Category: Business Mirror

Milkfish fry manual counting in local hatcheries is labor-intensive, inaccurate, inefficient, and consume long hours.

To improve the fry counting process, the M-eye Fry Counter, a technology utilizing machine vision and automation, is being developed through a project being implemented by the Metals Industry Research and Development Center of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-MIRDC).

Although the project is still in the research and development (RandD) phase, the team has designed and developed a working prototype and has already achieved significant accomplishments in providing a non-invasive, highly-accurate, faster, and cost-effective solution for counting milkfish fry.

Every year, the Philippines requires approximately 5 billion milkfish fry.

However, the project noted that existing manual counting methods remain labor-intensive and have limited operational efficiency and technological advancement in hatchery operations.

Imported fry-counting technologies are available, but they are often expensive and lack local technical support.

To address these challenges, DOST-MIRDC is implementing the project, ‘M-Eye Fry Counter: An Innovative Machine Vision-based Precision Fry Counting Solution to Streamline Milkfish Fry Distribution.’

Funded by the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), the project aims to design and develop a machine vision-based milkfish fry counter that will help streamline hatchery operations and improve counting accuracy.

The project has reported significant progress in the development and testing of the automated fry counting system. Through different series of testing, the prototype has achieved an accuracy rate of over 95 percent.

However, further refinements are still ongoing to achieve a better level of accuracy.

The project team said that accuracy evaluations were based on comparisons with manual counting methods, which can often result in errors that can affect the baseline reference used in evaluating system performance.

One of the key improvements observed in the updated versions of the system is the significant reduction in counting time, which demonstrates the M-Eye Fry Counter’s potential to enhance efficiency compared with traditional manual counting methods.

To further validate the reliability of the technology, additional stress tests and experimental trials will be conducted for its field testing.

The team is also exploring opportunities to reduce production costs, particularly through local fabrication and bulk manufacturing.

Despite these developments, the project still remains in the RandD stage. Further field validation across various milkfish-producing areas in the country is necessary to ensure the technology’s effectiveness, reliability, and adaptability under different hatchery conditions.

In line with its objective of automating fry counting, the project team emphasized that the technology is not intended to displace laborers.

Instead, it is expected to enhance operational efficiency by allowing farm workers and operators to focus on other essential hatchery and farm management tasks.

Foldable smartphones have come a long way in recent years. While users once questioned their durability and reliability, today’s innovations have transformed foldables into everyday productivity companions that are built to last.

Leading this evolution is the Oppo Find N6, a foldable smartphone engineered to withstand the demands of modern life without compromising on design, performance, or portability. Built around Oppo’s Armour Shield Architecture, the Find N6 combines aerospace-inspired engineering, industry-leading durability, and flagship innovations to prove that foldables can be just as dependable as they are sophisticated.

n Engineered to go further. At the heart of the Oppo Find N6 is its Armour Shield Architecture, an advanced structural design that reinforces the device using premium materials while maintaining an ultra-slim profile.

Despite its refined form factor and the industry’s thinnest bezels on a book-style foldable, the Oppo Find N6 is designed to withstand the realities of everyday use. Whether it’s navigating unpredictable weather, working outdoors, or simply enduring the wear and tear of daily commutes, the device delivers durability without sacrificing elegance.

Setting a new benchmark for foldable smartphones, the Oppo Find N6 carries IP56, IP58, and IP59 ratings, allowing it to withstand dust, water immersion, and even high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. From unexpected downpours to accidental spills and more demanding environments, users can stay productive with confidence knowing their device is built to handle more than everyday challenges.

n A foldable built for the long run. A foldable is only as reliable as its hinge, and Oppo has reimagined this critical component with the 2nd-Generation Titanium Flexion Hinge.

Manufactured using aerospace-grade titanium alloy, the hinge delivers greater strength while remaining remarkably lightweight. Together with Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass, it enables the industry’s first Zero-Feel Crease, creating a display that feels smooth and immersive whether you’re reviewing reports, reading documents, editing presentations, or watching videos.

The hinge is also certified to withstand one million folds, demonstrating the Find N6’s ability to support years of daily opening and closing without compromising performance. It’s an engineering milestone that reinforces the device’s position as one of the most dependable foldables available today.

The Oppo Find N6 is priced at ?139,999. Customers can also enjoy exclusive offers and freebies available for a limited time. Globe subscribers can avail of the Find N6 through GPlan 2499 with ?73,600 cashout, while Smart users can purchase the device under Smart Infinity Plan 5000, with exclusive benefits.

