Category: Business Mirror

THE Central Bank is looking at a 5.5 to 6.5 percent inflation forecast range for August as it gauges how recent weather disturbances alongside the elevated fuel costs weighed on the prices of food.

In a statement on Friday, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said it projects August 2026 inflation to settle within the range of 5.5 to 6.5 percent.

‘Upward price pressures for the month are likely to be driven by higher rice, vegetable, fruit, and fish prices, partly due to unfavorable weather conditions, and elevated domestic fuel costs,’ the BSP said.

However, the central bank explained that upward pressures are expected to be mitigated by lower prices of meat, as well as lower electricity rates and the peso appreciation.

For this year, this is the third straight month that the central bank pegged a wider-than-usual month-ahead inflation forecast range, with the lower and upper bound of the range having a 1-percentage-point difference.

Should inflation in August hit the lower end of the range or 5.5 percent, it would mean that the increase in the prices of goods and services eased to the slowest in five months or since March 2026.

However, if inflation shoots up to the upper end of the Central Bank’s forecast range at 6.5 percent, this would have marked the end of inflation’s downtrend, particularly the highest reading in three months or since May 2026 when inflation was at 6.8 percent.

Moving forward, the central bank said it ‘will remain vigilant and guided by incoming data, particularly on inflation and growth prospects.’

‘It will continue to assess the impact of latest developments in the Middle East and recent weather disturbances on the country’s inflation and economic outlook,’ the BSP also noted.

Inflation has eased for the third straight month in July at 6.2 percent.

The downtrend started after it eased from the 7.2 percent peak in April to 6.8 percent in May, slowing further to 6.4 percent in June.

Sought for comment last month, Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera explained to the BusinessMirror that a wider forecast range ‘suggests greater uncertainty around the inflation outlook.’

For this year, these were the BSP’s month-ahead inflation forecasts: January, 1.4 to 2.2 percent; February, 2.3 to 3.1 percent; March, 3.1 to 3.9 percent; April, 5.6 to 6.4 percent; May, 7.1 to 7.9; June, 6 to 7 percent, and July 5.6 to 6.6 percent.

The actual headline inflation rates for this year were the following: January, 2 percent ; February, 2.4 percent; March, 4.1 percent; April, 7.2 percent; May, 6.8 percent; June, 6.4 percent; and 6.2 percent in July, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed.

During its August 27 monetary policy meeting, the Monetary Board, the highest policy-making body of the BSP, revised downwards its inflation forecast for 2026 to 6.1 percent from its 6.4 percent forecast during its June 18 policy meeting.

However, it raised its inflation forecast to 5.4 percent for 2027, compared to the 4.5 percent forecast last June 18.

BSP Assistant Governor for Monetary Policy Sub-Sector Rogelio V. Mercado Jr. said: ‘The 6.1-percent inflation is of course driven by lower-than-expected inflation in June and July, as well as declining oil prices. This would be partly offset by the impact of El Niño on rice prices in the fourth quarter.’

Malacañang on Wednesday assured senior citizens that their government benefits due would not be unnecessarily delayed.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the National Commission for Senior Citizens (NCSC) to immediately distribute the P10,000 cash gift to qualified senior citizens who are beneficiaries under the Expanded Centenarians Act.

Under the Expanded Centenarians Act (Republic Act No. 11982), all Filipino senior citizens reaching the milestone ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95 years old are entitled to a P10,000 cash gift.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that the President, upon learning of the complaints filed with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, directed responsible agencies to address the delays without pause.

Eight Quezon City senior citizens on August 24 filed anti-red tape cases against the National Commission of Senior Citizens over delays in the release of P10,000 cash gifts they are entitled to for reaching milestone ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95.

In complaints filed before the Anti-Red Tape Authority, the eight senior citizens, with ages from 80 to 85 and residents of Barangay Marilag, aired serious concerns over the long delays, saying that they do not want to suffer the same fate as some of their friends who died without receiving their cash gifts.

Castro assured all Filipino senior citizens that the government will carry out the directives and address the issue immediately.

