A news and information service for Filipino seafarers sponsored by the All Japan Seamen's Union, International Mariners Management Association of Japan and Philippine-Japan Manning Consultative Council, Inc.
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December 14, 2024
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HEADLINES
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Retailers Expect Declining Import Cargo Volume to Continue in 2026
Methanol and shore power recipe to unlock Newcastle – Amsterdam green shipping corridor
HIV cases in Philippines continue to rise despite global decline
Gov’t begins inspecting airports, ports ahead of Christmas, New Year exodus
Philippines, South Korea trade to reach $24 billion by 2030
Cebu Pacific to fly directly to Riyadh starting March
MMDA urges public to use mass transport as traffic jams expected during Christmas season
Matteo Guidicelli reflects on his ‘greatest missions’ yet
‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ season 2 introduces Miya Cech as Toph
Jam Villanueva confirms 2026 will be her final year with Ben&Ben
SBP welcomes new FIBA rule which raises non-restricted age to 18
Eala secures Australian Open main draw spot
FULL NEWSPAPER
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Time magazine names 'Architects of AI' as Person of the Year
NEW YORK, December 14 ------ Time magazine named the "Architects of AI" as its Person of the Year, highlighting the tech titans whose work on the cutting-edge technology is transforming humanity.
Nvidia's Jensen Huang, OpenAi's Sam Altman and xAI's Elon Musk are among the entrepreneurs who have "grabbed the wheel of history, developing technology and making decisions that are reshaping the information landscape, the climate, and our livelihoods," the magazine said.
"They reoriented government policy, altered geopolitical rivalries, and brought robots into homes. AI emerged as arguably the most consequential tool in great-power competition since the advent of nuclear weapons."
Source: gmanetwork.com
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SAN FRANCISCO, California, December 14 ------ Instagram unveiled a new artificial intelligence-powered feature that lets users view and adjust the algorithm shaping their Reels feed, calling it a pioneering move toward greater user control.
The Meta-owned app is introducing “Your Algorithm,” accessible through an icon in the upper right corner of Reels — a user’s video feed — which displays the topics Instagram believes users are interested in based on their viewing history.
In a blog post, Meta said users could now directly tell the platform which subjects they wanted to see more or less of, with recommendations adjusting accordingly in real time. Social media platforms have faced mounting pressure from regulators and users alike to provide greater transparency around algorithmic content curation, which critics say can create echo chambers or promote harmful content.
But companies also see algorithms as their platform’s “secret sauce” for engaging users and have often resisted greater transparency. “Instagram has always been a place to dive deep into your interests and connect with friends,” the company said in its blog. “As your interests evolve over time, we want to give you more meaningful ways to control what you see.”
The feature shows users a summary of their top interests and allows them to type in specific topics to fine-tune their feed. Instagram said it was “leading the way” in offering such transparency and control, with plans to expand the feature beyond Reels to Explore and other sections of the app. The tool launched on Wednesday in the United States and will roll out globally in English “soon,” the company said.
The move came as Australia, in a world-first, banned people 16 years old and younger from a raft of popular social media apps, including Instagram. The government said it aimed to “take back control” from tech giants and protect children from “predatory algorithms.”
Source: manilatimes.net
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MARITIME NEWS
Retailers Expect Declining Import Cargo Volume to Continue in 2026
December 14 ------ The National Retail Federation issued its forecast for imports through the first quarter of 2026, saying that it expects volumes will continue the year-over-year declines seen in five of the past 11 months. The retail trade association, while expecting record sales during the holiday season, projects that import volumes will continue the overall declines well into 2026 due to uncertainty over tariffs and trade policies.
“Stores are stocked up and ready for a record holiday season, but there is still a great deal of uncertainty about what will happen in 2026 with trade policy,” said NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold.
The group moderated its forecast for the declines in the fourth quarter of 2025, pointing to the administration’s move to reduce tariffs on some food products and the agreement with China. They believe retailers rushed imports earlier in the year in anticipation of the tariffs and which contributed to eh 3.7 percent volume increase in the first half of 2025. Similarly, the recent moves by the administration gave retailers a window to get more merchandise into their warehouses. With retailers well stocked, the NRF is forecasting record holiday sales. They believe total sales will be over $1 trillion for the first time, up between 3.7 and 4.2 percent over 2024.
The latest forecast for the fourth quarter, 5.86 million TEU, is up nearly 12 percent from the group’s lowest forecast, which came during the summer with pending massive tariff rates. Even still, the forecast is 10 percent below 2024, although the group notes imports were accelerated a year ago due to the pending East Coast longshore strike. “The effect of rising tariffs on global trade is unlikely to end soon, said Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett. “We are seeing the results of the tariffs in weakening cargo demand going forward from the fourth quarter of this year and likely into the first half of next year.”
The Global Port Tracker projects December at 1.88 million TEU, which the NRF notes would be the slowest month of the year. It would be down 12 percent versus 2024’s December monthly volume. December 2025 would also be the slowest month since 1.83 million TEU in June 2023. While the first half of 2025 was up over 2024, the NRF forecasts the second half will be off 5.7 percent. The full year is forecast at 25.2 million TEU, down 1.4 percent from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.
