Category: Business Mirror

A towering 46-foot-tall (14.02 meters) 3D-printed monument of National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal that is eyed to become the tallest in the world is set to be erected in Dapitan City in 2027.

With the Dapitan City government and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) joining forces, the monument, named ‘El Dapitanon,’ will portray the hero’s life during his exile in the city for four years from 1892 to 1896.

‘May [El Dapitanon] stand not only as a symbol of Rizal’s greatness, but also [as a] beacon of what Filipinos can achieve when science, technology, innovation, culture, and nation-building come together,’ Science Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said in his speech.

El Dapitanon, as described by the Dapitan government, will be the Rizal whom locals may have remembered: a teacher, physician, scientist, artist, and community worker.

In a statement by the city government during the groundbreaking for the monument, it said: ‘This does not place Rizal above Dapitan, but walking with it; and recognized as one who lived, worked, dreamed, and served among them.’

The DOST officials, led by Solidum, and Dapitan City Mayor Evelyn T. Uy, put the project into motion with a groundbreaking ceremony last August 13, during the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

The sculpture-model features Rizal in a forward stance, wearing simple ‘camisa de chino’ (traditional Chinese-Filipino undershirt) and plain trousers, while carrying ‘Mi Retiro [My Retreat],’ a poem he wrote during his exile.

Designed by Prof. Jose Manuel ‘Manolo’ Sicat of the University of the Philippines Diliman, El Dapitanon is sculpted in a 5-foot-and-4-inch model, which will serve as the basis for the 3D print statue.

The city government added: ‘He [Rizal as depicted by the statue] appears ready to take another step, undertake another task, solve another problem, and once again be of service.’

The DOST-Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) has yet to do a 3D-scan of the 5-foot sculpture for it to scale-up to almost comparable to a 4-story-high building once printed.

Through the Advanced Manufacturing Center of the DOST-MIRDC, the outer shell of Rizal’s figure will be made of 3D-printed acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate, a high-quality plastic reinforced with concrete and reinforcement bars.

‘[We will make the 3D printing of the statue portion by portion] from below, the outer shell around the steel structure will be filled with cement, then another layer will be created until it rises upwards,’ Engr. Robert O. Dizon, director of DOST-MIRDC, explained in Filipino.

Out of the 46-foot-high monument, Dizon said only the 26-foot Rizal statue with a bronze finish will be 3D-printed atop a 20-foot cement pedestal.

Similar technology was used on the ‘The Filipino Scientist’ Rizal monument at the DOST plaza in Bicutan, Taguig City, which sculpture model was also commissioned to Sicat.

‘This is an even bigger challenge, literally a bigger challenge, because what we had then [in Bicutan] was 12.5 feet [The Filipino Scientist statue]. Challenge accepted. We can easily do it [El Dapitanon],’ Dizon affirmed partly in Filipino.

A P9-million budget is allotted for the 3D printing, materials, and logistics of the monument, with the Dapitan City government shouldering the materials.

‘Hopefully, we will be launching this soon. One year is more than enough for us,’ Dizon said in his target to finish El Dapitanon in 2027.

The Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) is looking to develop more nutritious ready-to-eat food products that could be used in government disaster relief operations and meet the standards and requirements of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Salvador Serrano, DOST-FNRI Chief Science Research Specialist, said only a limited number of the institute’s food products currently qualify for inclusion in the DSWD’s Family Food Packs, as one of the key requirements being considered is a shelf life of at least two years.

‘It’s a challenge to our RandD to develop products that would last for at least two years,’ Serrano said partly in Filipino.

He noted that the products must have a sufficiently long shelf life because they are intended to be stored and deployed only when needed, particularly during disaster and emergency situations.

Among the products being considered for possible inclusion in the DSWD’s Family Food Packs is the FNRI’s Iron-Fortified Rice, which the institute is continuing to develop in partnership with the National Food Authority (NFA), the agency that supplies rice to the DSWD.

‘We need to discuss in detail with our institutional partners the feasibility to incorporate these products, especially the ready-to-eat food for disaster relief operations,’ Serrano said, noting the growing need for such products as disasters become more frequent and the number of beneficiaries of the school-based feeding program increases.

New food technologies, ready-to-eat products

The institute recently launched its newest food technologies, including a lineup of ready-to-eat products designed to provide greater nutritional value and variety while catering to Filipino taste preferences.

Among these are ChamPro+, a high-protein chocolate porridge; Nameaaat, a reduced-sodium chicken dish with an adobo-style flavor; and KAIN Na!, a savory fried rice meal with chicken and mixed vegetables. The products are intended to complement, rather than replace, existing emergency food packs by offering more nutritious and familiar meal options.

