LPGA NW Arkansas Championship Canceled After Severe Rainfall Forces Early Termination

The LPGA announced on Sunday that the final two rounds of the NW Arkansas Championship at Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers, Arkansas, have been canceled due to persistent heavy rain making the course unplayable. Only the scores from the tournament's opening round on Friday will be recognized, and no ranking points will be awarded for the event. According to the LPGA, a total of 3.25 inches of rain fell overnight from Saturday to Sunday, after stormy conditions restricted play to just 45 minutes on Saturday. Following a consultation with the tour meteorologist and the course superintendent, the decision was made to cancel the remainder of the 54-hole tournament as forecasts indicated unfavorable weather conditions through Tuesday. Japan's Minami Katsu and American Sarah Schmelzel led the field after the initial round, finishing at eight-under par 63. Close behind at 64 were South Korea's Lee So-mi, Ireland's Leona Maguire, Americans Alison Lee and Lilia Vu, as well as Japan's Nasa Hataoka. The LPGA stated, "As a result, the decision has been made to cancel the remainder of the tournament." The organizers also confirmed that sponsors will provide players with compensation exceeding the minimum for cancellations, ensuring all participants receive payment irrespective of their standings after the first round. Looking ahead, the LPGA Tour is set to resume in two weeks with an event in Hawaii, followed by a series of tournaments across Asia, including stops in Shanghai, South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan.

MediaTek Launches Dimensity 9500: A New Era in Smartphone Performance and AI Innovation

MediaTek has officially introduced its latest flagship smartphone chipset, the Dimensity 9500, engineered to deliver significant advancements in artificial intelligence, gaming, imaging, and power efficiency. The Dimensity 9500 boasts a third-generation All Big Core CPU with a 4.21GHz ultra core, paired with three premium cores and four performance cores, supported by four-lane UFS 4.1 storage technology. This design achieves a 29 percent increase in single-core performance and a 16 percent boost in multi-core efficiency compared to its predecessor, while reducing ultra-core power consumption by 55 percent under peak loads. This translates to extended battery life, faster device responsiveness, and sustained high performance. JC Hsu, Corporate Senior Vice President at MediaTek, commented, \"As AI becomes integral to everyday devices, consumers demand smarter, faster, and more intuitive experiences without compromising battery longevity. The Dimensity 9500 delivers on these fronts, combining groundbreaking AI capabilities with superior efficiency to provide premium experiences globally.\" Enhancements in AI include the ninth-generation NPU 990, equipped with the Generative AI Engine 2.0. This chipset doubles AI computing power, introduces BitNet 1-bit model processing that lowers power usage by 25 percent, and supports always-on small AI models that consume 40 percent less energy. The result is twice the speed for large language model generation with 3 billion parameters, extended context processing up to 128,000 tokens, and pioneering on-device 4K ultra-high-resolution AI image generation. In the gaming realm, the Arm G1-Ultra GPU delivers a 33 percent uplift in gaming performance and 42 percent improved power efficiency. Features such as real-time ray tracing, 120 frames per second interpolation, and AAA-level rendering enhance mobile gaming experiences. MediaTek’s close collaboration with major studios ensures full compatibility with advanced Unreal Engine 5.5 and 5.6 capabilities like Nanite and MegaLights, enabling hyper-realistic graphics and immersive gameplay. Photography and videography also see significant upgrades via the Imagiq 1190 ISP, which supports up to 200MP camera sensors, RAW-domain preprocessing, AI-powered autofocus, and cinematic 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, setting new standards in mobile imaging. Connectivity improvements are driven by MediaTek’s AI-enabled communication suite, which reduces 5G power consumption by 10 percent and Wi-Fi energy usage by 20 percent. The platform incorporates 5CC carrier aggregation for enhanced bandwidth by 15 percent, adaptive MiraVision displays, and ultra-low-latency multi-network intelligence for seamless connectivity. As the leading global supplier of smartphone SoCs, MediaTek continues to spearhead innovation with the Dimensity 9500. Flagship smartphones featuring this chipset are expected to debut in the fourth quarter of 2025. For more information on MediaTek’s Dimensity chipsets, visit https://i.mediatek.com/mediatek-5g.

