“Former presidential spokesman Harry Roque said President Duterte did that because he wanted peace. Another president can have another view,” Jardeleza said in a radio interview.
“The President is the chief architect of
policy. We have a new president,” he added.
SENATOR Joel Villanueva on Monday filed a resolution strongly condemning China’s unprovoked acts of aggression,
harassment, and
actions in the West Philippine Sea.
In
“The
said
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employed by China, notwithstanding the PCA award and the provisions of the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea). As in previous incidents, the People’s Republic of China has continued to ignore the PCA Award and deny the harassment and intimidation claims of the Philippines,” he said.
The resolution also urged the executive branch to exert all legal and diplomatic countermeasures against China.
Senator Imee Marcos, for his part, said the country should engage in
proper talks with China and other claimants in the WPS through “prevalence of reason and not emotion.”
“Let us be strong in the midst of this challenge, but calm thinking and speech, and calculated decisions, should prevail,” the senator said. She said if an emotional approach continues to prevail, this could lead the country “to a dangerous path that will cost us more than just Filipino pride.”
The President earlier said the Philippines would not be cowed into silence amid China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea. “We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim
to be our friends, but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience. Filipinos do not yield,” Mr. Marcos said.
National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya, for his part, said the government will exhaust all diplomatic means and not just military response to prevent conflict in the WPS.
“The proportionate, deliberate and reasonable response that the President was talking about covered not only the aspect of strengthening our military or our defense capabilities together with other allies, partners and friends but it also talks about exhausting diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue,” Malaya
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The residents echoed concerns aired by some lawmakers and defense officials on the possible presence of Chinese “sleeper” agents in key sectors, recently within the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, amid Beijing’s aggressive posturing in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In an interview, Geraldine Natividad, an incumbent director of the Multinational Village Homeowners’ Association Inc. (MVHA), said the Chinese nationals, purportedly employed by nonspecific Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and currently “numbering in the thousands,” have already taken over parts of their sprawling subdivision.
Natividad said that at least 10 Chinese restaurants and a number of spa salons that cater exclusively to Chinese expatriates and shun Filipino patrons were established within their subdivision.
POGOs have also secured subdivision gate stickers for no less than 800 “HiAce-type” vans to service the transportation needs of their Chinese employees residing in Multinational Village, she added.
“There is an enclave within our village called City Garden that is populated exclusively by Mainland Chinese. This is apart from the numerous hous-
es and tenement structures being rented by them. We have learned that in some cases, 50 or more foreigners are crammed inside these rented housing units,” she told the Manila Standard.
For his part, MVHA member Dennis Sanchez said he has personally observed that the Chinese POGO workers “seem physically fit, disciplined and all sport the same military-style haircut.”
He noted that at a certain time during the day, the foreigners would fall into what appears to be military formation and jog around the subdivision while wearing the same black athletic attire.
“You can tell from the way they carry themselves that they have a high level of discipline. They seem to have leaders who bark out orders when they are exercising,” he said in Filipino.
Meanwhile, MVHA member Raymundo Sian recalled that Chinese nationals started moving into their village in droves sometime during the Duterte administration, widely regarded as a “golden age” of Manila-Beijing relations.
Sian also pointed out that the Chinese newcomers have largely been rude toward their Filipino neighbors, at times bordering on being bullies.
He cited as an example their frequent obstruction of traffic flow within the village when they assume their rigid jogging formation, refusing to make way and forcing cars belonging to legitimate subdivision homeowners to a halt.
JAPAN’S royal family is now on Instagram – but don’t expect any candid selfies from its official account, which went live Monday in a cautious social media debut for the ancient monarchy.
The first 19 posts are formally staged photos and videos of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako carrying out royal duties at recent public appearances.
Nonetheless, more than 160,000 users have followed the Imperial Household Agency (IHA) account, which was announced a week ago but set to private until Monday.
The Japanese monarchy has mythological origins stretching back more than two millennia, and any public criticism of the emperor remains taboo in the country.
By joining social media, the institution hopes to spark interest among younger generations about what the imperial family does, an IHA spokesperson confirmed to AFP.
But, perhaps predictably, the posts under the Instagram handle kunaicho_jp contain no behind-thescenes juice.
Strictly factual captions explain what the emperor did on what day, from meeting foreign dignitaries to admiring bonsai trees, with comments moderated.
