Manila Standard - 2026 June 13 - Saturday

PBBM: Protect truth, freedom, sovereignty

By Charles Dantes and Katrina Manubay

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday urged Filipinos to draw lessons from history and remain united in protecting the country's freedom and sovereignty amid modernday challenges.

As the country marked the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, Mr. Marcos also called on Fili-

pinos to "protect truth from distortion.”

"As we honor this day, we are reminded that freedom is not merely a

legacy we inherit but a responsibility we must uphold… Our history has taught us that it is only through unity that independence can be achieved," he said. "We must protect truth from distortion, harness technology wisely, and restore trust in a time increasingly marked by division and distrust. How we respond to these demands will shape the course of our nation and define what we pass on to future genera-

Araja

By Alena Mae S. Flores

tions," the President said. A true leader, Mr. Marcos added, is one who puts others before himself.

“True leaders are those who sacrifice their own interests for the good of the people...Let us choose the good of the nation over the interests of a few,” he added.

The President said amid modernday challenges and difficulties, Filipinos must continue choosing the Philippines. Next page

By Joel E. Zurbano and Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

acknowledged the leadership of Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian during his speech at the Independence Day rites yesterday addressing him as Senate President Pro Tempore.

Support for Gatchalian’s leadership continued to grow as Senator Panfilo Lacson said public acceptance of the acting Senate leader was evident during the Independence Day celebration at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.

“The cheering and applause this morning simply symbolized public acceptance and approval versus public disapproval and disgust. No need to mention here ‘who versus who,’” Lacson said.

Gatchalian was elected to the Senate’s top post on June 3 after

PBBM:...

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“There are many challenges to our freedom and development. These include corruption, division, and poverty. We also face global developments and threats posed by climate change and environmental concerns,’’ he said.

“To every Filipino, this is my call: Let us never grow tired of loving,

Marcos...

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Senator Francis Escudero joined the then 11-member majority to form a quorum and end the impasse in the Senate caused by the boycott of the bloc headed by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.

According to Lacson, key institutions including Malacañang, the House of Representatives, the Civil Service Commission, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines and various organizations have recognized Gatchalian as the acting leader of the Senate.

“With this, there should be no more confusion on whose leadership is to be recognized and followed,” Lacson said.

In his Independence Day message, Gatchalian said the Senate must continue its legislative work despite political tensions.

“The Senate joins the entire country in honoring the courage, sacrifices, and heroism of our ancestors who fought tirelessly to break the chains of foreign oppression,” Gatchalian said.

“Today, amid the noise of politics

Conserve...

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protect drinking water, hospitals and other essential services while utilities accelerate repairs and relief for the most vulnerable communities.

It issued the advisory, in coordination with the Water Resources Management Office and the National Water Resources Board, reviving measures used during the 2023–2024 dry spell and asking the public to adopt simple conservation habits.

Cuna pointed out that the measures are intended to be “equitable and targeted.” Households were urged to take short showers, turn off taps while brushing teeth, repair leaks promptly and, where safe, reuse greywater for flushing and outdoor cleaning.

Nonessential activities, including car washing, driveway hosing and private pool refilling, were discouraged unless required for health reasons. Local government units must publish schedules for water-truck deliveries and refill stations in areas with the greatest need, the agency said.

Utilities are also enjoined to inten-

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Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said that aside from price hikes, the DOE is deeply concerned about the potential impact on oil supply.

An industry source said that based on the movement of the Mean of Platts Singapore and forex averages as of June 08-11, diesel is forecast to have a rollback of P3.50 to P4 per liter. Gasoline is seen to increase by P0.50 to P1 per liter.

“Gasoline prices remained supported due to relatively low inventories globally. Asian gasoline balances are expected to tighten further as stocks continue to fall amid the curtailment in supply while demand remains elevated,” the source said.

He explained that diesel and other middle distillate prices declined due to easing in prompt tightness as northeast Asian producers have managed to secure alternative crude supplies.

“World oil prices traded higher earlier this week on renewed hostilities between Israel and Iran, before reversing gains after the two countries agreed to halt attacks on each other,” he said.

According to the source, prices once again rallied on heightened geopolitical tensions after the US military conducted strikes on Iranian targets in response to the shooting down of a US Apache helicopter, and on worries that supply will be severely disrupted after Iran

choosing, and fighting for the Philippines,” Mr. Marcos added.

The celebration of this year's Independence Day started at the Rizal National Monument in the City of Manila, where the President, together with the First Family, led the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies honoring Dr. Jose Rizal and the nation’s heroes whose sacrifices secured the country’s freedom.

Vice President Sara Duterte, for her part, rejected unverified re -

and the challenges that test our institutions, the true spirit of independence calls on us to rise above division and remain anchored on what truly matters: service to the Filipino people. The work of the legislature must continue,” he added.

He said the Senate under his leadership would focus on measures aimed at alleviating poverty through quality education, healthcare and employment opportunities.

“The country cannot achieve full freedom if millions of our fellow Filipinos continue to be held back by poverty," Gatchalian said.

Probe defacement of Senate website

Gatchalian also called for a thorough investigation into the defacement of the Senate’s official website, urging authorities to identify those responsible and strengthen protections against future cyberattacks.

He requested the National Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to conduct a comprehensive probe into the incident.

While emphasizing that no legis-

sify pressure management and leak repairs to reduce system losses that prevent water from reaching homes.

DENR’s advisory stressed that potable water will be prioritized for drinking, sanitation and medical facilities.

“We will focus resources where they are most needed,” Cuna said, noting that the government will publish allocation criteria and repair timetables to ensure transparency and fairness.

Beyond appeals to individual conservation, the government outlined operational steps, such as fast-tracking permits for repairs, requiring commercial establishments to submit water conservation plans, and encouraging rainwater capture for non-potable uses when rains occur.

Targeted assistance will be directed first to hospitals, clinics and lowincome neighborhoods.

Cuna said small, consistent actions by many households can reduce strain on the system and help preserve public health.

“We are asking communities to work with us. Together, we can protect the water people depend on,” he said.

announced the full closure of the Strait of Hormuz and threatened to attack any vessel that will attempt passage.

“Prices, however, eased down on expectations that peace deal is imminent after US President Trump canceled the planned strikes on Iran,” he said.

He stressed that the rapidly shifting geopolitical developments will continue to drive fluctuations in nearterm sentiments and world oil prices.

Garin acknowledged that consumers will have to brace for higher pump prices once again.

We still have to stay vigilant because many of our suppliers still source oil from the Middle East,” Garin said. “But now, the situation is better because our suppliers already know where to source supplies. Still, that means we’re not yet out of the crisis.”

The energy chief previously noted that pump prices were nearing prewar Middle East levels due to the softening of world oil prices.

“But my worry is more about supply than price,” she said. “Consumer behavior seems to have returned to the way it was before, so we have to go back to conserving.”

Garin said the DOE may have “to restrict the increases again.”

She said the DOE will review current supply contracts, noting that the Philippines’ oil suppliers are longterm partners that continue to honor their commitments.

“But if this is prolonged, I don’t know how long everybody can sustain it,” Garin said.

ports that retired military officers and other groups are calling on her to lead a People Power movement against Mr. Marcos, saying she would not support any extra-constitutional effort to remove the sitting chief executive.

Speaking in a chance interview in Davao City, Duterte said she intends to uphold the Constitution and has no plans to participate in any attempt to overthrow the administration.

“I am the constitutional succes -

lative files, databases or sensitive records were compromised, Gathalian described the intrusion as a serious violation of the institution’s integrity.

“Even though no legislative files, databases, or sensitive records were compromised — the intrusion itself is a grave violation of the integrity of our institution. We will not give in to intimidation. The work for every Filipino will continue,” he added.

The CICC said it has launched an investigation in coordination with the DICT Cybersecurity Bureau to identify those responsible for the attack.

CICC Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso said the agency remains committed to protecting the country’s cyberspace.

The Philippine National Police also pledged support for the investigation.

PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group to assess vulnerabilities that enabled the intrusion and trace the digital footprint left by the perpetrators.

“While we are relieved that no sensitive or confidential data was compromised in this defacement, an attack on a vital government institution remains

Divine...

From A1 individuals who were summoned for an investigation in connection with the twin deaths.

On the other hand, Navotas City Rep. Tobias Tiangco also seeks a congressional inquiry into the deaths of Divine Adili, 21, and Rene Baterbonia, 19.

Adili, along with co-player Rene Baterbonia, drowned during an Ateneo Blue Eagles training session in Dipaculao, Aurora.

“I want justice for my son, Chukwuemeka Divine Adili,” Elias wrote in a social media post.

“Divine, your family is deeply pained and devastated by your demise out of carelessness; you vanished like steam before our eyes. Divine, we miss you, and our tears seem endless,” the grieving father stated in his post.

Earlier this week, the Nigerian Embassy in Manila confirmed that the family has requested an autopsy before Divine’s remains are repatriated.

On June 8, authorities reported that Adili and Baterbonia went missing while swimming near the shoreline around mid-afternoon.

Their bodies were recovered approximately five meters from shore after a search lasting 30 to 40 minutes.

In response, Malacañang has called for an immediate investigation into the incident.

Nartatez said the accounts of witnesses remain vital in establishing the sequence of events that led to the

SpaceX...

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in the top 10 of Wall Street's biggest companies with a valuation of just under $1.8 trillion — ahead of Tesla, Facebook-owner Meta and Walmart.

The offering will raise more than $75 billion, easily outranking previous record-holder Saudi Aramco's $29.4 billion debut in 2019.

Options for nearly 83 million additional shares could push the total above $86 billion.

Co-founded by Musk in 2002, the rocket startup has since expanded into a major satellite operator and has also folded in Musk's artificial intelligence company — xAI — which includes the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

The conglomerate will trade under the ticker symbol "SPCX," and all eyes will be on how Wall Street absorbs the offering.

SpaceX is the first out of the gates among leading AI giants eyeing public markets, with OpenAI and Anthropic both recently filing initial documents with regulators.

As is traditional for high-profile debuts, executives were due to ring the opening bell to mark the start of the

sor. I am the next in line according to our Constitution. And I swore an oath when I assumed the office of the Vice President and it is stated there that I will preserve and defend the Constitution,” the Vice President said.

“Thus, it is not within my power to undertake extra-constitutional means to overthrow the current government. I also oppose such actions. I do not wish to usurp Bongbong Marcos’ position,” she added.

a serious breach of security,” Nartatez said. The hacking incident, discovered on June 11, involved the unauthorized modification of the Senate website allegedly by a group identifying itself as “Nullsec Philippines.”

No confidential records exposed

According to the Senate Electronic Data Processing-Management Information System Bureau, security protocols were immediately activated and an investigation launched. The bureau noted that the website primarily hosts publicly accessible documents and that no confidential records were exposed.

The group later claimed responsibility through social media, describing the attack as a protest against alleged corruption and political dynasties.

Nartatez, however, rejected such justification.

“Digital vandalism is a serious crime, not a legitimate form of protest, and the guise of ‘hacktivism’ will not shield you from the full force of the law. Ideological grievances can never justify sabotaging state infrastructure, and the PNP will aggressively track down anyone who compromises government digital systems,” he said.

tragedy.

“Ateneo is a highly-respected institution with strong support system to basketball. And we appreciate its commitment to cooperate in the entire investigation process in the interest of truth,” the PNP chief said.

“We owe the parents and the people a clear explanation of what really happened amid all the speculations that have circulated on social media,” he added.

The PNP, through the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confirmed that basketball players and coaches from Ateneo have been issued with subpoenas as part of the fact-finding investigation.

Authorities are also looking into possible violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, as part of a broader inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the team-building activity held at a beach resort.

Tiangco filed House Resolution 1112 as he pushed for a congressional hearing in aid of legislation following the deaths of Baterbonia and Adili.

As an alumnus of Ateneo de Manila University, Tiangco emphasized that the tragedy goes beyond school affiliation and demands a thorough examination of the systems responsible for ensuring the safety of young athletes.

"Whenever young lives are lost under circumstances that raise serious questions about safety and supervision, we owe it to their families and to the public to find out exactly what happened and who should be held accountable," he said.

session — in this case at New York's Times Square, home of the Nasdaq.

The IPO comes just over a year after Musk left President Donald Trump's administration, following a months-long stint leading the highly contentious "DOGE" effort to slash government spending — while simultaneously juggling his CEO roles at Tesla and SpaceX.

Musk's backing of Trump and right-wing populists in Europe — and a long list of incendiary comments on X — has seen the entrepreneur go from a broadly admired prodigy to a deeply polarizing figure.

The record IPO is nonetheless a testament to Musk's continued support among investors, with Bloomberg reporting that the offering was more than four times oversubscribed.

Demand among retail investors — for whom 20 percent of shares were reserved — was also reported to be high.

Data centers in space

The IPO is expected to mint thousands of new millionaires and several billionaires, with former and current employees — and a long list of investors — from the company's near quarter-century history looking to cash in.

The company's financials are giving some on Wall Street pause,

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A government tally released on Friday morning put the death toll from the quake at 55, but an afternoon update, citing "validation and verification of reports", reduced that figure to 46. The same update increased the number of missing by seven to 38. Meanwhile, government agencies, lawmakers and humanitarian responders sped up relief, recovery and rehabilitation efforts across Mindanao.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reported that 1,120 people were injured and 31 remain missing, although all figures remain subject to validation.

The earthquake caused widespread destruction across Regions IX, XI, XII and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), damaging 19,095 houses. Of these, 3,485 were totally destroyed, while 15,610 sustained partial damage.

Region XII recorded the highest number of damaged houses at 16,649, followed by Region XI with 2,437. A total of 292 infrastructure facilities were also affected, including 160 in Region XI and 131 in Region XII.

As of June 12, government agencies had extended P30.04 million worth of assistance to 14,252 families, representing 88.3 percent of the 16,140 families identified as needing aid. Region XI received nearly P16 million in assistance, while Region XII received more than P10.6 million.

Rescue operations continued to face challenges from adverse weather and persistent aftershocks, according to Agence France-Presse.

In hard-hit Sarangani, provincial disaster chief Rene Punzalan said many blocked roads had already been cleared, although helicopters were still being used to deliver food and water to isolated communities that remained without electricity.

“Aftershocks are still slowing us down, plus it also rained last night, so we have to stop the operation for a while,” Punzalan said, noting that heavy equipment was being used to remove large boulders blocking access routes. While search operations continued, Punzalan acknowledged that hopes of finding survivors were fading.

“Many days have passed since the earthquake, so it's going to be a miracle if any of them can be rescued alive,” he said. “Our goal is just to retrieve their bodies.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited affected areas in General Santos City on Wednesday, inspecting damaged facilities and meeting with residents. He announced that the government would allocate P100 million for the reconstruction of the city hall. Meanwhile, the Philippine Army said its humanitarian assistance and disaster response teams continued relief and recovery operations in General Santos City, Sarangani, Davao Occidental and other affected areas. Army units have cleared roads, restored access to isolated communities and distributed assistance to affected families.

In General Santos City, Army personnel supported operations led by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office while conducting humanitarian activities in the barangays of Labangal, Calumpang, Apopong and Fatima.

To address urgent water needs, a mobile water purification system was deployed at the General Santos Medical Center before being transferred to Purok Filomena in Barangay Calumpang, where it continues to provide potable water to residents. With AFP

as the valuation largely depends on Musk delivering on promises worthy of science fiction, including putting data centers in space and humans on Mars using as-yet unproven technology.

A lot also hangs on a huge expansion of SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service as well as the success of xAI, the maker of the Grok chatbot and Musk's rival to OpenAI and Anthropic that has yet to gain traction.

While SpaceX is growing fast — revenue hit $18.7 billion in 2025 — it is also losing money, producing a net loss of $4.9 billion — mainly on spending to build AI capacity.

