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“We humbly urge the concerned agencies to facilitate the prompt processing and release of the pending subsidies and voucher program assistance,” the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) and the CBCP-Episcopal Commission on Catholic Education (ECCE) said in a joint statement on Friday.

The groups noted that among the schools affected are “small and financially vulnerable institutions”, which consider the government subsidies and voucher program assistance essential in sustaining their operations amid rising electricity prices.

“Many of these schools serve low-income communities and continue to rely heavily on government assistance programs in order to keep education accessible, maintain personnel, and meet operational obligations,” the groups said in a statement on Friday.

“The continued delay has placed serious strain on school finances at a time when institutions are already preparing for the next academic year,” they added.

The pending subsidies also impact the timely payment of salaries to teaching and non-teaching staff, the settlement of utilities and contractual obligations, and the procurement of instructional materials.

“The financial assistance of the government is a strong lifeline that enables them to continue participating in the shared national responsibility of delivering education,” the groups said.

Data from the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) showed that over 3,600 institutions nationwide are ESC-participating schools.

Meanwhile, over 4,500 schools are included in the SHS-VP Alphalist.

The Department of Education (DepEd) earlier this month announced the expansion of private school subsidies under the Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (E-GASTPE) program.

The expansion is set to benefit over 2.4 million financially challenged learners enrolled in private schools. Of which, around 990,000 junior high school students will be covered under the ESC program, while 1.47 million SHS students will benefit from the SHS-VP.— Almira Louise S. Martinez

Mallgoers and fans alike can immerse themselves in a series of interactive and visually stunning installations inspired by beloved Star Wars characters and stories. Guests can step into the story through special photo spots, including dynamic, character-inspired backdrops designed for unforgettable snapshots.

Adding to the excitement, fans can live out their own galactic adventures with themed photo opportunities, such as imagining themselves riding a speeder bike or standing alongside a towering AT-ST. These setups offer a special way to experience the thrill of Star Wars up close.

Collectors and enthusiasts can also shop limited-edition merchandise and fan-favorite items at participating retailers, including Disney Store by SM, Filbars, Geek PH, Miniso, The SM Store, and Toy Kingdom making it the perfect opportunity to bring home Star Wars-themed collectibles.

Star Wars fan cosplayers will also grace the attraction on May 16-17 and May 23-24 for fan gatherings and a lightsaber choreography tutorial to make weekends more special.

Meanwhile, the event builds anticipation for the upcoming theatrical release of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, opening exclusively in cinemas on May 20, 2026. The film follows legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu as they embark on their most thrilling mission yet. Set in a galaxy where the evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered, the story unfolds as the New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for.

Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Pedro Pascal and Sigourney Weaver, the film is produced by industry veterans Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, and Ian Bryce, with a score by Ludwig Göransson.

Don’t miss Star Wars Most Wanted at your most loved mall, SM North EDSA, part of SM Fandom’s exciting lineup of activities this year. Be part of an epic celebration where every shared moment lets you Gala To The Max with a maxed-out experience at SM Supermalls.

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In a statement released Friday, Google said that amid the rapid advancement of AI, the company is continuously upgrading its generative AI Search features, such as AI Mode and AI Overviews, to help users connect more easily with authentic voices and explore useful information across the web.

“Google is continuing to improve how it shows links in its AI Search features and developing new ways to help users find the sources, brands, and websites they value,” the company said.

Among the five new updates to its AI Search is a feature that suggests related articles and in-depth analyses at the end of AI-generated responses to help users further explore a topic.

Google also introduced a feature that highlights links from users’ news subscriptions in AI Mode and AI Overviews, allowing easier access to trusted and subscribed sources.

Another update includes previews of discussions from social media platforms, public forums, and other firsthand sources to help users access practical advice and experiences shared by other people. Google said these previews may also include additional context such as a creator’s name, handle, or online community to help users decide which discussions they want to explore further.

The company also said that a new update allows users to see more links directly within AI-generated responses, making it easier to immediately access relevant websites while reading Search summaries.

Google likewise introduced a website preview feature on desktop that shows information such as a webpage title or website name when users hover over inline links before clicking them.

The feature aims to help users better understand where a link leads and make them more confident in visiting helpful websites.

The tech giant said that by improving the visibility and helpfulness of links and showcasing original voices, its AI in Search helps users discover the web and connect directly to relevant sources and creators.

“Google is committed to continuing to test, learn, and improve these features based on what works best for users,” it said.— Edg Adrian A. Eva

“Employers are actually expecting that people come in ready to work, and micro-credentials help with that,” Coursera Global Head of Enterprise Anthony Salcito told reporters during a panel interview on Friday.

“A micro-credential signals that employees not only demonstrate the skill, but they’re learning throughout their life to align with the culture of work that they’re bringing in,” he added.

The demand for graduates equipped with industry-aligned micro-credentials can be seen in the platform’s Micro-Credentials Impact Report 2026.

Data from the report showed that 96% of Filipino employers hired candidates with more than three micro-credentials last year, and 89% are willing to offer higher starting salaries to micro-credentialed graduates.

Employers added that candidates with micro-credentials were also able to progress faster in hiring pipelines (77%), and performed better during their first year of employment (90%), compared to those who didn’t have them.

On the learners’ side, 85% of Filipino graduates were able to secure a role aligned to their field within 12 months of acquiring a micro-credential. While 83% said that it has helped improve their interview performance.

“Our data shows in the impact report on micro-credentials that we’re sharing is that employers are willing to pay and recognize the value of the differentiation,” Mr. Salcito said.

“Certainly this is a huge ticket for a candidate looking for jobs, not only to get a better-paying job, but obviously to differentiate themselves from other candidates,” he added.

The Philippines has the highest number of registered learners on Coursera at 3.3 million, with 20% year-over-year (YoY) growth.

Among the popular course topics among Filipinos are data, project management, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and sustainable development goals.

GenAI courses also revealed a significant demand, with 2.3 million enrollments, up from 75,000 last year. The platform noted that one enrollment happens every five minutes in GenAI courses, which is faster than one enrollment every nine minutes, a year earlier.

As of March 2026, course enrollments in the country were the highest within the region, at 6.8 million. It currently has partnerships with 15 educational institutions nationwide, including iPeople Inc., University of the Philippines, and University of Santo Tomas.— Almira Louise S. Martinez

DBP President and CEO Michael O. de Jesus said the Bank was hailed as the top performing government-owned and -controlled corporation (GOCC) during the recent Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) Awards and the “Top Community-Centric Company” during the Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) Awards.

“It is truly humbling for DBP to be recognized for its corporate governance practices and sustainability efforts anchored with the ideals of the Marcos Administration and geared towards advancing the welfare of the Filipino people,” de Jesus said.

DBP is the ninth largest bank in the country with total assets of P1.041 trillion, primarily providing funding assistance to projects in four economic sectors — infrastructure and logistics; micro, small and medium enterprises; social services and community services; and the environment.

GCG AWARD

De Jesus said DBP was the top ranked GOCC in the GCG 2024 Corporate Governance Scorecard (CGS) which evaluates GOCCs based on international governance standards, obtaining a final CGS score of 104.17%, a sharp rise from the 102.67% it garnered from the previous CGS.

GCG is the primary central policy-making and regulatory body of GOCCs that evaluates corporate governance standards and practices. Its CGS serves as an instrument to assess the corporate governance initiatives and practices of GOCCs using a methodology benchmarked against the Corporate Governance principles of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard.

ACES AWARD

Organized by Malaysian-based MORS Group, the ACES Awards recognized industry leaders in Asia that have successfully integrated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their operations.

De Jesus noted that this is the third consecutive win of DBP in the ACES awards, this time under the Corporate Sustainability category for its reforestation program with the Mindanao State University-Buug campus and its participation in the Department of Agriculture’s Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program.

“These accolades are a testament to DBP’s tireless pursuit of exemplary public service, ably fulfilling its developmental mandate and supporting the National Government’s thrust of promoting progress today and in the years ahead,” de Jesus said.

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Perfect for delivery riders, motorcycle drivers, commuters, field workers, gamers, and users constantly outdoors, the vivo Y31d is designed to survive long days, rough conditions, and nonstop use without missing a beat.

During the pre-order period, customers can enjoy these introductory prices:

• 6GB + 128GB – Php 12,999 
• 6GB + 256GB – Php 15,999 
• 8GB + 256GB – Php 17,999 

Customers who pre-order will also receive a 6-month broken screen insurance package. Meanwhile, buyers of the 256GB variants can get an additional free vivo backpack worth Php 1,085.

Available in Starlight Grey and Glow White, the vivo Y31d combines style, toughness, and everyday practicality in one smartphone.

8 features you should know about the vivo Y31d

1. 7200mAh BlueVolt Battery + 44W FlashCharge. Enjoy up to two days of battery life on a single charge. The vivo Y31d also supports reverse charging and is designed to maintain battery health for up to six years. 
2. IP68 and IP69 Dust and Water Resistance. Built for unpredictable weather and outdoor work, the device features strong water and dust protection plus one-tap water ejection for added convenience. 
3. Military-Grade Durability. The vivo Y31d earned SGS Five-Star Drop Resistance and Military-Grade Shock Resistance certifications after surviving repeated drops and even car roll-over tests without a case. 
4. 400% Volume Stereo Speakers. Experience louder and clearer audio with stereo speakers enhanced by HyperSense Game Sound mode for immersive gaming and entertainment. 
5. 6.75-inch 120Hz Dotch Display. Scroll, watch, and play smoothly with a high refresh rate display that reaches up to 1250 nits brightness for better outdoor visibility. 
6. Snapdragon 6s Gen2 Processor. Powered by a processor with over 540,000 AnTuTu benchmark score, the vivo Y31d delivers stable gaming and multitasking performance with Game Boost mode and bypass charging support. 
7. 50MP HD Wide-Angle Camera. Capture clearer everyday shots and take photos underwater with the device’s dedicated underwater photography feature. 
8. OriginOS 6 Smart Features. The vivo Y31d includes practical tools like Origin Island, vivo DocMaster, and Face Unlock with Helmet On for easier everyday use. 

The vivo Y31d is now available for pre-order at vivo concept stores, kiosks, and authorized dealers nationwide until May 15.

vivo set out to prove exactly that during its vivo V70 Photography Masterclass on April 30, 2025, where celebrated Filipino fashion photographer BJ Pascual demonstrated how the smartphone’s ZEISS co-engineered camera system uses five distinct focal lengths to produce cinematic portraits, editorial-style framing, and striking close-up shots all within a single device.

As lighting shifted and compositions changed throughout the live shoot, attendees witnessed how the vivo V70 transformed everyday mobile photography into a more immersive and expressive creative experience.

ZEISS Multifocal Portrait: 85mm and 100mm

BJ explained how different focal lengths create different looks. 

”The 85mm is considered a classic portrait lens. It gives a natural perspective with slight compression, which flatters the face.The 100mm, on the other hand, is more compressed. It’s perfect for close-ups because it isolates the subject and highlights details without distortion,” he said.

During the on-site shoot, BJ used both focal lengths to capture stunning images of Nicole Cordoves, demonstrating the cinematic portrait effect of the vivo V70, which offers both texture and professional charm.

He paired the portrait shot with ZEISS Style Bokeh using the ZEISS Sonnar style with 85mm that gives soft flares and a cinematic blue-yellow tone, while 100mm is the ZEISS Planar style for a softer, more refined look with a slightly desaturated tone.

AI Stage Mode: From environment to detail

”Originally, this feature was designed for concerts and festivals, situations where your subject is far away and moving. But creatively, we can use that same capability for editorial photography,” BJ shared

1x main camera focal length — Equipped with a 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera, the vivo V70 naturally renders the relationship between the subject and its surroundings, delivering precise, true-to-life expression under real lighting and spatial conditions. The result is imagery that boasts both narrative depth and visual balance, making it the go-to choice for environmental portraits and daily life documentation.

3x mid-telephoto focal length — With ZEISS optics and advanced algorithmic optimization, this focal length strikes a sophisticated balance between subject prominence and background separation. It preserves a professional composition aesthetic while retaining natural spatial depth, empowering users to capture more stylish, expressive street portraits and creative frames with ease.

10x super telephoto capability — Combined with AI image enhancement and Stage Mode optimization, the vivo V70 ensures stable, clear capture of facial expressions and fine details, even when shooting at long distances or in complex lighting environments. Whether it’s stage photography, event coverage, or distant scene capture, this super telephoto capability consistently delivers high-quality, professional-grade results.

During BJ’s live demonstration, the vivo V70 went beyond being just a photography tool to showcase remarkable practical value. From seamlessly switching between the 85mm and 100mm portrait focal lengths to experimenting with multi-focal compositions of AI Stage Mode across 1x to 10x zoom, the device’s operation was intuitive and responsive, letting the photographer focus fully on crafting compositions and mastering lighting to bring his creative vision to life.Ready to experience the vivo V70’s exceptional imaging capabilities for yourself? Get your vivo V70 now at vivo stores nationwide or online via the official vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

The partnership is officially announced today, but Denise shared an early track with the indie powerhouse last month titled “2GOOD4U” that earned praise from Billboard, VIBE, Okayplayer, Sweety High, and many more. The single also landed on more than two dozen new music Friday playlist placements from Spotify, Audiomack, Apple Music, and more.

Denise Julia caught attention in 2022 with her song “NVMD” which helped solidify her as a rising star within the global music landscape. The single accumulated 200M streams on Spotify and reached the Top 20 of Spotify’s Global Viral chart. She continued her rise in 2023 when she collaborated with her now labelmate–the RIAA certified rapper P-Lo–for their single “B.A.D.” off her debut EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1). The single peaked at #7 on Spotify Philippines, entered the Top 50 of Spotify’s Global Viral Chart, and reached #4 on the Billboard Philippines Hot 100. She has since followed up with Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2) and performed the title track on On The Radar. 

Born and raised in the Philippines, Denise Julia is known for her smooth R&B sound and emotionally resonant songwriting because she was heavily influenced by early 2000s R&B and pop. She first captured widespread attention through viral covers and original releases on TikTok before breaking out globally. Denise Julia quickly became the most-streamed Filipina artist on Spotify for three consecutive months and remains one of the country’s top-streamed acts, with nearly 2 million monthly listeners. 

ABOUT DENISE JULIA: Denise Julia is a multifaceted singer, songwriter, and producer, born, raised and based in the Philippines. Denise began singing and writing songs at the age of 13, and was heavily inspired by the R&B and Pop sounds of the 2000s that played non-stop in her childhood home television. After a string of music releases and cover videos that garnered millions of views on Tik Tok, Denise caught the world’s attention with her viral song “NVMD”. The song catapulted her into the spotlight, solidifying her as a rising star in today’s global music landscape. “NVMD” is the fastest and only OPM (Original Philippine Music) song by a Filipina to reach 200M streams on Spotify and it reached the Top 20 of Spotify’s Global Viral chart. In October 2023, Denise collaborated with Filipino-American producer and rapper P-Lo for her single “B.A.D.”, off her debut mini-album, ‘Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1)’. The single soared into Spotify Philippines Top 10 (peaking at #7), reached the Top 50 of Spotify’s Global Viral Chart, and took over the Billboard Philippines Hot 100 Chart peaking at #4. She was the most listened to Filipina on Spotify for 3 consecutive months following the release of her debut mini-album, and is currently still one of the most streamed Filipinas in the country with over 3M monthly Spotify listeners. She was selected as one of Spotify’s RADAR artists of 2024. Denise’s debut mini-album, ‘Sweet Nothings (Chapter 1),’ released in early November of 2023, and was on multiple end of the year, album of the year lists including Billboard Philippines, Complex Philippines and “B.A.D” is nominated for Best R&B Song at the 2024 Philippines AWIT Awards, Best R&B Video, Best Collaboration and Music Video of the Year at the 2024 MYX Music Awards.

Manila, Philippines – Filipino singer-songwriter Dom Guyot teams up with Filipina femcee Zae for “manloloko,” a summer-ready bop that blends infectious rhythms with confrontational verses. The track doubles as a call for listeners to reclaim their voice and refuse manipulation in all forms.

Lyrically speaking, “manloloko” is about exposing deception and standing firm against people who exploit others for personal gain—be it your loved ones, friends, or the folks in power. Through unfiltered storytelling and fierce vocal performances, Dom and Zae flip the narrative on men who believe they can deceive without consequences.

“I wanted a track that feels like a big FU to people who have used me in the past,” admits the R&B-pop newcomer. “It’s like a sequel to Kabit, but this time I’m taking my power back and giving it a much more positive and empowering message and a very forward writing style instead of the satirical style Kabit had.”

While in the process of developing the track, Dom thought of recruiting acclaimed rapper Zae to hop on the beat, as her distinct voice is the right fit for the material. Being a fan of Zae’s work, he hit her up on socials in July of last year, and the rest, as they say, is history. 

“While making the song, I knew it needed a female perspective, as the girls and the gays are statistically almost always victimized by men who can’t keep it in their pants,” Dom reveals. “And Zae just felt like the perfect fit. Her voice, her writing style, her demeanor. We connected instantly. The vibes were there from the jump, and that mutual respect and admiration really shaped what the track ended up becoming.”

