Coronavirus Lockdown: Revive Community Kitchen, Lockdown Unnecessary, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

Fake news about another lockdown due to a new COVID-19 variant has been circulating online. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2206591/doh-emergency-lockdown-due-to-covid-19-variant-fake

The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday dismissed circulating claims that there will be an emergency lockdown starting April 10, 2026 due to the “Cicada” variant of the Covid-19 virus. 

In an advisory, the DOH tagged posts by Facebook pages “Pinoy Newswire,” “Malasakit News Update: Balitang Sapat, Serbisyong Totoo,” and “Weather Patrol” as “fake news.” 

“The Department of Health emphasizes that circulating claims of emergency lockdown in the country due to Covid-19 Cicada variant is false,” the DOH said.

“There is no reason to implement a lockdown. The agency earlier said last March 31 that the Philippines remains safe from this variant,” it added. 

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Covid variant BA.3.2 or the “Cicada” variant was first detected in a respiratory sample collected on Nov. 22, 2024 in South Africa. 

The CDC noted that the variant has been reported in 23 countries as of Feb. 11, 2026, while detections in the US began increasing in September 2025. 

In a radio interview with DZMM Teleradyo last March 31, DOH spokesperson Dr. Albert Domingo said that while coronavirus mutates, it does not mean that it is something to worry about already.

“It is called a variant under monitoring. There is no reason to be alarmed or bothered by it because the figures do not change. In fact, based on our latest monitoring, there are 60% fewer Covid-19 cases in the Philippines compared to last year,” Domingo said. 

With this, the DOH urged the public to refrain from sharing false information in social media and only rely on verified details provided by the agency and other legitimate media platforms. 

Meanwhile, the Palace on Friday also tagged as “fake news” a circulating announcement from the Department of Energy that there would be an energy lockdown starting April 20, 2026.

The DOH says it's not happening and the number of COVID cases is down by 60% from past year. 

There has been speculation about a lockdown due to the fuel crisis but Senator Gatchalian says that would be unnecessary and economically devastating.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2207675/lockdowns-not-needed-would-hurt-economy-gatchalian

After Malacañang recently denied rumors of an energy lockdown, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian believes such a drastic measure is not necessary as it would adversely affect the economy.

Gatchalian, in a press briefing on Monday, said that many individuals will lose their jobs if a lockdown, just like during the the COVID-19 pandemic, is implemented by the government.

Instead, the concern should be on how the government can stretch its existing oil and fuel supply.

(I don’t advise that we do a lockdown similar to COVID-19 because that would stop our entire economy, many people would lose their jobs.  What we need is to extend the number of days in terms of fuel inventory.)

(We don’t have problems in terms of jobs, we do not have problems regarding health concerns, our problem is how to stretch or the number of days in terms of inventory.)

Malacañang last Friday debunked a circulating “announcement” supposedly from the Department of Energy (DOE) claiming there would be an energy lockdown starting April 20, 2026.

The fraudulent advisory urged the public to prepare power banks, solar equipment, candles, lamps, food, and other essentials in anticipation of the energy lockdown.

Gatchalian said he has already proposed a rationing of fuel to ensure that the current 50 day supply for diesel and gasoline would be stretched out to as far as 80 to 90 days.

The proposal was contained in a set of recommendations he released after two hearings of the Senate’s proactive response and oversight for timely and effective crisis strategy (PROTECT) committee which he heads.

(My proposal is to have rationing or what they call a volume cap, either way, what’s important now is for us to stretch the number of days of our inventory, because right now, if we look at our petroleum products, on the average it will last for 50 days.)

Among Gatchalian’s suggestions in the preliminary report he released last April 1 is a possible price cap on petroleum products and the rationing of fuel, to address supply concerns caused by the Middle East conflict.

What a shock! Where was this guy six years ago when the government killed the economy for no good reason except fear? What a hypocrite. 

While lockdowns may not be returning, the community kitchen in Iloilo City may be coming back.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1272483

This highly urbanized city is preparing to revive the community kitchen initiative to aid the most vulnerable sectors amid surging fuel prices due to the Middle East crisis.

In an interview Tuesday, General Services Office head and Crisis Management Council executive director Neil Ravena said they will conduct a simulation exercise in Barangay Boulevard and Barangay Calaparan so they can effectively respond when the poorest of the poor can no longer afford to buy food.

“We will pilot test so that in the worst-case scenario, we have an automatic response and we can identify the families that we will serve,” he said.

During the simulation exercise, they will practice the integration of responses, identify the beneficiaries and distribute food.

With the intervention, they would know the funds needed to sustain the operations for the expected number of days when they need to subsidize food.

