BY ALEX ALAGON
Cebu Pacific is enhancing travel options for passengers traveling during the holiday season with additional flight frequencies on major domestic routes.
Starting October 26, 2025, flights between Clark and El Nido will increase to 18x weekly, while flights between Clark and Coron (Busuanga) will boost to 17x weekly, further strengthening Clark’s connectivity to Palawan.
CEB will also operate more flights between Cebu and Calbayog in the same period, providing flexibility for travelers to and from the Eastern Visayas.
From Manila, CEB will also increase frequencies to Butuan, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, and Zamboanga.
| Route | From | To |
| Clark – El Nido – Clark | 14x weekly | 18x weekly |
| Clark – Coron (Busuanga) – Clark | 7x weekly | 17x weekly |
| Cebu – Calbayog – Cebu | 7x weekly | 11x weekly |
| Manila – Butuan – Manila | 35x weekly | 39x weekly |
| Manila – Cagayan De Oro – Manila | 56x weekly | 63x weekly |
| Manila – Cebu – Manila | 94x weekly | 103x weekly |
| Manila – Dumaguete – Manila | 35x weekly | 38x weekly |
| Manila – General Santos – Manila | 28x weekly | 31x weekly |
| Manila – Iloilo – Manila | 54x weekly | 57x weekly |
| Manila – Pagadian – Manila | 14x weekly | 21x weekly |
| Manila – Puerto Princesa – Manila | 43x weekly | 46x weekly |
| Manila – Zamboanga – Manila | 32x weekly | 39x weekly |
“With the peak holiday season fast approaching, we want to ensure that our passengers have more opportunities to spend time with their loved ones and enjoy their well-deserved breaks. By adding more flights on key domestic routes, we aim to make it easier for every Juan to travel to their chosen destinations,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer.
Passengers may book their flights to these domestic destinations through CEB’s multiple payment options, including credit and debit cards, as well as e-wallets.
CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spanning Asia, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Aboitiz Renewables Inc., the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation, released ₱1.8 million in royalty shares to 13 Indigenous Peoples (IP) organizations in Davao del Sur for the fourth quarter of 2024.
The royalties — channeled through subsidiaries Hedcor Sibulan, Inc. and Hedcor Tudaya, Inc., which collectively operate four run-of-river hydro facilities in the province — will support tree planting initiatives, community nurseries, and forest ranger programs in the nearby Mount Apo.
Of the amount, the Mount Apo Bagobo-Tagabawa Ancestral Domain Inc. received over half a million pesos, while IP groups Sibulan’s Cluster 1 and 2 were given over P400,000 and P500,000, respectively. Close to P300,000 were also distributed to other clusters and tribal councils.
The royalties are granted under Section 60 of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples’ (NCIP) Administrative Order No. 03, Series of 2012, which entitles host Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) to a share in the benefits from resource use within their ancestral domains. The NCIP facilitated the validation and release process to ensure compliance with the applicable rules, existing law, and proper distribution to the rightful beneficiaries.
“This arrangement between NCIP, Aboitiz Renewables, and our Indigenous Peoples groups is built on respect, collaboration, and shared aspirations,” said Atty. Geroncio R. Aguio, CESO III, Director of NCIP Region XI. “Together, we are enabling our IP communities to make long-term investments in their future while preserving the cultural and natural heritage that defines them.”
“Mt. Apo is not just our ancestral land — it is the source of our water and life,” added Bae Dalia Agtag Pogoy, Tribal Chieftain of Bagobo Tagabawa Cluster 2 in Sibulan. “We invest in protecting it for the next generation.”
Previous royalty shares supported the development of two ecotourism projects — Mt. Buribid and Palaka Hot Springs — which are set to launch this year, generating income for Sibulan Clusters 1 and 2.
Royalty shares are also being used to enable IP youth to pursue higher studies. Since 2012, eight scholars have successfully completed college, most of whom took Education and became teachers for their tribes. Fourteen more scholars are currently pursuing degrees.
“By working hand-in-hand with NCIP and our IP partners, we’re helping build resilient, self-sustaining communities grounded in cultural heritage and empowered by clean energy,” said Noreen Vicencio, Aboitiz Renewables First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations.
In 2024, the NCIP recognized Hedcor as a “Champion for Indigenous Peoples” for its “unwavering dedication to the indigenous peoples of the Davao Region.”
