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AGRI CHIEF BACKS NATIONAL STATE OF CALAMITY RESPONSE TO EL NIÑO By Othel V. Campos and Charles Dantes AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. yesterday backed the declaration of state of calamity to mobilize government resources to assist some 4.6 million farmers and fisherfolk that might be affected by Super El Niño, which could also slash palay production by an estimated million metric tons. Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines is bet-

ter prepared for a potentially stronger El Niño next year than during the 2024 drought, citing higher dam water levels and expanded irrigation infrastructure. Tiu Laurel supported the proposal of Senate Committee on Agriculture chairman Francis Pangilinan, who called for early government intervention as agricultural damage spreads across five regions. “I agree that declaring a state of calamity would be a good idea because all indications point to a Super Next page

VOL. XL • NO. 252 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P20 •SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026 •

Gov’t sets record P50m bounty for Bato’s arrest

Gibo: Any threat vs. BRP Sierra Madre an ‘act of war’ By Rex Espiritu

DILG: Dela Rosa number 1 priority, armed and dangerous

ANY attempt by China to tow away the grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal would be considered an act of war against the Philippines, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said yesterday. “Any threat against BRP Sierra Madre will be taken very seriously Next page

By Vince Lopez

HE government has put a record P50million bounty on the head of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, the top enforcer of former President Rodrigo Duterte's bloody anti-drug crackdown, nearly a year after the International Criminal Court (ICC) ordered his arrest.

• PNP: One-week ultimatum set for Bato to surrender

“He is priority number 1. He is allegedly part of the conspiracy to kill from a minimum of 6,000 to as much as 30,000 during the (Duterte administration’s) drug war,” Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said. Asked if the bounty for Dela Rosa’s arrest is the highest-ever reward money offered for a fugitive, Remulla said: “Yes, it is.” "As of today, Senator Bato will be

SOLAR-POWERED IRRIGATION. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the

inauguration of the Tugbong Solar Pump Irrigation Project in Kananga, Leyte which the Department of Agriculture (DA) at National Irrigation Administration (NIA) fast-tracked in accordance with his directive to speed up anti-El Nino projects. PCO

Ex-BTA solon denies involvement in failed shabu smuggling attempt FORMER Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament member Sultan Edrieza Nasser Rimbang on Friday denied allegations that he was linked to a 521-kilogram drug shipment in Laos allegedly bound for the Philippines. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla

BUSTED. About 200 scam hub suspects sit on

previously named Rimbang and 10 other individuals as persons of interest in an attempted drug-smuggling operation involving suspected shabu. The P3.5b shabu shipment, allegedly bound for Manila, was intercepted in Laos. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) also identified Next page

the floor while awaiting questioning after a raid by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Subic, Olongapo City. National Bureau of Investigation

NBI nabs 200 Viets in raid on suspected Subic scam hub By Gwyneth Nolasco THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has secured around 200 Vietnamese nationals in an operation it conducted on Thursday after shutting down a scam hub in Subic, Olongapo City. NBI agents seized computers, mobile phones and documents used in the scam hub's operations. Next page

Pulong files cyber-libel case vs. Matibag, Gracioso and GMA 7 By Gwyneth Nolasco DAVAO City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte on Friday filed libel and cyberlibel complaints against National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin Matibag and dismissed policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. over the claims of cash delivery to their family. Matibag asserted, however, that he would face the charges filed by Duterte, if proven that he is respon-

sible for Duterte’s allegations. GMA Network executives and journalists were also included in the complaint. “Just now, we filed libel and cyber libel charges against Melvin Matibag, Gracioso, and some personalities from GMA News' 24 Oras because of their statements which have no basis and intend to destroy (my) reputation,” Duterte told reporters in Davao.

PRIDE MARCH. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their supporters march yesterday along the Academic Oval at the University of the Philippines Diliman in Quezon City, carrying rainbow flags and placards calling for marriage equality, transgender visibility, and equal rights for all. Edd Castro

CAYETANO RETAINS 'ANTE KLER' AT PCO

DIESEL PRICES SEEN UP BY P2 TO 2.50/L

PESO SLIDES TO NEW LOW OF P63.61-US$1

NEWS / A2

NEWS / A3

BUSINESS / B2

NEWS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Agri... From A1

El Niño. Everyone around the world is saying this, so we had better act fast,” he said, citing forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and assessments by climate experts. Pangilinan said a declaration could help mobilize resources and institutional support to address droughtrelated losses before conditions worsen. He stressed that the government should not wait for agricultural damage to escalate before implementing interventions. Pangilinan cited the 2014-2015 cocolisap infestation, which affected about two million coconut trees in CALABARZON and threatened to spread to Bicol, but was contained through government interventions, including a state of calamity declaration under former President Benigno Aquino III. The declaration helped unlock about P500 million in additional support, allowing authorities to address the crisis within six months. Pangilinan offered his office's assistance in pushing the proposed declaration and urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to work with him in persuading President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to approve the measure. The DA's worst-case scenario projects that 4.6 million of the country's estimated 10.4 million farmers and fisherfolk could be affected by a strong El Niño, potentially reducing palay production by one million metric tons. Agriculture undersecretary for rice industry development Christopher Morales said a calamity declaration would strengthen contingency planning and allow the DA to implement mitigation measures promptly. “This will allow us to anticipate risks, minimize potential damage, and respond swiftly to areas threatened by the impacts of Super El Niño,” Morales said. adding that the DA aims to limit agricultural losses and protect food production as the country prepares for worsening dry conditions. The declaration could provide a framework for coordinating government assistance, although the specific funding and interventions would depend on applicable laws and implementing decisions. Gov't accelerating irrigation and water conservation projects “As of the moment, we are already feeling its effects, and temperatures are rising. They say this will continue until next year,” the President said. He said the government was accelerating irrigation projects and water conservation measures to mitigate the lexpected impacts of the dry spell on agricultural production and household water supplies. “That is why we are making sure our irrigation systems are in place, and we continue building irrigation systems for our farmers and their various crops,” the President said. Mr. Marcos said the government had completed 3,000 solar pump irrigation systems nationwide, with about 70 percent of the country's irrigable land now receiving irrigation. He said the administration was accelerating water infrastructure projects to protect farmers and households from the anticipated dry spell. The two sites of the Tugbong project will irrigate 115 hectares of farmland, potentially allowing farmers to increase their harvests from two planting seasons a year to three. "Those who previously had only two planting seasons may be able to increase that to three,” Marcos said. He said solar-powered irrigation systems could reduce farmers' production costs by eliminating their dependence on diesel-powered pumps. " You would probably spend about P20,000 pesos per season to irrigate your land. That is why we continue expanding these systems,” the President noted. The government has also been distributing smaller solar-powered pumps through the Department of Agriculture to help farmers reduce irrigation expenses, he said. Mr. Marcos said preparations for the expected El Niño included expanding irrigation facilities, developing water catchment areas and accelerating the construction of water storage and distribution systems. He said dam water levels were higher than at the start of the 2024 drought, which he described as a severe dry spell that left the country without rain for nine months.

‘Ante Kler’ survives PCO revamp as Lino describes her as a ‘treasure’ Cayetano described Castro as a "treasure" to the administration and said he looked forward to working closely with her to communicate government initiatives and respond to criticism. "I haven’t seen someone who can articulate what this government is doing," Cayetano said, adding that Castro would play a key role in translating government policies and programs into information that Filipinos

can understand. Asked about Castro’s combative responses to critics of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration, Cayetano said he had no problem with her approach, provided the agency remained focused on explaining government policies and their intended benefits. "I think we just have to be a little bit more focused on the things we

want to talk about," he said. Cayetano said he admired Castro’s efforts to defend the administration and explain its actions to Filipinos, adding that she could hold her own against critics. He emphasized, however, that the PCO must equip its spokespersons with sufficient information to explain why the government is pursuing particular policies and changing bureaucratic processes. “What matters to me is that we can convey all the important information about the administration's programs and policies so the Filipino people can feel it and understand why we are doing this,” Cayetano said. Beyond responding to criticism, Cayetano said the PCO should strengthen its presence on the ground by engaging with universities, baran-

Gov’t...

“The PNP is always ready for that, whether peaceful or it will come to an armed confrontation…Of course, we would like to have a peaceful resolution of whatsoever conflicts, especially in the implementation of any warrant, whether search warrant or arrest warrant,” he added. The law firm Torreon and Partners questioned the bounty offered against its client. “The only document the government has is a warrant from the International Criminal Court. That is a foreign tribunal under a treaty the Philippines withdrew from effective March 17, 2019. No Philippine judge has examined that warrant, adopted it, or issued one of his own,” the law firm said in a Facebook post. Nartatez said Dela Rosa was likely

being protected "by an armed group or group of supporters" as he warned that the senator’s coddlers will "face the consequences.” Dela Rosa had mostly been in hiding for months before The Hague-based ICC unsealed the November 2025 arrest warrant against him in May. Dela Rosa emerged from months of hiding on May 11 to take refuge inside the Senate building, but slipped out days later following a standoff between security guards and investigators attempting to arrest him, in which shots were fired. The bounty came just over a month before Duterte is to stand trial on November 30 for the crimes against humanity of murder and attempted murder. Remulla, who earlier expressed

regret over his decision not to arrest Dela Rosa while the latter was in the Senate, said the lawmaker "has shown nothing but cowardice by going into and remaining in hiding.” "Senator Bato mistook my gesture of negotiation as a sign of weakness. It's time for the gloves to come off. It's time to bring justice to his victims,” the Interior chief said. Dela Rosa was named as among eight "co-perpetrators" in the drug crackdown that took place during the Duterte presidency from 2016 as well as during his earlier stint as Davao City mayor. Among the other co-perpetrators named by the ICC is sitting Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, though there is no known ICC arrest warrant against him. With AFP

ing calls in Congress to declare him persona non grata. The DFA said the embassy’s “escalatory and undiplomatic” language undermined mutual trust and efforts to stabilize bilateral relations. It reserved the right to pursue further diplomatic action while reaffirming its commitment to relations with China. As this developed, Teodoro backed Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela after the latter’s public exchange with former National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos. Teodoro said there should be no room for statements that undermine discussions on Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity. “There are no ifs nor buts anymore when it is Philippine sovereignty and territory that we’re talking about,” Teodoro said. Carlos earlier rebuked Tarriela and advised him to “shut up” and as she branded him a “troublemaker” over his public statements on the maritime dispute with China. Teodoro, however, turned the tables on Carlos. “What can she say about misbehavior of China? Have we heard of any? Admiral Tarriela, for his part, is correct in his position – his point is undeniable,” the Defense chief added.

Ex-BTA... Rimbang as among the suspected masterminds of the failed smuggling attempt but said investigators still needed key documents before filing charges. Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he was satisfied with the progress of the investigation into the suspected shabu shipment. In a video statement, Rimbang said the allegations linking him to the intercepted P3.54-billion drug shipment were false. "Now, it is being alleged that I financed a drug operation in Laos. Where would I even get the money? Why are you linking me to such drug-related activities when I had no part in them? It is not true that I was involved in anything in Laos, nor is it true that I am a financier of drugs," he said in Pilipino. “Please do not associate my presence in Laos. I am a supporter of Duterte. I was appointed by our former president, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, and that is why I served well," Rimbang added. The former lawmaker also denied circulating claims that he had left the country, saying he had no reason to flee because he was not a criminal.

"That is not true. We did not leave. Why would we leave our own country? Do we have a case against us? We have no case against us, and we are not criminals either," Rimbang said. Rimbang previously ran in the 2026 BARMM parliamentary elections to represent the 3rd District of Lanao del Sur under the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Laban. Former president Duterte also appointed him to the Bangsamoro Transition Authority parliament in 2019. The PNP chief said the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) had been working to establish the facts and ensure that those responsible would be held accountable under the law. The CIDG was expected to submit yesterday its investigation report to Nartatez. The investigation involved reviewing CCTV footage, gathering witness testimonies, issuing more than 40 subpoenas, and examining documentary evidence related to the alleged attempt to transport the drugs using a chartered aircraft. Nartatez directed investigators to establish a strong evidentiary basis before filing any charges and ordered the continued pursuit and location of persons of interest who remain unaccounted for. With Vince Lopez and Katrina Manubay

The NBI also obtained a dashboard that showed alleged signs of transnational online fraud or online gaming operations. It also recovered passports during the operation. Staff schedules showed teams assigned to targets in the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates and Bangladesh. The NBI is screening every worker at the site to determine whether there are elements of human trafficking and whether there are victims. "Those found to have been recruited through deception or held against their will will be treated as victims under Republic Act No. 9208, as amended," the bureau said.

The NBI is coordinating with the Bureau of Immigration, the InterAgency Council Against Trafficking and the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam regarding the workers' welfare, documentation and repatriation. The NBI will prepare complaints against those who organized, managed and financed the operation for violations of Republic Act No. 12010 (Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act), Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), Republic Act No. 9160 (Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001), as amended, and Republic Act No. 9208, as amended. “We are working overtime in our fight against scam hubs and transna-

tional online fraud. We will not stop at seizing computers and scripts. We will look into bank accounts, e-wallets, and the people who rent them out,” NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag said. “We are following the money from this facility to every account that carried it. Anyone who lends an account to these operations will answer for it under the law,” he added. The NBI is also working with the Anti-Money Laundering Council and the financial institutions involved to identify and freeze accounts used by the operation. The bureau noted that an investigation into the operators and their links abroad is ongoing.

denies knowing Gracioso and says he did not receive any suitcase full of cash from him,” the lawyer added. In a statement, GMA Network said it has yet to receive a copy of the complaint. “We will review the matter and comment accordingly upon receipt,” the network said. According to Danao, Duterte was seeking P10 million for moral damages and P10 million for exemplary damages. Matibag said the case must push

through, saying “no one is above the law” and will respect the decision from the Office of the City Prosecutor of Davao City—where Duterte personally appeared for his filing of the complaint. “If the prosecution and the court saw that we have a liability, so be it,” Matibag said. He emphasized that he trusts due process, evidence of the case, and the law, adding that truth and justice will prevail. According to Matibag, Duterte

can file a complaint in relation to the NBI’s current investigation on the allegations of dismissed police officer Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. over alleged cash deliveries he made for the Dutertes. He maintained that due process was accorded the congressman when he was invited to the bureau to give statements on Gracioso’s claims. The NBI chief also said the probe on the allegations against Duterte was ongoing and that the bureau will base it on evidence.

By Charles Dantes

EWLY appointed Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Lino Cayetano on Friday confirmed that Undersecretary Claire Castro will remain as Palace Press Officer, expressing confidence in her ability to defend the Marcos administration against criticism.

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considered armed and dangerous,” the DILG chief added. Remulla said PNP Deputy Chief for Administration Lt. Gen. Wilson Lopez will lead the task force created to arrest Dela Rosa. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. gave Dela Rosa a one-week ultimatum to surrender, adding that their search is not limited to Mindanao. “We will continue our operation with or without an ultimatum, with or without reward. The PNP is ready to implement whatever is to be implemented. That is our commitment,” Nartatez said.

Gibo:... From A1

because it will be an act against a military vessel of the Republic of the Philippines,” Teodoro said. "If something happens there due to the use of force, that is an act of war against the Republic of the Philippines already,” the Defense chief added. Teodoro made the statement after the Chinese Commercial News reported that Beijing is considering 10 countermeasures against Manila, including the towing of the vessel. The countermeasures listed include a ban on anti-China politicians entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau and prohibiting Chinese companies and individuals from transacting with these politicians. The Department of Foreign Affairs on Thursday rebuked the Chinese Embassy’s “undiplomatic” social media posts, some of which named antiChina Filipino politicians. The embassy, however, vowed it would not remain silent when China’s interests and dignity were challenged. The exchange followed Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan’s remark that China could “easily win” against the Philippines if it used force, trigger-

NBI... From A1

The NBI-Pampanga District Office carried out the operation by virtue of a Warrant to Search, Seize and Examine Computer Data issued by the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court Branch 73, following a month of surveillance and intelligence work on the facility. According to the NBI, evidence recovered from the site showed that the hub was organized like a business, operating round-the-clock shifts and maintaining a payments desk that handled deposits and withdrawals. Money was moved through a network of banks and e-wallet accounts.

Pulong... From A1

“I did this for my children and my family,” he added. He was accompanied by his legal counsel, lawyer Peter Paul Danao. “This concerns the pre-recorded video they aired on Sept. 25 on GMA News’ 24 Oras, which allegedly showed Gracioso handing over a suitcase full of cash,” Danao pointed out. “Congressman Paolo, for his part,

From A1

Claire Castro

gays and local communities to make government programs more accessible and understandable. He said the administration had spent its initial years fixing government systems and processes, with the benefits of those reforms expected to become more visible in the coming months.

NEWS ‘Filipinos less engaged in VP impeachment’

HEALTHCARE MEETING.

By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay FEWER Filipinos are closely following Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial than followed the proceedings against former president Joseph Estrada and former chief justice Renato Corona, with 42 percent saying they followed the ongoing trial very or somewhat closely, according to a survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS). In the latest poll, 15 percent said they followed the trial very closely and 28 percent somewhat closely. Meanwhile, 21 percent followed it just a little, while 27 percent did not follow it at all. By comparison, 47 percent of Filipino adults followed Estrada’s impeachment trial very or somewhat closely, while 52 percent and 54 percent followed Corona’s trial in March and May 2012, respectively. The survey also found that 38 percent discussed the trial with their families at least sometimes, while 37 percent rarely did and 26 percent never did. With friends, 38 percent discussed the trial at least sometimes, 34 percent rarely did and 27 percent never did. Half of respondents said the trial gave both sides the right amount of consideration, while 18 percent said it was too lenient toward Duterte’s lawyers and 17 percent said it was too lenient toward prosecutors. Regarding the pace of the proceedings, 39 percent said the trial was much too slow, 31 percent said it was moving at the right pace and 22 percent said it was moving too quickly.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. receives recommendations from the Private Sector Advisory CouncilHealthcare Sector to lower healthcare costs for Filipino families, improve access to essential medicines and expand services, particularly in underserved communities.

