In a report on Wednesday, Chinabank Research said the National Government’s (NG) proposed sin taxes, if implemented, could stoke inflation to as fast as 4.5% next year.

“The proposal in its current form could add as much as 0.3 ppt (percentage point) to headline inflation in 2027, assuming it is passed this year and implemented at the start of 2027,” it said. “Including potential second-round effects, the impact could reach around 0.6 ppt.”

Chinabank said it expects inflation to average 3.9% in 2027.

“If fully passed on to consumers, the proposed tax increases could push headline inflation above the BSP’s upper target, reaching around 4.2% from first-round effects and up to 4.5% once second-round effects are included,” it said.

This means inflation could blow past the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 4% ceiling next year. The BSP sees inflation breaching its 3% target over the next three years, at 6.1% this year, 5.4% in 2027, and 3.3% in 2028.

The Department of Finance (DoF) wants Congress to approve the Promoting Growth, Revenue, and Equity towards Socio-economic Sustainability (ProGRESS) bill, which includes a revision of income tax exemption thresholds and imposition of higher or new sin taxes.

Under the current proposal, the excise tax on beverages with caloric or noncaloric sweeteners would more than triple to P20 per liter from P6, while the levy on beverages using high-fructose corn syrup would climb to P40 per liter from P1.

The package also introduces a higher levy on beverages using high-fructose corn syrup worth P40 per liter from P12.

The DoF likewise seeks to remove the excise tax exemption on ice cream, sorbets, ice lollies, and frozen yogurt and replace it with a P20-per-liter levy. This would result in a 9% price increase for edible ices.

For distilled spirits, the excise tax could rise to P157.21 per proof liter from P74.16, with the DoF proposing to tax premixed alcoholic beverages or alcopops as well. This means alcoholic beverages will be 20% costlier once the measure is enacted.

The DoF likewise wants to put a unified P72.93 excise tax rate per milliliter of salt nicotine, per two milliliters of freebase nicotine and per pack of 20 heated tobacco products, which would drive tobacco prices up by 3%.

“Although the measures could advance public health objectives by discouraging consumption of harmful products, higher excise taxes would likely be passed on to consumers, as observed following the Sin Tax Reform Law of 2012 and the TRAIN (Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion) law of 2017,” Chinabank said.

“Nevertheless, the inflationary impact should be relatively contained and largely concentrated in the affected product categories, with limited knock-on effects compared with broad-based shocks such as higher oil, electricity, or rice prices,” it added.

Chinabank said the DoF proposal also includes new taxes on automobiles and plastics, but this is expected to have limited direct impact given their smaller weights in the consumer price index (CPI) basket and the potential for consumers to shift to less-taxed alternatives.

OIL PRESSURES

Meanwhile, Japanese financial giant Nomura said Philippine inflation may heat up faster than earlier expected as renewed escalation of the Middle East war stokes oil prices, fueling second-order effects.

In a report dated Sept. 15, Nomura raised its inflation estimates to 5.8% from 5.1% for this year and to 4% from 3.9% for 2027.

“We now forecast average headline CPI inflation and core inflation in 2026 at a higher 5.8% (was 5.1%) and 4% (was 3.9%), respectively, due to our oil price assumption,” Nomura research analysts Euben Paracuelles and Nabila Amani said. “We also expect more persistent second-round effects from higher energy prices.”

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, cooled for a second month in a row as it settled at 4.1% in August from 4.2% in July.

According to the Nomura analysts, this was largely due to easing pressures from recreational services and education.

“However, items sensitive to high energy costs are still adjusting higher, including personal care and other services,” Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani added.

They noted this may warrant a fourth straight rate hike by the BSP, with potential further tightening as volatile oil prices and the “Super El Niño” add pressures.

“We reiterate our forecast for BSP to hike by another 25 bps (basis points) in October, but we continue to flag some risks it could deliver more thereafter,” Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani said.

“We believe BSP remains concerned about rising core inflation and emerging upside risks due (to) a combination of still-high uncertainty over oil prices and prospects of a strong El Niño,” they added.

This week, retail pump prices in Metro Manila breached the P100 handle, after oil firms raised gasoline by as much as P5.68 per liter, diesel by P4.31 per liter, and kerosene by P4.62 per liter.

The BSP said inflation will likely peak in the fourth quarter this year as the impact of the Super El Niño feeds into food prices, with risks also looming from volatile oil prices and the minimum wage hike.

Last month, the Monetary Board tightened for a third straight meeting as it sought to preemptively contain inflation risks. It raised its key policy rate by 25 bps to an over one-year high of 5%, bringing its cumulative hikes to 75 bps since it first tightened in April.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has left the door open for more hikes as needed to bring inflation closer to their 3% target, with their projected growth recovery providing them more wiggle room.

At the same time, Nomura kept its Philippine growth forecasts at 3.8% for 2026 and 5.6% for 2027, citing low base effects and the government’s catch-up spending that is expected to boost the economy in the latter half of the year.

“Concerns over politics, however, will likely linger, as the impeachment trial of VP (Vice-President) Sara Duterte continues,” Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani added.

Nomura’s growth estimates fall within the government’s 3.5%-4.5% target for this year, and 5%-6% target for next year.

According to the BSP, fiscal measures may propel the economy in the fourth quarter, with a full recovery expected by 2027. It likewise noted that the country’s medium-term economic fundamentals remain solid.

Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani said the central bank will likely remain measured in tightening monetary policy even as it remains vigilant about inflation risks.

The Monetary Board is scheduled to hold two more policy reviews this year on Oct. 22 and Dec. 17. — Katherine K. Chan

THE PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT has canceled its planned issuance of new fixed-rate Treasury notes (FXTN) this month as borrowing costs surged and the peso further weakened.

“Please be advised that the issuance of the five-year FXTN, as indicated in the schedule of Treasury bills and Treasury bonds issuances for the third quarter of 2026, is hereby cancelled,” the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said in a memorandum dated Sept. 15.

The BTr was initially scheduled to auction the new five-year FXTN on Sept. 22, while issuance was set for Sept. 24.

“(The cancellation) likely reflects Treasury’s decision to avoid locking in borrowing at elevated yields amid inflation, peso, and geopolitical pressures,” Philippine Institute for Development Studies Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera said in a Viber message.

The local unit touched a new record intraday low of P62.925 against the dollar on Sept. 15, while its record low close was at P62.86 on Sept. 14.

On Wednesday, the currency strengthened by 9.6 centavos to close the session at P62.739 versus the greenback from its P62.835 finish on Tuesday.

In August, headline inflation eased to a five-month low of 6.1% from 6.2% in July amid lower food and utility prices. However, it remained above the central bank’s 3% target for a sixth straight month, bringing the year-to-date average inflation to 5.2%.

Mr. Rivera noted the government will likely adjust the timing, tenor, and mix of its borrowings while waiting for better market conditions.

“This does not mean RTB (retail Treasury bonds) will also be canceled, since retail bonds have different demand dynamics. Decision will ultimately depend on pricing and investor appetite,” he said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said elevated Treasury yields make it more expensive for the government to borrow long term.

In a Viber message, Mr. Ricafort said the BTr can resort to issuing more T-bills and cash management bills (CMB) to satisfy demand for short-term borrowings.

The BTr revived its CMB offerings in June for the first time since the pandemic to help manage short-term liquidity needs amid elevated rates.

A trader said that the BTr will have to replace the jumbo issuance amid weak demand for longer-dated tenors. “As I mentioned before, their choice is to concentrate borrowing on shorter tenors.”

“It seems the five-year jumbo issuance is not appealing given the economic backdrop and external developments… Investors are naturally not comfortable investing in longer-term assets in anticipation of higher yields,” the trader said in a text message.

The trader said the government has been fulfilling its borrowing requirements mostly via short-term debt or T-bills.

Latest BTr data showed total gross borrowings rose by 20.2% to P2.113 trillion at end-July.

Of this, 73.27% or P1.548 trillion was domestic debt. It consisted of P1.157 trillion in fixed-rate Treasury bonds and P390.901 billion in net Treasury bills.

With the lack of appetite for a five-year paper, the trader said demand is unlikely to reach the government’s intended target for the issuance.

The government last issued fresh FXTN in February, where it raised an initial P235 billion from 10-year debt at its rate-setting auction.

The BTr wants to raise up to P380 billion from the domestic market this month — P250 billion via T-bills and P130 billion through T-bonds.

The government borrows from local and foreign sources to help fund its budget deficit, which is capped at P1.659 trillion or 5.4% of gross domestic product this year.

THE Philippines faces heightened economic risks from a potentially severe El Niño as a prolonged drought threatens agricultural production, food security, as well as water and energy supplies at a time when the government and households are still grappling with other external pressures.

Shombi Sharp, deputy executive secretary at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), said the Philippines is considered an El Niño hotspot, making it particularly vulnerable to prolonged dry conditions and drought.

“The history, unfortunately, demonstrates that the Philippines does face extremely high risk and vulnerability,” Mr. Sharp told BusinessWorld in an interview.

The strong El Niño episode in 2023-2024 inflicted P57.78 billion in agricultural losses, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Mr. Sharp said the current El Niño could become among the strongest on record and potentially persist into 2027, citing forecasts from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

“This is very, very concerning,” Mr. Sharp said. “I think it’s quite rare that we’ve had the data, the science looking so certain that an El Niño event would be extremely strong, potentially among the strongest on record, if not the strongest.”

The WMO said its forecasts indicate a near 100% likelihood that El Niño, a periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific, would persist through February 2027.

A very strong El Niño can significantly affect rainfall and temperature patterns around the world, as well as drive extreme weather, such as typhoons and droughts.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) earlier this month said the “Super El Niño” phenomenon is likely to persist until the first half of 2027 and projected to cause drought conditions in Camarines Sur and dry conditions and dry spells in 61 provinces.

Mr. Sharp said the impact on Philippine growth is difficult to quantify because it will depend on the severity and duration of El Niño and how early the government, businesses and communities respond.

He said El Niño could add to pressures already coming from geopolitical conflicts and supply chain disruptions.

“Conflict in the Middle East has disrupted supply chains. In the Philippines, for example, the economy relies a lot on remittances coming from overseas workers,” he said.

“The Gulf countries, which are an important source of remittances, have been negatively impacted by recent conflicts,” he added.

The Philippines could also be more exposed because of its reliance on food imports, particularly if drought reduces domestic production.

“Anything that puts pressure on domestic production obviously is going to create a situation where there are overlapping pressures and fiscal tightness,” Mr. Sharp said.

He said the government could limit the damage by acting early on weather forecasts, especially in agriculture, social protection, and water and energy management.

For agriculture, authorities and farmers could adjust planting calendars, expand the use of drought-resistant crops, and improve efficiency in the use of water and energy.

“So, basically food, water, energy. That’s going to be a big one,” he said.

The government should also strengthen social protection and safety nets for households most vulnerable to drought, including nutrition support and school feeding programs, Mr. Sharp said.

He noted that households already facing poverty and food insecurity would be among those most vulnerable to drought.

Mr. Sharp also called for more investment in climate adaptation, including disaster-resilient infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and climate-smart technologies.

“Investing in adaptation, let’s say resilience to climate, has to be a top priority for all the countries… especially this region and Southeast Asia,” he said.

Mr. Sharp said every dollar spent on preparedness and resilience could generate about $15 in broader economic returns, while investments in early-warning systems can significantly reduce both financial losses and loss of life.

Still, he said the Philippines is better prepared for El Niño than in the past, citing improvements in weather monitoring, forecasting and early-warning systems.

“The Philippines is… one of the first countries in the region to conceptualize and put into place these anticipatory initiatives,” he said.

He described the Philippines as a regional leader in some areas of climate data, forecasting and early warning, but said further investments are still needed.

ESCAP has also been working with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on drought preparedness.

Together with the ASEAN Secretariat, it developed the Ready for the Dry Years report, which examines the impact of prolonged droughts in Southeast Asia and measures that governments can take to build buffers against them.

World Bank Senior Nutrition Advisor Cecilia Santos-Acuin said the cost of poor nutrition goes beyond individual health, affecting productivity, human capital and the country’s long-term economic development.

“Malnutrition alone costs us about $8.5 billion, or 3% of our GDP per year,” Ms. Santos-Acuin said during the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines’ (ECCP) fifth annual Nutrition Forum on Wednesday.

Poor nutrition can affect an individual’s psychological and mental capacity, which in turn affects productivity and the ability to contribute to communities and the economy, she said.

The World Bank estimates that a package of nutrition interventions would cost about $20 per mother, infant and child. For the Philippines, the investment would amount to about $1.5 billion and could generate around $35 billion in economic benefits, Ms. Santos-Acuin said.

“It’s a very good return by any measure,” she said.

Department of Education (DepEd) Director IV Miguel Angelo Mantaring said the economic implications of malnutrition are also reflected in schools, where poor nutrition can affect attendance, participation and readiness to learn.

“You cannot teach around hunger,” Mr. Mantaring said.

He said children who come to school hungry, frequently ill or nutritionally compromised do not have the same opportunity to benefit from instruction and education reforms.

“Nutrition does not teach a child how to read. A teacher does that. The learning system does that, but nutrition can remove some of the physical barriers preventing the child from benefiting fully from what the teacher is doing,” Mr. Mantaring said.

DepEd is expanding its school-based feeding program to about 4.6 million learners in school year 2026–2027, including around 1.5 million kindergarten learners and 1.8 million Grade 1 learners who will receive daily feeding.

“We are progressively expanding universal feeding in the earliest grades. So starting this school year, this means approximately 1.5 million kindergarten learners and 1.8 million grade 1 learners are benefiting from daily feeding,” Mr. Mantaring said.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) OIC Director General Franklin Anthony M. Tabaquin said nutrition also requires regulations that protect consumers while ensuring access to safe and affordable products.

“Safety and affordability should not be treated as opposing goals,” Mr. Tabaquin said.

He called for science-based and risk-based regulation, saying requirements should be proportionate to actual risks and processes should be simplified where this can be done without compromising safety, quality or consumer protection.

“Better nutrition is too important and too complex to be the responsibility of one agency or one sector alone,” he said.

Ms. Santos-Acuin said the country also needs to address fragmentation in the delivery of nutrition interventions.

“Most of the time, the problem is not that we do not know what the interventions are or we do not have it in our programs. It’s because our delivery of the interventions is very fragmented,” she said.

The World Bank, together with the Philippine government, has been implementing a Philippine multisectoral nutrition project anchored on the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition.

The project combines national and local government interventions with early childhood development and water, sanitation and hygiene programs.

Participating communities recorded a 92% exclusive breastfeeding rate, compared with 60% in the National Nutrition Survey, while antenatal care reached 82%, Ms. Santos-Acuin said.

The project also recorded 23% minimum dietary adequacy, compared with a 14% national average at the time the data were collected.

Ms. Santos-Acuin said coordinated interventions can help shift communities from a cycle of poor nutrition toward better health, productivity and economic participation. — Kaizzer Angela Marie V. Manuba

The job fairs were held across 86 sites nationwide, where 1,352 employers offered 157,097 local and overseas vacancies, DOLE said.

A total of 28,795 jobseekers participated in the job fairs, which sought to bring employment opportunities and government services closer to communities.

DOLE Secretary Francis N. Tolentino said the initiative is aimed at making employment services more accessible and helping young Filipinos transition from school to work.

“They shouldn’t have to wait long to get your first real shot at work,” Mr. Tolentino said.

Among those hired were service crew, cashiers, production operators, massage therapists, security guards, office staff, baggers and sales executives.

The job fairs also provided employment opportunities to various groups, including 277 senior high school graduates, 39 beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, 34 members of indigenous communities, three displaced overseas Filipino workers, 11 TUPAD workers, 12 persons with disabilities and 28 senior citizens.

In Metro Manila, DOLE-NCR recorded 421 hires on the spot and 737 near-hires during Trabaho Agad job fairs held on September 12, 14 and 15 in selected areas across the capital region.

A total of 2,971 jobseekers registered at the regional venues, including high school students, fresh graduates and former overseas Filipino workers.

The job fairs were conducted as part of “Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat,” which seeks to bring government programs and services closer to communities.

Newly hired SM Hypermarket sales clerk Kerwin S. Liwanag, a fresh graduate, said the program provides jobseekers with opportunities to enter the workforce.

“Importante po yung ganitong programa dahil po marami pong mga tao na natutulungan, and nabibigyan po sila ng opportunity para magkaroon sila ng trabaho and para mas maging successful din sila sa susunod,” Mr. Liwanag said.

Beyond employment, 13,342 jobseekers also availed themselves of on-site services from the National Bureau of Investigation, Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance Corp. and Pag-IBIG Fund.
Palace Press Officer Claire A. Castro said the administration welcomed the more than 2,400 jobseekers who were hired immediately through the nationwide job fairs.

The job fairs, held in 86 locations, allowed 1,352 employers to offer more than 157,000 local and overseas employment opportunities, Ms. Castro said.

She added that the government services provided at the venues were part of efforts to make public services more accessible to Filipinos.

“Decent jobs and effective public service—that is what the President wants for every Filipino,” Ms. Castro said.

Mr. Tolentino said DOLE plans to continue bringing job fairs to more communities, emphasizing the need to provide Filipinos with access to stable employment opportunities. — Kaizzer Angela Marie V. Manuba

Tara sa Korea! will take place on October 3–4, 2026 (Saturday and Sunday), at the SM  Megamall Mega Fashion Hall. The two-day event will bring together practical travel  information, trusted travel partners, immersive Korean experiences, and other fun activities  to help Filipinos plan their next Korea adventure. 

It always starts with a simple thought: “Gusto kong pumunta sa Korea.” But between  dreaming about the trip and actually booking one are many questions about visas, finances,  flights, travel packages, and what to expect upon arrival. 

Tara sa Korea! Brings these essentials together in one experiential event- helping Filipinos  move from “Gusto kong pumunta sa Korea” to “Tara, Korea na!” while inspiring those who  have already visited to say: “Babalik ako ulit sa Korea!” The event aims to turn uncertainty  into confidence and help Filipinos say: “Ready na akong bumiyahe sa Korea!” 

Through three experience zones—PREPARE, DEPART, and ARRIVE—visitors can explore the  stages of planning a trip to Korea while gaining the information and inspiration they need  to make their travel plans a reality and make their journey more exciting. 

ZONE 1: PREPARE 

Start your Korea trip with confidence. 

The journey begins with preparation. Visitors can learn more about the requirements and  process involved in securing a Korean visa with the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC).  As the participating bank partner, BDO will help turn Korea travel plans into reality through  financial guidance, travel-related advice, exclusive discounts, cashback offers, and a Fly  Now, Pay Later facility with 0% installments for up to three months at participating travel  partners, making every Korea trip more affordable and convenient.

Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office 

19th Floor, Tower 1, High Street South Corporate Plaza, 9th Avenue corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 2637 Philippines Email. ktomanila@gmail.com Website. http://www.visitkorea.or.kr 

ZONE 2: DEPART 

Find the travel options that fit you. 

Once the essentials are covered, travelers can explore their options for getting to Korea.  Participating airlines and travel agencies are listed in the DEPART zone, where they  showcase travel products and packages, along with tips to help visitors plan a trip that fits  their budget, interests, and travel style. 

Whether traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with family, there is always another  destination to discover, another season to experience, another dish to savor, and another  story waiting to unfold in Korea. 

ZONE 3: ARRIVE 

Experience Korea before you even leave. 

The Korea experience does not have to begin at the airport. In the ARRIVE zone, visitors  can get a glimpse of what awaits them in Korea. Guests can savor Korean snacks at the K Food Truck, explore quality beauty products by Kolmar Healthcare Philippines, and  immerse themselves in Korean culture through traditional DIY craft activities presented by  the Korean Cultural Center, which they can take home as a keepsake. 

For those who have never been to Korea, these experiences offer a peek at what their first  trip could be. For those who have already visited, this can spark ideas for what to discover  next. 

The goal is simple: make that Korea trip happen. 

Adding a personal perspective to the travel experience, Tara sa Korea! will also feature  celebrity guests who will share their own Korea travel stories, memories, and  recommendations. 

On Day 1, actress Francine Diaz will take the stage for a special performance and share  her experiences in Korea, including memorable moments and insights from her recent 

Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office 

19th Floor, Tower 1, High Street South Corporate Plaza, 9th Avenue corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 2637 Philippines Email. ktomanila@gmail.com Website. http://www.visitkorea.or.kr 

project, Kumusta. Her stories will give visitors a glimpse into what makes traveling to Korea  more than just a destination; it becomes a collection of memories to bring home. 

On Day 2, Melai Cantiveros Francisco, the current Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family  Tourism in the Philippines, will share unforgettable experiences from her recent trips to  Korea, favorite family memories, and travel tips for Filipino travelers. Known for her warm,  relatable personality, Melai will share her perspective on discovering Korea, especially for  families and travelers looking to create meaningful experiences together. 

Your Korea journey starts here 

For those who have been saving Korea on their travel bucket list, Tara sa Korea! offers an  opportunity to move beyond simply dreaming about the trip, and to those who have  already been, it offers inspiration to go beyond the familiar and discover something new. 

All it takes to turn “Gusto kong pumunta sa Korea” into “Tara, Korea na!” is having the  right information, the right partners, and a little inspiration to get started. The event invites  Filipinos to take that step and start planning the Korea trip they have been waiting for or  revisit the country to discover more. TARA SA KOREA! 

XG has confirmed their new digital single “DEPENDS“, dropping on 6 November, their first new release since “THE CORE – 核“, the group’s debut full album that hit the Top 100 of the US Billboard 200 and No. 1 on Billboard JAPAN’s Hot Albums chart in January. The announcement lands just a day after XG’s first-ever appearance at Rock In Japan Festival 2026, a full-band performance in Chiba that electrified the crowd, and comes alongside something bigger: XGALX, the label and entertainment brand behind XG, has officially rebranded.

The new tagline says plainly what the blackout was building toward: “Genuine Art Lives. Lives Create Culture“.

XGALX describes the shift as a full reset, moving on from its previous philosophy and rebuilding around a structure centred on artists themselves, with the same key staff who built the label staying on for this next chapter. Every part of the operation, music, management, marketing, is now expanding with a more explicitly global focus.

“DEPENDS” itself picks up that same tension between certainty and doubt. The song follows someone moving forward without having every answer, refusing to force a clean yes or no onto feelings that are still unresolved: “I still don’t know myself” and “I’m still searching”. That uncertainty gets folded into the title itself – “It depends” – a phrase used to hold space for not knowing, rather than pretending to.

The single lands in the middle of a genuinely relentless year. XG became the first Japanese artist ever to perform at Capital’s Summertime Ball in London in June, followed by their first Fuji Rock Festival appearance in July, second-headliner billing at LA’s Head In The Clouds Festival in August, and now Rock In Japan in September. They’re also mid-way through their second world tour, “XG WORLD TOUR: THE CORE,” 35 shows across Asia, Europe, Australia and North America, closing out with a four-show finale across two nights each at Tokyo Dome and Kyocera Dome Osaka in February 2027.

Beyond music, each member has spent the year building serious fashion credentials: JURIA covered SPUR as part of the Dior family, COCONA appeared across ELLE JAPON, MiLK MAGAZINE Hong Kong and Harper’s Bazaar Japan as a GUCCI ambassador, JURIN covered SPUR and Numéro TOKYO, and CHISA landed her first-ever cover with Numéro TOKYO.

Music, live performance, fashion and culture have all become part of XG’s expanding world. Now, with “DEPENDS” and a newly reimagined XGALX behind them, the group enters its next chapter without pretending to have all the answers.

Sometimes, the answer is simply: it depends.

About XG

XG (Xtraordinary Genes) is a seven-member artist group consisting of JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA.

Unbound by innate attributes or predefined frameworks, XG unleashes the power and creativity that lie within each individual’s core. By continuously creating new culture without being constrained by convention, XG seeks to empower people across the world from all walks of life.

XG debuted in March 2022 with their 1st single “Tippy Toes.” They achieved numerous global accomplishments, including becoming the first Japanese artist to rank number one on the US Billboard chart “Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter” and gracing the cover of US “Billboard” magazine. Their 2nd mini-album “AWE,” released in November 2024, made its first appearance on the US Billboard album chart “Billboard 200.” From 2024, they held their first world tour, “XG 1st WORLD TOUR ‘The first HOWL’,” with 47 performances in 35 cities worldwide, attracting approximately 400,000 people. At the tour final performance held at Tokyo Dome on May 14, 2025, they captivated an audience of approximately 50,000. In April 2025, they were the only Japanese artists to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, one of America’s largest music festivals, headlining the Sahara Stage and receiving high praise from numerous domestic and international media outlets. On January 23, 2026, they released their 1st full album, “THE CORE – 核,” which became their first entry into the Top 100 of the US Billboard album chart, “Billboard 200.” From February of the same year, they began their 2nd World Tour, “XG WORLD TOUR: THE CORE.” On June 6, 2026, they became the first Japanese artists to perform at Capital’s Summertime Ball 2026, one of the UK’s largest music festivals, and became the first Japanese artist group to perform at Wembley Stadium.

The actor takes center stage in “Wantawsan,” one of seven full-length films competing at this year’s Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, with a role that gives audiences a chance to appreciate his prodigious acting talent. 

In the film, Joross plays Chito, a struggling father who receives cash from the newly elected mayor he supported during the elections. He plans to use the money for his son’s birthday celebration, but things quickly unravel when most of it is taken away, leaving him with just ₱1,000.

What ensues is a story that turns the issue of everyday challenges into something funny, absurd and painfully familiar.

JOROSS GETS TO SHOW HIS RANGE

Comedy has always been one of Joross’ strongest suits, and “Wantawsan” takes full advantage of it. But behind the laughter is his character Chito’s desperate need to provide for his family, forcing him to traverse both humor and drama as he confronts increasingly difficult choices.

The result is an individual that audiences can laugh with one moment and feel for the next. 

The role also puts Joross alongside Rita Daniela and young actor Zion Cruz, who plays Chito’s son. Their family dynamic gives the film much of its emotional weight, grounding its zany situations in a relationship that is recognizably Filipino.

Joross, in fact, discloses that he grew increasingly attached to his character Chito while making the movie.“Yong nabasa ko yung script talagang nagustuhan ko. Pero yong shinoot namin, mas nag-grow pa siya sa akin,” he said.

“Hindi ako magsisisi sa pag-yes ko rito.”

FROM SCENE-STEALER TO LEADING MAN

Joross has spent much of his career proving that a supporting actor can sometimes be the person audiences remember most.

“Wantawsan” flips that equation.

This time, the jokes, the heartbreak, and the moral dilemmas land squarely on his shoulders—and he finally gets the space to carry an entire film.

“Wantawsan” premieres at the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, running September 23 to October 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay and Market! Market!

Tickets are ₱250 regular and ₱200 discounted. A ₱2,000 festival pass covers the festival lineup, while discounted tickets are available to PWDs, senior citizens, students, national athletes, and Aling Puring and Perks cardholders.

Festival passes will be available starting September 22 at Gateway Cineplex 18, and from September 23 onwards at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma.

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 is sponsored by Alaska, Angel, Argentina, Ariel, Bingo, Birch Tree Fortified, Bear Brand, C2, Century Tuna, Champion, Chuckie, Coca-Cola, Colgate, Cream Silk, Datu Puti, Downy, GoodNom Fresh, Great Taste, Del Monte, Jack ‘N Jill, Knorr, Lucky Me!, Maggi, Magnolia Real Mayonnaise, Milo, Monde, MY San, Nestea, Nissin, Nivea, Palmolive Naturals, Pantene, Purefoods, Rebisco, Royal, Safeguard, Sprite, Surf, Wilkins, and Zonrox. 

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CUSTOMERS of Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and Manila Water Co., Inc. will pay slightly higher water bills starting Oct. 1 after the regulator approved quarterly adjustments reflecting foreign exchange movements.

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) approved an increase of P0.08 per cubic meter (cu.m.) for Manila Water and P0.24 per cu.m. for Maynilad, the agency said in a statement on Friday.

Manila Water customers in the east zone who consume 10 cu.m. or less will see their monthly bills increase by P0.34. Those consuming up to 20 cu.m. and 30 cu.m. will pay an additional P0.75 and P1.53, respectively.

Maynilad customers in the west zone who consume 10 cu.m. or less will see their bills increase by P0.67. Those consuming up to 20 cu.m. and 30 cu.m. will pay an additional P2.54 and P5.19, respectively.

The tariff increases will have a smaller impact on low-income households covered by the enhanced lifeline programs of Manila Water and Maynilad.

The adjustments were approved under the foreign currency differential adjustment (FCDA), a tariff mechanism that allows water concessionaires to recover losses or return gains arising from movements of the peso against foreign currencies.

Manila Water serves the east zone of Metro Manila, covering parts of Marikina, Pasig, Makati, Taguig, Pateros, Mandaluyong, San Juan, portions of Quezon City and Manila, and several towns in Rizal province.

Maynilad serves parts of Manila, Quezon City, and Makati, as well as Caloocan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Valenzuela, Navotas, and Malabon. It also supplies water to Cavite City, Bacoor, and Imus, as well as the towns of Kawit, Noveleta, and Rosario in Cavite province.

Metro Pacific Investments Corp., the majority owner of Maynilad, is one of three Philippine units of Hong Kong-based First Pacific Co. Ltd., alongside Philex Mining Corp. and 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.

In a statement on Friday, Meralco said its overall rate declined by P0.0409 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to P14.7424 in September from P14.7833 per kWh in August.

The adjustment translates to a P8 reduction in the monthly bill of a household consuming 200 kWh. Customers consuming 300 kWh, 400 kWh, and 500 kWh will see their bills fall by P12, P16, and P20, respectively.

“This follows a rate decrease Meralco implemented last month, and we hope that this will somehow provide relief to our customers,” Meralco Vice-President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.

Meralco attributed the decline mainly to lower ancillary service charges collected by the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) and lower taxes.

Ancillary service charges, or the cost of procuring power reserves to maintain balance in the power grid, fell by P0.3344 per kWh due to lower charges from the reserve market.

Taxes and other charges posted a net decrease of P0.1657 per kWh.

The lower overall rate came despite a P0.4232-per-kWh increase in the generation charge, which Meralco attributed mainly to the weaker peso and higher fuel costs following the recent escalation of the conflict in the Middle East.

On Aug. 28, the peso weakened by P1.025 to close at P62.265 against the dollar from P61.24 on July 31, according to data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines.

The increase in the generation charge was partly offset by lower charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), which Meralco attributed to weaker demand in the Luzon grid.

Two refunds being implemented by Meralco totaled P1.0139 per kWh.

Meralco’s distribution charge, meanwhile, has remained unchanged since a P0.0360-per-kWh reduction for a typical residential customer took effect in August 2022.

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.

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

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) PISA 2025 study showed that socio-economically advantaged students, representing the top 25%, outperformed those in the bottom 25% by 76 score points in science.

“Between 2018 and 2025, the gap in science performance between the top and the bottom 25% of students in terms of socio-economic status remains stable in the Philippines, as well as across OECD countries on average,” the report said.

The 76-point gap is similar to the OECD average of 85 score points.

It also noted that during the period, performance improved to a similar extent among both advantaged and disadvantaged students.

To determine the socio-economic status of test-takers, the OECD computes an index of economic, social and cultural status that allows students from all participating countries to be placed on a single common scale.

This index is derived from parameters such as parental education, parental occupational status, and home possessions, allowing researchers to categorize students into distinct brackets, such as the top 25% most advantaged students and the bottom 25% most disadvantaged students.

In the latest PISA, the largest share of Filipino students, at 51%, belonged to the bottom international quartile of the socio-economic scale, meaning they were among the most disadvantaged test-takers in 2025.

