Category: Philippine Star

A Cebu City councilor has filed an ordinance seeking the full disclosure of City Hall employees in all positions, including their corresponding salary grades.

The proposed ordinance, authored by Councilor Kendrick Go, is entitled ‘An Ordinance Mandating the Disclosure of the Names, Positions, Employment Status, Office Assignments, and Salary Grades of all Cebu City Government Employees, Including Regular, Casual, Co-terminus, and Job Order Personnel, Requiring Employees to Execute a Limited Waiver Under the Data Privacy Act for These Specific Details, Providing for Procedures and Sanctions for Non-Compliance.’

This initiative aims to counter allegations that the City is keeping numerous ‘ghost employees,’ raising concerns on accountability, transparency, and the proper use of public funds.

Go said that transparency in government is essential in maintaining trust and accountability.

He said among the most effective ways to combat the reported ghost employees is through the public disclosure of government workers’ salaries.

‘This practice is not just about revealing numbers; it is a cornerstone of good governance, ensuring that public funds are managed responsibly and that government officials and employees are held accountable for their compensation decisions,’ the proposed measure said.

Once the proposed ordinance is approved, it will apply to all employees of the Cebu City Government, including regular, casual, co-terminus, and job-order (JO) personnel.

Part of the procedures to be done as per ordinance is for employees to fill out a disclosure form that shall be published quarterly by the Human Resource Development Office (HRDO). Employees will also be required to execute a limited waiver under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (R.A. 10173).

Under this form, employees are required to disclose their full name, position title, employment status, and corresponding salary grade.

This information shall be made public on the Cebu City Government’s official website and the Cebu City Public Information Office’s official Facebook page. It will also be posted in three conspicuous places – the HRDO Bulletin Board, ABC Building, and DGS Building.

Failure to submit this information will subject the HRDO and department heads to sanctions outlined in the ordinance, which include a written reprimand for the first offense, a 30-day suspension for the second offense, and administrative liability under Civil Service rules.

For employees who refuse to sign the waiver, the ordinance also prescribes penalties such as non-renewal of contracts for JO employees, withholding of appointment or disciplinary action for casual and co-terminus employees, and disciplinary action for regular employees.

Digital entertainment company DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has entered into an exclusive partnership with bills payment services provider Bayad to expand over-the-counter (OTC) or physical payment options for players of BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and GameZone.

The agreement makes DigiPlus as Bayad’s only gaming partner for OTC cash transactions.

DigiPlus chairman Eusebio Tanco said the partnership is part of the company’s commitment to deliver engaging entertainment while ensuring safe and reliable services for its players.

‘This partnership with Bayad provides customers with more secure and convenient ways to manage their transactions, reinforcing our commitment to player protection and dependable service at every touchpoint,’ he said.

Through this collaboration, DigiPlus customers will gain access to Bayad’s extensive network of payment touchpoints, which is present across over 800 Bayad Center branches and Bayad Partners in malls, supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide.

BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone players can also now make cash-ins or deposits through Bayad.

To provide its customers with more options to manage their funds conveniently and safely, DigiPlus announced that additional features, including cash-outs and withdrawals, and access through the Bayad App, will be rolled out in the next phases.

DigiPlus said that the Bayad payment channels partnership adds to its growing customer service network and player support, which already includes its in-house 24/7 customer support, over 130 physical BingoPlus stores nationwide and a surety bond for player wallets.

Bayad, a subsidiary of the Manila Electric Co. and the biggest and widest multi-channel payment platform in the Philippines, is accredited by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) as an electronic money issuer.

DigiPlus said that it partners only with BSP-accredited payment channels, in accordance with the requirements of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., to ensure that all player wallet transactions are processed through secure and compliant payment platforms.

‘Together, we’re expanding access to digital channels and offering new, engaging and responsible ways for Filipinos to experience convenience and entertainment made possible by accessible and inclusive financial services,’ Bayad chairman of the board Ray Espinosa said.

