Alas Pilipinas battles strong Thai team in the 5th SEA V-League

July 31, 2025 | 6:25 pm

THE TREK BACK to road towards Southeast Asian Games glory for Philippine women’s volleyball resumes as Alas Pilipinas clashes with regional powerhouse Thailand on Friday at the start of the first leg of the 5^th SEA V-League at the Terminal 21 Korat in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

The Filipinas, spearheaded by Jia de Guzman, Bella Belen, Angel Canino, Alyssa Solomon, Eya Laure, Thea Gagate, Vanie Gander and Fifi Sharma, will battle the Thais at 6 p.m. (Philippine time) with hopes of, at best, pulling off a shocker and, at worst, giving the perennial SEA Games gold winner a decent fight.

Also part of the team are Mars Alba, Justine Jazareno, Dawn Catindig, Shaina Nitura, Leila Cruz, Cla Loresca and Dell Palomata.

The Nationals clash with the Vietnamese next Saturday and then capped off its opening leg campaign with a duel versus the Indonesians Sunday.

It will be a short but sweet tournament as the nation with the best record after the single-round robin format captures the gold.

From Thailand, Alas flies to Ninh Binh, Vietnam for the second leg where it battles Vietnam on Aug. 8, Thailand on Aug. 9 and Indonesia on Aug. 10.

The country is hoping to continue to improve as it eyes a first medal in the SEA Games this December in Thailand since it snared a bronze exactly two decades ago when the country hosted the biennial meet in Bacolod. — Joey Villar

White House in crypto policy report calls for SEC action, new legislation

July 31, 2025 | 6:25 pm

A CRYPTOCURRENCY working group formed by President Donald J. Trump on Wednesday outlined the administration’s stances on market-defining crypto legislation and called on the U.S. securities regulator to create new rules specific to digital assets.

In a factsheet ahead of a landmark report, the White House urged Congress to move forward with legislation that would create a formal crypto regulatory regime, but implored lawmakers to include additional provisions in the bill. Those include allowing trading platforms to also custody crypto and providing a tailored disclosure regime for issuers of crypto securities.

The White House also encouraged the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to use their existing authorities to “immediately enable the trading of digital assets at the federal level.”

Shortly after taking office in January, Mr. Trump ordered the creation of a crypto working group tasked with proposing new regulations, making good on his campaign promise to overhaul US crypto policy.

Wednesday’s report is a culmination of the task force’s work so far and its first public findings. In line with Mr. Trump’s January executive order, it will lay out several new policies from tax provisions to capital markets rules that it says should be enacted to advance the policy goals of the pro-crypto White House.

The working group led by Mr. Trump official Bo Hines includes several administration officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, SEC Chair Paul Atkins, and Director of the Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought.

On the campaign trail last year, Mr. Trump courted crypto cash by pledging to be a “crypto president” and promote the adoption of digital assets. That is in stark contrast to former President Joseph R. Biden’s regulators, who, in a bid to protect Americans from fraud and money laundering, cracked down on the industry. The Biden administration sued exchanges Coinbase, Binance, and dozens more, alleging they were flouting US laws. Mr. Trump’s SEC has since dropped those cases.

MARKET STRUCTURE
Wednesday’s report comes just two weeks after the House of Representatives passed a bill called the Clarity Act that would create a broad regulatory guidelines for crypto, and the US Senate is considering its own version of the measure.

Earlier this month, Trump signed into law a bill to create federal rules for stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency pegged to the US dollar. That move was hailed as a major win for the digital asset industry, but the White House has said it wants Congress to pass market structure legislation like the Clarity Act next, which would have far wider repercussions for the industry.

The report will ask lawmakers to consider several additional measures in the final version of the bill, which could influence ongoing discussions on Capitol Hill.

The White House said that Congress should provide the CFTC with the authority to oversee crypto spot markets, and should recognize the potential of decentralized finance technology, referring to blockchain-based platforms that allow users to transact without intermediaries.

The report will also offer several recommendations for the SEC and the CFTC, encouraging the regulators to use safe harbors and regulatory sandboxes to allow “innovative financial products to reach consumers without bureaucratic delays.”

