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US-CHINA AI TALKS SOUGHT AHEAD OF TRUMP-XI MEET
‘SHOOTER PLANNED AHEAD, WARNED OTHER CLASSMATES’
PH EXPORTS CARABAO MANGOES TO CANADA
WORLD / A6
NEWS / A2
BUSINESS / B1
No caucus on threshold—Win
Senate ‘focused on legislation’; Defense sees fewer votes to acquit By Ram Superable and Katrina Manubay
S
ENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian on Monday denied that senators held a caucus specifically to discuss the voting threshold in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, saying their meeting focused on legislative matters. “Legislation should be completed by the time we go on break because we have about three weeks. As I said, we need to finish as much legislation as possible. That is our primary agen-
da. There will be no other matters; the agenda will focus solely on legislation,” Gatchalian said in an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel. Next page
VOL. XL • NO. 217 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
Thousands rally across PH to mark Martial Law Year 54 By Vince Lopez, Pot Chavez and Katrina Manubay THOUSANDS of protesters gathered in Manila and other parts of the country Monday to mark the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law, while more than 17,000 police personnel were deployed nationwide. The Manila Police District estimated the crowd at Liwasang Bonifacio at 1,400 as of 4:07 p.m., which grew to around 2,200 along Recto Avenue by 7 p.m. according to the National Capital Region Police Office. Protesters later marched toward Malacañang, but the expected mass turnout of people dissatisfied with the administration did not materialize, the police said. Next page
FORGETTING IS NOT AN OPTION.
Demonstrators join a rally commemorating the 54th anniversary of the imposition of Martial Law in Manila on September 21, 2026. AFP
Shell staggers price hikes as diesel surges P8.80/l By Alena Mae S. Flores SHELL Pilipinas Corp. said it is implementing an increase of P8.80 per liter for diesel, which will be staggered in two payments, while other oil companies are expected to follow suit. Shell said it would increase diesel
prices by P7.80 per liter effective 6 a.m. today (Tuesday), followed by a P1-per-liter increase on Wednesday. Oil firms will increase gasoline prices by P4.80 per liter and kerosene by P6.40 per liter in a single adjustment. The Department of Energy has yet to announce the latest round of oil
price increases amid volatile global oil prices brought about by the Middle East crisis. An industry source said last week that oil prices had pulled back from the anticipated double-digit increase for diesel after recent efforts by Saudi AraNext page
Legarda extends medical leave further to Oct. 9 By Joel E. Zurbano SENATOR Loren Legarda has prolonged her medical absence, according to Senate Secretary Rey Bantug. Bantug said the senator’s medical leave encompasses three distinct periods: Sept. 21 through 23, Sept. 28 through Oct. 2, and Oct. 5 to 9.
This marks Legarda’s sixth consecutive request for medical leave “due to a serious illness. “ Senate leaders, including President Sherwin Gatchalian and Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, disclosed that Legarda is currently receiving treatment for health is-
sues related to her lungs, but did not provide specific details about her condition or recovery timeline. They added that despite Legarda’s eagerness to return to the Senate, she is undergoing treatment abroad, which entails strong medications and various medical tests to ensure her recovery. Next page
Conflict of interest? SEC confirms VP stayed as company director By Maricel V. Cruz and Joel E. Zurbano VICE President Sara Duterte remained a director of Metro City Chow Foods Corp. during her vice presidency, raising
questions about a possible conflict of interest even though prosecution records presented before the Senate impeachment court showed no dividends paid to her Next page
IMPEACHMENT WITNESS. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Company Registration and Monitoring Department Director Gerardo del Rosario takes the stand as a prosecution witness on Day 27 of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The prosecution is presenting evidence under Article II, which covers allegations of unexplained wealth, inaccurate SALN declarations, and continued business interests while in public office. SPPA Pool / Lino Santos
No ‘immediate’ fix to Visayas Saclag a win away from gold, power crisis, Yulo has 4 shots DOE admits
VICTORY. The Philippines’ Jean Claude Saclag pins his Japanese rival Daisuke
Murayama to the mat en route to a unanimous 3-0 victory in the traditional -65kg semifinals of the 20th Asian Games’ MMA competitions on Monday at the Nagoya City Inae Sports Center. POC Media
By Riera U. Mallari
By Maricel V. Cruz
NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)— Jean Claude Saclag moved within one victory of delivering the Philippines its first gold medal in the 20th Asian Games, while two-time Olympic champion Carlos Yulo kept four more golden opportunities alive in an action-packed Monday for Team Philippines. Saclag powered into the men’s traditional -65kg final with a commanding 3-0 semifinal victory over Japan’s Daisuke Murayama on Monday, putting him
LAWMAKERS have expressed dismay over the Department of Energy’s response to the continuing power shortage in the Visayas, with the DOE admitting to legislators that there was no “immediate solution.” “They have yet to come up with an immediate solution,” Committee on Energy chairman Rep. Jose Alvarez said during
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NEWS
A2
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
‘Suspect planned school shooting’ By Gabriel Oliva and Maricel V. Cruz
T
HE gunman in the Sept. 18 fatal incident at the Banga National High School in South Cotabato planned the shooting ahead and even warned some of his classmates to leave the premises before the attack, the Department of Education on Monday said.
Education Undersecretary Malcolm Garma said the Grade 9 shooter was allegedly able to use the school’s security gaps, including the absence of complete perimeter fencing, as leverage to enter the school with a firearm. “We have assigned guards or watchmen that were appointed by the local government unit... But the child was still able
to enter the premises armed since there are areas there in our schools that have not been enclosed or have holes in their enclosures,” Garma said in Filipino during a dzMM radio interview. According to the DepEd official, the suspect warned a few of his classmates to leave the school premises hours before the attack.
Saclag... From A1
No caucus... From A1
on the doorstep of a historic breakthrough in mixed martial arts. The Filipino controlled the bout with aggressive striking, neutralizing Murayama’s vaunted ground game to earn a unanimous decision and book a championship showdown with Tajikistan’s Otabek Rajabov on Tuesday. “Ramdam ko na mas malakas ako. Na-overpower ko siya,” said Saclag, who is now one victory away from the Philippines’ first Asian Games gold in MMA. Saclag plans to bring the same aggressive but calculated approach into the championship bout. “Sanay naman tayo lumaban sa finals kaya mas lalo akong na-inspire. Iba pa rin ’to. Asian Games ’to, eh,” Saclag said in a video interview with One Sports after the match. While Saclag stands closest to gold, Yulo also emerged from a turbulent opening day with three individual chances to add an Asian Games title to his glittering collection. The 26-year-old Filipino topped the floor exercise qualification with 14.600, then qualified sixth in the parallel bars with 14.266. He also survived a major scare in his specialty, vault, after a bad landing on his first attempt left his qualification in jeopardy. Yulo recovered on his second attempt and squeezed into the vault final as the seventh qualifier with an average of 13.649. “Hindi ‘yun ‘yung tamang pag-grab and nu’ng nalaglag ako, I was really disappointed but at the same time thankful and grateful na safe ako kanina kasi ‘yung ganu’ng pagkakamali, puwedeng matapos na ‘yung career ko,” he said. Despite a turbulent day, Yulo remained focused on the opportunities ahead. “May finals pa, may chance pa, may chance tayo magka-medal,” said Yulo. His finals campaign begins with the team event on Wednesday, followed by the floor exercise on Thursday and the vault and parallel bars on Friday. Yulo’s younger brother, Karl Eldrew, also reached the floor exercise final after placing fourth in qualifying with 13.966. He finished eighth in the all-around with 77.264, while also advancing to the horizontal bar final despite ranking ninth in qualifying under the two-per-NOC rule. Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Miguel Besana added another finals berth for the Philippines by qualifying fourth in the vault with 13.933. While Saclag and Yulo kept the country’s gold hopes alive, Carlos Alvarez added the Philippines’ second bronze medal in the games. Alvarez secured the bronze in the men’s traditional -77kg division, even after falling to Kazakhstan’s taller Yerkingali Burkutalin, 0-3, in the semifinals. The 27-year-old Filipino already assured himself of the medal when he reached the medal round by sweeping Indonesia’s Ananda Wahyu Setyo Prabowo, 3-0, in the quarterfinals before putting up a determined fight against Burkutalin. The Philippines also enjoyed a blazing start in men’s 3x3 basketball, with Gilas sweeping its first two Group A assignments. The young team, composed of players from the UAAP and MPBL, opened with a 19-12 victory over Mongolia before overwhelming Sri Lanka, 21-12, to finish the opening day unbeaten. Gilas 3x3 faces Kazakhstan on Wednesday, with a victory securing a quarterfinal berth.
The staff of Sen. JV Ejercito, who on Sunday said the caucus would push through, told Manila Standard that it did not happen and that the senators had gone home already. “Sen. JV also didn’t know why it was not discussed,” they said. The Senate Impeachment Court held Day 27 of Duterte’s trial in the morning, hearing the testimony of Securities and Exchange Commission Company Registration and Monitoring Department Director Gerardo Fernando del Rosario (see related story on A1 – Editors). Gatchalian’s statement contradicted earlier expectations that senator-judges would caucus last night to discuss whether the 16-vote requirement for conviction should be retained or modified amid the absence of several senator-judges. The issue is set to be taken up during oral arguments by the prosecution and defense panels on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Reports and social media posts confirmed that several Senate committees held sessions to hear national budget concerns and to resolve pending bills after the impeachment court adjourned, including passing the SAGIP BATA Act and the Comprehensive School Safety Act on third and final reading.
Defense sees votes for acquittal reduced
Meanwhile, Duterte’s defense team said Monday that lowering the threshold for conviction would also reduce the number of votes needed for acquittal. Defense trial spokesperson Michael Poa said the issue would be addressed during Wednesday’s oral arguments. “That is how it will work because it depends on the number of members— specifically, two-thirds of the total. So, the one-third portion would naturally decrease as well,” Poa said. “I think it was also mentioned that if the two-thirds portion is reduced, the one-
Legarda... From A1 This situation has raised concerns within the Senate regarding Legarda’s roles, particularly her committee vice chairmanship and other membership po-
Shell... From A1 bia to restore export capacity eased nearterm supply concerns. “Saudi Arabia is seeking to return half of its export capacity via the East-
Conflict... From A1 and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio, from their 18 corporations. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) official Gerardo F. del Rosario testified Monday that Duterte remained listed as a director in the company’s General Information Sheets (GIS) from 2022 to 2025. He also confirmed her 20% ownership stake in the corporation. Private prosecutor Erwin Matib questioned Del Rosario about Duterte’s corporate positions and the responsibilities of directors. The SEC official explained that a board
Thousands... From A1 The rally, organized by Kilusang Bayan Kontra Kurakot, was held at the designated freedom park. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan Secretary-General Raymond “Mong” Palatino said the protest was open to everyone but warned against attempts to disrupt it. “Our protest is open to everyone as long as we pursue our calls to hold Marcos and Duterte accountable and make all those who stole public funds, especially those at the top, answer for their actions,” Palatino said. “We need to remain organized because if the police become aggressive in dispersing our rally, our ranks must remain united and solid,” he added. Two men were detained for allegedly vandalizing the center island of C.M. Recto Avenue but were later released after police spoke with rally leaders. Protesters had earlier gathered along España Boulevard before marching to Recto Avenue. They attempted to proceed to Mendiola but were stopped by heavy security. Up north, progressive groups from across Benguet gathered at Malcolm Square in Baguio City for their mass action protest after assembling at the University of the Philippines-Baguio campus. Similar rallies were held in cities across the country.
He added the shooting was planned since last month, quoting Banga Mayor Albert Palencia who said that details from the suspect’s phone revealed that the attack was premeditated for a “long time.” In an effort, to aid the affected individuals of the recent shooting, especially school teachers, Garma said the Education department will expedite the hiring of school guidance counselors. For his part, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured residents of Banga, South Cotabato that no affected individual or family will be left behind following the school shooting incident. Beyond those directly impacted by the tragic incident, the Department of Social Welfare and Development is extending
its social welfare interventions to teachers, students, parents, and the broader municipal community who may suffer emotional and psychological trauma. The immediate deployment of DSWD personnel and social workers in the area follows the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure that the needs of all affected families are provided by the department’s Soccsksargen field office. “I am here because the President tasked us with ensuring that all the needs of the victims are met. We visited those who are still in the hospital. Aside from financial assistance, we assured them that the DSWD will cover all hospital bills,” Gatchalian said in mixed Filipino and English.
third portion would naturally decrease as well. But what will happen will be subject to the oral arguments to be conducted this Wednesday,” he added. Poa said the defense had not focused on whether a lower threshold would make it easier to secure an acquittal. “We are not thinking about that yet. We are obviously very firm in our position, whatever that is, you’ll find out on Wednesday,” he said. “We did not consider that kind of thing. We will be ready to confront those issues during our turn to present our evidence in chief,” he added.
should be based on senators actively participating in the trial. Retired Associate Justice Adolf Azcuna, however, said the Constitution requires a two-thirds vote of the entire Senate membership, or 16 votes. Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente Sotto III had earlier confirmed that senator-judges would caucus on the threshold, while Gatchalian said the impeachment court would ultimately decide whether to retain or modify the 16-vote requirement.
Senators want time to study arguments
Senator-judges earlier sought the views of four former Supreme Court magistrates on whether senators who are detained, in hiding or abroad should be counted in determining the votes needed to convict or acquit Duterte. Former Chief Justices Artemio Panganiban, Hilario Davide Jr. and Reynato Puno said the impeachment court has authority to change the 16-vote threshold, arguing that the requirement
The House prosecution panel, meanwhile, said it would respect whatever decision the impeachment court makes. Akbayan Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno said the prosecution was focused not on the voting threshold but on presenting the strongest possible evidence against Duterte. “We believe that this matter is truly in the hands of the Senate as the impeachment court. Whatever decision they make on this issue, we will respect it,” Diokno told Super Radyo dzBB. “We are not focused on the issue of the voting threshold. Our focus is on presenting the strongest possible case. Whatever decision the Senate impeachment court makes, we will abide by it,” he said. Lacson also rejected any connection between the impeachment proceedings and the Ombudsman’s investigation involving Senators Mark and Camille Villar, their family and officials of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. He said the Senate would base its decisions on witnesses, documents, arguments and the opinions of the former magistrates consulted on the threshold. The four senators whose status has fueled the threshold debate include Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta, who are detained over separate plunder charges; Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is in hiding amid an International Criminal Court arrest warrant; and Loren Legarda, who has been absent for weeks and is currently abroad.
sitions, suggesting that reassignment may be necessary if her absence persisted. The Office of the Ombudsman is currently investigating allegations of plunder associated with Legarda and her son, Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, in relation to an unfinished solar power franchise linked to Leviste’s company.
Legarda has denied any connection between her health issues and the ongoing investigations by the Ombudsman. Political analyst Ronald Llamas, however, expressed skepticism regarding the timing of Legarda’s medical leave, particularly in relation to a complaint filed against her and her son.
the panel’s joint hearing with the committees on Visayas Development and on Legislative Franchises yesterday. The hearing tackled the status of the Visayas power grid, particularly on reasons which have caused the repeated yellow and red alerts in the region, as well as the actual procurement of ancillary services and the corresponding costs being passed on to consumers. Alvarez inquired from the DOE on factors that contributed to the Yellow and Red Alerts in the Visayas despite the interconnected grid. “Why red and yellow? Why can’t Mindanao plants supply? Why can’t Luzon supply?” DOE Usec. Mario Marasigan told lawmakers that simultaneous outages of major power plants in Mindanao have limited the power that can be transferred to the Visayas. Only about 50 MW can currently be transferred because several plants remain unavailable, he said. Marasigan also acknowledged the Visayas’ lack of conventional and baseload generation, particularly in Negros. “Negros has no baseload power, except for one geothermal plant. It relies entirely on renewables—specifically solar. There is a lack of conventional power plants,” he said. Marasigan added the intermittency of renewable energy can further tighten supply when generating units go offline. He said the DOE’s focus is now on generation companies and the immediate return of unavailable plants. “The important thing is for the plants that are offline to come back online immediately,” he said. Despite these efforts, Marasigan warned that Yellow and Red Alerts could still occur in the second and third weeks of October, underscoring the continuing vulnerability of the Visayas power supply.
West pipeline within days and offering more cargos to Asian refiners through ship-to-ship transfers off the coast of Oman. Prices fell further after China reportedly asked Iran, acting on a request from Saudi Arabia, to limit attacks by Houthi rebels on Saudi oil infrastructure,” the source said.