With over 39,000 payment touchpoints nationwide, as well as powering the bills payment feature of leading online and mobile payment applications in the country, Bayad has evolved from an over-the-counter payment collection service provider to what is now the biggest and widest multi-channel payment platform.

After the Trillion Peso March, groups of anti-corruption advocates are mounting a nationwide White Friday Protest.

Starting today and every Friday, the Trillion Peso March Movement will mount a noise barrage and candle lighting to demand accountability and transparency in government spending.

‘This is not just a protest – it’s a people’s vigil for truth, justice, and reform,’ the movement said in a statement. ‘From homes to highways, parishes to workplaces, we’re inviting everyone to make noise and light candles until every peso of the people’s money is accounted for.’

The launch event will be highlighted by a 6 p.m. mass at EDSA Shrine, followed by a noise barrage, candle lighting, and the singing of Bayan Ko.

There will also be ringing of all church bells every 8 p.m., described as ‘both a prophetic cry of indignation and outrage against the evil of corruption, and a resounding call to contrition and conversion.’

The St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Scout Magbanua, Quezon City, will lead a noise barrage and bell ringing, headed by Rev. Fr. Romerico Prieto, in solidarity with communities nationwide echoing the same call for truth and accountability.

Noise barrage and candlelighting hubs will also kick off in local parishes and communities across Metro Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod and other regions nationwide. Participants are encouraged to wear white as a symbol of truth and unity

The Trillion Peso March Movement also emphasized that the weekly protest transcends politics. ‘We will keep the noise alive until accountability is achieved. Every whistle, every candle, every voice matters,’ it said.

Hypocritical

The Philippines should focus on anti-corruption reforms instead of applying to be co-chair of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) for next year, former finance undersecretary Cielo Magno said yesterday.

Magno spoke on Monday at the OGP’s Global Summit in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, where the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management was named ‘overall winner’ and ‘national level winner’ of ‘anti-corruption theme.’

In a Facebook post, Magno told Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman that the awards mean nothing if the agency fails to prevent massive corruption in the procurement process.

‘The Philippines is a founding member but failed to deliver a fully operational legal guarantee for the right to information up to now,’ the former finance official-turned-transparency advocate said.

It is hypocritical, she said, for the Philippine government to aim as a co-chair of the OGP-a 74-member group promoting transparency, civil participation, inclusivity and accountability in governance-given the prevalence and massiveness of corruption issues.

‘We must be doing something wrong in terms of impact monitoring in OGP because these mentioned reforms fail to have a genuine impact,’ Magno underscored.

‘We can have co-created plans and commitments, but they can be just nicely written essays, but actually are meaningless for the citizens,’ she added.

In a scathing speech, Magno lamented that civil society groups advocating for transparency are ‘under attack’ by adversarial personalities, from digital trolls to the upper echelons of government.

‘We are not just ‘stakeholders,” she said. ‘We are co-creators, watchdogs, and the moral backbone of this movement, so we cannot let ourselves be divided into ‘us’ and ‘them.”

‘Governments and civil society are not adversaries-we are partners in accountability,’ she stressed.

Philippine civil society groups are increasingly asserting their role in the budget process. Despite assurances from House leaders to foster inclusion, many groups feel sidelined as mere observers.

‘We would like to have the opportunity to be called upon to give our opinion,’ AJ Montesa, technical advisor at People’s Budget Coalition (PBC), a group of civil society organizations accredited by the House to monitor the budget deliberations, told One News’ ‘Money Talks’ in September.

Clamoring for a more active role, Montesa said that ‘our goal is really to become resource persons.’

In a joint statement on Tuesday, the PBC and five other groups alleged that the House Budget Amendments Review Subcommittee’s version of the 2026 National Expenditure Program contains over P230 billion in pork barrel, despite the Supreme Court declaring it unconstitutional a decade ago.

Looking for your next food trip? These dining spots inside SMDC properties are low-key, amazing and worth a visit whether you live nearby or are just dropping in.

