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CARWORLD OWNER, 2 OTHERS KILLED IN CHOPPER CRASH MALOLOS CITY—A Pampanga businessman, his bodyguard and a pilot died Thursday past noon after their helicopter crashed into a ﬁshpond in Barangay Anilao, Malolos City. Killed were Liberato Laus, owner of the CarWorld chain of car dealers and CLTV36, a regional TV station; the pilot, Capt. Eber Coronel, and Laus’ bodyguard, Wilfran Esteban. Bulacan police said Laus and Coronel were declared dead on arrival at the Bulacan Medical Center while Esteban died while being treated in the emergency room. Witnesses said they saw the red chopper trying to land then suddenly going down and bursting into ﬂames. Civil aviation investigators have been dispatched to the scene of the accident. The chopper left the Ninoy Aquino International Airport general aviation hangar around 12:28 p.m. and was going to San END OF THE LINE. Pampanga business executive Liberato ‘Levy’ Laus (left), owner of the CarWorld chain of car dealers and CLTV 36, a regional TV broadcast station in Central Fernando, Pampanga when the accident Luzon, is killed with helicopter pilot, Capt. Eber Coronel, when their helicopter crashed on a fishpond in Malolos. Laus’ bodyguard Wilfran Esteban died while being treated in a hospital. Next page Orlan Mauricio

VOL. XXXIII • NO. 71 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PRESIDENTIAL WELCOME. Chinese President Xi Jinping greets visiting President Rodrigo Duterte at the Great Hall of the People on Thursday, with the two leaders expected to discuss the South China Sea dispute. AFP

8-quake, tsunami warnings hoisted PHIVOLCS fears movement in Manila Trench

Rody visit yields 2 China deals so far By Vito Barcelo THE Philippines and China have forged two agreements on promoting investment cooperation and drug rehabilitation efforts as the two countries afﬁrmed strong diplomatic ties despite tensions in the disputed South China Sea. The two formal accords were signed after President Rodrigo Duterte met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and agreed to further enhance the bilateral relations at the Great Hall of the People. In a statement, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Philippines and China would come up with a project list that will serve as the focus of cooperation between the National Economic and

Development Authority and the National Development and Reform Commission. “The drug treatment facilities, funded by China through a grant, are located in Sarangani and Agusan del Norte. Ambassador Jose Santiago Sta. Romana signed the document on the country’s behalf while Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan signed for China,” Panelo said. At the start of their meeting, Duterte called for stronger relations between the Philippines and China, saying the bilateral ties were based on mutual trust, respect and friendship. Duterte is in China to attend the second Belt and Road forum for the Philippines. Xi’s Belt and Road Initiative, unveiled

By Rio N. Araja and Vito Barcelo

HE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Thursday said movement in the Manila Trench under the West Philippine Sea could trigger a magnitude-8 earthquake and result in a tsunami that could affect Zambales, Tarlac and Pampanga.

Consumers slam Manila Water refund SOME Manila Water consumers will get a refund that will come from the penalties imposed on the company over a supply shortage that brought misery to sevenmillion consumers in the capital, regulators said Wednesday. The penalties include a P534-million ﬁne and a P600-million fund to develop a new water source. This will be on top of a “self-imposed” P500-million plan to provide ﬁnancial relief to customers, the Metropolitan

Waterworks and Sewerage System said earlier. But a consumer advocacy group said Thursday the P534-million refund was not enough for Manila Water’s sevenmillion consumers who were affected by the recent water service interruptions. Water for the People Network convener Rosario Bella Guzman said the amount would only Next page

MANILA TRENCH. Located west of Luzon and Mindoro, the trench reaches a depth of about 5,400 meters, in contrast with the average depth of the South China Sea of about 1,500 meters. It is created by subduction in which the Sunda Plate is subducting under the Philippine Mobile Belt, producing this almost N-S trending trench. It is associated with frequent earthquakes.

Hunger rate on the decline, SWS says

GIANT RISK. Workers fix the finishing touches on a life-like representation of a dead whale beached at the Cultural Center of the Philippines grounds to inform the public on the perils of ocean pollution. Lino Santos

THE Philippines registered a decline in its hunger rate for the second consecutive quarter, a recent survey by the Social Weather Stations showed. The SWS’ first quarter 2019 hunger rate survey showed that only 9.5 percent or an estimated 2.3-million families experienced “involuntary hunger” at least once in the past three months. In other developments:

Dogs save lives as quake hits

Marijuana: High value export?

THEY are not only man’s best friends. Sometimes they are also called on to save human lives. Senior Police dogs Billy, Thunder and Farah, all members of the MMDA K9 Unit, diligently followed orders in Next page

• President Rodrigo Duterte is tirelessly working to improve the socioeconomic status of the Filipinos, Malacañang said Thursday. “The Chief Executive has been working tirelessly in improving the socioeconomic status of millions of Filipinos for them to lead a more comfortable, secure and prosperous life,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement. Next page

BILLY

THUNDER

FARAH

ALREADY the first country in the world to legalize recreational use of marijuana, Uruguay now aims to go further by becoming the first in Latin America to export it for medicinal purposes.

Such a tsunami could also enter Manila Bay within an hour, said PHIVOLCS Director Renato Solidum, affecting 2.5-million people, 200 schools and 35 hospitals in Metro Manila. It was the second dire warning from Phivolcs in as many days. On Wednesday, Solidum said the West Valley Fault running through six cities in Metro Manila and nearby provinces could move and trigger a magnitude-7.2 earthquake anytime. Next page

Post-quake check on buildings begins By Joel E. Zurbano and Vito Barcelo MAKATI’S Office of the Building Official on Thursday inspected the offices of the Metro Manila Development Authority building on EDSA and Orense Street Next page

News

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Six ’Otso’ volunteers killed in mishap

IX volunteers for the campaign of senatorial candidates under the Otso Diretso slate were killed in a road accident while campaigning in Baguio City.

ing of 8.5 percent is Bayan Muna, which has criticized several policies of President Rodrigo Duterte, including his antinarcotics crackdown, suspension of peace talks with communist rebels and loans from China. • An incumbent councilor in Negros Occidental and his brother were killed in an ambush on Thursday morning, according to Benjie Liwanag’s report on Super Radyo dzBB, beamed nationwide. The victims were identified as Councilor Michael Garcia of Moises Padilla municipality and his brother Mark. A police report said the victims were ambushed around 11 a.m. by more or less 30 armed men while conducting an election campaign together with their sister, Ella Garcia-Yulo, incumbent vice mayor of

Moises Padilla. Garcia-Yulo was unhurt in the ambush. On second spot was Magsasaka with 6.45-percent voter support, followed by the 6.04-percent preference rating logged by Gabriela, which has also slammed Duterte for supposedly misogynistic remarks. Ako Bicol was at the 4th spot. Its representative Rodel Batocabe was assassinated at a gift-giving event in Daraga, Albay in December 2018. A Teacher party-list ranked 5th. Completing the 14 groups that could get one seat each are: Senior Citizens, Buhay, Akbayan, Amin, An Waray, Kalinga, Anakpawis, Cibac, Angkla, Bayan Muna, Magsasaka, Gabriela, Ako Bicol and A Teacher “each garnered the ceiling of three seats,” said Pulse Asia.

Lawyers seek SC writ vs. ‘matrix’

8-quake,...

By Rey E. Requejo

Solidum said there are plans to put up a national government center in Clark Air Base in Pampanga so that key operations would continue in case a powerful earthquake or a tsunami hits Metro Manila. Search and rescue operations, meanwhile, were still ongoing for 14 people still missing in the Chuzon supermarket in Porac, Pampanga, after a 6.1-magnitude earthquake rocked Luzon on Monday. Edgar Posadas, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council spokesman, said rescuers are now lifting the roofing and other debris systematically to find survivors. Posadas acknowledged that there were no new signs of life inside the rubble. “But we’re not giving up,” he said. A lawyer representing the owners of the Chuzon supermarket on Thursday denied any irregularities in the construction of the building. In an interview with GMA News, Adden Sigua, lawyer of Chuzon supermarket owner Samuel Chu, denied suggestions that the four-story supermarket was originally designed as a two-story building. The supermarket collapsed on April 22, burying dozens of people. Seven have been confirmed dead. Chu has promised to give a P50,000 cash assistance to each of the families of those killed in the earthquake and to shoulder the hospital bills of those injured. The number of families affected by Monday’s earthquake has climbed to 1,203 families, consisting of 4,991 individuals. The affected families are residing in 10 cities and municipalities in Central Luzon. Of the total, 965 families or 3,699 persons are being aided in seven evacuation centers, and another 108 families or 648 individuals are being helped outside evacuation centers, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported Thursday in its 6 a.m. update, signed and released by Executive Director Ricardo Jalad. The number of those killed in the tremor remains at 16; the injured, at 86; and the missing, still at 14. These numbers are still subject to validation, the NDRRMC said. About 542 houses were reported to have been damaged in Bataan and Pampanga—142 were destroyed and 400 were partially damaged. A total of 139 structures in the Central Luzon region and the National Capital Region also suffered damage. Some P1.16 million worth of assistance to Central Luzon has been provided by the Office of Civil Defense, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the local government units. The number of people injured on Tuesday’s magnitude-6.5 tremor that shook San Julian, Eastern Samar has risen to 21, the NDRRMC added.

The number of affected families was placed at 68, consisting of 272 persons, residing in 13 barangays in Eastern and Western Samar, the council said. The NDRRMC also reported that 67 houses were damaged in Eastern and Western Samar, four of them destroyed and 63 others partially damaged. The Department of Public Works and Highways on Thursday announced that all national roads and bridges affected by earthquakes are now accessible to the public. “The DPWH Quick Response Teams [DPWH-QRT] were able to assess, fix, and open various roads, bridges, and other infrastructure that were damaged by the recent earthquakes in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao,” Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said . He said the DPWH-QRT were immediately deployed right after the tremors to undertake structural assessment and ensure safety of national roads and public buildings in all areas affected by the earthquakes. “As early as Wednesday, we were able to repair and open Consuelo Bridge in Floridablanca, Pampanga to light vehicles. Assessments of other infrastructure are also being conducted in the entire Central Luzon,” Villar said. The DPWH has also opened the East Lateral Mega Dike in Bacolor, the Floridablanca-Consuelo Bridge, and the SasmuanLubao Road. In Metro Manila, the section of UN Avenue in front of Emilio Aguinaldo College is still cordoned off to one lane to prevent possible damage to passing vehicles from a leaning building. The department has also conducted inspection on 275 national bridges, flyovers, and viaducts, 452 school buildings, and 142 other public buildings in NCR, following the April 22 quake. Based on the DPWH-NCR report, three out of the 275 bridges that were inspected sustained minor damage which include Guadalupe Bridge in Makati City showed a crack on a girder. The Tinejeros and Tanza bridges in Malabon City also showed minor cracks on their railings. Villar said the Guadalupe Bridge is already up for major retrofitting under DPWH Unified Project Management Office, while Tanza Bridge will undergo a second stage of inspection. “The minor damage on Tinejeros Bridge, on the other hand, does not require immediate repair, as railings do not carry load,” he said. A total of 53 school buildings in Metro Manila have also sustained minor damage, mostly cracks on walls, columns, beams, and ceilings, but three school buildings were recommended for immediate structural evaluation. The DPWH is coordinating with the Department of Education for the restoration of structures with major damage. “We are working closely with other national government agencies and stakeholders to ensure that our disaster preparedness, response, and rehabilitation programs are efficient,” he said.

According to a statement from Otso Diretso, the accident involving a vehicle carrying the volunteers occurred in Suello Village on Tuesday. The victims were identified as Julia Labi, Adelina Agsaoay, Elizabeth Panis, Richelda Abigar, Josephine Ag-a, and John Roy Passi. The statement did not provide other details regarding the accident. Marawi civic leader Samira Gutoc, who is among the eight-man slate, offered condolences to the families of the victims on behalf

THE National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers has sought protection from the the Supreme Court against what it claims to be a continuing government harassment of its members. In an eight-page manifestation filed Wednesday, the NUPL submitted to the High Court the matrix released by Malacañang last Monday implicating the group as participants in the alleged destabilization plot against the Duterte administration. Meanwhile, journalist Felipe Salvosa II resigned as Manila Times managing editor days after a matrix linking journalists and lawyers to an alleged ouster plot against Duterte was published by the paper. Salvosa said he resigned effective Wednesday, April 24. “I felt it was time to go after the publication of the ‘matrix’ story. I posted my thoughts on the story and the owners were displeased,” Salvosa told ABS-CBN News. “I was asked to resign but I told them I was planning to quit anyway.” The article about the “oust-Duterte matrix” was written by Manila Times chair-

Post-quake... From A1

in Barangay Guadalupe to check its structural integrity. MMDA chairman Danilo Lim said he requested the post-earthquake assessment to ensure that the eight-story main building that houses the Metrobase, Auditorium, Institute of Traffic Management, Redemption Office and Sports Arena, and all facilities inside are safe for employees and the transacting public. “After the earthquake on Monday, we immediately conducted our own assessment but we deemed it necessary to welcome third-party inspectors,” Lim said. “We want to identify the structural damage we need to address to ensure that the structures are safe for use,” said Lim. Lim, also the concurrent head of Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, on Monday issued a memo directing all concerned member agencies and local disaster risk reduction and management councils to conduct inspections focusing on the structural integrity of all government structures in the National Capital Region. Electrical rooms, server rooms and technical facilities were also inspected. The two strong earthquakes that recently shook Luzon and the Visayas emphasize the urgency for regular building inspections, the vice president of the Association of Structural Engineers, Ronaldo Ison, said. “We should be inspecting buildings from time to time to maintain [their] structural integrity. It is required of us to do these inspections more regularly to determine if the building is okay,” Ison told ABS-CBN News. He said he believed most buildings in Metro Manila comply with the National Building Code and will be able to with-

Consumers... From A1

amount to P60 to P75 when distributed among the consumers. “If that is divided among the sevenmillion customers of Manila Water, we will only have P60 to P75 each,” Guzman told Super Radyo dzBB. The P534-million fine will be deducted from the June bill of the consumers hit by the outage, while their May bill would be slashed with the P500 million self-imposed relief plan, said MWSS Administrator Reynaldo Velasco.

Hunger... From A1

He said the latest SWS survey, which showed a decline in the number of Filipinos experiencing hunger for two consecutive quarters, was a good start. “Much have been done in the first three years and with a workaholic and compassionate leader at the helm, much more

of her fellow opposition bets. In related developments: • Pulse Survey has released its survey showing 14 of the more than 100 party-list groups could get at least one seat up for grabs in the House of Representatives in May’s midterm elections. The 14 groups secured more than 2-percent voter preference in a March 23 to 27 poll, said Pulse Asia in its report released Thursday. At the top spot with a preference rat-

man emeritus and Duterte appointee Dante Ang and published last Monday. The Times, in a statement Thursday attributed to Ang’s son and company president Dante “Klink” Ang II, said Salvosa “did not resign; he was asked to do so.” The paper, Ang II added, stood by its matrix story and said the oust-plot story “was not a PR piece.” The elder Ang “was simply acting on his journalistic instincts, having been given an opportunity to write a legitimate story, that was later confirmed by the Palace,” the statement read. Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo claims the source of the matrix was Duterte himself. The NUPL said such “baseless and reckless” accusation was proof of harassment and intimidation against its officers and members. “These malicious statements and dangerous claims, as well as the contrived matrix above, baseless and reckless as they are, compel the petitioners to again seek at this time the Honorable Court’s protection and reiterate their prayer for a temporary protection order,” the NUPL said. stand a magnitude 7 or higher earthquake. However, older buildings constructed with older materials should be checked, analyzed, and upgraded to comply with the present building code, he said. Monday’s 6.1 magnitude quake disrupted the Climate Smart and Disaster Resilient Asean International Conference at the Bayleaf Hotel. Conference organizer Glenn Banaguas said the quake emphasized that buildings need to be climate smart and disaster resilient to save lives. Also on Thursday, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines urged the government to create mandatory policy standard protocols to protect workers during disasters, following complaints of workers who were not allowed to leave their establishments immediately after Monday’s earthquake. “It is high time to set the country’s mandatory workplace emergency protocol standards for rank-and-file workers in the light of scores of employers who refused to evacuate their employees and maintained a business as usual attitude exposing their employees’ health and safety during the earthquake,” said TUCP president Raymond Mendoza. He said there are no existing government mandatory standards that address this important aspect of workplace safety and health, particularly during emergency situations such as earthquake, fire and other disasters happening in the workplace. “Because there are no specific mandatory guidelines regarding such a life and death scenario, there is a very urgent need to create a regulation or mandatory policy standards protocols now that protect the workers’ health and safety and guides employees and employers on what to do when emergency disasters and calamities occur during working hours,” Mendoza said. With PNA Each consumer would get around P2,000 in refunds for June, he said. Senator Grace Poe said the MWSS should bare how the penalties were computed. “We don’t want the penalties against Manila Water would later on be shouldered by consumers especially once they search for a new water source,” Poe said. Manila Water will abide by the MWSS decision and will hold itself accountable for its “inability to provide our consumers with the usual uninterrupted water service,” said its president and CEO, Ferdinand dela Cruz. would be accomplished in the remainder of PRRD’s term,” he said. • The economies of the Philippines’ 17 regions all grew in 2018, with Bicol expanding at the fastest clip and the National Capital Region accounting for a third of the entire economy. The Bicol Region’s gross domestic product grew 8.9 percent last year, followed by Davao and Mimaropa (Mind-

From A1

Rody... in 2013, aims to bolster a sprawling network of land and sea links with Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. “The Philippines and China must continue to work together to explore new areas of cooperation and partnership. We look forward to a productive discussion on matters of mutual interest and concern,” President Duterte said. Duterte also congratulated China on its 70th founding anniversary and said Xi’s state visit to Manila in November last year was a “watershed moment” in the Philippines-China ties. “The forum provides another opportunity to renew and reaffirm our valued relations based on mutual trust, respect, and friendship and must continue to grow strength and meaning in the coming years,”

he said. “The decision to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive, strategic cooperation affirms the Philippines and China’s strong desire to further deepen and broaden this engagement,” Duterte added. Earlier, Sta. Romana said the Philippines has asked China to practice “self-restraint in the South China Sea, after the presence of several hundred Chinese vessels near Pag-asa Island triggered protests from Manila.” The ambassador said Chinese officials have not responded to the Philippine request. At the same time, Sta. Romana said a suit filed by former Philippine officials against Xi and other Chinese officials before the International Criminal Court would not affect Philippine-China relations. “It has no impact on bilateral relations. China inquired whether it was state-sponsored, [and the] Philippines said it’s not,” Sta. Romana said.

oro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), which both brew by 8.6 percent, the Philippine Statistics Authority said. Metro Maniula accounted for 36 percent of the nation’s GDP followed by Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) with 17 percent and Central Luzon with 9.8 percent, the PSA said. The latest SWS figures showed a de-

cline from 10.5 percent, or an estimated 2.4-million families, who experienced involuntary hunger in the fourth quarter 2018 survey in December and the 13.3 percent or about 3.1-million families in the September 2018 survey. Hunger significantly dropped by 6.6 points in Metro Manila, or from 18.3 percent in December 2018 to 11.7 percent in March 2019. PNA

From A1

Duterte’s war cry clarified: Just a figure of speech PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte’s statement that he would declare war on Canada over its garbage dumped in Manila was merely a figure of speech, according to Defense officials. “That is just a figure of speech to dramatize his extreme displeasure,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to reporters Wednesday night. But he said the government must also “run after the importer of the garbage shipment.” In other developments: • Malacañang on Thursday warned Canada of severe repercussions should it refuse to take back the tons of garbage that were dumped in Philippine ports in 2013. “The seventy years of diplomatic relations between the two countries will be put to naught if Canada will not act with dispatch and finality the resolution of this undiplomatic episode to which we take outrage, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement. Canada should take back its garbage “pronto” or else years of bilateral relations will be “put to naught.” • The Eco-Waste Coalition has urged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to “act fast” on Duterte’s recent statement over its garbage. Duterte, in a speech on Tuesday, slammed Canada over the garbage issue and threatened to declare war against the country if it would not take the trash back by next week. PNA, with Vito Barcelo

Carworld... From A1

occurred, said Eric Apolonio, chief information ofﬁcer of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. Apolonio also said CAAP Director General Capt. Jim Sydiongco ordered the deployment of Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board investigators headed by chief investigator Rainier Baculinao to the crash site. Orlan L. Mauricio and Joel E. Zurbano

Helicopter pilot Capt. Eber Coronel (left) in a recent Facebook post. Contributed Photo

Marijuana:... From A1

It’s taken a year to get to this point but in Nueva Helvecia—120 kilometers (75 miles) west of the capital Montevideo—the first harvest is ready to be sent abroad. Employees of the US company Fotme— the only one currently licensed to export— are cutting and drying the plant before it is exported to Europe, Canada and Australia. In taking this step, Uruguay is joining the ranks of medicinal marijuana exporters dominated by the United Kingdom, which according to United Nations data from 2016, had cornered more than two-thirds of the market. The Netherlands (16.4 percent) and Austria (8.7) are the other major players although a growing number of countries are investing in producing medical marijuana, which is legal in around 30 countries worldwide. “Uruguay has been visionary,” said Jordan Lewis, 46, one of Fotmer’s owners. “The market is growing” and Lewis believes Uruguay—a country in which cannabis can be bought in pharmacies—could lead the way. AFP

Dogs... From A1

the search and rescue efforts in the collapsed supermarket in Porac, Pampanga after a 6.1 magnitude earthquake hit Luzon on Monday. Their heroic acts did not go unnoticed as netizens gave them a fitting tribute online. Pet photography studio Paws&Click posted the photos of the good dogs on Facebook on Wednesday and also paid tribute to the other K9s involved in the operations, namely Ringo, Cody, Chia, Dumbo, Chaplin, and Lucy. The viral post has been shared over 17,000 times. A total of five people—three customers and two employees of Chuzon Supermarket—died in the rubble, while nine other people were rescued, thanks to the valuable assistance of the K9 dogs.