“Their consistent efforts in uplifting the lives of IP communities, while respecting and preserving their cultural heritage, truly set a standard for corporate responsibility,” Aguio said.
MANILA — Alliance Global Group Inc. (AGI), the conglomerate led by tycoon Dr. Andrew L. Tan, recorded a strong performance in the first half of 2025, driven largely by the increasing contribution from its real estate business and tourism-related segments, on the back of resilient domestic spending. Net income grew by 39% year-on-year (YoY) to P19.2-billion on group revenues of P100.9-billion, inclusive of one-time gains from the deconsolidation of its quick service restaurants business, Golden Arches Development Corp (GADC).
Earlier this year, GADC – a company where AGI retains a 49% stake – was deconsolidated in its financial statements and is now treated as an associate. The move resulted in one-time gains of P3.4-billion. Excluding such one-offs and netting out all GADC items in the financials to allow for comparability, AGI should show a normalized net income of P15.1-billion, reflecting a growth of 19% YoY. Normalized consolidated revenues should amount to P87.1-billion, a modest increase of 3% YoY, while attributable net profit should hit P10.1-billion, rising sharply by 23% YoY.
In the second quarter of 2025, on a normalized basis, consolidated revenue stood at P45.3-billion while its attributable profit grew by 25% YoY to P5.3-billion.
“AGI delivered strong results in the first half of the year, benefitting from a buoyant domestic economy despite ongoing global uncertainty. During this period, our Group took advantage of pockets of opportunities in the market to boost our residential and retail sales, as well as our office take-up. Our tourism and leisure segments also enjoyed increased activities and occupancy, tapping into the increasing demand for staycations and MICE events. Even our spirits segment sustained its recovery in sales, a testament to the strength of its brands that have been expanding their presence in the local and international markets,” says Kevin L. Tan, President and CEO, AGI.
“Our strong performance was also accompanied by ongoing cost-efficiency measures, which we implemented across all our business segments. By managing our costs, we hope to enhance our operating leverage to ensure a more robust growth in profit as the economy further recovers,” reveals Tan.
Megaworld, the country’s premier township developer, continued to deliver the biggest share of AGI’s performance in the first half of the year. The company registered a 10% increase in revenue to P43.1-billion from P39.1-billion a year ago, driven by the robust showing across all its business segments. Real estate sales grew by 9% YoY to P27.1-billion amid a sustained rise in residential demand and steady project completion. Sales reservation during the semester reached P54.7-billion, while project launches stood at P10.4-billion. Megaworld Premier Offices clocked in a sharp 17% YoY jump in office rental income to P7.4-billion, the best performance in the industry, helped by new leases, capacity additions, and a stable occupancy rate of 87%. Megaworld Lifestyle Malls forked in P3.3-billion to group revenue, growing by another 10% YoY, supported by improving foot traffic, attractive new tenants, and a high occupancy rate of 93%. Meanwhile, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, also contributed P2.8-billion in revenue, reflecting a 19% YoY improvement, helped by the continued robust tourism activity throughout the country. Megaworld’s attributable net income rose by 25% to P10.7-billion from P8.6-billion the year before.
Emperador, the biggest global brandy producer and among the fastest-growing Scotch whisky manufacturers, turned in a vigorous 14% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) growth in revenue in the second quarter of 2025 to P15.0-billion. This was driven by the continued improvement in domestic sales for its brandy products, mainly Fundador, while its overseas sales expanded to include Africa, Canada, and other countries in Europe. Likewise, whisky sales grew strongly in QoQ, particularly in the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Africa. The stronger topline performance helped keep its gross and net profit margins steady compared to the previous quarter. Meanwhile, attributable profit grew by 13% QoQ to P2.1-billion, despite increases in input costs and marketing expenses.
The second quarter recovery also helped lift Emperador’s performance in the first half of 2025, bringing consolidated revenue to P28.2-billion and net income to owners to P3.9-billion.
Travellers International, the Group’s leisure and tourism arm, recorded a significant 21% QoQ improvement in EBITDA to P2.5-billion in the second quarter of 2025. Gross revenues stood at P9.2-billion, as gross gaming revenues reached P7.5-billion, on the back of the steady growth in mass business. Meanwhile, non-gaming revenues amounted to P1.7-billion amid stable hotel occupancy of 90% as the Newport World Resorts complex continued to enjoy healthy foot traffic. Also, during the period, Travellers significantly reduced its overall costs and expenses, beefing up its attributable income which grew by more than double QoQ to P217-million. Travellers intends to continue with its cost management efforts to allow the company to further enhance its operating efficiency moving forward.