‘Ito po ay nakarating sa Pangulo at kailangan po talaga maibigay kung ano ang benepisyo na dapat ibigay sa ating mga elderlies lalung-lalo na iyong mga senior citizens dahil iyan naman po ay talagang kailangang maipaabot sa kanila nang mas mabilis at sa mabilis na pamamaraan (The issue has reached the President, and the benefits due to our elderly, particularly senior citizens, must really be delivered to them more quickly and promptly),’ Castro said in a Palace briefing.

Castro said ARTA endorsed the complaints to the Committee on Anti-Red Tape of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) on August 25.

A clarificatory meeting among ARTA, NCSC, concerned local government units, and the complaining senior citizens is scheduled on August 28.

‘Assistance should be provided on time and should not be unnecessarily delayed,’ Castro said.

Casino Plus, one of the country’s leading responsible digital entertainment platforms licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), turned Davao Whisky Park into one of the liveliest hubs of Kadayawan 2026 on Friday night, as social media star and digital content creator Zeinab Harake Parks brought her signature energy to an electric crowd of nearly 2,000 attendees for an evening of games, prizes, and entertainment.

Welcomed by the deafening cheers of hundreds of ‘Zebbies,’ her devoted fanbase, Zeinab Harake Parks took the stage and greeted the crowd with an enthusiastic ‘Maayong gabi sa inyong tanan!’ Marking her first time experiencing the Kadayawan Festival and her second visit to Davao since filming a vlog in the city in 2020. Zeinab celebrated alongside the community until midnight. True to her word and aligned with Casino Plus’s core mission to ‘bring fun to people,’ she delivered non-stop entertainment as fans repeatedly chanted ‘Arat na, Zeinab!’ throughout the park.

Embracing her moniker as social media’s ‘Reyna ng Good Vibes,’ she enthusiastically engaged the crowd posing for group selfies from the stage, on-ground, filming on-the-spot TikTok videos with five lucky meet-and-greet winners, and praising the overwhelming warmth of the Davaoeño community, noting that true beauty radiates from having a good, generous heart.

Zeinab also highlighted what she values most about partnering with Casino Plus, emphasizing how the platform has allowed her to connect with communities nationwide:

‘I get to explore every city sa Philippines. Ngayon, andito ako sa Davao. Looking forward pa ako sa ibang cities and provinces para sa Casino Plus event. Excited pa ako sa maraming-marami pang provinces,’ she shared.

The high-energy activation gave festivalgoers the chance to try Hantak-themed games, alongside complimentary refreshments, creator appearances, and hourly raffle draws that sent attendees home with premium tech, including AirPods 4, JBL speakers, and an iPad.

The social media star also invited audience members on stage for a viral TikTok dance-off, where winners took home ?10,000 cash prizes courtesy of Casino Plus. Zeinab, meanwhile, personally handed out ?5,000 in cash consolation prizes to the remaining participants. Despite the friendly competition, the contestants helped one another remember viral TikTok dances-a heartwarming display of camaraderie that she noted proves Davao City is truly one of the friendliest cities in the Philippines.

‘Ang galing nila, hindi sila nate-threaten! Kahit magkalaban sila, nag-agree,’ Harake-Parks quipped, after one contestant happily confirmed to the crowd that her rivals had nailed the dance routine.

For many attendees, the event served as a major highlight of their Kadayawan celebration. Anthony and Zara, a couple who traveled from Manila specifically to join the festivities and see Zeinab in person, expressed their excitement:

‘Masaya! Sobrang saya. Pati ‘yung mga booths, lalong-lalo na ‘yung mga games, ang ganda. Siya rin ‘yung reason bakit kami nandito,’ Anthony said. ‘Enjoy dito kasi napakaraming prizes!’ Zara added.

International residents also joined in the festivities. Yuri, a Russian expatriate living in Davao City, took part in the games and walked away with consolation prizes. ‘I really enjoyed it!’ he said.

The Casino Plus Kadayawan activation highlights how bringing Filipino cultural gaming traditions and modern entertainment together on one stage creates meaningful, shared experiences for fans, festivalgoers, and communities across the Philippines.

In accordance with PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice, Casino Plus wishes to remind all players of the following:

Gaming is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered a source of income or a means of financial relief. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and within their means.

Winning is never guaranteed. All gaming outcomes are determined by chance. Past results, including jackpot wins, do not influence or predict future outcomes.

