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Rookie pro Jeffren Lumbo stole the spotlight with a brilliant five-under 67 to seize the first-round lead in the ICTSI South Pacific Golf Classic at the South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estate in Davao yesterday.

The 29-year-old from Sarangani left his more accomplished rivals scrambling to keep pace.

With veterans Jhonnel Ababa and Reymon Jaraula matching steady 70s and returning Keanu Jahns opening with a 71 to join a big group of pursuers, Lumbo carved a three-stroke cushion heading into the second round of the P3.5 million Philippine Golf Tour event.

Just a shot behind Jahns’ pack were Guido van der Valk and three others at 72.

Meanwhile, Chanelle Avaricio took control of the ladies’ side with a four-under 68 for a one-stroke edge over Sarah Ababa and Princess Superal, who matched 69s in the P1 million championship.

Two late bogeys spoiled what could’ve been an explosive start to another title drive for the Apo Golf Classic champion, but a dazzling six-birdie spree in the first 10 holes was enough to keep her firmly in the driver’s seat.

The Citi Foundation (the ‘Foundation’) has announced the 50 community organizations around the world that will each receive 500,000 USD in grant support as part of its 2025 Global Innovation Challenge.

With this support, the selected organizations will help advance innovative employment solutions for low-income youth, building on Citi and the Citi Foundation’s longstanding commitment to young people and their economic futures.

In the Philippines, World Vision Development Foundation, Inc. has been selected as a grantee. They will be working locally to introduce out-of-school and low-income youth to the green job economy, providing essential employment and entrepreneurial skills through a comprehensive career readiness and enterprise startup program.

This initiative aims to equip young Filipinos with the skills needed for future-proof careers in a rapidly evolving job market.

Youth unemployment is an ongoing and pervasive issue. Despite recent progress, the International Labour Organization estimates that 65 million young people globally are unemployed – which places a substantial burden on public resources, increases poverty and stifles growth, presenting a critical challenge to global economic progress.

In the Philippines, the Philippine Statistics Authority has said that youth unemployment contributed 43% to the total jobless individuals annually.

‘As young people today continue to navigate significant barriers to employment, empowering this next generation with relevant skills and meaningful opportunities is critical,’ said Edward Skyler, head of enterprise services and public affairs at Citi. ‘Citi and the Citi Foundation have an established track record of investing in our youth to help them access job opportunities and unlock economic growth more broadly. I look forward to seeing the work of our grantees in action as we work together to help close the job-skills mismatch.’

‘We are immensely proud that World Vision Development Foundation, Inc., a Philippine organization, is among the global recipients of the Citi Foundation’s 2025 Global Innovation Challenge grant,’ said Citi Philippines CEO and Banking Head Paul Favila. ‘We extend our warmest congratulations to the team and look forward to the culmination of their work, which exemplifies our shared commitment to fostering economic opportunities and driving sustainable growth for the next generation in the Philippines.’

‘The ECO-YOUTH program is more than just training; it’s a launchpad for the next generation of Filipino innovators and protectors of the environment,’ said Herbert Carpio, national director of World Vision Development, Inc. ‘With support from Citi Foundation, we’ll empower vulnerable youth to lead the charge in the Philippines’ transition to being a green economy. By equipping them with skills for green jobs, we are ensuring they have a secure future while helping build a more resilient and sustainable nation. This initiative plants seeds of both hope and real, impactful change. Thank you Citi Foundation for the Global Innovation Challenge grant awarded to World Vision Development Foundation.’

Young people face many obstacles in their pursuit of employment, but skills mismatch continues to be a particular area of concern. The World Economic Forum reports that 63% of employers identify this as a major barrier to securing a job, and 39% of current skill sets are expected to be outdated within the next five years.

In addition, post-pandemic recovery for youth has been uneven – especially in emerging markets – and the acceleration of digital transformation is rapidly reshaping job opportunities. Projections indicate that 60% of employers anticipate broadening digital access, transforming their businesses by 2030, creating high demand for new skills in areas such as AI.

The 25 million USD in grant support from the Citi Foundation will enable these community organizations, which were selected through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, to pilot and scale employment solutions for low-income youth.

