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Flooding is imminent in several parts of Luzon as Typhoon Paolo continues to bring heavy rain this Friday, Oct. 3.

In its 11 a.m. heavy rainfall warning, Pagasa placed Zambales and Bataan under the Orange Rainfall Warning, which means flooding is threatening and residents should be ready to evacuate if needed.

Batangas, Cavite, and several towns in Quezon-Tayabas, Atimonan, Pagbilao, Lucena, Tiaong, San Antonio, Dolores, Sariaya, Candelaria, Perez, Alabat, Quezon, Calauag, Lopez, Guinayangan, Tagkawayan, Buenavista, Mulanay, San Narciso, Catanauan, General Luna, Macalelon, Gumaca, Pitogo, Unisan, Plaridel, Agdangan, Padre Burgos, Polillo, Burdeos, Panukulan, Jomalig, Patnanungan, San Francisco, and San Andres-were under a Yellow Rainfall Warning, indicating possible flooding in flood-prone areas.

Meanwhile, Metro Manila, Rizal, Pampanga, Bulacan, Laguna, and Tarlac, along with other parts of Quezon province, were experiencing light to moderate rain with occasional heavy rain that could persist throughout the day.

Pagasa noted that rainfall could be higher in mountainous areas, with impacts worsened by earlier downpours. /abc

Tickets for the inaugural Fifa Women’s Futsal World Cup that will start on Nov. 21 at Philsports Arena in Pasig City can now be availed online, and fans won’t need to spend a fortune to witness the Filipina5 and some of the best in the indoor scene strut their wares.

Fifa and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) said tickets for the group stage are priced at P1,399 for premium seating and P699 and P499 for the lower and higher sections of the general admission, respectively.

Prices are for each doubleheader, as there will be three matchdays that are going to have four games, and can be purchased through the tickets section of Fifa’s website.

World Cup tickets were made available last Sept. 27 after a presale period.

The Philippines will play host to the first staging of the competition, and joins 15 other nations that were divided into four groups.

The Filipina5 will face Poland in the opening doubleheader of the competition while they’ll also take on Morocco on Nov. 24 and Argentina on Nov. 27 in Group A.

Also in the tournament are Spain, Thailand, Colombia and Canada in Group B, Portugal, Japan, New Zealand and Tanzania in Group C and Brazil, Iran, Italy and Panama in Group D.

Coach Rafa Merino and his Philippine squad are currently in Japan as part of their buildup for the World Cup. The Filipina5 also faced their Japanese counterparts in a friendly.

During their stay, the squad was able to catch up with Paris Olympics double gold medalist Carlos Yulo, who is also training with the national gymnastics team.

Yulo even joined the team in a social media video to promote the upcoming World Cup.

The highly anticipated Klook Travel Fest 2025 is set to return this year, bringing some of the biggest and most irresistible travel deals to Filipino travelers. The three-day festival will run from October 10 to 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at SM Mall of Asia Main Atrium.

‘We’re very excited to be launching this year’s Klook Travel Fest! We’ve strategically patterned our promotions with the results of our Klook Travel Pulse from earlier this year to make sure we’re giving our Klookers deals aligned with what they’re actually looking for,’ Ulla Roqueza, Klook Philippines’ Associate Director for Marketing, shared.

Visitors can look forward to Buy-1-Get-1 Flash Deals, all-day travel freebies, surprise giveaways, and exclusive 50% off promotions, or vouchers with savings of up to ?10,000. Designed to inspire and empower travelers to explore more for less, the event offers unbeatable deals across a wide range of destinations, including the Philippines, Asia, Europe, and Australia.

Deal after Deal, Day after Day

Going to Singapore soon? Score a surprise deal for tickets to different activities in Mandai Wildlife Reserve – from its world-famous Singapore Zoo, the Amazon River Quest at the River Wonders, a nighttime discovery at the Night Safari, to a feathery meet at Bird Paradise, or even an adventure in the multi-layered Rainforest Wild Asia. Discover where adventure, education, and conservation blend into one. If boating is your family’s bet, keep your eyes peeled for flash offers you can enjoy when you purchase Disney Cruise Lines for an aquatic adventure aboard with Duffy and friends – from its themed areas, magical entertainment, and exquisite dining, it’s a holiday you’ll never forget.

