Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

The national government will be extending more than P100 million in additional assistance to Masbate to help in the rehabilitation of the province worst hit by Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi) last week.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Wednesday ordered the Department of Budget and Management to release P100 million in Local Government Support Fund to the local government, upon the request of Masbate Governor Richard Kho.

During the distribution of assistance to the affected families in Masbate City on Wednesday, Marcos said the government would provide continued support to them including food, medicine, and cash assistance, until necessary.

‘Do not worry, the government’s support will continue for as long as you need it. Even if it takes some time because your homes are not yet repaired, we are already here extending our support,’ the President said in his remarks at Nursery Elementary School in Masbate City.

‘No one will be left behind. Even after the typhoon has passed, your government will still be here. We will not leave until all evacuees and everyone affected by the typhoon are back on their feet and have recovered,’ he added.

The President told Masbate residents not to hesitate in asking for help from the government-either from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), or their city and provincial government. During his visit, the President led distribution of family food packs, hygiene kits, 10-meter laminated sacks, water filtration kits and the P10,000 cash assistance each to 600 families through the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), amounting to P264.96 million. Marcos also announced the P28 million worth of aid released by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to the provincial government of Masbate intended for livelihood assistance and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged Workers (Tupad) beneficiaries.

Marcos also ordered the Department of Education (DepEd) to rehabilitate the 806 damaged classrooms in the province within a month.

Aside from the distribution of aid, he also visited Masbate Provincial Hospital to personally inspect its damaged facilities.

Marcos turned over a facsimile check worth P3 million from the Department of Health (DOH) to the provincial government for repair works.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has secured its third and broadest freeze order yet under the ongoing flood control corruption probe, widening a crackdown that has now immobilized 1,813 assets worth nearly P3 billion.

In a statement, the AMLC said the Court of Appeals (CA) issued the Sept. 30 directive covering 836 bank accounts, 12 e-wallets, 24 insurance policies, 81 vehicles and 12 properties.

The order built on two earlier directives and marks the most extensive asset freeze since the inquiry began.

‘Disrupting financial channels’

In all, the appeals court has frozen 1,563 bank accounts, 54 insurance policies, 154 vehicles, 30 properties and 12 e-wallets-assets with an estimated value of P2.9 billion.

The AMLC said the figure is expected to increase as the probe deepens.

‘By freezing a wide range of assets-such as bank accounts, e-wallets, vehicles, and properties-the AMLC is disrupting the financial channels used in corrupt activities,’ said Matthew David, the council’s executive director.

‘Our goal is straightforward: prevent stolen public funds from being dissipated and misused, recover them for the National Government, and ensure that those involved in money laundering are held accountable,’ he added.

Lawmakers’ assets

Last week, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the AMLC was also preparing to block the assets of six individuals-including some lawmakers-being sued by the National Bureau of Investigation.

When a bank account is frozen, all activity-transfers, deposits, withdrawals and even account closures-comes to a halt. Banks are then required to comb through the accounts and review past transactions to determine whether they were used for illicit activity. Their findings are sent to the AMLC.

The freeze orders also covered insurance policies because they can serve as vehicles for concealing or moving illegal funds. For now, the AMLC is prioritizing such assets because they are easier to identify, locate and freeze.

Banks, personal properties

The directives may soon extend far beyond financial accounts, cars and real estate. David earlier said the council might also ask the CA to freeze personal properties-such as investments, jewelry and even virtual assets-if they are linked to the misuse of public funds.

He said the watchdog might also scrutinize banks after a congressional inquiry flagged large cash transactions linked to the flood control scandal, though he declined to confirm whether such a probe was already underway.

Anytime Fitness Asia has achieved a historic milestone, celebrating the network’s growth to 500 clubs across the region. To mark the occasion, eight clubs across eight markets hosted synchronized grand openings on the same day, highlighting the scale and unity of the brand’s fast-growing network.

With Anytime Fitness Asia recently recognized as the Overall Winner – International Franchisor of the Year at the 2025 Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) Singapore Awards, the 500th club milestone further underscores the brand’s leadership and credibility in the region. ‘This milestone is a powerful symbol of our growth and unity,’ said Luke Guanlao, Group CEO of Inspire Brands Asia (IBA). ‘With more than 5,600 clubs across 42 countries, Anytime Fitness is the world’s largest 24-hour fitness franchise – and our purpose, Train For Your Life, drives us to be more than a gym. Reaching 500 clubs in Asia is just the beginning, and we’re committed to expanding further into new markets while continuing to be a lifetime partner in health and wellness.’ Johannes Raadsma, President and Co-Founder of Inspire Brands Asia (IBA), added: ‘Every one of our 500 clubs tells a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community. This milestone highlights not only our growth, but also the trust of our members and the dedication of our staff, franchisees, and partners who make our network thrive and united across Asia.’