He said tight physical supplies had limited further declines, adding that vessel traffic in the Strait of Hormuz continued to fall and remained risky. Ongoing Saudi-Houthi tensions also threatened renewed disruptions to Red Sea shipping and regional energy infrastructure. “Rising feedstock risks for Asian
refiners and tightening supplies due to refinery disruptions and maintenance continue to support the prices of middle distillates and diesel this week. Tight prompt supply and future supply concerns amid firm demand have driven Asian gasoline prices higher week-onweek as well,” he said. With AFP
of directors is legally tasked with exercising corporate powers, conducting the company’s business, and controlling its properties. The examination established that Metro City Chow Foods had an initial subscribed capital of P250,000, with Duterte subscribing to P50,000, equivalent to a 20% stake. Del Rosario said her reported paidup subscription reached P50,000 in the 2022 to 2024 filings, but the amended 2025 GIS showed the amount returning to P12,500. He did not explain the reason for the change. Matib said the prosecution would examine the couple’s corporate interests, company earnings, dividends, and reported sales to determine whether their
businesses contributed to the growth of Duterte’s declared wealth. He said the SEC and corporate records would establish the companies’ earnings and whether dividends had been declared or distributed to stockholders. “This is important because we want to see if these companies actually provided legitimate income to VP Sara Duterte that could help explain the increase in her declared net worth,” Matib said. The prosecution identified 18 corporations linked to Duterte and Carpio, including Metro City Chow Foods, GenCorp Industries, Cale88 Foods, and Carpio Lawyers. Matib said the records would show whether Duterte and Carpio received dividends from the companies,
adding that the prosecution’s records indicated “zero dividends” for the couple. Matib also cited companies that reported substantial sales during Duterte’s vice presidency, including GenCorp Industries. He said the prosecution would examine interlocking shareholders, directors, and officers, identifying Jaime T. Cruz as a name that repeatedly appeared in the SEC documents. The prosecution further alleged that Duterte’s declared net worth rose from P7.2 million in 2007, when she was Davao City mayor, to P98 million in 2025, when she was vice president. Matib said the corporate records would help establish whether Duterte’s business interests remained listed during her vice presidency.
Earlier, Ejercito said he hoped senator-judges would be given time to study the arguments and legal opinions on the threshold. “I’m asking for a few days, if possible, to absorb and study it,” Ejercito said. Sen. Panfilo Lacson likewise said the impeachment court could defer the Sept. 23 vote if some senator-judges needed more time. “I’d rather wait for the oral arguments on Wednesday because the prosecution and defense will share their ideas and arguments. It is better to listen to them to broaden the basis of our decision,” Lacson said. He said a motion could be made to defer the vote to the following week if necessary. The issue has gained significance because only 20 senator-judges are currently actively participating in the trial.
Ex-magistrates’ advice sought
House to respect court’s decision
No ‘immediate’... From A1
NEWS
A3 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
Protect delivery riders from criminal groups –PNP chief THE Philippine National Police will intensify coordination with ride-hailing companies and delivery rider groups to strengthen measures to keep riders safe and prevent their exploitation by criminal groups and syndicates. Concerned police units have been directed to hold dialogues with ride-hailing firms and rider groups to identify practical measures to strengthen protection of delivery riders, the PNP said in a statement on Monday. “We in the PNP will not allow any unscrupulous group or individual to exploit them and do something that will compromise the safety and the dignity of those in the ride-hailing and delivery services,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said. Earlier, two delivery riders in Marikina City reported a suspicious delivery to the police, which was later found to contain P150,000 worth of illegal drugs. Nartatez commended the riders for their vigilance and contribution to the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. He also reminded other riders to remain cautious and immediately report suspicious deliveries. “We urge our partners in the ridehailing and delivery services sectors to maximize the use of the Unified 911 Hotline to report suspicious bookings so that the police can immediately respond to their concerns,” he said. Vince Lopez
Samahang Plaridel resumes college journalism training READ THEIR UMBRELLAS. Members of the Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya and the World Beyond War Asia hold dozens of white umbrellas symbolizing their call for peace, their opposition to Pax Silica, and their support for a Free Palestine during the protest action dubbed ‘Peace Umbrellas: Shield to Continuous Rain of War and Militarism’ in observance of the International Day of Peace 2026 at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in Quezon City on Monday, September 21, 2026. Manny Palmero
DepEd expands school safety to digital spaces By Gabriel Oliva
T
HE Department of Education is preparing a nationwide campaign to help learners, parents and teachers address risks on social media, online games and other digital platforms as part of a broader effort to strengthen school safety. DepEd said the planned School Digital Safety Campaign will address online threats such as cyberbullying, grooming, scams, harassment, exposure to violent content and the misuse of personal information. The new campaign will focus on
what children and adults can do before and when problems arise online. It will provide age-appropriate guidance on safe chatting and online behavior, including responsible social media use, gaming safety, exposure to harmful online content, healthy
screen time, and digital well-being. Parents will also receive practical guidance on how to talk to their children about their online experiences, identify possible warning signs, set appropriate boundaries, and determine when to seek help. “Keeping our children safe today means understanding that their world extends beyond the classroom and into their phones, games, group chats, and social media,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said. “We need to give children, parents, and teachers the knowledge and tools to navigate these spaces safely.”
THE highly-successful Usapang Plaridel: Campus Journalism Workshop Series presented by the Association of Philippine Journalists-Samahang Plaridel will resume with its fourth edition at the Emilio Aguinaldo College, San Marcelino St., Ermita, Manila on Sept. 23. Veteran journalists Patricia Pangilinan Esteves of Philippine Star, Nestor Cuartero of the Manila Bulletin, Reynald Magallon of Manila Bulletin/ Tempo and Benjie Alejandro of Abante Radio will share their knowledge during the one-day event aimed at upholding the high standard of journalism even in the digital age. Esteves will talk about editorial/ news writing, Cuartero will discuss feature writing, Magallon will tackle sportswriting and Alejandro will teach about radio broadcasting. APJ-Samahang Plaridel chairman Rolando Estabillo will deliver the welcome remarks, while Atty. Hector Villacorta will give an introduction on the life of Marcelo H. Del Pilar, the “Father of Philippine journalism.” Samahang Plaridel president Evelyn Quiroz will present the certificate of participation to more than 80 campus journalists. No less than EAC president Dr. Jose Paulo Campos will welcome the journalism workshop of Samahang Plaridel. Dr. Campos tapped EAC Vice President Dr. Lorenzo Lorenzo, School of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Connie Luciano, High School Principal Dr. Juzy Saguil, Dr. Vinz Navarroza of ABCom, Magdalo school paper adviser Anielle Guzman, Communications Society head Basty Desierto, and Magdalo news editor Nicole Garcia to assist in the event.
NEWS
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
HB seeks socmed accountability, security guides By Maricel V. Cruz A House leader on Monday filed House Bill 4786, the Social Media Platform Franchise Act, to classify major social media platforms as public services that must secure congressional franchises to operate in the Philippines. The measure, authored by Deputy Speaker David Suarez, follows a string of school shootings that were once rare in the country and goes hand in hand with the congressman’s HB 9825, the Digital Safety of Minors Act, which seeks stronger ageassurance systems, parental consent rules, and safety-by-default protections for children online. On September 18, a 16-year-old student opened fire at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, killing two classmates, wounding eight others, and then dying by suicide. In August, a Grade 9 student livestreamed an attack on Facebook Live at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, killing a schoolmate before taking his own life. In June, two teenagers opened fire at San Jose National High School in Tacloban, killing three students and injuring about 20 others. These three deadly incidents in four months show how platforms used daily by more than 90 million Filipinos—who spend an average of three hours and 32 minutes on Facebook, TikTok, and similar services—have become critical digital infrastructure. When violent content spreads quickly, attacks are broadcast in real time, and local accountability is limited, the public harm is harder to contain.
Speaker Dy, House leaders honor Gov. Cua By Maricel V. Cruz THE leadership of the House of Representatives led by Speaker Faustino Dy III on Monday paid tribute to the late Quirino Gov. Dakila Carlo Cua, calling him a devoted public servant and local government champion whose legacy, he said, lives on in the people he served. In his eulogy during the necrological service held at the House on Monday, the Speaker said Cua consistently placed the needs and aspirations of Quirino and its people above his own. “Whenever we spoke, the causes he championed were never for himself. They were always for Quirino. Always for his fellow citizens,” the Speaker said. Dy recalled that Cua served Quirino as vice governor, governor, and representative of its lone congressional district before returning to the provincial capitol and continuing his service until the final days of his life. The former governor of Isabela cited Cua’s personal appeal for assistance in completing a sports facility in Quirino. While others might regard it as simply another government project, the Speaker said Cua saw it as an investment in the dreams and potential of the province’s young people.
TRIBUTE. House Speaker Faustino Dy III and congressional leaders pay tribute to late Quirino Gov. Dakila Carlo Cua during a necrological service at the House of Representatives, honoring his legacy of public service and commitment to the people of Quirino (see story below).
Senate approves school safety bill on 3rd reading By Ram Superable
T
HE Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading a measure seeking to establish a nationwide framework to safeguard public and private schools from physical threats and campus violence.
Senate Bill No. 2426, or the Comprehensive School Safety Act, passed unanimously with 17 affirmative votes, no negative votes, and no abstentions. Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said the legislation aims to bolster campus safety amid a rise in violent incidents involving students. “Violence should not be the cost of our goal to provide an education
for every child. It is saddening to think that the situation in schools has reached this point,” he added. The Senate chief also pointed out that the approved measure incorporates his previous proposal to ban the use of mobile devices and portable electronic gadgets inside schools during class hours. Senator Bam Aquino, for his part, highlighted three major legislative reforms introduced under the measure: child protection, mental health, and disaster response policies consolidated into a unified National School Safety Framework for public and private schools. The Department of Education will partner with other government agencies, local government units, and key stakeholders to formulate the framework, which will set unified standards for preventing, responding to, and recovering from campus security threats. To implement the national direc-
tive, all educational institutions are required to develop localized School Safety Plans that must be updated every three years. The localized plans will cover three primary operational pillars: risk assessment training, emergency response procedures, and multidisciplinary psychosocial recovery. Enhanced physical security protocols under the bill include mandatory bag checks at entry points, metal detectors, and closed-circuit television coverage in common campus areas. Support mechanisms for frontline educators are also included in the measure, featuring legal assistance, teaching load reductions, and mandatory safety capacity-building. “In times of crisis, every second counts. When there is a threat, our schools should not be left guessing whether to lock down or evacuate, or whom to call for immediate help,” Aquino said.
IN BRIEF Masbate shuts down tourism for conservation THE Masbate Provincial Tourism Culture & Arts Office (MPTCAO) has announced the temporary closure of Mount Bulalakaw in Barangay Sinalongan, Masbate City, to tourists and visitors as it develops a sustainable, community-led management plan for the mountain. In a statement, MPTCAO said the closure follows an assessment of the mountain’s management, environmental protection, and visitor safety. A coordination meeting brought together tourism officials, local leaders, and community members to discuss conservation measures. The office said the initiative includes improved local guide management, safety protocols, and site preservation, with community and barangay leaders overseeing onsite operations. The City Tourism Office will assist with policy, infrastructure, and safety oversight. MPTCAO urged hikers, travelers, and tour operators to avoid Mount Bulalakaw while operational and registration guidelines are being developed. It recommended Mayong Payong in Mobo and Mount Bagasimbahan in Baleno as alternative ecotourism destinations. Gabriel Oliva
QC iReport resolves 82% of submitted concerns NEARLY four months since its launch, the QC iReport has already resolved 4,580 of the 5,589 reports submitted by QCitizens and other users, translating to an 82% resolution rate as of August 31. The platform also recorded a 99% response rate, reflecting the city government’s efforts to acknowledge and act on reported concerns. Unresolved cases require further action, including inspections, repairs, and coordination with other agencies. Mayor Joy Belmonte said the platform supports the city’s efforts to digitize local government processes and provide residents with a direct channel to raise concerns, monitor government action, and seek assistance. Rio N. Araja
YULETIDE SEASON.
Christmasthemed displays emerge at popular attractions and shopping malls across the country as the Philippines begins its long Christmas season, with 95 days remaining until Christmas Day. Edd Castro
LPA forecast to enter PAR, turn into tropical depression
Japan’s new envoy arrives in Philippines By Katrina Manubay
FUEL PRICE PRESSURE. Motorists and motorcycle riders queue at a Petron station along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Monday, September 21 ahead of an expected major fuel price hike the following day. Edd Castro
JAPAN’S newly appointed Ambassador to the Philippines, Kitagawa Katsuro, vowed to further deepen bilateral ties as the two countries mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations. In his arrival message dated September 18, Kitagawa underscored President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae’s commitment to elevate the countries’ “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” saying he is determined to advance Japan-Philippines diplomatic ties. “Across a wide range of fields— including political and security partnerships, economic cooperation, and people-to-people and cultural ex-
changes—our bilateral relationship is showing unprecedented deepening and expansion,” his message read. “Furthermore, during the state visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos to Japan in May, Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and President Marcos agreed at their summit meeting to elevate our bilateral relationship to a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’—the first of its kind for the Philippines. Building upon this agreement as a new foundation, I’m determined to further advance our bilateral cooperation with renewed vigor,” he added. During President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to Japan, both countries also signed three agreements to deepen cooperation in smart cities, digital connectivity, and financial technology.
A LOW-PRESSURE area (LPA) is forecast to enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) by Tuesday or Wednesday and develop into a tropical depression by Thursday or Friday. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the system would be named “Queenie” if it develops into a tropical depression. It may also strengthen into a typhoon while crossing the Philippine Sea. The weather system may enhance the southwest monsoon starting Friday, while further intensification into a super typhoon cannot be ruled out, Pagasa said. The system is expected to head toward extreme Northern Luzon early next week. As of 8 a.m. Monday, it was located 2,045 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas and was not yet affecting the country’s weather. Rio N. Araja
OPINION
A5
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
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EDITORIAL
Honor Blanco Cabie
The view from the balcony PHILADELPHIA — For decades, our world was measured in column inches and airtime duration, breaking alerts, and the relentless hum of a Manila print or broadcast newsroom. For years in various newsrooms in Metro Manila, our desk was an island in a sea of chaos. We were the gatekeeper of other people’s dispatches, tied to a screen, processing opinion pieces and the world’s convulsions in real time. But stepping away from the daily grind during our leave from the Manila Standard offers a rare, quiet clarity. Standing inside the Independence Hall in this Pennsylvania capital with our essential whole and three children, the silence is deafening. Here, American Independence was drafted. For a Filipino journalist, the ghosts of this room feel intimately familiar. We know the heavy, sacred weight of forging a nation out of colonial defiance. Moving south to Washington, DC, the architecture of democracy stands tall, yet it feels deeply intertwined with our own newshound’s notebook. Gazing up at the Lincoln Memorial, we do not just see marble; we are reminded of the fragile scaffolding of liberty. Nearby at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, our mind drifts back to the early months of 1973. We were a young Reuters correspondent then, covering the emotional, raw return of American POWs from Hanoi. We were able to interview some, while competing with hundreds of American editors and reporters, including Lt. Cmdr. John McCain after debriefing at the Clark Air Base Hospital north of Manila before they were flown on to the US mainland. The names etched in black granite at the Veterans Memorial are not just history to us -- they are the faces of a generation we watched out of the dark. This year marks the 25th anniversary
of Sept. 11, a milestone that shatters any sense of professional detachment. In 2001, we were monitoring news developments abroad while the 60-minute prime time broadcast of the government-run Channel 4 was on that Tuesday night, Manila time. We saw on screen how New York’s Twin Towers fell one after the other with hijacked commercial airlines. We thought the first was an accident.
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For a Filipino journalist, the ghosts of the Independence Hall feel intimately familiar. The second, a few minutes after against the South Tower, quickly suggested to our newsman’s gut there was something else. This year, the scent of ash from 25 years back we smelled. We saw the images during this year’s celebration, the ash-covered faces of survivors running through Lower Manhattan. Back at our news editor’s desk at Channel 4 on Visayas Avenue in Quezon City, we edited those frantic frontpage stories -- in news just in -- with anxious hands. Now, standing near the National Mall, the chaos of the newsroom is replaced by a profound observing stillness. Editors rarely get to just watch: we are usually too busy to be reacting. But away from the desk, the threads tie together. From the birth of a nation in Philadelphia to the scars of Hanoi and the enduring echo of 9/11, history is not a series of deadlines. It is a living, breathing continuum -and sometimes you have to step out of the newsroom to finally see the whole picture.
