Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

There’s a hilarious before-and-after meme going around featuring Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon referencing job applicants and a popular tune of 1980s British rock band The Smiths.

The ‘Before DPWH’ photo shows Dizon all smiles and dapper in a casual business suit beaming at the camera. The ‘after’ photo has Dizon, now Public Works Secretary, dressed in a crumpled shirt and rain jacket, his face all scrunched-up in frustration and hair askew, while he is in the field probably inspecting another substandard flood project. The meme’s caption goes (sing it with me): ‘I was looking for a job and then I found a job, and heaven knows I’m miserable now..’

I don’t know what possessed Sec. Vince to accept the job as Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) chief, when he was hardly finished with his work at the Department of Transportation (DOTr). I, for one, was still hoping he could order the construction of an escalator or elevator at the MRT Ortigas station. That is probably the worst hiking experience for commuters ever-after the legendary Mount Kamuning pedestrian footbridge.

(But as one former Cabinet Secretary told me, when I lightly ridiculed him about accepting his position, ‘You can’t say ‘No’ to the President.’ I of course retorted flippantly, ‘Yes you can!’)

But as difficult as the job Sec. Vince had to do in DOTr-although the cleanup there had already been initiated by his immediate predecessor, former airline executive Jimmy Bautista-the job of auditing and inspecting DPWH flood-control projects is probably not just exhausting but most likely depressing, as one can imagine. A trillion pesos in substandard or ghost flood-control projects in the past decade?! And yet we have floods everywhere?!?!

That staggering amount made me wince in utter grief and frustration.but, yes, anger soon followed-the reason I went out of my home, like so many thousands of other Filipinos all over the country on Sunday, September 21, to protest the continuing corruption in government. Ironically, it was the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines by the current President’s father, the late strongman Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.-a name also synonymous with corruption.

It was Marcos Jr., of course, who opened the.uhmmm.floodgate of allegations and investigations into these DPWH projects, after he called out their irregularities and the possible collusion of some government executives. He later named 15 private construction companies which implemented these highly questionable projects.

And while both houses of Congress continue their respective probes into the flood-control mess, along with the President’s own recently formed investigation body, the Independent Commission on Infrastructure, Sen. Loren Legarda, rightly so, recently raised the possibility that the corruption in DPWH may also cover other projects it implements for government agencies like the Departments of Health (DOH), Education (DepEd), Agriculture (DA), and Tourism (DOT).

Under the current setup, funds are lodged with the DOH, DepEd, and DA for infrastructure projects. These agencies then download these funds to the DPWH to construct those projects as it has the engineering expertise. (For tourism roads, funds for their construction are directly allocated to the DPWH, since the law doesn’t provide the DOT any infrastructure construction function, per se.)

During the hearing of DOT’s budget on September 25, Legarda demanded: ‘How would we know, as I said, health centers and hospitals, tourism roads, farm-to-market roads, DepEd school buildings, all DPWH [projects, have been completed?] If there could be some standard, or even goals in the DPWH for their own organic projects, what more the other agencies? Baka naman nabibiktima ang mga ibang departments?’

She continued, ‘If we allocate [project funds] in the other departments to be implemented by an agency, which has gained notoriety of late, and inaamin nila [that] this is this is what happens, we might be wasting the whole national budget, right?’

The senior lawmaker likewise instructed Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco not to rely on the reports of the DPWH regarding the status of tourism roads, and instead have the latter’s own regional executives visit these projects for more accurate reporting.

Frasco had said during the budget hearing that 882.28 kilometers of tourism roads were completed by the DPWH from 2022 to 2024, under the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP). These projects cost over P46 billion.

To recap, the DOT and DPWH jointly forged TRIP in 2012, under the terms of then Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. and then Public Works chief Rogelio ‘Babes’ Singson. The convergence program calls on both agencies to agree on priority tourism roads that have to be built. These roads are designed to connect vital infrastructure like airports or seaports to resorts and hotels in key tourism destinations.

Following Senator Legarda’s own questions regarding the credibility of the DPWH’s tourism roads report, an agency insider told me that the Secretary will also have these projects probed. ‘It’s in Sec. Vince’s plan. We’re just gathering momentum to investigate those projects, too,’ my source assured.

So Sec. Vince certainly has more than enough work on his head, his shoulders, his hands, and his feet. Thank goodness he is young enough to have the energy to keep going around and inspecting all these DPWH projects. (I guess he has been hard-pressed to delegate the inspections as he is unsure how far corruption in the agency goes, and who can actually be trusted to give him honest monitoring reports.)

