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The iconic souvenir shopping center here will be revived soon, three years after it was shelved to give way to a high-rise construction beside it.

The Alcantara-owned Alsons Development and Investment Corp. (Alsons Dev) announced this week it will begin the redevelopment of the Aldevinco Shopping Center site by the end of October.

‘Located at the corner of C.M. Recto and Roxas Avenue, the property has long been an iconic presence in downtown Davao. The redevelopment will usher in a new era for this historic landmark, paving the way for a modern, mixed-use destination that supports the city’s continued growth and revitalization while honoring its history and heritage,’ the company said.

The company was yet to issue the artist’s perspective of a revived shopping center but it said the aging buildings will be cleared ‘to make way for a redevelopment that continues to cultivate Davao’s growth.’

The Aldevinco used to be one-floor arcade located at the heart of downtown Davao where tenant stores display an array of indigenous items, from beads, trinklets and scarves to malong or wrap-around cloth, traditional clothes and household items. There were also imitation or replica of cultural artifacts, from hunting bows and arrows, agongs, miniature boats and hardwood furniture, to wooden arches, handcrafted boxes and cabinets, and brasswares.

Stores also offer money exchange to and from foreign currencies.

The Aldev said ‘transformation will begin with the demolition of the buildings on the premises, a necessary step due to the structure’s age and safety considerations.’

‘The work will be carried out in sections to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of pedestrians, workers, and nearby establishments. The company is also working closely with the Office of the City Building Official (OCBO) and other relevant government agencies to ensure full compliance with local regulations,’ it added.

It said the redeveloped property ‘is envisioned to become a flagship mixed-use development that reflects Alsons Dev’s vision for vibrant, sustainable, and people-centric spaces.’

The former tenants relocated to nearby locations when the old Aldevinco closed shop in 2021, many of them transferring to another Aldev-constructed shopping center The Poblacion, the City Triangle or to a new arcade just across the same Claveria Street.

While long-term plans are being finalized, Alsons Dev will temporarily use the 5,106-square-meter site into a paid parking facility by the second quarter of next year. The interim space will feature designated areas for food trucks and carts, offering convenience and new opportunities for small businesses while keeping the property active and vibrant in the heart of the city.

Miguel A. Dominguez, president and chief executive officer of Alsons Dev, said ‘our vision is to build developments that balance heritage and progress, ensuring that every project we undertake supports the city’s growth. As a homegrown developer, we take pride in helping shape Davao’s evolving environment,’

The Aldevinco Shopping Center was launched in 1965 to become the city’s earliest commercial hubs. ‘In over five decades, it transitioned from a vibrant marketplace for local traders to a cultural icon showcasing Mindanao’s rich heritage through textiles, antiques, and handicrafts. Though it ceased operations in December 2021, its legacy continues through Poblacion Market Central, where many original tenants still carry forward the spirit of culture, creativity, and commerce.’

AMID the growing geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will push for maximizing free-trade agreements (FTAs) of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) with its biggest trade partners, including China, at the regional bloc’s upcoming summit in Malaysia during the weekend, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Two major economic trade-related documents-the Second Protocol to amend the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and the Asean-China Free Trade Area (FTA) 3.0 upgrade-are expected to be signed at the 47th Asean Summit, to be held from October 26 to 28.

Both agreements are part of the country’s ‘economic-related’ priorities among the 80 outcome documents from the Summit.

Another important document which is also expected to be finalized during the Summit is the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into Asean as its 11th member.

In a press briefing in Malacañang on Friday, DFA spokesperson Angelica C. Escalona said Marcos will be attending the signing ceremonies of the three documents.

‘In all these engagements, the President will advance Philippine interests in Asean by strengthening security and stability, enhancing economic cooperation, and broadening engagement with dialogue partners,’ Escalona said.

In May, Marcos pushed for updating ATIGA to increase trade in the regional bloc by further removing existing tariff and non-tariff barriers among its members countries.

Areas of cooperation

As for the Asean-China FTA, Escalona said the document is proof that the Philippines’ engagement with Beijing goes beyond disputes related to the West Philippine Sea.

