Brunei News Gazette

Manila, Philippines—The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced that there will be no ban on dairy products from the United States despite the recent outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) among dairy cattle. This decision follows assessments of the risks associated with the transmission of the virus through dairy processes.

According to Philippines News Agency, in an interview on Monday, the movement of the avian influenza virus from birds to cattle is currently not considered a significant risk. Palabrica emphasized that pasteurized milk from infected cattle does not pose a threat to human health. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) supports this position, citing new studies showing that pasteurization effectively inactivates the virus in dairy products, including fluid milk, cottage cheese, and sour cream.

The USFDA's reassurance came after additional testing of 297 dairy samples in the market, which followed an initial study of 96 retail milk samples. Both studies confirmed the effectiveness of pasteurization in neutralizing HPAI.

Palabrica also noted that the scenario of AI infecting cattle is unlikely in the Philippines, citing the country's minimal exposure to migratory birds and AI-infected chickens that could affect local cattle, particularly given the absence of a large-scale dairy cattle industry.

Further, the DA committed to intensifying efforts to combat zoonotic diseases such as avian influenza, rabies, foot and mouth disease (FMD), and anthrax. This initiative is part of its new responsibilities under the Philippine Inter-Agency Committee on Zoonoses (PhilCZ), recently transferred from the Department of Health (DOH). Coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will also be enhanced under this committee. Despite the Philippines being FMD-free, the DA is proactively advancing efforts to secure or develop vaccines against this and other emerging diseases threatening the livestock sector.

MAKATI CITY — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that negotiations for the Philippines-European Union Free Trade Agreement (PH-EU FTA) would conclude by 2027, aiming to significantly enhance bilateral trade and investment relations.

According to Philippines News Agency, statement delivered by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin at the 2024 European-Philippines Business Dialogue and European Investors' Night on Monday, President Marcos described the PH-EU FTA as essential for expanding the trade relationship between the Philippines and the EU. "We look forward to negotiations being finalized by 2027 and to elevating trade and investment flows through a comprehensive agreement that includes advanced provisions for digital trade and intellectual property rights," Marcos stated in remarks quoted by a Presidential Communications Office news release.

The resumption of formal talks, jointly announced last month by Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual and European Commission Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis, comes after negotiations stalled in 2017 due to EU concerns over human rights issues in the Philippines under the previous administration. The ongoing negotiations are anticipated to increase bilateral trade by approximately 6 billion euros (around PHP369.7 billion).

President Marcos highlighted the FTA’s potential to open new opportunities, improving market access for Philippine goods and services, and facilitating investment, technology, and expertise exchange, which he noted would bring mutual benefits. He emphasized the symbolic nature of the FTA as a cornerstone of shared aspirations for future prosperity and collaboration.

Marcos also underscored the Philippines' welcoming stance toward EU investments in sectors like renewable energy and electronics manufacturing, which align with the Philippines' export strengths and emission reduction targets. Additionally, he pointed to opportunities in agricultural and fishery processing and public-private partnerships in sustainable infrastructure, which are poised to expand significantly.

To enhance the business environment and maximize the FTA’s benefits, the Philippine government has enacted several reforms, including the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, the Foreign Investment Act, the Public Services Act, and the Green Lanes Initiative for Strategic Investments.

Furthermore, President Marcos touted the administration’s 'Build, Better, More' program, which includes 185 major infrastructure projects worth approximately US$161 billion (around PHP9.2 trillion). These projects, covering sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, transportation, and disaster mitigation, aim to boost the Philippines' appeal as an investment destination. He also highlighted the Maharlika Investment Fund, the Philippines' first sovereign wealth fund, designed to engage the private sector in financing key infrastructure projects.

Dagupan City, Pangasinan—The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has forecasted that 37 areas in the Philippines will experience heat indices at the danger level on Tuesday, with Dagupan City expected to reach as high as 45 degrees Celsius.

According to Philippines News Agency, other areas such as Clark in Pampanga, Cuyo in Palawan, and Virac in Catanduanes are also expected to hit a 45°C heat index. Several locations will face heat indices from 42 to 44 degrees Celsius, including Bacnotan in La Union, Aparri and Tuguegarao City in Cagayan, Baler and Casiguran in Aurora, and San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, among others.

PAGASA warns that heat indices between 41°C and 51°C can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion, with prolonged exposure possibly causing heat stroke. Despite these high heat indices, the overall weather across the country will remain fair, marked by isolated rain showers due to easterlies and localized thunderstorms.

The weather agency also notes that the archipelago will experience light to moderate winds and slight to moderate sea conditions.

ANTIQUE — The province of Antique is set to host the 2025 regional sports meet for Western Visayas, following the official handover of the hosting responsibilities during this year’s event's closing ceremony.

According to Philippines News Agency, the provincial tourism officer representing Governor Rhodora Cadiao, the transition occurred when the Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) banner was received from Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson at Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City on Tuesday afternoon. Dr. Evelyn Remo, chief of the Schools Division of Antique School Governance and Operations, expressed optimism about the upcoming event during a phone interview, citing the potential home advantage for local athletes.

