Hallmark Mining Corporation Honors Women’s Contributions to Community Development

 

As progressive as it truly is, Hallmark Mining Corporation (HMC) does not undervalue women in the community—it empowers them. Through the creation of the Women’s and Farmers’ Association, HMC recognizes and strengthens the vital role women play in community development.

The establishment of the Women’s and Farmers’ Association is a key initiative under HMC’s community partnerships, aimed at improving productivity and expanding income opportunities. Through seminars, livelihood film screenings, community-based planning, and project implementation, HMC provides women with access to knowledge, skills, and resources that enable them to become active contributors to both household stability and community growth.

These initiatives reflect HMC’s belief that empowering women is essential not only to individual advancement but also to the well-being of families and communities. Women’s participation across all aspects of community life strengthens social cohesion and drives sustainable development. By supporting and encouraging women’s involvement, HMC helps create pathways toward broader and more inclusive prosperity.

Moreover, women’s engagement in community-based planning and project implementation helps break down long-standing barriers that limit their voices and participation. By fostering inclusive spaces, HMC ensures that women are not only heard but are also directly involved in shaping programs that affect their lives and livelihoods.

One notable example is the capacity-building activity conducted among women’s organizations in Barangay Macambol, Mati, Davao Oriental, on June 11, 2023. This initiative strengthened leadership, organizational capacity, and collaboration among local women, further reinforcing their role in community development.

HMC firmly upholds that a vital component of sustainable nickel mining is the presence of healthy, happy, and empowered women and families. This perspective aligns with the World Bank (2020), which emphasizes that when women in mining communities are empowered, they are more likely to invest in family welfare, education, and overall community well-being.

Supporting this view, Kath Digdigan, a Senior Mine Geologist at TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc., highlights that women bring unique strengths to the industry. She explains that female intuition combined with forward-thinking, instinct, character, empathy, and meticulous attention to detail, adds significant value to the workplace. She further emphasizes that women bring “heart” into their roles—enhancing collaboration and purpose within organizations.

As supported by development studies, women’s involvement enhances community well-being, strengthens inclusivity, and promotes sustainable development. Their participation is not only beneficial but essential to long-term progress.

Through its continued support and empowerment of women’s participation, HMC not only breaks barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry but also demonstrates that women are crucial—not only in mining operations, but in advancing the overall health, resilience, and growth of the community. This underscores the importance of inclusive development, where investing in women leads to stronger, more sustainable futures for all.

CHIZ: ASEAN SUMMIT A GOOD OPPORTUNITY TO PUSH FOR REGIONAL FUEL-SHARING FRAMEWORK

 

As chair of this year’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Philippines is in a pivotal position to advance regional solidarity amid global energy uncertainty.  

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero said Manila must exert efforts to push forward the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA) and ensure member states can support one another during petroleum supply disruptions.  

The APSA is ASEAN’s proposed framework for emergency fuel-sharing, designed to allow member states to supply petroleum to neighbors facing shortages of at least 10 percent of their domestic needs. Its objectives are to stabilize energy supply, prevent economic shocks, and reinforce ASEAN’s collective resilience in times of crisis.  

The Bicolano senator noted that the APSA scheme is modeled after the International Energy Agency (IEA), which pioneered coordinated fuel-sharing among its members. 

“By accelerating APSA’s completion, ASEAN can establish its own mechanism for emergency fuel supply, triggered when a member state experiences a shortfall of at least 10 percent,” Escudero said.  

He added that this arrangement supports ASEAN’s three priority pillars—Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment—reflecting the region’s collective focus on resilience, economic integration, and community solidarity. 

“The current volatility in the Middle East highlights the urgency of a regional action, with oil prices rising and supply chains vulnerable. We have to act as one ASEAN,” he said.

The veteran lawmaker underscored that ASEAN’s fuel-sharing framework will be most effective if backed by member states with oil reserves and production capacity, such as Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. 

“Their role is crucial in anchoring the agreement. By pooling resources, ASEAN can ensure that emergency supplies are not only pledged but delivered when needed,” he said. “Fuel-sharing is not only about barrels of oil. It is also about trust, reciprocity, and the assurance that no member state will be left behind.”  

Escudero said that the Philippine chairmanship is both a responsibility and an opportunity. 

“This is our chance to lead ASEAN toward energy resilience. By working together, we can shield our region from external shocks and truly embody the theme of this year’s summit, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” with solidarity and shared purpose.” 

