Manila Standard - 2026 June 19 - Friday

US, IRAN PRESIDENTS SIGN DEAL ENDING MIDDLE EAST WAR

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump and Iran’s president signed a deal Wednesday meant to end the Middle East war, with Tehran agreeing to dilute its enriched uranium in return for large-scale economic relief.

Trump signed the memorandum of understanding during a candlelit dinner at the Palace of Versailles following a G7 summit, as host French President Emmanuel Macron and other guests applauded, a video posted by a Trump aide showed.

“Just signed it,” Trump told reporters as he emerged from the palace.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, quoted by the state news agency IRNA, said the document “was finalized

with the signatures of the presidents.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, which mediated the agreement, said on X that it “shall enter into force with immediate effect.”

The deal aims to draw a line under the war launched February 28 by the United States and Israel, prompting Iran to counterattack with missile and drone salvos across the region—and effectively shutting down the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for the world economy.

The US responded by blocking shipping to and from Iranian ports. “As a first step, Islamic Republic of Iran

By Pot Chavez and Charles Dantes

THE National Bureau of Investigation

(NBI) has not yet received any information on the alleged issuance of a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Senator Chris-

Two-thirds vote issue

By Joel E. Zurbano,

TCruz

DONE DEAL. US President Donald Trump and Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, in separate venues, show the signed memorandum of understanding to end the Middle East war. AFP

topher Lawrence “Bong” Go. In an interview with Super Radyo dzBB on Thursday, NBI Director Melvin Matibag categorically denied the claims of Davao City Rep. Paolo ‘Pulong’ Duterte regarding this development.

PBBM calls for stronger ASEAN-Russia relations

By Charles Dantes

(ASEAN)

sides to expand cooperation on regional security, trade, and investment despite an increasingly uncertain global geopolitical environment. Speaking as co-chair of the ASE -

AN-Russia Commemorative Summit alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, President Marcos said cooperation, not confrontation, should remain the guiding principle of the 35-

By Maricel Cruz

A HUMAN rights lawyer has dismissed as “unbelievable” allegations of former bodyguards of resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co that they delivered more than P805 billion in flood control funds to former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. In a radio interview, lawyer Antonio Zoleta Bucoy said the ex-soldiers narrative “fails the test of plausibility or the likelihood that their story is true.”

Pinoys skeptical about impeach trial outcome

By Ma. Katrina Mikaela

He said P805 billion weighs about 800 metric tons, which would require a cargo truck, a crane or a backhoe to

Pag-IBIG Fund offers promo

home loan rates

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program continues to make homeownership more affordable for Filipino workers as state-run Pag-IBIG Fund offers promotional housing loan rates for members buying homes above the socialized housing price ceiling up to P10 million. In a statement, Pag-IBIG Fund said the new promotional rates build on its earlier move to increase its maximum housing loan amount to P10 million per borrower, giving members more financing options for homes that better match

haul it, instead of vans as the former Marines had claimed.

“What they’re saying is impossible. First of all, it is full of holes. According to experts, P800 billion weighs 800 metric tons,” Bucoy asserted in Filipino.

“How can you transport 800 metric tons? You would need a crane or a backhoe to load it. And simple vehicles would not do. You will need a cargo truck to move it,” he added. Bucoy also noted another blunder in the narrative of the ex-Marines, also referred to as “Maleta Boys,” who

year partnership between ASEAN and Russia.

“In an era of deepening geopolitical uncertainty, the value of steady political and security engagement between ASEAN and Russia cannot be overstated,” Mr. Marcos told regional leaders gathered in Kazan.

In a press briefing after the Summit, the President said ASEAN and Russia agreed on the following:

- Greater engagement among ASEAN, the Eurasian Economic Union, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

- An ASEAN-Russia Comprehensive Plan of Action

- Expansion of Russian exports of high-value added products such as fertilizers, medicines, food and energy supplies, and - Cooperation with Russia’s Rosatom on nuclear energy.

The Summit also issued the Kazan Declaration 2026 and Joint Statements on Cultural and energy Cooperation.

During their bilateral meeting earlier, Mr. Marcos thanked Putin and the Russian government for hosting the Philippine delegation and representatives from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), noting that Russia’s hospitality came as the Philippines serves as ASEAN chair this year.

The Philippine leader described the anniversary of bilateral ties as a significant milestone and welcomed initiatives by both countries’ embassies, including commemorative activities and a photo exhibition held in Moscow celebrating five decades of diplomatic relations.

“We hope to continue our regular political consultations between our foreign ministries,” President Marcos said, adding that such engagements provide opportunities to identify new areas of cooperation.

The President also formally invited Putin to attend the 21st East Asia Summit, scheduled to be held in Manila in November.

He said the summit remains an important platform for maintaining a stable, secure and prosperous regional order.

On economic relations, President Marcos said the Philippines seeks to broaden trade and investment ties with Russia, arguing that current trade levels do not reflect the full potential of the bilateral relationship.

The Philippine president said ASEAN and Russia should intensify cooperation against transnational threats, including terrorism, cybercrime, illicit trafficking and online scams, while strengthening maritime security and counterterrorism initiatives.

The president also pressed for a more ambitious economic partnership, saying bilateral trade and investment have yet to realize their full potential.

“We must be more deliberate and more ambitious in expanding economic opportunities, improving trade facilitation, deepening investment flows, and connecting our business communities,” he said.

Mr. Marcos identified food and energy security as key priorities, adding that economic cooperation should also create greater opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises and support emerging industries expected to drive future growth.

Beyond economic and security issues, President Marcos emphasized the importance of expanding educational, cultural and tourism exchanges, saying stronger people-to-people ties would sustain the partnership beyond government agreements.

This despite Senator Jinggoy Estrada being placed under a 90-day preventive suspension and Senator Bato dela Rosa still in hiding amid a standing arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.

“In my opinion, the Constitution is clear -- two-thirds of all members, so that is 16. So in my opinion, we have to follow the Constitution,” Gatchalian said in a press conference on Thursday.

“I will uphold what’s written in the Constitution,” he said.

Gatchalian, however, admitted that the final decision will still depend on what the senator-judges will discuss and what the prosecutors and other relevant parties have to say.

House lead prosecutor Batangas Rep.

Gerville Luistro has said questions over the number of votes required to convict the Vice President should not delay the im-

peachment trial, saying the issue will only become critical when the Senate impeachment court is ready to render a verdict.

Luistro said the trial is expected to run for several months, giving senator-judges ample time to address the matter before voting on the case.

“This trial will be a long one. I estimate it will last until the end of September,” she said.

She said the issue primarily concerns Senate procedure and will ultimately fall within the chamber’s constitutional authority to govern its own affairs.

Article XI, Section 3(6) of the 1987 Constitution states unequivocally that no person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds of all the members of the Senate.

Yesterday’s pre-trial conference had tense moments as both the defense and prosecution teams made stipulations to simplify the proceedings.

Some House prosecutors, including Luistro and Mamamayang Liberal Rep.

Oscar Albayalde, Isidro Lapeña. Former NBI Director Dante Gierran and former justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre were also named in the document.

“Wala pa po, wala po kami na-rereceive pa. Walang communication pa ng warrant. Hindi ko po alam saan nanggagaling si Congressman Pulong Duterte, kung anong warrant po ‘yong sinasabi niya, pero officially wala pa pong communication sa amin sa NBI,” Matibag said.

(None yet. We have not received any communication on such warrant. I do not know where Congressman Pulong Duterte is coming from, what warrant was he talking about, but officially there was no communication yet to us in the NBI.)

Duterte said that warrants have been issued against Go and two former police officials.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla also denied the alleged warrant, noting that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has not received official communication on this matter.

Earlier this year, the Office of the Prosecutor named Go and Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa as co-perpetrators in the crimes against humanity case versus former President Rodrigo Duterte before the ICC.

Other individuals identified as indirect co-perpetrators were former PNP officials Vicente Danao, Camilo Cascolan,

ICC not ‘weaponized’ Malacañang likewise rejected Duterte’s claims that the administration is weaponizing the ICC proceedings, arguing that the case originated from complaints filed by Filipinos years before President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. took office.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the complainants are seeking accountability over alleged extrajudicial killings, dismissing allegations that the Marcos administration was using the international tribunal for political purposes.

“Unang-una alam naman natin ‘yung ICC korte ito. At meron namang kaso, may kaso na kapwa nating Pilipino ang nagsampa laban sa mga diumanong pang-aabuso patungkol sa EJK,” Castro said in a video statement in Kazan, Russia.

(First of all, we all know that the ICC is a court. And there is a case, a case filed by our fellow Filipinos regarding the alleged abuses related to EJK.)

Castro said any warrant issued by the ICC would remain valid if lawfully issued, adding that the complainants’ objective was to hold those responsible accountable. She said it was unfair to

Leila de Lima, left the Recto Room at the Senate where the pre-trial conference was being held to meet in another room.

Private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan, asked about the tensions, said in jest she has a short temper as she was on her monthly period.

But according to Michael Poa, Duterte’s legal counsel, they were still able to reach a “good resolution” with their prosecution counterparts.

“We were able to reach a good resolution. So, of course, we’d like to thank also the prosecution panel. We had good agreements and we were able to hasten the process,” Poa said.

Both sides agreed to submit comments on proposed stipulations by Monday.

The meeting was presided over by Senate Secretary and Clerk of Court Renato Bantug Jr.

Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Alfred Corpus underscored the importance of implementing suitable measures to safeguard the Senate, its officials and

blame the current administration for proceedings that began years earlier.

“Huwag nating kalimutan na yung kaso na sampa ito 2017 pa. So, hindi ito wine-weaponize, kinakailangan lamang po na matugunan din ang hiling ng mga kababayan natin,” she said. (Let us not forget that this case was filed in 2017. So, it is not being weaponized. It is just necessary that the request of our countrymen be addressed.)

She added that accountability should prevail where warranted, while those found innocent should have their names cleared.

Castro also accused critics of repeatedly invoking the ICC issue to stir public anger and frame the debate around Philippine sovereignty.

She pointed to Republic Act No. 9851, or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity, saying the law contains provisions allowing the Philippines to surrender respondents under certain circumstances.

“Huwag nating kalimutan po ‘yan (Let us not forget that),” Castro said.

Asked whether President Marcos had issued instructions or whether the administration had discussed contingency plans over a possible arrest of another senator in connection with the ICC investigation, Castro declined to elaborate.

employees, as well as all individuals who may be impacted by activities related to the trial.

“By working together and maintaining close coordination, we can effectively address emerging challenges and ensure a secure environment for all concerned,” he said.

In addition to selecting a Presiding Officer, the impeachment court may appoint an Impeachment Manager to facilitate the orderly conduct of the proceedings, Senator Ping Lacson said.

“We are studying appointing an Impeachment Manager to quarterback the proceedings especially if the Presiding Officer is overwhelmed. The Impeachment Manager’s role would be similar to that of the Majority Leader,” he said. Lacson said while the majority bloc is eyeing Senator Francis Escudero as Presiding Officer, it is also considering Senator Francis Pangilinan as Impeachment Manager. Both Escudero and Pangilinan are lawyers.

claimed that they delivered the money to Romualdez’s house on McKinley Road, Forbes, Makati. He said at the time of the alleged delivery, the house was under construction or renovation because it was earlier razed by a fire. There were between 100 and 150 workers at the time, but there was no caretaker to receive such staggering amount of cash, Bucoy said.

He also noted that the ex-soldiers also claimed to have made a delivery at another house in South Forbes, which Romualdez does not own.

“Second of all, they also said they delivered to another house of the Speaker in South Forbes. But he maintained he has no house there,” Bucoy said. He emphasized that another incredible part of the former Marine’s yarn was that they supposedly made another delivery to a house in Malacanang.

He likewise noted that the former soldiers initially included Sen. Loren Legarda and former Justice Secretary-turned-Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima in their supposed list of recipients of flood control project kickbacks, but that they later delisted them, admitting they erred.

Region registered the lowest at 25% and 18% respectively.

will instantly reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the United States of America will immediately lift the naval blockade,” Sharif wrote. Under the text, Washington also commits to immediately waive oil sanctions crippling Iran’s economy.

Once a final agreement is reached on the Islamic republic’s nuclear program, the United States will also facilitate the release of a $300 billion reconstruction fund supported by regional nations, the deal says.

The agreement had earlier been slated for signatures by Iran’s chief negotiator and parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and US Vice President JD Vance. Iran said an in-person ceremony was no longer needed.

their needs, income and family situation. Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund chairman Jose Ramon Aliling said the promotional rates form part of Pag-IBIG Fund’s continuing efforts under the Marcos administration’s Expanded 4PH Program, which has widened access to affordable home financing, revitalized the housing industry, and continues to help more Filipino families achieve homeownership.

“We continue to heed the directive of President Marcos to make decent and

But Sharif said an official ceremony will take place Friday in Switzerland and technical talks will commence.

‘Great victory’ Iran insisted the deal represented a US “failure.”

“People will see it and judge,” Ghalibaf said on state television late Wednesday, after both sides released the text.

Highlighting the global impact of any deal, China said Wednesday that its top diplomat impressed upon Tehran that it was “key” for all sides to “genuinely implement” their commitments.

But Trump’s decision to pull the plug on the war, in which 13 US service members were killed and vast amounts of US ammunition stockpiles were used up, has unsettled some of his own allies at home.

The agreement is only a temporary arrangement meant to give time for starting detailed negotiations on the

By socioeconomic class, belief that senators would decide primarily based on evidence and the law is highest among Class E respondents at 31%, followed by Class D at 18% and Class ABC at 13%.

OCTA noted these results suggest perceptions of the Senate’s decision-making vary across socioeconomic groups and may reflect different lev-

In contrast, belief that most senators would decide primarily based on evidence and the law is highest in NCR (25%), followed by Balance Luzon (22%) and Visayas (20%), while it is lowest in Mindanao, where only 12% hold this view.

affordable homes more accessible to Filipino families,” Aliling said.

“Under Expanded 4PH, Pag-IBIG Fund has made socialized housing more affordable for low-income earners through our three percent subsidized housing loan rate for eligible socialized housing borrowers. We then increased our housing loan limit to P10 million per borrower to give more members, particularly those in the middle class, a better opportunity to choose a home that matches their needs and capacity,” the statement read.

“Now, through these promotional rates, we are making those housing options even more affordable so more Filipino workers can take the next step

far more complex issue of long-term control over Iran’s nuclear power ambitions, which Washington has long suspected of harboring a secret bomb-making program.