Their average score in science was 354 points. Students from similar socio-economic backgrounds in global standouts such as B-S-J-Z (Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang) in China and Türkiye scored significantly higher, the report said.

This was lower than the Philippines’ overall average of 373 points in science, which saw an improvement of 17 points from the 2022 study.

However, the score remained below the OECD average of 482 in science and ranked last among eight Southeast Asian peers, with Singapore scoring the highest at 560 points.

The report said that socio-economic status accounted for 13% of the variation in science performance among Filipino students in PISA 2025, slightly higher than the 12% OECD average.

Also, 11% of disadvantaged students in the Philippines scored in the country’s top quarter of science performers, qualifying them as academically resilient.

PISA is an OECD-led international assessment that seeks to measure the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of 15-year-old students. It also measures how they can solve complex problems, think critically, and communicate effectively.

More than 760,000 students from 91 countries and economies participated in PISA 2025, of which 8,072 students from 208 schools in the Philippines completed the assessment. This represents about 1.75 million 15-year-olds, or an estimated 82% of the country’s 15-year-old population. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

The trough, or extension, of the LPA may cause thunderstorms over the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, and Cagayan Valley, PAGASA said in its 4:00 p.m. weather forecast.

PAGASA warned of possible flooding and landslides due to moderate to occasionally heavy rains.

The LPA affecting these areas was last located 1,005 kilometers (km) west of Southwestern Luzon as of 2:00 p.m. and still has a medium chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.

Another LPA is also being monitored outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility and is located 3,035 km east of Eastern Visayas.

PAGASA earlier said that the LPA has a chance of entering PAR over the weekend and is also not ruling out the possibility that it may move near Luzon.

Meanwhile, the prevailing southwest monsoon is also expected to bring thunderstorms over Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, Western Visayas, and Northern Samar in the next 24 hours.

PAGASA also warned of flooding and landslides over these areas.

The rest of the country may also be affected by localized thunderstorms, despite the effects of the southwest monsoon being expected to weaken.— Edg Adrian A. Eva

Philippine cuisine is more than a collection of dishes. It is a reflection of the country’s diverse regions, traditions, communities, and stories. Building on its commitment to champion Philippine culinary heritage, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) advances its “Gateway to Gastronomy” campaign through Conrad Manila’s Filipinas, a culinary experience that brings the flavors and stories of the archipelago to the table through the artistry of seven Filipina chefs.

Launched by SMHCC, “Gateway to Gastronomy” is a group-wide campaign that positions its hotels as immersive destinations where guests can discover the culture, history, and communities behind Filipino food. The campaign supports the Department of Tourism’s Food and Gastronomy Tourism Roadmap 2024–2029, which seeks to position the Philippines as a leading gastronomic destination in Southeast Asia by promoting regional cuisines, strengthening hospitality partnerships, championing local ingredients, and creating meaningful culinary experiences for travelers.

“Filipinas demonstrates how Gateway to Gastronomy can translate our country’s rich culinary heritage into an experience that is both deeply rooted in tradition and relevant to today’s diners,” said Leah Magallanes, SMHCC Vice President for Food & Beverage, Quality, and Sustainability. “By bringing together regional ingredients, Filipino culinary stories, and the creativity of our chefs, we are not only showcasing what makes our cuisine distinct. We are creating opportunities for guests to understand the people, places, and traditions behind every flavor. This is how we see our hotels contributing to the continued appreciation and promotion of Philippine gastronomy.”

At the heart of Filipinas is a seven-course chef’s table experience at Brasserie on 3, available exclusively on September 12, 2026. Created by seven female chefs from Conrad Manila’s culinary team, the menu takes guests on a gastronomic journey through the Philippines, with each course representing a different chapter in the story of Filipino food.

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“With Filipinas, we wanted to give our guests a deeper appreciation of Filipino cuisine by presenting familiar ingredients and traditions through a fresh and contemporary lens,” said Rupert Hallam, General Manager of Conrad Manila. “What makes this experience particularly special is the creative voice of our seven Filipina chefs, whose interpretations bring together the diverse flavors of the archipelago while honoring the stories and heritage behind them. It is our way of inviting guests to experience the Philippines through a dining experience that is distinctly Filipino, thoughtfully crafted, and deeply personal.”

The experience opens with simula (beginning), a contemporary interpretation of tokwa’t baboy featuring tofu skin, etag from the Cordilleras, coconut vinegar, and soy gel. Pagbukas (opening) follows with tuna kinilaw, incorporating batwan from Western Visayas, while paglago (growth) presents kabute at keso ravioli with local kesong puti, mushroom duxelles, salted egg crème, smoked corn, and tarragon foam.

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A refreshing calamansi sorbet marks sandali (pause), before the menu moves into its main courses. Direksyon (direction) interprets flavors associated with Central Luzon through maya and alugbati, black heirloom rice from Negros Island, and chicken tinapa, while lakas (strength) draws from the culinary traditions of Bicol through beef tenderloin, burnt coconut, labuyo pearls, and creamed taro leaves. The journey concludes with pamana (legacy), a dessert inspired by Davao’s identity as the Cacao Capital of the Philippines, bringing together guyabano, cacao, pili, and San Nicolas cookie.

Beyond the one-day chef’s table, Filipinas will also be available at Brasserie on 3 beginning Sept. 12, through a four-course set menu, allowing more guests to experience its interpretation of Filipino cuisine. Guests may choose from a selection of appetizers and main courses, including tokwa’t baboy, tuna kinilaw, maya maya at alugbati, baka at laing, and kordero at piyanggang, alongside vegan selections. The meal concludes with halo-halo, reimagined through elements such as ube, leche flan, macapuno, langka, buko-pandan, and pinipig.

Through Filipinas, Conrad Manila expands the reach of Gateway to Gastronomy by bringing together culinary traditions from across the archipelago within a single dining experience. Its menu highlights how Filipino cuisine can be elevated through contemporary culinary techniques without losing its connection to the ingredients, flavors, and cultural influences that define each region.

This approach reinforces SMHCC’s broader role in advancing gastronomy tourism: using its properties as gateways to the destinations they represent, while creating opportunities to preserve culinary traditions, celebrate local producers and communities, and introduce Filipino flavors to both local and international guests. Across the SMHCC portfolio, this approach is reflected in destination-led culinary initiatives that range from Taal Vista Hotel’s heritage journey inspired by Filipino heroes to Pico Sands Hotel’s focus on local ingredients and fishing communities, as well as regional culinary experiences across Central Luzon, Western Visayas, Negros Occidental, and Mindanao.

As SMHCC continues to advance Gateway to Gastronomy, each property becomes more than a place to stay. It becomes a place where guests can experience the Philippines through its food, meet the stories behind its flavors, and gain a deeper appreciation of the heritage that continues to shape Filipino cuisine.

For more information on Filipinas at Conrad Manila, guests may call +632 8833 9999 or email ConradManila@ConradHotels.com.

Spotlight is  BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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Beyond her signature sound, audiences can expect Angela to showcase a fresh and different side of her artistry in the concert.“I am bringing the element of exploration,” she teased. “Discovering ‘Panahon’ EP, to be very honest. Doon ako bumalik. ‘Di ko naman masabi na I was lost, but maybe because I explored a lot of stuff. Because of that, ang dami ko pang gusto from my music na hindi pa nailabas from ‘Ako Naman Muna’ since it’s been six years naman na rin.”

The concert, to be directed by John Prats, will be a different kind of intimate and personal, dedicated to Angela’s followers, whom she fondly calls Angels. “It’s a different kind of personal; it’s a different kind of intimate. I want them to feel na nagkakaabutan lang tayong lahat,” she said. “Yung difference nito is yung lalim na gusto naming mensahe sa bawat set, sa bawat performance, sa bawat guest.”

Fans can also look forward to Angela’s live performance of the tracks from her “Panahon” EP, released under Tarsier Records, which she described as showing the timelines of one’s life.

“Those six songs, it will show you the other side of your life. Like example, si ‘simula ngayon,’ it talks about kung ano ka na ngayon, yung parang pinagtibay ka na ng panahon. ‘kahapon’ talks about the reality na minsan talaga wala kang magagawa pag gusto mo ang isang tao. ‘Pwede Bang Mamaya?’ talks about how we can prolong something with this person, with this person kasi sobrang saya. ‘baka bukas’ is a song full of hope na lahat tayo meron at meron na baka bukas sa buhay.” explained the ABS-CBN Music artist.

Angela is likewise set to perform her upcoming single, “tayo lang,” at the concert. The first song she ever wrote back in 2018 is finally dropping on music streaming platforms on September 25 (Friday).

“Ngayon ko pa lang siya ilalabas nang kumpleto. There are changes sa lyrics niya, there are tweaks. Pinagtibay rin siya ng panahon,” she said.

Tickets to “Angela Ken: Panahon na Natin” are still available on Ticketnet outlets and via ticketnet.com.ph.

Cebu, Philippines — The Province of Cebu is advancing its digital transformation efforts through its partnership with PLDT Enterprise, adopting solutions designed to strengthen connectivity, improve workforce collaboration, and support more efficient and responsive public service delivery.

The recently formalized partnership highlights how digital infrastructure can help local governments modernize operations and better serve their constituents. As one of the country’s oldest provinces and a first-class province in Central Visayas, Cebu continues to 

pursue initiatives that strengthen governance and public service delivery, with PLDT Enterprise supporting this direction through reliable and scalable digital solutions.

Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro emphasized the importance of boosting digital capabilities. “This collaboration underscores Cebu’s continued effort to modernize government systems and adopt digital tools that support better service delivery across the province. As the Province of Cebu continues its digital transformation journey, the partnership with PLDT Enterprise reflects a shared vision of using technology to improve how government works—making public services more connected, productive, and responsive to the needs of the people.”

A Government & Private Sector Push for Collaboration, Innovation, and Technology

A major step in this direction was the enactment of the Cebu Province Digital Services Act of 2025, which established a province-wide digital services framework aimed at streamlining government transactions, strengthening data protection, and improving the quality and accessibility of public services. 

Complementing this initiative is the creation of the Provincial Information and Communications Technology Council (PICTC), the province’s policy-making and coordinating body for ICT development.

In support of these digitalization efforts, the Province of Cebu has adopted several PLDT Enterprise solutions, including iGate connectivity, Smart Corporate Lines, and Microsoft 365 which was deployed and enabled by PLDT Group’s ICT subsidiary, ePLDT. Together, these services provide the province with reliable, secure, and collaborative digital infrastructure that supports modern government operations, enhances workforce productivity, and enables more effective delivery of public services across Cebu.

“For a province as dynamic as Cebu, reliable digital infrastructure is essential to keeping public service moving,” said Javier Lagdameo, PLDT Vice President & Head, Domestic Enterprise Business, Regional & Commercial. “Through this partnership, we are helping provide the connectivity and collaboration tools that allow government teams to work more seamlessly, serve constituents more efficiently, and build a stronger foundation for Cebu’s continued growth.”

Reliable high-speed connectivity through iGate supports continuity and stable access to digital services, while Microsoft 365 provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance collaboration, streamline workflows, and boost productivity across teams. 

“PLDT Enterprise remains strongly committed to supporting local governments as they build stronger digital foundations for governance and public service,” said Ma. Hazel Amoyan, CRM Head, PLDT Enterprise. “Through reliable connectivity, collaboration tools, and mobility solutions, we aim to help enable more efficient operations and more responsive service delivery for the Province of Cebu. Moving forward, we will continue to deliver and provide these kinds of innovative solutions and products to each and every province across the country.”

A commitment to empowering Cebu with secure, reliable, and future-ready digital infrastructure

The partnership reflects PLDT Enterprise’s continuing commitment to helping local governments build the digital capabilities needed for modern governance. In Cebu’s case, the focus is on providing secure, reliable, and future-ready digital infrastructure that can support both internal efficiency and citizen-facing services.

By strengthening connectivity and equipping teams with collaborative digital tools, the partnership is expected to contribute to faster coordination, more efficient government processes, and improved service responsiveness. The broader significance lies in how these technologies can help the Province of Cebu sustain its smart governance ambitions while supporting transparency, accessibility, and public trust in digital government services.

To learn more about how PLDT Enterprise supports digital transformation in the public sector, visit https://pldtenterprise.com/about-us.

About PLDT Enterprise

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

The unfiltered version provides viewers a longer “GGV” experience, as compared to its free TV airing, streaming over an hour’s worth of added uncut comedic moments in each episode as seen by the live studio audience.

The country’s Phenomenal Unkabogable Superstar, Vice Ganda, openly welcomed the fresh format of the new season of “GGV,” sharing that viewers can fully watch all raw moments that are not seen on its free TV airing. 

“Siyempre, hindi lahat pwede namin ipakita sa free TV. ‘Yung mga hindi namin pwede ipakita sa free TV, mapapanood nila sa iWant dahil iyon talaga ang unfiltered at uncut version. Kung ano ang tinape namin at mga pinag-usapan, lahat nasa iWant kaya super exciting,” Vice said in a previous interview.

In its first episode, viewers can watch all the unfiltered moments with Kapuso actor and Asia’s Multimedia Star Alden Richards as he tags along with the hilarious antics of Vice and the Geng Gang of Vince Maristela, Divine Tetay, and Verna.Watch the full, raw moments of each episode in “Gandang Gabi Vice: Unfiltered” every Sunday starting September 13 after its TV broadcast exclusively on iWant. Stream the unfiltered episodes through iWant’s subscription plans starting at PHP 35 per month in the Philippines, USD 12.99 per month in the United States, and USD 4.99 per month for the rest of the world.

Enjoy all the feels you want on iWant, the Home of Filipino Feels. Download the app now on Google Play Store and Apple App Store or visit iwant.ph to begin subscription.

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A JKA karate black belt, Shey Mael has been introduced as a Signature Model for Associated News. He is also being developed as a model of JKA Philippines, positioning him among the emerging Filipino personalities who unite athletic discipline, personal style and inspiring character.

Shey was discovered during the 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku and Karate-Do Championship in Davao City, where his quiet confidence, commanding presence, and dedication to karate set him apart from the crowd.

“Shey possesses something that cannot easily be manufactured—an authentic presence,” Noubikko said. “He does not need to demand attention. His discipline, humility, and natural appeal allow people to notice him.”

A Black Belt Beyond the Uniform

For Shey Mael, wearing a black belt represents far more than physical ability. It reflects patience, sacrifice, self-control and the determination to continue improving even when no audience is watching.

These values will define his work as a Philippines Brand Ambassador. In his new role, Shey is expected to help introduce traditional karate to a broader generation while representing the organization’s principles of respect, discipline and excellence.

His journey also carries a message for young Filipinos: true confidence does not begin with popularity. It is built slowly through preparation, humility and perseverance.

A New Face for the Media

As a Noubikko signature model, Shey is expected to appear in future promotional campaigns distributed through publications belonging to the Associated News Agency Network.

His development will form part of a year-long image-building and promotional program designed to transform natural potential into a recognizable professional identity. The program may include modeling preparation, media appearances, personal branding, communication development and acting workshops.

The goal is not simply to introduce another handsome face. It is to develop a personality whose public image is supported by discipline, credibility and a meaningful personal story.

Preparing for the Screen

Shey Mael is also expected to undergo acting training as part of plans to bring selected stories about JKA heroes, competitors and respected karate masters to the screen.

His authentic martial-arts background gives him an important advantage. Unlike performers who must learn karate only for a role, Shey already understands its movements, traditions and philosophy.

This combination of genuine karate experience and future dramatic training could prepare him for action-oriented roles grounded in realism rather than spectacle alone.

Noubikko and its media partners will also explore sponsorship opportunities to support Shey’s professional development, promotional appearances and possible participation in future film and advertising projects.

Eyes on Japan

The opportunity represents another important chapter in his journey—from being discovered at a major tournament in Davao to potentially representing Filipino discipline and determination before an international audience.

His story is only beginning, but its direction is already clear. Shey Mael is not leaving karate behind as he enters modeling and entertainment—he is bringing its discipline with him.

And that may prove to be his greatest strength.

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Homemade Sardines in Tomato Sauce are easy to make and cook perfectly in the pressure cooker! Skip the store-bought tins and experience the tender fish and rich, savory flavors of this classic pantry staple made entirely from scratch. Canned sardines in tomato sauce are a staple in almost every Filipino pantry. They're relatively cheap and…

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Craving the ultimate comfort food? You can't go wrong with a classic Sinigang na Baboy featuring tender, slow-cooked pork ribs and fresh vegetables in a perfectly sour, tamarind-flavored broth. It’s hearty, incredibly flavorful, and perfect with steamed rice! Today has been a cold and wet day, with rain intermittent throughout. It was the kind of…

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Satisfy your sweet tooth with Inday-Inday! This classic Ilonggo kakanin features soft,  chewy glutinous rice patties topped with a rich, caramelized bukayo. It’s a simple, comforting Filipino dessert made with pantry staples and sure to be a crowd favorite. If you love palitaw but are craving something a little more decadent than the usual coating…

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Dinakdakan is a classic Ilocano dish featuring smoky grilled pork tossed in a rich, creamy dressing. Savory, tangy, and packed with a spicy kick, it delivers an irresistible medley of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds! I am the first to admit the combination of pork snout, pork ears, and pig brain…

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Skip the takeout and make this Cashew Chicken stir-fry right at home. With tender meat, crisp veggies, and crunchy roasted cashews coated in rich, savory-sweet brown sauce, it's a mouthwatering meal the whole family will love. We love cooking, but with this and that going on some days, putting dinner together can feel overwhelming. Thank…

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“Upon entry into the office, the first mandate that I had carried out was to change the tone of voice of the Department of Tourism with regard to how it communicates to the public,” DoT Assistant Secretary for Branding and Marketing Communications Armand Lorenze “Ren” Sapitan told lawmakers in a House Committee on Appropriations budget hearing.

“We didn’t have to change the members of branding and the marketing team,” he added. “The only thing that we adopted was a change in direction.”

Mr. Sapitan noted that the agency will shift how it approaches the Love the Philippines campaign instead of replacing it through its Discover More to Love program.

“We would not change this campaign because we recognize that the administration only has two years left,” he said. “What we are changing is how we approach the campaign.”

“The way we relate to the people, the way we promote, the way we market our tourism destinations,” he added.

The Discover More to Love program aims to highlight local destinations by partnering with companies, offering travel bundles and discounted offers.

“The Sun Group actually not only invests in marketing, but they also invest in the entire ecosystem,” Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay explained, citing the agency’s relationship with the private sector.

“The tourist attractions, from hotels, the accommodation, the entire village – that’s the kind of investment that is complete; it’s almost like a subsidy,” she added.

Filipino talents BINI and SB19 were also named as the country’s tourism ambassadors who will support the push for domestic travel.

The DoT earmarked a P4.03 billion budget under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP), down 4.6% or P196 million from the approved P4.23 billion budget for 2026.

Of the proposed budget, P1 billion will fund branding campaigns, mostly for overseas marketing (60%) and domestic efforts (40%).

“You could see that the aesthetic that we are showing in our social platforms has improved drastically,” said Mr. Sapitan. “We’re not showing our faces anymore; we are showing the beautiful places across the Philippines.”

Former Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina G. Frasco previously faced criticism during her tenure over alleged overexposure in the agency’s promotional materials. — Almira Louise S. Martinez

Banks’ gross NPL ratio rose to 3.35% in July from 3.29% a month earlier, but eased from 3.4% in the same month last year.

This was the highest bad loan ratio in two months or since 3.44% in May.

Banks saw P585.081 billion in nonperforming loans at end-July, 9.27% higher than the P535.448 billion recorded a year ago. Month on month, soured loans inched up by 0.02% from P584.971 billion as of June.

Loans are considered nonperforming once they are unpaid for at least 90 days after the due date. These are deemed as risk assets since borrowers are unlikely to pay.

The total loan book of Philippine banks stood at P17.448 trillion as of July, down by 1.88% from P17.781 trillion in the previous month. However, it went up by 10.63% from the P15.771-trillion portfolio it had in July 2025.

BSP data also showed banks’ loan loss reserves edged down by 0.06% to P540.895 billion from P541.238 billion in June but grew by 5.63% from P512.061 billion a year earlier.

Loan loss reserves accounted for 3.1% of the system’s total loan portfolio as of end-July, higher than the 3.04% in June but lower than 3.25% the prior year.

Banks’ NPL coverage ratio, which gauges the allowance for potential losses due to bad loans, slipped to 92.45% in July from 92.52% the previous month. This was also down from 95.63% a year ago. — Katherine K. Chan

“We still forecast drought conditions in Camarines Sur, while dry conditions and dry spells will spread across 61 provinces in the country by November and will persist in parts of Visayas and Mindanao by December,” Joey H. Figuracion, PAGASA weather specialist, said in a climate outlook release in mixed English and Filipino.

“Similar conditions are expected in Visayas and Mindanao by January and will even spread in larger parts of Visayas, Mindanao, as well as in Luzon by February,” he added.

Of the 61 affected provinces, 44 are expected to be hit by dry conditions, and 17 areas will experience dry spells by November.

In December, the number of areas experiencing dry conditions will drop to 16, but dry spells may be experienced in more areas, at 22.

Meanwhile, below-normal rainfall conditions are expected in large portion of Northern Luzon and some parts of Southern Luzon and Southern Mindanao by September.

“This scenario is expected to affect more areas in the country by October and November,” Mr. Figuracion said.

He added that by December, more rainfall is expected in large parts of Luzon, but below-normal rainfall is still expected in Visayas and Mindanao until February.

Large parts of the country are likely to experience warmer-than-usual temperatures in the next six months.

During the same period, PAGASA is also expecting between five and eight tropical cyclones that will enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

The high-level forum, held at the PHINMA Plaza Roofdeck in Rockwell Center, focused on how local governments, schools, communities and the private sector could play a larger role in education decisions while the national government retains responsibility for setting standards, ensuring equity and overseeing national priorities.

PBEd President Chito B. Salazar said the country’s highly centralized education system has struggled to respond to the varied needs of schools and communities across the country.

“We generally follow a one-size-fits-all policy or program,” Mr. Salazar said in his opening remarks.

“The challenges of a school in Metro Manila are not necessarily the challenges of a school in an island municipality, an agricultural community, or a geographically isolated area,” he added.

Mr. Salazar said decentralization should go beyond simply transferring responsibilities from the national government to local governments.

“It is about determining how many layers should stand between a school and the decisions that affect its learners, who [are] accountable, how decisions are made, and for whom those decisions are made,” he said.

Under the approach proposed by PBEd, the national government would continue to set standards, protect equity, support weaker schools, finance national priorities and hold schools and local officials accountable.

At the same time, greater authority would be given to local leaders, school divisions, school boards, communities and parents to respond to local education needs.

The Asia Foundation education governance adviser on decentralization Reynaldo Antonio Laguda said the current system leaves some 48,000 public schools and around 12,000 private schools dependent on an “overstretched pipeline running through the center.”

“When everything flows through the center, schools wait, funds arrive late, decisions are slow, and very little or no room for local innovation,” Mr. Laguda said.

He said decentralization should involve three channels: deconcentration of authority within the Department of Education (DepEd), devolution of authority or functions to local government units (LGUs), and stronger public-private partnerships.

Mr. Laguda proposed a framework built around five elements: capacity, authority, resources, accountability and transparency.

“The first three, CAR, enable action, while the latter two safeguard those three,” he said.

He warned that transferring authority without the capacity or resources to exercise it could undermine reform efforts.

“Authority without capacity causes paralysis,” Mr. Laguda said. “Decentralization gets blamed for what was really an implementation gap.”

He said resources should move alongside authority, noting that giving schools or local governments decision-making power without providing the funding to act on those decisions would leave decentralization ineffective.

DECENTRALIZATION ROAD MAP
Mr. Laguda outlined a three-phase decentralization roadmap aligned with the government’s Basic Education Development Plan 2035.

The first phase, covering 2026 to 2028, would focus on creating an enabling environment, strengthening governance and launching pilot “sandboxes” where greater local government participation can be tested.

The second phase, from 2029 to 2031, would focus on scaling validated models and expanding school-level autonomy.

By 2035, the goal would be for the central office to focus more on national policy and standards, while decisions are made closer to schools and communities.

Ms. Guevarra cited experiences in local governments as evidence that greater autonomy can improve education outcomes.

She recounted visiting a school in a poor municipality where all children had received zero in a reading test. The children faced a two- to three-hour journey home along a rugged road, making it difficult for national-level interventions to address their circumstances.

After the community and mayor developed a local response, the school’s average reading score rose to 85%, she said.

Ms. Guevarra also cited an experiment involving 12 municipalities in Iloilo, where greater local autonomy was tested against a control group. The experimental local governments posted a median reading score of 90%, she said.

LOCAL EDUCATION AGENDA
For decentralization to work, however, she said local leaders need to become more involved in education and use data to guide decisions.

An “education mayor,” she said, owns the local education agenda, uses data instead of anecdotes, listens to communities and translates plans into programs.

Ms. Guevarra also called for the reinvention of local school boards, saying these bodies often focus on budgets, sports and infrastructure rather than learning outcomes.

She proposed broadening their membership to include businesses, private schools, farmers, fishermen, drivers, nongovernment organizations and other community stakeholders.

Local school boards should also be able to use data, plan programs around learning outcomes and monitor whether interventions improve student performance, she said.

Both speakers emphasized that decentralization does not mean abandoning national standards.

Ms. Guevarra said the national government should continue to set standards, curriculum and competencies, as well as conduct national assessments.

Local governments and schools, meanwhile, should have greater flexibility to localize programs, adjust strategies and conduct formative assessments based on their learners’ needs.

Mr. Salazar said the private sector would also have to take responsibility for supporting the reform.

“Business cannot simply tell the government what it should do,” he said. “We must also participate through local partnerships, resource support, workforce information, support for schools and communities, and a willingness to stay engaged long enough for reforms to work.”

For Mr. Salazar, the ultimate objective is not administrative restructuring but better outcomes for learners.

“The purpose of decentralization, ultimately, is not to move boxes around an organizational chart. It is to make the system more responsive, more accountable, and more capable of delivering for the learner,” he said.

“We must try something new, and decentralize,” he added. — Kaizzer Angela Marie V. Manuba

These are the qualities bringing Paulyn Lobaton, professionally known as Ms Pauline, growing recognition as a sought-after Filipino broadcast journalist and news presenter.

With her confident delivery, thoughtful interviewing style, and natural ability to make guests feel comfortable, Ms Pauline is steadily distinguishing herself as a media personality capable of presenting more than headlines. She brings context, compassion, and real-life understanding to every conversation.

Behind her poised presence before the camera is a remarkable career built across some of the country’s most competitive and demanding industries. She has worked in pharmaceuticals, financial services, sales and marketing, construction materials, general trade, shipping logistics, and corporate management.

This unusual background gives her something that cannot be learned from a script alone: an intimate understanding of how businesses operate, how leaders make difficult decisions, and how ordinary Filipinos work tirelessly to build better lives for their families.

A News Presenter With Real-World Experience

Before entering the expanding world of broadcast journalism and news presentation, Ms Pauline spent years in boardrooms, business meetings, warehouses, ports, and client negotiations.

She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Puerto Real Marketing Incorporated, where she provides strategic direction in business development, sales, financial projections, investment planning, contract preparation, and key-account management.

She is also President of Infineight Trading Corporation, applying her extensive knowledge of cement trading, land and sea distribution, port operations, cargo handling, logistics, warehousing, and manpower deployment.

Her responsibilities have required her to work closely with customers, corporate decision-makers, shipping personnel, port operators, and regulatory authorities. These experiences developed the composure, discipline, and presence she now carries into every interview.

When Ms Pauline discusses business, she understands the figures behind the story. When she interviews a leader, she recognizes the weight of responsibility. When she speaks with workers and ordinary Filipinos, she understands the sacrifices often hidden behind professional titles.

She does not simply read the news. She understands the world behind it.

A Career Defined by Results

Ms Pauline has repeatedly demonstrated her ability to enter challenging industries and produce measurable results.

As Operations Manager of JFR Enterprises, she helped overhaul the company’s cement distribution model, contributing to growth of more than 50 percent. She led sales negotiations, strengthened key accounts, conducted product and salesmanship training, and managed complex ship and cargo operations.

Earlier in her career, she served as a financial executive with AXA Philippines through its banking partnership. In that role, she evaluated clients’ protection and investment requirements, recommended financial solutions, conducted business presentations, and consistently delivered sales targets.

Her work as a medical representative for Natrapharm further established her reputation as a persuasive and disciplined communicator. She achieved 100 percent year-to-date sales performance for five consecutive years and was recognized as one of the company’s Sales Achievers of the Year.

Those years of presenting products, answering difficult questions, negotiating under pressure, and building trust with clients became an unexpected training ground for broadcasting.

Long before the camera arrived, Ms Pauline had already learned how to command a room.

Education Behind the Voice

Ms Pauline’s strength as a communicator is supported by an accomplished academic background.

She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in English Language from Colegio de San Agustin-Bacolod, earning a Quality Point Index of 3.65 out of 4.0.

Her academic distinctions included recognition as an Augustinian Achiever, a consistent Dean’s Lister, a leadership awardee, one of the Ten Outstanding Students of Negros, and one of the Ten Outstanding Students of Region VI in 2002. She was also nominated for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines.

She later pursued professional development in media arts, market research, trade marketing, strategic planning, systems thinking, leadership, and coaching for higher performance. Her training included programs conducted through the Asian Institute of Management and respected industry practitioners.

Her education gave her command of language. Her career gave her command of situations. Broadcasting now allows her to bring both strengths together.

Journalism With Intelligence and Heart

What makes Ms Pauline increasingly sought after is not only her polished appearance or confident delivery. It is her capacity to listen.

She approaches interviews with preparation but allows conversations to breathe. She can ask a serious business question without sounding intimidating and draw out a personal story without making her guest feel exposed.

Whether she is speaking with an executive, athlete, entrepreneur, public official, community leader, or aspiring young professional, Ms Pauline searches for the human story behind the public image.

Her style reflects a belief that journalism should inform audiences while respecting the dignity of the people whose stories are being told.

In a media environment frequently driven by speed, sensationalism, and fleeting attention, her approach offers something increasingly valuable: a calm, intelligent, and compassionate presence.

A New Filipino Voice to Watch

Ms Pauline’s development as a broadcast journalist and news presenter represents a natural progression rather than a sudden reinvention.

The executive who once presented business proposals now presents stories to a wider audience. The negotiator who learned to ask the right questions now uses that ability in interviews. The operations leader accustomed to pressure now brings composure and authority before the camera.

Her growing media profile also reflects a broader change in Philippine broadcasting, where audiences increasingly look for presenters who possess not only personality, but genuine knowledge and professional experience.

Ms Pauline brings both.

She represents the modern Filipino broadcast journalist: articulate yet approachable, accomplished yet relatable, authoritative yet deeply human.

From corporate boardrooms and busy ports to interviews and news presentations, Ms Pauline has carried the same qualities throughout her journey—discipline, courage, curiosity, and respect for people.

Now, as more audiences discover her distinctive presence, one thing is becoming clear: Ms Pauline is no longer merely stepping into the spotlight.

She is becoming a Filipino broadcast voice worth listening to.

Today marks Beyoncé’s birthday and the release of a voluminous remastered B’DAY, her coming-of-age second album. When it was released on September 4, 2006, music fans around the world were introduced to a 25-year-old woman with a bold, new voice. Not just a powerful singing voice, but an artist determined to take over her career as a singer, songwriter, producer, and visual artist. She recorded the album in a two-week session, fully cemented at the helm, and knowing exactly what she wanted to create. She was pushing herself, revealing layers to her innovative approach to recording, writing, and producing. That fierce and urgent approach was extended to all her collaborators, with each one digging a little deeper to define the sound of her deeply personal album.

