November 8, 2025

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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 104, temporarily reducing the import duty on tin-mill blackplate (TMBP)—the primary material used in producing tin plates and tin-free steel used in cans for canned food—to help stabilize the supply chain and lower production costs in the country’s canned food industry.

By the authority of President Marcos, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed the measure, endorsed by the Economy and Development Council, which seeks to revitalize local tin plate and tin-free steel manufacturing—key components in food packaging—amid the absence of domestic TMBP production.

The new tariff rates will take effect and remain in force for three years, subject to review after one year.

“At present, there is no local production of TMBP, and there is also no local product that can substitute for said commodity,” EO No. 104 stated.

TMBP serves as the main material in the production of Tin Plate (TP) and Tin-Free Steel (TFS), which are primarily used in the canned food industry.

According to the Economy and Development (ED) Council, temporarily modifying the rate of import duty on TMBP will revitalize domestic TP and TFS industries, promoting consumer welfare by stabilizing the supply chain, lowering production costs, generating employment, and fostering a favorable environment for investment.

On 20 August 2025, the ED Council endorsed the reduction of the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rate on TMBP.

The Palace stated that all other issuances, administrative rules and regulations, or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with EO 104 are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

In issuing the EO, the Palace cited Section 13, Article XI of the Constitution, which mandates the State to pursue a trade policy that serves the general welfare, and Republic Act No. 10863, or the “Customs Modernization and Tariff Act,” which empowers the President—upon the recommendation of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev)—to adjust existing import duty rates in the interest of general welfare and national security. – PND

November 9, 2025

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Malacañang issued Executive Order No. 105, extending the 15 percent tax on imported rice until December 31, 2025, and establishing the Inter-Agency Group on Rice Tariff Adjustment to monitor and adjust rice import taxes in response to changes in world market prices.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s EO 105 also provides for tariff adjustments, effective January 1, 2026, based on movements in international rice prices, with rates ranging from 15 to 35 percent.

“Section 2 provides that the MFN (Most Favored Nation) rates of duty on rice, both in-quota and out-quota, under EO No. 62 (modifying the nomenclature and rates of import duty on various products) shall be maintained until 31 December 2025,” EO 105 added.

The order provides that “beginning 01 January 2026, the MFN rates of duty on rice shall be: increased by five (5) percentage points per five percent (5%) decrease in international rice prices; or decreased by five (5) percentage points per five percent (5%) increase in international rice prices.”

“However, the MFN rates of duty on rice, both in-quota and out-quota, shall in no case be below 15% or above 35%,” EO 105 stated.

The directive also added that Inter-Agency GRTA shall be composed of representatives from the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Finance, and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs.

The Inter-Agency Group was directed to formulate the guidelines necessary to implement this Order, including the determination of the thresholds, certification by the DA that said thresholds or trigger price levels have been reached, monitoring period, and other relevant details regarding the adjustment of the MFN rates of duty on rice.

The Constitution provides that the State shall pursue a trade policy that serves the general welfare and Republic Act (RA) No. 10863 or the “Customs Modernization and Tariff Act” empowers the President, in the interest of general welfare and national security…to increase or reduce at any level and/or remove existing rates of import duty, in one or several stages.

RA No. 8178 or the “Agricultural Tariffication Act,” authorizes the President to increase, reduce, revise, or adjust existing rates of import duty up to the bound rate committed by the Philippines under the World Trade Agreement on Agriculture and the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, including any necessary change in classification applicable to the importation of rice.

EO 62 set forth the MFN tariff rates on rice at 15% for both in-quota and out-quota, subject to review every four months.

The Economy and Development (ED) Council resolved to maintain the MFN tariff rate on rice at 15% until 31 December 2025, both for in-quota and out-quota, and to implement a mechanism for adjusting the MFN tariff rate on rice in accordance with international market conditions starting 1 January 2026.- PND

Palace suspends gov’t work and classes on Monday

November 9, 2025

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Malacañang has ordered the suspension of work in government offices on Monday, November 10, as well as classes in several regions on November 10 and 11, due to the expected major impacts of Super Typhoon Uwan.

By the authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Memorandum Circular No. 106, which provided that government work in the National Capital Region (NCR), Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and in the regions of Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, MIMAROPA, Bicol and Eastern Visayas will be suspended on November 10.

MC 106 indicated that classes at all levels in those regions, including Regions VI, VII, and the Negros Island Region, are suspended for two days.

“Upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and in view of the forecasted major impacts that will be brought about by Super Typhoon “Uwan”, work in government offices in the NCR, CAR, and Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, V and VIII is hereby suspended on 10 November 2025,” the memorandum circular added.

“Further, classes at all levels in the aforementioned Regions, Region VI (Western Visayas), Region VII (Central Visayas), and the Negros Island Region are also suspended on 10 and 11 November 2025,” MC 106 stated.

