The Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP) welcomes the decision of the Department of Education (DepEd) to integrate lessons on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in the Araling Panlipunan curriculum for Grades 4, 6, and 10 beginning School Year 2026. This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring that the Filipino youth are well-informed about our maritime heritage and sovereign rights.

For SCAP and the broader youth and student movement, this development is a milestone in the fight for education that not only safeguards the welfare of students but also strengthens national identity and sovereignty. Embedding lessons on the hard-won 2016 Arbitral Ruling, maritime rights, and the campaign against the disinformation and imperialist agenda of China will help build a generation of Filipinos who understand, value, and are ready to defend what is rightfully ours.

SCAP Secretary-General and ATIN ITO Youth Co-Convenor Matthew Silverio emphasized that the initiative goes beyond classroom learning. “Ang edukasyon tungkol sa West Philippine Sea ay hindi lang aralin sa klase, ito ay aral ng pambansang dangal at kabayanihan ng ating mga manginisda at frontliners. Nananawagan kami sa Kongreso na pagtibayin ito sa batas, ipasa na ang hinihain ng WPS Bloc, upang masiguro na hindi mabubura ng kahit sinong lider o banyaga at imperyalistang impluwensya ang ating kamalayan at paninindigan para sa ating karagatan,” Silverio said.

He also stressed the need to institutionalize the measure through legislation. “We welcome these steps made by our Education Department, pero we emphasize, na kailangan pa ring maisabatas ang West Philippine Sea Education Bill upang matiyak na institutionalized ang pagtuturo nito sa bawat henerasyon ng kabataan.,” he added.

The West Philippine Sea Education Bill was filed last June 2025 by the WPS Bloc led by Akbayan Partylist Representative Chel Diokno and his fellow Akbayan Representatives Rep. Perci Cendaña, Dadah Kiram Ismula, together with Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist Representative Leila de Lima, Dinagat Islands Representative Kaka Bag-ao, and other legislators.

SCAP commits to continue working with educators, policymakers, and civil society groups to ensure that WPS education remains a tool for empowerment, truth, and national pride.

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P15 million per kilometer of “ghost roads?”

Farmers under the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) urged Congress to scrutinize the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) proposed P16-billion budget for Farm-to-Market Roads (FMRs) in 2026, warning that corruption could bloat the already massive backlog of 36,000 kilometers worth P300 billion, leaving the farm-to-market network unfinished “even in a lifetime.” “Kahit habang buhay pa, hindi matatapos ang backlog sa FMRs kung nauuwi sa korapsyon ang pondo, tulad ng nangyayari sa mga flood control projects,” KMP warned.

Based on the DA’s own estimates, each kilometer of FMR costs around P15 million. “DA admits that “Farm-to-Market Roads are supposed to be lifelines for farmers. However, they risk becoming Farm-to-Pocket Roads due to collusion and corruption of agencies, government officials and contractors,” KMP stressed,

As of August 2025, verified but unfunded FMR project proposals already amount to P286.54 billion, or over 20,000 kilometers of unbuilt farm roads. The biggest gaps are in Region 11 (Davao Region) with more than 7,000 kilometers worth P65.5 billion, and Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) with 2,707 kilometers worth P36.5 billion. 

Taun-taun pinopondohan ng bilyon-bilyon pero hindi natatapos, saan napupunta ang pera? Kailangan malaman at maungkat din kung magkano ang SOPs at kickbacks sa Farm-to-Market Roads. Hindi dapat makaligtas ang contractors at mga pulitikong nakikinabang dito,” KMP stressed, urging an immediate probe into these heavily funded infrastructure projects. 

The backlogs are staggering, yet, billions are disproportionately poured into political bailiwicks and often for political patronage: For 2026, Ilocos Norte will corner 30% of Region 1’s P1.1-billion FMR budget, while Leyte takes over more than P300 million from Region 8’s P915-million share.“The government must explain how priorities are being set. Why are political strongholds favored over areas where farmers most urgently need roads?” KMP asked.

