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Teams from Casili and Polog reigned supreme in the Midget division of the 15th Mayor Teresa Alegado Cup Inter-Barangay Fiesta Basketball League in Consolacion, Cebu.

In the Midget Category A, Casili escaped Tayud, 91-88, in the deciding match of their best-of-three finals to clinch the title.

AJ Arranguez shepherded Casili to crowning glory with 20 points on top of six rebounds, six assists, and five steals in a scintillating all-around performance.

Kennie Lugatiman and Jack Yara complemented the efforts of Arranguez with 17 and 12 points, respectively.

Brando Garbo, Kristoff Cuyos and Harvey Suralisa combined for 63 big points in a losing cause for Tayud.

On the other hand, Polog completed a two-game sweep of Tolotolo in decisive fashion, 102-66, to claim the Midget Category B crown.

Gabriel Godinez shined the brightest for Polog with 19 points, five rebounds, eight assists and three steals. Jared Padayogdog added 17 points while Klent Lato chipped in 11 markers as Polog capped its dominant campaign with a flourish.

Jivie Bihag paced Tolotolo with 12 points followed by Andrey Maglangit and Frances Estole with 11 and 10 points.

A consumer group is pressing the Department of Energy (DOE) to remove the exemption that allows the country’s first operational nuclear power plant (NPP) to bypass competitive bidding for supply deals.

The National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc. (Nasecore) strongly opposed a DOE circular’s provision enabling distribution utilities (DUs) to procure power from the pioneer NPP even without undergoing a competitive selection process (CSP).

The move would ‘deny and deprive consumers of their statutory right to least-cost power and expose them to long-term financial burdens resulting from non-competitive procurement,’ the group said in a letter to Energy Secretary Sharon Garin.

The STAR obtained a copy of the letter, which was also furnished to President Marcos, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Senate President Vicente Sotto III and House Speaker Faustino Dy III.

This follows Garin’s signing of a department circular establishing a comprehensive framework for the integration of nuclear energy into the Philippines’ power generation mix.

Under the guidelines, DUs are mandated to ensure a ready market for the available capacity of the pioneer NPP, which will be exempt from the conduct of a CSP.

Nasecore president Pete Ilagan, however, argued that the provision contradicted the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), the DOE’s own circulars and Supreme Court rulings governing the CSPs.

Ilagan specifically pointed to Section 23 of EPIRA and two earlier DOE circulars that mandate all DUs to conduct a CSP for power supply procurement.

He also cited the High Court’s Alyansa ruling, which upheld the mandatory nature of CSPs.

‘Undoubtedly, these issuances institutionalized CSP as the mechanism to ensure least-cost, transparent and competitive procurement of power supply for all DUs,’ Ilagan emphasized.

Ilagan said Nasecore may be forced to pursue legal action to protect the public interest should the DOE refuse to withdraw the said provision.

‘We trust that the department will act swiftly to preserve the integrity of energy regulation and the public’s confidence in the DOE’s commitment to consumer protection and energy justice,’ he added.

Under the country’s nuclear roadmap, the government aims to deliver the first kilowatt-hours of nuclear power by 2032.

The Philippines’ first attempt to utilize nuclear energy was through the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, which was completed in 1984 but never commissioned due to safety and political issues.

Top content creators, social media leaders and celebrity guests-with a combined reach of over one billion followers-are set to gather in Macao for CreatorWeek 2025, a five-day event happening from October 24 to 28.

Jointly organized by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and international media production company Branded, the event aims to leverage their influence to showcase Macao as a premier travel destination for young audiences and inject new momentum into the local tourism economy.

Spotlighting Macao’s creative energy

Event highlights were unveiled during a launch held on Monday, October 13, at the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Centre.

In her speech, Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director of MGTO, said CreatorWeek Macao 2025 will unveil the city’s unique glamour and multicultural heritage to the world, injecting fresh creative momentum into Macao’s transformation into a world center of tourism and leisure.

Jasper Donat, CEO and co-founder of Branded, introduced the event’s concept and lineup of international creators. The launch also featured representatives from multi-channel networks who discussed using the event to bridge overseas creators with the Chinese market, while local creators shared their vision for connecting with the global industry.

