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I was reading the book ‘Ikigai’ by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, and I came across this phrase ‘Active Mind Youthful Body.’ I realized this speaks not only to the old people but to everybody since each day we are drawn closer to losing our younger days and slowing down our active minds.

Lately, I was struck by reality: that although ‘my spirit is willing, my body is weak.’ For the past years (30 or more), except when I am sick, I either go to the gym or workout at home almost every day. I try to discipline myself not to miss a day, especially my weights training. But for the past weeks I have been experiencing back pain; and the other day I suddenly felt an excruciating pain at the left back shoulder and must get an X-ray so my doctor can determine the reason for the pain.

For me, it was not about nature telling me I could not have that youthful body anymore. This was due to the fitness program that I had been adhering lately, which requires a lot of bending and squats with dumbbells to go along. These could have resulted to bone injuries, which could have caused such muscle pain or bone irregularity. I also realized I had not been drinking milk or taking calcium supplements, which I had been taking for granted.

Whether you are at your thirties, forties or even a lot older you should be mindful of not only your workouts and exercise but also of your diet. The blue zone senior people mentioned in the book are taking life every day at a pace in rhythm with nature. They have strong bones because of their active lifestyle of farming, fishing, household and community work. They don’t go to the gym and strain their muscles by lifting weights more than what their body can bear just like me. But their work provided enough exercise to keep their bones and muscles strong as a youth.

According to a study posted on mayoclinic.org/, most people reach peak bone mass around the age of 30. After that, bone remodeling continues. But you lose slightly more bone mass than you gain. This is because the body is always in the process of making bone and breaks down old bone and this process is what they call remodeling. New bone is made faster when you are still young than being broken down making your bone mass go up.

The point here is we should take care of our body just as we take care of the assets in our business. The body when healthy can cope up with any kind of work no matter what age, just like the blue zone senior people in Okinawa Japan and Sardinia Italy which are two of the five places where there are significant number of centenarians.

Their tasks require much physical work which makes their bodies strong. But not only that, they have active minds. Dementia were not major problems among the centenarians even at their age because they have constant social interaction and fun activities, too.

In our working world, an active mind is much needed, but we also should not take for granted our physical strength and to have fun times.

A French population-based study (sciencedirect.com/) shows the older that one retires, the lesser risk of dementia. It further explains that the longer people stay professionally active such as greater years of work, the more it provides a reserve that act to compensate for the effects of age-related cognitive impairment and pathology. Compared to early retirees, those who are still active in their work or business have lesser risk of dementia than those who stop working. The risk of dementia was respectively 28-percent and 43-percent lower in individuals who retired between 60-65 years old and those over the age of 65 years old.

Having an active mind does not only require intellectual knowledge. It requires time for meditation and resting your mind regularly or even just spending 15 minutes to 20 minutes a day writing your thoughts in a journal (whether it’s a gratitude, prayer or introspection journal) or having a quiet time relaxing and listening to soft music. It involves social interaction and stimulating activities and managing stress.

We all long for longer and quality life-and if you have not been conscious of it-it is never too late, whatever your age, to start taking care of your body, mind and soul now.

Wilma Miranda is a Finex Business Column Writer, the Managing Partner of Inventor, Miranda and Associates CPAs, Member-Board of Directors and former head of Business Development of Knowledge, Process, System Outsourcing. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinion of these institutions and the BusinessMirror.

The WMOC Group of Companies marked another major milestone with the inauguration and blessing of its new offices for WMOC Documentation Services and Worldwide Maritime Hospitality and Training Institute (WMHTI) at the 20th floor of the Trium Square Building along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Pasay City.

The event underscored the group’s continued growth and unwavering dedication to the maritime and hospitality sectors.

The ribbon-cutting and office blessing were led by WMOC Group President Rachelle B. Lopez and Vice President Noli Lopez, who were joined by family, friends, employees, industry leaders, and partners.

The celebration symbolized not just an expansion of facilities but a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and service to seafarers and hospitality professionals worldwide.

