DoJ recommends charges vs Opsytech over investment solicitation — SEC

January 30, 2026 | 12:01 am

BW FILE PHOTO

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said the Department of Justice (DoJ) has recommended the filing of criminal charges against Opsytech Corp. and its agents for allegedly soliciting investments from the public without proper authorization.

In a statement on Thursday, the SEC said state prosecutors found sufficient evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction to charge Opsytech and its president for violations of the Securities Regulation Code (SRC) and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Two Opsytech agents were also implicated for allegedly violating Sections 26.3 and 28 of the SRC, in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Under Sections 8 and 28 of the SRC, entities offering securities to the public must first secure registration and a secondary license from the SEC. Section 26.3 prohibits any person from directly or indirectly engaging in fraudulent acts, transactions, practices, or business courses related to securities that deceive others.

The case stems from complaints received by the Commission regarding Opsytech offering a business loan scheme to raise funds for capital expenditures.

According to the SEC, Opsytech promoted returns of 2% to 9% per month on a minimum P100,000 investment, locked in for one year and backed by postdated checks.

A total of 16 complainants reportedly invested around P14.95 million, initially receiving payouts for a few months. The checks later bounced due to insufficient funds or closed accounts, prompting the investigation.

“Indeed, [the] respondents falsely represented that Opsytech has legitimate projects and business dealings. Unbeknownst to the investors, these were mere part of an elaborate show on the part of the respondents… in order to convince them to part with their money,” the resolution read.

“The concerted actions among respondents to deceive the public supports the existence of conspiracy in the commission of this violation,” it added.

The SEC said the DoJ determined that Opsytech’s business loan agreements qualify as investment contracts, as they involved the use of private investors’ funds for capital expenditures in return for fixed profits.

The finding also noted that Opsytech lacked the required registration or authority to sell, offer, or distribute securities under the SRC.

BusinessWorld tried to reach Opsytech for comment, but no working contact information was available. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno

If the US leaves NATO, Europe can protect itself

January 30, 2026 | 12:01 am

By James Stavridis

AS A FORMER supreme allied commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), I never contemplated the idea of the US leaving the world’s most vital security alliance. But the crisis over Greenland’s sovereignty of the last two weeks has me thinking seriously about what NATO would look like without its most important member.

NATO was formed from the ashes of World War II by a dozen nations, 10 European and two North American. Lord Ismay, the first secretary general, famously said that NATO existed to “keep the Russians out, the Americans in, and the Germans down.” He saw the Cold War unfolding, the threat to Western Europe posed by the Soviet Union, and the danger of an unchecked Germany. He also knew the US might repeat the mistake it made after World War I: Simply walking away from the continent after the fighting was over.

From 1949 to the present, the alliance has largely held to Ismay’s objectives: through the Cold War, the collapse of communism and reunification of Germany, the endless disputes about burden-sharing, and the post-9/11 NATO mission to Afghanistan, which I commanded for four years. Despite a lot of internal quarreling, the alliance has grown to 32 nations and remains vital for security not only in Western Europe but in the Balkans, the Middle East, the Arctic, and the waters off Europe and Africa.

But the Greenland controversy is as tense as any previous rift in the alliance. Nearly 10 European nations sent small troop contingents to the island over the past two weeks, ostensibly to survey defenses against Russian and Chinese intrusion, but mostly to forestall US military intervention threatened by President Donald Trump. Cooler heads have prevailed so far, but the matter is hardly closed, and there are plenty of other issues where Team Trump appears poised to threaten transatlantic unity.

It is worth asking: What does NATO look like without the US?

Washington has by far the largest military budget in the alliance, clocking in around $900 billion, with Trump recently floating the idea of increasing it to $1.5 trillion. But Europe’s collective defense budget is quite large — the second in the world — at around $400 billion. For perspective, Russia checks in at around $140 billion and China about $250 billion. And with new pledges by European nations to get to 5% of GDP (3.5% of pure military spending and 1.5% on related infrastructure and cyber capability), there is a lot of money being used on defense across the Atlantic.

Another big loss for the alliance with a US departure would be the reduction in the defense industrial base and all its associated technological capability. Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, General Dynamics and RTX (formerly Raytheon) are huge prime contractors, and roughly half of the world’s top 25 defense firms are in the US. But Europe has a reasonably strong industrial base, with eight of the top 25 contractors, including BAE (UK), Leonardo (Italy), Airbus (France/Germany), Thales (France), Saab (Sweden), and Rheinmetall (Germany).

