BY ALEX ALAGON
NOT FOR the faint-hearted and most definitely not for the easily-impressed is this brand of politics that our self-important cast of lawmakers are presently playing. If one has watched the news recently, a lawmaker and senator at that, had, on record, magnificently declared for all to hear, that the popular voice of the people (or majority) is above the law. To make matters worse, he has even, again on record, convinced the head of the Department of Justice to agree with him.
Not only does this tell us where they stand at the moment, but it has also given us the clearest hint yet of how low our political standing has sunk with the present administration.
It’s already a stale argument, some people still cling to the belief that it’s our fault, the electorate, because we put these people there…that this is nothing but a rational case of ‘we are what we eat’.
If not for anything else, this standpoint is arrogant, as it continues to insinuate we Filipinos are poorly–informed voters who always seem to choose the wrong candidates into office. There, too, are other critics and scholars who claim that the brevity of our collective memory dooms our choices eventually, insisting we easily forget the crimes against us as a people.
These countless know-it-alls, safely entrenched in some foreign land, pound that in our thick skulls election after election. Why do we always fall for the same trick every time, forgetting all that’s been done to us? They ask, as though that were the most important question.
Perhaps the most insulting comment directly hits at those less fortunate among us who, with lesser education, are always glad to get a thousand as grease money from dirty politicians taking advantage of their poverty during election campaigns.
Be that as it may, we only have to ask where all that is coming out of their mouths is sourced from.
As for those who are still firmly set in their belief that we deserve those who we put to represent us, a word of caution. It is so very convenient to only see our side of the fence, but if it were the other way around and their choices were wrong, I wonder if they’d even be bold enough to call out their errors.
As for our distinguished and honorable solons, one telling us that the law is subservient to people’s clamor, and another, a senate president at that, belittling provisions in the Philippine Constitution as amendable if it doesn’t suit the popular vote, where do you get these preposterous ideas from? Ironically, you are not even men of the law, but put in their position via a populist, hero-worship thinking. How does one expect a noontime comedian slash mediocre actor and a sensationalist media personality to fare well, at least decently, in matters of law? That must be on the minds of ordinary people right now.
PLDT Home and Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) mark a milestone this year as they celebrate five years of empowering Filipina mompreneurs – women who lead with heart, hustle, and ingenuity. From humble beginnings during the pandemic, the movement has grown into a thriving community of over 215,000 members, with more than 25,000 mompreneurs trained, equipped, and inspired to build businesses that uplift families and transform communities.
This year, MMPH brings back Gawad Madiskarte, the annual awards ceremony that honors exceptional Filipina mompreneurs who embody leadership, compassion, and innovation. More than just awards, Gawad Madiskarte has become a powerful platform for uplifting women whose creativity and determination transform not only their families, but also their communities—and the nation.
“You work wonders in three different worlds: the world of home, your own personal growth, and the world of business. At PLDT, we believe in the power of community, and our Madiskarte Moms exemplify this through their dedication and innovation,” said Menardo “Butch” Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Technology Head.
You Are Seen. You Are Heard. You Are Valued.
Every mompreneur in MMPH carries within her dreams, sacrifices, and an unshakable hope—not just for herself, but for those she holds dear. Gawad Madiskarte is more than a set of awards. It is a celebration of courage, purpose, and love. It is a way of honoring the mom who quietly keeps going at dawn, who figures out shipping logistics in her lunch break, who turns passion into profit—even when the odds seem against her.
What Gawad Madiskarte Honors
Beyond building businesses, mompreneurs are reshaping the meaning of success—proving it is not only about profit, but also about purpose and positive change. At the 4th Gawad Madiskarte, inspiring women from government, business, and entrepreneurship will once again come together to honor these trailblazers.