Lawmakers Rally Behind Fuel Tax Suspension to Curb Soaring Prices

 

MANILA, Philippines — Lawmakers are pushing for the swift enactment of a measure that would grant the President emergency powers to suspend excise taxes on petroleum products. The House Committee on Ways and Means recently approved a substitute bill consolidating 17 measures aimed at providing immediate relief to Filipinos as global oil markets face extreme volatility.

The proposed legislation amends the National Internal Revenue Code to allow for the suspension of the P10 per liter excise tax on gasoline and P6 per liter on diesel when certain triggers are met, such as Dubai crude reaching $80 per barrel or the declaration of a national emergency.

Strategic Response to Market Volatility

Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon hailed the committee's decision as a "timely and decisive response" to global supply disruptions. With potential diesel prices projected by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) to hit P96 per liter in a worst-case scenario, the suspension could lower retail prices to approximately P90.04.

“With tensions in key petroleum-producing regions threatening to disrupt global supply and push fuel prices higher, the Philippine government must have the necessary tools to respond quickly and decisively to protect Filipino consumers,” Ridon stated. He further urged the President to "immediately declare a state of national emergency so that the suspension or reduction of excise taxes on petroleum products can take effect in the soonest possible time."

Balancing Relief and Revenue

Former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, a primary author of the initiative, noted that while the government relies on these taxes for social services, the current spike justifies an intervention.

“An excise tax suspension or reduction will be a big relief to our people at this time of soaring fuel prices. A suspension would mean a retail price reduction of P6 to P10 per liter,” Romualdez said. While he initially preferred a permanent removal, he acknowledged the fiscal reality: “That would have been the ideal measure, but I also understand the need for the government to continue relying on billions in excise tax collections for vital social services.”

The Department of Finance has warned of a potential P136 billion revenue decline for 2026 if the taxes are removed through the end of the year. However, Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jan Chan emphasized that the priority remains the "ordinary Filipino."

“We welcome the approval of the House Ways and Means Committee proposal to give emergency authority to the President to temporarily suspend fuel excise tax if needed. In the midst of oil price volatility in the world market, it’s important that the government helps alleviate the burden of motorists and ordinary Filipino,” Chan said in Filipino.

Demanding Transparency from Oil Giants

A key point of contention during the deliberations was the "inventory lag" cited by oil companies, who claim prices cannot drop immediately until old, taxed stock is depleted. Romualdez countered this by demanding full disclosure of current inventories.

“They should declare what stocks they have that they would sell with excise taxes and what supply is coming which they would sell without these levies. For the good and guidance of our people,” Romualdez insisted.

The bill now moves forward for further plenary discussion as the government monitors the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its impact on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil trade.

Hallmark Mining Corporation Bolsters Green Mining Initiatives by Completing the Turnover of 100,000 Seedlings

True to its vision and mission, Hallmark Mining Company (HMC) has successfully distributed 100,000 high-value seedlings to partner People’s Organization across Mati City and Tarragona, Davao Oriental. This follows the government’s undertaking of Special Tree Cutting Permit (STCEP) Replacement Planting Initiative.

The turnover, and succeeding tree planting activity, was coordinated in close relation with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure that the seedlings are deployed to priority areas for reforestation sites under HMC’s Special Tree Cutting Permit and Earthballing Permit (STCEP).

On top of the priority areas are Brgy. Taguibo, Mati City and Brgy. Limot, Tarragona which received 30,000 and 20,000 seedlings respectively. This success is attributed to strong institutional partnership between government and industry.

The seedlings are guaranteed to act as a critical shield against soil erosion and flash floods during typhoon season. Simultaneously, the company ensures to provide high-value yielding seedlings to farmers.

Crops like durian and cacao are among the high-value crops donated by HMC to farmers as permanent livelihood assets, with the goal of boosting local economy.

Moreover, the involvement of communities and the company’s adherence to the internationally recognized principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) form part of their values. The recent coordination of Hallmark with Indigenous Peoples groups proves their commitment to this principle.

For HMC, complying with government efforts in combating environmental degradation is more than a regulatory requirement; it is a natural extension of the company’s core adherence to sustainable mining and community-led reforestation.

HMC’s mining methods, as echoed by Davao Oriental State University president Dr. Roy Ponce, “pose only a minimal impact on local biodiversity.” By extracting minerals in strategic “patches” rather than through traditional large-scale clearing, this practice ensures minimal disruption to the forest.

