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PHL needs an E-Freedom of Information law, says experts

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By Edg Adrian A. Eva, Reporter

The Philippines needs an Electronic Freedom of Information (EFOI) law to ensure better access to government data, as a study showed that the public’s access to such information on the internet remains a hurdle, according to experts on Friday.

Oliver Xavier A. Reyes, a former judicial staff head of the Supreme Court, said Executive Order No. 2 issued in 2016, which has been operationalizing the current FOI framework, is constrained by various exceptions that limit the public’s access to government records.

“Kung magkaroon ng panibagong EFOI, ang ibang mga exceptions dito ay dapat hindi na current, hindi na applicable sa ngayon, at puwedeng tanggalin na [If a new EFOI is passed, some of the exceptions should no longer be current, no longer applicable today, and may already be removed],” Mr. Reyes said during the press conference on the presentation of the findings of the Data for Development in South and Southeast Asia (D4D) report.

The D4DHub report found that while the Philippine Constitution guarantees the right to information on matters of public concern, actual access to information through the internet remains a hurdle.

The report was based on a review and analysis of laws, policies, and initiatives affecting data governance practices in South and Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.

Mr. Reyes cited the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) as an example, noting that requests are still processed manually and have become more stringent due to a memorandum issued by the Ombudsman in 2020.

He added that if the government were more proactive in easing the requirements, SALNs of officials could potentially be made accessible online.

The EFOI would also provide a clearer guideline on what types of information the government may justifiably deny, Mr. Reyes said, citing several cases of unjustified rejections under the current FOI portal.

He also noted that the measure should establish clearer rules on possible violations related to the unjustifiable withholding of information.

“So what happens is that even a judge who is forced to decide on a freedom of information case doesn’t really have comprehensive guidelines,” Mr. Reyes said.

“The absence of an EFOI statute is one of our observations that is diminishing freedom or openness of information.”

Jose Jesus M. Disini Jr., associate professor at the University of the Philippines College of Law, told BusinessWorld that apart from considering the enactment of the EFOI law, the government also has to take into account the cost and sustainability of making information accessible to the public.

“What the government can do, and what it is good at, is making data available through regulation,” Mr. Disini said in an interview at the sidelines of the press conference.

“In other words, the government makes this data available in a particular format — something like open data, such as the Open Data Initiative,” he added.

Mr. Disini added that the government should also tap third parties, such as the private sector, to help maintain the potential portal once the EFOI is in place.

In July, a Philippine lawmaker filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) bill requiring the full disclosure of the SALN of all officials across all branches of government.

The Senate Bill No. 723 also requires agencies to publish annual budgets, itemized collections and disbursements, procurement plans, plantilla positions and vacancies, as well as details on loans, bids, and contracts. It further mandates the timely updating of such records on agency websites.

Philippine fishermen fear China’s nature reserve plan could lead to more harassment

A Filipino fisherman rows a boat during a trip near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, in Masinloc, Zambales province, Philippines, July 18, 2022. REUTERS/Lisa Marie David/File Photo

SUBIC, Philippines – Philippine fishermen fear that China’s plan to establish a nature reserve in the Scarborough Shoal could expose them to further harassment and make it even harder to operate in the disputed South China Sea atoll, which is already under the constant watch of Chinese vessels.

China has approved the creation of a national nature reserve at the shoal, which lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone but has been under Beijing’s control since 2012.

Filipino boats have reported frequent encounters with Chinese coast guard vessels when venturing near the shoal, prized for its rich fish stocks and a turquoise lagoon that offers refuge for vessels during storms.

“Even now there has been harassment … We will be bullied even more,” said 57-year-old fisherman Mariano Cardenio, who has fished at the shoal for three decades.

China’s State Council said the reserve designation was an “important guarantee” to preserve the atoll’s ecosystem, but Philippine security officials condemned the move, calling it “clear pretext for occupation.”

There was no immediate comment from the Chinese Embassy in Manila about the fishermen’s concerns.

For years, Chinese ships have blockaded the lagoon, forcing Filipino fishermen to travel further for smaller catches, underscoring tensions in the South China Sea where several countries have overlapping claims.

