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Snacking, a beloved part of Filipino life, often serves as a quick pick-me-up or a shared moment with loved ones. It’s in these everyday moments that we find a unique opportunity to become more present and intentional about how we nourish ourselves. And it’s the right time to ‘snack mindfully.’

Mondelez International, in partnership with nutritionist-dietitian Jo Sebastian, held an event at Common Ground in Rockwell recently, which aimed to help Filipinos transform ‘mindless’ snacking habits into truly #MindfulSnacking experiences-and making every bite a #SnackNaSwak moment for overall well-being.

In the live session, Sebastian guided participants through hands-on activities such as the ‘Portion Puzzle,’ where guests learned how to read nutrition labels, manage portion sizes, and create snack combinations that stay within a mindful 250-calorie range.

This supports data from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), which says each snack must be within the 250 calorie range. The takeaway was clear: balance isn’t about saying ‘no’ to your favorite treats; it’s about knowing how they fit into your day.

Arlene Reario, president of the Philippine Association of Nutrition (PAN), also supported this message, saying that through clearer and informative packaging, portion-controlled options, and continuous product innovation, Filipinos can make informed, mindful choices. Avoiding overindulgence and choosing what’s right

Mindful snacking is a simple yet profound idea: choosing and savoring snacks with attention and intention. It’s about finding that sweet spot between enjoyment and wellness, leading to satisfaction and increased awareness of what and how much we consume.

This practice supports both body and mind, helping individuals make smart choices that contribute positively to their well-being.

Snacking is one of life’s simplest pleasures. Whether it’s a quick bite to refuel, a quiet pause in a busy day, or a shared merienda with friends and family. In many ways, it nourishes not just the body, but the small moments in between.

It is almost second nature to reach for a quick pick-me-up at certain times of the day, and because snacking comes so easily, it is a good opportunity to become more present in the way we choose and enjoy what we eat.

A shift toward intentional choices

As more Filipinos become more proactive and intentional about their well-being, there is a natural shift toward making more informed food decisions.

Without this awareness, even everyday indulgences can feel uncertain. Nutrition labels go unread, portion sizes become guesswork, and the line between enjoyment and overindulgence blurs. What emerges is not a lack of enjoyment, but a lack of clarity.

‘Snack na Swak’ is an initiative designed to navigate their snack choices with confidence, transforming ‘mindless’ habits into ‘mindful’ experiences.

This is anchored on reading nutrition labels-and understanding them, choosing the right portions for snacks, and enjoying your snacks fully by being present in the moment.

There is no need to give up the snacks that bring comfort and delight. An iconic twist of Oreo cookies, the creamy taste of Cadbury Dairy Milk, or the crisp bite of Tiger Energy Biscuits can still be part of a balanced lifestyle.

By approaching these favorites with intention, they become more than just a quick bite-they become a conscious act of self-care. Very crucial when other things are out of your control.

By combining education with meaningful engagement, Mindful Snacking empowers Filipinos to embrace a holistic relationship with food. Every treat can truly be #SnackNaSwak: simple, satisfying and thoughtfully enjoyable.

As the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night approaches, frontrunners are stepping into the spotlight with a mix of preparation, reflection, and anticipation.

At the recent announcement of the pageant’s official shoe partner, Safatos Marikina, several candidates opened up about how they are gearing up for the finals.

La Union’s Bea Millan-Windorski, a strong fan favorite, said she is embracing the intensity of the competition. ‘I’m excited to work my hardest during these long hours because I know I only have a short time to give it my all,’ she shared.

Bella Ysmael of Taguig, who previously placed as a runner-up in 2020, emphasized discipline and presence.

‘My best preparation is to train and stay focused, while also learning to be in the moment,’ she said.

Cebu Province’s bet, Nicole Borromeo, who has prior international pageant experience, underscored the importance of balance. While preparations have been ‘wonderful,’ she noted that rest is just as vital.

‘Recovery and rest are part of recharging for what is to come,’ the Cebuana beauty said.

Roxie Baeyens of Baguio, meanwhile, is choosing to savor the experience.

‘I just want to enjoy every moment while I still can. It all goes by so fast,’ the beauty queen-actress said.

Manila’s Justine Felizarta, a seasoned pageant contender, highlighted consistency in training.

‘It’s about continuing our QandA [question and answer], pasarela, and overall preparation, while also making time to recharge and appreciate the journey,’ she shared.

Next titleholder?

Beyond preparation, the candidates also reflected on the qualities they believe define the next Miss Universe Philippines.

For Windorski, it is her advocacy-driven mindset. With a background in working with non-profits, she hopes to use the platform to advance causes close to her heart, particularly creating local economic opportunities for Filipinos.

