Flanked by business leaders, Macron meets Xi as EU prepares tougher trade rules

December 4, 2025 | 6:29 pm

BEIJING — French President Emmanuel Macron met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday, seeking stronger commercial ties, as the European Union (EU) prepares to toughen up its trade rules.

A large business delegation is accompanying Mr. Macron on his fourth state visit to the world’s second-largest economy.

Mr. Macron will travel to Chengdu in southwestern Sichuan province on Friday, accompanied by Mr. Xi, lavish treatment since the Chinese President seldom joins visiting leaders outside the capital, but Mr. Xi is not expected to sign off on a long-awaited Airbus order or offer Paris relief from duties on EU brandy imports, 99% of which come from France.

Beijing wants to ease trade frictions with Brussels over its heavily subsidized electric vehicle sector, which saw China slap retaliatory tariffs on some European goods, but it also recognizes that committing to a 500-jet Airbus order would weaken its leverage over the US, which is pressing for a Boeing deal, and over Europe as it prepares to unveil new economic security policies.

Mr. Macron in the past has sought to project a robust European front in dealing with China, while being careful not to antagonize Beijing, with China a key export market for many of France’s most prominent companies.

Top executives from Airbus, France’s largest bank BNP Paribas, electrical giant Schneider and train maker Alstom, along with leaders of the French dairy and poultry industry groups, have joined Mr. Macron, who will sign a series of agreements with Mr. Xi after their meeting.

China is France’s seventh-largest trading partner, buying around $35 billion in goods each year, according to Chinese customs data. About 10% of those products are cosmetics, with aircraft parts and alcoholic spirits among other key exports.

For its part, France takes some $45 billion worth of Chinese products, mostly low-value parcels through online platforms like Shein of cheap clothes, accessories and gadgets direct from Chinese factories, thanks to an EU customs waiver on purchases below €150 ($174.86). ($1 = 0.8579 euros). — Reuters

Child deaths will rise this year as aid cuts reverse progress, says Gates

December 4, 2025 | 6:29 pm

Kids-children — PHILIPPINE STAR/NOEL B. PABALATE

LONDON — Around 200,000 more children will likely die before their fifth birthday this year than in 2024 as international aid cuts undermine decades of progress, the Gates Foundation said on Thursday.

The projected increase would mark the first rise in preventable child deaths this century, Bill Gates said, from an estimated 4.6 million in 2024 to 4.8 million this year. Child deaths have roughly halved since 2000.

“For decades, the world made steady progress saving children’s lives. But now, as challenges mount, that progress is reversing,” said Mr. Gates, chair of the eponymous foundation, in a foreword to its annual Goalkeepers report.

AID CUTS HAVE SPREAD BEYOND THE US
The report tracks progress towards the United Nations’ sustainable development goals on reducing poverty and improving health. It usually comes out in September but was delayed this year due to the uncertainty over global health funding.

International aid cuts began with the US at the beginning of the year but have since spread to other major donors like Britain and Germany. Overall, global development assistance for health fell by just under 27% this year compared to 2024, the report says.

The cuts are a key reason for the reversal in progress on child mortality, Mr. Gates said, although other issues, like countries facing mounting debt and fragile health systems, are also factors. Earlier this year, Mr. Gates warned that the cuts would lead to more children dying.

If the cuts are permanent, that could mean between 12 million and 16 million more child deaths by 2045, the report adds, depending on funding levels. This year, the increase in deaths could see them match 2023’s number, the latest year for which the World Health Organization has data.

The figures in the report are based on modelling from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at Washington University.

Mr. Gates urged governments and individuals to step up and focus on innovative new tools as well as proven solutions, like vaccination and investment in primary healthcare, to boost child health. — Reuters

Australia says the world will follow social media ban as Meta starts blocking teens

December 4, 2025 | 6:28 pm

socmed-mobile phone — A person using a smartphone is seen in front of displayed social media logos in this illustration taken on May 25, 2021. — REUTERS

SYDNEY — Australia’s internet regulator said a teen social media ban would be the first domino to fall in a global push to rein in Big Tech, as Meta’s Instagram, Facebook and Threads began locking out hundreds of thousands of accounts ahead of a deadline next week.