With each artist contributing their own lyrical and sonic identity to create a cohesive whole, “manloloko” ends up being a fun jam that brims with so much chemistry and flavor. As Dom puts it, “We both handled our parts. Everything I sang, including the hook, came from me. Everything Zae spit was fully hers. But we bounced off each other so naturally that the song just clicked.”

Sonically, “manloloko” takes inspiration from Brazilian funk and Afrobeats while retaining a contemporary pop-rap sound that mirrors the song’s confidence. Produced with emphasis on rhythm and attitude, the track delivers moments of catharsis on the dance floor.

A standout moment in the release comes through its conversational bridge, where Dom and Zae reject conflict and unite in solidarity against manipulation and misogyny. The exciting part mentioned reinforces the bigger picture: empowerment grows stronger through collective understanding, honest, and self-respect. 

“Society loves to crucify the gays and girls for the simplest things yet let straight men get away with everything,” Dom explains. “So that moment of solidarity felt important. It turned the song into something bigger than just a cheating story. It became standing up for each other and not taking any L’s from men.”

Dom Guyot’s “manloloko” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video, to be released at 6pm today. MV link here.

Marking their much-awaited homecoming, BINI returns to the “ASAP” stage after their historic Coachella stint, joining the explosive opening number featuring Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Erik Santos, Angeline Quinto, Robi Domingo, Darren, Maymay Entrata, Kyle Echarri, Alexa Ilacad, Kai Montinola, Carmelle Collado, AC Bonifacio, Sofronio Vasquez, Jona, Klarisse De Guzman, Jason Dy, JM Dela Cerna, Marielle Montellano, Jeremy Glinoga, and Khimo Gumatay, with MNRVS Ignite, Legit Status, and G-Force. Meanwhile, the opening party intensifies as they deliver a heartfelt debut of the “ASAP XP” theme song.

Get hyped up from a high-energy mini concert from Bamboo with SPI.

Tune in for another outstanding number of new-gen divas, Alexa, Kai, Esang De Torres, Carmelle, and Elha Nympha, together with the power diva Angeline.

Join Zsa Zsa as she celebrates her special day with a powerful birthday performance together with Alexa, Kai, Esang, Elha, and Carmelle.

Serving extra love and joy to the party are Kapamilya love teams Kai and Kyle, JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith, Alexa and Gelo Rivera, and Francine Diaz and Seth Fedalin.

Audiences are in for a treat as Regine Velasquez, Marko Rudio, JM Yosures, Khimo, and Reiven Umali take the stage with a dynamic performance. Also, catch the inspiring Mother’s Day performance from Regine, Zsa Zsa, Angeline, and Kyla.

Serving as the hosts this weekend are Martin, Robi, Darren, Kyle, and Alexa.

Catch the country’s longest-running and award-winning musical variety show, “ASAP XP,” on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2.

Kapamilyas can also watch “ASAP” on Kapamilya Online Live, Jeepney TV, A2Z, iWant, and TFC.

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Yema Cake is soft, fluffy, and delicious. This Filipino sponge cake with custard frosting and shredded cheese is the perfect dessert for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you need a special sweet treat. What is Yema Yema is a classic Filipino candy made from a mixture of milk and egg yolks cooked over low heat until…

The post Yema Cake appeared first on Kawaling Pinoy.

Cocido-style Nilaga is a soul-warming soup perfect for cold weather. Made with tender beef shanks, smoky sausage, saba bananas, and vegetables, it makes a hearty, tasty meal the whole family will love. I was initially going to call this recipe cocido, but that would have been a bit of a stretch as the traditional Spanish…

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Bakery-style Calamansi Bars are the ultimate sweet-and-tart treat, featuring a bright, zesty citrus filling baked into a tender,  buttery shortbread crust. If you love lemon bars, you need this tropical twist in your life. Calamansi are hard to come by and rarely available at the Asian grocery stores I frequent, so when I do come…

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Yema Bread Rolls are a bakery favorite for good reason. They're soft, fluffy, and delicious with creamy egg custard filling. Enjoy for breakfast, as a midday snack, or anytime you need a sweet treat. If you're looking for a great bread recipe, these yema rolls will be a favorite! The dough yields soft, delicate buns…

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Looking for the ultimate refreshing Filipino dessert? This creamy Buko Sago Jelly Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make and the perfect treat for potlucks, special occasions, or a hot day. The weather is beginning to heat up here in Texas, and I know our friends in the Philippines are also experiencing the…

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Yema balls are popular Filipino candy made from a heavenly blend of egg yolk and condensed milk. These bite-sized sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and make great holiday gifts. Yema is a popular Filipino sweets made of egg yolks, condensed milk, and sugar. The mixture is cooked until thick, shaped into…

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In a regulatory filing released Tuesday, the Ayala-led energy company said attributable net income rose to P2.92 billion in the January-to-March period from P1.95 billion a year earlier.

Revenue from sale of electricity climbed 42.2% to P10.74 billion from P7.55 billion previously, driven by higher revenues from power supply contracts and power generation and trading activities.

Total attributable renewable energy output rose 32% year on year to 2,230 gigawatt-hours (GWh), while Philippine renewable energy generation increased 29% to 636 GWh due mainly to the recovery of operations in Ilocos Norte as the Pagudpud and Capa wind farms returned to near-full operations.

ACEN said year-on-year results were “significantly influenced by several material, largely non-cash, one-off items.”

Among the key contributors to earnings was the Energy Regulatory Commission’s approval of price adjustments for ACEN’s baseload and mid-merit power supply agreements with Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), allowing the recovery of incremental fuel costs linked to the 2022-2023 coal price surge.

“The approval resulted in a significant positive pre-tax impact on earnings in the period, partially reversing prior margin pressure from elevated fuel costs,” the company said.

The company also benefited from the acquisition of the remaining 50% stake in Unlimited Renewables Holdings B.V. (URH), which resulted in ACEN gaining full ownership of its India platform.

“The transaction generated a gain from remeasurement of the previously held interest and recognition of goodwill, partly offset by the write-off of uncollected guarantee fees from prior years,” ACEN said.

However, ACEN also booked a provision related to developments in Vietnam after state-owned utility Vietnam Electricity (EVN) applied revised payment practices for certain renewable energy projects.

The company said the provision “reflects management’s best estimate of the adverse financial impact based on available information as of the reporting date, and may increase or decrease depending on the final outcome of discussions with EVN.”

ACEN said it had recognized a provision of P1.19 billion to reflect the potential downside impact from reduced future cash flows arising from developments in Vietnam.

The company likewise said goodwill arising from the consolidation of Vietnam Wind Energy Limited Group “was fully impaired in the same period due to prevailing economic and regulatory conditions in Vietnam, resulting in a net negative earnings impact.”

“This volatility creates both urgency and opportunity. Our capital program remains intact, our pipeline continues to advance and our focus on execution will help ensure delivery of long-term, sustainable returns for our shareholders,” ACEN President and Chief Executive Officer Eric T. Francia said.

As of March 31, ACEN had 7,083 megawatts (MW) of attributable renewable energy capacity in operation and under construction. Of the total, 4,293 MW were operational while 2,790 MW were under construction.

The company said its India platform now includes a fully owned 1,059-megawatt direct current diversified portfolio and “a pipeline of nearly 7 GW of renewable energy projects across India,” reinforcing its long-term expansion plans in the market.

“Looking ahead, our priorities remain clear — maximizing output from operating assets, maintaining momentum across our construction pipeline, and managing costs with discipline,” ACEN Group Chief Finance Officer and Chief Strategy Officer Jonathan Back said.

In March, ACEN’s Bijapur Wind project in Karnataka, India secured a 7.517-billion Indian rupee green term loan from Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. to partially fund the construction of the project’s 100-MW Phase 1.

The company also disclosed plans to support the development of a 35-MW battery energy storage system project in Zambales through up to P850 million in short-term financing for subsidiary Palauig Solar 1, Inc.

ACEN earlier confirmed a BusinessWorld report stating that its 2026 capital expenditures (capex) could exceed P80 billion, although the quarterly filing did not disclose a final capex target for the year.

On Tuesday, shares in ACEN fell 1.47% or five centavos to close at P3.34 apiece. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera

“We are definitely bidding it out this year… We will likely bid it out in the third quarter and award it in the fourth quarter,” Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John R. Batan said on the sidelines of the Luzon Economic Corridor Reception on Monday.

Mr. Batan said the preliminary cost of the contract is P9.5 billion but added that this is still pending approval from the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC).

“Until it is approved by the ICC, we do not have the final project cost yet, but it’s around that much,” he added.

AF Payments, Inc., the consortium behind the Beep card system, is the current concessionaire for the automated fare collection system. Its contract will expire in December 2027.

Last week, the department held a market-sounding activity for the PAFCS concession under the public-private partnership program, drawing participation from over 50 major local and international firms.

“We are seeing huge interest. GCash was there, Maya was there. The big names, both local and international,” Mr. Batan said.

Aside from Philippine firms, companies from Japan, China, Singapore, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Turkey, Pakistan, the US, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden and Finland also joined the activity.

The PAFCS project aims to establish an interoperable and secure fare collection system covering rail, bus, and future transport modes in the country.

The project includes the development, operation and maintenance of the Central Transit Acquirer System and Central Clearing House, covering existing and future rail lines as well as road-based transport systems.

Designed to support multiple fare media types, the system is also expected to encourage more financial institutions to enter the transit payments space.

“The key difference is the current concessionaire that we are bidding out is what we call an open system, so any card issuer, for example, can participate, as opposed to right now where we can only use a Beep card in the rail lines,” Mr. Batan said.

“In this new concession, it will be open standard whether you’re using Beep, Mastercard, Visa, QR code, or smart devices. All of these form factors, all of different issuers, can now work in the fare collection system,” he added.

Nigel Paul C. Villarete, a senior adviser on public-private partnerships at Libra Konsult, Inc., said it is high time for the Philippines to adopt more advanced automated payment systems that deduct the correct fare based on where commuters board and disembark, and are also interoperable.

“For years, I have been hoping we will have those systems used in Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore where a single card pay for everything including transportation,” he said in a Viber message. 

“Ultimately, we can do this for almost everything. In fact, many of us already use our credit and debit cards for many things. It is just a matter of time before we fuse all these into a single payment system for all,” he said. “I hope they will reach a stage where we can integrate this with our cellular phone network. That may be the next step, where you do not even need a card. You simply tap your phone regardless of what transaction you are doing.” — Justine Irish D. Tabile

THE LUZON Economic Corridor (LEC) will help make the Philippines more resilient to external shocks by generating more jobs and attracting greater foreign investment interest, the Finance department said.

“The LEC is about doing all the work to provide those jobs. We build the infrastructure, the private sector comes in, invests in business, gives jobs to Filipinos,” Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said on the sidelines of the LEC Reception on Monday.

Mr. Go said creating “meaningful” jobs is key to building a sustainable and shock-resistant economy, as steady incomes would allow households to continue spending despite external headwinds.

“We need everybody to have meaningful jobs. That is how you really build a sustainable economy,” he said. “Because when everybody has meaningful jobs, it does not matter what the shocks are. Life can go on because people have a good source of income.”

The Philippine economy grew by a weaker-than-expected 2.8% in the first quarter amid lingering effects of last year’s corruption scandal and soaring fuel prices due to the Middle East conflict.

The weaker growth came as household final consumption expenditure — a key driver of the economy — slowed to 3% from 5.28% a year earlier and 3.8% in the previous quarter.

Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Director for the Philippines Andrew Jeffries said the corridor accounts for a large share of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“In general, 60% of the whole country’s GDP is more or less within this corridor… So, I guess the infrastructure needs are very large. And so, some of our ongoing projects are supporting all of that,” he told reporters.

“Of course, because it’s such a large part of the whole Philippine GDP, it’s a very important corridor to keep developing. And… there are some transportation and other bottlenecks that need to be addressed.”

The ADB is supporting several infrastructure projects in the region, including the North-South Commuter Railway and Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge. It also has a loan facility funding detailed engineering designs for future rail projects.

The LEC reception was held ahead of the steering committee meeting and the official launch of the LEC Partners Initiative.

Asked for his expectations, Mr. Go said the steering committee meeting will serve as an avenue to push LEC projects forward.

“The top projects will always be the infrastructure. So, it is always going to be the ports, and the railway that connects the ports, and then the airport — how the airports interconnect with those railways to create better logistics within the corridor,” he said.

Other infrastructure projects under the LEC initiative are the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway and the modernization of ports and airports within the corridor.

“The interest in our country has never been better. So many companies are so interested in the Philippines. The LEC is one of the catalysts to our development,” Mr. Go said.

On Monday, he said the LEC partnership has been expanded to include Australia, Denmark, France, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

“Before we kept talking about the LEC, there were only three of us. Now, there are 10. So, interest in the country is at its peak.”

The LEC is a trilateral agreement aimed at improving connectivity across Luzon’s key economic areas, particularly Subic Bay, Clark, Metro Manila, and Batangas. Under the initiative, partner countries provide technical assistance, financing, and facilitate private sector investment.

However, US Ambassador and Department of State’s Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs Senior Advisor Heather Variava said building infrastructure within the corridor alone is not enough.

“We must streamline complex regulatory structures to make it easier for businesses both in the Philippines and internationally to invest in the Philippines with confidence,” she said.

“This initiative does not only create prosperity here in the Philippines; it opens up opportunities for American and like-minded businesses as well.”

She said the government should also continue engaging the private sector and encourage businesses to participate in the LEC initiative.

“The success of the LEC depends on partnerships like the ones we are building today, and together we can create lasting prosperity, strengthen our economic ties, and demonstrate the power of like-minded nations working towards a common goal.”

In a report published on Monday, Oxford Economics slashed its Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast to 3.5% from its already downgraded 4.6% estimate. Before the war, it expected the economy to expand by 5.5%.

If realized, this would mark the economy’s worst performance since 2020, when it contracted by 9.5%. Counting out the pandemic, it would be the slowest growth in 17 years or since 1.4% in 2009.

This would also mean that the government will miss its GDP growth target for a fourth straight year, as it sees the economy expanding between 5% and 6% in 2026. The Philippine economy grew by 4.4% in 2025 — a post-pandemic low as a graft scandal involving government infrastructure projects dragged public spending.

“The largest downgrade since the start of the war has so far been the Philippines after the recent Q1 GDP release, which was poorer than expected,” Oxford Economics Lead Economist Maya Senussi said.

GDP growth was at 2.8% in the first quarter, slowing further from 3% in the fourth quarter and 5.4% in the same period last year. This was likewise slower than the 3.4% median estimate in a BusinessWorld poll of 21 economists.

Ms. Senussi said the weak growth was due to already subdued consumer spending and the weak investment climate in the country prior to the Middle East war.

“We expect this softness to continue, as we believe poor consumer sentiment and materially higher prices will weigh on private spending,” she added. “Limited fiscal space constraints the extent of budgetary support.”

For his part, BDO Capital and Investment Corp. President Eduardo V. Francisco said on Money Talks with Cathy Yang on One News on Tuesday that Philippine GDP growth could slow to 2.2% this year due to rising price pressures and investment woes.

“We’re seeing consumption spending go down, even for the very important day-to-day goods, with rice and corn prices I think going up 10-20%. That is bad, and we hope it won’t get worse, because that could mean that the large corporates will realign again further and push back their investments,” he said.

Compared to past crises, the economy is on fragile footing as traditional growth drivers have weakened, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) Chief Economist Nicholas Antonio T. Mapa said via Viber.

“Vaunted household spending is sputtering, holding true to our description of a ‘tired consumer.’ After years of an unprecedented debt build, consumers grapple with debt management against a backdrop of rising prices. Government spending, a pillar of the economy that was shaken by a corruption scandal, is also absent as authorities attempt to clean up their ranks. Lastly, capital formation now suffers from years of underinvestment…,” Mr. Mapa said.

Oxford Economics raised its inflation forecast for the Philippines to 6.5% for this year from 2.5% prior to the energy crisis.

“Compared to the prewar baseline at the end of February, we’re expecting inflation to be substantially higher in the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam,” Ms. Senussi said.

“Unlike other emerging markets, the Philippines has no fuel subsidy in place and is hence the most exposed within the region to fuel price shocks given its high import intensity.”

Philippine headline inflation accelerated to an over three-year high of 7.2% in April from 4.1% in March and 1.4% in the same month last year.

This exceeded the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 5.6%-6.4% estimate for the month and the 5.5% median estimate in a BusinessWorld poll of 17 analysts.

The BSP sees inflation averaging 6.3% this year, well above its 2%-4% tolerance band, as the conflict continues to push up domestic fuel, transport, and food prices.

Ms. Senussi said the Philippines’ heavy reliance on oil imports makes more exposed to energy shocks. The country sources over 90% of its oil from the Middle East.

Moody’s Ratings also said in a May 11 report that the low energy stock of Asia-Pacific countries including the Philippines amplifies the region’s high vulnerability to the crisis.

According to the Department of Energy, the country has about 50.70 days’ worth of fuel stockpile as of May 8. This was slightly lower than the 54 days reported as of April 24.

SHALLOW TIGHTENING
But even as inflation risks grow, Metrobank’s Mr. Mapa expects the BSP’s tightening stance to remain “shallow” as it strikes a balance between controlling soaring prices and helping the economy recover.