The US produces the highest levels of technology, including the lion’s share of stealth fifth-generation fighter planes such as the F-35; the best long-dwell drones for reconnaissance and strike; the top air-defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD; and better satellites, the key to overall intelligence. Yet Europe makes warships and diesel submarines more rapidly and with equal capabilities to many US classes. And thanks to their recent support to Ukraine, the Europeans are rapidly overtaking the US in production of tanks, howitzers, and ammunition.

Europe would be able to quickly come up to speed in lower-tech systems like short-dwell drones; small arms; helicopters and transport aircraft; and shorter-range air defenses and surface-strike missiles. How fast could continental firms replicate departing US military tech? Probably five years of development, but not forever out of reach.

As for troop strength, while the US is able to rely on an all-volunteer force, many European members of the alliance are comfortable with some form of conscription. Nine nations have it already, including both Nordic members, and Germany is about to reinstitute it.

There is of course the major problem of a nuclear shield. Although the UK and France have small (but well-trained) nuclear strike forces, Europe would no longer have the strategic umbrella supplied by Washington. So, the European states might be forced to build up their own capabilities, with Germany and Poland likely joining the nuclear club. Or they could possibly negotiate a framework with the US to maintain a shared nuclear force for some period.

A huge factor on Europe’s side is that a NATO without the US would not have the kind of global responsibilities — driven by American priorities — that led the alliance into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. NATO could be far more focused on its neighborhood, particularly with protecting Ukraine — which is more likely to eventually join a post-US NATO. The alliance would still have six nations in the Arctic.

If the US moves toward a narrow focus on the Western Hemisphere — as both the new National Security Strategy and the National Defense Strategy say it should — I suspect the remaining 31 nations of NATO will ultimately be just fine. And adding Ukraine — with 40 million people, a highly experienced army, and a deeply motivated populace — would bring the alliance back to 32.

Let’s hope the US stays the course, but I suspect the Europeans are starting to think about other options for their defense. People ask me all the time, “Who will win the war in Ukraine — the Russians or the Ukrainians?” The real winner could be the Europeans — if they band together and build a stronger pan-continental defense. Let’s hope this would be inside NATO, and alongside the US. But if necessary, I think they could go it alone.

BLOOMBERG OPINION

James Stavridis is dean emeritus of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He is on the boards of Aon, Fortinet and Ankura Consulting Group.

Energizing workers without spending

January 30, 2026 | 12:01 am

We’re a small business. We can’t afford to pay high salaries. How do we motivate workers without spending much? — Silver Anchor.

Of course there’s a way. First, be kind to your people — just be aware that it’s not a magic bullet. Kindness can help win loyalty, but true happiness can’t be secured over the long term.

Imagine this. If engagement is low, what’s the usual management reaction? For some managers, the first instinct is to order pizza. When morale dips again, they raise the pizza budget. It’s a cycle. Eventually, the team becomes overfed, under-inspired, and yet suspicious of anything round and delivered in 30 minutes.

Here’s the painful truth. No amount of free pizza can sustain motivation. Workers become demotivated because they feel they’re being taken for a ride. They’re disengaged because their work feels meaningless or they’re being micromanaged.

ROOTED IN PSYCHOLOGY
For many organizations, big or small, the most effective motivators cost nothing. They are rooted in psychology, not in procuring the best coffee machine or the most expensive pizza. Here are some non-traditional and inexpensive ways to energize people without necessarily breaking the bank:

One, give the workers control over their work. Motivation goes up if they’re empowered and trusted, subject to certain limitations. Let them solve problems that make it difficult to perform their task. Or let them choose their schedule for certain days with the concurrence of other workers.

Also, let the workers report at 15-minute morning meetings the problems they are encountering and the solutions they may have developed. When workers are allowed to design how they work, they commit much harder when they’re given assignments.

Two, recognize people with a personal touch. It’s as simple as giving them a handwritten note on a Post-it, a quick “thank you” at the beginning of a meeting, or an e-mail copied to top executives. Avoid being overly mechanical.

Research supports authentic recognition. Many people don’t need formalities. They need any evidence they’re seen and heard in public while being commended by their bosses.

Three, involve other workers in the recognition process. Sometimes, being recognized by colleagues is more powerful when the accolade doesn’t come from a department manager. Some examples include a micro-award for “you made my work easy last week.”

This could be done by establishing a one-hour “Fabulous Friday” event where team members name someone who helped them in the past few days. The idea behind this is simple — recognition from work colleagues promotes a sense of belonging.

