Former DPWH Official Becomes State Witness in Flood Control Project Probe

Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo has formally applied to become a state witness in the investigation of irregularities concerning flood control projects, according to Brian Hosaka, spokesperson for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), on Monday. During a press briefing, Hosaka revealed that Bernardo submitted a letter explaining his absence from the day’s hearing. In the letter, Bernardo stated that he has applied to the Witness Protection Program (WPP), which entails a confidentiality clause preventing him from disclosing details related to his application as a state witness. "It was also mentioned in the letter that he has now applied under the Witness Protection Program (WPP) ... under this law, he explained that there is a confidentiality clause or provision wherein he is prohibited from disclosing any information connected to his application to become a state witness," Hosaka said. Currently, Bernardo is under protection as a witness within the WPP. Authorities have clarified that individuals granted state witness status are exempt from criminal charges related to the cases they testify on. Hosaka also noted that Bernardo submitted his second supplementary affidavit, which he presented during last week’s Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing. The commission has accepted both the letter and affidavit for thorough examination and incorporation into their ongoing investigation. "The commission accepted his letter and his affidavit so they can be studied and included in our investigation," Hosaka added. This affidavit is expected to be forwarded as part of the next referral to the Office of the Ombudsman. Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres has previously indicated that Bernardo, together with other whistleblowers, has provided comprehensive disclosures to the Department of Justice. These revelations reportedly contain enough evidence to implicate even members of the Senate. The investigation into the flood control projects remains active as authorities proceed with the inclusion of these testimonies and documents.

DigiPlus Interactive Plans Localized Livestream Bingo for Brazil Market

Online gaming operator DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is set to enhance its presence in Brazil by introducing more livestream games tailored to local preferences, with a strong focus on bingo. This strategic move follows insights gained from the first three weeks of its initial soft launch. During an investor presentation hosted by the Philippine Stock Exchange and Bloomberg, DigiPlus president Andy Tsui highlighted the importance of adapting the company\'s offerings to the Brazilian market. "It\'s very important to localize the product so we can attract the new crowd of users. So \u2026 we gathered some critical information about the player behavior in the local culture and some of their game preferences," Tsui stated. He explained that based on these insights, DigiPlus is adjusting its product lineup to better align with Brazilian tastes. "We want to offer a similar product, which we did well in the Philippines, more like a live streaming product, especially Brazilian. They also love bingo. So we are going in that direction, offering some live streaming, maybe bingo in 2026," Tsui added. To facilitate these refinements, DigiPlus temporarily suspended operations shortly after the soft launch in late September. Tsui noted, "We paused the operation in Brazil just after three weeks to make some changes in marketing or product strategies." The company\'s teams from both the Philippines and Brazil are currently collaborating to develop a self-built, localized game designed specifically for the Brazilian audience. DigiPlus aims to commence a full-scale launch of its revamped Brazil offering in early 2026.

Metro Pacific Investments Reports 14% Increase in Core Net Income Driven by Power and Water Units

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) recorded robust growth in the first nine months ending September, with its power and water operations spearheading the uptrend. The conglomerate reported a 14 percent increase in core net income to ₱23.6 billion from ₱20.8 billion during the same period last year. The company attributed this improvement to the strong performance of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) in power generation, the implementation of higher tariffs by Maynilad Water Services, and increased patient volumes across its hospital network, which collectively boosted operational contributions by 12 percent to ₱27.2 billion. Power remains MPIC’s largest revenue generator, accounting for ₱17.6 billion or 65 percent of net operating income. Meanwhile, water and toll roads contributed ₱5.8 billion and ₱4.4 billion respectively, comprising 37 percent of net operating income combined. Despite the growth in core earnings, reported net income rose more modestly by seven percent due to a one-time gain in the prior year from a subsidiary, which affected the year-on-year comparison despite solid underlying business performance. MPIC Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan highlighted the resilience of the company’s core operations. He remarked, "Power and water continued to deliver strong results, while our tollroads faced short-term pressures from higher financing costs but are expected to rebound as newly developed roads mature." Pangilinan also pointed to the public listing of Maynilad as a strategic move to unlock further value and enable reinvestment in enhancing water supply infrastructure and accessibility. "We remain focused on creating sustainable, long-term value across portfolio sectors critical to national development, including energy, water, and food security," he stated. Meralco’s consolidated core net income surged 14 percent to ₱40 billion, bolstered by gains in both power generation and distribution segments. Maynilad posted an 18 percent jump in core net income to ₱11.4 billion, driven by increased revenues and moderated expense growth. Contrastingly, MPIC’s toll road unit, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., experienced a slight 2 percent decline in core net income to ₱4.8 billion. This was due to elevated financing expenses linked to the acquisition of the Jasa Marga Tollroad and cessation of interest capitalization as new toll facilities commenced operation. Nevertheless, toll revenue grew markedly by 17 percent to ₱27 billion, supported by rate hikes and higher traffic volumes within the Philippines.

