QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Social Security System (SSS) reaffirmed its commitment to faster and more responsive public service as it joins the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) in celebrating its 8th anniversary on Friday, May 22. SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. de Claro said the agency continues to strengthen frontline services, simplify processes, and modernize systems to better respond to member concerns, in line with the shared goal of improving government service delivery for Filipinos. “As one of the country’s largest public service institutions, SSS recognizes that every transaction affects the daily lives of our members. We continue to improve our systems, processes, and frontline services because faster and more responsive government service is not only an operational goal, but a public responsibility,” de Claro said. “The agency’s strong financial performance in 2025 has strengthened its capacity to expand member assistance programs and accelerate reforms aimed at improving service delivery”, de Claro added. In 2025, SSS posted a net income of P142.97 Billion while its Reserve Fund surpassed the P1 Trillion mark for the first time in the institution’s history, a major milestone that further strengthens the long-term stability of the pension fund for current and future members. “Our strong financial position allows us to invest directly in better services, new technologies, infrastructure upgrades, and programs that will improve the experience of our members,” de Claro said. He also highlighted the agency’s expanded relief programs designed to help Filipino workers and families cope with the continuing impact of the national energy emergency. As part of these efforts, de Claro said SSS is also preparing to roll out an Energy Sustainability Loan Program in September. The program allows qualified SSS members with a Mandatory Provident Fund account to avail themselves of financing to install residential solar panel systems, payable for up to seven years. The Mandatory Provident Fund Program is a compulsory retirement savings scheme that automatically enrolls SSS members who are contributing to the regular SSS program with a Monthly Salary Credit (MSC) above ₱20,000. SSS aims to support at least 100,000 homes by 2028 through the program, which seeks to help families manage rising electricity costs while promoting long-term energy sustainability. According to de Claro, the initiative reflects the evolving role of SSS in responding not only to traditional social security concerns, but also to emerging economic pressures affecting Filipino households. “As ARTA continues to push for reforms in government service delivery, SSS remains committed to developing programs that are more responsive, practical, and relevant to the everyday realities of the Filipino people,” de Claro said.  

MANILA, Philippines — Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, today took delivery of a brand-new Airbus A320neo aircraft, further strengthening its fleet with modern and fuel-efficient jets. The aircraft arrived in Manila from Airbus’ facility in Tianjin, China, marking the second of four A320neo aircraft expected to join CEB’s fleet this year. In total, CEB anticipates the delivery of seven NEO aircraft in 2026 as part of its ongoing fleet modernization program. “The arrival of another Airbus A320neo reinforces our commitment to sustainability while keeping air travel accessible,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer. “In today’s operating environment, NEO aircraft also play an important role in helping us manage costs, improve operational efficiency, and reduce our carbon footprint.” Airbus NEO aircraft now comprise 74% of CEB’s jet fleet. Compared to previous-generation aircraft, these aircraft burn 15-20% less fuel per flight and produce significantly less noise, contributing to lower carbon emissions and more sustainable operations. CEB operates one of the youngest fleets in the world. Its diversified fleet mix of 14 Airbus A330s, 27 Airbus A321s, 40 Airbus A320s, and 20 ATR turboprop aircraft enables the widest network coverage in the Philippines.        

