Davao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat coffees to represent PH in Southeast Asia competition

 

DAVAO CITY – Coffees from Davao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat provinces are set to represent the country in the Southeast Asia Green Coffee Competition (SEAGCC) in Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat in October.

By Keith Bacongco

Published Aug 4, 2025 03:57 pm

In the Arabica category, eight of the top 10 winners were from coffees grown in Bansalan town in Davao del Sur,  five of which were from Sitio Balutakay, a popular source of top quality Arabica coffee that sits on the slopes of Mount Apo.

Cherry Gil Cabanday topped the Arabica category in the recent national selection for SEAGCC held in this city.

Cabanday, who grows coffee in Purok Pluto in Sitio Balutakay, outshined 51 other entries coming from different parts of the country.

Fellow coffee farmer from Bansalan, Janet Escalera, earned the second spot followed by Finca de Garces of Pangantucan, Bukidnon.

Josephine Libres, who is also from Sitio Balutakay, earned the fourth spot followed by Salome Milagrosa (Barangay Alegre in Bansalan), Cyril Jerome Almanzor (Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur), Marcia Elumirag (Barangay Alegre), Jenny Morales (Sitio Balutakay), John Lawrence dela Cerna (Sitio Balutakay), and Lowell Padrones (Sitio Balutakay).

In the Robusta category, coffees from Sultan Kudarat province captured seven of the Top 10 spots.

The Top 5 winners under the Robusta category, who all hail from Sen. Ninoy Aquino town, are Roan Basco, Idelberto Deramos, Reyjohn Basco, Denz Bert Deramos, and Orlando Bayudan.

They are followed by Ricky Sagayno (Lupon, Davao Oriental), Catherine Joy Alipit (La Trinidad, Benguet), Junerd Ambay (Sen. Ninoy Aquino), Elmer Lucariza (Maragusan, Davao de Oro), and Elmor Jay Seguma (Lebak, Sultan Kudarat).

Twelve farmers participated in the Robusta category.

In a statement, Specialty Coffee Coffee Depot said that the coffees were evaluated by licensed Arabica and Robusta Q Graders from various regions in the country.

The event was supported by the Filipino Coffee Institute, Mindanao Development Authority, European Union, German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the Deutsche Geselleschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarebeit (GIZ), and Department of Agriculture-11 High Value Crops Division.

Angelbert Cortes of Cavite State University emerged as the lone winner under the Excelsa Category.

Brando Mediano, chairman of the Specialty Coffee Marketing Cooperative, explained that coffee from Mount Apo dominated the Arabica category because farmers mainly grow Arabica.

Sultan Kudarat topped the Robusta category because the hinterland areas of the province is a known source, Mediano added.

He said that Philippine coffees that joined the competition were not just delicious, but were thoughtfully grown, carefully processed, and full of character.

“Many stood out for their complexity, harmony, and individuality. It was a challenge to cup because of the high level of quality across the board,” said Mediano, who also served as one of the competition’s evaluators.

For coffees grown in the slopes of Mount Apo, he attributed the distinct taste to different factors that contributed to its quality.

Mediano said that coffees grown in Mount Apo are shaped by the terroir of volcanic soils, shifting mountain weather, and the deep roots of tradition.

“But what truly sets it apart are the people. The experienced farmers continue to apply proven, tested methods that have stood the test of time, while the younger generation brings a spirit of innovation, curiosity, and openness to the future,” he said.

Mediano lauded the dedication of farmers for producing world-class coffee.

For him, it is not just a competition of flavor but also a celebration of culture, effort, and story.

“In a sense, everyone who brought coffee to the table is already a winner, because they are contributing to something much bigger than themselves.”

Klea clears Janella: No third party

 

By Neil Ramos

Published Aug 4, 2025 05:03 pm

Klea Pineda has officially denied rumors that Janella Salvador had anything to do with her recent breakup with longtime partner Katrice Kierulf.

The rumor was started by some netizens who have been sharing on social media photos and videos of Klea and Janella looking a tad too sweet and cozy for comfort.