More information can be found at www.oppo.com/ph or Oppo Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

THE Philippines can be a regional leader in data sovereignty, but it must seize the opportunity swiftly and implement a decisive action to build its capabilities on data sovereignty.

‘Policy discussions around sovereignty are gaining momentum, and the recognition that digital control has become a strategic imperative reflects the right instincts,’ said Catherine Lian, general manager and technology leader of IBM Asean in an e-mail interview with BusinessMirror.

According to Lian, true digital sovereignty encompasses four interconnected pillars:

Data sovereignty: Control where data is stored and who can access it.

AI sovereignty: Operate AI under your organization’s authority and jurisdiction.

Operational sovereignty: Maintain control over strategic decisions while minimizing external influence while being accountable under regional jurisdictions who deliver transparency on data access, residency, and regulatory compliance.

Technology sovereignty: Retain choice and flexibility across all underlying infrastructure and technology.

Today, Lian said digital sovereignty is no longer just about where data resides. ‘It’s about whether we can prove who has access-do you have the freedom to move workloads, switch providers, even as technologies, regulations and risks evolve,’ she said.

The Philippines would benefit from a comprehensive approach that combines local infrastructure investment with hybrid-by-design cloud architectures, built-in AI governance frameworks, and talent development. IBM is committed to working with Philippine organizations and government institutions to ensure sovereignty becomes an operational reality that would drive sustainable digital independence and AI-driven growth.

In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), Lian said data sovereignty has become one of the most strategic decisions any nation can undertake. While digital infrastructure has become as critical to national security and economic growth as defense and finance, Lian said the Philippines prioritizes digital sovereignty quickly and robustly. ‘When critical systems run on platforms controlled elsewhere, organizations don’t truly have sovereignty, they have a service contract,’ she said.

At IBM, digital sovereignty is defined as the ability for organizations to demonstrate authority over and leverage technology on their own terms-maintaining control, transparency, and choice-while continuing to innovate at speed. ‘For the Philippines, this isn’t just about compliance. It’s about ensuring that technology and AI capabilities, talent, and economic opportunities benefit the country through trusted, locally governed systems that serve citizens and strengthen competitiveness,’ Lian said.

Gartner expects 65 percent of governments worldwide to introduce technological sovereignty requirements by 2028. Countries that act decisively now will have a first-mover advantage in attracting investment, protecting critical infrastructure, and innovating with AI in their own terms.

She said IBM believes that sovereignty must be intentional and engineered into technology from the start. Lian noted open ecosystems, hybrid by design deployment models (cloud, on prem, edge, fully air gapped), and built in AI governance give organizations the control and flexibility they need to innovate without dependence. Lian said the control and accountability model suits the Philippines because it addresses the core concern driving the country’s sovereignty push-not just where data resides but who controls it. Pure localization builds infrastructure ownership without necessarily delivering operational sovereignty. ‘On the other hand, full reliance on global platforms offers innovation and resilience but without jurisdictional control,’ she said.

She said IBM’s strategy is centered on collaborating with governments and enterprises in Asean to achieve meaningful digital sovereignty, ensuring they can innovate with AI on their own terms, while maintaining demonstrable authority over their systems, data, and operations. ‘This entails helping countries like the Philippines achieve their digital infrastructure ambitions with technology platforms, governance frameworks, and knowledge transfer that maximize long-term strategic value,’ Lian explained.

THERE is a new foldable in town as Samsung introduces the Galaxy Z Fold8, a wider but shorter version of its flagship foldable Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. There’s been a lot of interest in the Fold8 as BTS member j-hope, a Samsung ambassador, has been spotted holding it.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 brings dual 50MP rear cameras and 10MP front cameras on both displays. It runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy with a 4,800mAh battery. At just 201 g, Fold8 is Samsung’s lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet.

Samsung created the Galaxy Z Fold8 because the brand believes that different people want different things from their portable devices as AI becomes part of many people’s everyday lives.

When folded, the Z Fold 8’s 10:16 cover screen is comfortable for messaging, social updates, browsing, and short-form video. When unfolded, the 4:3 main display is larger. When rotated, the same display ratio is perfect for reading articles, e-books and long-form content.