Trump said earlier Wednesday that he was prepared to “bomb the hell” out of Iran if they violated the agreement.

But US Senator Bill Cassidy from Trump’s own Republican Party was scathing.

“Iran’s nuclear ambitions were not curbed, and they have learned that threatening the Strait of Hormuz works,” he said. “Sanctions will be lifted, and the bombing has stopped. This is the worst foreign policy blunder in decades.”

The head of the pro-Tehran Lebanese Shiite movement Hezbollah, Naim Qassem, described the deal on Wednesday as a “great victory” for Iran.

He thanked Tehran for insisting that

els of political engagement, trust, and alignment.

Conducted before the Senate trial started, the findings serve as an important baseline for public expectations about the fairness, impartiality, and legitimacy of the impeachment process, OCTA said.

The research group also said most Filipinos have not yet formed firm opinions on how senators will fulfill their constitutional duties as impeachment judges. The face-to-face survey was conducted from April 20 to 24, with 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above.

toward owning a home,” it added.

Under the promotional rates, housing loan or installment amounts above the socialized housing price ceiling, currently up to P950,000 for house-and-lot units and up to P1.8 million for condominium units, and up to the low-cost housing ceiling of P2.5 million shall have an interest rate of 4.5 percent per annum, fixed for three years.

Meanwhile, housing loan or installment amounts above the P2.5 million low-cost housing ceiling up to P10 million shall have an interest rate of 5.75 percent per annum, also fixed for three years. After the three-year fixed period, the loan shall be repriced based on the borrower’s chosen repricing period. Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Marilene Acosta said the lower rates

the truce cover Lebanon, which was drawn into the conflict when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel on March 2 in support of Iran.

Negotiations to begin

A two-month negotiating period now begins, with the much-anticipated reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as the first step.

Under the terms of the deal released by US officials, Iran will dilute its enriched uranium stocks, possibly by “down-blending on site under the supervision of the IAEA”—the UN’s nuclear watchdog. This would lead to more far-reaching economic assistance for Iran.

But a US official said Washington would not be required to contribute financially.

Oil prices tumbled in recent days as optimism grew for a lasting Middle East peace agreement, but they re-

The survey has a ±3% margin of error at a 95% confidence level. Subnational estimates for the geographic areas covered have the following margins of error at a 95% confidence level: ±6% for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

will be felt directly by members through reduced monthly amortizations, especially during the first three years of their housing loan. For example, a P2.5 million loan payable over 30 years will have an estimated monthly amortization of about P12,667 under the new 4.5 percent promotional rate, compared to about P15,393 under the previous 6.25 percent rate, or savings of around P2,726 per month. Meanwhile, a P10 million loan payable over 30 years will have an estimated monthly amortization of about P58,357 under the new 5.75 percent promotional rate, compared to about P61,572 under the previous 6.25 percent rate, or savings of around P3,215 per month.

versed course on Wednesday. Prices briefly jumped five percent as uncertainty spread about the signing, before stabilizing later in the day.

Lebanese front While violence declined in Lebanon following the announcement of the deal, Israeli strikes on the south have killed at least five people since then, according to state media, which also reported Israeli raids on south Lebanon on Wednesday.

Israel’s army said five soldiers were wounded on Wednesday, one of them severely, “as a result of an explosive drone impact in southern Lebanon,” the first such announcement since the USIran deal.

The Israeli military also said its air force intercepted “several rockets” launched toward soldiers operating in south Lebanon, without reporting casualties. AFP

Senate preps for priority bills, impeachment

By Joel E. Zurbano

NEWLY elected

Senate President

Sherwin Gatchalian presented a “back-to-work” agenda during his first press conference on Thursday, highlighting the need for senators to accelerate priority legislation and prepare for Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.

Gatchalian said the Senate will focus on measures identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), along with priority proposals from individual senators.

“First and foremost, I want to announce that SenateFlix is over. We are back to work. In the coming weeks, we will outline the LEDAC bills that need to be completed. We will also prepare for the impeachment on July 6,” he said. He said he has reached out to colleagues, including members of the minority bloc—Senators Christopher Lawrence Go, Imee Marcos, Loren Legarda, and Pia Cayetano—to discuss their legislative priorities and establish a unified direction for the chamber.

Gatchalian said the Senate deadlock has ended and lawmakers are eager to resume their work.

Separately, Senator Panfilo Lacson said the government spent at least P700 million in taxpayers’ money during a 28-day period in which the Senate failed to conduct legislative work.

The period included a shooting incident inside the Senate building shortly after Senator Alan Peter Cayetano became Senate president, as well as the escape of Senator Ronald dela Rosa while under the chamber’s “protective custody.”

Lacson said the 28 days also saw a session boycott by the Cayetano-led bloc, which became the minority after Senator Francis Escudero joined the majority that formed a quorum and elected Gatchalian acting Senate president on June 3. He also cited a failed destabilization attempt and unauthorized committee hearings, including one that no senator attended.

LPA outside PAR may develop into tropical depression

By Rio N. Araja

A LOW-PRESSURE area (LPA) outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility is likely to develop into a tropical depression.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the weather disturbance has an even chance of becoming a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.

As of Thursday, the LPA was located about 2,430 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas.

The weather bureau said the system could intensify into a tropical cyclone while still outside PAR.

“As of now, it is not directly affecting any part of the Philippines,” weather specialist Leanne Loreto said.

Once the LPA develops into a tropical depression and enters PAR, it will be given the local name “Francisco.”

PAGASA said the weather system is unlikely to make landfall in the country but could enhance the southwest monsoon by Sunday or Monday.

Ateneo student council calls for justice, walkout

By Vince Lopez

THE student council of Ateneo de Manila University’s (ADMU) Loyola Schools has called for a walkout on Friday, urging students, faculty, and staff to demand justice, accountability, and answers following the deaths of two members of the Ateneo community.

In a Facebook post, the Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral ng mga Paaralang

Loyola ng Ateneo de Manila announced the planned walkout in honor of ADMU basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, whose deaths have prompted grief and calls for institutional accountability.

“On Friday, we walk out for Rene and Divine,” the student council said.

“Amid our collective grief, the Ateneo is in a great period of reckoning. As the community and the loved ones of Rene and Divine reel from this insur-

mountable loss, it is incumbent on this institution to face accountability in all forms and subject itself to the calls for renewal from the broader community to which it is answerable.”

The council said key questions surrounding the incident remain unresolved.

“As we continue to grieve the tragic loss of our fellow Ateneans, questions remain unanswered, and justice remains out of reach,” it said.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla on Thursday said the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group’s probe into the deaths of two Ateneo de Manila University basketball players is nearing completion.

Remulla said investigators have obtained most of the statements needed to shed light on the deaths of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

“They subpoenaed the players, accompanied by several parents and an assistant coach. We are still gathering the facts. They were treated properly. I asked the parents and lawyers if there had been any aggressive questioning or if they felt uncomfortable. All the players agreed that the proceedings were fair,” he said.

“The lawyers have no complaints, and neither do the parents. However, the report is not yet complete. The coaches have been subpoenaed for tomorrow, and by Tuesday we expect to submit our full report to the Department of Justice,” Remulla added.

The Interior secretary said the CIDG has already established a detailed timeline of events leading up to the drowning incident, including decisions related to the team-building activity, who could swim, and when coaches arrived at the site.

drill under Exercise Kasangga in

defense capabilities.

Meta unveils teen online safety features

META on Thursday formally launched revamped safety features for minors across its social media platforms and rolled out the Screen Smart digital literacy program to help educate the public on online safety tools.

During a launch event at Fairmont Makati, Meta Asia Pacific Head of Safety Policy Malina Enlund said the new features represent the company’s contribution to the Philippines’ digital safety agenda.

“The initiative responds to growing demand among families, educators, and policymakers for practical approaches to protecting young people online,” Enlund said.

Among the new measures is the updated Instagram Teen Account, which limits the content users aged 13 and above can view and engage with.

“These revamped settings build on the protections already in Teen Accounts, which are automatically enabled for users aged 13 to 17. Parents of teens under 16 can decide whether their children may change any settings to make them less strict,” she said. Under the updated system, teens must approve new followers before their content can be viewed. They can receive messages only from people they follow or are connected to, and they may only be tagged or mentioned by those they follow.

Parents can also set daily time limits on app use, while a new “sleep mode” feature mutes notifications overnight and sends automatic replies to direct messages.

IN BRIEF

PNP steps up crackdown on impersonation scams

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday stepped up operations against individuals posing as Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials in earthquake-hit areas of Mindanao to collect money through scams.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered intensified police visibility and coordinated operations following reports that scammers have been exploiting disaster-stricken communities by pretending to be government inspectors and project evaluators.

“There is a special place in hell for these people who take advantage of the situation in Mindanao for their personal gains. But right now, our focus is to identify all of them and haul them off to jail,” Nartatez said. Vince Lopez

PH elected to UNESCO cultural heritage panel

THE Philippines was elected to UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage on Wednesday, securing a seat on the body tasked with protecting cultural traditions, indigenous knowledge, and other forms of living heritage.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Philippines received 106 votes, or 67.1%, from 156 UNESCO member states during the election.

“Our election to this important committee demonstrates how the world community of nations has always held our country in high esteem,” Philippine Ambassador to France and UNESCO Delegate Eduardo Jose de Vega said. Katrina Manubay Solon seeks mandatory Rizal courses at schools

A BILL making the study of Jose Rizal’s life, works, and writings mandatory across all educational tiers from basic schooling to higher education was reintroduced on Thursday by Senator Robin Padilla. Senate Bill 606 seeks to amend Republic Act 1425, or the Rizal Law, to make lessons about the national hero more relevant, meaningful, and accessible to modern Filipino youth.

The measure requires public and private schools, colleges, and universities to integrate courses on Rizal’s legacy, including his novels “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” into their curricula. Lessons for younger students must be age-appropriate and aligned with Department of Education standards.

“It is not enough for the youth to know Rizal only as a face on money or the name of a park. They must understand why he fought, why he wrote, and why his teachings are still important in this day and age,” Padilla said. Ram Superable

DPWH: Report bad infra projects

IN BRIEF

Five peddlers collared for selling expired food

FIVE vendors were arrested on Wednesday evening in an operation ordered by Manila Mayor Franciso Moreno Domagoso following reports that expired food products were being sold with impunity in the vicinity of Quiapo, Manila.

The operatives swooped down on Villalobos and Palanca streets Quiapo, Manila to validate the reports filed by concerned citizens who charged that the unscrupulous vendors pose a risk to public health.

Subsequent examinations disclosed that the expiry dates on the seized items were tampered to deceive the consumers.

Confiscated in the operation were a variety of expired merchandise with an estimated value of ₱950,000, as well as three pieces of tampering devices believed used to tamper the labels. Vince Lopez

DSWD extends relief to victims of 7.8 quake

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) spearheaded psychosocial activities for children, women, and other vulnerable sectors affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the province of Sarangani last June 8.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian underscored the importance of providing not only food and water, but also delivering psychosocial support to help the affected families overcome the trauma of the disaster.

“In Glan, Sarangani, DSWD Field Office 12 and partner agencies conducted child-friendly activities for 20 child evacuees to help them process their feelings, reduce stress, and regain a sense of security despite what they have been through,” Gatchalian said.

As of June 18, the DSWD’s Angels in Red Vests were able to serve a total of 168 beneficiaries within child-friendly spaces and have provided psychological first aid to 74 individuals through play therapy, art sessions and other interactive activities. Maricel V. Cruz

NBI Mindoro raid nets 3 chainsaws, 2 suspects

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has commended the National Bureau of Investigation for its successful operation against the illegal sale of chainsaws in Pinamalayan, Or. Mindoro calling it a “critical step in protecting the forests and strengthening the country’s climate resilience.”

“The enforcement action, carried out on June 9, supports the DENR’s intensified campaign against illegal logging and complements the ongoing initiatives of DENRMIMAROPA Regional Executive Director Felix Mirasol, who has been pushing for stronger multi-agency coordination to curb forest degradation across the region,” the agency said in a statement.

“We thank the NBI for standing with us. Protecting our forests is not just an environmental duty—it is a climate and public safety imperative,” DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said. The operation led to the arrest of traders Matt Jefferson Go and Miriam Go and the seizure of three high-powered chainsaws.

Solon cites Senate okay on UAQTEA measure

By Maricel V. Cruz

A HOUSE leader on Thursday welcomed the Senate’s ratification of the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, saying the measure has moved closer to enactment and to delivering more targeted support for poor and vulnerable learners.

House Committee on Higher and Technical Education chairperson and TINGOG Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said the proposed UAQTEA Amend-

ments Act strengthens Republic Act No. 10931, or the Free Higher Education Law, by helping ensure that government support reaches students who need it most. Acidre served as principal author and sponsor of the measure in the House.

“This is a meaningful step forward for Filipino students and their families. It brings us closer to a higher education system that gives greater priority to those who have less in life, and greater support to those who struggle the most to stay in school,” Acidre said. The proposed amendments seek to

Navy monitors Chinese rockets flying over PH

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Navy’s Western Naval Command (WNC) on Thursday said it has monitored two consecutive rocket launches conducted by China on June 16 and 17, with authorities reporting no incidents, injuries, or debris detected within Philippine-monitored areas.

In a statement, the WNC said it worked closely with the Western Command (WESCOM), Tactical Operations WingWest (TOWWEST), the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police Maritime Group, Bureau of Fire Protection, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Puerto Princesa City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and other partner agencies to track the launch of the Long March 3B and Long March 12 rockets.

Personnel stationed on Lawak Island, Patag Island, and at Naval Monitoring Detachment Tubbataha observed and documented visual indicators consistent with the rockets’ flight trajectories as part of ongoing maritime and airspace surveillance efforts.

“As of this reporting, no injuries, property damage, or rocket debris have been reported within WNC’s Area of Responsibility,” the command said. Authorities continue to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure public safety and maintain situational awareness following the launches.

The WNC also urged residents, especially those in coastal and island communities, to remain vigilant and immediately report any unusual objects or suspected debris that may be found in their localities.

expand the Tertiary Education Subsidy, strengthen its targeting of poor and disadvantaged learners, ensure support for qualified graduates from Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program households, and create a new Private Education Assistance program for disadvantaged students in priority programs. Under the reconciled bill, students from 4Ps households will be placed at the top of the TES priority list, a reform aimed at ensuring that assistance reaches learners who face the greatest financial barriers to entering and completing tertiary education.

