Category: Business Mirror

THE country’s palay output in the third quarter rose to 3.75 million metric tons (MMT) on the back of expanded harvest area, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported.

Data gathered by the PSA indicate that palay output in July to September increased by 12.6 percent from the 3.33 MMT posted in the same period last year.

The production of irrigated farms grew by 7.15 percent, reaching 2.79 MMT from the previous year’s 2.6 MMT.

Rainfed farms produced 958,322 metric tons (MT), 32.17 percent higher than the 725,064 MT recorded in 2024.

In addition, PSA data indicated the expansion in area harvested to 916,772 hectares buoyed the production during the lean months.

The area harvested increased by 15.7 percent from 792,221 hectares in the same period last year.

Within target

THE country has lost nearly 480,000 MT of palay supply so far this year after weather-related shocks, particularly typhoons, ravaged plantations.

Since January, the local rice sector has incurred 479,813 MT of palay losses as of October 22, based on the latest damage reports of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The latest figures, however, were yet to breach the average annual palay output losses ranging from 500,000 MT to 600,000 MT, according to agriculture officials.

‘If you look at these losses incurred by the rice industry, it’s a mix of both partially and totally damaged crops,’ DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa had told the BusinessMirror.

‘The partially damaged areas have a chance of recovery, meaning some of them can be harvested while others cannot.’

As such, the DA official assured the industry that palay output this year would not dip below the 2024 level, when it reached 19.09 MMT, the lowest in four years.

De Mesa also said the agency remains optimistic that the country could reach its revised target of 20.3 MMT palay output in 2025, citing ‘improvements’ in the third quarter harvest.

Scale back

THE department had scaled back its palay output forecast this year to 20.3 MMT owing to torrential downpours, which is lower than its initial projection of 20.45 MMT.

It added that erratic weather patterns could further lower expected paddy rice output in 2025 to as low as 20.09 MMT. If realized, the projected range would still be higher than the record 20.06 MMT in 2023.

In the first semester of the year, the country’s palay harvest hit an all-time high of 9.077 MMT, indicating a 6.41 percent growth from the 8.53 MMT posted in the same period last year.

The last time unmilled rice production breached the 9-MMT mark in the first half of the year was in 2023, when it reached 9.026 MMT.

Historically, the second half of the year accounts for over 55 percent of total rice production.

These accomplishments lay a solid track record across public safety, education, livelihood, and cultural development-but this is just the start of the administration’s public service mission.

For a city leader, taking the helm is not a simple change in office, but a profound responsibility that indicates the direction-and ultimately the future-of every constituent. This is the critical challenge now assumed by Hon. Angelo B. Alonte.

On October 8, 2025, Mayor Alonte, the 29th Mayor of the city, officially celebrated his first 100 days in office as the Chief Executive of Biñan, Laguna.

In his State of the City Address, Mayor Alonte reflected on his meaningful journey thus far, stating, ‘One hundred days filled with hope, with dreams, and with the promise that Biñan will continue to be a city of excellence and unity.’

Truly encapsulating this, the City of Biñan introduced a series of activities to recognize Mayor Alonte’s successful strides in more than three months of his new position.

A symbolic day

The City Government strongly focused on social welfare and infrastructure development during Mayor Alonte’s first 100 days in office. A major highlight was the extensive distribution of social aid programs, including the provision of the Local Social Pension, popularly known as the ‘Pension ni Lolo at Lola,’ which benefits over 29,000 senior citizens across the city. Beneficiaries receive a total monthly pension of P500, which is distributed quarterly.

Further expanding its commitment to vulnerable sectors, the local government has also launched the Subsidy Allowance program, which is set to assist 1,200 registered Solo Parents in Biñan with a P4,000 subsidy from the LGU for the months of May to August.

These welfare initiatives were celebrated with a Thanksgiving Mass for the blessing of new facilities and equipment, including two new ambulance units, one new garbage collection truck, and two new e-tricycles. Additionally, the newly established tatakGEL Care Center, the Mayor’s Office, and the Gender and Development (GAD)/Kalinga Offices were also blessed.

These newly blessed vehicles and facilities will serve as a bridge to bring services closer to every Biñanense, especially those who need them immediately.

Extending this commitment to long-term community development, Mayor Alonte also led the groundbreaking ceremonies for several socialized housing projects, including the Molave Townhomes and Acacia Estate Homes to provide safe, quality, and conducive homes to every Biñanense family.

Meanwhile, a ceremonial Koi Releasing event also took place at the Biñan People’s Park. This event served as a powerful symbolic gesture, representing the city’s continuous growth, hope, prosperity, and ongoing transformation.