Antique's performance in the 2024 WVRAA meet saw the province securing a fifth-place overall finish, with athletes bringing home 17 gold, 19 silver, and 337 bronze medals. The elementary level competitors won three gold, nine silver, and 19 bronze medals, while the secondary level participants earned 11 gold, seven silver, and 31 bronze medals. Additionally, Antique athletes excelled in the para games and demo sports, winning a combined total of three gold and ten silver and bronze medals across these categories.

Remo highlighted that the notable successes in archery, dance sports, taekwondo, boxing, pencak silat, and the para games were a testament to the athletes' skills and dedication. She also called on local government units and other stakeholders to support the athletes with yearlong training to enhance their competitiveness. Remo emphasized the importance of providing more training opportunities and exposure to invitational games to help athletes hone their abilities further.

Laguna, Philippines—The Laguna Provincial Police Office (LPPO) announced the arrest of 132 individuals during a series of operations conducted from April 29 to May 5. These arrests were part of a comprehensive effort to clamp down on various criminal activities across the province.

According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke at a press briefing on Tuesday, a significant portion of the arrests involved alleged drug offenders, with 54 individuals taken into custody. These operations also resulted in the seizure of 122.98 grams of shabu, a methamphetamine, valued at approximately PHP836,264.

The police operations extended beyond drug enforcement. Unos reported that 15 bookmakers and 26 participants in illegal gambling were also apprehended. The raids on these gambling operations led to the seizure of unspecified amounts of betting money.

Additionally, 37 individuals wanted for various crimes were captured following the execution of outstanding warrants. Colonel Unos emphasized the police’s dedication to reducing criminality and enhancing safety, tranquility, and order throughout Laguna. He affirmed the police's mission to protect the community and uphold law and order.

Taal Volcano Island, Philippines—A multi-agency inspection team discovered on Tuesday that despite a government ban on human settlements, a small number of individuals still reside on Taal Volcano Island. The government had previously declared the island a no-settlement zone due to safety concerns.

According to Philippines News Agency, spokesperson for the Office of Civil Defense-Calabarzon, speaking to the Philippine News Agency, the occupants are mostly caretakers of fish cages along the shores of the island. The inspection team issued a stern warning for these individuals to vacate immediately due to the ongoing unpredictability of the volcano's activity.

De la Paz noted that the government possesses the authority to enforce a forced evacuation, but such a decision has not yet been determined. He commented on the minimal number of individuals still present, which is fewer than in previous inspections. These residents have recently endured grassfires on May 2, believed to have been ignited by campfires they set.

The Protected Area Management Board, which oversees the Taal Volcano Protected Landscape, permits workers from the aquaculture sector to tend to their fish cages between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., provided they do not stay overnight. This seven-hour window is subject to cancellation if volcanic activity increases.

De la Paz, who participated in the ocular inspection, mentioned that the team included representatives from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Batangas Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Bureau of Fire Protection, among others.

LONDON — Oil prices experienced a rise on Tuesday as ceasefire negotiations in Gaza continued alongside an ongoing Israeli military operation at the Rafah border crossing. The uncertainty and heightened geopolitical tensions contributed to the volatility in oil markets.

According to Philippines News Agency, the international benchmark Brent crude was priced at USD 83.42 per barrel at 10:28 a.m. local time (0728 GMT), marking a 1.32 percent increase from the previous session’s close of USD 82.33 per barrel. Meanwhile, the American benchmark West Texas Intermediate was recorded at USD 78.55 per barrel, up slightly by 0.09 percent from the closing price of USD 78.48 per barrel in the previous session.

The increase in oil prices is linked to the ongoing Israeli assault on the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing, as reported by the Palestinian news agency WAFA. The agency noted that Israeli forces had launched rocket attacks on buildings in the area, casting doubts on the success of ceasefire efforts. This development has exacerbated concerns about potential escalations in a region critical to global oil supply.

On the diplomatic front, Hamas has expressed its acceptance of a ceasefire proposal mediated by Qatar and Egypt. Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, confirmed the group's agreement to the ceasefire in conversations with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel. Despite this, the Israeli War Cabinet has opted to continue its military actions in Rafah.

Further influencing oil prices is the strengthening US dollar, which was recorded at an index of 105.26 at 9:07 a.m. local time (0607 GMT). The stronger dollar makes oil pricier for holders of other currencies, potentially tempering demand despite the ongoing conflict.

MANILA — The Philippines announced on Tuesday the launch of its first dollar bond issuance for the year, introducing dual-tranche benchmark-sized US dollar bonds. This strategic financial move aims to support the country’s budgetary needs through international markets.

According to Philippines News Agency, the pricing guidance for the 10-year note has been set at a rate of Treasuries plus 120 basis points. The 25-year sustainability tranche has been priced at 6.05 percent. The government, through former Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, disclosed earlier this year that it plans to raise up to USD 5 billion from global bond issuances to help meet this year’s substantial financing requirement of PHP 2.57 trillion. The Bureau of the Treasury has crafted a fundraising strategy that continues to favor domestic sources with a 75:25 borrowing mix.

