BY ALEX ALAGON
BY ALEX ALAGON
MANILA – Ready for a mid-year escape? Trip.com’s highly anticipated 5.5 Mid-Year Sale is here to help travelers recharge and explore more for less, with irresistible deals designed to turn dream getaway into reality without breaking the bank.
From beach escapes in Boracay to city adventures in Hong Kong and Sydney, this limited-time sale offers something for every kind of traveller. It’s the perfect opportunity to lock in your next holiday at unbeatable prices.
Travel Deals Fiesta at Trip.com’s 5.5 Mid-Year Sale
From 5 to 10 May 2026, Trip.com invites travelers to dive into a curated lineup of exclusive travel deals. Expect daily flash sales, limited-time coupon drops, and incredible discounts across flights, hotels, attractions, and more.
Travellers can plan ahead from 3 to 4 May, before diving into the biggest deals during the main sale period from 5 to 10 May 2026.
Your next adventure is not just affordable – it’s closer than you think.
Highlights of the Trip.com’s PH 5.5 Mega Sale include:
| Grab Unmatched Flight Deals with ₱555 One-Way All-In Fares Explore exciting destinations with unbeatable flight deals starting at just ₱555 one-way. Routes include Manila to Boracay, Cebu, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Hanoi. Plus, don’t miss our exciting premium deal for a roundtrip ALL-IN fare from Manila to Sydney on Philippine Airlines for only ₱9,999. Limited-Time Flight “One Price” Drops on 5 MayMark your calendar for these fare drops:12AM: ₱555 MNL–Cebu / MNL–Boracay (Philippines AirAsia) 12NN: ₱555 MNL–Hong Kong / Boracay (Philippine Airlines) 4PM: ₱555 MNL–Cebu (Philippine Airlines) 5PM: ₱555 MNL–Taipei (Philippine Airlines) 9PM: ₱555 MNL–Hong Kong / Boracay (Philippine Airlines) | |
| Experience the Best Stays with Hotel Flash Sales from as Low as ₱555/NightDreaming of a top-rated hotel stay without breaking the bank? Don’t miss out on our hotel deals with flash sales dropping daily at 12AM, 12NN, 4PM, 5PM, and 9PM. Score deals as low as ₱555 per night on domestic hotels and ₱1,499 flash deals on high-star domestic properties. Mark your calendars for our special destination takeovers on 6 May for an all–Hong Kong hotel deals and flash sales and 7 May for all Boracay hotel deals and flash sales. Whether you’re coming back to wind down from chasing thrills or soaking in scenic sights by the beach, there’s a place to rest for every traveller. | |
| Attractions Deals: Double the Fun for LessMake your trip even more memorable by bringing your loved ones along and enjoy our Buy-1-Get-1 attractions and tours promotion, giving you twice the adventure at half the price. You can also score Hong Kong Disneyland tickets at 50% OFF during flash sale windows, offering sights and thrills that everyone can enjoy. | |
| Stack Your Savings: Up to ₱2,000 OFF on Flights and Hotel StaysComplete your trip with unforgettable experiences at unbeatable prices. For flights, with a minimum spend of ₱19,000, you can enjoy ₱1,000 OFF available at 12:30AM, 1PM, and 9PM. With a spend of ₱25,000, enjoy ₱2,000 OFF for a minimum of 2 passengers, available at 10AM. From 6 – 10 May, you can also enjoy 8% OFF flight purchases (capped at ₱1,500) at 12NN. For hotel stays, enjoy ₱1,000 OFF with a minimum spend of ₱10,000 available at 12:30AM, 1PM, and 9PM and ₱2,000 OFF with a minimum spend of ₱20,000 and a minimum of 2 room nights, available at 10AM. Beyond the main flash events, travellers can also enjoy up to 10% OFF on extra hotel vouchers (capped ₱1,500 OFF) for added flexibility on stays, and up to 8% OFF on extra flight vouchers (capped ₱1,500 OFF) to stretch their travel budget. Bundle & Save More: Get ₱3,000 OFFBundle your flight and hotel bookings and enjoy ₱3,000 OFF with a minimum spend of ₱37,500, starting from 5 May, 11AM. |
Plan your next getaway today
Mark your calendars today for Trip.com’s 5.5 sale!
With limited-time offers and high-demand deals dropping throughout the campaign, don’t miss the chance to secure the best travel prices for what could be your best getaway yet. Download Trip.com mobile app (available on the App Store or Google Play) or visit Trip.com to get the latest travel inspiration, recommendations, and deals.
THE MANAGEMENT team of Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW), led by chief operating officer Angelo David Berba, personally walked the waterlines of Barangay Hibao-an Sur and North, and Barangay Guzman-Jesena in Mandurriao District on April 28, 2026—validating water meters, spotting leaks, and listening to customer concerns face-to-face as part of the company’s Bantay Linya Program.
