IN a diplomatic move, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday withdrew his nomination to the Commission on Appointments (CA) to resolve the deadlock over the Senate’s representation in the powerful constitutional body, which confirms or rejects key Presidential appointees.
Cayetano emphasized the need for diverse representation in the CA and proposed his withdrawal as a temporary solution to allow further discussions.
“May I propose this temporary measure just so that we’ll have more time to discuss the representation in the CA and the interpretation of the Supreme Court (cases). May I ask that my name be withdrawn as a nominee for the CA,” the senator, a former diplomat, said during the August 18, 2025 plenary session.
His decision came after a heated debate between Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, who moved to elect 10 Majority senators in the CA, and Senate Minority Leader Vicente Sotto III, who questioned the selection process.
Cayetano’s gesture broke the deadlock, prompting Sotto to withdraw his objection to defer the election of Senate CA members.
This paved the way for the Senate to elect the CA contingent, namely Senators Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, JV Ejercito, Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, Christopher “Bong” Go, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Raffy Tulfo, Joel Villanueva, and Mark Villar. Three more senators from the Minority block will be included in the panel.
Senate President Francis Escudero commended Cayetano and Sotto for the diplomatic compromise.
“We thank Senator Cayetano for his magnanimity and as well as thank the distinguished Minority Floor Leader Sotto for his understanding and patience,” Escudero said.| – Balikas.net
Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land bag 8 top honors at the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, a testament to their mission to deliver integrated solutions that power industries, uplift communities, and drive national progress.|
Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land reaffirmed their leadership in Philippine real estate, earning eight top honors at the 13th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards. These wins celebrate more than design and development excellence—they underscore a shared commitment to delivering purpose-driven solutions that enable industries, create opportunities, and advance nation-building.
Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President and CEO of Aboitiz Land and Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, was honored as the Real Estate Personality of the Year in the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards 2025.
At the forefront of this achievement is Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President and CEO of Aboitiz Land and Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, who was honored as Real Estate Personality of the Year for his transformative leadership. Under his direction, both companies have worked in close synergy to build holistic, future-ready communitiesdesigned to meet the evolving needs of businesses and the Filipino workforce.
Setting The Standard in Industrial Leadership
Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates was once again named Best Industrial Developer in the Philippines—a title it has held for five consecutive years. The distinction reaffirms the company’s strong track record of delivering world-class industrial estates anchored on smart, sustainable development and operational excellence.
In addition to this recognition, AIC Economic Estates earned four more honors:
Best Industrial Developmentfor LIMA Estate, the Philippines’ leading and the largest privately-ledindustrial estate located in Batangas, home to over 185 locators and more than 75,000 employees.
Highly Commended Industrial Developmentfor TARI Estate, a rising PEZA-registered industrial-anchored estate in Tarlac that is poised to drive economic activity and inclusive growth in Central Luzon.
Best Green CBD Developmentfor the Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, Batangas’s first masterplanned business district that brings work, lifestyle, and sustainability together.
The 70-hectare Biz Hub at LIMA Estate, the first Central Business District in the South to earn a prestigious 5-Star BERDE District Certification, showcases how lifestyle, progress, and sustainability can seamlessly come together.
Best BPO Office Developmentfor LIMA Tower One, the first office building in Batangas, set to accelerate the growth of the IT-BPM industry in the province.
Three-time winner as Best Industrial Development, LIMA Estate in Batangas stands as the gold standard of integrated development, driving progress, creating jobs, and enhancing everyday living.
From Batangas to Cebu to Tarlac, AIC Economic Estates continues to be a catalyst for investment, job creation, and regional competitiveness—helping attract global and local companies that contribute to sustained national growth.
Building Communities That Empower and Endure
Aboitiz Land, the residential development arm of the Aboitiz Group, also received two major awards that showcase its commitment to building well-planned, people-centered communities:
Highly Commended CBD Developmentfor The Villages at LIMA Estate, a complete and master-planned residential community designed to support the growing workforce and families within the LIMA Estate ecosystem.
Best Waterfront Housing Developmentfor Seafront Residences, a sustainable beachfront community in San Juan, Batangas that redefines coastal living.
