SAN SIMON, Pampanga — The opening of the Farm Fresh milk plant in San Simon town in Pampanga is seen to boost the country’s production and supply of milk and other dairy products.
President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R. Marcos Jr., who led the inauguration of the facility on Oct. 3, emphasized that it will ensure a more effective milk production, and bring hope for a brighter future to Filipinos.
“With the help of this facility, we can now produce up to 32 million liters of pasteurized milk and 2.4 million liters of yogurt every year,” he said.
Also, the plant will also open new livelihood opportunities for farmers and farm workers in the countryside.
Marcos underscored that this is also part of his administration’s response to the struggles faced by the country’s dairy industry.
“We cannot deny that our dairy industry continues to face several challenges. One of which is our heavy dependence on imported dairy products. Climate change has further strained our ability to produce milk locally. We also need modern facilities that can effectively collect and process dairy products,” he mentioned.
Through the milk plant, Filipino farmers and veterinarians will have more stable and dignified jobs.

More livelihood opportunities for the rural community

Farm Fresh Berhad Founder and Group CEO Loi Tuan Ee underscored that the facility will generate more jobs ranging from manufacturing, office and administration, sales and marketing, and distribution.
“We believe that for a country, you want to develop, you want to be inclusive, and when you want to be inclusive, you have to give opportunity to the rural people… give them jobs, because there are not so many opportunities in the rural area,” he stated.
The milk plant is the first part of Farm Fresh’s dairy investment in the country. It also seeks to build a P1 billion large-scale dairy farm and a processing plant.
“What we want to do is we want a bigger processing plant and incorporate our dairy farm. We have the cows producing the milk and a production plant making the product and then we sell it to the market,” he said.
The company pledged to play its part in addressing the Philippines’ food security, and milk sufficiency level.

Improving the PH’s dairy industry

Meanwhile, Farm Fresh Milk Inc. CEO Shawn Pu stated that the company will aid the Philippines’ dairy farming industry by passing on to the local farmers the farming expertise in Malaysia.
“A few months ago, we had a dairy farming seminar in collaboration with the National Dairy Authority, and we invited more than a hundred farmers in Luzon to join us in the seminar. We shared our technical expertise, what works best in how to handle the milk, the milk hygiene, how ingredients affect the milk quality, and also most importantly, we shared our partnership program,” he narrated.
The company will also buy milk from the farmers at a fair market price to ensure that there is a consistent demand source.
In addition, Pu explained that they will explore how local dairy farmers get the right equipment to make sure that their milk is retaining the best quality that they can.
“For a pasteurized milk industry, it is very important that the cold chain is sustained. You need to make sure of the temperature requirement, all the way from the farm to the table of the consumer. That is something that is really important, and also, we need to enable local dairy farmers to have the capability to do that,” he added.
Farm Fresh will also seek to create partnerships with local universities with agriculture and animal husbandry backgrounds and employ their graduates.
In support of the local milk industry, the Marcos administration is strengthening the implementation of the Dairy Industry Development Program.
It provides loans to farmers, distributes dairy animals, and conducts training from dairy management and dairy husbandry up to breeding.
“Rest assured that this administration continues to pursue programs that would hasten the processing of our dairy products. We are currently studying technologies to increase local milk production and ways to attract more investments in the dairy industry,” Marcos shared.
The national government is also working closely with the private sector to extend support to farmers and farm workers. (PIA 3-Pampanga)

MANILA – The creation of an independent body to investigate flood control anomalies will be finalized “very, very soon,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Tuesday.
“I don’t want to talk about it, until buo na. Di pa namin nabubuo ‘yung plano eh. Pero malapit na ‘yan, very very soon (I don’t want to talk about it until it’s finalized. The plan is not complete yet. But it’s coming very, very soon),” Marcos told reporters in Subic, Zambales.
Marcos made the remark when asked whether Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong would be part of the independent panel that would look into the alleged irregularities in the implementation of flood control projects.
Newly installed Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon said the initial findings of the agency’s internal committee, formed to investigate flood control projects under scrutiny, would be transmitted to the independent fact-finding body.
This, as Dizon said, the DPWH’s internal investigation team for flood control projects would be abolished within the day.
“Para po sa akin, nagsalita na po ang Pangulo. Magtatayo po siya ng independent commission. Ibigay po natin sa independent commission ang responsibilidad at (In my opinion, the President has already spoken. He will establish an independent commission. Let’s give the independent commission the responsibility and) authority to investigate,” he said.
“Naiintindihan ko po noong panahon po na nabuo ang internal investigative committee o task force sa DPWH, wala pa pong sinabi ang ating Pangulo na merong independent commission. Pero ngayon pong meron na, respetuhin na lang po natin ang wisdom ng ating Pangulo. Kaya ‘yun po ay bubuwagin ko na po today (I understand that at the time the internal investigative committee or task force at DPWH was formed, our President had not yet said there would be an independent commission. But now that there is one, let’s just respect the wisdom of our President. That’s why I will dissolve that today),” Dizon added.
Dizon also welcomed Magalong’s possible inclusion in the independent investigating body.
“Kung ako po personally, napaka-welcome na development po niyan kung totoo (Personally, I think that would be a very welcome development if it were true),” he said.
Magalong earlier submitted to Marcos the documents detailing the alleged irregularities in the implementation of flood mitigation projects.
Dizon said that in the coming days, he would conduct site inspections in areas where flood control projects have been implemented. (PNA)