“It will be managed by the CSWDO (City Social Welfare and Development Office) as a response to the current crisis we are experiencing. They will be the ones to distribute. There is a focal person in every barangay,” he said.

Ravena said they will be partnering with Central Philippine University for the establishment of a biowave stove, using rice hulls and sawdust instead of liquefied petroleum gas.

The City Agriculturist Office also volunteered to utilize the produce of city-government-supported vegetable gardens.

The community kitchen was introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2023, with the city government leading the preparation of food for the affected residents.

With the support of the private sector donors, the community kitchen served more than 30,000 meals daily.

At least this time they will be prepared. 

In 2020 one decided to escape to his farm in Tuba, Benguet. Now it is a popular tourist destination. 

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/how-um-a-farm-in-tadiangan-tuba-is-revolutionizing-agritourism-and-driving-growth-in-the-philippines/

Tourism in Barangay Tadiangan in Tuba, Benguet is steadily blossoming, thanks in large part to the rise of agritourism, which combines the beauty of nature, local food, and community involvement. One of the standout destinations in the area is Um-a Farm, a unique farm-to-table experience that offers visitors a chance to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

The Beginnings of Um-a Farm

What started as a private retreat during the height of the pandemic has transformed into a popular agritourism destination. According to Chariz Garcia, an employee of the farm, Um-a Farm began as a peaceful escape for the farm’s owner. However, recognizing the potential of the property, the owner decided to develop the farm and open it to the public in 2024, providing not only a place for relaxation but also a unique culinary experience.

Now fully operational, Um-a Farm has evolved into a sought-after destination for those looking to experience both nature and food in a more interactive and personal way. It proudly promotes a farm-to-table concept, allowing guests to participate in the process of harvesting the vegetables they will later enjoy. This concept has created a deeper connection between visitors and the food they consume, making the dining experience truly one-of-a-kind.

A Hands-On Farm-to-Table Experience

The unique aspect of Um-a Farm is its emphasis on interactive dining. Guests are invited to personally pick vegetables such as pechay, lettuce, kangkong, and watercress from the farm. After harvesting, visitors can request their preferred way of cooking the freshly picked produce, enhancing the personalized nature of the meal.

In addition to its wide variety of vegetables, the farm also raises chickensand has a tilapia fish pond, providing a full circle of ingredients for their dishes. The farm ensures that all the food served is of the highest quality, with a focus on organic farming practices that guarantee fresh, healthy meals. The commitment to sustainable, organic farming is a point of pride for the farm, as Garcia mentions that production is consistent and entirely organic, ensuring the freshest ingredients for each meal.

Supporting Local Communities Through Agritourism

The growth of Um-a Farm has not only enhanced the tourism appeal of Barangay Tadiangan but also significantly contributed to the local community. The increasing number of visitors has provided local residentswith new job opportunities and avenues for livelihood. Punong Barangay Feliciano Buyagao Alipda Jr. of Tadiangan notes that the success of the farm has sparked the growth of small businesses in the surrounding area, creating a positive economic ripple effect.

The farm has also brought greater recognition to the whole barangay, with Garcia pointing out that when visitors mention Um-a Farm, they are effectively promoting the entire community. This recognition helps draw more attention to Tadiangan, showcasing its agricultural beauty and potential as a tourist destination.

The increasing popularity of Um-a Farm has made it a valuable contributor to the development of the local economy, and it is becoming clear that agritourism is a key player in community development. As more visitors come to experience the farm, the economic opportunities for local residents continue to grow.

Agritourism as a Model for Sustainable Development

Um-a Farm stands as a prime example of how agritourism can lead to community growth and sustainability. By offering visitors a unique, hands-on experience, the farm has created a model where nature, food, and local culture intersect. This approach not only promotes environmental sustainability but also supports the livelihoods of those living in the area.

The success of Um-a Farm proves that agritourism can be a powerful tool for local development. As more people recognize the benefits of connecting with nature and supporting local farmers, the farm has positioned itself as a sustainable tourism destination that nurtures both the environment and the local economy.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Agritourism in Tuba

As Um-a Farm continues to grow and attract more visitors, its role in Tadiangan’s and Tuba’s tourism development will likely expand. With the increasing interest in agritourism in the region, Um-a Farm is well positioned to become a key player in the area’s tourism landscape. By continuing to promote sustainable farming practices and offering a personal, hands-on experience, the farm can set a benchmark for other agritourism destinations in the country.

The future of agritourism in Tadiangan looks bright, with more opportunities for local communities to benefit from the tourism sector while preserving their agricultural heritage. As Um-a Farm proves, blending agriculture, tourism, and community involvement can lead to both economic prosperity and sustainable growth.

Another success borne out of the unnecessary and economically crippling lockdown.

