No to Vote-Buying and Premature Campaigning in the March 15, 2026 Elections as Reminded by Comelec Chair

As the Commission on Elections intensifies preparations for the March 14, 2026 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, George Erwin Mojica Garcia reaffirmed the poll body’s commitment to efficiency, transparency, and strict enforcement of election laws.

Swift and Careful Ballot Printing

Garcia assured the public that the printing of ballots will proceed without delay.

“Para sa printing ng mga balota para sa March 14 [Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election], kahit tomorrow puwede na nating simulan ’yan. At ’pag sinimulan ’yan bukas, kahit nga by Monday tapos lahat ng balotang gagamitin natin. And of course, ive-verify pa ’yan. Titingnan talaga ’yung mga balota kung maayos, malinis, may smudge, may guhit o dapat ba itong ulitin. Bibigyan natin ng isang buong linggo lang, limang araw lang, tapos na namin.”

The chairman emphasized that beyond speed, quality control remains a top priority. Each ballot will undergo strict verification to ensure accuracy and prevent technical issues on election day.

Strict Warning Against Premature Campaigning

Garcia also issued a firm reminder to candidates to observe election guidelines, particularly because the Antipolo special election will be conducted manually.

“Ang ating pakiusap sa mga tumatakbo, sana ma-observe po nila ang atin pong guidelines lalong-lalo na ito ay manual election, and therefore, bawal ang premature campaigning. Babantayan po namin ’yung mga namimigay d’yan lalo na sa panahon na bawal pang mangampanya, at ’wag na ’wag gagamit ng pera o pondo ng bayan para lamang i-promote ang kandidatura ng bawat isa. Hindi po kami magdadalawang-isip na mag-disqualify. Pinatunayan na po namin ’yan noong mga nakaraan.”

He stressed that COMELEC will not hesitate to disqualify violators, especially those misusing public funds or engaging in vote-buying activities.

Early Voting and Inclusive Elections

For the March 14 polls, COMELEC will once again implement its successful Early Voting Hours.

“Sa araw ng halalan sa Marso 14, 2026, amin pong muling ipatutupad ’yung napaka-successful na Early Voting Hours. Makakaboto po nang mas maaga ’yung mga nakatatanda, may kapansanan, mula 5AM–7AM. Exclusive para sa kanila lang pati na rin ang mga nagdadalang-tao.”

Garcia further underscored inclusivity by coordinating with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology to ensure that qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who are registered voters can also cast their votes.

“Meron po kasi tayong mga kababayang nakakulong doon na rehistradong botante ng Ikalawang Distrito ng Antipolo City. At dahil diyan, bilang pakikipagkapwa-tao, pagpapakita na wala dapat maiwan kapag ang pag-uusapan ay halalan, sila rin pong lahat ay pabobotohin natin.”

Resumption of Voter Registration in Bangsamoro

Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC will resume voter registration activities.

“Tayo po ay magre-resume na ng registration of voters sa na-suspend nating registration activity sa buong Bangsamoro ngayong darating na Ika-9 ng Pebrero hanggang March 30, 2026. Yan ay bilang resulta ng postponement ng eleksyon sa March 30 d’yan sa Bangsamoro.”

Garcia highlighted the availability of the Register Anywhere Program (RAP) in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns for voters from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao Norte, Maguindanao Sur, and the Special Geographic Area.

“Kung ikaw ay taga-Bangsamoro… puwede po kayong magparehistro na hindi mo na kinakailangang pumunta doon sa probinsya n’yo.”

He also reiterated COMELEC’s position that the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election must remain automated.

“Ang Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election ay ipinaglalaban ng COMELEC na at all cost, ito dapat ay automated election. Napakahirap po, sa amin pong pagtatantiya, ang isang manual na halalan sa Bangsamoro.”

Transparency and Fair Campaigning

In line with transparency, Garcia announced that the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven candidates for the Antipolo special election will be uploaded on COMELEC’s official website.