Located in San Juan, Batangas, Seafront Residences offers a master-planned community that lets residents live out the beachfront lifestyles of their dreams, featuring spacious recreational areas and premium amenities.
These projects address the demand for quality, accessible housing within and around economic centers, enabling Filipino workers and their families to live closer to opportunities, reduce commute times, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
One Vision, Shared Impact
These awards reaffirm the shared vision of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land—to create holistic masterplanned communities where industry, commerce, and residential living thrive side-by-side. Together, they build environments where businesses operate with greater efficiency, local talent finds meaningful opportunities, and regional economies grow stronger.
The recognitions also underscore the companies’ role in advancing national priorities—from generating jobs to accelerating growth in key regions, and strengthening the Philippines’ competitiveness as a premier investment destination.
“These recognitions are not just about the projects themselves—they are about the value they create for our locators, residents, and communities,” shared Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President & CEO of Aboitiz Land Inc. and Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates. “Behind each award is a commitment to deliver master-planned estates that drive economic activity, uplift lives, and shape a future worthy of the Philippines.”
As part of the Aboitiz Group’s Great Transformation, Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates and Aboitiz Land remain focused on delivering purposeful, future-forward developments that drive shared progress and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Senator Loren Legarda has mandated drug testing for her staff as a decisive effort to demonstrate accountability and set the highest standards in public service amid recent drug-related allegations involving a Senate employee.
“The public deserves a Senate that sets an example. We act with concrete actions to uphold our role as a model of integrity and professionalism,” Legarda said.
The drug testing will be conducted in coordination with authorized agencies, in full compliance with civil service and health regulations. All staff members are directed to fully comply pursuant to a Memorandum issued on Monday by the four-term Senator.
Legarda emphasized that any findings from the tests will be handled with due process, and appropriate actions will be taken should any staff test positive.
“By taking this step, we ensure that my office has zero tolerance for illegal drugs and is fully committed to good governance and accountability.” Senator Legarda added.
Furthermore, another memorandum outlines the Workplace Policy on Prohibited Substances and Activities, to which staff are reminded to adhere strictly.
The policy strictly prohibits within the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, within any property owned by the Senator, and within the Senate premises: the use, possession or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances, consumption of alcoholic beverages, vaping or use of electronic cigarettes, smoking of any kind and gambling of any form.
“This policy will be strictly enforced to maintain a safe, healthy, and productive workplace environment and to uphold the highest standards of efficiency, integrity, and professionalism in public service.” Senator Legarda concluded Senator Legarda enforces Mandatory Drug Testing for Staff to Uphold Integrity and Professionalism.| – PR
WE have always known how to laugh in the face of hardship. From the streets of Quiapo to small-town plazas, humor has never been just pastime; it has been survival and protest rolled into one. That is why the uproar over Vice Ganda’s “jet ski holiday” skit feels exaggerated—and frankly, ironic. The same crowd that once defended Duterte’s jokes about rape, killings, or threats as “hyperbole” now cries foul when a comedian pokes fun at his broken promises. To laugh at the powerless was fine. To laugh at the powerful suddenly becomes blasphemy.
Satire has always been more than laughter. Scholars like Dieter Declercq remind us that it is both critique and entertainment: it helps us cope with political absurdities without losing our sanity. Our history proves this. Severino Reyes’ sarswelas and Graciano Lopez-Jaena’s satirical essays, mocked Spanish friars; editorial cartoons in the media and campuses, from pre to post martial law years, skewered politicians; and Willie Nepomuceno’s impersonations of presidents and Mr. Shooli’s (Jun Urbano) banters exposed truths we could not always say aloud. The humor softened the sting, but the truth cut deep. Vice’s parody belongs to that same lineage: a modern sarswela staged in Araneta, with pop culture flair as its vehicle.
His “promo” joke was simple but sharp. By turning Duterte’s infamous jet ski promise into a travel ad, Vice distilled years of frustration into one absurd image. It worked because everyone remembered the promise and the later admission that it was just a joke. A parody like this does not invent anything—it only mirrors reality. That some found it offensive shows it hit the mark. Political humor unsettles precisely because it reminds us of contradictions we would rather ignore.