Winners will be selected under two divisions:
- Start-Up Mompreneurs – for businesses running at least 6 months
- Scale-Up Mompreneurs – for businesses operating 13 months or more and DTI/BIR-registered
Three major awards reflect MMPH’s core values:
- Diskarteng Angat – for growth and innovation
- Diskarteng May Puso – for social good and community impact
- Diskarteng Eco-Friendly – for sustainability and environment stewardship
Special awards include Diskarteng Digital (for creative digital use), the Mompreneurs’ Choice Award (voted by the MMPH community), and the Madiskarte Icon (for an exemplary leader and inspiration).
Stories of Triumph
Last year’s winner of Diskarteng Angat – Scale-Up Division Award Heidie Ricca del Rosario, founder of HTP Clothing, turned a humble preloved clothing business into a thriving local fashion brand that empowers community seamstresses.
“Gawad Madiskarte allows us mompreneurs to be seen, heard, and celebrated. It fills our hearts to know the awards recognize that behind every successful business is a mom who made it happen,” Del Rosario said. (proposed quote)
How to Apply
Mompreneurs with inspiring stories and impactful businesses are invited to apply. Winners will receive cash prizes, capital support, and national recognition to help propel their businesses forward.
Apply now through the Madiskarte Moms PH Facebook Group and the official MMPH website and learn more about the 4th Gawad Madiskarte, its categories, and past awardees.
Application deadline: November 15, 2025
- DPWH chief fumes over ‘ghost’ flood control project in Davao Occidental
PUBLIC Works Secretary Vince Dizon will issue a show-cause order on Friday, Sept. 26, on all district engineering offices of Davao Occidental over the alleged flood control project in Jose Abad Santos that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) team visited on Thursday, Sept. 25.
Dizon was joined by ICI special adviser Mayor Benjamin Magalong in inspecting the P96.5 million infrastructure project in Jose Abad Santos by contractor St. Timothy Construction Corp.
The project, started in 2022, was “found to be completely unfinished, despite the contractor having been fully paid by the government.”
St. Timothy Construction is owned by controversial couple Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya and Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya.
Dizon was reportedly furious during an inspection of the project near the Culaman Bridge in Davao Occidental. He even scolded District Engineer Rodrigo Larete on-site.
“We receive reports from the communities. We have to fix it so that the contractor has to fix it. Has to finish it. Bayad sya eh,” he said during a press briefing held at the DPWH Engineering Office in Panacan on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025.
The infrastructure project, which began and was funded during the previous administration, appeared to have barely started.
For his part, Larete admitted that the winning bidder, St. Timothy Construction Company, was already marked as fully paid by the agency.
Local residents confirmed to investigators that virtually no construction work had been completed. The unfinished facility was designed to mitigate flooding and protect a nearby community and school from seasonal inundation.
“Walang nangyari dun last 2022. Nagkaroon lang ng construction last month,” Dizon said. “Karong klaro na it’s a ghost project.”
He also noted the conflicting accounts between the district engineer and barangay officials and residents of the area. The village official also told the ICI that he could provide evidence to help them in their investigation.
“Nakikita namin mga kaso unang una three cases graft and corrupt practices, Republic Act 309, tapos meron tayong malversation of funds under Article 217. Meron din tayong violation on procurement, aside from the administrative violation of Republic Act 6713,” he said.
Magalong also did not discount the involvement of politicians in the ghost projects, considering that “sa mga nakikita namin sa ibang projects lagi nalang merong politicians.”
Photo courtesy of ICI
A new chapter for Davao unfolds as SM Supermalls welcomes a bold new era with evolving finds just for you.
SM City Davao, the first and largest SM mall in Mindanao, opens its Expansion Building bringing fresh urban experiences for every Davaoeño. From Insta-worthy dining scenes to stylish hangouts, every spot is designed to be pure feed goals.
With over 120,000 sqm of added space, this is more than an expansion—it’s an evolving destination made for shopping, style, and leisure to come together in ways you’ve never seen before. All to show that here at SM Supermalls, we truly got it all for you.
Dining Hotspots Ready to Serve You
Hungry? You’re in for a culinary treat as we bring you a lineup of handpicked restaurants serving everything from casual fine dining to comforting Filipino classics and bold Singaporean flavors.