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said she had initially expressed concern about the “blunt-force” approach of blocking under-16s from social media, but she had come to embrace it after incremental regulatory changes were not effective enough.

“We’ve reached a tipping point,” Ms. Inman Grant said on Thursday at the Sydney Dialogue, a cyber summit.

“Our data is the currency that fuels these companies, and there are these powerful, harmful, deceptive design features that even adults are powerless to fight against. What chance do our children have?”

Governments around the world were watching as the Australian law takes effect on Dec. 10, and “I’ve always referred to this as the first domino, which is why they pushed back,” she added, referring to the platforms.

After more than a year campaigning against the ban which carries a fine of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million), platforms owned by Meta, TikTok, Snap’s Snapchat and Alphabet’s YouTube have said they will comply.

Some 96% of Australian teenagers under 16 — more than a million of the country’s 27 million population — have social media accounts, according to eSafety.

Although the law takes effect on Dec. 10, Meta’s Instagram, Facebook and Threads began deactivating accounts from Thursday, according to screenshots seen by Reuters.

Most other affected platforms have started contacting underage users advising them to download their photos and contacts and offering the choice of deleting their accounts or freezing them until they turn 16.

“It’s a great thing and I’m glad that the pressure is taken off the parents because there’s so many mental health implications,” said Jennifer Jennison, a Sydney mother.

“Give my kids a break after school and they can rest and hang out with the family.”

At the conference, Ms. Inman Grant said lobbying by the platforms had apparently involved taking their case to the US government, which has asked her to testify at its congressional House Judiciary about what it called an attempt to exert extra-territorial power over American free speech.

Ms. Inman Grant didn’t say if she would agree to the request but noted that “by virtue of writing to me and asking me to appear before the committee, that’s also using extra-territorial reach.” ($1 = 1.5140 Australian dollars). — Reuters

Instamed Philippines introduces Regenerative Peptides Without Injection

December 4, 2025 | 4:45 pm

Say goodbye to needles. Instamed Philippines is launching its game-changing line of Oral Dissolving Peptides, offering a simple, non-invasive way to enhance your health.

Instamed Philippines is excited to introduce its new line of Regenerative Peptides Without Injection. These innovative products combine InstaRelease™ Technology with oral, sublingual peptide strips for an easy, non-invasive alternative to traditional injectable peptides.

The product range includes Thymosin Alpha-1, PT-141+, CJC-1295, GHK-Cu, and BPC-157, each designed to support various aspects of health, from immune function to tissue repair and overall rejuvenation. These oral strips are designed for quick absorption, ensuring that users receive the full benefits of the peptides without the need for needles.

Instamed’s new product line aims to make regenerative health treatments more accessible, practical, and effective for everyone. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, enhance your energy, or improve your skin health, these products are designed to meet the needs of today’s health-conscious individuals.

The upcoming product launch will showcase the benefits of these oral peptide strips and demonstrate how they can seamlessly integrate into a daily wellness routine.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the science behind the technology, see live demonstrations, and hear firsthand from users who have experienced positive results with Instamed’s products.

Instamed Philippines is proud to bring these cutting-edge wellness solutions to the market, continuing its commitment to providing accessible, science-backed health innovations.

To learn more about the full peptide line, visit the Instamed website and explore how these products can support your wellness goals: www.instamedph.com.

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Bayanihan at malasakit: PwC PH advances global corporate sustainability efforts

December 4, 2025 | 4:35 pm

Isla Lipana & Co./PwC Philippines amplifies its corporate sustainability efforts in conjunction with the PwC global network’s “Community First” campaign, seeking to create meaningful impact on underserved and vulnerable communities across the world.

The Philippine member firm joins the PwC global network in simultaneous initiatives in key cities around the globe, with a hefty lineup of programs under the pillars of community engagement, education, sustainable development, and environmental stewardship.

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PwC Philippines Chairman and Senior Partner Roderick Danao shares that the firm’s corporate sustainability efforts reflect the PwC global network’s commitment to building trust and solving important problems in society.

“Most, if not all, societal problems are rooted in inequality. While we cannot put an end to this on our own, we share the vision and do our part in closing the gap. In the space of that effort, we hope to inspire and create long-term change for our beneficiaries,” Rick says.