Four, consult the workers before making a final decision. Some managers ask for feedback after they’ve already made up their mind. That’s not consultation. Co-ownership becomes strong when the workers feel their fingerprints were on the plan since its inception.

This approach alone sends an important message. Your contribution to this idea is important, not just your attendance and cooperation.

Five, require people to become visible. Create opportunities for them. But don’t force the issue with introverts. Many people would rather be seen working, especially outside their work stations. For example, give people about three minutes in a cross-functional meeting.

Ask them to introduce an improved work process. Let them be the spokesperson for every small win. Visibility, no matter how small is the corporate equivalent of sunlight. Nothing grows without it.

Six, give them small privileges. Allow them to bask in prestige and other symbolic perks. This includes giving them the first choice of being assigned in certain branches, especially if they’re located near their residence.

Another example is to give them a “VIP desk” close to a window, if not close to the air-conditioning. These things cost nothing but feel like status. Never underestimate the magic of low-cost prestige.

Seven, identify and remove all stupid policies. Some workers who are perceived to be demotivated are simply frustrated with unreasonable policies, like requiring five approvals on an application for a one-day vacation leave.

It’s also a friction point for some line supervisors who feel they’re not sufficiently trusted by management. Allow people to identify their challenges and propose solutions with the help of their team leaders.

Eight, let the workers showcase their hobbies. People feel proud when they’re not just treated as plain workers, but become models for extracurricular interests. This could be done during a bite-sized “tell me something in 15 minutes” segments during a town hall meeting.

Sharing workers’ skills or anything they know well is a booster for them. Allowing the workers to share their interests outside of work turns them into visible contributors that lead them to become “experts.”

In conclusion, people are motivated because they’re being treated as adults whose contributions matter. When people are trusted, they reciprocate by being responsible. And when they’re allowed to “bask in the sun,” they put in a lot of effort.

When they feel valued, they stay committed.

Consult Rey Elbo on your workplace situations for free. E-mail elbonomics@gmail.com or DM him on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or via https://reyelbo.com.

Philippine economic growth slows to 3% in Q4 2025

January 30, 2026 | 12:01 am

PHILIPPINE economic growth sharply slowed to a post-pandemic low in the fourth quarter of 2025 as the flood control scandal continued to weigh on government spending, investments and consumer spending, dragging full-year expansion below target for the third straight year. Read the full story.

New beginnings, continuities and endings

January 30, 2026 | 12:01 am

The start of 2026 feels like standing at a crossroads — new beginnings emerge, meaningful work continues, and inevitable endings remind us what truly matters. Life, in all its seasons, invites us to pause, reflect, and move forward with gratitude and purpose.

This year ushers in important leadership transitions. At the Philippine Bible Society (PBS), Laura Valledo, formerly deputy general secretary, assumed the role of General Secretary upon the retirement of Perry Cartera, who faithfully served PBS for 37 years. January, Philippine Bible Month, carries the theme “God’s Word Brings LIFE — Love, Integrity, Faith, and Engagement — to our Hearts and Homes.” A fitting reminder as we step into the year.

Also, congratulations to the new FINEX President, DES Financing Corp. CEO Carlo Lazatin. Continuing a family legacy of service, Carlo’s father, Ric Lazatin now serves as president of Tulay sa Pagunlad Inc. (TSPI) following the passing of former president Rene Cristobal.

With beginnings come endings. Over the past year we lost dear friends: Cesar Buenaventura, Gil Buenaventura, Oscar Hilado, Xavier Loinaz, Joe Facundo, Chito Sobrepeña, and recently, our beloved cousin Dr. Jaime Lapus.

Losing a loved one is difficult. Riva Galvez Tan, daughter of Dr. Jimmy Galvez Tan, founded Joyful Grieving, a memorial coordination service that helps families navigate loss with dignity and grace. We coordinate weddings and milestones — why not the memorial of our own lives? Her manual, Building a Lasting Legacy Before Your Inevitable Flight, reminds us to prepare and not wait for the last two minutes of life.

The Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) continues its mission with the 2^nd FCC CEO Next program, mentoring 19 future CEOs. This batch featured masterclasses with Doris Magsaysay Ho (with panelists Riza Mantaring, Sharon Daoyon and Carol Dominguez), Senator Grace Poe, Margot Torres of McDonald’s, Shell’s Lorelie Osial and Aboitiz InfraCapital’s Cosette Canilao .