In the first half, EBITDA of Travellers grew by 11% YoY to P4.5-billion. Attributable income stood at P315-million on gross revenues of P18.9-billion.
The Andrew Tan-led conglomerate has varied interests spanning real estate developments through property giant Megaworld Corporation; spirits manufacturing through Emperador Inc.; leisure, entertainment and hospitality through Travellers International Hotel Group, Inc.; and, quick service restaurants through its interest in Golden Arches Development Corporation (GADC), popularly known as McDonald’s Philippines.
In an exciting move that underscores its rapid growth and diversification, Discovery Credit Solutions Corp., one of the fastest-growing lending companies in the Philippines, is rebranding to Discovery Capital Finance Corp. (DCFC), following the recent approval of its financing license by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This transition marks a significant new chapter for the company, which was founded in 2019 and operates from its corporate office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Under the leadership of Mr. Diosdado C. Salang, Jr., a seasoned veteran in the financial sector, DCFC has quickly positioned itself as a key player in the financial services industry. Mr. Salang’s extensive experience in financing prior to founding the company has been instrumental in driving its growth & success.
Since its inception, the company has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its reach with four branches strategically located in Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Pampanga. This rapid expansion is a testament to the strong demand for its services and the company’s commitment of meeting the financial needs of clients across the Philippines.
Looking ahead, DCFC has ambitious plans. The company is on track to open six (6) new satellite offices across the country by 2026. This expansion will not only enhance accessibility for clients but also solidify the company’s presence throughout the archipelago. In addition to its current offerings, DCFC is set to further diversify its product line. Plans are in place to introduce new financial products, including real estate and auto loans, catering to a broader range of client needs & preferences.
The rebranding signifies more than just a name change; it represents the commitment of the company to provide innovative financial solutions and exceptional service to its clients. As DCFC continues to grow, it shall remain dedicated in helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals with confidence & ease. With a focus on expansion and a keen eye on new opportunities, Discovery Capital Finance Corp. is poised for continued success in the dynamic financial landscape of the Philippines.
BY ALEX ALAGON
THE RAINY season may bring a welcome break from the scorching summer, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. From worsening traffic to flu season to a higher incidence of dengue.
Peak season for dengue infection is reported to be from June to November each year. That’s because dengue-carrying mosquitoes, like Aedes aegypti, tend to have higher populations during the rainy season. However, due to the potential for year-round transmission, dengue has become an ongoing threat, even outside of the peak months.
The Department of Health recently reported that in January and February 2025, dengue infection rose as much as 40% compared to the same period last year. The dengue scare is very real, and because it can be transmitted, it is a public health concern across the country.
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SM Lanang ushers in a new era of visual storytelling as it launches its giant digital canvas “Visions of Paradise” to revolutionize how people engage with advertising and entertainment in Mindanao.
Standing 17-meter high and four-meter wide, Mindanao’s first and largest indoor LED screen is perched at SM Lanang’s scenic elevator overlooking the mall atrium. This cutting-edge, massive digital landmark was unveiled on August 12, 2025 for mall-goers to enjoy.
With its semi-transparent display, the giant LED screen takes the mall’s scenic elevator to the next level by breaking the monotony of everyday scenes with visuals of Davao City’s paradise-like destinations. This LED screen also allows the creative utilization of the scenic elevator façade without obstructing the view from within.
More than just a digital billboard, Visions of Paradise is designed to elevate the digital storytelling landscape in Mindanao where local stories, bold ideas, and local artistry are reflected in ultra-crisp perfection.
The giant digital canvas brings the ultimate experience from world-famous iconic screens to the local scene, offering a cinematic backdrop for shoppers and tourists alike.
This latest development demonstrates SM’s leadership in innovation that shapes mall entertainment and customer engagement, adding excitement and fun to the customer experience.
The next time you visit SM Lanang for another shopping trip, look for that “big screen energy” and snap some photos for your socials.
Among Davao City’s most impactful recent developments is the now fully operational Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), the largest private bulk water project in the Philippines, delivering clean and reliable water to communities across the city.