Champro+ provides 14 grams of protein per serving, which the institute said is comparable to the protein from two whole eggs and one egg white, or 50 grams of cooked chicken breast. It received a 7 out of 9 rating in sensory evaluation.

Nameaaat, meanwhile, contains 101 milligrams of sodium per serving, which DOST-FNRI said is four to five times lower than the sodium content of commonly distributed relief foods, such as sardines, corned beef and canned chicken. It ranked first in meaty flavor and overall liking in a preference test against two commercially available adobo-style canned chicken products.

KAIN Na! was developed as a ready-to-eat rice meal made from rice, chicken and mixed vegetables, providing carbohydrates as a source of energy while offering the familiarity of a home-cooked meal. It likewise received a 7 out of 9 rating in sensory evaluation.

EnerBisc is a biscuit intended to provide children with a convenient source of energy during both regular consumption and emergency situations.

DOST-FNRI said one serving can provide up to 25 percent of the recommended energy intake for children aged 6 to 9, while sensory evaluation gave the product an overall acceptability score of 8 out of 9.

Unlike some conventional relief biscuits that may have limited nutritional value or lower acceptability among children, EnerBisc uses locally available raw materials and common baking equipment, making it suitable for adoption by existing and new baked-product manufacturers.

The institute identified children and parents as its primary consumer market, while government agencies, such as the DSWD, were cited as potential institutional users for relief operations.

For consumers who need food that requires minimal preparation, DOST-FNRI also introduced Oricea Instant Iron-Fortified Rice and Maizea Ready-to-Cook Rice-Shaped White Corn Kernels.

Oricea can be prepared by adding hot water and is ready in about 5 minutes. A 30-gram serving provides 8 percent of the iron requirement of children aged 6 to 9, according to the institute.

Maizea, meanwhile, takes about three minutes to cook and was designed to resemble rice in appearance and consistency.

Both products received an average sensory evaluation score of 8 out of 9 and have a reported shelf life of up to 12 months, making them suitable for household storage, emergency supplies and retail distribution. Their estimated retail prices were placed at about P16 for Oricea and P21 for Maizea.

DOST-FNRI said the products could serve both everyday consumers and institutional markets, including schools, government agencies, supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores.

The institute also sees opportunities to work with government agencies, nongovernment organizations and humanitarian groups for disaster preparedness and relief operations.

The development of the products forms part of DOST-FNRI’s broader effort to translate food and nutrition research into technologies that can address malnutrition, improve food security and encourage healthier dietary choices.

The institute is seeking technology adopters and industry partners that can manufacture and bring the products to the market, with some technologies requiring specialized processing equipment such as retort systems to ensure shelf stability.

Through partnerships with manufacturers and other adopters, DOST-FNRI aims to move these technologies beyond research and development, and make nutritious, affordable and convenient food products more accessible to Filipino consumers.

San Juan City has launched a Futsal Development Program in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Football Federation (PFF).

The program will use the city’s existing indoor basketball courts, making use of facilities already available.

The PSC provided 20 sets of futsal goals and 120 balls for use by San Juan’s 21 barangays.

Around 125 children took part in futsal clinics conducted by Philippine women’s futsal team coach Rafaa Merino Rodriguez.

San Juan mayor Francis Zamora says the program could lead to inter-barangay tournaments.

PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio said the initiative could serve as a model for stronger grassroots sports programs through cooperation between the PSC, local government units and national sports associations.

‘This is what we want. LGUs collaborating with PSC and the NSA. Stronger partnerships mean stronger programs. If the PSC is willing to invest, we want the LGUs to invest as well. Collaboration is stronger when that’s the kind of commitment we have,’ Gregorio said.

In the April 2021 issue of the Philippines Graphic, around the 17th death anniversary of Nick Joaquin, the outlet’s esteemed literary editor Marra PL. Lanot penned a poignant tribute to her hero.

‘Have you ever basked in the presence of your idol?’ Lanot writes to open her piece, titled ‘Nick Joaquin: The twilight years.’

What follows is a moving chronicle of her friendship with the late National Artist for Literature, a titan turned close friend. She recounts submitting a poem to him at the Free Press as a nervous young writer, exploring metro spots ‘where music is all’ when they grew closer, and her son Kris weeping during Joaquin’s necrological service at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where friends honored the man she considers ‘the greatest Filipino writer in English.’