News

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SC OKs trial for military, cops in ‘Morong 23’ By Rey E. Requejo

HE Supreme Court has paved the way for the Sandiganbayan to proceed with the trial of army generals and several police officers involved in the alleged illegal detention of 43 suspected communist rebels, collectively known as the “Morong 43.” In a 12-page resolution, the SC’s Third Division denied the motion for reconsideration filed by retired Lt. Gen. Jorge Segovia, retired Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, Maj. Gen. Joselito Reyes and Brig. Gen. Cristobal Zaragoza; and police officers Marion Balonglong, Allan Nobleza, and Jovily Cabading, seeking the reversal of the resolutions issued by the Sandiganbayan on June 7 and July 25, 2017 denying their motion quash the criminal case filed against them by the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the arrest of the Morong 43. The Ombudsman said that the concerned military and police officers were liable for eight counts of violation of Sections 2 and 4 of R.A. No. 7438, which provides for the rights of person arrested, detained or under custodial investigation. Health workers Jane Balleta, Samson Castillo, Mercy Castro, Merry Clamor, Gary Liberal, Reynaldo Macabenta, Alexis Montes, and Teresa Quinawayan, who are among the Morong 43, filed the charges against them on May 3, 2012. The Ombudsman found probable cause to prosecute the military officials for their failure to inform the basis for the arrest of and provide counsel to the Morong 43.

House leader blames black propaganda for GMA’s ‘poor’ rating By Maricel V. Cruz

RED ALERT. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, Senate Chairman Committee on Energy with Rep. Carlos Roman Uybarreta, vicechairman of the House committee on Energy field questions to DOE Undersecretary Felix Fuentebella and DOE Assistant Secretary Redentor Delola during the Senate’s public hearing on the recent spate of power outages in luzon after the national Grid Corporation of the Philippines placed the Luzon grid on ‘red alert’ due to the simultaneous shutdown of five power plants. Lino Santos

Impose price cap on WESM on alerts—groups By Alena Mae S. Flores FOLLOWING the declaration of yellow and red alerts over the Luzon grid in the past few seeks, a top ofﬁcial of a consumer group has called on the Energy Regulatory Commission, the Department of Energy, and the operator of the wholesale electricity spot market to impose a price cap. In a position paper issued even before the Senate Enrgy Committee meeting set

April 25, Laban Konsyumer president Vic Dimagiba urged regulators to issue an order to “stay WESM prices at pre-red/ yellow alerts.” “I also suggest and recommend that the regulators follow the money trail. Who are the suppliers that are taking advantage of the supply deﬁciency. Industry should be transparent. Consumers have the right to know what is happening to the grid,” Dimagiba said. Dimagiba said that Chapter 6 of WESM

Rules, allows the spot market operator under certain conditions to implement market suspension and impose an “administrative price cap” to assure price behavior to be approved by the ERC. Citing the weekly summary report of WESM for week 14 and 15 or from April 1 to 14, Dimagiba observed that the hourly proﬁle of load weighted average prices for Luzon ranges from a low of P4,000 to a high of P38,000 pesos per megawatt hour.

2.9-m Filipino children remain unvaccinated—UNICEF AN ESTIMATED 2.9-million Filipino children are unvaccinated and remain vulnerable to life-threatening diseases such as measles, rubella and polio, UNICEF highlights today as it marks World Immunization Week from April 24 to 30. The measles immunization coverage in the country has declined at an alarming rate, from 88 percent in 2013 to 73 percent in 2017. In 2018, measles immunization coverage was recorded at less than 70 percent, far below the 95

percent required for population immunity. Public hesitancy, vaccine stock-outs, the lack of aptly trained health workers and accessibility of hard-to-reach areas put many children susceptible to diseases. This leads to more outbreaks and put more children at-risk of getting sick from life-threatening diseases. “Every child has the right to the best possible health care and access to disease protection through timely vaccination. Vaccines are the safest and most effective

way of saving lives,” says UNICEF Representative a.i. Julia Rees. While Philippine laws support immunization through the Mandatory Infants and Children Health Immunization Act or Republic Act 1052 that makes basic immunization mandatory and free at any government hospitals or health centers for infants and children up to ﬁve years of age. UNICEF advocates that the unﬁnished business of immunization is every child’s right and everyone’s business.

SPEAKER Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s survey rating, notwithstanding a big four percentage point increase, was affected by the black propaganda waged by a few politicians who have an axe to grind, the latest of which is her stand on the national budget controversy. This was the statement of House Majority Leader and Albay Rep. Fredenil Castro in the wake of the Social Weather Stations recent survey result that showed Arroyo’s net satisfaction rating at “poor” during the ﬁrst quarter of 2019 but was “up by 4 percentage points”—from -21 in December 2018 to -17 in March 2019. “It is but natural that the [survey rating of the] Speaker would be affected by black propaganda about the budget,” Castro said, referring to the issue on insertions where the Senate and the House exposed each other’s alleged insertions. However, what is important was the eventual approval by both houses of the Congress and its signing by President Rodrigo Duterte into law of the national budget to push the priority programs of the administration, Castro added. “That is what is important—the passage of the budget and the implementation of the programs and projects that will beneﬁt the people including the Build Build Build program, universal health case, free tertiary eduction and many others,” Castro said. He also lauded Arroyo for immediately personally attending to the concerns of earthquake victims in the badly hit areas of Pampanga and ensuring that everything will return to normalcy as soon as possible following the 6.1-magnitude earthquake that struck parts of Luzon on Monday afternoon.

Opinion

FRIDAY, ARPIL 26, 2019

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Why vote for Enrile? THERE are only 17 days left before the May 13 midterm elections. At this stage in the homestretch of the political campaign, voters are asking themselves who they will and should elect into office. This is a crucial decision only they can make. Voters know and are familiar with candidates for local positions like congressmen, governors, mayors, councilors, etc. But it is at the national level where senators are running at large and where the stakes are higher. There are only 12 senatoial candidates who can make it to the winning column. This is where I would like to make known my preferences, foremost of whom is to return former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile to

There is only Juan who has the intellectual capacity and grasp of the law.

the upper chamber. There are doubters that Enrile at 94 is too old to stand the rigors and demanding duty of a lawmaker. But the man has the energy and competence for the job. This, JPE has proven when he took to the hustings and campaigned as hard as the younger candidates under the scorching sun and sometimes rain in the southern part of the country. So far Enrile in his campaign has covered Northern provinces including his hometown of Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan,

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

Ilocos Sur, Bicol, Quezon and Aurora For sure, I will be accused of being biased for the man because we are in the same 365 Club that meets every Thursday and Saturday at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Makati for coffee to talk about current issues in governance. And it is here in this twicea-week meeting for morning coffee and exchange of political views that I would listen to the man and learn. Enrile holds court at the 365 but does not monopolize the discussion; he would ask me, fellow columnist Emil Jurado and others what their views are on the day’s headlines. I am amazed at the man for his intelligence in local and global events and how both are intertwined to explain why such are relevant in the present scheme of things. There is a saying that one can be history if one is not current. That also goes the other way that one does not have the currency of thought if he does not have a sense of history. This is the area where I find Enrile in his element. Enrile is without peer in his uncanny memory for world history on subjects such as politics, economics, religion literature and culture. We at the 365 are amazed at how Enrile can remember historical names like Disraeli, Robespierre, Cromwell, Omar Khayam and the significant roles they played in the history of the world. Listening to Enrile is more than being enthralled; it is a learning experience. This I dare say—there is only Juan who has the intellectual capacity and grasp of the law—given all the other reelectionists, incumbents and newcomer candidates to the Senate combined can match Enrile’s qualifications. Is Enrile too old for the Senate? My answer to that is the living example of Dr. Mahathir Mohammad who at age 94 was voted back as Prime Minister by the people of Malaysia. This

MWSS also at fault

HE Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewarage System was right in slapping Manila Water Co. Inc. with a P1.1billion fine for the company's failure to provide water supply 24 hours a day to its consumers in Metro Manila and Rizal province in violation of the concession agreement with the government. But the state regulator was also remiss in its duty of looking for a new source of raw water, despite the urgent call of Manila Water in the past several years. Manila Water correctly pointed out that the development of new water sources was ultimately the responsibility of MWSS under the concession agreement. President Rodrigo Duterte, thus, should crack the whip on the MWSS after the regulator neglected its responsibility to identify and develop a new source of raw water. Manila Water said it had strongly and long advocated for the development of new

water sources aside from Angat Dam to ensure sufficient supply as well as resiliency in case of any calamity around the facility. Relying on a single source of water, in this case Angat Dam, is untenable because of its limited capacity compared with the rising demand in the metropolis. Angat Dam is also an aging facility and is relied to provide the irrigation requirements of farmers in Bulacan. The MWSS was very much aware of the water supply deficiency and the increasing demand from Metro Manila consumers. Manila Water's

water supply allocation from Angat Dam is no longer sufficient for the total demand of the East Zone consumers. The company noted that its raw water allocation from Angat Dam had remained unchanged at 1,600 millions of liters per day since obtaining the concession started in 1997, when the East Zone had a population of just three-million people. Manila Water now serves almost seven-million people whose per capita consumption has significantly increased through over two decades of economic progress in Metro Manila. The MWSS should no longer dilly-dally on the lingering water supply problem. The private sector has already offered to develop alternative sources of water to augment the supply from Angat Dam. Ranking officials of the MWSS should quit if they are not up to the task.

Turn to A5

Will Comelec decide Dapitan City race? IT LOOKS like the power of the Commission on Elections to disqualify candidates in an election has been put under the microscope. More and more people realize that the exercise of this power may have become arbitrary and whimsical. Unless the Comelec clarifies the basis and process by which it disqualifies candidates, the 2019 election may be a watershed for this constitutional body, credibility-wise. Some of our colleagues in media recently lamented a move by the Comelec legal department to have certain candidates with outstanding credentials disqualified. Reason: Lack of money to sustain a campaign. The move triggered fears that the Comelec may be showing bias for rich candidates and may have unintentionally told voters that wealth is a better basis for choosing candidates than merit. Many are also asking if the exercise of this power by the Comelec may be impinging on the right of voters to choose those who they want to govern them. It appears this is the same question is being asked by the people of Dapitan City, Zamboanga Del Norte. The poll body earlier backed a petition to have a mayoralty candidate disqualified. The petition was filed by the Jalosjos clan which has wielded much political influence in that part of Zamboanga del Norte over the past few decades. The object of the petition for disqualification is candidate Evelyn ‘Belen’ Uy who is challenging the incumbent, Rosalina “Nene” JalosjosJohnson. Jalosjos-Johnson is the member of this powerful clan. She returned to the Philippines from the United States in

2013 to run for the seat which was once occupied by her brothers. Jalosjos-Johnson—whose citizenship was questioned when she ran for Dapitan City mayor in 2013—had moved to have Uy stricken off the ballot based on allegations that the latter did not meet the residency requirements. The local Comelec—almost predictably—granted Jalosjos-Johnson’s petition. Uy, however, contested the local Comelec ruling and elevated the case to the court. Both the municipal and

It may not be easy for the poll body to toe the Jalosjos line and disqualify Uy. regional trial courts gave Uy favor favorable decisions and allowed her to run as Dapitan City Mayor. The Jalosjos-Johnson camp has brought the issue back to the Comelec national, and got a favorable decision from the first division. Now, Uy has appealed the decision of the Comelec first division before the Comelec en banc. The situation appears to have put the Comelec in a bind. It looks like it may have to be more prudent in the exercise of its power to disqualify a candidate for public office. We can only commiserate with the Comelec. It is facing a powerful political force in the Jalosjos clan. To rule in favor of Uy may mean endangering the hold of the Jalosjos clan in Dapitan City. We are sure no one in the Comelec may wish to earn the ire of the Jalosjos clan. After all, Dapitan City appears to be the last political stronghold of the Jalosjoses. They lost miserably in the 2013 elections. Different members of the clan made bids for the Turn to A5

China's island cities: Treasure or trouble for Asia? By Poornima Weerasekara A HIGH-RISE city the size of central London rising out of the ocean next to Sri Lanka's capital is laying down another marker for China's global infrastructure ambitions whose epic scope is sounding alarm bells in Asia and beyond. When it is completed, Port City will effectively double Colombo's size and be part of a glimmering trio of new, Chinese-funded islands alongside a manmade archipelago off Malaysia and a planned futuristic metropolis adjoining Manila. The projects have been linked to China's Belt and Road Initiative, a sweep-

ing trillion-dollar infrastructure program across Asia, Africa and Europe that is viewed with deep suspicion by countries like India and the United States and has divided opinion within the EU. And in Sri Lanka, Malaysia and the Philippines, increasingly vocal concerns are being raised about the environmental impact of the island cities, a lack of transparency surrounding their funding and the possibility of a Chinese-sprung debt trap. The island-building spree is "part of a big picture of China's rapidly expanding global influence done through connectivity," said Wang Jiangyu, an associate professor at the National University of

Singapore's law faculty. Port City will serve as a base for China in South Asia as well as a "model project which would showcase what big change China could bring to the countries, especially the less developed ones, along the BRI," Wang said. Leaders from 37 countries have been converging in Beijing for a BRI summit that opened Thursday, hoping to grab a piece of the $1 trillion pie to improve their infrastructure. Critics say the initiative comes with a heavy price as it favors Chinese companies and exacerbates debt problems in some countries. Turn to A5

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Opinion

FRIDAY, ARPIL 26, 2019

Exploit-the-Earth Day

A President made by Russia WAS Donald Trump, the American president, made by Russia? “The Russian government interfered in the 2016 presidential election in sweeping and systematic fashion,” declares the two-volume 448-page report by Special Counsel Robert Mueller III, entitled “Report On The Investigation Into Russian Interference In The 2016 Presidential Election” and made public on April 18, 2019, with redactions or erasures. According to Wikipedia, the Russian government interfered in the 2016 U.S. presidential election to harm the campaign of Hillary Clinton, boost the candidacy of Donald Trump, and sow political discord in the United States. Russian President Vladimir Putin personally directed the operation. He didn’t like Clinton whom the Russians suspected, when she was President Obama’s secretary of state, to be behind the 2011-2012 mass protests in Russia against Putin’s rule. Also, with Clinton in the White House, the Kremlin believed it would be almost impossible to lift US sanctions against Russia following Russian military intervention in Ukraine in February 2014. Finally, Trump wanted to put up a tower in Moscow. Whether thanks to Russian interference and/or the gullibility of American voters, Trump was elected the 45th president of the world’s most powerful nation on Nov. 8, 2016, despite losing the popular vote by three million votes or by 2.1 percent, to Clinton. Trump won the electoral college vote, 304 to Clinton’s 227. Clinton’s electoral college loss came mainly from her losing the electoral college votes of three former Democratic strongholds—Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania, by just 40,000 votes. Said political analyst David Axelrod, “the Russians targeted voters in swing states.” US intelligence agencies concluded on Jan. 6, 2017, that the Russian government had interfered in the elections in order to “undermine public faith in the US democratic process, denigrate Secretary Clinton, and harm her electability and potential presidency.” The Special Counsel Mueller’s Office determined that Russia’s two principal interference operations in the 2016 US presidential election—the social media campaign and the hacking-and-dumping operations—violated US criminal law. Mueller has charged many of the in-

Will Comelec... From A4

several elective posts in Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay. They lost all bids except for, maybe, two. Cesar, brother of family patriarch Romeo ‘Nonong’ Jalosjos, lost miserably to the husband of Uy—Berto—in the Zamboanga del Norte gubernatorial race. Their sister, Cely Jalosjos lost just as miserably to Belen Uy herself in the contest for the mayoralty of Dipolog. If the previous two elections would be the basis of a trend, it may be safe to assume that chances are high that Jalosjos-Johnson faces a tough fight if the Comelec follows the earlier decisions by the municipal and regional trial courts and allows Belen Uy to stay in the running. On the other hand, it may not be

China’s... From A4

'Hidden debt trap' In Colombo, two-thirds of the 665acre (269-hectare) artificial island located near a deep-sea container port will be given to the Chinese developer on a 99-year lease. The land reclamation work ended in January and high-rises now need to be built, with the aim of creating a financial hub rivaling Dubai or Singapore. The islands promise to bring muchneeded development to poorer countries like Sri Lanka, whose capital is reeling from the deadly Easter Sunday bombings. But it comes with a "hidden debt trap," warned Ranil Senanayake, a former advisor to the ministry of megapolis development, which oversees the project.

dividuals and entities for “conspiracy to defraud the United States by undermining through deceptive acts the work of federal agencies charged with regulating foreign influence in US elections, as well as related counts of identity theft.” Separately, Russian intelligence officers who carried out the hacking into Democratic Party computers and the personal email accounts of individuals affiliated with the Clinton Campaign conspired to violate, among other federal laws, the federal computer-intrusion statute, and they have been so charged. The Special Counsel investigation, which concluded in March 2019, resulted in indictments of 26 Russian citizens and three Russian organizations.

Whether thanks to Russian interference and/or the gullibility of American voters, Trump was elected the 45th president of the world’s most powerful nation.

witness on behalf of Manafort Kilimnik has ties with Paul Manafort, the campaign chairman for Trump and is now a convicted felon. Kilimnik is believed by CNN and The New York Times to be “Person A” listed in court documents filed by the Special Counsel against Manafort, which allege that Person A has ties to Russian intelligence agencies, or is a Russian intelligence operative. He is also believed to be Person A in court documents filed in the criminal indictment of Alex van der Zwaan. In 2017 Kilimnik denied any such intelligence ties. Says the Mueller Report: “Evidence of Russian government operations began to surface in mid2016. In June, the Democratic National Committee and its cyber response team hack publicly announced that Russian hackers had compromised its computer network. Releases of hacked materialshacks that public reporting soon attributed to the Russian government-began that same month. Additional releases followed in July through the organization WikiLeaks, with further releases in October and November.” “In late July 2016, soon after WikiLeaks’s first release of stolen documents, a foreign government con contacted the FBI about a May 2016 en encounter with Trump Campaign foreign policy advisor George Papadopoulos. Papadopoulos had suggested to a rep representative of that foreign government that the Trump Campaign had received indications from the Russian government that it could assist the Campaign through the anonymous release of information damaging to Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. That information prompted the FBI on July 31, 2016, to open an investigation into whether individuals associated with the Trump Campaign were coordinating with the Russian government in its interference activities.” “That fall, two federal agencies jointly announced that the Russian government “directed recent compromises of emails from US persons and institutions, including US political organizations,” and, “[t]hese thefts and disclosures are intended to interfere with the US election process.” After the election, in late December 2016, the United States imposed sanctions on Russia for having interfered in the election. By early 2017, several congressional committees were examining Russia’s interference in the election.” Despite the Russian interference, Mueller concluded there was no collusion between the Trump Campaign and Russia. Besides, “collusion” is not a crime under American law.

Netyk In US v. Viktor Borisovich Netyksho, a federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment on July 13, 2018, against 12 Russian nationals for their alleged roles in computer hacking conspiracies aimed at interfering in the 2016 US elections. The indictment charges 11 of the defendants with conspiracy to commit computer crimes, eight counts of aggravated identity theft, and conspiracy to launder money. Two defendants are charged with a separate conspiracy to commit computer crimes. In US v. Internet Research Agency, a federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned an indictment on Feb. 16, 2018, against 13 Russian nationals and three Russian entities accused of violating US criminal laws in order to interfere with US elections and political processes. The indictment charges all of the defendants with conspiracy to defraud the United States, three defendants with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and five defendants with aggravated identity theft. In US v. Konstantin Kilimnik, a federal grand jury in the District of Columbia returned a third superseding indictment on June 8, 2018, against Konstantin Kilimnik, of Moscow, Russia. Kilimnik is charged with conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of justice by attempting to tamper with a biznewsasia@gmail.com

easy for the Comelec to toe the Jalosjos line and disqualify Uy. After all, local political pundits say, the Jalosjos family was a last-minute Duterte ‘convert’ after initially supporting former Vice President Jojo Binay and Senator Grace Poe in the 2016 presidential election. It bears noting that Uy’s eligibility to contest the Dapitan City mayoralty seat has the backing of the courts. It may be difficult for the Comelec to explain why it would disagree with the judiciary on this matter. To do so might lead to more speculations that the body may have succumbed to political pressure or may be acting arbitrarily and whimsically as alleged by those disqualified to run for Senate seats. The other problem is this: Should the Comelec rule in favor of the Jalosjos clan, that would mean deciding the elections in favor of the incumbent. This would mean a technical knock-

out win against Uy. She would have lost the election even before the voters of Dapitan City would have had the chance to go to their precincts to cast their ballots. This will not be an easy task for the Comelec, particularly now that its power to disqualify political aspirants is being scrutinized. It will have to move very carefully in this particular case. The decision it will make here could mean allowing the incumbent Jalosjos to lose the clan’s last political stronghold. The Comelec decision could also mean taking away from the voters of Dapitan City the sole prerogative to elect their mayor. The Comelec could end up making that decision instead of the city’s electorate. We hope the Comelec en banc finds a Solomonic solution to this dilemma.