Samsung’s Flex Titanium technology is used in the new foldables and this strengthens the durability of the screens and reduces the visibility of the crease on the inner screen. With up to 3,000 nits of brightness, Vision Booster and a low-reflection display finish, the main screen stays vivid and easy to see even in outdoor settings.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, which has the slimmest fold ever, is described as the ‘ultra foldable built for maximum productivity.’ It has a 200-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel wide camera, a 10-megapixel telephoto lens, and a screen that Samsung says ‘has been engineered from the inside out.’ The camera promises nice and crisp photos and videos. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor exclusive for Galaxy, the Z Fold8 Ultra also has a much larger battery capacity at 5,000 mAh. The foldable has hinge and magnetic optimization to lessen the pressure when you fold and unfold the device. This makes it easier for those with disabilities to use the phone.

Of course, foldables are about multitasking so when unfolded, the Z Fold8 Ultra lets you open three apps at the same time, two side by side on both screens and one at the bottom.

As part of its suite of Galaxy AI features, the new phones will have the proactive Now Nudge, which reminds you of appointments, calls, messages, or meetings that you might have missed or failed to see on your device.

Another new Galaxy AI feature is Gemini Notebooks, which turn photos, recordings, and documents into infographics, meeting minutes, and more.

The new foldables aim to create a more intelligent canvas for creativity with Photo Assist (makes sophisticated edits effortless and seamless), My FanCam (creates social-ready content without manual cropping), and Document Scan (detects edges and captures multiple pages easily).

At 180g with a thinness of 6.1mm, the Galaxy Z Flip8 is the lightest and thinnest Flip handset. It has an Advanced Armor Aluminum frame for durability and refined proportions, so it’s easier to hold and/or put in your pocket.

The new FlexWindow, upgraded Now Brief, and AI-powered automation offer ways to use the Flip8 without having to open it.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra comes in Violet Shadow, Cream, and Graphite with Green Shadow as an online exclusive.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 comes in Lavender, Cream, and Graphite with Pistachio as an online exclusive.

The Galaxy Z Flip8 comes in Pink, Cream, and Graphite with Mint as an online exclusive.

MARKING another step in its commitment to empower the next generation of learners, Globe has activated a new 5G network facility at Miriam College, strengthening mobile connectivity across the campus and supporting a more dynamic digital learning experience for students, faculty, and staff.

As technology continues to transform education, reliable connectivity has become essential to students’ learning, collaboration, research, and resource access. The newly activated facility enhances network coverage and capacity throughout the campus through Globe’s advanced 5G network, helping create a more seamless and productive environment for teaching, learning, and campus operations.

Beyond strengthening digital access, the partnership opens avenues for students to participate in Globe programs designed to build future-ready skills and leadership capabilities. Through initiatives focused on artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, digital content creation, volunteerism, internships, and grants, students can gain valuable experiences that complement their academic journey and prepare them for the evolving demands of the digital economy.

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to nurturing well-rounded learners by combining technology, innovation, and meaningful pathways for personal and professional growth.

‘Globe is proud to partner with Miriam College in this important step toward better connectivity and stronger digital support for the campus community,’ said Globe General Manager for Greater Manila Area Melchor Rebutica. ‘By activating this new 5G site, we are helping ensure that students, faculty, and administrators have the reliable connection they need for learning, collaboration, and innovation while also creating possibilities for young people to grow through Globe’s student programs that support skill-building, creativity, and future-ready careers.’

For the college, the initiative reinforces the institution’s commitment to providing students with an environment where technology enhances learning, creativity, and collaboration. The strengthened connectivity will help support academic excellence while enabling learners to take full advantage of moments that prepare them for the future.

‘Miriam College is committed to empowering students to become compassionate leaders and changemakers in an increasingly interconnected world,’ said Miriam College President Dr. Gina Lizares. ‘Through this partnership with Globe, we are strengthening the digital learning experience on campus while creating opportunities that encourage innovation, leadership, and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom.’

By bringing together digital infrastructure and student development initiatives, Globe and Miriam College are helping equip young people with the tools and experiences they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

AUSTRALIA on Wednesday urged countries such as the Philippines to help shape a stable and inclusive Indo-Pacific by strengthening partnerships, upholding international law and resisting the forces of strategic rivalry.

This was Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s reaffirmation of Canberra’s commitment to a rules-based regional order during her visit to Manila for the 59th Asean Foreign Ministerial Meetings.

