In a virtual press briefing on Friday, Aug. 14, Atty. Paul Lawrence Lim, Duterte’s legal counsel in the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) grave threats cases, said the Vice President’s camp had filed a motion to quash, emphasizing the need for oral arguments because of the “far-reaching” consequences of the cases.

The position of Duterte’s camp is based on lack of jurisdiction, with Lim arguing that a regular court cannot hear a criminal case against a sitting Vice President who is an impeachable officer.

“Maaaring kasuhan pero hindi habang nakaupo (Can be charged, but not while in office),” Lim said, explaining the camp’s position that an impeachable official may be criminally prosecuted after leaving office.

Motion to quash

Duterte’s camp has filed a motion to quash the criminal cases before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court, asking that the charges be dismissed on jurisdictional grounds.

Lim said the defense wants the court to allow both the prosecution and defense to present oral arguments before it rules on the motion.

He stressed that the issue goes beyond Duterte’s individual case because it could establish a precedent concerning other officials who are subject to impeachment.

“If a sitting Vice President may be indicted and prosecuted, then other incumbent impeachable officers such as the Ombudsman, members of the Constitutional Commissions, Supreme Court justices, and even the President, may also be indicted and prosecuted,” Lim said.

Under the Constitution, the President, Vice President, members of the Supreme Court, members of the Constitutional Commissions, and the Ombudsman are impeachable officers, Lim explained.

Defense warns of precedent for impeachable officials

Lim said allowing the criminal prosecution of a sitting Vice President could potentially “open the floodgates” for criminal cases against other impeachable officials.

Among those who could be affected, he said, are the President, Ombudsman, members of the Constitutional Commissions, and members of the Supreme Court.

“It’s not only the VP who is an impeachable officer,” Lim said.

Duterte’s camp described the issue as one with “very far-reaching and serious” consequences, saying it should be thoroughly considered by the court.

Lim emphasized that the defense is not simply seeking relief for Duterte but is raising what it considers a significant constitutional question involving the separation of the impeachment process and criminal prosecution.

What happens if court issues arrest warrant

Lim was also asked whether Duterte would voluntarily surrender if the court rejects her motion to quash and subsequently issues an arrest warrant.

He did not disclose the defense’s specific next legal move, saying the legal team is prepared to pursue the available remedies.

“There are possible remedies that we can use,” Lim said, adding that the question is which legal remedy the defense would ultimately use.

The issue of a possible arrest warrant has already been raised in relation to Duterte’s motion to quash and the defense’s request for deferment of proceedings.

Lim said Duterte remains in good spirits and is prepared to face the legal proceedings.

“She’s ready to confront the legal proceedings,” he said, adding that the Vice President wanted to clear her name.

DOJ-filed grave threats cases

The grave threats cases were filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.

Duterte’s legal team has challenged the cases through the motion to quash, arguing that the court lacks jurisdiction over the Vice President while she remains in office.

The prosecution and defense are expected to present their respective positions on the motion, which could determine whether the criminal proceedings will proceed to the next stage.

If the motion to quash is granted, the cases could be dismissed. If it is denied, the cases could proceed to arraignment and, eventually, trial, subject to further legal remedies available to the defense.

Lim said the defense is prepared for either outcome and stressed that its position should not be interpreted as an argument that impeachable officials are permanently immune from criminal prosecution.

Rather, Lim said the argument concerns the proper timing and jurisdiction for criminal proceedings involving a sitting impeachable officer.

The defense said the matter ultimately involves determining what the law permits while an official remains in office.

Lim noted that the court’s ruling on Duterte’s motion to quash could have implications beyond the grave threats cases, particularly on how criminal prosecution may be pursued against sitting impeachable officials. 

RELATED STORY: 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/14/duterte-camp-seeks-oral-arguments-on-motion-to-quash-grave-threats-cases

A Metro Manila congressman is espousing science-based solutions coupled with disciplined waste disposal to finally put an end to perennial flooding in the country’s low-lying communities. 

Parañaque City 2nd district Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan said that while band-aid fixes can instantly mitigate flooding, local government officials should also strictly impose laws on proper waste disposal and segregation, and cooperate with the national government in finding science-based solutions to the longstanding problem of flooding. 

“May short-term solutions tayo (We have short-term solutions), we bring in the backhoes, the mobile pumping stations, and the dredgers to clear the creeks. But the long-term solution is science-based urban planning and discipline,” said Yamsuan in a recent online interview.

Local government units (LGUs) should also address the problem of informal settlements in their respective communities, he said. 

Yamsuan’s home city of Parañaque has consistently suffered from severe flooding during heavy downpours for over a decade. 

While it is easy to blame people for illegally dumping their trash on the streets and waterways, he says LGUs should also implement programs that would make it easy and accessible to properly get rid of one's garbage. 

For instance, Yamsuan said LGUs can place garbage bins with waste segregation containers  in strategic areas where people can easily bring and dispose of their trash. 

This system should be accompanied by the strict enforcement of penalties for violating laws and local ordinances on proper waste disposal, said the former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) assistant secretary.

“Leadership should be shown by way of programs that people will really follow. For example, in Parañaque, if you are the local government, why not put trash bins in strategic places where people can go to properly dispose of their garbage?” Yamsuan said. 

Yamsuan has been regularly coordinating with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon o to ease flooding in low-lying areas of Parañaque’s 2nd district, where floodwaters have reached waist-deep in the past few days as a result of the heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon or "Habagat".

Dizon has sent equipment such as backhoes and mobile water pumping stations to help floods subside quickly in Parañaque’s inundated communities. 

On top of conducting declogging and dredging operations, Dizon had also earlier pledged to begin the implementation of a flood interceptor project along Dr. Santos Avenue, where flooding usually occurs. 

Dizon said he will also propose funding under the 2027 national budget for the upgrading of old dikes in the city and the construction of detention basins beneath basketball courts and open spaces, similar to projects implemented in Manila and Quezon City.

Police Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP chief, said police personnel should set an example in maintaining clean workplaces and communities, stressing that proper waste disposal should start within police offices and units.

“As law enforcers, police personnel are expected to set good examples to the people we serve, and in this particular case, the proper waste management and segregation,” Nartatez said.

The PNP said the directive covers police offices and units down to precincts, police stations, and municipal and city stations. Commanders were told to ensure the use of separate bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.

The PNP said the move supports President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s call for stronger measures on waste management in communities.

Marcos recently described the country as appearing to face a critical garbage situation during an inspection of a cleanup operation of accumulated trash along the reclaimed portion of Manila Bay in front of Baclaran Church on Aug. 12.

The garbage problem has prompted calls for more decisive action and closer coordination among government agencies. Authorities have also pushed for more systematic waste disposal measures that reach communities and encourage residents to observe proper waste management.

For his part, Nartatez said the PNP would assist local government units in implementing waste disposal regulations, particularly local ordinances.

“We, in the PNP, are ready to provide assistance to the local government units in enforcing ordinances regarding waste disposal,” he said.

Police personnel will also continue to take part in local efforts to keep public areas clean, according to Nartatez. He said the PNP supports the government’s campaign to improve waste disposal practices and maintain cleanliness in communities.

It is powered by a Kirin 9030S, HUAWEI’s own in-house chip. It gives the Pura 90s Pro Max that extra “oomph” in speed and power, but more importantly for this device, it is also the heart of its highly impressive imaging processing capabilities.

The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max’s camera is very good, like really good. It captures colors that are very natural, with some touch ups that don't make the image feel too much. The shadows and blacks are very well textured, giving every image depth and a level of crispness that puts the max in making you feel like a pro in photography. Though sometimes, the device removes too much of the shadows, brightening the image a bit. Sometimes shadows are needed to compose images. So, if you’re after that, you may need to apply some tweaking before snapping.

The telephoto lens is so good that it’s ridiculous. Though, by gut feeling alone, I feel the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro I’ve reviewed a couple of months ago to have a slightly better camera option for its flexibility to shoot long distances and up close. The colors felt much more balanced as well. But this isn’t throwing shade at the Pura 90s Pro Max, the 200MP telephoto lens gives it a significant edge in capturing distant images. The size of its sensors itself is a flex of its own photography prowess. So, in short, the Pura 90s Pro Max is a solid choice if you will be taking photography as a serious hobby.

Also, it should add to your confidence to take the Pura 90s Pro Max out in the open to capture that perfect photo, it is IP68 and IP69, making it resistant to water.

The build quality is excellent. While it is lightweight, there is a noticeable heft in the upper portion of the device, which is understandable given the massive camera setup. HUAWEI is also cooking with the color options. The Orange Ocean is beautiful to look at, almost like a tropical sunset. The unit we received for review was the Purple Blaze, which gave me the impression of a sunrise. Or a sunset. Depends on your mood.

What I especially like about the colors and the build, is that you don’t have to cover it all up and worry how sturdy it is. We’ve been testing HUAWEI phones for over a decade now, and the technology they’ve developed in between those years have been pure stone cold stunners. Of course, we’re talking about the Kunlun Glass. When this was introduced to us a couple of years back, HUAWEI executives confidently demoed the units themselves, dropping it multiple times without a case and in nearly every angle. This still rings true for the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max. The improved Kunlun Glass feels stronger than ever. And it is this toughness that gives me the confidence to carry this phone without a case, allowing me to boast those beautiful covers.

Perhaps, the criticism for HUAWEI devices isn’t even their fault. It is the lack of Google apps and Play Store, which makes downloading additional features that you need a bit tricker, especially if you’re new to the HUAWEI ecosystem. Thankfully, HUAWEI’s own AppGallery is continuously evolving and improving. You can download the Google apps you need but it goes through a middleman and if you’re chill about that, then you’ve got nothing to worry about. AppGallery is expanding big enough to cover necessary apps in the country, such as Grab, GCash, Maya, and Angkas, among many other apps.

However, the AppGallery has a lot of ads and a pop-up that recommends you to download a list of apps. I can almost ignore the former, since there are many apps out there that do exactly this, and yes, it is a bit annoying. But the pop-up that points you to check out certain apps is a bit too much in my book. I would have preferred something less intrusive that allowed me to freely explore the kinds of apps I would want on my own.

The HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max gets our own certification of approval. It is a phone you’d want if you’re eager to set out in the world and explore with photography. The only real caveat is if Google apps are that important to you, then there are only a few compromises in that regard. Otherwise, the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max is an easy thing to recommend to tech enthusiasts, phone lovers, and those seeking to upgrade and hoping to find something new and interesting.

Sixty employees of the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) from across the country have completed the Field Investigation Course (FIC), becoming its first batch of graduates.

The graduation ceremony for FIC Class 01 SIGHARI, or “Serbisyong may Integridad, Gabay sa Hustisya, Abilidad at Responsableng Imbestigasyon,” was held at the B Hotel in Quezon City on Aug. 10.

During the six-week course, the participants underwent training in surveillance and casing, interviewing, crime-scene investigation, evidence handling, forensic disciplines, cybercrime investigation, firearm proficiency, and fact-finding.

They also studied corruption offenses, procurement laws, fraud auditing, lifestyle checks, money laundering, asset tracing, infrastructure analysis, rules of procedure, legal draftsmanship, and first aid.

In a video message, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla called on the 60 graduates to apply what they learned to strengthen investigations through evidence.

“The work you have trained for does not stay inside the classroom. It happens in the field. It happens where the facts are. It happens where public money is spent and where public trust is either upheld or betrayed,” he said.

“Remember this: corruption does not always leave obvious fingerprints. Sometimes it hides behind paperwork. Sometimes it hides behind procedures. Sometimes it hides in plain sight. Your job is to find the truth. Not the convenient truth. Not the popular truth. But the truth supported by evidence.”

Remulla underscored the crucial role of investigative work in the OMB’s accountability mandate, particularly in its ongoing investigations into infrastructure and flood-control projects.

“These are complex cases involving billions of pesos in public funds. They require investigators who are meticulous, independent, and guided only by the law,” he said.

Remulla said the same principles apply whether a case involves a high-ranking official or a local employee.

“The law does not recognize influence. The law recognizes facts,” he stressed.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Friday, Aug. 14, PERC said consolidated net income rose to ₱498 million in the six months of the year from ₱464 million in the same period a year earlier.

The growth was driven by an 8.1 percent gain in consolidated revenues, which reached ₱2.16 billion compared with the prior-year period.

Electricity generation remained the primary engine of top-line growth. Electricity sales rose 11.8 percent to ₱1.78 billion as new clean energy assets joined the grid. Key project additions included extra wind turbines at the company’s Nabas-2 project, the second phase of the Limbauan Solar Power Project, and initial contributions from the Bugallon Solar Power Project.