"Our sewage and garbage disposal systems are cracking at their seams. So how can we support a so-called worldclass city?" Senanayake told AFP. "Either we have to borrow heavily to offer these services or its going to place a heavy burden on the Sri Lankan taxpayers." The interest rate for Chinese loans to Sri Lanka is about 6.5 percent, double what other major lenders, India and Japan, charge, said Dushni Weerakoon, an independent economist. Sri Lanka already had to hand a 99year lease to China for its Hambantota deep-sea port because it could not repay loans to Beijing for the $1.4-billion project. The lack of transparency in deals struck between local governments and developers remains a thorny issue on Belt and Road-related projects. In Port City, representatives of the Chinese developer will be part of a

"governing body" overlooking investment decisions linked to the artificial island, local media reported. "The public has been left in the dark about this new governing body and it creates major concerns over the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country," Senanayake said. Sri Lankan Economic Reforms Minister Harsha de Silva, who is involved in creating the governing body, could not be reached for comment. The developer, China Communications Construction Co., and its Sri Lankan subsidiary declined to comment. In Malaysia, the four-island project will belong to the developer—a joint venture between Hong-Kong listed Country Garden and a local government-owned company, said Ryan Khoo, a property consultant from Alpha Marketing specializing in southern Malaysia projects. With two-thirds of units sold to

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EARTH DAY is intended to further the cause of environmentalism. However, environmentalism is an anti-human ideology. Therefore, those who care about human life should not celebrate Earth Day; they should celebrate Exploit-the-Earth Day. Why? Either man takes the Earth’s raw materials—such as trees, petroleum, aluminum, and atoms—and transforms them into the requirements of his life, or he dies. To live, man must produce the goods on which his life depends; he must produce homes, cars, computers, electricity, and the like; he must seize nature and use it to his advantage. There is no escaping this fact. Even the allegedly “noble” savage must pick or perish. Even if a person produces nothing, as long as he remains alive, he indirectly exploits the Earth by parasitically surviving off the exploitative efforts of others. Exploiting the Earth—using the raw materials of nature for one’s life-serving purposes—is a basic requirement of human life. According to environmentalism, however, man should not use nature for his needs; he should keep his hands off “the goods;” he should leave nature alone, come what may. Environmentalism is not concerned with human health and well-being— neither ours nor that of generations to come. If it were, it would advocate the one social system that ensures that the Earth and its elements are used in the most productive, life-serving manner possible: capitalism. Capitalism is the only social system that recognizes and protects each individual’s right to act in accordance with his basic means of living: the judgment of his mind. Environmentalism, of course, does not and cannot advocate capitalism, because if people are free to act on their judgment, they will strive to produce and prosper; they will transform the raw materials of nature into the requirements of human life; they will exploit the Earth and live. Environmentalism rejects the basic moral premise of capitalism—the idea that people should be free to act on their judgment—because it rejects a more fundamental idea on which capitalism rests: the idea that the requirements of human life constitute the standard of moral value. While the standard of value underlying capitalism is human life (that which is necessary for human beings to live and prosper), the standard of value underlying environmentalism is nature untouched by man. The basic principle of environmentalism is that nature—“the environment”— has intrinsic value—value in and of itself, value apart from and irrespective of the requirements of human life—and that this value must be protected from its only adversary: Man. Rivers must be left free to flow unimpeded by human dams,

Why vote... From A4

goes to show that there is no age limit for leadership and intelligence. The young ones in the Senate can learn a lot from the young once Juan Ponce Enrile. He recalled that during his sorties in the provinces he was surprised how the millennials or the young ones in the crowd would sidle up to him for a selfie. “This is what gives me the energy to continue my campaign knowing that I can relate to the young and not only to senior citizens.” Enrile is known as the Marcos martial law architect and administrator. But he is also known as a benevolent mainland Chinese buyers well before the $100 billion project is completed in 2035, Forest City became a lightning rod at growing Chinese influence in Malaysia during elections last year. Country Garden said in a statement it has a diverse customer base from over 30 countries and the new government has "clarified that foreigners are allowed to purchase properties at Forest City." "Helping Chinese people—and in turn, Chinese business opportunities— pread around the region and throughout the world is one of the more underappreciated functions of the BRI," said Will Doig, author of "High-Speed Empire: Chinese Expansion and the Future of Southeast Asia." Environmental concerns Building islands is "faster and cheaper" because it doesn't require relocating thousands of residents, said a former Country Garden employee.

which divert natural flows, alter natural landscapes, and disrupt wildlife habitats. Glaciers must be left free to grow or shrink according to natural causes, but any human activity that might affect their size must be prohibited. Naturally generated carbon dioxide (such as that emitted by oceans and volcanos) and naturally generated methane (such as that emitted by swamps and termites) may contribute to the greenhouse effect, but such gasses must not be produced by man. The globe may warm or cool naturally—via increases or decreases in sunspot activity but man must not do anything to affect its temperature. And so on.

To live, man must produce the goods on which his life depends; he must produce homes, cars, computers, electricity, and the like. In short, according to environmen environmeneftalism, if nature affects nature, the ef fect is good; if man affects nature, the effect is evil. Stating the essence of environmentalism in such stark terms raises some illuminating questions: If the good is nature untouched by man, how is man to live? What is he to eat? What is he to wear? Where is he to reside? How can man do anything his life requires without altering, harming, or destroying some aspect of nature? In order to nourish himself, man must consume meat, vegetables, fruits, and the like. In order to make clothing, he must skin animals, pick cotton, manufacture polyester, and the like. In order to build a house—or even a hut—he must cut down trees, dig up clay, make fires, bake bricks, and so forth. Each and every action man takes to support or sustain his life entails the exploitation of nature. Thus, on the premise of environmentalism, man has no right to exist. It comes down to this: Each of us has a choice to make. Will I recognize that man’s life is the standard of moral value—that the good is that which sustains and furthers human life—and thus people have a moral right to use the Earth and its elements for their lifeserving needs? Or will I accept the notion that nature has “intrinsic” value— value in and of itself, value apart from and irrespective of human needs—and thus people have no right to exist? There is no middle ground here. Either human life is the standard of moral value, or it is not. Either nature has intrinsic value, or it does not. Let the world know where you stand. Don’t celebrate Earth Day; celebrate Exploit-the-Earth Day—and let your friends, family, and associates know why. eric.jurado@gmail.com

key figure of martial law who helped many to be released from prison and the extremism of military personnel. Media figures who were incarcerated during martial law remember how Enrile interceded in their behalf to be released from Camp Crame detention. Will Enrile make it in the Magic 12 of senatorial winners? Both Social Weather Stations and Pulse Asia list the veteran lawmaker in the 11 to 14 ranking. But Enrile is unfazed by the SWS and Pulse Asia polls claiming these surveys are not always correct given the small number of voters polled and the area covered. At the homestretch of the campaign, Enrile I think, is within striking distance to make it to the Magic 12. But the projects have raised concerns about coastal erosion, the fate of fishermen and the effects on neighboring cities. In the Philippines, opponents of the proposed man-made island fear it could heighten flood risks and worsen congestion in neighboring Manila. "We're already finding it hard to solve such problems, and now we're looking for more?" Philippine activist Mark Anthony Abenir wrote in the Rappler news website in February. In Colombo Hemantha Withanage, a lawyer who has sued the Chinese developer and the Sri Lankan government, claims the project was approved without a proper environmental impact assessment. The project has also affected the livelihoods of 15,000 fishermen, and Withanage said compensation offered to them has "disappeared" into the pockets of local officials. AFP

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FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

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Republic of the Philippines COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS Intramuros, Manila EN BANC IN THE MATTER OF THE FILING OF THE PETITION FOR ACCREDITATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DETERMINING THE DOMINANT MAJORITY PARTY, DOMINANT MINORITY PARTY, TEN (10) MAJOR NATIONAL PARTIES AND TWO (2) MAJOR LOCAL PARTIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE MAY 13, 2019 NATIONAL AND LOCAL ELECTIONS x-----------------------------------------------------x

ORDER Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No.10514 promulgated on March 25, 2019, the following petitions for accreditation for the purpose of determining the dominant majority party, dominant minority party, ten (10) major national parties and two (2) major local parties were filed before the Clerk of the Commission in connection with the May 13, 2019 National and Local Elections: SPP 2019 (DM)

TITLE OF THE CASE

SPP 19-001 (DM)

In Re: Petition to be Declared as the Major Local Political Party for Quezon City for the 13 May 2019 Elections

SPP 19-002 (DM)

Re: Petition for Accreditation as Major Local Local Party

SPP 19-003 (DM)

Re: Petition for Accreditation as Major Local Party

SPP 19-004 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation as One of the Two (2) Major Local Parties for Purposes of the 13 May 2019 NLE

Serbisyo Sa Bayan Party (SBP)

Hugpong ng Pagbabago

Hugpong Sa Tawong Lungsod

Bileg Party, herein represented by Ryan Luis V. Singson and Edgar I. Yabes, Party President and SecretaryGeneral, respectively 5

SPP 19-005 (DM)

In the Matter of the Accreditation of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan as the Dominant Majority Party in May 13, 2019 NLE Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP LABAN), rep. by Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III in his capacity as the National President of PDP-LABAN

SPP 19-006 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation of Partido Abe Kapampangan (PAK) as a Major Local Party in the City of Angeles in Connection with the 09 May 2016 NLE

SPP 19-007 (DM)

Re: Petition for Accreditation of Unang Sigaw (Partido Ng Pagbabago) as One of the Two (2) Major Local Political Parties in the Province of Nueva Ecija in Connection with the May 13, 2019 NLE

Partido Abe Kapampangan (PAK)

Gaisano son-in-law nabbed, 9 co-accused still at large By Rey Requejo

HE Bureau of Immigration has been ordered to stop 10 individuals from leaving the country, including the son-in-law of a Cebuano mall tycoon who was earlier arrested after being indicted for syndicated estafa. In a five-page Hold Departure Order dated April 8, 2019, copy of which was furnished the Department of Justice, Presiding Judge James Stewart Ramon E. Himalaloan of Cebu City Regional Trial Court, Branch 7, directed the BI commissioner and all its Immigration officers to stop Derwin Wong and nine others from leaving the country. “You are hereby ordered to restrain and enjoin the following accused from leaving in all airports and seaports of the Republic henceforth and until further order of this court . . .” the order stated. The HDO was issued after the Cebu City RTC ordered the arrest of Derwin, Wong Chung Yin, also known as David Wong; Derick Wong; Diane Wong; Davidson Wong; Lucy Chua; Juvy Ting; Susan Lu; Beverly Ansay; and Leonardo Marsan who have

been indicted for syndicated estafa over the alleged unauthorized trading of more than P24million investment of one of Gaisano’s daughters—Valerie Gaisano-Sebastian. Derwin, the son-in-law of Edmund “Eddie” Gaisano Sr., was arrested in his condominium in Makati City and authorities presented him before the Cebu City court last April 17. The accused is married to Eda Frances, one of Gaisano’s daughters. The nine other accused remains at large. Derwin, whose family used to run DW Capital Inc., will remain in detention while the case for syndicated or large-scale estafa, a non-bailable offense, is being tried by the court. The complainants’ lawyer Edgar Gica urged Derwin’s co-accused “to voluntarily surrender to the

authorities to face the charge [and] to give them the opportunity to air their side.” “I also appeal to the public to report to the National Bureau of Investigation or the police of (sic) any information that will lead to the arrest of any of the accused,” the counsel said. Since Derwin is now under the jurisdiction of the court, the arraignment and subsequently the trial of the accused can already proceed. In her complaint, GaisanoSebastian accused Derwin of allegedly trading her P24-million investment without her consent. The complainant said the accused con vinced them to be actively involved in stock market trading and eventually persuaded her and some members of her immediate family to entrust the trading of their shares to DWCI. At the start, Gaisano-Sebastian recalled their transactions with DWCI were straightforward con siderng that they live in Cebu City, while the bro kerage firm is in Makati City. Their business transactions were usually done through telephone calls and fax.

Unang Sigaw (Partido Ng Pagbabago) Represented by its Exective Chairperson, Aurelio Matias Umali 8

SPP 19-008 (DM)

Re: Petition for Accreditation of Arangkada San Joseño as One of the Two (2) Major Local Political Parties in the City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan in Connection with the May 13, 2019 NLE Arangkada San Joseño Represented by its Party President Jose J. Abela

SPP 19-009 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation as Dominant Majority, Dominant Minority, or One of the Ten (10) Major National Parties for Purposes of the 13 May 2019 Synchronized NLE Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 10514 United Nationalist Alliance (“UNA”) represented herein by its Party President, Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay and its Party Treasurer, Margarito B. Teves

SPP 19-010 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation for Determination as a Major Local Party in the City of Makati for Purposes of the 2019 NLE Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 10514 Sulong Dignidad Regional Political Party (Formerly UNA ANG MAKATI), represented herein by its Party President, Atty. Rico Paolo R. Quicho and its Secretary General, Leslie Anne Umaly

SPP 19-011 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation for Determination as a Major Local Party in the City of Manila for Purposes of the 2019 NLE Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 10514 Asenso Manileño Movement represented herein by its Party President, Maria Sheilah “Honey” H. Lacuna-Pangan and its Secretary General, Felixberto D. Espiritu

SPP 19-012 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation for Determination as a Major Local Party in the Province of Zambales for Purposes of the 2019 NLE Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 10514 Malayang Kilusan ng mga Mamamayang Zambaleño, represented herein by its Party President, Atty. Omar Deloso and its Secretary General Atty. Domingo B. Diviva V

SPP 19-013 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation for Determination as a Major Local Party in the City of Navotas for Purposes of the 2019 NLE Pursuant to Comelec Resolution No. 10514

GRANDIOSE FESTIVAL. A worker from Cebu fixes the Infant Jesus image of the Sinulog-themed float in

preparation for the Aliwan Fiesta parade from the Luneta to the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex, a 3.2-kilometer stretch on the Manila Bay shoreline facing the tadpole-shaped Corregidor Island. The Aliwan Fiesta opened Thursday to the public and will end tomorrow at the CCP Complex in Pasay. Lino Santos

Partido Navoteño represented herein by its Party Chairman TOBIAS REYNALD M. TIANGCO 14

SPP 19-014 (DM)

In Re: Accreditation of the Laban Ng Demokratikong Pilipino as a Major National Political Party in the 2019 National Elections

1. 2.

Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara, President, Reynaldo A. Regalado, Secretary-General 15

SPP 19-015 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation as the one of the Ten (10) Major National Political Parties in the May 13, 2019 NLE National Unity Party herein represented by its Secretary General, Reginald S. Velasco

SPP 19-016 (DM)

In the Matter of the Petition for Accreditation as a Major National Political Party in the May 13, 2019 NLE Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats (LAKAS CMD), represented herein by its Secretary General, Prospero A. Pichay, Jr.

SPP 19-017 (DM)

Petition for Accreditation as the Dommant Majority Party or the Dommant Minority Party or as One of the Major National Political Parties Pursuant to Section 34 of RA No. 9369 and Comelec Resolution No. 10514 Dated 25 March 2019 in Connection With the May 13, 2019 NLE

SPP 19-018 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation for the Purpose of Determining the Dominant Majority Party, Dominant Minority Party, Ten (10) Major National Parties and Two (2) Major Local Parties in Connection with the 13 May 2019 NLE

Nacionalista Party

Liberal Party (LP), represented by its President, Francis N. Pangilinan, and/ or its Secretary General, Jose Christopher Y. Belmonte 19

SPP 19-019 (DM)

In Re: Petition for Accreditation as a Dominant Minority Party and/ or a Major National Party in Connection with the 2019 NLE

SPP 19-020 (DM)

In the Matter of the Petition for Accreditation of Workers and Peasants Party (WPP) or Partido ng Manggagawa at Magsasaka (PMM) “also known as” Labor Party Philippmes (LPP), formerly Lapiang Manggagawa

Aksyon Demokratiko

For Accreditation as a National Political Party The Commission (En Banc), hereby orders that the foregoing petitions be set for hearing on April 30, 2019 at 2:00 p.m., Comelec Session Hall, 8th Floor, Palacio del Gobernador, Intramuros, Manila.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SHEET FOR COMMERCIAL PROPAGATION PROPOSAL FOR THE COMMERCIAL PROPAGATION GA21 Corn Applicant’s Name Syngenta Philippines, Inc. Applicant’s Address 12th Floor, Two World Square, # 22 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, 1630 Philippines

Telephone Number/ Facsimile Number, E-Mail Address of the Applicant Tel. +63 2 370 2100; Fax: +63 2 856 9260; E-mail: c/o jet.parma@syngenta.com 4. Name of Responsible Officer/Authorized Representative Jet Marcial G. Parma, President and Commercial Unit Head, Philippines Ma. Emeru Bool - Rodriguez, Seeds and Traits Regulatory Manager, Philippines 5. Description of the Regulated Article for Direct Use GA21 corn is a genetically modified corn which has been developed through modern biotechnology via microprojectile bombardment of corn suspension culture cells. It expresses a mutated corn 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase enzyme (mEPSPS). EPSPS is a key enzyme in the shikimate pathway, involved in the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids and is naturally found in all plants, fungi, and bacteria but absent in animals. EPSPS is highly sensitive to herbicide products containing glyphosate. Corn plants transformed with the mepsps gene, such as those derived from GA21 corn, synthesize the mEPSPS protein that confers tolerance to herbicide products containing glyphosate. Therefore, corn plants transformed with the mepsps gene as expressed in the transgenic corn GA21 corn display tolerance to the herbicide glyphosate, whereas non-transgenic corn plants do not display a glyphosate-tolerant phenotype. 6. If to be imported, Country (ies) of Origin of the Regulated Article United States, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Paraguay, South Africa 7. Brief Summary of Potential Effects on Human and Animal Health and the Environment GA21 corn has been adequately assessed to demonstrate its safety as food, feed, and its safety to the environment. Studies conducted show that there are no indications that the mEPSPS protein in GA21 corn may be allergenic nor toxic. In addition, the mode of action of this protein is distinct. The mEPSPS produced by GA21 corn has low affinity for glyphosate compared to the native EPSPS, thus conferring tolerance to glyphosate in herbicide products. Furthermore, studies show that GA21 corn is nutritionally and compositionally similar to, and as safe and as nutritious as the conventional corn. Results of the multi-location field trials for two seasons across major corn growing areas of the Philippines showed that the GA21 corn was consistently tolerant to herbicide containing glyphosate. Also, GA21 corn does not affect non-target organisms. 8. Brief Summary of Potential Benefits GA21 corn was developed through modern biotechnology to tolerate glyphosate herbicide. GA21 corn offers benefits to the growers by providing a higher and better quality of harvest and a more economical way of controlling weeds because GA21 corn display the ability to withstand post-emergence applications of non-selective herbicide products containing glyphosate. Such herbicides provide excellent post-emergence broad-spectrum weed control. 9. Countries Where Approvals Have Been Granted GA21 corn has already been approved in Argentina (cultivation, feed, and food), Australia/ New Zealand (food), Brazil (cultivation, feed, and food), Belarus/Kazakhstan (food), Canada (cultivation, feed, and food), China (food, feed, and processing), Colombia (cultivation, feed, and food), European Union (food, feed, and processing), Indonesia (food), Japan (food, feed, and cultivation), Republic of Korea (food, feed, and environment), Malaysia (food, feed, and processing), Mexico (food, feed, and processing), Paraguay (cultivation, food, and feed), Philippines (food, feed, processing, cultivation), Russian Federation (food), Singapore (food, feed, and processing), South Africa (food, feed, processing, and cultivation), Taiwan, province of China (food and feed), Turkey (feed), United States (cultivation, feed, food and processing), Uruguay (cultivation, feed, and food), and Vietnam (environment, feed, and food). The public is hereby invited to submit their comments to the BPI Director (within 60 days from date of publication) on the Proposal for the Commercial Propagation of GA21 Corn. Director Bureau of Plant Industry San Andres, Malate, Manila E-Mail bpibiotechsecretariat@gmail.com

The Education and Information Department (EID) is directed to publish this Order in two (2) newspapers of general circulation immediately

Approved for Publication: _______________________________ MR. GEORGE Y. CULASTE OIC-Director Bureau of Plant Industry Date:

SO ORDERED. Given this 24th day of April 2019, at Manila, Philippines. FOR THE COMMISSION:

(MS-APR. 26, 2019)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Cebu teen slay case: suspect’s DNA on scissors THE DNA of Renato Llenes, the self-confessed suspect in the killing of a teenage girl in Cebu, matched with the samples found in the pair of scissors used in the crime. “The DNA exam conducted by the PNP crime lab on the pair of scissors reveals positive findings of presence of DNA of both victim Christine Lee Silawan and suspect Renato Llenes in the said scissors,” PNP spokesperson Col. Bernard Banac told reporters Wednesday. Last April 11, PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde lauded the police for the arrest of Llenes on April 9 along Bangkal Road, Barangay Bangkal, Lapu-Lapu City for carrying an unlicensed pistol despite the election gun ban. The police confiscated from Llenes a .45-caliber pistol and a magazine with six live ammunition. Albayalde said Llenes, who has a live-in-partner and five children, used a pair of scissors in stabbing Silawan and in scraping off her face. The suspect said he saw a “Momo challenge” way of killing and did it on the 16-year-old girl. Albayalde said Llenes executed an extrajudicial confession on the same day he was arrested and “voluntarily narrated his involvement in the killing of Silawan.” The PNP chief said the suspect did the confession because “he was haunted by his conscience.” Albayalde said Llenes introduced himself to Silawan on Facebook using a dummy account by the name “CJ Diaz” and sent her a friend request, which the victim accepted. Llenes admitted he has been addicted to drugs and that he was under its influence when he killed the victim. PNA

Manhunt for Acierto, 7 others in shabu case up THE Philippine National Police said Thursday it would hunt down dismissed Police Col. Eduardo Acierto and other personalities allegedly involved in the smuggling of illegal drugs concealed inside magnetic lifters last year. “Yesterday [Wednesday], we were able to secure the copies of the warrants of arrest, and we are now conducting manhunt operations,” PNP Chief, Gen. Oscar Albayalde told reporters in a press conference. “We have tracker teams created from the CIDG [Criminal Investigation and Detection Group],” he added. PNP spokesperson Col. Bernard Banac said it was up to the court to decide on where the suspects would be detained. Aside from Acierto, Judge Ma.

Bernardita Santos of the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 35 also issued arrest warrants for former Customs Intelligence Officer Jimmy Guban; former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Deputy Director for Administration Ismael Fajardo; Chan Yee Wah alias KC Chan; Zhou Quan alias Zhang Quan; consignees Vedasto Cabral Baraquel Jr.; Maria Lagrimas Catipan; and Emily Luquingan. Guban was already taken into custody by the National Bureau of Investigation last April 17. The arrest order, dated April 12, 2019, set no bail. Earlier, prosecutors led by Assistant State Prosecutor Mary Jane Sytat cleared 32 others in the drug smuggling charges for lack for evidence. PNA

Land valuation writ outlined By Rio N. Araja THE Department of Agrarian Reform has issued an administrative order on the creation of a document required to estimate the value of lands awarded to farmer-beneficiaries. Secretary John Castriciones issued DAR Administrative Order 4 outlining the procedures in the generation of such requirement, land distribution and information schedule that form part of the prerequisites of the land valuation process. The land distribution and information schedule reflects data for the computation of the amortization that agrarian reform beneficiaries should pay the government. The new order sets clear definitions and procedures for filing, monitoring and reporting of this vital information. Compensable lands awarded by the government shall be paid by the beneficiaries over a certain period of time as per Republic Act 6657 as amended, Presidential Decree 27, RA 3844, as amended by RA 6389. Meanwhile, Section 26 of RA 6657 as amended provides that “lands awarded pursuant to this act shall be paid for by the beneficiaries to the LandBank of the Philippines in 30 annual amortization at 6 percent interest per annum.”

