Manila Standard - 2026 May 22 - Friday

DOJ: Arrest ‘fugitive’ Bato

DILG: 225k police to track senator; Palace: ICC warrant enforceable

By Rolando Ng III, Pot Chavez, Charles Dantes and Vince Lopez

THE Department of Justice on Thursday ordered law enforcement agencies to hunt down and arrest Senator Bato dela Rosa, who was described as a “fugitive” wanted by the International Criminal Court over his role in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly drug crackdown.

Senate minority

not giving up, says Erwin

By Joel E. Zurbano

A POTENTIAL leadership change is going on at the Senate, Senator Erwin Tulfo revealed on Thursday.

“It is ongoing. Look at the number, 12-11. It appears tempting. The majority has 12, we are 11 in the minority. If one in the majority crosses party lines, game over,” Tulfo told reporters.

Tulfo’s observations came on the heels of the Senate leadership changes last Monday, where Senator Alan Peter Cayetano was elected Senate President, replacing Senator Vicente Sotto III with a vote of 13-9-2.

The present majority bloc comprises Senators Ronaldo “Bato” Dela Rosa, Loren Legarda, Pia Cayetano, Francis Escudero, Jinggoy Estrada, Christopher Lawrence Go, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Robin Padilla, Joel Villanueva, along with siblings Camille and Mark Villar.

The minority bloc consists of Erwin Tulfo and his brother Raffy, along with Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, Lito Lapid, Panfilo Lacson, Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, Risa Hontiveros, Francis Pangilinan, and Vicente Sotto III. It has expanded to include Senators Joseph Victor Ejercito, and Juan Miguel Zubiri.

By Maricel V. Cruz and Rolando Ng III

“I would like to confirm that the Philippine law enforcement agencies, which would include the PNP and the National Bureau of Investiga tion, are now tasked to effect the arrest of Sena tor Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa,” Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said with the

VP Sara impeachment trial to start July 6; Solons want Bato present

By Joel Zurbano, Maricel Cruz and Ram Superable

THE Senate impeachment trial of Vice

President Sara Duterte is set to begin on July 6, with senator-judges expected to physically attend the proceedings as House prosecutors intensify prepara-

tions for the case.

Senator Erwin Tulfo said Thursday that Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano called a caucus Wednesday night where he revealed the date and senators discussed the schedule for the impeachment proceedings.

“The schedule was given yester-

day. Senate President Cayetano called a caucus of all members, and the impeachment trial will begin on July 6,” Tulfo said in Filipino during an interview on Unang Balita.

Tulfo said the Senate would hold regular sessions on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by impeachment pro-

ceedings from 2 p.m. onward. Hearings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are scheduled from 3 p.m. until evening, while Thursdays will be reserved for regular sessions. He said the trial is expected to run three days a week, with Fridays generally designated as break days, although Senate

‘Four senators sent messages of concern’

By Joel E. Zurbano

AT LEAST four senators from the minority bloc took the time to check on their colleagues during the shooting incident at the Senate building on May 13, according to Senator Erwin Tulfo. Tulfo made this remark in response to Senator Pia Cayetano’s accusations that none of her colleagues in the minority reached out to them during the chaos. According to Tulfo, both majority and minority senators utilize a WhatsApp group chat to communicate with one another.

He mentioned that among the senators who sent messages through the chat group following the Senate shooting incident were Senators Francis Pangilinan, Bam Aquino, Sherwin

Ombudsman orders Sen. Chiz to reply to flood control charges

By Rex Espiritu

THE Office of the Ombudsman has ordered Senator Francis Escudero to answer allegations linking him to the flood control mess, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said Thursday.

“Senator Chiz Escudero’s case is al-

ready at the preliminary investigation stage. There was an order to submit a counter-affidavit, which was received by Escudero’s office,” Clavano said in a radio interview.

“I believe our panel is just waiting for his counter-affidavit so the case can move forward,” Clavano added.

During the same interview, Clavano said the investigation into the alleged links of former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez to the flood control mess is also under preliminary investigation.

“The one that has reached preliminary investigation involving Congress-

man Romualdez is the money laundering case,” Clavano said. Romualdez and Escudero previously denied involvement in anomalous flood control projects. Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier said his office is building criminal cases against

DOJ order, the entire 225,000-strong Philippine National Police will join the manhunt to locate Dela Rosa.

“It’s 225,000, that’s the entire PNP,” Remulla said when asked if he will activate the 10,000-strong task force he earlier said will lead the search for the senator.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said they will find Dela Rosa and enforce the warrant “without delay.”

“The order is to arrest Senator Dela Rosa, so we’ll do so without delay. Fugitive Senator Dela Rosa will be arrested whether he likes it or not because we have to implement the law without fear or favor,” Matibag said.

Presidential Communications Office Usec. Claire Castro said the public can expect “swift and legal action from the government.”

“What the DOJ said is clear: The warrant of arrest against Senator Bato is enforceable. You can expect the proper action aligned with our laws from the government. Our officials will do everything to ensure justice is served for all,” Castro said.

Dela Rosa, who served as Duterte’s police chief, was the enforcer of the drug war that killed thousands of people – around 6,000 based on PNP data or as high as 12,000 based on estimates of human rights organizations.

Fugitive from justice

“There is a valid arrest warrant issued by the ICC. He is not in the Senate premises. There is no TRO or any interim order from the Supreme Court. The arrest warrant is now enforceable,” Vida said.

“Senator Bato is a fugitive from justice, and he should be brought to the ICC

to face the charges before him,” he added.

Dela Rosa is on the run after fleeing the Senate building last week, hours after a shooting incident between government agents and Senate security personnel.

The ICC last week unsealed its arrest warrant against the senator, who was named as co-perpetrator of Duterte in the crime against humanity of murder.

The Supreme Court’s interim ruling on Wednesday denied Dela Rosa’s bid for a temporary restraining order, which means the ICC warrant can now be enforced, Vida added.

“We’re pursuing this so that the ends of justice may be achieved,” Vida said, warning that “there are consequences” to anyone who would try to help Dela Rosa avoid arrest.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Nartatez added: “As a law enforcement agency, the PNP shall perform its mandate in accordance with existing laws, due process, and established operational procedures. The PNP likewise assures the public that all actions undertaken shall remain impartial, professional, and within the bounds of the law, with full respect for the constitutional rights of all parties concerned.”

Leads on whereabouts

Vida acknowledged that there are already leads on Dela Rosa’s whereabouts.

“There are leads. As to the exact leads, I cannot discuss them. First, I’m not privy to those leads. They are available to our law enforcement agencies and to their units,” the Justice chief said.

Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remains attentive to calls for justice while ensuring that government actions remain lawful.

“The President is not closing his eyes on those seeking justice. He listens to people crying out for justice,” she said.

Meanwhile, minority senator Risa Hontiveros urged Dela Rosa to surrender while Erwin Tulfo said the Upper Chamber will not move to stop the enforcement of the arrest warrant.

“I repeat our call to Senator Dela Rosa: Respect the law and submit to and cooperate with law enforcement officers and legal processes,” Hontiveros said.

“I pray for the peaceful and lawful resolution of this situation which has already affected multiple institutions, and the entire country itself,” she added.

“By not coming out with a TRO, it means the SC is respecting the standing warrant from the ICC. So why should we interfere with that? Why should we stop it?” Tulfo said.

“Maybe it would be better (for him to surrender) so he would no longer have to go through hardship or hiding. But in the end, it is up to him. It is difficult to force a person. He also has freedom. He also has his own mind,” he said.

‘Warrant personal in character’

As this developed, Tomas Claudio Colleges-College of Law founding dean Salvador Moya II said the arrest warrant against Dela Rosa cannot be served to his legal counsels, contrary to the claim of one of the senator’s lawyers, Jimmy Bondoc.

In an interview with Manila Standard on Thursday, he explained a warrant of arrest is “personal in character” under Rule 113 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure.

“It is the taking of a person into custody of the law to answer for the charge or charges against him. The personality of the counsel starts when the accused is arrested and arraigned by the court,” he said.

Moya, a remedial law expert, said Dela Rosa’s lawyer has no personality unless

shooting incident, revealing fear for her life during the shooting.

the accused is already in custody of law.

Dela Rosa’s lawyer Israelito Torreon on Wednesday said he will ask the Supreme Court to reconsider its ruling denying the TRO request.

“We will exhaust every remedy available under law. We will continue to appear before every proper forum, at every stage of this litigation, with full respect for the Court and with full fidelity to the Constitution.”

“To our client and to all those who believe that the Constitution must remain supreme on our own soil: Do not lose heart,” Torreon said.

On its website, the ICC already listed Dela Rosa as a defendant “at large” for crimes against humanity in relation to the bloody war on drugs during the Duterte administration.

In February, Dela Rosa, Senator Bong Go, and six others were identified as “co-perpetrators” in the crimes against humanity trial of Duterte, documents released by ICC prosecutors showed.

Other individuals also identified as indirect co-perpetrators were former PNP officials Oscar Albayalde, Vicente Danao, Camilo Cascolan, and Isidro Lapeña, as well as former National Bureau of Investigation director Dante Gierran and former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre.

According to the ICC prosecution document, “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).”

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.”

tors Francis Pangilinan, Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, Sherwin Gatchalian, and himself.

that their camp has deliberately refrained from publicly discussing the case details out of respect for judicial proceedings.

“As of now, we cannot speak of the details of the case or the other evidence because it is already the subject of ongoing proceedings,” Atienza said.

“But what we can say right now is that we are confident in the strength of our case and our evidence, and the court is the proper forum where we can test this evidence,” she added.

Mabanta, founder and CEO of Peanut Gallery Media Network, appeared in the proceedings at the Pasig Regional Trial Court along with lawyer Bernice Piñol Rodriguez.

Neither Mabanta nor his counsel gave interviews to the media before and after the proceedings. Mabanta and four others were accused of allegedly extorting P350 million from Romualdez in exchange for not publishing an “exposé” video.

Asked about claims circulating online attacking the complaint and the evidence, Atienza said their camp would not engage in speculation or litigate the case through social media.

She likewise rejected attempts to portray the controversy as an attack on press freedom.

“This is not about press freedom. In fact, we encourage people—if they have anything against any person, they can report that to the authorities. But we should always follow the process,” she said.

She also reminded all parties connected to the case to exercise restraint while proceedings are ongoing.

“Of course. That goes for all. As lawyers and parties to the case, we are all enjoined and instructed not to talk about the merits of the case before the media and social media,” Atienza said when asked if personalities linked to PGMN should refrain from inflammatory online posts.

Escudero and Romualdez.

Ombudsman prosecutors have filed only three batches of flood control cases so far since Remulla’s appointment as Ombudsman in October 2025.

These include:

Malversation and graft charges against resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co and at least 15 others over the alleged P289-million substandard road dike project in Oriental Mindoro;

Malversation and graft charges against contractor Sarah Discaya and several others over the alleged P96.5-million ghost flood control project in Davao Occidental; and Malversation and graft charges against former Senator Ramon Revilla Jr., former Department of Public Works and Highways Bulacan Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez, and five others over the alleged P92.8-million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.

Gatchalian, and himself. Senator Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday delivered a privilege speech condemning the shooting incident, saying it severely damaged the institution’s moral authority and dignity in the eyes of the public.

Hontiveros expressed frustrations over the chamber’s apparent return to normalcy following last week’s chaos after the gunfire.

For her part, Senator Pia Cayetano gave an emotional statement countering claims that the chamber has overlooked the seriousness of last week’s

“So much happened. I am not blaming anyone. But after everything… not a single one of you checked on us… It is very painful for me… if you were not here, do not question what happened to those who were here,” she said.

In an interview with Unang Balita, Tulfo noted that Cayetano’s emotional outburst was apparently born out of fear. But he lamented that Cayetano claimed no one ever dared ask about her situation. We have a chat group in WhatsApp. All senators from both the majority and the minority join that chat group,” Tulfo said in Filipino.

Tulfo added that some people sent in their messages, among them Sena-

sectors have speculated, but rather apprehension about the path the chamber was pursuing concerning the nation’s numerous pressing issues.

The Senate President explained that a significant reason for the shift in leadership was not the impeachment case involving the Vice President, as some

said during an interview on dzME.

committees may still conduct hearings.

The charges against Duterte include alleged betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, culpable violation of the Constitution, and other high crimes.

Minority opposes Bato’s remote participation

Tulfo also rejected a proposal by Senator Rodante Marcoleta to allow Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who has gone into hiding anew, to participate and vote remotely during the impeachment proceedings despite his physical absence.

“Many of us in the minority will not agree to that. We need to be physically present,” Tulfo said. “That was allowed during the pandemic because there were lockdowns and restrictions. Now everything is okay, so presence in the Senate is probably needed.”

House Committee on Justice chair and lead prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro also opposed proposals allowing senator-judges to participate or vote remotely, saying the gravity of the proceedings requires personal attendance.

