Yorme Isko Moreno is all steam ahead in his bid for a comeback in Manila and his recent crowd-drawing event at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium is impressive.

“Lilinisin natin ulit ang Maynila. Maliligo ulit,” he says. “Lima singko na naman ang mga tolongges…” Those are just a couple of his signature lines that rally voters behind him: a resolve to clean up the city of all its trash and societal ills.

But let’s have a moment of reality check – something Firing Line hopes reaches him: Yorme, you have to check your own backyard. Apparently, you have a few people in your team banking on invitations for you to speak before exclusive audiences.

In short, mukhang may tolongges sa campaign team mo, sir. Recently, a group of socio-civic volunteers wanted you to be their keynote speaker but their emissary was told by a rainbow-colored member of your staff that — in your own lingo — certain “Eddie” needs to be fixed.

Yes, this group that held their event in Binondo might be known to have deep pockets, but such a suggestion coming from a member of your team can really drag you down – even more if you get elected back to City Hall.

Aspirants should be winning over voters, not making them pay for an audience. If true, this reeks of the very “dugyot” politics Yorme Isko claims to despise. Time for a cleanup — starting with his own team.

Dizon’s decision

The resignation of Jaime Bautista as Department of Transportation (DOTr) secretary came as a surprise and so did the instant naming of Vince Dizon, former COVID-19 testing czar, as his replacement. To a certain extent, it felt — well, for lack of a better term — well-orchestrated by the administration.

As to why, there are many speculations. I’m not about to mince them one by one just yet.

But this corner does take exception to one of Dizon’s earliest policy settings upon his assumption to the post: suspending the planned “cashless only” transactions along the country’s tollway systems.

To me it seems odd and defeatist that Dizon’s choice for his “oplan pakilala” is to slam the brakes on a modern system that is years in the making. The shift to cashless toll collection is designed to cut congestion and modernize our system.

Now, he puts it on hold, all because of a flimsy excuse about it being “anti-poor.” I don’t know whose intelligence is being challenged with this premise since most of the tollway users are private car owners. Are they the ones he is referring to as poor?

We’re not talking about commuters scraping together jeepney fare. And let’s be real — 97% of tollway users already have RFID. That last 3%? That’s not poverty. That’s plain stubbornness. They hold up the lines because they refuse to adapt, and now we’re all stuck in their mess.

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SHORT BURSTS. For comments or reactions, email firingline@ymail.com or tweet @Side_View via X. Read current and past issues of this column at http://www.thephilbiznews.com

How lucky we are, indeed, to have a transportation chief who is not a half-wit as the guy calling the shots at the MMDA.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista made it clear at the end of the week that the EDSA Bus Carousel — the exclusive bus lane that has made commuting faster and erased corner stop obstructions — will not only be maintained but also enhanced.

This was the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) clapback at MMDA Chair Romando Artes’s worst idea since birth. Only in the MMDA would you find a guy who thinks a mass transport solution should be threatened in favor of more traffic.

The EDSA Busway moves nearly 200,000 passengers daily. He has the numbers yet this wise guy floats the idea of removing it because private cars need more space.

I won’t be joining the chorus of netizens cursing at him, but perhaps I can give some advice: Go home and plant kamote!

Trial by Senate

Since we’re dishing out advice today, how about this: If the Senate is serious about booting Vice President Sara Duterte, they better get moving really fast.

Citing the law, seasoned election lawyer Romulo Macalintal says the Senate must conclude the impeachment trial before the 19th Congress adjourns on June 6, 2025. Otherwise, the next Senate can treat it as if it never happened.

The way our law works, exactly, is that there will be no trial left to judge once the new senators and congressmen elected in May convene for the next Congress.

Political analysts believe the Senate should convene as an impeachment court during the congressional break. They argue that the 1987 Constitution demands urgency or, more specifically, mandates the Senate to “proceed forthwith” once the articles of impeachment are transmitted.

Yet, Senate President Francis Escudero contends that they are barred by law from doing so during recess, suggesting a wait until June.

Delay can be the greatest gift senators can give to Inday Sara. If they drag their feet, they may as well kill the impeachment now and save everyone the theatrics.

Pilato Gadon

Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon is now washing his hands of the Dutertes — Pontius Pilate style.

Suddenly, he remembers that the Dutertes were never political juggernauts, claiming that Rodrigo Duterte only won in 2016 because Marcos loyalists had no better option. As for Sara? He pegs her at a measly 5 million votes.

