Category: Business Mirror

SEVERAL relatives of the missing sabungeros or cockfighting enthusiasts on Friday filed their counter-affidavits before the Department of Justice (DOJ) denying the obstruction of justice complaint filed against them for allegedly accepting bribe money to stop pursuing their cases against fugitive businessman Charlie ‘Atong’ Ang.

Among those who filed a counter-affidavit was Eloisa Bohol, mother of missing sabungero Kiel Bohol.

She denied being paid to abandon their pursuit for justice, noting that the cases for kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping and serious illegal detention filed before the Regional Trial Court in Sta. Cruz, Laguna against businessman Ang and several others have yet to commence.

Bohol assured that they are determined to pursue the case.

‘That’s true, we were not paid. We are not withdrawing from the case. There is still no hearing yet because our case in Sta. Cruz was transferred to Quezon City. We will continue to fight for our case,’ Bohol said.

Ryan Bautista, brother of missing sabungero Michael Bautista, also denied the allegation.

‘We are here for the preliminary investigation of the obstruction of justice case to deny that we received bribe money,’ Bautista said.

In their counter-affidavits, Cristy Ladao and Jocelyn dela Cruz also denied that they were bribed by the camp of Ang in exchange for dropping their case against him.

Dela Cruz’s son, Johnver Francisco, is one of the missing sabungeros and was the live-in partner of Ladao.

Both Ladao and dela Cruz confirmed meeting with Ang’s lawyer Caroline Cruz, who is also a respondent in the obstruction of justice complaint, in March and April this year.

Ladao and dela Cruz said they sought the meeting to discuss their predicament and not to demand any amount in exchange for dropping the case.

They added that there were other relatives of the missing sabungeros during the meeting held last March, including Bohol and Ma. Theresa Japag, who is one of the complainants in the obstruction of justice complaint.

Meanwhile, in her counter affidavit, Cruz denied bribing relatives of the missing sabungeros in exchange of dropping their cases.

Cruz claimed she was wrongfully charged and that the allegations against her lacked legal basis.

Ang’s lawyer claimed she was a victim of ‘malicious and false accusations made by the complainants based on lies and twisted narration of facts.’

‘Attorney Carlo’s meetings with relatives of the victims happened because they asked for them. It is an undeniable fact,’ Cruz’s lawyer Isabella Sabio said.

‘To say that a payoff ensued on those encounters is not only preposterous but also a product of a sinful imagination, which must be legally proven by the complainants,’ she added.

Sabio added Cruz merely accommodated the relatives of the victims who initiated the meetings last March and April when the group went to her office in Mandaluyong.

‘My client does not deny giving financial aid to the victims’ families during those meetings, for their fare and food, as they all came a long way. She only obliged out of the goodness of her heart,’ she added.

Sabio pointed out that there were no documents, no agreements signed nor demands made by Cruz when she gave the financial aid to the victims’ families.

Ang has been in hiding following the issuance of arrest warrants against him by trial courts in Sta Cruz in Laguna, Lipa City in Batangas and San Pablo in Laguna for several counts of kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges in connection with the missing sabungeros.

Leading global AI devices provider HONOR Philippines officially unveiled the highly anticipated HONOR X7e in a vibrant launch event to celebrate the arrival of the brand’s newest value-packed smartphone. Available exclusively online, HONOR X7e was introduced at Php 14,999 but you can get it for as low as Php 9,999 on Shopee, Lazada, or TikTok Shop.

‘The HONOR X7e was designed for Filipinos who want dependable performance without stretching their budget,’ said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. ‘Today’s launch is more than introducing a new smartphone-it’s about empowering more users with technology that keeps up with their everyday lives.’

The event showcased the HONOR X7e’s impressive combination of style, durability, and everyday performance, reinforcing HONOR’s commitment to making innovative technology more accessible to Filipinos. Guests experienced the device firsthand through interactive zones highlighting its camera capabilities, long-lasting battery, immersive display, and smooth all-day performance.

