Category: Business Mirror

GRACE PAULINE QUINTANILLA blew a six-shot overnight lead in regulation and needed five extra holes to turn back Hong Kong-China’s Xizihan Wang to win the women’s individual title in the prestigious 78th playing of the Singapore Amateur Open championship at the Bukit course on Friday.

The 19-year-old Filipino birdied her sixth trip to the par-five 18th coming from a disadvantageous position playing her third shot, draining a 15-foot putt to finally seal the win which came the hard way after she closed out regulation with a two-over-par 73 that allowed the Chinese to tie at 281.

Wang shot a 67-tying Quintanilla’s first round effort for the low round of the week-and clearly had momentum going into sudden death, only for the Filipino to patiently bid her time and strike when she found the opening.

‘She overshot her approach (on the fifth playoff hole),’ Quintanilla said of Wang. ‘I knew then that I had to somewhat get it (my approach shot) close, even though I was coming off the rough.’

Quintanilla will return to action on Philippine soil in one of two upcoming National Golf Association of the Philippines events later this month, either in the PH Stroke Play Championship at Pradera Verde or the Match Play event at age-old Luisita.

‘One of those events,’ she said when asked of her next tournament. ‘And then it will be back to the US for me for school.’

Rolando Bregente and Jet Hernandez settled for a fourth place tie in the men’s division after closing 69s gave them 272 totals, five shots off champion Jonty Lunzon of Australia, who fired a 67 to beat countryman Harrison Gomez by a shot.

Gomez, who started the day in seventh spot, smoked the back nine with six of his seven birdies. He went on to fire a flawless 64 for 268.

Bregente, who held the solo lead after the opening round by shooting a 64 on Tuesday, and Hernandez, finished a shot out of the podium as Hong Kong-China’s Markus Zachary Lam shot a 70 to finish third just a stroke ahead of the duo from the Philippines.

Hernandez, the University of Denver mainstay in the United States, played his final three rounds at nine-under-par even after a double bogey-bogey stretch from the 11th hole which cost him dearly in the standings.

Bregente also had his misadventures, dropping shots on 15 and 17 after going bogey-free in his first 14 holes of the final round.

A morale-boosting win and a deflating but encouraging loss have convinced new coach Federico Rampazzo that the Vietnamese team is heading in the right direction.

Vietnam marched on to the semifinals of the SEA V Cup, breezing past unheralded Myanmar, 25-18, 25-23, 25-19, on Friday at the Candon City Arena.

It was a huge bounce-back win sealed in an hour and 20 minutes, after an exhausting two-hour four-set loss to Thailand, a team four spots below in the world rankings.

Rampazzo noted both results were crucial in the development of the Vietnamese squad, lauding the team led by Nguyen Ngoc Thuan and Pham Quoc Du for their smart decision-making in tough stretches.

‘A lot of situations they never see, because the match against Thailand was our first official -match. I’m really proud of what they’re trying to do,’ Rampazzo said.

Playing in its first official FIVB-sanctioned tournament since last season’s zonal meet and first with Rampazzo in charge, Vietnam showed encouraging signs as it adapts to the Italian tactician’s system.

‘Thailand is very solid and we tried to learn during the match itself. We focused more on trying to improve our technique, strategy. They played very good in my opinion, very satisfactory,’ Rampazzo said.

Vietnam is one of several nations that have tapped Italian volleyball specialists.

Alas Pilipinas brought in Angiolino Frigoni two years ago, just before the Philippines hosted the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Cup, where nine other nations were led by Italian coaches.

Rampazzo stressed that progress cannot be rushed and it applies to all young developing teams, pointing to Myanmar’s improvement from one match to the next as proof that teams are built through experience.

‘It’s a process, we need to be patient,’ Rampazzo said. ‘Like Myanmar, you saw it from yesterday and today, they have fewer errors.’

‘And all the young teams, for everybody it’s like this.’ Rampazzo appealed to his team’s supporters for patience as they mature.

‘I’m very proud, they’re really eager to learn. They keep learning and I believe we are on the right path.’

‘I hope that everybody seeing these matches, give time for the players to grow, and they will give great satisfaction to the nation.’

SEA V Cup crucial meet to climb world rankings

JUST like the Philippines, Vietnam is looking to stamp its mark in the Asian Games in Nagoya later this year and the SEA V Cup is one of the crucial stages for the teams in the region.

The zonal meet, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and the City of Candon headed by Mayor Eric D. Singson, offers all-important FIVB world ranking points.