Note the two worked together recently for the Cinemalaya film entry “Open Endings.”

But fans insist the photos and videos were not part of the film.

Supposedly, these were taken after filming was already done.

So was it just professional closeness or something more?

In a sideline interview with GMA News during the GMA Gala over the weekend, Klea tried to put the rumors to rest:

“I’m aware of what’s happening, but I keep saying that there’s no third party. My closeness with Janella is inevitable because we worked together on a film. The third party issue, come on, guys, stop it already.”

But the internet won’t stop. Especially not after Katrice liked some very telling TikTok comments naming Janella as the "other party."

Subtle? Not even a little.

And just when things were cooling off, Janella herself threw a well-timed match into the bonfire.

On X, she posted: “You will hear from me. Right place, right time.”

Looks like things are about to heat up.

AI is here: Are we ready?

 

By Manila Bulletin

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept—it’s already transforming the way we live, work, and make decisions. From customer service bots and algorithm-driven traffic systems to AI-generated learning tools and financial technologies, AI is reshaping industries and everyday life. But in the face of this global wave, a pressing question emerges for the Philippines: are we prepared?

In recent years, the government has taken crucial steps to embrace AI. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) have recognized AI as a key pillar for economic competitiveness. In 2021, the National AI Roadmap was launched with goals to develop an AI ecosystem and establish the country as an “AI Center for Excellence” in the ASEAN region.

In February 2025, the Department of Education (DepEd) launched the Education Center for AI Research (ECAIR) to provide AI-powered solutions in the education system. Started in 2024, this initiative builds on the pioneering efforts of the Center for AI Research (CAIR).

In May this year, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), unveiled its latest AI-powered innovations and digital infrastructure projects. These initiatives now support over 300 state universities and colleges, SMEs, research teams, and local government units across the country, providing them with access to advanced AI tools, training, and infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Filipino workers, particularly in the BPO (business process outsourcing) sector, face the very real threat of automation. Tasks such as customer service, basic transcription, and simple coding are now increasingly handled by AI systems. A study estimated that by 2030, up to 50 percent of work activities could be automated globally. In the Philippines, where over a million people rely on the BPO industry, the disruption could be massive—unless proactive measures are taken.

The solution is not to resist AI, but to ensure Filipinos can work with it, not be replaced by it. This requires a sweeping digital upskilling of our workforce. Government, educational institutions, and the private sector must continue to invest in AI literacy—starting with high school curricula, extending into technical-vocational education, and including lifelong learning opportunities for adults. Programs that teach data analysis, machine learning basics, prompt engineering, and digital ethics must be accessible and affordable.

AI also brings potential for good—if deployed with care. In the health sector, AI-powered diagnostics and mobile apps can reach underserved communities. In agriculture, AI can help farmers analyze weather patterns and optimize planting cycles. In education, personalized learning tools can support students struggling with traditional classroom methods.

Equally important is protecting human rights and ethical standards in the use of AI. How do we safeguard personal data? What regulations exist to prevent misuse—especially in facial recognition, surveillance, and misinformation campaigns? In a country already vulnerable to digital disinformation and privacy breaches, strong legal and ethical frameworks are non-negotiable.

We must also close the glaring digital divide. Millions of Filipinos still lack reliable internet, basic devices, or even electricity. As AI adoption accelerates, this digital gap threatens to widen economic and educational inequalities. Connectivity, inclusion, and access to tools are the foundations of any true AI-readiness program.

AI is not a trend—it is a transformation. The challenge is not just technological but societal: how do we ensure that AI empowers people, rather than marginalizes them?