Coronavirus Lockdown: Toxic-Free Hospital Drive, Community Pantries Return, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

The pandemic has been over for years but pandemic conditions are now returning thanks to the war in Iran and skyrocketing full prices. Remember community pantries. They are back!

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/world/asia/community-pantries-return-philippines-amid-fuel-crisis-aiding-drivers-riders

The fuel price crisis and hyperinflation of goods and services in the Philippines must feel like the Covid-19 pandemic all over again to oblige the reappearance of a grassroots aid phenomenon.

The community initiative that became a nationwide movement and helped feed the Philippines during the pandemic lockdown five years ago was restarted by its founder, Ana Patricia Non, on the same spot in Quezon City on Thursday, March 26.

As public transportation workers held another nationwide transport strike, Non resurrected her Community Pantry phenomenon offering free food items to drivers and motorcycle delivery riders.

“As gas prices continue to rise and transport strikes continue, we are doing our best to support drivers. Still, give according to ability, take according to need. You can leave goods or any support for drivers,” Non posted on her Facebook page.

A cart full of items such as rice, vegetables, eggs, canned food, and others await drivers and riders who may take what they need for free.

By Thursday afternoon, donations quickly replaced those already taken by drivers who ply their routes nearby.

Mang Jose, a tricycle driver who complains of earning even less as petrol prices breached P100 per litre this week, took two eggs for himself and his wife, as well as a portion of cooking oil.

Joanna, a young office worker, meanwhile delivered three egg crates as her contribution to the effort.

What was the original initiative?

Non started the original Maginhawa Street Community Pantry on April 14, 2021 with a small bamboo cart loaded with some vegetables and rice.

The initiative by the young artist was her response to the growing poverty caused by severe lockdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic.

With the help of social media, over 200 similar pantries were put up all over Metro Manila, growing to thousands across the Philippines in succeeding weeks.

It helped feed millions of poor Filipinos who suffered loss of livelihoods and limited government aid during the Rodrigo Duterte administration.

The phenomenon embodied the Filipino practice of “bayanihan,” the core value of helping others in need.

Awards, threats

Non’s phenomenal movement earned recognition from various local and international socio-civic organizations and award-giving bodies.

She received the Ambassador's Woman of Courage Award from the US Embassy in 2022, the 2022 AirAsia Stellar Award, and was a 2022 Ten Outstanding Women in Nation’s Service recipient.

Other honors include the 2021 Golden Wheel Award by Rotary International and the 2nd Dragon Star Award by the ABS-CBN media network for her charitable act and community leadership.

Ironically, for all her achievements, Non was accused by the Philippine military and some government officials of being a part of the underground Communist movement for putting into practice “radical, if not socialist ideals.”

The accusations, however, backfired against her accusers as millions of Filipinos denounced the threats and defended her and the community pantry initiative.

As of Thursday afternoon, crates full of food items have surrounded the cart at the original site while other pantries in other parts of Metro Manila, Baguio City and Mindoro Island have also been started.

Restaurants have also pledged to operate soup kitchens in jeepney and tricycle terminals in Metro Manila while the transport strikes continue.

Remember jeepney drivers who couldn't earn a living? They are back too! Now they have to sell everything just to eat. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2202438/jeepney-driver-halts-trips-over-fuel-hike-its-like-pandemic-again

A jeepney driver has likened the current state of his livelihood to what it went through during the COVID-19 pandemic, as he has stopped plying his routes once again – this time due to the rising cost of fuel.

Reggie Manlapig, a 46-year-old jeepney driver from Calumpit, Bulacan, and a member of transport group Piston, shared this sentiment as he joined the rally led by the No to Oil Price Hike Coalition in Mendiola. 

“During the pandemic, us drivers had to sell our household items so we could feed our families,” Manlapig said in Filipino during a speech.

“There is no difference now. We no longer earn anything, so what happens is we sell our properties,” Manlapig added in Filipino.

The No to Oil Price Hike Coalition began its two-day transport strike on Thursday to protest against the oil price surge and call on the government to abolish the Oil Deregulation Law and remove the excise tax and value-added tax on fuel products. 

As the tension in the Middle East began almost a month ago, prices of diesel have shot up to almost P120 per liter in many areas in Metro Manila. 

Since then, Manlapig shared that he could not earn much income for his family, a contrast to his earnings of P700 to P800 per day before. 

“I’m not plying routes anymore. It’s like making a fool out of myself if I still do it,” Manlapid, speaking Filipino, told Inquirer in an interview. 

He also said that he is now supporting his family by selling their household items and taking on sideline construction jobs. He added that his older child, who has already graduated from college, is helping him with their everyday expenses. 

He said that has a younger child who is set to graduate from Senior High School. With this, he expressed his worry over graduation fees. 