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Sports

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Clippers stun Warriors; Rockets advance Kim, Bagtas pull off reversals, seal title duel KOREAN Kim Tae Soo and Leandro Bagtas toughened up in afternoon play and hacked out a pair of reversal over their top seeded rivals yesterday to arrange a showdown for the Philippine Amateur Open Match Play Championships crown at the Luisita Golf and Country Club in Tarlac. Kim, who placed 13th in the 16-player match play cast, built a two-hole cushion after nine holes then thwarted top ranked and last year’s champion Carl Corpus’ late charge to pound out a 2-1 triumph in their semiﬁnal clash. Bagtas, on the other hand, hit a clutch par on No. 15 to break an all-square duel with Sean Ramos then matched the second seeded bet’s bogey-par-par windup to snatch a 1-up victory in their side of the Last 4 face-off. They dispute the crown in an-

other grueling 36-hole ﬁnale today. Laurea Duque, meanwhile, kept her win run going, blasting Korean Kim Ga Yeon, 4&3, to move within a draw from claiming the girls’ crown under a novel round-robin format in the event sponsored by the MVP Sports Foundation and serving as part of the PLDT Group National Amateur Tour. Duque, who earlier thumped Kristine Fleetwood, 8&6, and Bang Hee Yeon, 4&3, then edged Laia Barro, 2&1, now has four points and will go for the clincher agaisnt second running Rianne Malixi, also today. Malixi, overall winner of the recent Philippine Junior Amateur Open, ripped Fleetwood, 6&4, to hike her total to three points, needing a win over Duque to steal the crown.

Estefano Rivera of the PMMS Tough Gear Racing Team makes his move in the 2019 Race Motorsports Club Phoenix Pulse Technology National Slalom Series second leg.

Rivera, Base 1-2 in Phoenix Pulse Technology Slalom tilt ESTEFANO Rivera of the PMMS Racing Team captured the title in the 2019 Race Motorsports Club Phoenix Pulse Technology National Slalom Series second leg. Rivera won the overall best time of the day and the front wheel top clocking after submitting 39.10 seconds, followed by his teammate Powee Base with 39.84. Coming in third was Jevoy Moreno of JAF Racing Team with 40.32, while Richard Gallardo placed fourth with 40.70. Douglas Maningding of Speedmode Racing Team (41.50) and Rod Chang of JAF Racing Team Bulacan (41.90) placed ﬁfth and sixth, respectively. Meanwhile, Joseph Ortega of Pongga Racing Team clinched the Rear Wheel Production Best time with 42.90. Chang also of brought home the novice best time of 42.06, followed by JC Alberto (42.24) and Dr. JP Polintan (42.54). The 2019 RACE Motorsports Club Phoenix Pulse Technology National Slalom Series with enhanced power and acceleration is also supported by Major Sponsors Federal Tyres, 3K Batteries and Robinsons Malls. It is also backed by Starbright Body Kits, Auto Transporter, media partners Stoplight TV, C! Magazine, Auto

Car Magazine Magazine, Power Wheels Magazine, Medical Team AEROMED and Walter Lights and Sounds. The slalom event also thanks organizers of the Hot Air Balloon and Lai de Leon for making the second leg a part of the weeklong festival. The event was participated in by Speedmode Racing Team, G Spot Racing Team, Auto force Racing Team, RODLEA Racing Team, Stage 1 Racing Team Nueva Ecija, PMMS Rennsport Racing Team, Pongga Racing Team, Melworks Bulacan, JAF Racing Team. The third leg will be held on April 28 at Robinsons Starmills in Pampanga, while the fourth leg is set on May 19 at the Robinsons Sta Rosa. The winners of the first leg will get their awards on April 28 The second Slalom Invitational will be on Aug. 11 at Robinsons Place Calasiao Pangasinan. For details, contact Bing Bang Dulce at 09178119337 or like the event’s Facebook page racemotorsportsclub. Some of the official results: Novice Stock Injected: 1st Raen Pangilinan 90.60 Novice Modified A: 1st Marvin Gadia 46.68; 2nd Martina Sophia Munoz 49.44; 3rd Christine Torres 50.32

PH riders try again in road race GAZALKENT, Uzbekistan—Having recovered from racing in adverse conditions, Marc Ryan Lago and Daniel Ven Cariño on Thursday tried to look prime to ride their bikes anew in what could be another day of extreme cold and rain in the 2019 at the Asian Cycling Championships. But young as they are—Lago is 18 and Cariño 21—they sounded apologetic for missing the podium in the individual time trial (ITT) of the road championships that lured entries from 31 countries, one of the biggest in the ACC, on Wednesday. “I gave everything I got, yet it wasn’t enough,” said Lago, who finished fifth among 13 entries in the Men Junior (18-under) ITT, his first international stint. Cariño, who has raced overseas at least thrice in his young career as member of 7-Eleven Roadbike Philippines and now Go For Gold continental teams, wound up 15th in the 18-cyclist race for athletes aged 22 or younger. “Like Marc, I tried to fight the cold, but it was too difficult to bear,” Cariño said. Lago raced at 1 p.m. (3 p.m. in Manila) and the temperature at the flat venue—in the middle of a long expressway unprotected by trees or mountains—was 11 degrees Centigrade. When it was Cariño’s turn to ride two hours later, the temperature dropped to 9 degrees.

AN FRANCISCO—Lou Williams exploded off the bench for 33 points as the Los Angeles Clippers upset the top-seeded Golden State Warriors 129-121 to keep their NBA playoff series alive on Wednesday.

Williams finished with four les on Friday. rebounds and 10 assists on The Warriors had earlier a night when the Clippers’ threatened to cut loose in a strength in depth thwarted a high-scoring first quarter, piling 45-point display from Kevin on 41 points. Durant to frustrate the Warriors But Clippers were able to exhopes of wrapping up a series ploit an uneven Warriors defenvictory. sive display to remain within Williams made 12 of 19 atstriking distance, restricting the tempts from the field while reigning NBA champions to a Montrezl Harrell delivered a four-point lead heading into the huge performance off the bench second quarter. as well, shooting 11-of-14 to The visitors outscored the finish with 24 points. Warriors 34-22 to take a 71-63 Williams Point guard Patrick Beverley half-time lead and from that had 14 rebounds as the Clippers pulled the se- point Golden State were chasing the game. ries back to 3-2 before game six in Los AngeMeanwhile, James Harden scored 26 points

as the Houston Rockets booked their place in the NBA playoff Western Conference semi-finals on Wednesday with a 100-93 victory over the Utah Jazz. Harden, the 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player, led the scoring as the Rockets overcame an improved Utah defensive effort to clinch a 4-1 series victory at Houston’s Toyota Center. The win means Houston face a potential blockbuster meeting with the Golden State Warriors in the next round. The Warriors lead their first round series against the Los Angeles Clippers 3-1. The Rockets had cruised to blowout victories in the opening two games of the series, winning by margins of 32 points and 20 points against an overwhelmed Jazz defense. However, with Utah fighting to stay in the series on Wednesday there was rarely much daylight between the two sides, with the first quarter ending level at 20-20. AFP

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor

sports@manilastandard.net

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

Filipina bucks extreme cold, conquers 78° North Marathon With a Philippine flag in her hands, Filipina triathlete Joyette Jopson crosses the finishing line of the 78° North Marathon.

Magnolia shoots for place in PBA finals By Jeric Lopez RED-HOT Magnolia shoots for a place in the finals yet again as it looks to finish off ailing Rain or Shine in their best-of-seven semifinal showdown in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup. Ahead 3-2 in the series, the Hotshots go for the closer and the jugular even as the Elasto Painters look to equalize in their Game 6 encounter at 7 p.m. today at the Ynares-Center in Antipolo City. Should Magnolia win and clinch a place in the big stage, it will be its second straight finals’ appearance after it won the Governors’ Cup last season and also its second finals’ stint in a row for the All-Filipino conference. Having racked up three wins in a row after a 0-2 start in the series, the Hotshots now have all the momentum and confidence to push more for another possible championship appearance. However, Magnolia coach Chito Victolero said emphatically that the job is far from done for the Hotshots. “It’s not an easy series. It’s a grinder and our mission isn’t done yet,” said Victolero. “We still have to close out and win this series.” Led by Mark Barroca, Magnolia’s balanced attack once again killed Rain or Shine’s hopes in Game 5 Wednesday night, 82-74. After Magnolia stepped on the gas pedal starting in Game 3, Rain or Shine was not able to retaliate. Still, it is not too late for the Painters as they can still force a deciding Game 7, which will be held on Sunday, if still necessary. Over at the other side of the fence, five-peat seeking San Miguel Beer, ahead 3-2, is likewise looking to book a return trip to the finals with a goal to finish off Phoenix in Game 5 as of press time.

PH athlete strikes gold in world Jiu-Jitsu meet By Peter Atencio

WENTY-EIGHTYEAR-OLD Annie Ramirez claimed her first gold at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship at the Mubadala Arena on Wednesday. The Filipino ﬁghter wept tears of joy after the referee’s verdict declared her the winner over American Sophia Dalpra. Ramirez was able to get past a 4-all deadlock in the female purple belt 55-kilogram ﬁnal.

An emotional Ramirez, lia as part of her ongoing in an online statement preparations for the 30th through The National of Southeast Asian Games, Abu Dhabi, said this was which the Philippines is her ﬁrst gold in four years hosting from Nov. 31 to in the World Pro. Dec. 10. She had seen action in “The gold in the World previous editions of the Pro is a good platform to Abu Dhabi World Profeswork on my next objecsional Jiu-Jitsu Championtives,” said Ramirez. shiptwice in the blue belt Ramirez has never division and last year in earned an international the purple. medal when she was still Ramirez noted that all dabbling in judo. three ﬁghts were very Ramirez But after switching to hard as she did not exjiu-jitsu, her luck turned pect it to be easy at her current level when she won golds in the Asian Beach of competition. Games in Thailand and Vietnam in 2014 Up next is a competition in Mongo- and 2016, respectively.

Last-hole birdie keeps Mondilla in share of lead STA. ROSA, Laguna—Clyde Mondilla holed out with a birdie then watched Kim Joo Hyung fumble with a missed green bogey for a big two-shot swing that put the Filipino ace back in joint lead with the young Korean in the third round of the P5 million The Country Club Invitational here yesterday. Kim, 16, bucked an opening hole mishap with a cluster of birdies to stun Mondilla and three-time champion Angelo Que with a 33 start but Mondilla rallied from three down with a strong finish at TCC’s tricky finishing holes, sparking his fightback with a birdie on No. 14 before drilling in a 10-footer on the difficult No. 18 to salvage a 70. Kim rebounded from a bogey on No. 11 with a birdie on the 16th to keep his spot on top but the Korean upstart, who became the youngest winner on the Philippine Golf Tour at Pueblo De Oro last year, failed to ride the pressure on the last hole, hitting it short on his approach shot. “That’s a good bogey,” said Kim, whose 70 kept him tied with Mondilla at even 216, virtually setting up a two-man duel for the top P1.5 million purse in this kickoff leg of the PGT’s milestone 10th season put up by ICTSI chairman Ricky Razon in 2003 to honor the memory of his father and ICTSI founder. “I played good, my irons, short game and putting were okay,” said Mondilla, seeking to make it two-in-row here at the Tom Weiskoph-designed layout after besting a crack international field in the Solaire Philippine Open three weeks ago. The Del Monte ace hit three birdies inside 15 feet against a lone bogey, missing eagle chances on the two par-5s. He hit a solid 3-iron second shot from 195 yards on No. 8 but misread a 10-footer then hacked a 3-wood second shot from

Clyde Mondilla reacts after flubbing a birdie putt on No. 3.

280 yards to within 15 feet on No. 14. Keanu Jahns turned in a rare backside 32 to save a 71 as he moved to solo third though four strokes behind the joint leaders at 220 for a spot in the championship ﬂight tipped to go down to the last shot or putt. Que, seeking a record fourth crown, turned in an impressive 35 but after three straight pars at the back, the power-hitting shotmaker wavered, bogeying three of the last six, including the last for a 74 and a 222, now six shots behind.

PHILRACOM HONORS AMB. BAGATSING. The

Philippine Racing Commission honored its former Commissioner Atty. Dondon Bagatsing (fifth from left) for his excellent services rendered to the commission. Bagatsing is leaving the Philiracom as he was recently appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to become the Philippine Ambassador to India. Shown with Amb. Bagatsing here are (from left) Commissioners Lyndon Guce, Wilfredo de Ungria and Bienvenido Niles Jr., Chairman Andrew A. Sanchez, Commissioners Dante Lantin and Victor Tantoco and Executive Director Andrew Rovie Buencamino.

FILIPINA runner Joyette Jopson overcame all odds and conquered the grueling 42-kilometer 78° North Marathon held near the North Pole last April 16. Jopson, a triathlete, 2014 Ironman 70.3 Philippines Filipino Elite Champion and FWD Financial Wealth Officer, became the very first Filipina to run a marathon in the freezing temperature of Longyearbyen, Svalbard—a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean. Jopson and the FWD Team Asia runners ran amid a ruggedly icy terrain and freezing temperature. She finished the race with an impressive time of 4 hours, 10 minutes, and 59 seconds— good for third overall and first in the women’s group.. The lone Philippine representative in the marathon, Jopson joined other FWD runners from Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand in the marathon sponsored by the global FWD group. Her participation, in turn, was sponsored by FWD Philippines, one of the fastest-growing insurance companies in the country. “The FWD Group had initially been supporting the world’s ‘coolest’ marathon at the North Pole, returning as title sponsor for the third year in a row,” said Peter Grimes, FWD Philippines President and CEO. “The Marathon was cancelled at the last minute because of geopolitical tensions between the Russian and Ukrainian administrations regarding flight plans to the Pole,” Grimes added. Undeterred, FWD stepped in with the idea to create and organize its own marathon at Longyearbyen, which they called the 78° North Marathon, so that runners could still fulfill their ambitions to complete a marathon in subzero temperatures and extreme winter conditions while raising funds for their sponsored charities. FWD successfully arranged the marathon against the odds in three hectic days, inviting all registered North Pole Marathon runners to take part.

PH team ready for Arafura Games ‘19 DARWIN, Australia—The 2019 Arafura Games formally opens today with 91 athletes set to represent the Philippines in the competition. Muay athlete Philip Delarmino, silver medalist in the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, will be the flag bearer for the country in the opening ceremony at the Darwin Waterfront. The delegation arrived last Wednesday after a four-hour trip via a Philippine Airlines chartered flight from Manila as the athletes will compete in nine out of the 17 sports that will be played in the biennial competition. The delegation was welcomed by consul general John Rivas and several Filipino working as volunteers for the Games which is making its return after an eightyear hiatus. Philippine Sports Commission national training director Marc Velasco, the deputy chef de mission of the Philippine contingent here, said the athletes are looking forward to the competition here in the Australian city located in the Northern Territory. “The delegation is upbeat,” Velasco said. “They are very excited. I think it’s an advantage that we went on a chartered flight kasi they got to see kung sino ‘yung ibang taga-Team Philippines. Last night, they were talking to each other which is a good sign that they will support each other.” Velasco added the chartered flight even allowed other teams to train hours after their arrival here. “We saw a few teams doing their training and practice. It’s good to see them that they have time to practice before the games at hindi sila ipit at pagod especially with the flight. I think we have a good chance to give a good performance in the Arafura Games,” Velasco said. Velasco also thanked the Filipino community who this early threw their support by giving away, meals, laundry powder, and other items for the use of the entire delegation. “The athletes feel their presence (Filipino community). They are very warm in giving support. The athletes are overwhelmed with the support na binigay dito,” Velasco said.

Business Dominguez III

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com FRIDAY, APRIL 26 2019

Planned euro bonds get ‘BBB’ rating By Julito G. Rada

LOBAL credit watchdog S&P Global Ratings said Thursday it granted an investment-grade, or “BBB” score, to the Philippine government’s planned euro bonds issuance this year.

“S&P today assigned its ‘BBB’ long-term foreign currency rating to the proposed benchmark-size eurodenominated senior unsecured notes to be issued by the Philippines [BBB/ Positive/A-2],” it said in a statement. It said the notes “represent direct, general, unconditional, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said in a message to reporters Thursday the details of the issuance such as the size, tenor and timeline would be disclosed once the Philippine finance team finalized them “after receiving investor feedback during roadshow.” National Treasurer Rosalia de Leon said Wednesday the government was planning a “benchmark” euro bonds issuance, meaning the offer size would be at least $500 million. Reports from capital markets publication Refinitiv IFR said the government already hired banks to arrange investor meetings in Europe for the planned bond issuance. Deutsche Bank and UBS were tapped as joint global coordinators and were Dominguez III bookrunners with BNP Paribas, Credit the sovereign and rank equally with Suisse and Standard Chartered. the sovereign’s other unsecured and The report further said investor unsubordinated debt obligations.” meetings would be conducted in key

cities in Europe such as Zurich in Switzerland, London in Great Britain, Paris in France, Frankfurt in Germany and Milan in Italy beginning April 26 to promote the issuance. The planned euro bonds’ issuance forms part of the government’s efforts to raise funds for the P3.7-trillion national budget this year. The government is also eyeing to raise $893.3 million or 6 billion yuan this year through Panda bonds in China. The Philippines successfully returned to the Samurai bond market in August 2018 with the issuance of a multitranche JPY154.2 billion ($1.39 billion) Samurai bonds. The Bureau of the Treasury said the offering marked “the return of the Republic to the Samurai market after an 8-year break and the ﬁrst time in almost 20 years that it has issued Samurai bonds on a stand-alone basis.”

IN BRIEF Arbitration ruling to revive gas sector

THE Petroleum Association of the Philippines said it expects the recent ruling of the International Chamber of Commerce in Singapore on the arbitration case filed by Shell Philippines Exploration B.V against the government on the Malampaya gas project’s corporate income tax issue to revitalize the oil and gas exploration industry. The Malampaya consortium received a favorable ruling from the ICC on the tax dispute that Shell Philippines Exploration B.V. filed against the government in 2015. Spex is the operator of the Malampaya gas project in northwest Palawan with a 45-percent stake. “The Malampaya joint venture can confirm that the International Chamber of Commerce arbitration tribunal has issued its decision, which we are currently reviewing with our legal counsels. At this stage, we cannot provide details due to the confidentiality of the proceedings, but the joint venture will be engaging the Department of Energy in due course,” Spex said. Other members of the consortium are Chevron Malampaya LLC, with a 45-percent stake and state-owned PNOC Exploration Corp. with the remaining 10 percent. “I have not seen the decision itself, although I have read and heard about it. I hope the government will react positively. This, of course, will be of great help to the exploration industry,” PAP chairman Rufino Bomasang said. Alena Mae S. Flores

Quake closes Petron refinery

OIL refiner Petron Corp. on Thursday assured the public it has ample inventory to supply the market during the shutdown of the 180,000-barrel-per-day refinery in Limay, Bataan that started on April 22 following the strong earthquake in Luzon. “We assure our customers that we have ample inventory to supply our domestic market requirements… Our refinery in Limay, Bataan was forced to go into an emergency shutdown following the strong earthquake that affected Central Luzon and Metro Manila on April 22,” Petron said in an advisory. Petron said the earthquake triggered the protective tripping of certain refinery units resulting in the emergency shutdown. This was followed by flaring of gases which is an important safety measure in refinery facilities due to the absence of an alternative power supply. The shutdown covering both emergency and maintenance will extend until the end of May. “At the time of the emergency shutdown, the refinery was preparing for a regular total plant turnaround beginning May 1 for scheduled maintenance activities. The turnaround will allow us to perform regular maintenance and repair for all process units, as well as assess any possible damage caused by the earthquake,” the company said. Alena Mae S. Flores

Australian firms watch tax reforms

AUSTRALIAN companies are monitoring the passage of the tax reform law in the Philippines to have a clearer understanding of their response to such business development, newly-designated Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven Robinson said Thursday. “Once they know how the legislation looks like, business will be able to make up its mind on how it deals with situations like that,” Robinson said at the sidelines of the general membership meeting of the Makati Business Club in Makati City. “They see an enormous opportunity here in the Philippines, not just because of what happened in the last few years, but the positive growth over 6 percent of the economy is really remarkable. That’s a phenomenal situation for any country to be in. It’s admirable where the Philippine economy is headed and we’d like to be a part of it,” he said. Robinson said a lot of Australian companies were keen on exploring investments in the Philippines. “Irrespective of how the political situation unfolds, I think more Australian companies are willing to invest here and continue to regard the Philippines as a prime investment country,” he said. Othel V. Campos

FREE INTERNET. Quezon City mayor Herbert Bautista (second from right) and Globe Telecom executives sign a landmark agreement to put up GoWiFi services for employees at Quezon City Hall. Signing the agreement with Bautista are (from left) Globe enterprise group director Robie Reyes, WiFi business group director Janis Nathalie Racpan and enterprise group vice president Marianne Quiambao.