While they expect cargo volume to see its first month-over-month increase in six months in January, which is forecast at 2 million TEU, it would still be down 10.3 percent year over year. February is forecast at 1.86 million TEU, down 8.5 percent year over year; March at 1.79 million TEU, down 16.8 percent; and April at 1.97, down 10.9 percent. The first quarter of 2026 is forecasted to be off by more than 12 percent versus 2025.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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NYK and Mitsui OSK to Settle Long-Running UK Pricing Fixing Allegations
December 14 ------ Two of Japan’s leading shipping companies and operators of car carriers have agreed to settle a long-running case in the UK that alleged the major shipping companies worked as a cartel to fix prices and collude in vehicle shipment contracts. The UK case is similar to other complaints brought in jurisdictions around the globe, which all found the car carriers had colluded to set global pricing.
Most of the cases had been brought by regulators, including the European Union, which in 2018 fined the shipping companies €395 million for price fixing and bid rigging for their RoRo operations. The UK case, however, was brought as a class action on behalf of the car buyers. Lead attorney and class representative Mark McLaren estimated in 2000, when the case began, that it was valued at £150 million.
McLaren hailed the proposed settlement with NYK and MOL, saying the system had given both “consumers and businesses an effective and fair route to recover monies owed as a result of cartel behavior that they could never pursue on their own.”
All told, it is estimated that over a decade between October 2006 and September 2015, 17 million new vehicles were involved. All the major car and truck brands, including Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Peugeot, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Toyota, Citroen, and Renault, were reported to have been subjected to the higher shipping prices.
Mitsui OSK and NYK had gone to trial in January 2025, with the decision still pending from the nine-week trial. McLaren, who was assisted by Scott + Scott UK LLP, reported today, December 11, that the car companies, however, have agreed to a settlement. It reported that NYK and MOL would pay a total of £54 million ($72.3 million) to settle the charges that the companies had coordinated rates, allocated tenders, and managed capacity in the industry. The companies were also charged with exchanging commercially sensitive information to maintain or increase the price of intercontinental shipping of new vehicles. “This settlement marks a significant milestone for UK consumers and businesses that paid higher shipping fees for new purchased or leased vehicles as a result of the cartel as it concludes the litigation and guarantees them significant compensation,” said Cian Mansfield, Managing Partner of Scott+Scott UK. “This case is groundbreaking as it is the first time damages will be distributed to UK businesses under the opt-out regime. We are delighted that five years of hard work on behalf of the class has paid off.”
The UK case was brought against MOL and NYK as well as “K” Line (Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha), WWL/EUKOR (Wallenius Wilhelmsen Group), and CSAV (Compañía Sud Americana de Vapores). CSAL settled the charges in December 2023, agreeing to pay £1.5 million, and the other two agreed to settle in June 2024, with “K” Line paying £24.5 million and WWL/EUKOR paying £13.25 million.
The UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal is set to convene on January 15, 2026, to consider and approve the settlement with MOL and NYK. McLaren highlights that when the case is completed, it will have achieved a total settlement of £92.75 million ($124 million) for the consumers and businesses impacted by the price fixing.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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​Methanol and shore power recipe to unlock Newcastle – Amsterdam green shipping corridor
December 14 ------ Given the growing zest for specific routes where vessels employ low-emission propulsion, a new study has assessed the technical and commercial feasibility of introducing a green shipping corridor between Newcastle and Amsterdam. Based on the findings, the adoption of methanol and onshore power supply as alternative future fuels for vessels operating between the Port of Tyne – Port of IJmuiden shipping route could pave the way for huge cuts in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The study, led by Ricardo, an environmental, energy, and engineering consultancy, said to be at the forefront of maritime decarbonization, found major reductions in emissions with the adoption of methanol, reducing GHG by 70%, and onshore power supply, slashing emissions by an additional 10-15%. It is believed that battery storage could be adopted to support energy demand.
Matt Moss, Ricardo Maritime Sustainable Transport Consultant, highlighted: “Green shipping corridors represent a viable alternative to traditional carbon-heavy fuels, in an industry that is considered hard to decarbonize. The Port of Tyne – Port of IJmuiden route is not only a suitable candidate for the world’s first green shipping corridor but will also inform similar projects throughout Europe.”
The study also showed significant financial savings, primarily through avoiding regulatory penalties, which would help to offset any needed investment in new technology. A new report has found that adopting methanol as the primary fuel for voyages between the Port of Tyne, Newcastle, and Port of IJmuiden, Amsterdam could avoid up to £420 million in future regulatory costs and deliver an 80% reduction in GHG emissions.
Tjeerd van der Voorn, Zeehaven Ijmuiden N.V. – Port of Ijmuiden’s CEO, underscored: “Transforming the Tyne–IJmuiden route into one of the world’s first green shipping corridors fits seamlessly with our ambition to develop Energy Port IJmuiden. “This project has strengthened collaboration across ports, operators, engineers and public bodies, and the support of Innovate UK and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency has been instrumental. With methanol-powered vessels and onshore power, we are taking a decisive step toward a cleaner, future-ready North Sea connection.”
The report’s findings were validated by the primary ferry operator between the ports, DFDS’ own internal analysis, which supported the economic feasibility of transitioning the Tyne- IJmuiden route to alternative fuels. The ferry operator plans to invest in alternative fuel-powered vessels for the corridor.