All About Power

The biggest highlight of the HONOR X7e is its massive 7500mAh battery, allowing users to stream, game, browse, work, and stay connected longer on a single charge. Paired with 45W HONOR SuperCharge, users can quickly power back up and get back to what matters most.

The HONOR X7e also introduces the new Instant AI Button, providing one-touch access to intelligent features that simplify everyday tasks. Whether it’s boosting productivity, getting quick information, or unlocking AI-powered functions, smart assistance is always within reach.

Accidents happen-but the HONOR X7e is ready for them. Equipped with 5-Star SGS Premium Drop Protection and IP64 Water and Dust Resistance, it is engineered to withstand everyday drops, splashes, and dusty environments, giving users greater confidence wherever they go.

Don’t miss your chance to own the all-new HONOR X7e for as low as Php 9,999 on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop – and experience All-Day Power, Smarter AI, and Premium Durability-all in one smartphone.

ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used by Asia-Pacific businesses not just to automate customer service, but to personalize the online shopping experience, with customized recommendations emerging as the region’s leading commercial application of the technology, according to logistics company DHL.

Findings from the DHL eCommerce Trends Report 2026 showed that 80 percent of businesses surveyed across Australia, China, India, Malaysia and Thailand are already using AI in their e-commerce operations.

Among those adopting the technology, the two most common applications are providing personalized product recommendations to online shoppers and conducting product reviews or image comparisons.

The survey also found that digitally connected consumers and mature digital commerce ecosystems are helping position Asia-Pacific as an early adopter of AI-driven online retail.

‘As digital lifestyles continue to evolve across Asia Pacific, innovation in e-commerce will accelerate in ways we cannot fully predict today,’ DHL eCommerce chief executive officer Pablo Ciano said.

In addition, he said that shopper expectations will continue to rise, and a seamless, intuitive and personalized experience remains fundamental to engaging customers.

‘But the real opportunity lies in bridging any gaps, particularly around trust, convenience and choice for long-term loyalty,’ he added.

In terms of consumer adoption, around 40 percent of shoppers surveyed said they have already used AI-powered tools, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, during their online shopping journey, mainly for customer support or product recommendations.

Meanwhile, another 37 percent said they expect to use such tools in the future.

Furthermore, the report also pointed to growing demand for subscription-based shopping.

Most respondents said they already maintain at least one product subscription, while 35 percent reported having three or more. Discounted pricing and loyalty rewards were identified as the strongest incentives for subscribing.

Logistics-related subscriptions are likewise becoming more common. DHL found that 61 percent of Australian respondents subscribe to at least one delivery or returns program, followed by 52 percent in India, 47 percent in Malaysia, 42 percent in Thailand and 32 percent in China.

For payment preferences, DHL said that consumers continue to rely on credit and debit cards and digital wallets, although the use of Buy Now, Pay Later services, cryptocurrency and biometric authentication is increasing, particularly in China, India, Malaysia and Thailand, where mobile-first commerce continues to expand.

Businesses have responded by offering a wider range of digital payment options aimed at reducing checkout friction and improving conversion rates.

Trust remains a hurdle

EVEN with rising adoption, the survey found consumers remain cautious about allowing AI to make purchasing decisions independently.

Privacy concerns were cited by 62 percent of respondents, while half expressed concerns over the accuracy of AI-generated recommendations. Businesses reported similar reservations.

Still, DHL said companies expect AI use to continue expanding over the next five years, particularly in forecasting demand, enabling virtual product try-ons and detecting fraud.

Interest in logistics subscriptions is also expected to grow. One in two consumers surveyed said they would consider subscribing to delivery and returns services within the next five years.

In response, 71 percent of Asia-Pacific businesses said they already offer subscription-based delivery and returns programs, while another 21 percent plan to introduce them over the same period.

The DHL eCommerce Trends Report 2026 surveyed 29,000 consumers and 5,800 businesses across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa.

The recent violent incidents in schools, including the Tacloban shooting, coincided with the airing of Netflix K-drama series ‘Teach You a Lesson’ Episode 6 titled ‘Lock ‘Em Up.’