For the January Masterclass, Accenture’s Ambe Tierro invited me to share my journey with the title “Legacy That Lasts: Reinventing and Thriving Through Multiple Career Stages.” She suggested I share my experiences from line management to board work, from finance and banking to writing and gardening — and the lessons along the way.

From my parents, I learned enduring principles: live within your means, expand your means, guard your integrity, commit to lifelong learning, nurture relationships, and pray without ceasing.

Graduate school at UCLA tested my confidence. I struggled to understand my professors’ accents and thought I had failed — surprise! I topped the Master’s comprehensive exams. I knew it was God’s grace, much like how Senator Bam Aquino described his own election victory. This opened doors at Bancom and Citibank.

At Citi, training took me immediately to a Penang credit seminar. As the youngest in our family, I have never traveled alone. When my two companions failed to show up for our connecting flight from Hong Kong, I faced a choice: wait and miss the training, or go alone. Responsibility overcame fear. I left — and made it on time. They arrived the next day and missed the opening day.

Lesson: Step out of your comfort zone. After that, traveling alone anywhere became easy.

Upon retiring from Citi, then Secretary of the Department of Finance (DoF) Jose Pardo handed me my appointment papers as Finance Undersecretary already signed by the President of the Philippines — so how could I say no? The DoF expanded my board experience as alternate of the Finance secretary in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Monetary Board, Land Bank of the Philippines, and Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. After DoF, I joined the Philippine National Bank board as director, eventually becoming its first chairwoman.

What pushed me towards writing was that at a Citibank party with non-bankers, the bankers talked only about work. A spouse lovingly called our attention. That made me realize I should widen my interests — and writing was a way to do that. I’ve been writing for some 30 years now.

Gardening began when Nanay planted talinum — which I almost threw away. Maur Lichauco, Ninoy Aquino’s eldest sister, told me it sustained many during the Japanese occupation. That started our book “Oops! Don’t Throw Those Weeds Away!” which led to my “Hardin ng Buhay” garden advocating “No Filipino should be Hungry.”

Some lessons in my journey:

• Always do your best. Ensure continuous learning.

• Guard your integrity. Practice ethics.

• Value network, health, family, and friends.

• Count your blessings.

• Trust God — the source of everything and ALL we need.

The future is so uncertain. Still, lets be confident of the future as our God is already there. Let’s all be bankers — someone who BANKS on God!

The views expressed herein are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of her office as well as FINEX.

Flor G. Tarriela is a banking professional. She was the first Filipina vice-president of Citibank and was former undersecretary of Finance and chairman of PNB. She is currently a board advisor at PNB and LTG and director at Nickel Asia. She is a gardener and environmentalist and founded Flor’s Garden in Antipolo.

How PSEi member stocks performed — January 29, 2026

January 30, 2026 | 12:00 am

Here’s a quick glance at how PSEi stocks fared on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

Nine DPWH flagship projects due by 2028 test Marcos infrastructure push

January 29, 2026 | 9:11 pm

Central-Luzon-expressway-DPWH — The Central Luzon Link Expressway, a 29.2-kilometer highway connecting Tarlac City to Cabanatuan City. — DPWH

By Adrian H. Halili and Chloe Mari A. Hufana, Reporters

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said nine infrastructure flagship projects worth P210 billion are on track for completion by 2028, setting a delivery test for the Marcos administration as it looks to revive growth and restore confidence after last year’s corruption scandals weighed on public spending.

Speaking at a House of Representatives briefing on Thursday, Public Works Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain said the projects mark a key milestone under the administration’s “Build Better More” program, which places infrastructure at the center of its economic strategy.

“Another significant milestone that we have to mark here are the nine infrastructure projects for completion under this administration,” he said, framing the timeline as a benchmark for government execution before President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s term ends.

Several of the projects are either nearing completion or entering their final construction phase. Phase 1 of the Central Luzon Link Expressway, a 29.2-kilometer highway connecting Tarlac City to Cabanatuan City, carries a project cost of about P14.9 billion and is scheduled for inauguration by February.

The road is expected to cut travel time across Central Luzon, a major agricultural corridor, improving farm-to-market access and logistics efficiency.

Another project set for completion this year is the P25.3-billion Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project. Mr. Sadain said the program covers 152 road sections and about 20 bridge projects spread across Mindanao, aimed at easing transport bottlenecks in one of the country’s least developed but fastest-growing regions.

“It runs a total of 152 new roads and about 20 projects for bridges that are for completion,” he said.

