QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Social Security System (SSS) announced that members affected by Tropical Storm Maymay and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) may avail themselves of the existing Emergency Loan Program (ELP) to help address their financial needs arising from the calamity. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. de Claro said the ELP remains available to qualified members nationwide and serves as a readily accessible source of financial assistance for those experiencing financial hardship due to calamities and other emergency situations. “The ELP is part of SSS’ continuing commitment to provide immediate financial relief to members affected by unforeseen events. Through the ELP, qualified members affected by Tropical Storm Maymay and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon may access much-needed financial assistance under more flexible eligibility requirements,” de Claro said. “Under the ELP, which has been in effect since 01 May 2026, the required number of monthly contributions has been reduced from 36 to 18, provided that the member has at least six posted contributions in the last 12 months,” de Claro said. He added that self-employed, voluntary, non-working spouse, and land-based Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) members must have at least six-monthly contributions under their current membership type before the month of loan application. Other eligibility requirements are as follows: Under 65 years old at the time of loan application; Have a valid Philippine home address on SSS records; Have an updated contact information in the SSS database; Have no past-due emergency, calamity, salary, Educational Assistance Loan, or other short-term or long-term member loans; Have no outstanding restructured loan; Have not been disqualified due to fraud committed against the SSS; Have not been granted any final benefit like retirement or permanent total disability benefits; and Have an active disbursement account enrolled through the Disbursement Account Enrollment Module (DAEM) in the My.SSS Portal. Qualified members may borrow up to ₱20,000 at an interest rate as low as 7% per annum. The loan is payable over 30 months, inclusive of a six-month moratorium period. “Members are not required to make monthly amortization payments during the first six months from the date of loan approval. No penalties will be imposed during this period. Regular monthly amortization payments will begin in the seventh month,” de Claro explained. De Claro added that members affected by the tropical cyclone may also apply for an SSS salary loan at the same time, subject to the eligibility requirements.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Social Security System (SSS) announced today its plan to expand its investment portfolio in foreign markets while continuing to actively participate in the domestic capital markets, as part of its strategy to diversify assets, enhance returns, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the pension fund. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. de Claro said the SSS’ improved financial position provides greater capacity to pursue investment opportunities while continuing to contribute to nation-building through investments in the domestic market. “We are very conservative, but at the same time, we are also in a very good position now because of our surplus, that for the first time, we have an opportunity to help in nation-building,” de Claro said. As of 30 June 2026, SSS had ₱1.27 trillion in consolidated investments, distributed across various asset classes in the domestic market. These include ₱629.05 billion in government securities, ₱179.44 billion in equities, ₱154.56 billion in property, ₱151.90 billion in member loans, and ₱96.34 billion in corporate notes and bonds, among others. The diversified portfolio generated ₱27.16 billion in actual investment income as of 30 June 2026, equivalent to an annualized return on investment of 4.53 percent. The figures exclude realized gains from the sale of equity securities classified as fair value through other comprehensive income (FVTOCI). SSS remains an active institutional investor in the Philippine capital market through investments in equities, government securities, and other financial instruments allowed under its investment policies. Its exploration of international investments is intended to complement, not replace, its existing domestic investments, providing greater diversification across markets and asset classes. The planned overseas expansion will allow SSS to explore additional investment opportunities while maintaining its role in supporting the local capital market. He emphasized that exploring overseas investments does not mean reducing SSS’ participation in the Philippine market. Rather, the initiative is intended to complement its existing domestic investments by providing greater diversification across markets and asset classes. SSS aims to grow its reserve fund to ₱2 trillion by 2030, supporting its capacity to provide meaningful and sustainable social security protection to current and future generations of members and pensioners.

MAKATI CITY, Philippines — PNB Makati Center is set to welcome Salady Philippines, bringing Korea’s biggest salad chain to the heart of Makati’s business district and further strengthening the property’s evolving dining and retail offerings. Through its Philippine master franchisee, Palette Passion Inc., Salady has begun expanding its footprint in the country following the brand’s success in South Korea. Known for its menu of fresh salads, grain bowls, wraps, and protein-rich meals, they have built a loyal following by making healthy eating accessible, convenient, and affordable for everyday consumers. For PHC, the arrival of Salady reflects the changing role of commercial developments in business districts. As consumer preferences continue to shift, office properties are increasingly becoming destinations that blend work, lifestyle, convenience, and community. Salady’s entry to PNB Makati Center’s introduces a globally inspired dining concept that aligns with the growing demand for healthier food choices among urban professionals. Its presence is expected to appeal to office workers, nearby residents, and visitors seeking fresh and convenient meal options in Makati’s central business district. The Korean salad chain is among the new dining concepts expected to join PNB Makati Center in the coming months, gradually transforming the property into a vibrant food block in the heart of Makati’s central business district. It is set to open later this year on the Ground Floor of PNB Makati Center along Ayala Avenue, becoming the brand’s first branch in Makati and its first location within an office development in the Philippines.        