"Our horizons are very long term. I do not want to focus on quarterly earnings," SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell told CNBC in an interview.

"What folks that invest in SpaceX, SpaceX AI, need to know is that what we're doing is very futuristic and we should be thinking about the future as well as the current order," she said. In an extraordinary prediction, SpaceX's filing claims it can pull in more than $28.5 trillion in revenue from its various markets.

A successful debut could make Musk history's first trillionaire, dwarfing other billionaires in the sheer size of his fortune. AFP

Teodoro shrugs off Beijing’s ban on his entry to HK, Macao

IN BRIEF

made the appeal after a Grade 7 student in Talisay City, Negros Occidental was found carrying drug paraphernalia and a knife inside her school on the first day of classes last June 8.

“The guidance of parents remains the first line of defense in protecting children from all forms of threats that include breaking the law. In coordination with Together school authorities and other stakeholders, let us work together to ensure their safety and welfare,” the PNP chief said.

The student was later brought to the barangay hall where she claimed she was keeping the banned items for her cousin. Vince Lopez

A NEW sanitary landfill is set to open on June 16 in Davao City after a portion of the old landfill recently collapsed, leaving one person dead, two injured and two others missing.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said the Davao City government had reported “ongoing concrete pouring at the unloading bay section and the installation of a geoliner at the new sanitary landfill, which is targeted to begin operations on June 16, 2026.”

“The DENR-EMB XI and the local government unit of Davao City continue to work hand in hand to resolve the city’s waste collection and disposal challenges. Both parties have committed to reconvene to discuss the findings and determine the next steps forward,” the DENR said in a statement. During a meeting, the EMB XI region-

By Rex Espiritu and Katrina Manubay

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday brushed off sanctions imposed by the Chinese government against him and his family, saying he would continue carrying out his duties and speaking out against what he perceived as Beijing’s deceptive actions.

In a statement, Teodoro said the sanctions were consistent with how China treats individuals who criticize its policies and actions.

“That is their right. That is truly what they do to those who speak the truth against their deception,” the Defense chief said.

Teodoro added that even Chinese citizens and people living under Beijing’s

influence experience far worse consequences.

“I will just keep doing my duty and uphold our nation in the face of the wickedness they are committing here and even in our seas,” he said.

Teodoro’s defiant statements came after China announced sanctions against him, being one of Manila’s most outspoken officials on issues involving the

West Philippine Sea. As defense secretary, Teodoro has repeatedly criticized China’s actions in disputed waters and has advocated for a rules-based international order, citing the Philippines’ rights under international law and the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijing’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. In a statement released Thursday, China’s foreign ministry said Teodoro had repeatedly made what Beijing described as “irresponsible remarks” about their country.

According to Beijing, the sanctions prohibit Teodoro, along with his wife and their child, from entering mainland China, as well as the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macao. Beijing also barred Chinese organizations and individuals from engaging in transactions, cooperation, or other activities involving Teodoro and his family.

HEALTH policy experts, development partners, and healthcare leaders underscored the need for sustainable financing, institutional resilience, and longterm policy commitment to secure the future of Universal Health Care (UHC) in the Philippines during a Health Forum held at the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital on June 11. The discussion brought together representatives from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) to examine the progress of UHC implementation and the challenges that must be addressed to ensure its sustainable success.

The discussants noted that the UHC Law has significantly expanded healthcare access for millions of Filipinos, strengthening financial protection and

bringing essential health services closer to communities. However, speakers emphasized that sustaining these gains will require responsive financing mechanisms, prudent fiscal management, and continued investments in healthcare infrastructure and workforce development. PhilHealth president Dr. Edwin Mercado highlighted hallmark reforms and improved service delivery as mandated by the UHC Law. He stressed that healthcare investments should be viewed not merely as expenditures but as investments in national development.

“This irreversible shift in our baseline of support UHC Law - immediate eligibility from the and expanded benefit packages. Now our strategies mush shift towards smarter spending through tailorfit interventions to maximize the value of every peso spent for Filipinos,“ Mercado said.

By Maricel V. Cruz

“This

senator judges and who are the public and the private prosecutors,” Luistro said.

“By impeachment trial, we’re trying to exact accountability to the public officials. This is a response to the Constitution’s call which says that public office is a public trust and that public officials must be accountable to the people at all times,” she added. The Senate is set to sit as an impeachment court in the case against Duterte, who faces four Articles of Impeachment transmitted by the House of Representatives. Luistro expressed confidence in the constitutional accountability mechanism regardless of who presides over the proceedings.

Named as potential are presiding officials were acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, Escudero, and former Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano.

“Whether it is acting SP Win Gatchalian or Senator Chiz Escudero who will be presiding the impeachment trial, in behalf of the prosecutors, we are expressing our faith and confidence to this accountability mechanism,” Luistro pointed out.

By Ram Superable, Maricel Cruz, Katrina Manubay

Pot Chavez

and

GOVERNMENT and legislative officials on Friday, June 12, took turns underscoring the national significance of Independence Day House Speaker Faustino Dy III on Friday called on Filipinos to ensure that freedom serves as foundation for shared progress and nation-building.

On the other hand, Acting Senate President Win Gatchalian said the sacrifice by Filipino ancestors “is a reminder to stay focused on what matters most: serving the Filipino people.”

For his part, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Friday reminded Filipinos that freedom is a collective duty that must be safeguarded and upheld by every citizen.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano led the minority bloc in honoring the bravery and sacrifices of historical heroes who secured the nation’s freedom.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro emphasized the importance of pursuing a foreign policy that protects Philippine sovereignty and supports Filipinos worldwide. She reaffirmed the Department of Foreign Affairs’ dedication to advancing the country’s interests in a complex global environment.

“The Senate will strive to pass laws that provide access to good education, affordable healthcare, and decent work to truly free our countrymen from poverty,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

“And as we commemorate the 128th Independence Day, this is a reminder that patriotism is not just a celebration. Rather, it is a responsibility that we must live out and continue to fight for, for the next generations,” he said.

HUMANITARIAN FLIGHT. In response to the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck southern Mindanao, the Philippine Air Force conducts humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in close coordination with partner government agencies and civilian volunteers to ensure the timely delivery of relief to affected communities. Photo shows a Black Hawk during a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) mission transporting residents from Sarangani to Cotabato for urgent medical care. PAF Facebook page

‘5.6k Pinoy sailors still stranded’

By Vito Barcelo

MORE than 5,600 Filipino seafarers remain stranded aboard hundreds of commercial and cruise vessels in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman as shipping traffic remains disrupted by security risks linked to the USIsrael-Iran conflict near the Strait of Hormuz, the Department of Migrant Workers said.

evacuated from the Persian Gulf through coordinated efforts involving dozens of commercial vessels and cruise ships.

To safeguard those still at sea, the DMW said stranded vessels are being electronically monitored to ensure adequate supplies of food, water and medicine.

Licensed manning agencies have been directed to replenish essential provisions and provide regular updates on crew welfare.

Filipino crew members deployed in the affected waters.

The DMW said they continue to coordinate with foreign governments, shipowners and industry stakeholders to facilitate possible repatriations. However, some shipowners have reportedly been reluctant to release crew members due to concerns that vessels could be left without sufficient personnel while at sea.

‘Number of child workers reduced by almost 40%’

By Vito Barcelo

GOVERNMENT efforts to protect children from exploitative labor have significantly reduced the number of child laborers in the country, from 828,000 in 2022 to 509,000 in 2024, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The decline reflects strengthened government interventions and multisector partnerships aimed at removing children from labor and ensuring they remain in school.

“As the nation commemorates Independence Day on June 12, we called on Filipinos to help secure another form of freedom—the freedom of children from labor,” Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino said. He underscored the need for collective action as the Philippines joins the global observance of the 2026 World Day Against Child Labor (WDACL), celebrated under the theme, “Red Card to Child Labor: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults.”

“The theme calls for intensified action and stronger implementation of policies and programs aimed at preventing and eliminating child labor. This includes promoting quality education, decent work opportunities, stronger laws, and enhanced protection for children and their families,” Tolentino said.

IN BRIEF

The agency reported that more than 1,100 Filipino seafarers have been safely

In a statement, the DMW said the affected Filipinos are among an estimated 20,000 international sailors trapped in the region amid heightened tensions and operational restrictions affecting maritime routes.

Antique farmers develop ‘pancit-pancitan’ noodles

A GROUP of farmers in the Municipality of Valderrama in Antique introduced the latest vegetable noodles out of peperomia pellucida, locally known as “pancit-pancitan.”

“Pancit-pancitan is abundant in our barangay that we tried to produce noodles using them as our raw material,” said Fely Roquero, president of the Lublub Fresh Vegetable Noodle-Makers Association in Barangay Lublub.

The association with 20 members is a recipient of the Sustainable Livelihood Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The training they received from the government agency enabled them to continuously innovate.

They have been producing noodles from squash, malunggay and blue ternate.

OPAPRU deploys crisis teams to assist quake-hit ex-rebels

THE Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has activated its Crisis Response Team and deployed personnel to earthquakehit areas in Mindanao to assess the condition of former rebels and their families.

Presidential Peace Adviser Mel Senen Sarmiento said Area Management Unit personnel from the agency’s Local Conflict Transformation–Field Implementation Support Office were dispatched to conduct field validation and rapid assessments in affected communities.

“We immediately activated our Crisis Response Team to reach out to the affected former rebels and their families in the affected communities,” Sarmiento said, adding that the initiative aims to ensure that former rebels, their families, and members of former rebel-led organizations receive assistance and government services during the crisis.

The OPAPRU chief said the response forms part of the government’s Transformation Program, which seeks to help former rebels rebuild their lives through access to services, livelihood opportunities, and community integration. Rex Espiritu

Some 407 4Ps child-athletes competed in Palaro 2026

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development

hailed the 407 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) child-athletes who competed at the Palarong Pambansa 2026 in Agusan del Sur.

“The DSWD family is proud of all the 4Ps child-athletes who competed in the recently concluded Palarong Pambansa 2026. Your journey to this prestigious national competition is truly a remarkable achievement. You have proven that no challenge is too great for young people who are determined to pursue their dreams – a testament to what the 4Ps stands for,” Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna of the DSWD’s Conditional Cash Transfer Group (CCTG) said.

The CCTG official said the achievements of the 4Ps child-athletes reflect the positive impact of the program’s investment in education and human capital development. Maricel Cruz

The Philippine government has also ordered all accredited man -

The government said monitoring and assistance efforts remain ongoing

For the month-long observance, the Philippines adopted the national theme, “Ikaw, Ako, Tayo: Samasamang Pagkilos para sa Batang Malaya,” highlighting the shared responsibility of government agencies, workers, employers, communities,

ETEEAP law key to expanding access to college degrees

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act is a landmark reform that recognizes work experience, professional expertise, and lifelong learning as valid pathways to earning a college degree, House Committee on Higher and Technical Education chairperson Rep. Jude Acidre said.

Acidre emphasized the need for a higher education system that is accessible, flexible, and responsive to the realities faced by Filipino learners.

“Higher education must continue to meet Filipinos where they are. Not every learner follows the same path, and not every education journey happens only inside a classroom,” Acidre said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12124, or the Expanded Ter-

tiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program Act, on March 3, 2025. The law institutionalized ETEEAP as a national alternative tertiary education pathway that allows qualified working professionals and adult learners to earn academic degrees through the recognition of prior learning, work experience, and competencies acquired through formal, nonformal, and informal learning.

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday encouraged commuters to assert their rights and report drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs) who violate transportation rules.

This follows an incident in which a driver allegedly refused to accept passengers, including LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II.

“I encourage all our countrymen to immediately report similar cases, and it applies to all public utility vehicles. That

OPINION

Stone sentinels: UNESCO Heritage Churches of Ilocos

UP IN Northern Philippines, foreign and local tourists, who have a heart for history and are looking for some escape from the congested metropolis, can find some pleasant company in the town of Paoay in Ilocos Norte and Santa Maria in Ilocos Sur, nearly 100 kilometers due south.

The Ilocos region – Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte -has its beaches, most inviting during summer, and it has its other comeons like stone churches, the first in Paoay, 470 kms from Manila, a town of musicians, and the second in Santa Maria, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Bare reference to Paoay makes us reflective, having spent part of our youth in this town of musicians, birthland of our mother who, in her younger years before teaching her sons the Metodo de Solfeo, played her violin.. In the 50s, Paoay, which had 31 barrios, later to be called barangays, had three groups of musicians -- the Majestic Band and Orchestra (which eventually became the Jolly Boys), the Rhythm Masters, and the Smart Band and Orchestra, where we had the privilege to play our b-flat trombone in each at different times.

The St. Augustine Parish Church in Paoay, completed in 1710, is a masterpiece of “Earthquake Baroque” architecture and celebrated for its massive coral stone walls, distinctive step-buttresses, and a stunning fusion of Gothic, Baroque, Chinese, and Javanese design influences.

As a profound cultural and church icon, Paoay Church is best described through its three defining pillars.

Its most striking feature is the 24 massive, stepped buttresses lining its sides and back. Designed to endure the region’s frequent seismic activities, these functional supports have given the structure a fortress-like, imposing, and uniquely pyramidal silhouette.

The church’s thick walls are crafted from coral stones and baked bricks, held together by a unique local mortar made from sand, lime, and boiled sugarcane juice.

While its overall shape is European Baroque, the church reflects the Philippines’ deep history as an ancient trading hub. Its facade exhibits Gothic influences, the gables feature Chinese elements, and the stepped wall niches are reminiscent of Javanese temples like Borobudur.

It stands as a physical testament to the ingenuity of Augustinian friar Father Antonio Estavillo and the indigenous and Chinese artisans who executed his vision.

Having stood for over three centuries, it survived major earthquakes in the

19th century and served as a vital observation post for the Katipuneros during the Philippine Revolution.

The national government, recognizing the value of the stone church, declared it a National Cultural Treasure in 1973 and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines in 1993.

—“—

The Catholic churches in Paoay and Santa Maria symbolize a unique fusion of European, Chinese, and Javanese design

Nearly 100 kiloeters south of Paoay is Santa Maria, birthplace of Ilokandia’s Poet Laureate Godofredo Reyes, president of GUMIL Filipinas from 1976 to 1989, former governor of his province and delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention.

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Santa Maria is best described as a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site that served as both a spiritual sanctuary and a fortified citadel during the Spanish colonial era.

Its unique architectural and historical significance is defined by several distinct characteristics:

Unlike most Philippine town churches situated in the central plaza, the Santa Maria Church sits atop a prominent hill and is enclosed by massive defensive walls.

It is renowned for its thick brick-andmortar masonry and enormous, prominent buttresses designed to protect the structure from frequent earthquakes.

Visitors and pilgrims ascend an imposing flight of more than 80 granite rock steps to reach the main complex, which includes the main sanctuary, the separate bell tower, and a convent.

Established as a parish in 1769, it is dedicated to Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion, whose centuries-old image serves as the focal point of the austere but majestic main altar.

We have heard it said by many that Ilokanos should take great pride in the UNESCO World heritage-listed San Agustin Church in Ilocos Norte and the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Ilocos Sur because they represent a masterclass in Filipino resilience and architectural ingenuity. Together, they symbolize a unique fusion of European, Chinese, and Javanese design.

Beyond the drug bust

By Jose Antonio Goitia

WHEN authorities seized approximately 1.4 tons of suspected shabu worth ₱9.68 billion in Alitagtag, Batangas in 2024, the operation immediately drew national headlines. The staggering scale of the recovery alone guaranteed its place in history as one of the largest drug busts in the Philippines.

Predictably, the flashing lights, the stacked crates of contraband, and the astronomical peso signs dominated the evening news. But as the cameras packed up and the public attention drifted to the next breaking story, the real work began in the shadows.

What received far less attention was what came next—and why it represents a profound shift in our nation’s approach to justice.