The company's upstream segment also contributed positively to first-half performance. Higher global crude oil benchmarks lifted oil revenues by 23.3 percent to ₱303 million.

Operational momentum accelerated sharply in the second quarter. Consolidated net income for the April-to-June period surged 40.4 percent year-on-year to ₱257 million, propelled by robust quarterly revenues. Net income attributable to the parent company expanded 74.6 percent to ₱188 million for the quarter.

Higher earnings came despite mounting debt service costs tied to aggressive capital expenditure. Interest expenses climbed 17.8 percent to ₱355 million during the six-month period as PetroEnergy secured new borrowings for project development against a backdrop of elevated market interest rates. Meanwhile, cost of sales edged up 1.2 percent to ₱1.13 billion, helped by favorable crude oil inventory movements.

PetroEnergy’s balance sheet expanded alongside its operational footprint. Total consolidated assets grew 6.7 percent year-on-year to ₱25.76 billion as of June 30, underscoring ongoing capital investment in renewable power installations. Equity attributable to parent shareholders rose 3.9 percent to ₱8.64 billion, lifting book value per share to ₱15.20 from ₱14.63 a year earlier.

Management reiterated its strategy to pursue disciplined expansion across its clean energy and upstream portfolios, focusing on integrating wind, solar, and battery energy storage assets to drive long-term earnings growth. (Gabriell Christel Galang)

Despite the hulking presence of Serbian giant Boban Marjanovic and a potent core of imports, Strong Group struggled heavily against the South Koreans who managed to break the game wide open with a 43-22 lead in the second frame.

From there, the Philippine-based club tried to cut the deficit but eventually failed as Korea, represented by Ethan Alvano and the Wonju DB Promy, maintained its fine form and even hiked the insurmountable lead in the final quarter.

Strong Group, on the other hand, took its first taste of defeat after a 16-game winning streak that also produced back-to-back championships since joining the competition in 2024.

Up next for the Charles Tiu-mentored crew is Japan this Saturday, Aug. 15, at the same venue, while Group A leader South Korea battles host Chinese Taipei-Blue.

Tajuan Agee topscored for SGA with 21 points on top of 10 rebounds, three assists, and one steal, while Puerto Rican reinforcer Isaiah Piñeiro and Malick Diouf backed him with 13 and 10 points, respectively.

Marjanovic, a former Serbia national team player who played in different NBA teams, pulled off six points and one rebound in his SGA debut. William Navarro, Derek Fenner, and Titing Manalili combined for 22 points in a losing cause.

Rayshaun Hammonds and Filipino-American Alvano steered the Korea side with 25 and 21 points, respectively.

The Trump administration has accused the Philippines of playing a key role in a “shadow transshipment network” that allows China to evade tariffs on products entering the United States (US).

In a report titled “The Great Transshipment Scam,” the White House classified the Philippines under the third tier, referred to as “small, opportunistic Chinese targets” of the alleged transshipment network led by China.

The third tier covers smaller economies with lower absolute transshipment volumes but “specific weak-link advantages,” including low-cost labor, free zones, port or border access, or bonded warehousing.

It also includes economies with niche assembly capacity, preferential US access, or limited customs enforcement capacity, making them “attractive opportunistic targets” for China-linked rerouting.

Apart from the Philippines, 25 other economies are also under the third tier, such as Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, Switzerland, and United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The White House defines the shadow transshipment network as a distributed system of finishing hubs and processing corridors that enables China to evade higher US tariffs.

The first tier of this network covers economies that possess large absolute volumes of China-linked goods, including Canada, Israel, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union (EU).

Meanwhile, the second tier points to economies with significant transshipment volumes combined with deeper integration into China-linked supply chains, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Based on the report, the core role of the Philippines in the transshipment network includes light assembly, relabeling, and re-export of China-linked goods.

The report noted that exporters from higher-tariff jurisdictions such as China are taking advantage of differences in US tariff implementation across countries to route goods through lower-tariff jurisdictions before entering the American market.

Essentially, Chinese exporters are reportedly sending products that would otherwise be subject to higher tariffs to third countries with lower tariffs, where they would then be relabeled or repackaged to create the appearance that they were not produced in China.

On average, US tariffs on Chinese exports are estimated at around 50 percent. In comparison, tariffs imposed on Philippine goods are significantly lower at 12.5 percent.

Citing analysis from the government and private sector, the White House said the US loses between $40 billion and as much as $303 billion in value due to these illegal transshipment flows.

“This is America’s message to the shadow transshipment network—our warning to the world: stop evading and avoiding the Trump tariffs through illegal transshipment,” the White House said in the report.

“Those who continue will be caught. Those who cooperate will be treated as partners in restoring a fair and honest trading system,” it added.

At present, the Philippines is in close coordination with the US as it looks to secure a possible removal of the 12.5 percent tariff imposed on its exports.

The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) earlier imposed a 12.5-percent tariff on the Philippines after it determined that the country had failed to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on imports made with forced labor.

This is higher than the initial 10-percent tariff, which was implemented following the US Supreme Court’s decision to strike down the Trump administration’s so-called reciprocal tariffs.

A preliminary assessment by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) showed that around 34 percent of the country’s exports to the US are covered by the USTR’s 12.5-percent duty.

In an Aug. 13 commentary, BMI noted that the tax collection goal for the upcoming fiscal year “appears ambitious at first glance,” pointing to the assumption of a double-digit increase in VAT haul compared to the ₱762.4 billion target set for the current year.

According to BMI, the target is especially steep given the lack of significant new reforms to support such growth.

“While easing inflation and higher Metro Manila minimum wages—which will reportedly benefit over 1.1 million workers—should support consumption and VAT collections in 2027, we doubt that this alone will be sufficient to hit the target,” BMI said.

Next year’s revenue goals form part of a broader fiscal strategy embedded in the proposed record ₱7.2 trillion budget submitted to Congress by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The budget proposal, up 6.6 percent from the current ₱6.793 trillion allocation, “supports continued fiscal consolidation through spending restraint and selected tax reforms.” However, BMI noted that the pace of narrowing the persistent fiscal deficit remains “modest.”

Compared to earlier projections, the 2026 total revenue target has been revised downward to ₱4.81 trillion from ₱4.98 trillion. A similar downward revision applies to 2027, with the target lowered to ₱5.21 trillion from ₱5.37 trillion.

Achieving these targets presents a significant challenge given BMI’s more conservative economic outlook compared to that of Philippine economic managers.

“Revenue targets may prove difficult to achieve even after new tax reforms, particularly as we forecast GDP growth of 4.9 percent in 2027, below the government’s 5 to 6 percent” assumption outlined in the latest budget documents.

While the government is pushing new measures—such as higher excise taxes on sweetened beverages, tobacco products, alcohol, and automobiles—BMI estimates these will yield a net revenue gain of only “₱47.9 billion annually over 2027–2030.”

Beyond revenue targets, the 2027 budget proposal reflects a major shift in national priorities toward infrastructure development. BMI observed that while social services face a 5.5 percent budget cut, “economic services receive the largest increase in the 2027 budget, largely reflecting the resumption of infrastructure spending and flood-control projects.”

This pivot toward infrastructure coincides with a steadily growing debt burden. The gross public debt-to-GDP ratio rose to 66 percent at the end of June, as sovereign debt reached ₱19.07 trillion—surpassing the government’s ₱19.06 trillion ceiling targeted for the full year.

Rising debt levels mean higher interest repayments, which BMI warned could “consume more resources that could otherwise be directed towards more productive spending.”

Beyond domestic fiscal management, external risks continue to threaten the economic outlook. BMI noted that conflict in the Middle East poses a significant risk that could “dampen revenue collections and raise the pressure for broader cost-of-living support measures, widening the deficit by more than we expect.”

In an interview at the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) Presidential Luncheon in Manila on Friday, Aug. 14, Marcos clarified that Manila continues to be "very much in cooperation" with Beijing, especially in economic alliances.

"I don't think that that's in any policy statement that we are distancing ourselves from China. We are continuing to find many instances where we are very much in cooperation with China," Marcos said. "China is one of the biggest investors still in the Philippines."

The President recalled that when the war broke out in the Middle East, China was one of the countries the Philippines engaged with, stressing that China dealt with the engagement on "a purely practical, business-like, professional level."

"And all of these, shall we say, conflicting claims in the West Philippine Sea simply did not enter into that discussion. And so the idea that we are somehow distancing ourselves from China, quite the contrary," Marcos said.

Pax Silica, an alternative for Chinese investments?

The Chief Executive also refuted interpretations that opening the Philippines' doors to the US-led Pax Silica project is the country's way of shifting investments from China to other countries.

"I don't see it in that way. It's not a binary thing. It's not either-or in our case," Marcos said.

The Philippines, he further said, is simply open to investors no matter where they come from.

"Whenever someone is interested to come into the Philippines to invest, so long as it is to the mutual benefit of all parties involved, that for us, you say, is a good deal. And it is a good deal that we will enter into, no matter where it comes from," he added.

"If it comes from the U.S., if it comes from Europe, if it comes from China, if it comes from Japan, if it comes from Korea, if it comes from Canada, Australia, we engage with anyone," he added.

The President underscored that the country is interested in what benefits Filipinos in terms of jobs, investment, advancement of capabilities, technology, training, reskilling, and upskilling.

"And so long as we are able to move the economy forward and to better the lives of our people, then that is something that we will certainly examine," Marcos said.

"And if it turns out that that is a beneficial agreement or arrangement, then certainly we will become part of it," Marcos added.

Meanwhile, Marcos pointed out that he does not see the establishment of the Pax Silica project in the country as a way to exploit the country's minerals.

"I cannot see how another country can come to the Philippines and, for example, exploit our minerals without the agreement of the Philippine government," Marcos said.

Top rated Filipino flyweight contender Miel Fajardo is already working hard in training even before his potential title fight against current International Boxing Federation champion Masamichi Yabuki gets finalized.

The 26-year-old pride of Agusan del Sur is already doing some light training at the Elorde Sports Center in Parañaque in bid to stay sharp for his first-ever shot at the world title.

The camps of Fajardo and Yabuki are currently in negotiation to stage the bout after the IBF ordered the Japanese champion to defend his belt against the No. 1 rated Filipino.

According to Fajardo’s camp, there’s still no exact date of the fight although it is being planned to be staged in either October or November.

Either way, Fajardo said he’s ready for the fight since it has been the dream of him to get a shot at a world title and help his family in the province

“Para sa amin, malaking bagay ko sa amin, sa akin, sa amin bilang boksingero kasi yan ko yung pinapangarap ng boxer, ang mapalaban for world championship,” said Fajardo during the media workout where he hit the mitts, the punching bag and figured in a four-round sparring session on Friday, Aug. 14.

“Para rin talaga sa pamilya kasi sa hirap din ng buhay kaya sacrifice talaga kahit malayo sa kanila,” added the hard-punching contender who sports a 14-3-2 record with 12 knockouts.

Known for his quick victories in the past — including the 64-second stoppage against Argentine foe Tobias Reyes which earned him the shot at the world title, Fajardo sees Yabuki as a tough opponent.

Yabuki for one has a 20-4 record and is currently on a six-fight win streak, including the last three to defend his current belt.

“Ngayon hindi ko naman iniisip iyan na makukuha ko ko agad. Kaya yung ginagawa namin, habaan pa iyong training namin kasi di naman lahat ng kalaban makukuha mo agad,” he said.

Spending on fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), or everyday consumer goods, is on track to grow by only one to two percent this year as consumers become more selective amid higher prices of essential goods, according to a report by Worldpanel by Numerator.

Based on the Shopperscope 2026 report, the moving annual total (MAT) of FMCG spending by the end of June registered minimal growth of 1.6 percent. For the second quarter alone, spending declined by 0.8 percent.

So far, consumer spending on FMCG is in line with the worst-case scenario forecast of one- to two-percent growth, which is below the status quo projection of three to four percent.

Last year, FMCG spending rose by 5.2 percent, surpassing an initial forecast of four- to five-percent growth.

Laurice Obana, shopper insights director at Worldpanel by Numerator, told a press briefing on Friday, Aug, 14, that the minimal growth this year is a direct result of the conflict in the Middle East, which prompted a dramatic surge in the prices of essential goods.

The report showed that a quarter of consumers now expect their financial outlook to “worsen” this year, up from only four percent before March, when the impact of the conflict was still relatively subdued.

This is higher than the 24 percent of consumers who expect their financial standing to somewhat improve and the 11 percent who expect their conditions to “greatly improve.”

Meanwhile, the report also found that 68 percent of Filipinos are only managing to keep their finances steady at breakeven, down from an initial 75 percent before March.

Only eight percent consider themselves comfortable, or those who have more resources to afford most things, declining from a previous 16 percent.