By Vito Barcelo

DEPARTMENT of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

Secretary Vince Dizon on Thursday called on the public to immediately report stalled, defective, or neglected government infrastructure projects, giving assurance that concerns raised to the agency will be acted upon promptly.

Dizon said that public participation plays a vital role in ensuring that government projects are properly implemented, completed on time, and maintained for the benefit of communities.

The secretary’s call came following a viral video showing a submerged portion of Arzadon Road in Barangay Mayombo, Dagupan City which was brought to the attention of the DPWH and immediately subjected to assessment.

“Report it. It is impossible for me alone to monitor every project nationwide. That is why citizens’ participation is very important. Our commitment is to respond and take action quickly,” Dizon said during his visit to Dagupan City.

The DPWH chief encouraged residents to continue serving as partners of the government by reporting infrastructure issues, project delays, construction defects, and other concerns affecting public works.

He stressed that community feedback helps authorities identify problems on the ground and implement immediate corrective measures.

Dizon reiterated the agency’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and swift action to ensure that governmentfunded infrastructure projects deliver safe, reliable, and quality services to the public.

Vape, marijuana pushers hit Baguio City schools—PDEA

By Dexter A. See

City—The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has confirmed the sale of vapes with marijuana in some schools in the city, prompting the police and

OPINION

The Church speaks to the Age of Machines

THERE is a new papal document making quiet waves in theological circles, and it deserves far more attention than it has received in the daily news cycle.

Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, which is still being studied and discussed across Catholic institutions worldwide, opens with a chapter that is, in essence, a declaration of how the Church intends to engage one of the defining challenges of our time: artificial intelligence.

But before the Pope says a single word about algorithms or chatbots, he does something more fundamental. He explains how the Church thinks. And that, for the Filipino reader, is worth understanding.

The first chapter, titled “A Dynamic Approach Faithful to the Gospel,” makes a case that Catholic social teaching is not a dusty archive of old encyclicals preserved behind glass. It is a living, breathing tradition that grows with history. Every age, the Pope argues, brings its own res novae — Latin for “new things.” Industrialization was a new thing. Globalization was a new thing. Climate change was a new thing. Artificial intelligence is simply the newest. What is striking is how deliberately Pope Leo rejects two temptations: blind enthusiasm for technology on one hand, and fearful rejection of it on the other. Neither the cheerleading of Silicon Valley nor the panic of dystopian fiction is an adequate response.

What the Church offers instead is discernment — a careful, principled examination of whether a new development serves or diminishes human dignity.

This is not a small distinction. In an era when governments rush to regulate AI without fully understanding it, and corporations deploy it without fully examining its consequences, the Church is saying: slow down and ask the right questions.

One of the more refreshing arguments in the encyclical is its treatment of the relationship between faith and human knowledge. Pope Leo insists that Catholic social teaching develops through genuine dialogue between Scripture’s wisdom and the insights of science — economics, sociology, political science, and yes, technology studies. This is not the Church of Galileo’s trial. This is a Church that says: bring us your data, your research, your expertise. Technical knowledge tells us what is possible. Moral wisdom tells us what is right. We need both.

Magnifica Humanitas also makes clear that the Church does not seek political power or the functions of the state. It does not want to run governments or write legislation.

But when human dignity is threatened by exploitative economic systems, by political structures that abandon the vulnerable, and by technological developments that trample ethical limits, then the Church has both the right and the duty to speak up. Its role, as Pope Leo frames it, is not domination but service.

For Filipinos, this encyclical arrives at a moment of particular urgency.

The Philippines is among the most enthusiastic adopters of digital technology in Southeast Asia. We are the social media capital of the world, a title we wear with pride but should perhaps examine more critically.

AI is already embedded in how Filipinos consume news, apply for jobs, access government services, and even how they are surveilled by the state.

What is striking is how deliberately Pope Leo rejects two temptations: blind enthusiasm for technology on one hand, and fearful rejection of it on the other

Yet the country’s regulatory framework for AI remains thin. The national conversation about its ethical dimensions is largely confined to tech conferences attended by the already-converted.

Meanwhile, millions of Filipino workers from call center agents to administrative staff to content moderators face real displacement as automation accelerates. These are not abstract concerns. These are families.

The Church in the Philippines, through CBCP and Catholic educational institutions, has a unique opportunity here. The framework Pope Leo offers: that technological advancement must always remain at the service of humanity, never the other way around is precisely the kind of moral anchor the national conversation lacks.

The Philippines has also seen how unregulated digital power enables disinformation, harasses critics, and distorts democratic discourse. The Pope’s insistence that the Church speak whenever human dignity is threatened is a mandate that Filipino bishops, educators, and Catholic civil society organizations should take seriously and translate into concrete advocacy.

Magnifica Humanitas is, at its core, an argument that the Gospel is not a relic. It is a lens through which every age, including the age of machines, must be examined.

Chapter 1 of the encyclical does not yet answer the hard questions about AI. It does something more necessary first: it tells us how to ask them. For a country as Catholic and as digitally exposed as the Philippines, that is a conversation long overdue.

This is the first of several columns on this important document and on this big issue of our time. Please read the next columns too.

With action, Villanueva spurs Senate to ‘get back to work’

By Jimbo Gulle

FOR two weeks, the Senate has been an institution at war with itself. Two leadership changes in three weeks. A walkout. A boycott. A motion to wipe the slate clean. And 700,000 earthquake survivors in Mindanao still waiting for the Senate to do something useful. It took one senator, on a Sunday morning, to start putting it back together. Sen. Joel Villanueva didn’t call a press conference. He spoke to his congregation at the Jesus Is Lord Church and said what the Senate has needed to hear for weeks: he would show up, he would work, and the fighting had gone on long enough.

“We can’t keep fighting all the time,” he said. “As public servants, our priority is to ensure that the Senate continues to work for you.” Simple words — but after the chaos since May, they landed like a circuit breaker.

His father had already set the tone. CIBAC Rep. Eddie Villanueva, founder of JIL Church, told the same congregation

what he had told his son: “Follow your conscience. Follow the perfect will of God, not your politician friends, not your companions. Make your decisions not based on what people want in politics but based on what God wants for your life.” Whether or not one shares the faith behind it, the message was clear: resist political pressure. Do what is right.

The more important question, the one Villanueva has already answered for himself, is whether senators are willing to do their jobs while the country waits

The son appears to have listened. The significance of Joel Villanueva’s

Service as a great honor

BEYOND Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian’s statement following a leadership reorganization in the Legislature’s 24-member chamber, Filipinos will be watching how the body will tackle problems confronting the nation.

Filipinos heard the 52-year-old Senate leader say, emphasizing duty, accountability and Constitutional responsibility, that the “opportunity to serve as Senate President is a great honor...a call to be a role model in daily service.

“Above all, this duty is a responsibility — to the Senate, to our Constitution, and to the Filipino people.”

Gatchalian took the helm of the Senate chamber during a period of reorganization after weeks of tense power struggle that also saw Sen. Erwin Tulfo appointed as the new chairperson of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

Following his election this week, Gatchalian outlined the chamber’s key priorities, including the timeline for the 2026 national budget and the Constitutional mandate to proceed with the pending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

The urgent tasks include reviewing proposed bills on economic relief, while delegating the ongoing, highly politicized flood control corruption investigations to the Office of the Ombudsman.

Gatchalian’s ascension to the Senate presidency, which ended weeks of

a bitter, disruptive leadership deadlock, signifies a return to functional governance and legislative progress after months of stalled sessions. With the highly anticipated impeachment trial looming, reorganizing the leadership ensures the chamber is perceived as neutral.

The Senate must prioritize measures addressing commodity inflation, El Niño preparations, and post-disaster economic recovery

Senator Francis Escudero, a former Senate President, has been designated to preside over the trial. This arrangement, in the eyes of some political observers, symbolizes an adherence to Constitutional duty and rule of law rather than political favoritism. Observers say the Senate’s han-

dling of the impeachment, due to start on July 6 after both prosecution and defense panels have submitted their respective pre-trial briefs, and its cooperation with the Ombudsman will test whether the institution is genuinely committed to reform or just protecting its own. The Senate must collaborate with the military, Philippine National Police, and local government units to lock down the chamber’s perimeter and ensure orderly proceedings.

The Senate must conduct daily fair trials as mandated by the Constitution regarding the Articles of Impeachment, which center on the misuse of confidential funds and unexplained wealth.

We note the public has been deeply skeptical due to massive controversies linking multiple lawmakers to the ₱100-billion flood mitigation corruption scandal.

With the Blue Ribbon Committee and relevant preliminary findings already transmitted, the urgent task is to let the Office of the Ombudsman execute the cases and issue formal indictments.

The Senate must stop the grandstanding and instead pass concrete legislative amendments (like stricter anti-corruption and conflict-of-interest penalties) based on initial committee findings. Not the least, the Senate must prioritize measures addressing commodity inflation, El Niño preparations, and post-disaster economic recovery

Robots pour cocktails and run marathons, but still can’t multitask

BOSTON – They can mix cocktails, run marathons and fold laundry. But humanoid robots are still a long way from doing lots of different jobs on command, whatever the marketing says.

The gap was easy to spot at the Robotics Summit in Boston in late May. The glossy brochures promised one thing. The people who actually build the machines said another.

Elon Musk loves to show off his Optimus prototype, recently filmed jogging in short strides. Figure 03, a third-generation robot developed by Figure AI, can tidy and clean a living room by itself.

China’s AgiBot and Matrix Robotics say their robots can greet visitors, serve coffee and give them a tour, a little like C3PO from “Star Wars.”

The reality is more modest.

“Most of the humanoids you see are being teleoperated, or they’ve got very specific paths and chores that they do,” said Chris Matthieu of startup RealSense, which makes cameras for robots.

In other words, many are either run by a human with a remote control or stuck doing one narrow task. Take Neo, the robot that 1X launched with great fanfare last October. It was billed as “the world’s first consumer-ready humanoid robot designed to transform life at home” -- but was actually steered by a person off to the side.

Progress is real, though, and artificial intelligence is driving it. “I think AI has extremely accelerated that growth,” said William Okazaki of sensor maker Renesas.

One big hurdle is the hands. Long the

announcement lies not only in the words, but in what they signal.

It tells the Marcos Jr. administration the Senate can function again. It tells both the Gatchalian majority and the Cayetano holdouts that the chamber’s purpose is larger than their ambitions. And it tells earthquake survivors waiting for relief that at least one senator has his priorities straight.

Villanueva did not grandstand. He did not bargain for concessions. He simply said he would do his job — and made it harder for everyone else to keep avoiding theirs.

The Senate adjourned sine die on June 6 without resolving anything. It took a special session decreed by President Marcos to get things rolling again.

Boycotts and absences had been weaponized, and there was every reason to expect the standoff to drag into the recess with no one willing to move first.

Villanueva, to his credit, moved first. By committing publicly, he has effectively dared his colleagues to follow. It is now harder for either bloc to justify continued obstruction when the senator that both sides have been pressuring has chosen,

holy grail of robotics, they are getting close: robots can now grip with a delicate touch, and some sensors can even tell when they are touching human skin.

There is a catch. Like chatbots, these AI systems don’t always behave the same way twice, which makes them hard to predict

Much of this comes from a new kind of AI known as a VLA model, short for vision-language-action. It blends written instructions with what a camera sees in real time, so the robot can link what it is looking at to what it should do. There is also the “world model” -- an AI that learns from vast amounts of images and video until it can predict what will happen next in the real world, such as how an object will shift when it is squeezed. Hunt for data

But an android that can do a bit of everything is still years off.

“For general purpose robots, it will take longer,” said Daniel Fan of Innodisk, which makes parts for robots. Plenty of humanoids are already out in the world -- Boston Dynamics’ Atlas at Hyundai, Hexagon Robotics’ AEON at a BMW site -- but these are trials, not final

unconditionally, to legislate. His stated priorities are telling: Mindanao relief, third reading measures, pending military confirmations. Not political trophies — the actual backlog of a Senate that stopped working. He arrived, quietly, on Monday, but not to tip a leadership scale. He came to clear a docket. That distinction matters. The Senate’s credibility has taken a beating. Every day it remained paralyzed was another day Filipinos could fairly ask what their legislators were being paid to do. The earthquake made that question sharper — while senators argued over titles, Mindanao was counting bodies, 68 and counting, with 1.4 million more in evacuation centers. With Villanueva attending, the arithmetic has shifted. Gatchalian now has the numbers to be called the rightful Senate president. That is the subtext of Sunday’s statement. Villanueva did not say whom he would support. He said he would work. But in a chamber where quorum has been weaponized and one senator had held the balance for two weeks, showing

products.

“Until you actually get the robot actually trying to do the thing you think it can do, you don’t really know,” said Charlie Kemp of Hello Robot, which sells robots for people with limited mobility. Running fully on their own, at scale, is not yet possible, “because there is not enough data,” said Xinrui Bi of AgiBot. To gather it, companies are setting up cameras everywhere to record human movement -- from people cooking at home to workers in a textile workshop in India. The stakes are higher than for a chatbot like ChatGPT. A robot acts in the physical world, so its mistakes can hurt someone.

“If you want to move into a more social domain, it really has to be safe for the users around the robot,” said Valentino Fagard of Japan’s XELA Robotics, which works on giving robots a sense of touch. Engineers can set limits -- telling the machines not to grip too hard, or not to get too close to a person. But there is a catch. Like chatbots, these AI systems don’t always behave the same way twice, which makes them hard to predict.

“The issue with, call it the world model, or the end-to-end VLA, is they’re non-deterministic, they’re a black box,” said John Black of Brain Corp, whose robots stick to a very specific task, like cleaning floors or checking store shelves.

“They’re nowhere close to reaching the safety levels required,” he said, because even the people who build these systems can not fully see why they do what they do. AFP

up is itself a decision. What he has done is remove the Senate’s last excuse for inaction. The question is no longer who leads the chamber. The more important question, the one Villanueva has already answered for himself, is whether senators are willing to do their jobs while the country waits. His father told him to follow his conscience, not his friends. On Sunday, the Senate saw what that looks like.

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Kyiv sets Moscow refinery ablaze

MOSCOW – Ukraine on Thursday launched its largest drone attack on Moscow in years, sparking fires in and around the capital, hitting a major oil refinery and forcing evacuations at the country’s largest airport, officials said.

AFP reporters saw large columns of black smoke spreading over the capital’s southern skyline in dramatic scenes, while flames could be seen burning on part of an oil complex in the southern Kapotnya district.