From Japanese beef bowls to Tagaytay cafés with a view, these places offer more than good eats. They bring flavor, vibe and convenience to everyday dining.

Here’s where to eat when hunger strikes:

1. Liminvl Coffee – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay

Liminvl Coffee at SMDC Strip at Wind offers approachable specialty brews in a cozy, home-like space where residents, office workers and coffee lovers gather. Its best-seller is the Apricot Latte, a smooth espresso topped with apricot-infused foam, while favorites like the Americoco, Mushroom Melt, Fish and Chips, and hand-brewed pour-overs keep guests coming back, with seasonal coffee mocktails, an expanded food menu, and upcoming workshops making it a true community hub.

Price range per head: P400 – P700

2. Koibitos Gelato – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay

Koibitos Gelato brings a little taste of Italy to SMDC Strip at Wind, offering authentic artisanal gelato made fresh daily with Batangas milk and premium ingredients from around the world. Families and kids keep coming back for must-try flavors like Batangas Tablea, Pistachio, Cashew Butter and Kapeng Barako, while adventurous guests go for the affogato with gelato and espresso. More than just dessert, Koibitos creates a space for families and friends to connect, play and relive childhood moments, all while enjoying handcrafted gelato in a warm, thoughtfully designed store.

Price range per head: P450

3. The Bakery – SMDC Strip at Wind Residences, Tagaytay

The Bakery at SMDC Strip at Wind serves freshly baked classics made with quality ingredients, offering favorites like the plain buttery Croissants for a taste of Paris, or Ube Cheese Pandesal, best enjoyed with their café-style coffee. More than a stop for your daily bread, it’s a neighborhood spot where residents and families return for comfort, connection and the simple joy of warm pastries straight from the oven.

Price range per head: P450

4. Tulua Café – SMDC Air Mall, Makati

Tulua Café at SMDC Air Mall is part of the Tulua wellness lifestyle brand, offering guilt-free comfort food crafted with wellness in mind. Known for favorites like Truffle Pasta, the Beach Babe Smoothie and nutrient-packed Smoothie Bowls made with natural sweeteners only, the café sets itself apart with clean recipes, a calming ambiance and interiors designed to nourish both body and mind. Residents, professionals and wellness-seekers come not just for the food but for a mini escape, leaving refreshed, cared for and eager to return.

Price range per head: P500 – P600

5. Umi Sushi – SMDC Air Mall, Makati

Umi Sushi at SMDC Air Mall brings simply good sushi to the heart of Makati, offering freshly made rolls and sets that balance flavor, texture and value. What started as a pandemic-born online brand has grown into a welcoming dine-in spot loved by young professionals, residents and families alike. Must-tries include the Umi Set 1 for variety, Crunchy Salmon for something light and Spicy Tuna or Kamikaze Rolls for a flavorful kick. More than just affordable Japanese dining, Umi Sushi delivers a cozy space where guests feel at home and always leave planning their next visit.

Price range per head: P500

6. Wolhwa Galbi – MAAX, Pasay

Wolhwa Galbi at MAAX brings authentic Korean barbecue from Seoul to Manila, offering premium specialties like the 56-hour Aged Premium Galbi and the 168-hour Dry-aged Samgyupsal, both crafted for unmatched tenderness and flavor.

First-time guests often go for the Gold Course, a curated set featuring signature meats and side dishes, while regulars range from families and office workers to concert-goers from the nearby arena. With over 130 seats, the restaurant is ideal for both casual dining and private gatherings, balancing authenticity and local tastes through traditional Korean recipes with flavors Filipinos love. Every visit is designed to be more than just a meal but a shared experience of flavor, warmth and company, leaving guests saying it’s the closest thing to Korea they’ve tasted.