More than a field visit, the activity signaled a strong shift toward leadership immersion, where decision-makers step beyond boardrooms and directly into the communities they serve. By walking the same streets and speaking with customers in real time, the management team reinforced the company’s belief that reliable water service is built on visibility, accountability, and trust.
“Bantay Linya enables our management team to verify actual field data, align operational responses, and ensure that our network performance reflects the service standards we commit to our customers,” said Berba.
The initiative brought together managers from Engineering, Operations, Commercial, Human Resources, and the Office of the Chief Operating Officer—embodying MPIW’s “PagTaTAP”
culture, a Filipino-rooted value system anchored in unity, accountability, and purposeful service. Through this cross-functional approach, the company aims to strengthen collaboration and ensure that insights gathered on the ground translate into faster, smarter, and more responsive service improvements.
The Bantay Linya Program is a recurring bi-monthly initiative that will expand to 72 barangays across service areas. Insights from these field visits directly support major infrastructure improvements, including the HS Jaro Total Pipe Replacement Project, aimed at enhancing water pressure stability, reducing water losses, and strengthening the long-term reliability and resilience of the distribution network.
“Bantay Linya allows us to see the system through the eyes of our customers. Every conversation, every meter checked, and every leak identified strengthens our resolve to deliver safer, more reliable, and more resilient water services. This is how we turn feedback into action and action into lasting improvements,” emphasized Berba.
To further accelerate these efforts, MPIW allocated an ₱8-billion investment for the next three years dedicated to improving water supply reliability and significantly reducing non-revenue water (NRW). This capital program will fund pipeline replacements, network expansion, advanced leak detection, and system modernization projects to strengthen long-term water security for the growing Ilonggo community.
Beyond field engagement and infrastructure upgrades, Metro Pacific Iloilo Water emphasized the need for strong stakeholder support to help accelerate major water infrastructure investments and fast-track project implementation across its service areas.
MPIW currently serves 51,742 water service connections and continues to invest in programs that bring leadership closer to communities while advancing system upgrades across its growing network. Through sustained initiatives like Bantay Linya and major pipeline replacement projects, the company reinforces its commitment to building a stronger and more resilient water future for the Ilonggo community.
Before the break of dawn, Jose Cabanza Jr. of Barangay La Huerta in Parañaque wakes up to prepare his fishing equipment before heading to Manila Bay by sunrise to haul in his catch for the day. But for fishers like Jose, not every day is a good day. “Pabago-bago po [ang kita] katulad ngayon, medyo may sama ng tubig, namamatay ang ibang tahong (My earnings fluctuate. Recently, some mussels are dying due to poor water conditions),” he said.
Jose is just one of the target beneficiaries of a financial education program of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the City Government of Parañaque, and BDO Foundation. Advocated by the City Agricultural, Fisheries, and Aquatic Services Office of Parañaque, the initiative aims to equip fisherfolk with the knowledge and tools to better manage their finances amid the challenges faced by the sector.
“They need technical knowledge to improve their lives,” said Amie Hernandez, OIC of the Parañaque City Agri Office. “This partnership actually seals that intention. And someday, our people will be more than capable of managing their financial capacity or their resources.”
The financial education program was launched recently in a ceremonial event held at the Parañaque city hall. Present were leaders of fishing cooperatives in the city, key stakeholders from other sectors, and representatives from the BSP and BDO Foundation. Also in attendance were Parañaque City mayor Edwin Olivarez and District 1 representative Eric Olivarez.
In his message of support, BDO Foundation president Mario Deriquito shared “3 Ps” that illustrate what the financial education program is all about—partnership, practical knowledge, and preparedness. “Kung marunong po ang mga tao na mamahala sa kanilang kinikita, nagiging matatag po sila (If people know how to manage their finances, they become resilient),” Deriquito said.
The BSP also lauded the partnership as it supports its whole-of-society approach to financial education. “This collaboration shows what is possible when the public and private sectors, such as BDO Foundation, work hand-in-hand for the good of our communities,” said BSP Economic and Financial Learning Office director Marianne Santos. Other beneficiaries are also looking forward to the financial education program. “Nag-iipon po kasi talaga kami mag-asawa pero sabi ko parang mas maganda may matututunan pa. Gusto ko po matutunan yung proper na pag-iipon sa bangko (My husband and I are already saving, but we want to learn more. I want to understand the proper way of saving in a bank),” said Mary Jane Gutierrez, a vendor at Parañaque’s Bulungan Seafood Market.
MANILA, Philippines — Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) is adopting a more deliberate approach to capital deployment in 2026, recalibrating its capital expenditure program to approximately ₱50 billion to align investments with market conditions.