- Brique – Bringing their distinctly Cebuano flavors in Davao, Brique— located at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion—combines modern cuisine and local classics.
- Nanyang – Get the best of what Singapore has to offer. Serving some of Southeast Asia’s finest delicacies, Nanyang at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion, delivers hearty dishes that cater to the Filipino palate. From aromatic Laksa to savory Curry Chicken Rice, the possibilities are endless.
The Joy of Fluffiness
Making its first mark in Davao, Puffy’s is bringing its signature charm to the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Known for its cloud-like soufflé pancakes, this sweet spot is the newest must-try in SM Supermall’s irresistibly crave-worthy lineup. Whether you go for Original, Crème Brûlée, or Tiramisu, every bite is delightfully light and perfectly Instagrammable!
Your Unique Finds
Looking to add a little more everyday flair? From customizing your Aquaflask tumbler to finally grabbing that self-help book you’ve been eyeing—or even spotting that one item you didn’t know you needed—discover a specially chosen mix of finds to make your every visit more exciting.
- Aquaflask Designs – Find their newest designs at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion and drink in style! Now fully customizable, these vacuum-insulated bottles let you enjoy your cold or hot drinks anywhere without breaking the bank.
- Gashapon Bandai – Collect high-quality gacha toys, keychains, and accessories while having a bit of thrill—or dismay—with the first Gashapon Bandai in Davao at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion. From Dragon Ball and Gundam to Demon Slayer and Pokémon, just pop a coin into these vending machines and score a surprise collectible.
- Fully Booked – Find your next great read as you experience a warm, cozy ambiance here at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Featuring a wide selection of books across various genres—including hard-to-find titles—Fully Booked is a true bibliophile haven.
- Flying Tiger – In search of unique knick-knacks and quirky finds? For the first time in Davao, Flying Tiger at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion is the novelty store for you. Liven up your living space and personalize your room with their playful crafts, trinkets, and ornaments.
Level Up Your Style
Who says activewear has to be drab? Anta at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion lets you turn the gym into your personal runway. Featuring a premium sports line of ready-to-wear apparel, trainers, and bags, it’s everything you need to break a sweat—in style!
From crave-worthy food hubs and fashion finds to accessories and quirky trinkets, every corner is made to make your feed more aesthetic. No matter how you spend your time, enjoy curated experiences not just to enjoy, but to share, only here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.
Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!
THE JOB market is becoming more competitive than ever for job seekers, with Jobstreet by SEEK recording a 179% year-on-year increase in job applications per job post on their platform. Which is why standing out from the get-go is a crucial step, with a strong resume and well-prepared interview playing a significant role in hireability.
According to the leading online job market, 75% of resumes are rejected before they reach the hiring manager, and should an applicant be considered for the next step, hirers make use of the first 90 seconds during interviews to decide whether a candidate will be hired or not.
Turning these challenges into opportunities, Jobstreet by SEEK, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), hosted the “Ready, Set, Hired!” Education and Career Guidance Workshop at the recent WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025.
Attended by over a hundred candidates, the workshop provided a platform for Jobstreet by SEEK to engage directly with aspiring candidates, aimed at promoting skills excellence in the region and boosting youth employability.
During the workshop, participants gained knowledge on how to make their resumes stand out as Jobstreet by SEEK gave essential tips on how to write it effectively, what details to highlight, and how to use strong action words to better communicate their strengths and potential. They also learned how to improve their interview skills, from doing company research to delivering confident responses and applying effective non-verbal communication
The workshop also provided how to dress for success, and hands-on activities where participants engaged in mock interviews and received advice from resume clinic experts and a style guide consultant, all led by SEEK volunteers.
“At Jobstreet by SEEK, we have seen how technical and vocational skills are becoming increasingly valuable in today’s digital economy. Through initiatives like ‘Ready, Set, Hired,’ we hope to empower more young professionals with the skills and confidence they need to succeed, helping them secure work opportunities,” said Dannah Majarocon, Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines managing director.