That could include tokenization, which is the process of turning financial assets — such as bank deposits, stocks, bond funds and even real estate — into crypto assets.

Crypto firms and others have been increasingly discussing the prospect of tokenization. Coinbase recently told Reuters it was seeking a green light from the SEC to offer blockchain-based stocks. The SEC has yet to weigh in publicly on that request.

The crypto sector has for years argued that existing US regulations are inappropriate for cryptocurrencies and has called for Congress and regulators to write new ones that clarify when a crypto token is a security, commodity, or falls into another category, such as stablecoins.

The president’s support for the crypto industry has sparked conflict-of-interest concerns, which at times have threatened to derail congressional crypto legislation. Mr. Trump’s family has launched cryptocurrency meme coins, and the president also holds a stake in World Liberty Financial, a crypto platform. The White House has denied that any conflicts of interest are present. — Reuters

WTA No. 69 Alex Eala withdraws from Cincinnati Open to rest injured shoulder ahead of US Open

July 31, 2025 | 6:25 pm

ALEXANDRA “ALEX” EALA has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open to rest her minor shoulder injury and ensure a tip-top shape for the US Open later this month.

No less than the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) broke the news on Thursday on Ms. Eala, who’s automatically seeded into the main draw of the Cincinnati tourney as the 65^th ranked player in the world.

The Cincinnati Open slated on Aug. 7 to 18 is the last WTA 1000 level tourney before the US Open on Aug. 24 to Sept. 7 in New York.

Mexico’s Renata Zarazua, Ms. Eala’s partner in the 2025 French Open doubles, will take her spot in the main draw.

Ms. Eala, with a kinesiology tape on her left shoulder, had the injury in her return to the hardcourt in the National Bank Open in Montreal, Canada earlier this week following a month-long vacation in the Philippines.

The 20-year-old Filipina ace braved the injury and snatched the first set from former Grand Slam champion Marketa Vondrousova of the Czech Republic, 6-3, only to run out of steam in the next two, 1-6, 2-6, for an early exit.

“Pretty in pink. Montreal was a short but sweet trip. I had so much fun out on court! Time to rest and recover,” said Ms. Eala on her social media post.

Ms. Eala, a lefty specialist now nursing a left shoulder injury, will shoot for a historic main draw victory in the US Open after foiled attempts in the French Open and Wimbledon.

She absorbed first-round exits in both Grand Slams but will have some added motivation by her side after scoring the country’s first-ever WTA final stint in the Eastbourne Open in England.

Ms. Eala also reigned supreme in the girls’ single division of the 2022 US Open to become the first Filipina junior Grand Slam champion ever for added fire in her bid.

But first things first for Ms. Eala and that’s to recuperate for more than three weeks before another shot at history. — John Bryan Ulanday

In Hiroshima, a schoolboy keeps memories of war alive with guided tours

July 31, 2025 | 6:24 pm

G7-SUMMIT — The Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, Japan. — BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/POOL VIA REUTERS

HIROSHIMA, Japan — Since the age of seven, Japanese schoolboy Shun Sasaki has been offering free guided tours to foreign visitors of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park with a mission: ensuring that the horrors of nuclear war do not fade from memory with the passage of time.

Aged 12 now, Shun has conveyed that message to some 2,000 visitors, recounting in his imperfect but confident English the experiences of his great-grandmother, a hibakusha who survived the atomic bomb.

“I want them to come to Hiroshima and know about what happened in Hiroshima on Aug. 6,” Shun said in English, referring to the day the bomb was dropped in 1945.

“I want them to know how bad is war and how good is peace. Instead of fighting, we should talk to each other about the good things of each other,” he said.

About twice a month, Shun makes his way to the peace park wearing a yellow bib with the words “Please feel free to talk to me in English!” splashed across the back, hoping to educate tourists about his hometown.

His volunteer work has earned him the honour of being selected as one of two local children to speak at this year’s ceremony to commemorate 80 years since the A-bomb was dropped — its first use in war.