Around the world, satire has always played this role. Londoners once flew the giant “Trump Baby” balloon, and Americans tuned in to Jon Stewart, John Oliver, Stephen Colbert, or Trevor Noah for nightly doses of wit that doubled as critique. Chaplin mocked Hitler in The Great Dictator when most feared confronting fascism. In Eastern Europe, cabarets whispered truths in codes, while cartoons slipped past censors. And before all this, there were Aristophanes, Chaucer, Swift, and Voltaire—writers who proved that laughter could outlast fear. To discredit satire now, simply because it lands on the “wrong side,” is to erase the very history that shaped us.
What makes this controversy disturbing is not the outrage but the hypocrisy. Duterte’s fans once excused his tirades as humor, yet they cannot laugh when humor turns on him. That reveals the real issue: power wants the monopoly on laughter. But satire exists precisely to break that monopoly. As political scientist C. Edwin Baker once noted, free speech is not only about talking; it is about ensuring that public discourse remains open to discomfort. Satire forces that discomfort, whether in classrooms, jeepneys, carinderias, coffee tables, or online feeds.
Of course, satire has limits. A joke will not topple dynasties or rewrite foreign policy. Declercq says satire is less a hammer and more a pressure valve. It keeps people thinking, talking, and even laughing instead of surrendering to despair. During martial law, plays and comics did not end the dictatorship, but they kept the spirit of resistance alive. Today’s memes may not fix governance crises, but they stop citizens from growing numb. For teachers and parents, these little sparks matter, because they keep civic spirit alive in times of fatigue.
Satire also builds solidarity. Laughter creates fleeting moments of shared recognition. When Leila de Lima cheekily posted, “Nothing beats a jet ski good breakfast,” she was not trivializing the West Philippine Sea. She was showing that humor can unite in critique. For a country divided by politics, satire is one of the rare spaces where people from different camps can laugh at the same absurdity, even if only for a moment.
To silence satire would leave society poorer. Imagine Philippine history without biting political comics or the theater lines of Rolando Tinio. Imagine a world without Chaplin mocking tyranny. A society that requires permission slips for every joke about leaders is not only humorless but dangerous. Authoritarian states often begin by choking laughter. Democracies, meanwhile, are noisy, unruly, and funny. Satire is one of the loudest signs that citizens can still laugh without fear.
This is why leaders need humility. Humor only works when people admit imperfection, including their own. A leader who cannot take a joke is too insecure for critique. A community that outlaws satire risks growing arrogant and intolerant. We have long prized humility not as weakness but as wisdom, an acknowledgment that even power can be ridiculous. Humor, at its best, teaches discernment: to see folly without hate, to confront failure without violence.
As Vice Ganda returned to It’s Showtime after the uproar, what mattered most was not the criticisms but the applause. People may disagree on taste, but the right to joke—even at the powerful—is essential to public life. The louder the backlash, the clearer the need for humor that unsettles the comfortable and comforts the unsettled. Democracies breathe through free voices, and satire is one of its most vital breaths.
In the end, this was never just about Vice Ganda. It is about whether we can laugh both ways—up and down the social ladder. If we only laugh when the weak are the punchline, then our democracy is in danger. But if we can laugh at the powerful too, we prove that our freedom is alive. Supporting satire is not just defending a comedian’s joke. It is defending our own ability as a people to laugh, reflect, and demand better.
***
Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.
ANKARA – Plastic waste leakage to the environment in Southeast Asian countries, plus China, Japan, and South Korea, could increase by nearly 70 percent if effective measures are not taken, warned a report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
“Driven by rising incomes and living standards, plastics use in the region is projected to almost double in the absence of more ambitious policies,” the Regional Plastics Outlook report said, comparing the figures to 2022 levels.
The member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are “expected to see a near tripling,” it added.
Plastic waste is projected to more than double, while plastic leakage to the environment is projected to increase by 68 percent, primarily originating from ASEAN lower-middle-income countries and China, the report also said.
