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Another large stash of shabu with an estimated street value of P6.08 billion was seized in an anti-narcotics operation in this town on Friday night.

The raid on a property in Barangay Laois was a follow-up to a sting conducted on Thursday afternoon along Olongapo-Bugallon Road in the nearby town of Bugallon, where shabu with an estimated street value of P850 million was seized, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

PDEA chief Isagani Nerez said up to 895 kilos of shabu stashed in tea bags with Chinese markings and placed in 40 large sacks were found in a warehouse in Labrador.

Nerez said several sacks of shabu were also found in a Toyota Grandia van and Toyota Innova parked in the area, indicating the illegal substance was about to be transported to other areas when the raiding team arrived.

The anti-narcotics operation in Bugallon also resulted in the arrest of a Chinese national identified only as ‘Monkey,’ 40, and his Filipino accomplice.

Nerez said the suspects provided information that led PDEA agents to a property in Labrador where the sacks of shabu were found.

The PDEA expressed belief that an international drug syndicate was behind the entry of shabu in Bugallon and Labrador.

Nerez has formed a joint team composed of PDEA agents and police officers to trace the origin of the illegal substance and determine its potential link to international drug syndicates.

He said the registered owners of the vehicles and the property where the sacks of shabu were discovered would be investigated.

The P6.08-billion shabu was one of the largest illegal drug hauls by the PDEA in Northern Luzon in recent years, Nerez said.

He attributed the success of the operation to the close coordination among the PDEA, Philippine National Police-Drug Enforcement Group, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Bureau of Investigation and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Jaguars outsmarted the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Wildcats, 76-63, to barge into the win column of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) Season 25 basketball tournament on Friday, October 3, at the Cebu Coliseum.

Fritz Gonzales posted 16 points and two rebounds while Christian Carl Sollano tossed in 14 points on a spectacular 7-of-8 shooting from the field with 10 rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block to help the Jaguars recover from back-to-back defeats.

The Jaguars trailed by six, 24-30, late in the second period, but unleashed a fierce offensive in the second half to send the Wildcats reeling towards their third loss in four games.

Still down 30-32 at the break, the Jaguars suddenly waxed hot and pounded the unsuspecting Wildcats, 36-16, bridging the third and fourth quarters to surge ahead by as much as 18 points, 66-48, in the final five-minute mark.

Serafin Duarte was the lone double-digit scorer for the Wildcats with 12 points on top of five boards, four assists, two steals, and two blocks.

In the high school level, the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM) Baby Webmasters used a sizzling 30-7 start to dominate the San Carlos School of Cebu (SCSC) Baby Warriors, 81-70.

Dan Mitchell Ferraren spearheaded UCLM’s balanced attack with 17 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

Noe Lingoste tallied 16 markers, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals, Rafael Calo added 15 points, six rebounds, one assist, and three steals while Wade Adam Luche contributed 13 points, six rebounds, one assist, and three steals as UCLM improved to 2-1.

Neil Ashley Ibarita paced the Baby Warriors with 17 points, five rebounds, two assists, and five steals. Joshua Pilapil registered a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds with two assists and three steals while Heath Lauren Macapil and John Khino Buslon combined for 25 points and 15 rebounds but their efforts proved futile as the young Carolinians remained winless in four st

At least 33 individuals were arrested and P1.83 million worth of suspected shabu was confiscated during a series of anti-illegal drug operations conducted across Central Visayas from October 3 to 4, according to the Police Regional Office-7.

In a 24-hour span, law enforcement operatives intercepted a total of 269.25 grams of suspected shabu.

The largest haul was recorded in Barangay Catarman, Liloan, Cebu, where authorities seized approximately 150 grams of shabu valued at P1.02 million.

The illegal drugs were recovered from a high-value target apprehended through a joint operation by the Liloan Municipal Police Station, the Provincial Intelligence Unit, and the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit.