“With the inflation path heading higher, we’ve seen renewed calls to push rates to non-normal levels to catch up supposedly with the curve,” he said. “BSP we feel, however, will look to balance signaling it is still an inflation-targeting monetary authority while also ensuring it doesn’t end up throwing out the economic baby with the bath water.”

“The central bank’s primary mandate is for price stability. Some will focus solely on this mantra without realizing that the full mandate highlights that the overarching goal of low and stable prices is chased in order to help achieve sustainable growth,” he added. “Thus, we believe BSP’s tightening cycle will come swift but remain shallow as it signals its intent to manage expectations while also ensuring it doesn’t snuff out whatever is left of fast-fading growth momentum.”

The BSP last month delivered its first hike since October 2023, lifting the policy rate by 25 basis points to 4.5% as a preemptive move to keep inflation expectations anchored and prevent broader second-order effects.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has also left the door open to tightening further through “a succession of modest rate hikes” to bring inflation back to their 2%-4% tolerance band.

BDO Capital’s Mr. Francisco added that despite faster inflation and weak growth, he does not expect a stagflation scenario as public and private spending are likely to remain resilient, supported by corporates and small businesses.

Lending growth and asset quality have also stayed robust, he added.

He said it’s mostly “business as usual” for corporates despite domestic and external uncertainties.

“What gives me confidence is the fact that we’re very resilient — at least I get my pulse from talking to the corporates. A lot of them are still optimistic. Yes, there are these headwinds, a lot of headwinds. Before it was just the Strait of Hormuz, but now we have this internal political strike. But we know how to survive,” Mr. Francisco said.

“I guess the key there is that regardless of administration, we succeeded. We know how to trudge along and get things done. So, whatever happens in politics is fine. But at least as far as day-to-day lives of the Filipino, we’re strong and I think we’ll get over that. And I’m seeing that when talking to the clients.” — Katherine K. Chan with a report from A.M.C. Sy

PHILIPPINE BANKS’ lending to businesses and consumers marked its fastest expansion in seven months in March, supported by robust liquidity in the financial system despite the Middle East conflict, preliminary Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.

Outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase agreements, grew by 10.7% to P14.603 trillion as of March from P13.192 trillion in the same month last year.

This was faster than the revised 9.6% climb in February and was the quickest growth in loans since the 11.2% in August last year.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, big banks’ lending activities rose by 1.7% month on month.

“Loans from universal and commercial banks grew at a faster pace in March 2026, providing even stronger support for production activities of businesses and consumption of households,” the central bank said in a statement late on Monday.

Outstanding loans to residents went up by 11.1% year on year to P14.299 trillion as of March from P12.869 trillion. This was an improvement from the revised 10.2% increase in February.

Most of the loans were those meant for production activities, which climbed by 9.7% to P12.322 trillion from P11.228 trillion.

This expansion in production loans was driven by the 26.7% increase in lending to the electricity, gas, steam, and air-conditioning supply industry. Other segments that showed growth were transportation and storage (19.4%); wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (9.3%); and real estate activities (8.8%).

Meanwhile, outstanding consumer loans to residents rose by 20.5% to P1.977 trillion as of March from P1.641 trillion a year ago, slightly easing from the 20.8% expansion in February. These include credit cards, motor vehicles, and general-purpose salary loans but exclude residential real estate loans.

BSP data showed that credit card loans jumped 27.9% to P1.229 trillion from P960.55 billion in the prior year, while loans for motor vehicles grew by 12.5% to P538.286 billion from P478.67 billion.

Outstanding salary loans were at P166.934 billion as of March, up 4.2% from P160.273 billion a year prior.

On the other hand, outstanding loans to nonresidents, including those disbursed by big banks’ foreign currency deposit units, declined by 5.9% to P303.993 billion in March from P323.028 billion a year earlier. This was smaller than the 13.9% drop logged in the same month in 2025.

Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., attributed the faster lending growth in March to demand for financing from businesses as they wanted to make their payments ahead of time in anticipation that prices and interest rates would go up further amid the Middle East conflict.

“The continued double-digit growth in bank loans… was partly due to some hedging, stockpiling, and investment activities that need to be financed before interest rates and prices go up further due to the war in the Middle East,” he said in an e-mail.

The Monetary Board last month hiked benchmark rates for the first time in over two years to rein in surging inflation due to the global oil price shock brought by the war between the United States and Iran, bringing the policy rate to 4.5%.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has also signaled more modest increases ahead as the conflict drives up price expectations. The central bank now sees headline inflation averaging 6.3% this year, well above its 2%-4% tolerance band, as the oil crisis stokes domestic costs.

Meanwhile, the pickup in both bank lending and liquidity in March reflects robust domestic demand and ample money supply despite the conflict, Union Bank of the Philippines Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said.

“Bank lending growth accelerated to 10.7%, driven largely by business borrowing in key sectors such as energy, transport, trade, and real estate — pointing to ongoing capacity expansion, working capital buildup, and project implementation,” he said via Viber. “Meanwhile, consumer lending remained strong, with growth still above 20%, indicating that household spending continues to be supported by steady income conditions and easing inflation.”

“Importantly, the data suggest that credit and liquidity conditions remain largely domestically driven, with the Middle East conflict having limited and indirect impact on local financial intermediation so far.”

In the coming months, banks will likely maintain their lending activities, but growth may slow slightly due to base effects, global uncertainties and high borrowing costs, Mr. Asuncion said.

“The main drivers will continue to be corporate borrowing tied to infrastructure and trade activity, resilient household credit demand, and public sector financing, all of which should keep liquidity conditions adequate and sustain near-term economic momentum.”

Several banks have signaled that they could tighten their lending standards and become more prudent when granting credit due to the high level of uncertainty surrounding the Middle East conflict. Lenders have also ramped up their provisioning to protect themselves from possible asset quality risks.

The central bank monitors banks’ lending activities to track the transmission of monetary policy.

“Looking ahead, the BSP will ensure that domestic liquidity and bank lending conditions remain aligned with its price and financial stability objectives,” the BSP said.

FASTER MONEY SUPPLY GROWTH
Liquidity growth also picked up in March to 12% from 10.3% in February, according to separate central bank data.

This was the fastest expansion in five-and-a-half years or since September 2020, when it rose by 12.2%.

Domestic liquidity or M3 — a measure of the amount of money in the economy that includes currencies in circulation, bank deposits, and other financial assets easily convertible to cash — rose to P20.365 trillion as of March from P18.181 trillion in the previous year.

Month on month, M3 inched up by 1.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis.

“Domestic liquidity growth was driven primarily by the continued expansion in borrowings by nonfinancial private corporations and households,” the BSP said.

Mr. Asuncion said credit growth in the private sector, stable net foreign asset (NFA) positions, and increased government borrowings supported the growth in domestic liquidity.

Domestic claims, which include those from private and government sectors, came in higher by 11.5% to P23.068 trillion in March from P20.685 trillion in the previous year.

This as claims on the private sector stood at P14.804 trillion during the month, with growth quickening to 11.8% from 10.6% in February.

Meanwhile, the central government’s increased issuances of government securities boosted its net claims to P6.258 trillion, up 12.1% year on year from P5.581 trillion.

Claims on a sector refer to that sector’s liabilities to depository corporations such as banks and the central bank.

Preliminary BSP data also showed that NFAs in peso terms grew by 8.6% to P7.391 trillion from P6.808 trillion a year prior.

The central bank’s NFAs edged up by 4.9% to P6.445 trillion, while banks’ NFA position climbed by 4.2% to P946.141 billion amid lower foreign currency-denominated bills.

NFAs reflect the difference between depository corporations’ claims and liabilities to nonresidents.

Meanwhile, the narrower measure of money supply or M1, which is made up of currency in circulation and current account deposit liabilities, rose by 9.4% year on year in March, picking up from the 8.5% increase in February.

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Harry Styles has premiered the music video for “Dance No More”, the third music video from the critically acclaimed new album KISS ALL THE TIME. DISCO, OCCASIONALLY. Directed by Colin Solal Cardo, WATCH HERE. 

Harry will make his long awaited return to the global stage next week when he kicks off the seven city Together, Together residency in Amsterdam. Promoted by Live Nation, Together, Together will include 67 stops in Amsterdam, London, São Paulo, Mexico City, New York, Melbourne, and Sydney from May through December. Highlights on the run include 30 shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and a history-making twelve night run at Wembley Stadium. Special guests include Robyn, Shania Twain, Fcukers, Jorja Smith, Jamie xx, Fousheé, and Skye Newman across select dates.  Please visit hstyles.co.uk/tour for a full list of dates and more information.

ABS-CBN received several honors for its outstanding programs and stars at the 7th Village Pipol Choice Awards (VPCA). 

Star Cinema’s romantic-comedy hit, “My Love Will Make You Disappear,” was named Movie of the Year, while its lead stars, Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino, were also recognized as Movie Actress of the Year, Movie Actor of the Year, and Pipol Sexiest of the Year (First Place – Female and Male Adult category).

ABS-CBN’s flagship news program, “TV Patrol,” was also honored as News Program of the Year for its dedicated public service and commitment to reliable journalism. 

Star Magic artist Alexa Ilacad took home the TV Host of the Year award for “Pinoy Big Brother.” Former PBB housemates were also recognized, including Fyang Smith who was named Breakthrough Star of the Year, Esnyr who was honored as YouTuber of the Year, and Bianca de Vera who was named Promising Female Star of the Year. The tandem of Bianca and Dustin Yu, known as “DustBia,” was also voted Fandom of the Year, while Rave Victoria earned the Male Face of the Year title.

Fresh from their historic Coachella debut, the nation’s girl group BINI was named P-Pop Group of the Year, with member Maloi Ricalde winning Female TikTok Face of the Year. 

One of ABS-CBN’s trending boy bands, WRIVE, was recognized as this year’s Rising P-pop Group, while Rain Celmar’s “Pahuway” nabbed the OPM Song of the Year award. 

Kolette Madello was also named Solo Performer of the Year for “Call Me Kolette,” while Mika Salamanca and Brent Manalo took home the Music Video of the Year for “What If Tayo?”

Brent was also named Fashion Influencer Face of the Year, while Ralph De Leon was recognized as New Male TV Personality.

Meanwhile, several Kapamilya stars were also named Pipol Face of the Year, including Kai Montinola (Third Place – Female Teen), Rain (Second Place – Female Teen), Anji Salvacion (Second Place – Female Adult), and Raikko Mateo (Third Place – Male Teen).

The VPCA is Village Pipol’s annual awarding ceremony that honors outstanding personalities, programs, and films in the industry.

Nissin Yakisoba invites noodle fans on a taste adventure with its “Flavors of the World” lineup. Its new Soy Garlic Chicken variant offers a Korean-inspired blend of savory richness with a hint of sweetness, while its Hot Cheesy Pork BBQ delivers a Japanese-inspired fusion of smoky, cheesy, and meaty flavors with every bite. Each variant is crafted to bring exciting international tastes closer to home and turn everyday meals into a flavorful experience.

For those who enjoy Nissin Yakisoba’s classic flavors, such as Savory Beef and Spicy Chicken, the brand now has a Busog Pack. Nissin Yakisoba fans can enjoy 25% bigger serving (than the regular size) with its new 75g pack. It’s made for those moments when one craves something quick yet filling, bringing more of that enjoyable signature saucy goodness, now offered in a new packaging and in a size that hits the spot. 

Nissin also offers a different kind of Japanese-inspired comfort, a special treat for ramen lovers.  The Japanese Style Miso Ramen Cup Noodles delivers a rich, savory broth that captures the essence of authentic miso flavor. Ramen fans can enjoy a tasty Japanese adventure with this limited-edition offering. Available exclusively in select convenience stores until June of this year or until supplies last.

With bold flavors and bigger bites, Nissin Yakisoba proves that great taste isn’t just satisfying, it’s an experience filled with “Yakisobrang Good Vibes.”

Nissin Yakisoba and Nissin Cup Noodles are available in supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. For more yummy updates, follow the official Facebook page.

The partnership brings together two names that Filipinos trust and look up to—Watsons, known for making health, wellness, and beauty accessible to all, and SB19, one of the country’s most influential P-pop groups, continuing to make waves on the global stage. At its core, the collaboration highlights the belief that confidence and excellence are built through everyday habits.

For Watsons, self-care has always gone beyond products on the shelf. It’s about helping people feel ready, confident, and at their best, whether for big moments or everyday routines. In many ways, this mirrors SB19’s journey. Behind every performance is discipline, preparation, and a commitment to continuous improvement, values that resonate strongly with how Watsons supports Filipinos in their own daily lives.

Both Watsons and SB19 understand that what happens behind the scenes matters just as much as what people see. From skincare and personal grooming to wellness routines that keep up with a fast-paced lifestyle, it’s the small, consistent habits that make a lasting difference.

“SB19 represents a generation that values authenticity, hard work, and self-expression. And at Watsons, we believe these qualities are supported by consistent self-care. “This collaboration reflects a shared belief that everyday routines empower people to perform, create, and express themselves with confidence,” said Jefferson L. Go, Chief Operating Officer of Watsons Philippines.

As brand ambassadors, SB19’s Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin bring their signature energy, artistry, and authenticity to campaigns that highlight Watsons’ wide range of health, wellness, and beauty offerings. More than just faces of the brand, they represent a mindset that resonates with a new generation—one that values growth, discipline, and staying true to oneself.

Fans, especially A’TIN and Watsons Club members, can expect more exciting moments ahead. One of the first highlights of the partnership will be SB19’s much-anticipated performance at the upcoming Watsons Playlist: Own the Moment happening on May 31 at SM MOA Arena, where they are set to top-bill the show. The event brings together music, wellness, beauty, and community, offering fans a chance to experience the collaboration in a more personal and high-energy setting.

More than a typical endorsement, the partnership between Watsons and SB19 reflects a shared story, one that celebrates Filipino pride, perseverance, and the power of showing up every day as your best self.

As the collaboration unfolds, fans are invited to stay connected with Watsons Philippines through its official social media channels—@watsonsph on Instagram, Watsons Philippines on Facebook, and @watsonsphilippines on TikTok, for exclusive content, updates, and upcoming campaign highlights.

Building on the success of its previous editions, TCL CoolFest Y3 promises an even more spectacular experience strengthened by Abenson’s dedication to delivering quality appliances and enhanced shopping experience that connect customers with the latest in home innovation and entertainment. Guests can look forward to electrifying performances from sought-after artists, an immersive showcase of TCL’s latest smart home innovations, and special appearances from the brand’s beloved ambassadors.

Inspired by vibrant tropical celebrations, this year’s CoolFest transforms the venue into a lively summer destination that blends Filipino cultural elements with refreshing textures, festive colors, and playful experiences — creating the perfect backdrop for music, entertainment, and innovation.

“Through TCL CoolFest, we transform innovation into an experience by bringing our latest technology closer to the people. Now in its third year, we’re taking everything to a much bigger stage at the Market! Market! Activity Center. With Abenson as our co-presenter, this is shaping up to be the ultimate summer event. We’re excited to make this year’s CoolFest even bigger and more memorable for everyone,” Mr. Peter Chen, TCL CEO shared.

For Abenson, the partnership represents another milestone in its long-standing relationship with TCL. United by a shared commitment to improving the lives of Filipino consumers, both brands continue to champion innovation and customer satisfaction.

“We have always valued our partnership with TCL, a brand that consistently delivers life-enhancing technological innovations. By combining TCL’s innovation with Abenson’s ‘Super Service,’ which includes Easy Financing, Fast Delivery, and Professional Installation, we continue to share one goal — providing Filipino customers with the best experience possible. Together, both brands go beyond product showcases to deliver a complete lifestyle experience. With Abenson as co-presenter, the experience is enhanced through curated product displays, on-ground assistance, and Super Service support that helps customers explore and upgrade their home solutions more seamlessly,” Apple Ma, Retail Marketing Head, Abenson.

A Cooltura Summer Treat

Get ready to swoon! The Juans are officially joining TCL CoolFest Y3. More than just a pop group, these guys are legitimate musicians who craft their own signature sound—as heard in hits like ‘Umaga’ and the heartbreakingly famous ‘Hindi Tayo Pwede.’ 

If you’re a fan of Asia’s Superstar and TCL’s main ambassador, Kathryn Bernardo, here is your lucky chance to see her up close. She’s returning to TCL CoolFest Y3 for an afternoon of fun and games that you definitely won’t want to miss

Catch TCL CoolFest Y3: Cooltura Summer Fest happening on May 17, 2026 at Market! Market! Activity Center. 

For more information and announcements, check out Abenson’s Facebook  and Instagram accounts and TCL’s official Facebookand Instagram accounts.

Under the Japan Karate Association banner, the event brought together elite karate practitioners from around the world. It served as a platform for advanced technical training and a stage for Filipino excellence, discipline, and perseverance to earn international respect and recognition.

At the forefront of this historic achievement, JKA Philippines proudly celebrates the recognition of two officially acknowledged 7th Dan (Nanadan) karatekas from the Philippines:

• Sensei Ruben Tinda-an from the Northern region
• Sensei Jullian Chees, also originally from the Northern region and now based in Germany

Their elevation to 7th Dan marks a landmark moment in Philippine karate history and further strengthens the country’s growing reputation within the international JKA community.

