Team Philippines Reflects on Competing with Manny Pacquiao in "Physical: Asia"

Philippine athletes Mark "Mugen" Striegl and Lara Liwanag have shared their memorable experiences competing alongside boxing legend Manny Pacquiao as part of Team Philippines on the reality show "Physical: Asia." During an interview on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda," they recounted the excitement and surreal nature of being introduced alongside other competitors, with the crowd erupting when Pacquiao’s name was announced. "It was truly surreal for me," Lara shared. "I never expected to be with him, my idol, standing right beside me. Knowing that all these athletes are capable and competitive means the esteem they hold for Pacman is incredibly high. He was the most famous athlete there." Mark echoed this sentiment, describing the experience as "amazing" and "surreal." He praised Pacquiao’s approachable demeanor as team captain, noting his warmth, humility, and attentiveness. "I remember during breaks, he gave us advice on nutrition—like eating bananas for potassium—and emphasized the importance of staying hydrated during competition. It was very inspiring," Mark recounted. Lara also highlighted Manny Pacquiao’s faith-based leadership. "What I appreciated was that before every challenge, he would sincerely seek guidance from the Lord. He’d start each quest with prayer, asking for strength and direction." Along with Mark and Lara, Team Philippines included Ray Jefferson Querubin, Justin Coveney, and Robyn Lauren Brown. Manny Pacquiao departed the competition early due to prior commitments and was replaced by Justin Hernandez. Team Philippines was the third team to be eliminated from the competition shortly afterward.

BuCor and PEZA Collaborate to Establish Iwahig Prison as Special Economic Zone

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) have formally initiated measures to have the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) in Palawan declared a special economic zone by the Office of the President. BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang and PEZA Director General Tereso Pangan signed a joint memorandum circular on November 20 to facilitate this development. Catapang explained that this agreement aids the transfer of exclusive rights over a specified area within the IPPF, earmarked for ecozone development. "This documentation is essential for submission to the President for the formal proclamation," Catapang stated. In accordance with a supplemental agreement from June 9, PEZA has been granted exclusive use and management rights over the IPPF land for 50 years, with an option to renew for another 25 years. Catapang highlighted the significance of this collaboration, saying, "This long-term partnership between government agencies demonstrates our commitment to transforming the Palawan Mega Economic Zone into a dynamic center for business and investment." Under the agreed revenue-sharing scheme, PEZA will remit 90 percent of monthly rental income from businesses operating within the ecozone back to BuCor, retaining 10 percent as management fees. BuCor will ensure clear legal title of the property and is responsible for securing all required government permits, including environmental clearances and local government endorsements. Meanwhile, PEZA will prepare the necessary documents for the Presidential Proclamation and coordinate with the technical working group to guarantee the completeness of all required submissions. This initiative is expected to advance economic growth in Palawan by attracting investments and promoting sustainable development within the IPPF area.

Maynilad Unveils New Wastewater Treatment Plant to Boost Sewerage Coverage in Muntinlupa

Maynilad Water Services Inc. has inaugurated its newest wastewater treatment plant, the Tunasan Water Reclamation Facility, in Muntinlupa City as part of its ongoing efforts to expand sewerage coverage in southern Metro Manila and reduce pollution entering Laguna de Bay. This facility marks the company’s 25th treatment site and is capable of processing 20 million liters of wastewater daily. It is designed to serve approximately 83,000 customers in the area. Wastewater collected from nearby creeks is conveyed through 1.4 kilometers of sewer pipelines to the plant, which employs the Modified Ludzack–Ettinger biological treatment process to effectively remove contaminants. The Tunasan facility meets the heightened effluent standards mandated by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). After treatment, the purified water is discharged responsibly into Bubogan Creek. Ramoncito Fernandez, Maynilad’s president and CEO, emphasized the broader significance of the plant, stating, \"Every wastewater facility we build is more than infrastructure—it is a commitment to public health, a step toward cleaner waterways, and an investment in a future where communities can thrive alongside a healthy environment.\" The project was developed in collaboration with several government agencies, including the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), DENR, the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), and the Muntinlupa City government. This addition increases Maynilad’s overall wastewater treatment capacity to 790 million liters per day. Maynilad is the exclusive water service provider for Metro Manila’s West Zone and parts of Cavite province, continuously advancing infrastructure to enhance water quality and environmental sustainability in its service areas.