At a foreign policy address at De La Salle University addressing an audience of diplomats, academics and students, Wong said Canberra sees both countries as ‘middle powers’ with the capacity to influence the region’s future, rather than simply respond to the actions of larger states. She said Australia seeks ‘a balance of power where no country dominates and no country is dominated,’ adding that: ‘We do not want any single power to set the terms around our future.’

Wong described Philippine-Australian relations as being at their ‘most dynamic,’ citing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The partnership spans defense, maritime security, cyber security, trade, investment and development cooperation.

Recalling Marcos Jr.’s reference to the shared values of bayanihan and Australian ‘mateship,’ the foreign minister said both concepts reflect relationships built through effort, shared sacrifice and collective responsibility.

She likewise underscored the importance of Asean centrality at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty, noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the ‘Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.’ Wong said the treaty remains a cornerstone of the regional architecture by committing states to mutual respect, territorial integrity, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the renunciation of the threat or use of force, and cooperation despite differences in history and national interests.

‘We are not to be defined by rivalry,’ she insisted, while urging countries to invest in partnerships ‘before crisis closes the door to cooperation.’

‘Not turn inward, but invest…’

WARNING that strategic competition has intensified across the Indo-Pacific, Wong said the risk of miscalculation is increasing as military capabilities expand while mechanisms for dialogue struggle to keep pace.

The Australian government official said the changing strategic landscape demands that countries resist the temptation to turn ‘inward and instead invest’ in stronger regional relationships and greater collective resilience.

Affirming Australia’s support for the rules-based international order, Wong described the 2016 South China Sea arbitral award as a landmark decision and reiterated Canberra’s longstanding support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or Unclos. She said Australia has consistently called for compliance with the ruling and stressed that respect for international law remains essential to preserving sovereignty, stability and the peaceful management of disputes.

The foreign minister also expressed concern over recent developments in the region, including China’s military build-up and missile launch, saying such actions underscore the need for greater transparency and clearer strategic intent to reduce the danger of miscalculation. Australia, she said, will continue to voice concerns over destabilizing conduct in the South China Sea while advocating the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law.

‘Aussie beef in bistek and caldereta’

REINFORCING regional maritime security, Wong announced that Australia will provide A$160 million over the next decade to expand maritime cooperation with Southeast Asian partners. The initiative includes enhanced maritime domain awareness, improved maritime governance and strengthened civilian maritime capabilities.

She also announced A$18 million in additional bilateral maritime assistance for the Philippines over four years and A$10 million to support drone technology and operator training for the Philippine Coast Guard.

Beyond security cooperation, Wong linked energy security directly to economic resilience, saying recent conflicts have exposed the vulnerability of global supply chains and underscored the importance of reliable access to fuel, fertilizer and food.

She noted Australia’s role as a major supplier of liquefied natural gas, agricultural products and beef to the region, joking that Australian beef often finds its way into Filipino favorites such as caldereta and bistek.

‘We share the region, we share the future,’ she said, emphasizing that regional prosperity depends on open trade and resilient supply chains.

Shaping the future with AI

WONG also outlined Australia’s efforts to deepen cooperation in emerging technologies, including a new artificial intelligence framework designed to capture AI’s economic opportunities while ensuring its safe and responsible use.

She said Australia hopes to work with Asean partners to shape the technology’s future collectively ‘rather than letting [it] shape the future,’ describing digital cooperation as another pillar of regional resilience.

Wong noted that Canberra was Asean’s first dialogue partner and has now been a Comprehensive Strategic Partner for five years. She said Australian ministers have made more than 140 visits to the member countries since the current government took office, while two-way regional trade has reached nearly A$200 billion.

Development cooperation, including the long-running ‘Australia Awards’ scholarship program, remains central to her country’s commitment to helping build stronger institutions and more resilient communities across the region, Wong added.

Australia, she concluded, is prepared to ‘lift and carry our share of the weight’ in addressing regional and global challenges alongside its Southeast Asian partners.

Kia Philippines, a subsidiary of ACMobility, marks a new chapter in sustainable travel with the return of a local automotive icon with the new Kia Sportage. Now in its fifth generation, the Sportage is one of the original pioneers of the compact SUV segment in the Philippines. Today, it evolves to embody the global ‘Kia Movement,’ blending its rich, trusted legacy with cutting-edge innovation, bold design, and eco-conscious technology for a new generation of Filipino drivers.