Filipina Tennis Pro Alex Eala Tops Seeds Ahead of Jingshan Tennis Open 2025

Filipina tennis athlete Alex Eala is set to commence her Asian tournament circuit at the Jingshan Tennis Open 2025, a notable WTA 125 event hosted in China.\n\nStarting her campaign on Tuesday, Eala enters the tournament as the number one seed, underscoring her impressive progress and ascending rank within the WTA standings.\n\nThe Jingshan Open features a competitive lineup, with seeded players such as Talia Gibson from Australia, Lulu Sun representing New Zealand, Britain’s Jodie Burrage, China’s Xinyu Gao, Japan’s Mai Hontama and Kyoka Okamura, and Netherlands’ Arianne Hartono also in contention.\n\nEala’s opening match is scheduled for September 23, 2025, at 12:10 PM local time. She will face Belarusian competitor Aliona Falei in the Round of 32, marking the first step in her quest for the title.\n\nThe WTA 125 tournaments, including the Jingshan Open and the Guadalajara 125, offer emerging talents and established players opportunities to advance their careers and improve their world rankings. Positioned below higher-tier competitions like WTA 250, 500, and 1000 events, the WTA 125 serves as a critical platform before reaching the prestigious Grand Slam tournaments, where champions earn up to 2,000 ranking points.\n\nEala’s participation and top seeding signify her growing presence on the international tennis stage as she aims to capitalize on this chance to gain valuable points and experience.

DTI Introduces Affordable Fee Structure for E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark to Support SMEs

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has rolled out a new fee scheme for the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark that favors micro and small enterprises by providing considerable cost reductions for registration. Under the updated policy, micro enterprises registered with the DTI can obtain the Trustmark free of charge, incurring only nominal expenses related to processing: - ₱0 – Registration fee (free) - ₱100 – Website administration fee - ₱30 – Documentary stamp This totals to just ₱130. Small businesses, defined as entities with total assets ranging from over ₱3 million to ₱15 million, are eligible for a 50 percent discount on the application fee. Their fees are structured as follows: - ₱500 – Discounted application fee - ₱100 – Website administration fee - ₱30 – Documentary stamp The total cost for small enterprises stands at ₱630. Meanwhile, medium enterprises, with assets exceeding ₱15 million, are required to pay the full fee: - ₱1,000 – Application fee - ₱100 – Website administration fee - ₱30 – Documentary stamp Bringing the total to ₱1,130. The DTI reiterated that securing the Trustmark is mandatory for all online sellers, e-commerce platforms, and digital retailers as stipulated under Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 25-12. To ensure broader compliance, the agency has extended the registration deadline to December 31, 2025. This initiative aims to foster trust and credibility in the Philippine digital marketplace by easing the financial burden on smaller enterprises while maintaining regulatory standards for all participants.

Independent Commission Condemns Alleged Document Tampering by DPWH in Flood Control Probe

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has strongly condemned reports that personnel from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have allegedly tampered with and destroyed official records related to questionable flood control projects.\n\nIn an official statement, ICI Chairman retired Justice Andres Reyes emphasized that such misconduct represents not only a serious obstruction of justice but also a violation of the public’s right to transparency and accountability.\n\n"The deliberate concealment or alteration of records undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in government agencies entrusted with protecting public resources," Reyes said.\n\nThe commission highlighted that records concerning public infrastructure projects are considered public property, and any attempts to destroy, falsify, or hide these documents are serious offenses subject to administrative and criminal penalties.\n\nReyes urged DPWH officials and staff to fully cooperate in safeguarding the integrity of all documents and evidence under their control. He affirmed the ICI’s commitment to thoroughly investigate irregularities in flood control projects and ensure that those responsible face appropriate accountability.\n\nWhile the commission did not disclose specifics on the extent of the alleged document destruction, it described the issue as “widespread.”\n\nIn response, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed receiving reports of suspected document tampering at the Baguio City District Engineering Office.\n\n"Upon learning of these reports, we acted swiftly," Dizon stated. "I have already issued formal charges against Rene Zarate, the district engineer of Baguio City, along with a 90-day preventive suspension order."\n\nDizon further directed all DPWH offices—from central and regional to district levels—to preserve and submit all documents related to flood control and other infrastructure projects from the past decade to the ICI. He warned that denying compliance would result in similar disciplinary measures as those issued against Zarate.\n\nThis development underscores escalating efforts to enforce transparency and accountability within Philippine public infrastructure agencies amid ongoing investigations into flood control projects.