The grants will support a variety of programs, such as upskilling for digital literacy (including AI), technical and vocational training, work-based learning, career guidance and resources for entrepreneurs and mentorship. These impactful solutions are designed to help young people adapt to rapidly changing economies and a job market that looks different than it has for generations before.

Programs funded by these grants will be implemented over two years and recipients will have access to a learning community of fellow grantees that facilitates opportunities to build deeper connections, share lessons learned and exchange best practices.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a show-cause order to the driver of a Toyota Innova Zenix and its motorcycle escort after a viral video showed the vehicles using unauthorized blinkers and sirens while passing through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway.

The driver and motorcycle rider were directed to attend a hearing at the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division on Nov. 3 and to submit a sworn explanation on why they should not be charged with unlawful use of blinkers under Presidential Decree No. 96.

Pending investigation, the LTO imposed a 90-day suspension on the driver’s licenses of both the car owner and the motorcycle rider. They were ordered to surrender their licenses to the LTO.

‘Using blinkers and escorts is not a privilege. The law sets clear limitations. Anyone who violates these rules will be held accountable,’ LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said.

At the recent launch of the La Prairie Pure Gold Radiance Collection, guests were welcomed into an afternoon of refined elegance and sensory indulgence to capture the essence of radiance, renewal and transformation – values at the heart of La Prairie’s luxurious skincare philosophy.

The venue glowed with soft golden light, setting the stage for an experience that was as immersive as it was inspiring. Attendees took part in a kintsugi-inspired activity, a Japanese art form that celebrates beauty in imperfection. Each guest painted and repaired delicate vases, later adorning them with fresh floral blooms – a graceful metaphor for restoration, resilience, and inner glow.

As guests explored the Pure Gold Radiance range, they discovered how La Prairie’s innovative formulations harness the revitalizing power of gold to illuminate the skin and restore its youthful vitality. The products, displayed like precious works of art, embodied the brand’s signature blend of science, craftsmanship and timeless luxury.

Every detail of the evening – from the golden-hued décor to the serene ambiance – reflected La Prairie’s dedication to elevating skincare into an art form. The launch was not merely an introduction to a collection, but a celebration of beauty’s enduring brilliance, leaving each guest feeling both renewed and radiant.

The true-crime digital series “Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories” returned for a second season yesterday, October 28, on ABS-CBN News Channel’s YouTube and iWant with a gripping premiere episode on the 14-year manhunt for cult leader Ruben Ecleo – one of the country’s most haunting cases of crime, faith, and justice.

After earning almost six million views and strong engagement online in its first season, the series once again dives into the country’s most haunting real-life crimes that stunned the public, tragedies that changed lives, and mysteries that continue to raise questions decades later.

Among the stories revisited this season are tales of power, faith, fame, and justice, including the shocking abduction and killing of Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo, the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre, the 1967 Maggie dela Riva rape case, and many more.

Leading this season are journalists Lyza Aquino, MJ Felipe, Jeff Caparas, Jessie Cruzat, and Jeff Canoy, who bring their experience, insight, and empathy to stories that have long shocked the Filipino public.

‘I feel so happy and honored to be part of this new season,’ shared Lyza. ‘When I first heard ABS-CBN News was planning a project like this, I prayed really hard to be part of it. I’m a fan of true-crime podcasts, so this project is truly a dream come true.’

Unlike traditional news reports that focus on immediate facts, ‘Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories’ allows for a more immersive approach. ‘We don’t just tell people what happened; we explore the how and why, and even the emotional aftermath,’ she explained. ‘It’s a more reflective kind of storytelling that allows for emotion and deeper understanding.”

According to the show’s supervising producer, Jeff Canoy, the second season continues ABS-CBN News’ evolution in digital journalism. ‘Our reporters piece together stories that audiences may have followed before, but now we can add context, insights, and new perspectives that only come with time,’ said Jeff.

‘Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories’ bridges generations of viewers from those who lived through these events, to younger audiences discovering them for the first time. Each episode offers not just a retelling, but a reckoning with truth, accountability, and the human stories behind the nation’s darkest headlines.

‘Philippines’ Most Shocking Stories Season 2′ airs on the ABS-CBN News Channel YouTube and iWant.

