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National U kept mastery of the undermannned La Salle, ending the latter’s torrid four-game run with a 75-67 win to also fortify hold of the pole position in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament yesterday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bulldogs turned the jets on in the second period, leaving the Green Archers off the dust with a 28-12 tear to set the tone in their eighth win against two losses.

Steve Nash Enriquez went perfect from downtown with his four triples for 16 points as NU stayed on course to clinching a twice-to-beat edge in the Final Four. The Bulldogs also created enough separation from the pack with two full games ahead of title holder UP (6-3) then La Salle (6-4).

The charges of coach Jeff Napa did it while also drawing significant help from Paul Francisco and Omar John with 14 and 12 points, respectively, for a repeat of their 82-78 win in the first round.

Jake Figueroa settled for only five points on 2-of-9 clip but came through with eight rebounds, six assists, six steals and a block.

‘It’s about how we perform every game really and how we put the effort. It’s about how we improve every game. Good thing against La Salle, everybody stepped up kaya nakuha namin ‘yung panalo,’ said Napa as NU continued to turn it around this season with a full-strength squad after parading an all-Filipino line-up due to the early exit of anchor Mo Diassana that led to its seventh-place finish in Season 87.

Later, Jorick Bautista scored 12 points while Kirby Mongcopa had 11 points and 17 rebounds as Far Eastern U (4-6) also snapped Adamson’s four-game streak with a 73-70 decision.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) hailed President Marcos for putting his stamp of approval on the creation of the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC) through Administrative Order 38.

The President has mandated the NST-IAC to ‘harmonize, coordinate, and oversee all government initiatives to develop, promote, and sustain sports tourism in the country.’

Under Administrative Order No. 38, which was signed by the President on Oct. 29, PSC chief Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio will serve as chairman of the NST-IAC with his counterparts from the Department of Tourism (DOT) as vice-chairperson; and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) as members.

Gregorio cited the NST-IAC as ‘an invaluable recognition of how sports can enable the youth, enable regional development, enable tourism and enable new industries.’

The PSC chief emphasized, ‘We understand our role. We are enablers. Whether it’s working with DepEd for grassroots development or with the DOT for sports tourism, sports will be a key catalyst and driver of the national agenda.’

Gregorio said the President, an avid sportsman and the biggest supporter of the Filipino athlete, has recognized the hosting of major international sports events as a perfect avenue to promote the country before a global audience.

Former Rep. Zaldy Co (Ako Bicol Partylist) refused to receive the Ombudsman’s order to file a counter-affidavit, the office said.

In a press briefing on Monday, November 3, the Ombudsman said the order may have been delivered to Co’s last known residence, but those who received it on his behalf still refused to accept it.

“An order to file (a) counter-affidavit was given to Elizaly S. Co, but the recipient refused to accept,” Clavano said in a press briefing with reporters.

According to Clavano, the order requiring Co to answer the complaints against him is deemed filed and if he did not respond within the period prescribed by law, he is considered to have been in “default.”

“If the periods had already lapsed, then we will consider the person, in this case, former Congressman Zaldy S. Co, as in default,” he said.

If a respondent is declared in default, Clavano explained that the prosecutor will then use all submitted documents, including the complainant’s affidavit, as the sole basis for the resolution.

The Ombudsman is conducting multiple investigations into Co, the founder of Sunwest Realty and Development Corporation, concerning his role in the alleged anomalous flood control project.

The counter-affidavit that Co must respond to is from the case the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) filed before the Office of the Ombudsman on September 29.

The ICI asked the Ombudsman to file criminal and administrative charges against Co and 17 others over the alleged anomalous flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro.

The criminal charges asked by the ICI to be filed include violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents by a public officer under the Revised Penal Code and violations of the Government Procurement Reform Act.

The Alas Pilipinas girls team impressed by putting up a gallant stand against defending champion Japan in a 17-25, 25-21, 16-25, 20-25 loss in the Second Asian Volleyball Confederation Asian Women’s U16 Volleyball Championship on Saturday at Princess Sumaya Hall in Amman, Jordan.

Xyz Rayco and Nadeth Herbon introduced themselves on the Asian stage by leading Alas girls’ impressive debut in the U16 championship in front of the overseas Filipino workers.

Rayco and Herbon led the Philippines’ strong showing in the second set with nine points each to tie the game to one set apiece, but they were dominated by the Japanese in the third frame.