Both China and the Philippines claim the Scarborough Shoal, but sovereignty remains unresolved. China took control in 2012 after a standoff and has since stationed coast guard and fishing vessels there.

A 2016 international ruling invalidated China’s sweeping claims and declared its blockade illegal, affirming the shoal as a traditional fishing ground for countries like the Philippines and Vietnam. China rejected the ruling.

“We fishermen will suffer losses if they push through with building in the shoal,” said 47-year-old fisherman Ruel Villanueva. “We will have a hard time fishing since China is asserting ownership even if it doesn’t belong to China.”

Manila, a US ally, also called on Beijing to withdraw the designation and comply with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

In November last year, Beijing also defined a baseline of territorial waters around the disputed Shoal. — Reuters

Rizal’s 1st legislative district is Philippines’ most populous — PSA

Rizal’s 1st legislative district (LD) emerged as the most populous in the country after logging 1.24 million residents, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s 2024 Census of the Population.

Maguindanao del Norte’s Lone LD in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao followed with 1.12 million. Caloocan City’s 1st LD trailed with 982,077, Pampanga’s 1st LD (923,929), and the City of Pasig’s Lone LD (853,050).

The Lone LD of Batanes is the least populous with 18,937 residents. This was followed by Makati City’s 2nd LD (40,444), Camiguin’s Lone LD (94,892), Siquijor’s Lone LD (107,642), and Dinagat Island’s Lone LD (120,533).

Among the 33 LDs of the National Capital Region (NCR), Caloocan City’s 1st LD has the highest population at 982,077. Next was the City of Pasig’s Lone LD (853,050), Quezon City’s 2nd LD (752,989), the City of Taguig’s Lone LD (739,502), and the City of Taguig-Pateros’s Lone LD (635,902).

The least populous LD in NCR is Makati City’s 2nd LD with 40,444 residents. Following were San Juan City’s Lone LD (134,312), Marikina City’s 1st LD (177,647), the City of Manila’s 2nd LD (201,515), and the City of Manila’s 3rd LD (237,005).

The NCR has 33 LDs among the region’s 16 highly urbanized cities (HUCs) and one municipality.

Manila and Quezon City both contain six LDs, with Caloocan City divided into three separate LDs. Five cities — Makati, Marikina, Parañaque, Taguig-Pateros, and Valenzuela — are split into two LDs each. Eight other highly urbanized cities have only one LD each.

General Santos City’s Lone LD is the most populous district in an HUC outside NCR, with 722,059 residents. The 1st and 2nd LD of the City of Davao followed with 650,568 persons and 645,734 persons, respectively. Next were the City of Bacolod’s Lone LD (624,787), and the City of Cebu’s 2nd LD (562,643).

The least populous LD in an HUC outside the NCR is the City of Cagayan de Oro’s Lone LD, with 346,633 residents. Next were City of Mandaue’s Lone LD (364,482), the City of Iligan’s Lone LD (368,132), City of Baguio’s Lone LD (368,426), and City of Butuan’s Lone LD (385,530).

Among HUCs outside of the NCR, City of Davao has the biggest number of LDs with three. The cities of Cebu, Zamboanga, and Cagayan de Oro had two LDs each. The remaining HUCs outside NCR had one LD each. — Pierce Oel A. Montalvo

More Filipinos engage in gig work for additional revenue

Commuters wait for public transportation along Ortigas Extension in Cainta, Rizal, Sept. 14, 2022. — PHILIPPINE STAR/ WALTER BOLLOZOS

By Justine Irish D. Tabile, Reporter

Technological advancements and the pandemic accelerated the Philippine gig work economy, but it is still being viewed only as an additional revenue stream, according to market research company Ipsos.

Ipsos Strategy3 Principal Christine P. Dugay said that gig work is becoming a new frontier for the Philippine labor market.

More Filipinos are going into gig work not just for additional income but to enjoy flexibility in time and location, she added.

“The gig economy has experienced significant growth in recent years, ushered in primarily by the pandemic, as well as technological advancements that we have seen in recent years,” she said in a press briefing on Friday.

Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, Ms. Dugay said that 9.9 million Filipinos are engaging in gig work as of 2022, representing 22% of the total employee population of 44 million.

“We also see that aside from global players, we also have local players coming into the space,” she added.

The study further revealed that gig workers engage in side hustles only to supplement their main revenue streams.

“Sixty-one percent of gig workers are in it part time. This is because a lot of them actually, or 31%, have full-time employment, and 16% have their own businesses,” she added.

“So, what is unique to the Philippines is that gig work is considered a secondary income,” she added.

Despite this, the report revealed that six out of ten Filipino gig workers see side hustles as a strategic choice and a viable long-term career option.

US threatens action against foreigners praising Charlie Kirk killing

CHARLIE KIRK, Turning Point USA founder, puts on a MAGA hat during the AmericaFest 2024 conference in Phoenix, Arizona on Dec. 19, 2024. — REUTERS/CHENEY ORR/FILE PHOTO

WASHINGTON – US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau on Thursday warned that Washington may take action against foreigners “praising, rationalizing, or making light” of the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, adding he had directed consular officials to take appropriate action.

“In light of yesterday’s horrific assassination of a leading political figure, I want to underscore that foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country,” Landau said in a post on social media platform X.

“I have been disgusted to see some on social media praising, rationalizing, or making light of the event, and have directed our consular officials to undertake appropriate action.”

Landau did not elaborate on what such action would mean.

Some users replied to Landau’s post with screenshots of accounts and posts, though it was unclear if the accounts they flagged were US visa holders.

The State Department’s number two then replied to some of those comments saying he would direct consular officials to monitor the comments on the post, which as of Thursday afternoon had over 2,000 replies.

A State Department spokesperson, asked about Landau’s post, said: “This Administration does not believe that the United States should grant visas to persons whose presence in our country does not align with US national security interests.”

But the spokesperson did not address questions on whether anybody had been identified to have their visa revoked or how consular officials would evaluate those flagged in response to Landau’s post.

Kirk, a 31-year-old author, podcast host and close ally of US President Donald Trump, helped build the Republican Party’s support among younger voters. He was killed on Wednesday by a single gunshot as he gave a talk at a university in Utah in what President Donald Trump called a “heinous assassination.”

The Trump administration has pursued a sweeping crackdown on immigration, including increasing social media vetting and revoking thousands of student visas and aiming to tighten the duration of others. — Reuters

IMF says US economy showing strains; tariffs pose some risks to inflation

PEOPLE pose for photos at the Cloud Gate public sculpture on a sunny day in Millennium Park in Chicago, Illinois, US, March 16, 2017. — REUTERS/CARLO ALLEGRI

WASHINGTON – The US economy is showing some strains after years of resilience, with domestic demand moderating and job growth slowing, the International Monetary Fund said on Thursday.

IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack said inflation was on a path to meet the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, but there were some risks that could push it higher, largely as a result of tariffs imposed on imports by the Trump administration.

“What we’ve seen over the past few years is that the US economy has proven to be quite resilient. We do see now that some strains are beginning to show,” she told a regular briefing. “Domestic demand has been moderating in the US, and job growth is slowing.”

Kozack said the front-loading of imports early in the year in anticipation of tariffs had caused some volatility in economic activity in the first half, and tariffs were now adding to inflation risks.

As a result of the combined factors, she said, the IMF saw scope for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates, although it should proceed cautiously, with an eye on emerging data.

She told a regular briefing that a downward revision in US employment data announced on Tuesday was a “bit larger” than the historical average.

The US government said 911,000 fewer jobs were likely created in the 12 months through March than previously estimated, suggesting that job growth was stalling before President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariffs on imports.

Such revisions could be driven by a variety of factors, including statistical issues and some related to response and survey errors, she said, adding the issue would be discussed during the scheduled IMF review of the US economy in November.

The Labor Department’s inspector general on Wednesday said it was initiating a review of challenges that the Bureau of Labor Statistics faces in collecting and reporting US economic data after it made large downward revisions to nonfarm payrolls and cut its inflation data collection.

