Category: Business Mirror

Let the people who know best about what they need decide on what projects should be implemented in their respective areas.

In the forthcoming 2026 General Appropriations Act and beyond, Senator Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero said this should be the guiding principle in proposing infrastructure projects, and their inclusion in the national budget, and in the release of funds for their implementation.

‘With the many problems with government infrastructure projects – including the substandard and ‘ghost’ flood control projects – there’s really a need to arrive at a sound solution so that tax payers’ money is not lost on anomalies,’ Escudero explained, partly in Filipino.

The veteran legislator explained that most, if not all, of the abuses committed with regard to the funding of infrastructure projects, are the result of the arbitrary moves of legislators, in connivance with officials in the Executive branch, to introduce items that never passed scrutiny at any point of the budget process.

‘This is the very issue being raised with regard to insertions in the budget,’ said Escudero, who noted that these projects came out of nowhere and were included in the national budget without anyone really knowing if they were feasible, needed or even real.

An examination of the General Appropriations Act (GAA) before 2025, alongside the examinations conducted by the Commission on Audit, would reveal the presence of ghost projects and other anomalies in the implementation of infrastructure projects.

Escudero has proposed a solution, one that is so simple and obvious that it would seem impossible that it has not been done before.

In the proposed Grassroots Infrastructure Planning and Budgeting Act filed by Escudero, all infrastructure projects must have prior endorsement of the Regional Development Council and either the Provincial Development Council or the City/Municipal Development Council and their respective Sanggunian before these are included in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) submitted by the President to Congress.

‘From the NEP [crafting phase] alone, no project that is not needed by the province or the country should be allowed to be included. Only the priority and really essential projects should be in the NEP,’ Escudero said, partly in Filipino.

‘The endorsement of our local government units is even more important for the projects pursued by lawmakers as an amendment – often included in the GAA or the final budget version that the President signs into law,’ he added.

The bill states that the prior endorsement of the RDCs and/or the local governing bodies is a requisite or condition sine qua non (absolutely indispensable) for the inclusion of any infrastructure project in the GAA and for the subsequent release of any allotment for its implementation.

‘If there is no endorsement or approval by the RDC, no money should be released by the DBM for any project,’ Escudero said. The senator from Bicol urged his colleagues in the Senate and the House of Representatives to prioritize the approval of this measure as it will address the issues that have been dominating the national conversation and strengthen the reforms that are being introduced with respect to the budget process.

FILIPINO inventors stand to gain more support in patenting and marketing their innovations under new initiatives announced by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications and Commercialization Napoleon Juanillo Jr. said the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) remains the agency’s main arm in helping innovators, scientists, and engineers secure patents and link with potential investors.

‘The DOST is aggressive in protecting intellectual property,’ Juanillo said in Filipino at a media forum on Tuesday. ‘TAPI’s mandate is to help our innovators secure protection for their work.’

The agency, he added, works closely with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) through what he described as a ‘superhighway’ for patents.

This is a faster process for filing and registering intellectual property, which he called vital in an era when ‘intellectual property is the new oil.’

Juanillo highlighted these efforts as part of Inno.Venta 2025, an upcoming showcase organized with Batangas State University to connect scientists and inventors with capitalists, venture builders, and banks.

The forum, he said, is meant to open conversations on what makes innovations attractive to investors and how research outputs can meet market demand.

‘These panels are a learning opportunity,’ he said. ‘Researchers need to see what the market demands, what investors look for, and how to size up opportunities.’

‘Innovation doesn’t only happen in the academe,’ he added. ‘A retired engineer or a young alumnus with a brilliant idea can just as well contribute to national development.’

The DOST also works with universities through its Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) Parks, with Batangas State University serving as the first government-designated KIST ecozone under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.

Juanillo described the parks as ‘high-tech marketplaces’ where new technologies can be displayed, tested, and linked to industries.

He said these initiatives form part of the department’s push to build a ‘culture of entrepreneurship’ among Filipino scientists.