Shun is now the same age as when his great-grandmother Yuriko Sasaki was buried under rubble when her house, about 1.5 km (0.9 mile) from the hypocenter, collapsed from the force of the blast. She died of colorectal cancer aged 69 in 2002, having survived breast cancer decades earlier.

The uranium bomb instantly killed about 78,000 people and by the end of 1945 the number of dead, including from radiation exposure, reached about 140,000. The US dropped a second atomic bomb on Nagasaki on Aug. 9.

Canadian Chris Lowe said Shun’s guided tour provided a level of appreciation that went beyond reading plaques on museum walls.

“To hear that about his family… it surely wrapped it up, brought it home and made it much more personal. So it was outstanding for him to share that,” he said.

Shun said he plans to continue with the tours as long as he can.

“The most dangerous thing is to forget what happened a long time ago… so I think we should pass the story to the next generation, and then, never forget it, ever again.” — Reuters

Filipinas eye Women’s World Cup slot despite AFC tough grouping

July 31, 2025 | 6:24 pm

FILIPINAS WOMEN’S FOOTBALL TEAM — FACEBOOK.COM/PILIPINASWNFT

COACH Mark Torcaso expressed confidence the Filipinas will step up to the plate in the face of a tough group assignment in next year’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup (WAC).

The recent draw put the Pinay booters in early collision course with host Australia and 2022 runner-up Korea as well as Iran in the dispute for Continental honors and tickets to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“I know our players will be up for the challenge. Every team here (WAC) is going to be a difficult opponent. It didn’t really matter who we were going to play, every game is going to be tough, and every game, we have to be extremely determined and focused to get an outcome,” Mr. Torcaso said.

The Filipinas, who finished fourth in the 2022 edition en route to their historic stint in the 2023 Women’s World Cup (WWC) in New Zealand, need to finish in the Top 6 of the 12-nation WAC in March to book a return trip to the global showpiece.

Initial objective for Mr. Torcaso’s charges is to advance to the quarterfinals as the topnotcher or runner up of Group A or the No. 1 or No. 2 squad among third placers across the three groups. Reaching the semifinals will lead to automatic qualification to the prestigious world meet; if not, a victory in the playoff matches for losing quarterfinalists will send them through.

“We are going to do our absolute best to bring World Cup opportunities back to our players and back to our country,” said Mr. Torcaso, looking to duplicate the feat of his predecessor Alen Stajcic, who brought the Filipinas to a milestone appearance and 2-0 upset of NZ in the previous WWC.

“We’ll be extremely determined and excited by making sure that we make this happen and we’ll do everything possible over the next few windows to make sure that we’re as prepared as possible,” he said. — Olmin Leyba

Trump’s use of tariffs faces legal test ahead of August 1 deadline

July 31, 2025 | 6:23 pm

Copy-of-1171017-Maersk-Evora-Selects_09 — IMAGE VIA THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES

The bulk of President Donald Trump’s global tariffs face their biggest test yet when a US appeals court weighs arguments on their legality Thursday, a day before higher rates against many countries are set to kick in.

The tariffs were allowed to stay in place temporarily even after the US trade court in May sided with a group of Democratic-led states and small businesses that claimed Trump wrongfully invoked an emergency law to justify the levies. Now, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit is set to weigh whether the tariffs are constitutional. A ruling is possible within weeks.

Trillions of dollars of global trade are embroiled in the legal fight. A loss for the government would raise questions about the validity of Trump’s recent trade deals. The administration also would be forced to contend with demands to refund tariffs that were already paid.

The cases is likely to wind up at the Supreme Court, drawing the justices into yet another fight this year over Trump’s agenda.

LEGALITY
The states and businesses are set to argue that only Congress has authority to issue tariffs and that the levies amount to a massive illegal tax on American companies and consumers who are footing most of the bill. The Trump administration will press its case that the president has broad authority to issue tariffs under a rarely used emergency law, and that his decisions cannot be reviewed by any court.