The revised capex level reflects a focus on priority developments and a more selective approach to new project launches, while ensuring the continued delivery of ongoing projects.
“The current environment requires a more deliberate approach to how we deploy capital and manage our pipeline,” said Anna Ma. Margarita Bautista-Dy. “We are actively reshaping our portfolio—scaling recurring income, delivering our existing projects, and positioning the business to emerge stronger and more balanced through the cycle.”
Ayala Land maintains a strong financial position, with a net gearing ratio of 0.81:1 and an interest coverage ratio of 4.6 times, providing flexibility to navigate evolving market conditions.
The company’s growing leasing and hospitality platform continues to support this discipline, generating steady cash flows that help fund capital expenditures while reducing reliance on incremental debt.
Leasing and hospitality revenues grew 9% year-on-year in the first quarter to ₱12.6 billion, reinforcing their role as a stabilizing component of the business.
“Our strategy for 2026 is clear: to expand our leasing and hospitality platform, maintain stability in property development, and preserve balance sheet strength,” Dy added.
In parallel, Ayala Land continues its active portfolio management strategy, reallocating capital toward higher-conviction and income-generating assets while maintaining a pipeline of projects with strong completion visibility.
The company remains in execution mode, with approximately 13,000 residential units scheduled for delivery this year, alongside continued expansion of its leasing portfolio.
MANILA — The United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) has yet to obtain final accreditation from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) for the September 14, 2026 first-ever Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, leaving its participation uncertain as the region’s electoral calendar advances.
As of late April to early May 2026, COMELEC has not released a formal decision on UBJP’s accreditation. The party has complied with procedural requirements, including the submission of its sworn list of authorized signatories and other documentary obligations, but approval remains pending.
Without accreditation, UBJP is not yet included in the official roster of political parties authorized to field candidates in the BARMM polls. Election rules require full approval before parties can formally participate in the parliamentary race.
The delay forms part of a broader re-accreditation process mandated for all political parties in the region ahead of the 2026 elections. COMELEC required both new and existing groups to reapply as part of efforts to standardize eligibility and ensure compliance with updated regulations.
The process has also been complicated by legal challenges involving some applicants, including petitions opposing the accreditation of certain groups, as well as reported internal issues within UBJP. These factors have contributed to the absence of final decisions on several applications.
COMELEC has yet to announce a complete and final list of accredited parties for the BARMM elections, and no definitive timeline has been provided for resolving pending applications.
The BARMM electoral calendar is already underway, beginning with April 7, the deadline for the filing of accreditation or registration of Regional Parliamentary Political Parties (RPPPs). This was followed by April 29 for party conventions, while the filing of certificates of candidacy will end on May 7, marking a critical phase in determining the official lineup of contenders.
Subsequent key dates include the start of the election period on July 16 and the official start of the campaign period on July 30. Campaigning will be prohibited on the eve of the polls, September 13, ahead of election day on September 14, 2026. Candidates are then required to file their Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) after the elections by October 14, also marking the end of the first-ever BARMM elections.
With the filing of certificates of candidacy approaching, the uncertainty surrounding party accreditation continues to affect preparations for the region’s first parliamentary elections under its new political system.
The BARMM elections, set for September 14, will mark the first parliamentary polls in the region, transitioning governance from the appointed Bangsamoro Transition Authority to a fully elected 80-member parliament.
The exercise is widely seen as a key milestone in the implementation of the 2014 peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
MULTI-PLATINUM, multi-Grammy Award-winning artist Jason Mraz is officially bringing his much-anticipated return to the Philippines as part of his “Asia Tour 2026.” The tour will kick off on October 27, 2026, in Manila at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, presented by PULP Live World.
“It is an honor to be returning to Asia,” said JASON. “I’m deeply grateful for this extraordinary opportunity to perform and reconnect with our fans after all these years.”
Marking his first run in seven years, the Manila stop promises an unforgettable evening of timeless hits and fan favorites from across JASON’s 20+ year career. Like his previous shows, this will feature a retrospective setlist spanning his extensive catalog, performed live with a full band. Renowned for his heartfelt songwriting and uplifting performances, he will deliver a set that celebrates his musical journey alongside Filipino fans who have long awaited his return.
On May 8, JASON will release Grandma’s Gospel Favorites, an album originally recorded for his grandmother almost two decades ago—a deeply personal project that reflects his roots, emotional depth, and timeless songwriting. Fans can look forward to his signature warmth and honesty, which have continued to resonate deeply with his Filipino listeners, further strengthening the connection between his music and the audiences who have made his songs part of their own stories.
So Manila, open up your plans, tickets will be available starting May 17, 2026, at 12 p.m. PHT, available via SM Tickets outlets nationwide and online at smtickets.com.