A strong, unpleasant smell hung in the air, as the fire burned at the refinery through the morning.

The strikes came as Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Southeast Asian leaders at a summit in the central city of Kazan, about 700 kilometers east of the capital.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the strikes in a post on social media, calling them a “fully justified response” to Russian attacks on Ukraine.

The attack was the largest on Moscow in at least two years, Russia’s state TASS news agency reported.

And the second time this month that Kyiv has launched a major attack during an international summit after striking

Saint Petersburg at the start of a landmark economic forum near the city.

All of Moscow’s airports were shut for hours, leading to hundreds of flight delays.

The country’s busiest -- Sheremetyevo -- announced it had evacuated passengers to “safe locations” during the barrage, before it re-opened at around 11:00 am (0800 GMT).

“Several drones managed to reach the MNPZ (Moscow Oil Refinery),” Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote on Telegram early Thursday, without specifying damage to the facility.

Authorities announced they had closed traffic on streets nearby.

Another drone crashed into an apartment building in the Moscow region district of Zhukovsky, while drone debris sparked a fire at a shopping center near the capital’s suburbs, Moscow region governor Andrey Vorobyov said. AFP

Hegseth hails progress by NATO allies, says some must ‘do more’

BRUSSELS – US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday hailed progress by NATO allies to meet defence spending vows, but said some must “do more”, as he struck a conciliatory tone at an alliance meeting.

“Many countries following through, some that still need to do more, and we will be candid about that, both in private and in public,” Hegseth said ahead of talks with NATO defence ministers in Brussels.

“I think that’s important -- friends being honest with friends.”

The warm tone will likely reassure Washington’s allies ahead of a summit with US President Donald Trump next month -- after the mercurial leader lashed out at Europe over its response to his war on Iran.

NATO will look to showcase increased expenditure by Europe to prove to Trump it is progressing on a pledge last year to reach five percent of GDP on defenserelated spending.

“When it comes to spending, what we are seeing is staggering amounts of money coming in,” NATO chief Mark Rutte said.

“Europe and Canada spending in 2025 more than $90 billion extra compared to 2024, which is almost a 20 percent increase in defense spending.”

Despite the positive spin from the alliance, a NATO official said that three European countries, including Slovenia and the Czech Republic, are currently on course to fall short of a crucial two percent threshold this year.

Washington has been clear with Europe that it wants NATO allies on the continent to take over primary responsibility for their own conventional defense as US focus shifts towards China.

As part of that process the Pentagon has told allies it is reducing the number of assets worldwide that it makes available to NATO. AFP

Jubilant NY on guard for Knicks parade

NEW YORK—Millions of New Yorkers are expected to turn out for a heavily guarded victory parade Thursday for the city’s Knicks basketball team after it won the NBA Finals at the weekend.

New York erupted in jubilant scenes Saturday when the Knicks broke a 53-year drought to defeat the San Antonio Spurs away in Texas.

Police said 10,000 officers would be on hand for the parade, the department’s largest ever deployment for a planned event, with heavy weapons and explosives teams among them.

Attendees, who do not require a ticket, will be required to undergo security screening, with extensive restrictions on permitted items.

The parade, which kicks off at 1400 GMT, will see the Knicks travel from Bowling Green at the bottom of Manhattan to City Hall, a 10-block route known as the “Canyon of Heroes.” They will be showered with 2,500 pounds (1.1 tonnes) of recycled confetti, according to the city.

After the parade, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani will award keys to the city to the victorious squad at City Hall.

“From packed watch parties in our parks to joyous celebrations that spilled out onto our streets, this championship belongs to New York City,” said Mamdani.

‘Empire State of Mind’

Typically the preserve of the city’s “great and good,” leftist Mamdani is giving away 600 tickets for the ceremony at City Hall to ordinary Big Apple residents.

“The Knicks brought together New Yorkers from every borough and every walk of life. That’s why we’re making these tickets free and accessible -- so working-class people have a chance to be part of this historic moment and celebrate the team that brought a championship home,” he added. AFP

Caloocan 5 routs Bataan, tightens grip on North lead

THE Caloocan Batang Kankaloo unleashed a strong finishing kick to trounce the Bataan Risers, 100-81, on Wednesday and tighten its grip on the North division lead in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the One Arena Cainta in Rizal Province.

Bataan moved to within 80-86, but Jeff Manday drilled in a triple to trigger a 14-1 spurt that raised Caloocan’s record to 13-1, widening its gap against reigning national champion Abra Solid North (10-1) and San Juan (9-1) in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 28-team tournament.

Dom Escobar presided over Caloocan’s romp with 22 points, 12 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists and was chosen the SportsPlus best player over Manday, who tallied 18 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals. Other Batang Kankaloo who shone were Jammer Jamito, with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists, Chris Bitoon, with 12 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists, and Kymani Ladi, with 10 points, highlighted by an alley oop dunk that pushed Caloocan ahead, 83-72. Jamito followed suit with a one-handed slam that sealed the outcome, 95-80, with 1 minute and 36 seconds left.

Bataan, which skidded to 5-8, got 20 points, laced with five triples, 4 rebounds and 2 assists, from Hubert Cani; 16 points, 3 assists and 2 rebounds from Alfred Flores, 12 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists from Tutoy Ramirez, and 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists from Chris Javier.

Kane double fires England’s bid as Ronaldo’s Portugal stumbles

LOS ANGELES—England

launched their World Cup bid with a rollercoaster 4-2 win against Croatia on Wednesday as Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal stumbled to a draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In an enthralling Group L game at the Texas home of the Dallas Cowboys NFL team, Harry Kane scored twice before goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford made the game safe as England began their bid to end a 60-year wait for a major trophy.

Kane got the ball rolling by slotting home a penalty at the second attempt after the referee ordered him to re-take it when Croatian ‘keeper Dominik Livakovic was adjudged to have been off his line.

Croatia fought back and Martin Baturina brought them level after 36 minutes before unmarked Kane equalled Gary Lineker’s England record of 10 World Cup goals with a thumping header.

But the English defensive frailties were on show when Petar Musa equalized for Croatia in first-half stoppage time.

Only in the second half did England impose their will. Bellingham scored a classy goal after outrunning his defender before substitute Rashford took his time before slotting the ball into the net on 85 minutes.

Kane revealed that England’s German coach

Thomas Tuchel had told his players at half-time to throw caution to the wind.

“The manager gave us a speech at half-time just to say, look, if we lose, we lose. We’re losing our way,” Kane said.

“And I think you saw that, the way we come out in the second half. We went full gas. And they couldn’t live with it.”

Struggling Ronaldo

Earlier, Portuguese great Ronaldo, 41, equalled the record of appearing in six World Cups set on Tuesday by his old nemesis Lionel Messi but his side were held to an upset 1-1 draw by DR Congo.

Ronaldo found the going tough against a resolute Congolese defense in Houston.

Joao Neves opened the scoring for the Portuguese in the first half but Yoane Wissa equalized with a headed goal in first-half injury time to give his nation their first ever World Cup point.

The result once again renewed scrutiny of Portugal coach Roberto Martinez’s insistence on starting the ageing Ronaldo. But Martinez defended the veteran’s selection despite an ineffective performance.

“It makes no sense to take off the best goal scorer in world football in a game that you need goals,” Martinez said.

Gin Kings Brownlee, RJ, Scottie lead Gilas roster

By Jeremiah Sevilla

NEWLY CROWNED PBA champions

Justin Brownlee, RJ Abarrientos, Scottie Thompson, and Troy Rosario headline the Gilas Pilipinas’ roster for the third window of the 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers in July. Fresh from capturing the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup title, Brownlee and the rest of the Barangay Ginebra core lead the 12-man lineup revealed by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) on Thursday for the team’s final games against New Zealand and Australia. Mike Phillips earns his first Gilas call-

up while Justine Baltazar returns to the national team as they join Rosario to bolster the frontcourt in the absence of big men Kai Sotto and Quentin MilloraBrown. Calvin Oftana is also out of the lineup after begging off to finally undergo surgery for his injured toe. The 6-foot-8 versatile forward Phillips, is set for a national squad debut after a solid collegiate stint with De La Salle University that saw him claim the UAAP Season 88 Finals Most Valuable Player award.

Rounding out the roster are mainstays June Mar Fajardo, Chris Newsome, Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu, Kevin Quiam-

bao, and Carl Tamayo. The Nationals under coach Tim Cone will take on the New Zealand Tall Blacks on July 3 in Auckland and the Australia Boomers on July 6 in Perth. Gilas holds a 2-2 win-loss record in Group A of the Asian Qualifiers after sweeping its assignments against Guam and losing to Australia and New Zealand at home during the first two windows. Guam remains at the bottom with a winless record in four games. The top three teams will enter the second of the qualifiers next year, with the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand expected to advance.

Ronaldo left the field without speaking to reporters but later posted on Instagram: “It’s not the start we wanted, but it’s a long road and it’s not finished.” DR Congo’s achievement was even greater given that their preparations have been disrupted by the Ebola outbreak in their country. AFP

FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

US defense shuts Czechia down in VNL

THE USA stymied the Czechia hitters in a breezy 25-17, 25-12, 25-16 victory on Thursday in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League at the Philsports Arena.

Chiaka Ogbogu anchored the US defense with six of their 12 blocks, powering their fifth win in six outings to stay firmly on track for the finals of the FIVB’s premier annual international competition.

Jordan Thompson again showed the way in scoring for the USA, delivering 15 points on 14 attacks and a block, while Ogbogu and Logan Eggleston had 11 points each.

The USA has yet to drop a set in two matches in the VNL Pasig City leg presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.

The stellar net defense translated to a huge difference in attacks for the USA over the Czechs, 40-27.

No Czech player reached double figures, with Magdalena Jehlarova coming up with nine points, while Ela Koulisiani and Monika Brancuska scored seven each.

Czechia absorbed its third loss in six matches and second straight in the Pasig City leg. They try to stop the bleeding when they take on Philippine fan favorite Japan on Friday. he USA gets a break on Friday before taking on world No. 1 and defending champion Italy on Saturday.

FIBA 3x3 World Cup draws 100K+ visitors to Warsaw

WARSAW—The landmark 10th edition of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2026 delivered record crowds, global visibility and unforgettable moments as Warsaw welcomed more than 100,000 visitors to the 3x3 Village throughout the week, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere in the heart of Warsaw.

Held at Plac Defilad in the shadow of the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, the event brought together 40 teams from 26 countries, while showcasing the continued growth and momentum of 3x3 basketball.

All seven evening sessions sold out driving A total of 27,500 spectators attending games inside ‘Arena 3x3’ across the week.

Day 4 proved especially memorable, setting a new attendance benchmark for a FIBA 3x3 event as approximately 25,000 people visited the fan village over the course of the day.

Interest extended well beyond Poland, with fans from more than 32 countries purchasing tickets for the event.

Beyond the elite competition, approximately 1,500 participants took part in side tournaments and community activations, including youth, university, amateur and district competitions. Around 400 children participated in the Warsaw district tournament alone, contributing to the event’s lasting impact and legacy. The event welcomed 110 accredited journalists from around the world.

Fans across the globe followed the action through 55 hours of television coverage and an extensive network of broadcast partners covering more than 30 territories with prominent worldwide broadcasters and partners.

Initial digital figures indicate that content from the tournament generated more than 150 million views across FIBA 3x3’s social media platforms, further underlining the popularity of the discipline on digital and social platforms.

The event welcomed a diverse group of international and local influencers who helped showcase the excitement of 3x3 basketball to new audiences.

International creators including Andrew Wave, Atiga, Ruben Reynes, Lukas Simoner, Rookicks and SBB joined the festivities, while leading Polish influencers and personalities also engaged with fans throughout the week.

USA’s Chiaka Ogbog scores with a smash against a Czech defender Ela Koulisiani in the Women’s Volleyball Nations League at the Philsports Arena.

Argentina’s Scorzato grabs 1-shot golf lead; Ramos leads PH charge

By Jeremiah Sevilla

TARLAC CITY—Franco Scorzato of Argentina surged to the top of the leaderboard after blasting a six-under-par 66 for a one-stroke advantage, while Sean Ramos continued to carry the fight for the Filipinos in the second round of the BingoPlus Philippine ADT Open on Thursday at the Luisita Golf and Country Club here.

Picking up his pace during the morning flights, Scorzato fired five birdies in the first nine holes then rattled off three more on the back nine to offset his two bogeys for a total of 10-under 134 after 36 holes in the $100,000 tournament.

The Argentinian player, who stands at No. 19 in the current season’s Asian Development Tour Order of Merit standings, improved his six-birdie, two-bogey showing from the first round to climb eight spots up in snatching the solo lead halfway through the tourney, backed by BingoPlus.

Japan’s three-time ADT champion

Naoki Sekito banked on his solid putting in the afternoon session to card a 69 after posting 66 in the opening round as he snagged a share of the second spot with Chinese Taipie’s Su Ching-Hung with 135 apiece.

“I only hit 10 greens today, but I made a lot of good up and downs, and I holed some putts for birdies. So I think my chipping and putting helped me a lot today,” said the eight-year Japanese pro, who made a 20-foot birdie on the 18th hole to wrap up the day. Sekito, an ADT Order of Merit winner with two titles in 2019 along with another trophy in 2023, said he is ea-

ger to put up a solid performance on his second appearance at Luisita as he aims to make an Asian Tour comeback.

“I did play in the Asian Tour for a few years. Last year, I came back to ADT, but I didn’t play well, so I couldn’t go back to the Asian Tour. Hopefully, I can get back this year,” he said.

Macao’s Kelvin Si slipped to solo fourth with 136 while USA’s Bren Ito, Thailand’s Suttinon Panyo, and Australia’s Darcy Brereton forged a threeway tie at No. 5 with 137. Opening-day leader Thomas Plumb of England plunged to a four-way knot at No. 8 after shooting a lackluster 74 following a bogey-free 64 in the opener.

Meanwhile, Ramos once again spearheaded the charge for the local standouts as he tallied 71 with three birdies against two bogeys for 139, good for a share of No. 12 with South Korea’s Minhyeok Yang and Jaeil Kim, Indonesia’s Jonathan Wijono, and USA’s Henry Chung.

PH wushu bets to hold training camp in China

By Randy M. Caluag

TWELVE Filipino wushu athletes are set to undergo an intensive two-month training camp in China to prepare for major upcoming international tournaments, including the Wushu World Cup this July and the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games in September.

