From July 15 to July 22, 2024, passengers may book flights from Clark to select domestic destinations for as low as PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period will run from October 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025. The promo includes CEB flights between Clark and Puerto Princesa starting October 2, 2024, as well as flights between Clark and General Santos and Iloilo that will restart on October 21, 2024. Travelers may also choose flights between Clark and Davao, which will once again start on October 22, 2024. With the relaunch of CEB’s Clark operations, travelers will now have more opportunities to visit the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, go sunbathing on the white sand beach of Gigantes Island in Iloilo, ride the Seven Falls zipline at Lake Sebu from General Santos, and enjoy extreme outdoor activities in Davao. Passengers may use their existing Travel Funds to book flights and avail of add-ons. Cebu Pacific also offers multiple payment options, including payment centers, credit or debit cards, and e-wallets. CEB currently flies to 35 domestic and 25 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

For Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, a good State of the Nation Address (SONA) hinges on the President outlining a robust infrastructure plan that transcends political administrations and leaves a lasting legacy for Filipinos. Cayetano made this comment to reporters ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming SONA on Monday, July 22, 2024. “Each administration has real pet bills, projects, or missions in life… BBM has long-term ambitions… Yung mga mabibigat na talagang gusto niyang ilarga, now is the time to say it,” the veteran senator said in a media briefing on Thursday, July 18. Drawing parallels to successful infrastructure projects in Hong Kong and Japan initiated decades ago, Cayetano underscored the importance of starting large-scale projects now to ensure timely completion and long-term benefits. “If you visited Hong Kong in the late 80s or early 90s, never ka pumunta ng Hong Kong na walang ginagawa sa kanilang subway. Ngayon, after 30 years, konektado na ang buong ilalim nila at halos pwede mo rin lakarin at nakakabit na lahat ng tren. Lalo ang Japan. Kapag nakita mo yung Japan, parang ugat ng tao na nag halo-halo yung mga linya ng tren,” he said. “Ang point ko, are we going to be happy that the last administration negotiated the subway and then just wait for it to finish by 2027, 2028, or 2029? Hindi ba dapat yung part 2 ng subway or yung subway for Cebu, or other trains for other parts of the country, ngayon pa lang iniisip na?” he added. Cayetano said the future of Metro Manila also lies in connecting it to the Greater Manila Area, which includes the CALABARZON region and the provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga. “Will we be satisfied with a Metro Manila subway or will we connect a Greater Metro Manila subway? Kasi if you don’t start that at kung walang direction sa SONA now, believe me, hindi mangyayari,” he commented. Cayetano also stressed the necessity for the administration to hammer out a long-term infrastructure strategy to establish a lasting legacy. “Kailangan din na medyo pukpukin y’ung infrastructure na long term… Remember, presidents think of their legacy. Kapag nasabi niya sa SONA ‘yan, babalik-balikan niya ‘yan. Kasi kayo mismo sa media, babalik-balikan iyan kung nagawa o hindi,” he said. He noted that the time to do this is now because the following years will be consumed by preparations for the 2028 presidential election. “The time for the political will of SONA is now until next year. After that, pulitika na,” he said. 