The remaining 25 percent are struggling with their finances, having always been short of money to meet their needs. This is an increase from only nine percent before the conflict.

Given their current financial situation, Filipinos are becoming more selective with their spending, with cheaper products and discounts becoming the top priorities for many.

The report said hard-discount stores like Dali and O!Save grew by 40 percent in the second quarter, with frozen meats and non-sweet snacks being the most-bought items.

While traditional channels such as supermarkets and groceries still corner a large share of the market, growth in FMCG spending in the second quarter declined by five percent and four percent, respectively.

“Retailers can no longer rely on old habits to attract shoppers. It is important to understand how and why Filipinos choose where they buy their essentials,” said Obana.

“While proximity is key, shoppers also place important considerations on completeness of assortment or product range as well as value delivery in these trying times,” she added.

The IQOS Iluma i Remix Limited Edition introduces an iridescent treatment with fluid, rhythmic color transitions. The colors fade, merge, and reappear across the design, creating a visual effect that changes as it catches the light. IQOS says the look was inspired by the way people take different influences and aesthetics and remix them into something that reflects their own rhythm.

The music theme extends to the way IQOS describes the limited edition. It is aimed at legal-age nicotine users who "move to their own rhythm and are always looking for the next beat," positioning the device as an expression of individuality rather than simply a new color treatment.

The Remix limited edition builds on the IQOS Iluma i, which the company describes as its most advanced heat-not-burn product. Its development, according to them has been shaped by scientific progress and user-focused thinking, while the new edition adds a more dynamic visual identity through its iridescent finish.

For Vickna Tharmalingam, director for smoke-free products at PMFTC, the Philippine affiliate of Philip Morris International (PMI), innovation begins with curiosity.

“At IQOS, curiosity is our driving force and part of our DNA. It pushes us to constantly innovate and, elevate the consumer experience to keep advancing our vision of a smoke-free future,” said Vickna.

The new design also reflects what IQOS describes as the diversity and evolution of its community across global cities. Its changing colors are intended to echo the way individuals borrow from different influences, aesthetics and experiences, then reinterpret them according to their own personal style.

PMI's broader smoke-free journey, the release says, brings together advanced design, technology, and cultural relevance for adult smokers seeking alternatives. IQOS says it remains committed to informing adult smokers and those who care about them about smoke-free alternatives and supporting smokers who choose to move away from cigarettes.

With the Iluma i Remix Limited Edition, IQOS places the emphasis on the visual language of music: shifting colors, movement, and the freedom to combine influences. It is a limited-edition interpretation of the Iluma i built around the simple idea that personal style, much like music, can always be remixed.

LONDON (AP) — A passenger train derailed Thursday in southern England, seriously injuring two people and causing minor injuries for nine others after three carriages overturned, the British Transport Police said.

The Southern Rail train from Victoria station in London to Eastbourne was carrying about 150 people when it went off the tracks outside the tourist town of Lewes.

Passenger Rob Bradley said the train began rocking as it picked up speed and the carriage he was riding in with his 6-year-old daughter jumped upward and the brakes immediately engaged.

“Everything got thrown forward. My laptop, my AirPods, our bags,” Bradley told the BBC. “The train kind of skidded for quite a while before it stopped and only then when we turned around did we see that the whole back of the train — literally where we were sat — was open and there was smoke and dust pouring into the carriage.”

He could then see the car behind had flipped on its side and slid down an embankment into a lower field.

Bradley said he and his daughter were uninjured but he could see other passengers from one of the flipped cars with blood on their heads and clothing. Another passenger told him they had been cut when a window shattered.

Aerial footage showed firefighters and paramedics treating passengers in a field next to the train, with several ambulances and three helicopters standing by.

All passengers were evacuated within about three hours, the transport police said.

The cause of the derailment is under investigation.

The operation at Davao Mighty Steel Corp. in Barangay Ilang, Bunawan was led by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and several government security and technical units.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag and PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. went to Davao City as part of the operation which began with reports that the company was allegedly producing and distributing substandard reinforcing steel bars.

According to PAOCC, the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) detected radioactive isotopes in Davao Mighty Steel products already being sold commercially.

The NBI and PAOCC, with assistance from the PNRI, Philippine Air Force and Philippine Coast Guard CBRN units, PCG Special Operations Group and the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, implemented search warrants at the Davao Mighty Steel facility on Aug. 13.

The operation resulted in the rescue of the 174 workers from an environment that contained radioactive-bearing materials, dust, fumes, wastes and production residues.

‘Radioactive’

PAOCC said that technical examinations found Uranium-238, Thorium-228, Thorium-232 and Radium-226 in several parts of the plant as well as in finished Davao Mighty Steel reinforcing bars, furnace-related materials, residual black sand, industrial powders, dust, wastes, wastewater and other production and stored materials.

The PNRI also certified that the company and its identified officers and personnel had no license or authority to acquire, receive, possess, use, store, sell, transfer, import or export nuclear or radioactive materials.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) found a separate problem involving the company's environmental clearance after its inspection showed that the firm's Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) allegedly did not declare or authorize the presence, handling, processing, storage, or use of radioactive materials at the site.

The NBI also looked into the quality of steel products already circulating in Mindanao where it found out that out of eight Davao Mighty Steel reinforcing bar samples purchased from commercial hardware stores in the region, four failed the mandatory mass-variation requirement under PNS 49:2020, the quality standard set by the national government for reinforcing steel bars used in construction, which supposedly meant that 50 percent of the samples did not meet the prescribed standard.

Substandard?

Moreover, the findings raised another concern after investigators found Davao Mighty Steel-marked reinforcing bars among the debris of structures that collapsed following the magnitude 7.8 Mindanao earthquake on June 8.

PAOCC said the bars were documented in rubble from schools, hospitals, government buildings, barangay health centers and residences in parts of Sarangani, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental.

However, Acorda cautioned against immediately linking the steel to the structural failures.

He explained that the presence of the company's reinforcing bars in the collapsed structures does not by itself establish that the steel caused the collapses, stressing that determining the reasons for the failures remains subject to proper engineering assessment.

“We will follow the evidence, enforce the law, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable in accordance with law and due process,” Acorda said.

The NBI has referred the case to the Department of Justice for appropriate proceedings and it said possible violations include Republic Act No. 12305, or the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act; Republic Act No. 6969, or the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act; Presidential Decree No. 1586, or the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System; and Republic Act No. 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

The PAOCC said the government would coordinate with the PNRI, DENR, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Health and other agencies to secure the radioactive-bearing materials and protect workers and nearby communities.

It said they will also trace steel products that may already be in the market and work to keep potentially unsafe reinforcing bars from entering the country's construction supply chain.

To recall, the NBI and PAOCC also raided a warehouse of the Philippine Sanjia-Steel Corp. (SANJIA) in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental and arrested 69 Chinese nationals after authorities allegedly discovered radioactive materials at the steel products being produced there.

A lone bettor from Laguna became an instant millionaire after winning the ₱31.9-million Lotto 6/42 jackpot, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) said.

According to the agency, the bettor correctly guessed the winning combination 20-21-14-41-06-12 during Thursday night’s draw (August 13).

The winner will receive the jackpot prize of ₱31,911,511.47, subject to a 20 percent tax under the TRAIN Law.

Meanwhile, 32 bettors who correctly guessed five of the six winning numbers will each receive P34,375.

The ₱25,165,541.16 Super Lotto 6/49 jackpot, however, remains up for grabs after no bettor correctly guessed the winning combination 03-39-38-23-26-14.

Seven bettors who correctly guessed five of the six winning numbers will each receive P185,714.28.

Lotto 6/42 is drawn every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, while Super Lotto 6/49 is drawn every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.

To claim the jackpot, the winner must present the winning ticket and two valid identification cards at the PCSO main office in Mandaluyong City. 

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea on Friday threatened unspecified stern steps against the United States and South Korea ahead of their upcoming military drills, which Pyongyang called a war rehearsal that would be more provocative than last year.

The warning is typical of the harsh rhetoric that North Korea often deploys ahead of major U.S.-South Korean military exercises and suggests the country could conduct more missile tests in coming days. Experts say North Korea has often used its rivals' drills as a pretext to ramp up its testing activities to expand its weapons arsenals and promote public support for leader Kim Jong Un.

The U.S. and South Korean militaries are to start their major summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises Monday and have described their scope as similar to past years. The allies have said the 11-day exercises are meant to strengthen their readiness against North Korean threats and reiterated that they are defensive in nature.

In a statement carried by state media Friday, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry called the U.S.-South Korean training “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that is triggering a different level of instability in the region.

“It is our consistent principle of ensuring security to respond to a new level of a threat with a new level of a deterrent,” the statement said. North Korea “will more clearly express its stance on the enemies to cope with any threats and challenges through the responsible and decisive exercise of the right to legitimate self-defense.”

North Korea also said the drills would be of a “more serious provocative nature and dangerousness than last year” and involve all the military assets and war-fighting modes of the U.S. and South Korea, a claim that those countries haven’t said.

A U.S. military statement issued Friday said U.S. and South Korean forces will practice joint operations in complex scenarios, including a live-fire exercise to test joint precision targeting and maneuver, a wet gap crossing, and distribution of prepositioned military equipment.

North Korea's neighbors detected two ballistic missile launches off the North's east coast in the past week. North Korea hasn’t commented on the launches, but outside experts assess they were likely meant to protest the U.S.-South Korean drills or upgrade its weapons systems.

Kim has ignored the U.S. and South Korea’s offers to resume diplomacy and focused on taking steps to bolster his nuclear arsenal since his diplomacy with U.S. President Donald Trump broke down in 2019. Experts say Kim will likely eventually aim to use his advancing nuclear program to win greater U.S. concessions such as extensive sanctions relief.

North Korea has expanded cooperation with Russia in recent years by supplying troops and ammunition to support its war against Ukraine in return for economic and military assistance. North Korea has also recently pushed to deepen ties with China, its biggest trading partner.

Pangasinan 4th district Rep. Gina de Venecia said she has sought assurances on the continued funding of the construction of the Calmay Bridge during her meeting with DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and Chief of Staff Allan Yap in March.

The three bypass projects are the Dagupan City–Mangaldan By-Pass Road, Dagupan City–Calasiao By-Pass Road, and Binmaley–Pugaro–Bonuan Gueset By-Pass Road.

Residents here are optimistic that, once completed, the projects will improve road connectivity, reduce traffic congestion and provide alternative access for residents when major roads are affected by flooding.

According to the announcement, funding for the projects has been assured, with completion targeted within 2026.

The Calmay Bridge project is expected to be completed at a cost of P1.8 billion with funding programmed in phases.

Aside easing traffic, the additional road links could strengthen mobility and access to essential services during severe weather.

This include when flooding can disrupt regular routes in parts of Dagupan and nearby towns.

Fears that artificial intelligence (AI) could lead to massive job losses in the Philippines’ information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) industry may be overstated as the sector continues to grow despite the rapid adoption of the technology, the country’s chief economist said.

Speaking at the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) Economic Forum on Friday, Aug. 14, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said developments in the IT-BPM sector have shown encouraging signs of the Filipino workforce’s ability to adapt to AI.

According to Balisacan, concerns that the Philippines could lose a substantial portion of its IT-BPM industry because of AI appear to be exaggerated, given that the sector continues to expand even as the technology becomes more widely used.

Balisacan identified innovation and productivity as major sources of economic growth, alongside the need to upskill the country’s labor force to adapt to emerging technologies, including AI.

The DEPDev chief also pointed to the proposed Pax Silica development as an opportunity to diversify the Philippine economy. According to Balisacan, projects such as Pax Silica could improve the quality of economic growth by attracting investments that support industrialization and value-adding activities.

His remarks come amid warnings that the Philippines could be particularly vulnerable to AI disruption because of the importance of the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector to employment and the economy.

In a report published last Wednesday, Aug. 12, think tank Capital Economics said the Philippines risks falling behind the global AI boom as it benefits less from the surge in AI-related electronics exports while its BPO industry faces growing exposure to automation.

Capital Economics senior Asia economist Gareth Leather noted that the BPO sector directly employs around 1.8 million workers, generates roughly $40 billion in annual export revenues, and accounts for around seven to eight percent of gross domestic product (GDP).

Industry estimates cited by Capital Economics suggest that around one million BPO-related jobs in the Philippines could be vulnerable to automation by 2030.

The think tank also noted that the Philippines ranked 43rd out of 47 economies in its AI Economic Impact Index, with a score of 21 out of 100.

The Philippines, meanwhile, is seeking to attract AI, semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, and other high-value investments through its participation in the United States (US)-led Pax Silica initiative.