Ysmael pointed to personal growth since her last stint in 2020. ‘I’ve learned that I’m more capable than I once thought,’ she said, adding that she continues to push herself across different fields, from business to the arts.

Borromeo highlighted optimism and connection as her strengths. ‘I like to think I have the ability to encourage others and bring people together,’ she said.

Baeyens, for her part, cited her acting background as an advantage.

‘It has given me a deeper understanding of different women’s experiences,’ she said, noting that this aligns with the pageant’s focus on women’s empowerment. She also shared that her work as a motivational speaker allows her to inspire others.

Felizarta reflected on her 12-year pageant journey as a testament to her perseverance. ‘It shows my grit and how far I’ve come, both locally and internationally,’ she said, adding that she is ready to bring preparation and adaptability to the global stage if given the chance.

‘I’m excited for what’s to come, and if it’s meant for me, I will represent the Philippines in the best way I can,’ Felizarta added.

The Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night is set for May 2, with 50 candidates competing to succeed Miss Universe 2025 third runner-up Ma. Ahtisa Manalo.

The winner will go on to represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant’s diamond edition in Puerto Rico later this year.

Back when President Bongbong Marcos and relatives were seriously discussing the idea of a ‘presidential run,’ one of his cousins claimed to have opposed the idea for several reasons.

First of all, the Marcos-Romualdez clan had gone through the experience under a Marcos presidency and ‘look where it got us?’

The relative also pointed out that the second generation as well as the third generation Marcoses and Romualdezes were all doing well and occupied various positions in government. Something hard to imagine after EDSA 1.

God forbid, would the clan be willing to go through a repeat of history and who would be there to protect their necks or what army could they rely on to defend them? Little did he realize his words were prophetic.

As it turns out, they now have an extended simmering family feud, complete with scandalous public revelations and veiled threats. Even worse, they are embroiled in much the same way their parents, titos and titas were, neck deep in claims, suspicions, even charges of corruption, conspiracy and amassing ill-gotten wealth.

George Santayana said: ‘Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it’ and we often think this applies only to the Filipino people who keep voting or choosing the wrong set of leaders.

I would say that the warning also applies to the Marcoses and the Romualdezes. Clearly, only one short branch of the family knew enough to know what disaster awaits all if things got out of hand, which they have.

Unfortunately, like all Filipino families, that does not relieve them of the embarrassment, discomfort and annoyance towards family members who have caused the innocents so much ‘kahihiyan.’

What about the rest of us? What lessons can we derive from what Harry Belafonte called ‘shame and scandal in the family?’ How can it be that, with all the power and the wealth, people still recklessly ‘gamble’ for more, and sometimes at all cost? How much is enough?

The first cause is pride. We become too full of ourselves when we are able to get away with something. It’s not an adrenaline rush, it’s a shot of pride fueling our ego and making us believe that ‘We did it!’ or it was because of us and that we can do it again.

There is a direct warning from God concerning the inevitability of pride misleading us and he wrote this specific warning in Chapter 8 of the book of Deuteronomy:

8:2 ‘Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness all these 40 years, to humble and test you in order to know what is in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.’

8:3 ‘He humbled you… to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.’

8:10 ‘When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. 11. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you today.’

8:12 ‘Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, then your heart will become proud, and you will forget the Lord your God…

8:17 ‘You may say to yourself, ‘My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.’ But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you ability to produce wealth and so confirms his covenant which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.’

8:19 ‘If you ever forget the Lord your God and follow other gods (idols) and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will surely be destroyed. 20. Like the nations the Lord destroyed before you, so you will be destroyed for not obeying the Lord your God.’

As it turned out, that level of power and amount of pride became the undoing of King David who covets, consumes his lust with Bathsheba, arranges the death of her husband, simply because he could.

God confronts King David through the prophet Nathan and tells him in 2 Samuel 12:7-9: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms.

‘I gave you Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you more. Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes?’

12:11 ‘This is what the Lord says: Out of your own household (family) I am going to bring calamity on you. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight.

You did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel.’

King David lost one child, one of his sons drove him out of his own kingdom and did exactly what the Lord said would happen. May this be a lesson to all of us.

According to Chinese philosopher Confucius, ‘Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.’

This may sound trite, but it is the bedrock of success that the SM Group has carefully nurtured and continues to nurture for the future as it continues to grow its ever expanding retail, banking, property and diverse portfolio of equity investments.

With its continuing objective of expansion, however, the question remains: how will it sustain growth and continue tapping capital markets-both locally and globally?

