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The Philippine peso stabilized last Thursday after rebounding from a record low. It closed at P58.85 per dollar following a volatile week that saw the currency breach the closely watched P59 level.

The peso had weakened to an intraday record of P59.26 per dollar on Wednesday before recovering to P58.69 later in the day, according to data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines. Trading was calmer on Thursday, with the peso holding within a narrower range as sentiment improved after the US Fed cut its policy rates.

Testing historic levels

The peso’s drop beyond P59 marked its weakest level on record, but it has repeatedly bounced from this threshold since 2022. The level has long been viewed as a line in the sand for traders, with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) often stepping in to curb sharp swings.

Fed cuts rates

The peso’s rally followed the Federal Reserve’s quarter-point rate cut on Oct. 29, which lowered its benchmark rate to a range of 3.75 percent to 4.00 percent. The move which followed a similar cut by the BSP early October, has widened the interest rate gap, giving the peso breathing room.

With the BSP’s policy rate at 4.75 percent, the Philippines maintains a significantly higher yield compared to US rates. This should make peso-denominated assets more attractive to yield-seeking investors and provide support for the peso after its recent slide.

BSP’s steady hand

The central bank has reiterated its commitment to maintaining orderly market conditions. While officials have not confirmed direct intervention, traders speculate BSP presence in the spot market whenever volatility spikes. Governor Eli Remolona Jr. has said the peso’s value should reflect fundamentals but stressed that ‘excessive movements’ will be managed.

Seasonal support

Seasonal inflows may bolster the peso through the year-end. December is historically the peak month for overseas remittances, which typically rise by 20 percent to 25 percent above monthly averages. Inflows are projected to reach around $3.8 billion this year. This may provide ample foreign-exchange liquidity and additional support for the peso after months of pressure.

Peso’s performance year-to-date

The peso remains one of Asia’s weaker performers this year, down by 1.7 percent against the dollar, compared with gains of 6.8 percent for the Taiwan dollar, 6.6 percent for the Malaysian ringgit and five percent for the Thai baht.

Major currencies have rallied strongly led by the Norwegian krone (+13 percent), Swiss franc (+12.3 percent) and euro (+11.1 percent). The broad decline in the US dollar index – down by 7.9 percent this year – has lifted most developed-market currencies but provided limited relief for Asia’s more vulnerable currencies.

Short term relief, lingering risks

While the peso’s rebound offers some relief, challenges remain. Fragile investor sentiment, massive corruption issues and wide fiscal and current-account deficits continue to weigh on confidence.

But if Fed easing continues and remittance inflows reach their seasonal high in December, the currency could firm toward the P58 level. With gross international reserves at $109.1 billion, the BSP has ample capacity to maintain orderly market conditions as inflows build toward year-end.

The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) filed another set of complaints against 97 individuals allegedly involved in the Mendiola-Recto riots that occurred on September 21.

CIDG Director Major General Robert Alexander Morico said that among the 97 individuals are the alleged instigators and those who allegedly funded the riots.

‘The investigation is continuing and in the next few days we will be filing again cases against the instigators and supposed people who are behind the violent incident in Recto and in Mendiola,’ Morico said.

The complaints were filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ) last week, according to Morico.

Morico said the following criminal complaints under the Revised Penal Code (RPC) have been forwarded to the DOJ:

Violation of Article 142 of the RPC or inciting to sedition

Violation of Article 136 of the RPC or the conspiracy and proposal to commit sedition

Violation of Article 139 of the RPC or sedition

On Thursday, Morico said the CIDG filed complaints against 40 individuals involved in the riot.

According to media reports, this is separate from the 97 complaints filed with the DOJ last week.

The riots occurred amid anti-corruption protests at EDSA Shrine and Luneta Park on September 21.

The unrest left two people dead and 216 arrested, some of whom were minors.

The National Police Commission has launched a motu proprio investigation into the involvement of a Bacolod City police officer in the disappearance and killing of a businesswoman in Negros Occidental, the Napolcom said yesterday.

Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Calinisan ordered the agency’s inspection, monitoring and investigation service to look into the case of the officer tagged in the death of Kristine Joy Dignadice, a 42-year-old resident of Victorias City.