Buy 1 Get 1 when Visiting Vietnam

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, this year’s festival has you covered with Buy 1 Get 1 Attraction Tickets for Sun World Vietnam. Look over the stunning views of rich forests and hills from the Sun World Ba Na Hills cable car or ride the breathtaking Alpine Coaster, one of the many attractions in the famous Fantasy Park. More of a beach person? After all the fun at Aquatopia Water Park and Exotica Park, Sun World Hon Thom offers immaculate white beaches, as well as the world’s longest cable car overlooking pristine blue waters. You can also bag tickets to Sun World Fansipan and take the scenic route to the peak of Fansipan Mountain. With options ranging from monorails and funiculars to cable cars and even hiking, the trip is easily customizable to suit your needs and interests.

Whether for family trips or solo travel, Sun World’s recreational parks are perfect for travelers and groups of all ages!

Hot Deals to Hop Around Hong Kong

Explore the beauty of Hong Kong after securing hot discount drops for activities across Asia’s World City. The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a whole experience in itself that’ll sweep you off your feet with a scenic ride to the Ngong Ping Village. BigBus Hong Kong, on the other hand, is a guided open-top bus tour that takes you around the lush city of Hong Kong. Visit the iconic Ocean Park Hong Kong, where adventure awaits, whether you’re exploring the zoo or going on a thrilling ride. Don’t forget the magical Hong Kong Disneyland, where you can experience eight different themed lands that transport you to the magical world of Disney.

Get Even More Discounts with our Payment Partners

After adventuring through all that this year’s Klook Travel Fest has to offer, double down on your deals and get an extra PHP 500 off when you pay with GCash! Get an additional 10% off both local and trending destinations (like Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan), as well as 0% installment for 6 months when using GGives. Maya users get an exclusive 20% off first-time hotel bookings and an extra 15% off on experiences and transport for both local and international destinations. Check out with BDO Credit Cards and Debit Cards to get 15% off your total basket for optimal savings that can be used during your upcoming holiday instead!

Meet Your Favorite Klook Kreators

Awarded the title Kreator of the Year in 2025, you’ll find Jax Reyes gracing the Klook Travel Fest 2025 stage with his TikTok-famous travel hacks! Also in attendance is the real and relatable Marvin Samaco, with his easy-going itinerary inspiration and budget travel tips. Famous travel Kreator, The Poor Traveler, will also be making an appearance to share helpful travel tips for first-timers. Expect more of your favorite Klook Kreators to step into the spotlight throughout the three exciting days of this travel fest.

How to Prepare for Klook Travel Fest 2025

Make sure you don’t miss out on this year’s festivities by following these five simple steps:

Download the app through the Google Play Store or the Apple Store.

Book the Klook Travel Fest 2025 FREE Admission Ticket in Manila and download your free admission QR code for scanning upon entrance.

Stay updated on all things Klook Travel Fest 2025 by following Klook’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Study up by learning how to use the platform!

Prepare all your essentials, like your government ID, your Klook App, and your admission QR code.

Make sure to visit the Klook Travel Fest 2025 for this year’s most exciting travel fest yet! Download the Klook app through the Google Play Store or the Apple Store to discover unforgettable experiences. For more information, follow Klook on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

A. Soriano Corp. (Anscor) has divested its minority stake in The Bistro Group (TBG) for P1.91 billion after less than a year, realizing high gains from its investment in the restaurant group.

In a regulatory filing on Thursday, Anscor said it had executed a deed of sale with Inoza Business Holdings Inc. for its 22-percent stake in TBG Food Holdings Inc.

Inoza is a newly established holding firm affiliated with Progeny Global Holdings Inc. The latter operates Bounty Fresh and limited-service restaurants like Chooks-to-Go and Uling Roasters.

According to Anscor, it realized gross annualized returns ‘greater than 25 percent’ on its investment in TBG.

Not too long ago

Anscor bought a minority stake in TBG in November 2024 for P1.61 billion. This entailed a profit of more than P300 million.