Vietnam entered the Sea V Cup ranked 62nd, with Thailand 66th.

Indonesia heads the field at 44th, buoyed by the title triumph in the Asian Volleyball Confederation Men’s Cup just last month in India.

Alas Pilipinas entered the event ranked 90th and Cambodia 117th.

Thailand topped Group B with a 2-0 record, while Myanmar went 0-2 and will go to the classification match for fifth and sixth spots.

Thuan had 22 points on 17 attacks, four aces and a block, while Du delivered 13 points, all on attacks for Vietnam.

Kyaw Aung Myo was the only player who reached double-figure scores for Myanmar, delivering 13 points on 12 attacks and an ace.

Five suspects have been charged with robbery with homicide in connection with the killing of American marine biologist Dr. Kent Carpenter in Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

Four of the suspects were presented before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on Friday for inquest and regular filing of charges.

Police identified the suspects only by their aliases: M.O., the alleged gunman; J.F.; C.D.; E.L.; and John Doe, who remains at large.

Capt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, said M.O. and J.F. were brought before prosecutors during the morning inquest after their arrest by the Philippine National Police and members of the Special Investigation Task Group Carpenter.

‘The three other respondents-C.D., E.L. and John Doe-were included in the same complaint through regular filing after the 36-hour reglementary period had elapsed,’ Polinar said.

E.L., a resident of Barangay Ajong, Sibulan, surrendered to the village chief shortly before midnight on Thursday.

Meanwhile, authorities have launched a manhunt for John Doe, the lone remaining fugitive.

The suspects are accused in the fatal shooting of Carpenter, 73, who was killed inside his residence in Barangay Ajong on July 12. He sustained two gunshot wounds to the head.

Carpenter’s 34-year-old Filipino live-in partner survived. She alleged that she was sexually assaulted during the attack.

She identified the suspects and appeared before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office as the lone eyewitness to the killing.

Carpenter was internationally recognized for his pioneering work in marine biodiversity conservation.

His family is expected to arrive in Negros Oriental to make arrangements for the disposition of his remains.

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.

FACT-FINDING investigators of the Office of the Ombudsman are ‘very close’ to filing plunder charges against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez for his involvement in the multibillion-peso anomalous flood control projects of the government and other line items in the 2024 and 2025 national budgets.

At a press briefing, Remulla clarified that the result of the fact-finding investigation will still have to go through a preliminary investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman which may take not less than 60 days.

He said the preliminary investigation may reach beyond 60 days if there will be motions from parties involved that would have to be acted upon.

‘We’re very close to filing the plunder charges. But we still have to cross the Ts and dot some Is and probably put periods in sentences. That’s how close it is. So, I can’t deliberately talk about that.’ Remulla said.

‘The cases are just about ready for preliminary investigation,’ Remulla added.

Romualdez along with Senator Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero have been labeled by the Ombudsman as ‘master plunderers’ for using sophisticated methods to commit the crime of plunder in the flood control scam.

Asked if the case against Romualdez would still stand if the Ombudsman’s bid to discharge former Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan is denied by the Sandiganbayan, Remulla admitted that it would not be easy but expressed optimism that they would eventually manage to ‘thread the needle.’

‘We are up against people who have the best lawyers money can buy,’ Remulla said.

‘You’re talking about layers and layers of lawyers. People who will defend and go to any extent to defend their client,’ he added.

Last April 23, the Sandiganbayan’s Seventh Division issued a preliminary hold departure order against Romualdez, who is being investigated for plunder, direct bribery, violations of Section 3 ( a ) and 3 (b) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, indirect bribery, and money laundering.

The Court of Appeals (CA) has also ordered the freezing of Romualdez’s assets, including 25 bank accounts and insurance policies, based on a petition filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC).

It may be recalled that the Ombudsman had asked the Sandiganbayan to discharge Bonoan as an accused in the P573-million plunder and graft case filed against him, Senator Jinggoy Estrada and several others in connection with the flood control scandal.

Remulla said Bonoan’s testimony will be used to further strengthen the case being prepared against Romualdez.

The Sandiganbayan has yet to decide on the Ombudsman’s motion to discharge Bonoan as a state witness.

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) strongly condemned state-run China Daily’s publication of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated videos and editorial cartoons concerning the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, depicting Filipinos as monkeys.

‘As a Chinese state-run media outlet, China Daily’s conduct goes beyond legitimate political debate and employs blatantly demeaning, dehumanizing, and racist depictions of Filipinos,’ it said.

