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Foreign debt service bill falls 3.43% in first eight months

US one-hundred-dollar notes are seen in this picture illustration taken in Seoul Feb. 7, 2011. — REUTERS

DEBT SERVICE on foreign loans fell 3.43% year on year in the first eight months as both principal and interest payments declined, according to preliminary data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The debt service bill came in at $8.427 billion at the end of August, it said, with principal payments falling 7.89% to $3.212 billion. Interest payments fell 0.44% to $5.215 billion.

August was the third straight month that the debt service bill on foreign loans came in lower.

“This is largely a function of (the) reduced share of foreign borrowings to the total borrowing mix in recent years,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said via Viber.

However, he added that a wider budget deficit could still increase the National Government’s (NG) local and foreign debt, but noted that risk of foreign exchange losses could prevent external borrowing from ballooning further.

The fiscal deficit was P248.1 billion in September, widening 9.22% from a year earlier and nearly triple the P84.8-billion deficit in August.  

For this year, the NG plans to source 81% or P2.11 trillion of its P2.6-trillion financing from local lenders this year. It previously observed a 75:25 borrowing mix in 2024 in favor of domestic creditors.

The debt service bill represents principal and interest payments after rescheduling, according to the BSP.

This includes principal and interest payments on fixed medium- and long-term credits, including International Monetary Fund credits, loans covered by the Paris Club and commercial bank rescheduling, and New Money Facilities. It also covers interest payments on fixed and revolving short-term liabilities of banks and nonbanks.

However, the debt service data exclude prepayments on future years’ maturities of foreign loans and principal payments on fixed and revolving short-term liabilities of banks and nonbanks.

As of June, the debt service burden as a share of gross domestic product (GDP) stood at 2.9%, slightly lower than 3.2% seen a year ago.

Based on latest central bank data, the country’s outstanding external debt reached $148.873 billion in the first half, with $94.801 billion coming from the public sector and $54.072 billion from the private sector.

This brought the external debt-to-GDP ratio to 31.2% at end-June, up from the 28.9% recorded a year earlier.

The BSP’s external debt data cover borrowings of Philippine residents from nonresident creditors, regardless of sector, maturity, creditor type, debt instruments or currency denomination.

The central bank gathers data on external debt through reports submitted by borrowers, banks, and major foreign creditors.

Mr. Ricafort said the NG could narrow its budget deficit and reduce its need to borrow more from local and foreign lenders if it implements genuine anti-corruption measures in the face of the corruption scandal that has beset flood control projects. 

“If the anti-corruption reforms are taken seriously, this would lead to more disciplined government spending in terms of reduced leakage, thereby would lead to narrower budget deficits and reduced need for additional NG borrowing, both local and foreign,” he said.

He also noted that Federal Reserve rate action could help reduce Philippine interest payments.

Last month, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 25 basis points (bps) for a second time in a row, bringing it to the 3.75-4% range. This brought its total cuts to 150 bps since September 2024. — Katherine K. Chan

PHL a laggard in AI returns due to legacy data practices — Boomi

STOCK PHOTO | Image from Freepik

By Beatriz Marie D. Cruz, Reporter

PHILIPPINE companies struggle to reap the benefits of their artificial intelligence (AI) investments after failing to shed their legacy practices in gathering and organizing data, according to US integration and automation firm Boomi.

“If you look at the Philippines themselves, chief executive officers are talking about boosting AI adoption, but they struggle, like many companies across Southeast Asia (and) the Asia-Pacific as a whole, with the RoI (return on investments) because of those weak data foundations,” David Irecki, chief technology officer for Asia-Pacific and Japan at Boomi, said in a virtual interview.

Citing the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development’s policy note on AI, Mr. Irecki noted that many firms in the Philippines still rely on manual data collection.

“As a result, the data that would be really valuable to provide context for the AI platform is unavailable,” he said.

Data quality is also key challenge for Philippine companies, especially in rural areas, Mr. Irecki added.

Companies that struggle with data quality and liquidity will have a hard time scaling AI beyond pilot-testing, he said.

“When agents are acting on incomplete data or they make unexplainable decisions, companies have to start worrying about error scaling.”

Mr. Irecki said an AI-ready company has digitized and discoverable data; can easily integrate AI technology across workflows; and has governance and security measures in place.

He also cited the need to balance AI autonomy with accountability by deploying human auditors for AI agents.

“Otherwise, you’re scaling the risk and not the value within your business,” Mr. Irecki said.