As the nation confronts a massive shortage of 165,000 classrooms along with other basic school assets based on 2025 data from the Department of Education, PwC Philippines thus boosted its implementation of “Seat of Hope.” Since 2013, over 10,220 chairs have been donated to 122 under-resourced schools nationwide, reaching as far as Zamboanga del Sur. In FY2025 alone, 1,200 chairs were provided, benefiting approximately 2,400 students and fostering a conducive learning environment.

Meanwhile, with a nearly 40% dropout rate among Filipino college students based on 2021–2022 data from the Commission on Higher Education, the firm has expanded its scholarship program. From having only 20 scholars, the program now offers financial aid to 120 senior high school and college students from low-income families year on year, supporting their pursuit of higher education. In FY2025, 57 new scholars were admitted to the program. As PwC Philippines bears the end view of translating education to employment opportunities, 20 of the 27 scholars who passed the Certified Public Accountant Licensure Exam (CPALE) joined the firm this year.

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A departure from traditional CSR, “Tourism with a Purpose” is a key initiative that integrates teambuilding, volunteerism, and support for local tourism. Launched in 2014, Tourism with a Purpose encourages employees to integrate volunteer work into the firm’s teambuilding activities, strengthening community ties and promoting responsible tourism. Initiatives in FY2025 focused on education, environmental protection, and animal welfare. These included beach cleanups in Boracay, mangrove planting in Bohol, distribution of school supplies in Aklan, and animal welfare initiatives in Batangas. Since the program’s inception, over 50 volunteer sessions from various lines of service have been accomplished nationwide, gathering over 500 volunteers each year.

Furthering its goals of community engagement, health, and wellbeing, PwC Philippines touts its “100 Days of Christmas” program. Launched in 2023 initially as a feeding program, it has now expanded into nutrition-focused activities and gift-giving. In merely two years, the firm has collaborated with foundations, community centers, schools, and parishes to conduct 16 engagements, bringing warmth and cheer to more than 3,000 children from underserved communities.

PwC Philippines also institutionalized its environmental initiatives last year by establishing partnership with SM for a quarterly coastal cleanup at Manila Bay. The firm galvanizes its volunteers for a daybreak cleanup of the Manila shoreline, especially during key celebrations such as World Ocean Day, International Coastal Cleanup Day, and National Day of the Youth for Climate Action.

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As a member of the UN Global Compact, PwC Philippines strengthens its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), integrating these principles into its sustainability initiatives. In particular, the firm aligns its projects with SDGs on health, education, work and economic growth, reduction of inequalities, and marine conservation.

“At PwC Philippines, sustainability involves understanding the unique needs of every community we touch. By aligning our projects with the broader framework of the UN SDGs, we make sure that our efforts are purposive and impactful,” says Catherine Lipana-Gomez, Deals and Corporate Finance and ESG Partner. “We strive to create ripples of positive change that go beyond today, ultimately fostering a more sustainable future for everyone.”

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Fuji-Haya Electric showcases power protection excellence at the 50^th IIEE Annual National Convention

December 4, 2025 | 4:15 pm

Fuji-Haya Electric Corporation of the Philippines proudly participated in the 50th Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (IIEE) Annual National Convention and 3E XPO, held at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, from Nov. 26-29, 2025. This landmark gathering of electrical practitioners and industry leaders marked the golden anniversary of the IIEE—celebrating five decades of integrity, innovation, empowerment and excellence.

As one of the country’s leading providers of power protection and electrical distribution solutions, Fuji-Haya Electric reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, reliability, and engineering excellence through its impressive exhibit lineup. This year’s booth featured the AIDA System, Ring Main Unit (RMU), Transformers, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), Fully Type-Tested Low Voltage Switchgear (LVSG), Busducts, and Unit Panels—all designed to deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable power for various modern mixed use developments and infrastructures.

Carrying its 2025 corporate theme, “Beyond Expectations: Powering Progress, Expanding Horizons,” Fuji-Haya Electric celebrated its continued growth and 46 years of service in the Philippines. The theme reflects the company’s ongoing mission to go beyond conventional standards—developing power solutions that drive progress, enhance sustainability, and empower engineers to build smarter, more resilient energy systems.

