SM Supermalls Marks 40 Years Highlighting Community and Growth

SM Supermalls recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with a Partners’ Appreciation Night at the Conrad Manila’s Forbes Ballroom, reflecting on its journey from a single mall to a community-centric retail leader. Steven Tan, the company president, expressed gratitude to partners, tenants, and stakeholders, stating, \"We’re not just celebrating 40 years – we’re celebrating with all of you. Maraming salamat.\" Originating in 1985 with the opening of SM North EDSA under Henry Sy’s vision to democratize shopping, SM has expanded to encompass 88 malls nationwide. However, Tan emphasized that SM’s mission extends beyond commerce. \"It’s about being ‘glo-cal,’ blending global retail trends with our unique local culture,\" he explained. Looking ahead, the company plans to launch new developments like SM Zamboanga and undertake revitalization efforts at SM Harrison Plaza, exemplifying this cultural integration model. The event featured lively entertainment led by Kaladkaren, including performances by comedians Gab Pangilinan, Macoy Dubs, Baus Rufo, and Raco Ruiz, as well as surprise guest Atsuko Okatsuka, known for her viral humor and spontaneous audience engagement. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated dinner by Conrad Manila’s China Blue, highlighting dishes such as lobster, roasted duck, BBQ Matsuka pork neck, and a visually stunning coconut mango sphere dessert. Tan reiterated that the celebration was fundamentally about the relationships SM has fostered throughout its existence. \"The milestone is not merely about malls; it’s about the communities we nurture and the connections we build. While we may evolve, our core focus on care and connection remains steadfast,\" he affirmed. SM Supermalls continues to prioritize spaces that encourage community bonding, reinforcing its role as more than just a retail destination but as an integral part of Filipino everyday life.

Foreign Investors Eye Major Return to China Stock Markets Amid Innovation Surge

Foreign investors are preparing to make a substantial comeback to China’s stock markets, three years after largely withdrawing amid concerns over investability. Renewed enthusiasm stems from China’s impressive advancements in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and innovative pharmaceuticals, which have bolstered confidence that ongoing Sino-U.S. trade frictions and technology export restrictions have not stifled the country’s growth potential. The recent U.S.-China tariff truce, coupled with supportive domestic monetary easing measures, has further improved market sentiment. Reflecting this optimism, the Shanghai Composite index recently reached its highest level in a decade, while the Hong Kong stock market recorded a four-year peak. Market experts suggest that foreign investors re-entering China could accelerate the ongoing rally, which has so far been largely driven by domestic participants. Brett Barna, a former hedge fund manager now overseeing two New York-based single-family offices, noted, "China is interesting because it’s very uncorrelated to the rest of the world, at least the onshore A-share market." Barna revealed plans to establish an investment platform facilitating access to China’s markets for U.S. and European investors. Data points to heightened interest: August saw the biggest monthly purchases of Chinese shares by global hedge funds in six months, according to Morgan Stanley. Meanwhile, emerging market funds excluding China experienced a decline in new launches this year, underscoring shifting investor priorities. Zheng Yucheng, chief investment officer of Allianz Global Investors’ China fund unit, emphasized the trend, stating, "A year ago, people wanted to exclude China from indices. Now, China is seen as a standalone asset class they cannot ignore." Additional signs of confidence come from asset management firms like London-based Polar Capital, which transitioned from an underweight to a positive stance on China in late 2024. The firm has since increased China allocations from the low 20% range to over 30% within its emerging markets portfolio. Jerry Wu, Polar Capital’s fund manager, attributed the shift to "a revaluation of Chinese innovative assets," sparked by breakthroughs such as the AI model developed by DeepSeek. Investment interest is also evident in client demand and planned visits. Benjamin Low from Cambridge Associates reported a surge in inquiries for China-focused funds, with many international investors scheduling trips to China and Hong Kong for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these positive signals, challenges remain. China’s broader economy continues to face headwinds, with recent data showing subdued factory output and retail sales. Foreign direct investment in the first five months of 2025 declined by 13.2%, prompting new government measures to stimulate inward investment. Alexander Redman, chief equity strategist at CLSA, highlighted ongoing deflationary pressures as a reason for cautious positioning, while Wu from Polar Capital stressed that the AI-driven market rally will need to translate into wider economic gains to sustain momentum beyond 2025. Cheng Yu, portfolio manager at Allianz’s China fund unit, characterized the current environment as a "rerating" phase, with foreign capital on the sidelines weighing China’s long-term competitive strengths. "Foreign capital is standing at the door and watching. They haven’t stepped in yet — but are at least thinking about coming back," he said. As global investors reassess China’s prospects, the $19 trillion market, including Hong Kong, looks poised for renewed international participation in the near future. ($1 = 7.1232 Chinese yuan renminbi)