Earlier sharp downgrades to May and June payroll figures angered Trump, prompting him to fire BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer and accuse her, without evidence, of faking the data. Trump has nominated E.J. Antoni, chief economist at the conservative Heritage Foundation, to replace her.

Kozack refused to be drawn on the credibility of US data, saying only that the IMF strongly advocated for accurate, timely and reliable data from all its members.

“This kind of data transparency strengthens the credibility of economic management in all countries,” she said. — Reuters US

NCR building materials wholesale price falls in August

Wholesale price of construction materials in Metro Manila declined to a nearly 16-year low in August, due to faster declines and slower increases recorded across most commodity groups, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said in a report.

Meanwhile, retail price growth rose, driven by the increase in the index of carpentry, the statistics agency said.

Based on preliminary data, the PSA showed that year-on-year growth of the construction materials wholesale price index (CMWPI) in the National capital region (NCR) fell 0.5% in August, steeper than the 0.3% drop in July.

This was a reversal of the 0.5% growth posted a year ago.

The latest reading was the weakest pace in almost 16 years, since the 1.9% drop in October 2009.
Year to date, August CMWPI growth averaged 0.1%, lower than the 0.8% average growth a year earlier.

The PSA attributed the contraction to the prices of electrical works (-0.5% in August from 0.3% in July), while slower increases were observed in G.I. sheet (0.7% from 1.3%), and plumbing fixtures and accessories or waterworks (0.4% from 0.5%).

Additionally, steeper declines were observed in cement (-1.3% from -1.2%), reinforcing steel (-1.3% from -0.7%), and fuels and lubricants (-3.2% from -3%).

On the other hand, price growth of tileworks accelerated to 1.5% from 1.2%, while doors, jambs, and steel casement grew to 0.6% from 0.5%, and PVC pipes accelerated and 0.3% from 0.1%.

Reinielle Matt M. Erece, economist at Oikonomia Advisory & Research, Inc., attributed the decline to sluggish construction activity.

“The slowdown may be caused by typhoons, which halt some activities, and a downturn in investments, as global investor pessimism and local issues weigh on investments,” he said in an email.

In August the Philippines experienced three typhoons, tropical cyclone Gorio (international name: Podul), typhoon Isang (Kajiki), and tropical depression Huaning.

RETAIL PRICE GROWTH PICKS UP
In a separate report by the PSA, the construction materials retail price index (CMRPI) inched up 1.1% in August, from 1% in July. A year earlier, it had the same growth rate.

The August CMRPI outcome was the fastest pace in five months or since the 1.2% in March.

In the eight months to August, CMRPI in NCR averaged 1.1%, similar with its average growth last year.

The CMRPI is based on 2012 constant prices, while the CMWPI is based on 2018 constant prices.

The acceleration in retail building materials price was driven by carpentry materials, whose price growth increased 0.3% in August from flat growth in July.

Stronger growth was also recorded in masonry materials (1.5% in August from 1.3% in July), tinsmithry materials (1.8% from 1.7%), and miscellaneous construction materials (0.4% from 0.2%).

Meanwhile, slower growth was observed in electrical materials (1.9% from 2%), painting materials and related compounds (2.1% from 2.3%), and plumbing materials (0.4% from 0.5%).

Mr. Erece said that demand for construction materials may continue to weaken this year, as major infrastructure projects undergo adjustments aimed at enhancing transparency following recent corruption scandals. — Heather Caitlin P. Mañago

Differentiating through fresh product offerings

The top officials behind the canned sardines brand, Mega Sardines, shared their prime advantage back when they were once a new player trying to enter the market 25 years ago.

“We saw the opportunity that, in the market at that time, there were no quality brand sardines that’s as fresh as Mega Sardines,” Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, president and chief executive officer of Mega Prime Foods Inc., said.

Interview by Edg Adrian Eva
Video editing by Arjale Queral

#ConsumerGoods
#FoodIndustry
#ProductDifferentiation
#StrategicAdvantage
#BusinessWorldPH

Up to 15 tropical cyclones may enter Philippines in next 6 months – PAGASA

PHILIPPINE STAR/KRIZ JOHN ROSALES/PPA POOL

By Edg Adrian A. Eva, Reporter

Up to 15 tropical cyclones are expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in the next six months, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

“(These tropical cyclones) are expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility within the next six months, from September 2025 to February of the following year,” Kristel Anne Valeri M. Villasica, PAGASA’s weather specialist, said in both English and Tagalog in a climate outlook video on Friday.