Gadon’s message is clear: he backed the UniTeam for Marcos, not her. Now, there’s a true-blooded Marcos loyalist for you.

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SHORT BURSTS. For comments or reactions, email firingline@ymail.com or tweet @Side_View via X. Read current and past issues of this column at http://www.thephilbiznews.com

This innovative hub spans one hectare and will offer comprehensive programs in onboarding, skills training, road safety assessments, and digital capacity building—laying the vital groundwork for more inclusive digital economic opportunities in the Philippines.

The Grab Asenso Center reflects Grab’s mission to foster inclusive growth and sustainable livelihoods through technology and innovation. It also signifies a strengthened commitment to improving the professional development and welfare of its partner communities across Grab’s diverse services in the Philippines. 

Ronald Roda, Grab Philippines Country Head, led the ceremonial groundbreaking and highlighted the center’s transformative role in enabling inclusive prosperity. 

“For over 13 years, Grab has been a platform that drives not just economic activity but meaningful impact,” underscored Roda in his welcoming remarks. “The Grab Asenso Center will ensure our partners – whether drivers, riders, or merchants – are equipped to succeed in today’s digital-first economy. This facility represents our commitment to uplift communities and empower everyday entrepreneurs to thrive.”

This initiative also accelerates Grab’s ongoing pledge to create 500,000 livelihood opportunities. The Grab Asenso Center will play a critical role in sustaining Grab’s strong momentum on livelihood creation while catering to the evolving needs of its driver-partners and MOVE IT’s rider-partners.

Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized how the Grab Asenso Center serves as a model of public-private collaboration in advancing transportation and livelihoods: “App-based platforms like Grab are key drivers of inclusive growth, bridging technology and opportunity. Initiatives such as the Grab Asenso Center complement our efforts to modernize mobility while creating more dignified and sustainable livelihoods for transport workers. We look forward to seeing its impact on building a safer and more professional transportation network.” 

Set to be fully operational by Q1 2025, the Grab Asenso Center will replace the current Grab Partner Center and offer expanded facilities, including: 

• A larger, state-of-the art road safety training and assessment area.
• Enhanced spaces for onboarding and orientation for driver- and merchant-partners.
• Dedicated upskilling areas, including programs tailored to both Grab and MOVE IT partners.

The Grab Asenso Center aims to serve as a cornerstone for Grab’s mission of uplifting lives through technology and innovation. By integrating MOVE IT into its programs, Grab ensures that all its partners, regardless of platform, are equipped with the skills, tools, and support needed to thrive in the digital-first economy.

The Philippine Railway Institute (PRI) organized the conference to exchange views on the latest railway technology with the academe and the railway industry. The event also aimed to build a network between the industry, the government, and the academe.

With the theme “Reinforcing Safety and Security in the Philippine Railway Sector,” the conference was held to exchange views on the latest information on railway maintenance and management. Lively discussions took place in the presence of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista.

In his remarks, Minister Nihei highlighted how safety is at the heart of the railway business. He also expressed his hopes that through this conference, the railway industry, the government, and the academe will continue to collaborate and contribute to the future development of railway projects in the Philippines.

To mark the Christmas season and the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral, Air France will resume its direct flights between Manila and Paris in December, it was learned recently.

In a media release, the French embassy in the Philippines said the new thrice-a-week flights after a 20-year absence will further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries, reflecting France’s concrete support to the economic development of the Philippines.

“This marks a significant step in the strengthening of bilateral relations between France and the Philippines, offering new opportunities for mobility, and economic, tourism, cultural development, and student exchange,” the embassy said.

“It will help boost French and European investment in a particularly dynamic Philippine market,” it added.

As the Philippines is currently the only major Southeast Asian country without a direct connection to the European Union, this connection of the two air hubs—Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)—consolidates France’s role as a gateway to Europe for the Philippines.

“[This] strategic connection [will also] boost trade, tourism, and exchanges between France and the Philippines, and more generally with Europe,” the embassy said.

The Paris-Manila route will officially open on the first weekend of December, which will coincide with the end of the restoration work on the world-famous cathedral five years after it caught fire.

“This initiative also illustrates Air France’s commitment to establishing a long-term presence in the Philippine market, at a time when flights between Europe and the Philippines are set to increase by +4.1% a year between now and 2042,” the embassy said.

Other strategic initiatives include France’s opening of a resident defense mission in the country in June 2024, and its opening of a new embassy office in the Philippines with enhanced resources at the start of the year.