‘Research shouldn’t stop in laboratories or remain on library shelves,’ he said. ‘As Secretary Solidum reminds us, science should be felt.’

Juanillo said the DOST is steering researchers toward fields identified in the country’s Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP), such as electronics and advanced manufacturing, agri-tech, renewable energy, climate resilience, artificial intelligence, and food processing.

‘Science, technology, and innovation should drive our industrial transformation,’ he said. ‘We’re showing our researchers where the future growth sectors lie.’

At a separate briefing during the 8th National Research and Development Conference, DOST Undersecretary Leah Buendia said only around 10 to 20 percent of government-funded research and development (R and D) projects have so far reached commercialization, noting that the path from research to market remains a long and complex process.

In a city where traditions are honored and where prosperity abounds, a rising 52-storey tower in the heart of Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, will have its full glory in the Second Quarter of 2027.

Ongpin Tower stands tall witnessing how the Filipino-Chinese weave their colorful history – from the traditional past to the exciting future – in the bustling district of Manila. The residential tower is the first and flagship project of Keen and Worth Property Developers, Inc.

‘Ongpin Tower fills a gap in Binondo’s residential market,’ beamed Kimberly Wong, Chief Operating Officer of Keen and Worth Property Developers. ‘Our aim is to build a meaningful home rooted in legacy, not just another development.’

LOCATION: PRIME CONSIDERATION

In urban settings, prime location is a rarity. The better location, the higher the market value the property is. And this is what makes Ongpin Tower a good investment.

It is located on a rare tri-corner lot at Ongpin, Gonzalo Puyat, and F. Torres Streets – a prime address that blends historical significance with real estate potential. Ongpin Tower is right smack in the middle of modern living where everything is within easy reach and access to schools, medical centers, churches and places of worship, shopping malls, and more. Whether you’re building your first investment or securing a permanent home for your growing family, this is a place designed to endure.

‘Our vision is to be the leading real estate developer in our location by staying customer-centric and delivering quality spaces that uplift communities.’

BUILT WITH PURPOSE

True to the company’s vision, Ongpin Tower embodies a rare harmony of timeless design and modern functionality. Each residence is thoughtfully appointed with high-quality fixtures, offering an elevated sense of ease, comfort, and exclusivity.

The tower stands as a testament to world-class living, having partnered with globally trusted brands renowned in premier property development.

Engineered with sophistication and privacy in mind, Ongpin Tower features a low-density layout-with only 7, 4, and 2 units per floor-creating a serene and exclusive atmosphere amid the vibrant heart of Binondo. Further reflecting its commitment to forward-thinking living, the development includes EV charging-ready parking spaces, ensuring residents are equipped for a sustainable future.

‘More than just a residential address, Ongpin Tower is designed for individuals and families who value legacy, location, and long-term investment,’ shared Wong. ‘It is a home built with purpose-one that honors the stories of the past while embracing the aspirations of the future.’

WHERE MODERNITY MEETS COMFORT

The modern design is anchored by Filipino-Chinese family values: space for togetherness, privacy when needed, and flexibility for every life stage.

Every home features elegant finishes, and practical layouts to complement with multigenerational living, highlighting three distinct collections – Residences, Estates, and Penthouse. This gives comfort that goes beyond your front door.

2-Bedroom Units: 99.66 – 111.75 sqm

3-Bedroom Units: 125.83 – 155.55 sqm

4-Bedroom Estates Units: 216.21 – 243.69 sqm

Penthouse Residences: 446.92 – 495.20 sqm

The 226-residential unit tower offers individuals or families the ease and comfort of modern-day living. Plus, giving them the peace of mind with all these curated amenities:

Rooftop helipad for urgent access

Sky Park and Rooftop garden with city views at 52nd floor

Resort-style infinity lap pool and jacuzzi

Gym, playground, and basketball court for family wellness

Multipurpose halls and lounges for community building and celebrations

Like a modern Filipino-Chinese patriarch, Ongpin Tower is wise, forward-thinking, family-oriented, and grounded in values. It truly reflects the Fil-Chinese who value their family, securing long-term investment for a better future. Apparently, Ongpin Tower’s topping off is set on December 6, 2025.