“I wanted the album to be big, percussive, hard, up-tempo, and energized, and it was important to me that we used live instrumentation,” she recalls. “Hip-hop was taking over at the time, but I was fighting to preserve the bridges, melodies, and harmonies that have always been at the heart of R&B. The goal was to blend those two worlds through the art of sampling. I loved the minimalism of a beautiful vocal arrangement over a simple drum loop or a classic guitar like ‘Irreplaceable’…but only if that 808 was banging underneath.”

B’DAY was essentially her first visual album, with short films that explored the making of a relationship in full, through every turn. It was a conceptual project, urgent and captivating. Its themes of finding one’s confidence, liberation, audacity and compatibility are as relevant today as they were two decades ago.

And in preparing for this milestone release, Beyoncé once again went back to the boards and worked on remastering songs. The videos, originally captured on 35mm are now remastered and re-colored and finished in 4k, including “Déjà Vu,” featuring JAY-Z, and directed by Sophie Muller, also out today.

Images, shot on location in New Orleans, and never seen before, are also included. New Orleans, where Beyoncé’s family has deep roots, was working on rebuilding following the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina. The Big Easy’s resilience and fortitude served as inspiration for Beyoncé who wanted to contribute in her own way to the city’s revitalization.

When news of the B’DAY (20th Anniversary Edition) broke last July 4th, it was ushered in by the song “MORNING DEW (DONK).” Astute fans quickly pointed to the history of the song, which leaked in 2023. A remix of the track, featuring JAY-Z, was delivered on August 4th, solidifying the song’s placement among the twenty-three-year plus history of collaborations between the Carters.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition is replete with a celebratory offering of Spanish language songs that speak to Beyoncé’s love and admiration for the culture and the incredible artists who contributed and continue to build on the genre. “Cuerpo Tumbao (Get Me Bodied) feat. Maluma” marks a first-time collaboration with the Colombian artist, one of the leading voices in Latin music. She has been a fan of his work and feels flattered to finally work with this multi-genre artist. A philanthropist in every way, Beyoncé applauds Maluma for the work he does in his country to help young people through the arts, and through humanitarian efforts following the recent earthquake. The song contains a sample of Afro-Cuban star, Celia Cruz’s “La Negra Tiene Tumbao.” Beyoncé has long admired Cruz’s pride in her African culture; her refusal to bend in the wake of racism, colorism and the narrow definition of beauty. In a time when society wanted her to be bitter and broken down, she boldly claimed her Blackness. The sample was the perfect fit for a song that pushes strength and confidence on the dancefloor and in life. The song was produced by Beyoncé, Edgar Barrera, CASTA and co-produced by Ali “Ali Ali” Alvarez. 

“Irreemplazable (Como La Flor) featuring Selena” is a momentous inclusion. Selena was one of the most celebrated Mexican American entertainers and was known as the “Queen of Tejano Music.” Since her passing in 1995, her estate rarely grants use of her music. This resounding approval for Beyoncé from Selena Quintanilla’s estate made it possible for this timely and meaningful duet. Two women from Texas. Two unmistakable and irreplaceable voices that broke down and continues to break down barriers.

Beyoncé revered Selena and remembers listening to her on the radio in Houston. She credits her for inspiring the recording of Irreemplazable, her Spanish EP released in 2007.B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition – Deluxe Vinyl – a 4LP edition pressed on 180G Bayou Blue Vinyl. It features “MORNING DEW (DONK),” Spanish recordings, and B-Sides. It comes with a 60-page commemorative booklet and two collectible double-sided art prints. The Deluxe Vinyl is jampacked with massive, new gems including “Can I Watch You”, produced by Beyoncé and Pharrell, and “My First Time,” which was originally recorded for Beyoncé’s debut solo album, DANGEROSUSLY IN LOVE, but was taken off the final track list. Also included here are “Lost Yo Mind,” “Creole” and “Back Up,” B-sides that were not included on B’DAY in 2006.

B’DAY (20th Anniversary Edition), is available in standard and deluxe volumes on vinyl and CD, as well as a deluxe digital offering.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition – Standard Vinyl is a limited edition 180G 2LP with new sequencing and new tracks/remixes. It features “MORNING DEW (DONK)” and a 16-page collectible booklet with never-before-seen imagery.

B’DAY 20th Anniversary Edition Digital Deluxe – All tracks on the deluxe vinyl plus two digital-only bonus additions, “Cuerpo Tumbao (featuring Maluma)” and “Irreemplazable (Como La Flor) Featuring Selena.”

B/DAY 20th ANNIVERSARY EDITION -DIGITAL DELUXE (31 TRACKS)

1. DÉJÀ VU (FEAT. JAŸ-Z)
2. GET ME BODIED
3. SUGA MAMA
4. UPGRADE U (FEAT. JAŸ-Z)
5. RING THE ALARM
6. KITTY KAT
7. FREAKUM DRESS
8. GREEN LIGHT
9. IRREPLACEABLE
10. CHECK ON IT (FEAT. SLIM THUG)
11. BEAUTIFUL LIAR (BEYONCÉ & SHAKIRA)
12. FLAWS AND ALL
13. RESENTMENT
14. LISTEN
15. MORNING DEW (DONK)
16. MY FIRST TIME
17. CAN I WATCH YOU (FEAT. PHARRELL)
18. WELCOME TO HOLLYWOOD (FEAT. JAŸ-Z)6
19. LOST YO MIND
20. CREOLE
21. BACK UP
22. GET ME BODIED (EXTENDED MIX)
23. CUERPO (TUMBAO) FEAT. MALUMA
24. IRREEMPLAZABLE (COMO LA FLOR) FEAT. SELENA
25. AMOR GITANO (BEYONCÉ & ALEJANDRO FERNÁNDEZ)
26. LISTEN (OYE)
27. BEAUTIFUL LIAR (BELLO EMBUSTERO)
28. IRREPLACEABLE (IRREEMPLAZABLE)
29. GET ME BODIED (TIMBALAND REMIX) [FEAT. VOLTIO]
30. IRREPLACEABLE (IMPLAZABLE) [NORTEÑA REMIX]
31. GET ME BODIED (MUEVE EL CUERPO)

In celebration of PR Month, the International Public Relations Association Philippines (IPRA Philippines) is launching “PR Matters” on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook with a new 12 short-form videos that make communication practical, relatable, and useful in everyday life.

The idea is simple. People communicate every day, posting, commenting, sharing, sending messages, and interacting with people online and offline.  “PR Matters” on social media turns lessons from professional communicators into short, conversational videos that anyone can understand and use in everyday life.

Every Monday, “PR 101” makes communication basics easy to understand, with IPRA Philippines chairperson Claire Papa, past chairpersons Joy Buensalido, and Jingjing Romero, and Abigail Ho-Torres discussing topics such as influencer promotions, why some stories make the news, and how is PR different from advertising and marketing.

“PR IRL” brings real-life communication stories to social media every Wednesday.  IPRA Philippines vice chair Kane Errol Choa, director Charisse Chuidian, past chair Noel Nieva, and secretary Rowena Capulong Reyes look back at widely discussed PR cases and issues that made media headlines, and sharing simple lessons we can still use today.

“PReady FR FR,” featuring IPRA Philippines treasurer Wilford Wong and past IPRA Philippines chairperson Millie Dizon, offers practical communication tips for everyday life from what to check before posting online and why you shouldn’t immediately forward messages from your group chat to navigating cancel culture and social media habits that can affect how others see you. New episodes drop every Friday.

“PR Matters” began as a weekly column on public relations and communication. IPRA Philippines also published “PR Matters: A Communicator’s Guide to Public Relations in the Philippines” in 2023 and has brought PR practitioners to students through its CommuniTalks sessions at UP Diliman, Far Eastern University, and Centro Escolar University.

IPRA Philippines is the Philippine chapter of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), a global organization of public relations professionals.

Follow PR Matters by IPRA Philippines and catch the 12 short-form videos every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

DC Studios’ Supergirl will make its global streaming debut exclusively on HBO Max on Thursday, September 10. Supergirl stars Milly Alcock, Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, with David Corenswet, and Jason Momoa.

In its inaugural flight into the new DC Cinematic Universe, Supergirl reveals the origin of the interplanetary nomad Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, cousin of Kal-El, better known as Superman. Headstrong, worldly-wise, and often reckless, Supergirl exudes a brand of heroism all her own—truthful, relatable, and always on her own terms. But when an unexpected and ruthless adversary strikes too close to home, Kara reluctantly joins forces with an unlikely companion. Together they undertake an epic, interstellar journey, struggling to balance one’s need for vengeance with the pursuit of justice—and to save the life of Kara’s best friend, her dog Krypto. Ultimately Supergirl will prove that doing good can be tough… and it doesn’t always have to be nice.  

The movie is written by Ana Nogueira, directed by Craig Gillespie and produced by DC Studios’ heads Peter Safran and James Gunn. Based on characters created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the movie is executive produced by Nigel Gostelow, Chantal Nong Vo and Lars P. Winther. 

Stream Supergirl on HBO Max from September 10. Subscribe to HBO Max at www.hbomax.com from only ₱149/month & ₱1,040/12 months and stream via your preferred device.

The feel-good moments in the series continue as Gabo and Sam play as fake husband and wife. Sam continues to pretend to have amnesia so that she can investigate Gabo and his supposed connection to her mortal enemies, the Zafras.

Viewers can expect more heart-fluttering scenes as Gabo and Sam’s interest in each other becomes more apparent, exchanging sweet smiles while dancing together at a birthday celebration of Rudy (Joey Marquez), Gabo’s father. However, Gabo may find himself in an action-packed encounter once again when Django’s (Jhong Hilario) group causes a commotion at the party.

Will Gabo and Sam catch real feelings for one another?

Don’t miss the feel-good vibes in “Coco Martin’s Sigabo,” weeknights at 8 PM on ALLTV2, TV5, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live on YouTube at Facebook, and iWant. Viewers outside of the Philippines can watch on The Filipino Channel (TFC) on cable and IPTV.

By Rose Ariane Lope
Writer, Podcast Host & Creator of Music Stargazer

For Hazel Faith Santos, 2026 has become a year of new stages, new stories, and new possibilities.

Fresh from releasing her sophomore album LSS (Love Song Stories), the Filipino singer-songwriter has been moving between music and musical theatre, bringing her artistry from the Philippines to Singapore while continuing to expand her presence as a songwriter and performer.

And in the span of just a few months, Hazel has found herself at the center of several exciting chapters.

A Song for Eurovision Asia

While Hazel was celebrating LSS, another song she wrote was entering a new international conversation.

Her composition “Good For You,” performed by Ryssi Avila, became one of ten entries in the Philippines’ inaugural selection for the Eurovision Song Contest Asia.

The song is about breaking toxic cycles in a relationship and choosing to love someone better—to recognize unhealthy patterns and become a better version of yourself for the person you love.

The Philippine Selection Night took place on August 30, with ten original songs competing for the opportunity to represent the country at the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest Asia in Bangkok.

Although “Good For You” did not finish in the official top three, its inclusion was another significant milestone for Hazel as a songwriter. Her work had entered a new platform designed to bring Filipino music into a wider Asian conversation.

And there was an interesting twist to Hazel’s Eurovision chapter.

She wasn’t even in Manila for the final.

She was in Singapore.

Hazel Faith in Singapore

Hazel’s Singapore trip became a chapter of its own.

Before stepping onto the stage as Luna in Muse Arts’ original family musical DREAMS, Hazel also made an appearance at the Not So Little Fair at Suntec Convention Centre, a family-focused event featuring live entertainment and activities for children and families.

There, Hazel performed “Everything Takes Time,” bringing one of her most personal songs to a Singapore audience.

The moment feels particularly meaningful considering the song’s history.

Written years ago, “Everything Takes Time” has become a reflection of Hazel’s own journey—of waiting, growing, making mistakes, and eventually finding herself in places she once could only imagine.

From that song to LSS, and now to Singapore, the title has taken on an almost prophetic quality.

But the biggest Singapore chapter was still to come.

Hazel joined DREAMS at Gateway Theatre, taking on the role of Luna, a curious, imaginative and big-hearted young girl who sees the world through wonder and possibility.

Luna believes deeply in dreams—even when they don’t immediately make sense.

It is a role that feels especially fitting for Hazel, whose own career has been built around following unexpected possibilities.

Earlier this year, she also appeared in Super Star Kingdom in the Philippines, playing Host, a character within the musical’s fantastical universe, alongside Sheki Arzaga, formerly of MNL48, and Sophia of KAIA.

From Super Star Kingdom to DREAMS, Hazel is showing that her artistry extends beyond the recording studio.

She can write the story.

She can sing it.

And now, she can step inside it.

The Next Stage: PPOP Music Awards

Hazel’s 2026 story isn’t slowing down.

On October 18, 2026, she will take the stage at the PPOP Music Awards at the Araneta Coliseum, performing alongside her husband Caleb Santos and his group X8.

X8 consists of Caleb Santos, Kiko Ramos, and Carlo Lazerna, all former members of P-POP group XLR8.

The upcoming performance brings together several parts of Hazel’s current chapter: music, collaboration, performance, and the people who have helped shape her artistic journey.

After an album release, a Eurovision Asia selection, and a series of performances in Singapore, Hazel is heading back to one of the Philippines’ biggest stages.

A Bigger Chapter

Hazel Faith’s story has always been about trusting the process.

But 2026 feels different.

Her songs are reaching new audiences. Her songwriting is entering international spaces. Her album has given listeners a fuller picture of who she is. And musical theatre has opened another door for her as a performer.

From LSS to Eurovision Asia, from performing “Everything Takes Time” in Singapore to becoming Luna in DREAMS, Hazel is proving that there is more than one way for a Filipino artist to cross borders.

And perhaps the best part is that she isn’t leaving her stories behind.

She’s taking them with her.

Catch Hazel Faith at the PPOP Music Awards on October 18, 2026, at the Araneta Coliseum, where she will perform alongside Caleb Santos and X8. Tickets are available now.

For an artist who once wrote that everything takes time, Hazel Faith is discovering that sometimes, when the moment finally arrives, it comes all at once.

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De Guzman has been selected as an official JKA Philippines Brand Ambassador, giving the promising athlete a new responsibility: to represent the discipline, respect, humility and strength of character promoted by traditional Japanese karate.

Currently a 1st kyu brown belt, De Guzman trains at JKA Lipa, an affiliate of JKA Philippines. Although he is still a student, he has already won gold medals in several tournaments and is steadily working toward an even greater dream—to compete internationally and carry the Philippine flag at the JKA World Cup in Japan.

“Every medal represents the hours of training, discipline, sacrifice and determination that people do not always see,” De Guzman said.

A Mother’s Influence Begins the Journey

Behind De Guzman’s growing success is a familiar Filipino story: a young person encouraged by the love and guidance of his family.

His mother, who also practiced karate when she was younger, introduced him to the martial art when he was nine years old. What began as a new activity soon developed into a serious commitment.

“I wanted to become physically stronger, develop discipline and eventually compete in tournaments through honest effort, hard work and integrity,” he recalled.

His parents remain the most influential people in his life, supporting him as he manages the responsibilities of school, training and competition.

“I most want to make my parents proud because they have supported and encouraged me throughout my journey,” he said. “Their sacrifices and belief in me motivate me to train harder and become a better karate practitioner and person.”

For Filipino families raising children in a world filled with distractions and pressure, De Guzman’s journey demonstrates how sports and martial arts can give young people direction, confidence and a strong sense of responsibility.

Learning Not to Give Up

Under the guidance of Sensei Kim Masayuki Torres, De Guzman has learned that karate is not only about speed, strength or winning medals. It is also about remaining committed when progress becomes slow and training becomes difficult.

Some of his most memorable experiences happened during exhausting training sessions when he had to decide whether to stop or continue.

“Those moments taught me that improvement often begins exactly when you feel like stopping,” he said.

Like many Filipino students involved in competitive sports, De Guzman sometimes finds it challenging to balance his homework and academic obligations with regular karate training.

“There were times when I felt discouraged because balancing karate with schoolwork became difficult,” he admitted. “I continued by remembering why I started and reminding myself that giving up would take me farther away from my goals.”

Karate has helped him become physically stronger while also developing his patience, concentration, confidence and emotional resilience.

Courage to Face Stronger Opponents

De Guzman especially enjoys kumite, the sparring component of karate. Rather than feeling intimidated by stronger or more experienced opponents, he sees every difficult match as an opportunity to learn.

“Competing against stronger karate practitioners challenges me to study their techniques, recognize my weaknesses and improve,” he explained.

His favorite technique is the spinning hook kick, which requires speed, accuracy, timing and control. He believes the technique reflects his own personality—determined, willing to take risks and prepared to practice repeatedly until he gets something right.

Defeat, he added, should never be treated as the end of the journey.

“Losing reveals what I need to improve,” he said. “It motivates me to train harder and gives me an opportunity to return stronger and better prepared.”

Carrying the JKA Philippines Emblem

De Guzman said he was surprised when he first learned that he had been selected as a JKA Philippines Brand Ambassador.

“When I understood what the role meant, I felt incredibly happy, grateful and honored,” he shared.

The recognition, however, comes with a responsibility that extends beyond photographs, interviews and public appearances. As one of the organization’s emerging public faces, De Guzman understands that his conduct may influence how other people view JKA Philippines and karate itself.

“People may judge the organization through my behavior,” he said. “I must conduct myself properly, remain humble and set a positive example wherever I go.”

Inside the dojo, he intends to train seriously, observe proper etiquette and respect his instructors and fellow karate practitioners. Outside it, he hopes to live by the same principles and become a responsible example for other Filipino youths.

“When I wear the JKA emblem, I represent JKA Philippines and the values of discipline, respect, humility and dedication,” he said.

Karate Against Bullying

De Guzman also wants young Filipinos to understand that karate should never be used to frighten, dominate or hurt other people.

Proper training, he explained, teaches students to control their strength and use their skills responsibly. In this way, karate can discourage bullying by developing respect, patience, confidence and self-control.

“Karate is not simply about fighting,” he said. “It is about discipline, respect, self-control and becoming a better version of yourself.”

He believes that true strength is not measured solely by physical power.

“True strength begins when you learn to control yourself, confront your fears and continue moving forward,” he added.

An Inspiration to Filipino Youth

As a Brand Ambassador, De Guzman particularly hopes to inspire young people who think they are too shy, weak or inexperienced to enter a dojo.

“Everyone begins somewhere,” he said. “You do not need to be strong, confident or experienced on your first day. You only need the courage to begin and the willingness to learn, practice and improve.”

His message is especially meaningful for young Filipinos who may be afraid to try something because they fear failure or believe they are not naturally talented.

For De Guzman, talent alone is never enough. Lasting progress comes from discipline—the decision to keep working even when nobody is watching and no reward is guaranteed.

“A medal is a meaningful achievement, but character stays with you throughout your life,” he said. “It influences how you treat people, respond to difficulties and use your success.”

A Filipino Dream Bound for Japan

De Guzman now has his sights set on competing at the JKA World Cup in Japan, where he hopes to represent the Philippines with pride, humility and honor.

He believes Filipino resilience, determination, respect for others and strong family values naturally complement the traditions of JKA karate.

For this young Batangueño, representing the Philippines would mean more than entering an international tournament. It would be an opportunity to demonstrate what disciplined Filipino athletes can accomplish when supported by their families, mentors and communities.

His journey from a nine-year-old beginner to a medal-winning athlete and JKA Philippines Brand Ambassador is only beginning. Yet the personal motto that guides him already carries a message capable of inspiring an entire generation:

“Keep improving and never give up.”

For Chris De Guzman, these are not merely words for a poster. They are a Filipino athlete’s promise—to his parents, his dojo and the country he dreams of representing on the world stage.

 by Miss Pauline

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Brazo de Mercedes (Mercedes Arm) is a classic Filipino dessert featuring a pillowy meringue filled with rich, creamy yema custard. This impressive cake roll is a bakery-level treat that’s easy to make at home and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Brazo de Mercedes is a jelly roll made with a pillowy meringue wrapped around a…

The post Brazo de Mercedes appeared first on Kawaling Pinoy.

“If anyone wants to do radiology, you should not do diagnostic radiology. You must be an interventional radiologist,” Dr. Ang Peng Tiam, medical director and senior consultant of PCC, said during a media launch.

“(This means) that you must be the person who does the angiogram, to block off the vessels, the one who does the biopsy, and not the one who just reads the X-rays.”

“Because that reading in the future will all be done by computer and AI. So this is a whole learning process,” he also said.

Mr. Ang’s statement stems from the center’s experience with a lung cancer patient, where a radiologist initially identified only three nodules in the lungs, but subsequent AI-assisted analysis revealed a total of 20 nodules.

This discrepancy created a clinical dilemma, forcing doctors to weigh whether they should still recommend surgery based on the traditional human reading of three nodules — which academic literature suggests could offer a 25% chance of a cure — or reconsider treatment because the AI detected 20 nodules, he said.

Because historical medical research has been based entirely on human visual recognition rather than computer counts, physicians face a complex learning curve in determining how to interpret and act on these machine-detected findings.

“So that’s why when you look at the whole field of medicine, there are two areas which have changed and will be changed in a very big way: one is diagnostic radiology, and two is pathology,” Mr. Ang said.

Although AI in medicine is emerging, he said the technology can never replace humans, as healthcare also entails “the element of trust, care, and hope,” which he noted that only humans can provide.

Mr. Ang’s statement comes as the AI in healthcare market is projected to be valued at $28.2 billion in 2026 and grow to $146.3 billion by 2031, representing an annual growth rate of 39%, according to Wissen Research, a global consulting firm. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

The showcase comes at a time when businesses are looking for technologies that can strengthen their operations, respond to changing market demands, and create new avenues for growth. By bringing Taiwan brands and their capabilities to Manila, the pavilion provides a venue for Philippine businesses to explore technologies, establish industry connections, and consider potential areas of cooperation.

Rather than focusing solely on individual products, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion highlights the broader capabilities behind them, from research, design, manufacturing, and technology. The participating brands demonstrate how Taiwan’s innovation ecosystem continues to develop products with applications across multiple sectors and international markets.

Connecting Taiwan’s Technology with Philippine Businesses

For companies seeking new technologies and international partners, Taiwan Expo 2026 offers an avenue to engage with Taiwan businesses and understand their areas of expertise.

The pavilion will feature messages from representatives of paticipating Taiwan companies and organizations, offering perspectives on their work and the role of innovation in addressing emerging market needs. The exhibition also creates space for potential business relationships. Philippine companies can explore solutions relevant to their sectors, while Taiwan participants gain an opportunity to better understand the Philippine market and identify areas for future partnerships.

Four Sectors, One Vision for Growth

The 24 featured products are grouped into four categories: Intelligent Technology, Smart Life, Smart Healthcare, and Consumer Electronics. Intelligent Technology covers developments in connected systems and advanced computing. Smart Life focuses on products designed for modern environments and changing consumer needs. Smart Healthcare brings together tools related to health, wellness, and care, while Consumer Electronics highlights products supporting an increasingly digital economy.

It also illustrates how innovation can extend across sectors rather than confined to a single field. As technology becomes increasingly interconnected with business, healthcare and daily life, cross-industry expertise becomes a systemic part of building a resilient market.

Strengthening Regional Business Connections

The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion forms part of a wider effort to strengthen trade relationships between Taiwan and international markets. The value of the exhibition extends beyond the three-day event. Business conversations that begin at the pavilion can lead to deeper discussions around market entry, distribution, technology integration, and other forms of commercial collaboration.

The Taiwan Excellence Pavilion will also feature Ivana Alawi and Dimples Romana, who will join the event and explore the consumer benefits of participating Taiwan brands. Their involvement connects the business-focused exhibition with a wider Filipino audience, showing that developments in technology can have relevance beyond the corporate environment.

Fu Bear, the brand ambassador of Taiwan Excellence, whose job is to share Taiwan’s best products, tech, healthy, and eco-friendly lifestyle with the world, will likewise be present throughout the three-day event, welcoming guests and adding an interactive element to the pavilion experience.

As Taiwan and the Philippines continue to build stronger connections, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion stands as a mee ng point for ideas, industries and opportunities that can help shape what comes next.

For more information and updates on the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion at Taiwan Expo 2026, follow Taiwan Excellence on social media (FB: @TaiwanExcellence.ph, IG: @taiwanexcellence_ph, LinkedIn: Taiwan excellence).

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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Fruity, frozen, and refreshingly unexpected, the new lineup combines high-quality tea, real fruit flavors, and an icy blended texture rarely found in traditional tea beverages. The result is a vibrant, thirst-quenching drink experience that reimagines how tea can be enjoyed.

The series features three distinct flavors. The Frozen Berry Burst Tea blends juicy berries for a bright, expressive drink with a naturally tart finish. The Frozen Pink Drop Tea brings delicate dragon fruit notes, offering a light, crisp, and subtly sweet refreshment. Meanwhile, the Frozen Peach Pop Tea delivers the gentle sweetness of peach, balanced by a soft fragrance and smooth finish.

Whether you’re taking a break between errands or looking for something different to sip while you shop, the Frozen Fruit Teas offer a refreshing alternative to your usual café order.

Tea tastes even better when it’s frozen, fruity, and completely unexpected. And with CBTL’s Frozen Fruit Teas exclusively available at SM Store, every shopping trip comes with a refreshingly different way to pause, recharge, and enjoy the moment.

Spotlight is  BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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Cignal is bringing Filipino sports fans even closer to the biggest sporting events from around the world as it welcomes back beIN SPORTS to its sports channel lineup beginning Aug. 28, 2026.

Through the renewed partnership, Cignal subscribers will gain access to beIN SPORTS 1, beIN SPORTS 2, and beIN SPORTS 3, offering even more world-class football, motorsports, tennis, cycling, and other international competitions LIVE and in HD.

“Sports have always had a unique ability to bring Filipinos together, whether we’re cheering for our homegrown athletes or following the world’s biggest competitions,” said Christopher C. Lizo, Officer-in-Charge and Senior Vice-President/Chief Finance Officer of Cignal TV, Inc. “As Filipino athletes like Alex Eala continue to make their mark on the world stage, we want our viewers to be part of that journey while also giving them access to the teams, athletes, and competitions they love. With beIN SPORTS back on Cignal, we’re bringing even more of the world’s biggest sporting moments closer to Filipino fans.”

More of the World’s Biggest Sports

Motorsports fans can experience the speed and excitement of Formula 1, following the world’s top drivers and teams as they race across iconic circuits around the globe. The sport has built a passionate following in the Philippines, with audiences on beIN SPORTS doubling year on year. Fans can also catch Formula 2, Formula 3, F1 Academy, the FIA World Endurance Championship, 24 Hours of Le Mans, World Rally Championship, and other major racing series.

Football fans can follow the excitement of the UEFA Champions League, where Europe’s leading football clubs and biggest stars compete for one of the sport’s most prestigious titles. Fans can also catch the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League, along with action from Spain’s LaLiga and Germany’s Bundesliga, two of Europe’s premier football leagues, as well as the UEFA Women’s Champions League and Women’s Super League.

Tennis fans can follow two of the sport’s four Grand Slam tournaments, the Australian Open and Roland-Garros. With growing interest in tennis among Filipino audiences, fueled in part by the rise of homegrown talents on the international stage, fans can watch the world’s best players compete on two of the sport’s biggest stages, from the hard courts of Melbourne to the clay courts of Paris.

Beyond the Grand Slams, tennis fans can also catch major international events such as the United Cup and Laver Cup. The racket sports lineup extends to Premier Padel, featuring top players from the growing global sport of padel.

beIN SPORTS rounds out its diverse lineup with even more international sporting action, including cycling’s Tour de France and La Vuelta, World Athletics, SailGP, and more.

With major leagues, tournaments, and championships happening throughout the year, Cignal subscribers can look forward to even more live sports across the beIN SPORTS channels.

Strengthening Cignal’s Home of Sports

The arrival of beIN SPORTS builds on Cignal’s growing sports lineup, spanning the biggest sporting moments at home and major competitions from around the world.

Cignal’s sports lineup starts at home, with One Sports, One Sports+, and PBA Rush bringing Filipino fans closer to the country’s biggest leagues, teams, and athletes.

Cignal also offers dedicated channels made for Filipino sports fans, including the UAAP Varsity Channel and NBA TV Philippines, giving fans more ways to follow the competitions they love, from collegiate sports in the Philippines to world-class basketball from the NBA.

Beyond its homegrown and dedicated channels, Cignal brings more international sports to Filipino viewers through Fight Sports, Premier Sports 1 and 2, and SPOTV 1 and 2. The addition of beIN SPORTS 1, 2, and 3 further strengthens this lineup with even more major competitions from around the world.

Together, Cignal’s growing sports lineup gives Filipino fans a front-row seat to more of the sports they love, from local leagues and homegrown athletes to some of the world’s biggest sporting events, all in HD.

beIN SPORTS on Cignal 

Beginning Aug. 28, 2026, subscribers can catch beIN SPORTS 1 on Channel 276, beIN SPORTS 2 on Channel 277, and beIN SPORTS 3on Channel 278.

The three channels will be available to Cignal Postpaid subscribers on Plans 520 and up and Cignal Prepaid subscribers on Loads 600 and up.

For more information on Cignal and its subscription offers, visit mycignal.ph, call #88555, or message m.me/BuyCignal.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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Gil G. Chua Is Still Building — and Still Teaching Us How 

By Anna Chua Norbert, his eldest daughter

Most people, on their birthday, look back. My father looks at what’s next.

He has spent more than four decades building a company, and this past year, he had to rebuild it — not because he wanted to, but because the world changed under his feet. When Omnicom decided to retire the DDB brand globally, the agency he’d nurtured for 33 years lost the name it had worn since before I was born. It would have been reasonable for him to feel that a piece of his life’s work had been taken from him.

Instead, he asked a better question. Not “what do we call ourselves now,” but “who are we, really, underneath the name?”

Who Are We Now?

He didn’t hire a branding consultant to answer that question. He asked the people who worked for him.

“Who do you work for?” he asked, across the organization.

The answer came back the same way, again and again: “GGC.” Not the network. Not the holding company. Him — or rather, what his initials had come to mean inside those walls.

That’s how DDB Group Philippines became GGC Group Asia. The name wasn’t invented in a boardroom. It was already alive in how people spoke about their own workplace, long before it went on the door.

THE TAKEAWAY — Culture is the asset that survives

Logos, networks, and contracts can be taken away overnight. What can’t be taken is what people believe about how work gets done in your building. Before your next rebrand, restructuring, or crisis, ask your own people the question my father asked his: not what should we be called, but what do you already believe we are? The answer is usually the truest strategy document you’ll ever get for free.

Building Leaders, Not Followers

If the rebrand answered who we are, the next project answered what we do about it. My father calls it The GGC Way — a codification of the habits he used to teach one conversation at a time, now written down so anyone in the company can learn them without needing years of proximity to him.

Respond with discipline. Bring solutions, not complaints. Protect the dignity of clients and teammates. Measure what you execute. Leave people and places better than you found them. And there’s a visible ladder for anyone who lives by it — coordinator to senior, manager, director, principal, equity partner.

In the book Abundance, Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson argue that progress doesn’t come from good intentions alone — it comes from institutions with the actual capacity to build. My father has always understood this instinctively. For him, abundance was never about having more for himself. It’s about building the kind of systems that let more people succeed without him in the room.

Shared success means multiplying leadership, not multiplying dependence on the leader.

THE TAKEAWAY — Write it down before it walks out the door

If your best judgment only exists in your own head, your organization’s ceiling is your own bandwidth — and your risk is that it leaves when you do. Turn your instincts into a document your newest hire can read on day one. That’s not bureaucracy. That’s succession planning disguised as a handbook.