A 10% flat global tariff has been in effect while the litigation unfolds. Trump set an Aug. 1 deadline for a new round of rate hikes on imports from countries that haven’t struck deals with the US, insisting that no further extensions would be granted. The contested levies could be in place for weeks or months before there’s a final resolution, creating more financial uncertainty for businesses.

US trade negotiators continue to strike deals with nations eager to lower their tariffs. Trump has hailed agreements with Japan and the European Union in the past week, following recent deals with nations including the Philippines and Vietnam.

IEEPA
The appeals court will hold Thursday’s hearing with its entire slate of 11 active judges instead of a typical three-judge panel, meaning the ruling can immediately be appealed to the Supreme Court. Three of the judges were appointed by Republican presidents and eight by Democrats.

Trump issued a series of executive orders to announce his tariffs using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, a law that grants the president authority over a variety of financial transactions on an emergency basis. The states and businesses argue Trump’s use of IEEPA is illegal because the law doesn’t mention tariffs and is typically used to levy sanctions and asset freezes during national emergencies.

In February, Trump used the law to impose tariffs on China, Canada and Mexico, arguing that the flow of the drug fentanyl and illegal immigration into the US constituted a national emergency. The president then declared another national emergency over the persistent US trade deficit and invoked IEEPA to issue duties in April against virtually all US trading partners, his so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs.

The Trump administration said in a brief with the appeals court that Trump is exercising his tariff authority “consistent with his obligations under the Constitution.” The levies, the government argues, are “appropriate to address what he has determined are grave threats to the United States’s national security and economy.”

The states and businesses argue that trade deficits are a persistent part of the US economy and therefore not an emergency, and that the fentanyl-related tariffs are a dressed-up negotiating tactic rather than a legitimate effort to stem the flow of drugs.

“If he’s using unconstitutional powers to implement tariffs, those will be struck down,” said Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, whose office is leading the multi-state suit.

Trump has also imposed tariffs on specific sectors like autos and steel under an authority that allows him to do so on national security grounds — so-called 232 cases that trade lawyers consider to have a stronger legal foundation than the IEEPA duties.

At least 11 lawsuits have been filed this year over Trump’s tariff policies. Most are on hold until the Federal Circuit — and potentially the Supreme Court — weighs in.

Earlier in the week, the US trade court rejected a request to reinstate a tariff exemption that Trump got rid of for low-value goods from China, citing the fact that the cases before the Federal Circuit cover the same ground. Trump on Wednesday signed a new executive order ending the tariff exemption for low-value imports worldwide — a move expected to invite even more legal challenges. — Bloomberg

Charlie Woods vaults into contention at Junior PGA Championships

July 31, 2025 | 6:22 pm

CHARLIE WOODS vaulted into contention at the Junior PGA Championships with a 6-under par 66 in the second round in West Lafayette, Ind. on Wednesday.

After carding a 70 during the first round on the Kampen-Cosler Course at the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex, Woods birdied six of his first eight holes en route to making the turn in 5-under 31 on Wednesday. He birdied three of his first six holes on the back to reach 9 under for the event before consecutive bogeys dropped Woods back to 7 under.

He is seven shots behind leader Lunden Esterline, a 2027 Auburn commit, with Max VanderMolen and Chase Yenser tied at 9 under with 36 holes to play.

Woods, 16, failed to qualify for the match play rounds at last week’s US Junior Amateur Championship in Dallas. He is now seeking one of the two automatic spots on the Junior Ryder Cup team that will go to the top two finishers this week. There is also one captain’s pick, although Woods is likely not in line to be selected for it. — Reuters

After Shohei Ohtani leaves mound, Cincinnati Reds down Los Angeles Dodgers

July 31, 2025 | 6:22 pm

SPENCER STEER broke a tie with a two-run, two-out triple in the eighth inning as the Cincinnati Reds salvaged the finale of a three-game series with a 5-2 win over the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday.

Dodgers starter Shohei Ohtani exited as a pitcher after just three-plus innings. He flied out to Will Benson for the final out of the game, finishing 0-for-5 at the plate.