DA Secretary Francis Tiu Laurel himself admitted that between 12.7 to 15 percent of local rice production (around 450,000 metric tons) and 30 percent of vegetable production are lost annually due to poor logistics, largely caused by the lack of proper farm roads. “Kung sinasabi ng DA na FMRs ang gulugod ng food security at susi sa pagbaba ng presyo ng pagkain, bakit nila hinahayaan na magpatuloy ang sistema ng korapsyon at kapabayaan?” KMP said.

Farmers said the DA 2026 budget proposal deliberations on Monday must reveal the true status of the National FMR Network Plan 2023–2028, jointly implemented by DA, DPWH, DAR, DTI, DILG, and DOT. They demanded clarity on: how many kilometers have actually been completed, how many projects have been completed and inspected, and whether “ghost roads” exist, similar to ghost flood control projects.

“Every year that the government fails to close this gap on FMRs means more wasted harvests, higher food prices, and deeper poverty in the countryside. Bawat piso para sa FMR dapat napupunta sa kalsada para sa mga magsasaka at hindi sa bulsa ng pulitiko at kontraktor,” KMP declared.

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Thousands of well-wishers from Metro Manila and nearby provinces, including Nueva Ecija and Ilocos Norte, joined the festive Salo-Salo sa Palasyo at the Kalayaan grounds of Malacañang on Friday to extend their birthday greetings to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 

President Marcos, together with First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, joined the jubilant crowd for food, music, and cultural performances in what has become a tradition of opening the Palace to the public for the President’s birthday celebration.

Among those who visited Malacañang was Elza B. Batara, 71, from Ilocos Norte, who wished the President good health and long life, expressing hope that he would continue his good work for the Filipino people.

“Happy birthday, Apo Presidente. Long live, God bless, at always take care. Sana po ay maipagpatuloy niyo pa ang magagandang gawain para sa ating mga kababayan,” Batara said.

Marietta P. Sumagan, 70, from Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City, said she was thankful for being part of the celebration and prayed for more birthdays for the President. She also shared her wish that the President’s programs and reforms will carry on beyond his term.

“Happy birthday. More, more birthdays to come. Sana maipapatuloy lahat-lahat ‘yung mga gusto niyang mangyari sa mga Pilipino. Sana sa 2028, sana magpatuloy sya. Siya pa rin ang presidente natin sa Pilipinas. Maraming salamat sa salo-salo na pina-birthday sa amin ng Presidente BBM,” Sumagan said.

For Teodora C. Nuñez, 65, also from Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City, the event was a meaningful moment to personally greet the Chief Executive. She extended her well-wishes for continued blessings in his leadership.

Traveling from Nueva Ecija, Florencia F. Morales, 79, offered prayers for the President’s health, safety, and guidance in leading the nation, thanking him for inviting ordinary citizens to the Palace on his special day.

“Narito po ako para batiin po siya ng maligayang maligayang kaarawan po, Mr. President. Pagpalain nawa kayo ng Diyos at subaybayan sa lahat ng mga bagay-bagay na gustong ikaloob sa iyong mga mamamayan,” Morales said.

Community leaders around Malacañang also shared in the festivities.

Barangay 829 Chairman Romualdo Billanes expressed happiness that the President remembered their community, saying they felt honored to be part of his celebration.

“Kaming nakapalibot sa Malacañang, bilang chairman ng Barangay 829, ay masayang masaya po kami kasi naalala po kami ng ating Pangulo. More birthdays țo come,” Billanes said.

Kagawad Helen Aguilar of Barangay 829 described the gathering as a blessing for their community, noting that the President’s gesture of sharing his birthday with the public shows his generosity and accessibility. She also encouraged him to stay focused on his work despite criticisms, comparing his leadership to a fruitful tree that naturally draws attention.

“Nakikita naman po natin ginagawa naman ni Presidente ang lahat. Ngayon po siya ang may birthday, siya ang may regalo sa amin. Bibihira po. Ilang presidente na po ang nadaanan namin. Iba po talaga ang panahon ng mga Marcos,” Aguilar said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. was born on September 13, 1957. 

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The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), in partnership with the Social Security System (SSS), led the celebration of National Pensioners’ Day at the GSIS Head Office in Pasay City as part of the week-long National Pensioners’ Week. 

The event pays tribute to the invaluable contributions of the country’s retirees and pensioners while bringing services closer to them.

