DepEd Secretary Sonny M. Angara, principal author of the National Vision Screening Act, highlighted the critical role of early intervention.

“Preventive healthcare must begin as early as possible, and vision screening ensures that no child is left behind simply because of an undetected eye condition. This initiative reflects our commitment to Universal Health Care and to President Marcos Jr.’s education agenda, linking health and education as twin priorities. By detecting vision problems early, we give our learners the best chance to succeed in school and beyond.”

Dr. Charlie L. Ho, IPAO National President, emphasized the urgency of addressing eye health globally.

“Clear vision is the gateway to effective learning. The World Health Organization projects that by 2050, the number of people needing eye care will dramatically increase, with billions already living with vision impairment today. If we do not act decisively, this crisis will affect generations. Through NVSP, we are taking proactive steps to ensure Filipino children are not part of that alarming statistic.”

Anchored on Republic Act 11358, NVSP is a cornerstone of DepEd’s preventive health strategy, reinforcing that healthy learners are better learners. The program covers, Mandatory vision screening for all kindergarten learners, and Provision of prescription eyeglasses to selected children.

Expanded access to professional eye care through IPAO’s nationwide network

The initiative is supported by PhilHealth’s Yaman sa Kalusugan Program (Yakap), reflecting the government’s commitment to preventive healthcare under the Universal Health Care agenda.

Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, PhilHealth President, said, “We launched the PhilHealth Optometric Benefit Package to provide children aged zero to 15 access to vision screening and prescription eyeglasses. These benefits give every Filipino child an opportunity to learn, gain self-confidence, and achieve a better future. Our goal is to ensure learners’ well-being by strengthening primary healthcare, preventing visual impairments and permanent blindness, and assuring a better quality of life.”

Dr. Ho added that RA 11358 complements PhilHealth’s Optometric Benefit Package, which currently provides free prescription eyeglasses for learners from kindergarten to Grade 10 with refractive errors. IPAO is advocating for coverage to extend up to Grade 12.

“We will support DepEd’s vision screening through the school division offices. This benefit supplements PhilHealth’s Optometry Benefit Package, and our partnership with DepEd would not be possible without the support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Secretary Angara, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, and PhilHealth President Dr. Mercado,” Dr. Ho said.

With NVSP, the Philippines takes a significant step toward ensuring every learner can see clearly and learn effectively, laying the foundation for a brighter future.

On October 29, DTI officials conducted an inspection in Makati City, checking the prices and supply levels of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) such as candles and bottled water, items in high demand during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

The inspection revealed that all 224 stock-keeping units (SKUs) of monitored goods were within the DTI’s suggested retail price (SRP), reflecting stable market conditions.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque emphasized that the activity underscores the agency’s ongoing commitment to consumer protection and market stability.

“We commend our retailers for upholding fair prices in the interest and welfare of our consumers. Rest assured that the DTI will continue to diligently monitor the markets to keep prices affordable while also ensuring that our businesses remain sustainable and profitable, so that it will be a win-win for all,” Secretary Roque said.

Since the start of October, the DTI has inspected 19 flower shops to ensure compliance with SRPs and to encourage vendors to maintain reasonable pricing amid increased demand.

As Chairperson of the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC), Secretary Roque also joined Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in monitoring wet markets, checking the prices of rice, meat, fish, fruits, and vegetables across 10 market stalls.

These activities form part of the DTI–DA joint efforts to safeguard price stability and supply adequacy of essential commodities nationwide. To date, both agencies have conducted 23 joint market monitoring operations this year, reinforcing their shared goal of keeping consumer goods affordable while supporting fair and responsible business practices.

APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV said the economic zone is committed to clean energy following the President’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), where the Chief Executive pointed to the country’s lingering energy issues.

“His recognition of the urgent need to expand access to electricity, reduce energy costs, and secure reliable power supply, especially in underserved areas, is a call to action we fully embrace at APECO,” said Taway.

Citing that over three million Filipino households remain without electricity and many of them in areas like Aurora, Taway stressed that energy insecurity continues to hamper economic growth and investor confidence.

“This is not uncommon to the province of Aurora, where many families, particularly in remote areas, do not have electricity. Such conditions have dampened investor interest in locating and opening businesses in the province, despite the presence of an economic zone,” he said.