Ms. Villasica also said that above-normal rainfall is expected in the northeastern and southwestern parts of Luzon this September, while near-normal conditions are likely in the rest of the country.

From October to December, large portions of the country are expected to experience above-normal rainfall.

For the country’s temperature conditions over the next six months, Ms. Villasica said it is likely to experience average to slightly warmer temperatures.

Cold surges may also occur toward the end of the year and into early 2026, coinciding with the development of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan).

PAGASA also warns of a possible La Niña development, with the ENSO Alert System currently on La Niña Watch, indicating a 55% chance of occurrence within the next six months.

NEW LPA
PAGASA is currently monitoring a low-pressure area (LPA) that developed within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), which is expected to bring rain to Visayas and Mindanao.

In its 8:00 a.m. weather bulletin, the LPA was located 405 kilometers east of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, with a low chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.

PAGASA weather specialist Loriedin Dela Cruz said the LPA may either cross the landmass of Visayas and Mindanao or intensify into a tropical depression before making landfall.

“Either way, we expect it to bring significant rainfall and heavy showers to large parts of Visayas, Mindanao, and some areas of Southern Luzon,” Ms. Dela Cruz said during PAGASA’s 5:00 a.m. media briefing.

Taiwan Expo unveils on Sept. 17

Showcasing innovation, technology, and sustainability across 140 Taiwanese enterprises

With just one week to go, Taiwan Expo 2025 in the Philippines is set to transform the SMX Convention Center Manila Function Room 1-3 from Sept. 17-19 into a dynamic hub of international trade, innovation, and cross-border collaboration with Taiwan. Organized by the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA) and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), this flagship event highlights Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening commercial partnerships and fostering innovation-driven growth with the Philippines.

Bringing together over 140 leading Taiwanese companies, this year’s Expo will spotlight solutions across industries that align closely with the Philippines’ industrial upgrading and sustainability agenda. More than a trade fair, the three-day showcase has been designed as a strategic B2B platform for industry leaders, SMEs, and entrepreneurs to forge transformative partnerships that could shape the future trajectory of Philippine industries.

Five Specialized Themes

The Expo will feature innovations organized around five major themes:

  • Green & Sustainability — renewable energy solutions, battery innovations, HVAC equipment, fire safety technologies, and water treatment systems supporting the Philippines’ transition toward a low-carbon future.
  • Agritech & Aquatech — smart farming technologies, agri-processing tools, organic food products and cold chain-related solutions that leverage smart technology to improve the productivity and efficiency of agriculture and fisheries.
  • Health & Wellness — cutting-edge medical equipment, diagnostics, skincare and lifestyle essentials meeting the needs of an expanding consumer base.
  • Smart Technology — ICT solutions, automation systems, smart appliances, and advanced network equipment enabling digital transformation and competitiveness.
  • Intelligent Lifestyle — consumer-centric goods including fashion, home security systems, toys, and F&B products tailored to the evolving Filipino household.

These sectors mirror Taiwan’s global strengths while directly addressing the Philippines’ development priorities — making the Expo not just a showcase of products, but a platform for industrial synergy, knowledge exchange and long-term collaboration.

Business Matching Program

A highlight of the Expo is its enhanced business matching program, which has consistently delivered measurable trade outcomes in prior editions. This year, organizers are introducing a more curated system of pre-arranged and onsite 1-on-1 meetings, giving Filipino buyers and distributors streamlined access to Taiwanese enterprises to accelerate deal-making, supply chain collaborations, and cross-border ventures.

Industry-Centric Programs and Networking Sessions

Beyond exhibits, business professionals can look forward to product launch events showcasing pioneering Taiwanese innovations in healthcare, agritech, green technology, smart solutions, and lifestyle sectors. These sessions will emphasize real-world applications relevant to Philippine businesses seeking scalable and sustainable solutions. To enhance engagement, attendees who register, explore booths, join stage events and product launch will have the chance to win rewards through lucky draw promotions — blending business networking with a fun and interactive atmosphere.