The Philippines and the US are developing a nearly 1,619-hectare (ha) economic security zone in New Clark City in Tarlac province, envisioned as the first AI-native industrial acceleration hub under Pax Silica.

Earlier, the World Bank said AI could help developing economies accelerate productivity, although the technology could also disrupt employment in industries with tasks susceptible to automation.

Asked about environmental concerns surrounding Pax Silica, including the substantial water and electricity requirements associated with AI infrastructure and data centers, Balisacan said the proposed development extends beyond those facilities.

According to Balisacan, state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), which is preparing the master plan, has discussed the environmental concerns and is looking at technologies and safeguards intended to protect the environment.

Based on the latest Disaster Response Operations Management, Information and Communication report released on Friday, Aug. 14, DSWD has provided 754,881 family food packs (FFPs) to affected families and individuals.

The agency also distributed 9,720 non-food items and 16,869 boxes of ready-to-eat food to affected communities.

“The DSWD continues to coordinate with local governments to determine their needs and immediately deliver the necessary relief assistance. We are ensuring that we have sufficient stockpiles and resources to continue responding while communities remain affected by the inclement weather,” DSWD Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said in Filipino.

Dumlao said the department is also providing financial assistance to affected families, particularly those whose houses were damaged.

About ₱1.598 million in cash aid has so far been distributed under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

DSWD currently has around 4.4 million boxes of FFPs prepositioned in warehouses across the country to ensure the availability of relief supplies.

Speaking at the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines (EJAP) economic forum on Friday, Aug. 14, Remolona said that while a drop in investments dragged gross domestic product (GDP) growth down to a post-pandemic low of 2.3 percent, the expansion “is not as weak as it seems.”

He noted that the central bank had expected considerably stronger growth in the second quarter. “It was more like 3.2 percent. So that makes a big difference. It makes a difference in the way we decide on monetary policy,” he said.

However, he added that the BSP’s outlook remains cautious “because potential growth is more like 5.5 percent to 5.8 percent. That means weak growth remains a consideration,” referring to the upcoming Aug. 27 policy meeting. The benchmark rate currently stands at 4.75 percent following two quarter-point hikes since the flare-up of conflict in the Middle East in late February.

Citing former Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, Remolona explained that the BSP’s baseline assumption accounted for slower growth in 2025 due to the impact of the flood control controversy on public construction.

“Government construction was reassessed by deducting 70 percent of flood control disbursements from actual government construction expenditure in the second quarter of 2025,” Remolona’s report read. Consequently, growth in the second quarter of 2025 was revised down to 4.6 percent from the actual 5.4 percent.

Remolona made it clear that sluggish growth could allow the policy-setting Monetary Board (MB) to ease up on rate increases. “The weaker growth that we’re seeing means we can be less aggressive in trying to tame inflation,” he said.

However, the BSP chief stressed that the MB needs to see a “more convincing” disinflation trend before considering a pause in its tightening cycle. “With the growth and inflation numbers, I think we need a more convincing downward trend for inflation before we can relax,” Remolona said.

“But in the face of an unpredictable opponent—oil prices, for example—we need to keep our eye on the ball,” he added.

Headline inflation remained above the 4 percent target ceiling in July despite easing to a three-month low of 6.2 percent. The BSP raised its average inflation forecasts for this year and next to 6.4 percent and 4.5 percent, respectively.

Year-to-date inflation averaged 5 percent as of end-July, staying above the government’s 2 percent to 4 percent target range deemed manageable and conducive to economic growth.

Meanwhile, the BSP’s operational inflation target remains at 3 percent, which Remolona described as the “sweet spot for inflation in an economy that’s growing fast and an economy where you find that some prices are sticky downward.”

During the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) Presidential Luncheon in Manila on Friday, Aug. 14, Marcos was asked whether he would allow the US military to launch offensive operations from Philippine bases and territory if an invasion of Taiwan were to occur.

Marcos firmly stated that the Philippines has no desire to be a belligerent nation in the region. All it is concerned about is promoting peace and stability, he stressed.

"The Philippines has no desire to be a belligerent nation in the region. We have no interest in that. All we are concerned about is the defense of our territory and the maintenance of peace and stability in the region," Marcos said.

"That is all that the Philippines is concerned with. That is all the concern that Philippines will promote. That is all that the Philippines will endorse and support," he added.

The President emphasized that allowing an attack from the country against anyone contradicts its policy of maintaning regional peace and stability.

"So to allow an attack on anyone from the Philippines is contrary to that policy. So we will stick with that policy, where all that we do is work hard to maintain peace and stability in the region," Marcos said.

PH has no influence on what other countries do

Marcos pointed out that whatever other countries do, the Philippines has no influence over it. Thus, it will only stick with its policies and duty to defend its territory, to exercise its sovereign rights

"What other countries choose to do is really not something that the Philippines has much influence on. So again, what the United States or any other country chooses to do is certainly an internal matter for them and how they choose to handle their own foreign policy," the President said.

"When it involves the Philippines, again, we hew back to that policy, where we are not interested in being a belligerent force. We are simply interested in the defense of the republic, a continued exercise of our sovereign rights, and the recognition of our territorial independence," he added.

The President has repeatedly stated that the country will not interefere in any internal affairs of other countries, including the issue between China and Taiwan.

Security Bank Corp. grew its net income by four percent year-on-year to ₱6.1 billion in the first half of 2026 as stronger revenues, better operating efficiency, and prudent credit management supported its performance.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) on Friday, Aug. 14, Security Bank said its second-quarter momentum strengthened, with net income rising 25 percent quarter-on-quarter and 11 percent year-on-year to ₱3.4 billion.

Pre-provision operating profit rose 21 percent year-on-year to ₱15.4 billion, reflecting the bank’s core earnings expansion and continued focus on disciplined, quality growth.

“We are building momentum with discipline. We grew revenues faster than expenses, improved efficiency, strengthened reserve cover, and maintained strong capital and liquidity. Our focus is to keep growing responsibly while making banking simpler, faster, and more responsive for the customers and businesses we serve,” said Security Bank President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Victor Lee.

Total revenues increased 11 percent to ₱34.9 billion as net interest income grew to ₱32.4 billion, with net interest margin at 5.78 percent. Service charges, fees, and commissions reached ₱4.2 billion.

Operating expenses (opex) increased three percent year-on-year, well below revenue growth, bringing the cost-to-income ratio down to 55.7 percent from 59.6 percent in the first half of last year.

The bank sustained a prudent and proactive approach to credit and made provisions for credit losses amounting to ₱7.6 billion for the first half.

Asset quality indicators improved, with the gross non-performing loan (NPL) ratio declining to 3.04 percent from 3.16 percent a year ago and 3.08 percent in the previous quarter. NPL reserve cover also improved to 85 percent from 79 percent a year ago and 81 percent in the previous quarter.

In the second quarter, total revenues rose to ₱17.9 billion, up five percent quarter-on-quarter and 11 percent year-on-year. Pre-provision operating profit reached ₱7.9 billion, up six percent from the previous quarter and 19 percent from the same period last year.

Provisions for credit losses were at ₱3.7 billion in the second quarter of the year, lower than the ₱3.9 billion recorded in the first quarter.

Total deposits stood at ₱891 billion, with current and savings account (CASA) deposits up eight percent year-on-year. CASA accounted for 52 percent of total deposits, higher than 49 percent a year ago and 51 percent in the previous quarter.

Net loans stood at ₱675 billion, up one percent year-on-year, as the bank continued to rebalance its portfolio toward higher-quality segments. Total investment securities amounted to ₱362 billion.

Liquidity coverage ratio was 206 percent and net stable funding ratio was 145 percent, both well above regulatory minimums. Common equity tier 1 (CET1) ratio improved to 12.6 percent from 12.2 percent in the previous quarter and 12.3 percent a year ago.

Total capital adequacy ratio (CAR) improved to 13.5 percent, compared with 13.1 percent in the previous quarter and 13.2 percent a year ago. Shareholders’ capital increased to ₱155.7 billion, up five percent year-on-year and one percent quarter-on-quarter. Total assets stood at ₱1.19 trillion, up three percent year-on-year. - James A. Loyola

CALI, Colombia (AP) — With arms raised and fists clenched, rescuers in Colombia called for silence Thursday as they listened for signs of life in the rubble of a deadly earthquake and raced to pull more survivors from the debris before time runs out.

The call for quiet was part of last-ditch efforts to find anyone else alive in the aftermath of the 7.4 magnitude quake that struck the South American country Monday, killing more than 280 people and leaving hundreds more missing.

“Unfortunately, we are reaching a point where the probability of finding survivors is dwindling,” said David Santiago Tamayo, director of the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, in a press conference Thursday night. “But the mission is to never stop searching and find all those reported missing.”

Aid agencies consider the first two to three days after a quake to be the prime window for retrieving survivors. People trapped in debris can live longer if they have access to food and water.

The death toll rose Thursday to 281, authorities said, with another 348 people rescued.

As time runs out, rescuers, families and volunteers across the country continue to hold on to hope.

“There might be two more people alive here, and I’m hopeful,” rescuer Daiana Rojas told The Associated Press. “We have been hearing sounds since 2:30 a.m., so our hope remains.”

Rojas and her family were unharmed by the quake, the most powerful to hit Colombia in this century. She has been volunteering to help search for survivors in Cali, one of the most heavily damaged cities, along with Pereira, Manizales and Quibdó.

“I thought that was going to be my last moment alive,” she said, recalling the terror of the quake. “Seeing this situation in my city breaks my heart.”

Rojas has witnessed two people being pulled alive from the debris, as well as the recovery of bodies.

“They are not a relative or a friend of mine, but it feels as they were,” she said of the survivors who have been found. “Whenever rescuers ask for silence, everyone stays still and tries not to move, speak or whisper. But when signs of life are found, all the teams start to applaud.”

Critical hours

The devastation has tested Colombia’s new President Abelardo de la Espriella and his government as they scramble to respond while aid groups seek to help the hardest-hit communities.

“The situation is complex, but we are using all our capacity and the capacity that has come from other countries,” de la Espriella said.

The president added nearly 400 people remain missing, though civilian-run databases put the number at more than 4,200. More than 3,900 people were reported injured, while nearly 10,600 homes were destroyed and more than 65,800 damaged. In total, more than 44,900 families have been affected, he said.

Authorities recognize that the rescue effort has entered a grim phase as search teams begin shifting toward recovering bodies. But as the government moves forward with plans to help those affected and rebuild the country, finding potential survivors remains a priority. “Our priority is saving lives,” de la Espriella said. “These are human beings who are trapped under the rubble.”

In other developments, a 4.2 magnitude aftershock struck Thursday in San José del Palmar, in the Chocó region — the epicenter of the earthquake. More than 160 aftershocks have rocked the country, according to the Colombian Geological Survey.

“We’re pretty shaken up, but we’re in good spirits. We can see everyone working hard to get through this very complex situation,” volunteer helper Jairo Galán said in Cali, where food and donation centers were set up.

Colombia, with a population of 54 million people, experiences an average of 2,500 earthquakes each month, most of them small. That's equivalent to about 80 tremors per day, according to the geological survey.

More international aid arrives

Meanwhile, international aid continues to arrive.

Speaking to reporters in Quibdó, in the Chocó region, Colombian Vice President José Manuel Restrepo said rescuers had concluded the search for survivors and bodies in the area and would now shift their focus to the “humanitarian phase.”

The region has received some 7 tons of humanitarian aid, with another 10 tons expected to arrive late Thursday night. An additional 20 tons of supplies are expected to arrive on Friday. “That’s almost 40 tons of humanitarian aid, containing everything people will need at this moment,” Restrepo said.

Earlier today, a group of rescuers from the Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived to help with search efforts and structural engineering assessments. Other countries, including Peru, El Salvador, Mexico and Brazil, have also offered assistance.

De la Espriella announced on X that Colombia will receive a $10 million donation from the United Arab Emirates.

The Chinese ambassador to Colombia said China will provide $1 million in financial aid and more than $2 million in humanitarian assistance.

The South American Football Confederation and the Colombian Football Federation also jointly announced a $1 million donation to support reconstruction efforts.

“Soccer transcends the pitch and remains close to its people, especially in the most difficult times,” they said in a statement.

The Colombia disaster unfolded less than two months after neighboring Venezuela endured back-to-back earthquakes. The contrast between the two countries' responses was stark.

In Venezuela, acting President Delcy Rodríguez waited nearly four hours before addressing the nation. In Colombia, de la Espriella announced an emergency command post to oversee rescue efforts barely an hour after the earthquake. For weeks, Venezuelan civilians were clawing through rubble by hand. Hours after the earthquake in Colombia, rescue teams were searching for survivors with cranes and excavators.