Globe reaffirmed its commitment to nation-building by supporting the Philippine government’s hosting of ASEAN-related events in the first quarter of 2026, delivering free mobile signal enhancements and dedicated on-ground support across key venues nationwide. In close coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and the ASEAN National Organizing Council, Globe worked proactively to help ensure that the country’s hosting of regional engagements was backed by reliable, high-quality connectivity. The initiative supported events in Metro Manila as well as in Cebu, Bohol, Iloilo, and Boracay. Recognizing the importance of seamless communication in international gatherings, Globe carried out extensive preparations ahead of the events. The company conducted readiness checks across dozens of venues and worked alongside government partners to anticipate connectivity requirements and strengthen network capacity in advance. During the events, Globe deployed dedicated teams on the ground to continuously monitor network performance and respond quickly to any issues. This allowed delegates, organizers, and participants to stay connected and focused on advancing regional cooperation. Improved 5G coverage To further support high-traffic venues such as hotels and function spaces, Globe rolled out targeted enhancements and improved 5G coverage in select locations. These efforts resulted in stronger, more consistent mobile signals and faster data speeds, helping ensure a seamless digital experience for all attendees. The DICT commended Globe for its proactive contribution, recognizing the company’s role in strengthening connectivity support for ASEAN events. “Globe stands with the government in enabling meaningful participation and collaboration during ASEAN engagements. By ensuring reliable connectivity, we aim to support the country’s role in fostering stronger regional partnerships,” said Joel Agustin, Senior Vice President for Service Planning and Engineering at Globe. Through early preparation, close public-private collaboration, and sustained on-ground support, Globe contributed to the successful staging of ASEAN activities in the Philippines. Globe continues to work alongside government and industry partners in strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure, supporting initiatives that promote national development and reinforce the Philippines’ position in the regional and global community.      

Manila, Philippines – The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is supporting the development of a new international airport in Metro Manila, Philippines, that will strengthen secure transportation links with the United States. USTDA announced funding today for a feasibility study on the proposed Sangley Point International Airport, which would ease congestion at Manila’s existing airport and serve as a key international aviation gateway for the Philippines. The study will further high-quality infrastructure to serve the Philippines’ projected aviation needs and define strong security measures to protect direct flights to several major U.S. aviation hubs. “The high volume of direct international travel between the United States and the Philippines reflects the steadfast friendship of our two countries, and we share a desire to see passenger traffic flourish safely and efficiently,” said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA’s Deputy Director. “This project is one of many shared priorities with the Philippines government to achieve our collective goal of a free and open Indo-Pacific.” USTDA awarded the funding to Philippine project developer Cavitex Holdings Inc. (Cavitex), which selected California-based The S-A-P Group, LLC (SAP) to conduct the study. SAP will provide U.S. technical expertise to guide the airport’s development, including air traffic forecasts, financial analyses, and recommendations for advanced security screening at an airport expected to have direct flights to the United States. The study will also promote the adoption of trusted U.S. solutions, including screening technologies, airport construction components, safety and security equipment, telecommunications networks, and consulting services. The project aligns with the Luzon Economic Corridor effort aimed at strengthening connectivity and economic resilience across a key region of the Philippines. Sangley’s construction will address Manila’s rising travel demand and air traffic congestion by expanding the city’s capacity for both cargo and passenger traffic. Metro Manila is currently served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which served approximately 52 million travelers in 2025. Leonides J.M. Virata, President and CEO of Cavitex said: “Cavitex Holdings Inc welcomes the grant from the USTDA, highlighting its importance in accelerating the development of the SPIA, a key infrastructure project under the SPIA Devt Consortium. USTDA’s technical assistance will help advance project planning and implementation by enabling access to advanced U.S. expertise, innovative technologies, and global best practices. The SPIA initiative will deliver transformative benefits for the country – creating tens of thousands of jobs, enhancing mobility, and unlocking billions in long-term economic activity.”                  

