Rookie Impact Key as U.S. and Europe Prepare for Ryder Cup Clash at Bethpage Black

As the Ryder Cup unfolds this week at Bethpage Black, the U.S. squad is relying on a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent to secure victory. The American team includes 12 golfers ranked among the top 23 worldwide, with four first-time participants: Russell Henley, US Open champion J.J. Spaun, Ben Griffin, and Cameron Young. United States captain Keegan Bradley highlighted the rookies’ resilience, noting, \"All these guys that are rookies, they performed at the highest level when they needed to make the team. Being a bubble guy, I think, is the hardest amount of pressure I’ve ever played under. If you can go out there and win under those conditions, you can play well anywhere.\" Europe's side, led by captain Luke Donald, brings back 11 of the 12 players from their victorious 2023 campaign in Rome. The sole newcomer is Dane Rasmus Hojgaard, who replaces his twin brother Nicolai. Donald encouraged the new team member, advising, \"Embrace the week as much as possible. You never know when it’s going to be your last. Being here is great, but it’s your opportunity to contribute now. It’s one thing to qualify, but you’re here to help the team.\" J.J. Spaun, currently ranked sixth globally, ended a three-year stretch without a win in spectacular fashion and faced tough playoff losses, including one against European star Rory McIlroy at the Players Championship. He has actively sought guidance from veterans to prepare mentally for the tournament. \"Just trying to pick their brains," Spaun explained. "I just want to know how they feel, so I can get an estimation of how I’ll most likely feel. The common theme is everyone is very nervous, so if you feel nervous, don’t worry, everyone else is as well.\" Justin Thomas, with seven wins in 13 matches and making his fourth Ryder Cup appearance, reassured Spaun. \"He’s like, you earned your spot on this team, don’t feel like this is a handout or a pick. You have a major that a lot of us are very jealous of and you deserve to be on this team," Spaun recalled. "Hearing that has helped me feel like I fit in more as a core player than a rookie... so that’s huge for my confidence.\" Fellow rookie Russell Henley celebrated his recent career milestone, stating, \"I’m still kind of pinching myself. This is a dream come true. I’m just so excited and thankful. I feel like a little kid or something. It’s really fun.\" Henley earned his fifth career title at Bay Hill and notched 10 top-10 finishes this season. Ben Griffin, with a strong record including a victory at Colonial and 11 top-10s this year, stressed the need for the team to perform at their peak. \"We’re going to have to bring our A-game and play really well,\" Griffin remarked. Cameron Young, the most recent rookie, claimed his first PGA title at the Wyndham Championship and has already accumulated eight top-10 finishes in 2025. Two-time major winner Xander Schauffele acknowledged the balance of giving and gaining advice within the team. \"I’m just trying to get some advice from them. They’ve been kicking my ass all year and playing unbelievable golf. That goes for all our rookies on this team," Schauffele said. "If they have any questions, I try to help them, but they’re very accomplished and I’m not too worried about them.\" With both teams bringing a mix of experience and new energy, the Ryder Cup battle at Bethpage Black promises to be fiercely contested.

Leadership Changes at AllDay and AllHome Follow Earnings Decline and Supplier Payment Issues

MANILA, Philippines – Executives of Manny Villar’s retail companies AllDay and AllHome have resigned in the wake of declining financial performance during the first half of 2025 and reports concerning unpaid suppliers associated with the Villar-owned Coffee Project. In separate filings to the Philippine Stock Exchange on September 24, AllDay announced that acting president and chief operating officer Magdalena De Guzman has stepped down. AllHome similarly disclosed the resignation of its chief executive, Frances Roselle Coloma. Both companies described these departures as part of "organizational movements." George Anthonny Domingo will take over De Guzman’s role at AllDay, while Maribel Sibayan has been named acting president and COO of AllHome. These leadership changes follow an exclusive report revealing that Coffee Project, a sister company under the AllValue Group umbrella, owes millions of pesos to one of its suppliers. The Villar Group of Companies declined to comment directly on the matter but assured that all company obligations have been settled. The resignations come amid sharp declines in financial results. AllDay’s net income dropped by 83%, settling at P31 million for the first half of 2025, with revenue falling 41% to P2.8 billion. AllHome reported a 60% decrease in net income, bringing earnings to P113.8 million, accompanied by a 29% sales decline to P3.9 billion. Senator Camille Villar serves as vice-chair for both AllDay and AllHome. Following the announcements and financial disclosures, AllHome’s shares slid 5.6% to P0.335, while AllDay’s stock price declined 2.9% to P0.066 per share on September 24. The developments underscore ongoing challenges in the Villar Group’s retail operations amid tightening market conditions and scrutiny over financial practices.