Sec. Vince should take loads of vitamins and minerals to keep up with the demands of his job.

Meanwhile, lawmakers-especially those alleged to have received kickbacks on these irregular DPWH projects- and officials of this administration have been put on notice. Judging from the numbers that joined the protest marches and rallies last September 21, we, the Filipino taxpayers, are not having any of this foolishness. We are keeping a close watch on the goings on attending this flood-control mess. And we are hoping something good for the country eventually comes out of these investigations, after all the hearings have been wrapped up.

Filinvest has been listed as one of the Elite Award winners at the Hubexo Asia Awards 2025, a rare honor given only to architecture and developer firms that have consistently excelled by winning ten or more times over the past two decades.

This elite recognition celebrates industry pioneers who have set the benchmark for innovation and achievement across seven key Asian markets: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

On top of this exclusive milestone, Filinvest also secured a place among the Top 10 Developers in Asia Awards 2025. This distinction recognizes firms that are shaping the future of the region’s real estate industry through scale, impact, and consistent delivery of high-quality developments. This dual recognition underscores the strength of Filinvest’s real estate businesses, affirming its position as among the region’s most outstanding, resilient, and future-focused developers-trusted to shape innovative communities that continue to set new benchmarks for excellence.

Filinvest earned its place among this exclusive circle through the combined achievements of its real estate arms, Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) and Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI). Their multiple wins over the years at the Hubexo Asia Awards reflect the group’s enduring leadership and unwavering commitment to building sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready communities.

Filinvest Land, Inc., one of the country’s most trusted and multi-awarded full-range developers, has established a nationwide footprint with a diverse portfolio of residential communities, integrated townships, commercial centers, offices, co-living spaces, and industrial parks. Guided by its mission to enrich Filipino lives, FLI continues to bring innovative, accessible, and meaningful developments to different parts of the Philippines.

Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI) is the group’s premier high-end residential and township arm. Its flagship development, Filinvest City in Alabang, is the country’s only township with both LEED Gold and BERDE certifications-an embodiment of excellence in sustainable urban planning. FAI’s multi-awarded luxury residential brand, Filigree, showcases its commitment to superior design, comfort, and quality through standout developments such as Botanika Nature Residences and Golf Ridge Private Estate. These prime examples reflect FAI’s dedication to creating refined, future-ready communities that elevate modern living. With its pioneering approach and best-in-class portfolio, FAI continues to set the benchmark for high-value residential developments.

‘To be named among the Elite Asia Award winners is both humbling and inspiring. It affirms Filinvest Land’s decades-long commitment to building communities that improve lives, while also challenging us to continue raising the bar of excellence. This milestone is not just about looking back at our achievements, but about strengthening our vision of a more inclusive and sustainable future,’ said FLI President and CEO Tristan Las Marias.

‘We are honored to be recognized for pioneering communities that balance progress, environmental stewardship, and livability. This award affirms Filinvest Alabang’s position at the forefront of sustainable township developments and also our commitment to providing world-class homes for discerning clientele with our luxury residential brand Filigree. It inspires us to continue setting new standards in the industry.’ said FAI President and CEO Catherine Ilagan.

Being named an Elite Asia Award winner is both a recognition of Filinvest’s past achievements and a call to continue its pioneering work in shaping the future of real estate. The recognition comes at a special milestone, as the Filinvest Group marks its 70th year, further affirming its enduring legacy of excellence, while reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in nation-building and as one of Asia’s benchmark setters in property development.

MERCEDES-BENZ Philippines has added the new GLE 400 e 4MATIC Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) to its electrified lineup. The German automaker claims the hybrid luxury SUV combines performance and efficiency. Its bold design, smart features, and electrified powertrain set a new standard for sustainable luxury in the Philippine Plug-in Hybrid segment.

AMG Styling

Regarding the exterior, the GLE 400 e boasts its AMG Line body styling, highlighted by the diamond grille with the Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome. These AMG elements include the front apron with chrome trim strip, side sill panels painted in the vehicle color, and rear apron with a diffuser-look insert in black and a trim strip in chrome. Other design features include distinctive air inlets at the front and rear, wing flares painted in the vehicle color, electrically folding exterior mirrors, an auto-dimming driver’s side exterior mirror, aluminum roof rails, and illuminated running boards with rubber studs.

In addition, the vehicle features Multibeam LED Headlamps, which use individually controlled LEDs to adjust light distribution and include Adaptive High Beam Assist Plus for optimal illumination. The latest model also sports 21-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, designed for a blend of performance and visual appeal.