Strategic Timing for Deeper Ties

Positioned as both a venue for product discovery and a strategic platform for collaboration, the Expo aims to spark cross-border investments, facilitate knowledge-sharing, and strengthen ASEAN supply chain resilience. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers are strongly encouraged to participate by registering for Taiwan Expo 2025 Philippines Business Matching and completing visitor pre-registration through Taiwan Expo 2025 platforms.

Taiwan Expo 2025 also presents a unique opportunity to meet distinguished personalities such as MANDARHYME DUO, Julius Cawaling, and Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray. Don’t miss the chance to meet with these celebrated guests in person at the Expo!

For updates and announcements, follow Taiwan Expo PH on Facebook at “Taiwan Expo in the Philippines” and on Instagram at “@taiwanexpo.ph.”

 

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DoTr extends MRT-3 deal with Japan’s Sumitomo

PHILIPPINE STAR/MICHAEL VARCAS

The Department of Transportation (DoTr) on Friday said it will extend its contract with the Japanese firm Sumitomo Corporation for the rehabilitation and maintenance of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) by another two years.

“We look forward to ensuring that MRT-3 continues to provide safe, reliable, and efficient service to our Filipino commuters and the riding public in general,” Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez said in a statement.

The additional two-year rehabilitation and maintenance agreement was signed by Mr. Lopez and Sumitomo Corporate Officer and General Manager Takeshi Noguchi. It covers essential MRT-3 system upgrades and repairs, as well as ongoing operational reliability.

The DoTr said these improvements aim to provide efficient and convenient rail services, reduce glitches and breakdowns, and shorten travel time.

Sumitomo Corp. completed the systems rehabilitation for the MRT-3 in December 2021, with continuing maintenance services until October 2025.

Since the Japanese firm took over the rail line’s rehabilitation and maintenance in 2019, the MRT-3 line was able to increase its operational trains from a low of 7 in 2018 to a high of 22 in 2022. It also enabled the deployment of up to 20 train sets during peak hours. — Almira Louise S. Martinez

MWSS approves Q4 water rate adjustments for Maynilad, Manila Water

PHILIPPINE STAR/EDD GUMBAN

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) board of trustees has approved fourth-quarter rate adjustments for Maynilad Water Services, Inc.. and Manila Water Co., Inc. to account for foreign exchange fluctuations.

In a statement on Friday, MWSS approved a hike of P0.14 per cubic meter (cu.m.) for Maynilad and a rebate of P0.15 per cu.m. for Manila Water.

Residential customers served by Maynilad who consume 10 cubic meters or less will pay an additional P0.40 in their monthly bills in the fourth quarter. Those who consume 20 cu.m. and 30 cu.m. will see their bills go up by P1.53 and P3.13, respectively.

Meanwhile, Manila Water customers who use 10 cu.m. or less will see their bills decline by P0.64 during the period. Those who consume an average of 20 cu.m. and 30 cu.m. will see a P1.43 and P2.91 reduction in their bills, respectively.

The FCDA is a tariff mechanism which allows water concessionaires to regain losses or return gains by the movement of peso against other foreign currencies. The water providers pay foreign currency-denominated concession fees to MWSS, as well as loans that are used to finance projects to expand and improve water and sewerage services.

Manila Water serves the east zone network of Metro Manila, covering parts of Marikina, Pasig, Makati, Taguig, Pateros, Mandaluyong, San Juan, portions of Quezon City and Manila, and several towns in Rizal province.

Maynilad serves parts of Manila, Quezon City, and Makati, as well as Caloocan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Valenzuela, Navotas, and Malabon. It also supplies water to the cities of Cavite, Bacoor, Imus, and the towns of Kawit, Noveleta, and Rosario in Cavite province.

Metro Pacific Investments Corp., which has a majority stake in Maynilad, is one of three Philippine units of First Pacific Co. Ltd., the others being Philex Mining Corp. and PLDT Inc. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera

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