Through initiatives like this, Jobstreet by SEEK continues to help close regional talent gaps, support TESDA’s mission to strengthen workforce readiness, and connect emerging professionals with career opportunities.
MANILA, Philippines – Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, took home Gold in Cross-Generational Workforce Management and Leadership Development, and Silver in Excellence in Best HR Team (Multinational Companies) – a testament to its commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.
The HR Excellence Awards is widely recognized for innovative and impactful HR practices across industries. Competing against 71 leading organizations, FedEx was also named a finalist in seven categories, reinforcing its strong people-service-profit philosophy that fuels sustainable business growth.
The Gold Award for Cross-Generational Workforce Management recognizes the company’s success in fostering collaboration across age groups through mentorship, internal mobility, and leadership training. These initiatives create an inclusive organization.
Additionally, the commitment to inclusion was reflected in FedEx surpassing the government’s 0.5% target for People with disabilities representation, achieving 53% female representation in management, and driving a 17% rise in Inclusion over the last year. Through initiatives like the Disability Inclusion Playbook and Sensitivity Training, the company strengthened engagement and ensured all employees feel valued, empowered, and included.
FedEx commitment to empowering people is further demonstrated by the Gold Award for Leadership Development, which celebrates the company’s efforts to cultivate leadership capabilities at all levels. Through programs like Advance into Management, immersive cross-functional learning, and a strong mentoring culture, employees gain the skills, agility, and confidence to drive operational excellence and deliver exceptional customer experiences. As a result, FedEx achieved a 95% employee engagement score and a 91% inclusion score.
“This recognition reaffirms that our people are our greatest asset and the driving force behind our long-term success. It inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in people, development, and organizational culture. These awards are a powerful motivator to continue building a workplace where our people can thrive and grow,” said Maribeth Espinosa, managing director, FedEx Philippines. “By continuing to invest in leadership, inclusion, and workforce agility, we’re not only building a stronger FedEx today, we’re also ensuring our talented team has future-ready skills needed to create what’s next in our business and our customers.”
Complementing these achievements, the Silver Award for Best HR Team (Multinational Company) highlights the Human Resources team’s ability to weave leadership behaviors, promote inclusion into daily operations, and ensure opportunities for all, while fostering both individual growth and long-term organizational performance.
As the ACC marks its 21st year, it continues to go beyond connectivity—bringing hope, opportunity, and transformation to communities. In partnership with the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), PLDT Global Corporation (PLDT Global), and Samsung Philippines, ACC 2025 reaffirms its commitment to uplift lives in its host province Cebu through meaningful initiatives.
Guided by the theme “Shaping the Future. Beyond Connectivity”, ACC 2025’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program focuses on two pillars of community empowerment: education and livelihood.
In Lapu-Lapu City, Lo-ok National High School received a smart TV and tablets from Samsung Philippines, tools that will open doors to digital learning and enrich the educational journey of Oponganon students. These resources are more than just devices; they are bridges to knowledge, creativity, and a brighter future.
Meanwhile, cacao farmers from the Cebu Diversified Advocacy Cooperative (CEDACO) took part in a specialized training program supported by PSF. They also received a PLDT and Smart FarmTech training kit, equipping them with digital tools and practical knowledge to help elevate their livelihood and strengthen their role in the cacao industry.
“These two efforts—learning assistance for our students and livelihood training for our farmers—are like twin pillars of progress. One secures the future; the other sustains the present. Together, they embody our Foundation’s principle to Equip, Train, and Connect—equipping our youth with knowledge, training our farmers with the right skills, and connecting both with opportunities for growth,” said PSF President and CEO Esther O. Santos.
Through these initiatives, ACC 2025 continues to demonstrate that connectivity is not just about technology; it’s about people. It’s about creating pathways for learning, growth, and resilience. Held annually, ACC is a premier telco and ICT event that brings together global telco operators and tech providers drive innovation, forge strategic partnerships, and shape the future of connectivity.