APECO is currently advancing renewable energy projects in its Casiguran site, an area rich in solar, wind, and hydro potential. These efforts are in line with the national targets of achieving a 35% RE share by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

Among the major developments is the entry of Pacific Impact, which is poised to invest in a 16.8-megawatt solar power project. The initiative is expected to enhance energy access and infrastructure in the zone, while supporting its vision of becoming both the “fishing capital of the Pacific” and the country’s first national defense hub.

“This project not only strengthens APECO’s energy infrastructure but also demonstrates our viability as an investment destination,” Taway said.

He said that clean energy is not just an environmental imperative but a strategic economic tool: “We believe that RE is not just a solution but a catalyst for inclusive growth. Power precedes progress.”

APECO, he said, is ready to play a key role in helping modernize the country’s energy sector, meeting the needs of the people while attracting global investors.

“Sana matapos natin ito hanggang sa Valenzuela, baka matapos natin ito ‘28. Baka puwede nang in-inaugurate sa 2028,” President Marcos said in a media statement after conducting an inspection.

President Marcos led the inspection of a few hundred meters of the subway’s southbound rail from Camp Aguinaldo Station, aboard a rail transport used by workers.

The President was joined by Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave M. Gomez, Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo, representatives of Sumitomo Mitsui Construction Co. (SMCC), and several Filipino engineers.

“Basta tingnan natin. Lahat naman ay nag-a-agree na kailangan bilisan nang mabuti at nang husto dahil ang ating mga commuter ay para naman maging mas maginhawa ang kanilang pag-commute,” President Marcos said.

The President also viewed one of the tunnel boring machines being used in the project.

“Napaka-impressive. Impressive talaga ito. Kung titingnan ninyo, isipin niyo kung gaano kabigat ‘yung engineering na dinadala nila dito,” the Chief Executive said, commending Japanese engineering as one of the best in the world.

“Kaya I urge everyone to keep going, and we look forward to the day when we can say na nasakyan na natin ‘yung subway sa Pilipinas. We have taken the tube to go to work,” the Chief Executive said.

The 33-kilometer line will run from Valenzuela City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City.

Travel between those cities currently takes about two hours and 30 minutes, but the subway will reduce the time to just 40 minutes, President Marcos said.

President Marcos noted that through the Metro Manila Subway project collaboration, Filipino engineers are learning from Japanese engineering specialists.

“Ngunit hindi lang sila nandito, tinuturuan din ang ating mga engineers. At kung makikita ninyo doon sa loob, isa lang, dalawang lang ang supervisor na Hapon. Karamihan ng mga nagtatrabaho puro Pilipino na,” said the President.

“Once again, I am not surprised dahil kayang-kaya naman talaga ng Pilipino ‘yun basta maturuan nang mabuti.”

Lim will take over from incumbent SEC Chairman Emilio Aquino, whose seven-year term will expire on June 6.

As the new SEC head, Lim’s “leadership is expected to strengthen investor confidence and further promote transparency, innovation, and inclusive growth in the Philippine financial sector,” said Bersamin.

Bersamin acknowledged Lim as a distinguished member of the legal and financial communities who has an extensive background in corporate and securities law.

Lim served as president and chief executive officer of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) from 2004 to 2010 and is a senior partner at the Angara Abello Concepcion Regala & Cruz Law Offices (ACCRALAW), a leading law firm in the country.

Lim is also a former trustee and president of the Shareholders Association of the Philippines (SharePHIL).

“He (Lim) has contributed significantly to investor protection and market transparency through both his professional work and his academic involvement,” said Bersamin.

“He brings to this office decades of experience in corporate law, governance, and capital market regulation,” he added.

The SEC is the national regulatory agency tasked with supervising the corporate sector, capital market participants, and securities and investment instruments market, as well as protecting the interests of the investing public.

The Royal Thai Embassy in the Philippines hosted a grand celebration to mark the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries, underscoring the deep and enduring friendship between the two nations.

The event, graced by prominent figures from both countries, was a testament to the strong bilateral ties and multifaceted cooperation that have flourished over the decades.

Held at the Dusit Hotel, the evening’s festivities were attended by key dignitaries led by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, and other notable officials and members of the diplomatic corps.

The celebration featured a dazzling display of cultural performances, culinary delights, and artistic exhibitions that highlighted the rich heritage and vibrant traditions of both Thailand and the Philippines.

In his welcoming speech, Thai Ambassador to the Philippines Tull Traisorat emphasized the robust cooperation between the two countries across various sectors.

He highlighted the significant achievements in political, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions, pointing out regular high-level exchanges, thriving two-way trade and investments, and collaborative initiatives in education, tourism, sports, and culture.