“The idea is you’re using AI not to automate what you already do, but  to create systems that can adapt as conditions change,” Mr. Irecki said.

AI technologies can generate P1.8 trillion in economic benefits for Philippine companies with improved  digital access and skills training, according to a report by Google Philippines and consulting firm Public First.

Substandard steel seized in Central Luzon, Calabarzon regions valued at over P3 million

STOCK PHOTO | Image by Ricardo Gomez Angel from Unsplash

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) confiscated over P3.5 million worth of substandard steel products in Central Luzon and Calabarzon.

The DTI is hoping “to rid the market of unsafe construction materials,” the Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI) said in a statement over the weekend.

Since the start of the year, the DTI’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) has seized over 23,000 pieces of deformed rebar in the two regions, which make up the immediate hinterland of Metro Manila.

“These products — sold by over 200 firms — were discovered in inspections the FTEB conducted in Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Rizal,” PISI said.

The products were found to have failed to meet the minimum mechanical and dimensional requirements, including tensile strength, elongation, and proper manufacturer markings.

PISI said that substandard materials pose a threat to infrastructure, especially during calamities.

“Substandard steel can deform or break under load, increasing the risk of structural failure in homes, high-rise buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, especially during earthquakes, strong winds, or heavy usage,” it said.

According to PISI, FTEB Acting Director Marimel D. Porciuncula will be charging Flores Commercial and Wan Chiong Steel for selling non-compliant deformed bars based on FTEB testing.

PISI President Ronald C. Magsajo said steel manufacturers are being encouraged by the FTEB’s initiative to go after sellers of substandard steel and other construction materials.

“We continue to support the government’s drive to ensure public safety by removing substandard steel from the market and penalizing retailers and manufacturers found to be non-compliant with Fair Trade Laws,” he added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile

Digital platforms expected to improve exporter visibility among foreign buyers

STOCK PHOTO | Image from Freepik

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it will launch digital platforms which it hopes will improve exporter visibility among overseas buyers.

In a statement, the DTI said that it will be launching the origin management system (OMS) and the PHX Source at the National Export Congress in December.

A web-based system, OMS digitalizes and streamlines the application and issuance of the product evaluation report (PER), which is required to avail of preferential tariffs.

“Developed under the partnership between the DTI and the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), OMS (is expected) to improve processes and address the constraints in the manual application of PER,” it said.

Meanwhile, PHX Source is an online export directory developed with QSweep Tech Services.

“Our goal is to provide exporters with the right tools and digital platforms to help them thrive in the global marketplace. OMS and PHX Source are part of our commitment to trade facilitation and strengthening our exporters’ capacity to compete, connect, and collaborate across borders,” Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) Director Bianca Pearl R. Sykimte said.

During the National Export Congress, the EMB will be presenting its export promotion programs and initiatives for 2026.

Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. President Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr. said the event offers an opportunity to support the export industry and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“It is fitting that we try to help them be more productive and resilient by building up and strengthening the ecosystem within which they operate. We consistently say that exports remain our best bet, and we need to look at developing exports and MSMEs as investments rather than an expense,” he said. — Justine Irish D. Tabile

Zamboanga, Visayas closed season starts for sardine, mackerel species

PHILSTAR FILE PHOTO

THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said the closed fishing season has started for sardine and mackerel around the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Visayan Sea.

Between Nov. 15 and Feb. 15, sardine commercial fishing using the purse seine, ring net, bag net and scoop net methods are prohibited within the conservation area around Zamboanga waters, covering parts of the East Sulu Sea, Basilan Strait and Sibuguey Bay.

The conservation area spans 6,481.80 square nautical miles, or 22,260.36 square kilometers, covering the western municipal and national waters of Zamboanga del Norte, the waters bordering the south and east of Zamboanga City, and southern Zamboanga Sibugay.

In the Visayan Sea, the catching, selling and buying of sardines, mackerel and herring has also been restricted, until Feb. 15.

The BFAR said in a statement that the prohibitions are intended to conserve and protect these economically important species while they spawn.

The BFAR earlier lifted the 45-day ban on catching Ludong (Cestraeus sp.), known as the “President’s Fish,” following the end of its closed season on Nov. 15.

The Ludong closed fishing season ran from Oct. 1 to Nov. 15. It covered the Cagayan River and its tributaries.

“The annual closed fishing season … is part of ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the Ludong population, (whose) numbers have been declining because of habitat degradation, illegal fishing practices and other detrimental human activities,” BFAR Region 2 said in a statement. — Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel

Trust, transformation, and transparency in tax

IN BRIEF:

• The SGV 4th Tax Symposium highlighted the urgent need for trust and transparency in the economy, emphasizing that these elements are foundational for sustainable governance and economic progress.