The delegation, split between performance-focused Taolu (forms) and combat-focused Sanda (sparring) disciplines, aims to sharpen its skills against world-class standards by training directly in the sport’s birthplace.

The Taolu squad features a blend of seasoned competitors and rising talent. Veteran international medalists Agatha Chrytenzen Wong and Jones Llabres Inso lead the roster, alongside Alexander Gabriel De Los Reyes, Mark Anthony Polo, Mark Lester Ragay, Sandrex Gainsan, and Youth Olympic Games qualifier Angel Polo.

The Sanda lineup is completed by

opment, the athletes will be stationed across different regional sports academies.

“We will be training separately in different provinces in China for two months,” Inso said in an interview. Inso, who famously snapped the Philippines’ 10-year gold medal drought in men’s wushu taolu at the previous edition of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand, revealed that he intends to use the overseas camp to fundamentally upgrade his competitive edge.

“I will try to develop a new routine to have a better chance of winning a medal,” Inso added, emphasizing the need for high-difficulty choreography to impress international judges at the World Cup and Asian Games.

The Wushu Federation - Philippines expects the rigorous camp to serve as the final phase of preparation as the national team builds up for its highstakes mid-year campaigns.

Casuga, Pilac edge into JPGT Finals at Eagle Ridge in thrillers

GEN. TRIAS, Cavite—Jacob Casuga and Quincy Pilac produced the most valuable runner-up finishes of their young careers, weathering a nerveracking battle for qualification and squeezing into the Elite Junior PGT Finals by the slimmest of margins after a dramatic Luzon Series finale at the ICTSI Eagle Ridge Junior PGT Championship here on Thursday.

With their championship hopes hanging by a thread, Casuga and Pilac rose to the occasion, each finishing second in their respective divisions to secure enough ranking points and claim the fourth and final Luzon berths to the North vs. South Finals set Aug. 17-20 at Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club.

The fight for qualification proved every bit as intense as the tournament itself at the demanding Aoki layout of the Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club, with leaderboard swings, late collapses and clutch finishes determining the final cast of contenders.

Entering the week ranked sixth in the boys’ 11-14 division, Casuga staged a stirring comeback from five shots behind and even grabbed the lead before disaster struck. A bogey-double bogey finish spoiled an otherwise gutsy round of 75, leaving him at 151 and in second behind Chan Anh, who also stumbled with a closing double bogey but sealed the title with a 148 total after a 76.

Ryuji Suzuki charged into third with a 74 for 153, while overnight leader Javie Bautista faltered with an 83 after a 71 and tumbled to fourth at 154.

Still, Casuga’s runner-up finish proved enough. He finished the series with 30 points, tying Suzuki for fourth overall but claiming the last Finals seat via tiebreak. He joins Anh, Vito Sarines and Bautista on the North squad.

Pilac’s path to the Finals was equally dramatic. Needing a big finish to stay alive, she delivered a clutch closing 72 for a 150 total. Although a late stumble denied her the title, the runner-up effort

earned the ranking points she needed to secure the fourth and final girls’ berth.

Cailey Gonzales snatched the divi sion crown with a 75 and a 149 aggre gate, while Aerin Chan struggled to a 79 and settled for third at 155.

The result sparked a dramatic shift in the standings. Pilac’s runner-up finish netted 12 points, boosting her total to 31 from only three tourna ments and allowing her to edge Chan, who finished with 30 points after three third-place efforts.

But Casuga and Pilac were not the only players to rewrite the script in the Luzon Series finale, played under swel tering heat and gusty winds.

In the girls’ 7-10 category, Jaicee Cervantes delivered one of the week’s most dominant performances, firing an eagle-aided 71 to complete a 147 total and romp to an 11-shot victory over Tyly Bernardino, who carded a 77 for 158. Jehanne Mendoza placed third at 160 after an 83.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

BSP raises interest rate to 4.75% to curb inflation

By Thony Rose Lesaca

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Thursday raised its key benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 4.75 percent, its second straight hike to anchor inflation expectations and mitigate second-round effects.

The policy action also brings the interest rates on the overnight deposit and lending facilities to 4.25 percent and 5.25 percent, respectively. Monetary Board officials said inflationary pressures remain strong despite a softer May inflation print, as global oil and fertilizer prices stay elevated and continue to drag on domestic fuel and food prices. Rising core inflation also signals broadening price pressures. Headline inflation settled at 6.8 percent in May, slower than 7.2

percent in April, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Average headline inflation will likely breach the 4.0-percent tolerance ceiling in 2026 and 2027, before settling above the 3.0-percent target in 2028, the BSP said.

“The Monetary Board decided that monetary policy tightening is warranted. Today’s policy action will help keep inflation expectations anchored and mitigate the risk of second-round effects,” the BSP said.

“The measured monetary policy action will also complement fiscal measures in supporting steady consumption and strengthening business sentiment,” it said.

Oxford Economics predicts another 25-basis-point hike in August as inflation remains elevated despite easing oil prices.

Core inflation rose to 4.1 percent in May from 3.9 percent in April, suggesting that earlier increasing energy and food prices are feeding through into broader consumer prices, according to Oxford Economics.

The BSP noted that “rising core inflation indicates broadening price pressures and second-round effects, including higher inflation expectations”.

“All in, today’s hike represents a continued response to mounting price pressures and expect another 25 bps hike in August,” Oxford Economics said.

THE Philippines recorded 2.95 million international visitor arrivals from Jan. 1 to June 16, up 6.16 percent from the same period last year.

The United States emerged as the country’s top source market, accounting for 591,569 of the total arrivals as of June 17.

Department of Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay told American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines members on June 17 that the growth in arrivals should translate into broader economic gains.

“The United States has now become our number one source market, with more than half a million visitors and still growing,” Angara-Mathay said, adding that tourism growth should be measured in terms of jobs, investments and community opportunities.

The tourism department is prioritizing improved connectivity by working with the Department of Transportation, airlines and industry partners to expand air routes and ease access to destinations nationwide.

The agency is also advancing high-value tourism segments such as meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, gastronomy, wellness, education and retirement tourism to encourage longer stays and higher spending.

Angara-Mathay cited tourism’s growing role as an investment platform. She said recent overseas engagements generated about $3.4 billion in investment leads and financing support across aviation, infrastructure, healthcare and related sectors.

Othel V. Campos

COOPERATION.

Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan reaffirms the government’s enduring partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) during a meeting with Kanni Wignaraja, UN assistant secretarygeneral and UNDP regional director for Asia and the Pacific on June 15, 2026 at the DEPDev office in Mandaluyong City.

PH climbs four places to rank 47th in global competitiveness index

to 4 in 2026, while

By Othel V. Campos

THE

The

improved from

place in 2025 after scoring 59.07 in the annual report by the World Competitiveness Center. A gradual recovery previously saw the nation stall at 52nd place in 2023 and 2024.

VOLUNTEERS. The Ayala Group, through Brigadang Ayala, mobilizes 150 volunteers across General Santos City and Sarangani to carry out relief assistance, psychosocial support, school safety assessments and other recovery efforts. The response followed the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off the coast of Mindanao on June 8, devastating communities across Southern Mindanao.

Strong gains in business efficiency and economic performance drove the 2026 rebound, though chronic gaps in infrastructure and rising public debt continue to weigh on long-term prospects.

The International Institute for Management Development evaluates global economies across four core pillars: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency and infrastructure. The 2026 report emphasized that strong institutions, volatility navigation and shock-absorption capacity dictate economic success amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The Philippines secured 38th place in economic performance and 30th place in business efficiency. However, the country placed 45th in government efficiency and lagged at 60th place in infrastructure. Forward-looking metrics between 2025 and 2026 helped the rise. Artificial intelligence-related patent publications grew from 1 in 2025

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy is drafting a circular to guide developers interested in participating in the country’s emerging nuclear power industry, an agency official said.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the circular will outline cost recovery mechanisms, community benefits and rates of return for prospective bidders in a planned nuclear energy auction. The government hopes to release the circular by the end of the year or early next year as part of its long-term strategy to lower electricity rates and boost energy security. The roadmap envisions the gradual

deployment of nuclear capacity, targeting 1,200 megawatts by 2032, 2,400 megawatts by 2035 and 4,800 megawatts by 2050. The Department of Energy aims to approve a nuclear power plant application before the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ends in 2028.

Asked whether the government would bid out the first nuclear project, Garin said the framework is still being finalized.

“The arrangement is that we have an offer for those who would first build the (plant). But we still have to determine the site, what technology it will be, etc. But it’s still in the early stages,” Garin said.

RETAIL prices of well-milled rice continued to fall in early June, but the staple grain remained costlier than a year ago, while several key food items like fish and vegetables registered increases, official data showed. The national average retail price of well-milled rice fell to P56.66 per kilogram during the June 1 to 5 monitoring period, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said. The figure is down from P57.88 in late May and P58.30 in early May. Despite the consecutive declines, rice prices remained higher compared with June 2025, when the staple averaged P49.13 in the second half and P49.50 in the first half of the month.

The PSA tracks nationwide retail prices of selected agricultural commodities regularly to monitor food cost movements and overall market conditions.

Its latest data showed several other major food commodities recorded month-on-month and year-on-year price spikes.

The average price of galunggong (round scad) rose to P239.18 per kilogram in early June from P234.40 in late May. The popular fish averaged P219.62 during the same period last year. Baguio beans posted a sharper climb, increasing to P141.48 per kilogram from P131.41 in the latter half of May. The current retail price of the vegetable also outpaced the P126.90 recorded in June 2025.

Othel V. Campos

Alliance Global sets P62b capex for expansion

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ALLIANCE Global Group Inc., the listed conglomerate led by tycoon Andrew Tan, has set aside P62 billion in capital expenditures for 2026 to fund expansion across its real estate, tourism, gaming, and spirits businesses.

Alliance Global Group Inc. (AGI) president Kevin Andrew Tan said during the company’s annual stockholders meeting that the group remains well-positioned to pursue growth initiatives despite current market conditions, citing healthy cash positions and manageable debt levels across its subsidiaries.

“We entered 2026 with a strong balance sheet and sufficient liquidity across the group,” Tan said. “Our subsidiaries each carry healthy cash positions and well-managed debt, and that gives us room to absorb shocks without compromising our growth plans.”

The conglomerate—which owns Megaworld Corp., Travelers International Hotel Group Inc., and Emperador Inc.—said its diversified portfolio helps mitigate risks arising from geopolitical tensions, inflation, interest rate fluctuations, and softer global demand.

Tan said Megaworld, the group’s property arm, posted growth across all revenue streams during the first

quarter of 2026 as residential demand remained steady and office leasing expanded.

The company also launched its 37th township development during the first quarter: the 97-hectare Sugar Town project in Negros Occidental.

“Our lifestyle malls and hotels continue to benefit from strong foot traffic, healthy spending, and more MICE activities,” Tan said, referring to the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions sector.

In the tourism and gaming segment, Travelers International is leveraging the continued strength of the mass gaming market while expanding its non-gaming options across hotels, dining, retail, and events.

The company is also growing its digital gaming business and preparing to open Westside Resorts Manila in Entertainment City by the fourth quarter of 2026.

Meanwhile, Emperador is continuing to invest in its brandy and Scotch whisky brands as it navigates softer global demand for spirits.

PSEi rebounds as peace deal boosts market sentiment

PHILIPPINE equities bounced back

Thursday as the signing of a peace deal between the United States and Iran boosted investor sentiment.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index gained 38.85 points, or 0.63 percent, to close at 6,153.66, while the broader all shares index climbed 11.91 points, or 0.35 percent, to 3,393.41.

Analysts said investor sentiment improved after a peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran was finalized, ending more than three months of war that saw oil prices jump by more than $100 per barrel.

AB Capital Securities said strong foreign buying also lifted market trading.

Meanwhile, investors shrugged off the 25-basis-point rate hike announced by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), as the move was in line with market expectations.

“BSP’s 25 bps hike to 4.25 percent was largely shrugged off with focus shifting toward forward guidance

Philippine mango exports probe European and Canadian markets

MANY consumers in Europe and Canada may not be familiar with Philippine mangoes, yet. But once they have a bite of the sweet tropical fruit, they are expected to demand for more of these Philippine mangoes.

The Philippines, of late, sent trial shipments of its famed Guimaras mangoes to Brussels, Belgium to break into Europe’s high-end tropical fruit market.

The Bureau of Plant Industry reported that 100 kilograms of fresh mangoes from the Wonders Farm in Jordan, Guimaras made up the initial delivery.

Government officials are confident the Belgian capital will serve as a gateway to potential buyers and consumers in Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Germany.

It is a strategic market test that will gauge consumer demand and attract European importers looking for premium fruits.

“Every successful entry into a new market creates more opportunities for Filipino farmers and exporters,” says Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The shipment is a bold attempt to test strict European standards on tropical fruits. European fruit growers are known to be protective of their own produce and competing fruits will have a hard time penetrating the market, given the strict quarantine rules in that part of the globe.

Domestic growers, thus, must meet the rigorous food safety, quality and traceability benchmarks demanded by European Union regulators.

“Europe is a premium market where quality, food safety and traceability are highly valued, making it an important growth area for Philippine agricultural exports,” TiuLaurel said.

The Department of Agriculture is positioning these initial boxes as promotional trial exports to introduce the sweet variety to prospective buyers and industry stakeholders across Europe.

Guimaras mangoes carry a reputation as some of the sweetest in the world, making them a natural candidate for luxury agricultural trade.

Another modest shipment made its way to Canada. The shipment is opening access to a new North American market for Philippine mangoes, which have traditionally been heavily concentrated in a single export destination (United States).

Fresh mango exports in 2025 were valued at about $7.9 million, with more than 94 percent shipped to one market.

Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the development showcases the improving competitiveness of Philippine exports and ongoing efforts to widen market reach.

—“—

The shipment is a bold attempt to test strict European standards on tropical fruits.

“Canada is a promising market for premium Philippine products, and this shipment shows that our exporters can compete in high-potential destinations,” says Roque.

Much has to be done to penetrate the Canadian market.

“Securing market access is only the first step. Market access does not automatically translate into product access,” says Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo

The shipment could help establish a foothold for Philippine mangoes in Canada, including among Filipino consumers.

More mango exports means increased Filipino job opportunities. It is essential to raising farmer incomes and generating jobs across the entire supply chain.

“Every new export market we open creates opportunities not only for our farmers but also for workers involved in processing, logistics, packaging and distribution,” says Tiu-Laurel. “Expanding market access allows our producers to secure better prices, increase incomes and invest in improving productivity, helping drive inclusive growth in rural communities.”