Platform for learning, culture exchange

Organizers described CreatorWeek as an ecosystem for inspiration and collaboration, designed to create tangible opportunities for both creators and brands.

According to Donat, collaboration is essential for success in today’s global creator landscape, emphasizing the event’s focus on fostering cross-cultural partnerships.

He added that a key goal is to see international and local creators co-creating content across Macao while learning how to succeed in different regional markets.

The event also aims to inspire the next generation of talent. With content creation becoming one of the most aspirational careers, the event’s Creator Academy will provide a path for emerging creators to learn from established industry leaders.

For the Macao Government Tourism Office, hosting the event is a strategic move to innovate beyond its comfort zone and meet the demands of modern travelers who seek unique experiences.

MGTO dirrctor de Senna Fernandes, emphasized that the event offers a new way to promote Macao. She highlighted that the creator space is not limited by age, but is open to anyone “very young at heart” who wants to tell interesting stories to an international audience.

‘For the future, we definitely look forward to listening to more stories and getting ourselves more involved in their stories,’ she said.

Global lineup of creative talents

Pitched as one of Asia’s largest gatherings for content creators, the event is expected to bring together approximately 250 groups, including 180 content creators, 50 guest speakers and 20 performing acts from both international and Greater China markets.

Among the partcipating creators is Filipino-Canadian content creator Mikey Bustos, who will have his own meet-and-greet session on October 26.

The five-day festival will also feature six major themed activities designed to foster multicultural dialogue and offer immersive creative experiences across the city.

CreatorWeek Opening and Closing Party: Provides networking opportunities for creators, speakers and top international creative leaders.

CreatorWeek Conference: A two-day conference focusing on social media trends, platform developments and the future of the creator economy. Notable speakers include representatives from YouTube and Snapchat, and the manager for MrBeast, YouTube’s most-subscribed channel.

CreatorWeek Live: Two nights of musical performances from 20 international and local artists and bands against the city’s nightscape.

CreatorWeek Meet and Greet: Fans can connect with 40 top creators including freestyle dancer Merrick Hanna, video creator Austin Sprinz and Netflix actor Ian Boggs.

CreatorWeek Wellness Workshop: Four sessions on yoga, dance, fitness and meditation led by creators and key opinion leaders.

CreatorAcademy: Practical sessions for 100 to 200 mid-tier creators on quality content creation, audience growth and brand collaborations, leveraging Macao’s unique cultural backdrop.

Fostering local and international collaboration

The organizers recently selected 20 local ambassadors through a recruitment program. These ambassadors will partner with 20 visiting international creators for a VIP journey to experience Macao from a local perspective.

The collaboration aims to produce content that blends local insights with international appeal, showcasing the city’s culture and creative scene to a global audience.

The first edition of CreatorWeek was held in Singapore in 2024. This year’s event in Macao is sponsored by the city’s six integrated resort enterprises with support from 25 local, Greater China and international entities.

The holidays in the Philippines are more than just a season of joy – they are the ultimate test of resilience for businesses, especially for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Every December, the surge in demand brings opportunity but also intense pressure: how do you keep customers happy when expectations are at their highest?

Holiday success for sellers should not only be about hitting sales numbers but also building loyalty that lasts long after the season ends.

The service recovery advantage

No seller wants things to go wrong, but the reality is that they often do during peak season. What sets resilient sellers apart is how they respond. Behavioral research describes this as the service recovery paradox: when problems are resolved exceptionally well, customers become even more satisfied than if everything had gone perfectly.

For sellers, this means treating service recovery as a growth strategy, not just damage control:

Proactive communication. Use templated chat updates or automated messages to handle inquiries. Our data shows that sellers who respond to buyer inquiries on the same day are far more likely to attract first-time buyers than those who take longer to respond.

Quick resolutions. Have ready SOPs for late dispatches, stockouts or damaged items. Don’t wait for complaints or escalation. A swift refund or replacement can turn a potential one-star review into repeat business.

Personalized touches. A simple apology note or a voucher for the next purchase signals genuine care and Filipino shoppers appreciate sellers who show malasakit.

Handled well, mistakes become opportunities to strengthen trust and stand out from competitors.