From Photo-Op to Conviction

A court recently convicted a Canadian national linked to that massive Batangas operation, sentencing him to life imprisonment for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. While the multi-billion-peso seizure made for a dramatic headline, it is the conviction that gives this case its true,

lasting significance.

Large drug recoveries have a way of captivating the public imagination because numbers are easy to digest. But any veteran of the legal and law enforcement systems will tell you that removing illegal drugs from circulation is merely the opening salvo.

Rules-based assertions

WE TAKE our hats off to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. who has remained unwavering in upholding the rules-based international order and resisting China’s expansionist moves in the West Philippine Sea.

The 61-year-old Teodoro has rejected Beijing’s criticisms as propaganda and views defense modernization and security alliances as vital deterrents against aggression.

China recently imposed sanctions on Teodoro, his spouse, and his adult son, barring them from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao, and prohibiting business transactions. Teodoro shrugged this off, saying it is a “badge of honor” for speaking the truth and vowed to continue carrying out his duties.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the sanctions after accusing Teodoro of making irresponsible remarks – without specifying what remarks were being referred to – that “undermines China’s legitimate interests and sabotages China-Philippines relations.”

Teodoro, like many other Philippine government officials, had been vocal in asserting the Philippines’ rights and interests over the West Philippine Sea.

Outright, the Philippines,

through the Department of Foreign Affairs, said Beijing’s sanctions against Teodoro Jr. and his family are deemed “unfriendly act that further complicates” ties between the Philippines and China.

—“—

Philippine officials will continue to speak out against China’s attempts to spread distorted narratives and bully smaller nations

“While the imposition of sanctions is China’s sovereign prerogative, the Philippines views it as an unfriendly act that further complicates the bilateral relations,” said Foreign Affairs spokesperson Analyn Ratonel in a statement Thursday. China on Thursday barred Teodoro and his immediate family

from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, and prohibited Chinese organizations and individuals from conducting business with them.

Teodoro has heavily criticized Beijing’s expansive 10-dash line claims (and previously the 9-dash line), calling them “the biggest fiction and lie.” He maintains China’s aim is to marginalize the Philippines and seize regional resources.

He consistently emphasizes that the Philippines has full sovereign rights over its 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone and asserts that the country will not subvert its Constitutional mandates just to appease foreign pressure. Teodoro advocates for broader maritime defense cooperation and has reinforced the Philippines’ ties with traditional allies like the United States, making the Philippines an emerging “hub for rulesbased order” in the maritime domain.

Following Beijing’s latest sanctions, the Department of National Defense issued a statement which we support condemning the disrespectful act to its members, saying Philippine officials will not be intimidated and will continue to speak out against China’s attempts to spread distorted narratives and bully smaller nations.

Science fiction? Musk’s lofty SpaceX goals unrealistic, skeptics say

WASHINGTON, DC - Elon Musk’s SpaceX has made awe-inspiring achievements since its founding over two decades ago and has big ideas -- colonies on Mars, orbital AI data centers, rapidly reusable rockets -- for the future.

But as SpaceX makes its recordbreaking public market debut, some experts express doubts it can reach its lofty goals, especially on its planned timeline.

“We achieve what others think is really the impossible, and we make that possible,” CFO Bret Johnsen said in a recent video.

Indeed, the company’s development of a partially reusable rocket -- which has allowed it to conduct more launches than all other providers combined -- was once thought unattainable.

“SpaceX has accomplished a great deal, that’s quite real,” Robert Zubrin, an engineer and president of the Mars Society, told AFP.

“On the other hand, Musk frequently makes claims that are not real,” he said, citing deadlines that are regularly pushed back.

Fairytale timelines

While many experts believe they will see SpaceX send humans to Mars in their lifetime, the prospect of a mass inhabited colony will take much, much longer -- if ever.

“The simple answer is that I don’t see this as realistic at all,” said Christian Bach, head of the space transportation division at Germany’s Technical University of Dresden and co-author of a critical analysis of Musk’s Mars plans.

He said that even just settling a handful of people on the Red Planet is unlikely this century due to unsolved tech-

actly as it was designed to. The operation did not terminate with a triumphant press conference or a temporary arrest; it culminated in a definitive legal judgment.

A New Paradigm in Law Enforcement

nological and biological challenges.

To make the roundtrip journey to Mars, which takes about three years, Musk and Spacex are counting on their newest rocket under development: Starship.

However, perfecting launches with Starship will not be enough, warns Scott Hubbard, a former senior NASA official. Astronauts will also need new life-sustaining systems, such as oxygen and water recyclers.

The era of beating the rap through technicalities or institutional weariness is closing —“—

The far more grueling task is building a case ironclad enough to survive the rigorous scrutiny of a courtroom.

A successful prosecution requires:

Months of meticulous investigative work

Flawless, unassailable evidence handling to preserve the chain of custody Seamless, ego-free coordination between law enforcement and prosecutors In this case, the system worked ex-

This outcome is not an accident of fate. It is the direct reflection of a growing emphasis on intelligence-driven investigations within the Philippine National Police, spearheaded by PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. Historically, the metrics of success in the drug war were often superficial— measured strictly by the volume of substances seized or the number of bodies processed. Today, we are witnessing a paradigm shift.

Operations may begin with boots on the ground in the field, but lasting results depend entirely on what happens in the halls of justice. When investigators, forensic analysts,

the thing is the schedule,” he added. New-age Napoleon?

SpaceX has other major projects on its plate -- including building a modified Starship to use as a lunar lander for NASA’s Artemis program, and developing a new satellite constellation to serve as orbital AI data centers.

While the idea of moving energyintensive AI data centers off-Earth may sound appealing, most experts remain skeptical.

“If you do conquer all the technical hurdles, there’s still the economic aspect, and it’s just not financially reasonable at this point in time,” Kathleen Curlee, a space analyst at Georgetown University, told AFP.

Some experts express doubts it can reach its lofty goals, especially on its planned timeline

“They like to portray it that they can do it on their own, they cannot,” said Hubbard. He believes NASA -- which is planning future missions to explore Mars but not to colonize it -- will have to join the project for it to become a reality.

SpaceX also faces a major hurdle, Hubbard noted, over its goal of refuelling rockets in-orbit.

The idea would be to launch several rockets, one carrying crew or cargo, and the others carrying tanks of liquid oxygen and liquid methane that would be offloaded through coupling.

That capability “is something that is absolutely crucial to their plans that has never been done before,” he said.

“They have extraordinarily good engineers...so they will solve the problem,

and prosecutors work in lockstep to ensure cases hold up under judicial review, the entire system gains credibility. This is precisely the kind of institutional follow-through that the PNP’s strategic framework, “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman,” seeks to embody. It transforms a slogan into a tangible reality that citizens can feel.

The True Measure of Justice

The public naturally remembers the sheer size of a drug haul. What remains invisible to the untrained eye is the long, painstaking, and often frustrating process that follows the arrest. Yet, that invisible process is where the rule of law is ultimately tested.

For syndicates and international actors involved in illegal drug trafficking, this conviction sends an unmistakable, chilling message: in the Philippines, an arrest is no longer the final chapter.

Zubrin was more blunt: “This AI data centers in space thing is fiction,” he said.

“If you owned a company that could build ocean ships better than anyone else, you would say the place to do AI is in the middle of the ocean,” he quipped.

Thanks to the unprecedented influx of cash from SpaceX’s IPO, the company will nonetheless have plenty of resources to devote to the project and others.

While flying high for the moment, SpaceX could still face unexpected turbulence -- as evidenced by competitor Blue Origin’s recent launchpad megaexplosion.

Zubrin linked Musk’s potential for failure to French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s calamitous campaign in Russia.

If he were to fail, Zubrin said, it’d be because “he had succeeded in everything he had done before, and so no one could tell him that he was wrong.” AFP

The era of beating the rap through technicalities or institutional weariness is closing. For law enforcement, this victory serves as a definitive case study. It proves that the ultimate benchmark of a successful operation is not the weight of the contraband on a scale, but whether the perpetrators are held legally accountable.

In the final analysis, the most important figure in the Alitagtag case is not ₱9.68 billion. The only number that truly matters is one—the single, irreversible conviction that proves institutions can, and will, deliver justice.

(The writer, Chairman Emeritus of Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya, People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms, Liga Independencia Pilipinas, and the Filipinos Do Not Yield Movement, holds Juris Doctor, PhD, MNSA, MPA, and MBA degrees.)

Tehran: No final decision on deal

WASHINGTON, DC – Tehran said Friday it had not reached a final decision on a deal to end the Middle East war, despite US President Donald Trump claiming an agreement could be signed in days and cancelling threatened strikes on Iran.

Trump’s statements fueled a stock market rally and tanked oil prices, again spurring hopes a resolution was nearing in the war triggered by US-Israeli strikes in February.

Claiming that talks with Iran had been “brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved,” Trump said he had “cancelled the scheduled strikes and

bombings against Iran this evening.”

“Time and place of the signing to be announced shortly,” he added.

Trump said the finer points of the arrangement had been approved by the United States and its allies in the region, including Israel, with which Washington jointly launched the war in February.

However, Iran’s foreign ministry

spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran “had not reached a final conclusion on the agreement”.

He added that “most of the text of the agreement was finalized, but the problem began when the US side made new demands and changed its positions.”

The Tasnim news agency noted that Trump had announced a deal was imminent 38 times in the previous two months.

“Until Iran announces the matter of a potential understanding, any news from Trump on this subject should be regarded the same as his previous messaging,” it noted.

Later Trump doubled down, telling reporters “I understand the answer is yes,”

when asked if Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei had approved the deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the Israeli leader spoke to Trump, who vowed any memorandum of understanding would include the removal of Tehran’s enriched nuclear material as well as dismantling of missile infrastructure. The war -- which began February 28 with a wave of US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei -- paused under an April truce. But efforts to hammer out a permanent end to the fighting appeared stalled. AFP

Thai princess dies aged 47 after 3 years in hospital

BANGKOK – Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the king’s eldest daughter, has died aged 47, the royal palace announced Friday, more than three years after she was hospitalised following a sudden illness.

She was suffering from an abdominal infection and “her condition continued to worsen”, the Bureau of the Royal Household said in a statement, until she “passed away peacefully” on Thursday evening.

She will lie in state at the Grand Palace in Bangkok and her funeral will be held “with the highest honours according to royal tradition”, it added.

Known in Thailand as “Princess Bha”, the only child from King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s first marriage had been in hospital since falling ill suddenly in December 2022.

The Bureau of the Royal Household said in May that her health condition had deteriorated and she was relying on medical devices to support her lung and kidney functions, as well as medication.

Bajrakitiyabha was the only child of King Vajiralongkorn’s marriage to Princess Soamsawali.

A trained prosecutor and diplomat, Bajrakitiyabha was educated in Britain, Thailand and the United States, earning a law degree from Cornell University, and serving for a time as Thailand’s ambassador to Austria.

During a 2012 visit to the US law school, the princess remarked about her professional background to a campus audience: “I ask myself now, what am I exactly? A prosecutor? A criminal lawyer? A diplomat? The answer is everything all together. I say I am a hybrid,” according to the Cornell Chronicle. AFP

S. Korea’s

ex-president gets 30 years over drones

SEOUL – A South Korean court sentenced ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol to 30 years in prison on Friday for sending military drones into North Korea, saying he planned the action as pretext for his disastrous martial law declaration in 2024.

The drone flights two months before Yoon suspended civilian rule, had sparked anger in Pyongyang, which accused the South of dropping propaganda leaflets as well.

Judges said Yoon intended to provoke Pyongyang “into carrying out armed or equivalent acts against South Korea’s

military of people”, according to a summary of their ruling seen by AFP.

Yoon planned to “heighten inter-Korean military tensions and manufacture a national crisis” so his martial law could have been justified, they added.

The former president was given 30 years in jail over the drone incursion, a spokesperson for the Seoul Central District Court told AFP Friday.

Yoon is in detention while he appeals a life sentence for leading an insurrection with his martial law declaration.

He insists that he declared martial law “solely for the sake of the nation”.

His defence has also denied the charge over the drones, arguing that operation was in response to North Korea sending balloons carrying trash across the border that year.

On Friday, the court’s judges said the 2024 drone operation “entailed the use of South Korea’s military capabilities for private purposes”.

The judges added that powers vested in the president, including supreme command of the armed forces and the authority to declare martial law, must be exercised to protect the nation’s survival and security. AFAP

Antarctic Peninsula sees record high 15.4 Celsius, ice melting

BUENOS AIRES – Temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula have reached a record-breaking high of 15.4C for June, and ice is melting at abnormal rates during the current winter, climate scientists told AFP on Thursday. Esperanza Base, an Argentine research station located in the north of the peninsula, recorded the unprecedented figure on June 6. The previous highest temperature on record for that month -- 13.3C -- dates back to 1998. The current heat also significantly exceeds Esperanza’s June av-

Families of 260 in Air India crash waiting for answers

AHMEDABAD, India – Families of those killed in last year’s Air India plane crash gathered at the site on Friday to mark the anniversary of the disaster, still awaiting answers about its cause.

On June 12, 2025, a Boeing 787 crashed into a medical college shortly after take-off in India’s western city of Ahmedabad, killing 260 people in the deadliest air disaster for a decade. Indian authorities are expected to issue an interim report in the coming days, a source of frustration to the victims’ relatives, who had been expecting a final disclosure.

Suresh Patni, a driver, came to the site where the plane exploded in a ball of flame, engulfing his teenage son Akash at his family’s tea stall.

“We are here today only to remember him on his first death anniversary,” Patni told AFP.

“He was a good student and could have done really well for himself.” Patni commemorated Akash with a framed photograph and a life-size cutout, decorated with flowers and surrounded by scattered rose petals and lit lamps. The crash killed 241 people on board the plane and 19 people on the ground. Fragments of bags, clothes, and a melted shoe lie half-buried in the charred earth at the site, alongside dead trees with burned trunks.

“It pains us when we hear an aeroplane flying overhead,” Patni said, adding that their home was near the flight path of the airport in Ahmedabad, the main city in the state of Gujarat.

“Our house is still at the same location,” he said. “But we don’t feel like staying here... we are reminded of the same faces and memories.” AFP

Crime reporter shot dead in Mexico

MEXICO CITY – A Mexican crime reporter was shot dead early Thursday (Friday, Manila time), the newspaper that employed him in the eastern state of Veracruz reported. The coastal region is plagued by drug violence and is considered a particularly high-risk region for journalists.

Luis Angel Lopez Valdez had already received threats due to his reporting, and local authorities had taken measures to protect him, the Vanguardia newspaper said on social media.

“Lopez Valdez was killed early Thursday morning in (the city of) Poza Rica, after being intercepted by armed men while driving,” an article published on its website stated.

The publication called for “justice” so that the reporter’s death “does not go unpunished.”

Mexico is one of the most dangerous countries in the world to practice journalism, according to media watchdog Reporters Without Borders. AFP

Petro says US stopped him from Mamdami meet

BOGOTA – Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused the United States of trampling his freedom by preventing him from meeting New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a fellow critic of US President Donald Trump.

The Washington Post reported Wednesday that Petro was scheduled to meet with Mamdani while in New York for meetings at the United Nations.

But Bogota canceled the encounter after US officials warned it would violate the visa ban imposed on Petro last year during a row with Trump, anonymous sources told the Post. Petro can currently only enter the United States with a diplomatic visa for official business only.

