Maynilad Schedules October 30 IPO After Market-Driven Delay

Maynilad Water Services Inc. has announced that it will launch its initial public offering (IPO) on October 30, following a delay intended to provide cornerstone investors additional time amidst a fluctuating stock market. Initially, under its preliminary prospectus dated August 28, the company had planned to conduct its share offering between October 16 and 22, with pricing scheduled for October 13. The utility company aims to raise as much as P45.8 billion by offering 1.66 billion common shares, with an over-allotment option allowing for up to 249 million additional shares. The shares could be priced at a maximum of P20 each. Additionally, the IPO includes a preferential allotment of up to 24.9 million shares designated for First Pacific Co. Ltd., a key shareholder of Maynilad. Originally, the company intended to list its shares on the stock exchange under the ticker symbol "MYNLD" in July. However, the IPO was postponed to October to better accommodate cornerstone investors in light of a volatile market environment. This strategic rescheduling reflects Maynilad's commitment to securing stable investment and maximizing the success of its public offering.

DILG Refutes Claims Linking Gen. Nicolas Torre's Dismissal to Firearms Purchase Dispute

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has dismissed allegations that the sudden removal of Gen. Nicolas Torre III from his position as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) was related to his reported resistance to an P8-billion firearms procurement plan. A recent report claimed Torre was relieved after refusing Interior Secretary Juanito Victor "Jonvic" Remulla’s directive to acquire 80,000 assault rifles for the PNP’s 228,000 personnel. In response, the DILG categorically denied the report but acknowledged that Secretary Remulla and Gen. Torre had discussed the proposed acquisition. The department emphasized that Remulla had merely requested Torre to evaluate the procurement based on the PNP’s "operational necessity." "This claim is false... There was no directive to purchase (the firearms)," the DILG stated in a press release issued shortly after the report surfaced. The department further clarified that any such procurement would require congressional approval, as the firearms were not included in the National Expenditure Program. Since taking office, Remulla has neither facilitated nor endorsed any budget insertions through Congress. Additionally, the DILG noted that during the PNP’s anniversary event on August 12, Gen. Torre expressed to Secretary Remulla his view that the firearms purchase was unnecessary—a position the secretary agreed with. Secretary Remulla also asserted that there was no personal ill will towards Torre, who previously gained national recognition for leading the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte under an International Criminal Court-issued warrant. The report also mentioned that Gen. Torre’s predecessor, Gen. Rommel Marbil, was reportedly sidelined during a high-profile rescue operation of an abducted Chinese student and the investigation into the kidnapping and murder of businessman Anson Que. According to sources, these operations were directed by Remulla and then-deputy, now acting PNP chief, Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., without informing Marbil.

Gabbi Garcia Highlights Hard-Earned Travels Amid Criticism of Political Kin’s Lavish Displays

Actress Gabbi Garcia took to Instagram on August 29 to post a video compiling moments from her recent international travels. The footage, accompanied by text stating, \"Rich in life ’cause I can travel the world and live my best days with my own hard-earned money,\" was interpreted by many as a subtle response to the rising online criticism directed at content creators and relatives of government officials flaunting extravagant lifestyles amid investigations into controversial flood control projects. In her caption, Garcia reaffirmed her stance, writing, \"Yes to hard-earned money and self-made queens!\" This garnered widespread praise from fellow celebrities and followers. Broadcast journalist Karen Davila commented with a fire emoji, \"Exactly. Hard earned money.\" Actress Max Collins echoed the sentiment with, \"Amen!\" Kapuso actor Gil Cuerva added, \"This is the only acceptable flex! hard earned money.\" Even Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel expressed support, saying, \"Let’s go sis!\" Several Instagram users highlighted the distinction, noting, \"Hindi galing sa kaban ng bayan!\" (Not from public funds). Another remarked, \"YAAAS. You can post and flaunt as long as it’s not coming from taxpayers’ money!\" Garcia’s travel reel has attracted significant engagement, amassing over 1 million views, 92,100 likes, 3,200 reposts, nearly 1,300 comments, and 1,878 shares to date. The post comes during a period of heightened scrutiny on social media personalities, especially those linked to government officials implicated in allegedly corrupt flood control projects. Many criticize the ostentatious displays of wealth by these individuals, which are widely presumed to be financed through illicit means. Numerous public figures have voiced concerns over such extravagance, urging influencers and those in the public eye to exercise greater responsibility and sensitivity amid ongoing calls for transparency and accountability. TV host Bianca Gonzalez Intal expressed frustration about the social climate, stating on X (formerly Twitter), \"My feed filled with posts on the lavish lifestyle of kids of corrupt officials... and here we are, those without generational wealth or stolen riches, who work hard every day, sometimes feeling ashamed to share travels or purchases for fear of seeming boastful. How is this fair?\" Karen Davila also remarked, \"KURAKOT SHAMING. It’s high time. In other countries, those who steal from the government are jailed or driven to despair. In the Philippines, they are envied. Enough is enough.\" This discourse continues to resonate strongly in a climate demanding ethical conduct and fiscal responsibility from public figures and their associates.

