BY ALEX ALAGON
Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV) reported its first-half 2025 results, reflecting a softer start to the year but showing a strong recovery in the second quarter. The quarter-on-quarter rebound, driven by improved performances in key business units, underscores the resilience of AEV’s diversified portfolio and its ability to adapt swiftly to changing market conditions.
In its role as the portfolio manager of the Aboitiz Group, AEV remains focused on driving growth, operational efficiency, and strategic investments that contribute to national economic progress as the Philippines’ first techglomerate.
“Our results this quarter demonstrate the strength of a well-diversified portfolio,” said Sabin M. Aboitiz, AEV President and CEO. “We remain committed to managing our businesses with discipline, resilience, and innovation — not only to deliver value to our shareholders, but also to help drive the Philippine economy forward.”
AboitizPower maintained its role as a reliable contributor, ensuring all plants remained fully operational to deliver a dependable electricity supply that supports the economy.
Aboitiz Foods delivered solid results, driven by improved margins and performance across its operations. While the Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Inc. (CCEAP) also made notable gains, further boosting Aboitportfolio diversity.
UnionBank sustained its momentum through strong lending growth, a healthier funding mix, and continued leadership in digital banking, further strengthening its market position.
Aboitiz InfraCapital continued to expand its infrastructure footprint and enhance efficiencies in its airport, water, and economic estate operations, laying the foundation for future growth.
Aboitiz Land maintained its commitment to delivering quality and affordable residential projects for its target communities, while Republic Cement continued to work with stakeholders to strengthen the domestic cement industry.
“While we faced headwinds early in the year, our businesses are well-positioned to capture opportunities and sustain growth,” Aboitiz added. “The discipline, innovation, and resilience of our teams across the group are what enable us to deliver real impact — for our stakeholders and the country.”
AEV will continue leveraging the synergies of its portfolio to drive inclusive growth, aligning its strategies with its mission to uplift lives and advance business and communities across the Philippines.
MANILA – Bodegas Fundador, the oldest and most storied winery in Spain, has received its latest distinction with the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice®️ 2025 Award.
This recognition is based solely on real reviews and ratings extracted from the top 10% of Tripadvisor travelers worldwide.
“Being recognized once again with the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award is a true honor — not just for Bodegas Fundador, but for the passionate team behind every tour, every tasting, and every detail. This award speaks volumes about the authentic experiences we strive to offer and the deep connection our visitors feel with our history, our brandies, and our hospitality. We are proud to represent the heart of Jerez to the world,” says Glenn Manlapaz, CEO, Emperador Inc.
Founded in 1730, Bodegas Fundador stands as Spain’s oldest and largest producer of brandy and sherry, with nearly three centuries of craftsmanship rooted in Jerez. The winery oversees every stage of production—from its vineyards and distillery to ageing cellars, blending and bottling facilities, laboratories, and a distribution center. Its portfolio includes iconic brands such as Fundador — the first Spanish brandy introduced in 1874 — alongside Harveys, Terry Centenario, and Tres Cepas.
Since two centuries ago, Bodegas Fundador has received dignitaries, such as Spanish royal families and Heads of State, including the late former President Corazon Aquino.
This recognition from Tripadvisor reaffirms Bodegas Fundador’s standing as the top-rated experience in the ‘Things to Do in Jerez’ category, bolstered by an outpouring of five-star reviews on Tripadvisor and Google. More significantly, it places the historic winery among the most celebrated destinations worldwide, which is a testament to its commitment to excellence, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality.
“The positive reviews from top Tripadvisor travelers are a source of motivation for all of us at Bodegas Fundador, and we work every day to ensure a truly enriching experience for everyone who chooses us,” shares Eugenia Herrera, head of enotourism, Bodegas Fundador.
More importantly, the recognition is also envisioned to inspire travelers exploring Jerez to uncover the timeless charm of Bodegas Fundador—a cultural treasure nestled in the heart of Spain’s storied sherry triangle. Home to century-old barrels and the Garden of La Puerta de Rota, which is officially recognized as a Site of Cultural Interest, the historic winery offers immersive tours steeped in heritage. Guests can also visit the Fundador Museum, which commemorates 150 years of the first Spanish brandy, and dine at the Casa Fundador Restaurant, where they can sample the region’s finest brandies, wines, and culinary pairings.