‘Teach You a Lesson’ is based on the webtoon series ‘Get Schooled’ that follows an inspector from the Educational Rights Protection Bureau (ERPB) who is authorized by the government to use physical intervention and unconventional methods to discipline delinquent students and reform the educational system. It stars Kim Mu-yeol (as Na Hwa-Jin), Lee Sung-min, Jin Ki-joo (as Im Han-Rim), and Pyo Ji-hoon.

The episode centers on a group of four juvenile delinquents who believe they are completely untouchable and above the law due to their age status.

The story shifts gears when the ERPB takes a direct interest in the group’s escalating ‘extracurricular’ crimes. The ERPB intervenes to serve these lawbreakers a brutal, unyielding reality check.

The series explicitly tackles systemic gaps in the juvenile justice system where underage offenders exploit lenient laws to commit serious crimes without fear of real consequence.

On June 22, 2026, at around 9:00 a.m., a school shooting occurred at San Jose National High School in Tacloban where three students were killed and 20 others were injured. Two suspects, aged 14 and 15, were later arrested.

It has renewed debate around the prosecution of juvenile offenders, as well as internet safety of children in the Philippines.

Under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act ( RA 9344), minors are treated as ‘Children in Conflict with the Law’ (CICL) rather than common criminals.

Offenders 15 years old and under are exempt from criminal liability. Instead of jail, they are placed under mandatory community-based intervention or rehabilitation programs.

Offenders 16 to 17 years old (and minors 15 and below who commit severe crimes) are exempt from criminal liability unless it is proven by the prosecution that they acted with ‘discernment.’

There is the wrong impression that exemption from criminal liability means that the child faces no consequences and simply walks free.

The children are still accountable since they are removed from ordinary criminal prosecution and placed under intervention or rehabilitation programs designed to address their behavior and circumstances.

They are still under State supervision, and in serious cases still deprived of liberty in a youth care facility.

In CICL XXX vs. People of the Philippines (GR 238798, March 14, 2023), the Supreme Court pointed out that there is a different standard in determining a minor’s culpability for crimes, hence the need for guidelines to streamline the discernment determination process for crimes involving CICL.

The SC defined ‘discernment’ as the capacity of the child at the time of the commission of the offense to understand the difference between right and wrong and the consequences of the wrongful act.

The SC underscored that the determination shall take into account the ability of a child to understand the moral and psychological components of criminal responsibility and the consequences of the wrongful act; and whether a child can be held responsible for essentially antisocial behavior. The task of ascertaining discernment is done preliminarily by a social worker, and finally by the court.

The SC also noted that there is no presumption that a minor acts with discernment. The prosecution must specifically prove as a separate circumstance that the alleged crime was committed with discernment.

For a minor at such an age to be criminally liable, the prosecution is burdened to prove beyond reasonable doubt, by direct or circumstantial evidence, that he or she acted with discernment.

In determining discernment, courts shall consider the totality of facts and circumstances in each case.

The late Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago had proposed a real-life version of the ERPB in the Philippines in 2014 called Senate Bill No. 2329 or the ‘Student Disciplinary Fairness Act.’

It aimed to establish a Committee on School Discipline Policy under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council. It sought to create early warning systems, strengthen intervention, and provide counseling to stop minor behavioral issues from becoming criminal cases.

Although SB 2329 was not passed into law, its core goals focused on keeping young learners in a safe, constructive environment rather than immediately resorting to harsh punishments like arrests or expulsions.

The bill focused on catching behavioral problems early. Instead of automatically suspending or expelling a student for issues like bullying or threats, the goal was to provide counseling and support to fix the root cause of the behavior.

Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 0908-8665786.

DoubleDragon Corporation (DD) has officially completed the primary building structure and topmost floor of Hotel101-Libis, marking a major milestone with its structural topping-off ceremony.

Featuring 702 uniform rooms, the upcoming property is set to become the largest hotel in the entire city of Quezon City. Strategically located inside the bustling Bridgetowne estate developed by Robinsons Land, Hotel101-Libis is situated just a few steps from the Robinsons Opus Mall, offering prime accessibility and convenience for both business and leisure travelers.

