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The City of Bais has been officially placed under a State of Calamity following the approval of its city council after the massive contamination of coastal waters and the degradation of marine ecosystems in North Bais Bay caused by the spent wash spill from the Universal Robina Corporation (URC) ethanol facility.

The declaration, endorsed by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) and the City Development Council-Executive Committee, was unanimously approved by the city council on October 30, 2025.

According to the resolution, the wastewater spillage from URC’s ethanol distillery plant on October 24, 2025, resulted in the severe discoloration of North Bais Bay and affected marine life within the Tañon Strait, a protected seascape and major fishing ground.

On October 28, Bais City Mayor Luigi Marcel Goñi ordered the temporary suspension of URC’s operations to prevent further damage to the area’s marine ecosystems. The order will only be lifted once the company submits and implements a verified long-term solution to prevent similar incidents.

The City Council noted that the spill has severely affected the livelihoods of local fishermen, fish market vendors, and tourism operators, particularly those connected to the White Sand Bar and related sea activities.

These economic losses were compounded by the suspension of sea travel and tourism activities under an executive order and a Coast Guard advisory issued on October 27.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Negros Island Region (DENR-NIR) also released situational reports confirming the environmental impact of the spill, prompting the city to mobilize emergency resources and provide assistance to affected residents.

Following the incident, Oceana Philippines, an international marine conservation organization, called on the government to hold URC and relevant agencies accountable for what it described as an ‘ecological and economic crisis’ in the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS).

Oceana warned that the spill poses serious and lasting threats to marine biodiversity, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and the livelihoods of communities that depend on the strait’s fishing grounds. The Tañon Strait is home to 14 species of whales and dolphins and is the country’s largest marine protected area.

‘The URC cannot simply get away with a mere slap on the wrist just like the minor fines imposed in a similar incident in 2018,’ said Von Hernandez, Oceana Vice President.

He added that the fact that this facility, located within a protected seascape, has had a similar accident raises serious questions about the adequacy of its Environmental Compliance Certificate and disaster preparedness.

The group also urged transparency in the investigation, calling for a review of the facility’s Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to determine whether safeguards required under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act of 2018 were properly implemented.

Oceana demanded urgent cleanup, fair compensation for affected families, and stronger preventive measures to stop the spread of ethanol pollution to nearby areas.

In response, Universal Robina Corporation earlier said it had deployed 127 personnel and 20 members of the Philippine Coast Guard to expedite dike repairs and marine cleanup operations in coordination with local authorities.

‘The new dike will be reinforced and strengthened with rubber tires and boulders to make it withstand the relentless rains and earthquake that caused its breach last October 26,’ URC said in a statement.

The company also pledged to continue providing relief assistance to affected families in Bais City and Manjuyod, and to collaborate with environmental experts for the long-term ecological rehabilitation and restoration of the affected marine zones.

Severe Tropical Storm Tino (international name Kalmaegi) intensified over the Philippine Sea yesterday as it continued to move westward toward the Visayas, bringing the threat of heavy rains, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

As of 4 p.m. yesterday, the storm’s center was estimated at 805 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas with maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 115 kph, moving westward at 30 kph.

PAGASA raised tropical cyclone wind signal No. 1 over Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and the Camotes Islands in the Visayas, and Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte in Mindanao.

These areas may experience strong winds (39 to 61 kph) and minimal to minor damage to life and property within the next 36 hours.

The weather bureau said the highest wind signal likely to be raised during Tino’s passage could reach Signal No. 4.

PAGASA said Tino is expected to continue tracking westward, and may make landfall over Eastern Samar or Dinagat Islands. The system is forecast to cross Visayas and northern Palawan before exiting into the West Philippine Sea by Wednesday.

The storm is expected to further strengthen into a typhoon within 24 hours, possibly reaching peak winds of 150 to 165 kph upon landfall. PAGASA added that rapid intensification remains possible, and Tino could reach super typhoon status based on current climatological data.

On its Facebook page, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District Western Visayas, headed by Commodore Ludovico Librilla Jr., announced that all its stations are already on full alert.

The PCG District Eastern Visayas said it has deployed 35 coast guard personnel, who are members of their deployable response group (DRG), to their stations.

The DRG teams were sent to Eastern Leyte, Biliran, Eastern Samar and Southern Leyte.

Aside from preparing for Tino, the Coast Guard are monitoring seaports all over the country because of Oplan Byaheng Ayos: Undas 2025. They anticipate an influx of sea passengers who would be returning home from the long weekend.