“Enotourism is a 360-experience where visitors can feel and understand the brandy journey from vineyards to cellars. A trip to our brandy museum immerses visitors in its history, allowing them to match food with brandy and its mixers, which will convert them to become brandy ambassadors,” explains Angel Piña, chief marketing officer and chief commercial officer, Grupo Emperador Spain.
Bodegas Fundador is 100% owned by Emperador Inc., which is publicly traded on both the Philippine Stock and the Singapore Stock Exchanges. Since 2002, the Travelers’ Choice® Awards from Tripadvisor highlight the best experiences in the world based solely on the real ratings of millions of travelers. Opinions are collected over a 12-month period, and only those activities that maintain outstanding consistency in their quality and attention to visitors are awarded.
PHILIPPINES – Canon announced the PIXMA TR160 wireless portable printer for business professionals who require reliable and secure printing while on the move. Featuring smartphone connectivity, a USB-rechargeable battery pack, and storage for printable user-created document templates, the efficient PIXMA TR160 delivers consistent high-quality document output without the need for a laptop.
Compact Design and Powerful Features
The PIXMA TR160’s portable design makes it the perfect travel companion, fitting effortlessly into most briefcases or carry-on bags. The printer’s 1.44-inch OLED display conserves energy and provides a high-visibility interface for adjusting print settings, checking battery or ink levels, and monitoring Wi-Fi signal strength – all without a laptop connection. The printer also has a security lock slot to prevent theft in public areas or shared workspaces.
The PIXMA TR160 is a miniature workhorse that churns out monochrome text documents in approximately 9.0 images per minute (ipm)[1], and approximately 5.5 ipm1 in color. It also supports A4 borderless printing on glossy papers, making it ideal for producing polished cover sheets for key client proposals.
[1] Document print speeds are the average of ESAT (Word, Excel, PDF) in Office Category Test for the default simplex mode, ISO/IEC 24734. Print speed may vary depending on system configuration, interface, software, document complexity, print mode, page coverage, type of paper used etc.for On-the-Go Business Professionals
Print Versatility with Document Templates Storage
With the PIXMA TR160, users can store up to five customized print templates in the printer’s memory. This feature allows corporate professionals to quickly reprint forms and datasheets repeatedly without connecting to a laptop or mobile device. The PIXMA TR160 also utilizes a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System, consisting of pigment and dye ink to produce razor-sharp text and vivid, photo-quality images.
Swift Charging to Maximise Productivity
The printer’s rechargeable battery pack can be charged via an AC adapter or a USB-C cable, offering users versatile charging options. When the battery is depleted, a quick approximate 10-minute charge via AC power is enough to produce up to 36 pages[1] and ensure seamless productivity.
Enhanced Security and Seamless Wireless Connectivity
To provide better protection against unauthorized access, the PIXMA TR160 uses 2.4GHz and 5GHz with TLS1.3 security levels, preventing data snooping. Additionally, the printer’s wireless direct capabilities enable easy printing without a router or network infrastructure. With the Canon PRINT app for iOS and Android, users can print directly from their mobile devices, while checking the printer status and its ink levels. The PIXMA TR160 also supports direct printing from online platforms[2] via the cloud-integrated service, catering to the diverse needs of mobile professionals.
Pricing[3] and Availability
| Model Number | Retail Price | Availability |
| PIXMA TR160 | 16,995 | June 2025 |
| PIXMA TR160 with battery | 24,595 | June 2025 |
Product Specifications
| Product Dimensions (W x D x H) | Approx. 322 x 185 x 66 mm Approx. 322 x 210 x 66 mm (with battery) |
| Document ISO Print Speed | Approx. 9.0 / 5.5 ipm (mono/color)1 |
| Photo Print Speed (4R, borderless) | Approx. 53 sec[1] |
| Key Features | 5-Colour Hybrid Ink System (Pigment & Dye Ink)1.44″ OLED displaySupports wireless and mobile printingDual-band Wi-FiOne-touch direct wireless connectionBorderless photo printing up to A4 sizeLoad up to 50 sheets of paper |
MANILA, Philippines — HUAWEI, in collaboration with Vogue Philippines, staged a dazzling celebration of fashion-next, future-next innovation, artistry, and elegance for the official launch of the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series in the Philippines. Held at the BGC Arts Center, Taguig City, last August 7, the grand event was made more remarkable by the HUAWEI XMAGE Photography Exhibition, which showcased top-tier photos captured using HUAWEI smartphones.
The HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra and HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro are now available for pre-order. Prices start at PHP 59,999. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Pura 80 is expected to be available soon in the Philippines.
An evening of elegance and innovation
The event brought together some of the country’s top celebrities, photographers, and tastemakers under one roof, dressed in fashion-forward looks that echoed the dazzling design of the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series. Among the star-studded guests who graced the event was Filipino award-winning actor Jericho Rosales. He raved about how the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series fits seamlessly into his life, whether as a fashionable companion for glamorous events or a photography device to capture nightscapes while he’s out riding his motorcycle. He claimed that the phone’s revolutionary mobile imaging technology, “fashion-next” desig,n and AI-enabled performance match his life, from big events to quiet moments with friends. “It’s more than just a phone — it’s a companion that lets me capture my world, day or night, in the best way possible,” said the actor.
United by a shared commitment to pushing creative boundaries and redefining visual storytelling, HUAWEI collaborated with Vogue Philippines for the event. As a global authority in style and culture, Vogue brought its distinct editorial perspective to the occasion, with Suki Salvador, president of Mega Global Licensing, taking center stage at the event to share their insights on the significance of phone photography in capturing moments before they slip away. Highlighting how HUAWEI’s superior mobile imaging technology empowers creatives, Suki Salvador emphasized how the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series enables “sharp shooters” like Borgy Angeles and Gab Villareal to capture everything from sun-kissed portraits to the vibrant Poblacion nightlife with exceptional detail and color accuracy in every frame.
“Regardless of the medium, day or night, it’s the (wandering) eye that is truly capable of discovering stories worth telling,” said Suki Salvador. “With the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series, the gap that once divided professionals from casual photographers begins to coalesce, letting anyone and everyone tell their narratives the way they always envisioned.”
HUAWEI Pura 80 Series: precision in every frame
During the event, the spotlight shone brightly on the HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra and HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro, both embodying the legacy of the HUAWEI Pura Series. Both devices are now available for pre-order in the Philippines. The HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra leads the charge, debuting the industry’s first Switchable Dual Telephoto Camera, which combines a 3.7x mid-telephoto and 9.4x ultra-telephoto lens in one unit that’s backed by a 1/1.28-inch Ultra Large Sensor. This groundbreaking setup enables the largest telephoto light intake to date, delivering cinematic portraits and sharp, detailed close-ups.
A micron-level motor powers the seamless switch between focal lengths with over 140 precision components driving a compact system that increases the light path versus traditional telephoto modules. The HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra also features a revolutionary 1-inch Ultra Lighting HDR Camera, which has a greater full-well capacity and delivers unmatched light and shadow capture. Real-time TCH-HDR technology enables 16EV dynamic range for flawless exposure in bright daylight or dim nightscapes. The 1-inch Ultra Lighting HDR Camera works in tandem with the AI Cinematic Engine to deliver stunningly lifelike video with rich detail and natural contrast.
On the other hand, the HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro elevates close-range mobile photography with its Ultra Lighting Macro Telephoto Camera, which offers a Super Close Focus of up to 5cm. This allows users to capture intricate textures and fine details with stunning clarity. Its massive F2.1 aperture enhances light intake to enable vibrant, true-to-life imagery even in challenging low-light conditions. The HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro also inherits the 1-inch Ultra Lighting Camera, which boasts the industry’s largest main camera light intake. Along with the Ultra Chroma Camera, this delivers rich, ultra-clear nightscape shots that faithfully reproduce colors and atmosphere in low-light environments. This gives users vivid, lifelike results that preserve the mood and magic of every moment.
AROUND 2,000 runners took to the streets of Davao Global Township on Sunday for the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) Anniversary fun run, a significant increase from last year’s turnout.
EastMinCom chief Lt. Gen. Rex Luis Bergante led the event, joined by chief of Unified Command Staff Col. Jorry Baclor, Major Ramel Vilocura, ACUCS for RRA – assistant chief of Unified Command Staff for Reservist and Retiree Affairs, other officers, military personnel, civilian stakeholders, and the media.
