Philippine Flood Control Scandal Highlights Urgent Need for Governance in Family Businesses

The Philippines has recently been shaken by revelations of extensive corruption within flood control initiatives, where kickbacks, inflated contracts, and even nonexistent projects diverted public funds meant to safeguard communities. At the core of this scandal lies a significant lack of accountability and oversight, demonstrating how unchecked power can foster self-interest at the expense of public welfare. This incident serves as a stark warning for family-run businesses. Much like governments plagued by corruption, family enterprises that inherit wealth without establishing robust governance mechanisms are vulnerable to similar abuses. In both settings, the absence of transparency and accountability can allow individuals to prioritize personal gain over collective interests. **Parallels in Family Business Governance** In many family businesses, the founder wields ultimate decision-making power, with their vision often excusing unilateral actions. However, once the founder is no longer present, power vacuums may lead to self-serving behavior by successors. Without sound governance, successors might emulate authoritarian leadership without the accompanying foresight or experience. Similar to corrupt officials demanding kickbacks in the flood control scandal, some family members may exploit their positions, awarding favorable contracts to allies, misdirecting funds, or engaging in dubious partnerships. Such environments, lacking clear rules, inevitably breed abuse, mistrust, and conflict. **Illustrative Case: The S Family Conglomerate** A notable example involves the S family, proprietors of a diverse enterprise in real estate and manufacturing. Following the passing of the family patriarch, his three children inherited shares equally. The eldest son, acting as CEO, covertly favored a construction company partly owned by him for all projects. These contracts were routinely overpriced with unusually high profit margins. Despite steady revenues, dividends decreased over time. An external audit, initiated by a minority shareholder relative, revealed that millions had been siphoned off through these inflated agreements. The fallout was severe: litigation erupted, family members ceased communication, and one faction divested their shares, feeling betrayed. The absence of proper oversight enabled one individual to unjustly benefit while others were kept uninformed. **The Consequences of Silence** Such scenarios are unfortunately common in many Asian family businesses, where a strong emphasis on familial loyalty deters confrontation. Relatives may privately question dubious practices but avoid raising issues to preserve the family’s reputation. This silence effectively becomes complicity. Just as the flood control scandal demonstrates how billions can be lost through passive acceptance, family enterprises risk their legacies when self-enrichment goes unchecked. The repercussions extend beyond finances, causing fractured relationships, damaged reputations, and the erosion of shared goals. Ultimately, the family business may transform from a unifying legacy into a source of division. **Establishing Essential Governance Mechanisms** The key takeaway is that goodwill alone is insufficient. Families must implement clear structures to deter mismanagement. Recommended measures include: * A Family Constitution articulating shared values, vision, and engagement guidelines. * A Family Council providing a forum for transparent discussion and resolution of grievances. * A Shareholder Agreement safeguarding minority interests and outlining transaction procedures. * An Independent Board to ensure decisions prioritize the enterprise’s long-term sustainability. While these frameworks cannot eliminate conflict entirely, they help manage disputes fairly and prevent any single individual from commandeering the business for personal advantage. **A Call for Reflection** The flood control corruption case reveals how easily systems collapse when leaders treat power as an entitlement to personal enrichment. Family enterprises must heed this lesson. If government institutions—with their formal controls—can succumb to corruption, family businesses without similar checks are even more at risk. Ultimately, in the absence of accountability, family wealth dwindles, trust disintegrates, and the once proud legacy is endangered. (The upcoming second part will explore the costs associated with conflicts of interest within family enterprises.)

South Cotabato Governor Facilitates Dialogue Between Dole Philippines and Local Stakeholders

South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, Jr. convened a dialogue on Monday involving Dole Philippines, Inc. (Dolefil), a major pineapple producer and exporter, alongside local stakeholders. During the meeting, Governor Tamayo emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to resolving issues faced by landowners, workers, and the company’s management. He reaffirmed the priority of protecting the welfare and security of all South Cotabato residents, stating, \"In matters concerning Dolefil, the interests and safety of every South Cotabateño remain our foremost concern and we strive to ensure their protection.\" Earlier, the governor publicly expressed concern after reports emerged that Dolefil had halted hiring from the local workforce, opting instead to recruit employees from other provinces. This action prompted the provincial government to seek solutions that balance the company’s operational needs with the community’s economic well-being.