‘Anscor extends its best wishes to the Bistro and Inoza teams,’ the company said. ‘We are confident they will continue delighting Filipino consumers with their quality dining experiences for many years to come and we look forward to seeing their continued success.’

The Philippine Competition Commission approved Inoza’s plan to acquire a majority stake in TBG in August. This, after considering the impact of the deal on the nationwide supply of chicken meat, table eggs, pork and beef.

Multiple brands

The Bistro Group currently owns and operates over 200 full-service restaurants across 33 brands. These include Italianni’s, TGI Fridays and Texas Roadhouse, all of which have a strong presence in the Philippines.

In the first semester of 2025, Anscor’s net income plunged by 65 percent to P1.19 billion. This was attributed to the decrease in market value of its investments. The firm’s revenues likewise slipped by 17 percent to P7.9 billion.

This is the second time Anscor has sold its minority shareholding in companies it had invested in.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has secured a fourth freeze order under the ongoing flood control probe.

This brings the total value of immobilized assets to over P4 billion.

The latest directive put the total number of frozen assets to 1,889.

This includes 1,620 bank accounts, 54 insurance policies, 163 motor vehicles, 40 real properties and 12 e-wallet accounts.

‘These freezes are real actions that stop corruption,’ said AMLC Executive Director Matthew M. David. ‘Every peso frozen is a peso that cannot be used to sustain corruption.’ /rwd

Former Las Piñas-Muntinlupa district engineer Isabelo Baleros was arrested for multiple counts of estafa, Las Piñas City Rep. Mark Anthony Santos said on Friday.

Santos, in a statement, said that Baleros – whom he previously accused of involvement in questionable transactions, including a supposed transfer of funds for flood control projects – was nabbed inside the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) office at the Port Area in Manila.

The arrest order, Santos relayed, was issued by Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 22 Presiding Judge Tammy Ann Reyes Mendillo, under Criminal Case No. R-MNL-25-07000-CR.

Baleros was previously dismissed by former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan due to allegations raised by Santos over the supposed diversion of P450 million in infrastructure projects intended for Las Piñas.

‘This is the tip of the iceberg. If DPWH really wants to prove it is serious about reforms, they must not only fire, but also jail these officials,’ Santos stressed.

‘The P450 million stolen from Las Piñas is not just a number-it’s the people’s hard-earned money. We will not let this go unanswered,’ he further emphasized.

Santos said Baleros was detained at the Baseco Police Station 13 since Thursday, and was able to post a P48,000 bail.

Early August, Santos said that Baleros asked that funds for several projects in Las Piñas be transferred from his district office to the DPWH’s regional office in the National Capital Region, without first consulting local officials.

The move was supposedly approved by Public Works Assistant Secretary Loreta Malaluan and confirmed by then Secretary Manuel Bonoan, amid lack of prior consultation with the Office of the Mayor, the Office of the Congressional Representative, the City Engineering Office, or the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

‘This is a glaring act of bypassing local governance. How can you move hundreds of millions of pesos without informing the elected officials of the city? This reeks of backroom maneuvering,’ Santos said last August 4.

Aside from this, Santos also questioned whether there was visible progress or even initial work on different projects, like the C5 Diversion Road project and other 27 projects listed under the 2025 General Appropriations Act, worth P450 million.

Santos reiterated these observations during the hearing of the House of Representatives’ committee on public accounts, which Bonoan attended.

According to Santos, the P450 million funds were transferred.

INQUIRER then sent messages DPWH officials, including Bonoan himself, to ask for their side of the story, but he has not replied as of posting time.

However, during the committee hearing, Bonoan said he understands Santos’ frustration, adding that he will consider the suggestions made.

‘I fully understand the frustration of the good congressman, and yes, Your Honor, we’ll certainly seriously consider all those proposals, and look into those projects that are now being implemented as you mentioned,’ Bonoan had said.

Allegations surrounding Baleros prompted Santos to suggest that the DPWH adopt a one-strike policy – similar to the one enforced by the Philippine National Police against erring police officers – in terms of reprimanding corrupt engineers.

According to Santos, such a move is necessary at this time to ensure that infrastructure projects are built properly, amid concerns that flood control projects may have been exploited by corrupt politicians, government officials and contractors.