China continues to encroach on the West Philippine Sea, which are parts of the South China Sea within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, even after it was already invalidated by the 2016 Arbitral ruling.

‘As I mentioned, the West Philippine Sea is not the sum total of our relations with China. We look at all the other areas of cooperation as well,’ Escalona said.

The DFA official, however, pointed out that the Philippines will continue to push for the pending Asean-China Code of Conduct for the South China Sea, which is being supported by Marcos for the peaceful settlement of possible maritime disputes in the important waterway.

‘As regards the Code of Conduct, well, as the incoming Chair, the Philippines will work with Asean member states in China for the conclusion of an effective, substantive, and legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea,’ Escalona said when asked if the Philippines will pursue the completion of the said Code of Conduct once it takes over the Asean chairmanship next year.

Aside from China, Asean also has FTAs with South Korea, Japan, India, Australia and New Zealand.

Bilateral engagements

DFA has yet to release the list of countries that will engage Marcos in bilateral talks during the sidelines of the Asean Summit, since it is still being finalized.

However, Escalona noted that the Philippines is expected to have a constructive engagement with the United States on economic matters although she has not confirmed if it will be through a bilateral meeting between Marcos and United States President Donald Trump.

Based on international news reports, Trump is expected to attend the upcoming Asean Summit.

‘Our position is that we want to constructively engage the US and we also want to discuss with other Asean member states on how to improve the Asean trade and make use of our existing FTAs,’ Escalona said.

The President, she said, is also expected to attend the meeting on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), an FTA signed by 15 Asia-Pacific countries, including the Philippines.

‘What will be discussed here is the leaders’ direction in enhancing RCEP implementation and exchanging views on regional and international issues, and this is what I got from the DTI [Department of Trade and Industry],’ Escalona said, partly in Filipino.

Marcos will be accompanied by Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, DTI Secretary Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian, and Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave M. Gomez.

Travis Ratcliff advanced to the gold medal match of traditional mixed martial arts in the Asian Youth Games without breaking a sweat on Friday.

After a unanimous decision victory over Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Abdurashidov in the quatrterfinals on Thursday, Ratcliff got a free pass to the final round when Osimi Begmurodzoda of Tajikistan failed to make weight in the boys 60kg class semifinals at Exhibition World Bahrain.

That means at least a silver medal for Ratcliff, who started training in jiujitsu when he was eight years old.

The 17-year-old Ratliff explained that traditional MMA fighters are required to weigh-in with the gi on, and that he usually needs to be at 59.3 kilos to be able to make the 60kg limit.

‘I hope to deliver gold for my family and the country,’ Ratliff said, adding that he is proud to contribute to the Philippines’ medal haul.

Ratliff faces either Satria Eka Suryo of Indonesia or Amirmohammad Hatamianafshari of Iran on Saturday.

Kram Airam Caprio of Santa Curz, Laguna, delivered the Philippines’ first medal, gold in pencak silat, before Kristen Ambriel Aguila earned silver in the girls’ individual poomsae.

The tecball girls’ pair of Crystal Cariño and Nicole Tabucol from Pangasinan bagged bronze.

Big win for Alas Women

Denesse Daylisan did not flinch when asked whether Alas Pilipinas would continue to make waves beyond the Asian Youth Games.

‘Yes, of course,’ Daylisan said, emphasizing the importance of continuity and cohesion after the team pulled off a stunning 25-20, 25-18, 25-20 win over Asian powerhouse China.

‘If the connection is solid, on and off the court, we can do well in international events.’

But Daylisan, one of the most experienced players on the squad, quickly noted that the Philippine women’s youth team members are not looking too far ahead.

Although locked in for the quarterfinals, the Philippines still has a match against Hong Kong, and Daylisan says the team needs to work on some things as they seek a place in the medal rounds.

‘We still need to polish our game. There are still some lapses that we focus on,’ Daylisan added.

Weightlifters gear up for battle

EYES will be on the Philippine team as the weightlifting competition gets going.