Throughout the five-day convention, the Fuji-Haya booth became a hub of engagement, attracting hundreds of engineers, industry professionals, and trade visitors. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the company’s technical displays, witness live demonstrations, and engage in discussions with Fuji-Haya’s team of experts. These interactions reinforced the company’s reputation as a trusted partner in power protection, energy efficiency, and system reliability.

The IIEE Annual National Convention remains the country’s premier event for electrical professionals, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, technology presentation, and industry collaboration. Fuji-Haya’s participation aligns with its goal to continuously engage with the engineering community, support professional development, and contribute to the advancement of the Philippine power sector.

As the company looks forward to the years ahead, Fuji-Haya Electric continues to expand its horizons—investing in innovation, safety, and sustainability. With its strong foundation built over four decades, the company remains steadfast in delivering solutions that energize industries, protect power systems, and inspire engineering excellence—beyond expectations.

#FujiHayaElectric
#IIEE50thConvention
#BeyondExpectations
#PoweringProgress
#ElectricalEngineeringPH

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Let’s unpack outsourcing F&A in the Philippines

December 4, 2025 | 3:29 pm

Manila Bookkeepers shares about the edge of outsourced bookkeeping in meeting global accounting demands

The Philippines continues to attract foreign companies seeking trained accountants and reliable data systems, showing a steady demand for outsourced accounting services.

Data from the Association of CPAs in Public Practice, Inc. show that more apply their training in corporate roles, adding to a broad community of professionals with experience in audits and financial reporting.

Atty. Jose B. Calsas Jr., Chief Financial Officer and Legal Compliance Head of D&V Philippines, said foreign companies value the technical skills and workplace discipline of Filipino teams.

“The Philippines, as everyone knows, has a very good accounting background in terms of our professionals. We have a very large pool of licensed certified public accountants,” Atty. Calsas said in an interview on an episode of Businessworld’s B-Side podcast. “These professionals can do both local and international finance and accounting. Of course, our Filipino accountants are imbued with our character, which is part of our culture.”

Many foreign companies that hire Filipino talent comment on the advantage of the country’s education system, as accounting programs in the Philippines draw heavily from U.S. standards and international frameworks.

“We know by our history that our education is largely patterned after the United States. Whenever our accountants are studying accounting, they’re also aware already of the U.S. standards and even the international financial reporting standards,” he added.

Flexible service

Companies often turn to outsourcing as they look for ways to manage expenses. Some firms do not need full-time accountants, especially if they handle a limited number of daily transactions.

Atty. Calsas explained that work involving a small set of receivables or fewer than 100 entries a week can be handled by outsourced staff. Such a setup allows companies to reduce costs tied to full-time employment and office space.

“Outsourcing your accounting work, your bookkeeping work, not only lowers the cost, but also gives you better handling of the overheads,” he explained.

Remote work is common among outsourced accountants; but firms like Manila Bookkeepers still follow strict data rules, keeping access points controlled even when staff members work from home or other locations. Atty. Calsas added that clients also benefit from indirect support from managers and supervisors who review the assigned accountant’s work.

Such support, according to him, helps maintain quality when tasks shift from accounts payable to bank reconciliation or other work. He said outsourcing appeals to firms with workloads that rise during holidays and slow down in other months.

“I think it is practical for business owners to scale up or scale down their outsourcing needs as needed. For instance, during the coming peak season and the Christmas period, they can outsource more bookkeepers if required. They can also customize the service, such as requesting only accounts receivable or only accounts payable processing,” he said.

Efficient filing and reporting

Accounting firms serving foreign clients also report steady demand from organizations that need help with Philippine filings. Atty. Calsas said many overseas executives expect simple online submissions, but local rules require more documents and more frequent deadlines.

“For our local tax and regulations, when a foreign business opts to outsource its finance and accounting to a company like Manila Bookkeepers, we take care of managing and simplifying the complex tax laws and regulations, making sure these foreign clients are taken care of,” he explained.

Bookkeeping teams monitor updates from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Congress, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, and the Department of Trade and Industry. Firms send notices to clients so they can adjust their plans.

Atty. Calsas added that some clients no longer hire separate lawyers or tax specialists because outsourced teams already coordinate with government offices.