I LOVE my JBL speakers almost as much as my toy collection. I probably have at least one from every series, going all the way back to the very first JBL Micro I got in 2012.

I wake up to the JBL Horizon 2, work with a PartyBox Club 120 playing in the background, and chill with the JBL Authentics in the bedroom.

But for all the love I have for JBL’s bigger and more powerful speakers, I have to say that one of its smallest devices has given me the most fun-and it’s not even a speaker.

I’m talking about the JBL EasySing Mic Mini Duo.

It was launched on my birthday, and I promised myself I’d get one. I finally did last month, and since then I’ve spent far too many nights behind closed doors, losing my voice to late-night solo videoke sessions.

I’d like to think there are two kinds of Filipinos: those who can sing and those who think they can sing.

I belong to a third group-the ones who know they can’t sing but refuse to let that stop them.

Some people scream or shout when they’re depressed, angry or emotional. Me? I grab a microphone and wail. And now that I’m living alone, let’s just say it’s happening a lot more frequently.

Fortunately, the neighbors haven’t complained. Yet.

SMALL MIC, BIG AMBITIONS

JBL actually released two EasySing form factors.

There’s the JBL EasySing Mic, which looks like the traditional wireless microphone we’re familiar with. Then there’s the much smaller JBL EasySing Mic Mini, available as a single-microphone package for ?8,999 or as the Mini Duo for ?12,999, which gives you two microphones.

Now, ?12,999 might sound expensive for a pair of tiny mics. But remember when dedicated videoke machines could cost several times that amount? You got thousands of songs but were still stuck with whatever was in the songbook. Want newer songs? You’d have to wait-and pay-for an update.

Then YouTube changed everything. Search for practically any song followed by ‘karaoke’ or ‘minus one,’ and chances are somebody has uploaded one.

The JBL EasySing Mic Mini goes one better.

It can turn the regular songs you already listen to into karaoke tracks with the press of a button.

JBL calls it AI Vocal Removal. Instead of requiring a specially prepared karaoke track, the EasySing processes the music you’re playing and reduces the original singer’s vocals in real time.

There are four levels so you can leave some of the original vocal when you need help or crank the removal all the way up and take over completely.

No songbook. No hunting for a decent minus-one version or settling for MIDI. Your Spotify, YouTube or music library effectively becomes your songbook.

And as I found out, AI Vocal Removal can be surprisingly good.

But karaoke isn’t the EasySing Mini Duo’s only trick. Remove the mic handles, attach the included magnetic clips and these tiny microphones can double as wireless clip-on mics for content creation, interviews, livestreaming and recording.

Plug the receiver into a compatible phone or laptop and you’ve essentially transformed your karaoke mics into a two-person wireless microphone system.

That’s something I certainly wasn’t expecting to be as good when I bought them primarily to embarrass myself singing power ballads.

WHAT’S INSIDE THE TINY MICS?

EACH JBL EasySing Mic Mini weighs only 37 grams. The Duo package includes two microphones, the wireless AI dongle/receiver, charging case, two magnetic ring handles, two magnetic clips and a carrying pouch.

The microphones use a 2.4GHz wireless connection to communicate with the dongle, while Bluetooth 5.3 handles compatible audio connections.

You’ll need to download the JBL One app first to access features like High-Pitch Voice Boost, natural reverb, microphone EQ, pitch and AI Vocal Removal settings.

Taking the microphones and dongle out of the charging case automatically powers them on. Put them back and they switch off and begin charging.

Perhaps the most important thing to know is that each microphone can last up to six hours. And if you’ve been singing for six straight hours, battery life is probably the least of your problems.

WHAT JBL SPEAKERS CAN YOU USE?

THE JBL EasySing Mic Mini Duo doesn’t simply work through the microphone input of a karaoke speaker. Its AI dongle is effectively the brains connecting the microphones, music source and speaker.

Officially supported JBL portable speakers include the JBL Go 5, Grip, Flip 7, Charge 6, Xtreme 5 and Boombox 4.

It also works with JBL PartyBox models, although the connection method varies depending on the generation. Newer models can connect through USB, while older PartyBoxes can use the EasySing’s AUX connection.

For this review, I’ve been using the JBL Charge 6.

