Senators Urge Action Against Alleged Corruption in Contractor Accreditation and Flood Control Projects

Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson has urged the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) to take concrete measures against purported corruption involving the sale of contractor accreditation in government projects. During a recent statement, Lacson emphasized that PCAB must go beyond merely denying accusations and actively monitor its members to prevent such abuses. "PCAB leadership should investigate their own ranks instead of dismissing reports of scams related to accreditation," Lacson stated. He questioned how certain contractors received accreditation after allegedly paying at least PHP 2 million, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability. Earlier, Lacson revealed allegations that PCAB demanded payments starting at PHP 2 million in exchange for accreditation certificates, a claim PCAB has firmly denied. The agency clarified that it has not authorized any groups or individuals to guarantee accreditation for money and is currently addressing concerns about "shortcuts" in license issuance. PCAB operates under the Department of Trade and Industry and is part of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines. In parallel developments, Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri proposed appointing an independent third-party agency to investigate the questionable flood control projects allegedly embroiled in corruption. He expressed concerns over the impartiality of congressional investigations, citing possible conflicts of interest within the Senate and House of Representatives. "An impartial body comprised of government investigators and civil society representatives should oversee these probes to ensure fairness," Zubiri explained. Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan also voiced support for creating an independent commission to examine the flood control controversies. He suggested that respected figures such as former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, former DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong lead the effort. "Those responsible should face accountability, especially when they are the ones who complain despite being involved in wrongdoing," Pangilinan remarked. He affirmed support for President Marcos Jr.'s efforts to scrutinize these "ghost projects" thoroughly. Moreover, Senator Bam Aquino highlighted the need to prioritize social services by reconsidering the PHP 243 billion flood control budget allocated for 2026. Aquino advocated for redirecting parts of this budget towards education and healthcare programs, calling for strategic resource reallocation to benefit public welfare. "By optimizing budget cuts and reallocations, we can better serve the Filipino people with free education and healthcare," Aquino stated, expressing optimism about achieving these goals. These calls reflect growing concerns among lawmakers regarding transparency and proper utilization of government funds, emphasizing the necessity of robust mechanisms to combat corruption and enhance public service delivery.

BFAR-Bicol Distributes Modern 62-Foot Tuna Handline Boats to Boost Fisherfolk Livelihoods

LEGAZPI CITY – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Region 5 (BFAR-Bicol) has distributed several 62-foot tuna handline fishing vessels to fishing communities throughout the Bicol region. This initiative aims to improve the income of local fisherfolk while ensuring stable fish supply in the area. According to Rowena Briones, spokesperson for BFAR-5, three of these boats, along with one ganet fishing boat, were recently awarded to provinces including Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Camarines Norte, and Masbate. Each vessel costs approximately PHP7 million and is outfitted with modern fishing technology designed to optimize safety and efficiency in deep-water handline fishing. "These boats are primarily intended to support livelihood and capture fisheries for the beneficiaries. However, with their consent, they may also serve secondary functions such as transportation and other community services," Briones explained. The boats’ advanced equipment is expected to boost fishing productivity while promoting sustainable practices, which is vital given the challenges posed by illegal fishing and declining fish stocks in the region. BFAR-Bicol remains committed to providing necessary support to fisherfolk through such programs to enhance both economic and environmental outcomes.

Philippine Banana Industry Faces Decline Amid Growing Regional Competition and Trade Challenges