Three pitches after left fielder Andy Pages dropped a foul pop along the left field line, Steer drove the 11^th pitch of the at-bat from Emmet Sheehan (2-2) to deep center. James Outman, who entered the game as a defensive replacement to start the inning, leaped at the wall and had the ball bounce off his glove as Austin Hays and Tyler Stephenson scored for a 4-2 lead.

Benson, who made a pair of spectacular running catches in center, added an RBI single off Blake Treinen to increase the advantage to 5-2.

After dropping the first two games to the Dodgers, the Reds extended their streak to 35 series without being swept this season, the only major league team not to have been swept so far in 2025.

Reds reliever Scott Barlow (4-0) recorded the final two outs of the top of the eighth, escaping a bases-loaded, one-out jam. Tony Santillan pitched a scoreless ninth for his third save.

Ohtani was escorted from the mound by medical training staff after walking Tyler Stephenson and throwing two more balls to Spencer Steer in the fourth before manager Dave Roberts hurried out of the Dodgers’ dugout.

Ohtani, who had his second Tommy John surgery in September 2023, was making his seventh start of the season, and was into the fourth inning for the first time this season. He was charged with two runs on five hits and two walks with two strikeouts.

Anthony Banda entered the game, finishing a walk to Steer that was charged to Ohtani. Banda allowed a sacrifice fly to Benson but got out of the inning with the game tied 2-2.

Freddie Freeman hit a two-run homer for the Dodgers in the fourth inning off Nick Martinez, who allowed two runs on four hits in six innings. Martinez fanned seven and walked two.

Steer had two hits and two RBIs for the Reds, and Santiago Espinal also collected two hits. — Reuters

GS, Kuminga deadlock

July 31, 2025 | 6:20 pm

It would be a gross understatement to argue that the Golden State (GS) Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga are at an impasse. They have navigated the summer keeping their options open. He has spent it trying to close a few; he has declined the team’s $45-million offer through 2027, balking at a second-year team option and the removal of what he rightly viewed as a de facto no-trade clause. They aim for flexibility, he wants clarity, and the result has been a standoff that is slow-moving and yet pointed, between a franchise still trying to contend and a player no longer content to wait.

The impasse, first reported by ESPN, reflects a deeper disagreement about value, tangible or otherwise. Kuminga is pushing for clarity: a long-term commitment, a starting role, and a say in where he plays. Which is why his camp has put forth a three-year, $82-million proposal that includes a descending salary structure to help the Warriors navigate the tax apron. The latter said no, however, bent on creating as much room to maneuver as possible, no doubt for a bigger move down the line.

Needless to say, the market has reacted to the standoff. The Kings and Suns have offered four-year deals worth close to $90 million, with a player option in the final year and a promise of opportunity. Both have trade frameworks in place — sweeteners, picks, rotational pieces. So far, though, the Warriors haven’t bitten; they’re balking at the risk and the returns. And so they hold on to Kuminga’s restricted rights for leverage, but at a cost. Because of the uncertainty, they have been constrained from making any other move.

For all intents, the gridlock is made more prominent by the growing gap between the Warriors’ timeline and Kuminga’s desired career path. And since he’s betting on himself, he could very well take the $7.9-million qualifying offer, play it out, and hit unrestricted free agency next year. The flipside, of course, is that it’s a big gamble. Injury or inconsistency could cost him tens of millions of dollars. Even staying might mean him being showcased more for mere trade value than for lasting development. All told, it’s the kind of bet that works only if the win comes early.

In another year, or on another roster, the issue would have been resolved by now. Unfortunately, the Warriors are operating with a tighter margin, both in cap space and direction. Top dog Steph Curry is 37. Defensive anchor Draymond Green is 35. The window for success is becoming narrower and, at best, closing. Kuminga was envisioned to be the bridge. But if the team won’t commit, and if he won’t bend, that bridge may never be built. For now, both sides are still staring at it, waiting for the other to lay the first foundation.

Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside since BusinessWorld introduced a Sports section in 1994. He is a consultant on strategic planning, operations and human resources management, corporate communications, and business development.

Why consistency in policy matters for foreign investors

July 31, 2025 | 4:43 pm

It takes more than “attractive” taxes to entice foreign investments in the Philippines, according to an expert at PricewaterhouseCoopers Philippines.