‘The Philippines has consistently rejected false narratives and distortions regarding the Arbitral Award and the Philippines lawful positions in the South China Sea. But we draw a firm line at the depiction of Filipinos as monkeys in the 10 July 2026 video, which is deeply offensive, distressing, and unacceptable,’ it added.

The DFA said disagreement over legal and political issues ‘does not justify resorting to disturbing imagery, which has no place in the civil public discourse of a responsible state.’

‘Such imagery and misinformation only serve to widen the distrust between the Philippines and China,’ it said.

‘The Philippines demands that the offensive material be taken down, calls for the immediate cessation of such irresponsible content, and urges China to uphold dignity, respect, and truth in public discourse,’ it added.

Legislators dassail ‘racist’ China video

LAWMAKERS on Friday denounced as ‘racist’ and ‘injurious and unacceptable’ the video by a Chinese state-controlled media outlet showing Filipinos as monkeys controlled by the United States and Japan, saying it shows the continuing arrogance by Manila’s neighbor notwithstanding its claim that it is ‘a reliable, constant partner.’

‘The racist depiction by China Daily, a Chinese state-controlled media outlet, of Filipinos as monkeys at the mercy of the United States and Japan simply shows that China’s arrogance knows no bounds. It further reveals how little they think of us and how highly they think of themselves. This is another act that reflects the mindset of an entitled bully,’ Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima of Mamamayang Liberal said in a statement.

Similar concern was aired by Sen. Francis Pangilinan over the video.

De Lima said the video ‘also shows China’s continued insecurity and frustration because our country refuses to yield in upholding our sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea. ‘Unlike during the previous administration, we do not kowtow to their caprices.’

The release of the AI-generated video followed a global commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Arbitral Ruling against China’s excessive claims in the South China Sea, for which the Philippines had filed a case in The Hague-based International Arbitral Court. At least 14 nations issued separate statements hailing the significance of the ruling to mark the anniversary, and praising Manila’s initiative to go to a global court to enforce the United Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos).

‘They can spread propaganda, create AI-generated videos, disseminate lies, and invent imaginary lines all they want, but they cannot erase the fact that the WPS is ours under our Constitution and international law,’ said de Lima, a former Justice secretary and senator.

‘Sa ginagawa nilang panggi-gipit, pagbabanta at mga kasinungalingan, sila ang mas nagiging kahiya-hiya at katawa-tawa sa mata ng buong mundo. Bilang bully, malamang na hindi sila titigil sa ganitong pang-aalipusta hangga’t hindi nila nakukuha ang kanilang gusto. Kaya patuloy lang dapat tayong pumalag at manindigan para ipagtanggol ang ating soberanya at pambansang dangal, de Lima added.

IN his statement, Pangilinan, meanwhile, called the AI-generated video of China Daily, which depicted Filipinos as monkeys, as unsuitable to any media organization, much lesas a ‘state-run media outlet that represents a country.’

The senator added, ‘It is saddening to think that this comes from China. An emerging global power in economy and technology,’ whose citizens have themselves also endured ‘discrimination and racism in other parts of the globe.’

Instead of promoting understanding and respect, it has chosen to ‘resort to a kind of propaganda that not only insults Filipinos, but also shatters China’s avowed intent to be a responsible and respectable leader in the international community,’ Pangilinan added.

He urged the People’s Republic of China ‘to immediately order China Daily to take down the video, issue a clear public apology, and hold responsible those who created and uploaded this video. Being a true leader in the international community is based on dignity, respect for others, and accountability – not ln spreading racist stereotypes that are billed as ‘information or commentary.’

If it wants to be seen as a responsible and trustworthy global power, China must start by ensuring its state media acts with respect and responsibility, not otherwise.’ With PNA

RCBC Wealth Management Group gathered clients in Metro Manila and Cebu for its 2026 Mid-Year Market Outlook, ‘Moving Markets, Building Legacies,’ a two-leg client event designed to help investors better understand today’s evolving market environment and the importance of long-term wealth planning.

Held on June 24 and 25, the sessions gathered market experts from RCBC Trust, TT International, and Schroders to share perspectives on local and global markets, emerging market opportunities, and the critical role of diversification in navigating uncertainty.

With shifting macro conditions and inflation eroding returns, industry experts advised investors to actively review and diversify portfolios, prioritizing long-term goals over short-term comfort.

‘This is where the guidance of a dedicated relationship manager becomes most valuable. They are there not just to explain market movements, but to translate these into a personalized strategy that keeps each client’s wealth on the right trajectory,’ RCBC Wealth Group Head, Jacqueline Wieneke, explained.