Bloomberry [BLOOM] [link] has announced its exit from the casino business in South Korea, marking the end of a decade-long effort to sell its underperforming venture. In a disclosure on Oct. 24, 2025, BLOOM said its South Korean indirect subsidiary, Golden and Luxury Co. Ltd. (G and L), will spin off and subsequently sell its casino business on Jeju Island to Gangwon Blue Mountain Co. Ltd., which has made a down payment of ?500 million. Since 2015, G and L has operated the Jeju Sun Hotel and Casino, which has been on the market for several years as its operations continue to struggle to recover from the pandemic-induced downturn. Jeju Sun’s gross gaming revenue dropped 93% in the second quarter to P2.5 million.

MB bottom-line: This sale has been a looooong time coming. For those who have been reading BLOOM’s quarterly and annual reports for a while, as I have, BLOOM’s Korean assets almost pop off the page through all the notes and analysis for their sheer waste. I’m not sure what took BLOOM so long to make this sale since the Korean assets have been sad and lame for years, and BLOOM’s owner, Enrique Razon, is known to be a quick and decisive operator. It’s crazy, because the first time it occurred to me that BLOOM should sell, it was when physical casinos were hot and I wanted them to deploy all the capital into that business. The next time I thought that, it was when BLOOM was breaking into the digital gaming space when e-gaming was hot and I wanted them to deploy all the capital into that business. That’s why Ricky’s the best: he knows when to hold em. Or at least he knows how to look like he knows.

Kapuso actress Gabbi Garcia shared some behind-the-scene photos of her “Prisoner of War” shoot with English actor Scott Adkins.

On her Instagram account, Gabbi called it an honor and “a true thrill” to work on the film with Scott, a celebrated action star.

“Prisoner of War” stars Scott, who also co-wrote the story, as a British pilot captured by the Japanese during World War II and is sent to an internment camp in the Philippines.

Before setting out on the now-historic Death March, Scott’s James Wright and other prisoners engage in death matches, leading to a plan for escape.

Gabbi portrays a nurse named Theresa alongside taekwondo star Pauline Lopez. Also in the film is Filipino-American director-actor Michael Copon as Gabriel Villanueva.

Michael commented on Gabbi’s post praising her participation in the film and hoped to cast her in another project having directed Danny Trejo, Bea Alonzo, Hector David Jr., Maricel Laxa, and Costas Mandylor (brother of “Prisoner of War” director Louis Mandylor) in “1521.”

The filmmaker also teased he was producing another movie this December in Silang, Cavite and and would be working on three more films next year.

Others who left congratulatory messages were Iza Calzado, Janine Gutierrez, Karen Davila, Max Collins, Ina Feleo, and Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, who joked that Scott looked like entrepreneur-content creator Nico Bolzico.

“Prisoner of War” at the Beverly Hills Film Festival last April and had a limited wide release in the United States last month.

Some of Scott’s best known action roles are “John Wick: Chapter 4,” “The Expendables 2,” “Ip Man 4: The Finale,” “Zero Dark Thirty,” and the “Undisputed” films.

Flights to the island province of Siquijor will be available for the first time through Clark-based local boutique airline Sunlight Air.

The airline will launch flights from Cebu to Siquijor beginning December 15, operating four times weekly, giving tourists another option other than ferries to reach the island.

The move is part of its efforts to make regional travel more accessible and support emerging tourist destinations.

The news comes on the heel of Sunlight Air acquiring its first ATR 72-600 turboprop plane, the fourth aircraft in its fleet after three ATR 72-500s, which will be upgraded sometime next year.

The freshly-acquired aircraft has advanced noise insulation and emits less carbon emissions per passenger because 45% less fuel is burned.

The ATR 72-600 seats up to 68 passengers, four fewer seats than usual to provide more legroom. The plane will be used on flights from Clark and Cebu to Siargao and Busuanga, and vice-versa.

On the horizon for the airline is purchasing jet aircraft in order to mount international flights as early as 2027.

With love and gratitude from the Cebu basketball community, tributes overflow for legendary coach Agripino ‘Jun’ Noel who passed away at the age of 81 recently.

‘Rest in peace tito Junior, my coaching teacher. We worked for a long time, thank you for making me coach for 32 years,’ said veteran coach Bong Pineda, whose career was shaped by his uncle Jun.