The search for Dignadice ended on Saturday after the unnamed officer surrendered to Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, the Negros Island Region police chief, and admitted his involvement in the crime.

Dignadice’s decomposing body was recovered at Hacienda Weber in Barangay Don Jorge Araneta in Bago City, following the information provided by the suspect. Her bloodstained car was found abandoned in Hinigaran town, more than 30 kilometers away, on Oct. 29.

‘The Napolcom will ensure that due process is observed and that the erring police officer will be held fully accountable. The administrative case will proceed separately from any criminal proceedings filed before the court,’ Calinisan said, noting that the commission immediately took cognizance of the case as it involves an active member of the Philippine National Police.

The PNP has yet to determine the policeman’s motive, as the investigation continues.

Ibay ordered a parallel administrative investigation against the suspect he described as a staff sergeant and member of the Bacolod City Police.

‘We owe it to the public we serve to demonstrate that no one is above the law. We will make sure that this case is pursued with fairness, professionalism and compassion for the victim’s family,’ Ibay said, adding that the PNP will ‘not allow one man’s crime to stain the honor of those who wear the uniform with integrity and compassion.’

Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez, a former mayor of Victorias City, requested the PNP, Department of Justice, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Office of the Ombudsman and Commission on Human Rights to look into the murder.

Calinisan assured the public that the Napolcom remains firm in enforcing disciplinary action against police personnel who violate the law and the PNP code of conduct.

Tropical Storm Tino has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility yesterday (November 2) prompting a full-scale mobilization across Cebu City and the province.

With thousands still displaced from the September 30 earthquake and the storm expected to bring strong winds and heavy rains, local governments are rushing to secure vulnerable communities and reinforce critical infrastructure.

The state weather bureau PAGASA has warned residents in Cebu to brace for strong winds and heavy rains as tropical cyclone Tino continues to move closer to the Visayas region.

According to Mark Gales, weather specialist of PAGASA Visayas, the weather disturbance is expected to affect parts of Central Visayas, particularly Cebu, starting Monday afternoon night until Wednesday with the most critical period projected by Tuesday morning.

‘Cebu will begin to experience the effects of the storm from Monday evening, and the most critical period will likely be by Tuesday,’ Gales told the media, adding that, by Tuesday, the storm’s circulation would have entered the Visayas area, bringing intermittent to continuous rains and strong winds. ‘By Tuesday, the storm will already be within the Visayas area,’ he confirmed.

When asked about the situation in Cebu, Gales said residents should expect gusty winds and moderate to heavy rainfall, especially in coastal and elevated areas. ‘Winds will start to intensify, particularly along the coasts and mountain areas,’ he said.

Gales advised local government units (LGUs) to closely monitor PAGASA bulletins and implement early preparedness measures, especially in flood-prone and landslide-prone communities.

‘We are advising LGUs to take precautionary measures as early as possible. Prepare evacuation centers, alert disaster response teams, and continuously monitor weather updates,’ he added.

He also reminded the public to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel, especially during the height of the storm’s impact. ‘Safety should be the top priority. Let’s avoid traveling during heavy rains and strong winds,’ he stressed. He added that power outage is possible on those days brought about by strong winds.

Tino’s movement

Based on Pagasa weather bulletin issued at 5pm last night but valid for broadcast until the next advisory at 11:00 pm last night, severe tropical storm ‘Tino’ will move generally westward over the next three days and make its initial landfall over Eastern Samar or Dinagat Islands on November 3, 2025 late evening or on Tuesday, November 4. 2025 early morning.

Afterwards, Tino will traverse Visayas and northern Palawan before emerging over the West Philippine Sea on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 morning or afternoon.

‘Tino’ is forecast to continuously intensify and may reach typhoon category within the next 24 hours. It will likely make its initial landfall at or near peak intensity (currently forecasted around 150-165 km/h maximum winds with higher gustiness).

Rapid intensification within the next 48 hours is likely. ‘The possibility of reaching super typhoon category is not ruled out based on alternate scenarios and climatological data,’PAGASA said.

While the passage over country will trigger a slight weakening, Tino is expected to remain as a typhoon throughout its passage over the country. As of last night, Camotes Island in Cebu is already under storm signal number one including Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte in the Visayas. Dinagat Islands and Surigao del Norte in Mindanao are under the same storm signal.