Ben&Ben Wins Album of the Year as SB19 and BINI Dominate 38th Awit Awards

The 38th Awit Awards, hosted by MQuest Ventures and broadcast via TV5’s music program Vibe on November 16 at the Meralco Theater in Pasig City, celebrated exceptional achievements in the Philippine music industry. Ben&Ben captured the prestigious Album of the Year award for "The Traveller Across Dimensions." However, P-pop sensations SB19 and BINI emerged as the night’s most awarded acts. SB19 claimed accolades for their collaboration with Gloc-9, "Kalakal," winning Music Video of the Year, Best Rap/Hip-hop Recording, and Best Cover Art. Their track "Moonlight," featuring Ian Asher and Terry Zhong, earned them Best Global Collaboration Recording. Additionally, individual members received recognition: Stell was honored as Favorite New Solo Artist, while Felip was named Favorite Solo Artist. Girl group BINI took home Favorite Group Artist and Most Streamed Artist of the Year. Their album "Talaarawan" won Favorite Album of the Year, and their track "Salamin, Salamin" was awarded Best Dance/Electronic Recording. BINI’s fanbase, known as BLOOMS, received the Vibe Stan Award for their dedicated support. Ben&Ben also secured Best Performance by a Group for their song "Triumph." Among other notable winners, Lola Amour earned Record of the Year and Best Alternative Recording for "Namimiss Ko Na." Singer-songwriter Juan Karlos was recognized with Best Regional Recording for "Kasing Kasing" alongside Kyle Echarri and Best Ballad Recording for "Medyo Ako" with Moira. The Awit Awards, an annual event organized by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI), honors the outstanding contributions of Filipino artists, composers, and music professionals. Esteemed veteran Ely Buendia was also celebrated with the Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino award for his significant impact on the country’s music landscape. ### Complete list of select winners at the 38th Awit Awards: - **Album of the Year:** Ben&Ben, The Traveller Across Dimensions - **Song of the Year:** Cup of Joe, "Misteryoso" - **Record of the Year:** Lola Amour, "Namimiss Ko Na" - **Best Performance by a Solo Artist:** iLA, "Di Maipagkakaila" - **Best Collaboration Performance:** Dionela & Jay-R, "Sining" - **Best Performance by a Group:** Ben&Ben, "Triumph" - **Best Performance by a New Group:** 12th Street, "Walang Humpay" - **Best Global Collaboration Recording:** SB19, Ian Asher, Terry Zhong, "Moonlight" - **Best Ballad Recording:** Moira, Juan Karlos, "Medyo Ako" - **Best Pop Recording:** Maki, "Dilaw" - **Best Rock Recording:** Fast Pitch, "The Risk" - **Best Alternative Recording:** Lola Amour, "Namimiss Ko Na" - **Best Musical Arrangement:** Khalil Refuerzo, "Umaycan" - **Best Vocal Arrangement:** Luke Isnani & Felip Suson, "ache" - **Best Engineered Recording:** Arthur Nery & Axel Fernandez, "Segundo, Siguro" - **Best World Music Recording:** Overheat, Camsur Made, "Sarung Banggi" - **Best Novelty Recording:** Introvert Fiesta ft. AJi, "Atras Abante" - **Best Dance/Electronic Recording:** BINI, "Salamin, Salamin" - **Best Inspirational Recording:** December Avenue, "Face of God" - **Best Christmas Recording:** Debonair District, "Paskong Mag-Isa" - **Best Rap/Hip-Hop Recording:** SB19, Gloc-9, "Kalakal" - **Best Jazz Recording:** Debonair District, "Careless Fools"; Alvin Cornista, "Remedios Circle" - **Best R&B Recording:** Jay-R & Dionela, "Sining" - **Best Regional Recording:** Juan Karlos & Kyle Echarri, "Kasing Kasing"; Noel Cabangon, "Umaycan" - **Best Cover Art:** SB19 & Gloc-9, "Kalakal" - **Best Music Video:** SB19 & Gloc-9, "Kalakal" - **Best Recording by a Child or for Children:** Ateneo Boys Choir, "Nasa Palad Mo" - **Most Streamed Artist:** BINI - **People’s Voice Breakthrough Artist:** Stell of SB19 - **People’s Voice Favorite Album:** BINI, Talaarawan - **People’s Voice Favorite Group Artist:** BINI The night underscored the evolving vibrancy of the local music scene, with traditional and contemporary genres alike receiving recognition. The collaborative spirit and rising popularity of P-pop groups continue to shape the industry’s future.