The Philippine mango, more popularly known here as the Carabao mango, is internationally known for its sweetness and exotic taste.

There are 14 different strains of Carabao mango. They include the Talaban and Fresco of Guimaras, MMSU Gold of the Ilocos Region and Lamao and Sweet Elena of Zambales.

A study conducted by Bureau of Agricultural Research of the Department of Agriculture in 2003 found that the Sweet Elena of Zambales is the sweetest Carabao mango strain.

Philippine mangoes, meanwhile, found their way to Mexico through the Manila galleon trade between 1600 and 1800.

The Mexican Ataulfo and Manilita mango cultivars (cultivated variety) descended from the Philippine mango. Both of these cultivars are sometimes referred to as “Manila mangoes” in trade.

The Mexican Ataulfo crossed with other mango varieties, resulting in the Ataúlfo. Regardless, Ataúlfo remains a Philippine-type mango.

The Carabao mango during the American colonial period was also known as the champagne mango, a name which is now also applied in North American markets to the similar descendant cultivar, Ataulfo. Another common market name for the cultivar is honey mango, which is also used for Ataulfo.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

rather than the policy headline,” AB Capital Securities said.

Despite the rate hike, the property index advanced by 1.72 percent, services rose 2 percent, and holding firms edged up 0.11 percent. On the other hand, mining and oil fell by 2.87 percent, while financials and industrials declined by 0.68 percent and 0.35 percent, respectively.

Value turnover reached P6.03 billion as foreign investors turned net buyers, with inflows at P168 million.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. was the day’s index leader, jumping 9.11 percent to P12.22, while Puregold Price Club Inc. was the main index laggard, dropping 6.61 percent to P41.

The peso, however, slipped to 60.576 against the U.S. dollar Thursday from 60.393 on Wednesday.

Oil prices tumbled again Thursday after US President Donald Trump and his Iranian counterpart signed off on a deal to end their war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The news boosted optimism for a

lasting peace between the two nations after more than three months of war that has rattled energy markets and fueled a fresh spike in inflation. However, the upbeat mood on trading floors was tempered by expectations the US Federal Reserve will hike interest rates before year’s end, after its new boss held his first policy meeting and acknowledged “persistently high prices are a burden for the American people”.

Trump put his signature to the memorandum of understanding in Versailles after a G7 summit, telling reporters: “Just signed it.” Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, quoted by state news agency IRNA, said the document “was finalized with the signatures of the presidents.”

All eyes are now on the strait, through which a fifth of world oil normally passes and which Tehran effectively closed after the United States and Israel launched their war on Iran on February 28. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

ACEN injects P1b to subsidiary BCHC to fund land acquisition

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ACEN Corp. on Thursday said it subscribed to additional shares in wholly owned subsidiary Buendia Christiana Holdings Corp. for a total value of P1 billion.

ACEN disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange that it entered into a subscription contract with BCHC to subscribe to 1 million common shares at a par value of P100 per share, and nine million redeemable preferred shares “A” at a par value of P100 per share. These will be issued out of the increase in the authorized capital stock of BCHC.

BCHC will use the additional capital to fund the acquisition and purchase of land for existing and future renewable energy projects, the company said.

BCHC is a special purpose vehicle established to acquire and hold land for the ACEN Group’s development projects.

ACEN will pay the subscription price in cash. The price was determined through negotiations between the parties.

ACEN expects capital expenditure to exceed P80 billion this year, a significant increase from the P55 billion allocated in 2025 for its solar, wind and battery energy projects as it moves forward with its expansion plans. This represents a more than 50 percent increase from last year. Roughly P60 billion will be spent in the Philippines, equivalent to about 75 percent of the total projected capex.

ACEN, the renewable energy arm of the Ayala Group, has around 7 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity completed and under construction in the Philippines and selected key markets abroad.

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

CIRCULAR NO. 1238

Series of 2026

Subject: Amendments to the National Retail Payment System Framework and the Regulatory Framework for Merchant Payment Acceptance Activities

The Monetary Board, in its Resolution No. 498 dated 04 June 2026, approved the amendments to the Manual of Regulations for Payment Systems (MORPS), Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB), and Manual of Regulations for Non-Bank Financial Institutions (MORNBFI) pertaining to the enhancement of pricing mechanisms for transactions performed under the National Retail Payment System (NRPS) Framework, including the establishment of specific pricing structure for person-to-person (P2P) electronic fund transfers (EFTs), and the conduct of merchant due diligence by Operators of Payment Systems with Merchant Acquisition Licenses (OPS-MALs), in accordance with Section 6(a) and Section 6(d) (1) of Republic Act (RA) No. 11765 or the “Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act,” Section 3 of RA No. 7653 as amended by RA No. 11211 or “The New Central Bank Act,” and Section 6(d)(7) of RA No. 11127 or “The National Payment Systems Act.” 1

Section 1. The terms defined under the NRPS Framework, the Payment System Oversight Framework, and other relevant issuances of the Bangko Sentral shall be complemented by the following definitions, which shall be included in the MORPS/MORB/MORNBFI:

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Off-us (transactions or transfers) – payment transactions where the payer and the payee use accounts held at different financial institutions.2

On-us (transactions or transfers) – payment transactions where both the payer and the payee hold accounts at the same financial institution.3

Switch cost – refers to charges imposed by the Clearing Switch Operator (CSO) for each transaction processed through the clearing switch. Such charges are determined independently by the CSO based on commercially reasonable, market-driven principles.

Section 2. Section 201 of the MORPS/Section 803 of the MORB/ Sections 801-Q/501-S/401-P/501-N of the MORNBFI shall be amended to read as follows:

NATIONAL RETAIL PAYMENT SYSTEM FRAMEWORK

x x x

Specific rules applicable to transactions performed under the NRPS framework. The following rules shall apply to retail payment transactions which are cleared and settled in accordance with the NRPS Framework:

a. x x x

b. Fees on transactions. BSFIs shall adopt a policy on the imposition of fees on electronic payment transactions,4 which shall include the basis and quantitative support for the setting of fees and rationalization of the fee structure or amount. Imposition of fees for transactions performed by BSFls that meet the requirements in item “a” of this Subsection shall be consistent with the following:

(1) On consumer pricing mechanism –

(a) BSFls shall adopt a reasonable and fair market-based pricing mechanism, which does not arise from noncompetitive agreements with other BSFls to fix the price of product or service delivery in violation of Republic Act No. 10667 or the Philippine Competition Act. The pricing mechanism must be adequately supported by an analysis of the actual costs incurred in delivering electronic payment products and services, which shall be made available to the BSP in the conduct of its oversight activities. Such cost analysis is expected to include the categories described in Appendix 2012, along with any additional relevant cost categories identified by the BSFI.

(b) The pricing mechanism should be designed to uphold fairness across end-user groups. While differentiated pricing may be implemented based on sound business and operational considerations, BSFIs shall ensure that fee structures do not result in one user group unreasonably subsidizing the cost of serving another. In this regard, fees charged for off-us P2P EFTs should not materially differ from those charged for on-us P2P EFTs and any switch cost directly attributable to the facilitation of off-us P2P EFTs.

(c) The service fees for electronic payments are expected to be lower than the fees collected from transactions made manually or over-the-counter (OTC) as electronic payments are considered to provide more efficient and cost-effective means of delivering service.

(d) For P2P EFTs, recipients shall receive the full amount as credit to their accounts, free of any charges or deductions. Such P2P EFTs shall not be treated as domestic remittance transactions under Sections 298/251-Q/241-S/202-N of the MORB/MORNBFI.

(2) x x x

x x x

Section 3. Section 503 of the MORPS is hereby amended to read as follows:

x x x

503.7

Governance for Merchant Acquisition Services. For OPSMAL, the following provisions shall govern merchant acquisition services:

a.

Merchant Management. x x x

(1) Merchant Due Diligence (MDD). A risk-based approach shall be undertaken depending on the type of merchant, business relationship or nature of transaction or activity and risk profile, consistent with Section 921/921-Q of the MORB/MORNBFI. An OPS-MAL shall formulate a risk-based and tiered MDD that involves reduced MDD for potentially low-risk merchants and enhanced MDD for higher-risk merchants, which shall include:

(a) Merchant identification. An OPS-MAL shall establish and record the true identity of their merchants and their beneficial owners, as applicable, based on official documents. They shall maintain a risk-based system of verifying the true identity of their merchants and their beneficial owners, as applicable, and in the case of corporate clients, require a system of verifying their legal existence and organizational structure, as well as the authority and identification of all persons purporting to act on their behalf.

Upon onboarding, an OPS-MAL shall also perform sanctions screening of the merchant, authorized signatories and beneficial owners, as may be applicable, pursuant to regulations on Targeted Financial Sanctions (TFS).5

(b) Merchant risk assessment. x x x

(c) Merchant monitoring. An OPS-MAL shall, at a minimum:

(i) conduct periodic risk-based monitoring of its merchants in terms of adherence to their agreements, declared business models, activities, customer profile and transactions;

(ii) maintain updated, reliable, relevant, and accurate records of merchants and monitoring activities in accordance with Section 924/924-Q of the MORB/ MORNBFI;

(iii) perform periodic sanctions screening of the merchant, authorized signatories, and beneficial owners pursuant to TFS implementation on asset freezing and prohibition to designated persons;

(iv) adopt appropriate AML systems that can monitor and flag potentially suspicious merchant transactions and conduct further investigation when necessary; and

(v) consider all other factors necessary in detecting red flag indicators in both the relationship with merchant and its transactions.

In an existence of a valid ground based on the suspension or termination clause in the governing agreement, an OPS-MAL shall immediately suspend or terminate any merchant payment acceptance relationship with a merchant without prejudice to the performance of appropriate due diligence and filing of suspicious transaction report (STR) and other reports, as warranted, consistent with existing BSP regulations and/or AntiMoney Laundering Council (AMLC) issuances.

b. x x x

c. Pricing Mechanism. Notwithstanding the consumer pricing mechanism rules under the NRPS Framework and subsequent relevant issuances, OPS-MAL shall adopt a pricing mechanism whereby merchant fees may be charged to merchants availing of merchant payment acceptance activities. Such pricing mechanism shall be reasonable, transparent, market-based, and proportionate to the cost of the services offered in order to sustain the business operations of the parties involved.6 Such pricing mechanism must also be supported by an analysis of costs incurred with respect to the OPS-MAL’s merchant payment acceptance activities.

x x x

Section 4. Reportorial Requirements. The requirement for BSFIs to disclose fees on electronic payments in accordance with BSP Memorandum No. M-2018-013 dated 28 March 2018 shall remain in effect. BSFIs may be required to provide additional documentation to substantiate pricing mechanisms for fees assessed as unreasonable following a review of periodic disclosures.

Section 5. Effectivity. This Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days following its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

FOR THE MONETARY BOARD:

(Sgd) ELI M. REMOLONA, JR. Governor

DOE suspends WTE auction

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy suspended indefinitely a special round of the Green Energy Auction Program scheduled for August that covers 230 megawatts of waste-to-energy (WTE) projects.

“The DOE informs all interested participants and stakeholders that the activities and proceedings under the Special Auction Round for Waste-toEnergy (WTE) are hereby put on hold until further notice,” the department said in an advisory.

The department did not provide an explanation for the suspension, but sources said it is likely due to the reserve price that the Energy Regulatory Commission approved at P9.2959 per kilowatt-hour. The rate is deemed too

high at a time when the Philippines is already grappling with expensive electricity costs.

The final reserve price, which serves as the ceiling price for bids and followed a series of public consultations, is higher than the preliminary rate of P8.0167 per kilowatt-hour.

The auction is specifically dedicated to pioneer biomass waste-toenergy projects.

The ERC recognizes WTE as a baseload renewable energy technol-

ogy that integrates electricity generation with municipal solid waste management, which entails distinct technical, operational, environmental and financing considerations.

The regulator said it is mandated to protect the public interest, exercising due diligence in deciding on the final price while ensuring the continued viability of biomass waste-to-energy developers.

The DOE began the registration of qualified suppliers on May 25, formally opening activities for the auction dedicated to thermal combustion waste-to-energy technology.

The auction was launched on Dec. 30, 2025, but the issuance of the notice of auction and terms of reference, followed by supplemental terms of reference published on April 28,

2026. The auction covers a total capacity of 230 megawatts, with delivery scheduled between Sept. 1, 2028 and March 31, 2029. Under the terms of reference, registration will commence 1 working day after the release of the auction price, which was on May 22, 2026.

The electronic bidding platform will rank bids received automatically from the lowest to the highest price offers and stack them until the installation target is met. The platform will consider the bids with the lowest price offers first to meet the installation target.

The supply delivery period for any winning bidder will be 25 years.

The department set the auction proper for Aug. 7, 2026 and the issuance of the certificate of award for Oct. 13 to Oct. 15, 2026.

Customs seizes P13.5b worth of smuggled goods

By Othel V. Campos

THE Bureau of Customs seized more than P13.5 billion worth of smuggled and counterfeit goods nationwide from January to June 17, 2026, with illicit cigarettes and tobacco products accounting for the largest share at P5.6 billion.

Bureau of Customs deputy commissioner Emmanuel Luis Licup announced the figures on Thursday at the 3rd International Tobacco Summit 2026, an event organized by the National Tobacco Authority.

Licup said the bureau continues to intensify operations against illicit trade to protect legitimate businesses, safeguard tobacco farmers and secure government revenues.

The bureau also confiscated some P1.6 billion worth of illegal vape and similar products year-to-date.

Justin Arcenas (seated, fourth from left).

For the detailed registration and voting procedures, please visit https://www.nihaominerals.com and refer to the “Guidelines for Participation via Remote Communication and Voting in Absentia and through Proxy.” Stockholders who wish to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to vote in absentia should notify the Office of the Corporate Secretary through a Letter of Intent to be sent via e-mail to nihao.8888@yahoo.com on or before 29 June 2026. Validated stockholders will be provided access to the live streaming of the meeting and can cast their votes in absentia on or before 8 July 2026 through NiHAO’s secure online voting facility. All votes cast shall be subject to validation.