Lanot, of course, was also quite the wordsmith in her own right. An award-winning poet, essayist, and journalist, she published articles and columns in newspapers and magazines, and translated poems from English and Filipino into Spanish, just as her own poems have been translated and published abroad into foreign languages. She most recently served as the literary editor of the Philippines Graphic Reader, the companion literary magazine of the Philippines Graphic.

On August 16, Lanot wrote 30. She was 82.

Though the literary community mourns her passing, a fittingly poetic full-circle moment unfolded at the 2026 Nick Joaquin Literary Awards (NJLA). Years after writing that heartfelt tribute to her literary idol, Lanot was herself honored at the very event dedicated to his memory.

‘I know in my heart that Marra is here with us tonight,’ said T. Anthony C. Cabangon, publisher of Philippines Graphic and the BusinessMirror, during the 2026 NJLA at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City on August 27. ‘We offer the Nick Joaquin Literary Awards for you, Marra. Like the phoenix that rises above death and destruction, we rise and persist in spreading the written words of our literary writers to the Filipino people for generations to come.’

‘Poet, editor, writer… witch’

Much of the 2026 NJLA night of celebration was dedicated to the memorial tribute for Lanot. Her close friends and family took turns on stage to share their fondest memory with the beloved writer, who was described as a good friend and important figure for many writing careers.

‘She made you feel like your voice actually mattered,’ said Charo Joaquin-Villegas, niece of Nick Joaquin and a close family friend to Lanot. ‘Her legacy isn’t in what she wrote-it’s in all of us. She helped find our voice. Thank you, Marra.’

Charo’s husband, Bing, also reflected on Lanot’s life. He read Nick Joaquin’s foreword to her book, Déjà vu and Other Essays, where she was famously described as ‘a babaylan in kimona and Levi’s.’ Meanwhile, José María Fons Guardiola, Cultural Head of Instituto Cervantes de Manila, read a Spanish poem written by Lanot.

Veteran journalist Ceres Doyo and award-winning writer Neni Sta. Romana paid tributes as well, along with Sol Juvida, Rochit Tañedo, Paulynn Sicam, Joel Saracho, and Beverly ‘Bebang’ Sy. Also part of the fold were Philip Paraan, Seymour Barros Sanchez, Satur Ocampo, Gemma Nemenzo, Bobby Malay, and Dr. Jose Wendel Capili.

During his speech earlier in the evening, Cabangon announced the appointment of Susan Lara as the new literary editor of the Philippines Graphic Reader. Also the chair of the 2026 NJLA panel of judges, Lara paid homage to Lanot, whom she fondly called ‘the original witch.’

‘If you ever had the pleasure of receiving an email from her, you could not have failed to take note of her email handle-brujaja-spelled with a ‘J.’ That said a lot of things about her. She called herself ‘witch,’ and wore the title with pride. She could laugh at herself, and she embraced the Spanish language alongside English and Filipino.’

Lara noted that Lanot ‘grew up surrounded by words and music’-born to a writer-astrologer and a music teacher-and how she loved playing the piano, watching films, gardening, collecting stamps, swimming, ballroom dancing, and Elvis Presley.

The two first met in the ’80s, when Lanot and her husband, poet Pete Lacaba, gave a reading at the UP Faculty Center. From then on, their paths crossed at countless poetry events.

‘Her poetry achieved that balance where form and content perfectly matched-structure amplifying meaning, never sacrificing one for the other,’ Lara said. ‘Beyond her writing, she nurtured literature as editor: Philippines Graphic from 1998 to 2003; Mirror Weekly from 1995 to 1999; and Philippines Graphic Reader, from 2022 up to her last day on Earth.’

Lara also emphasized Lanot’s role in helping shape the NJLA, where the former had been judging since 2017, and the latter serving as a ‘guiding presence.’ It was July 24 when the last two spoke, Lara shared. They were deliberating the Poet of the Year award for the 2026 NJLA, and Lanot was asked to break a tie.

‘Marra, although already struggling to breathe, chose the poet who, to quote her, has ‘mastered the use of words with visual impact and depth of meaning.’ Even in frailty, her clarity and devotion to literature shone,’ Lara said. ‘Thank you, and bye for now, Marra-poet, editor, friend… witch. Thank you.’

Three-time NJLA Poet of the Year

Aside from the tribute to Lanot, the 2026 NJLA carried on its mission to recognize today’s exemplary Filipino literary writers with trophies, plaques, and cash prizes.

This year’s big winner was once again F. Jordan Carnice for his piece, ‘Three Poems Before 2025.’ It’s the Silliman University alumnus’ third time to win the prestigious award, following back-to-back victories in 2024 and 2023.

