Ched Chairperson Agrupis, 3 others face Ombudsman complaint over Program Closures, Alleged Bad Faith

The Office of the Ombudsman has filed a complaint against Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis and four other CHED officials for administrative misconduct and graft in relation to the termination of multiple degree programs at campuses that are part of a significant private higher education network.

Agrupis is named in the complaint along with her chief of staff and three regional directors who are in charge of CHED operations across the nation. They are accused in the complaint of serious misconduct, oppression, and behavior that is detrimental to the service's best interests, in addition to violating Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The complaint claims that in early March 2026, CHED issued resolutions directing the closure or phase-out of multiple degree programs on three network campuses, citing non-compliance with regulations pertaining to faculty, facilities, and program administration. The organization in charge of the impacted campuses claims that it did not challenge the closures. The complaint focuses on CHED's handling of the public rollout, specifically a series of advisories that were posted on CHED's official website and Facebook pages, naming the impacted campuses directly and allowing public comments.

The complaint claims that the advisories were misinterpreted by the public as indicating a shutdown of the entire institution nationwide, rather than just a few programs at three of its approximately 150 campuses, because the campuses operate under a single, well-known brand. Students, parents, and partner institutions who thought the entire system was closing reportedly called campus administrators in other parts of the network in a panic.

The complaint further claims that between late April and early May 2026, the institution, through its representative, sent three different written appeals to Chairperson Agrupis, requesting that CHED coordinate an orderly transition and postpone further public dissemination while the issue was resolved. There was reportedly no meaningful response to any of the letters—just an automated acknowledgment. The complaint claims that in spite of these requests, CHED re-published the advisories on Facebook in the middle of May, this time with comments enabled, worsening what the organization claims to be financial and reputational harm during a crucial enrollment period.

According to the complaint, the ensuing harm was substantial enough to prompt the institution's bank to inquire, garner media attention, and result in missed enrollment opportunities that might be challenging to fully recover.

The complaint makes a more general claim that CHED has applied its regulatory standards inconsistently, going beyond how it handled its own case. It cites a lawmaker's public remarks and earlier news reports showing that hundreds of teacher education programs across the country were marked for closure due to their performance on the licensing exam, but they did not receive the same prompt, public attention as the campuses at the heart of this complaint. The complainant contends that the public, forceful action in one instance and the relative inaction in others are proof of bias in and of themselves.

The institution has taken legal action in addition to the Ombudsman complaint. In addition, it has filed a separate complaint with the Anti-Red Tape Authority regarding CHED's purported failure to reply to its appeals. It has also filed an injunction case in a trial court in Quezon City in an attempt to halt the advisories' continued distribution and obtain ₱20 million in moral damages.

The Iconic Blue Magic Opens at SM Center Sangandaan

For many Filipinos, Blue Magic has long been associated with significant life events. From teddy bears and novelty gifts to keepsakes for birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries, the homegrown brand has spent nearly four decades helping customers commemorate special occasions.

Caloocan shoppers now have easier access to their favorite gift items thanks to the opening of Blue Magic's newest store on the ground floor of SM Center Sangandaan, which is conveniently located near Watsons.

Since its founding in 1985, Blue Magic has developed into one of the most well-known gift shops in the nation, providing home décor, plush toys, novelty items, and gift options for all occasions. Its ability to combine reasonably priced items with sentimental value accounts for its enduring appeal, making it a well-known destination for generations of Filipino consumers.

A large assortment of gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, holidays, and regular celebrations are available in the new store. The store provides gift ideas for every budget and occasion, whether customers are searching for a meaningful gift or a straightforward token of appreciation.

Through the Blue-tiful Rewards program, customers can also take advantage of extra benefits. Customers can be eligible for VIP status and receive 10% off certain regular-priced items for a year if they have purchase receipts totaling ₱5,000 before December 31, 2026.

Blue Magic also runs a pop-up store on the mall's 5th Floor of SM City Grand Central, offering customers who live closer to the mall an additional easy way to find thoughtful gifts.