Inside, the GLE 400 e features the MBUX multimedia system with dual 12.3-inch displays and Augmented Reality Navigation. The model supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HDD Navigation, Active Parking Assist, and a 360-degree camera. The cabin uses ARTICO leather and MICROCUT microfiber, while the Burmester surround sound system ensures high-quality audio.

The cabin offers heated front seats, power-folding 40/20/40 second row, and memory functions for the electrically adjustable seats. There is a rear sunblind, Thermotronic Automatic Climate Control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and standard 64-color ambient lighting.

Other features include a Nappa leather sport steering wheel, chrome interior package, anthracite open-pore oak trim, black roof liner, and panoramic sunroof. AMG-branded floormats and sports pedals add finishing touches.

Intelligent Hybrid Power

Motivation comes from plug-in hybrid technology that combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering 252 hp and 400 N-m of torque. AC charging supports up to 11kW. The car provides an all-electric range of over 100 km (measured on the official test cycle). The AC charging socket is Type 2 and includes a cable for use with a domestic plug. A 7kW wall box charger with a 5m cable is also available.

The 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensures strong traction on varying roads. DYNAMIC SELECT offers drive modes suited for efficiency or performance.

Safety and convenience

The GLE 400 e includes advanced safety features like the PRE-SAFE system, which prepares occupants for collisions, and Active Brake Assist, which helps prevent or lessen accidents by monitoring traffic and intervening when needed.

Standard safety features include ABS, ESP, DSR, electronic traction, Hill-Start Assist, adaptive brake lights, ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection, and ISOFIX child-seat mounts. Other features: comfort seatbelts, window and knee airbags, pedestrian protection, belt tensioners, tire pressure warning, and Urban Guard Vehicle Protection.

As for comfort and convenience, there is a DIRECT SELECT gearshift with steering wheel shift paddles, central locking (remote control with selective and global opening), cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter, Keyless-Go Comfort Package, hands-free package, ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice control, wireless charging for mobile phone in front, and additional USB ports.

Pricing and color

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 e PHEV with EQ Technology retails at P5.790 million. Available colors are Selenite Grey, High-Tech Silver, Obsidian Black, and Polar White.

San Beda recovered from a shaky start to sweep Lyceum of the Philippines University, 26-24, 25-18, 25-20, and claim the solo lead in Pool A of the 2025 Shakey’s Super League Preseason Unity Cup on Friday at Paco Arena.

Angel Habacon and Janelle Bachar led the way as the Lady Red Spikers notched their second win in as many matches.

Habacon scored 11 points from nine attacks and two aces. Bachar chipped in eight points, while Katie Molina and Chynna Castillo each added seven.

The Lady Red Spikers struggled to shake off the debuting Lady Pirates in the opening set, which was extended after Johna Dolorito’s crosscourt hit.

Bachar responded with a kill, and Dolorito’s error sealed the set for San Beda.

The Lady Red Spikers face a tough challenge against defending champion National University in their final group stage match.

Janeth Tulang scored 11 points and Joanne De Guzman added eight for Lyceum.

Earthquake victims in some towns in northern Cebu province call for help as they battle rain, the cold weather at night and their desperate need for food while still waiting for relief goods to reach their area.

Arg De Real, a resident of Sitio Pandan, Barangay Mahawak in Medellin town, uploaded photos on Wednesday showing some of his family members and other evacuees sleeping under a blanket of transparent plastic to shield them from the rain.

De Real shared that there are currently an estimate of 400 families there who evacuated after the magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck northern Cebu on Tuesday evening, September 30, 2025.

‘Duol ra man mi og dagat sad. Ni bakwit lang mi sa bukid (We are living near the sea. That’s why we evacuated here to the hilly area),’ he told Business Mirror in an interview on Thursday.

Most of them, he shared, only brought plastic bags so they can use it to shield them from the rain while some were fortunate enough to have some tents.

Fear prevents them from going back to their houses, especially at night, as the town continues to experience aftershocks.

They called on authorities to help them as they are running out of food to eat.

‘Untag hatagan tanan peru ug kamu mang hatag unaha tawn amoa kay murag dili kaabot sa amoa [We hope that everyone gets to receive it, but if you can help us, please prioritize us as we haven’t received any help yet],’ he added.

He emphasized that they currently need food, water to drink, and tents there.