In his message, Bergante highlighted the event’s growth. “Last year, we had about 1,000 runners; this year we have 2,000,” he noted. “Of the 2,000, 1,000 were our civilian friends who ran the 10-kilometer route, while 1,000 military personnel ran the 3-kilometer run”
He then challenged the military participants to aim higher for the following year.
“So next year, military personnel will run 10 kilometers. Can we do that?” he asked, to which the troops enthusiastically responded, “Yes, Sir!”
Beyond the physical activity, Lt. Gen. Bergante underscored the event’s broader purpose.
“This is just an awareness that we include in this event, that the West Philippine Sea is ours, so let’s not forget that,” he said.
He concluded his remarks by thanking and congratulating the organizers, facilitators, and all the runners for their participation.
“Again, see you next year. Thank you very much,” he added.
Photo courtesy of EastMinCom
TWENTY-FOUR remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) voluntarily surrendered to the 60th Infantry Battalion (60IB) of the 1001st Infantry Brigade.
BGen Felix Ronnie B. Babac lauded the 60th Infantry Battalion for securing the surrender of 24 on-the-run CTG members once operating in the brigade’s Area of Responsibility (AOR).
From Aug. 2 to 4, 2025, seven regular members and 17 Milisyang Bayan (MB) of the Dismantled Sub-Regional Committee 4, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC), including remnants of guerrilla fronts 33 and 34, surrendered to 60IB at its headquarters in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, under LTC Jovily Carmel Cabading, commanding officer.
The surrenderees turned over 21 assorted high-powered and low-powered firearms, which included M16 rifles, a Carbine rifle, M1 Garand rifles, a homemade KG9, and one Cal. 45 pistol (with defaced serial number).
The surrendered low-powered firearms included seven homemade shotguns, two Armscor shotguns, one homemade Ingram pistol (defaced serial), two homemade .357 revolvers, a homemade KG9, and a Garand rifle (with serial).
This breakthrough was the result of intensified intelligence operations by 60IB, Kalinaw SEMR, Military Intelligence Group (MIG) 11, ISAFP, and the exploitation of documents from a June 19, 2025, encounter in Barangay Sayon, Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur.
This effort was bolstered by the strategic deployment of a forward observer detachment in La Paz, Agusan del Sur, which pressured the remaining DSRC4 remnants to surface.
Following their surrender, the individuals underwent immediate custodial debriefings and medical checkups to ensure their well-being.
They are now being processed for assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and the Firearms Remuneration Program, aimed to provide support and livelihood opportunities to help them reintegrate into civilian life and encourage peaceful surrender.
Babac praised 60IB’s decisive action, noting its role in sustaining the gains of an insurgency-free AOR.
“As we work to preserve our hard-earned peace, I call on every soldier to give their best in achieving our ardent desire for lasting peace,” he said.
Addressing the remaining CTG members still in hiding, BGen Babac added, “To those who have yet to return, lay down your arms and reunite with your families. Beyond the conflict lies a better life of hope, peace, and opportunity. We stand ready to welcome you back.”
Photos courtesy of 1001st Infantry Brigade
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) seized P1.6 million worth of drugs and arrested 117 individuals for various offenses from Aug. 3 to 9.
Acting city director Col Mannan Muarip said the DCPO conducted 36 anti-drug operations leading to the arrest of 42 suspects and the confiscation of 243.0082 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of over P1.65 million, and 51 grams of marijuana valued at P6,120.
In its drive against illegal gambling, the DCPO performed 15 operations, arrested 15 individuals, confiscated P6,010 in bet money, and filed 15 cases.
Meanwhile, the DCPO carried out 53 operations, successfully arresting 53 individuals, including 18 of the city’s most wanted persons.
Additionally, the police conducted 11 operations targeting loose firearms, leading to the arrest of five suspects, the seizure of five firearms, the surrender of two firearms, and the turnover of three others for safekeeping. A total of five cases were filed in relation to these operations.
“These achievements reflect not only the dedication of the men and women of DCPO but also the strong partnership with the community, barangay officials, and the local government unit,” Muarip stated. “Together, we continue to build a safer and more peaceful Davao City.”
Photo courtesy of DCPO
by Nova Mae Francas
THE CITY Transport and Traffic Management Office announced on Monday the road closures for the celebration of the Kadayawan Festival 2025.