Price range per head: P599 – P699

7. Sukiya – SMDC Strip at Mezza, Quezon City

SUKIYA, Japan’s famous beef bowl chain, brings authentic Gyudon made with the same recipe, equipment, and methods used in Japan. Guests can choose from five Gyudon sizes or try other favorites like Yakiniku and Yakisoba plates starting at just P75. With its unique fast yet full-service system, the store caters to students, professionals, commuters and families alike. Open for longer hours outside the mall setting, SUKIYA delivers Japan’s beloved fast food experience with flavorful, freshly made meals served quickly and consistently.

Price range per head: P300

8. One Pot – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

One Pot is the go-to spot for unlimited hotpot at SMDC Strip at Shore, offering a fun self-serve setup where you can mix sauces, pick fresh ingredients, and let their automatic hotpot system lift your food when it’s ready. Top picks include the Shrimp Bucket and US Prime Wagyu, along with their playful variety of meatballs like the Golden Chiz Ball and Lobster Ball. With its lively and welcoming vibe, it’s a favorite for families, groups and celebrations, especially with their birthday promo where the celebrant eats free with five paying adults.

Price range per head: P699 – P799

9. Jidong – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

Looking for a drink that’s both refreshing and filling? Jidong, an international brand known for its authentic milk teas, brings its signature flavors to SMDC Strip at Shore. Crowd favorites include the Herbal Jelly Milk Tea, Watermelon Coconut and Mango Coconut, loved for their rich, unique blends. First-timers should try the Mango Coconut, a creamy tropical mix with a hint of coconut milk. Every cup is crafted to deliver consistency, authenticity, and a taste that keeps guests coming back.

Price range per head: P130 – P330

10. Yanggoufu – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

Yangguofu Malatang at SMDC Strip at Shore brings the authentic taste of China’s beloved hotpot-style dish right to the heart of the community. Known for its rich Beef Broth with a light spicy kick, Yangguofu lets you customize every bowl with fresh vegetables, meats and noodles, making each visit a personal culinary adventure.

The self-service concept, paired with their famous condiment bar and attentive service, sets them apart from other dining spots in the area. A favorite among Shore Residences homeowners, visitors and SM employees, Yangguofu has quickly become a go-to destination for flavorful, satisfying meals. First-timers should dive straight into the signature Malatang Beef Broth, a must-try that delivers the perfect balance of spice, umami and comfort.

Price range per head: P350 – P500

11. The Aviary – SMDC Strip at Shore Residences, Pasay

Aviary at SMDC Strip at Shore brings the same calming, nature-inspired vibe it first introduced inside Manila Zoo’s Aviary Sanctuary into a new community setting.

By day, it’s a cozy spot for specialty coffee like the must-try sea-salt latte and refreshing yuzu citron soda, paired with favorites such as salmon ceviche and mala cream dim sum. By night, it transforms into a laid-back cocktail bar, serving globally inspired drinks and hearty mains like honey-glazed salmon with mango salsa and their signature rustic beef burger steak.

With its blend of comfort food, craft cocktails and a serene atmosphere, Aviary offers a pocket of escape in the middle of the bustling MOA complex.

Price range per head: P250 – P500

12. Sweeney Todd – SMDC Jazz Mall, Makati

Sweeney Todd Manila at SMDC Jazz Mall is a hidden speakeasy disguised as a barbershop, offering English-style comfort food, playful cocktails and a cozy vibe that stands out in Makati. Inspired by the movie of the same name, its signature Meat Pie is a crowd favorite, while must-try dishes like Truffle Bacon Pasta, Four Cheese Pizza and Buffalo Wings pair perfectly with drinks such as Blood on the Blade and Amaretto Sour.

The bar draws both professionals unwinding after work and Gen Z crowds on weekends, with themed nights like Tuesday Sing-Alongs and 90s Fridays adding to the fun. It’s a relaxed, music-filled escape where guests leave saying, ‘We’re definitely coming back.’

The Ateneo de Manila University topped the list of Philippine schools in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.

Entering the 1,001-1,200 bracket, Ateneo is ahead of the University of the Philippines, which is in bracket 1,201-1,500.

