Category: Business Mirror

Batangas City Grand Terminal has swiftly implemented several improvements following the inspection conducted by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) led by Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez on October 27, 2025.

The terminal management promptly responded by adding more seats and ceiling fans the day after the inspection. It has also designated a PWD waiting area for accessibility and inclusivity.

The DOTr’s assessment focused on enhancing passenger comfort and inclusivity within the terminal. Among its key recommendations were adding more seats in the waiting area, establishing a dedicated PWD waiting area, and installing additional electric fans to improve air circulation, all of which have been addressed by the terminal management.

As part of its Undas 2025 preparations, the Batangas City Grand Terminal has strengthened coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Red Cross, the Local Government of Batangas City, and its concerned departments, including the Batangas City Transportation Development and Regulatory Office (TDRO), City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), City Health Office, EBD Task Force, and Barangay Alangilan Council, as well as other partner agencies, to ensure the safety, orderliness, and convenience of all travelers.

In preparation for the upcoming Undas travel period, the terminal management held meetings with bus and jeepney operators to help ensure steady trip availability, continuous arrivals and dispatches, and to minimize delays or congestion. Observations of daily operations show that waiting areas are rarely full, and passenger flow remains smooth even during peak travel periods, supported by the management’s ongoing coordination and monitoring, which help maintain a safe and orderly terminal experience.

On regular days, the terminal serves an average of 10,000 passengers. However, the number is expected to surge to about 17,000 per day during the Undas season. To address this, the management has strengthened crowd control measures, security deployment, and public assistance operations to ensure smooth and efficient travel for all passengers.

The Batangas City Grand Terminal remains steadfast in its mission to be a safe, organized, and commuter-friendly gateway in Southern Luzon, continuously working hand in hand with government agencies and transport partners to enhance the public travel experience.

Megaworld Lifestyle Malls adjusts its operating hours for the observance of this year’s Undas from October 31 to November 2, 2025. Megaworld Lifestyle Malls ensures that establishments will remain accessible, offering a convenient place for everyone to gather, dine, and prepare for their respective family occasions during this solemn holiday weekend.

Please be guided by the following adjusted operating hours:

TAGUIG CITY

Uptown Bonifacio

October 31 and November 1 – 10AM – 11PM

November 2 – 10AM – 10PM

Venice Grand Canal at McKinley Hill

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 10PM

QUEZON CITY AND PASIG CITY

Eastwood City

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 10PM

Arcovia City

November 1 – 12NN – 9PM

MANILA CITY AND PASAY CITY

Lucky Chinatown

October 31 – November 2 – 9AM – 9PM

Newport Mall

October 31 – 11AM – 10PM

November 1 – 12NN – 9PM

MAKATI CITY

Paseo Center / Three Central Mall / San Antonio Place

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 8PM

San Lorenzo Place Mall

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 9PM

SOUTH

Southwoods Mall, Laguna

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 9PM

Alabang West Parade

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 9PM

Twin Lakes Shopping Village, Tagaytay

October 31 – November 2 – 9AM – 8PM

Greenhouse at The Village Square Alabang

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 8PM

OTHERS

Festive Walk Mall, Iloilo

October 31 – November 2 – 10AM – 9PM

Newcoast Beachwalk, Boracay

October 31 – November 2 – 9AM – 10PM

Clark Cityfront Mall

October 31 – 10AM – 9PM

November 1 – 11AM – 9PM

November 1 – Starbucks – 9AM – 11PM

November 2 – 10AM – 9PM

Lawmakers on Thursday said the enactment of the law banning all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogos) is a decisive victory for morality, justice, and national integrity.

Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. described President Marcos’ signing of Republic Act 12312, or the Anti-Pogo Act of 2025, as ‘a blow against avarice and vice-one that will resonate across our nation as a reaffirmation of moral governance and respect for the rule of law.’

Marcos on October 23 signed Republic Act 12312, which bans all offshore gaming operations and related service providers in the Philippines.

Abante, one of the principal authors of the measure and a longtime anti-gambling advocate, said the law is a concrete step toward restoring morality, order, and safety in the country after years of crimes and corruption linked to Pogo operations.

‘For years, we have been warning about the dangers of Pogos-not only because they violate our values, but because they have become breeding grounds for crime, corruption, and exploitation.’

He recalled that even when Pogos were defended as revenue generators, ‘no amount of taxes can justify a trade that results in the misery of our countrymen.’

‘Pogos have tainted our reputation abroad, turned parts of our cities into crime zones, and corrupted public officials. The supposed benefits never outweighed Pogos’ moral and social costs,’ he stressed.

Abante vowed to monitor the implementation of the ban to ensure that all Pogo operations are fully shut down and that no illegal online gambling operations emerge under a different name.

The Young Guns bloc in the House of Representatives also lauded the President for signing into law Republic Act 12237.

‘The House Quad Committee hearings revealed the full extent of Pogo-related atrocities, from sex trafficking rings hidden in upscale condominiums to sophisticated scams that defraud innocent victims worldwide,’ said Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega. ‘These operations, masquerading as legitimate businesses, have inflicted immeasurable harm on our communities. President Marcos’ bold action today closes this dark chapter and restores integrity to our nation’s economic landscape.’

‘This law is not just a ban; it’s a shield for our people against exploitation and a signal to the world that the Philippines stands firm against criminal enterprises,’ stated Deputy Speaker Jay Khonghun. ‘The Quad Committee’s findings-detailing billions in allegedly laundered funds and thousands of victims-galvanized us all. We thank the President for championing this cause and turning our collective resolve into reality.’

The new law mandates the immediate shutdown of all Pogo operations, revokes all related work permits and visas, imposes life imprisonment and hefty fines on violators, and authorizes law enforcement to seize assets tied to these activities. It also includes provisions for the rehabilitation of victims and the conversion of Pogo-affected properties for legitimate economic use.

Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said the enactment of the ban reaffirms the government’s resolve to cleanse the system of corruption and criminality.

‘We witnessed firsthand how Pogos eroded trust in our institutions and fueled inequality. The hearings exposed their ties to corruption at every level, from local enforcers to international syndicates,’ he said.

For her part, House Deputy Minority Leader Leila M. de Lima said the enactment of the Anti-Pogo Act institutionalizes a long-overdue policy shift that prioritizes national integrity and security over profit.

‘We have been a vocal critic of these Pogos-a Duterte administration-sponsored Chinese creeping invasion that catered to the interests of Chinese criminals and pro-China government officials,’ de Lima said.

She called for the strict and sustained implementation of the law to ensure that no illegal online gambling operations resurface under different names. ‘We must ensure the strict implementation of this law so that it cannot be circumvented by those with selfish interests, especially under future administrations,’ she said.

Meanwhile, Party-list Rep. Eddie Villanueva of Cibac described the enactment as a ‘moral and social victory’ against what he called a national menace, citing the industry’s links to human trafficking, money laundering, and other crimes.

From Oktoberfest nights to holiday parties, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) is bringing bold, refreshing flavors to every toast with its exciting line-up of alcoholic beverages: Hard Dew, Saero, and Soonhari.

Designed to suit every kind of celebration, these drinks offer vibrant tastes that make each moment memorable-whether it’s an intimate get-together, a lively night out, or a full-blown Oktoberfest celebration.

Hard Dew reimagines the iconic Mountain Dew with a refreshing kick of alcohol, perfect for thrill-seekers craving something new. Saero is the first-of-its kind zero-sugar soju from Korea, introduced to meet the growing demand of health-conscious consumers. Meanwhile, Soonhari delivers PCPPI’s take on the beloved Korean soju experience, available in a range of sweet and fruity flavors best enjoyed when shared.

‘With Filipinos becoming more open to innovative drinking experiences, our portfolio of alcoholic beverages is crafted to offer something unique for every taste,’ said Lyndon Cuadra, PCPPI’s Chief Commercial Officer. ‘From Oktoberfest celebrations to holiday reunions, Hard Dew, Saero, and Soonhari add an extra spark to every gathering.’

‘This line-up shows how PCPPI is evolving with our consumers. So we’re not just refreshing moments today-we’re shaping how Filipinos celebrate for years to come,’ Cuadra concluded.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, bringing well-loved brands such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mug, Mirinda, Milkis, Gatorade, Sting, Lipton, Tropicana, Premier, Hard Dew, Soonhari, Saero, and Chungha to Filipino consumers.

A modern restaurant in Manila that reflects Chef Josh Boutwood’s half-British, half-Filipino roots and Spanish influences bagged the coveted Two Stars rating in Michelin’s first-ever restaurant selection for the Philippines with the launch of the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs and Cebu 2026.

The event, which took place on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom of the Manila Marriott Hotel, marks a historic milestone that puts the spotlight on the Philippines’ vibrant gastronomic identity and elevates its place on the global culinary map.

The coveted selection includes a total of 108 establishments, with Manila and Environs represented by 90 restaurants, and Cebu by 18, reflecting both metropolitan sophistication and regional soul.

‘We are honored to present the first edition of the MICHELIN Guide in the Philippines,’ said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. ‘This selection pays tribute to a new generation of Filipino chefs, and international chefs who have embraced the Philippines, drawing inspiration from local heritage, bold flavors, and heartfelt hospitality. Whether it’s fine dining or street-side eateries, our inspectors were truly impressed by the culinary authenticity and creativity found across the country.’

The Michelin Star System

So how does the Michelin star system work? Michelin’s system rates restaurants based on a scale of one to three stars, awarded by anonymous inspectors. One star signifies ‘a very good restaurant in its category,’ two stars denote ‘excellent cooking, worth a detour,’ and three stars are for ‘exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey’. The stars are awarded to the restaurant, not the individual chef, and focus on the quality of the food, including the ingredients, mastery of flavor and technique, consistency, and overall quality of the dining experience.

Michelin Guide Inspectors visit restaurants multiple times anonymously, and pay for their meals to evaluate them and ensure their experiences are identical to those of other customers

In this inaugural selection, 9 restaurants are awarded MICHELIN Stars:

While no Philippine restaurant was given Three Michelin Stars this year, one restaurant achieved the rare distinction of Two MICHELIN Stars with its debut, recognizing its ‘excellent cooking that’s worth a detour.’

Helm – A modern restaurant in Manila under The Bistro Group chain, Helm reflects Chef Josh Boutwood’s half-British, half-Filipino roots and Spanish influences, blending creativity with precision. Rather than leaning into predictable East-West fusion, Helm’s eight-course tasting menu defies easy labels. Each dish is guided by a deep respect for seasonality and local ingredients-a philosophy Boutwood honed during his time with Raymond Blanc in the UK. The result: meticulously crafted plates with artful presentations reminiscent of Noma in Denmark. Set around an intimate U-shaped counter with just ten seats, Helm offers a rare culinary experience where innovation and excellence unfold before your eyes.

8 restaurants received One MICHELIN Star for ‘high-quality cooking that’s worth a stop.’

Asador Alfonso – Their ingredients are sourced directly from Spain to deliver authentic dishes that balance rustic simplicity with remarkable depth and character.

Celera – Two chef-owners craft contemporary Asian dishes that draw on influences from Japan, China, Singapore, and beyond.

Gallery by Chele – Culinary excellence meets environmental integrity at Gallery by Chele, from local sourcing and waste reduction to educating diners.

Hapag – Tapping into the full potential of local ingredients, Hapag brings a modern, sophisticated touch to traditional dishes.

Inatô – Ring the bell to enter a chic, intimate space where a sculptural marble counter seats eight guests facing the open kitchen.

Kasa Palma – The chef draws on French techniques and global influences – from Latin America to Southeast Asia – and makes good use of wood fire. Local ingredients go into expressive, refined dishes.

Linamnam – The chef welcomes just 10 diners into what was once his childhood bedroom – now transformed into an elegant dining space adorned with woven wall coverings, wooden floors, and Tiffany-style lamps.

Toyo Eatery – ‘Toyo’, Tagalog for ‘soy sauce’, hints at the restaurant’s appreciation of apparently simple items that in fact take time and are complex to craft.

These restaurants represent a variety of culinary styles, from refined interpretations of traditional Filipino fare to boundary-pushing fusion menus – all guided by precision, consistency, and a deep respect for ingredients.

Other awardees included the following:

The Green Star Community: Showcasing Dedication to Mindful Gastronomy

The MICHELIN Green Star editorially highlights restaurants that, among the MICHELIN Guide selection, have inspired and impressed Inspectors with their committed vision for the future of gastronomy. By gathering a community of innovative establishments driven to pursue progress in the role of restaurants, the MICHELIN Green Star fosters dialogue and collaboration, encouraging establishments to inspire and evolve together.

This year, Gallery By Chele has newly captured the Inspectors’ attention for their inspiring visions:

Gallery By Chele – Recognized for their farm-to-table ethos. Gallery By Chele practices waste-reduction and commits itself to biodiversity and community sourcing.

The restaurant forms a community deeply committed to presenting another vision of gastronomy.

Bib Gourmand: Quality at Great Value

The Bib Gourmand selection features 25 restaurants – 19 in Manila and Environs and 6 in Cebu – applauded for offering good food at moderate prices.

In Metro Manila and Environs

Bolero – The largely Spanish menu is laced with Mediterranean notes and global influences – built for sharing, generous portions make for great value.

Brick Corner – The menu hones in on North Indian cuisine – rich, spiced, and hearty fare.

Cabel – The cuisine reflects the length and breadth of the Philippines, albeit with a penchant for southern Mindanao.

COCHI – Located on a corner of BGC, this restaurant brings typical Filipino flavours into a modern setting.

Em Hà N?i – Expect comforting bowls of ph? gà, a crisp nem rán appetizer, and fragrant rice noodles with grilled pork.

Hálong – The chef presents a freer, more multicultural and emotionally driven style in a menu that blends Latin American and Asian influences with finesse.

Kumba – The chef, inspired by her mother’s recipes and time working at a Chinese restaurant in Singapore, serves nuanced dishes from China, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan.

La Pita – The chef brings a warm taste of the Middle East to an intimate sunlit spot in a cosmopolitan neighborhood.

Lampara – The mood inside the restaurant, and out on the terrace, is relaxed and inviting. Ingredient-led dishes showcase classic French techniques infused with Filipino touches.

Los Tacos – This casual space featuring glass walls, concrete, and soaring ceilings has a simple yet sophisticated modern feel. The buzzing open kitchen sets the stage for bold Mexican flavors.

Manam at the Triangle – Manam’s flagship restaurant in Ayala Triangle elevates the brand with its minimalist lines, vibrant Filipino pop art, and an airy, polished aesthetic. It feels welcoming despite its spaciousness.

Morning Sun Eatery – This modest roadside eatery serves authentic Ilocano comfort food. Presented with a rich flavor, home-style classics such as kilawin, sweet pork skewers, pinakbet, and the standout laing.

Palm Grill (Diliman) – The restaurant presents classic Southern Mindanao cuisine, which uses spices, acidity, and roasted coconut for rich and intense flavors.

Pilya’s Kitchen – This counter in the food market serves its delicious signature ribbon-like noodles featuring a chewy and elastic feature.

Sarsa – Marbled tiles, rattan lamps, simple wooden tables, and casual seating make for a laid-back vibe. Green-accented walls and screen dividers offer structure, but the focus is firmly on flavor over form.

SOME THAI – Inspired by the chef’s travels, this relaxed restaurant transports you to Thailand with its modern take on Thai favorites.

Taquería Franco – The chef reimagines tacos through a Gallic lens, serving creations such as foie gras, steak frites, and lamb bourguignon alongside beloved classics.

The Underbelly – A young internationally trained chef brings his love of Japan to the table – try Billy’s pork rib ramen in a rich pork bone broth, offering an endless depth of flavor.

Your Local – The restaurant serves easy-going, wallet-friendly gastronomy, including dishes that are ideal for sharing.

In Cebu

Abaseria Deli and Café – Opened as a jewelry export business in 1999, home-cooked dishes such as sinigang pasayan, fish with tofu in black bean sauce, and Humba stew are made for sharing.

CUR8 – Where Asian cuisine is reimagined with bold style, has a fantastic deal in their lunch set, showcasing various dishes as small portions.

Esmen – For 60 years, this market-side eatery has been loved for one thing: linarang, a sour fish soup made with fresh porcupine fish simmered over wood fire.

Lasa – The well-drilled team serves refined Filipino fare with regional soul. Shrimp kinilaw with kimchi, chicken skin nachos, and the signature Lasa crispy pata are vibrant updates on tradition.

Pares Batchoy Food House – This unpretentious restaurant has been winning fans with Filipino food, serving the signature stewed beef noodle soup, pares batchoy, and seared stuffed bangus, a delicate milkfish dish.

The Pig and Palm – At this stylish spot led by a globe-trotting British chef, the menu focuses on pork – confit pork belly is a signature dish – and the small plates are conducive for sharing.

From family-run eateries to modern bistros, the Bib Gourmand list reflects the diversity and depth of everyday dining in the Philippines, where value, flavor, and soul go hand in hand.

MICHELIN Guide Selected Restaurants: Celebrating Culinary Excellence

Beyond MICHELIN Star and Bib Gourmand distinctions, the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs and Cebu 2026 features 74 MICHELIN Selected restaurants: 62 in Manila and Environs and 12 in Cebu.

Each of these establishments has been recognized for the quality of their cuisine, character of their dining experience, and overall consistency.

Special Awards: Honoring Talent Behind the Scenes

In addition to the restaurant selection, the MICHELIN Guide in the Philippines also presents 3 Special Awards, celebrating individuals who elevate the industry through dedication, innovation, and passion.

The MICHELIN Guide Young Chef Award – Awarded to a rising talent demonstrating exceptional skill, creativity, and leadership in the kitchen.

The award is given to Chef Don Patrick Baldosano from Linamnam, One MICHELIN Star.At 27, Chef Don Patrick Baldosano transforms Filipino ingredients and traditions into innovative dishes, blending techniques like fermentation and aging to celebrate regional diversity.

The MICHELIN Guide Service Award – Recognizing excellence in hospitality, attentiveness, and the art of creating memorable guest experiences.

The award is given to Mrs. Erin Recto from Hapag, One MICHELIN Star. With experience in Australia, Portugal, and the Philippines, Mrs. Recto combines her roles as Operations Director and Sommelier, while actively engaging with guests, creating a welcoming space that highlights Filipino culture and hospitality.

The MICHELIN Guide Exceptional Cocktails Award – Celebrating innovation, balance, and personality in the craft of mixology.

The award is given to Mr. Benjamin Leal from Uma Nota, MICHELIN Selected.With a career spanning three continents, Mr. Leal has crafted a menu of inventive cocktails, blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Southeast Asian influences using local ingredients, bringing fresh energy to the bar.

The debut of the MICHELIN Guide in the Philippines marks the beginning of a new chapter for the country’s culinary community. With its rich heritage, diverse influences, and bold generation of chefs, the Philippines has joined a global stage – and the journey has only just begun.

‘The enthusiasm and dedication we’ve witnessed from chefs and restaurateurs here is truly inspiring,’ added Mr. Poullennec. ‘We look forward to continuing our exploration and sharing the Philippines’ culinary stories with the world.’

President Ferdinand Marcos vowed to achieve ‘practical’ gains from his participation in the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

The chief executive made the pronouncement while meeting with the Filipino community in at the Wyndham Grand Hotel in Busan, South Korea.

‘In the coming days while participating at the APEC’s Economic Leaders Meeting in Gyonju, I will push for initiatives that directly impact the daily lives of our people,’ Marcos said.

Among the said initiatives he said, are support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME), digital trade opportunities, food and energy security, and climate change.

Marcos said he will also push to bring in more investments to generate additional sustainable jobs.

‘I will be meeting with business leaders to promote greater investment in industries such as technologies, agriculture and renewable energy. Every collaboration we made means more livelihood, more learning and more hope for Filipino families,’ he said.

He also informed the 212 Filipinos, who attended the event about government efforts to make government services accessible to them.

This includes opening a new Consulate General in Busan and a Social Security System office at the Philippine Embassy in Seoul.

‘We work very hard to ensure government services reach you all the way here in Korea or wherver you are. Our programs for our OFWs will continue so they will be given support and protected,’ Marcos said partly in Filipino.

THE Philippine peso rebounded on Wednesday, back at P58 levels after slipping past P59, as profit-taking persisted and seasonal dollar inflows picked up ahead of Undas and the start of holiday-related spending.

The local currency closed at P58.69 to the United States dollar after opening at P59.15, and traded for as high as P59.25 and as low as P58.65, based on data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines.

Some economists attributed the strength of the peso to investors’ profit-taking, locking in gains before selling the currency after the exchange rate breached the P59 level on Tuesday.

‘The peso’s recovery today, after breaching 59 PHP/USD yesterday, looks like a technical rebound as some investors used the weaker level to sell dollars,’ Moody’s Analytics economist Sarah Tan told BusinessMirror.

Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, said the peso reaching the P59-mark may have triggered some healthy profit-taking or stop loss orders, as an ‘effective way’ to discourage any undue speculation.

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation President Mike D. Enriquez told BusinessMirror that the correction was a combination of some profit-taking and possible conversion of foreign investors of their US dollars to Philippine peso for their Maynilad IPO payment.

‘We also expect remittances from overseas Filipino workers [OFWs] to help stabilize the Philippine peso towards December,’ Enriquez said.

According to Ricafort, the recent depreciation of the peso made it more attractive for some OFWs and other US dollar earners to convert their greenbacks ahead of the Undas weekend and holiday-related spending.

Bank of the Philippine Islands lead economist Jun Neri said the peso depreciated due to a combination of rising oil prices, the central bank’s dovish stance and net foreign selling in the local stock market.

With inflation at manageable levels, Neri said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) might see the recent depreciation as ‘tolerable.’

‘It might not be a concern from their perspective as long as the inflation forecast for the next two years remains within the target,’ Neri said.

‘Also, allowing the Peso to weaken might be a strategic move for them since a weaker Peso could support growth and household spending through its impact on remittances,’ Neri added.

Technical indicators suggest the local currency might be in oversold territory, which means a correction or a sideways movement is possible, Neri said.

A continued appreciation of the peso would depend on the BSP’s intervention or smoothing any volatility, Ricafort said.

‘Seasonal increase in OFW remittances and conversion would also help support the peso seasonally towards the end of the year,’ Ricafort added.

Economists also cited expectations that the US Federal Reserve would cut interest rates, which could weaken the dollar and, in turn, support emerging market currencies, such as the peso.

Enriquez said the peso against the dollar may stabilize near the P58.50 level as the Fed is anticipated to adjust its policy rates lower.

‘The Fed is expected to cut rates amid better-than-expected inflation print in the US. Rate cuts from the US side may cause the dollar to slightly weaken against the peso,’ Reinielle Matt Erece, economist at Oikonomia Advisory and Research, Inc. told BusinessMirror.

Despite all these factors that could strengthen the peso, Erece said developments in the political and economic landscape, such as anti-corruption reforms, investment or business reforms, are important in stopping the bleeding of capital from the country.

‘Too much capital outflows, e.g., foreigners selling off shares, investments pulling out, may be the primary cause of the falling peso,’ Erece added.

THE Bureau of Immigration reminded travelers on Thursday that long lines are expected at immigration counters as thousands of passengers are expected to take advantage of the long weekend to head to their hometowns and visit their departed loved ones during the upcoming Undas.

However, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado assured the public that the agency will be in full force at all international airports nationwide to process the entry and exit of passengers and attend to their other needs.

‘We advise travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight to avoid delays,’ Viado said.

The BI chief said the agency expects a surge of passengers at major airports beginning Friday through the following week, considering that October 31 had been declared a special non-working holiday,

‘All immigration counters will be fully manned to ensure smooth processing of arriving and departing passengers,’ Viado pointed out.

The BI has also deployed additional personnel and implemented measures to maintain efficient passenger movement despite the expected increase in travelers.

‘Our officers will be working round-the-clock to accommodate the influx of passengers during the Undas break,’ Viado said.

While ongoing airport improvement works may slightly affect movement in some terminals, operations will continue as usual, he added.

‘The Bureau is coordinating closely with airport authorities to ensure that despite construction and facility upgrades, services remain uninterrupted,’ the BI chief stressed.

‘We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as these improvements are meant to enhance the overall airport experience,’ he added.

THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Thursday held its first meeting with various government agencies in a bid to recover stolen public funds intended for flood control and other infrastructure projects of the government.

Among those present during the meeting were representatives from Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Insurance Commission (IC), Land Transportation Office (LTO), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Office of the Solicitor General (OSG), Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The said agencies are part of the ICI’s Asset Recovery-Technical Working Group (AR-TWG) which is tasked to recover public funds and assets related to the flood control corruption scandal.

The Thursday meeting of the AR-TWG focused on establishing a unified framework for inter-agency coordination, data sharing, and legal processes related to the recovery of public funds and assets linked to irregular or anomalous flood control projects.

The group also outlined operational guidelines, timelines and priority actions in relation to ICI’s initiatives to hold those responsible for the anomalies accountable and recover government properties and assets from them.

‘Your participation and representation in this meeting will be highly valuable as we move toward a more coordinated and effective approach in recovering what rightfully belongs to our citizens,’ ICI chairman and retired SC Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr. said in his opening statement.

The ICI said the AR-TWG is closely coordinating ‘to prevent overlap on investigations, and to promptly address any bottlenecks that may arise in gathering documents and carrying out the necessary administrative and legal procedures-this unified process ensures efficiency and robustness.’

THE Philippines’s growing Generation Alpha population-the highest proportion in Asia-could be a domestic edge boosting consumption growth, according to BMI, a Fitch Solutions Company.

In a commentary on Wednesday, BMI said the Philippines will have the highest proportion of Gen Alpha among major Asian markets, consisting of 27 percent of the total population in 2030.

Gen Alpha are those born between 2010 to 2024, and associated with tech-savviness, having been born in a highly digitalized world and exposed to technology at a young age.

This generation already accounts for a quarter of the global population, seen totaling around 2 billion in 2025, which is an ‘important demographic of the global consumer market,’ BMI said.

‘Parents of Gen Alphas are predominantly Millennials and older Gen Zs, whose spending habits and attitudes will set the foundation of how Gen Alpha evolve into the market,’ BMI said.

This ‘demographic sweet spot,’ according to Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, is the country’s ‘greatest advantage’ to sustain its economic momentum.

With a median age of 25 years old, the Philippines has the youngest workforce in the world. ‘The entry of millions of young Filipinos into the workforce will fuel our industries, drive innovation, and shape the country’s future,’ Recto said earlier.

Trailing the Philippines in terms of high Gen Alpha proportions are Malaysia and Vietnam, which will make up 21 percent of the total population in both markets.

Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea will have the smallest proportion of Gen Alpha consumers, at 12 percent and 11 percent, respectively, due to their aging population and low birth rates.

Across regions, Asia will have the biggest population of Gen Alphas, naturally driven by its large population.

By 2030, Asia will have a Gen Alpha population of about 935.7 million, making up almost half of the global Gen Alpha population.

However, this will slightly decline to 912.2 million by 2050, as Mainland China and South Korea face dropping birth rates and shrinking family sizes.

Gen Alpha will be the highest in India and Indonesia, consisting of 23 percent of both markets, while Mainland China Gen Alpha will make up 16 percent of the market’s population in 2030.

Zooming out, Asia will be followed by Sub-Saharan Africa with 512.9 million in Gen Alphas, Middle East and North Africa with 166 million, Latin America (148 million), Central and Eastern Europe (98 million), North America (66 million) and Europe (63 million).