Meanwhile, winning first place in the Short Story Category was Jude Ortega for ‘The Decision,’ followed by Richard Giye’s ‘The Quiet Animal’ and Elvie Victonette B. Razon-Gonzales’ ‘Deliverance.’

The 2026 NJLA coincided with the 99th year of the Philippines Graphic, which serves as the ‘longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.’ In 1990, the outlet was revived under the vision of publisher Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua and editor-in-chief National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin.

‘For 36 years, the revived Philippines Graphic has helped in promoting and popularizing Philippine literature in English in the country,’ said Philippines Graphic president Benjamin V. Ramos. ‘In 2022, we decided to fine-tune this support by creating a dedicated magazine for short stories and poems written by new and veteran Filipino writers, which became the Philippines Graphic Reader.’

‘In consultation with Marra, we looped the precious works found in the Graphic Reader with the NJLA,’ he added. ‘Every published short story and poem became an entry to the NJLA. We did this to cement the relation between the art of writing and being recognized for writing.’

Thus, honored at this year’s NJLA were 81 Graphic Salute Awardees, whose short stories and poems saw the light of print in the Philippines Graphic Reader.

Meanwhile, the City of Sto. Tomas, Batangas, was conferred the LGU Champion for 2026 Award, accepted by Vice Mayor Catherine Jaurigue-Perez, while Biñan City, Laguna, was given the LGU Champion Award, accepted by Vice Mayor Dada Reyes. The recognitions were introduced in 2024 as part of the NJLA-Local Government Unit (LGU) Advocacy for English and Literature Project that seeks to ensure that the works of Filipino poets and short fictionists reach the youth.

‘Next year, the Philippines Graphic is one hundred years old,’ Ramos said. ‘Strong, solid, and true, the Graphic-with the Cabangon family- will continue to nurture the best and the brightest in Philippine literature in English.’

Heavy showers halted just in time, and the skies brought forth sunshine and warmth as Rex Orange County took the stage at the Mall of Asia Arena on the night of August 20, 2026, Thursday – his first Manila show in almost three years.

The British singer-songwriter, whose real name is Alexander James O’ Connor, had given fans a preview of the trip a day earlier, sharing on social media: ‘GUYS I’M IN THE MALL OF ASIA IN MANILA TRYNA NOT GET LOST…TOMORO I PLAY MY FIRST SHOW w THE BAND IN LIKE A YEAR N A HALF. EVERYTHING’S GREAT.’ since his last visit in October 2023, fans had been counting down to see him again – this time, in a much bigger venue.

Even before the doors opened, the anticipation outside the arena was its own kind of spectacle. Fans lined up early to secure their slots, especially those headed for the standing area, where prime spots are notoriously hard to get. Once inside, every time the LED screens flashed ‘Rex Orange County’, the crowd would holler and clap on cue – some fans, I noticed, were still busy making sure their phones were fully charged before he even stepped on stage.

Over October and Maki set the tone

Over October opened the night with a set that started calmly with ‘Dahan’ and built beautifully, closing out with ‘Ikot’ – a song the crowd knew word for word and swayed along to. It was my first time seeing them live, so a win is a win for me! What struck me most, though, was how great they actually sound in person – their band synergy is genuinely impressive, the kind that’s hard to appreciate fully until you’ve heard it live.

Maki came up next, and let’s just say: that man has pipes! Finding out he’d be one of the openers for Rex Orange County was already another personal win; my song wishlist practically wrote itself – ‘Kahel na Langit’, ‘Kailan’, ‘Saan’ all made an appearance. Maki also shared on stage that Alex (Rex Orange County) had inspired one of his songs, and spoke about how grateful he was to open for him.

Rex Orange County takes center stage

Rex Orange County opened his set with ‘Television’, and the crowd lost it. If you’ve spent any time on TikTok, you already know this one. It’s been all over everyone’s FYPs, spilling onto Instagram and Facebook, too.

‘Manila, what’s going on? My name is Rex Orange County. Are you ready to have a fantastic evening with me?’ he greeted the already hyped and hollering fans. Let me tell you something about Filipinos welcoming artists at concerts – it’s loud, and goosebumps will run all over you.

From there, Rex Orange County brought an electrifying energy to MOA Arena, and the fans gave it right back, twice over. His band matched him beat for beat – and yes, I’ll admit some bias here, but the trumpet and saxophone players were AMAZING. (pun intended)

A few moments later, the tender intro to ‘Pluto Projector’ began to play, and the arena glowed as fans switched their phone flashlights to an orange filter – the fan project called Project Sharmaine – turning the crowd into a visual that matched the song perfectly. From where I was sitting, it looked like a cosmos of orange, like stars shining brightly across the arena. He noticed and told everyone to ‘keep those lights on’.