With an overall score of 32.1-35.4, Ateneo garnered 27 in teaching, 11.2 in research environment, 64.7 in research quality, 23.8 in industry and 35.6 in international outlook.

UP received an overall score of 27.3-32 after obtaining 27.4 in teaching, 17.9 in research environment, 39 in research quality, 28.9 in industry and 38.6 in international outlook.

The University of Oxford in the United Kingdom retained its number one placement for the 10th consecutive year, with a total score of 98.2.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States placed second, followed by Princeton University in the US and University of Cambridge in the UK, both in the top 3.

Four other Philippine schools joined the list, including De La Salle University, Mapua University, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology and University of Santo Tomas, all in the 1501+ bracket.

China has five universities in the top 40, up from three last year.

Hong Kong occupied a record six spots in the top 200, while India has the second-highest number of universities ranked for the first time, behind the US.

‘I commend the entire University community for this achievement. It is a recognition of the hard work of students and faculty, researchers, support staff and administrators,’ Ateneo president Fr. Roberto Yap said.

In the QS World University Rankings released in June, Ateneo ranked 511.

Few PhD holders

Only 0.18 percent of 5.4 million degree holders in the Philippines are Doctors of Philosophy, according to the Commission on Higher Education.

At yesterday’s commencement speech before postgraduates of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis said education becomes the most decent form of ambition ‘in a country where opportunity is unequal, where merit is too often replaced by connections.’

Advanced learning is pursued to expand a person’s purpose and not to elevate their status, she stressed.

‘At a time when corruption, apathy and indifference still threaten the very soul of governance,’ the country needs leaders who remember that integrity is essential and not optional, Agrupis said.

State officials, contractors and engineers have been implicated in ghost and substandard infrastructure projects nationwide, as well as anomalous budget insertions.

The sequel to “Bar Boys” and the feature film return of Angelica Panganiban highlight the second batch of entries for the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

The final four films were announced at an event in the University of Makati hosted once more by Jervi “KaladKaren” Wrightson and Enchong Dee, accompanied by host-beauty queen Ivy Nuqui.

After a recap of the four screenplays that were selected for the first batch (and are in the middle of completion), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Atty. Ron Artes announced the four completed films to round up the 2025 line-up:

Romance film “I’m Perfect” by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, starring Kristel Go, Earl Amaba, Sylvia Sanchez, Lorna Tolentino, Janice de Belen, Tonton Gutierrez, Joey Marquez, and Zaijan Jaranilla;

Romance film “Love You So Bad” by Mae Cruz Alviar, starring Bianca de Vera, Will Ashley, Dustin Yu, Xyriel Manabat, Nour Hooshmand and Ralph de Leon;

Drama movie “UnMarry” by Jeffrey Jeturian, starring Angelica Panganiban, Zanjoe Marudo, Eugene Domingo, Solenn Heussaff, Donna Cariaga, Sharmaine Buencamino, Jervi Wrightson, Adrienne Vergara, Tom Rodriguez, Nico Antonio, Zack Sibug;

Drama-comedy “Bar Boys: After School” by Kip Oebanda, starring Carlo Aquino, Rocco Nacino, Enzo Pineda, Kean Cipriano, Odette Khan, Sassa Gurl, Therese Malvar, Glaiza de Castro, Klarisse de Guzman, Will Ashley and Benedix Ramos

“Bar Boys: After School” has Carlo, Rocco, Enzo, Kean and Odette returning to reprise their roles from the 2017 original film.

“UnMarry” will see Angelica back on the big screen for the first time since 2021’s “Love or Money” and returning to the MMFF after over a decade, having last joining in 2012’s “One More Try” which also starred Zanjoe.

“Love You So Bad” features the love-triangle trio of “Pinoy Big Brother” stars Bianca, Will (who also stars in “Bar Boys: After Hours”), and Dustin Yu accompanied by fellow housemate Ralph.