In her welcome remarks, Rachelle Lopez expressed deep pride and gratitude for the realization of the group’s vision. ‘We painstakingly worked hard for this,’ she said. ‘This milestone is a product of dedication, faith, and teamwork, a step forward toward serving both the hospitality and maritime industries with greater capacity and passion.’

Vice President Noli Lopez echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the perseverance and unity that sustained the group through challenges. ‘Despite the ordeals we faced, we remained steadfast in pursuing our goals,’ he shared. ‘This expansion reflects our belief that commitment and integrity are the anchors of true progress.’

The new headquarters serves as a hub for WMOC Documentation Services, a trusted provider of fast, reliable, and efficient documentation solutions for seafarers and maritime professionals around the world.

The company continues to raise the bar in documentation management and compliance, reflecting its dedication to adapting to the ever-evolving needs of the maritime industry through innovative systems and service quality.

Meanwhile, Worldwide Maritime Hospitality and Training Institute (WMHTI) was launched with a forward-looking mission – to uplift and enhance the standards of education and training in the hospitality, tourism, and maritime sectors.

Designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, WMHTI aims to produce globally competitive professionals equipped with the discipline, confidence, and technical know-how to excel in the international cruise and maritime industries.

Among the distinguished guests who graced the event FastCat’s Ms. Mary Ann Pastrana, an esteemed figure in the maritime sector, who lauded the Lopez couple for their resilience and sincerity. ‘They’ve stayed true to their commitment despite critics who contribute little to the industry,’ Pastrana said. ‘Their work makes a difference not only in the business but in the lives of countless Filipino families who depend on maritime and hospitality work.’

WMHTI has already forged meaningful collaborations with the Taiwan Cruise Industry Association, Enderun Colleges, and prominent hospitality establishments such as Okada Manila. Through these partnerships, the institute aims to deliver immersive, hands-on training and international ship familiarization programs that empower Filipino graduates to carry their skills, and national pride, aboard international cruise ships.

‘Our success is built on collaboration,’ Rachelle Lopez emphasized. ‘By working hand-in-hand with educational institutions and industry partners, we ensure that the next generation of professionals is not only skilled but also inspired to uphold the values of integrity, excellence, and Filipino pride.’

The event also featured the presentation of plaques of recognition to WMOC’s valued partners and contributors to the local maritime industry, a gesture of gratitude that underscored the company’s belief in collective progress.

As the WMOC Group continues to expand its reach and impact, its leaders reaffirmed their shared vision: to be a pillar of integrity, innovation, and service in both the maritime and hospitality sectors, shaping a brighter future for the Filipino workforce worldwide.

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the global business landscape, the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) puts innovation and inclusion at the center of its upcoming 54th National Marketing Conference (NMC), happening on October 23, 2025, at Hilton Manila, Newport World Resorts.

With the theme ‘AI-Nabled Marketing: Artificial Intelligence Inside Out,’ NMC 2025 highlights how AI empowers marketers, entrepreneurs, including MSMEs, brand creatives and storytellers, and educators, who are all critical players in helping shape the future of Philippine marketing and commerce.

Learn directly from renowned local and global marketers, innovators and thought leaders who are helping redefine the landscape of modern marketing through harnessing the power of AI and human intuition: Keynote Speaker- Pak Hermawan Kartajaya; Plenary Speakers- Dr. Donald Patrick Lim, CPM Asia, Lito Villanueva, Jel Directo, Ralph Regalado, Gian Dela Rama, Nonie Tobias-Azores and Anj Mendoza; and Breakout Speakers/Panelists- Dr. Ron Jabal, Carlo Cezar Pagulayan, Sharlyn Seet, Wence Wenceslao, Steve Sy, Patt Soyao, Ace Gapuz, Jerry Ilao, CPM, Eddie Lee, Amir Tohid, Josh Aquino, Ian Madrid, Arthur Policarpio and Eliezer Rabadon. NMC’s pool of moderators include Amrei Dizon, CPM, Cliff Eala, Irvin Domingo, Faith Abano, CPM and Jes Delos Santos.