Matt Beeton, Port of Tyne’s CEO, who welcomed the study’s results as another important step toward establishing a North Sea green shipping corridor, underlined: “We have a vision to achieve a net zero port operation, supported by an e-fuels hub, alongside a thriving ferry route to the continent for both passengers and freight. “The transition to a cleaner future will only happen through genuine collaboration right across the maritime value chain. This report’s findings give us confidence that green shipping is within reach and that the North East can be at the forefront of the change.”
The Port of Tyne – Port of IJmuiden study was part-funded by the UK government’s maritime decarbonization project program, UK SHORE, which aims to reduce emissions, fuel innovation, and create new jobs in the industry. The UK government announced the biggest government investment ever in the UK commercial maritime sector in March 2022, allocating £206 million to UK SHORE within the Department for Transport focused on decarbonizing the maritime sector.
As a result, this program is delivering a suite of interventions throughout 2022-2025 aimed at accelerating the design, manufacture, and operation of UK-made clean maritime technologies and unlocking an industry-led transition to net zero.
The UK SHORE program includes the flagship multi-year ‘Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC),’ which provides match-funding to help bring pre-commercial technologies closer to market readiness.
With this in mind, CMDC5: IGCF allocated £1.5 million for feasibility studies that examine green corridor routes between the UK and international partner countries between 2024 and 2025. This follows the successful first four rounds of the CMDC, which allocated over £128 million to 138 projects.
Teun-Wim Leene, DFDS Amsterdam-Newcastle Route Manager, noted: “Our ambition is to decarbonize maritime transport along the Amsterdam–Newcastle corridor. This includes investing in new vessels and collaborating with partners to accelerate infrastructure development and the production of low-emission fuels which is crucial for a successful transition.”
Source: offshore-energy.biz
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PHILIPPINE NEWS
AFP: 20 Chinese coast guard, naval ships monitored in West Philippine Sea in first week of December
MANILA, December 14 ------ Twenty ships of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and China Coast Guard (CCG) were monitored in features in the West Philippine Sea in the first week of December, the Philippine Navy said.
In a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said two PLA Navy warships and five CCG ships were seen in Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal. Additional sightings included one PLA Navy vessel and six CCG ships in Ayungin Shoal, and one PLA Navy warship and two CCG vessels in Escoda Shoal or Sabina Shoal.
The official noted that two PLA Navy warships and one CCG ship were monitored in the vicinity of Pag-asa Island. Trinidad said the presence of 101 Chinese maritime militia vessels spotted during a recent Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) maritime domain awareness (MDA) flight falls within the usual numbers seen in the West Philippine Sea.
According to Trinidad, about 300 to 350 Chinese maritime militia vessels are usually monitored in the West Philippine Sea at any given time. “The 101 is a normal number. It is not unusual to have this number in our features in the West Philippine Sea,” the official told reporters. “The Chinese maritime militia are double-hatted ships—sometimes they are fisherfolk, at times they are part of the Chinese military as their force multipliers,” he added.
The Philippine Navy also noted that the aggressive and coercive behavior of Chinese vessels have remained steady throughout the year. “The aggressive and coercive actions are fairly constant. There are ups and downs. We haven’t really plotted this on a year-to-year basis, but so long as their [Chinese vessels’] illegal presence will remain, the possibility for escalation and aggressive actions will always remain,” Trinidad said. He added that China’s behavior is not limited to encounters with Philippine forces. “They are being conducted not only against the AFP, but even against the militaries of Japan, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and other like-minded countries,” the official said.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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HIV cases in Philippines continue to rise despite global decline
MANILA, December 14 ------ While annual new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections and AIDS-related deaths continue to decline globally and in Asia and the Pacific, the cases in the Philippines steadily rise.
During hearing of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, the Department of Health (DOH) reported that between 2010 and 2024, the percent change in new HIV infections in the country was at 555 percent, much higher compared to the percent change globally of -40 percent, and of Asia and the Pacific at -17 percent. Meanwhile, the percent change in AIDS-related deaths between 2010 and 2024 in the Philippines was 667 percent, while the percent change globally was -54 percent, and that of Asia and the Pacific was -53 percent.
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. The immune system of people living with AIDS becomes very weak, and various illnesses could emerge. “This means that we have an ongoing local concentrated epidemic that requires sustained and intensified interventions,” said Noel Palaypayon of the DOH Epidemiology Bureau. Given the current pace of infection, Palaypayon said the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) could reach 457,600 by 2030. The current number of PLHIV is 252,800.
He also said that about 90 percent of new HIV infections occur among men having sex with men. DOH added that 58 percent of estimated PLHIV are from Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and Central Luzon. From 21 newly diagnosed cases per day in 2015, the number has risen to 56 per day in October 2025. Annual deaths among PLHIV have exceeded 900 since 2022. “Half of all confirmed HIV cases were among individuals aged 25 to 34 years old, while 30 percent fall within 15 to 24 age group. In fact, nearly 80 percent of cases are among those under 35 years old clearly indicating that HIV continues to disproportionately affect younger populations,” Palaypayon said.