Consumer Group Calls for Transparency Amid Davao Light’s Expansion and Rate Hike

A newly formed consumer advocacy group in Davao City is calling on Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light) to uphold transparency as the utility begins its acquisition of the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative’s (Nordeco) service areas. The appeal emerges following an unprecedented increase of P1.5625 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in monthly electricity bills — a sharp rise well beyond the usual centavo adjustments familiar to consumers. This surge marks the second-largest rate increase since May 2024, which recorded a P1.6254 per kWh hike attributed to El Niño effects and fluctuations in prices from the Philippine Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM). In a statement earlier this week, the Mindanao Alliance for Progress (MAP) emphasized that Davao residents deserve full disclosure and reassurances that the substantial funds required to rehabilitate Nordeco’s aging and unreliable power infrastructure will not be unfairly charged to existing Davao City customers. "We recognize that Davao Light’s expansion into Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro aims to provide lower rates and improved service in those provinces," said MAP coordinator Mayet Valdez. "However, it is imperative that such investments are not financed by the current consumers of Davao Light." Valdez further stressed MAP’s commitment to protecting consumers’ interests, advocating for transparency, and ensuring essential services like electricity and infrastructure are delivered without exploitation. ### Rate Hike Impact on Consumers The P1.5625 per kWh increase translates to an additional P312.50 monthly cost for an average household consuming 200 kWh. The steeper-than-usual increase caught many in the city off guard. Davao Light disclosed that its overall residential rate jumped from P9.0782/kWh in August to P10.6407/kWh between September 11 and October 10, 2025. Historically, fluctuations in monthly electricity bills have been minimal and measured in centavos. The utility attributed the hike to increased generation costs in the WESM, caused by power plant outages that constrained supply. However, residents suspect that expenses related to Davao Light’s franchise expansion may already be reflected in their bills. ### Consumer Concerns Over Cost Allocation Residents interviewed across Davao City shared concerns about the rate increase and its implications. A teacher in Bajada remarked, \"I understand occasional increases due to fuel costs or supply issues, but these were usually just centavos. Now the increase is in pesos. I worry that Davao City consumers will end up shouldering the expenses of Nordeco.\" A fish vendor in Bankerohan expressed difficulty in managing household finances with the sudden hike, saying, \"I don’t know why the increase is so high. If costs from Nordeco are included in our bills, we won’t afford it. We don’t even use that service line, yet we have to pay for it.\" Meanwhile, a jeepney driver from El Rio questioned the fairness of Davao City residents subsidizing infrastructure repairs outside the city. \"Our service here is fairly stable. If we have to pay for Nordeco’s rehabilitation, it feels unfair since we’re not benefiting.\" These voices reflect MAP’s demand for Davao Light to demonstrate clearly that costs from Nordeco’s system rehabilitation will not be transferred to existing customers in Davao City. ### Company Response and Ongoing Uncertainties At a recent press briefing on September 17, Fermin Edillon, Davao Light’s Reputation Head, affirmed that Mindanao’s power supply remains stable, pointing out the absence of power emergency alerts in September. He clarified that the recent rate increase resulted from market conditions and power plant outages rather than the utility’s territorial expansion. Edillon also noted that electricity demand typically rises in October and November due to peak industrial activity, necessitating careful supply management. He assured that Davao Light is dedicated to maintaining service reliability amid its expansion efforts. Despite this, Davao Light has yet to directly address MAP’s concerns regarding cost pass-through. ### Transition Challenges and Consumer Confusion Davao Light has commenced its expansion through initiatives such as breaking ground for its first digital substation in Tagum City last July and installing distribution poles in Kapalong, Davao del Norte. However, Nordeco insists it remains the legitimate operator until the Supreme Court resolves its challenge to Republic Act 12144, which authorizes Davao Light’s takeover. The cooperative claims its operations continue normally and has not formally engaged with Davao Light on transition arrangements. This legal and operational impasse has generated uncertainty among consumers, particularly in areas under Nordeco’s jurisdiction where service remains inconsistent and bills high. Meanwhile, Davao City residents within Davao Light’s coverage express anxiety over potentially subsidizing the costly rehabilitation of an external power network. As Davao Light advances its regional presence, transparency and clear communication remain critical to addressing consumer concerns and fostering trust.