Between songs, Alex took a moment to speak more personally to the crowd. He mentioned that this was only his second time in Manila, but that he would definitely be back – and that he’d see everyone again when he does, a promise that earned him some of the loudest cheers of the night.

Midway through the concert, I hit a very different kind of crisis: my phone flashed a storage-full warning, right as I was trying to capture more of the show. Qué horror! There I was, frantically deleting apps and old videos to free up space to keep filming – a very real reminder that some nights demand more storage than you think you’ll ever need.

Alex also had a few surprises up his sleeve for the Filipino fans present. He gave Manila an exclusive performance of ‘Belly (The Grass Stains)’, slipped the unreleased ‘Boyfriend’ into the mix, and brought ‘Take a Drive’ to the stage for its live debut. And in a moment that felt genuinely rare, he played ‘Indecision’, his new collaboration with Daniel Caesar, live for the first time (the song had only dropped a day before the Manila show).

A night to look back on

Right when ‘Happiness’ rang out, fans assumed that the night was over. Then the lights slowly went back on as Alex and his band came out for one final surprise: an encore of ‘4 Seasons’ and ‘Loving is Easy’, with the crowd chanting ‘Isa pa! Isa pa! Isa pa!’ so I insistently joked to my friend that they might break into Seventeen’s ‘Aju Nice’ next. (A running joke within Seventeen’s fandom, Carat)

I hadn’t even noticed it was nearing midnight until my eyes grew heavy – that’s how much energy he brought to the stage. He packed so many songs into one night, and somehow, it still didn’t feel enough.

Some concerts you watch. This one, you feel until you can’t anymore. Rex Orange County live in Manila will be a night I will be replaying for a while. Don’t change a thing, YOU ARE AMAZING, Rex Orange County. Manila is already awaiting your return.

For Filipinos, the arrival of the ‘Ber’ months can only mean one thing: Christmas is officially on its way. And while December may still be months away, Paseo Outlets is giving shoppers a head start with the return of its 9.9 Super Sale from September 18 to 20, 2026.

Now in its third year, the three-day mallwide event turns early Christmas shopping into an opportunity to get ahead of the crowds, secure gifts before stocks begin to run low, and enjoy even greater savings across more than a hundred premium international brands.

More savings on prices that are already lower

Paseo Outlets is already known for offering outlet prices all year round through its #OnSaleEveryDay promise. For the 9.9 Super Sale, participating stores are taking the savings even further, with extra markdowns, bundle deals, Buy-1-Get-1 (BOGO) offers, clearance finds and discounts of up to 70% or more on selected items.

With extra savings layered on top of already discounted outlet prices, shoppers can stretch their Christmas budget without having to scale down their gift list.

For fitness enthusiasts and sneakerheads, shop activewear, footwear and sports essentials from Nike Factory Store, Adidas Outlet, Puma Outlet, Under Armour Outlet, Speedo Outlet, Skechers Outlet, Anta Superstore and World Balance Outlet.

For the fashion-savvy, explore wardrobe staples and fashion finds from Levi’s Outlet Store, Giordano Outlet, Bench Depot (Cotton On, Pedro, Call It Spring), The Outlet (Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic), Tommy Hilfiger Outlet, Lacoste Outlet, MLB Outlet, 7Luxe and Fusion Outlet.

For those who are always on the go, find footwear, outdoor essentials and travel-ready picks from Timberland Outlet, Crocs Outlet, Payless Shoesource, Samsonite Outlet and Oakley Vault.

For accessory lovers, browse statement shades, watches and everyday finishing touches at Sunglass Haven, featuring brands such as Ray-Ban, Prada and Oakley, together with The Watch Store and Time Collection.

And for homebodies and design lovers, discover gifts and pieces for the home from Pottery Barn and West Elm.

Together, the curated selection of great finds makes it easier to tick off more names on the Christmas list in one trip, with something for just about everyone on your list.

A smarter start to Christmas shopping

Double-digit sales may have grown in popularity online, but at Paseo Outlets, the experience goes beyond clicking ‘add to cart.’ It’s a chance to shop the deals in person, take your time, and turn early Christmas shopping into a day out.

More importantly, its early Christmas-shopping timing gives shoppers something increasingly valuable during the holidays: time.

Buying gifts ahead of the peak Christmas season means fewer last-minute trips, less pressure to settle for whatever remains on the shelves, and one less task waiting when December traffic and crowded shopping centres arrive.