Manila—On June 4, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Assistant Administrator for Asia Michael Schiffer met with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the University of the Philippines-Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute (UP-EEEI) to finalize discussions on establishing the country’s first Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) Lab at UP Diliman.
In his meeting with DICT Assistant Secretary Philip Varilla and UP-EEEI Deputy Director Jaybie de Guzman, Assistant Administrator Schiffer discussed how the Lab, which will be housed at UP-EEEI, will provide hands-on training to current and aspiring local engineers and 5G professionals on how to design, build, test, and operate open networks.
“Open RAN networks in the United States have proven to be agile, rapidly deployable, and cost-efficient,” said Assistant Administrator Schiffer. “We want the Philippines to benefit from the same robust and secure network. The Open RAN Lab at UP Diliman will help develop talent to work on the Philippines’ own open network.”
Open RAN is a new approach to network architecture that opens up the telecommunications network, allowing mobile network operators to choose the best products and solutions from a variety of vendors. This approach can help mobile network operators to advance security, foster greater innovation and competition, lower costs, and facilitate 5G deployment.
“DICT welcomes innovations like Open RAN to help in bridging the divide. On our end, we commit to create a supportive policy and regulatory environment that will pave the way for efficient deployment of Open RAN technology,” said Assistant Secretary Varilla. “Advanced technologies like this will empower communities, foster economic growth, and position the Philippines at the forefront of digital innovation.”
“We are proud to host the Open RAN Lab at UP. This Lab will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research and development, training the next generation of experts who will lead the digital transformation of our country. It will not only enhance our academic and research capabilities but also demonstrate our dedication to contributing to the national effort of closing the digital gap and ensuring that all Filipinos have access to high-speed internet,” said Deputy Director De Guzman.
In May 2023, U.S. President Joe Biden announced USAID support for establishing an Open RAN Lab in Manila to advance the Philippines’ 5G rollout, strengthen its innovation economy, and provide digital opportunities to Philippine workers. The Open RAN Lab is being developed through USAID’s five-year Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) project, aimed at promoting economic growth through better internet in the Philippines.
Assistant Administrator Schiffer also traveled to Laoag June 3, becoming the first U.S. official from Washington to visit the Ilocos Region in at least a decade. He met with Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc and Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon to discuss ongoing development projects in the province and explore new opportunities. In Manila, Assistant Administrator Schiffer also delivered remarks at The Asia Clean Energy Forum, highlighting the importance of expanding renewable energy.

In celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) launched the “Biodiversity Crisis Escape Room”—an interactive new attraction at The Mind Museum in Taguig City where children and adults can learn more about safeguarding the natural world.
Developed in partnership with the Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. and funded through USAID’s Php1.35-billion ($25 million) Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans and Landscapes (SIBOL) initiative, the escape room offers a hands-on learning experience for visitors who will have to solve unique biodiversity-related puzzles and challenges to exit the room. Younger visitors will also enjoy the escape room’s accompanying television program called “MIND S-COOL” which features puppet characters navigating through a biodiversity crisis.
The “Biodiversity Crisis Escape Room” at The Mind Museum will run until May 31, with tickets priced at Php150. Following its run in Taguig City, the attraction will also tour other locations, including Subic (Harbor Point, June 15-16), Puerto Princesa City (Robinson’s Mall, June 29-30), and Davao City (Abreeza Mall, July 27-28). The escape room will eventually return as a regular attraction at The Mind Museum in August.
“Biodiversity loss not only threatens the survival of countless species but also undermines the stability of ecosystems and the services they provide, impacting human well-being and livelihoods,” USAID Philippines Deputy Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks said. “We must all become active participants in this plan to safeguard the country’s rich biodiversity for future generations.”
During the launch, USAID Philippines Deputy Mission Director Eubanks also handed over to DENR Undersecretary for Legal and Administration Ernesto Adobo Jr. the “Sukat ng Kalikasan” (“Measurement of Nature”) toolkit. Developed over three years by USAID and DENR also under USAID’s SIBOL initiative, “Sukat ng Kalikasan” offers standardized, evidence-based methods for measuring and assessing the value of the country’s natural assets, allowing the Philippine government to make more informed decisions in its conservation efforts.
“’Sukat ng Kalikasan,’ translated as ‘Measurement of Nature,’ is a product of our collective action to measure the country’s ecological, socio-economic and cultural values and baselines. Its approach improves the accuracy of determining conservation targets and measuring ecosystem services,” DENR Undersecretary for Legal and Administration Adobo Jr. said. “Customized for the Philippine context, its objective is to appreciate the values that our ecosystems provide, so that we are in a more resilient position to manage our natural resources sustainably while achieving our development goals.”
The Philippines is one of 18 megadiverse countries in the world, hosting 70 percent of the Earth’s flora and fauna. Through SIBOL, USAID supports the Philippines’ efforts to achieve a resilient environment and inclusive green growth.