Alas held a 12-9 lead in the fourth after Madele Gale’s ace, only for Ren Sugimoto, Miko Takahashi and Rina Hayasaka to rescue Japan, with Hayasaka drilling two consecutive kills to win their first assignment in Pool B.

Several airlines have canceled flights on Monday, November 3, as Typhoon Tino (international name: Kalmaegi) is expected to make landfall in parts of Visayas.

As of 12 p.m., Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebgo, and Sunlight Air have declared flight cancellations for passenger safety as the typhoon continues to intensify throughout the day.

State weather bureau PAGASA said in its latest bulletin Tino could make landfall in Eastern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, or Dinagat Islands on Monday evening or early Tuesday morning. The storm could reach peak intensity of 150 to 165 km/h, with PAGASA not ruling out the possibility of it strengthening into a super typhoon.

These are the flights that have been canceled as of November 3, 2025, based on the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines’ list as of Monday noon.

Sunlight Air:

2R 898 Clark-Siargao

2R 990 Siargao-Clark

2R 857 Cebu-Siargao

2R 858 Siargao-Cebu

Cebgo:

DG6763 Clark-Siargo

DG6764 Siargao-Clark

DG6855 Cebu-Siargao

DG6856 Siargao-Cebu

DG6859 Cebu-Siargao

DG6860 Siargao-Cebu

DG6853 Cebu-Siargao

DG6854 Siargao-Cebu

DG6861 Cebu-Siargao

DG6862 Siargao-Cebu

Philippine Airlines:

PR 2875 Clark-Siargao

PR 2375 Siargao-Cebu

PR 2382 Cebu-Siargao

PR 2383 Siargao-Cebu

PR 2973 Manila-Siargao

PR 2974 Siargao-Manila

PR 2985 Manila-Tacloban

PR 2986 Tacloban-Manila

PR 2987 Manila-Tacloban

PR 2988 Tacloban-Manila

PR 2238 Mactan-Mactan

PR 2239 Tacloban-Manila

PR 2651 Mactan-Borongan

PR 2652 Borongan-Mactan

PR 2336 Butuan-Cebu

PR 2939 Butuan-Manila

The Philippines and Canada signed yesterday a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement to boost combat drills and expand security alliances to deter aggression.

The SOVFA with the Philippines, the first of its kind that Canada entered into with a country in the Indo-Pacific, was signed by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty in Makati following a bilateral meeting.

In his remarks, Teodoro said the SOVFA is a product of true convergence.

‘It is a milestone for Canada, and it is an honor for the Philippines to be the first partner of Canada in this endeavor. And together, we will be stronger for the greater good of the Indo-Pacific,’ Teodoro said in a joint press conference with McGuinty.

The key defense agreement to facilitate combat drills between the two countries and expand security alliances to deter aggression requires Senate concurrence.

The minister cited the Philippines’ leadership in upholding international law, emphasizing that ‘peace is built on rules, not recklessness and that stability grows from cooperation, not confrontation.’

‘The Philippines has shown true leadership in upholding international law and seeking the peaceful resolution of disputes. And for that, you have Canada’s greatest and deepest respect,’ McGuinty said.

‘It’s important to remember that Canada has been and remains resolute in support of Philippine, Filipino sovereignty and territorial integrity. This is something we recognize,’ he said.

Since launching its Pacific Strategy in 2022, Canada strengthened its presence across the region on land, at sea and in the air. It also allowed its forces to take part in more multinational exercises, including with the Philippines.

The Philippines and Canada signed the Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation last year, which laid the foundation for deeper collaboration between the two countries’ militaries.

The signing of SOVFA with Canada came after the combined armed forces of Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines and the United States, demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific, conducted a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, on Oct. 30 to 31.

Drivers may want to gas up early, as another major fuel price hike is set to take effect on Tuesday, November 4.

Fuel prices have been on an almost weekly rise, and the coming increase of up to P2.70 per liter marks the biggest since June.

On Tuesday, oil firms will raise gasoline prices by P1.70 per liter, diesel by P2.70 and kerosene by P2.10.

Shell Pilipinas, Caltex, Seaoil, CleanFuel and PetroGazz announced the upward price adjustments on Monday, November 3.

Industry experts said the latest fuel price hike is driven by new sanctions imposed by the United States on two Russian oil firms. Britain likewise sanctioned Russia’s two largest refineries in October, adding to the restrictions it already imposed on other major producers from Moscow in 2025.