SEC clears P15.5-b merger of Yuchengco, Ayala education units By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Securities and Exchange Commission approved the P15.5-billion merger of the education units of the Yuchengco and Ayala groups. Ayala Corp. said in a disclosure to the stock exchange the corporate regulator approved on April 24 the merger of unit AC Education Inc. and iPeople Inc. Documents showed that iPeople, a listed subsidiary of Yunchengco-led House of Investments, would be the surviving entity. AC Education owns and manages Apec Schools, the University of Nueva Caceres and the National Teachers College, while iPeople owns Malayan Education System Inc. that runs Mapua University as well as Malayan Colleges Laguna, Malayan Colleges Mindanao and Malayan Science High School. Upon SEC approval, iPeople will issue 295,329,976 common shares from its authorized and unissued capital stock in exchange for 1,993,477,338 AC Education shares. The Philippine Competition Commission, the country’s anti-trust body, cleared the merger in December 2018, saying the merger would not likely result in the substantial lessening of competition in the sector. Ayala Corp., AC Education, House of Investments and iPeople signed a deﬁnitive agreement in connection with the merger of their education units. After the merger, iPeople will be 51.3-percent owned by HI and 33.5-percent owned by Ayala Corp. The merger will bring together the seven educational institutions of iPeople and AC Education to offer quality education to students across all income segments, with campuses in Metro Manila, Calabarzon, the Bicol region and Mindanao. The merger will include iPeople and subsidiary Malayan Education System Inc. which is operating under the name of Mapua University and subsidiaries Malayan Colleges Laguna, the best board exam performing private higher education institution in Calabarzon, Malayan Colleges Mindanao in Davao City and Malayan Science High School in Manila. It will also include AC Education and subsidiaries the University of Nueva Caceres, one of the oldest and largest universities in Bicol, National Teachers College, the country’s pioneer private teachers’ training tertiary education institution and Apec Schools, the largest chain of private stand-alone high schools in the country.

BPI’s income rose 7.6% to P6.72b in Q1 BANK of the Philippine Islands, the third largest bank in terms of assets, said Thursday net income rose 7.6 percent in the first quarter to P6.72 billion from P6.25 billion a year ago on the strength of its core businesses. BPI said in a statement the firstquarter profit also increased 10.8 percent from the fourth quarter. Comprehensive income reached P8.51 billion. Total revenues climbed 23.5 percent in January to March to P22.78 billion, driven by the 28.8-percent year-on-year growth in net interest income to P16.05 billion. The increase in net interest income was a result of an 8.8-percent growth in average asset base and a 50-basispoint expansion in net interest margin to 3.39 percent, it said. “Yield on interest-earning assets improved by 109 basis points, partially offset by the increase in the cost of funds, owing to higher time deposit rates and an increase in other borrowings,” it said. Total loans reached P1.35 trillion as of March 31, 2019, reflecting a growth of 11.5 percent year-on-year, boosted by the strong growth in corporate loans, credit card loans and housing loans at 11.8 percent, 20.3 percent and 9.9 percent, respectively. Total deposits rose 1.3 percent to P1.61 trillion as of end-March. The bank’s casa (current account, savings account) ratio stood at 70.3 percent while the loan-to-deposit ratio was at 83.9 percent. Non-interest income grew 12.4 percent to P6.73 billion, led by increases in transaction-based service charges, credit card and rental businesses and income from assets sold. Operating expenses totaled P12.07 billion in the first quarter, up 23.8 percent year-on-year across all major categories and primarily in technology and premises, reflecting the impact of the bank’s continued investments in technology, digitalization and microfinance branch network. The cost-to-income ratio was 53 percent, slightly up from 52.8 percent in the first quarter of 2018. Provision for losses of P1.80 billion was 13.2 percent lower than the fourth quarter of 2018. Non-performing loan ratio settled at 1.85 percent. Total loss coverage, including allowances for contingent exposures, stood at 95.7 percent. Julito G. Rada

Business

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market up; Bloomberry leads gainers

HE stock market rose for the second straight day Thursday, lifted by blue chip issues and an initial assessment that the twin quakes that struck Central Luzon and Eastern Visayas will not make a signiﬁcant dent on the economy. The Philippine Stock Exchange Index advanced 47.46 points, or 0.6 percent, to 7,894.45 on a value turnover of P6.5 billion. Gainers edged losers, 96 to 92, with 57 issues unchanged. The government’s economic managers are awaiting the assessment on the damage left by the successive earth-

quakes this week to see if they could impact on economic growth, which was earlier predicted at 6 percent to 7 percent this year. But President Rodrigo Duterte expressed conﬁdence the Luzon quake in particular would not disrupt the local economy. Casino operator Bloomberry Resorts Corp. climbed 3.2 percent to P13, while major property developer Ayala Land Inc. gained 3.1 percent to P49.50. International Container Terminal Services Inc., the biggest port operator, rose 2.1 percent to P124, while SM Prime Holdings Inc. of the Sy Group added 2 percent to P40.80. The rest of Asian markets stuttered Thursday after New York equities retreated from record highs, with weak economic data around the world offsetting a forecast-beating earnings season. Shanghai was the main loser, ending down 2.4 percent on concerns the Chi-

nese government could ease up on a recent run of mini stimulus measures that have supported the economy and equities in recent months. Hong Kong fell 0.9 percent, Seoul dropped 0.5 percent and Singapore was off 0.2 percent, with Jakarta also lower. However, Tokyo edged up 0.5 percent, Taipei added 0.1 percent and Mumbai put on 0.3 percent. Sydney and Wellington were closed for a public holiday. While the mood on trading ﬂoors remains broadly positive after a blockbuster start to the year, there are lingering concerns that growth in most parts of the world is well off the pace of the United States. A dive in German business sentiment— the latest soft reading from the European Union–a growth forecast cut by the Bank of Canada and a drop in Australian inﬂation were enough to keep US traders from

building on Tuesday’s records. “Investors were dealt with another economic reality check as ﬁnancial data from Europe remains as sick as ever, this despite a chorus of global central banks stimulus,” said Stephen Innes at SPI Asset Management. “The weak EU economy is perhaps raising some doubts as investors spent most of the day in self-analysis mode while taking stock of their stocks.” There was further negativity in Asia, with South Korea on Thursday reporting its biggest quarterly contraction since late 2008. The 0.3 percent drop was also its ﬁrst negative since the last three months of 2017. The data comes after investors have been on a buying spree for much of the year, fueled by optimism that China and the US will hammer out a deal to end their trade war, as well as central bank dovishness. AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2019

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 81.5 1,901,340 2.17 9,000 134 2,058,430 1.3 180,000 26.8 111,900 18.94 50,100 11.58 143,400 4.74 190,000 0.59 2,000 1.41 2,000 780 170 0.5 2,157,000 76.85 2,432,760 0.99 182,000 13.46 45,100 21.95 100 52.75 125,890 178 1,720 121.8 70 58.95 2,570 26 500 181.2 349,640 60.7 1,720 1.13 41,000

155,243,140 19,530 275,719,018 234,000 2,965,195 948,768 1,656,744 894,110 1,180 2,820 133,150 1,085,440 185,139,245.50 176,350 607,070 2,195 6,639,169 308,455 7,830 151,567.50 13,000 62,924,510 104,655.50 46,330

-20,919,261.50 -10,947,139 144,525 890,052 -103,260.00 -4,690 -108,011,680.50 1,937,419 16,380 29,026,465 -40,166 -

36.45 15.88 0.83 1.4 0.238 1.9 15.18 27.75 16 45 68.4 1.95 5.35 5.72 10.48 15.76 8.89 7.39 1.56 21.65 78.6 29.1 2.5 11.28 12.5 1.73 301 50 3.62 10.2 22.35 14.5 22 377.2 0.192 6.1 1.22 4.4 6.31 1.38 11.8 44.55 5 4.79 1.65 2.15 1.24 12.2 113 6.84 0.129 0.96 142.5 2.5 1.35 1.15

INDUSTRIAL 38 2,119,800 16.16 249,400 0.85 2,010,000 1.4 110,000 0.242 170,000 1.9 8,080,000 15.18 175,000 28 58,800 16.3 1,200 45 1,200 70 350 1.95 167,000 5.85 7,700 5.99 16,500 10.6 5,681,400 15.96 336,200 9.4 1,305,200 7.39 3,913,800 1.56 26,000 21.8 786,500 79 265,660 29.9 277,800 2.5 18,832,000 11.3 1,020,300 12.64 269,700 1.77 223,000 303 906,290 50 54,620 3.62 23,000 10.58 15,100 22.75 1,079,600 14.9 5,246,500 22.05 645,700 385 186,240 0.202 510,000 6.1 33,700 1.25 733,000 4.4 96,000 6.32 1,793,600 1.44 22,351,000 12.08 126,900 45.2 93,300 5 97,600 4.8 274,000 1.74 3,000 2.15 26,000 1.29 98,000 12.34 560,700 115 252,750 6.96 147,200 0.129 220,000 0.99 774,000 143.6 807,600 2.5 613,000 1.37 5,287,000 1.17 570,000

79,359,150 4,012,544 1,702,670 154,000 40,550 15,492,360 2,674,782 1,686,545 19,404 54,000 24,231 325,800 44,720 97,996 60,595,404 5,346,806 12,054,627 28,931,016 41,240 17,150,725 21,247,491.50 8,101,040 48,658,310 11,552,494 3,390,090 391,570 274,904,516 2,731,000 83,650 154,286 24,590,105 78,185,438 14,251,240 71,181,314 98,530 206,050 907,570 433,020 11,387,277 31,673,580 1,521,462 4,246,615 491,200 1,315,190 5,170 56,430 123,420 6,974,672 28,945,354 1,016,785 28,380 764,060 116,045,212 1,532,880 7,282,360 659,340

38,139,985 -104,836.00 -3,828,500 -695,690 -302,865 -6,520 54,000 -4,784 -3,061,480 -98,332 3,878,629 -1,478,000 -3,266,925.00 -19,149,138.50 807,300 3,093,886 -3,564 -61,437,044 -21,871,960 -31,847,966 -750,125 16,493,736 229,540 -1,931,598 -593,570 553,840 -471,000 -35,224 -9,117,365 97,000 -30,759,491 1,437,500 -22,140.00 -

0.59 54 14.5 0.75 18.46 1.37 1.39 883 1,251 7.54 11.4 14.88 0.241 828.5 6.41 63.7 5.5 0.5 5.02 15.5 0.55 4.4 3.38 0.038 1.13 2.84 173.8 935.5 0.93 1.34 430 0.236 0.325

HOLDING FIRMS 0.6 9,388,000 54 1,299,830 14.82 6,762,700 0.77 904,000 18.48 22,200 1.39 3,501,000 1.4 414,000 885 254,930 1,251 10 7.56 359,200 11.52 3,846,300 14.92 1,219,200 0.25 40,000 852 516,500 6.41 14,900 65 1,743,150 5.5 5,500 0.52 11,000 5.02 289,500 16 1,888,300 0.58 5,000 4.44 23,351,000 3.39 6,000 0.04 5,700,000 1.13 2,000 2.86 1,043,000 175 256,830 950 183,520 0.94 1,251,000 1.34 21,000 434 190 0.241 210,000 0.335 2,830,000

5,602,450 70,734,549.50 99,356,454 683,040 414,462 4,862,580 579,590 225,800,370 12,510 2,716,836 44,309,948 18,227,490 9,810 441,944,095 95,559 112,753,678 30,250 5,680 1,460,804 29,783,940 2,840 103,662,610 20,310 221,000 2,260 2,993,240 44,953,206 173,739,845 1,182,180 28,140 84,310 49,610 932,550

-5,070 -37,402,525.50 -11,492,604 7,588 576,790 -81,113,920 -911,662 -27,469,982 1,950,090 -45,789,695 3,487,480 -941,338 -7,688,860 -36,965,330 0 -31,354,197 -23,086,185 -

31,064,506 747,810 61,436 437,810 451,110 901,647,970 700,790 8,172,570 14,263 4,016,540 4,130 7,310 1,746,570 6,139,780 16,589,325 137,550 12,237,040 1,809,410 201,848,961 4,705,950 9,800 10,425,400

-255,342 272,334,205 -29,370 1,188,640 -697,680 -456,140 372,300 6,945,185 435,580 -156,000 -16,128,126 13,200 358,030

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

BANK PH ISLANDS BDO LEASING BDO UNIBANK BRIGHT KINDLE CHINABANK COL FINANCIAL EAST WEST BANK FERRONOUX HLDG FIRST ABACUS IREMIT MANULIFE MEDCO HLDG METROBANK NTL REINSURANCE PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PHIL STOCK EXCH PHILTRUST PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK VANTAGE

82 2.17 134 1.3 26.2 18.94 11.64 4.69 0.59 1.41 795 0.5 75.9 0.97 13.46 21.95 53.5 182.1 110.2 58.95 26 178 61 1.13

82.8 2.17 134.2 1.3 26.95 18.96 11.64 4.77 0.59 1.41 795 0.52 76.85 1 13.7 21.95 53.5 182.1 121.8 59 26 181.2 61.3 1.13

81.25 2.17 133.8 1.3 26.15 18.92 11.46 4.51 0.59 1.41 780 0.495 75.55 0.95 13.46 21.95 52.5 178 110.2 58.95 26 176.1 60.7 1.13

ABOITIZ POWER AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS BASIC ENERGY CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CIRTEK HLDG CNTRL AZUCARERA CONCEPCION CONCRETE A CROWN ASIA DAVINCI CAPITAL DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP EMPERADOR EUROMED FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG GINEBRA GREENERGY HOLCIM INTEGRATED MICR IONICS JOLLIBEE LIBERTY FLOUR MABUHAY VINYL MACAY HLDG MANILA WATER MAXS GROUP MEGAWIDE MERALCO MG HLDG PANASONIC PEPSI COLA PETROENERGY PETRON PHINMA ENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL PRYCE CORP RFM CORP ROXAS AND CO ROXAS HLDG SFA SEMICON SHAKEYS PIZZA SMC FOODANDBEV SPC POWER SWIFT FOODS TKC METALS UNIV ROBINA VICTORIAS VITARICH VULCAN INDL

36.9 16.2 0.85 1.4 0.239 1.97 15.68 27.75 16 45 70 1.95 5.35 5.98 11 15.9 9.2 7.4 1.69 22.2 80.05 29.15 2.74 11.34 12.58 1.8 301 50 3.62 10.2 22.7 14.5 22.15 382 0.196 6.12 1.24 4.6 6.41 1.44 12 45.9 5.05 4.79 1.78 2.22 1.24 12.98 114.5 6.85 0.129 0.98 145.2 2.5 1.4 1.15

38 16.4 0.87 1.4 0.242 1.98 15.68 29 16.42 45 73.9 1.98 5.87 5.99 11 15.98 9.4 7.4 1.69 22.2 80.2 30 2.74 11.4 12.72 1.8 307.6 50 3.68 10.58 22.95 15.1 22.15 385 0.202 6.16 1.25 4.6 6.41 1.45 12.08 45.9 5.06 4.8 1.78 2.22 1.3 12.98 115 7.1 0.129 1.02 145.4 2.51 1.42 1.17

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP BHI HLDG COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT JOLLIVILLE HLDG LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV MJC INVESTMENTS PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA PRIME ORION SAN MIGUEL CORP SM INVESTMENTS SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP SYNERGY GRID WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.62 55.15 14.5 0.76 18.76 1.39 1.4 885 1,251 7.6 11.78 14.92 0.241 852 6.42 65.65 5.5 0.52 5.17 15.8 0.55 4.4 3.38 0.039 1.13 2.93 177.2 951.5 0.98 1.34 430 0.236 0.33

0.62 56.1 14.86 0.78 19 1.4 1.4 894 1,251 7.6 11.78 15.2 0.25 868.5 6.42 65.65 5.5 0.52 5.17 16 0.58 4.47 3.39 0.04 1.13 2.93 178 953 0.98 1.34 473 0.241 0.34

8990 HLDG A BROWN ANCHOR LAND ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL INFRADEV

13.94 0.77 11.2 1.99 0.79 48 2.45 4.3 6.33 0.51 0.82 0.91 0.24 10.82 25.85 0.495 1.52 1.29 5.6 0.335 0.49 1.75

14.7 0.78 11.2 2 0.8 49.5 2.47 4.38 6.5 0.52 0.83 0.92 0.242 11 26 0.495 1.54 1.32 5.6 0.34 0.49 1.75

13.94 0.75 10.02 1.99 0.77 47.95 2.43 4.3 6.33 0.5 0.82 0.91 0.237 10.6 25.4 0.49 1.52 1.29 5.56 0.33 0.49 1.64

VOLUME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

0.42 2.41 23.8 1.99 3.01 40 1.69 6.99 0.74 7.3

0.43 2.5 24.5 2.01 3.04 40.8 1.7 7.12 0.74 7.4

0.42 2.4 23.8 1.96 2.95 39.65 1.68 6.87 0.74 7.29

0.43 2.41 24.5 2 3.04 40.8 1.7 7.12 0.74 7.32

540,000 332,000 3,484,200 846,000 1,050,000 10,315,000 868,000 258,900 408,000 4,679,600

226,900 804,260 84,718,635 1,690,490 3,127,300 416,676,840 1,468,420 1,810,033 301,920 34,263,821

-243,000 16,999,790 435,990 94,400 59,334,605 -338,000 547,883 148,000 4,741,625

2GO GROUP ABS CBN APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL ASIAN TERMINALS BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY BOULEVARD HLDG CEBU AIR CENTRO ESCOLAR CHELSEA DFNN INC DISCOVERY WORLD EASYCALL GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA HARBOR STAR INTL CONTAINER IPEOPLE IPM HLDG ISLAND INFO ISM COMM JACKSTONES LBC EXPRESS LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA BULLETIN MANILA JOCKEY METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A MLA BRDCASTING NOW CORP PACIFIC ONLINE PAL HLDG PAXYS PH RESORTS GRP PHIL RACING PHIL SEVEN CORP PHILWEB PLDT PREMIUM LEISURE PRMIERE HORIZON PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL SBS PHIL CORP SSI GROUP STI HLDG TRANSPACIFIC BR TRAVELLERS WATERFRONT WILCON DEPOT

13 19.2 0.415 0.04 15.38 2.27 12.52 0.07 82.2 7.04 5.1 6.52 2.05 11.9 1,790 5.19 409 2.83 121.4 11.02 7.05 0.126 4.9 2.97 15.16 3.82 0.83 21.6 0.62 4.75 3.47 1.69 15.1 2.39 4.31 10.4 3.11 3.9 8.15 115.5 3.05 1,237 0.76 0.96 43.35 78.3 9.04 2.7 0.68 0.37 5.62 0.67 17

13.02 19.2 0.42 0.04 15.48 2.7 13 0.071 82.3 7.04 5.29 6.95 2.05 14.26 1,837 5.19 430 2.88 125 11.02 7.05 0.129 5.11 3.04 15.16 3.82 0.87 21.8 0.62 4.75 3.48 1.89 15.1 2.39 4.31 10.4 3.11 4.18 8.15 116 3.14 1,237 0.76 0.98 44 78.3 9.04 2.74 0.68 0.375 5.63 0.68 17.04

12.6 19 0.41 0.04 15.38 2.27 12.52 0.07 81 7.03 5.09 6.52 2.05 11.2 1,755 5.1 408 2.83 121.4 11.02 7.05 0.125 4.8 2.96 15.16 3.72 0.8 21.6 0.58 4.75 3.44 1.68 15.08 2.3 4.25 10 3.11 3.9 8.15 115.5 3 1,202 0.73 0.93 43.25 76.75 8.81 2.68 0.67 0.365 5.62 0.66 16.5

SERVICES 13 19.04 0.42 0.04 15.48 2.55 13 0.07 81.2 7.03 5.29 6.95 2.05 13.5 1,780 5.13 408 2.84 124 11.02 7.05 0.126 5.11 3.04 15.16 3.75 0.83 21.7 0.6 4.75 3.45 1.84 15.08 2.33 4.27 10 3.11 4.18 8.15 116 3.04 1,234 0.74 0.96 44 78.3 9.04 2.7 0.68 0.37 5.63 0.67 16.8

48,900 95,800 150,000 4,700,000 3,000 2,525,000 9,408,200 7,990,000 88,870 2,000 2,360,300 28,000 1,000 2,083,000 53,280 337,800 2,790 484,000 3,219,290 6,500 6,000 1,760,000 2,627,000 30,000 300 806,000 1,498,000 739,800 685,000 3,000 4,101,000 164,000 1,000 1,700,000 11,000 5,900 15,000 89,000 200 1,300 1,654,000 99,875 2,541,000 46,727,000 3,794,900 97,890 10,500 6,812,000 1,160,000 2,060,000 86,700 1,319,000 858,500

629,262 1,823,484 62,350 188,000 46,290 6,401,780 120,634,382 560,860 7,262,670 14,071 12,212,391 191,670 2,050 28,010,848 94,930,560 1,730,949 1,150,408 1,379,720 398,531,417 71,630 42,300 222,180 12,967,530 89,170 4,548 3,024,560 1,218,890 16,054,630 407,020 14,250 14,155,060 297,900 15,092 3,981,780 47,210 59,820 46,650 361,340 1,630 150,650 5,065,430 122,224,560 1,882,240 44,608,970 166,508,285 7,618,293.50 94,258 18,419,950 781,830 759,700 487,552 878,830 14,333,438

-20,110.00 23,959,054 16,100 -105,723.50 -2,826,380 -30,272 23,716,855 20,400 142,500 83,345,697 -1,156,390 -1,598,250 82,000 3,332,575 583,370 -7,000 -60 -1,155 -191,700 7,298,800 73,380 82,160 -22,433,055 -3,022,072.50 -37,023 6,317,610 -190,710 -96,153 3,655,102

ABRA MINING APEX MINING ATLAS MINING ATOK BENGUET A BENGUET B CENTURY PEAK COAL ASIA HLDG DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE LEPANTO A LEPANTO B MANILA MINING A MANILA MINING B MARCVENTURES NICKEL ASIA NIHAO ORNTL PENINSULA ORNTL PETROL A PHILODRILL PHINMA PETRO PX MINING PXP ENERGY SEMIRARA MINING

0.002 1.39 2.9 12.4 1.29 1.55 2.71 0.29 8.08 1.5 0.255 0.115 0.113 0.0089 0.0086 1.06 2.46 1.01 0.92 0.012 0.011 3.11 3.19 9.41 23.7

0.002 1.4 2.9 12.78 1.57 1.55 2.72 0.29 8.1 1.52 0.255 0.115 0.113 0.009 0.009 1.09 2.49 1.01 0.92 0.013 0.012 3.11 3.19 9.8 23.95

0.002 1.35 2.8 11.34 1.29 1.21 2.7 0.29 7.99 1.48 0.247 0.113 0.113 0.0087 0.0085 1.05 2.44 0.98 0.9 0.012 0.011 3.1 3.15 8.53 23.5