“In Manila Bookkeepers, we ensure that the client no longer needs to worry about these things. We make sure they are compliant with the requirements,” Atty. Calsas noted. “We emphasize to the client the importance of understanding local laws, tax rules and regulations, and we help them understand that it is necessary to file the required documents.”

Companies also seek outside help when they need specialists who can prepare key performance indicators or analytical reports. Atty. Calsas said some firms have general accountants but no one trained to produce advanced financial data for board meetings or management reviews. Outsourcing allows them to request these reports monthly or quarterly.

“Those that are better handled by an outsourcing team are recurring tasks and non-decision-making duties,” he noted. “The key is to ensure that the standard processes are followed. By outsourcing these tasks, the accounting team can review and discuss improvements, which is something we always do for clients.”

Accounting firms aim to make filing requirements clear so companies know what to submit and when. As more groups explore operations in the Philippines, providers expect demand to remain steady.

Moreover, outsourced bookkeeping overcoming language barriers. The flexibility of online systems allows bookkeepers to switch between languages, ensuring accurate reporting. For example, Dutch clients using the Exact system can operate it in English, while local staff maintain precise records. Atty. Calsas described the learning curve as “fascinating” and said it demonstrates how global outsourcing can expand local employees’ skills.

A long-term partner

Atty. Calsas urged entrepreneurs to treat outsourced firms not as vendors but as long-term partners. This approach, he said, strengthens loyalty among accountants who learn the details of each client’s business.

“Here in Manila Bookkeepers, we treat our foreign clients as partners, and we encourage them to view us the same way. Not only as a company, but also as a team of people who work with them,” he added. “By seeing the accountant or bookkeeper assigned to you as a partner, you value that person, the relationship, and the work environment that keeps that person with the account or client.”

Listen to the entire BusinessWorld B-Side episode, now available on Spotify and Youtube.

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A click closer to better care

December 4, 2025 | 2:55 pm

1_SM-DigiKonsulta_Krus-na-Ligas-Health-Center-OL — A doctor at Krus na Ligas Health Center uses DigiKonsulta to digitalize and manage the patient's medical records during consultation.

SM Foundation leverages technology to help transform healthcare in communities

For decades, community health centers survived on paper. Handwritten charts, overstuffed logbooks, and filing cabinets formed the backbone of daily operations.

Although the paper system had long been serviceable, it slowed health professionals: locating one patient record could take several minutes, missing charts derailed schedules, and limited storage left staff scrambling for makeshift filing solutions in already cramped spaces.

Through its community consultations, SM Foundation began to pivot and transition to help redefine how care is delivered in communities through DigiKonsulta.

The digital pivot

DigiKonsulta is a component of the Wellness Center Program of the SM Foundation.

In tandem with infrastructure upgrades, the initiative was designed to strengthen health centers for the digital age and help them meet compliance, accreditation, and licensing requirements from relevant government agencies. It serves as both an upgrade and an equalizer, ensuring that even small or remote facilities can meet modern healthcare standards.

On the ground

Digitalization transforms healthcare delivery. With DigiKonsulta supporting efficient medical record management, Dr. James can shift focus from paperwork to patient-centered care.

At Krus na Ligas Health Center, one of the facilities where DigiKonsulta has been rolled out, healthcare professionals shared that the change is visible from the moment one enters: refurbished consultation rooms, new equipment, organized pharmacy and storage areas, improved patient flow, and functional digital systems steadily replacing the old paper trail.

For Dr. James Demetria, the center’s physician, the changes improve both efficiency and morale.

“Pumasok na tayo sa digital age kung saan expected ang mabilis na pag-access, seamless collaboration at matibay na security sa mga data at records. Sa bagong sitwasyon o panahong ito, naging limitation ng lumang sistema ang pagiging mano-mano ng mga records dahil ito ay masyadong time-consuming. Imbis na makakapagbigay ka pa ng iba pang services, gugugulin mo yung oras mo sa paghahanap ng mga records,” he said.

The shift to digital records has drastically reduced the time staff spend searching for charts or re-documenting information. With a few clicks, medical histories and treatment notes are readily accessible, enabling faster consultations, more efficient follow-ups, and better continuity of care.