Flood control, a recurring concern for Metro Manila, features prominently on the list. The Metro Manila Flood Management Project, which costs P24.9 billion, involves the construction of 39 pumping stations across the capital. Mr. Sadain said 16 pumping stations have been completed, while the remaining 23 are scheduled to be finished by 2028.

“This will play a significant role in mitigating flooding in Metro Manila,” he said, pointing to the project’s importance as climate risks intensify and urban congestion worsens.

Traffic congestion in the capital is also a focus of the P12.03-billion Metro Manila Bridges Project, which involves building three bridges across the Marikina River. The bridges are designed to decongest key road corridors by adding alternative routes between Marikina City and Quezon City.

“These are extra connectors that would link Marikina City to Quezon City,” Mr. Sadain said.

Beyond Luzon, two large-scale projects in Mindanao — the Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge and the Davao City Bypass Construction Project — are slated for completion by 2028. Both are expected to support trade, tourism and mobility in the Davao Region, which the government sees as a growth anchor outside Metro Manila.

Other projects on the completion list include the Philippines Seismic Risk Reduction and Resilience Project, the Reconstruction and Development Plan for a Greater Marawi, and the Panglao-Tagbilaran City Offshore Bridge Connector, which aims to boost tourism and connectivity in Bohol.

While DPWH officials expressed confidence in meeting the 2028 timeline, right-of-way acquisition remains a critical risk. Mr. Sadain urged lawmakers to sustain funding for land acquisition to prevent construction delays.

“We don’t have much problem on potential delays, as long as we get the necessary allocations for the next two years to fund right-of-way acquisitions,” he said.

Under the 2026 national spending plan, the Public Works department has been earmarked P17 billion for right-of-way funding. Some lawmakers suggested devolving more responsibility to local governments to speed up the process. Rizal Rep. Jose Arturo S. Garcia, Jr., who heads the House Flagship Programs and Projects Committee, said local governments could acquire land faster if given the funds directly.

“Maybe we can fast-track this by providing funds to local governments,” he said in Filipino. “They will handle the right-of-way issues instead of the National Government,” he added, noting that acquisitions could be completed within six months.

NOT A DEVELOPMENT MEASURE
Still, analysts remain cautious. Rene S. Santiago, an international transport development consultant and former president of the Transportation Science Society of the Philippines, said the DPWH might struggle to deliver all nine projects on time amid lingering fallout from the corruption scandal.

“All of these projects started long ago,” he said in a Viber message. “Six of them might finally get to the finish line, for sure, but not all of the nine.”

The DPWH has been embroiled in a graft scandal involving officials and district engineers accused of colluding with senior lawmakers to siphon off billions of pesos earmarked for flood control projects. The controversy led to tighter procurement rules and slowed public works last year, weighing on economic growth.

Jose Enrique A. Africa, executive director of think tank IBON Foundation, said projects in densely populated urban areas are more vulnerable to delays compared with more straightforward projects in parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. He added that higher infrastructure spending does not automatically translate into broad-based development.

“While completing infrastructure is a test of the government’s project competence, it really isn’t a measure of national development,” he said in a Viber message.

Nigel Paul C. Villarete, a senior adviser at Libra Konsult, Inc., said the challenge lies in execution rather than planning. “Project development and execution is another thing, and this is where the gap emerges,” he said, adding that closing that gap would allow most projects to move forward.

The push to complete the nine projects comes as Mr. Marcos signals more infrastructure spending ahead.

After the seventh meeting of the Economic and Development Council (EDC) earlier this week, the President said more big-ticket projects are under review as the government seeks to spur investment and growth after last year’s slowdown.

The EDC, under the Department of Economy, Planning and Development, acts as a gatekeeper for major public investments. Approvals from the council are expected to unlock priority projects in the coming months, a move the administration is counting on as it sets 2026 as a turning point for faster delivery, stronger governance and renewed investor confidence.

The Philippine economy grew 3% in the fourth quarter, the slowest in almost five years and bringing full-year growth to 4.4%. This was way below the state’s 5.5-6.5% target for the year.

The Palace said the government is banking on fresh investment in technology, faster infrastructure spending and tighter governance to support growth this year.

“The administration is currently implementing measures to boost private investment in technology and other sectors, increase agricultural production, accelerate infrastructure development, pass priority legislation and strengthen good governance,” Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro told reporters in Filipino via Viber.

