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Downton Abbey cast bid farewell in final film outing

A scene from Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.

LONDON — The Downton Abbey cast bid farewell to the franchise with a third and final film, 15 years after the period drama first aired as a television series and gained a huge following in Britain and the United States.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale sees the fictitious Crawley family and their servants running a sprawling English country estate in the early 20th century now entering the 1930s, with patriarch Robert Crawley (Hugh Bonneville) ready to hand over the reins to his daughter, Mary.

But Mary (Michelle Dockery) finds herself facing a public scandal, all while the family tackles new financial woes.

“(Creator and writer) Julian (Fellowes) has constructed a beautiful, if you like, love letter to the loyal audiences that we’ve garnered over the years,” Mr. Bonneville told Reuters at the film’s world premiere on Wednesday.

“I think those who follow the show will find it a very moving and I think appropriate way to wind up all of the stories.”

The film features plenty of other original cast members as well as new faces.

“It’s very emotional to say goodbye. We have done it a number of times… we always thought the TV show that was it, then we did one movie, and we’re like we should be so lucky,” actor Laura Carmichael, who played Mary’s sister Edith, said. “It’s nice to know this is it because we wanted to give it… the proper send-off.”

The award-winning Downton Abbey first aired as a series in 2010, originally set in 1912. It went on for six seasons and was followed by two previous films released in 2019 and 2022.

“We wanted to prove that the people who’d prophesied that period drama was finished, we wanted to prove them wrong. But I don’t think it was more than that,” Mr. Fellowes said of when the show first started.

“At the beginning we thought we might get maybe two or three series out of it, but we didn’t think we’d become a kind of world phenomenon.”

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale hits Philippine cinemas on Sept. 10. The MTRCB has given it a rating of PG. — Reuters

Margin pressure to weigh on PHL banks’ earnings growth

REUTERS

THE SLOWER income growth posted by most listed Philippine banks in the second quarter is likely to continue for the remainder of the year as easing interest rates continue to affect their margins.

“The slowdown in net income growth was expected, given the environment of declining interest rates… Overall, we expect this trend to continue, with overall profitability declining except for some outliers,” AP Securities, Inc. Research Head Alfred Benjamin R. Garcia said.

“We’re already seeing asset quality taking a hit from the aggressive expansion into consumer lending, and we expect some provisioning for bad loans impacting earnings down the line.”

The Philippine banking industry’s combined net income grew by 4.14% year on year to P198.14 billion in the six months through June from P190.26 billion a year ago, according to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Meanwhile, the sector’s gross nonperforming loan (NPL) ratio dropped to a three-month low of 3.34% in June from 3.38% in May and 3.51% in the same month last year.

The BSP has cut benchmark borrowing costs by a cumulative 150 basis points (bps) since it began its easing cycle in August 2024, with the policy rate now at 5%.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. said last week that the key rate is now at the “sweet spot” in terms of inflation and output.

He added that they could consider further policy loosening if the economy weakens “considerably,” with one more cut still possible this year that could mark the end of its current easing cycle.

Mr. Garcia said Philippine National Bank (PNB) was a standout in the second quarter as its net profit rose by 28.95% year on year to P6.43 billion in the period.

PNB, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Security Bank Corp. also bucked the trend of declining net interest margins, he said.

First Metro Investment Corp. Head of Research Cristina S. Ulang noted that the country’s biggest banks in asset terms, namely, BDO Unibank, Inc., Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., and BPI posted average profit growth of 5% in the first semester.

“The top three banks maximized their earnings growth potential in spite of the more challenging net interest margin environment by lending aggressively and growing fee income,” Ms. Ulang said.

These three lenders also recorded better NPL ratios in the period, she added.

BDO’s net income was flat year on year at P20.985 billion in the second quarter. This brought its first-half net earnings to P40.76 billion, up by 3.12% from the same period in 2024.

Meanwhile, Metrobank’s net profit rose by 8.44% to P12.59 billion in the three months through June. For the first semester, its earnings increased by 5.25% year on year to P24.85 billion.