“Mas mabilis na naming nakikita ang records ng pasyente. Mas maayos ang documentation; nabawasan nang malaki ang oras na ginugugol sa papeles,” he shared.

Teleconsultation has become especially important for patients unable to visit during heavy rains, emergencies, or periods of isolation. Care that was once limited by distance or weather now has a virtual lifeline.

“Malaki ang naiambag ng DigiKonsulta ng SM Foundation. Nagagamit po namin ito sa teleconsult at sa mga times na hindi po maganda ang panahon, naibibigay pa rin po namin ang aming services thru teleconsultation,” he added.

One click, broader scope

The SM DigiKonsulta Station at Polomolok East Community Clinic represents a commitment to accessible healthcare innovation. By integrating digital consultation technology into community clinics, patients receive efficient, quality care while healthcare providers leverage modern tools to improve patient outcomes and service delivery.

Change is scaling far beyond Metro Manila. Fifteen other facilities under the SM Foundation’s Wellness Center Program now have DigiKonsulta, including those in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), where health access is constrained by distance and limited resources.

In South Cotabato, the renovated Baluan Rural Health Unit and Polomolok East Community Clinic now offer expanded services — from TB therapy to laboratory diagnostics — supported by DigiKonsulta’s telemedicine and EMR systems.

The digital shift has eased the burden on health workers, freeing them from paperwork to focus on counseling, education, and direct patient care.

“Sa tulong po ng DigiKonsulta, nabawasan ang administrative burden kaya mas nakakapag-focus kami sa tunay na layunin. Ang pag-aalaga at pag-educate sa aming mga pasyente. Mas confident din kami dahil alam naming accurate at updated ang data,” Dr. James said.

In communities long challenged by limited healthcare access, programs like DigiKonsulta provide a gateway to inclusive, reliable care. For Dr. James and the thousands of patients served each year, this digital shift transforms progress into tangible, everyday hope.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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Advancing Transparency in Governance

December 4, 2025 | 1:37 pm

Any path that leads to more transparency is the path the government needs to take, according to lawmaker Brian Poe Llamanzares.

Interview by Almira Martinez and Edg Eva
Video editing by Richard Mendoza

Pioneer Insurance partners with Lalamove for ‘Goods Insurance’

December 4, 2025 | 12:10 pm

Pioneer-5-1-OL — In photo are Lalamove Operations Manager Jeff Balanga, Lalamove Managing Director Djon Nacario, Pioneer Insurance President and CEO Atty. Betty Medialdea, Pioneer Insurance General Accident Head Jenny Tolentino, and Pioneer Group Head Lorenzo Chan, Jr.

Pioneer Insurance teamed up with Lalamove to provide more secure and reliable deliveries through Goods Insurance. Effective Nov. 7, every Lalamove delivery is automatically insured for up to P20,000 against loss, damage, or robbery.

The partnership comes at an ideal time when deliveries are expected to increase as the holiday season draws near.

“Filipinos use Lalamove for all their delivery requirements, from business deliveries to family gifts, especially when the holiday season gets hectic,” said Djon Nacario, managing director of Lalamove Philippines. “The automatic P20,000 insurance coverage applied to every Lalamove booking strengthens that trust by giving users built-in coverage through Pioneer Insurance.”

To complement Lalamove’s swift deliveries, the insurance claim process has been simplified. Claims can be filed by completing the Lalamove Google Form, submitting a photo of the lost or damaged item along with the purchase or replacement invoice, and then receiving payment within seven days.

“This partnership is not just about working together,” said Armand Pesigan, Pioneer Insurance Underwriting and Claims head. “It’s about making things easier for our customers. By combining Lalamove’s speed with Pioneer Insurance’s dependability, we are creating solutions that simplify claims and improve every customer experience.”

Pioneer continues to deliver innovative solutions with Lalamove, providing coverage that prioritizes customer welfare.

Goods Insurance is already active for Lalamove users. For more information, visit https://www.lalamove.com/en-ph/blog/lalamove-goods-insurance.

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Timeless Traditions at Dusit Thani Manila

December 4, 2025 | 11:30 am

This festive season, Dusit Thani Manila invites guests to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year through Timeless Traditions, a thoughtfully curated collection of experiences that embody the joy, warmth, and elegance of the holidays. From luxurious stays and exquisite dining to serene spa indulgences, each moment is designed to bring loved ones together in the spirit of gratitude and celebration.