The Philippines, once Asia's dominant banana exporter, is steadily losing its competitive edge to Vietnam and Cambodia, struggling under the weight of high tariffs, expensive production, and insufficient government backing. Stephen Antig, executive director of the Philippine Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA), highlighted this concerning trend in a recent interview, noting a decline in the country’s global export share from 13.9 percent in 2019 to just 8.1 percent in 2024. "That’s quite alarming because our competitors have increasingly captured a big portion of the market," he said. Bananas remain a key agricultural export for the Philippines, but trade figures reveal a notable downturn. In 2024, the country exported $1.23 billion worth of bananas, a significant drop from the $1.9 billion peak recorded in 2019, according to data from the International Trade Centre. Export volume also fell to 2.3 million metric tons last year from 2.4 million in 2023, relegating the Philippines to third place in global banana exports. Meanwhile, neighboring countries have expanded their production aggressively. Antig explained that regional competitors benefit from lower production costs and more favorable trade agreements. Japan, a longstanding buyer of Philippine bananas, applies seasonal tariffs of 8 percent during summer and 18 percent in winter. In contrast, Vietnam faces only 5.4 percent and 6.8 percent tariffs, with most Southeast Asian exporters expected to enjoy zero tariffs by 2028 — a status the Philippines has yet to secure. "If one kilo of bananas costs a dollar, the tariff from the Philippines adds 13 cents compared to only six cents for Vietnam," Antig said. "Importers will definitely choose Vietnam bananas because they want to save on duties. How can you compete if ours will still be at 8 and 18 percent when they are already zero?" Additionally, Philippine farmers grapple with production expenses as much as 40 percent higher than those of their counterparts in Vietnam or Cambodia. Challenges include disease management, climate-related disruptions, and adherence to international food safety standards. "The bigger you are, the more profitable you will be, because most of the costs involved are fixed," Antig noted. "But competition has forced many small growers out." Access to financing remains a critical obstacle. Antig pointed out that banks often decline credit to banana farmers, opting to pay penalties rather than comply with agriculture lending laws. He urged the government to establish lending programs with lower interest rates to support small farmers. The outbreak of Fusarium wilt, also known as Panama disease, has devastated over 18,000 hectares of banana plantations. While larger farms are adopting advanced technologies like precision agriculture and artificial intelligence to combat the disease and develop resistant varieties, smaller growers frequently lack access to these innovations. Antig acknowledged recent Department of Agriculture initiatives that provide training on good agricultural practices, which may help small farmers adopt more science-based approaches. "But the private sector cannot do it alone," he emphasized. The PBGEA is also advocating for stronger trade policies, including the Philippines' inclusion in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Antig expressed optimism about the pending application, stating, "If accepted, it could eliminate tariffs on Philippine bananas in Japan. Our application is already submitted, and hopefully it will be taken up this November." Once the preferred banana supplier for much of Asia, the Philippines now faces the risk of losing its longstanding leadership position. Without comprehensive tariff relief and enhanced governmental support, the industry may struggle to regain its footing. "If we can really level the playing field by eliminating tariffs globally, that will be the biggest opportunity," Antig concluded. When asked if bananas could still emerge as the country’s next top export, he affirmed, "Yes."

CSC-CAR Calls for Filling Over 20,000 Vacant Government Posts to Enhance Public Service Delivery

The Civil Service Commission-Cordillera Administrative Region (CSC-CAR) has emphasized the urgency for government agencies to fill more than 20,000 vacant plantilla positions to improve public service efficiency. Currently, out of 67,790 plantilla slots in the region, only 47,188 are occupied, leaving roughly one-third unfilled. "Based on the Agency Capacity Evaluation Card, there are 67,790 plantilla positions in CAR, with around 20,000 still vacant," stated Myra Walis-Nuarin, CSC-CAR's chief human resource specialist, during a briefing marking the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary. To streamline recruitment, the CSC will organize a government job fair at SM City Baguio on September 9. The event will feature participation from at least 19 agencies, collectively offering 1,739 vacancies, including 800 positions within the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Applicants are reminded that civil service eligibility is mandatory for government employment. Recent exam results indicate that only 13 to 15 percent of regional examinees pass, underscoring the competitive nature of entry into the government workforce. Additional job requirements include relevant specialized training and experience, depending on the position. The CSC-CAR continues to encourage qualified candidates to apply and help strengthen public service delivery across the region.