“My humble submission about this issue is that the senator-judge should personally witness the trial, and he should also personally vote because this process is very important,” Luistro

“With all due respect to Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, we respect him and he is a former colleague in the House of Representatives. However, we need to consider the significance, the importance, the paramount importance of this impeachment process,” she added.

Luistro stressed that senator-judges must personally observe witnesses, documents and video evidence presented before the impeachment court.

“It is very important that the senator-judge personally sees each witness… every paper and video that is presented in support of the Articles of Impeachment,” she said, adding that a witness’ demeanor is critical in determining credibility during trial proceedings.

“The demeanor tells you whether the witness is telling the truth or not,” Luistro said.

The 11-member House prosecution panel has been preparing for the trial following the lower chamber’s vote to impeach Duterte and transmit the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate.

Luistro compared the preparation process to reviewing for the Bar examinations.

“We just laugh at what is happening to us because apparently we are really like law students who have returned to the Bar review,” she said.

The prosecution team includes Reps. Terry Ridon, Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez, Ysabel Maria Zamora, Lorenz De-

He cited the need for proper attention and solutions on the flood control scandal, rising prices, the oil and energy crises, farmers’ productivity, education,

fensor, Jose Manuel Diokno, Leila de Lima, Kaka Bag-ao, Jonathan Keith Flores, Lordan Suan and Joel Chua.

Prosecution finalizing witnesses, evidence

Luistro said prosecutors are finalizing witnesses, documentary and video evidence, and presentation strategies for each article of impeachment.

“We are finalizing of course the list of our witnesses per article. We are finalizing the list of documents to be presented per article,” she said.

“When we say documents, it does not pertain to paper only, it includes even videos and we are also finalizing the nature of the direct examination that we should do in order to establish our case per witness per article.”

She said the panel is also reviewing rules on evidence and courtroom procedures ahead of the Senate trial, while emphasizing that impeachment proceedings are intended to be liberal rather than purely technical legal exercises.

“This was purposely done liberal because of the importance of the subject matter of the impeachment proceedings,” Luistro said. “We are trying to test the fitness of the highest official of the land.”

House trial spokesperson Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said the prosecution panel remained fully prepared despite not yet receiving formal notice from the impeachment court regarding the schedule.

Tulfo recalled sending in his own message about 10 p.m.

He added that Senator Camille Villar responded, saying “Thank you, we’re all okay.”

“I do not know why Senator Pia (Cayetano) did not read the messages,” Tulfo said.

Both Tulfo and Hontiveros previously expressed dissatisfaction with the Senate leadership’s inadequate response to recent events, particularly the shooting incident and the subsequent disappearance of Senator Ronald Dela Rosa who is facing an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court.

corruption, and public trust in government, stressing that these concerns should remain at the center of the Senate’s work.

Last Thursday, Cayetano hinted that a potential leadership challenge is brewing just days after he assumed the top post in the upper chamber.

“Nevertheless, the 11-member prosecution panel remains fully prepared and stands ready to proceed on whatever schedule the Honorable Court may determine,” he added.

Adiong said the proceedings should not be viewed through regional or political divisions, noting that 257 House members from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao voted in favor of impeachment.

“This case must be decided on evidence — not on slogans, political pressure, or social media narratives,” he said. “July 6 is not the start of persecution. It is the start of due process.”

House trial spokesperson Rep. Renee Co said younger Filipinos are closely watching the proceedings and their implications for democratic institutions.

“The next generation will inherit the consequences of this trial,” said Co of Kabataan Party-list.

“This is bigger than personalities and political camps. For many young Filipinos, this is about the kind of political culture we normalize, tolerate, and pass on to future generations,” she added.

Co said many young people are “fed up with endless political drama, scripted outrage, and noise without clear accountability.”

“They want the government to grow up. They want leaders who take institutions, public trust, and accountability seriously,” she said.

The prosecution panel intends to ap-

“At the end of the day, this case will not be decided by hashtags, speculation, or social media theatrics. It will be decided by evidence, by law, and by the courts,” Atienza added. She also confirmed that Romualdez was unable to attend the hearing personally but remains willing to comply with any lawful court processes if necessary.

Atienza declined to disclose the details of the proceedings, including the plea entered by Mabanta’s camp.

“We cannot speak on the details of the case or the other evidence because it is already subject to ongoing proceedings,” Romualdez’s camp said, adding that they are following “strict orders” from the court.

The newly installed leader revealed during a press conference that members of the minority have been actively lobbying his supporters to defect from the majority bloc.

“They are quite busy right now, trying to talk to our members to get them to join them again,” he said.

proach the proceedings professionally and allow the evidence to speak for itself, she added.

“Our role is not to create noise or political theater. Our role is to help present the facts and allow the evidence to speak for itself,” Co said.

“Government is not fandom. Public service is not content creation. What is at stake here is the future of the next generation’s trust in our democracy.”

The Senate formally convened as an impeachment court on Monday after receiving the Articles of Impeachment against Duterte from the House of Representatives.

The articles were transmitted to the Senate on May 13 amid tensions over the reported possible arrest of Senator dela Rosa.

The impeachment court later issued a writ of summons directing Duterte to respond within 10 days upon receipt and to appear before the court when notified.

In a statement issued Monday, Duterte defense spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa said the Vice President’s camp would comply with the process.

“We note that the Senate has convened as an Impeachment Court and that summons will be issued in due course,” Poa said.

“We will comply and file the appropriate response in accordance with the Constitution and applicable rules,” he added. Poa said the defense team would refrain from further comment “out of respect for the process.”

DA files raps over P94m

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture

(DA) on Thursday filed complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman against several officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and private contractors over alleged irregularities involving eight “ghost” farm-to-market road (FMR) projects in Davao Occidental worth about P94 million.

DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu

‘ghost’ farm road

Laurel Jr. led the filing of the complaints, accusing the respondents of corrupt practices, malversation, falsification of public documents, grave misconduct, and serious dishonesty. Among those named were DPWH Davao Occidental District Engineer Rodrigo C. Larete, Project Engineer and OIC-Chief of Construction Section Joel M. Lumogdang, OIC-Assistant District Engineer Michael P. Awa, Quality Assurance Officer Jafel C. Faunillan, Acting Finance Chief Czar

FREE SERVICES. Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval leads free medical, dental, legal, and livelihood services during activities marking Malabon City’s 427th founding anniversary at Malabon National High School. Andrew Rabulan.

IN BRIEF

Philippines, Egypt eye stronger ties

THE Philippines and Egypt reaffirmed their commitment to exploring defense cooperation and discussed the current direction of their bilateral defense relations.

The Department of National Defense (DND) announced that Senior Undersecretary Irineo Espino met with Egyptian Ambassador to the Philippines Nader Nabil Zaki on May 19. Both officials noted the increasing engagements between their countries and anticipated deeper bilateral and multilateral cooperation in defense and security as they prepare to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Philippine-Egyptian diplomatic relations in 2026.

The two officials also looked forward to the conclusion of the proposed Philippines-Egypt Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation, which would serve as a framework for possible areas of cooperation, including people-to-people exchanges and training opportunities.

The Egyptian ambassador likewise expressed openness to possible collaboration in training imams under the Chaplain Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, while Egypt also signified interest in strengthening engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as a sectoral dialogue partner. Rex Espiritu

PH gov’t donates $60K to climate plan

THE Philippines on Thursday announced it contributed an additional $60,000 to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to support programs on climate action, women in maritime, and technical cooperation amid growing geopolitical tensions affecting global shipping routes. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the contribution reflects the Philippines’ continuing commitment to strengthening multilateral maritime cooperation during a time of rising geopolitical tensions.

The donation was formally presented by Philippine Permanent Representative to the IMO Teodoro Locsin Jr. to Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez at the IMO headquarters in London. Locsin said the Philippine government remains committed to protecting the welfare of seafarers, especially Filipinos, while contributing to global efforts that enhance maritime governance, improve safety standards, and promote inclusive opportunities in the maritime sector, particularly for women. The funds will support the IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Program, including efforts to reduce shipping-related greenhouse gas emissions, assist Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries, and strengthen the Women in Maritime Program. The Philippines was reelected in November 2025

the IMO Council under Category C. Katrina Manubay

Ryan S. Ubungen, and several private contractors.

One complaint involved a supposed FMR project in Barangay Caburan, Jose Abad Santos, which was allegedly paid in full at P11.94 million despite not being implemented.

The DA alleged that the respondents falsified statements of work accomplished, certificates of payment, and disbursement vouchers to make the project appear completed and facilitate the release of public funds.

ICC Registry: Duterte under cell monitoring

By Pot Chavez

THE International Criminal Court (ICC) Registry has confirmed that former President Rodrigo Duterte is under cell monitoring for health and safety reasons.

It made the confirmation in a document dated May 20, 2026, saying the activity is pursuant to the Regulations of the Registry.

“The ICC DC Medical Officer (“MO”) provided advice based on Mr. Duterte being ‘an elderly detained person, with increased fall risk due to age and several chronic physical ailments’ and her continual assessment and medical care of Mr. Duterte,” the document reads.

The Registry revealed that there were rare occasions when Duterte did fall, adding that custody staff were able to immediately respond and call for medical assessment.

“Following these rare events, adjustments have been made to his cell to better accommodate his comfort and movement and are adjusted as needed. Regarding his loss of balance, the MO and Mr.

Duterte’s medical specialists are responsible for assessments on a medical level,” it noted.

“From the perspective of management and operational security, Mr. Duterte’s movements are consistent with his age and mobility,” it added.

The Registry shared that no fall has been recorded in the last 30 days. It also recalled that the medical record is available to the former president and his defense team. Further, it assured continual medical care and constant attention.

Kristina Conti told Manila Standard that “it should not affect the trial schedule.”

“He is under observation more as a precautionary measure on the part of the detaining authority. There is no direct impact on the legal necessity to try him, or the urgency to try him now,” she explained.

FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2026

DAR completes two bridges in NE town

IN BRIEF

Bill provides extra benefits to civilians working at WPS

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) hailed House Bill 8673 which seeks to provide hazard pay and other benefits to civilian government personnel involved in operations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a statement, AFP spokesman for the WPS retired Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad welcomed the approval of the measure by a House committee, describing maritime defense as a “collective inter-agency effort” under the government’s whole-of-nation approach. He noted that civilian personnel from various government agencies work alongside soldiers in protecting the country’s sovereign rights and maritime entitlements in the WPS.

“Our civilian partners from other agencies and other bureaus — law enforcement personnel, scientists, researchers and admin staff — work side-by-side with the AFP uniformed personnel in protecting our rights and entitlements in the West Philippine Sea,” he said. Rex Espiritu

De Lima seeks inquiry on P7-b Boracay bridge

HOUSE Senior Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima has filed a measure seeking a legislative inquiry into the planned Boracay Bridge Project amid widespread opposition from affected communities.

House Resolution 1021 directs the Committee on Public Works and Highways, jointly with other appropriate committees, to look into the proposed project connecting the famous island-resort of Boracay to the mainland province of Aklan through barangay Caticlan in Malay town. The proposed Boracay Bridge is a ₱7.78-billion project awarded to San Miguel Holdings Corp. last month. The contract covers financing, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of a 2.54-kilometer road, including a 1.14-kilometer limited-access bridge system.

“Concerns have been raised on the potential socio-economic effects of the project, including the displacement of workers and operators dependent on the existing water transport system between Caticlan and Boracay, disruption of established livelihood systems, and adverse effects on community-based economic structures that support thousands of Aklanon families,” the resolution stated. Maricel V. Cruz

BCDA steps up dev’t of e-vehicles in Bataan

THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is ramping up efforts to advance electric vehicle (EV) development and sustainable mobility in Bataan, following a site visit and engagement with industry partners and local stakeholders at the 200-hectare Morong Discovery Park.

BCDA esxecutive vice president Gisela Kalalo and vice president for strategic projects management Randy Viacrusis led a sites visit and briefing at the Morong Discovery Park with Bataan provincial officials, along with executives of V-Green Global Charging Station Development Corp. and VinFast Electric Vehicle Philippines Corp., to explore opportunities for the potential establishment of an EV manufacturing facility within the facility.

BCDA also witnessed the signing of an agreement between the provincial government and V-Green Global for the planning, deployment, and operation of EV charging infrastructure across the province.

The partnership aims to establish a province-wide EV charging network, support the adoption of EV fleets, promote environmentally sustainable transport solutions, and develop long-term infrastructure for the EV ecosystem. Initial efforts include the rollout of DC fast charging stations, identification of suitable locations, coordination with relevant government agencies, and public awareness initiatives to encourage EV adoption. Dexter See

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has turned over to the local officials of Guimba, Nueva Ecija two newly completed bridges worth P200 million designed to end the travel struggles of local folk particularly during the rainy season.

Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III said the local farmers can now travel more safely, transport

their products faster with the opening of the two bridges that also provide wider access to trading centers and

government services. The bridges will also help stimulate economic activity in Nueva Ecija, Estrella said. The projects included the 41.5-linear-meter Cavite–Sta. Ana Bridge linking barangays Cavite and Sta. Ana, and the 41.5-linear-meter Balbalino Bridge in Barangay Balbalino.