“Our collaboration extends beyond bilateral sphere, thriving in regional fora like ASEAN and on the global arena within the United Nations framework,” Ambassador Traisorat said.

“These multifaceted cooperation and partnership both at bilateral and multilateral levels have been instrumental in addressing common challenges, advancing our shared values and interests, and promoting peace, prosperity and development of our countries, our region, and beyond,” he added.

A whole-of-society approach to celebrations

Noting the Royal Thai Embassy’s “whole-of-society” approach in commemorating this historic milestone, Ambassador Traisorat said a series of celebratory activities were organized throughout the year, engaging various stakeholders from both nations.

Notable events included the Thailand-Philippines Street Food Festival, a symposium on multilateral cooperation in education, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between leading teacher universities from both countries.

Upcoming events such as a symposium on sustainability, a symphony orchestra concert, and a film festival further exemplify the deep-rooted partnership and shared aspirations.

The evening’s highlight was a special reception that showcased the collaborative efforts of the Thai business community, government agencies, and cultural organizations.

The event featured a unique collection of Thai and Filipino fabrics by designer Paul Cabral, cultural performances orchestrated by the Department of Tourism, and an impressive demonstration of Muay Thai and also Arnis by the Philippine Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand also contributed to the vibrant Thai performances, while an array of authentic Thai cuisine delighted the guests.

Ambassador Traisorat eloquently encapsulated the spirit of the occasion with the symbolic phrase “Amazing Love,” representing the unity and mutual affection between Thailand and the Philippines.

He offered a toast to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., celebrating the enduring friendship and committed partnership between the two nations.

Sweden celebrated Swedish National Day and highlighted to deepen bilateral ties with the Philippines in key areas such as defense and security, industrial development, innovation, and healthcare.

Swedish Ambassador Annika Thunborg reiterated that the Philippines will remain Sweden’s strategic partner and will support the country in its goal for economic growth and quest for the rule of law amidst China’s unabated aggression.

“We support the Philippine Development Plan with the vision to improve the country’s economy and provide jobs to Filipinos,” Ambassador Thunborg said.

The lady envoy also revealed that there are around 40 Swedish companies doing business in the Philippines and she also brandished that Sweden is recognized as a global leader in innovation. Since 2016, when the Embassy reopened, Team Sweden — comprised of the Embassy of Sweden, trade and investment council Business Sweden, and Swedish private sector actors — has been actively collaborating with the Philippines in innovation and development. A few of its focus areas has been transportation, energy, retail, and circular economy with companies such as Atlas Copco, H&M, Lynk electric cars, PTC & Wallenius shipping, Volvo Buses, ABB, Nasdaq, BDO, and Transcom. This is possible through the “quadruple helix model” which involves collaboration with the Philippine Government, Swedish and Filipino private sector, international development institutions and other expert communities such as academia, as well as the inclusion of civil society. 

Team Sweden is keen to continue these collaborations, especially in security and defense, sustainable and responsible mining, and healthcare with companies such as Saab, Volvo Trucks and Construction Equipment, Sandvik, Ericsson Telecommunications, and Astra Zeneca.

“Sweden is committed to building a long-term and sustainable relationship with the Philippines. This is attested by the visits of our Minister of Trade Johan Forssell last year, the visit of State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jan Knutsson and leading Swedish industrialist and banker Marcus Wallenberg earlier this year, and now with the Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson,” Ambassador Thunborg added.

At the event, representatives of the Swedish government highlighted the need to address common challenges such as the climate, economic security, and geopolitical tensions. Moreover, in an increasingly polarized world, it is crucial for states to have strong ties with like-minded countries. Sweden sees the Philippines as an important partner with common interests in free trade, the international rules-based order, and the green and digital transition. 

For his part, Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson said, “Peace and security have indeed for a long time been a priority area in the Swedish-Philippine relations. Sweden has since many years actively supported the Bangsamoro Peace Process, and our two countries also cooperate extensively on matters such as promoting and defending the UN Charter, the rules-based international order and respect for international law, including UNCLOS.”

Meanwhile, Philippines’ Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. gave a message on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

In the President’s message, it noted that “The past 77 years of our relations have been marked by friendly exchanges and fruitful cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade and investments, maritime cooperation, energy, smart and green solutions, science and technology and of course, defense, your visit today, Minister Jonson is a testament to the deepening of our defense and security relations.”