Public safety, peace, and order

Mayor Alonte acknowledged that the initial three months of his service were far from easy, as the city was immediately faced with various problems.

‘We were immediately challenged by nature. Strong storms, floods, and calamities tested our resilience,’ Mayor Alonte said.

However, it was precisely in these most difficult times that Mayor Alonte witnessed the true strength and resilience of the Biñanenses to rise above any adversity.

To ensure preparedness and coordinate an effective response to typhoons and other calamities, the City Government of Biñan, through its City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), has officially adopted and now utilizes the Incident Command System (ICS) as its standard on-scene management concept for all types of emergencies and disasters.

‘In the face of typhoons and calamities, our Incident Command System was activated, and relief operations were delivered to the affected barangays. Many groups and volunteers partnered with us in teaching preparedness and discipline,’ Mayor Alonte highlighted.

The standardized ICS structure is immediately activated during emergencies. An Incident Commander (IC) leads the overall management and response to the crisis, including setting objectives, strategies, and priorities for the command function.

Beyond critical disaster response, the city’s comprehensive focus extends to broader public order initiatives. ‘First and foremost, we ensured the safety of our citizens. We fixed the flow of traffic and further widened the main roads,’ Mayor Alonte added, emphasizing that ensuring public safety starts with efficient logistics and flow.

These community-focused efforts also cover several other sectors of local safety and security. The City Government has maintained a strong commitment to controlling stray animals, providing necessary assistance to household pets, providing consistent training for the barangay tanod (village security guards), and sustaining the fight against illegal drugs through the Balay Silangan rehabilitation program.

This holistic commitment to community and service-oriented policing is why Biñan and Mayor Alonte were deservedly recognized as the Outstanding Local Chief Executive in the entire CALABARZON region by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).

Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action

The City of Biñan has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action, earning both national recognition and significant local results.

‘When it comes to the environment, we were recognized as a Platinum Awardee in the LGU Compliance Assessment by the DILG Laguna, and we were given an award at the Environmental Summit for our campaign against plastic pollution,’ proudly shared.

This prestigious Platinum LGU Compliance Assessment award from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and recognition by the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) underscore Biñan’s dedication to reduce pollution.

With one of the city’s technical solutions to the plastic crisis, the Expanded Centralized Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Barangay Timbao, Biñan has successfully diverted 92 tons of plastic waste, preventing it from damaging the environment.

As Mayor Alonte added: ‘We also continue our clean-up drives, tree planting, and support for our local fisherfolk.’

These ongoing initiatives, including the clean-up, tree-planting, and coastal rehabilitation activities, solidify Biñan’s position as a leader in effective, community-driven climate action.

Economic Development

and Livelihood

A core priority of the city administration is to actively support local vendors and ensure public health within key commercial centers. ‘In the first three months, we immediately visited the vendors, listened to their concerns, and delivered free medical services,’ Mayor Alonte noted.

True to this advocacy, the Biñan City Health Office II, in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), conducted Tuberculosis (TB) screening, utilizing chest X-rays for market vendors at the Biñan Public Market in Barangay Poblacion.

To further drive growth for the Small and Medium-sized Entrepreneurs (SMEs), the City of Biñan implemented the ‘Kadiwa ng Pangulo.’ The program aims to bring affordable staple goods directly to consumers, providing immediate support to local businesses and ensuring accessible food for all Biñanenses.

This dedicated focus on commerce culminated in a significant achievement, which Mayor Alonte revealed: ‘Biñan was recognized as the 2025 Most Business-Friendly

LGU City.’

Tourism and Cultural Development

Known for its deep cultural roots, the City of Biñan has always been dedicated to preserving and promoting its rich heritage. The city recently conducted the UST Cultural Mapping project. This meaningful effort culminated during the 2025 Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Tourism Pearl Awards, held on October 2, 2025, where the city won the Best Cultural Event for its vibrant Puto Latik Festival and Best Program for Culture and Arts for the highly successful Dulambayan Biñan Theater Arts Festival.

‘In addition, we are one of only three LGUs that are national finalists in the Philippine Tourism Awards for Best Tourism Destination of the Year,’ Mayor Alonte further highlighted.

To support the growing cultural reputation, the city has reinvested in its institutions. In celebration of Museums and Galleries Month, the Biñan City Museum has been reopened following extensive renovation and the upgrade of its collections. The museum now welcomes visitors free of charge, Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM.