DSWD on full alert

The Department of Social Welfare and Development assures the public that all of its field offices are on full alert and prepared to deliver immediate assistance.

As of publication, a total of 558,098 family food packs are already prepositioned across DSWD warehouses nationwide. This includes 122,884 food packs in MIMAROPA, 89,566 in Region 6 (Western Visayas), 70,799 in the Negros Island Region, 71,539 in Region 7 (Central Visayas), 121,331 in Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) and 81,989 food boxes in CARAGA.

9,558 schools at risk of flooding

The Department of Education’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) yesterday released its ‘Preparedness for Response, Tropical Storm Tino and Shearline.’

It mentioned that Tino and the associated shearline ‘may impact 9,558 schools at risk of flooding and 15,668 schools at risk of rain-induced landslides’ in 109 school divisions.

Meanwhile, Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado announced the suspension of classes in all levels, for both public schools and private schools, in the province.

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Trenas also announced the suspension of face-to-face classes.

The University of the Philippines Visayas said they would be shifting from face-to-face classes to online mode today.

Eastern Visayas State University announced as early as Nov. 1 that it would implement adjusted work and class arrangement across all campuses.

The Visayas State University also posted its own advisory for today, ‘flexible work arrangements remain in effect. Offices may allow limited on-site work, as agreed with their heads, to secure the facilities and equipment.’

The 5150 Triathlon Series continues to grow its global footprint, discovering new destinations that blend the thrill of racing with the richness of local culture.

Next year, the world-class series will reach new shores with the debut of 5150 Camiguin, set to take place on May 3, 2026, in the island province of Camiguin, Northern Mindanao.

Known as the ‘Island Born of Fire,’ Camiguin is a tropical gem renowned for its seven volcanoes, pristine white sandbars, and centuries-old heritage sites. The island’s breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality will offer triathletes a truly memorable race experience – one that highlights both adventure and cultural discovery.

The 5150 Camiguin will mark another milestone for the Philippines’ growing triathlon community and tourism industry. Athletes will dive into the crystal-clear waters off Old Catarman, racing past the iconic Sunken Cemetery Monument, one of Camiguin’s most striking landmarks. The bike course follows a scenic two-loop route along the island’s Circumferential Road, showcasing panoramic coastal views and lush countryside.

The concluding race stage will culminate at the Camiguin Sports Complex, where participants will be greeted by cheering locals and a festive island atmosphere.

Camiguin Governor Xavier Romualdo hailed the 5150 event as a major step forward in promoting the island as a sustainable tourism and sports hub.

‘We are proud to welcome triathletes from across the Philippines and around the world to experience Camiguin, not just as a destination, but as a community that celebrates nature, culture, and active living,’ said Romualdo. ‘Hosting the 5150 Triathlon reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and showcasing the island’s natural wonders in a responsible and exciting way.’

For Princess Galura, president and general manager of the organizing Sunrise Events Inc., bringing the 5150 series to Camiguin is about more than racing – it’s about sharing the spirit of the island.

‘Each 5150 race is designed to highlight the beauty of its host destination, and Camiguin – with its Sunken Cemetery, coastal roads, and warm community- is an unforgettable addition to our calendar,’ she said. ‘Camiguin embodies the best of what makes racing in the Philippines special: breathtaking scenery, a supportive local community, and an atmosphere of genuine warmth.’

Since 2009, SEI., the exclusive licensee of the IRONMAN brand in the Philippines, has been at the forefront of growing the triathlon scene nationwide.

Through world-class events across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, SEI has introduced global racing standards to iconic Philippine destinations such as Subic Bay, Lapu-Lapu City, Puerto Princesa, Cebu and Manila.

The 5150 Triathlon Series, modeled after the Olympic-distance format (1.5 km swim, 40 km bike, 10 km run), has gained immense popularity for its accessibility to both elite and amateur athletes. Previous 5150 races in Bohol, Dapitan and Subic Bay have drawn thousands of participants, with upcoming races scheduled in Bataan (November 2025) and Guimaras (March 2026).

Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro Jr. said that Manila’s growing defense partnerships are helping ‘expose’ Beijing’s expansionist ambitions in the South China Sea, as the Philippines signed its fifth Visiting Forces Agreement – this time with Canada.

‘Definitely, it has an impact,’ Teodoro told reporters when asked whether these alliances have made a difference amid Beijing’s persistent harassment of Philippine vessels. ‘It serves to put to light the true intentions of China. It is not pacific at all. Peace-loving – and yet they do this? That is the reality people should see.’