In the past couple of decades, access to capital has been easily available, especially for top-rated global companies. Thus, access to capital was strong, interest rates were low and investors were generally willing to ride out short-term volatility.

In an interview with SM Investments Corp. executive vice president for Treasury, Finance and Planning Erwin Pato, ‘Ten years ago, we came from a really high liquidity environment, right? Because that is just what the world economy was. And then I suppose from there, there were a lot of behaviors in terms of being able to access capital easily because a lot of money was released into the system. And this is just as early as five years ago. Five years ago, we had the lowest interest rate regime, like 2020, 2021. That was the lowest interest rate regime. It was easy to borrow, right? Even right before the pandemic, because after, if you recall, most of the central banks were releasing money.’

Pato recalls that at the time ‘there was also concern from a lot of economists and economic planners that it was really a long period that easy money or liquidity could easily be accessed. So the joke, even before, was that some asset managers have not experienced high interest rates because there is just like long 10, 15 years of low, low interest rate policy. Then, in that sense, obviously, today, it’s not that type of market because from the Trump, well, geopolitical race, there’s a lot of volatility that happens affecting the markets. And if you’re gonna observe lately, those combination of geopolitical race and other external shocks are happening in very close proximity in terms of time, right? … And now you have the Gulf War. So if you’re going to think about it within six years, we have had three external shocks. And that’s your question. How do you access financing or how do you become more sustainable with that backdrop? Then my answer to that is really what SM has done is that, even during peacetime, we were preparing for volatility.’

Today, capital and equity markets are dealing with a more complicated mix of geopolitical risks, persistent inflation and interest rates are likely to stay higher for longer. The ongoing tensions in the Middle East is proof that volatility will now be part of the financial landscape.

For emerging markets like the Philippines, this translates to tighter financial conditions, pressure on currencies and a more cautious investor base. In this kind of environment, the challenge for companies is not just about growing, but also about staying resilient.

However, Pato points out that ‘there is a difference between being able to access capital that is efficient versus just what is available. Quality access, not just cost, is what differentiates issuers in this environment.’

He acknowledges that it may seem like a subtle shift, but it matters. In more stable periods, companies focus on getting the best pricing. When markets are uncertain, the priority shifts to making sure funding is available and that it fits what the business needs.It requires preparation well before any stress shows up.

Thus, for a diversified group like SMIC, its core strength comes from how the business is structured – with operations across retail, property and banking, the group benefits from multiple sources of recurring cash flow to help cushion the impact when external conditions tighten.

‘While global tensions have increased volatility, our fundamentals remain unchanged. Our diversified portfolio and strong recurring cash flows allow us to navigate uncertainty from a position of stability,’ Pato said.

The SM Group’s stability isn’t just about size. It comes down to discipline. Companies that keep liquidity strong, manage leverage carefully and execute consistently are in a better position to maintain investor confidence, especially as investors become more selective. That selectivity is becoming more evident, with expectations that interest rate cuts will be slower and borrowing costs likely to stay elevated.

Investors are paying closer attention – not just to returns, but also to credit quality, transparency and track record. As a result of its preparations, SM companies continue to hold top-tier credit ratings, supported by strong profitability and careful balance sheet management. The group has stayed consistent in how it allocates capital, focusing on long-term sustainability rather than short-term expansion.

‘We have operated through multiple cycles before. What matters is consistency in execution and strong liquidity,’ Pato said.

A 2024 report cited by Global Finance found that many corporate treasurers are still cautious, reflecting ongoing concerns about business disruption and financing conditions. One clear lesson from the pandemic is how quickly access to funding can tighten – and how difficult it can be for those caught unprepared. A more effective approach is to build flexibility early.

‘We built capital access even before we needed it so our businesses can keep investing, regardless of market conditions,’ Pato said, adding that, ‘Keeping our balance sheet strong preserves flexibility. Liquidity enables continuity during uncertainty.’

With the preparations SMIC made early on, it now a real advantage. As volatility becomes more constant, companies that stand out will not necessarily be the ones growing the fastest, they will be the ones that can keep moving forward steadily, no matter the conditions, because resilience has been established long before crisis happens.

Three remnants of the now-defunct Dawlah Islamiya were killed in an encounter with patrolling soldiers in a secluded area in Barangay Tuayan Mother, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday, April 26.

Local executives and traditional Moro community leaders supporting joint anti-terror operations by the police and military in Maguindanao del Sur said on Monday that the slain Dawlah Islamiya members-Rasul Moksim, Salik Bona, and Mohammad Sendig-were experts in fabricating improvised explosive devices that can be detonated remotely using mobile phones.