PRO-7 reported that Cebu Province accounted for the bulk of the seizures, with P1,076,712 worth of narcotics. This was followed by Bohol Province with P376,040, Cebu City with P184,688, Mandaue City with P173,740, and Lapu-Lapu City with P19,720.

PRO-7 Regional Director Police Brigadier General RedricoMaranan commended the participating police units for their continued efforts in combating illegal drugs.

‘Every gram of shabu seized means a life rescued from the chains of addiction. Our men and women will not pause even in times of calamity because the people of Central Visayas deserve safe and drug-free communities,’ Maranan said.

Despite ongoing relief and clearing operations in areas affected by the recent 6.9 magnitude earthquake in Northern Cebu, PRO-7 assured the public that its anti-drug campaign remains active.

San Juan made history after emerging as grand winner in the highly urbanized city category for Best Tourism-Oriented local government unit (LGU) – the highest honor during the 26th Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines Pearl Awards on Oct. 2 here.

The annual ATOP Pearl Awards recognize outstanding practices, innovations and initiatives of local government units that significantly contribute to the promotion and development of Philippine tourism.

Mayor Francis Zamora, during his acceptance remarks, invited tourism officers to visit San Juan and experience its famed hospitality and historical trail as he congratulated all the winners.

‘I am proud to see our tourism officers working hand in hand to promote Philippine tourism and highlight the unique beauty and strength of each LGU,’ said Zamora who also serves as president of the Metro Manila Council.

Over a thousand tourism officers from towns and provinces as well as from component, independent and highly urbanized cities participated in the event that celebrates the best in Philippine tourism governance and innovation.

The Association of Tourism Officers-National Capital Region bagged the Best Tourism Organization (Regional Level), affirming the collective strength and leadership of Metro Manila’s tourism sector.

Also declared grand winners are Las Piñas for Best Tourism Promotion Video, Muntinlupa for Best Institutionalized Culture and Arts Program, and Pasig for Best Practices on Sustainable Tourism.

Quezon City bagged the Best Event Hosting: International Event and Best Tourism Event: Religious Festival awards.

After a one-year hiatus, the IRONMAN 70.3 Davao is set not just for a comeback, but for an explosive return to the global triathlon scene as it kickstarts the 2026 season on March 22 with its milestone fifth staging.

This edition promises to be its most spectacular yet, cementing its place as the yardstick for IRONMAN 70.3 races in the Philippines and Asia-Pacific.

‘IRONMAN 70.3 Davao has evolved into more than just a race. It is a celebration of athletic excellence, cultural pride and community spirit,’ said Princess Galura, president and general manager of the organizing Sunrise Events Inc. – the exclusive IRONMAN licensee in the country – during the official launch.

The landmark event will set a new benchmark in endurance sports with an expected huge international turnout, a refined and world-class course, and a festival atmosphere that only Davao can deliver.

‘The fifth edition will elevate the racing experience like never before – with faster courses, richer cultural immersion, and unmatched community support,’ she added.

The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Davao will also serve as a global proving ground with competitors from across continents expected to converge in the King City of the South, drawn by the race’s reputation for top-tier organization, technical excellence and a course that balances speed, scenery, and soul.

From the dramatic swim (1.9km) in Talomo Bay framed by the majestic Mt. Apo, to the lightning-fast bike leg (90km) along the Davao City Coastal Road, and a scenic run (21.1km) flanked by thousands of local supporters, every segment is curated to deliver a world-class race-day experience.

Beyond the competition, IRONMAN 70.3 Davao 2026 will again serve as a beacon of community resilience and cultural pride. With the theme centered around Tribu Maisugon – a tribute to the courageous spirit of Dabawenyos – the event will transform the city into a living festival, spotlighting local art, heritage, and traditions.

‘We are honored to host the fifth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 in Davao,’ said acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte. ‘It’s more than a race – it’s a citywide celebration. Our people’s hospitality, energy, and commitment to excellence ensure that every athlete feels like a champion the moment they arrive.’