Meanwhile, Shihan Lito Luague, Chairman of JKA Philippines, together with Sensei Khim Torres, successfully renewed their Special Dan Rights—an important authority granted only to highly trusted and qualified leaders within the organization to conduct official Dan examinations.

Their renewal reflects not only technical mastery, but also the enduring confidence and trust bestowed upon them by the JKA Headquarters in Japan.

Adding further pride to the Philippine delegation, Sensei Cindy Torres successfully earned her Instructor C and Judge C qualifications following rigorous evaluation by the esteemed JKA HQ Shihan-kai composed of:

• Shuseki Shihan Oishi
• Shihan Imamura
• Shihan Shiina
• Shihan Izumiya
• Shihan Imura

At the same time, Sensei Kyla Tinda-an achieved her Instructor D and Judge D qualifications—an impressive accomplishment that signals the rise of a new generation of Filipino karate leaders ready to carry the tradition of excellence forward.

Special recognition is also extended to Sensei Raul Andaya, Internal & External Affairs Officer of JKA Philippines, whose unwavering support, professionalism, and strong representation contributed greatly to the success of the Philippine delegation throughout the camp.

According to members of the delegation, the achievements earned in Tokyo were not merely personal victories, but symbols of years of sacrifice, discipline, and relentless commitment to the true spirit of karate-do.

“These achievements are more than ranks and certifications,” shared members of JKA Philippines. “They are pathways that inspire the next generation of Filipino karatekas to dream bigger, train harder, and represent the Philippines with honor on the world stage.”

The organization also expressed deep gratitude to Shihan Lito Luague for his selfless leadership, sacrifices, and dedication in mentoring and guiding members toward growth, excellence, and international competitiveness.

As JKA Philippines continues to expand its presence globally, the success of the 2026 Spring Camp in Tokyo stands as proof that Filipino karate practitioners are earning their rightful place among the world’s finest.

The future of Philippine karate has never looked brighter.

We are JKA Philippines. Oss!

About JKA Philippines

JKA Philippines is the official Philippine organization affiliated with the prestigious Japan Karate Association, one of the world’s most respected traditional karate institutions. The organization is dedicated to preserving authentic Japanese karate traditions while developing world-class Filipino karate practitioners through discipline, character formation, technical excellence, and international training standards.

by Tomas Kauer

Claire Huang, Synology Philippines country manager, said that amid the country’s advancing digital initiatives, resilience can no longer be treated as a secondary consideration.

“Government systems must be designed to handle disruptions, protect sensitive data, and keep essential services available at all times,” Ms. Huang said in a statement, noting that this is crucial to ensuring public trust as more services go online.

The Philippines is among the countries most affected by cyberattacks globally, including attacks such as ransomware, phishing, and identity theft, Synology said, citing the Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2025.

During the GOVX.0 Conference 2026 held a few days ago, Synology shared how government agencies can strengthen their systems’ resilience through reliable backup, faster data recovery, and the ability to maintain operations during unexpected events.

The tech company also offers solutions such as Synology ActiveProtect, a specialized, high-performance data protection solution.

It said that the solution helps organizations standardize recovery processes, reduce manual workloads, and respond quickly to disruptions that halt access to essential services.

Synology reiterated that data resilience will remain crucial in ensuring reliable and secure access for citizens amid the expansion of digital government services. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

“We recognize the vital roles of our schools in shaping our citizens,” CEAP Advocacy and Public Engagement Office Ina Claustro said during a press conference.

“It’s difficult to teach democracy when power continues to revolve only among few families,” she added in Filipino.

Ms. Claustro noted that schools bear the responsibility of teaching the youth that public offices are not inherited and should be used for the greater good.

“Education must produce citizens who are critical and engaged,” she said. “To our youth, do not lose hope, do not accept that this is how politics work.”

“Democracy only works when new voices are given space to lead. Leadership should be earned through competence, integrity, and service – not inherited by some people,” she added.

The D1L movement proposes a law that prohibits political families from holding more than one position each in national and local offices. The proposal includes family members up to the fourth degree of consanguinity and affinity.

The succession, replacement, or switching of position among political families is also not allowed under the proposed law, and families that had members in political positions must maintain a “one term cooling period” after reaching their term limits.

“This law will change the composition and quality of members of the Congress and the leaders in the LGUs (local government units),” the groups said in a statement.

“A genuine anti-dynasty law is critical to our rejection of the politics of patronage, ayuda, pork barrel… political education, electoral reform, budget reform, and training and formation of our public servant leaders,” it added.

Under Article VI, Section 32 of the 1987 Constitution, the public can propose a law through a people’s initiative if the petition is signed by at least 10% of the total number of registered voters nationwide, and every legislative district has at least 3% signatures from registered voters.

“We are currently mobilizing our member schools across 17 regions to support this people’s initiative guided by hope, justice, mercy, and unity,” Ms. Claustro said in mixed English and Filipino. — Almira Louise S. Martinez

“Education is the most reliable ladder out of poverty. When a disaster strikes, that ladder shouldn’t break,” Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara said in a news release.

“We are fulfilling President Bongbong Marcos’ mandate to use innovation not just for safety, but for stability,” he added.

The agency said Project LIGTAS+, which stands for Learning Institution Geohazard Tracking and Assessment for Safety, aims to protect students from class disruptions caused by natural disasters.

“We are moving away from guesswork and toward a future where data ensures that no child’s education is washed away by a storm,” Mr. Angara said.

Data from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) showed that the country lost 53 school days in 2023 to 2024. The majority of which were lost due to high heat indices during April/May and typhoons.

Through the platform, schools would be able to receive school-specific risk profiles in real time by utilizing geospatial analytics, satellite imagery, and historical hazard data.

Other features of the platform include an interactive multi-hazard map, flood intelligence powered by satellite SAR data, earthquake impact assessments, volcanic activity monitoring, and AI-powered weather forecasts up to 10 days in advance.

DepEd noted that the platform would also help identify which specific schools within a locality are at risk and which can safely remain open during calamities. Meanwhile, teachers and school personnel can have early warnings for extreme heat and landslides.

“Project LIGTAS+ is designed to generate granular hazard views, enabling decision-makers to move beyond broad assumptions and toward more context-specific action,” the agency said in a news release.

“Project LIGTAS+ aims to give every parent peace of mind, knowing their children are protected by a system that is always one step ahead of the next disaster, ensuring that the path out of poverty remains open even in the face of nature’s uncertainty,” it added.

Project LIGTAS+ is currently in its pilot implementation phase and is designed to support DepEd’s long-term planning around school infrastructure and resource prioritization. — Almira Louise S. Martinez

The MakatiMed Wellness Hub is located on the 7th Floor of Ayala North Exchange Tower 1, just a short walk from its main hospital complex, providing a more relaxed ambience while maintaining easy access to the center’s consultants.

The facility has a total floor area of 1,157 square meters.

“This is a program of MMC that provides holistic and compassionate care, with a strong emphasis on comfort and convenience,” Saturnino P. Javier, medical director and interim co-president and chief executive officer (CEO) of MMC, said during the hub’s exclusive media briefing on Thursday.

“But ultimately, it is guided by the quality and safety standards for which MMC is known,” he added, noting the hub’s key differentiation from its counterparts.

The MakatiMed Wellness Hub also consolidates the center’s preventive care services, which were previously more difficult for patients to navigate within the hospital, Arlyn L. Songco, senior vice president and division head of creative, communications, and sales services at MMC, said.

“It’s now outside the hospital in a very nice, relaxing environment,” she said.

The hub offers services such as executive health checkups, cardiac screening, diagnostic imaging and laboratory services, primary care vaccinations, dermatologic and laser procedures, and mental wellness services.

Ms. Songco said that the wide range of services can be availed of by patients of all ages.

BusinessWorld had the opportunity to tour the Wellness Hub. Among its highlights is the dermatology and laser area, which features a state-of-the-art machine that maps moles across the body to help in the early detection of possible skin cancer.

Eunice B. Mocas, department manager of the MakatiMed Wellness Hub, said that the price for executive health checkups starts at P20,000, which already includes the “Basic 5” laboratory tests and assessment: physical examination, complete blood count, urinalysis, stool examination, chest X-ray, and chemistry panel.

She also said that packages will be offered and tailored to the needs and demographics of patients.

Since its inception, the MakatiMed Wellness Hub outpatient facility has been serving around 100 patients a day during lean months, Ms. Songco said. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

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Luxury has been traditionally viewed as expensive and aspirational in the Philippines. In recent decades, however, the rise of the middle class and dual-income households has financially empowered modern Filipino families, while redefining luxury. It’s no longer just about high price tags and opulence, but also about embracing smart living.

With the newfound income and upgraded status come busier, faster-paced lifestyles that demand smart solutions that offer more than basic functions. In this high-speed environment, the modern family prioritizes efficiency that expedites and simplifies their daily routines, allowing them to reclaim time for family development and personal well-being.

Philips Smart Locks Bring Luxury to Security

As Filipinos begin to upgrade their lifestyles, home security is a great place to start. Philips is leading this transformation by offering a vast selection of curated smart home locks. With its advanced security features, Philips has transformed traditional and stressful home security management into a seamless digital experience.

Philips Smart Locks’ keyless entry removes a common daily friction and allows every family member to enjoy simplified access to their homes. Homeowners no longer have to frantically dig through bags at the doorstep, worry about too many duplicated keys with household staff, or worry about misplacing or dropping keys anywhere.

Spotlighting Innovation: The DDL720-MVP 

Leading the smart home living revolution in the Philips Smart Locks line is the DDL720-MVP. Designed for the tech-savvy Filipino family, it offers advanced features while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Its palm vein recognition capability is a touchless, precise, and high-security way to instantly unlock your home using the unique vein patterns in your hand. Its near-infrared light detects the hemoglobin flowing in your blood to eliminate issues such as shallow fingerprints and dry skin.

To help parents monitor arrivals and departures in their home, whether they are stuck at the office or in Manila traffic, the DDL720-MVP works with the Home Access App, which records doorbell notifications and unlocking history in real-time. Another convenient feature is the video door viewer, which also automatically captures photos and videos each time a guest presses the doorbell.  

In addition, the device automatically locks each time the door closes, providing an immediate sense of security for anyone entering or leaving the premises.

Focus on What Matters

Beyond physical security, the real value of the Philips DDL720-MVP smart Lock is reducing the stresses of daily life, such as worrying about misplaced keys, waiting until late at night for each member of the family to come home, or worrying about the home while the entire family is on vacation.

Integrating Philips Smart Locks in the home allows families and single professionals to live life more meaningfully and with intention, spend more quality time together, enjoy more adventures and experiences outside their home, and connect with other people in their community with peace of mind.

This latest drop arrives in a gorgeous, highly wearable Frosted Ivory-PUMA Silver colorway. It balances understated, everyday neutral tones with brilliant little flashes of metallic shine, giving your outfit just the right amount of pop without trying too hard. With its streamlined shape and retro T-toe design, it proves that a piece of track history can easily become your new modern staple.

Though it looks perfectly at home on the streets today, the H-Street is deeply rooted in early 2000s track history. Inspired by PUMA’s late-90s Harambee racing spike and officially launched as a lifestyle shoe in 2003, it delivers that retro Y2K aesthetic with a featherlight feel that won’t weigh you down. 

Now, with Rosé leading its new era, the silhouette effortlessly blends this sporty racing heritage with the kind of everyday, comfortable street style you actually want to wear. Set against a dreamy backdrop of quiet streets and perfectly trimmed hedges, the iconic H-Street sneaker’s new colorway slips naturally into Rosé’s world. It’s all about taking familiar, everyday moments and giving them that signature, cool-girl Rosé aesthetic.

The H-Street is made to be the easiest grab-and-go shoe in your closet. Whether you are throwing on baggy denim for a quick iced coffee run down the street, browsing weekend pop-up markets, or just aiming for that relaxed “model-off-duty” look, they instantly tie an outfit together. The sleek, low-profile shape is incredibly easy to style, while the breezy mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable from your morning errands all the way to late-night hangouts.

The PUMA H-Street retails for PHP 5,500 starting May 7, 2026, at PUMA.com, PUMA flagship stores, and select PUMA resellers. Visit PUMA Philippines’ official website and social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to learn more.

Actor Dingdong Dantes greeted Senator Bam Aquino on his birthday, wishing him good health so he can continue doing more for his family and the country.

“Hi, Sen Bam! Happy, happy birthday to you. Ang wish namin sa iyo siyempre ay good health. Sana mas tumibay pa o manatiling matatag at malusog ang iyong kalusugan,” Dantes said in a video message.

“Dahil siyempre alam namin marami ka pa talagang gusto gawin para sa sarili mo, kundi pati sa iyong pamilya at higit sa lahat sa iyong mga kababayan,” he added.

“Iyan ang wish namin sa iyo. For now, enjoy the special day of yours, bro! Maligayang, maligayang kaarawan sa iyo. Cheers!” the Kapuso Primetime King further said.

Sen. Bam and Dingdong have been friends since their grade school days, when Sen. Bam was still known simply as “Bam-Bam.”

Over the years, the two have worked together on youth-centered advocacies and co-hosted several programs, including their most recent collaboration, the online show “DongBam AsenShow.”

Sen. Bam also appeared in Dingdong’s special birthday episode of “Family Feud,” where he and his teammates — actress Iza Calzado, former National Youth Commission (NYC) chairperson Gio Tingson, and stand-up comedian Alex Calleja — won the P200,000 jackpot prize.

Dingdong has also supported Sen. Bam in his 2013, 2019, and 2025 Senate campaigns.

The two also worked closely during Dingdong’s stint as Commissioner-at-Large of the National Youth Commission (NYC) from 2014 to 2016, when Sen. Bam was serving his first term as senator.

At a time when Filipino theater is thriving across the country, the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) proudly unveils one of the most anticipated theatrical events of 2026: “Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter!” a fearless, hilarious, and razor-sharp evolution of a franchise that has defined satire across film, digital, and now live theater.

Headlined by Eugene Domingo, the franchise takes a bold leap from screen to stage in this highly anticipated fourth installment.

From A Cult Classic to Cultural Touchstone

What began in 2011 as a groundbreaking independent film has evolved into a multi-platform cultural phenomenon. The original Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank captured the indie film boom, satirizing the industry’s fixation on “poverty porn” and its pursuit of international acclaim. Its sequel skewered mainstream romantic comedies, while its third installment examined historical revisionism in the digital age.

Now, the franchise steps into live performance, turning its lens toward Philippine theater.

True to its DNA, the series remains a satire with purpose. “Septic Tank has always been about satirizing institutions,” shares playwright Chris Martinez. “This time, it is about the state of Philippine theater, where it is, and where it’s going.”

For director Maribel Legarda, this staging is not replication but transformation. “Film and theater speak different languages. What excites me is how something familiar can evolve and find new meaning in liveness.” She adds, “In theater, ‘live’ is not just a descriptor. It is a condition. It breathes, it trembles, it risks failure, and in doing so, it allows for discovery.”

A Mirror to a “Golden Age”

The arrival of Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4 comes at a pivotal moment. Widely described as a “golden age” for Philippine theater, recent years have seen a surge in productions and audiences, bringing with it new challenges for the industry.

“It’s exciting, but it’s also a good time to analyze,” says Chris Martinez. “Is it really a golden age? There is good, there is bad, and maybe this play can offer a clearer perspective on the power of theater.”

Legarda underscores the urgency of live performance in today’s content-saturated landscape. “When we laugh, we let our guard down and sometimes recognize uncomfortable truths. That is where comedy becomes a mirror.”

In this sense, Septic Tank 4 is both a celebration and a commentary, a funny, self-aware take on an art form that is vibrant, ever-shifting, and not without its own “sh*t.”

A Powerhouse Collaboration

Sharing the stage with Eugene Domingo is an exceptional lineup of theater-makers, including Melvin Lee, Andoy Ranay, Meann Espinosa, JC Santos, Stella Cañete-Mendoza, Joshua Lim So, and Marlon Rivera, alongside a vibrant PETA ensemble: Ron Alfonso, Kiki Baento, Roi Calilong, Jay Cortez, Nyla Festejo, James Lanante, Carlon Matobato, Eli Namoc, Reggie Ondevilla, Air Paz, and Ada Tayao.

Guided by the vision of Maribel Legarda and written by Chris Martinez, the production is brought to life by a dynamic creative team including: Assistant Director Johnnie Moran; Set and Costume Designer Gino Gonzales; Deputy Costume Designer Martha Cruz; Assistant Set Designer Leslie Centeno; Lighting Designer Barbie Tan-Tiongco; Sound and Music by Angel Dayao; Lyricist Michelle Ngu Nario; Choreographer Raflesia Bravo; and Video Design and Mapping by Bene Manaois.

Theater About Theater—Bold, Daring, Unmissable

Structured as a “play within a play,” Septic Tank 4 explores the process of theater-making, with actors portraying heightened versions of themselves and blurring the line between reality and performance. It is irreverent and unapologetically meta, filled with humor, spectacle, and playful commentary.