Negros Occidental Junior PGT Championship Kicks Off with Standout Performances Amid Challenging Conditions

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL — The Negros Occidental Junior PGT Championship commenced on Monday at the demanding Marapara Golf Course, highlighted by impressive displays from Ethan Lago and Denise Mendoza in the 7-10 age group, as well as contrasting efforts by siblings Rafella and Ralph Batican in the 11-14 division. Despite a rain-softened course and the added pressure of unfamiliar terrain, promising young players from Cebu and Davao quickly asserted their presence, challenging local competitors and intensifying the battle for spots in the eagerly awaited North vs South Finals. Ethan Lago, the reigning Mactan leg champion and an eight-year-old standout from Ateneo de Davao, showcased remarkable composure, carding an even-par 70 which included three birdies and three bogeys. His steady performance and successful long putts earned him a dominant nine-stroke advantage over fellow Davaoeño Lucas Revilleza, who scored 79 in the boys' 7-10 division. "I sank some very long putts," Lago shared, displaying maturity beyond his years. Looking forward, he stated, "I’m aiming to shoot even par and just keep playing my game" in the final round of this 36-hole event. Other notable participants included James Rolida from Cagayan de Oro (83), along with Shaqeeq Tanog (87), Cebu’s Darren Ong (95), and Tobias Tiongko (96), who faced challenges due to hot and humid conditions. In the girls' 7-10 category, Cebu’s Denise Mendoza overcame a turbulent start to fire a 72, creating a substantial 16-stroke lead over Bacolod’s Ana Marie Aguilar (88), with Talisay’s Faith Reosura in third after shooting 90. Mendoza, a 10-year-old from Cebu Learning Center, attributed her success to powerful, accurate drives despite difficulties on the greens. "My game was okay, but I hit some bad shots," Mendoza admitted. "I really need to work on my putting. I missed a lot of makeable putts during the first 18 holes." Currently tied for third in the season rankings and aiming for her third Junior PGT title, Mendoza emphasized the importance of every stroke as only the top four players per division will move on to the Ryder Cup-style finals scheduled from September 30 to October 3 at The Country Club in Laguna. In the boys’ 11-14 division, Ralph Batican of Bukidnon delivered the day's best round, a one-under 69, featuring five birdies alongside a double bogey and two bogeys. His performance granted him a commanding 19-shot lead over Bacolod’s Isaac Locsin (88), with Cebu’s Miguel Mesina (91), Bacolod’s Rafael Alvarez (93), and JM Sabroso (98) completing the leaderboard. Reflecting on his game, Batican remarked, "I just need to stay focused, visualize my shots, and make solid putts." With qualification dependent on competing in at least three tournaments, he recognizes the necessity of strong finishes here and at the upcoming Binitin leg. Meanwhile, his sister Rafella rebounded from a difficult mid-round stretch to record a 73, claiming the lead in the girls’ 11-14 division. Cebu’s Zuri Bagaloyos followed three strokes behind with 76, while Andrea Borromeo and Bacolod’s Chelsea Ogborne each scored 80. The 11-year-old Montessori student started brightly with a birdie on the second hole but faltered with four bogeys in her final 11 holes. She stressed the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, stating, "Just stay positive and don’t let bad shots affect your mindset." A key moment was her long putt for par on the 17th hole, demonstrating her resilience. Currently positioned outside qualifying spots — Ralph at eighth and Rafella at tenth — the Batican siblings face pressure to perform well in the remaining legs. In the boys’ 15-18 bracket, local favorite John Paul Oro carried Bacolod’s hopes with a solid even-par 70, balancing two birdies and two bogeys to lead by five strokes over grand finalist and Bukidnon’s Alexis Nailga (75). Bacolod’s Azie Acuña IV, Zamboanga’s Mhark Fernando III, and John Rey Oro shared third place with scores of 76 in this 54-hole tournament organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. Sixteen-year-old Tashanah Balangauan, representing Cebu and training at Alta Vista and Cebu Country Club, made notable shots on Marapara’s par-3 holes. She birdied the eighth hole with a well-executed rescue 5-wood near the pin and again struck a 3-wood tee shot within fifteen feet at the sixteenth, both set up for confident putts. Despite a triple bogey on the par-4 fifteenth due to misjudged bunker shots and disrupted tempo, Balangauan remained undeterred, emphasizing the course’s length and difficulty. She noted, "It’s a challenging course – much longer than what I’m used to. Staying in the fairway and being accurate are key."