Although HIV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, DOH emphasized that focus should also be put on protecting babies born to women with HIV. “Anti-retroviral therapy coverage remains insufficient, placing infants at risk of infection,” Palaypayon said. Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros called for a strong policy action to address the increase in HIV infections. “In the recent World AIDS day, we are reminded that the Philippines faces one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the region. From July to September 2025 alone, DOH recorded 5,583 new cases, 30 percentof them under 18,” Hontiveros said. “Nito lamang weekend nabalitaan natin na may isang pitong taong gulang na bata mula sa South Cotabato ang nag-positibo sa HIV. Diumano hindi inborn o mula sa mother-child transmission. And these are young lives facing a lifelong challenge,” she added. “We have the tools to end AIDS by 2030, but what we need is strong policy action, full implementation of RA 11166 and strategic legislation for a resilient, inclusive, evidence-based response,” Hontiveros said.
Dr. Delia Becina, chief health program officer of the Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC), said that while RA 11166 or the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act allow adolescents aged 15 to below 18 to have HIV testing on their own, it is silent on whether they may give consent to HIV training and other HIV related services. “This creates a serious gap. A young person can learn they are HIV positive yet may be unable to start life-saving treatment without parental involvement,” Becina said.
The PNAC recommended allowing these minors to access anti-retroviral treatment and other HIV services under the supervision of their attending physician. “Clarifying this in legislation or implementing guidelines would ensure continuity of care, prevent harmful delays in treatment, and align our HIV response with child rights principle and clinical best practice,” Becina said.
Martha De La Paz, technical adviser of UNAIDS Philippines, recommended amending RA 11166 or its implementing rules and regulations to give minors access to services without parental consent. DOH HIV Program Manager Dr. Jan Derek Junio said they are at the end phase of analyzing strategic plans in updating the national health sector plan for HIV for 2026 to 2030. The vision is zero new infections, zero deaths, and zero stigma by 2030.
According to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), it is working on expanding its package to cover HIV screening, diagnostics, treatment, and preventive care. Meanwhile, among the proposals of the non-profit organization Pinoy Plus Team is fast-tracking local investment in addressing HIV since the Philippines is highly dependent on external funding, and ensuring that the AIDS medium-term plan is funded and implemented. Other government agencies, such as the Department of Education and the Civil Service Commission, also explained how they are responding to HIV in their own jurisdiction.
Hontiveros welcomed all the input from various stakeholders and urged all government agencies to step up with their HIV services. A technical working group will be convened to identify and prioritize the HIV and AIDS legislative agenda and draft possible amendments to RA 11166.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Pinoys in Japan can now remit money to GCash accounts
MANILA, December 14 ------ Filipinos in Japan can now directly send remittances to their loved ones' GCash accounts.
In a statement, the fintech giant said it has partnered with the operator of the Japanese fund transfer platform PayForex. Under the partnership, GCash has been integrated into PayForex, allowing overseas Pinoys to transfer money to the GCash accounts of their families in the Philippines. This means they will no longer need to go to a remittance center to send money home. This feature also allows Filipinos to cash in to their own GCash wallets using their +81 numbers or Philippine mobile numbers, and pay conveniently in convenience stores.
Many Filipinos in Japan already have their Japanese bank accounts linked to PayForex, the e-wallet platform said. Recently, GCash allowed its users to directly hold US dollars in their e-wallets. In August, GCash made its tap-to-pay feature available internationally. GCash's valuation soared to $5 billion in August last year following fresh investments from Ayala Corporation and Japan’s Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Gov’t begins inspecting airports, ports ahead of Christmas, New Year exodus
MANILA, December 14 ------ The Office for Transportation Security has started conducting inspections and rounds in airports and ports nationwide ahead of the expected exodus of passengers from Metro Manila for the Christmas and New Year holidays, the agency’s chief said. “Nagku-conduct kasi kami ng audit doon sa mga airports natin and sa mga ports at sinisigurado natin na iyong mga equipment ay talagang functioning well sila,” OTS Administrator Gilbert Cruz told state television PTV. “Iyong atin pong mga tao talagang na-inform po sila noong mga latest na mga dapat nilang bantayan, iyong mga alarma po na dapat po nilang tingnan so tuluy-tuloy po iyan both iyong equipment saka iyong mga tao po natin hinahanda natin dahil alam naman po natin na dumadagsa na po iyong dami ng mga tao, iyong mga mananakay natin both sa airports po saka sa ports,” he added.
The OTS is also conducting training programs for the security officials of each passenger terminal to ensure that there are enough personnel to man gateways, Cruz said. “We have to train our counterparts like iyong mga security providers, iyong mga security agencies na kaakibat po natin sa mga pagbabantay at pagbibigay ng seguridad sa mga airports at ports,” he said. “Tina-try na rin po natin iyan para po maging force multiplier po natin sa pagbabantay. Tuluy-tuloy po ang training naming ginagawa both sa mga screening at pati po iyong mga nagha-handle noong mga x-ray machines po natin,” he said.