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, marked the celebration of National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week by ramping up its commitment to inclusive air travel through a comprehensive sensitivity training program for its employees. The program, conducted by Autism Society Philippines (ASP), Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), and The Vanguard Academy (TVA), covered essential aspects of disability awareness. This includes understanding different types of disabilities, effective communication strategies, and practical assistance techniques. Employees from various CEB departments, including cabin crew, ground staff, and customer service representatives, participated in the training. “Earlier this year, we signed a memorandum of understanding with DSAPI to advance our efforts in offering safe, reliable, and inclusive air travel experience,” said Candice Iyog, CEB marketing and customer experience officer. “This sensitivity training is an outcome of that agreement, and we are now extending the program to include other disability advocacy groups. This initiative is a crucial step in equipping Cebu Pacific employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist and support persons with disabilities compassionately.” Elmer Lapeña, DSAPI chairman, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. “Collaboration with organizations like Cebu Pacific is essential in promoting disability awareness and fostering an inclusive society. We are pleased to support their efforts in making air travel more accessible and acceptable for persons with disabilities,” he said. CEB has a long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, and this latest initiative is part of its broader efforts to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) within its operations. The airline continues to work closely with advocacy groups and stakeholders to ensure that its services meet the needs of all passengers.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Thursday reiterated his call to halt all forms of gambling in the country, particularly online gambling, e-sabong, and the controversial operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). “Ako yung siguro pinaka-outspoken, even when I was (House) Speaker, against all forms of gambling especially online e-sabong and POGO,” Cayetano said as he addressed the media on July 18, 2024. “That’s why, to this date, the city of Taguig did not allow any POGO operations. It’s because, now, it’s just like legal gaming forms – parating may unintended consequences yan,” he added. Two years ago, Cayetano filed the Anti-Online Gambling Act (Senate Bill No. 63) to prohibit gambling activities on the internet and impose penalties on online wagering and betting. This bill was discussed during the public hearing by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means last Tuesday on improving the country’s regulation of online gambling, alongside a bill filed by Committee chair Senator Sherwin Gatchalian to repeal the law taxing POGOs, ultimately rendering them illegal in the country. In the media interview, Cayetano said his opposition to POGOs is grounded on both economic and moral reasons, arguing that the negative social impact of POGOs far outweighs any supposed economic benefits. “Of course, ang argument pa rin ng PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) ay y’ung revenues. Hindi natin kinukwenta kung magkano ba ang ginagastos natin sa peace and order. Magkano ba yung nawawala sa scams o panloloko?” he said. Turning to online gambling in general, Cayetano cited growing concerns over its impact on Filipinos and the generations to come. “Ano ba yung tinatanim natin sa next generation? Wala pa akong country na nakikita [na tumatangkilik] sa mga online gaming na talagang umunlad,” he said.

Globe has noted a substantial decrease in bank-related spam and scam SMS, highlighting the success of its rigorous anti-fraud measures and strategic collaborations with major financial institutions. From January to June 2024, Globe successfully intercepted 2,740,012 bank-related spam and scam messages, marking a 43.56% year-on-year decline compared to the 4,855,199 messages blocked in the same period of 2023. This underscores the effectiveness of Globe’s proactive strategies and robust partnerships with the country’s major banks and financial institutions. The noteworthy improvement follows Globe’s anti-fraud agreements with the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP), encompassing 45 major banks, and various individual players in the finance sector. These collaborations have enabled vigorous and timely data and intelligence-sharing, aligning efforts to prevent and investigate fraud more effectively. “Our collective efforts with the banking sector have significantly strengthened our fight against spam and scam SMS targeting depositors. By working together and sharing critical intelligence, combined with our enhanced detection and blocking systems, we can now better protect our customers from illegal activities,” said Anton Bonifacio, Globe’s Chief Information Security Officer and Chief AI Officer. Globe has allocated approximately US$20 million to enhance its spam and scam SMS detection and blocking systems to prevent fraudulent messages from reaching consumers, The company operates a 25/7 Security Operations Center that filters out unwanted messages, including app-to-person and person-to-person SMS from international and domestic sources. Amid this decline, Globe calls on mobile users to remain vigilant amid emerging scam schemes that evade cellular networks, including the use of chat apps and fake cell towers that are able to send messages without telco detection.