‘We prioritize delivering on time because we believe that trust is built on reliability,’ Wong quipped. ‘Whether for your family or your future, Ongpin Tower is an investment that is built to last.’

A LAWMAKER on Thursday filed a proposal aimed at establishing industry-based wage standards to eliminate unfair pay gaps among workers performing the same jobs in different regions.

Party-list Rep. Elijah San Fernando of Kamanggagawa filed House Bill 5678, or the Fair Industry Wages bill, to complement the National Minimum Wage bill (HB 94)-both designed to uphold living wages and wage justice.

‘Workers’ livelihoods should not depend on where they were born or where they live,’ San Fernando said. ‘Same work, same pay-not different wages just because of a zip code. Through industry-based wages, we align pay with the value of work, not location.’

San Fernando explained that both the Fair Industry Wages bill and the earlier-filed National Minimum Wage bill (HB 94) build on Kamanggagawa’s campaign for living wages and wage justice and are designed to complement one another.

‘While the National Minimum Wage bill sets the minimum rate, the Fair Industry Wages bill ensures that every industry builds upward from that floor: fairly, transparently, and based on real economic value. The existing regional wage mechanism locks provincial workers in low-wage cycles while prices and profits continue to soar. These bills seek to fix that,’ he said.

Under HB 5678, wage-setting authority will shift from regional wage boards to Industrial Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards (ITWPBs) organized per industry. Each board will be composed of representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), employers, and workers’ organizations within the same industry, ensuring a balanced and participatory approach to wage determination.

These boards will be tasked to formulate industry-specific minimum wage standards based on productivity, enterprise classification, and cost of living; recommend productivity-based incentive schemes to encourage fair wage progression; conduct periodic industry wage reviews to reflect inflation, sectoral growth, and profit trends; and ensure that no worker earns below the statutory national minimum wage, as set under HB 94.

The bill also mandates Dole, in consultation with Department of Planning, Economy and Development (DEPDev) and the Philippine Statistics Authority, to develop a National Wage and Productivity Index that serves as a data-driven basis for industry-level wage adjustments.

San Fernando said the measure will ‘create a fairer and more rational wage structure’ that rewards skill, productivity, and contribution, instead of being arbitrarily determined by location or political influence.

San Fernando also called for a national shift in how the country values labor: ‘The time has come to rebuild the economy around the dignity of work-not cheap labor, but just wages. True progress is not measured by stock market gains or GDP growth, but by whether workers can live decently from their labor.’

FOR the third consecutive year, volunteers from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) went hands-on for an impactful mangrove planting activity in Binictican, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales.

Held in celebration of the 47th Anniversary of the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) and the 13th Anniversary of the Samahan ng Mamamahayag ng Subic Bay Freeport (SMSF) on October 9, 2025, the initiative brought together volunteers from BCDA, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and Subic Bay locators who planted 200 native mangrove saplings.

With BCDA’s participation since 2023, this effort reflects its commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation as a vital part of building future-ready cities and resilient communities.

‘BCDA’s participation in projects like this reflects our long-term commitment to developing green cities that work in harmony with nature. Protecting mangrove ecosystems is essential to climate resilience and community well-being,’ said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. ‘Through collective action, we can ensure that the next generation inherits thriving environments and sustainable growth centers.’

Beyond serving as natural shields for our coastlines, mangrove forests help maintain marine species and preserve their habitat. Above the water, they filter pollutants, improve water quality, and act as carbon sinks. Mangroves also provide a natural cooling effect, supporting bird and wildlife habitats.

BCDA Officer-in-Charge Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Mark Torres led the BCDA team, along with SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño, the Subic Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aboitiz Power, Eco Protect, Balibago Waterworks System, Inc., and members of CLMA and SMSF.

‘For BCDA, this activity is part of our promise to build not only smart cities, but sustainable and livable communities. As we continue our projects across the island of Luzon, we know that true progress is only possible when we also take care of the environment that sustains us. This is our way of giving back – to nature and to future generations,’ Torres said.