Since 1983, Sweden has celebrated its National Day on the 6^th of June. This is the date on which Gustav Vasa was elected king in 1523, which laid the foundation of Sweden as a unified nation state, and on which a new, landmark constitution was adopted in 1809. 

The Philippines pursues collaborations with Brunei’s leading oil and gas companies in the Philippines’ growing renewable energy sector.

In the recent Indo-Pacific Business Forum held in Manila, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr bared his plan to lead the renewable energy revolution in the Indo-Pacific.

Marcos’ investment appeal during a meeting with executives from Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP), Brunei LNG (BLNG), TotalEnergies Brunei, Serikandi Oilfield Services, and Adinin Group of Companies, on the sidelines of presidential visit to Brunei Darussalam on May 29.

Meanwhile, Department of Trade and Industry Fred Pascual provided added information to Brunei petroleum and power executives about the Philippines roadmap to renewable energy and current administration’s investment-friendly policy that attracts more foreign investor.

“Our country holds tremendous potential for clean energy, with abundant solar, wind, and tidal resources waiting to be harnessed. Brunei’s proven track record in energy projects positions you as a key partner in unlocking this potential. With this, we look forward to the partnerships that this meeting will forge as both of our countries take the lead in Southeast Asia’s clean energy future,” said Pascual.

The Philippines recognizes Brunei’s extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, as well as its recent efforts to diversify its energy mix through renewable energy, as outlined in Brunei Vision 2035. Brunei’s oil and gas companies with their long history of success in the sector are uniquely positioned to contribute valuable knowledge and experience to the Philippines’ renewable energy development.

On the other hand, the Philippines offers a compelling investment proposition with its abundant solar, wind, and tidal energy resources. Strengthening its investment appeal, the country gained an impressive economic growth of 5.6% last year, the fastest in Southeast Asia.

The meeting explored collaborative opportunities as the Philippines sought to learn from the experiences of Bruneian companies, following the latter’s transition to renewable energy investments. Discussions focused on key factors influencing investment decisions in renewable energy projects that allow the Philippines to optimize its approach to attract Bruneian investment.

As part of the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to push for renewable energy investments, the DTI and other government agencies have implemented policies like the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 to ease foreign equity restrictions for these projects.

The DTI also unlocked a surge in renewable energy investment through programs like the Green Lanes Initiative, which streamlined approvals and offered compelling incentives.

Meanwhile, the recent enactment of the Public-Private Partnership Code further bolstered the country’s investment climate through stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors. This accelerates infrastructure development, another key driver of economic expansion.

In addition, the 2022 Strategic Investment Priority Plan positions agriculture, fishery, forestry, and renewable energy across all of its three tiers. This presents them with significant investment opportunities through incentives under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act, which offer tax breaks for up to 17 years and government support extending up to 40 years.

“The Philippines is taking a big step forward with the creation of these initiatives. By streamlining the investment process, prioritizing key sectors, and offering attractive incentives, we are sending a clear message: The Philippines is open for business and committed to sustainable economic growth. We look forward to a successful partnership with Brunei’s energy leaders,” said the trade chief.

On November 3, in Manila, Mr. KOSHIKAWA Kazuhiko, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of the Philippines and Hon. Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines signed and exchanged notes for 600 million yen in “Official Security Assistance (OSA)” grant aid in the presence of Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, and H.E. Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines. 

OSA was established in 2023 as a new cooperation framework for the benefit of armed forces and other related organizations of recipient countries with the aim of deepening our security cooperation with the countries, creating a desirable security environment, and contributing to maintaining and strengthening international peace and security, by enhancing their security and deterrence capabilities through the provision of equipment and supplies as well as assistance for the development of infrastructures. This is the first OSA programme to be implemented after its establishment. 

The Philippines faces important sea lanes for Japan including the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait. To ensure the safety and security of these sea lanes, it is very timely and crucial that the maritime domain awareness (MDA) capabilities of the Department of National Defense, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines and especially the Philippine Navy, are enhanced for the effective monitoring of these sea lanes and waters. 

This programme aims to provide coastal radar systems to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, in particular, the Philippine Navy which is expected to strengthen its coastal surveillance and MDA capabilities and to contribute to maintenance and enhancement of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Much as he wanted to stay longer in the Philippines, Japan Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio’s visit can be described as “short and sweet”.

PM Kishida who arrived with his spouse Mrs. KISHIDA Yuko on November 3 was able to accomplished a lot of important agenda during his visit two-days visit.

Yesterday, November 3 upon arrival, he immediately proceeded to Manila at Rizal Park to offer flowers at the monument of Dr.Jose Rizal, the Philippinebnational hero.