On May 13, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) launched a new fellowship program for Philippine academic officials that will equip them to develop innovative and high-impact programs in higher education.
The Higher Education Innovation Leaders Fellowship Program, part of USAID’s five-year, Php1.6-billion ($30 million) United States-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Life-long Learning (UPSKILL) initiative, will bring together 16 senior academic officials from across the Philippines for an 8-month learning experience that will empower them to drive innovation within their organizations.
“This fellowship program represents our investment in developing leaders who will inspire change and strengthen the country’s higher education sector through innovation and collaboration,” USAID Philippines Mission Director Ryan Washburn said during the launch.
The inaugural cohort is composed of two CHED officials and senior academic officials from Ateneo de Davao University, Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University Manila, De La Salle University Laguna, Far Eastern University, Mapua University, Mariano Marcos State University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Saint Louis University, University of the Philippines, and the University of San Carlos.
The fellows will engage in learning sessions covering global trends in higher education, driving organizational reforms, and crafting innovative solutions to enhance the impact of higher education programs. The highlight of the program is a week-long immersion at Arizona State University, ranked as one of the most innovative universities in the United States.
“These fellows will be bringing contributions and cultivating advocacies of transformation through the fellowship program. I look forward to seeing (them) working collectively toward a goal of a strengthened higher education system leading to inclusive growth in the Philippines,” CHED Chairman Dr. J. Prospero De Vera III said.
During the launch, USAID and CHED also signed a memorandum of understanding that formalizes the areas of collaboration between the United States and the Philippines under USAID’s UPSKILL program. Through UPSKILL, USAID will provide technical assistance in crafting the Philippines’ Higher Education Sectoral Development Plan and implementing the Philippine Qualifications Framework. USAID will also support the development of CHED’s One-Touch Management Information System, a unified platform that will help streamline access to essential services and data visualizations for CHED and its stakeholders.
USAID supports the Philippines’ efforts to strengthen its educational system. Since 2012, USAID has invested more than Php3 billion ($60 million) to improve Philippine higher education.

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines hosted the closing ceremony of Exercise Balikatan 2024, marking the successful conclusion of the largest annual combined military exercise between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States of America.
Over the past three weeks, Filipino, American, Australian, and French servicemembers trained shoulder-to-shoulder at locations throughout the Philippines to increase proficiency in maritime security, amphibious operations, combined arms, aviation operations, and information and cyberspace operations.
“It’s no coincidence that as democratic nations, the values we share are enshrined in our respective national anthems,” said U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. Michael Cederholm, U.S. Exercise Joint Task Force commander. “Those anthems talk about heroes, those that are brave, about defending freedom, and defending our respective shores from external attackers. I could not be prouder of the men and women in the field, the operational planning staffs, and all the enablers; they have truly made Balikatan 24 an incredible success.”
In addition to field training events, humanitarian civic assistance teams built schools and medical centers at four locations while training medical providers, gifting education supplies, and building relationships with local communities. All told, the HCA efforts injected nearly $50 million into locations throughout the country.
Service members from each of the participating countries and military services were in attendance, including representatives from 14 countries taking part in the exercise’s international observer program.
“Every Balikatan is increasingly more complex. This year has produced several new collaborations considering dynamic challenges across all domains,” said Armed Forces of the Philippines Maj. Gen. Marvin Licudine, Philippine exercise director.
This year’s exercises emphasized quality over quantity, with intentional focus on the complexity of concepts from planning to execution. The growing modernization of both the AFP and the U.S. military was evident throughout. Balikatan prepared the combined forces for potential contingencies and disasters and increased each country’s ability to work together to protect Philippine sovereignty and preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
“Exercise Balikatan stands as proof of our collective commitment to enhancing interoperability in support of long-term prosperity. Not only for participating nations, but for the world,” said Hon. MaryKay Los Carlson, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines.
Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. This year’s exercise marks the 39th iteration of the annual event, showcasing the ironclad Alliance and enduring friendship between the two nations. Approximately 16,000 Philippine and U.S. military personnel are participating.