“Maaaring mailabas ng COMELEC sa aming website ang lahat ng Certificates of Candidacy ng pitong kandidato… ’Yan po ay commitment ng COMELEC na lagi nating ilalagay sa COMELEC website ang COC.”

He also appealed for discipline in campaign conduct and strict adherence to the Anti-Discrimination Resolution.

“Sana rin, ’yung ating mga kandidato… hindi naman tayo nakakaistorbo sa ating mga komunidad, lalo na ’yung paggamit ng mga trompa na pagkalakas-lakas o kaya naman ’yung pag-ikot natin na nakakaistorbo rin sa trapik.”

“Yung ating Anti-Discrimination Resolution, in effect po ’yan. Bawal natin atakihin ang ating mga kandidato below the belt… Pinatunayan na po namin. Ilan na po ’yung na-disqualify namin dahil lang sa violation ng Anti-Discrimination.”

With firm resolve, Cha

Chairman Garcia’s Message to Voters and Candidates to uphold integrity of the election

In a comprehensive public statement, George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), highlighted the Commission’s readiness, integrity safeguards, and commitment to inclusive and credible elections.

Swift but Careful Ballot Printing

On the printing of ballots for the March 14 Antipolo City 2nd Congressional District Special Election, Chairman Garcia emphasized operational preparedness. He explained that ballot printing could begin immediately and be completed within days. However, speed would never compromise quality.

Every ballot, he assured, will undergo strict verification, checked thoroughly for clarity, cleanliness, smudges, misprints, or defects that would require reprinting. The Commission is prepared to complete the entire process within five working days, demonstrating both efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. His message was clear: preparedness must be matched by precision.

Zero Tolerance for Premature Campaigning

Chairman Garcia issued a strong reminder to candidates to strictly observe election guidelines, especially since the Antipolo election will be conducted manually. Premature campaigning, vote-buying, and the misuse of public funds will not be tolerated.

He warned that COMELEC will closely monitor violations, particularly the distribution of money or goods during prohibited periods. The Commission will not hesitate to disqualify candidates who break the rules,  a stance he noted has already been proven in past enforcement actions.

This firm posture reinforces COMELEC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

Early Voting and Inclusive Participation

On Election Day, March 14, 2026, COMELEC will reimplement its successful Early Voting Hours from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM. These hours are exclusively reserved for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters. The initiative reflects the Commission’s continuing effort to make elections more accessible and humane.

Chairman Garcia also confirmed coordination with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to allow qualified detainees who are registered voters in Antipolo’s 2nd District to cast their votes. He stressed that no eligible Filipino should be left behind when it comes to the right to vote.

Bangsamoro Registration and Modernization Push

Following the postponement of the March 30 elections in the Bangsamoro region, COMELEC resumed voter registration from February 9 to March 30, 2026. Through the Register Anywhere Program (RAP), Bangsamoro residents from Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area may register in Highly Urbanized Cities and capital towns without returning to their provinces.

Chairman Garcia strongly advocated for the Bangsamoro Parliamentary Election to be automated, explaining that conducting a fully manual election in the region would pose serious logistical and operational challenges.

Transparency and Respect in Campaigning

In line with its transparency commitment, COMELEC released online the Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) of the seven Antipolo candidates, allowing voters to be properly informed about those seeking office.

Chairman Garcia also appealed for respectful campaigning, avoiding excessive noise, traffic disruption, and community disturbance. He reminded candidates that the Anti-Discrimination Resolution remains in effect. Personal attacks, discriminatory remarks, and below-the-belt tactics can lead to disqualification, as demonstrated in previous cases.

A Clear Standard for Elections

Through his message, Chairman Garcia projected a leadership style defined by preparedness, fairness, inclusivity, and strict enforcement of the law. His words serve not only as guidance to candidates but as reassurance to voters: elections will be conducted with order, transparency, and accountability.

For COMELEC under his leadership, democracy is not merely administered, it is actively safeguarded.