More than a market briefing, the event reflected RCBC Wealth’s commitment to staying close to clients through timely insights, meaningful conversations, and relationship-led advisory. As investors continue to face shifting interest rates, inflation concerns, geopolitical developments, and changing market cycles, RCBC Wealth emphasized the value of informed decision-making and regular portfolio discussions with trusted Relationship Managers and advisers.

Representing RCBC Trust, Ram Cervantes, Head of Investment Advisory, shared perspectives on the local investment landscape, including key developments in fixed income, equities, and the broader Philippine market environment.

JC Sambor, Head of Emerging Markets Debt at TT International, discussed the role of emerging markets in a diversified portfolio and how investors may look beyond traditional allocations when exploring long-term opportunities.

Keith Yu, Investment Director for Multi-Asset Product at Schroders, provided a global market perspective and highlighted how multi-asset approaches may help investors manage volatility across changing market conditions.

Throughout the discussions, speakers underscored the importance of looking beyond short-term market movements. Rather than focusing solely on immediate returns, clients were encouraged to consider how diversification, active portfolio review, and access to both local and global perspectives can support long-term financial goals.

RCBC Wealth helps clients translate market perspectives into decisions that are aligned with their long-term goals, whether they seek to preserve capital, diversify beyond traditional holdings, explore local and global opportunities, or prepare for the next generation. By combining investment advisory, trust solutions, estate planning, bancassurance and personalized relationship management, RCBC Wealth supports clients and their families in viewing wealth not merely as a portfolio of assets, but as a legacy to be thoughtfully managed, protected, and passed on with purpose.

‘Change is constant, and navigating it requires two things: thoughtful counsel and a steady hand. That is exactly what we aim to provide,’ said Wieneke. ‘Through every market cycle and every shift in the global economy, our commitment remains unchanged.’

Recognized as Private Wealth Bank of the Year by the 2026 Asian Banking and Finance Awards and Philippines’ Best for Next Gen by Euromoney, RCBC Wealth provides a comprehensive suite of wealth management solutions and expertise . It continues to strengthen its advisory approach by helping clients stay informed, review opportunities with care, and make decisions with confidence amid a changing investment landscape, while protecting and growing their wealth across generations. For more information on RCBC Wealth Management, visit https://www.rcbc.com/wealth-management.

HYUNDAI Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) reinforces its commitment to sustainable mobility with the debut of the New Staria Hybrid, expanding the brand’s electrified lineup in the local market. Conceived as a multi purpose vehicle that harmonizes modern design, hybrid efficiency, and refined practicality, the Staria Hybrid is offered in four variants-1.6T HEV Premium Plus, Premium, GLS, and GL-accommodating seven to eleven passengers. Priced from P1.999 million, it delivers a claimed 17.7 km/L fuel efficiency, combining smart hybrid performance with elevated comfort, advanced connectivity, and versatile space for contemporary Filipino families.

‘The Staria is one of the most iconic nameplates in our current lineup, completing our Hybrid range while carrying a legacy Filipinos trust. Building on the Starex’s role in family life, we are proud to be launching the Staria Hybrid, which brings a more connected, comfortable experience for modern and practical Filipino families,’ said HMPH president Jiho Son.

Futuristic and minimalist

WHILE the look is distinguished by its futuristic design, the exterior is a study in modern minimalism. The highlights include LED headlamps and daytime running lights, LED rear combination lamps, and power adjustable, folding side mirrors with integrated repeaters. Premium variants add heating and mirror mounted indicators, while the GL models retain bulb type lighting. Premium variants add heating and mirror mounted indicators, while the GL models use bulb type lighting. A rear spoiler, smart key with push start button, and electric parking brake complete the ensemble.

Dimension-wise, the vehicle measures 5,253 mm long, 1,997 mm wide, and 1,990 mm high, with a 3,273 mm wheelbase and 186 mm of ground clearance. Depending on the variant, the latest Staria rolls on 18 inch alloys wrapped in 255/55 R18 tires or 17 inch alloys with 215/65 R17 rubber, each complemented by a full size alloy spare.

Premium cabin

INSIDE, the Staria Hybrid presents a refined cabin anchored by a 12.3 inch TFT LCD digital instrument cluster on Premium variants and a 4.2 inch display on GLS and GL models.

A dual zone tilt and slide sunroof, power sliding doors, and automatic climate control enhance comfort, while manual sliding doors and air conditioning serve the entry models.