The Philippines now has VFAs signed with the United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and Canada, alliances that Teodoro believes are tangible support from like-minded countries supporting the rule of law in the region.

Manila’s agreements with New Zealand and Canada have not yet entered into force, as they require both the president’s ratification and Senate concurrence.

On Sunday, Teodoro accused China of masking its global ambitions with rhetoric about peace and cooperation, saying its actions from ‘the Baltics to the Pacific Islands, Australia, and even South America’ show otherwise.

‘So who is hegemonic? Who wants to expand their power across the world? China,’ the DND secretary said in mixed English and Filipino. ‘That’s fine with us, as long as they don’t interfere here. What we are asking is that they leave the West Philippine Sea – that’s 800 kilometers away from them.’

China has recently stepped up its patrols and restricted Philippine vessels’ access to Scarborough Shoal amid its plans to put up a “nature reserve” over a large swath of the atoll.

This area, Teodoro noted, is an artisanal fishing ground that international law says no country can barricade as theirs exclusively.

‘That’s a violation,’ he said. ‘Of course, there will be a proper response.’

The VFA with Canada, signed in Manila yesterday by Teodoro and Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty, allows both countries’ troops to train and operate on each other’s soil. It also opens the door to joint exercises and disaster response cooperation, according to officials.

Beijing has repeatedly denounced the Philippines’ joint patrols with its allies in the West Philippine Sea as ‘provocative,’ while Manila maintains that the operations are lawful and conducted within its exclusive economic zone.

On the sidelines of the Frankfurt book fair, over many breakfasts and cups of coffee with fellow writers, the tangled web of Philippine politics inevitably came up for discussion, particularly at this juncture when it seems imperative to sort out the good from the bad (or, to account for the nuances of the moment, the better from the worse).

One interesting idea that came up from a seasoned journalist in the group was the suggestion to create a Truth Commission to receive the testimonies of tokhang survivors and the families of victims, presumably in support of the case against former president Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court.

The legalities aside – as we don’t know if these statements would even be admissible as evidence – it was argued that what was more important was to compile a dossier of stories, for the people to know now and for the historians and critics to evaluate later. That way, whatever happens in the courts – including the possibility that nothing ever will – a trail of blood and accountability will have been established, an ineradicable record of state-sponsored crime against its own citizens.

Most of us will recall that South Africa set up a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in 1994 – at the end of apartheid and upon the assumption to the presidency of Nelson Mandela – to hear from victims of human rights violations and to dispense justice, following the principle of ‘forgiveness over prosecution, and reparation over retaliation.’ We ourselves briefly had a Philippine Truth Commission in 2010 at the urging of new president Noynoy Aquino, organized to investigate graft and corruption under the previous administration, until it was declared unconstitutional even before it could do any real work.

Mandela’s government supported the TRC, led by Archbishop (and later Nobel Peace Laureate) Desmond Tutu, keenly aware of the need to heal the deep wounds left by apartheid so South Africans could move forward to the bright new future that beckoned then.

But that was 30 years ago, and South Africa today remains far from Mandela’s vision of a just and prosperous ‘Rainbow Nation.’ The country remains saddled with corruption and crime, lorded over by new political and economic elites. Despite some successes in its mission of bringing out the truth, in the eyes of many, the TRC failed in what people expected to follow: punishing the guilty and bringing restitution to the victims. (Interestingly, after initially planning to conduct its hearings behind closed doors, the TRC yielded to public pressure and allowed its hearings to be broadcast on radio and television, even appearing as a Sunday TV program.)

In an article for the Nelson Mandela Foundation published online last January, foundation consultant Verne Harris looked back on the TRC’s establishment and pointed out its weaknesses:

‘The TRC made wide-ranging recommendations, so wide in fact that it would not be inaccurate to call them a provisional agenda for societal transformation. In my reading of the recommendations, three areas loomed largest in addition to the question of prosecutions: 1) for the longer term healing of a traumatized society to be supported, the state (guided by the ANC) had to find a way of turning the TRC’s own highly stylized performance of testimony into durable community-based spaces for remembering and storytelling; 2) the TRC’s limited short-term reparations work had to be expanded and connected to South Africa’s other special instruments for restitution in ways that would contribute meaningfully to a broader societal restructuring, informed fundamentally by a redistribution of wealth and 3) the archive assembled by the TRC would have to be built on determinedly and made as accessible as possible both to the public and to the continuing work outlined above. All of these outcomes, of course, were structurally out of the TRC’s hands. They were in the hands of the ruling party and institutions of the state.