The memorandum also provided that government agencies responsible for basic, vital and health services, preparedness and response duties must continue to remain operational.

“To further ensure continuity of essential government functions, all other government agencies in the aforementioned regions may implement alternate work arrangements, as may be necessary, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations,” the order added.

MC 106 stated that” the localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other regions may be implemented by their respective Local Chief Executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules and regulations.”

The order said the suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads.- PND

October 20, 2025

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Malacañang on Monday assured the business community that the government under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is actively working to combat corruption while strengthening transparency and accountability within the bureaucracy.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro enumerated current initiatives by the Marcos administration to address corruption.

Castro cited the launching of the Sumbong sa Pangulo website and the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure through Executive Order No. 94 to investigate anomalous flood control projects and other infrastructure.

Castro also cited the freeze orders on the assets of those implicated in corruption cases, alongside the issuance of Immigration Lookout Bulletin Orders (ILBOs) and the recommendation to file charges against former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co.

“So, marami na pong nagawa at marami pa pong iniimbestigahan. Nararamdaman po ng Pangulo at ng administrasyon ang mga nararamdaman ng mga businessmen kaya po patuloy ang ginagawang pag-iimbestiga at patuloy ang pagpapabilis ng aksyon para po mapanagot ang dapat na mapanagot,” Castro said.

“Siguro ang hiling na lamang po natin doon sa mga obstructionists na gumagawa na lang ng iba’t ibang kuwento para sirain ang integridad ng ICI, bawasan nila ito o hintuan na nila dahil hindi po ito nakakatulong sa ekonomiya.”

On the call to legislate more power to the ICI, Castro said President Marcos would support moves to provide additional powers to the commission as long as it is for the benefit of the public.

“Mas maganda po talaga na magkaroon ng mas ngipin, pangil ang ICI. Pero sa ngayon po, nakikita naman po natin na maganda ang itinatakbo ng ICI,” the Palace official said.

Major business organizations in the country hav

By Crisver Hinayon

October 17, 2025

KABACAN, Cotabato Province (PIA) — State-run University of Southern Mindanao (USM) in Kabacan, Cotabato Province, will continue to pursue growth in academic excellence, social relevance, and financial sustainability, university president Dr. Jonald Pimentel pledged during his first state of the university address (SUA) recently.

“USM remains steadfast in fulfilling its mandate to provide exceptional instruction, and we are committed to continuously enhancing the quality of education we deliver to our students,” Pimentel said.

Pimentel emphasized that collaboration is vital for USM to continue being a beacon in its community and field.

This approach, he stated, will not only sustain its present achievements but also motivate future generations through a commitment to educational excellence and innovative practices.

“I am confident that through our collective effort, USM will continue to be a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and hope,” he said.

On his 288th day in office, the president used his SUA to detail USM’s future direction, focusing on improvements in four core areas: education, research/innovation, community service, and financial sustainability.

Presenting the strategic plan, Pimentel emphasized the university’s primary goal: to provide high-quality, inclusive, and accessible education that prepares students to thrive in a competitive global environment.

USM will achieve this, Pimentel emphasized, adding that the university will continuously improve the curriculum and secure stronger program accreditation to ensure academic excellence and global relevance.

In addition, the institution is poised to strengthen international partnerships to facilitate student and faculty exchanges that provide global perspectives and advanced knowledge.

In research and innovation, USM aims to establish itself as a hub for innovation and impactful research that directly tackles societal issues and challenges by prioritizing socially relevant and multidisciplinary research in vital areas such as health, environment, technology, community development, and economic resilience.

USM also underscored its commitment to enhancing its support for researchers by increasing funding, building capacity, and upgrading infrastructure to improve the quality and impact of their work.

Pimental further stated that the university plans to strengthen its extension services, which bring university expertise and resources to the public, by focusing on delivering programs that are responsive, relevant, and sustainable.

He also vowed to deepen partnerships with local governments, industries, and community organizations to co-create solutions that empower local communities and improve their quality of life.

He added that by integrating diversity and inclusion principles in all activities, it will ensure marginalized groups have equal access to resources and opportunities.

To ensure long-term stability and growth, the university will also strengthen industry partnerships, develop socially responsible enterprises, generate income through the commercialization of research, and optimize the use of its land and property assets.

“The achievements and future directions of the University are firmly built upon the strong foundation laid by previous administrations,” Pimentel said.

He urged the public to continue building a more inclusive, dynamic, and globally connected university.

Pimentel also acknowledged both the hard work of individual people and the shared dedication of everyone involved to making the university better and more successful.