NMC 2025 shall focus on how AI is transforming three key areas: content creation, commerce, and customer experience, enabling participants gain insights on leveraging AI tools to improve campaign effectiveness, personalize brand storytelling, optimize operations, and deliver seamless consumer journeys. The role of content has evolved from mere storytelling to crafting narratives that drive change. Sessions with top-tier content and digital strategists will delve on creating content that’s not only viral but valuable and relevant. The conference shall also decode the complexity of commerce, which is not anymore confined to point of sale, but embedded across ecosystems and shaped by varying platforms based on real-time consumer behavior. Also to be underscored are predictive personalization and emotional connection for the market’s seamless customer experience, which lead to loyalty and advocacy. AI is set to become a strategic ally, matched with human intervention, to optimize operations, making every business scalable and sustainable.

Plenary and breakout sessions will offer practical strategies and real-world case studies, covering:

AI for MSME Growth – Accessible tools for scaling marketing and operations

Human + Machine Collaboration – Using AI to amplify, not replace, creativity

Responsible and Inclusive Innovation – Ethical AI adoption for all sectors

Content, Commerce and CX – Building end-to-end brand experiences in an AI-driven world

More than a conference, NMC 2025 is designed as an avenue for learning, collaboration and cross-industry dialogue. Whether you’re an imagineering marketer, running a business, teaching next generation leaders, or championing brand strategy, this event equips you with the forward-thinking mindset and skills needed to adapt and thrive in the AI era.

As PMA champions a people-first approach, NMC 2025 serves as a timely reminder that while AI is the engine of change, human insight remains the driver of meaningful marketing with a lasting impact.

Register now and be part of this grand marketing convergence! Rates include P12,000 (VIP), P9,000 (PMA Member Regular), P10,000 (Non-PMA Member Regular), and 5 Regular+1 FREE Ticket for groups. For ticket reservation, contact Lira Ligero of the PMA Secretariat through 09173087877, or email at lira@philippinemarketing.net.ph

In another step towards building better communities, Megawide Corporate Foundation, Inc. (‘MCFI’ or ‘the Foundation’)-the corporate social responsibility arm of Megawide Construction Corporation (‘Megawide’)-recently completed two sustainability projects, embodying its mission to build sustainable, inclusive spaces.

A renewed home of hope and care for children in need

On 16 October, the Foundation formally turned over the newly renovated Milagrosa Dormitory to White Cross Children’s Home in San Juan City, providing a safe and nurturing home for children under the organization’s care.

The upgraded facility includes a sleeping area, play zone, and comfort rooms, all thoughtfully designed to create a space of comfort and security. The project was carried out through EConstruction, MCFI’s sustainability initiative that integrates eco-friendly materials, upcycled resources, and efficient design practices into community infrastructure.

‘This collaborative project is truly a labor of love and light,’ shared MCFI Executive Director Atty. Mia Castro. ‘Love, because it represents the compassion and collaboration among Megawide’s teams, partners, sponsors, and volunteers. And light, because it brings hope to the children of White Cross showing that they are seen, valued, and supported. This is how engineering a better future begins: with empathy and collective action.’

White Cross President Mary Concepcion Young expressed that the dormitory represents a fresh start and a renewed sense of home for their children.

‘We are deeply grateful to Megawide Foundation for their generosity. This dormitory gives our children a space built with care, compassion, and a commitment to their well-being,’ said Young.

Bridging urban life and nature through a sustainable space

Last October 10, MCFI also unveiled another EConstruction milestone-the Bird Hide Project-at the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP). The structure was designed as a sustainable viewing deck that supports birdwatching, biodiversity conservation, and environmental awareness. Built with recycled materials and efficient design principles, the project serves as a symbol of harmony between urban development and environmental stewardship.

‘The Bird Hide stands as proof that sustainability and social responsibility go hand in hand,’ shared MCFI President Tata Saavedra. ‘Our work goes beyond construction; we’re building trust, hope, and opportunities for a First-World Philippines. These projects show how thoughtful design can uplift lives while protecting our natural and social environments.’