Awards He Didn’t Chase — and One That Will Outlive Him

The recognitions came anyway. The Creative Guild of the Philippines gave him the Kidlat Lifetime Achievement Award. Junior Achievement of the Philippines gave him the Tanglaw ng Kabataan Award, one of its rarest honors, for a lifetime spent preparing young Filipinos for the world beyond their diploma.

Then Junior Achievement did something my father has never done for himself: they put his name on something that will keep giving after he’s gone. The Gil G. Chua Marketing Excellence Award, inspired by the Sarimanok — a Filipino symbol of good fortune — will recognize marketing mentors, companies, and schools that use creativity to build businesses, create opportunities, and uplift communities. Four words anchor it: Creativity. Purpose. Impact. Legacy.

But if you ask me what people will actually remember about my father, it isn’t the plaques. It’s that he made other people believe they could lead, too.

From individual Clubs to One district.

Here is what he did the week after the honors came in: he went back to teaching.

He was personally invited to speak to a few Rotary clubs and noticed the same gap in every one — good people doing meaningful community work, without the communications skill to make that work visible or supported. His answer was pure Gil Chua: don’t teach the same lesson fifteen separate times. Do it en banc. 300 people from Rotary District 3830 learn public relations and media strategy in one room.

THE TAKEAWAY — Design for scale, not just for effort

The instinct to help one person at a time feels generous, but it caps your impact at the size of your calendar. Before you repeat a lesson for the fifth time, ask my father’s question: could this be one room instead of five? The multiplier is usually sitting right there, waiting for someone to bother meeting it.

Making Good News in a Fearful Season

This past year has not been an easy one for optimism. The war involving Iran pushed up energy and operating costs, rattled markets, and made companies pull back spending. The cost of living kept climbing. And the news cycle, as it always does in hard seasons, kept finding new reasons for people to feel afraid.

So my father built a magazine about hope. He calls it Tayo Mismo — a platform for the Filipinos who are quietly solving problems, serving their communities, and making the country better, whether or not anyone is watching.

He knows bad news sells. He’s spent a career in media; nobody has to explain that to him. But he also understands something most media strategists never say out loud: we become what we keep looking at. If a country is only shown its failures, it starts to believe failure is all it has. The good is already happening. Someone just has to keep pointing the camera at it.

Hope is not denial. It is the decision to notice what is already working, and help it grow.

THE TAKEAWAY — Optimism is a discipline, not a mood

In hard quarters, the instinct is to go quiet or go grim. Do the opposite, deliberately: build a habit — a newsletter, a Friday wins-thread, a standing agenda item — that forces your team to name what’s working. Not to spin the bad news away, but to make sure the good news has somewhere to live. Attention is a resource. Spend some of it on purpose.

The Measure of a Life

My father’s legacy was never going to fit neatly into revenue or awards. It’s in the numbers that took decades to build quietly: women now make up 68 percent of GGC Group Asia’s workforce, 70 percent of its senior management, and 53 percent of its Board. Nobody handed him a mandate to build that. He just kept opening doors and then stepped back to let people walk through them. Today, GGC Group Asia employs 7700 nationwide.

It’s in the Rotary clubs that can now tell their own stories. In the 2,000,000 students learning that professionalism is predictable, that calm is a form of power, and that consistency is what turns trust into scale. In every reader of Tayo Mismo who closes the app believing, a little more, that the country is worth investing in.

What I Want You to Take From This

I could tell you my Papa is a great businessman, and he is. But the more useful thing I can tell you — is this: every hard turn in this story became a system, not just a story. The rebrand became a values exercise. The recognition became an award for other people. The Rotary visits catalyst a scaled conference to reach more people. The hardest news cycle in years became a magazine about what’s still good.

When circumstances force an ending, you get to decide what kind of beginning it becomes.

That is the real inheritance he’s building — not a company name, but a habit of turning whatever happens to you into something that helps the next person.

Happy Birthday, Papa

The future is always bright with GGC around. And the best really is yet to come — because you never stopped building it for the rest of us.

With all my love,

Anna

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Known for their sharp-witted songwriting, infectious guitar pop melodies, and anthemic tunes, The Itchyworms have taken OPM to exciting new places. Their upcoming shows in New Zealand offers Filipino audiences abroad a spirited connection to home while introducing new listeners to the richness and character of OPM.

According to Jugs Jugueta, the tour is about reconnecting with Filipino communities and rediscovering the best the Philippines has to offer. “It’s very humbling. It’s really great that the world is now discovering all things Filipino,” he says, noting the growing global appreciation for Filipino culture, artists, and music.

With stops spanning four cities across NZ, Jugueta looks forward to sharing the experience with both Filipinos and their Kiwi friends. “We encourage all Filipinos to bring their Kiwi friends and family so that we can show them how Filipinos party!”

Meanwhile, drummer and vocalist Jazz Nicolas describes the band’s cross-generational songwriting as one of the things Filipinos and foreigners should look forward to: “It’s like hiding medicine in chocolate. We like to put petty or tragic lyrics inside a catchy pop melody.” That distinctive balance of humor, heartbreak, and melody has helped make The Itchyworms’ music appeal across borders. Nicolas also sees the tour as an opportunity to introduce OPM to an even wider audience.

NEW ZEALAND TOUR DATES:

AUCKLAND — September 18 | Galatos

WELLINGTON — September 19 | Notre Dame Performing Arts Center

QUEENSTOWN — September 25 | Queenstown Memorial Center

CHRISTCHURCH — September 26 | Christ’s College Auditorium

Tickets are priced at $99 NZD for Standing VIP (including a photo opportunity) and $69 NZD for Standing General Admission. Tickets are available here: https://fastevents.com.au/ticket_category/the-itchyworms-new-zealand-tour-2026-tickets

Tokyo, Japan – More than four decades after Miki Matsubara first captivated Japan with her extraordinary voice, seven ultra-rare recordings from the City Pop icon’s catalogue are finally available digitally for the first time.

Released across six digital titles, these recordings have never previously been available on major streaming or download services. Long sought after by collectors and fans, the tracks were previously accessible only through rare vinyl and physical CD releases, making their digital debut a significant new chapter in the rediscovery of Matsubara’s music.

The release arrives at a remarkable moment in Matsubara’s posthumous global resurgence. Her 1979 classic “Mayonaka no Door / Stay With Me” recently surpassed 500 million Spotify streams, becoming only the 10th song by a Japanese artist to reach the milestone and the first song originally released in the 20th century to do so.

Yet while “Mayonaka no Door / Stay With Me” has become a global City Pop phenomenon, the renewed attention has also led listeners deeper into Matsubara’s catalogue, uncovering sophisticated album tracks, B-sides and lesser-known recordings that reveal the breadth of her artistry.

Among the newly available recordings is “Paradise Beach (Sophie no Theme),” a particularly sought-after track associated with the iconic Maxell cassette commercial starring French actress Sophie Marceau.

The track was composed by Haruomi Hosono, legendary musician and founding member of Yellow Magic Orchestra (Y.M.O.), connecting Matsubara’s catalogue to another pivotal chapter in the history of Japanese pop and electronic music.

The seven recordings offer a glimpse into the breadth of Matsubara’s work beyond her best-known hits, from music created for commercial and media tie-ins to rare recordings that have remained largely inaccessible to listeners outside the physical-record collecting world.

From collector’s treasures to a new generation

Matsubara’s music has experienced an extraordinary second life in the digital era.

Her distinctive, sophisticated vocals and the polished arrangements of Japan’s late-1970s and 1980s pop scene have found a new audience among international DJs, vinyl collectors and Gen Z listeners. Her catalogue now includes multiple tracks with more than 10 million Spotify streams, including “WASH,” originally released as a B-side in 1982, which has surpassed 20 million streams.

This renewed global interest has transformed recordings once considered hidden gems into objects of international fascination.

The seven newly digitised tracks now make that deeper catalogue accessible to audiences around the world – not simply revisiting Miki Matsubara’s legacy, but uncovering music that many listeners have never had the opportunity to hear.

A new chapter in Miki Matsubara’s enduring legacy

Miki Matsubara made her debut in 1979 and quickly established herself as one of Japan’s most distinctive vocal talents. Nearly half a century later, her music continues to cross borders and generations in ways few artists from her era have experienced.

With her global audience continuing to grow, these seven rare recordings offer another opportunity to discover the artistry behind one of Japan’s most enduring musical voices.

For the first time, seven pieces of Miki Matsubara’s musical history are no longer hidden in the archives or collectors’ shelves. They are now ready to be heard by the world.

Artist: Miki Matsubara 

Release Date: [August 28, 2026 0:00]  

Available Platforms: Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, AWA, 

LINE MUSIC, and other major streaming and download services.

URL: https://nex-tone.lnk.to/MikiMatsubara

Assets: Here

【Digital Release Titles & Tracklists】 

(7 tracks marked with ★ are making their digital debut) 

1. Ai wa Energy (Originally released: Dec 5, 1979) 

• M-1. Ai Wa Energy
• M-2. Fancy Free (★)
  

1. Hello Today (Originally released: Apr 21, 1980)

• M-1. Hello Today
• M-2. Machi Wa Itsumo Party Ne (★)
  

1. Aitsu no Brown Shoes (Originally released: Sep 5, 1980) 

• M-1. Aitsu No Brown Shoes 
• M-2. Kyou Konogoro (★)
  

1. Shiawase ni Bonsoir (Originally released: Jul 5, 1981) 

• M-1. Shiawase ni Bonsoir (★)
• M-2. Watashi Wa Modorenai
  

1. Paradise Beach (Sophie’s Theme) (Originally released: Apr 25, 1983) 

• M-1. Paradise Beach (Sophie’s Theme)  (★)
  (※Maxell CM Song starring Sophie Marceau / Composed by Haruomi Hosono) 
• M-2. Kimagure Collage (★)
  

1. Sweet Surrender (Originally released: Sep 21, 1983) 

• M-1. Sweet Surrender 
• M-2. WANGAN High Way (★)
  

About Miki MatsubaraBorn in Osaka Prefecture in 1959, Miki Matsubara made her debut in November 1979 with the single “Mayonaka no Door / Stay With Me.” She rapidly rose to fame with her exceptional vocal abilities and sophisticated, urban sound, winning numerous prestigious music awards. In addition to her career as a singer, she was a prolific composer, providing songs for various artists, anime series, and TV commercials.

Since the 2000s, “Mayonaka no Door / Stay With Me” has experienced a global resurgence, ignited by international DJs and influencers. The track topped viral music charts worldwide, cementing her status as an enduring, iconic artist who continues to define the global City Pop movement.

From a new smartphone you’ve had your eye on to a tablet for work and entertainment or audio gear for everyday listening, there’s something worth adding to your cart. The sale covers a wide range of OPPO devices, including everyday favorites, flagship models, tablets, and audio accessories.

Catch the deals across OPPO’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop and make 9.9 the day you finally hit “checkout” on that upgrade.

Save up to Php10,000 on select OPPO devices

Customers can enjoy vouchers worth up to Php 10,000 on select OPPO devices throughout the campaign period. Whether you’re planning a smartphone upgrade or looking for a new tablet or pair of earbuds, there are savings available across several OPPO product categories.

On Lazada and TikTok Shop, available offers include:

• Php 1,000 off: OPPO A6, OPPO Reno15 Series, OPPO Enco X3s, OPPO Enco Clip2, and OPPO A5
• Php 2,000 off: OPPO A6s, OPPO A6t Pro, and OPPO Pad SE WiFi/LTE
• Php 3,000 off: OPPO A6c and OPPO Bubble
• Php 4,000 off: OPPO Find X9
• Php 5,000 off: OPPO Reno16 Series
• Php 6,000 off: OPPO Reno14 Pro
• Php 10,000 off: OPPO Find X9 Ultra

Shopee shoppers can enjoy:

• Php 1,000 off: OPPO A6, OPPO Enco X3s, OPPO Enco Clip2, and OPPO Pad 5
• Php 2,000 off: OPPO A6s and OPPO Pad SE WiFi/LTE
• Php 3,000 off: OPPO Bubble
• Php 4,000 off: OPPO Find X9
• Php 5,000 off: OPPO Reno16 Series
• Php 10,000 off: OPPO Find X9 Ultra

Take home exclusive freebies with eligible purchases

Shoppers can get more from their 9.9 purchases with gifts available on select OPPO devices from September 1 to September 11 across OPPO’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Eligible purchases include:

• OPPO Pad SE: Free OPPO Pad SE Case
• OPPO Watch S: Free Watch S Strap in White, Black, or Yellow
• OPPO Reno15 Series: Free Tango Jet 10,000mAh Powerbank in Black
• OPPO Find X9s: Free Portable Power Gift Box
• OPPO A6 and OPPO A6s: Free Tango Jet 5000mAh Powerbank
• OPPO Reno16 Series: Free OPPO Reno16 Series x BABYMONSTER Photocards and Powerbank
• OPPO Bubble: Free OPPO Reno16 Series x BABYMONSTER Photocards
• OPPO Pad Neo: Free Keyboard Case
• OPPO Pad 5: Free Stylus and Case

TikTok Shop customers purchasing the OPPO A6x can receive free Tango Jet Earbuds as an exclusive gift with purchase.Make every checkout count during OPPO’s 9.9 Sale

Along with discounts and gifts with purchase, shoppers during the campaign period can get a chance to win one of nine OnePlus Nord Buds 2R in Blue, adding another perk to their 9.9 shopping experience.

OPPO’s 9.9 Sale runs from September 1 to September 11 across the brand’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. With savings of up to Php 10,000 and freebies available with select purchases, the campaign gives shoppers a timely opportunity to upgrade their everyday tech for less.

Know more about OPPO’s 9.9 Sale by visiting OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ and Facebook page.

Hinao works at Cafe Haru Haru, where she connects the underworld with sorcerers, while  Char is a cheerful and courageous young girl being pursued for mysterious reasons. 

Based on Takeru Hokazono’s manga, which has surpassed 4 million copies in circulation,  including digital editions, Kagurabachi will premiere in April 2027 and stream on Crunchyroll  worldwide, excluding Japan, Mainland China, North Korea, and South Korea. 

The anime is directed by Tetsuya Takeuchi, with character design by Keigo Sasaki and  animation production by Cypic (Umamusume: Cinderella Gray; The Summer Hikaru Died). 

Additional details, including further casting and production updates, will be announced at a  later date. 

– Watch the Hinao Character Trailer

– Watch the Char Character Trailer

Fast-rising duo EASY FREAK, formed by Dom Hurd and Jude Kendrick Ganasen,  kicked off on August 21st the next chapter of their career with “Only Like You Do,” the first single from their highly anticipated sophomore album ‘The Touch,’ out December 11th — a record that candidly traces the full arc of love, from the euphoria of new beginnings to the quiet grace found on the other side of heartbreak.

A masterclass in pop/funk/groove production, “Only Like You Do” sets the tone for a four-single rollout, each paired with a striking official music video steeped in 70’s and 80’s nostalgia that showcases the duo’s singular, meticulously crafted aesthetic.

As Jude puts its, « Dom had written most of this track years ago when we first started EASY FREAK in 2016. It was originally written for acoustic guitar as a very slow and melancholic song (post breakup hehe), but we changed the time signature, added some groove and funk, and brought it back to life. We’ve grown so much as songwriters and producers, and it’s always a fun time giving an older track a second chance. »

The album stands as a landmark step in the duo’s carreer: « We’ve been making music for almost 10 years, and it’s only in the last few years that we feel like we’ve really found our sound. This album feels like a culmination of all that time, all that searching, all that growing and learning. The Touch is the first time that we’ve truly been able to express our songwriting and compositional ideas. Live instrumentation is a big theme for this project; with live string and horn sections, and live drums being new additions to our recording process. The music of the 70s and 80s have always been a big influence for us, and we’ve been able to lean more into that with this project. You’ll hear the inspiration of artists/groups like Sade, Michael Jackson, CHIC, and Prince sparkling through the songs. The aesthetic of The Touch is something we put a lot of time into; inviting the listeners into this world that we’ve created. »

This release officially launches the album campaign  and opens pre-order/pre-save  — a can’t-miss moment to get ahead of one of the season’s most stylish, emotionally resonant and musically impactful rollouts.

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Gone were the formalities of competition.

For one evening, the black belts relaxed, the masters took the microphone, and the international karate community celebrated as one.

CEBU'S FAMOUS LECHON FLIES IN FOR THE OCCASION

No major Filipino celebration would be complete without something special on the table.

For the Sayonara Party, organizers went a step further.

A whole roasted pig, or lechon, was specially flown in from Cebu, long celebrated across the Philippines for its distinctive and highly prized version of the traditional Filipino feast centerpiece.

Lechon is traditionally served during fiestas, weddings, milestone celebrations and occasions reserved for important guests.

Its presence at the party carried a clear message to the visiting delegations:

This was not an ordinary dinner.

It was a Filipino celebration prepared in their honor.

The Cebu lechon quickly became one of the evening's most talked-about attractions, giving the Japanese, Indonesian and Mongolian guests another taste of Filipino culture beyond the competition venue.

GENERAL YU TRADES COMMAND FOR A MICROPHONE

The evening soon took an unexpected turn when Ysmael Yu, Sensei, Consultant to the Chairman of JKA Philippines, stepped forward for a special musical performance.

Known for a distinguished background as a Philippine Military Academy graduate, retired Police Brigadier General and Karate Sensei, Yu revealed a warmer and more playful side with his rendition of a favorite Filipino song.

The performance drew cheers from the crowd and immediately set the mood for what would become a night of spontaneous entertainment.

For a man more often associated with discipline, command and leadership, the microphone offered an entirely different stage.

And the audience loved it.

A JAPANESE SONG BRINGS CULTURES TOGETHER

Shalie Secuya followed with a special rendition of a Japanese song dedicated to the visiting delegation.

The gesture added a graceful cultural touch to the evening and drew warm applause from the Japanese guests.

The performance reflected the spirit of the entire gathering—Filipino hosts embracing Japanese culture while welcoming international friends into a celebration distinctly Filipino in warmth and hospitality.

It was a simple moment, but one that captured the closeness developed during the four-day event.

KOJI CHUBACHI'S SURPRISE PERFORMANCE STEALS THE NIGHT

Then came one of the evening's biggest surprises.

Koji Chubachi, Sensei, one of the distinguished Japanese instructors who had commanded attention on the training floor throughout the Gasshuku, unexpectedly took the microphone.

His performance came as a gesture of thanks to the Filipino hosts.

The reaction was immediate.

The room erupted in cheers and applause.

For athletes accustomed to seeing Chubachi demonstrating precise karate technique, his transformation into an entertainer became one of the night's most charming moments.

By the time the song ended, the applause seemed almost endless.

It was spontaneous, personal and unforgettable.

DAICHI INOMOTO TURNS THE PARTY INTO A MASS SING-ALONG

Another highlight came from Daichi Inomoto, a Karate black belt and fashion model, who performed a Filipino song in celebration of the successful international gathering.

The performance began as a solo.

It did not stay that way for long.

As the familiar melody filled the room, guests began joining in.

Karate practitioners, officials, international delegates and members of the audience sang along until the performance became an almost full-room chorus.

The moment turned Inomoto's number into one of the evening's biggest crowd experiences.

It also offered a striking contrast to the days of serious competition that had preceded it.

Only hours before, black belts stood rigidly focused on the tatami.

Now they were singing together.

FROM BLACK BELTS TO DINNER COMPANIONS

The Sayonara Party showed a side of international Karate-Do rarely seen during formal competition.

Japanese masters who had spent days correcting stances and techniques were now exchanging jokes and photographs with students.

Indonesian and Mongolian delegates shared tables with Filipino karateka.

Officials, organizers and competitors who had been working under the pressure of an international championship finally had time to relax.

The formal hierarchy of the dojo remained respected, but the evening was defined by warmth and familiarity.

The room became a mix of laughter, food, photographs, applause and music.

For many of the guests, it was the perfect ending to four demanding days.

A FILIPINO FAREWELL WITH INTERNATIONAL FLAVOR

The success of the Sayonara Party reflected one of the Philippines' strongest cultural traditions: making visitors feel at home.

The celebration combined Japanese Karate-Do, Filipino hospitality, Indonesian and Mongolian friendship, Cebu cuisine and music from different cultures.

It was elegant without being formal.

Festive without losing the respect that defined the event.

And international without losing its unmistakably Filipino character.

The party became, in many ways, the emotional closing ceremony of the tournament.

Medals recognized achievement.

The Sayonara Party celebrated relationships.

ONE LAST SONG, ONE LAST APPLAUSE

As the evening moved toward its conclusion, the international delegates gathered for photographs, conversations and final moments together before beginning their journeys home.

The Japanese masters had shared their knowledge.

The athletes had competed.

Champions had been crowned.

Now the organizers offered one final gift: an evening meant simply to be enjoyed.

The Cebu lechon had been served.

The songs had been sung.

The crowd had joined in.

And the applause had filled the room.

The 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku & Karate-Do Championship 2026 may have officially ended on the tatami, but its final memory was created around the dinner tables and microphones of the Sayonara Party.

For one unforgettable night, there were no opponents.

Only friends.

Sayonara, Davao style—warm, generous, musical and impossible to forget.

Wake up to the ultimate Filipino breakfast! This homemade Pork Tocino is perfectly sweet, savory, and caramelized with deliciously crisp edges. It’s super easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and without preservatives. Serve this tender, cured pork with garlic-fried rice and a sunny-side-up egg for a classic "Tocilog" experience. Different regions of the Philippines…

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In-line Forwarder has formed a strategic partnership with Thompson Property Management Corp. (TPMC), the official Global Channel Partner of Alibaba.com in the Philippines, to boost Filipino exporters in global trade.

This best-in-industry alliance integrates two vital pieces of the export journey: international market access and total logistics solutions.

A global leader for over 26 years, Alibaba.com is now the world’s largest B2B e-commerce platform, connecting buyers and sellers from around the globe. Its enormous scale provides a significant boost for Filipino businesses: the platform has over 50 million active buyers across 200 countries, onboarded more than 200,000 suppliers, and offers over 200 million items.

For an exporter, that massive reach translates to a concrete opportunity to bring Filipino products in front of new buyers and markets.

But getting their items discovered by customers is only the beginning.

Total logistics leader In-line Forwarder complements Alibaba.com’s digital reach with the logistics innovations and export expertise needed to get products from the Philippines to overseas. Through their team-up, In-line will provide MSME exporters access to total logistics solutions, including seafreight, international air cargo, export documentation, customs clearing, and even product warehousing required to move goods efficiently across borders. 

“For our exporters, getting an order is only half the journey. The next hurdle is figuring out how to actually get their products there efficiently, conveniently, and affordably,” said In-line Forwarder. “By combining Alibaba.com’s global reach and In-line’s logistics expertise, we want to make the entire export journey simpler for businesses of all sizes.”

Beyond logistics, the two titans also underscored the need to build the export readiness of MSMEs. They will jointly conduct exporter workshops, coaching sessions, and other programs covering international selling, e-commerce growth, export compliance, freight handling, and cross-border fulfillment.

The partnership comes as Philippine MSMEs increasingly look beyond the borders for new sources of sales. While Filipino products have significant potential internationally, smaller businesses still face barriers: getting new buyers, navigating complex export requirements, and managing shipping costs.

Their collaboration seeks to address these gaps through an innovative product order-to-shipping export solution.

“Our goal is to help more Filipino businesses confidently make the leap from being a local seller to a global company,” added TPMC. “By linking market opportunities with comprehensive logistics support, we can accelerate the conversion of international buyer interest into an actual sale.”

Ultimately, the partnership has a simple shared vision: more Filipino businesses selling globally, and more Filipino products reaching the world.

From the Philippines to the world, one shipment at a time.

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As economic activity expands beyond Metro Manila, the question facing real estate developers is also changing: how do you build places capable of supporting not only new investment, but the businesses, jobs and communities that grow around it?

For Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land, the answer has been shaped by decades of industry-anchored development.

That approach gained broader recognition at the 2026 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, where Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land were named Best Developer (Luzon). Aboitiz Economic Estates also received Best Industrial Developer for the sixth consecutive year and Best Sustainable Commercial Developer, while TARI Estate, Biz Hub at LIMA Estate and The Villages at LIMA Estate earned awards in their respective development categories.

The significance lies not simply in the number of awards, but in their breadth. Together, they recognize different dimensions of a development philosophy that starts with the economic fundamentals: investment, infrastructure and jobs, then builds the commercial, residential, institutional and lifestyle ecosystem that growing regional economies require.

“For years, our strength has been industrial development, grounded in the belief that real estate should begin with the economic fundamentals: investment, infrastructure, and jobs. From that foundation, more complete communities can grow,” said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President and CEO of Aboitiz Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land.

“To now be recognized across industrial, mixed-use, residential, sustainability, and overall development tells us that this approach is increasingly relevant beyond the category where it began. We will continue raising the benchmark for integrated development by building places where businesses can compete, people can access opportunity, and communities can grow sustainably.”

Building new centers of growth

LIMA Estate in Batangas provides the most mature expression of the model. Over three decades, LIMA Estate has evolved from an industrial estate into an integrated economic community combining industry with business, residential, education, hospitality, retail and lifestyle uses.

Its commercial district, Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, named Best Completed Mixed Use Development, has grown around an established economic base. Its offices, retail, hospitality, education and services respond to demand generated by the companies, workers, residents, students and visitors already moving through the estate.

The same ecosystem supports The Villages at LIMA Estate, recognized as Best Lifestyle Housing Development. Developed by Aboitiz Land, the residential community connects families not only to employment, but to schools, retail, dining, leisure, hospitality, open spaces and essential services within the wider LIMA ecosystem.

Together, these developments demonstrate how industrial investment can become the foundation for a more complete regional center, where economic opportunity and quality of life reinforce one another.

Decades of experience, deployed at speed

In Central Luzon, TARI Estate, named Best Industrial Estate Development, represents the next iteration. Drawing on decades of industrial development experience, Aboitiz has been able to translate a greenfield site into an emerging industrial platform in a relatively short period.

The 384-hectare estate in Tarlac is strategically positioned along the Luzon Economic Corridor, with access to major transport infrastructure and economic gateways. Major investments from Ajinomoto Philippines and Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines are establishing its industrial base, while the estate is projected to support around 60,000 jobs at full build-out.

LIMA Estate and TARI Estate therefore represent two stages of the same idea: one demonstrates what an industry-anchored economic community can become as it matures; the other shows how that experience can be applied to an emerging growth corridor.

Across its economic estates, Aboitiz Economic Estates now supports more than 260 locators, over 100,000 jobs and PHP175.4 billion in investments.

As investment increasingly moves beyond traditional metropolitan centers, Aboitiz sees an opportunity to apply this development capability to more regions of the country.

The Best Developer (Luzon) recognition reflects the broader relevance the model is gaining. An approach long rooted in industrial estates is increasingly being recognized for what it can contribute to integrated real estate: starting with jobs and investment, and building the communities and regional economies that can grow around them.

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DoH Undersecretary for Health Dr. Gloria J. Balboa said leptospirosis cases reached 5,486 from January 4 to August 26, marking a 23% decrease from the 7,163 cases logged during the same period last year.

Despite the decline in cases, DoH said it continues to implement measures as it anticipates a possible increase in cases over the next two weeks.

“So, we are expecting an increase in cases in the next two weeks due to the recent heavy rains and flooding,” DoH Secretary Dr. Edwin M. Mercado said during a press conference in Filipino.

“That is why the DOH is continuously intensifying its surveillance of leptospirosis cases, while also ensuring that its facilities remain operational and have adequate supplies,” he added.

Of the total number of cases in the National Capital Region, 158 patients are admitted to San Lazaro Hospital, the majority of whom have mild cases.

At the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI), which handles more than 90% of severe leptospirosis cases, at least 144 patients have been admitted since January, with one fatality, NKTI Executive Director Dr. Jose Dante P. Dator said. Of these, 52 are currently admitted.

Amid the surge in cases and the potential for a further increase due to the ongoing inclement weather, 33 DOH hospitals in highly affected regions have implemented fast lanes to ensure that patients with leptospirosis are attended to promptly, Dr. Mercado said.

“Patients here will be attended to immediately. If they develop symptoms such as fever, swelling, and difficulty urinating, we do not delay treatment and instead expedite the process,” Mr. Mercado said.

“After seeing the long lines of patients at San Lazaro, we set up a tent so patients could be attended to immediately, as they first need to undergo testing and have their blood drawn,” he added.

The DOH has also convened a command conference to strengthen coordination among its hospitals, prevent congestion at individual facilities, and help patients find available hospitals for treatment.

The agency has also deployed additional health workers and set up tents at hospitals such as San Lazaro to help address the surge in cases.

The DOH continues to advise the public to avoid wading through floodwaters and, if unavoidable, seek consultation at health centers and YAKAP centers to receive preventive medication. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

The PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, now in its landmark 14^th year, stands as a gold standard of real estate excellence in the country. The prestigious event crowns the nation’s most visionary developers and transformative projects that continuously shatter the boundaries of design, innovation, sustainability, and community impact.

Standing out in this highly competitive arena, DLI was honored with the highly coveted Best Boutique Developer award for the second consecutive year and the third time since 2020. As the only Mindanao-homegrown property developer this year, the company has earned this distinct recognition as a testament to its craftsmanship, forward-thinking vision, and dedication to pioneering the future of Mindanao’s real estate landscape.

“Being recognized for these prestigious awards is a powerful validation that Mindanao is leading the way in real estate innovation. Damosa Land remains steadfast in its mission to deliver world-class yet mindful projects that drive investment potential and create lasting value for generations to come,” said DLI President Ricardo Floirendo Lagdameo.

Fresh off its January 2026 groundbreaking and becoming the first project approved under the newly launched Securing and Expanding Capital in Real Estate Non-Traditional Securities (SEC-RENT) framework of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), DLI’s TRYP by Wyndham Samal condotel secured two premier accolades: Best Investment Condo Development and Best Beachfront Condotel Architectural Design.

The Best Investment Condo Development award highlights the condotel’s strategic location, strong rental yield, capital appreciation, and robust property management services that make it appealing to investors, while the Best Beachfront Condotel Architectural Design award spotlights the property’s luxurious coastal design, durable climate-resilient infrastructure, and efficient hospitality layouts that maximize oceanfront views.

TRYP by Wyndham Samal, slated for completion in 2028, is a contemporary island hotel inspired by the timeless architecture of the iconic Bahay na Bato. Reimagining its sturdy stone foundations, warm timber elements, and expansive rooflines, the development integrates heritage-inspired design with modern tropical hospitality, which creates a destination that is both enduring in character and deeply connected to its local setting.

This milestone project introduces the first global hotel brand to the Island Garden City of Samal. The arrival of Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s leading hospitality groups, signals strong international confidence in Samal Island’s investment potential and as a global tourist destination. With construction of the condotel already underway, the highly anticipated TRYP by Wyndham Samal has successfully sold 70% of its units, underscoring a strong market demand and appeal to investors.

Beyond the success of TRYP by Wyndham Samal, DLI continues to build momentum through a growing portfolio of developments shaping the future of Mindanao. These recognitions come as DLI continues to expand its footprint through award-winning developments such as its agritourism township Agriya, industrial park Anflo Industrial Estate, mixed-use marina lifestyle development community Bridgeport, information technology (IT) facility Damosa IT Park, and premium residential properties Kahi Estates, Ameria, and Agriya Gardens, each designed to strengthen the region’s competitiveness while promoting responsible and sustainable development.

More than building individual properties, DLI takes an ecosystem approach to development — bringing together residential, commercial, industrial, hospitality, and community spaces that create opportunities for people and businesses to thrive. By thoughtfully integrating these developments with their surrounding communities, DLI seeks to create places that are not only valuable destinations in themselves, but also catalysts for broader economic activity and improved quality of life.

This approach reflects DLI’s position as a homegrown developer with a deep understanding of Mindanao and its potential. From creating spaces that attract global investors and businesses to developing communities that respond to the evolving aspirations of Filipino families, DLI continues to demonstrate how locally rooted development can create opportunities with far-reaching impact.

