Aklan Governor Advocates for Food Security at National Agri-Fishery Forum

Aklan Governor Joen Miraflores actively participated in the National Agri-Fishery Investment Forum, where he joined other key leaders in deliberating the future trajectory of agriculture and fisheries in the Philippines. During the event, Governor Miraflores underscored the importance of food security and sustainable agricultural practices for his province. In a significant gesture, he met with Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco ‘Kiko’ Tiu Laurel, Jr. to discuss pressing agricultural issues specific to Aklan. Furthermore, Governor Miraflores formally endorsed the Philippine Agri-Food System Transformation by signing in support of the initiative, signaling his commitment to promoting a resilient and sustainable food system for the people of Aklan. Governor Miraflores stated, \"I am honored to represent Aklan at this forum, where we strategically collaborate to shape a more secure and sustainable agricultural future. Our dedication to enhancing food security remains unwavering.\"

Protesters Decry Corruption Allegations in Iloilo’s Delayed Aganan Flyover Project

ILOILO — Approximately 200 protesters convened at the Aganan Flyover in Pavia on September 18, 2025, expressing strong dissatisfaction over what they described as a symbol of widespread corruption in Iloilo. Led by transport and multi-sectoral organizations, the demonstration called on government officials to provide transparency and accountability surrounding the controversial P560-million project, whose construction has been characterized by persistent delays and complications since its inception in 2020. Elmer Forro, lead convenor of the No to PUV Phaseout Coalition Panay and secretary general of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Panay, delivered an impassioned statement: "Today, we unite not just as transport workers but as citizens of Iloilo who are tired of being silenced by corruption. We are here to reclaim our rights and demand transparency." Forro condemned the flyover as a "monument to wasted public funds," emphasizing that despite significant expenditures, the project has failed to alleviate traffic congestion, continuing to disrupt commuters in the area. He insisted, "If the government is truly serious about ending corruption, those responsible must be held accountable — there must be investigations, arrests, reparations, and imprisonment," highlighting that the project has been stalled since its launch during the Duterte administration and has lingered unresolved under the current administration. The protest coincided with a nationwide three-day transport strike organized by the Piston and Manibela groups, intensifying demands for ethical governance and open government. Forro also announced plans for a larger protest march scheduled for September 21, stretching from Jaro Plaza to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. Rev. Msgr. Marco Sulayao, chairperson of PCPR Panay-Guimaras, echoed these criticisms, labeling the project a "scam." "A substantial sum of money has been allocated to this flyover, yet it continues to cause difficulty not only for Pavia residents but for the entire Iloilo community," Sulayao stated. He urged local residents to remain vigilant, saying, "We must not normalize corruption or theft of our nation. This is a matter of concern because our children’s future is at stake." Construction of the Aganan Flyover commenced in July 2020 with an initial completion target of 24 months. However, work was suspended in 2022 due to structural degradation issues. Recently, construction activities resumed, including jet grouting operations. The protesters pledged to persist in their campaign for transparency and responsibility, asserting that Iloilo’s struggle against corruption is far from over.

Federal Reserve Rate Cut Opens Space for BSP Policy Easing Amid Inflation Vigilance