Lt. Col. Roland Suscano, spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said villagers had informed military units securing Datu Hoffer and nearby towns that the three militants killed in the encounter in a secluded area in Barangay Tuayan Mother were among the gunmen who killed five policemen and wounded three others in an ambush on March 28 in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur.

Sporadic exchanges of gunfire between fleeing Dawlah Islamiya members and pursuing troops from units of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division continued until noon on Monday.

Local executives said the encounter on Sunday in Barangay Tuayan Mother erupted when the militants opened fire on soldiers sent to verify complaints from villagers about their presence in the area, where they were allegedly demanding money and rice at gunpoint.

The companions of the three slain Dawlah Islamiya members fled when they sensed that soldiers were about to encircle their location.

Villagers said they saw the fleeing militants carrying three wounded companions, identified as Salik, Mansur and Aliman.

Government maritime forces and industry stakeholders converged at the Cebu Maritime Expo and Conference (CME) 2026 from April 22 to 24 to foster collaboration, innovation, and job generation amid mounting challenges in the sector, particularly rising fuel costs.

Held at the IEC Convention Center Cebu and organized by the One Maritime Group, the three-day event gathered key players in shipping, shipbuilding, logistics, education, and government agencies to advance initiatives for a more resilient maritime industry.

Discussions during the expo emphasized the strategic importance of shipbuilding, maritime innovation, and workforce development. Updates on national initiatives and the continued relevance of the arbitral ruling on the West Philippine Sea were also addressed.

Industry leaders noted that the event comes at a critical time, as surging fuel prices continue to strain operations, forcing some operators to cancel trips and reduce services. Authorities confirmed that at least 11 trips have been affected, prompting measures such as trip consolidation and potential fare adjustments to sustain operations.

Despite these challenges, stakeholders highlighted opportunities to accelerate modernization and reduce long-term fuel dependence through innovation and stronger industry coordination. A maritime job fair and the 1st Shipbuilding and Ship Repair (SBSR) National Convention were also held to address workforce demands and promote advancements.

Participating organizations, including the Philippine Register of Shipping, Shipyards Association of the Philippines, Ship Managers Association of the Philippines, and Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, underscored the need for higher standards, safety, and continuous professional development across the sector.

Stakeholders said these initiatives align with the government’s Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028, which prioritizes fleet modernization and enhanced shipbuilding capabilities.

Participants were also given a closer look at maritime capabilities through shipboard tours at Naval Base Rafael Ramos in Lapu-Lapu City. During the visit, delegates witnessed the operational readiness of both Navy and Philippine Coast Guard vessels.

The Philippine Navy, through Naval Forces Central (NFC), played a significant role in the expo, underscoring its commitment to fostering stronger ties among stakeholders and supporting national maritime development.

In a message delivered on behalf of Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, officials highlighted the expo as a vital platform where ‘defense and development converge,’ enabling collaboration and accelerating growth in the country’s maritime sector.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard District Central Visayas (CGDCV), led by Agapito Bibat, actively participated throughout the event, mounting exhibits, supporting logistics and security operations, and joining key discussions on maritime safety and national development. The district was later awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for its contributions to the expo’s success.

A highlight of the closing program was the graduation of participants from the Ship Superintendency Course. At least 10 NFC personnel completed the training, with two officers placing among the top performers. The ceremony also included the oathtaking of new members of the Marine and Technical Superintendent Association of the Philippines.

As the expo concluded, both government agencies and private sector leaders expressed cautious optimism. They emphasized that sustained collaboration, innovation, and policy support are instrumental in ensuring a stable, secure, and future-ready maritime industry in the Philippines.

The Office of the Ombudsman has vowed to pursue maximum legal penalties against those responsible for the malicious online disclosure of its investigators’ identities, calling it a ‘blatant attempt to intimidate public servants and jeopardize their personal safety.’

The ombudsman is coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation and Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group to identify the perpetrators and file charges under the Data Privacy Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

‘The Office of the Ombudsman strongly condemns the online disclosure of our investigators’ identities,’ it said.

The ombudsman explained that recent filings involving high-ranking officials are part of a deliberate tactical sequence, saying the specific complaint ‘reached the courts first due to its position in our investigative pipeline, but it is merely a preliminary component of a broader, multi-stage legal strategy.’

‘These initial measures are designed to secure the state’s interests and prevent the flight of people or assets while the universe of cases continue to mature,’ the ombudsman said.

The Office of the Ombudsman said it is not their duty to ‘lawyer’ for the respondents, but to focus on securing the jurisdiction of the state.