Domingo and Fajardo Clash for IBF Asia Flyweight Title in Manila

ESNETH Domingo and Miel Fajardo are set to compete for the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) Asia flyweight title in a highly anticipated all-Filipino showdown scheduled for October 26, 2025, at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila. The 28-year-old Domingo is aiming to regain momentum after a recent setback that affected his position in the world rankings. Currently ranked No. 11 by the IBF and No. 15 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), Domingo needs a decisive victory to climb back up the flyweight ladder. Earlier this year, Domingo suffered a unanimous decision loss to Japan's Jukiya Iimura in an Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) flyweight title fight. However, he rebounded with a third-round stoppage win over Ariston Aton last month in General Santos City. Meanwhile, 25-year-old Fajardo is looking to re-enter the world rankings following a tough period marked by two consecutive losses in regional title bouts last year. He was defeated by Thanongsak Simsri via unanimous decision in an OPBF light-flyweight contest and later suffered a loss to Mchanja Yohana in a WBO Global flyweight title match. Fajardo has since regained form by delivering a swift first-round knockout against Miller Alapormina in Parañaque City. Domingo brings a record of 22 wins, 3 losses, and 14 knockouts, while Fajardo holds a mark of 12 wins, 3 losses, 2 draws, and 11 knockouts. The event's main attraction features an all-Filipino world title bout with reigning IBF minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran (18-4-1, 13 KOs) defending his belt against the unbeaten Cebuano prospect Christian Balunan (12-0, 7 KOs). Adding to the excitement, Cebuano sensation AJ Paciones (11-0, 6 KOs) will face Jeraldine Ocrarit (5-1, 5 KOs). Other notable matches include Lienard Sarcon (13-0, 5 KOs) versus Cebu-based Junibert Bantay (9-0, 1 KO), Hong Kong's undefeated veteran Rex Tso (23-0, 14 KOs) battling Indian challenger Sagar Chouhan (6-0-2, 2 KOs) in his second consecutive fight in the Philippines, and Junny Bugas (6-2, 3 KOs) taking on Richard Garde (11-3, 9 KOs). This fight card promises an action-packed night as Filipino boxing continues to showcase its rising stars and defend its position on the international stage.

Chinese EV Maker BYD Gains Rapid Market Share in Spain Amid Growing Competition

In Barcelona, Javier Hernandez, a 51-year-old excavator operator, recently chose a plug-in hybrid vehicle from China’s BYD, citing its competitive price nearly 10,000 euros lower than comparable European models. Seeking an affordable and versatile option for both city driving and trips to the Catalan mountains, Hernandez overcame his initial skepticism about Chinese electric vehicles due to unfamiliarity with the brand. With government incentives, the BYD Seal U DM-I starts at roughly 30,000 euros in Spain, significantly less than the over 40,000 euros price tags of similarly equipped VW Tiguan and Peugeot 3008 plug-in hybrids. Hernandez remarked, \"The value for money was better, I tried it out and they could give it to me right away.\" Cost-conscious consumers like Hernandez are fueling impressive growth for Chinese EV manufacturers such as BYD across Spain and broader Europe. This growth is intensifying competition with established players including Tesla, Stellantis, and Volkswagen. BYD’s country manager for Spain and Portugal, Alberto De Aza, emphasized the importance of affordability, stating, \"Until the arrival of BYD, if you wanted to buy an electric vehicle, you had to spend a hell of a lot of money.\" He further noted the rapid expansion of BYD’s dealer network in Spain, which nearly quadrupled to around 100 outlets from only 25 dealers the previous year, supported by aggressive marketing and promotional discounts. In contrast, legacy car brands are experiencing a downturn in dealership presence. Data from industry association Faconauto indicates that dealerships for traditional brands have dropped from 2,164 in 2014 to 1,648 in 2024, with Volkswagen and Audi alone seeing a 40% reduction in dealerships during this period. Markus Haupt, interim CEO of SEAT, a VW subsidiary, acknowledged the intensified pressure from Chinese competitors, saying, \"Chinese competitors are increasing the pressure, and not just on us.\" BYD has also made notable strides in market share. As of July, the company holds more than 10% of Spain’s EV market, encompassing both fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This figure is over twice the company’s European average and almost three times higher than Tesla’s 3.3% share. Furthermore, BYD’s total share of Spain’s overall car market rose from 0.3% last year to 1.8% through August, surpassing brands like Jeep and Volvo. The BYD Seal U has become the best-selling plug-in hybrid in Spain so far this year. Despite these gains, BYD still trails behind leading automakers such as Toyota, Renault, and Volkswagen in overall sales. Spain’s automotive market conditions favor this Chinese expansion, analysts say, noting the country lacks a major domestic vehicle manufacturer. Felipe Munoz, an analyst at JATO Dynamics, explained, \"Spain doesn’t have a strong local carmaker. SEAT has lost some of its Spanish identity since being acquired by Volkswagen and appears most vulnerable.\" SEAT’s sales have increased by just 4% this year, lagging behind the market’s 15% growth, with its sister brand Cupra slightly outperforming at 17% sales growth. Chinese brands overall are growing rapidly: SAIC-owned MG experienced a 58% increase in sales, and Chery’s Omoda more than doubled its sales year-on-year in Spain through August. BYD’s sales surged 675% to over 14,000 vehicles in the same period. With fierce competition at home, Chinese EV manufacturers are focusing on Europe for growth. BYD plans to localize all European EV production within three years, constructing a factory in Hungary. Spain, with its developed industrial infrastructure and low electricity costs, is considered a promising expansion site, according to De Aza. However, challenges remain. While electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles accounted for 21% of Spanish car sales in July — up from 10% the previous August — this remains below the European average of 27%. A key barrier is the limited charging infrastructure, with Spain having approximately 50,000 charging points, roughly one-third the number of the Netherlands despite having a larger population. Consequently, Spanish consumers currently favor hybrids and plug-in hybrids, which are central to BYD’s European market strategy. Juan Gonzalez, a 56-year-old IT department head who owns solar panels capable of charging any EV, chose a BYD plug-in hybrid citing concerns about longer trips. \"If you run out of battery and you have to tackle a mountain pass, you’re really in trouble,\" he explained. The rapid adoption of affordable Chinese EVs signals a shifting landscape in Spain’s automotive market, as traditional manufacturers confront growing competition from new entrants leveraging cost advantages and expanding distribution networks.