Quezon City Honors Chess Grandmaster Rogelio Antonio Jr. for International Triumphs

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte recently met with esteemed chess Grandmaster Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. during his visit to the city, where he received special recognition from the City Council. Antonio was lauded for his remarkable achievements, including consecutive victories at the 23rd ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships in Malaysia, the Melbourne International Open Rapid Chess Championship in Australia, and the Battle of Champions held in Ozamis City. The City Council formally commended Antonio for his outstanding performance on the international stage. Looking ahead, Antonio is preparing to represent the country in two major upcoming tournaments: the 33rd FIDE World Senior Chess Championships in Gallipoli, Italy, and the III Open Internacional de Ajedrez in Alicante, Spain. Mayor Belmonte expressed her support and encouragement, stating, \"Your triumphs bring great pride not only to the nation but also to Quezon City. We wish you continued success in your future competitions.\"

ICTSI Intercollegiate Golf Finals Cut to 36 Holes Amid Typhoon Impact

LIPA, Batangas — The final stage of the inaugural ICTSI Intercollegiate Tour (IIT) has been reduced to a 36-hole event, transforming the originally lengthy contest into a rapid and high-pressure showdown. The adjusted format underscores the necessity for strong starts and unwavering mental focus throughout the concluding rounds. Scheduled to commence Wednesday at the Summit Point Golf and Country Club, the finals face challenging course conditions following significant rainfall caused by Typhoon Nando on Tuesday, which led to the cancellation of the initial round. The tournament organizers, Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., prioritized player safety and the quality of play in making this decision. Julia Lua of La Salle-I, one of the top contenders, supported the call, stating, \"It was a fair decision because safety always comes first. It means the next two days will be tougher because every round counts now. There\'s really no room for mistakes.\" Addie Manhit of UP-1, a previous winner at Caliraya Springs and a strong competitor this season, welcomed the delay due to a scheduling conflict with an academic test on Tuesday morning. \"I\'m quite relieved because I had a test scheduled Tuesday morning. I might have missed a few holes if the first round had gone ahead,\" she said. \"Given the strong rains, I\'m glad the organizers made the call – the course would\'ve been a lot tougher.\" Despite the condensed schedule, the intensity of the competition remains high. The 7:25 a.m. flight features a notable duel between leg victors Julia Lua and Shane Tan of Ateneo-2, along with UP-1\'s Katrisse Datoc and CSB-1\'s Olivia Bermudo, blending individual aspirations with team objectives. Following closely at 7:35 a.m. are contenders Addie Manhit, CSB-1\'s Natasha Bantug, Ateneo-2\'s Tatiana Ong, and La Salle-1\'s Stacey Chan, making for another fiercely contested grouping. Lua emphasized her approach: \"My focus is playing my own game and enjoying the process. When I\'m relaxed and having fun, that\'s when I play my best golf. Individually, we\'ll stick to what works for us, and as a team, our shared goal is to finish on the podium. Given the conditions, it\'s important to stay patient and focused. We just have to adapt to whatever challenges the course presents and trust our preparation.\" Manhit highlighted the importance of consistency and precision, saying, \"I\'ve been practicing to keep my shots straight and controlled. Our goal – individually and as a team – is to play the best golf we can for UP. Katrisse and I will give it our all, and hopefully, it will be enough to get UP on the podium.\" She also noted the challenges posed by the wet course and changing winds, explaining, \"I have to keep my shots on the fairway to avoid plugged or lost balls. I\'ll be more observant of wind direction and green speed – those can make or break every shot.\" The finals are expected to deliver gripping competition, with student-athletes demonstrating skill and determination as they compete for both individual titles and team championships. The IIT, co-developed by the Pilipinas Golf Tour, Inc. and the Philippine Golf Foundation, aims to enhance organized competitive golf in the Philippines, offering World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points to provide players with international exposure. This platform offers student-athletes a valuable pathway toward global recognition, scholarships, and professional prospects. In the men\'s category, the tournament remains wide open, with Summit Point\'s course demanding diverse strategies. Among the favorites are Sean Granada of CSB-1, who won the Splendido Taal leg, La Salle-1\'s Zachary Castro, top finisher at Pradera Verde, along with notable contenders Schmuel Tan (Ateneo-1), Lucas Aldeguer (La Salle-2), Rans Balay-odao (University of the Cordilleras), and Emilio Carpio (UP-1). Further competitors include Emilio Curran (Ateneo-1), Jose Lorenzo Flores and Miguel Fusilero (La Salle-1), David Guangco (CSB-1), Ricardo Joson (Ateneo-2), Ferdinand Lagman and Robin See (La Salle-3), and Arvin Ong (La Salle-2). The team competition adds another dimension to the finals. The men\'s team title is being contested by La Salle-1, Ateneo-1, CSB-1, La Salle-2, UP-2, La Salle-3, and Ateneo-2, while the women\'s team championship involves CSB-1, La Salle-1, UP-1, La Salle-2, Ateneo-2, and La Salle-3. As the IIT concludes, it embodies a pivotal moment in Philippine collegiate golf, spotlighting emerging talents and fostering the sport\'s development through structured competition and enhanced opportunities.