‘The TRC got a lot wrong, without a doubt. But from the perspective of 2025, it is relatively easy to see that the fundamental failure of the TRC as an instrument of restitution and transformation has to do with the fact that the springboard which it created for continuing work was instead turned into an inert museum artefact by prevailing relations of power. Why did that happen? What went wrong?

‘. Elements within the African National Congress (ANC), led by Nelson Mandela, had every intention of turning the TRC springboard into continuing longer term restorative work, but that after Mandela, both the ANC and institutions of the state quickly became dominated by constellations of power having a vested interest in shelving TRC recommendations and simply moving on. So, for example, as Du Toit reminds us, in 1999 Mandela was crystal clear on the need for prosecutions: ‘Accountability does need to be established and, where evidence exists of a serious crime, prosecution should be instituted within a fixed time frame. That time frame needs to be realistic . for we cannot afford as a nation and as government to be saddled with unending judicial processes.’ And yet, the subsequent failure to take up prosecutions seriously – there have been a handful of isolated cases and a litany of laughable promises to ‘start the process’ – has meant that the ANC has overseen what amounts to a blanket amnesty, the very outcome the leadership had rejected in the early 1990s.’

What we learn from here is that good intentions and even the truth itself can’t ever be enough; once the truth is out, speedy prosecution and commensurate punishment have to follow, or what began as a moral imperative ends up as a sham and eventually a betrayal of the public trust. This bears remembering when we look at the current work of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, on the results of which a nation’s hopes for deep and overdue reform hang.

My own pedestrian response to the suggestion for a Truth Commission for extrajudicial killings during the Duterte regime was to dissent. Bringing out the truth was a good idea, I said – but we already have a Human Rights Commission to do that. Let it do its job. If it won’t – like an ombudsman more interested in setting crooks free – then let’s exert pressure to put the right people in place.

It’s about time we put bloody revolutions, street uprisings, special commissions and other such shortcuts to democracy aside. We have to make the system work, hold people (beginning with our leaders) accountable and bring justice back to the mainstream.

Three police officers were arrested for alarm and scandal after causing a commotion in a bar in Barangay Sikatuna Village, Quezon City on Friday.

Acting Quezon City Police District director Col. Randy Glenn Silvio said the incident happened at around 2 a.m. after QCPD personnel responded to a 911 call about a disturbance in the bar.

Upon arrival, police found broken beer bottles scattered on the floor.

Recovered from the suspects were two 9mm pistols, magazines loaded with 25 live rounds and police identification cards.

When people think of alcoholic beverages, beer, wine or spirits often come first to mind. But long before these drinks were perfected, there was mead-a fermented honey drink so ancient it has been called the ‘nectar of the gods.’

Today, this golden beverage is making a comeback worldwide. And in the Philippines, one proudly homegrown brand is leading the way: La Mesa Mead by Coffeexmead.

What is mead?

Mead is an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting honey with water, sometimes enhanced with fruits, spices or botanicals. Unlike wine or beer, where grapes and grains take center stage, mead celebrates honey as its core ingredient.

Because honey varies depending on its source, no two batches are ever truly identical-giving mead its natural character and charm.

La Mesa-the brand’s name-is rooted in its home base in Barangay Greater Lagro near La Mesa Watershed in Quezon City.

This location also influences the honey used. Unlike highland-sourced honey from Benguet or Baguio, La Mesa Mead primarily uses honey harvested from the lowlands-Quezon City, Caloocan, Batangas and Naga-where native trees like Narra thrive.

The result is a mead that reflects the rich biodiversity of the lowland forests and watersheds of the Philippines.

La Mesa Mead works closely with a growing network of local beekeepers from QC, Caloocan, Batangas, Naga, even Baguio. This connection not only ensures authentic honey sourcing but also keeps the production firmly rooted in local partnerships.

A QCertified Filipino MSME

Coffeexmead, the maker of La Mesa Mead, is part of the inaugural batch of the QCertified Program of the Quezon City government.

This program, in partnership with the FDA, DTI, DOST and PUP, recognizes and supports MSMEs in achieving quality manufacturing standards. Being part of this first 12-company batch underscores La Mesa Mead’s commitment to quality and compliance in the emerging Philippine craft beverage scene.