Stay, Celebrate, and Cherish

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the season with exclusive room packages designed to make your holidays truly unforgettable.

Christmas Rush Room Package

Starting at PHP 6,800++ for Dusit Gold members, this offer includes buffet breakfast for two adults and two children (11 years old and below), a charming festive keepsake, and a 20% discount on buffet dining (excluding Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1).

New Year Escape Room Package

Welcome 2026 in style with rates from PHP 11,050++ per room per night for Dusit Gold members. The package includes breakfast for two adults and two children, two entrance tickets to the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, and a special New Year turn-down amenity — all designed to make the transition to the new year truly memorable.

An Exquisite Welcome to 2026

From 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Dec. 31, 2025, join us for an unforgettable countdown experience featuring VIP tables, premium beverages, and festive bites in an elegant setting.

Choose your perfect spot for the night:

Lobby VIP Tables

Php 22,000 net (Table of 4) | Php 30,000 net (Table of 6)

Includes a bottle of champagne, unlimited red or white wine, premium spirits, beer, sodas, and chilled juices, complemented by a charcuterie platter

Mezzanine VIP Tables

Php 12,000 net (Table of 4) | Php 18,000 net (Table of 6)

Includes a bottle of Chandon Brut, unlimited red or white wine, premium spirits, beer, sodas, and chilled juices, served with a charcuterie platter

Festive Flavours: Dining to Remember

At The Pantry, guests can look forward to lavish buffet spreads featuring both international and local favourites:

Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) — Lunch at PHP 3,200++ | Dinner at PHP 3,800++
Christmas Day (Dec. 25) — Lunch & Dinner at PHP 3,500++
New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) — Dinner at PHP 3,950++
New Year’s Day (Jan. 1, 2026) — Brunch at PHP 2,800++

Live entertainment and signature beverages set the perfect tone for an elegant celebration.

At Benjarong, the hotel’s signature Thai restaurant, guests may delight in festive à la carte selections or indulge in the five-course New Year’s Eve Dinner at PHP 4,500++ per person, inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine and two tickets to the Countdown Party. Private dining rooms for up to 12 guests are also available with a consumable minimum of PHP 40,000 per room.

At UMU, the festivities take on a refined Japanese flair with exquisite sushi and sashimi, premium A5 Wagyu, and signature sukiyaki — all served in an atmosphere of understated sophistication.

Gifts of Taste and Elegance

The art of gifting is redefined through Dusit Thani Manila’s Festive Hampers, each curated to bring joy and refinement to your celebrations.

Premier Hamper at PHP 3,950 net — featuring gourmet delights such as Orell’s banana chips, raspberry chocolate cookies, festive grissini sticks, and more.

Grand Hamper at PHP 5,950 net — inclusive of all Premier items, plus panettone, gingerbread biscuits, and a bottle of fine wine.

Orders may be placed by calling +63 (2) 7238-8888 or emailing restaurant.dtmn@dusit.com.

A Season of Wellness

The holidays are also a time to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate. Devarana Spa offers a festive treatment that combines indulgence with tranquillity — enjoy a Gingerbread Body Scrub and a Therapeutic Massage starting at PHP 3,288 net.

Available until Dec. 31, 2025, this experience is a perfect way to restore balance amid the festive celebrations.

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Bangladesh’s Gen-Z battles to gain political ground after ousting Hasina

December 4, 2025 | 11:15 am

Dhaka, Bangladesh-man — A MAN pushing a loaded trishaw in Dhaka, Bangladesh. — ADLI WAHID-UNSPLASH

DHAKA — Thousands in Bangladesh flocked to hear the plans of the students who toppled long-time leader Sheikh Hasina when they launched a new political party this year, but now it finds itself struggling to translate the street power into votes.

Fighting to deliver on its promise to free the nation from decades of nepotism and two-party dominance, the student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) faces entrenched rivals with deep networks and resources as polls approach in February.

“Our organization is weak because we haven’t had enough time to build it,” said its chief Nahid Islam, prominent in last year’s deadly anti-government protests who served briefly in the caretaker administration under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

“We are aware of this, but we are still taking on the challenge,” added the 27-year-old, speaking from the party office in a high-rise in Dhaka, the capital, where one wall was covered in graffiti depicting crowds in revolt.