PAIRING THE EASYSING MIC

THE first time I tried connecting everything, I instinctively expected to pair the microphones through Bluetooth. That’s not how it works.

First, update your speaker to the latest firmware through the JBL app. Then turn on the JBL Charge 6 and remove the EasySing microphones and dongle from their charging case.

Press and hold the Play button on the speaker while inserting the EasySing Mic dongle into its USB-C port. Wait for the confirmation tone and for the dongle’s indicator light to turn solid.

Then connect your phone normally to the JBL Charge 6 via Bluetooth and start playing music.

That’s it. Your phone sends the music to the JBL Charge 6, while the EasySing microphones communicate wirelessly with the dongle plugged into the speaker.

And now comes the fun part.

MAKE ALMOST ANY SONG A KARAOKE SONG

START playing the original version of your song-not a karaoke track-and activate Vocal Removal. You can cycle through 0, 25, 50 and 100 percent, progressively reducing the lead vocal until you’re left with something resembling a minus-one track.

At 0 percent, you’re singing along with the artist.

At 25 or 50 percent, the original singer remains audible enough to act as your guide-which, in my case, can be extremely helpful.

At 100 percent, you’re on your own.

God help everyone within hearing distance.

KARAOKE IN YOUR POUCH, OR BAG?

TECHNICALLY, you don’t need a big JBL speaker to use the EasySing Mic Mini Duo-unless you really want to do serious damage to the music industry.

The tiny JBL Go 5 is currently the smallest portable JBL speaker officially compatible with EasySing and probably the closest you can get to putting an entire videoke setup inside a small bag or pouch.

But karaoke is one of those activities where you eventually want more volume, especially once someone grabs the second mic and your supposedly intimate singing session starts attracting an audience.

Then there are the JBL Party Boxes.

My JBL PartyBox Club 120 has 160W of output, dual mic inputs and its own light show, making it the obvious choice for an actual party. The problem is that it weighs 11.05kg. It’s portable in the sense that you can carry it somewhere, but it’s certainly not fitting in any bag.

That’s why I think the JBL Charge 6 might be the sweet spot for the EasySing Mic Mini Duo.

It weighs just under a kilogram but gives you a 30W woofer and 15W tweeter for 45W of total output-enough volume and bass to make singing feel like karaoke rather than two people shouting over a tiny Bluetooth speaker.

It also has up to 24 hours of playback, stretchable to 28 hours using Playtime Boost. Considering the EasySing microphones are rated for six hours, the Charge 6 is unlikely to be the first thing begging for a charger during a videoke marathon.

For outdoor use, it’s IP68 water- and dust-resistant, drop-proof and has a detachable carrying strap.

So while the JBL Go 5 wins if you want the smallest karaoke setup possible, and a PartyBox is still what I’d choose for a proper gathering, the JBL Charge 6 lands comfortably in between.

Small enough for one person to bring anywhere, it’s also powerful enough that you’ll probably end up sharing the microphones.

And that’s when the EasySing Mic Mini Duo starts becoming dangerous.

Because karaoke was never meant to be a solitary activity.

AN analyst warned that the Philippines remains vulnerable during periods of sustained dollar strength given the country’s reliance on imported fuel and other essential commodities.

Unionbank of the Philippines Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said the peso’s move beyond the P62-per-dollar level reflects the continued dominance of external factors over domestic drivers.

‘While the BSP’s recent 25bp rate hike provides support to the currency, markets remain focused on broad US dollar strength, elevated oil prices, and lingering uncertainty in global financial markets,’ Asuncion said.

He added that demand for dollars from importers and investors has also likely contributed to the peso’s weakness.

Asuncion said this after the Philippine peso plunged to a new record low, moving past the P62-per-dollar level on Friday.

Data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) showed the peso closed at P62.265 per $1 on Friday, 37.7 centavos weaker than its previous finish of P61.888.

Meanwhile, Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), attributed the further weakening of the peso to the ‘local wider trade deficit data amid faster increase in imports compared to exports largely due to the effects of the war on Iran/Middle East since February 28,2026.’

Weak peso: A double-edged sword?

Asuncion explained to this newspaper that a weaker peso benefits remittance-receiving households because every dollar sent home converts into more pesos, helping support consumer spending.