Torres invited CLMA and SBMA to join BCDA’s future tree planting activities in Morong Discovery Park in the nearby Bataan, and New Clark City.

This initiative also reinforces BCDA’s vision of building green, sustainable, and resilient communities in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Singapore-based Pacific Light Power Pte. Ltd. (PLP), a subsidiary of Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen), has awarded an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract to Mitsubishi Power and Jurong Engineering Limited (JEL) to develop the largest, high-efficiency combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) facility in Singapore.

Located on Jurong Island, the 670-megawatt (MW) facility is scheduled to begin operations in 2029. It will be the first CCGT unit in Singapore integrated with a large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS). It will have the ability to operate on 30 percent hydrogen and will be capable of shifting to run entirely on hydrogen in future.

The new CCGT power plant will deploy Mitsubishi Power’s state-of-the-art M701JAC gas turbine with hydrogen co-firing potential, as the power sector works towards net zero carbon emissions. This gas turbine is recognized as the world’s most efficient large-frame gas turbine model, with more than 64 percent combined cycle efficiency and proven reliability through three million operational hours.

‘This project represents a significant leap forward in PacificLight’s decarbonization journey and our commitment to powering Singapore with cleaner, more resilient energy. By investing in large-scale energy storage and hydrogen-ready technology, we are future-proofing our infrastructure to meet future energy demands. We are proud to partner Mitsubishi Power and Jurong Engineering in advancing Singapore’s sustainable future for generations to come,’ said PLP CEO Yu Tat Ming.

Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., said its hydrogen-ready gas turbines, along with the innovative integration of BESS, contribute to future-proof infrastructure crucial to Singapore’s decarbonization goals.

‘Mitsubishi Power is honored to partner with JEL to build PLP’s monumental project that would support Singapore’s growing electricity needs and broader energy transition goals. We are committed to working alongside our partners to support this large-scale development that is making history in Singapore’s energy sector,’ said Mitsubishi Power Executive Vice President Daichi Nakajima.

PLP currently owns and operates an 830MW CCGT facility and a 100-MW Fast Start Ancillary Services facility on Jurong Island. The 830-MW CCGT facility is one of the most efficient and reliable combined cycle power plants currently operating in Singapore.

Mitsubishi Power has maintained a longstanding presence in Singapore, supporting the nation’s energy infrastructure by providing advanced power generation systems for CCGT power plants since the early 2000s.

Together with JEL, the consortium will have delivered two M701F gas turbines and a total of three M701JAC gas turbines, including those supplied for this latest project.

You have finally saved enough for that Ready For Occupancy (RFO) condo-a huge accomplishment! But then the hidden expense hits – parking. You did not factor in thousands more a month for rental fees, and street parking is out of the question due to the risk of towing or theft. The solution to this common urban dilemma is simple. Secure an RFO condo unit that includes a complimentary parking slot.

Buying an RFO condominium in Metro Manila is a strategic and advantageous move for those with the financial means. By acting now, you can take advantage of current promotions for immediate savings while also benefiting from the property’s long-term value appreciation. RFO units also eliminate the long waiting periods and construction uncertainties often associated with pre-selling properties.

Based on a recent market study, aggressive promotions for RFO units have been instrumental in stimulating the market. The same study indicated that people are becoming more interested in these units, and that is leading to more sales and leases. These promotions include significant discounts, flexible payment terms, waived fees, and rent-to-own options. The ultimate promotion, of course, is one that includes a free parking slot with the purchase of an RFO condo unit.

Smart investment

Married for two years, Gian and Michelle Santos were initially planning to buy a preselling condominium unit. They prefer to live in a condo because it is generally less expensive than a house and lot in the same location. This makes it a more accessible entry point into homeownership, especially for first-time buyers like Gian and Michelle. They also want to enjoy the amenities that condominiums offer, like swimming pools, gyms, and function rooms, which would be expensive or impossible to have in a private home.