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park Protected Area Superintendent Christopher Villarin also commended the initiative for its meaningful contribution to the environment.

‘This indeed is a meaningful contribution to our efforts in conserving urban biodiversity. It provides a safe and educational space for visitors to appreciate nature while reinforcing the importance of protecting ecosystems. We are thankful to Megawide Foundation for supporting our mission to balance development with environmental protection.’

Both projects were implemented in partnership with Megawide Construction, the Foundation’s key builder-partner that shares the same vision of empowering communities and advancing a First-World Philippines. The White Cross Milagrosa Dormitory was led by Group Operations Head Rey Rodrin, while the Bird Hide Project was headed by Group Operations Head Jules Ronquillo, showing the company’s unified commitment to social responsibility and sustainable innovation.

Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) continues to take the lead in redefining energy efficiency in Philippine real estate by deploying advanced cooling systems in its flagship Festival Mall and in Quest Hotel Clark under Filinvest Hospitality.

Executed through Philippine DCS Development Corporation (PDDC)- a joint venture of FLI and ENGIE-both initiatives are structured as 20-year Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) Energy Efficiency Performance projects that cover the full development, design, installation, operation, and long-term maintenance of these state-of-the-art systems. These landmark projects go beyond routine upgrades. They are bold statements of Filinvest’s commitment to decarbonize its portfolio, cut energy costs, and deliver future-ready assets that set a new benchmark for sustainable operations in Philippine real estate.

Festival Mall: Raising the Bar on Energy Performance

At Festival Mall, Filinvest Land is raising the bar for sustainable retail operations with a state-of-the-art cooling system that redefines both efficiency and comfort. This is not a simple upgrade-it is a decisive leap in how malls can operate more sustainably while delivering superior customer experience.

The initial phase targets a 36% reduction in energy consumption, with even greater efficiencies expected once the project reaches full implementation and commercial operations. This marks an unprecedented milestone in energy performance, setting a new standard for sustainable building operations.

Beyond energy savings, the impact will be felt where it matters most-comfort. Indoor cooling temperatures inside the mall will be a consistently cool 23-24°C. The result is a vastly enhanced customer experience, delivering greater comfort while consuming significantly less energy. This breakthrough proves that cutting-edge technology can drive both sustainability and customer satisfaction, reshaping the way malls operate for the future.

On top of comfort, the new system is projected to generate at least ?56.9 million in annual electricity savings-powerful proof that sustainability drives not only environmental gains but also stronger business performance.

‘Festival Mall’s new cooling system is a clear example of how we are future-proofing our assets through sustainable innovation,’ said Tristan Las Marias, President and CEO of Filinvest Land, Inc. ‘This project reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering greener, more reliable, and more efficient spaces for our stakeholders, while reinforcing our role in shaping sustainable communities nationwide.’

By marrying energy savings with superior customer experience, Festival Mall’s chilled water system proves that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand, setting a benchmark for retail developments across the country.

Quest Hotel Clark: 20-Year Commitment to Efficiency

At Quest Hotel Clark, PDDC is embarking on a 20-year Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) Energy Efficiency Performance project that will completely transform the hotel’s cooling and hot water systems. Covering the full cycle of design, financing, construction, operations, and maintenance, the project also ensures meticulous preventive care and a replacement program of the airside system, securing efficiency and reliability for decades to come.

The timeline reflects the scale of ambition: a swift two-month mobilization, followed by 14 months of construction, testing, and commissioning, before entering 20 years of continuous operations and maintenance. Once operational, the project will cut the hotel’s cooling energy use in half and avoid roughly 7,400 tons of carbon dioxide emissions – an environmental gain comparable to planting 56,000 tree seedlings.

‘As the pioneer of large-scale district cooling system in the Philippines, PDDC is proud to be leading this transformation at Quest Hotel Clark,’ said Engr. Jonathan Urbano, General Manager of PDDC. ‘This project not only demonstrates how advanced technology can deliver significant energy savings, but also how sustainability can be integrated into hospitality operations to create long-term value for businesses, communities, and the environment.’