“Our goal has always been to create ecosystems in every project that we build — places where people can live, work, invest, do business, and build their futures,” Lagdameo said. “We want the value of our developments to extend beyond their boundaries and benefit not only the communities within them, but also the neighboring communities around them. For us, that is what responsible development means: creating places that generate opportunities, strengthen communities, and contribute to the long-term growth of Mindanao.”

To learn more about Damosa Land and its developments, visit https://damosaland.com/.

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SM Investments Consultant and Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability Timothy Daniels and PHIVOLCS Director Teresito C. Bacolcol signed a memorandum of agreement on Friday covering SM’s use of GeoRiskPH, a government platform that provides information on natural hazards and related risks.

Under the agreement, SM will use GeoRiskPH tools, including HazardHunterPH Pro, Geomapper PH, PlanSmart and GeoAnalyticsPH, to assess potential hydrometeorological and geological hazards affecting its facilities, assets and operational sites.

The information will be used to support planning for SM’s properties and operations, including business continuity measures and long-term investment decisions.

“Partnerships like this with the private sector contribute significantly in helping us better understand the country’s multi-faceted needs regarding resilience,” Mr. Bacolcol said.

He added that integrating data-driven hazard assessment tools into business planning is important to disaster risk reduction and sustainable development.

For SM, the partnership forms part of its efforts to incorporate climate adaptation and disaster resilience into its investment and asset management decisions.

“Understanding the risks around our properties and operations helps us make better decisions about where and how we invest,” Mr. Daniels said.

The partnership also highlights the role of private businesses in supporting national disaster resilience, particularly as SM continues to operate and expand properties across the country. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

Blending alternative R&B with contemporary pop, Eila has steadily carved out a distinct musical identity through atmospheric, soulful productions that showcase her emotional range and vocal versatility. Alongside her original music, she has built a growing audience on TikTok and Instagram through vocal performances, music and lifestyle content, and playful vocal impressions—an unconventional path that has ultimately helped lead listeners toward her original work.

“Loving Me Wrong” follows her recent single “Living Proof,” a heartfelt, feel-good anthem about the excitement of genuine love that also offered an early glimpse into the sonic direction of her forthcoming EP. While “Living Proof” leans into the warmth and exhilaration of love, her new single turns inward, confronting the complicated emotions that come with remaining in a relationship that no longer serves you.“Loving Me Wrong takes me right back to being young and naively in love, when I was caught in that volatile cycle of constant highs and lows,” Eila shares. “You convince yourself that you’re just one argument away from turning it all around.”

Rather than reducing the experience to simple heartbreak, the song recognizes the emotional contradictions that can exist within an unhealthy relationship. Eila hopes the track can offer listeners a sense of validation while also encouraging them to recognize their worth.

“I hope that anyone who’s been there can listen to the track and feel validated without any judgment,” she says. “It is completely possible to feel genuine happiness and devastating heartbreak at the exact same time. I also hope that ‘Loving Me Wrong’ can serve as a turning point and a reminder to never settle for less than you deserve.”

The song also represents a significant step forward in Eila’s development as a songwriter and performer. She describes her growth as an artist as a less linear journey than her personal development, with much of her progress coming from learning to embrace experimentation, collaboration, and vulnerability.

That evolution became particularly clear during a songwriting camp where “Loving Me Wrong” was born. Early in her songwriting journey, Eila often found herself too self-conscious to experiment freely around other writers, sometimes leaving the room simply to test melodies or lyrics on her own. Over time, however, that same collaborative environment became one of the most rewarding aspects of her creative process.

“Being in that collaborative space was a beautiful reminder that music is ultimately about connection,” she says. “That writing camp was actually where ‘Loving Me Wrong’ was born, and it really represents my evolution toward embracing vulnerability in both my music and myself.”

Eila’s return to the Philippines adds another meaningful dimension to the release. The singer was last seen in the country in 2014, when she performed a cover on the television program Walang Tulugan. At the time, she says, she did not yet have the confidence to perform her material. Twelve years and 18 releases later, she returns with a clearer sense of identity and a newfound confidence in the artist she has become.“Looking back, I definitely lacked the confidence to sing my music,” Eila recalls. “Twelve years and 18 song releases later, I’m back and finally ready to show everyone a much more confident Eila.”

Her Philippine visit is also a personal homecoming. Both of Eila’s parents grew up in the Philippines before immigrating to the United States, and her Chinese-Filipino heritage has played an important part in shaping her relationship with music. From family karaoke sessions to her parents’ unwavering support for her aspirations as a performer, Eila credits her upbringing with nurturing her passion for music and showing her how music can bring people together.

“I owe so much of my passion for music to my Chinese-Filipino roots,” she says. “More than anything, it’s the way music naturally brings our community together.”

That connection is already reflected in her growing Filipino audience. The Philippines is currently Eila’s second-largest listening market on Spotify, making her return particularly significant as she introduces “Loving Me Wrong” to Filipino listeners.

“Having that kind of support from my community gives me the energy to keep pursuing my dreams, and I’m excited to connect with even more listeners,” Eila says. She also plans to continue sharing covers of Filipino songs as a way of honoring artists who paved the way for greater Asian representation while celebrating her roots.

Eila’s new single “Loving Me Wrong” will be released on August 26, 2026, via Symphonic Distribution.

Known for their energetic performances and unmistakable sound, the Masculados are bringing back the same group fans have grown to love, this time with a more modern musical approach. And for a song like “SAGING,” siyempre kailangan may visual accompaniment, the music video will be released on the same day as the song. “SAGING” is a fun, catchy, and playful track built around cheeky lyrics about everyone’s favorite yellow fruit: bananas.

The upcoming release marks the group’s first new track following their return to Universal Records, the label that helped launch Masculados into the spotlight. Their reunion with the label has already kicked off with a fresh take on one of their biggest hits, “Jumbo Hotdog,” which received a budots makeover from internationally acclaimed Davao-based DJ, DJ Love, the artist credited with creating and popularizing the genre.

The members have expressed their excitement about working with the label again, saying, “Looking forward kami sa mga projects ulit, kasi dito nagsimula ang mga songs namin at dito naman nakilala rin ang Masculados.” While the sound may be getting a modern update, fans can still expect the same Masculados energy. The group has promised nothing less than their signature “100% kaldagan” as they enter this new chapter.

The Joy-Thru Deals run every Saturday and Sunday from August 15 to September 13, exclusively at participating Jollibee Drive-Thru stores. Customers can save ₱27 when they get two Jolly Hotdogs through the promo.

A longtime Jollibee favorite, the Jolly Hotdog is a crave-worthy and savory treat that continues to be a go-to choice for customers looking for a tasty Jollibee classic.“For many of our customers, a weekend drive-thru stop is part of their usual routine, whether they’re picking up food for the family or grabbing a quick bite. Since the Jolly Hotdog is a favorite among many, we wanted to give them a little more to enjoy during those weekend stops,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “We hope this gives our Jolly Hotdog fans something to look forward to on weekends and makes their food runs a little more enjoyable.”

The Joy-Thru Deals will be available every Saturday and Sunday until September 13 at participating Jollibee Drive-Thru stores. Prices may vary by location. Terms and conditions apply.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises.

The partnership was formalized during a contract signing held on August 15, 2026, at Illumination Studio, where Anne met with Zion Group executives before proceeding to her official campaign shoot for the brands.

Her decision to work with the company was closely tied to the convenience and innovation behind its home wellness technologies. During the event, Anne shared that what made it easier for her to say yes to Zion was the ability to access these technologies within the comfort of home, mentioning red light therapy panels, cold plunge systems, sauna solutions, and ZLEEP AI among the products that stood out to her.

One statement captured the message behind the partnership clearly. “It’s really an investment, yes it is. But you know, health is priceless,” Anne said.

Her endorsement comes as Zion Group continues to expand its presence in home wellness, recovery, fitness, and intelligent sleep. ZION Wellness focuses on technologies designed for relaxation and recovery, while ZYLO AI brings smart fitness solutions into the home. ZLEEP AI extends that ecosystem into the bedroom through mattresses and smart beds developed around artificial intelligence and responsive sleep technology.

Among the three brands, ZLEEP AI introduces one of the group’s most distinct propositions. The smart sleep line is designed to move beyond the traditional mattress experience by combining advanced materials with technologies that can respond to body position, pressure distribution, movement, and sleep-related data. Its underlying smart sleep platform is developed around areas such as ergonomics, life sciences, sleep research, materials technology, and artificial intelligence.

For Filipino consumers searching for the best mattress in the Philippines, the usual comparison often revolves around comfort, firmness, foam quality, support, and durability. ZLEEP AI adds intelligent personalization to those considerations, placing the brand among the premium options for people who want more from their mattress than a conventional sleeping surface.

Depending on the model, ZLEEP offers technologies designed for adaptive body support, adjustable positioning, sleep monitoring, breathing and heart-rate tracking, smart alarms, and snoring-relief functions. Selected mattresses also incorporate premium memory foam and anti-mite technology, addressing consumers who are specifically looking for a best memory foam mattress, anti-mite mattress, or a more advanced sleep setup for everyday use.

People researching a good mattress for back pain commonly look for proper support, pressure distribution, and a sleeping surface that follows the natural shape of the body. ZLEEP AI approaches this need through body-responsive support technologies that can detect areas of pressure and adjust support more intelligently. These features are designed to improve comfort and alignment, although persistent back pain or other medical concerns should still be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional. Snoring has also become an important consideration in the smart mattress category. Selected ZLEEP AI systems include adjustable positioning and snoring-relief functions designed to create a more supportive sleeping position, making the brand relevant to consumers searching for an anti-snoring mattress in the Philippines.

Anne herself highlighted the health-monitoring capability of ZLEEP AI during the event, noting that the system can help monitor heart rate. The feature reflects how the mattress category is evolving as artificial intelligence and connected technology become more integrated into everyday home products.

Rather than treating sleep as separate from wellness, Zion Group is bringing recovery, fitness, and rest into one connected lifestyle ecosystem. Anne’s partnership strengthens that direction and gives the brands a familiar voice as more Filipino consumers explore technology designed to support their health and routines at home.

Her message during the signing summed up the partnership in a way that goes beyond any single product. For Anne Curtis, investing in wellness comes with a clear perspective: health is priceless. With ZLEEP AI introducing artificial intelligence into the way people choose and experience a mattress, the brand is positioning itself as a premium contender for Filipinos looking for smarter sleep, better support, and a more personalized bedroom experience.

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August 27, 2026 - DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The international karate community turns its attention to Davao City today, August 27, as the 3rd Japan Karate Association of the Philippines (JKA Philippines) International Gasshuku and Tournament 2026 officially opens, bringing together karate masters, instructors, athletes, delegates, and representatives from different parts of the world.

The four-day gathering marks another historic milestone for JKA Philippines, strengthening the country's position as an emerging destination for major international traditional karate events and reinforcing the global spirit of discipline, respect, excellence, and friendship that defines the Japan Karate Association.

At the center of this international event is the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), which has extended its full support to the karate community by serving as host venue for the prestigious gathering.

The university's participation reflects the importance of sports, education, discipline, and international cooperation in developing young people and strengthening relationships among nations.

With foreign delegates, including dignitaries and distinguished karate masters, instructors, and lecturers from different parts of the globe and the Philippines  arriving in Davao City for the four-day event, security and safety measures have been heightened to help ensure the orderly movement and protection of participants, guests, officials, and spectators throughout the tournament.

The arrival of international delegations has created an atmosphere of excitement across the city as Davao prepares to welcome some of the most respected personalities in traditional Shotokan karate.

For the next four days, participants will take part in intensive Gasshuku training, technical instruction, lectures, demonstrations, and international competition, providing Filipino karate practitioners with a rare opportunity to train alongside and learn from highly experienced JKA masters and instructors.

The historic gathering, running from August 27 to 30, places Davao City at the center of the traditional Shotokan karate world as the Philippines welcomes leading personalities from the Japan Karate Association (JKA) Headquarters in Tokyo and representatives from different parts of the world.

Adding prestige to the international occasion, Consul General of Japan in Davao ONO Hirotaka is expected to attend the event.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go are likewise expected to grace the occasion, according to JKA Philippines Chief Executive Officer Emeliano P. Murillo.

The gathering is more than a tournament. It is a celebration of the philosophy and tradition of karate—where competition is matched by character, discipline, humility, respect, and the continuous pursuit of excellence.

DAVAO CITY IN THE INTERNATIONAL KARATE SPOTLIGHT

The hosting of the international gathering places Davao City and the Philippines in the spotlight of the global karate community, demonstrating the country's capability to welcome international sporting delegations while promoting sports tourism, cultural exchange, and international friendship.

As the competition officially begins, all eyes in the karate world are on Davao City.

For JKA Philippines, the 3rd International Gasshuku and Tournament represents not only another major sporting event, but a continuing mission to strengthen traditional karate in the Philippines and connect Filipino practitioners with the wider international JKA family.

The spirit of Karate-Do is alive in Davao City—and for the next four days, the Philippines becomes one of the centers of the international karate world.

The historic international gathering is made possible with the support of its key institutional partners and sponsors, including the Kadayawan Festival, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP). Their support reflects a shared commitment to sports development, international cooperation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of Davao City as a dynamic destination capable of hosting world-class sporting events.

Through their partnership with JKA Philippines, the 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku & Karate-Do Championship 2026 is strengthened not only as a major karate competition, but also as a celebration of culture, discipline, friendship, and Filipino hospitality.

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Want dinner in a hurry? This Asian Garlic Noodles recipe comes together in minutes yet packs incredible umami flavors. It features perfectly chewy pasta tossed in an irresistible savory, buttery garlic sauce you’d want to put on everything! It's the perfect side to your favorite protein! Ingredient notes How to make Asian garlic noodles How…

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Halabos na Hipon is a quick and easy seafood dinner that takes less than 20 minutes to make. It uses a secret ingredient that balances the savory minced garlic and rich butter, coating every piece of fresh shrimp. Grab an extra scoop of rice for this one! My mother's shrimp with oyster sauce and my ginataang…

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THE RECOVERY in the National Government’s (NG) spending on infrastructure and other capital outlays is not expected until the fourth quarter, with outlays programmed to remain below year-earlier levels through September before surging toward yearend.

The Development Budget Coordination Committee programmed P251.30 billion in infrastructure and other capital outlays for the third quarter, 2.2% lower than the P256.9 billion spent a year earlier. 

In the fourth quarter, infrastructure spending is then expected to jump by 49.4% to P328.44 billion, from P219.8 billion a year ago.

This would bring second-half infrastructure spending to P579.74 billion, up 21.6% from P476.7 billion in the same period last year.

The figures exclude infrastructure spending coursed through subsidies and equity to government-owned and -controlled corporations, as well as transfers to local government units.

Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes, a senior research fellow at the Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development, said the fourth-quarter infrastructure spending target was possible but ambitious and would require a significant acceleration in project implementation.

“A 49.4% year-on-year increase is not impossible because infrastructure spending is typically back-loaded toward the latter part of the year,” he told BusinessWorld via Facebook Messenger.

“However, the government would need to overcome the factors that have held spending back during the first three quarters: procurement delays, project implementation bottlenecks, right-of-way issues, and the more cautious pace of infrastructure releases following the scrutiny over flood control projects,” he added.

Latest data showed infrastructure and other capital outlays reached only P269.4 billion in the January-to-May period, down 42.9% from P471.5 billion a year earlier, amid tighter oversight in the aftermath of last year’s corruption scandal.

To meet the P351.8-billion first-half spending program, June outlays would need to reach P82.4 billion, still 44.6% lower than the P148.8 billion spent in the same month last year.

For the full year, NG infrastructure and other capital outlays are programmed at P931.54 billion, which is 15.1% lower than the P1.097 trillion spent in 2025.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said the government remains committed to accelerating infrastructure spending in the second half to support economic growth.

“We expect public construction to pick up as agencies ramp up project implementation and disbursements,” the DBM told BusinessWorld via Viber.

“We will continue to closely monitor spending performance and work with implementing agencies to address bottlenecks and help keep the infrastructure program on track,” it added.

Philippine Institute for Development Studies Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera said spending could rebound strongly in the fourth quarter as agencies catch up on delayed projects, speed up procurement and disbursements, and implement projects prepared earlier in the year.

However, he identified major risks to the outlook, namely, absorptive capacity, procurement bottlenecks, right-of-way issues, project readiness and tighter validation following the recent scrutiny of infrastructure spending.

“If these are not resolved early, simply pushing more spending into the fourth quarter could create implementation pressure,” Mr. Rivera told BusinessWorld.

Mr. Peña-Reyes said achieving the target would depend on project readiness, agencies’ execution capacity and weather and seasonal disruptions.

Projects that have already been awarded and have secured their right-of-way and technical requirements could generate spending relatively quickly, while projects entering procurement only in the fourth quarter are much less likely to contribute significantly, he said.

“A substantial fourth-quarter acceleration is likely, but the risk of undershooting the target is meaningful,” Mr. Peña-Reyes said.

“If the government falls materially short, it would reinforce the concern that the problem is not a lack of budgetary resources but weak implementation capacity and delays in converting appropriations into actual economic activity,” he added.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. Senior Adviser Jonathan L. Ravelas also described the spending target as ambitious but achievable if the government accelerates project implementation and clears spending bottlenecks.

He said delays in procurement, project readiness and implementation could slow disbursements.

“The real challenge is not just spending more in the fourth quarter, but spending efficiently and translating that spending into stronger economic growth,” Mr. Ravelas told BusinessWorld via Viber.

Mr. Peña-Reyes also said the concentration of spending  toward yearend raises the risk that agencies could prioritize faster disbursements over spending quality.

This raises risks such as rushed procurement, weaker project selection, problems in construction quality, errors and leakages, and additional carryovers into 2027.

“The problem arises when the acceleration is too large relative to implementation capacity. It would be helpful to distinguish between healthy catch-up spending and forced catch-up spending,” Mr. Peña-Reyes said.

Healthy catch-up would involve payments for properly procured projects already progressing, rather than rushing new projects simply to meet the annual target, he added.

“It is better to miss part of the fourth-quarter disbursement target than to meet it through low-quality, poorly prepared or rushed infrastructure projects,” he said.

The public should monitor physical accomplishment, project completion rates and procurement quality alongside the headline disbursement figure, Mr. Peña-Reyes added.

THE GOVERNMENT is waiting for more favorable market conditions before proceeding with a retail Treasury bond (RTB) offering this year, amid elevated interest rates and tensions in the Middle East.

National Treasurer Sharon P. Almanza told reporters on Monday that the government is still looking to issue RTBs within the year.

“There will always be a market for RTBs, particularly with maturities coming due this year. The domestic market remains liquid, although the market sentiment is still affected by geopolitical tension in the Middle East as well as developments in the global financial market particularly the US Treasury,” she said in a follow up Viber message.

The government’s last RTB offering was in August 2025 when it raised P507.16 billion from five-year notes.

Ms. Almanza also told BusinessWorld on Monday that they aim to raise less than the amount generated from last year’s issuance.

She noted the planned offering will be made available again on GCash via the GBonds feature.

Ms. Almanza said there will also be a bond exchange program similar to last year, but noted that the new money raised from the coming issuance will likely be smaller.

Analysts said the market environment remains supportive for an RTB issuance this year amid easing inflation, strong liquidity, and investors looking to lock in yields before rates move lower.

“The market environment for a potential RTB issuance later this year remains broadly supportive, particularly if inflation expectations continue to stabilize and if monetary policy becomes less restrictive,” Union Bank of the Philippines, Inc. Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said in a Viber message.

“An RTB issuance would likely benefit from easing domestic interest rates, ample system liquidity, and strong demand from retail investors seeking relatively safe and predictable returns,” he added.

Mr. Asuncion said investor preference has leaned more towards shorter tenors amid interest rate and inflation uncertainty, suggesting that a three- to five-year RTB could attract strong demand while helping the government manage its funding requirements efficiently.

Reyes Tacandong & Co. Senior Adviser Jonathan L. Ravelas said in a Viber message that the five-year tenor could be the sweet spot, but noted that “the geopolitical climate could shift anytime.”

Mr. Asuncion added that market sentiment will continue to be guided by market volatility, inflation developments, policy expectations, and global interest rate movements.

“The government is expected to remain opportunistic and launch the offering when financing conditions are most favorable,” he added.

Meanwhile, a trader said in a text message that the government could issue the RTB in September, when there are several scheduled maturities.

GLOBAL ISSUANCE
On next year’s planned issuance, Ms. Almanza said the government remains open to global bond issuances depending on market conditions.

“Of course, we are looking at other currencies, but depending on the market, depending on the conditions, it can be euro, yen, or the usual US dollar,” she told reporters.

Ms. Almanza said the government has $5-billion eligible government bonds that can be included in JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM).

The Philippines is scheduled to enter the GBI-EM on Jan. 29, 2027. The index will include Philippine peso-denominated government bonds issued since 2023 with tenors of up to 20 years.

THE National Government’s proposed tax reforms, if enacted, risk further delaying the country’s fiscal consolidation, especially given its widening budget deficit and record debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio, Moody’s Ratings said.

Moody’s Ratings Assistant Vice-President for Ratings Young Kim said that net gain from the measures under the Promoting Growth, Revenue, and Equity towards Socio-economic Sustainability (ProGRESS) bill will likely prove marginal.

“The government’s proposed ProGRESS package would raise the personal income tax exemption threshold and ease the burden on micro and small enterprises, offset by higher excises on sweetened beverages, tobacco and alcohol, a new plastics levy, and a 15% minimum tax on large multinationals,” Mr. Kim told BusinessWorld in an e-mailed response to questions.

“While this could bring additional offsetting revenue, it also introduces some uncertainty, as the net gain may prove smaller and the package still needs to pass Congress as proposed,” he added.

The Department of Finance (DoF) is proposing the so-called ProGRESS bill, a comprehensive tax reform package involving a set of tax breaks, new or updated levies on sin products and excise tax, as well as a wealth tax, among others.

Under the proposed bill, the DoF is pushing for new or higher taxes on sweetened beverages, e-cigarettes, flexible plastic products, luxury vehicles, and private aircraft.

This package alone is projected to generate an average revenue of P129.68 billion annually from 2027 to 2030.

It was designed to offset the estimated P81.73-billion annual losses from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s call to raise the threshold for income tax exemptions to P350,000 from P250,000 for low- and middle-income earners and the minimum corporation income tax exemption for micro and small enterprises.

Although the proposed tax relief measures are still pending in Congress, Mr. Kim warned that they could further undermine the country’s already fragile fiscal position.

“The tax relief measures — if enacted without offsetting revenue measures, though it is still too early to assess the full fiscal impact — would erode revenue and further delay the government’s fiscal consolidation,” he said.

In mid-2022, the Marcos administration unveiled the Medium-Term Fiscal Framework 2022-2028, where it targeted an economic growth of 6.5%-8%, a debt-to-GDP ratio of 51.1% and fiscal deficit-to-GDP ratio of 3% by end-2028.

However, Mr. Kim noted that the government’s fiscal consolidation path has been under strain amid the economy’s tepid growth and ballooning debt stock.

“Weaker near-term growth adds to this pressure, as softer economic activity weighs on revenue buoyancy and, in turn, the pace of deficit reduction,” he said.

The country saw its worst economic performance since the pandemic as it grew by 2.3% in the second quarter amid a major investment slump and subdued household consumption.

This was the slowest pace recorded since the 3.8% contraction in the first quarter of 2021, and since the 1.8% growth in the fourth quarter of 2009 outside the pandemic.

“Against this backdrop, the debt-to-GDP, which rose materially during the pandemic, has yet to meaningfully reverse, while debt affordability is weakening, interest payments as a share of revenue are rising as cheaper pandemic-era debt is refinanced at today’s higher yields,” Mr. Kim said.

“Sustained revenue erosion without offsets would therefore weigh on fiscal strength,” he added.

In the second quarter of 2026, the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio rose to 66% from 65.2% in the first quarter. This was the highest ratio in over two decades or since the 71.6% seen at end-2004.

This came as its debt stock swelled to an all-time high of P19.07 trillion at end-June, inching up by 2.8% from P18.55 trillion as of end-May. Year on year, it also rose by 10.41%.

Based on the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2029 Midterm Update released in May, the government expects the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio to settle between 60% and 63% this year. By next year, it could fall to 59%-62% before declining further to 58%-61% by 2028.

Meanwhile, the government’s debt is expected to hit P19.77 trillion by yearend and further increase to a record P21.48 trillion by end next year due to higher principal repayments and continued budget deficit, according to the 2027 Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing.

For Mr. Kim, the risks tied to the ProGRESS bill will hinge on whether the government can set measures that would compensate for foregone revenues and its capacity to boost revenue mobilization and spending efficiency. 

“That said, the near-term 2026 measures appear broadly revenue-neutral, reflecting spending reprioritization and a measured approach to support despite weak growth,” he said.

“Ultimately, the key risk is the credibility of the medium-term consolidation path, which will depend on offsetting the proposed tax exemptions, further revenue mobilization and spending efficiency through reforms and digitalization, and management of growing spending pressures tied to physical climate risks,” he added.

As of mid-August, about 40 bills related to the ProGRESS package have been filed under the House of Representatives, with only two measures hurdling committee level, while seven were filed in the Senate.

THE Philippines’ balance of payments (BoP) position swung to a deficit for the first time in three months in July, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

According to central bank data released late on Wednesday, the country’s BoP position stood at a $1.47-billion deficit in July, a reversal from the $3.403-billion surplus in June.

Year on year, the BoP gap ballooned from $167 million.

This was the first time since April that the monthly BoP position stood at a deficit.

“The overall balance of payments, which captures the transactions of the country with the rest of the world, recorded a $1.5-billion deficit in July 2026,” the BSP said in a statement.

BoP refers to the country’s economic transactions with other nations. A deficit shows that the country spent more than it received, while a surplus indicates more funds entered into the country.

“The July BoP deficit reflected the country’s persistent trade gap, portfolio investment outflows, and external debt-related payments, particularly after June benefited from sizeable foreign borrowing inflows,” Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said in a Viber message.

Jonathan L. Ravelas, senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co., attributed the month-on-month reversal to higher foreign exchange outflows, including external debt payments and stronger dollar demand for imports.

“While the year-on-year deterioration looks significant, monthly BoP figures are often influenced by the timing of large transactions and should not be viewed in isolation,” he added via Viber.

In the seven months to July, the country’s deficit stood at $5.347 billion, narrower than the $5.756-billion gap in the comparable year-ago period.

“The year-to-date BoP position reflected the continued trade-in-goods deficit and net outflows from foreign portfolio investments,” the central bank said.

“These were partly offset by the sustained net inflows from personal remittances of overseas Filipinos (OFs), foreign borrowings by the NG (National Government), trade in services, and foreign direct investment,” it added.

The Philippines’ trade-in-goods balance, or the difference between the values of exports and imports, ballooned to a $30.81-billion gap as of end-June from $24.48 billion a year ago.

UnionBank’s Mr. Asuncion said the narrower year-to-date deficit shows the Philippines’ external position remained manageable.

“Moving forward, developments in global financial markets, trade flows, remittances, tourism receipts, and foreign investments will be key determinants of the BoP outlook,” he added.

On the other hand, Mr. Ravelas noted that the country has to keep a healthy balance between its foreign exchange earnings and import needs to shield its external position against persistent global risks.

“The Philippines continues to benefit from strong structural dollar inflows, but maintaining a healthy balance between foreign exchange earnings and import requirements will be crucial to keeping the external position stable amid ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties,” he said.

The central bank has noted that trade imbalances and tighter financial conditions will continue to strain the country’s external position until next year.

It projects the BoP deficit to widen to $10.7 billion or -2.1% of gross domestic product (GDP) by yearend from $5.7 billion or -1.2% of GDP in 2025.

18-MONTH LOW GIR
Meanwhile, the central bank’s dollar reserves amounted to $103.317 billion as of July, down nearly 2% from the $105.418 billion logged the prior year, revised data showed.

This was the lowest gross international reserves (GIR) it held in 18 months or since the $103.271 billion logged in January 2025.

It was likewise the fifth straight month that the GIR level slipped on an annual basis.

Month on month, the BSP’s dollar reserves fell by 1.36% from $104.745 billion.

The lower reserves were largely due to the central bank’s net foreign exchange operations, according to the BSP, as the weak peso during the period required its intervention.

As of end-July, the local unit stood at P61.432 versus the greenback, about 7.2% or P4.126 weaker than P57.306 in the same period last year, according to BSP data.

The central bank also said its GIR fell after the National Government withdrew from its foreign currency accounts with the BSP to pay its external debts, with its total withdrawals exceeding its deposits.

However, the drags were partly tempered by “income from the BSP’s investments abroad and upward valuation adjustments in the BSP’s gold holdings due to the increase in the price of gold in the international market.”

Dollar reserves are the central bank’s foreign assets held mostly as investments in foreign-issued securities, foreign exchange and monetary gold, among others.

These are supplemented by claims to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the form of reserve position in the fund and special drawing rights (SDRs).

The Philippines’ reserve position in the IMF stood at $725.2 million as of July, reflecting a 0.52% year on year dip from $729 million.

Meanwhile, the BSP’s gold holdings also climbed to a two-month high of $17.49 billion, jumping by 26.89% from $13.783 billion a year earlier.

Its SDRs — or the amount the Philippines can tap from the IMF’s reserve currency basket — also increased by 1.22% to $3.937 billion from $3.89 billion.

In the seven-month period, the BSP’s securities slipped by 7.95% to $67.157 billion from $72.958 billion a year ago. This refers to highly liquid and marketable debt securities, excluding investments under the Asian Bond Fund (ABF) and Bank for International Settlements Investment Pool (BISIP).

However, the central bank’s foreign currency and deposits plunged by about 75% to $1.879 billion during the period from $7.516 billion last year.

On the other hand, the BSP’s other reserve assets nearly doubled (85.4%) to $12.129 billion as of July from the $6.542 billion a year ago. These include overnight investment — repurchase agreement pool, due from or to brokers, accrued interest receivables, and investments under ABF and BISIP.

At end-July, the country’s GIR level translated to 6.7 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income, more than double the three-month standard.

It could also cover about 3.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity.

The BSP sees its foreign reserves shrinking to $104 billion this year from the $110.8 billion it held in 2025.

With severe flooding and high tides disrupting their daily lives and rendering roads impassable, families find it difficult to leave their homes and secure basic necessities. Through OMF and its partners in disaster response such as Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), Meralco business centers, Meralco’s animal welfare initiative CATropa, and local governments, the initiative reached 2,500 affected families across the municipalities of San Miguel, Balagtas, Calumpit, and Hagonoy in Bulacan, as well as Bacoor City and Tanza in Cavite, and San Mateo in Rizal. Distribution efforts will continue over the coming days.

Partnering with the Balagtas municipal government led by Mayor Andy “Andrews” Santiago, OMF and the Meralco Balagtas Business Center waded through deep waters aggravated by high tide to deliver food packs directly to the doorsteps of residents stranded in Barangay San Juan.

“Maraming salamat po sa One Meralco Foundation sa inyong ipinagkaloob na relief goods para sa ating mga kababayan,” Mayor Santiago said. “Malaking tulong po ito sa ating mga pamilyang nangangailangan. Maraming salamat po sa inyong malasakit at pakikiisa.”

In Hagonoy, Bulacan, a joint relief effort was made possible through a resident-led initiative, spearheaded by community coordinator Gelvien Montalla who reached out to OMF online to seek help for his community. OMF’s swift response brought immediate relief to families whose livelihoods were disrupted by the deep floods. Lilibeth Roberto, a single mother caring for her child with a disability, shared how the flooding halted the operations of her small eatery. “Malaking bagay [itong relief] dahil wala akong kabuhayan ngayon,” said Roberto.