The topping-off of the Libis property represents a vital piece of the broader Hotel101 Global Vision, which targets a footprint of 50,000 uniform rooms in the Philippines and a long-term goal of 1 million uniform rooms worldwide.

By leveraging its highly unique, asset-light, and standardized ‘prop-tech’ hospitality model, DoubleDragon continues to scale the brand rapidly both locally and internationally.

The progress at Hotel101-Libis coincides with DoubleDragon’s most aggressive expansion period to date. The year 2026 marks the highest number of room openings in a single year for the company, with 2,229 additional operational rooms slated to come online across key global and local hubs: Madrid, Spain’s 680 rooms (already open and operational); Davao, Philippines’s 519 rooms (scheduled to open this month on July 30, 2026), Cebu, Philippines’s 548 rooms (upcoming); and Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan’s 482 rooms (scheduled to open December 2026).

With the structural framework of Hotel101-Libis now complete, DoubleDragon continues to cement its position as a powerhouse in the hospitality sector, driving substantial recurring revenue streams while establishing a highly visible, proud Filipino brand on the global stage.

The 62nd edition of the Binibining Pilipinas pageant will hold its Grand Coronation Night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, July 18, 2026.

Iconic beauty queens across different pageants will serve as hosts: Miss Universe 1999 First Runner-up Miriam Quiabao, Miss Grand International 2016 First Runner-up Nicole Cordoves, Miss Universe 2014 Top 10 MJ Lastimosa, and Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray

What makes the vent more exciting is the glamorous presence of reigning Miss International Catalina Rodriguez and The Miss Globe Chayathanus Saradatta, with special performances by PPop Group Alamat, Asia’s Prince of Drama Jericho Rosales, and matinee idol Kyle Echarr

Katrina Anne Johnson of Davao Province, who is yet to compete at Miss International 2026, and Annabelle Mae McDonnell of Iligan, The Miss Globe 2025 finalist, will crown their successors at the end of the evening.

With the withdrawal of heavy favorite Ivy Padilla of Misamis Oriental, nine Binibinis remain as strong contenders for the crowns. Based on preliminary performances, previous pageant experience and personal biases, the standouts are the following:

Binibini 2 Cagayan de Oro City’s Gwyneth Jemimah Bombeo Chan

The City of Golden Friendship’s Diamond Queen wishes to follow the high-heeled footsteps of fellow Miss Cagayan de Oro alumni such as Lilia Eloisa Marfori Andanar (Binibining Pilipinas International 1989) and Cinderella Faye Elle Obeñita (Miss Intercontinental 2021).

She said of her national costume, showcased on July 2, called ‘The Golden Oro’ designed by Jie-jie Aisa: ‘Inspired by the mythical Oro Fish (Kugtong) said to dwell in the Cagayan de Oro River, it embodies the soul of our city. More than a legend, the Golden Oro symbolizes prosperity, resilience, and hope-reminding us that even through changing tides, Cagayan de Oro continues to shine with strength and boundless potential.’

Binibini 12 Baguio’s Gwendoline Meliz Soriano

An actress, Gwendoline withdrew from Binibining Pilipinas 2022 and placed in the Top 12 at Miss Universe Philippines 2025. She said of her prelims gown, presented on June 22, designed by Michael Miguel: ‘Inspired by Baguio’s ever-blooming flowers, I selected a blush-peach mermaid gown with cascading luminous petals. The design symbolizes resilience, growth, and the enduring elegance of the City of Pines.’

Binibini 13 Tarlac’s Sasha-Juli Belle Lacuna

Sasha finished at Top 24 at Miss Universe Philippines 2025. After the closed-door interview on July 6, where they went bare-faced, she posted:

‘We’re so used to seeing beauty queens in full glam, polished makeup, and perfectly curated photos that it’s easy to forget that behind all of that, we’re simply human.