‘Our partnership with Filinvest goes beyond project delivery – it’s about demonstrating how large-scale cooling can reshape the future of sustainable cities in the Philippines,’ said Jacques Boonen, Managing Director, Southeast Asia, ENGIE. ‘Through PDDC, we combine Filinvest’s local leadership with ENGIE’s global expertise to deliver measurable energy savings, reliability, and tangible progress towards decarbonization.’

Driving the Philippines’ Energy Transition

These milestone projects are more than isolated efforts-they are part of a nationwide shift that supports the Philippines’ energy transition agenda and advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and SDG 13: Climate Action). By introducing modern and environmentally conscious cooling systems in both hospitality and retail, Filinvest Land is actively cutting emissions, setting new standards for sustainable and efficient commercial operations at scale, and pioneering benchmarks for green operations in the country’s real estate sector.

While other companies are exploring renewable energy and efficiency solutions, PDDC remains the first and only provider to deliver large-scale district cooling in the country. This positions Filinvest Land’s joint venture with ENGIE as a trailblazer in the Philippines-introducing a globally proven technology that has transformed energy use in cities like Singapore, Dubai, and Paris, and adapting it for local needs. By doing so, PDDC is proving that greener infrastructure is not just possible in the Philippines, but commercially viable and operationally superior as seen in its other projects – The Northgate, Filinvest City Alabang District Cooling System currently serving 14 buildings, LIPAD Clark International Airport, Entrata Urban Complex and PBCom Tower.

Filinvest Land, through PDDC, is reaffirming its long-term commitment to sustainability and innovation. The landmark projects at Quest Hotel Clark and Festival Mall are part of a broader drive and strategy to embed energy-efficient, low-carbon solutions across Filinvest’s nationwide portfolio with Filinvest REIT Corp. already leading the way in the office sector. By taking the lead in this transformation, Filinvest Land is shaping not just greener properties, but a more resilient future for communities across the Philippines.

With a proven track record of delivering substantial energy savings, zero-downtime reliability, and lower carbon emissions, PDDC is expanding its solutions beyond the Filinvest ecosystem. Companies with large-scale cooling needs can now entrust PDDC with the future-proofing and operations of their cooling systems through long-term Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) arrangements. This allows client leaders to focus on growing their core businesses-without the burden of significant CAPEX or customer concerns over indoor climate comfort and performance.

SOMEWHERE in your house, there might be plants waiting to be repotted, a stack of newly bought books, or a pile of boxes needing to be inventoried. Perhaps there is a folder on your laptop labeled ‘Work in Progress’ filled with drafts, designs, or ideas waiting for a perfect moment that never quite arrived. If this sounds familiar, you are in good company. Many people carry the quiet guilt of unfinished projects. Yet, perhaps it is time to look at them differently and learn that not everything needs to reach the finish line to have value.

Our environment often glorifies completion. We celebrate the people who finish marathons, publish books, and master new skills. There is a sense that to stop before completing anything is to fail. However, life rarely follows neat timelines. Sometimes, circumstances change. Sometimes, interest fades. And sometimes, a project serves its purpose long before it is complete. The truth is that the act of beginning something or daring to explore an idea already counts as progress.

Think about the excitement that comes with starting something new. The blank page, the fresh set of tools, or the first spark of creativity brings energy and possibility. That moment alone has value because it allows you to learn something about yourself. Maybe you discovered that woodworking is not your passion after all, or that writing poetry helps you express emotions better than keeping a journal. The lesson lies not only in finishing but also in trying. Every unfinished project teaches something about your preferences, your limits, and your growth.

Making peace with unfinished projects starts with releasing guilt. Instead of thinking, ‘I never finished that painting,’ try saying, ‘That painting helped me relax during a stressful time.’

Changing the story you tell yourself transforms regret into gratitude. Not every effort leads to a grand result. Some projects are stepping stones which helps you practice patience or creativity for something else that will come later.