South Korea Sees Sharpest Increase in Births Since 1981

South Korea registered its most significant growth in newborns for the month of June since records began in 1981, according to government data released Wednesday. A total of 19,953 babies were born last month, reflecting a 9.4 percent increase compared to June of the previous year. This marks the twelfth consecutive month of year-on-year growth in births, although the number of newborns dipped below 20,000 for the first time in three months. The nation’s total fertility rate—the average number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime—inched up by 0.06 to 0.76 in June, fueled by a rise in childbirths among women aged 35 to 39. In the second quarter of the year, births rose by 7.3 percent from the prior year to reach 60,979, the highest quarterly growth rate for this period since 1981. For the first half of 2025, South Korea recorded a 7.4 percent increase in births compared to the same timeframe last year, marking the strongest first-half surge on record. Park Hyun-jeong, an official from Statistics Korea, attributed the positive trend to multiple factors, stating, \"The uptrend was attributable to a continued rise in marriages since the first quarter of last year, an increase in the population of women in their 30s and a more positive perception of childbirth, among other factors.\"

EU Considers Tighter Verification Rules for Imported Gas Amid Russian Phase-Out Plan

The European Union is discussing enhanced verification measures for gas imports to ensure the fuel's country of origin is properly documented, according to a recent draft proposal. This move aligns with the EU’s broader initiative to phase out Russian oil and gas imports by January 1, 2028, following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Verifying gas origins is complex, especially since gas shipments can be blended during transit. The latest draft, circulated ahead of a diplomatic meeting in Brussels, suggests that importers will need to provide detailed proof to national authorities confirming that their gas does not come from Russia. The document states, "For imports of natural gas produced in other countries than Russia, the authorising authorities... shall be provided with evidence to establish the country of production of the natural gas." Notably, this requirement would not apply to gas from countries that have also banned or sanctioned Russian gas. The proposed restrictions specify a phased approach: new contracts involving Russian gas will be banned from January 2026; short-term contracts will end by June 17, 2026; and long-term contracts will be terminated by January 2028. Additionally, importers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments containing mixed origins must document the proportion of Russian gas within these cargos. The draft was prepared by Denmark, which currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency. Denmark has not commented on the proposal. EU member states are expected to finalize a consensus on the position by mid-October, after which negotiations with the European Parliament will proceed to enact the legislation. Last year, Russia supplied approximately 19% of Europe’s gas, mainly through the TurkStream pipeline and LNG shipments. This share is projected to decline to 13% by 2025, a substantial drop from the pre-2022 level of around 45%.

Slater Young Faces Backlash Over Flood Control Partnership with Cebu City

Former Pinoy Big Brother winner, influencer, and engineer Slater Young has come under intense public scrutiny after his reported partnership with the Cebu City Government to address flooding issues. According to a report dated August 26, 2025, Slater was seen meeting with Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival to discuss a "long-term flood control plan under the corporate social responsibility program of a premier residential development located on the hillside of Barangay Guadalupe." Slater currently serves as the Chief Strategic Officer for the developer behind a luxury residential project situated in Cebu City’s mountainous area. \"We can talk in the same language because he’s an engineer. We’re very happy to be a part of that vision of the mayor,\" Slater stated. However, the collaboration sparked widespread criticism online. Many netizens questioned the legitimacy of the initiative, with some accusing the hillside development of contributing to the flooding problem rather than alleviating it. One comment, which garnered nearly 800 reactions, challenged, \"How is he planning flood control when his development is causing the floods in the first place? Make it make sense.\" Another user sarcastically remarked, \"The mountain in Banawa was fragmented and now he wants to help solve the flooding issue.\" Other online users requested Slater to demonstrate his flood control plans through a vlog, stating, \"Please create a vlog explaining how you intend to resolve the flood problem.\" Despite the criticism, there were supporters who commended Slater for his community involvement. One defender said, \"That’s how a PBB winner should be, a committed citizen willing to help the community. Thanks for your willingness to assist the Mayor and the Cebu City Government.\" At the time of this report, the post about the collaboration had amassed over 11,000 reactions and around 1,500 shares on the SunStar Cebu Facebook page, reflecting the high public interest and mixed sentiments surrounding the issue.