From rush to resilience

Sellers do not have to scramble all the time preparing for the holidays if they learn to anticipate. Successful sellers practice discipline on two fronts:

Operational discipline. Track your on-time delivery rate weekly, not monthly. Identify which SKUs or couriers are most prone to delays and fix those gaps early. Research consistently shows that dependable delivery is the top driver of repeat purchases in e-commerce. Data shows that sellers who consistently ship out their orders faster are less likely to experience buyer-initiated cancellations. Reliability compounds into loyalty.

Real-time insights. Using analytics to spot trends and plan stock prevents costly stockouts and lost opportunities. Sellers who stock their shops accordingly and minimize cancellations are more likely to retain customers and prevent them from switching to competitors.

The broader industry shift reflects this: e-commerce has become a lifeline for MSMEs, enabling market expansion and direct consumer engagement. Platforms like Shopee provide the campaign tools, customizable storefronts and reliable fulfillment that allow sellers to spend less time firefighting and more time scaling.

Shaping loyalty through micro-moments

Filipino buyers now measure value by the overall experience, not just the price tag. That experience is shaped by micro-moments in the customer journey.

Discovery: Buyers find products through search and categories, amplified by AI-powered listings, livestream selling and affiliate recommendations that help sellers connect faster with the right audience.

Evaluation: Buyers judge credibility through ratings and reviews, AR virtual try-ons and detailed product videos, creating a richer shopping experience.

Transaction: Buyers expect a seamless checkout, supported by multiple secure payment options, zero percent installments and Buy Now, Pay Later. Post-purchase communication is also imperative through a responsive chat and real-time order updates.

Advocacy: Buyers share their experiences after purchase, reinforced by smooth delivery, unboxing and thoughtful follow-up that turn satisfied shoppers into brand advocates.

Two moments matter most: the best touchpoint and the final one – the peak-end rule. Sellers who create a standout interaction, such as a personalized message or small freebie and close with a frictionless delivery and unboxing often win loyalty that outlasts the season.

From knowledge to growth

The strongest sellers pair technology with continuous learning. Shopee University is designed to equip sellers with the practical skills they need to thrive – from shop setup and campaign participation to analytics and marketing. Sellers who complete at least three structured training modules often see a lift in their order performance, proving that knowledge directly fuels growth.

This learning is also reinforced through the Tatak Pinoy MSME Roadshow, which extends training nationwide, even to non-Shopee sellers. By bringing learning opportunities across the country, these initiatives help MSMEs strengthen their operational skills, preparing them not only for peak season but also for long-term competitiveness.

Competing on experience, not just price

At the end of the day, Filipino shoppers know what they want: reliable delivery, transparent pricing, hassle-free returns and genuine service. Sellers who prioritize these experiences don’t just win during Christmas – they build businesses that grow sustainably year-round.

With the right preparation, service discipline and commitment to learning, the holiday rush can be more than a seasonal peak. It can be the foundation for resilience, loyalty and long-term success in the digital economy.

When World War II ended, the country lay in ruins, homes flattened, bridges blown apart, and its economy shattered. The United States pledged to help its former colony rise again. Which was just logical, because we were drawn into the war because of U.S. presence here. The U.S. promised massive reconstruction aid, but delays, corruption, and favoritism left many Filipinos uncompensated. In return, the Bell Trade Act tied the nation’s economy to Washington by granting Parity Rights to American investors –an arrangement denounced by nationalists as economic servitude yet accepted by President Manuel Roxas out of financial necessity. Meanwhile, the U.S. strengthened its military foothold through the 1947 Military Assistance Agreement and base leases at Clark and Subic, ensuring its presence for decades. These moves underscored that U.S. aid was driven by strategic, not charitable, motives, positioning the Philippines as America’s first line of defense in Asia.

The U.S. pledged rural reform, anti-corruption, and institution-building, but in reality, backed local elites who maintained the landlord system, causing agrarian reform to fail and rural poverty to persist. Development projects became tools of political patronage, tolerated by Washington as long as Manila remained anti-communist. Filipino veterans, who had fought alongside Americans, were denied equal benefits under the 1946 Rescission Act, receiving only partial justice decades later. In the end, America rebuilt and armed the Philippines –but on its own terms, leaving the nation economically and militarily dependent for generations.