He said on Thursday that he was never informed that he would face restrictions on his movements. AFP

US-Canada bridge opening delayed

MONTREAL – The opening of a new bridge connecting Canada and the United States that President Donald Trump previously criticized has been delayed at the last minute over “unresolved issues,” officials said Thursday (Friday Manila time). Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who said on Tuesday that the $4.7-billion Gordie Howe Bridge would open this week, told reporters that the ceremony had been delayed “at the request of the United States.”

erage of -6.2C. Such a figure is “very unusual for this time of year,” Jose Luis Stella, a climatologist at Argentina’s National Meteorological Service, told AFP. Argentine bases Marambio and San Martin also recorded unequalled temperatures between June 5 and 6. Marambio recorded 11.8C, surpassing a previous high of 9.2C and its June average of -10.7C. San Martin meanwhile saw 9.4C compared to its previous 7.8C record and June average of -5.6C. AFP

He said the two governments were going “to work through some issues that have come up,” without specifying, but that it would only be a “question of a few weeks.”

“There is no great drama here,” he said, dismissing speculation that tensions with US President Donald Trump had played a role. In February, Trump threatened to fully block the bridge -- which connects the province of Ontario with the northern US state of Michigan -- insisting that the United States had been treated unfairly in its construction and that it should be “at least half” US-owned. AFP

MEXICO CITY

—Mexico beat

South Africa 2-0 in a drama-filled opening match of the World Cup at the Estadio Azteca Thursday, kicking off the biggest ever edition of the global football extravaganza.

Julian Quinones scored the opening goal of the tournament after nine minutes and 35-year-old striker Raul Jimenez headed in Mexico’s second goal at the Azteca, which became the first stadium in the world to host games at three World Cups.

Three players were sent off -- two from South Africa and one from Mexico -- in front of a capacity crowd of 80,000 spectators.

South Africa had Sphephelo Sithole dismissed for denying a goalscoring opportunity before Themba Zwane was shown a red card for a slap. Mexico’s Cesar Montes was sent off late in the game, for a foul.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre revealed his players had overcome

Mexico, Korea win World Cup openers

severe first-day nerves.

“When you’re starting out the World Cup, of course your legs will shake,” Aguirre said. “Never in 25 years had anyone had any cramps but three of them had cramps today.

“We were in awe when we saw the stadium and they got a little bit of stage fright. But we never suffered.”

Sprawling tournament

Mexico’s victory launched a 48-team tournament also hosted by the United States and Canada that will last nearly six weeks, culminating in the final in New Jersey on July 19.

Before kickoff, Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy performed “Dai Dai”, the official song of the tournament and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli rounded off the opening ceremony.

There was a festive atmosphere inside the stadium, but outside dozens

of protesters clashed with police.

Groups of teachers, relatives of Mexicans who have gone missing, and student activists gathered outside the stadium.

Some protesters broke through barriers and traded blows with police officers guarding the stadium’s perimeter moments after Mexico scored their opening goal.

Tens of thousands of fans crammed into a fan zone in central Mexico City to watch the game, which was also enthusiastically followed by a large crowd of fans from California’s Mexican community on giant screens at the Coliseum in Los Angeles.

Korean joy

South Korea got their World Cup campaign off to a winning start by beating the Czech Republic 2-1 in the opening day’s second game.

Until the 80th-minute mark, it seemed

that the Czechs would punish the Koreans’ wastefulness in front of goal, but substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu notched the decisive goal in a Guadalajara stadium that was far from full.

South Korea face Mexico in Guadalajara on June 18 in their next Group A fixture while the Czechs play the South Africans in Atlanta on the same day.

The start of the action on the pitch will have come as a welcome relief to football’s world governing body FIFA, which has faced stinging criticism over the eye-watering cost of tickets.

In addition, Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown has seen a top referee, Iranian team officials and fans refused entry to the United States.

On the eve of the tournament, FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the organization and brushed off criticism over visa issues. AFP

From cage fights to the White House, UFC marches into mainstream

FALLS CHURCH—As workers put final touches to a massive arena for Sunday’s “cage fight” on the White House South Lawn, a few miles away, a professional pianist is learning how to choke someone unconscious.

Across the same mat, an immunologistby-day is teaching students how to pin a struggling opponent.

They represent the grassroots of a US martial arts phenomenon that has brought the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) from what was once derided as “human cockfighting” to the cultural mainstream -- and now the White House.

“The rise of the UFC has been a stunning thing to watch,” said UFC fighter Ryan Hall, owner and head trainer at Fifty/50 Martial Arts Academy, where the men were training.

“A UFC event on the White House lawn -- tell me that 10 years ago and I’d laugh at you!” he told AFP.

The fighters performing in front of President Donald Trump will blend punching, kicking, grappling, choking and joint locks in contests that frequently leave the mats streaked in blood.

Despite -- or because of -- the

extreme violence, UFC fights have graduated from obscure, pay-per-view TV spectacles in the 1990s to billiondollar broadcast deals.

But for fans like immunologist Josh Terao, 30, that fighting culture is

integral to life on and off the mat.

“I was never a great student growing up, but I found martial arts really gave me the drive to persevere and do hard things,” Terao said.

Proof of concept: he’s a black belt in

judo and jiujitsu -- and also working on

a PhD.

Likewise, soft-spoken pianist John Chen, 32, says martial arts have helped him calm nerves before big concerts, including at the prestigious Kennedy Center.

“I watched the UFCs and stuff, and I thought it was really cool, and so... I decided to try jujitsu,” he said. “As tacky as it sounds, it gives me more confidence in life.”

‘Human cockfighting’

The UFC began with a fight in Denver in November 1993.

The event “was so low-profile that neither the Denver Post nor Rocky Mountain News even bothered to send a reporter,” noted Brian Trembath in a Denver Public Library blog.

One fighter broke an arm, another had to be given supplemental oxygen, and a sumo wrestler had two teeth knocked out -- all on television.

Brazilian jiujitsu master Royce Gracie won, but the real winners were the event’s producers, who convinced some 86,000 people, according to data on industry site Tapology, to fork over $14.95 (about $34 today) to watch the event on pay-per-view. AFP

More than a race: How Palawan Group, JCI Manila champion mental health

DEMONSTRATING a shared vision for health, wellness, and community spirit, the Palawan Group of Companies, the country’s trusted leader in financial services, recently supported JCI Manila’s highly anticipated Colorfest Carnival Run 2026 held on May 31, 2026, at the SM MOA Concert Grounds. The event drew over 8,000 enthusiastic runners, families, and fitness advocates for an energetic morning filled with vibrant colors, meaningful camaraderie, and a shared commitment to mental health awareness.

Organized by JCI Manila, the Colorfest Carnival Run 2026 successfully fused the excitement of a fitness fun run with the whimsical charm of a carnival.

Participants of all ages navigated routes splashed with vivid, eco-friendly color powders while enjoying carnival-themed activations, games, and entertainment booths throughout the venue.

“JCI Manila believes advocacy becomes more meaningful when

people actively participate rather than simply observe. Through events like this, individuals can contribute to a larger movement while demonstrating solidarity with those facing mental health challenges,” said Edison Ke, President of JCI Manila.

As the event’s major partner, the Palawan Group of Companies reinforced its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote community well-being and meaningful social impact.

“Palawan Group hopes to help build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities by supporting initiatives that address issues affecting Filipinos’ well-being. Our collaboration with JCI Manila reflects our ongoing mission to support initiatives that uplift the well-being of Filipino families. Seeing the community come together in such a joyful, active celebration of health is truly inspiring,” said Angela Villanueva, CSR Manager of the Palawan Group of Companies. “

Young stars take spotlight at Mayor’s Cup in Sta. Rosa

THE future of Philippine tennis takes center stage at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna as a huge field of young netters gather for the highly anticipated Mayor’s Cup Age-Group Championships. More than just a two-week showcase of elite junior tennis, the tournament offers a premier platform for the country’s youth to trade screen time for intense, high-stakes competition. To accommodate the big number of entries from the NCR-Luzon region, organizers have split the tournament. The girls’ division will showcase their talent and grit in the opening week, clearing the court for the boys to take over the following week. The premier 18-and-under girls’ division promises explosive action, headlined by top seeds Claire Casilier, Vania Parawan, Cristina Reyes and Jana Bermejo. Looking to disrupt the status quo and claim crucial Philta and Universal Tennis ranking points are hungry contenders Agatha Asistio, Jared Carbonero, Ashley Garcia and Sofia Demadara. Hosted and sponsored by Sta. Rosa Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Vice Mayor Arnold Arcillas, the event is a vital leg of the year-long nationwide circuit spearheaded by Palawan Pawnshop president and CEO Bobby Castro. The circuit remains a cornerstone of youth sports development in the country, dedicated to providing a competitive venue for children and discovering grassroots talent to groom for future national pools. Meanwhile, Lilith Rufino looks to carry the momentum of her recent commanding victory into the 16-and-U field. But it won’t be an easy ride as she faces a stacked roster that includes Parawan, Michaela Suarez, Xyril Solis, Bermejo, Claire Alcala, Leanne Barrido and Ella Paglalunan. In the 14-and-U division, which swung into action on Friday, Ella Marie Paglalunan looms as the player to beat. She braces for a challenging week against a formidable pack featuring Barrido,

and

VAL Chauca quickly proved his worth for the Quezon City Black Bulls Thursday night. The Filipino-Peruvian recruit knocked in a triple with 6.3 seconds left to lift Black Bull past the Basilan Steel,

assists and 4 rebounds to capture the SportsPlus best player honors over Jake Agoncillo, who carded 10 points and 4 rebounds in the tight game that saw neither team lead in double figures. Trailing, 61-70, the Black Bulls unleashed a 17-6 run, capped by a Wilson triple, to seize control, 78-76, with 3 minutes and 37 seconds left. Basilan, still searching for cohesion with the inclusion of five players, skidded to 5-7.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Kazakhstan’s Zhanna Syroyeshkina, Yuliya Formenko and Tatyana Yatskiv celebrate their win over Vietnam.

Roman Prospero

PH team bets Roda, Gobotia retain steeplechase crowns

By Jeremiah Sevilla

CAPAS, Tarlac—Seeking to make an impression for 2026 Asian Games inclusion, national team members Jessa Mae Roda and Junel Gobotia defended their respective titles in the 3,000-meter steeplechase events of the ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships 2026 on Friday at the New Clark City Stadium here.

Roda, bannering the Spectrum Runners, kept pace with national teammate Edna Magtubo, then unleashed a decisive surge in the final lap to chalk a personal-best 10 minutes and 36.57 seconds and snag her third straight gold medal in the premier trackfest presented by the Philippine Sports Commission. Magtubo, also a varsity of Far Eastern University, clocked in 10:41.45 to take the silver medal while another FEU trackster in Nicole Kurt Anne

PATAFA backs

THE Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) has thrown its full support behind national pole vault star Ernest John “EJ” Obiena after he decided to relocate his training camp from Formia, Italy, to Athens, Greece, as part of his preparations for the 2026 Asian Games and ultimately the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

PATAFA secretary-general Jasper Tanhueco said the two-time Olympian promptly informed the federation of his move, adding that president Terry Capistrano remains in constant communication with the Filipino star.

“We’re one hundred percent supporting EJ,” Tanhueco told the Manila Standard. “We’re in communication, especially our president; they’ve also been talking.” Obiena reportedly transferred to Athens to train in a more competitive environment alongside several worldclass pole vaulters such as Greek standout Emmanouil Karalis.

He is also reportedly working now with Polish coach Marcin Szczepanski, who helped Karalis seize the bronze medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics and rise to No. 2 in the world rankings.

Obiena started his training in Formia in 2014 under the guidance of Ukrainian coach Vitaliy Petrov. He has since dominated the Asian and Southeast Asian levels, capturing an Asian Games gold medal, three Asian Championships titles, an Asian Indoor Championships crown, and four Southeast Asian Games golds. However, a gold medal in major world tournaments remained elusive for the 30-year-old pole vaulter. He had a silver in the 2023 World Championships in Budapest and a bronze in 2022 in Eugene while missing out on the podium in his both Olympic stints so far.

Tanhueco said PATAFA has been assisting Obiena with his transfer, hoping that the new environment in Greece will sharpen his competitiveness. Jeremiah Sevilla

Kazakhstan boosts AVC Cup bid with win vs. Vietnam

CITY OF CANDON — Extending its streak of impressive performances, Kazakhstan delivered its biggest statement yet in the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Volleyball Cup.

Kristina Belova and Yuliya Fomenko came through with crucial points down the stretch as Kazakhstan ended its long run of futility against Vietnam with a thrilling 18-25, 25-19, 23-25, 2522, 15-13 victory on Friday at the Candon City Arena.

Belova and Fomenko combined for nine points, eight from attacks, in the tense fifth set, as the Kazakhs finished Pool B play unbeaten. Kazakhstan faces the No. 2 team from Pool A, while Vietnam (41) takes on the pool winner. South Korea and Chinese Taipei were set to battle for the top spot in Pool A.

It was a huge breakthrough for Kazakhstan, which lost twice to Vietnam in 2024, including the gold-medal match in the AVC Women’s Challenge Cup in Manila, and again bowed to the Tran Thi Than Thuy-led squad in the semifinals of the 2025 AVC Nations Cup in Hanoi.

Kazakhstan also ended Vietnam’s streak of 23 consecutive victories dating to 2023.

Diloy crossed the line in 11:27.00 for the bronze.

The 2025 Southeast Asian Games bronze finisher Roda boosted her bid to enter the national team pool for the Asian Games in Japan later this year after posting a huge improvement from her 11:18.86 performance in the New Taipei City Athletics Open last week.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako kay Lord kasi hindi ko talaga in-expect ‘yong time ko na ‘to dahil sa kondisyon ng katawan ko. Hindi ko inakala na

By Randy M. Caluag

THE Philippines clinched two podium finishes in Olympic Trap at the recent 48th Southeast Asia Shooting Association (SEASA) Championships in Taoyuan, Chinese Taipei, with Catherine Levanza securing a silver medal in the women’s event and veteran marksman Jethro Dionisio taking bronze in the men’s division.

Levanza delivered a steady performance to finish second in a tightly contested women’s field, while Dionisio, the team captain, added to the country’s medal haul with a third-place finish in the men’s competition.

The results came after challenging conditions that included rain delays, fluctuating heat and humidity over the first two days of competition, test-

Jessa Mae Roda celebrates after ruling the women’s 3,000-meter steeplechase. PSC-PATAFA

“Itong time niya (Roda) sa National Open, sa palagay ko hindi na magaalangan ang PATAFA na ipadala siya sa Asian Games,” said national team coach and SEA Games multi-medalist Eduardo “Vertek” Buenavista.

maaabot ko ‘to,” said the 23-year-old native of Lopez, Quezon, who also plucked a gold medal in the 4x400meter relay race.

For his part, 2025 SEAG bronze winner Gobotia, also repping the Spectrum Runners this time, snared a second consecutive gold and sixth overall after tallying 9:08.35 to beat club squadmates Stephine Delariarte (9:10.35) and Noli Torre (9:19.63).

Although he surpassed his silverwinning time of 9:15.39 in the Taiwan Open, the 28-year-old steeplechaser was not satisfied with his performance as he fell short of meeting his 8:55 goal to strengthen his chance of securing an Asian Games call-up.

“Kailangan ko pang i-improve

‘yong time ko kasi ‘yon po ang pinapa-target sa ’kin. Kaya kumbaga para sa’kin, more hard training pa talaga,” said Gobotia.

“We had lost against Vietnam and this win was really important for us. We prepared for this and I think we did a great job,” Belova, a returning player from the 2024 silver medal squad, said.

Belova put up 21 points on 19 attacks and two blocks as Kazakhstan made it five wins in as many matches in the tournament presented by the Philippine Sports Commission and the City of Candon headed by Mayor Eric D. Singson.

Zhanna Syroyeshkina also scored 21, with 15 attack points and six aces, while Tatyana Yatskiv delivered 20 points on 17 attacks, two blocks and an ace.

Fomenko, a veteran of Kazakhstan’s previous two campaigns, had 13 points on nine attacks, three blocks and an ace.

