Idineklara ng Department of Health (DOH) ang Code White Alert mula Enero 6–10, 2025 para sa taunang Traslacion ng Poong Itim na Nazareno,ngayong araw Enero 9. Ang alertong ito ay nagsisiguro na ang lahat ng itinalagang medical personnel, kagamitan, at pasilidad sa NCR at mga karatig-rehiyon gaya ng Central Luzon at CALABARZON ay nakaantabay upang mabilis na tumugon sa mga emerhensiya o insidenteng may kaugnayan sa kalusugan sa panahon ng malaking pagtitipong panrelihiyon. Ang DOH, sa pakikipagtulungan sa mga katuwang na ahensya at Lokal na Pamahalaan ng Maynila, ay magtatalaga ng medical teams at mga health station sa mga pangunahing lugar ng ruta ng Traslacion, kabilang ang Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, SM Manila, Ayala Bridge, P. Casal, at Quinta Market. Dagdag pa rito, 201 tauhan mula sa Health Emergency Response Team (HERT) ng 20 ospital ng DOH sa Metro Manila, kabilang ang Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center (JRRMMC), Tondo Medical Center (TMC), Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital (DJFMH), at East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC), ang itatalaga. Ang mga katuwang na ahensya tulad ng Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), at DOH Metro Manila Center for Health Development (MMCHD) ay magkakaroon din ng mahalagang papel upang matiyak ang koordinado at epektibong pagtugon sa kalusugan. Ang mga itinalagang health station sa kahabaan ng ruta ng Traslacion ay magbibigay ng basic at advanced care ayon sa pangangailangan. Nakaantabay rin ang mga ambulansya para sa agarang pagdadala ng mga pasyente sa ospital. Ang mga pasilidad tulad ng JRRMMC, TMC, at iba pang ospital ng DOH sa NCR ay handang tumanggap ng mga pasyenteng nangangailangan ng mas masusing atensyong medikal. Binibigyang-diin din ng DOH ang kahalagahan ng pagsunod sa mga pag-iingat sa kalusugan at kaligtasan sa panahon ng Traslacion. Hinihikayat ang mga deboto na kung may ubo o sipon at hindi maganda ang pakiramdam, iwasan na muna ang magpunta sa Traslacion para hindi lumala ang kondisyon at mapigilan ang pagkalat ng sakit. Uminom ng walong basong tubig kada araw upang manatiling hydrated, magsuot ng komportableng damit, at limitahan ang matagal na pagkakalantad sa init upang maiwasan ang mga sakit tulad ng heat stroke. “Ang taunang Traslacion ay panata na ng milyun-milyong mga Pilipinong deboto. Kasama niyo ang DOH sa pagtitiyak ng maayos na kalusugan at kaligtasan ng lahat. Kasama ang ating mga katuwang na ahensya, ang DOH ay handang tumugon sa anumang medical emergencies at magbigay ng agarang pangangalaga. Hinihikayat namin ang lahat ng debotong makipagtulungan, maging mapagmatyag, at unahin ang kanilang kalusugan sa makabuluhang pagdiriwang na ito,” ani Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa. Photo Courtesy ABSCBN