DAR said both structures are expected to provide year-round access for residents, farm machinery, delivery vehicles and traders in agricultural communities that previously relied on narrow, flood-prone crossings.

At least 2,410 residents, mostly farmers, are expected to benefit from the Cavite–Sta. Ana Bridge. On the other hand, 1,161 residents are seen to benefit from the Balbalino Bridge, mostly agrarian reform beneficiaries, as well as smallholder farmers engaged in rice and vegetable production.

“The DAR will continue to help our farmers uplift their lives and improve their livelihoods as we work together in building a stronger nation through agricultural development and rural progress,” Estrella said.

the

House passes bill extending PRC IDs to five years

By Maricel V. Cruz

IN what was seen as a major win for millions of Filipino professionals, the House of Representatives on Wednesday night approved on third and final reading a bill extending the validity of Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) identification cards from three years to five years, easing renewal burdens and cutting red tape in government transactions. Voting 266 against zero and one abstention, the chamber passed House Bill (HB) 8876, which seeks to lengthen the validity of Professional Identification Cards (PIC) currently renewable every three

years, usually during the birth month of the holder.

The measure was ratified under the leadership of Speaker Faustino Dy III and House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos of Ilocos Norte as part of ongoing efforts in the House to modernize government processes and reduce unnecessary regulatory requirements.

Marcos said the bill responds to the long-standing clamor of professionals for a simpler, less costly and more efficient renewal system.

“Our professionals deserve a government that values their time and hard work. This measure cuts red tape, reduces un-

necessary expenses, and makes public service more responsive to the realities faced by millions of Filipinos,” Marcos said. He stressed that the proposal would significantly reduce congestion in PRC renewal systems and appointment slots while maintaining professional standards and regulatory safeguards.

“This is a straightforward but meaningful reform. Instead of forcing professionals to repeatedly go through the same process every three years, we are giving them more time to focus on their careers, their families and their service to the country,” Marcos said.

PAF bares names of pilots in Benguet plane crash

By Rex Espiritu

PHILIPPINE Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday identified the two pilots killed in the crash of an Aermacchi SF-260 trainer aircraft in Tuba, Benguet. In a statement, the PAF identified the fatalities as 1st Lt. Ruth Angelique Pasos and 2nd Lt. Cherky Embudo, both assigned to the Air Education and Training Command at Fernando Air Base in Lipa City, Batangas. Pasos and Embudo perished in the mishap

with two pilots onboard. The aircraft took off at Fernando Air Base, a primary hub for pilot training, as part of a formation flight headed for Baguio City for a navigation mission over northern Luzon. Such flights are routine for the Air Force to test the situational awareness and flight planning of trainees over mountainous terrain, the PAF said. The aircraft lost communication minutes before it was supposed to touch down at Loakan Airport in Baguio City. Search teams later found the wreckage in a mountainous area in Tuba. The PAF did not immediately release details on what caused the crash, but an investigation was already conducted to shed light on the incident.

and

DILG ramps up LGU role in delivery of healthcare services

By Vince Lopez

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Wednesday it is strengthening the role of local government units (LGUs) in delivering healthcare services through its Local Initiative in Governance and Social Protection (LINGAP) Program as part of bigger efforts to support the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act.

Launched in November 2025, LINGAP serves as the DILG’s umbrella initiative for social protection and gender equality, diversity, and inclusivity at the local level.

The DILG said the program aims to help LGUs improve the delivery of health and social protection services, particularly in underserved communities.

The DILG said it is working with partner agencies and participating in technical working groups developing strategies to address health concerns such as antimicrobial resistance, tuberculosis, and cancer.

The agency added that it has issued joint memorandum circulars promoting healthy learning institutions, safe public spaces, telemedicine services, and the retention of barangay health workers.

According to the DILG, the program also supports the administration’s directive to bring government services closer to communities.

The department said the initiative is aligned with Republic Act No. 11223, or the Universal Health Care Act, and the United Nations’ “Leaving No One Behind” principle under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The DILG averred that healthcare is a “fundamental right” and that the program ensures equitable access to quality healthcare for every Filipino.

OPINION

Sovereignty at risk: The Dermalog controversy

FOR five years, a deeply troubling recommendation has sat dormant in Philippine government files: blacklist a foreign contractor from future bidding because it allegedly posed a national security threat to the country’s driver’s license system. Nothing happened. No blacklisting. No decisive corrective action.

No clear public accounting.

That alone should alarm Filipinos.

The issue centers on German biometrics firm Dermalog Identification Systems GmbH and its long-running contract with the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

According to a 2020 internal audit later cited in an Ombudsman resolution, the contractor allegedly retained extensive control over the country’s driver’s license inventory and printing systems even after the government expected operational authority to be turned over.

This goes far beyond a procurement dispute.

The most disturbing finding was not simply technical dependency. LTO technical officials concluded that Dermalog could allegedly print Philippine driver’s licenses “untraceable by the agency” and potentially even outside Philippine territory.

Whether or not every allegation is ultimately proven in court, the mere existence of such findings within official records should have triggered an immediate and sweeping national response.

Instead, the issue drifted through the bureaucracy unresolved.

The controversy surfaced after the LTO shifted to another supplier for pre-printed license cards in 2020. During testing, the new supplier’s cards reportedly could not be processed by the laser engraver already installed inside the LTO.

The machine repeatedly returned errors unless serial numbers from existing LTO cards were copied. Investigators concluded that serial-number activation and deactivation remained under Dermalog’s control.

Even more astonishing was the operational arrangement uncovered by auditors: when LTO personnel needed to transfer card inventory between district offices, requests allegedly had to be coursed through a Dermalog employee based in Malaysia.

In effect, a sovereign government agency responsible for official identification documents appeared dependent on a foreign private contractor for core system functions. That should have set off alarms across the entire national security establishment.

Driver’s licenses are not ordinary plastic cards. They are important identity documents linked to banking, travel, law enforcement, and countless public and private transactions.

Any vulnerability in the system governing their issuance potentially affects border security, criminal investigations, identity fraud prevention, and public trust in state institutions. Yet despite these concerns, the government response has remained strangely hesitant.

In November 2020, the LTO Technical Working Group reportedly recommended that Dermalog be blacklisted from future bidding.

Five years later, no such blacklisting proceeding has been completed. Meanwhile, disputes over system ownership, source code,

server access, and operational control remain unresolved.

The Office of the Ombudsman itself later dismissed complaints filed against LTO officials who sought to disqualify the contractor from another procurement process. In doing so, the Ombudsman sided substantially with the officials’ concerns, ruling that they had acted within their mandate to protect public interest, especially after national security issues had been officially raised.

Dermalog, for its part, has consistently argued that the conflict involves differing interpretations of contractual obligations and intellectual property ownership.

The controversy surfaced after the LTO shifted to another supplier for pre-printed license cards in 2020

The company maintains that it delivered what was required and that commissioned software remains protected under intellectual property law absent contrary stipulations.

That argument may have legal merit in commercial settings.

But government identity systems are not ordinary commercial products. Sovereignty cannot operate on vendor dependency.

No democratic state should tolerate a situation where a private contractor—especially a foreign one—retains effective operational leverage over the issuance of official identification documents.

This case exposes a deeper structural weakness in Philippine governance: the state’s chronic inability to enforce accountability even after its own institutions identify potentially grave risks.

The facts are already serious enough. An internal audit raised national security concerns. A technical working group recommended blacklisting.

The Ombudsman validated the good faith of officials who sounded the alarm.

The Office of the Solicitor General later asked the Supreme Court to void the contract altogether. And yet, years later, the system reportedly remains partly dependent on the same contractor’s proprietary interface.

This paralysis undermines confidence not only in procurement systems but also in the government’s capacity to defend institutional sovereignty in the digital age. The passage of the New Government Procurement Act in 2024 was supposed to modernize safeguards against defective performance, conflicts of interest, and abusive vendor arrangements.

But laws are meaningless without enforcement. The Dermalog controversy demonstrates that the central problem in Philippine governance is often not the absence of rules, but the absence of political and institutional will to act decisively once risks become politically inconvenient or legally complicated.

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

The impeachment trial of the Vice President

(First of two parts)

IN JULY 2025, the Supreme Court declared the first impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte unconstitutional, ruling that it violated the one-year ban on multiple impeachment proceedings, effectively aborting the trial. At least two new complaints were subsequently filed after the ban had lapsed. A year later, the House of Representatives voted 257–0 to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte for the second time. With the articles of impeachment transmitted to the Senate, the process will proceed under the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Senate impeachment rules. The Senate formally convened as an impeachment court on May 18. Under the Constitution, if the President is on trial, the Chief Justice presides. In all other cases — including this one — the Senate President presides. That role falls to Senate President Allan Peter Cayetano, unless he is replaced by a Senate majority before or during the trial. This removal of Cayetano looks likely and would be perceived as good for the Senate and the trial. The process begins with a writ of summons to the Vice President, incorporating the articles of impeachment and directing her to appear before the Senate to file her answer. This has already been done.

Pre-trial proceedings follow, after which the trial proper begins — with both prosecution and defense presenting evidence and witnesses. Senators then deliberate and vote.

The two-thirds threshold currently appears tight, but votes can shift as evidence is presented and witnesses testify, making the evidentiary phase critical to the outcome

I anticipate that the defense will be filing a Motion to Dismiss. A majority of Senators actually voting is needed to grant the motion. The vote could be close on this. A conviction results in removal from office and permanent disqualification from holding any public office. Acquittal means she remains in office.

MProposed AI hub

ORE than 20 firms from the United States and the Middle East have signified interest in setting up operations within the proposed artificial intelligence (AI) hub in New Clark City, as Philippine and American officials work out the industries that will eventually occupy the 1,619-hectare development.

The initiative forms part of the US-backed Pax Silica program, which the Philippines joined in April. While discussions are still in the early stages, both governments have already agreed on the project’s overall framework.

The report signals a potentially consequential shift in the Philippines’ development trajectory: from a consumption- and services-led economy toward a more technologyintensive, innovation-driven model.

But its significance depends less on headline investment interest and more on execution, governance, and integration into the broader economy.

The proposed AI hub in New Clark City represents an attempt to insert the Philippines into the high-value segments of the global digital economy.

For decades, the country’s comparative advantage has centered on labor-intensive services, especially BPOs. This initiative, tied to the US-backed Pax Silica program, suggests a deliberate pivot toward advanced sectors such as AI, robotics, and electronics manufacturing.

If realized, this would upgrade the country’s position in global value chains, reduce overdependence on low-to-mid skill outsourcing, and create spillover effects in research, engineering, and STEM education.

Interest from over 20 firms, including billion-dollar US companies and investors from the Middle East, Israel, Japan, and South Korea, signals strong early confidence

However, this is not automatic. Many countries attempt similar transitions; only a few succeed because it requires sustained ecosystem-building, not just infrastructure. Interest from over 20 firms, including billion-dollar US companies and investors from the Middle East, Israel,

Sky bridges, citizen science protect endangered Malaysia monkeys

TANJUNG BUNGAH,

bridge strung over a busy residential road in Malaysia’s Penang, watched by local conservationists who carefully record her movements.

For Malaysia’s endangered dusky langurs, recognisable by the “masks” of white fur that ring their eyes, survival increasingly depends on such man-made crossings and the work of “citizen scientists”.

A fragmented habitat, conflict with local communities, and poaching have all pushed the species to endangered status.

But the Langur Project Penang conservation group hopes that low-tech engineering and high-tech community engagement can help protect the species, also known as the dusky leaf monkey.

Key to their efforts is helping the monkeys navigate fragmented habitat crisscrossed by busy roads where the animals are often killed.

LPP founder Yap Jo Leen realised the need for a solution when she saw dusky langurs repeatedly risking road crossings as she carried out fieldwork in 2016.

“I realized that they don’t just stay in the forest. They also cross roads to the coastal area to look for food,” she told AFP.

She came up with the idea of building some kind of crossing, and pairing the solution with community engagement.

“At the time, the idea was wild because no one in Malaysia had actually done it before” she said of the crossing plan.

Similar canopy bridges have helped other endangered primates elsewhere, including in Indonesia, where an orangutan was recently seen using such a crossing for the first time.

‘Safe haven’

Yap’s team experimented with different materials before settling on upcycled fire hoses “twisted to mimic tree branches”.

They are suspended over roads from a tree on one side and a custom-installed pole on the other.

LPP has now installed three, including in

The Senate holds broad authority during the proceedings: it may compel witnesses, enforce its orders, punish contempt, and maintain order.

The Sergeant-at-Arms, who currently has been rightfully suspended by the Ombudsman for his actions that endangered many last week, may be directed to employ assistance in enforcing the Senate’s decisions. The OIC in that position will take his place.

All sessions of the impeachment court are open to the public.

Each article of impeachment is voted on separately, and once voting begins it cannot be interrupted except for a brief adjournment.