EastWest Secures Dual Honors at 2025 IABC Philippines Quill Awards

Team EastWest proudly celebrates a distinguished achievement after clinching two awards at the 2025 IABC Philippines Quill Awards. Both EastWest Banking Corporation (EastWest) and EastWest Ageas Insurance (EWA) were recognized for their exceptional communication initiatives. EastWest Unibank earned acclaim for its 30th anniversary campaign, "Further for You," a year-long tribute marking three decades of trust, innovation, and seamless banking experience. The campaign featured a distinctive yin-yang anniversary logo and brand ambassadors Donny Pangilinan and Carlos Yulo. It combined meaningful customer interactions, exclusive events, and digital innovations such as the EasyWay App, reflecting the Bank’s dedication to merging Eastern values of personal relationships with Western technological advancements. This approach reaffirms EastWest’s mission to offer banking that is easier, more personalized, and impactful. On the other hand, EastWest Ageas Insurance was honored for its internal campaign titled "LOVE PURPLE: Uniting Employees with One Goal, One Color, One Purpose." The initiative brought to life EWA’s rejuvenated brand philosophy, "What’s Your PURPLE?", fostering vibrant employee participation through customized merchandise and events like music festivals. This campaign inspired employees, known as Stewards, to embrace their identity and passionately fulfill the company’s mission to serve customers with authenticity. Norman Martin C. Reyes, EastWest Head of Marketing, emphasized the significance of the recognition, stating, \"At its core, this double win is about people—customers who inspire us, and employees who live our purpose. Both wins show that customer experience begins with engaged people who believe in the brand.\" The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines organizes the Quill Awards to honor exceptional communication efforts that generate significant business value. With thousands of submissions annually, only select campaigns attain this distinguished accolade. This dual victory underscores EastWest’s capacity to blend warm, customer-centric service with innovative practices. Centered on its customers and empowered workforce, the Bank continues to build experiences that cultivate trust, deepen relationships, and deliver enduring impact—true to its promise to go Further for You.

DPWH Dismisses Three Officials Over Corrupt Flood Control Projects in Bulacan

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has officially dismissed three officials from its Bulacan First District Engineering Office after finding them guilty of serious administrative violations linked to questionable flood control projects. In a decision dated September 15 and signed by DPWH Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon, former Assistant District Engineer Brice Ericson D. Hernandez, Construction Division Chief Jaypee D. Mendoza, and Accountant Juanito C. Mendoza were removed from service. Alongside their dismissal, the officials face a permanent ban from holding public office, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and cancellation of their civil service eligibility. The charges against them include disloyalty to the Republic of the Philippines and its citizens, grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, and conduct prejudicial to the service’s best interests. The department emphasized that this penalty does not preclude the filing of separate civil or criminal charges. University of the Philippines Diliman political analyst Danilo A. Arao described the dismissals as “a step in the right direction,” but stressed the need for a comprehensive investigation covering other agencies involved in public spending and oversight, such as the Commission on Audit, Department of Budget and Management, Congress, and Malacañang. Mr. Arao remarked, "The implicated private contractors and DPWH officers are likely just the surface of a larger issue." Meanwhile, UP Diliman associate professor Perlita M. Frago cautioned that removing individuals alone will not address entrenched corruption. She stressed the importance of establishing safeguards at all levels to prevent recurrence and increasing transparency throughout the process. "Excluding politicians and elected officials from decision-making is critical; if they remain involved, strict measures such as permanent disqualification from public office should act as deterrents," Frago added. In a similar tone, Ken Abante, co-convener of the People’s Budget Coalition, called for accountability beyond the dismissed officials, urging the government to pursue the key figures orchestrating the flood control scandal. This development highlights ongoing challenges within infrastructure governance and underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to uphold integrity and public trust.