Registration is now open. For details, visit www.ironman.com/im703-davao or email sai.mayol@sunriseevents.com.ph.

The fifth edition also marks the most inclusive and ambitious edition to date, with a series of new events designed to broaden participation and foster a deeper connection with the community.

The Gwapa Dabawenya Run returns bigger than ever with three new categories – 21km Pinakagwapa, 10km Mas Gwapa, and 5km Gwapa Dabawenya. Celebrting the strength, beauty and empowered spirit of Dabawenyas, this event has grown into a movement of pride and participation.

The Sprint Distance Triathlon will also make its debut, tailored for newcomers, beginners and returning triathletes seeking a shorter but equally thrilling taste of IRONMAN racing.

The IRONKIDS Aquathlon will likewise offer a fun, inclusive introduction for young athletes through a swim-run format – planting the seeds of future champions and reinforcing the race’s legacy in grassroots sports development.

A refreshed emblem will also be unveiled to symbolize Davao’s resilience, diversity and the unbreakable spirit of the triathlon community. It represents five years of unforgettable moments, unity and progress.

For those of us working in the foreign service, what is happening in our country today is so frustrating, to say the least. Here we are vigorously promoting the Philippines like hell, competing with our Asian neighbors for a ‘slice of the pie’ – only to be confronted with this horrific corruption scandal the country is facing.

Countries are considering suspending funding for a bridge project linked to the scandal, citing concerns over governance and transparency. Other bilateral donors and aid agencies are quietly reviewing their exposure. What begins with a single delayed project can quickly cascade: procurement pipelines slow down and lenders hesitate to approve new funding tranches.

The Philippines finds itself at a precarious crossroads, with a broadening corruption scandal surrounding flood control and infrastructure projects dominating headlines – triggering public outrage and drawing scrutiny from donors and investors alike. What initially appeared as a domestic political crisis has evolved into a reputational challenge with direct implications on foreign direct investments, international aid and the country’s broader economic trajectory.

For the business and finance community, this episode is not merely a governance story: it cuts right to the heart of how risks are priced, how projects are financed and whether the Philippines can sustain its narrative as one of Southeast Asia’s rising investment destinations.

International capital flows need to be protected. For multilateral development banks, bilateral donors and private financiers alike, the primary question is not simply ‘What is the return?’ but ‘Can I trust the money to be used as intended?’

Revelations of kickbacks, substandard works and inflated contracts in government-funded flood control projects directly undermine that trust. Once credibility is shaken, the cost is not only reputational. Donors may suspend disbursements, impose stricter conditionalities or redirect funding to countries with more predictable governance frameworks. Private investors may demand higher risk premiums or shift capital to competing destinations like Vietnam or Indonesia.

This reputational contagion extends beyond aid – several foreign firms operating in the Philippines already felt the effects of ongoing graft probes. Heightened uncertainty is forcing multinationals to reassess whether the Philippine market justifies added risks. For those weighing expansion, the scandal could tip the balance toward postponement or cancellation.

Investors in emerging markets are quick to react to risks. Political and governance scandals translate into higher spreads on sovereign debt, greater volatility in equity markets and a weaker peso as confidence ebbs. This is no small matter for the Philippines, which depends on both remittance inflows and foreign capital to balance its current account.

If international financial institutions perceive systemic weaknesses in procurement and anti-corruption enforcement, ratings agencies may flag governance as a structural risk, raising borrowing costs for both government and private issuers, squeezing fiscal space and corporate expansion plans alike.

In a region where capital moves quickly, perception matters as much as fundamentals. Investors ask not only whether the Philippines is growing – but whether it is being governed properly.

Another under-appreciated consequence is the alignment of this scandal with environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks. Much of the corruption has been uncovered in flood control and water management projects – sectors central to climate resilience.