Nestlé Faces Accusations Over Higher Sugar Levels in African Infant Cereals

Swiss non-governmental organisation Public Eye has accused Nestlé of applying double standards by reportedly selling infant cereals with higher added sugar content in Africa than in more developed regions. The allegations were presented following an analysis of nearly 100 samples from Nestlé’s Cerelac instant infant cereal line, collected in collaboration with African civil society groups. Public Eye's laboratory tests indicated that more than 90% of the products sampled in African markets contained significant amounts of added sugar, with an average serving having nearly six grams—double the sugar content found in products sold in India. Nestlé, however, rejected these findings as misleading and unfounded. A company spokesperson emphasized that the total sugar levels in its infant cereals remain well below limits set by the Codex Alimentarius, an international food standards authority. They clarified that the sugars present come naturally from ingredients such as cereals, milk, and fruit, rather than being refined sugars added during production. "If we exclude sugars coming from ingredients like milk, cereals and fruit, our Cerelac infant cereals do not contain the levels of added refined sugars mentioned in the report," the spokesperson stated. This controversy follows a similar Public Eye report from April 2024, which accused Nestlé of adding sugar to baby foods marketed in low-income countries, including India, but not in European markets. That report triggered an investigation by India’s food regulatory agency. The latest findings renew concerns, focusing specifically on African markets. In response, the International Babyfood Action Network (IBFAN) and 19 civil society organisations across 13 African countries—including Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa—addressed an open letter on November 17 to Nestlé CEO Philipp Navratil. They urged the company to eliminate what they described as a "double standard" in the sugar levels of baby foods provided in Africa. Nestlé maintained their stance, asserting, "We do not have double standards, our approach to nutrition is consistent across all countries. We treat all children equally, regardless of where they are." The company also highlighted its commitment to expanding no-added-sugar product variants, which are already available in 97% of its markets globally. Nestlé aims to complete this rollout by the end of 2025.

Emirates Urges Boeing to Develop Larger 777X Jet Amid Delivery Delays

Emirates Airlines continues to urge Boeing to develop a bigger version of its 777X aircraft, according to the airline's president, Tim Clark. Speaking at the Dubai Airshow, Clark disclosed that delivery postponements have resulted in more than $6 billion in costs for the Dubai-based carrier. Emirates, which operates a significant fleet of Airbus A380s nearing phase-out due to the model's discontinuation, is actively seeking a larger jet to succeed these giants. After placing an order for 65 new 777X planes, Clark emphasized the airline’s desire for Boeing to examine a "stretch" variant of the 777-9. "We want to have a thorough examination of stretching the 777-9," Clark stated. "We expect Boeing to commit to exploring this and allow us to have meaningful input into its design." While Boeing grapples with ongoing challenges—including delays that have pushed 777X delivery to 2027—Clark expressed determination to maintain pressure on the manufacturer. "They recognize the necessity, but are currently focused on existing priorities," he added. Boeing has so far agreed only to conduct a feasibility study on a larger 777X model. Emirates, currently the largest buyer of the Boeing 777 family, now has 315 jets on order with Boeing following the latest $38 billion deal. Clark quelled rumors that Emirates might pivot to Airbus’s A350-1000, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to Boeing’s new jet. He believes other airlines will also support a larger stretched 777X variant. "If Emirates pursues this, we won’t be alone; others will likely follow," he remarked. The airline has absorbed more than $6 billion in retrofitting costs while awaiting the delayed Boeing deliveries. "While we don’t place all blame on Boeing, they understand the significant impact on our business," Clark noted. "The critical priority is to get these planes operational, beyond just the financial aspect." On the same day, Boeing’s senior vice-president of sales and marketing, Brad McMullen, confirmed the company’s commitment to studying the development of a larger 777X. Emirates also announced that deliveries of the 777X are now expected to commence in the second quarter of 2027, though Clark remained cautiously optimistic, stating, "We’ll see." The ongoing partnership between Emirates and Boeing remains central to the airline’s future fleet plans amidst industry-wide challenges and evolving market demands.