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) gains increased leeway to pursue further monetary easing following the US Federal Reserve’s recent 25 basis point rate cut, its first since December. However, BSP officials emphasize a cautious approach due to persistent inflation concerns. "The Fed decision is just one factor influencing BSP's policy direction," said Metrobank Chief Economist Nicholas Antonio T. Mapa. "This move provides the BSP more room to reduce rates if economic growth requires additional support." Speaking at the Philippine Economic Briefing in Cebu, BSP Deputy Governor Zeno R. Abenoja highlighted the bank's balanced stance toward inflation and growth. He shared, "We anticipate inflation averaging below the target range of 2%-4% this year, at approximately 1.7%. For 2026 and 2027, inflation is projected to return to the midpoint, around 3.3%-3.4%. This signals we are approaching the 'sweet spot' where interest rates effectively support growth while containing inflation." Abenoja emphasized that future policy moves will depend on inflation trends, economic growth data, and inflation expectations. "We will proceed cautiously, evaluating each policy meeting individually." Since initiating its rate cut cycle in August 2024, the BSP has lowered its benchmark rate by a total of 150 basis points, most recently cutting 25 basis points last month to 5%. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. indicated that one more cut this year remains possible but signaled this may conclude the current easing phase. Remolona also noted a greater risk from inflationary pressures compared to output risks, despite expectations for manageable price levels. The Monetary Board’s upcoming meetings are scheduled for October 9 and December 11. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve’s policy rate currently stands between 4% and 4.25%, following Wednesday’s cut, marking a cumulative reduction of 125 basis points since September 2024. Fed Chair Jerome H. Powell acknowledged the complexity facing policymakers, stating that inflation risks are skewed upwards, while employment risks tilt downward. Despite the rate cut, Powell’s remarks tempered market enthusiasm. Recent labor market data revealed rising unemployment and slower payroll growth, reinforcing expectations for continued easing. The Fed’s updated economic projections foresee additional rate reductions totaling approximately 50 basis points by year-end, with inflation projected at 3%—still above the 2% target—and GDP growth slightly upward at 1.6%. On the domestic front, Chief Economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Michael L. Ricafort remarked that the BSP may mirror the Fed’s cuts to maintain a favorable interest rate gap, provided economic and inflation data remain supportive. The current rate differential between the Fed and BSP stands at 75 basis points. Governor Remolona downplayed concerns about the differential's impact on the peso, citing the local currency's relative strength against the dollar despite a sub-100 basis point margin. Metrobank’s Mapa noted that a wider interest rate spread could lure foreign investments, bolstering the peso and limiting imported inflation. However, Union Bank Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion cautioned against overly aggressive BSP easing, which could weaken the peso and heighten import costs, pushing up inflation. Asuncion also pointed out risks from supply shocks due to typhoons, rising rice tariffs, and volatile energy prices, underscoring the need for measured policy moves. Geopolitical tensions and US trade uncertainties were cited as additional factors that could disrupt capital flows and influence BSP policy choices. Philippine National Bank economist Alvin Joseph A. Arogo echoed the view that BSP monetary decisions will prioritize domestic economic indicators over strictly aligning with the Fed. The peso closed at P57.06 per dollar on Thursday, slightly weaker by 17 centavos compared to Wednesday’s close. China Bank Capital Corp. Managing Director Juan Paolo E. Colet observed that a growing policy rate gap may strengthen the peso and provide the BSP room to further cut rates while maintaining currency stability. He also suggested that prospects of additional rate easing by both central banks could positively impact domestic bond yields and stock market performance. The Philippine Stock Exchange index rose by 22.96 points, or 0.37%, closing at 6,233.62 on Thursday. A bond trader noted expectations of a downward bias for yields with limited upward corrections as investors seek to secure returns amid uncertainty. Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan remarked that the Fed’s decision was largely anticipated and already factored into market prices. He highlighted that future developments in inflation and employment data would likely influence the timing of subsequent policy adjustments by both the Fed and BSP. This evolving monetary landscape underscores the BSP’s commitment to careful, data-driven policy calibration to balance economic growth and inflation control.

Karen Davila Challenges House Deputy Speaker Over Budget Anomalies Linked to Former Speaker Romualdez

