Masters 1000 event.

The 29-year-old is set to move up to a career-best world ranking of 123rd after not just making the main draw of a top-ranked ATP tournament for the first time but also getting to face his country’s biggest sporting star in front of over 10,000 fans.

Pellegrino received warm cheers as he put in a creditable performance against the dominant force in tennis, and he also showed some deft technique when given room to breathe by Sinner. But Sinner was never in top gear and still comfortably dealt with Pellegrino to set up a clash with 12th seed Andrey Rublev.

Should Sinner win a record-extending sixth

Russian’s nearly four-minute cushion at the start of the day.

“I’m happy to win the last stage, but I’m just too tired (to win the overall title) and go faster. But I did my best,” said Huby, unable to dismantle Shulchenko’s big advantage, built brick by brick in the

Tour’s most punishing days.

Shulchenko’s runner-up finishes in the savage mountain stages over Bessang Pass and Daang Kalikasan, along with equally clinical rides in the Paoay and Lingayen time trials, had already pushed the rest of the field into a battle for secondary honors long before the caravan reached the Baguio climb.

After 14 gruelling stages against the heat, wind and steep mountain slopes, the 26-year-old Shulchenko stopped the clock at 41:11:10 in total time. He was promptly escorted away after the race for mandatory drug testing, unable to talk to reporters waiting at their team tent.

Huby settled for second overall, a minute and 34 seconds behind.

Completing the podium was

Shulchenko’s young Syrian teammate, Yousef Ibrahiem Alrefai, who described the Tour of Luzon as the toughest race he has ever experienced. He finished third overall, 6:45 off the winning time.

The loudest cheers from the home crowd, however, were for 23-year-old MPT Drive Hub Cycling Team’s Nash Joshua Lim, whose sixth-place effort in the “killer” Baguio stage lifted him to fifth overall in the general classification, 9 minutes and 13 seconds behind Shulchenko.

Lim’s steady presence in both the mountain and points competitions throughout the Tour earned him recognition as the best-performing Filipino rider of the race.

Elorde named PH Boxing Federation chief

By Randy M. Caluag

GABRIEL “Bebot” Elorde Jr. has been appointed president of the Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF), the country’s official governing body for professional boxing. Elorde, 69, succeeds the late Dante Almario.

He is the son of the legendary Gabriel “Flash” Elorde, widely considered one of the greatest Filipino boxers in history.

“We will do our best to make boxing active again in the Philippines with the help of our fellow PBF members,” Elorde said.

He added that the federation, which is recognized by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), remains focused on developing the sport from grassroots levels to elite competition.

The PBF also announced its new leadership team, including vice presidents Glenford Rafa (Internal), Gerry Balmes (External), Edito Villamor (Visayas), and Jean Claude Manangquil (Mindanao). Former world champion Gerry Peñalosa will serve as an adviser.

The board of directors includes several prominent figures from the regional boxing community, including Cucuy Elorde, John Servania, and Art Monis.

Magnolia’s Barroca named PBA Best Player of Week

MARK Barroca was a big reason for Magnolia’s sizzling finish to the PBA 50th Season Commissioner’s Cup eliminations.

Barroca averaged 11.5 points, 7.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds for Magnolia on his way to winning the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period May 5-10.

The Magnolia veteran was huge in Magnolia’s 106-94 win over TNT where he had 15 points and 12 assists. Barroca played a big role in facilitating Clint Chapman in the game with the Hotshots import scoring 42 points in the win.

Barroca, however, said the credit goes to the entire team for the huge victories.

“Lahat kami, hindi lang ako. May game plan kami. Marami kaming schemes kasi TNT talented team, bawat player may scheme kami. Kailangan naming mag-focus talaga,” said Barroca, The former Far Eastern University guard closed the eliminations by contributing eight points and three assists against Meralco.

Barroca beat the likes of Robert Bolick of NLEX, Zavier Lucero of Magnolia, Jericho Cruz of San Miguel, and Christian Manaytay of Rain or Shine in the weekly ering the PBA

La Salle reclaims IIT control as Bucay rallies past Herrera

TAGAYTAY—Phoebe Bucay mounted a stirring comeback and powered La Salle-1 back into command as the Taft-based squad moved within 18 holes of completing a sweep of the women’s individual and team titles in the second ICTSI Intercollegiate Tournament at Midlands here on Wednesday.

Facing a five-stroke deficit entering the third round, Bucay flipped the script with a gritty performance at the demanding Lucky 9 course, carding a 103 and capitalizing on Kristyanna Herrera’s struggles down the stretch to seize a five-shot lead in the individual race.

The pivotal turnaround came at the last nine holes, where Bucay battled through for a 48 while Herrera faltered with a 58 after matching Bucay’s opening 55 at the backside of the Midlands layout. The huge 10shot swing enabled Bucay to wrest back control with a 54-hole aggregate of 313.

Now just 18 holes away from capturing her first-ever championship, Bucay is battling not only to hold off Herrera’s highly anticipated comeback and the rest of the field’s mounting challenge, but also to overcome her own nerves.

“If ever, this would be my first championship. I’m kind of nervous and feeling the pressure, but I want

to do well for La Salle,” said Bucay, who, after wrap ping up her round, immediately went back to work by fine-tuning her short game, particularly her pitching and putting.

The momentum shift likewise fueled La Salle-1’s decisive charge in the team compe tition. Backed by Stacey Chan’s 102, the Lady Archers assembled a 205 for a three-day total of 635, stretching their lead to 17 shots over Enderun heading into the final round of the tournament organ ized by ICTSI and the Philippine Golf Foundation.

Ateneo’s Tatiana Ong, competing individually, carded a 100 to seize third spot with a 321, while Chan stood just a stroke back at 322 and St. Benilde’s Oliva Bermudo in fifth with a 334 after a 110.

But despite La Salle’s commanding position, Ender un remains capable of mounting a late rally.

Herrera still stayed within striking distance in the individual contest at 318 despite a costly 113, while teammate Daine Pillerin, though struggling with a 119 for a 340, could still help ignite a final-round fight back after Enderun closed the day at 652.

St. Benilde stood at 669 after a 223, while Mapua pooled a 697 following a 235.