On 19 September, synchronized events took place at AF McKinley West in the Philippines, AF Tampines in Singapore, AF Austin Green in Malaysia, AF Hang Hau in Hong Kong, AF Citimall Cimanggis in Indonesia, AF Oasis Ratchapruek in Thailand, AF Taoyuan Yiwen in Taiwan, and AF Vincom Grand Park in Vietnam. The milestone celebrations were hosted across a mix of corporate-owned and independent franchisee clubs, reflecting the collective strength, entrepreneurship, and community spirit that drive Anytime Fitness’s growth across Asia.

The milestone was held at Anytime Fitness McKinley West, located in the heart of Taguig’s vibrant community in McKinley West community. Located near residential areas, offices, and commercial hubs, Anytime Fitness McKinley West makes it easy to prioritize your health and wellness without compromising your lifestyle. It offers 24/7 Access to accommodate you based on your schedule, Group Classes for a fun and engaging sessions to keep you energized and consistent. State of the art equipment in Cardio Equipements, free weights, functional training zones, and strength equipment.

Anytime Fitness continues to differentiate itself by combining global reach with local impact. With its 24-hour access model, integrated coaching ecosystem, and strong community ties, the brand has positioned itself as Asia’s most accessible and trusted fitness network.

Defending champion Mapua opened its NCAA Season 101 campaign with a dramatic 90-89 double-overtime victory over Lyceum on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With team captain Clint Escamis fouling out late in regulation, it was JC Recto who carried the Cardinals in crunch time. The veteran forward tallied 16 points and nine rebounds, delivering clutch plays in both overtime periods to lift Mapua past a gritty Lyceum side. ‘I just let my instincts take over,’ said Recto, who was thrust into the spotlight after Escamis exited with only eight points. ‘All I thought about was doing whatever the coaches asked me to do.’

Recto tied the game at 80-all with a three-point play in the first overtime, neutralizing a late Pirates surge. He did it again in the second extra period, converting another and-one to pull Mapua even at 87-all in the final minute.

With the game knotted and time winding down, it was rookie guard Cyrus Cuenco who sealed the win. Fouled by Lyceum’s Lance Aurigue with 12 seconds left, Cuenco calmly hit the second of two free throws to give Mapua the final lead. Cuenco finished with 14 points, while Earl Sapasap and Yam Concepcion chipped in 16 and 13 points, respectively, for the Cardinals, who began their title defense with a statement win.

Mapua, which won the NCAA title last season after ending a decades-long championship drought, showed its depth and resilience despite missing key contributions from Escamis down the stretch.

The loss spoiled a strong effort from Lyceum’s Renz Villegas, who poured in 23 points. Michael Versoza also registered a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, but the Pirates failed to close out the game on multiple opportunities.

MANILA, Philippines-La Salle survived a furious fourth-quarter rally to edge Far Eastern University, 74-72, and return to the win column of the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament on Wednesday at UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Green Archers dodged a late-game bullet when FEU’s Jorick Bautista missed a wide-open layup with seven seconds left that could have tied the game. La Salle then ran down the clock to seal the victory.

Coming off a tough loss to University of Santo Tomas, La Salle improved to 2-1 for solo fourth place ahead of their rivalry clash with Ateneo on Sunday. ‘Coming off a loss, you really want to win. We had stretches where we played really well, but in the UAAP, you can’t expect easy wins. FEU came back strong,’ said La Salle deputy coach Caloy Garcia.

La Salle led by as many as 13 points heading into the fourth, 64-51, but saw its cushion quickly evaporate. FEU stormed back behind Mo Konateh, Janrey Pasaol, Bautista, and Jedric Daa, cutting the deficit to one, 69-70, with 2:25 left. But Mason Amos and Doy Dungo answered with clutch baskets to push La Salle ahead, 74-69. Bautista buried a triple to make it 72-74 with under a minute to play, before missing the game-tying attempt in the final seconds.

Dungo, a former UST Tiger Cub, led La Salle with 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting in place of the injured Kean Baclaan (ankle sprain).?’I just stepped up because we were short on players. I stayed composed and ready,’ said Dungo.

Amos added 14 points, four assists, and three rebounds, while Jacob Cortez also had 14 points. EJ Gollena contributed 13 points and eight rebounds. Mike Phillips, though limited to six points, hauled down 13 boards and dished out nine assists.