Relief operations also helped evacuation sites and frontline responders. In Bacoor City, Cavite, OMF and the Meralco Bacoor Business Center provided relief packs to evacuated families from Barangays Aniban 1, Aniban 2, and Ligas 1, as well as municipal traffic enforcers whose own homes were flood-submerged. Additional food supplies were also turned over to Bacoor City Mayor Strike B. Revilla for distribution across other affected barangays. Meanwhile, OMF and Meralco Rosario Business Center also worked with the local government of Tanza, Cavite, led by Mayor Archangelo Matro, to help distribute relief packs to affected residents.

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OMF also worked with the local government of Calumpit, with Vice-Mayor Zacarias “Doc Zar” Candelaria joining the efforts with the Meralco Malolos Business Center. In Barangay Balungao in Calumpit, OMF, with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and CATropa, also provided relief packs with rice for families and supplies for pets, with volunteers wading through floods to reach out to those in need.

MGEN volunteers from its MTerra Solar and MGEN Renewables Bulacan Solar also distributed relief packs to disaster-hit residents in San Miguel, Bulacan. In Marikina City, residents of Brgy. Guinayang also received relief packs from OMF and Meralco Marikina Business Center.

The initiative is part of OMF’s broader disaster response efforts to deliver immediate relief to affected communities.

“In times of disaster, our responsibility to communities extends far beyond restoring physical light — it is about restoring hope. As heavy rains and the Habagat disrupt lives across the nation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to stand by our fellow Filipinos when they need us most,” OMF President Jeffrey Tarayao said.

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• ‘The Boy From Haeundae Beach’ (2022) – Acclaimed debut double LP functioning as a genre-blending musical mixtape
• ‘Yong-Gwanglo’ Parts 1 & 2 (2024) – Expansive double album where “Yong-Gwanglo” means “melting pot” in Korean

• Zandari Festival – Seoul, South Korea (6 September 2026)
• Nonsan World Music Festival – South Korea (5 September 2026)

Manila, Philippines – Following the chart-topping breakthrough of “Palayo sa Mundo,” which has recently crossed 70 million streams on Spotify alone, Filipino singer-songwriter Jolianne commences her new era in music with the release of “Daanan,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Penned by Jolianne, “Daanan” conveys the experience of finding comfort in another person when you least expect it. Rather than portraying love as something immediate and perfectly formed, the song approaches it as a process that is built through small acts of vulnerability, familiarity, and right timing.

 “Daanan is about falling in love for the first time and about having someone gently guide you through your firsts and learning, little by little, to let someone into your life,” the Cebu-born pop artist explains. “It’s about choosing to grow into love instead of rushing toward it and discovering yourself through the eyes of someone who sees you completely.”

The guitar-pop ballad is also about treating love as something “you slowly nurture and choose every day.” Jolianne adds, “Sometimes, you don’t know exactly where the road will lead—you just know that you want to keep walking, hand in hand with someone, until you find out together.” 

For Jolianne, writing in Filipino meant deliberately stepping outside of her comfort zone. My comfort languages as a writer are English and Bisaya, so writing in Filipino felt like entering an entirely new space. It made me feel like a beginner all over again. Daanan challenged me to stretch beyond what I already knew, and I’m happy that I allowed myself to be a beginner again.”

That sense of discovery extends to the song’s creation. Jolianne initially recorded the melody as a voice note without chords or a beat, an unconventional starting point for her usual songwriting process. Produced by Luke April, the song gradually expands from a sparse, intimate opening into a fuller orchestral arrangement, mirroring its movement from uncertainty to surrender.

The accompanying music video, directed by Raliug and created with Lunchbox, brings the song’s central metaphor to life through dance. Jolianne plays someone learning to dance from an instructor she develops a crush on, with moments of awkwardness and hesitation reflecting the vulnerability of learning to let another person in.

“I really liked the idea of using dance because there’s something inherently vulnerable about letting another person teach you,” reveals Jolianne. “You have to be willing to look a little silly, make mistakes, and trust that they’ll catch you when you get the steps wrong. That became a visual metaphor for the love I’m talking about in the song: you don’t know what you’re doing at first, but you slowly become more comfortable with each other and learn the rhythm together.”Jolianne’s “Daanan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video on Jolianne’s official YouTube channel, which premieres on Aug 14, 2026 at 6:00 P.M.

Angeline’s newest talk show on iWant delves in bringing genuine connections through her relatable experiences and welcoming personality, with its first two episodes featuring big names in the industry as special guests with the Unkabogable Superstar Vice Ganda, and the country’s Prince of Pop Erik Santos.For its debut episode, Angeline shares the floor with Vice to discuss his humble beginnings to becoming widely regarded as one of the country’s top faces in showbiz. She then sits down with Erik in the next episode as they share their love for music, their hardships in becoming OPM’s powerhouse singers, and relive their friendship through the years.The new talk show also coincides with Angeline Quinto’s 15th anniversary in showbiz, starting her journey through the reality-singing competition “Star Power” to cementing her name in OPM as the Power Diva.

Join in the light-hearted talks and entertaining performances with your favorite stars in “The Angeline Quinto Show,” premiering its first episode on August 27, followed by its second on September 24 (Thursday), only on iWant.

Subscribe to iWant subscription plans starting at P35 per month in the Philippines and USD 4.99 per month in the United States* (*promo price until October 31, 2026) and for the rest of the world to have early access to the episodes on their premiere dates.

Enjoy all the feels you want, only on iWant, the largest library of Filipino feels. Download the app via Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Timezone Philippines has officially named XONARA — the seven-member girl group taking over your playlists under 1Z Entertainment — as its newest brand ambassadors. 

And this isn’t a wave-at-the-camera, sign-the-banner kind of deal. The one-year partnership comes loaded: an exclusive buy 250, get 500 credit bonus on the Timezone Fun App with the code XONARA, and official Timezone x XONARA photocards dropping August 25.

Photocards. In an arcade. Someone finally understood the assignment.

If you’ve ever traded a photocard outside a concert venue or queued for a cup sleeve event, you already know why this hits different. Timezone is bringing the collect-everything, post-everything energy of P-pop fandom into the same neon-lit floors where half the country learned to lose gracefully at air hockey. 

“At Timezone, we’re always looking for new ways to bring people together through fun and create memorable experiences for our guests,” said Raffy Prats Jr., General Manager of Timezone Philippines. “XONARA’s vibrant energy, strong connection with young audiences and authentic love for Timezone make them a natural fit for our brand. Together, we’re creating exciting moments that celebrate friendship, community and play while giving fans new ways to connect with the people and passions they love.”

Social content, merch, in-store activations — all rolling out over the year under #TimeXONARA. They were Timezone kids first

Here’s the plot twist that isn’t one: before Eurekah, Tin, Dominique, Ella, Namie, Lei and Megumi were 1Z Entertainment’s first girl group — before “Tabi,” before their brand-new second single “Pula” dropped on last week — they were the kids swiping powercards into the machines like the rest of us.

“We’re honestly so happy and grateful,” Ella said. “Timezone is a place that so many of us grew up going to, so becoming one of its brand ambassadors feels really surreal. It’s exciting to represent a brand that’s all about having fun, making memories, and bringing people together. We hope everyone can create new memories with us at Timezone too.”

“It’s such an honor. We never imagined that one day we’d be working with a brand we genuinely enjoyed growing up. It feels like a full-circle moment, and we’re really thankful to Timezone for trusting XONARA,” Namie added. 

Ella fought the good fight against the claw machine — and occasionally won. “I’d spend so much time trying to win a plushie, and whenever I finally got one, I’d feel so proud. Timezone was one of those places where every visit felt special because it wasn’t just about the games, it was about spending time with family and friends.”

Namie, meanwhile, was the karaoke booth mainstay. 

“I’m naturally competitive. I remember challenging my friends to see who could get the highest score. Even if I lost, we’d all end up laughing, and those are the moments I remember most,” Namie shared. 

Behind the partnership

Timezone Philippines is running the show — venue experience, digital rollout, activations, Fun App mechanics, merch — while 1Z Entertainment brings the girls, the content and the appearances. 

The brand itself has been in the business of engineered joy since 1978, when it started in Perth, Australia; today it runs over 320 venues across seven countries, including more than 50 in the Philippines through its joint venture between The Entertainment and Education Group (TEEG) and Ayala Land, Inc.

“P-pop fandom has always been participatory. Fans don’t just listen, they show up, they collect, they bring their friends. Timezone gives that energy. We’re excited for XONARA to meet fans in a space built for exactly that kind of shared fun,” John Paulo “Pablo” Nanse, 1Z Entertainment President, said. 

Since its premiere, the series has generated buzz online with its intriguing and mysterious storyline and impressive performances from its cast.In the latest episode, Mara (Yassi Pressman) revealed more of Ben’s (Jericho Rosales) dark secrets to Anna (Janine Gutierrez), including his role in covering up the death of his father. She also said she believed Regina (Charlie Dizon) was right in suspecting that Ben was responsible for the deaths of their father and Regina’s husband.With Ben’s secrets now exposed, viewers are left wondering what Anna will do next and whether she can still believe and trust her husband after learning the truth about him.

Now that the bodies of his alleged victims are seemingly being uncovered, will Ben still be able to keep the truth hidden?

Catch the final two episodes of “The Loyalty Game” this Friday (Aug. 14), exclusively on Prime Video.

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HYDROPOWER DEVELOPERS are already feeling the effects of El Niño as prolonged dry spells lower reservoir levels, disrupting operations and critical maintenance activities.

Eric Y. Roxas, president of Repower Energy Development Corp. (REDC), said El Niño reduces the company’s hydropower plant efficiency to about 35% to 40%.

“During this period, the company takes advantage of the lower water volume to do our maintenance and repairs of our weirs, waterways infrastructure, dredging activities, and preventive maintenance activities,” Mr. Roxas told BusinessWorld.

In June, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration announced the onset of El Niño, which is widely expected to bring droughts to parts of the country. It is expected to escalate into a “Super El Niño” by late 2026 and persist until 2027.

Since hydropower facilities depend on reservoir and river levels, drier-than-normal conditions could prompt plants to run at partial capacity and reduce power generation output.

As of December 2025, hydropower accounted for about 12% of the country’s total installed power generation capacity, based on data from the Department of Energy.

This share remains vulnerable to weather-driven disruptions, particularly during El Niño, which is already affecting the operations of hydropower plants.

Mr. Roxas said REDC undertakes maintenance activities to ensure the company will take full advantage of increased water volume during the rainy season.

“The El Niño or dry season on the one hand becomes advantageous to us on the construction of our projects in development, with minimal delays due to weather,” he said.

REDC operates nine run-of-river hydropower plants across Luzon and Mindanao, totaling around 35 megawatts (MW), with six projects currently in development.

Dennis Michael P. Gonzales, senior vice-president of power producer First Gen Corp., said the impact of El Niño on the hydropower sector is “quite substantial,” as observed in one of their facilities.

He said the impact has reached a critical point for its Pantabangan hydropower facility in Nueva Ecija, with power generation output dropping from its original 120 MW to just 20 MW as of the end of July.

“Very close to completely shutting down the plant entirely,” Mr. Gonzales told BusinessWorld.

For context, he explained that every one-meter drop in the reservoir results in about a 3-MW decrease in power output.

“The low elevation reached this year is of huge concern as the reservoir is expected to recharge during the third quarter of the year,” Mr. Gonzales said.

“Failure to recharge sufficiently will lead to a low reservoir elevation for the next cropping season thus affecting the area that can be supported by irrigation as well as low power output due to low elevation as lower water volume releases.”

The Pantabangan hydroelectric plant is a multi-purpose hydro complex that also supplies irrigation water for the vast rice fields of Central Luzon.

While the plant saw higher-than-usual generation during the first half of the year, this was largely due to the previous year’s “generous inflows” being used to provide increased irrigation support for local farmlands. However, this heavy reliance on stored water has led to a “substantial drawdown” of the reservoir.

Unlike run-of-river plants where the impact of drought is instantaneous, large multi-purpose reservoirs like Pantabangan experience “a lag in impact,” Mr. Gonzales said.

“Even if the El Niño is encountered this year, the effect will be more felt next year,” he said.

The company official said the Luzon and Mindanao grids have significant hydropower capacity, accounting for 2,500 MW and 1,200 MW, respectively.

“Given its size, an El Niño phenomenon may trigger yellow alerts. In a way, we already felt this in June and July of this year when the hydropower plants experienced derating due to low water inflows,” Mr. Gonzales said.

A yellow alert is issued when the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement.

In Mindanao, state-run National Power Corp. (NPC) is working to complete the maintenance program for the Agus and Pulangi hydroelectric power plants to return to full operations by Aug. 20.

The Agus-Pulangi hydropower complex, which straddles the provinces of Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and Bukidnon, is designed to generate 982 MW of electricity through seven run-of-river hydropower plants.

However, only about 700 MW of the facility’s capacity is currently operational due to aging infrastructure.

“Water has many competing uses, and with the possibility of a Super El Niño, energy requirements must always be balanced against water security and the needs of the communities,” NPC President and Chief Executive Officer Jericho Jonas B. Nograles said at a briefing last week.

THE BANGKO SENTRAL ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) tightening cycle may be over as the country’s sluggish growth will likely soften demand-driven inflation, with rate cuts on the table for mid-2027, Standard Chartered Bank said.   

Jonathan Koh, Standard Chartered’s senior economist and foreign exchange (FX) analyst for Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), said the BSP may adopt a “wait-and-see” approach while assessing the movements of oil prices and the peso-dollar exchange rate.

“(B)ecause growth is soft, I think that the demand inflation is probably going to be softer. And from that perspective, I think that the BSP can potentially actually wait and see,” Mr. Koh told a press briefing on Friday.

“So, I took my August hike call off the table last week. I do recognize it’s going to be a close call. I think that the BSP is probably going to be watching oil prices as well as peso performance in the lead-up to the meeting,” he added.

Mr. Koh said this month’s policy meeting could be a close call between a hold and a rate hike, particularly if renewed price pressures worsen the inflation outlook.

“However, one month of softer inflation does not yet establish a sustained disinflationary trend, particularly as both measures remain above BSP’s target range. We therefore expect a close decision between a hike and a pause,” Mr. Koh and Standard Chartered Chief Economist and Head of FX for ASEAN and South Asia Edward Lee said in a report.

Standard Chartered’s latest policy call came after the dismal second-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth prompted the bank to slash its full-year forecast to 3.5% from 4% for 2026.

In the second quarter, GDP growth slowed to a post-pandemic low of 2.3%. Excluding the pandemic, it was the slowest growth in over 16 years.

The slowdown was largely driven by the lingering effects of last year’s flood control graft scandal on public construction and investments as well as subdued consumer spending as the Middle East war spiked prices.

Still, Standard Chartered is projecting a second-half recovery for the Philippines, although Mr. Koh said risks remain from volatile oil prices, potentially high food prices due to El Niño, and the government’s budget plan.

“As long as we don’t see that, I do think that the Philippine economy is probably going to recover in the second half of the year. Of course, as I noted, I think some part of it is going to be dependent on whether or not the government will be able to disperse the budget,” Mr. Koh said.

Standard Chartered likewise sees inflation averaging 5.9%, slower than its initial forecast of 6.5% amid moderating price pressures. Mr. Koh said the headline print likely peaked in the second quarter when it averaged 6.8%, well above the BSP’s 3% target.

However, inflation eased for a third consecutive month to 6.2% in July, bringing the year-to-date clip to 5%.

For Mr. Koh, the BSP could start easing next year, with a 25-basis-point (bp) cut each in the second and third quarters.

“So, in terms of the BSP itself, at the moment, my call, which I think is probably non-consensus, is I don’t expect the BSP to hike in August or for the rest of the year, and I’m actually looking for rate cuts in 2027,” he said.

Since it began tightening in April, the central bank has delivered 50 bps in rate hikes, raising the benchmark policy rate to about a one-year-high of 4.75%.

Last week, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. said their inflation fight is still on as they have yet to see a sustained disinflation trend, with unpredictable price shocks requiring their vigilance.

However, he added that the weak economic growth in the second quarter means they can be less aggressive in curbing inflation, especially as expectations prove relatively well-anchored.

The central bank has repeatedly signaled its commitment to steering inflation back to its target using all necessary monetary policy actions.

Its latest projections show inflation could breach its target for three straight years at 6.4% this year, 4.5% in 2027, and 3.1% in 2028.

PESO
Meanwhile, Mr. Koh expects the peso to range between P61 and P62 per dollar until yearend, with a hold by the US Federal Reserve likely to support the peso.

“Now, our view is no Fed hike,” he said. “And if, let’s say, our view really pans out, that means that your dollar should actually go lower. So, that could potentially help in terms of dollar peso moving slightly lower towards the end of the year as well.”

At its latest policy review in July, the Fed left its benchmark rates unchanged for a fifth straight meeting at the 3.5%-3.75% range.

Meanwhile, the peso averaged over P60 versus the greenback as of July from the P58- to P59-a-dollar level prewar.

It sank by 9.7 centavos to close at a new all-time low of P61.847 against the greenback on July 24, breaking its previous record of P61.75 on July 23, Bankers Association of the Philippines data showed.

As of end-July, the local unit stood at P61.432 versus the greenback, about 7.2% or P4.126 weaker than P57.306 in the same period last year, according to central bank data.

For the entire duration of the festival, Ayala Malls will be showcasing the seven original full-length films and twenty student-made shorts in six malls across Metro Manila. The malls hosting the 2026 CinePanalo will be Market! Market! in Taguig, TriNoma in Quezon City, Fairview Terraces in Quezon City, Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig, Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque, and Ayala Malls Circuit in Makati.

Puregold and Ayala Malls shared that each cinema was strategically selected to ensure the widest possible reach for CinePanalo. Locations in Taguig and Makati were chosen for their vibrant, culture-driven communities that have long championed local artistry and independent cinema. Pasig, meanwhile, reflects a growing and diverse base of cinema-goers from all walks of life — mirroring the breadth of Filipino stories showcased at CinePanalo. The Parañaque’s location lies right at the heart of a bustling mixed-use development with an emphasis on entertainment and cultural events. Completing the circuit are two cinemas in Quezon City, selected for their deep-rooted creative communities and direct access to student, youth, and family audiences, further strengthening CinePanalo’s connection to the next generation of Filipino storytellers.

“Partnering with Ayala Malls helps bring the 2026 CinePanalo to as many Filipinos as possible,” says Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “As the festival continues to grow, we truly value partnerships like this that stand by the cause of unleashing Filipino cinema’s untapped potential.”

For Ayala Malls, the choice to partner with Puregold CinePanalo was easy, especially considering the success of the first two editions of the festival.

“CinePanalo’s advocacy greatly aligns with Ayala Malls’ vision and values. At its core, CinePanalo puts the Filipino audience first — highlighting stories that reflect their lives, dreams, and everyday victories,” said Yvette Roldan, Head of Ayala Malls’ Ancillary Business. “This resonates with our commitment to meaningful and culturally-relevant experiences at Ayala Malls Cinemas.”

Roldan believes that CinePanalo’s support for student and regional filmmakers reflects a spirit of succeeding together, fostering collaboration and inclusivity across the film community. It’s this bold approach to storytelling and genre freedom that Roldan believes reflects Puregold and Ayala Malls’ shared drive to innovate and encourage fresh perspectives and creative risk-taking.

The Puregold CinePanalo has thus far produced a number of films that have gone on to showcase and even compete in film festivals across the world, from other Asian countries to Europe and Africa. The partnership with Ayala Malls, Puregold says, is an opportunity to allow more Filipinos to witness the kind of world-class talent that the CinePanalo has proven to produce.

“As we celebrate the wins of our CinePanalo alums in film festivals across the globe, we are, of course, always brought back to the purpose of the CinePanalo, which is to tell true, Filipino stories. That’s why it is important for us at Puregold that these stories reach the same people who inspire them,” says Ms. Hayagan-Piedad. “Working with Ayala Malls allows the festival to reach more audiences, giving these films the platform they deserve while carrying the panalo spirit reflected in each story.”

Stay updated and learn more about the Puregold CinePanalo; follow the official festival Facebook page at facebook.com/puregoldcinepanalo.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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Cash remittances from Filipinos abroad grew by its slowest pace in over four years in June even as the monthly level stood at a six-month high, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) sent home a total of $3.039 billion in cash remittances in June, rising by 1.7% from $2.987 billion a year ago.

This was the highest monthly remittance inflows since December last year, when it reached $3.522 billion.

However, the 1.7% growth was the weakest annual growth in four years and four months or since the 1.3% in February 2022.

“Cash remittances reached $3.04 billion in June 2026, the highest monthly cash remittance level recorded in the first half of 2026,” the central bank said in a statement on Monday.

This brought the first-half cash remittances to $17.149 billion, up by 2.4% from $16.753 billion.

Meanwhile, personal remittances amounted to $3.388 billion in June, up 1.8% from $3.329 billion the prior year.

“Seasonally adjusted personal remittances, which include cash sent through banks and informal channels as well as remittances in kind, likewise increased in June 2026,” the BSP said.

As of June, personal remittances went up by 2.4% to $19.123 billion from $18.672 billion last year.

“The United States remained the top source of inflows, followed by Singapore and Saudi Arabia, based on reported remittance transactions by origin,” the central bank said.

The BSP sees cash remittances rising by an annual 2.7% to $36.6 billion this year, slower than the 3.3% to $35.6 billion in 2025.

Global Tax Policy Expert | Chief Tax Advisor, Asian Consulting Group (ACGlobal)

The Philippines is competing for global capital at a time when investors are rethinking supply chains, tax structures, energy security and geopolitical risk. Our response cannot simply be to offer more incentives.

We must offer something more valuable: credible institutions, competitive policies and a government that works.

As our Philippine Investment Mission heads to South Korea and Japan this quarter, followed by Canada, the United States and Europe in the fourth quarter, we should be clear about what we are really selling to the world.

Not just tax incentives. Not just a young workforce. Not just strategic location.

We should be selling a reforming Philippines built around three measurable outcomes:

MORE PAY. MORE INVESTMENTS. BETTER GOVERNMENT.

There is reason for optimism. The Board of Investments approved about P462 billion in projects in the first half of 2026, while PEZA approved roughly P141 billion in new and expansion projects during the same period. CREATE MORE and the new Strategic Investment Priority Plan have further strengthened our investment proposition.

Through Asian Consulting Group (ACGlobal)’s Philippine Investment Mission and the global launch of WHY INVEST IN THE PHILIPPINES? CREATE MORE Edition, we continue collaborating with the BOI, PEZA, Philippine Trade and Investment Centers and Philippine embassies abroad through business forums, CEO briefings, policy discussions, investor aftercare and tax consultations.

But incentives may get investors interested. Institutions make them stay.

The feedback we hear from investors should therefore become part of a measurable reform program toward 2028.

First, increase Filipino take-home pay.

The proposed increase in the personal income tax exemption threshold from P250,000 is welcome, but it should be the beginning rather than the end of reform.

I have proposed a roadmap toward P400,000, then P800,000 and ultimately P1 million in tax-free income, with deeper relief tied to measurable improvements in revenue collection.

The principle is simple: economic growth becomes more inclusive when working Filipinos keep more of what they earn.

Fiscal responsibility should not automatically mean imposing new or higher taxes on workers and compliant businesses. Tax relief can stimulate consumption, savings and investment while government improves collection elsewhere.

Second, attract investors — and make them stay.

Investment promotion should not end when a project receives approval.

Government must give equal importance to investor aftercare, expansion and retention. Major regulatory problems involving taxes, customs, permits, utilities or government agencies should have clear escalation mechanisms before they cause investors to defer projects or relocate.

We need red carpet, not red tape.

PEZA modernization should be prioritized, alongside stronger coordination among PEZA, BOI, BIR, Customs and other economic agencies.

Third, modernize tax administration.

Digitalization alone is no longer enough.

The BIR and Bureau of Customs should accelerate full e-invoicing, AI-enabled risk assessment, integrated government databases and automated customs and tax administration.

Technology should allow government to identify high-risk taxpayers more accurately while reducing unnecessary audits of businesses that consistently comply.

For honest taxpayers, modernization should mean fewer forms, fewer visits, faster transactions and greater certainty.

Fourth, pursue the revenues we are failing to collect.

We should strengthen enforcement against major tax evasion, illicit trade and unexplained wealth rather than repeatedly increasing the burden on the easiest taxpayers to collect from.

This includes appropriate reform of bank secrecy rules, subject to safeguards and due process, and a nationwide, evidence-based investigation of unexplained wealth where credible risk indicators exist.

Public officials, political dynasties, government contractors and major campaign donors should not be exempt from scrutiny when there are lawful grounds for investigation.

This is not about political persecution. It is about accountability, revenue recovery and restoring public trust.

Fifth, make government easier to deal with.

Ease of doing business is ultimately about time, predictability and accountability.

Every unnecessary permit is a cost. Every delayed approval is a cost. Every inconsistent interpretation of regulation is effectively another tax on investment.

This brings us to a broader question: Do higher taxes always produce higher revenues?

In a recent discussion with economist Prof. Arthur Laffer, we revisited the principle behind the Laffer Curve: tax rates and collections do not move upward indefinitely in a straight line because taxpayers and consumers change behavior.

This is particularly relevant as policymakers consider further increases in excise taxes.

Higher tobacco or vape taxes can serve legitimate health objectives. But policy cannot ignore enforcement and consumer behavior.

If legal cigarettes and vape products become substantially more expensive while smuggled and illicit alternatives remain cheaper, accessible and widely available, some consumers may simply move underground.

The unintended outcome could be troubling: higher statutory tax rates but weaker legitimate sales, more illicit trade and potentially less revenue than projected.

Tax policy must therefore look beyond the rate itself. Rates, enforcement, affordability, consumer behavior and illicit-market risks must be considered together.

The same logic strengthens the case for responsible income tax relief.

Government can recover revenues through better voluntary compliance, e-invoicing, AI-assisted enforcement, anti-illicit trade operations and adoption of the global minimum tax and QDMTT, ensuring that revenues from large multinational groups attributable to Philippine economic activity are not unnecessarily collected elsewhere.

This is why tax relief and fiscal discipline are not opposing goals.

We can lower the burden on honest taxpayers and collect more from evaders.

We can attract global investments while demanding accountability.

We can offer competitive incentives while requiring government institutions to perform.

Several structural reform proposals are already gaining attention from the President and policymakers, including increasing take-home pay, abolishing the travel tax, reforming bank secrecy and strengthening our ability to collect from large multinational enterprises.

That momentum should continue.

Ultimately, good governance is economic policy.

Global investors compare countries not only on tax rates but on regulatory certainty, institutional credibility, transparency and the rule of law.

The strongest investment promotion strategy is therefore not another slogan or roadshow.

It is a Philippines where workers keep more of what they earn, investors confidently enter and expand, major tax evaders are pursued instead of compliant taxpayers, and government becomes faster, simpler and more accountable.

Promote the Philippines abroad. Reform government at home.

More pay. More investments. Better government.

—-

Mon Abrea, CPA, MBA, MPA (Harvard), is a global tax policy expert and Chief Tax Advisor of Asian Consulting Group (ACGlobal). He is the author of Reimagining the World Without Corruption and Why Invest in the Philippines? CREATE MORE Edition. He has participated in tax and investment policy dialogues with policymakers and international institutions, including the OECD and World Bank.

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THE PHILIPPINES could remain below its growth potential for longer even with the government’s catch-up measures if it does not address the structural issues that are eroding its economic foundation, GlobalSource Partners said.

In a commentary, GlobalSource country analysts Diwa C. Guinigundo and Wilhelmina C. Mañalac said the government should focus on rebuilding its capacity to create sustainable conditions that support investment and boost productivity, not on merely reaching its growth targets.

“A stronger second half would certainly be welcome. But the real test of economic management is not whether GDP (gross domestic product) can be pushed back toward 4% for a few quarters,” Mr. Guinigundo and Ms. Mañalac said on Tuesday.

“It is whether the government can restore the conditions for sustained, investment-led, and productivity-driven growth. Otherwise, the Philippines should prepare not merely for another disappointing GDP number, but for a more persistent period of disappointing, but entirely expected, economic growth,” they added.

The economy saw its worst performance since the pandemic after expanding by only 2.3% in the second quarter from 2.8% in the first quarter and 5.4% a year earlier.

Public construction contracted in the second quarter amid the lingering fallout from the flood control graft scandal, worsening the decline in investment, while elevated inflation kept household spending subdued and further weighed on economic activity.

In the first half, GDP expanded 2.6%, below the government’s 3.5%-4.5% full-year goal.

Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio M. Baliscan earlier said the economy would have to expand by at least 4.4% in the second semester to achieve the lower end of the target.

The GlobalSource analysts noted that hitting even the lower end of this year’s growth target is a tough task, with compounding governance issues and global energy shocks keeping economic momentum weak.

Mr. Guinigundo and Ms. Mañalac said 4.4% growth in the second half may be achievable “in numbers” but requires a faster and broad-based rebound across the economy.

“That is possible in numbers. But economics is not merely arithmetic,” they said. “It would require a substantial turnaround in investment, stronger household demand, a revival of business confidence, continued export growth and much faster execution of government programs.”

The National Government has vowed to ramp up its spending and project implementation, particularly on infrastructure, to compensate for the slowdown caused by last year’s flood control mess.

This came on the back of still muted infrastructure spending, with the latest data showing a 42.9% decline to P269.4 billion as of May from P471.5 billion a year ago. Infrastructure spending has fallen for an 11^th consecutive month on an annual basis.

According to the government, infrastructure and other capital outlays could decline by 15.1% year on year to P931.54 billion this year from P1.1 trillion in 2025. It could rise slightly in 2027 but remain under a trillion, it added.

However, Mr. Guinigundo and Ms. Mañalac said the so-called catch-up measures are insufficient to resolve deep-seated structural gaps such as policy uncertainty, educational divide, food and energy insecurity, and unstable governance.

“This is where the government’s economic narrative needs to become more ambitious,” they said. “The Philippine economy does not merely need more spending in the second half of the year. It needs a stronger foundation for private investment and productivity.”

The GlobalSource analysts said the government must prioritize tackling the country’s investment environment, flagging longer term risks from declining gross capital formation.

“Investment is what expands productive capacity. It creates jobs, improves productivity, introduces new technology and raises future potential output,” they said. “When investment contracts sharply, the consequences extend well beyond the quarter in which the decline is recorded.”

Gross capital formation, the economy’s investment component, dropped by 9.2% in the second quarter. This was steeper than the 3.1% contraction in the previous quarter and marked a reversal of the 0.91% growth a year ago.

“The Philippine government’s proposed response, such as faster infrastructure spending and catch-up programs, may help produce a second-half rebound, but it will not by itself address the deeper structural weaknesses,” Mr. Guinigundo and Ms. Mañalac said.

“Restoring sustained growth requires rebuilding investor confidence, accelerating legitimate public investment without compromising anti-corruption efforts, improving the regulatory and permitting environment, strengthening education and human capital, addressing food and energy vulnerabilities, and pursuing a clearer industrial policy focused on productivity and higher-value investment,” they added.

PRICE PRESSURES
Meanwhile, Nomura Global Markets Research kept its headline inflation forecast at 5.1% for 2026 but sees room for more policy rate hikes amid the spillovers of high energy prices.

Nomura research analysts Euben Paracuelles and Nabila Amani said they continue to see lingering pressures from the oil shock feeding into other commodities, though they held their full-year core inflation estimate at 3.9%.

“In our view, headline inflation has already peaked, partly underpinned by our crude oil price assumption, but core inflation has not, as we expect persistent second-round effects from energy prices,” they said in an Aug. 11 report.