MANILA, Philippines – Small businesses thrive on the swift and reliable deliveries provided by partner drivers. Often overlooked in the whirlwind of daily operations, these delivery heroes play a crucial role in ensuring customer satisfaction and business growth. Recognizing their indispensable contributions, Lalamove, the leading on-demand delivery platform, has launched the #DeliveryHeroKoTo initiative to celebrate their dedication.     Championing Local Entrepreneurs Lalamove has become an essential partner for countless micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing the most affordable and reliable delivery services. By ensuring timely deliveries, Lalamove partner drivers help businesses operate smoothly and efficiently, supporting local economies and fostering growth. Imagine running a small business where every delivery counts. Success hinges on the reliability of a business’s delivery service. For many entrepreneurs, Lalamove partner drivers are not just individuals who fulfill deliveries – they are true partners in their entrepreneurial journey. “My Favourite Driver from Lalamove has been a true lifesaver for my business,” said [Jenny Bautista, a mompreneur blogger]. “His dedication and timely deliveries have allowed me to keep my customers happy and my business thriving.” [Tech media influencer George Muyula] echoes this sentiment. “Lalamove partner drivers are the backbone of many MSMEs. Their hard work and reliability make a huge difference in the daily operations of countless businesses,” he said.   Celebrating Extraordinary Efforts The #DeliveryHeroKoTo initiative highlights the extraordinary efforts of Lalamove’s partner drivers. These unsung heroes go above and beyond their daily duties, ensuring that packages reach their destinations on time and in perfect condition. Their commitment not only keeps businesses running, but also enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. “Our partner drivers are true heroes who ensure businesses can continue to operate seamlessly. Simply being on time, delivering parcels with care, being respectful to customers, being good with directions among many others, merit recognition of their valuable part in the day-to-day of businesses and individual users.,” says Djon Nacario, Managing Director of Lalamove Philippines. “Through the #DeliveryHeroKoTo, we honor their dedication and significant impact on our community,” he added.   Join the Movement Lalamove invites business owners of all sizes to join the celebration by sharing their stories of exceptional service. To participate, simply post a screenshot of your Favourite Driver from the Lalamove app on your Facebook or Instagram account, detailing good driver qualities – like being on time, delivering with care, and being respectful – performed by a Lalamove partner driver. Don’t forget to include the hashtag #DeliveryHeroKoTo. Ten lucky Favourite Drivers will receive ₱10,000 in cash with a grocery or gadget package, while ten Lalamove users will be awarded ₱5,000 worth of Lalamove wallet credits.   Showing Appreciation is a Big Deal to Partner Drivers Recognizing your Lalamove Favourite Driver is more than showing appreciation—it’s acknowledging that even the little things go a long way. It fosters excellence and reliability, leading to customer satisfaction. The #DeliveryHeroKoTo initiative celebrates the human connections and dedication that keep our business thriving, reinforcing a supportive community for those who make it all happen. Join the #DeliveryHeroKoTo movement and celebrate the unsung heroes who power the success of small businesses. Share your stories and help create a ripple effect of positivity within the entire community.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) confirmed on Wednesday that the current budgetary cost for the New Senate Building (NSB) is now higher than the estimates provided by Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Nancy Binay. “Ito po problema, nung sinubmit niyo additional submissions niyo, luma na ang presyo. Meaning that lagpas na sa P23 billion yung total project cost,” Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, the chair of the Senate Committee on Accounts, said at the continuation of the public hearing on the NSB on July 10, 2024. This after the DPWH admitted that the budgetary cost estimate for the project could balloon to P25-P27 billion. “Ito ang ayaw naming mangyari. Ang pinagtalunan lang namin ni Senator Nancy Binay y’ung cost,” Cayetano said, pointing out that the figures he and Binay had argued about in the first hearing last week are far lower than the new figures revealed by the DPWH. According to the DPWH, the changes in budgetary cost estimates are due to inflation. To clarify the situation, Cayetano provided a breakdown of the total budgetary cost and the implications of applying a “conservative 20 percent inflationary cost” increase as referenced by the DPWH. Cayetano shared that Phase 1’s cost currently increased to P8.6 billion from P8.067 billion due to variation orders. Additionally, the senator also said Phase 2’s budgetary cost estimate is P2.375 billion with potential increases and Phase 3’s P10.33 billion cost, is currently under review. In response to DPWH’s admission, the senator urged the agency to “keep their eyes on the ball” and finalize the cost based on 2024 prices to keep the project moving. “Kayo ang technical, kayo ang nakakaalam. Simple lang: paano matapos sa soonest possible time [ang project na ito] na tamang presyo at tama ang pagkakagawa,” he said. “Get the final design, get the final costing,” he added