The charges against Vice President Duterte are: amassing unexplained wealth beyond her official salary; misuse of confidential funds allocated to her office; bribery; and threatening the President, the First Lady, and the Speaker of the House.

The House prosecution panel is composed of 11 members led by House Committee on Justice Chairperson Gerville “Jinky Bitrics” Luistro of Batangas. The panel has divided responsibilities across the four articles of impeachment, with each prosecutor assigned to at least two articles and each article having both a lead and a second lead prosecutor.

Among the most prominent members are

April in the coastal suburb and beach destination of Batu Ferringhi.

Yap said the group’s research showed they work. At one site, at least eight monkeys died in traffic accidents between 2016 and 2018. No deaths have been recorded since the crossing was installed in 2019.

The crossings also allow groups of monkeys that were once largely confined to an area to expand their range.

“They have more opportunity to venture closer to the hills... and find their way to a safe haven,” she said.

The Langur Project Penang conservation group hopes that lowtech engineering and high-tech community engagement can help protect the species, also known as the dusky leaf monkey

That not only benefits the animals, but decreases pressure on local communities that have come into conflict with hungry roving bands of dusky langurs seeking food in urban neighbourhoods. Addressing that conflict is another part of LPP’s efforts.

It recruits members of the local community to serve as “citizen scientists” who track langur movements, collect data and record GPS coordinates using spreadsheets and the Wikiloc trail app. The volunteers receive a small stipend and training in fieldwork in return for commit-

Mamamayang Liberal party-list Rep. Leila de Lima, Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno, and Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon, all brilliant lawyers I have worked with. Luistro has named Kabataan Party-list Rep. Renee Co and House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur as the panel’s trial spokespersons. The prosecution has expressed strong confidence in its evidence, pointing in particular to PSA certifications, NBI findings on falsified acknowledgment receipts, and a Commission on Audit notice of disallowance on P73 million in confidential funds spent in 2022. Ridon himself has stated that on the unexplained wealth charge alone, the evidence is sufficient to secure a conviction. Prosecution evidence may include Commission on Audit findings, fund disbursement records, audit deficiencies, and legislative testimony on the alleged misuse of confidential funds. The defense is expected to argue the legality of budget use, national security justifications for confidential expenditures, the absence of personal gain, the presumption of regularity in official acts, and the lack of clear proof of any constitutional violation. The standard of proof in an impeachment trial is not as strict as in criminal cases. Rath-

ting to tracking the monkeys for at least three months.

The data helps researchers understand more about the monkeys, including their home range and their feeding habits, and could one day even help guide reforestation efforts.

‘We have to coexist’

The current volunteers range from age 17 to 65 and “call themselves the ‘monkey stalkers’ or ‘monkey whisperers’”, Yap said with a laugh.

Former IT manager Teo Hoon Cheng signed up after encountering “magnificent” langurs on hiking trails over a decade ago.

“You don’t need background knowledge in zoology or biology. Anyone can be a citizen scientist,” he said.

Other locals work with LPP to ease tensions between the community and the monkeys, including retired graphic designer Tan Soo Siah.

“Somebody needs to step up to act as a bridge for this communication,” the 64-yearold said.

Residents complain about the noise the monkeys make when crossing their roofs, as well as occasional “break-ins” when windows are left open.

Tan tries to explain why the monkeys are there, and how they can be gently moved along with a little spray of water. The work has “taught me the meaning of coexistence,” he said.

“It’s good that we can use my experience to show how we can live in harmony with the primates.”

Fellow resident Lim Hock Cheng said the community was gradually learning to accept the animals.

“We’ve encroached into their habitat... We have to coexist, learn to live with each other,” the 66-year-old said.

“The dusky langurs are also part of our society.”

This article is part of a reporting project between Mongabay and Agence France-Presse AFP

er than proof beyond reasonable doubt, substantial evidence sufficient to convince twothirds of the Senate is enough. The threshold blends legal sufficiency with political judgment. Conviction requires a two-thirds majority — at least 16 of the 24 senators, regardless of who is present in the voting. The absence of Bato De La Rosa, or those senators who may be arrested anytime because of their being implicated in the flood control scandal, is unfortunately irrelevant. The two-thirds threshold currently appears tight, but votes can shift as evidence is presented and witnesses testify, making the evidentiary phase critical to the outcome. Facebook: tonylavs Website: tonylavina. com

Emil P. Jurado is on health leave He will resume writing his column when he is fully recovered. — The Editor

Trump says peace talks on ‘borderline’

Top UN court to rule on unions right to strike

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The top United Nations court was scheduled to issue a ruling on the right to strike that both unions and employers say could have profound implications for global labor relations.

The International Court of Justice has been asked to deliver a so-called advisory opinion on whether a treaty drawn up in 1948 by the International Labor Organization implicitly enshrines the right to strike.

The treaty, known as Convention 87, is an agreement between unions and employers including the right “in full freedom, to organize their administration and activities”.

Unions at the ILO say this by extension enshrines the right to industrial action, but employers disagree.

So the 15-judge panel at the ICJ in The Hague will hand down its ruling, which is not binding, but in practice will clarify the right to strike in international law.

The ICJ has been asked the question: “Is the right to strike of workers and their organisations protected under the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87)?” AFP

IN BRIEF

‘rebuild Greenland presence’

NUUK, Denmark – The US special envoy to Greenland, the Arctic island coveted by President Donald Trump, has told AFP Washington needs to rebuild its presence in the Danish autonomous territory. At the height of the Cold War, Washington had 17 military facilities in Greenland, but closed them over the years and currently has just one -- the Pituffik base in the north of the island. Trump has repeatedly argued the United States needs to control Greenland because of national security concerns, claiming that if it does not, the island risks falling into the hands of China or Russia. Greenland is on the

“I think it’s time for the US to put its footprint back on Greenland,” US envoy Jeff Landry told AFP as he wound up his first visit to the island since his appointment in December 2025. AFP

Harvard announces reform to fight grade inflation

NEW YORK – Harvard announced Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time)

US charges former Cuban president with murder

MIAMI – The United States on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time), indicted Cuba’s former leader Raul Castro on murder charges, fueling speculation that President Donald Trump will try to topple the communist state.

The charges against the former president -- who at 94 years old remains influential in Cuban politics -- stem from the deadly 1996 downing of two civilian planes manned by anti-Castro pilots.

Castro is the younger brother of Fidel Castro, the late iconic US nemesis who led Cuba’s 1959 communist revolution.

TEHRAN – Iran has said it was examining a new US proposal to end the Middle East war, as President Donald Trump described the talks as being on the “borderline” between a deal and renewed strikes.

Trump, who said earlier that negotiations were in their “final stages,” later warned that the window for diplomacy could close quickly.

“It’s right on the borderline, believe me,” Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews, near Washington. “If we don’t get the right answers, it goes very quickly. We’re all ready to go.”

He said a deal could come “very quickly” or “in a few days,” but warned Tehran would have to provide “100 percent good answers.”

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran had “received the points of view of the American side” and was examining them. He repeated Iran’s demands for the release of frozen assets and an end to the US blockade of Iranian ports.

Earlier, Tehran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of seeking to restart the war after Trump threatened fresh attacks unless Iran agreed to a deal.

oil blockade.

“There won’t be escalation. I don’t think there needs to be. Look, the place is falling apart. It’s a mess, and they sort of lost control,” he told reporters.

In addition to murder, Castro has been charged with conspiracy to kill Americans and destruction of aircraft.

The US government previously seized on a domestic indictment to justify military action in January that toppled and seized Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, a staunch ally of Cuba.

Trump hailed the indictment on Wednesday as a “very big moment” but played down prospects of moving on Cuba, whose economy has been in deepening crisis for months amid a US

“We expect that he will show up here by his own will or by another way and go to prison,” acting Attorney General Todd Blanche told a news conference in Miami attended by cheering CubanAmericans.

UN members boost nations’ climate change obligations

UNITED NATIONS, New York – The United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution reinforcing states’ obligations to combat climate change, a long-awaited move toned down under pressure from major greenhouse gas emitters.

The General Assembly, driven by the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, previously asked the International Court of Justice for an advisory opinion on states’ responsibility to honor their climate commitments.

The opinion issued last summer exceeded the expectations of climate advocates, with the court ruling it was “unlawful” for countries to neglect their climate commitments, opening the door to “reparations” for affected countries.

“The states and peoples bearing the heaviest burden are very often those who contributed least to the problem,” said Vanuatu’s ambassador to the UN, Odo Tevi, ahead of the vote.

“We are aware that some would prefer this assembly to say less or nothing at all...the harm is real, and it is already here.”

The vote was 141 votes in favor and only eight against -- uniting the United States, Russia and Iran which are all major gas and oil exporters and sought to strike down the initiative. AFP

The Cuban government in a statement said that the 1996 shootdown was “legitimate self-defense” against an airspace violation. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel wrote on X that the charges carry no legal basis and “add to the file they are fabricating to justify the folly of a military aggression against Cuba.”

Five other Cubans were also charged, including the air force pilots who shot down the planes. AFP

Ghalibaf warned of a “forceful response”, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said any renewed conflict would spread far beyond the Middle East.

“The enemy’s movements, both overt and clandestine, show that despite economic and political pressure, it has not abandoned its military objectives and is seeking to start a new war,” Ghalibaf said.

An April 8 ceasefire halted open fighting between Iran and the United States and Israel, but a war of words has replaced the battlefield exchanges. Trump has repeatedly threatened renewed military action, while Iranian officials have responded with escalating warnings of their own. AFP

Solons back more protection for Sierra Madre

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives on Thursday conducted an aerial inspection and site visit in the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park in Isabela province as lawmakers intensified efforts to protect and sustainably develop the Sierra Madre mountain range through a landmark measure filed by Speaker Faustino G. Dy III.

The inspection was led by Speaker Dy together with members of the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization, chaired by Parañaque Rep. Eric Olivarez.

Lawmakers, environmental officials, and technical stakeholders flew over key portions of the Sierra Madre to assess the condition of protected forest areas, watershed systems, biodiversity zones, and communities vulnerable to illegal logging, deforestation, and climate-related disasters.

The activity comes as the chamber pushes for the passage of House Bill No. 3538, authored by Dy, which seeks to establish the Sierra Madre Conservation and Development Authority (SMCDA), a specialized government body tasked to oversee the long-term protection, rehabilitation, and sustainable development of the Sierra Madre region.

“The Sierra Madre is not just a mountain range. It is our natural defense against calamities, our source of biodiversity, and a lifeline for millions of Filipinos,” said Dy.

Stretching more than 540 kilometers along the eastern coast of Luzon, the Sierra Madre contains about 40 percent of the country’s remaining forest cover and serves as the island’s natural shield against powerful typhoons entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

The mountain range spans 10 provinces—Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Nueva Ecija, Rizal, Bulacan, Laguna and Quezon— and helps protect more than 50 million Filipinos living in Luzon.

Exec: 11 of 19 slain in Toboso tested positive for gunpowder

By Rex Espiritu

ELEVEN of the 19 individuals killed in the April 19 encounter in Toboso, Negros Occidental tested positive for gunpowder residue, indicating they may have fi red fi rearms during the clash, a police offi cial in the Negros Island Region said Thursday.

“Although it’s a corroborative test, it’s still an indication that they possibly fired firearms,” he added. Calaoa also confirmed that au-

thorities recovered fired cartridge cases from multiple areas of the encounter site.

“Yes indeed, we collected fired car-

Fr. Hans Magdurulang announces the schedule of the pilgrim relic visit of Saint Sharbel Makhlouf during a gathering at the Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Malate, Manila. The relic will visit several parishes from May 22 to 28, including churches in Mandaluyong City, Calamba, Laguna, and Makati City.

Jerry S. Tan

tridge cases from all the sites. It was not just one site. We collected fired cartridge cases from many sites,” he said.

The forensic official clarified, however, that negative paraffin test results do not necessarily mean a person did not fire a gun, citing several environmental and technical factors that may affect the results.

“It also has to be understood that just because the result is negative does not mean the person did not fire a gun,” he said, explaining the possibility of “false negative” results.

Calaoa noted that many of the bodies

were submerged in water, which may have washed away residue. He also cited factors such as firing distance, moisture, and wind conditions that could affect the presence of gunpowder particles on the hands.

“Most of them were immersed in water. That means their hands were wet,” he said.

When asked whether slain individuals identified as Alyssa Alano and RJ Ledesma were among those who tested positive, Calaoa declined to provide details, saying the investigation remains ongoing.

Fr. Hans announces Saint Sharbel relic visit schedule

By Itchie G. Cabayan

AS part of the continuing devotion to Saint Sharbel Makhlouf, the pilgrim relic will be brought to different parishes and communities over the coming weeks.