World junior championship gold medalists Jhodie Peralta, Jay-R Colonia and Alexsandra Ann Diaz compete along with Dave Pacaldo, Jerick Castro and Princess Jay Ann Diaz as they try to add to the Philippines’ medal haul.

Action in weightlifting starts on Sunday at the Exhibition World Bahrain in Sakhir.

The Filipinos are coming off a successful campaign in the IWF World Youth and Junior Championships in Lima, Peru, where they bagged 10 gold, three silver, and three bronze medals.

The 16-year-old Peralta, from Zamboanga City, led the Philippine charge during the campaign with three gold medals-snatch, clean and jerk, and total in the women’s youth 55 kg class.

Jay-R, son of Olympian Nestor Colonia, delivered two golds in the men’s youth 49 kg, while Diaz, niece of Philippines’ first ever Filipino Olympic gold medal winner Hidilyn Diaz, had a pair of gold medals in the women’s youth 45 kg event.

Meanwhile, teams from pencak silat, kurash, and teqball already returned to the country after accounting for two of the Philippine delegation’s four medals won so far.

Pesilat Kram Airam Carpio bagged the gold in the girls’ 51-55 kg class of pencak silat, while the duo of Crystal Carino and Nicole Tabucol provided a surprise bronze in the girls’ doubles division of teqball.

Blockchain technology can be a great disruptor towards good governance and address the current challenges.

Mench Dizon, country head of Yield Guild Games (YGG) Pilipinas, told BusinessMirror in an e-mail interview that blockchain technologies can be leveraged to solve some of the Philippines’ most pressing challenges.

‘Especially because blockchains have many use cases: from storing government records, to enabling faster and cheaper remittances for OFWs, to revolutionizing entertainment industries like video games,’ Dizon said.

Further, Sen. Paolo Benigno ‘Bam’ Aquino IV recently filed a significant measure related to blockchain technology called Senate Bill 1330, also known as the ‘Philippine National Budget Blockchain Act’ or the ‘Blockchain the Budget Bill.’

The primary goal of the bill is to enhance transparency, accountability and public participation in the country’s budget process by utilizing blockchain technology.

Key provisions and objectives of the bill include establishment of a National Budget Blockchain System, Real-Time Transparency and Traceability and Public Access. The bill aims to modernize the traditionally opaque budget process and empower citizens by making budget information easier to understand and scrutinize.

Meanwhile, Dizon is bullish on the growing public awareness of blockchain, which will propel its adoption into ‘higher gear.’ She notes: ‘It is fantastic to see more conversation about the way that blockchain technologies can be leveraged to solve some of the Philippines’ most pressing challenges.’

She envisions a broad spectrum of use cases beyond gaming, from secure government records and facilitating faster, cheaper remittances for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), to revolutionizing entertainment industries. Each application, she points out, ‘represents an opportunity to improve the lives of millions of Filipinos.’

Dizon said YGG will serve as a beacon of optimism for the future of blockchain and Web3, particularly in the Philippines. The organization, which pioneered the decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) for gaming, sees the technology not just as a source of entertainment but as a powerful engine for inclusive economic growth and societal change.

For YGG Pilipinas, Dizon said gaming remains the primary vehicle for this massive growth. She said Filipinos view it as the most fun and engaging way to educate Filipinos about blockchain, simultaneously teaching them high-demand digital skills that lead to lucrative, sustainable careers.

‘By doing this, we can create millions of jobs, uplift communities, and drive inclusive economic growth,’ Dizon states, underscoring the organization’s focus on empowering what they call Metaverse Filipino Workers (MFWs).

Dizon said the widespread acceptance of Web3 in the Philippines is a testament to this strategy. What began with the ‘play-to-earn’ boom has evolved into a recognition of MFWs as highly talented professionals. This shift has facilitated a new wave of opportunities, as Dizon observes: ‘We’ve seen former OFWs return home and find new income streams online, students turn their love for gaming into a career.. Their stories of resilience and success show that the future of work is right here in the Philippines.’

Dizon said YGG is bullish on the forthcoming annual YGG Play Summit, scheduled from November 18 to 22, 2025.