In a time of endless content and streaming options, Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4 serves as a reminder of what live theater uniquely offers: the thrill of immediacy, shared laughter, and the magic of experiencing a story unfold in real time. It reminds us that live theater is personal, powerful, and can only be experienced in person.

As Legarda puts it, “This production is an invitation: to laugh, to reflect, and to engage.” With its fearless humor and powerhouse ensemble, the show invites audiences to think, respond, and rediscover the power of live theater.

Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live Sa Cheter! will run for 50 shows from June 19 to August 16, 2026, at the PETA Theater Center. Matinee shows are at 2:00 pm, evening shows at 7:30 pm.

Ticket prices are P3,500 (VIP), P2,800 (Orchestra and Balcony Center), P2,500 (Orchestra Side), and P1,800 (Balcony Side). 

Celebrating his 20th year in the industry, which started in the “Pinoy Big Brother” house in 2006, Gerald now takes on a dual role as Allan, the newly assigned liaison officer from the Muslim Affairs, and Jalil, a trusted protector of his community. He infiltrates the special investigation division and comes face-to-face with Richard Gutierrez (Marcus), the agent who led the attack and capture of his father, Datu Rahman (Jaime Fabregas). 

JRB Creative Production, the ABS-CBN unit behind the series, also announced the new cast members who will be joining the action-drama: Yves Flores, Marc Abaya, and Joem Bascon, comprising Metal 13; and River Joseph, L.A. Santos, Albie Casino, and Lou Yanong, with Ejay Falcon, as members of the new Task Force Alpha. 

Senator Robin Padilla, known as the Alamat ng Aksyon, has also begun appearing in the series as Ahmad Mustapha, who is the key to Allan (Gerald)’s access in the government. 

Will Allan succeed in exposing the truth, or will double-crossing agent Lara (Bela Padilla) stand in his way? 

Don’t miss the action in “Blood vs Duty,” airing from Mondays to Fridays on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, and Kapamilya Online Live at 8pm. The series also streams on Netflix, 72 hours in advance, and iWant, 48 hours in advance of its television airing.  To watch “Blood vs Duty” on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, turn on your digital black box, press the scan button on the remote control, and look for ALLTV2. 

Meanwhile, Gerald and fellow “Blood vs Duty” actor Baron Geisler sit down together on the hostless talk show “Stars on Stars” for a rare and revealing conversation about their experience working in the series and in showbiz throughout the years. Catch the new episode of “Stars on Stars” on Jeepney TV Facebook page and YouTube channel this Saturday (May 9), 7PM.

For more details on “Blood vs Duty,” visit bloodvsduty.abs-cbn.com and follow JRB Creative Production on Facebook, X (@JRBcreativeprod), Instagram(@JRBcreativeproduction), and TikTok(@jrbcreativeprod).

“The initial plan was to list very, very soon. But due to the issues we see in the market, we may potentially have to push it back,” LT Group President and Chief Operating Officer Lucio C. Tan III said during a media briefing on Wednesday.

The conglomerate also said it is reassessing plans to increase capital expenditures this year as uncertainty linked to rising oil prices and global tensions weighs on the business environment.

“Going forward, we were probably expecting a bit more, but in light of everything that’s happening, it’s currently being reviewed, so we may go back to our historical numbers,” LT Group Chief Financial Officer Jose Gabriel D. Olives said.

He said annual capital expenditures have ranged between P6 billion and P8 billion over the past five years.

Mr. Tan said LT Group remains optimistic about its long-term growth prospects despite macroeconomic risks.

“We’re still excited about the growth for LTG as a whole. We are mindful of a lot of the challenges that we have, but we’re confident that we can address all of those,” he said.

The conglomerate reported an attributable net income of P30.98 billion for 2025, up 7% and marking its fourth consecutive year of record earnings. Revenues reached P132.78 billion.

Philippine National Bank (PNB) contributed P14.26 billion, or 46% of total attributable income. The bank’s net income rose 20% to P25.34 billion.

Fortune Tobacco Corp. and PMFTC contributed a combined P11.24 billion, accounting for 36% of group income.

Tanduay Distillers posted a 45% increase in net income to P3.12 billion, while Asia Brewery reported P877 million in net income.

Eton Properties Philippines, Inc. posted P765 million in net income after real estate sales rose 46% to P731 million.

LT Group shares rose 0.53% to close at P15.20 apiece on Wednesday. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno

In a statement on Wednesday, the company said the mall has a gross floor area of 100,000 square meters (sq.m.) and a gross leasable area of 61,000 sq.m.

The development is located within Arca South, one of Ayala Land’s growth estates in Taguig, and is expected to serve residents, office workers, and transit users in the area.

Ayala Land said the project forms part of its broader push to increase the share of stable and predictable revenues in its portfolio amid a more measured property sales environment.

“At Ayala Malls, we design for frequency and habit,” Ayala Malls Chief Operating Officer Paul Birkett said.

“The more a space becomes part of everyday life, the more it supports consistent customer flow and stronger merchant performance over time,” he added.

The company said the mall is intended to support long-term commercial activity within the estate while reinforcing surrounding residential and office developments.

Ayala Land said integrating retail developments early into the estate’s development cycle is intended to accelerate business activity and establish long-term consumption patterns that could support stable rental yields.

The mall features an open and mixed-format retail layout, diverging from the traditional enclosed mall format.

Ayala Land also said the project may serve as a prototype for future retail developments as the company shifts toward more flexible and community-integrated retail formats focused on long-term income generation.

Shares in Ayala Land rose by 0.13% or 2 centavos to close at P15.32 on Wednesday. — Juliana Chloe A. Gonzales

THE Philippine unemployment rate in March rose to 5%, as the number of jobless Filipinos jumped to 2.58 million amid the oil crisis, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said.

Preliminary results from the March 2026 Labor Force Survey released on Wednesday showed the jobless rate stood at 5% in March, much higher than the 3.9% in the same month a year ago but slightly better than the 5.1% in February.

“The unemployment rate stood at 5% which means 50 out of 1,000 individuals in the labor force did not have jobs or any business in March 2026,” National Statistician Claire Dennis S. Mapa said in a briefing.

PSA data showed the number of unemployed Filipinos stood at 2.58 million in March, up by 645,000 from 1.93 million a year earlier, but fell by 84,000 from the 2.66 million recorded in February.

Mr. Mapa said the oil crisis has put pressure on the labor market, particularly in some sectors such as fishing and aquaculture. He said they are closely monitoring whether the oil price shocks will spill over to other sectors.

“We want to check whether the external shock on fuel and energy will spread to the other sub-sectors… It is not yet conclusive if the effects will spread. We have to wait for the April round to see if it will spread,” he said.

For the first three months, the unemployment rate averaged 5.3%, higher than the 4% average a year ago.

“Compared to its Asian peers, the Philippines’ unemployment rate is lower than that of China (5.4%) and India (5.1%), but higher than Malaysia’s (2.9%) and Vietnam’s (2.2%),” the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development  said in a statement.

JOB QUALITY
Meanwhile, job quality improved as the underemployment rate fell to 12.3% in March, from 13.4% in the same month last year. However, it was higher than the 11.8% in February.

The ranks of underemployed Filipinos — those who want longer work hours or an additional job — rose by 192,000 year on year to 6.03 million in March.

Year to date, the average underemployment stood at 12.4%.

The country’s employment rate stood at 95%, lower than the 96.1% in March 2025, but slightly higher than the 94.9% posted in February.

This translated to 49.07 million employed persons in March, up by 1.05 million from the 48.02 million a year ago.

Month on month, the number of employed individuals fell by 357,000 from the 49.43 million in February.

“In March, there was a spike in fuel prices, so the number of employed fell month on month to 357,000… The decline came from fishing and aquaculture which were affected by high diesel costs,” Mr. Mapa said.

The employment rate averaged 94.7% in the January to March period.

Data from the PSA showed the labor force participation rate (LFPR) — the proportion of the working-age population (15 years old and over) that is part of the total labor force — inched up to 63.3% in March. This translated to a labor force of 51.65 million Filipinos during the month.

This was higher than the LFPR of 62.9%, equivalent to a labor force of 49.95 million a year ago. However, this was lower than the LFPR of 63.8%, equivalent to 52.09 million, in February.

Year to date, the LFPR averaged 63.1%.

Mr. Mapa said the month-on-month decline in the participation rate was primarily due to some individuals choosing to focus on schooling (394,000) and household family duties (142,000) rather than seeking work. He said others also felt there is no work available (34,000).

Data showed fishing and aquaculture had the biggest year-on-year decline in jobs in March, as it shed 189,000 jobs.

Mr. Mapa said manufacturing jobs fell by 149,000, mainly in the semiconductor and electronics industry, and fruits and vegetable processing.

Arts, entertainment and recreation jobs declined by 147,000, reflecting job losses in gambling and betting activities, amusement parks and other sports activities.

Month on month, industries that saw the biggest drop in employment include fishing and aquaculture (-420,000); other office activities (-299,000); manufacturing (-217,000); human health and social work activities (-154,000); and financial and insurance activities (-116,000).

On the other hand, the biggest year-on-year increase in jobs was in transportation and storage, which added 507,000 jobs.

“Administrative and support service activities also added 458,000 jobs to 3.02 million. The number of employed increased in call center activities, voice, back office operation activities, non voice and temporary employment agency activities,” Mr. Mapa said.

Month on month, jobs in agriculture and fisheries increased by 486,000 to 8.38 million, followed by construction (184,000) and education (142,000).

In March, the services sector continued to hold the largest share of employment at 63% followed by agriculture at 19.1% and industry at 17.9%.

OUTLOOK
In a statement, Economy Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said that the government is moving to fast-track support for the labor market to counter the negative effects of global shocks on the cost of essential goods.

“We commit to tightening the delivery of targeted assistance, such as fuel subsidies and service contracting for transport workers, farmers, and fisherfolk to improve alignment and expedite implementation,” Mr. Balisacan said.

In a note, Chinabank Research said employment data indicates that the labor market generally remained “stable” in March despite the Middle East conflict and “heightened domestic fragilities.”

“This provides some optimism that the conflict has not led to a substantial deterioration of economic activity. However, weakening business sentiment — as reflected in the BSP’s latest survey — and the decisions of some firms to temper expansion plans remain risks, potentially leading to a slowdown in hiring and eventually job losses,” Chinabank said.

Chinabank said it expects more job losses in the manufacturing sector in April as “higher input costs led manufacturing firms to scale back their staffing levels.”

University of the Philippines Diliman School of Labor and Industrial Relations Assistant Professor Benjamin B. Velasco said workers are dealing with high inflation and a shortage in quality jobs.

“Fishing and manufacturing are shedding jobs whether month on month or year on year. With El Niño on the horizon and the global economy stagnant, the climate- and supply chain-dependent sectors are very vulnerable,” he told BusinessWorld.

“The ongoing US-Israel war on Iran continues to disrupt the labor market with land-based OFWs being repatriated and Filipino seafarers caught in the crossfire. Moreover, double-digit underemployment accompanies higher unemployment, signaling the dearth of quality employment opportunities,” Mr. Velasco added.

Federation of Free Workers President Jose Sonny G. Matula said in a Viber message that the government should consider a “New Deal”-style approach, expanding public works, housing, and infrastructure programs to create jobs during periods of weak private-sector demand.

Mr. Matula said wage increases and large-scale infrastructure projects not only provide employment but also boost household spending, helping stimulate broader economic activity and strengthen the domestic economy.

THE Philippines’ agricultural production shrank by 0.3% in the first quarter of the year, due to a decline in crop and fisheries output, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said.

Data from the PSA showed the value of production in agriculture and fisheries at constant 2018 prices declined to P437.52 billion in the January to March period, from P438.65 billion in the same period last year.

This was a reversal of the 2.1% growth in farm output in the first quarter of 2025, and the 0.8% expansion in the fourth quarter.

This was also the first drop in output since the 1.9% contraction in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Declines in crops (-2.4%) and fisheries (-6.1%) outweighed gains in poultry (7.1%) and livestock (5.1%), dragging down the farm sector’s overall performance during the first quarter.

“The decline was driven by weaker crop and fisheries output, underscoring the sector’s vulnerability to weather disruptions and price volatility,” the Department of Agriculture (DA) said in a statement on Wednesday.

The agency attributed the weak performance to the drop in rice production, lingering impact of typhoon disruptions late last year, and softer farmgate prices, which discouraged farmers from expanding production.

At current prices, the value of production in agriculture and fisheries also fell by 2.4% year on year to P607.22 billion in the first quarter from P622.06 billion previously.

CROPS, FISHERIES
Crop output, which accounted for 55.7% of the total value of agricultural production, shrank by 2.4% year on year to P243.62 billion in the first quarter. This was a reversal from the 1% growth in the same period in 2025, but slightly better than the 2.6% contraction in the fourth quarter.

Palay (unmilled rice) production, which accounted for almost 20% of total farm output, contracted by 6.3%, a reversal from the 0.3% growth in the same quarter last year.

The PSA earlier reported that first-quarter palay production dropped by 6.26% to a six-year low of 4.4 million metric tons.

Corn production also went down by 5.5% in the first quarter, slightly worse than the 5.1% drop a year ago.

Declines in output were also recorded in banana (-2.7%) and sugarcane (-8%).

Meanwhile, coconut registered a 1.4% year-on-year increase in the first quarter, an improvement from a 0.3% contraction in 2025.

Double-digit production growth was seen in tobacco (41.6%), monggo (mung bean, 37.9%), ampalaya (bitter gourd, 19.1%), potato (12.4%), and cacao (11.7%).

Output growth was also recorded in onion (6.6%), rubber (5.9%), and tomato (5.5%).

Raul Q. Montemayor, national manager of the Federation of Free Farmers, told BusinessWorld that the decline in agricultural output can be attributed to lower rice output.

“The palay harvested in the first quarter of 2026 was planted in the last quarter of 2025, during which time palay prices were severely depressed. This discouraged many farmers from maintaining or expanding their production,” he said via Viber.

Mr. Montemayor said the production decline in major cash crops, such as corn, banana, and sugarcane, further dragged overall crop output.

Former Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar also told BusinessWorld via Viber that irrigation disruption late last year in major producing areas in Central Luzon also affected farm productivity.

Analysts earlier estimated that damage to a section of the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems in Nueva Ecija affected about 30,000 to 40,000 hectares of farmland.

Meanwhile, fisheries output, which accounted for 12% of overall production, also contracted by 6.1% year on year to P52.34 billion in the first quarter. This was the biggest annual decline since the 6.7% contraction in the fourth quarter of 2022.

A drop in output was seen in major fishery commodities such as milkfish (-4.9%), tilapia (-2.4%), skipjack (gulyasan, -8.7%), and tiger prawn (sugpo, -2.8%).

Double-digit declines were also recorded in seaweed (-34%), mudcrab (alimango, -31.7%), big-eyed scad (matangbaka, -24.9%), blue crab (alimasag, -23.6%), yellowfin tuna (tambakol, 13.6%), and indian mackerel (alumahan, -12.9%).

Meanwhile, market staple galunggong (roundscad) increased by 48.6%. Output growth was also recorded in fimbriated sardines (tunsoy, 44.7%), bigeye tuna (tambakol, 16.7%), threadfin brim (bisugo, 12%), and grouper (lapulapu, 8.2%).

Mr. Dar said the decline in fisheries could be attributed to reduced catch due to overfishing.

Jayson H. Cainglet, executive director of the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura, said smallcale fishers, who make up the majority of the sector, are also facing increasing competition from commercial fishers.

“The fisheries sector continues to weaken following policy changes that allowed commercial vessels into the 15-kilometer municipal waters, undermining small fishers and accelerating resource pressure,” he told BusinessWorld via Viber.

In 2024, the Supreme Court upheld a 2023 Malabon Court ruling, which struck down key provisions of the Fisheries Code, including municipal fishers’ preferential access to the 15-kilometer municipal waters.

POULTRY, LIVESTOCK GAINS
Meanwhile, the poultry sector, which accounted for 18.5% of total farm output, jumped by an annual 7.1% in the first quarter to P80.83 billion. The sector’s output growth slowed from the 9.8% rise in the first quarter of 2025.

Chicken production, which accounts for 12.7% of total farm output, recorded an annual gain of 5.8% by value.

Output growth was also seen in chicken eggs (10.6%), duck eggs(3.5%), and duck (2.9%).

Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Swine and Poultry Michael J. Garcia said the growth in poultry is likely driven by new entrants in the market.

“There are a lot of investors in the poultry sector. There is still unserved demand for poultry, and including chicken egg, it remains the cheapest protein available,” he told reporters at a briefing on Wednesday.

Mr. Dar said the increase in output could also be attributed to a shorter production cycle, which makes it attractive for investors to expand their operations.

“There are now bigger companies involved in poultry, including those of small to medium farmers. With the shorter production cycle, the raisers are able to adapt and, if need be, increase their enterprises,” he said.

At the same time, livestock production grew by an annual 5.1% to P60.74 billion. The sector accounted for 13.9% of the total output.

Hog production, which accounted for 11.4% of the total farm output, rose by 6.4%, the sector’s fastest growth in almost 10 years.

Cattle and dairy production also inched up by 1.7% and 6.5%, respectively.

Meanwhile, carabao production slipped by 3.3%, while goat dropped by 5.8%.