The weather bureau further advised that mariners of small seacrafts, including all types of motorbancas, are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions, especially if inexperienced of operating ill-equipped vessels.

Cebu City on red alert

Mayor Nestor Archival convened an emergency coordination meeting with department heads and disaster response agencies to finalize operational readiness.

‘Karun nagtapok ta uban sa atong disaster response teams,’ the mayor said yesterday afternoon. ‘Together with the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO), the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CCDRRMC) nga gipangulohan ni Konsehal Dave Tumulak, ug mga department heads, we are currently holding an emergency coordination meeting in preparation for Tropical Storm Tino.’

Following the meeting, the City Council has unanimously agreed to declare Cebu City under Red Alert status due to the imminent threat of typhoon Tino. With this Red Alert, all classes in public and private schools are suspended until further notice.

Archival emphasized the urgency of preemptive action, citing the need to pre-position rescue personnel, activate additional communication systems, and ensure that all agencies are fully equipped and coordinated.

‘Ang tumong nato mao ang pagpanalipod sa katawhan sa Sugbo ug pagsiguro nga andam ang tanang ahensya sa panahon sa kalamidad,’ he added.

For private companies and establishments, the city government urges management to adopt the Red Alert protocols, allowing flexible arrangements so employees can prepare their homes and families for the possible effects of Tino.

The city government also reminded the public to keep important documents inside sealed zip bags; charge mobile phones and prepare flashlights, batteries and first-aid kits; secure vehicles and motorcycles in safe, elevated areas; and advised families near coastlines and riverbanks to move to designated evacuation centers immediately.

As part of the city’s proactive measures, the Parks and Playground Office has intensified tree-trimming operations in key areas to remove overhanging branches and clear potential obstructions that could pose hazards to residents, motorists, and properties.

The office said the effort is part of the city’s regular maintenance and disaster preparedness program, aimed at reducing the risk of accidents and damage during severe weather.

The City Government continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities as these operations are carried out.

The CCDRRMO confirmed that ambulances are now on standby, solar-powered communication systems have been activated in upland barangays such as Malubog and Malani, and barangay captains have been directed to monitor high-risk zones and ensure generator readiness.

The Department of Public Services will lead garbage clearing and identify staging areas for debris and relief operations.

The Visayan Electric and the City Engineering Office will oversee post-storm road clearing, while the Cebu Contractors Association has committed heavy equipment to support rescue and recovery.

In Northern Cebu

The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 7 has intensified coordination with local governments in Bogo City, Medellin, San Remigio, and Daanbantayan.

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in tent cities are being relocated to safer facilities, with tents dismantled ahead of the storm to prevent damage and injury.

Mobile kitchens from Field Offices 7, 10, and 4-A continue to serve hot meals to hundreds of families, while food packs and essential supplies have been secured in Mobile Storage Units.

In Medellin, Mayor Edwin Salimbangon convened a special Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council meeting to assess local vulnerabilities and coordinate with the Philippine Red Cross and DepEd for the possible use of classrooms as evacuation centers.

In Daanbantayan and San Remigio, IDPs have been advised to return to their homes, if structurally safe, or relocate to modular shelters and designated evacuation sites.

In Bogo City, camp leaders at the Banban Evacuation Center agreed to temporarily dismantle tents and transfer families to isolation facilities until weather conditions stabilize.

Recognizing the heightened vulnerability of earthquake-affected areas, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro activated a special disaster plan for 11 towns and one city still recovering from the 6.9-magnitude quake. These include Sogod, Tabogon, Borbon, Bogo City, San Remigio, Tabuelan, Medellin, Daanbantayan, Sta. Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos-communities where thousands remain in temporary shelters.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council outlined immediate priorities: preemptive evacuation of displaced families, deployment of search and rescue teams, rapid damage assessments, and the sustained delivery of food, water, health services, and security.

The Emergency Operations Center is set to go on full activation today (November 3), with 24/7 coordination maintained with PAGASA, OCD, and local DRRM offices.

Provincial agencies have been instructed to mobilize assets for road clearing, supply transport, and law enforcement support.

As part of precautionary measures, the Cebu Province has suspended in-person classes in multiple LGUs across all districts.