With features like the Skill District-an educational hub powered by YGG Pilipinas’ Metaversity-and The Arena for esports tournaments, the summit is more than a gathering; it’s a living blueprint for the future.

‘We wanted to make sure that there’s something for everyone-no matter where they are on their Web3 journey,’ said Dizon.

INSEAD-the ‘Business School for the World’-is proud to announce that its Kurt Björklund Chaired Professor in Innovation and Growth Philippe Aghion has been awarded the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences, or the Nobel Prize in Economics, with Professor Peter Howitt of Brown University and Professor Joel Mokyr of Northwestern University.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences recognized the trio’s groundbreaking research explaining innovation-driven economic growth. Professor Aghion who also serves as Professor at Collège de France and visiting professor at the London School of Economics, together with Professor Howitt, were jointly distinguished for their influential theory of sustainable growth through creative destruction, which demonstrates how new technologies continually replace old ones, driving long-term prosperity.

‘This recognition of Professor Aghion’s pioneering contributions to the theory of economic growth is a moment of great pride for INSEAD,’ said the school’s dean Francisco Veloso. ‘His research has profoundly shaped our understanding of innovation and productivity, offering insights that are more relevant than ever in today’s rapidly changing global economy. ‘

‘Professor Aghion’s achievement reflects the academic excellence of INSEAD faculty,’ added the school’s Deputy Dean and Dean of Faculty Peter Joos. ‘Philippe’s research not only shapes economic theory, but also inspires our academic community to pursue ideas that create meaningful impact in business and society.’

According to INSEAD, the Nobel distinction is a tremendous honor for Professor Aghion and a testament to the depth and global impact of the learning institution’s research. It reinforces the school’s mission to develop leaders and ideas that transform business and society, continuing to position it at the forefront of global thought leadership.

IN a bold move after increasing the prices of their hardwares, Xbox will also be updating the price for their monthly subscription of Game Pass. Xbox will be ‘upgrading’ all of their tiers; Game Pass Core (to be called Game Pass Essential), Game Pass Standard (to be called Game Pass Premium), PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Ultimate, giving access to more library of games and better benefits.

However, while Game Pass Essential and Game Pass Premium will retain their pricing, PC Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate will be getting a hefty price increase.

To alleviate the price increase, Xbox will be upgrading both of these tiers, with PC Game Pass getting Ubisoft+ Classics, with 40-plus games included in their catalogue. On the other hand, Game Pass Ultimate, which will be getting a huge $10 increase, is promising ’75 day one games per year,’ Ubisoft+ Classics games, and additional benefits from the Fortnite Crew subscription. The Philippine Xbox PC Game Pass will increase to P320 from P175.

But fans are not buying this move, with some claiming that it’s cheaper to just buy the games that they want instead of getting the subscription. With Xbox games being in the range of $70, a commenter said that ‘to play Day 1 releases is now $30 a month. After 2 months, that’s nearly enough to own the game outright.’

‘Between this and the [multiple!] console price hikes recently, I simply don’t understand it when everyone is cutting back on spending as is,’ a Redditor also replied. Moreso, gamers don’t see the value of the increase, saying: ‘Not to mention if you wait 2-3 months, the games usually go on sale and you can buy it much cheaper.’

This new tier might price people out of the subscription, especially casuals who enjoy only a few games. As such, people might opt out and cancel their subscription.

If you’re thinking of a quick beach getaway in Batangas, the resorts in Laiya, Nasugbu, and Anilao are usually in the top list.

On the other hand, Lian often gets overlooked, except when crowds flock to its famous Matabungkay Beach. But for those seeking for a laidback, more intimate escape from the concrete jungle, Lian has a slice of calm paradise waiting to be discovered.

From Manila via CALAX, it took a 2.5 hour drive past Tagaytay and Nasugbu before finally reaching the quaint town of Lian. As we drove into a number of neighborhoods, the roads got narrower and it didn’t immediately scream ‘beach town.’ But as soon as we entered a junction asking for a Php35 environmental fee, we noticed a row of resorts lining the street. That’s when I realized, Lian really is a beach destination, just one that flies under the radar and hasn’t yet made waves on social media.