‘I live in fear’: 1.5 million Pakistani children sexually exploited online By Shrouq Tariq ISLAMABAD — Pakistani teenager Zara Shah was targeted by a stranger while playing a computer game, drawn into a conversation that would expose her to terrifying online sexual exploitation. Zara, whose name has been changed by AFP for safety reasons, is one of an estimated 1.5 million children in Pakistan who experienced online sexual abuse in one year, according to a report published by the UN children’s agency this month. “We started chatting while playing an online game, and he began acting like a friend. Later, he wanted to meet and, after, started asking me for nudes,” 17-year-old Shah said. “When I refused, he threatened to find my family online and tell them that we had been talking,” she added. According to the UNICEF report, around 85 percent of perpetrators were known to the victims, aged between 12 and 17. “The abuse may start with a friendly conversation, a gaming interaction, a promise of gifts, money or romance,” Daniel Kardefelt, lead author of the global UNICEF report, told AFP. “Perpetrators may spend months building trust using information that they find on social media,” Kardefelt said. In Muslim-majority Pakistan, 71 percent of victims did not tell anyone, according to the UNICEF report, while no child surveyed reported the abuse through formal channels -- including police, helplines or social workers. Their silence was mostly because of stigma, shame and fears over how their families or society may react. “Around 44 percent of reported abuse was entirely online, with Snapchat and WhatsApp among the most common settings,” said Mehek Naeem, director of PAHCHAAN, a children’s rights organisation based in the eastern city of Lahore. Girls can face heightened risks of sexual extortion in the conservative society, which can lead to restrictions on their mobility or withdrawal from school. For Zara, the threat of being exposed to her family was enough to keep her silent. “I could have been stopped from going to school or leaving the house altogether,” she said. “Staying quiet felt like the better op-
tion than speaking up. But anxiety kills me every day.” Loopholes, ‘no implementation’ With around 74 percent of children aged 12 to 17 in Pakistan estimated by UNICEF to be internet users, concerns over online safety are growing as their access to digital platforms expands. Echoing other policies around the world, the provincial government in Punjab this month passed a resolution to bar children under 16 from using social media. However, it has faced opposition. “I disagree with the ban,” said Usama Khilji, a digital rights activist.
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The consequences of an encounter that began with an online game remain difficult to escape. “It will be a challenge to implement, and children can circumvent the ban through VPNs. Children have the right of freedom of expression, and a ban takes that away,” he said. Pakistan has a legal framework addressing tech-facilitated offences against children, but “there is no implementation,” said Tahira Afrasiyab, a spokesperson for non-profit organisation Muslim Hands. And, according to experts, there are loopholes in existing laws. Human rights lawyer Salman Afridi said this issue shows how “economic vulnerability can be weaponized” for amounts as small as 10,000 Pakistani rupees ($36) in exchange for the production of sexual content. “What we are seeing is the use of technology to facilitate an entire chain of grooming, inducement, coercion, blackmail, production, distribution and commercialisation,” he said. “There is a strong basis for describing this as a commercial ecosystem of exploitation,” Afridi added. For Zara and many others like her, the consequences of an encounter that began with an online game remain difficult to escape. “I was, and am, scared,” she said. “I live in fear.” AFP
S
ENATOR-JUDGES still have to resolve the conviction threshold for the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte. Earlier in the trial, presiding officer Senator Francis Escudero had said 16 votes were needed to convict the vice president. Article XI of the 1987 Constitution, under Accountability of Public Officers, says that “no person shall be convicted without the concurrence of twothirds of all the Members of the Senate.” There would be no problem if all 24 senators are present and actively participating in the trial, which began on July 6. Monday September 21 was the 27th trial day. The court is now hearing the third article on unexplained wealth, after hearing the articles on grave threats and misuse of confidential funds. But of the 24 senators, one is a fugitive from justice, two are in jail, and one is on extended medical leave in another country. Last week, four friends of the court – all retired Supreme Court justices, three of whom were chief justice at one point in their careers -- were invited to share their legal opinion on the matter. Former Chief Justice Hilario Davide said “all members” should not automatically mean all 24 senators. The framers of the 1935, 1973 and 1987 Constitutions could not have intended the term to include senators who had resigned or been expelled, those who are physically or mentally incapacitated, those
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I HAVE a confession to make. In 2012, I sued the Commission on Elections, asking the Supreme Court to force the commission to ban political dynasties without waiting for an enabling law. I lost. The Court told me Article II, Section 26 was not self-executing—Congress had to legislate first. I was told to wait. Fourteen years later, the Supreme Court has finally decided that waiting for Congress is like waiting for a jeepney at midnight in Bicol: it might come, but you would be dead by then. In a unanimous ruling handed down on August 26, 2026, the Court declared that Congress’s 39-year failure to pass an anti-dynasty law constitutes grave abuse of discretion. Congress must legislate, the Court said, “with utmost urgency.” So what changed? Not the Constitution. Only the Court’s patience. Let us be precise. The Supreme Court did not ban political dynasties. It did not disqualify anyone. It did not even define what a dynasty is. It simply told a coequal branch to do its job—after nearly four decades of that branch doing everything else except its job. The Court’s logic is elegant, if constitutionally precarious. “Shall” means mandatory. “As may be defined by law” grants Congress discretion over the content of the prohibition, not the existence of one. Therefore, refusing to legislate for 39 years is not merely lazy—it is unconstitutional. This is a doctrinal reversal so dramatic it deserves a warning label. In 2012 and 2013, the Court said the opposite, twice. Biraogo v. COMELEC established that the provision was non-selfexecuting. Guingona v. Congress and Penson v. Congress held that mandamus could not compel Congress to legislate because that would violate separation of powers. The Court was unequivocal: we cannot make Congress do anything. Now the Court says: actually, we can, when the inaction becomes grave enough. When exactly does that line get crossed? Thirty-nine years, apparently. Not thirty-eight. Not forty. Thirty-nine. There is no formula, only a vibe—and the vibe is exhaustion. Defenders will invoke the 1987 Constitution’s expanded judicial power under Article VIII, Section 1, which allows courts to review grave abuse of discretion by any branch. True. But that provision was designed to check actions, not inaction. You can review a decision. Can you review a non-decision? Can you mandamus a coordinate branch into exercising its core constitutional func-
PPI
Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers
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Two-thirds is not just another fraction. Former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban said “We must look at the intent and the purpose of constitutional provisions, the circumstances in which they operate, and the goals they seek to achieve.” He said constitutional interpretation cannot always be reduced to “abstract mathematics.” Former Chief Justice Reynato Puno said that if the intent was to fix and make 16 immutable, the law could have been written as 16 if they wanted it that way. Meanwhile, former Associate Justice Adolf Azcuna said that “all members”
tion when the text itself says the definition comes “by law”? Here is where my inner skeptic starts twitching. The House of Representatives passed HB 8389 on June 3, 2026— before the Court even ruled. It was authored by Speaker Faustino Dy III and Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos. The bill defines a political dynasty as spouses or relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity simultaneously holding elective positions within the same locality.
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Congress decided to redecorate while leaving the structural foundation untouched. Second degree. Same locality. Simultaneous only. That is the grand reform. Your father can be governor and you can be congressman in the same province, as long as you are not simultaneously holding elective positions in the exact same jurisdiction. Your uncle can be mayor of one town while your cousin is mayor of the next. Your family can rotate offices like a well-oiled game of musical chairs, and as long as nobody sits on the same chair at the same time, you are golden. Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega called it “the most realistic” approach. Translation: this is the weakest law we could write while still calling it an anti-dynasty law. And it was authored by the son of the sitting President and the Speaker from one of the country’s most entrenched political families. I am sure their motives are pure. I am sure the “most realistic” version just happens to preserve the exact political configurations that benefit them and their allies. Pulse Asia’s March 2026 survey shows 64 percent of Filipinos support banning political dynasties. Seventy-six percent of those want it to cover both national and local positions. The House version covers both—but only within the same locality. A father-son national-local combination? Perfectly legal. Party-list seats? The bill says nothing meaningful. Succession? Silent. The Court says Congress has discretion over definition and scope. Congress is using that discretion to define “dynasty” so narrowly that most of its members
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probably qualify as non-dynastic. The real genius of this ruling—if you want to call it genius—is that it gives the Supreme Court plausible deniability. The Court did not write the law. It just said: Congress, do something. And Congress did something. Something weak. Something that technically checks the constitutional box while functionally preserving the status quo. What is the Court going to do now? Strike down the very law it compelled Congress to pass? That would be the judicial overreach of the century. Accept it? Then Article II, Section 26 becomes a constitutional promise fulfilled by a law that prohibits almost nothing. The Court has maneuvered itself into a corner of its own making. It spent 39 years deferring to legislative discretion. Now it has discovered that legislative discretion, exercised by people who benefit directly from the absence of regulation, produces laws designed to look like regulation while being the opposite. I would say I am shocked, but I sued these people in 2012. I know exactly what Congress is capable of. The only surprise is that the Supreme Court finally noticed. The ruling is being celebrated as a victory for democracy. I am not so sure. What we have is a judicial mandate for legislative action, met by a legislative response designed to satisfy the mandate without changing anything that matters. The Court has forced Congress to act. Congress has acted. The dynasty continues. The Supreme Court can compel Congress to legislate. It cannot compel Congress to mean it. That is the constitutional law lesson for the ages—and it only took 39 years, two rejected petitions, and one glaringly obvious observation: you cannot reform a system from within by the people who benefit from the system remaining unreformed. The Court has opened a door. Congress has walked through it, looked around, and decided to redecorate while leaving the structural foundation untouched. Welcome to the next constitutional battle: is a weak anti-dynasty law still an anti-dynasty law? My bet is the Court will find a way to say yes. Because the alternative—admitting that mandamus can force the act of legislation but not its substance—is an admission that judicial review has limits in the face of legislative self-preservation. And that is a truth the Court, like Congress, would rather not confront.
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who cannot participate because they are abroad or their whereabouts are unknown, and those legally restrained from exercising their duties as senators, he said in a brief read aloud by the impeachment clrek of court.
refers to all 24 senators who remain members of the Senate. “As long as they are members of the Senate, they constitute the denominator in computing the threshold of two-thirds because all means all,” he said. At some point, the senator-judges will also hear arguments from both the prosecution and the defense regarding the conviction threshhold. After all these, the senator-judges would have had had the opportunity to weigh the arguments presented. They have been exposed to different but well argued positions. How will they decide and what would move them to decide either way? Ideally, the senators, many of whom are not lawyers, would be guided by the legal opinion of the experts and by their own reading of the Constitution. After all, nowhere does it say that only lawyers are entitled to interpret the law. Senators carry their legislative experience, their accountability to their constituents, as well as their consciences. But we must not forget that impeachment is also a political exercise. Political loyalties or the instinct for self-preservation could go a long way. “Long” could vary from senator to senator. Two-thirds is not just another fraction. It will speak volumes on whether the letter or spirit of the law would prevail. In the end, we can only hope that the senators would be driven by their good – practical – sense in weighing how many votes are needed to convict a sitting vice president. They owe the nation, and nobody else, this decision.
The anti-dynasty law that prohibits almost nothing
Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno
Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 8-5646225 and 8-5646229 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www.manilastandard.net
Determining the threshold
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WORLD
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
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US seeks ‘AI dialogue’ with China N
EW YORK – US and Chinese economic officials discussed creating a communication channel for AI concerns at meetings Sunday (Monday, Manila time) as they set the stage for a summit of the countries’ top leaders this week.
WATER CHALLENGE. Residents queue up to fill their containers with drinking water from a public water tanker in Ahmedabad, India. AFP
IN BRIEF Putin’s political party set to retain power US arrests 18 suspects in killing of Haiti president MIAMI – Eighteen suspects in the 2021 assassination of Haitian president Jovenel Moise have been transported to Florida to stand trial, US officials said Sunday. Moise, 53, was gunned down on July 7, 2021, at his private residence by a hired group of about 20 military-trained Colombian mercenaries. His security detail did not intervene to protect him. “Today’s multi-location and international arrests underscore the FBI’s continued commitment to bringing all participants in this plot to justice,” FBI special agent Brett Skiles said on X. In the same post, federal prosecutor Jason Reding Quinones said: “18 transported in military plane from Haiti to face American justice in the Southern District of Florida.” “Five years later, we are still bringing defendants before American courts, and we are not finished,” Quinones wrote, adding that 30 suspects have thus far been indicted in the killing. AFP
3 Sokor soldiers injured in DMZ blast – military SEOUL – Three South Korean military officers were injured in an explosion during an operation near the heavily mined border with North Korea, Seoul’s military said Monday. The incident occurred south of the Military Demarcation Line inside the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), one of the world’s most heavily fortified and mined frontiers. Two of the injured officers were evacuated by helicopter, while a third was due to be transported by road before being airlifted, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said. It was not immediately clear whether the explosion was caused by a North Korean mine, a South Korean mine or another explosive device. The three officers “were injured by an explosion of unknown cause while conducting an operation at a location south of the MDL,” the JCS said in a statement. The military did not immediately provide details on the severity of their injuries. AFP
MOSCOW – Vladimir Putin’s ruling United Russia party won a large majority in the country’s parliamentary elections, marked by cyberattacks and a barrage of Ukrainian drone strikes, according to results published by state media early Monday. The election, held to elect members in all seats of the lower house State Duma, is the first since Moscow launched its large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. No party opposed to the war was allowed to run, with Russia’s Supreme Court removing the anti-war Yabloko party off the ballot weeks before the vote. Voting also took place in Ukrainian territories occupied and annexed by Russia.