He then said that he will go back to plying his routes once President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. heeds their calls.

Maybe they can get some food from the community pantry. 

The Bayanihan Bill is back as well.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2204720/bayanihan-3-not-purely-ayuda-as-crisis-different-from-pandemic-quimbo

The new version of the Bayanihan bill will differ from its two predecessors because the current fuel price crisis is unlike the COVID-19 pandemic, which required total lockdowns, Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo said on Tuesday.

During an online press briefing, Quimbo clarified that under House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III’s vision, Bayanihan 3 will also include reforms to streamline future crisis response, with direct financial aid accounting for only 15 percent of the entire package.

“Okay, so I want to create a clear dichotomy between what happened during the pandemic and today.  So the pandemic was really worse as far as we are concerned, because the situation was so indeterminable; we don’t know if there will be medicines to address the issue, whether there will be vaccines, and how long the situation will last. So practically, the entire economy went to a halt,” Quimbo told reporters.

“People cannot go out, and it really necessitated a massive aid program. So we have a different context now […] I do not want to go ahead, but if we’re talking about aid, this is really just one part of Bayanihan 3 for lack of a better term, so it cannot just be ayuda-centric. In fact, ayuda, as far as what the speaker wants, is not even 15 percent of the entire package that he wants,” he added.

According to Quimbo, the main purpose of the financial assistance is to support hard-hit industries without causing inflation in other basic commodities that depend on fuel for transportation.

“But definitely the purpose here is trying to address sectors that will practically might not survive — like transportation — and so that is where we will first give aid.  Because that is the epicenter of the crisis, because if costs increase, they cannot make trips, and the price of goods will increase,” he explained.

“So we want to have intervention such that we are able to, kumbaga, I don’t want to sound too technical or heartless, but really the direction is to make sure that whatever aid we do is for the purpose of making sure that prices don’t spiral,” he added.

Quimbo said the super committee formed by the House leadership, consisting of 13 panels, will need to consult government offices like the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to determine which beneficiaries should receive aid.

“So number one, who will receive the aid?  We will have to consult with our economic managers first, as well as the DSWD. Second, we need to know what distribution system is available, and then third, how much money is available,” he said.

“That will be the direction of the ayuda (aid) program, addressing the areas that would stop, or at least assuage the increase in the prices of goods and commodities,” he added.

Bayanihan bills were crafted and enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving former President Rodrigo Duterte the powers to “reprogram, reallocate, and realign” any appropriation in the 2020 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The country then saw massive aid distribution programs as much of the labor sector was paralyzed due to quarantine and distancing protocols, leading to suspended projects from realignments.

However, in the current crisis, movement is not restricted by health concerns but by high fuel costs. Diesel prices recently reached around P140 per liter after a fourth consecutive week of increases, while gasoline now ranges from P95 to P105 per liter.

Quimbo earlier said the House super committee will likely form a new version of the Bayanihan bills used during the COVID-19 pandemic, but without resorting to loans.

While nothing has been finalized, Quimbo, chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means, said the direction points toward a third version of the Bayanihan bill. He noted, however, that funding is sufficient and loans are not being considered.

When asked whether this version of the Bayanihan bill would allow President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to realign items in the 2026 GAA, Quimbo said nothing is certain yet.

Quimbo also clarified that the third Bayanihan bill will address the tedious process of delivering financial assistance to the people.

According to the Marikina solon, not all problems during crises involve finding funding sources; issues also arise once funds are available, such as determining qualified beneficiaries and how assistance will be disbursed.

He noted that the country’s lack of a system for transferring aid from a department or government unit to beneficiaries should serve as a wake-up call.

Aside from the Bayanihan bill, the House has already approved a measure suspending the collection of excise taxes on fuel, which Marcos signed on March 25.

However, the earliest date that excise taxes could be suspended is on April 12, as the measure states that Marcos can only suspend excise taxes if the economic cluster and the energy secretary recommend it once the average Dubai crude oil price, based on the Mean of Platts Singapore, exceeds US$80 per barrel for one month.

What's next? A total shut down of the economy due to a lack of fuel?

Hospitals in the Philippines are rather disgusting. Apparently hospital workers did not notice this until the pandemic. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1271839

The Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management (HCWM) Project is pushing for ‘toxics-free hospitals’ to create safer, more sustainable healthcare facilities.

During a roadshow at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) in this city on Thursday, HCWM introduced its “Nurse Susie” mascot to promote proper waste segregation and encourage healthcare workers, patients, and visitors to use reusable alternatives.

The campaign is part of the Toxics-Free Hospitals initiative, aimed at addressing the growing volume of hospital waste, particularly plastics, and improving healthcare waste management systems.