• Leaders from both public and private sectors gathered to discuss strategies for transforming compliance into confidence, highlighting the significant losses due to corruption, and promoting initiatives that streamline processes and enhance accountability.

• The symposium showcased various reforms, including the Real Property Information System and the Investment Facilitation Network, which aim to create a more efficient and transparent tax ecosystem, ultimately positioning the Philippines as a premier investment destination.

In today’s world stage, trust is not just a virtue — it’s the foundation of progress, and transparency is essential for sustainable governance. As businesses navigate uncertainties and governments confront the realities of corruption, the need for transformation has never been more urgent.

In SGV’s 4th Tax Symposium, which had the theme “From Compliance to Confidence: Trust, Transformation, and Transparency,” leaders came together with a clear purpose: to turn compliance into a driver of confidence and to shape a future guided by integrity in every economic decision.

The symposium called on leaders from both public and private sectors to reduce inefficiencies and embrace digitalization.

INSIGHTS FROM CURRENT CORRUPTION ISSUES
The symposium discussed the impact of corruption, with an estimated P1.7 trillion or around $27.5 billion lost (based on various news reports) over the last decade, that could have built thousands of classrooms, modernized healthcare systems, and uplifted millions of lives.

True transformation starts with action. It is essential to move beyond mere observation and actively foster cultural and behavioral change. As I mentioned in my opening message, “No matter how small our effort may seem, we will not sit on the sidelines. We will help change culture. We will help shift behavior. We will pursue transparency so that trust and confidence — both domestic and foreign — can be earned and maintained. Because transformation is not passive. It demands courage.”

Embracing this challenge is vital for building a foundation of trust that can withstand the complexities of today’s interconnected world.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
In his keynote message, Undersecretary Charlito Martin R. Mendoza of the Department of Finance (DoF), who was recently appointed as the new Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining fiscal integrity and modernizing tax administration.

He acknowledged recent corruption scandals and assured the private sector of the administration’s sweeping reforms to restore trust in public institutions.

Emphasizing the commitment to fostering a business environment characterized by trust and transparency, he articulated a vision for a tax ecosystem that goes beyond mere compliance and is globally competitive, fundamentally fair, and perpetually stable.

He highlighted key initiatives that include a refined Medium-Term Fiscal Program aimed at reducing deficits while ensuring funding for essential services, the full implementation of the Electronic Invoicing System (EIS) designed to capture transactions in real time and help minimize audit delays, and an enhanced National Single Window System streamlining trade facilitation and reducing human intervention.

These initiatives aim to cut through bureaucratic obstacles, reduce compliance costs, and make compliance feel like a natural part of doing business.

ARTA AND THE INVESTMENT FACILITATION NETWORK
The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), a government agency tasked with streamlining government processes to promote the ease of doing business and deliver efficient government services, recognizes that visibility is fundamental to building trust.

To this end, ARTA has developed digital platforms such as the Philippine Business Regulations Information System and the Electronic Business One-Stop Shop, which are designed to empower stakeholders and streamline processes. This initiative signifies a clear transition from bureaucratic red tape to a more welcoming “red carpet” for investors.

Success stories in regulatory reform were highlighted, notably the significant reduction in the time it takes to grant permits for telecom towers, which decreased from approximately 300 days to just 59 days, representing an 80.33% drop attributed to Executive Order 32.

To reinforce the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability, ARTA Director General Ernesto V. Perez introduced Transparency, Accountability, and Law in Action (TALA), an AI-powered complaint system and upcoming task force aimed at combating corruption. In his presentation, he emphasized the importance of collaboration, urging all stakeholders to remain proactive in ensuring integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service.

Similarly, the symposium showcased the Investment Facilitation Network (INFA-Net), a comprehensive government initiative launched in 2024 aimed at streamlining investment processes across 38 agencies and local government units (LGUs). The initiative aims to create a more agile and transparent investment climate aligned with the Bagong Pilipinas Vision. This is accomplished by establishing green lanes and implementing the 3-7-20 rule, which prescribes that simple transactions must be completed within three calendar days, complex transactions within seven days, and highly technical transactions within 20 days.

DRIVING GROWTH THROUGH INNOVATION AND TAX REFORM
As part of their efforts to modernize local fiscal management and enhance property valuation transparency, Executive Director (ED) Consolacion Q. Agcaoili of the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) discussed the Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act (RPVARA) and the rollout of the Real Property Information System (RPIS).