Mr. Garcia said the surge in hog production was mainly due to base effects.

“It is good that there is growth in the sector, but it’s coming from a low base because we lost 5 million pigs due to the African Swine Fever (ASF),” he said.

He added that the sector’s recovery also reflects its increasing resilience to ASF.

“The big farms are now learning how to operate with ASF, even with limited vaccine availability. Smallholders, which account for 80% of the sector, are also starting to adapt,” Mr. Garcia said.

DECLINING INCOMES
Despite improvements in some subsectors, industry groups said the headline production figures mask worsening conditions at the farm level.

Mr. Cainglet said profitability continues to deteriorate amid rising input costs and sustained import volumes.

“Unprecedented import volumes and rising production costs are pushing Philippine agriculture toward contraction. As a result, many farmers are now considering skipping the next cropping cycle, threatening supply in the coming quarters,” he said.

Alfred Ng, vice chairman of the National Federation of Hog Raisers, said that despite the growth in the livestock sector, particularly in swine, producers still struggle with low farmgate prices.

“With the current price of P190 to P200 per kilo, farmers are at the breakeven point, if not earning a little,” he told BusinessWorld via Viber.

Mr. Ng also warned that any reductions in pork import tariffs could further dampen incentives for local producers to expand.

“We just hope that the current negotiations and lobbying by both local pork importers and European Union exporters for the lowering of pork import tariffs will not materialize,” he said.

He added that the DA should limit and control the volume of pork imports to further encourage local farmers to expand.

REBOUND SEEN IN Q2
Meanwhile, the DA said it expects farm output to recover in the second quarter, as rice production is expected to improve.

“We are seeing encouraging signs on the ground, with rice production likely recovering in the second quarter as planting conditions normalize, palay prices improve, and government interventions take effect,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said in the statement.

He added that the growth in the livestock and poultry sectors should help stabilize overall output and support the domestic food supply.

However, the DA said that rising production costs and weather risks could weigh on farm output in the second half of the year.

“While we expect a stronger second quarter, the impact of higher oil prices on transport and inputs, particularly fertilizer, as well as the potential effects of an El Niño-induced drought, could weigh on production in the second half,” Mr. Laurel said.

Mr. Laurel said the department is intensifying efforts to help the sector recover and manage emerging headwinds.

THE National Government’s (NG) outstanding debt rose to a fresh record high of P18.49 trillion as of end-March, driven partly by the peso’s depreciation, the Bureau of the Treasury said.

Latest data from the Treasury showed that the debt went up by 1.81% from P18.16 trillion at the end of February.

Year on year, outstanding debt went up by 10.81% from P16.68 trillion at end-March 2025.

NG debt is the total amount owed by the Philippine government to creditors such as international financial institutions, development partner-countries, banks, global bondholders and other investors.

“The expansion was primarily driven by the revaluation impact of peso depreciation against the US dollar, alongside net issuance of domestic securities,” the Treasury said in a statement late Wednesday.

The bulk or 67.8% of the total debt stock came from domestic sources, while the rest were external borrowings.

Domestic debt, which was composed of government securities, inched up by 0.44% to P12.53 trillion at end-March from P12.48 trillion at end-February.

Year on year, it jumped by 10.15% from P11.38 trillion.

According to the BTr, the increase in domestic debt was “mainly due to net issuance of government securities amounting to P46.72 billion.”

“In addition, peso depreciation contributed P8.68 billion to the peso value of foreign-currency-denominated domestic securities,” it added.

The peso closed P60.748 against the dollar on March 31, weakening by P3.083 from its P57.665 close on February 27.

Meanwhile, external debt jumped by 4.81% to P5.95 trillion as of end-March from P5.68 trillion at end-February.

Year on year, it surged by 12.24% from P5.3 trillion in the same period.

The Treasury said the increase was “largely attributed to the depreciation of the peso,” which raised the peso value of foreign currency-denominated obligations by P299.50 billion.

This was partly offset by “net repayments of P2.55 billion and downward revaluation of third-currency debt by P23.92 billion,” it added.

External debt was composed of P3 trillion in global bonds and P2.94 trillion in loans.

The NG’s guaranteed obligations inched up by 0.37% to P381.41 billion as of end-March from P379.98 billion in the previous month.

“The movement was influenced by the impact of peso depreciation on the valuation of external guarantees, which added P4.53 billion,” the BTr said.

The increase was, however, partly offset by net repayments on domestic and external guarantees, which reduced the debt level by P760 million and P1.50 billion, respectively.

“In addition, favorable third currency fluctuations provided an additional P840 million offset,” it said.

Year on year, guaranteed obligations increased by 12.23% from P339.86 billion.

The NG’s outstanding debt is projected to reach P19.06 trillion by end-2026 under the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing 2026.

Under the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework 2022-2030, updated in October 2025, the government seeks to bring the debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio down to 58% by 2030.

Last year, the debt-to-GDP ratio climbed to 63.2%, the highest annual level in two decades or since the 65.7% recorded in 2005.

First-quarter GDP and debt-to-GDP ratio data will be released on Thursday (May 7).

In a decision dated April 30, the regulator authorized the implementation of the proposed capex program, which covers 100 projects under regulatory year 2018 aimed at addressing customer demand, resolving operational deficiencies, and ensuring compliance with service performance standards.

“After a thorough evaluation of all the evidence submitted, and appreciation of all the information gathered, the Commission finds that the implementation of the subject capex projects… will benefit its consumers, in accordance with its obligation to provide continuous, safe, reliable, secure, and efficient service for its consumers,” the regulator said.

The ERC said the approved projects will be subject to review and adjustment based on actual usage and verified costs.

Meralco withdrew its highest-cost project, a P2.43-billion advanced metering infrastructure expansion, in 2022.

The power distributor was also directed to pay the ERC a permit fee of P122.78 million.

Meralco is the country’s largest private electric distribution utility, serving more than 8.2 million customers in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, including Bulacan, Cavite, Rizal, and parts of Laguna, Batangas, Pampanga, and Quezon.

Amid higher power costs linked to global oil price pressures, the ERC earlier directed Meralco to accelerate the P19.96-billion refund to its customers.

The accelerated refund will be implemented over 12 months instead of the original 36-month schedule, resulting in an average refund rate of P0.2511 per kilowatt-hour.

Meralco is also awaiting the decision of the ERC on its proposed refund of over P9 billion following a true-up calculation for the lapsed period in 2025.

Meralco’s controlling stakeholder, Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., is partly owned by PLDT Inc. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera

THE UPTREND in food inflation is expected to persist through 2027 amid mounting cost pressures, weather disruptions, and external risks due to the ongoing Middle East war, analysts said.

“We are seeing this to continue until next year or when the Middle East crisis has been resolved,” Danilo V. Fausto, president of the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food, Inc., told BusinessWorld in a Viber message.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday that headline inflation accelerated to 7.2% in April from 4.1% in March, driven largely by faster increases in food prices.

Food inflation quickened to 6.1% in April from 2.7% a month earlier and 0.7% a year ago.

The PSA said the higher food inflation was driven by a faster annual increase in rice prices, which surged to 13.7% in April from 3.5% in March.

Other food groups that posted higher inflation included corn (21% in April from 12.3% in March); fish and other seafoods (9.4% from 6.6%); fruits and nuts (6% from 4.7%); and vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas, and pulses (10.4% from 7%).

Analysts attributed the continued rise in food prices to higher fuel and fertilizer costs, as well as supply-side pressures.

Mr. Fausto said rising fuel prices have raised logistics costs across the food supply chain.

“The increase in fuel prices resulted in an increase in the cost of deliveries. As for food processors, logistics expenses together with availability and an increase in prices of raw materials contribute to the rise in inflation,” he said.

Former Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar told BusinessWorld that thin rice buffer stocks and weaker farm output also worsened food inflation.

“The buffer stock in rice is so thin, which is now impacting the market. There was also lower production during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year,” he said via Viber.

Former Agriculture Undersecretary Fermin D. Adriano said the latest inflation print was expected as cost pressures continue to build.

“The results are expected, particularly on food inflation due to rising fertilizer and fuel costs, which are actually at their initial stage,” he told BusinessWorld via Viber.

Mr. Adriano said inflationary pressures could intensify in the coming months, compounded by weather-related risks.

“We expect the full brunt of the adverse impacts of the Middle East war and the incoming El Niño in the second half of this year,” he said.

Mr. Dar said that continued fighting in the Middle East could further raise food inflation by 2.5 percentage points in the second quarter.

“If the war continues, then you can expect the food inflation to rise further by about 2.5 percentage points… by the end of the second quarter or even earlier,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture said it is rolling out measures to ease supply bottlenecks and curb rising food prices.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency said measures include the reestablishment of dedicated food lanes, the removal of toll fees for trucks transporting agricultural goods, and the reduction of port charges to accelerate deliveries and lower logistics costs.

“We have moved to provide financial aid to agri-truckers to help keep food prices affordable, and mobilized other offices to bring food from production hubs to markets,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said in the statement.

The department said it is also accelerating the rollout of its subsidized rice program, which offers rice at P20 per kilo to vulnerable sectors.

Mr. Laurel added that the government is prepared to impose a P50-per-kilo price cap on imported rice should price pressures persist.

STAGFLATION is now evident in the Philippines, an analyst said, as inflation accelerated to 7.2% in April while economic growth is expected to come in below 4% in the first quarter.

Patrick M. Ella, portfolio manager and economist at Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corp., said the over three-year-high inflation print coupled with expected sub-4% first quarter growth already points to stagflationary conditions.

“Stagflation is classically defined as negative economic growth and high inflation. But for Philippine standards, sub-4% is already, I think, stagflationary conditions for a high-growth economy like us,” he told Money Talks with Cathy Yang on One News on Tuesday.

The Philippine Statistics Authority on Tuesday reported that inflation rose to 7.2% from a year earlier, much faster than the 4.1% in March and 1.4% in the same month last year.

This was the fastest headline print since the 7.6% seen in March 2023, and also well-above the central bank’s 5.6%-6.4% estimate for the month.

“This is the highest (inflation) in three years, and I, in fact, looked at the monthly gain, and it is over 2.7%, which is quite high. So yes, stagflationary conditions are already evident,” Mr. Ella added.

He said economists have very low expectations for gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the first quarter, with his own estimate at 2.5%.

A BusinessWorld poll of 21 economists and analysts last week yielded a median estimate of 3.4% for the Philippine GDP growth in the first quarter.

If realized, GDP growth will be slower than the revised 5.4% expansion in the same period a year ago and fall short of the government’s 5-6% target this year.

First-quarter GDP data will be released on Thursday (May 7).

Mr. Ella said the factory activity will likely remain weak after the S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index fell to 48.3 in April, its first contraction in five months.

“I think that is expected to continue because of the huge input costs we saw in the last two months,” he said.

Other economists, however, cautioned against labeling the current environment as stagflation. Marco Antonio C. Agonia, an economist at the University of Asia and the Pacific, said the term is “too strong” to describe the situation.

“We use ‘stagflation’ in describing double-digit inflation, unemployment and negative GDP growth figures. What we’re seeing now is a combination of the lingering impacts of the flood control scandal and a global oil shock,” he said.

He said the definite stagflation scenario depicts a prolonged string of negative or near-zero GDP growth along with double-digit inflation and unemployment.

“The last time the Philippines fit that profile was during the political and economic turmoil of the 1980s. For now, the economy is downbeat but somewhat stable and with robust jobs performance,” Mr. Agonia said.

“Besides, we may see faster growth in the second half of this year when government infrastructure spending returns,” he added.

The unemployment rate fell to a two-month low of 5.1% in February, down from 5.8% posted in January but higher than the 3.8% reading in the same month last year.

March jobless data will be out on May 6.

Jonathan L. Ravelas, senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co., said the April inflation print is “a yellow flag, not a red card.”

“This isn’t stagflation yet… inflation remains sticky — mainly due to food and utilities — but economic growth has not stalled and employment is still holding up,” he said.

“What we’re seeing is inflation fatigue, not stagnation. The key now is targeted supply-side fixes, especially on food, rather than overly aggressive tightening. The risk is real, but it’s still manageable,” he added.

On the other hand, Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes, senior research fellow at the Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development, said the country is showing early warning signs of stagflation.

“If high inflation persists, and growth weakens further, then it could tip into genuine stagflation,” he said. “Nevertheless, right now, it is more accurate to say that the Philippines is experiencing a shock-driven inflation surge with softening (not stalled) growth and rising (but not yet realized) stagflation risk.”

He said a true stagflation scenario would mean at least two consecutive quarters of inflation above 5-6%, GDP growth below 2%, rising unemployment, falling real wages, and stagnant investment — all happening simultaneously.

Meanwhile, Asian Development Bank Chief Economist Albert Park said the Philippines’ prospects should not be discounted too quickly, noting the country and other economies in the region have been the “most resilient and dynamic part of the global economy.”

“I think they may need some help getting through this period of adjustment, but the fundamentals still, I think, are in the right direction,” he said in an CNBC interview on Tuesday, citing the Philippines’ big investments in infrastructure and renewable energy.

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said it will implement necessary measures to keep prices stable “within a reasonable time” after headline inflation accelerated past expectations in April.

“The BSP is committed to fulfilling its primary mandate of slow inflation and will take necessary actions to ensure inflation returns to its 3% target within a reasonable time,” the central bank said in a statement on Tuesday.

“It will remain vigilant for spillover effects, data-driven, and ready to act as needed,” it added.

This comes after the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that inflation sizzled in April to a three-year high of 7.2%, faster than the 4.1% in March and 1.4% in the same month last year. 

The BSP had expected inflation to settle between 5.6% and 6.4%, while 17 analysts polled by BusinessWorld had a median forecast of 5.5%.

At its April 23 meeting, the BSP ended its nearly two-year easing cycle with a 25-basis point (bp) rate hike, bringing the key policy rate to 4.25%.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. at that time said that they are ready to raise interest rates as much as needed to tame inflation despite its expected impact on domestic growth.

Asian Development Bank Chief Economist Albert Park said the BSP should exercise caution in tightening policy, as the current crisis is largely supply-driven. However, the BSP may need to uphold its price stability mandate if elevated energy costs start spilling over into the prices of other goods and services.

“(O)nce we see the high energy prices, and also the high price of other inputs like fertilizer, or like inputs into the petrochemical industry, into semiconductors, helium, sulfur, we will start to see those higher costs work their way through into higher prices finally,” Mr. Park told CNBC on Tuesday.

“And if that starts to happen and price expectations start to change across the different goods and services that are being produced, then the government may want to — the central banks — may want to start then to consider trying to reduce those inflationary expectations which is really their role,” he added.

OFF-CYCLE MOVE?
Analysts said the central bank may deliver larger rate hikes or raise rates in an off-cycle move amid rising inflation risks after the upside surprise.

ING Regional Head of Research for Asia-Pacific Deepali Bhargava said another 25-bps rate increase is now a “done deal,” with the odds for a 50-bp hike and an off-cycle move rising.   

“Inflation pressures have become increasingly broad based, with food and fuel shocks feeding into core inflation and services, raising the risk of more persistent second round effects,” she said in a commentary on Tuesday. “In this context, a 25-bp rate hike in June looks assured, with risks clearly tilted toward a 50-bp move.”    

ING’s base case now forecasts a total of 75 bps in rate hikes, with a more aggressive stance likely to follow should the Middle East war last longer.

Bank of the Philippine Islands Lead Economist Emilio S. Neri, Jr. said inflation could quicken to a double-digit pace later this year, which could call for a more aggressive central bank.     

“The BSP may deliver rate hikes larger than the typical 25 bps, either in a regular or off-cycle meeting, with a more forceful move potentially required to rein in inflation expectations,” he said in a separate note.

“While tighter monetary policy could weigh on growth by raising the cost of financing capital expenditures, the economic damage from persistently elevated inflation may be more severe, justifying a more aggressive policy response,” Mr. Neri added.

Meanwhile, Nomura Global Markets Research analysts Euben Paracuelles and Nabila Amani expect the central bank to lift borrowing costs by 25 bps in each of its meetings in June, August and October to bring the benchmark rate to 5.25%.   

Nomura raised its 2026 estimate for headline inflation to 6.1% from 4.9% and for core inflation to 4.6% from 3.8% previously.   

“(The April) inflation outturn has likely increased BSP’s concerns over inflation expectations and second-round effects, which are likely to be assessed by BSP as becoming more evident from the further pickup in core inflation, in our view,” Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani said.    

However, they see the BSP reversing its hikes to deliver 75 bps in cuts in the second half of 2027 as they expect inflation to stabilize. 

The BSP projects the headline print to stay above 5% for most of the year. It had also upwardly revised its full-year forecast to 6.3% from 5.1% previously.

The Monetary Board will hold its next policy meeting on June 18.

ELEVATED oil prices continued to feed into food and utility costs, pushing annual inflation to a three-year high of 7.2% in April, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Tuesday.

Faster-than-expected inflation now puts more pressure on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) which earlier signaled that it could keep hiking interest rates as needed to temper inflation amid the oil crisis.

 PSA data showed that the consumer price index (CPI) accelerated to 7.2% in April, from 4.1% in March and 1.4% a year ago.   