Expanded healthcare solutions eyed P

By Charles Dantes

RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has received recommendations from private sector health advisers to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses, expand access to essential medicines and improve healthcare services in underserved communities, Malacañang said.

The Private Sector Advisory Council-Healthcare Sector (PSAC-Healthcare) presented the proposals during its 11th meeting with President Marcos at Malacañang Palace on Wednesday, fo-

cusing on measures to make medical treatment more affordable and accessible to Filipino families. A key recommendation is to expand the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.’s

YAKAP and GAMOT programs, which provide primary healthcare services and access to covered outpatient medicines, respectively. As of Oct. 8, YAKAP had registered 22.42 million beneficiaries through 4,677 accredited clinics nationwide, while GAMOT had served 1.28 million beneficiaries through 3,483 participating pharmacies. PSAC-Healthcare said expanding the programs would help more Filipinos, particularly those with chronic illnesses who require regular consultations and maintenance medicines, reduce their medical expenses. “Our goal

MOONLIT CHRISTMAS.

Children pose with Santa Claus, a snowman and reindeer mascots beside a 34-foot Christmas tree, a glowing golden crescent moon and silver reindeer display at SM City Valenzuela during the launch of its ‘Once Upon a Moonlit Christmas’ installation, part of the mall’s ‘SM Magical Sparkle’ campaign. Andrew Rabulan

Diesel prices seen rising by P2 to P2.50 per liter next week By Alena Mae S. Flores CONSUMERS can expect mixed movements in pump prices next week based on initial industry estimates, with diesel expected to rise by P2 to P2.50 per liter. An industry source said gasoline prices may drop by P1 to P1.50 per liter. The projections exclude week-on-week freight adjustments and are based on the first four days of Mean of Platts Singapore prices and foreign exchange

averages. “Oil advanced after intensifying Houthi attacks on Saudi infrastructure and vessel attacks in the Gulf heightened concerns that escalating hostilities could hit supply,” the source said. Crude loadings outside the Arabian Gulf are also threatened, jeopardizing ship-to-ship transfers that have helped support regional supplies. The source added that fears of escalation after the US midterm elections were further fueling market anxiety.

Declining oil flows from the Gulf and escalating Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries have pushed refined product prices higher, particularly diesel. The source said the prospect of additional Russian diesel supplies following the US decision to temporarily waive key Russia-related sanctions and tariffs, along with emergency stock releases, helped moderate prices. However, rising geopolitical risks offset these supply sources and drove prices higher.

ICC urged to probe more testimonies

IN BRIEF Uniformed services back retirement age to 57 UNIFORMED services and government agencies support Sen. Panfilo Lacson’s proposal to raise the mandatory retirement age for Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel from 56 to 57. Lacson, who chaired the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs’ first hearing on the measures, asked the agencies to study concerns about the possible impact on younger officers’ promotions. The National Police Commission said extending retirement for all personnel could stall promotions, while allowing those with less than a year left to retire at 56 would enable younger officers to move up. Senate Bill 2395 raises the retirement age for PNP personnel and allows those with less than a year left in the service when the measure takes effect to retire at 56. Senate Bill 2396 similarly covers BJMP and BFP personnel. The three agencies and Napolcom expressed full support, while the Civil Service Commission said it was generally supportive. Joel E. Zurbano

SC OKs rules supporting social change lawyering THE Supreme Court (SC) has approved the Rules on Institutionalizing Support for Developmental and Social Change Lawyering (DSC Rules), which will provide assistance to organizations of public interest lawyers engaged in legal aid, grassroots lawyering, developmental legal aid, alternative lawyering and public interest lawyering. Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen explained that the rules are anchored on access to justice, which he divided into three versions: thin, thick and thickest. He described the thickest view as a challenge to the Judiciary to understand the lived realities of the people for whom it administers justice. “When we make a decision, it is always looking at policy angles… without actually feeling that. Put a fisher into our place, they will decide differently because they are coming from a different location. That’s the challenge to the Judiciary,” said Leonen, who chairs the Committee on Access to Justice/Underserved Areas. Pot Chavez

Cops nab security officer in wife’s shooting death

By Gwyneth Nicole Nolasco THE prosecution has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III to examine previously recorded testimonies of three witnesses in its third application in the crimes against humanity case against former president Rodrigo Duterte. In a 12-page public redacted filing submitted Wednesday, Acting Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang asked the chamber to admit the testimonies of witnesses P-0008, P-1164 and P-1103 under Article 69(2) and (4) of the Rome Statute, Rule 68(3) of the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, and the directions on the conduct of proceedings. The prosecution also sought permission to conduct focused supplementary examinations of the witnesses in court.

is to make healthcare more affordable and accessible to every Filipino,” said Paolo Borromeo, the council’s healthcare sector lead and vice chairman of Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc. The council also backed PhilHealth’s digital transformation, including planned improvements through the eGovPH application that would allow members to check their benefits, locate healthcare providers and monitor medicine coverage. PhilHealth reported paying P331 billion in claims as of Oct. 10 and projected total payments of P425 billion for the year.

WORLD’S BEST. The ‘Palawan World’s Best Island 2026 Travel and Trade Expo’ opens at the Ayala Activity Center Mall in Cebu on Oct. 23, showcasing Palawan’s tourism offerings and promoting economic partnerships and tourism and trade opportunities between Palawan and the Visayas. Minerva Newman

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday commended local police for swiftly arresting a provincial government security officer who allegedly shot his wife dead outside the Ynares Center in Antipolo City. Nartatez directed police units to build a strong case based on physical evidence, forensic findings and witness accounts. He said the priority was to conduct a thorough investigation, preserve evidence and pursue justice for the victim in accordance with the law. Initial reports showed that the suspect, a member of the Rizal Provincial Government Security Group, allegedly shot his wife multiple times in front of the Ynares Center in Barangay San Roque at around 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22. The victim was rushed to a hospital but later died from her injuries. Vince Lopez

NEWS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

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160 Cebu families to own lot they occupy A By Rio N. Araja

FTER more than 20 years of uncertainty over land tenure security, 160 family-beneficiaries in Cebu City have been awarded certificates of entitlement (COEs), according to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

CHASING OPPORTUNITIES. Jobseekers undergo ground zero interviews at the Manila Mega Job Fair in the San Andres Sports Complex, Malate district. The event brings together job applicants and prospective employers, providing opportunities for a brighter future through gainful employment. Norman Cruz

Housing Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said the beneficiaries belonged to the GMA Ville Lot 110 Housing Project in Barangay Carreta. “In accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., we continue to go down to communities to provide housing services under the Expanded National Housing for Filipinos (4PH) Program,” Aliling said. “Our distribution of COEs will provide security and a more dignified life for our countrymen, especially the urban poor,” he added. Organized by DHSUD in Region 7 in coordination with the National Housing Authority and the Cebu City government, the awarding formally recognized the beneficiaries’ rights to their respective housing lots, marking an important step toward securing a permanent place to call home. Aliling said the initiative reflected the continuing partnership between national government agencies and the local government in advancing housing opportunities and helping Filipino families achieve greater security in their communities through the Expanded 4PH program. The awarding formed part of the observance of National Shelter Month 2026 with the theme “Tahanan. Pamayanan. Kinabukasan,” highlighting the importance of secure housing in building stronger communities and a better future for Filipino families.

IN BRIEF PH attains Tier 1 PAF logs 38 cloud-seeding flights over W. Visayas, NIR THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) has completed 38 cloud-seeding sorties across Western Visayas and the Negros Island Region from Sept. 7 to Oct. 14 to augment rainfall and support agricultural and water needs in the two regions, the military said. Conducted in partnership with the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DABSWM), the operations recorded a reported 100% rainfall success rate, according to the PAF. The joint team logged 52 flying hours and deployed 456 bags of salt as a seeding agent despite varying crop conditions, reduced visibility due to volcanic activity at Mt. Kanlaon, and potential volcanic ash hazards. The PAF said its continued participation in cloud-seeding operations reflects its commitment to supporting food and water security, strengthening climate resilience, and providing assistance through inter-agency cooperation. Rex Espliritu

DepEd vows equitable allocation of infra funds THE Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday said it will employ data-driven standards in its strategy address the shortage of classrooms in the country.. In a statement, DepEd said it remains committed to ensuring infrastructure allocation among basic education institutions across the country is equitable. Education Secretary Sonny Angara said this initiative aims to direct government resources to where students, schools, and staff need them most, especially those experiencing the lack of learning facilities. Angara said the data-driven approach will be integrated into its construction strategy, citing a report from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) which looks into gaps in allocation for local government units (LGUs) with the highest estimated shortages. Gabriel Oliva

status in fight vs. human trafficking By Gwyneth Nolasco

DEPARTMENT of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty announced Thursday that the Philippines received a Tier 1 ranking based on the United States Trafficking in Persons Report. Ty described the designation as “an honor for the country.”. “It took us 11 years to attain Tier 1 status in the country’s fight against human trafficking. This is really a big honor,” Ty said. He noted that 36 of 188 countries, or around 19 percent, received a Tier 1 ranking based on the US State department’s evaluation. The Philippines and Singapore were two of 11 countries in Southeast Asia classified in Tier 1. When it comes to the significance of the Tier 1 status of the Philippines in the existence of localized Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), Ty said the US Department of State report does not look into the problem and that the country does not need to dismantle human trafficking to earn the topmost rank. Tier 1 is given to a country who addresses the problem and meets the minimum standards of the US trafficking laws to fight against human trafficking, Ty explained.. According to him, the Philippines was the first country to restrict scam hubs. This included President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a POGO ban in his State of the Nation Address in 2024 don account of crimes like human trafficking and torture, which are associated with POGO operations. Marcos issued Executive Order No. 74 in November 2024 to impose an immediate ban on offshore and internet gaming, eventually followed by his signing of Republic Act No. 12312 or Ant-POGO Act of 2025 institutionalizing the ban on POGOs.

ACCIDENTAL HERO. A taxi

driver plying the La Trinidad, Benguet-Baguio City route became an overnight hero after he turned over backpack with P100,000 in cold cash to the regional office of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board inadvertently left by his passenger. The honest cabbie, Francisco Echala, 32, drew praises from LTFRB officials and staff for his honesty and humble demeanor. Dave Leproz

Yacob closes Bangsamoro transition government By Nash B. Maulana COTABATO City—Speaker Mohammad Shuaib Yacob has officially closed the Bangsamoro transitional legislature’s seven-year term, a week before elected members of the Regular Parliament will assume office on Oct. 30. In a speech to members of the Bangsamoro Parliament, Yacob said “as the transition draws to a close, I have to report on how well the members of this parliament fulfilled their three mandates in the fields of legislation, representation, and oversight.” Yacob said the transitional assembly of the Bangsamoro Parliament has enacted a total of 94 laws, labelled in the

Asked if he would relinquish the speakership in case his successor has been elected, Yacob said there should be no problem over the majority decision. “In all the time that I led the Parliament, there was no single instance of an overt rift between any and among the Members of Parliament; we work in harmony as members of one parliament,” he said. A seventh measure, the Bangsamoro Revenue Code, will be part of the priority legislative agenda of the incoming regular parliament, regional lawmakers said. In its final year (2026), Yacob said, the Parliament has enacted 13 regional laws; five of which passed within our first hundred days in office.

DOJ to finalize by end-November US plea for Quiboloy’s extradition

PAO marks 54 years of free legal services THE Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) on Friday marked its 54th anniversary, celebrating over half a century of providing free legal assistance to indigent Filipinos since its founding in 1972. The agency took pride of its 54 years of service and remaining steadfast and true to its mandate to provide free legal assistance, representation, and advice to the underserved sector. “Despite trials and triumphs, PAO has served as a beacon of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a shield for the oppressed, ensuring that poverty will never be a barrier to justice,” PAO chief Dr. Persida RuedaAcosta said. Under Acosta’s watch for 25 years, PAO reputedly achieved significant growth and expansion of services. Rio N. Araja

parliament as Bangsamoro Autonomy Acts (BAAs) since March 2019. These included six of seven priority codes under RA 11054, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), namely: the Administrative Code, the Civil Service Code, Education Code, Electoral Code, a Local Governance Code, and an Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act. For Yacob, who was elected last Sept. 14, as party nominee of the United Bangsamoro Justice Party, there was no sad goodby3e as he kept cracking jokes on the lawmakers and their staff, including Secretary-General Raby Angkal, Dr. Jaime Ayub of the Plenary Affairs Committee, Finance director Norhaya Abdul, as well as outgoing MP Obaida Pacasem.

By Gwyneth Nolasco

CAVITE SENIORS FETED. The Cavite provincial government, through the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development, marked Filipino Elderly Week by feting over 100 officers and members of the Provincial Federation of Senior Citizens Association at a prominent diner in Trece Martires City. With the theme ‘Nakatatandang Pilipino: May Halaga at Karapatan, May Boses at Ambag sa Bayan,’ the affair underscored the importance of protecting the rights, promoting the welfare, and recognizing the valuable contributions of senior citizens in society. Dennis Abrina

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday said it aims to finalize before the end of November the United States’ petition for the extradition of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) pastor Apollo Quiboloy. In a press briefing, chief state counsel Dennis Arvin Chan said the DOJ expects that by the end of November 2026, they can give a clearer update regarding the US petition to extradite Quiboloy. Chan said they are nearing the completion of their fact-checking, evaluation and validation of all the documents submitted by Washington. According to Chan, they are validating additional information based

on the relayed request of the U.S. for Quiboloy’s extradition, adding they had to adjust and could not rely on the news or stories since the crime happened in the U.S. and not in the Philippines. “So, we are totally relying on the narration of facts and the evidence submitted by the requesting country, in this case, the United States,” he added. Chan also said the filing of the petition to extradite Quiboloy does not require the permission of the President since there is a Philippine-U.S. extradition treaty, and the Philippines is obligated to abide by it. The same case is applicable for the U.S. if the Philippines is the requesting party.

OPINION

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Honor Blanco Cabie

Plea for the dying tongues TO LOSE a language is not merely to lose words but to witness the quiet collapse, nay the linguistic epistemicide, of a universe. Across the Philippine archipelago, a forgotten catastrophe is unfolding in plain sight. UN Secretary-General António Guterres frequently warns that a language vanishes globally every two weeks, taking with it a priceless repository of traditional knowledge. In the Philippines, this global crisis is an immediate household turmoil. Of the roughly 130 to 180 living languages spoken across our islands, we are cheek by jowl with language advocates and scholars that we are structurally silencing our own people, allowing indigenous and marginalized tongues to slip into the eternal void of history. The loss is gut-wrenching and excruciatingly immediate. Languages are the vessels of our deepest cultural DNA, containing peerless ways of understanding ecology, community, and the sacred. When an indigenous tongue dies, we lose specific names for endemic flora, localized pharmaceutical wisdom, and oral histories that text files can never fully simulate. It is a flat-out ethnocide. Consider Inagta Isarog, a unique Negrito language of Camarines Sur that has tragically crossed the doorsill into extinction, leaving behind an irrevocable silence. dosser for a monolingual monotony. This is not a natural disaster; it is a systemic failure. An analytical look at our educational and digital landscapes reveals deep structural discrimination. Data from the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino reveals that at least 40 indigenous languages in the Philippines are now actively endangered – with eight classified as critically endangered and 15 as severely endangered. Instance, the Árta language of Quirino is levitating on the absolute brink of extinction, sustained by a fragile group of roughly 10 native speakers, exclusively among older generations. Despite the institutional intent of the Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education policy, chronic underfunbdinb, a lack of localized learning materials, and a cultural obsession with hyper-glo-

balization have left regional languages marginalized. UNESCO data reveals that over 40 percent of the global population lacks access to education in a language they speak or understand. In the Philippines, this manifests as a digital and academic divide where speaking a native tongue is treated as a socioeconomic disadvantage rather than a profound cultural asset. This status quo demands fiery, unrelenting indignation. We cannot claim to celebrate Filipino identity while actively presiding over the social linguistic isolation of our minorities.

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We cannot claim to celebrate Filipino identity while actively presiding over the social linguistic isolation of our minorities It is an act of chronological double standard to fund tourism campaigns boasting of our diverse heritage while leaving the creators of that heritage tongue-tied in their own ancestral lands. Language preservation cannot be treated as a passive museum project or a niche academic hobby. It requires assertive legislative teeth, institutional funding, and digital empowerment. We are currently within the UN’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032). This cannot be a decade of void resolutions and performative hand-wringing opr theater of concern. The state must urgently motivate the digitization of marginalized tongues, aggressively reform classroom implementation, and dismantle the colonial mindset that equates English or dominant regional languages with superior intelligence. A nation that forgets its mother tongues breaks its anchor to the past and blinds its vision for the future. We must choose to listen, to fund, and to protect. Let us dogmatize our policy and revitalize our speech before the ultimate silence settles over the archipelago.