Putin to Meet Xi Amid Growing Chinese Presence in Moscow

Moscow is increasingly marked by signs of Chinese influence ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s scheduled visit to China next week. The presence of Chinese business centers, cultural parks with traditional pavilions, and an upsurge in Russian citizens learning Mandarin and practicing Kung Fu underscore the deepening ties between the two nations. "It seems that the contacts with China are intensifying. A mutual interest is growing," said Natalia Gerasimova, a manager at a Russian company, who recently visited Beijing and frequents Moscow's Chinese landscape park. She added, "They are open to us, they treat us well. So in Russia I do not see any resistance to these relations either. Yes, we have different mentalities, but we are alike in some ways." Following Russia’s military actions in Ukraine in 2022, Western sanctions isolated Moscow economically, prompting China to support Russia by purchasing large quantities of Russian oil and supplying goods ranging from cars to electronics. This cooperation helped bilateral trade reach an unprecedented $245 billion in 2024. In 2022, Presidents Putin and Xi Jinping formalized their closer relationship through a "no limits" partnership agreement. However, despite China remaining Russia’s largest trading partner, recent data indicate a decline in trade turnover this year, which sources suggest Putin aims to address during his upcoming summit. Chinese footprints are distinct across Moscow. The Chinese flag flies prominently at a business center in the northeast, while locals and visitors alike enjoy walking through parks adorned with elaborate Chinese architectural features. The partnership is viewed by some as pragmatic rather than strategic. Entrepreneur Roman Dmitriev noted, "China is about industry, about the labour market, but it is not about technologies. Technologies always come from the West - from the U.S., from Europe. So, as soon as the West reopens to us, we will switch back. And it will be a logical step. (But) for now, China is our booster. We can compare it with an athletic friend in school who can defend and fight for you." Reflecting the cultural shift, Moscow's "Chinese First" language school reports a surge in demand among both children and adults eager to learn Mandarin. Natalia Wang, the school’s director, stated, "It was like a switch was flicked. One day the applications started pouring in." Chinese-manufactured vehicles have also gained visibility within Moscow’s automotive market. Nevertheless, consumer skepticism remains, with some Russians still favoring German or Japanese brands for their perceived quality and safety. Valery Bondarenko, a pensioner examining cars at a local dealership, remarked, "Chinese cars have come on in leaps and bounds, but they face our consumer conservatism. We still believe German or Japanese cars guarantee 100% quality and safety." As Putin’s visit approaches, the evolving Sino-Russian dynamic reflects a multifaceted relationship shaped by geopolitical necessity, economic pragmatism, and growing cultural exchange.

PLDT and Kobe Shinwa University Set for Premier Volleyball League Invitational Final

MANILA, Philippines – The Premier Volleyball League Invitational will culminate in a high-stakes final as the Philippines' PLDT team squares off against Japan’s Kobe Shinwa University. The clash, scheduled for Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, follows Kobe Shinwa’s thrilling 21-25, 17-25, 26-24, 25-22, 15-6 victory over the Chery Tiggo Crossovers on Friday evening. This win marked Kobe Shinwa’s fourth triumph in five matches, propelling them to second place behind the unbeaten PLDT squad, which went 5-0 in the elimination round. As the tournament’s sole guest team, Kobe Shinwa earned a spot in the championship match, where they will challenge the reigning PVL on Tour champions, PLDT. Kobe Shinwa’s star setter Sakura Furuta was pivotal in orchestrating the comeback, delivering 33 precise assists in the last three sets. Her skillful play enabled leading scorer Nagisa Komatsuda to amass 31 points, supported by powerful contributions from Kokoro Yasuma (16 points), Arisu Ishikawa (11 points), and Reira Miyazaki (10 points). "In the first and second sets, I was not very good, I could not give the ball well to my spikers," Furuta admitted through a translator. "But in the third set, my game returned and I set well." The Chery Tiggo Crossovers initially dominated the match, capturing the first two sets and appearing on course for an easy victory. However, Furuta’s resurgence ignited Kobe Shinwa’s spirited rally, which ultimately left Chery Tiggo struggling to respond. As a result, the Crossovers dropped to a 3-2 record and now face the Creamline Cool Smashers in the third-place playoff, also scheduled for Sunday. The final showdown between PLDT and Kobe Shinwa promises to be a compelling contest as both teams vie for the championship crown.

US Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Dan Caine Plans Visit to Boost US-Philippine Reserve Force Collaboration

United States Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine has announced plans to visit the Philippines with the goal of enhancing collaboration between American citizen-soldiers and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reserve force. This announcement follows a meeting between Gen. Caine and Philippine Air Force Reserve Col. Michael Romero during the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) convention. The two officials exchanged views on pressing regional security issues and the growing contributions of reserve units. Col. Romero, who leads the Association of Reservists and Reserve Officers of the Philippines (ARRAPI), and Gen. Caine discussed how reservists and National Guardsmen contribute to stability operations throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Gen. Caine, appointed in 2025 by President Donald Trump, has prioritized revitalizing the National Guard and enhancing integration with reserve forces as part of his leadership agenda. The Philippine delegation at NGAUS included Maj. Gen. Gerold Gagan, Maj. Gen. Arvin Lagamon, Maj. Gen. Doroteo Jalandoni, Brig. Gen. Geminic Ramirez, and Brig. Gen. Onorlie Brillantes, accompanied by officials from ARRAPI. Maj. Gen. Gagan emphasized the Philippines' growing cooperative efforts with the Guam and Hawaii National Guards, particularly in disaster response and defense initiatives. In his NGAUS address, Gen. Caine commended the Texas National Guard for their efforts in rescuing over 525 individuals during recent floods. This message resonated strongly with the Filipino delegation, who had recently supported flood relief operations in Bulacan, aiding in the evacuation of more than 7,500 people displaced by Tropical Storm Crising. Experts view the meeting as a meaningful advancement in Guard-to-reserve collaboration, potentially leading to expanded joint training programs and coordinated humanitarian efforts in the future.

CCEC Unveils Ambitious Plan to Establish Cebu as a Creative Industry Powerhouse by 2030

The Cebu Creative Entertainment Council (CCEC) is preparing to present an enhanced proposal to Cebu’s new city officials, aiming to position the city as a leading creative hub in the Visayas with a target to develop the sector into a P30-billion industry by 2030. Mario Panganiban, president of CCEC, emphasized the creation of a dedicated Creative District, anchored by the “Silver City” development. This project is envisioned as a dynamic live-work-play-and-learn environment designed to support artists, animators, game developers, and other creative professionals. Pending regulatory approval, construction is anticipated to commence in 2026. "Our core goal is growth. Cebu has the potential to emerge as a premier destination for the creative industry if we continue to build on our achievements," Panganiban stated during the Creative Entertainment Business Forum on August 29, 2025, held at Montebello Villa Hotel as part of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Cebu Business Months. First introduced in 2023, the initiative gained significant momentum in 2024 when the Cebu City Government actively sought investments for the Creative District. Then-acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia presented the concept as a 150-hectare mixed-use development requiring an estimated infrastructure investment of P10 billion to the Department of Trade and Industry. The CCEC is now revitalizing the project for renewed endorsement from current city leadership to ensure policy alignment and support. Silver City, the district’s cornerstone, is planned as a 200,000-square-meter mixed-use complex, encompassing studios, shared service facilities, educational spaces, and entertainment venues. Highlighting Cebu’s growing appeal, Panganiban noted several prominent foreign and domestic companies, including a German game development studio and multiple Manila-based firms, have established operations locally. Additionally, two US studios are scheduled to launch branches soon. He pointed out Cebu’s competitive edge - affordable operating costs, an expanding talent pool, and an attractive lifestyle - as key investment drivers. "Investing in Cebu means profiting in paradise," Panganiban remarked. Inspired by the success of Cebu IT Park, the Creative District is set to occupy 150 hectares in the North Reclamation Area, targeting investments in film, design, fashion, and digital arts. The CCEC currently supports seven sectors: animation, game development, original intellectual property, social media, theater, film, and music. Challenges remain, with funding cited as the primary obstacle. The council is exploring collaborations with financial institutions to encourage venture capital instead of traditional lending. Plans also include establishing shared service centers offering legal, accounting, and IT assistance to support startups. Panganiban emphasized the importance of consistent governmental incentives comparable to those available in Manila. Although Cebu’s electricity rates are now lower than Manila’s, energy costs still pose concerns for investors. Other challenges include limited mentorship opportunities and overcoming language barriers in partnerships with Japanese firms. To cultivate a stronger workforce, CCEC is enhancing partnerships between academia and industry to better align educational programs with market needs. To address brain drain, the council is promoting a "brain gain" initiative to attract Filipino creatives overseas with competitive salaries, indicating early feedback from expatriates showing willingness to return if offered pay within 30-40% of global standards. Beyond Cebu City, efforts are underway to develop satellite creative hubs in neighboring areas like Danao, Bogo, Carcar, Bohol, Siargao, Ormoc, Dumaguete, and Siquijor, with Cebu envisioned as the central “super hub.” Despite the challenges, Panganiban remains optimistic: "When we were small, no one noticed us. Now we are gaining recognition in Singapore, Indonesia, and Japan. The key is to maintain our growth trajectory." With Silver City, strengthened academe-industry collaborations, and financial reforms, the council aims for Cebu to capture a larger share of the global creative economy and emerge as Southeast Asia’s next creative capital.