Donors are increasingly deploying capital with ESG criteria. If the Philippines becomes perceived as a governance liability precisely in those sectors, it risks exclusion from the fastest-growing streams of concessional and green financing. For private investors, association with projects tainted by corruption also carries reputational risk that many boards will not tolerate.

At home, the scandal threatens to stall infrastructure rollout – a backbone of the government’s growth strategy. Delayed projects mean lost jobs, fewer contracts for suppliers and weaker overall economic gains.

Moreover, corruption diverts scarce fiscal resources. Every peso siphoned away through kickbacks is a peso deprived for education, health or legitimate infrastructure, eventually eroding productivity, widening inequality and suppressing domestic demand – all of which matter to investors assessing market fundamentals.

What needs to happen next is key because the damage is real, yet not irreparable. The Philippines can still turn this crisis into an opportunity for reform through 1) swift, credible and independent investigations. Business and financial partners are watching not only what the government says, but what it does. An independent anti-corruption body with prosecutorial power would reassure donors that accountability is not cosmetic; 2) full transparency. Procurement records, contract details and audit reports should be made public. Sunlight is the best disinfectant – and also the most persuasive argument to skeptical investors that the government has nothing to hide and 3) visible accountability. Symbolic prosecutions will not suffice. High-level convictions, restitution of stolen funds and protection of whistleblowers would send the clearest message that the Philippines is serious about changing course.

For President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., this a test of leadership, with the scandal presenting both peril and possibility. Peril, because mishandling could bolster perceptions that his administration is unwilling or unable to confront corruption. Possibility, because success in restoring trust could provide the lasting legacy his presidency seeks.

The unfolding corruption scandal has already eroded confidence and frozen some capital flows. Left unchecked, it could raise risk premiums, drive away investors and curtail access to international aid just when the Philippines needs it most.

Yet the same crisis can be a catalyst. If the government acts decisively, engages transparently and builds enduring institutions, the Philippines can emerge stronger – with renewed investor trust and reinforced governance.

For the business and finance community, the message must be clear that there is decisiveness in making necessary reforms – because this moment of crisis can actually open a window of opportunity.

Clearly, we must seize the moment before the moment seizes us.

Redness, itchiness and a burning sensation are classic signs of sensitive skin.

There are many factors that cause sensitive skin, and these could be irritants in products used, temperature change and even stress.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mabelle Colayco explained the two factors that people with sensitive skin must know.

Dr. Colayco explained that sensitive skin occurs when there is a break on the skin.

‘Your skin is not one whole sheet; it’s not a blanket. It’s made up of bricks, and in between the bricks, there are ‘cement’ and that ‘cement’ when you have sensitive skin, may break siya.

‘Parang sa kalye, ‘pag may break, pumupunta doon ‘yung environmental factors tapos nagkaka-inflammation sa ilalim. Pag nagka-inflammation sa ilalim, tuloy-tuloy na yung cascade ng sensitive skin,’ the dermatologist explained, likening sensitive skin to a damaged road with holes being invaded by impurities that cause the skin condition.

The remedy is to target two issues that contribute to the development of sensitive skin: repairing the barrier and addressing inflammation.

These can be addressed by a visit to the dermatologist for an apt treatment plan, which include products that feature ingredients that target these skin issues.

Dr. Colayco said to take note of products that have ceramide, lipids, and glycerin, and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, chamomile and calendula.

Ceramide and lipids are protective barriers, while glycerin is a humectant, a water-attracting ingredient that draws moisture from the air deeper into the skin. Calendula is an ingredients that helps hydrate and heal the skin, while chamomile soothes irritation, reduces redness and calms irritated skin.

Colloidal oatmeal, she said, is different from the remedy of cooking oatmeal at home. This is the reason why the dermatologist recommends FDA-approved products with these ingredients because these have undergone lab processing and testing proven to be safe and effective for use by a vast number of people.