THE ADMINISTRATIVE charge for apprehended illegal water connections is increased from P5,000 to P30,000, Davao City Water District announced.
The increase is effective Oct. 1, 2025, per Board Resolution No. 25-272 dated September 3, 2025.
The DCWD, in a press release, explained that the stricter penalty is needed to deter prevalent illegal connections.
Illegal connections, it added, cause low water pressure to no water in affected areas and pose risks to water safety.
“Illegal connections include unauthorized tapping into DCWD pipelines, tampering with water meters, and reconnecting service lines without approval,” it said.
Unauthorized tapping endangers public health as it increases the risk of contamination in the water pipelines.
Illegal water connections are punishable under Republic Act 8041 or the National Water Crisis Act of 1995.
If found guilty, individuals may be imprisoned for six months to two years and will be fined P30,000.00 administrative charge.
DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon stressed the importance of strictly adhering to the legal rules following the “bend the law” statement of Senator Erwin Tulfo during the Senate hearing into flood control projects.
“The law is harsh, but it is the law,” Tuazon said. “We need to follow our laws first and foremost, because the law is meant to maintain order and peace. If we don’t have laws to follow and just want to please everyone, we will have chaos.”
Tuazon warned of the negative consequences of non-compliance: “If we don’t follow and respect our laws, chaos will happen in our country. This will exacerbate issues like the corruption that we are facing now.”
Also, retired Court of Appeals associate justice Loida Kahulugan criticized Tulfo’s statement, which was publicly supported by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.
During the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on flood control projects on Tuesday, Sept. 23, Tulfo stated, “Sometimes we have to bend the law to be able to please the people. Am I right, Secretary Remulla?” to which Secretary Remulla replied, “Yes, sir.”
Kahulugan described the exchange as misleading and dangerous for public consumption. “In law, we have what is called Dura lex sed lex — the law is harsh, but it is the law,” she said during the Davao Peace and Security press briefing on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
Justice Kahulugan emphasized that the law exists to maintain peace and order, and suggesting it can be “bent” is incorrect.
“For ordinary people hearing that and coming from him or from somebody whom we have placed in that hallowed hall… they might think it’s true, but that statement is wrong,” she added. “If Secretary Remulla agreed to that statement, well, that is his opinion, but I believe that is not the law.”
Tulfo clarifies remarks
Senator Tulfo later clarified his remarks in an interview with Karen Davila on Wednesday, explaining that his comment was not a call to violate laws but to allow exceptions, specifically concerning the restitution of alleged ill-gotten wealth.
“I did not say we have to break the law, literally… What I meant was, in every rule there’s an exception, that’s bending the law,” the senator said. “It was just born out of anger… what I meant was bend the law for humanitarian reasons.”
Tulfo explained he was suggesting that individuals voluntarily surrender money or property without needing to go through a lengthy court process. “I was saying, perhaps we can set aside the law for a moment because the law requires due process for restitution. But I was saying, maybe we don’t have to… Maybe they can just voluntarily surrender it, and we won’t go through the court.”
Justice Kahulugan, however, maintained that legal restitution can only occur after due process.
“Restitution comes only after a decision is made,” she explained. “A complaint must be filed, it has to be tried, evidence must be scrutinized by the court… then if the decision says that the person is guilty and he has to return whatever has been taken, that is what we call restitution.”
She agreed that if the accused parties voluntarily surrender “illegally taken” items, it could be accepted. However, she warned against demanding restitution without proof.
“We cannot demand until such time that it is proven that it was illegally taken, and after the court makes a decision,” she said.
When asked if the law can be bent to ease requirements for state witnesses to facilitate restitution, Kahulugan was firm. “That is dangerous,” she replied. “There are requirements that have to be complied with before one can be a state witness… You have to pass those requirements before you can be a state witness.”
Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron
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