Department of Tourism Launches Philippine Golf Experience to Boost Sports Tourism

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE – The Department of Tourism (DOT) officially introduced the Philippine Golf Experience (GolfEx) on Friday, August 29, 2025, during a ceremony held at Mimosa Plus Golf Course in Clark, Pampanga. The event showcased golf lessons and a tournament featuring diplomats, enthusiasts, and professional players. GolfEx is an initiative under the DOT’s Philippine Experience Program, designed to elevate the Philippines as a top golf destination within the region. During the launch, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized the broader impact of tourism, stating, \"It’s not only about the number of arrivals, but also about sustaining livelihoods, strengthening enterprises, and fostering pride within our communities.\" She further highlighted the advantages of golf tourism, saying, \"Golf is a sustainable, high-value, low-impact form of tourism that encourages visitors to stay longer, spend more, and form deeper connections with our destinations, often leading to repeat visits.\" Elisa Bulawit, Executive Secretary of the Professional Golfers Association of the Philippines, underscored the country’s potential in golfing tourism. \"The Philippines boasts numerous world-class golf courses that remain undiscovered by many enthusiasts. Comparable to Vietnam’s strategy of promoting their top courses, we have great opportunities to attract more golfers," she remarked. She added that courses across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are rated highly in terms of quality and service. The DOT is targeting increased golf tourism from key markets such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States, as well as expanding outreach to Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Southeast Asian countries. Secretary Frasco noted the unique appeal of golfing in the Philippines, emphasizing that \"our destinations offer more than excellent courses – visitors can enjoy activities such as beach visits and diving alongside their golf experience.\" The launch ceremony featured a ceremonial tee-off led by Secretary Frasco, alongside Senator Lito Lapid, Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Vietnamese Ambassador Thai Binh Lai, Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, Clark Development Corporation President Agnes Devanadera, and industry leaders from the tourism and business sectors. Mimosa Plus, a premier golf facility located near an international airport, is among over 100 golf courses nationwide. A recent report from Leechiu Property Consultants revealed plans for at least seven new golf estates, including Marina Estates, Nascala Coast, Arillo in Nasugbu, and several projects in Batangas by top developers such as Megaworld, Ayala Land, and Rockwell Land. This initiative marks a significant step in positioning the Philippines as a competitive and sustainable golf tourism destination in Asia.

Top Pole Vault Athletes to Clash at Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge in Makati

The Philippines is set to host some of the world's leading pole vault athletes at the upcoming Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge scheduled for September 21, 2025, in Makati City. This announcement was confirmed by EJ Obiena, the country's top pole vaulter and currently ranked fifth in the world. Obiena will compete alongside internationally renowned athletes, including Menno Vloon from the Netherlands, who holds the world No. 7 ranking, Austin Miller from the United States at No. 14, and Matt Ludwig, ranked No. 25 globally. The event promises to be a highly competitive showdown featuring some of the sport's brightest talents.

Senator Bong Go Urges Enhanced Support and Modernization for Firefighters

At the graduation event for the National Fire Training Institute’s Class Mandasig held at Camp Vicente Lim, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go highlighted the critical need for increased support and modern resources for firefighters. Addressing the 772 new graduates, Go acknowledged the sacrifices these frontline heroes make, stating, \"I see the sacrifices of our firefighters. Your lives are in danger, so thank you.\" He lauded their quiet commitment behind every fire averted, every life rescued, and every community protected, recognizing their strength and selflessness without expectation of praise. As the author of the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, Go reiterated his dedication to advancing the firefighters’ capabilities not only through personnel but also by ensuring they have access to up-to-date firefighting technology and specialized training. \"Courage alone is not enough. Proper equipment, comprehensive training, and consistent government support are essential for your success and safety,\" he emphasized. The senator also reminded the graduates of the vital importance of integrity, stressing that the uniform they wear symbolizes the public's trust. \"Guard it carefully and resist any temptations that could tarnish it. True integrity is reflected not by who observes your actions but by how you behave when no one is watching,\" Go remarked. Referencing their class name, "Mandasig," which signifies bravery and dedication, he encouraged the new firefighters to remain resolute and tireless in their mission to protect and save lives.