Senator Tulfo Condemns PNVF Over Media Blackout and Ticket Pricing at Volleyball Championship

Senator Erwin Tulfo has called on the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) to provide an explanation following its decision to revoke the accreditation of Spin.ph and prohibit the site from covering the ongoing FIVB Men's World Championship in Manila. The move came shortly after Spin.ph published reports criticizing the steep ticket prices for the tournament. Tulfo condemned the action as a clear violation of press freedom, stating, \"This is censorship. This is curtailment of freedom of the press. As a journalist all my life, I condemn this act of blocking our noble reporters\' freedom to write for the press. Those responsible for obstructing our colleagues in the media must be held accountable.\" He emphasized that journalists have an essential right to disseminate the truth, particularly in an era flooded with misinformation on social media, adding, \"Every journalist has the right to write or broadcast the truth—because these days, there is so much fake news, especially on social media—and no one should be allowed to prevent this.\" The issue gained further traction when Senator Risa Hontiveros and Tulfo collectively criticized the federation, led by Ramon \"Tats\" Suzara, not only for the ticket pricing but also for permitting an online gambling company as a sponsor of the event. Tickets were initially priced between PHP 14,000 to 18,000, prompting outrage before discounts were eventually introduced. Hontiveros expressed disappointment over the prohibitive cost, stressing that it alienated many Filipino volleyball fans eager to support the sport and the national teams. \"It\'s regrettable because there\'s a growing number of Filipino volleyball enthusiasts who want to watch and cheer for the games, our national teams, and other squads loved by Filipinos,\" she said. \"Why were tickets made unaffordable for ordinary people who just want to enjoy the matches?\" Senator Tulfo also linked the expensive ticket prices to the notably low attendance at many games, which he described disparagingly as being \"like a ghost town,\" underlining concerns that the sport\'s growing popularity is undermined by these barriers. The controversy raises broader questions about transparency, sponsorship ethics, and media access in Philippine sports management amid a surge of local and international volleyball interest.

Police Confiscate P2 Million in Smuggled Onions and Fake Cigarettes in Manila Raids

Law enforcement officials in Manila have conducted two separate raids in Quiapo, resulting in the seizure of illicit goods valued at nearly P2 million. According to Lt. Nadame Malang, spokesperson of the PNP Highway Patrol Group, two truck drivers were apprehended on Carlos Palanca Street after being stopped for traffic violations. Upon inspection, authorities discovered around 1,200 sacks of smuggled onions in their trucks, estimated to be worth P1.35 million. One of the drivers was detained for presenting falsified documents. In a separate operation near Quinta Market, police intercepted a vendor loading counterfeit cigarettes into a van. The suspect could not provide any authorization papers and admitted that the merchandise was fake. The police confiscated eight boxes of counterfeit cigarettes valued at P600,000. Investigators are actively tracing the origins of the smuggled and counterfeit products as well as identifying the organizations responsible for these illegal activities. These enforcement efforts underscore ongoing measures to combat smuggling and counterfeit goods within the city.

Quezon Club at Solaire North Set to Launch with Luxe Dining and Signature Cocktails