US, Japan, PH speed up Luzon corridor projects

By Othel V. Campos

THE United States, Japan and the Philippines are accelerating energy development under the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) as the partners push infrastructure plans to strengthen energy security and long-term economic growth.

Meralco says power rate lower in May

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) an-

nounced on Wednesday a decrease of P0.0151 per kilowatt-hour in its May electricity rate, bringing the overall cost for a typical household down to P14.3345 per kWh from P14.3496 in April.

The reduction comes despite upward pressure on generation costs, which the utility attributed to proactive interventions by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to shield consumers from high energy prices caused by geopolitical tensions. Meralco vice-president and corporate communications head Joe Zaldarriaga said that while rates remain relatively stable, total bills may still rise on higher consumption during the summer months. He urged customers to practice energy efficiency as the dry season typically drives up the use of cooling appliances.

Various mitigating measures approved by the ERC helped offset a spike in the generation charge, which rose to P8.7942 per kWh in May from P8.3864 the previous month.

The regulator directed the acceleration of an ongoing refund, increasing the residential credit to P0.4278 per kWh. The ERC also ordered Meralco to return the remaining P14.2 billion to consumers over 12 months rather than the original 2-year period. Taxes and other charges saw a net decrease of P0.1482 per kWh this month.

The ERC also suspended the collection of the P0.0371 per kWh Green Energy Auction Allowance from May to June 2026.

The LEC steering committee reviewed progress across priority sectors during its inaugural meeting Wednesday, focusing on modern infrastructure designed to support rising demand and improve system resilience. The committee also reported steady progress in transportation and logistics, including rail and airport modernization projects aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and international trade.

Digital connectivity and advanced manufacturing initiatives serve as key pillars for the corridor. These projects position the LEC as a strategic node in global technology supply chains and complement the Pax Silica initiative, to which the three nations are signatories.

The trilateral partnership recently expanded to include Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, South Korea, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

The expansion reinforces the partnership’s role in strengthening supply chain resilience and regional cooperation while stressing the importance of a transparent, business-friendly regulatory environment to attract private investment. Sweden is providing development financing and technology expertise to the corridor, starting with a P74-million grant for rail feasibility studies. The Swedish development finance institution Swedfund funded the studies, which focus on rail signaling and systems projects.

“This is a great opportunity for Sweden to contribute to the Philippines’ development and competitiveness. The Luzon Economic Corridor is critical to developing this important economic area,” Sweden Ambassador to the Philippines Anna Ferry said.

SEC suspends monthly late filing penalties

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Wednesday it suspended the imposition of monthly penalties for the late or non-filing of reportorial requirements until the end of 2026 to reduce compliance costs and encourage corporations to update their records.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

TWO United States-based satellite providers expect to launch services in the Philippines within the year as the government moves to reduce internet costs and expand digital infrastructure, a top official said Wednesday.

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda told reporters the first provider should finish its preparations this month because its service is ready. The second provider will likely roll out

by the end of the year. Both companies have already completed proof of concept testing, he said.

Aguda said reforms under the Konektadong Pinoy Act could attract at least $1.5 billion in annual investments from new telecommunications players.

The law aims to lower connectivity costs by streamlining the entry of internet service providers and accelerating permit registrations to foster market competition.

To support this growth, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently opened the telecommunications sector to

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Wednesday it restored mobile and broadband services across Metro Manila and parts of Luzon late May 12 following a network disruption caused by multiple fiber cuts.

Service returned to normal by 10:30 p.m. after technical teams completed repairs. The disruption left customers in Metro Manila and Rizal struggling with intermittent calls, texts and data.

Initial investigations showed that a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) subcontractor damaged underground fiber optic cables during drainage excavation works in Paco, Manila. The activity caused multiple cuts to core lines critical to service delivery.

foreign ownership. The policy change under the 13th Foreign Investment Negative List expands access to one of the most capital-intensive industries in the country. The agency also secured grants of $1.7 million and $2.5 million from international funding institutions. Aguda said the government will use these funds to map out a strategy under the National Digital Connectivity Plan to expand fiber infrastructure across Lu

Globe service planning and engineering senior vice-president Joel Agustin said the disruption could have been prevented with prior coordination from government agencies.

“It is very unfortunate this disruption happened which could have been prevented had there been prior coordination with some agencies,” Agustin said. The company is conducting a broader investigation into the series of cuts reported in several areas to determine if the incidents were coincidental or carried out in succession.

Globe said it is working with contractors and authorities to establish the circumstances of the outage.

Darwin G. Amojelar

The regulator said it approved the suspension of monthly compounding fines as provided under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2024. The suspension will remain in effect until Dec. 31, 2026. Under existing rules, one-person corporations and domestic stock or non-stock corporations incur an additional P1,000 penalty for every month of continuing violation. This is added to a base fine that varies depending on the firm’s retained earnings, fund balance or equity.

Corporations with negative retained earnings are charged an additional P500 for every month of delay.

The SEC said that only the monthly penalty component is suspended. Base fines for late or non-filing of reports still apply based on the existing schedule of penalties.

The suspension covers corporations with pending monitoring applications. Firms that have received final assessments but have not yet settled payments will be issued updated assessments that exclude the monthly penalties. However, corporations that paid penalties before May 5 are not entitled to refunds or credits.

“By suspending the compounding monthly penalties, we are providing corporations an opportunity to get back their good standing without the burden of mounting transaction costs, as part of our goal of pushing corporations toward full compliance and sustainable growth,” SEC chairman Francisco Lim said.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

AN

Rising electricity prices continue to pester consumers

ABRUPT increase in fuel prices creates a chain reaction that shrinks the wallets of every man and woman.

It also strikes a nerve when it directly raises the cost of electricity. Monthly household budgets suddenly contract once higher electricity rates take a bigger share of the expenditure.

Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), the biggest private power distributor in the Philippines, takes the flak when fuel price adjustments take place.

For one, Meralco’s rates are considered one of the highest in Asia. That notoriety makes its consumers suspect that something is amiss in the electricity distributor.

Meralco, in addition, is a monopoly and regulators like the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the Department of Energy (DOE) should monitor closely its operations to protect the interest of consumers.