This was the fastest headline print since the 7.6% seen in March 2023, and also well-above the central bank’s 5.6%-6.4% estimate for the month. 

It also blew past the estimates of 17 analysts in a BusinessWorld poll, where the median forecast was at 5.5%.

Month on month, inflation sped up to 2.6%, the fastest since the 3.4% recorded in January 2000. 

National Statistician Claire Dennis S. Mapa noted that faster price increases in food and nonalcoholic beverages, transport, and utilities drove the CPI higher last month.

April marked the second consecutive month that the headline print accelerated past the BSP’s 2%-4% target.   

As of April, inflation averaged 3.9%, a tad below the upper end of the BSP’s full-year goal.   

Despite fuel price rollbacks, transport inflation was faster at 21.4% in April from 9.9% in March.   

This as gasoline inflation quickened to 59.6% in April from 27.3% in the prior month and diesel to 122.7% from the revised 59.6% in March. This was the highest reading for both petroleum products since the CPI rebasing in 2018.

Last month, fuel retailers implemented price cuts after back-to-back hikes since the Middle East war erupted in late February.   

Month on month, pump price adjustments stood at a net decrease of P0.58 per liter for gasoline, P28.18 per liter for diesel and P17.71 per liter for kerosene.

As of end-April, the cost of gasoline ranged between P72.53 and P104.93 a liter, diesel from P75.93 to P101.96 a liter and kerosene from P125.39 to P147.98 a liter. These prices were still significantly higher than a year ago.

Inflation for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) surged to 45.8% in April from the revised 3.7% in March, even as the government suspended the excise tax on LPG and kerosene.

Inflation for housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels also picked up to 8.2% in April from the revised 4.7% the previous month.   

In April, Manila Electric Co. raised electricity rates by 53.35 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh), bringing the overall rate for the month to P14.3496 per kWh. 

High fuel costs spilled over into food prices in April, bringing inflation for the heavily weighted food and nonalcoholic beverage index to 6% from the revised 2.9% in March.   

This was attributed to the 11.1% inflation in cereals and cereal products (from 3.6% in March); 9.4% in fish and other seafood (from 6.6%); and 10.4% in vegetables, tubers, and the like (from 7%).

Meanwhile, rice inflation remained in positive territory for a second month in a row, accelerating to 13.7% from 3.6% a month ago.   

Based on PSA data, the average per-kilogram (kg) cost of local regular milled rice climbed by 15.95% to P51.53 in the second half of April from P44.44 a year earlier. The price of well-milled rice also grew by 15.32% year on year to P58.88 from P51.06 per kg, while the price of special rice went up by 9.8% to P66.23 per kg from P60.32 per kg.

PESO DEPRECIATION
PSA’s Mr. Mapa noted that the peso depreciation also drove up inflation and weakened the peso’s purchasing power.

Last month, the local unit touched the P61-a-dollar level for the first time, plunging to a new all-time low close of P61.567 against the greenback on April 29.

“Our diesel and gasoline are priced in US dollars, of course, that’s why it had an impact on the price, which in turn had a direct impact on our inflation rate and, of course, on the purchasing power of the peso,” Mr. Mapa said.

“So, the impact of the peso’s weakening contributed to the rise in the price of inputs, particularly the ones we import, and it has impacted the inflation rate, among others,” he added.

According to the PSA, the purchasing power of peso, or the value of each P1, continued to drop to a new record-low of 73 centavos in April. This brings the value of P100 in 2018 to just P73 now.

The PSA also reported that core inflation, which strips out volatile food and fuel prices, picked up to 3.9% in April from 3.2% in March and 2.2% a year earlier. This was the highest core print since the 4.4% logged in December 2023.   

In the National Capital Region (NCR), inflation quickened to 5.5% in April from the revised 3.5% in March and 2.4% in the prior year.

Inflation in areas outside NCR was also faster at 7.7% in April, from 4.2% a month earlier and 1.2% last year.

Meanwhile, inflation for the bottom 30% of income households accelerated to its fastest pace in over three years at 8.5% in April, from 4.2% in March and 0.1% in the same month last year.

In a statement, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development said the administration is “intensifying targeted interventions,” after inflation sizzled last month.

“Amid the Middle East conflict disrupting fuel supply chains, the government is intensifying targeted interventions, particularly to temper upward price pressures on food, energy, and transport, while ensuring the continued stability of domestic supply,” Economy Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said. 

MORE RATE HIKES?
Meanwhile, Chinabank Research said the BSP will likely hike rates anew but has limited room for aggressive tightening as rising inflation will soon drag economic growth.

It now projects the headline print to hold above 7% in the coming months, with the full-year clip likely to end at around 6%.

“We expect the BSP to raise rates further. However, elevated inflation will continue to weigh on consumption and growth, constraining the BSP’s ability to hike rates aggressively and placing greater responsibility on the government to curb additional inflationary pressures,” Chinabank Research said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the BSP could extend its rate-hike cycle, much like during the 2022 oil crisis triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“There is a possibility of BSP rate hike/s, similar to the previous cycle four years ago, in an effort nip inflationary pressures at the bud and better manage inflation and prevent it from spiraling further… even if the unintended consequences include slowing down the economy,” he said in a Viber message. 

At its April 23 meeting, the central bank ended its nearly two-year easing cycle with a 25-basis-point rate hike, which brought the key policy rate to 4.25%. This marked its first tightening move since October 2023.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. at that time said that they could hike rates as much as needed to keep prices stable despite its expected impact on domestic growth.

The BSP sees inflation hovering above 5% for most of the year to average 6.3% by end-2026. This was higher than its earlier forecast of 5.1%.

Meanwhile, Jose Enrique “Sonny” A. Africa, executive director of the think tank IBON Foundation, said the faster April inflation clip reflects lapses in the government’s response to the over two-month long energy crisis. 

“The Marcos Jr. (administration) didn’t create the oil shock, but its refusal to cut oil taxes and control oil firm overpricing is making sure that tens of millions of poor, low-income and middle-class Filipinos fully absorb it,” he said in a Facebook post on Tuesday.

“The latest inflation figures clearly underscore how the (government’s) response is too slow, reaches too few, and gives too little,” he added.

“2026’s hottest pop star.” – PAPER Magazine

“Larsson delivers her most radiant body of work.” – Rolling Stone

“This is the moment when Larsson is finally coming intom view as pop’s main girl.” – VOGUE

“A new household name in the main pop girl zeitgeist” – Billboard

“The album of the summer.” – GQ (Best of 2025)

GRAMMY®-nominated pop superstar Zara Larsson keeps the global party going with Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, a collection of remixes and collaborations that gives new life to her already famously vibrant songs. Revisiting each track from her breakthrough album Midnight Sun, Zara invites a worldwide all-woman cast of friends and faves to an inclusive celebration that crosses borders, genres, and vibes for an unforgettable excursion into free-wheeling self-expression.

The artists joining Zara on the set span diverse sounds and countries of origin, and range from absolute icons to rising stars to indie tastemakers: Shakira, Robyn, Tyla, PinkPantheress, Kehlani, JT, Madison Beer, Emilia, Helena Gao, Margo XS, BAMBII, Malibu, and Eli. Watch visualizers for every song HERE now, and stream or purchase Midnight Sun: Girls Trip right HERE via Epic Records / Sommer House.

The album opens on a new version of “Midnight Sun” that continues the creative kinship of Zara and PinkPantheress over a beat that blends the former’s radiant dance-pop with the latter’s propulsive UK garage-inflected sound. A song later, Kehlani joins for a lush R&B take on the romantic “Blue Moon,” before JT drops a blistering verse on the rowdy, Margo XS-remixed “Pretty Ugly.” Later, Shakira helps transform “Eurosummer” into a jet-setting club cut, Tyla doubles the diva heat on “Hot & Sexy,” and Robyn brings her legendary presence to “Puss Puss.” Zara sprinkles shiny new vocals throughout.

In truth, as the songs shape-shift through styles, tempos, textures, and even languages, there’s never a dull moment on Midnight Sun: Girls Trip. As she wrangled an international array of top-tier talent, Zara worked closely with Margo XS and MNEK to craft the project — two members of the tight, trusted team with whom she created 2025’s original Midnight Sun (also including Gao and Zhone), an album that was not only her most authentic and expressive yet, but which has since racked up nearly universal praise.

Zara’s runaway success in the wake of Midnight Sun made Girls Trip possible. In February, she scored a career-first GRAMMY® nomination for “Midnight Sun” (Best Dance Pop Recording), while also in the midst of what Billboard called “a major Hot 100 comeback.” Now the #24 artist in the world on Spotify, she currently has four singles on the Billboard Hot 100: the viral “Lush Life” (peaking at #35, video approaching 1 billion views), “Midnight Sun” (#39), and her earlier PinkPantheress team-up “Stateside” (#6), which hit #1 on the Billboard Global 200 and Spotify’s Global Top 50 after U.S. figure-skating champ Alysa Liu did a routine to the song during the Winter Olympics. This week, Tyla’s aptly titled “She Did It Again” featuring Zara entered at #59.

This past Wednesday, Zara was honored with the Breakthrough Award at Billboard’s Women in Music ceremony. In an interview that came out this month celebrating the news, Billboard called Midnight Sun the “album that’s made her a new household name in the main pop girl zeitgeist.” Their words joined similar raves from outlets including PAPER, Rolling Stone, VOGUE, GQ, Pitchfork, NYLON, and more. She just scored five American Music Awards nominations, too: Breakthrough Pop Artist, Breakthrough Album of the Year, Song of the Summer, Collaboration of the Year, and Social Song of the Year.

Zara also won praise for her recently wrapped, fully sold-out first North American headlining tour. Inspired by her U.S. breakthrough, The New Yorker published a profile this month titled “Zara Larsson Gets Her Flowers,” noting “on the Midnight Sun tour, the Swedish artist makes a comeback that feels like a debut.” In a victory lap of sorts, Zara discusses her whirlwind year in a new in-depth episode of Call Her Daddy.

Showing no signs of slowing down, Zara will embark next month on a jam-packed summer festival run that includes Lollapalooza Chicago, BBC’s Radio 1 Big Weekend, and a staggering series of European dates. In September, the Midnight Sun Tour officially continues — first with a just-announced concert at Los Angeles’ beloved Greek Theatre, and then with an Australia/New Zealand arena leg. Presale for the latter sold out in less than 2 hours, and more than 6 months in advance. Find her full itinerary below.

If Midnight Sun was inspired by the feeling of an endless summer night in Zara’s native Stockholm, then Midnight Sun: Girls Trip is what happens when that night rolls into an infinite season of pure pop energy where everyone is invited. As Zara herself recently noted, “This is just the beginning of Girls Trip!!!”

Zara Larsson, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip

1. “Midnight Sun” with PinkPantheress

2. “Blue Moon” with Kehlani

3. “Pretty Ugly” with JT and Margo XS

4. “Girl’s Girl” with Emilia

5. “Crush” with Eli

6. “Eurosummer” with Shakira

7. “Hot & Sexy” with Tyla

8. “The Ambition” with Madison Beer and BAMBII

9. “Saturn’s Return” with Malibu and Helena Gao

10. “Puss Puss” with Robyn

About Zara Larsson

“Summer isn’t over yet” is more than a lyric from Zara Larsson’s perennial hit “Midnight Sun” — it’s a statement of purpose. A decade after dropping her first international single, 2015’s “Lush Life,” the GRAMMY-nominated Swedish sensation is taking her rightful place in the zeitgeist as a Main Pop Girl. In 2026, while her sold-out tour raged onward, she lodged three songs in the Hot 100: the recently viral “Lush Life” (#35, video nearing 1B views), “Midnight Sun” (#39), and PinkPantheress collab “Stateside” (#6, and #1 on the Global 200). All of that followed hot on the heels of Midnight Sun, Zara’s fourth, truest, and most vibrant album to date, made with a tight trusted team (MNEK, Margo XS, Helena Gao, Zhone) and unafraid to show all sides of the star: lovestruck, wistful, ambitious, flippant, fun, uncertain — often in the same breath. If that radiant LP was inspired by the feeling of an endless summer night in Stockholm, then the globe-trotting remix album, Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, is what happens when that night rolls into an infinite season of pure pop energy where everyone is invited. For the reinvented set, Zara opens up her acclaimed album and shouts, “GET IN, GIRL!” to a worldwide all-woman lineup including icons like Shakira, Robyn, Tyla, Kehlani, PinkPantheress, JT, and more. The collection crosses borders, genres, and vibes for a series of unforgettable musical moments of authentic self-expression, diverse artistry, and total hands-up, top-down, open-air freedom.

A goofy group of townies stumbles into superpowers and fights rising evil as doomsday panic grows in this wild, turn-of-the-century action comedy. It follows a group of “flawed” local misfits in 1999 who unexpectedly gain superpowers and fight villains threatening Haeseong city. The series stars Park Eun-bin and Cha Eun-woo.

The WONDERfools is coming May 15, only on Netflix

#Netflix #TheWonderFools #원더풀스

About Netflix

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time. 

Don’t miss the premiere of hit movies “Wuthering Heights” starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, Bugonia featuring Emma Stone, and The Running Man with Glen Powell and Josh Brolin on HBO Max. Also stream new Japanese live-action drama series, Song of the Samurai based on beloved manga “Chiruran: Shinsengumi Requiem,” starring Yuki Yamada and Shuhei Uesugi.

This May, catch your favorite Korean stars in a lineup of comedy series, from Kim Go-eun in Yumi’s Cells Season three, Shin Hae-sun in Filing for Love and The Legend of Kitchen Soldier,starring Park Ji-hoon, as he becomes a legendary cook in the army while completing game-like commands that mysteriously appear only to him, to Fifties Professionals with Shin Ha-kyun, all available to stream on HBO Max.

FEATURED MOVIES ON HBO MAX

• “Wuthering Heights”, premiering May 1
• The Running Man, premiering May 8 and will also be available on HBO on May 9 at 10pm PHT
• Bugonia, premiering May 15 and will also be available on HBO on May 16 at 9pm PHT
• Anemone, premiering May 29

FEATURED SERIES ON HBO MAX

• New episodes of Mr. Bean: The Animated Series, premiering May 4 / 18
• K-Everything, premiering May 9
• Song of the Samurai, premiering May 9
• Regular Show: The Lost Tapes, premiering May 11
• The Legend of Kitchen Soldier, premiering May 11
• Max Original On the Roam Season two, premiering May 14
• Fifties Professionals, premiering May 22
• Rick and Morty Season nine, premiering May 25

Stream new episodes of HBO Original Euphoria Season three every Monday, as well as the finales of Yumi’s Cells Season three on May 4, HBO Original Rooster on May 11, Hacks Season five on May 29 and Filing for Love on May 31.

FEATURED REALITY SERIES ON HBO MAX

• Discovery’s Naked and Afraid Season 19, premiering May 1
• HGTV’s 100 Day Dream Home Season seven, premiering May 13
• Food Network’s Baking Championship: Next Gen, premiering May 20
• ID’s The Many Lives of Benjaman Kyle, premiering May 26
• HGTV’s Junk or Jackpot, premiering May 27
• Discovery’s Port Control: Spain, premiering May 31

Subscribe to HBO Max at www.hbomax.com from only ₱149/month & ₱1,040/12 months and stream via your preferred device.

 &FRIENDS Festival, co-presented by Collective Minds, returns to Okada Manila this June 19 and 20 even bigger and better than before.

Leading this year’s iteration of the premier electronic dance music (EDM) festival in the Philippines are four of electronic music’s most commanding forces, including Galantis and Porter Robinson.

Filipino Excellence on the Global Stage

This year, the Filipino diaspora takes its place in the limelight; with headliners, subheadliners, and supporting acts all showcasing the indelible mark Filipino talent continues to make on the global electronic music community. 

Filipino-Japanese Alan Shirahama will serve as one of the headliners at &FRIENDS Festival 2026. The multifaceted entertainer and DJ has built one of the most unique cross-cultural careers in Asian music: both as the leader of GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE, one of Japan’s biggest J-Pop groups, and as a solo DJ on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list. Shirahama was appointed as a Philippines Tourism Ambassador in 2023, making his performance at &FRIENDS Festival one of the most culturally resonant bookings in the festival’s history.

Ian Asher is a Los Angeles-based DJ and producer whose polished blend of future bass and pop-leaning dance music has racked up hundreds of millions of streams and a collaboration with the “Kings of P-Pop” SB19. A familiar face on the international festival circuit, his return to Manila is a homecoming charged with meaning. Seduza is a US-based Filipino-Chinese DJ whose signature cat ears and fearlessly eclectic sets weave through trap, future bass, Jersey club, and house. Having graced stages from Coachella and Head in the Clouds to tours alongside Alesso, Steve Aoki, and Flosstradamus, she has built a distinct world around her brand that resonates as strongly on the dancefloor as it does in digital culture– channeling that influence into curating showcases that champion underground EDM’s next generation. Tye Turner rounds out the group as a Filipino-Australian DJ whose explosive stage presence and impeccable crowd-reading have made him a rising name on lineups across North America and Asia. Together, they represent a generation of Filipino artists no longer on the periphery of global dance music – they are at its center.