Maintained by BLGF, the RPIS will serve as a comprehensive database for all real property transactions, enabling local government unit (LGU) assessors to develop more accurate and updated schedules of market values. This system is expected to enhance the efficiency and reliability of property assessments.

National Government agencies will have free access to the RPIS, while private sector users will pay a fee to cover maintenance costs, reducing the need for ongoing budget support.

Mr. Agcaoili said the RPIS is currently 90% complete, with development still ongoing. However, by 2026, the RPIS will be fully rolled out to local assessors, who will undergo training to effectively use both the RPIS and the Computer-Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) system, which uses statistical models to value large numbers of properties for tax purposes.

By the same token, PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga emphasized PEZA’s commitment to positioning the Philippines as a premier investment destination, extending to beyond merely providing incentives.

He highlighted the CREATE MORE Act as a landmark tax reform that gives investors confidence through competitive incentives, making the country more attractive compared to its ASEAN peers.

PEZA has automated most of its processes, introducing innovations such as the PEZA One-Stop Portal System and the EcoZone Transfer System. These initiatives are designed to simplify transactions, cut red tape, reduce transaction costs, and provide real-time visibility and accountability for both government and investors. This strategic focus on enhancing the investment environment is intended to foster a climate where compliance translates into confidence, ultimately fueling sustainable progress for the country.

SGV TAX VISION
As leaders from both the public and private sectors convened to address the pressing need for transformation, the discussions at the 4th Tax Symposium underscored the critical nature of trust in fostering a robust economic environment. This was reiterated with a reintroduction of the SGV Tax Vision, which aims to develop a tax ecosystem where compliance is encouraged, collaboration with regulators is prioritized, and integrity among tax practitioners is upheld. This vision serves as a guiding principle for achieving these goals.

By fostering an investment climate that not only attracts businesses but also nurtures them, the Philippines can emerge as a leading destination for investment in the region. This holistic approach to governance and fiscal management is essential for building a foundation of trust, facilitating the transformative changes needed to establish a sustainable and effective tax ecosystem that will support the nation’s growth and prosperity.

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice where the facts and circumstances warrant. The views and opinions expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of SGV & Co. Jules E. Riego is the tax leader of SGV & Co.

 

Jules E. Riego is the tax leader of SGV & Co.

China Coast Guard ships sail through Japan’s Senkaku Islands

ONE of the seven China Coast Guard ships monitored by the Philippine Coast Guard during the resupply mission. — PCG

BEIJING — A China Coast Guard ship formation passed through the waters of the Senkaku Islands on Sunday on a “rights enforcement patrol,” the China Coast Guard said in a statement, as Beijing ramps up tensions with Japan over its prime minister’s remarks on Taiwan.

A diplomatic spat between China and Japan has intensified since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament on Nov. 7 that a hypothetical Chinese attack on democratically ruled Taiwan could trigger a military response from Tokyo.

The remarks sparked an angry response from Beijing, which has signaled that it expects Ms. Takaichi to retract them in some fashion.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to take control of the island, which sits just 110 km (68.35 miles) from Japanese territory. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.

“China Coast Guard vessel 1307 formation conducted patrols within the territorial waters of the Diaoyu Islands. This was a lawful patrol operation conducted by the China Coast Guard to uphold its rights and interests,” the statement said.

China and Japan have repeatedly faced off around the Japan-administered islands, which Beijing calls Diaoyu and Tokyo calls the Senkaku.

The Japanese Embassy in Beijing did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Japan has been facing mounting pressure from China since Ms. Takaichi made her remarks, with China’s Consul General in Osaka commenting: “The dirty head that sticks itself out must be cut off,” prompting a formal protest from Tokyo.

Beijing then summoned the Japanese ambassador for the first time in more than two years, and China’s defense ministry declared that any Japanese intervention would be doomed to fail.

On Friday, China cautioned its citizens against traveling to Japan, prompting Tokyo to urge Beijing to take “appropriate measures” though it did not elaborate.

Three Chinese airlines said on Saturday that tickets to Japan could be refunded or changed for free.

In Taiwan, the defense ministry said on Sunday morning it had detected 30 Chinese military aircraft operating around the island and seven navy ships over the past 24 hours.

Late on Saturday, the ministry said China had been carrying out another “joint combat patrol” to “harass the air space and sea around us.” It added Taiwan had sent its own aircraft and ships to monitor the situation. Taiwan reports such Chinese patrols a couple of times a month as part of what Taipei says is an ongoing military pressure campaign.