This announcement was made by Fr. Hans Magdurulang, parish priest of Our Lady of the Assumption (OLA) in Malate, Manila, as he bared the schedule from May 18 to 28, 2026. According to him, the schedule is as follows: May 22 — Mass for the sick with blessing and distribution of the oil of St. Sharbel at Our Lady of the Assumption; May 25 — welcome Mass at 10 a.m. and thanksgiving Mass at 6 p.m. at San Felipe Neri Parish in Mandaluyong City; May 26 — welcome Mass at 10 a.m. and thanksgiving Mass at 6 p.m. at San Isidro Labrador Parish in Calamba, Laguna; and May

28 — welcome Mass at 12:15 p.m. and thanksgiving Mass at 6 p.m. at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Makati City. Fr. Hans is also inviting the public to visit the OLA to venerate the Blood Relic of Saint Sharbel Makhlouf every Tuesday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “May St. Sharbel continue to inspire hope, strengthen our faith, and lead us into a deeper encounter with God through his intercession,” he said. Fr. Hans led the welcoming of the pilgrim relic of Saint Sharbel Makhlouf in Malate, Manila and has participated in pilgrimages to locations such as the Shrine of Our Lady of Tra Kieu in Vietnam. Saint Sharbel (1828–1898) was a Lebanese Maronite monk and priest renowned for his intense holiness, extreme asceticism, and thousands of recorded miracles.

RULES OF PROCEDURE GOVERNING INQUIRIES

Testimony taken or evidence presented in an executive session, or any summary or excerpt thereof or documents related thereto, in whole or in part, shall not be made public, unless authorized by a majority vote of the Members present, there being a quorum.

Section 8. Attendance of Witnesses. – The committee shall have the power to issue subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum to witnesses in any part of the country, signed by the Chairperson or acting Chairperson and the Speaker or any of the Deputy Speakers authorized by the Speaker. If the committee is unable to secure the signature of the Speaker or any of the Deputy Speakers, the committee may act on the matter by a majority vote of all its Members.

Within Metro Manila, subpoena ad testificandum and subpoena duces tecum shall be served by the Sergeant-at-Arms or his duly authorized deputies. Outside Metro Manila, service of these processes may be made by the appropriate police officer or authority of the town or city upon request of the Secretary General.

Subpoena shall be served to a witness at least three (3) days before a scheduled hearing in order to give the witness every opportunity to prepare for the hearing and to employ counsel, should the witness desire. The subpoena shall be accompanied by a notice stating that should a witness wish to confer with the secretary of the committee prior to the date of the hearing, the witness shall convey such desire to the committee by mail, telephone or any other electronic communication device Section 9. Rights and Duties of Witnesses and Resource Persons. – The rights of witnesses and resource persons including their right against self-incrimination shall be respected.

Witnesses and resource persons who are not government

notified who believes that one’s character or reputation was adversely affected may, within seven (7) days after receipt of said notice:

a. communicate with the secretary of the committee; and/or

b. request to appear in person before the committee in public session and give testimony, at the expense of the concerned person.

Any person testifying under the foregoing provisions shall be accorded the same privileges as any other witness appearing before the committee, and may be questioned concerning any matter relevant and germane to the subject of the investigation

Section 11. Contempt. – The committee may punish any person for contempt, by a vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Members present, there being a quorum. The following shall be grounds for citing any person in contempt:

a. refusal without legal excuse to obey summons;

b. refusal to be sworn or placed under affirmation;

c. refusal to answer any relevant inquiry;

d. refusal to produce any books, papers, documents or records that are relevant to the inquiry and are in the possession of the concerned person;

e. acting in a disrespectful manner towards any Member of the committee or any misbehavior in the presence of the committee; or f. undue interference in the conduct of proceedings.

Contempt of the committee shall be deemed contempt of the House. The person cited in contempt under this section may, upon order of the committee, be detained subject to Section 12 of these Rules.

Section 12. Penalty. – Any person cited for contempt under Section 11, paragraphs (e) and (f) shall be detained for a period not exceeding ten (10) days. Those cited for contempt under Section 11, paragraphs (a) to (d) shall be detained until they comply with the order or requirement of the committee.

Those

FRIDAY,

Olivarez builds momentum for Palawan Open

ERIC Jed Olivarez is hitting peak form ahead of the highly anticipated inaugural Palawan Open 2026, battling through a gruelling qualifying campaign to secure a quarterfinal berth in the M15 Luan Jian An Open in China.

Olivarez displayed immense grit in Lu’an, outlasting ATP-ranked opponents in three consecutive qualifying matches to reach the main draw. He opened his bid by upsetting Japan’s No. 13 seed Yua Taka, 7-6(5), 7-5, before dominating local favorite Xirui Han, 6-3, 6-4. In the final qualifying round, Olivarez showed superb poise, out-steadying Japanese No. 8 seed Shu Muto in a thrilling 2-6, 6-3, 10-8 showdown.

Carrying that momentum into the tournament proper, the 28-year-old Filipino swept the first four games in the Round of 16 against China’s Xiaofei Wang before the latter retired, setting up a tough quarterfinal showdown with Japan’s Kosuke Ogura on Thursday. More importantly, it served notice of his readiness to not just compete, but strongly contend for the upcoming local crown.

Olivarez’s overseas success adds massive intrigue to the Palawan Open 2026, a ₱2 million showcase that unwraps on May 24 at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center. Backed by a hefty prize pool, the tournament represents a monumental leap forward for the local tennis ecosystem.

The men’s singles champion will take home ₱300,000, with the runner-up pocketing ₱150,000, and the losing semifinalists receiving ₱100,000 each. The women’s singles titlist will receive with ₱100,000.

The blue-ribbon event, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, Gentry Timepieces and Bagong Pilipinas, features a stacked international cast headlined by India’s top seed Digvijay Singh. Leading the local defense alongside Olivarez is the country’s top-ranked player, Alberto Lim Jr.

Batang Bolts nip Converge bets, grab lead

BATANG Meralco scraped past Batang Converge, 66-62, and claimed the solo lead in the 2026 Batang PBA 15U division on Thursday at the Victoria Sports Club in Quezon City.

The Batang Bolts bucked a slow start and was steady down the wire to notch their second straight win in the 15U behind Mark Vincent Patungan’s 17 points.

Mihangel Philrick Morre chipped in 15 points while Adrian and Ethan Ray De Guzman contributed 11 and eight points, respectively, for the the Batang Bolts, who will try to complete a 3-0 sweep of the four-team division against Ginebra on Friday for the top seeding in the semifinals.

Damien Caleb Ramos and Treyton Caelli Segismundo had 19 and 17 points, respectively, for the winless Batang Converge.

Earlier, Batang Talk ‘N Text pulled off a 70-64 win over Batang Rain or Shine in the 10U division.

Lucas Gabriel Miciano who scored 37 points in Tuesday’s 79-52 loss to Batang San Miguel Beer, tallied 21 points to once again show the way for the Batang Tropang 5G.

He drew solid coverage from Alden Nubla (16 points), Mateo Alonzo Villaluz (12) and Edward Rovic Andres (9).

The bounce back win wasn’t a walk in the park, though. The Batang TNT, had to weather a ferocious rally by the Batang ROS in the fourth.

The Batang E-Painters trailed, 45-68, but went on a 15-0 late in the fourth to move within eight points. The rally fell short though.

Wire-to-wire romp ends Constantino’s golf slide

CAVINTI, Laguna—Harmie Constantino

completed a dominant return to form, closing with a four-under 68 to capture the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship by six shots over Mafy Singson on Thursday.

The victory marked Constantino’s first major statement since her 2024 Order of Merit campaign, as she controlled the tournament from start to finish on the same course where she previously won during her four-title run two years ago.

Despite shifting weather conditions, Constantino never lost control after entering the final round with a four-shot cushion. She birdied No. 2, matched Singson on No. 8, then pulled away for good with consecutive birdies on Nos. 10 and 11. A final birdie on 17 sealed a 10-under 206 total worth ₱130,000.

“It’s nice that I got to enjoy the last round without any pressure. I was only focusing on myself and didn’t even notice how the other players were doing. My entire focus was simply on how I wanted to play and how I wanted to finish my round,” said Constantino.

Singson settled for second after a 70 and

a 212 total, while Tiffany Lee placed third at 215 after a 71. Sarah Ababa charged to fourth at 216 with a 68, while Yvon Bisera and Seoyun Kim shared fifth at 217. Junior golfer Mona

claimed low amateur honors with a 225.

Constantino credited her resurgence to a stronger mental approach.

“I think my mindset has changed a lot, and it’s something I’ve been working on heavily. Mentally, things are going so much better compared to where I was in 2024, and that is truly the biggest bonus I could ever ask for.” Now regaining momentum, Constantino hopes to sustain her rise throughout the season.

“I hope this year will be a lot better. I’ve changed a lot in how I play and how I think. Mentally, it’s a completely different game for me now, and I feel a level of happiness on the course that just wasn’t there last year,” she said.

“This win means a lot – it proves that my game is progressing through practice and hard work. Mentally, it just feels incredibly good to feel good about how I play golf again,” said Constantino.

TNT, RoS seek 2-0 leads

By Jeremiah Sevilla

AFTER drawing first blood in their respective series, TNT and Rain or Shine aim to sustain their winning ways in Game 2 for a commanding lead in the best-of-seven PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup semifinals on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

T he Tropang 5G battle the Meralco Bolts in the 7:30 p.m. main game after the Elasto Painters col lide with the Barangay Ginebra Kings in the 5:15 p.m. curtain-raiser.

With its injury woes now gone, TNT kept its winning streak going in the playoffs with a 94-89 victory against Meralco in the semis opener on Wednesday.

Roger Pogoy and Jordan Heading, who both recovered from injuries earlier in the

combination, along with Rey Nambatac manning the point, is expected

to continue posing serious problems for the Bolts.

“That’s really a lineup we like going to because it’s pretty hard to match up and defend that lineup,” said TNT coach Chot Reyes. “We were struggling the whole conference trying to find that combination and that balance. But remember we were never fully healthy in the eliminations.”

“I think what you’re seeing now is being able to finally put the combinations that we want together,” he added. The Luigi Trillo-mentored Meralco will still bank on its reinforcement Marvin Jones and mainstays Chris Newsome, CJ Cansino, and Cliff Hodge as it looks to avoid falling to a 0-2 hole.

Meanwhile, Rain or Shine managed to pull off a 115-111 escape act against Ginebra in their opening semis duel behind Jaylen Johnson’s PBA career-high 40 points and Jhonard Clarito’s conference-best 25 markers.

Johnson and Clarito kindled a searing 11-0 run in the dying minutes as the Elasto Painters fought from 10 points down in the fourth quarter and stole Game 1 in front of a frenzied crowd that was mostly cheering for the Kings.

Jahns’ late slip sets up wild ICTSI Caliraya finish

CAVINTI, Laguna—A brilliant Moving Day surge put Keanu Jahns in the driver’s seat, but a recurring nightmare on the final hole left the door wide open for a star-studded chasing pack.

Poised to sign for a flawless, spectacular round, the Fil-German ace holed out with a bogey on the 18th, forcing him to settle for a six-under 66 Thursday – still enough to propel him into the solo lead at 15-under 201 and within arm’s reach of defending his ICTSI Caliraya Springs Golf Championship title.

But despite grabbing the lead, Jahns’ last-hole slip has set the stage for a dramatic, high-stakes shootout for the top ₱450,000 purse of the ₱2.5 million championship at the Caliraya Springs Golf Club. With the “lift, clean, and place” rule making the course highly scoreable, no lead is safe – and the veterans behind him spotted an opportunity to capitalize.

playing with the steady, aggressive precision needed to dismantle Caliraya’s defenses. If he maintains his momentum, he has the explosive scoring ability to overtake Jahns and re-claim the crown he won in the event’s inaugural staging in 2022.

Lascuña, the two-day leader, bucked another struggling start (37) with a gritty backside 33 to fire a 70 and remain firmly in the hunt. Known as one of the tour’s most coldblooded finishers, Lascuña’s unparalleled experience in high-pressure shootouts makes him a massive threat.

Still, focus will be on Jahns, who put together a scorching start for the third consecutive day, until a sluggish back-nine performance left the door open for the chasing pack heading into the final round.

Just one stroke behind at 202 are multi-titled veterans Zanieboy Gialon and Tony Lascuña.

Gialon spiked a 66 with an ace on No. 14,

Where common sense is apparently not common

IT is logical that in the instances that an office transfers to another location, especially when the new location is several miles away from the original, transportation needs of the employees should be considered. At least until they get settled to the new environment, the new grind and all the other adjustments needed when moving to a new office. Somehow, somewhere some individuals who don’t probably have an ounce of empathy in their souls forgot or deliberately ignored this concern. Imagine telling your people that they have to commute in another region, on a daily basis, to go to work. And they need to travel the same route, the same distance and with the same concerns on their way back home. All these inconveniences could have been avoided with a little consideration, some foresight and of course, common sense. Which the apparent demigods running the office forgot.

From what our source has shared to The Designated Kit Man, there was an initial vehicle allotted for the travel needs of the employees, but apparently the vehicle was needed somewhere by someone probably

more important than the simple office workers.