Several municipalities, including Minglanilla, Carcar, Barili, Compostela, and Liloan, and Mandaue City have declared class suspensions until November 5, while others have shifted to Alternative Delivery Modes. In quake-affected zones, class suspensions remain in effect until further notice.

Both city and provincial government and the rest of the LGUs, in quake-hit areas, continue to urge residents to remain alert, prepare their households, and rely only on verified information from government sources.

As Tino moves westward across the Visayas, the focus remains clear—protect lives, preserve dignity, and ensure no community is left behind.

DSWD-7 preparations

As ‘Tino’ approaches, the Department of Social Welfare and Development-7, together with concerned local government units (LGUs), has intensified its coordination and preparedness measures to ensure the safety and welfare of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Northern Cebu.

In Bogo City, DSWD-7 camp personnel stationed at the Barangay Banban Evacuation Center and SM Cares Village convened a coordination meeting with tent leaders to discuss safety protocols and necessary preparations for the approaching storm. They agreed to temporarily dismantle the tents immediately to prevent them from being damaged or blown away by strong winds.

Similarly, DSWD-7 camp personnel deployed in the San Remigio Tent City participated in a coordination meeting led by the Local Government Unit (LGU) through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO).

During the meeting, it was agreed that IDPs may temporarily seek shelter with relatives for safety, while those whose houses remain safe and structurally sound are encouraged to stay in their homes.

Others may stay in the modular shelter units established by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), which are built to withstand stronger weather conditions.

In Medellin, DSWD-7 camp personnel remain in close coordination with the LGU to strengthen local preparedness measures.

Among the key agreements are the continuous weather monitoring by Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (BDRRMOs), the prepositioning of medical, response, and rescue teams, and coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the possible use of classrooms as temporary shelters for IDPs, should the need arise.

Meanwhile, in Daanbantayan, DSWD camp personnel and the LGU jointly conducted camp-to-camp visits to ensure that IDPs are informed of precautionary measures for the incoming typhoon. Each camp has already temporarily dismantled its tents to minimize risks from strong winds. Local schools and Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) have also been inspected and designated as alternative evacuation sites should conditions worsen.

DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero in a statement assured that the Field Office remains proactive and ready to respond to any impact the storm may cause.

‘With the ongoing disaster response operations in Northern Cebu, we affirm that DSWD is on top of ensuring the safety and welfare of internally displaced families through our active coordination with other government agencies and local government units. We have prepositioned food and non-food items across the Central Visayas region, especially in areas where displaced families remain most vulnerable to the effects of the tropical storm,’ Lucero said.

As of November 2, 2025, DSWD-7 has prepositioned 71,535 Family Food Packs (FFPs) and 9,977 Non-Food Items (NFIs) across Cebu and Bohol Provinces to support emergency response operations.

For quake-hit areas, the following supplies have been prepositioned:

Bogo City – 1,366 Family Food Packs; San Remigio – 1,566 Family Food Packs; Medellin – 7,302 Family Food Packs; Daanbantayan – 2,300 Family Food Packs

DSWD-7 continues to coordinate closely with local authorities, ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to safeguard families potentially affected by Tino.

Local stocks are again likely to trade sideways this week, with the prevailing bearish sentiment expected to continue.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) capped off a shortened trading week last Thursday in the red at 5,929.68, lower by 0.97 percent week-on-week.

The broader All Shares index was likewise down by 0.41 percent week-on-week at 3,593.28.

‘The PSEi will continue to be sideways in a narrow band, 5,900 to 6,000, due to the peso volatility and (US) Fed’s hawkish cut that is dollar supportive,’ First Metro Investment Corp. head of research Cristina Ulang said.

Philstocks Financial research manager Japhet Tantiangco said bearish sentiment continues to dominate the local market as downside risks continue to press on while positive catalysts are yet to be seen.

He said investor confidence also remains weak as seen on the anemic value turnover.

On the upside, Tantiangco said episodes of bargain hunting could be seen this week following two straight weeks of decline.

‘For the market’s general direction, however, we expect investors to take cues from our upcoming macroeconomic data. Investors are expected to look toward our third quarter GDP data to know how the local economy has been,’ Tantiangco said.

‘A growth slower than the government’s 5.5 to 6.5 percent target for the year may weigh on the market. Investors may also look at the upcoming S and P Global Philippines Manufacturing PMI and the country’s labor market data as these would also give clues on the strength of the local economy,’ he said.