How Meralco gets away with the prohibitive rates … deserves a closer look.

How Meralco gets away with the prohibitive rates it charges to consumers deserves a closer look.

Metro Manila’s eight million Meralco consumers are paying P14.35 per kWh for their April consumption, among the highest residential electricity rates in Asia. Smaller provincial cooperatives with a fraction of Meralco’s resources, in contrast, charge their their customers at P9 to P12 per kWh.

Meralco has planned another rate increase for the May billing. Fortunately, it opted for a cost adjustment that would cut by more than half the projected increase in generation charges for consumers in May.

Meralco had initially sought an increase in generation charges of around ₱1.0277 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Meralco, instead, proposed the early implementation of adjustments under its ERC-approved Power Supply Agreements (PSAs).

The mechanism allows certain cost adjustments from power suppliers to be reflected immediately, reducing the amount to be charged to consumers for the May 2026 billing period.

According to Meralco, the measure could bring down the projected increase in generation charges from ₱1.0277/kWh to around ₱0.4350/kWh.

Meralco must be buying electricity supply at costly amounts. About 52 percent of Meralco’s power comes from imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) and 34.9 percent from coal. Both power sources are purchased in US dollars.

The Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities noted the transition of First Gen Sta. Rita from Malampaya gas to regasified LNG pushed its generation costs from P6 per kWh in 2023 to P8 per kWh in 2025. Meralco accommodated the shift when it renewed the PSA in January 2025.

The higher charge represents a 33-percent increase that is absorbed entirely by consumers through passthrough mechanisms, meaning Meralco’s exposure was zero.

Meralco managed to calculate electricity rates in its favor despite the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (Republic Act No. 9136), or Epira.

Epira was designed to prevent a distribution utility from becoming its own captive power supplier.

Section 45 of the law allows up to 50 percent of supply to come from affiliated companies. Meralco is close to that ceiling, purchasing its power from San Buenaventura Power, the First Gas plants and the MTerra Solar project, all traceable to unit Meralco PowerGen Corp.

As one energy analyst puts it, when the buyer and seller are the same family, competitive pricing is a formality, not a function.

Bayan Muna Representative Neri Colmenares noted that Meralco can renegotiate its contracts to pesodenominated terms, breaking the direct transmission of currency risk to consumers.

Meralco declined the suggestion while the ERC did not require it.

The DOE has flagged the competition risks publicly but stopped short of structural intervention. Congress renewed Meralco’s franchise in April 2025 for 25 more years or until 2053, without mandating a single correction to the cross-ownership problem. The regulated monopoly bargain is simple: in exchange for an exclusive franchise, the utility must serve the public interest.

The public interest in this case, measured against what provincial cooperatives are delivering at lower cost with less scale, has not been served.

A comprehensive audit of Meralco’s PSAs is not a radical proposal. It is the minimum that eight million captive consumers are owed.

The ERC and DOE have the tools but the two regulators are not ready to wield their powers.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com

PH nets $514m in seafood deals at Barcelona expo

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines reported more than $514 million in actual and negotiated deals at the 32nd Seafood Expo Global (SEG) here, following rising international demand for the country’s seafood and aquaculture products.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) said consolidated sales from the Philippine delegation reached $514.8 million, or approximately P31.68 billion, during the global trade event.

DA Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate, who headed the delegation, said booked sales totaled $450.6 million (P27.73 billion), while negotiated agreements reached $64.17 million (P3.95 billion).

Bayate said the strong results reflect the competitiveness of Philippine exporters and the importance of government support in helping firms comply with international regulations.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the country’s performance at SEG 2026 highlighted vast opportunities for seafood exports.

“SEG 2026 shows that, like the oceans themselves, there is a vast market for Philippine seafood if we improve standards and marketing,” Tiu Laurel said.

With more than 2,000 exhibitors participating in the expo, officials said the Philippines’ showing reinforced the country’s reputation as a reliable seafood supplier in the global market.

The DA said continued government support in regulatory compliance, technical assistance, and logistics will be crucial in helping exporters capitalize on growing global demand.

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

FINANCIAL PARTNERSHIP. JCB International Co. Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co. Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, signs a memorandum of agreement with the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) on April 30, 2026. Key initiatives under the partnership include developing and localizing financial education materials tailored to the needs of Filipino consumers, and supporting industry-wide advocacy campaigns that highlight the importance of sound financial management. Signing the agreement are CCAP chairman Rolando Ebreo and president Geraldine Liggayu and JCB International executive vice president Takumi Takahashi. The signing was

Meralco, engineers urge solar installation standards

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) voiced strong support for solar panel installations as a tool for energy efficiency while cautioning the public that improper setups pose significant fire and safety risks.

The country’s largest power distributor is expanding solar technology across its own facilities to reduce operational energy use.

Meralco executive vice-president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho said the company aims to practice the resource conservation it encourages among its customers.

“We believe that if a technology can help save resources and improve efficiency, we should also practice it ourselves,” Aperocho said. Through its Resource Conservation and Efficiency Program launched in 2020, Meralco has installed solar panels at its Pasig City headquarters, business centers and sector offices.

The company also operates a subsidiary, MSpectrum, to help residential and commercial Philippine customers transition to renewable energy.

Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said the utility supports the shift through its net metering program, which lets customers export excess

IN BRIEF

DA lifts California meat import ban

DEPARTMENT of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. lifted a temporary ban on poultry imports from California following the resolution of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in the US state. The restriction previously covered domestic and wild birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs and semen. Tiu Laurel said the move helps secure a stable food supply while protecting the local poultry industry from biosecurity hazards.

“Lifting the import ban restores vital trade flows while protecting local agriculture. It ensures access to high-quality poultry products without compromising biosecurity,” he said. US veterinary authorities reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health that all HPAI outbreaks in California were resolved. Under a regionalization agreement between the Philippines and the United States, statewide trade restrictions apply only when 3 or more counties report active cases.