“Our achievements reflect not only our individual efforts but also our united commitment to the growth and success of our university,” he pointed out. (CSH, PIA Region 12)

By CFO

October 17, 2025

THE Philippines is positioning itself as one of the world’s premier retirement and tourism destinations, leveraging the warmth of its people, affordability, and natural beauty — while aligning with the Commission on Filipinos Overseas’ (CFO) mission to strengthen diaspora engagement and investment in the homeland.

In a recent interview on IBC-13’s The Chairman’s Report hosted by Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II, chairman of the CFO, Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) Chief Executive Officer Roberto “Bob” Zozobrado said the country is poised to attract thousands of retirees and returning Filipinos through its Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) program under the Department of Tourism.

“The Philippines is not just a vacation spot — it’s a place to live your golden years in comfort and community,” he said.

“What truly makes the Philippines unique is its people — the hospitality, the care, the sense of belonging. That’s something money can’t buy.”

The PRA’s SRRV program offers foreign nationals and former Filipino citizens a long-term residency option with benefits such as tax incentives, healthcare access, and investment opportunities. The program has drawn retirees from the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia — and increasingly, digital nomads seeking a flexible lifestyle in a tropical setting.

Zozobrado said the Philippines’ affordability and English proficiency give it a competitive edge over similar retirement destinations such as Spain, Portugal, or Malaysia, where investment requirements are higher.

“Our visa program is accessible and transparent — you don’t need to buy property to retire here,” he said.

Popular locations include Metro Manila, Cebu, and Dumaguete, with growing interest in Baguio, Tagaytay, and emerging eco-tourism destinations. However, Zozobrado acknowledged the need for more world-class retirement and assisted living facilities to serve the growing market.

“We need to build more integrated communities with healthcare, leisure, and security — not just condos,” he said, calling on investors to seize the opportunity to develop the industry.

The CFO, which promotes the welfare of Filipinos overseas and encourages their participation in nation-building, has expressed support for programs like the PRA’s that bridge the diaspora with investment and reintegration opportunities. Many former overseas Filipinos are now returning home to retire, bringing not only remittances but also expertise and entrepreneurial ventures that contribute to local economies.

“Retirement investment is another form of diaspora engagement,” Ang said.

“When former overseas Filipinos choose to retire in the Philippines, they reinvest their resources and experiences into the country, strengthening our global connection.”

Currently, more than 61,000 SRRV holders contribute to the Philippine economy through spending, property investment, and job creation. The PRA aims to expand that figure as it strengthens partnerships with local governments to provide accessible services and assistance to retirees nationwide.

Zozobrado added that the government’s broader tourism and diaspora strategy is a “win-win,” benefiting retirees, communities, and the national economy. “Every foreign retiree or balikbayan who settles here supports local industries — from healthcare to hospitality,” he said.

With the Philippine government’s renewed focus on tourism and diaspora engagement, the country’s transformation into a global retirement and lifestyle hub underscores a wider vision — a homeland that not only welcomes visitors, but also invites Filipinos abroad to come home.

By SEARCA

October 16, 2025

The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) is calling on photographers, students, hobbyists, agripreneurs, and storytellers across Southeast Asia to join the 19th SEARCA Photo Contest. This year’s theme, “Beyond the Harvest: People and Processes in the Agriculture Value Chain,” invites images that reveal the often-unseen steps that bring food from farms and seas to our tables.

SEARCA Center Director Dr. Mercedita Sombilla said, “The contest looks for powerful, human-centered stories showing life after harvest—how crops are cleaned and sorted, how food is processed and packaged, how goods travel by road and water to markets, how vendors and cooperatives trade and sell, and how digital tools help small businesses reach customers.”

“Photos may also capture the pride of families enjoying safe, good-quality food, highlighting how every link in the chain matters,” she added.

The competition is open to all Southeast Asian nationals, with the exception of SEARCA staff and their immediate family members. Participants may submit more than one entry, provided each photo follows the guidelines. SEARCA encourages high-resolution color images with accurate captions that include the location and complete date the photo was taken.

Submissions will be screened for eligibility and shortlisted by a SEARCA committee. A panel of external experts will then select the winners based on relevance to the theme, technical quality, and overall impact. A special SEARCA Center Director’s Choice will also be named.

Winners will receive USD 1,000 for first prize, USD 800 for second prize, USD 600 for third prize, and USD 500 for the Director’s Choice, along with certificates. Selected photographs will be featured on SEARCA’s platforms and in exhibitions.

“Help complete the story of agriculture in Southeast Asia by showing the hands, ideas, and journeys that keep our food systems moving,” Dr. Sombilla urged.

Entries will be accepted until 30 November 2025 at 11:59 PM (Philippine time) through photocontest.searca.org/2025.

By PCO

October 17, 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed his gratitude to government agencies and private groups and individuals for their swift and compassionate assistance to families affected by the recent magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu, commending their vital role in relief and recovery efforts.

