Category: Philippine Star

The world’s largest economic bloc by GDP, the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), will hold its economic leader’s meeting this coming Oct. 31 in the historic city of Gyeongju, South Korea. Gyeongju is Korea’s ancient capital and center for culture. It is home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The Philippines is a founding member of APEC back in 1989. Today, APEC counts 21 members, including economic heavyweights such as the US, China, Canada, Australia and Russia – all of whom have borders that face the Pacific Ocean.

APEC was formed to advance economic integration and promote shared prosperity across the Asia-Pacific. The bloc works to facilitate the seamless flow of goods, services, investments and people across borders. This has been achieved by streamlining customs procedures, enhancing business environments and unifying regulations and standards.

South Korea too is among APEC’s founding members. The north Asian nation hosted the 3rd APEC Ministerial Meeting in 1991, which led to the adoption of the Seoul Declaration. For those unaware, the Seoul Declaration is a commitment to open regionalism, economic cooperation, sustainable growth, economic cooperation, trade liberalization and free investment flows.

In 2005, South Korea hosted the summit again, wherein the Busan Roadmap was drawn. The Busan Roadmap established clear steps towards trade and investment liberalization, capacity building for developing economies and structural reforms towards increased competitiveness.

This year’s summit carries special significance since it is held at a time of heightened geopolitical and economic uncertainty, primarily triggered by President Trump’s tariffs. The summit’s theme is: ‘Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, Prosper.’ Hence, we can expect APEC members to chart a new vision and roadmap for the Asia Pacific amid US tariffs, a growing trend towards protectionism and geopolitical tensions brought about by multiple global conflicts.

The summit has multiple objectives – to strengthen connectivity among members through physical, institutional and people-to- people exchanges; to promote digital innovation by narrowing the digital divide and AI cooperation and to pursue sustainable growth through collective responses to global issues.

The meeting in Gyeongju will be particularly meaningful since Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping are expected to hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines. This will mark the first US-China bilateral talks in Trump’s second term. It also positions South Korea as the stage for historic negotiations.

The Philippines at APEC

The Philippines hosted the APEC Summit two times – in Subic in 1996 and in Manila in 2025. The two summits resulted in the 1996 Manila Action Plan and 2025 Inclusive Growth Agenda, both of which put the Philippines on the APEC map.

As of yesterday, there has been no firm announcement as to whether President Marcos will be attending this year’s summit. However, in a phone call with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung last August, PBBM said that he ‘looked forward to meeting Lee at APEC 2025.’

The Philippines has long benefited from APEC’s many initiatives. It gained access to Asia-Pacific markets with tariffs slashed significantly from 17 percent in 1989 to some five percent today. This boosted Philippine exports of electronics, semiconductors and agriculture products. APEC policies have also ushered in investments in the manufacturing, IT-BPO and infrastructure sectors, particularly from Japan, South Korea and the US. More significantly, it has eased the movements of Filipino OFWs and professionals across the Asia-Pacific.

But while the Philippines reaped many benefits, it failed to truly capitalize on APEC’s potentials in the way its neighbors have – particularly Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand.

Expensive power and logistics costs, corruption and red tape have blunted Philippine economic competitiveness and the development of its manufacturing sector. As a result, Philippine investment intakes and exports pale in comparison to those of its neighbors. Reforms relating to competition policy, regulatory transparency and good governance are slow and not fully implemented. And although APEC supports SMEs in cross-border e-commerce expansion, the lack of government support in digital advancement and financing have caused Filipino SMEs to remain insular and unable to conquer foreign markets.

The Duterte and Marcos administrations, having been too preoccupied with politicking, failed to prioritize the structural reforms needed to allow the Philippine economy to fully leverage on the opportunities APEC offers. In fact, investment conditions have worsened, with corruption reaching new heights of impunity.