The account does not follow any other users, and has so far not ventured into Instagram Stories.
“The IHA is on Instagram! I thought it was an April Fools’ prank!” one X user wrote in reaction to the launch.
“When I heard the IHA created an Instagram account, I quickly checked it out. But of course the emperor wouldn’t post ‘today’s lunch (heart emoji)’ or anything like that,” wrote another.
Some users joked it was good the royals had chosen the more “civilized” Instagram over X, formerly Twitter. Naruhito ascended the Chrysanthemum throne in 2019 in a tradition-laden ceremony after his highly popular father became the first emperor to abdicate in over two centuries.
Other monarchies have created social media accounts, including Britain’s royals. AFP
KOREAN idol Nancy McDonie has joined GMA Network’s talent management arm, Sparkle Artist Center. A former member of the popular K-pop girl group Momoland, Nancy officially signed with Sparkle on Monday.
In a post shared on Instagram, Sparkle welcomed the singer-dancer to its family of stars.
“Sparkle proudly welcomes its new international star, Nancy McDonie, to its diverse and stellar roster of talents. Get ready to witness
her journey as she shines among the brightest stars in the industry! Welcome to Sparkle, Nancy.”
The 23-year-old Korean-American singer and dancer rose to fame as the lead vocalist and lead dancer of Momoland, captivating audiences with their hit songs “Bboom Bboom” and “BAAM.”
The group disbanded in February 2023. This makes Nancy the second Kpop artist to join Sparkle, following Lapillus member Chanty who signed a contract in November 2022.
said in a press briefing.
Malaya said war is not in the interest of the Philippines or any of the country’s allies and partners.
“So given that, we will have to find a diplomatic solution for these problems as part of the package of counter measures and responses that the President spoke about,” he said.
China, for its part, declined to comment on the possibility that the Philippines will file another arbitral case for the destruction of the marine environment in the West Philippine Sea.
“No comment now,” the Chinese Embassy in Manila said on Monday when asked to comment about the Philippines’ plan.
Mr. Marcos announced Marbil’s appointment yesterday as he presided over the ceremonial change of command and the retirement honors for Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr., who concluded his extended tenure as PNP chief with his retirement on March 31.
On Sunday, in a statement, Malacañang said Peralta would serve as the PNP officer-in-charge as Acorda ended his term on the same day.
“In the exigency of the service, and to ensure the continuous and effective delivery of service, please be informed that Police Lieutenant General Emmanuel Baloloy Peralta is designated as concurrent Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Chief, PNP, effective 31 March 2024, until a replacement is appointed or until otherwise directed by this office,” a memorandum signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated.
The memorandum -- dated March 27 -- was addressed to Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos. The PNP is an attached agency of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
Meanwhile, President Marcos said during the ceremony at Camp Crame in Quezon City: “Police General Marbil, you have my full confidence and my full support as you begin to champion a police that is pro-God, pro-country, pro-people, and pro-environment.”
“Let us work closely with you in addressing emerging threats such as cybercrime, terrorism, and transnational crimes,” he added.
The President ordered Marbil to uphold the highest standards as the newest PNP chief and to lead the country’s police force as the agent of progressive transformation in securing the safety and well-being of the public.
Marbil, an alumnus of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1991, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new leadership role.
He served as the head of the PNP Directorate for Comptrollership, as well as fulfilling roles as the Regional Director of the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) in Western Visayas and Director of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG), among others.
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Roque earlier disclosed that based on the “gentleman’s agreement” with China, the Philippines committed to deliver only food and water supplies to Filipino troops on the decrepit ship grounded on Ayungin Shoal.
He, however, clarified the agreement does not involve the towing or removal of the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, nor was it binding on President Marcos.
Roque said the Duterte strategy showed that there is an “alternative” to the current administration policy.
“I would think Filipinos might know that this policy is better because it avoids the repeated instance wherein our countrymen are being water cannoned by China,” he said in a separate radio interview yesterday.
The President in August said there is no deal to withdraw the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, and that he rescinds any agreement should it exist.
“This ceremony is not meant as a farewell to General Acorda, but a chance to acknowledge and congratulate him for his efforts, his patriotism, his unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our people,” Mr. Marcos said.