For organised gift-givers, families with long Christmas lists, and budget-conscious shoppers who still want recognisable premium brands under the tree, the 9.9 Super Sale offers a chance to prepare early while making every peso go further.

Make a day of it in the South

Set within a sprawling 15-hectare outdoor complex in Greenfield City, Santa Rosa, Laguna, Paseo Outlets brings together shopping with the kind of open-air experience that makes visitors want to stay beyond the checkout counter.

Its mix of retail, dining, green spaces and active recreation has helped transform the outlet centre into a lifestyle destination in its own right. Visitors from Laguna, nearby South Luzon communities and Metro Manila can pair their early Christmas shopping with a relaxed meal, a stroll outdoors or a weekend drive along the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay corridor.

That means the 9.9 Super Sale does not have to feel like another Christmas errand. Visitors can come for the deals, take their time exploring the outlets, and make a day of it with family and friends.

And for those already planning a Tagaytay trip, it may be worth leaving a little extra room in the itinerary-and in the car-for a few early Christmas finds.

Beat the rush before the rush begins

Christmas shopping has a way of becoming more hectic the longer it is postponed. Paseo Outlets’ 9.9 Super Sale is an invitation to get ahead of it all, while there are plenty of choices, before the holiday crowds arrive, and with even more savings to enjoy.

The Paseo Outlets 9.9 Super Sale runs from September 18 to 20, 2026, at Greenfield City, Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Road, Don Jose, Santa Rosa, Laguna.

For updates and participating offers, visit paseooutlets.com.ph or follow Paseo Outlets on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Shoppers may also join the Paseo Outlets Viber community for the latest announcements.

Matt Walker couldn’t pet a dog without sneezing-until he and other scientists used a gene editing technique to produce a hypoallergenic beagle named Bailey.

Now, he can feed Bailey spoons of peanut butter while she lies on his lap and play fetch with her in Central Park. His allergies didn’t go away: Bailey’s saliva and hair no longer contain a key allergy-causing protein.

‘The feeling right now is sort of a mix of relief and awe and gratitude that it worked,’ said Walker, a geneticist.

His company, Kindred Companion Sciences, created Bailey and her twin Alfie using a Nobel Prize-winning technique called CRISPR.

It’ll take years before the millions who suffer from dog-related allergies can walk into a pet store and buy a pooch like Alfie or Bailey.

Scientists have to monitor the long-term health effects of the genetic tweak, and find ways to commercialize the approach to make it affordable. And experts not involved with the effort say it could hurt shelter and rescue animals waiting to be adopted.

‘It opens the door to a lot more people being able to own pets. On the negative side, it may discourage people from trying to use strays and unwanted animals that are not engineered to be allergy-free,’ said bioethicist Arthur Caplan with New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine.

Researchers have tried to create hypoallergenic pets before, mostly using cloning. But this led to sicker pups that were too genetically similar.

Two years ago, researchers used CRISPR to reduce levels of an allergy-causing protein in a cat named Alsik. But it’s not yet clear whether this technique is safe to be tested on other cats.

Dogs that shed less, like poodles, are often thought of as hypoallergenic. But these pups still produce allergy-causing proteins that end up in their saliva, hair and dander, so they can still make people sniffly.

To create Alfie and Bailey, scientists started in the lab. They edited the genetic code inside dog skin cells, switching off the main gene responsible for producing allergy-causing proteins.

Then they transferred the edited genetic code into eggs that went into a beagle surrogate that gave birth to two healthy female pups in September 2024. Scientists tested their saliva and fur and didn’t find signs of the allergy-causing protein. They also performed an allergy test, pricking Walker’s skin with extracts from Alfie and Bailey’s saliva and dander. His skin reacted to samples from a poodle and goldendoodle, but not from the beagles.

The research, published Wednesday in the CRISPR Journal, is the first time such an approach has been tried successfully in dogs.

Walker says all dogs have the same allergy-causing gene that was edited in Alfie and Bailey.

Kindred Companion Sciences hopes to test the technique on other dogs and service animals to see if they can breed an allergy-free line of pups beyond beagles.

Future research should test the gene-edited hypoallergenic dogs on more people with pet allergies to be sure they can soothe symptoms across a broader swath of the human population, said Dr. Jeff SoRelle, a pathologist at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Since the switched-off gene is the main-but not the only-allergy-causing culprit in dogs that was tested, ‘we don’t exactly know just how effective or broadly useful this could be for stopping dog allergy in humans,’ said SoRelle, who had no role in the study.

Bailey lives with Walker in New York, and Alfie lives in Florida with another Kindred scientist. The edit made to their genes is rare but does occur naturally in some dogs, so Walker said it’s unlikely to have any negative effects on the pups.