Year 2024 has been a banner year for the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) after its gross revenues breached the Php 11 billion mark, mainly driven by the joint venture deal for a 6.1-hectare mixed-use development in Taguig City. BCDA saw its gross revenues increase by 3% to Php 11.3 billion in 2024 from Php 10.9 billion in 2023. This steady growth and positive financial performance was mainly attributed to the execution of a joint venture agreement for the development of the 6.1-hectare mixed-use development in Bonifacio Capital District in Taguig, which yielded an initial payment of Php 3.5 billion to the BCDA. Additionally, the BCDA’s toll and airport concession revenues saw an increase of Php 925 Million from Php 2.3 billion in 2023 to Php 3.2 billion in 2024. Dividends from BCDA’s affiliates also grew by Php 325 million from Php 675 million in 2023 to Php 1 billion in 2024. “Through collaboration with partners that share our vision and efficient revenue generation efforts, the BCDA wrapped up 2024 as another banner year for the organization, sustaining good financial performance over the years. This is fueled by our mission to build world-class cities and implement game-changing projects for the benefit of the Filipino people,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said. Engr. Bingcang expressed optimism that the BCDA will continue to sustain its revenue levels, with earnings projected to remain above Php 10 billion in 2025. He said this forecast reflected the BCDA’s continued efforts to foster strong partnerships and implement projects that fuel economic growth and infrastructure development in the country. “We are committed to continue generating strong revenues, as this will allow us to boost our support for our beneficiary agencies and stakeholders, especially our military forces,” Engr. Bingcang said. Pursuant to its mandate under Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, the BCDA transforms former military camps into centers of economic growth, generating income through disposition proceeds from sale, lease, and joint venture, as well as concession fees and other receipts. Portions of these proceeds are remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury through dividends and contributions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other beneficiary agencies. A share of the earnings are also used to fund the BCDA’s infrastructure projects to help strengthen and boost the competitiveness of its economic zones.                

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, welcomed its 16th aircraft delivery this year, an A330neo, further boosting its seat capacity to accommodate rising travel demand and support its expanding network. The brand-new 459-seater aircraft arrived in Manila on December 19, bringing the current number of A330neos in CEB’s fleet to 10. “The A330neo’s versatility and efficiency are key to our goal of providing affordable and reliable travel options for every Juan. This aircraft enables us to serve high-traffic routes and long-haul destinations more effectively while optimizing seat capacity to accommodate increasing demand,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer. Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn 15 percent less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. The reduction in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions. On October 2, CEB announced that it has signed a landmark purchase agreement with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, for up to 152 A321neo aircraft, equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines. The acquisition is the largest in Philippine aviation history, valued at approximately USD $24 billion (PHP 1.4 trillion) based on list prices. CEB operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its diversified commercial fleet mix of 10 Airbus 330s, 40 Airbus 320s, 25 Airbus 321s, and 15 ATR turboprop aircraft enabling the widest network coverage in the Philippines.

As 2024 comes to a close, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara commended the Aboitiz Foundation for its continued dedication to improving Philippine education. Through programs like AuroraPH and Aboitiz Future Leaders, the Foundation has created lasting solutions to benefit students and teachers, especially in remote and underserved areas. “Aboitiz Foundation has demonstrated unwavering dedication to providing quality education for the Filipino youth, particularly in underserved and remote communities,” said Secretary Angara.  “Public-private partnerships accelerate our impact on learners and teachers. By working together, we can create enduring solutions that ensure a brighter future for Filipino children.” The AuroraPH program has exceeded its 2024 goal by energizing and connecting 11 last-mile schools to the internet through solar power, surpassing the original target of 10 schools. These solar panels provide a sustainable solution to energy and connectivity issues in remote areas. In 2025, the Foundation plans to expand AuroraPH to reach 100 more schools nationwide, helping even more students access quality education. Meanwhile, the Aboitiz Future Leaders program continues to empower the youth, currently supporting 50 college scholars in various universities across the country. For 2025, the program aims to onboard 100 more scholars, giving them access to education and brighter career opportunities. “Our partnership with DepEd drives us to create transformative programs that open pathways for Filipino youth,” said Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar. “Through AuroraPH and Aboitiz Future Leaders, we’re turning challenges into opportunities for success.” In addition to education, the Aboitiz Foundation focuses on two other pillars: Jobs and Climate Action. The flagship program under the Jobs pillar, Elevate AIDA, equips women with skills in artificial intelligence and data annotation, paving the way for meaningful job placements and income generation. Meanwhile, the Climate Action pillar highlights programs such as CarbonPH and the Wasteless Campaign, both of which emphasize environmental sustainability and resilience. CarbonPH focuses on reforestation and watershed recovery, while the Wasteless Campaign promotes recycling and sustainable practices in partnership with communities and stakeholders. The Aboitiz Foundation’s multi-pronged approach to nation-building reflects its mission to create a better and more sustainable Philippines. By supporting education, fostering job creation, and championing climate action, the Foundation aligns with national development goals and inspires collaboration across sectors. “Programs like AuroraPH and Aboitiz Future Leaders show how partnerships can drive inclusive growth and sustainable development,” added Hontiveros-Malvar. “We thank the Department of Education for its invaluable guidance and support.” The DepEd also recognized other Aboitiz Group initiatives from City Savings Bank, AboitizPower’s Therma South Inc., and Visayan Electric, for advancing education and uplifting communities across the Philippines.      

ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC) Philippines announces the topping off of STT Fairview 1, the first building in the country’s largest carrier-neutral and sustainable data center campus. The event marked the completion of the data center’s structural framework, a milestone towards its first-phase activation by the second quarter of next year. “This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to our promise and highlights our dedication to our valued customers, partners, and stakeholders,” said Carlo Malana, President and CEO of STT GDC Philippines. “With STT Fairview 1 nearing completion, we are eager to provide our customers with world-class, AI-ready data center solutions that set a new standard in connectivity and innovation.” The STT Fairview campus has a total design capacity of 124 MW. This new site will cater to the increasing demands of hyperscalers and AI companies in need of high power capacity, advanced cooling technologies, secure, and reliable data center services. Once fully completed, STT Fairview 1 becomes one of STT GDC Philippines’ seven data centers in the Philippines, collectively offering a design IT capacity exceeding 150 MW, and all operating on 100% renewable energy, across Metro Manila, Cavite, and Davao. The demand for advanced data centers continues to grow in the Philippines, fueled by increasing digital consumption, cloud adoption, and AI applications. As businesses embrace digital transformation, STT GDC Philippines ensures its facilities are ready to support high-performance computing and machine learning requirements. STT Fairview 1 is set to play a critical role in this evolution, reinforcing the company’s position as a trusted partner for secure, reliable, and sustainable data center services in the region.      

On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Senator Imee Marcos delivered a sponsorship speech advocating for her proposed amendment to the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities. The amendment includes a 500-peso monthly stipend for indigent individuals with severe disabilities. Senator Marcos highlighted the limitations of the existing Magna Carta, or Republic Act 7277, stating that it primarily benefits PWDs with purchasing power. “Although the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons provides numerous benefits and privileges, these are mostly enjoyed by those who, to a certain extent, have the necessary purchasing power,” she explained. She emphasized that the proposed stipend would provide much-needed relief to the most vulnerable. “The 500-peso monthly stipend is a huge help to our poverty-stricken PWDs to aid in their daily expenses,” she added. According to Marcos, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) recorded 13 million PWDs in 2020. Of these, the Department of Health (DOH) identified approximately 593,911 as severely challenged individuals, who she believes should be prioritized. Marcos highlighted the importance of more efficient resource allocation to address critical needs. “If billions can be spent on flood control projects with questionable effectiveness, and medicines and food are left to spoil in storage, why can’t we allocate a portion of that to support marginalized PWDs?” she questioned.