“During his time as Chief, PNP, he introduced the Five-Focused Agenda, which guided the organization towards more honest law enforcement operations, enhanced information technology capabilities, and stronger community relations,” he added.
Mr. Marcos also urged the public to work with the police and the government and strive to build a “Bagong Pilipinas.”
“I enjoin everyone to face the coming days with even greater fervor, determination, and optimism to achieve our goals and aspirations for this nation,” the President said.
“Let us remain vigilant in the face of challenges and opportunities as we strive to build a Bagong Pilipinas where everyone can thrive and live in peace,” he added. For his part, Marbil vowed to achieve the administration’s goal of securing a strong economy, a well-ordered society, and an organized police force.
“My dream is also your dream. A strong economy, a well-ordered society, and a well-organized police force - those were the first words spoken by the President during the inauguration. Your Excellency, sir, I can say that it will come true,” he said. President Marcos acknowledged the tangible results of the PNP’s endeavors in combating various forms of crime, underscoring the diligence of the officers and personnel, along with the efficacy of the national police’s programs.
Referencing an OCTA Research survey from the previous year, Mr. Marcos underscored the PNP’s recognition as the 3rd Highest Performing and Most Trusted among 25 government agencies in the second quarter of 2023, attaining a 76 percent trust rating.
“This indicates the public’s increasing trust and confidence in the police force,” he stated.
President Marcos thanked Acorda, who reached the compulsory retirement age of 56 but had his term extended for three months, and commended his tenure at the helm of the country’s police force for a job well done.
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Visayas shifted to alternative delivery modes on Monday following the suspension of in-person classes over the extreme heat.
It was the same for students in Libon, Albay, who were told not to wear school uniforms after an advisory issued by the Office of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council under Mayor Wilfredo V. Maronilla.
“Amid the increasing heat index (with Albay’s heat index reaching to 36 to 41℃, equivalent to extreme caution) it is advisable for the students and pupils to wear comfortable and presentable clothing (cotton shirts) going to school,” the mayor’s office said.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, in its two-day forecast, said Aparri in Cagayan Valley and Catarman in Northern Samar hit 43 degrees Celsius on the heat index on Monday.
The heat index also reached 42℃ at Pili, Camarines Sur and Zamboanga City.
Other areas forecast to experience 41℃ on the heat index were Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Puerto Princesa City and Aborlan in Palawan; Roxas City in
Capiz; Iloilo City and Dumangas in Iloilo; La Granja, La Carlota in Negros Occidental; Tacloban City in Leyte; and Butuan City in Agusan del Norte.
Besides Iloilo City and Tantangan, South Cotabato, local government units in Bacolod City, Roxas, Capiz, Kabankalan in Negros Occidental, and E.B. Magalona in Negros Occidental also suspended face-to-face classes in private and public schools.
PAGASA said the heat index in the country may get worse this April, noting that the heat felt by the human body or the “apparent temperature” is not accurately measured using only the air temperature. This feeling is more correctly estimated with humidity. Heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, which is computed considering air temperature and humidity, said PAGASA.
The weather bureau said there are four classifications of heat index based on the possible effects of the temperature to people: Caution - from 27 to 32 degrees Celsius; Extreme Caution - from 33 °C to 41°C; Danger - from 42°C to 51°C; and Extreme Dangerfrom 52°C and beyond. In the extreme danger level, heat stroke is imminent. For the danger level, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely, and heat stroke is also probable with continued exposure, PAGASA added.
“I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its own ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal. And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement as of now,” he said in a statement last year.
Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio previously said the agreement was a “disguised surrender” of the country’s EEZ (exclusive economic zone) rights.
Meanwhile, House Deputy Majority Leader Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group rejected the advice of former Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez for the President to step down amid the WPS tensions, and to hand over the reins of government to Vice President Sara Duterte.
“Former Speaker (Pantaleon) Alvarez’s remarks are not only defeatist but dangerously naive. To suggest that President Marcos Jr. should resign in the face of aggression is to misunderstand the very essence of leadership and national sovereignty,” Acidre said.
“We must confront our challenges head-on, not by backing down, but by asserting our rightful place in the international community,” he said.
House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin urged Alvarez to focus on contributing to solutions rather than calling for the resignation of President Marcos.
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investors.
In a press conference, Garin said she believes a referendum would prompt voters to study what Charter change is about.