Describing the region as a “hotspot for plastic pollution,” it noted that 8.4 million tons of mismanaged plastic waste leaked into the environment in 2022.
Regional plastic waste rose from 10 million tons in 1990 to 113 million tons in 2022, the report also noted.
“Informal and unsafe practices, such as open burning and dumping, persist in most ASEAN countries and China, especially in rural areas,” it added.
Plastic waste is a major environmental issue, polluting rivers and oceans and posing health risks to wildlife and humans as microplastics also enter the body.
The report projects that annual leakage into the environment in the region could reach 14.1 million tons in 2050, of which 5.1 million tons could reach rivers, coastal areas, and oceans.
The countries in the region differ widely in waste management capabilities, with plastic use in 13 countries surging almost ninefold from 17 million tons in 1990 to 152 million tons in 2022.
As over half of the plastic used in the region has a lifespan of less than five years, much of it quickly becomes waste.
Plastic use in the region may drop by 28 percent through ambitious actions, including bans on single-use plastics and taxes, which could also raise the recycling rate to 54 percent, and reduce mismanaged waste by 97 percent, the report also noted.
In a related development, talks for an international legally binding treaty on plastics pollution resumed on Tuesday in Geneva, after the previous talks last year in South Korea collapsed as countries split over measures on plastic output curbs and plastic waste management.| – PNA/Anadolu
US-ASEAN Business Council Delegation and Secretary Frederick Go
(Manila) – The US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) successfully held its 2025 Philippines Business Mission, its annual flagship business-to-government engagement program, from August 11 to 14. With a total of 35 US companies, this marked the largest ever USABC business mission to the Philippines. The mission was co-led by Ambassador Ted Osius (ret.), USABC’s Senior Vice President and Regional Managing Director and USABC’s Philippines Committee Co-Chairs represented by Stephen Braim, Vice President for Government & Regulatory Affairs, Asia Pacific at IBM and Paul Favila, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer at Citi Philippines. This year’s business mission builds on a pivotal moment in U.S.-Philippines relations, marked by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent visit to the White House. The USABC is conducting this event back-to-back with an Aerospace, Defense, and Security (ADS) Mission to the Philippines, from August 14 to 15 also in Metro Manila. This industry mission marks the Council’s largest-ever ADS delegation to the country, with participation from 26 leading U.S. companies across the defense and security sectors. “With close to 60 companies joining this historic back-to-back business missions, the U.S. private sector demonstrates its steady, deep, and enduring commitment to the Philippines as a key partner in the region” said Ambassador Osius. “The U.S.-Philippines relationship is a unique one and our delegation reflects our collective commitment to supporting the Philippines’ long-term economic growth, innovation, and regional competitiveness” he added. The delegation began its mission with a meeting at the Malacañan Palace with Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA) Frederick D. Go, and Secretary of Trade and Industry Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, during which U.S. business executives reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investments and upskilling efforts in the Philippines. Secretary Roque was joined by Trade Undersecretary and Board of Investments Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo and Philippine Economic Zones Authority Director General Tereso Panga. “We are pleased to welcome the record turnout of the US-ASEAN Business Council mission to the Philippines, which affirms the strength of our economic partnership and the confidence of U.S. businesses in the country’s investment climate,” said SAPIEA Secretary Frederick D. Go. “This engagement opens new avenues for strategic public-private partnerships that leverage our countries’ complementary strengths in key industries, such as electronics and semiconductors, food and agriculture, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, and digitalization. We stand ready to assist U.S. companies expand their presence in the Philippines and participate in the country’s promising growth story.” The group then held high-level engagements with senior officials across key government bodies and their attached agencies. Among these government executives included Ambassador MaryKay Carlson from the US Embassy in Manila, Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Babe Romualdez, Agriculture Undersecretary Asis Perez, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Zeno Ronald Abenoja, Budget and Management Undersecretary Margaux Salcedo, Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Jonas Leones, Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Francis Lim, Insurance Commission Chairman Reynaldo Regalado, among others. The delegation likewise met with leaders from