‘As someone with a skin condition called Nevus of Ota, showing up without makeup wasn’t something I feared. My parents raised me to embrace it, to be proud of it, and to never see it as something that needed to be hidden.

‘Beyond the crowns, lashes, and glam shoots, we all have our own stories, imperfections, and things that make us unique. And I think there’s something truly beautiful about realizing that we’re all far more alike than we sometimes believe.

‘Today, I felt proud to be seen as just me.’

Binibini 17 San Jose, Occidental Mindoro’s Ain Niqyla Abad

Ain placed Top 24 at Miss Universe Philippines 2025. She has said of her quest for a crown:

‘Grace, purpose, and the unwavering pride of a Filipina.

‘This journey has been filled with hard work, faith, and the incredible support of everyone who believed in me.

‘San Jose, Occidental Mindoro I can’t wait to hear you shout my name this Saturday! Your love and support mean everything as I take one more step toward this dream.’

Binibini 18 Pampanga’s Anne Klein Castro

Anne Klein was Mutya ng Pilipinas-World Top Model 2024. She has spoken out about the controversial dump site that is impacting the Aeta community in Sitio Tibag in Subic, Zambales:

‘When leaders aren’t held accountable, harmful decisions continue. But the moment they’re called out, the response suddenly becomes, ‘Hindi namin alam na may naninirahan doon.’ Even if no community had been living there, that would never justify turning a protected area into a dumpsite. Our environment is not disposable, and protecting it should never depend on whether people are visibly living there.

‘Environmental protection and respect for Indigenous communities should always go hand in hand. Both deserve better.’

Binibini 19 Bacolod City’s Tracy Mae Sunio

Tracy was a Top 15 semifinalist at Binibining Pilipinas 2024. Of her national costume designed by Jude Chael, she stated:

‘It celebrates the endangered hornbill, a vital symbol of forest regeneration.

‘We stayed true to its natural beauty while adding a touch of my childhood MassKara Festival costume. I’m grateful to have been part of bringing this vision to life.’

Binibini 25 Cauayan, Isabela’s Jarina Kumari Sandhu

The writer was one of the preliminary judges at the Queen Isabela 2025 pageant, which the Indian beauty Jarina eventually won with her sparkling personality. She then went on to place Top 24 at Miss Universe Philippines 2025.

When she became a Binibini, she posted: ‘A new chapter begins. As I take my first step in Binibining Pilipinas, I carry not just my dreams, but the voices of women who deserve to be seen, heard, and empowered.’

Binibini 29 Dumaguete’s Julianne Raine Antonio

The damsel from Dumaguete said of her national costume:

‘Grateful to have worn my national costume, brought to life by the amazing Tito June Samson Pugat. Inspired by the City of Gentle People and the calm, graceful beauty of the ocean, every detail reflects the heart and spirit of Dumaguete.’

Binibini 31 Iloilo’s Patricia Lynn Beerda

Patricia Lynn was first runner-up at Miss Teen Philippines 2019. This batch has since taken on a mythical status. The winner was Nikki de Moura, later crowned Miss Grand Philippines 2023; the second runner-up was Nicole Borromeo, later crowned Miss International 2023 third runner-up; non-finalists were Ivy Padilla, later winning Miss Fit Philippines 2025 first runner-up, and Myrna Esguerra, the Miss International 2025 fourth runner-up.

In a video, the Dutch-Ilongga explained her advocacy called Beyond Margins:

‘It is to educate, elevate, and empower. It is rooted in my background as a youth leader, a law graduate, and an advocate, and focuses specifically on the marginalized communities. I have been a volunteer with different organizations and as a law student worked on researching on important topics, and I believe it is so important to highlight societal issues and truly make a difference and a future to those that need it.’

THE number of Filipino children engaged in child labor inched up slightly in 2025 from a year earlier, according to preliminary data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The PSA estimated that there were 513,650 child laborers nationwide last year, up from 509,160 in 2024. They accounted for 1.8 percent of all children aged 5 to 17, compared with 1.6 percent a year earlier.