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, proudly reached a new milestone as it celebrated flying its 250 millionth passenger, underscoring the airline’s continued dedication to providing affordable and memorable travel experiences for its passengers. The special occasion was marked with a vibrant event at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on December 11, 2024. The passenger, Singapore-based Russel Capaniarihan, is an overseas Filipino worker originally from Bacolod. Capaniarihan, who was aboard Flight 5J 814 from Singapore to Manila, returned home to the Philippines to spend the holidays with her family for the first time in 11 years. Upon her arrival at NAIA, Capaniarihan was warmly welcomed by CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao and Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Candice Iyog. As a token of appreciation for this historic milestone, Capaniarihan received PHP 250,000 in cash and 25 free round-trip tickets to any destination within Cebu Pacific’s extensive network, which spans the Philippines, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. “This 250 million passenger milestone is a testament to the trust and loyalty of every Juan who has chosen to fly with us. It represents countless stories, reunions, and memorable moments made possible over the years. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to making every Juan’s journey affordable, accessible, and unforgettable—not only across the Philippines but beyond,” said Lao at the NAIA event. The celebrations began earlier at Singapore Changi Airport, where passengers of Flight 5J 814 were greeted with a photo wall hinting at the milestone announcement. During the flight, cabin crew heightened the excitement with games and prizes, including round-trip tickets to any Cebu Pacific destination. Upon landing in Bacolod, Capaniarihan received yet another heartwarming welcome at her final destination, with local representatives celebrating her as CEB’s 250 millionth passenger.

Asticom Technology Inc. (Asticom), Globe’s shared services company, has partnered with Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) to support the global Working with Cancer initiative, promoting inclusivity and care for employees facing cancer. Working with Cancer aims to combat the stigma of cancer in the workplace and create a culture of support for employees facing this life-threatening disease. Being a leading shared services company in the country, Asticom has always prioritized employee care through wellness programs, preventive measures, and non-discrimination policies, aligning with the Working with Cancer mission. It follows Globe in joining the initiative. In June this year, Globe became the first telco in the Philippines and Southeast Asia to participate in the global effort. Asticom’s partnership with AC Health reinforces the company’s efforts to ensure that employees facing the dreaded illness are equipped with the resources they need to recover without fear of job loss or discrimination. The company offers employee care initiatives, including flexible work arrangements, mental health programs, and cancer treatment coverage. “For almost a decade, Asticom has been driven by a clear purpose: to improve people’s lives. And at the heart of that mission is our people. They are the backbone of everything we do. We strive to provide support to our employees, especially in facing health challenges,” said Asticom President and CEO Mharicar Castillo-Reyes at the signing ceremony. “Together with AC Health, we are setting the stage for a more compassionate and supportive workplace culture. By committing to the Working with Cancer pledge, we’re taking tangible steps to ensure our employees feel secure, especially when they need support the most,” she added. AC Health President and CEO Paolo Borromeo commended Asticom’s dedication, emphasizing the shared responsibility of both organizations in transforming workplace cancer care and fostering a culture of support and compassion. “Asticom joining the Working with Cancer pledge is a powerful testament to the growing commitment among companies to prioritize employee well-being. At AC Health, we are proud to support like-minded partners in creating workplaces that champion compassion and inclusivity, setting a benchmark for how organizations can offer more care for their employees,” he said. Asticom’s commitment to providing exceptional care and support for its workforce not only prioritizes employee well-being but also sets a standard for the corporate community to emulate.    

Iginawad ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ang kauna-unahang Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) sa Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Maynila ngayong ika-9 ng Disyembre 2024. Ang prestihiyosong parangal ay tinanggap ni Manila Mayor Dra. Honey Lacuna at Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto, kasama ang mga direktor mula sa iba’t ibang departamento ng Manila City Hall, sa isang seremonya na ginanap sa Manila Hotel. Ang Seal of Good Local Governance ay isang simbolo ng dedikasyon ng pamahalaang lungsod sa pagpapabuti ng lokal na pamamahala. Ang pagkakamit ng parangal na ito ay nagpapatunay sa kanilang pagsusumikap sa pagtutok sa mga pamantayan ng transparency, integridad, at mahusay na paghahatid ng mga serbisyo sa kanilang mga nasasakupan. Isang malaking hakbang ito para sa Maynila patungo sa mas progresibo at makatarungang pamamahala, at isang patunay ng kanilang komitment na maglingkod ng tapat at maayos. Muli, Congratulations sa Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Maynila at sa mga nasasakupan nito para sa natamo nating tagumpay! (Manila PIO)