Infrastructure projects, particularly those involving flood control, are being scrutinized right now by different bodies including the House, in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona).

During his Sona, Marcos condemned government officials and contractors who allegedly earned kickbacks from flood control projects, saying that they should be ashamed of themselves.

Marcos’ condemnation came after Senator Panfilo Lacson warned that half of the country’s almost P2 trillion funds from 2011 for flood control projects may have been lost already – necessitating a thorough review of the projects.

Lacson’s warning was prompted by heavy floodings experienced in Metro Manila and its nearby provinces due to three successive cyclones that hit the country and intensified the southwest monsoon.

As of now, several officials of the DPWH have been removed due to the alleged kickback scheme, while Bonoan himself tendered his courtesy resignation.

Both the House and the Senate also paused their investigation on the flood control issue as several lawmakers were accused of involvement in the kickback operations. /apl

Geneva Cruz stood with hundreds of Smokey Mountain residents in Manila to oppose the government’s planned waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration project in the area.

Cruz, who rose to fame as part of the 1990s quartet Smokey Mountain – named after the former dumpsite – recently joined more than 500 urban poor residents during the Day of Action Against Incineration at San Pablo Apostol Parish in Tondo.

‘The people of Smokey Mountain have struggled with the impacts of poverty and environmental injustice, now facing job losses, forced evictions, and reprisals from proponents of the WTE project,’ she earlier wrote on social media.

The singer performed a medley of Smokey Mountain hits – ‘Kailan,’ ‘Paraiso’ and ‘Better World’ – inside the parish covered court on Sept. 30 as she later joined residents’ protest chants.

The P26-billion WTE facility, backed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is envisioned as a solution to the country’s waste and flooding problems. However, environmental groups and residents warn the project threatens livelihoods and health.

‘WTE incinerators generate hazardous emissions and threaten the livelihoods of wastepickers who have always been at the forefront of cleaning Manila’s waste through recycling,’ said Shey Levite of EcoWaste Coalition, a co-organizer of the event.

Fr. Allan Ferdinand Dizon, FdCC, who led the parish Mass, stressed that the displacement of families in Smokey Mountain runs counter to the dignity of the poor.

Other groups, such as 350 Pilipinas, the Philippine National Waste Workers Alliance and Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap, echoed concerns over health risks, corruption and forced evictions tied to the project.

The event concluded with the launch of the Manila Anti-Incinerator Alliance (MAIA), a new coalition of community groups pledging sustained action against the planned facility.

The groups are planning larger actions against the WTE project until the President and other relevant agencies sit down with them in meaningful consultation.

The National Environment Agency defines WTE as ‘waste treatment technologies that convert waste into energy by using heat, most commonly incineration.’ It is often criticized for its harmful air pollution.

The Philippine government is exploring ways to fire up the planned nuclear market as it sees more interests both from local and foreign investors, according to an energy official.

Patrick Aquino, director of the Department of Energy’s Energy Utilization Management Bureau, said all eyes are on the country’s nuclear targets. This, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave the green light for the creation of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom).

This development, Aquino said, is crucial for investors. It signals the current administration’s commitment to advancing the adoption of nuclear energy.

Aquino said what investors really look for is regulatory certainty.

‘That’s why I started off by saying PhilAtom is the clearest signal of this administration, that we’re dead serious in getting nuclear [energy] for power generation,’ he told reporters. This was on the sidelines of the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum in Taguig.

‘We’re attracting investments. Our reforms, whether it’s in economic or social capital investments, and now even here in the energy sector. we do have to start thinking and investing the seeds for the entry of nuclear [energy] in the medium and long term,’ Aquino added.

1,200 MW in 7 years

The government hopes to activate 1,200 megawatts of nuclear energy capacity by 2032. About 15 potential sites have been identified. Aquino, however, declined to name the locations. The DOE still needs to gain the support of the local government units and host communities.

According to Aquino, the DOE is studying the possibility of dedicating a specific bidding for nuclear energy, separate from the green energy auction program. The program is designed to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects nationwide.

He said it was also ‘a very good idea’ to tap multinational banks to de-risk nuclear projects.