‘If the respondents want to challenge the credibility of witnesses or the veracity of the affidavits, the proper venue to do so is during the preliminary investigation,’ the Office of the Ombudsman said. ‘It is the respondent’s responsibility to raise his own defenses; this office will not preempt that legal process by litigating the case in the court of public opinion.’

Malacañang on Monday, April 27, defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s earlier announcement that Zaldy Co had been caught in the Czech Republic, saying he never called it an actual arrest.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro told reporters at a briefing that Marcos used the Filipino word “nahuli,” meaning “caught” or “stopped,” when he posted on Facebook on April 16 that Co had been taken into Czech custody. She said this was not the same as the legal term of being “arrested.”

“Huwag ipahid sa Pangulo ang salitang aresto dahil hindi po niya ‘yan ginamit (Don’t say the president used the word arrested when he did not),” Castro said.

The defense came after days of confusion over Co’s actual status and whether he’d be deported to the Philippines at all.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida, who flew to Prague last week to speak to authorities about retrieving Co, told reporters on Friday there was “no guarantee” the fugitive was still in the Czech Republic.

Asked directly if Co may have left, Vida was quoted in reports as saying: “Possible.”

Castro on Monday did not provide any new information about Co’s location. Asked about his status, she said only Vida could answer this question.

Who exactly gave Marcos the intelligence behind the April 16 post, Castro declined to say. Asked whether anyone would be held accountable if Co had slipped away, she said she could not respond because Vida was still gathering facts.

‘Not premature’

What Castro did address, at length, was why the president should not be blamed for prematurely announcing Co’s arrest.

Marcos posted on April 16 that Co had been caught in Prague without proper documents and was in Czech custody.

A day later, he said Co had been apprehended at the German border and handed back to Czech authorities. Castro said both posts were accurate. “Anong premature doon? Walang premature doon (What’s premature there? It’s not premature),” Castro said.

She acknowledged that the Presidential Communications Office used the word “arrest” in a press release the same day but said this was a translation of “nahuli” and not language from the president.

The DOJ clarified last week that the term “arrest” did not apply because Co has no outstanding warrant in the Czech Republic.

Asked why the correction took days, Castro said there was nothing for Marcos to correct. The PCO changed its wording only after DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez flagged the issue in an interview, she said.

Castro said the government was right to inform the public as events happened.

She told reporters the Czech Republic does not use the term “arrest” for what happened to Co, and that the Philippines had to respect another country’s legal terminology and processes.

Efforts to bring Co back

Vida said Sunday he is set to meet Czech officials today to verify Co’s status and discuss legal options. He vowed the trip would not end empty-handed.

The DOJ has said deportation is the fastest route to bring Co home, but Vida said he expected to confirm Co’s exact location only after the meeting.

Philippine officials also reportedly plan to invoke the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, to which both countries are signatories, as a legal basis for Co’s return. An Interpol red notice has been requested but not yet issued.

Co, who chaired the House appropriations committee during Marcos’ first term, was charged by the Ombudsman in November 2025 with graft and non-bailable malversation over a multi-million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro. He faces three Sandiganbayan arrest warrants.

He has been a fugitive since July 2025, when he left the Philippines and declared his reason as medical treatment in the United States.

Two Moro men actively supporting police law-enforcement activities were killed in an ambush in Barangay Bagoinged, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte on Sunday, April 26.

The victims, Najir Esmael and Tho Abad, died instantly from bullet wounds sustained in the attack.

Local executives and Capt. Steffie Salanguit, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, separately told reporters on Monday that Esmael and Abad were riding a green pick-up-type multicab on their way when they were attacked by gunmen in Barangay Bagoinged.

Their attackers managed to escape before responding policemen and barangay officials could reach the scene.

Salanguit said investigators from the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station and barangay officials are coordinating to identify the gunmen behind the fatal ambush of Esmael and Abad, both residents of Barangay Tinonggos in Datu Odin Sinsuat.

The slain Esmael and Abad were both known for their active involvement in joint peacekeeping missions of barangay officials in Tinonggos and personnel of the municipal police.

The EDSA-Ortigas Interchange southbound flyover in Mandaluyong will reopen today after it was closed for emergency repairs and structural assessment after a bus caught fire on April 24.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) conducted clearing operations and load testing yesterday to ensure public safety.

The DPWH said the EDSA-Ortigas Interchange would be reopened for light vehicles only as it continues to conduct assessment and repair works.

The DPWH shutdown the EDSA-Ortigas Interchange over the weekend to ensure the safety of motorists during the reinstallation of damaged road safety devices.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority will be implementing traffic measures to ensure continuous traffic flow while repairs and assessment activities are ongoing.