EU provides P33M in aid to help typhoon-hit PH

 

Residents of Barangay Roxas District in Quezon City wade through floodwaters caused by continuous heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat, on July 22, 2025. (Photo by Santi San Juan/MANILA BULLETIN)

The European Union (EU) announced that it is providing €500,000 (approximately P33 million) in humanitarian aid to help the victims of the recent typhoons and floods in the Philippines. The EU said the funding “will help address the most pressing needs of people in the hardest hit areas of Calabarzon and Central Luzon, notably communities in hard-to-reach areas.” Read more

Leptospirosis has reached its epidemic threshold in Quezon City

 

Leptospirosis has reached its epidemic threshold in Quezon City, with 43 new cases recorded in just seven days from July 24 to 30, health officials there reported last Sunday.

“Epidemic threshold” refers to the value used by epediomologist to determine if an infectious disease will spread further or die out.

In fact, the Department of Health is now on the alert as it anticipates a rise in leptospirosis cases due to the rainfall and flooding caused by three recent tropical cyclones and the southwest monsoon.

But even before this year, the disease has shown an increasing trend nationwide since an outbreak in 2020, according  an article published in November 2023 in the Annals of Medicine & Surgery.

To appreciate how quickly the cases increased, the article pointed out that there 182 cases recorded in 2020, 1,661 in, 2021, and 2,794 in 2022.

Here’s an excerpt from the abstract of that article:

Leptospirosis is prevalent in the Philippines due to its location in the tropics along the typhoon belt. Outbreaks typically occur after floods or heavy rainfall in flood-prone places like Metro Manila.

Therefore, leptospirosis epidemics in urban areas have been linked to the growth of slum areas, inadequate waste management, heavy rainfall, and flooding.

These factors create ecological conditions that facilitate the spread of rat-borne diseases.

in rural areas, leptospirosis is described as an occupational illness among agricultural and animal workers in rural settings.

Note the phrases “growth of slum areas” and “inadequate waste management.” Government officials have regularly blamed them for causing floods, which in turn spreads the Leptospira bacteria.

Clearly, those two urban problems need government action — not only to curb leptospirosis cases but to solve a host of other problems as well.

Meanwhile, as that action may take a long time coming, here are two articles you may want to consult first to avoid the disease.

Logic alone cannot hack it

 

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

WHILE logic will always have an important role to play in our life, we should also realize that logic alone cannot cope with all the realities that we have to deal with in our life. Our logic can only work within the natural plane and our human level. It can hardly manage to take on realities that are spiritual and supernatural, let alone, divine wisdom which in the end should always guide us.

How can human logic, for example, understand such Christian teachings as to love our enemies, to die in order to live, to be the last in order to be the first, the master has to be first a servant, a virgin giving birth, etc.? That’s when our logic would just be kaput.

To be guided by human logic alone unavoidably would lead us to be judgmental and self-righteous. This was what happened to some of the leading Jews during Christ’s time. Lacking in humility, their faith was undermined and they ended up not only misjudging Christ but also crucifying him.

We have to be humble enough to acknowledge that our logic-certainties can never cope with the mysteries of life. No matter how objective and scientific these certainties are derived, no matter how deep and exhaustive our philosophies, theologies and ideologies are made, our certainties just cannot take all the mysteries in our life.

Even in the world of nature where in theory we have the capacity to know things conclusively, we often find ourselves in situations of tentativeness and even of outright error. That is why we are always in the process of discoveries and we would not know when we can end it, that is to say, when we can say that we have known everything to be known in the world of nature.

This does not mean that our certainties can never know the truth, even the absolute, and not just relative, truths. Yes, we can, but the best that we can do is to project ourselves to infinite possibilities, because even the absolute truths are not things that are frozen. They are always dynamic.

Our logical certainties can only tackle some aspects and levels of the reality that is proper to us. We need to realize more deeply that we have to contend not only with natural and even spiritual realities but also with supernatural realities that simply are above our nature to know, unless some revelation is made which should be corresponded to with our act of belief.

Indeed, we have to be truly humble to acknowledge this fact of life and behave accordingly. While we can know some aspects of the truth, we can never say that we know everything. Not even our mathematical precision and scientific accuracy can warrant us to claim that we know everything.