Lastly, BPI’s net income went up by 7.02% to P16.44 billion in the second quarter, bringing its six-month profit to P32.96 billion, rising by 7.83% year on year.

“Banks’ top lines remain robust, but bottom lines have been trimmed as institutions invest in long-term growth,” Regina Capital Development Corp. Head of Sales Luis A. Limlingan added.

“Some are expanding their reach by opening branches in untapped areas, while others enhance IT capabilities for seamless digital banking. These initiatives may weigh on short-term profitability but are ultimately beneficial for sustaining long-term competitiveness and growth.”

RATE CUTS TO DRIVE LENDING
Monetary policy actions here and in the United States will affect Philippine banks’ income prospects moving forward, Mr. Limlingan said, with further cuts likely to drive demand for credit and investment gains.

“We see loan growth and interest income as the key drivers of bank profitability for the remainder of the year, especially with holiday spending set to kick in over the next few months,” he said.

Meanwhile, even as more banks expand their consumer lending business for margin growth, asset quality risks remain low, he added.

“We are seeing banks expand their loan portfolios in the consumer segment which, by nature, carries a riskier profile compared to institutional lending. However, many banks have maintained, if not improved, their NPL ratios this year.

This indicates that banks remain meticulous in assessing the creditworthiness of their retail borrowers and are not compromising asset quality despite the steady growth in their loan portfolios.”

However, the weak global trade environment due to growing protectionism among major economies could pose an indirect risk to banks’ earnings as this could affect their borrowers’ operations and, in turn, their capacity to repay their loans, Mr. Limlingan said. — Aaron Michael C. Sy

Stuff to Do (09/05/25)

View great art, listen to a lecture, and have tea at The Pen

THE Peninsula Manila has unveiled large-scale artworks by National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz. Curated by Ricky Francisco of Fundacíon Sansó, the latest Art in Resonance program features three never-before seen abstract Art Protis tapestries by the renowned late national artist. The large-scale works are now on display at The Lobby until Sept. 30. This installation is the latest iteration of Art in Resonance, The Peninsula Hotels’ global contemporary arts program dedicated to supporting exceptional local and international artists, while creating deeply immersive art experiences for guests and visitors. In tandem with the exhibition, The Pen is offering guests a special Federico Aguilar Alcuaz Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea menu inspired by the artist’s works. It is available at The Lobby throughout the duration of the exhibit. The Art in Resonance Afternoon Tea is available at P3,290 per set and P5,290 with a flute of Champagne (exclusive of taxes). Meanwhile, at The Conservatory on Sept. 6, 2 p.m., the hotel will present a talk and film showing by Christian Aguilar, the National Artist’s son. The talk is complimentary, and seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The highlight of the talk is a 15-minute film on Aguilar Alcuaz’ works. The talk will be followed at 3 p.m. by the opening of Homage to Alcuaz, a special exhibition of over 40 paintings by young and mid-career artists honoring the national artist, including works by scholars of Fundacíon Sansó. The exhibition will be held at The Upper Lobby and will run from Sept. 6 to 7. For inquiries about the talk and the afternoon tea, call 8887-2888, extension 6694 for restaurant reservations, e-mail diningpmn@peninsula.com, or visit peninsula.com.

Go shopping with TikTok at Gateway

A TIKTOK SHOP activation has been mounted at the Quantum Skyview, Upper Ground B of Gateway Mall 2 in Araneta City, Cubao, Quezon City. It is meant to kick off TikTok’s 9.9 All-Out Shopping Sale by featuring various brands and deals. Its goal is to allow mallgoers to experience the energy, trends, and buzz of TikTok’s shopping scene in person. It runs until Sept. 9.

Watch Dear Evan Hansen at Solaire

GMG Productions presents the Manila run of the UK touring production of Tony Award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen at The Theatre at Solaire in Parañaque from Sept. 4 to Oct. 5. It tells the story of Evan, an anxious high school student longing for a sense of belonging, and features music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and a book by Steven Levenson. It stars Ellis Kirk in the titular role. Tickets are available through TicketWorld.