However, he pointed out: ‘It also raises the cost of imports, particularly fuel, energy, raw materials, and other essential goods.’

If sustained, Asuncion warned that the higher cost of imports could contribute to inflation and increase costs for businesses and consumers.

‘The Philippines remains vulnerable during periods of sustained dollar strength given its reliance on imported fuel and other essential commodities. Higher oil prices increase the country’s import bill and may put additional pressure on both the currency and inflation,’ added Asuncion.

Asuncion said the peso is expected to remain volatile in the near term.

He explained that while the BSP’s tightening action should help anchor inflation expectations and temper further depreciation pressures, a ‘more sustained’ recovery in the currency will likely depend on easing oil prices, a softer US dollar, and an improvement in global risk sentiment.

‘For now, external developments remain the key driver of peso movements,’ added Asuncion.

For next week, Ricafort said the US dollar/peso exchange rate could range at 62.00-62.50 levels.

PRU Life UK is celebrating three decades in the Philippines with PRU POP (Promise of Protection) Run, highlighted by a special 30K race that challenges runners to go beyond the usual fun-run distances.

Set Sunday at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City, the event will feature 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K and the centerpiece 30K races.

The races are designed to accommodate a wide range of participants-from beginners taking their first steps into running to seasoned athletes looking for a demanding new milestone.

The 30K is particularly significant because the distance is relatively uncommon in local running events.

Rather than simply adding another category, Pru Life UK created the race as a physical representation of its 30-year journey in the country-30 kilometers for 30 years of serving Filipino policyholders and communities.

Pru Life UK Vice President and Head of Brand and Integrated Marketing Communications Kathryn Cajucom said the event reflects the idea that preparing for a stronger future involves more than financial security-it also requires healthier habits, discipline and the willingness to make responsible choices every day.

That message gives the 30K a deeper meaning-endurance is not only measured by how far a runner can go, but by the habits built along the way-and through PRU POP Run, Pru Life UK hopes to turn its 30th anniversary into a reminder that securing one’s future is itself a long-distance journey.

DERRICK ROSE joined ArenaPlus’s most valued players for an exclusive Champion’s Circle Appreciation Dinner last Tuesday-giving members of the brand’s strictly invitational VIP tier a rare evening with the basketball icon.

Staged at the Kasadya Buffet Buko Bar of Shangri-La Mactan in Cebu, Rose, a former National Basketball Association MVP, made sure ArenaPlus’ most loyal players had their moment.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a specially curated program featuring cultural performances, raffle draws and opportunities to interact with Rose, with photo opportunities among the night’s biggest highlights.

The event reflected the brand’s continuing commitment to recognizing and rewarding its most loyal players through exclusive experiences created especially for them.

ArenaPlus Head Ethan William welcomed guests through a pre-recorded message, thanking the company’s VIPs for their continued trust and support.

‘We started VIP Nights last December for one simple reason: to recognize our most valued players and give you something made just for you,’ William said. ‘Tonight is our way of saying thank you for being part of ArenaPlus. And of course, we wanted to make it extra special.’

Willam added: ‘As the No. 1 PAGCOR-licensed online sportsbook in the Philippines, we want to keep raising the bar-not just online, but in moments like this one.’

GAC Motor expands its vehicle lineup with the official launch of the GAC GS4 MAX HEV-a next-generation hybrid SUV engineered for upwardly mobile families. True to its moniker, the GS4 MAX delivers a high-value blend of maximum space, comfort, safety, and efficiency to seamlessly support the diverse lifestyle needs of modern households.

‘With the introduction of the GS4 MAX HEV, we are thrilled to offer modern Filipino families a high-value hybrid SUV that balances practical comfort, reliability, and exceptional efficiency,’ said Calvin Cheng, General Manager of GAC Philippines. ‘As we expand our SUV portfolio alongside the EMKOO, GS3 EMZOOM, and GS8, the GS4 MAX HEV reinforces our commitment to providing uncompromised mobility solutions designed to elevate everyday life for growing households across the country.’

Benchmark Hybrid Efficiency and Performance

At the heart of the GS4 MAX HEV is GAC’s 2.0L Atkinson-cycle dedicated hybrid engine paired with a 2-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and a 2.1 kWh Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) battery. Combining modern architectural aesthetics with GAC’s advanced hybrid technology, the multi-mode system seamlessly transitions between Pure Electric (EV), Hybrid (HV), Direct Engine Drive, and Energy Recuperation modes.