For a unified and hospitable experience for all visitors, the city government adopted a standardized service commitment. Mayor Alonte announced going forward, ‘the words MABUHAY and SALAMAT PO will be embraced by the entire City Government in its frontline services as part of the Department of Tourism’s Filipino Brand of Service Excellence campaign (FBSE).’

Education

Another key aspect of the community that Mayor Alonte has focused on during his first 100 days is investing in the education of the younger generation. On October 07, 2025, the local government distributed P10,000 worth of academic assistance to a total of 501 students enrolled in the ‘Iskolar ng Biñan’ (INB) and ‘Artista at Atletang Biñanense College’ (ABC) programs from Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)-Biñan.

Furthermore, financial assistance was extended to 386 Grade 11 senior high school students under the local government’s Financial Assistance Program. Mayor Alonte emphasized the holistic approach to education, stating, ‘The effort of our teachers is immeasurable, which is why we also distributed the City Grant for public school and TESDA teachers during the celebration of World Teachers Day.’

The city’s commitment to quality education is evident in its robust institutional partnerships. These include the ‘Iskolar ng Biñan’ (INB) Scholarship Program with partner schools such as University of Perpetual Help System Laguna, UPH Dr. Jose G. Tamayo Medical University, St. Michael’s College of Laguna, La Consolacion College-Biñan, Lake Shore Colleges, Colegio San Agustin-Biñan, PUP-Biñan, Guardians Bonafide for Hope Foundation Inc., CITI Global College, and Trimex Colleges.

Additionally, the city has advanced specific collaborative initiatives, recently facilitating a site visitation at the Poblacion Day Care Center in partnership with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines Inc.

Health

Mayor Alonte prioritized bettering the city’s healthcare system. Together with Vice Mayor Jonalina ‘Dada’ R. Reyes and City Administrator Cherry Alonte-Nuñez, the City Government of Biñan signed a MOA with several key partner hospitals that are part of the Health Assistance Program for Indigent (HAPI) Families.

This program aims to help constituents who are most in need, believing that medical service is not a privilege, but a right of every Biñanense.

The partner hospitals now include Batangas Medical Center, Evangelista Medical Specialty Hospital Inc., UPH Dr. Jose G. Tamayo Medical Center, Biñan Doctors’ Hospital, New Sinai MDI Hospital, Unihealth Southwoods Hospital and Medical Center, Unihealth Sta. Rosa Hospital and Medical Center, and the Biñan City Hospital.

Mayor Alonte added: ‘In healthcare, we have established the City Employees Medical Clinic, opened the new Dialysis Center, and started construction of the Biñan City Cancer Institute.’

On top of these developments, the city’s capacity was elevated by securing necessary accreditations. Mayor Alonte noted, ‘Our capacity was further increased due to the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth accreditations-allowing us to deliver more free consultations, medicines, and medical and dental services.’

Other projects

The city has taken significant strides toward inclusive development and planning for future resiliency. Focusing on gender equality, the local government, represented by Mayor Alonte, Vice Mayor Reyes, and GAD Focal Person Dra. Arlene Alonte-Ancheta signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Alliance Institute PTE LTD.

This agreement is a crucial step towards implementing more inclusive development programs for all genders. In addition to this partnership, the administration also launched the GAD Agenda 2025 and the KabaranGAD ni Gel initiative to champion gender rights and welfare.

In terms of infrastructure and long-term planning, the administration is significantly strengthening the Project Monitoring Committee. This committee will oversee and ensure the swift completion of key infrastructure projects, particularly those related to drainage, river protection, and other vital community facilities.

In recognition of the pressing need for environmental resilience, a dedicated committee has been established to formulate the Flood Control Master Plan, with existing proposals currently undergoing revision to permanently address and mitigate flooding in several barangays across the city.

In just over a hundred days, Mayor Alonte’s administration has established a clear, comprehensive foundation for the city’s future. The scope of the work is vast, ranging from securing accolades to key infrastructure projects that demonstrate unwavering commitment to long-term growth.

While these accomplishments lay a solid track record across public safety, education, livelihood, and cultural development, the administration acknowledges that this is merely the beginning. The journey ahead demands continued focus, collaboration, and decisive leadership to sustain this positive momentum and ensure the improved quality of life of every Biñanense.

Tarlac City Vice Mayor Katrina Theresa Angeles is set to take over as the city’s chief executive following the final decision of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) disqualifying Mayor Susan Yap-Sulit.

Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia confirmed that the poll body will soon issue a certificate of finality and entry of judgment after the camp of Yap-Sulit failed to secure a temporary restraining order (TRO) from the Supreme Court within five days of the ruling’s promulgation.