According to Thony Dizon, advocacy and campaign officer of BAN Toxics Philippines, the initiative was strengthened following challenges observed during the pandemic.

BAN Toxics Philippines is a non-government organization advocating for sound chemicals and waste management practices and environmental justice.

“We saw during the pandemic that hospitals—both public and private—were overwhelmed with piles of waste. This project is being implemented to ensure that we are better prepared for similar situations and that healthcare waste is properly managed,” Dizon said.

He also underscored the importance of proper waste handling and segregation inside healthcare facilities.

“There are two types of waste generated in hospitals—medical or infectious waste and solid waste. Infectious waste must be properly treated before disposal because it poses serious health risks, while solid waste should be segregated according to the law and supported by policies such as the ban on single-use plastics,” he said.

In EVMC, the initial audit report revealed that plastics account for 78 percent of the total waste composition — 54 percent from infectious waste, indicating widespread use of medical textiles, sanitary products, and other medical plastics in patient-care areas, and 24 percent from general or non-hazardous waste.

Data shows that even non-clinical areas are significant contributors to plastic waste in the region’s largest hospital. These include plastic foodware and other single-use plastics such as 'labo' bags and sachets.

Dizon said the initiative is expected to expand nationwide to ensure safer environments for patients and health workers.

“It has the potential to expand. We are already talking to other regional hospitals, not only in Luzon and the Visayas, but also in Mindanao because we have a lot of hospitals and healthcare facilities there that are big and also need this kind of project,” he said.

The “Nurse Susie” Roadshow at EVMC is now in its second phase and is part of the Toxics-Free Hospitals Campaign of the HCWM Project.

The roadshow began last week at the Quirino Memorial Medical Center and will continue at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center in April.

This shouldn't even be an issue!  Hospitals should be the gold standard of cleanliness.  But this is the Philippines after all. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: Supply Chain Resilience, Bhutan PM, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

Preisdent Marcos has sat down with the Prime Minister of Bhutan to seek enhanced ties across several sectors. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1271445

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on Thursday expressed commitment to elevating Manila and Thimphu’s tourism, trade, investment and cultural relations.

The commitment was made during their first historic meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement.

During the meeting, Marcos emphasized the need for representation for non-resident ambassadors between the Philippines and Bhutan to enhance the two nations’ ties.

“President Marcos likewise stressed that after the pandemic, there is a realization of the need to forge new partnerships with friends around the world, not only in tourism and cultural exchange, but also in people-to-people, trade, and investment,” the PCO said.

Marcos also expressed elation over the present engagement between the two countries through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for skills training and upskilling of workers.

The Bhutan Prime Minister, who is visiting Manila to attend the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Asia Pacific Food Systems Forum (APFSF) 2026 this March, requested a courtesy call on Marcos on the sidelines of the event.

The Bhutanese leader’s visit marks the first since the formal establishment of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Bhutan on Oct. 6, 2025.

The PCO said the meeting between the two leaders marks an important milestone to step up cooperation on priority areas of bilateral and broader cooperation.

The Philippines has been exporting commodities to Bhutan, including electronic products, machinery and transport equipment, as well as woodcrafts and furniture.

Its top import commodities from Bhutan, on the other hand, are wine, fresh grapes and virgin olive oil.

In terms of tourism, the Philippines welcomed 335 Bhutanese tourists as of Nov. 2025 and 380 travelers in 2024.

As for the Filipino diaspora in Bhutan, available information indicates that Filipinos work there as hotel managers.

Marcos says the pandemic made him realize the country needs to seek out new partnerships around the world. 

The Philippines also needs a stronger supply chain. 

https://www.unitednews.net.ph/en/article.php?post=122045

Two leading United States and Southeast Asian business groups are pushing to advance the supply chain resilience agenda under the Philippines’ chairship of the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

At a high-level roundtable gathering of senior officials and industry leaders on Wednesday, the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council Philippines (ASEAN-BAC Philippines) highlighted the mounting pressures on Southeast Asian supply chains arising from geopolitical tensions, climate disruptions and structural inefficiencies in trade and logistics systems.

“ASEAN’s supply chains are being tested by a convergence of external shocks and structural constraints. Like the COVID-19 pandemic, current geopolitical tensions underscore how quickly disruptions can ripple across trade, energy, and logistics systems,” USABC Philippine Chief Representative Herminio Bagro said.

Bagro said as a leading investors group in the region, USABC wants to see practical solutions, greater policy transparency, stronger public-private coordination and more efficient customs systems elevated by ASEAN this year.

During the discussions, illicit trade emerged as a key concern, with business leaders noting that fragmented enforcement regimes and uneven regulatory capacity continue to enable the proliferation of counterfeit and smuggled goods.