the Philippine Congress, led by Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Chairman of the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Constitutional Amendments, and Representative Miro Quimbo of the House Committee on Ways and Means. The delegation was also hosted at a reception at the U.S. Ambassador’s residence, with over 155 leaders from government, business, and diplomatic community in attendance. Guided by the theme “Advancing Inclusive Growth Through Strategic and Resilient Partnerships,” the delegation demonstrated its commitment to supporting the Philippines through public-private collaboration in key areas such as regulatory reform, workforce development, navigating global trade dynamics, and preparations for the country’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2026. “Digital transformation is essential to unlocking the next phase of economic growth in the Philippines” said Mr. Stephen Braim. “IBM is proud to work alongside the Council and the Philippine government to advance initiatives that modernize public services and strengthen the country’s position in an increasingly competitive global economy” he added. “As global connectivity accelerates, Citi is happy to support our colleagues in the Council in facilitating investments into the Philippines,” said Mr. Paul Favila. “This is consistent with our mandate of enabling economic progress that we have been executing for more than a century of doing business and serving our clients in the country” he added. USABC’s Philippines Committee Co-Chairs IBM and Citi, its Vice-Chairs, Coca-Cola, Cargill, and Zuellig Pharma along with 3M, Abbott, Amazon, Anglicotech Philippines, Inc., Astrophysics, Bayer, Bell Textron, Boeing, Chevron, Cisco, Corteva, Equinix, Ford, Jhpiego, Jollibee Group, JP Morgan, Lockheed Martin, Manulife, Mastercard, MSD Animal Health, Netflix, Philip Morris International, Salesforce, TE Connectivity, Texas Instruments, The Asia Group, UltraPass, Visa, and Vriens & Partners participated in the 2025 Philippines Business Mission. | – Balikas.net
DISCLAIMER:This is not a sponsored article. The columnist’s goal is to ‘somehow’ guide consumers’ buying decision to make informed purchasing choices.
“Over 320 branches nationwide and 40 million cups of coffee later, PICKUP COFFEE’s signature green carts and cups are now a familiar sight in key cities. Undoubtedly, the Filipino company has remained committed to achieving its vision of becoming the country’s #1 fast beverage brand — with its 3-year growth unprecedented by any other F&B chain.
Driven by their mission to UPlift everyone with delicious and surprisingly affordable beverages, they continue to serve premium espresso in every cup. Each cup is made with 100% Arabica beans that are freshly pulled per order by trained baristas”.
The above information is an excerpt from the official website of Pick-up coffee. I find it necessary to do a research before making an article about this coffee shop which has been ‘making raves’ in the coffee shop industry nowadays.
The concept came in when I availed Starbucks’ ‘Php125-only’ cold coffee promo every Tuesday (originally ranging from Php175 to 180 for its size). I have already tried Pick-up cold coffee from one of its branches in Fiesta World Mall, Lipa, and from then on, I became curious about this coffee shop. It made me start thinking—could Starbucks be offering this price-off promo because of Pick-Up Coffee’s rising popularity? Can Pick-up Coffee be Starbuck’s worthy opponent?
Let’s compare and contrast Starbucks and Pick-up coffee in terms of business model. Starbucks operates on a business model with the goal of giving the best experience to its patrons thru its modern ambience, and convenient physical evidences and services capes which justify its premium pricing strategy. Its largest coffee size can go as much as Php225 (without customization).
Starbucks sells experience rather than coffee cups either hot or cold, and even pastries. The operational costs is way higher than the food cost, so to speak. I learned that their barista promise is to ‘always make things right’ – that is when customers are not satisfied with their drink, the baristas can have it replaced with the right one.
The business model of Pick-up coffee is completely different from Starbucks. As the brand name implies, customers can actually pick-up their orders from any of its branches using its mobile application. This I think is one of its strongest competitive advantages. No other coffee shops has (if I am not mistaken) this kind of business model and it is proven to be very effective for coffee shops especially to those who are always on the go and in a hurry.
A small space is where the brewing takes place for Pick-up Baristas. No fancy lightings and grand ‘physical evidences’ although some of the branches have small and simple dine-in facilities. But the overall store is a depiction of a business operating in a cost effective manner (at least compared to traditional coffee shops that we know that invests in bigger spaces and internal decorations to project a cozy and modern atmosphere). During my first visit, I saw three to four staffs who were surprisingly able to fulfill the orders of customers in a breeze just like any other coffee shops.