‘On the side of the Philippines, we’re very happy that the current US administration is taking the charge on making sure that the World Bank relaxes its policy for green investments to include nuclear,’ he said.

Aquino was hopeful that with Washington’s backing, multilateral agencies, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, would also ‘revisit their investment direction and instruction when it comes to nuclear.’

The forum gathered expertise in the nuclear space from Canada, Argentina, the US, and South Korea. Local potential players, like Manila Electric Co. and Aboitiz Power, also participated in the event. /rwd

As the hospitality industry embraces a new era of healthier choices and mindful living, Novotel Manila Araneta City is set to ignite the movement with its very first Weekend Wellness Festival, Find Your Balance, happening on October 4, 2025. In celebration of the hotel’s 10th anniversary, the festival will be held across the 6th floor (In Balance Fitness and Pool, The 6th Manila) and the 7th floor (Versailles Tent, Garden and Courtyard), offering guests a unique backdrop for wellness and rejuvenation. This groundbreaking event is more than a festival, it’s a one-day immersive wellness experience designed for a generation that craves balance, energy, and transformation.

From sunrise to sunset, guests will embark on a full-day journey to recharge the body and calm the mind. The program kicks off with registration at 8AM, followed by the official start of activities a 9AM, and wraps up at around 6PM. To extend the celebration, an exclusive Morning Yoga session on October 5 will also be offered for in-house guests, giving them a second day of mindful movement and renewal.

Expect heart-pumping HIIT and Bootcamp workouts powered by Technogym Philippines, alongside comprehensive fitness and health assessments to help participants better understand their personal wellness journey. Guests can also cool down with a refreshing and revitalizing ice bath led by OCA Collective (movement and recovery studio designed for everyone seeking balance and inspiration), complemented by the relaxing steam bath and rejuvenating massages brought by In Balance Spa (Asmara Spa) using Yoga Love Ph products.

For mindful movement, participants can strengthen their core through a mat Pilates class with OCA Collective, and experience the grounding calm of sound healing sessions. Culinary wellness also takes the spotlight with a healthy and sustainable lunch prepared by Novotel’s Culinary Team, a ‘Make Your Own Energy Drink’ activity with Oster, and a calming tea tasting session courtesy of Dilmah.

Adding expertise and inspiration to the festival are seasoned coaches and wellness practitioners. Angelica Arciga of Technogym Philippines will energize participants with dynamic HIIT and Bootcamp sessions, while Pamela Maia of OCA Collective will guide them through an invigorating ice bath. Jennifer Anne Odronia-Aquino, also from OCA Collective, will lead the mat Pilates class, helping guests build strength, flexibility, and mindful movement from within. Naz Nekoudast of OCA Collective will share her holistic approach to mind and body renewal through sound healing and an exclusive Morning Yoga session on October 5, open only to in-house guests. Luisa Tonelada will introduce a calming tea ritual experience in partnership with Dilmah, while experts from In Balance Spa, featuring Yoga Love Ph products, will provide rejuvenating massages. To complete the wellness journey, specialists from Technogym Philippines will conduct fitness and health assessments to support each guest’s personal path to wellness.

The hotel itself is also proudly taking part in this journey, as Executive Sous Chef Athena Tuble and the Novotel Culinary Team prepare a healthy and sustainable lunch for the day. ‘We’ve mindfully crafted a menu that highlights healthy macros without compromising flavor,’ shares Executive Sous Chef Tuble. ‘Our goal is to give guests a nourishing dining experience that supports their wellness journey, while showcasing the fresh and sustainable ingredients Novotel is known for.’

The experience goes beyond movement. Each guest will receive an exclusive welcome kit filled with wellness essentials, including a Novotel Manila sports bag from My Novotel Manila Boutique’s The Gift Shop. They will also enjoy full access to the In Balance gym, pool, and steam room, along with a sustainable, nourishing lunch paired with all-day wholesome refreshments to keep the energy flowing.This isn’t just about attending an event, it’s about embracing a lifestyle where health, balance, and community take center stage. ”Find Your Balance’ is more than just a festival, it’s a wellness movement,’ said Mischa Cruz-Tongo, Recreation Manager of Novotel Manila Araneta City. ‘We see people today making conscious choices to live healthier, more sustainable, and more mindful lives. As we celebrate 10 years of Novotel Manila, we’re proud to host this first-ever wellness festival to inspire our community to embrace a lifestyle of balance and well-being.’