You can start by taking inventory of your half-done tasks. Make a list of everything that feels incomplete, whether it is cleaning the garage, learning a language, or organizing family photos. Then, ask yourself three questions. First, does this project still matter to me? Second, do I have the time or energy to continue it now? Third, what do I gain from keeping it on my plate? If the answer to any of these is no, it might be time to release it without guilt.

Letting go can be symbolic. You can donate materials from a craft you no longer enjoy, delete digital drafts that no longer speak to you, or pass on an idea to someone who might find completion in it. In doing so, you are not giving up. You are clearing space for new beginnings. Sometimes, closure comes not from finishing but from deciding to stop.

For the projects that still matter, try redefining what ‘finished’ means. Perhaps you started a photo album that you never completed. Instead of waiting for the perfect layout, print a few favorite pictures and frame them. If you began learning guitar but stopped midway, you can still play a song or two whenever you feel like it. Progress does not always require perfection. Small completions count too.

Another helpful practice is to set time limits on revisiting old projects. Tell yourself, ‘I will give this one hour this week and see how I feel.’ Often, the simple act of revisiting rekindles interest or brings closure. You might rediscover the joy of working on it or realize that your enthusiasm has truly passed. Either way, you are moving forward.

It is also important to be kind to yourself when reflecting on why projects remain unfinished. Sometimes life gets in the way, and priorities shift. A job change, family responsibilities, or health concerns can alter your energy and focus. Instead of viewing these interruptions as failures, see them as reminders that you are human. Productivity is not the only measure of worth. Living fully sometimes means choosing rest, relationships, and reflection over relentless completion.

Unfinished projects can even serve as creative compost. The poem that never became a book might inspire a new article. The sketch that was never framed might lead to a digital design. Nothing you create is wasted because every attempt adds to your experience. When you see your efforts as part of a bigger journey rather than isolated results, you free yourself from unnecessary pressure.

So the next time you come across a half-written story, a neglected plan, or a forgotten goal, take a deep breath. Appreciate what it once gave you and what it taught you. You do not have to finish everything you start to have lived meaningfully. Completion is satisfying, but curiosity, courage, and creativity are even more beautiful. Sometimes, peace comes not from crossing something off the list but from accepting that the list itself will always be a work in progress.

Former House leader Ace Barbers has linked the recent string of allegations against former Speaker Martin Romualdez to what he described as a ‘hit or miss demolition job’ initiated by a certain Orly Regala Guteza at a Senate hearing last month.

Barbers, former lead figure of the House Quad Committe, said the pattern of baseless charges suggests a coordinated smear drive aimed at undermining the credibility of the former Speaker.

He said Guteza’s surprise appearance before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on September 25, 2025, appeared to have triggered a wave of follow-up stories and unverified claims targeting Romualdez.

Guteza, a self-proclaimed former Marine sergeant, alleged that he and several companions personally delivered several suitcases of cash to the residences of Romualdez and lawmaker Zaldy Co.

Romualdez had promptly denied the accusation, describing it as fabricated, malicious, and politically motivated, and emphasized

that no such delivery ever took place.

His legal team questioned the authenticity of Guteza’s affidavit and pointed to discrepancies in dates and circumstances, including the fact that the Romualdez residence was reportedly unoccupied due to renovation during the alleged delivery period.

Barbers said that the Senate committee should handle the testimony with caution, noting that the statement of a lone witness without corroboration can easily be used as a tool for character assassination.

After his sudden Senate hearing episode, Guteza reportedly failed to submit himself to the Justice department to affirm his allegations, and instead, he had gone missing since then.

Barbers also observed that the Guteza episode coincided with other reports attempting to link the former Speaker to alleged anomalies in farm-to-market road projects in Tacloban and with the circulation of fake news about Romualdez being made a state witness.

In September, reports emerged alleging overpricing in farm-to-market road projects in Leyte that were supposedly tied to Romualdez’s political stronghold.

However, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. later clarified that an internal audit found the projects in Leyte and Tacloban to be in order, with no ghost or substandard roads identified.

Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno likewise said the timing of the allegations was suspicious and suggested they were part of a coordinated demolition campaign against the former Speaker.