The La Mesa Mead lineup

La Mesa Mead offers distinct expressions that reflect both tradition and innovation. Among its variants, four stand out:

1. La Mesa Mead Vida (10% ABV)

A tropical mead crafted with three times more honey than regular variants. Vida is silky and smooth, with subtle notes of pineapple, cacao nibs and Filipino spices. It is bright, lively and approachable-making it the most popular among Gen Z drinkers who prefer sweeter, honey-forward profiles.

2. La Mesa Mead Tagumpay (25% ABV)

A bold, premium mead that lives up to its name, ‘triumph.’ Tagumpay uses four times more honey than the standard variant, creating a full-bodied, layered experience. Smoky with a hint of the rare Mindanao cinnamon, cacao nibs, pineapple and native spices, this is the bottle for connoisseurs and liquor aficionados looking for strength and complexity.

3. La Mesa Mead Traditional (15% ABV)

Mead in its purest form-just honey, water and yeast. Traditional highlights the natural sweetness and depth of honey, with its color and flavor shifting subtly depending on the seasonal honey source. This variant is perfect for those seeking to experience mead in its most classic and authentic style.

4. La Mesa Mead Coffee (15% ABV)

A Filipino twist on mead that infuses Arabica coffee beans with honey fermentation. The result is a surprisingly balanced drink, blending the smooth richness of coffee with the natural sweetness of honey. Ideal for adventurous drinkers who want something unexpected.

Here are the flavor profiles:

Vida – Silky, honey-forward, tropical

Tagumpay – Bold, smoky, spiced, strong

Traditional – Classic, honey-rich, golden

Coffee – Earthy, smooth, lightly bitter-sweet

There are no strict rules in enjoying mead: drink it room temperature, chilled, on the rocks or in cocktails. Pair it with salty foods to balance its natural sweetness, or simply enjoy it on its own.

Experimentation, growth and future plans

Developing La Mesa Mead was not without challenges. More than 600 kilograms of honey were used in research and development, with countless trial batches discarded before the recipes were perfected especially as the company began to scale up production.

But that painstaking process led to the lineup today, each variant inspired by direct consumer feedback from bazaars, cocktail events and tastings.

La Mesa Mead aims to expand locally and eventually internationally, while also promoting mead awareness in the Philippines through press releases, social media campaigns, and ‘Mead Making 101’ training sessions starting next year.

By blending ancient tradition with local ingredients and modern innovation, La Mesa Mead invites Filipinos to rediscover the joy of mead: a festive, versatile and proudly local drink.

It’s easy to assume Okada Manila is just a fancy, luxury hotel, but one weekend here quickly proves otherwise.

Stepping into the Philippines’ only Forbes 5-star property, wandering its fresh-scented, colorful halls and settling into a room at the country’s largest integrated resort, you quickly realize it’s something far more.

From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed with a blend of impeccable Japanese service and warm Filipino hospitality-a combination that makes it easy to see why its five stars are well deserved.

Philstar.com BrandSpace recently spent a weekend at Okada Manila and quickly realized that a staycation here can become a full-fledged destination, where every suite, spa treatment and dining experience reflects the resort’s 5-star pedigree.

A suite that feels like its own retreat

Our home for the weekend was the Executive Suite, where sophistication meets comfort and the panorama-whether of Manila Bay or the iconic Fountain-sets the scene.

Spanning up to 250sqm, it’s probably the biggest room I’ve ever stayed in, laid out like an elegant apartment, complete with large living and dining areas, a private bar and a Nespresso machine for morning coffee rituals.

The bedroom features a king-size bed dressed in crisp cotton linens, while the marble bathroom-complete with a rain shower, designer amenities and a jacuzzi overlooking Manila Bay-invites unhurried moments of rest.

Every detail of our room felt purposeful, from the state-of-the-art toilets (yes, this needed to be noted!) down to the digital valet system, which lets you adjust lighting, curtains and temperature through a single touchscreen tablet.

Wellness, redefined at The Retreat Spa

If Okada Manila’s suites define comfort, The Retreat Spa defines rejuvenation-the kind of place where you happily lose track of time.

Occupying 3,000sqm, this Forbes five-star spa is a complete wellness destination.

We tried its signature Indayog ng Duyan massage, a deep-tissue therapy rooted in hilot, the Philippine system of healing. Strips of banana leaves, warmed in virgin coconut oil, guide the therapist’s touch, easing tension and restoring balance naturally.