Fiery sunset at the beach in Lian, Batangas

When we spotted the ‘TANA’ signage at the entrance, I felt a quiet anticipation. As we stepped out of the van, we were immediately welcomed by the warm smiles of the staff. As expected, welcome refreshments were served, but what caught me pleasantly off guard was the welcome massage. What a thoughtful touch!

The vibe at TANA Beach Villas felt worlds apart from the bustling streets outside. The atmosphere was zen – manicured lawns, minimal yet inviting greenery, and a Buddha sculpture all set the tone. The sound of gentle waves of the beach can be heard within earshot, inviting everyone to slow down. The sand may be darker in color compared with other beaches in Batangas, but the beauty of it lies in peace and privacy. We had the entire stretch of shoreline to ourselves. For that moment, it felt like our private paradise.

Operated by Approche Hospitality Management, the resort is fairly new and has been running for two years.

The only luxury resort in Lian

Sunset drama and minimalist elegance come together at TANA Beach Villas’ beachfront setting.

For the media familiarization trip to TANA Beach Villas, we had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Justin Tan. He shared that it was originally envisioned as a private rest house for his family before it was later opened to the public and named after his father. The Tan family saw the charm and untapped potential of San Diego’s quiet beach. After building TANA, it seemed others were inspired to follow suit and saw the value of tourism in the barangay.

TANA stands as the first and only luxury resort in Lian. It features nine spacious villas ranging from 25 to 65 square meters, large enough to comfortably accommodate a family of four. Each villa comes with a lounge area, a kitchenette stocked with complimentary tea and coffee, and ensuite toilet and bath.

A home away from home. Each villa has a spacious lounge area and kitchenette with a mini refrigerator.

The facade embraces a modern minimalist aesthetic with smooth stucco finishes, perfectly complementing the tranquil beach backdrop. Inside, a palette of grays and browns adds a touch of understated sophistication. As night falls, the vibe becomes even cozier with lamps illuminating the pathway, while the pool glows softly, inviting a relaxing evening swim.

The restaurant is situated along the beachfront, giving guests a panoramic view of the sea while dining.

The resort’s restaurant and bar, Trese, carries personal meaning as well, named after his mother’s nickname and a nod to her being the 13th child in the family. The restaurant caters to every moment of the day serving a delightful mix of Filipino and Chinese cuisine cooked from freshly caught seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast after a morning swim, a panoramic lunch by the beach, or a romantic dinner under the stars, every meal is a taste of home – elevated with rich flavors and presentation. On weekends, the experience becomes even more special as they invite in a local acoustic singer to serenade guests, setting the perfect mood for an evening of good food, music, and sea breeze.

Guests can enjoy complimentary plated breakfast, fresh fruits, and free-flowing brewed coffee, with options ranging from traditional Filipino dishes to a full American breakfast.

Experiences beyond relaxation

Beyond the resort’s amenities, TANA offers activities for guests seeking a bit of adventure. The staff can coordinate with local tour operators for a day trip to the nearby Fortune Island, famous for its Grecian-inspired ruins and cliffside views, or a scenic horseback ride along the beach. It’s good to know that TANA supports the local community by working with locals and providing them with tour opportunities.

For those who prefer to stay close, the calm waters are perfect for kayaking or simply indulging in the natural beauty of the surroundings. TANA also extends its care to the environment, providing a sanctuary for injured or stranded sea turtles that occasionally make their way to its shores. The resort takes it upon themselves to care for and release these turtles back into the sea, a humble yet heartfelt effort to protect and preserve marine life in Lian.

Lian may not have the buzz of its neighboring beach towns, but that’s exactly what makes it special. This trip made me realize I don’t need a packed itinerary or endless activities to find the tranquility I’ve been craving. In this quiet side of Batangas, I’m reminded that sometimes, doing nothing is exactly what the mind and body need.

Cap off the trip with a Tagaytay stopover

Cantina Mexa is located right in front of The Strype Hotel, also operated by Approche Hospitality Management, along Mahogany Avenue in Tagaytay.