Vietnam star hitter T4 was her usual dominant self, finishing with 25 points, all on attacks, but only four of those came in the deciding set.

PH trap shooters clinch podium finishes at SEA tourney

ing the endurance and focus of shooters from across the region.

The Philippine contingent, composed of Levanza, Dionisio, the father-and-son tandem of Teddy and Antonio Joseph Javines, and Valerie Levanza, is competing against some of Southeast Asia’s top shooting talents.

Antonio Joseph Javines narrowly missed a spot in the final after falling short in a shoot-off, underscoring the depth and competitiveness of the field.

Philippine National Shooting Association secretary general Iryne Garcia was also present in Taoyuan to support the team.

The SEASA Championships serve as a key regional competition for shooters aiming to sharpen their form ahead of major international events.

Spurs will ‘keep swinging’ with Knicks on brink of NBA title

SAN ANTONIO—Still hurting after the worst collapse in NBA Finals history, the San Antonio Spurs vow the New York Knicks will not win their first title in 53 years without a fight.

The Knicks rallied from 29 points down to edge the Spurs 107-106 on Wednesday and seize a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series with game five on Saturday in San Antonio.

“I feel like we’re going to go out next game with a sense of fire,” Spurs guard Dylan Harper said.

“If we’re going to lose, we’re not going out like that. We’re going to put up a fight. We’re going to keep swinging.”

After allowing the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history, losing on an OG Anunoby tipin with 1.2 seconds remaining, the Spurs must regroup quickly.

“It’s a tough loss. It’s going to take us a minute to get over it,” Spurs guard Stephon Castle said.

“But we still have belief in each other and confidence we’re going to win the next game.”

Spurs forward Keldon Johnson still hurts but has confidence his team can win three in a row to swipe the crown.

“I think it hurts everybody,” he said.

“We put a lot into it. As much as it hurts, we’re still playing. I feel like we have a special group. We’re back at it and we believe we can get it done.”

The Spurs rallied from 3-2 down to oust 2025 champion Oklahoma City in the Western

Conference final.

“Backs against the wall. We’ve answered the call every time. This is no different for us,” Harper said. “We’re all going to bounce back. We’re going to show the world what we’re made of.

“It’s no time to complain, no time to point fingers. It’s time for us to step up. If we believe we’re who we think we are, then it’s going to show.” Knicks scoring leader Jalen Brunson, however, is resolute that even one win shy of an epic title, his team can’t let down one bit.

“There’s nothing to celebrate. It’s not over yet, not even close,” Brunson said. “The most important thing for me is just focusing on what we’ve got to do to win game five.

“We have a lot to learn from and a lot to get better in order to do the things we said we want to do.”

Spurs’ 7-foot-4 (2.24m) Frenchman Victor Wembanyama faces a one-game suspension if he is whistled for another flagrant foul.

“Of course, I’m going to be more careful,” Wembanyama said. “But it’s not going to change much.” AFP

AIRPORT PASSENGERS.

3.7% 5.6%

GDP growth forecast for 2026

World Bank slashes PH growth forecast to 3.7%

TGDP growth forecast for 2027

5.6%

GDP growth forecast for 2028

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Philippines’ outstanding external debt slipped 0.2 percent to $147.35 billion in the first quarter of 2026 from $147.65 billion in the previous quarter on lower non-resident holdings of domestic debt securities, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.

Despite the quarter-on-quarter decline, the external debt total was 0.42 percent higher than the $146.74 billion recorded a year earlier, reflecting new government and private sector borrowings to finance development priorities and support trade and business activity. BSP data showed the country’s key external debt indicators remained sound, while liquidity conditions strengthened during the quarter.

“The slight quarter-on-quarter decline in external debt was driven by lower non-resident holdings of Philippine debt securities, reflecting more cautious investor sentiment and tighter financing conditions for emerging markets during the quarter,” the BSP said.

External debt as a share of gross domestic product improved to 30 percent from 30.3 percent at the end of December 2025 despite slower economic growth during the period.

Short-term external debt based on remaining maturity also fell 4.85 percent to $25.50 billion from $26.80 billion.

Gross international reserves stood at $106.64 billion as of endMarch 2026, enough to cover about 4.18 times the country’s short-term external debt obligations. The BSP said the reserve level indicated a robust adequacy position relative to other emerging market economies. Meanwhile, the debt service ratio rose to 9.5 percent from 8.5 percent a year earlier due to higher principal payments, but remained at a moderate level.

HE World Bank cut its 2026 gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for the Philippines to 3.7 percent from its January estimate of 5.4 percent, as conflict in the Middle East slows global economic expansion to its lowest rate since the COVID-19 pandemic.

improve to 2.8 percent in 2027. Closure of the Strait of Hormuz severely disrupted energy markets, pushing projected Brent crude oil prices to an average of $94 a barrel in 2026, a 36 percent increase from 2025 levels.

The Middle East conflict will slow global growth to 2.5 percent in 2026 from 2.9 percent in 2025, amid higher energy prices, steeper inflation and increased borrowing costs. The World Bank downgraded growth forecasts for two-thirds of economies relative to January, though global growth should

The latest Global Economic Prospects report showed the Washington-based lender raised its 2027 Philippine growth forecast to 5.6 percent from 5.4 percent, and expects the economy to maintain a 5.6 percent growth rate in 2028. Tightened financial conditions at the onset of the conflict triggered currency deprecation, equity market declines and rising local-currency bond yields in Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand, with only a partial recovery following a ceasefire.

Higher fertilizer prices will also drive up food prices, pushing expected global inflation to 4.0 percent this year from 3.3 percent in 2025. Downside risks indicate that more severe energy supply disruptions and financial stress could drag global growth down to 1.3 percent and push inflation to 4.4 percent.

In response to the crisis, governments implemented price caps, fuel subsidies, rationing and trade barriers.

By Othel V. Campos

MEMBER organizations of the Customer Xperience Association of the Philippines (CXAP) expect revenue to grow between 10 percent and 20 percent in 2027 as companies ramp up investments in artificial intelligence and automation, according to a CXAP 2026 executive survey released on Friday.

The industry body said new client acquisitions, expanding existing accounts and deeper integration of AI-enabled services across customer experience operations drive the cautiously optimistic outlook.

Despite the projected revenue uptick, CXAP members expect

MUFG Bank Ltd. and Security Bank Corp. committed to advancing sustainable finance and strategic partnerships to support the energy transition and long-term economic growth of the Philippines during the MUFG N0W Manila 2026 forum.

MUFG said the Philippines has emerged as one of its fastestgrowing sustainable finance markets in the region. The growth is driven by increasing investments in renewable energy and climaterelated projects.

Over the past decade, the alliance has helped connect Philippine companies to global capital and expertise to support investments in

headcount levels to remain largely unchanged next year, reflecting a shift toward productivity gains rather than workforce expansion.

The survey indicates that AI and automation reshape operational structures, forcing organizations to prioritize upskilling, role redesign, and selective talent augmentation instead of broad hiring increases.

Firms skew investment priorities heavily toward AI and technology infrastructure as they prepare for wider deployment of predictive analytics, conversational AI, agentic systems, and automation tools across customerfacing and back-end processes.

The association said three primary factors drive growth expectations:

renewable energy, infrastructure and other key sectors.

Forum organizers highlighted specific transactions, including MUFG’s participation in financing Vena Energy’s 300-megawatt-peak Opus Solar Energy Project in Ilocos Norte. The initiative represents the first renewable energy project for Vena Energy in the Philippines to be fully financed by international lenders.

Security Bank also supported Vena Group’s 80.6-megawatt Astra Solar Power Project through a green loan facility to contribute to the expansion of renewable energy capacity in the country. Othel V. Campos

the adoption of AI and automation, the expansion of existing client relationships, and the acquisition of new clients.

The trajectory aligns with broader trends accelerating digital transformation across customer experience operations in the Philippines.

The survey also underscores a shift in workforce composition, with digital skills, AI expertise and data analytics emerging as the most indemand capabilities as companies adjust to evolving service models.

The 2027 projections highlight an expansion in value rather than volume, as AI-led efficiency gains offset the need for proportional workforce growth.

PROPERTY consultant Savills Philippines urged the government to lift its moratorium on economic zone accreditations for information technology parks and buildings in Metro Manila and proposed that new incentives be granted exclusively to environmentally-sustainable developments.

The real estate solutions provider said in a report released in June 2026 titled “Lifting the PEZA Metro Manila Moratorium: A Green Building Accreditation Framework” that a conditional lifting

SEC flags illegal lending apps using Tala, Pera Sayo

THE Securities and Exchange Commission has warned the public against several online lending platforms that are falsely using the identities of legitimate financial companies to conduct unauthorized lending activities and solicit personal information.

In an advisory, the SEC flagged the website Perasayo.com for allegedly using the name, corporate identity and regulatory information of licensed lender Pera Sayo Lending Inc. without authorization to offer loans.

The corporate regulator also cautioned consumers against dealing with online platforms illegally using the name and branding of Tala Financing Philippines Inc., including Tala-Cash Loan Philippines, Tala AISI-loan app quickly and Tala Shuk Lending Inc.

According to the SEC, these platforms have been linked to possible phishing activities, unauthorized collection of personal information, harassment, abusive collection practices, misuse of consumer data and unauthorized financial transactions.

The SEC likewise warned against Finpine, an unregistered online lending platform that allegedly employs questionable practices such as the auto-disbursement of loans and aggressive collection methods.

The SEC said the entity also uses the logos of the SEC and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to create a false impression of legitimacy.

In a separate advisory, the regulator flagged the unauthorized use of the name “Zippeso,” previously used by an online lending platform operated by Lendora Lending Corp., in connection with another lending operation.

The SEC also advised the public not to transact with social media pages, websites and mobile applications that illegally use the corporate name, identity and regulatory credentials of Mabilis Cash Financing Corp.

The SEC urged consumers to exercise caution when dealing with online lending platforms and to verify the legitimacy of lenders before providing personal information or entering into financial transactions.

Jenniffer B. Austria

PH stock market joins global green disclosure platform

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Philippine Stock Exchange has become the first stock exchange in the world to join the global environmental disclosure platform CDP as a Capital Markets Signatory.

The PSE said the move will encourage publicly listed companies to improve environmental reporting and disclose climate-related risks and opportunities to investors.

“Our role as a capital market institution goes beyond facilitating in-

vestments. By joining CDP, we are signaling to our listed companies and investors that environmental transparency is essential to long-term value creation,” PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon said in a statement.

Monzon added that the exchange is encouraging all listed companies to participate in CDP’s disclosure system and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

CDP is a global nonprofit that has run an independent environmental disclosure system for 25 years. It helps investors, companies and governments track information needed to make sustainable decisions. In 2025, 22,100 companies—representing two-thirds of global market capitalization—disclosed data through CDP.

The PSE said CDP can help listed corporations identify how to improve

their systems, policies and governance to be more sustainable. The organization’s reporting framework helps companies identify and report climate-related financial risks and opportunities while aligning with major global sustainability standards. These include the International Financial Reporting Standards S2 climate disclosure standard.

The platform also incorporates recommendations from the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures and supports reporting on climate change, water security, forests, plastics and ocean impacts.

at

corporate social responsibility

NOW in talks with global tech firm for satellite broadband expansion

PHILIPPINE technology company

NOW Corp. said it is in final negotiations with a global tech firm expanding into satellites for a potential collaboration to bring low-earth orbit satellite connectivity services to the country.

The initiative aligns with the Konektadong Pinoy Act to bridge the digital divide and provide safe, reliable connections to underserved provinces.

The company said it is evaluating market development opportunities using next-generation broadband infrastructure in remote areas where tradi-

tional fiber and cellular networks are difficult or costly to deploy.

The collaboration remains subject to commercial arrangements, regulatory approvals and service availability.

This was discussed during the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting on June 4, 2026 where the firm outlined its 2026 market development plans. The plans focus on broadband infrastructure, trusted network solutions and next-generation connectivity services.

Satellite connectivity is expected to support economic activity in re-

BRAND GROWTH.

PLDT Global, the international unit of PLDT, Inc. anchors brand growth to the expanding economic influence of overseas Filipinos. The company’s platform ecosystem offers partners direct access to demand across distribution, commerce and media. PLDT Global has built its ecosystem around three platforms: Vortex, TinBo (Tindahan ni Bossing) and RAMDAM (Real Audience Moments & Digital Ads Management). Each platform addresses a distinct layer of overseas Filipino engagement.

mote communities by helping microbusinesses, eco-tourism sites, farmer cooperatives, coastal areas and local enterprises participate in online markets and digital financial services.

The technology will also support public service continuity and disaster resilience, allowing local disaster risk reduction offices, rural health units and schools to maintain connectivity when ground-based infrastructure fails.

“The Philippines has vast potential, but economic growth and public service delivery are often hindered by the digital divide. We believe next-

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines’ two largest telecommunications companies have accelerated network restoration across southern Mindanao following a recent 7.8-magnitude earthquake.

Globe Telecom Inc. has restored services in 31 of the 32 affected municipalities across Southern Mindanao. Services are now fully restored in the provinces of Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte, South Cotabato, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani.

Restoration teams remain deployed in areas still experiencing intermittent signals, particularly where commer-

generation connectivity technologies can help bring high-speed access closer to barangays and communities that need it most,” NOW Corp. president and chief executive Patricio Carlos said.

This complements the company’s broader strategy to expand secure networks across the country.

“Whether it is helping a municipal disaster office stay online during a typhoon, or enabling a farmer to check crop prices online, our market development efforts are focused on digital inclusion and countryside empowerment,” Carlos said.

cial power outages continue to affect telecommunications facilities. To support affected customers during recovery efforts, Globe rolled out connectivity assistance and emergency support offers in South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani. Meanwhile, PLDT Enterprise, the B2B arm of the PLDT Group, has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and local government units in General Santos, Sarangani and South Cotabato to deploy Starlink connectivity in key Mindanao hospitals. The satellite internet services are now operational at the Malungon Sarangani Provincial Hospital and the Alabel Sarangani Provincial Hospital.

Manila Water reinforces East Zone infrastructure for Habagat season

MANILA Water has activated its full range of operational preparedness measures as the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, sets in amid evolving El Niño conditions that are expected to influence rainfall patterns.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, El Niño conditions are already present in the tropical Pacific, with a more than 80 percent likelihood of developing into a full-blown event. While El Niño typically brings below-normal rainfall, its interaction with the Habagat can still result in enhanced monsoon activity and periods of intense rainfall, particularly over the western sections of the country.

For Manila Water, these shifting conditions are not new. The company’s operational approach is anchored on year-round preparedness, enabling it to respond to

both heavy rainfall events and potential supply variability associated with climate patterns.

As part of its standard operating procedures, Manila Water has strengthened network monitoring, intensified maintenance of critical facilities and prepositioned response teams to address localized service concerns. These measures are routinely implemented to ensure service continuity, particularly during the Habagat season when weather conditions can change rapidly.

The company’s integrated system operations—supported by diversified water sources and optimized treatment and distribution—allow Manila Water to manage fluctuations in raw water availability while maintaining a stable supply across its East Zone concession area.

“As the Habagat season progresses and the impact of an El Niño begins to be felt,

our focus remains on maintaining reliable and uninterrupted water service for our customers. Our systems and protocols are in place as part of our day-to-day operations, allowing us to respond quickly to changing weather conditions,” said Dittie Galang, Manila Water Communication Affairs Group head.

Preventive maintenance activities have been expanded across pumping stations, reservoirs and sewerage facilities to reduce the risk of flooding-related disruptions while ensuring service availability, even during El Niño periods. Non-revenue water, or water lost to leaks and illegal connections, is kept below 15% to ensure more water is delivered to customers. Field teams have also been deployed to ensure assets are operating at optimal levels during periods of low dam levels or sustained rainfall.