Attend a concert with Arthur Espiritu and young singers

THE concert Serenade: An Evening of Songs with Arthur Espiritu and Friends will take place on Sept. 5, 7 p.m., at Manila Pianos Showroom, Ronac Lifestyle Center, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati City. The show features 15 young singers who will showcase their vocal prowess and musicality after undergoing an intensive four-day workshop under the tutelage of Filipino tenor Arthur Espiritu. The concert will also feature Najib Ismail as pianist. For tickets, call 0920-954-0953, 0918-347-3027 or reach out via www.veniccio.com.

Catch the translation of a Pinter play

STAGES Production Specialists, Inc., with MusicArtes, Inc., presents an adaptation of Betrayal by Harold Pinter. Titled Kaliwaan, it is a Filipino translation by Guelan Varela-Luarca, directed by Loy Arcenas and starring Missy Maramara, Nor Domingo, and Ron Capinding. Its final weekend of performances on Sept. 5 to 7 — an extension from its August run — will be staged at The Mirror Studio Theater, SJG Bldg., 8463 Kalayaan Ave., Makati City. Tickets can be purchased through the Google Form here: https://bit.ly/KaliwaanMNL2025.

Celebrate Darna’s 75th anniversary at Comic Con

THE legendary Filipina superhero Darna is making a stop at SuperManila Comic Con 2025 on Sept. 6 and 7 at the Space, One Ayala, Makati City. An exhibit titled From Panels to Legacy: Lipad Darna will feature an array of memorabilia, a special tribute to Darna’s creators, and a heroic photo wall. Costumes from the ABS-CBN series Mars Ravelo: Darna that were worn by Jane de Leon as Darna and Janella Salvador as Valentina, will also be on display. Darna 75th commemorative shirts (in navy, royal blue, gray, and fern green) are available for pre-order via the ShirtsandPrintsPH Facebook account.

Check out Lexus’ pop-up for pets at Mitsukoshi

LEXUS will have a pet-friendly pop-up on Sept. 6 and 7 at Mitsukoshi Mall, Bonifacio Global City. It offers a series of workshops where pet owners can personalize dog accessories to take home. In partnership with LuxuriPets, the pop-up is co-hosted by “lifestyle influencer” Z Teo. Guests can join a workshop led by Romina of Bork and Hookies, which presents all-natural, human-grade, and zero-sugar ingredients for healthy gourmet pet treats. There will be recipe guides to take home. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration can be done here: https://brnw.ch/21wVoh7.

See a mall fashion show by Ligaya Couture

A FEMALE-LED fashion collective, Ligaya Couture, is set to present a fashion show under the theme “Myths and Majesty,” featuring 80 to 100 children and teens. Known for bold, youth-inspired designs, the brand aims to highlight its unique collections. The show takes place on Sept. 7 at the activity area of Farmers Plaza in Cubao, Quezon City.

Visit Robinsons Department Store’s beauty fest

A WIDE RANGE of beauty products will be showcased at Robinsons Department Store’s BeYOUty Fest 2025. Running throughout September, it offers 50% off on select beauty items. Every Friday, the store’s FriDeals promo will give P200 off with a minimum spend of P1,500 at the Beauty Section. From Sept. 13 to 19 at Robinsons Manila Midtown Atrium, a BeYOUty Fest gathering will have activities, exclusive offers, and freebies from top beauty brands. From Sept. 22 to 30, a beauty caravan will also be going around various campuses and in Bridgetowne, Quezon City.

Catch the original Filipino musical Walang Aray

TWO YEARS after its debut, the original Filipino musical Walang Aray is back at the PETA Theater Center, running from Sept. 5 until Oct. 12. It is centered on the love story between Julia and Tenyong, set during the Philippine revolution of 1896. Many of the award-winning lead cast from 2023 are returning: Shaira Opsimar and Marynor Madamesila who alternate in the role of Julia, and Gio Gahol and Jon Abella as Tenyong. They are joined by a new cast member, Lance Reblando who also plays the role of Julia. Tickets are available through Ticket2Me.