Philippines Accelerates Growth in Global Animation Industry with New Initiatives

The Philippines is intensifying its efforts to capture a greater portion of the US$413 billion global animation industry, focusing on increasing exports, expanding its rapidly growing talent pool, and advancing Filipino-owned intellectual property development. According to the Animation Council of the Philippines Inc. (Acpi), the sector generated $60 million in revenue in 2024 and employs over 7,500 professionals. This workforce is expected to more than double, reaching over 15,000 employees by 2028, with the industry’s value anticipated to grow to $141 million. Enhanced demand and government-supported trade initiatives are enabling the industry to evolve from primarily outsourcing services toward producing original content. Central to these efforts is the upcoming Animahenasyon 2025 festival, scheduled for November 24 to 26 in Metro Manila. The event, a key indicator of the country’s animation industry progress, is reinstating signature activities such as AniSine, AniTalk, and the AniKompetisyon Awards, which has attracted over 100 entries this year. For the first time, the festival will include AniBusiness, a business-to-business convention set for November 26 at Seda BGC. Organized by Acpi in partnership with the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions’ (Citem) CreatePhilippines, this component aims to facilitate outsourcing contracts, co-production opportunities, and international collaborations. CreatePhilippines will leverage its extensive trade network to bring both local and international buyers to the event, offering incentives and business-matching sessions. Participating delegates will also experience AniXperience, a cultural and business program featuring tours of Intramuros and visits to creative communities in La Union. The partnership between Acpi and Citem was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed on October 13. Acpi’s executive director Daniel Enriquez and president Marlyn Montano, alongside Citem executive director Leah Pulido Ocampo, collaborated to develop initiatives aimed at positioning the Philippines as a major hub for animation. "Filipino animators have long helped bring some of the world’s most beloved titles to life," Ocampo stated. "It’s time the local industry gains the recognition it deserves. This year’s Animahenasyon can mark the start of the next stage of our industry’s evolution."

ABS-CBN Remains Premier Media Company Upholding Filipino Values Globally

ABS-CBN continues to lead as the top media and entertainment company in the Philippines, providing high-quality programming across television, radio, digital platforms, and film. With a strong commitment to public service and the promotion of Filipino values, the company strives to inspire and engage audiences both domestically and internationally. Beyond its content offerings, ABS-CBN maintains a focus on excellence in corporate governance and investor relations, as well as expanding its international distribution to reach global viewers. This comprehensive approach reinforces ABS-CBN\'s position as a key contributor to the cultural and media landscape of the Philippines and beyond.

Regie Suganob Confident Ahead of Title-Contending Bout Against Mchanja Yohana

Regie Suganob, a former world title challenger, expressed unwavering confidence as he prepares to face world-ranked Tanzanian fighter Mchanja Yohana in the main event of the PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions card "Kumong Bol-anon 23" this Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the PMI Main Campus Gym in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. Despite not having fought for nearly a year, the native of Bohol assured that his training has been consistent, with regular sparring sessions alongside his teammates from the PMI Boxing Stable. "I have maintained my preparation for one year. I am 100 percent ready, but I won’t be complacent because my opponent is also highly ranked," Suganob stated. His manager and head of PMI Boxing Promotions, Atty. Floriezyl Echavez Podot, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Suganob remains sharp despite his layoff. "Regie won’t experience any ring rust as he has kept up with his training. There will be no rust issues for him," Podot remarked. Podot also highlighted the significance of this matchup for Suganob’s career, viewing it as a pivotal opportunity to position himself for another shot at a world title. Currently, Suganob holds rankings of No. 4 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), No. 9 by the World Boxing Council (WBC), and No. 11 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) in the light-flyweight division. "We followed the WBO’s guidance to have him face a world-rated opponent," Podot added. On the other hand, Yohana is eager to bounce back following his unanimous decision loss to former world champion Milan Melindo in his initial bout in the Philippines in 2023. Through an interpreter, Yohana conveyed his determination: "We’re ready. We’re here to win. Returning to the Philippines, we take this fight seriously. There’s no room to run." Suganob currently boasts a record of 16 wins and 1 loss, with 6 knockouts, while Yohana holds a 21-6-1 record with 15 knockouts. The event will also feature other notable bouts, including Leonard Pores III (8-0, 7 KOs) against Cebu-based Japanese fighter Kiyoto Narukami (5-1-1, 2 KOs) competing for the vacant IBF Youth flyweight title. Additionally, Freshler Utrera (4-0, 2 KOs) will battle Sherwin Dacullo (4-1-1, 2 KOs) for the delayed Philippine Youth minimumweight championship. Other matchups scheduled include Virgel Vitor (23-4, 16 KOs) vs. Alven Vergara (8-4-1, 6 KOs), Gerwin Asilo (11-1, 5 KOs) vs. Yeroge Gura (8-2-1, 3 KOs), Jericho Acaylar (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Francis Arante (0-0-1), and Jick-Kier Autida (0-0) vs. John Paul Oyong (0-2).