Other Filipinos added to the main stage are Marc Marasigan and L.A, together with international acts Ace Ramos, Afinity, Ami Mura, Arthur Tan, FAZAD, J, NGHTSHIFT b2b Jaidee b2b Dreamdriver — bringing the two-night Main Stage program to its final, stacked form.

With no shortage of Filipino talent standing at the helm, the 2026 &FRIENDS Festival is shaping up to be as much a celebration of the Philippines and its people as it is a jam-packed weekend of non-stop raving and electronic music appreciation.

Alongside the festival’s celebration of Filipino talent is a massive international roster flying into Manila from across the globe. New additions to the international line-up include headliner Adventure Club, the Grammy-nominated Canadian duo of Christian Srigley and Leighton James, whose remix of “Crave You” helped shape the sound of melodic dubstep and launched a career spanning mainstages at EDC, Ultra, and Bonnaroo– their &FRIENDS set marks their Philippines debut. Also making his first PH show is Aiobahn, a South Korean producer based between Seoul and Tokyo whose fusion of anime-inspired melodies, future bass, and hard-hitting production has earned him a devoted cult following via Monstercat and standout tracks like “INTERNET YAMERO.”

Not to be forgotten are the other previously announced headliners of the festival, who are some of the most famous, enduring names in electronic music today.

Night 1 – Porter Robinson and Subtronics:

Porter Robinson, a fan favorite in the Philippines, returns to Manila fresh off his biggest-ever international tour for SMILE ! :D. The Grammy-nominated artist’s influence on EDM stretches back to his 2014 debut Worlds, which topped Billboard’s Top Dance/Electronic Albums. Joining him is Subtronics, the bass music titan behind the FIBONACCI album and Cyclops Recordings, who made his Coachella debut in April 2026 and in 2023 was named the highest-selling North American electronic touring act by Pollstar and DJ Mag North America’s DJ of the Year.

Night 2 – Galantis and Yellow Claw:

Closing out the weekend are two acts that have shaped electronic music over the last two decades. Galantis, led by Swedish hitmaker Christian “Bloodshy” Karlsson, boasts 7.3 billion streams, anthems like “Runaway (U & I)” and “No Money,” and a Grammy-winning co-write on Britney Spears’ “Toxic.” Yellow Claw, the Dutch duo of Jim Taihuttu and Nils Rondhuis, match that pedigree with over a billion plays and a genre-defying catalog spanning trap, dubstep, hardstyle, and moombahton — arriving fresh off their fifth album, Jesus Loves Trap Music, released on their own Barong Family label in February 2026.

Across three stages, two nights, and more than 60 artists, &FRIENDS festival continues to deliver on its founding promise: world-class production, a carefully curated mix of global headliners and regional talent, and the kind of unforgettable, communal energy that has made it the defining electronic music event in the Philippines.

Besides the Main Stage, the Club Stage is where the festival bleeds into something rawer, deeper, and more unpredictable. Running deep into the early morning hours, it is the beating underground heart of &FRIENDS. Bandit, BENCH, Buns b2b Senza, Honey Gee, Ian Sndrz, James Landino b2b Kino, Jecht, KDH, Kluster Flux, MARGACHI, NOTDEADYET, Sseda, Sunday Sundae, Xenith, bring a combined depth of sound and scene credibility that will keep the dancefloor locked in from first set to last light.

New for 2026, the Friendship Stage introduces a series of label and collective takeovers representing the best of Asia’s EDM community. Orange Juice Asia x Planet Workshop is set to open Day One with a joint takeover, followed by sets from CLOUDNYT, RAW and Restored Bass. Day Two sees takeovers from Hidden Nights, Contrast, and Sweet & Sour, and Midnight Rebels — each crew bringing its own curated roster of back-to-back and face-to-face DJ sets that embody the collaborative spirit at the core of the &FRIENDS brand. It is a stage built on community, and a reminder that the best music often comes from the people closest to the dancefloor.

Tickets for &FRIENDS Festival may be purchased on Ticketmelon and AirAsia’s MoveTix. Single Day passes are available at Php 5,800 for General Admission and at Php 9,800 for VIP. Two-Day passes are available at Php 9,000 for General Admission and Php 15,000 for VIP. Barkada Bundles for groups of five people are available at Php 23,200 for General Admission and Php 36,000 for VIP.

About &FRIENDS Festival

&FRIENDS Festival is the premier electronic dance music festival in Manila, known for bringing world-class talent and next-level production to the Philippines. Since its debut, the festival has hosted some of the biggest names in global dance music, including Zedd, Illenium, Seven Lions, and Knock2, establishing itself as a cornerstone event for fans across the region. With a focus on community, discovery, and unforgettable live experiences, &FRIENDS Festival continues to set the standard for festival culture in Southeast Asia.

&FRIENDS Festival 2026 Lineup

Headliners

• Galantis
• Porter Robinson
• Subtronics
• Yellow Claw
• Adventure Club
• Alan Shiraham

Subheadliners

• ARMNHMR
• ARCANDO
• WUKONG
• KIARA
• CHYL
• Ian Asher
• Siangyoo
• Afinity
• Seduza
• Tye Turner
• Aiobahn
• BONNIE X CLYDE
• Hoang b2b Fairlane
• Full Squad Gaming

Regional Support

• Amanda Sze
• DJ Cupcakes
• Orange Juice Asia
• Smooth Brain Girly
• Ace Ramos f2f Marc Marasigan
• Ami Mura
• Arthur Tan
• FAZAD
• J
• L.A
• NGHTSHIFT b2b Jaidee b2b Dreamdriver

Club Stage

• Bandit
• BENCH
• Buns b2b Senza
• Honey Gee
• Ian Sndrz
• James Landino b2b Kino
• Jecht
• KDH
• Kluster Flux
• MARGACHI
• NOTDEADYET
• Sseda
• Sunday Sundae
• Xenit

Friendship Stage

• Orange Juice Asia x Planet Workshop
• CLOUDNYT
• RAW
• Restored Bass
• Hidden Nights
• Contrast
• Sweet & Sour
• Midnight Rebels

Ticketing Information

Tickets are available for purchase on Ticketmelon and AirAsia’s MoveTix.

SINGLE DAY GENERAL ADMISSION – Php 5,800
SINGLE DAY VIP – Php 9,800
TWO-DAY GENERAL ADMISSION – Php 9,000
TWO-DAY VIP – Php 15,000
GENERAL ADMISSION BARKADA BUNDLE (5 PAX) – Php 23,200
VIP BARKADA BUNDLE (5 PAX) – Php 36,000

The songbayanan from Calumpit, Bulacan successfully took home the P1 million jackpot prize in the newest season of “Everybody Sing” after correctly guessing all 10 songs in the jackpot round of the episode last Sunday (May 3).

With only five seconds left on the clock, the group secured their victory after Leslie identified the final song, “Pangarap Lang” by Yeng Constantino.

According to host Vice Ganda, the prize will be a big help to the group as they continue to face challenges brought by recurring flooding in their community.

Aside from the jackpot prize, the group also won an additional P60,000 with the help of celebrity guest Bela Padilladuring the “Singko Blanko” round, wherein she and four other represingtatives completed three lines of the song “Pare Ko.”

Comedians Petite and Iyah Mina joined the pilot weekend as co-hosts alongside Vice. Meanwhile, “Your Face Sounds Familiar” Season 4 grand winners JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano also joined the Songbayanan for a special jam session.

Catch new episodes of “Everybody Sing” every Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 PM, on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, iWant, and Kapamilya Online Live on the ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel.

The ceremony was led by Supreme Council Supreme Archivist Sir Alexander A. Onia, alongside Switzerland Area Commander Sir Stephan Urs Breu and Luzern Chapter Commander Sir Yenz Salangsang.

The program featured the induction of new Knights and recognition of members for their contributions. The Ladies of Rizal Switzerland conducted their oath-taking ceremony, alongside the revival of the Medal of Honor from the organization’s headquarters.

In a message delivered on behalf of Supreme Commander Sir Emmanuel Calairo, the Order reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Rizalian ideals globally.

The event also showcased humanitarian initiatives in the Philippines focused on education, civic engagement, and community development.

Last March 29, 2026, the spirit of true Budo came alive during the 2026 JKA Philippines Friendship Game—a remarkable event that brought together the heart and soul of
traditional shotokan karate in one unforgettable gathering.

This year’s Friendship Game was made even more meaningful as we celebrated the 79th Birthday of Shihan Ruperto Torres, the esteemed Owner & Chairman of JKA Lipa City. His lifelong dedication to karate continues to inspire generations of practitioners.
 
Strength in Numbers, Power in Unity
With the support of 19 dojos and the participation of nearly 300 competitors, the event went beyond competition—it became a platform to unite the traditional shotokan karate community and strengthen our shared commitment to authentic Budo karate.

Guided by the principles of the Japan Karate Association Philippines, the event upheld its mission to elevate the standard of traditional shotokan karate toward the level of the JKA World Federation HQ in Tokyo, Japan.

Gratitude to Our Community
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the parents, officials, athletes, coaches, senseis, and supporters whose passion and dedication made this event a resounding success.

A special thank you to JKA Philippines Chairman, Shihan Lito Luague (6th Dan), for his unwavering support and for conducting the Dan Examinations, which proudly produced 4 new Shodans for JKA Lipa City. Your leadership continues to guide and uplift our karate family.

Looking Ahead
The journey doesn’t stop here! Next year’s Friendship Game promises to be even more exciting as we celebrate a milestone—the 80th Birthday of Shihan Ruperto Torres. We can’t wait to see everyone once again for another inspiring gathering of karateka.

Until then—train hard, stay humble, and keep the spirit of Budo alive. Oss!

Designed for both leisure and business travelers, the inn features well-appointed Standard and Deluxe Rooms, thoughtfully designed to provide relaxation after a day of exploring the natural wonders of Puerto Princesa City.

One of its standout attractions is its café and bar overlooking the bay, where guests can indulge in refreshments while enjoying the golden hues of the sunset — a daily spectacle that frames the renowned yacht club and surrounding coastline.

Convenience is at the core of TopView Inn’s appeal. Located just 15 minutes from the Puerto Princesa International Airport and the city center, guests have easy access to transportation, dining, and key tourist destinations.

Why Visit TopView Inn Puerto Princesa?

• Prime bayfront location with uninterrupted sunset views
• Directly across the Abanico Yacht Club
• Cozy and modern Standard & Deluxe accommodations
• Scenic café & bar perfect for relaxing evenings
• Quick access to the airport and city proper

Contact Information

Email: randmbuilding2023@gmail.com
Phone: 0968 559 5119
Facebook: TopView Inn Puerto Princesa

Whether you’re visiting Palawan for adventure, relaxation, or a romantic escape, TopView Inn Puerto Princesa offers an experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. With its picturesque setting and thoughtful amenities, it is poised to become one of the most charming stays in the region.

Discover your perfect sunset. Experience TopView Inn Puerto Princesa today.

By Tomas Kauer

Distinguished resource speakers provided insights into key aspects of the Order’s mission and governance.

• Sir Felino Paras, KGCR, discussed the role of elders, counterpart organizations, and the chain of command within the Order.
• Sir Antonio Guansing, KGCR, delivered a presentation on the awards and medals system of the organization.
• Sir Rodolfo Nollas, KGCR, spoke on the vision and mission of the Knights of Rizal.
• Sir Albert Arevalo, KGCR, presented on the organization’s core purpose and objectives.
• Sir Alfonso Taguiang, KGCR, continued the discussion on the Order’s broader objectives and programs.
  
  

The ceremonial oath-taking was presided over by Europe Regional Commander Sir  Juanito Villa, KGOR, with the assistance of Deputy Regional Commander Sir Generoso Rebong, KGOR. The oath of office for newly appointed regional officers was administered by Sir Jaime V. Ledda, KGOR, Ambassador and senior member of the Order.

The program featured ceremonial traditions of the Order, including the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, the Rizalian Pledge, and the Knights of Rizal Hymn. Newly appointed deputy regional commanders, area commanders, and special assistants serving various jurisdictions across Europe formally took their oath of office during the ceremony.

The leadership team of the Knights of Rizal Europe Region includes:

• Sir Juanito Villa, KGOR – Regional Commander
• Sir Generoso Rebong, KGOR – Deputy Regional Commander
• Sir Geert Verhaegen, KGOR – Area Commander, Belgium
• Sir Eufracio Sale, KCR – Area Commander, Germany
• Sir Carlos Simbillo, KGOR – Area Commander, Italy
• Sir Anton Lutter, KCR – Area Commander, Netherlands
• Sir Stephan Breu, KGOR – Area Commander, Switzerland and Poland
• Sir Ronald Sipat, KGOR – Area Commander, United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland
  
  

Additional officers from Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, and the United Kingdom were also recognized for their leadership roles and contributions to advancing Rizalian programs throughout the region.

The ceremony concluded with the fraternal sign led by the Regional Commander, followed by the singing of Pilipinas Kong Mahal, a commemorative photo session, and a fraternal dinner at 7:00 PM that celebrated unity and camaraderie among members.

Through continued regional collaboration and leadership engagement, the Knights of Rizal Europe Region reaffirmed its commitment to promoting nationalism, civic virtue, and humanitarian service inspired by the teachings and legacy of Dr. José Rizal among Filipinos and friends of the Philippines across Europe.

About the Knights of Rizal

The Order of the Knights of Rizal is a civic and patriotic organization chartered under Republic Act 646 of the Philippines. The Order is dedicated to honoring and upholding the life, works, and ideals of José Rizal, fostering patriotism, civic responsibility, and humanitarian service among its members worldwide.

Non Omnis Moriar

The landmark event marked a powerful new chapter for Filipinos in Switzerland, celebrating Filipino heritage, identity, and the enduring legacy of Philippine national hero José Rizal.

Set against the historic elegance of the lakeside castle, guests were captivated by the significance of the occasion, the unveiling of the organization’s modern and distinctive logo, and the grace and beauty of participants dressed in traditional Filipiniana attire. The ceremony blended heritage and modern vision, reflecting the organization’s mission to carry Rizal’s ideals into the future.

Michelle Ngo Salangsang recalled that in 2011, she and her husband moved to Switzerland, which they now proudly call home. This year marked a meaningful milestone for their family as they were granted Swiss citizenship—an achievement she described as both humbling and empowering.

Yet despite building a life abroad, Salangsang emphasized that Filipino identity remains deeply rooted in their hearts.

“Wherever we go, our Filipino heart remains steadfast,” she said. “We are proud of our soil. Proud of our bloodline. Proud of our story.”

She reminded attendees that the gathering represented something far greater than a ceremonial event.

“Today is not merely a ceremony. It is a promise to the future.”

Drawing inspiration from the life of José Rizal, Salangsang reflected on how the national hero demonstrated that ideas and courage could transform a nation.

Through his groundbreaking novels Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo, Rizal awakened national consciousness among Filipinos and courageously exposed injustices during the colonial era.

Unlike many revolutionaries of his time, Rizal fought not with weapons but with truth, intellect, and moral courage. His essays, novels, and letters ignited hope among Filipinos and opened the eyes of the world to the injustices faced by his people.

That courage came at great cost. Rizal endured exile and persecution before ultimately sacrificing his life for the dignity and freedom of his countrymen. He was executed at Bagumbayan (Luneta), a defining moment that forever shaped Philippine history.

“His martyrdom was not an accident of history,” Salangsang said. “It was a conscious sacrifice. He chose principle over comfort. He chose country over self.”

Yet even in the face of injustice, Rizal’s final message to his people was one of hope, love, and faith in the future—particularly in the youth.

“Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan,” Rizal famously declared—the youth are the hope of the nation.

Part of this mission includes promoting Philippine tourism by inviting the world to experience the country’s extraordinary natural beauty—from the pristine beaches of Boracay, to the breathtaking Banaue Rice Terraces, and the crystal-clear waters of Palawan.

“The Philippines is not just a destination,” Salangsang said. “It is an experience of warmth, color, music, and soul.”

The organization also underscored its commitment to promoting the Filipino language and cultural traditions as essential elements in preserving identity and strengthening the connection among Filipinos worldwide.

The ceremony concluded with heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors whose support helped make the historic event possible. Special recognition was given to Sir Yenz Salangsang KCR, ELF for Health, Jet’s Wok, Philair Logistics, Kabayan Corner, Jaden’s International, KOR Switzerland, Athea Couture, and De MOi Conscious Beauty for their valuable contributions.

The Ladies of Rizal Switzerland also extended special appreciation to distinguished honorary guests including H. E. Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy, Ambassador of the Philippines to Switzerland and Liechtenstein; Stephan Urs Breu, KGOR; and Sir Yenz Salangsang, KCR.

Gratitude was likewise extended to Honorary Designer Lady Jocelyn Gacad of the Kababaihang Rizalista Milan for her contribution to the cultural fashion show that followed the ceremony, highlighting Filipino elegance and tradition.

The organization also warmly acknowledged the support of the Knights of Rizal Lucerne and fellow Ladies of Rizal chapters, whose presence symbolized unity, solidarity, and the shared mission of keeping Rizal’s ideals alive across borders.

As the evening concluded, one message resonated clearly: even thousands of kilometers from the Philippines, the spirit of José Rizal continues to inspire Filipinos to carry their heritage with pride and purpose.