The contrast was a reminder of the differences between the nations — their political systems, resources and the strength of their institutions — and a demonstration of how those can take on life-or-death importance.

NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Alabanza said on Friday, Aug. 14, that the grid operator expects the Visayas grid to normalize by Aug. 30, provided that power supply is sufficient to accommodate regional demand.

“The primary driver of [the grid alerts] in Visayas and Mindanao is the power plant shutdowns. The situation in the Visayas is aggravated because the region relies on imports from Luzon and Mindanao,” she said in a media briefing, noting that a recent power plant shutdown in Mindanao caused a domino effect in the neighboring region, resulting in rotating grid alerts.

As of Friday, the Visayas was scheduled for another red alert from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with yellow alerts active from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. This was caused by the shutdown of Therma Visayas, Inc. (TVI) power plant units 1 and 2, as well as limited power imports from Mindanao.

Meanwhile, Mindanao faced a yellow alert from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. after unit 2 of GNPower Kauswagan Ltd. Co. (GNPK) began maintenance work, while unit 1 underwent an emergency shutdown due to a boiler tube leak.

Yellow alerts signal that supply is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement, whereas red alerts occur when supply cannot cover both the NGCP's regulating requirement and consumer demand.

“We expect the last two big plants at TVI to return this month—on August 22 and August 30—and we're hoping that they will come back online,” Alabanza said.

The spokesperson also clarified that while the grid operator has numerous pipeline transmission projects in place, these connections still need stable electricity generation from operational power plants to ensure fewer grid alerts in the future.

Beyond monitoring the power supply-demand balance, the NGCP reported a high ancillary service (AS) rate of ₱1.04 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the month, while its transmission wheeling rate stood at ₱0.54 per kWh.

“The reason for the increase is the lower billing determinant, or the energy consumption for this month,” said Julius Ryan Datingaling, NGCP head of business and regulatory development.

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday, August 14 said he supports the planned Pax Silica Industrial Hub in Capas, Tarlac but stressed the need to meet several environmental and displacement conditions.

Gatchalian made the remark during the committee hearing of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources and Climate Change on the proposed Pax Silica Initiative.

“Personally, I support the Pax Silica, but I also have many conditions and caveats,” Gatchalian said.

“First, I see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity for our country… At a time when our economy is growing very slowly, having investors come into our country is a big thing for our long-term growth,” the Senate leader said.

Gatchalian said pushing through with the project would be one of the country’s biggest industry shift. Because if the Philippines fails to keep pace with the Artificial Intelligence (AI), it could wipe out jobs, particularly entry-level and low-value positions in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.

But like any business model, the Senate chief said “there are risks, caveats and conditions.”

“We should discuss those, and you are right that our committee should also monitor them. These risks and caveats, first of all, include that this initiative should be in accordance with our Constitution and local laws. There is no compromise on that. We cannot neglect our sovereignty,” he also said.

The government, he said, must address Pax Silica’s environmental concerns, particularly its water requirements, as well as the electricity needed to support the project amid existing power-supply concerns.

Likewise, Gatchalian stressed that farmers and indigenous peoples (IPs) should not be displaced by the project, saying their concerns must be addressed fairly.

He also called for a clear technology transfer, as the Filipinos must learn from the industries entering the country.

For his part, Sen. Raffy Tulfo said a comprehensive, multidisciplinary study of the proposed Pax Silica Initiative should first be conducted, particularly on the project’s potential environmental and social impacts.

“We don't want this to become Chuangxing part 2. And so, we want to take up during this hearing the concerns that are being raised against Pax Silica. We want to hear from our government agencies what actions are being taken to prevent the fear of the people,” Tulfo said.

Tulfo earlier raised concerns over Chuangxing after a building at the steel plant collapsed, killing more than 30 people. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) also raided the facility amid repeated complaints over alleged environmental and other violations.

Tulfo said that while he supports economic progress and recognized Pax Silica’s potential to create jobs and contribute to digital transformation, these opportunities should come with proper safeguards and strict compliance with environmental regulations.

“My only request is that we have a comprehensive, multidisciplinary study, covering not just the technical and economic aspects, but more importantly, the environmental and social impacts,” Tulfo said.

“We must examine its effects on local ecosystems, water and energy consumption, waste management, and how it will affect the lives of the communities surrounding the proposed site,” he added.

Sen. Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV also echoed the same sentiment, saying he believes “there has to be a better way forward.”

“Our goals regarding industrialization, job creation, and advanced manufacturing—as Senate President Sherwin mentioned—are all positive and represent our shared aspirations. However, we must ensure there is a better path forward for our country's progress,” Aquino said during the hearing.

“We aspire to modernize and expand our industries without leaving anyone behind or, worse, causing setbacks for anyone. History has shown us that without proper oversight, progress can occur while marginalized groups continue to suffer,” he stressed.

“So, what I am saying is that as we strive to push for progress in our country, let us ensure that no one is left behind. After all, a nation's true progress is measured by how it treats its poorest and most needy citizens,” he pointed out.

“Let’s not demonize immunization,” urged Iloilo Governor Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr.

Defensor described immunization as “hulog ng langit (heaven-sent) to allay fears of parents over immunization.

The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (PHO) considers misinformation as a challenge as it tries to reach its target of 172,360 children to be immunized for MR, which is specifically for children below 5-years-old against measles and rubella (MR).

Iloilo PHO Chief Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon reiterated that parents should see the bigger picture as immunization protects their children's future from MR. She urged parents to choose facts and science over fear-mongering.

As of August 13, the immunization coverage went up to 27.39 percent in 42 towns and the component city of Passi.

Among the top 10 local governments that implemented the MR immunization are Miag-ao, City of Passi, Guimbal, Alimodian, New Lucena, San Dionisio, Pototan, Mina, Santa Barbara, and Balasan.

A 35-year-old man was arrested after a car owner caught him allegedly stealing a Bosch Automotive Control Unit worth P103,850 from his parked Ford Ecosport in Barangay Sta. Lucia, Novaliches, Quezon City, Thursday afternoon, Aug. 13.

The suspect, identified only as alias “JO,” was caught inside the vehicle on Teachers Street at around 3 p.m. on the same day.

The victim was walking toward his vehicle when he spotted the suspect taking the automotive control unit.

He immediately sought help from Barangay Public Safety Officers (BPSO), who apprehended the suspect on Aug. 13, and recovered the stolen item.

The suspect, a resident of Barangay Sta. Lucia, was turned over to Fairview Police Station (PS 5) for investigation and proper disposition.

A complaint for theft is being prepared for inquest proceedings before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD), under Police Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio, reminded motorists to keep their vehicles locked, avoid leaving valuables inside parked vehicles, and install appropriate security devices to help prevent theft and other property-related crimes.

Rey Grabato II is wanted by the FBI “for conspiracy to commit securities fraud, securities fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the US with respect to tax."

In an August 13 (August 14 Philippine time) online announcement, the FBI is offering a reward of $150,000 for information that could lead to the arrest of Rey II who might have “ties to the Philippines and may be living there.”

Rey II was originally indicted in October 2022 after being charged by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for defrauding thousands of investors via the National Realty Investment Advisors LLC (NRIA).

As the president and majority owner NRIA, the FBI said Rey II and his business partner Thomas Nicholas Salzano “misrepresented the value of NRIA’s investment fund to reportedly acquire equity interests in companies that invested in real estate assets”.

Rey II is also accused of conspiring to evade $26 million in tax liabilities with the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

When the initial news broke out in October 2022, the Grabato family said that Rey II has already returned to Iloilo after recovering from an accident in the US.

In 2023, Rey II was seen publicly in Iloilo. At that time, he was engaged in several businesses including construction and farming.

As of press time, Rey II’s whereabouts are unknown. The Grabato family has also not issued a statement.

In a time where AI and automation is fast entering multiple industries, ManilaMed has stressed that the robot is not a replacement for a surgeon’s judgement. It serves as a precision-enhancing tool that helps patients recover faster, reduce complications, and provides minimal invasiveness.

The robot is operated entirely by medically trained professionals, not by AI or automation. Licensed surgeons undergo specialized training to use the robot. They control the robotic arms from a console in real time.

“It all started with a dream, a vision, of our president, and now it’s here as a reality,” said Dr. Rouel Mateo M. Azores, chairman of the Department of Surgery. “This is not to steal the spotlight from our surgeons. This is an added, major tool that will help us operate with precision in every surgery we do.”

The robotic suite includes two dedicated rooms:

Operating Room: For patient procedures, equipped with the EDDIE robotic system.

Training and simulation room: For surgical staff to practice and refine their skills using simulation and hands-on modules.

ManilaMed has also confirmed that pricing for robotic-assisted procedures will remain competitive, aligning with market rates while offering advanced surgical capabilities.

The advantages of robotic-assisted thoracic surgery includes:

Enhanced precision: Robotic arms provide freedom for movement, allowing for tight maneuvers with ease.

Improved visualization: Closer view with magnification would allow surgeons to identify anatomy with greater accuracy.

Minimal invasiveness: Smaller cuts to reduce trauma, less postoperative pain, and less scarring. This would lead to faster recovery, allowing shorter hospital stays and patients could return to daily activities sooner.

Less complications: Lower bleeding and infection rates.

Surgeon comfort: Surgeons would be operating seated in front of a console. It may sound a small thing, but the added comfort for the surgeon’s part would reduce their fatigue during lengthy procedures. Personally, if I were lying down on that operating table, I’d want my surgeon to be as comfortable as possible.

The launch of the EDDIE robotics suite coincides with ManilaMed's anniversary celebrations and is part of a broader expansion of services. Two additional facilities have also been inaugurated:

Center for Sleep Disorders: A dedicated clinic offering comprehensive diagnostics and treatment for conditions such as sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy.

New Emergency Room (ER): Designed to accommodate patients more efficiently, with expanded capacity, advanced triage systems, and streamlined workflows to reduce wait times.

These additions underscore ManilaMed's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with patient-centered care, positioning the hospital as a leader in both surgical innovation and holistic health services.

The 30-year-old suspect, a certain John, yielded 27 packs of suspected shabu when he was arrested in a buy-bust operation past 3 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13, said Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Central Visayas (PDEA-7) Regional Director Joel Plaza.

Plaza said the seized shabu has an estimated average market value of P9,690,000.

Plaza added that the suspect was considered a high-value target.

Records showed that the suspect was previously arrested by the Philippine National Police on August 13, 2023, for violation of Section 11 (possession of dangerous drugs), Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Based on monitoring, the PDEA-7 said the suspect was selling two kilos of shabu a week.

Fans of "Heated Rivalry" have more to look forward to as the hit hockey romance series officially returns for a second season.

Based on Rachel Reid’s "Game Changers" novels, the HBO Max and Crave series follows hockey rivals Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), whose secret relationship has stretched across a decade.

Season 2 will primarily adapt Reid’s sixth book, "The Long Game," which picks up years into Shane and Ilya’s relationship as they face the difficult question of whether to finally make their romance public.

Showrunner Jacob Tierney previously teased that the new season will move into more serious territory while remaining focused on the couple’s relationship. “I want to dig deeper,” said Tierney at BookCon earlier April 2026, describing the adaptation as an exploration of the challenges that come after falling in love.

The new season will also introduce another couple from Reid’s "Role Model." Justice Smith will play Harris Drover, while Charlie Gillespie will portray Troy Barrett. Emily Hampshire, Edvin Ryding, Robert Naylor, Sabrina Jalees and drag performer Priyanka are also joining the cast in new roles.

Production is underway, with the second season expected to premiere on HBO Max in spring 2027.

CAVITE – Three cats died while three others were rescued after being locked for weeks inside a rental apartment in Barangay Salcedo 2, Noveleta, without food, water, or care.

A post from the Bataan Animal Welfare Society (BAWS) on Aug. 12 said the cats' owners are a couple who were not originally from Noveleta and worked as massage therapists. They have been renting the unit for about five months before the incident.

In July, the tenants reportedly told the landlord that they would be traveling to Aklan for about a week and would return on July 15. They said they would be leaving one cat in the unit with enough food and water.

However, the couple did not return as promised. The landlord said he sought help from the barangay to enter the unit after the tenants failed to show up, but to no avail.

Barangay Salcedo 2 Chairman Tony Solayao confirmed with the Manila Bulletin on Aug. 14 that the landlord indeed sought assistance from them during the first week of August. As it was already late in the day, Solayao advised the landlord to return the following day so barangay officials could accompany them into the unit and document the process on video to avoid potential disputes over any belongings that might later be reported missing.

Solayao said the landlord had not returned to the barangay, leading them to believe the matter had already been resolved.

On Aug. 12, the landlord entered the apartment while documenting the process on video. It was only then that he discovered the three deceased cats and the three others that survived but were found starving and dehydrated.