Meantime, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has deployed 14,000 personnel to transportation hubs as the police continue to monitor a “mixed trend” in the crime situation in Metro Manila, said NCRPO spokesperson PMaj. Hazel Asilo. “Binabantayan po natin sa ngayon ang ilang property crimes partikular ang theft, robbery at physical injuries na karaniwang tumataas tuwing holiday season dahil sa mataas na foot traffic sa malls, terminals at commercial areas,” she said. “Bumaba po yung major crimes tulad ng murder, rape at complex crimes na nagpapakita ng epektibo na preventive at investigative efforts,” she said. “Sa kabuuan po manageable naman ang crime situation. Naka deploy ang ating mga tauhan para masiguro na mabilis ang response at hindi makakalusot ang mga kriminal ngayong kapaskuhan.” she added.
The NCRPO is looking to raise a full alert status on December 16 until the first few weeks of January, she said.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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COA finds 747 'unusable, idle' DPWH projects in 2024
MANILA, Philippines, December 14 ------ The flood control investigations have uncovered hundreds of multi-million-peso substandard and ghost projects. The Commission on Audit's latest report makes the scale even clearer after it flagged 747 "unusable or idle" infrastructure projects worth P6.5 billion in 2024 alone.
Released, the COA report revealed that the Department of Public Works and Highways' oversight lapses led to hundreds of defective projects after they failed to meet contract standards, leaving the public without the promised benefits. Western Visayas suffered the most, with 130 projects worth P3.5 billion riddled with cracks, pavement damage and structural defects, auditors found. These include projects in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Iloilo, Capiz and Antique. The region's defective projects already take up more than half of the flagged cost.
In Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental, 73 DPWH projects were flagged as either substandard or incomplete, even though they were reported finished, with a combined value of P1.5 billion. Other flagged projects showed a range of deficiencies, including overpayment beyond actual work completed, inflated contract costs, structural cracks, pavement and concrete damage, water leaks, incomplete painting, missing structures, non-functional components, potholes, soil erosion and unnecessary items, among others.
Apart from the 747 projects, auditors also discovered 69 infrastructure projects valued at P5.3 billion with problems in implementation. These were projects in the Ilocos Region, particularly Pangasinan, and Mimaropa. The delays and damages were primarily attributed to inclement weather, missing local, environmental and right-of-way permits. The most serious deficiency flagged, however, was how some projects showed no actual work at the site despite contractors claiming advance payments. "The foregoing technical defects and deficiencies may compromise the safety of the public, cause further destruction of the infrastructures and ultimately result in the wastage of government funds and resources if not immediately addressed," the report read, referring to the agency's failure to comply with procurement laws. The concerned DPWH offices in these regions agreed to address the deficiencies and "ensure the timely completion of the projects to prevent them from being unusable or idle."
State auditors urged several DPWH district engineering offices and regional offices nationwide to compel concerned contractors in defective projects to immediately repair, rectify and correct the deficiencies found. If contractors fail to do so, COA said they may be blacklisted from future government bids.
The offices should also submit their justifications and necessary documents to prove the suspected questionable or excessive payments made were actually proper and needed for the project. Most of all, COA said the DPWH should improve its oversight functions by directing implementing offices and inspectorate teams to conduct regular and periodic monitoring of all projects.
The offices ordered to comply include the regional management offices and numerous district engineering offices (DEOs) across the country: five in the Cordillera Administrative Region, one in Ilocos, 11 in Cagayan Valley, one in Central Luzon, seven in Mimaropa, seven in Bicol, two in Eastern Visayas, two in Zamboanga Peninsula, nine in Central Visayas, five in Northern Mindanao, and the two in Caraga. Regional offices also involved include those in Cagayan Valley, Mimaropa, Eastern Visayas and the Caraga Region. Overall, state auditors identified 39 problems with the DPWH's projects and operations in 2024.
Source: philstar.com
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Philippines, South Korea trade to reach $24 billion by 2030
MANILA, Philippines, December 14 ------ Bilateral trade between the Philippines and South Korea is projected to reach $24 billion by 2030, according to a senior officer of the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) secretariat. Arief Bakhtiar presented the outlook on the sidelines of the ASEAN–Korea Forum.
The projection aligns with the broader regional goal under which ASEAN and South Korea aim to expand overall trade to $300 billion by 2030, a target reaffirmed during the forum as both sides vowed to intensify cooperation through the ASEAN–Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). The forum presented Korea’s 2025–2030 engagement strategy and its alignment with ASEAN’s economic integration agenda. Trade expansion, investment promotion, and supply-chain modernization were highlighted as central pillars of regional growth.
The forum was organized by Geopolitics Insight in partnership with the Korea University ASEAN Center, Stratbase Institute, and the UP Korea Research Center. It gathered diplomats, government officials, economists, and business leaders to examine new opportunities that can strengthen ASEAN–Korea economic relations. South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa reaffirmed ASEAN’s significance as Seoul’s third-largest trading partner and a dynamic investment destination.
Lee emphasized Korea’s shift toward “qualitative growth,” including an upgrade of the ASEAN–Korea Free Trade Area, enhanced electronic customs interoperability, and support for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement. Ambassador Elizabeth Buensuceso, for her part, stressed the need for a stable, rules-based regional environment, noting that South Korea “has repeatedly affirmed its respect for ASEAN Centrality” through the Korea–ASEAN Solidarity Initiative (KASI).