‘Rest easy, coach tatay Jun Noel. Thank you sa pagsalig, pag-guide ug pag-mold nako as a player tay. Di nako maabot ang akong naabot ron sa basketball kung dili tungod nimo tay. I love you coach tatay!’ said Nichole John Ubalde, one of the players under the tutelage of Noel during his stint with the University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Jaguars in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) a decade ago.

Before taking the reins as USJ-R coach in 2013, Noel has already made a mark as a topnotch bench strategist with multiple championship titles under his belt.

He called the shots for Jojo Lastimosa, his brother Danny Lastimosa, Elmer ‘Boy’ Cabahug, Larry Villanil, Zaldy Realubit, Jerry Aratan, Titing Manalili, Ricric Marata, Paul Maninang, Yves Dignadice, Calvin Tuadles, and Paul Abais with Mama’s Love in the Philippine Amateur Basketball League (PABL) way back in 1985.

‘He was my first commercial coach in Cebu together with my brother (Danny). He was already a well-known coach in Cebu back then. He was very mild-mannered, never seemed to get upset in any situation and always ‘malambing’ with his tone,’ said Lastimosa in paying tribute to his mentor.

Ralph Baladjay Jr. shared:’Thank you coach for being a part in my life’s journey. From Mama’s Love, SWU Cobras, West Negros Mustangs. It was the training and discipline that has molded me and helped me in my career. Praying for the comfort and strength of his family.’

Noel guided Hapee Toothpaste in the PBL in 2007 and then the Misamis Oriental Meteors in Liga Pilipinas two years later.

‘Coach Jun was known for his discipline and dedication. He was always on time for practice, strict but fair, well-prepared for every game, and calm under pressure,’ said coach Bong Abad, Noel’s most trusted lieutenant with the Meteors from 2009 to 2013.

‘When I was given the opportunity to become his assistant coach, I grabbed it right away because I knew I would learn a lot from his coaching style and system. Every practice, game, and conversation was a chance to grow not just as a coach, but as a person.’

‘Thank you for everything, Coach Jun. You were like a second father to me. A true mentor who guided me with wisdom, patience, and passion. You taught me the value of discipline, teamwork, and humility both on and off the court. May your soul rest in peace,’ Abad added.

Of his shining accomplishments, Noel is best remembered for steering the Negros Slashers to epic championship triumphs over the Cebu Gems during their scathing rivarly at the height of Metropolitan Basketball Association (MBA) fame nearly three decades ago.

‘A great coach never truly leaves the court, his lessons echo in every play, every huddle, and every heart he touched.Thank you for everything, Coach Jun Noel. Your guidance and passion will never be forgotten. May you rest in peace,’ said former USJ-R Jaguar Victor Nuñez in a heartfelt Facebook post.

Asiabest [ABG] [link] disclosed that the initial valuation of the assets it plans to fold into the company is expected to be confirmed ‘around the end of October,’ with management committing to establish the foundation and final details of the transaction to ‘ensure that all key details are aligned before moving forward.’ In a response to the Exchange’s query on 28 October 2025, ABG said the final valuation details will be presented to the Board of Directors for formal approval in the ‘first week of November.’ The company added that the necessary documentation will subsequently be prepared for presentation to shareholders. The PSE already approved a 10-day voluntary trading suspension of ABG starting on 14 October 2025 following shareholder calls for greater transparency on the planned vend-in of Concrete Stone Corp., Industry Movers Corp., and Kabalayan (through PremiumLands Corp.). ABG said the trading pause aims to ‘ensure full transparency and proper price discovery.’

MB bottom-line: As noted by Bilyonaryo (link), ABG’s new owner (Francis Lloyd Chua) has already exceeded the timeline he gave investors for the valuation the assets that could be backdoored into ABG. While the delay isn’t necessarily a big deal (what’s another two to four weeks in the grand scheme of things?), I’m starting to get vibes from Mr. Chua’s conduct that (at least for me) will cause me to stay far away from ABG (or whatever it will become) until it can prove itself to be stable, transparent, and reliable. I’m not even thinking about Mr. Chua’s involvement in the Dolomite Beach scandal; besides, how can I be mad at a guy who did so much for my mental health during the lockdown? (/s)