‘The Kia Sportage has occupied a special place in the hearts of Filipino motorists as a pioneer of the compact SUV segment,’ said Jay Lopez, Managing Director of Kia Philippines. ‘By moving forward with this new generation, we honor the Sportage’s rich heritage with a sustainable hybrid SUV that respects its roots while delivering the premium comfort and bold design modern drivers demand.’

A Legacy of Bold Design, Reborn

The new Kia Sportage pays homage to its history with a sophisticated aesthetic shaped by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. Up front, the Sportage combines tradition with innovation. The brand’s iconic Tiger Nose Grille, flanked by Kia’s Star-Map Signature LED headlights and projector foglights, establishes a bold and recognizable face. This sharp front fascia flows into a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that complements the stylish 18-inch alloy wheels, which come standard across all variants, ensuring a commanding and modern presence on the road. Moving to the rear, the Sportage’s Smart Power tailgate adds everyday utility and convenience while maintaining the SUV’s clean, modern lines.

Hybrid Performance Without Compromise

While the original Sportage won over Filipinos with its rugged dependability, the fifth-generation model introduces a new era of performance. The Sportage is powered by a cutting-edge 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid drivetrain paired with a 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery. This advanced system blends responsive turbocharged power with exceptional efficiency, generating an impressive combined system output of 235 PS and 367 Nm of torque, offering the perfect balance for both daily city commutes and long weekend getaways.

Innovative Comfort, Connectivity, and Safety

Inside, the Kia Sportage prioritizes space and connectivity with a premium cabin design anchored by a 12.3-inch LCD infotainment system that supports Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The vehicle ensures a refined experience with its premium leather seats, allowing occupants to enjoy their media through either a premium 6-speaker or an immersive 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, depending on the variant.

Safety remains paramount across the entire line-up. Driving confidence is enhanced by Kia DriveWise, the brand’s comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. Standard safety equipment across all variants includes cruise control, six airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. For advanced protection, the top-tier SX model features Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist.

Designed for the Drive, Priced for the Future

To cater to diverse lifestyle preferences, buyers can choose between two well-equipped variants. The versatile EX starts with an introductory price of Php 1,898,000 until the end of this month (regularly priced at Php 1,978,000). The premium, feature-packed SX starts at Php 2,098,000 with an optional two-tone interior for Php 2,128,000.

The new Kia Sportage is available in four color options: Heritage Blue, Wolf Grey, Snow White Pearl, and Gravity Grey. While the top-tier SX is available in all four colors, the EX variant is limited to Wolf Grey, Snow White Pearl, and Gravity Grey. Both variants also come with Kia’s 5-year or 160,000-kilometer vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty.

‘We invite Filipino drivers to step into the future with a vehicle that perfectly balances high performance and efficiency,’ said Lopez. ‘The new Kia Sportage is a bold statement of what modern mobility can be: smart, sophisticated, responsible, and truly embodying a Movement That Inspires.’

The new Kia Sportage is now available for sale at all Kia dealerships nationwide. Customers who want to experience the vehicle in person can catch its exclusive public display at SM Aura from July 24 to July 26, 2026.

Hours after a phone call with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s meetings in Manila, President Donald Trump ordered the imposition of a 12.5-percent tariff on nearly all Philippine products.

Washington alleged that the Philippines-along with 60 other economies-has inadequately enforced bans on goods produced by forced labor.

In a notice released Friday, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) said it completed its Section 301 investigation and, after reviewing public comments, testimony, recommendations from the Section 301 Committee and advisory committees, as well as the direction of the US President, determined that additional duties were warranted.

The USTR said a 12.5-percent tariff on Philippine products was the ‘appropriate response’ to what it described as actionable trade practices under Section 301 of the US Trade Act.

Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel ‘Babe’ Romualdez noted the new tariff rate is lower than the earlier 19-percent levy but said Manila will negotiate to bring it down further.

‘We are going to negotiate on the basis that we will remove the child-labor goods from our list of exports if it is proven to be so,’ Romualdez said. Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty is heading the team.

The additional duties took effect at 12:01 p.m. Philippine time on July 24. However, goods already loaded onto vessels before that time and entered for US consumption before 12:01 p.m. Philippine time on July 28 are exempt from the new tariff.

The decision came even as Philippine trade officials maintained throughout the investigation that forced labor is not prevalent in the country’s export sector.

In its formal submission to the USTR earlier this month, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said shipments denied entry into the US over forced-labor concerns totaled about $2.71 million, equivalent to roughly 0.01 percent of the $48.25 billion worth of Philippine goods imported by the US from 2023 through the first two months of 2026.