“The Philippine government is creating a business environment that promotes and encourages foreign investment. We are enacting recent policy reforms, that strategically broaden the participation of foreign companies in key sectors of the Philippine economy,” said DTI Secretary Fred Pascual during a meeting with Sojitz Corporation on June 19.

Pascual together with the Philippine Economic Team and representatives from various Philippine government agencies, met with Sojitz Corporation Executive Officer, President, and Chief Operating Officer Kosuke Uemura.

The Trade Chief discussed that the Philippine government is actively working to create a conducive business climate in the Philippines through amendments to key legislation such as the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, Foreign Investments Act, Public Services Act, and Renewable Energy Act. These policy reforms have captured foreign participation in previously restricted sectors, increased foreign direct investments, and accelerated economic growth.

Moreover, the establishment of green lanes for strategic investments has streamlined the investment process. As of May 31, 2024, the DTI has approved green lane endorsements for 68 projects, attracting USD 35 billion in investments across various sectors, including manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and food security.

The DTI acknowledges the concerns raised by foreign investors regarding value-added tax (VAT) incentives. Notably, the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act’s implementing rules and regulations have been amended to address VAT-related issues experienced by registered business enterprises (RBEs).

In collaboration with the Department of Finance, the DTI continues to work towards a simpler and more efficient VAT regime through the CREATE MORE Bill, which recently gained second-reading approval in the House of Representatives.

The head of DTI’s field office in Japan, Commercial Counselor Dita Angara-Mathay, reported that Sojitz envisions more investments in cell tower construction and co-location. The company is also eager to contribute to the country’s food security and farmers’ welfare programs through its science-based farming project utilizing, among others, its high-quality NPK fertilizer.

These interests were validated by the presence in the meeting of the trading house’s Executive Officer of Aerospace, Transportation, and Infrastructure, Mr. Masakazu Hashimoto; and the Executive Officer and COO of the Consumer Industry and Agriculture Business, Mr. Hideo Hatada.

Recognizing the vital role of public-private partnerships in economic development, the recently enacted Public-Private Partnership Code of the Philippines streamlines collaboration between the government and private sector to promote the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure projects.

“The DTI extends a warm invitation to Japanese businesses to explore the vast opportunities within the Philippine market. With a strong economic foundation, a commitment to a transparent and investor-friendly environment, and a shared vision for a sustainable future, the Philippines stands ready to solidify its position as a strategic partner for Japan,” Secretary Pascual said as he pitched the country’s strong economic potential to Japanese businesses.

The meeting with Sojitz Corporation leveraged the company’s established presence in the Philippines, with various investments in fertilizers, mining, food production, and automotive dealerships.

Sojitz Corporation is a leading general trading company in Japan, established in 2003 through the merger of Nichimen and Nissho Iwai. With a presence in over 70 countries, the company is engaged in various businesses, including manufacturing, sales, import/export, and investments across various sectors, such as automobiles, aerospace, energy, and consumer goods.

Japan Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio arrived in the Philippines for the Japan-Philippines Summit Meeting, marking his first official visit to the country.

PM Kishida was joined by his spouse, Mrs. KISHIDA Yuko, and accompanied by Ambassador KOSHIKAWA Kazuhiko and Philippine Secretary of Transportation Jaime Bautista.

Upon arrival, Prime Minister Kishida proceeded to Rizal Park and paid tribute through a wreath-laying ceremony at Dr. Jose Rizal Monument in Manila.  

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. warmly welcomed Prime Minister Kishida to the Philippines in a state dinner banquet held at the Malacañang Palace. This occasion hosted the signing and exchange of notes of two pivotal agreements for the deepening of security cooperation between Japan and the Philippines. 

In the presence of Prime Minister Kishida and President Marcos, Ambassador Koshikawa and Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo signed and exchanged notes for 600 million yen in Official Security Assistance (OSA) grant, aiming at fortifying the maritime domain awareness (MDA) capabilities of the Philippine defense forces, particularly the Philippine Navy. The OSA program, inaugurated in 2023, manifests a collaborative endeavor to enhance the security and deterrence capacities of the recipient nations, thereby contributing to the preservation and fortification of international peace and security.