However, instead of a pre-selling condo, they changed their minds, convinced by the benefits of purchasing an RFO unit. The next question is: What about parking?

Gian asked around and found out that monthly parking costs for condominiums typically fall in the range of P3,000 to P7,000. Moreover, parking slot prices in Metro Manila condominiums vary significantly, ranging from ?1.2 million to over ?3.5 million for a single slot, with older or higher-end units costing more.

In today’s competitive market, the combination of RFO and free parking signals maximum value. Choosing an RFO unit is a financially smart decision because it eliminates construction wait times, allows you to stop paying rent right away, and lets you begin building equity immediately.

The included free parking slot truly seals the deal, often saving buyers over a million pesos they would otherwise spend on a separate purchase. This massive saving immediately boosts the unit’s appraisal value. Indeed, this combination is designed for buyers ready to live-and invest-smarter.

For those focused purely on investment rather than immediate occupancy, this RFO unit with parking promotion remains a prize catch.

A dedicated, titled parking slot dramatically enhances your unit’s marketability in competitive city centers, leading to higher rental premiums and strong resale appeal. Units including parking are not only easier to rent but also secure a higher price when sold. This free parking slot effectively equips the investor with a high-value, high-demand amenity at zero acquisition cost, ensuring the asset is robust and ready for future market changes.

Convenience and Security

For busy urban professionals like Gian and Michelle, the biggest daily stress often is not just the commute; it is also the lack of reliable parking. An RFO condo with a complimentary parking slot offers immediate relief. You eliminate the wait for construction and the daily headache of finding and also paying for a secure parking spot. This combination delivers convenience and security for your vehicle.

‘Imagine a stress-free daily routine: you walk just a few steps to your dedicated parking spot, drive to work, and come home knowing a secure space is always waiting for your vehicle,’ says Gian.

After studying numerous properties from reputable developers, they found the ideal condominium unit to be their new home, and the good news is that the RFO unit comes with free parking.

New San Jose Builders, Inc. Free Parking Promo

Gian and Michelle work in Quezon City (QC), an area with a wide selection of condominium projects. Quezon City, the Philippines’ largest metropolis, is a top choice for vibrant urban living due to its excellent connectivity, diverse amenities, and bustling culture.

The couple were initially hesitant because they thought it would be too expensive to buy a condo unit in QC. They were glad to realize that exceptional quality in a city condominium doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

New San Jose Builders, Inc. (NSJBI) offers impressive yet affordable RFO options that deliver exceptional quality and are designed to perfectly fit the buyer’s needs and budget.

Established in 1986, NSJBI is a full-range property developer of quality projects – from high-rise mixed-use condominiums to prime subdivisions, hotels, offices, and malls.

For a limited time only, NSJBI is offering the ultimate deal: a free parking slot with the purchase of any RFO condo unit.

Explore RFO Condo Projects in Quezon City

NSJBI’s ready for occupancy condominium projects in QC include Victoria Sports Tower, Victoria Towers, and Victoria de Morato, each catering to a different lifestyle.

Pioneering the concept of sports-inspired condo living, Victoria Sports Tower is the country’s first condominium with a sports complex. Located on EDSA, this residential development offers a complete, health-focused lifestyle with state-of-the-art facilities. Residents can enjoy a main gym, private gym rooms, an indoor lap pool, jogging path, various indoor courts, MMA and boxing rings, and a bowling alley. The tower is also home to VS Hotel, Victoria Skin, and Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU).

Victoria Towers is strategically located at the corner of Timog and Panay Avenues, near two MRT stations (Quezon Avenue and GMA-Kamuning). Residents can easily walk to Quezon and West Avenues to access daily essentials. This RFO project consists of tri-towers over a retail podium and a connected extension building, with a hallway providing easy access to nearby commercial establishments and amenities.

Located at Scout Borromeo Street corner Tomas Morato, Victoria de Morato puts residents in the heart of a vibrant nightlife and entertainment hub. The condominium is near major media giants, top universities, hospitals like the Philippine Heart Center, and various event venues.