He is arguably one of the best one-on-one players in the country. Most people in large cities have never heard of him. But if you ask the players in the street, those who work up a sweat on concrete or asphalt basketball courts in slippers or bare feet the noonday sun know him. Even in farflung, remote barangays, they’ve seen him play in person. Though he barely scratches 5’5,’ he is feared, as much for his outrageous skill as his ability to embarrass opponents. A throwback to in your face street basketball from the 1990s, he is known as The Reaper.

Erricson Gabay grew up in an isolated area in Batangas, where there was not much mainstream basketball. There were also very few talents to hero worship. Local players were hard to come by.

‘I was not really a basketball player at first, ‘Gabay told The STAR and Basketball Universe PHL. ‘I was really into track and field, high jump and long jump. My uncles in Batangas were known for basketball. I watched them a lot, and liked it. But my height did not follow.’

He had the speed, but not much else. After grade school, his family moved to Metro Manila, where he started hanging out with urban streetball legends like Niño ‘Lil Flash’ Ventura. In his amazement, Erricson wanted to emulate the incredible handles, imaginative moves and insane tricks. Even in confined spaces and under tight guarding, guys like him found a way to get to the hoop. The meek little Erricson gradually transformed into his feared alter ego.

‘There are two reasons why I wanted to become an entertainer,’ The Reaper explains. ‘First of all, I really like making people happy. A lot of what we see on social media now is guys hurting each other. I don’t care if I lose, as long as people have a good time, and I leave happy memories. Also, I knew I could make it a career, but in a different way.’

Streetball and 3-on-3 first emerged on the back street of New York. It became a staple of Philippine basketball when it gained prominence in the 1990s. It has faded somewhat, but thanks to those who remember the past, it is now experiencing a resurgence. And at the forefront are The Reaper and his mates with Filipino Mixtape, the HoopVan Project, Hoop Bus, and others. They go where nobody else does, into the smaller communities that are often neglected. They inspire the sweaty masses in Thor shirts and slippers, that with a little imagination and a lot of effort, you can escape and make something of yourself.

Maybe that is the advantage of not being talk. You see things through a regular Filipino’s eye level. You meet people where they are, and they can relate to you. You may appear tiny to others, but those who know you understand that you can be a killer on the basketball court. That is what makes The Reaper so effective. He is Juan de la Cruz. He is also a kind of superhero who can conquer any court.

The story of The Reaper will be on Basketball Universe PHL tonight on YouTube and Facebook.

Dornier Technology, which recently secured its US FAA certification as a foreign repair station for heavy maintenance on the Airbus A320 aircraft family, is in talks with local and foreign banks, as well as possible equity investors, to finance its expansion plans for its existing facilities at the Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga.

In an exclusive interview, Dornier Technology CEO Nikos Gitsis revealed that he is already in talks with some local and international banks to secure as much as $42 million to finance the company’s plan to expand and build a new hangar in Clark to accommodate more MRO (maintenance, repair, overhaul) work on Airbus aircraft following the US FAA certification.

Securing the US FAA certification, he said, was ‘the catalyst for growing the business, or a reason to grow the business. ‘

Based on Gitsis’s timetable, he is negotiating to secure at least $16 million for the first tranche in the next six months to one year to build a second hangar, and an additional $26 million or more for the second tranche to fully develop and maximize the MRO facilities down the line.

According to Gitsis, Dornier Technology only has one hangar that is around 6,000 square meters that can accommodate one to two aircraft inside the hangar, and another one to two outside the hangar.

However, it has leased additional land from CRK, which is operated by the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corp., a special purpose company established to manage the operations and maintenance of CRK.

The members of LIPAD Corp are Filinvest Development Corp., JG Summit Holdings Inc., Philippine Airport Ground Support Solutions Inc. and Changi Airports Philippines (I) Pte. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Changi Airports International. The consortium members each have vast experience in airport operations, air transportation and property development.

Gitsis pointed out that ‘because you have very many specialized areas in an MRO, you have specialized teams, and these are very highly skilled, maintenance, engineers, planners and warehouse people, and they have very specialized skills, and you have to have all these components to work together.’