The infotainment system integrates a 12.3 inch display audio unit with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and voice recognition. Premium speakers-twelve on upper trims and six on others-deliver clear sound, supported by USB ports and a wireless charging pad. Upholstery options range from Nappa leather to leatherette and fabric, with power adjustable front seats, lumbar support, and height adjustment depending on variant.

The Premium version features second-row Captain seats, while rear seating configurations vary from power swiveling and sliding second row seats to 60:40 split folding or bench type third and fourth rows.

Hybrid power and precision

UNDER the hood lies a 1.6 liter turbo gasoline hybrid engine that delivers 177 hp and 265 N-m of torque, paired with a six speed automatic transmission. The chassis employs MacPherson struts up front and a multi link rear setup with advanced disc brakes on all corners. Steering is motor driven power type with manual tilt and telescopic adjustment, while paddle shifters add a touch of sportiness to the upper trims.

Safety and SmartSense

HYUNDAI SmartSense technology anchors the Staria’s safety suite, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane following and keeping assist, blind spot collision avoidance, forward collision warning, and parking distance sensors with front and rear cameras. Multiple airbags-driver, passenger, side, and curtain-combine with tire pressure monitoring, anti lock braking, electronic stability, and hill start assist for comprehensive protection.

Seamless connectivity anywhere with Bluelink

MARKING another technological first for Hyundai, the Staria Hybrid becomes the brand’s pioneer model equipped with Bluelink, its advanced Connected Car Service platform designed to keep drivers seamlessly linked to their vehicle. Through Hyundai Live Services, owners gain real time access to traffic and weather updates directly via the infotainment system-no smartphone tethering required. With data refreshed every two minutes, each journey is made safer, more informed, and remarkably efficient.

Beyond navigation, the Bluelink system introduces online voice recognition, allowing drivers to send and receive messages hands free while maintaining focus on the road. It also provides continuous updates on vehicle status, diagnostics, and health reports, while enabling remote control of climate settings, door locks, horn, and lights-ensuring effortless convenience even before stepping inside the vehicle.

Pricing and availability

THE New Hyundai Staria Hybrid enters the market with a broadened appeal and accessible pricing that underscores HMPH’s commitment to electrified mobility. Available in three exterior finishes-Creamy White, Abyss Black Pearl, and Shimmering Silver Metallic-the model extends its premium character inside with exclusive cabin palettes: Bordeaux Brown for the seven seater and Anthracite Brown for the nine seater variants.

The lineup begins with the 2.2 Diesel Cargo 6MT at P1,499 million, followed by the 1.6T HEV GL 6AT 9 Seater at P1,999 million, and the 11 Seater at P2,079 million. Mid range refinement comes through the 1.6T HEV GLS 6AT 9 Seater priced at P2,389 million, while the upper tier is represented by the 1.6T HEV Premium 6AT 9 Seater at P2,999 million, and the range topping 1.6T HEV Premium Plus 6AT 7 Seater at P3,199 million.

Altogether, Hyundai’s latest people mover merges practicality with elegance, hybrid innovation with human centered design-crafted for families and professionals who demand more than just space, but a statement of modern mobility.

Combo guard Gian Mamuyac joined fellow Ateneo players Tyler Tio and Kai Balunggay as Rain or Shine agreed in a trade on Thursday afternoon.

Mamuyac, known as a great slasher and shooter, found a home in Phoenix Super LPG after the trade was approved by the Philippine Basketball Association that acquired the Fuel Masters’ first round draft pick in Season 53.

‘It was so hard to sacrifice your draft pick since it will be part of your future rebuilding. But in the case of Mamuyac, it is exceptional. He is an immediate impact player that we need now,’ Phoenix Super LPG team governor Atty. Raymond Zorilla told BusinessMirror on Thursday.

Phoenix also got Rain or Shine’s second round pick in Season 53.

Mamuyac was fifth overall selection in the rookie draft in Season 47, turning the Rain or Shine franchise into a playoff contender particularly in the semifinals averaging 13.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game last conference.

Mamuyac’s contract is set to expire before the year ends, and no agreement happened that forced the Elastopainters to trade him to Phoenix which will try to negotiate a three-year deal.

He is set to play for Phoenix against Ginebra on Sunday.

While active shooter drills have become an integral part of campus safety, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara said they are also prioritizing the mental health of learners and safeguarding physical security.

Angara said that they recognize that drills alone do not solve the broader issue of school violence, but building a safer environment as the department is actively strengthening its protective reporting mechanisms for learners in distress.