Elpidio Quirino battled Huk insurgency, corruption, and inflation, relying on U.S. aid tied to anti-corruption oversight. Ramon Magsaysay restored public trust through rural development and counterinsurgency, hailed as a U.S. Cold War success, but his death ended hopes for deeper land reform. Carlos P. Garcia’s ‘Filipino First’ policy sought economic independence yet faltered under business resistance, U.S. pressure, and persistent corruption. Diosdado Macapagal implemented Decontrol and agrarian reform, earning IMF praise but facing domestic backlash over inflation. Ferdinand Marcos, initially promising reform, turned authoritarian –concentrating power, suppressing dissent, and amassing huge foreign debts. Though infrastructure expanded, the 1980s debt crisis and corruption left the economy in ruins.

Corazon Aquino grappled with seven coup attempts, widespread poverty, and natural disasters. The 1991 Senate vote rejecting the renewal of U.S. bases ended U.S. military presence, yet economic gains remained limited and agrarian reform under CARP was divisive. Fidel V. Ramos revived investor confidence through liberalization, privatization, and peace with the MNLF, but was later derailed by the Asian Financial Crisis. Joseph Estrada promised to fight poverty but fell to corruption and impeachment, while his ‘all-out war’ against the MILF displaced thousands and reignited Mindanao conflict. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo faced fiscal deficits, insurgencies, and legitimacy crises, relying on the U.S. post-9/11 alliance for security and passing the Expanded VAT law to stabilize finances amid constant scandals.

Benigno Aquino III restored investor confidence and scoring a historic legal victory over China in 2016, but his leadership was challenged by major crises like Typhoon Haiyan and the Mamasapano clash. His successor, Rodrigo Duterte, reversed course with the drug war, a pivot toward China, and populist defiance of the West. Massive infrastructure spending under ‘Build, Build, Build’ drove growth but exposed deep governance and inequality issues, especially during the Marawi siege and the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. faces the difficult task of balancing U.S.-China tensions in the South China Sea, addressing widespread corruption allegations, and defining his presidency amid renewed global scrutiny of Philippine sovereignty.

Since World War II, the Philippines has remained formally independent but constantly negotiating its autonomy. The U.S. fulfilled its promise to rebuild, yet did so in ways that kept the country economically and militarily dependent. From Roxas to Marcos Jr., every administration has faced the same enduring challenges –strengthening institutions, fighting corruption, reducing poverty, balancing foreign alliances, and upholding democracy. Leaders have come and gone, but the nation’s ongoing struggle for true independence, integrity, and prosperity continues.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $400-million loan to support reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of the insurance industry in the Philippines.

In a statement yesterday, ADB said the policy-based loan for the Insurance Reform Program, Subprogram 1 is intended to support reforms in regulation and supervision and to help strengthen the role of institutions in providing long-term credit for government infrastructure projects.

The new program will be implemented in three sequenced subprograms and in partnership with the Insurance Commission.

It will involve reforms including digitalization and climate finance to enhance resilience, as well as promote financial inclusion and consumer trust.

Through the loan, the aim is to have a more efficient, consumer-oriented and technologically advanced insurance market.

In addition, the loan is expected to help strengthen climate risk management and disaster resilience.

‘This program is a strategic investment in the Philippines’ sustainable and inclusive economic future,’ ADB country director for the Philippines Andrew Jeffries said.

‘By modernizing the regulatory framework, we are not only strengthening the insurance industry itself – we are building a critical line of protection for the nation, mobilizing long-term capital for development and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth reach every Filipino entrepreneur and household,’ Jeffries said.

The loan is ADB’s first dedicated insurance reform program in the Philippines.

The multilateral lender has been providing support for the Philippine insurance industry and capital markets development through past initiatives including the Inclusive Finance Development Program and the Support to Capital Market-Generated Infrastructure Financing Program.

ADB is also providing support for related reforms such as parametric and indemnity insurance through the Second Disaster Resilience Improvement Program, agriculture insurance through the Climate Change Action Program and health insurance under the Build Universal Health Care Program.

Guided by the country partnership strategy for 2024 to 2029, ADB is providing support to the Philippines to enable the country to achieve greater inclusion, climate resilience and sustainable economic growth.