Patrick Cantlay Addresses Ryder Cup Hat Controversy Amid Increased Player Payouts

Patrick Cantlay remained consistent in his explanation about the Ryder Cup headgear issue during a press conference held Tuesday at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York. Contrary to reports from 2023 suggesting Cantlay avoided wearing the official team hat in Rome as a protest over lack of compensation, Cantlay insisted, "Like I\'ve said a million times, the hat didn\'t fit last year, and this year we worked with them to make sure we had one, and we got one, so we\'re good." Despite chants from European fans mocking him with "Hats off for your bank account," Cantlay is recognized as a pivotal figure in the recent initiative to boost player earnings by the PGA of America. While European team members receive no payment for participating in the Ryder Cup, U.S. players and captains had traditionally been awarded $200,000 for charity since 1999. However, the PGA of America has increased individual payouts to $500,000, dividing the sum into $300,000 for charity and a $200,000 personal stipend. U.S. captain Keegan Bradley explained on Monday, "The PGA of America came to me, they wanted to bring the Ryder Cup into the present day. The charity dollars hadn\'t changed since 1999 and they asked me to sort of shepherd their way into making it into 2025." Bradley, along with World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, intends to donate their entire $500,000 allocations to charitable causes. Scheffler expressed, "We have something planned for the money that we\'ll be receiving. I think it\'s a really cool thing that the PGA of America has empowered us to do. I have a deep passion for the city of Dallas, I have a deep passion for the organizations that we support at home, and I\'m excited to be able to take this money and be able to do some good in our local community." Xander Schauffele, whose father publicly called for player compensation and accused the PGA of America of "strong-arm tactics" in 2023, is also donating his full stipend. Schauffele stated, "I think sort of being a product of the PGA Tour, if there\'s one thing besides competing at a high level that\'s taught me, it\'s to sort of have a positive impact on the areas that you\'re in, and I don\'t see why this would be any different. There\'s a lot of pride that comes into playing in one of these, and yes, we\'re happy to get paid for this, and yes, I plan on donating it. It\'s something that selfishly will make me feel good about what I do." Cantlay himself confirmed that his stipend is going toward charitable organizations, including the First Responders Children\'s Foundation, St. Jude, and the SCPGA Junior Tour in California. "If I can give back to organizations that have helped make me who I am today, hopefully someone growing up in Southern California gets that opportunity and can follow their dreams as well," he remarked. When questioned about the perception that European players show greater commitment to the Ryder Cup because they participate without pay—a viewpoint previously suggested by European captain Luke Donald—Cantlay dismissed it as distraction. "I think this event is very good at generating lots of noise, and that\'s not going to help any of us put points on the board," he stated. "I think we need to put 100 percent of our focus on playing the best golf we can and let the noise be exactly what it is, just noise."