“If we hold a plebiscite next year, we will have eight months that all the people can talk about. It will now be a discussion at the table where the family is, in the house for family gettogethers, at reunions and various occasions, even at school,” she said.
“Awareness will increase. People will know about the subject before they vote. People will be able to decide intelligently,” Garin added. The plebiscite would also make voters learn more about the limits of the Constitution and their authority to approve or reject amendments, the Iloilo solon added.
A Pulse Asia poll showed that 88% of Filipinos are against amending the 1987 Constitution “right now,” a 43% increase from the 45% who were not in favor of such a move last year.
Garin, however, offered a positive assessment on Tuesday in response to a question about two adverse economic outlooks on the Philippines from foreign institutions.
Meanwhile, lawmakers who authored the proposed economic charter amendments stood firm in their conviction that constitutional reform is crucial for addressing societal needs and fostering economic development.
House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe of Zamboanga City, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga, and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon maintained the potential benefits of amending the restrictive economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution in the wake of the Pulse Asia survey.
Standard veteran photographer Revoli Cortez adeptly captures a ash of lightning during a thunderstorm over a shing
AFTER 30 years in the country’s political arena, 54-year old Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said he plans to retire from politics.
“To dispel any rumors that may arise, I would like to make it clear that I will not be running for any public office in 2028,” Zubiri said in a statement released on Monday.
“And I am in fact contemplating on my retirement from almost 30 years of politics,” the statement read.
Zubiri thanked Pulse Asia for including him in their last survey for the 2028 Vice Presidential race, which showed the Senate leader getting seven percent popularity.
“I would like to thank my kababayans from Mindanao and the Visayas for their support, making up 14 percent and 8 percent of my Pulse Asia numbers, respectively.”
“Rest assured that my last four years of service will be dedicated to uplifting the lives of every Filipino through meaningful legislation,” he added.
Zubiri related that whatever survey results showing positive reviews for him and for the Senate is a testament to the chamber’s “undying desire to render quality service to our people.”
THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) viewed the Holy Week observance in Metro Manila as generally peaceful and orderly, with no reports of any untoward incidents.
EIGHT persons posing as Department of Budget and Management (DBM) officials were arrested in an entrapment operation conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) last Mar. 26.
Initial report showed that one of the suspects introduced herself to the complainant as a DBM undersecretary, claiming that she could assist in releasing funds for government projects and that she was in charge of the agency’s special projects.
The suspects allegedly promised the complainant, a project contractor, access to P1.3 billion worth of government project if they agreed to their
conditions. The project was purportedly related to the construction of a dam funded by the DBM.
The suspects assured the complainant that the project would be awarded to her, but before that, they needed the contractor to come up with some amounts as “grease money” for the project’s “blue print” ostensibly needed for the processing of documents.
However, the contractor made some
verifications with the DBM, and found out there was no undersecretary with the name given to her by the poseurs, and that there was no such project in the agency’s records.
Subsequently, the DBM collaborated with the NBI to lay down the trap, and the suspects were eventually arrested at a restaurant in Mandaluyong City after receiving marked money amounting to P500,000 from an NBI operative.
“Mariin po nating kinokondena ang ganitong klaseng gawain. May proseso po tayong sinusunod na naaayon sa mga umiiral na batas (We strongly condemn this kind of activity. We have a process that we follow according to law),” Budget Secretary Amenah. Pangandaman said.
THE Department of Justice (DOJ) through the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has released 783 prisoners in simple ceremony on Monday at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.
“Your resilience and perseverance in life within the difficult walls of prison is a living testament that anyone who falls can rise even stronger, wiser and better,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in his remarks.
The affair dubbed “Pagpapalakas ng Programang Pang-Repormasyon Tungo sa Tagumpay at Panibagong Ambisyon” signals the second shot at freedom for the 783 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) for several years. President during the event were DOJ Undersecretary-in-charge for corrections cluster Deo Marco, Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) chief Persida Rueda-Acosta and Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP) chairman Sergio Calizo, and BuCor directorgeneral Gregorio Catapang, Jr. BuCor has administrative supervision and control over the New Bilibid Prison (NBP), the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW), Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DPPF), Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF) and other prison facilities.
As reported by the BuCor, the PDLs were freed under different modes such as acquittal, parole, conditional pardon, cash bond, bail bond, expiration of maximum sentence, good conduct), and other reasons.