Looks like the simplification and economization of the business model of Pick-up coffee have been carefully studied to fit its overall business strategy. It is evident to their unbelievable price ranges that no other coffee shop offering coffee of the same quality could rival. Some customers label it as a premium coffee already comparable to the taste of coffee from coffee shops offering higher price points. The price range is unbelievably as low as Php50.00 to Php125 for their premium coffee products—more than half the price of other coffee shops.
Not just the price, but [almost] all of the elements of the marketing mix have been carefully stitched together for Pick-up coffee to offer a strong value proposition to customers–the product line up that’s unique and sparks curiosity among coffee lovers and the availability and convenience it offers and the marketing communication part is somehow astounding. Buy one, take one and other sales promotional tactics are also Pick-up coffee’s marketing constants.
Starbucks may currently lead the coffee shop industry catering to the upper ABC market segment. However, as consumers’ disposable income shrinks due to inflation and rising taxes, many may begin seeking more affordable alternatives — such as Pick-up Coffee, which offers comparable coffee quality at significantly lower prices.
While Pick-up Coffee targets a different market segment, it’s undeniable that customer preferences shift over time, especially in response to economic pressures. This means that major coffee chains should take note: Pick-up Coffee is a brand worth watching.
Who’s to say this isn’t just the beginning? In time, Pick-up Coffee might rise to compete directly with industry giants.
THE struggle for a reliable electricity of most energy consumers in towns and cities under the service area of electric cooperatives are not solely anchored on the electricity price war. While it is true that numbers do matter, the solution to the problem is not always reflected on which electricity distribution utility (DU) offers the cheaper electricity based on the face value of their respective electric bills. But, it is the service reliability or the quality of the service itself that matters most.
For a highly-industrialized and thickly populated province like Batangas, the quality of electricity servicing is always trampled at the mercy of both the residents and industries beholden by a legislative franchise or electric coops which are unable to supply what the consumers needed most.
While it is true that in some areas being serviced by electric coops, the electricity rate is lower than in those areas being serviced by Meralco and other private DUs, one can easily compare the quality of service that each DU can offer to its consumers.
Batangas, however, is being serviced by a mix of electric coops and private distribution utilities. The whole of first district (City of Calaca and the towns of Balayan, Calatagan, Lemery, Lian, Nasugbu, Taal and Tuy) parts of third district (Agoncillo, San Nicolas, and Sta. Teresita) are under the legislative franchise of Batangas I Electric Cooperative (Batelec I). Batelec II on the other hand covers Lobo, Mabini, San Luis and Tingloy in the second district; Tanauan City and the towns of Alitagtag, Balete, Cuenca, Malvar, Mataasnakahoy, Laurel and Talisay in the third district; the towns of Padre Garcia, Rosario, San Jose, San Juan, and Taysan in the fourth district and the lone district of Lipa City.
On the other hand, Batangas City, the City of Sto. Tomas, San Pascual are being serviced by Meralco; Bauan is under First Bay Power Corp.; and Ibaan has Ibaan Electric Corp.
Just last week, Manila-based broadsheet Business Mirror run a an editorial that best illuminate issues and concern on electricity rates, giving the public a clearer view on the comparison of rates viz-a-vis service between a private DU and an electric coop. Said editorial read as follows:
-o0o-
“IN recent discussions surrounding electricity rates in the country, Meralco finds itself defending its pricing structure against comparisons with electric cooperatives (ECs). This public discourse has highlighted the complexities of the energy landscape, where the nuances of pricing, service reliability, and energy sourcing are often overshadowed by oversimplified comparisons.
Meralco has reiterated that its rates are subjected to rigorous regulatory scrutiny, resulting in one of the lowest distribution charges nationwide, unchanged for a decade, and falling in the bottom 30 percent among distributors. Its Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC), approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission, is the lowest among private distribution utilities. These facts underscore Meralco’s commitment to offering fair pricing while ensuring a stable, reliable power supply to its over eight million customers.