MINING & OIL 0.002 152,000,000 1.38 1,722,000 2.89 182,000 12.08 35,300 1.57 8,000 1.21 16,000 2.72 381,000 0.29 500,000 8.01 6,400 1.52 10,954,000 0.255 620,000 0.113 560,000 0.113 10,000 0.0087 3,000,000 0.0086 6,000,000 1.09 80,000 2.47 933,000 1.01 55,000 0.92 238,000 0.012 8,300,000 0.012 100,100,000 3.1 9,000 3.15 366,000 8.57 19,632,700 23.7 627,700

304,000 2,354,860 513,860 435,482 12,280 21,730 1,031,400 145,000 51,280 16,491,260 154,800 63,570 1,130 26,600 52,400 85,110 2,307,900 54,220 218,940 99,700 1,201,100 27,950 1,158,200 182,927,943 14,883,505

32,520 -286,630 123,802 -537,330 2,126,230 33,200 12,400 4,194,168 7,253,665

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B2 DD PREF FGEN PREF G GMA HLDG PDR HOUSE PREF A LR PREF MWIDE PREF PNX PREF 3A PNX PREF 3B SFI PREF SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2H

18.5 497 96.1 103 5.12 95.9 1.01 100.1 100 105 1.45 975 75 76.9 72.5 72.55 73 73.65

18.5 497 97.9 104 5.12 95.9 1.01 102.9 100 105 1.45 975 75 76.9 72.5 72.55 73 73.7

18.06 497 96.1 103 5.01 95.9 1.01 100.1 100 105 1.45 975 75 76.05 72.5 72.55 73 73.65

PREFERRED 18.08 14,300 497 70 97 2,710 104 54,660 5.01 2,000 95.9 200 1.01 221,000 102.9 1,010 100 30,000 105 500 1.45 10,000 975 1,070 75 4,480 76.05 9,030 72.5 10 72.55 44,800 73 4,010 73.65 26,930

258,710 34,790 264,386 5,684,530 10,108 19,180 223,210 103,901 3,000,000 52,500 14,500 1,043,250 336,000 690,327 725 3,250,240 292,730 1,984,450.50

5,846.00 -

LR WARRANT

1.98

1.91

WARRANTS 1.91 59,000

114,540

ITALPINAS XURPAS

5.05 1.13

5.4 1.18

5.02 1.12

5.3 1.17

12,660,255 5,614,040

644,394 -255,200

FIRST METRO ETF

117.5

117.2

1,623,833

NAME

PROPERTY 14.5 0.77 11.18 1.99 0.77 49.5 2.44 4.35 6.5 0.51 0.83 0.92 0.237 10.76 25.7 0.49 1.53 1.3 5.59 0.335 0.49 1.66

2,178,600 985,000 6,000 220,000 576,000 18,473,500 286,000 1,886,000 2,200 7,892,000 5,000 8,000 7,290,000 574,700 645,200 280,000 8,042,000 1,388,000 36,098,000 14,140,000 20,000 6,173,000

TRADING SUMMARY

FINANCIAL

9,988,851

INDUSTRIAL

95,581,454

HOLDING FIRMS

75,508,320

PROPERTY

132,179,331

SERVICES

115,631,199

MINING & OIL

307,784,273

GRAND TOTAL

743,972,835

SME

2,414,100 4,869,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 117.5 13,830

VALUE 1,740.73 (up) 9.14 695,042,003.38 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 11,445.20 (down) 13.38 1,145,706,827.15 HOLDING FIRMS 7,554.35 (down) 31.75 1,452,510,674.48 PROPERTY 4,321.29 (up) 91.73 SERVICES 1,587.31 (up) 9.88 1,851,755,175.58 MINING & OIL 7,818.96 (down) 52.00 1,143,514,503.36 PSEI 7,894.45 (up) 47.46 224,648,299.2422 All Shares Index 4,867.66 (up) 21.61 6,533,079,071.04 Gainers: 96; Losers: 92; Unchanged: 57; Total: 245

ABS-CBN earmarks P6b for ‘19 capital expenditures By Darwin G. Amojelar ABS-CBN Corp. said it allotted P6 billion to fund capital expenditures this year that include its digital transformation, broadband business expansion and program rights acquisition. “If you look at our investments in the past, our capex is about 6 billion... this year is about the same. Capex allotted for digital will be higher this 2019,” said ABS-CBN chief financial officer Aldrin Cerrado. “If you notice, there was a softening of TV advertising in the last two years although there was some improvements in the first quarter of the year, especially with the election season, but even without election, we want our business to grow not just on advertising but on consumer,” he said. Cerrado added “most of the consumers of the Philippines have migrated from analog to digital and big digital companies are the one generating advertising revenues, while in the Philippines that may not be true yet, we want to be in the position.” The company earlier reported a net income of P1.9 billion last year, down 40 percent from P3.16 billion in 2017, due to weak advertising sales. Advertising revenues decreased 3.4 percent to P20.38 billion from P21.09 billion in 2017 on fewer advertising placements. Consumer sales rose just 0.8 percent to P19.74 billion from P19.60 billion, mainly resulting from a 26-percent increase in ABS-CBN TVPlus boxes sold year-on-year. Direct costs and expenses amounted to P37.94 billion in 2018, higher by 4.7 percent from P36.57 billion in 2017. Production cost increased 4.3 percent to P12.34 billion in 2018 from P11.83 billion in 2017. Global’s cable subscription revenues declined 7 percent. ABS-CBN TVPlus contributed significant increase in revenues for the entire year with 2.5 million boxes sold, up 26.3 percent or 529,000 additional boxes sold in comparison to 2017. Sky Cable’s revenue decreased 2.1 percent. The decline in Sky Cable’s performance was triggered by the drop in cable subscriber count by 69,000. The subscriber count of Sky increased by 489,000, significantly attributable to direct-to-home subscribers.

Arthaland eyes P1b from sale of preferred shares By Jenniffer B. Austria BOUTIQUE property developer Arthaland Corp. plans to raise P1 billion from the issuance of preferred shares. Arthaland said in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission it would offer 10 million preferred shares at a price of P100 apiece. The preferred shares to be issued will be the second and last tranche from the company’s P3 billion shelf registration filed with the SEC in 2016. The company tapped BDO Capital and Investments Corp. as sole issue manager and book runner for the fund raising activity. Arthaland plans to use the net proceeds from the offering to fund two residential projects, one in Cebu and another one in Makati. Arthaland said it was in talks with the owner of prime property inside the foremost business district of Cebu City to jointly develop a 2,000 square-meter lot into a premier residential condominium project. To fund the company’s estimated share in the Cebu residential project, Arthaland is allocating P300 million from the proceeds of the offering set to be disbursed in the second half of the year. The property firm is also in discussions to acquire a 1,800-sq. m property in the Makati central business district. The property will be developed into a high-end residential condominium with 29,000 sq. m. of gross floor area. Arthaland is allocating P530 million from the proceeds of the fund raising activity for the Makati project, with disbursement either in the last quarter of 2019 or the first quarter of 2020. The company is earmarking P154 million for general corporate purposes, which may include funding working capital requirements, future acquisitions of property or the retention of retail or commercial units to increase recurring lease revenues.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

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FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

A deadly price for political infighting

OLOMBO―Crucial intelligence that could have prevented Sri Lanka’s Easter attacks went ignored in part because of the feuding between the country’s leaders, experts say. The government has admitted “major” lapses in its failure to act on intelligence warnings, and analysts say a longstanding political crisis is to blame. The warnings were clear: On April 11, Sri Lanka’s police chief issued an alert saying that radical Islamist group National Thowheeth Jama’ath (NTJ) planned suicide bombings of “prominent churches”, citing alerts from a foreign intelligence agency. The document was addressed to several top ofﬁcials, but neither the prime minister nor the deputy defense minister were among the recipients.

That comes as a little surprise to the experts familiar with Sri Lanka’s messy political scene, which has been dominated by the wrangling between Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and President Maithripala Sirisena. Sirisena also serves as defence and law and order minister. “As part of his ongoing war with the prime minister, the president has tried to weaken him in many ways, including taking the police under his control,” said Alan Keenan, Sri Lanka specialist at the International Crisis Group think tank. “So it’s entirely possible that the police wouldn’t share information with ministers not aligned with the president,” Keenan told AFP. The attempt to shut out Wickremesinghe follows efforts by Sirisena to sack the premier last year. Although the prime minister was eventually reinstated after a court ruling, the bad blood between the two men persists. Hours after the Easter Sunday bombings that

Churches stop services because of security fears Manila

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COLOMBO―Sri Lanka’s Catholic churches suspended all public services over security fears on Thursday, as thousands of troops joined the hunt for the suspects in deadly Easter bombings that killed nearly 360 people. Security forces also made fresh arrests overnight over the attacks, as the government faced pressure over its failure to act on intelligence warnings about possible bombings. Recriminations have flown since the suicide bombers blew themselves up in luxury hotels and churches packed with Easter worshipers on Sunday. The president has asked the police chief and top defense ministry bureaucrat to step down, though neither has done so yet. Overnight, security forces using newly granted powers under the country’s state of emergency arrested 16 more suspects in connection with the attacks. Police have so far arrested 75 people but tensions remain high with several suspects unaccounted for. A senior Catholic priest told AFP that all public services were being suspended and all churches closed “on the advice of security forces”. Private services for burials will still be carried out, but no public masses are scheduled. Brigadier Sumith Atapattu said the army had increased its deployment by 1,300 to 6,300 overnight, with the navy and air force also deploying 2,000 more personnel. Authorities also announced a ban on drone flights and suspended licenses issued to commercial operators with immediate effect.The government has been on the defensive over revelations that specific warnings about an attack went ignored. Sri Lanka’s police chief warned on April 11 that suicide bombings against “prominent churches” by the local Islamist group National Thowheeth Jama’ath were possible, citing information from a foreign intelligence agency. AFP

Biden is finally expected to enter presidential race WASHINGTON―After months plans told US media that afof reflection, Joe Biden was set ter launching on Thursday, he to launch his US presidential will head to Pittsburgh, in the bid Thursday, positioning the swing state of Pennsylvania veteran Democrat as a front run- that Trump won in 2016, to adner among the many candidates dress a labor union gathering seeking to challenge Donald Monday, in his first public appearance after throwing his hat Trump in 2020. The party’s 76-year-old senior in the ring. The record number of canstatesman, whose announcement was expected to arrive via on- didates means Biden faces a line video post, would become field of unprecedented diverthe most experienced and rec- sity as he makes his third run ognized Democrat in the race, for president, following two a popular former vice president unsuccessful attempts in 1988 dominating early polls follow- and 2008. After the death of his son Beau ing months―even years―of from cancer, Biden passed on a campaign planning. Biden, whose working-class presidential campaign in 2016. As he let the suspense over appeal remains intact despite nearly half a century in Wash- his political plans drag out for ington politics, is seen as a months this year, his broad lead comforting, known quantity has been whittled, with newer for American voters who will and notably young faces gainbe vetting some 20 Democrats ing ground including moderate now officially in the presidential South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg, who at 37 is less than field. But recent controversy over half Biden’s age. AFP his tactile style, parManila ticularly with women, SBS PHILIPPINES CORPORATION could dampen a roll- Standard TODAY NOTICE out that he envisioned would like to inform all stockholders of record as of April 10, 2019 of SBS as the final main entry We Philippines Corporation(the “Company”) that in relation to the Company’s Annual Stockholders’ Meeting(the “Meeting”) scheduled on May 22, 2019, the 1st quarter to the Democratic pri- Unaudited Interim Financial Statements and Management’sDiscussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation for the period ended mary battle. March 31, 2019 will be made available to its stockholders at least five (5) calendar before holding the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting and that such reports Biden aides re- days can be viewed at the company’s official website (www.sbsph.com). Hard statements and management discussion will be available upon request. mained tight-lipped this week about the Please be guided accordingly. early campaign. (SGD) GERRY D. TAN But people familiar PRESIDENT with the Democrat’s 10 Resthaven Street, San Francisco Del Monte,Quezon City (MS-APR. 26, 2019)

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NOTICE

Please be informed that the Interim Unaudited Financial Statements with the Management Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, or SEC Form 17-Q, as of 31 March 2019, of CONCRETE AGGREGATES CORPORATION will be available on the Company’s website by 16 May 2019. Upon written request, the Company’s stockholders shall be furnished copies of the said SEC Form 17-Q during the 23 May 2019Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, free of charge.

Compensable kVARh = Actual kVARh – Base kVARh Where:

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE ANCILLARY SERVICES PROCUREMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES AND SN ABOITIZ POWER-BENGUET, INC., (FOR BINGA) WITH PRAYER FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

Actual kVAR = actual reactive power provided within each interval Base kVARh = corresponding kVARh at 0.85 power factor lagging or 0.9 power factor leading, for the unit’s MW loading. For clarity, the MW loading is the unit’s Pmin, or RTD schedule, whichever is greater. 14. Applicants submit that the rates represent a reasonable recovery of its opportunity cost in making available generation capacity to provide the procured AS.

ERC CASE NO. 2019-015 RC NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES (NGCP) AND SN ABOITIZ POWER-BENGUET, INC. (SNAP-BI), Applicants. x---------------------------------------------------x

15. The rates under ASPA was subjected to a simulation by NGCP, the results of which are as follows:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

SNAP-Benguet (Binga)

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

Undervoltage Condition

Notice is hereby given that on 22 February 2019, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, Inc. (SNAP-BI) filed an Application dated 11 February 2019, seeking the Commission’s approval of their Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (ASPA), with prayer for the issuance of provisional authority.

SNAP-Benguet (Binga)

This Application is for the approval of the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (“ASPA”) between the NGCP and SNAP-BI dated 14 January 2019, pursuant to the Decision dated 3 October 2007 in ERC Case No. 2006-049RC entitled: “In the Matter of the Application for the Approval of Ancillary Services – Cost Recovery Mechanism (AS-CRM) of the Ancillary Services Procurement Plan, with Prayer for Provisional Authority.”

AS as defined in Section 4(b) of the EPlRA “refer to those services that are necessary to support the transmission of capacity and energy from resources to loads while maintaining reliable operation of the transmission system in accordance with good utility practice and the Grid Code to be adopted in accordance with this Act.” These services are essential in ensuring reliability in the operation of the transmission system and consequently, in the reliability of the electricity supply in the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao grids.

It may be recalled that on 31 January 2017, the Applicants entered into an ASPA (2017 ASPA) for a period of 5 years for the procurement of RR, CR, DR and BSS. On 03 March 2017, the Applicants filed the Application docketed as ERC Case No. 2017-016RC before the Honorable Commission for the approval of the 2017 ASPA, which was provisionally approved through an Order dated 16 May 2017.

10. To further support NGCP in maintaining power quality and the reliability of the Luzon Grid, SNAP-BI offered to provide RPS. Thus, on 14 January 2019, the Applicants entered into a new ASPA for RPS on a non-firm contracted capacity basis.

19. It is a declared policy of the State to ensure the quality, reliability, security and affordability of the supply of electric power (Section 2(b), EPlRA). To this end, there is a need to comply with the system requirements for AS to ensure grid system security and reliability. As mentioned above, NGCP has the mandate to procure the required AS. 20. RPS is one of the ancillary services provided in the PGC that is essential in maintaining power quality and the reliability of the grids5. SNAP-BI having offered to provide its RPS, will significantly help maintain the required power quality and voltage level in North Luzon. The Generation Facility is strategically located in North Luzon, thus, its provision for RPS will definitely enable NGCP to comply with its mandate.6 21. Thus, NGCP and SNAP-BI agreed to execute another ASPA for a period of five years to provide RPS. 22. In support of these allegations, NGCP submits a copy of the Judicial Affidavit of Engr. Lisaflor Bacani-Kater of the Revenue and Regulatory Affairs Department of NGCP, which is attached hereto as Annex “K”. PRAYER WHEREFORE, premises considered, Applicants respectfully pray that the Honorable Commission:

NON-FIRM CONTRACTED CAPACITY RATE AND IMPACT SIMULATION

Note: This is in addition to the other Ancillary Service types provided under the Schedule 1 of ASPA entered into by SNAP-B and NGCP on 31 January 2017 with ERC Case No. 2017-016 RC. 13. The Applicable Rates for the the incidental kVARh covered by the ASPA as provided in Schedule 3 are as follows: Real Time Incidental kVARh Utilization while Providing Contingency or Dispatchable Reserves. This shall be paid based on the total recorded kVARh delivered/absorbed beyond 0.85 power factor lagging or 0.9 power factor leading from the time when the dispatch of RPS was instructed. The compensable kVARh shall be paid at:

SGD: JOSE ANTONIO V. EVANGELISTA III Corporate Secretary

APPROVE, after notice and hearing, the subject ASPA.

The petitioner’s name and address;

The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

A statement of the relief desired.

All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicants rest their case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1)

The name and address of such person;

A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and

The grounds relied upon. (This space is intentionally left blank)

All such persons who wish to have a copy of the Application may request from CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Applicants that they be furnished with the same, prior to the date of the initial hearing. Applicants are hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the standard office hours. WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO AGNES VST DEVANADERA and the Honorable Commissioners CATHERINE P. MACEDA and PAUL CHRISTIAN M. CERVANTES, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 12th day of March 2019 in Pasig City. JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRIT Oversight Commissioner for Legal Service 1 2 4

Incidental kVAR Rate: Php 4.00/ kVARh

All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following:

Non-Firm Contracted Capacity

Available capacity of Reactive Power outside the range of 85% lagging and 90% leading power factor, as provided in Schedule 6.

Immediately ISSUE a provisional authority to implement the subject ASPA executed on 14 January 2019; and

Applicants pray for other just and equitable relief.

12. Under Clause 3 of the ASPA, SNAP-BI shall provide NGCP with the following AS as specified in Schedule 1 of the ASPA, follows:

Reactive Power Support (RPS)

The Commission has set the Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, pre-trial conference, and evidentiary hearing on 29 May 2019 (Wednesday) at two o’clock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.) at Azalea Residences, 7 Leonard Wood Road, Baguio City.

A copy of the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement between NGCP and SNAP-BI dated 14 January 2019 is hereto attached as Annex “A”. 11. During the period of negotiation, NGCP has certified that the units of the Generation Facility to have met and complied with the Standard Ancillary Services Technical Requirements of the ASPP as capable of providing RPS. A copy of NGCP Accreditation Certificate No. 2018-L018 dated 01 September 2018 is hereto attached as Annex “B.”

“H” “I”

ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

In order to implement and regulate the procurement of AS, the Honorable Commission approved the Ancillary Services Procurement Plan (“ASPP”) through its Order dated 9 March 2006 in ERC Case No. 2002-253 and the Ancillary Services-Cost Recovery Mechanism (“AS-CRM”) through its Decision dated 3 October 2007 in ERC Case No. 2006-049RC. Pursuant to its mandate, NGCP on different dates published in newspapers of general circulation a Notice of Invitation for Prospective Ancillary Services Providers, inviting all grid-connected merchant plants and independent power producers to participate in the provision of ancillary services.

Annex “D” “E” “F” “G”

While SNAP-BI is a co-applicant, it manifests that the instant Application shall neither modify, diminish or constitute a waiver of SNAP-BI’s rights nor expand its obligations and responsibilities as a generation company under EPlRA.

0.0014

Document Certificate of Compliance Summary of Existing Power Supply Agreement Articles of Incorporation Latest Security Exchange Commission – General Information Sheet Latest Audited Financial Statement WESM Registration

Applicant SNAP-BI is a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines with principal place of business at Binga Hydroelectric Power Plant, Brgy. Tinongdan, Itogon, Benguet. It may be served with orders, notices, and other legal processes through its undersigned counsel. It is the owner and operator of the Binga Hydro-Electric Power Plant (“Generation Facility”) located at the same address, which was certified and accredited by NGCP to be capable of providing Ancillary Services (“AS”) in the forms Regulating Reserve (“RR”), Contingency Reserve (“CR”), Dispatchable Reserve (“DR”) Black Start Service (“BSS”) and Reactive Power Support (“RPS”).

0.6691

18. SNAP-BI, as a generation company, falls within the ambit of Section 6 of the EPlRA. Attached are copies of relevant documents proving SNAP-BI’s due registration as a generation company, relevant permits to operate the Generation Facility and audited. financial statements, as follows:

ANTECEDENT FACTS 4.

Cost, PhP Mn 43.08

0.0004

Indicative Rate Impact PhP/kWPhP/kWh month equivalent

17. The ASPA shall be effective for a period of five (5) years, to commence immediately upon the effectivity of the provisional approval, or in the absence thereof, the final approval of the instant Application. In the event that the provisional or final approval, as the case may be, does not state a particular date of effectivity, the Agreement shall be effective on the date agreed upon by the Parties.

THE PARTIES

0.1850

16. Consistent with the AS-CRM, all the related and incidental expenses which NGCP will incur as a result of the procurement and operation of the ancillary services shall be recovered from all the load customers in the Luzon.

NATURE OF THE CASE

7.68

PhP/kWmonth

A copy of the Rate Impact Simulation is hereto attached as Annex “C”.

The pertinent provisions of the said Application are hereunder quoted as follows:

Indicative Rate Impact PhP/kWh equivalent

Cost, PhP Mn

Overvoltage Condition

(MS-APR. 26, 2019)

“The leaders are there to protect the people and that they have failed to do and... (people) have paid with their lives. This is criminal negligence.” But bickering alone does not explain why Sri Lanka’s security apparatus―populated by officers with years of experience fighting a decades-long Tamil insurgency―ignored warnings of an attack. Political commentator Kusal Perera said the police were familiar with the NTJ and its potential to carry out attacks, referring to a raid in January at a training camp that turned up explosives and detonators. “Is it only their responsibility to collect intelligence, not question suspects? During the civil war they never waited for the president and prime minister to instruct them before rounding up suspects and interrogating people,” Perera said. “Agencies responsible for maintaining law and order should not sit back and relax and wait for instructions after finding evidence of possible attacks,” he said. AFP CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

killed 359 people, Wickremesinghe called an urgent meeting of the armed forces chiefs. But Sirisena was still out of the country on holiday and the military leadership initially refused to attend, saying they answered solely to the president, ofﬁcial sources told AFP. They only agreed to the request after Wickremesinghe turned up at their headquarters in the defence ministry, the sources added. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, head of the Colombo-based Centre for Policy Alternatives, said the political inﬁghting meant security concerns had been relegated to the backburner. “The national security council has not met with the participation of the prime minister and the deputy minister of defence for four months,” he told AFP. “What on earth were the two of them doing?” he said, accusing both the president and prime minister of allowing personal animosity to overshadow security concerns.