IAG Joins Lufthansa and Air France-KLM in Bidding for Stake in TAP Air Portugal

The International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling, confirmed on Friday that it has officially expressed interest in acquiring a stake in TAP Air Portugal. This move aligns IAG with other European airline giants Lufthansa and Air France-KLM, all vying to invest in the Portuguese national carrier. IAG released a statement indicating it had submitted a statement of interest to Parpublica, the Portuguese state holding company overseeing TAP. "Several conditions will need to be resolved before IAG can advance a formal investment proposal," the spokesperson explained. Portugal announced in September its intention to privatize nearly half (49.9 percent) of TAP Air Portugal, inviting major international airlines to participate. TAP, one of Europe’s few remaining state-owned airlines, was re-nationalized in 2020 as a response to pandemic-related financial losses. The carrier’s strategic routes to Brazil and Portuguese-speaking African nations make it an attractive acquisition target for global airline groups. Besides British Airways and Iberia, IAG’s portfolio includes Irish carrier Aer Lingus and Spain’s Vueling. Lufthansa and Air France-KLM have also entered the competition, seeking to strengthen their networks, particularly toward South America. Highlighting its optimism, the IAG spokesperson said, "We see significant potential for TAP within the IAG group," citing the company’s decentralized operational model and its ability to maintain industry-leading profit margins. The statement emphasized IAG’s commitment to investing in its airlines for the benefit of customers, employees, local economies, and shareholders. Despite a 2.3 percent decline in third-quarter profits to 1.4 billion euros, partly due to reduced demand for U.S. flights, IAG remains focused on strategic growth. Meanwhile, TAP reported a net profit of 125.9 million euros for the third quarter, underscoring its improved financial performance amid the recovery. The bidding process marks a significant step in reshaping the European aviation landscape as TAP prepares for partial privatization.

SEARCA Highlights Role of AI and Biotechnology in Sustainable Agriculture at National Biotechnology Week 2025

The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) actively participated in the National Biotechnology Week (NBW) 2025, held from October 28 to 30 at Manila's Century Park Hotel. Under the theme \"gAIn Biotech: growing Artificial Intelligence, nurturing Biotechnology,\" the event brought together government bodies, academic institutions, students, and private sector representatives to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology on sustainable agriculture, food security, and human capital development. Led by the Philippines' Department of Education (DepEd), this year’s celebration emphasized cultivating scientific curiosity and critical thinking among Filipino learners. Dr. Carmela Oracion, Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary for DepEd’s Learning Systems Strand, delivered the opening remarks highlighting these priorities. Meanwhile, Janir Datukan, Assistant Secretary for Early Childhood Care and Development and Secretary of the Literacy Coordinating Council Secretariat, stressed the importance of rooting technological advancements in human values. SEARCA showcased its commitment through an interactive exhibit booth, which offered attendees hands-on experiences and valuable information on biotechnology and climate-smart agriculture. The exhibit aimed to raise public awareness about biotechnology’s critical role in agricultural innovation and sustainability. Visitors accessed various resources such as policy briefs, fact sheets, case studies, and scholarly publications, reinforcing the link between research and practical application across Southeast Asia. The closing ceremony featured a symbolic handing over of hosting responsibilities from DepEd to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for NBW 2026. Dr. Ebenezar Beloy, Officer-in-Charge Director III of DepEd’s Bureau of Curriculum Development, formally passed the role to DENR’s Lormelyn Claudio, Director IV of the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau. Claudio highlighted the necessity of continued cooperation among science, technology, and innovation stakeholders to foster resilience and optimism in the region’s youth. Ahead of NBW, SEARCA also co-organized a media forum on the biotechnology research and regulatory environment in the Philippines. Held on October 14, 2025, in Manila, the event was conducted in partnership with Science Communicators Philippines and CropLife Philippines. SEARCA’s participation, driven by its Agriculture, Forestry, and Natural Resources Knowledge Platform staff, reaffirmed the Center’s pivotal role in advancing agricultural research, innovation, and education throughout Southeast Asia. The engagement underscores SEARCA’s dedication to strengthening food systems and promoting sustainable development across the region.