Napolcom Tightens Measures Against Unauthorized PNP Uniform Sales

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has taken decisive steps to curb the unauthorized manufacture, sale, and distribution of Philippine National Police (PNP) uniforms. In a recent meeting with its accredited uniform suppliers, Napolcom emphasized the need for enhanced oversight and accountability measures to address the growing problem of illegal sellers operating near the PNP National Headquarters and across various online platforms. "These unregulated activities continue to undermine the authenticity of the uniform and jeopardize the institutional standards," the commission stated. Napolcom Chief Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan underscored the importance of safeguarding the police uniform as a symbol of honor and professionalism. He promised that "firm and strategic steps" would be enforced to address the proliferation of unauthorized reproductions. "The PNP uniform is not merely attire; it embodies our commitment to duty, integrity, and public service," Calinisan remarked. "Permitting illegal manufacturing and distribution risks damaging that emblem. Napolcom will strengthen enforcement efforts and ensure that only certified suppliers are held accountable in this framework." The commission plans intensified monitoring of uniform sales across both physical outlets and online channels to prevent misuse and protect the credibility of the police force.

Cavaliers Fined $100,000 for Violating NBA’s Player Participation Policy

The NBA imposed a $100,000 fine on the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday after the team rested key players Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley in a recent matchup against the Miami Heat. This action contravened the league’s Player Participation Policy, which was established ahead of the 2023-24 season to discourage teams from benching star players during regular-season contests, ensuring marquee talents feature prominently in significant games. Despite the absence of Mitchell and Mobley, the Cavaliers secured a 130-116 victory over Miami. Jarrett Allen led the charge with 30 points and 10 rebounds, while De’Andre Hunter contributed 21 points. A decisive fourth-quarter surge, where Cleveland outscored Miami 37-19, proved pivotal in sealing the outcome. The game marked the Cavaliers’ fourth in a demanding five-game stretch over seven days, which included a 140-138 overtime defeat to Miami just two nights prior. Mitchell, who averages 30.9 points per game, and Mobley, with averages of 18.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, are central figures for the team's success. With the win, Cleveland improved their record to 10-5, positioned second in the Eastern Conference standings.

Oman to Offer Visa-Free Entry to Filipino Tourists Starting 2026

During the National Day festivities in Makati City, Oman’s Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Nasser Said Abdullah Al Manwari, announced that Oman will introduce a visa-free travel policy for Filipino tourists starting in 2026. Under this new regulation, Filipinos will be able to visit Oman for up to two weeks without the need for a visa. "Oman will be the first country in the Middle East to waive visa requirements for Filipino travelers, allowing them to enjoy the country without visa constraints," Ambassador Manwari stated in an interview with reporters. The ambassador expressed optimism that easing visa restrictions will significantly boost tourism from the Philippines to Oman. "I anticipate a considerable increase in Filipino visitors after the visa waiver is implemented," he added. Currently, there are direct flights between Manila and Muscat operated by Oman Air. However, Ambassador Manwari revealed ongoing plans to expand air travel options, including the possibility of a new direct route from Cebu. "We are working on increasing flight frequencies and exploring partnerships with other airlines to enhance connectivity," he explained, citing capacity considerations at NAIA as a factor for future expansions. Highlighting Oman’s unique appeal, the ambassador encouraged Filipinos to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. "Oman offers an extraordinary blend of mountains, coastal areas, and deserts. To our Filipino friends, we warmly invite you to discover Oman, a truly unique destination in the Middle East," he said. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening tourism and bilateral relations between Oman and the Philippines.

PLDT and Smart Deploy AI-Driven Consent Management to Enhance Data Privacy for Over 60 Million Users

PLDT Inc. along with its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications Inc. has introduced the OneTrust artificial intelligence platform to bolster data protection for more than 60 million subscribers. The telecom giant announced on Tuesday the deployment of OneTrust Universal Consent and Preference Management (UCPM) software, which aims to grant customers greater transparency and control over their personal information. Smart, PLDT's wireless arm, caters to over 59 million users, while PLDT Home’s fixed-line services cover more than 3 million households. Leah Jimenez, chief data privacy officer for PLDT and Smart, emphasized the company’s dedication to privacy by design, stating, \"The UCPM platform strengthens our commitment by enabling customers to manage their data preferences, while also positioning us for responsible data monetization moving forward.\" The OneTrust solution centralizes consent collection and management, improving overall data protection and empowering users with enhanced privacy controls. Furthermore, PLDT highlights that the platform ensures adherence to consent regulations and streamlines marketing efforts. By gaining deeper customer insights, the company can deliver more relevant content and services without compromising privacy standards. Ojas Rege, senior vice president and general manager at OneTrust, remarked, \"PLDT Group’s adoption of OneTrust’s UCPM sets a benchmark for consent management across Southeast Asia. Consent is vital for personalization, driving customer value and fostering long-term loyalty.\" This latest initiative forms part of PLDT and Smart’s comprehensive strategy to reinforce cybersecurity and uphold stringent data privacy measures.