‘Real damage’ of US-Canada spat dominates campaign in vital swing state PORT HURON, United States – Retired cop Micky Roe sat in his Chevrolet pick-up on the US side of the St. Clair River, watching the Canadian flag flutter on the opposite bank, shaded by the imposing Blue Water Bridge linking the neighboring countries. Before November’s midterm elections, President Donald Trump imposed 50 percent tariffs on a portion of the $880 billion annual US-Canada trade, disproportionately impacting Michigan border towns like Port Huron on the US side of the span. “It should not be that way, cause we were friends before, real good friends and they should stay that way,” said Roe, 83, whose father was Canadian. As 18-wheelers rumbled over the bridge, Roe speculated that Trump was profiting financially from the tariff campaign against Canada. Every year, over 1.5 million trucks traverse Blue Water Bridge, accounting for $42.2 billion in road trade, according to Canadian officials, with volumes expected to be down in the wake of the trade war. Trump, who alleges Canada discriminates against US commerce, has openly derided Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for imposing retaliatory tariffs, calling him “nasty” and “ungrateful.” Washington’s embassy in Canada even claimed Wednesday that the measures amounted to an effort to influence the midterms. In the riverfront parking lot facing Canada, another driver who declined to be named said he supported Trump’s clampdown. “They’ve been taking advantage of us,” said the keen Trump supporter from the driver’s seat of his truck before accusing the Canadian side of failing to properly fly the US flag at its border

control area. ‘Our sister country’ St. Clair County, home to Port Huron, voted for Trump by more than 34 points in 2024. But local anger at Trump’s measures has made the region fertile ground for Democratic candidates seeking to woo disaffected Republicans in November 3 midterm elections widely seen as a referendum on the president. Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate for a must-win US Senate seat, managed to draw a crowd of more than 1,000 people at a recent campaign event in Port Huron, a town of just under 30,000 residents.

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Beyond the war of words between Trump and Canadian leaders, tariffs are hammering Michigan’s allimportant automotive sector He told the gathering that living costs were being driven up by “this insane tariff war that we have no business fighting with our neighbors in Canada.” “I mean, look, if you want to tariff the hell out of Ohio, go ahead,” he said of Michigan’s perennial rival to laughter from the crowd. “But not Canada.” Attendee Patti Lossing, 65, a retired homemaker, said “income and the economy (are) what hit Michigan.” ‘Not stupid’ “Between arguing with Canada, our sister country, and the prices that we are paying, Americans are not silly, they’re

Sovereignty, discourse, and the ethics of hegemony

HE contemporary geopolitical landscape demands a strict compliance to the highest standards of international propriety, particularly within the fragile framework of bilateral relations. Recent public pronouncements emanating from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Manila – characterized by an inflammatory challenge to Philippine legislators regarding the potential issuance of a persona non grata declaration against Ambassador Jing Quan and his public diplomacy team – have introduced an grating animosity into regional diplomacy. While observing the constitutional deliberations of their elected officials, the Filipino public grows progressively distressing that foreign envoys who, by right of the Vienna Convention, enjoy the traditional hospitality and protection of their host country, have adopted a discursive persona that violates diplomatic courtesies. This escalating friction cannot be disconnected from the dangerous maritime realities in the West Philippine Sea. The systematic harassment of Filipino fisherfolk within their ancestral maritime domain by larger Chinese vessels represents a grim, physical contradiction to the principles of mu-

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True diplomacy requires an earnest commitment to structured dialogue and an unyielding respect for the territorial integrity of host states On that global stage, the Chinese leadership explicitly renounced hegemony, affirming that a socialist nation must never act as a superpower or subject sovereign neighbors to arm-twisting. Deng Xiaoping famously pledged

NAPA, California – Napa Valley rocketed to international fame when its vintages shocked French rivals in a high-profile blind tasting contest that instantly turned the California corner into a wine-lovers’ destination. Now, Donald Trump’s unpredictable tariff policies and attacks on traditional allies are souring the area’s relationship with the foreign tourists and international markets it has grown to depend on. “Napa Valley is proudly one of the most global, if not the most global destination in the United States for wine,” Linsey Gallagher, president of Visit Napa Valley, an organization representing the region’s hotel industry, told AFP. “But at the moment that piece of the business is a little bit challenged.” Napa announced itself to the global wine-drinking public in dramatic fashion in 1976, when two of its vintages, a red and a white, won the Judgment of Paris, a blind tasting judged by nine experts, most of them French. “Napa did not have any publicity, and then all of a sudden, the few journalists wrote articles, and Napa became a buzzing place,” said Ivo Jeramaz, whose uncle, Mike Grgich, made the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that was named best white at the competition. “The wealthy clients started coming, money started pouring in.” The region boomed, said Jeramaz, who now runs Grgich Hills Estate, and spends hours talking with visitors who come to taste his wines. But the excitement of the last few decades has cooled, he said, a situation exacerbated by tariffs that the US president has imposed on countries that buy California wine. “Nobody is benefiting from tariffs,”

In response, some Canadian provinces have pulled US goods from their shelves and tourists who would otherwise have headed south have voted with their feet and stayed home. “It’s a big, big hit,” said Jeramaz. International component About 20 percent of visitors to the region used to come from abroad, drawn by a Mediterranean-style climate, tranquil vineyards and lively towns full of restaurants and fashionable shops. That share has fallen to eight percent. “The biggest impact for us comes from the decline in Canadian visitors,” said Gallagher. In an effort to fill the gap, businesses have focused their advertising efforts on the domestic market.

The strategy appears to be working for now. Last year the valley welcomed around 3.8 million people, up three percent from pre-pandemic tourism levels. “But we’re only going to be able to extract so much out of that domestic and local market. We won’t fully recover until that international piece comes back,” Gallagher warned. Wellness, Napa-style Changing consumption habits among younger generations are also weighing on Napa Valley, where more than 1,000 vineyards line a nearly 37mile (60-kilometer) stretch traversed by a tourist train. Winemakers are trying to understand and adapt to these new customers who care more about environmental and social justice practices than about brands. “When we get our wines in front of younger consumers and tell them the story of how they’re made, how the grapes are grown, that it is a living, breathing, beautiful agricultural product, they’re excited to discover something new,” said Ali van Zyl, owner of the Belong Wine Company label. Another way to draw visitors is to highlight the valley’s natural attractions and its food and hotel offerings. Tourism managers hope it could reposition Napa as a destination for people seeking a healthy lifestyle. “Sharing a bottle of wine is a lot different than taking a bunch of tequila shots,” said Laura Gabriel, van Zyl’s partner in the River Club tasting house. “It is a natural product and it’s a part of well-lived life, with hiking and being outdoors and cooking,” said Gabriel. “That’s the Napa form of wellness.” AFP

not stupid,” she continued. “They see it every day when they go to the grocery store, when they go to pick up a prescription.” Beyond the war of words between Trump and Canadian leaders, tariffs are hammering Michigan’s all-important automotive sector. “These are very intertwined, interconnected, interdependent supply chains,” said Glenn Stevens, chief automotive officer at the Detroit Regional Chamber. “They’re friends first, they’re business partners as well. So it’s put a lot of strain on these relationships, and it’s put

a lot of strain on the companies financially because tariffs are an increase in input costs, so the cost of doing business has gone up.” Cars from the US accounted for 28.4 percent of new-vehicle sales in Canada in the first half of the year, down from 35.4 percent a year earlier, according to JD Power Canada, which blamed tariffs for the dip. Republican US Representative Lisa McClain recently hinted on local radio that Trump might visit the Port Huron area to support El-Sayed’s rival, Republican Mike Rogers, although nothing is confirmed.

Rogers, who is seen as close to Trump and won the president’s endorsement in the tight senate race, has distanced himself from the president’s trade measures. “We’ve got to end the Canadian tariff war. It is certainly not helpful to us. It is not helpful to our automobile industry,” Rogers said recently. “But there are tariffs that have helped,” he said, subsequently claiming in a FOX News interview that some Michigan manufacturers had added shifts at their factories because of increasing demand for products made in the US. AFP

said Jeramaz, who blames them for raising production costs and hurting exports. “We were selling over 1,000 cases, which is for us a good amount of wine, to Canada, and now we have zero since tariffs. So it’s a big problem.” Ottawa and Washington are locked in a deep trade dispute, exacerbated by Trump’s frequent insults and claims that Canada will be taken over as a 51st US state.

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Ottawa and Washington are locked in a deep trade dispute, exacerbated by Trump’s frequent insults and claims that Canada will be taken over as a 51st US state

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser

Emil P. Jurado+ Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

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MEMBER

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Napa Valley’s wineries feel Trump’s tariff squeeze

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

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tual respect and detente. These emphatice maneuvers run directly counter to the groundbreaking declaration made by Vice Premier Deng Xiaoping before the United Nations General Assembly on April 10, 1974.

that if China should ever alter its nature, turn into a superpower, and play the tyrant in the world, the international community should join hands to expose and oppose it. The current crisis, wherein the Chinese Embassy labeled legislative apprehensions as mere smoke and mirrors and impudently urged lawmakers to stop bluffing, presents a formidable obstacle to the constitutional independence of the Philippine state. While the executive branch under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. retains the sole authority to formalize the expulsion of foreign diplomats – and has discreetly sought to manage tensions to protect citizens abroad – the fierce counter-reactions from leadership across the Senate and House of Representatives reflect a unified national defense of sovereignty. Declarations by foreign missions that diminish the legal duties of lawmakers or accuse the domestic free press of limited comprehension are flawed, if indefensible. True diplomacy requires an earnest commitment to structured dialogue and an unyielding respect for the territorial integrity of host states, rather than the deployment of threatening language that erodes the very mechanism for mutual goodwill.

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WORLD

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF UAE reports oil spill from tanker DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates reported an oil spill from a tanker off its coast on Friday, as numerous vessels in Gulf waters come under attack during the Middle East war. The authorities “detected a tanker oil spill affecting Umm Al Quwain’s beaches,” the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said in a statement, referring to an emirate north of Dubai. It said “teams immediately began containment, cordoning, clean-up and remediation... to limit environmental impacts”, adding that the emirate’s beaches had been closed. Many residents in the north of the country have reported oil smells on social media in recent days, including residents in northern districts of Dubai. Frequent attacks on ships have been reported in recent weeks near the Strait of Hormuz, at the heart of the conflict between Iran and the United States. AFP

Indonesia seizes 1.1 tons of ketamine MEDAN, Indonesia – Indonesian authorities have seized 1.1 tons of ketamine from a foreign vessel in Sumatran waters, the Southeast Asian nation’s second major drug bust in two months, a police official said Friday. Ketamine functions primarily as a fastacting anaesthetic but is widely abused as an illicit party drug. Its distribution is tightly controlled and monitored in Indonesia. The intelligence community began tracking the MT Global 168 tanker, sailing from Thailand through the Andaman Sea, in August after receiving information it may be engaged in suspicious activities, national police chief Suyudi Ario Seto told reporters in the city of Medan. The vessel flew the Mongolian flag but is owned by a company based in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, Suyudi said. On Tuesday, police and customs officers intercepted the vessel in the Strait of Malacca as it was heading toward Port Klang, Malaysia, and brought it to Belawan Port in North Sumatra for inspection. AFP

EXTREMELY HEAVY RAIN. Waves crash against concrete wave breakers along the coast as Typhoon Champi approaches Taiwan, in Keelung on Friday. The storm was briefly a super typhoon as it crossed the ocean, but has been weakening as it approaches Taiwan and now has maximum sustained wind speeds of 167 kilometers per hour, according to the latest update from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. AFP

Taiwan folds as Champi nears; 1,200 people flee from homes T

AIPEI – Most shops and schools were shut across Taiwan on Friday as Typhoon Champi neared the island, forcing hundreds of people to leave their homes ahead of the powerful storm.

New York bans Central Park carriages NEW YORK – New York’s city council on Thursday voted to ban horse-drawn carriages in Central Park, signaling the end of a tourist ritual that’s been subject to years of heated debate. Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who must sign the measure into law, had previously voiced support for such a ban but has also expressed concerns regarding protections for workers in the industry. If the mayor signs it, the ban will go into effect in June of 2028. The lead-up is meant to help the approximately 150 active carriage drives find new employment, city council speaker Julie Menin told journalists ahead of the vote. The Transport Workers Union representing those laborers have vowed court action. Legislative battles over the fate of the cultural tradition that’s nearly as old as Central Park itself have been ongoing for nearly two decades. AFP

GRAVE SITUATION. South Korean soldiers patrol along a military fence on the south side of the Demilitarised Zone dividing the two Koreas, as seen from a South Korean observatory in the border city of Paju on Oct. 20, 2026. South Korea proposed on Friday military talks with North Korea to ‘mutually confirm the precise location’ of their border and discuss restoring communication channels, after an explosion in the DMZ further strained relations. AFP

SoKor proposes holding border talks with North China orders ‘all-out’ rescue, quake kills 16 BEIJING – China ordered an “all-out” rescue effort in Tibet on Friday after an earthquake killed at least 16 people, injured dozens and flattened hundreds of homes, state media reported. Footage showed rescue workers with torches clambering in the dark through some of the more than 300 houses that Xinhua said collapsed in the 7.0-magnitude quake on Thursday evening. Diners ran out of restaurants and items fell off wobbling supermarket shelves as the tremor struck, according to clips on state broadcaster CCTV, which said 65 people were injured. One resident told local media that her family had just gone to bed when her home shook, knocking over objects, and that they “rushed outside without even taking the time to get dressed.” “My legs were shaking the entire time I was heading downstairs and by the time I reached the bottom, I was so terrified that I burst into tears,” the woman said. Local residents “are afraid to return to their homes,” she said. “They set up tents along the roadside or spent the night in their cars.” A man told the Beijing News that the “very strong” quake left his home “creaking and rattling”. “I was asleep when it hit. Everyone has run outside now and is too afraid to go back in. I’m currently driving to an open area to sleep in my car,” he said. Broadcaster CCTV also showed emergency personnel with helmets carrying a person and shining flashlights on damaged buildings, some with collapsed roofs. Tibet is largely inaccessible to foreign journalists and Chinese authorities are the only source of official information. AFP

SEOUL – South Korea proposed on Friday military talks with North Korea to “mutually confirm the precise location” of their border and discuss restoring communication channels, after an explosion in the DMZ further strained relations. Tensions between the two Koreas have soared since the South last month blamed the blast inside the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the countries on landmines laid by the North, an accusation it has fiercely rejected. The South Korean defence ministry “formally proposes holding military talks with North Korea to mutually confirm the precise location of the land Military Demarcation Line (MDL) and discuss ways to restore military communication lines and prevent ac-

cidental clashes in border areas,” Kim Hong-cheol, deputy defense minister for policy, told reporters Friday. The proposal comes just days after Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korea’s leader, announced that Pyongyang had moved new troop units into “firing position” along the border. Seoul’s defence ministry said Friday it was difficult to predict “what further incidents could occur if this situation is allowed to continue unaddressed”. The ministry said that “three-way talks involving the United Nations Command would also be possible”. “Specific dates and locations could be discussed through Panmunjom,” said Kim, referencing the symbolic truce village where troops from both Koreas stand face-to-face.

He added they hoped for “a positive response from North Korea”. The South Korean defense ministry also noted that talks proposed last year with the North did not get a response from Pyongyang. Seoul’s military on Tuesday accused Pyongyang of attempting to shift the blame for escalating military tensions, while confirming the use of loudspeakers and warning shots as “legitimate defensive measures to prevent North Korean troops from crossing the MDL and to drive back troops that have crossed it”. Jin Yong-sung, chairman of South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, also ordered the military to “respond with firm resolve” should North Korea use Seoul’s actions as a pretext for aggressive action. AFP

The typhoon is expected to sweep past Taiwan’s northeast as it moves towards China and Japan, triggering the cancellation of hundreds of flights in the region. At least one person has been killed in Taiwan after being swept away by waves whipped up by the typhoon, authorities said. Dozens of others have been injured. Champi is the latest in a busy Pacific storm season turbo-charged by the El Nino weather phenomenon that has caused unprecedented warming in the equatorial Pacific. The storm was briefly a super typhoon as it crossed the ocean, but has been weakening as it approaches Taiwan and now has maximum sustained wind speeds of 167 kilometers per hour, according to the latest update from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. Heavy rain, strong winds and giant waves are forecast for Friday and Saturday, and thousands of military personnel are on standby to assist with rescue efforts. More than 1,200 people had been evacuated from their homes ahead of Champi. “As it approaches Taiwan’s northeastern tip... the typhoon may slow down. If it slows down, its impact will last longer,” the Central Weather Administration’s Lu Kuo-chen told a briefing. In Japan, several local events in the southern Okinawa prefecture have been cancelled. There has been no change to the ongoing Japan-US joint military exercise, Keen Sword, being held in various parts of Japan, but a Japanese military spokeswoman has said they will be “flexible” in implementing the drill. Professional storm-chaser James Reynolds posted a video on X from Ishigaki showing a “fierce storm tide” in a channel leading to the island’s harbour as Champi’s strong winds whipped across the water. “I’m seeing the ocean do things I’ve not seen in 20 years of doing this!!” Reynolds said in the post. Champi is expected to dump up to 90 centimetres (35 inches) of rain from Thursday to Saturday, with northeastern Taiwan to be hardest hit, the forecaster said. AFP

European, ME foreign ministers hold talks in Istanbul, Turkey

HAMAS PRAISES ATTACK. Israeli border guards gather at the scene of an earlier fire exchange between armed Palestinians and Israeli forces at the northern checkpoint of Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Friday. Israeli troops shot dead two suspected Palestinian assailants in the West Bank after a shooting that left at least five people wounded, officials said. AFP

ISTANBUL – Foreign ministers from eight European and Middle Eastern countries are set to meet in Istanbul on Friday in an unprecedented format for talks on the Strait of Hormuz and crises across the Middle East. Ministers from Britain, France and Germany -- the so-called E3 -- as well as Italy will meet counterparts from the newly created R4 group comprising Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Egypt to discuss the Palestinians, developments in Yemen and Hormuz, and ways to end the Russia-Ukraine war, a Turkish foreign ministry source said. British foreign minister Ed Miliband’s office said the talks would essentially revolve around “the Strait of Hormuz and the situation in Saudi Arabia”. It said Miliband “will advocate for a

diplomatic solution to the (Hormuz) crisis that restores full navigational rights and freedoms”. He will also stress “how Iranian tactics are being replicated across the region, with attacks on Saudi Arabia further destabilising the region and increasing pressure on vital waterways and global chokepoints, such as Bab El-Mandeb and the Suez Canal”, it added. France confirmed the talks on “the Iranian crisis in its various ramifications”, hailing it as a first “in this format... against a backdrop of extreme instability and uncertainty in the region.” The meeting will aim to “strengthen coordination between Europeans and Middle Eastern countries in the face of crises that we did not choose and that affect us all,” the French foreign ministry said. AFP

SPORTS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

Trump slams LeBron for ‘disrespecting’ national anthem

Milwaukee Brewers owner Mark Attanasio is presented with the Warren C. Giles Trophy after his team defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 4 of WASHINGTON—US President the National Donald Trump lashed out at NBA superstar LeBron League James on ThursChampionship day for what he called disrespectful Series at of the behavior during the playing national anthem. Dodger Trump posted a Stadium video ofinthe basketball legend doing apparent Los Angeles,warmup movements while lined up California. AFPwith

Brazil’s Yago Dora, the current World No. 1, and Australia’s top-ranked sensation Molly Picklum, are some of the elite surfers to watch out for in the World Surf League (WSL) Philippines Pro Championship Tour.