PH cement industry set to launch decarbonization roadmap on June 29

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine cement industry is set to formally launch its Cement Decarbonization Roadmap on June 29, establishing industry-wide targets and strategies to reduce carbon emissions through 2030 and 2050 in support of the country’s climate goals.

Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines Executive Director

Renato Baja said the roadmap serves as a clear commitment by the local cement sector to lower its carbon footprint despite the industry’s growing annual production capacity, which is currently at 52 million metric tons.

“The focus is on reducing carbon emissions from cement manufacturing,” Baja said.

PH eyes Swedish investments

By Thony Rose Lesaca and Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine government is exploring partnership opportunities with Sweden in strategic sectors including energy, digitalization and manufacturing to support economic growth and create high-quality jobs, the Department of Finance said Thursday.

During a courtesy meeting with a Swedish delegation on June 9, Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go underscored the government’s push for greater investments to strengthen economic competitiveness.

“What we are pushing for is job creation. We welcome manufac-

DOE issues circular for mid-merit natural gas capacity auction

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ENERGY Secretary Sharon Garin has signed a circular prescribing guidelines for a mid-merit natural gas capacity auction for gas-fired power plants.

Garin signed Department Circular No. DC 2026-06-0013 on June 3, as the Department of Energy deems it necessary to conduct a competitive auction to procure additional mid-merit natural gas capacities. The move addresses the projected power supply-demand outlook and system reliability requirements, particularly in the Visayas, Mindanao and off-grid areas.

The DOE determined that a centralized auction mechanism, tailored to the technical and commercial specifics of the natural gas sector, is the most efficient method to procure this capacity transparently and competitively.

The circular seeks to ensure a reliable and adequate supply of electricity by leveraging natural gas as a transition fuel, providing sufficient capacity for the power system’s midmerit requirements.

The natural gas capacity to be auctioned will be determined by the department through the Natural Gas Auction Committee, with assistance from the technical working group. The decision will be based on the department’s comprehensive planning and technical assessments.

The DOE said the determination will align with the objectives of energy security, system reliability and the efficient utilization of available natural gas resources. It will take into account the latest Power Development Plan simulations, the accepted Power Supply Procurement Plans of distribution utilities, and other relevant data, forecasts, plans, policies and issuances.

According to the circular, the Energy Regulatory Commission will determine the Gas Auction Threshold Price for each auction round. The GAT Price will serve as the price ceiling, and any offer exceeding this value will be automatically disqualified.

Payment and settlement for the energy or capacity delivered by the winning bidders will be collected, administered and settled through the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market by the market operator.

The circular also identified the capacities that may be accepted as offers during the auction.

turing investments, for instance, because it has the capability to create many jobs for the country’s highly skilled labor force,” Go said.

The Southeast Asian nation aims to attract foreign capital into renewable and clean energy, artificial intelligence and cyber-

security solutions.

Go said potential partnerships in healthcare, agriculture, food security, electronics, mineral processing and the services sector could expand employment opportunities.

Sweden’s representatives highlighted their country’s extensive experience in fossil-free energy technologies and renewable energy solutions as a basis for collaboration.

“In energy, of course, we are mostly fossil-free. We are working with the Swedish Energy Agency on various technologies, including floating offshore wind as well

as integrated wind and solar solutions. We hope to see some installations down the line, and there are already 2 or 3 companies involved in these initiatives,” Swedish trade commissioner to the Philippines Johan Lennefalk said.

To ensure timely project implementation, the European delegation urged the Philippine government to continue refining its regulatory environment.

Sweden Ambassador to the Philippines Anna Ferry expressed hope that the government would continue streamlining and accelerating grant processing procedures to help attract more investments.

INTERNET ACCESS. Students line up at Agsanayan National High School during a site validation by the Department of Information and Communications Technology Regional Office VI, June 1, 2026. The DICT monitored SIM utilization, connectivity and user feedback following a Feb. 13 distribution where 654 SIM cards were given to students and staff under the Free Public Internet Access Program.

The roadmap aims to reduce the share of clinker used in cement production, as clinker manufacturing accounts for the bulk of the industry’s carbon emissions.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization, with funding from the Canadian government, supported the development of the roadmap.

The roadmap was developed with technical support from the European Cement Research Academy, in partnership with CeMAP and the Department of Trade and Industry. Stakeholders began work in June 2025, completed the initial draft in March 2026, and finalized the document in May following a series of refinements.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Japan International Cooperation Agency has completed its technical assistance program for the Light Rail Manila Corporation, aimed at driving energy conservation initiatives on Light Rail Transit Line 1.

Launched in July 2025, the initiative focused on improving operational efficiency, lowering electricity costs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions to support the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable urban transport.

During the program, Japanese experts analyzed LRT-1’s infrastructure and found that traction power—the energy used to move the trains—accounts for over 80 percent of the line’s total electricity consumption.

The assessment also revealed significant inefficiencies due to regenerative energy loss, which is currently restricted by system and operational constraints. These findings highlight a major opportunity for cost and emission reductions by combining technical upgrades with smarter operational measures.

To address these challenges, the experts proposed a phased strategy that pairs cost-effective, immediate operational adjustments with long-term infrastructure upgrades.

This strategy is mapped out in a new medium- to long-term roadmap from 2026 to 2035, designed to help LRMC systematically implement energy-saving measures. This push for railway efficiency aligns with the Philippine government’s Paris Agreement commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 2030.

Delivered during the landmark 70th anniversary of Philippines-Japan diplomatic relations, the program serves as a model for greening the local transport sector. It builds upon JICA’s 2025 collaboration with Sumitomo Corp. and Hankyu Corp. under the Private Sector Investment Finance scheme to support LRT-1’s operations and maintenance.

Gov’t agencies ramp up laboratory testing for emerging food contaminants

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture’s National Fisheries Research and Development Institute and the Department of Science and Technology’s Industrial Technology Development Institute have partnered to enhance the country’s capacity to detect and monitor emerging contaminants in food.

Funded under the DOST Grants-inAid Program, the partnership seeks

to strengthen national capability to detect, monitor and assess per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) in food products. These include contaminants that may originate from packaging materials, consumer products or industrial processes.

The project will help determine emerging PFAS and MOH in food, substances that have attracted growing global attention due to their potential risks to human health and

the environment.

NFRDI executive director Maria Theresa Mutia and ITDI Ddrector

Annabelle Briones signed a memorandum of agreement on June 9, 2026, to strengthen the country’s capacity to address emerging food safety risks through improved research, laboratory capability development and closer scientific cooperation.

Mutia said the partnership will combine ITDI’s expertise in advanced analytical testing with NFRDI’s

mandate on fisheries research to generate scientific data on PFAS occurrence in aquaculture products, support risk assessment studies and contribute to the formulation of evidence-based food safety policies and standards.

The collaboration will also support the upgrading of NFRDI laboratory capabilities and further develop the technical competencies of its researchers in analyzing emerging contaminants.

PH strengthens corporate green reporting

AS CLIMATE disclosure requirements increasingly influence trade, investment and corporate competitiveness, the Philippines is strengthening systems to enable more credible and comparable greenhouse gas reporting across industries.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Japan’s Ministry of the Environment signed a Letter of Intent in Quezon City on May 28 to advance cooperation on corporate GHG measurement and reporting.

“This Letter of Intent is a strategic step toward building a unified, datadriven system that strengthens both national policy and private sector readiness,” said Analiza Rebuelta-

Teh, DENR undersecretary for finance, information systems and climate change.

The partnership responds to growing global demand for verifiable emissions data, as climate-related disclosures become central to investment decisions, sustainability reporting and emerging carbon-related trade mechanisms.

“By collaborating on sustainability information disclosure systems, exchanging views to enhance the compatibility of these systems in accordance with the GHG Protocol will help reduce the burden on companies between Japan and the Philippines having deep economic ties,” said Kentaro Doi, Japan’s vice minister of environmental affairs.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

ERC clears P21.3b in power refunds

ward.

SHFC awards land titles to 342 families

STATE-RUN Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) awarded land titles to 342 beneficiaries from five homeowners’ associations in Pampanga and Bataan provinces on June 11, 2026, marking its largestever distribution ceremony. The agency distributed the Transfer Certificates of Title under its Community Mortgage Program, a core initiative of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program. The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) oversees the national housing plan.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling, SHFC president and chief executive Federico Laxa and Sta. Rita Mayor Reynan Calo led the event, which secured land ownership for low-income families on the eve of Philippine Independence Day.

The 342 beneficiaries belong to the Virgen Delos Remedios Homeowners’ Association Phase 1 and Phase 2 in Sta. Rita, Pampanga; St. Rosary Village Homeowners’ Association and Bagong Diwa Homeowners’ Association in San Fernando, Pampanga; and Bataan Holy Land Homeowners’ Association in Balanga, Bataan.

Officials said the distribution provides secure land tenure and protects residents from displacement. The government funds such socialized housing initiatives through subsidized loans, often valued in billions of pesos, to make urban land tenure affordable for marginalized communities.

Laxa said that the distribution of land titles marks the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream for the beneficiaries and their families, adding that the titles represent a legacy for their children and future generations.

Calo expressed his gratitude to the national housing agencies, noting that the initiative finally provides a solution for his constituents and brings joy to the community by granting them official ownership of their land.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said it facilitated P21.3 billion in consumer refunds over the past 10 months amid a push

The refunds cover over- and underrecoveries, regulatory reset adjustments and the actual weighted average tariff refund of Manila Electric Co, the country’s largest power distributor.

The announcement coincides with the ERC marking its 25th year in June 2026. The regulator said its output

from August 2025 to May 2026 already exceeded typical full-year performance benchmarks under a “New ERC” agenda focused on transparency, efficiency and consumer welfare.

ERC chairperson and chief executive Francis Saturnino Juan, who assumed office on Aug. 11, 2025, said the agency’s mission is straightfor-

“Our mission is straightforward: to regulate the power industry in a way that is effective, efficient, and prioritizes the welfare of consumers. These gains reflect the shared commitment and hard work of the entire Commission,” Juan said.

Juan said that during the 10-month period, the commission released 2,142 decisions and orders covering rate cases, power supply agreements, capital expenditure approvals, consumer complaints and enforcement actions.

The ERC also stepped up enforcement, issuing 244 show-cause orders,

resolving 38 consumer cases and addressing 3,875 complaints through letters and emails.

In the renewable energy sector, the regulator simplified net-metering procedures, which led to a 243.56-percent surge in registrations.

The program now includes 23,331 qualified end-users and 228,766.63 kilowatts peak capacity connected to the grid.

“These results underscore what can be achieved through a unified and responsive institution,” Juan said, adding that the commission will continue to strengthen its regulatory systems and deepen stakeholder engagement.

THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) board of trustees welcomed Ricardo Blancaflor as its new chairperson on June 10, 2026, succeeding Rodney Del Rosario Jr. Blancaflor brings a record in government service, legal work and policy leadership to the state pension fund. The leadership transition comes as the agency continues to enhance member experience, improve opera-

IN BRIEF

Metrobank, partners work to address education gaps

METROBANK Foundation Inc.

and its partners have expanded their community initiatives to address critical gaps in the Philippine education sector, aligning their programs with the key priority areas identified by the Second Congressional Commission on Education.

The multi-pronged strategy spans foundational learning, instructional resource distribution, school infrastructure development, and teacher welfare, targeting challenges from early childhood development through tertiary education.

To tackle foundational literacy, the company teamed up with Binhi English Literacy Foundation Inc. to run an after-school remediation program for kindergarten and Grade 1 learners. The initiative yielded an average learning gain of 63.6 percent for kindergarten students and 53.3 percent for Grade 1 students, surpassing the initial targets of 30 percent to 50 percent.

The organization also launched the Support for Optimal Learning and Understanding To Improve Overall Numeracy program to address mathematics anxiety and learning gaps. During its pilot run at San Miguel Heights Elementary School in Valenzuela, the program recorded a 26 percent average increase in numeracy scores, with 95.4 percent of participating students showing improvement. The initiative also reduced math anxiety among 64.2 percent of the learners.

AI inventory boosts

sari-sari stores’ sales

AI-POWERED inventory planning is boosting revenues for Philippine sarisari stores, with top products seeing a 79 percent surge in median sales, according to a report by local tech startup Packworks.

The study, based on more than 1 million monthly transactions across a network of 300,000 micro-retailers, showed that store owners using the

artificial intelligence tool known as the Store Insighting Project (SIP) recorded measurable gains within two months of adoption.

Optimizing stocks of high-demand items drove the median gross merchandise value (GMV) from P187,229 to P335,818 per store.

Stores using SIP recorded a 47-percent increase in median GMV for seasonal products, showing better responsiveness to shifts in buying patterns during rainy days, weekends and peak periods.

The platform also helped reduce losses from slow-moving inventory, with median GMV from these items rising 96 percent from P7,361.60 to P14,429 as store owners adjusted stock strategies and improved turnover.

Overall, SIP-enabled stores recorded a 29 percent increase in median total sales and a 20 percent increase in transactions. Othel V. Campos

Banks’ real estate exposure slips to 19.07%

THE real estate exposure of Philippine banks and trust entities slipped to 19.07 percent in the first quarter of 2026 from 19.41 percent a year ago on a more measured credit allocation, data from the Bangko Senttal ng Pilipinas showed. This marked an improvement quarteron-quarter from the 18.93-percent exposure in the fourth quarter of 2025.

tional efficiency and ensure respon

sive service to its stakeholders.

GSIS president and general-manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso expressed confidence in the appointment, noting that Blancaflor will support the board in guiding GSIS as it strengthens its ginhawa programs and services for government workers and pensioners.

“The GSIS looks forward to working closely with Chairperson Blancaflor

MSME FINANCING. Skyro head of SME Michael Tabaday shares growth insights for Filipino MSMEs at the 18th Philippine SME Business Expo at the SMX Convention Center Manila. As a platinum sponsor of the expo Skyro, a Securities and Exchange Commissionregistered fintech lending company, says 33 percent of MSMEs identified access to capital as one of their biggest business challenges, with 83 percent still relying on personal savings to sustain operations.

as we continue to strengthen the Fund, expand benefits for our members and pensioners, and pursue innovations that improve public service,” Veloso said.

“He has the full support and cooperation of management and the board of trustees as we build on the gains already achieved and take the GSIS to even greater heights,” he said.

Veloso also paid tribute to the leadership of Del Rosario during his ten-

By Darwin G. Amojelar

COLOR Your World Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of Casino Plus, is mobilizing both shortand long-term aid for earthquake victims in Mindanao through its flagship disaster resilience pillar, Project Bigkis.

The foundation aims to deliver immediate, coordinated humanitarian assistance to thousands of families affected by the magnitude-7.8 earthquake that struck offshore Sarangani earlier this week, complementing ongoing government and partner-led disaster response efforts.

Color Your World Foundation said it will distribute over P3 million worth of emergency packages, which include at least 150 livable

tents, nearly 1,500 hygiene and medicine kits, more than 1,000 solar-powered lamps and potable drinking water for the hardest-hit areas in General Santos City and Sarangani Province.

Casino Plus chief executive Evan Spytma expressed the company’s solidarity with the affected communities.

“Our hearts are with our brothers and sisters in Mindanao during this devastating time,” Spytma said.

“When disaster strikes, the truest measure of who we are—as organizations and as people—is not what we say, but how quickly and meaningfully we show up. We are committed to acting swiftly, providing temporary shelter, essential supplies and the immediate support they need to begin healing,” Spytma said.

ure as board chairman.

“Chairman Rodney led with wisdom, professionalism and a steady hand, helping steer GSIS in fulfilling its mandate to serve millions of government workers and pensioners,” Veloso said.

“His calm demeanor, thoughtful insights and commitment to good governance have left a lasting impact on GSIS and on those who had the privilege of working with him,” he said.