Bring the kids to Rep’s Wonderland

REPERTORY THEATER for Young Audiences presents the fantastical world of Alice in Wonderland from Sept. 7 to Dec. 14. Based on the book by Lewis Carroll, with music and lyrics by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman, it is directed by Joy Virata and Cara Barredo. As Alice follows the rabbit into Wonderland, the production highlights audience participation with kids in attendance. It runs at the REP Eastwood Theater in Quezon City. For ticket inquiries and showbuying opportunities, message REP’s pages @repertoryphilippines, call 0962-691-8540 or 0966-905-4013, or e-mail info@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org.

Watch Alicia Silverstone’s comeback

A THRILLER starring Alicia Silverstone has landed on digital screens via Lionsgate Play. Titled Pretty Thing, the movie revolves around a passionate toxic affair between Sophie, a high-ranking executive portrayed by Ms. Silverstone, and Elliot, a young waiter played by Karl Glusman. The casual romance turns into a dangerous obsession when Sophie decides to end the relationship. It is available on Lionsgate Play via PLDT Home, Cignal, and Smart.

Listen to Shanti sing about rehab

FILIPINO hip-hop sensation Shanti Dope has dropped his most personal work yet with his new single “Rehab,” a track that chronicles his battle with addiction, the road to recovery, and the power of love as a driving force for change. It is out now on all digital music streaming platforms.

BPI eyes agentic AI for lending

BPI FACEBOOK PAGE

BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is eyeing to use agentic artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate parts of its lending process, its top official said.

“We are beginning a project where we are going to put our whole lending platform on AI and hopefully use agentic AI to service some of the loan approvals and loan processes,” BPI President and CEO Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco told reporters on the sidelines of an event last week.

Mr. Limcaoco said they aim to roll out the project’s initial phase before yearend.

“That’s maybe a one- or two-year project, but we will do it in phases, and we hope to get the first phase up by maybe this December,” he said.

Agentic AI uses “agents” for specific tasks with minimal human supervision. These systems can work autonomously and make decisions based on data, probability, and patterns learned from interactions.

The official said BPI has already been tapping various AI-driven tools, particularly for customer service.

Last month, BPI revamped its digital assistant BEA Chat using an AI-powered ChatGPT platform. The chatbot can now accommodate service requests in real time, assist users with self-service transactions, and forward complex concerns to live agents. It is accessible 24/7 via the bank’s website and Facebook page.

“We’ve used it (AI) in credit modeling, but if you’re talking about the latest wave of AI, which is large language models and generative AI, then we do have a tool today that’s being used by the team where we are working off a ChatGPT platform where we ingested all our policies, procedures, and products. That way, our team is able to query our huge database… and get a consistent answer that we give to clients. So, that’s one,” Mr. Limcaoco added.

“We’re now also beginning to test what I would call AI-driven voice bots,” he said.

BPI’s net income rose by 7.02% to P16.44 billion in the second quarter to bring its first-semester profit to P32.96 billion. — Katherine K. Chan

Former PAL chief Santa Maria named president, CEO of MPTC

GILBERT GABRIEL F. SANTA MARIA — METRO PACIFIC INVESTMENTS CORP.

METRO PACIFIC Investments Corp. (MPIC) has appointed former Philippine Airlines, Inc. (PAL) chief Gilbert Gabriel F. Santa Maria as president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC).

In a media release on Thursday, Pangilinan-led MPIC said Mr. Santa Maria assumed the post on Sept. 1, replacing Jose Ma. K. Lim, who earlier served as interim president “to help stabilize MPTC’s leadership.”

Mr. Lim will continue to serve as a director of MPIC, MPTC, and their subsidiaries and affiliates.

Mr. Santa Maria was president and chief operating officer of PAL from 2019 to 2022, during which he guided the flag carrier through its Chapter 11 restructuring at the height of the pandemic.

“As president and CEO, (Mr.) Santa Maria will lead MPTC’s strategic growth while strengthening its customer-centric approach to serve millions of motorists and the commuting public across its tollway network,” MPIC said.

“He will help optimize the company’s operations while steering its continued expansion of toll road businesses in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam,” it added.