Unlike many ECs that primarily source cheaper coal power due to limited demand and customer base, Meralco’s power mix includes a significant portion of gas-fired plants—accounting for about half of its supply. This diversification aligns with national policy and helps sustain grid stability, especially given the ongoing coal moratorium and the increasing demand for cleaner, more reliable energy. The company’s procurement strategy supports the government’s broader agenda of transitioning to 50 percent renewable energy by 2040, a goal that would be undermined by calls to revert to more coal reliance or abandon natural gas initiatives.
The focus on rate comparisons alone obscures glaring service deficiencies in many electric cooperatives. Frequent power outages, prolonged blackouts, and poor disaster resilience plague several EC-served areas—from Siquijor’s 10-hour to 20-hour blackouts to La Union’s slow power restoration after storms. The National Electrification Administration (NEA), tasked with overseeing these cooperatives, has been slow to act and has instead engaged in public debates that distract from its core mandate.
Cheaper electricity is a hollow victory if it is accompanied by unreliable service and a lack of infrastructure investment. Consumers deserve not just low rates, but also consistent power, responsive customer service, and resilience in the face of natural disasters—all areas where many ECs currently fall short. Reports from consumer groups like Laban Konsyumer Inc. emphasize this disconnect and call for NEA to shift its focus accordingly.
The NEA’s preoccupation with price comparisons—often framed in selective and misleading ways—does little to address the root problems. Instead, the agency should prioritize facilitating competitive, transparent power procurement processes for ECs, especially encouraging the use of indigenous natural gas as a transition fuel.
NEA should also start holding electric cooperatives accountable for service reliability, system losses, and financial sustainability. It would do well for the agency to accelerate rural electrification efforts in underserved and disaster-prone communities.
NEA should also provide full transparency on the operational and financial health of ECs to the public. The ongoing discourse must move beyond simplistic rate comparisons to a more nuanced understanding of the country’s power landscape. Meralco’s balanced approach, aligned with national policies, demonstrates how affordability and reliability can coexist. The challenges faced by ECs highlight the urgent need for regulatory oversight, infrastructure investment, and operational reforms.
Ultimately, the public deserves a transparent, accountable, and sustainable electricity sector that delivers more than just cheap rates—it must provide consistent power, support economic growth, and contribute to the country’s renewable energy ambitions.
Calls to equate Meralco’s rates with those of ECs without considering the full context risk undermining progress toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future. The NEA must refocus on its core responsibilities and ensure that all Filipinos have access to electricity that is not only affordable but reliable and sustainable.
The debate over electricity pricing should serve to illuminate the path forward, not obscure the critical issues that affect millions of consumers nationwide.|
Read more at www.balikasnews.net, www.kabayannews.net, www.themetrotimes.ph
ENABLING TRANSITION TO CREM. Vantage Energy has powered CVC Asia’s investments in the Visayas region under
the Competitive Retail Electricity Market (CREM). In photo are (L-R) CVC Senior Managing Director and Country Head
of the Philippines Brice Cu, Fast Logistics Chief Executive Officer Manuel Onrejas Jr., Landers Chief Financial Officer
Noel Utanes, Vantage Energy President Ernesto M. Cabral, Vantage Energy Account Officer Ian Dale Ramos, and
Landers Deputy Chief Executive Officer Bill Cummings.|
Vantage Energy, an affiliate retail electricity supplier (RES) of Manila Electric Company (Meralco), has entered into a strategic partnership with CVC Asia to transition key Visayas-based businesses into the Competitive Retail Electricity Market (CREM) to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability across the latter’s portfolio.
CVC Asia, a private equity arm of global private markets manager CVC, continues to expand its presence in the Philippines through key investments in Southeast Asia Retail Inc., which operates Landers Superstore, and FAST Services Corp., a key business unit of FAST Logistics Group.
“This collaboration exemplifies how we engage with our investee companies to unlock meaningful, long-term value. By facilitating access to more sustainable and cost-efficient electricity, we’re driving both operational savings and future resilience. At CVC, this reflects our commitment to investing with purpose, partnership, and performance at the core,” said Brice Cu, Senior Managing Director and Country Head of the Philippines at CVC.