President Marcos returned to Bogo City and San Remigio, two of the areas hardest-hit by the earthquake, to check on the situation of affected residents and the progress of government assistance and recovery efforts.

The President said all displaced families are now in shelters where they are provided food, water and other basic services.

“Kaya ako ay nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng ating mga first responder, lahat ng ating mga volunteer, pati na ‘yung mga agencies of government at maganda naman ang naging response,” President Marcos said in his remarks at the Bogo Tent City.

“Siguro hindi naman tayo mapapahiya sa tao na sabi natin eh basta’t may pangangailangan eh nandiyan ang pamahalaan,” the President added.

The President also thanked the Philippine Red Cross led by its chairman Richard Gordon for its assistance in the temporary shelters.

“At kung makita ninyo, maraming tent dito galing talaga sa Red Cross, pati ‘yung mga relief goods nanggaling sa Red Cross. Ang bilis. After one day, nandito na si Chairman. Kaya naunahan ko lang ng one day,” President Marcos said.

The President also recognized the initiative of the Red Cross to set up a kids’ swimming pool in the tent cities.

“Parang maliit lang na bagay, pero hindi. Dahil ang mga bata, kahit paapano, talagang nayanig ang isip nila dahil sa lindol, tapos nawalan ng bahay, tapos lumipat dito. At least, nakita mo na tumatawa na naman, nagsisisigaw. Malaking bagay ‘yan para sa mental health ng ating mga kabataan,” the Chief Executive emphasized.

President Marcos commended the Red Cross, a global humanitarian organization, for its initiatives to assist earthquake victims.

“And that you can tell that Red Cross, talaga sanay na sanay sa ganitong klaseng trabaho. Iniisip pa lang namin, nagawa na nila. Kaya maraming salamat sa Red Cross,” said the President. | PND

President Marcos strengthens PH dairy self-sufficiency with Malaysian milk production plant

October 3, 2025

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Strengthening the local milk industry, reducing dependence on imported dairy products, and generating more jobs for Filipinos.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. inaugurated the Farm Fresh Milk Plant in San Simon, Pampanga on Friday, boosting local dairy production and creating more economic opportunities for Filipinos.

In his speech during the inauguration at the Global Aseana Business Park 2, President Marcos emphasized the significance of milk for both health and the economy, while also highlighting government initiatives aimed at strengthening the local dairy sector.

“Hindi man palaging napapansin, ngunit napakahalaga ng gatas sa ating kalusugan at sa ating ekonomiya… Ang paglaki at pag-develop ng ating kabataan ay nakasalalay sa tamang nutrisyon, kabilang na (rito) ang galing sa gatas,” President Marcos said.

“Ang industriya ng pagkain at manufacturing ay nangangailangan din ng gatas para sa produksyon ng mga tinapay, panghimagas, at iba pang mga delicacies.”

The Chief Executive said the local dairy industry continues to struggle with its dependence on imports and climate-related challenges, acknowledging the need for modern facilities to collect and process dairy products.

The President said the newly inaugurated Farm Fresh Milk Inc. Plant, which is projected to produce 32 million liters of pasteurized milk and 2.4 million liters of yogurt annually, will provide efficient production and sustainable income sources for farmers and farm workers across Pampanga and neighboring provinces.

“None of this would have been possible without the consistent support of Farm Fresh in our collective aspiration to boost our local production of dairy products. Through your efforts, more Filipino farmers, veterinarians can now have a more stable and dignified job,” said the President.

“So, I hope you will continue to improve and expand your operations, while bringing greater opportunities to our communities.”

President Marcos also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Dairy Industry Development Program, under Republic Act 7884, which has distributed 1,042 local cattle and 275 dairy goats to 393 farmers nationwide.

The program provides loans, dairy animals, and training for farmers in dairy management, husbandry, and breeding.

The President added that the government is studying ways to boost production of dairy products and attract more investments into the sector.

“Makakaasa kayo na naririto ang pamahalaan upang magpatupad ng mga programang magpapabilis sa ating pag-proseso ng dairy products,” President Marcos said.

Farm Fresh Milk Inc. is the Philippine subsidiary of Malaysia’s leading dairy company, Farm Fresh Berhad. The 5,700-square meter dairy processing facility in San Simon, Pampanga has an investment capital of PhP312.5 million.

President Marcos led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, together with Philippine and Malaysian officials including Malaysian Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, Special Assistant to the President for Investments and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick D. Go, Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda and Farm Fresh executives.

During the tour of the Farm Fresh Milk plant, the President was joined by 15 grade school learners from San Pablo Elementary School.

From July 2022 to June 2025, the government’s Milk Feeding Program has supplied 19.35 million liters of locally produced milk benefiting 3.37 million children.

Undertaken by the Department of Education and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Milk Feeding Program incorporates fresh milk and fresh milk-based food products in the hot meals provided to children. | PND

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