The DTI also argued that Philippine-made products, including exports bound for the US, ‘do not rely on forced labor,’ citing existing labor laws, enforcement mechanisms and trade data.

According to the USTR report, the tariffs cover all Philippine exports except steel, aluminum, copper, wood products, vehicles, and semiconductors.

Exemptions were also granted for civil aircraft, engines and parts, ground flight simulators, and pharmaceutical inputs. The USTR also added 471 products to the exemption list after public consultations, including:

Agriculture and food-instant coffee, planting seeds, livestock feed inputs, sugar products.

Critical minerals and metals-vanadium oxides, pig iron, aluminum and battery scrap.

Manufacturing and chemicals-semiconductor equipment, fertilizer/pesticide inputs, pharmaceutical ingredients.

Humanitarian and cultural goods-food, clothing, medicine donations, worn clothing, antiques, and works of art.

Categories

The USTR grouped the 60 economies slapped with tariffs under the Section 301 into three categories:

10 percent tariff economies-17 countries including India, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, and the UK, which have partial or reciprocal regimes.

MFN-cap economies-EU and Taiwan (10 percent cap); Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland (12.5 percent cap).

12.5 percent tariff economies-38 countries including the Asean countries Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam; BRICS economies Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa; other APEC members Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Hong Kong and Peru.

Disruptions

Exporters said they are now are preparing for possible disruptions to shipments and orders, with business groups warning that uncertainty could immediately affect trade even as the government continues discussions with Washington.

Country trade officials said talks with US authorities remain ongoing despite the tariff decision, expressing hope that the Philippines’s newly adopted Joint Administrative Order (JAO) on forced labor would support its position.

During a virtual press briefing on Friday, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said the government remains engaged with US authorities following Washington’s decision.

‘We are very much encouraged by the continued positive engagement of the US with respect to this particular issue, including the recent issuance by the Philippines of the JAO,’ Rodolfo said.

The JAO, signed by the Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI), Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Finance (DOF), establishes an interagency mechanism for investigating and prohibiting the importation of goods produced wholly or partly through forced labor.

DTI Export Marketing Bureau Director Bianca Pearl Sykimte said the JAO was not issued solely in response to the US investigation but also to protect domestic industries from unfair competition.

‘We issued the JAO because we subscribe to the principles of decent work. It also affects the competitiveness of our businesses when we allow or we don’t have a mechanism to stop the importation of goods from forced labour which tend to be cheaper,’ she said.

Business groups, however, said the tariff could create immediate uncertainty for exporters while awaiting further guidance on its implementation.

Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. President Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said buyers and manufacturers may delay transactions until they have greater clarity on the measure.

‘Of course, the buyers will hold. And the manufacturers and exporters will also hold out until they’re sure if their production will be bought or not. Unless they can find another market for it,’ Ortiz-Luis said in a phone interview.

‘So, of course, there’s a certain cost disruption in the supply chain. The uncertainty, until it’s all clarified who’s exempted and who’s not, it will have an effect immediately,’ he added.

Meanwhile, Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP) President Robert Young said the additional tariff further erodes the country’s price competitiveness, particularly for labor-intensive exports.

‘The 12.5 percent tariff imposed by US on Philippine exports is one more cross to bear in our free-on-board price quotations to buyers, especially in the garment and apparel sector,’ Young said.

He noted that Philippine products are already 10 to 15 percent more expensive than those of several ASEAN neighbors because of higher electricity, labor and logistics costs.

‘Therefore, we might end up losing purchase orders. Our sourcing strategies will be diverted. And eventually, export business to [the US] will come to a halt for the Philippines,’ he said.

GLOBE continues to strengthen its commitment to accessible and convenient connectivity services with the opening of a new Onsite Distribution Operations (OSDO) hub in Barangay Mahabang Parang, Angono, Rizal, bringing Globe At Home applications, prepaid products, and customer support closer to residents and nearby communities.

The new hub serves as a customer touchpoint to make Globe At Home services more accessible for households, students, remote workers, and small business owners who increasingly rely on stable internet connectivity for work, learning, communication, and daily digital activities.

Located in the ‘Art Capital of the Philippines,’ the Angono hub supports Globe’s broader initiative to expand community-based service hubs nationwide, enabling customers to conveniently access connectivity solutions within their own neighborhood.