“The landlord reportedly does not possess identification documents belonging to the tenants. He was, however, able to provide names that were allegedly given to him by the tenants. At this point, we cannot independently confirm whether these are their legal names or identities,” BAWS' post read.

Upon getting a report from a concerned citizen, BAWS rescued the surviving cats and named them Ember, Chance, and Clover.

While Chance and Clover are in stable condition, Ember is confined as she is unable to move the lower half of her body following weeks of dehydration and malnutrition.

The Noveleta Public Information Office told the Manila Bulletin that the incident had not been reported to the Municipal Agriculture Office before the rescue post went viral.

The local government unit said that had the incident been reported to them, the rescued cats would have been referred to an accredited animal shelter, as Noveleta is still developing its own animal shelter following the growth of the municipality’s population.

As chairman of the Senate’s Finance Committee, Ejercito said he would ensure transparency in the deliberation of the National Expenditure Program for 2027, which stands at P7.2-trillion, after the country was rocked by what he described as the biggest corruption scandal in the government–the flood-control project scam.

“We have to regain the trust of the Filipino people,” Ejercito told local reporters on Friday, Aug 14. Ejercito flew in to attend an activity of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines Mindanao cluster.

Ejercito said he will not allow last-minute amendments.

“Not all amendments, insertions are bad but it should be done in open plenary,” he said.

Ejercito said leading the budget hearing “will be a very big task for me.”

“It’s probably the biggest responsibility that I will have as a lawmaker,” he said.

Ejercito disclosed he hesitated to lead the committee but Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian encouraged him to take it.

“It’s a position of trust more than anything. Mahirap ibigay sa iba yan. It’s dangerous. Maraming puwedeng gawin, maraming puwede itago kung hindi maayos,” Ejercito recalled what Gatchalian told him.

Ejercito said the budget for the Universal Health Care (UHC) will be prioritized during the deliberations.

The lawmaker said that when he ran for senator in 2022, one of his campaign promises was to ensure the full implementation of the UHC.

“As chairman of the finance committee,I will have the first crack at the budget. I would give UHC a priority. I will make sure that the subsidy of PhilHealth will not be hijacked. Instead, it will be supplemented. We would want to add more so that more beneficiaries will be reached,” said Ejercito.

Ejercito said civil society organizations, academe, and other stakeholders will be encouraged to participate in the deliberations.

Dr. Donna Panes, curriculum implementation division chief of DepEd Sarangani Division, admitted that learners in the DepEd Sarangani Division have reeled from poor reading comprehension even before the magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck last June 8.

Thus, Panes said that the teachers are wary of the impact of the classroom shortage as many schools in severely-hit areas are implementing blended and modular learning methods after school buildings were totally damaged by the earthquakes.

"This measure is implemented due to lack of classrooms," she added.

On August 10, the provincial government of Sarangani announced that face-to-face classes in all levels will resume in both public and private schools. But it clarified that blended learning methods will be implemented in some schools that still have restricted classrooms.

Since the powerful earthquake struck on June 8, face-to-face classes in the province have been suspended several times due to continued aftershocks, heavy rains and flooding.

Of the 328 schools in the seven towns of the province, 45 are implementing blended learning, Panes said.

While modular distance learning will be implemented in some schools that are still not accessible due to landslides.

The DepEd Sarangani official disclosed that in Malapatan town, 19 schools are implementing a blended method and three are purely modular.

Seven schools are also implementing purely modular methods after the classrooms were totally damaged and the school site remains hazardous due to the powerful earthquake, she added.

In the neighboring town of Glan, 23 schools are under a blended method while four are implementing a modular method, Panes said.

These towns were the most-heavily affected by the earthquake last June.

Under the blended method, Panes said learners will attend three days of face-to-face classes and two days of modular learning.

She said that they are wary of this prolonged impact of the earthquake on the students’ learning environment. “We are facing a big challenge since our reading comprehension is already low even if we already have the classrooms. How much more now since we are facing classroom shortage?”

The DepEd Sarangani official admitted that she is saddened that many of the struggling readers are also the ones who are living in the remote areas.

Data from the DepEd Sarangani shows that out of 35,591 Grade 1 to 3 learners assessed, 59.25% were identified as struggling readers.

While intermediate level learners (Grades 4–6) show that out of 36,922 learners assessed, 86.03% in English and 79.25% in Filipino were performing below grade level (2 to 3 levels down).

It added that junior high school (Grades 7–10) shows that 87.84% in English and 82.19% in Filipino were non-proficient/frustration level readers.

The baselines assessment was conducted in July last year using the Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) for Key Stage 1 and the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (PHIL-IRI) for Key Stages 2 and 3.

Moreover, Panes also said the geographic barriers, resulting in physical fatigue, has also affected the performance of the learners since hundreds of learners walk over five kilometers daily to reach school.

This has resulted in chronic absenteeism and exhaustion, the report added.

“The profile of our struggling readers are the ones living in the most remote areas. They are the poorest of the poor here and they are the ones who have to walk to the schools. Unfortunately, they are the ones too who are severely affected by the earthquake and the landslides,” Panes emphasized.

Following the impact of the devastating earthquake last June, Panes acknowledged that there’s still a need to build more temporary classrooms known as Learning Continuity Spaces (LCS).

LCS are prefabricated, disaster-resilient classrooms, to address immediate classroom needs in disaster-affected areas designed prevent prolonged class disruptions during typhoons, earthquakes, and other calamities

According to Panes, the provincial government has allocated P170,000 worth of construction materials for each of the 117 LCS.

While the ng DepEd has allocated P62 million for clean up and cleaning operations and minor repairs in the province, she added.

Across the province, Panes said there are 778 totally damaged classrooms. “These are all for replacement, we needed to build new classrooms. That’s why we needed the LCS to continue classes. This shortage has resulted in the implementation of blended learning because we have a shortage of classrooms.”

President Marcos said he would endorse the “best possible candidate” in the 2028 elections, setting the stage for the administration to field a candidate who could challenge Vice President Sara Duterte.

Speaking at the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) Presidential Luncheon in Manila, Marcos said he would certainly endorse a candidate but stressed that it was too early to determine who that would be.

“I will certainly endorse a candidate in the 2028 elections,” he said Friday, Aug. 14.

“Who that is, I cannot tell you because even I don't know. It's a little early for that. And we don't know,” he added.

However, Marcos said there was a person interested in running for the presidency but refused to reveal their identity.

“So far, we have only one person who has put their hand in the ring. So, that's a very, very early one in the process,” he said.

Marcos likewise said his party, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), would forge alliances with other political parties, with the eventual arrangement determining whether they would field joint candidates or their own slate.

“We will certainly provide the best candidate for the betterment of the lives of every Filipino,” he said.

“We will choose the best possible candidate,” he added, saying the administration would seek to continue what it had started while introducing new initiatives for the country's development.

Too early to decide

President Marcos said he had yet to discuss the presidential race with anyone, as names being floated for 2028 remain speculative.

“Sa ngayon, puro haka-haka lang. Baka tatakbo si ganito, tatakbo si ganyan (For now, it is all speculation. This one might run, that one might run),” he said.

“Put it this way, I haven't sat down with anyone and said, ‘Do you want to run for president or not?’ No, we've not come anywhere near that,” he added.

Marcos said deciding on a candidate now would be premature because many political events could still happen before the 2028 elections.

The President's remarks came as early surveys have begun measuring hypothetical 2028 matchups, including the latest OCTA Research Tugon ng Masa survey that showed the Leni Robredo-Raffy Tulfo tandem at 45 percent, against 42 percent for the Sara Duterte-Imee Marcos tandem.

Surveys not a factor

The Chief Executive said he does not allow survey results to influence his decisions or the direction of his administration, despite acknowledging that politicians naturally pay attention to their numbers.

“I don't change my decision because of the survey. I don't change direction because of the survey,” he said.

“I adopt a policy because I believe that it's the best policy,” he added, noting that survey results do not determine the “rightness or wrongness” of what his government is trying to do.

According to Marcos, early 2028 surveys may be interesting, but he questioned their usefulness because the election remains far away and political conditions could still change significantly.

The backing came from 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco, Qatar, Egypt, Mauritania, Lebanon and Sudan, with four of the signatories being FIFA council members.

“We, the undersigned leaders of our respective football associations, express our full support for Mr. Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, and reaffirm our confidence in his leadership and continued commitment to the development of football worldwide,” the statement read.

“We deeply appreciate Mr. Infantino’s sustained efforts to advance football globally, expand opportunities across all regions and strengthen the game’s role in bringing people and communities together.”

The statement said the signatories “look forward to continuing our close cooperation with him towards a stronger and more prosperous future for world football, expanding opportunities and further enhancing Arab football’s contribution to the global game.”

Infantino is facing a revolt after his plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private equity investors. He withdrew the $20 billion proposal after a furious backlash by global soccer officials, including European body UEFA, which has warned of a boycott of all FIFA games and events.

UEFA teamed up with CONCACAF — the confederation for North, Central America and the Caribbean — and the Asian Football Confederation — and issued an open letter Monday saying Infantino’s plan was a “fundamental breach of trust” and described it as “deception.”

And on Thursday, the Football Association of Ireland said in a statement it has withdrawn its support for Infantino to be re-elected as FIFA president in March, saying “recent events have raised significant concerns regarding governance, transparency and the lack of meaningful consultation.”

The soccer federations in England and Wales did the same last week, while Northern Ireland said it was backing UEFA's stance.

New Zealand Football, which is part of the Oceania confederation, issued a statement Friday local time saying it had withdrawn its support for the candidature of Infantino and was seeking an independent review of steps taken to develop the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme.

New Zealand soccer's governing body said it “formed the view that decisions and actions within FIFA have contributed to a breakdown in trust and increased division within international football, and that an independent review is required to restore confidence and trust.”

Schism in Asian bloc over Infantino support

By expressing support for Infantino, Qatar and Lebanon aligned against the Asian Football Confederation. Infantino’s official Instagram account previously has posted letters of support from several member federations, including Morocco, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The four FIFA council members among the signatories were Qatar Football Association president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Egyptian Football Association president Hany Abo Rida, Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa and Mauritanian Football Federation president Ahmed Yahya.

The other two were Lebanese Football Association president Hashem Haidar and Moatasem Gafar, president of the Sudan Football Association.

Infantino has been FIFA president since 2016 and seemed sure to be re-elected unopposed next year in Morocco.

FIFA has set a Nov. 18 deadline for challengers to come forward.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Bloomberry said net loss for the six months through June dropped to ₱470.3 million from ₱1.9 billion in the same period of 2025.

The bottom line was aided by a ₱403 million first-quarter gain from the sale of its Jeju Sun gaming license in South Korea through a demerger and share-purchase deal.

By comparison, earnings in the prior-year period were bolstered by a non-cash, one-time gain of ₱2.9 billion tied to the refinancing of a ₱40 billion syndicated loan facility.

For the second quarter, net loss also shrank by 75 percent to ₱345.3 million from ₱1.4 billion a year earlier.

Gross gaming revenue (GGR) rose 15 percent to ₱16.4 billion in the April–June period, driven by higher hold rates across gaming tables and slot machines, even as VIP and premium mass market demand remained subdued.

First-half GGR was unchanged at ₱31.1 billion. Net revenue for the second quarter advanced 11 percent to ₱14.1 billion, lifting six-month net revenue up one percent to ₱27.2 billion.

“We delivered GGR growth in the second quarter, supported by stronger hold rates across our gaming operations,” Bloomberry Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Enrique K. Razon Jr. said.

“Assertive cost management complemented higher revenues, driving EBITDA growth both sequentially and year-over-year,” he added.

Razon noted that strict expense controls held cash operating expense growth to three percent for the first half and five percent for the second quarter, despite macroeconomic headwinds including elevated crude oil prices, high interest rates, and a weaker peso.

To capture new growth, the operator of Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Solaire Resort Quezon City is pushing further into digital gaming. The company recently rolled out its FUNaloMax online gaming service on its proprietary platform, with Solaire Online scheduled to join the platform in the coming weeks.

At flagship property Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Entertainment City, second-quarter GGR expanded 18 percent to ₱11.5 billion, while non-gaming revenue fell six percent to ₱2 billion. The newer Solaire Resort Quezon City generated ₱4.9 billion in GGR, up nine percent, alongside ₱1.1 billion in non-gaming revenue.

Meanwhile, non-gaming facility Jeju Sun turned in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of ₱2.8 million for the quarter, reversing an EBITDA loss of ₱41.4 million a year earlier.