“The release of these PDLs not only addresses congestion in our prison and other detention centers, but allows them to reintegrate to mainstream society,” Remulla said.
The Justice Secretary urged the PDLs never to turn back, and to “march forward with unwavering determination, you have a whole new lease on life.”
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized more than P43 billion worth of smuggled goods in 2023, viewed as a significant accomplishment since the value of the confiscated items surpassed the previous year’s record. Customs Commissioner Bienvenido
Rubio lauded the bureau’s Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) which celebrated its “36 years of service in safeguarding the nation’s borders, ensuring compliance with customs laws, and combating illicit trade activities.”
Rubio said that the ESS efforts to curb smuggling resulted in the P43.3-billion seizures in 2023.
“The BOC- ESS’s key role in seizing P43.30 billion worth of smuggled goods in 2023 alone, has showcased the agency’s effectiveness in combating illicit trade activities,” Rubio noted.
Established in 1988, the ESS has remained “steadfast in its mission to uphold the rule of law, combat smuggling, and protect our citizens and economy from illicit activities.”
Rubio said the ESS has been instrumental in implementing the Fuel Marking Program, a crucial initiative aimed at combating fuel smuggling.
“The ESS successfully marked a staggering 18.97 billion liters of fuel in 2023. This initiative has significantly contributed to curbing fuel smuggling, with P395.01 million worth of petroleum products and transport vehicles seized in the same year,” he added.
Citing his personal experience as a former special agent, Rubio highlighted the challenges inherent in security operations and stressed the importance of staying abreast of emerging technologies to effectively combat illicit activities.
By
Vince LopezTHE Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), have “once again displayed their true colors of terrorism,” the military said.
“We stand united in our resolve to decimate the remnants of the CPPNPA-NDF and ensure the safety and security of our nation,” said Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca, chief of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM).
However, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) declared they were committed to “eradicating these terrorist elements and safeguarding the lives and liberties of the Filipino people.”
He was reacting to a directive Marco Valbuena, CPP chief information officer, calling for ambushes and looting of firearms from government forces. This directive allegedly highlighted the insurgents’ their proclivity toward terrorism that pose a grave threat to national security. By endorsing such reprehensible tactics, they not only endanger the lives of our courageous troops but also instil fear and uncertainty among innocent civilians, the AFP said.
A MAGNITUDE 5.0 earthquake rocked Surigao del Sur at 5:16 a.m. Monday.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the tremor was an aftershock of a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Surigao del Sur in December 2023.
Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said the quake of tectonic origin had
The authorities noted that recent incidents serve as “stark reminders of the CPP-NPA-NDF’s terrorist activities.”
In Tubo, five Army soldiers lost their lives and eight seriously wounded on Feb. 1, 2010 after tripping on a landmine reportedly set up by NPA rebels.
In Maria Aurora, Aurora province, two soldiers were also killed and three others wounded in an attack by gunmen believed to be NPA rebels on Apr. 21, 2020.
THE Makati City government has filed a graft complaint against Taguig City Treasurer Voltaire Enriquez and two other individuals, Jessie Garcia and Erika Macaligtas, for violating the
Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service.
The complaint stems from the 11-month delay in the release of tax clearance documents by the Taguig Treasurer’s Office for three parcels of land purchased by Makati from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) at a cost of P146,503,273.
In a statement, Mayor Abigail Binay criticized Taguig’s “disregard for the law, harassment of employees, and charges of illegal detention and grave coercion.”
“Their obsession to grab properties owned by Makati seems to have com-
promised their judgement, public conduct, and sense of decency,” she said.
The complaint also highlighted the inordinate delay in securing the tax clearance and assessment for the payment of local transfer taxes.
The complaint stated that under the Taguig City’s Citizen’s Charter, it should only take three working days for individuals and five working days for corporations to process tax clearance.
Enriquez, Garcia, and Macaligtas are being charged with violating Section 3f of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which states:
“Neglecting or refusing, after due demand or request without sufficient justification, to act within a reasonable time on any matter pending before him for the purpose of obtaining, directly or indirectly, some pecuniary or material benefit or advantage, or for the purpose of favoring his own interest or giving undue advantage in favor of or discriminating against any other interested party.”
GOVERNMENT agents seized P212 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu in a parcel declared as “routers” at the Port of Clark, Pampanga.