There will be no entry for vehicular traffic at San Pedro Square on August 16, 4 p.m. onwards, for the Konsierto Kadayawan.
The CTTMO traffic plan stated that no entry is allowed to San Pedro St. coming from: Cor. San Pedro St. to C.M. Recto Ave; Cor. Rizal St. to Bolton St., and Cor. Rizal St. to C.Bangoy St.
For the Pamulak ug Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan on Aug. 17, 6 a.m. onwards, the full road closure will start on Aug. 12 along San Pedro St. for hauling of materials and props for the event.
Meanwhile, a partial road closure will start on August 15 along Roxas Ave. (Marco Polo Hotel) and Bonifacio St. cor. Pelayo St. for the installation of the stage and production tent.
The Showdown/Judging areas for the Indak and Pamulak will be at Roxas Ave. (Marco Polo), Bonifacio St. Cor. Pelayo St., and San Pedro Square.
The parade route will be from Roxas Avenue, left turn to C.M. Recto Ave., right turn to Bonifacio St., left turn to Pelayo St., left turn to San Pedro St.
Contingent trucks / vehicles will be parked along Quimpo Blvd. during the activity.
Exit parade will be from San Pedro St., right turn to C.M. Recto St. toward Bonifacio Rotunda, right turn to Quimpo Boulevard to Felcris Centrale.
On the program proper of the Indak sa Kadayawan Showdown in San Pedro St. on August 17, 3 p.m. onwards, there will be no entry going to San Pedro St. coming from: Cor. San Pedro St. to C.M. Recto Ave.; Cor. Rizal St. to Bolton St.; and Cor. Rizal St. to C.Bangoy St.
There will be no left turn going to San Pedro St. coming from: Cor. Pichon St to Pelayo St., and Cor. Pichon St. – Iñigo St.
CTTMO announced a no right turn for those going to San Pedro St. coming from Cor. Rizal St. to Pelayo St. and Cor. Rizal St. to Iñigo St.
The grand showdown holding area will be the whole of San Pedro St. and stop and go on all perpendicular streets (crooked road, Iñigo St., Pelayo St., and Ilustre St.
- Rigo on Vice Ganda: Lawmakers will not be distracted by cheap insults
ACTING Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte Il debunked the circulating social media post about an alleged resolution declaring Jose Marie Viceral aka Vice Ganda persona non grata, saying that lawmakers are busy with more important matters than catering to “attention-seeking antics from performers desperate for relevance.”
“Contrary to what this viral document suggests, the Council’s time and energy are devoted to crafting policies and programs that improve the lives of Dabawenyos—enhancing infrastructure, ensuring public safety, creating livelihood opportunities, and strengthening social services,” Duterte said.
The acting vice mayor added the city will not be distracted by “cheap insults and distasteful jokes made for clout.”
“Public figures like Vice Ganda, who use their platform to mock rather than uplift, reveal more about their own character than about the people they ridicule,” Rigo stressed.
He suggested that if Vice Ganda wishes to be remembered for more than empty laughs and headline-grabbing jabs, the latter should show some discipline and respect to Davao’s leaders and citizens.
“The dignity and pride of Dabawenyos are not for sale and certainly not for comedy fodder,” Rigo said.
“Until then, Davao City will continue moving forward— with or without the approval of those who mistake insult for entertainment,” he added.
At a concert in the Smart Araneta Coliseum on August 8 and 9, 2025, the Showtime host mocked former President Rodrigo Duterte through a skit about the “jetski,” a previous campaign promise of the mayor-elect to ride a jetski to the West Philippine Sea.
A play on the TikTok trend about an advertisement, Vice Ganda said: “Nothing beats a Jetski holiday, ride now from Manila to the West Philippine Sea via Jetski. Get unlimited water bombing from Chinese vessels and a free trip to the Hague by the ICC. Promo applies to DDS only. Pinklawans and BBMs are prohibited.”
Vice Ganda also mimicked Duterte by saying: “Huwag ‘nyo kong subukan mga p*tang ina nyo.”
The bogus resolution that went viral on Monday also called for a boycott of Vice Ganda’s endorsements, including McDonald’s, CDO Young Fork Tocino, Belo Essentials, and Game Zone.