Ambassador Koshikawa and Secretary Manalo also signed and exchanged notes for 957 million yen in heavy machinery provision for disaster recovery under the “Economic and Social Development Program” grant aid. Recognizing the Philippines’ vulnerability to natural calamities, this initiative is envisaged to bolster the nation’s disaster prevention and post-calamity recovery capabilities, thereby facilitating swift restoration of essential infrastructure and ensuring the well-being of the affected populace.

Prime Minister Kishida’s official visit to the Philippines underscores Japan’s cooperation in maintaining and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law, ensuring a world where human dignity is protected.

There’s no denying that our country’s main international gateway requires more than a mere facelift. Passengers, both local and international, have shared their ordeals, caught in the never-ending circles and inescapable Catch 22 of our airport.

As someone deeply entrenched in the diplomatic circle, I witness the tireless efforts of our beloved friends in the diplomatic community, promoting the Philippines as “More Fun in the Philippines.” I have personally explored the vast beauty of our country, from Aparri up North to Tawi-Tawi down South, including the enchanting Sitangkai, dubbed the Venice of the South, where few dared to venture. These experiences have made me appreciate our nation’s allure, along with the warm hospitality of Filipinos, providing countless reasons for foreign tourists to come and enjoy their time here.

While our country undoubtedly has much to offer, it is worth noting that the Philippines remains a top choice for many world travelers in the region, even without extensive efforts from the Department of Tourism to rebrand or expensive marketing campaigns that might not be fun for the average Juan and Juana.

Yes, it’s undeniably more fun in the Philippines, no matter where you go. However, the not-so-fun part lies in the experiences that await travelers upon their arrival and departure. Our congested airport requires visitors to allocate 3-4 hours of their precious vacation time just to navigate through the sea of passengers and planes. Fortunately, the Manila International Airport Consortium’s (MIAC) Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Masterplan promises to address these issues through collaborative efforts.

Attending the media briefing held by MIAC, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that this consortium comprises the country’s finest in the business world. They are the “Dream Team,” composed of Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc., AC Infrastructure Holdings Corporation, Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corporation, Alliance Global – Infracorp Development Inc., Filinvest Development Corporation, and JG Summit Infrastructure Holdings Corporation. Their impeccable reputations speak for themselves, and their involvement ensures the protection of their corporate standing.

To witness these Filipino conglomerates pooling their minds and resources together to offer an unsolicited proposal for the rehabilitation and development of the NAIA is truly commendable and deserving of celebration. Should this project reach completion, it would mark the first successful, unhindered rehabilitation of NAIA Terminal 3. Ideally, this achievement would make us all proud, knowing that it was accomplished under the auspices of Filipino conglomerates.

Looking back at the tumultuous history of NAIA, we recall numerous setbacks, such as the involvement of foreign companies and legal disputes that led to claims and arbitrations in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) tribunal, even reaching our own high court. In contrast, the MIAC’s unsolicited proposal appears to provide a viable solution for the much-needed rehabilitation, coinciding with the continuous growth in tourism.

What caught my attention was the revealed rehabilitation masterplan, consisting of three key phases of development that will enhance capacity, reliability, and overall passenger experience.

Phase 1, aptly called “Quick Wins,” aims to be implemented over the first two years, swiftly increasing the airport’s capacity to 54 MPPA by 2025 while improving reliability. It also intends to reduce waiting times at various bottlenecks throughout NAIA. Phase 2 will further increase the airport’s capacity to 62.5 MPPA by 2028 through terminal floor area expansion, addition of airfield facilities, and improved cross-terminal transportation. Finally, Phase 3 envisions expanding terminal space and airfield capacity, ultimately achieving a capacity of approximately 70 MPPA by 2048.

The MIAC also emphasized that the new NAIA will complement Bulacan Airport, Clark Airport, and the upcoming Sangley Airport, ensuring comfort and convenience for air travelers. With these four beautiful and efficient airports, airlines will inevitably compete, leading to lower fares, and individuals will have more options for their flights.

During the farewell party of German Ambassador Anke Reiffenstuel, I had the opportunity to ask Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista about the proposed 25-year contract with MIAC. Secretary Bautista expressed reservations about the length of the contract, deeming it too long. However, he also informed me that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is in constant communication with the MIAC team, and the final result will be revealed soon.

While we eagerly await the Philippines’ ability to offer an improved and efficient airport to the world, my ultimate wish is that the MIAC’s unsolicited proposal will result in a “Triple Win” scenario — for passengers, the country, and the investors.

If this vision becomes a reality, we can proudly say that we are giving the best to the world, and it is time for our guests to experience even more fun in the Philippines. What do you think?