To truly harness the benefits of APEC membership, the Philippines must prioritize a reform agenda aimed at boosting competitiveness. These are the top six reforms:

Energy sector reform is paramount. High electricity rates continue to cripple manufacturing investments. Transparent regulation, renewable energy expansion and improved grid efficiency are urgent.

Infrastructure and logistics modernization must be fast-tracked. Congested ports, inadequate airports and poor connectivity across islands have raised trade costs – addressing this requires sustained public-private partnerships and streamlined project approvals.

Anti-corruption, transparency in public biddings and governance reform should be institutionalized. Investors must be assured of a level playing field.

Digital transformation and SME empowerment deserve greater focus. With e-commerce driving regional trade, SMEs need government support in financing, digital literacy and cross-border platforms to expand beyond domestic markets.

Labor and education reform must align skills with future industries. Stronger STEM education, vocational training and lifelong learning will help Filipinos become more competitive.

Finally, regulatory and competition policy reform is vital. Excessive bureaucracy and restrictive laws deter innovation and discourage investment. Clearer rules, streamlined permits and genuine competition policies will level the playing field.

These six reforms, if pursued with political will, can transform the Philippines from a marginal APEC participant into a true engine of Asia-Pacific growth.

APEC brings enormous opportunities for the Philippines but the country’s present set of leaders are simply not taking full advantage of it. Let us hope the country’s next set of leaders in 2028 will do so.

PLDT resumes its quest for a three-peat feat as it clashes with a Choco Mucho squad that is hoping its import Anyse Smith can finally play in Thursday’s PVL Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The High Speed Hitters had an auspicious start following a 25-22, 25-20, 25-23 win over the Capital1 Solar Spikers at the Big Dome Monday, with Russian Anastasiia Bavykina proving a great fit to the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned franchise.

Bavykina debuted with 15 hits, but she didn’t really need to score that much with Savi Davison doing most of the attacking chores that helped seal the win and launch the reigning PVL on Tour and Invitational champion’s bid for a treble.

And PLDT coach Rald Ricafort said the team has still so much more to give.

‘We’re hoping that with the chemistry, we could jell even more,’ he said.

The Flying Titans were equally impressive in their first game after shocking the Cignal Super Spikers, 23-25, 25-19, 25-16, 27-25, despite playing minus Smith, who was forced to sit that one out due to International Transfer Certificate issues.

There’s a strong chance Smith could finally get to see action in their 6:30 p.m. showdown.

Filling the massive void in Smith’s absence were Maddie Madayag, Isa Molde, Des Cheng and Kat Tolentino, who unloaded 18, 17, 14 and 10 points, respectively.

‘Our mindset has always been to help each other despite the challenges. This was the reason we got the win,’ said Choco Mucho mentor Dante Alinsunurin.

Also eyeing to stay unbeaten in Pool A is Farm Fresh, which downed Nxled, 22-25, 25-23, 25-19, 25-21, last week in Dasmariñas following a masterful 38-point effort by Belgian thunderbolt Helene Rousseaux.

The Foxies battle the Super Spikers (0-1) at 1:30 p.m.

Completing the heavy three-game offering is the 4 p.m. clash between Capital1 (0-1) and Nxled (0-1).

Through strategic storytelling, impact-driven narratives and tech news that empower communities, the GCash Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Team earned multiple distinctions at the 21st Philippine Quill Awards 2025.

The team received honors in Women in Tech under Communication Management and in Community Relations and Diversity and Inclusion, both for GTalks.

In addition, the Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Team was named a Bronze Stevie® winner for Communications Department of the Year at the International Business Awards (IBA) 2025. These accolades underscore how GCash Corporate Communications continues to balance business growth with purposeful and sustained focus on driving inclusion, trust and meaningful impact.

Championing women in technology

At the Quill Awards, GCash was cited for its GTalks: Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Tech. The session, part of the broader GTalks series, opened dialogue on bridging the gender divide in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), where women remain underrepresented worldwide.