After which, the Japanese Prime Minister held several meetings. The first meeting was with the Japanese Business Representatives of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines. PM Kishida discussed the current business situation in the Philippines and the outlook for Japan-Philippines economic relations.Japan-Philippines.

Thereafter, a summit meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and his Cabinet Secretaries was held. Those who joined Marcos were Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. While Prime Minister Kishida was joined by Mr. MORIYA Hiroshi, Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, and Mr. MORI Masafumi, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister.

After the meeting, a joint press statement was issued by both Prime Minister Kishida and President Marcos. In his opening statement, President Marcos welcomed Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to the Philippines and expressed heartfelt gratitude to him and his desire to further strengthen bilateral relations.

For his part, Prime Minister Kishida stated that mutual visits by the leaders is a testament to the strong bilateral relationship and that he would like to enhance cooperation in maintaining and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law as well as ensuring a world where human dignity is respected.

Prime Minister Kishida also expressed his condolences to the people of the Philippines who fell victim to the terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants.

On bilateral relation specially in Security and Defense Cooperation, Marcos expressed his hope to further deepen bilateral relations through a steady follow-up on the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement on February, and to make concrete progress in bilateral cooperation projects together with Japan.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Kishida welcomed the signing of the Exchange of Notes concerning the provision of coastal surveillance radar system, which is the first cooperation project under the Official Security Assistance (OSA), and explained that Japan would continue to strengthen cooperation on defense equipment and technology, including the transfer of warning and control radars, and maritime security capacity building, including the provision of patrol vessels.

The two leaders welcomed the start of negotiations on the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), and also concurred to proceed coordination to steadily conduct bilateral consultations on security and defense, including the holding of Foreign and Defense Ministers’ Meeting (“2+2”). Furthermore, they concurred to enhance further collaboration in such areas as cyber security and economic security through promoting Japan-U.S.-Philippines cooperation.

Economic and People-to-people Exchange

Prime Minister Kishida stated that both the public and private sectors would continue to support President Marcos’ “Build Better More” policy, including the development of infrastructure such as the Dalton Pass East Alignment Alternative Road and the Manila Metro Subway. In response, President Marcos expressed his appreciation for Japan’s support.

Prime Minister Kishida welcomed the signing of Exchange of Notes concerning the provision of construction equipment for disaster quick response operation under the economic and social development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and stated that Japan would continue to support the peace process in accordance with its progress.

President Marcos expressed his appreciation for Japan’s support and contribution to the peace process in Mindanao. The two leaders confirmed to pursue the possibility of public-private partnership in infrastructure development together with ODA through the Japan-Philippines High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation, and to promote the creation of innovation under collaboration among businesses including through industrial cooperation dialogues, in order to strengthen bilateral economic ties.The two leaders concurred to promote cooperation in the areas of the improvement of investment environment, information and telecommunications including Open RAN, smart agriculture, decarbonization and energy including collaboration on the “Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC)” concept.

They also welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation on tourism to strengthen collaboration between the two countries in this field as well as the Memorandum of Cooperation on mining that contributes to developing sustainable society.

Regional and International Situation

Regarding regional affairs, from the viewpoint that unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force should never be tolerated, the two leaders shared serious concerns on the situation in the East and South China Seas.

With regard to the situation in Israel and Palestine, Prime Minister Kishida resolutely condemned the terror attacks by Hamas and others. Prime Minister Kishida also explained Japan’s position that it is vital (i) to immediately release hostages and secure safety of civilians, (ii) for all the parties to act in accordance with international law, (iii) to prevent the instability from spilling over to neighboring countries, (iv) to calm down the situation as soon as possible, and (v) to improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

The two leaders also concurred that they would continue to cooperate in addressing various regional and international challenges such as North Korea.

Document Exchange Ceremony and Joint Press Occasion

In the presence of the two leaders, the following documents on bilateral cooperation were exchanged.

Exchange of Notes for OSA to the Republic of the Philippines concerning the provision of coastal surveillance radar system.

Exchange of Notes for ODA to the Republic of the Philippines concerning the provision of construction equipment for disaster quick response operation in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Memorandum of Cooperation in the Field of Tourism Between the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan and the Department of Tourism of the Republic of the Philippines.

Memorandum of Cooperation on Mining Sector Between the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Republic of the Philippines

After the Document Exchange Ceremony, the two leaders held a Joint Press Occasion.