More than 200 pre-registered pensioners from the Philippine Alliance of Retired Educators (PARE), GSIS Retirees Association Inc. (GRAI), and SSS pensioners joined the day-long program.

The event  featured free medical wellness check-ups, pampering services such as massage and haircut in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), distribution of tokens, awarding of land titles to ten pensioners, and a film screening of “Miss Granny” courtesy of Viva Films. 

The celebration was made even more memorable by a special performance from the country’s “Soul Siren”,  Nina, who serenaded the pensioners with her signature hits, giving the audience a heartwarming musical treat.

In her message, GSIS OfficerinCharge President and General Manager Juliet Bautista honored the nation’s retirees.

“Ang araw na ito ay para sa inyo, ating mahal na pensioners, bilang pagkilala at pasasalamat sa lahat ng taon ng serbisyo at sakripisyo ninyo para sa bayan at sa inyong pamilya,” Bautista said.

She added that recent reforms, such as the removal of the survivorship pension cap, the lifting of the cohabitation rule for survivorship pensioners, more flexible Christmas Cash Gift rules, and online pension applications via GSIS Touch, are all meant to bring ginhawa and security to retirees.

Finance Undersecretary Rolando Tungpalan, speaking on behalf of Secretary Ralph Recto, lauded GSIS and SSS for honoring the country’s pensioners.

“You are not footnotes in our budget books. You are the reason these programs exist,” Tungpalan said. 

Quoting Secretary Recto, he added: “Ito ang patunay ng totoong serbisyong publiko: hindi dagdag abala, kundi dagdag ginhawa. Hindi lumang sistema, kundi makabagong solusyon. Hindi mabagal na proseso, kundi mabilis na aksyon.”

He stressed that the Department of Finance’s role is to ensure that government financial institutions like GSIS remain strong and stable, so that “benefits today must still be benefits tomorrow. Promises must outlast the people who make them.” 

Tungpalan also pointed to the awarding of land titles as proof that government can “deliver dreams” and affirmed that the true measure of a nation lies in how it treats those who have given their best years in service.

For his part, SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph De Claro emphasized the unity of GSIS and SSS in honoring retirees, “This is not a time to compare benefits but to recognize that both GSIS and SSS honor you, our pensioners, as the people who built this nation. Together, our institutions are working to strengthen governance and improve benefits for our members and retirees,” he said. 

Extending the celebration nationwide, Pensioners’ Day activities were held in GSIS branch offices:

• September 10 – GSIS Cabanatuan (North Luzon)
• September 11 – GSIS Laguna (South Luzon)

Pensioners’ Day in two more areas will be conducted on:

• September 12 – GSIS Cebu (Visayas)
• September 12 – GSIS Tagum (Mindanao)

The National Pensioners’ Week is being held to recognize the decades of service rendered by the country’s pensioners and provide a platform to address their concerns, promote financial security, and highlight reforms that strengthen the pension system.

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Despite near-universal access to computers and the internet, Philippine businesses remain slow in adopting artificial intelligence (AI). A new study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) found that only 14.9% of firms use AI tools, with adoption concentrated in large companies in urban centers, particularly in the ICT and BPO sectors.

The study, Readiness for AI Adoption of Philippine Business and Industry: The Government’s Role in Fostering Innovation- and AI-Driven Industrial Development, authored by PIDS Senior Research Fellow Francis Mark A. Quimba, former Supervising Research Specialist Neil Irwin S. Moreno, and former Research Analyst Alliah Mae C. Salazar, highlights a widening gap between basic digital penetration and advanced technology use.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) show that 90.8% of establishments in the country own computers and 81% have internet access, yet AI use across industries remains limited—especially among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Barriers to adoption

The authors identified structural barriers hampering AI uptake, including  weak digital infrastructure, limited awareness of emerging technologies, significant skills gaps, and scarce funding opportunities

“The overall awareness of AI and other Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies remains notably low among Philippine firms, with only about one in five firms being cognizant of these technologies,” they noted.

These challenges are compounded by gaps in human capital. The Philippines lags in ICT proficiency, engineering, and technology education—producing a workforce unprepared for AI-intensive industries.

Geography also widens the divide: while Metro Manila and CALABARZON lead in AI adoption, rural areas are left further behind.