ILOILO CITY — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has outlined plans to commence improvements at the Iloilo International Airport in the first quarter of 2025, seeking to modernize and expand the facility through a partnership with the private sector. The project is expected to enhance the airport's capacity and infrastructure, bolstering its role in regional economic growth.

According to Philippines News Agency, Enrique Antonio Esquivel III, the project will be awarded to a private partner early in 2025. In his communication with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, Esquivel noted that the upgrade includes expanding the passenger terminal, constructing an additional apron, and renovating existing facilities. The initiative follows the new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code, necessitating a competitive bidding process. The original proposal by Prime Asset Ventures Inc. is under negotiation, with expectations to finalize the agreement and proceed with the comparative challenge period soon. Mayor Treñas expressed eagerness for the project’s advancement, highlighting its importance for the local and regional economy.

CEBU CITY — Cebu province has launched ambitious reclamation projects across six localities, aiming to develop new health facilities, commercial hubs, and a sports stadium. These developments were announced on Tuesday by the local government.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Cebu Provincial Reclamation Authority (CPRA) is currently reviewing proposals from Toledo City and the towns of Balamban, Carmen, Compostela, Dumanjug, and Oslob. These projects are intended to reclaim land for various public and commercial uses. In Toledo City, a significant 180,579-square-meter reclamation initiative is set to enhance the waterfront area with the construction of a sports stadium, a yacht club, and various commercial and educational facilities.

Toledo City Mayor Marjorie Perrales expressed gratitude for the support from the provincial government, highlighting an ambitious goal to complete their project within the year. "I would like to thank Governor Gwen and the Provincial Board members for guiding us. Our target this year is to finish the project this year," said Perrales.

Further developments include Balamban’s plan to build a dome, a wharf, and an evacuation center in its 84,000-square-meter reclamation area, positioning itself as the west Cebu province's shipbuilding hub. Additionally, Oslob, known for whale watching, is set to establish a commercial hub in a 10-hectare reclamation lot. Dumanjug is planning to develop food and commercial facilities to generate local income, though the size of the reclamation area remains unspecified.

In Carmen and Compostela, each town is working on five-hectare reclamation projects that will accommodate new public markets, transport facilities, and infrastructure to protect residents from storm surges.

The CPRA has mandated that all six local government units complete necessary documentation for their projects, including obtaining an environmental compliance certificate from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Cebu City, Philippines—The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Central Visayas has committed to endorsing any petitions for fare increases from regional transport cooperatives to its central office. Eduardo Montealto Jr., the regional director of LTFRB-7, made this announcement on Tuesday, emphasizing the process for handling requests for fare adjustments.

According to Philippines News Agency, speaking to the Philippine News Agency, the LTFRB-7 will facilitate the review of a fare increase petition by forwarding it to the central office for further consideration. He clarified that until an increase is approved, operators of both traditional and modern public utility jeepney (PUJ) units must adhere to the current fare structure.

The Cebu Integrated Multi-Purpose Cooperative, along with other cooperatives, has proposed a PHP5 increase to the existing minimum fare, which would raise it from PHP15 to PHP20. This request contrasts with higher fare projections associated with the full implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, which some have inaccurately estimated could lead to a base fare of PHP40.

Montealto urged the public to await official fare hike advisories directly from the LTFRB to avoid confusion caused by misinformation. He assured that LTFRB-7 is attentive to the transport sector's concerns and is prepared to assist cooperatives with any issues they face. In the meantime, he warned that drivers should continue to collect the established minimum fare to avoid penalties, including potential show-cause orders from the LTFRB-7.

Antique, Philippines—Sibalom Natural Park (SNP) is set to be introduced as an ecotourism destination on May 10 in the southern part of Antique province. The park, spanning 6,778.44 hectares across 18 villages of Sibalom, was designated as a natural park under Republic Act 11038.

According to Philippines News Agency, SNP Protected Area deputy superintendent, the park will offer forest tours, local cuisine, and a community experience that highlights the culture of the area. He detailed that the services like tour-guiding and housekeeping will be managed by trained Bantay Gubat volunteers, who have undergone extensive training in tourism and customer service skills supported by the United Nations Development Program-Biodiversity Finance Initiative (UNDP-BIOFIN) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) since 2022.

The initiative to open the park to ecotourism follows comprehensive training in tour-guiding and community-based ecotourism product development, with SNP chosen for its rich biodiversity, including species like the Visayan warty pig and various hornbills, and for being the habitat of the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia speciosa.

Oczon highlighted that the park is equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, gazebos, and cottages designed for family and organizational gatherings. Local entertainment will include performances of songs and dances by Bantay Gubat volunteers. Culinary offerings will feature native dishes that have been recognized in local culinary competitions, alongside a signature drink made from local fruits.

In anticipation of the opening, volunteers are setting up a reception and orientation area crafted from local materials such as bamboo and coconut leaves. Oczon expressed hopes for SNP's future as a world-class ecotourism destination.