That is why we need to be most careful with our judgments. We have to judge fairly, that is, with love of God and neighbor as the main motive for judging. From the Book of Leviticus, we read: “You shall not act dishonestly in rendering judgment. Show neither partiality to the weak nor deference to the mighty, but judge your fellow men justly.” (19,15)

If we have love for God and neighbor as the main motive for judging, we would know what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. And somehow, we can manage to judge all things, just as St. Paul once said: “He that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.” (1 Cor 2,15)

The other meaning of LGBT

BY EMIL JOHN VALENZUELA

AUGUST 4, 2025

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How Gen Alpha bullying hides in slang

Growing up in the church, my earliest memories are filled with the scent of old wooden pews, the sound of hymns echoing off the walls, and the solemn rituals that shaped my understanding of holiness.

I was a child who loved the sacred, the pageantry of worship, the mystery of prayer, the stories of prophets and promise. But even then, before I had the words to name it, I also knew I was different. I was queer.

I was immersed in the rituals and rhythms of faith. I knew the order of worship by heart, memorized verses before I could spell “salvation,” and sang hymns with a voice I hoped sounded strong enough to drown out the confusion inside me. And in the same breath that I learned about divine love, I also learned to fear divine disappointment. From a young age, I felt a call to serve, but I also felt a deep and unspoken fear: what if God didn’t want me as I am?

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Caught on camera: Technology can be a double-edged sword

 

By Manila Bulletin

Published Aug 2, 2025 12:05 am

Cameras have the power to humble the arrogant and hold the powerful accountable. We have seen many instances where abusive motorists and traffic enforcers, rude government clerks, or even VIPs bypassing rules have been caught red-handed. For the public, the lens can be a form of justice.

It can also be the source of witnessing situations we would never have the chance to see if CCTVs were not perched somewhere up there. Among these — an angry motorist pulling out his gun and shooting a person; an SUV "running amok" crashing onto vehicles, speeding through the highway and finally causing a gas station fire; random people walking in the midst of crawling traffic and divesting a truck of its valuable cargo.

In today’s hyperconnected world, it often feels like someone is always watching. From CCTV units on every street corner to camera phones in every hand, a person is constantly in the lens of a camera — sometimes knowingly, often not. In many cases, this has brought good results.

Public officials, once emboldened by anonymity or power, now act with more caution, aware that even the smallest indiscretion could be recorded, uploaded, and go viral within minutes. Arrogant citizens who break the law, bully traffic enforcers, or who run away from the scene of a crime are caught on street CCTV — or on curious citizens’ phones — and get penalized by the authorities.

There have been many videos that became viral on social media that have shown images of people in questionable situations, like the image of online gaming on a mobile phone screen. Whether or not these images were real, manipulated, or came from an email inbox, these triggered public outrage.

The clip became a rallying point for renewed calls to ban or heavily regulate online gaming and other forms of digital gambling, which have reportedly led to personal bankruptcies, domestic conflict, and addiction. In this case, the camera has sparked debates on regulating online gambling.

But technology is also a double-edged sword. And there is a deeper concern here – privacy. As much as we value the ability to call out misconduct, we must also be mindful of the growing invasion of private spaces especially while in public places. Everyday citizens are increasingly vulnerable to being filmed during unguarded moments — at work, on public transport, in elevators, even in what they assumed were private conversations. These clips, often uploaded without consent, can lead to online shaming, damage or reputations, and even legal trouble.

What, then, can we do?

First, we must educate ourselves and others about digital privacy and the laws that protect privacy.

Second, we must urge the government to create clearer policies on surveillance, facial recognition, and data retention. Who owns the data? Who ensures it won’t be misused? These are questions still largely unanswered.

Third, we must hold ourselves accountable. Not every viral clip deserves to be shared. The dignity of others — even those we disagree with — should not be sacrificed for clicks.

Technology is not inherently good or evil. It reflects the values of those who use it. As cameras become more present in our daily lives, let us use them responsibly — protecting the truth, upholding accountability, and defending each other’s right to be human.

Because someone is always watching. The question is: for what purpose?