The same vehicle, I was told, figured in an incident outside a major international airport in the city. In another case of lack of foresight and common sense, a sporting association is reportedly using a smaller venue to hold its daily operations instead of its much-hyped and newly-built head office. The reason, our source told us, is that it has something to do with electricity. Not because the new edifice has no power supply, but rather the big bosses are allegedly not too keen in paying hundreds of thousands of electric bills every month. Hindi po sila nagtitipid, ayaw lang magbayad ng kuryente. So again, who would be stupid enough to

Despite hitting the greens, Jahns’ momentum ground to a halt on the back nine, where he struggled to read the pace of the greens and squandered three to four realistic birdie opportunities.

assume that there are things that are for free – especially electricity – nowadays?

Even common sense is not so common lately. Entitlement, however, runs aplenty on this side of the planet.

Before I forget, another unfortunate soul had the bad luck of being at the receiving end of this controversial official’s (CO) infamous temper.

The fault of this worker? He just happened to be on the peripheral vision of the CO when he went ballistic after he saw a water leak in one of the facilities of his prized new edifice.

This is nothing new. This CO is known to bully his employees, especially drivers and workers. Now add a janitor to his dubious list.

Someone will probably ask me why the negativity? Why the blind items, why these one-sided comments?

I’ll probably answer with several reasons. One, there is no one within the confines of the offices mentioned earlier that has the balls to openly defy those responsible for these kinds of behavior. Those who tried are either fired or threatened with harm if they will not shut up.

Second, there are so many people who need help because on their own, they can’t do anything.

Third, these people don’t seem to understand that The Designated Kit Man will not write anything

bad about them if they, for a change, do the right thing for once. That they are in the position and power not because of the title, the perks, the travel junkets, the photo opportunities, and the ego, but rather for the well-being of the sport, the athletes and other stakeholders. But then again, as shown throughout their stay, there are three things that they probably won’t run out of – overhyped press releases, credit grabbing and entitlement. And lastly, I hate bullies. And believe me, I encountered so many of them whether in Maguindanao, Basilan, Jolo, Lanao del Sur, Zamboanga, San Miguel and even in Sheridan, these despicable individuals even conduct nightly Bible studies and sharing and yet do the opposite. The bullies, on the other side, are among the worst. And somehow they think no one will stand up against them, that they can silence people forever, that they can fire people who will not do their bidding, that they can control the status by hiring BFFs, relatives, close friends and of course, the most important qualification of all, yes men.

I’m sorry – but not really -- I didn’t read the memo. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

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

DTI seeks Japan’s backing for trade agreement review

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines is seeking Japan’s support to review the JapanPhilippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) and back its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP), Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said.

The proposed trade discussions may take place during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming visit to Japan, but Roque said the final agenda still depends on the president.

“We are really pushing for an update of the JPEPA, and we have raised this with them several times. We also requested Japan’s endorsement for the Philippines’ bid to join the CPTPP,” Roque said, adding that she has already discussed the matter with the Japanese ambassador to the Philippines.

The Marcos administration remains supportive of free trade agreements as part of efforts to expand market access and attract investments.

Roque, who is in China with the President for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings, scheduled meetings with several Chinese companies involved in sustainability initiatives.

On the sidelines of the APEC meetings, the Philippine delegation will also hold talks with potential investors in renewable energy and electric vehicle manufacturing as the government seeks to attract more green investments into the country.

The government is encouraging new electric vehicle manufacturers to enter the Philippine market, particularly to support small EV operators through financing programs that Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.) offers, Roque said.

The government earlier launched credit support programs for electric vehicle adoption as part of efforts to accelerate the country’s transition to cleaner transport and expand the local EV industry.

Power crisis threatens Visayas economic growth

By Alena Mae S. Flores

BUSINESS leaders in Cebu are sounding the alarm over the Visayas region’s ongoing power crisis, warning that thin electricity supplies and high energy costs threaten economic productivity and discourage foreign investment.

The Visayas grid was placed under a yellow alert on Thursday, marking the ninth time this month that high demand has strained the region’s limited power reserves. A yellow alert signifies that the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirements. While available capacity reached 2,668 megawatts, peak demand hit 2,486 MW. Long-term outages have severely crippled the grid, with 11 power plants suffering forced shutdowns this month alone. Other facilities have been offline

for years, including one since March, three since 2025, two since 2024, two since 2023 and one since 2021. About 14 plants operate at derated capacities, knocking a total of 870.2 MW offline.

The shutdown of major coal facilities, including Therma Visayas Units 1 and 2 and Panay Energy Development Corp. Unit 3, drove the latest alert alongside a 43 MW spike in forecasted demand.

Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry immediate past president and trustee Mark Anthony Ynoc urged

SEC caps exchange broker director terms at 10 years to boost governance

THE Securities and Exchange Commission

(SEC) has imposed a 10-year cumulative term limit on broker directors of exchanges to strengthen market governance and reduce conflicts of interest.

The regulatory agency issued Memorandum Circular No. 17 on Thursday, capping the tenure of broker directors at a maximum cumulative period of 10 years at the same exchange, regardless of whether the service is consecutive or intermittent.

The new rules require broker directors who have served for 5 cumulative years to undergo a 1-year cooling-off period before they can seek reelection.

The policy aligns with governance principles set by the International Organization of Securities Commissions to promote fair representation in selfregulatory organizations.

“Strong institutions require regular renewal, independent oversight, and broader representation,” SEC chairperson Francis Lim said.

“By setting reasonable term limits

for broker directors, the SEC seeks to strengthen market governance, mitigate potential conflicts of interest, level the playing field among the different categories of directors in exchanges, and align our regulatory framework with internationally recognized standards, while ensuring a fair and orderly transition,” Lim said.

Incumbent broker directors will receive a 2-year transition period to complete their current terms and stay eligible for election in the next 2 annual elections.

During this transition, the local equities exchange must execute a phased board reconstitution to improve representation, diversify expertise and strengthen minority shareholder protection. The 15-member Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) board includes a president-director, five broker-directors and nine non-broker directors. Present PSE broker-directors include Diosdado Arroyo, Eddie Gobing, Anthony Te, Wilson Sy and Ma. Vivian Yuchengco. Jenniffer B. Austria

the government to make adequate power supply a national priority.

“We have been deeply concerned about the recurring yellow alerts in the Visayas grid for quite some time now,” Ynoc said.

“These incidents reflect the need for stronger long-term energy planning, more aggressive investment in power generation, and improvements in transmission infrastructure. Reliable and affordable power is critical to sustaining economic growth and business confidence in the region,” he said.

Ynoc said that electricity bills represent a massive burden for local industry, with some factories spending as much as 40 percent of their operating costs on power alone.

“Higher power rates and recurring outages significantly affect productivity, increase the cost of consumer goods, disrupt operations, and may even damage sensitive equipment and manufacturing facilities,” Ynoc said.

2,668 MW

Available capacity in Visayas

2,486 MW

Peak demand in Visayas

14 plants

Operate at derated capacity

Barkada-approved summer plans that won’t break the bank

THESE days, not every barkada summer plan has to mean booking flights or planning a whole weekend away. In fact, the plans that usually push through are often the ones closer to home, because it’s so much easier to get everyone to say yes and actually show up. It’s also a more practical way to make the most of the season while keeping things simple, manageable, and more budget-friendly – no hassles or stress over planning. If you’re looking for activities your whole barkada can easily say yes to, here are three ideas that are worth considering this summer.

1. Rediscover your neighborhood Summer is a good time to rediscover what your neighborhood has to offer, because more often than not, there are plenty of activities nearby just waiting to be discovered. But with busy schedules, they often get overlooked. It can be as simple as checking out a nearby fitness studio or trying out movement-based activities. For something slower-paced, there are also museums and galleries to visit, or pop-up bazaars featuring local brands, crafts, and hands-on activities that offer a different kind of barkada hangout. It’s a nice way to make summer feel different from the usual without needing to go far or spend too much.

3. Set up a barkada sleepover

Why go out when you can just stay in? Sleepovers are the settings for some of the best barkada summer moments, and it’s a great way to make the most out of the season without the worries of reservations or having to travel far.

Whether

to bring - snacks, dessert, or drinks - or you can simply order in and keep things easy. Whatever it is, splitting payments is still just as seamless when done through GCash.

2. Go on a food crawl Food crawls are one of the easiest barkada plans to organize, because who doesn’t love sharing a good meal with their closest friends? They let you explore different spots in one area, try more food, and split dishes (and the bill!) so everyone gets to taste and enjoy a bit of everything. There are plenty of go-to areas around Metro Manila to do a food crawl. Binondo is home to some of the oldest Chinese restaurants and iconic merienda spots, while Maginhawa is packed with a wide range of food options for every craving. San Juan is also becoming a go-to neighborhood for new and exciting concepts, while Poblacion has enough options to keep the barkada going well into the night. For trusted restaurants and sulit finds, food creator Remy Eats regularly shares neighborhood food guides and recommendations (Watch here on Tiktok and Instagram) that are perfect for barkada food trips. But as fun as they are, settling the bill is usually where things get tricky. Luckily, with GCash, barkadas can easily settle bills with hassle-free and fast payments. If someone pays ahead for the group, splitting the bill with the barkada is just as easy when using GCash. “The best thing about food crawls is how spontaneous they can be,” says Remy. “When you’re hopping from one place to another, it helps to use GCash so everyone can send their share right away without worrying about cash or change.”

For content creator Paco (@chomppzz on Tiktok and @fpchompz on Instagram), this kind of setup captures what summer should feel like. “Barkada sleepovers are honestly one of the stories that you tell your kids in the future— no planned itinerary, no big spending, just a night with good food, company, and unexpected stories you will never forget” Make barkada

rebounds above 5,900 on Wall Street rally

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LOCAL shares rebounded Thursday to close above the 5,900 level on bargain hunting after four consecutive trading days of decline.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index ended at 5,920.70, up 27.30 points, or 0.46

percent. Conversely, the broader All Shares Index closed at 3,335.85, down 4.03 points, or 0.12 percent.

percent. Mining and oil climbed 0.57 percent, while holding firms advanced 0.41 percent. Property and financials both gained 0.20 percent. On the other hand, industrials slipped 0.61 percent.

Value turnover remained thin at P5.05 billion as many investors stayed on the sidelines amid lingering uncertainties. Foreign investors were net sellers, with outflows hitting P190.76 million.

Manila Standard TODAY

Manila Standard TODAY

“The local market rose taking cues from Wall Street’s rally overnight,” said Japhet Tantiangco, research head at Philstocks Financial Inc. “US President Donald Trump’s statement saying that the U.S. and Iran are already on the final stages of negotiations sparked hopes that a peace deal would be coming soon.”

The strengthening of the peso against the greenback also boosted investor sentiment.

Most sectors ended in positive territory, led by services, which rose 1.23

Bank of the Philippine Islands emerged as the day’s top index gainer, rising 2.76 percent to P89.50, while Monde Nissin Corp. was the main index laggard, dropping 3.66 percent to P6.84.

The peso strengthened Thursday, closing at 61.581 to the US dollar compared to 61.74 on Wednesday.

Vivant plans P67-b capex through 2030

By Alena Mae S. Flores

VIVANT Corp. plans to invest about P67 billion in its energy and water businesses through 2030, with energy capturing 90 percent of the total, or P60 billion, and the remaining P7 billion allocated for water.

Vivant chief finance and risk officer Minuel Carmela Franco said they intend to fund the capital expenditure through debt and equity.

“How we’re planning to fund it is we’re going to do debt capital raising at Vivant Energy Corp. But we’re studying the possibility of doing a follow-on offering also. But of course, we have to consider the market conditions when we do the follow-on offering,” Franco said.

The company reiterated its plans to expand its total attributable generation capacity to 1,000 megawatts from the current 471 MW.

Vivant wants at least 30 percent of that capacity to come from renewable energy sources, aligned with its 30 by 30 target (30 per cent RE in the energy portfolio by 2030).

“On the 30 percent RE, I’m quite confident we can hit that…As of now, we’re still, full steam ahead, we’re still targeting 1,000 MW,” Vivant Energy president Emil Garcia said.

Of the total planned investment, about 78 percent will go toward renewable energy projects as it moves to a more balanced portfolio across conventional and renewable energy assets to help address the country’s energy requirements.

Meanwhile, Vivant plans to spend its P7 billion allocation to grow its portfolio across the water value chain, with around 70 percent allocated for bulk water supply projects and the remaining 30 percent for water distribution operations.

“That’s primarily into expansion in the desalination space, the wastewater space as well, and developing water distribution net works in areas where we really have a presence in power. And so basically, those three segments of the water distribution, wastewa ter, and majority of that is in desalination,” Vivant Water president Jess Garcia said.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

Through these initiatives in energy and water, Vivant moves closer to its goal of becoming a major power conglomerate with a presence in other industries by 2030 and a major Philippine con glomerate by 2040.

The company added that its next phase of expansion will focus not only on growing its portfolio but also on increasing operational control and accountability over the assets it develops and manages.