Dr. Collayco was among the dermatologists present at the launch of the collaboration between beauty and wellness retalier and the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) last Wednesday.

The collaboration features free skin consultation at mall activation sites, including at the Mall of Asia Atrium only available until today, October 5.

Watsons also began offering free dermatology consultations every weekend from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in select stores in the metro. Visit SM MOA 7, Robinsons Place Manila, SM North Edsa Grand, SM Grand Central, SM Megamall, or SM City Tanza to get direct and accessible skin consultation with an expert.

President Marcos joked about lawmakers ‘getting fat’ as he greeted a chef-turned-congresswoman during an event in Pampanga on Friday.

‘Our latest, newly elected congresswoman, Congresswoman Florabel, is the one feeding the entire House of Representatives now, so our congressmen are getting fat,’ Marcos said, referring to Nanay Party-list Rep. Florabel Yatco.

Marcos made the joke at the inauguration of the Farm Fresh Milk plant in San Simon, Pampanga, amid a flood control corruption scandal implicating several lawmakers and other public officials.

Yatco is the owner of the Florabel Group of Restaurants, which includes Florabel, El Corazon, Crisostomo and Sisa’s Secret.

During the distribution of carabaos and farm equipment to Aeta communities, the President reminded the beneficiaries that the help they receive comes from taxpayers.

‘I tell those who receive little benefits who express their gratitude to us, ‘Don’t thank us because this is really our job. It’s your money, so we’re just giving it back to you’,’ he said.

Among those present at the inauguration were Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, Farm Fresh Milk founder and chief executive officer Loi Tuan Ee, Farm Fresh Milk Inc. Philippines CEO Shawn Pu and other officials.

On Aug. 8, 2025, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a policy alert, announcing it will no longer use the ‘Dates for Filing’ chart in calculating a child’s age under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA-age). Instead, it will return to its previous practice and use the ‘Dates for Filing’ chart for all Adjustment of Status applications filed on or after Aug. 15, 2025.

Applicants may still use the Dates for Filing chart when determining when an adjustment application can be filed with USCIS. This new policy only affects the CSPA age calculation.

By way of background, a child’s CSPA age is calculated by subtracting the number of days a petition was ‘pending’ from the applicant’s age on the date a visa becomes available. A visa is considered available on the latter of (1) petition approval or (2) the date a visa became available in the Visa Bulletin.

However, the monthly visa bulletin has two charts concerning visa availability: the dates for filing chart and the final action dates chart. Since 2023, USCIS has calculated a child’s age based on whether a visa was available (or the priority date was current) on the dates for filing chart, which was more advantageous to children, as a priority date became current much sooner than on the final action dates chart. Under this new policy change, the date a visa becomes available will be based on the Final Action Dates.

This could also create a problem or dilemma because a child in the US could file for adjustment of status based on the dates for filing chart, but that is no guarantee they would eventually be CSPA eligible, as they must then wait for the priority date to become current in the final action dates chart in order to determine if they can benefit from the CSPA. If they do, everything is fine. But if they filed for adjustment of status using the date for filing chart, and it is later determined that they aged out under the final action dates chart, their adjustment will be denied. With a denial, it’s possible that under the Trump administration, a notice to appear (NTA) could be issued.

In all honesty, this new policy (which is actually a return to the policy that had been in effect since 2002) will now treat children within the US (seeking the adjustment) and children outside the US (who are consular processing) the same way. This is because since 2023, USCIS had been using the date for filing chart, whereas the embassy had always relied on the final action dates chart. As a result, a child could be refused a visa if consular processing, but that very same child would be CSPA eligible if adjusting status. Therefore, a child’s CSPA eligibility depended on whether they were within or outside the US. In fact, I have had some consultations dealing with children who aged out in the US embassy in Manila. However, had they been in the US adjusting status (and using the date for filing chart), their green card would have been approved.