Bacolod Man Linked to Residential Fire Arrested for Illegal Drugs

Authorities apprehended Fritz Erespe, 49, a resident of Barangay 30 in Bacolod City, on Sunday for drug-related offenses. Erespe, identified by the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) as a street-level dealer, was found in possession of approximately 2 grams of suspected shabu, valued at around P13,600. Erespe's rented residence, shared with his live-in partner, was reportedly the initial location of the recent residential fire in Barangay 27. According to the Bacolod City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze originated from faulty electrical wiring at this property. Despite these allegations, Erespe denied any responsibility for the fire, citing the BFP's findings that attributed the incident to electrical ignition and tapping rather than arson. He also expressed concern over community hostility, stating, \"I am afraid to go to the evacuation center to get some benefits because of the threat that my neighbors are expressing towards me.\" Police Captain Rosalino Pugoy, commander of Bacolod City Police Office Station 4, noted that the testimonies from displaced residents largely implicate Erespe. \"It is natural that he will deny it, but the allegations are pointing to him,\" Pugoy remarked. He advised residents wishing to file formal complaints to coordinate with the BFP for appropriate action. Furthermore, Pugoy emphasized that Erespe has been under police surveillance following his identification as a drug dealer. The suspect is currently detained and will face criminal charges under Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165, known as the Dangerous Drugs Act, as the legal process proceeds.

Especia Rum: Filipino Craftsmanship Earns Global Accolades and Local Debut

Especia Rum, a golden-amber spiced rum crafted in the Philippines, has rapidly accumulated international recognition, securing numerous medals in prestigious competitions across the United States and Europe. From the San Diego Spirits Festival to the New Orleans Spirits Competition, this Filipino spirit has impressed judges and critics alike, now making its official debut in local markets. Initially introduced in the US, Especia Rum earned a Double Gold medal at the San Diego Spirits Festival. It continued its winning streak in New Orleans by capturing a Gold Medal along with the "Best in Category" award. Industry acknowledgment grew further in 2022 with a Silver Medal and an 82-point rating at the Bartender Spirits Awards. The following year, European experts from Falstaff rated Especia 87 points, highlighting its bold flavors of burnt caramel, vanilla, and spices. To date, Especia has amassed 18 medals worldwide, underscoring its status as a globally acclaimed Filipino product. Aged for up to seven years in former bourbon barrels, Especia Rum boasts a rich and inviting flavor profile. Crafted with locally sourced molasses and infused with natural spices, it proudly represents the Philippines' rich rum-making tradition elevated to international standards. The spirit displays a golden color with aromatic notes of cinnamon, honey, ginger, and vanilla. Its taste combines tropical fruits, baking spices, caramel, and honey, culminating in a smooth and balanced finish. Bottled at 40% ABV, Especia is ideal for sipping neat, mixing into cocktails, or celebrating special occasions. This achievement aligns with Tanduay’s ongoing reign as the world’s top-selling rum brand for eight consecutive years, outshining major competitors like Bacardi and Captain Morgan. Roy Kristoffer Sumang, Tanduay’s International Business Development Manager, remarked, "We are proud that a Philippine brand is performing well on the global stage. This recognition reflects the hard work of our teams and the continued trust of our consumers worldwide." With Especia Rum now accessible within the Philippines, consumers can finally savor the internationally acclaimed spirit firsthand. Available through platforms such as Shots.ph, Shopee, Lazada, Singlemalt.ph, select Travel Free retail outlets, and prominent bars in Metro Manila, each bottle represents a testament to Filipino artistry and excellence shared with the world.