Headline inflation eased for a third straight month to 6.2% in July, while core inflation cooled for the first time in eight months to 4.2%. Both remain well above the central bank’s 3% target.

Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani said the Monetary Board may still raise its benchmark rate by 25 basis points (bps) each during its Aug. 27 and Oct. 22 meetings.

If realized, this would bring the BSP’s key policy rate to 5.25%.

“The latest CPI (consumer price index) inflation reading is unlikely to reduce BSP’s concerns but justifies its preference for a measured approach to its hiking cycle,” the Nomura analysts said.

This also came even after Nomura slashed its GDP growth forecast last week for the Philippines to 3.8% from 4.6% for this year following the weaker-than-expected print in the April-to-June period.

Mr. Paracuelles and Ms. Amani said they are banking on a second-half recovery driven by low base effects and potentially increased government spending but cautioned against risks from political uncertainty and the looming “Super El Niño.”

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. has left the door open for further hikes to bring inflation back to their target but noted that the tepid second-quarter growth print eased some pressure off their tightening prospects.

Mr. Remolona said inflation remains their top consideration but noted that they do not ignore growth concerns in adjusting their monetary policy to maintain price stability.

The Monetary Board has so far delivered two 25-bp hikes since it began tightening in April, with the benchmark interest rate now at 4.75%

THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT (NG) expects value-added tax (VAT) and related sales tax collections to rise by 12.8% in 2027, outpacing overall tax revenue growth despite the current weakness in household consumption.

The 2027 Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing (BESF) showed that the VAT and related sales tax collections are expected to increase to P860.03 billion next year from the P762.42-billion program for 2026.

The tally covers VAT and related sales taxes collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), net of VAT refunds, but excludes VAT on imports collected by the Bureau of Customs (BoC).

Overall tax revenues are projected to grow by 9.2% to P4.85 trillion in 2027 from the P4.44-trillion program for 2026.

Taxes on domestic goods and services, which include VAT, excise taxes, and taxes on selected services, are projected to jump by 11.3% to P1.75 trillion in 2027 from the P1.57-trillion program for 2026. The P177.18-billion increase would account for 43.3% of the projected P409.23-billion rise in overall tax revenues.

The projected P97.61-billion rise in VAT and related sales tax collections next year would account for 23.9% of the overall increase in tax revenues and 55.1% of the increase in taxes on domestic goods and services.

VAT would also post the fastest growth among the components of taxes on domestic goods and services.

Excise tax collections are projected to jump by 8.9% to P380.86 billion next year, while taxes on selected services are seen increasing by 9.1% to P164.39 billion.

Philippine Institute for Development Studies Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera said the projected increase in tax revenues assumes faster household consumption and economic activity in 2027.

“It is achievable if domestic demand and imports recover next year. It likely assumes stronger household consumption, firmer business activity, and better tax administration and compliance,” he told BusinessWorld via Viber.

Mr. Rivera said the Development Budget Coordination Committee earlier attributed the higher revenue targets for 2027 to tax reforms, digitalization, and enforcement.

For 2027, the government projects revenues to go up by 8.3% to P5.21 trillion, equivalent to 15.7% of gross domestic product (GDP).

“So, yes, the target does imply an expectation that domestic demand improves in 2027, but not necessarily a consumption boom. Part of the increase can also come from better collection efficiency and a broader tax base,” he added.

However, Mr. Rivera said the revenue outlook faces risks from weaker-than-expected consumption, slower investment, softer imports, and another external shock that keeps growth subdued.

The BESF projections already incorporate proceeds from legislated tax reform measures. These measures are projected to have a net revenue impact of P31.96 billion in 2027, up from the P29.47-billion program this year.

VAT on digital services is projected to generate P24.67 billion, the largest amount among these measures, while the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime and the excise tax on pickup trucks are expected to yield P6.1 billion and P7.44 billion, respectively.

These gains would be partly offset by estimated revenue losses of P4.61 billion from the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act and P1.65 billion from the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act.

However, the Department of Budget and Management said they do not yet account for the proposed tax-relief and revenue-generating measures under the Promoting Growth, Revenue, and Equity towards Socio-economic Sustainability tax package.

Estimates by the Department of Finance showed that the proposed measures would generate an average of P47.94 billion in net additional revenues annually from 2027 to 2030.

BIR COLLECTIONS
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Internal Revenue collected P2.003 trillion from January to July, exceeding its P1.99-trillion target for the period by P13.53 billion or 0.68%. The seven-month tally was 5.4% higher than a year earlier.

BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza said the agency had already collected around 60% of its full-year target for 2026, reflecting improving taxpayer compliance and sustained collection efforts.

For July alone, gross collections reached P358.44 billion, exceeding the P336.07-billion target by P22.37 billion or 6.66% and 5.73% higher than a year earlier.

“These results show that better taxpayer service, clearer rules, and effective enforcement can support stronger compliance and collection,” Mr. Mendoza said.

The BIR said its reform agenda includes simplifying tax rules and processes, expanding digital services, improving taxpayer assistance, strengthening audit safeguards, and enforcing tax laws against deliberate noncompliance.

Under the BESF, the BIR is projected to collect P3.736 trillion in 2027, up 10.1% from the P3.393-trillion program for 2026.

PESO DEPRECIATION
Meanwhile, the BESF showed that a P1 depreciation against the US dollar could narrow the NG’s 2027 budget deficit by P5.7 billion, as higher revenues are expected to more than offset increased disbursements.

The government expects the budget deficit to widen in nominal terms to P1.695 trillion in 2027 from the P1.659-trillion program this year. However, the deficit-to-GDP ratio is projected to fall to 5.1% from 5.4%.

The sensitivity analysis showed that a P1 depreciation would increase revenues by P10.6 billion while raising disbursements by P4.9 billion.

The sensitivity estimate measures the effect of a P1 change from the government’s baseline exchange rate assumption. The government assumes a peso-dollar exchange rate of P60 to P62 from 2026 to 2029.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said a weaker peso would increase the peso value of interest payments on US dollar- and other foreign currency-denominated debt.

On the revenue side, he said the increase would be “largely linked to import tax-related revenues, especially at the BoC.”

According to the BESF, import VAT collections are projected to rise by 5.6% to P692.31 billion in 2027 from the P655.89-billion program this year.

Mr. Ricafort said the larger impact on revenues than on disbursements could partly reflect the government’s domestic-heavy debt portfolio.

“A bigger share of domestic borrowings in the total borrowing mix in recent years may have helped,” he added.

The NG’s outstanding debt rose by 2.8% to P19.07 trillion at end-June from P18.55 trillion at end-May. Domestic obligations accounted for 67.33% of the debt stock, while the remaining 32.67% came from external sources.

The government plans to raise P3.304 trillion in gross borrowings in 2027, a 20.9% increase from the P2.734-trillion program this year.

Of the proposed gross borrowings, 72.3% would be from domestic sources. Gross domestic borrowings are projected to increase by 24.5% to P2.389 trillion from this year’s P1.918-trillion program.

The remaining P914.982 billion would be raised from external sources, up 12.2% from the P815.505-billion program for 2026.

Performance cannot be the only defining characteristic of a flagship business laptop. Executives also expect mobility, enterprise-grade security, dependable battery life, artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, and a design that looks as polished at the boardroom table.

ASUS has built the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra around those expectations.

Positioned as the company’s flagship business laptop, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra runs on up to Windows 11 Pro, up to Intel Core Ultra X9 Series 3 processor, Intel Arc graphics, up to 64 gigabytes of Low Power Double Data Rate 5X memory, a 2-terabyte Peripheral Component Interconnect Express 5.0 solid-state drive, and a dedicated 50 trillion operations per second (50 TOPS) neural processing unit (NPU) for on-device AI workloads.

The business laptop also features a 14-inch 3K Tandem Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display protected by a Corning Gorilla Matte; a comprehensive set of ports, including dual Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, so you can easily work from anywhere.

But these specifications tell only part of the story. Here are 10 ways the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra distinguishes itself as a business laptop for decision-makers.

1. Work almost anywhere with ultraportability

Mobility remains one of the defining requirements for modern executives.

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra weighs as little as 0.99 kilogram for selected configurations and measures only 10.9 millimeters thick, making it one of the company’s lightest commercial laptops. The magnesium-aluminum chassis further maintains structural rigidity and contributes to the laptop’s reduced weight.

For executives searching for a 14-inch business laptop, portability increasingly matters as much as processing capability. Carrying a lighter device may likewise reduce their fatigue during important tasks.

2. Military-grade durability

Executive schedules often expose laptops to frequent changes of environment and heavy daily use. Durability matters even more because damaged equipment creates unnecessary interruptions.

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra passed 24 MIL-STD-810H military-standard test procedures along with more than 150 internal ASUS durability tests. The laptop also features reinforced input-output ports, a spill-resistant keyboard, strengthened hinges, scratch-resistant materials, and Nano Ceramic technology to resist daily wear.

The exterior is designed to maintain its finish through repeated use, helping the laptop remain presentable during client meetings and executive presentations. Rather than focusing solely on appearance, ASUS places durability as part of long-term reliability.

3. All-day battery life for greater productivity

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra incorporates a 70-watt-hour battery capable of delivering between 18 and 24 hours of use depending on workload. Under specific conditions, it may even extend up to 26 hours.

The laptop also supports USB Type-C charging, which allows compatible power banks and USB-C chargers to supplement power while traveling.

The flexibility of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra may be just as valuable as its battery capacity for professionals looking for a long-battery-life laptop.

4. Display designed for demanding work environments

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra features a 14-inch 3K Tandem OLED touchscreen with a 2880-by-1800 resolution, variable refresh rates from 30 to 120 hertz, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 1000 certification, and up to 1,400-nit HDR brightness.

Meanwhile, the anti-glare surface is intended to reduce reflections in brightly lit conference rooms while preserving image clarity.

Executives, therefore, may benefit from sharper visuals and improved readability across different environments.

5. Listen with premium audio systems

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra features a six-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system with Smart Amplifier technology. Combined with AI Noise-Canceling Technology and dual multi-array microphones that support speech recognition, the audio system is designed to improve communication during hybrid meetings.

Through its integrated audio capabilities, the system delivers fuller sound with greater clarity than conventional business laptops, making long meetings and quick calls easier to hear across boardrooms without relying on external speakers.

6. Reflection of professionalism

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra combines an all-metal magnesium-aluminum chassis with Nano Ceramic technology that resists scratches, fingerprints, and stains while maintaining a refined appearance.

The company also incorporates Expert Lumi, an ambient lighting feature that provides visual indicators during use and complements the laptop’s premium design language.

Available in Morn Grey and Jet Fog, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is designed to project confidence in executive settings without sacrificing portability or durability.

7. Access to direct AI-powered workloads

On top of its reliable features, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is a certified Copilot+ PC, designed to perform a higher level of AI workloads and gives users access to productivity features such as:

• AI live video captions during meetings
• AI-enhanced video and audio quality with automatic framing, background blur, portrait lighting, and voice focus
• Click to Do to automatically search the web with Copilot
• Recall past content with screen snapshots

The ExpertBook Ultra also features ASUS MyExpert, an on-device AI packed with a multitude of AI features for businesses: AI meeting minutes, file search, and live video translation.

With ASUS MyExpert, professionals can easily access AI assistance to boost productivity and enhance workflow efficiency in everyday work. Moreover, on-device AI provides enhanced data security, as information is processed and stored locally, without heavy reliance on the cloud.

For executives and businesses, this means AI that works alongside them on the ExpertBook Ultra — summarizing meetings, finding files instantly, and breaking down language barriers in real time with enhanced security so executives can dedicate more time to strategic decision making.

8. Conduct meetings with AI assistance

Meetings often generate action items and decisions that require accurate documentation. Missing even one detail may delay execution.

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra addresses this through ASUS MyExpert, which includes AI ExpertMeet. The feature can generate meeting and video transcripts, summarize discussions, and organize key points through on-device AI processing.

This aspect reduces time spent reconstructing conversations after they end. Instead of relying entirely on handwritten notes, executives can now record, review, and share summarized discussions immediately after the meeting concludes.

9. Communicate across languages

Business expansion requires conversations across multiple markets and languages. AI ExpertMeet supports live AI translated subtitles when watching videos and in online meetings, so participants can better follow multilingual discussions without depending on external translation services.

Integrated language assistance may simplify communication during virtual meetings and help executives remain focused on the discussion itself rather than language differences.

10. Protect confidential information

Executive devices frequently contain plans, reports, road maps, legal documents, and customer information. That is why many business leaders still remain cautious about sending confidential information online.

With AI ExpertMeet, a confidential watermark function marks sensitive documents during meetings.

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra also incorporates enterprise-focused protections through ASUS ExpertGuardian, including Trusted Platform Module 2.0, dual self-healing Basic Input/Output System, Microsoft Secured-core PC support, an ASUS Security Processor, a webcam privacy shutter, and a security architecture aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-193 process.

These capabilities target organizations and executives that prioritize cybersecurity, data privacy, and network security.

From the first meeting of the day up to the final decision, executives need a device that can keep pace with their demands. ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is designed to support that workflow with its AI-powered productivity tools, enterprise security, premium portability, and commercial-grade sturdiness.

Get P13,000 worth of gifts when you buy ASUS ExpertBook Ultra this August 2026

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is available starting at P129,995 at select ASUS authorized stores and tech stores nationwide.

Every ASUS ExpertBook purchase includes a 3-year battery and charger warranty extension, ensuring your device stays covered and performing at its best well into the future and upgradeable warranty of up to 5 years.

Where to Buy ASUS ExpertBook Ultra: https://ph.asus.click/ExpertBookUltra-WheretoBuy

ASUS ExpertBook Store – Lazada: https://ph.asus.click/ASUSExpertBookStoreLazada

ASUS ExpertBook Store – Shopee: https://ph.asus.click/ASUSExpertBookStoreShopee 

ASUS Business Philippines offers flexible configurations tailored to your organization’s specific requirements. For Volume Purchases, visit https://ph.asus.click/Business-VolumePurchase to get started.

ASUS Business Philippines is offering an exclusive Early Bird Bundle Promo for the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra. Purchase any unit of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra until Aug. 31, 2026 from select tech stores and ASUS Expert Stores in Lazada and Shopee and get as much as P13,000+ worth of ASUS 100W GaN Charger and SSI Gift Certificates. DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-261070 Series of 2026.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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South Asialink Finance Corp. (SAFC), one of the Philippines’ leading financing companies, is strengthening its collections operations by adopting AI Rudder’s conversational AI technology. As its customer base continues to grow, SAFC is investing in intelligent automation to enhance collection efficiency, improve customer outreach, and enable its collections teams to focus on higher-value interactions.

To support these efforts, SAFC has partnered with AI Rudder, a Singapore-headquartered enterprise conversational AI company, to deploy its AI Voice Agent solution. Designed specifically for high-volume customer engagement, AI Voice Agent conducts natural, two-way voice conversations with customers, enabling timely payment reminders, account follow-ups, and collections outreach at scale. Powered by advanced conversational AI, the solution delivers real-time, human-like interactions while ensuring consistent communication across every customer touchpoint.

By integrating AI Voice Agent into its collections workflow, SAFC is enhancing the efficiency of routine collections activities while allowing its collections specialists to focus on more complex cases that require empathy, negotiation, and human judgment. The solution also helps improve operational productivity, increase customer reach, and provide a more consistent and convenient experience throughout the collections journey.

The collaboration reflects SAFC’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its collections strategy through innovation. By leveraging conversational AI, the company is building a more agile and scalable collections operation that supports sustainable business growth while maintaining a customer-first approach.

“Our customers expect timely, convenient, and respectful communication throughout their financial journey. As our business continues to expand, we are committed to adopting technologies that help us strengthen our collections operations while delivering a better customer experience. This partnership with AI Rudder reflects our commitment to investing in the right tools that allow us to better serve our customers and operate more efficiently,” said Maricel D. Dejongoy, SAFC President and Chief Executive Officer.

“We’re excited to partner with SAFC as they transform their collections operations with conversational AI. Collections today are no longer just about improving operational efficiency, they’re also about creating better customer experiences through timely, personalized, and empathetic engagement. Our AI Voice Agent helps financial institutions scale their outreach while empowering human agents to focus on conversations where they can create the greatest value,” said Bianca Cheng, Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer of AI Rudder.

The collaboration between SAFC and AI Rudder reflects the growing adoption of conversational AI across the financial services industry. By combining SAFC’s expertise in consumer financing with AI Rudder’s advanced AI Voice Agent technology, both organizations are working to build smarter, more efficient, and customer-centric collections that support stronger business outcomes and long-term customer relationships.

About SAFC

SAFC (South Asialink Finance Corporation) is one of the leading non-bank financial institutions in the Philippines. For over two decades, it has empowered Filipinos by providing accessible and reliable financing solutions. With a nationwide network of around 100 branches and growing, SAFC plays a vital role in driving growth across communities, making financing more accessible to Filipinos who need it most. It serves as a trusted partner to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), supporting business expansion and helping create meaningful economic opportunities. For more information, visit www.safc.com.ph.

About AI Rudder

AI Rudder is a conversational AI company that helps businesses automate customer interactions through AI-powered voice and digital communication solutions. By leveraging AI technology to enhance customer experience, AI Rudder has helped more than 100 companies improve the scale, speed, and quality of their customer interactions. Headquartered in Singapore, AI Rudder also has offices and operations in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Mexico, and Brazil. For more information, visit www.airudder.com.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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The projected rate is higher than estimates for Singapore at 19.3% and Malaysia at 18.2%, while attrition in some segments of the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry could exceed 30%, highlighting the growing challenge for companies competing for skilled workers.

The projected 20% turnover rate reflects “a fundamental shift in workforce expectations,” Mr. Sreenivasaiah said.

He said the problem is being driven by a growing gap between employee expectations and their day-to-day workplace experience. While companies continue to invest heavily in recruitment, employees are increasingly evaluating employers based on factors beyond compensation, including career growth, flexibility, workplace processes and overall well-being.

The Philippines is particularly exposed to these pressures because of the competitiveness of its talent pool. Filipino workers are highly skilled, English-proficient and digitally fluent, making them attractive to cross-border remote employers and the global IT-BPM industry.

“However, this global employability coincides with local friction,” Mr. Sreenivasaiah said.

According to Mr. Sreenivasaiah, Filipino employees remain among the most stressed workers in Southeast Asia despite also being highly psychologically attached to their work.

He said prolonged workplace friction can eventually outweigh employee loyalty, making retention a matter of balancing the competitiveness of the regional labor market with the realities of the local workforce.

For younger workers, meanwhile, salary increases alone are becoming a less effective retention tool.

Mr. Sreenivasaiah said compensation remains a basic consideration, but relying solely on pay increases is a reactive approach that can provide only temporary relief, particularly among Gen Z and millennial employees.

According to Mr. Sreenivasaiah, more than half of Filipino Gen Z professionals cite career growth as their primary reason for staying with an employer. This points to a broader shift in how younger workers assess their jobs, with continuous skills development, clear career pathways and workplace flexibility becoming increasingly important.

“When employees encounter slow legacy processes and unclear career roadmaps, financial incentives only delay resignations rather than prevent them,” Mr. Sreenivasaiah said.

He urged companies to move from “transactional retention” toward “relational retention,” including through HR technologies that reduce administrative friction and provide employees with clearer opportunities for advancement within the organization.

The BPO and shared services sectors face an additional challenge because of the cumulative operational pressures associated with the industry.

Mr. Sreenivasaiah said demanding schedules, rigid performance metrics, gaps in frontline leadership and fragmented HR systems can contribute to employee fatigue and frustration.

He recommended that BPO companies strengthen frontline management by giving supervisors better coaching tools and integrating workforce systems such as payroll, leave management and performance tracking.

“When employees feel supported by efficient infrastructure and see clear pathways for skill progression, they are far more resilient to the inherent demands of the sector,” he said.

Work arrangements are also becoming a more significant factor in retention decisions.

In major urban centers such as Metro Manila, Mr. Sreenivasaiah said flexibility is increasingly viewed not simply as an employee benefit but as an economic and well-being consideration. Mandatory return-to-office arrangements can translate into hours spent commuting, affecting employees’ take-home pay and quality of life amid rising living costs.

He said employers should avoid treating remote work and full-time office work as an either-or choice and instead develop well-governed hybrid arrangements.

Companies can use work-from-home options to reduce commute-related stress while maintaining structured in-person interactions for collaboration and workplace culture, he said.

“When flexibility is embedded into a well-governed, compliant HR framework, it directly strengthens talent retention without compromising operational oversight,” Mr. Sreenivasaiah said.

Beyond workplace policies, companies can also use workforce data to identify employees who may be at risk of leaving before they submit their resignations.

Mr. Sreenivasaiah said organizations should look beyond traditional indicators such as exit interviews and monthly turnover figures. Changes in participation in learning and upskilling programs, attendance and overtime patterns, as well as employee sentiment and survey feedback can provide earlier signals of potential attrition.

“Resignation is not an isolated event, but the culmination of subtle, observable workforce signals over time,” he said.

By combining employee feedback with workforce data, companies can identify potential attrition risks earlier and allow managers to intervene before employees decide to leave.

Employee well-being is another area where employers have made progress, although gaps remain.

Mr. Sreenivasaiah pointed to the growth of corporate wellness programs and stronger attention to workplace mental health frameworks. However, he said wellness initiatives alone cannot address the underlying causes of workplace stress.

Companies can still fall short when they treat well-being as a periodic check-in instead of an organizational priority. Unclear processes, excessive workloads and inefficient technology can continue to create stress even when wellness programs are available.

“True well-being requires addressing the root causes of workplace stress,” Mr. Sreenivasaiah said.

This includes streamlining workflows, setting realistic operational expectations and training managers to create psychologically safe workplaces.

For companies that are successfully retaining workers despite a competitive labor market, Mr. Sreenivasaiah said a common factor is treating talent management as an ongoing strategy rather than a periodic human resources exercise.

He identified data-driven compensation and benefits management, clear internal career pathways and digital-first HR services as practices that can strengthen retention.

Organizations can use market data to keep compensation and benefits competitive, while skill-based career pathways can help employees see opportunities for advancement without having to leave their current employer.

Digital HR platforms can also provide employees with faster access to payroll, benefits and personal information, reducing the everyday administrative friction that can contribute to workplace dissatisfaction.

Looking ahead, Mr. Sreenivasaiah said Philippine employers should focus on building more agile HR systems over the next 12 months.

This includes modernizing fragmented HR infrastructure, investing in employee training on emerging digital and artificial intelligence tools, and strengthening frontline leadership.

According to him, managers should move beyond administrative supervision and take on a greater role as career coaches who can understand and respond to employees’ needs.

Ultimately, the retention challenge requires companies to rethink the role of human resources.

“HR can no longer be viewed merely as an administrative support function. In a competitive regional landscape, an agile, data-ready HR ecosystem is a direct driver of strategic business performance and long-term enterprise value,” Mr. Sreenivasaiah said. — Kaizzer Angela Marie V. Manuba

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August 6, 2026 — Malay, Aklan

The Municipality of Malay, Aklan warmly welcomed the delegation from the Municipality of Taytay, Rizal, led by Municipal Mayor Hon. Allan De Leon, during a courtesy visit to the Sangguniang Bayan ng Malay as the two local government units strengthened their sisterhood relationship.

More than a ceremonial partnership, the engagement opened the door to meaningful collaboration and the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices that can help both municipalities move forward.

Joining the Taytay delegation were LEDIPO Taytay OIC Atty. Dustin Regalado, LEDIPO Taytay Focal Person Cristina “Chin” Gonzales, Taytay Tourism Head Ruel Supendio, and PCCI Rizal President Gladdie Mallari. Representing Malay in the discussions was LEDIPO Malay’s Niel Flores.

Their participation highlighted the importance of bringing together local government, tourism, economic development, and the private sector to explore new possibilities for cooperation.

From tourism and investment to local economic development and governance, the meeting provided an avenue for both municipalities to identify areas where their experiences and strengths can complement one another.

The partnership is anchored on Resolution No. 165, Series of 2024, entitled “A Resolution Establishing the Sisterhood Relationship Between the Municipality of Malay, Aklan and the Municipality of Taytay, Rizal, and Authorizing Municipal Mayor Frolibar S. Bautista to Negotiate and Sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Municipality of Taytay, Rizal.”

The resolution was enacted and approved in September 2024, setting the foundation for a partnership built on cooperation, mutual understanding, and shared development.

More Than a Partnership

The sisterhood relationship represents an opportunity to go beyond formal ties and create real, lasting connections between communities.

Malay, known as a premier tourism destination in Aklan, and Taytay, a growing center of commerce and development in Rizal, bring different strengths and experiences to the table. By sharing these strengths, both municipalities can discover new opportunities for growth and innovation.

The exchange of best practices may open doors for collaboration in tourism promotion, investment, trade, local economic development, governance, and community-based programs.

The involvement of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Offices (LEDIPO) of both municipalities, the Taytay Tourism Office, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Rizal further underscores the potential for stronger public-private partnerships.

Building Bridges, Opening Doors

The gathering in Malay was more than a courtesy visit—it was a step toward building bridges between two communities and opening doors to new possibilities.

Through continued dialogue and collaboration, Malay and Taytay look forward to turning their sisterhood relationship into concrete programs, stronger partnerships, and meaningful opportunities for their constituents.

The Sangguniang Bayan ng Malay remains committed to building partnerships that promote innovation, inclusive development, and good governance.

As Malay and Taytay move forward together, their sisterhood relationship carries a clear message: when local governments share knowledge, build partnerships, and work toward a common vision, distance becomes no barrier to progress.

Malay and Taytay—two communities, one shared vision for a more connected, progressive, and prosperous future. 

#SmileTaytay
#LEDIPO
#Boracay

By: Meme Borja

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The Philippines’ dollar reserves plunged to its lowest level in nearly two years as the central bank used its dollars to support the peso amid renewed volatility last month, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said on Friday.

Preliminary central bank data showed the country held $103.379 billion in gross international reserves (GIR) as of end-July, a level the regulator said “remained adequate.”

However, this reflected a 1.3% dip from the $104.745 billion the prior month, and a 1.93% drop from $105.418 billion a year ago.

This was the lowest GIR level in 18 months or since the $103.271 billion logged in January 2025, and marked the fifth straight month that the GIR level slipped on an annual basis.

In a statement on Friday, the central bank said its reserves shrank mainly due to its net foreign exchange operations, especially as the strong dollar weighed once again on the peso.

In July, reignited conflict in the Middle East jolted markets anew and triggered safe-haven demand for the greenback. This dragged the peso to its new historic low of P61.847 against the dollar on July 24, breaking its previous record of P61.75 on July 23.

Based on BSP data, the local unit continued to average above the P61 handle for a third straight month with P61.5963 per dollar in July.

The central bank also said the country’s GIR fell after the national government withdrew from its foreign currency accounts with the BSP to pay its external debts, with its total withdrawals exceeding its deposits during the month.

However, the decline was partly offset by higher valuations of the BSP’s gold holdings amid elevated global gold prices as well as the central bank’s net income from its foreign investments.

Dollar reserves are the central bank’s foreign assets held mostly as investments in foreign-issued securities, foreign exchange and monetary gold, among others.

These are supplemented by claims to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the form of reserve position in the fund and special drawing rights (SDRs).

As of end-July, the BSP’s gold holdings stood at $17.49 billion, rising by 1.72% from $17.194 a month earlier and by 26.89% from $13.783 billion the previous year.

Its reserve position in the IMF also inched up by 0.08% to $725.2 million from $724.6 million at end-June but dropped by 0.52% from $729 million a year ago.

Meanwhile, its SDRs — or the amount the Philippines can tap from the IMF’s reserve currency basket — climbed by 0.56% to $3.937 billion from end-June’s $3.915 billion and by an annual 1.22% from $3.89 billion.

The BSP’s foreign currency and deposits, however, decreased by 19.16% month-on-month to $1.849 billion at end-July from $2.287 billion. Year on year, it saw a sharper decline of 75.4% from $7.516 billion.

Its securities likewise dropped by 6.63% to $67.264 billion from $72.037 billion the prior month and by 7.81% from $72.958 billion in the same period last year.

On the other hand, its other reserve assets amounted to $12.115 billion in July, soaring by 41.08% from $8.587 billion at end-June. It was also nearly double the $6.542 billion seen a year ago.

The central bank noted that its end-July reserves could cover about 3.6 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity.

It likewise translates to 6.7 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income, exceeding the three-month standard.

“These provide sufficient foreign currency to meet the country’s import needs, service its external debt obligations, and serve as a buffer against external economic shocks,” the BSP said.

The BSP expects its foreign reserves to fall to $104 billion by end-2026 from the $110.8 billion it held last year.

Data from the State of the Filipino Virtual Assistant Industry report showed that the company’s monthly application volume increased from 10,857 in January to 23,874 in June, representing a more than double increase in the first half of the year.

“Everyone talks about the Philippines as a source of affordable talent,” VA Masters Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alon Pearl said in the report.

“What the data actually shows is a talent pool so deep that we place fewer than one in 500 applicants,” he added. “The story here isn’t cost, it’s selectivity.”

A VA offers administrative, marketing, technical, and customer service support to clients from a remote office. Common tasks include managing email, handling social media, bookkeeping, data entry, and customer support.

Despite the rise in applications, the agency noted that only 0.20% of its applicants, or 327 out of 166,350, were actually hired by employers.

Throughout the hiring process, 49% are invited to a skills test, and only 8.3% complete the screening. Some 4.5% are scored and evaluated, while 1.2% can score an interview.

The majority of those who applied (61.5%) and got hired (69%) were female.

On the employers’ side, 69% of the agency’s clients are located in the United States. The United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Europe, and other countries followed at 11%, while Australia and New Zealand trailed behind at 9%.

86% of VA demands also come from businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Of which, 53% are micro-businesses, 30% from small businesses, and 3% are solo-founders.

Larger companies, or those that handle over 200 employees, accounted for 8% of the demands, while mid-size companies accounted for 5%.

“The offshore VA model is above all a small-business growth tool,” the agency said. “For many, a VA is their first or second hire.”

The Philippines accounts for an estimated 38% of the global VA workforce, making it the single largest source of VA talent worldwide. The global virtual assistant services market is estimated to reach $6.5 billion in 2026, and is expected to hit $34 billion by 2030. — Almira Louise S. Martinez

The developments will consist of 80% socialized and 20% economic housing units, expanding the supply of quality, affordable homes in key growth areas across South and Central Luzon and helping meet the housing needs of Filipino workers and their families.

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling, who also chairs the Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees, said the partnership reflects the administration’s continuing efforts to accelerate housing delivery through stronger collaboration with the private sector.

“As we continue to heed the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., we are strengthening our partnerships with the private sector to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes for Filipino families. Through this partnership, we are bringing together government financing and private-sector capability to increase housing supply, help more Filipino workers achieve the dream of homeownership, create jobs, support industries and drive inclusive economic growth,” Mr. Aliling said.

To finance the construction of the housing developments, Pag-IBIG Fund will subscribe to preferred shares to be issued by PAAPDC amounting to P2.9 billion, payable in tranches. The investment will earn a fixed annual return of 9% over the next three years.

The investment underwent Pag-IBIG Fund’s comprehensive evaluation process, which included an assessment of the proposed developments, their locations and market demand, PAAPDC’s financial and operational capacity, and the safeguards incorporated into the transaction to ensure the continued protection of members’ savings.

Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta said the partnership reflects Pag-IBIG Fund’s continuing commitment to help more Filipino workers achieve homeownership while prudently investing members’ savings to generate secure and sustainable returns.

“This partnership demonstrates how Pag-IBIG Fund fulfills its dual mandate of helping more Filipino workers achieve the dream of homeownership while prudently investing and growing our members’ savings. By supporting the construction of more than 7,300 affordable homes through a prudent investment that provides stable returns, we protect our members’ hard-earned savings, sustain competitive dividends and strengthen our capacity to finance even more homes for Filipino workers,” Ms. Acosta said.