Also, be aware there is the additional CSPA requirement that the child must ‘seek to acquire’ a visa within one year of visa availability. This could be accomplished by submitting their adjustment of status or DS-260 within one year of visa availability. In other words, even with the child’s age calculated to be under 21 using the final action dates chart, the child has a one-year deadline to apply for their visa, or they lose CSPA benefits.

If you have any questions or issues about CSPA eligibility, you should consult with an attorney, who can evaluate your situation and assist in determining if your child qualifies.

This World Teachers’ Day brings to mind the wonderful teachers that I have met – individuals who have transformed lives through their dedication and service. As I deepen my engagement in the Philippines, I am reminded of the enduring Australia-Philippines partnership on education, and our joint commitment to supporting teachers as key contributors to sustainable development and the future of our nations.

For more than three decades, education has been a central pillar of Australia’s development assistance to the Philippines. Australia’s support for education has evolved over that time – from an initial focus on building physical classrooms and teacher training, to supporting curriculum design and national policies and reforms, including Kindergarten to Grade 12 reforms. Now, as Strategic Partners, our development assistance is focused on partnerships and an exchange of knowledge, as we address shared challenges. While the nature of our support has changed over the years, Australia has consistently been a champion for teachers.

In my recent conversation with Secretary of Education Sonny Angara, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Kiko Benitez and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Shirley Agrupis, I recognized a strong convergence of priorities. There is a unified vision to ensure education is adaptive and aligned with the evolving demands of the labor market.

Australia is closely collaborating with the Philippines on a new program to enhance senior high school education. Our new investment, Education Quality for Inclusive Prosperity (EQUIP), will support economic development by helping ensure school leavers have the skills they will need for the job market. EQUIP aims to contribute to professional development for teachers, guidance counselors and school leaders. It will also help students to develop technical skills through industry exposure, work immersion programs and by gaining nationally recognized qualifications.

This commitment to education extends across the archipelago, including Muslim Mindanao. Through the Education Pathways to Peace in Mindanao, Australia is supporting the Philippines’ long-standing peacebuilding efforts by improving the delivery of quality education. I hold in high regard the vital role teachers play in advancing peace through education and I am eager to listen to their stories when I visit the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The personal connections nurtured through our education partnership is a key part of the bilateral relationship between Australia and the Philippines. Today, over 25,000 Filipino students are studying in Australia, making the Philippines the sixth largest source of international students. Filipino students have greatly enriched Australia’s community.

Through the Australia Awards program alone, more than 4,500 Filipino scholars have graduated since 2004 – many are now leading in various fields, including education. These alumni are driving progress across the Philippines, forming one of the region’s most vibrant networks. As living bridges between Australia and the Philippines, they bring values of innovation and inclusion to their work, creating lasting impact. Their achievements reflect the dedication of teachers who first sparked curiosity and helped shape the leaders of this generation and the next. I hope to meet more of them throughout my time in the Philippines.

To ensure Filipino students have the best possible experience in Australia and receive a world class education, Australia is introducing reforms. These reforms respond to misuse of the student visa system and seek to strengthen regulations for education providers and students in an effort to ensure the integrity and sustainability of a system that has long welcomed global learners. Filipino students are a vital part of this story and continue to be warmly received. Australia upholds a strong commitment to provide secure and supportive learning environment. Through this sustained relationship, Australia stands alongside the Philippines in advancing human capital development.

Education remains a cornerstone of the Australia-Philippines partnership, reflecting collective goals for inclusive growth and regional resilience. As we mark the final day of Teachers’ Month in the Philippines, we honor the teachers whose unwavering service enriches societies and fosters cross-cultural understanding. We also celebrate how education continues to deepen the long-established relationship between Australia and the Philippines. From classrooms in Mindanao to lecture halls in Canberra, teachers contribute to peace, stability and prosperity. I look forward to expanding these partnerships during my time in the Philippines, learning from Filipino teachers and witnessing how our shared commitment to education drives cooperation across both nations and the region.