Much like how the housemates’ season was a collaboration, “Love You So Bad” is produced by the Philippines’ leading studios – Star Cinema, GMA Pictures and Regal Entertainment.

“I’m Perfect” has an ensemble of veteran actors like Sylvia, Lorna, and Janice, all of them supporting the two leads Kristel and Earl who are actors with Down syndrome.

These four films join the first batch of entries, initially chosen from 23 submitted scripts:

Comedy-drama “Call Me Mother,” starring Nadine Lustre and Vice Ganda, directed by Jun Robles Lana;

Family drama “Rekonek,” starring Carmina Villaroel, Gloria Diaz, Alexa Miro, Gerald Anderson, and Zoren Legazpi, directed by Jade Castro;

Crime-thriller “Manila’s Finest,” starring Piolo Pascual, directed by Rae Red;

Horror, “Shake Rattle and Roll: Evil Origins,” starring Ivana Alawi, Fyang Smith, Loisa Andalio, Ashley Ortega, Isabel Ortega, Elijah Alejo, Carla Abellana, Manilyn Reynes, Janice de Belen, Francine Diaz, Kaila Estrada, Richard Gutierrez, Seth Fedelin, Ryan Bang, JM Ibarra, Dustin Yu, directed by Shugo Praico, Joey de Guzman, Ian Loreños

Key dates to remember are the Parade of Stars on December 19 taking place in Makati, the theatrical start of the MMFF on December 25 (Christmas Day), and the Gabi ng Parangal on December 27.

The Legaspi family of Carmina Villarroel, Zoren Legaspi, and twins Mavy and Cassy are all set for their first television series together “Hating Kapatid.”

The show “Hating Kapatid” promises to deliver a gripping tale of love, betrayal and redemption.

At the heart of the story is Carmina’s Roselle who has long harbored feelings for her childhood best friend, Zoren’s Cris who marries another woman who while wealthy comes off toxic.

As cracks begin to show in Zoren’s marriage and Roselle finds herself vulnerable, the two give in to a moment of weakness.

Roselle becomes pregnant but, unwilling to destroy Cris’ marriage, decides to raise the child alone despite Cris’ secret intention to take the infant. A delayed internal delivery a month later leaves Roselle with twins Belle and Tyrone (Cassy and Mavy).

Adding further depth to the series are Valerie Concepcion, Bobby Andrews, Leandro Baldemor, Mercedes Cabral, and rising stars Vince Maristela, Cheska Fausto, and Haley Dizon.

Adolfo Alix Jr. directs the series on a script by Luningning Ribay assisted by fellow writers Maria Christina Velasco, Renato Custodio, Wiro Michael Ladera, and Jai Shane Cañete.

“Hating Kapatid” premieres on October 13 and will run Mondays to Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. on GMA.

Banks have started enforcing new limits on large cash withdrawals and payouts in line with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)’s latest directive aimed at curbing money laundering and promoting traceable transactions.

In a customer advisory, BDO Unibank Inc. said that starting Oct. 7, cash withdrawals of over P500,000 per banking day, or its equivalent in foreign currency equivalent, would require additional documents in compliance with BSP Circular 1218.

Under the circular, financial institutions must cap large-value cash transactions at P500,000 unless the amount is processed through traceable channels.

The new rule, approved by the Monetary Board on Sept. 18 and taking effect in early October, requires enhanced due diligence (EDD) for customers seeking to withdraw or encash beyond the P500,000 threshold.

These clients must present valid identification and proof of legitimate business purpose, such as documentation for hospital bills or supplier payments.

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) announced that starting Oct. 4, customers who need to withdraw more than P500,000 would be asked to provide a valid ID and supporting documents.

‘Customers will be asked to submit additional identification information and/or proof of a legitimate business purpose for large cash out transactions exceeding P500,000,’ BPI said.

Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) said the new rule seeks to ‘promote secure and transparent banking,’ noting that single or multiple withdrawals are now capped at P500,000 per banking day.