Taiwan’s government says only the island’s people can decide its future.

Japanese leaders have previously avoided publicly mentioning Taiwan when discussing such scenarios, maintaining a “strategic ambiguity” also favored by Tokyo’s main security ally, the United States. — Reuters

Saudi Arabia scales back salary premiums for foreign talent, recruiters say

REUTERS

ABU DHABI — Saudi firms are scaling back generous salary premiums that once lured top foreign talent into sectors such as construction and manufacturing as the kingdom reins in spending and reorders economic priorities, four recruiters told Reuters.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s top oil exporter, is more than halfway through its economic transformation blueprint, known as Vision 2030, aimed at reducing dependence on hydrocarbon income, creating jobs, and expanding industries such as tourism, real estate, mining and financial services.

As part of the long-term plan, the kingdom has invested massively in multibillion-dollar megaprojects, vastly increasing demand for high-skilled foreign workers, but has struggled with execution and delays.

Foreign recruits should no longer expect to negotiate premiums of 40% or more, to sometimes even double their existing salaries, which were common earlier this decade, two of the sources said, with offers far more restrained now.

“On the one hand you have the region’s biggest economy rationalizing and on the other side, you have a huge supply of candidates who are very open to coming to the region,” said Magdy Al Zein, managing director at recruiter Boyden.

“So what you get is employers rethinking packages. That definitely has happened.”

KINGDOM PIVOTING TOWARD AI, LOGISTICS
The change reflects a broader pivot by Saudi Arabia’s $925-billion Public Investment Fund (PIF), which took a sizeable hit on its infrastructure and real estate-heavy megaprojects, towards sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), logistics and mining, seen as offering better returns.

Examples include NEOM, a $500-billion planned futuristic city in the desert, and the mountain tourism hub Trojena, host to the 2029 Asian Winter Games.

The PIF and NEOM did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Saudi Arabia hired heavily for the megaprojects, targeting international talent with skills scarce in the local workforce. Project managers in the neighboring United Arab Emirates (UAE), for example, could get offers of around $100,000 in Saudi Arabia for roles that paid $60,000 in the UAE, said Hasan Babat, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dubai-based Tuscan Middle East, a recruitment consultancy.

NEOM and other PIF-backed ventures now face delays as the kingdom pursues a rationalization drive. Saudi project activity remained sluggish in 2025, with awards nearly halving in the first nine months, according to Kamco Invest.

Lower oil prices have weighed on public finances, widening the fiscal deficit, even as Saudi Arabia has curbed crude production to support the oil market. The kingdom needs oil prices at close to $100 to balance its budget, the International Monetary Fund says.

“The pace of development has slowed and this has led to a slowdown in recruitment. Now employers are negotiating salaries more than before, when there was a shortage, and companies have implemented cost-conscious measures,” Mr. Babat said.

Saudi companies may direct limited budgets towards “hot jobs” in sectors such as AI or digital, Tuscan’s October salary report said.

The UAE, the Gulf’s business and tourism hub, with a 90% expatriate population, has been a more attractive choice for many high-skilled workers, drawn not only by high, tax-free salaries but a more established network of international schools and healthcare provision.

It has also implemented social reforms to permit a more liberal lifestyle.

There is little difference now between average salaries in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with only a 5% to 8% uptick on average, said Trefor Murphy, CEO of Dubai-based Cooper Fitch.

“Convincing people to move from the UAE is a challenge, they expect a high premium,” Boyden’s Mr. Al Zein said.

GROWING COMPETITION FOR JOBS IN SAUDI
But Saudi Arabia — estimated to grow 4.4% this year — remains attractive for those outside the region, where the job market is tighter and growth is slower.

The Saudi government has also accelerated labor market reforms and initiatives to boost the proportion of citizens in the private sector, increasing competition and the pool of applicants.

Unemployment among Saudi citizens is at a historic low and the number of Saudis in the private sector grew 31% between 2016 and the second quarter of this year.

“Packages are now far more measured, anchored to data, performance, and real market benchmarks. For some, that feels like contraction. For me, it signals maturity,” said Louise Knutsson, CEO of Matches Talent in Dubai.

To attract the best talent to Saudi Arabia, companies would need to offer predictable packages reflective of living costs, a balanced lifestyle for families and a clear purpose connected to the scale of what is being built, Ms. Knutsson added. ($1 = 3.6729 UAE dirham). — Reuters

Britain announces largest asylum policy overhaul in modern times

REUTERS

LONDON — Britain said on Saturday it would launch the largest overhaul of policy on asylum seekers in modern times, drawing inspiration from Denmark’s approach, one of the toughest in Europe and widely criticized by rights groups.