Child labor refers to work that is mentally, physically, socially or morally harmful to children and interferes with their education by preventing them from attending school, forcing them to leave school early, or requiring them to combine schooling with long or heavy work.

Under the PSA’s definition, child labor includes hazardous work that could endanger a child’s health, safety, or moral well-being. It also covers children younger than 15 who work beyond legally permitted hours, as well as those aged 15 to 17 who exceed the maximum working hours or are employed during prohibited nighttime hours.

Agriculture continued to account for the largest share of child laborers in 2025, employing 336,000 children or 65.5 percent of the total, up from 328,000 a year earlier.

The industry sector also posted an increase to 45,000 child laborers from 34,000, while the number in services declined to 133,000 from 148,000.

Older children made up the bulk of child laborers, with 413,000 or 80.5 percent aged 15 to 17, while the remaining 100,000 were between 5 and 14 years old.

Boys accounted for nearly three-fourths of all child laborers at 373,650, compared with 140,000 girls.

Meanwhile, the number of working children-defined as all children aged 5 to 17 engaged in any economic activity, including both permissible work and child labor-inched up to 868,540 in 2025 from 861,450 a year earlier.

Nearly half of all working children were employed in the services sector, which accounted for 423,000 or 48.7 percent of the total.

Agriculture followed with 358,000 children or 41.2 percent, while 87,000 or 10.1 percent worked in industry.

Working children accounted for 3.1 percent of the country’s population aged 5 to 17 in 2025, up from 2.7 percent in 2024, indicating that about three in every 100 Filipino children were engaged in economic activity during the year.

Some destinations are best experienced with a plan. Others are best discovered one moment at a time.

In Bohol in the central Philippines, travel unfolds at a gentler pace-whether that means lingering on an empty beach, following a winding river through mangrove forests, or hiking into the hills to watch the sunrise over rolling landscapes. Beyond its famous Chocolate Hills and postcard-perfect islands, Bohol, the Philippines’ first and only UNESCO Global Geopark, rewards travelers with quieter experiences that reveal the island’s natural beauty, culture, and sense of place.

For those looking to slow down and reconnect with nature, here are five places worth exploring.

Quinale Beach, Anda: A Stretch of Sand All to Yourself

On Bohol’s eastern coast, Quinale Beach offers a different kind of tropical escape. Its powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and wide shoreline create a sense of space rarely found in more crowded destinations.

Early mornings are especially rewarding, with gentle waves and long stretches of beach that feel almost untouched. Whether you’re taking a quiet walk, enjoying a swim, or simply watching the horizon change colors, Quinale invites travelers to slow down and embrace the island’s relaxed rhythm. Cambuhat River and Oyster Farm: Discover Community Life Along the Water

In the municipality of Buenavista, the Cambuhat River offers an opportunity to experience Bohol through the lives of the people who call it home.

Guided paddle boat tours take visitors through mangrove-lined waterways where local families have cultivated oysters for generations. Along the way, travelers gain insight into traditional livelihoods and the close relationship between the community and the surrounding ecosystem.

It’s a journey that combines nature, culture, and meaningful local interaction-an increasingly sought-after experience among travelers looking for deeper connections with the places they visit.

Kinahugan Falls: A Hidden Retreat in the Forest

For travelers willing to venture inland, Kinahugan Falls in Jagna provides a refreshing escape surrounded by lush greenery.

The journey itself is part of the experience, passing through rural villages and forested landscapes before arriving at the cascading falls and natural pools below. The sound of rushing water and the cool forest air create a peaceful setting that feels far removed from busy tourist routes.

Alicia Panoramic Park: Above the Clouds

Known locally as one of Bohol’s most scenic viewpoints, Alicia Panoramic Park offers sweeping views of rolling limestone hills that stretch across the island’s interior.

Early morning hikes often reward visitors with mist-covered landscapes and golden sunlight illuminating the hills. The park has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers while retaining a sense of tranquility that rewards those who take time to explore.