Blue Magic continues to make its iconic gift options more accessible to customers throughout northern Metro Manila with the opening of its newest location at your favorite SM Center Sangandaan and its presence at SM City Grand Central.

More Miles Than Milestones? Agrupis' Foreign Trips Face Scrutiny

Shirley Agrupis, the chair of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), is under increasing scrutiny due to her frequent overseas engagements. This has raised concerns about whether she has become the most traveled chairperson in the agency's history and what benefits her travels have brought to Philippine higher education.

Critics and observers in the education sector have taken notice of Agrupis' growing presence in international meetings and are now demanding more openness regarding the quantity, expense, and results of her international travels.

Her latest trip to Paris has brought the issue back into focus.

In a social media post, Agrupis described the extreme heat in Paris, claiming temperatures had reached 43 degrees Celsius and were "too hard to tolerate/survive."

She also made broad observations about Paris' preparedness for climate change, claiming that the "world's most famous city appears to be unprepared or did not anticipate that climate change would occur."

Agrupis went on to complain about the lack of air conditioning in homes, apartments, some hotels, and public places, saying there was "practically NO place to hang on" in the heat.

The remarks raised eyebrows over the tone of a senior Philippine government official commenting publicly on conditions in a host country while attending an international engagement.

Agrupis ended her post with a call to action on climate change: “LET US save our planet EARTH.”

The post drew reactions online, including one social media user who remarked: “Let's save our planet earth tapos nag travel sa Paris. Hahaha.”

Beyond the social media exchange, however, questions over Agrupis' foreign travel remain.

Her overseas schedule has drawn criticism for possibly exceeding that of previous CHED chairpersons. The number of trips Agrupis has made, their funding sources, and the quantifiable results of each engagement could all be determined by reviewing and making public CHED's official travel records.

The head of CHED frequently travels abroad, especially as Philippine universities expand their international partnerships and take part in regional and global education initiatives.

However, observers contend that the frequency of these interactions ought to be matched by definite and observable advantages for the nation's higher education system.

Since taking office, how many foreign trips has Agrupis made? What specific initiatives, collaborations, or chances for Filipino students and institutions have come from these engagements, and how much money has been spent on them?

The increasing focus on Agrupis' foreign travel is unlikely to go away without more openness at a time when CHED is still dealing with urgent domestic issues.

The records will determine whether Agrupis is, in fact, CHED's most travelled chairperson. What Philippine higher education has gained from all the miles traveled is a more crucial question.

PCPPI, LC BigMak renew beverage partnership for nationwide outlet network

The local fast-food kiosk chain LC BigMak and Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) have officially extended their partnership, beginning a new phase in a business partnership based on nearly ten years of cooperation, common standards, and service to Filipino customers.

The PCPPI Sto hosted a ceremonial contract signing to formalize the renewed agreement. PCPPI will become LC BigMak's exclusive beverage partner throughout its more than 850 locations across the country thanks to the Tomas Plant in Batangas.

The signing was attended by senior leaders from PCPPI, PepsiCo, and LC BigMak, including PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Phyo Phyu Noe, Chief Commercial Officer Lyndon Cuadra, and General Manager for Food Service and National Development Joseph Michael Go; PepsiCo General Manager Aditya Sheoran, Chief Marketing Officer Nicole Villarojo, and Franchise Lead Juris Melencio; and LC BigMak Chairman and Founder Francis Dy, Founder Edna Dy, and CEO Mark Dy.

The renewed partnership, according to PCPPI, is a reflection of the company's ongoing commitment to enhancing food service relationships through consistent execution, dependable supply, and greater value for clients and consumers.

“This is not a cold beginning. It is a return. A renewal. A second chapter,” said Phyo. “We will serve LC BigMak with the seriousness that your history deserves, with the discipline that your scale requires, and with the ambition that your future warrants.” ~Phyo Phyu Noe, PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer

LC BigMak, a family-run business founded in 1984 with its headquarters in Lucena City, has developed into one of the most well-known fast-food burger kiosk networks in the nation. In keeping with the brand's familial origins, its name is derived from the initials of Maxima and Kimsuy, the parents of its founders.