‘Large value cash transactions or withdrawals above P500,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency must be processed only through traceable channels, such as check payments, fund transfers or digital platforms,’ Metrobank said.

It added that clients might be asked to provide identification or other supporting papers to verify the purpose of the transaction.

Other lenders such as the Philippine National Bank (PNB), Bank of Commerce and Union Bank of the Philippines have also issued advisories to customers outlining compliance procedures.

PNB reminded depositors to notify branches two banking days in advance for over-the-counter cash withdrawals above P500,000 and to submit supporting documents, while BankCom stressed that withdrawals exceeding the limit ‘may require enhanced verification’ and proof of fund source.

UnionBank likewise said that ‘withdrawals above P500,000 would now be subject to EDD procedures’ and urged clients to use traceable alternatives such as online fund transfers and digital payments.

According to the BSP, the new policy was introduced after risk assessments found that cash-based transactions remain vulnerable to money laundering, terrorism financing and other illicit fund flows.

By requiring stricter checks and documentation, regulators aim to promote transparency and preserve the integrity of the financial system.

The central bank said the regulation covers both banks and other BSP-supervised financial institutions. Violations or suspicious activities must be reported through suspicious transaction reports.

The policy, however, has drawn mixed reactions online. Several social media users, particularly small business owners, expressed frustration over the stricter requirements and said that the P500,000 daily cash limit could disrupt operations and delay payments to suppliers.

Others described the need to submit additional documents as ‘a hassle,’ noting that many legitimate businesses still rely heavily on cash transactions for day-to-day expenses.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered for the immediate evacuation of areas at risk of a tsunami following a massive earthquake that struck off the coast of Davao Oriental on Friday, October 10.

State seismologists have already issued a tsunami warning in several coastal areas in Visayas and Mindanao, namely Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, Davao Oriental, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur.

‘I have directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defense, the Armed Forces, the Philippine Coast Guard, and all concerned agencies to immediately carry out evacuations in coastal areas, activate emergency communication lines, and coordinate closely with local governments,’ Marcos said in a statement.

Search and relief operations are also being prepared and will be deployed once it is safe, Marcos added.

Both the Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development are on standby to provide emergency aid.

‘To our kababayans in the affected regions, please stay alert and calm. Move to higher ground and stay away from the shore until authorities declare it safe. Follow all instructions from your local disaster councils and barangay officials. Your safety is our top priority,’ Marcos said.

The quake, initially recorded at a magnitude 7.6 and revised down to 7.5, struck in the waters off the coast of Manay, Davao Oriental.

Several local government units and schools have already suspended classes in light of the earthquake.

The earthquake that struck Davao came one week after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu, killing several people and destroying vital infrastructure.

A lawyer who allegedly duped at least 27 people through a fraudulent investment scam was arrested in Quezon City on Wednesday night.

The 31-year-old suspect, whom police identified only as Joy, was arrested during a sting in a restaurant along Timog Avenue at 7:45 p.m., according to a report from the Project 4 Police Station 8.

Police served the warrant of arrest for estafa against the lawyer, issued by a court in Santiago City in Isabela, as she appeared for a meeting with one of the complainants.

Lt. Col. Joe Leanza, Station 8 commander, said one of the complainants lost P300,000 to the suspect who allegedly hid for eight months from the victims.

Leanza said police acted on the information and assisted the complainant in setting up a business meeting with the lawyer.

‘We set up the meeting with the lawyer and one of the victims under the pretense that she is going to make an additional investment,’ Leanza said.

He said other victims complained that they were lured into investing in the lawyer’s trucking service after they were allegedly promised P5,600 in weekly earnings.

According to Leanza, the victims started having doubts when the suspect could no longer deliver on her promises.

‘She is a lawyer, so (the victims) did not question her credibility,’ Leanza said in Filipino over News5.

The court set the bail for the suspect’s temporary liberty at P36,000.