On the drive back to Manila, the ride made it tempting to take a quick stop in Tagaytay. To make the most of the trip, we dropped by Cantina Mexa, a new spot for those craving Mexican favorites and good drinks. The restaurant serves a savory mix of Filipino-Mexican flavors. It was the perfect way to end our serene escape. but that’s a story for another article!

THE Department of Education (DepEd) has earmarked P1.35 billion for the printing, delivery, and training related to Learning Packets and Dynamic Learning Program (DLP) materials, to ensure schools are prepared to mitigate learning disruptions caused by natural disasters.

‘These funds are about preparedness and continuity,’ said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara, stressing that the initiative is aligned with the commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aiming to equip teachers and students with tools that allow classes to continue safely, even when schools are temporarily closed.

‘During hard times, children need more hope and direction. That’s why, even if there’s limited electricity, internet signals or access to schools, there must be a way for learning to continue,’ Angara added, partly in Filipino.

The funding, including the fund from the Regional Offices, covers the printing and distribution of Learning Packets for Grades 1 to 12 amounting to P950 million and Dynamic Learning Program materials of P499 million for Junior High School learners.

Public schools are instructed to provide one set of Learning Packets per grade level to students from Grade 1 to Grade 12.

Each Learning Packet will contain 25 to 50 self-paced activities per grade level, designed to strengthen literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills. Some materials also include enrichment activities for advance learning or life skills development.

The DLP, meanwhile, provides structured, activity-based lessons that students can work on independently. Learners can copy and answer the DLP sheets using paper or notebooks, making it possible to continue learning even without electricity, gadgets, or internet connection.

‘These materials are part of our continuing push for learning resilience. We want to make sure that despite storms, floods or earthquakes, children still have their learning tools. Education must be the last to stop and the first to recover,’ Angara said.

Closer coordination with LGU

The approach also encourages closer coordination with local government units (LGUs) to ensure that schools in high-risk areas can quickly activate alternative learning modes when in-person classes are suspended.

Regional Directors have been instructed to oversee the timely production and delivery of materials and to submit monthly accomplishment reports.

The Bureau of Learning Resources (BLR), Bureau of Learning Delivery (BLD), and the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) will also provide technical assistance and training for teachers and local implementers.

Angara underscored that the initiative reflects DepEd’s commitment to build a future-ready and disaster-resilient education system to further empower teachers and local leaders to act immediately and confidently when disruptions occur.

‘Aside from learning recovery, we must now invest in learning readiness. If the school is ready, the nation is also ready. Education is not only about what we teach in good weather-it’s about how we make learning endure, rain or shine,’ Angara concluded.

SAN Miguel Corporation (SMC) management executives rang the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) trading bell on Friday, October 24, 2025 to mark the official listing of its maiden exchange offering preferred shares-SMC2P, SMC2Q, SMC2R-and preferred securities SMC2S, SMC2T, and SMC2U from its follow-on offering (FOO).

PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon lauded SMC for its optimism when many companies were holding back on raising capital through the equities market. ‘SMC proceeded with their FOO, raising P30 billion for its Series 2-S, 2-T and 2-U prefs, one of the biggest amount of capital raised via an FOO in PSE’s history. Not surprisingly, this FOO, like all previous SMC issuances, was oversubscribed, this time by 1.5 times, again reflecting the investors’ trust and confidence in the company’s superior track record and in the transformative leadership and strategic mindset of SMC’s Chairman and CEO, Mr. Ramon S. Ang, and his very capable management team.’

The funds raised from this FOO will refinance SMC’s short-term loans used to redeem Series 2-F preferred shares and to pay for partial redemption of Series 2-J and 2-K preferred shares; while a portion of the proceeds will be invested in infrastructure projects such as the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan and tollways projects.

Monzon also noted SMC’s strong performance and staunch commitment to excellence and sustainable development that recently earned the company a number of recognitions globally.

‘These accolades not only embody SMC’s corporate leadership, innovation and dedication to nation-building, but position SMC among the world’s frontrunners in ESG,’ Monzon added.