Through programs like GTalks, GCash has made space for more women to participate in technology-driven careers by promoting inclusive hiring, offering flexible work arrangements, and investing in ongoing learning.

Its partnerships with groups such as Connected Women and For The Women also help ensure women are equipped to lead and succeed in digital roles.

These efforts reflect commitments of GCash such as the signing of the UN Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) in 2024. Currently, half of the company’s leadership team is led by women.

‘Recognition from the Quill Awards affirms that financial technology can play a role far bigger than transactions. With platforms like GTalks, we are creating opportunities for women, the youth and underserved communities to take part in shaping the digital economy. At GCash, progress is defined by inclusion, because growth that leaves people behind is not real progress at all,’ said Gilda Maquilan, VP and head of Corporate Communications at GCash.

Communications excellence on the global stage

On the international front, the company’s corporate communications team was honored at the 2025 Stevie® Awards where it received the Bronze Stevie for Communications Department of the Year. The recognition reflects the team’s role in building confidence in digital finance, guiding public conversations on fintech and amplifying the broader purpose-driven initiatives of GCash.

Over the past two years, the team has supported major milestones, from helping position GCash as the first Philippine company in the World Economic Forum Unicorn Community, they have also been instrumental in promoting programs such as GForest, which has supported the planting of over 4 million trees, and the GCash Eco Run, which encouraged 12,000 Filipinos nationwide to take part in climate action.

By earning distinction both locally and abroad, GCash demonstrates how a Philippine fintech brand can stand as a leader in both innovation and advocacy, championing financial access while also using its platform to push for equality, sustainability and nation-building.

As his administration faces a public works corruption controversy, President Marcos yesterday highlighted two infrastructure projects in Cagayan as examples of properly implemented and effective government undertakings.

Marcos led the inauguration of the Union Water Impounding Dam in Claveria, designed to protect rice fields from flooding and provide year-round irrigation to boost crop yields.

He also inspected the nearly completed Camalaniugan Bridge, which will connect the towns of Aparri and Camalaniugan.

During a dialogue with farmers, Marcos said the completion of the Union Water Impounding Dam demonstrated that it is possible to implement an effective and reliable flood mitigation project.

‘That means we have proven that we can construct a good flood control (structure) that is effective. As long as the construction is done properly, the design is sound and the implementation is proper, we do not see any problem,’ the President said in Filipino.

Marcos noted that the dam was finished in only 14 months.

‘It started during my term. It also ended during my term,’ he said.

The dam, a joint project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), features a sluice gate system that diverts water to irrigate up to 3,600 hectares of farmland.

Part of a broader flood control, irrigation and rural development strategy, the structure is expected to benefit more than 1,000 farmers across seven barangays.

After meeting with farmers, Marcos visited the Camalaniugan Bridge, which aims to cut travel time, improve mobility and boost economic activity in the region.

Considered the longest cable-stayed bridge in Cagayan Valley, the project was designed to provide an alternate route to the Magapit Suspension Bridge, the only bridge that currently crosses the Cagayan River in northern Cagayan.

Construction began in May 2020, with 99 percent of civil works completed as of Sept. 30.

‘We are looking at one of the most beautiful bridges that we have created in the Philippines. And I’m happy to note that it was done as well on time and it was done properly,’ Marcos said.

The President commended the agencies and local officials who closely monitored the construction, expressing hope that the bridge would open by Christmas.

‘They are really watching over this huge project to avoid problems, so it won’t end up becoming a ghost project that is not finished, problems that we sometimes see in other projects,’ he said.

‘It is really nice to see the true capability of the government if each centavo is used properly,’ he added.

The bridge is expected to reduce travel time between Aparri and Ballesteros towns from one hour to 20 minutes and serve about 6,000 travelers daily.

When GCash celebrates its birthday, everyone’s invited to the party. Starting October 15, the country’s leading finance super app is set to unveil exciting surprises to celebrate with everyone through a Surprise Birthday Shake Away.