MANILA, PHILIPPINES —The Governments of the Philippines, United States, and Japan announced today the expansion of the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) partnership to include Australia, Denmark, France, Italy, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The Luzon Economic Corridor, announced in April 2024 as the first Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI) corridor in the Indo-Pacific, enhances connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. Through coordinated investments in transport infrastructure, energy systems, digital connectivity, and advanced manufacturing supply chains, the LEC will create thousands of high-quality jobs and transform Luzon into a more prosperous and interconnected region. “The expansion of the LEC partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration among likeminded nations committed to transparency and shared prosperity,” said Philippine Secretary of Finance Frederick D. Go, Co-Chair of the LEC Steering Committee. “Together, we are building infrastructure that will improve daily life for millions of Filipinos and create new opportunities for businesses, industries, and communities in our partner countries and across the region.” LEC partners share a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and pledge to promote fair and transparent economic development. Partners will contribute through technical assistance, financing, and facilitation of private sector investments, while actively participating in working groups focused on transport, energy, and digital infrastructure. Australia is mobilizing investment in the LEC through Australia’s Manila Deal Team, reinforced by technical assistance under the Partnerships for Infrastructure program and a new Php1.9-billion (US$32.6-million) partnership with the Philippines on inclusive economic growth. Denmark is contributing to the LEC by revitalizing Philippine shipbuilding, advancing green maritime innovation, and fostering investments, jobs, and sustainable industrial development. Working with government and the private sector, Denmark’s shipbuilding initiative aims to create 10,000 jobs. France is strengthening connectivity in the LEC by financing 100 bridges through official development assistance, and industrial capacity building through a foreign direct investment project in the aeronautics sector. Italy is contributing to the development of quality, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure by increasing its public financial support in order to facilitate private sector investment from Italian companies in the transport, semiconductors, and manufacturing sectors The Republic of Korea is contributing to enhanced transport and digital connectivity, and sustained economic growth along the LEC, through Official Development Assistance and Public-Private Partnership initiatives, including a Php1.5billion (US$25.6million) grant to establish the National Cyber Security Center and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport modernization PPP Project. Sweden is contributing to Luzon’s Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas freight railway through a Php74-million (US$1.2 million) grant to fund a feasibility study on signaling systems and operational models. The United Kingdom is deploying its full Growth and Investment Partnerships (GIP+) toolkit in the LEC, providing technical assistance, Php411 billion (US$6.8 billion) in export finance, and mobilizing capital towards infrastructure and energy projects. “The expansion of the Luzon Economic Corridor partnership shows what we can accomplish when likeminded nations unite around strategic infrastructure and shared prosperity. This initiative is creating real opportunities for U.S. business, our Philippine partners, and investors across the Indo-Pacific while countering exploitative infrastructure practices with a better alternative,” said U.S. Senior Advisor for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs Ambassador Heather Variava. “This expanded partnership reflects our shared vision for quality infrastructure   development that respects transparency, sustainability, and the rule of law,” said Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Endo Kazuya. “Together, we are building connectivity that will benefit generations of Filipinos and strengthen economic ties across the Indo-Pacific.” The LEC initiative represents unparalleled opportunities for domestic and international investors to participate in transformative projects that strengthen supply chains and enhance regional connectivity.  

International and local guests alike can now experience executive health screenings combined with an overnight eco-therapy stay, elevating the Philippines’ position in the wellness tourism scene.    Taguig City, Philippines – Fullerton Health Philippines, the Philippines’ first dedicated Executive Health Screening (EHS) and advanced diagnostic imaging center, offering a 5-star personalized healthcare experience, has partnered with Nurture Wellness Village in Tagaytay to introduce a unique wellness tourism offering that combines preventive healthcare with eco-therapy and holistic relaxation. This collaboration presents a compelling option for both local and international clients: a comprehensive executive health screening paired with an overnight stay for two at Nurture Wellness Village, allowing guests to prioritize their health while enjoying a serene nature-based retreat. Guests may also choose to enhance their experience with detox treatments, spa services, and other wellness activities available at the village, which can be booked separately. Complimentary morning Tai Qi sessions are also offered to in-house guests as part of the wellness experience. “Our partnership with Fullerton Health is about more than just wellness, it’s about showing the world that the Philippines is a premier destination for medical and wellness tourism. We combine nature’s healing properties, skilled therapists, and holistic wellness experiences with Fullerton [Health]’s executive health screening to empower individuals to take charge of their health in a beautiful, restorative environment,” said Cathy Brillantes-Turvill, President of Nurture Wellness Village. Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Radlink Philippines Corporation and EHS Lead-Philippines of Fullerton Health, added, “This is the perfect way for busy professionals and international travelers to prioritize their health while enjoying a relaxing getaway. Clients get the benefits of a thorough, private, and efficient executive health screening, followed by the rejuvenating experience of Tagaytay’s premier eco-therapy destination. It’s preventive healthcare complemented by rest and rejuvenation.” Darren Lim, Senior Vice President, Group CCO Office of Fullerton Health, highlighted the broader impact on wellness tourism: “This partnership offers travelers from across the region a compelling reason to visit the Philippines, not just for leisure, but to invest in their health. By combining world-class medical services with uniquely Filipino wellness experiences, we’re creating a model for holistic wellness tourism that is both accessible and unforgettable.” The Fullerton Health Philippines and Nurture Wellness Village package starts at PHP 30,500, offering a unique value for both preventive healthcare and a luxurious wellness retreat. This partnership marks a significant step in promoting the Philippines as a global destination for wellness tourism, highlighting the country’s ability to deliver medical excellence, natural beauty, and Filipino hospitality in one integrated experience.  