Grab Launches Grab Asenso to Empower MSMEs in Digital Transformation Nationwide

Grab Philippines has formally unveiled Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program, an initiative aimed at accelerating the digital adoption of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) throughout the country beyond Metro Manila. The program integrates a multi-city Learning Caravan with new mobile-first merchant tools accessible through the GrabMerchant app, providing business owners with practical skills and digital infrastructure to enhance their online presence. MSMEs play a crucial role in the Philippine economy, comprising 99.59% of all establishments and generating approximately 65% of employment. Despite this, many businesses remain in the early stages of their digital journey. With 2024 seeing 57.4% of retail payments by volume and 59% by value conducted digitally—driven largely by QR PH and instant fund transfers—the need for digital readiness among merchants has become critical for inclusive economic growth. The program’s inaugural event took place in Angeles City, featuring collaboration with the local government, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Regional Office, and the merchant community. Plans are underway to extend the initiative to other key cities including Cavite, Baguio, Bohol, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Cagayan de Oro in the coming months. CJ Lacsican, Grab Philippines Vice-President for Cities, emphasized the program’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs. He stated, \"Progress happens when every entrepreneur, regardless of business size, can fully participate in the digital economy. Grab Asenso goes beyond seminars. We pair hands-on, mobile-based learning with ready-to-use tools — marketing, payments, logistics, and an AI-copilot — so MSMEs can find consumers, run leaner operations, and scale their business faster. When small businesses thrive, supply chains strengthen, jobs multiply, and local economies become more vibrant and more resilient.\" The program enjoys strong support from the DICT, with the agency’s Director of the ICT Industry Development Bureau, Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin, highlighting its alignment with the national digital livelihood agenda. She remarked, \"The Department of Information and Communications Technology is deeply honored and excited to be a part of the Grab Asenso Learning Caravan. This initiative is more than just an event; it’s a testament to our shared belief in the power of digital technology to transform lives and build a brighter future for the Philippines. Grab Asenso is a powerful display of digital bayanihan — a modern-day take on our cherished tradition of community cooperation.\" Grab Asenso uniquely blends three crucial elements: skills development, access to digital tools, and exposure to consumer demand. Its Learning Caravan is designed for smartphones, delivering concise modules on mobile-first digital marketing; basic AI applications for business content creation and customer insights; and financial growth planning to help entrepreneurs manage their cash flow and operational targets effectively. Addressing a significant adoption gap, the program targets the 77% of Filipino MSMEs interested in using more digital tools, of which only 16% currently do, mainly due to skill shortages and perceived complexity. The program’s embedded tools include: - **Payment Solutions**: \"Tap & Scan To Pay\" transforms any NFC-enabled Android device into a payment terminal accepting tap-to-pay cards and QR PH payments, featuring quick setup, competitive fees, streamlined payouts, and reconciliation reports. Participating merchants are also covered by Income Protection Coverage to safeguard daily revenues against disaster-related disruptions. This technology's first pilot rollout will begin in Angeles City in the fourth quarter of 2025. - **Grab Merchant AI Assistant (BETA)**: An integrated AI copilot that offers actionable suggestions, customer trend insights, and supports multiple languages to ease usage. These innovations aim to reduce barriers for entrepreneurs operating on thin margins and enable faster engagement with Grab’s extensive user base. Grab Asenso represents a landmark public-private partnership that supports the government’s vision for inclusive digital entrepreneurship. CJ Lacsican noted, \"Grab Asenso solidifies our covenant with government and communities: that progress in the digital economy must be shared, inclusive, and within reach of every entrepreneur, in every city.\" As the Philippines continues its transition toward a cash-lite economy, initiatives like Grab Asenso are vital in equipping MSMEs with the skills and tools necessary to thrive in the digital era, thus fueling stronger local economies and sustainable growth.