5 6

An Act Granting the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines a Franchise To Engage in the Business of Conveying or Transmitting Electricity Through High Voltage Back-Bone System of Interconnected Transmission Lines, Substations and Related Facilities, and for other Purposes; Section 9 (c); Section 9 (d); Section 6.3.1.2; Section 1.6, PGC; and A copy of the List of Ancillary Services Providers in Luzon Certified with Reactive Power Support is attached as Annex “J”. (MS-APR. 12 & 19, 2019)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

LGUs

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

QC dads: Fair market value rates unchanged By Rio N. Araja THE 37-member Quezon City Council on Thursday told property owners there is no truth to rumors that the fair market value rates of real estate properties in the city would be raised this year. “The Quezon City Council had recently been informed that property owners in the city received letters from the City Assessor’s Office saying that adjustments in the fair market values will take into effect in January 2019,” the council said in a statement. “We would like to clarify that there is no truth to these announcements as the adjustment in fair market values have been officially suspended as per Ordinance No. SP-2778,” it added. The council, led by Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, warned the public to disregard the “erroneous” statement, saying the adjustment of fair market values had already been suspended. Rodolfo Ordañes, officer in charge of the Assessor’s Office, issued an April 16 written notice, directing property owners to disregard the previous letters. The legislative body explained that, in 2016, Mayor Herbert Bautista requested in a letter for the immediate update of fair market values of real properties, following directives sent by the Department of Interior and Local Government and Department of Finance. The city last raised its property values in 1996. In response, the council passed Ordinance No. SP2556 of 2016 to enact the fair market value adjustment. Though higher fair market values would lead to slightly higher property taxes, the council moved to reduce the assessment levels tax to drive down the total tax. The measure was put on hold in the same year due to a Supreme Court’s temporary restraining order, but the High Court “lifted the TRO in September 2018, there was no longer any barrier to the implementation of the overdue adjustment,” the statement read.

ENERGY DEAL. Bataan Vice Governor Cris Garcia (second from right), representing the provincial government, and Cocopower Energy Corp., Inc. represented by British

banker David Wood (second from left), and other company officers sign a Memorandum of Understanding on the proposed construction of a $500-million waste-to-energy power plant in the province under a Public Private Partnership scheme. Also pictured (from left) are E.S. Guinto Builders president Architect Everly Guinto and Edgardo F. Rivera, chief executive officer of Disruptive Energy Corp. Butch Gunio

Makati to hire seniors first By Joel E. Zurbano

HE Makati City government will prioritize senior citizens in the hiring of employees for the country’s ﬁrst subway train project.

Around 10,000 jobs will be made available to residents of Makati in the construction and operation of the subway. Mayor Abigail Binay said the partner-companies of the city have agreed to allocate jobs for senior citizens who are still fit to work once the subway becomes operational in about five years.

“Our private sector partners in the Makati Subway project are amenable to hiring able-bodied senior citizens to fill up various posts that will be available once the subway starts its operations about five years from now,” said Binay. “Just as what Japan has done, we want to keep our elderly residents

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Republic of the Philippines ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City

using the following formula: AC = L x P Where,

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE ANCILLARY SERVICES PROCUREMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES AND SN ABOITIZ POWER-MAGAT, INC., WITH PRAYER FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

ERC CASE NO. 2019-016 RC 14.

NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES (NGCP) AND SN ABOITIZ POWERMAGAT, INC. (SNAP-MI), Applicants. x----------------------------------------------------------------x

15.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: Notice is hereby given that on 22 February 2019, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and SN Aboitiz Power-Magat, Inc. (SNAP-MI), filed an Application dated 11 February 2019, seeking the Commission’s approval of the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (ASPA) between NGCP and SNAP-MI, with prayer for the issuance of provisional authority. The pertinent portions of the said Application are hereunder quoted as follows: NATURE OF THE CASE 1.

16.

Applicant NGCP is a corporation created and existing under the laws of the Philippines, with office address at NGCP Building, Quezon Avenue corner BIR Road, Diliman, Quezon City. It holds a franchise under Republic Act No. 95111 to engage in the business of conveying or transmitting electricity through high-voltage back-bone systems of interconnected transmission lines, substations and related facilities, and for other purposes. The franchise also includes the conduct of activities necessary to support the safe and reliable operation of the transmission system. Applicant SNAP-MI is a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines with principal place of business at Magat Hydroelectric Power Plant, Brgy. Aguinaldo, Ramon, Isabela. It may be served with orders, notices, and other legal processes through its undersigned counsel. It is the owner and operator of the Magat Hydro-Electric Power Plant (“Generation Facility”) located at the same address, which was certified and accredited by NGCP to be capable of providing Ancillary Services (“AS”) in the forms Regulating Reserve (“RR”), Contingency Reserve (“CR”), Dispatchable Reserve (“DR”) Black Start Service (“BSS”) and Reactive Power Support (“RPS”).

17.

18.

5. 6.

10.

11.

Republic Act No. 9136 (“EPlRA”) provides that it is the responsibility of NGCP to ensure and maintain the reliability, adequacy, security, stability and integrity of the nationwide electrical grid in accordance with the performance standards for its operations and maintenance, as set forth in the Philippine Grid Code (“PGC”)2, adopted and promulgated by the Honorable Commission, and to adequately serve generation companies, distribution utilities and suppliers requiring transmission service and/or ancillary services through the transmission system.3 Similarly, the PGC provides that NGCP is responsible for determining, acquiring, and dispatching the capacity needed to supply the required Grid AS and for developing and proposing Wheeling Charges and AS tariffs to the ERC.4 AS as defined in Section 4(b) of the EPIRA “refer to those services that are necessary to support the transmission of capacity and energy from resources to loads while maintaining reliable operation of the transmission system in accordance with good utility practice and the Grid Code to be adopted in accordance with this Act.” These services are essential in ensuring reliability in the operation of the transmission system and consequently, in the reliability of the electricity supply in the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao grids. In order to implement and regulate the procurement of AS, the Honorable Commission approved the Ancillary Services Procurement Plan (“ASPP”) through its Order dated 9 March 2006 in ERC Case No. 2002-253 and the Ancillary ServicesCost Recovery Mechanism (“AS-CRM”) through its Decision dated 3 October 2007 in ERC Case No. 2006-049RC. Pursuant to its mandate, NGCP on different dates published in newspapers of general circulation a Notice of Invitation for Prospective Ancillary Services Providers, inviting all grid-connected merchant plants and independent power producers to participate in the provision of ancillary services. It may be recalled that on 08 August 2016, the Applicants entered into an ASPA (2016 ASPA) for a period of 5 years for the procurement of RR, CR, DR and BSS. On 24 August 2016, the Applicants filed the Application for its approval docketed as ERC Case No. 2016-164RC before the Honorable Commission, which was provisionally approved through an Order dated 01 August 2017. To further support NGCP in maintaining power quality and the reliability of the Luzon Grid, SNAP-MI offered to provide RPS. Thus, on 14 January 2019, the Applicants entered into a new ASPA for RPS on a non-firm contracted capacity basis. A copy of the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement between NGCP and SNAP-MI dated 14 January 2019 is attached hereto as Annex “A”. During the period of negotiation, NGCP has certified that the units of the Generation Facility to have met and complied with the Standard Ancillary Services Technical Requirements of the ASPP as capable of providing RPS. A copy of NGCP Accreditation Certificate No. 2018-L027 dated 1 February 2019 is attached hereto as Annex “B”. NON-FIRM CONTRACTED CAPACITY RATE AND IMPACT SIMULATION

12.

13.

Under Clause 3 of the ASPA, SNAP-MI shall provide NGCP with the following AS as specified in Schedule 1 of the ASPA, as follows: Non-Firm Contracted Capacity Reactive Power Support (RPS) Available capacity of Reactive Power outside the range of 85% lagging and 90% leading power factor, as provided in Schedule 6. Note: This is in addition to the other Ancillary Service types provided under the Schedule 1 of ASPA entered into by SNAP-M and NGCP on 8 August 2016 with ERC Case No. 2016-164 RC. The Applicable Rates for the incidental kVARh covered by the ASPA as provided in Schedule 3 are as follows: Real Time Incidental kVARh Utilization while Providing Contingency or Dispatchable Reserves. This shall be paid based on the total recorded kVARh delivered/absorbed beyond 0.85 power factor lagging or 0.9 power factor leading from the time when the dispatch of RPS was instructed. The compensable kVARh shall be paid at: Incidental kVAR Rate: Php 4.00/ kVARh Compensable kVARh = Actual kVARh – Base kVARh Where: Actual kVAR = actual reactive power provided within each interval Base kVARh = corresponding kVARh at 0.85 power factor lagging or 0.9 power factor leading, for the unit’s MW loading. For clarity, the MW loading is the unit’s Pmin, or RTD schedule, whichever is greater. Actual Costs (AC) incurred by the Service Provider when providing reactive power support as a Synchronous Condenser shall be reimbursed by NGCP

Cost, PhP Mn

Indicative Rate Impact Php/kWPhp/kWh equivalent month

SNAP-Magat Generator SNAP-Magat Synchronous Condenser Undervoltage Condition

12.48

0.3006

0.0006

9.28

0.2235

0 .0005

Cost, PhP Mn

Indicative Rate Impact PhP/kWPhP/kWh equivalent month

153.56

2.3849

0.0049

446.58

6.9355

0.0142

A copy of the Rate Impact Simulation is attached hereto as Annex “C”. Consistent with the AS-CRM, all the related and incidental expenses which NGCP will incur as a result of the procurement and operation of the ancillary services shall be recovered from all the load customers in the Luzon. The ASPA shall be effective for a period of five (5) years, to commence immediately upon the effectivity of the provisional approval, or in the absence thereof, the final approval of the instant Application. In the event that the provisional or final approval, as the case may be, does not state a particular date of effectivity, the Agreement shall be effective on the date agreed upon by the Parties. SNAP-MI, as a generation company, falls within the ambit of Section 6 of the EPIRA. Attached are copies of relevant documents proving SNAP-MI’s due registration as a generation company, relevant permits to operate the Generation Facility and audited financial statements, as follows: Document Certificate of Compliance Summary of Existing Power Supply Agreement Articles of Incorporation Latest Security Exchange Commission – General Information Sheet Latest Audited Financial Statement WESM Registration

ANTECEDENT FACTS 4.

Overvoltage Condition

SNAP-Magat Generator SNAP-Magat Synchronous Condenser

This Application is for the approval of the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (“ASPA”) between the NGCP and SNAP-MI dated 14 January 2019, pursuant to the Decision dated 3 October 2007 in ERC Case No. 2006-049RC entitled: “In the Matter of the Application for the Approval of Ancillary Services – Cost Recovery Mechanism (AS-CRM) of the Ancillary Services Procurement Plan, with Prayer for Provisional Authority.” THE PARTIES

AC = Actual costs incurred by the Service Provider while providing the service. L = Actual consumption of the generating unit on Synchronous Condenser mode, specifically the consumption of the auxiliary load, in kWh. P = WESM ex-post nodal price at the trading node, or the equivalent 1-hour load-weighted average of the 5-minute nodal price when the 5-minute market is in place. Applicants submit that the rates represent a reasonable recovery of its opportunity cost in making available generation capacity to provide the procured AS. The rates under ASPA was subjected to a simulation by NGCP, the results of which are as follows:

productive while providing them with a steady source of income for their essential needs,” she added. The city chief executive reiterated that Makati residents will be given priority in the hiring of workers from the construction phase up to full-blast operations of the intracity subway system. She pointed out that the private sector had more leeway in hiring senior citizens than government units and agencies, which are constrained by the age limits set by Civil Service laws. Possible posts for the elderly at the subway include customer service representatives, ushers/porters, platform attendants, administrative assistants, utility workers, liaison officers, and surveillance/security aides, among others. Last December, Binay led the ceremonial drilling for the project at the City Hall grounds, and the unveiling of a scale model of the subway at the City Hall lobby.

Annex “D” “E” “F” “G” “H” “I”

While SNAP-MI is a co-applicant, it manifests that the instant Application shall neither modify, diminish or constitute a waiver of SNAP-MI’s rights nor expand its obligations and responsibilities as a generation company under EPIRA. ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY 19.

20.

21. 22.

It is a declared policy of the State to ensure the quality, reliability, security and affordability of the supply of electric power (Section 2 (b), EPIRA). To this end, there is a need to comply with the system requirements for AS to ensure grid system security and reliability. As mentioned above, NGCP has the mandate to procure the required AS. RPS is one of the ancillary services provided in the PGC that is essential in maintaining power quality and the reliability of the grid5. SNAP-MI having offered to provide its RPS, will significantly help maintain the required power quality and voltage level in North Luzon. The Generation Facility is strategically located in North Luzon, thus, its provision for RPS will definitely enable NGCP to comply with its mandate.6 Thus, NGCP and SNAP-MI agreed to execute another ASPA for a period of five years to provide RPS. In support of these allegations, NGCP submits a copy of the Judicial Affidavit of Engr. Lisaflor Bacani-Kater of the Revenue and Regulatory Affairs Department of NGCP, which is attached hereto as Annex “K”. PRAYER

WHEREFORE, premises considered, Applicants respectfully pray that the Honorable Commission: a) Immediately ISSUE a provisional authority to implement the subject ASPA executed on 14 January 2019; and b) APPROVE, after notice and hearing, the subject ASPA. Applicants pray for other just and equitable relief. The Commission has set the Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, pre-trial conference, and presentation of evidence on 22 May 2019 (Wednesday), at ten o’clock in the morning (10:00 A.M.), at Mango Suites City Road, Brgy. Calao East, Santiago City. All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following: 1) The petitioner’s name and address; 2) The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and 3) A statement of the relief desired. All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicant rests its case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1) The name and address of such person; 2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and 3) The grounds relied upon. All such persons who wish to have a copy of the Application may request from Applicants that they be furnished with the same, prior to the date of the initial hearing. NGCP and SNAP-MI are hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the standard office hours. WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO, AGNES VST DEVANADERA, and the Honorable Commissioners ALEXIS M. LUMBATAN, CATHERINE P. MACEDA, and PAUL CHRISTIAN M. CERVANTES Energy Regulatory Commission, this 4th day of April 2019 in Pasig City.

JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRIT Oversight Commissioner for Legal Service 1 2 3 4 5 6

An Act Granting the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines a Franchise To Engage in the Business of Conveying or Transmitting Electricity Through High Voltage Back-Bone System of Interconnected Transmission Lines, Substations and Related Facilities, and for other Purpose; Section 9 (c); Section 9 (d); Section 6.3 .1.2; Section 1.6, PGC; A copy of the List of Ancillary Services Providers in Luzon Certified with Reactive Power Support is attached as Annex “J”.

Other participants included former Vice President Jejomar Binay, representatives of the private consortium, and other city officials. Referring to it as a “very valuable legacy to the people of Makati,” the mayor expressed confidence that the Makati Subway will substantially improve the quality of life in the city for present and future generations, and fuel sustainable economic growth and inclusive progress. The Makati Subway, the first of its kind in the country, will be a joint venture between Makati City and a consortium of local and foreign investors, with no cash out on the part of the city. The 30-year concession with the consortium also includes maintenance and repair of the coaches and the control hub. The subway system will have two tracks, up to 10 underground stations, and air-conditioned coaches which can accommodate 200 persons per car. The entire system spans 10 kilometers with a train yard, maintenance depot, and central command center at ground level.

House bill pushes Rizal as tourism dev’t area

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Province of Rizal may soon be declared as a tourism development area, as the House of Representatives has approved the proposed Rizal Tourism Development Act. House Bill 8982 is expected to be approved on third and final reading when Congress resumes session in May. The bill’s author, Rep. Cristina Roa-Puno of Antipolo City, said the measure’s enactment will enable Rizal province to progress and become a first-class tourism area that will drive and propel the economy not only of the province, but of the country as a whole. HB 8982 seeks to mandate the Department of Tourism and the Department of Public Works and Highways to prioritize the development of Rizal province, subject to the rules and regulations governing the development of tourism development areas. The bill has already been approved on second reading. The measure declares that the State shall promote a tourism industry that is ecologically sustainable, responsible, participative, culturally sensitive, economically viable and equitable for local communities. “With this legislation, provision for the proper mechanisms and infrastructure for sustainable tourism development in the province will be established. Certain areas and sites identified as tourist destinations shall be promoted and developed, keeping in mind the preservation of the ecological balance and natural beauty of the province,” Roa-Puno said.

Goat takes spotlight in Aurora’s FIESTA

By Butch Gunio

BALER, Aurora―The provincial government of Aurora and the Central Luzon Agriculture Aquatic Resources Research and Development Consortium are hosting the two-day Farms and Industry Encounters through the Science Technology Agenda (FIESTA) featuring goat milk and goat meat. Gov. Gerry Noveras and other officials led the ribbon-cutting and ceremonial goat milk toast at the capitol compound to formally open the event dubbed “Goat FIESTA and 2nd Meat Festival” on Thursday. “In partnership with CLAARRDEC, we have developed many researches and technologies to improve goat industry, and these technologies

must reach you,” said Dr. Edwin Villar, Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development deputy executive director for Research and Development, in his keynote address. These technologies are generated from the PCAARRD-funded projects on goat, Villar said. Since 2006, funding of P150 million to P200 million was used on goat research projects. “The FIESTA we have now is not the typical fiesta. Our event is for you to learn the goat technologies we have developed,” he told goat farmers and entrepreneurs. The two-day event includes technology pitching, local products exhibit, goat show, meat processing contest, sharing of goat success stories, goat meat culinary contest, and poster-making.

Life

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE

CULTURE AND MEDIA

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

THE FESTIVAL OF FESTIVALS. Several contingents from all over the country will showcase their respective town's festivals in this year's Aliwan Fiesta at the CCP Complex.

Philippine festivals

Baguio City National High School represents the City of Pines' Panagbenga festival.

and design in the spotlight T

HE country’s diverse festivals and iconic designs are highlighted in two events happening this weekend.

Manila Broadcasting Company, Star City, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, in cooperation with the cities of Manila and Pasay, are staging this year’s Aliwan Fiesta which opened on April 25 and will run until April 27 at the CCP Complex. Aiming to show local and foreign audiences the richness and diversity of Filipino culture in a single venue, Aliwan Fiesta harnesses the power of Philippine festivals to showcase how religion, culture, and tradition are woven in the fiber of our existence. The three-day festival opened with a shoppers bazaar along Sotto Street at the CCP Complex, and a Pasakalye concert featuring Ben and Ben, Juan Karlos, This Band, and Extreme Lab. Meanwhile, 24 lovely young ladies representing different festivals from all over the country take to the outdoor stage in front of the Aliw Theater for the Reyna ng Aliwan Pageant happening tonight. Festivities will culminate with the grand parade and street dance showdown, which will kick off at Quirino Grandstand at 4:00 p.m. on April 27, traversing Roxas Boulevard en route to the CCP Complex, and capped by the awarding ceremonies at 9:00 p.m. Local designs take center stage at Manila FAME which opens its doors to thousands of international and local buyers this week, April 25-27. The 69th edition of the country’s premier design and lifestyle event at the World Trade Center in Pasay City is anchored on the theme “Heritage Reimagined” as it features iconic and forward-looking collections under Manila FAME from its over 30-year run. “Our goal is to highlight the most iconic styles and elements of past products and reintroduce them through modern interpretations,” said Pauline SuacoJuan, executive director of the Department of Trade and Industry - Center for

DTI-CITEM executive director Pauline SuacoJuan (third from left) with Manila FAME April 2019 designers (from left) Maco Custodio, Vince Uy, Andre Chang, Nix Alañon, and Stanley Ruiz.

International Trade Expositions and Missions. The Design Commune special setting features products from 115 local brands and manufacturers that have undergone product development and curation to meet the aesthetics and demands of the international market. Product development designers who were involved in this edition are Stanley Ruiz for home and lighting, Nix Alañon for furniture and lighting, André Chang for fashion, and PJ Arañador and Maco Custodio for the home and fashion sectors of the Artisans Village. The April edition also features 20 of the country’s rising online fashion entrepreneurs and designer commercial brands showcasing the latest trends in both couture and ready-to-wear fashion. Further, the Gender Responsive Economic Actions for the Transformation of Women presents arts and crafts by women entrepreneurs who have undergone product development workshops.

Wood-carved netsuke on exhibit

Meeya Cruz, founder of Calligrafriends PH

Tippy Go of Googly Gooeys

Watercolorist Carla Chua

Art fest showcases calligraphy, manga drawing TRADITIONAL art and contemporary expressions will converge in the upTokyo coming SM Stationery Art Fest 2019 on Finds May 1-5 at the Mega Fashion Hall. Floating The five-day event will showcase exArt Kit hibitions and workshops on calligraphy, watercolor, and acrylic floral painting, as well as 3D art, manga drawing, and pop art. Award-winning filmmaker Niko Salazar will inspire young animators and anime enthusiasts with his sessions on the tricks of 3D art and the basics of manga drawing. Cebu-based calligrapher Coy Barredo, on the other hand, will help participants start their own travel journal in “Go for Goals! Travel Dream Board with Faux calligraphy.” Watercolorist Carla Chua, and watercolor hobbyists Oats Tiu and Meeya Cruz will share some styles and techniques in watercolor floral painting as well as painting Chubby Birds using Pixie Ink. Tippy Go will teach moms and kids how to create a DIY tote bag and DIY 3D wall art; while multi-faceted artist Zate will teach kids the technique of Shoppers can join the workshop on Celvic Villacorta will help update and Suminagashi Floral Papercutting. May 4-5 when they purchase items personalize caps and make colorful bag The aforementioned young artists will worth at least P300 from one participattags and water bottles. Janus Aragones- present their artworks during the art fest. ing booth at the Mega Fashion Hall.