DOF and BIR Clarifies Rules for VAT on Local Sales of Registered Business Enterprises (RBEs)*

 *BIR PRESS RELEASE*

_February 23, 2026_

The Department of Finance (DOF) and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued Revenue Regulations (RR) No. 1-2026, which amends certain provisions of RR No. 9-2025, to clarify the manner of filing and payment for value-added tax (VAT) on local sales, provide optional VAT registration for certain RBEs, extend the deadline for system reconfiguration, and exclude certain enterprises and activities from the coverage of VAT on local sales of RBEs under Section 295(D) of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 (Tax Code), as Amended by Section 18 of Republic Act (RA) No. 12066, or more popularly known as the Corporate Recovery and Tax incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act (CREATE MORE Act).

The said revenue issuance was released to address concerns of the external and internal stakeholders in the implementation of VAT on local sales of RBEs that was introduced under the CREATE MORE Act. The most notable changes are as follow:

Clarification on the manner of filing and payment of VAT on local sales of RBEs

For the sale of goods inside the economic zones or freeports classified as business-to-business (B2B) transaction, the filing and payment of the buyer shall be on a per transaction basis. However, it was further clarified that in cases where the shipment of the goods purchased in the economic zones or freeport is in bulk (e.g., delivered through a single container truck) and is covered by several invoices, the buyer may opt to pay the VAT due thereon in a single payment through BIR Form No. 0605, together with the list of all the invoices covered, which shall be presented to the BOC prior to the release of the goods.

Optional VAT Registration

An RBE availing of the 5% Special Corporate Income Tax (SCIT) or Gross Income Earned (GIE) regime, and whose registered activities are all under the same income tax incentive, may opt to register as a VAT taxpayer solely for purposes of its local sales. Such VAT registration shall not affect the RBE’s entitlement to its existing fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, including VAT zero-rating on local purchases and VAT exemption on importation, provided these are directly attributable to its registered activities.

Exclusions from the coverage of VAT on local sales of RBEs

This amendment to RR No. 9-2025 seeks to address the adverse tax implications arising from the application of Section 295(D) on certain RBEs, particularly Domestic Market Enterprises (DMEs) that are unable to recover input VAT due to ineligibility for VAT refund under Section 112(A) of the Tax Code, and other enterprises and transactions having similar concern. This move ensures consistency with the statutory framework and promotes equitable tax administration without necessarily eroding tax collection.

The following enterprises and transactions are, thus, excluded from the coverage of Section 295(D) of the Tax Code, as amended:

1. Local sales of VAT-registered Domestic Market Enterprises (DMEs) that do not qualify for VAT zero-rating on local purchases or VAT exemption on importation, despite being registered with any of the Investment Promotion Agencies;

2. Sales subject to VAT zero-rating under Sections 106, 108 and Title XIII of the Tax Code and VAT-Exempt Sales under Section 109 of the Tax Code;

3. Entities that have registered with the Board of Investments by virtue of a special law and are not availing of incentives under Title XIII of the Tax Code, as amended; and

4. Local sales made by RBEs that pertain to business activities not registered with any of the IPAs, including the sales of scrap materials, machineries, and property, plant and equipment.

For such transactions, the RBE-seller shall file and pay any corresponding VAT to the BIR.

Extension on the deadline for system reconfiguration

The effectivity of the provision under Section 7 of RR No. 9-2025, which requires RBEs using registered Cash Register Machines/Point-of-Sales (CRM/POS), Computerized Accounting System (CAS), Computerized Books of Accounts with Accounting Records, or other registered invoicing system/software to reconfigure or rename their system by replacing the term ‘VAT/VAT Amount’ in the breakdown of sales with ‘VAT on Local Sales,’ or adding the same where ‘VAT/VAT Amount’ is not applicable, has been extended until December 31, 2026.