The agency expects the removal of the ban to stabilize poultry supply and prices, which fluctuated during the suspension. Renewed imports from California could also improve efficiency and competitiveness in the local sector, the department said. Othel V. Campos

JG Summit’s core profit dropped 8% in first quarter

JG SUMMIT Holdings Inc. said Wednesday its core net income fell 8 percent to P6.9 billion in the first quarter of 2026 as rising fuel costs, a weaker peso and higher interest expenses dragged on earnings.

The Gokongwei-led conglomerate reported that consolidated revenues rose 7 percent to P99.9 billion during the January-to-March period. Operating profit increased 9 percent to P17.1 billion, fueled by robust consumer and leisure spending across its travel, food and real estate units. Higher interest expenses from debt absorbed from its discontinued petrochemical unit also pressured the bottom line. Net income from continuing operations, which includes foreign exchange translation losses from dollar-denominated debt, dropped 27 percent year-on-year to P5.5 billion. “Rising fuel costs and peso depreciation are creating dual pressures—compressing margins while simultaneously weighing on consumer purchasing power,” JG Summit president and chief executive Lance Gokongwei said. The group is navigating geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty, specifically the impact of Middle East conflicts on fuel prices and freight costs. Gokongwei said the company is implementing austerity measures to drive cost discipline and maintain balance sheet strength.

Jenniffer B. Austria

PCC seeks bidding for power franchises

THE Philippine Competition Commission is pushing for reforms to introduce greater competition in the electricity distribution sector as several electric cooperative franchises approach expiration within the next five years. The PCC Economics Office, in a recent policy dialogue with the National Electrification Administration, recommended changes in the ownership structure of electric cooperatives and the adoption of competitive selection processes for distribution franchises. The antitrust body said opening franchise areas to competitive bidding could improve operational efficiency, lower costs and encourage better services for consumers. However, the commission warned that ownership reforms could also increase market concentration and vertical integration if safeguards are not properly designed. To address this, the PCC proposed competitive selection processes that would maintain a wide pool of bidders, including incumbent and prospective distribution utilities. The agency said reforms should consider possible affiliations between cooperatives and power generation firms while ensuring continued electricity service in remote and underserved communities.Othel V. Campos

AmCham urges safeguards to land use bill

By Othel V. Campos

THE American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) urged lawmakers to incorporate stronger investor safeguards, local government support and infrastructure financing mechanisms into the proposed National Land Use Act (NLUA) as the measure moves to the Senate.

power back to the grid for credit. However, he warned that failure to comply with government regulations can lead to disasters.

“Substandard installations and facilities may cause accidents,” Zaldarriaga said, specifically citing the risk of electrical fires.

The Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines Inc. (IIEE) joined the call for stricter adherence to safety protocols. While the group supports the transition to cleaner energy, it said that the design, installation and maintenance of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems should be handled exclusively by licensed electrical practitioners.

The business group said the House of Representatives’ recent approval of House Bill 8466 will help address fragmentation in planning systems, improve coordination among agencies and local government units (LGUs) and support more orderly infrastructure and economic development.

AmCham described the bill as a “timely and significant reform” that would help establish a more rational, sustainable and investment-supportive land use framework in the country.

To ensure effective implementation, AmCham proposed a defined funding mechanism for LGUs to support training, systems upgrading, technical assistance and institutional strengthening.

The group said the success of the law would largely depend on local capacity.

SOLUTION. The city hovernment of Bacolod taps PLDT Enterprise to deploy the Unified 911 system, with the city serving as the pilot site for the enhanced nationwide 911 platform powered by the Genesys cloud-based system. Attending the signing ceremony are Bacolod Mayor Greg Gatasaya (third from left), Hazel Amoyan (fourth from left), CRM head-Visayas, PLDT Enterprise; Marty Go, city executive secretary; Mae Agnes Legaspina, relationship manager executive – NIR, PLDT Enterprise; Anna Marie Pornan, DRRMO head; PLDT Western Visayas business head Sarah Jane Martin and city MIS Edrian Robete.

Ayala’s first-quarter profit fell 5% on lower property earnings

AYALA Corp. reported a 5-percent decline in its first-quarter net income to P12 billion as lower earnings from its property business and other units offset growth in its banking, telecommunications and energy arms.

Core net income, which excludes one-off items, remained flat at P11.2 billion for the January-to-March period. The conglomerate attributed the decline in reported earnings partly to a high base in 2025, which included a P1.7-billion dilution gain from Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group’s investment in fintech platform Mynt.

Earnings from Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Globe Telecom Inc., alongside contributions from AC Energy and Infrastructure Corp., cushioned the softer results from Ayala Land Inc. (ALI).

“Given global macro conditions, our near-term focus is on resiliency through stronger cash generation,

SHELL Pilipinas Corp. reported a net income of P1.6 billion in the first quarter of 2026, navigating a period of heightened uncertainty as market volatility in March disrupted energy sectors.

The company said it relied on an integrated supply chain and disciplined operations to maintain fuel availability across the Philippines. Core earnings stood at P108 million, which the company attributed to margin pressure from pricing lags and intensified market competition toward the end of the quarter.

While total volumes grew 2 percent, the company noted that strong performance in January and February

prudent cost management, and disciplined capital allocation. Our portfolio is positioned for long-term value creation,” Ayala chief executive Cezar Consing said.

BPI remained the largest contributor to the conglomerate after posting a 2-percent increase in net income to P16.9 billion. The banking unit cited strong loan growth and higher fee income for the performance.

Globe reported a 9-percent rise in core net income to P4.9 billion, led by sustained demand for data services and improved equity earnings from affiliates.

ALI recorded a 23-percent drop in net income to P5.4 billion as property development revenues slowed. Residential revenues fell 21 percent to P17.4 billion, while total property development sales declined 22 percent to P28.2 billion because the company lacked new launches during the quarter.

Jenniffer B. Austria

softened in March as affordability pressures and geopolitical tensions rose.

“The first quarter was uneven. Our underlying performance was stronger in January and February, but conditions changed sharply in March as market volatility intensified,” Shell Pilipinas president and chief executive Lorelie Quiambao Osial said.

Market conditions shifted abruptly in March as oil prices climbed, the Philippine peso weakened and inflation impacted working capital. In response, Shell Pilipinas increased its inventory levels to ensure supply continuity.