DigiPlus Accelerates Expansion into South Africa’s Online Gaming Market

Digital entertainment firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is progressing with its international expansion by filing license applications with South Africa’s Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB). This move is a key step in the company’s strategy to enter what is considered one of the most promising regulated online gaming markets globally. The WCGRB is recognized for its transparency and readiness in digital regulation, making it a preferred jurisdiction for global operators. Eusebio Tanco, chairman of DigiPlus, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, \"The submission of our online gaming license application in South Africa represents a crucial milestone in DigiPlus’ global expansion. We bring our extensive experience in innovation, responsible gaming, player protection, and tailored game localization to one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.\" DigiPlus, the company behind popular platforms such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, has applied for three separate operator licenses in South Africa: a national manufacturer license, a bookmaker license, and a bookmaker premises license. South Africa is not only identified by DigiPlus as the largest online gaming market in Africa but also serves as a strategic portal to the continent’s broader digital future. The company’s license application in South Africa, coupled with its recent launch in Brazil, reflects its ambition to become a leading digital entertainment provider across emerging markets worldwide. DigiPlus entered the Brazilian market on September 22 with its international brand GamePlus, and plans to introduce BingoPlus there in 2026. Domestically, DigiPlus has innovated in player protection by introducing the Philippines’ first surety bond program for online gaming users in collaboration with Philippine First Insurance Co. Inc. This initiative provides players with financial safeguards, protecting their gaming wallets and balances up to PHP 1 million without requiring them to purchase separate insurance policies.

Philippine Office Developers Urged to Enhance Spaces and Offer Incentives Amid Return to Traditional Workplaces

According to Colliers Philippines, office developers in the country must upgrade their facilities and introduce leasing incentives to keep pace with the increasing shift back to conventional office environments. In its recent Survey Flash Report, the consultancy revealed that 60% of employees are now working onsite, a rise from 54% reported late last year. Hybrid work arrangements remain prevalent, with 40% of respondents adopting a mix of remote and office work, while only 4% continue to work fully from home. Colliers emphasized the strategic importance of this period for landlords, stating, \"Now is an opportune time for office landlords to aggressively promote their development pipelines, especially in Metro Manila submarkets poised to become landlord's markets within the next 12 to 24 months.\" The report also highlighted a trend of office space consolidation among major tenants, opening opportunities in areas like Makati central business district (CBD) and Fort Bonifacio. These locations have large, vacated office spaces that developers can target towards outsourcing companies and large-scale traditional occupiers. Regarding expansion plans, the Makati CBD remains the preferred area, chosen by 33% of prospective tenants, followed by Fort Bonifacio at 23%. Other favored locations include the Bay Area and Quezon City (each at 12%), Alabang (11%), and the Ortigas CBD (10%). When deciding on office leases, 56% of respondents identified lower base rents as the most attractive concession. Other sought-after incentives include rent-free periods for fit-outs (17%), fit-out allowances (15%), and no or postponed rent escalation (12%). In the first half of this year, over half of office transactions in Metro Manila were expansions, driven by outsourcing companies, flexible workspace operators, logistics firms, banks, financial services, and IT companies, primarily in Fort Bonifacio, Makati, and the Ortigas CBDs. Colliers encouraged tenants to leverage the current market environment to negotiate favorable lease conditions, while advising landlords to continually improve their properties' appeal and maintain attractive concession offers to remain competitive in a tenant-driven market. The survey included feedback from roughly 200 participants, comprising real estate developers, property equity analysts, brokers, and investors interviewed between July 30 and 31.