GCash users will be surprised with chances to win exciting rewards and surprises every day from October 15 to 31. Big prizes include GCash credits, gift certificates, a home appliance showcase, an iPhone 16, a motorcycle, and even the all-new BYD Seal 5 DM-i Dynamic hybrid car.

Joining is easy. Simply log in to the GCash app, tap the promo banner, and shake your phone to earn a raffle entry. The more GCash services you use, such as Send Money, Buy Load, or Pay Bills, the bigger the prizes you can win.

The surprise does not stop there, as you shake your phone for a chance to win, PPop’s Female Alpha, G22, turns up the birthday energy with the GCash Surprise Birthday Shake Away jingle and dance craze, inviting everyone to move, groove, and celebrate the GCash way.

Users and fans alike can share, dance, and post their birthday moves on social media to celebrate the nationwide birthday fever of fun, music, and surprises.

The dynamic duo of JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano kicked off the newest season of ‘Your Face Sounds Familiar’ with a bang as they were hailed the first weekly winners for their breathtaking impersonation of Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion.

Their stirring rendition of the timeless ballad ‘The Prayer’ captivated both the jury composed of Gary Valenciano, Ogie Alcasid, and Sharon Cuneta and their fellow contestants, earning them the top spot on the leaderboard.

JM and Marielle shared that their victory was the result of their teamwork, as performing as the iconic duo posed a unique challenge. ‘Sobrang saya. Medyo challenging para sa amin ni JM bilang kami ang nag-iisang duo sa season na ito,’ Marielle said.

As weekly winners, the pair took home a trophy and ?50,000. Their closest competitor was Jason Dy, whose impressive transformation as Erik Santos earned him the highest marks from the jury panel.

Meanwhile, the return of the show became a social media hit, with hashtags #YFSFisback, #YFSF1stWinner, and #YFSFKaSound securing top trending spots on X. Clips of the celebrity performers’ transformations also drew millions of views online and sparked excitement among netizens eager to see what’s next.

Audiences can look forward to more amazing transformations, world-class performances, and fun-filled moments in the coming weeks as the celebrity contestants return to the Iconator to take on new music legends in their quest for the ?1 million grand prize.

Get to see JM and Marielle as Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, Jason Dy as Sam Smith, Pepe Herrera as Steven Tyler, Akira Morishita as Harry Styles, Alexa Ilacad as Connie Francis, Dia Mate as Maymay Entrata, Jarlo Base as Jay-R, and Rufa Mae Quinto as Cyndi Lauper.

‘Your Face Sounds Familiar’ airs Saturdays, 7:15 pm on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, and A2Z. Viewers can also catch it on TV5 every Saturday, at 8:15 pm, and Sundays, at 8:30 pm.

The Meralco Bolts ended their two-game skid in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup after pulling away late against the tough Blackwater Bossing, 105-96, Wednesday evening at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Meralco finally tallied their first win in the All-Filipino conference, rising to 1-2, while Blackwater dropped to 1-1.

Chris Newsome powered the Bolts with 22 points on 6-of-9 shooting off the bench. Cliff Hodge added 14 markers, while Brandon Bates and Allein Maliksi had 13 points apiece.

After close losses in their first two games, Meralco led by as much as 24 points, 65-41, in the third quarter against the young Blackwater squad.

But a 24-8 run by the Bossing sliced the deficit to single digit, 65-73, after a 4-pointer by RK Ilagan.

Ilagan continued to tow Blackwater back, as his triple pulled them to within three, 81-84, with 8:38 left in the game.

But a backbreaking 11-0 run broke the game wide open, turning the advantage to 14, 95-81, with 4:37 to go.

While Blackwater cut the lead to single digit several times down the stretch, they could not come closer than eight points.

Raymond Almazan tallied 12 points and eight rebounds for Meralco, while Aaron Black chipped in 11 markers.