MPTC also announced key leadership changes in its units. Luis S. Reñon has been appointed president and general manager of NLEX Corp.; Metro Pacific Water’s Andrew B. Pangilinan will concurrently serve as president and general manager of MPT South Management Corp., which operates Cavitex and Calax; while Marisa Conde, MPIC vice-president for technical finance, was named officer-in-charge and interim chief finance officer of MPTC.

MPTC, the country’s largest toll road developer and operator, manages major expressways including the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (Cavitex), Cavite-Laguna Expressway (Calax), Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), and the NLEX Connector Road.

MPIC is one of three key Philippine units of Hong Kong-based First Pacific Co. Ltd., alongside Philex Mining Corp. and PLDT, Inc.

Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., holds a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Ashley Erika O. Jose

FUJIFILM Philippines launches photo exhibit to raise awareness against TB

L-R: Yuta Igarashi, FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc. general manager; Auwie Querri, Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc.; Eugene Caccam, Culion Foundation, Inc.; Louie Zepeda-Teng, TBpeople Philippines; Nilo Yacat, Center for Health Solutions and Innovations Philippines, Inc.; Leah Tambot, Samahan ng Lusog Baga Association, Inc.; Jilson Tiu, Photographer; Veejay Villafranca, Photographer; and Masahiro Uehara, FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc. president

FUJIFILM Philippines (FFPH), in partnership with health organizations, launched the “Frame the Fight” photo exhibit last Aug. 29-31 at One Ayala in Makati City to strengthen the fight against tuberculosis (TB). The three-day exhibit combined photography and storytelling to raise awareness and inspire action toward a TB-free future.

The opening day brought together nongovernmental organizations, advocacy groups and photographers as exhibitors to share stories, experiences and solutions in the fight against TB — one frame at a time. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts needed to curb one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases.

Among the participants were the Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc., Culion Foundation, Samahan ng Lusog Baga, TBpeople Philippines and the Center for Health Solutions and Innovations Philippines, Inc., along with photographers Jilson Tiu, an X-Photographer, and documentary photographer Veejay Villafranca.

“Through this exhibit, we hope to inspire Filipinos to see TB not only as a challenge, but as a fight we can overcome together. Frame by frame, story by story, we are one step closer to a TB-free Philippines,” FFPH President Masahiro Uehara said emphasizing the company’s commitment to healthcare advocacy.

The exhibit was opened to the public with the goal of inspiring awareness and engagement in the fight against tuberculosis. Visitors took snapshots at a Fujifilm Instax photo booth and posted statements of solidarity on the Fujifilm Unity Wall, each symbolizing a personal commitment to end TB. As the images came together, it reflected a larger message of hope: a future where TB is no longer a threat to Filipino families and communities.

The exhibit also underscored the need for united action, reminding the public that eliminating TB will require the combined efforts of government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, the private sector and communities. FFPH and its partners highlighted the importance of collaboration in moving closer to a TB-free Philippines.

 

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UK rock band Radiohead announces first tour in seven years

LONDON — Britain’s Radiohead announced a 20-date European tour in November and December on Wednesday, the first live performances by the rock band behind the seminal albums OK Computer and Kid A around the turn of the century.

“Last year, we got together to rehearse, just for the hell of it,” drummer Philip Selway said on Instagram.

“After a seven-year pause, it felt really good to play the songs again and reconnect with a musical identity that has become lodged deep inside all five of us.”

Radiohead, which also comprises singer and main songwriter Thom Yorke, guitarists Jonny Greenwood and Ed O’Brien, and bass player Colin Greenwood, will play four dates each in Madrid, Bologna, London, Copenhagen, and Berlin.

The group’s landmark third album, 1997’s OK Computer, explored themes like anxiety and alienation, marking a departure from the optimism of the Britpop era.

Radiohead’s return follows the reunion of Oasis, Britain’s biggest band of the 1990s, in a critically acclaimed tour this summer.

Fans can register to buy tickets for Radiohead’s tour from Friday. — Reuters

InstaPay, PESONet transactions rise

STOCK PHOTO | Image Jannoon028 from Freepik

THE VALUE of transactions made via InstaPay and PESONet grew by 40.32% year on year at end-July, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

Transactions coursed through the two automated clearing houses soared to P13.26 trillion in the first seven months from P9.45 trillion in the same period last year.