‘Our rules state that a Comelec en banc decision becomes final and executory five days after promulgation unless a TRO is issued by the Supreme Court. As of now, no TRO has been granted. Once final, the Comelec decision will be implemented by the [Department of the Interior and Local Government],’ Garcia said, mostly in Filipino.

The Comelec en banc earlier disqualified Yap-Sulit from the May 2025 elections for failing to meet the one-year residency requirement under the Local Government Code.

The ruling also said Yap-Sulit could not establish that she was a resident of Barangay Tibag, and thus nullified her proclamation as mayor.

Garcia acknowledged that Yap-Sulit garnered the highest number of votes but clarified that it does not automatically mean she was a qualified candidate.

He added that the poll body retains jurisdiction even after a candidate’s proclamation

‘As the Supreme Court held in Velasco vs. Comelec, the will of the people cannot prevail over the rule of law. If one is elected under the belief of being qualified, but in truth is not, then from the very start that person was never a candidate,’ Garcia explained.

Yap-Sulit, meanwhile, called on the Comelec to respect the will of the people.

‘If this is not corrected, this will lead to the disenfranchisement of Filipino voters. It’s a crucial blow to a basic, fundamental, and constitutionally guaranteed human right – the right of constituents to choose their leaders,’ she said in a statement.

The unseated mayor also maintained that her victory represents the people’s mandate.

‘A technicality once dismissed cannot erase a mandate freely given. Tarlac City is my home, my life, and my heart. Respect and uphold the people’s vote.’ she emphasized.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and PearlPay have sealed a partnership to accelerate the adoption of QR Ph digital payments among local government units, schools, clinics, and micro and small enterprises.

The signing ceremony was held at the RCBC Collaboration Hub in A.T. Yuchengco Tower, Bonifacio Global City.

Through this collaboration, PearlPay operators can now accept interoperable QR Ph payments, the national standard for QR-powered transactions launched by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The initiative will empower community-based businesses such as small schools, clinics, and homegrown shops to join the formal digital economy, advancing financial inclusion at the grassroots level.

Users of RCBC’s digital platforms Pulz and DiskarTech, as well as other banks and e-wallets participating in QR Ph, can conveniently pay PearlPay-enabled merchants by simply scanning their QR codes, marking another step toward a unified, cash-lite Philippines.

RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva and PearlPay Chairman Jonas Bill Martinez led the signing, joined by PearlPay Co-Founder and President Sparky Perreras, CTO Pio Ryan Lumongsod, CFO Pao Dela Vega, and other key executives.

‘PearlPay isn’t just facilitating payments; it’s enabling digital livelihoods,’ said Villanueva. ‘This partnership aligns with our vision of open finance via API banking, where digital innovations connect ecosystems, empower communities, and drive inclusive growth for freelancers, gig workers, and everyday entrepreneurs.’

‘By advancing sustainable finance, we’re proving that innovation can uplift lives while expanding opportunities for all,’ Villanueva added.

PearlPay Chairman Jonas Bill Martinez emphasized the collaboration’s role in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) empowerment.

‘RCBC is an ideal partner as we scale QR Ph acceptance nationwide. Together, we’re reducing costs, improving safety, and helping small businesses build a digital footprint that unlocks access to credit and growth,’ Martinez said.

Co-Founder and President Sparky Perreras added, ‘This collaboration makes digital payments as easy as scanning a code. With PearlPay’s merchant stack integrated into the QR Ph rails, business owners can go digital instantly with no extra hardware and no friction.’

The RCBC-PearlPay partnership reinforces RCBC’s leadership in digital transformation and open finance. It follows recent milestones such as the launch of the MySSS Mastercard Debit Card powered by DiskarTech, which integrates social security benefits into digital banking for freelancers and gig workers.

RCBC continues to redefine sustainable digital banking by fostering interoperability, collaboration, and inclusion, ensuring that every Filipino, from city centers to barangays, can thrive in a connected digital economy.

AS the police secure communities during the coming Undas holidays, the acting National Police (PNP) chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on Thursday called on the public to be on the lookout against common crimes that historically occur during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

In a statement, Nartatez said that citizen awareness is the crucial first line of defense against opportunistic offenders.

‘Traditionally, the common incidents during Undas are theft, snatching and robbery. These are offenses that thrive in large, distracted crowds where people let their guard down,’ he said.

‘We want to empower our people to protect themselves and their families by being alert in crowded areas like cemeteries, terminals, and public transport hubs,’ Nartatez added.