POLLS SHOW PARTY PUSHED TO THIRD PLACE
Opinion polls show the NCP, which aims to contest all 300 seats, in third place, with support of just 6%, far behind the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, which leads with 30%.

Even the hardline Jamaat-e-Islami will do better than the NCP, coming in second with 26%, a December poll by a US-based non-profit, the International Republican Institute, showed.

“When they first launched, I saw hope in them, like everyone,” said Prapti Taposhi, 25, who helped lead the revolt and looked to the newcomers to break decades of rule by two dominant parties, only to say she was eventually disappointed.

“They say they are centrist, but their actions don’t match that,” added Ms. Taposhi, a feminist activist.

“They hesitate to take positions on important issues, whether it’s minority rights or women’s rights, and when they do, it comes too late.”

Another sign of growing disenchantment was the party’s failure to win a single seat in September’s student body election at Dhaka University, the epicenter of the uprising that forced Ms. Hasina to flee to New Delhi.

Ms. Hasina’s Awami League, which remains barred from contesting the election, has warned of unrest if the ban is not lifted, a threat that could imperil Bangladesh’s textile industry, the world’s second biggest garment exporter.

TALKS FOR POLITICAL ALLIANCE
Hampered by a skeletal structure, scarce funds, and a stance on key issues such as rights for women and minorities widely seen as unclear, the NCP is holding talks with other parties, including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, leaders say.

“If we stand independently, there is a chance we may not win even one seat,” a senior NCP leader told Reuters on condition of anonymity, acknowledging the risks.

On the other hand, say analysts, an alliance risks diluting the party’s “revolutionary” image.

“If they ally, the public will no longer see them as a distinct force outside the Awami League, BNP and Jamaat,” said Dhaka-based writer and political analyst Altaf Parvez.

While the uprising briefly united students across party lines to oust Ms. Hasina, most returned to their respective groups afterwards, leaving just a fraction to form the NCP, said political analysts and one NCP leader.

Now the party faces rivals with long-entrenched networks and well-oiled machinery stretching deep into villages.

FUNDRAISING IS A HURDLE
Money is another hurdle, Mr. Islam said, as members rely on salaries from full-time jobs, small donations and crowdfunding to keep campaigns afloat.

Some, like 28-year-old Hasnat Abdullah, have tried to drum up support by going door-to-door in villages.

“In my constituency, I tell people I am penniless,” he said, referring to an eastern region where he plans to contest. “I told them a leader’s main job is not to give voters money, but to ensure government funds are properly allocated and used.”

Graft accusations against some NCP leaders, which the party denies, saying it has a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, have further dented its image, however.

‘OFFERING SOMETHING NEW’
Yet some young people are still inclined to support the party, seeing it as striving for a more egalitarian culture in a political landscape shaped by money, muscle and dynastic power.

“They are young, they led the revolution, and I’m hopeful they can deliver change — as long as they don’t turn authoritarian themselves,” said one such backer, university student Manzila Rahman.

The NCP launched an unusual search for candidates in November, interviewing more than 1,000 applicants among ordinary citizens nationwide over two days.

Young party leaders moved from booth to booth interviewing hopefuls, including a rickshaw puller who took a day off work for the tryout, and a 23-year-old student partially blinded by police pellets during the protests.

“Some may think a rickshaw puller has nothing to offer in parliament,” said Mohammad Sujan Khan, 32. “Give me a chance and see what I do to change the country.”

The chance of such a future attracted Tasnim Jara, a doctor who left a successful career in Cambridge to join the NCP, seeking to help build it from the ground up.

“We want to open up politics, not keep it confined to powerful families, and give power back to ordinary people,” she said.

BNP and Jamaat leaders also see value in engaging with students.

“It’s the young people who are going to dominate politics in the future, so it will be good if we can accommodate them in parliament,” said BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

NCP leaders say they are thinking beyond the upcoming vote, aiming for institutional and structural reform in the long term.

“Win or lose, just by taking part in the election, we are offering something new,” said NCP’s Mr. Abdullah.— Reuters