The performance marked the property’s first positive quarterly EBITDA since Bloomberry acquired it in 2015, following its exit from casino operations. (James A. Loyola)

And as in Part 1, I’ve loosely categorized this listing under Dining, then Culture and Museums, brunch and casual dining, and desserts. Broadway show recos can be found in Part 1.

It’s Dinner-Time

Balthazar has been THE institution for SoHo dining since 1997. Located on Spring Street, between Broadway and Crosby, it’s essentially a brasserie from Paris transplanted to SoHo. Still restaurateur Keith McNally’s crowning glory, and people swear by their steak frites. While there are several desserts worth trying, a special mention for the Sticky Toffee Pudding, with caramel sauce and Grand Marnier Fig Leaf ice cream, tops in my books!

Revelie Luncheonette on Prince St., SoHo, sits right across from its sister resto Raoul’s, which is known for its terrific steak au poivre. As Raoul’s is only open for dinner, we hit Revelie one afternoon for what turned out to be the best French dip of this trip. Its Wagyu beef with comté, caramelized onion, horseradish dill, and jus on a baguette. Try this, and tell me it isn’t French dip heaven.

Chada NYC, at 260 6th Avenue, between W. Houston St. and Bleecker, was our foray into Thai cuisine on this trip. Order the Steamed Branzino, butterfly fillet branzino with cabbage, cilantro, garlic, chili in lime broth. The lime broth was to die for, the branzino was expertly deboned, and along with simple steamed rice, was a stupendous light dinner. There’s a cool party vibe to Chada as night descends, but it’s really about the dynamic take on Thai dishes.

Creating your own Discovery Channel

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) takes up an entire block on the Upper West Side. If taking a car ride, head to Central Park West and 77th St. The last time I visited this museum would have been in the 1990s, and it was great to see how it had held up, and how there were so many visitors. You still can’t beat the life-size dinosaur fossils on display, the suspended 94-foot blue whale, and the Gallery of Gems.

The Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium opened in 2023, and is a terrific appendage to the museum. There are up to 80 species of live butterflies, homed in a lush 80 degrees Fahrenheit environment. The Vivarium is part of the Gilder Center, found on the Columbus Ave. side of the AMNH.

Brookfield Place on Battery Park, 230 Vesey St., is a waterfront office complex, with shopping and dining. I was attracted to drop by this ‘mall’ as it has a great view of the Hudson River and New Jersey, with the Statue of Liberty in the distance. The Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar Poke Bowl of Spicy Tuna was my early evening dinner choice.

For brunch and casual dining

Odd Sister on 45 Mercer St., SoHo, is a quaint American-inspired eating place that’s situated on a cobblestoned street. We had the Spicy Tuna on crispy rice as a starter, but it was the Short Rib Fried Rice, with jasmine rice, egg, soy, sesame, scallions, jalapeño and cilantro, that was the prize selection. It’s a big serving, and we had take-home for breakfast the next morning!

Banter NYC is on 169 Sullivan, just north of W. Houston. It’s a popular brekkie (one of the founders was an Aussie) and brunch joint, with an easy atmosphere, and a menu that aims for elevated, health-conscious fare. The Banter Bowl is carrot, cabbage, watermelon, radish, cucumber, edamame, avocado, quinoa, with a miso ponzu dressing. And we had the Bowl with the Plus Smoked Salmon. Truly a great brunch choice.

Give me liberty, or give me death by chocolate

How can I come to the last quarter of this report on New York, and not mention my Bagel discovery of the trip. This would be Liberty Bagels (multiple locations in the city), known for the hand rolling and kettle boiling of their bagels, and for the colorful, multi-hued Liberty and Rainbow bagels. Issa had their terrific Reuben bagel, while I indulged in the Novie, smoked salmon with avocado, tomato, and cream cheese, in an Everything bagel. Talk about having a full breakfast to start the day!

L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates on Prince St., SoHo, has the most original high-quality chocolates, as they come in animal shapes that are handmade, with no molds involved at all. From elephants, to cats, mice, penguins, rabbits, and rhinos! They have wonderful pastries as well. And ice cream, try the Apricot Elderflower!

Cacao Market by MarieBelle New York is at Broome St., SoHo, and is an artisanal chocolate boutique that boasts of hand-painted ganache truffles, and great chocolate bars. It’s whimsical and old-European in a great way, with a hidden Cacao Bar and Tea Salon within the premises. It’s a great discovery, easy to have overlooked on the street.

Batang New York, the last stop

Shout out to Naks at 201 First Avenue, and Sanwits at 149 First Avenue, in the East Village, for championing Filipino in the Manhattan food scene. Sanwits was recently featured in the New Yorker for its take on the French dip, but served with lechon instead of beef. Kudos to chef Eric Valdez, who leads the two eateries. For those who’ve traveled to Manhattan, and pine for our native flavors.

And this concludes my New York report. Cheering for Alex, and that she enjoys a deep run in this Slam, and praying she has peaked at the right time.

The Filipina ace received a first-round bye after being seeded 17th in the WTA 1000 tournament and now takes on the 28-year-old unseeded Romanian for the second time in the Tour.

Their first meeting came in the third qualifying round of the 2024 Australian Open, when Eala, then ranked No. 185, fell to the higher-ranked Ruse, who was No. 131 at the time, in three sets.

Much has changed since then. Eala has climbed to a career-high No. 21 in the world, while Ruse currently sits at No. 77.

Ruse opened her Cincinnati campaign in dominant fashion, clobbering Magda Linette, 6-0, 6-3. The Romanian, who ranked as high as No. 55, is also a proven doubles player, having reached the Grand Slam semifinals twice.

Eala, meanwhile, enters the tournament boosting with confidence after a brief respite following a grueling two-week stretch. She captured her breakthrough WTA Tour singles title at the Mubadala DC Open in Washington DC before finishing in the Round of 16 at the National Bank Open in Toronto, Canada.

The 21-year-old Filipina is expected to carry that momentum into Cincinnati as she continues her buildup toward the US Open later this month.

With a tougher test awaiting in Ruse, Eala will have another chance to measure her progress against an opponent she has already faced -- and one she is now meeting from a very different position in the rankings.

A potential showdown against reigning Wimbledon champion and sixth seed Linda Noskova also awaits the Filipina deeper into the draw, while other notable players in her bracket are two-time Grand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova, No. 27 Clara Tauson, No. 15 Sorana Cirstea and third seed Jessica Pegula.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Friday, Aug. 14, Alsons reported that net income rose to ₱1.7 billion in January to June from ₱1.3 billion in the same period a year earlier.

Growth was anchored by higher energy delivery volumes across its generation portfolio and sustained expansion in its retail electricity sales business.

Earnings accelerated sharply during the second quarter, with net income surging 270 percent to ₱321 million from ₱86 million in the same quarter of 2025.

“In an environment of high power demand, economic challenges, and the effects of natural calamities putting facilities offline, our priority was to keep our plants available and continue delivering reliable electricity to our customers when they needed it most,” Joaquin Ramos, chief finance officer of Alsons Consolidated, said.

The energy provider attributed its financial gains to higher generation dispatch, operational efficiency improvements, and strict cost controls. Commercial momentum within its retail electricity unit also helped mitigate broader macroeconomic pressures and global energy market volatility.

“Our first-half performance demonstrates our ability to deliver on our commitments, even under challenging conditions,” Ramos said. 
“As we navigate the challenges and expand our presence in the electricity market, we remain true to providing dependable power to our customers while positioning the company for sustainable long-term growth,” he added. (Gabriell Christel Galang)

Minority congressmen are up in arms over a Pasig City regional trial court (RTC) ruling that is prolonging the implementation of the P85 wage hike for workers in the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila.

Thursday, Aug. 13 was the last day of the temporary restraining order (TRO) Pasig City RTC Branch 152 against the implementation of the NCR wage hike. However, the court also issued a preliminary injunction against the salary adjustment on tje same day.

"Ibig sabihin, hindi maipapatupad ang wage hike habang pending ang kaso sa korte. Nakakalungkot ang kautusang ito," Assistant Minority Leader Akbayan Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno said.

(This means the wage hike cannot be implemented while the case is pending in court.This order is disheartening.)

"Malinaw na nakasaad sa Article 126 ng Labor Code na bawal maglabas ang anumang hukuman ng TRO at maging preliminary o permanent injunction laban sa anumang wage order. Ang tamang proseso para sa pag-apela ng isang wage order ay nasa Article 123 ng Labor Code, at hindi ito inihahain sa [RTC]," he pointed out.

(Article 126 of the Labor Code clearly states that no court may issue a TRO or even a preliminary or permanent injunction against any wage order. The proper process for appealing a wage order is found in Article 123 of the Labor Code, and it is not filed in the RTC.)

Senior Deputy Minority Leader Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima echoed Diokno's frustration over the court's actions.

"Mahiya at kilabutan naman ang mga may kagagawan nito (Those responsible should feel shame and fear)," she said.

"It’s deeply frustrating and disappointing that the injustice and suffering endured by our workers are being further prolonged by a court decision that violates the Labor Code," noted De Lima.

"Di natin kailanman mauunawaan at matatanggap kung bakit pahirapan pang maibigay sa hirap na hirap na nating mga manggagawa ang kakarampot na nga lang na pagtaas sa kanilang kita. This is long overdue and far less than what they truly deserve to receive," she said.

(We can never understand nor accept why it is made so difficult to give our struggling workers even this meager increase in their income.)

Injunction bond 'message' slammed 

De Lima especially assailed the P10-billion injunction bond.

"What message is being conveyed by requiring a P10 billion injunction bond? Na mas gugustuhin pang mag-post ng bond ng mga petitioners-employers na may ganyang napakalaking halaga kesa ibigay sa mga manggagawa ang P85 na umento?

(Is it because the petitioners-employers would rather post a bond of such a huge amount than give workers the P85 increase?)

"Eh di ba ang idinadahilan nga sa pagharang sa umento ay hindi raw kakayanin ang hinihinging dagdag pasahod?" she asked.

(Isn’t their reason for blocking the increase that they supposedly cannot afford the additional wages?)

As a parting shot, Diokno said: "Sa taas ng presyo ng bilihin, hindi nga sapat ang P85 wage hike para sa pangangailangan ng mga manggagawa at kanilang mga pamilya. Nananawagan tayo sa mga kasamahan natin sa Kongreso: Ipasa at isabatas na ang P200 daily wage hike na isinusulong ng Akbayan Party-list sa lalong madaling panahon."

(With the high prices of goods, the P85 wage hike is not even enough for the needs of workers and their families. We call on our colleagues in Congress: Pass and enact the P200 daily wage hike being pushed by the Akbayan Party-list as soon as possible.)

An Issuer Credit Rating reflects an opinion on a company's overall creditworthiness and its ability to meet all financial obligations within a one-year horizon.

A rating of PRS Aa (corp.) indicates a strong capacity to meet financial commitments relative to other Philippine corporates, differing only slightly from the highest-rated entities.

PhilRatings noted that the assigned rating and outlook account for CREC’s strong growth trajectory despite its relatively short operating history, supported by vertically integrated operations and robust industry support for renewable energy.

The rating agency also highlighted CREC’s ability to secure investments and forge strategic partnerships with reputable institutions, its profitability and cash flow generation backed by long-term contracts, and its manageable capital structure despite aggressive expansion in a capital-intensive sector.

Since launching in 2015, CREC has significantly expanded its operations, growing from three operating assets with a combined capacity of 103 megawatts (MW) to 21 solar assets with a total capacity of 1,218 MW as of end-June 2026. Under its "5 Gigawatts (GW) in 5 Years Roadmap," the company targets adding an average capacity of 1 GW per year through 2029.

Although CREC’s operational portfolio is currently purely solar, the company plans to diversify into onshore wind power.

In 2023, CREC secured 360 MW of wind projects under the Department of Energy’s second Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP 2). These projects will be developed through a joint venture with Levanta Renewables, beginning with CREC’s maiden wind project—a 45-MW facility in Camarines Sur—which has yet to begin construction.

Looking ahead, CREC’s electricity sales are expected to remain on an upward trajectory as additional solar projects commence commercial operations. While near-term profitability may be tempered by higher finance costs tied to the company's aggressive expansion, earnings and profit margins are projected to improve over the medium term as its operational renewable energy portfolio expands.

The weather disturbances affected 1,253,010 families or 4,344,354 persons in 10 regions namely Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Ilocos (Region 1), Cagayan Valley (Region 2), National Capital Region (NCR), Central Luzon (Region 3), Calabarzon (Region 4A), Mimaropa (Region 4B), Bicol (Region 5), Western Visayas (Region 6) and Zamboanga Peninsula (Region 9).

Of the affected population, 14,605 families or 52,087 persons were being assisted inside 533 evacuation centers while another 13,725 families or 50,515 persons were served outside temporary shelters.