She explained that KASI reinforces the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific by advancing cooperation in maritime sectors, sustainable development, connectivity, and trade facilitation. Buensuceso affirmed that the Philippines seeks to steer an “ASEAN that is agile, innovation-driven, and unified in pursuing economic growth,” ensuring that expanded trade benefits industries and local communities alike.
Source: philstar.com
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Cebu Pacific to fly directly to Riyadh starting March
MANILA, December 14 ------ Cebu Pacific is flying directly to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia starting March 2026. In a statement, Cebu Pacific said it is flying to Riyadh starting March 1. Flights from Manila to Riyadh are on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, while Riyadh to Manila flights are on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
The budget carrier also said it is rolling out a seat sale for the flights--passengers can book their trips for as low as P1 one-way base fare from December 9 to 13. They can fly anytime from March 1 to October 28, 2026. Those who book from December 9 to 31 can also choose their own seats and buy meals and more baggage allowance at lower rates.
Cebu Pacific said its Manila-Riyadh route helps Filipinos save up to 57 percent on roundtrip flight fares compared to other travel options. “Our OFWs in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East make tremendous sacrifices to support their families and contribute to the Philippine economy. Launching our Manila–Riyadh service is one way we honor their hard work, making it easier and more affordable for them to fly home,” said Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao.
The airline said its Riyadh route is its fourth long-haul destination, following Dubai in the United Arab Emirates and Sydney and Melbourne in Australia. In August, Cebu Pacific said it was increasing flights in its existing hubs to boost growth. The low-cost airline is also offering a piso sale for its flights this 12.12.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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MMDA urges public to use mass transport as traffic jams expected during Christmas season
December 14 ------ The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) urged commuters to use mass transportation system to decongest roads in Metro Manila of motor vehicles, which is one of the major reasons behind monstrous traffic jams during the Christmas season.
MMDA chairman Don Artes said the volume of motor vehicles on major thoroughfares, particularly EDSA, has already exceeded its capacity and the increase in the volume during Holiday season is causing traffic congestion. In a press briefing, Artes revealed that around 450,000 motor vehicles were recorded along EDSA alone, which he said, is more than the 250,000 capacity.
To manage the high vehicular volume, Artes said the MMDA has implemented adjustments which include coordinating with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to extend operating hours of the MRT and LRT and other public transport systems. “This is aimed at encouraging the public not to use their private vehicles,’ said Artes.
He said this will be complemented with the aggressive clearing operations of Mabuhay Lanes, which are designated alternate routes to help motorists avoid congested main roads like EDSA. Other measures include asking mall operators to refrain from holding mall-wide sale events during peak holiday hours.
Source: mb.com.ph
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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Matteo Guidicelli reflects on his ‘greatest missions’ yet
December 14 ------ Matteo Guidicelli’s passion for serving the country and penchant for military training have been part of his dreams since childhood. As a kid, he would watch “Rambo” movies starring Sylvester Stallone. “It’s every little boy’s dream growing up. So it was my dream also. When it was offered (training), I couldn’t say no, ‘Let’s do it.’ So that’s how it happened,” he told The STAR in an interview during his contract signing with MQuest Ventures, Cignal, and One News.
Matteo is a Philippine Army reservist who holds the rank of second lieutenant. He also became the first civilian and celebrity to complete the grueling Scout Ranger orientation course. At the recent 75th founding anniversary of the Philippine Scout Rangers in Bulacan, he posted photos on social media taken on-site with his “brothers.” “To all the Musang brothers, maraming salamat for your selfless sacrifice, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to fight for and defend our country,” he captioned his post, adding how honored, thankful, and humbled he is to be part of the brotherhood and to be recognized as a Ranger.
Matteo recalled that after completing Ranger School, he joined the Airborne School and the Intel School, and later, the training for the Presidential Security Group, which is now known as the Presidential Security Command. “All these military trainings were incredible for me because not only did I learn about myself but also about our soldiers, what they went through, why they do what they do, and their selfless service for our country,” he mused.
Since joining the Army Reserve Force six years ago, it has been Matteo’s mission to tell Filipino stories that haven’t been told yet or are rarely documented. Anchored on that, Matteo’s upcoming series of documentary films, which will air on the One News channel next year, will feature stories of Filipino soldiers, as well as Filipino food, culture, traditions — everything and anything Filipino.
The Kapatid actor-host and athlete was joined by MediaQuest Holdings chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, president and chief executive officer Jane Basas, first vice president for Special Projects Sienna Olaso, Viva executives Vicente del Rosario Jr., Valerie del Rosario, and Vincent del Rosario, NEWS5 head Patrick Paez, and other key media executives at the contract-signing event. Matteo shared that his wife, Sarah Geronimo, was just as thrilled about this latest milestone in his career. “We support each other not just on cam but also behind the camera, as we created our own production studio and music label so Sarah can own her music, all her content, etc. So that’s the goal,” beamed Matteo.
In his interest in business, Matteo credited his father as his guiding force and mentor. “My father came to the Philippines in the ‘80s and met my mom, and I was born, my sister, and my brother,” he recalled. “And I think up to today, my dad is such a mentor to me in leading by example. He leads a company with many people, so I think I always looked up to him on how I’d like to lead my company, kumbaga. “I think every day you learn, and you always try to educate yourself. That’s why school continues — school of life or additional schooling. That’s very important.”