TAGUIG CITY, Philippines — A world-class forensic laboratory meant to help solve crimes faster and deter criminals is nearing completion in the City of Taguig, just two years after it broke ground. Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday brought Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon to the site of the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s first-of-its-kind forensic laboratory in Camp Bagong Diwa as part of the Secretary’s inspection of DPWH projects in the senator’s home city. Several portions of the project have already been completed, while work on other sections continues to make significant progress. “Ang intensiyon nito is to move the capability of PNP,” he told reporters during the visit on April 28, 2026. “Ang buong responsibilidad sa anti-crime ay buong society: magulang, pari, pastor, businessmen, media. Sistema ‘yan. But how do you help the police? One way is to back them up with the facilities and science,” he continued. The project is a collaboration between the City Government of Taguig, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), and Taguig City University, whose criminology program consistently ranks among the top in the country. The visit also highlighted Cayetano’s long-running partnership with Dizon, the DPWH’s “action man” who has been personally inspecting public works projects across the country since taking over the department. First of its kind in Southeast Asia Cayetano, who has championed the project since 2007, earlier said the facility is envisioned to become the “most modern forensics unit in Southeast Asia” and a major step toward strengthening the country’s justice system. “All around the world, law enforcement is moving into two things: forensic science and artificial intelligence,” he said. Once opened, the 12-storey facility in Taguig will house the 13 technical divisions of the NCR Regional Forensic Unit, providing a central site for faster and more coordinated evidence processing, analysis, and secure storage. The lab will have advanced facilities that can analyze different kinds of evidence, from physical to digital. This includes facilities for medico-legal and autopsy work, forensic chemistry and drug-testing, DNA analysis, ballistics and firearms testing, and checking fingerprints and suspicious documents. “‘Pag crime scene, nilalagyan pa natin ng dilaw na tape. But napapaisip tayo kung talaga bang kinukuha ang fingerprint at DNA? Mapagkakatiwalaan ba natin ang pasa-pasa ng DNA? Sigurado ba talagang nakulong ’yon?” he previously said. “Many of these questions ay mareresolve ‘pag mayroon tayong very professional forensic group at modern crime lab.” Deterrent to crime The project is part of Cayetano’s broader push to modernize crime laboratories across the country to help law enforcers build stronger evidence and solve cases faster. “The biggest deterrent to crime is the certainty of being caught,” he said back in 2022 during Taguig’s celebration of National Correctional Consciousness Week. He stressed that while witness testimony is accepted in court, forensic evidence “simply has more weight.” During the visit to the forensic lab on Tuesday, the senator encouraged police officers, whether active in the service or retired, to communicate their needs to policymakers. “Engage niyo y’ung policymakers, from the barangay all the way to Malacañang, because mas alam niyo ang problema niyo at mas alam niyo ang solusyon,” he said.