Manila urges restraint on calls to expel China envoys

January 29, 2026 | 9:10 pm

By Chloe Mari A. Hufana, Reporter

PHILIPPINE officials cautioned against moves to expel Chinese diplomats, saying such action should be treated as a last resort as Manila seeks to manage rising tensions with Beijing through diplomatic channels.

Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro said on Thursday that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) views the declaration of Chinese Embassy personnel as persona non grata as an “option of last resort,” underscoring the administration’s preference for dialogue and consultation despite growing political pressure at home.

“While it is within the remit of the DFA, such action is an option of last resort, second only to the downgrading of relations, when diplomatic relations with a certain country have so seriously fractured that no intervening remedy can stabilize interaction and engagement,” she told reporters, quoting a DFA statement.

Such a step, she added, carries significant risks, including the possibility of reciprocal action by the other country, which could further strain political, economic and people-to-people ties.

Ms. Castro said the DFA has taken note of resolutions filed in both chambers of Congress seeking to declare certain Chinese Embassy officials persona non grata, as well as a similar move by the municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan targeting China’s ambassador.

The Philippines and China have faced months of heightened friction, driven by overlapping claims in the South China Sea and a series of maritime confrontations that have hardened rhetoric on both sides.

Calls for tougher action against Beijing have gained traction among lawmakers and local officials, reflecting public anger over incidents involving Philippine vessels and Chinese coast guard and maritime militia ships.

The DFA, Ms. Castro said, remains in direct communication with Beijing on bilateral and international issues affecting the Philippines and continues to pursue national interests through diplomatic engagement.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. is aware of the proposals and exchanges between Philippine and Chinese officials and remains in close contact with Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.

She said the DFA’s position reflects the President’s own approach as the country’s chief architect of foreign policy. “There can be firm action alongside diplomacy,” Ms. Castro said, signaling that restraint does not preclude stronger responses if circumstances warrant them.

On Wednesday, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said Ambassador Jing Quan would promptly leave the Philippines if declared persona non grata by Mr. Marcos.

Embassy spokesman Ji Lingpeng said the ambassador would depart “with immense pride and honor” if asked to go and insisted that any expulsions would not deter Beijing from defending its position.

Mr. Ji added that he and the embassy’s media affairs team would stand or leave together if individuals were named persona non grata, responding to a Senate resolution signed by 15 senators that criticized recent embassy statements as inconsistent with diplomatic norms.

Separately, the municipal council of Kalayaan in Palawan — a strategic outpost within the disputed South China Sea — passed a resolution dated Jan. 27 declaring Mr. Jing persona non grata within its jurisdiction.

The move is largely symbolic and carries no legal authority to expel a foreign diplomat, a power that rests solely with the National Government, but it highlights intensifying local backlash against China.

Kalayaan administers parts of the contested Spratly Islands and serves as the Philippines’ frontline community in the South China Sea, making it a focal point of domestic sentiment tied to sovereignty and maritime rights.

Diplomatic analysts said statements from the Executive branch carry particular weight, as the authority to declare a foreign diplomat persona non grata lies exclusively with the President, acting through the DFA.

Josue Raphael J. Cortez, a diplomacy lecturer at De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, said Congress and local governments might issue resolutions or recommendations but do not have the final say on actions that could carry wide diplomatic and economic consequences.

Mr. Cortez said the Palace position is consistent with the Philippines’ longstanding policy of seeking the peaceful settlement of disputes and keeping communication channels open, even amid sharp disagreements.

“Our bilateral ties are not merely shaped and defined by a specific issue area but are a nexus of politics, economics and cultural aspects,” he said via Facebook Messenger.

Marcos: Co, other fugitives will be arrested this year

January 29, 2026 | 9:10 pm

PBBM Marcos — PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT FERDINAND R. MARCOS, JR. — PPA POOL

By Erika Mae P. Sinaking

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. is confident that former Party-list Rep. Elizaldy S. Co, who is accused in a multibillion-peso graft case, and other high-profile fugitives hiding overseas would be apprehended and returned to the Philippines within the year, Malacañang said on Thursday.

Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro said the President is not frustrated by the slow pace of Mr. Co’s arrest, citing his confidence in law enforcement agencies and the Department of Interior and Local Government, which are coordinating efforts to track the former congressman abroad.

“The President remains confident in the work being done by our agencies, especially in pursuing fugitives,” Ms. Castro told a Palace briefing in Filipino. “We cannot say that the President is frustrated, because he knows that the heads of government agencies pursuing fugitives are carrying out their work in accordance with his directives.”