He is still open to acting, given the chance. “If there’s something nice that strikes the right note, why not? Our industry is full of promises. So you only believe, or you step forward once it’s actually there. That’s the challenge of show business.” This paper asked him about the greatest mission he has accomplished and what his next mission would be, to which he replied, “My greatest mission is being a husband. My second greatest mission is trying to be a father. God willing.”
Source: philstar.com
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‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ season 2 introduces Miya Cech as Toph
December 14 ------ The feisty, blind earthbender Toph Beifong — played by Miya Cech — has been introduced in the first look for “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” which continues Aang discovering his abilities as the chosen one.
Glimpses of the live-action adaptation’s second installment of the hit Nickelodeon series were posted on its social media platforms on Wednesday, Dec. 10, with the poster showing Aang (Gordon Cormier), Toph (Miya Cech), Katara (Kiawentiio), and Sokka (Ian Ousley) staring at the horizon.
One of the first look images showed Toph displaying her earthbending abilities and interacting with Aang, Katara, and Sokka. Another post unveiled Aang coming into his own as the Avatar.
The live-action series also teased Aang, Katara, and Sokka entering the Earth Kingdom — along with Prince Zuko (Dallas Liu) mastering his abilities with the help of his Uncle Iroh (Paul Sun-Hyung Lee) in a quest to capture the Avatar for good — where they were introduced to Toph, who expertly used her earthbending skills to crush several boulders.
Joining the cast are Daniel Dae Kim, Elizabeth Yu, Thalia Tran, Chin Han, Crystal Yu, Dolly de Leon, Lily Gao, Madison Hu, and Dichen Lachman. Based on the 2007 animated series, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” tells the story of Aang (Cormier), who is thrust into the responsibilities of being the Avatar who can master all four elements. He wakes up after being frozen in ice for 100 years, only to discover that his fellow Airbenders have been killed by the Fire Nation.
After befriending Katara, Sokka, Toph, and, eventually, Zuko, Aang is on a race against time to master all four elements and end the tyrannical reign of Fire Lord Ozai. The first season of the live-action series was released in 2024, while season two will be released sometime in 2026 on Netflix. The streaming giant confirmed earlier this year that the series is renewed for a third season.
Source: inquirer.net
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Jam Villanueva confirms 2026 will be her final year with Ben&Ben
December 14 ------ Jam Villanueva — drummer of Ben&Ben — confirmed that 2026 will be her final year with the folk-pop band, noting that her marriage and wrist injury were among the factors that led to her decision.
Villanueva announced her looming departure on her Instagram page on Thursday, Dec. 11, referring to herself as the persona behind the band’s single “Saranggola.” “There’s no easy way to say this. Next year, 2026, will be my last year with the band. Yes, ako ‘yung ‘Saranggola.’ And just like the song, the greatest and most important part of all of this is the friendships and relationships I’ve gained through it all,” she said. “I hope to see you next year sa mga shows, events, and hangouts. Let’s make next year a fun and memorable one. Love you, Liwanag.”
While looking back at her time with Ben&Ben, the musician said getting married and dealing in a wrist injury “redefined the life” she wanted to have for herself. She added that eight years with Ben&Ben allowed each member to grow. “As each year passed, we also grew as people. As individuals, living our lives in the pockets of time we had outside being a band, with each experience shaping us and allowing us to rediscover ourselves,” she said.
In 2024, I got married. And in April of 2025, I injured my wrist. These two events have developed and strengthened my values, and in turn redefined the life I see myself living,” she continued. Villanueva, who confessed that making music has long been a dream of hers, said being part of Ben&Ben gave her a family that she will “have and cherish forever.” She also shared that the band’s fans (also known as Liwanag) taught her the beauty of having a tight-knit community.
“Words can never express how deep my gratitude is for everyone on our team, our collaborators, and every single person who listens and connects with our music. We literally wouldn’t have been able to do and keep doing any of this if it weren’t for you,” she said. “You encouraged us to create honest music by fully accepting our awkward and introverted selves, and by just allowing us to be who we are. At the time of the release of this video, the band had been together for eight years, seven months, and a few days. Eight years of playing, eight years of challenges, eight years of friendship, and eight years of building and living life the way I dreamed of when I was a kid,” she further added.
Villanueva revealed last May that she had been suffering from De Quervain’s tendinosis and Drummer’s wrist which affected her ability to play the drums. She underwent surgery and has been recovering since then. Formed in 2016, Ben&Ben is composed of Villanueva, twins Paolo and Miguel Benjamin Guico, Poch Barretto, Agnes Reoma, Andrew De Pano, Toni Muñoz, Keifer Cabugao, and Patricia Lasaten. The band is best known for their hit songs “Maybe The Night,” “Leaves,” and “Kathang Isip,” to name a few.
Source: inquirer.net
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SPORTS NEWS
SBP welcomes new FIBA rule which raises non-restricted age to 18
December 14 ------ THE Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas welcomed the recent decision of FIBA to adjust the eligibility age for players who will represent their respective countries in international tournaments.