Here’s how you can make most of the Honda EU32i S Inverter Generator

In times of need, whether it is during a sudden power outage or in remote areas without access to electricity, having a reliable generator can make all the difference. Honda Power Products, known for its commitment to innovation and quality, has been a cornerstone in providing power solutions. In the Philippines, where reliable backup power is essential, Honda generators have become indispensable for both residential and commercial use, offering a diverse range of applications.
Among Honda’s impressive lineup of generators, the Honda EU32i S inverter generator stands out as a beacon of efficiency, reliability, and innovation. Packed with advanced features, this generator exemplifies Honda’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for powering homes, businesses, and essential equipment.

Efficiency Redefined: Fuel Injection Technology
At the heart of the Honda EU32i S is its fuel-injected (FI) engine technology, setting it apart from traditional carbureted generators. This innovation not only enhances performance but also significantly improves fuel efficiency. Compared to its predecessor, the EU30i model, the EU32i consumes up to 26% less fuel at rated power, ensuring extended operating times without compromising on power output.

Control at Your Fingertips: Bluetooth Connectivity
One standout feature of the EU32i S is its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to monitor and control the generator remotely through the My Generator app. This intuitive app, available for both iOS and Android devices, provides real-time data on fuel levels, output power, and operational status, empowering users with unparalleled control and convenience.
Silent Operation and the Eco-throttle System Advantage
Honda EU32i S is also designed with the environment and user comfort in mind. Equipped with an Eco-Throttle system, the generator automatically adjusts its engine speed based on the load, maximizing fuel efficiency while minimizing noise levels.
Speaking of noise, the EU32i operates at remarkably low sound levels, producing only 91dB at rated power, comparable to the sound of a rotary lawnmower. Its lightweight design, weighing just 26.5 kg, further enhances its portability and ease of use, making it ideal for various applications, from camping trips to construction sites.
Versatile Applications: From Residential to Commercial Use

In addition to its residential applications, the Honda EU32i S plays a vital role in supporting various industries across the Philippines. From powering essential equipment in remote construction sites to providing backup power for events and festivals, this versatile generator is a trusted companion for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
With its blend of cutting-edge technology, fuel efficiency, and reliability, the Honda EU32i S inverter generator embodies Honda Power Product’s commitment to powering a brighter future for the Philippines. Whether in times of emergencies or everyday use, Honda generators continue to be a beacon of light, ensuring that the country remains powered up and connected, no matter the circumstances.
The Honda EU32i S inverter generator is now available at authorized Honda Power Product marine dealership in the Philippines.
For more information, https://hondapowerproducts.ph/. Stay updated on Honda’s newest products and by following Honda Power Products Philippines on Facebook (facebook.com/hondapowerproductsph).

Leading building solutions provider Holcim Philippines reiterated calls to accelerate the shift to sustainable construction in a series of activities with Philippine architects and Asian cement industry players.
During the United Architects of the Philippines’s 49th National Convention from April 18 to 21, Holcim Philippines engaged with over a thousand local architects and architecture students through a booth featuring its high-performance and environment-friendly green cements and innovative sustainable building solutions. Among the brands showcased was Tector, its line of dry-mix mortars providing superior performance for plastering and tile-laying.
At the 23rd Cementrade Asia Summit, a gathering of Asian cement manufacturing leaders on April 23-24, Holcim Philippines President and CEO Horia Adrian highlighted how the company’s accelerating decarbonization and circularity transformation is raising performance and supporting sustainable development.
Adrian highlighted the company’s success in growing blended cement volumes, increasing alternative fuels and raw materials usage, raising operational efficiencies with digitalization, and moving towards renewable energy. He added that while Holcim Philippines is making great progress in supporting climate-friendly and natural resource-efficient growth, closer collaboration with policymakers and construction industry professionals is needed to make sustainability the norm.
“These engagements are important to build ties that accelerate sustainable construction, which presents a tremendous opportunity for our sector to grow our economic contribution and positive developmental impact. To do this, we will continue programs and advocacies on building more with less materials, recycling materials from old buildings to construct new ones, and using smart design and materials,” he said.
Holcim Philippines Chief Sustainability Officer Samuel Manlosa, Jr. also moderated a panel on the role of policymakers and possible collaboration with cement makers in advancing the country’s net zero and sustainability goals. With Manlosa in the panel were Jerome Ilagan, Chief, Policy Research and Development, Climate Change Commission, Juliana Vergara, Assistant Director of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ Bureau of Research and Standards, and Christopher de la Cruz, Philippine Green Building Council CEO.