Guests can also unwind in luxury treatment suites, a barbershop, beauty salon, aqua therapy facilities, or Southeast Asia’s first Wave Room relaxation chamber.

Every treatment is delivered by internationally trained specialists using premium skincare products, ensuring a deeply personal and restorative experience.

A world of flavors in one destination

Dining at Okada Manila brings global flavors together under one roof, with 40 dining outlets to satisfy every craving.

We had a hearty Japanese meal at Enbu that serves ramen, sushi and tempura, all with a view of The Fountain’s nightly performance. Guests can also watch seasoned chefs slow-grill the finest meats and local produce over charcoal, creating smoky, full-flavored dishes.

Meanwhile, we also ate at Goryeo which offers authentic, premier Korean barbecue with unlimited options and plated sets.

Highlights include the all-you-can-eat KBBQ feast, Galbi-jjim (braised short ribs), and comforting Budae Jjigae (army stew). State-of-the-art smokeless grills let diners enjoy sizzling flavors without smoke, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable meal.

For Italian fare, La Piazza pairs refined dishes with fine wines. Recommended dishes include seafood soup, ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce, pesto and quattro formaggi pizzas and ending on a sweet note with tiramisu with cappuccino.

For those looking to make their meals extra indulgent, La Piazza also boasts an award-winning wine library that has earned the ‘Best of Award of Excellence’ from Wine Spectator for two consecutive years.

Craving variety? Medley Buffet offers live cooking stations where chefs prepare international favorites from breakfast through dinner. We enjoyed breakfast here for two days, sampling everything from Indian dishes and Asian soups to Filipino breakfast staples and fresh pastries.

Okada Manila offers a wide array of cuisines and dining experiences, but one thing is clear: every restaurant reflects the resort’s commitment to detail and quality.

Catching the sunset and the spectacle at The Fountain

As the afternoon turned to gold, we made our way to The Pool-an infinity-edge escape overlooking Manila Bay. Watching the sun set from here is reason enough to linger.

The staff ensures your drink stays cold, the music stays soft and the moment feels just right.

It’s quite an experience that quietly captures Okada Manila’s spirit: indulgence balanced by ease.

At night, Okada Manila comes alive with The Fountain, Southeast Asia’s largest multicolor dancing fountain. Spanning over 37,000sqm-roughly 50 Olympic-sized pools-it combines lights, water and music in breathtaking harmony.

Performances run every 30 minutes and no matter how often you watch, or which music accompanies the show, it never loses its charm. Beneath the spectacle is cutting-edge technology: underwater robots, more than 2,000 lights and water jets that soar higher than the hotel’s façade.

It’s easy to see why people pause to watch every performance. More than just an attraction, The Fountain is the heartbeat of Okada Manila, a dazzling centerpiece that defines the resort experience.

Five-star indulgence, five-star experiences

Beyond the suites, Okada Manila offers even more ways to indulge.

The villas provide spacious private retreats with gardens, pools and butler service-perfect for family gatherings or intimate celebrations, as we saw at Villa Boracay.

Business travelers or guests seeking a quieter spot can retreat to the Executive Lounge on the 19th floor of the Coral Wing, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame Manila Bay and curated breakfast spreads, cocktails and light bites are served throughout the day.

High-end retail and a world-class gaming floor ensure there’s always something to do, while the lush resort garden offers a serene escape beneath the shadow of the massive Cove Manila dome, the resort’s signature events space for concerts, galas and milestone celebrations.

Okada Manila: A complete staycation, a complete destination

Between its premium suites, curated shopping boutique, gaming lounges and dining experiences, Okada Manila brings together everything guests might seek from a true integrated resort-all without leaving the property.

Here, our weekend wasn’t just a staycation but a full-blown destination experience. We woke up to stunning views of Manila Bay, pampered at a five-star spa, savored flavors from around the world and ended the night watching water dance to music at The Fountain.

What’s more, you can make your stay even more rewarding with the Okada Reward Circle, which lets you earn points every time you stay, play, dine, shop, party, or unwind. These points can be redeemed for exclusive offers-from dining experiences and hotel stays to special events organized by Okada Manila.

After our weekend here, it was clear: Okada Manila’s Forbes five-star rating is no mere accolade.

Every corner of the resort works in harmony to create a destination truly worthy of its stars, delivering a five-star experience that isn’t just read on badges or signage, but experienced and felt by every guest.