Patch mining keeps the surrounding areas intact while providing the ecosystem with sufficient recovery time. While nature heals, the company continues to move forward with its sustainable practices.

Butch Sebua, HMC’s Environmental Manager, stated that Hallmark’s consistency with its company values differentiates it from other mining corporations. “Here, we recognize that we are merely borrowing from nature. That’s why as much as we can, and with the help of the local government, we do our best to give back by ensuring sustainable mining practices.”

Through their environmental and community initiatives, HMC hopes to demonstrate that mining can be achieved without compromising Indigenous rights and with strict adherence to government regulations. This underscores both realization and accountability—successfully balancing the revival of a high-potential industry with a deep-seated duty to protect the land and its ancestral stewards.

Follow and stay tuned on HMC’s Facebook page to be part of the change:

https://www.facebook.com/hallmarkminingcorp

RTOA Davao Unveils Electric Taxis, Signals Shift Toward Sustainable Transport

In photo: LTFRB Region XI Director Nonito “Dondon” Llanos and RTOA Region XI President Ryan Sia lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony, formally marking the launch of EV taxis under the RTOA fleet.

DAVAO CITY, 19 February 2026 – The Regional Taxi Operators Association (RTOA), the largest coalition of local taxi operators in Davao City, has announced a pilot rollout of electric vehicles in its fleet, signaling a strategic shift toward more sustainable urban transport in the region. The initiative was unveiled during a press conference in Davao City, where RTOA presented the initial batch of electric taxi units now cleared to operate as part of its active fleet.

Representing approximately 70 percent of taxi operators in Davao, RTOA’s initiative reflects a collective effort by local operators to embrace cleaner mobility solutions while ensuring full compliance with existing transport regulations set by the local government and agencies such as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“As proud Davaoeños, we stand ready to help lead the shift to sustainable mobility for our kababayans,”  shared RTOA President Ryan Sia. “For decades, we have served Davaoeno commuters, and we welcome every opportunity to raise the standard of service they deserve. Today, we take a meaningful step forward – honoring our responsibility to the public and our duty to the future. We are honored to walk alongside the government in modernizing the local taxi fleet, moving hand in hand with operators and drivers toward a cleaner, safer, and more progressive Davao City.”

RTOA will proactively share operational learnings from the pilot, covering vehicle performance, charging patterns, cost efficiency, and rider feedback, with the local government and transport regulators, including the LTFRB, to help inform a collaborative roadmap for electric mobility in Davao. 

The group noted that regular updates from the pilot can guide practical decisions on charging infrastructure rollout and policy refinements, ensuring that regulations and support systems evolve in step with real-world operating conditions and build a more sustainable environment for EV adoption.

The initiative has the expressed support of the LTFRB, reinforcing RTOA’s position that the adoption of electric vehicles should proceed through established regulatory channels. 

“LTFRB acknowledges the importance of the Electric Vehicles Industry Development Act or EVIDA law. It's very necessary that we have to move forward, we have to transform our taxis into better, comfortable, reliable, environmental, friendly taxis to make sure that the triple S: satisfaction, security, and success will be experienced by our taxi drivers, operators and our passengers,” said LTFRB XI Regional Director Nonito “Dondon” Llanos III during the event.

As RTOA prepares to scale its electric fleet, Sia said the pilot is only the start—an early but important step that strongly positions local taxi operators to stay competitive as electric mobility takes hold in the Philippine transport landscape.

Filinvest Land joins the International Coastal Cleanup Day

 

As part of the company’s mission of maintaining green communities, Filinvest teamed up with the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) to conduct their yearly cleanup activity along the island’s coastal area.

Employees from Filinvest Land, SharePro, and ProExcel gathered with CENRO, the local barangay, the IGACOS Coast Guard, and community volunteers to ensure the island’s natural beauty is well-protected and well-preserved.

 

This is an addition to the regular environmental activities organized by Pusong Filinvest, the company’s corporate social responsibility arm, at least twice a year. Through this program, Filinvest stays committed to creating a greener and healthier future for Filipinos in Davao and across the nation.

Judo Legacy Lives On: Sydney Sy Tancontian Carries UAAP Torch of Honor

 

 

Davaoeña Sydney Sy Tancontian, the country’s multi-awarded judoka and sambist, received a prestigious honor during the opening of the **UAAP Season 88** when she was chosen as one of the torch bearers—a distinction reserved for the finest athletes in the history of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers.

 

This year, UST is hosting the UAAP season, and Sydney’s recognition shines as a proud moment not just for her alma mater but also for Davao City.