Among the recommendations outlined were regulatory guidance to reduce uncertainty for investors and operators, and deeper public-private coordination to mitigate energy price volatility and supply chain disruptions.

Also pushed were streamlined customs, logistics and regulatory approvals to improve efficiency and reduce trade frictions; and the removal of unnecessary cross-border bans to ease regional supply chains.

“Supply chain resilience and sustainability are central to ASEAN’s long-term competitiveness,” ASEAN-BAC Philippines senior adviser Gil Gonzales said.

“This roundtable reflects our commitment to ensuring that private sector solutions are translated into concrete chairship deliverables that strengthen regional integration and economic stability,” he added.

The roundtable is the third of its kind, following the convening of USABC and ASEAN-BAC dialogues centered on health care, and sustainability and food security.

The USABC and ASEAN-BAC Philippines said these meetings will shape a coherent private sector agenda designed to support the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairship.

At a separate forum on Thursday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said the Philippines is committed to driving an ambitious ASEAN economic agenda to secure policies that will assist the bloc achieve its goal of becoming the fourth largest economy despite global economic shocks affecting the region.

"Resilience is not just about weathering the storm; it is about building the capacity to thrive within it. It is about being agile enough to pivot when traditional markets close, and bold enough to innovate when the status quo is dampened," she said.

Of course the pandemic revealed how fragile the supply chain really is. One break in the link and inflation goes hog wild. 

Japanese restaurant Manmaru opened exactly one year before the pandemic. And during the pandemic the business was able to keep afloat due to deliveries. 

https://www.philstar.com/business/2026/03/16/2514520/burgers-and-fries-tempura-and-sushi/amp/

Kristopher Yang, the son of George Yang – the tycoon who secured the franchise of the famous McDonald’s brand and brought it to the Philippines – has reportedly consolidated control and local franchise ownership of the popular Manmaru Japanese Izakaya brand that first gained a strong consumer base at the Makati Cinema Square, right across the Little Tokyo restaurant enclave along Pasong Tamo.

The popularity of Manmaru, which opened in March 2019, was such that even during the pandemic, it helped keep the Japanese restaurants in the area popular for takeouts, and has even spurred the opening of new reasonably priced Japanese eateries in the area after the pandemic.

The original Manmaru Izakaya was established by Osaka-based Eat Factory Holdings Co., Ltd.

Due to its popularity and reasonable prices, in September 2024, a second Manmaru Japanese Izakaya branch opened along Tomas Morato St. in Quezon City in partnership with the Yang family.

And just last year, in November, a third branch opened in BF Homes in Parañaque.

They continue to expand in another showing of a local business weathering the pandemic and its aftermath. 

The nominations for the 2026 Ateneo Art Awards - Purita Kalaw - Ledesma Prizes in Art Criticism are here. The theme is "Futurities."

https://www.ateneo.edu/news/2026/03/aaa-pkl-call-for-entries-2026

Co-presented with the Kalaw-Ledesma Foundation, Inc., the Ateneo Art Gallery is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Ateneo Art Awards  Purita Kalaw-Ledesma Prizes in Art Criticism. On its 13th year, the prize welcomes entries on the theme of “Futurities.”

The Purita Kalaw-Ledesma Prizes in Art Criticism will have English and Filipino categories. A panel of jurors will shortlist a maximum of six (6) writers from each category. From this shortlist, winners will be selected by the editors of partner publications. Read the full mechanics at https://go.ateneo.net/PKL2026Mechanics.

Submit entries at https://go.ateneo.net/PKL2026Entry. Submissions will be accepted until 30 JUNE 2026, Tuesday, 11:59 pm. 

About the theme

“We have been through a war but very few of our painters seem to know it.” In 1950, Purita Kalaw-Ledesma said this when asked by columnist IP Soliongco about her thoughts on genre landscape paintings. The Second World War had ended only five years earlier. 

For us in the present, six years ago marked the first year of facing the global pandemic. Recently, we commemorated the 40th anniversary of the People Power Revolution, which reshaped Philippine governance through collective action. Today, not only in this country but around the world, we continue to face unrest and war, as well as urgent debates about generative AI that unsettle our sense of humanity and more. Alongside persists the effort simply to survive. 

With all these, can we still imagine futurities—a plurality of possible futures—amid what is unfolding in the present? 

Art has long served as humanity’s instrument to imagine. In an undated article, “Art and the Nation,” from PKL Scrapbook Vol. 2 (c. 1950–1952), written in the context of the Art Association of the Philippines fostering art “during times of storm and stress,” the author reflects: 

“It is to [poets and artists] that we turn when everything seems dark. [...] Through their works, whether it is a painting or a poem, they afford the rest of us a glimpse of that beauty and perfection which can only belong to a future world.” 