IARGAO—History crashes onto the shores of this surfing paradise from October 30 to November 8 as the world’s ultimate waveriders storm the legendary barrels of Cloud 9.

World’s elite surfers brace for historic WSL in Siargao

For the first time ever, the country plays host to the World Surf League (WSL) Philippines Pro Championship Tour—surfing’s crown-jewel spectacle—bringing the sport’s most formidable global elite straight into local waters. At the center of this celebrated gathering presented by the Philippine Sports Commission is a lineup of world-class athletes, each bringing a distinct brand of brilliance to Siargao’s unforgiving reef break. Leading the men’s division is Brazil’s Yago Dora, the current World No. 1, who arrives in the Philippines with a target firmly on his back. Celebrated for his seamless blend of high-flying aerial maneuvers and razor-sharp rail work, Dora views heavy, world-class reef breaks like Cloud 9 as the ultimate canvas to

prove his consistency under highstakes pressure. Joining him from the famed Brazilian Storm are former World Champions Gabriel Medina and Italo Ferreira, two of the sport’s most explosive icons. “This will be a historic moment for Philippine surfing and the CT will usher the sport into a new era. Let it inspire a new generation of athletes. Let the world discover not just our waves, but the vision, ambition, and heart of the Filipino people,’’ said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio. The country’s hosting of this global surfing spectacle was made possible through the united efforts of key national agencies with the PSC and PAGCOR—the Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Tourism and

Events Infrastructure and Safety Administration (TIEZA), and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) in partnership with SIARELCO. Equally vital was the steadfast support of local leadership. Surigao del Norte Governor Lyndon Barbers, General Luna Mayor Johnson Sajulga, and Vice Mayor Doc Minmin Sajulga stood at the forefront of preparations, guiding every step with vision and commitment. Adding even more firepower to the Brazilian contingency are Filipe Toledo and Miguel Pupo with the international men’s field being further elevated by global superstars across the map. Italy’s Leonardo Fioravanti brings technical tube-riding prowess and European precision to the lineup, while Japan’s Olympic medalist Kanoa Igarashi leverages his tactical sharpness

and blinding speed in hollow waves. Also helping turn the CT into a world-class event were key partners, including the DILG, DBM, CAAP, DOTr, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Airlines, TCP, and SDMI. Completing the high-caliber men’s roster is American standout Tyler Wright, who brings immense star power, veteran composure, and elite wave-reading abilities to the competition. The women’s field is every bit as formidable, promising an unforgettable display of speed, commitment, and artistic precision. Australia’s top-ranked sensation Molly Picklum leads the charge, widely recognized across the globe for her aggressive, completely fearless approach when taking on heavy slab conditions and hollow barrels.

PH U15 squad kicks off FIFA World Cup campaign THE Philippine Under-15 Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT U15) steps onto the Hovsan Competition Complex in Baku, Azerbaijan, to open their campaign against Morocco in the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival on Saturday. The roster showcases a wide talent pool spanning from Luzon and the Visayas to North America and Europe with Jordan Tan of Makati FC and Keanefred Cristiane Versales of De La Salle-Zobel guiding the backline in goal. The defensive wall features Paolo Enrique Fernandez of PAREF Southridge, Juan Carlo Felipe Morales representing FA Manila and Panabo, Davao del Norte, Frank Jonas Oliverio of Makati FC and Negros Occidental, and Matthew Zamora of Arayat FC. “Representing the Philippines at the first FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival is a milestone for these young players and for our youth program,” said Philippine Football Federation President John Anthony Gutierrez. This historic opening match marks a monumental milestone for Philippine

Shown are the players (top, from left) Jonas Oliverio, Enrique Fernandez, Jordan Tan, Keanefred Versales, Matthew Zamora, Carlo Rendon, Juan Carlo Morales, (bottom, from left) Zhian Enario, Josef Peña, Nathan Caligdong, Micah Alva and Dan Becera.

football, as the young squad represents the nation on the global stage in FIFA’s new fast-paced 8v8 tournament format. “We chose a squad that combines players from our domestic clubs, schools, and regional football associations with Filipinos based abroad. We

are proud of all of them, and we ask Filipino fans to support them,” said Gutierrez. Led by head coach Roxy Dorlas, a former national team player and PMNFT U16 head coach, the team brings together homegrown prospects along-

side players based in the United States and Spain. In the midfield, dynamic playmaking duties belong to Micah Alva from Philadelphia, USA, Nathan Caligdong from the football stronghold of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, John Zhian Enario of FA Manila, Quito Alexander Pascual from the LA Galaxy Academy in the USA, and John Carlo Rendon representing Makati FC and Negros Occidental. Spearheading the attack are forwards Satriani Alcantara, who plays out of Barcelona, Spain, alongside Cavite products Dan Emmanuel Becera of Trece FC and Josef Adrien Peña of La Salle-Dasmariñas. To meet FIFA’s mandate of fielding a tight-knit 14-player roster, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) assembled a squad that mirrors both the depth of domestic grassroots programs and the far-reaching extent of the global Filipino diaspora. Saturday’s clash against Morocco will be the first of five demanding Group F matches for the Philippines in Baku, setting the stage for a landmark week in Philippine youth sports.

Mondilla delivers in the clutch for 2-shot win at South Pacific DAVAO CITY – Clyde Mondilla weathered a blistering charge from a slew of pursuers and delivered a master class in clutch shot-making under pressure, producing a classy finish to capture the ICTSI South Pacific Classic crown Friday at the South Pacific Golf Club. With his lead under siege and the leaderboard in constant flux, the Del Monte ace regained control with a near-ace on No. 15 and a clutch birdie putt from long range on the 17th to move two shots clear of Sean Ramos with one hole to play. He could even afford to miss a four-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole, drawing gasps from the gallery, and still emerge with a twostroke victory. Mondilla closed with a two-under 70 for an 18-under 270 total, holding off Ramos, who mounted a determined comeback before wavering late with a 69 for 272. Angelo Que and Keanu Jahns,

meanwhile, made stirring bids that kept the pressure on the leader until the closing holes. The final margin, however, hardly reflected the tension and turbulence of the closing stretch, when five players were separated by just two strokes and every shot threatened to change the outcome. The pressure was mounting after 10 holes as Ramos pulled ahead on a clutch two-shot swing on the 10th. But Mondilla refused to lose his composure. A timely reset helped him regain his rhythm, with his putter finally coming alive as he pulled away in the closing stretch. “Sean was gaining strokes on me, so the pressure was really intense. But after No. 10, I settled down, regained my momentum and started sinking my putts,” said Mondilla in Filipino, who pocketed the top purse of P448,750. Despite the mounting pressure, Mondilla remained confident in his

Clyde Mondilla hoists his trophy. Manny Marcelo

chances, trusting his game and his ability to deliver when it mattered most. “I always believed I had a good chance of winning this week, and thankfully, things worked out in my favor,” he said. Still, it was not until he drained a lengthy putt on the 17th that Mondilla felt the victory was finally within

reach. He celebrated the clutch shot with a triumphant roar and a fist pump, a fitting release after a tense battle down the stretch. His confidence had already received a boost on No. 15, where he narrowly missed an ace. The nearhole-in-one fueled his momentum heading into the decisive penultimate hole.

his Philadelphia 76ers teammates before their season opener against the New York Knicks on Tuesday. “While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social network. “LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for!” he wrote. The video used by Trump had an internal caption that read: “LeBron working on his golf swing pregame.” It showed him doing lateral swing motions and basketball shooting movements. Trump, speaking at a campaign rally in Iowa on Thursday night, renewed the attack, calling James’s actions “a big scandal kind of a story.” Trump and James have traded barbs before, and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer shrugged off the president’s latest criticism. “It must be a slow news day at the office,” he said after the Sixers completed an epic comeback to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-106 in Philadelphia. “Slow news day at the office.” James, 41, is entering a recordextending 24th NBA season with his fourth team. Sixers coach Nick Nurse said Trump’s comments were the kind of distractions he was schooling his team to tune out. “I think that goes right in with other outside noise we’ve already had,” Nurse said. “I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor. AFP

Cool Smashers target lead share vs. Thunderbelles CREAMLINE guns for a third straight victory and a share of the lead, while Capital1 and PLDT seek to break troubling patterns as the PVL All-Filipino Conference resumes Saturday at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan City. The Cool Smashers take on winless ZUS Coffee at 6 p.m., looking to sustain their strong start and keep pace with the unbeaten Nxled Chameleons, while the Solar Spikers and the High Speed Hitters collide at 1 p.m. in a matchup loaded with pressure, pride and the need to build momentum in the early going of the Siklab Series. Meanwhile, Clearskiin shoots for a third straight win against winless VNS in the Spikers’ Turf encounter at 3:30 p.m. With the conference marking the league’s 10th season, every match carries added weight under the singleround elimination format, which leaves little room for costly missteps in the race to the semifinals. Creamline returns to action after an extended break following victories over Akari and Galeries Tower. The Cool Smashers will look to pick up where they left off, relying on their depth, experience and balanced attack to extend their unbeaten run. Anchored by Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos, Michele Gumabao, Bernadette Pons and Alyssa Valdez, Creamline boasts a battle-tested lineup capable of dictating the tempo and delivering in pressure situations. With a deep bench at its disposal, the squad has the personnel to maintain its intensity through crucial rotations. But the Cool Smashers cannot afford to take the Thunderbelles lightly. “Syempre, good problem din sa’min ’yung mga national team namin, bumalik na. Kailangan na magtrabaho talaga. ’Yun ’yung blessing sa’min. Kahit good problem, talagang sa practice, napakacompetitive nila kaya medyo minsan lang naman mahirap. Mga six times six days a week, gano’n kahirap, gano’n kadali pala,” said Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses.

SPORTS King James delivers on promise Bulldogs try to sustain surge to bounce back in Para Games against Falcons

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

By Randy Caluag Games Saturday (Blue Eagle Gym) 8 a.m. – Ateneo vs UST (16U Boys) 10 a.m. – FEU vs AdU (Women) 12 noon – DLSU vs NU (Women) 2:30 p.m. – FEU vs Ateneo (Men) 6 p.m. – NU vs AdU (Men)

NATIONAL University seeks to sustain its impressive first-round performance when it faces Adamson University today (Saturday) in the UAAP Season 89 collegiate men’s basketball tournament at the Blue Eagle Gym. Determined to bounce back from last season’s disappointment of missing the Finals despite topping the elimination round, NU head coach Jeff Napa wants his players to stay true to their identity as they enter the second round. “Siyempre, ‘yung resilience pa rin. ‘Yung grit and grind namin, nandoon pa rin. ‘Yung identity talaga namin, hindi mawawala ‘yun. Kailangan lang namin ma-emphasize namin as coaches,” Napa said after the Bulldogs finished the first round atop the standings with a 5-2 record. NU hopes to replicate its 85-66 rout of the Falcons last October 7 and gain a share of first place when the two teams meet at 6 p.m. Far Eastern University and Ateneo de Manila University, meanwhile, look to recover from late first-round struggles when they collide in the 2:30 p.m. opener. PJ Palacielo, who has emerged as a leader of NU’s young squad, recognizes the challenge ahead as the competition intensifies in the second round, with teams having had ample time to scout their opponents. “Hindi porket kami ‘yung nagtatake charge, balewala lang mga rookie namin, mga bench namin. Lagi naming nare-remind sila na kailangan namin sila, kumbaga, 16-man, kailangan lahat tayo ready kapag binunot kayo. Kasi di naman all the time maganda lalaruin namin, mga primary na ginagamit sa rotation,” Palacielo said.

AGOYA— King James Reyes delivered on Philippine paraathletics’ promise to bounce back, claiming the team’s first medal at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games with a personal-best bronze in the men’s 1,500-meter T46 on Friday.

The 24-year-old clocked four minutes and 13.81 seconds to secure a podium finish a day after a ruling reversal cost teammate Cyril Cloyd Ongcoy his bronze-medal position in the men’s 1,500-meter T12/T13. With that disappointment still fresh, Reyes took it upon himself to give the team a lift. “Wala namang nagsabi sa akin na ako na lang ‘yung pag-asa, pero sa isip ko, kailangan kong bumawi para sa team po,” Reyes said. Sri Lanka’s Puwakpitikande P. Wahumpurage captured gold in 4:03.25, while India’s Parmod took silver in 4:09.65. Aware of his opponents’ faster times, Reyes resisted the temptation to chase the leaders too aggressively, conserving enough strength to protect his place on the podium.

King James Reyes

Silver medal forged in trust for Manginsay, Redulla

San Juan tackles Caloocan in semis THE San Juan-Caloocan encounter shares the spotlight with the Abra-Pasay tussle on Saturday, kicking off the North Division semifinal playoffs of the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig. While the defending champion Abra Solid North Weavers are favored over the Pasay Voyagers in the nightcap at 7, the 5 p.m. game between the San Juan Knights and the Caloocan Batang Kankaloo is considered a toss-up. The second-seeded Knights, who swept the Bataan Risers (2-0) in the quarterfinals, bank on Orlan Wamar, Patrick Sleat, James Kwekuteye, Dexter Maiquez, Mike Calisaan, and former University of the Philippines standouts Harold Alarcon, Reyland Torres and Terrence Fortea. The third-seeded Batang Kankaloo, 2-0 quarterfinals conqueror of the Ilagan Isabela Cowboys, counts on Kean Baclaan, Jeff Manday, Chris Bitoon, Rob Celiz, Eric Camson, Dom Escobar, and the 6-foot-8 Kymani Ladi, who poses matchup problems sans former San Juan counterpart Mike Philipps.. San Juan beat Caloocan, 68-60, in the round-robin elimination round of the two-division, 26-team tournament. With a deep and talented roster, Abra topped the eliminations, including a 6851 drubbing of Pasay, and swept Quezon City, 2-0, in the playoffs.

Caloocan’s Kymani Ladi

“Malayo talaga siya. Baka maubos pa ako. Kaya sinecure ko na lang talaga ‘yung makapag-podium,” said the fourth-year Sports Science student at Adamson University. Reyes improved from his sixthplace finish in his Asian Para Games debut in China. His breakthrough came a day after the heartbreaking reversal that cost Cyril Cloyd Ongcoy bronze in the men’s 1,500-meter T12/T13. A jury reinstated Uzbekistan’s initially disqualified Fakhriddin Khamraev as the gold medalist, relegating Ongcoy to fourth. Heading into the final day, the Philippine delegation, backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, stood 17th overall with two golds, two silvers and two bronzes. Evaristo Carbonel and Edwin Enguito Jr. also gave their all but fell short in their medal bids. Carbonel posted a personal best of 27.18 meters in the men’s discus throw F11 but finished fifth in the five-man field, while Enguito placed fourth in the men’s high jump T63 with a clearance of 1.63 meters. In wheelchair fencing at the Nagoya City Inae Sports Center, Wilfredo Bugayong II and Violeta Sapalit reached the knockout rounds but bowed out of medal contention in saber. Bugayong advanced to the men’s Category A round of 16 after defeating Hong Kong’s Lee Sheung Ho, 155, in the preceding round. He then fell to China’s Cheng Yang, 6-15. Sapalit likewise exited in the round of 16, losing to South Korea’s Kim Yeji, 6-15.

Lhey Manginsay and Wilfred Redulla display their medals PPC-PSC

NAGOYA—When the pressure mounted against India and Japan, table tennis para athletes Lhey Manginsay and Wilfred Redulla relied on a partnership built over just two years. That trust carried them to the mixed doubles Class XD17 silver on Thursday, ending the Philippines’ eight-year medal drought in table tennis at the Asian Para Games. The pair had shown promise from the start. Teamed up upon joining the national squad in 2024, they won gold in their first tournament together at the ITTF Para Future Taipei. “Since nakapasok po kami sa national team, kami na po talaga pinagpartner noong 2024,” Redulla said. In Aichi-Nagoya, that early promise faced a tougher test. Trailing India by two games in the quarterfinals, Manginsay and Redulla had to overcome the nerves that came with knowing a medal was within reach. They recovered to win the next three games and secure a place in the semifinals. Against Japan’s Koyo Iwabuchi and Yuri Tomono, whom Manginsay described as the world’s third-ranked pair, the Filipinos again found themselves in trouble, falling behind 3-8 in the deciding fifth game. Their response was simple: one point at a time.