 Manila, Philippines — As part of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic ties and the Freedom 250 commemoration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, the United States is organizing a series of Galing USA promotions in April and May to showcase the exceptional quality, versatility, and local application of U.S. food products and expand market access for American agribusiness in the Philippines.   USDA Under Secretary Bekkering and Chargé d’Affaires Ewing present certificates to eight Filipino organizations as Key Partners in U.S. Agricultural Excellence and Prosperity.   In partnership with the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), ten of the Philippines’ finest restaurants celebrate American Restaurant Month by offering special dishes that demonstrate how America’s finest beef, poultry, and specialty ingredients inspire culinary excellence across cooking styles and traditions. From April 13 to May 13, the following restaurants and their branches across 32 locations will offer special menu items ranging from USDA ribeye steaks and U.S. duck confit to selections of American cheeses: 25 Seeds Bizu Patisserie and Café Café Fleur Cyma Dickey’s Barbeque Pit Farmer’s Table Mamou One World Deli Souv The Split   USDA Under Secretary Bekkering joins Robinsons Supermarket Corporation Senior Merchandising Director Rosemarie Vierneza and officials from the U.S. Embassy and Robinsons Supermarket to launch the “Authentic American Flavors” promotion at The Marketplace at Parqal Mall, Parañaque City, on April 13.   Leading a U.S. Agribusiness Trade Mission to the Philippines, Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering said, “This initiative highlights the strong partnership between our nations and showcases the exceptional quality of U.S. products featured on these menus.  U.S. products are celebrated for their unparalleled quality and standards, which is why so many exceptional restaurants choose to incorporate U.S. ingredients into their culinary creations.” USDA is also partnering with The Marketplace and Metro Supermarket to promote a wide range of American food and beverage products, including U.S. meat and poultry, cheese, and blueberries.  Shoppers can taste “Authentic American Flavors” at The Marketplace Parqal Mall location in Parañaque City and experience the “Great American Food Fest” at Metro Supermarket’s Market! Market! location in Taguig City from April 13 to 26. “American farmers and ranchers are proud to supply high-quality and delicious products to consumers here in the Philippines,” said Deputy Under Secretary Bekkering.  “We greatly value our strong partnership with Filipino retailers like The Marketplace and Market! Market!, who help bring the best of American agriculture and flavors to Filipino households.” On April 14, Deputy Under Secretary Bekkering led the awarding of Key Partners in U.S. Agricultural Excellence and Prosperity to eight Filipino organizations for their valuable contributions to strengthening bilateral trade and food security by making high-quality U.S. food and agricultural products available to Filipino consumers.  “The awardees constitute nearly 200 years of combined U.S.-Philippines partnership.  We are truly honored by your continued trust in U.S. agriculture, and grateful for the role each of you plays in strengthening our bilateral relationship,” she noted. The awardees are: Century Pacific Food, Inc. Dane International Commodities, Inc. Jetti Petroleum, Inc. Meat Importers and Traders Association Philippine Association of Feed Millers, Inc. Philippine Association of Flour Millers, Inc. Philippine Association of Meat Processors, Inc. Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing added, “This recognition reflects the broader strength of the U.S.-Philippine trade relationship as partners in prosperity.  It is an auspicious occasion to recognize this inaugural class of honorees as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic ties this year.” The Philippines is the tenth largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years. Galing USA is an initiative by USDA through the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines’ Foreign Agricultural Service, aimed at promoting high-quality U.S. food and beverage products in the Philippine market. For more updates on American Restaurant Month and U.S. food promotions, follow Galing USA on Facebook.

MANILA, Philippines — The BCDA Group officially welcomes Atty. Jerry R. Marasigan as the new Chairperson of the BCDA Board of Directors. With a career spanning nearly 40 years, Atty. Marasigan is an accomplished legal expert who has successfully managed his own firm while championing excellence within the industry. He also previously served as a law professor at the San Sebastian College – Recoletos College of Law. The BCDA also thanks former BCDA Chairperson Atty. Hilario B. Paredes for his excellent service. His invaluable contribution brought the BCDA to greater heights in the past year. Most notably, he led the recovery of the 247-hectare Camp John Hay in Baguio City in early 2025, following a Supreme Court ruling. This restored government control over the property after years of legal disputes.