But it will still be important to monitor them at routine vet visits and make sure they stay healthy.

Walker has had Bailey for a little over a year and says she’s become a member of the family.

Despite being a lifelong dog lover, his allergies kept him away from pups growing up. Even breeds that were supposed to be more hypoallergenic, like his family’s goldendoodle, gave him itchy eyes and painful rashes.

But he and Bailey can play tug-of-war together in his living room, and she snuggles at his feet to comfort him when he’s sick.

‘It feels just amazing to get to have a dog,’ Walker said.

Eternal Gardens will recognize individuals and organizations that have contributed to its growth over the past 50 years during Gabi ng Parangal on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila.

The event will be held on the birth anniversary of Eternal Gardens founder Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, adding significance to an evening dedicated to recognizing the people who have been part of the company’s journey since its establishment in 1976.

The recognition will begin with the people who helped establish the organization during its formative years. Pioneering Executives will be honored for their leadership in shaping Eternal Gardens’ early direction. At the same time, Pioneering Agents will be recognized for bringing its services to families and communities and for helping build its sales organization.

The company will also recognize Business Partners and City Mayors whose collaboration and support have contributed to Eternal Gardens’ presence in communities across the country.

The evening will also highlight the artistic contributions that have helped define the character of Eternal Gardens’ memorial parks. Distinguished Sculptors will be recognized for their works and contributions to the company.

Rounding out the recognition will be members of the Hall of Fame and Top League Managers, who will be honored for their achievements and leadership within the company’s sales organization.

The program will be hosted by Marissa Sanchez and will feature performances by singer Marco Sison and Himig Kabataan of the National Shrine of Saint Michael and the Archangels.

Himig Kabataan’s participation carries a connection to Cabangon Chua, who had a personal association with the National Shrine of Saint Michael and the Archangels. The group will perform during the evening’s program.

Eternal Gardens, established in 1976, is marking its Golden Anniversary this year through a series of activities celebrating its milestones and recognizing the individuals and organizations that have contributed to its development.

FOLLOWING the Ateneo Blue Eagles’ 83-70 win over the Mapua Cardinals in the quarterfinals of the Pinoyliga Cup, head coach Louie Alas told me, ‘Malayo pa. Marami pa kaming kailangan ayusin. [‘We still have a long way to go. There’s still a lot we need to fix.’

It wasn’t false modesty. It is what it is notwithstanding Ateneo being 3-0 in the tournament thus far.

Now this one against Mapua was a game of two halves.

The first half saw problems with execution and a penchant to commit a rash of turnovers in a hurry. Jared Bahay was having trouble quarterbacking in the first half (but he settled down in the second). Furthermore, I thought there was a lack of awareness in the full court press as Mapua pitched about eight Hail Mary passes in the first half. I don’t think I have ever seen that in the college game or even a National Football League match.

Bear in mind though that this team is cramming so all these struggles are normal.

What kept the Blue Eagles in the fight was their tough defense. As much as they struggled offensively, Mapua could not really pull away. As long as you get your stops, you are never out of the fight.

Ian Espinosa ran that offense well, but it was his position defense that was of note. Even when the taller Cardinals tried to back him into the post, the entry pass didn’t come. In fact, only once did Mapua score on a post up on Espinosa.

Having watched Ian since his Ateneo high days, he always played with a big heart. He could score some back then but is finding it tougher in the college ranks. I would rather that he stick that pull up jumper as opposed to driving in the lane which-in my opinion-often ends up not very well.

It was Kieffer Alas-and to an extent, Espinosa-and Grayson Rogers providing the scoring sock in the first half, but when Andrew Bongo, Shawn Tuano, Jared Bahay, EJ Kapihe, and Travis Roberts got going in the second half, Ateneo was tougher to beat.

In fact, in three matches thus far in the Pinoyliga, this was the most balanced in terms of scoring.

Alas led with 22 points. Roberts added 10 with Espinosa, Rogers, and Kapihe adding nine each. Bongo chipped in eight with Bahay and Rogers each netting eight points.

If the Blue Eagles want to be able to rack up some wins this coming University Athletic Association of the Philippines season, they will need Roberts to get untracked. But what a feathery jump shot he has.

Now, mark my words… the better grasp of the game Rogers has, he will be a huge difference maker.

More than the offense being spread around, the Blue Eagles had a 19-11 advantage in assists and outrebounded the Cardinals 41-27.

When the Blue Eagles began to jam the inbound pass, there went the Hail Marys.

Again, the second half adjustments worked.