Tickets are now available at special anniversary rates: Walk-in guests at PHP 5,999 nett, In Balance Wellness Members at PHP 4,499 nett, Accor Plus Members at PHP 4,299 nett, and limited Early Bird slots (limited slots are also available via My Novotel Manila Boutique) at PHP 3,999 nett. With only 20 participants welcomed into this intimate wellness experience, slots are extremely limited. Pre-registration is required through www.novotelmanilaaranetacity.com. Participants must be 18 years old and above, physically fit to join the activities, and are advised to wear comfortable workout attire and rubber shoes for an enjoyable and safe wellness event.

With this pioneering wellness festival, Novotel Manila Araneta City strengthens its role not only as a destination for world-class hospitality but also as a hub for health, balance, and mindful living right in the heart of The City of Firsts, Araneta City. This weekend wellness festival is supported by Technogym Philippines, OCA Collective, Oster, Yoga Love Ph, Asmara Spa, and Dilmah.

With billions of pesos allocated to various infrastructure projects by the government, ensuring their efficient and effective implementation is not just a matter of good governance, but a sacred trust placed upon public officials and contractors alike. A cornerstone mechanism to safeguard this trust is the implementation of performance bonds.

The primary purpose is to shield a government agency, as the project owner, from any financial losses should the contractor fail to uphold their contractual obligations. This protection extends to various critical aspects, including the timely completion of the project, adherence to specific engineering and quality specifications, and the prompt rectification of any defects or issues that may emerge during the stipulated warranty period.

The process begins with the contractor being mandated to procure a performance bond from a reputable surety company. This bond is usually pegged at a specific percentage of the total contract value-commonly ranging between 10 percent and 20 percent. This financial commitment acts as an initial deterrent against noncompliance, ensuring the contractor has a vested interest in successful project delivery.

If a contractor defaults or fails to meet contract terms, the government files a claim, prompting the surety to conduct an impartial investigation into the alleged breach. Upon validation of the claim, the surety company is empowered to take decisive action to remedy the situation. The surety may opt to engage a new, qualified contractor to ensure the project’s completion, or directly compensate the government agency for the financial losses incurred due to the original contractor’s default. Alternatively, it could negotiate a settlement with the defaulting contractor, compelling them to rectify the issues at their own expense.

The benefits of enforcing performance bonds are manifold and undeniable. They serve as a powerful tool for risk mitigation, significantly reducing the likelihood of project delays, costly overruns, or substandard workmanship. With this financial cushion, the government is better positioned to navigate unforeseen challenges.

Performance bonds are not optional extras but often a requirement in government infrastructure projects globally to ensure that public funds are utilized efficiently and effectively. They provide an essential layer of protection and accountability, guaranteeing that projects are completed to the required standards.

Yet critical questions remain: Are these safeguards, particularly the enforcement and claiming of performance bonds, consistently observed as standard practice? While the legal frameworks are in place, realities on the ground often paint a different picture, prompting citizens to question their application.

We frequently witness reports of ghost projects, stalled projects, abandoned sites, significant delays, and visible defects in newly completed infrastructure. We hear of contractors who seemingly vanish after receiving initial payments, leaving projects unfinished or grossly inadequate. While a performance bond should prevent or mitigate such scenarios, the persistence of these issues raises serious doubts about the efficacy of its enforcement. Are government agencies consistently demanding these bonds? Are they diligently pursuing claims against sureties when defaults occur? Or are these bonds becoming mere paper requirements, overlooked in the rush to commence projects, or worse, deliberately ignored?

The implications of failing to observe and enforce performance bonds are severe and far-reaching. It translates into wasted public funds, delayed services for our communities, and a profound erosion of public trust in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. Without robust enforcement, the purpose of these bonds-to protect the public and ensure accountability-is rendered moot.

Enforcing them protects public funds, prevents substandard work, and helps build a more resilient, prosperous Philippines.