As part of the BIR D.A.R.E.S. initiative, particularly “Service Excellence and Stakeholder Engagement”, BIR Commissioner Charito Martin S. Mendoza vows to improve taxpayer service by paying attention and immediately addressing the concerns of stakeholders particularly the taxpayers that are adversely affected in the implementation of newly introduced provisions of the Tax Code. Commissioner Mendoza recognizes the major role of investors in the economic growth and addressing their concerns is one of the aspects to improve the investment climate of the country.###

Safeguarding The Maritime Domain For The Free and Open Indo-Pacific

 

The Indo-Pacific is a region fundamentally connected by the seas. Its maritime domain should be understood as an integrated system underpinning regional security, economic resilience, energy transition, and digital connectivity. Amid growing uncertainties and tensions, safeguarding this maritime domain has become more important than ever for ensuring peace and stability across the region. 

The core principles of Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) are the defense of freedom and openness, which provide the essential foundation for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Upholding these principles requires the maintenance of a rules-based order. At the same time, in light of the increasingly complex challenges the region now faces, it is imperative to develop effective strategies and capabilities to address emerging risks—particularly in the maritime domain—through closer engagement and collaboration among regional partners. 

In line with this, the Stratbase Institute and the Japan Institute of International Affairs will co-host a symposium entitled “Safeguarding the Maritime Domain for the Free and Open Indo-Pacific” on March 6, 2026 (Friday) at Makati Shangri-La. 

The symposium aims to bring together leading scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond to share insights and explore avenues for closer and more effective cooperation. While maritime security will be a central focus, discussions will also extend to related areas such as economic security, freedom of navigation, the resilience of maritime and digital infrastructure, and the protection of the maritime environment. These discussions are intended to contribute to deepening and updating the FOIP concept, particularly as 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of its announcement.

Experts Convene in Manila to Fortify Cybersecurity and Counter Foreign Interference

 

The Point News

February 16, 2026

MANILA, Philippines — February 2026 — As the Indo-Pacific confronts an increasingly volatile digital security environment, the Stratbase Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, will convene top government, defense, cybersecurity, and civil society leaders for a high-level conference titled “Navigating Digital Crossroads: Advancing Cybersecurity and Democratic Resilience in the Indo-Pacific.”

The two-day forum, to be held on February 19–20, 2026 at the Manila Polo Club in Makati City, comes at a pivotal moment when cyber intrusions, foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), and hybrid warfare tactics are escalating across the region.

The conference aims to move the conversation beyond reactive defense — toward building a coordinated, cross-sector “collective shield” that protects democratic institutions, critical infrastructure, and electoral integrity.

Among those attending are Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson; Department of Information & Communications Technology Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda; Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres Manhit; and Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman.

They will be joined by senior officials from the National Security Council, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard, and Canadian cybersecurity and rapid response experts — underscoring the strategic and international importance of the dialogue.

Day 1 of the conference will focus on assessing the evolving cybersecurity landscape, strengthening governance and cross-sector resilience, and examining how emerging technologies are being weaponized in hybrid warfare strategies. Discussions will also address patterns of cyber espionage targeting governments, businesses, and critical infrastructure.

Day 2 will center on foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) operations in the Philippines — including their potential implications for the 2028 national elections. Panels will examine the actors, methods, and digital channels used in influence operations, while identifying mechanisms for regional cooperation and media transparency to safeguard the integrity of the information ecosystem.

“Cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical concern — it is a national security and democratic stability issue,” said Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres Manhit. “In an era where disinformation campaigns can undermine public trust and digital attacks can disrupt essential services, strengthening institutional coordination and international partnerships has become a strategic imperative.”

By bringing together policymakers, defense officials, cyber practitioners, and media leaders, the conference aims to generate actionable policy insights and reinforce democratic resilience across the Indo-Pacific, Manhit added.

Rising Tigers Magazine Welcomes A Meet and Greet Featuring Brother Eduardo V. Manalo Cover Issue

Manila, Philippines — Rising Tigers Magazine is set to open its office doors for the first time to host an exclusive Meet and Greet with its Editor in Chief and the writer behind its landmark cover story featuring Brother Eduardo V. Manalo. The gathering marks a historic moment for the publication as it celebrates one of its most impactful and widely talked-about issues to date.