“Huwag isipin ‘yung lamang, basta kuha lang,” they said, recalling how they worked their way back to complete a 3-2 victory. For Manginsay, reaching the final still felt difficult to believe. “This feels surreal pa rin until now,” she said. “Hindi kami nag-lay low hanggang sa huling puntos. Nilaban po namin with all our heart.” Redulla also found redemption in doubles after narrowly missing a singles medal. He put that disappointment aside and devoted his energy to their partnership. “Alam namin, medyo mahirap talaga ‘yung lalabanan namin. Matataas po talaga ‘yung ranks nila,” he said. “Pero siyempre, with our chemistry and tiwala sa isa’t isa, nilaban po namin.” Their pursuit of gold ended against China’s Zhao Shuai and Xiong Guiyan, who prevailed, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4, 11-6, at Sky Hall Toyota. Still, the silver ended the Philippines’ medal drought in the sport since the late Josephine Medina’s silver at the 2018 Jakarta Games. Manginsay said part of their medal incentives could help them improve their performance. “Siyempre, ‘yung incentives is for family, and para mag-invest din po sa sarili namin para mas ma-improve pa po ‘yung performance,” she said.

Yulo seeks 2nd world floor exercise crown By Jeremiah Sevilla FILIPINO star athlete Carlos Yulo begins his golden hunt in the 2026 FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships when he competes in the floor exercise final on Saturday in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Philippine sports’ “Golden Boy” seeks his second world title in the event when the first day of the apparatus finals starts at 8 p.m. (Philippine time) before aiming to defend his vault crown the next day. The Paris Olympics and Asian Games double gold medalist enters the floor exercise final as a strong podium contender after placing second in the qualifications with 14.500 points behind junior allaround world champion Arsenii Dukhno of Russia, who emerged atop with 14.700. Yulo will also face familiar opponents in Artem Dolgopyat of Israel and Filipino-British standout Jake Jarman, who finished second and third, respectively,

behind the Filipino dynamo in Paris. Dolgopyat ranked third in the qualifiers with 14.300 points while Jarman ended up fifth with 14.133. Rounding out the eight-man final are Richard Frederick of the United States (14.233), Yahor Sharamkou of Belarus (14.100), Noam Berkovich of Israel (14.033), and Ryosuke Doi of Japan (14.033). Despite admitting a few blunders in the qualifying round, Yulo remained optimistic of his chances. “Things happen, and we learn. We had a couple mistakes, but I’m going to take it as a lesson,” Yulo told International Gymnast Online after Sunday’s qualifying round. “We’re always winning in a lesson, so there’s no need to be down,” he added. The 26-year-old gymnastics stalwart seized his first world title in floor exercise in the 2019 World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. He settled for bronze in last year’s edition in Jakarta, Indonesia. After the floor exercise final, Yulo

will then turn his attention to the vault on Sunday, where he hopes to retain his title and claim a third world championship gold in the event. Yulo landed sixth in the vault qualifications with 14.266 points after performing the high-difficulty Ri Se-Gwang, but received a difficulty score of 5.2 for the tucked Dragulescu vault instead of the 5.6 he had anticipated. Jarman and Artur Davtyan of Armenia, who won the vault gold in 2023 and 2022, respectively, headline the finalists with 14.633 apiece. Nazar Chepurnyi of Ukraine (14.450), Dukhno (14.350), Shohei Kawakami of Japan (14.283), Sebastian Sponevik of Norway (14.233), and Harry Hepworth of Great Britain (14.216) complete the eight-man field. Yulo first copped the vault world title in 2021 in Kitakyushu, Japan, before reclaiming the crown last year in Jakarta.

Carlos Yulo

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. secures P35.014 billion in syndicated project financing from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). Attending the ceremonial signing are (from left) CREC chief finance officer Michelle Magdato, BPI Capital president Lester Ong, CREC president and chief executive Oliver Tan, LandBank senior vice president for treasury and investment banking sector Gonzalo Benjamin Bongolan, CREC chairman Edgar Saavedra, BPI institutional banking segment head Luis Cruz, DBP corporate banking group head Abener Balatbat, CREC director Manuel Louie Ferrer, LandBAnk SVP- investment banking group Vilma Cervantes and BPI wealth senior vice president Yvette De Peralta.

P35 billion Syndicated project financing

900 MWp Total capacity of 5 solar projects

550,000 Households to be served by clean power

CREC secures P35-b loan to fund 5 solar projects C ITICORE Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) said Friday it secured P35.014 billion in syndicated project financing from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) for five solar projects in Batangas. The facility, the company’s largest syndicated financing to date, will fund 900 megawatt-peak of additional solar capacity and 120 MWh of integrated battery energy storage systems (BESS). The projects consist of two solar plants of 300 MWp each and three solar plants of 100 MWp each, with every 100-MWp plant integrated with a 40-MWh BESS. The Department of Energy awarded offtake for the entire capacity under its Green Energy Auction Program Round 4 (GEA-4). The five projects are expected to generate about 1,300 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean

electricity a year, enough to power about 550,000 households. They would avoid an estimated 850,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually and create local jobs during construction and operations, it said. “Securing P35.014 billion financing is an important milestone for Citicore Renewables as we accelerate the delivery of our renewable energy pipeline. Projects of this scale require strong execution and the right financial partners, and we are deeply grateful to have BPI, LANDBANK and DBP alongside us. Ultimately, our goal goes beyond building

DOE-DENR order scares investors, says mining groups

STRATEGIC COOPERATION. The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) renew their strategic partnership to unlock more energy and infrastructure investments in the Philippines through the signing of a memorandum on strategic cooperation. Signing the threeyear memorandum of cooperation are Finance Secretary Frederick Go (left) and JBIC Governor Amakawa Kazuhiko.

By Alena Mae S. Flores TWO mining industry groups warned that a new government order on mining contracts could make investors nervous and hurt the country’s push to attract foreign money. The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) and the Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) said Joint Administrative Order No. 2026-01, issued by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), makes the rules unclear and adds risk for investors. The groups said they support the government’s goal of developing the country’s mineral resources responsibly. They said, however, that the order’s effects would reach well beyond mining. “These ripples extend beyond the mining sector. The country at this time is at the crosshairs of foreign investors, particularly those interested in Pax Silica. The country must not let this golden opportunity pass for questionable and even illusory gains,” the groups said. They said attracting foreign direct investment is a priority and the order does not help. The groups pointed to three main problems. First, the order requires current operators to hand over their equipment and other operating assets when their contracts end, even though the law says those assets stay privately owned. Second, the bidding rules may put current operators at a disadvantage by counting the cost of closing a mine and the value of their assets, they said. Third, the way bids are scored works against proven technical know-how, operating track records and environmental performance. The order was also one of the issues Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC) raised with the DOE that remain unanswered. SMPC plans to join the government’s auction of the Semirara coal site but said the DOE appears to be shutting it out of the bidding.

capacity. We want to help shape the future of renewable energy in the Philippines,” said CREC president and chief executive Oliver Tan. The new projects will expand Citicore Renewables’ presence in Batangas, where it operates 374 MWp of solar capacity and 560 MWh of BESS, with another 198 MWp of solar nearing completion. The expansion reinforces the company’s strategy of clustering projects for more efficient development and execution. “This financing demonstrates how strong partnerships can mobilize capital for the country’s renewable energy goals. LandBank remains committed to financing strategic clean energy infrastructure that strengthens energy security, supports the transition to a low-carbon economy and advances sustainable economic growth for the country,” said LandBank president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz.

PH resilient to external shocks, says Japan credit agency By Thony Rose Lesaca THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Friday welcomed Japan Credit Rating Agency’s (JCR) favorable assessment of the Philippines’ external position, citing its resilience against external shocks. JCR said in its latest issuer report the country’s resilience to external shocks is supported by accumulated foreign exchange reserves and a favorable foreign currency liquidity position. BSP data showed the country’s foreign exchange reserves stood at $99.5 billion as of end-September 2026, equivalent to about 6.2 months of imports of goods, service payments and primary income. The reserves can also cover about 3.1 times the coun-

try’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity. Cash remittances from overseas Filipino workers reached $23.4 billion from January to August, while business process outsourcing (BPO) revenues climbed to $15.4 billion in the first half of 2026. “Given its solid foreign currency liquidity position, JCR believes that the Philippines will remain highly resilient to external shocks despite increased uncertainties caused by changes in the US tariff policies,” the credit rating agency said. “This resilience is further supported by the relatively limited exposure of Philippine exports to the new US tariffs, with more than 60 percent of exports to the United States remaining exempt

from the additional duty,” it said. BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said the agency’s recognition of the country’s strong external buffers reflects confidence in the Philippine economy. “JCR’s recognition of the country’s strong external buffers reflects confidence in the Philippine economy’s ability to weather global headwinds, including those arising from the Middle East conflict. The BSP will continue to manage the country’s foreign exchange reserves prudently to help safeguard economic stability,” said Remolona. The BSP said the favorable assessment complements JCR’s affirmation of the Philippines’ investment-grade credit rating of “A-” with a “stable” outlook on Aug. 28.

Peso falls to new low of 63.61 per dollar

Atimonan Windkraft eyes P10.8-b wind farm

PNB’s net income up 15% in 9 months

B4 100 firms eye P103.6-b MRT-3 contract—DOTr By Darwin G. Amojelar ABOUT 100 local and international companies have expressed interest in the proposed P103.6 billion concession for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the government aims to award the concession by mid-2027 as part of efforts to modernize the EDSA rail line and improve commuter services. The privatization follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize modernizing MRT-3, which serves more than 388,000 passengers daily across 13 stations along EDSA. “Through public-private partnership, we bring in the expertise and investment this line needs. What we need here is a partner with extensive experience in operating railways, for the benefit of the commuters. And I would like to clarify that the authority to set fares will remain with the DOTr,” Lopez said. The DOTr, in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has held market-sounding activities throughout the year to attract investors, including engagements in Singapore and Tokyo. The department presented the MRT-3 Capacity Expansion, Operations and Maintenance Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Project to prospective international investors.

Over 30,000 home seekers attend housing expo MORE than 30,000 home seekers attended the 2nd National Housing Expo 2026 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Oct. 19 to 20, where more than 80 partner developers offered over 50,000 housing units. The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Pag-IBIG Fund organized the two-day event, the biggest National Housing Expo to date. It was held during the National Shelter Month. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. toured the booths and viewed model units presented by the developers. He was accompanied by DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling, who also chairs the Pag-IBIG Fund board, and Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive Marilene Acosta.

The units on offer included ready-foroccupancy homes and condominiums. Developers offered exclusive expo deals, lower prices and other incentives. Buyers could finance purchases through the PagIBIG Housing Loan. Participating developers included SMDC, Amaia Land, Avida Land, DMCI Homes, Filinvest Land, Megaworld Corp., PH1 World Developers, Robinsons Land and Rockwell Land, along with other major firms. The expo supports President Marcos’ Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (Expanded 4PH) program, which is gaining momentum. DHSUD, Pag-IBIG Fund, the government and the private sector continue to work together to bring affordable, quality housing within reach of more Filipino families.

Over 30,000 home seekers attend the 2nd National Housing Expo 2026 as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. tours model units under the Expanded 4PH program.

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com

BEYOND BORDERS.

JG Summit to consolidate Oriental Petroleum stake

Jollibee Group Global president and chief executive Ernesto Tanmantiong (second from left) champions the global potential of ASEAN’s homegrown brands at the 2026 ASEAN Chinese Business Leaders Summit held on Oct. 19, 2026, in Pasay City. Speaking on ‘From ASEAN to the World: Growing Homegrown Brands Beyond Borders,’ he cites the importance of building globally relevant brands as the region strengthens business ties, innovation, and collaboration. The summit was organized by the Federation of FilipinoChinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII).

By Jenniffer B. Austria JG Summit Holdings Inc. plans to acquire 37.05 billion common shares in listed Oriental Petroleum and Minerals Corp. (OPMC) from its wholly owned subsidiary, JG Summit Capital Services Corp., to consolidate its investment in the oil and gas company at the parent level. JG Summit said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday its board approved the acquisition of the shares, which represent 18.52 percent of OPMC. The block consists of 8.4 billion Class A shares and 28.66 billion Class B shares. JG Summit said it will carry out the transaction through a crossblock sale on the Philippine Stock Exchange, targeted for completion on Oct. 26, subject to applicable rules and regulations. The price per share will be based on OPMC’s 30-day volumeweighted average price up to the close of trading on Oct. 23. JG Summit said it will determine the final price and total consideration after the calculation period ends. OPMC is seeking an exploration permit for a 505-hectare area in Loreto, Dinagat Islands. Oriental Petroleum was incorporated in 1969 to explore, develop and produce petroleum and mineral resources in the Philippines. Its operations depend largely on service contracts with the government. The company derives its petroleum production and related revenues and expenses from Service Contract 14, which covers the Nido, Matinloc, Galoc and West Linapacan fields, as well as a retention area.

Peso slides to new low of 63.61 per US dollar T By Thony Rose Lesaca and Jenniffer B. Austria

HE peso closed at a new record low of 63.61 against the US dollar, while stocks shed 0.88 percent in shaky trading a day after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas announced a 50-basis-point increase in key interest rates.

The peso closed losed 9.5 centavos from Thursday’s finish of 63.52 a dollar, Bankers Association of the Philippines data showed. It opened at P63.35 against the greenback before touching a record intraday low of 63.62. A trader said the peso weakened anew as concerns over domestic inflation resurfaced after the BSP raised its 2027 inflation forecast to 6.0 percent from 5.4 percent.

“The weakness of the local currency might persist into next week ahead of the Fed policy meeting,” the trader said. Another trader blamed the same reasons, citing weak economic growth, a growing budget deficit and a potential snag in government spending after the latest Supreme Court ruling on the budget. “Same reasons. I think [what adds] to the weakness is BSP’s affirmation [that] they don’t target a specific level for the peso. So for those speculating, it is like testing BSP’s real threshold,” the second trader said. Philippine stocks also fell on Friday as investors weighed the latest BSP rate hike. The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) shed 51.10 points, or 0.88 percent, to close at 5,728.63. The broader all-share index declined by 27.67 points, or 0.86 percent, to settle at 3,193.29. The BSP on Thursday raised its overnight borrowing rate by 50 basis points to 5.50 percent to counter broadening price pressures and further upside risks to inflation. Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said weaker regional markets and the peso’s continued depreciation also weighed on investor sentiment. Limlingan said declining precious metal prices and persistently elevated oil prices also contributed to cautious trading. Most sectoral indices ended lower, led by the mining and oil index, which dropped 2.12 percent. The property index fell 1.88 percent, holding firms lost 1.52 percent and the industrial index declined 1.51 percent. Services slipped 0.01 percent.

PSE expects Maya to follow GCash listing after record IPO

THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) expects a local listing for Maya after the successful initial public offering (IPO) of Mynt Inc., the parent company of e-wallet GCash. PSE president and chief executive Ramon Monzon said PLDT Inc., which owns 40 percent of Voyager Innovations Inc. (VII), the operator of Maya, wants the digital bank to list in the Philippines. Maya’s private equity funds, however, may prefer an overseas listing to secure a higher valuation. A dual listing in the Philippines and abroad could also be considered, although no decision has been made, Monzon said. He said the recent listing of Mynt could demonstrate the benefits of listing locally and encourage other companies to follow suit. Mynt raised a record P60.9 billion in proceeds and attracted more than 20 foreign and domestic cornerstone investors for its maiden share offering. The global investors include BlackRock, Capital Research and Management, Fidelity, HSBC Global Asset Management, International Finance Corp., Lazard Asset Management, Ninety One, Schroders, Citadel’s Surveyor Capital and T. Rowe Price. The domestic cornerstone investors include ATRAM Trust Corp., BPI Asset Management and Trust Corp., China Bank Capital Corp., Metrobank Bank & Trust Co., Philequity Management Inc. and RCBC Capital Corp. Maya, backed by telecommunications giant PLDT and major private Manila equity and strategic investors, was reportedly considering Standard listing in both the United States and the Philippines early this year. TODAY Its foreign private equity funds reportedly favored a US listing to tap a deeper capital pool. Jenniffer B. Austria Career Opportunity in Jellyfish Education Philippines Inc. Nihongo Instructor (1 Vacancy) Job Description: • Teach Japanese language classes to beginners and/or advanced learners. • Develop lesson plans and teaching materials. • Assess student progress and provide feedback. • Conduct classroom activities that promote language learning and cultural understanding. • Support students in preparing for language proficiency tests (e.g., JLPT). Qualification (Education, Experience, Professional License, Skills Certification, Specialized Training): •

• •

Graduated from university and fall under any of the following: o Completed a major/minor in Japanese language education at a University o Passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competition Test o Completed 420 hours of Japanese language teacher training course accepted by the Agency for Cultural Affairs Person or prospective graduate Japanese native level, English daily conversation level Can work for a long time Applications may be sent to: Marie Joy Alejo humanresource.jec@gmail.com

Company/ Employer

Name of foreign national intending to apply for the position

Company Name: Jellyfish Education Philippines Inc. Complete address: Unit 902A East Tower, Tektite Towers, Ortigas Pasig City Nature of business: Education/ Consultancy

Name: Masashi Nakano Address: Unit 1028 Shine Residences Brgy. Ugong Pasig City Nationality: Japanese Intended period of employment: Two (2) years

Company hereby declares that the above-named foreign national is able, willing, and qualified to perform the services and job description for this position. The company has the intention to employ the said foreign national and apply for an Alien Employment Permit with the Department of Labor and Employment - National Capital Region located at 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila.