Quezon City, widely recognized for its major universities and media hubs, now welcomes an upscale addition to its vibrant landscape with the imminent launch of Quezon Club at Solaire Resort North. Scheduled to open on September 26, this exclusive venue promises a sophisticated nightlife experience in the bustling metropolis. Guests attending a recent preview described the setting as a harmonious blend of tropical elegance and contemporary design. The club’s interiors boast chic cane furniture, luxurious brocade fabrics, and plush cushions adorned with exotic animal motifs, all complemented by intricate themed details on fine china. The evening was elevated by international dance performances set against crystal-clear LED visual displays featuring classic hits by Madonna and Mariah Carey. The culinary offerings highlight a bold, internationally inspired menu. Signature dishes include a Lamb Rack served with sweet snap pea puree and port wine jus, priced at PHP 2,200, and a Sous Vide Duck Breast accompanied by sweet potato, orange jus, and cowboy beans, at PHP 2,800. Sandro Alessandrini, Director of Food and Beverage at Solaire Resort North, likened the culinary style to "London luxury brasseries," reflecting the polished yet approachable nature of the cuisine. Complementing the gourmet fare is an inventive cocktail list, blending global influences with local flavors. Among standout creations is the Amorsolo Rice Highball, which incorporates traditional Filipino ingredients such as pandan syrup and horchata fizz. Another notable drink, the Sabel’s Appletini — inspired by National Artist Benedicto Cabrera’s muse — combines French calvados with pear vermouth and apple bitters, delivering a potent yet refined taste. The club’s inventive mixology also includes the Spillarium, a deceptively smooth cocktail featuring tequila and corn cordial with a unique dissolvable art element, and the sparkling Sonata Lady, incorporating Dewar’s 15 Years whiskey and honey ginger syrup. The Breakfast Arabesque, blending gin with banana syrup and cereal milk, also impressed visitors. The highlight of the evening was the Bird Seller Boulevard, a creative twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, crafted with Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Tomato Vermouth, and Salted Egg House Amaro. Served theatrically inside a giant ceramic egg housed in a birdcage, this savory cocktail paired with a salted egg rim left a memorable impression. The Smoked Genesis, a spicy and warming concoction featuring mezcal, tequila, pineapple arugula saccharum, and balsamic vinegar, was the preferred choice for many, praised for its bold flavor that complemented live dance performances. As Mr. Alessandrini emphasized, "We are quite unique as a venue in Quezon City. I don’t think there’s anything as high-end as we are: obviously in a luxury five-star resort." With its blend of upscale design, exquisite cuisine, and creative beverages, Quezon Club at Solaire North is poised to become a premier destination for nightlife and dining in the city.

Megaworld to Expand Innovative Flood Control Solution Across Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Megaworld Corporation is set to expand its pioneering flood control initiative, the Rainwater Park, to several townships nationwide as part of its commitment to alleviate flooding challenges experienced by local communities. Kevin Tan, president and CEO of Alliance Global Group Inc., which owns Megaworld, revealed in a social media video that the company will replicate the Rainwater Park model, initially developed in Capital Town, Pampanga. This 35-hectare township has demonstrated substantial success in managing floodwaters and preventing flooding in adjacent areas. "Before development, heavy rains would cause the area near the capital building to flood waist-deep, and it took up to a week for waters to recede, severely disrupting the community," Tan explained. "In planning Capital Town, we prioritized addressing this problem." At the center of Capital Town lies a two-hectare Rainwater Park featuring an above-ground water retention facility capable of holding 3.7 million gallons — equivalent to six Olympic-sized swimming pools. This system collects rainwater via box culverts from the surrounding city and gradually drains it into local river systems when weather conditions permit. Unlike typical underground retention systems, Megaworld's design incorporates a lagoon-like environment that supports recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing. The park also serves as a communal hub, featuring amenities like jogging paths, a football field, and a playground, and has emerged as a notable tourist attraction. Tan emphasized the broader vision for this model, saying, "Flood control remains a critical priority in the country. We aim to transform this challenge into an opportunity by embedding sustainable solutions into our developments." Future projects incorporating the Rainwater Park concept are planned for townships in Marilao and Bocaue in Bulacan, as well as in Cavite and other flood-prone areas. Tan highlighted the collaborative potential of such initiatives, noting, "This exemplifies how the private sector can work hand-in-hand with government to deliver effective solutions that foster community cohesion and resilience." Through this expansion, Megaworld signals its continued dedication to integrating environmental management with urban development to enhance the safety and quality of life for communities nationwide.