NiHAO is not soliciting for proxies. Stockholders who are unable to join the meeting but wish to vote on items in the Agenda by proxy must submit their duly accomplished proxy forms via email to nihao.8888@yahoo.com, not later than 8 July 2026

Stockholders of Record may send their inquiries and comments to the Management Report and other items in the Agenda to nihao.8888@yahoo.com on or before 8 July 2026

IN BRIEF

SunAsia, VinEnergo eye floating solar project

RENEWABLE energy firm SunAsia Energy Inc. and Vietnambased VinEnergo have formed a strategic partnership to build a 422-megawatt-peak solar-on-water portfolio in the Philippines for some $406 million.

The deal represents a major step forward in green energy cooperation between the two Southeast Asian nations. Targeted for commercial operations between 2027 and 2028, the three projects will be among the first large-scale, pile-mounted solar-on-water developments in the Philippines, located across the provinces of Pampanga and Negros Occidental. Once fully operational, the installations will generate enough clean electricity to power more than 278,000 homes annually. They will also avoid approximately 460,888 tons of carbon emissions each year, which equals the carbon sequestration of around 21 million trees.

The portfolio will utilize “solar-on-stilts” technology, an innovative model where workers elevate solar panels on concrete pile structures above water areas. This design allows existing aquaculture and fishpond operations to continue uninterrupted beneath and around the panels, addressing the critical food-energy-water nexus while protecting local livelihoods.

“This partnership was born out of the shared resolve of SunAsia Energy and VinEnergo to advance energy security, support economic growth, improve the lives of our people, and help protect the planet,” SunAsia Energy president and chief executive Tetchi Capellan said. Alena Mae S. Flores

Interpol issues notice for MFT

Group CEO

THE International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) has issued a red notice against MFT Group of Companies Inc. chief executive Maria Francesca Tan following a request from the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The move is part of the SEC’s efforts to bring Tan before local courts over her alleged involvement in a large-scale investment fraud scheme. An Interpol red notice requests law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and temporarily arrest a wanted person pending extradition or other legal action. The Taguig City Regional Trial Court issued a warrant for Tan’s arrest on charges

The combined P7.2 billion worth of cigarette, tobacco and vape seizures demonstrates significant gains in enforcement efforts against illicit trade, which deprives the government of revenues and undermines legitimate industry players, Licup said.

“These form part of the Bureau’s broader enforcement accomplishments, which have resulted in the seizure of more than P13.5 billion worth of smuggled and prohibited goods nationwide,” Licup said.

Licup said the ultimate measure of success is accountability, noting that those responsible for financing, organizing and facilitating illicit trade must be identified, investigated, prosecuted and held accountable under the law.

To strengthen enforcement, the agency said it works closely with the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation and the National Prosecution Service. This cooperation covers the entire process from intelligence gathering and evidence collection to case build-up, prosecution and conviction.

DoubleDragon acquires 98.61% of MerryMart, plans delisting

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DOUBLEDRAGON Corp. said Thursday it acquired 98.61 percent of the outstanding shares of MerryMart Consumer Corp. following a mandatory tender offer that drew strong participation from minority shareholders.

The acquisition is part of DoubleDragon’s strategy to integrate MerryMart into its broader business ecosystem, which includes retail developer CityMall, DDMP REIT, warehouse operator CentralHub and hospitality chain Hotel101.

DoubleDragon previously indicated plans to delist the grocery and convenience store operator from the local bourse if its ownership surpassed the 95 percent threshold.

DoubleDragon accepted 4.83 billion common shares tendered during the offer period from May 18 to June 16. Combined with an earlier

block sale transaction, the accepted shares raised DoubleDragon’s total stake to 98.61 percent. DoubleDragon launched the mandatory tender offer after acquiring a 35 percent stake in MerryMart last year.

The tender offer allowed minority shareholders to exchange their holdings for a combination of cash and DoubleDragon shares.

“The recalibration should strategically benefit both entities over the long run,” DoubleDragon chairman Edgar Sia II said.

Sia said the transaction allows the group to streamline operations and improve cost efficiency across its businesses.

MerryMart is a retail venture founded by Sia and Jollibee Foods Corp. chairman Tony Tan Caktiong, and it has been expanding its grocery and convenience store operations nationwide.

PH proposes maritime security app for seafarers

THE Philippines has proposed the development of a dedicated mobile application designed to give seafarers direct access to emergency assistance, realtime security alerts, and government support while navigating high-risk maritime areas.

Supported by the EU CRIMARIO initiative, the proposal was presented by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) during the 4th Steering Committee High-Level Meeting of the Indo-Pacific Regional Information Sharing (IORIS) platform, held in Mombasa, Kenya.

The summit gathered maritime authorities and security agencies to discuss strategies for strengthening regional cooperation and information sharing.

MARINA Enforcement Service (ES) Director Luisito U. delos Santos stated that the proposed platform would serve as a vital link between seafarers and government authorities. Through the app, crew members could receive critical advisories and instantly report emergencies while at sea.

According to MARINA, the initiative was prompted by the increasing security challenges

PITX,

confronting seafarers operating in areas affected by piracy, armed conflict, geopolitical tensions, and other maritime threats.

The Philippine delegation cited recent incidents in the Red Sea and other high-risk maritime corridors, noting that seafarers are often among the first to experience the impact of maritime disruptions yet may have limited access to timely information and assistance.

The mobile application would provide navigational advisories, maritime security notifications, welfare-related information, and emergency reporting features, while enabling seafarers to directly communicate with relevant government agencies when immediate assistance is needed.

The app proposal aligns with the Philippines’ ongoing shift toward digital maritime solutions.

MARINA has already implemented

Megawide Foundation spearhead school rehabilitation in Parañaque

IN SUPPORT of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Brigada Eskwela program, the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), alongside the Megawide Foundation, spearheaded a volunteer-driven school rehabilitation activity at San Antonio Elementary School in Barangay San Antonio, Parañaque City. The initiative aimed to restore hope and revitalize the school community following a recent devastating fire in the area.

The corporate-led bayanihan effort brought together employee volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to improve the learning environment for both students and teachers ahead of the school opening. Volunteers successfully cleaned and repainted more than 70 classrooms, ensuring a welcoming environment for thousands of returning learners.

As part of the community effort, PITX turned over cleaning materials to support the school’s ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation activities. Meanwhile, Megawide Foundation distributed 420 school supply kits to students and families affected by the recent fire incident in the area, helping ease their preparations for the upcoming school year.

Further strengthening the support for education, the Knowledge Channel Foundation partnered in the initiative by donating television units that will serve as learning tools and enhance classroom instruction.

“Brigada Eskwela is more than preparing classrooms — it’s about bringing communities together to support education and uplift those facing challenges. Through the collective efforts of our volunteers and partners, we hope to provide a safer, more inspiring environment where students can continue learning and pursuing their dreams,” Jason Salvador, director Corporate Affairs and Government’s Relations said.

The activity reflects PITX’s continued commitment to community development and education, recognizing the vital role schools play in shaping future generations. Through partnerships with organizations that share the same vision, PITX seeks to create meaningful and lasting impact beyond transportation services.

Lufthansa

electronic certificates (e-certificates) for seafarers, ensuring the secure, paperless issuance of official credentials that meet international standards.

It mirrors broader global initiatives.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), in partnership with Lloyd’s Register OneOcean, recently developed ISF Verify—a cloudbased platform built to streamline the global transition to digital seafarer certification.

The verification ecosystem complements national systems such as MARINA’s MISMO, which manages seafarer documentation and records. Darwin G. Amojelar

San Miguel tollway unit defends Roxas Boulevard tree-clearing

SAN Miguel Southern Access Link Expressway Corp. (SMC SALEX) defended its tree-clearing activities along Roxas Boulevard, claiming a viral video showing uprooted trees captured only a fraction of a highly technical, multi-step relocation process.

The company said it is coordinating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), which is conducting an inspection and review of the site.

SMC SALEX said it is prepared to provide the documents, site records, and other information that may be required by the agency.

It added that based on the initial account of its contractor, preparatory and earth-balling procedures were undertaken at the site as part of the tree relocation process.

The process involves several steps, including preparatory work that may vary depending on the tree’s condition, size, species, root system, and site constraints. These activities must still be carried out in accordance with applicable permits and protocols.

The company also clarified that night-time work in the area is covered by approved work-hour permits and is scheduled during off-peak hours to minimize disruption to traffic flow, pedestrian movement, and nearby activities along Roxas Boulevard.

While DENR’s inspection and review are ongoing, SMC SALEX said it has reminded its contractor and field teams that all ongoing and succeeding works must strictly comply with DENR permits, approved procedures, and proper tree relocation protocols.

The video, it added, also appeared to have been taken from inside an active work area, raising safety concerns over possible unauthorized access to a controlled construction site. It said such areas are restricted for the safety of workers and the public.

“Unauthorized entry into an active work site can put individuals and workers at risk. We respect the public’s right to raise environmental concerns, but these matters are best addressed through the proper agencies and technical review process,” the company said.

SALEX remains subject to environmental permits, mitigation measures, and compliance requirements. Tree removal and earthballing along affected sections are covered by the applicable permitting process and are subject to conditions set by the relevant agencies. Where trees are suitable for earthballing, relocation must be done in accordance with permit conditions and environmental protocols. Where removal is unavoidable, replacement planting and other mitigation measures are required.

“The need to improve mobility does not lessen our responsibility to protect the environment. That responsibility extends to the way work is carried out on the ground,” the company said.

SALEX, a government-approved transport project, is intended to help address mobility constraints while broader, long-term efforts to decongest Metro Manila continue. The project is designed to support commuters, motorists, public transport users, cargo vehicles, and businesses across Metro Manila and nearby growth areas.

Technik facility to cement Clark as premier aviation hub

LUZON International Premiere Airport

Development (LIPAD) Corporation, the operator of Clark International Airport, said that Lufthansa Technik Philippines’ planned base maintenance facility will further solidify Clark’s position as a premier aviation and aerospace hub in the country.

The new base maintenance facility was announced during the state visit of German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to

the Philippines. It will complement Lufthansa Technik Philippines’ existing operations in Manila and expand the company’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region. Lufthansa Technik Philippines, a joint venture between Lufthansa Technik and MacroAsia Corporation, will develop the facility on a 157,000-square-meter site at Clark International Airport. Designed to accommodate up to nine

Noel Manankil, LIPAD commercial manager Paolo Santos, Lufthansa Technik Dr. Janna Schumacher, and (covered) chairman Soeren Stark, LIPAD head of engineering Alveen Tabag, Lufthansa Technik Philippines president and chief executive officer Holger Beck.

MPTC promotes responsible driving

METRO Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), alongside its subsidiaries NLEX Corporation and MPT South reinforced its commitment to safer roads through the “Mission Road Safety BiyaHero Caravan.” The initiative brought together national government agencies, local government units, transport groups, and private sector partners to enhance the practical skills, safety alertness, and responsible driving culture of public utility drivers and operators.

Held across two legs at One Ayala in Makati City and Victory Plaza in Caloocan City, the caravan drew 284 jeepney, UV Express, and bus drivers from 42 transport organizations for interactive learning sessions focused on road safety.

“At MPTC, safety remains at the core of everything we do. Through programs like the BiyaHero Road Safety Caravan, we aim to further equip drivers with the knowledge they need to make safer decisions on the road. While protocols and systems are in place to enhance road safety, achieving safer journeys requires the

shared responsibility and cooperation of all road users,” West Dionisio., MPTC Chief Operations and Maintenance Officer said.

Participants also benefited from free eye screenings and prescription eyeglasses, while Easytrip representatives provided on-site assistance for RFID installation and transaction concerns.

The road safety caravan was conducted in partnership with the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), the Department of Health (DOH), the Road Safety Division of the Provincial Government of Cavite, the Public Safety and Traffic Management Department of the City Government of Caloocan, One Ayala, and Victory Plaza.

“We in the government are united with you in maintaining discipline and road safety. As professional drivers, we always think that we are leaving to earn a living for our families, so we always make sure that we return home safely to them. To ensure this, we need discipline, patience, and awareness on the road,” said TRB Regulation Division Chief Joz Carlos Ordillano.

widebody aircraft bays, the facility is expected to begin operations in 2028.

“This investment by Lufthansa Technik reflects the confidence global aviation leaders have in Clark International Airport and in the opportunities available in Central Luzon,” Noel F. Manankil, LIPAD president and chief executive said.

“The airport was designed to support growth, and developments such as this demonstrate Clark’s ability to accommodate world-class aviation operations. We are proud to support investments that create high-value jobs, encourage technology transfer, and contribute to the continued development of the Philippine aviation industry,’ he added.

The facility will become Lufthansa Technik’s second location in the Philippines, complementing its long-standing operations at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Together, the two sites will strengthen the company’s ability to serve airline customers across Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Middle East.

As Lufthansa Technik’s competence center for widebody aircraft maintenance within its global network, Lufthansa Technik Philippines currently specializes in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of Airbus A330, A340, A350, and A380 aircraft, as well as Boeing 777 aircraft. The Clark facility will also add support for the Boeing 787, further expanding the company’s service portfolio.

FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

ANTICIPATION

is building for the ninth edition of The Eddys (Entertainment Editors’ Choice), set for July 5 at the Ceremonial Hall of the Marriott Grand Ballroom at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, with the awards night promising a glossy showcase of Philippine cinema’s biggest names and brightest talent.

The 9th Eddys rolls out red carpet for Filipino film excellence

Outstanding Filipino films released across various platforms over the past year will compete for

in 14 categories,

and

The program will

and

of

Brother Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0 in a special production number with the cast of the advocacy drama I’m Perfect Kapuso actor and AKTOR PH founding president and chairman Dingdong Dantes will present accomplished and ongoing initiatives in partnership with SPEEd as both groups continue developing community engagement programs and industry collaborations. Singer Jamie Rivera will lead a heartfelt performance for the posthumous tribute segment. Closing the program will be performances

MRS. Universe Philippines 2026, one of the country’s premier pageants for married women and mothers, has officially started with thirteen candidates vying for the coveted title. A strong contender is newly sashed and crowned Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026-Taguig City Scarlet Chua

A devoted wife and mother of three boys, the 36-year-old Chua graduated with a degree in BS Medical Technology from Centro Escolar University and is a licensed medical technologist.

“I have long dreamed of becoming a beauty queen, and I think this is just the right time when this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete in a national pageant came about. But before being a beauty queen, I am a mother first,” Chua said, adding that she is fully supported by her husband.

“My family will always be my first priority. I just wish to show people that motherhood is not a hindrance in chasing your dreams. We just have to remain focused on becoming the best version of ourselves while waiting for the opportunity to come,” she went on.