The Bureau of Customs (BOC), the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group arrested four (4) arriving passengers found carrying approximately 41,851 grams of marijuana with an estimated value of over ₱62 million during a joint anti-drug interdiction operation at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. The passengers arrived from Bangkok, Thailand on 30 July 2026, during routine baggage screening, personnel from the X-Ray Inspection Project (XIP) flagged their luggage after suspicious images indicated the possible presence of prohibited substances. In accordance with established Customs procedures, the passengers were referred for a thorough physical examination of their baggage. A K9 inspection conducted by the PDEA further indicated the possible presence of dangerous drugs. A subsequent 100% examination resulted in the discovery of approximately 41,851 grams of suspected marijuana concealed inside the passengers’ baggage. The seized illegal drugs have an estimated street value of ₱62,776,500. The operation was conducted through the coordinated efforts of the BOC, Enforcement and Security Service–Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force (ESS-CAIDTF), NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), X-Ray Inspection Project (XIP), PDEA, and Bureau of Immigration. The entire operation was documented with Body-Worn Cameras (BWCs) to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with procedures. The four passengers were arrested and turned over to PDEA for the filing of appropriate charges for violation of Section 4 (Importation of Dangerous Drugs) of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, in relation to Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). District Collector Atty. Maria Yasmin M. Obillos-Mapa lauded the coordinated efforts of the operating units and partner law enforcement agencies, emphasizing that the successful apprehension demonstrates the Port of NAIA’s heightened vigilance in detecting and intercepting illegal drugs. She reaffirmed the Port’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the country’s premier international gateway through the strict enforcement of customs laws. In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border security and intensify the campaign against illegal drugs, she sustained collaboration with partner agencies in securing the country’s borders. Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno commended the successful operation, saying, “Hindi tayo titigil sa pagbabantay sa ating mga airports. Patuloy nating palalakasin ang intelligence operations, paggamit ng makabagong teknolohiya, at pakikipagtulungan sa ating mga partner agencies upang matiyak na walang iligal na droga ang makakalusot at malalagay sa panganib ang ating mga kababayan.”

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued the implementing guidelines for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program (BBMP), laying the groundwork for the nationwide rollout of an initiative that will strengthen grassroots governance, support deserving college students, and help address priority development needs in more than 42,000 barangays across the country. Through DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-038, the Department outlined the implementation of the program, under which each barangay nationwide will receive Php 200,000 from the Office of the President through the Socio-Civic Projects Funds (SCPF) Project. The BBMP seeks to empower local government units (LGUs), reinforce effective barangay governance, and expand opportunities for young Filipinos to complete their education while enabling communities to respond to their immediate development priorities. Of the Php 200,000 allocation, Php 100,000 shall be dedicated to the Bagong Pilipinas Barangay Scholars Program, through which each barangay will select five incoming fourth-year college students for School Year 2026–2027 to receive a Php 20,000 “Finisher Fund” to help cover essential academic expenses and complete their college education. According to the guidelines, beneficiaries must be bona fide residents of the concerned barangay and belong to vulnerable households that are at risk of dropping out of school. Preference shall be given to students whose families have no member who has completed tertiary education. Barangays may also prescribe additional eligibility criteria, provided these are properly documented and implemented in a just, fair, and transparent manner. Meanwhile, the remaining Php 100,000 shall be allocated for the Assistance for the Barangay component, which will support development priorities identified by barangays based on their immediate operational and community needs. Eligible interventions include the procurement of public service equipment, administrative and office equipment, streetlighting facilities, and disaster risk reduction and management equipment, among others. Barangays may augment the allocation using their own local funds to complete identified development priorities. However, the guidelines provide that the assistance shall not be used for infrastructure projects, honoraria, salaries, wages, or other similar personnel-related expenditures. The DILG said the issuance of the guidelines ensures the transparent, accountable, and efficient implementation of the BBMP, allowing barangays to invest in both human capital and community development while advancing the Bagong Pilipinas vision of bringing meaningful government assistance closer to every Filipino.