AmCham also called for a clear and time-bound transition framework to protect existing and pipeline investments and provide predictability for projects under development or approval.

The chamber said investor confidence and economic continuity would depend on minimizing disruptions to long-term commitments and establishing clear timelines for the implementation of new land use rules.

The group supported the creation of a National Land Use Commission under the Office of the President but stressed the need for clearly defined agency roles and stronger inter-agency coordination. It also highlighted the role of the National Economic and Development Authority in aligning land use planning with national development

DD to launch tender offer for MerryMart

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DOUBLEDRAGON Corp. will launch a mandatory tender offer for minority shareholders of MerryMart Consumer Corp. as part of its acquisition of the retail company, the property developer said in a stock exchange disclosure Wednesday. The tender offer period will run from May 18 to June 16, 2026. The offer became mandatory after DoubleDragon acquired a 35-percent interest in MerryMart for P1.2 billion in 2025, bringing the retailer directly into the DoubleDragon group. Under the terms of the offer, MerryMart shareholders will receive P0.48 per share. The payment will be split equally between cash and DoubleDragon common shares, with the latter valued at P9.30 each.

The price represents a 20-percent premium over the P0.40 closing market price of MerryMart shares on May 8, 2026. DoubleDragon said the P9.30 valuation for its own shares sits about 52 percent lower than its latest available book value of P19.21 per share.

The Philippine Competition Commission has already cleared the transaction. DoubleDragon expects the acquisition to add more than P7 billion in recurring annual revenues from MerryMart’s grocery, pharmacy and consumer-related businesses.

DoubleDragon said the acquisition aligns with a long-term strategy to expand beyond property development into a broader investment holding company structure.

The company expects MerryMart’s retail and wholesale formats, alongside pharmacy operations in Luzon and Mindanao and grocery businesses in Capiz, to create long-term synergies with its existing portfolio.

“In this environment, our priorities remain clear—safety and wellbeing, business continuity, responsible operations, and helping ensure fuel availability for the country during a period of heightened volatility,” Osial said. She said the fluid environment seen in March has extended beyond the first quarter. Specific sectors showed mixed results. Mobility volumes rose 3 percent due to loyalty programs and site execution, while fleet solutions grew 5 percent following new account wins. Commercial fuels increased 1 percent, supported by the distributor channel. Alena Mae S. Flores

PH consulate hosts tax, investment briefing in Guangzhou

By Julie Ann Lope

THE Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou hosted a tax and investment briefing on April 28, 2026 to pitch the Philippines as a primary destination for Chinese companies looking to expand in Southeast Asia.

Consul General Iric Cruz Arribas opened the event by emphasizing the government’s commitment to creating a transparent and investorfriendly environment.

The briefing targeted Chinese firms, legal practitioners and business chambers to highlight incentives for entering the Philippine market, particularly in the energy sector.

“We continue to enhance ease of doing business and foster a transparent, investor-friendly environment, particularly in priority sectors such as energy,” Arribas said.

Asian Consulting Group founder and chief tax advisor Raymond Abrea described the Philippines as a strategic regional hub. He cited

Business groups bring free medical care to Nasugbu

A PARTNERSHIP between the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and YMCA Manila provided medical and dental services to 550 residents in Barangay Latag, Nasugbu, Batangas on May 3, 2026.

The outreach mission sought to improve access to basic healthcare and address local needs in the Batangas community. A medical team consisting of seven doctors and 10 dentists treated 350 patients and performed 80 tooth extractions during the one-day event.

The mission also distributed 120 pairs of reading glasses to attendees.

FFCCCII social responsibility committee deputy director Xu Huan Dong participated in the activity alongside YMCA Manila staff and barangay representatives.

The organizers aimed to demonstrate continued support for local health initiatives through the mobilization of private sector resources and volunteers.

Michael Wong Ho

a young, skilled workforce and a resilient economy as primary drivers for foreign capital.

Abrea specifically marketed the country to firms adopting a “China +1” strategy, which involves diversifying manufacturing and supply chains beyond mainland China.

He said Philippine special economic zones offer competitive advantages for sectors including manufacturing, technology, infrastructure, renewable energy and IT-BPO.

Recent legislative and administrative reforms have further improved the investment climate by streamlining business registrations and expanding digital government services, Abrea said.

The briefing is part of a broader strategy by the consulate to strengthen commercial ties and attract more investment from South China.

While the event focused on structural advantages, officials noted that the Philippine economy continues to offer high growth potential for international partners.

RCEP promoted as catalyst of cooperation amid tensions

By Michael Wong Ho

THE world’s largest free trade agreement serves as a vital “institutional stress test” for regional cooperation amid global geopolitical volatility, a prominent Filipino analyst said at a high-level forum in Hainan province.

Speaking at the 2026 Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Media & Think Tank Forum held on May 8 to 11, columnist Wilson Lee Flores described the trade bloc as the “room where neighbors keep talking positively and trading while the storm passes.”

He described external geopolitical tensions as the “typhoon outside.”

The forum, themed “RCEP: Working Together to Address

Challenges and Promote Development,” was organized by China Daily and the China Institute for Reform and Development (CIRD).

The event gathered scholars, media executives and policy experts to discuss the future of the agreement, which includes the 10 ASEAN member states alongside China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Flores told attendees that RCEP demonstrates how 15 economies

with diverse political systems, income levels and legal traditions can cooperate effectively without a centralized authority.

Looking toward the scheduled 2027 RCEP general review, Flores proposed a regional public education initiative to translate technical trade theory into accessible information.

His recommendations included multilingual media campaigns, journalist fellowships to document success stories and university partnerships paired with youth exchanges.

The foundations of the trade pact will become more stable for future generations if the public feels personally included in the journey of regional development, Flores said.

Effective since Jan. 1, 2022, RCEP represents about 30 percent

of global gross domestic product and population. The agreement seeks to eliminate tariffs, reduce trade barriers, secure regional supply chains and stimulate investment across the AsiaPacific.

A three-time Palanca literary awardee and winner of 15 Catholic Mass Media Awards, Flores serves as a columnist for the Philippine Star, Abante and China Daily. Flores, president of Red Apple Properties & Management Inc., also owns the 87-year-old Kamuning Bakery Cafe in Quezon City, where he moderates the weekly Pandesal Forum on public policy and economics.