In a September 17 interview on ANC Headstart, broadcast journalist Karen Davila pressed House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno over accusations of substantial budget insertions and corruption involving former Speaker Martin Romualdez. Davila specifically questioned Puno about allegations linking Rep. Zaldy Co of the Ako Bicol party-list to irregular funding and claims that some lawmakers received kickbacks from flood-control projects. When Puno attempted to defend Romualdez, Davila interjected, emphasizing the need for accountability from House leaders. She stated, \"Well, congressman, I mean, I understand you work with him but, I think we need to hold our leaders accountable. He is a speaker of the House, the budget emanates from the House.\" She further highlighted reports of Romualdez’s alleged ostentatious lifestyle, including ownership of multiple houses and private planes. \"It’s appalling to the Filipino people to defend the speaker as if he were a victim. In the end, he would not even explain the corruption in the budget that he allowed. The House passed it, congressman,\" Davila added. Davila underscored her point by comparing the current situation to past administrations, noting that public anger has now reached unprecedented levels due to these alleged corrupt acts. \"This is not the time of the wealth you and I have seen in past administrations. Galit na tayo noon kay GMA, kay Erap, etcetera. This is a whole other level of alleged corruption,\" she said. She also challenged the notion that Romualdez’s decision to step aside suffices as accountability, urging for greater transparency including filing statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN). \"I mean, it’s very difficult to defend Martin who was in power, unless he submits his SALN, he explains. Stepping aside – I don’t think it’s enough for Filipino people. It’s not personal to me, but as a leader, this is inexcusable.\" The interview segment rapidly went viral, drawing praise from viewers and commentators who applauded Davila’s direct approach in demanding responsibility from lawmakers suspected of mismanaging public funds. One commentator wrote, \"Thank you, Karen Davila, for speaking on behalf of many Filipinos.\" Another social media user remarked, \"We need more voices like yours, unafraid to stand for truth and hold leaders accountable.\" Filipino content creator KC Matta echoed the sentiment, expressing disbelief at Puno’s defense of Romualdez and emphasizing that the public are the true victims of such corruption. \"Stop spinning this like Romualdez is the hero. He’s not doing us a favor; he’s simply doing what he should have done long ago,\" Matta said, calling for nationwide demand for transparency and justice. Davila’s forthright interview style, though rare among journalists, resonated deeply with those pushing for greater integrity in government. This aligns her with other media figures known for holding public officials accountable in real-time. Meanwhile, Puno stated that Romualdez resigned \"because he wants to address and face all of this,\" referring to the controversies surrounding the 2025 national budget. The public backlash highlights growing frustration over perceived misuse of public funds and underscores the demand for tangible accountability from elected officials.

Tropical Depression Nando Enters Philippine Waters Amid Mirasol's Exit, PAGASA Issues Warnings

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that Tropical Depression Mirasol departed from the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) yesterday morning. Shortly after, a new tropical depression named "Nando" entered Philippine waters, raising concerns for potential severe weather. Nando was recorded entering the PAR at 8 p.m. on Wednesday. By 4 p.m. the following day, it was situated approximately 1,260 kilometers east of Central Luzon, traveling northwest at 15 kilometers per hour. The system exhibited maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center, with gusts reaching up to 70 kph. According to PAGASA's 5 p.m. advisory, "The center of Nando may pass close to or make landfall over the Babuyan Islands." The agency also indicated that Nando is expected to intensify as it moves through the Philippine Sea, with forecasts predicting its development into a tropical storm and then a severe tropical storm later today, followed by typhoon strength on Saturday. PAGASA further warned that "the possibility of Nando strengthening into a super typhoon while traversing extreme Northern Luzon cannot be ruled out." They also cautioned residents about the potential onset of heavy rains by Sunday or Monday. Meanwhile, Mirasol exited the PAR around 6 a.m. yesterday. By mid-afternoon, it was located approximately 465 kilometers west-northwest of Calayan, Cagayan, sustaining winds of 65 kph with gusts up to 80 kph. The weather agency noted that Mirasol is now less likely to trigger significant heavy rainfall over northern Luzon provinces including Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga, Apayao, Abra, Ilocos Norte, and Ilocos Sur. However, scattered showers and thunderstorms remain expected in the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Zambales, and Bataan through today. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported that around 17,200 families across 70 barangays in five regions have been affected by Mirasol. These regions include Ilocos (Region I), Cagayan Valley (Region II), Central Luzon (Region III), Bicol (Region V), and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Food assistance has been distributed to those impacted. Authorities continue to monitor the evolving weather situation as residents brace for possible heavy rains and strong winds associated with Nando's approach.