Turnout could offer a barometer of public opinion towards Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II. According to results reported by Russian news agencies after just over 71 percent of ballots were counted, United Russia took 57.5 percent of the vote. The Communist Party and LDPR nationalists trailed behind on 14 and 8.7 percent respectively. The ruling party is on course to retain its two-thirds majority of the 450 seats in the State Duma, allowing it to amend the constitution, according to projections by the state agency TASS. The first official results and turnout
Indonesia still struggling to curb huge forest fires PONTIANAK, Indonesia – Indonesia is doing “everything” to fight huge forest fires but dozens of planes and thousands of personnel are still struggling to contain them, a senior official said on Monday. Firefighters have been battling blazes for weeks in Borneo and Sumatra that have blanketed parts of the country, as well as neighboring Malaysia and Singapore, in toxic haze. The government has deployed 64 aircraft and 54,000 personnel to the islands since last month to try and put out the fires by water bombing, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said. “From the air to the ground, all forces continue to move. Everything is being done to extinguish the fires, reduce the impact of the smoke, and, most importantly, protect the public from the threat of forest and land fires,” he said. “The vast size of the territory and the challenging conditions of peatlands pose serious difficulties in dealing with forest and land fires in various regions.” Daniel Sinyor, a spokesman for the disaster mitigation agency for West Kalimantan, one of the most-affected areas, said the varied depths of the fires burning inside local peat soils was adding to the difficulty. “Another challenge is the limited water sources available to this ground task force. In general, water sources decrease or even disappear in areas affected by the fires,” he said. Last week, Indigenous and civil society groups in West Kalimantan filed a class action lawsuit against the government, including the president and the governor, for allegedly failing to prevent the fire. AFP
FATALITIES. Rescue officials carry a body bag with the remains of a victim recovered from the Virgo Transport 8 ship accident, upon arrival by helicopter at Syamsudin Noor Airport in Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan, Indonesia on Monday, September 21, 2026. The Virgo Transport 8 was carrying 213 passengers and 30 crew when it lost contact with its shipping company after departing from Indonesia’s second city of Surabaya on Java island, headed for Banjarmasin on Borneo. AFP
Man shot and wounded by ICE agent in Texas AUSTIN – A Venezuelan national was rushed to a hospital in Austin, Texas after he was shot by a US immigration agent, local officials said, voicing outrage and demanding an investigation into what happened. The man was in stable but serious condition with one gunshot wound to the torso suffered during a foot pursuit, the officials said, stressing that information on what occurred was “very preliminary.” “I am very angry and extremely disappointed that a person was shot on the streets of Austin by ICE,” Mayor Kirk Watson said on X, referring to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency executing the Trump administration’s highly controversial crackdown. A lawyer for the wounded man identified him as 28-year-old Wilber Rafael Garces Perez of Venezuela. The lawyer, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, said on X that Garces Perez was shot “by ICE in Austin during a DoorDash delivery this afternoon.” AFP
will be expected on Monday morning. Ukraine fired waves of drones at Moscow and the surrounding region on the final day of voting on Sunday, killing two people and setting an oil refinery ablaze, officials said. Russia vowed it would “intensify” its strikes on Kyiv in response, with the defense ministry accusing Ukraine of attempting to “disrupt the democratic will of Russian citizens.” An exit poll published by a state-run pollster showed United Russia on course to win 49.4 percent of the vote, close to the same amount it achieved in the previous election. AFP
The talks come as both powers confront rising fears that increasingly capable artificial intelligence systems could wipe out humanity, offering a rare incentive for cooperation despite an intensifying race for technological supremacy. “We just had a very successful engagement with the Chinese on trade and AI,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told reporters after long talks with a team led by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng. The talks are a prelude to a planned White House meeting on Thursday of the leaders of the world’s two biggest economies: US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The discussions, which also included the top US trade official Jamieson Greer, lasted around eight hours at JPMorgan Chase’s headquarters in New York. Bessant said the two sides discussed setting up a way to communicate about AI issues called the “US-China AI dialogue.” “The US has proposed that we have a notification mechanism between the two countries,” Bessent said. Such notifications are for potential “incidents,” or a situation “that rises up to a national security level from AI,” he said, adding that both sides have agreed to meet again. Bessent and He also spoke one-on-one during the day, a source familiar with the matter said. Chinese state media described the meetings as “candid, in-depth, and constructive” on Monday. “The two sides engaged in... discussions on key economic and trade issues of mutual interest, such as implementing the consensus from previous consultations and promoting bilateral trade and investment,” Xinhua news agency said in a brief readout. Chinese and US officials also held a dialogue on “issues related to AI,” Xinhua added, without giving any further details. Chinese official Li Chenggang, who was elevated to a top-level international trade representative post shortly before the meetings, was present in the New York talks too. But the Chinese delegation did not address reporters. AFP
New Zealand picks endangered black robin as Bird of the Year
BIRD OF THE YEAR. This handout photo taken by Calen Teague and released by Royal Forest & Bird Society of New Zealand on September 21, 2026 shows the critically endangered black robin on a branch on Chatham Island. A record number of New Zealanders turned out at the polls this September, not for national elections but to vote for their Bird of the Year – the critically endangered black robin. AFP
WELLINGTON – A record number of New Zealanders turned out at the polls this month, not for national elections but to vote for their Bird of the Year – the critically endangered black robin. The diminutive native lives on the remote Chatham Islands, 800 kilometers (500 miles) off the South Island’s east coast. In 1980, only five of the birds remained, including a single breeding female. Now there are about 350. The black robin topped the pecking order ahead of the famed flightless parrot, the kakapo, and the native karearea falcon, which came in second and third. The annual Bird of the Year competition is run by independent conservation organization Forest and Bird, and has been the subject of significant contro-
versy in the past decade. In 2019 there were accusations of Russian interference after hundreds of votes were registered from IP addresses in the country. Forest and Bird deemed most of the votes were legitimate, and said it did not affect the victory of the hoiho, or yellow-eyed penguin. In 2023 the puteketeke won the title after receiving the celebrity backing of Last Week Tonight comedian John Oliver, who urged his viewers to vote for the lake dweller. Forest and Bird’s Rebecca Hatch said voter numbers had soared this year, but not due to foreign interference. “This year has seen record numbers of votes with 105,000 people choosing their favorite,” Hatch said. AFP
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
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PBBM rolls out AI-powered eGovPH portal P
RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is pushing for wider and more inclusive access to artificial intelligence (AI) as the government launched on Monday a new AI-powered feature of the eGovPH Superapp.
FILIPINO ATTIRE WITH A TWIST.
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Maria Christina Aquino interact with city government employees clad in innovative Filipinoinspired attire showcasing the richness and diversity of traditional and contemporary Filipino fashion, during the San Juan City Linggo ng Kasuotang Pilipino as part of the city’s month-long observance of Tourism Month. Manny Palmero
Teodoro launches ASEAN defense ministers convention By Rex Espiritu DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Monday led the opening of an ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) maritime security activity aimed at strengthening cooperation, trust and interoperability among participating regional defense forces.
The Philippines and Japan, cochairs of the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security (EWG-MS), are hosting the Joint Cooperative Activity (JCA) and Future Leaders’ Program (FLP) from Sept. 20 to 26. The activities include harbor and sea phases involving personnel, naval assets, ships and aircraft from
eight ADMM-Plus countries. Observers from other ASEAN member states and ASEAN dialogue partners were also invited. Teodoro said the activities would help participants become familiar with procedures and develop networks and trust among their respective defense establishments and navies.
“We hope that this exercise will be foundational in two things: number one, learning the procedures or getting familiar with the procedures and working together and cooperation; and secondly, develop, at an early stage, networking, trust, and cooperation amongst all the participants and your respective defense establishments and navies,” Teodoro said.
WPS Foundation donates training seacraft to PCG for civilian use THE WPS Foundation on Monday donated a training ship to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) for civilian maritime purposes. “With the completion of the necessary legal, administrative, and technical requirements, the vessel is now under the custody of the PCG for civilian maritime purposes,” the foundation said. The vessel, measuring 61 meters long, can be configured to serve as a multi-role response vessel of the PCG. The donation supports the PCG’s mandates in maritime safety, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, marine environmental protection, and maritime capacity-building. It forms part of the Foundation’s commitment to strengthen the capabilities of the Philippines’ civilian maritime agencies through concrete, practical support. “This donation is about saving lives, protecting our seas, and building the capacity of the men and women of the Philippine Coast Guard. We are proud to have turned over a platform that will serve Filipino fishermen, mariners, and coastal communities,” said Dr. Jeffrey Ordaniel, president and chief executive of the WPS Foundation. PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan thanked the donor, saying the vessel will be deployed in Mindanao, where it will be utilized for humanitarian assistance and disaster response, search and rescue, and marine environmental protection operations. The WPS stressed that the initiative was civilian, humanitarian, and non-confrontational in nature and not directed against any country. The WPS Foundation will continue to coordinate with the PCG and the appropriate Philippine authorities on the vessel’s utilization. Rex Espiritu
In a message delivered by Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos during the ceremonial launch of eGov AI at The Manila Hotel, Marcos said emerging technologies must be made accessible to more Filipinos and harnessed to improve public services. “We live in a time when technology is transforming how we learn, work, and do business. Artificial intelligence, or AI in particular, offers new ways of solving problems and making everyday tasks more efficient,” the President said. “Hence, the government must be ready to make these technologies work for the Filipino people,” he added. Marcos cited a 2024 study showing that only 14.9 percent of firms in the country use AI tools, with adoption concentrated among larger, technology-related companies in urban centers. Structural barriers and connectivity also affect businesses’ ability to adopt emerging technologies, he said. “These realities tell us where our work must continue. We must make innovation more accessible and equip our people with the skills to use it,” Marcos said. He stressed that AI development must also be anchored on accountability, security, and public service. “That is why this administration is championing the ethical and responsible use of AI as a means to improve our services to Filipinos and create opportunities for them,” he said. Developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), eGov AI features “Kuya A,” a built-in AI assistant that provides real-time guidance to help users access government services online. Free to verified eGovPH users, the feature includes document extraction, image identification, translation, form understanding and speech generation, as well as access to tourism information and laws, policies and guidelines. The platform also includes electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) for more efficient identity verification and advanced liveness checks to strengthen safeguards against fraud and unauthorized access.
IN BRIEF BI wages crackdown on corruption at NAIA
SSS AWARDS. Social Security System president and chief cxecutive Robert Joseph Montes De Claro field questions during a press briefing on the 2026 Balikat ng Bayan Awards which recognize individuals and organizations that contribute to the pension funds operations and help advance protection and security for workers, members, and pensioners. Manny Palmero
Search continues for 8 missing ferry passengers By Vince Lopez T HE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) presses its search for eight missing passengers of the MV June Aster which burned off in Coron, Palawan last Sept. 9 even as one of its key response vessels has been called off from the operations. In a statement, PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said BRP Suluan, BRP Cape Engaño, and other PCG watercraft, backed by 247 Coast Guard responders, will remain in the area to continue looking for the missing people while the BRP Melchora Aquino is pulled out and sent to Manila for refueling and resupply. “The demobilization of BRP Melchora Aquino will not
affect our continuing search for the eight missing individuals. We have Coast Guard vessels and responders remaining in Coron to sustain our operations,” Cayabyab said. She said BRP Melchora Aquino was among the first PCG assets to arrive at the incident area, serving as a platform vessel that provided refueling and reprovisioning support to PCG and partner vessels so they could remain on station and focus on their operational tasks. Throughout its deployment, the vessel supported the Coast Guard District Palawan, rescue divers, technical teams, communications personnel, maritime investigators, legal officers, and medical personnel, while also serving as a platform for personnel deployment, logistical support, and interagency coordination.
SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME. Children
play at the beach of Barangay Lanang in Davao City with massive pylons of the Samal Bridge project in the backdrop. The span which links Davao City to Samal Is. is expected to be completed in mid2028. Revoli Cortez
TWO Immigration officers who allegedly received as much as P500,000 from illegal recruiters in exchange for facilitating the departure of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were relieved from their posts. The anomaly surfaced after a suspected illegal recruitment and human trafficking scheme was unearthed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) involving passengers who were allowed to leave the country despite incomplete travel documents. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) said one regular Immigration agent was sacked, while a joborder worker was fired over alleged complicity in the irregular departure of OFWs with questionable travel documents. The NBI arrested another BI officer at the NAIA Terminal 1 departure area on Sept. 12 for alleged acceptance of bribe money from illegal recruiters. Vito Barcelo
DOJ personnel urged to uphold equal justice JUSTICE Secretary Fredderick Vida has called on his constituents to remain courageous in fulfilling their mandate and upholding equal application of the law as the foundation of public trust. Vida made the call in his remarks during the DOJ’s 129th founding anniversary celebration on Monday. Vida said the country is currently at the “crossroads,” but emphasized the efforts of the DOJ, together with the Office of the Ombudsman, in shaping accountability mechanisms. He acknowledged the people’s’ anger over corruption involving flood control projects, noting that the DOJ would continue to fulfill its mandate to serve justice for all. Pot Chavez
Czech Embassy invites bids on PH dev’t plans THE Czech Embassy in Manila has opened its annual call for proposals on small-scale development projects in the Philippines focused on disaster risk reduction, preparedness, and resilience building. with applications due by October 2, 2026. In a statement, the embassy clarified that the call is open until Oct. 2, 2026 to all countries accredited to the Embassy in Manila, including the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Palau, and Naoero. “The Small Scale-Project (SSP) is one of the instruments of the Development Cooperation of the Czech Republic. SSPs are identified by the respective Embassies of the Czech Republic (through applications submitted by potential implementers) and approved by the HQ of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA),” the embassy said on its website posted Sept. 18. “SSP aims to contribute to the local community through small-scale development activities in accordance with the country’s national development priorities,” it added. Katrina Manubay
SPORTS
A8
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
Yulo overcomes rough day, keeps Asian Games gold bid alive biggest scare of the day. Yulo had a bad landing on his first attempt, which left him with an average of 13.649 and NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT threatened his qualification. He did it Home)—Two-time Olympic champion on his second attempt and finally made Carlos Yulo had his ups and downs, but it through to the final as the seventh through all the turbulence, the Filipino qualifier. gymnastics star kept his Asian Games “Hindi ‘yun ‘yung tamang pag-grab gold-medal dream alive. and nu’ng nalaglag ako, I was really Yulo opened his campaign Monday disappointed but at the same time thankful at the Nagoya General Gymnasium and grateful na safe ako kanina kasi ‘yung Rainbow Hall, leading the ganu’ng pagkakamali, puwedeng matapos floor exercise qualification na ‘yung career ko,” he said. with a superb 14.600. But “May finals pa, may chance pa, may hours later, he was fighting chance tayo magka-medal,” said Yulo. just to stay in contention for He explained that his high-bar routine his vault specialty after a troublesome was also part of an effort to challenge landing in his first attempt. himself after bringing back the skill he “Sobrang challenging today. Hindi had abandoned several years ago. ito ‘yung in-expect ko na preparation “Sa high bar din nahulog ako. After ko. Hindi siya lumabas talaga today. how many years po kasi, tinigil ko ‘yung ‘Yung sa vault, hindi ko, hindi ko siya skill na ‘yun. And then binalik ko siya matanggap kanina,” said Yulo. ulit just to challenge po ‘yung sarili The 26-year-old Filipino also opened ko and mas makapag-look ng ibang up about the mistakes that nearly derailed perspective,” Yulo explained. his qualification, including his failed Despite a performance that fell short of vault landing and a fall on the high bar his expectations, Yulo chose to focus on after failing to secure his grip. the positives, particularly his safety and There was also hard news off the the opportunity to continue competing competition floor, with Philippine for the Philippines. Gymnastics Association president Cynthia “It’s just really trial and error pa din. Carrion leaving Nagoya after her husband And at the end of the day, I still did po Jerry Rollins died earlier in the day. ‘yung best ng makakaya ko,” he said. Still, Yulo pushed through to qualify His younger brother Karl Eldrew Yulo for four finals -- floor exercise, vault, also made his presence felt, advancing parallel bars and the team event -- giving to the floor exercise final in fourth place him four more chances to grab the Asian with 13.966 points. Games gold medal that has slipped from Eldrew acknowledged the mistakes his grasp. he made across several apparatuses but said he tried to reset mentally after every rotation. “[Ang] nafe-feel ko po is grateful dahil lahat kami is safe and of course super proud din ako sa nangyari kanina. And dahil well may mga bagay din ako na hindi nagawa tulad ng pommel, sa rings, and of course sa p-bar. But I keep telling myself na change mood to change mood every time na nagcha-change kami ng apparatus to feel the other energy,” he said. Eldrew placed ninth in the horizontal bar qualification with 13.433 points, but still advanced to the final because of Carlos Yulo delivers a superb performance in the the rule limiting each National floor exercise. POC Media Olympic Committee to two qualifiers per apparatus. Yulo’s first bid ended in disappointment The younger Yulo also finished eighth after he placed 10th in the individual alloverall in the individual all-around with around standings. 77.264 points. Yulo was particularly sharp on floor, Southeast Asian Games gold medalist where he scored 14.600, the best in Miguel Besana added another Philippine qualifying, to cement his status as the finals berth after qualifying fourth in the reigning Olympic champion in the event. vault with 13.933 points. He also qualified for the parallel bars The Philippines placed sixth in the finals by placing sixth with 14.266. team qualification with 232.093 points. But the vault turned out to be the
By Riera U. Mallari
Jean Claude Saclag of the Philippines defends against a takedown by Japan’s Daisuke Murayama. POC Media
Saclag overpowers foe, earns shot at Asiad gold By Riera U. Mallari
N
AGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—Jean Claude Saclag moved a victory away from delivering the Philippines’ first Asian Games gold medal in mixed martial arts after overpowering Japan’s Daisuke Murayama in the men’s traditional -65kg semifinals Monday at the Nagoya City Inae Sports Center.
Fighting aggressively from the opening bell, Saclag controlled the action and neutralized the home bet’s vaunted ground game to earn a unanimous decision and secure his place in Tuesday’s championship match. “Ramdam ko na mas malakas ako. Na-overpower ko siya,” said Saclag, who will battle Tajikistan’s Otabek Rajabov for the gold medal on Sept. 22. The Filipino said he plans to employ the same aggressive but
calculated approach in the final as he attempts to make history for Team Philippines. “Sanay naman tayo lumaban sa finals kaya mas lalo akong na-inspire. Iba pa rin ’to. Asian Games ’to, eh,” Saclag said in a video interview with One Sports after the match. Saclag admitted that Murayama’s proficiency on the ground forced him to fight cautiously and keep the action on their feet. He maintained
his distance, landed telling strikes and stayed alert against the Japanese fighter’s takedown attempts. “Kailangan keep natin ’yung distance, saktan natin siya, tapos depensahan natin ’yung takedowns niya,” he said. Saclag’s victory added another guaranteed medal to the Philippine tally after compatriot Carlos Alvarez settled for bronze in the men’s traditional -77kg division earlier in the day. The 27-year-old Alvarez bowed to Kazakhstan’s taller Yerkingali Burkutalin via a close 0-3 decision following a hard-fought semifinal encounter. Alvarez had advanced to the medal round after dominating Indonesia’s Ananda Wahyu Setyo Prabowo, 3-0, in the quarterfinals. He displayed tremendous grit against Burkutalin but ultimately fell short of reaching the championship bout.