The Labor government has been hardening its immigration policies, particularly on illegal small-boat crossings from France, as it seeks to stem the surging popularity of the populist Reform UK party, which has driven the immigration agenda and forced Labor to adopt a tougher line.

As part of the changes, the statutory duty to provide support to certain asylum seekers, including housing and weekly allowances, will be revoked, the Home Office (interior ministry) said in a statement.

The department, led by Shabana Mahmood, said the measures would apply to asylum seekers who can work but choose not to, and to those who break the law. It said that taxpayer-funded support would be prioritized for those contributing to the economy and local communities.

Ms. Mahmood is expected to provide further details on Monday about the measures, which the Home Office says are designed to make Britain less attractive to illegal migrants and make it easier to remove them.

“This country has a proud tradition of welcoming those fleeing danger, but our generosity is drawing illegal migrants across the Channel,” Ms. Mahmood said. “The pace and scale of migration is placing immense pressure on communities.”

More than 100 British charities wrote to Ms. Mahmood urging her to “end the scapegoating of migrants and performative policies that only cause harm,” saying such steps are fueling racism and violence.

Polls suggest immigration has overtaken the economy as voters’ top concern. Some 109,343 people claimed asylum in the UK in the year ending March 2025, a 17% rise on the previous year and 6% above the 2002 peak of 103,081.

UK GOVERNMENT INSPIRED BY DENMARK, OTHER EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
The Home Office said its reforms would be inspired not only by Denmark but other European countries, where refugee status is temporary, support is conditional and integration is expected.

“The UK will now match and in some areas exceed these standards,” the department said.

Earlier this year, a delegation of senior Home Office officials visited Copenhagen to study Denmark’s approach to asylum, where migrants are only granted temporary residence permits, usually for two years, and must reapply when these expire.

If the Social Democratic Danish government deems their home country safe, asylum seekers can be repatriated. The path to citizenship has also been lengthened and made more difficult, with stricter rules for family reunification.

Among other measures, 2016 legislation allows Danish authorities to seize asylum seekers’ valuables to offset support costs.

Britain currently grants asylum to those who can prove they are unsafe at home, with refugee status given to those deemed to be at risk of persecution. The status lasts for five years, after which they can apply for permanent settlement if they meet certain criteria.

Denmark has been known for its tough immigration policies for over a decade, which the Home Office says have reduced asylum claims to a 40-year low and resulted in the removal of 95% of rejected applicants.

RIGHTS GROUPS SAY DENMARK’S POLICY UNDERMINES PROTECTION
Britain’s Refugee Council said on X that refugees do not compare asylum systems while fleeing danger, and that they come to the UK because of family ties, some knowledge of English, or existing connections that help them start anew safely.

Anti-immigration sentiment has been growing in the UK, with protests taking place this summer outside hotels sheltering asylum seekers with state funding.

Such sentiment has also spread across the European Union (EU) since over a million people — mostly Syrian refugees — arrived via the Mediterranean in 2015-16, straining infrastructure in some countries. Unable to agree on how to share responsibility, EU member states have focused on returns and reducing arrivals.

Denmark’s reforms, implemented while it remains a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights, have drawn significant criticism, with rights groups saying the measures foster a hostile climate for migrants, undermine protection and leave asylum seekers in prolonged uncertainty. — Reuters

Petron introduces new Sprint Scooter Oil — ‘Subok Sa Bawat Ride’

Petron Corp., the country’s leading oil company and a trusted name among Filipino motorists, proudly introduces Petron Sprint Scooter Oil, the newest product in its motorcycle engine oil line. Designed specifically for scooter engines, it delivers reliable performance and protection that Filipino riders can count on every day.

Petron Knows You

Across the Philippines, more and more riders are taking to the road on scooters. They are easier to maneuver, making them ideal and practical for navigating traffic or traveling long distances. For millions of Filipinos, owning a scooter is not just about convenience — it represents freedom, independence, and control over their time.

Having your own motorcycle gives you true freedom of mobility. You are no longer limited by the schedule or routes of public transportation. You can leave whenever you need to and go wherever you have to.

Whether it’s heading to work, taking care of your family, running errands, or going for a weekend ride just to unwind, having a scooter makes daily life easier and more flexible. It is not just a ride — it is a tool that helps you move faster and live more independently every day, but it also comes with responsibilities like maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs, but that is all part of taking good care of your motorcycle.