PLDT resumes its quest for a three-peat feat as it clashes with a Choco Mucho squad that is hoping its import Anyse Smith can finally play in Thursday’s PVL Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The High Speed Hitters had an auspicious start following a 25-22, 25-20, 25-23 win over the Capital1 Solar Spikers at the Big Dome Monday, with Russian Anastasiia Bavykina proving a great fit to the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned franchise.

Bavykina debuted with 15 hits, but she didn’t really need to score that much with Savi Davison doing most of the attacking chores that helped seal the win and launch the reigning PVL on Tour and Invitational champion’s bid for a treble.

And PLDT coach Rald Ricafort said the team has still so much more to give.

‘We’re hoping that with the chemistry, we could jell even more,’ he said.

The Flying Titans were equally impressive in their first game after shocking the Cignal Super Spikers, 23-25, 25-19, 25-16, 27-25, despite playing minus Smith, who was forced to sit that one out due to International Transfer Certificate issues.

There’s a strong chance Smith could finally get to see action in their 6:30 p.m. showdown.

Filling the massive void in Smith’s absence were Maddie Madayag, Isa Molde, Des Cheng and Kat Tolentino, who unloaded 18, 17, 14 and 10 points, respectively.

‘Our mindset has always been to help each other despite the challenges. This was the reason we got the win,’ said Choco Mucho mentor Dante Alinsunurin.

Also eyeing to stay unbeaten in Pool A is Farm Fresh, which downed Nxled, 22-25, 25-23, 25-19, 25-21, last week in Dasmariñas following a masterful 38-point effort by Belgian thunderbolt Helene Rousseaux.

The Foxies battle the Super Spikers (0-1) at 1:30 p.m.

Completing the heavy three-game offering is the 4 p.m. clash between Capital1 (0-1) and Nxled (0-1).

Being diagnosed and then told that you have diabetes is not a death sentence.

Yes, it is true that once you have it, you cannot just shoo it away. Diabetes is a lifelong condition, which happens when the body cannot produce enough insulin or use it properly, thus leading to elevated blood sugar levels over time. You have to refrain from eating too much sweets, carbohydrates and a whole lot of other stuff to keep your blood sugar level from spiking.

In the Philippines, over 4.7 million adults live with diabetes and many do not even know it until symptoms or complications appear. Family history, poor eating habits, and a lack of physical activity are common risk factors – but the good news is, diabetes can be managed.

You may have to live with diabetes once you reach that point, but it does not have to stop you from living fully. If left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health complications – but with the right care, you can stay in control.

For many, nutrition becomes a turning point when incorporated as part of a healthy lifestyle program. You cannot just keep your sugar and carbohydrate intake in control. Your nutrition program has to be already be geared towards diabetes control, and that means eating the proper food and incorporating nutritional supplements that will help you keep your blood sugar in check.

Studies have shown that diabetes-specific nutritional supplements such as Glucerna provide complete and balanced nutrients to support those with diabetes and are clinically proven to help deliver better blood sugar control.

No amount of lecture, though, could compare with a direct and personal encounter with persons who are living with diabetes and are not just surviving but thriving in spite of their health condition.

Edna Panaligan Sta. Ana, Ramon Borromeo and Salvador Baroro share their real life stories and suggest real solutions to the problem. They have found ways to integrate proper nutrition and daily movement into a sustainable lifestyle, proving that managing diabetes can also mean thriving.

Developing structured daily routine

Edna Panaligan Sta. Ana, 64, received her diabetes diagnosis during a routine health screening at a local mall. Although her mother was diagnosed with diabetes, Edna was convinced she had ‘escaped it.’

That belief changed quickly when her blood sugar was recorded at 200 mg/dL, significantly higher than the typical random blood glucose level of 125 mg/dL or lower. Shocked but determined, she immediately took action.

Upon her diagnosis in 2003, Edna immediately developed a structured daily routine anchored on prevention. Her mornings begin with light indoor cycling or a walk around her garden. She prepares home-cooked meals rich in vegetables and fiber.

Her advocacy extends beyond her home: Edna runs a Facebook page called Elderly of Santa Maria Bulacan, where she shares health tips and nutritional inspirations for fellow elderly Filipinos.