He advised the public to avoid carrying large amounts of cash when visiting cemeteries, columbaria, and other memorial sites.

He also reminded people not to place gadgets or mobile phones in back pockets as such items could easily be targeted by pickpockets in crowded areas.

To prevent altercations and maintain peace, the PNP noted that liquor is not allowed in certain areas.

The police likewise reminded the public to refrain from bringing prohibited items such as weapons, sharp objects, and illegal drugs inside cemeteries.

The PNP urged the public to exercise extra caution and look after children, senior citizens, and pregnant individuals who may be vulnerable in large crowds.

In line with this, police intelligence units were tasked to proactively monitor potential criminal groups and threat groups.

More than 50,000 police personnel have been deployed nationwide as PNP is placed on a heightened alert from October 29 to November 3 to provide visible presence and deter criminal activity for this year’s Undas.

In addition, police assistance desks have been established across the country to provide immediate help to the public and facilitate the rapid reporting of lost items, emergencies, or suspicious activities.

DSWD on alert

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is on heightened alert nationwide in preparation for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2.

Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Group, who also serves as the DSWD spokesperson, assured the public that the agency has sufficient stockpiles of relief goods, including ready-to-eat food (RTEF), family food packs (FFPs), and other essential items, particularly for individuals who might get stranded while traveling.

‘We have prepositioned family food packs in our warehouses and ready-to-eat meals in various ports. Our food and non-food supplies are more than adequate,’ Dumlao emphasized.

She said the agency aims to ensure immediate assistance to families and individuals who may need support during the long holiday period.

‘Secretary Rex Gatchalian has issued a directive to all regional directors to make sure that our field offices are fully prepared to assist travelers returning to their provinces,’ she said.

She added that DSWD Quick Response Teams (QRTs) across the country are also on standby to respond to emergencies and provide support to local governments (LGUs) if additional assistance is required.

‘At DSWD, disaster preparedness is a year-round effort. We never stop working, even during Undas, to ensure we can immediately provide aid to those affected by the influx of travelers returning home,’ Dumlao said.

Red Cross ready

THE Red Cross (PRC) will deploy more than 2,200 volunteers and setting up nearly 300 first aid stations nationwide to ensure the safety and well-being of travelers and cemetery-goers during the observance of Undas (All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day) from October 30 to November 2.

During a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview on Wednesday, PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang said the organization began preparations two weeks ahead by enlisting volunteers and conducting refresher trainings, briefings and orientations to ensure readiness.

‘So, this year, mayroon po tayong isi-setup na 295 first aid stations, 66 ambulance units na idi-deploy natin [This year, we will set up 295 first aid stations and deploy 66 ambulances all over the country],’ she said.

‘Mayroon po tayong 190 ambulances, pero 66 lang idi-deploy natin, iyong the rest po ay naka-standby sa ating mga Red Cross offices. sa mga chapters natin nationwide [We have 190 ambulances nationwide, but 66 will be deployed, the rest will be on standby in our Red Cross chapters],’ she added.

To complement the operations, the PRC will also deploy 100 foot patrol teams in areas where vehicles cannot enter, such as narrow cemetery paths, resorts and crowded public spaces.

Another 59 mobile units and 155 welfare desks will be stationed across key locations, Pang said.

The PRC will operate in over 200 cemeteries, including major ones, and in 25 areas located near cemeteries or popular tourist spots.

Volunteers will also be assigned to airports, seaports, highways, bus terminals, barangay halls and fuel stations.

The welfare desks, according to Pang, will assist lost children and individuals needing help to contact family members or report missing belongings.

These stations will also support stranded passengers by providing food packs and assistance.

In 2024, the PRC assisted more than 11,000 individuals during Undas, most of whom suffered from minor injuries such as abrasions, burns, insect bites, dizziness, chest pain and high blood pressure.

A few major cases, including heart-related incidents, severe burns, and fractures, required hospital transport.

Pang reminded the public to stay in good physical condition before traveling and to secure their homes before leaving.

She also cautioned against announcing travel plans on social media and to inform only trusted neighbors or relatives to watch over their homes.

For motorists, Pang recommended performing the ‘Blowbagets’ safety check-Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air, Gas, Engine, Tires, and Self-before hitting the road.

She also emphasized safety reminders against distracted and drunk driving.

For emergencies, the public is urged to call PRC’s Hotline 143 for immediate assistance.

JOHN MARK TOKONG and three other local stars made the round of 32 of the World Surf League QS6000 Siargao International Surfing Cup off Cloud 9 in General Luna on Siargao Island.