The 47 areas under a state of calamity were spread across three regions: one was in Region 1, 22 were in Region 3, and 24 were in Calabarzon.

Dagupan City in Pangasinan was placed under a state of calamity in Region 1. In Region 3, the declaration covered Calumpit in Bulacan and Pampanga province-wide, involving 21 cities and municipalities.

In Calabarzon, the declaration covered Rodriguez in Rizal and 23 cities and municipalities across Cavite.

The weather disturbances left 21 people dead, 17 injured, and three missing.

Fifteen of the fatalities were recorded in CAR and six in Calabarzon. Benguet alone recorded 15 deaths, with two in La Trinidad, 10 in Baguio and three in Atok. All were attributed to landslides.

Rizal recorded three deaths: two were caused by a rockslide in Rodriguez while one person died after being hit by a fallen tree in Antipolo.

Batangas also recorded three deaths: one was due to drowning in Batangas City, one to electrocution in Lipa, and one to a landslide in Santa Teresita.

The 17 injured included one in Ilocos Sur, 14 in CAR and two in Calabarzon.

In Benguet, 12 people were injured: two were from La Trinidad, eight from Baguio, one from Atok and one from Buguias, where the injury was caused by a fallen tree.

Two people were injured in La Paz, Abra while another was injured by strong currents in Rodriguez, Rizal. A person in Naic, Cavite, was also injured in a vehicular accident.

Three people remained missing: one was reported in Alaminos, Pangasinan, another was reported in Batangas City while the third was in Candelaria, Quezon.

PNP comes to aid in flooded areas

Flooding remained a major concern in several areas and the Philippine National Police (PNP) ordered police commanders to work with local governments and schools to protect students who may be stranded after sudden class suspensions.

Flooding was reported in 450 areas, with Region 3 accounting for 389 of these areas, followed by Region 1 with 57, Calabarzon with three, and Mimaropa with one.

Floodwaters had subsided in 567 areas while conditions were reported as receding in 41 areas.

Classes were suspended in 577 areas across Regions 1, 2, CAR, 3, NCR, Calabarzon and Mimaropa while work suspensions were reported in 443 areas in the same regions.

The scale of the flooding prompted the PNP to focus on areas where students could face danger after classes are suspended.

Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP Chief, ordered police commanders, particularly those in urban and flood-prone areas, to coordinate with local government units and schools in monitoring students who may be stranded.

“This is a task that requires coordination to come up with the best systematic measure to ensure the safety and welfare of our learners, especially those in the grade school and junior high school levels,” Nartatez said.

The directive followed reports of students being stranded during bad weather, prompting Nartatez to order increased police visibility along routes commonly used by students including school zones, transport hubs, major roads, and flood-prone areas.

“We are directing our personnel to coordinate with local authorities and schools, monitor areas prone to flooding, and provide immediate assistance when needed,” he said.

The PNP said patrols would help identify students who become stranded or need assistance while traveling home. Police officers would also help keep students away from flooded roads and other hazards while coordinating with emergency responders.

“We remind our police officers to remain visible and responsive during weather-related disruptions. The safety of our students and the public remains our priority,” Nartatez said.

The rains and flooding also affected 738 road sections and 38 bridges. A total of 165 roads and 13 bridges remained impassable.

The affected roads included 68 in Region 1, three in Region 2, 10 in CAR, 63 in Region 3, 20 in Calabarzon and one in Region 6. The impassable bridges included three each in Regions 1 and 2, four in Region 3, and three in Calabarzon.

Interruptions

Power service interruption was reported in 87 cities and municipalities. Eight areas still had interruptions while service had been restored in 79 areas in Regions 1, CAR, 3, Calabarzon and Mimaropa.

Water supply was affected in six cities and municipalities in Region 1 and Calabarzon: two areas had interruptions while four had restored service.

Further, communication lines were affected in five cities and municipalities. All had been restored in Region 1.

Agri, infra damage

Meanwhile, agriculture sustained P390.95 million in damage and losses, with Region 3 recording the largest amount at P183.15 million, followed by Region 1 at P148.81 million, and Mimaropa at P53.37 million.

Region 2 recorded P2.66 million in agricultural damage and losses, Calabarzon reported P2.59 million, while Region 6 reported P384,034.

Infrastructure damage was estimated at P3.32 billion and CAR accounted for the biggest loss at P1.62 billion, followed by Region 1 for P1.17 billion, and Calabarzon for P537.95 million.

A total of 1,460 houses were also damaged, of which, 1,350 were partially damaged and 110 were totally destroyed.

The government has provided P507.85 million in assistance to affected families.

Of the 683,820 families identified as needing assistance, 79,683 had been assisted, equivalent to 11.65 percent.

As of 8 a.m. Friday, the dam’s water level rose to 180.10 meters, up 1.31 meters from 178.79 meters recorded the previous day.

The 180-meter mark is Angat Dam’s minimum operating level, an important threshold used in managing the reservoir’s water supply.

When the water level falls below this point, the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) may reduce water allocations as available supply becomes more limited, while prioritizing domestic water needs.

Meanwhile, Angat’s 160-meter mark is considered its critical level, indicating a more serious shortage and the need for tighter water management.

The dam’s return to the minimum operating level marks a significant improvement after its water level plunged to a record-low 150.6 meters on July 25, when it was also below the critical level.

Despite the recovery, Angat Dam remains nearly 30 meters below its 210-meter normal high water level during the rainy season.

Continued gains are needed to build up the reservoir’s water reserves ahead of the next dry season.

Meanwhile, Ambuklao and Binga dams in Benguet continued to release water on Friday.

Ambuklao Dam’s water level was at 751.61 meters, just 0.19 meter below its normal high water level, while Binga Dam was at 574.89 meters, or 0.08 meter below its normal high water level.

The two dams form part of a cascading dam system, with San Roque Dam in Pangasinan receiving most of the water they release.

As of Friday, San Roque Dam’s water level continued to rise, reaching 266.20 meters, but it remained below its 280-meter normal high water level.

The suspect, identified as alias John Michael, a resident of Barangay Palingon Tipas, was classified by the Taguig police as a most wanted person.

Police officers served a warrant of arrest at his residence on Magsalin Street in the barangay.

The warrant, with no bail recommended, was issued on Aug. 11 by Presiding Judge Romeo Carmelito Caneja Conge of the Binangonan, Rizal Regional Trial Court Branch 67 for two cases of carnapping (Section 3 of Republic Act 10883) and robbery (Article 294 of the Revised Penal Code).

The suspect was brought to the Taguig City Health Office for medical examination before being turned over to the Warrant and Subpoena Section office.

Southern Police District director Brig. Gen. Glenn Oliver Cinco lauded the Taguig police for their efforts to track down wanted persons.

According to Taguig police, at about 11:40 a.m., the victim was preparing to go to school inside their residence when she was confronted by the suspect, identified as alias “RRCP.”

Fearing for her safety, the victim immediately left the house and reported the incident to a friend and her friend’s mother, who promptly sought assistance from barangay authorities.

Barangay Security Force (BSF) officers apprehended the suspect and turned him over to personnel of Taguig Police Sub-Station 10.

The suspect was brought to the police station for documentation and will face criminal charges for violation of Article 336 (acts of lasciviousness) of the Revised Penal Code.

Southern Police District director Brig. Gen. Glenn Oliver Cinco commended the Taguig police and barangay officials for their swift action.

Jollibee brought home 11 awards at the 2026 Marketing Excellence Awards, including Gold for Marketing Team of the Year, adding to the brand's recent recognition at the YouTube Works Awards Philippines.

The Philippines' number one fast food chain was recognized across categories covering digital commerce, customer engagement, content marketing, influencer marketing, advertising, and mobile marketing, further highlighting the breadth of its marketing work across platforms and consumer touchpoints.


“These awards belong to every member of our marketing team and our agency partners, whose passion and creativity bring the joy of Jollibee to life. We are deeply honored by this recognition, especially being named Marketing Team of the Year. It inspires us to keep raising the bar and creating meaningful work that resonates with Filipinos and makes a real difference in their lives,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines.

The Jollibee App led the company's digital wins, earning Gold for Excellence in Omnichannel Marketing, Silver for Excellence in e-Commerce Marketing and Launch Marketing, and Bronze for Excellence in Performance Marketing. National Day of Joy and Jollibee Joy Run also earned Gold for Excellence in Customer Engagement and Excellence in Mobile Marketing, respectively.

Jolly Takam Shots received Silver for Excellence in Content Marketing, while JolliCreators earned Silver for Excellence in Influencer/KOLs Marketing. GameJoy Combos won Bronze for Excellence in Advertising, while Ching was also recognized with Bronze for Marketing Leader of the Year.

The 11 recognitions highlight Jollibee's marketing efforts across brand building, digital commerce, customer engagement, community initiatives, gaming, and creator partnerships.

The Marketing Excellence Awards is an annual awards program organized by Marketing-Interactive that recognizes marketing campaigns, teams, and industry leaders for creativity, innovation, and business impact.

Jollibee also recently received recognition at the YouTube Works Awards Philippines for its 2025 Christmas campaign, Buo ang Saya ng Pasko. The campaign won the Multiformat Storytelling category and was named 2nd runner-up for Best of Philippines.

The YouTube Works Awards celebrate the most innovative, creative, and effective advertising campaigns on YouTube, recognizing work that demonstrates how the platform can drive meaningful impact for brands and audiences.

Together, the recognitions reflect Jollibee's continued performance across major marketing awards programs, with its work being recognized for creativity, innovation, consumer engagement, and the ability to translate brand ideas into meaningful experiences for Filipinos.

Philip Morris Philippines, composed of PMFTC Inc. and PMI Business Solutions (Philippines) Inc. (PMIBS), has bagged the Great Place To Work certification, reaffirming its commitment to building a workplace culture anchored on trust, inclusion, collaboration, and continuous growth.

The recognition reflects the company’s sustained focus on creating an environment where employees can thrive while contributing to its smoke-free transformation.

Joseph Gruber, Head of People & Culture at PMFTC, said the recognition reflects the company’s belief that business transformation begins with its people.

“Earning this certification for the first time is especially meaningful because it comes directly from the voices of our employees. Their trust and commitment make PMFTC and PMIBS truly great places to work, where everyone feels empowered to grow and inspired to contribute to our shared purpose of delivering a smoke-free future. When our people succeed and feel valued, our business transformation becomes stronger and more sustainable,” he said.

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors associated with strong business performance, employee retention, and innovation. It is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work.

“By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Philip Morris Philippines (PMFTC/PMIBS) stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees,” she added.

The Philippine certification builds on a growing number of Great Place To Work recognitions received by Philip Morris International (PMI) affiliates around the world. For 2025-2026, six PMI affiliates have earned Great Place To Work certifications across Latin America, Asia, and Europe, reflecting the company’s broader focus on creating positive employee experiences across its global operations.

The latest milestone brings Philip Morris Philippines alongside other PMI affiliates around the world that have received Great Place To Work recognition, reinforcing the company’s commitment to investing in its people as it continues its aim to actively deliver a smoke-free future.

President Marcos has vowed to hold accountable all individuals responsible for the anomalous implementation of government infrastructure projects, stressing that the government must ensure these projects deliver the protection and services Filipinos need.

Speaking at the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) Presidential Luncheon in Manila on Friday, Aug. 14, Marcos said the commitment he made during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) last month remains a priority as the country faces heightened risks from flooding during the rainy season.

“We will hold accountable all individuals responsible for the anomalous implementation of government infrastructure projects,” he said.

The President said the accountability drive must go hand in hand with ensuring that infrastructure projects actually deliver the services required by communities.

Flood mitigation

President Marcos said the need to strengthen flood mitigation and disaster preparedness has become more urgent as communities across the country face increased risks from flooding and other hazards associated with the rainy season.

“We are strengthening flood mitigation and disaster preparedness, and accelerating the implementation of critical interventions,” he said.

Marcos stressed that public funds used for infrastructure projects must result in tangible protection for communities.

“Every peso invested in these projects must translate into real protection for our people and our communities,” he said.

Government credibility, public trust

Meanwhile, Marcos said effective governance should not be measured only by the projects the government builds, but also by the trust it earns from the public.

He said credibility is a shared responsibility between government and the media, particularly as false, fabricated, AI-generated, and deliberately manipulated information can spread rapidly across digital platforms.

“In that regard, you, in your role as journalists, and I, as a public servant, have something important in common: our credibility,” Marcos said, adding that credibility is the foundation of their work and the bedrock of public trust.

Marcos said a responsible and independent media remains essential in informing the public, scrutinizing those in power, and helping ensure that facts prevail over speculation and fake news.