Thanks to her consistency, Edna now maintains her blood sugar at a healthier range of 120 mg/dL. Her story shows that living well with diabetes is not about restrictions but about creating daily habits and nutritional strategies that support energy, health, and independence in older adults.

Overhauling old lifestyle

Ramon Borromeo, 62, a retired seaman, discovered he had diabetes in 1990 during a required medical exam before boarding a ship. Unlike others, he had no symptoms at the time, but the diagnosis motivated him to overhaul his lifestyle. He cut out sugary food, switched to a low-carb diet, and made sure to take his medications on every sea voyage.

In 2024, after experiencing nighttime chills and shaking – which are often signs of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar – his doctor advised him to take one serving of the nutritional supplement. The effect was both physical and emotional: his blood sugar dropped from 162 mg/dL to 108 mg/dL, and he no longer wakes up trembling but enjoys uninterrupted sleep.

Ramon’s case illustrates the significant benefits of managing glucose variability – particularly during the night, a challenge often overlooked in individuals who have lived with diabetes for many years. His improved sleep quality and better glycemic control highlight the importance of tailored evening nutrition strategies for older adults with diabetes.

Sharp pivot

Salvador Baroro, 64, saw his blood sugar reach 332 mg/dL in 2015, and it became a moment of reckoning in his life. A longtime bakery and grocery store owner, he ate what he wanted and thought little of long-term consequences.

After his diagnosis, Salvador made a sharp pivot. He closed his store, retired early, and committed to daily hikes on nearby mountain trails. In 2018, with encouragement from his doctor, he began drinking the diabetes-specific supplement in the morning and evening.

‘It helped keep me full and replaced the bad habits I used to reward myself with,’ Salvador said.

As a result, his blood sugar normalized to 105 mg/dL, and he shed nearly 60 kilograms in body weight. Beyond the numbers, Salvador found new structure, freedom, and mental clarity.

His case is a striking example of how combining regular physical activity with a diet incorporating diabetes-specific formula can help reshape not just health, but also quality of life.

Managing diabetes with nutrition

Edna, Ramon, and Salvador are living proof that life with diabetes does not have to mean giving up the things you love. Their journeys highlight how proper nutrition can be a powerful ally in managing diabetes effectively.

Science-backed solutions provide structured nutritional support that helps regulate blood sugar through slow glucose release, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced cardio-metabolic health – especially when paired with medication and regular physical activity.

The key is not restriction – it is balance. By incorporating diabetes-specific formulas into the daily routine, you can build healthier habits that are not only easier to maintain but also more sustainable in the long run. With the right knowledge, consistent daily actions, and supportive tools, small steps can lead to meaningful and lasting progress.

Minimum wage earners and domestic helpers or kasambahay in Central Luzon will receive an increase in their daily pay starting at the end of this month, according to the Department of Labor and Employment.

The DOLE-Central Luzon said that a wage order granting workers an increase of P50 to P80 daily would take effect on Oct. 30.

‘The adjustment will be implemented in two tranches, with the first tranche of P20 to P40 to be given upon effectivity of the wage order,’ the labor department said. ‘The second tranche of P30 to P40 will be given starting April 16 next year.’

Except for the province of Aurora, the wage adjustment will bring the minimum daily pay in Central Luzon to P570, P540 and P560 for workers in the non-agriculture, agriculture, and retail and service sectors, respectively.

Upon effectivity of the second tranche, the daily minimum wage rate will be P600 in the non-agriculture, P570 in the agriculture, and P590 in the retail and service sectors.

In Aurora, the first tranche of the wage adjustment will bring the minimum daily pay to P540 in the non-agriculture, P515 in the agriculture and P475 in retail and service sectors.

Domestic helpers in the region will receive an increase of P500, bringing their minimum monthly wage to P6,500.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported no untoward incident during the first day of the three-day strike launched by transport group Manibela yesterday.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police personnel were deployed in key areas to monitor the situation and assist commuters.

‘The strike did not affect commuters,’ Nartatez said.

Police vehicles were on standby for possible mobilization to help stranded passengers.

Members of Manibela began their protest along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City to denounce what they called ‘continuous harassment’ of drivers by the Department of Transportation’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation.