Category: Business Mirror

The Procurement and Supply Chain Institute of Asia (PASIA) proudly announces the return of PASIAWORLD 2025, Asia’s premier integrated conference on supply chain, procurement, and logistics, set for November 13-14, 2025, at the Manila Marriott Hotel.

The two-day conference will gather the region’s most influential leaders, experts, and decision-makers to exchange insights, share best practices, and explore fast-evolving trends in the global supply chain and procurement landscape. Delegates can expect plenary sessions, panel discussions, interactive roundtables, exhibits, and valuable networking opportunities that foster learning, collaboration, and innovation.

With the theme ‘Leading Supply Chain, Procurement and Logistics Innovations Amidst Volatility and Disruptions,’ PASIAWORLD 2025 focuses on engaging more CEOs, CXOs, and professionals with the knowledge and foresight to navigate today’s complex, rapidly changing environment. It will spotlight agile, strategic, and tech-savvy leadership in supply chain management.

Key topics include strategic sourcing, category management, artificial intelligence in procurement intelligence, supplier performance, and decision-making. The program will also address global supply chain disruptions and strategies to improve visibility, resilience, and adaptability. ESG and sustainability will be highlighted as organizations face growing pressure to align with environmental, social, and governance goals.

A key highlight is the Ethics and Integrity Program Re-launch, where CEOs and procurement leaders from both public and private sectors will reaffirm their commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.

In today’s homes, the bathroom has evolved beyond function. It became a renewed space for comfort, design, and technology. It can feel overwhelming to start, and even more so to invest, in smart technology. So, if you’re longing for a modern oasis but unsure where to start, this article is for you! Take time to understand your options and choose what suits you best.

Smart Accessories

Use every square foot of your space with smart storage solutions. Organize the hidden clutter using a stainless mirror cabinet. It comes with a sleek mirror and enclosed storage in one! This is a convenient way to access your toiletries and grooming items without losing the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom. Another option that can work for you is adouble-layer glass shelf. It also adds visual lightness and function. Perfect for displaying toiletries or small plants. This is also efficient in keeping everything within reach without cluttering the space.

Needless to say, we don’t want a soap residue accumulating on sinks. It’s a total eye sore! A brass soap dish with a glossy finish, for instance, adds a refined gleam to the sink area while resisting corrosion. It is basic but keeps your soap dry between uses.

Smart Bathroom Solutions

What makes a bathroom ‘genius’ lies in the seamless combination of design and intelligent function. You might want to ground your look with a non-slip bath mat and stainless steel floor drain. Both might sound boring but it does help to prevent accidents, clogging, and water buildup.

Make your bathroom experience more intentional and personal with Grohe. Its innovative shower system features StarLight Technology for a long-lasting, brilliant finish. Engineered with state-of-the-art precision, Grohe delivers reliable performance and durability. Its surface is three times harder and ten times more scratch-resistant. The brand’s signature DreamSpray Technology provides even water flow for a soothing, spa-like experience, while TurboStat keeps water temperature steady. You can also hush your worry away with its SafeStop button feature. Perfect for an extra layer of safety and comfort.

Another practical bathroom solution to add is thefan shape shower enclosure. Wet floors post-showers can be a hassle to dry off. Hence, enclosures possess a watertight sealing quality that would keep the water at bay. It also creates a defined shower space without overwhelming the room.

Another brand to look out for is Kohler. Kohler defines what comfort and innovation mean today. The infamous veil intelligent toilet transforms frequent bathroom visits to indulgence. It is outfitted with technological features such as seat warmers, bidet functionality, lighting, self-cleaning functions, and auto flushing. This smart toilet is completely hands-free, which limits the transference of germs and other unwanted pathogens in the bathroom. Additionally, the integration of advanced technology allows for customizable settings, making each user’s experience uniquely tailored to their preferences.

Kohler toilets also promote water conservation and energy efficiency, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

Complete the look with the Kohler round vessel lavatory. It is known for its thin-edged, minimalist design. Kohler clean coat surface and smooth lines make cleaning effortless, simply wipe it down after each use to maintain its pristine look.

Finding time to relax and recharge in today’s busy world is essential to your overall well-being. A posh and smart massage bathtub offers a luxurious yet practical way to do just that. Combining the soothing warmth of water with targeted massage jets, it delivers multiple health benefits. Its ergonomic design and gentle massaging feature invite you to unwind, ease tension, and restore your energy.

These cosmopolitan, multi-sensory showers will stimulate all your senses and transform your bathroom into an indulgent space for physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

The Foundation of Modern Style

If you’re starting from scratch, your choice of tiles will define the bathroom’s atmosphere. The matte wall tile in ceramic adds a clean and modern tone ideal for indoor spaces. Its matte surface diffuses light gently, creating a calm and elegant backdrop. You may also want to consider anti-slip floor tile, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its anti-slip feature enhances safety coming to terms with style. Both of these tiles create a perfect base for a genius bathroom.

Smart Habits

Creating the genius bathroom doesn’t end with design. It continues with mindful care. Keep ventilation steady to prevent moisture buildup. Wipe down mirrors and glass panels after use to avoid water marks. Store toiletries neatly and regularly declutter to keep surfaces open and calming. Consider using natural cleaning agents like baking soda and vinegar, which are gentle yet effective.

In essence, a genius bathroom is one that works harmoniously with your habits. Make sure that every fixture, surface, and detail contributes to comfort and function. With smart choices and a little care, you can turn a simple bathroom break into something luxurious and personal .

For 19 years, Boys Night Out (BNO) wasn’t just a radio show, it was a nightly ritual. From the chaotic laughter, to the unfiltered talk, TonyToni, Slick Rick, and Sam YG (later with Gino and Tin) built something that went beyond the booth. It wasn’t just radio-it was family.

‘The last 19 years didn’t feel like 19 years-it just felt like hanging out with people I love being around,’ shared Slick. ‘And we did a good job because we loved what we were doing.’

Night after night, listeners found comfort in familiar voices that made them laugh through the chaos, heal through heartbreak, and feel a little less alone.

The best nights, the realest moments

Of all the unforgettable moments in BNO history, TonyToni recalls that none hit harder than the night ‘Jojo, the Love Survivor’ called in 2012.

‘Tumawag siya kasi gusto niyang tumalon sa building sa Ortigas because he found his girlfriend cheating,’ recalled TonyToni.

For 45 minutes, the Boys, joined by Ramon Bautista that night, did what they’ve always done best: they listened. They talked Jojo through the pain, cracked jokes to make him smile, and convinced him to hold on. In that moment, what began as a radio show, became something far more profound-a lifeline.

Jojo eventually became a regular, proving that BNO was never just about talk; it was about taking care of your own.

From LOLs to life lessons

Over nearly two decades, fans witnessed the Boys’ own milestones unfold in real time from singlehood confessions and late-night antics to life-changing transitions into marriage and fatherhood. Then came Tin, who brought a new spark to the show: a sharp, funny, and fearless female voice who could go toe-to-toe with the Boys.

‘It was really me joining such radio legends’, said Tin. ‘I’m the only girl amongst four boys, and I think that’s also why I’m there. I balance them sometimes and I offer a different perspective. It was also a big sign that the show and the hosts themselves were evolving. Everyday women, who are smart, who are opinionated, they welcome us with open arms. And they never told us to be less. They just told us to be us.’

And as the show grew up, so did its hosts. From late nights out to quiet twilights in, BNO became proof that you can settle down without losing your spark. The stories changed, but the laughs and the frenzy never did.

Even COVID couldn’t keep them apart. In true BNO fashion, the Boys caught the virus together, turning an uncertain time into another shared experience. Through isolation and fear, they found ways to laugh on-air, reminding fans that humor could still exist even in the darkest days.

The Last Night Out: One Final Ride

As fate would have it though, things took an uncanny, unfortunate turn, and Boys Night Out was not allowed to air that much-awaited finale show.

But the Boys refuse to end it that way. And are coming together for The Last Night Out.

This is BNO’s final bow-a toast to the spirit that kept the show alive for 19 yars continues, in stories like Jojo’s, in milestones shared, and memories that refuse to fade.

‘Last Night Out is actually not for us. This is the night that we give back,’ says Sam. ‘This is us honoring every single person who was part of Boys Night Out and who made it the show that it was for 19 years.’

‘They say you’re only good ’til your last show,’ adds TonyToni. ‘So I feel like fans deserve a last show. I think they deserve a goodbye.’

So join TonyToni, Slick Rick, Sam YG, Tin, and Gino for The Last Night Out, a grand finale celebrating almost two decades of laughter, love, and late-night magic.

The Lighthouse Group teams up with the Boys to mount this fitting closure-a true celebration of 19 years of Boys Night Out on the radio.

Stay tuned and follow BNO’s official pages for ticketing details and announcements.

‘What people can expect is, everything that you grew up with listening to BNO, you’ll get to see, you’ll get to hear,’ share Gino. ‘It’s a celebration essentially, as cliché as it might be, of the 19 years of Boys Night Out. Saktong inuman, saktong tambay and hopefully, like what we always aim for every show, we’ll leave you entertained.’

On November 10, get ready to shout one last time: ‘Yeah, meenn!’

The two premier collegiate sports tournaments-Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)-are now in full swing.

The UAAP is an athletic association of eight Metro Manila universities, composed of the University of the Philippines (UP), Adamson University (AdU), Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU), De La Salle University (DLSU), Far Eastern University (FEU), National University (NU), University of the East (UE), and University of Santo Tomas (UST).

The NCAA is composed of Arellano University (AU), Colegio de San Juan de Letran, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (CSB), Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC), José Rizal University (JRU), Lyceum of the Philippines University, Mapúa University, San Beda University, San Sebastian College-Recoletos, and University of Perpetual Help System DALTA.

Established in 1924, NCAA is the oldest collegiate athletic association in the country with its original members AdMU, De La Salle College, Institute of Accounts (now FEU), NU, San Beda, University of Manila, UP and UST.

UAAP was formed in 1938 when FEU, NU, UP, and UST left NCAA and became the original members of UAAP. Adamson and UE joined in 1952, followed by Ateneo in 1978 and DLSU in 1986.

Each UAAP school has its own moniker: Soaring Falcons for Adamson, Blue Eagles for Ateneo, Green Archers for DLSU, Tamaraws for FEU, Bulldogs for NU, Red Warriors for UE, Fighting Maroons for UP, and Growling Tigers for UST.

The monikers for NCAA schools are: Chiefs for Arellano, Knights for Letran, Blazers for CSB, Generals for EAC, Pirates for Lyceum, Cardinals for Mapua, Red Lions for San Beda, Golden Stags for San Sebastian, and Altas for Perpetual.

UAAP schools compete in 28 events from 15 sports to vie for the overall championship title.

First semester sports that run from August to December include athletics, badminton, basketball, beach volleyball, cheer dance, chess, E-sports, football, judo, swimming, table tennis, and taekwondo.

Second semester sports from January to May include baseball, fencing, softball, street dance, tennis, volleyball, and 3×3 basketball.

The NCAA schools compete in 14 sports: basketball, soccer, poomsae, swimming, taekwondo, track and field, chess, tennis (lawn and soft), table tennis, badminton, volleyball, and beach volleyball. The last three sporting events have a women’s division.

The colors of the UAAP members are green and maroon for UP, gold and white for UST, gold and green for FEU, gold and blue for NU, blue and white for Ateneo, green and white for DLSU, blue and white for Adamson, and red and white for UE.

The official colors of NCAA schools are: red, gold and black for Mapúa, blue and red for Letran, red and white for San Beda, blue and red for Arellano, red and gray for Lyceum, blue and yellow for JRU, red and white for EAC, maroon, gold and white for Perpetual, gold and red for San Sebastian, and green and white for CSB.

The theme for UAAP Season 88 is ‘Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,’ with UST as host, while NCAA Season 101 is ‘Building Greatness,’ with Mapúa as host.

The UAAP Season 88 logo features two interlocking number eights forming a flame at the center that represents passion, strength, and teamwork. The shared strokes between the two figures symbolize the unity among UAAP schools, while the flame captures the collective pursuit of excellence.

UAAP is hosted by UST for this Season 88, to be followed by FEU for next season, NU, Ateneo, DLSU, Adamson, UE and back again to Season 87 host UP.

UP used to be a founding member of the NCAA from 1924 until it withdrew in 1930 and later became a founding member of UAAP in 1938.

UP hosted UAAP 13 times for seasons 12 (1949-50), 16 (1953-54), 20 (1957-58), 26 (1963-64), 31 (1968-69), 36 (1973-74), 42 (1979-80), 46 (1983-84), 54 (1991-92), 62 (1999-2000), 71 (2008-09) 78 (2015-16) and 87 (2024-25).

UP teams that emerged champions for Season 87 are basketball and athletics in the men’s division, and badminton for women’s division, as well as street dance.

Three UP women athletes were awarded Most Valuable Players (MVP): Anthea Marie Gonzales for badminton, Nickole dela Cruz for softball, and Jufe Anne Cocoy for tennis.

Shan Clar was MVP for men’s badminton.

Three athletes from the UP Integrated School (UPIS) were also awarded MVP: Justine Hallare for boys’ basketball, Liv Abegail Florendo for girls’ swimming, and Rom Ivan Eguia for boys’ table tennis.

Season 87 is UP’s fourth championship title in Men’s Basketball, with their first title all the way back in 1939 (Season 2), then followed it up 47 years later in 1986 (Season 49), then 36 years later in 2022 (Season 84).

After the first round in UAAP Mens’ Basketball division, as of October 19, 2025, NU is on the top with 6 wins 1 loss, followed by UST (5 wins, 2 losses), UP (4 wins, 3 losses), DLSU (4-3), ADMU (4-3), AdU (3-4), FEU (2-5) and UE (0-7).

Peyups is the moniker of the University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 0917-5025808

The Commission on Audit (COA) has submitted four additional Fraud Audit Reports to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), exposing further irregularities in flood control projects managed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office.

These reports detail cases of mismatched sites, ghost projects, and the use of substandard materials, leading to significant public funds being misspent.

SYMS Construction Trading

Balagtas River Project (P46.35 million): Despite full payment, no real construction was found at the approved site. DPWH representatives directed COA to a different location where a structure made of unsuitable materials and exposed steel bars was observed. DPWH’s own records showed 0.00% completion.

Maycapiz-Taliptip River Project (P92.59 million): This project was reported as 100% accomplished and fully paid, yet COA found no flood control structure during inspection, labeling it a ‘ghost project.’

L.R. Tiqui Builders, Inc. and M3 Konstract Corporation (Joint Venture)

Barangay Piel, Baliuag Project (P96.50 million): Satellite imagery revealed an existing flood control structure at the approved site even before the contract began. DPWH pointed COA to an incorrect site, where an existing structure failed to meet project specifications.

DARCY and ANNA BUILDERS and TRADING

Barangay Carillo, Hagonoy Project (P74.11 million): Despite a supposed completion date of October 3, 2024, satellite images and COA’s inspection confirmed no structure was built at the approved site.

In all cases, DPWH-Bulacan 1st DEO failed to provide crucial supporting documents to COA, hindering validation of the projects.

Individuals Held Liable

Several individuals from DPWH-Bulacan 1st DEO have been identified as liable, including District Engineer Henry C. Alcantara, Assistant District Engineer Brice Ericson D. Hernandez, and Planning and Design Section Chief Ernesto C. Galang, along with various project engineers and company representatives from the involved contractors.

Those implicated may face charges under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Revised Penal Code for malversation and falsification of documents, and violations of COA Circular No. 2009-001 and the Government Procurement Reform Act.

These audit findings will support the ICI’s ongoing investigation into government infrastructure project irregularities. COA Chairperson Cordoba’s directive on August 12, 2025, initiated an immediate audit of all DPWH flood control projects in Bulacan from July 1, 2022, to May 30, 2025. This new batch of reports contributes to the 25 Fraud Audit Reports already submitted to oversight bodies, reinforcing COA’s commitment to transparency and protecting public funds, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for accountability. Additional reports are expected as the audit continues.

ONE of my key takeaways from attending the LEAP Summit recently in Kuching, Sarawak in Malaysia was clarity on the use of the term ‘MICE’ vis-à-vis ‘Business Events’ as a nomenclature for the industry.

‘LEAP’ is the acronym for ‘Legacy Events Advocacy Policy,’ a platform that ‘Business Events Sarawak’ (BE Sarawak) initiated to champion advocacy, partnerships and sustainable event policies. The LEAP Summit is part of BE Sarawak’s ‘Legacy 360: Business Events for a Sustainable Future’ framework, which I have wrote about in my previous columns.

The evolving terminology of the industry, from ‘MICE’ (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) to ‘Business Events,’ reflects more than a change in labels. It signifies a broader paradigm shift on how destinations conceptualize and communicate the real value of this dynamic sector.

For decades, MICE has served as the industry’s convenient shorthand, especially in the Philippines and other emerging markets. It came from a tourism-centered mindset, emphasizing event typologies, visitor arrivals and economic indicators such as spending and venue utilization. In its time, it effectively framed the industry as a key contributor to tourism receipts and destination marketing.

However, as the global landscape evolved, so did the understanding of what events can achieve. The term ‘business events,’ now widely used in advanced markets like Australia, Singapore and New Zealand, marks a shift toward a strategic, purpose-driven narrative. It recognizes that events are not merely gatherings, but platforms for knowledge exchange, innovation, collaboration and legacy creation. Here, success is measured, not just in numbers, but in impact on communities, industries and national development goals.

This conceptual evolution aligns with global priorities such as sustainability, education and economic diversification. As governments and industry leaders increasingly emphasize the knowledge economy, ‘business events’ better captures the sector’s role in fostering innovation ecosystems and advancing shared progress.

In this transition, associations play a pivotal role. As conveners of professionals, experts and thought leaders, associations are often the creators and custodians of business events that drive knowledge and capacity building within industries. Their meetings, congresses and summits go beyond tourism, but also serve as platforms for policy dialogue, professional development and collaboration. Associations thus exemplify how events can generate long-term social, intellectual and economic legacies, embodying the very essence of the business events paradigm.

In the Philippine context, retaining the ‘MICE’ label remains both practical and policy-consistent. The ‘Philippine MICE Roadmap 2018-2030,’ the country’s strategic framework for the sector, uses the term extensively and continues to guide its growth. Yet, local destinations such as Cebu, Iloilo and Boracay, are already incorporating sustainability, inclusivity and legacy-building into their event strategies, signaling an organic shift toward the business events mindset.

A phased, dual-usage approach, referring to the sector as ‘MICE/Business Events’ could bridge this evolution. It maintains local recognition while aligning with international best practices. Over time, as the industry matures and measures impact beyond attendance and revenue, ‘business events’ may naturally take precedence.

Ultimately, the shift from ‘MICE’ to ‘Business Events’ is more than semantics-it reflects an industry evolving from hosting events to creating value, from counting visitors to building legacies. For destinations like the Philippines, and for associations that bring people together with purpose, embracing this new language means embracing a new vision of impact and sustainability.

BingoPlus, having been a big supporter of the Philippine sports community, brought Filipino dreamers closer to their sports dream. Last October 15, Future Ace candidates had a world-class experience when they played with international and local professional golfers at the Asian Development Tour set to determine the final top three who will advance to the Future Ace Program.

The Asian Development Tour (ADT) is all about making a significant impact as it returns to the Philippines, sanctioned by the Asian Tour and known as the pathway for players to have a chance to join the Pro-Am competition hosted by International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus. The development tour is held to drive growth and create opportunities for both professional and amateur players.

The importance of partnerships in elevating the Asian Development Tour with BingoPlus and the International Series in the Philippines

‘It’s great to have such a strong partner on board,’ says Ken Kudo, the General Manager of ADT, who thanked the strong partnering collaboration between BingoPlus and the International Series and sees it as a game-changer to have brands come together for the tour. The collaboration between BingoPlus, the International Series, and the ADT has enabled the tour to increase the prize purse by 20%, raising it to $120,000, and add extra value with additional services such as a buffet lunch for players after the game, enhancing the overall tournament experience and giving importance to the commitment of BingoPlus and the BingoPlus Foundation in supporting not just the competition but also the well-being of the athletes.

‘It’s a very nice and well prepared na event by BingoPlus since sila yung presentor nito. Well organized kasi very planned lahat from transportation yung tee times namin on-time, and yeah, I think they did a really good job sa event na to,’ said Diego Salazar, a Future Ace candidate.

When asked about the role of partnerships, Kudo says ‘It’s everything, these partnerships are imperative for any event, to have partners that believe in the sport and believe in promoting the country from the eyeballs the events get and also growing the game. So without the partners, like BingoPlus and the BingoPlus Foundation, you wouldn’t be able to stage any events.’

The ADT Players Championship was played by a mix of key opinion leaders, influencers, professionals, and amateurs, all in preparation for the upcoming inaugural Pro-Am competition.

‘It’s really pleasant to be here for a change and to showcase the Philippines to our members,’ Kudo adds, with hopes for future events and continued development of the sport in the country.

Better opportunities

As talented Filipino golfers grew in number, the brand saw the possibility and created the Future Ace program to further strengthen the path of aspiring Filipino golfers closer to their dream. Last month BingoPlus picked 20 people who registered for the program, of whom the final three will be given a ?200,000 training fund, ?100,000 worth of golf equipment, and an opportunity to play with international players.

The brand aims to help and aid the future of golf in the country. In an interview with Ryan Tanco, a Future Ace participant said that this program will be of enormous help to other people, especially since golf is relatively pricey compared to other sports in the country. ‘It’s a good program that can help a lot of people because there’s a lot of people who in similar minds can’t really get into the sport in the sense that they can’t justify the expense of the equipment.’

Laeticia Lacerna, also a Future Ace participant, exclaimed how being able to see and play with professional golfers can help them improve and become better at the sport. ‘Being exposed to people or professionals and see how they play could help us with how we could be better at the sport, like we could learn from them based on experience.’

Future Ace Program’s final top three

After the 5-day social media voting and a series of golf activities held to determine the final top three, Diego Salazar, Sherra Gross, and Lea Macapagal secured the spots for the Future Ace program. Three of them showcased skills comparable to pro golfers that played with them side by side.

It’s a dream come true for them who looked forward to being included in the program. Diego said that this would help his game become more refined and controlled and give his career a chance to go even further. ‘I’ve been golfing for about two years na. I didn’t stop sa two years na yun, and I do think na with the help of coaching it could guide my game toward a more refined and controlled performance, especially 200K yung training budget. I think that would be very sufficient na for a really good and high-quality training.’

Lea also expressed how happy she was when she first heard that BingoPlus and the International Series would be hosting an event as grand as this. ‘I’m so happy when I’ve seen the post about the International Series and BingoPlus hosting this, because golf means so much for the Philippines,’ ‘I feel like there’s so many talented Filipinos who play golf. It’s just that they need someone who would boost them; they need something like BingoPlus to actually help them,’ she added.

In addition, BingoPlus extends the program to the final top five as the brand’s dedication to the Philippine sports community. Joan Guitierrez, who placed 4th, and Ethelenne Cinio, who placed 5th, will each receive ?50,000 worth of training budget.

While the Future Ace Program comes to an end, BingoPlus’ advocacy to help the Filipinos reach their dream starts anew. Rest assured that the brand will continue to develop more and better programs in the future.

The International Series Philippines presented by BingoPlus will have a four-day tournament on October 23-26. Watch golf legends play on October 23 and 24 for free. Get your tickets at SM Tickets online, and watch Filipino sports dreams turn into reality.

CARLOS YULO attempts to further cement his status as one of the world’s elite athletes as he shoots for the men’s floor exercise gold medal in the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta on Friday.

Yulo and the rest of the finalists in his pet event where he already won a world title, will be coming off a four-day rest from the qualifiers.

‘Of course rest and recovery of course is really important. That is non-negotiable, especially at this really high intensity level,’ said the Paris Olympic double gold medalist, whose stint here and the rest of the national team is backed by the Philippine Sports Commission.

The final is set at 2 p.m. (3 p.m. in Manila).

‘It also helps me to calm down. To compose my mental state and allows me to get focused once again in the competition when it is needed,’ added the ace gymnast, who will be the second athlete to perform after American Kameron Nelson.

Yulo was second in the qualifiers held over the weekend with a score of 14.566 points behind Briton Jake Jarman, who was tops with 14.700 and will be seventh entry on the mat, looming as the biggest threat to the Filipino campaigner.

The pint-sized Pinoy twister will be gunning for his second mint in the world meet after securing his first with a golden performance of 15.300 points, a personal best, in the 2019 edition held in Stuttgart, Germany.

‘Carlos is ready to go and he has prepared very well for the floor exercise. We made some improvement to his routine, and, if all goes well, we might land another gold medal at the world championships,’ said Australian coach Nedal Alyousef, who has been handling the national team since April.

Yulo will also eye his second vault gold in the world meet on the last day of the apparatus finals on Saturday, capping seven days of intense and exciting gymnastics action in the world’s biggest Muslim country.

He will aim to add a second to his collection to the initial one he won four years ago in the 40th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships held in Kitakyushu, Japan.

Keen on duplicating his golden pair in the same events at the Paris Olympics last year, Yulo is the top favorite in the floor exercise after ruling the qualifiers with a score of 14.750 points, with the main competition expected to come from Armenian Arthur Davtyan.

He will be the third athlete to perform while Davtyan, second to the Filipino with an output of 14.566 points in the qualifiers and was likewise the Paris Olympic silver medalist in the event, will be the eighth and last gymnast to compete.

Poomsae and teqball girls delivered on a busy Thursday afternoon to make up for the Philippine Team’s morning shortcomings in the Asian Youth Games.

Kristen Ambriel Aguila earned the silver medal in the girls’ individual recognized poomsae, getting nipped in the gold medal showdown by Iran’s Zeinab Shahriari, 8.86-8.60, at the Exhibition World Bahrain.

The girls’ doubles team of Crystal Cariño and Nicole Tabucol added to the Philippines’ medal haul by beating Bahrain’s Rawan Abdulaziz and Fatima Albanna, 10-12, 12-10, 14-12, in the bronze medal match at the convention center in Sakhir in the southern region of the kingdom.

The young girls’ performances raised the Philippines’ total to one gold, a silver and a bronze in the 45-nation sports conclave for rising sports stars-Kram Airam Carpio put the Philippines in the winners’ circle on Tuesday with a gold medal in Pencak Silat and has returned to a hero’s welcome in Manila on Thursday.

The Philippines is looking to surpass the two gold and three silver medals earned in the 2013 Nanjing AYG, the last time the sports event was held before the Bahrain Games.

Aguila, Cariño and Tabucol’s exploits was also a big boost after the disappointing result in boys’ triathlon, with Euan Arrow Ramos crashing out.

Aguila soars in taekwondo

Kristen Ambriel Aguila had two close finishes in the meet, squeaking through to the finale with a 118.4-118.1 victory over Yuqi Li of China in the round of four.

The 15-year-old Aguila, winner of two gold medals in the World Taekwondo Grand Slam Youth League in China last year, earlier defeated Datkaiym Aibekova of Kyrgyzstan in the quarterfinals after defeating Suha Rayefa Syeed of Bangladesh in the round-of-16.

It was not all celebration for the Philippine taekwondo team as Caleb Angelo Calde bowed to Iran’s Behdad Naghiee in the quarterfinals of the boys’ individual recognised poomsae.

Alfonzo Gabriel Tormon and Angel Lyn Yvainne Dacanay fell at the quarterfinal stage of the mixed pair, with Thailand’s Suchanang Injang and Nitikon Yimprasert advancing with a hairline 8.5000-8.4300 win.

Tecball girls make presence felt

Crystal Cariño and Nicole Tabucol of Pangasinan earned recognition on the international stage in teqball-which combines elements of football and table tennis, among others-after so-so performances as sepak takraw players.

Carino and Tabucol, who had never made it past regionals in sepak takraw, found their place in teqball and quickly made the country proud.

Added to the national squad only in a few months ago, the Filipinas from Ranao National High School in Bani, Pangasinan, proved their worth and fought back from a set down to complete the win.

Although inexperience showed as they seemed to chuck away early leads, including a three-point cushion in the first, Carino and Tabucol managed to hold on in the next two, limiting their errors by relying on safer shots than bold powerful strikes.

Arrow misses in triathlon

THE Philippines had a dismal start the morning following the opening ceremony on Wednesday night as neither triathlete registered an official time at the Sofitel Bahrain in the coastal town of Zallaq.

Euan Arrow Ramos had to be brought to the Bahrain Defense Force Hospital after suffering cuts and bruises all over, including his right arm and leg, after hitting the deck when his wheel clipped a cateye on a tight turn.

The 15-year-old Ramos came out of the water in ninth place and had closed in on the leaders during the bike stage when he apparently ran over a reflective road stud and crashed.

The cones had to be moved after several incidents, which slightly altered the course, but Triathlon Association of the Philippines secretary general Ting Joson said they can’t blame the results on these things.

‘It was unfortunate because Arrow is a strong triathlete and the boys prepared well. It’s unfortunate there was a cat eye on the path,’ Joson said.

Peter Sancho del Rosario also wound up on the bottom part of the 39-triathlete leaderboard, without an official clocking, after being disqualified due to an infraction at the second transition when he started removing his headgear before setting his bike on the rack.

China’s Li Yansong won in 27 minutes, 0.4 seconds. Kazakhstan’s Ramazan Ainegov finished in 27:11 for silver, and Korea’s Kang Woohyeon earned bronze in 27:13.

Mesmerizing opening ceremony

Harlyn Serneche of volleyball and boxer Leo Mhar Lobrido carried the Philippine flag during the lavish opening rites at the Exhibition World Bahrain late Wednesday night.

Bahrain came up with a captivating multimedia stage production, with superb performances by the local artists and mermerizing lighting effects as they welcomed the representatives of the 45 nations.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino commended Bahrain for the excellent hosting so far, from facilities to logistics, especially since it accepted the hosting rights only in December last year.

‘Bahrain has done well, despite the short preparation,’ Tolentino said.

‘Bahrain was the savior, because Uzbekistan was supposed to host this and they could not make it in time.’

Uzbekistan pulled out because the infrastructure-especially the Olympic Village and related facilities-would not be completed in time.

Uzbek officials asked for a one-year postponement, but the Olympic Council of Asia declined because the AYG serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal.

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is aligning its policies with the Marcos administration’s call for a modern fiscal and investment framework that attracts responsible capital while ensuring environmental protection and social equity, Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

Lotilla, who introduced President Marcos during the opening of Mining Philippines 2025 Conference and Exhibition at the Grand Hyatt Manila, said Marcos’ leadership and clear direction in advancing the responsible development of the country’s mineral resources is an effort that links economic transformation, energy security, sustainability, and climate resilience under the Bagong Pilipinas vision.

The signing into law of the enhanced fiscal regime for large-scale metallic mining has also answered decades-old calls for a fair, transparent, and efficient system, streamlining the disbursement of local government unit (LGU) shares from national wealth while strengthening accountability and revenue use, he said.

The DENR chief said a climate and ecosystem-based lens in evaluating mining projects has been adopted by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB).

‘We are recognizing that every intervention on the landscape affects water, biodiversity, and communities. This approach is strengthened by the development of the national natural geospatial database, which feeds into our Natural Capital Accounting System that was recently prescribed by Congress, and the establishment of the Water Resources Management Office within the DENR, ensuring that mining operations are aligned with the watershed protection and long-term climate adaptation goals,’ he said.

Meanwhile, he said the DENR is also streamlining permitting processes and modernizing the mineral resource data system, launching a government-led mineral mapping and inventory beginning in 2026, aligning the social development and management plan of mining companies with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDG), strengthening indigenous people’s participation in equitable benefit-sharing, and expanding the use of space-based monitoring to enhance mining and environmental compliance and transparency.

‘At the same time, the [Mines and] Geosciences Bureau Geohazard Mapping continues to provide timely guidance to both national and local government units and communities in safeguarding lives and property from climate and disaster-related risks,’ he added.

These reforms, he said, signal a new phase for Philippine mining where minerals are no longer viewed merely as commodities to extract, but as strategic assets for a clean energy future and inclusive progress.

‘As the world accelerates towards decarbonization, the demand for critical minerals will shape the next global economy. The Philippines must be ready not just to supply but to lead with responsibility and science-based governance,’ he said.

Lotilla said that under Marcos’ leadership, the country is now building the foundation of the future where the stewardship of natural wealth becomes a defining pillar of national strength and unity.

Finally, addressing conference participants, he urged the industry to join the government to reaffirm a shared commitment that mining in the Philippines will be responsible, resilient, and responsive to both people and planet.