Combento Cave Pool: Nature’s Hidden Sanctuary

Back in Anda, Combento Cave Pool presents one of Bohol’s most unique natural attractions.

Nestled within a limestone cave system, the pool’s cool freshwater and filtered sunlight create an atmosphere that feels both serene and otherworldly. Visitors can take a refreshing dip while admiring the rock formations sculpted over centuries by nature.

It is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the sense of discovery that makes exploring Bohol so rewarding.

Your Journey Begins at Bohol-Panglao International Airport

Getting to Bohol has never been easier. Travelers can fly directly to Bohol-Panglao International Airport from Manila, while international visitors from South Korea can access the island through direct flights from Incheon, providing convenient access to one of the Philippines’ most celebrated island destinations.

Operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation, Bohol-Panglao International Airport serves as the island’s main gateway. Recognized as the Philippines’ first eco-airport, its open-air architecture, natural ventilation systems, and environmentally conscious design offer travelers a welcoming first impression of Bohol.

From the airport, many of the island’s beaches, inland attractions, cultural sites, and nature experiences are within easy reach, making it an ideal starting point for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual itinerary.

A Different Way to Experience Bohol

Travel in Bohol is not about rushing from one attraction to the next. It is about creating space for unexpected discoveries-whether that means meeting local communities, exploring hidden waterfalls, watching the sunrise from a hilltop, or simply finding a quiet stretch of coastline to enjoy.

For travelers seeking a destination that balances adventure, nature, and authenticity, Bohol offers countless opportunities to explore at their own pace while discovering a side of the Philippines that often goes unnoticed.

Pag-IBIG Fund home loan releases posted double digit growth in the first half of 2026, with socialized housing financing more than doubling under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s flagship Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program (Expanded 4PH). Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling said the strong results reflect the government’s continuing efforts to make affordable home financing more accessible, particularly to minimum wage and low income Filipinos.

Aliling, who also leads the 11 member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees, reported that from January to June, socialized home loans extended to minimum wage and low income members reached ?6.70 billion, up 118% from a year ago, while the number of units financed climbed 132% to 6,601. Socialized housing loans now account for 15% of total units financed by the agency, underscoring the growing share of low income borrowers in Pag-IBIG’s overall lending.

This growth helped drive the agency’s total home loan releases to ?69.19 billion for 43,051 units in the first half of the year, up 15% in amount and 9% in units financed compared with the ?60.25 billion released in the same period last year.

‘Our housing figures for the first half of the year reflect not just growth, but growth that reaches those who need it most. The sharp rise in socialized housing loans shows that our efforts to prioritize the unserved and underserved sectors, particularly minimum wage and low income Filipinos, are gaining real traction. This is very much in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to provide our fellow Filipinos with better and dignified lives through the Expanded 4PH,’ Aliling said.

Officials said the strong first half performance underscores the continuing demand for affordable home financing. To further improve affordability and sustain this momentum, Pag-IBIG Fund continues to offer its subsidized 3 percent rate for eligible socialized housing borrowers, while promotional rates of 4.5 percent and 5.75 percent have been made available for low cost, medium cost and open market housing loans. The agency has also increased its maximum housing loan amount to ?10 million, broadening the range of housing options available to members.

Aliling said the strong first half performance reflects the results of the collaborative approach pursued by government and the private sector and provides a solid foundation to bring homeownership within reach of more Filipino families.

‘We have shown that government can act by offering more affordable loans, a higher loan ceiling and faster processing. We now look forward to working even more closely with the private sector, especially our developer partners, to build more quality homes at prices our members can afford. By joining hands, we can help more Filipino families turn their dream of owning a home into reality,’ he said.

Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta said the gains in socialized housing show that the Expanded 4PH and Pag-IBIG Fund’s subsidized 3 percent rate are already helping more minimum wage and low income members become homeowners.

‘Through the Expanded 4PH and our subsidized 3 percent rate, we have helped thousands more minimum wage and low income members afford homes of their own, with monthly payments that can be lower than what their families would otherwise spend on rent. This means more Filipino families are no longer just dreaming of a home, but are now able to call one their own,’ Acosta said.