Despite the break due to the small waves and current conditions,

Siargao’s very own Tokong, Eduardo Alciso, Shelamae Arjona and Nilbie Blancada survived the grueling round of 64 to go deeper into the competition supported by the Philippine Sports Commission chaired by Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio, General Luna Mayor Johnson Sajulga and Vice Mayor Romina Rusillon-Sajulga and Surigao Del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers.

Tokong, 29, conquered the island’s challenging waves with a precision ride to score 9.83 points in Heat 16 where Australia’s No. 1 junior surfer Dane Henry (11.83), Japan’s Jin Suzuki (8.67), Indonesia’s I Made Ariyana (11.30) and Italy’s Diego Cordeiro (9.20) also made the grade.

Alciso, on the other hand, placed second behind Heat 4 leader Shohei Kato (12.40) of Japan with 8.00 to also advance reach the next round, which organizers had to postpone for Monday because of rains and a small current.

Also progressing were Australians Dom Thomas, Kyan Falvey, Ash Jenner, Harley Walters, Morgan Cibilic, Axel Curotta, Ben Lorentson, Lennix Smith, Ty Richardson, Tane Dobbyn, Eden Hasson and Tom Whitpaine.

The other Japanese in the next phase were Ikko Watanabe, John Azuchi, Yuma Nagasawa, Ikko Watanabe, Reo Inaba, Takumi Nakamura, Raiki Masuda, Roi Kanazawa, Shohei Kato and Tenshi Iwami.

In the women’s QS6000 round of 48, 24-year-old pro Sheila Mae Arjona tallied 6.43 in Heat 6 to move to the round of 32.

Nildie Blancada, one of the country’s finest bets, was seeded to the round of 32.

The other qualifiers were Japan’s Mirai Ikeda, Anon Matsuoka and Sara Wakita; Australia’s Isi Campbell, Paige Hareb, Freya Prumm, Tayla Brown and Ziggy McKenzie and Great Britain’s Sky Brown and Milla Coco Brown.

After Siargao, the Qualifying Series goes to Baler from November 17 to 23 and La Union from January 11 to 16 and 20 to 26.

SENATE President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson on Thursday called the claim that former TSgt. Orly Guteza is under the custody of the Marines ‘a lie.’

Lacson did not hide his disgust in wondering aloud, ‘How much more fakery can we take?’ referring to the series of controversies that have involved the former soldier turned security consultant who was thrust onto Lacson’s Blue-Ribbon committee hearing into the flood-control fund mess without prior permission or notice.

Lacson said on Thursday the false claim that Guteza is in the custody of the Marines led by Maj. Gen.Vincent Blanco III was false as proven by Blanco himself who said Guteza was never ever in the Marines’ custody, contrary to the initial claim of former Quezon City Rep. Michael Defensor.

It was Defensor who referred Guteza to Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who presented Guteza as a ‘surprise’ witness in the September 25 Blue-Ribbon committee hearing.

Marcoleta is Lacson’s predecessor at the Blue Ribbon, and the two senators have had verbal skirmishes in the past.

‘As per verification made with the Marine Commandant, Maj. Gen. Vince Blanco-PMA Cl ’91] through fellow cavaliers [Philippine Military Academy graduates], Guteza is not, and has never been, in their custody. How much more fakery can we take?’ Lacson said in a post on X.

PMA graduates are bound by the code of conduct of never lying, cheating or stealing at least to each other.

On Wednesday, Defensor told a television interview that Guteza is in Marines custody.

Earlier this week, Lacson said the Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court in Manila found that the signature in Guteza’s notarized affidavit was not that of lawyer Petchie Espera. The Executive Judge recommended that Guteza and those responsible for presenting his affidavit undergo preliminary investigation for falsification.

Also, Lacson said a review of Senate CCTV footage showed Guteza arrived at the Senate at 8:27 a.m. of Sept. 25 and stayed at the office of Marcoleta for some 30 minutes before going down to the gallery of the session hall where the hearing was being held.

Guteza had claimed that he delivered suitcases of cash to the homes of ex-Rep. Elizaldy Co and former Speaker Martin Romualdez. Romualdez denied the allegation.

Lacson noted however that while Guteza’s statement before the Blue-Ribbon committee ‘remains valid,’ the development may affect his credibility.

Guteza not in PN custody

NONE of its units have custody of Guteza the Navy (PN) said on Thursday.

‘The PN emphasizes that Mr. Orly Regala Guteza has been retired from the Marine Corps [PMC] since June 30, 2020. As a retired serviceman, he no longer falls under the administrative authority of the PN. Any engagements or interactions he may have at present are undertaken in his personal capacity,’ the Navy spokesperson, Capt. Marissa Martinez, said in a statement.