OPC Publishes Comprehensive Sustainability Report Highlighting Environmental and Social Commitments

Operadora Portuaria Centroamericana (OPC), the Honduran division of International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), has released its latest sustainability report showcasing its social, environmental, and economic impact throughout Honduras and the broader Central American region. The report, covering the period from 2022 to 2024, was developed following the globally recognized Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework. ICTSI described the publication as a "benchmark for port operations within Honduras and the CA-4 area," reinforcing OPC's dedication to transparency and responsibility toward investors, international clients, and multilateral organizations. Evelyn Leiva, OPC's Chief Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Officer, highlighted the company’s investment in renewable energy, noting that OPC installed 10,200 square meters of solar panels. This initiative generates 1.6 MWp of clean energy, substantially lowering the company’s carbon emissions and supporting its commitment to sustainable operations. The report also details OPC’s achievement of several key certifications, including ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety), and BASC standards, alongside compliance with International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) and International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Codes. Emphasizing its corporate culture, the report underscores OPC’s focus on respect, safety, diversity, and the well-being of its workforce. ICTSI reinforced that the sustainability report aligns OPC’s activities with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showcasing its ongoing commitment to operational excellence, value creation, and fostering economic, social, and environmental advancement throughout Honduras and Central America.

Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Strikes Off Luna, La Union Early Friday

Early Friday morning, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake of tectonic origin struck the waters located 52 kilometers west of Luna, La Union, at 3:52 a.m., as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The seismic event was recorded at a depth of 20 kilometers. The quake's impact was felt in various areas with reported intensities as follows: - Intensity V in Luna and Bacnotan, La Union - Intensity IV in Balaoan (La Union); Sablan, Itogon, La Trinidad, Tublay, Atok, and Kapangan (Benguet); City of Baguio; Tadian and Sagada (Mountain Province); and Villasis (Pangasinan) - Intensity III in Tuba, Mankayan, Bakun, Buguias, and Kibungan (Benguet); Barlig, Bauko, Bontoc, Besao, Sadanga, and Sabangan (Mountain Province); and Lagawe, Banaue, Aguinaldo, Tinoc, Asipulo, Kiangan, and Lamut (Ifugao) PHIVOLCS noted that while no damages are anticipated from this earthquake, residents should remain cautious of potential aftershocks in the affected regions.

SRA and HPCo Collaborate on Organic Pest Management to Protect Negros Sugarcane Farms

The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has strengthened its partnership with Hawaiian-Philippine Co. (HPCo) to address the Red Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI) infestation in Negros Occidental using an organic and environmentally friendly pest management strategy. On September 6, SRA Administrator and CEO Pablo Luis Azcona visited HPCo’s site in Silay City to endorse the initiative, which emphasizes biological control tactics designed to reduce RSSI populations while preserving beneficial insects critical to the ecological health of sugarcane plantations. The RSSI is known to severely damage sugarcane crops across Negros Occidental. “This collaboration goes beyond tackling the immediate pest challenge; it establishes sustainable agricultural practices that will support future generations of sugarcane farmers in Negros and beyond,” Azcona remarked. Since June, HPCo’s technical team has been developing an organic treatment protocol tailored to varying levels of RSSI infestation, aligning with SRA’s sustainability goals. The project gained momentum after a visit from Israeli agricultural experts Yael Skutelsky and Nina Lehmann between August 10 and 16. Their expertise in advanced biological pest control helped refine the treatment procedures and implement a systematic approach involving thorough assessment, targeted spraying, and continuous monitoring. Rodeo Suating, HPCo co-general manager and regulatory compliance officer, explained that the protocol aims to interrupt pest development and reproduction without harming beneficial insect populations. The objective is to reduce the RSSI to a manageable level that enables natural predators to restore ecological balance. The organic treatment is applied in three stages: initial evaluation followed by focused spraying, a secondary assessment with a potential additional application, and a final monitoring phase to ensure the recovery of beneficial insects. Trial runs in HPCo-managed fields have now expanded to adjacent plantations. Unlike chemical pesticides, which also eradicate helpful insect species, HPCo’s organic method offers a more sustainable and cost-effective solution. Suating emphasized, “Our goal is to protect the crops and the environment simultaneously. We want all farmers within our district to adopt this method and unite against the RSSI threat.” HPCo Chairman Curran reaffirmed their commitment to expand the program across their mill district in collaboration with local government units and planters’ associations. The initial distribution of the organic treatment will be provided free of charge to affected farms in Silay City and EB Magalona. Farmers are responsible for carrying out the field assessments, spraying operations, and field sanitation. Azcona noted that RSSI infestations typically occur along field edges and roadways, causing symptoms such as leaf yellowing, stunted growth, and shortened internodes. These symptoms typically manifest within two to three months after planting, peaking between the fourth and tenth month of cane growth. He highlighted that the SRA-HPCo partnership symbolizes a collective commitment to sustainable agriculture and long-term productivity for Negros sugarcane farmers. By promoting biological pest control, this initiative not only confronts the immediate RSSI problem but also contributes to building a more resilient and environmentally conscious sugarcane industry.