Australian Fugitive Arrested in Makati for Money Laundering and Drug Trafficking Charges

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Thursday, September 18, the arrest of Dayle Marc George Campbell, a 33-year-old Australian fugitive, in Makati City. Campbell was detained on September 16 by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit in cooperation with the Makati City Police. Authorities revealed that Campbell had been using multiple false identities, including the names "Dion Munro" and "Daniel John," and had claimed citizenship in both Seychelles and Australia. Records show that he entered the Philippines on February 22, 2020, using an Australian passport, after previously traveling with a Seychelles passport. Since his arrival, he failed to apply for a visa extension, resulting in an overstay. The BI also disclosed that intelligence linked Campbell to illegal drug activities. Information from the Australian Embassy indicates that Campbell was implicated in a violation of Republic Act 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, related to a 2021 incident involving his live-in partner. Further reports noted his possession of unlicensed firearms. Additionally, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) confirmed that Campbell is under investigation for money laundering and narcotics trafficking. He is reportedly affiliated with an outlaw motorcycle gang and was found to be using forged US driver’s licenses under his aliases. The Bureau of Immigration emphasized its commitment to apprehending fugitives and enforcing immigration laws to ensure public safety.

Manobo Nito Weavers Unveil Monumental Tinayok Rockets at Mindanao Art 2025

At Mindanao Art 2025 held at SM Lanang, Davao City, the Manobo Nito Weavers of Marabatuan, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, unveiled two impressive rocket sculptures named Tinayok. Standing eight and ten feet tall, these creations are woven from nito (Lygodium circinnatum), rattan, bamboo, and steel, combining contemporary artistic vision with deep cultural heritage. The Tinayok rockets draw inspiration from Manobo folklore, specifically the myth of a flying vessel that carries the hero Lumabot and his people to the divine realm. By manifesting these stories into tangible sculptures, the weavers bridge ancestral narratives with modern artistry. Leading the project was Bae Gemma Diems Medel, supported by master weavers including Jackson Diems Medel, Elen Lalo, Sina Dawa, Welma Banay, and others. This effort extends the legacy of their prior acclaimed work, "Ahungan sa Panaghiusa," displayed at the National Museum of the Philippines in Davao. Central to the sculptures is the uso of nito, a climbing fern native to Philippine forests, renowned for its flexibility, strength, and lustrous finish. Traditionally used for baskets, mats, and ritual objects, nito is here transformed into monumental art that carries both durability and deep cultural symbolism. The Tinayok also engages in a creative dialogue with the renowned Mindanao artist Kublai Millan, whose recurring rocket imagery symbolizes ambition and progress. Karlo Antonio Galay David, cultural heritage consultant and curator of the Davao Occidental booth, explained that Millan’s work inspired the community to reconnect with their mythology, leading to the revival of the Tinayok legend. To ensure cultural authenticity, Bae Gemma consulted Manobo elders Umla and Esus Lalo, anchoring the project firmly in oral tradition. The resulting sculptures serve not only as artistic masterpieces but as vessels for cultural preservation, linking elders with the younger generation, and legend with material form. The exhibition of Tinayok rockets at Mindanao Art 2025 symbolizes the enduring craftsmanship and resilient spirit of the Manobo people—reaching toward the future while honoring their profound ancestral stories. Through the interplay of nito’s natural strength and oral heritage, the weavers communicate that cultural identity remains a dynamic, living practice continually woven into contemporary life.