He holds a degree in legal management from Ateneo de Manila University and completed advanced studies at Peking University and Tsinghua University.

FFCCCII sends 9,000 relief bags to Mayon evacuees

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) mobilized emergency relief for 9,000 families displaced by the ongoing eruptions of Mayon Volcano.

FFCCCII president Victor Lim turned over 9,000 relief bags to the Legazpi Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce for immediate distribution to residents living in temporary government evacuation centers.

The business group launched the mission as the volcano produced large volumes of ash

and pyroclastic flows, leaving the peak in a highly unstable condition.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) maintains Alert Level 3 for the volcano. National government officials have warned residents to remain outside the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone to avoid life-threatening activity.

Roughly 9,000 families from three severely impacted districts of Legazpi City have relocated to shelters after the provincial government ordered evacuations. The Legazpi Filipino-

Filipino Chinese chamber donates rice, toothpaste to Muntinlupa

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) has donated 200 5-kilogram bags of rice and four boxes of Hapee toothpaste to families displaced by a fire in Muntinlupa City. The relief items target residents of Hacienda Rosario, Purok 2, Barangay Sucat, where a blaze broke out on April 29, 2026 The fire injured a person and left more than 200 families homeless. Following a request from Muntinlupa Vice Mayor Stephanie Teves-Wong, FFCCCII president Victor Lim directed the federation’s social welfare and social responsibility committee to organize immediate assistance for the affected community.

Teves-Wong representative Miraflor Cayer accepted the supplies at the FFCCCII headquarters during a turnover ceremony on May 4, 2026. The federation frequently coordinates with local government units to provide aid during urban disasters and remains a consistent contributor to social welfare programs across the Philippines. Julie Ann Lope

Chinese Chamber of Commerce coordinated with local government units to prioritize the delivery of packs to the most vulnerable communities.

“The fund stands ready to provide additional assistance as needed,” Lim said.

The federation said it remains in contact with local authorities to monitor the expanding affected area.

Volcanologists warn that the current eruptive state could persist for weeks or months, potentially requiring long-term support for displaced populations.

Michael Wong Ho

fire victims

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Season 20 while carrying Filipino pride on a

By Angelica Villanueva

SINGER Jessica Sanchez talked about the growing global presence of Filipino talent and credited a new generation of artists for helping break long-standing barriers in the international music industry.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of her homecoming concert on Saturday, May 16, at the Araneta Coliseum, Jessica talked about her own journey and the wider rise of Filipino performers around the world, noting that opportunities to be seen were once limited, especially in Western entertainment spaces.

Jessica said seeing more Filipino performers break through on international platforms feels especially meaningful given the challenges she faced early in her career.

“When people approach me, and they say, ‘You are a person that represents Pinoy pride,’ it really overwhelms me, and it just shocks me.

SHOWBIZ

Jessica Sanchez on Filipinos making their mark on international stage

Because my whole journey has been on the internet. But when people share that with me, it really hits me deep,” the singer told Manila Standard Entertainment

She added that Filipino artists once struggled to stand out in a music industry largely dominated by White and Black performers in the United States.

“But what people haven’t seen is, you know, the phone calls and the behind-the-scenes of people kind of telling me I couldn’t do certain things when I was younger because I was Filipino-Mexican in a predominantly White and Black music entertainment group. It was really hard for the Filipinos to shine,” Jessica added.

The 30-year-old singer, who won Season 20 of America’s Got Talent and first gained fame as runner-up on American Idol, said she is proud to be part of a wave of Filipino performers gaining international recognition.

“I feel like now we’re really getting our chance out there, and we’re really shining, and we’re really showing everybody all around the world that us Filipinos, we got talent in every area,” she shared.

“So it makes me feel, you know, just really proud in my culture and in my people. And it actually makes me feel really special to be able to have a platform to share on my own to represent the Filipino people as well,” Jessica

Star Magic artists lead this month’s biggest movie releases

By Nickie Wang

STAR Magic artists Donny Pangilinan, Fyang Smith, Jane Oineza, Loisa Andalio, JM Ibarra, and Belle Mariano headline a slate of Filipino film releases this month, spanning romance, drama, and stories rooted in real-life experiences.

Almost Us stars breakout pair Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra (AU) culture and the “best friends to lovers” trope to the big screen. The characters Janine (Smith) and RR (Ibarra) have drawn attention for their natural chemistry, with performances that aim for a grounded, intimate tone.

Produced by Regal Entertainment Inc. and directed by Dan Villegas film premiered on May 6 and is still showing in cinemas nationwide.

“It is a very personal project for me because it mirrors my real-life dynamic with Fyang. It made my acting feel very natural,” Ibarra said of working with Smith. Smith added, “I admire JM’s work ethic and professionalism. He brings intense focus to the work, which I find very inspiring.”

Irene Emma Villamor Midnight Girls and Loisa Andalio lead roles, following Filipina entertainers in Japan and

continued.

Now back in the country, she described her comeback as both a homecoming and a chance to give back to the audience that supported her throughout her career.

“I would not be in this position without the support of the Filipino people,” she said.

Her upcoming Manila concert will feature guest appearances from several Filipino artists, including Vice Ganda, Morissette, Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, and James Reid

She also hinted at plans to collaborate more closely with Filipino musicians, including a possible Tagalog EP currently in development.

“I really, really am hoping that I can extend and stay and hopefully collaborate with many, many more Filipino artists out here,” she shared.

Now a new mother, Jessica said her recent success has changed how she views both music and identity. While she spent much of her younger years defining herself through singing competitions and performances, motherhood helped her see herself beyond her career.

“Music has been my identity in my life since I was very young. And now becoming a mom, I feel like the Lord was giving me a chance to shift my identity from it just being music to

offering a closer look at survival, work, and

“It’s very raw, it’s very real... that’s why it’s emotional. I’m glad we got to do it with each other. I can’t imagine doing this type of film with someone else,” Pangilinan said. Mariano, on the other hand, talked about how the film mirrors their own personal growth as a love team and as solo artists.