FEU dropped to 0-3, joining University of the East at the bottom of the standings. Pasaol paced the Tamaraws with 25 points, while Konateh had 14 points and 10 rebounds. Mongcopa added 13 points and Bautista finished with 10.

FEU faces Adamson next on Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.

University of Santo Tomas coach Pido Jarencio was officially listed as team governor of Terrafirma for the PBA’s 50th season, which starts this weekend.

Jarencio’s name was listed on the team’s official roster carrying the said capacity after serving as team manager of NorthPort for the last few seasons. The PBA legend has been rumored to join the Dyip for weeks, and was tightlipped when he was asked by The Inquirer after the UAAP Season 88 press conference.

He had different roles during his time with NorthPort, first as a coach before he switched roles with Bonnie Tan in 2023.

Several NorthPort officials left while the Batang Pier were in the process of being purchased by Pureblends Corporation, with team governor Erick Arejola now with Magnolia as assistant team manager.

Waiyip Chong, NorthPort’s assistant team manager, now serves as Terrafirma’s team manager while Jeff Napa and Jarencio’s son Jared is now part of Ronald Tubid’s coaching staff.

Terrafirma enters the season with a bevy of new players after failed bids to sell the franchise to Starhorse and the Zamboanga Valientes.

The Dyip selected 6-foot-9 Geo Chiu as the No. 1 overall pick in the Rookie Draft, but will only be available after his MPBL campaign with the Abra Weavers.

Classes are suspended in several areas of Cebu on Wednesday, October 1, following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake Tuesday night.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the earthquake’s epicenter was located 21 kilometers northeast of Bogo City, Cebu, at a depth of 5 kilometers. The tectonic quake occurred at 9:59 p.m Classes are suspended in the following:

Lapu-Lapu City: all levels, public and private schools

Carcar City: face-to-face classes in public schools; secondary schools, Carcar City College

San Fernando: all levels, public and private schools

Cebu City: all levels

Alegria: all levels

Mandaue City: all levels, public and private schools

Talisay City: public elementary and secondary schools

Tabogon: all levels, public and private schools

Bogo City: all levels, public and private schools

Minglanilla: all levels, public and private schools

Consolacion: face-to-face classes; pre-school to college

Barili: all levels

Liloan: all levels, public and private (including work) Phivolcs also said aftershocks and damage to properties are expected./mcm

When it comes to training, consistency is everything. Fitness isn’t built overnight-it takes weeks, or even months, of putting in the work. But the trick is to stay active every day, while still knowing when to rest. And that balance is what makes progress stick.

The challenge? Travel. Being away from home can easily throw us off our rhythm. But with a little planning, you don’t have to lose momentum. Here are some ways to stay fit, even when you’re out of town.

Being away from home can easily throw us off our rhythm. But with a little planning, you don’t have to lose momentum.

Time your trips around training

One smart move is to use travel as your built-in recovery week. After pushing your body with consistent workouts, we all need days of unloading to bounce back stronger. So if you can, plan your trips during these lighter phases. More experienced athletes sometimes push harder before traveling, then scale back while away-just doing light cardio or bodyweight movements to maintain baseline fitness.But if that’s not your style, no problem. The key is adjusting your mindset and routine, so you keep moving, even if it’s not your usual setup.

Bodyweight workouts

Don’t underestimate bodyweight training-it’s not ‘just for beginners.’ You can break a serious sweat with no equipment at all. YouTube is full of solid routines, but here’s a simple one you can try:

Circuit training (minimal rest between moves, one to two minutes of rest between rounds):

Push-ups (as many as possible)

Chair dips (12 to 15 reps)

Lunges (alternating, as many as possible)

Squats (15 to 20 reps)

Spiderman plank (15 to 20 reps per side)

V-ups (15 to 20 reps)

Plank (as long as you can)

Run it out

Running is the ultimate travel workout-simple, effective, and you can do it almost anywhere. Just pack your shoes and a weather-appropriate outfit. But before you head out, check if the area is safe for running or ask locals where it’s best to go.

Sample session:

15-minute warm-up jog

6 reps of four minutes of running, then one minute of walking

20-minute steady jog or brisk walk

5-minute cool down Try yoga

When I first tried yoga, I thought it would be easy. Big mistake. Fifteen minutes in, I was sweaty, shaking, and way out of my comfort zone. That’s the beauty of yoga-it challenges strength, flexibility, balance, breathing, and focus all at once. Perfect for travel since you don’t need much space.