Shanghai Residents Seek Relief from Record Heat at Massive Indoor Ski Resort

Amid a sweltering heatwave that has gripped Shanghai, thousands have turned to the Shanghai L+SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort to find respite. This expansive indoor ski park spans 98,000 square meters and maintains a chilling temperature around 5°C (41°F) throughout the year, providing a stark contrast to the nearly 37°C (98.6°F) heat outside. Visitors enjoyed activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights, taking advantage of the cool environment. Ten-year-old Tang Junqi, who visited with her mother, described the experience, stating, \"It was so hot outside and feels like being in a pot. But it feels like in a fridge inside.\" Shanghai recorded its 24th consecutive day of temperatures soaring to 35°C (95°F) or higher in August, equaling a heatwave record dating back to 1926. In response, the city issued an orange alert—the second highest level under its three-tier heatwave warning system—with forecasts indicating the high temperatures will persist for the remainder of the month. Experts attribute the increasing frequency and severity of such extreme weather events to human-induced climate change. Carbon emissions and energy-intensive practices, including efforts to maintain artificially cool indoor environments, are intensifying these conditions worldwide. The prolonged heat and its consequences underscore growing environmental challenges facing urban centers like Shanghai.

First US Case of New World Screwworm Parasite Confirmed in Returning Traveler

The United States has identified its first human case of New World screwworm (NWS) myiasis, a parasitic infestation caused by the larvae of parasitic flies, according to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The infection was detected on August 4 in a patient who had recently traveled from El Salvador, one of the countries affected by the ongoing outbreak. NWS myiasis occurs when the larvae, commonly known as maggots, burrow into living tissue, primarily affecting livestock but occasionally infecting humans—especially those with open wounds or who spend time in rural areas with livestock. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with Maryland’s health department, conducted the investigation into this travel-associated case. HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon emphasized that this is the first human instance linked to the outbreak region confirmed in the United States. Historically, the New World screwworm is found in South America and the Caribbean, and despite efforts to contain it, the infestation has spread across all Central American nations, as well as Mexico and now the US. The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is actively working with agricultural partners, the State Department, and the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization to combat the outbreak. According to APHIS, "When NWS fly larvae (maggots) burrow into the flesh of a living animal, they cause serious, often deadly damage to the animal. NWS can infest livestock, pets, wildlife, occasionally birds, and in rare cases, people." Officials have noted that the public health risk remains very low for those in the US. Nevertheless, the economic threat posed by a screwworm outbreak to the livestock industry is substantial, potentially jeopardizing more than $100 billion in economic activity tied to cattle and other livestock. The CDC advises travelers to affected regions and those living in rural livestock areas to exercise caution, especially if they have open wounds. Continued surveillance and coordinated efforts remain critical to controlling the pest's spread and mitigating its impact on animal health and the economy.

Filipino Celebrities Condemn Alleged Corruption in Flood Control Funds Amid Persistent Flooding

Several well-known Filipino personalities have voiced their indignation over the suspected misappropriation of substantial government funds allocated for flood mitigation efforts, as severe flooding continues to affect Metro Manila and surrounding provinces. Amid knee-deep waters and long traffic delays caused by recent typhoons, figures such as Anne Curtis, Bianca Gonzalez, and Pokwang took to social media to criticize the alleged corruption and ineffective infrastructure projects. Reports have surfaced indicating that construction firms connected to government officials were awarded disproportionately large contracts by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Despite claims that these flood control projects had been completed, the worsening floods suggest otherwise, leading to accusations of "ghost projects" and graft. Anne Curtis shared a poignant message on X (formerly Twitter), quoting broadcaster Jessica Soho: "It is not the floods that will drown our nation, but greed." She expressed deep pain over the situation, emphasizing the detrimental impact of corruption on the country. Gonzalez, reflecting the frustrations of daily commuters, remarked, "After a taxing week, we still spend hours lining up in the rain and facing paralysis from floods and traffic. Billions in taxes have been spent, but where is the efficient transport system? Instead, we get ghost flood projects that fail us." She further condemned those who indulge in extravagant lifestyles while taxpayers bear the brunt of inadequate public services, stating, "Kudos to those who work honorably, but may those who misuse our taxes face justice soon." Comedienne Pokwang echoed these sentiments, highlighting the persistent disruption caused by flawed governance and unfulfilled promises of flood protection. The public's discontent has extended to the families of implicated officials, with some relatives showcasing luxury items and vacations on social media, exacerbating public anger. With heavy rains persisting, citizens continue to question the effectiveness of government spending on flood control since 2019, demanding transparency and accountability to prevent recurring devastation.