Amidst the tragedy, De Real still keeps a positive mind saying they are all ‘good’.

Different photos spread all over social media where evacuees seek help in order for relief goods and aid to reach them.

An uploader also posted a photo of kids photographed along the highway in San Remigio town raising cardboards with the words printed, ‘Walay tarong kaon’ (Have not eaten well) and ‘Help us. More food, water’.

The Cebu Provincial Government reported they have sent 7,622 food packs to Medellin town and 300 food packs to San Remigio as of 5pm on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

This is apart from the water bottles and other relief items that were also sent there.

In a video interview by local station MyTV Cebu, Mayor Edwin Salimbangon said the quake left many residents traumatized such that they opted to stay on the roadside and open fields.

Salimbangon said the town has received initial relief good,s but it could only last up to two days.

The municipality has opened its Tourist Rest Area to serve as a 24/7 drop-off site for donations.

No permit needed to bring aid

Private individuals and groups who wish to directly send their donations to affected areas don’t need to get a permit.

The Cebu Provincial Government clarified this, even as it advised the volunteers to ‘proceed with extra caution and remain vigilant’ since there are still aftershocks there.

‘Donations coursed through the Capitol will be received and recorded at the Command Center to ensure transparency, proper documentation, and accountability, and to guarantee that assistance reaches those in need.,’ the Cebu Provincial Government said in a statement.

Team North delivered solid performances despite the heavy rain and strong winds from Typhoon Paolo, winning the International Container Terminal Services Inc. North vs South Elite Junior Philippine Golf Tour Championship crown on Friday in Cabuyao, Laguna.

Needing just 10 wins on the last day, North added an extra for good measure.

In the final singles matches, North secured 11 wins and 2 halves out of 24 games, surpassing the 24.5-point mark to seal a 26½-21½ victory at The Country Club.

North led from the start, winning the Four-ball format 8-4 and edging South 6½-5½ in Foursomes.

South rallied late, winning 11 matches and narrowing the gap to 21-23 with several matches still in play.

Then came the turning point.

Vito Sarines, tied with South’s Ralph Batican, chipped in from 20 yards on the rain-soaked 18th hole for birdie, sealing a 2-up win in the boys’ 11-14 division and pushing North to 24 points.

The clincher came quietly at hole 15, where Jakob Taruc defeated Eric Jeon 4 and 3 in the boys’ 15-18 division, securing the title with North’s 25th point.

Rafa Anciano pulled off a comeback 3 and 2 win over Precious Zaragosa, and Zach Villaroman halved his match with Alexis Nailga to finalize the score.

‘The lead in Day 1 was very, very important,’ said Team North captain’s representative Joey Anciano. ‘It’s like a step inside the door already. Day 2 was to maintain or increase the lead and we also won, leaving us with 10 matches and a draw to win the cup.’

North took early control in nine of the first 15 pairings, while four matches remained tied in the 7-10 and 11-14 age groups.

South’s top juniors from Visayas and Mindanao fought back. In boys’ 11-14, four South players led early, but North’s Edoc and Sarines clawed back to halve their matches, slowing South’s momentum.

North held firm in the younger divisions, showing poise under pressure. Even after standout Patrick Tambalque withdrew due to injury while leading his match, North’s depth carried them through.

‘Every match the players did their best and that’s what’s important. That’s why we have this kind of tournament. Golf is an individual sport, but we are blessed to have this event which is also all about teamwork,’ Anciano said.

‘All our players are gifted-they’re talented, strong hitters, and strong in their individual games,’ Anciano said. ‘Actually, it can go both ways, but again we had a strategy through all three days and it worked. So we’re happy to win this one.’

In singles, Halo Pangilinan opened with a 6 and 5 win over James Rolida in boys’ 7-10. Mavis Espedido followed with a 5 and 3 win, countering South’s early point from Kvan Alburo. Ronee Dungca, Zach Guico, and Jacob Casuga added dominant wins in boys’ 11-14. Winter Serapio and twins Lisa and Mona Sarines swept their matches in the girls’ divisions.

South responded with wins from Lucas Revilleza, Denise Mendoza, Zuri Bagaloyos, Rafella Batican, Crista Miñoza, and Tashanah Balangauan. Marcus Dueñas, Jared Saban, and Mhark Fernando added late victories, leveling the singles at 8 wins each.

But North’s five-point cushion from team play proved decisive.

Tiffany Bernardino’s late collapse allowed Mikela Guillermo to halve their match, briefly delaying North’s celebration.