Verbruggen sprints past Federiso to capture Sunrise Sprint crown SAMAL—Yuen Verbruggen saved his biggest burst of speed for last, surging past Jerald Federiso in a frenetic closing run to capture the overall Sunrise Sprint crown in the Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon in Davao del Norte here Sunday. Verbruggen stayed within striking distance of Federiso through the 750-meter open-water swim and 20-km bike leg before unleashing a powerful finishing kick over the 5-km run to clock 1:11:31. He timed 14:06 in the swim, 34:24 on the bike and 20:15 in the run to complete the sprint-distance course. Federiso had the early advantage, posting faster splits of 13:46 and 33:48 in the first two legs. But Verbruggen proved too quick in the run, where his 20:15 was more than a minute better than Federiso’s 21:18, allowing him to secure the overall victory by 40 seconds. Federiso settled for second in 1:12:11, while John Carl Lim completed the podium in 1:12:49. Verbruggen, Federiso and Lim also swept the top three spots in the 18-24 age category in the Sunrise Sprint, a fast-paced side event designed for newcomers, returning competitors and seasoned triathletes looking to sharpen
ICTSI trio tackles tough Kenda Tire golf field in Taiwan Yuen Verbruggen wins the frantic sprint race to the finish.
their speed and race strategy. In the women’s division, Alessandra Aquino dominated the field to claim the overall and 18-24 titles in 1:26:01. She posted splits of 14:42 in the swim, 42:18 on the bike and 25:17 in the run, finishing well ahead of Andrea Cui (1:29:38) and Keena Clarke (1:46:58). James Van Ramoga and Natalie Doromal-Lim, meanwhile, captured
the overall titles in the second Damosa Land 5150, while Edgie Arances and Anisha Caluya topped the Filipino Elite categories in the demanding Olympicdistance event featuring a 1.5-km swim, 40-km bike and 10-km run of the event organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., with the support of Damosa Land president Cary Lagdameo and Samal Mayor Lemuel Reyes.
SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD Isabella Tabanas gets her first taste of professional golf when she joins fellow ICTSI-backed amateurs Lisa and Mona Sarines in the Kenda Tire Cup, which gets under way Wednesday (Sept. 23) at the Taichung International Country Club in Taichung, Taiwan. The NT$4-million championship, the 16th leg of the LPGA of Taiwan Tour, is co-sanctioned by the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour and brings together the leading players from the LPGT and a strong international field. For Tabanas, however, the 54hole event represents more than just another tournament – it marks her
Cignal goes extra mile to air Eala’s Asiad bid By Riera Mallari NAGOYA (Powered by PLDT Home)—There may not be a world feed for tennis at the 20th Asian Games, but Filipino fans won’t be left in the dark when Philippine superstar Alexandra Eala takes the court. As the official Philippine broadcaster of the AichiNagoya Games, Cignal TV is putting in an extra P1 million for its own coverage at the Higashiyama Park Tennis Center, ensuring that Eala’s campaign in the Asian Games will be seen live back home. “We won’t let the Filipinos down in not being able to watch Eala’s games here,” said Cignal first vice president and head of sports content Sienna Olaso. “We’re going to put our own cameras and digital equipment in.” ithout its Chinese and Japanese stars, tennis was relegated to highlights and ENG crews, making Cignal, which is carrying the Aichi-Nagoya Games on ONE Sports, ONE Sports+ and Pilipinas Live, has built
much of its promotion around Filipino stars such as Eala, Olympic champion Carlos Yulo and pole vaulter EJ Obiena. And with Eala in the fold, the tennis competition gets a bonus Philippine narrative. Rather than compete at the China Open, a WTA 1000 event with ranking points and prize money on offer, the world No. 18 Eala opted to represent her country in Nagoya. The Philippine tennis body has sought an exemption from the mandatory Beijing event for her. The Asian Games tennis tournament begins Sept. 27 at the newly renovated Higashiyama Park Tennis Center and runs through Oct. 3. Eala is now the highest-ranked woman in the singles draw at the Asian Games after the withdrawal of several top players, including China’s Zheng Qinwen and Indonesia’s Janice Tjen. The stakes are more than just Eala’s individual campaign for the Philippines as she will also shoot for the country’s first Asian Games tennis gold since 1962, when Johnny Jose defeated Japan’s Michio Miyagi in Jakarta, Indonesia for the men’s singles title.
Isabella Tabanas during the practice round.
maiden appearance on the TLPGA, giving the promising Cagayan de Oro junior an early opportunity to test her game against seasoned professionals and top amateurs from across Asia. Tabanas, who has committed to play collegiate golf for Texas A&M University-Kingsville, is the latest addition to ICTSI’s growing stable of young players being given assistance and international exposure as part of a long-term program aimed at developing golfers capable of competing on the world stage. She will be joined by the Sarines twins, Lisa and Mona, who are also regarded as among the promising young talents in Philippine golf. The sisters have made early strides as junior golfers, gaining valuable experience in local and international competitions and steadily building the credentials that have marked them as potential future players on the LPGT. The three youngsters will have plenty to learn from the seasoned Filipina pros in the field, led by ICTSI-backed Yvon Bisera and Princess Superal, and Harmie Constantino, while also getting a firsthand look at the level required to compete successfully on the professional circuit. Kiara Montebon, 20, is also on the ICTSI roster. An incoming Biology junior, she competes for Chicago State University in US NCAA Division I. Tabanas hails from Cagayan de Oro and regularly plays at Del Monte Golf Club and Pueblo de Oro. She has competed in several tournaments in the United States since 2023 and continued her rise with a successful campaign in the FCG Collegiate Series Spring Classic at Pala Mesa Resort in Fallbrook, California last April.
BUSINESS
B1
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
Mitsubishi investing P44.5b in Ayala P44.5 billion Mitsubishi-Ayala deal
15%
Mitsubishi’s economic stake in Ayala
20%
By Jenniffer B. Austria
J
APAN’S Mitsubishi Corp. will raise its economic stake in conglomerate Ayala Corp. to 15 percent from 4.7 percent in a deal worth about P44.5 billion, Ayala said in a stock exchange disclosure Monday.
Mitsubishi’s voting stake will also rise to 20 percent. Under a definitive agreement, Mitsubishi will subscribe to and acquire Ayala common shares at P650 each through primary and secondary shares, including a voluntary tender offer. The deal deepens the 2 companies’ 52-year partnership. Ayala expects to receive about P20 billion, which it will use to reduce debt, continue its share purchase program covering Ayala and its listed subsidiaries and support future growth initiatives. Ayala plans to conduct a voluntary tender offer on Mitsubishi’s be-
half for up to about 30 million common shares, subject to regulatory requirements. Public shareholders will receive the same P650 per share price. “This transaction represents much more than a capital investment. As we enter this new chapter with Mitsubishi, we look forward to deepening our collaboration and creating lasting value for our stakeholders while contributing meaningfully to the country’s continued progress,” said Ayala Corp. chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala. The two companies plan to collab-
orate more on infrastructure, energy transition, real estate, digital technologies, mobility, logistics and other emerging industries. Ayala said Mitsubishi’s global network, industry expertise and market relationships could help accelerate business growth, transfer technology and knowledge and create new opportunities across its portfolio. It said the investment also reflects Mitsubishi’s confidence in Ayala’s strategy, the strength of its diversified portfolio and the growth potential of the Philippine economy. “Mitsubishi’s increased investment in Ayala Corp. is designed to grow value for Ayala’s shareholders by combining global reach and technology of one of Japan’s leading trading houses with the assets of one of the Philippines’ most diversified conglomerates,” said Ayala Corp. president and chief executive Cezar Consing.
Mitsubishi’s voting stake in Ayala ASEAN TASK FORCE.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) co-leads the 3rd ASEAN+3 Task Force meeting with the Department of Finance, Japan’s Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Japan on Sept. 10 to 11, 2026 in Puerto Princesa City. The event brought technical representatives from ASEAN +3 member authorities to discuss ways to strengthen regional financial cooperation and resilience. The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) provided support to the discussions.
DOE plans to launch nuclear power project bidding in June 2027 By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Department of Energy plans to launch a competitive tender for nuclear power generation capacity in June 2027 and aims to issue notices and certificates of award by December 2027. The department issued draft guidelines that set a schedule for bidding, project awards and the long-term delivery of nuclear energy to the national grid.
Under the proposed department circular, the agency will issue official terms of reference and generic site selection parameters within 6 months of the circular taking effect. It will evaluate bids from June to November 2027. The guidelines set out a roadmap to commercial operations, built around the long lead times that nuclear facility development and safety licensing require. Facilities will have a 4-year construction window starting from
regulatory authorization by the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority or a notice to proceed. Nuclear plants will begin delivering power in 2038, with a second tranche in 2040 and full delivery through 2047. The phased entry aligns with the Philippine Energy Plan’s clean energy scenario, which envisions integrating nuclear power into the country’s baseload generation mix. The Nuclear Tender Committee, chaired by an energy undersecretary
or assistant secretary and supported by a technical working group, will supervise the tender. Bidders will pay no registration or participation fees but must submit bid security and performance guarantees. A nuclear tender threshold price, set in coordination with the Energy Regulatory Commission, will govern pricing to safeguard consumer rates while accommodating the capital-intensive nature of nuclear infrastructure.
IN BRIEF PH exports fresh Carabao mangoes to Canada THE Philippines made its first commercial export of fresh Carabao mangoes to Canada on Sept. 18, 2026, shipping a metric ton to Vancouver in a milestone seen as opening a new market for one of the country’s signature agricultural products. Mensch FilAm Corp. and the Department of Trade and Industry’s Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB) sent the 250 cartons from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Complex in Parañaque City under the bureau’s Outbound Business Matching Mission program. Vancouver-based Fresh Makers Ltd., which supplies supermarkets and institutional buyers, will import the mangoes. Air Canada handled the air transport, and Airspeed Cargo provided logistics support. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the shipment is part of the government’s broader strategy to open new markets for Philippine farm products and increase agricultural export earnings. “Opening new markets means opening new opportunities for our farmers. When we can sell more Philippine agricultural products abroad, we create opportunities to increase farm incomes, encourage more investment in agriculture, and bring greater economic activity to the countryside,” he said. Othel V. Campos
SSS disburses P170b in loans so far this year THE Social Security System (SSS) has disbursed about P170 billion in loans this year across its programs, president and chief executive Robert Joseph de Claro said Monday. The state-run pension fund has released nearly P20 billion to 780,000 members under its emergency loan program. It aims to reach 2.4 million eligible members. For microloans, the SSS has released P1.81 billion to 146,000 members from the P40 billion earmarked for the program. De Claro said disbursing at least P10 billion
by year-end would mark the program a success. “Considering the behavior of the loan takeouts for the first month, I think if we can reach P10 billion by the end of 2026, we would consider the program very successful,” de Claro said. He said the SSS loan portfolio remains well within the 25 percent ceiling that the SSS Charter sets for short and mediumterm member loans. Thony Rose Lesaca
Al-Amanah Bank vows to fund halal MSMEs STATE-RUN Al-Amanah Islamic Investment Bank will provide capital to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the halal industry as the Philippines seeks to tap a trillion-dollar global market, the bank said on Saturday. Al-Amanah chairperson and chief executive Amenah Pangandaman, a former budget secretary, said the bank is determining how much financing support it can allocate to MSMEs. “Financing for our MSMEs must support the entire value chain. It is not enough that we provide their capital for production as it is still a long journey as we move toward certification, logistics, scaling up and eventually exporting,” she said. The bank is teaming up with the Department of Trade and Industry to finance halal expansion, including accreditation fees and halal slaughterhouse facilities, and with the Cooperative Development Authority to expand cooperatives in the halal industry. Al-Amanah has also partnered with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos to provide Islamic financing for MSMEs and halal certifying bodies. “There is no denying that halal certification, here and elsewhere, can be difficult, extensive and costly for MSMEs but the returns for both consumers and businesses are also abundant. As we work toward accessible and understandable certification, we must also put in mind that it should not become an unnecessary hurdle for our MSMEs,” Pangandaman said.
UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY. Forty-five professional and amateur underwater photographers, divers and marine enthusiasts from 13 countries participate in the inaugural Puerto Galera Underwater Shootout 2026, hosted by the Department of Tourism (DOT) through its Regional Office IV-B (MIMAROPA) in partnership with the local government unit (LGU) of Puerto Galera.
DICT launches AI assistant to enhance eGovPH super app By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has launched eGovAI, adding artificial intelligence to the eGovPH Super App as the government accelerates digitalization, cuts red tape and uses technology to improve public services. A key feature, “Kuya AI,” is a government AI assistant that gives citizens and government agencies realtime support. Integrated into the app, eGovAI helps users find government information, navigate services and complete digital transactions. It also includes AI tools for secure identity verification, automated document processing, translation and intelligent assistance.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the department wants to use AI as a practical tool for improving service delivery, not just as a technological upgrade. “The eGovAI marked another important step in our continuing effort to make government work better for every Filipino. We are bringing AI into the eGovernment ecosystem not simply as a technological innovation, but as a tool to make public services more responsive, accessible, and efficient,” Aguda said. For agencies, the system is expected to streamline routine processes and make service delivery more efficient. For citizens, it aims to simplify finding information and accessing government transactions.
extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
BCDA secures P50b worth of investments By Othel V. Campos APPROVED investments secured by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) jumped 535 percent to P49.96 billion in the first half of 2026 from P7.87 billion a year ago, led by a surge in aviation and logistics projects in Clark. BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said the higher commitments showed growing interest among global companies in using the Philippines as a base for expansion in the Asia-Pacific region. “Global companies are making larger and longer-term commitments to the Philippines because they see the potential to serve both the domestic market and the wider Asia-Pacific region from here,” Bingcang said. The aviation sector accounted for P33.91 billion, or nearly 68 percent of the total commitments approved during the period. The investments should generate about 4,210 jobs. Major international aviation and logistics companies drove the increase, including Lufthansa Technik Philippines, FedEx and UPS International. Lufthansa Technik is developing a new widebody aircraft maintenance facility in Clark, while FedEx and UPS are expanding their operations there. The projects add to Clark’s growing aviation and logistics ecosystem, which includes aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), air cargo and other logistics activities. “These investments demonstrate that the Philippines, specifically the entire Clark metropolis, is increasingly being viewed as a platform for companies looking to serve not just the Philippines but the broader AsiaPacific market,” Bingcang said.
SEC requires gov’t contractors to hire external auditors THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has required government contractors to engage external auditors and raised the qualification standards for auditing firms that handle them, under new rules aimed at improving the quality and integrity of financial reporting. “High-quality audits serve as a foundation of transparency in capital markets, fostering public trust in the financial system,” SEC chairman Francisco Lim said. “By tightening our accreditation standards and extending oversight to auditors of major government contractors, we are reinforcing accountability, ensuring that public funds and investors’ hard-earned money are protected by rigorous and independent financial reporting,” he said. The SEC issued Memorandum Circular No. 26, Series of 2026 (MC 26), which amends the accreditation guidelines for auditing firms and external auditors under Revised Rule 68 of the Securities Regulation Code. Under MC 26, corporate general contractors with a single government contract worth more than P750 million, or cumulative government contracts exceeding P1 billion, must engage a Group A independent auditor. Contractors with a single government contract worth P400 million to P750 million, or cumulative government contracts of P500 million to P1 billion, must engage a Group B independent auditor. The accredited auditor must remain engaged until the projects are fully completed or delivered. Contractors must also submit a notarized schedule of their government projects, including the project description, cost and status. An auditor’s report must cover the schedule. The SEC also raised the track record requirements for auditors seeking accreditation. Group A applicants must now have at least 5 corporate clients with total assets of at least P100 million each, up from P50 million under the previous rules. Jenniffer B. Austria
BUSINESS
B2
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
extrastory2000@gmail.com
PH stocks, peso slip as US-Iran tensions keep investors cautious By Jenniffer B. Austria PHILIPPINE stocks closed lower Monday as heightened geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran kept investors cautious, with the benchmark PSE index falling 12.12 points, or 0.21 percent, to 5,843.79 amid continued selling pressure. “Market participants remained on the defensive as the ongoing exchange of threats between the US and Iran heightened geopolitical uncertainty and investor caution,” said Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan. Concerns over a possible rebound in crude oil prices also weighed on sentiment because of the potential impact on inflation and economic growth, he added.
SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY.
PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications Inc. (Smart), joins regional business and sustainability leaders at the recent Forward Faster Now APAC 2026, the flagship event of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), in collaboration with Global Compact Country Networks across the Asia-Pacific, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to reinforce the continuous adoption of sustainability as a business strategy and a driver of value creation and resilience.