“Finding our individuality and identity alone because the film really requires you to find who you are, and that’s where we are, Donny and I, we want to grow as individuals, we want to find our identity.”

Produced by ABS-CBN Films, Tayo sa Wakas opens in cinemas nationwide on May 27.

An official selection at the Far East Film Festival 2026, Midnight Girls opened in cinemas nationwide yesterday, May 13. Belle Mariano and Donny Pangilinan return to the big screen in Tayo sa Wakas directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana. The film presents a different direction from their previous projects, shifting away from familiar kilig” narratives. It follows Cisco (Pangilinan) and Cheska (Mariano) as they confront the reality that deep love does not always lead to a shared future.

Cannes honors ‘Lord of the Rings’ filmmaker Peter Jackson

PETER Jackson , the Lord of the Rings filmmaker, received a lifetime achievement award at the Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday, drawing laughter, emotion, and a standing ovation for his epic cinema and its boost to New Zealand tourism.

Actor Elijah Wood , who played Frodo Baggins in the trilogy, presented the honorary Palme d’Or in a highlight moment for Tolkien fans. Jackson accepted the award with humor, calling it a “stunning surprise” and joking Cannes was apologizing for not awarding his 1988 debut, Bad Taste . He also teased Wood’s new

look, comparing him to Clark Gable Cannes director Thierry Fremaux praised Jackson as a storyteller who reshaped blockbuster filmmaking with groundbreaking technical work and spectacle. Born in Pukerua Bay, New Zealand, Jackson became fascinated with cinema early, inspired by King Kong and later filming homemade projects as a child. He discovered The Lord of the Rings while working as a young apprentice, imagining its potential on screen. His breakout film, Bad Taste premiered at Cannes, followed by

Heavenly Creatures , which brought international attention. He later directed the Oscar-winning The Lord of the Rings trilogy, filmed in New Zealand and credited with turning the country into a major filming and tourism destination. Jackson continued with King Kong (2005), The Hobbit trilogy, and the acclaimed documentary They Shall Not Grow Old , which restored World War I footage. Across decades, Jackson built a career defined by large-scale storytelling, technical innovation, and enduring cinematic worlds. AFP

By Jasper Valdez

OTHERHOOD

Moften begins with the baby’s needs, from feeding schedules to bath time, diaper changes, and the everyday worries that come with raising a child. But Watsons Philippines is also putting attention on the person doing much of the caring.

Watsons executives and partners lead Mother’s Day weekend event focused on family care and self-care for moms

At the Watsons Mom & Baby Experience Hub, launched on May 8, the health and beauty retailer brought together baby care essentials, expert consultations, and self-care stations in a pastel-themed space designed for mothers and their families.

The event places mom care alongside baby care, a reminder that looking after a child does not have to mean setting aside one’s own needs.

Mom & Baby Experience Hub offers wellness stations, consultations, and child-friendly experiences for parents and children

Making space for mothers, too

along with promos and discounts for families looking to stock up on daily care products. Free pediatric consultations were also offered to help parents with concerns about baby care and early childhood health.

Tacub said Watsons aims to support mothers and families through trusted brands, partners, and practical solutions.

“Through our trusted brands and partners, we aim to provide care, guidance, and everyday solutions for both moms and babies, because caring for your family also means taking care of yourself,” she said. The hub features mom-and-baby essentials,

“At Watsons, we believe motherhood is made up of everyday moments—the early mornings, sleepless nights, first smiles, and little milestones that make the journey so meaningful,” said Aika Fatima Tacub, Watsons Philippines senior category manager for Beauty Business.

New tennis facility in Cavite strengthens active lifestyle movement

AYALA Land, Inc. (ALI) is strengthening its push for active living with a new sports development in Cavite after partnering with the Philippine Tennis Center for Excellence, Inc. (PTCEI) to build an International Tennis Center inside the Vermosa estate.

Signed on April 24, 2026, the agreement formalizes plans for a high-performance facility that will serve as the home of the Philippine Tennis Academy (PTA) and support both elite training and grassroots development.

The project aligns with ALI’s vision for Vermosa as a hub for health, fitness, and sportscentered living, integrating training facilities within a master-planned community built around movement and wellness.

Founded by Filipino philanthropists including Oscar Hilado and Romeo Chan, PTA has focused on grassroots sports development, producing national medalists and international-level athletes while supporting scholar-athletes from various backgrounds.

Ayala Land and the Philippine Tennis Academy formalize plans for the new International Tennis Center at Vermosa, which will support grassroots and

The PTA International Tennis Center is designed as a training complex featuring eight tennis courts, one center court, and 16 pickleball courts. It will also include training and wellness spaces, plus athletes’ quarters for 60 to 80 trainees.

While serving as PTA’s main training base, the center will also be open to the public, expanding access to coaching, courts, and programs for tennis and pickleball.

The development strengthens the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub, expanding its role as a destination for sports training and community activity, while combining grassroots development with high-performance preparation.

“Vermosa is designed as an integrated estate where education, sports, and community come together,” said John Estacio, Vermosa senior project development head. “Partnerships like

the Philippine Tennis Academy allow us to create long-term value not just for residents but for the broader community.”

PTA leadership said the facility aims to broaden access while building a stronger pipeline for Filipino athletes.

“This is more than a training facility—it is a platform for opportunity,” the group said. “We are creating a space where every Filipino can access the sport, discover their potential, and join a growing tennis community.”

The project expands Vermosa’s sports and wellness facilities, strengthening its position as a hub for active lifestyles and athlete development in the country.

For mothers, Watsons set up beauty stations offering free hairstyling and manicures, giving them a short pause while exploring the event. A playpen area was also made available for children, allowing them to safely play while mothers moved around the hub.

The experience also included activities built around memorymaking, from photo areas that mark different stages of motherhood to a reflective activity where mothers could write messages to their future selves or their children.

For Mother’s Day weekend, the hub also featured a live portrait station, a flower bar where mothers could create mini bouquets, and a diaper bag charm-making activity.