Bureau of Immigration Intensifies Monitoring on Former Ako-Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co and Co-accused Amid Arrest Warrants

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has escalated its vigilance after arrest warrants were issued for former Ako-Bicol Partylist representative Zaldy Co and 17 co-accused in connection with irregularities in flood control projects. In a statement released on Sunday, the BI confirmed that the names of all individuals facing charges have been entered into their database. They will be flagged and subjected to verification, with immediate action to be taken if any attempt to enter or exit the country through airports or seaports is detected. "Once intercepted, our officers have strict directives to coordinate promptly with the Philippine National Police to ensure the lawful execution of the warrants," said Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado. The BI also disclosed that four of the accused are currently abroad. Among them are Montrexis Tamayo, Officer-in-Charge of the DPWH Planning and Design Division, last reported in Qatar; Aderma Angelie Alcazar, President and Board Chairman of Sunwest Inc., currently in Australia; and Cesar Buenaventura, Sunwest Inc. treasurer, who is in the United Arab Emirates. The government reported that Co's last known whereabouts were in Japan before traveling to Europe via China on Thursday. The BI emphasized the importance of close inter-agency collaboration to prevent the accused from evading justice. The agency assured full cooperation with other law enforcement bodies to guarantee the proper implementation of the arrest warrants. Commissioner Viado noted that there have been no court orders to revoke Co’s passport. Passport restrictions can only be applied if the individual is a fugitive, has been convicted of a crime, or acquired the document fraudulently.

Eight Accused in P289-Million Flood Control Project Corruption Case Face Sandiganbayan

Eight of the sixteen individuals charged with graft and malversation related to the P289-million substandard flood control project in Oriental Mindoro appeared before the Sandiganbayan on Monday. They underwent booking procedures, which included fingerprinting, and were issued commitment orders specifying their detention pending case resolution. The respondents who appeared before the anti-graft court included: - Gerald Pacanan, DPWH regional director - Gene Ryan Altea, DPWH assistant regional director - Ruben D.S. Santos, DPWH assistant regional director - Dominic Serrano, DPWH construction division chief and Bids and Awards Committee chair - Juliet Calvo, DPWH maintenance division chief - Dennis Abagon, DPWH OIC-chief of Quality Assurance and Hydrology Division and BAC regular member - Felisardo Casuno, DPWH project engineer III Their appearance followed the issuance of arrest warrants and a hold departure order (HDO) by the Sandiganbayan three days prior against all accused individuals. Meanwhile, several other respondents have yet to surrender to authorities. These include former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co, once House appropriations panel chairperson; Montrexis Tamayo, DPWH OIC-chief of Planning and Design Division; Lerma Cayco, DPWH accountant IV; Timojen Sacar, DPWH materials engineer; and five officials from Sunwest Construction—President Aderman Alcazar, Treasurer Cesar Buenaventura, Consuelo Aldon, Engineer Noel Yap Cao, and Anthony Ngo, all board members. The Office of the Ombudsman filed the initial criminal charges on November 18, marking the first legal actions related to the problematic flood control project. This case highlights ongoing efforts to address corruption and substandard public infrastructure projects within government agencies.