When people tell me that this isn’t the finely tuned offense of Tab Baldwin, yes it isn’t. But remember, the Blue Eagles missed the Final Four two seasons running. So much for the offense. I like the fact, that they mix it up inside and will pound the ball in when need be.

The return of Bongo and Tuano after a two-week absence (with the 3×3 national team) was massive. The two are now veterans and having played for the national team gives them confidence, more exposure, and pride.

Tuano’s back-to-back triples were the backbreakers.

Let me go back to Louie Alas’ statement to me. Yep, malayo pa. But still, 3-0 and into the semis has to feel very good. Every win from OLFU to CSB and now, Mapua, there are facets of the game they are learning as a team.

In the first game, it was about settling down and putting up points. In the second, it was coming from behind. In this win, it was once more coming from behind but also nursing a lead. But throughout, it was playing team defense.

Now, imagine when they start to fire on all cylinders.

Five-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar was sent hurdling head-over-handlebars in a frightening crash that forced him to pull out of the Spanish Vuelta on Saturday.

The Slovenian suffered a concussion and broke two bones, one of which will require surgery, after he appeared to lose control when a stone came rolling across the road. ‘Tadej has been diagnosed with a concussion, displaced left clavicle fracture, a stable C7 cervical fracture, and multiple abrasions,’ UAE Team Emirates medical director Adrian Rotunno said.

‘Fortunately, no other major injuries and no neurological fallout. He will require clavicle surgery which will be delayed due to concussion precautions. Tadej remains under the care of our medical team and we’ll provide further updates following the surgery,’ Rotunno added.

Pogacar held a big lead in the Vuelta and was heavily favored to win the title to complete a hat trick of cycling’s three Grand Tours.

But he got caught in a crash about 33 kilometers from the finish of the eighth stage-he tried to get back on his bike but could not carry on and walked to an ambulance.

Race organizers confirmed he pulled out of the race.

Pogacar was attempting to become the ninth male rider to win all three Grand Tour races. Pogacar won the Tour de France for a third straight time and a record-tying fifth overall in July, and he claimed the Giro d’Italia win in 2024. He had not raced in the Vuelta since making his Grand Tour debut at the event in 2019.

TV footage showed Pogacar with cuts on his head as well as his left arm and shoulder. Pogacar swerved to his right, into other cyclists, as he appeared to try to avoid something in the road. The Tour de France champion lost control and flew over his handlebars, hitting his head and shoulder.

UAE Team Emirates sports manager Matxin Joxean Fernandez said after the stage that Pogacar had needed stitches in his eyebrow and elsewhere.

‘It’s no one’s responsibility…. It’s simply one of those things that happens in cycling, unfortunately,’ Fernandez said. ‘He initially wanted to keep going, but we saw he was in a lot of pain in his shoulder and decided he couldn’t continue. There isn’t much else to say.

‘After seven days Tadej was happy and it’s a very big shame for him, cycling is about good and bad and [we hope] Tadej recovers as soon as possible because hopefully it’s not something too bad, we’re not going to think about that right now but we’ll see what the doctor says.’

Pogacar-who had led since winning the opening stage-had an advantage of three minutes and 50 seconds over Enric Mas of Movistar before Saturday’s stage, which did not feature any major difficulty and offered sprinters a chance to shine along a flat 171-kilometer (106-mile) route from Puçol to Xeraco. Bryan Coquard, from the Cofidis team, claimed the stage win ahead of Mads Pedersen and Jordi Meeus.

Mas took the race leader’s jersey from Pogacar, becoming the first Spanish rider to lead the race since Jesus Herrada in 2018. Felix Gall stood second overall, 1:11 off the pace, with Primoz Roglic in third place.

The 31-year-old Mas did not put on the leader’s red jersey when he was presented with it in the post-race ceremony, instead just holding it up. He was also not wearing it in television interviews after the stage.

‘To get the red jersey thanks to a crash, it’s not a good feeling,’ he told Eurosport in translated comments. ‘We’ll try to defend it tomorrow but tonight we need to assimilate what happened and give Tadej all our support and hopefully he will recover soon. We decided with the team that I was not going to wear the red jersey [today] and then if I deserve it tomorrow, I will wear it.’

Mas was later fined 1,500 euros by the International Cycling Union for violating jersey ceremony protocols.

Pogacar’s main rival, Jonas Vingegaard, is not competing in the Vuelta after crashing during this year’s Tour de France.

This was Pocagar’s 10th Grand Tour and the first he has ever abandoned. He had never finished lower than third place.

The three-week race concludes in Granada on September 13.