Pag-IBIG Fund is likewise assessing additional investment partnerships with qualified housing developers as part of its continuing efforts to accelerate the construction of socialized and affordable homes while generating secure and sustainable returns for members’ savings.

In the first half of 2026, Pag-IBIG Fund released P69.19 billion in housing loans to help 43,051 Filipino workers acquire their own homes. Socialized housing financing more than doubled during the period, with 6,601 minimum-wage and low-income members securing homes under the Expanded 4PH Program.

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Every journey begins somewhere. More often, they’re built through the everyday moments that quietly move us forward. Today, journeys extend far beyond travel, unfolding through the everyday moments that shape how we work, create, connect, and pursue what matters most. Embracing this evolving way of moving, LOJEL expands its beloved NIRU Collection with six new styles thoughtfully designed to adapt to every moment.

Rooted in LOJEL’s philosophy of purposeful design, the expanded collection combines versatility with understated aesthetics, featuring durable recycled nylon paired with LWG Certified full-grain leather. Designed to transition seamlessly between environments while offering intuitive organization and everyday functionality. Designed for life in motion, NIRU adapts to every transition, making it a natural companion from here to everywhere.

LOJEL Niru Collection

Designed around this evolving lifestyle, the Niru Collection offers twelve silhouettes spanning weekender bags, backpacks, totes, slings, and crossbody bags.

Travel Bags

Designed for journeys that go beyond the everyday, NIRU’s travel bags offer spacious versatility without compromising on style. The 24H Overnighter is thoughtfully crafted for overnight stays and quick escapes, while the 48H Weekender provides generous capacity for extended weekends and short getaways.

Backpacks

Whether navigating daily commutes or exploring new cities, NIRU’s backpacks are built to move effortlessly with modern life. The Daypack delivers generous storage for work and travel essentials, while the Daypack Mini offers the same thoughtful organization in a more compact silhouette. Completing the lineup is the Journey Pack, which combines a roomy 35L capacity with two-way carry functionality, making it equally suited for business trips, spontaneous adventures, and everything in between.

Totes

Balancing practicality with understated elegance, NIRU’s tote collection adapts to every pace of the day. The City Tote is designed for everyday essentials, featuring spacious interiors and a convenient trolley sleeve, while the City Tote Plus offers additional capacity and enhanced organization for longer days on the move. For added versatility, the 3 Way Tote and 3 Way Tote Mini effortlessly transform between tote, shoulder, and crossbody bags, adapting to changing routines with ease.

Crossbody Bags

Created for effortless movement, NIRU’s crossbody collection keeps everyday essentials close while offering the flexibility to move hands-free. The City Sling Mini is designed for minimalist carry and can be worn as a crossbody, waist bag, or pouch, while the City Sling provides additional storage for daily necessities. Completing the category is the City Shoulder, a refined everyday companion that combines clean aesthetics with intuitive organization for life on the go.

The Faces of “From Here to Everywhere”

For a growing generation of Filipinos, movement has become part of everyday life — not simply between cities or countries, but between passions, professions, and possibilities. This latest chapter also marks the launch of From Here to Everywhere, LOJEL’s regional campaign celebrating the many ways people move through work, passion, creativity, and everyday life.

LOJEL Philippines partnered with individuals whose work reflects the many ways Filipinos move through the world. Artists, entrepreneurs, designers, musicians, and storytellers whose days rarely follow a single path, they represent a generation building meaningful careers through creativity, sustainability, curiosity, and purpose. Each portrait captures them within their own environment, spaces where ideas are created, communities are nurtured, and everyday journeys begin.

Each bringing a different version of what “everywhere” means.

From award-winning singer-songwriter Nica Del Rosario; restaurateur of OnlyPans Taqueria and entrepreneur Audrey Cruz; illustrator and founder of Ang Manileña, Ross Du; sustainable fashion designer and founder or RIOTaso, Rio Cuervo; perfumer and founder of Tadhana, Shale Albao; fashion stylist and creative director of Gotsauce Studios Jana Silao; model and dancer Agatha Gutierrez; landscape architect or CLARQ Landscape Design, Vincent Lim; photographer and documentary filmmaker Renzo Maano; creative director of Jagger Studios, Arj Madarang; and terrarium artisan of Moss Escape, Brian Dimarucot. Though they come from diverse disciplines, each is driven by creativity, purpose, and a passion for their craft. Photographed within the environments where they create and thrive. Together, they embody LOJEL’s belief that meaningful journeys are not measured by distance, but by the ideas we pursue, the lives we touch, and the purpose that moves us from here to everywhere.

The L’Essentiel Niru Collection Launch

The campaign officially debuted through L’Essentiel: The NIRU Collection Launch, an intimate gathering that brought together LOJEL’s community of media, ambassadors, creators, collaborators, and longtime friends of the brand. Inspired by the French word l’essentiel, meaning “the essential,” the event celebrated the people and relationships that continue to shape LOJEL’s journey while unveiling the expanded NIRU Collection and the regional From Here to Everywhere campaign.

LOJEL Niru Everyday Extension Exclusive Preview

An exclusive preview of the NIRU Everyday Extension Collection extension also gave attendees an early look at LOJEL’s latest everyday carry innovations. Thoughtfully designed to complement the collection’s existing lineup, the new silhouettes further reinforce the brand’s commitment to creating products that adapt effortlessly to modern movement.

The story doesn’t end with the campaign’s featured creatives. Through #FromHereToEverywhere, LOJEL invites everyone to contribute their own journeys, building a community shaped by authentic experiences. As these stories unfold, they transform individual experiences into a growing archive of journeys that resonate far beyond geography. Because every meaningful destination begins somewhere.

The Niru Collection is now available at the LOJEL store on Level 2, South Main Mall, SM Mall of Asia, at The Travel Club stores nationwide, Rustan’s Makati, select SM Stores, and online via The Travel Club. Follow @lojeljourneys and @primergroup on Instagram and join the conversation by sharing where your Niru takes you using #FromHereToEverywhere, #LojelPH, and #LojelJourneys.

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In the 2026 Microsoft Work Trend Index Annual Report released on Friday, one in four Filipinos, or about 25%, are classified as “Frontier Professionals,” a category given to the most advanced users of AI. This is above the global average of 16%.

Filipinos are also 56% more likely than the global average to be operating at the most advanced level of AI use.

“Note the distinction: This is not adoption, it’s maturity. It’s a signal of maturity,” Josh Aquino, head of communications for Microsoft Philippines, said during the report’s launch.

Frontier Professionals, Mr. Aquino said, are AI users who employ AI agents for complex, multi-step workflows and redesign work around what AI does well.

These users also set quality standards for their teams and continue to think critically, refusing to outsource their judgment to AI.

The Philippines also led the global average across every key measure in the study. It found that 77% of Filipino respondents said they could produce work they were incapable of doing a year ago. Meanwhile, 65% identified critical thinking as the most important human skill, 59% cited quality control of AI-generated output as the top priority, 93% said they treat AI output as a starting point rather than a final answer, and 86% said they remain responsible for the thinking behind their work.

While the Philippines ranks above the global average in terms of the share of advanced AI users, Filipino Frontier Professionals still want to retain the human touch in their work. About 53% said they intentionally complete some tasks without AI to keep their skills sharp, while 61% said they deliberately pause before starting work to determine which tasks should be handled by AI and which should remain human-led. Both figures are above the global average.

“Our most advanced users are the most deliberate about staying human. This is not hesitancy, it’s discipline,” Mr. Aquino said.

The report also found that while Filipino workers are rapidly adopting AI, many organizations have yet to fully catch up with the technology’s transformation.

Microsoft described this as the “Transformation Paradox,” where employees are embracing AI faster than the organizations they work for.

About 35% of Filipino AI users said their company’s leadership is clearly and consistently aligned on AI, higher than the global average of 26%.

Still, 66% of respondents said they worry they will fall behind if they fail to adapt quickly to AI, while 53% admitted it feels safer to focus on existing priorities than redesign work around the technology.

Only 25% said they are rewarded for reinventing how they work using AI, although this was nearly double the global average of 13%.

The study also found that advanced AI users, or Frontier Professionals, receive stronger workplace support than their peers.

Among Frontier Professionals, 86% said their managers openly use AI and set quality standards for AI-assisted work, while 87% said their managers encourage teams to take more ambitious approaches in redesigning work.

Their teams also collaborate more actively in adopting AI. About 74% regularly brainstorm ways to identify AI opportunities in business processes, compared with 55% among non-Frontier teams. Meanwhile, 61% said they actively share AI tips, tools, and lessons learned, while 56% discuss quality standards for AI-assisted work.

Microsoft said organizational factors, such as workplace culture, manager support, and talent practices, have more than twice the influence on successful AI transformation than individual mindset and behavior alone, accounting for 67% of the impact compared with 32%.

The company cited PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. as examples of organizations embedding AI into everyday operations after rolling out 1,000 Microsoft 365 Copilot licenses across their workforce.

The report also noted the accelerating pace of AI adoption, with AI agents growing 15-fold year on year across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem and 18-fold among large enterprises.

Microsoft said organizations that are able to capture, share, and scale what employees learn from working with AI—or what it calls a “Learning System”—will be better positioned to create long-term business value.

The 2026 Microsoft Work Trend Index Annual Report was based on a global survey of 20,000 full-time employees across 10 countries, including the Philippines, conducted from Feb. 18 to Apr. 20, 2026. The study also drew from trillions of anonymized Microsoft 365 productivity signals and interviews with experts in artificial intelligence, work, and organizational psychology. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

Awich will embark on a bold new artistic chapter this November as she headlines the inaugural Japanese edition of Red Bull Symphonic. Renowned for pairing internationally celebrated artists with full orchestras, the concert series will see Awich perform alongside the Tokyo Secret Orchestra, conducted by Mika Takayama.

For the first time, Awich’s catalogue will be reimagined through newly commissioned symphonic arrangements, transforming her signature sound into an expansive live performance that bridges the raw energy of hip-hop with the scale and emotion of a full orchestra.

Known for continually pushing creative boundaries, Awich sees the collaboration as a meaningful milestone in her artistic journey.

“Hip-hop is a genre born from the use of sampling and beats in environments where access to traditional instruments was often difficult. Being able to reconstruct my songs with an orchestra feels like a significant milestone and holds deep meaning for me. I hope to deliver a cinematic musical experience—something that feels like watching an epic film,” says Awich.

Created exclusively for Red Bull Symphonic, the new arrangements go far beyond orchestral accompaniment. Each song has been reconstructed from the ground up, with every element—from melody and rhythm to harmony—reinterpreted while preserving the spirit of the originals, offering audiences an entirely new way to experience Awich’s music.

The performances will take place at four of Japan’s most prestigious concert halls: The Symphony Hall in Osaka on 17th of November, Fukuoka Symphony Hall on 19th of November, Sendai Bank Hall Izumity 21 on 25th of November and Yokohama Minato Mirai Hall on 27th of November.

Following acclaimed editions featuring international artists including Metro Boomin, Asake, and Rick Ross, Awich now joins the Red Bull Symphonic lineup as its first Asian artist, bringing her distinctive voice and artistry into a bold new musical setting.

Advance ticket sales begin on Friday, August 7 at 6:00 PM (JST). Additional event details can be found via Red Bull Symphonic.

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“With IELTS, what we’re really proud of when it comes to the service and the test that we offer is that there is still human intervention,” Danica Tuliao, senior exams marketing manager at British Council Philippines, said in an interview during the organization’s annual exams partner gathering.

“In our speaking test, we have a live human examiner that test takers speak with because that’s actually the best measure of how you communicate with people,” she added.

Ms. Tuliao said the English language assessment landscape locally has become increasingly competitive in recent years, with providers offering specialized examinations for industries such as healthcare, as well as fully AI-based tests that do not require interaction with a human examiner.

Despite these developments, she said IELTS continues to adopt a hybrid approach by integrating AI features while preserving human assessment in key components of the examination process.

“We really feel strongly that the IELTS (approach) can definitely address the purpose of each test taker and help them achieve their dreams and goals,” Ms. Tuliao said in mixed English and Filipino.

The British Council has incorporated AI-powered tools into its IELTS Ready Premium preparation platform, allowing test takers to track their progress and receive automated support while preparing for the examination.

The global English proficiency testing market is estimated at $3.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $5.5 billion by 2032, according to market research firm Metastat.

This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% between 2025 and 2032.

Ms. Tuliao said English language assessments such as IELTS remain crucial for individuals seeking opportunities overseas, particularly for studying, working, and migrating to countries that require proof of English proficiency.

Different institutions, professions, and countries impose varying score requirements depending on the level of English language competency required. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

On Thursday, the Pasig City Regional Trial Court Branch 152 issued a 20-day temporary restraining order against the implementation of Wage Order No. 27, which granted a P85 daily minimum wage increase for private-sector workers in Metro Manila.

The order suspends the first tranche of P60, which took effect on July 25, to be followed by an additional P25 in January 2027.

Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino said employees who have already received the initial wage increase will not be required to refund the amount.

“The workers already have a vested right, so that should not be returned… because at the time it was received, there was no order from the National Wages and Productivity Commission that it was suspended,” Mr. Tolentino said in a statement in Filipino.

He said the Office of the Solicitor General will lead the legal efforts and represent the national wage commission in the court proceedings.

The legal challenge was initiated by two construction firms who argued that the “abrupt” mandated increase would be entirely absorbed by their budgets, leading to sustained deficits and potential job cuts.

Sarah Buena S. Mirasol, chairperson of the NCR wage board, maintained that the wage board operated within its legal mandate in issuing the wage hike.

She added that the plaintiffs should have exhausted administrative remedies by appealing to the national commission before seeking judicial intervention.

“We are confident of the fact that we followed due process, and we follow the process as provided in the guidelines for the minimum wage fixing,” Ms. Mirasol said.

She added that any request for a restraining order should demonstrate “harm to all minimum wage earners rather than a specific sector.”

The government plans to argue for the hike’s validity in the upcoming August 3 hearing. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking

LOWER oil prices and increased consumer spending as classes reopened helped Philippine business sentiment recover in June after three straight months in negative territory, a survey by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

The BSP’s monthly business expectations survey (BES) yielded a 0% current-month confidence index (CI) in June, improving from the -25.2% in May.

A neutral or zero CI shows that optimistic and pessimistic respondents are nearly equal in number. A positive CI shows that more respondents are optimistic than pessimistic, while a negative CI shows otherwise.

“Philippine business sentiment improved in June as firms expected lower oil prices and energy costs to support increased business activity during the period, results of the latest Business Expectation Survey show,” the central bank said in a statement on Friday.

“BES data also show firms anticipated a boost in consumer spending following the reopening of schools during the month.”

The survey also showed businesses were more optimistic for the third quarter and the next 12 months.

For the next three months, firms’ CI stood at 18.8%, jumping from the 0.6% recorded in May, amid optimism that was driven by expectations of higher household consumption and easing inflation pressures.

Meanwhile, their CI for the year ahead rose to 42.4% in June from 27.8% in May as they anticipate stronger demand for goods and services among consumers, as well as better local and global economic conditions amid hopes of a resolution to the Middle East war.

However, businesses surveyed still expect inflation to remain above the BSP’s 4% ceiling, with their year-ahead projection at 5.6%. Still, this was slower than their 5.9% estimate in May.

“Businesses that expect higher inflation were concerned about higher energy cost and supply constraints, the ongoing Middle East conflict, (and) peso depreciation,” the central bank said.

Inflation as of June averaged 4.8% as high oil prices and spillovers to other key commodities continued to drive the headline print past the BSP’s tolerance range.

The central bank expects inflation to average 6.4% this year.

TIGHTER FINANCIAL CONDITIONS
Meanwhile, Philippine firms see tightening financial conditions but slightly easing credit access, citing stiff domestic competition, insufficient demand, and financial concerns.

Businesses’ financial condition index, which gauges their general cash position considering the level of cash and other cash items and repayment terms on loans, worsened to -26.8% in June from -25.7% in May.

On the other hand, their credit access index improved month on month to -5.7% from -7.3%. This refers to the firm’s external environment, such as the availability of credit in the banking system and other financial institutions.

Firms’ average capacity utilization for the industry and construction sectors also climbed to 73.9% in June from 70.5% last month.

Meanwhile, Philippine businesses’ employment outlook index fell to 1.8% from 11.9% for the next three months, and to 20.2% from 20.4% for the coming year.

However, the survey showed that more firms were willing to expand, with 20.4% saying they are looking to boost operations over the next quarter from 9.7% in May. For the year ahead, 18.7% expressed their intent to expand, higher than the 11.8% a month ago.

“Overall, the favorable business outlook could support economic growth for 2027,” the central bank said.

The BSP surveyed 515 firms nationwide, with 193 coming from the National Capital Region (NCR) and 322 from areas outside NCR, from June 5-30.

Chief Commercial Officer of DITO Telecommunity Adel A. Tamano said the partnership with the multinational convenience store chain is anchored on their shared commitment to innovation, customer value, and growth.

“By combining our strengths, we aim to create more meaningful experiences for Filipino consumers while opening new opportunities that will benefit both organizations,” Mr. Tamano said in a statement released on Thursday.

“We look forward to building a partnership that reflects our shared vision of delivering greater choice, convenience, and value to the communities we serve,” he added.

Under the partnership, customers can now purchase DITO Starter Packs — which include a SIM card preloaded with up to 25 gigabytes of bonus data, among other inclusions — at more than 200 Lawson stores in Metro Manila.

The initiative makes reliable connectivity more accessible while providing greater convenience and value to Filipinos, according to Tsunaka Nakanishi, vice-president of Lawson Philippines.

DITO said the collaboration marks another milestone in the company’s continued expansion of its retail footprint while empowering Filipinos with accessible, high-quality digital connectivity. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

The campaign celebrates “self-expression and modern living by helping today’s generation build a dynamic lifestyle that fits right into their routines,” the company said in a statement released Thursday.

Reflecting the brand’s youthful character is Filipino actor Donny Pangilinan, who serves as Simplus’ ambassador.

The company said his personable and relatable personality inspires young adults to embrace independence and build comfortable, functional homes.

As part of the anniversary celebration, Simplus participated as an official sponsor of Circus Music Festival 8 in Pasig City, where it showcased its products through an interactive booth in partnership with Automatic Centre.

The company also hosted a product experience event for content creators featuring its kitchen, personal care, and home living appliances.

Separately, Simplus partnered with the National Book Store Foundation, Inc. to donate school supplies, classroom materials, and select home appliances to Capt. H. Francisco Elementary School-Annex in Taguig City to support students ahead of the new school year.

The company is also holding an online campaign in which participants can share their “Live Young” moments using Simplus products for a chance to receive anniversary gift packages. — Edg Adrian A. Eva

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PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Monday asked Congress to pass a package of tax measures, including broader income tax exemptions for low- and middle-income earners and tax exemptions for micro, small, and medium enterprises, as he laid out his administration’s legislative priorities for the remainder of his term.   

In his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), Mr. Marcos also sought congressional approval of measures updating the country’s tax system, alongside bills that would amend the National Building Code, modernize the 25-year-old Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and establish a law to make rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems more accessible to households.

“To ensure the continued progress of the middle class amidst the lingering effects of the crisis, we will pursue tax relief measures that promote growth, generate revenue and advance equity toward socioeconomic sustainability,” he said in his speech that lasted an hour and 26 minutes.

Mr. Marcos said that the proposed tax reforms aim to protect the purchasing power of Filipinos who have felt the brunt of global economic volatility.

He called for the expansion of the current income tax framework to include more workers in the tax-exempt bracket.

“As a unique protection for them and so they can benefit more from their hard-earned income, I call on Congress to pass the law that will provide partial relief for our tax payments,” Mr. Marcos said.

“First, let us expand the exemption for income tax. Let us increase the number of workers who will be exempt from taxes on their income. We will include those earning not more than P350,000 per year,” he said.

This move would be accompanied by reduction in the income tax rates for other workers to ensure a fairer distribution of the tax burden.

He proposed a “one-time tax abatement” for microentrepreneurs to provide relief to those whose earnings have suffered during the recent period of economic hardship.

“Second, small businesses will no longer be subjected to the minimum corporate income tax,” he said.

The President pushed for a comprehensive tax amnesty covering unpaid income, estate, donor’s, and value-added taxes, including the waiver of associated penalties.

The fiscal space for these reforms is being carved out through a rigorous anti-corruption campaign, particularly within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Mr. Marcos said that the Office of the Ombudsman is close to filing cases against his cousin and former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez in relation to the flood control corruption scandal.

“Masakit man sa akin ito ngunit kailangan nating gawin ang tama. Hindi ako Pangulo ng aking pamilya. Hindi ako Pangulo ng aking kaibigan. Ako ay Pangulo ng Pilipinas (Painful as it is for me, but we have to do what is right. I am not the President of my family. I am not the President of my friends. I am the President of the Philippines),” he said.

In a statement on Monday, Mr. Romualdez said he has done nothing illegal and is ready to prove it.

AMENDMENTS TO EPIRA SOUGHT
Also, Mr. Marcos called on lawmakers to approve a bill removing system loss charges from consumers’ electricity bills, saying the measure would complement the administration’s planned tax relief package by lowering electricity costs for households and businesses.

“It is not the fault of consumers why there are system losses. So, it is not right that consumers have to pay for this. Therefore, we, the people, request — no, we demand for the immediate amendment of the EPIRA (Electric Power Industry Reform Act), and to prohibit charging system loss against consumers including the value-added tax thereon,” he said in Filipino, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.

Mr. Marcos also pushed for the passage of the  “Sariling Kuryente” Act to make the installation of rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems in homes “simple, easy, and affordable.”

The President said the government would continue directing funds to education, healthcare, food security and infrastructure, citing savings from its campaign against corruption, including irregular flood control projects.

Mr. Marcos reiterated support for the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, saying its implementation would be “humane, affordable and just.”

He also reaffirmed the government’s target of having electric vehicles (EV) account for half of all vehicles in the country by 2040 while supporting investments across the EV value chain, including vehicle assembly, battery manufacturing and related parts.

He also announced that the 12 stations of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 7 will open by next year. “After nearly three decades, there will be a new MRT line extending to Sacred Heart, Quezon City, from North Avenue. And someday, it will reach all the way to San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan,” he added.

Mr. Marcos also touted the planned Pax Silica industrial hub, which he says would “bring quality jobs to our people, accelerate our industrial competitiveness and revitalize our economy.”

“Let us continue the work that we have started, to make the Philippines the country that Filipinos deserve,” the President said.

‘CHALLENGE IS EXECUTION’
Meanwhile, Management Association of the Philippines President Donald Patrick L. Lim said the group is encouraged by Mr. Marcos’ strong emphasis on key priorities such as job creation, food security, affordable energy, and support for small businesses, among others

“The challenge now is execution. Businesses are looking for clear implementation timelines, policy consistency, and close collaboration between government and the private sector. We hope Congress will quickly translate these priorities into legislation where needed, while the Executive ensures that programs are implemented efficiently and their benefits are felt by ordinary Filipinos,” Mr. Lim said in a Viber message.

Ederson DT. Tapia, a political science professor at the University of Makati, told BusinessWorld that Mr. Marcos’ SONA was ambitious and clearly responsive to the immediate concerns of ordinary Filipinos.

“However, many of the commitments were presented as programs rather than measurable reforms. The major test is implementation: clear timelines, funding, accountable agencies and concrete outcomes,” Mr. Tapia said.

“The speech was also notable for what it avoided: impeachment, political dynasties, human rights, budget insertions and deeper institutional reforms. In this sense, it was strong on assistance and aspiration, but less complete on structural political change,” he added.

Federation of Philippine Industries Chairperson Elizabeth H. Lee welcomed the President’s directive to lower power costs, saying it is “essential to placing Philippine manufacturing on equal footing with our ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) peers.”

“Paired with long-term energy security — through nuclear exploration, natural gas, hydrogen, and renewables — these reforms can build true industrial resilience,” she said in a Viber message.

Thousands of protesters from labor, teachers, youth, urban poor and other sectoral groups marched along Commonwealth Avenue for the people’s SONA, presenting what they described as the country’s “true state of the nation” ahead of the President’s speech.

The demonstrators called for higher wages, increased funding for education and social services and greater government accountability, while criticizing the administration over corruption, poverty, militarization and foreign influence. — with Beatriz Marie D. Cruz and Kaizzer Angela Marie V. Manuba

Called the Alliance of Truthful Information and Narratives on the West Philippine Sea (ATIN WPS), the effort taps Filipino fishermen in recognition of their direct connection to developments in the disputed waters, being among the most affected by Chinese incursions in the area.

BFAR launched the initiative in a ceremony that gathered over 80 fisherfolk leaders from across the country, along with leaders from BFAR, the Local Government of Zambales, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the National Security Council (NSC), and other partner institutions. Together, they formed a united front to strengthen the role of coastal communities in promoting truth, maritime awareness, and responsible information sharing.

In remarks during the launch, BFAR National Director Elizer S. Salilig underscored the indispensable role of Filipino fisherfolk in asserting the country’s claim to the West Philippine Sea in the face of escalating tensions.

“Our fisherfolk navigate the West Philippine Sea every day, ensuring our food security while anchoring our nation’s presence in these tense waters. Through ATIN WPS, we recognize their role as the true frontline guardians of our sea,” said Mr. Salilig.

“By equipping them with accurate knowledge and empowering them to counter misinformation, we are transforming our fishing communities into credible voices of truth. This is a vital step in safeguarding not only our marine resources, but the integrity of our national narrative,” he added.

National Security Council Director Romeo Racadio, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of protecting the information space alongside the country’s maritime domain.

“Just as crucial as protecting our territory, we must protect the truth. Misinformation and disinformation pose significant challenges to the nation’s interests, and fact-based narratives are essential in fostering public understanding of the West Philippine Sea. This is where our fisherfolk play a key role,” said Mr. Racadio.

As part of ATIN WPS, fisherfolk underwent technical training that sought to equip them with factual, evidence-based, and legally grounded knowledge on the West Philippine Sea, enabling them to counter misinformation and disinformation as trusted sources in their respective communities.

The training included lectures on the legal and historical foundations of the West Philippine Sea, the 2016 Arbitral Award that favored the Philippines’ claims against China, maritime entitlements, responsible conduct at sea, and practical approaches to identifying and addressing misinformation and disinformation.

It highlighted the important role that fisherfolk play in ensuring that accurate and verified information reaches coastal communities across the country.

ATIN WPS is part of the Philippines’ whole-of-nation approach to protecting the West Philippine Sea by ensuring that coastal communities are active partners in advancing truthful narratives.

The initiative is supported by the United States Embassy Manila’s Fish Right Project, demonstrating a shared commitment with BFAR to strengthen community engagement, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage the responsible use of accurate information about the West Philippine Sea.

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Speakers at the rally accused the administration of failing to address rising living costs, inadequate social services, and alleged corruption, while calling for greater government accountability.

Kabataan Party-list representative Renee Louise Co said poverty persisted because government resources were not being used to improve public services.

“We are not poor by accident. We are poor because public funds are squandered instead of being used for essential social services,” she said in Filipino during the program.

She added that more aspects of public life had been privatized while the prices of basic commodities continued to increase.

“We are poor because basic services remain underfunded while more aspects of our lives are privatized. At the same time, the prices of food, meat, and other basic necessities continue to rise,” she said in Filipino.

Ms. Co also criticized the government’s foreign policy, saying it prioritized foreign interests over those of Filipinos. “Is this really for so-called global development? No! It serves the political, economic, and military interests of the United States in Southeast Asia,” she said.

GABRIELA Party-list Rep. Sarah Jane I. Elago said the rising prices of essential goods and limited access to jobs, housing, and healthcare reflected what she described as the government’s failure to meet the needs of ordinary Filipinos.

“The prices of rice, fuel, and electricity continue to rise. There is a shortage of jobs, housing, and basic social services,” she said in Filipino.

Ms. Elago said poor families, farmers, fisherfolk, and workers continued to bear the burden of economic hardship.

“Poor families are sinking deeper into debt because they cannot even afford enough food. Farmers are burdened with debt, fisherfolk lack the capital to provide for their families, and ordinary Filipinos are driven into debt because they cannot afford hospital bills and medicines.”

She urged the government to lower the prices of basic goods, abolish the value-added tax (VAT), increase wages, and expand support for agriculture and livelihood. “We are demanding action on the people’s long-standing calls that the government has failed to address.”

ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. Antonio L. Tinio questioned the government’s assertion that funding constraints had limited investments in public services, arguing that corruption had diverted resources intended for education, healthcare, and housing.

“The government says it has no money for classrooms. The government says it has no money for hospitals, housing, and educational supplies. Do you believe that?” he asked the crowd in Filipino, to which the crowd answered “No.”

Mr. Tinio alleged that “not just billions but trillions of pesos” had been lost through flood control scams and criticized what he described as selective anti-corruption efforts.

“Any anti-corruption campaign will remain selective, unjust, and lacking in credibility if those allegedly involved in the flood control scandals are not held accountable all the way up to Malacañang,” he said.

The People’s SONA is held annually by progressive organizations as an alternative assessment of the country’s conditions. Organizers this year called for higher wages, greater public spending on education, healthcare, and housing, stronger support for farmers and fisherfolk, and accountability for alleged corruption in government. — Kaizzer Angela Marie V. Manuba

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) sees only a “small chance” of more aggressive monetary policy tightening this year, despite renewed volatility and expectations of a second-half economic recovery.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. said they could be more aggressive in raising the key policy rate, potentially with a larger 50-basis-point (bp) move, amid fresh and emerging threats to inflation.

“May chance naman pero baka maliit na chance (There’s a chance but it could be small),” Mr. Remolona told reporters on the sidelines of a BSP event on Tuesday.

The central bank governor noted that the new tax reforms pushed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday may have an impact on the country’s inflation.

“We’re still estimating it,” he said in Filipino. “But there is (an impact). The major impact will be in 2027, with a smaller one in 2028.”

Mr. Marcos called on the Congress to pass several tax measures, including raising the threshold for income tax exemptions for low- and middle-income earners and tax breaks for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

PESO
Meanwhile, Mr. Remolona also noted that the peso’s recent slump to a new-record low could stoke inflation as it pushes import costs higher.

Soaring oil prices amid renewed conflict in the Middle East dragged the peso to a fresh low of P61.847 against the greenback on Friday, down 9.7 centavos to break its previous record-low of P61.75 on Thursday.

However, Mr. Remolona said the latest record low peso-dollar exchange rate is a “misleading number” as other currencies also suffered from the greenback’s strength last week.

“But that’s a misleading number because exchange rates were moving, right? You’re looking only at peso-dollar, right?” he said. “But the rest of the world has been, their currencies have been weakening against the US dollar.”

Still, Mr. Remolona noted that the BSP intervened very minimally in the foreign exchange market.

“When it’s a strong dollar, we limit intervention to just maintain orderly markets. Because if we intervene against a strong dollar, we’re just helping the rest of the world get their dollars,” Mr. Remolona said.

“Binibigyan natin sila ng dollars. So wala tayong laban sa ganon. Uubusin lang natin yung dollars natin. (We give them dollars. So we can’t compete with that. We will just use up our dollars),” he added.

The market sees the local unit testing new lows this week as rising oil costs fuel inflation concerns.

The BSP chief’s policy outlook also came as he reaffirmed their projection that the economy would rebound by the latter half of the year despite fresh inflationary threats.

As the first digital-only bank in the Philippines licensed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Tonik continues to evolve alongside the changing expectations of digital banking users. With customer engagement activities becoming increasingly diverse, the bank recognized the importance of having a more effective approach to review customer interactions and support continuous improvements in its operations.