TICKET PRICES:
SVIP 1 — Php 12,500
SVIP 2 — Php 11,500
SVIP 3 — Php 10,500
VIP A — Php 8,500
VIP B — Php 7,500
BOX A — Php 6,000
BOX B — Php 4,000
BOX Regular — Php2,500
*Ticketing charges apply.
With Manila standing as a defining stop on this highly anticipated Asia return, JASON MRAZ: ASIA TOUR 2026 IN MANILA is set to be more than just a concert, it’s a full-circle moment. A shared experience where generations of Filipino fans come together to celebrate the music, journey, and the meaningful connection built through his music over the years.
For more details on ticket prices, seating plans, and further announcements, follow PULP Live World on social media or visit pulpliveworld.com.
MANILA, Philippines – Public trust in key government institutions linked to the flood control project (FCP) controversy remains markedly low, reflecting sustained public concern over transparency, accountability, and overall government credibility.
Legislative institutions continue to face weak public sentiment. The Senate recorded 25% approval and 14% trust, while the House of Representatives posted 23% approval and 13% trust. Distrust toward both bodies remains high, with around one in two voters expressing skepticism—indicating deeply entrenched public doubt.
Among implementing and oversight agencies, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) registered the lowest ratings, with 20% approval and 13% trust. Although distrust slightly declined from the previous quarter, it remains elevated at 60%, signaling continued public concern over infrastructure management and project execution.
Fiscal agencies also show subdued confidence. The Department of Finance (DOF) recorded 28% approval and 19% trust, while the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) posted 25% approval and 17% trust. In both cases, about four in ten voters expressed distrust, highlighting concerns over budget allocation and financial stewardship.
Accountability institutions similarly received modest ratings. The Commission on Audit (COA) posted 34% approval and 25% trust, with 30% distrust. The Department of Justice (DOJ) recorded 33% approval and 24% trust, alongside 39% distrust. The Office of the Ombudsman registered 28% approval and 19% trust, with comparable levels of distrust (38%), raising questions about the perceived effectiveness of anti-corruption and enforcement mechanisms.
Also, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) registered 30% approval and 21% trust, while 44% of voters expressed distrust.
Overall, the results point to a broad pattern of low trust across institutions involved in legislation, budgeting, implementation, and oversight—underscoring the need for stronger transparency measures and credible accountability efforts to restore public confidence.
MANILA, Philippines – April 2026 – A new chapter in the musical legacy of Attack on Titan begins with Attack on Titan: Symphony from Paradis, the first-ever officially licensed orchestral concert. Filipino fans of the acclaimed anime will get to experience this full-scale concert experience on August 28-29, 2027, at The Theatre at Solaire, presented by Film Concerts PH.
Featuring brand-new symphonic arrangements curated by original composers Hiroyuki Sawano and Kohta Yamamoto, the concert is performed live by a combined ensemble of more than 100 musicians and singers from the Filharmonika Orchestra and the Philippine Madrigal Singers, accompanied by HD large-screen projections from the TV series.
The music of Attack on Titan was always meant to feel as immense as the world it inhabits. These symphonic arrangements unleash the full dramatic impact of the series’ iconic themes: tension, urgency, melancholy, and catharsis.
Building on the global success of Attack on Titan: Beyond the Walls – World Tour, which was centered on a rock-orchestra format and faithful reproduction of the original score, this new concert presents the music through an orchestra-first, concert hall-focused approach.
Attack on Titan: Symphony from Paradis will make its world premiere with two performances at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London on October 17, 2026, followed by its Asian premiere at AsiaWorld-Arena in Hong Kong on November 1, 2026, and its American premiere at New York’s Carnegie Hall on January 10, 2027. The production will then embark on a global tour spanning multiple continents.
Composer Hiroyuki Sawano said, “I am delighted that the music of “Attack on Titan” will be performed in full orchestral arrangements for the first time, in various concert halls around the world. I am also very happy that Nobuko Toda — a composer and orchestrator I have long hoped to collaborate with — will be handling the orchestral arrangements of my compositions for this occasion. I believe this will be a concert experience unique to this tour, allowing audiences to feel a new kind of expression and grandeur that only a full orchestra can deliver — something distinct from the original band-and-orchestra format. I myself am already filled with excitement, and I sincerely hope that as many people as possible will enjoy it.”
Film Concerts PH community members get to enjoy early access to tickets. Sign up now at https://www.filmconcerts.ph/community to receive the pre-sale link on May 1, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The pre-sale runs until May 3, 2026, while supplies last.
Public ticket sales will start on May 26, 2026, at noon, via Ticketworld.com.ph and participating TicketWorld outlets nationwide.