Walk more (skip the cab)

Travel is the perfect excuse to walk more. Instead of always booking a cab, try taking public transport or just exploring on foot. Not only do you burn calories and log steps, but you also get to experience the city more authentically. Depending on your destination, safety and convenience may vary, so do your research. But even five to 10 kilometers of walking a day adds up fast.

Pro tip: Wear comfy sneakers, carry extra shirts, and don’t be shy about using Google Maps if you get lost.

Final thoughts: It’s not about being perfect

No matter where you’re headed, keep in mind that trips can double as both rest and movement opportunities. Mix in recovery (stretching, yoga, or even breathwork), adjust your routines, and remember, fitness isn’t about being perfect. We train so we can enjoy life more, not to let workouts control us.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to decide on Wednesday whether it will postpone the first Bangsamoro parliamentary polls following the suspension of preparations for the elections.

During the Kapihan sa Manila Bay on Wednesday, Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia shared this development, noting that the seven-person Comelec en banc will hold its session to decide on this matter.

‘Maybe later in the afternoon, the Commission on Elections will have a decision whether to postpone [the elections] or not,’ Garcia said.

The Comelec suspended the preparations for the elections, starting September 17, in compliance with the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court to the poll body and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority from implementing Bangsamoro Autonomy Act (BAA) No. 77, the law that redistributes the seven seats originally allocated to Sulu province.

Garcia earlier said the poll body was eyeing the postponement of the Bangsamoro elections on the recommendation of its Project Management Office and law department, in the absence of a clear law guiding the distribution of parliamentary districts in the region.

Garcia also shared that the poll body received position papers from all stakeholders, with many of them recommending the postponement of the elections.

Garcia noted that the pendency of the case of the BAA No. 77 before the Supreme Court and the TRO will be the basis of their decision on the postponement.

However, Garcia said the poll body is not blaming the Supreme Court for the status of the cases in relation to the elections filed before the high court.

He added that the Comelec could invoke the poll body’s powers to postpone the elections under Section 5 of the Omnibus Election Code.

The provision states that the Comelec shall postpone the elections ‘for any serious cause such as violence, terrorism, loss or destruction of election paraphernalia or records, force majeure, and other analogous causes of such a nature that the holding of a free, orderly and honest election should become impossible in any political subdivision.’ /cb

Ayala Corp. has signed a deal to bring another grocery format to the Philippines, this time United Arab Emirates-based Spinneys, which will likewise mark its debut in Asia.

Under the partnership, Ayala will hold a 60-percent stake, while Spinneys will own the remaining 40 percent, Spinneys said in a press statement issued in Dubai dated Sept. 30.

The partnership marks Spinneys’ first venture outside of the Gulf area.

The company said this was ‘aligned with its strategy to broaden its geographic footprint by entering structurally attractive high-growth markets.’

The collaboration is also seen to signify Ayala’s growing stake in the retail sector, as it continues to bring more international brands to the Philippine market.

New chapter

Just recently, Ayala signed a deal to bring warehouse club Makro to the country.

‘Spinneys’ expansion into Southeast Asia marks an exciting new chapter for us. The Philippines offers significant long-term growth potential, with strong economic fundamentals, a growing affluent population, and increasing demand for high-quality offerings,’ said Sunil Kumar, CEO at Spinneys.

‘With a growing middle and upper-income population, the Philippines is seeing a clear shift in consumer expectations creating a strong opportunity for a modern, premium retail offering like ours. Our partnership with Ayala combines its deep local knowledge with our operational expertise, providing a strong foundation to grow in a measured way. As we enter this next phase, we’re delighted to be bringing our highquality and fresh offering to a new region,’ Kumar added.

Ayala president and CEO Cezar Consing said the country’s oldest conglomerate was honored to be the first partner of Spinneys as it ventures outside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Trade with GCC

‘We hope this investment will catalyze trade and investment between the Philippines and the GCC. At Ayala, we take pride in partnering with some of the world’s leading companies and working alongside them to bring world-class products and services to the Philippines,’ he added.

Retail holding firm Spinneys Holding 1961 has been operating in the UAE since 1961. It became a publicly-listed company in 2024.

Based on its 2024 annual report, it had at least 80 stores in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman.

Revenues last year stood at AED 3.2 billion ($870 million) while net profit amounted to AED 290 million ($78.95 million).

Its core focus is food, with more than 85 percent of retail revenues generated from food products. Within the food segment, it focuses on ‘fresh’ food, which makes up more than 63 percent of total retail revenues.