Trump Challenges Global Climate Policies, Reaffirms U.S. Energy Dominance at UN

At the United Nations assembly, President Donald Trump delivered a pointed critique of current global climate policies, labeling them as exaggerated threats that have led to significant economic burdens without substantial benefits. He argued these policies have contributed to rising energy costs and the decline of the American industrial sector. Trump emphasized his commitment to restoring U.S. energy leadership centered around nuclear power and natural gas. He stated, \"Climate change, like every other issue, is a tradeoff,\" accusing the incumbent administration of raising electricity prices by 25 percent, closing dependable power plants, and weakening the nation’s manufacturing base. \"We\'re going to bring back data, science, and honest dialogue — no more cancel culture,\" he added. Following the president’s remarks, Energy Secretary Chris Wright elaborated on this stance during a press conference. Wright announced the Department of Energy's plan to return over $13 billion in unused subsidies for renewable energy and electric vehicle programs to the U.S. Treasury. \"Thirty-three years of subsidies for wind and solar is enough,\" Wright asserted. \"If these industries cannot stand on their own after decades, maybe they\'re not businesses going places. We need firm, reliable energy — not fragile grids and higher prices.\" Wright clarified that no offshore wind projects have been canceled but noted several are currently paused due to litigation and environmental reviews involving fisheries and endangered species, such as right whales. He highlighted the limitations of wind and solar power during peak demand periods — such as cold winter nights and prolonged calm weather — when consistent energy supply is critical. \"If you\'re going to be useful on the grid, you have to be there 24/7,\" he explained. Both Trump and Wright underscored nuclear energy and natural gas as the most pragmatic solutions to support artificial intelligence advancements, revive U.S. industry, and reduce consumer energy costs. Wright further dismissed electric vehicles as ineffective in reducing carbon emissions and pledged support for domestic mining of rare earth elements and lithium, pointing to projects in Wyoming, Arkansas, and Nevada. On the international front, the administration outlined its strategic partnerships: - **India**: The U.S. seeks to deepen collaboration on gas, coal, nuclear energy, and clean fuels, while encouraging New Delhi to reduce its reliance on Russian oil. - **Europe**: Washington urges accelerated efforts to transition away from Russian gas, promoting U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a reliable alternative. - **Alaska LNG**: Wright announced that an 800-mile pipeline project could commence construction within a year, supported by Japanese, Korean, and American investors. - **Middle East & Caucasus**: The U.S. expressed support for oil and gas developments in Kurdistan and positioned Azerbaijan as a key energy corridor to Europe. This renewed approach reflects the administration’s intent to fortify American energy infrastructure, foster global energy partnerships, and prioritize stable, cost-effective energy solutions over subsidized renewable initiatives.

Philippine DFA Advises Caution for Filipino H-1B Workers Amid New US Visa Fee Policy

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued a caution to Filipino workers in the United States holding H-1B visas, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel outside the US while awaiting clarification on re-entry rules under a newly implemented visa fee policy. Under the policy introduced by the US administration, a one-time fee of $100,000 now applies to certain H-1B visa applications. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous fees, which ranged between $2,000 and $5,000. The DFA highlighted potential complications for Filipino workers who travel abroad, noting that employers facilitating their employees\' return may be responsible for covering this substantial fee. The agency advised that if travel outside the US is unavoidable, affected individuals should seek prior consultation with their employers to manage any additional costs incurred. "Should travel outside the US be unavoidable, we encourage them to consult their employers in advance, as employers may be required to shoulder additional costs, such as the one-time fee of USD 100,000, when facilitating their employee\'s re-entry," the DFA stated on September 24. However, the DFA reassured the Filipino community that only a small fraction—approximately 1.3%—of all H-1B visa holders are Filipinos. Moreover, those already residing in the US with valid H-1B visas issued before September 21 are exempt from the fee and can continue to travel without restrictions relating to the new regulation. The US immigration authorities clarified that the $100,000 charge applies exclusively to new H-1B visa petitions filed after September 21. Visa renewals or extensions for existing workers remain unaffected. The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., along with Consulates General across the US, committed to closely monitoring the implementation of this proclamation and providing support and guidance to Filipino nationals as necessary. The H-1B visa program, established in 1990, permits US employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty fields such as healthcare, technology, and finance. It has been a critical tool for American companies, particularly in the tech sector, to fill skills shortages by hiring specialized professionals abroad. Historically, applicants from China and India represent the majority of H-1B visa recipients, especially in computer-related occupations. These groups may experience the most pronounced impact from the recent policy change.