Bureau
Joseph MuegoAnti-Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF), found the illegal drugs in a shipment that came from New Jersey, USA.
Based on intelligence reports, the contraband was subjected to an xray scanning and K9 sniffing and indicating the possible presence of prohibited drugs.
A physical examination was conducted which led to the findings of
29 packs of vacuum-sealed transparent plastic, which contained crystalline substances suspected to be shabu.
BOC District Collector Erastus Sandino B. Austria said the shipment was seized for violation of R.A. No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) in relation to R.A. No. 9165.
“This is the biggest drug apprehension of the Port of Clark in a single shipment since 2020,” Austria said.
The BOC vowed to heighten the country’s borders and will continue to coordinate with the PDEA and partner agencies to halt the entry of illegal drugs in the country as directed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
LOCAL government units (LGUs) will soon have to put up their own task force to regularly survey existing salt farming and processing enterprises as contained in Republic Act (RA) 11985 or the Philippine Industry Salt Development Act.
Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte also said this will help the national government identify areas appropriate for salt production in their respective localities.
Villafuerte, president of the National Unity Party and author of the law, said RA 11985 which was recently signed by President Marcos bestows upon LGUs a major role in “the fresh government effort to revitalize this moribund industry,
THE
toxic chemical banned in the manufacture of paints--in eight spray paints produced mostly in China.
The environmental watchdog group said it bought the paint products from local online dealers as part of its vigilant advocacy to promote business and industry compliance with the country’s ban on lead-containing paints as per DENR Administrative Order No. 2013-24.
Also known as the Chemical Control
Order (CCO) for lead and lead compounds, this landmark policy bans lead in excess of 90 parts per million (ppm) in all paints and directs the phase-out of lead-containing decorative paints from 2013 to 2016 and lead-containing industrial paints from 2013 to 2019.
As confirmed through laboratory tests performed by SGS Taiwan, the paints submitted by the EcoWaste Coalition for confirmatory analyses contained lead in the range of 952 ppm to 31,800 ppm, way above the 90 ppm limit.
The orange red, lemon yellow, grass
THE Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) on Monday lauded the importance of a partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to help persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) return to normal life.
PAO chief Persida Rueda-Acosta graced the joint flag ceremony with officials and personnel of BJMP’s National Jail Management and Penology Training Institute (NJMPTI) in Camp Vicente Lim in Calamba City, Laguna as the guest of honor and speaker.
She told NJMPTI director Senior Supt. Ronaldo Senior that the key role of the jail personnel’s training school is contributing to the interest and wellbeing of PDLs. “This institute is the vital instrument in honing jail officers who do not only serve as custodians of PDLs but as rehabilitation officers at the same time,” she said.
While the jail officers should ensure the safety of PDLs while in their custody as mandated by law, “they must be the first to rejoice when they know that a PDL is freed to return to normal life,” she noted.
green, leaf green and deep yellow variants of Veslee Paint Aerosol were found to contain 11,100 ppm, 11,100 ppm, 22,100 ppm, 22,200 ppm and 31,800 ppm of lead, respectively. These paints were manufactured by Guangdong Veslee Chemical Science and Technology Co. Ltd. as shown on the label.
The grass green Yatibay Acrylic Spray Paint contained 952 ppm of lead, while its deep yellow variant had 6,960 ppm. The product label provided no information about its manufacturer and/or distributor.
The eight product, a grass green RMC
Spray Paint produced by Supcon Chemical Enterprise Ltd., tested with 13,200 ppm of lead.According to a fact sheet prepared by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint (or the Lead Paint Alliance), “lead is a multisystem toxicant for which no safe level of exposure has been identified. One major source of exposure, particularly for children, is through lead paint, or paint to which lead compounds have been added as pigments, drying agents or anti-corrosives.”
Calamba Medical Center cited for tuberculosis program in Healthcare Asia Awards 2024
By Roy TomandaoTHE Calamba Medical Center’s (CMC) tuberculosis program has garnered international recognition in the recently held Healthcare Asia Awards 2024 held in Singapore. CMC said this accolade “serves as a
testament to the hospital’s unwavering commitment to combatting this infectious disease and improving the health and well-being of its community.”
The CMC’s anti-tuberculosis initiative, called Dayang Masalanta Award, received the “Disease Prevention Initiative of the Year.”