“You also need good infrastructure,” said Ma. Lourdes P. Lim, vice chairman and tax managing partner of the professional services company. “Don’t also change the rules of the game in the middle of the game.”

While Ms. Lim acknowledged the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s efforts in tax enforcement, she suggested the need for a balanced approach that considers the taxpayer’s history and financial capacity.

“More can be done…especially on the side of tax assessments and tax investigations,” she told BusinessWorld.

Interview by Patricia Mirasol
Video editing by Jayson Mariñas

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The Nautilus at CaSoBe: Where coastal luxury meets smart investment in Batangas’ most iconic beachfront property

July 31, 2025 | 4:00 pm

1-OL — Experience the glorious beachfront sunset every day. The Nautilus is rising as part of the stunning 15-hectare Landco BeachTowns — CaSoBe, Calatagan South Beach. Photo credit: Mariano Sayno of The Beauty of the Philippines

As demand for premium coastal properties rises, Landco Pacific Corporation’s newest beachfront condotel The Nautilus, a bold 10-storey architectural icon, emerges as a timely and compelling opportunity in CaSoBe (Calatagan South Beach), a 15-hectare master-planned beach estate in Batangas.

Inspired by Jules Verne’s legendary submarine, The Nautilus blends dramatic design with the tranquility of refined coastal living, delivering a distinctive lifestyle offering that also serves as a strategic investment.

With its prime beachfront location, thoughtfully curated resort amenities, and future-forward sustainability features, The Nautilus redefines the essence of modern leisure — where elevated living meets long-term value by the sea.

Year-round summer vibe. The Nautilus at Landco BeachTowns CaSoBe. Photo credit: Mariano Sayno of The Beauty of the Philippines

Here are 11 compelling reasons why The Nautilus stands out as a premier investment opportunity:

Award-Winning Developer with Proven Legacy
With over 30 years of expertise in developing upscale leisure communities — behind landmark projects like Punta Fuego and Playa Calatagan — Landco continues to set the standard for luxury coastal living.

Recognized as a Highly Commended Best Lifestyle Developer at the 2024 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, Landco also shares the spotlight with its Chairman, business icon Manuel V. Pangilinan, named 2024 Real Estate Personality of the Year.

The Nautilus at CaSoBe — iconic beachfront condotel inspired by Jules Vernes’ futuristic submarine, a blend of contemporary and luxury leisure living.

Its latest beachfront projects, such as The Spinnaker at Club Laiya and The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, are earning global acclaim — bagging Asia Pacific and International Property Awards for excellence and sustainability. The same pedigree of innovation and prestige now defines The Nautilus at CaSoBe.

Prime Beachfront Location in a 4-Star Resort Estate in Calatagan, Batangas

Just 2–3 hours from Metro Manila, The Nautilus sits at the heart of CaSoBe — Calatagan South Beach — a master-planned beach tourism estate designed for leisure and lifestyle. Strategically located within a 4-star resort, it offers residents daily access to resort-style living, with white sand beaches, vibrant amenities, and a serene coastal environment. Surrounded by golf courses, polo fields, and nearby essentials like hospitals, markets, and schools, it’s the perfect blend of escape and convenience.

The Horizon pool deck of The Nautilus beckons as a stylish and sophisticated swimming pool of a seemingly cruise ship on the beachfront.

1. 1. 1. Hassle-Free Passive Income Through Rental Pool Program
      Investors gain full ownership of titled condo units, with the option to join the Landco Lifestyle Ventures rental pool. The condotel will be operated as premium hotel complete with amenities, offering seamless management while providing unit owners with a dependable stream of rental income.
    2. Iconic and World-Class Design
      Inspired by a ship anchored ashore, The Nautilus is designed by internationally acclaimed firms Pomeroy Studio (Singapore) and Visionarch (Philippines). Every unit offers floor-to-ceiling windows, generous 2.8-meter ceiling heights, balconies with ocean views, and access to expansive resort amenities.
    3. Versatile Investment Options for Various Needs
      The Nautilus offers 171 residential units and 5 commercial units, including studios, one- to three-bedroom suites, and lofts — ranging from 38 sq.m. to 183 sq.m. Commercial spaces up to 235 sq.m. are also available. These flexible unit options cater to individuals, families, and business-minded investors.
      