In an approved amendments by the Central Board to the regulations for the national status of players, the world governing body for basketball now recognizes players as non-restricted for those who obtained passport before the age of 18 from 16. The resolution was made after the body convened last Dec. 5 in Mies, Switzerland to discuss the completion of the opening window of the FIBA 2027 World Cup qualifiers simultaneously held around the world. “That’s good news,” said SBP President Ricky Vargas in a short message, but without further elaborating. “The Central Board approved amendments to the regulations for the National Status of players, notably clarifying the process under which players both in basketball and 3x3 have their national status determined or changed, introducing more objective criteria,” said FIBA in its official website. “Going forward, players who obtained a passport before the age of 18 rather than 16, will not be considered as restricted.”
Former SBP president Al S. Panlilio, who represents the SBP in the Central Board, said ‘restricted is the new (FIBA) term for naturalized.’ The old rule of allowing foreign-born players to obtain a passport of the country they intend to represent before turning 16 to be considered as a local has been a bane for the country for sometime now, with NBA star Jordan Clarkson among its casualties. Under the ruling, Clarkson is allowed to play only as a naturalized player since he failed to obtain a Filipino passport before he turned 16.
The same case applied for other Fil-foreign players such as Christian Stanhardinger, Stanley Pringle, and Mo Tautuaa, who were all considered and played as naturalized players for Gilas Pilipinas. During the same meeting, the Central Board also approved prohibiting players from transferring and playing for another national team once he already played in a FIBA meet representing another country. “Players who have participated with a national team in senior main FIBA tournaments will no longer be able to play for another national team,” said the world governing body for basketball.
Eric Gordon was among those who played for two different national teams in the past, initially suiting up for Team USA in the 2010 FIBA World Championship, and later switching sides to play for Bahamas in the 2024 Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Gordon’s mother is a native of the Bahamas.
Source: spin.ph
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Eala secures Australian Open main draw spot
December 14 ------ AS she is preparing for the tennis tournament of the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, Philippine tennis star Alex Eala made it to the main draw of the 2026 Australian Open. Currently ranked 52nd in the Women’s Tennis Association rankings, Eala is among 105 women who will take part in the women’s singles main draw.
The list consists of 102 of the world’s best women’s singles tennis players, along with three wild cards. Although Eala remained 50th in the world from Nov. 3 to Dec. 1, she dropped to 52nd, while she was in preparation for the SEA Games. Among the top seeded players in the tournament are World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, followed by Iga Swiatek of Poland, Americans Coco Gauff, Amanda Anisimova, Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys, Elena Ryabkina of Kazakhstan, Jasmine Paolini of Italy, and Russians Mirra Andreeva and Ekaterina Alexandrova.
The Australian Open will take place from Jan. 12 to Feb. 1, 2026. Eala carried the country’s colors at the opening ceremony of the biennial meet at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, alongside Alas Pilipinas captain Bryan Bagunas. Prior to the SEA Games, she had a meteoric rise in the WTA standings, with success at the Miami Open and her championship at the Guadalajara Open.
The tennis tournament of the 2025 SEA Games kicked off on Wednesday at the National Tennis Development Center in the Thai city of Nonthaburi, starting with the women’s team event, where Eala is part of a team of five, along with Stefi Aludo, Alexa Milliam, Tenielle Medis and Shaira Hope Rivera. Meanwhile, the women’s singles tournament is set to start on Saturday, Dec. 13, starting with a round of 16. As of press time, the tournament’s seedings and brackets are yet to be revealed.
Source: manilatimes.net
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Philippine esports body announces plans to put up national training center
MANILA, Philippines, December 14 ------ A “home for champions” for esports players is expected to rise next year. The Philippine Esports Organization (Peso) said they are targeting the activation of a National Esports Training Facility next year.
This, as they signed a partnership with e-gaming platform Arena Social, which, Peso secretary general Joebert Yu said, will push a “comprehensive, three-pronged approach designed to sustain and grow the industry.” “Excellence requires an environment that fosters it. Therefore, we are thrilled to announce that this funding will spearhead the activation of the National Esports Training Facility in 2026,” he said. “This will not just be a building; it will be a sanctuary for excellence.”
The training facility, Go said, will serve as a “state-of-the-art headquarters for athlete development, equipping our national players with world-class technology, expert coaching and essential mental wellness support.” Peso’s alliance with Arena Social was announced ahead of the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this year. “This alliance marks a new chapter for the advancement of Esports in our country. It is a collaboration born not just out of necessity, but out of a shared vision to elevate Filipino Esports talent on both the local and international stages,” Go said. “Peso is poised to implement a comprehensive, three-pronged approach designed to sustain and grow our industry leading up to 2026 and beyond,” he added. “This is not merely a plan for today, it is a blueprint for our future.”
The organization's grassroots program will also be strengthened, as they aim to “decentralize opportunities.” “We aim to discover untapped talent in the provinces, and more importantly, provide a structured, sustainable pathway for other gamers to transition into the professional scene.”
Erik Su, the managing director of Arena Social, voiced hope that the partnership “will provide assistance to the esports players, to the national team, to the community, and help the people get into the training and the competition, boost their confidence, and believe themselves in the very early beginning of their playing.”
Source: philstar.com
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