Highlights: Net income reflects the continued strength and resilience of BDO’s core businesses. Loan portfolio grew 15% on broad-based growth across all segments, outpacing industry growth. Pre-provision operating profit increased 12%, supported by robust lending activity and disciplined cost management. Asset quality improved, with the NPL ratio declining to 1.64% and NPL coverage at 132%; increased provisions represent a prudential measure against evolving risks. Capital remained strong, with CET1 ratio at 13.1%, and BVPS rose 8% to ₱121.78   MANILA, Philippines — BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) reported a net income of ₱40.7 billion in the first half of 2026, slightly higher than ₱40.6 billion in the same period last year, driven by the continued strength of its core business segments. Return on equity stood at 12.7%. The bank sustained strong operating momentum, delivering mid-teens loan growth, double-digit growth in pre-provision operating profit and improved asset quality.  Provisions were increased as a prudential measure against evolving risks. Net interest income rose 11% year over year as gross customer loans expanded 15% to ₱3.9 trillion, supported by double-digit growth across all segments. Total deposits increased 13% while current and savings account (CASA) grew 4%. Non-interest income increased 4%, led by a 14% rise in insurance operations. Operating expense growth remained contained at a single-digit pace, resulting in a 12% increase in pre-provision operating profit. Asset quality continued to improve, with nonperforming loan (NPL) ratio declining to 1.64% from 1.75% in the same period last year. NPL coverage stood at 132%. Credit cost increased to 67 basis points, reflecting management’s proactive approach to potential risks. Shareholders’ equity rose 8%, with book value per share increasing to ₱121.78. The bank’s common equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio stood at 13.1%. Backed by strong business fundamentals, a healthy balance sheet, and its market leadership position, BDO remains well-positioned to navigate prevailing uncertainties and capture opportunities in an evolving business environment. Sustaining its strong momentum. BDO Unibank posted a net income of ₱40.7 billion in the first half of 2026, slightly higher than ₱40.6 billion in the same period last year.

By AboitizPower Vice President for Corporate Affairs Suiee Suarez   In the recent Inquirer ESG Edge Connect, a forum series to advance sustainability and ESG, UP Diliman College of Engineering Associate Dean for Public Engagement Professor Rowaldo “Wali” D. del Mundo offered a compelling framework to challenge the convention for determining backup power supply or reserves. That is to do probabilistic energy capacity planning. In context, he said that the power supply in the Philippines has historically been tight during the summer months to the point where it has become routine for journalists to ask the Department of Energy at the start of each year if there would be sufficient supply to avoid grid-level blackouts. While the answer is almost always in the affirmative, Professor Wali observed that even if the power grid has its existing generation resources and power delivery network (“adequacy”), it ultimately depends on “security”, or whether those assets can “provide continuous operation despite disturbances and outages”. The methodology of a probabilistic approach is to determine the chances of breakdowns of dispatchable power plants based on their past performance. With a long-term view, the approach would inform energy planners which type and size of power mix and network would work best going forward, given past conditions. Evolving conditions — like rising variable renewable energy penetration and externalities such as climate change and seasonal weather — add another layer of complexity and uncertainty that modifies the probabilities of the centralized dispatchable energy system. Considering the influx of more variable renewable energy, for example, statistical probability can be used to plan for the amounts of backup reserves needed in order to maintain a desired level of service reliability. Still, the flaw in probabilistic planning is how future outcomes are predicted based on what transpired in the past. But past performance may not be indicative of future results. Considering that we live in a more complex, fast-paced, and uncertain world subject to black swan-type shocks, we’ll need strategic foresight and some “thinking outside the box”. We should adopt nonlinear and scenario-based planning methods that are grounded in future scenarios rather than just past data and assumptions. In practice, planners can set a standard of energy security (for example, one hour of allowable outage per year) and the model can recommend a statistically computed amount of energy reserves needed to meet this requirement. In effect, this can inform industry planners, regulators, and investors on how much to build in terms of generation, transmission, and distribution. This is made more important by the fact that these investments take years in advance to put into motion, sometimes 5 to 10 years. In that regard, Professor Wali opined that today’s failures in the power grid are a culmination of what was and was not done five years ago. Considering today’s issues, the Philippine grid doesn’t just need more energy capacity and a diversity of options, but also more and better planning. Nonetheless, probabilistic planning and strategic foresight can only give so much. Better execution and cooperation are what can get the country across the energy tightrope. And yet, that is also easier said than done. Execution is made more difficult by the compounded issues, delays, and difficulties of years past. But this is where foresight can come in once again by guiding the industry in anticipating contingencies and preparing plans in case of delays or roadblocks. It is also where cooperation is most needed to get the job done, which, from the very beginning, has always been to provide reliable, affordable, and accessible energy to Filipinos.