Powered by an Atkinson-cycle HEV engine, the system achieves a combined power output of 232 HP (173 kW) and a maximum motor torque of 300 N·m. Designed to optimize output while minimizing fuel consumption, it delivers an outstanding total combined driving range of up to 1,250 kilometers on a single tank, offering electric vehicle-like responsiveness with long-range peace of mind for daily city commutes and weekend getaways.

Family-Ready Space and Comfort

Tailored specifically for family-oriented users seeking true SUV versatility, the cabin is thoughtfully designed to maximize spatial freedom and passenger comfort on every journey.

Anchored by a generous 2,750 mm wheelbase and an expansive 1,901 mm wide body profile, the GS4 MAX HEV provides class-leading legroom and shoulder room across both rows. The interior features a modern Minimalist Black cabin crafted for low-maintenance elegance, framed by an expansive panoramic glass roof with an electric sunshade that bathes the space in natural light.

Passengers benefit from zero-pressure comfort seats with precision piping and extensive perforation for superior long-distance support. Designed around real-world family needs, the cabin incorporates whisper-quiet acoustic insulation, rear passenger air vents, and smart storage compartments throughout. When maximum cargo capacity is required, the second-row seats fold completely flat to unlock a seamless, unobstructed load floor-making light work of bulky strollers, sports gear, or luggage for family getaways.

Advanced Safety, Smart Tech, and Design Value

Safety and intelligent connectivity complete the GS4 MAX HEV package. Built around a robust safety-cage body structure comprising high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel in critical load-bearing areas, protection is further anchored by an Airbag Protection System equipped with dual front, front side, second-row side airbags, and seamless one-piece woven side curtain airbags.

Driving confidence is elevated by a full Level 2 Driver Assistance Suite, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB-VRU), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA), alongside a Surround View Camera System.

On the tech front, driver control is centered around a 10.1-inch Multifunctional Touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch LCD Digital Instrument Cluster, an aircraft-inspired gear selector, and a 50W Wireless Smartphone Charger with built-in cooling fan technology. Externally, its clean, confident presence is framed by a bold Qilin-inspired front fascia, Qingyun Ladder matrix grille, Morning Star LED headlights, full-width Changhong LED taillights, and electric hidden door handles.

The GAC GS4 MAX HEV is offered in three exterior colors: Planet Silver, Hoary Grey, and Crystal White. All exterior colorways feature the signature Minimalist Black interior cabin.

GAC has leveraged 20 years of collaboration with Toyota and Honda to emerge as a dominant force in automotive tech. A legacy of world-class manufacturing and hybrid expertise ensures that every GAC vehicle adheres to the most stringent quality and performance benchmarks. By harmonizing international engineering with localized precision, GAC delivers high-performance durability tailored specifically for the Filipino driver’s peace of mind.

GAC Philippines supports its owners through a nationwide network of 30 dealerships, a dedicated parts warehouse, two years of free roadside assistance, and tailored warranty coverage. ICE models (GS4, GS3 EMZOOM, EMKOO, GS8, EMPOW, M6 Pro, GN6, and M8) include a 5-year or 150,000 km warranty, whichever comes first. EV models (AION Y, Hyptec HT, AION UT, AION V, and AION ES) carry an 8-year or 160,000 km basic warranty, along with an 8-year or 200,000 km plan for the traction battery and electric drive, applicable up to the specified milestone. PHEV and HEV models (GS4 Max, E8, GN8, and GS8) offer a 5-year or 150,000 km basic warranty, complemented by an 8-year or 150,000 km policy covering the power battery, driving motor, and motor control unit.

NONPROFIT University of Saint Anthony (USANT), which provides quality yet affordable and accessible private education in Iriga City, Camarines Sur, has reiterated its commitment to ensure the utmost welfare of its students, faculty members, and employees as it prepares to celebrate its 80th founding anniversary in February 2027.