Stars of tomorrow: Star Magic introduces the most promising new faces

By Robert Requintina

Published Aug 3, 2025 11:59 am

Coach Jim Saret, Coach Toni Saret, Joaquin Arce, Angelina Cruz, Ezri Mitra, Julia Mitra, Tasha Mitra, Michelle Garcia, Carmella Ford, Christof, Ice Almeria, and Iñigo Jose.

Star Magic celebrated yet another milestone as the management formally welcomed a fresh batch of artists at the “Shining Now” contract signing and mediacon event last July 25.

The special gathering featured a lineup of promising young stars as well as renowned fitness coaches Toni and Jim Saret—long-time partners of Star Magic—who officially signed under the management.

The coaches’ signing symbolized Star Magic’s deeper commitment to nurturing artists holistically, ensuring that being a Tatak Star Magic goes beyond charisma; it also means cultivating discipline and wellness. According to Coach Toni Saret, "Ang gusto naming mangyari ay maging pangkalahatan na ang fitness at maging abot kamay. Through this, through what you've given us, we get every Filipino fitter, healthier, and stronger."

Carmella Ford

Kicking off the lineup of rising stars was Carmella Ford, who came with the loving support of her mom and co-manager, Karla Estrada. A standout in the recent Star Magic All-Star Games, where she was named part of the Mythical Six, Carmella dreams of taking on action-packed roles. When asked about her plans for her showbiz journey, she said, “I hope to grow and to prove myself, and to create my own path here in the industry.”

Inigo Jose

Iñigo Jose, son of actor James Blanco, was also introduced. At the event, he was supported by his family, including his mom, Tania Creighton, and his brother. With a clear vision of becoming both an action star and a rom-com lead, Iñigo is determined to carve his own path in showbiz. Thinking about the challenges he might face in his career, he expressed, "Sa challenges… syempre pag humarap naman sa akin ‘yun, I’ve just got to face it with grace.”

Michelle Garcia

Michelle Garcia, 12, may be the youngest in the group, but she’s already an experienced performer. Joined by her proud parents and co-managers, Patrick Garcia and Nikka Garcia, Michelle’s stage presence and passion for dance show that talent speaks louder than age. She has already performed as a front act at the Grand BINIverse concert at the Big Dome.

Also under Star Music, she shared about how her passion for performing began: “Actually my dad didn’t influence me; it came from me. I would watch K-pop, P-pop, everything! So from watching that, I wanted to perform.”

Ice Almeria

Ice Almeria, Time to Dance grand champion, known for his standout dance moves, proved that there’s more to him than meets the eye. Ice expressed how grateful he was for Star Magic: “From Time to Dance to Star Magic, I am really beyond grateful. Siguro po nakita ni Lord how I started nine years ago. This is really what I've prayed for…Hindi pa rin ako bumibitaw sa munting pangarap na may mararating ang pagsasayaw.”

Mitra Sisters (Tasha, Julia, and Ezri)

The Mitra sisters—Ezri, Julia, and Tasha, daughters of concert producer Cacai Mitra and renowned musical director and composer Raul Mitra, and nieces of Asia’s Songbird, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid—are ready to make their names in the industry. The eldest of the sisters, Ezri, told the audience about what makes their group different: “Something unique about us is that we’re not afraid to fight, because we’re sisters, we’re very upfront with each other, and we tell each other everything that we need to know straight up. Because at the end of the day, we’ll be okay, because we’re doing it with good intentions.” The trio is also currently working on original music under Star Music.

Joaquin Arce

Joaquin Arce, son of producer Neil Arce, was a charismatic addition to the roster. An aspiring actor, this Korean drama fan is eager to face the camera and begin his journey in the spotlight. He shared, “It’s an honor to walk alongside the best to ever do it. To walk alongside them and the cast and crew behind them just means that I have to keep up and do my very best… so it means a lot to me.”

Up next was Christof, a budding rockstar, who arrived with his mom and co-manager, actress Gladys Reyes. Also a recording artist under Star Music, Christof is ready to explore new creative heights in his passion. Reflecting on being a celebrity and staying true to oneself, he said, “Not only do we as celebrities have to keep ourselves authentic, but in return, we also want to see authenticity in our audience.”