RFO Condo Projects in Makati and Manila City

For those looking for an RFO condo in Makati City, there’s Victoria de Makati. This well-planned NSJBI project is located on Washington corner De La Rosa and provides effortless access to workplaces, schools, government institutions, and top shopping malls.

Victoria de Makati offers a limited collection of one- to three-bedroom units, providing an intimate and upscale living experience in the heart of the city.

Manila is another top choice for location for prospective condo buyers. Manila, the Philippines’ historic capital, is a dynamic city that offers a unique fusion of culture and modernity. NSJBI offers quality and affordable living solutions in this bustling metropolis with Victoria de Manila 1.

Situated on Taft Avenue in the heart of the University Belt, Victoria de Manila 1 offers unparalleled access to the city’s leading universities, including De La Salle University and UP Manila.

Beyond being an ideal residence for students and professionals, Victoria de Manila 1 presents a lucrative investment opportunity. Its prime location ensures a steady stream of potential tenants, including local and international tourists.

Following in the footsteps of Gian and Michelle, you can seize this moment.

Purchase an RFO condo unit from NSJBI and instantly receive a free parking slot. Act now to take advantage of this limited-time offer and enjoy the quality, comfort, and convenience that define New San Jose Builders.

One school after another fell to the apparent bomb scare from a still unidentified prankster whose bomb threat sent ripples of concern from authorities in the last two days.

Four schools spread across the city evacuated their students for several hours as messages of planted bombs in their campuses were supposed to detonate soon after receiving the messages sent online, the police said, citing report from school authorities.

The first to receive the bomb message was the Davao Wisdom Academy along F. Torres in downtown Davao City, which received the message at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday from its official Facebook account. Police said it found no trace of a bomb and declared the campus safe by 11:44 a.m.

At 12:45 p.m., the Mintal Comprehensive Stand Alone Senior High School some 15 kilometers west of downtown received a chat message at its official Facebook account about a planted bomb inside the campus. School and police authorities evacuated the students and faculty. The school was declared safe by 2:10 pm.

On Thursday, the prank continued, this time, an online message was sent to Talomo National High School in Talomo, eight kilometers south of downtown. The message was sent at 7:30 a.m., according teacher Kristopher Glen Ultiano Uy.

Also at the same time, Grade 11 Head Teacher Junard Reyes of F. Bangoy Senior High School, nine kilometers north of downtown reported to police a co-teacher received an earlier message, at 7:08 a.m. on the same date, his co-teacher, Samantha Angela Bandigan Galigao, received a chat message of a planted bomb in the school.

Police deployed drone gadgets in all four incidents to monitor the school and its surroundings.

Police cybercrime operatives were yet to determine if only one or several pranksters were operating. The schools reported different account names of the pranksters. The Mintal school said the account sender used the name Kozo Wagner, while the Talomo sender used Dumpiie Dump and the Bangoy sender used Nako Dump.

City police spokesman, Captain Hazel Caballero Tuazon, has warned that pranksters and those making bomb jokes face prison terms and a fine of P40,000. Acting City Police Chief, Col. Mannan Muarip, has created an investigation group to identify and arrest them.

CHANELLE AVARICIO transformed disappointment into dominance at the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Apo Golf Classic with a commanding seven-stroke victory over Mafy Singson in Davao.

That despite carding a 73 in the final round on Thursday.

‘It feels great,’ said Avaricio, visibly exhaling a sigh of relief after bouncing back from a confidence-testing setback just a week ago at Del Monte. ‘Last week, I really fought but came up short. But I’m happy that I did well enough to win this one.’

Avaricio finished with a three-under 213 and pocketed the top purse of P117,000 to erase the stigma of that crushing defeat at Del Monte where she faltered down the stretch and lost to Sarah Ababa in sudden death.

‘This win means a lot, the same as all my other wins in the past. It feels great,’ she said, smiling as she reflected on her consistent drive to improve.