As the United Kingdom rolled out new sanctions, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stressed their importance in curbing Russia’s aggression and maintaining stability in Europe and the UK through ensuring Ukraine’s security.

The global oil market remains under pressure from geopolitical tensions, as sanctions restrict output from some of the world’s largest producers and unrest in the Middle East compounds supply concerns.

Despite expected increases in oil production through year-end and 2026, prices show no signs of slowing. And with this week’s fuel price hike, year-to-date increases are set to breach the P20-per-liter mark for the first time, meaning fuel now costs roughly P20 more than it did in 2024.

According to the Department of Energy’s monitoring, prevailing fuel prices at pump stations from October 28 to November 3 are:

Gasoline (RON97/100) – P64.64

Gasoline (RON95) – P55.30

Gasoline (RON91) – P57.20

Diesel – P54.05

Diesel Plus – P57.30

Kerosene – P79.11

The net increase now stands at P18.20 per liter for gasoline, P21.85 per liter for diesel, and P8.65 per liter for kerosene.

Total net change of fuel prices in 2025

Honor Philippines announced the launch of its all-new Honor X7d, the latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up for as low as P7,299!

Get it during pre-order period until October 24 and get a free Honor Camping Light Speaker worth P4,999. Head on to your nearest Honor Experience and Partner Stores.

‘The Honor X7d represents Honor’s dedication to providing practical, feature-rich smartphones catering to the needs of budget-conscious consumers who still desire AI interaction in their mobile devices,” said Honor Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

“Setting a benchmark as a powerful budget phone with enhanced durability and brand-new AI experience in the market, the HONOR X7d brings 5-star Premium Drop Protection, IP65 Water Resistance, a robust 6500mAh Dual-cell Battery, 108MP Ultra-Clear Main Camera and stunning Instant AI Button,’ Cheng added.

Exceptional durability with all-around protections

Positioned as a durable entry-level phone, the latest Honor X7d showcases comprehensive drop protection with prestigious SGS Premium Performance Certification of Drop and Crush Resistance, offering impressive resistance to drops from heights of up to 1.8 meters.

The corners reinforced by Rhinoceros-like structure Bulletproof Vests Design, Cushioning and Fall Protection Architecture and Decentralized Force Design safeguards the phones from different daily impacts.

Equipped with an IP65 Water Resistance, it’s robust design is further enhanced, making it not afraid of washing, rinsing and water spray. This device has been tested to function after being submerged in water for up to 1 minute at a depth of 0.5 meter, making it a dependable companion in various settings and situations.

Meanwhile, with the Wet-hand Touch Enhancement, users can also have smooth experience even with wet or greasy fingers.

Exceptional battery with enhanced safety and strength

Equipped with a large 6500mAh Battery, the Honor X7d provides price-level biggest battery life, offering all-day lasting and 5 years Super Durable. The Double-cell Battery Structure design offers longer lasting, faster charging as well as a stronger and safer structure.

With multi-point temperature monitoring, the battery performs well in temperatures from -20°C to 55°C, which allows it to work perfectly in the harshest conditions from blizzards to deserts.

Additionally, the 35W wired Honor SuperCharge8 rapidly revives the battery for extended usage.

Practical AI button for all-new experience

As the first smartphone in its class to feature AI Button, the Honor X7d offers brand-new AI interaction through this subtle design.

Simply put, the AI button has two ways to interact which correspond to different functions. With a single click, users can open APP which they customize or perform background cleaning and speeding up, while with a long press, users can activate functions like AI Translation and AI Creation, delivering a truly personalized and seamless user experience.

Additionally, powered by the latest MagicOS 9.0 based on Android 15, the Honor X7d carries various other intelligence features including Magic Capsule, Magic Portal, Circle to search and Google Gemini Assistant, offering AI Editing functions including AI Outpainting, Al Upscale, AI Cutout and so on, making it the best partner for work and life.

AI-powered smartphone photography experience

Equipped with a 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera, the Honor X7d captures images with exceptional details and enhanced brightness, empowering users to have the best photography experience even at night.

With 3x Lossless Zoom and three distinct portrait modes-1x Environmental Portrait, 2x Atmospheric Portrait, and 3x Close-up Portrait-users can create stunning portrait shots with diverse focal lengths.

Furthermore, the Honor X7d integrates AI photography features like AI Eraser, AI Remove Reflection and AI Style, improving image quality and promoting users’ photo editing experience on smartphones.