The project, a collaboration between Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) and the Davao City Water District (DCWD), now delivers over 300 million liters per day (MLD) of treated surface water sourced from the Tamugan River, benefiting more than one million Dabawenyos citywide including water-stressed communities in Indangan, Cabantian, and Panacan.
“This is a game-changer, especially for the residents in District 2, who for years experienced water challenges,” said Ronnie D. Lim, General Manager of Apo Agua. “By harnessing surface water through sustainable infrastructure, we are solving water issues at the root and delivering supply to DCWD that is safe and reliable.”
Previously, Davao relied heavily on groundwater extracted from wells and aquifers. Recognizing the risk of overextraction and its long-term impact on supply, DCWD began exploring the use of surface water to diversify and protect the city’s sources.
The existing groundwater system struggled to keep pace with rapid urbanization, often leading to rotational supply, rationing, and low water pressure in elevated or densely populated areas. Now through conjunctive use, or the strategic integration of both surface water and groundwater systems, the city now benefits from a more resilient and balanced water supply system.
“Surface water now serves as the city’s primary water source, allowing DCWD to rest or reallocate its groundwater. This not only helps preserve underground aquifers but also strengthens the city’s long-term water security,” Lim added.
The improvements are evident in the numbers. In just two years, DCWD has tripled its new water service connections: from 8,600 in 2022 to over 21,000 today– that’s 14,000 more households with clean, reliable water right from the tap.
Back in 2022, areas like Cabantian and Panacan faced frequent water interruptions. In Cabantian, only 90% of residents had 24/7 service, while Panacan was at 67%, forcing households to adjust routines around unpredictable supply and store water in containers.
Today, 95% of DCWD customers enjoy continuous water service, with satisfaction levels at an all-time high of 99.6%, and 99.9% in previously underserved areas like Cabantian and Panacan.
The result is immediately felt by residents. Flora Mae Casa of Emily Homes in Cabantian, recalls the daily struggles of fetching water through rotation water truck deliveries.
“Unahan pa sa pila para makakuha ng water and we need to purchase a lot of gallons para pang-ipon namin sa tubig,” Flora shared. (We had to rush to fall in line just to fetch water. We also had to buy many gallons so we could store enough water.)
District 2’s rapid population growth could strain the city’s groundwater-based systems, potentially leading to more frequent water rationing and truck deliveries. Some residents have even had to wake up before dawn just to catch a short trickle of water.
“Mumata mi ug kadlawon mga alas kwatro sa buntag para maabtan namo ang agas, kay pag maabtan na ug mga 10 am, putol-putol na pud ang tubig ana,” said Gerry Dagatan of Upper Panacan. (We used to wake up at 4 a.m. just to get water. Because by 10 a.m., it would already be limited.)
Today, Gerry shares, that’s no longer the case. “Pero napansin na namo run ang dako gyud nga kabag-uhan. Wala na mi ga gamit ug water drums kay naa namay agas ang gripo 24/7.” (We’ve seen a huge change now. No more water drums, there’s 24/7 water from the tap.)
Beyond addressing water concerns, the project’s conjunctive use of surface and ground water also helps ease pressure on underground aquifers, enhancing Davao’s ability to support economic growth and real estate development in rapidly expanding barangays.
Dominion Holdings, Inc. (DHI, formerly BDO Leasing and Finance, Inc.) reported a net income of ₱71.6 million in the first half of 2025, compared to ₱134.5 million during the same period in 2024.
The decline was mainly due to the reduction in investable funds following the declaration of ₱3.2 billion in cash dividends in May 2024, as well as a lower interest rate environment.
The company continues to reinvest earnings from its investments, resulting in growth in total assets, which increased to ₱3.4 billion as of June 2025 from ₱3.3 billion in June 2024.
Stockholders’ equity also rose to ₱3.4 billion, up from ₱3.3 billion, reflecting the reinvestment of earnings back into the company. Total liabilities remained minimal at ₱10.8 million.
Dominion Holdings Inc.’s primary purpose is to hold/own real estate properties, securities/shares of stocks, and other assets of other companies, and engage in investment and business activities involving these assets.
On July 18, 2022, the SEC approved the change in corporate name of BDO Leasing and Finance Inc. to “Dominion Holdings, Inc.”, the shift in primary and secondary purposes from a leasing and financing company to that of a holding company, and the corresponding amendments to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and By-laws.
As an investment holding company, Dominion Holdings has more flexibility in pursuing business opportunities that can enhance shareholder value.