Martinez made the statement in response to reports claiming that Guteza is in the custody of the PMC for security reasons.

Martinez stressed that Guteza is not being protected by the PMC which has no involvement in his personal affairs.

‘The PN remains committed to its mandate as a professional and non-partisan organization, dedicated to upholding national sovereignty and serving the Filipino people with honor and integrity,’ she added. With Rex Anthony Naval

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) announced its release of over P217.93 B in total benefit claims to healthcare facilities nationwide which represents a 94.18% increase compared to the same period last year (January to September).

This surge in payments solidifies PhilHealth’s financial support and marks a major achievement in its drive to provide prompt and reliable financial support to Filipino patients and healthcare providers.

PhilHealth’s total claims payment for the first nine months of 2025 reached P217.93 B, up from P112.23 B in 2024, both for public and private facilities.

Private facilities received P127.79 B, while public facilities accounted for PHP90.14 B in reimbursements.

As of September 30, 2025, PhilHealth achieved an average claims processing turnaround time of just 22 days, demonstrating remarkable improvement in efficiency and responsiveness, aligning withPresident Ferdinand R. Marcos’ directive to improve its performance.

PhilHealth emphasized that the expenditure is largely driven by payments for catastrophic conditions covered by Z Benefit Packages (heart surgery, cancers and kidney transplantation) and high-cost services like outpatient hemodialysis continue to rise significantly, reflecting the increasing medical needs of the population. This commitment ensures that members diagnosed with life-threatening or complex illnesses receive sustained, high-value financial support.

To ensure PhilHealth’s payment system sufficiently covers the complexities of modern medical treatment, the Corporation reiterated the need to transition to the Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) payment system.

According to Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, PhilHealth President and CEO, PhilHealth is actively pushing for a shift to the DRG payment system. ‘DRG will better account for the severity and resources needed for patient care, thereby ensuring that our healthcare providers are compensated accurately and sustainably for treating complex conditions.’, said Dr. Mercado.

DRG is a patient classification and provider payment system that groups patient cases, including services received, into standardized case groups according to diagnosis and treatment or procedure received.

PhilHealth assures the public that it will continue to accelerate its claims process through streamlined and automated systems to sustain the fast flow of funds to accredited healthcare facilities, adhering to its commitment of being Mabilis, Tapat, and Mapagkakatiwalaan.

THE Asia United Bank (AUB) reported sustained profitability and stronger earnings in the first nine months of 2025, as its net income reached P9.4 billion.

In a statement on Thursday, the AUB said its net income rose by 9 percent to P9.4 billion as of end-September from P8.6 billion a year ago.

AUB said this translated to a 3.2-percent return on assets and return on equity at 20.4 percent during the period.

The bank’s total operating income grew by 10 percent year-on-year to P17.2 billion from P15.6 billion. According to the lender, the growth was driven by a 22-percent increase in earning assets to P390.6 billion, resulting in an 8-percent increase in net interest margin to P13.5 billion and a net interest margin ratio of 5 percent during the period.

AUB’s non-interest income also expanded by 18 percent to P3.7 billion from a year ago, lifted by stronger trading and foreign exchange gains, as well as higher fee-based revenues from credit cards, AUB PayMate, HelloMoney, remittance transactions, trust operations and other branch-related services.

Despite the 10 percent increase in AUB’s operating expenses, at P5.5 billion, due to higher compensation, capital expenditures and growth-related costs, the bank said it maintained a cost-to-income ratio of 32.2 percent, which shows ‘sustained operational efficiency.’

‘Sustaining our profitability is no mean feat, considering the heightened risks in our operating environment, both domestically and globally. But we managed to post double-digit growth rates in our core businesses,’ said AUB President Manuel A. Gomez.

AUB’s total loan portfolio jumped by 29 percent year-on-year to P256.9 billion from P198.9 billion, while total deposits rose 19 percent to P336.2 billion to support business volume growth.

The bank said its funding cost remained low, with low-cost deposits under current account/savings account (CASA) accounting for 78 percent of total deposits, up from 76 percent a year earlier.

To support its growing loan portfolio, AUB increased its loan loss provisions by 141 percent.

AUB’s asset quality has also further improved, with the non-performing loan (NPL) ratio declining to 0.36 percent from 0.53 percent a year ago.

Loans also remain sufficiently covered, with the bank’s NPL coverage ratio at 117.14 percent.