Plastic waste topped the list of trash left by visitors in cemeteries nationwide during Undas, according to monitoring by the EcoWaste Coalition.

According to the group’s statement on Sunday, November 2, disposable plastics, including bags, bottles, cups, cutlery, straws, and polystyrene food and beverage containers, were among the most common trash left by cemetery visitors.

‘SUPs, which are principally made of fossil fuels and intended for one-time use, are not easily recycled and contribute significantly to environmental degradation, wreaking havoc in the ecosystems and harming wildlife,’ Ochie Tolentino, campaigner of EcoWaste Coalition, said in a statement.

‘Unknown to many, SUPs contribute to the interconnected planetary crisis of climate emergency, pervasive pollution and biodiversity loss,’ he added.

The group said it monitored 25 public and private cemeteries from October 31 to November 2, including major sites like the Manila North Cemetery and Manila South Cemetery.

Enforcement and the need for segregation. The group said that slight improvements in waste management were observed inside cemetery compounds, attributing the reduction in large garbage piles to the deployment of more street sweepers, round-the-clock cleanup efforts, and the strategic positioning of more bins and catchy signage.

However, the streets outside crowded cemeteries were observed to be heavily strewn with assorted garbage, including food packaging and food waste, particularly on November 1 and the morning of November 2.

The coalition pointed out that a lasting reduction in Undas trash requires three steps: the national phase-out of SUPs, the effective enforcement of existing local plastic ban ordinances, and the strict implementation of Republic Act 9003, or The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, both inside and outside burial grounds.

‘It is not enough, for example, to scatter bags or bins for mixed waste disposal all over the cemetery,’ Tolentino said.

‘In line with RA 9003, the different waste types should be properly separated to make their reuse and recycling easier, prevent cross-contamination, and cut the amount of residual waste going to the landfills,’ he added.

PAGASA has raised Wind Signal No. 3 in more areas as tropical cyclone “Tino” gained typhoon strength on Monday morning, November 3.

In its 11 a.m. update, the state weather bureau last spotted Tino about 285 kilometers east southeast of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, packing maximum sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts up to 150 kph.

Tino is currently moving west-southwest at 25 kph.

Wind signals

PAGASA has raised tropical cyclone wind signals across several areas, with Visayas expected to bear the brunt of Typhoon Tino.

Signal No. 3 (storm-force winds in 18 hours)

Visayas

the southern portion of Eastern Samar (Guiuan, Mercedes, Lawaan, Balangiga, Giporlos, Quinapondan, Salcedo)

the southern portion of Samar (Marabut)

the central and southern portions of Leyte (Tanauan, Palo, Tabontabon, Isabel, Merida, Palompon, Ormoc City, Dagami, Pastrana, Burauen, Albuera, Macarthur, La Paz, Mayorga, Dulag, Julita, Tolosa, Abuyog, Javier, City of Baybay, Mahaplag, Inopacan, Hilongos, Hindang, Bato, Matalom)

Southern Leyte

Camotes Islands

the eastern portion of Bohol (Pres. Carlos P. Garcia, Bien Unido, Ubay, Trinidad, Talibon, San Miguel, Mabini)

Mindanao

Dinagat Islands

the northern portion of Surigao del Norte (Surigao City, San Francisco, Tagana-An, Placer, Sison) including Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands

Heavy damage is expected for high-risk structures, while increasing damage to old, dilapidated residential structures and houses made of light materials. Electrical power and communication services in these areas may be disrupted.

Signal No. 2 (gale-force winds in 24 hours)

Luzon

The southern portion of Masbate (Esperanza, Pio V. Corpuz, Placer)

Visayas

the central portion of Eastern Samar (Can-Avid, City of Borongan, Taft, Llorente, Maydolong, Balangkayan, Sulat, San Julian, General Macarthur, Hernani)

the central portion of Samar (San Sebastian, Santa Rita, Villareal, Zumarraga, Pinabacdao, Talalora, Jiabong, City of Catbalogan, Motiong, Calbiga, Daram, Paranas, Basey, Hinabangan, Santo Niño, Almagro, Tarangnan)

the rest of Leyte

Biliran

the rest of Bohol

the rest of Cebu

the northern and central portions of Negros Oriental (Tayasan, Manjuyod, City of Tanjay, Bais City, Mabinay, Bindoy, Ayungon, Jimalalud, City of Guihulngan, La Libertad, Canlaon City, Vallehermoso)

the northern and central portions of Negros Occidental (City of Escalante, Toboso, Calatrava, Salvador Benedicto, City of Himamaylan, City of Kabankalan, Ilog, Binalbagan, Isabela, Moises Padilla, San Carlos City, La Castellana, Hinigaran, Pontevedra, La Carlota City, San Enrique, Valladolid, Pulupandan, Bago City, Murcia, Bacolod City, City of Talisay, City of Victorias, Enrique B. Magalona, Silay City, Cadiz City, Manapla, Sagay City)