By Thony Rose Lesaca

RISING living costs are pushing Filipino households into financially vulnerable positions, forcing many to prioritize daily expenses over longterm savings and financial security, a study by Sun Life showed.

In its Financial Resilience Index 2026, the financial services company found that the share of highly resilient Philippine households fell to 19 percent from 33 percent.

While households remain capable of meeting day-to-day expenses, they are becoming less confident about their financial future.

Mounting costs for essential needs such as utilities, transportation, groceries, cooking fuel and healthcare are straining household finances and shaping financial behavior amid persistent inflationary pressures, Sun Life said.

“With 95 percent of Filipinos saying inflation has made it harder to cover monthly expenses, the findings highlight how cost pressures are influencing both financial behavior and mindset,” the company said.

The study showed that many Filipinos are making short-term adjustments to cope with rising costs, often at the expense of their long-term financial stability.

Data showed that 22 percent of respondents are drawing down their savings, 30 percent are reducing or skipping essential spending and 9 percent paused their retirement contributions. Financial preparedness remains limited, with only 7 percent of respondents feeling very financially secure. About 24 percent believe they could sustain themselves for more than six months without income.

Globe extends support to nationwide ‘26 Brigada Eskwela

AS thousands of schools nationwide prepare for the return of learners, Globe joined the National Capital Region launch of Brigada Eskwela 2026 at Kapitbahayan Elementary School in Navotas City, helping strengthen school readiness through connectivity support and volunteerdriven campus improvements.

Led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, the June 2 kickoff gathered stakeholders under the theme “Bayanihan sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman.” The event underscored the shared responsibility of creating learning environments where students can learn, grow and succeed. Echoing this spirit of bayanihan, Globe deployed 200 SIMs for teachers and parents to help strengthen communication and improve access to digital resources. Globe employees also participated in classroom repainting and campus improvement activities to help prepare the school for the new academic year ahead of the opening of classes on June 8.

Extending its reach in the provinces, Globe has mobilized an estimated 250 employee volunteers to participate in various regional kickoff activities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Local teams rolled out support in Mandaue City, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte, Marikina City, and Batangas. To cap off the weeklong initiative, Globe volunteers joined the final wave of Brigada Eskwela activities in Pampanga and Zamboanga del Norte on June 5, ensuring a comprehensive push for campus readiness across the country. The support comes as the country continues to address significant learning gaps. Recent Department of Education data showed that 87% of assessed Grade 11 students are not yet independent readers, highlighting the need to strengthen foundational learning among Filipino youth. As education increasingly intersects with technology, initiatives that promote both literacy and digital citizenship play an important role in helping learners thrive in the digital age.

OpenAI, Anthropic warn of AI dangers

SAN FRANCISCO

—OpenAI and Anthropic, two AI companies heading for stock market debuts along with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, are sharpening their warnings about the risks of AI -- even as they race to outpace each other with ever more powerful technology.

Critics say it amounts to “fearmongering,” or a calculated move to win over investors.

Should we worry?

Both San Francisco companies -- makers of ChatGPT and Claude -are focused on the same scenario: socalled recursive self-improvement, a stage where AI systems could essentially design and train the next generation of AI with little human involvement.

Anthropic called that scenario plausible but uncertain last week. OpenAI went further Monday, predicting it would arrive by March 2028.

Is that a good thing or a bad thing?

OpenAI treats it as a goal, seeing it as an automated researcher that could speed up scientific discovery.

The ChatGPT creators promise a personal AI for every person on Earth -- something they say could prove more transformative than electricity or the car.

Like those technologies, they argue, AI can be made safe once society builds the right guardrails, just as it eventually developed the seatbelt, speed limits and driver’s licenses.

Anthropic also points to potential breakthroughs in medicine, technology and the economy, but sounds more cautious, openly warning of the risk of “loss of control.”

Hit the brakes, together

“You want the option to be able to take your foot off the gas and put your foot on the brake”,” Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark said last week. Both companies have floated the idea of international coordination to slow down the whole industry together -- including Chinese rivals and Google.

That runs directly against the current dynamic, in which each lab is pushing hard to attract the massive investment needed to stay ahead.

Anthropic last week proposed a global coordination system to temporarily suspend the development of frontier AI -- but only if no competitor takes advantage of the pause to get ahead.

That condition is widely seen as nearly impossible to meet anytime soon.

OpenAI on Monday also introduced the idea of a potential multi-

lateral body that could “slow frontier development if necessary.”

Neither idea is new. OpenAI has been calling since 2023 for an international AI authority similar to the IAEA, the United Nations nuclear watchdog, with the power to limit the “rate of growth in AI capability.” Today, both OpenAI and Anthropic are putting out new models roughly every four to six weeks. In February, Anthropic updated its internal guidelines on what behaviors it will never allow.

The revised version now has two columns: what the company refuses to do on its own, and what it thinks the whole industry should avoid, but won’t commit to unilaterally.

‘Fear-mongering’

These pledges are resurfacing at a convenient moment: both companies are in the middle of a race to raise capital.

They each announced in early June that they had filed preliminary IPO applications -- not yet public -- seen as a way to gauge investor interest and prepare for a swift market listing.

Credibility is being questioned from multiple directions.

David Sacks, a tech entrepreneur who served as the Trump administration’s top AI adviser, has accused Anthropic of “fear-mongering” -- a charge that has spread widely across the industry and within the administration. He argues the company is pushing for government regulation of AI with the hidden goal of sidelining competitors. French AI researcher Yann LeCun has made similar arguments. From the other direction, the “Stop AI” movement says the commitments are empty words.

Both labs’ talk of a possible slowdown “comes off to me as pre-IPO marketing, in an effort to address public backlash (against AI),” said Gary Marcus, an academic who has become one of the most prominent critics of AI hype. AFP

AI hinges on ‘execution muscle’, decades of operational expertise

TP in the Philippines, a global leader in digital business services, underscored how the future of artificial intelligence (AI) lies not simply in access to technology, but in the ability to implement AI strategies that deliver measurable business outcomes.

During the recent GenAI Summit Philippines 2026, Vishnu Raj, Vice President for AI at TP in the Philippines, emphasized that many organizations today possess access to similar AI models and platforms but often lack the operational maturity and orchestration capabilities needed to translate AI into tangible business impact.

“Everyone has access to the same technologies today, but not everyone has the same processes and expertise,” Raj said during his presentation. “The real differentiator is orchestration intelligence. At TP, we have decades of domain expertise, and rich and deep experience in AI, both in deployment and optimization, to maximize value in every customer interaction. Our orchestration capabilities ensure that AI isn’t just a tool, but a driver of specific business outcomes.”

According to Raj, TP’s long-standing

expertise in customer experience operations allows the company to identify where AI can create the highest value across the customer journey while ensuring seamless integration between automation and human support.

Driving Business Outcomes Through the TP.ai FAB Solution Suite

A key highlight of the presentation was a live demonstration of an AI agent capable of identifying the nature of a customer’s requests, customer authentication, troubleshooting, identifying up-sell and cross-sell opportunities

and making the right pitch, and escalation to a human representative when necessary.

The solution is built on TP’s proprietary Foundational AI Backbone framework that seamlessly orchestrates AI agents along human agents for a unified and elevated customer experience.

Raj demonstrated how TP orchestrates multiple AI technologies, including autonomous AI agents, large language models, machine learning systems, and customer relationship management (CRM) integrations, to

deliver end-to-end customer support experiences at enterprise scale.

“We work closely with the people on the production floor, the agents, quality analysts, and subject matter experts who understand customer concerns deeply,” Raj said. “That operational knowledge is critical in identifying where AI can deliver the greatest value, including the objective of reducing the total cost of operations.”

Raj also discussed TP’s phased approach to AI deployment, including prioritizing high-volume, lowercomplexity interactions before scaling into more advanced use cases. This would enable companies to prove return of investment and value from AI sooner and enable them to scale further, he added.

He further emphasized the importance of maintaining human oversight for complex and sensitive customer interactions.

Through the combination of decades of AI expertise and continued innovation, TP continues to strengthen its role as a leader in digital transformation in the Philippines and globally, helping brands create customer experiences that are simpler, faster, and safer.

The annual GenAI Summit Philippines gathers leaders, innovators, and enterprises to discuss emerging developments, use cases, and opportunities shaping the future of generative AI.

From perfect shots to real moments: The new language of photography

TODAY’S best photos do more than document a moment—they capture a feeling. As social media evolves, people are increasingly drawn to images that convey atmosphere, emotion, and personality. Whether it’s a city walk at sunset, a weekend getaway, or a spontaneous moment with friends, users want photos that tell a story rather than simply record what happened.

This shift is also changing how people use their smartphone cameras.

Mastering Composition from a Distance Telephoto photography has become a valuable tool for creating cleaner compositions, highlighting details, and capturing more natural-looking portraits from a comfortable distance. The Xiaomi 17T Series embraces this

trend with its Leica 5X Telephoto lens, giving users the flexibility to frame with greater depth and precision.

By narrowing the field of view, the 5X Telephoto lens strips away background clutter, isolates the true subject, and creates a beautifully natural background blur (bokeh) without digital artifice. From framing the architectural geometry of a travel destination to capturing candid, natural-looking portraits from a comfortable distance, this lens allows creators to shoot with the depth, compression, and precision traditionally reserved for professional DSLR equipment.

Preserving Emotion in Motion

At the same time, photography is becoming more dynamic. Rather than relying on a single still image, users are looking for ways to preserve the movement and emotion

surrounding a moment. With Leica Live Moment in

ries, this feature elegantly

the crucial seconds before and after the shutter is pressed, preserving subtle shifts in expression, the ambient movement of a scene, and the authentic atmosphere surrounding a memory. It transforms photography from a frozen second in time into a living archive, allowing users to revisit the

As people move from capturing perfect shots to capturing meaningful experiences,

ing less about technical

and more about

Another 1st in PH: Mapúa o ers AI Fluency Strategy

THE Mapúa Education Group (Mapúa)—comprising Mapúa University, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (MMCL), Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (MMCM), and Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC)—in collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU), is once again redefining the country’s academic landscape by launching the Philippines’ very first comprehensive institutional AI Fluency Strategy.

Moving past basic AI literacy, this game changing initiative completely redesigns the university’s academic model to develop discipline-grounded, human-centered, and future-ready graduates capable of mastering humanAI collaboration to solve complex realworld problems.

“It is important for Mapúa to be at the forefront because the group has a long tradition of preparing professionals for fields that build the country—engineering, architecture, technology, business, sciences, and other disciplines. As AI transforms these fields, Mapúa has a responsibility to help define what future-ready education should look like in the Philippines. Advocating AI fluency also supports Mapúa’s broader mission

By treating human judgment coupled with tech skills as the premium competitive edge in an increasingly automating global landscape, Mapúa ensures its graduates step directly into high-impact, relevant careers. of student success, innovation, digital transformation, lifelong learning, and nation-building. If Philippine higher education is to remain relevant, it must prepare graduates who can work with AI responsibly and productively, not only graduates who are aware of AI at a basic level,” Mapúa President and CEO Dodjie S. Maestrecampo remarked.

A Crucial Shift from AI Literacy to AI Fluency

While many institutions focus merely on introductory AI usage, the whole of Mapúa establishes a definitive line between basic tool awareness and true, professional fluency.

“AI literacy is the ability to understand what AI is, how it works, what

its limitations are, and how to use it responsibly. It is the necessary starting point. Students learn about generative AI, prompting, hallucinations, bias, data privacy, academic integrity, and responsible use. AI fluency goes beyond awareness and basic use. It means that students can apply AI meaningfully within their discipline, evaluate AI out-

puts critically, improve AI-assisted work using human judgment, and remain accountable for the final output,” Maestrecampo explained.

“At Mapúa, this difference becomes evident in the learning experience because AI is not only treated as a tool or a topic in one course. It is embedded across the curriculum through four layers: AI for all, AI in the discipline, AI for learning, and advanced AI pathways. In practical terms, an AIliterate student may know how to use an AI tool but an AI-fluent Mapúan knows when to use AI, how to question its output, how to apply disciplinary standards, how to detect errors or bias, and how to use AI to solve real problems responsibly,” he added. Without this deliberate transition to fluency, traditional academic institutions risk falling behind rapidly evolving workforce standards and the everdynamic global landscape.

“The transition is vital because AI is already changing the way knowledge is produced, work is performed, and professional decisions are made. For Mapúa, moving to AI fluency is a way of keeping the institution relevant to the needs of the new century. The student learning behaviors as well as industry expectations and the professions for which we prepare our students are evolving. If the university remains only at the level of AI literacy, we risk preparing students with capabilities suited for a world that is rapidly becoming outdated,” the Mapúa executive noted.

The AI Fluency Blueprint Rolling out fully for Academic Year (AY) 2026-2027, Mapúa’s AI Fluency action plan introduces comprehensive upgrades across the entire student lifecycle. The agile four-layer curriculum seamlessly integrates artificial intelligence across all programs, moving from foundational generative AI concepts up to advanced pathways like AI Engineering and Data Science. Under the innovative and pioneering ‘HyFlip’ pedagogical model, Mapúa inverts traditional classroom learning by shifting basic content transmission to AI-supported asynchronous study, saving vital face-to-face class hours for critical debate, mentoring, and collaborative problem-solving.

TCL unveils A400 Series Lifestyle TV for modern PH homes

FOR those seeking a television that seamlessly complements an artful aesthetic, TCL Electronics has delivered the ultimate solution. As the No. 1 Panel TV brand in the Philippines and a global leader in both televisions and air conditioners, TCL finally introduces the TCL A400 Series. Designed for modern Filipino homes, this premium lifestyle TV masterfully blends elegant, gallery-like aesthetics with deeply immersive entertainment.

True to its design-centric philosophy, the TCL A400 Series perfectly complements an artful home. Modern televisions are no longer just about entertainment; they are vital to a household’s overall lifestyle and aesthetic. With the A400 Series, TCL completely redefines the role of a television in the modern living space.

Beyond Screen, Beyond Imagination

TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), is giving subscribers more value with the enhanced Saya All 99 and the new Saya All 109 - both designed to deliver bigger data and a more worry-free week of connectivity filled with fun or ‘saya.’

With data connectivity now an essential to everyday life, TNT continues to better match how Filipinos stream, scroll, game, and stay connected. As such, its Saya All 99 and Saya All 109 offers now come with more generous data allocations and value at every price point, giving users the confidence that their needs are covered for an entire week. More value, more saya

The enhanced Saya All 99 now comes with a total of 20 GB of data, combining 10 GB for Facebook, TikTok, and Mobile Legends, 7 GB of open access data, and 3 GB of 5G data, all valid for seven days. Subscribers also continue to enjoy Unlimited Calls and Texts to All Networks, making it an all-in-one package for both data and communication needs.

Complementing this upgrade is the launch of Saya All 109, a new offer designed for users who want an even more seamless and “Unli” experience. It includes Unlimited access to Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, Mobile Legends, and TikTok along with 7 GB of open access data and 3 GB of 5G data, plus Unlimited Calls and Texts to All Networks, also valid for seven days.

TNT customers can register to Saya All 99 and Saya All 109 by simply logging into Smart App, by dialing *123# on their phone, or heading to accredited TNT loading channels nationwide.

“Our priority is to continuously improve the value our subscribers get from every peso they spend. With the upgraded Saya All 99 and the new Saya All 109, we’re giving them more data, more flexibility, and a more reliable experience to keep their ‘saya’ going all week,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, FVP and co-OIC of Smart.

“Once again, TCL elevates home entertainment and viewing pleasure with the introduction of the A400 Series. Every detail is meticulously engineered to enhance your home display while delivering an indulgent sensory experience. We know how excited you are for this, so we’re thrilled to finally share it with you!” says Maxi Chen, TCL Senior Product Manager of Brownline.