‘We remain on the lookout for growth opportunities on the horizon, particularly in digital partnerships. It is through this that we can offer digital payment solutions such as our all-in-one digital payment acceptance product AUB PayMate, as well as revolutionize cross-border digital payments through our HelloMoney e-wallet, among others,’ Gomez said.

Furthermore, AUB’s total assets went up by 19 percent year-on-year to P417.1 billion from P352.0 billion.

The bank’s total equity also increased by 16 percent to P65.7 billion from P56.6 billion, mainly from retained earnings.

‘The bank is adequately capitalized with capital ratios well above regulatory requirements,’ it said, citing an indicative Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio of 18.75 percent and a capital adequacy ratio of 19.50 percent.

Around 2400 BCE, the Sumerian city-states of Lagash and Umma went to war over irrigation water. Lagash diverted canals feeding Umma’s fields, sparking one of the first documented conflicts over a resource humanity cannot live without. More than four millennia later, the same struggle endures-only now, it shapes geopolitics.

Afghanistan’s Qosh Tepa Canal is the newest chapter in this old story. The 285-kilometer waterway cuts across northern Afghanistan, diverting the Amu Darya River, which sustains millions in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. When complete, it could redirect up to 30 percent of the river’s annual flow-roughly six to 13 billion cubic meters of water. More than 230 kilometers were completed by March 2025, with full operation expected by 2028. For Afghanistan, long scarred by war and sanctions, the canal promises food security and sovereignty-a bold bid to trade dependency for self-reliance.

Downstream, the picture darkens. Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan rely heavily on the Amu Darya to irrigate their cotton and wheat fields. Reduced flow could devastate harvests, worsen soil salinization, and accelerate the ecological ruin of the basin.

The region has already lived through one water catastrophe- the Aral Sea’s collapse in the 1960s during the Soviet Union’s large-scale irrigation projects, a stark reminder of what happens when politics outrun planning. The worst-case projections estimate Uzbekistan could lose up to 15 percent of its water supply and Turkmenistan as much as 80 percent, with dire economic and political consequences.

The deeper issue is governance. Afghanistan is not a party to the 1996 Almaty Agreement regulating Central Asian water use and has no treaty with its northern neighbors. That absence leaves Kabul acting unilaterally, without mechanisms for data sharing or accountability. Sovereignty without coordination risks turning necessity into conflict.

Such tensions echo globally. Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam continues to test Egypt’s historic rights to the Nile. Turkey’s control of the Tigris and Euphrates strains its ties with Iraq and Syria. Even the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan-one of the world’s most durable water-sharing agreements-exists in a constant state of political tension. Across continents, rivers remain the front lines of power. Global food markets, energy flows, and trade routes are all influenced by water access. When upstream nations divert rivers, downstream economies falter, and global prices surge.

Afghanistan’s canal now draws attention far beyond Central Asia. Russia sees it as a challenge to its regional influence. China worries about instability along its Belt and Road corridors. Iran views it as a precedent for unilateral control. What appears to be a national development project has become a geopolitical signal-an assertion that Afghanistan will act first and negotiate later.

For the Philippines, this may seem remote, yet the same logic applies. Our water disputes unfold within our borders-between provinces, agencies, and sectors rather than nations. The 2019 Metro Manila water crisis left six million residents with intermittent supply and P464 million in crop losses. In Mindanao, drought and poor irrigation have displaced families and deepened rural poverty.

Senator Grace Poe noted that at least 45 executive agencies across 15 departments share overlapping water mandates. This fragmentation has left the Philippines ranked 33rd of 48 Asian countries in water security, despite its strong economic growth. Watershed management is divided, enforcement inconsistent, and long-term planning scarce. The proposed Department of Water Resources bill-House Bill 9663 and Senate Bill 2771-aims to centralize authority, but as of late 2024, it remains stalled in Congress.

Agriculture, which employs about 20 percent of the national workforce, depends on irrigation systems that lose nearly half their supply to inefficiency. Each drought turns the country from a rice producer into an importer, pushing food prices and inflation higher. The National Economic and Development Authority has warned that water scarcity threatens sustained growth as severely as any energy or fiscal crisis.

Water is not merely a natural resource. It is the foundation of power and survival and the first test of a nation’s competence. It is more than nature’s gift; it is the measure of how societies endure.

The Qosh Tepa Canal underscores a truth as old as Mesopotamia: whoever controls the flow controls the future. The Philippines, surrounded by water yet increasingly short of it, must stop treating scarcity as a temporary inconvenience. Nations that manage water with foresight will endure. Those that do not will discover, too late, that neglect is the most dangerous current of all.