Every day on the road brings its own challenges. From the heavy traffic in major thoroughfares such as C5, EDSA, and Commonwealth, to unpredictable weather, rough roads, steep climbs, and long, non-stop rides, both riders and their motorcycles are constantly put to the test.

Petron Got You

Petron understands what Filipino riders face every day, that is why Petron Sprint Scooter Oil was developed — to keep every scooter running smoothly and reliably, no matter what the road brings.

We are confident — kumpiyansa tayo — in our Petron Sprint Scooter Oil because:

  • Confidence in quality. It has the right viscosity and one of the highest API ratings in the country — even exceeding what scooter engines currently requires.
  • Confidence that it is suitable in local road conditions. It performs well in traffic, long rides, uphill roads, and continuous operation under heat or rain.
  • Confidence in formulation. It is blended in Petron’s modern facility, one of the top oil blending plants in Southeast Asia, ensuring consistency and reliability.

Built with high quality in mind and priced affordably, it keeps scooters performing at their best every single day.

“We understand the daily challenges of scooter riders — that’s why we developed Petron Sprint Scooter Oil,” said Virgilio V. Centeno, vice-president for Industrial Sales. “It was designed to make everyday rides smoother and worry-free, offering high-quality and value-for-money that riders can truly count on.”

Petron Management Committee at the launch of its new Sprint Scooter Oil last Nov. 12. In photo are (2nd-6th from left) VP for Industrial Sales Virgilio V. Centeno, VP & Executive Assistant to the President Jaime Lu, VP for Procurement Jacqueline Ang, Senior Vice-President and CFO Emmanuel E. Eraña, and General Manager Lubin B. Nepomuceno; (8th-13th from left) VP for Retail Sales Magnolia D. Uy, VP for Marketing Lemuel C. Cuezon, AVP for Corporate Affairs Mia L. Santos-Delos Reyes, AVP for Commercial Sales Leon G. Pausing Ii, AVP for Service Station Michael D. Flores, and VP for Operations And CTSG Jonathan Del Rosario.

Peace of Mind

A truly dependable oil gives riders more than engine protection — it gives them peace of mind. With Petron Sprint Scooter Oil, riders can take on their daily trips with confidence, knowing their scooter will perform smoothly in any condition. Whether it is a morning commute, a delivery route, or a weekend ride, Petron Sprint ensures consistent performance and protection.

When the engine runs smoothly, every journey becomes easier. Riders can focus on what really matters — getting to their destination safely, comfortably, and without worry.

Subok Sa Bawat Ride

The launch of Petron Sprint Scooter Oil celebrates the everyday Filipino rider who faces the road with confidence and determination.

Proven in daily commutes.

Proven through long hours on the road, under extreme heat or in the rain.

Proven in non-stop runs, whether for deliveries or with a passenger.

Proven on long rides that stay the course, even on uphill climbs.

This is the oil made for the #ScooterNation, for Filipinos who move with confidence, powered by Petron.

Petron Sprint Scooter Oil — Subok Sa Bawat Ride.

 

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Hamas quietly reasserts control in Gaza as post-war talks grind on

REUTERS

CAIRO — From regulating the price of chicken to levying fees on cigarettes, Hamas is seeking to widen control over Gaza as US plans for its future slowly take shape, Gazans say, adding to rivals’ doubts over whether it will cede authority as promised.

After a ceasefire began last month, Hamas swiftly reestablished its hold over areas from which Israel withdrew, killing dozens of Palestinians it accused of collaborating with Israel, theft or other crimes. Foreign powers demand the group disarm and leave government but have yet to agree who will replace them.

Now, a dozen Gazans say they are increasingly feeling Hamas control in other ways. Authorities monitor everything coming into areas of Gaza held by Hamas, levying fees on some privately imported goods including fuel as well as cigarettes and fining merchants seen to be overcharging for goods, according to 10 of the Gazans, three of them merchants with direct knowledge.

Ismail Al-Thawabta, head of the media office of the Hamas government, said accounts of Hamas taxing cigarettes and fuel were inaccurate, denying the government was raising any taxes.

ANALYST SEES HAMAS ENTRENCHING
The authorities were only carrying out urgent humanitarian and administrative tasks whilst making “strenuous efforts” to control prices, Mr. Thawabta said. He reiterated Hamas’ readiness to hand over to a new technocratic administration, saying it aimed to avoid chaos in Gaza: “Our goal is for the transition to proceed smoothly”.