The case against Mr. Co is part of a broader graft scandal involving misuse of public funds, procurement irregularities and corruption linked to flood control projects. The controversy has eroded public trust and triggered multiple investigations, alongside calls for tighter oversight and stronger accountability mechanisms.

Mr. Co, the former chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, is accused of graft and malversation in connection with a P289.5-million “ghost” flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. His co-accused are already in custody. Mr. Co has denied the allegations and has sought relief from the courts while abroad.

Earlier on Thursday, the Supreme Court released Mr. Co’s petition against Ombudsman Jesus Crispin C. Remulla, showing that the verification and certification of the filing were notarized in Sweden on Jan. 15. The document carried an apostille from Nacka, Sweden, indicating that Mr. Co personally appeared before a Swedish notary public, who verified his identity and witnessed the signing of the documents.

The filing added a layer of complexity to efforts to locate the former lawmaker. Interior Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla earlier said Mr. Co had been last tracked in Lisbon, Portugal, underscoring the challenges authorities face in pinning down his whereabouts.

Apart from Mr. Co, Philippine authorities are also pursuing other fugitives believed to be outside the country. Businessman Charlie “Atong” Tiu Hay Sy Ang is believed to be either in Cambodia or Thailand. Mr. Ang faces multiple kidnapping charges filed before courts in Santa Cruz and Los Baños in Laguna province, as well as in Lipa City, Batangas, over the disappearance of at least 34 cockfighting enthusiasts.

Former presidential spokesman Herminio “Harry” L. Roque is also outside the Philippines and is in Vienna, Austria. He faces a qualified human trafficking case linked to now-illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations, a sector that has been the subject of intensified scrutiny by authorities.

Analysts said that alongside efforts to arrest suspects, the government’s push to recover misused public funds could play a practical role in strengthening cases tied to the flood control probe. While restitution is not mandated by law, it may influence prosecutorial strategy and public perception.

Edmund S. Tayao, president and chief executive officer of Political Economic Elemental Researchers and Strategists, said restitution is not a legal requirement for inclusion in the government’s Witness Protection Program, but may signal cooperation.

“That is not a requirement enshrined in law,” he said by telephone. “However, in legal practice, actions that show remorse may mitigate a person’s situation. If the issue involves money, returning part of what was allegedly abused may signal willingness to cooperate.”

David Michael M. San Juan, a professor at De La Salle University and convener of Professionals for a Progressive Economy, said restitution could also serve the public interest by allowing the government to recover funds earlier in the process.

“Restitution is akin to an admission of guilt somehow, so it binds the prospective witness to ensuring that his or her participation is fully discussed, with full details on co-conspirators’ participation in the plunder of public funds,” he said via Facebook Messenger. “It also protects public interest by ensuring that stolen funds are returned right away rather than after a long wait.”

The Department of Justice has admitted several state witnesses in connection with the flood control investigation, including three former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways and a private contractor. These witnesses have returned more than P316 million in cash to the government under agreements formalized with the department.

Under the Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Act, witnesses receive security, relocation assistance, legal immunity for offenses they testify about and financial and health support. In return, they must testify truthfully and comply with strict security and confidentiality rules.

“They clearly know how the crime was committed,” Mr. San Juan said. “They can help identify the masterminds.”

Both analysts cautioned that restitution and witness testimony alone would not be enough to address public concerns. Mr. Tayao said many high-profile cases in the Philippines hinge on witness accounts, but the deeper issue remains institutional.

“Our problem is systemic, not just about personalities,” he said, adding that stronger safeguards, including traceable payment systems, are needed to reduce dependence on insider testimony in corruption cases. — with Chloe Mari A. Hufana

SC upholds ruling on VP’s ouster bid

January 29, 2026 | 9:09 pm

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday affirmed with finality its decision to block the impeachment of Vice-President (VP) Sara Duterte-Carpio, rejecting a motion for reconsideration filed by the House of Representatives.

“By a unanimous vote of all those participating [justices], the Supreme Court en banc denied with finality the Motion for Reconsideration filed by the House of Representatives, which sought to reverse the Court’s July 25, 2025 Decision that declared the Articles of Impeachment against Vice-President Sara Z. Duterte unconstitutional,” SC spokesperson Camille Sue Mae L. Ting told a media briefing.

The Court held that the fourth impeachment complaint, transmitted to the Senate on Feb. 5, 2025, violated the constitutional one-year bar rule, which prohibits initiating impeachment proceedings against the same official more than once within a 12-month period under Article XI, Section 3 of the Constitution.