MANILA — Forty-eight new U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers arrived in Manila on July 8 to begin their two-year service to support local programs in education, youth development, and environmental protection in communities across the Philippines. Starting in September, the Peace Corps Volunteers will be assigned to fulfill a range of roles requested by host communities in Aklan, Antique, Batangas, Benguet, Bohol, Capiz, Cebu, Iloilo, La Union, Nueva Ecija, Oriental Mindoro, Pampanga, Pangasinan, and Tarlac. These roles include co-teaching English in public elementary and secondary schools, serving as youth development facilitators in Philippine Department of Welfare and Social Development-accredited organizations and residential shelters, and supporting local governments in establishing marine protected areas and implementing coastal resource management plans. “U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers come from all over the United States and represent the diversity of the American people. They come with a variety of skills and experience to contribute during their service in the Philippines,” U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson said. “The Peace Corps’ goal is to promote world peace and friendship, and what better way to do this than to serve with cultural humility and mutual respect to our Filipino friends and partners.” The 48 new Volunteers represent the 281st batch of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers deployed to the Philippines, bringing the total number of American volunteers currently serving in the country to 126 and surpassing the number of Volunteers assigned to the Philippines prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. “The Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) warmly welcomes this 281st batch of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers,” PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James Gawe said as he expressed hope that the new American Volunteers will “continue to serve as builders of hope and catalysts of change.” “Together, let us sustain the spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding and create a sustainable future for the generations to come,” he added. Before their local deployment, the Peace Corps Volunteers will undergo an intensive 11-week pre-service training that includes technical, language, and cultural studies to prepare them for their service. The newly arrived Volunteers, aged between 22 to 67, bring diverse experience, technical skills, and spirited enthusiasm to learn about the Philippines and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects that build relationships, promote knowledge exchange, and make a lasting and measurable impact. The Philippines is the second oldest U.S. Peace Corps program. More than 9,400 Americans have served alongside Filipino community members in support of government and community development priorities since 1961.

MANILA — Built upon a published study from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), researchers from the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila are investigating the antiretroviral properties of a plant extract in a promising step towards potentially finding treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Among the major challenges in treating HIV is viral latency, or the ability of the virus to be in a resting (latent) state, evading detection by the immune system and current HIV medications called antiretroviral therapies (ART). Although ART has significantly decreased mortality in HIV infection, there is emerging drug resistance in the Filipino population, and ART does not target latent infection or gene expression – the step responsible for the multiplication of new drug-resistant clones. In a bold move to change the game in HIV treatment by using natural compounds that may overcome these limitations, a Filipino expert in Virology, Dr. Sheriah Laine M. de Paz-Silava, and her team at UP Manila seeks to understand how the plant extract stops the virus by conducting tests on cells from HIV patients to assess its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. This project builds on a recently published study funded by the DOST-PCHRD which demonstrated the antiretroviral activity of the plant extract in HIV-latently infected cells, revealing that the plant extract inhibits virus production to almost zero levels at noncytotoxic concentrations. “One of the biggest obstacles towards achieving a cure for HIV infection is the presence of latently infected cells in bodily reservoirs…This study represents a significant step forward in our ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, particularly for those in the Philippines facing emerging drug resistance,” said DOST-PCHRD Executive Director, Dr. Jaime Montoya. Expected to end by November 2024, the project has already conducted initial experiments focusing on the preparation of plant extracts and the optimization of RT-PCR protocols. As the study progresses, the team plans to collaborate with the UP-Philippine Genome Center (PGC) to analyze the purified extracts and examine its mechanism of action in inhibiting HIV gene expression. This project is supported by DOST-PCHRD, under its Re-emerging and Emerging Diseases (RED) Program with a funding allocation of  P4,944,844.68, in support of one of the DOST’s strategic pillars – Promotion of human well-being.