‘Hindi sapat na masanay lang ang ating mga mag-aaral sa mga drill para sa kanilang pisikal na kaligtasan; kailangan din nating siguruhin ang kanilang mental at emosyonal na kalusugan, at tiyaking may malalapitan silang helpline at mga gabay sa bawat paaralan nang walang takot,’ Angara said.

This approach aligns with the nationwide, multi-agency effort directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen school safety measures.

DepEd spearheaded the launch of active attack safety drills in schools during the National Safe Schools Summit held at Manila Science High School on Wednesday.

These drills are part of a broader, proactive safety framework that includes a nationwide school safety audit, increased police patrols, and dedicated funding for CCTV systems, metal detectors, and school perimeter fence repairs.

DepEd has expanded its National Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline (LTCCH) to all regions, allowing learners to report without fear. Through a strategic partnership with the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH), the helpline will ensure that crucial psychological support services are more accessible to the youth.

Following the Civil Service Commission’s approval of qualification standards, DepEd is also fast-tracking the hiring of some 10,000 School Counselor Associates (SCAs). These new associates will provide direct, school-level support to address learners’ mental health concerns and emotional well-being.

Under the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE) or DepEd Order No. 6, s. 2026, campuses are also adopting localized anti-bullying measures and basic security protocols such as regular bag checks.

Learners are also being taught to identify the early warning signs of both online and offline abuse through social-emotional learning (SEL) integrated into the curriculum and classroom-based discussions centered on identifying red-flags of abuse, learner’s rights, anti-bullying programs, reporting and referral mechanisms, and promotion of help-seeking behavior.

Through collaboration with families, local governments, law enforcement agencies, and communities, DepEd remains fully committed to ensuring every school is a sanctuary where learners are safe, happy, and thriving.

DepEd-7, PNP eye active shooter drill protocols

The DepEd-7 is working on a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to develop protocols for active shooter drills in public schools, as the agency steps up efforts to improve campus safety while ensuring schools remain places of learning rather than militarized spaces.

DepEd-7 Legal Officer IV Atty. Leslie Joie Babatuan said the proposed agreement, which is still being finalized at the regional level, seeks to establish clear procedures for responding to active threats in schools following recent incidents that have raised concerns over campus security.

‘As to safety and security, we have initiated a MOA between DepEd and PNP. This is at the regional level. It is not yet final. But we are looking at sitting down with the PNP on coming up with protocols on active shooter drills,’ Babatuan said during a Hisgutan Ta! Media Forum on Thursday, July 16.

She noted that an active shooter drill was recently conducted in a school in Cebu City through the collaboration of the PNP, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) units, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and other agencies.

DepEd-7 is now studying how the education sector can support similar initiatives while remaining consistent with existing policies on law enforcement presence in schools.

‘DepEd also has its own policy with regard to the presence of police officers and the presence of firearms in schools. As much as possible, we do not want to normalize that. What we want is for schools to be ready, but at the same time, we would rather intensify prevention measures,’ Babatuan said.

She stressed that schools should continue to be regarded as ‘zones of peace’ where students can learn without fear.

‘The school is supposed to be a zone of peace. It’s an area where our kids learn, and we do not want them to feel that the school is militarized. But this is the reality of our times, so we also need to adjust and be responsive to present-day realities,’ she added.

Babatuan said the DepEd Central Office recently conducted a nationwide school safety audit to assess the readiness of schools and identify gaps in security infrastructure.

The audit examined whether schools have facilities such as closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, metal detectors, and security guards. She acknowledged that many schools still lack these resources.

‘Believe it or not, some schools don’t have that because that’s not our norm. We don’t want to normalize it,’ she said.

The assessment is intended to help DepEd prioritize the deployment of safety equipment and personnel where they are most needed.

Beyond physical security, Babatuan emphasized that the department continues to focus on preventive measures and learner welfare.

She said DepEd is strengthening guidance and mental health services, with the Central Office recently announcing plans to intensify the hiring of school counselor associates.

At the school level, mechanisms for learner protection are already in place through Child Protection Committees, guidance counselors, learner rights and protection focal persons, and learner formation officers.

‘The mechanisms and protocols are established. The handling, psychological first aid, psychosocial interventions, even the mental health assistance for the children is already established,’ Babatuan said.

She added that while school violence and active threats remain relatively uncommon, DepEd believes schools must be prepared for emergencies without compromising their role as safe learning environments.

‘We’d rather dwell on prevention than response,’ Babatuan said, underscoring the department’s goal of balancing preparedness with efforts to protect the well-being of learners.