Standout players for North included Espedido, Dungca, Casuga, Serapio, and the Sarines twins, who swept all their matches. For South, Balangauan and Miñoza went unbeaten.

Fortune Life Insurance Company, one of the Hole Sponsors, joined the Philippine Insurance Cup Golf Tournament on September 4, 2025 at the Riviera Golf Club in Silang, Cavite.

Organized by the Philippine Insurers and Reinsurers Association (PIRA), in partnership with the Insurance Institute for Asia and the Pacific (IIAP) and the Philippine Insurers Club (PIC), the event brought together industry leaders for a day of camaraderie and competition.

Representing Fortune Life was Business Development Director George Mercado, building connections and championing our commitment to meaningful partnerships and industry engagement.

Fortune Life is part of the ALC Group of Companies, founded by the late Amb. Antonio L. Cabangon Chua.

BingoPlus turned dreams into reality as ten of its players are now proud owners of brand-new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i cars. The lucky winners won through the platform’s exciting lucky draw and officially received their dream cars during the awarding ceremony on September 27 and October 1 in Taguig City.

One of the winners, a family man from Laguna, works at a factory and only plays during his free time using extra money. He has been an avid player for almost two years. He expressed his joy after winning his first car, saying, ‘For the first time, magkasasakyan. Ang pangarap ko lang noong isang taon, motor lang. Ngayon, sasakyan ang binigay. Kaya masaya po.’

Another winner, who has only been playing for five months, previously worked abroad and now takes on welding jobs on the side. He became emotional as he recalled his experience during a fire disaster, expressing deep gratitude for this life-changing turn of events. ‘Actually sir, talagang nasunugan talaga kami, buong bahay namin. Tsaka nadamay din po yung paupahan ng aking mga magulang. Talagang totally zero kami eh, lahat eh. Nakakalungkot nga, sir. Eto, malaking tulong ‘tong BingoPlus sa amin. para mabawi namin yung nawala sa amin,’

A senior citizen who has been a BingoPlus player for only over three months is also a new car owner. She used to enjoy playing traditional bingo, then her grandchild introduced her to BingoPlus so she could enjoy the game online from the comfort of her home. She emphasized that her grandchild assured her it’s a safe platform, and in this digital age, it’s also efficient.

Also sharing his story of perseverance is a vendor of clothes and shoes who has been a BingoPlus user for a year. Without a permanent store to sell his goods, he often faces challenges, especially during rainy days. Hence, he expressed how grateful he is for the unexpected win, he said, ‘Di ko naman hinihingi yun kay Lord eh pero binigay na sa’kin. Sobrang thankful po ako kay Lord kasi sobrang blessings po yung binigay niya sa’kin.’ He shared that through this blessing, it will help him invest in his business, build a house, and support his family.

From the province of Lanao del Sur, another BingoPlus player’s life changed in an instant. He shared that the first thing he plans to do is take a vacation with his friends and travel in his new car to celebrate the win. Meanwhile, another winner of a brand-new car is a gardener from Baguio, who had always dreamed of owning one-and now, his dream has finally come true.

Although they all have different stories, all of them were initially skeptical about winning such a huge reward. But after confirming their prize, they proudly attested to how legitimate and reliable BingoPlus truly is.

Grateful to BingoPlus, the lucky winners shared heartfelt messages for the brand. Likewise, they all advocated for responsible gaming, emphasizing the importance of knowing one’s limits-something they personally practice.

The grand prize, a BYD Sealion 6 DM-i car, can be acquired by a lucky draw daily. To earn draws, simply log in to a BingoPlus account and place a ?500 bet or make a ?100 deposit. New users also earn free draws upon their first log-in. In partnership with the International Series Philippines, the daily free car campaign also offers other exciting rewards, including an iPhone 17 Pro Max, Suzuki Burgman, AirPods Max, and ISP Music Festival tickets. The promo runs from September 9 through October 6.

Through the life-changing stories of its winners, BingoPlus proves that beyond entertainment, it is a platform that brings hope, joy, and new opportunities to Filipinos. Thus, BingoPlus continues to redefine entertainment and elevate its purpose-turning ordinary moments into extraordinary milestones in one’s life.

SUPER typhoons developing in the western North Pacific, including those that pass through the Philippines, are now forming with heavier rains and stronger winds than those recorded in past decades, a new climate study has found.

In a September report, climate research group Climameter said storms similar to Super Typhoon Nando (international name: Ragasa) have become around 1°C warmer.