Rounding out the new batch was Angelina Cruz, one of Star Magic’s newest shining stars. While newly signed, she’s already part of the upcoming Kapamilya series The Alibi, where she stars alongside Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino. When asked about her ultimate dream, Angelina said, “My ultimate dream is to play a lead role in a teleserye or movie. Speaking of serye, watch out for me in an upcoming Kapamilya serye coming out very very soon, I'm so excited!”

Though composed of fresh faces, ‘Shining Now’ was a memorable event filled with promise, potential, and passion. These new artists, each with their own story and drive, are all eager to shine and show the world what Tatak Star Magic truly means.

Gabbi Garcia swears by this Filipino brand for her everyday elegant look

 

Gabbi Garcia swears by this Filipino brand for her everyday elegant look

By MBrand

Published Aug 2, 2025 09:50 am

Alberto, the beloved Filipino lifestyle brand known for its chic, comfortable, and high-quality footwear and bags, proudly welcomes Gabbi Garcia as its first-ever female brand ambassador. This exciting partnership kicks off a new era for the brand as it celebrates “35 Years of Everyday Elegance” in 2025—signaling a bold evolution for the trusted homegrown name.

Welcoming Gabbi into the Alberto family felt like the most natural step forward. “We chose Gabbi because she truly reflects what Alberto is all about,” shared Alberto Gaerlan, the brand’s namesake and founder. “As we mark our 35th year with the ‘Everyday Elegance’ campaign, we wanted someone who embodies timeless beauty, effortless style, and that unique Filipina charm—qualities at the heart of our brand.” Gabbi’s vibrant, down-to-earth personality and her sense of style—both classic and current—make her a perfect match for Alberto.

For Gabbi Garcia, joining the brand feels like a full-circle moment. “I grew up seeing Alberto stores in the mall, so when the opportunity came, it really felt full circle,” she said. “I love that they’re a proudly Filipino brand that’s been around for years.” Gabbi also expressed her admiration for the brand’s authenticity, rooted in Filipino values like family, craftsmanship, and accessibility—all while staying current with fashion trends.

This collaboration marks a meaningful new chapter in Alberto’s story, highlighting the brand’s evolution and forward-looking direction. Since 1990, Alberto has been part of Filipinos’ everyday lives. Now, as it celebrates its 35th year in 2025, the homegrown label steps into a new era—staying true to its heritage of everyday elegance while embracing contemporary trends and the style and spirit of today’s modern, dynamic working class.

“Our partnership with Gabbi represents this evolution, as we continue to introduce fresh collections that blend timeless appeal with contemporary trends,” Gaerlan added.

Gabbi describes her style as “effortless and evolving,” which perfectly aligns with Alberto’s collection. “I like to be chic when I want, comfy when I need. I choose pieces that feel like ‘me’ but are also functional,” she said. She values the brand for being stylish without trying too hard—and versatile enough for both glam moments and everyday errands. Comfort and quality are her top priorities: “I always choose comfort and craftsmanship—cute alone isn’t enough. I move a lot, so I need pieces that keep up without sacrificing style.”

Her current favorites include Alberto’s strappy kitten heels, praised for their comfort and elegance, and a suede bag she finds chic and easy to style.

“Alberto fits into everyday life—whether at work, on weekends, or casual days. There’s an Alberto for every Filipina. I want them to see how these pieces can elevate their style without feeling intimidating,” Gabbi shared.

Shoppers can look forward to exciting things from this collaboration, including exclusive collections and new product drops that bring the brand’s vision of “everyday elegance” to life with a fresh twist. Expect standout, trend-forward pieces that reflect Gabbi’s effortless style—wearable looks that inspire and resonate with the everyday lives of Filipinos.

Alberto is available in over 90 stores nationwide and online at www.alberto.com.ph, as well as on Lazada, Shopee, TikTok, and Zalora.