 

Her father, Paolo Tancontian, president of Pilipinas Sambo Incorporated, expressed immense pride in Sydney’s latest accolade. He said the UAAP’s acknowledgment signifies that the Tancontian family’s judo legacy remains alive, strong, and inspiring.

 A Family Rooted in Judo Excellence

In Davao City sports history, few families have contributed as much as the Tancontians, whose tradition of excellence dates back to the 1960s when the sport of *udo was first introduced in the city.

The discipline was brought by Japanese construction workers and engineers who arrived after World War II to work at a cement factory in Bunawan—now owned by Holcim Cement. These skilled workers, eager to share their national sport, began teaching judo at the CYO Gym, now the Holy Cross of Davao College Gym.

  

Three young Davaoeños—Romeo, Antonio, and Bimbo Tancontian—were among the first to train under them. The eldest, Romeo Tancontian, made history by becoming the 1967 National Judo Open Weight Champion, the first from the province to clinch such a prestigious title.

 Carrying the Torch Across Generations

Three decades later, Antonio’s son, Paolo Tancontian, followed in his uncle’s footsteps, becoming the 1997 Judo Open Weight Champion. Paolo went on to become an eight-time Philippine Lightweight Judo Champion and secured the first gold medal for Davao City at the Arafura Games in Australia (2001).

After retiring from active competition, Paolo dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation—his children, Sydney and Chino Sy Tancontian. Both have excelled internationally not just in judo but also in *sambo, a Russian martial art that Paolo himself helped introduce to the Philippines.

 Davao’s Enduring Pride

From the first judo classes in 1961 to Sydney’s role as a UAAP torch bearer today, the Tancontian family’s legacy continues to honor Davao City across decades, tournaments, and disciplines.

Their story is more than just about medals and championships—it is about passing on a flame, one that still burns bright in the city’s sporting history and inspires the next generation of athletes.

As Paolo Tancontian proudly shared:

 “Sydney carrying the torch in the UAAP is more than just an honor for our family—it is a symbol that the judo spirit we inherited and passed on will never fade. It tells every young Davaoeño athlete that with discipline and passion, they too can carry their own torch of excellence.” Bob Braceros

Solar Power Brings Security, Peace to Davao Fishing Village

Solar has transformed the life and security of a fishing community in Davao City.

Fishermen in Barangay Lasang, Davao City, are now enjoying safer and more secure surroundings thanks to the solar lights project initiated by former Davao City Second District Councilor Javi Garcia Campos. The project provides much-needed illumination for the NAGAMBALA Fisherfolk Association, addressing long-standing issues of darkness and theft in the area.

Previously, the lack of lighting led to frequent thefts, with fisherfolk losing valuable equipment such as boat engines and tools. The absence of proper illumination also posed a security risk, as unlawful individuals would take advantage of the dark, secluded areas to hide.

With the installation of solar-powered lights, these concerns have been effectively addressed. The brightened surroundings now deter criminal activity and create a safer environment for the fisherfolk and residents of Lasang.

Fisherfolk Express Gratitude

Members of the NAGAMBALA Fisherfolk Association shared their appreciation for the project.

Alberto Canoy, President of NAGAMBALA, recalled their long struggle with theft and darkness.

“Before, our area was completely dark, and we suffered from theft. We lost boat engine oil, shovels, and even machines. The place was frightening, with reports of suspicious individuals lurking in the shadows. When we learned that Sir Javi was providing solar lights, we requested assistance. On February 3, the lights arrived, and we assembled them ourselves. Now, the area is well-lit, and theft has stopped. The light has finally reached our community.”

Edelberto Alcobar, another member, emphasized how the solar lights improved their daily lives.

 “We lost a lot of fishing equipment. Now, we’re thankful not just for the lights but because theft has stopped. Thank you, Sir Javi.”

William Luengas, also a member, shared how his boat engine was stolen before the installation.

“I’m incredibly grateful because the area is bright now, and we no longer struggle with security concerns.”

Through this initiative, Councilor Javi Garcia Cam.pos has brought more than just light—he has restored a sense of safety and peace for the Lasang fishingñ community, proving that even simple projects can make a significant impact on people’s lives.(Bob Braceros)

Globe Named Top ASEAN Firm for Corporate Governance

 

Globe's Chief Compliance Officer and  Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance Marisalve Ciocson-Co (left) and Assistant Corporate Secretary and Globe’s Head of Corporate Services Nina Mikaela Sarmiento-Tacandong (second from left), together with Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Francis Edralin Lim and SEC Commissioner Mcjill Bryant Fernandez, receive the award at the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards (CGCA) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Globe has been honored as one of the Top 50 Publicly Listed Companies (PLCs) in ASEAN, and among the Top 5 PLCs in the Philippines for its excellence in corporate governance, affirming the company’s longstanding commitment to transparency, integrity, accountability, and ethical business conduct.