Meanwhile, the volume of transactions done through InstaPay and PESONet more than doubled to 1.96 billion as of July from 786.16 million a year ago.

Broken down, the total value of InstaPay transactions reached P5.96 trillion in the seven-month period, up by 52.82% from P3.9 trillion the year earlier.

The volume of transactions done through InstaPay surged by 159.15% to 1.89 billion from 729.32 million a year ago.

Meanwhile, the value of transactions coursed through PESONet amounted to P7.3 trillion in the first seven months, jumping by 31.3% from P5.56 trillion a year ago.

The volume of transactions that went through the payment gateway rose by 16.52% year on year to 66.23 million from 56.84 million.

InstaPay and PESONet are automated clearing houses launched under the central bank’s National Retail Payment System framework.

InstaPay is a real-time, low-value electronic fund transfer facility for transactions up to P50,000 and is mostly used for remittances and e-commerce, while PESONet is mainly used for high-value transactions and may be considered as an electronic alternative to paper-based checks.

Analysts said the continued increase in InstaPay and PESONet transactions shows that more Filipinos are now using digital channels.

“It reflects the continued digital shift in financial behavior, driven by greater consumer trust in electronic payments, expanding merchant acceptance, and more inclusive onboarding by banks and e-wallets,” said John Paolo R. Rivera, senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies.

“The… increase in InstaPay and PESONet transactions reflects the strong momentum of digitalization in the Philippines. This growth is driven by sustained adoption of e-wallets and mobile banking, the continued expansion of e-commerce, and government initiatives promoting financial inclusion. Businesses and consumers alike are embracing the convenience and security of real-time and high-value digital transfers, making these platforms integral to everyday transactions,” Union Bank of the Philippines, Inc. Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said.

Reinielle Matt M. Erece, economist at Oikonomia Advisory & Research, Inc., added that the BSP’s efforts to strengthen the regulatory framework for financial technologies (fintech) has also helped boost Filipinos’ acceptance of digital banking services.

“These efforts will greatly improve confidence in the use of fintech for payments, transactions, and investments,” he said.

“We may see stronger growth in the latter half as the holiday may greatly induce more household spending. Further, lower interest rates may start to translate to the rates offered by banks which will increase more spending; thus, these alternative payment instruments will become busier.”

Mr. Asuncion said transactions made via the two clearing houses could post steady growth for the rest of the year.

“The shift toward cashless payments has become structural, supported by the BSP’s digital payments roadmap and the increasing reliance on online platforms for both retail and business transactions. With economic activity picking up and digital infrastructure improving, these payment systems are well-positioned to sustain double-digit growth,” he said.

“Momentum is likely to continue in the second half of 2025 as digital adoption becomes more embedded in everyday economic activity. Continued improvements in internet access, mobile banking innovations, and the push for interoperability (via QR Ph and other initiatives) will reinforce this trend,” Mr. Rivera added.

The BSP wants digital payments to make up 60-70% of the total volume of retail payments by 2028 in line with the Philippine Development Plan.

The share of online payments in monthly retail transactions stood at 57.4% in terms of volume and 59% in value terms in 2024, according to the BSP’s 2024 Status of Digital Payments in the Philippines report. These are up from 52.8% and 55.3%, respectively, in 2023. — Katherine K. Chan

PHL targets 2026 to start accepting nuclear energy project proposals

STOCK PHOTO | Image by Lukáš Lehotský from Unsplash

By Sheldeen Joy Talavera, Reporter

THE Department of Energy (DoE) plans to begin accepting applications for nuclear energy projects by 2026 as part of efforts to introduce nuclear power into the country’s energy mix by 2032.

“Although there is uncertainty about the availability of the technology, our target basically is that the Philippines will be ready to accept applications for nuclear projects by 2026,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin told reporters on Wednesday.

The Energy chief said this is to allow proponents to prepare ahead of the 2032 target.

Under the Philippine Energy Plan, the country aims to integrate nuclear energy into the power mix with at least 1,200 megawatts (MW) of capacity by 2032, doubling it to 2,400 MW by 2045 and to 4,800 MW by 2050.