Even basic connectivity is uneven. Although most businesses are equipped with computers, not all are fully online.

Overall AI adoption is just 3% across industries, with ICT and BPO sectors at 6 to 7% and agriculture trailing at 1.5%.

Government response

Government agencies have begun laying the groundwork for AI readiness. The Department of Trade and Industry’s National AI Strategy Roadmap and the planned Center for AI Research (CAIR) aim to position the Philippines as a hub for AI research and innovation.

“The current policy environment in the Philippines strongly supports the promotion of AI use across various sectors,” the authors observed.

However, they noted that many firms, especially MSMEs, remain in the early stages of digital transformation.

The Philippine Development Plan (2023-2028) also stresses the role of emerging technologies, including AI, in revitalizing industry, services, and research.

Translating policies into actual business-level adoption, however, remains a challenge.

Policy directions

The authors stressed that the country must play an enabling role in ensuring AI adoption benefits industries and citizens alike.

“AI has the potential to drive significant economic growth by enhancing productivity, reducing operational costs, and enabling the development of new products and services,” they emphasized.

The study proposes interventions in three domains: market facilitation, capability building, and ecosystem coordination.

“[There is a] need for coordinated action across government agencies, substantial investment in digital infrastructure and education, and the establishment of clear governance frameworks,” the authors explained.

PIDS’ take on AI for DPRM 2025

These findings are timely as the nation observes the 23rd Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) this September, with the theme “Reimagining Governance in the Age of AI.”

The observance aims to highlight how effective governance and sound policy frameworks can harness AI to enhance public administration and promote inclusive development.

As PIDS leads this year’s DPRM celebrations, the insights from this study provide crucial evidence for policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society to shape a future where Filipino businesses and workers can thrive in the age of AI.

Stakeholders and the general public are encouraged to join DPRM 2025 activities and gain insights on leveraging AI for national development.

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CITY OF MALOLOS – Mesmerizing the crowd with his wits and talent, Maloleño jeepney driver Marvin Galang clinched the first-ever Mr. Poging BFJODA title, bested 15 other candidates from different cities and municipalities of Bulacan last Thursday, September 11 at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium here.

Galang expressed his gratitude to the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office (PSWDO), Bulacan Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association (BFJODA), Governor Daniel R. Fernando, and Vice Governor Alexis C. Castro for giving them a platform to share their talent and celebrate their individualities.

“Sa lahat po ng bumubuo ng patimpalak na ito, maraming salamat po lalo na kina Gov. Daniel at Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro, gayundin po kina pangulo at sa PSWDO. Maraming, maraming salamat po sa inyo sa pagbabahagi sa amin ng entablado,” he said.

Galang brought home a cash prize of P20,000 for winning the title, and another P10,000 for being hailed as the Talentadong Tsuper (Best in Talent) following his dazzling singing performance.

Moreover, Lamberto Feliciano of the municipality of Bulakan finished as the first runner-up and took home P14,000, while City of Baliwag’s Arturo Lorenzo ended his campaign as the second runner-up with P10, 000.

Other jeepney drivers and operators who joined the activity were each given a consolation prize of P5,000 and grocery package from the PSWDO.

PSWDO Department Head Rowena J. Tiongson thanked all the candidates for participating in the event.

“No’ng una kaunti lang ang nag-register, kasi baka sobrang pressured sila na kailangan sobrang pogi ang kailangang sumali. Pero kapag pinag-uusapan ang pogi, hindi lang naman ito tumutukoy sa panlabas na kaanyuan. Hindi lang naman ito ‘yung kakisigan ng katawan. Kundi higit sa lahat, ito ay tungkol din sa kagandahan ng kaibuturan ng kaniyang kalooban,” she said.

On the other hand, BFJODA President Ricardo R. Turla extended his appreciation to Tiongson and her department for helping them to carry out the event for the jeepney drivers and operators sector in the province.

“Ako po ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa inyo, lalong lalo na kay Ma’am Weng at sa mga kasama niya sa buong PSWDO. Talagang binubuhos nila ang kanilang sipag kung paano mapapasaya ang BFJODA,” Turla said.