 

The awards were conferred during the 2025 ASEAN Corporate Governance Conference and Awards (CGCA) held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Representing Globe was Chief Compliance Officer and Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance Marisalve Ciocson-Co, who also serves as Assistant Corporate Secretary and Globe’s Head of Corporate Services Nina Mikaela Sarmiento-Tacandong.

 

The awardees were selected from a pool of 569 large-cap PLCs across six ASEAN markets which include Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Globe’s strong showing reflects its robust governance framework, which anchors its operational integrity and long-term shareholder value creation.

 

“Good corporate governance is in Globe’s DNA. It’s fundamental to how we create value, not just for shareholders, but for our customers, employees, and communities,” said Ciocson-Co. “We are deeply honored to be recognized by regional stakeholders and governance bodies for our consistent and principled approach to doing business.”

 

“This recognition reinforces our belief that sound governance strengthens trust in our services, fuels sustainable growth, and positions Globe as a responsible corporate citizen in the region,” she added.

 

The ASEAN CGCA 2025 marked the culmination of the 2024 ACGS assessment, a flagship initiative under the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum (ACMF) and supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The 2024 assessment employed a revised framework aligned with updated G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance, placing greater emphasis on sustainability, board effectiveness, stakeholder engagement and transparency.

 

This year’s ASEAN CGCA was organized by Malaysia’s Minority Shareholders Watch Group (MSWG), with YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Malaysia, officiating the ceremony.

 

Along with Globe, Ayala Corporation was also recognized as one of the Top 50 PLCs in ASEAN and Top 5 PLCs in the Philippines for corporate governance.

 

Globe’s governance practices are guided by its Manual of Corporate Governance and Code of Conduct, both aligned with international standards and designed to ensure transparency, integrity, fairness, and ethical leadership across all levels of the organization.

 

The full list of top-performing PLCs and ASEAN Asset Class recipients is available on the MSWG website.

 

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

 

From Miracle to Milestone: Alleona Ysabel Braceros Celebrates Her 18th Birthday

From a miracle baby to a fine young woman—Alleona Ysabel Braceros celebrates her 18th birthday today! 💖 Proof that God’s blessings turn trials into triumphs. 🙏🎉

Davao City – Eighteen years ago, on August 20, 2007, a story of both sorrow and hope unfolded. In General Santos City, three boy triplets were born but tragically lost their lives to sepsis. On the very same day in Davao City, at Community Hospital in Magallanes (now Riverview Hospital), another child was born with the same ailment. Against all odds, this baby girl survived.

That child was named Alleona Ysabel Braceros, a name rooted in family history—“Alleona” drawn from her maternal grandmother, Leona. When her parents asked the attending doctor why she was able to survive when others could not, they were told: “Women have stronger survival instincts than men.” Yet her family believes it was more than instinct—it was God’s blessing that spared her life.

Her survival did not come without challenges. The ordeal was emotionally and financially taxing for her parents, but the gift of Alleona’s life became a profound source of strength and joy. Today, eighteen years later, that miracle baby has grown into a beautiful young woman ready to face the future with courage and grace.

Unlike many of her peers who thrive in the bustle of social life, Alleona is known to value the simple joys of home. She enjoys time with her gadgets, the comfort of rest, and cherishes family trips—especially visits to her maternal grandparents’ home in Bohol. These quiet yet meaningful moments shape her unique character, setting her apart as someone grounded in family values.

Now standing at the threshold of adulthood, Alleona is ready to embrace life’s challenges at her own pace and in her own way. Her parents and loved ones remain steadfastly by her side, offering the love and support that carried her from a fragile newborn into the strong young woman she is today.

On this special day, her family celebrates not only her 18th birthday but also the miracle of her life. “The world may be tough, but with God, your parents, and your kin always ready to guide you, Alleona, you will never walk alone,” her family shares with pride and gratitude.

A blessed and meaningful 18th birthday to Alleona Ysabel Braceros—proof that miracles do happen, and that God’s grace shines brightest in life’s toughest battles.(Bob Braceros)