Chief among its major infrastructure projects is the Santiago D. Ortega Jr. Memorial Library that is set to open next year. The university’s new learning facility-a modern, four-story academic center that promotes learning, research, and intellectual development of its community-will serve more than 1,000 students, faculty members, and staff at any given time, providing dedicated space for reading, thinking, collaborating, and creating. It will have a welcoming lobby area, reading areas, discussion rooms, computer rooms, an oral defense room, individual carrels, and a café.

USANT President Atty. Emmanuel ‘Mickey’ SD. Ortega maintains that competent teachers and efficient staff bring out the best in their students as the school brings out the best in their teachers and employees because they are well taken care of.

Here are some recent proofs: All 94 first-time takers from USANT passed the Nurse Licensure Examination (LE) in November last year, while it also had a 100-percent passing rate for its takers in May last year versus the 64.39-percent national passing rate. All USANT graduates passed last year’s LE for Certified Public Accountants or CPAs conducted in October last year, while only 34 percent of all takers on the national level hurdled the test.

The same is true with those who took the LEs for Criminology, Teachers (elementary education), Architecture, and Librarians, who tallied 100-percent passing rates. Not far behind are its Engineering and Teachers (secondary education) examinees who registered a 90-percent passing rate last year.

Lower tuition fees, scholarship grants

USANT, which also offers Montessori grade school, senior and junior high school, and post-graduate education, has earned a reputation for lower tuition fees and scholarships for deserving students.

As a nonprofit private school without a board of directors, USANT channels its tuition earnings into higher salaries for teaching and administrative personnel, as well as the continuous upgrade of campus facilities, which serve as the backbone of every school, according to Ortega.

The university president is working to raise awareness of USANT’s high standards to help open greater opportunities for its college graduates. He wants to end a difficult situation often faced by students from the provinces-a situation repeated at the end of every school year: employers often prefer graduates of prestigious universities from Metro Manila.

When he took over USANT’s reins in 2022, Ortega’s first order of the day was to raise teachers’ salaries. He believes in retaining and attracting highly qualified faculty members who shape an institution’s academic and research culture.

The university is the largest private employer in Camarines Sur’s Rinconada region with close to 800 employees-an 81-percent increase from three years ago. Ortega links this jump to the school’s reputation for prioritizing workers’ welfare.

The school’s board of trustees approved, in November last year, a salary increase ensuring the lowest employee salary will be at least P12,000 for five days a week. Minimum wage in Iriga City for the same period is P9,570.

People first

UNDER Ortega, USANT has followed a ‘people-first philosophy’ that has kept its workforce happy, encouraging its employees to ‘stay, grow, and build their dreams with USANT.’ This has enticed many professionals to find work at the university.

The university’s philosophy became evident when severe tropical storm Kristine (international name: Trami) ravaged Bicol in 2024, flooding areas that had not been prone to such a situation and leaving hundreds of families homeless. Several victims were employed by USANT, which immediately provided relief and other forms of assistance to assure them that the university has their back during times of crisis.

Affected employees received cash assistance, an early release of their 13th month pay, and full salaries paid even while classes were suspended. Students who lost their books to flooding were given subsidies, while relief packs were given to affected households.

Also important was the trauma counseling given to both students and personnel. Likewise, the institution’s tuition assistance program dubbed ‘Serbisyo Niyo, Kinabukasan ng Anak Niyo’ grants up to 100-percent tuition coverage for the qualified children of employees.

This school year, 123 children of USANT employees availed of scholarships or discounts, a considerable rise from the 68 children accepted last school year.

‘When we invest in the children of our staff, we build stronger families and better schools,’ Ortega said. ‘Care should not be seen as a cost.’

USANT’s social responsibility extends beyond the campus with ‘Alay sa Kapwa: A Chance to Change Lives,’ where employees actively participate. They help identify individuals or families in their communities who need assistance either in kind or cash, including their neighbors, relatives, and friends. The university makes Christmas donations to those beneficiaries in the name of the employees who recommended them.

Alay sa Kapwa reached 750 families in 2025, with funding of about P855,00.

Career growth, empowerment

Both teaching and administrative personnel are encouraged to hone their abilities through opportunities for career growth. Many who started at USANT as clerks, encoders, or assistants had been promoted to administrative officers, supervisors, and even directors and deans.

Faculty members are given opportunities to prove themselves worthy of promotion to assistant professor or associate professor. Ortega noted that at USANT, a ‘first job is never [the] final position. One is hired to grow, not to stay still.’