If the idea of owning a design-forward art TV inspires you, the A400 Series, namely A400M and the A400 Pro, are both built to exceed your highest expectations. Prepare to im-

merse yourself in an entirely new standard of home entertainment. Both models share the same key selling points, including the Ultra Slim Design, QD-Mini LED technology, Art Gallery Mode, and ONKYO 2.0 Hi-Fi Sound System.

For a true art-gallery feel, the A400 Pro is equipped with an anti-reflection Matte HVA Panel that eliminates distracting

glare. In contrast, the A400M features a traditional, high-contrast HVA Panel. Both TVs double as a digital canvas when not in use. It effortlessly converts any room into a personal gallery, preloaded with hundreds of iconic artworks spanning centuries of art history. The TCL A400 Series has more than 100,000 pre-generated Al artworks from classical style to impressionism. Just tap on the style and theme, and you get to personalize your screen to your style in seconds. When it comes to color performance, TCL QLED technology utilizes advanced Quantum Dot materials integrated across multiple layers. By incorporating a high light-transmittance film, the system improves optical efficiency and delivers a 10% energy saving for the entire machine. Paired with precision backlighting, this innovation renders more than a billion hues of exceptionally vivid colors. The enhanced brightness illuminates subtle details, offering an immersive, lifelike viewing experience that effortlessly unveils hidden nuances in every frame.

BI to implement high-tech border security upgrades

THE Bureau of Immigration is currently pursuing a ₱10.74-billion Public-Private Partnership project to overhaul border control procedures across 11 major airports, one international seaport, and six border stations.

The Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services (CAISS) project, which is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) biometric and border security standards and practices, includes contactless corridors, biometric facial recognition, immigration kiosks, and advanced passenger pre-screening systems.

ICAO is a UN specialized agency based in Montreal, Canada, that is responsible for establishing the standards and practices that govern international air navigation. According to BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval, the bureau is committed to continuous improvement of its processes.

“Tayo naman po sa Bureau of Immigration ay tuloy-tuloy po ang ating mga efforts para makahanap po tayo ng ways to improve our processes, improve our systems, para yung ating target na bagong immigration ay mai-anchor natin nang tuluyan doon sa bagong Pilipinas na gusto ng ating

Pangulo,” said Sandoval. As the Philippines saw a steady increase in foreign tourist arrivals in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year, the BI emphasized how vital security at the country’s airports and seaports is.

“The stronger our border security is, the greater it helps the country’s tourism,” said Sandoval, describ-

ing the figures as heartening, noting that the upward trend continues even during the lean months of June, with South Koreans and Americans still topping the list of visitors.

“As compared po to last year, nakakatuwa po ‘yung figures kasi nakikita natin steadily rising ang ating arrivals for the second quarter of this year,” she said. “For April last year, nasa 1.337 [million]. Ngayon, 1.358.

‘Yung May naman, tumaas din. From 1.299, naging 1.309.” Even in June, traditionally considered a lean season because of the end of long holidays, the start of classes, and the rainy weather, traveler numbers are increasing. She added that the upward trajectory typically plateaus through the third quarter before spiking again in the fourth quarter.

“Pagpalo po ng fourth quarter, bigla na namang tataas po ‘yan. So ‘yan ‘yung usual trend natin. So far, tumataas po. Maganda po yung data natin (“When the fourth quarter comes, it will suddenly rise again. That’s our usual trend. So far, it’s increasing. Our data looks good,” she said.

Asked which countries account for the largest number of visitors, Sandoval said the top five for 2025 remain largely unchanged from previous years.

Based on available data, she said the number one for 2026 remains South Korean, followed by Americans, then Canadians, Japanese, and Chinese. She noted that the same nationalities consistently appear as top visitors year after year, but the Department of Tourism is actively exploring new markets.

SHOWBIZ

Comedy, pain, and the fragile search for

By Nickie Wang

THE themes

Love, Ngo tackles are quite controversial at the outset. During the opening credits, a disclaimer clearly states that it does not intend to mock or discriminate against people with cleft palate conditions.

‘Love, Ngo’ follows the story of Ngo, played by Jerald Napoles, a young man learning to accept himself while facing love and rejection

of whether social stigma is always as externally enforced as it feels to those experiencing it

.That framing, however, leans toward an optimistic interpretation that does not always align with real-world experiences of discrimination.

The film appears intent on highlighting emotional resilience

That note also serves as a guide for how the film approaches its subject matter, though the balance between intention and execution shifts throughout.

Directed by Darryl Yap, the film is a prequel to the commercially successful Ang Babaeng Walang Pakiramdam . It follows Ngo (Jerald Napoles ), a young man with a cleft palate who divides his time between helping at his mother’s burger stand and volunteering at the Kanguso Foundation, which supports people with similar conditions.

At the foundation, Ngo meets Scarlet (Louise Delos Reyes ), and they begin a relationship

Taylor

TAYLOR Swift on Thursday became the youngest woman ever inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, adding another milestone to the 36-year-old US pop star’s record-breaking career.

The previous female record-holder was Carole Bayer Sager, who was 43 when inducted in 1987. Stevie Wonder remains the youngest inductee overall, at 32 in 1983.

Artists become eligible 20 years after their first commercial release. For Swift, that was “Tim McGraw,” released in June 2006.

Since then, she has released 12 albums spanning country, pop and folk, earning 14 Grammy Awards, including a record four Album of the Year wins.

The Hall of Fame praised Swift’s ability to “shapeshift as a songwriter,” moving across genres while maintaining strong storytelling and artistic risk-taking.

that quickly grows serious. His friends support him as he enters early courtship, but conflict arises when Scarlet’s family rejects him because of his condition and social status.

The tension escalates into violence involving Scarlet’s brothers, leaving Ngo shaken and withdrawn. Scarlet later urges him to step back and focus on self-acceptance before pursuing the relationship further.

A central idea in the film is perception versus reality. It suggests that much of Ngo’s struggle comes from internalized fear of judgment, while those around him are more accepting than he expects. The film raises the question

Swift appeared at the New York ceremony in a strapless black floral dress.

Also inducted Thursday were KISS members

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, who told AFP it “doesn’t suck” to join the ranks and that the honor was “hard to digest.”

Kenny Loggins, known for hits like “Footloose” and “Danger Zone,” also joined the Hall, calling it “a great honor” and a culmination of his career.

Alanis Morissette and producer Walter Afanasieff were among nine inductees this year.

Swift’s global sales are estimated at over 250 million album-equivalents, boosted by her 2023–2024 Eras Tour, which grossed around $2 billion.

She also holds the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 top 10 entries among female artists and remains highly visible in media, recently appearing at Madison Square Garden for an NBA Finals game. AFP

and self-love, even if it simplifies how prejudice operates in everyday life.

Despite its dramatic turns and the director’s familiar raunchy comedic style, humor is used here as a tool to address discomfort, judgment, and acceptance.

Performances are among the film’s strongest elements. Napoles gives a natural, believable portrayal of Ngo, especially when he switches between humor and more vulnerable moments.

Supporting actors Candy Pangilinan and Gina Alajar , even with limited screen time, help strengthen key moments in the story. Meanwhile, social media personality Malupiton also leaves a strong impression.

Love, Ngo aims for warmth and uplift, though its idea of acceptance occasionally feels idealized rather than fully anchored in real-life experience. Then again, films often mirror real life, and if perhaps we would all be in a better place.

FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, the ABS-CBN action drama led by Coco Martin, is now available in 41 countries across Africa as its international rollout continues. The series, known in some markets as “Gangs of Manila,” is being carried on StarTimes and is available in English, Portuguese, and French. The show follows the story of Tanggol, played by Martin, and continues to generate online engagement through clips posted on StarTimes’ social media platforms.

Book four covers the final phase of the character’s storyline, in which Tanggol seeks to restore order in the city as mayor. The Africa distribution comes as Martin prepares for a return to primetime in a new action-romance series with Julia Montes

The series concluded its run with several wins at the Philippine Arts, Film and Television Awards, including Best Drama Series and Best Drama Actor for Martin, and Best Breakthrough Performance for Maris Racal

ABS-CBN has sold more than 50,000 hours of content to over 50 countries as it continues expanding distribution across broadcast, streaming, and digital platforms.

By Nickie Wang

YOUNG singer Isha Ponti is opening a door into her world, and she invites listeners to step in and stay awhile. Her new album LIKAS feels like a personal map of emotions. The title stands for Longing, Illusion, Kindness, Acceptance, and Self-love, which serve as five themes that shape the record from start to finish.

Isha wrote all her own songs. She worked with musical director and producer Adonis Tabanda, who helped her build arrangements that sit comfortably within contemporary OPM.

The album carries 10 tracks: “Darating,” “Numero,” “Hinga,” “Kabanata,” “Halika,” “Warmth,” “Gulong,” “Bakas,” “Riversky,” and “Mismo.” Taken together, the titles feel like pages from a journal, each one pointing to a different moment or emotional state.

One track already getting early attention

is “Kabanata.” It has started circulating on streaming platforms and Philippine radio, connecting with listeners through its storytelling and familiar emotional themes.

“With platforms like Spotify expanding the reach of Filipino music, more artists like me are finding space for songs that do not rely on instant hooks but on connections that build over time.

That’s how I see this song,” Isha said during the album’s official launch.

As part of this shift, Isha’s songwriting tends to focus on shaping personal experiences into structured musical stories.

“I think my songs have clear intentions since they come from my own experiences,” she added.

To mark the release of LIKAS, an album launch event titled Isha Ponti: LIKAS is happening on June 20 at VIVA Cafe. The evening will include live performances and storytelling moments, with musical direction by Adonis Tabanda.

SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026

C4 LIFE

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Users

New

tool lets cardholders split eligible purchases into fixed monthly payments

A NEW credit card feature allows users to convert eligible posted purchases into fixed monthly installments after the transaction has been made.

Big-ticket purchases such as travel, gadgets, or home upgrades can now be paid in smaller monthly installments through a new feature from Maya.

Maya, the country’s leading digital bank and all-in-one fintech platform, has launched Mini Payments, a facility that allows eligible credit cardholders to convert posted purchases into monthly installments within the Maya app.

The feature is available to holders of the Maya Black Credit Card and Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card.

Unlike traditional installment programs tied to specific merchants or promotional periods, Mini Payments allows users to convert eligible purchases after they have already been made. Cardholders can split qualifying transactions into 3, 6, 9, or 12 monthly payments at a fixed 1 percent monthly interest rate, regardless of term. Approval may be granted within 24 hours, with payment schedules and balances viewable in the app. To qualify, converted amounts must meet minimum thresholds of P3,000 for 3 months, P6,000 for 6 months, P9,000 for 9 months, and P12,000 for 12 months. Multiple eligible purchases may be combined, provided the total meets the required amount for the selected plan. For a limited time, Mini Payments conversions made until Sept. 30, will have no processing fees.

To use the feature, cardholders open the app, go to credit card transactions, select an eligible posted purchase, choose a payment term, and review the breakdown before confirming.

The app shows monthly amortization, total interest, and payment schedules before approval. More information is available at maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Maya Philippines Inc. and Maya Bank Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Venue for future champions

SM Supermalls supports youth development via the Philippines’ largest bowling network

By Nickie Wang

EVERY champion starts somewhere, and for dozens of young bowlers, that journey played out at the Learn to Bowl Culminating Day, and the first-ever PBF Youth Cup National Finals held May 31 at SM North EDSA Bowling Center.

The event brought together aspiring athletes, parents, coaches, and bowling fans in a day that moved from basic skill-building to nationallevel competition, underscoring how early training can lead to competitive opportunity.

SM Supermalls said the program is meant to support athletes at different stages of development.

“We want to be part of an athlete’s journey from day one to the day they become champions,” said Joseph Francis Silva, senior assistant vice president for sports and leisure at SM Supermalls. “We are committed to providing spaces and programs where they can develop their skills and experience competition.”

The day opened with the culmination of the Learn to Bowl program, where young participants demonstrated basic techniques they had learned over several weeks. The training covered grip, stance, swing, release, and follow-through, while also focusing on confidence-building and discipline.

Bowling legend Olivia “Bong” Coo joined the session, offering guidance and sharing experience with the participants as they took

their first competitive steps.

The program was followed by the PBF Youth Cup National Finals, organized in partnership with the Philippine Bowling Federation. The tournament featured top youth bowlers from across the country who advanced through qualifying rounds held in SM bowling centers nationwide.

The finals capped months of preparation, with athletes earning their spots through center and regional competitions that tested consistency and discipline.

In the 16-and-under division, Caleb Littaua won the boys’ title, while Eleana Lois Arabit topped the girls’ category. Chivas Guevarra and Sarah Elise Yamsuan placed second, while Jairo James Agudo finished third in the boys’ division.

In the 17–21 division, Hansel Alexandrian Ilagan claimed the boys’ championship, and Nuela Surla won the girls’ title. Michael Aguilar Jr. and Izef Syesha Tipones finished second in their respective categories, while Yeshuachim Borricano and Nicole Cardino completed the podium.

Organizers said the combined

Honoring the spirit of freedom

AS the Philippines marks its 128th Independence Day, celebrations are taking on different forms across the country, with one campaign paying tribute to the perseverance and hard work of everyday Filipinos. Among them is a campaign that honors the enduring spirit of freedom through themed cocktails inspired by regional flavors and a film recognizing the resilience that has shaped generations of Filipinos.

The campaign, dubbed “Tagay ng Kalayaan,” included special cocktail menus and game nights on June 12 at Alamat Filipino Cuisine and Polilya | Craft Beer and Cocktails in Poblacion, Makati.

Both establishments will serve drinks made with Tanduay rums, including Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, and Especia Spiced Rum.

“’Tagay ng Kalayaan’ is our way of recognizing and honoring the everyday struggles of the Filipino, those who continue to get up and work every day, pushing forward despite the obstacles they meet along the way. Your sacrifices for your family and the country have made our freedom more meaningful, and we offer this Tagay Tanduay to you,” said Tanduay brand manager Gem Leonard Boy

program highlights bowling as both a recreational activity and a pathway for developing discipline, focus and sportsmanship among young athletes.

SM Sports & Leisure Centers said the initiative is part of its broader effort to expand access to sports programs and facilities through its bowling centers and related venues.

“Champions are not born on finals day,” Silva said. “They are built through training, consistency, and opportunities to grow.”

The program also forms part of SM Active Hub’s wider push to encourage physical activity through sports such as pickleball, skating, archery, and martial arts across SM locations.

The cocktails draw inspiration from flavors associated with different parts of the country. At Alamat, guests can try the Luzon Colada, featuring strawberry and bibingka flavors; the Visayas Daiquiri, made with mango and pineapple notes; and the Mindanao Mule, combining calamansi and ginger.

Polilya’s menu includes Kapitolyo Dream, infused with jackfruit; Siesta Queen, which combines mango infusion and pineapple jam; and Cotabato Fire, made with durian jam, ginger, and chili

Tanduay also released an online film on June 12 across its YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. The film pays tribute to generations of Filipinos whose perseverance has helped shape the nation’s history and preserve its freedoms.

“Tagay ng Kalayaan” is part of the company’s Independence Day activities, which focus on

recognizing the efforts of ordinary Filipinos who continue to work and provide for their families despite daily challenges.

Founded in 1854, Tanduay traces its roots to Manila and has grown into one of the country’s best-known spirits brands. The company says the campaign is intended as a gesture of appreciation to Filipinos whose support has contributed to its growth over the decades.

“As we celebrate Independence Day, we encourage Filipinos to keep going. Tanduay is with you in your journey. The ‘Tagay ng Kalayaan’ campaign is also an opportunity for us to express our gratitude to all of you, to give back the support that you have given us throughout the decades. We owe our success to you, and you can count on us to stay true to our commitment of providing quality and innovative products that reflect our Filipino roots,” Boy said.