To make the MRO a profitable and a productive type of company, Gitsis elaborated, ‘It needs to have a certain scale to it, but to grow the scale, you need to have enough work.’

He added, ‘The business requires a certain economy of scale, and that would be like seven to eight lines or the capacity to manage six state planes at the same time.’

He continued, ‘If there’s only one or two planes, you cannot optimize the manpower. If you have more planes at the same time, they can be more productive most of the time, instead of only a short period, or only limited times when you have less projects.’

He acknowledged that as an independent MRO, ‘We need to source projects and jobs from many different customers, and to do that we need more space. To justify that and to be able to go out to find work.’

Additionally, he said, ‘We are going to employ more people, we expect to grow our manpower complement. We’re at about 250 now. We expect it to grow by at least 50 percent, if not more, over the next year because of this FAA certification, and then if we are able to realize the expansion, that could triple and quadruple our manpower as well.’

Dornier Technology has been a pioneer locator in the Clark ecozone initially under SEAIR. According to Gitsis, ‘Dornier Technology, you know, we’ve been here for 30 to 31 years now in the Philippines. It was born out of our (South East Asian Airlines) SEAIR project that we began.’

He continued, ‘We’ve been leasing in Clark since 1995. We were the first locator in Clark. The space we have is a 6,000 – square meter hangar, and we have some land around. So, we could triple that with the land that’s been allocated for us. So, we have enough room to grow further. The money you would need would be more just to construct the hangar, not to lease out more land. We have the land.’

He recalled further that, ‘We did a lot of pioneering work, and again, our MRO is a developmental and pioneering maintenance facility here in the Philippines, and we’re trying to grow it organically here. It’s a homegrown company.’

Gitsis stressed though that ‘One thing that’s important to highlight is that the Philippines is still playing catch up in the maintenance segment of aviation against other countries like Vietnam and Malaysia and Singapore, and Indonesia even, who have much greater investments and they get a much broader type of support, I think, from their governments that drive these investments.’

He also highlighted that ‘It’s important that the local understanding of what an MRO can do, and what MRO industry does for a country, is clear, it brings in high paying jobs, highly technical skilled employees, and it creates and adds to the ecosystem of aviation, which is important for a country like the Philippines which is a large archipelago.’

Gitsis was of the opinion that ‘We don’t want to be sending our planes from the Philippines outside to third party countries and building up their sectors alone… and while the Philippines is lagging behind.’

As such, he said, the ‘Philippines should actively support this type of industry, which is a service industry too, which is a B to B service to other airlines and to other MROs, because MROs also help other MROs. We’re also cooperating with all the MROs here in the Philippines. Many times, we share special tools, or we might share capabilities or things like that. So, all that helps in building up the ecosystem to service and maintain airplanes in the Philippines.’

At the mezzanine outdoor area of Parkmall in Mandaue City, there’s a music school that displays a poster with the slogan: ‘The Stars of Tomorrow Start Here.’

It’s not some PR drive to get aspiring singers recruited to Music n Motion Academy. You’ll see from their poster that they really did develop some well-known talents, such as Sheena Belarmino, John Clifford, and P-pop group BILIB member Rafael Mumar.

They have also trained those who would later compete in reality singing competitions such as ‘It’s Showtime’s’ regular segment ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan,’ ‘The Voice Philippines,’ and ‘Idol Kids Philippines.’

‘I wasn’t the one who came up with that slogan, but it was from a parent of one of my students,’ the school’s founder, Leonyl Navarro, told The FREEMAN. ‘I thought it was being too confident, and I would tone it down. But the parent was insisting as a declaration for people to know what my school was capable of.’

Navarro, 42, founded Music n Motion Academy in 2014 at J Center Mall (now SM JMall), where his students performed at a benefit concert to raise funds for victims in Northern Cebu affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda. Impressed by their performance, the mall’s former marketing manager suggested that he hold a summer voice workshop at the establishment.

Navarro was then a freelance music tutor with many mentees, gaining recognition for his time as a former voice coach at the Cebu branch of the Center for Pop Music Philippines.

He was a passionate musician, having been a dancer for his alma mater, the University of San Jose-Reflectors, a member of the drum and bugle corps, and part of a church choir.