A typical storm now carries up to 10 millimeters more rainfall per day and blows about 4 kilometers per hour faster than comparable typhoons in the past, the study indicated.

‘They contribute to more extreme rainfall and flooding risks, particularly in the Philippines’ mountainous terrain and neighboring coastal regions,’ climate scientists Davide Faranda, Tommaso Alberti and Gianmarco Mengaldo said.

The researchers analyzed weather patterns linked to Nando’s rapid intensification, comparing how similar storms would behave under current conditions.

They are based on data from 1987 to 2023 versus how they might have developed in an earlier climate, from 1950 to 1986.

Results showed that recent super typhoons have shallower surface pressures by about 1 hectopascal, which marks stronger storm systems. Warmer sea and air temperatures also add more moisture to the atmosphere, meaning increased rainfall along the typhoon’s track.

Further, the report added that precipitation changes show up to 10 millimeters more rain each day, while winds are slightly faster near coastlines and offshore areas.

The study also compared conditions across several locations. Urban areas such as Kaohsiung in Taiwan and Calayan in northern Luzon now experience significantly wetter storms, while Hong Kong recorded minimal changes in temperature and a slight dip in wind intensity.

Some shifts in storm paths or rainfall distribution, they noted, could be influenced by natural climate cycles, such as the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, or a decades-long natural warming and cooling cycle of the North Atlantic Ocean

‘However, the long-term changes in pressure, precipitation and temperature strongly suggest that the event’s severity is largely consistent with human-driven climate change,’ Faranda, Alberti and Mengaldo explained.

Projections from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) showed that tropical cyclones in the western North Pacific may become more intense even if they occur less frequently.

The panel also anticipates heavier rainfall and higher storm surges in the region, posing increasing threats to countries like the Philippines.

Between September 21 and 23, 2025, Super Typhoon Nando rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm before striking northern Luzon and eastern Taiwan with torrential rain, floods and landslides.

Philippine authorities reported at least 11 deaths as floodwaters and slope failures hit several provinces.

Krelz Gecosala and Kresthan Belacas stole the spotlight in the boys’ division of the Gov. Edwin Jubahib National Juniors Tennis Championships held over the weekend at the DavNor Sports Complex and Tagum City courts in Davao del Norte.

Gecosala, seeded fifth, stunned the field in the boys’ 18-and-under category, winning three straight matches before overpowering No. 4 seed Kurt Alcantara, 6-1, 6-3, in the final. The 16-year-old from Midsayap, North Cotabato also dominated the 16-and-under division, dropping just eight games in three matches, capped by a 6-4, 6-1 win over Wallaen Cabigas.

Belacas, from Mlang, Cotabato, excelled in the younger age groups. He edged Tyronne Caro, 7-5, 6-3, to win the 12-and-under title, then claimed the 14-and-under crown after Caro retired in the second set, trailing 3-6, 4-2.

Their twin victories earned them co-MVP honors, joined by Faith Lazaro of Tagum City, who impressed in the girls’ division.

Lazaro ended Ayl Gonzaga’s winning streak in the Palawan Pawnshop junior circuit with a gritty 0-6, 6-4, 6-2 semifinal comeback. She went on to win the 16-and-under title, 6-2, 6-2, over Telko Ello. Though she lost the 18-and-under finals to Sultan Kudarat’s Sanschena Francisco, 6-3, 6-3, her overall performance secured her a share of the MVP award.

Gonzaga bounced back by winning the girls’ 14-and-under title, 6-2, 6-2, over doubles partner Justine Gumbao, repeating her success in Sultan Kudarat.

Maureen Mamaba (Davao de Oro) upset Alexandrea Bendoy, 6-3, 6-3, to win the girls’ 12-and-under title.

Brandon Luchavez, unseeded, captured the 10-and-under unisex crown, beating top seed Storm Tozer, 5-4(3), 4-0.

Gonzaga also bagged two doubles titles. With Gumbao, she routed Sam Rodriguez and Shan Tuyor, 8-1, in the 14-and-under finals.

She then teamed up with Francisco to defeat Ello and Yana Reyes, 8-3, in the 18-and-under finals.

In boys’ doubles, Alcantara and Cabigas won the 18-and-under title, 8-5, over Harinne Antiola and Jaime Gultiano.

Caro and Gecosala took the 14-and-under crown, beating Belacas and Dimzon, 8-3.

The Group 2 tournament, presented by Dunlop and sanctioned by Philta, was supported by Universal Tennis and ICON Golf and Sports.