Adding to the controversy, a number of social media posts falsely claimed that Romualdez was being considered as a possible state witness in the ongoing flood-control investigation.

The Department of Justice immediately denied the report, stating categorically that Romualdez had never applied for, nor was he being considered for, any form of witness protection or testimonial immunity.

Then Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla branded the online posts as ‘misinformation’ and clarified that no such discussions existed within the DOJ.

Barbers said the spread of fake news about Romualdez being a state witness was likely intended to embarrass the former Speaker or to lend false credibility to graft allegations that remain unproven.

He stressed that public discourse should be based on verified facts rather than orchestrated propaganda, warning that such tactics erode trust in institutions and damage reputations without due process.

The same sentiment on due process was aired a couple of days by Makati Business Club executive director Rafael ‘Apa’ Ongpin who called on President Marcos to stay impartial in pursuing the quest for truth and in exacting accountability to those behind the public works controversy, particulary in flood control projects.

As of this writing, none of the three issues – Guteza’s ‘hit or miss’ Senate Blue Ribbon panel surprise testimony, the farm-to-market road allegations, and the state-witness narrative – have been substantiated by any official finding from either the Senate, the Department of Agriculture, or the Department of Justice.

PARIS Olympian Aleah Finnegan missed the grade in the women’s all-around on Wednesday leaving Carlos Yulo the last man standing for the Philippines in the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta.

Finnegan was No. 22 entering the all-around final but dropped to 33rd overall with a score of 49.299 points to miss the top 24 cut for Thursday’s gold medal round.

Yulo, 25, is now bracing for a heavy final schedule in Friday’s men’s floor exercise, where he placed second overall in qualification, and Saturday’s vault, which he topped the qualification.

Worlds first-timer Juancho Miguel Besana finished 39th in the men’s individual all-around qualification round where also only the top 24 athletes will make it to the final.

Ivan Cruz wound up 66th overall in vault with 12.00, while Justine Ace de Leon landed on 45th in the rings-only the top eight per apparatus will qualify for the final.

Haylee Garcia, 16, finished 44th in the women’s individual all-around event with 45.098, Emma Malabuyo took the 24th spot in floor exercise (12.300) and 26th in balance beam (12.00) and Yulo’s younger sister Elaiza was 79th in uneven bars and 32nd in vault with 11.40.

Yulo’s under the tutelage of Australian Nedal Alyousef and Filipino Aldrin Casteñeda and both coaches believe he’ll duplicate the two gold medals in the same events he won in Paris last year.

‘I saw both Carlos Yulo and Jake Jarman in Paris and I believe our athlete has the cleaner routine,’ Alyousef said in a message relayed by Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion-Norton.

LOCAL governments (LGU) will soon be given funding and authority to construct classrooms under a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to be signed by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), according to Malacañang.

President Marcos ordered the signing of the new MOA to fast-track the construction of public school classrooms.

‘The President wants the shortage of classrooms to be addressed as soon as possible for the good of the students,’ Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in Filipino during a press briefing in Malacañang on Wednesday.

‘President Marcos believes that having well-organized and sustainable classrooms will serve as the foundation for developing the wisdom, knowledge, and talent of Filipino youth, which is being promoted under the Bagong Pilipinas,’ she added.

Under the new MOA, the funds and the construction of classrooms will be handled by LGUs. The implementation of the said public works will then be monitored by DPWH and DepEd.

A total of 2,370 classrooms are expected to be built soon through the new MOA.

Prior to the agreement, DPWH handled the funds and construction of classrooms.

Castro said the new initiative is expected to help address the classroom shortage, which has reached 150,000 according to DepEd.

The Palace official made the announcement after it was revealed in a Senate hearing on Monday that of the 1,700 classrooms that were expected to be constructed this year, only 22 were completed and 900 others were still pending.

Citing the latest government data, Castro said 200 classrooms are expected to be completed by December.

She said another 822 classrooms are expected to be finished by early 2026 and another 2,000 by the third quarter next year.