With an opening-round 72 that gave her a narrow one-shot edge over Singson, Avaricio shifted into high gear in Round 2 with a clinical 68 to widen her lead to eight strokes over Princess Superal.

Singson, who stumbled with a second-round 79 that left her 10 strokes behind, mounted an early charge in the final round with two birdies in the first three holes to pose a strong threat, but this time, Avaricio held sway.

Avaricio extended her lead with a birdie on the sixth but faltered with bogeys on Nos. 9, 11 and 12, while Singson failed to capitalize on her hot start and settled for 12 straight pars before rediscovering her touch with birdies on Nos. 16 and 18 to card a solid 68.

Singson’s late surge earned her a runner-up finish at 220, worth P82,000.

Superal also struggled with bogeys at Nos. 3 and 4 before trading two birdies with two more bogeys the rest of the way for a 74-she finished third at 222 and took home P65,000.

Florence Bisera and Daniella Uy matched 74s to share fourth place at 223, Harmie Constantino turned in a second straight 72 to tie for sixth with Marvi Monsalve, who shot a 74, at 225, and Pamela Mariano faltered with a 76 and wound up eighth at 226.

Martina Miñoza put in a 74 for ninth at 227, while Ababa-last year’s champion and fresh off a come-from-behind victory at Del Monte-struggled with a 76 to finish a disappointing 10th at 228 in the P1 million championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.

The steady decline in the number of Philippine exporters over recent years is a troubling trend that requires immediate attention. With the number of businesses engaged in global trade dropping from over 6,000 to around 4,000, the implications stretch far beyond mere statistics. This decline threatens the livelihoods of many Filipinos and undermines the country’s potential for economic growth in an increasingly competitive global market.

The factors contributing to this decline are multifaceted. Inadequate budgets, shifting priorities towards the domestic market, and the uncertainty created by protectionist policies-such as the tariffs imposed by the United States-have all played a significant role. As Philippine Exporters Confederation Vice President Ma. Flordeliza C. Leong aptly noted, ‘Those with very small margins. are directly hit by tariffs and wages.’ The burden of high operational costs is forcing many exporters to reconsider their business models or abandon the export market altogether.

Government action is required to confront these challenges head-on. While some officials have pointed to a shift towards domestic markets as a viable strategy, this overlooks the urgency of maintaining a robust export sector. The data from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Export Marketing Bureau reveals a troubling trend: the number of exporters has not only dwindled but has also stagnated, especially in sectors like food, where the lack of supply has become a critical issue.

Moreover, the competitive landscape for exporters has intensified, with rivals in other countries diversifying their products and markets at a pace that Philippine exporters are struggling to match. As Leong highlighted, diversification is not just a strategy; it is a necessity for survival in today’s global economy. However, the lack of financial resources hampers small exporters from investing in product development and market intelligence, leaving them vulnerable and ill-equipped to adapt.

The recent Senate hearing, where Senator Imee Marcos pressed trade officials on immediate solutions, underscores the urgency of this situation. The bureaucratic response appears slow and insufficient in addressing the immediate crisis facing thousands of workers and their families. While strengthening the domestic market is essential, it cannot replace the need for a vibrant export sector that contributes significantly to the national economy.

The call for government intervention is clear: there is a pressing need for targeted support for exporters. This includes financial assistance, investment in infrastructure, and the elimination of unnecessary fees that burden businesses. The playing field is not level-while exporters in other countries receive subsidies, Philippine exporters are left to navigate a challenging environment without similar support.

The export sector is a vital engine for economic growth, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. Its steady erosion is a flashing red light for the nation’s economic ambitions. It signals weakening competitiveness, vulnerability to external pressures, and a failure to adequately support a vital economic engine. The loss of over 2,000 exporters represents thousands of lost jobs, diminished national income, and a shrinking footprint in the global economy.

Our exporters are hemorrhaging, and time is running out. Well-intentioned advice to pivot is insufficient; they require immediate and substantial support. It would do well for the government to act decisively with concrete, well-funded interventions to prevent the collapse of our export sector, which would devastate jobs and cripple our economy.