To ensure safety in utilizing nuclear energy, the DoE said it has begun discussions on its environmental impact.

The DoE-led Nuclear Energy Program-Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), through its Subcommittee 5, organized a technical workshop for concerned government agencies to tackle the environmental regulations for nuclear power plant facility projects.

“This undertaking defines the Nuclear Energy Program’s commitment to pursuing the integration of comprehensive environmental safeguards with the Philippines’ peaceful transition into nuclear energy utilization,” DoE Legal Services Director Myra Fiera F. Roa said in a statement on Thursday.

Ms. Roa said the workshop aims to address remaining challenges, enhance tools, and ensure that environmental compliance certificate applications “embody not only our regulatory compliance, but also public trust and scientific integrity.”

On the part of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Environmental Management Bureau Director John Edward T. Ang said the agency is committed to ensuring economic sustainability via the environmental impact assessment system.

“While there are perceived benefits to the nuclear route, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that its implementation will be in harmony with the environment and our people,” he said.

Amid growing interest from potential proponents to pursue either conventional nuclear power plants or small modular reactors, the government is coordinating to align applicable environmental regulations for nuclear projects.

“The vision of having nuclear energy is no longer a distant discussion. We are working to put in place a process to ensure that environmental risks are addressed before projects are rolled out. We can make economic progress and maintain the integrity of the environment,” Ms. Roa said.

Meanwhile, Ms. Garin said a feasibility study being carried out by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co. Ltd., along with other South Korean partners KEPCO KPS, a subsidiary of Korea Electric Power Corp., and Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction, for the rehabilitation of the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) is expected to be completed by February next year.

BNPP, located at Napot Point in Morong, Bataan, was completed in 1985, two years after the original target, according to the Philippine Nuclear Energy Program.

The twin developments of the People Power Revolution and the Chernobyl Accident in 1986 led to the decision to mothball the BNPP.

The National Power Corp., as the designated caretaker of the power plant, placed it into preservation mode.

Del Monte Pacific Limited to hold Annual General Meeting in Singapore on Sept. 29

 

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Synergy Grid & Development Phils., Inc. to hold Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on Oct. 16 via remote communication

 

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Venice Film Festival: No reason to boycott actors over Gaza, director Schnabel says

In the Hand of Dante (2025)
In the Hand of Dante (2025)

VENICE — US director Julian Schnabel on Wednesday criticized calls for two of the stars of his latest film, Gal Gadot and Gerard Butler, not to show up at the Venice Film Festival over their support for Israel.

Last month a collective of hundreds of film industry figures, Venice4Palestine, urged the festival to take a robust stand over the war in Gaza.

The group subsequently called for Israeli actor Ms. Gadot and Britain’s Mr. Butler, who once took part in a fundraiser for the Israeli Defence Forces, to be barred from the 11-day event.

Both actors appear in Mr. Schnabel’s star-studded movie In the Hand of Dante, which is being premiered at Venice on Wednesday. Neither actor is set to appear on the red carpet — although Ms. Gadot, for one, had never been expected to attend according to pre-festival planning notes.

Asked about the push to bar actors for their political beliefs, Mr. Schnabel said: “I think there’s no reason to boycott artists. I selected those actors for their merits as actors, and they did an extraordinary job in the film, and that’s about it.”

Festival director Alberto Barbera told Reuters last week that Venice welcomed open debate, but dismissed calls for anyone to be excluded from the festival.

In the Hand of Dante follows author Nick Tosches as he is drawn into a violent quest to verify the origins of a manuscript believed to be Dante’s The Divine Comedy. Jumping between the 21st and 14th centuries, the film interweaves the parallel lives of Tosches and Dante, both played by US actor Oscar Isaac.

The film also stars Al Pacino, John Malkovich, Martin Scorsese, Jason Momoa, and Louis Cancelmi. It is being shown out of competition in Venice, meaning it is not in the running for the Golden Lion award.

The project was a labor of love for Mr. Schnabel, an American painter-turned-filmmaker, who previously directed art house movies The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Before Night Falls, and At Eternity’s Gate. — Reuters

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