Sedrick Barefield paced Blackwater with 34 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals also off the bench, while Ilagan chipped in 22 points, three assists and two rebounds.

The Bolts will have a quick turnaround as they take on Barangay Ginebra on Friday at the same venue, while Blackwater will return to action next Friday against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at the Ynares Antipolo.

Sarah and Curlee Discaya will no longer cooperate with the investigation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) after personal and unofficial remarks by one of the body’s members led the contractor couple to doubt their possibility of becoming state witnesses.

ICI Executive Director Brian Keith Hosaka told reporters on Wednesday, October 15, that the Discayas invoked their right to self-incrimination during the commission’s closed-door hearing earlier.

This, Hosaka said, was upon the advice of their lawyer.

“The spouses Discaya appeared before the commission, and, upon the advice of their counsel, they invoked their right to self-incrimination and manifested they will no longer cooperate with the ICI,” the ICI executive director said.

The Discayas had supposedly believed their cooperation would lead to a favorable recommendation from the commission for them to be turned into state witnesses.

Hosaka said the Discayas referred to an interview by journalist Karen Davila with ICI member and former Public Works Secretary Babes Singson, where Singson was asked about the possibility of the commission recommending witnesses for immunity.

It was Singson’s personal opinion that there are currently “no witness or person who may be recommended by the commission as state witness,” Hosaka said.

“I saw the interview and he qualified that as his own and not (by the ICI),” Singson said.

However, the Discayas saw this and “because of that, they are saying they will no longer appear before the commission,” the ICI executive director said.

The Discayas are currently classified as “protected witnesses” by the Department of Justice in the ongoing government probe into anomalous infrastructure projects.

This status provides them with government security and protection under the Witness Protection Program, but it does not automatically grant them the full immunity of a state witness.

Then-Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier said that prospective witnesses must first return ill-gotten wealth or assets before they can be tagged as state witnesses – a process known as restitution.

Remulla also previously explained that granting anyone full state witness status would free them from criminal liability, which means the government must be “very careful” in deciding to do so.

Being diagnosed and then told that you have diabetes is not a death sentence.

Yes, it is true that once you have it, you cannot just shoo it away. Diabetes is a lifelong condition, which happens when the body cannot produce enough insulin or use it properly, thus leading to elevated blood sugar levels over time. You have to refrain from eating too much sweets, carbohydrates and a whole lot of other stuff to keep your blood sugar level from spiking.

In the Philippines, over 4.7 million adults live with diabetes and many do not even know it until symptoms or complications appear. Family history, poor eating habits, and a lack of physical activity are common risk factors – but the good news is, diabetes can be managed.

You may have to live with diabetes once you reach that point, but it does not have to stop you from living fully. If left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health complications – but with the right care, you can stay in control.

For many, nutrition becomes a turning point when incorporated as part of a healthy lifestyle program. You cannot just keep your sugar and carbohydrate intake in control. Your nutrition program has to be already be geared towards diabetes control, and that means eating the proper food and incorporating nutritional supplements that will help you keep your blood sugar in check.

Studies have shown that diabetes-specific nutritional supplements such as Glucerna provide complete and balanced nutrients to support those with diabetes and are clinically proven to help deliver better blood sugar control.

No amount of lecture, though, could compare with a direct and personal encounter with persons who are living with diabetes and are not just surviving but thriving in spite of their health condition.

Edna Panaligan Sta. Ana, Ramon Borromeo and Salvador Baroro share their real life stories and suggest real solutions to the problem. They have found ways to integrate proper nutrition and daily movement into a sustainable lifestyle, proving that managing diabetes can also mean thriving.

Developing structured daily routine

Edna Panaligan Sta. Ana, 64, received her diabetes diagnosis during a routine health screening at a local mall. Although her mother was diagnosed with diabetes, Edna was convinced she had ‘escaped it.’

That belief changed quickly when her blood sugar was recorded at 200 mg/dL, significantly higher than the typical random blood glucose level of 125 mg/dL or lower. Shocked but determined, she immediately took action.