Philippines Promotes Palawan and Cebu to Korean Travel Agents in Familiarization Tour

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Korea, conducted a familiarization tour for Korean travel agents from August 17 to 23, 2025. The program aimed to showcase Palawan and Cebu as top Philippine destinations known for their scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and luxury tourism offerings, thereby enhancing tourism cooperation with South Korea. Nine travel agents from Korea participated in the immersive seven-day journey, exploring world-renowned sites tailored to appeal to South Korean visitors. In Palawan, participants visited the UNESCO World Heritage site Puerto Princesa Underground River, enjoyed island-hopping excursions in Honda Bay, and experienced high-end resorts, eco-tourism attractions, and cultural landmarks. The tour concluded in Cebu, where agents engaged with the city’s historic sites, vibrant arts scene, and diverse local cuisine. TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles commented on the initiative, stating, \"By introducing Korea’s key travel partners to the Philippines’ unique destinations, we aim to attract more Korean tourists to our country. Palawan and Cebu beautifully represent our nation’s natural splendor, hospitality, and cultural depth. We eagerly anticipate welcoming more visitors to experience them directly.\" For the Korean participants, the trip highlighted the Philippines’ distinct tourism appeal. Nam Eun Young of JP World remarked, \"Palawan’s extraordinary nature and Cebu’s rich cultural offerings form a perfect combination that will captivate Korean travelers. We look forward to developing new travel packages that emphasize these attractions for our clients.\" South Korea continues to be a significant source market for Philippine tourism, with 903,751 Korean visitors recorded as of September 1, 2025, according to DOT statistics. Familiarization tours like this one strengthen partnerships with Korean agencies and support the Philippines’ position as a preferred leisure and cultural travel destination. The successful execution of the Korean Travel Agents Familiarization Tour was made possible through cooperation with various hospitality partners, including The Funny Lion, Astoria Palawan, Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa, Hue Hotel and Resorts, Microtel by Wyndham Puerto Princesa, Best Western Plus The Ivywall Hotel, and Cowrie Island Resort.

DPWH Secretary Condemns ‘Ghost’ Flood-Control Project at Culaman Bridge in Davao Occidental

Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon harshly criticized local DPWH officials on Thursday following an inspection of the Culaman Bridge flood-control project in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, which he labeled a "ghost" project. Awarded in 2021 during the previous administration to St. Timothy Construction, a firm linked to Pacifico “Curlee” and Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya, the project showed minimal to no visible progress despite official records indicating full payment and completion by 2022. Dizon’s site visit was conducted alongside Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) special adviser and Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Upon discovery of the discrepancies between the payment records and the actual work done, the ICI declared the location a "crime scene" and immediately halted all ongoing works. Expressing outrage, Dizon confronted the local DPWH leadership, questioning why a project designed to protect local residents and students remained unconstructed despite complete payment. In a firm rebuke, he reprimanded the district engineer with strong language and vowed to hold accountable anyone involved in fraudulent, substandard, or nonexistent flood-control projects. Highlighting St. Timothy Construction as the contract recipient, Dizon noted that this company and others connected to the Discaya family have been under scrutiny for similar flood-control contracts amid complaints arising from Bulacan and other regions. The ICI and its members have persistently demanded explanations from contractors and DPWH personnel as investigations into the broader flood-control program continue. From the inspection site, Dizon issued a stern warning to all DPWH district engineers and regional directors, emphasizing the commission's resolve to uncover and address any irregularities. He stated, "I don’t care if all the DEs in the Philippines are gone… If it’s necessary to run out of you all, we will run you out." He further stressed that officials who approved or certified projects without proper verification would face removal and potential administrative or criminal charges. This incident adds to growing concerns about numerous high-value flood-control contracts awarded since 2022, which critics argue have been disproportionately awarded to a limited group of contractors. Multiple government entities including the Office of the President, the ICI, and the Ombudsman have initiated inquiries and issued show-cause orders to reconcile discrepancies between payment records and actual site conditions. While St. Timothy Construction has denied some ownership links cited by investigators and disputed certain claims, the investigations proceed. Authorities emphasize the immediate need to thoroughly document the irregularities observed at the Culaman Bridge site and to preserve the area for ongoing investigations. Administrative and criminal referrals are being prepared for DPWH staff and involved contractors who certified or accepted either nonexistent or deficient work. Secretary Dizon has already initiated or threatened disciplinary and legal measures against implicated DPWH officials in previous flagged cases, signaling a more stringent enforcement approach by the agency moving forward.