BUSINESS PH eyes bottle deposit-return system backed by Norway By Othel V. Campos THE Philippines is studying a deposit-return system for plastic bottles with Norway’s support as the two countries look for ways to cut plastic waste, improve recycling and recover valuable materials for reuse. Norwegian Ambassador Kristian Netland said the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila has worked with Philippine partners since 2023 to assess the system’s feasibility. The system could keep plastic bottles in circulation instead of sending them to landfills or the environment. The embassy supported a study on how to adapt the system to Philippine conditions, Netland said at the Norway-Philippines Circular Economy Conference on Thursday. “Waste also represents lost resources, lost economic value, and missed opportunities for innovation and job creation,” he said. The initiative gained momentum earlier this month when a delegation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the private sector visited Norway to study its deposit-return system and other circular economy solutions. Netland said the visit showed how bilateral cooperation can turn research and dialogue into practical solutions and eventual implementation. Norway is ready to share its expertise in bottle-to-bottle recycling, plastic recovery and systems that keep materials in circulation, he said. He cautioned against directly transplanting foreign models, saying solutions should suit local conditions and remain environmentally and economically viable. Netland said the success of circular economy initiatives would depend on tangible results, including material recovery and pollution prevention, rather than the number of conferences held. “The key is to stop thinking of waste as the end of a product’s life and start treating it as the beginning of something new,” he said.

B3 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Atimonan Windkraft plans P10.8-b wind farm in Quezon By Alena Mae S. Flores

TIMONAN Windkraft Corp. (AWC) plans to build a 100-megawatt (MW) wind power project in Quezon province at an estimated cost of P10.8 billion, according to submissions to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The Quezon Wind Power Project will sit along ridges across seven host barangays. It is designed to strengthen grid stability and bring financial and development benefits to local communities. The project covers a 1,539-hectare

wind energy service contract area. It includes 13 wind turbine generators of 8 MW each, internal access roads, a medium-voltage collection system and a dedicated plant substation. Construction is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2027, with com-

mercial operations targeted for the first quarter of 2029. The project cost will fund detailed engineering studies, environmental protection measures, air pollution control devices and continuous environmental monitoring, the DENR submissions showed. “The proposed wind power project will contribute to meeting the growing demand for a reliable and affordable electricity supply,” the company said in its submission. “The project is expected to provide additional generation capacity that can support households, commercial establishments, and industrial users,

while also contributing to long-term national development objectives,” it said. The project is expected to create about 200 jobs at the peak of construction, with preferential hiring for qualified local residents in coordination with the Public Employment Service Office. A dedicated technical and administrative workforce will run operations. Host local government units will receive long-term revenue from local taxes, dues and statutory financial benefits mandated under Energy Regulation No. 1-94 of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001.

INDUSTRY TALKS. Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque meets with executives of Vingroup Joint Stock Company to discuss key industry concerns and regulatory policies concerning imported batteries, tariff measures and product standards. The engagement highlights the importance of policy clarity, effective implementation and regulatory cooperation in promoting fair competition and strengthening the Philippine business environment.

PH durian exporter books $53m in sales at China-ASEAN Expo A PHILIPPINE fresh produce exporter secured $53 million in durian sales at the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO 2026), helping push the country’s total export sales to a record $60 million, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) said. Fresh durian accounted for 90 percent of total sales, reflecting strong Chinese demand for Philippine produce. The result was the highest since the Philippines began participating in the expo in 2004. A record 72 Philippine

enterprises joined the expo under the national showcase brand PARTNERPhilippines. Other products that drew buyers included organic coconut products, coconut oil, herbal beverages, banana chips and coconut-based handicrafts. “This proves that the Philippines is distinctly ‘Programmed for Business and Growth,’” said CITEM executivedirector Leah Pulido Ocampo. CITEM attributed the demand to the products’ tropical flavors, quality controls and relatively short shipping times, as well as Chinese consumers’

CHILD CARE.

Ateneo de Manila University psychologist Dr. Liane Peña Alampay cites significant findings from the Parenting Across Cultures research project, which spanned 4,500 families across nine countries over fifteen years. The study links frequent spanking to greater anxiety and aggression in children over time. Source: OAVPRCWI

growing preference for healthy and natural products. Improved trade and logistics links are expected to support market access and reduce shipping costs. These include the upgraded China-ASEAN Free Trade Area agreement, known as CAFTA 3.0, and the opening of China’s Pinglu Canal. Cebu was featured as this year’s “Province of Charm,” showcasing its artisanal products, business opportunities and tourism destinations. Alongside the exhibition, the

Board of Investments (BOI) held the Philippine Investment Forum to promote opportunities in advanced manufacturing, innovation, regional supply chains and green economy projects. Business associations also signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen enterprise cooperation. CITEM will next lead the Philippine delegation to the China International Import Expo in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10, where exporters will seek additional supply contracts for fresh produce and seafood. Othel V. Campos

NGCP placed Visayas grid on red, yellow alerts for fourth straight day THE National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) placed the Visayas grid on red alert from 5 to 6 p.m. on Friday, the fourth consecutive day, as plant outages continued to squeeze supply. The grid operator also placed the Visayas on yellow alert from 4 to 5 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Available capacity fell to 2,407 megawatts (MW), below peak demand of 2,558 MW. Eight plants were on forced outage since October, two since September, three since August, one since June, three since May, three since 2025, one since 2024, two since 2023 and one since 2021. About 19 plants ran on derated capacities, leaving a total of 606.6 MW unavailable to the grid.

The alerts followed the unavailability of the Visayas’ large coal plants, PEDC 3 and KSPC 1, and limited power imports from Mindanao. Planned outages at GNPK 4 and TSI 2 and unplanned outages at TSI 1 and Pulangi 4 unit 2 constrained those imports. In Mindanao, 474.9 MW remained unavailable to the grid, prompting NGCP to place the region on yellow alert from 5 to 6 p.m. NGCP issues a red alert when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirement. It issues a yellow alert when the operating margin is insufficient to meet the grid’s contingency requirement. Alena Mae S. Flores

BNEC seeks ERC nod for P1.42-b wind farm line BAGO-NEGROS Energy Corp. (BNEC), a unit of Thai firm Semsang Power Public Co. Ltd., has asked the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for approval to develop and own dedicated point-to-point transmission facilities linking its 150-megawatt Bago Wind Power Project to the Visayas Grid. The facilities will cost an estimated P1.42 billion and cover the connection infrastructure, interim transmission facilities and final transmission components needed to integrate the wind farm into the power system, BNEC said in its application. BNEC filed the application to bridge a timing gap between the wind project’s scheduled commercial operations on Dec. 30, 2027, and the projected January 2035 completion of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’ (NGCP) La Carlota 138-kilovolt substation. To cover the interim period, the company secured system operator clearance to establish a temporary bus-in connection along the Bacoloid-Kabankalan

138-kilovolt transmission line. BNEC also asked the ERC to issue a provisional authority or interim relief so it can start construction on schedule. “Thus, it is necessary for Bago WPP to be connected to the grid at the earliest possible opportunity,” the company said. “Considering the increasing demand in the area and in order to provide additional capacity to the Visayas Grid, it is necessary that BNEC be ready to commence operation based on its project timeline. Consequently, it is necessary to construct the subject facility to immediately connect the Bago WPP to the grid; hence, BNEC asks the Honorable Commission to issue a provisional authority or interim relief,” it said. BNEC has engaged Powerchina International Group Ltd. and Powerchina Philippines Corp. to build the facility, saying both have the technical capability and competence to do so. Alena Mae S. Flores

WATER SYSTEM. OceanaGold (Philippines), Inc. turns over the P115-million Didipio Water System to the Didipio community in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya through the Barangay local government unit (BLGU), strengthening long-term water security and climate resilience while ensuring reliable access to clean and safe water for present and future generations. Sourced from Napagayan Creek within the Napagayan Watershed, the Didipio Water System produces an average of 850,000 liters of treated water per day for domestic use and is designed to serve up to 1,500 households, nearly twice Barangay Didipio’s 860 households.

BUSINESS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026 extrastory2000@gmail.com RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

PNB’s income up 15% in 9 months UnionBank’s 9-month profit P jumped 53% By Jenniffer B. Austria

UNION Bank of the Philippines said Friday net income jumped 53 percent to P9.9 billion in the first nine months of 2026 from a year ago on higher revenues and wider interest margins. Net revenues grew 8 percent to P65.5 billion as net interest income and fees increased, on the back of the bank’s growing retail customer base of more than 19.5 million. Net interest income rose 9 percent to P51.9 billion, while net interest margin improved by 34 basis points to 6.9 percent. Current and savings account (CASA) deposits grew 5 percent from a year earlier. Non-interest income increased 5 percent to P13.6 billion. Fees and commissions also rose 5 percent to P11.9 billion, with income from wealth management and bancassurance up 52 percent. Consumer loans made up 62 percent of the bank’s total loan portfolio, nearly 3 times the industry average, UnionBank said. “Our first-nine-month performance gives us momentum to deliver a better full-year result than last year, even under more difficult market conditions,” UnionBank chief financial officer Manuel Lozano said. “We are proactively building our reserves to strengthen our balance sheet and support growth amid increasing credit pressures. Alongside this, we continue to align our organizational capabilities, optimize capital deployment, and rationalize businesses where we believe resources can better create sustainable longterm value,” he said. UnionBank said its board approved a plan to integrate the operations of its digital banking subsidiary UnionDigital Bank and fintech unit UBX into the parent bank, subject to regulatory approval. UnionBank president and chief executive Ana Delgado said the move would strengthen the bank’s digital services, improve efficiency and allow it to serve more Filipinos. Jenniffer B. Austria

HILIPPINE National Bank (PNB), the financial arm of tycoon Lucio Tan, said Friday it posted a net income of P21.3 billion in the first nine months of 2026, up 15 percent from P18.5 billion a year ago on the back of loan growth and improving asset quality.

Return on equity rose to 11.6 percent from 11 percent, while return on assets improved to 2.1 percent from 2 percent. “Our nine-month performance and improving asset quality reflect disciplined execution, while our AI initiatives are beginning to deliver

benefits,” PNB president and chief executive Edwin Bautista said in a statement to the stock exchange Friday. Gross loans grew 13 percent year-on-year to P793 billion as of September, led by a 15-percent increase in corporate and commercial loans to P726 billion. Consumer loans rose 11 percent to P66 billion, with mortgage loans accounting for more than 80 percent of the growth in the segment. Total deposits increased 9 percent yearon-year. The bank’s current and savings account (CASA) ratio remained at 78 percent, supporting a net interest margin of 4.6 percent. PNB said its gross nonperforming loan (NPL) ratio improved to 4 percent from 5.2 percent a year ago as the bank continued collection and recovery efforts, resolved problem accounts

and booked loans with stronger credit quality. Fee-based and other non-interest income also contributed to earnings, driven mainly by bancassurance and fees from PAL Mabuhay credit cards. Allianz-PNB Life ranked first in the industry’s 2026 new-business bancassurance ranking, the bank said. The bank remained well-capitalized, with a common equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 19.3 percent and a capital adequacy ratio (CAR) of 20 percent. PNB chief financial officer Francis Albalate said the successful listing of real estate arm PNB Holdings Corp. would give the bank an opportunity to realize the full economic value of its investments in the company. The listing could also strengthen PNB’s capital position and support its medium- to long-term growth, Albalate said.

GPC PROGRAM. The Office of the President and Land Bank of the Philippines sign a memorandum of agreement for the adoption of the LandBank Visa Government Purchase Card (GPC), reinforcing ongoing efforts to strengthen public financial management through digital innovation. Signing the agreement on Sept. 29, 2026 at Malacanang are Deputy Executive Secretary Dennis Santiago and LandBank first vice president Kristine Marie Cuevas.

NAIA international passengers increased 2.6% to nearly 20m in 10 months By Darwin G. Amojelar INTERNATIONAL passenger traffic at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) rose 2.6 percent year-onyear to 19.93 million from Jan. 1 to Oct. 22, 2026, despite disruptions to global aviation from the conflict in the Middle East. NAIA operator New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) said in a statement the airport handled 507,772 more international passengers than the 19.42 million

IN BRIEF

recorded in the same period last year. International traffic continued to grow in October, rising 2.05 percent to 1.39 million passengers in the first 22 days of the month. “It’s encouraging to see international passenger traffic continuing to grow despite the challenges affecting aviation worldwide. It shows that demand for travel to and from the Philippines remains strong,” NNIC general-manager Lito Alvarez said. “Our responsibility is to make sure NAIA can support that demand with

better facilities, more reliable operations, and a better experience for passengers,” he said. International passengers accounted for 48.1 percent of NAIA’s total traffic, up from 46.6 percent a year earlier. Domestic passenger volume declined 3.4 percent to 21.49 million. Airlines are adding international services to Manila or announcing new routes. Air France has resumed flights to the Philippines, while Philippine Airlines (PAL) will launch nonstop flights to Chicago in November and

Firms encouraged to treat digital trust as business asset

GMA Network parent firms approve merger GMA Network Inc.’s principal shareholders, Television International Corp. (TIC) and M.A. Jimenez Enterprises Inc. (MAJEI), approved a merger where TIC will be the surviving corporation. GMA said in a disclosure to the stock exchange TIC and MAJEI held separate board and stockholders’ meetings to approve the merger. The companies will submit the merger documents to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for approval. GMA did not provide details on the merger terms or its potential impact on the network. The network earlier reported a net income of P110 million in the first half of 2026, down 94 percent from P1.96 billion a year ago. Consolidated revenues for the period fell 35 percent to P6.61 billion from P10.09 billion. GMA said the decline was mainly due to the absence of more than P2 billion in political advocacy and advertising inflows recognized during the 2025 election period. Darwin G. Amojelar

ERC wants customers notified on bill deposits THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has directed distribution utilities (DUs) to notify customers in writing before reimposing bill deposits, after customers of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) suffered bill shocks this month. “Before reimposing a bill deposit, DUs that opt to do so must issue and serve a written notice to the affected consumers explaining the basis for the reimposition, the computation of the amount reimposed, and the consumers’ option to pay it in three equal monthly installments, as in the case of new connections,” the ERC said. The Magna Carta for Electricity Consumers mandates the reimposition of bill deposits under Articles 7 and 34. A bill deposit is a financial guarantee that DUs require to cover customers’ unpaid consumption if they default or disconnect with an outstanding balance. Unless the consumer opts to pay in full or the DU allows a longer period, the reimposed deposit is payable in 3 equal monthly installments, counted from the consumer’s receipt of the notice, the ERC said. The ERCsaid that failure to pay a reimposed bill deposit is grounds for disconnection, subject to prior written notice by the DU. Alena Mae S. Flores

Over 1,000 Globe cell sites switch to renewable power GLOBE Telecom Inc. said it has converted more than 1,000 cell sites to renewable energy as of August 2026 through the government’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP). Globe said it is the first Philippine telecommunications operator to reach the milestone. “A major highlight of executing our net zero strategy has been leveraging the government-initiated Retail Aggregation Program,” said Globe senior vice-president for engineering and network planning Joel Agustin. “As the first telco in the Philippines to switch cell sites to renewable energy under RAP, converting over 1,000 sites to clean power reinforces our commitment to operational efficiency, network resilience, and disaster readiness,” he said. Globe adopted the program in 2025 and highlighted the achievement at its Energize 2026 event at The Globe Tower. The event brought together stakeholders to advance power supply management and energy efficiency initiatives. The company is also replacing diesel generators in remote provinces with hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV) systems paired with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The systems use lithium-ion and sodium-nickel batteries, which Globe said offer safer handling and longer life than legacy lead-acid batteries. At sites that still need generators, automated load management systems optimize fuel use and minimize engine run times. Darwin G. Amojelar

to Delhi and Mumbai in December, subject to regulatory approval for the Indian routes. Delta Air Lines will begin nonstop flights between Los Angeles and Manila in March 2027, operating three times weekly before moving to daily service in June. Indian carrier IndiGo is also expected to introduce services to Manila. NAIA ranked sixth globally for international low-cost carrier connectivity in aviation data provider OAG’s 2026 Megahubs index.

MSME LOANS. Jomar Pabutasan, owner of Jomar Jade Refreshment in Angeles City, Pampanga, is among the clients that availed of Asialink Finance Corp. loans for micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME).

DTI eyes mandatory safety permits for e-bikes, electric motorcycles By Othel V. Campos THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is proposing mandatory safety certification for electric bicycles, motorcycles and other light electric vehicles (LEVs), including their batteries, to prevent electrical malfunctions, overheating and fires. Under the draft regulation, covered vehicles and batteries should comply with applicable Philippine National Standards (PNS) before they can be sold or distributed locally. Batteries will be certified separately from complete vehicles. The rules cover e-bikes, personal e-mobility devices, electrically propelled mopeds, electric motorcycles and their batteries. Standalone charging equipment and infrastructure, battery-

swapping stations, stationary battery energy storage systems and electrical components not explicitly covered are exempt. Relevant sub-components may still be tested as part of a complete vehicle when applicable standards require it. The DTI, through the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), held a public consultation on the draft Technical Regulation Concerning the Mandatory Certification of Micromobility on Oct. 14 in Taguig City. The proposed regulation aims to keep substandard products out of the domestic market and ensure that LEVs sold to Filipino consumers meet safety standards. The DTI invited stakeholders and technical experts to submit comments and recommendations on the draft rules.