The broader all-shares index fell 11.09 points, or 0.34 percent, to 3,266.71. Most sectoral indices ended in negative territory. Industrial stocks fell 1.50 percent, mining and oil declined 1.42 percent, services slipped 0.86 percent, property lost 0.56 percent and financials eased 0.06 percent. Holding firms were the lone gainers, rising 1.76 percent. Market breadth was negative, with 115 decliners against 78 advancers, while 62 stocks were unchanged. Investors stayed on the sidelines, keeping trading subdued, with value turnover at P5.61 billion. Ayala Corp. shares advanced 5.13 percent to P533, while DigiPlus Interactive Corp. shares plunged 6.4 percent to P8.18.
ACEN relinquishes two solar energy contracts By Alena Mae S. Flores
A
CEN Corp. said Monday it voluntarily relinquished two solar energy operating contracts (SEOCs) in Pagbilao, Quezon and Botolan, Zambales.
The company gave up Abagat Energy Corp.’s SEOC No. 202408-938 in Pagbilao on Sept 11, citing significant land acquisition challenges at the project site. It relinquished SolarAce2 Energy Corp.’s SEOC No. 2021-05582 in Botolan on Sept 17 because of site access constraints. “The cancellation of these service/operating contracts has no
material effect on ACEN’s operations, as these projects are still in the early stages of development, have not reached a final investment decision, and neither subsidiary has commenced any commercial operations,” ACEN said. The Ayala-backed company is one of the country’s most aggressive energy players, with about 7 gigawatts (GW) of attributable re-
newable energy capacity in operation, under construction or covered by signed agreements. It operates in the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, India, Laos and the United States, among other markets. ACEN’s consolidated net income rose 411 percent to P3.9 billion in the first half of 2026 from a year earlier. Generation growth across its markets, favorable market conditions in the Philippines and higher contracted energy sales through retail electricity supply and bilateral agreements drove the increase. Revenues climbed to P23.13 billion from P15.72 billion in the same period last year.
S&P Global assigns ‘B+’ rating to DigiPlus S&P Global Ratings has assigned a “B+” long-term issuer credit rating with a stable outlook to DigiPlus Interactive Corp., saying it expects the company to gradually recover from the impact of e-wallet delinking and pursue investment opportunities. S&P Global said DigiPlus likely will remain the largest online gambling operator in the Philippines over the next 2 years, supported by its continued product offerings, user engagement and ability to adjust to policy changes. The ratings agency expects DigiPlus to hold a 40 percent to 50 percent share of the Philippine online gaming market over the period, well ahead of the second-largest player with a 15 percent to 20 percent share. “The largest risks the company faces are a nascent and evolving regulatory landscape and new projects that could lead to cash flow volatility,” S&P Global said. Several bills pending in the Senate could tighten player protection rules or potentially ban online gambling, S&P Global said, which could slow growth of the industry. The company’s market share fell to 41 percent in 2025 from 47 percent in 2024, reflecting the impact of delinking and increased competition from new entrants. DigiPlus’ monthly active users recovered modestly in the first half of 2026, but S&P Global does not expect them to return to pre-delinking levels over the next 2 years. DigiPlus also is expanding into land-based casinos and overseas online gaming markets, including Brazil and South Africa. S&P Global said these initiatives could contribute to the company’s overall business. “We believe a recovering online gambling business will continue to support solid cash flow, while the company’s investments in brickand-mortar casinos and overseas will moderately increase debt,” S&P Global said. Jenniffer B. Austria
CARBONPH PARTNERSHIP. Aboitiz Foundation and GCash GForest launch their CarbonPH partnership in Balamban, Cebu, kicking off a five-year initiative to grow one million trees across 1,200 hectares and advance long-term forest and ecosystem restoration.
PH gets first 2-Key MICHELIN hotels as nine properties make 2026 list By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines now has nine hotels in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection, including two properties that became the country’s first to receive 2 MICHELIN Keys. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island in Palawan and Raffles Makati earned 2 Keys, which the Guide describes as an “exceptional stay.” The Guide cited Lagen Island for its setting in a forested cove framed by limestone cliffs, its use of Filipino materials and craftsmanship and its environmental practices. It moved Raffles Makati up from 1 Key, citing its all-suite accommodations, private butler service and intimate residential atmosphere. Another four hotels earned their first MICHELIN Key: NUSTAR Hotel Cebu in Cebu City, El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island in Palawan, Hotel Okura Manila at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City and Manami Resort in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental. Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao,
Fairmont Makati and Amanpulo in Palawan retained their 1-Key distinctions from the previous selection. The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the latest selection. Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the recognition reflects developments in the Philippine hospitality sector. “Every recognition earned by our tourism stakeholders contributes to a stronger Philippine tourism brand. As we continue to welcome more travelers, we will likewise continue working with our partners in the industry to further elevate the quality of Philippine hospitality,” she said. The MICHELIN Guide evaluates hotels on 5 criteria: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, personality and character, value for the price and contribution to the neighborhood or setting. The MICHELIN Key is the hotel counterpart of the MICHELIN Star for restaurants. One Key denotes a “very special stay,” while 2 Keys indicate an “exceptional stay.”
Interpreting a Constitution: Rigidity leads to absurdity IN THE course of the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice-President Sara Duterte, one of the senatorjudges asked one of the amici curiae if the present Constitution of the Philippines was perfect. The amicus, a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, said in reply that like everything in this world, the 1987 Constitution was not perfect. The friendly retired magistrate was right. There is no Constitution that is without imperfections and the 1987 Constitution is no exception. One of the imperfections of the Constitution that the Filipino people ratified in 1987 is the foremost politically colored legal issues awaiting resolution in this country today. That imperfection is Section 6 (3) of the Constitution’s Article XI, which provides for the number of impeachment court votes needed to convict an impeached official. The provision states that a judgment of conviction must have the concurrence of two-thirds of “all members” of the Senate. At first glance the provision looks and sounds perfect: the votes of two-thirds of the number of members of the Senate, which is 24, are needed to convict an impeached official. What could be more perfect than that? The imperfection arises from the fact that the members of the 1986 Constitutional Commission failed to indicate the composition of the “all members” of the Senate. The Commission’s members obviously thought that providing in Article XI, Section 6(3) for a complete 24-member Senate would dispose of the issue of a conviction-vote threshold and that no problem would arise in the future with regard to that issue. What were the commission’s 50 members possibly thinking when they provided for “all members” of the Senate voting, by a two-thirds vote, to convict the official being tried? Did they think, at the time they laid down the “all members” rule, that on judgment day there would be 24 warm bodies ready to vote for conviction or acquittal? Did they not think that in a world full of uncertainties and valid personal circumstances it was possible that not “all members” of the Senate would be present to meet the twothirds-of-24 conviction threshold? A Senator might be hiding from the law. Another might for one reason or another, e.g., a yearning for travel, choose not to participate in the impeachment proceedings. Yet another Senator might justifiably be kept in detention by the authorities. Did the members of the Constitutional Commission consider these and similar notfarfetched scenarios? Apparently not, judging from the positions being taken on the matter
by strict-construction personages. The Constitution says “all members” and that, they conclude, means 24 Senators. Section 6(3) of Article XI is not the only imperfection of the 1987 Constitution. There are others. There, for instance, is the failure of the members of the Constitutional Commission to provide for “voting separately” by the Senate and the 306-member House of Representatives in amendments of the Constitution by a Constituents Assembly. And there, also, is their declaration of abhorrence of dynasties and then leaving it to Congress to define a dynasty.
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As the current debate over the ‘all members’ provision is showing, rigidity leads to absurdity.
But one should not be too hard on the 1986 Constitutional Commission . The Constitutional Convention of 1934-1935 took more than one year to produce the 1935 Constitution. The body that drafted the 1973 Constitution had been labouring for two years at the time that President Ferdinand E. Marcos established martial law and thereby terminated the 1970-1972 Constitutional Convention. By contrast, the members of the 1986 Constitutional Commission had the tightest of schedules. President Corazon Aquino gave the 50 commissioners six months (July– December 1986) to produce a new Constitution. Given all the attendant circumstances, a six-month timetable to produce a Constitution was a formula for imperfection. Like other Constitutions the world over, the 1987 Constitution is not a perfect Constitution. It contains “all members” and other imperfections. The members of the 1986 Constitutional Commission did their best under very challenging circumstances. They wanted the document they produced to strengthen the rule of law in this country and promote the welfare of all Filipinos. Most certainly, they did not want it to be interpreted in a rigid and absurd manner. As the current debate over the “all members” provision is showing, rigidity leads to absurdity. (llagasjessa@yahoo.com)
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US eyes P9-b Clark airport funding CebuPac taps AI to improve operations T By Othel V. Campos
HE U.S. Development Finance Corp. (DFC) is considering financing a P9-billion expansion of Clark International Airport as the Philippines moves to boost capacity in the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said. Bingcang said the DFC, the US government’s development finance institution, expressed interest in supporting the project during talks on investment opportunities under the LEC. “This will allow more flights and
bigger aircraft,” he said on the sidelines of a forum on Pax Silica organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines. BCDA plans to start building a second runway at Clark by March 2027 at an estimated cost of P7 billion.
Construction of a P2-billion airport apron is expected to start this year. The new runway will be about 2 kilometers long and roughly 2 kilometers from the existing 3.2-kilometer runway. BCDA targets full operation by late 2029, adding capacity while allowing uninterrupted airport operations. Bingcang said the expanded facility could handle as many as 20 flights a day, compared with the current 3 to 4 morning flights, strengthening Clark’s role as an Asian logistics hub. The expansion comes as major international aviation and logistics companies, including FedEx, UPS and Lufthansa Technik, increase their operations at Clark.
FedEx is expanding its Clark facility to 80,000 square meters from 33,000 square meters. Lufthansa Technik Philippines (LTP) is investing $400 million to expand its aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul operations at Clark. The MacroAsia Corp.-Lufthansa Technik joint venture is developing a 15-hectare facility, with operations expected to start in about 3 years. The facility will be able to service up to 20 aircraft, including the Airbus A380. The Clark expansion is part of the LEC, an investment corridor connecting Clark, Subic, Manila and Batangas that the Philippines, the United States, Japan and other partner economies are promoting.
RESPONSIBLE COMPOUNDING.
Ascend Rx, a physicianfocused specialty compounding pharmacy under AIX Ventures Corp., enters the Philippines. Under Ascend Rx, pharmacists work directly with licensed physicians in preparing prescribed compounded medicines. The company supports physicians and healthcare institutions through professionally guided, quality-led and compliancefirst pharmaceutical services.
DA warns bidders against fixers promising rural project contracts THE Department of Agriculture (DA) warned contractors and prospective bidders against individuals claiming they can secure Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) contracts through connections inside the agency. “There is no such thing as a sure contract for PRDP projects. Everything must go through procurement,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, adding that PRDP contracts can only be awarded through
the prescribed procurement process. The DA said it received reports of individuals invoking their supposed ties to DA officials or employees to create the impression that they can influence the procurement process or guarantee project awards. It urged bidders approached with such offers to verify the claims directly with the appropriate government office before making any payment or commitment. The department cited Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Cor-
ATRAM PHILIPPINE EQUITY OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC.
rupt Practices Act, which provides for liability in certain transactions involving private individuals who improperly use relationships or influence with public officials. The DA said individuals who falsely invoke the name or influence of government officials to obtain money, an undue benefit or preferential treatment may face administrative, civil or criminal liability. The DA also rejected claims that PRDP projects can be committed to
particular contractors before the formal bidding process, saying personal connections with DA officials or employees provide no advantage in procurement. Such schemes could undermine confidence in government procurement by creating the impression that public projects can be secured through personal connections rather than competitive bidding and compliance with applicable rules, the DA said. Othel V. Campos
By Darwin G. Amojelar
CEBU Pacific has teamed up with Thinking Machines Data Science and OpenAI to improve operational efficiency and create measurable value across the business, the Philippine airline said. Since the airline rolled out ChatGPT Enterprise, several departments have reported measurable improvements. Contract review time in the legal department fell by about half, from an average of 2.5 hours to about 1.2 hours. Project intake and triage turnaround dropped from 5 days to about 1 day, with an estimated 80 percent reduction in manual review effort. Engineering reference searches that once took 10 to 15 minutes now take less than 10 seconds. In a survey after the rollout, 86 percent of respondents said AI supported more than one-third of their daily work, a sign of broad employee adoption. “At Cebu Pacific, we see AI as a practical way to make every customer’s journey simpler and our operations more reliable,” said Cebu Pacific chief digital and technology officer Fabricio Ibáñez. “It helps our people solve problems faster, make better decisions, and focus on higher-value work. Working with OpenAI technology and Thinking Machines, we are turning experimentation into real workflows that create value for our people and customers,” he said. Ibáñez said the collaboration also helped accelerate adoption across the organization. “What impressed me was how quickly Thinking Machines Data Science turned broad interest in AI into real momentum across the business. They were able to activate the business and create excitement across the organization,” he said. The initiative aims not only to reduce manual work but also to improve how employees and teams operate. “For a company that puts its customers at the center of its operations, AI helps Cebu Pacific work smarter by taking friction out of everyday processes, reducing manual work, speeding up processes, and enabling our teams to make better decisions,” Ibáñez said. “Our partnership with Thinking Machines Data helps make our operations more efficient, so our people can focus on delivering a better experience for our passengers,” he said.
ATRAM ALPHA OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC.
ATRAM PHILIPPINE BALANCED FUND, INC.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING
NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING
NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders' Meeting (ASM) of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually or via remote communication on 16 October 2026 at 3:00PM via Zoom webinar. Stockholders can register at https://bit.ly/ATRAMPesoMFASM2026. Webinar password will be sent via email after registration.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders' Meeting (ASM) of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually or via remote communication on 16 October 2026 at 2:00PM via Zoom webinar. Stockholders can register at https://bit.ly/ATRAMPesoMFASM2026. Webinar password will be sent via email after registration.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Stockholders' Meeting (ASM) of the aforementioned Corporation will be held virtually or via remote communication on 16 October 2026 at 4:00PM via Zoom webinar. Stockholders can register at https://bit.ly/ATRAMPesoMFASM2026. Webinar password will be sent via email after registration.
The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows:
The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows:
8th Floor 8 Rockwell Building, Hidalgo Drive Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila Tel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8814-7820
The Agenda of the Meeting is as follows: I. Call to Order II. Certification of Notice and Quorum III. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders Meeting held on 01 August 2025 IV. Management Report V. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of 31 December 2025 VI. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors since the last annual stockholders’ meeting VII. Election of Directors for 2026 to 2027 VIII. Filing of Petition for Revocation of Registration of Shares IX. Shortening of Corporate Term X. Appointment of External Auditor for 2026 XI. Other Matters XII. Adjournment Only holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours on 17 August 2026 and whose status as stockholders on that date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the scheduled stockholders’ meeting.
8th Floor 8 Rockwell Building, Hidalgo Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila Tel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8814-7820
I. Call to Order II. Certification of Notice and Quorum III. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders Meeting held on 01 August 2025 IV. Management Report V. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of 31 December 2025 VI. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors since the last annual stockholders’ meeting VII. Election of Directors for 2026 to 2027 VIII. Filing of Petition for Revocation of Registration of Shares IX. Shortening of Corporate Term X. Appointment of External Auditor for 2026 XI. Other Matters XII. Adjournment Only holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours on 17 August 2026 and whose status as stockholders on that date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the scheduled stockholders’ meeting.
Unit 10A, 5th Ave. cor. 26th Street, E-Square Crescent Park West, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila Tel. No. 8814-7800; Fax No. 8814-7820
I. Call to Order II. Certification of Notice and Quorum III. Approval of the Minutes of the Annual Shareholders Meeting held on 01 August 2025 IV. Management Report V. Presentation of the Audited Financial Statements as of 31 December 2025 VI. Ratification of the Corporate Acts of the Board of Directors since the last annual stockholders’ meeting VII. Election of Directors for 2026 to 2027 VIII. Filing of Petition for Revocation of Registration of Shares IX. Shortening of Corporate Term X. Amendment of Articles of Incorporation XI. Amendment of By-laws XII. Appointment of External Auditor for 2026 XIII. Other Matters XIV. Adjournment Only holders of issued stocks of record as at the close of business hours on 17 August 2026 and whose status as stockholders on that date has been satisfactorily established in accordance with the corporate records of the Stock and Transfer Agent and the Corporate Secretary of the Company, will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the scheduled stockholders’ meeting.
Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for the 2026 annual meeting of the stockholders on or before 05 October 2026. All information submitted will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary by 09 October 2026. Successful registrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia.
Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for the 2026 annual meeting of the stockholders on 05 October 2026. All information submitted will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary by 09 October 2026. Successful registrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia.
The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement. The Definitive Information Statement including its exhibits are to be released to the shareholders via email on September 23, 2026 and will be available in the Company’s website.