The special edition highlights Brother Eduardo V. Manalo’s global leadership, far-reaching humanitarian initiatives, and the remarkable international expansion of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. Through rare, in-depth storytelling and powerful visual narratives, the issue has transcended the boundaries of a traditional magazine, emerging as a collector’s item and a significant piece of modern history. Since trending online in December 2025, the issue has reached its third reprint, reflecting strong public interest and sustained demand.

The cover story was written by Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, Co-Founder of Tag Media Group, the publisher of five print magazines, including Rising Tigers Magazine. In connection with the release, Engr. Nicolas also paid a courtesy visit to Deputy Executive Minister Angelo Eraño Manalo, during which a print copy of the magazine was formally turned over.

A distinguished figure in media and leadership, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas is the first Filipina and woman President of the American Association of the Philippines, a three-time Aliw Awardee for Media, and a Truth Awardee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Quezon City. She has also been recognized twice as a recipient of the “Friends of the Embassy of Indonesia” Award. Her professional background includes service with the Philippine Information Agency as Regional Media Coordinator, Writer, and Consultant, where she upheld rigorous standards of fact-based and data-driven reporting. She is likewise a business writer for The Manila Times.

Driven by a passion for meaningful storytelling, Engr. Nicolas continues to chronicle the journeys of leaders and influential figures who are shaping society today, with the goal of informing, inspiring, and uplifting the nation.

The Meet and Greet serves as both a celebration of journalistic excellence and an opportunity for readers, partners, and stakeholders to engage more closely with the people behind this historic publication.

Contact: + 63 977 897 8877 to reserve your copy in advance

Rising Tigers Magazine Office 

Yupangco Building 

339 Jupiter Street, N. Garcia 

Bel Air, Makati 

Meet & Greet with the Writer 

January 16, 2026 

1PM-6PM Only

Rising Tigers Magazine Divulges “People to Watch 2026” on February 10 at The Manila Hotel

Congressman Brian Poe Llamanzares to Deliver Keynote Address

Manila, Philippines — Rising Tigers Magazine proudly announces People to Watch 2026, an exclusive recognition event honoring exceptional leaders who are shaping industries, communities, and the national conversation today. The prestigious gathering will be held on February 10, 2026, at the Presidential Suite of The Manila Hotel.

The event will feature Congressman Brian Poe Llamanzares as Keynote Speaker, bringing insight and inspiration from his leadership in public service and governance. The presentation will be led by Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, Editor in Chief and Chief Operating Officer of Rising Tigers Magazine, who will spearhead the recognition of this year’s distinguished honorees.

As the world steps into 2026 with renewed urgency, bold ambition, and evolving challenges, leadership is no longer defined solely by titles—it is measured by impact, vision, and the courage to shape what comes next. People to Watch 2026 is Rising Tigers Magazine’s curated spotlight on individuals who are not only making waves today, but are also poised to define the conversations, industries, and movements of the year ahead.

The honorees represent a dynamic mix of innovators, trailblazers, and quiet disruptors. Some lead from boardrooms and public offices, others from communities, creative spaces, and global platforms—but all share a common thread: a commitment to excellence and a deep sense of purpose beyond personal success.

In an era marked by rapid transformation, the People to Watch 2026 are leaders who anticipate change rather than merely react to it. They challenge norms, elevate standards, and create opportunities where none existed before. Across business, governance, culture, technology, advocacy, and social impact, their work reflects resilience, integrity, and an unwavering belief in progress.

What sets this year’s honorees apart is not only their achievements, but their momentum. They are leaders in motion—building, expanding, and influencing in ways that promise lasting and meaningful impact. Their stories remind us that the future belongs to those bold enough to imagine it and disciplined enough to build it.

As Rising Tigers Magazine continues its mission to spotlight leadership that truly matters, People to Watch 2026 stands as both recognition and anticipation—a celebration of those already shaping tomorrow.

Watch them closely.

The future is rising.

— Rising Tigers Magazine