“Following the strong performance delivered in 2025 and amid the challenges encountered in the first quarter of 2026, we remain firmly committed to achieving our 2030 targets,” Vivant chief executive Arlo Sarmiento said.

Manila Standard TODAY NOTICE OF LOSS

“Stabilized by our strong foundation of existing investments in power and water, I am confident that our projected P60 to P70 billion in pipeline investments over the next 5 years will allow us to continue to deliver on our mission to bring excellence to industries that improve everyday living,” Sarmiento said. The Vivant board recently approved a dividend declaration of P0.6076 per share which represents the payout from the 2025 net income, which reflects a 6 percent year on year increase.

“As Vivant continues to scale,

Notice is hereby given that SMGP BESS Power Inc. (formerly Universal Power Solutions, Inc.) (SBPI) has lost its Certificate of Registration (C.R. No. 2021- 043) duly issued by the Board of Investments (BOI).

This notice is being published for the purpose of notifying the public and complying with the requirements of the Board of Investments (BOI) relative to the SBPI’s pending transfer of registration to CREATE Act.

Rodante M. Yambao, Dorothy Yambao Cruz, Cielo Yambao Dacusin, Bernhardt Wagner, Angelo Bryan Yambao Wagner, Christian Yambao Wagner, Dominador P. Caparas, Doni Yambao Caparas, Jeff Yambao Caparas and Joan Yambao Caparas - Soley, over personal and real properties per Deed executed on April 8, 2025 before Notary Public Atty. Marcus Aurellius M. Banares per Doc. No.443, Page 90, Book No.14, Series of 2025

IN BRIEF

By Darwin G. Amojelar

TThe state pension fund’s net income rose from P16.1 billion in the same period last year, even as total payouts to government workers, pensioners and their dependents increased.

Total assets grew to P2.0 trillion as of March 31, 2026, up P32.2 billion from P1.96 trillion at the end of 2025.

Total income for the quarter reached P95.8 billion, a 43.83-percent increase over the P66.6 billion recorded in the first quarter of 2025. With these

income, rose 9.16 percent to P56.6 billion, fueled by higher social insurance contributions and increased agency remittances. Meanwhile, investment income from financial assets jumped to P27.6 billion from P1.2 billion a year ago, boosted by equity valuation gains and favorable foreign exchange movements.

Total expenses for the quarter ticked up 3.30 percent to P52.1 billion. Claims and benefits accounted for 95 percent of that total, rising 4.73 percent to P49.5 billion due to higher pension payouts. The average monthly old-age pension increased to P18,874.58 from P17,809.10 last year.

By Jenniffer

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) will resume its seasonal nonstop flights between Manila and Sapporo by November for the winter 2026 travel season, the company said Thursday.

The nonstop service to New Chitose Airport will operate three times weekly between Nov. 23, 2026, and March 26, 2027. The airline will deploy its Airbus A321neo aircraft on the route, offering business class seating, inflight entertainment, Wi-Fi connectivity and curated onboard service.

The schedule features morning departures from Manila that arrive in Sapporo by midday, paired with afternoon return flights. Company officials said the direct route eliminates the need for multiple connections, reducing travel time and allowing travelers to maximize their itineraries. Sapporo is rapidly emerging as a winter alternative to traditional holiday destinations in Japan, drawing visitors with its snowy landscapes, powder snow, culinary scene, and

The

and the

RCLX, we are building in Clark with a long-term view of operational efficiency, network expansion, and the growing role of the Philippines in regional trade and logistics,” Ang Ley said.

AirAsia PH offers free inflight meals

TO help travelers mitigate rising travel expenses, AirAsia Philippines is rolling out a series of promotional booking perks this month, featuring discounted international fares and complimentary inflight meals.

Until May 31, guests can book one-way base fares from Manila and Cebu to select international destinations for as low as ₱739 (exclusive of fees and surcharges).

The promotional travel window extends until March 27, 2027. Featured destinations include regional hotspots such as Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Da Nang, Bangkok, and Kaohsiung.

As an added incentive, passengers who book select international flights between May 18 and May 24 will receive a complimentary Uncle Chin’s Chicken Rice meal for travels scheduled from May 18 to August 31, 2026. The offer is available via the ‘Add-ons’ section on a firstcome, first-served basis.

To provide greater flexibility, the low-cost carrier is also highlighting its one-time zero change fee policy, allowing guests to reschedule flights without penalty. Under this policy, AirAsia will automatically carry over eligible add-ons, such as sports equipment, to the new flight itinerary whenever possible. Other ancillary products, including Fast Pass, Santan meals, and Xtra Carry-On, remain subject to availability on the newly selected flight.

Gov’t promotes active transport as fuel cost soars

VULNERABLE road users, including cyclists and pedestrians, now have safer, more inclusive travel options following the expansion of the government’s active transport infrastructure.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has constructed a total of 1,100 kilometers of bike lanes nationwide. The agency aims to establish 2,400 kilometers of bike lane networks across the country by 2028.

In Angeles City, Pampanga, the DOTr constructed a total of 11.1 kilometers of cycleway along McArthur Highway, from San Jacinto Rotunda to J. Valdez Street and along FilAm Friendship Highway, from Ponsettia Avenue to Don Juico Avenue.

The bike lane network and infrastructure in Angeles, Pampanga is a Class 2 cycleway delineated by pavement markings and protected by flexible bollards and rubber delineators.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said active transport is a good mobility option amid the

high oil price. He also emphasized the importance of working closely together with the LGU, adding the DOTr will coordinate with the City Government of Angeles for the deployment of traffic enforcers and the implementation of speed limit to ensure the safety of cyclists.

“We have to coordinate with LTO that really has traffic enforcers. We will coordinate with the local government, with the DPWH if we can impose like a maximum limit on those with bike lanes. That will help make our cyclists feel safer,” Lopez said.

“They really don’t look behind them when they’re cycling,” he added.

Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo Lazatin expressed gratitude to the DOTr for the expansion of active transport facilities and infrastructure in

Angeles City, adding the project will encourage more Pampangueños to bike or walk going to work, school and to other destinations.

“We thanked the DOTr and Sec. Banoy for immediately constructing these bike lanes here in Angeles. It’s not just bikers who use bike lanes, but also those who work in other areas, especially since our gasoline prices have increased, many have been

DOTr fast-tracks construction of NSCR Angeles Station

THE Department of Transportation is accelerating the construction of North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Angeles Station so that commuters can benefit immediately.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has already ordered to expedite the construction of big-ticket transport projects that will benefit commuters to speed up their travel time.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said that the right-of-way

GLOBAL ride-hailing platform inDrive, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), successfully distributed P5,000 in cash relief assistance to thousands of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) partnerdrivers during a special payout activity on May 16 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City. The initiative was mounted in response to a DSWD directive for TNVS companies to establish dedicated payout centers, ensuring faster and more organized disbursement amid ongoing fuel price hikes.

Demonstrating strong operational leadership, inDrive designed and executed an end-to-end payout system to handle the high volume of beneficiaries. The company utilized a multi-channel notification system via SMS and in-app messaging to reach verified drivers, while implementing a structured, color-coded batch system to minimize wait times. On-site, inDrive deployed a full-scale operational team alongside government representatives to manage verification and queueing, while a dedicated medical team ensured the well-being of attendees. Ahead of the event, inDrive conducted extensive groundwork by assisting drivers in updating and validating their records to ensure compliance with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which significantly reduced discrepancies on the day of the payout.

“The past few months have not been easy for the ride-hailing industry, most especially for our partner

(ROW) acquisition of the whole NSCR alignment in Angeles City is currently at 90 percent.

DOTr will work with the local government of Angeles City to accelerate resolution of ROW issues.

“Our right-of-way is now 90 percent.” So, at least you can now see that our project is progressing here. That’s why I was talking to them, the Italthai earlier, our contractor, that we need this by 2028. That’s the agreement,” according to Lopez.

drivers. As an advocate for a fairer TNVS industry, we know it is our responsibility to help our partner drivers maintain their earnings amid rising fuel costs,” inDrive Philippines country manager Sofia Guinto said.

“Through our partnership with the DSWD and the LTFRB, the cash relief assistance payout enabled us to support a significant number of our partner drivers. We hope to continue working with the government in advocating for fairer earning opportunities for our partner drivers in the long run,” Guinto added.

DSWD Undersecretary for Operations Pinky Romualdez emphasized the importance of publicprivate collaboration in delivering timely support to transport workers.

“This initiative demonstrates how government agencies and TNVS companies can work together to deliver immediate and meaningful assistance to our transport workers. We thank inDrive for organizing this large-scale payout for its partner drivers,” Romualdez said.

Beyond immediate cash relief, inDrive continues to champion structural support for its fleet. The platform maintains one of the industry’s lowest commission rates at an effective 8.92 percent, dropping to as low as 1 percent in select highdemand areas

Partial operations for the NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR) Valenzuela City-to-Malolos, Bulacan segment are targeted to begin by December 2027, followed by the Malolos-to-Clark segment in October 2028.

Once the entire 147-kilometer railway system is complete, it will slash travel time between Clark, Pampanga and Calamba, Laguna down to just two hours.

“If there were no bike

we would usually be on the

and there would be no guide for us on how to be safe. We need a very safe, reliable and convenient path for cyclists,” Roy said.

MARINA reaffirms commitment to women in maritime

THE Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), in collaboration with Women in Maritime Philippines (WIMAPHIL), reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment and gender inclusivity during the International Day for Women in Maritime Forum held on May 18 at the Manila Prince Hotel.

Carrying the theme, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” the forum gathered women leaders, maritime professionals, government representatives, and industry stakeholders to celebrate the growing contributions of women in shaping the maritime sector.

MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan spearheaded the event, underscoring the vital role of women in strengthening the maritime workforce and driving positive industry change. She highlighted MARINA’s continued support for institutional policies that promote equal opportunities, leadership development, and increased female participation in maritime professions.

The forum featured a Women Leaders Panel, where discussions centered on gender mainstreaming, inclusive workplace practices, and targeted advocacy initiatives. An oathtaking ceremony was also held, cementing the shared commitment of stakeholders toward a more inclusive and progressive industry.

During the panel, women leaders from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), shipping companies, academia, and the manning sector shared their insights. Speakers emphasized how women continue to make meaningful contributions to maritime operations, education, corporate management, security, and policy-making despite global challenges.

FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

JASPER VALDEZ,

Writer

Writer

By Angelica Villanueva

FOR actress Sahara Bernales , the emotional core of her upcoming VMX film Monay felt close to home long before cameras started rolling.

“ Pag talaga ate ang role ko sa mga palabas, sobrang nararamdaman ko yung bawat eksena. Ganyan talaga kung paano ko protektahan ang aking mga kapatid ,” she told

Role hits close to home Sahara Bernales in ‘Monay’

Manila Standard Entertainment

Directed by Christopher Novabos , Monay is part of VMX’s continuing slate of digital originals that lean into provocative, characterdriven storytelling. Novabos discussed the film’s development and introduced its lead cast, highlighting the creative vision behind the sibling-centered drama.

The actress also spoke about how her reallife responsibilities mirror her character’s struggles and deep sense of responsibility

Gazini Ganados flaunts heritage at MGI All Stars 1st Edition

IT has been seven years since Gazini Ganados was crowned Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2019 by her predecessor Catriona Gray, the last time Bb. Pilipinas held the local franchise for the Miss Universe pageant.

The half-Filipino, half-Palestinian model from Cebu competed in Miss Universe 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, earned a Top 20 spot, but did not advance to the Top 10. She did not come home empty-handed, though, as she took the award for Best National Costume for a Philippine eagle-inspired ensemble.

Now, at age 30, Ganados returns to the international pageant scene in excellent fighting form to carry the national colors, along with four other Philippine delegates, at the 1st Edition Miss Grand International (MGI) All Stars pageant, which will culminate in the finals on May 30, 2026, in Bangkok, Thailand.

Gazini, born in Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte, to a Palestinian father and Filipina mother who separated, grew up in Talisay, Cebu. She graduated in Tourism Management and received a certificate as a health care services provider from the University of San Jose-Recoletos. A member of Sparkle GMA Artist, she appeared in the TV series Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre , Sanggangdikit FR , and Slay

“A heart full of gratitude as I begin this journey. Thank you to everyone sending love, prayers, and support. This is just the beginning,” Gazini posted prior to her flight to Thailand on Saturday.

In her MGI All Stars introduction video, Gazini took pride in her Filipino-Palestinian heritage, describing herself as a “woman not divided by heritage, but empowered by it,” an indirect reference to the ongoing IsraelPalestine conflict.

stage

PH’s Anne de Mesa named Miss Tourism Worldwide 2026

PHILIPPINE bet Anne de Mesa was crowned Miss Tourism Worldwide 2026 during the grand finale held in Johor Bahru, Malaysia on Saturday. De Mesa snared the country’s second win in the pageant after Zara Carbonell won the first edition in 2018, besting 21 other candidates from around the world. Named runners-up were Kuma Ruth Ndain of Cameroon (first), Geili Meigas of Estonia (second), Milana Roothooft of Belgium (third), and Pakjira Kusolthipjaroen of Thailand (fourth).