There was a point when Navarro doubted his future as a music coach and sought to move abroad for better job opportunities before founding Music n Motion.

‘I had relatives overseas who could help me find a job. But I missed coaching after leaving the Center for Pop Music,’ he shared. ‘Parents kept calling me to teach their kids, and I said yes.’

That opportunity to move abroad presented itself again during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the music school was closed, briefly reopened, and then shut down again due to the mall’s renovation after SM acquired J Center Mall. Their current branch stands at Parkmall, where they can go overtime when lessons continue past mall hours.

‘I felt like I wanted to give up. Even some parents would tell me about job opportunities abroad. But I guess God’s grace reminded me of my passion, no matter how hard the business went through,’ he said. ‘I asked God what His plan is for me. I still had this vision that I could be used as God’s instrument to help these kids fulfill their dreams.’

It’s for this reason that the name ‘Music n Motion’ isn’t strictly defined by offering vocal and dance lessons. ‘It’s about moving toward a purpose, something greater in the future,’ he explained.

– A ‘kingmaker’ for dreamers –

The FREEMAN asked Navarro about his students who made names for themselves in showbiz, such as Kapamilya singer-actress Sheena Belarmino.

‘Sheena goes to our workshops a lot because she wants to strive harder and work on her singing. She noticed that some of her classmates were good, especially Yessha De La Calzada from ‘The Voice Kids’ under Coach Lea [Salonga]. Sheena was driven and challenged by the way I trained her. She has this perseverance to improve, and that’s when I thought I could see her getting far,’ he said.

As for John Clifford, who is from the Kapuso talent agency Sparkle, Navarro said that he gained his confidence as a performer at Music n Motion.

‘He was a quiet, shy type at first. But throughout, his confidence grew in our school. He’s a good kid and wanted to develop his singing skills more, like Sheena. I am happy to see them on TV,’ he said prior to Clifford entering the house of Pinoy Big Brother as a housemate in ‘Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0.’

While Navarro has different stories about his students who achieved varying levels of success, he imparts to all of them two valuable lessons.

‘One of the secrets of being popular is to always humble yourself,’ he shared. ‘And they should not sing to impress, but to inspire. Many would get too confident that they are good at this, and they start thinking of themselves above others. But no, it’s not about that. They should not only improve their singing but also their personalities. Onstage and offstage, you need to be humble no matter what.’

Wanting to launch an in-house talent pool, Music n Motion and Stage K.I.T. Artists Management will be debuting their P-pop group ARZA this December, consisting of students Isaiah, Angel, Sophia, Jana, Dorothy, and Niña.

‘When you see them, you will immediately think of ARZA, the same way when people see BINI, it’s BINI. That’s our plan for this group. We want them to have sassy movements with eye-popping visuals to show their versatility. I want that kind of group here, especially in Cebu,’ he said.

For Navarro, his motivation isn’t fame for himself but creating opportunities for others to achieve it, as his fulfillment lies in witnessing his students’ growth and success.

‘I remember a pastor asked me if I would rather be a king or a kingmaker. I reflected on that, and I realized that I don’t want to be a king; I want to be a kingmaker. I want to be an instrument for my students to achieve their dreams as performers. That, for me, is an inspiring thing that money can’t buy.’

Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Region 9 (PDEA-9) seized P6.8 million worth of shabu from a suspected dealer in Barangay Don Andres, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, on Sunday, November 2. The operation was carried out with the assistance of confidential tipsters.

Bryan Babang, director of PDEA-9, said the 46-year-old male suspect was immediately frisked and cuffed after selling to their agents a kilo of shabu, costing P6.8 million, during a tradeoff in Barangay Don Andres in Ipil, with the help of villagers aware of his trafficking of illegal drugs in the municipality.

Babang said the entrapment operation that led to his arrest was backed by Police Regional Office-9 director Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta, as well as officials from police units in Zamboanga Sibugay under Matta’s operational control.

Babang said the entrapment operation that led to the detention of the suspect and confiscation from him of a kilo of shabu was planned with the help of local executives and senior members of the multi-sector Ipil Municipal Peace and Order Council.

Babang said the suspect is locked in a detention facility, awaiting prosecution for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Variable Unit-Linked (VUL) insurance gained popularity in the mid-2000s, surprising many with its dual benefits: life insurance coverage combined with an investment component.