Mark Dy of LC BigMak, described the signing as a meaningful renewal between two brands with a long-standing history together.

“We are proud to partner again with a globally recognized brand like Pepsi,” Dy said. “To our partners in Pepsi, thank you for your renewed trust and collaboration. We look forward to building an even stronger partnership in the years ahead.” ~Francis Dy, BigMak Chairman and Founder 

By combining the chain's well-known, affordable food options with PepsiCo beverages that are consistently served throughout its locations, PCPPI and LC BigMak hope to improve the customer experience throughout LC BigMak's national network.

Additionally, the renewed partnership highlights PCPPI's wider dedication to providing better route-to-market support, disciplined execution, and partnerships that add value to regular consumer events in order to serve more customers.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines, with products such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum, Saero, and Premier. More information about PCPPI and its products is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Vermosa Green Run 5.0 achieves sustainability goals

On Sunday, June 28, the Vermosa Green Run made a comeback for its fifth year, drawing over 2,000 runners and their dogs to the Vermosa Estates in Imus, Cavite.

Running enthusiasts, run club members, elite runners, fun runners, and the running community in the media all participated in the five-tiered dawn run. The 21K gold medal went to Edgardo Panopio and Lorely Magalona, the 10K gold went to Jomm Lacanilao-Gay and Patrice Quiday, the 5K gold went to John Mark Balogo and Ira Alvaro, the 3K gold went to Jessi Valentine and Danielle Sophia, and the 1K Dog Run went to Moises Calastravo and his dog, Onzi.

As part of the Run, participants were urged to contribute used plastic bottles. Afterwards, these would be given to the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) to be upcycled into eco-bricks, which would help Ayala Land projects build sustainably. 

The runners' dog bandanas, finisher shirts, and singlets were all made completely from recycled PET bottles, converting plastic waste into high-end athletic wear.

"We wanted our runners to experience sustainability both literally and symbolically. This year, we offered a discount for donating used PET bottles, and the community supported this! Celebrating our landmark fifth consecutive year, the energy across our 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K tracks, and 1K Dog Run was unmatched. Seeing families, elite athletes, and pet lovers come together at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub shows that our community's passion for fitness is deeply intertwined with environmental action. Looking ahead, our goal is to continue scaling this impact. While Vermosa remains our flagship home because of its expansive, nature-forward open spaces, we are constantly exploring deeper corporate and community partnerships. We want to bring more runners into the fold each year, proving that active, high-performance lifestyles can be completely sustainable." ~Lani Tan, General Manager of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub

By raising vital funds for ecological projects, encouraging sustainable lifestyles, and directly supporting initiatives like tree planting, environmental runs like the Vermosa Green Run help save the planet.

In order to automatically join the Haribon Foundation's Forests for Life Movement, groups of ten are invited to participate in this year's Vermosa Green Run, which encouraged corporate and group registrations. By bringing together people, organizations, and local communities to restore degraded forests using a science-based rainforestation approach focused on planting and nurturing native tree species, the Haribon initiative supports native tree planting and forest restoration projects in partner communities across the country.

"Our partnership with the Haribon Foundation is a cornerstone of why we do this. Over the past few editions, the funds raised have gone directly into Haribon's Adopt-a-Seedling and rainforestation programs. For this milestone 5th edition, we were overwhelmed by registrations where we attracted many groups of 10. That means hundreds of new native trees will be nurtured directly because of our runners’ strides today. Crossing the finish line is fantastic, but knowing your team left a lasting ecological legacy is the real victory." ~Letty Oh-Naňagas, Vermosa Marketing Manager

Beneficiaries of The Green Run at Vermosa 2026 are Haribon Foundation, Takbo Kabitenyo and Pawssion Project as the expression of its advocacy for ecosystem conservation, an active lifestyle and youth sports development, and animal welfare.

Supporters of the fifth edition of the Vermosa Green Run are Oishi, Merrell, Pocari, Salonpas, Booster C, Fitbar, Gatsby, Milo, Apex, Topbreed, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Special, Entrée Gourmet Pet Treats, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, Zert, and Wonderpaw.