Justice Department Anticipates More Witnesses in Flood Control Corruption Probe

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla disclosed on Friday that two to three additional witnesses are likely to present themselves next week to provide further information regarding the investigation into contentious flood control projects. He stated, \"Meron nang nagpaparamdam na iba pa. And we will get them one by one, talk to us. We have two to three more next week.\" According to officials, one possible witness affiliated with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has already approached the Department of Justice (DOJ) and expressed willingness to testify in the government’s ongoing probe. Justice authorities have shown keen interest in the information this individual may provide. This development comes amid the government’s intensified efforts to tackle corruption within public works contracts. On the same day, contractors Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya and his wife Sarah arrived separately at the DOJ to apply for protection under the Witness Protection Program (WPP). However, Justice Secretary Remulla emphasized that the couple must first surrender any unlawfully obtained funds before discussions regarding immunity can proceed. Curlee Discaya arrived at the DOJ shortly after 8:00 a.m., followed by his wife Sarah at around 10:30 a.m. Justice Assistant Secretary and DOJ spokesperson Atty. Mico Clavano explained that the department will initially verify the \"truthfulness, genuineness, authenticity, and completeness\" of the affidavits submitted by the Discayas. Subsequently, the DOJ will evaluate the potential threats they might face from parties implicated in the case. These actions underscore the department's commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation of corruption allegations linked to flood control infrastructure projects.

Optus Network Failure Linked to Three Fatalities Amid Emergency Call Disruption

Optus, Australia’s second-largest telecommunications company, confirmed that a recent technical malfunction during a network upgrade disrupted emergency call services, leading to the deaths of three individuals. CEO Stephen Rue disclosed that the incident occurred on Thursday, potentially affecting around 600 customers across South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. During a press briefing on Friday, Rue stated, "Welfare checks have since identified three fatalities in households where emergency triple zero (\"000\") calls were attempted. Our inquiries are ongoing." He expressed deep remorse: "I wish to extend my sincere apologies to all customers who were unable to connect with emergency services when it was critical. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives. This is wholly unacceptable, and we acknowledge that we have failed them." Rue did not specify the exact duration of the failure, noting that this detail is still under investigation. The fault has now been rectified, with Optus initiating a comprehensive probe into the circumstances. The company committed to publicly releasing the investigation's findings once complete. This event follows a history of significant operational challenges for Optus, including a $12 million fine imposed less than a year ago for a nationwide emergency call outage in 2023. Previously, in 2022, the firm faced a major cyberattack that compromised data belonging to approximately 9.5 million Australians. Another network outage earlier this year contributed to the departure of former CEO Kelly Bayer Rosmarin. Stephen Rue assumed leadership of Optus in November 2024.