The 27-year-old De Mesa, who also won Miss Celebrity, Best in Evening Gown, and Best in National Costume, was crowned by Miss Tourism Worldwide 2025 Joyce Tuijaerts of Benelux.

A cum laude graduate in Accountancy at the University of Santo Tomas, De Mesa was appointed Miss Tourism Worldwide Philippines 2026 by the ALV Pageant Circle, headed by Arnold Vegafria, after being named First Princess in Miss World Philippines 2026. She previously competed in Bb. Pilipinas 2022 and 2025, where she finished in the Top 12 and Top 14, respectively.

toward her siblings, explaining that much of her earnings go toward supporting their education.

“ Hindi kasi ako materialistic na tao. Nakakaipon talaga ako para makapagpadala sa mga kapatid ko ,” Sahara continued.

In Monay , Sahara stars alongside Kim Yashii in a story about the difficult relationship between two sisters. The film explores how they are connected by love, resentment, and competing desires involving their family’s bakery. Ramona is determined to keep and protect the “monayan,” while Kim Yashii’s character becomes caught in jealousy and emotional conflict that puts their sisterly bond at risk of falling apart.

Sahara also reflected on her long career with VMX. After taking a brief break for hosting work and personal rest, she admitted that returning to filming always brings a sense of adjustment, noting that each new project

requires her to reset and treat every role as a first.

Despite her experience, Sahara said she still approaches each role with pressure and care. Looking ahead, Sahara expressed hopes of doing more projects beyond VMX and entering mainstream cinema, especially action and horror roles, mentioning Robin Padilla and Nadine Lustre as artists she admires and hopes to work with in the future.

Still, Sahara was clear that she does not intend to leave her current work behind.

“ Hindi ko siya iiwan hanggang kaya pa, hanggang meron pa at hindi nawawala ang VMX , hanggang binibigyan ako ni Viva gagawin ko yung lahat ng pwede ko bang gawin ,” she said, adding that she remains grateful for the opportunities that continue to come her way.

Monay is streaming now on VMX.

and

at the

The sighting at Juan365 immediately sparked interest among fans and attendees, as both actors have long built separate careers and distinct fan bases in Philippine pop culture.

The program included a live performance, fan interactions, and a contract signing segment.

While Reid took center stage with an intimate set as part of the “Juan Year Sa Saya!” celebration, Padilla’s presence added to the buzz inside the venue.

Local jewelry brand enters global diamond market

By Nickie Wang

DIAMONDS have long been the ultimate shorthand for luxury, but the industry behind them is shifting fast as brands rethink how value is created and delivered.

Across global markets, jewelry players are becoming more assertive in securing direct access to sourcing, manufacturing, and international trade hubs, reshaping a sector once tightly controlled by a few dominant centers.

In the Philippines, local brands are no longer confined to retail alone, as seen in Filipino luxury jewelry brand Jhaena Jewels, which has expanded into the global diamond manufacturing industry with new operations in Surat, India, one of the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing hubs.

Known for its accessible luxury positioning in the Philippines, the company said the expansion strengthens its role in international diamond manufacturing and sourcing.

manufacturing operations and sourcing network, allowing it to improve craftsmanship, sourcing transparency, product quality, and long-term business growth.

Surat is considered one of the world’s leading centers for diamond cutting and polishing, with a large share of globally traded diamonds passing through the city before reaching retailers and consumers.

The expansion also broadens Jhaena Jewels’ business beyond jewelry retail and manufacturing into diamond sourcing and production.

“We are now a global diamond manufacturer of natural, mined diamonds and gemstones. Through our expansion in Surat, India, we are operating closer to where many of the world’s diamonds are cut, polished, and brought to life,” said Jhaena Jewels CEO and founder Haena Sia-Foo

The company said the move would strengthen its international

Elephant

“Luxury is different when you understand where brilliance truly begins. From source to craftsmanship, we bring our clients to the story behind every diamond,” said marketing consultant Faye Ramirez Ramirez said consumers in the luxury market are increasingly prioritizing authenticity, craftsmanship, sourcing transparency, and global credibility alongside the product itself.

As part of its expansion, the company said it is opening opportunities for wholesalers, resellers, entrepreneurs, and jewelry businesses seeking direct access to diamond sourcing and manufacturing networks.

Jhaena Jewels said it is also seeking partnerships with retailers and industry players interested in natural mined diamonds, gemstones, jewelry manufacturing, and international sourcing channels.

The company’s flagship store is located in Olongapo City, while its global offices are based in Japan and the Philippines. Its manufacturing network spans Japan, India, Hong Kong, and Thailand.

Everyday family life featured in Mother’s Day video campaign

LOCAR Gaming’s Carlo Santos marked Mother’s Day with short-form videos featuring his wife Gabby and their daughter Sunsun, offering a glimpse of family life at home. The clips show simple kitchen moments, conversations about parenting, and the small gestures that shape daily life as a mother.

In partnership with Hanabishi Appliances, the campaign, titled Everyday Moments with Mom, was created to focus on small but meaningful acts of care within families.

The first TikTok video shows Gabby and Carlo preparing two desserts for Sunsun using a Hanabishi microwave oven. While the dishes were being prepared, Carlo asked Gabby about her experiences as a mother, prompting candid responses about the challenges and stages of parenting, as well as appreciation for shared responsibilities at home.

Carlo Santos (left) and his wife, Gabby, share the simple acts of care that shape their life with their daughter Sunsun

A second video posted on Mother’s Day features the couple preparing breakfast for their daughter using a Hanabishi induction cooker. The dish was made using simple ingredients such as bread, peanut butter, eggs, cinnamon, and bananas, while a Hanabishi tower fan kept them cool in the kitchen.

During the video, the couple discussed their parenting journey from newborn to toddler stage. Carlo praised Gabby’s adjustment to motherhood, saying, “Sa sobrang ikling panahon na magprepare ka, talagang naging all-out mother ka.”

The videos also show Sunsun enjoying the meals prepared by her parents. Both clips are available on Gabby’s and Carlo’s TikTok accounts, @katgab_b and @locar.gaming.

Ong-Chua said the campaign emphasizes how motherhood is reflected in everyday gestures, from tone of voice to simple interactions with children.

Hanabishi said it aims to serve as a steady support in family homes through its appliances, which it described as tools that help make everyday routines more manageable.

in the room: Nepal’s first Cannes film takes on taboos

FILM director Abinash Bikram Shah has taken on two of Nepal’s touchiest subjects in Elephants in the Fog—the way it treats its trans women and its wild elephants.

It seems an odd combination, but the two come together in his hauntingly beautiful directorial debut at the Cannes Film Festival about the perils of not acknowledging nature, both human and animal. Shah—the first Nepali to make the festival’s official selection— is no provocateur. So soft-spoken you have to lean in to hear him, he used to work for the Nepal Tourism Board, promoting the stunning Himalayan nation.

But as he told AFP before its premiere on Wednesday, “Nepal is changing” in very big ways.

Last year, the arthritic old order was toppled by a youth revolution, with Gen-Z protesters taking to the streets with the

Jolly Roger flag from the manga One Piece

Then, in March, Nepalis elected 36-year-old rapper Balendra Shah as prime minister—the world’s youngest— by a landslide. Filmmaker Shah—no relation—said he is proud and excited for his homeland.

Nepal is among the few countries that recognize a third gender and is considered a pioneer in LGBTQ+ rights in Asia. But Shah said much of that tolerance “is just on paper,” adding that he remains unsure how his touching thriller will be received at home.

The film centers on the matriarch of a traditional transsexual household in southern Nepal, where villagers nightly try to drive away wild elephants from shrinking forests nearby.

The Kinnar community, known as Hijra or the third sex in India, has deep cultural and religious roots in Hinduism and Islam. They sing and dance, and their blessings are considered auspicious for births and weddings or for warding off evil spirits.

Gender realignment is called “emasculation” in Nepal, Shah said, but the Kinnar use what he described as a “beautiful” word for it: “Nirvana.”

Many live in tightly organized Kinnar families led by a mother figure who answers to a guru.

Shah became fascinated by their little-known lives while scrolling through TikTok during lockdown. He was drawn to the “joyful videos” they posted—singing, dancing, and joking— despite what he called the “shocking hate remarks” they received online.

He said he was pleased that the trailer for Elephants in the Fog has so far received a positive response. The film stars Kinnar activist Pushpa Thing Lama, who had never acted before.

“When she is joyful, she is so joyful,” Shah said. “But when she is quiet, she has this calm and silence you can’t take your eyes from.”

Lama attended the Cannes premiere Wednesday wearing a white sari alongside co-stars Jasmine Bishwokarma and Aliz Ghimire

Shah said he wanted to show how the Kinnar are both central to Nepalese and Indian culture and pushed to the margins.

Many Kinnar begin as sex workers after being rejected by their families, he said, before later joining Kinnar households and taking vows of chastity.

Shah spent two years building trust with the Kinnar community and villagers in southern Nepal, many of whom appear in the film as themselves. AFP

“Most Nepalese people see Kinnar just as having this ability to bless them or as prostitutes,” he said.

MAY 22, 2026

By Jasper Valdez

IN the Philippines, music is not reserved for concerts or special occasions. It follows Filipinos through ordinary days and big gatherings alike — from songs played during commutes and work breaks to karaoke sessions that stretch into the night.

That connection to music, and to sound itself, became the starting point for JBL’s 80th anniversary showcase in the country, held on May 15 at Clark Marriott Hotel in Pampanga.

Instead of presenting sound as one type of experience, JBL framed its latest products around the many ways people listen today—alone, on the move, while gaming, or during gatherings with family and friends.

For Grace Koh , general manager and vice president for Consumer Audio at HARMAN Asia Pacific, the milestone reflects JBL’s long-running focus on how people create, hear, and connect through sound.

“For 80 years, JBL has been pioneering audio technology, shaping how we create, hear, and connect through sound,” Koh said. “In the Philippines, music is more than what we hear. It is something we live together.”

The product presentation followed the same listener-first direction, beginning with JBL’s personal audio lineup for users who rely on

Tuning into the way Filipinos listen

headphones and earbuds throughout the day. The range included the Live 780NC, Live 680NC, Live Beam 4, Live Flex 4, Tune 780NC, Tune 680NC, Tune 730BT, and Tune 530BT, covering everyday

GETTING a degree takes semesters. But what if you could gain job-ready skills in just weeks?

Short, intensive microcredential courses can be completed in two to four weeks to earn a certificate and move straight into industry roles. These bite-sized programs focus on practical competencies employers seek, combining hands-on exercises with industry-relevant theory.

For busy learners, they offer a faster, more flexible path to upskilling or career switching without the time and cost of a full degree. Many providers also design microcredentials to stack toward larger credentials, creating clear pathways for continued professional growth.

This month, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) launched microcredentials — short, targeted courses that give learners practical skills and faster routes into employment. UPOU will roll out five new microcredential courses to bolster the country’s semiconductor workforce in response to rising demand for highly skilled professionals in hightech manufacturing. The offerings

uses such as work, study, travel, and entertainment.

The brand also turned to gaming through the JBL Quantum Series, including the Quantum 650 and Quantum 250. Megan Lee, Director

of Product Planning and Strategy for Consumer Audio at HARMAN Asia Pacific, said the line was designed with comfort, cleaner design, and longer use in mind.

“When we had the chance to revisit Quantum, we wanted to build a product from the ground up. We wanted to make it modular,” Lee said.

John Nieves , editor in chief of UNBOX , said the practical design stood out in the headset.

“One thing I really like is that everything important is user-replaceable. The ear cups can be taken off and put back on, and the battery is also replaceable, so you do not have to waste a perfectly good headphone if your battery dies,” Nieves said.

Filipina gamer Rojean Delos Reyes meanwhile, pointed out the importance of clear and balanced sound during gameplay.

“For us gamers, sound is really important,

especially in FPS games,” Delos Reyes said.

“The audio has to be clear and balanced so we can hear where the enemies are.”

For listeners who prefer portable speakers, JBL presented the Go 5 and Xtreme 5, designed for those who bring music to trips, outdoor hangouts, or casual get-togethers.

Karaoke and party audio were another major focus, with the showcase including the PartyBox 130, PartyBox Encore 2 Plus, PartyBox On-the-Go 2 Plus, JBL EasySing Mics, and EasySing Mic Mini. The EasySing products use AI vocal removal to lower or remove vocals from songs, turning tracks into karaoke-style backing music.

“When new songs are released, you do not need to wait for the karaoke or instrumental version,” Lee said. “You can immediately find it [the song], adjust the balance, and stream it right away.”

and accelerate entry into the growing semiconductor sector. To apply or learn more, e-mail fics@ upou.edu.ph or follow updates on the official Facebook pages of UPOU and FICS. For your random thoughts, e-mail the author at randomrepublika@ gmail.com. Guests explore JBL’s interactive listening zones, which showcase how sound fits into everyday routines and shared experiences