Perhaps the task today is not to picture beautiful or perfect futurities, but to remain capable of imagining at all.

War, people power, global pandemic! Can art show us the way to a beautiful future or is it all too bleak to behold?

Coronavirus Lockdown: Germany House, Sunflowers, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

The house in which Jose Rizal finished his novel Noli Me Tangere has been siting idle since the pandemic.  Now a member of the House of Representatives has bought it. 

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/artandculture/980109/leviste-buys-germany-house-where-jose-rizal-completed-noli-me-tangere/story/

Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste has purchased the house in Wilhelmsfeld, Germany where national hero Jose Rizal completed his famed novel “Noli Me Tangere.” 

A post on his Facebook page said the lawmaker purchased the house to preserve the site. 

(The goal of buying and preserving this house is to maintain a historical site where the ideas that helped spark the Philippine Revolution and shape the Filipino nation were born.) 

According to the lawmaker’s office, Leviste's mother Senator Loren Legarda asked him to purchase the home, where Rizal lived while studying ophthalmology at the University of Heidelberg. The house had served as a home to pastors since 1886, but hasn’t been in use since the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(After the COVID-19 pandemic, the house was no longer being used, which is why it was brought to the attention of Cong. Leandro’s mother, Senator Loren Legarda. Because no one else was going to buy the house to preserve it, Sen. Loren suggested to Cong. Leandro that he buy it, at no cost to the government, and turn it into a museum open to all Filipinos and foreign visitors in Wilhelmsfeld to understand the life and works of Rizal.) 

Leviste held a signing ceremony last week, along with Dr. Franz Hack Ullmer, the great-grandson of Pastor Karl Ullmer, who was Rizal’s friend.

Also present at the signing were representatives of the Protestant church that owned the house; Dr. Tobias Dangel, the Mayor of Wilhelmsfeld; and Herbert Ehses, the Germany chapter commander of the Knights of Rizal.

(Dr. Ullmer also gave Cong. Leandro a table similar to the one Rizal used when writing Noli Me Tangere, along with other items from the Ullmer family’s Rizal collection.)

It will be interesting to have a museum about the Philippine Revolution thousands of miles away from the Philippines. 

In 2020 one farmer got the idea to open up his sunflower farm to tourists. The pandemic shut it down quick but now tourism is blossoming. 

https://pia.gov.ph/news/sunflowers-to-sustainable-tourism-shilan-blossoms-into-community-tourism-village/

Barangay Shilan in La Trinidad, Benguet is one of the emerging eco-tourism destinations in the region. It promotes experiential and community-based tourism – a tourism that is not only for sightseeing but empowering the community.

One of the attractions here is DarJane’s Sunflower Farm, which start was not easy and intended to be.

Farm owner Mario Mateo narrated that he planted more than 10,000 sunflowers in 1,500 square-meter lot but did not bloom in time for Valentine’s Day in 2020. Thinking of how to cope up with their expenses in growing the flowers, they came up with an idea to open the farm to visitors for sunflower viewing.

Visitors flocked to the place providing employment for some of the residents. It also opened an opportunity for farmers and small business owners to sell their products to the visitors.

Unfortunately, lockdown was implemented in mid-March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the slack of activities, Mateo devoted his time improving the farm.

After the pandemic, DarJane’s Sunflower Farm reopened but not many people went to the area.

Tourism boom with government assistance

With the help of various government agencies, hope begun to bloom again on the farm, which is just 12 kilometers away from Baguio City.

Mateo and his daughter attended various trainings by the Department of Trade and Industry, which inspired them to develop their unique products- sunflower cake and sunflower butter. They also introduced sun coffee or coffee infused with sunflower that is really perfect for the cool climate of Benguet.

Through a loan from the Small Business Corporation, an attached agency of the DTI, Mateo plans to enhance the experiences on their farm. This includes the establishment of an infinity pool and a glass walk.

“We are grateful to the DTI for their great help in promotions and daytoy seminars, assistance with the assistance, free stickers, packaging and endorsements from the SB Corps,” said Mateo.

The DTI continues to provide assistance to small business owners who need support. The agency has established Negosyo Centers where micro, small, and medium enterprises can access assistance and guidance.

“Number 1 biggest banner we have is the Negosyo Center wherein they conduct series of trainings. If there is a need in the community, they can provide a Negosyo center,” said Sara Ubfan of DTI Baguio-Benguet.

DarJane’s Farm has also partnered with the Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, and expected to start accepting students taking courses in organic agriculture, production programming, and barista this March or April.

Community tourism village

After joining a tour organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT), Mateo envisioned a broader dream, one that extended beyond his own farm but for the entire community. Inspired by his experience, he conceptualized the Shilan Community Tourism Village, a tourism for the community.