‘To sustain this momentum, we are further widening access to affordable financing through our promotional rates of 4.5 percent and 5.75 percent for low cost, medium cost and open market housing, our higher ?10 million loan ceiling, and our direct investments in housing projects to help bring more affordable units to market. By working closely with our partners in the private sector, we can connect more members with homes that are within their reach. Together, we can help realize President Marcos’ vision of enabling more Filipino families to own decent and affordable homes,’ Acosta added.

From daily office travel to weekend getaways, the compact segment of the VinFast VF 3 shifts not only how Filipinos approach vehicle ownership, but also proves how versatile the EV is to cater to different lifestyles.

The VinFast VF 3 has seen strong reception since its launch, reflecting growing interest in the brand’s EV lineup. In Vietnam, from January through May 2026, the VF 3 recorded cumulative sales of 20,231 units. In Indonesia, it accounted for more than 70% of VinFast’s sales during the first five months of 2026, with 1,093 units delivered. In the Philippines, it has also become one of VinFast’s best-selling models and continues to attract strong consumer interest, topping AutoDeal’s list of the country’s most inquired about vehicles in early April after leading the rankings in March.

Beyond the initial novelty that it brings to the table, the VF 3 also holds the capability of being a handy utility across various consumer segments in the Philippines.

So, who is the VF 3 actually built for? Here’s a breakdown of the types of Filipino drivers who are the best fit behind the wheel.

1. For the Daily Commuter

Like most EVs, one of the VF 3’s biggest advantages over a gasoline-powered vehicle is its lower running costs, which is a primary consideration for anyone doing a daily back-and-forth commute in Philippine traffic.

The VF 3’s NEDC-rated range of 215 km easily covers a typical week of city driving, with a full charge of the car only costing P500 per week or around P2,000 a month for regular users. In comparison, a VF 3 user can save around P5,000 monthly, as a gasoline-powered car chips away P7,000 from your wallet just for fuel expenses.

2. For the Small Business Owner

At first glance, the VF 3 may tend to look small on the outside; step inside, however, and the car’s cabin tells a whole different story.

The cabin is roomy, with a taller height and driving position largely thanks to the VF 3’s 191 mm ground clearance, a spec which can come in handy for small business owners who consistently load supplies into the car or overcome uneven sidewalks.

Measuring just 3,190 mm long, its compact footprint also made it easy to navigate the traffic and fit into tight parking spaces, a spec designed to make deliveries and errands a lot more comfortable and lighter.

3. For the Adventurer

Many people in the automotive industry assume that a small and compact EV like the VF 3 would be happiest in sticking to city streets.

Instead, VF 3 owners have taken the car for numerous runs outside the Metro, going on regular trips to Laguna, frequent drives along the Skyway, and longer adventures across the countless, beautiful provinces the Philippines offers. Take round-trip journeys from Santa Rosa to Angeles, Pampanga, and drive to Tagaytay, for example, where owners only needed to charge the VF 3 twice and spend under P600 in electricity.

The VF 3 also holds the power to conquer uphill roads without breaking a sweat, with a top speed of 104 km/h making it more than enough to drive around the city and for highway cruising.

4. For the First-Time EV Buyer

For the countless people who have eyed to make the switch to EV, the biggest hesitation was not the VF 3 itself but whether the Philippines’ charging infrastructure was ready.

A quick browse on the internet leaves a potential buyer often reassured, with charging stations across the Philippines steadily expanding and with VinFast providing complimentary charging at V-Green stations through March 2029 to make the switch fully in favor of the first-time EV buyer.

Beyond charging, owning a VF 3 tends to be worry-free, as several specs such as the auto-luck function, the reverse camera, and a whole set of customization options are available to owners in order to tailor the car to their daily lifestyle.

Ultimately, the value of the VF 3 comes down to the purpose for getting behind the wheel. For the right buyer, it’s a car that has plenty to offer. Visit your nearest VinFast showroom today and know more about what VinFast model suits your lifestyle best.