Under the agreements, Landers Bacolod and FAST Services’ cold chain facility in Cebu will both transition to CREM, enabling them to choose their electricity provider under more favorable market conditions. CREM is open to contestable customers with a minimum demand of 500 kW, offering greater flexibility in energy sourcing and pricing.
“At Landers, saving on energy isn’t just a good business – it’s a way to deliver greater value to over two million members. By lowering our operating costs, we’re able to pass on real savings to Filipino families,” said Bill Cummings, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Landers.
Since its launch in 2016, Landers Superstore has established a strong national presence as a membership-only warehouse club, offering a curated mix of international and local products, exclusive member perks, fuel discounts, and competitive pricing in a modern retail environment.
Meanwhile, FAST Services specializes in end-to-end solutions for warehousing, distribution, and transportation—playing a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient movement of goods across the Philippine archipelago.
For Vantage Energy, this collaboration reflects its broader mission of supporting the retail and logistics sectors through customized energy services and forward-thinking solutions.
“This partnership is more than just a business arrangement. It is a strategic alliance grounded in a common vision, one that seeks to redefine how energy is sourced, delivered, and experienced,” Vantage Energy President Ernesto M. Cabral said. “Through your participation in the Customer Choice Programs of the ERC, you are not just optimizing your energy portfolio but also demonstrating leadership in embracing progressive energy models that benefit your organizations and broader community.”
Together, Vantage Energy and CVC Asia aim to set a precedent for how companies can align sustainability and efficiency with long-term business success in the evolving Philippine energy landscape.| – Balikas.net
Executives from Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates and Batangas State University
formalize their partnership to build a new campus within LIMA Estate, set to open in 2026.
Lipa–Malvar, Batangas — Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates and Batangas State University, The National Engineering University (BatStateU The NEU), have formalised a landmark partnership to establish a new integrated campus within LIMA Estate—designed to deliver industry-based learning and develop a future-ready workforce.
Spanning over 1,000 hectares and home to more than 75,000 employees, LIMA Estate is the largest privately owned industrial estate in the country. Through this partnership, students will gain direct exposure to over 185 global and local industry leaders based in the estate—enabling them to bridge academic theory with hands-on, real-world experience.
“This partnership places students at the heart of a thriving ecosystem, equipping them with the technical skills, mindset, and global competitiveness that today’s industries demand. Together with Batangas State University, we are creating a sustainable talent pipeline that supports businesses, empowers communities, and contributes to national development,” said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates.
The campus will operate under a robust learning and development framework anchored on four key pillars: Talent Mapping, Curriculum Co-Development, Industry Simulation, and Workplace Integration. This ensures graduates are aligned with the needs of employers—accelerating hiring, improving retention, and helping bridge talent gaps.
The future Batangas State University campus will bring academic instruction closer to industry, creating a strong foundation for real-world, experience-based learning within LIMA Estate
“Establishing a campus in LIMA Estate is about more than proximity—it’s about relevance. This campus will pioneer a new platform for engineering and technology education in the country. It marks a paradigm shift in how we prepare our youth to contribute to inclusive growth and national development.” said Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President, Batangas State University
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to integrating education into Aboitiz InfraCapital’s estate ecosystem—reinforcing its role as a trusted partner for industrial and regional progress. It also builds on LIMA Estate’s long-standing initiatives in workforce development, which have already connected thousands of Filipinos to meaningful employment opportunities.
Batangas continues to emerge as a key growth engine in Southern Luzon, with LIMA Estate serving as a vital hub for industry, commerce, and innovation. BatStateU’s presence within the estate strengthens its position as a center of opportunity—offering companies access to a skilled workforce while expanding access to quality education for the region.
Batangas State University, recognised as the National Engineering University, serves over 61,000 students across multiple campuses. Its legacy of academic excellence and industry alignment makes it a strategic partner for this transformative initiative.
Through this collaboration, Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates and Batangas State University are shaping not just careers, but the future of Philippine industry..| – Balikas.net