USANT employees have also completed 19,000 training hours last year-averaging 24.64 hours per employee-funded by a budget of P6,394,996. These training programs covered digital and artificial intelligence literacy and mental health awareness, among others. The university also sent employees to benchmark best practices in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Japan.

When people think of Cannes, they think of the red carpet.

Every May, the world’s attention turns to Cannes. Cameras are everywhere, stars arrive one after another, influencers fill social media with every moment, and some of the biggest film premieres take place.

But Cannes is much more than that. Beyond the glitz and glamour is a charming Mediterranean city with historic streets, beautiful beaches, great food, and stunning sea views. Pronounced ‘Can’ (the ‘s’ is silent), Cannes sits on the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco.

I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Cannes twice, both times to attend the Cannes Film Festival as part of the QCinema International Film Festival delegation. While my days were filled with screenings, meetings, and representing QCinema, I always made time to explore the city.

Between events, I wandered through the old town, walked along the waterfront, discovered quiet corners, and realized that Cannes is a destination worth visiting even when the festival isn’t happening.

For first-time visitors, the Palais des Festivals is a must. This is where the Cannes Film Festival takes place and where the famous Grand ThéStre Lumière is located.

The Palais sits along La Croisette, Cannes’ waterfront boulevard. Lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, cafés, designer boutiques, and beaches, it’s one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

During the festival, La Croisette is the best place to people-watch. You’ll see guests dressed in gowns and tuxedos rushing to screenings, influencers creating content on almost every corner, and fans hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars outside hotels like the Carlton and the Martinez.

Just across from the Palais des Festivals is Allées de la Liberté, a tree-lined promenade and public square where locals, filmmakers, and visitors gather throughout the day. Restaurants spill onto the sidewalks, people meet over coffee, and festival guests gather for drinks after screenings. Even without a festival pass, it’s another great place to soak up the atmosphere.

On weekends, the square becomes even livelier with local artists displaying their work and a popular brocante market selling antiques and vintage finds.

Just behind the Palais is Rue Meynadier, one of Cannes’ oldest and busiest pedestrian streets. It connects the city center with Le Suquet, the historic old town, and is lined with bakeries, cafés, restaurants, cheese shops, and local boutiques.

Both times I visited Cannes, I stayed on Rue Meynadier. It turned out to be the perfect base because almost everything was within walking distance.

Just behind the street is Marché Forville, Cannes’ main public market, where locals shop for fresh seafood, cheeses, olives, flowers, pastries, and seasonal produce. It’s worth stopping by to experience everyday life in the city before continuing to Le Suquet.

From Marché Forville, the streets begin climbing into Le Suquet, Cannes’ historic old town. Follow the narrow cobblestone lanes, and you’ll eventually reach Notre-Dame d’Espérance, a hilltop church overlooking the city.

The climb is worth it because the view from the top is one of the best in Cannes. Looking down, you’ll see the Old Port of Cannes (Vieux-Port), La Croisette, the rooftops of the old town, and the Mediterranean stretching into the distance.

If walking uphill isn’t your thing, you can hop aboard Le Petit Train, the charming tourist train that winds through the old quarter before reaching the viewpoint.

For shopping and dining, don’t miss Rue d’Antibes and nearby Rue Hoche. Rue d’Antibes is Cannes’ main shopping street, lined with everything from international brands to local boutiques. Just around the corner, Rue Hoche has a more relaxed feel, with cozy cafés, restaurants, and outdoor terraces.

Another landmark worth visiting is Notre-Dame de Bon Voyage. Just a few minutes from the festival crowds, it feels worlds away. Originally built as a small chapel for local fishermen in the 15th century, the church is best known as the first place Napoleon Bonaparte visited after returning from exile on Elba in 1815. Its name, which means ‘Our Lady of Good Journey,’ reflects its long history as a place where travelers stopped to pray before setting off.

And if you’re Filipino and start craving a taste of home after a few days of French food, you’re in luck. Cannes has three Filipino establishments, including Kabayan, where you can enjoy comforting home-cooked meals served carinderia-style. Located just a few steps from the train and bus station, it’s the perfect last stop before continuing your journey to your next destination.