What made it even more appealing was the promise of paying premiums for just around 10 years. Financial advisors widely promoted VUL as a smart, flexible solution for those seeking both protection and wealth growth in a single product.

When the pandemic hit, VUL earned a mixed reputation from Filipinos, with many policyholders expressing sentiments like, ‘Nalugi lang ako,’ ‘Hindi nag-grow ang investment’, or ‘Mas mabuti pa ang traditional or term insurance.’

The truth is, VUL is primarily a life insurance product with the added flexibility to potentially grow your money. It’s not a quick fix, nor is it a scam. Misunderstandings often arise when expectations are not clearly aligned, so thorough communication is key.

Here are five common concerns raised about VUL, and the things you should really know before deciding if it’s right for you.

1. ‘Nalugi lang ako sa VUL. Sabi nila investment ito, pero hindi nag-grow.’ (I lost money in my VUL. They said it was an investment, but it hasn’t grown.)

It’s understandable to feel frustrated. One major reason is that people may not be aware that VUL is designed as an insurance solution first, with an investment component built in. Knowing this can help set clearer expectations and guide better decisions.

The investment component of VUL is market-linked, which means your fund value can go up or down, depending on market conditions. It’s important to understand that the reason many VUL clients have seen a decline in their fund value is because these are typically invested in the local stock market, which has experienced minimal growth over the past decade.

If your VUL fund value didn’t grow during a market downturn, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it failed-the life insurance protection benefit remains intact, and that’s what matters more. The investment side can still recover and grow over the long term.

You can also ask your advisor to switch the investment funds, depending on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon.

2. ‘Ang sabi, 10 years to pay lang, pero pinagbayad pa rin ako nung pandemic kahit fully paid na.’ (I was told it’s 10 years to pay, but I still had to pay during the pandemic even after completing my payments.)

What people sometimes overlook-or perhaps are not informed about-is that VUL has flexible premium payments. You can design it for a limited pay period, but if the fund value drops (like during the pandemic), the policy may require additional payments to keep the insurance coverage active.

Technically, the investment component of the VUL continues to fund your insurance premiums even after the payment period ends, for as long as you live.

The advantage here is that you may pay for a limited time only, but your coverage continues for life. Compare this to term insurance, where you’ll need to keep paying premiums every year for as long as you want coverage, and at a higher premium as you get older.

With a well-funded VUL, you can enjoy lifetime protection without the worry of annual payments dragging on indefinitely.

3. ‘Mas okay sana kung traditional insurance na lang ang kinuha ko para mas maganda ang health benefits.’ (I should’ve just chosen traditional insurance instead, since the health benefits are better.)

Traditional life insurance and VUL serve different purposes. Traditional plans focus on fixed coverage, guaranteed endowment or health protection, while VULs give you flexibility-you can add riders for health, accident and critical illness benefit, while also having an investment component.

One isn’t better than the other; it always depends on your goals. If flexibility and long-term wealth, or legacy-building is more important to you, a VUL may be the right fit.

4. ‘Hindi naman pala guaranteed.’ (So it’s not guaranteed after all.)

Exactly-and that’s actually a good thing. If someone promises guaranteed high returns, that could be a red flag for a potential scam.

With a VUL, your investment portion is tied to market performance, which means it can grow over time, but it also comes with ups and downs. That’s the trade-off.

To make the most out of your VUL, it’s important to align your policy with your risk tolerance and long-term financial goals. One practical tip: consider allocating a manageable portion of your monthly income towards premiums. This helps ensure that your policy is well-funded, which can support the insurance charges even during market downturns.

5. ‘Ang dami palang dapat intindihin. Nakaka-overwhelm.’ (There’s so much to understand. It feels overwhelming.)

It is true that VULs can feel complex, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. A Sun Life advisor can help you understand your options, manage your expectations and build a plan that fits your unique life goals.

With the right partner, a VUL becomes less intimidating and more empowering. It’s a long-term financial tool designed to protect first and grow second. By understanding how it really works, you can make a confident choice for yourself and your family.

Sun Life offers a wide range of financial solutions designed to meet different needs and life goals. Whether you are securing your family’s future, planning for retirement or growing your wealth, there is a Sun Life plan that is right for you.