Upon her diagnosis in 2003, Edna immediately developed a structured daily routine anchored on prevention. Her mornings begin with light indoor cycling or a walk around her garden. She prepares home-cooked meals rich in vegetables and fiber.

Her advocacy extends beyond her home: Edna runs a Facebook page called Elderly of Santa Maria Bulacan, where she shares health tips and nutritional inspirations for fellow elderly Filipinos.

Thanks to her consistency, Edna now maintains her blood sugar at a healthier range of 120 mg/dL. Her story shows that living well with diabetes is not about restrictions but about creating daily habits and nutritional strategies that support energy, health, and independence in older adults.

Overhauling old lifestyle

Ramon Borromeo, 62, a retired seaman, discovered he had diabetes in 1990 during a required medical exam before boarding a ship. Unlike others, he had no symptoms at the time, but the diagnosis motivated him to overhaul his lifestyle. He cut out sugary food, switched to a low-carb diet, and made sure to take his medications on every sea voyage.

In 2024, after experiencing nighttime chills and shaking – which are often signs of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar – his doctor advised him to take one serving of the nutritional supplement. The effect was both physical and emotional: his blood sugar dropped from 162 mg/dL to 108 mg/dL, and he no longer wakes up trembling but enjoys uninterrupted sleep.

Ramon’s case illustrates the significant benefits of managing glucose variability – particularly during the night, a challenge often overlooked in individuals who have lived with diabetes for many years. His improved sleep quality and better glycemic control highlight the importance of tailored evening nutrition strategies for older adults with diabetes.

Sharp pivot

Salvador Baroro, 64, saw his blood sugar reach 332 mg/dL in 2015, and it became a moment of reckoning in his life. A longtime bakery and grocery store owner, he ate what he wanted and thought little of long-term consequences.

After his diagnosis, Salvador made a sharp pivot. He closed his store, retired early, and committed to daily hikes on nearby mountain trails. In 2018, with encouragement from his doctor, he began drinking the diabetes-specific supplement in the morning and evening.

‘It helped keep me full and replaced the bad habits I used to reward myself with,’ Salvador said.

As a result, his blood sugar normalized to 105 mg/dL, and he shed nearly 60 kilograms in body weight. Beyond the numbers, Salvador found new structure, freedom, and mental clarity.

His case is a striking example of how combining regular physical activity with a diet incorporating diabetes-specific formula can help reshape not just health, but also quality of life.

Managing diabetes with nutrition

Edna, Ramon, and Salvador are living proof that life with diabetes does not have to mean giving up the things you love. Their journeys highlight how proper nutrition can be a powerful ally in managing diabetes effectively.

Science-backed solutions provide structured nutritional support that helps regulate blood sugar through slow glucose release, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced cardio-metabolic health – especially when paired with medication and regular physical activity.

The key is not restriction – it is balance. By incorporating diabetes-specific formulas into the daily routine, you can build healthier habits that are not only easier to maintain but also more sustainable in the long run. With the right knowledge, consistent daily actions, and supportive tools, small steps can lead to meaningful and lasting progress.

Former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson is prodding the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to immediately start the construction of the P17.75-billion Metro Manila Subway, saying the three-year delay has pushed the project’s completion to 2032.

Singson, president and chairman of the LCS Group of Companies which owns the Metrowalk commercial hub in Pasig, said his company issued to the DOTr a permit-to-enter on Sept. 30, 2022, but construction has yet to commence.

‘We are appealing to DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez to immediately start the long-delayed construction of the Metro Manila Subway,’ Singson said.

He noted that the project, which was awarded to Megawide Construction Corp. in partnership with Japan’s Tokyu Construction and Tobishima Corp., has been stalled despite all preparations in place.

‘The construction should start right away,’ Singson said, adding that the prolonged delay undermines efforts to ease Metro Manila’s worsening traffic congestion