BUSINESSES should treat digital trust as a strategic asset tied to customer confidence and economic participation, consumer group CitizenWatch Philippines said. The advocacy group urged companies and government to adopt consistent safeguards against online scams. “Digital trust is not only a cybersecurity concern; it is a business asset,” said Kit Belmonte, former legislator and CitizenWatch co-convenor. “Customers are more likely to use digital services when they believe their data and transactions are protected. Companies and government should strengthen and embed trust in how they operate, making trust a shared responsibility across the companies and institutions that serve them,” said Belmonte. Filipinos increasingly rely on digital services for payments, commerce, education, health care and government transactions. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the digital economy generated P2.74 trillion in gross value added in 2025, equivalent to 9.8 percent of gross domestic product. Consumer confidence faces pressure from fraud. TransUnion’s second-half of 2025 report found that 65 percent of Filipino consumers surveyed had been targeted by fraud through email, online, phone or text, compared with 48 percent globally. “When people do not feel safe online, they can lose confidence in the services they depend on,” Belmonte said. “That affects consumers directly, and it can also weaken the willingness of customers to participate in the digital economy,” said Belmonte.

TECH

C1 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com

THE TRUE CAMERA BUILT FOR EVERY PERSPECTIVE

OPPO Find X10 Series is here

VERY photograph tells a story, but capturing it as it truly happened takes more than a powerful camera. From the finest details of a portrait to the changing light of a landscape, great photography is about preserving the colors, textures, and atmosphere that make every moment worth remembering.

OPPO brings this philosophy to life in its latest generation of flagship smartphones with the official Philippine launch of the OPPO Find X10 Series, featuring the OPPO Find X10 and OPPO Find X10 Pro Max. Delivering on the promise of “The True Camera Phone,” the series combines imaging technology co-developed with Hasselblad, the next-generation LUMO True Image Engine, and advanced camera systems to capture images with remarkable clarity and consistency across focal lengths. Leading the lineup is the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max, debuting the industryfirst Triple 200MP Camera System. Exclusive to the Pro Max, this breakthrough brings 200MP resolution to the main, ultra-wide, and telephoto cameras, capturing stunning detail from sweeping landscapes to distant subjects. The OPPO Find X10 joins the lineup with a powerful Dual 200MP Camera System, giving users more freedom to capture everyday moments with striking clarity. Together, the two devices mark a new chapter in OPPO’s pursuit of authentic imaging, where advanced technology works to preserve the beauty of a scene rather than change how it naturally appears. Three 200MP Cameras, No Weak Focal Length. Smartphone photography has traditionally placed its strongest imaging capabilities on the main camera, often requiring users to compromise on

era, designed to bring distant subjects closer without sacrificing image quality. From expressive portraits to architectural details and live performances, it offers greater flexibility to compose photographs from different distances.

OPPO introduces its next-generation flagship smartphones, led by the industry’s first Triple 200MP Camera System on the Find X10 Pro Max, Hasselblad imaging innovations, and true-to-life photography across every focal length.

clarity when switching to ultra-wide or telephoto perspectives. The OPPO Find X10 Series challenges this limitation by delivering exceptional imaging capabilities across different focal lengths, allowing users to approach every subject with greater creative freedom. At the forefront is the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max’s industry-first Hasselblad Triple 200MP Camera System, featuring three high-resolution cameras, each designed to excel in a different photographic perspective. Its 200MP Ultra HDR Main Camera captures exceptional detail through a large 1/1.3-inch sensor, making it ideal for portraits, everyday photography, and scenes with challenging lighting conditions. For expansive landscapes, architecture, and group compositions, the 200MP Ultra-Sensing Ultra-Wide Camera offers a 124-degree field of view, capturing more of the scene while retaining remarkable detail. Its

Sample photo

autofocus also enables close-up macro photography, revealing intricate textures that might otherwise go unnoticed. Completing the system is the 200MP Ultra-Sensing Telephoto Cam-

Converge CEO underscores role of transparent governance in unlocking digital progress DENNIS Anthony Uy, co-founder and CEO of leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc., is calling for greater transparency and accountability in governance to help the Philippines maximize opportunities in digital transformation and emerging technologies. Speaking before the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the country’s largest business organization, Uy highlighted the importance of sustaining the government’s efforts to create an enabling environment for artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, emphasizing that good governance is essential to translating these opportunities into meaningful economic progress. “Today, global investors and foreign partners are knocking on our door, eager to do business with the Philippines. They see our location, our workforce,

Converge CEO Dennis Anthony Uy has called for greater transparency and accountability in governance, saying this will help the Philippines maximize opportunities in digital transformation and emerging technologies.

and our potential. The opportunity is right in front of us. But let us be

honest: our old habits are getting in the way. Corruption holds back our

The OPPO Find X10 brings this same commitment to versatile imaging through its Dual 200MP Camera System, combining a 200MP UltraClear Main Camera and a 200MP Ultra-Sensing Telephoto Camera with a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera. Beyond resolution, both devices give users the flexibility to crop and reframe high-resolution images while retaining fine detail. This allows a single photograph to reveal multiple compositions, giving photographers more creative possibilities even after the shutter has been pressed True-to-Life Photography, Powered by LUMO True Image Engine While high resolution captures more detail, a truly exceptional photograph must also preserve the character of the moment. The OPPO Find X10 Series introduces the LUMO True Image Engine, OPPO’s next-generation computational imaging technology designed to reproduce authentic colors, natural lighting, and realistic textures. Developed to address the excessive processing often associated with smartphone photography, the LUMO True Image Engine brings together three essential elements of image quality: true-to-life color, tone, and texture. Its next-generation True Color Camera uses 24-channel multispectral capture and delivers 5.5 times the dynamic range of its predecessor, allowing the device to interpret colors more accurately across different lighting conditions. This helps preserve natural skin tones, subtle color variations, and the original character of a scene. progress. Red tape chokes our small businesses,” said Uy during the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E), held on Wednesday, October 14. Uy’s message underscores the importance of ensuring that the country’s growing digital ambitions are supported by transparent processes, accountable institutions, and an environment where businesses can innovate, invest, and contribute to national development. He also recognized policy initiatives such as Executive Order No. 119, s. 2026, establishing a Data Residency Framework, and the creation of a Center for AI Research as important steps toward strengthening the country’s digital ecosystem and positioning the Philippines to participate more actively in the global technology landscape. Converge has been an active partner of PCCI in advancing the country’s digital agenda. In 2025, the company and the business organization placed digital and ICT solutions at the forefront of the PBC&E, bringing together more than 85 local and international technology brands to showcase innovations and connect them with Philippine businesses.

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Scientist.com launches Agentic AI Platform SCIENTIST.COM, the leading R&D orchestration platform and marketplace, today announced new agentic AI capabilities that enable scientists to move directly from experimental protocols to qualified laboratory providers and purchase orders. The platform uses AI agents to identify required services, match suitable laboratories, compare proposals, and manage purchasing through existing enterprise procurement workflows. Through Model Context Protocol (MCP), Scientist.com enables external AI assistants, such as Claude, to discover suppliers and initiate research procurement workflows directly. Scientist.com uses AI agents to identify platform users’ required research services, match suitable laboratories, compare proposals, and manage purchasing through their existing enterprise procurement workflows. Scientist.com uses AI agents to identify platform users’ required research services, match suitable laboratories, compare proposals, and manage purchasing through their existing enterprise procurement workflows. From Scientific Protocol to Qualified Laboratory Scientist.com’s agentic platform simplifies the research procurement process: * Analyze uploaded protocols to identify required laboratory services and capabilities * Match those requirements across a network of qualified laboratories * Receive and compare multiple proposals side-by-side, with AI assistance * Turn selected proposals into orders while applying organizational purchasing policies Researchers can also initiate purchasing workflows by entering a simple description of their needs, uploading an existing supplier quote, or referring to a previous purchase they want to repeat. What sets Scientist.com apart is the infrastructure behind the AI. Its established global network includes more than 6,000 qualified suppliers already covered by existing legal agreements. This allows AI agents to move beyond supplier recommendations to initiate real transactions without the delays associated with traditional supplier onboarding and contracting. “Scientists should spend their time designing experiments and advancing discoveries, not finding laboratories and navigating procurement,” said Diana Ourthiague, PhD, CCO at Scientist.com. “We’re connecting scientific intent directly to the laboratories that can execute the work. By combining AI with our established supplier network and legal infrastructure, we’re removing the barriers that have traditionally slowed outsourced research.”

New home for brands: Billease deals, a 0% fee storefront now open to public on the web BILLEASE, the Philippines’ leading consumer finance and buynow-pay-later (BNPL) platform, has today announced Billease Deals as a new home for brands and distributors in the Philippines: a marketplace where sellers list for free and shoppers arrive with pre-approved credit. Deals, previously available only inside the Billease app, is now publicly accessible on the web at deals. billease.ph and runs on any mobile browser. On Deals, the brand or distributor is the seller. It sets the price, lists the product and handles fulfillment and delivery. Billease hosts the listing, brings the shopper and provides the installment financing at checkout. Billease takes nothing from the sale and earns only when the customer chooses to pay in installments. Billease estimates that brands selling online today pay close to 20

percent of each marketplace sale once commissions, payment fees and the advertising needed to stay visible are combined. The alternative, a standalone web store, charges per transaction and brings no traffic. Deals is designed to remove both costs: 0% fees for sellers: no platform fees, no commissions, no listing charges and no payment-processing markups on any Deals sale. Full brand control: the brand sets pricing and promos and keeps control of inventory, logistics and lastmile delivery. Credit-first discovery: shoppers see their available Billease credit limit while browsing, so an offer is seen by someone who already knows they can afford it. 0% promos as a lever: brands and distributors can run 0% installment promotions directly to Billease’s customer base of millions of preapproved users. Billease carries the

financing; the brand sets the promo and ships the order. Open on the web and in the app: shoppers reach Deals from any mobile browser or from inside the Billease app. One catalog feeds both. No integration work: existing merchant partners list through Billease’s existing API or manual upload. For shoppers, Deals carries electronics, laptops, home appliances, personal care and health services from accredited merchants, with more categories to follow as brands sign on. Eligible items come with 0% down payment and 0% interest

offers from participating brands. On offers that carry interest, interest is computed on the declining principal balance, so a customer who pays early pays less. Select devices come with a complimentary one-year protection plan against accidental and liquid damage from insurtech partner Protech Devices. The platform carries the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Trustmark for safety, transparency and data privacy. Every order is fulfilled and delivered by the brand or distributor that listed it. Kurt Molina, Head of POS Product at Billease, said: “In the Philippines, the number a shop-

per actually decides on is the monthly payment. That is how households budget, whether it is a phone or a refrigerator. Most online stores show the full price first and the installment last, buried at checkout, after the shopper has already decided themselves out of it. Deals flips that order. The shopper lands on the product page already knowing their credit limit, so when a brand runs a 0% promo, the person seeing it knows on the spot that they can afford it. We call it credit-first commerce, and we want brands, distributors and ecommerce enablers to make Deals their home for it.” Billease Deals is open now at deals.billease.ph and in the Billease app. Brands, distributors and retailers can register at billease.ph/partners/register or write to merchant@ billease.ph. Integration documentation is at docs.billease.ph/integration/deals/intro.

TECH

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

ORACAY—The signing of Executive Order No. 119 by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. marks a decisive turning point for the Philippines’ digital economy, transforming data sovereignty from a regulatory requirement into a catalyst for high-value enterprise infrastructure and sovereign AI development across the nation. Speaking at the opening of the 9th VST ECS CXO Tech Summit 2026 at Shangri-La Boracay, Jimmy Go, President and CEO of VST ECS Phils., Inc., emphasized to enterprise leaders and technology partners that EO 119 establishes a critical “foundation of trust” necessary for the country’s next stage of digital evolution. The executive order updates the Philippine Government’s data classification framework and enforces stricter data residency policies, requiring sensitive government and enterprise data to be processed and stored securely within national borders. “President Bongbong Marcos has approved EO 119, the Data Sovereignty law updating the Philippine Government’s data classification framework and data residency policy, and strengthening data sovereignty,” said Go during his address to industry executives. “More than regulation, it is a foundation of trust. It compels us to build secure, sovereign infrastructure, accelerates investment in local data centers, and creates new opportunities for Filipino talent.” According to Go, the mandate comes at a pivotal moment when

EO 119 signals new era for Philippine technology —“—

Data Sovereignty Law catalyzes multi-billion-dollar sovereign cloud and infrastructure boom toward domestic semiconductor processing and advanced AI infrastructure value creation. While enterprise IT departments face headwinds from a global highbandwidth memory (HBM) and server DRAM shortage—driven by hyperscale AI workloads—Go

urged Filipino executives to view secure, localized infrastructure as a strategic imperative rather than a hurdle. “As executives, our job is no longer to predict the future with perfect accuracy. Our job is to build organizations that are modular, resilient, and fluid enough to pivot when the future changes overnight,” Go stated. “The Philippines stands at the intersection of global AI demand and local digital transformation. With visionary policy, strategic investment, and global partnerships, we can ensure that our nation is not just adapting to change but leading it.” As the leading ICT distributor in the country, VST ECS is positioned at the epicenter of this transformation, bridging global technology vendors with local integrators and enterprises to deploy compliant, sovereign cloud systems and high-performance hardware. Go concluded with a mandate for business leaders to seize the moment: “The mandate for everyone in this room is clear: Stop managing the present. Start architecting the future. Turn your technology roadmap into your core corporate strategy.”

Addressing CXO Tech Summit 2026, VST ECS President and CEO Jimmy Go highlights how Executive Order 119, coupled with hyperscale investments, establishes the foundation for trust and local AI infrastructure.

global tech giants are making historic commitments to local infrastructure. AWS is moving forward with a reported $5 billion investment to establish a dedicated Philippine cloud region—a move expected to generate thousands of specialized jobs and fortify the nation’s standing in the global digital economy. Furthermore, this policy momentum aligns directly with national vision initiatives like Pax Silica, which aims to transition the Philippines from an exporter of raw mineral resources

The panelists of the CXO Summer Tech 2026 Media Briefing (from left) Harold Lim of Schneider Electric Phils., Matthew Yeo of Dell Technologies, Bambi Escalante of Fortinet Phils., Cherry Centeno of VST ECS Phils., Walter So of HPE, Ida Ong-Co of HP Phils. and Daryush Ashjari of Nutanix

Nvidia boss Snap, print moments with Canon’s Holiday Promo criticizes ‘cheap’ AI doomsday warnings BERLIN—AI chip giant Nvidia’s boss Jensen Huang said on Thursday that warnings artificial intelligence could wipe out humanity were “cheap” attempts to grab headlines. “When you say that it will be the end of the human civilization, first of all, it’s not true,” he told a conference organized by his company in Berlin. While such statements generate “headlines”, they were “made up” and “cheap”, added Huang, whose visit to Berlin is the final stop of a European tour. After incidents of the technology getting around controls during tests, there has been a heated debate about whether AI presents an existential risk to humanity. In September, a researcher resigned from Anthropic with a stark warning that leading AI labs were “gambling with our lives”, and the bosses of Anthropic and fellow industry giant OpenAI have called for a slowdown. Huang, however, is firmly in the opposing camp, and has advocated for development of the technology to move full steam ahead. Speaking in Berlin, he urged the world to approach AI with “responsible optimism”. “If you care about the future, past our own lives, if we care about the future of sustainability, this is the perfect time -- build AI,” he said. “Don’t try to stifle AI.” US regulators are seen as unlikely to intervene when it comes to AI development. President Donald Trump opposes strict regulation and said in September that the US government would rename the technology “super intelligence” in official communications. During Huang’s European tour, Nvidia pledged nearly $10 billion in investments in the continent’s tech sector and urged Europe, which is lagging behind in the AI race, to move faster. AFP

CANON is bringing back the joy of printed memories this Christmas with “’Tis’ the Season: Snap & Print - Holiday Moments with Canon,” its 2026 holiday promotion. From October 1 to December 31, 2026, customers can enjoy special deals on participating Canon cameras and printers, making it easier to capture the season’s gatherings and turn them into keepsakes they can hold. Christmas is a season for coming together: reunions with old friends, long Noche Buena tables with family, and the little moments in between. This year, Canon is celebrating the complete imaging ecosystem, from snapping the laughter and celebrations on a Canon camera to printing them at home with a Canon printer. Those prints can go well beyond the photo album, becoming ornaments on the tree, handmade Christmas cards, or personalized gifts for the people who matter most. For those looking to capture every gathering this season, Canon is offering cashback of up to ₱78,000 on select EOS cameras, including the f lagship EOS R1 and the EOS R6 Mark III. Customers who purchase the EOS C50 can also receive exclusive freebies and pre-

mium items, while selected camera models such as the PowerShot V1 and EOS R6 V are available at 0% interest for 12 months. To turn those snapshots into keepsakes, customers who purchase PIXMA G4770 Megatank Printer will get 2500 Rewards points via Canon PH Delightful App. Other PIXMA Printers also offer exciting rewards up to 1500 points (Please see below for the participating models). Points are credited once customers register their newly purchased printer on the said app, and can be redeemed for e-gift certificates from participating Giftaway merchants, with every one

(1) point equivalent to ₱1.00. PIXMA Megatank printers can also be purchased via Home Credit with exciting deals of 0% interest up to 12 months! “The holidays are when Filipinos come home to the people who matter most, and those moments deserve more than a spot on a phone’s camera roll. With our holiday promo, we want to help every family capture those memories and turn them into something they can hold, share, and treasure for years to come,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President and CEO, Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc.