Rain or Shine: Discover Rainy-Day Essentials at Your Most Loved SM Bulacan Malls

Weather-resistant basics are a great way to update everyday style on rainy days, even though they may also bring gloomy skies. There are many ways to find everything you need for the season at Your Most Loved SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan, whether you're heading to work, running errands, or just relaxing indoors.

1. Stylish Raincoats

A trendy raincoat is a must-have for rainy days. It provides both protection and style. The SM Store offers a diverse range of brilliant colors and traditional neutral designs to suit any wardrobe.

2. Waterproof Footwear

Wet pavements are no match for sturdy and fashionable waterproof footwear. Crocs and Melissa Clube  in SM City Marilao provides comfortable rain shoes and sandals that keep every step dry while remaining attractive.

3. Compact Umbrellas

Unexpected downpours become less of an issue with a dependable compact umbrella. Mr. DIY at SM Center Pulilan offers a wide range of umbrellas in traditional forms and interesting prints, making them ideal for everyday usage.

4. Cozy Accessories

Rainy days necessitate warm and comfortable gear. Scarves, caps, and other comfortable items are available at the SM Store to complement any rainy-day ensemble with both comfort and style.

5. Waterproof Bags

Miniso's waterproof bags make it easy to keep personal goods dry. These bags, made from sturdy materials like nylon and coated canvas, combine functionality with modern style for everyday use.

6. Insulated Drinkware

Staying hydrated is vital regardless of the weather. Surplus, AquaFlask, and Sunnies Flask sell insulated tumblers and bottles that keep beverages hot or cold longer, making them ideal companions throughout the day.

Rainy days no longer have to disrupt plans or style. From fashionable attire and practical accessories to everyday supplies, SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan provide everything needed to stay prepared, comfortable, and stylish during the rainy season, All For You.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Light, Crispy, and Flavorful: Discover the NEW Magic Chips Thin & Crispy

Make your breaktime more fun with the delicious and flavorful Magic Chips Thin & Crispy, available in BBQ and Sour Cream and Onion flavors.

There are days that seem to be repeated, complete with the same tasks, routine, and brief breaks. Because of this, even the smallest pauses should be filled with something enjoyable, tasty, and thrilling to make the day. Stepping away from the screen and having a quick snack break with friends can turn an ordinary moment into something special. 

Presenting the new Magic Chips Thin & Crispy, a lighter version of the popular Magic Chips that will turn everyday breaktimes into genuinely magical experiences. It offers a distinctively light, airy, and flavorful bite by skillfully fusing the delightful crunch of chips with the well-known sarap of crackers (chips na, crackers pa!).

Magic Chips Thin & Crispy are baked rather than fried, making them thinner and crispier than before. Snack lovers can now enjoy a tasty, guilt-free muncharap experience whenever they need a little respite from their hectic schedules. 

Each bite of the delectable BBQ (Barbeque) and Sour Cream & Onion varieties packs a powerful flavor into incredibly thin, crispy pieces that entice snackers to eat more.

Packed in convenient 28g pouches, Magic Chips Thin & Crispy is perfectly portioned for on-the-go snack breaks, study sessions, or commute cravings. Offering a more premium snacking experience at an affordable Suggested Retail Price (SRP) of 8.20 PHP, it is now available in leading retail stores nationwide, and major e-commerce platforms. 

Sometimes, all it takes is one crispy bite to turn an ordinary pause into something magical. So, basta break time, Magic.

Try Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) new Magic Chips Thin & Crispy today. Have a magical and guiltless munching with every crunchy bite.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. Magic Chips Thin & Crispy delivers a light, crunchy, and flavorful snacking experience that’s perfect for anytime cravings. It offers a satisfyingly thin & crispy texture and delicious flavors that make every moment more enjoyable. Packed with delicious flavors and affordably priced, Magic Chips Thin & Crispy lets Filipinos enjoy big taste without feeling weighed down- making every break more magical, whether enjoyed solo or shared with others. To learn more about URC, visit its Website at www.urc.com.ph, Facebook Page and TikTok account.