Likewise, Governor Daniel R. Fernando congratulated all the participants and commended them for their talents and their dedication for their service to Bulakenyo commuters.

“Binabati ko kayong lahat na nagsipagwagi at sumali sa patimpalak na ito. Mahuhusay kayong lahat at may angking mga talento, na bukod pa sa inyong serbisyo sa paghahatid sa lahat ng mga Bulakenyong mananakay. Magpatuloy lang kayo sa inyong sipag at tiyaga, mabuhay kayong lahat,” he said.

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Pasay City, Philippines – August 29, 2025 — As SM Supermalls celebrates its 40th anniversary, it clinches four major honors at the prestigious HR Asia Awards 2025, reaffirming its legacy of people-first leadership and transformative workplace culture.

For the third consecutive year, SM Supermalls was named one of HR Asia’s Best Companies to Work For, alongside three standout category wins: the Sustainable Workplace Award, the Most Caring Company Award, and the Tech Empowerment Award.

“These awards are more than milestones—they reflect our enduring culture at SM, where people are at the heart of everything we do,” said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan. “We are proud of our teams whose passion and dedication make SM not only one of the best companies to work for, but a place where we create meaningful impact for our employees, communities, and the country.”

Award Highlights

Best Companies to Work For in Asia (3rd consecutive year)

SM’s workplace culture is anchored on the key messaging pillars of the SM LIFE framework—Purpose, Passion, and Performance. Initiatives such as Leadership Town Halls, Candid Coffee with Leaders, Feedback Fridays, and the Culture Caravan foster authenticity, inclusion, and growth across all levels.

Most Caring Company Award (2nd consecutive year) SM’s 360 Wellness Programs include unlimited online mental health counseling, wellness learning series, and Celebrate YOU events such as PRIDE Month and Women Empowerment. Championing safe and brave spaces for all, programs such as Ethics Beat and Safe Spaces promote transparency, accountability, and DEIB across the organization. Employee engagement programs have a 100% employee reach.

Sustainable Workplace Award

Sustainability is embedded in SM’s DNA. From the Trash to Cash recycling program and Coastal Clean-Up drives to its bold commitment to Net Zero by 2040, SM empowers employees to lead environmental and community efforts through its partnership with SM Cares. Employee volunteerism rises strongly with a 100% increase compared to the previous year.

Tech Empowerment Award

Innovation drives SM’s HR transformation. Tools like the SMILE HCM platform, SAM AI chatbot, DigiU eLearning, and the SM Life app deliver seamless employee experiences. With 90% utilization for the SM Life app and 80% for DigiU learning, digital adoption is high and impactful.

A Legacy of Leadership

Cheryll Ruth L. Agsaoay, Senior Vice President for Human Resources, shared:

“These recognitions affirm our belief that when we design positive employee experiences—caring for people’s wellbeing, embracing innovation, and championing sustainability—we create a workplace that inspires purpose and growth. We see our culture efforts as continuous work-in-progress because at SM, we never stop learning and aiming to be better every day.”

As SM Supermalls enters a new era beyond its 40th year, these accolades underscore a powerful truth: its greatest asset has always been its people—and its future will be shaped by the culture it continuously nurtures.

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CITY OF MALOLOS – OPM sensation Gracenote and rising stars Hey June! are set to ignite the province of Bulacan, headlining the grand Singkaban Festival Concert on September 14, 2025, at the Bulacan Sports Complex here.

Fans will be treated to the bands’ chart-topping anthems, including Gracenote’s “Malalang Nilalang” and Hey June!’s “Lasik.” This high-energy lineup promises to thrill audiences and elevate the festival experience.

The free concert will open its gates at 5:00 PM, welcoming Bulakenyos and festival-goers to an evening of electrifying performances. In addition to the main acts, a showcase of talented local bands will highlight the vibrant musical talent of the province.

To culminate the night, the skies will blaze with the “Pasiklab sa Singkaban” fireworks display—a breathtaking spectacle designed to light up the province in true festival fashion.

Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando extends a warm invitation to all, urging everyone to be part of this unforgettable celebration.

“The Singkaban Festival is the perfect opportunity for Bulakenyos to come together and celebrate the festivity. This concert is a gift to every Bulakenyo,” Fernando said.

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