The SC clarified that the first three complaints were not included in the House Order of Business within the required 10 session days, which should be understood as calendar days when the House holds session.

The ruling also clarified the distinction between the two modes of initiating impeachment. The first mode involves a regular deliberative process via the Committee on Justice, while the second mode allows a complaint signed by at least one-third of all House members to “immediately initiate” proceedings.

The Court emphasized that the due process clause embodies a fundamental commitment to “reasonableness, fairness, and non-arbitrariness.”

It noted that even under the streamlined second mode, all endorsing members should have been given copies of the complaint and supporting evidence to ensure the process remains a “class of its own” (sui generis) rather than an arbitrary act.

The resolution is immediately executory, and no further pleadings will be allowed, the SC said in its resolution.

Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa took no part in the proceedings, while Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh was on leave, said Ms. Ting.

This finality signals that any new attempts to impeach the Vice-President may only proceed after the one-year ban officially expires on Feb. 6.

“We respect the Supreme Court’s decision on the prior impeachment proceedings involving Vice-President Sara Duterte,” Party-list Rep. Terry L. Ridon, chair of the House Committee on Public Accounts, said in a statement.

“However, once the one-year bar lapses on 6 February, the House of Representatives of the 20^th Congress will be prepared to receive and act on any new impeachment complaints filed against the Vice-President,” Mr. Ridon added.

Manila Rep. Joel R. Chua, chairperson of the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, said the House of Representatives may revise its rules on impeachment to align with the SC decision.

Mr. Chua, a member of the House prosecution team and the House Committee on Justice, said he would confer with colleagues on how best to amend the rules in a manner they deem appropriate and compliant with the ruling, noting that inputs may be sought from the complainants, some of whom are now members of the House.

“While I do not agree with the Supreme Court decision, we will abide by it because as a lawyer, I am an officer of the court and swore to respect and uphold our system anchored on the rule of law,” Mr. Chua said adding that his remarks reflect his personal view as a lawmaker. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking

NBI may act vs fake Marcos records

January 29, 2026 | 9:09 pm

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will likely take action against the proliferation of fabricated medical records linked to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s recent hospitalization, the Palace said on Thursday.

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro said the agency started its probe even before receiving any directive from the Palace.

“There was no need to elevate the issue; the NBI acts quickly. They already know what is happening in our government and in our surroundings,” she said in Filipino.

“So, even without an order coming from the President, the NBI is mandated to investigate this matter.”

The Palace on Wednesday evening confirmed the claims that circulated online concerning the President’s health, including a falsified medical document, were fake.

The Presidential Communications Office said in a statement said the documents did not come from any legitimate medical examination, adding that Mr. Marcos is “well” and fully capable of performing his duties.

“The deliberate spread of falsified medical information is irresponsible, deceptive, and a clear violation of the President’s right to privacy,” the office said, warning that such claims risk alarming the public and undermining trust in institutions.

It added the President continues to actively discharge his responsibilities.

St. Luke’s Medical Center Quezon City, where Mr. Marcos was admitted last week, also debunked the supposed medical bulletin.

“St. Luke’s Medical Center strictly upholds patient confidentiality and data privacy. Medical results are released only to the patient himself/herself through authorized and official hospital channels,” it said in a statement on Wednesday night. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana

Sugar industry still admin priority

January 29, 2026 | 9:08 pm

Sugarcane-farmer — PHILIPPINE STAR/ERNIE PENAREDONDO

THE sugar industry remains a priority under President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto said on Thursday, pledging to review stakeholder concerns and elevate them to relevant offices for policy consideration.

Following a meeting with the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform Chair Francis Pancratius “Kiko” N. Pangilinan on Wednesday, Mr. Recto sought to align strategies to tackle urgent challenges in the sector.

The Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) said the meeting was part of the Marcos administration’s wider initiative to develop coordinated and responsive measures for the sugar industry amid ongoing challenges in production, pricing and supply.

“The Executive Secretary also stressed the importance of close coordination between the executive and legislative branches, as well as continuous dialogue with farmers, millers, and other stakeholders,” the OES said in a statement.

Mr. Pangilinan outlined key policy recommendations to stabilize production and improve market conditions, emphasizing the urgency of coordinated government action.

Mr. Recto also highlighted the importance of strong coordination between the Executive and Legislative branches to ensure policies are implemented effectively. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana

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