Good morning. Today’s issue starts with Saudi Aramco’s return to Philippine fuel stations, a move that could shake up local pump competition. We also look at bad weather hitting jobs, Angat worries testing water stocks, AI using public Instagram photos, and a few odd stories worth your coffee today.

Stay Sharp.

Big picture: Saudi Aramco is heading back to the Philippine retail fuel market after 17 years, with its first branded station set to open in Sucat, Parañaque this July.

Why it matters: This is not just a logo change. Aramco bought a 25% stake in Unioil, a local fuel player with 165 retail stations and four storage terminals.

The move: Select stations are expected to carry Aramco fuels and Valvoline-branded lubricants, giving Unioil stronger supply, brand power, and room to expand.

The catch: Competition could get hotter for local fuel retailers.

Bottom line: For Aramco, the Philippines is now part of its bigger push to grow outside Saudi oil exports.

The Philippines’ unemployment rate climbed to 4.8% in May, with 2.5 million Filipinos jobless as bad weather wiped out agricultural jobs. Rice farming lost 734,000 workers and corn farming 428,000, offsetting service-sector gains. Despite this, underemployment improved to 12.2%, with more Filipinos working longer hours.

Excise Taxes Return on LPG, Kerosene

Excise taxes on LPG and kerosene have returned after Dubai crude averaged $79.45 per barrel in June, below the $80 trigger for suspension. LPG tax is back at ₱3.36/kg and kerosene at ₱5.60/liter, ending temporary relief as authorities continue monitoring inflation and global oil market risks.

PH Among World's Fastest in Intangible Investments

The Philippines ranked third globally in intangible investment growth, with spending rising 4.6% in 2021 to 2022 and reaching $49.1 billion. WIPO cited strong gains in R&D and software, while brand investments hit $14.2 billion, highlighting the country’s growing shift toward a knowledge-driven economy.

Ayala Brings in Maersk Group Investor

Ayala Corp. sold a 40% stake in AC Logistics to Denmark’s A.P. Moller Capital, part of the Maersk group, to strengthen Philippine supply chains. The partnership brings global logistics expertise, supports AC Logistics’ nationwide expansion, and follows its 84% acquisition of Glacier Megafridge to boost cold chain operations.

The MTRCB held a compliance seminar with "Sigabo" producers after receiving complaints about violent scenes, prompting the team to commit to stricter adherence to content guidelines. (Read more)

‘Avatar Aang’ Arrives Earlier Than Expected

"Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender" moves its release to July 25 on Paramount+, alongside its first action-packed trailer, following an earlier online leak of the animated film. (Read More)

Pinay Teen Shines on ‘American Ninja Warrior’

Fifteen-year-old climber Praj Dela Cruz proudly represented the Philippines in her rookie "American Ninja Warrior" stint, calling it a dream come true despite falling short of advancing. (Read More)

AB Capital says the market may be overreacting to the El Niño water risk.

Big picture: Falling Angat Dam levels could hurt investor sentiment, but the report says earnings risk for Manila Water and Maynilad stays limited unless allocation cuts become severe and prolonged.

Why it matters: Water demand is essential, tariffs are regulated, and both firms have spent heavily on backup sources, treatment plants, reservoirs, pipe upgrades, and non-revenue water reduction.

The split: Manila Water is seen as the safer defensive pick, helped by Wawa and Rizal-based sources. Maynilad is the recovery play, with improving 24-hour supply, pressure compliance, and lower NRW.

Bottom line: The report rates both as Strong Buy.

In collaboration with AB Capital Securities. This section is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Please conduct your own research or consult a licensed professional before making investment decisions.

Virtual taekwondo is gaining popularity across Southeast Asia, combining VR technology with traditional martial arts. The sport will debut at the 2026 Asian Games and is expected at the 2027 SEA Games. (Read more)

Robot Swarm to Map Greenland Ice Melt

A fleet of drones, submarines and sensors will study Greenland's melting glaciers this month. Scientists hope the mission will improve climate models and provide earlier warnings of dangerous ocean current changes. (Read more)

Meta Lets AI Use Public Instagram Photos by Default

Meta now allows AI-generated images using photos from public Instagram accounts by default. Users must manually opt out or switch their accounts to private to prevent future AI-generated content. (Read more)

China Targets Smarter Robot Hands

Chinese startups are developing advanced robotic hands to make humanoid robots more useful. Companies are combining AI, sensors and manufacturing expertise to improve robots' ability to perform everyday tasks. (Read more)

Study Warns of Invasive Flowerhorn Spread in Lake Sampaloc

A new study found invasive Flowerhorn fish are threatening native species in Lake Sampaloc. Researchers urged stronger biosecurity, pollution control and community monitoring to limit their spread and environmental impact.

QC COVID-19 Cases Rise, Health Office Urges Vigilance

Quezon City recorded an increase in COVID-19 cases, but health officials said infections remain mild and advised residents to continue observing health precautions.

Japan Probe Captures Snowman-Like Asteroid Image

Japan’s Hayabusa2 spacecraft captured rare images of asteroid Torifune, revealing a snowman-like shape. Scientists said the flyby could help improve efforts to study and defend against dangerous space rocks.

Possible New Ghost Shark Species Found in Costa Rica

Scientists in Costa Rica are studying a possible new ghost shark species discovered in Pacific waters. Researchers are conducting genetic analysis to confirm its classification and uniqueness.

🌾 NIA activated contingency measures as Angat Dam fell below critical levels, with farmers relying on heavy rains or typhoons for irrigation recovery. (Read more)

🏛️ President Marcos appoints former DILG chief Benjamin Abalos Jr. as Cabinet Secretary, reviving a Palace position abolished in 2022. (Read more)

✈️ A Saudia Airlines Boeing 787 struck a parked PAL Airbus A320 at NAIA, damaging the plane’s tail fin during ground operations. (Read more)

🏝️ Two foreigners were arrested in Siargao for allegedly operating a resort business while staying in the Philippines on tourist visas. (Read more)

⚖️ Senate impeachment court subpoenas Zuleika Lopez, Vice President Sara Duterte’s aide, as prosecutors prepare witnesses for grave threats allegations. (Read more)

Severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding across China killed at least 15 people and injured hundreds. Authorities launched rescue efforts as tens of thousands of residents were evacuated from affected areas.

Japan Opens ‘Pokemon Airport’ to Boost Quake-Hit Region

Japan’s Noto Airport unveiled a temporary Pokemon-themed makeover to attract tourists after a 2024 earthquake. The facility features over 100 Pokemon characters and will use the name for three years.

Damascus Blasts Kill One, Injure 36 During Macron Visit

Explosions near Damascus’ Four Seasons Hotel killed one person and wounded 36 others while French President Emmanuel Macron visited Syria. Authorities said two explosive devices caused the blasts.

📝 ‘Sayang’: Michael Martinez’s story resurfaces after Alex Eala’s Wimbledon milestone. (Read more)

📝 Pain relief brand goes viral after joke about going ‘digital’. (Read more)

📝 Pokémon brings 30th anniversary celebration and first pop-up store to Philippines. (Watch here)

📝 BINI and 4EVE spark SEApop excitement with surprise dance cover exchange. (Watch here)