Cebu Pacific Launches Seat Sale for Visayas, Mindanao, and Select International Routes

Cebu Pacific has unveiled a seat sale targeting travelers from Visayas and Mindanao, as well as those flying on its broader domestic and select international routes. According to a recent statement, bookings made between September 24 and 30, 2025, will feature one-way base fares starting at just P88, excluding fees and surcharges. The promotional fares apply to travel scheduled from January 1 to June 30, 2026, catering to customers planning their summer trips well in advance. Direct international flights from Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo include Singapore, while Cebu and Iloilo also provide connections to Hong Kong. Additionally, Cebu offers direct flights to several key Asian cities such as Bangkok-Don Mueang, Incheon, Narita, Osaka, and Ho Chi Minh City. Beyond these international options, travelers from Visayas and Mindanao can benefit from Cebu Pacific’s extensive inter-island network, allowing greater access to diverse destinations across the Philippines. Passengers can complete their bookings using credit or debit cards, as well as by redeeming existing Travel Funds. Add-on services are also available during booking. Currently, Cebu Pacific operates flights to 35 domestic locations and 26 international destinations spanning Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Mark Estiola Leads Filipino Charge into Round of 32 at World 10-Ball Championship

In a stunning upset late Tuesday night at the World 10-Ball Championship, unheralded Filipino Mark Estiola defeated Estonian semifinalist Mark Magi 2-0 (4-3, 4-3) to secure a spot in the tournament's round of 32. The event is being held at the Military Zone 7 Indoor Gym in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and features a $70,000 prize for the champion. Despite several Filipino favorites exiting early in the third round, Estiola maintained composure throughout his nearly three-hour match, prevailing after two hours and 52 minutes of intense play. His victory was complemented by fellow countrymen Jeffrey De Luna and Edmund Faraon, who also advanced to the next stage. De Luna defeated Vietnamese local Phuong Nam Pham 2-1 (4-1, 4-2), while Faraon dominated Qatari Ali Obaidli with a commanding 2-0 (4-0, 4-0) win. Among the notable Filipino casualties was reigning world 9-ball champion Carlo Biado, who suffered a narrow 1-2 defeat to Taiwanese contender Ko Ping-chung. Despite an early lead, Biado fell in a closely contested match that lasted two hours and 48 minutes, with game scores of (4-3, 3-4, 3-3, 4-5). Ko, a former world champion in both 9-ball and 10-ball, demonstrated greater steadiness under pressure. Other Filipino players eliminated included Jonas Magpantay, Albert James Manas, Lee Van Corteza, and Edwin Gamas. These players were fighting to remain in the double elimination format but were unable to advance beyond the late-night stages. The championship continues, spotlighting emerging talents like Estiola while emphasizing the highly competitive nature of international pool.

EcoWaste Coalition Warns Against Mercury-Contaminated Arche Pearl Cream Banned in Brunei

The EcoWaste Coalition has issued a warning to consumers to avoid using Arche Pearl Cream, a facial product manufactured in Thailand, following its prohibition by Brunei’s Ministry of Health (MoH) for mercury contamination. Laboratory analyses by the MoH’s Department of Scientific Services Pharmacy Section confirmed the presence of mercury in the cream, an ingredient banned under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive and the Minamata Convention on Mercury due to its toxicity. Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of EcoWaste Coalition, emphasized the dangers: \"We urge consumers to shun this imported product that has been flagged by government regulators, most recently by Brunei, for containing mercury. It is often sold online. Mercury exposure can result in skin discoloration, rashes and scarring, cause damage to the kidneys and the nervous system, and is extremely toxic to children and babies in the womb.\" The Brunei MoH advised those who have used Arche Pearl Cream to cease its use immediately, as the product lacks authorization for importation or sale in the country. Violations of Brunei’s 2007 Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations can result in penalties including fines of up to 5,000 Brunei dollars (around 225,000 Philippine pesos), imprisonment for up to two years, or both. Echoing these concerns, the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had previously warned against the product five years ago due to its unregistered status and potential health hazards. According to FDA Advisory 2020-631, \"the use of such a violative product may pose health risks to consumers,\" citing the possibility of unauthorized ingredients and heavy metal contamination. Additionally, U.S.-based agencies, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), have identified Arche Pearl Cream in their 2021 list of skin lightening products containing mercury, hydroquinone, and/or steroids. To mitigate further distribution, the EcoWaste Coalition has called upon online marketplaces to delist the product and urged regulatory bodies—including the FDA as well as customs and trade authorities—to take stringent action against unlawful importers, distributors, and sellers. Consumers are strongly advised to avoid unregistered cosmetic products to prevent exposure to harmful substances such as mercury.