Tacub said the goal was to create a space where mothers can feel recognized.

and activities

and

“Today is about creating a space where moms can feel supported, appreciated, and celebrated,” she said. The Watsons Mom & Baby Experience Hub is open until today, May 14.

and

Family health advocacy expands through rural medical missions

A PHILIPPINE healthcare initiative is expanding its focus on family wellness in 2026, building on a year of medical missions that brought free consultations, medicines,

and preventive care to underserved communities in Cebu, Tarlac, and Batangas.

The program is shifting toward a more household-centered approach, emphasizing that stronger family health leads to stronger communities. It is also widening its scope to include reproductive health, preventive screenings, primary care for women and men, and nutritional support for children.

The effort follows a series of nationwide outreach activities in 2025 that reached more than 1,000 people across rural areas, working with local medical societies and partner institutions.

In February, a medical mission in Cebu provided pediatric care, orthopedic services for seniors, and cervical cancer screenings for women through a partnership with the University of Cebu Medical Center.

In August, outreach teams delivered consultations, medicines, and vitamins to members of the Aeta community in Sitio Manabayukan, Barangay O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac, in coordination with local medical groups.

In October, a family-centered program in Alitagtag, Batangas, offered consultations and essential medicines, with support from OB-GYN specialists and partner healthcare institutions.

Organizers said the 2025 missions highlighted persistent gaps in healthcare access in remote communities and helped shape the broader 2026 direction focused on preventive and family-based care.

“To stand side-by-side with our fellow Filipinos, particularly in remote areas, and witness the immediate relief and gratitude, that is the most meaningful measure of the program’s success,” said Monaliza Salian president and CEO, in a statement.

The initiative said it plans to continue expanding its community outreach efforts nationwide, with a sustained focus on making healthcare more accessible at the family level.

THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

Writer

JASPER VALDEZ,

Pushing mental wellness into preventive care

Medical institution expands wellness care with new wellness hub

By Angelica Villanueva

FOR many Filipinos, seeking help for mental health concerns still begins with hesitation, not because services are unavailable, but because of the stigma that continues to surround therapy, psychiatric consultations, and psychological assessments.

That lingering discomfort is one of the issues the new wellness facility of Makati Medical Center hopes to address through its MakatiMed Wellness Hub, where mental wellness services are integrated alongside routine executive checkups, laboratory procedures, and preventive healthcare programs.

By Nickie Wang

Located at Ayala North Exchange, the outpatient center was designed as a “one-stop shop” outside the main hospital, offering consultations, diagnostics, imaging services, vaccinations, and wellness programs in what executives described as a more relaxed environment.

But amid discussions on

FITNESS in Metro Manila has always had its own trends and identity: aerobics booms, Zumba surges, boutique cycling rooms that feel like nightclubs with water bottles. Now, a more focused but sharper movement is arriving, carried by Japan’s womenonly training model and landing in Taguig like a carefully placed weight plate.

The entry of Spice Up Fitness into the Philippines signals a different kind of gym culture import. This exclusive fitness movement is focused on structure, repetition, and a tightly defined idea of what training should do for women’s bodies over time. In its program, flashy machines and high-energy playlists take a back seat to a more disciplined approach to movement and progression.

Initially founded in Tokyo, the gym then established branches across key cities, including Harajuku, Omotesando, Nagoya, Shinsaibashi, and Umeda. It also made waves in Vietnam before heading to the Philippines.

Founder Tomo Okabe anchors the program with a background in strength and conditioning certifications, giving the system a clinical tone. The framing is deliberate: fitness as a system, not a mood. That distinction matters in a market where motivation often rises and falls with playlists and social media trends.

The gym’s approach, particularly its focus on lower-body strength and posture through its signature “Glutes in Action” method, reflects a broader global pivot. Training is moving away from purely aesthetic outcomes and toward function. Strength, alignment, stamina, and long-term joint health take priority. The mirror is still there, but it is no longer the only judge.

What makes this arrival notable in the Philippine setting is the emphasis on women-only space. That idea is not new, but it is

cardiovascular screening, cancer detection, and executive packages, much of the conversation during the media launch centered on a quieter health concern, mental wellness.

“We don’t only go for the physiological body, but we also aim to take care of the mind of a person,” said MakatiMed Wellness Hub department manager Dr. Ryan Raymond Y. Bautista, who discussed the facility’s integrated services.

The center offers psychological assessments, therapy referrals, stress management interventions, and access to psychiatrists through the hospital’s neuropsychiatry network. Bautista said the hub can also accommodate consultations for couples, adolescents, and children undergoing developmental

or behavioral assessments.

Executives acknowledged that access to mental healthcare remains difficult for many Filipinos, particularly for patients trying to secure psychiatric appointments.

“Accessibility to a psychiatrist is something that we’ve worked on because that’s the most difficult specialty to have an appointment,” said MMC Professional Services Group head Dr. Noel L. Rosas

Rosas said the hospital coordinated directly with the psychiatry department to assign specialists who can accommodate urgent concerns arising from wellness consultations. While emergency psychiatric cases are still directed to the emergency room, he said, patients seeking therapy or early intervention can usually be accommodated more quickly through the program.

Hospital officials also said the facility was designed to make mental healthcare feel less intimidating for patients who may avoid traditional hospital settings.

“One of the differences is that we are actually doing this outside of the hospital because there are some patients who don’t want to be seen inside the hospital,” Rosas said. He added that the language surrounding

mental healthcare also matters.

“The ease of accessibility of a mental wellness program, not mental illness, mental wellness, should somehow destigmatize this notion that when you see a doctor for a mental consultation, something’s wrong. You want to stay well mentally,” Rosas explained.

The hospital said it has begun working with schools and corporate partners, particularly as more young people seek support for anxiety, behavioral concerns, and postpandemic adjustment issues.

“We actually have a lot of patients who are adolescents because there’s a lot of things going on in their lives that we don’t know,” the medical expert said.

Alongside its mental wellness services, the center also offers preventive health screenings covering cardiovascular care, women’s health, reproductive screening, imaging diagnostics, skin and laser procedures, and executive health packages customized according to patient needs.

But throughout the launch, officials repeatedly returned to the same point, that preventive care is no longer only about detecting disease early but also about recognizing mental health as part of everyday wellness.