The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement. The Definitive Information Statement including its exhibits are to be released to the shareholders via email on September 23, 2026 and will be available in the Company’s website.
The procedures for participating in the meeting through remote communication and for casting their votes in absentia are set forth in the Information Statement. The Definitive Information Statement including its exhibits are to be released to the shareholders via email on September 23, 2026 and will be available in the Company’s website.
Makati City, Philippines, 25 August 2026.
Makati City, Philippines, 25 August 2026.
Makati City, Philippines, 11 September 2026.
(Sgd.) ATTY. MA. ALICIA G. PICAZO-SAN JUAN Corporate Secretary
(Sgd.) ATTY. MA. ALICIA G. PICAZO-SAN JUAN Corporate Secretary
Stockholders who intend to participate in the meeting via remote communication and to exercise their vote in absentia must notify the Corporate Secretary by registering through the Company’s website for the 2026 annual meeting of the stockholders on or before 05 October 2026. All information submitted will be subject to verification and validation by the Corporate Secretary by 09 October 2026. Successful registrants will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to access an online web address which will allow them to join the meeting and cast votes in absentia.
(Sgd.) ATTY. MA. ALICIA G. PICAZO-SAN JUAN Corporate Secretary
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extrastory2000@gmail.com RAY S. EÑANO, Editor
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AI data centers pose rising threat to electricity systems worldwide USE of data-intensive technologies–in particular artificial intelligence (AI) data centers– is growing faster than electricity infrastructure can handle, the UN’s economic commission for Europe (UNECE) has warned, raising concerns about the future reliability and resilience of energy systems worldwide. Datacenter consumption is expected to almost double by 2030–from 485 Terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2025 to 950 TWh by 2030, equivalent to three percent of global demand, according to the intergovernmental International Energy Agency (IEA). Investment in datacenter infrastructure worldwide, on the other hand, is forecast to roughly double only by 2050–from around $800 billion per year in 2026 to $1.8 trillion per year in 2050. The Geneva-based commission UNECE warns that in many regions, datacenters and other energy-intensive facilities are being built much faster than the power grids needed to supply them.
Data centers like this one in the Netherlands require a huge amount of power. © Adobe Stock
A large facility can often be built and connected within two to five years, but expanding transmission lines and other grid infrastructure can take more than
10 years because of lengthy planning, approval and construction processes. Straining electricity systems One of the worries is that overloading
electricity systems could cause voltage oscillations, unintended disconnections and cascading failures. This is already happening in some ex-
Resilience averts disasters—UN A USTRALIA and the United Nations called for investments in resilience to minimize disasters, saying risk-informed decision-making help communities anticipate risks.
“The recent disaster events, from the Sarangani earthquake and El Niño in the Philippines, have reinforced the importance of investing in resilience before disasters occur, including strengthening local resilience, advancing risk-informed decisionmaking, and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships,” said Australian Embassy Development Counselor Peter Adams. Australia and the Philippines, led by the Department of the Interior and
Local Government (DILG), along with development partners, local government units, civil society organizations, academia, private sector and resilience practitioners, recently convened for a two-day Resilience Exchange Forum. The event demonstrated how partnerships, innovation and local leadership are translating climate action and disaster resilience commitments into tangible results for communities. The forum is part of the Strengthen-
ing Institutions and Empowering Localities Against Disasters and Climate Change (SHIELD) Program, supported by the Australian government through an investment of AUD20.6 million (P927 million). It serves as a national platform for sharing lessons, scaling proven solutions, advancing investments, and identifying pathways for institutionalizing resilience innovations across the Philippines. “Climate adaptation and resilience are central to human development, because they shape how communities anticipate risks, prepare before disasters occur, and make informed choices on their future,” said UNDP Resident Representative in the Philippines Christophe Bahuet.
“Through SHIELD, and with the strong support of the Australian Government and close collaboration with Philippine national and local authorities, UNDP is helping connect policy, local governance, partnerships, and financing so that resilience is not only planned, but built into development where it matters most,” he said. The two-day forum brought together national and local government leaders, development partners and resilience practitioners to explore ways to advance science and innovation, improve access to climate finance, strengthen resilience governance, and develop investment-ready projects that can attract support from government, development partners and the private sector. UNDP Philippines News
Globe marks 917 GDay 2026 with over 800 participants GLOBE Telecom Inc. marked GDay 2026 by bringing its people together through shared experiences, appreciation and giving back. Through 917 Globe of Good, more than 800 employee volunteers shared their time and skills with communities, while employees pledged over ₱2 million to support the initiative. A key part of GDay is 917 Globe of Good, which brought employees together volunteer activities in education, hunger alleviation and nutrition, disaster relief, online safety and digital inclusion.
A section of Samar Island Natural Park in Paranas, Samar in this undated photo. A large-scale forest restoration initiative seeking to rehabilitate and protect 120,000 hectares of degraded rainforest within the SINP. (Photo courtesy of Paranas LGU)
treme cases, in systems that depend on renewable energy sources. Electricity demand from AI datacenters is volatile and can spike unexpectedly: grids that rely on renewable energies cannot adjust in real time, UNECE points out. This mismatch between demand and supply has led several countries to take energy-saving measures to prevent overloading their national networks. Ireland, which has one of the highest concentrations of datacenters in the world, has introduced connection restrictions in Dublin, and the Netherlands has introduced constraints on where datacenters can be built. Splitting the bill A particularly important unresolved issue is who should pay for the grid upgrades. Connecting large data centers can require significant infrastructure investment, but there is no consistent framework determining how these costs should be divided between datacenter developers, electricity companies and consumers. UN News
Green Samar seeks rehab of rainforest By Roel Amazona TACLOBAN CITY – A large-scale forest restoration initiative is seeking to rehabilitate and protect 120,000 hectares of degraded rainforest within the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP). Dubbed as Green Samar Project, the initiative aims to restore degraded forests, conserve biodiversity, enhance climate resilience and promote sustainable management of natural resources in the SINP, the country’s largest terrestrial protected area. The privately-backed project is a collaboration among the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, French nature restoration firm aDryada and local partner Samar Bamboo Corp. under a 25-year agreement, with an option to extend the partnership for another 25 years. The project is expected to mobilize around P80 million in annual investments through high-integrity carbon finance, without relying on public funds. Beyond forest restoration, the initiative is expected to generate jobs and sustainable bamboo-based livelihood opportunities for more than 20,000 community members, while helping protect critical wildlife habitats, including those of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle found within the SINP. “This project will address poverty while protecting the environment, noting that bamboo development could provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for communities while supporting forest conservation,” Samar Gov. Sharee Ann Tan said in a statement last week. Tan recognized local government units in Samar for their communitybased tourism initiatives and advocacy for environmental conservation and protection, including the town of Paranas where the SINP office is located.PNA
Global weather agencies: The world just had the hottest August ever
Through these activities, employees took the celebration outside the workplace and into the communities Globe serves. A major part of this year’s Globe of Good was Senior Digizen, which engaged more than 600 senior citizens in Makati alone. Ka-Globe volunteers guided participants on using technology for everyday needs, navigating useful digital services, recognizing potential scams and staying safe online. Globe also brought the program to senior citizens in Taguig, extending its efforts to help more seniors use technology with greater confidence. Employees also worked alongside partner organizations across Metro Manila to address other community needs. With the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), volunteers repacked family food packs, while others prepared and served meals through SOS Rescue Kitchen.
EARTH just had the hottest August on record, according to newly released weather data. The planetary heat record was documented by monthly reports from the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Service, the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA. Its effects were felt around the planet, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said last week. The northern hemisphere experienced its warmest summer while the southern hemisphere had a nearrecord warm winter. Meanwhile, the Arctic and Antarctic each had below-average sea ice coverage in August. Western Europe saw heatwaves in August, continuing an exceptional run of extreme heat that began in May, and severe drought conditions were reported in France, Hungary, Romania, Serbia and the United Kingdom. Large parts of central and eastern Europe also saw widespread dryness in August, in some cases persisting since May. Water flow levels were exceptionally low in major European rivers, including the Rhine, Danube, Southern Bug and Dnieper. Why so hot? El Niño was one of the drivers of August’s record climate conditions, WMO reported. The climate pattern influenced global tropical cyclone activity as well as heavy rainfall and floods in some countries. Other countries were impacted by drought, with
El Niño conditions favoring the intensification of seasonal wildfires across Indonesia, as reported by the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS). What it means Data indicates that all 10 of the warmest Augusts on record have occurred since 2016. In terms of heat, the global average surface air temperature in August was 1.65°C higher than the estimated pre-industrial baseline, the latest data revealed.
At the same time, the global surface temperature was 1.32°C above the 20th-century average–the warmest August since records began in 1850, according to the US National Centers for Environmental Information. Predictions for what El Niño will bring are sobering. “It is now firmly established and will intensify into a very strong event in the coming months, with big impacts on rainfall and temperature patterns well into 2027,” according to WMO’s latest El Niño Update.
Vast expanse of the ocean at sunset with fiery orange and red clouds reflecting on the water surface, illustrating record-high sea temperatures in the tropical Pacific. © WMO/Matthew Wilson
PAPUA NEW GUINEA Celebrates 51st Independence Day
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PNG at 51: Rich in resources, rooted in culture By Peter Paul Duran
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S Papua New Guinea marks 51 years of independence, the colors of red, black and gold once again fly across a country whose wealth lies as much in its people and traditions as in the resources beneath its soil. More than half a century after gaining independence on Sept. 16, 1975, PNG stands at a familiar but important crossroads: how to turn its considerable natural wealth into opportunity that reaches more of its people. The country is richly endowed with minerals, oil and gas, forests, fisheries and fertile agricultural land. Beyond its major resource projects, however, another economy is at work—in coffee and cocoa farms, community markets, fisheries and small businesses that sustain families across the archipelago. For PNG, the task ahead is to make that wealth work more broadly. Better roads and infrastructure can connect communities to markets. Investments in education and agriculture can create opportunities beyond the extractive industries, while stronger local enterprises can provide jobs for a young and growing population. Yet some of Papua New Guinea’s greatest riches cannot be measured in exports. A country of many cultures Few countries possess PNG’s cultural diversity. Hundreds of languages are spoken across its mountains, valleys, river systems and islands, alongside traditions that have endured for generations. The kundu drum still provides the rhythm for ceremonies. Bilum bags continue to be woven by hand. Elaborate traditional dress transforms festivals and singsings into spectacular displays of community identity, while carving, storytelling and dance preserve histories that were passed down long before independence. These traditions are not simply remnants of the past. They remain part of everyday Papua New Guinean life. They also offer possibilities for the future.
MOMENTUM WHERE IT MATTERS
Building from a one-country operation at the Port of Manila in the Philippines, ICTSI has pressed forward across 38 years. On six continents, currently in 19 countries, we continue developing ports that deliver transformative benefits.
All across our operations, we work closely with our business and government partners, with our clients and host communities: to keep building momentum where it matters, in and through ports that keep driving sustainable growth.
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Tourism and the creative industries can provide communities with livelihoods built around what makes
PNG distinctive—from traditional arts and handicrafts to fashion, music, film and cultural experiences.
This handout photo taken on March 1, 2026, and released by the World Bank on July 2 shows Maureen Ken, who employs 80 local people at her coffee processing factory in Goroka, located in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. Gold and gas-driven economic growth in Papua New Guinea, the South Pacific’s largest nation, is leaving its people behind, the World Bank warned in a report released on July 2. AFP
Scouts carry a flag during a flag-raising ceremony marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th independence anniversary in Port Moresby last September 16, 2025. AFP
The opportunity, however, comes with a responsibility: development should not diminish the very heritage that gives the country its identity. Economic expansion, environmental stewardship and cultural preservation will increasingly have to move together as Papua New Guinea navigates its next decades. At 51, independence is therefore more than an anniversary of the day
a new flag was raised. It is an unfinished national story— one written in mines and markets, farms and fishing grounds, villages and growing cities, but also in the languages, customs and traditions carried from one generation to another. Papua New Guinea enters another year of nationhood rich in resources, rooted in culture and looking toward what comes next.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
portraying,” she elaborated. When asked whom she would dedicate the award to, Ashtine did not hesitate. “I dedicate it to Jesus. And of course, to my family and everyone who supports me,” she said. “I truly believe that everything I have accomplished, I was able to do because of what the Lord has given me.” Public attention also comes with criticism, but Ashtine said she tries not to give too much space to negative comments. “I don’t really hear the hate and bashing that much,” she said. “When you are surrounded by so much love, you don’t really know how to respond to the negativity anymore. You no longer understand what is wrong.” She remains particularly grateful to her fans, who she said defend her without being asked. “I am extremely grateful to my fans,” Ashtine said. “They are the ones who defend me. They do it voluntarily to support me in my dreams.” Meanwhile, at the Vivaoke launch, Ahstine appeared alongside Amiel Sol, Aubrey Caraan, and Carl Guevarra of The Juans. Vivaoke is Viva Communications Inc. and Viva Music Group’s new karaoke app built
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SHTINE Olviga never saw the trophy coming. The young actress admitted she had no expectations of winning Best Actress at the Manila International Film Festival, making the recognition all the more emotional when the news finally reached her. Ashtine Olviga credits her faith, family, and supporters after receiving an acting honor she never expected to win
Very Wang
Nickie Wang
Ashtine was unable to attend the Hollywood awards ceremony because of visa requirements. She recalled trying to find an earlier appointment with her director, even driving around to secure a slot, but the earliest available date was Sept. 3, while her scheduled flight was earlier that month. So instead of hearing her name called from the stage, she received the news from home. “Actually, Direk and I talked about it. He told me, ‘You won Best Actress.’ I really didn’t expect it,” Ashtine recalled during the launch of Vivaoke. “When I found out, I was really overwhelmed. I actually cried,” she said. Ashtine has never approached acting with a trophy in mind. Her priority, she explained, has always been giving everything she has to a character. “When I act, I don’t expect to win an award. I just want to give 100 percent whenever I do it,” she related. There is a simple reason behind that approach. She wants to watch her own work afterward without wondering whether she could have done more. “I want to be able to watch myself and think, ‘I wish I had done it this way,’” she said. Ashtine knows those expectations can become distracting, but she is trying to keep her eyes on the reason she became an actress in the first place. “I still try to set that aside and focus more on my goal, which is really the goal of every artist: to make the audience feel the character we are
Ashtine Olviga on her unexpected MIFF Best Actress win Carl Guevarra of The Juans takes part in the Vivaoke launch, which introduces an all-OPM karaoke platform with recording, scoring, and sharing features
‘Resident Evil’ storms the box office with $60 million opening
Austin Abrams plays a medical courier fighting mutant creatures in Zach Cregger’s video game adaptation, which opens at No. 1 in North America
RESIDENT EVIL, a horror movie based on a video game franchise, swept the North American box office with a $60 million opening weekend, industry estimates showed Sunday. The Sony-distributed movie is directed by Zach Cregger and stars Austin Abrams, who plays a medical courier battling mutant creatures to deliver a package to a remote hospital. Resident Evil displaced last week’s top performer, Warner Bros.’ Practical Magic 2, a long-awaited sequel starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, into a distant second place. The story of the modern-day witches, who face a curse that sees any man they fall in love with doomed to an early death, took $12.2 million after last weekend knocking
Sony’s Spider-Man from its weekslong perch at the top. Spidey took another $6.5 million this weekend, bringing its total take in the United States and Canada to $944.5 million. It was followed by another of 2026’s strongest performers, The Odyssey, which took $4.9 million. For the second consecutive weekend, Coyote vs Acme took fifth place, with Will Forte and an animated Wile E. Coyote snaring another $4.5 million for Falling Forward Films. Rounding out the top 10 were The Runner, with $3.2 million; Daniel and the Fiery Furnace, with $3.1 million; Transformers: The Movie, with $3.1 million; The Weight, with $2.3 million; and Buddy, with $1.9 million. AFP
Aubrey Caraan joins fellow OPM artists at the Vivaoke launch as the new karaoke app brings Filipino songs from different generations into one digital catalog
around an all-OPM catalog. The platform taps into the Filipino love affair with karaoke, bringing songs from different generations into a digital space where subscribers can sing, record their performances, save sessions and share them on social media. Its catalog ranges from classics such as Hotdog’s “Bongga Ka ‘Day” and Sharon Cuneta’s “Bituing Walang Ningning” to newer hits including Sarah Geronimo’s “Tala” and James Reid and Nadine Lustre’s “Hanap-Hanap.” Current chart entries include “Sa Bawat Sandali” by Amiel Sol, “Miss Miss” by Rob Deniel, “Tibok” by Earl Agustin, “Multo” by Cup of Joe, and “Isa Lang” by Arthur Nery. Vivaoke also features an in-app scoring system, turning the familiar living-room karaoke battle into a digital contest.