Hatem Abu Dalal, owner of a Gaza mall, said prices were high because not enough goods were coming into Gaza. Government representatives were trying to bring order to the economy – touring around, checking goods and setting prices, he said.

Mohammed Khalifa, shopping in central Gaza’s Nuseirat area, said prices were constantly changing despite attempts to regulate them. “It’s like a stock exchange,” he said.

“The prices are high. There’s no income, circumstances are difficult, life is hard, and winter is coming,” he said.

US President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan secured a ceasefire on October 10 and the release of the last living hostages seized during the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.

The plan calls for the establishment of a transitional authority, the deployment of a multinational security force, Hamas’ disarmament, and the start of reconstruction.

But Reuters, citing multiple sources, reported this week that Gaza’s de facto partition appeared increasingly likely, with Israeli forces still deployed in more than half the territory and efforts to advance the plan faltering.

Nearly all of Gaza’s 2 million people live in areas controlled by Hamas, which seized control of the territory from President Mahmoud Abbas’ Palestinian Authority (PA) and his Fatah Movement in 2007.

Ghaith al-Omari, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute think-tank, said Hamas’ actions aimed to show Gazans and foreign powers alike that it cannot be bypassed.

“The longer that the international community waits, the more entrenched Hamas becomes,” Omari said.

US STATE DEPARTMENT: HAMAS ‘WILL NOT GOVERN’
Asked for comment on Gazans’ accounts of Hamas levying fees on some goods, among other reported activities, a US State Department spokesperson said: “This is why Hamas cannot and will not govern in Gaza”.

A new Gaza government can be formed once the United Nations approves Trump’s plan, the spokesperson said, adding that progress has been made towards forming the multinational force.

The PA is pressing for a say in Gaza’s new government, though Israel rejects the idea of it running Gaza again. Fatah and Hamas are at odds over how the new governing body should be formed.

Munther al-Hayek, a Fatah spokesperson in Gaza, said Hamas actions “give a clear indication that Hamas wants to continue to govern”.

In the areas held by Israel, small Palestinian groups that oppose Hamas have a foothold, a lingering challenge to it.

Gazans continue to endure dire conditions, though more aid has entered since the ceasefire.

THEY ‘RECORD EVERYTHING’
A senior Gazan food importer said Hamas hadn’t returned to a full taxation policy, but they “see and record everything”.

They monitor everything that enters, with checkpoints along routes, and stop trucks and question drivers, he said, declining to be identified. Price manipulators are fined, which helps reduce some prices, but they are still much higher than before the war began and people complain they have no money.

Hamas’ Gaza government employed up to 50,000 people, including policemen, before the war. Mr. Thawabta said that thousands of them were killed, and those remaining were ready to continue working under a new administration.

Hamas authorities continued paying them salaries during the war, though it cut the highest, standardizing wages to 1,500 shekels ($470) a month, Hamas sources and economists familiar with the matter said. It is believed that Hamas drew on stockpiled cash to pay the wages, a diplomat said.

The Hamas government replaced four regional governors who were killed, sources close to Hamas said. A Hamas official said the group also replaced 11 members of its Gaza politburo who died.

Gaza City activist and commentator Mustafa Ibrahim said Hamas was exploiting delays in the Trump plan “to bolster its rule”. “Will it be allowed to continue doing so? I think it will continue until an alternative government is in place,” he said. — Reuters

Angara denies involvement in DPWH kickback scheme

Source: DepEd

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara denied any involvement in the anomalous infrastructure projects in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

“We reject any insinuation made today that we were involved in anomalous projects. In my 21 years in government, we have never been involved in corruption,” he said in a social media post on Friday.

This comes after former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto M. Bernardo, in a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing, claimed that Education Undersecretary Trygve L. Olaivar received a 12% cut in infrastructure projects during Mr. Angara’s term as the chair of the Senate Finance Committee.

Mr. Bernardo noted that he first met Mr. Olaivar in 2010 while working for then-senator Ramon “Bong” B. Revilla, Jr.

The latter has then worked under the late Senator Edgardo J. Angara and his son.

“Usec. Trygve and I also had transactions concerning Senator Angara between 2019 and 2024, where Usec. Trygve received deliveries representing 12% of the projects of Senator Sonny Angara when the latter was chairman of finance (committee),” Mr. Bernardo said.

In September, Mr. Bernardo also said that Mr. Olaivar had demanded a 15% cut from P2.85 billion-worth of infrastructure projects, allegedly for Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.—Almira Louise S. Martinez

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