PROMO PERIOD: October 1 to December 31, 2026 Promo Mechanics: ● The promo is open to any enduser customer residing in the Philippines who purchases a participating PIXMA printer listed below from Canon Authorized Stores within the promo period. ● Customers who purchase a participating printer will receive the corresponding Canon Delightful points. ● For points to be awarded, customers must download the Canon PH Delightful App and register their newly purchased product. ● Every one (1) point is equivalent to ₱1.00 and can be redeemed for e-gift certificates from participating Giftaway merchants on the Canon PH Delightful App. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB268773 Series of 2026 Download and register on the Canon PH Delightful App on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store to redeem reward points. Canon Flagship Stores are also available online via Shopee and Lazada. To learn more about Canon’s holiday promos, follow Canon Marketing Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, and visit the Canon Marketing Philippines website at https:// ph.canon/en/.

Slack Frontline: Simple, secure, mobile-first way for deskless teams to get work done TO your customers, your frontline workers are your brand: the associate who finds the right size, the warehouse lead who ships the order, the home nurse who checks in. They make up about 80% of the global workforce, yet they’ve been left out of the last decade of workplace transformation. While corporate teams have agents, instant customer data, and connected systems, the frontline often runs on paper checklists and group texts, without even a corporate email address. The result is two operating models under one roof, and a divide that drives turnover, compliance risk, and broken customer experiences. Today, we’re closing that gap with Slack Frontline, a purpose-built Slack for people who don’t work behind a desk. Designed for retail associates, healthcare providers, factory workers, and shift leads, this lightweight mobile workspace brings collaboration, data, role-specific tools, and AI together in one clean, clutter-free place. Frontline teams get up to 10 role-relevant channels, instant Huddles with HQ, agents for on-demand answers, and automated workflows that handle the routine so that teams can focus on the work in front

of them. HQ gets vital insight into the ground-floor context and customer feedback, completing the loop for enterprise intelligence. One mobile-first home for your whole frontline operation To date, every frontline tool has forced a tradeoff: point solutions are simple but disconnected, consumer messaging apps are easy but ungoverned, and enterprise tools are built for desk-based knowledge workers. Slack Frontline skips all of that. It’s as easy as texting, backed by the same Salesforce data, and agents as the rest of your business, and governed by IT. The floor stops being a blind spot and becomes part of the same connected business. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

● Equip every frontline team member for the shift ahead: Your frontline teams get the passdown from the last shift, today’s priorities and task list, policy and safety updates, searchable training and howtos, and company-wide announcements, all on the phone in their pocket. This enables them to walk in ready, find any answer in seconds instead of chasing a manager or digging through a group text, and act on what matters most that day, no shared terminal or back-office computer required. ● Extend systems you already run to the floor: The workflows and agents that run your business don’t stop at the office door. Trusted Salesforce data and agents work alongside your frontline teams, so people get answers and take action in the moment, and see only what they have access to. ● Govern your entire workforce under one security layer: Your teams sign in with an employee ID, QR code, or corporate email. Multifactor authentication, admin controls over every app and agent, and Enterprise+ compliance configurations like HIPAA, FINRA, and data residency give IT one governed home, replacing the group texts and shadow apps that put company data at risk.

SHOWBIZ

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

FRONTROW

Following the film’s theatrical release, Wilbert Ross (left) and Bea Binene carry the central romance of a horror-comedy that earns more than P40 million in its first week

Wilbert Ross’ (center) Mak returns from war with four comrades who slowly uncover disturbing rumors about the wife and child waiting for him at home

‘Pee Mak’ gives Thai horror-comedy a Filipino makeover

By Nickie Wang

HE Philippine adaptation of the Thai blockbuster Pee Mak, starring Wilbert Ross and Bea Binene, had me smiling throughout its 118-minute runtime. Had I not known it was a remake, I could easily have mistaken it for an original Filipino film, thanks to its distinctly local humor, romance, and supernatural thrills. Produced by Viva Films and directed by Victor Villanueva, the film introduces the popular Thai horror-comedy to Filipino audiences with a distinctly local flavor. I have not seen the original film, so I cannot offer a direct comparison. Colleagues who watched the 2013 Thai hit, which starred Mario Maurer and Davika Hoorne, said the Philippine version remains faithful to its source material. The Filipino production is among the few international adaptations of the movie, alongside Indonesia’s 2024 version. For those unfamiliar with the story, Pee Mak follows Mak (Ross), a soldier returning home from war who invites four loyal comrades to meet his beloved wife, PeeNang (Binene), and their newborn child. After surviving battle, Mak returns to his hometown with Teryo (Vandolph Quizon), Ayong (Jairus Aquino), Poknat (TJ Valderrama), and Bunak (Gian Bernardino), eager to reunite with his

family. But the welcome they receive is anything but ordinary. The villagers behave strangely, gripped by fear of a local ghost. As the four friends encounter bizarre supernatural occurrences and hear unsettling rumors about Pee-Nang, they begin to suspect a chilling truth: Mak’s wife and baby may already be dead. The premise gives Villanueva plenty of room to play with the familiar ingredients of horror-comedy. Slapstick antics, romantic moments, and well-timed jump scares collide in a distinctly Filipino setting, complete with humor and cultural references that should resonate with local moviegoers. The supporting cast keeps the story moving, with each of Mak’s friends contributing to the comedy and gradually building the suspense. Their banter and punchlines land, helping the film maintain its lighthearted spirit even as the supernatural elements grow darker.

In a conversation with Charo Cordial (left), Korina Sanchez also discusses her relaxed approach to mixing fine jewelry with inexpensive pieces and her support for no-kill animal shelters

SEASONED TV host and broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez once considered signing a prenuptial agreement before marrying former senator Mar Roxas. In an interview with Charo Cordial, founder of Maddox Jewelry, Sanchez recalled consulting a lawyer before their wedding because she wanted to keep her earnings separate from her husband’s finances. “We didn’t have a prenup, but when we were about to get married, I spoke to a lawyer. I told her I wanted a prenup,” Sanchez said. Her reason was simple: She wanted to continue helping people in need without worrying about anyone interfering with her finances. “I didn’t want him meddling with the little money I earn because I love helping people,” she explained. Sanchez said she had helped pay for her nieces and nephews’ education and regularly rescued dogs and cats in need of care. She stressed that money was never her motivation for marrying Roxas. “And I wouldn’t meddle with his money either because that’s not what I was after when I married

“‘Why’ is a love letter to the country. And like any love story, there is heartbreak in what’s happening,” Apl said. The song urges those in positions of power to put the public’s welfare ahead of personal interests, while encouraging Filipinos to stand up for their rights. Apl described Bamboo as an artist he deeply respects, adding that their longawaited collaboration was a dream come true. “We have been wanting to do a collab, and I’m so happy this is the result that really showcases PPP,” he said. “It’s a dream to be able to do this collaboration with him that shows our shared love for the country.” Hope takes the spotlight in “Turn Around,” featuring Filipino-American singer J. Rey Soul, his fellow Black Eyed Peas member. The track speaks to perseverance through personal and national hardships. “After going through a tough time with all the challenges we face as individuals

CHINA’S first fully AI-generated feature film opened in cinemas on Friday, testing the country’s booming tech industry as advance ticket sales lag. More than 10,000 screenings of Sanxingdui: Future Past, a sci-fi thriller, were scheduled for Friday, according to ticketing platform Maoyan. However, public reception has been lukewarm. Presale revenue stood at 65,000 yuan ($9,700) as of Thursday evening, while total box-office takings were forecast to remain below 100,000 yuan, a fraction of the reported production cost, Maoyan said. Jiang Defu, CEO of production company Bona Film Group, acknowledged the muted reception but said the film was pushing boundaries. “We are the first to try it, the first to get a theatrical release permit, and the first to be tested by the audience,” he told Chinese film industry outlet Yuli. “I think that is not easy at all.”

Ross and Binene’s performances give the central romance enough warmth to balance the silliness, and both deliver when the story calls for more dramatic moments. Beneath the jokes and scares lies a love story that gives the film its heart, and it’s the main reason this movie is getting rave reviews. The result is an entertaining crowd-pleaser that understands the appeal of mixing laughter with a good fright. While I cannot say how it measures up against the original, the local adaptation works on its own terms, proving that a familiar story can still feel at home in a different culture. Its commercial performance suggests audiences are buying into the formula. The film earned more than P40 million in its first week and continues to screen nationwide on more than 200 screens.

him,” she said. Her lawyer was reportedly surprised by the request, pointing out that Roxas, whom Sanchez was about to marry, was wealthier than she was. The proposed agreement never materialized. The interview also touched on Sanchez’s approach to jewelry, with the journalist revealing that she had no qualms about mixing expensive pieces with affordable accessories. Asked whether she worried about being criticized for wearing imitation jewelry, Sanchez was unfazed. “Why should I care if I wear fake jewelry?” she said. Sanchez believes style does not have to come with a hefty price tag. During her visit to Maddox Jewelry, however, she picked out pieces worth P1.1 million, joking that her hard work had earned her the right to splurge. “I deserve it. Because I work very hard,” she said. Sanchez also discussed her animal welfare advocacy, revealing that she was helping establish no-kill animal shelters in Siargao and Boracay while continuing to seek support for rescued animals.

Apl.de.Ap champions Filipino pride in first solo EP GLOBAL music star Apl.de.Ap is turning up the volume on Filipino pride with PPP (Power to the Pilipino People), his first solo EP outside the Black Eyed Peas. Released under GMA Music, the three-track EP tackles love, hope, and peace, using Filipino culture, values, and language to deliver a message of unity and empowerment. “This is my first solo EP apart from the Black Eyed Peas,” Apl said. “I wanted to make sure it represented who I am as a Filipino, and I dedicate it to my home country, the Philippines.” He added that the songs aim to inspire Filipinos to recognize their power as individuals and as a nation and encourage them to work together to create lasting change. The EP’s lead single, “Why,” features OPM rock star Bamboo and confronts the heartbreak of seeing one’s country struggle, calling on leaders and citizens to stand up for integrity and the common good.

China’s first AI-made flick faces box-office flop before opening day

Led by Wilbert Ross (center left) and Bea Binene (center right) under director Victor Villanueva (rightmost), the local adaptation combines romance, slapstick, and supernatural scares while keeping the story rooted in familiar Filipino humor

Korina Sanchez makes new revelations about marriage to Mar Roxas

Korina Sanchez recalls considering a prenuptial agreement before marrying Mar Roxas

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

and as a nation, we can continue to hope,” Apl said. “I am singing this song for myself also to help me overcome life’s challenges.” Completing the EP is “Pinoy United,” featuring Datu Khomeini, known as the King of Moro Songs. Inspired by the peace process and Mindanao’s rich cultural heritage, the track champions unity and gives voice to the southern Philippines. “My music always reflects who I am, with Filipino words, culture, and values incorporated into it,” he said. “This EP is really about love, peace, and hope for the Filipino people.” PPP (Power to the Pilipino People) is now available on major streaming platforms worldwide. Apl.de.Ap (left) teams up with Bamboo on ‘Why,’ a track from his first solo EP that addresses frustration with national problems while calling for integrity and public accountability

‘Sanxingdui: Future Past’ reaches Chinese cinemas after a two-year production, but weak advance sales test whether audiences are ready to pay for a feature created entirely with AI

Nearly 100 people spent more than two years making the film, which cost over 10 million yuan ($1.5 million), Bona said. But Iris Yang, who attended a free preview on Thursday, said she would not have paid for a ticket given the film’s quality. “If AI generation can match the theatrical experience of Avatar, I think I would be willing to pay for it,” Yang said, referring to the US franchise known for its animation. AI-generated video has gained popularity in the world’s secondlargest economy. On Douyin, China’s equivalent of TikTok, AIgenerated short dramas garnered more than 200 billion views in September alone. But audiences will not necessarily pay to watch AI-made films in cinemas, independent AI director Zhang Jun told AFP. Online, Chinese social media users also expressed doubts about AI movies’ theatrical prospects. “If it’s free to watch on streaming platforms, it could become legendary. But paying to watch? People are not going to accept it at this stage,” one Weibo user commented. In Hollywood, AI’s rise has sparked fears of job losses among film workers. An AI-generated sci-fi feature, Gods Don’t Give Gifts, is scheduled for US release on Dec. 4. Meanwhile, virtual Hollywood actor Tilly Norwood, whose viral interviews have fueled concerns about job security, is set to star in an upcoming movie called Misaligned. AFP

LIFE

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer JASPER VALDEZ, Writer

Finding my island home in paradise in Coron Guests scan the calm seas of Coron during a dugong watching excursion, hoping for a glimpse of the gentle sea cow in its natural habitat

The resort offers trips to nearby islands, including Diatoy, where guests can enjoy a hearty boodle fight spread on the beach

Through its Cheers for Chairs sustainability program, Discovery Coron helps provide classroom chairs to students from different schools in the community

General manager Joegil Magtanggol Escobar has been named the Philippines’ Best General Manager for two consecutive years, and his philosophy explains a lot. He believes that worldclass luxury and deep-rooted sustainability are not just compatible but essential partners. Under his leadership, about 70 percent of the staff come from Palawan, and the resort buys directly from local farmers through programs like Bili ng Ani. Escobar gives credit to the GEMs, the Guest Experience Makers, for creating meaningful stays, and he is right. The island days themselves were unforgettable. Each morning began with a sunrise service on my room’s balcony, a quiet moment of having coffee before heading to Firefish Restaurant for a full breakfast. It set the tone for everything that followed. One day, we took a boat to Diatoy Island for an island lunch and snorkeling. We had a boodle fight lunch on the beach, then slipped into water so clear it felt like swimming through glass. On another day, we went to Calauit Bay for a dugong watch. We waited patiently, and then we saw

Dee-tails

Ardee de los Angeles

HAVE stayed at many resorts over the years, but I never really knew what it felt like to have an island home until I visited Discovery Coron. This resort sits on Dimakya Island in northern Palawan, and it offers more than just a beautiful place to sleep. It offers a sense of belonging. That feeling does not happen by accident. It comes from years of caring for the environment and for the people who live nearby. Discovery Coron takes sustainability seriously. The resort has received the ASEAN Green Hotel Award twice, most recently in 2026, for the way it protects the island. Through its EcoConserve Program, different teams handle conservation work. The GarMa Task Force, Green Thumb, Sea Guardians, and FEW Champs all play a role in rebuilding and protecting the environment. Single-use plastics are gone. Solar panels help power the property. The house reef, which is home to the endangered Napoleon wrasse,

one. A real dugong, grazing on the seagrass, unhurried and peaceful. It was a reminder of why all this conservation work matters. I felt that meaning personally through two staff members, Noel and Eunice. Noel, who also picked us up from the airport, guided us through the house reef and even assisted us on our underwater adventures. He seemed to be everywhere, not because he had to be, but because he genuinely wanted us to enjoy the island. Eunice, the manager from the front office, greeted us every morning with a warmth that felt less like hotel hospitality and more like family. They took care of us, not as guests, but as family. On my last evening, I stood on the beach watching the sunset and the fruit bats flying across the orange sky. That was when I understood what Discovery Coron had given me. The conservation work, the chairs for schoolchildren, the leadership of Escobar, and the kindness of the staff, including Noel and Eunice, all added up to one simple feeling. I was not a visitor. I was home.

Breakfast at Discovery Coron serves guests a quiet start to the day before exploring Dimakya Island

supports coral propagation. The resort also runs a farm called Taranuman (a local Cuyonon term) where kitchen waste becomes fertilizer, and the harvest goes back to the table. This is sustainability you can actually see and taste. What really made me feel at home was how Discovery Coron treats its community. The Cheers for Chairs program donates classroom chairs to local elementary schools. So far, the initiative has provided more than 1,000 chairs and tables to students in nearby barangays. This is not charity from far away. This is investing in neighbors.

Discovery Coron’s management team joins members of the media for a group photo after a sumptuous dinner

Enchanted Kingdom celebrates 31 years of magic with Fiesta ng Saribuhay

Guests were welcomed with Filipino dances at the entrance and Victoria Park

ENCHANTED Kingdom marked its 31st anniversary on Oct. 17 with Fiesta ng Saribuhay, a celebration of Philippine culture, people, and biodiversity. The homegrown theme park featured local festivities, seasonal entertainment, in-park decorations, and immersive experiences showcasing Filipino traditions, talent, community spirit, and natural heritage. “Celebrating 31 magical years is not just a milestone for EK. It is also a celebration for the Filipinos who have been an integral part of our story for the past three decades,” said Nico R. Mamon, EK’s 31st Anniversary chairman. The celebration also paid tribute to the Philippine eagle

Enchanted Kingdom’s Fiesta ng Saribuhay features a celebration of Philippine culture, people, and biodiversity marking the theme park’s 31st anniversary

Singer-songwriter Dionela performs at Enchanted Kingdom’s 31st anniversary concert as part of Fiesta ng Saribuhay

P-pop group Xonara takes part at the anniversary celebration of Enchanted Kingdom

through the anniversary song Lipad, which celebrates Filipino values of “Lakas, Talino, at Katatagan.” Enhancements to AGILA The EKsperience: Saribuhay included a new entry experience, the Ang Kwento ng Agila walkthrough about the Philippine eagle, and Pugad, a concept store. Festivities opened with Filipino dances at the entrance and Victoria Park. EK Storyverse characters and Saribuhay Village characters also joined the Fiesta ng Saribuhay Anniversary Parade. The Fiesta ng Saribuhay Concert at Spaceport Grounds featured Fyne, Prince Liu, Sacred Red, Xonara, and Dionela. Kingsmen performed a remix of Saribuhay, while SMS performed Lipad. Both tracks are available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music. The celebration ended with Lipad ng Agila: A Pyromusical Fiesta, featuring fireworks and an aerial depiction of the Philippine eagle. The anniversary was copresented by Coca-Cola, Universal Music Group Philippines, and One Platinum Corporation, with support from brand and tenant partners. For updates, visit www. enchantedkingdom.ph or the park’s official social media accounts.