Guimaras

the eastern portion of Capiz (Pilar, President Roxas, Pontevedra, Panay, Dumarao, Cuartero, Ma-Ayon, Panitan, Roxas City, Ivisan, Sigma, Dao, Dumalag)

the northern and eastern portions Iloilo (Carles, Oton, San Miguel, Cabatuan, Badiangan, Calinog, Bingawan, City of Passi, Dueñas, Mina, Iloilo City, Pavia, Santa Barbara, Zarraga, Pototan, New Lucena, Leganes, Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Dingle, San Enrique, Anilao, Banate, Barotac Viejo, San Rafael, Lemery, Ajuy, Concepcion, Sara, San Dionisio, Batad, Balasan, Estancia)

Mindanao

the rest of Surigao del Norte

the northern portion of Surigao del Sur (Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, Cortes)

the northeastern portion of Agusan del Norte (Kitcharao, Jabonga, Santiago, Tubay, City of Cabadbaran)

the northern portion of Camiguin (Mambajao)

Light to moderate damage is projected for high-risk structures, with poorly built buildings and homes likely partially damaged.

Signal No. 1 (strong winds in 36 hours)

Luzon

Albay

Sorsogon

the rest of Masbate including Ticao and Burias Island

the southern portion of Quezon (San Francisco, San Andres)

the southern portion of Marinduque (Torrijos, Buenavista, Gasan, Boac)

Romblon

the central and southern portions of Oriental Mindoro (Bansud, Bongabong, Roxas, Mansalay, Bulalacao, Gloria, Pinamalayan, Socorro, Pola, Victoria)

the central and southern portions of Occidental Mindoro (San Jose, Rizal, Calintaan, Magsaysay, Sablayan)

the northern portion of Palawan (El Nido, Taytay, Dumaran, Araceli, San Vicente, Roxas) including Calamian Islands, Cuyo Islands, and Cagayancillo Islands

Visayas

Northern Samar

the rest of Eastern Samar

the rest of Samar

Siquijor

the rest of Negros Oriental

the rest of Negros Occidental

the rest of Iloilo

the rest of Capiz

Aklan

Antique including Caluya Islands

Mindanao

The rest of Surigao del Sur

the northern and central portions of Agusan del Sur (Sibagat, City of Bayugan, Prosperidad, Esperanza, San Luis, Talacogon, San Francisco, Rosario)

the rest of Agusan del Norte

the rest of Camiguin

Misamis Oriental

the northern portion of Bukidnon (Baungon, Malitbog, Impasug-Ong, Libona, Manolo Fortich, Sumilao)

the northern portion of Misamis Occidental (Baliangao, Plaridel, Sapang Dalaga, Calamba, Lopez Jaena)

the northern portion of Zamboanga del Norte (Dapitan City, Sibutad, Rizal, Dipolog City)

While some provinces have not been placed under a wind signal, PAGASA said the following are still likely to experience strong to gale-force gusts due to the combined effects of Tino and the northeast monsoon.

Cagayan Valley

Cordillera Administrative Region

Ilocos Norte, Aurora

Bulacan

Nueva Ecija

Bataan

Metro Manila

CALABARZON

MIMAROPA

Bicol Region

Sea conditions

The state weather bureau has projected a high risk of life-threatening and damaging storm surges within the next 48 hours for low-lying coastal communities in Sorsogon, Masbate, Romblon, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, Visayas, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin.

Waves are expected to reach as high as 9 meters for the eastern seaboard of Dinagay Islands and the northern and eastern seabords of Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands. Other provinces like Eastern Samar, Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Occidental may have very rough to high seas ranging from 5 to 8 meters.

Forecast track

Residents should prepare for heavy rainfall and strong winds, even outside Typhoon Tino’s projected path, with Signal No. 4 as the highest warning.

The storm is expected to hit southern Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, or Dinagat Islands by Monday night or Tuesday morning, November 4, and then cross the Visayas and northern Palawan before reaching the West Philippine Sea on Wednesday.

Tino could strengthen into a super typhoon.