AS KIMONO culture flourished during the Edo period (1603-1868) in Japan, netsuke, or small carved ornaments, were created as toggles to secure small personal items such as money pouches and inrō (medicine containers). From functional pieces used to prevent those little containers from falling, it evolved into small but highly creative carvings. Today, classic netsuke have gained international acclaim as remarkably detailed carvings. Some netsuke enthusiasts and carvers have managed to keep the tradition alive in Japan. The Japan Foundation Manila, in collaboration with Ayala Museum and Ayala Malls, brings this piece of art to the country via a traveling exhibition, dubbed “Contemporary Wood-carved Netsuke,” opening at Capitol Central in Bacolod City on May 1-26 and at Greenbelt in Makati on July 1-21. “Netsuke is unique in that daily commodities have evolved into art form in the course of time,” said Japan Foundation director Hiroaki Uesugi. “I believe viewers can enjoy and appreci-

By Motomasa Kurita

Netsuke by Hiroaki Nakanishi

ate the delicate work of art created by Japanese craftsmanship.” The crafts exhibition will display 65 works by contemporary Japanese netsuke carvers and artists. It is open to the public for free. To complement the exhibition as well as celebrate the Philippine-Japan Friendship Month in July, two renowned netsuke artists and experts from Japan, Tadamine Nakagawa and Asuka Kajiura, are coming to give lecture and demonstration about this distinct and historical art form.

Entertainment

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

nickie.standard@gmail.com

By Nickie Wang

T A recent gig held in Pasay City, Jamir Garcia, the frontman of Slapshock, with bandmates Lee Nadela (bass guitar), Lean Ansing (lead guitar), Chi Evora (drums), and Jerry Basco(rhythm guitar/backup vocals), set the stage on ﬁre when they performed and led the launch of “Bandera” music video.

Slapshock raises its flag

In an interview with Manila Standard before the quintet hit the stage, Garcia said that the new music video is the band’s way to appreciate the people, especially the fans, who have been supporting their musical journey for the past 22 years. “It’s for those who come to our show wearing our flag. We can’t think of a better way to thank them,” Garcia said. “ The song is a bit melodic and not that heavy compared to other songs that we have. Before kasi, it’s like, masyado kaming galit sa mundo when we were young, but we’ve already matured. We’re in a different time now so it’s a way of reinventing our music as well,” he carried on. The frontman of the alternative metal band further said that the song took inspiration from the various banners that the Slap Armies, a nickname for the band’s loyal fans, created showing which province or city they represent. These flags are the same streamers they wave during Slapshock shows. “The song is also an ode to Filipinos around the world who continuously and tirelessly work for their family,” Garcia noted. The music video launch also marked the start of Slapshock’s Bandera Tour this year. The band is also embarking on Slapshock celebrates its 22 years in the business and will embark on a global tour to mark this milestone. a global tour including a show in South Korea and a six-date gig in Canada. having successfully launched seven studio their priorities have changed, their love for makes you progress because you’re still Originally formed in 1997 as a nu metal albums, two compilation records, and two their craft remains intact and even more up for challenges. We’re still hungry, act, Slapshock remains a force to reckon EPs. “fiery,” if you will. we’re on fire, we feel like a new band. with on the alternative music scene While band members have matured and “I think if you still get surprised that Our success wasn’t even calculated and

GMA News top local news organization at VideoAces Awards

‘Stand for Truth’ is the latest online newscast GMA News and Public Affairs produced to revolutionize the way information is presented and consumed.

GMA Network remains the leader in media coverage both on-air and online. At the recent VideoAces Awards by analyticsﬁrm Tubular Labs, GMA News emerged as the top news organization in the Philippines in terms of online video viewership. Based from data, the said video measurement company showed how GMA News made waves online in 2018—getting 1.2 billion views on Facebook, 1.1 billion on YouTube, and 8.1 billion viewers on Instagram, thus becoming the number 1 local media creator on social video, based on 2018 crossplatform social video views. Worldwide, GMA News secured the 17th place among News & Politics Media Creators, three spots above ABS-CBN News. The list was topped by various international news outlets such as ABC News, CNN, and Daily Mail. “Our online viewership is a reﬂection of our commitment to Serbisyong Totoo, the hallmark of GMA News and Public Affairs, which remains true for any platform—from television to online,” says GMA Senior Vice President for News and Public Affairs Marissa L. Flores. “ This award will inspire our digital team to continue bringing the most important and engaging news to Filipinos here and abroad, directly to their device of choice,” says GMA Network Assistant Vice President for News and Public Affairs Digital Media Jaemark

Tordecilla. Regarded as the most internationally-awarded broadcast news organization in the country, GMA News and Public Affairs continues to be a trailblazer and innovator with its original productions in the digital space, in addition to making its awardwinning programs available online. Among its current slate of digital efforts are #GMAnewsfeed, a live Facebook newscast, FYI with Richard Heydarian, Ask Away: the GMA News Q&A, Magtanong Kay Mang Tani,DigiDokyu, #RealTalk, Conversations@GMANews, and the YouScoop Asks series for Eleksyon 2019, where senatorial candidates answer tough questions from citizen journalists. GMA News and Public Affairs is also bringing the future of online news via Stand for Truth - an all-new digital newscast which premiered on April 15. Produced and reported by the young, for the young, Stand for Truth is headlined by Atom Araullo with Richard Heydarian and Joyce Pring. They are joined by a line-up of millennial reporters who will deliver the news. Stand for Truth streams on GMA News Online and the GMA News Public Affairs’ YouTube page weeknights at 8:00 p.m.. Tubular Labs is a video measurement and analytics platform. Every year, it releases a list of top social video brands and media ﬁrms via the VideoAces Awards.

we were never particular of anything,” Garcia said of their continued musical reinvention and the members’ effort to make their music relevant.

Twirl it like Catriona

THE country’s leading fast-food brand has added no less than the most beautiful woman in the universe to its stellar roster of endorsers. Jollibee officially welcomed Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray to its family of celebrity endorsers, a partnership based upon the latter’s iconic slow-mo turn and lava walk on the world’s biggest pageant stage. “I feel incredibly honored to be part of the Jollibee family and this successful homegrown brand that makes me proud to be a Filipino,” shared the 25-year-old reigning queen. “Being able to associate the new and improved slow-melt Jolly Twirl with my own slow-mo twirl makes this opportunity a great fit, and it’s a bonus that I absolutely love this dessert,” she added. Catriona also shared how excited she was for the experience of having filmed the commercial with Twirlie, one of Jollibee’s friends who gracefully mimicked her famous lava walk right after her victory. In a twirling showdown, Miss Universe even graciously commended Twirlie’s moves.

Catriona Gray is welcomed as a new addition to the growing family of Jollibee celebrity endorsers.

“Twirlie and I have our own special twirls, but I must say—the best twirl ever is now the Jolly Twirl,” Catriona beamed. “We at Jollibee feel very honored to have Catriona join our family,” said Francis Flores, Jollibee Global Brand Chief Marketing Ofﬁcer. “She has shown incredible grace,

empathy, and Filipino excellence in the world stage brought home the most coveted crown, and continues to help and inspire Filipino children through her advocacies. She called us iconic, but she’s an equally iconic ﬁgure—an iconic queen that captured our nation’s heart,” Flores concluded.

Idol hopefuls boost singing tilt’s TV rating, online presence

Idol hopeful Angie Kristine’s audition tops the trending videos on YouTube with more than 2.5 million views as of this writing.

ABS-CBN’s newest singing-reality competition Search for Idol Philippines premiered strongly on Sunday (April 21) as it set the record for the fastest ABS-CBN show to gain 100,000 subscribers on YouTube and topped the weekend programming. With only an episode in and in less than 18 hours after the pilot episode aired, the show already achieved a major milestone on YouTube as it reached the number of subscribers and will soon receive the Silver Creator Award from YouTube. The channel has 180,000 subscribers as of this writing. It further proved its online prowess as the performance of idol hopeful Angie Kristine became the number one trending video on YouTube as it garnered 1.8 million views only a day after it was uploaded. The four audition clips have reached a total of 6 million views on YouTube in just 24 hours.

The show also made waves on Twitter as the ofﬁcial hashtag #IdolPhilippines and related trending topics #IdolPHRegineV, #IdolPHJudgeVice, #IdolPHJudgeMoira, #IdolPHJudgeJames, and even the names of the idol hopefuls secured spots in the list of trending topics. Netizens, meanwhile, were quick to share their excitement on social media and posted praises for the judges and the contestants. Meanwhile, more households nationwide tuned it to the show’s premiere as it scored a national TV rating of 30.6 percent, or 17.4-points higher compared to Studio 7 that registered 13.2 percent, according to data from Kantar Media. This coming weekend, the judges will sift through more idol hopefuls to determine who deserves to head to Idol City and pursue their dreams.

Motoring

FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

SHELL ECO-MARATHON

Five teams of PH students vie for glory in iconic Sepang M AKE the Future Live Malaysia, goes to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 29 – May 2, 2019 bringing together representatives from business, academia, government and high school and university students to explore the future of energy and mobility. At the heart of Make the Future Live Malaysia is Shell Eco-marathon Asia, which celebrates its 10th year of challenging bright young student minds to design and build ultra-energy-efﬁcient cars, and then take them out on the track in competition. This year, the event will see over 100 university and high school

teams from 18 countries across Asia Paciﬁc and Middle East come together in a display of ultra-energy efﬁciency innovation. “Make the Future Live Malaysia provides a platform for innovation, collaboration and conversation towards a lowercarbon energy future, particularly in Asia

with its diversity, complexity and varying energy challenges,” said Norman Koch, Make the Future Live General Manager. “The Sepang International Circuit provides a real track experience, making it a challenging and competitive track venue for the heart of the Make the Future Live events, Shell Eco-marathon.” The Philippines will again be participating in Shell Eco-marathon Asia, from nine universities with a total of 11 futuristic cars they have designed and built themselves. They will now take to the track competing to be the most energyefﬁcient. Five of the university teams availed of Pilipinas Shell’s technical inspection assistance to boost their cars’ readiness for race day. Students will have to navigate the iconic Sepang International Circuit in the

Shell Eco-marathon Mileage Challenge – a test to see whose car could go the farthest using the least amount of energy. Last year in Singapore, the winning team was efficient enough to travel 2,341 kilometres – about the distance from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Yangon, Myanmar – on just one litre of fuel! Teams will also be able to qualify for the Drivers’ World Championship – matching the proven energy efficiency of their vehicle, with the speed, skill and strategy of the driver in a race to cross the finish line first without running out of their tiny allocation of energy. For the first time, Shell Eco-marathon Asia will welcome entrants from Nepal. Students from Kathmandu University will compete with a prototype gasoline vehicle.

Hauling cargo with Piaggio Text and photos by Lester Dizon IN THE late 1940s, the Italians were reeling from the effects of the Second World War. Knowing that people lacked the ability to acquire and pay for the upkeep of four-wheeled vehicles, aircraft designer CorradinoD’Ascanio—he inventor of the Vespa scooter—came up with a solution. He designed a small-scale, threewheeled commercial vehicle that could help rebuild Italy’s economy from the ground up, giving small entrepreneurs a chance at surviving the difficult financial environment. This vehicle was the Piaggio APÉ. In a world where small-scale entrepreneurship thrives, the APÉ remains true to what it set out to do when it first came out: help the economy from the ground up. Now, more than ever, there is a need for small economical workhorses that can deliver goods and haul cargo while traversing the small streets of the city economically. An Ingenious Business Solution With three new models and a wide range of customization options, the Piaggio APÉ is the most adaptable small-scale platform around. A naturally-aspirated 435cc 4-stroke single-cylinder diesel engine with direct fuel injection powers the APÉ and delivers a highly efficient 36 kilometers per liter. As a business tool, it is cost-effective and easy to maintain. It’s also EURO 4 compliant and classified as

Autohub president Willy Tee Ten presents of Piaggio’s workhorses.

a non-polluting vehicle, even when carrying its maximum capacity, lessening its impact on the environment. Capable of bearing half a ton, the Piaggio APÉ 3-wheeler is especially convenient for hauling cargo over narrow, crowded streets, with a footprint that measures 3,144 millimeter x 1,490 mm and carry load of 435-600 kilograms. It can be conﬁgured for basically anything—Drive-Away Chassis (DAC), City, Passenger, Long Deck, Closed Van, and 3-Wing Van—allowing it to adapt to whatever you need. Partnering with Grab, the foremost ride hailing service in the country, the APÉ can also offer alternative transport solutions to an underserved sector. Last April 23, at the White Space Events Place in Makati, Autoitalia Philippines Enterprises, Inc., the exclusive distributor of Piaggio APÉ in the Philip-

pines, launched three new updated APÉ Diesel models – the Auto DX, Xtra LDX and Auto DAC. The first model, the APÉ Auto DX, features a passenger platform that can carry up to four passengers and a driver. Priced at P218,000, the APÉ Auto DX comes in Blanco White, Western Red, Eco-Green, Charming Blue, Jet Black and Golden Yellow. The second model, the APÉ Xtra LDX, is the basic cargo model that comes with a 3-sided cargo deck opening that can carry 535 kilograms. Reliable and efficient, it is priced at P248,000 and comes in Blanco White and Charming Blue. APÉ Xtra LDX – P248,000 The APÉ Auto Drive-Away Chassis (DAC) is equipped with a flatbed that measures 5 feet by 5 feet (5×5), which gives it a lot of space for cargo. This model is highly customizable—it can be turned into a closed van or a 3-wing van:

cafe, bar, food truck, support vehicle, or whatever you can imagine. It can also be turned into a small jeepney, patrol car, or even a ﬁre truck, making it a good solution for local government units (LGUs), especially those with narrow roads and tight spaces. Priced at P218,000, it comes in Blanco White, Western Red, Eco-Green, and Jet Black. After presenting the three updated three-wheeled Piaggio workhorses, Willy Tee Ten, the President of the Autohub Group, presented the fourth affordable workhorse, the Piaggio Porter 1000. The Porter 1000 combines the toughness of a truck with the size of a city car, making it a handy solution for cargo while efﬁciently using space. Coupled with the ease of maintaining a small vehicle, it provides you the option to carry larger loads while avoiding the costs of a fullsized truck.

Toyota owners, celebs see action at Vios festival TOYOTA Motor Philippines brings back waku-doki this year with a bigger and better motorsports program, the Vios Racing Festival. Toyota resumes the summer festival with the Vios Autocross Challenge on April 28, 2019 (Sunday), 9:00 A.M. at Block 16, Mall of Asia open grounds. Celebrity racers such as Gerald Anderson, Daniel Matsunaga, Chie Filomeno, Gretchen Ho, Aubrey Miles, Troy Montero, and Fabio Ide will see action and compete at the autocross tracks with other racers. And in one of the Vios Racing Festival’s many twists, Toyota owners can now get the chance to be official racers at the Vios Autocross Challenge. Interested Toyota owners may visit www.facebook.com/ToyotaMotorPhilippines to participate in an online game that will determine who gets the chance to be a racer for the weekend. “Toyota wants to make racing an accessible sport for the ordinary Filipino by providing an extraordinary opportunity to get themselves started, fueled by their passion for motorsports,” said Satoru Suzuki, President of TMP. The Vios Autocross Challenge is a new addition to the standard circuit racing format. It is a timed competition wherein drivers navigate through an obstacle course one at a time, aiming to finish the track within the shortest lap time possible. This new format will be more amateur-friendly than a standard circuit race, where all participants are simultaneously racing against each other. The adrenaline factor is retained through several mechanics which highlight driving precision: for example, every pylon hit adds 2 seconds on top of the racer’s final lap time. In order to promote a more inclusive racing scene that fosters friendly competition, drivers from different backgrounds are invited: celebrities, social media influencers, car club members, new Vios owners, motoring journalists, and now even loyal Toyota patrons. How to join the Vios Autocross Challenge? The online promo on Facebook is open to all Toyota owners—regardless of model and year—that can drive a Manual Transmission vehicle. Toyota Motor Philippines will be lending out race-ready Vios units during the event day to at least 5 lucky participants with the best captioned entries. The official Facebook post can be accessed through this link: http://bit.ly/2GBCmVM Chosen entries will be announced via Facebook. Toyota said its representatives will contact the winners for further participation instructions.

Motoring

RAMON L. TOMELDAN Editor

C4 FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2019

‘B

igger, older, etter’

• Honda Brio pulls off 3-hat trick

Text and photos by By Lester Dizon

T USED to be that the A-Segment passenger car category is all about small affordable fuelefficient (SAFE) cars that tend to look, uh… safe, i.e. common, bland and unexciting. But last April 23 at the ballroom of the Grand Hyatt Hotel BGC, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc., upped the ante by infusing Honda’s signature sporty and practical characteristics into the all-new 2019 Honda Brio and Brio RS. And as if the two unveiling surprises were not enough, HCPI pulled a third hat trick with the new car’s affordable price package. HCPI President and General Manager Noriyuki Takakura conﬁdently stated that the excitement generated by the allnew second-generation Brio will further help bolster the sales and market share of Honda cars in the country. Tsutomu Harano, the development leader of Honda Research and Development (R&D) AsiaPaciﬁc, explained that the all-new Honda sub-compact hatchback was based on the grand concept “Proud Over Class” that was developed by the company in response to their customers’ needs, keeping in mind the Filipino end-users. The concept introduced improvements that placed the all-new Brio a class above the competitors in its segment.

Honda designers conceptualized the interior of the all-new Brio on the idea of “Comfort, Harmonize and High Quality”. The new car features a wheelbase that is 60mm longer than the previous model that extends the cargo area by 90mm and endows it with increased passenger comfort and bigger trunk space, which can easily accommodate larger items. The hatchback can swallow 258 liters of cargo with the rear seats up or 710 liters with the rear seats folded down. Its ﬂexible and spacious interior allows it to carry cargo that belies its sub-compact body. • Increased interior room was derived from the all-new Brios’ longer wheelbase. • The rear legroom is more spacious than the previous model. • Rear cargo space can hold 258 liters with the rear seats up. Honda engineers added a digital display for the manually-controlled air conditioning system and provided a choice of in-car entertainment with two different audio head unit options: a 7-inch touch screen audio system (1.2 V CVT) and a

Hyundai Venue makes world debut • All-new entry level SUV marks seventh in Hyundai’s lineup

HCPI President and General Manager Noriyuki Takakura strikes a commanding pose beside Honda’s latest offering.

1-DIN audio unit (1.2 S MT). The two audio systems provide intuitive controls and functions, and features easy connectivity to the occupants’ devices via Bluetooth or USB port. Clearly, this new Honda sub-compact hatchback will prove to be a comfortable cocoon to while away Metro Manila’s horrendous traffic. Bolder Outside In line with the “Proud Over Class” grand concept, the all-new Brio features an exciting, dynamic and mature exterior styling where designers created a sleek sporty profile and strong sense of motion that emphasized the car’s low center-ofgravity and wide stance. Its sporty front fascia features a honeycomb front grille and multi-reflector halogen headlights with LED parking light guides. Unlike its first-generation version, the design of the all-new Brio is harmonious and its character lines neatly align all the design elements from front to back. To maintain excellent rear visibility while providing improved body rigidity, stiffness and safety, the all-new Brio now features a new tailgate instead of the large glass panel of its predecessor. New rear combination lamps with rear reflectors not only improve the car’s visibility to drivers behind it, the large external red NEW YORK—At the 2019 New York International Auto Show, Hyundai introduced its all-new 2020 Venue, the latest SUV to join its growing product lineup. Venue is packed with a host of premium driver safety and convenience technologies and is the perfect fit for those seeking a seamless combination of style and versatility. Venue will be the most affordable Hyundai SUV, and joins its larger siblings including the North American Utility of the Year Kona and Kona Electric, Tucson, Santa Fe, the 8-passenger Palisade and NEXO. Venue will be built in Ulsan, Korea and will arrive in Hyundai dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year. “The all-new Venue might be small in size, but it’s big on practicality and per-

lenses of the tail and brake lights expand to the edge of the vehicle to emphasize the car’s sleek, wide and sporty stance. Improvements Its new 1.2-liter inline 4-cylinder SOHC i-VTEC engine, which churns out 90PS at 6,000 rpm and 110 Newton-

Ample cargo space despite a sub-compact body.

sonality,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Its bold and unique character sets it apart from other SUVs on the market, offering a unique, entry-level vehicle for those consumers seeking savvy design with an abundance of standard safety, technology and connectivity features.” Venue Highlights • Bold, modern design elements with optional two-tone extroverted color options for roof, mirrors and trim • Smartstream Gamma 1.6-liter engine with 6-speed manual or Smartstream IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) • Venue empowers the urban entrepreneur lifestyle many consumers experience in today’s fast-paced environment

meters of torque at 4,800 rpm, is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that was developed based on Honda’s Earth Dreams technology. This engine and transmission, combined with the all-new Brio’s light 992-kilogram curb weight, promises brisk acceleration, smooth cruising, and increased fuel economy. For those who savor the pleasures of driving a racy stick shift, the Brio 1.2S MT with its 5-speed manual transmission may be their ideal hatchback. Diminutive 1.2-liter SOHC i-VTEC inline-4 packs 110Nm of torque. Sleeker aerodynamics and light weight helps improve overall performance. Despite the longer wheelbase, the tight turning circle is maintained. Improved platform, unibody construction, and essential active and passive vehicle safety features afforded a 4-Star ASEAN NCAP safety rating for the allnew Brio. Honda’s G-CON technology enhances impact absorption for the added protection of passengers in an event of a collision. To provide security and peace of mind for its occupants, all variants of Honda’s A-Segment hatchback will be equipped with dual front driver and front passenger SRS airbags and anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard. • 8-inch color screen audio system with Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM • Premium Technology Availability • 8-inch Navigation System featuring AVN 5.0 o Bluetooth® Handsfree Phone System & Next-generation Blue Link® Connected Car System o Dual Charging USB (USB fast charging and USB 2.0 data reading) o Rear View Monitor o Heated Front Seats and Side Mirrors o Drive modes includes snow mode for FWD driving performance • Advanced Safety Technologies o Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) o Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) o Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) o Driver Attention Warning (DAW) o Rear Cross-Trafﬁc Warning.