Chua is passionate about her ‘Harmony Across Cultures’ advocacy, fostering deeper respect and awareness for the traditions and values of both Chinese and Filipino culture and heritage. As a Fil-Chinese mother, she aims to help bridge the gap between Filipino and Chinese communities by promoting language appreciation, cultural awareness, and mutual understanding.

“Growing up, I was proud of my Filipino

from Andrea Gutierrez and singer-songwriter David Young The 9th edition of The Eddys is directed by concert director Calvin Neria and

as the group’s way of encouraging Filipino filmmakers, producers, writers, actors, and other allied artists in the Philippine movie industry to continue pursuing their passion for creating films that mirror the realities of society while also recognizing artistic merit and box office impact. More details are available on the official Facebook page of The Eddys (The Entertainment Editors’ Choice).

will present key accomplishments and ongoing initiatives in partnership with SPEEd

Headlined by Dennis

and Jennylyn

, the series delivers a thrilling blend of action, suspense, and comedy.

It follows two police officers, Antonio “Tonyo” Conde (Trillo), a skilled investigator known for improvising in solving cases, and Roberta “Bobby” Enriquez (Mercado), a bubbly and competitive officer. Both carrying personal losses, the pair are drawn together by a high-profile murder case linked to people

close to them. As the investigation unfolds, they are forced to confront their past while working to solve the crime. The series also stars Joross

Liezel

Juancho

Sam Pinto, and

artists

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

The art of hitting the heart

Random Talk Kate Adajar

WHEN a screenwriter grows into many roles in life—husband, father, and mentor—his understanding of the human heart grows with him. The emotions he writes no longer come from imagination alone but from real experience. This allows him to hit audiences with precision. Filipino filmmakers like Benedict Mique , whose stories seem to find the emotional bull’s-eye with every project, leave us, viewers, reaching for tissues because of relatable storytelling.

That was the undeniable pull of Lolo and the Kid , the Netflix tearjerker that resonated with viewers around the world and became one of the platform’s biggest Filipino hits in 2024. Behind that sincerity was a filmmaker who has built a career telling stories that make an impact because they begin from a place of honesty.

For almost three decades, the founder of Lonewolf Films has quietly established himself as one of the industry’s most dependable storytellers. Way before directing films, he was writing for now-television classics such as Maalaala Mo Kaya and Tabing Ilog, training under Jerry Lopez-Sineneng, Rory Quintos, and Olivia Lamasan before eventually going behind the camera himself. He deliberately spent years mastering screenwriting first.

Fresh out of college, Direk Benedict couldn’t even afford a computer and submitted handwritten scripts on yellow pad paper. A life-changing act of generosity from National Artist Ricky Lee, who lent him P21,000 to buy his first desktop computer, opened doors that shaped his career. In 2022, Benedict paid that kindness forward by mentoring young writers and even providing laptops to aspiring storytellers who simply needed an opportunity to begin.

The emotional authenticity is no accident. As a husband and father, Benedict writes from a place of lived love, responsibility, and vulnerability. Those experiences have sharpened his instincts as a storyteller.

Even his recent project, The Maple Leaf Dreams, starring Kira Balinger and L.A. Santos, grew from his own life. Built on family, long-distance love, and the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers, the film drew inspiration from Benedict’s experience of constantly traveling between the Philippines and Canada, where his wife is based. Like much of his work, it transformed personal experience into a story.

This year, the director-storyteller returns with another deeply personal project, Little Hope, a film he describes as being about death but, more importantly, about love.

Little Hope revolves around death, but through the eyes of a child whose greatest concern is not her own fate. The film follows a young girl battling cancer,

‘Lilo & Stitch’ voice actress Daveigh Chase dies at 35

ACTRESS Daveigh Chase

was the titular voice of Lilo in the Disney animated feature film & Stitch , died Tuesday in Los Angeles, according to US media. She was 35. Her father John David Schwallier told the Times that Chase died in a hospital from complications of bacterial meningitis and a blood infection.

Schwallier told the his estranged daughter began struggling with drugs at age 13, and had been homeless and living in Los Angeles, near the hospital where she died.

Chase was 11 when Lilo & Stitch became a box office hit and stayed on as the character’s voice for television and video game projects. She was also cast as the English language voice of Chihiro, the lead heroine in Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, which won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature.

Daveigh Chase leaves behind a screen legacy that spans ‘Lilo & Stitch,’ ‘Spirited Away,’ ‘Donnie Darko,’ and ‘The Ring’

Her career as a child actor included live-action work, and she appeared in a Campbell’s Soup commercial and played a kid sister to Jake Gyllenhaal in his title turn as Donnie Darko In 2002’s The Ring, Chase played the part of villain Samara Morgan who crawled out of televisions, with her long black hair obscuring her face, to terrify viewers. The performance earned her the “Best Villain” MTV Movie Award in 2003.

The premise alone is heartbreaking, but Benedict insists the film goes beyond dying, featuring a little heart’s capacity to love big time.

“Even while I was writing it, I found myself crying over and over,” he admitted. “I wasn’t even finished with the script yet, and it was already bringing me to tears.”

That emotional response extended beyond the writer’s desk. Benedict recalled that when he first pitched the story to stars Pepe Herrera and Yassi Pressman everyone in the room ended up in tears. The same thing happened with cast members and crew who later read the screenplay.

For Yassi, who also serves as co-producer, the script immediately stood out. She said,

“I couldn’t stop crying while I was reading the script.” Yassi described the film as both heartbreaking and inspiring while praising child actress Cailey Magno, who stood out among auditionees for the role.

TMZ identified her boyfriend as Roy Hernandez and cited a fundraising web page he created to fund her health care wherein he detailed some of her hardships.

“After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown LA,” Hernandez wrote on the page. “Together, we found moments of happiness and hope.”

Chase’s representation did not immediately respond to a query from AFP AFP

illnesses often worry less about themselves. They are concerned about the loved ones they will leave behind. That insight became the emotional basis for Little Hope

“It’s inspirational,” Benedict said. “It reminds you to make the most of the time you have with the people you love.”

That seems to have long been

Direk Benedict Mique’s gift. He doesn’t create tearjerkers to simply make audiences cry. He writes stories rooted in the life he has lived and the people he loves, reminding viewers to hold their families closer, savor the time they still have together, and find hope even in life’s most painful moments.

“After watching this film, all you’ll want to do is hug the people you love,” he warned. Like Lolo and the Kid Little Hope is another story born from the heart. Direk Benedict’s body of work proves that the tears drawn from viewers’ eyes are those triggered by a film’s truthful parts.

Research also grounds the film’s emotional foundation. Benedict consulted doctors who explained that children facing terminal

By Angelica Villanueva

ANGELA Morena, Micaella Raz, and Stephanie Raz may be among VMX’s most recognizable sisters, but the trio says rivalry has never been part of their relationship, even as they continue building individual careers in the same industry.

The three actresses reunite in Triple Threat, VMX’s newest specialinterest feature that offers viewers a closer look at their lives, careers, and bond as sisters.

Streaming on June 26, the project also marks another milestone for the siblings, who have spent the past five years establishing themselves as familiar faces on the streaming platform.

Despite working in the same field, the sisters said they have managed to avoid the competition often associated with showbiz families.

“Sa aming tatlo, wala po, as in zero. Wala po. In all honesty, wala po talaga. Sobrang nakakatuwa lang po kasi sa amin. Very open po kasi namin sa isa’t isa,” said Micaella.

Instead of comparing careers, the sisters said they often spend time discussing projects, sharing experiences from shoots, and supporting one another behind the scenes.

Stephanie admitted that their disagreements are usually far removed from work.

“Kahit mag-away-away po kami, pero hindi dahil sa work po. [ on sa damit at gamit]. Lalo na sa damit,” she shared.

The actress joked that Micaella often borrows clothes without permission, only to make up for it later by buying replacements.

While the special highlights their closeness, it also reveals the distinct personalities that have shaped their dynamic.

Angela described Stephanie as the most reserved among them but also one of the most fearless once people get to know her. Meanwhile,

No rivalry, just sisterhood

Angela Morena, Micaella Raz, Stephanie Raz

keep sibling rivalry out of their

Micaella was described by her sisters as affectionate and protective despite her outspoken image.

For her part, Micaella acknowledged her reputation for being confrontational, saying she is often labeled “maldita” because she refuses to stay quiet when she feels wronged. Kapag alam kong tama ako, pinaglalaban ko lang po talaga. Hindi naman sa magmamaldita ako out of nowhere,” she explained.

The actress also addressed past misunderstandings involving fellow artists, saying she has dealt with false stories and gossip in the industry. While she admitted she once considered confronting those involved, she said she has become more measured over time.

“If that was before, susugod ko

careers

talaga. Pero ngayon, tumatanda ako. Hindi na siya nakakaganda,” Micaella said.

Beyond personal stories, Triple Threat serves as a retrospective of the sisters’ careers under VMX. The special revisits notable projects from each actress, including Micaella’s Bata Pa si Sabel Bangkera, and Sirena; Stephanie’s Kahalili, Hayok, and Ungol; and Angela’s Lady Guard, Pagdaong, and Palitan 2

The program also looks back on their journey from newcomers to VMX mainstays before culminating in their shared appearance in the psychological drama Panibugho

“We’re very grateful and very happy with our career. Marami na rin po kaming na-achieve,” Angela said.

Triple Threat streams exclusively on VMX beginning on June 26.

FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

By Nickie Wang

FROM architecture and healthcare to education, manufacturing, jewelry, and customized consumer products, 3D printing is steadily reshaping multiple industries in the Philippines as access to the technology becomes more affordable and widespread.

MakerLab CEO Mike Sy pointed to this widening application as proof that innovation tools once limited to professionals are now reaching students, hobbyists, and small entrepreneurs, helping bridge a long-standing gap in access to electronics and fabrication tools.

“The lack of access to affordable electronics in the Philippines was a clear gap in the market,”

The machine that builds tomorrow

printing is

and

“We started small, developing solutions to real problems and directly addressing the needs of our market,” he noted. Sy added that the local maker landscape has changed significantly over the past decade, with 3D printing, electronics, and

By Nickie Wang

WHAT if someone could make you say something you never said, sell something you never approved, or appear in a video you never filmed?

That question is no longer hypothetical. It is already happening. Artificial intelligence has not just changed how we create content. It has changed what it means to be a person online. As AI becomes part of everyday digital life, so does its shadow: deepfakes, voice cloning, identity theft, and synthetic replicas that can mimic real people with unsettling accuracy.

At a recent launch event in Quezon City, Filipino tech CEO Nijel de Mesa of NDMstudios described the issue in blunt terms: “Everyone’s likeness is already at risk.”

He is not wrong. A face is no longer just a face online. A voice is no longer just a voice. They are data points that can be captured, trained, and reproduced. And once that happens, control becomes complicated.

De Mesa’s company has launched NDM Verified Doppel, a platform that aims to both protect and license digital identities of public personalities.

The launch, held at Perfect B Lounge in Quezon City, drew a crowd of celebrities, business leaders, advertising executives, media

N O W & N E X T

robotics moving from niche technical spaces into classrooms and homes. Children as young as eight are now being introduced to these technologies through more accessible learning tools.

“We now see parents, children, and hobbyists actively engaging in this space,” he added, citing workshops where children even encourage their parents to participate.

MakerLab’s tagline, “Every Maker’s Choice,” reflects its goal of serving a widening community of creators, he explained. The customer base has expanded beyond engineering students and professionals to include families, hobbyists, and small business owners.

Growth in STEM education and stronger government support, including initiatives from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), have helped ease entry into the maker ecosystem.

He emphasized that access alone is not enough, stressing the importance of guidance for users navigating new technologies.

“Even with platforms like Shopee and Lazada, access alone isn’t enough. Guidance is equally important,” he noted.

On 3D printing, he pointed out that one of the biggest misconceptions is cost, with many assuming it requires large investments. In reality, entry-level machines are now available for around ₱13,000, making the technology more attainable for students and startups. He added that MakerLab established its Experience Hub to demonstrate this accessibility and show practical applications of 3D printing across different sectors.

Among these applications are architecture and construction components, customized retail products, toys and small-scale entrepreneurship, digital dentistry, medical modeling for surgical planning, and jewelry design and prototyping. These use cases highlight how the technology improves efficiency lowers production costs, and opens new business opportunities, particularly in emerging markets.

MakerLab recently marked a milestone with the launch of the Philippines’ first 3D Printing Experience Hub at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, coinciding with its 10th anniversary and Independence Day celebrations. The launch featured interactive zones showcasing live demonstrations and applications across education, engineering, healthcare, and design.

“This launch represents more than a milestone for MakerLab — it represents a new chapter for innovation in the Philippines,” Sy noted.

“We want more Filipinos to discover that 3D printing is no longer the future; it is a powerful tool available today for learning, business, creativity, and innovation.”

The event was supported by partners including Bambu Lab, Creality and Anycubic, along with marketing partner Transcend Studios. MakerLab plans to roll out workshops and learning programs nationwide to expand hands-on access to maker technologies.

becoming increasingly indistinguishable from reality for audiences scrolling quickly through screens.

That raises a deeper question: if your digital likeness can be copied, who owns it? Traditional intellectual property law protects logos, music, and creative works. But identity is different. It is not something you create once and register. It is something you live every day and, increasingly, something that can be extracted without permission.

“Our objective is to help protect artists and public personalities from misuse while preserving their reputation and brand,” said Jan Christine, co-founder of NDM Verified Doppel. Legal expert Attorney Jiji Jorge, co-founder of the initiative, puts it simply: “Technology can duplicate something even more personal—our identity.”

That gap between law and technology is where the tension sits.

The entertainment industry is particularly exposed. Celebrities already exist in a space where image is currency. Now that the image can be replicated, extended, and deployed without the person being present at all.

In theory, that opens new doors. A licensed digital version of an artist could appear in campaigns, content, or advertisements without the physical demands of travel and production. For smaller businesses, that could mean access to talent previously out of reach.

But the same system that enables access also formalizes replication. It turns identity into something that can be packaged, priced, and distributed.

That is where discomfort begins to creep in. Because if your face can be licensed, it can also be withheld. If your voice can be replicated, it can also be detached from you. The line between representation and replacement starts to blur.

The founders of NDM Verified Doppel insist the goal is protection, not exploitation. They describe a framework meant to detect misuse, prevent fraud, and give public figures control over how their likeness is used in AI systems. Still, the larger question remains unresolved: can identity be protected once it becomes data? There is no simple answer yet. Regulation is still catching up. Technology is not slowing down. And audiences are still learning how to tell what is real.