“There are natural sites here, they can be retouched and connected and transformed. We have done it.”

Before the establishment of the tourism village, there were consultations made and the Shilan Tour Guides Association was organized.

Aside from DarJanes, village is also home to Garden nen Ines and Martin’s Hobbit House, two waterfalls and a historic cave that played a role during World War II, and other attractions. Various community products such as coffee and flowers, arts and crafts are also showcased and promoted here.

Every visitor brings economic opportunities for the community. Aside from the community members who serve as tour guides, it also helps in generating income for those who serve as garage attendants as well as in selling various community products. The tourism village currently has more than 200 beneficiaries.

With the cooperation and unity of the community, the Shilan Community Tourism Village won second place in the DOT’s Search for Best Tourism Village in 2024.

It also received the Tourism Village Builders Award from the Benguet provincial government. The cash prize was poured into the further development of the tourism village.

“We are grateful because they noticed that Shilan is another tourist destination. That’s why we can show you that Shilan is one of the best places to visit.”

Tourism for the community

DOT-Cordillera Regional Director Jovita Ganongan said that the search for the best tourism village is part of their recovery plans after the pandemic. She said it is to strengthen tourism villages, especially in the Cordillera.

“It’s really more of organizing tourism villages to organize and to develop their tourism, a tourism that is sustainable, responsible, participatory, and resilient,” Ganongan said.

Mateo and the community proved that with genuine concern, initiative, and strong support from the government, hope and growth in life can flourish, especially in communities that are united.

Like a sunflower facing the sun to grow and bloom, success is achieved when challenges are faced together for a brighter tomorrow.

With help from the government he not only grew his farm as a tourist spot but also the whole community. That is quite a pandemic recovery story. 

Unemployment numbers are looking like 2022 again. 

https://business.inquirer.net/579180/unemployment-rate-jumps-to-pandemic-era-high-of-5-8

Philippine unemployment soared to a pandemic-era high of 5.8 percent in January, with 2.96 million Filipinos out of work. The number went up from 2.26 million in December, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday.

The joblessness rate also rose from the 4.4 percent recorded in December, marking the highest level since June 2022 when it stood at 6.03 percent.

This came as the labor force participation rate slipped to 62.3 percent, equivalent to 50.89 million Filipinos. This was 64.4 percent or 51.69 million in December.

Measures of job quality also deteriorated. About 6.35 million employed Filipinos said they were seeking additional work or longer hours to boost their income. This was a sharp increase from 3.93 million in December.

This pushed the underemployment rate to 13.2 percent from 8 percent.

Meanwhile, the employment rate fell to 94.2 percent, equivalent to 47.94 million Filipinos with jobs. This came from 95.6 percent or 49.43 million in December.

Of course it has nothing to do with a virus but of course history does rhyme even if it doesn't repeat. 

Delta airlines shut down shop during the pandemic and is now eyeing a comeback.

https://insiderph.com/delta-eyes-manila-comeback-after-pandemic-exit-as-competition-heats-up-on-us-routes

Delta said it intends to launch daily nonstop Los Angeles–Manila flights by summer 2027 using Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

Before suspending its Philippine service in 2021 during the pandemic, Delta served Manila via Tokyo or Seoul. 

The plan surfaced in a filing with the US Department of Transportation tied to taipan Lucio Tan's Philippine Airlines’ application to launch Manila–Chicago service. It was earlier reported by the Manila Bulletin newspaper. 

Delta’s planned return would add to growing competition on US–Manila routes, where United Airlines already operates multiple nonstop services linking the Philippine capital with key US gateways.

For Philippine Airlines, which has long dominated the Manila–US corridor among Philippine carriers, the potential entry of another US airline could intensify competition for passengers traveling between the two countries.

The US–Philippines market is one of the largest long-haul travel corridors for the country, supported by a large Filipino diaspora in North America as well as strong tourism and business travel demand.

Delta said it does not oppose PAL’s Chicago route request in principle but urged regulators to defer action on the application until US carriers are assured of commercially viable airport access in Manila.

The airline argued that US carriers continue to face constraints securing slots, gates, and related airport infrastructure at Manila, which are necessary to launch and sustain nonstop services.

At the same time, Philippine carriers have expanded their presence in the US market through new routes and increased frequencies, including the launch of Manila–Seattle nonstop service.

Delta emphasized it is not seeking to block PAL’s Chicago route, but is asking regulators to delay approval until the Philippine government provides assurances that US airlines will have access to the slots and infrastructure needed to operate Manila flights on commercially viable terms.

The matter was disclosed in a document where Delta said the proposed Manila-Chicago route by PAL should be delayed until the Philippine government can assure access to American air carriers who provide non-stop service.