BIZ BUZZ: BSP firms up meow-netary policy
MANILA, Philippines — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) isn’t just watching over inflation and the economy—it’s also looking out for our furry friends.
On June 9, the BSP marked the second anniversary of its animal-loving crew, Compassionate Leaders for Animal Welfare (Claw), with a heartwarming celebration at its Manila head office.
The event—aptly themed “We are PAWmily (Year 2): Nurturing Safe Coexistence in the Workplace”—was a celebration that included talks on how to care for animals, as well as free vaccinations for community cats.
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But the highlight of the event was the big up to Claw’s Cat Adoption and Sponsorship Program. This program, led by retired BSP Senior Assistant Governor Maria Ramona Santiago, helps connect rescued cats with loving adopters.
From safeguarding price stability to giving stray cats a shot at a better life, the BSP is showing that a little compassion goes a long way. —Ian Nicolas P. Cigaral
Tiu Laurel’s promise
Amid soaring global oil prices because of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has vowed to double its efforts for the agriculture sector.
“The Department of Agriculture will further improve the work that needs to be done for our farmers, fishers and livestock and poultry raisers,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a video message posted on the DA’s Facebook page.
“Expect that we will work twice as hard—we will go to you, talk to you and go around continuously to serve you well,” Tiu Laurel said in Filipino.
What a timely message from the DA, which celebrated its 127th founding anniversary on Monday, as the Israel-Iran conflict threatens to raise the cost of producing agricultural commodities.
Fuel cost is a key component of agricultural production, particularly in the transportation of fertilizers and other farm inputs.
As explained by the DA, crude oil is not used in manufacturing fertilizers, but natural gas, a key byproduct of oil refining, is essential for producing ammonia, a main ingredient in nitrogen-based fertilizers.
Aside from higher fuel prices, the agency already has a lot on its plate—primarily on finding the balance between the profitability of local producers and keeping retail prices in check.
The question is: are the DA’s efforts enough to help the sector weather this difficult challenge for the sector? — Jordeene B. Lagare
MOA Globe glows with AirAsia colors
The iconic Mall of Asia (MOA) Globe was illuminated in gold and red to commemorate AirAsia’s 16 consecutive recognition as the world’s best low-cost Airline at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
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But it did not only brighten the Pasay complex. It also wanted to make customers happy by launching special promo fares starting at just P116 (one-way base fare) for select domestic and international flights.
The budget carrier is offering over 450,000 seats until July 3 for this promo. Travel period is between July 2 and Mar. 31, 2026.
“As we lit up the MOA Globe, we also illuminated the journey that brought us here—16 golden years of service built on trust and support from millions of guests who choose to fly with us time and time again,” AirAsia Philippines president and general manager Suresh Bangah said. — Tyrone Jasper C. Piad
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