Generous storage saving all precious memories

The Honor X7d comes equipped with 512GB large internal storage at most providing ample space for years of precious memories.

This power efficiency is complemented by the brand’s innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual). It ensures smooth performance even after extended use, allowing users to multitask and switch between apps effortlessly.

Pricing and availability

Catering to users’ diverse style preferences, the Honor X7d is available in three captivating colorways: Desert Gold, Ocean Cyan and Velvet Black.

Until October 24, you can pre-order the Honor X7d (512GB Variant) for only P9,999 to get a free Camping Light Speaker worth P4,999 at any Honor Experience and Partner Stores.

Rey Nambatac’s starring role in the comeback win over Meralco kept TNT atop the standings of the PBA Philippine Cup.

Knocking down big shot after big shot in getting a 100-98 overtime victory enabled Nambatac to give the Tropang 5G their fourth win in five starts in the conference they hope to win after last season’s Finals defeat.

‘It’s all about confidence,’ said Nambatac, who was adjudged the PBA Press Corps Player of the Week for the period of October 29 to November 2.

Nambatac was the hands down choice by the members of the group covering the PBA beat over San Miguel Beer’s June Mar Fajardo and Juami Tiongson, Barangay Ginebra’s Japeth Aguilar and Stephen Holt and Rain or Shine’s Santi Santillan.

The southpaw guard had 22 points, 20 of which coming in the second half and extra period, as TNT roared back from a 23-point deficit to stun Meralco.

His four-pointer gave TNT a 90-87 lead late in regulation, though it was negated by a Chris Newsome triple that sent the game to overtime after Nambatac missed another four-point attempt that could have iced it.

But Nambatac would make up for that miss in the final seconds of the extension when he came through with the winning jumper off Chris Banchero to seal the deal for the Tropang 5G.

‘Sobrang nanghihinayang talaga ako kasi kung pumasok yung pangalawang four, tapos na,’ said Nambatac. ‘Pero naging motivation ko din nung overtime na hindi man four points mashoot ko yung last shot.’

Loyalty has truly paid off for 59-year-old sales agent Marissa Alvior, who is now the proud owner of a brand-new all-electric BYD Seagull – the grand prize in Smart’s Amazing Back-to-School Raffle Promo.

A devoted Smart subscriber for the past 32 years, Marissa considers the brand a huge part of her daily life – from making her first mobile calls to staying connected through her favorite apps in today’s digital world.

Marissa described her win as an early Christmas miracle during the awarding ceremony held last Oct. 26 at the BYD showroom in Bacoor, Cavite.

‘Maraming, maraming, maraming salamat sa Smart sa maagang pamasko! Napakalaking tulong talaga nito kasi hindi na kami magko-commute. Maraming salamat sa Diyos kasi binigyan Niya kami ng ganitong biyaya,’ she shared.

Having witnessed Smart’s growth and innovations for more than three decades, Marissa never imagined that her loyalty would one day be rewarded in such a big way. She even recalled how she initially hesitated to answer the call announcing her as the grand prize winner.

‘Noong una, duda ako sagutin ‘yung tawag. Finally, sinagot ko siya tapos sabi niya nanalo ako ng kotse. Sabi ko, ‘Totoo?’ kasi hindi ako makapaniwala. Ngayon, sobrang happy po kasi never namin na-imagine na magkakaroon kami ng sasakyan,’ she said.

‘We’re deeply grateful to subscribers like Marissa who have stayed loyal to Smart through the years. Her big win is a testament to how loyalty and connection with Smart can open doors to meaningful and rewarding experiences,’ said Marjorie Garrovillo, first vice president at Smart.

Smart’s Amazing Back-to-School Raffle promo ran last June 17 to August 16 and gave subscribers the chance to win exciting prizes, including the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S24, ZTE Blade A75 5G, thousands of Mobile Legends Diamonds, Viu vouchers, a one-year supply of Smart data, an iPad, and the all-electric BYD Seagull as the grand prize.

Just like Marissa, Smart subscribers nationwide have a chance to win life-changing prizes this Christmas season through the ongoing Smart Holideals raffle promo.

Open to all Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid subscribers from October 17 to December 31, 2025, the Smart Holideals promo gives lucky customers a chance to win up to P5 million in the grand raffle draw.

To join, subscribers simply need to text RAFFLE to 5858. Once successfully registered, they can start earning and accumulating raffle entries based on their Smart load purchases.