Greece Halts Extradition of Moldovan Businessman Vladimir Plahotniuc Amid Multiple Investigations

Greece has put on hold the extradition of Vladimir Plahotniuc, a former Moldovan politician and businessman wanted by authorities in Moldova in connection with one of the region's largest fraud cases, according to a Moldovan prosecutor and a Greek legal official on Wednesday. A Greek court had previously approved Plahotniuc's extradition over allegations tied to a 2014 financial scandal often referred to as "theft of the century," which involves the disappearance of approximately $1 billion from Moldova's banking system — a sum equal to roughly 12% of the country’s GDP at that time. This ruling was scheduled to be executed shortly before Moldova's general election on September 28. However, the Moldovan Prosecutor General's Office announced that the extradition process has been suspended without an official explanation, notifying Moldovan officials through Interpol. Plahotniuc, 59, who has consistently denied any misconduct, faces a spectrum of accusations including participation in a criminal organization, money laundering, bribery, and fraud. Additionally, Russian authorities have sought his extradition on separate drug-related charges. A Greek judicial source, speaking anonymously, revealed that the Greek Ministry of Justice suspended the extradition due to ongoing investigations involving Plahotniuc in Romania, where he is being probed for forgery. Moreover, Greek prosecutors have requested that Plahotniuc provide clarifications regarding this case. Plahotniuc was detained on July 21 at Athens International Airport while attempting to board a flight to Dubai. The arrest followed an Interpol notice issued earlier in the year, which noted that he possessed multiple passports, including those from Romania, Mexico, and Russia. Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean responded firmly on social media, emphasizing the importance of justice: "We – the citizens of this country – must ensure that everyone is brought to justice and that this process is not stopped. The institutions must bring him home in handcuffs." He also assured that the government would scrutinize the decision to suspend the extradition. In recent statements, Plahotniuc labeled the charges against him as politically motivated, describing them as the product of "slander and political hatred." Prior to fleeing Moldova, Plahotniuc served as leader of the Democratic Party from 2016 until 2019 and was part of the ruling coalition during that period. Moldova continues to pursue integration with the European Union, targeting membership by 2030.

YouTube Marks 20 Years with AI-Powered Vision to Outpace Disney in Media Revenue

YouTube, celebrating its 20th birthday, has evolved significantly from its early days as a platform for amateur video sharing. Now serving 2.7 billion users worldwide, including high-profile personalities like British singer Dua Lipa, the platform has grown to become the preferred means for Americans to consume television content. Projections suggest that YouTube will surpass media giant Disney in revenue this year. At its annual Made on YouTube event, executives outlined the company's strategy to remain a dominant player in media through harnessing artificial intelligence. Owned by Alphabet's Google, YouTube emphasized its commitment to empowering creators, offering them freedom from traditional media constraints by equipping them with a suite of AI-powered production tools. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan addressed concerns surrounding AI's impact on creative jobs, stating, \"These are tools, and really just that. Make no mistake: no studio, network, tech company, or AI tool will own the future of entertainment.\" He portrayed content creation on YouTube as a \"viable, respectable and sustainable career path\" that will only grow as AI becomes further integrated over the next two decades. Backed by Google's substantial resources and AI expertise, YouTube has expanded its lead in viewership over Disney. As per Nielsen data, YouTube captured 13.4% of U.S. viewership in July 2024, compared to Disney's 9.4%. Analysts forecast that YouTube's revenue this year will outpace Disney's approximately $60 billion media revenue reported last year. Although Alphabet does not disclose detailed YouTube earnings frequently, it confirmed that combined advertising and subscription revenue for YouTube exceeded $50 billion over the last four quarters ending September 2024. The event highlighted over 30 new AI-driven tools designed to enhance or automate video production. These include features that embed shopping links into videos, quickly assemble initial video cuts from multiple clips, generate videos from audio-only podcasts, and convert speech to song. Artists and creators like Dua Lipa, Mark Rober, Smosh, and Brandon B, all with subscriber counts surpassing 16 million, participated in showcasing these innovations. Lipa acknowledged YouTube's role in deepening fan connections. Meanwhile, some creators have reinvested their earnings into sophisticated production setups comparable to Hollywood studios. YouTube has remunerated creators with more than $100 billion over the past four years. Amjad Hanif, YouTube's vice president of creator products, mentioned that the rapid development of new features is partly driven by the company's own employees utilizing AI to accelerate idea generation. YouTube's transformative journey reflects its ambition to lead the future of entertainment by blending creator empowerment with technological innovation.