Sharon Cuneta heaps praise Shticks on Barbie Forteza, Khalil Ramos Joseph Peter Gonzales SHARON Cuneta has developed a soft spot for her Honor Thy Mother co-stars Barbie Forteza and Khalil Ramos, praising them for their acting talent and their devotion to family. During a recent television guesting, the Megastar revealed just how fond she has become of the young stars. “I have fallen in love with Barbie, very hard. Barbie and Khalil. And I call lots of people ‘anak,’ but those who are closest to me among the younger crop of stars are number one, Julia (Montes), Alden (Richards), Julia (Barretto) and now, Barbie and Khalil,” she stated. Sharon was particularly impressed by Barbie’s acting saying “Barbie is amazing for her age. It’s like she has gone through five lifetimes already considering the emotional depth she exhibits on screen. She’s so good!” Khalil, meanwhile, won her over with both his character and upbringing. “I adore Khalil. He’s such a good boy. Definitely, his parents did such a good job in raising him. But Barbie as well. Before she thinks of herself, she prioritizes her family instead. I admire that!” Sharon also sees plenty of herself in Diana Aragon, the character she plays in the currently airing drama series, a collaboration among GMA Network, ABS-CBN Studios, and Prime Video. “I play the character of Diana Aragon in the story. The show highlights her being a daughter and mother. And I can relate to that because until their death, I took care of my parents. I guess the public knows that.” Sharon has never hidden her closeness to her father or
the complicated relationship she had with her mother. “Everyone knows that I’m closer to my dad. My mom and I had friction at certain points, but I never lost respect or love for my mom. I love her to the moon and back.” She also believes caring for aging parents is a responsibility children should embrace. “But when you’re a daughter or son, you should make it a responsibility to take care of your folks.” As a mother, Sharon admitted she would also appreciate hearing her children express their gratitude someday. “Yes, that would be nice. But when it comes to taking care of me, I don’t want t o
impose. I don’t want to be a burden to my children. But the good thing is they always tell me: ‘Of course not, Mama, we’ll take care of you,’ because you’ll never know what tomorrow will bring. After all, you are family,” Sharon ended. *** GMA artist Will Ashley is savoring a career milestone after earning a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the forthcoming 49th Gawad Urian for Bar Boys: After School, a 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival entry. The recognition means even more to Will after his previous wins at the 2025 MMFF and the 9th EDDYS. “I’m very happy and grateful that the critics recognized my work for the said film. I won in the 2025 MMFF and the 9th EDDYS so this latest nomination gives me a different high,” he averred. A Gawad Urian nomination has long been a dream for the young actor. “That’s right! And now that it finally happened, I’m super happy. This nomination is definitely a huge honor. If luckily, I’ll be able to get the plum, I would be very glad and humbled.” Will is also preparing for a new challenge with his upcoming show, Delivery Boi, which takes him into comedy territory. “It’s a fresh genre for me. I’m used to doing drama but this time around, it will be comedy. So, it will be a big adjustment to me,” Will said. Sharon Cuneta (right) counts Barbie Forteza and Khalil Ramos among the younger stars she has grown close to while working on ‘Honor Thy Mother’
LIFE Nadine Lustre fronts a 50thanniversary campaign that revisits a memorable 1990s concept while introducing updated denim silhouettes to a new generation
C3 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
Nadine Lustre goes bold in denim’s next style chapter FIFTY years after JAG first made its mark on Philippine denim, the brand is turning to Nadine Lustre to lead it into its next chapter. The actress and fashion figure has joined JAG as its newest face, a move unveiled during MNL Fashion Week as the denim brand celebrates its golden anniversary. The partnership brings together a familiar name from JAG’s archive and a modern fashion personality, with Nadine taking the spotlight in a contemporary revival of the brand’s memorable 1990s “Merman” campaign. This time, the concept returns as “Mermaid.” Nadine emerged as its new protagonist during the runway presentation, giving a decades-old JAG campaign a distinctly modern makeover. The presentation also featured 10 artisanal, avant-garde denim looks created by the JAG design team. Exaggerated silhouettes, intricate construction and unexpected treatments pushed the familiar fabric into
more experimental territory. JAG also introduced Denim Gold, its anniversary collection built around five of its signature silhouettes: Skinny, Straight Cut, Barrel, Ultra Flare and Ultra Wide. The classic shapes have been reworked with updated fits, proportions and details, while gold accents run through the collection as a nod to JAG’s 50-year milestone. For Nadine, the appeal of the partnership lies in the balance between heritage and change. “What I like about JAG is that it has such a strong identity and so much history, but it isn’t afraid to evolve,” she said. “I think that’s what makes this partnership exciting for me.” She added that the collaboration feels “less like one campaign and more like the beginning of a new chapter.” JAG Group marketing director Donnie Manaloto said the brand’s anniversary is an opportunity to build on its history while making its denim relevant to a new
generation. “We have an incredible heritage in denim, but heritage only matters if you continue to make it relevant,” Manaloto said. That means changes not only to the products, he added, but also to how JAG communicates, creates experiences and participates in fashion and popular culture. Nadine’s arrival is part of a larger push by JAG as it heads toward its major 50th anniversary celebration in November. More product stories, collaborations and consumer experiences are expected in the coming months. The anniversary may be about looking back, but JAG appears more interested in what happens next. Five decades have left the brand with plenty of history to draw from. Now, with Nadine at the forefront, JAG is taking those familiar pieces and giving them a new lease on life. Denim Gold is available online, at leading department stores and at JAG boutiques nationwide.
Build a better home entertainment setup without overspending
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By Nickie Wang
GOOD home entertainment setup can turn an ordinary night into something worth staying in for. From blockbuster movies and K-drama marathons to live sports and online gaming, the right screen, sound system, and internet connection can make shared moments at home more enjoyable. With technology becoming more accessible, upgrading the experience no longer has to mean spending a fortune. Through its partnership with Samsung, the global No. 1 TV and soundbar brand, PLDT Home is offering subscribers exclusive discounts onselected Samsung TVs and entertainment devices, making it easier to upgrade the home entertainment setup without overspending. Choose a bigger screen for shared entertainment A larger display can transform movie nights, K-drama binges, and sports viewing. Samsung’s Mini LED and OLED TVs are available in screen sizes from 50 to 100 inches, offering high-resolution viewing at home. Paired with a reliable fiber connection, these TVs can support smooth 4K streaming. Bring cinema-quality sound into your living room A quality soundbar can add richer audio to movies, concerts, and sports without the complexity of a full home theater system. Samsung’s Q-Symphony technology allows compatible TVs and soundbars to work together, combining their speakers for a more immersive experience. Maximize your streaming experience with reliable fiber internet Even the best smart TV needs a reliable connection. Modern TVs support features such as Auto Low Latency Mode, high refresh rates, and ultra-high-definition streaming. Samsung Smart TVs also come with Samsung TV Plus, which provides free live and on-demand entertainment. A dependable fiber connection can support 4K streaming, online gaming, and video calls across the household. Build your entertainment setup over time A dream entertainment setup does not have to happen all at once. Families can start with a reliable fiber connection and smart TV, then add a soundbar or smart home accessories as their needs and budget allow. Choose bundles that offer greater value PLDT Home’s limited-time Samsung deal gives subscribers up to 15 percent off plus P2,000 worth of stackable vouchers when they purchase select Samsung TVs. Customers who pay through Home Credit can also get an additional 5 percent off. The PLDT Home Fiber Unli All 1499 plan combines fiber internet with Smart mobile data, unlimited landline calls, Cignal TV, and HBO Max in a single subscription, while also giving customers access to exclusive Samsung savings. A smarter home entertainment setup is not simply about having the biggest screen or newest device. It is about combining reliable connectivity with the right entertainment technology to make everyday moments at home more enjoyable.
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Manila’s first indoor tennis studio changes the way we play TENNIS is having a moment in Manila, and suddenly, getting on court feels a lot more exciting. With the sport gaining fresh attention following Alex Eala’s historic victories, more Filipinos are discovering the thrill of picking up a racket and playing for themselves. But in a city where rain, traffic, busy schedules and scarce court time can easily derail a game, finding the perfect time to play is another match altogether. Enter AVARI Tennis Studio, the Philippines’ first indoor tennis simulation studio, which has opened at The Podium Mall in Mandaluyong. Founded by entrepreneur cousins Abby Frias Teotico and Anton Bernal, both tennis enthusiasts, AVARI was created to make training more accessible while adding a high-tech twist to the traditional tennis experience. Teotico started playing tennis as a teenager, but the sport became a bigger part of her lifestyle over the past four years. She describes tennis as a physical and mental challenge, where every point demands discipline, strategy and
The concept developed by cousins Abby Frias Teotico and Anton Bernal gives players an indoor option for regular practice at The Podium Mall in Mandaluyong
resilience. “We opened AVARI because we experienced firsthand how difficult it can be for people to consistently improve in tennis,” Teotico said. “Busy schedules, court availability, weather, traffic, and finding practice partners often become barriers to playing and developing the sport.” The studio features three enclosed courts fitted with South Korean-made tennis simulation technology. The 12mm tempered glass walls surround tournament-grade flooring calibrated to replicate the feel of an actual tennis court. The technology tracks ball speed, spin, shot placement and consistency, giving players immediate data to work with after each session. Training modes can also be adjusted according to skill level, from beginners taking their first swings to competitive players looking for more intensive practice. There is a playful side, too. Kids can train at a slower pace, while Arcade Mode turns tennis into an interactive game, challenging players to hit virtual targets on screen.
Families can improve movie nights, sports viewing, and gaming by combining a larger screen, better sound, and reliable internet (AI-generated image)
The studio pushes for more accessible training that includes simulator courts tracking ball speed, spin, placement, and consistency
Coaching and training programs for players ranging from first-timers to those looking for more intensive practice are available
AVARI also offers coaching and training programs led by Roland Kraut, former Philippine Davis Cup coach and current head of the De La Salle University UAAP Tennis program. Racket rentals, demo equipment and training aids are available for those who arrive without their own gear. “We want to remove the barriers that often prevent people from playing, whether it’s time, weather, court availability, or feeling intimidated as a beginner,” Teotico said. AVARI is located on the fifth floor of The Podium Mall, Mandaluyong.
LIFE
C4
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer
The South Luzon event brings together fitness enthusiasts and shoppers for its relay and newly introduced 8K categories
Heavy rain does little to dampen participation as runners continue through the program at Vermosa Sports Hub
Thousands of runners go the distance in a race like no other
NOW & NEXT
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By Nickie Wang
HE rain fell heavily across the southern part of the metro, but it did little to deter thousands of runners who gathered at Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite, for the South Luzon leg of Puregold’s Hakot Relay. More than 4,000 fitness and running enthusiasts, Puregold patrons, and members of the media took part in the event, which combined a conventional relay race with an unusual requirement: collecting groceries along the course. This year’s event introduced another challenge. The South Luzon leg marked the debut of Puregold’s first 8K Individual Challenge, allowing solo runners to compete over the longer distance. About 500 participants took on the 8-kilometer course, while the rest joined the Hakot Relay, the event’s signature team competition. The distinction was straightforward. The relay required runners to work with teammates, strategize, and collect grocery items before reaching the finish line. The 8K challenge, meanwhile, put the entire distance and pace in the hands of individual runners. “We wanted to offer runners
a fresh and enjoyable way to challenge themselves, with the ‘hakot’ mechanic adding a playful and uniquely Puregold twist to the race,” said Ivy HayaganPiedad, Puregold senior marketing manager. “Being part of the running
More ways to gather or go solo Fish & Co. rolls out meals for sharing and dining alone By Angelica Villanueva
Participants bring a festive spirit to the South Luzon leg as the grocery-themed event draws more than 4,000 runners in Imus, Cavite
Teams balance speed and strategy as they collect grocery items before making their way to the finish line
community is meaningful to us, and it is a privilege for Puregold to bring people together for a shared panalo experience.” Participants began with a prerace warm-up before heading to the starting line. After completing
Extra seafood can be added from P395, while diners who want rice can choose a P150 Plain Rice Platter or P250 Seafood Rice Platter. Two additional pieces of corn cost P300. For customers dining alone, Fish & Co. is also offering All Yours, All Day Season 3, which allows diners to put together an appetizer, entrée, and drink, with sets starting at P385. The appetizer choices are garden salad and Caesar salad. Entrées include Fish and Squid Sisig, Fish with Garlic Parmesan, Grilled Pork Loin with Brown Gravy Sauce, Chicken Curry, and Grilled Honey Lime BBQ Chicken, which carries an additional P65 charge. The two offerings approach dining from different directions. The Fisherman’s Bucket makes the meal a shared activity, while All Yours, All Day gives solo diners a complete set built around individual choice. Both are available at Fish & Co. branches in Shangri-La Plaza, Uptown Mall in Bonifacio Global City, and Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley. Prices are VAT-inclusive and subject to a 10 percent service charge. The offers cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts, including BFF and senior citizen discounts.
THERE is little formality in a seafood spread meant to be shared. Hands reach across the table, shells pile up, and sauces move from one diner to the next as everyone works through the same serving. Fish & Co. is bringing that kind of communal dining experience to its new Fisherman’s Bucket while also introducing a separate meal format for customers who prefer to dine on their own. For groups, the Fisherman’s Bucket brings together clams, mussels, tiger prawns, crab and corn on the cob in Singaporean sauce. Diners can pair the seafood with Singapore chili, lemon butter, chili garlic, or Clams, mussels, tiger prawns, crab, and corn come ginger sauces, allowing each together in a communal seafood offering served with a choice of sauces person at the table to adjust the flavors to their preference. Its setup also makes eating part of the activity. Shellfish requires some work, and a bucket meant for several people naturally turns the meal into something passed around and picked apart together. Two portions are available. The Sailor’s Catch, priced at P1,850, serves two to three people and includes 120 grams of clams, 150 grams of mussels, 200 grams of tiger prawns, 250 grams of crab, and two pieces of corn. Larger groups can order the Captain’s Bucket for P2,950. Intended for four to five people, it includes 250 grams of clams, 300 grams of mussels, 400 grams of tiger prawns, 500 grams of The casual dining concept gives customers a choice between large seafood servings crab, and four pieces of corn. for groups and complete meal sets for individual diners
their respective courses within the prescribed cut-off times, they collected their race-day rewards and visited sampling booths from participating brands. Stage activities led by sponsors and an awarding ceremony followed the races. The rewards also followed the event’s grocery theme. Hakot Relay participants received a Grocery Sling Bag and a Finisher’s Grocery Bag. The solo 8K finishers had a different reward waiting for them: a finisher’s grocery cart wagon, allowing them to wheel their
groceries home. “We’re always looking for ways to level up the Hakot Relay and give Filipinos something new to look forward to,” Piedad said. “This year, this meant introducing our first-ever 8K challenge and bringing the experience to an even bigger scale.” The South Luzon leg expanded the Hakot Relay’s format while retaining its defining feature. Whether running as part of a team or alone, participants crossed the finish line with a practical prize waiting at the other end: groceries.
SM Beauty brings more Korean and Asian skincare, makeup, and hair-care options to shoppers through its pop-up at SM Mega Fashion Hall
SM Beauty expands Korean and Asian beauty selection KOREAN beauty continues to influence beauty routines around the world, with Asian brands, formulations, and beauty rituals gaining a growing following among consumers. In the Philippines, SM Beauty is making Korean and Asian beauty products more accessible through its selection of skincare, makeup, and hair and scalp care brands under its #SoMuchKBeauty campaign. The retailer carries established and emerging names including Deoproce, COSRX, Beauty of Joseon, Round Lab, Genabelle, Some By Mi, and Torriden. Japanese brands such as Hada Labo, Senka, and Bioré are also available. The selection gives shoppers options for building skincare routines around different needs, with products from brands known for their
formulations and straightforward approaches to skincare. The Korean and Asian beauty selection extends beyond skincare and makeup. SM Beauty also carries hair and scalp care brands such as Tsubaki, Super Mild, and Fino. Select SM Beauty branches feature dedicated Korean and Asian beauty sections where customers can browse and try products in person. With more than 79 branches nationwide, SM Beauty offers shoppers access to a range of Korean and Asian beauty products, whether they are longtime K-beauty users or are beginning to explore the category. As part of the campaign, SM Beauty held a special pop-up at SM Mega Fashion Hall from Sept. 15 to 21, where shoppers could explore Korean and Asian beauty products firsthand.