      The grand entrance of The Nautilus
    4. Premium Hotel Amenities by Landco Lifestyle Ventures
      From curated dining outlets and infinity pools to spas and gyms, The Nautilus delivers a resort experience unlike any other. Highlights include The Abyss Spa, The Observatory rooftop deck, The Captain’s Hideout bar, The Engine Room gym, and the Horizon Pool Deck with panoramic sea views.
    5. A Lifestyle Enhanced by CaSoBe’s Iconic Amenities
      From the thrills of Aquaria Water Park to the charm of Crusoe Cabins along with other unique accommodations and the scenic CaSoBe Lighthouse, residents of The Nautilus live with front-row access to the estate’s most beloved destinations. Perfect for weekend escapes, digital workcations, and beachfront celebrations — all within a vibrant resort community.
      
      The Nautilus loft with a relaxing view of the sea
    6. Proven Capital Appreciation in Landco Projects
      Landco developments have demonstrated significant long-term value, with Punta Fuego appreciating over 1,000% since the 1990s. The Nautilus continues this legacy, offering investors the opportunity to be part of the next success story.
    7. Built for Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
      EDGE Registered, The Nautilus integrates green technology — from rooftop solar panels and recycled building materials to water-saving fixtures and EV charging stations. Natural ventilation, LED lighting, and low-carbon cement contribute to a future-forward, eco-conscious design.
    8. Lifestyle + Legacy Investment
  The Nautilus isn’t just a property — it’s a legacy. It offers a multi-generational asset where families can create memories, investors can generate income, and owners can enjoy the best of coastal luxury in one of the country’s most scenic locations.
  
  The impressive lobby of The Nautilus
2. 1. Wellness by the Water: Natural Healing in a Blue Space
  Living by the sea isn’t just beautiful, it’s good for beachcombers, visitors and residents alike. Studies show that coastal settings promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support better sleep. At The Nautilus, the sound of the waves, wide open views, and fresh sea air create a calming environment that restores the mind and body. Whether it’s a quiet walk on the beach, a swim, or time at the spa, wellness comes naturally, right outside your door.
  
  For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation and The Nautilus, visit https://www.landco.ph/ or https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.
  
  Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
  
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Australia wipes $10 billion off student loans, targeting cost of living relief

July 31, 2025 | 1:03 pm

SYDNEY – Australia’s parliament on Thursday passed a law to cut student loans by 20%, wiping more than A$16 billion ($10.31 billion) in debt for 3 million people, and fulfilling a key election promise to help mitigate the rising cost of living.

The law is the first passed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s center-left Labor Party since being re-elected in May with one of the country’s largest-ever majorities.

“We promised cutting student debt would be the first thing we did back in parliament – and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” Mr. Albanese said in a statement.

“Getting an education shouldn’t mean a lifetime of debt.”

Education Minister Jason Clare said the measure would help “take a weight” off the backs of young people.

“Young Australians don’t always see something for them on the ballot paper, but they did this year and they voted for it in their millions,” he said at a press conference.

“And we’re repaying now the trust that these young Australians have placed in us.”

Millennials and Generation Z made up 43% of the 18 million people enrolled to vote in Australia’s May general election, outnumbering Baby Boomers.

Seizing on the generational shift, Labor made cutting student debt a key election promise, framing it as a measure to ease living costs and tackle intergenerational inequality.

The government said reducing student loans by one-fifth was equivalent to more than A$16 billion in debt relief for three million Australians.

It would mean a university graduate with an average loan of A$27,600 would have A$5,520 wiped, the government said, adding the changes would be backdated from June 1, 2025, before the loans were indexed 3.2% for inflation.

The law would also raise the minimum repayment threshold from an income of A$54,435 to A$67,000, reducing the amount low-income earners would have to pay. — Reuters