‘We are expanding affordable internet services to as many households and communities as possible. As Filipinos continue to embrace digital lifestyles, it becomes even more important for Globe to bring our services closer to where our customers live and work,’ said Jil De Castro, territory business head at Globe.

‘Through hyper-localized hubs like the one in Angono, we are making broadband applications, prepaid services, and customer support more accessible while strengthening our connection with the communities we serve.’

The facility functions as the go-to area for Globe At Home applications, prepaid transactions, product inquiries, and customer engagement initiatives within Angono and other nearby Rizal communities.

By establishing more localized touchpoints nationwide, Globe aims to improve customer experience through faster assistance, greater convenience, and stronger grassroots engagement.

The Angono hub also reflects Globe At Home’s continuing efforts to expand its distribution footprint beyond major urban centers, ensuring that growing residential communities have easier access to reliable digital connectivity solutions.

With more community hubs set to open, Globe (www.globe.com.ph) strengthens digital inclusion by making connectivity more reliable and paves the way for the brand to participate in local community support programs including livelihood, disaster response, and digital education to Filipinos wherever they are.

VIOLENCE experienced at home and exclusion experienced in school can have a huge impact on adolescents’ education, well-being, and future opportunities, according to studies presented during the second session of the forum ‘Ugnayan: The Journey of Filipino Adolescents Across Past, Present, and Future.’

In a recent forum organized by government think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and the United Nations Population Fund, with support from the Australian government, the session examined how childhood and adolescent experiences shape long-term development outcomes.

Based on the Longitudinal Cohort Study of the Filipino Child (LCSFC), PIDS researchers found that children exposed to parental violence were significantly less likely to stay in school, while adolescents with diverse sexual orientations faced higher risks of domestic violence and bullying.

The study draws on data from the LCSFC, which follows about 5,000 Filipino children from age 10 in 2016 until they reach young adulthood in 2030, allowing researchers to examine how early experiences influence later transitions in education, health, employment, and family formation.

In expounding the discussions, PIDS senior research fellow Dr. Valerie Gilbert Ulep said experiences accumulated during childhood and adolescence influence present circumstances and future life outcomes. He said that ‘our future does not start today. It starts with our past.’

Family conditions, childhood safety, and early school experiences, he noted, shape educational attainment, well-being and ultimately, human capital formation.

Research findings

THE first study focused on risks within the home and their implications for children’s learning trajectories. According to PIDS senior research specialist Lyle Casas, 39.5 percent of children had experienced either physical or emotional violence from a parent at age 10.

Children exposed to parental violence had 57-percent lower odds of being enrolled in school by age 14, even after accounting for child, household, and earlier educational characteristics. Girls appeared particularly vulnerable, with exposure associated with 66 percent lower odds of matriculation, compared with 48 percent among boys.

‘Prior exposure to parental violence was associated with substantially lower odds of school enrollment years later,’ Casas said.

The second study examined experiences of violence differing among adolescents with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression (SOGIE). Presenting findings from a forthcoming PIDS discussion paper, Technical Specialist Aaron Manuel reported that adolescents with diverse sexual orientations had 1.7 times higher odds of experiencing domestic violence, as well as twice the odds of being bullied compared with peers, even after accounting for household, socioeconomic, and health-related factors.

‘Being lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, or queer significantly increases the odds of violence among Filipino adolescents,’ Manuel explained. ‘Exposure to violence shapes the trajectory of an entire life.’

According to Manuel, violence contributes to depression, anxiety, suicidal behavior, absenteeism, poor academic performance, and school dropout, ultimately affecting future employment and earning potential.

Stakeholders sound off

UNICEF Education Specialist Nicholas Tenazas emphasized that violence can create barriers to learning and development early in life, reinforcing the importance of timely interventions and supportive environments.

Meanwhile, UNFPA Gender and Gender-Based Violence Officer Jeanette Dulawan emphasized the long-term implications of adolescent experiences. She said: ‘What happens to children and adolescents today shapes who they become tomorrow.’

The Australian Embassy’s Second Secretary Claire Bowyer said Australia is committed to the endeavor, noting that research helps governments and development partners design inclusive interventions that improve learning, well-being, and life outcomes for young people.

For Dr. Ulep, the studies underscore the need to act before disadvantages become entrenched: ‘Children who grow up in supportive, safe, and nurturing environments are more likely to stay in school, build social connections, develop confidence, and acquire the skills needed to thrive.’