The institution said this is a validation of its “dedication and effectiveness in addressing the challenges posed by tuberculosis.”
Representing CMC during the awards night were Dr. Rhodora Ocampo, chief medical officer; Florencio Tenorio, chief finance officer; and Dr.
Mark Kristoff Pasayan, department chair of the CMC Disease Prevention and Control Center. As CMC celebrates this international recognition, it reaffirms its commitment to advancing healthcare services and making a positive impact on the health of individuals and communities.
in a bid to bail out its farmers, reverse anemic production and eventually turn this nutrient into an export earner.”
He said that RA11985 mandates LGUs to put up their own Salt Industry Development Task Forces (Salt Task Forces) that shall regularly conduct a survey of existing salt farms and salt processing enterprises in their respective localities, “in support of the proposed five-year masterplan to expand areas devoted to salt-making, boost domestic salt output, promote investments in this sector and market Philippine products made from this essential nutrient.”
This law states that in cooperation with five government agencies, the LGUs shall identify appropriate areas for local salt production in their respective localities, Villafuerte said.
THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will issue notices of violation against two private contractors of a telecommunication company for unfinished roadworks along EDSA during Holy Week.
The said roadworks caused traffic in the area, the MMDA said. HGC Global Communications and RLink Corporation, private contractors of Globe Telecom, were working on the underground installation of fiber optic cable along the southbound portion of EDSA.
The contractors failed to comply with the conditions set by MMDA that road works should have been finished, cleared, and passable to all motorists by 5 a.m. of April 1. MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said out of the 40 manholes, 24 were left uncovered and no traffic marshals were seen on the road to at least man the traffic.
“As a result, the public mistakenly thought that those were MMDA and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects because they used the traffic cones and barriers of the agency,” Artes explained.
The two firms will be fined P50,000 per digging, per day based on MMDA Regulation No. 23-001, series of 2023.
The MMDA and DPWH will pour cement on open diggings so that the roads will be passable.
The MMDA is studying the possibility of banning the two private contractors of Globe Telecom from applying for excavation permits.
THE spate of killings in Davao City after Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte declared war on illegal drugs is reminiscent of the so-called infamous “Death Squad,” when Rodrigo Duterte, former President, was then mayor of the city.
What is happening in Davao City after now Mayor “Baste” Duterte declared war on illegal drugs with the spate of killings of alleged drug pushers may not be “death squads,” but why, Santa Banana, is there a sudden spate of killings?
The police claimed the killings were the result of shootouts when the alleged illegal drugs pushers shot back at the police! Isn’t this a familiar claim?
In the first place, the police should be aware of the existence of criminals in their jurisdiction.
At this point, I am reminded of what my late good friend Jimmy Barbers used to say, “ The police know everything happening in a place they control.”
Taking care of the sick and elderly is something very Filipino, and I am grateful to God for myself and my wife being Filipinos
Truly it would be a stupid policeman who does not know what is happening in his territory, my gulay!
The mayor should not be faulted for declaring war on illegal drugs. He must have gotten it from his father.
But, isn’t it the normal thing to do for a police force to restore peace and order, including getting rid of pushers of illegal drugs?
Why, Santa Banana, declare war on illegal drugs?
The very fact that several members of the Davao City police force have been relieved and are being investigated for the spate of killings raises a lot of questions like, why the spate of
killings in Davao City after its mayor declared war on illegal drugs?
This demands a serious investigation of another war on drugs by a Duterte.
We had enough of EJK killings in the six-year incumbency of the former president.
Santa Banana, I hate to imagine a city mayor declaring war on illegal drugs and all the members of the police force killing suspected pushers, my gulay!
Caring for the Sick, Elderly
There’s one thing about Filipino families I admire. Normally, that is.
When the aged or the elderly, like parents, get sick, and if the family doesn’t have the means to have them hospitalized, the family takes care of them.
This is typically Asian, when parents get old, a member of the family, like a daughter, is chosen to take care of them, unlike in the West, particularly the United States, when parents age or become elderly.
The parents or the elderly are usually taken to a “home for the aged’’ or to a senior citizens facility.
I once asked my son who is an American citizen and living with his wife and family where he and wife will go when they become elderly.
He told me he and his wife expect to go to a retirement home because their children won’t be able to take care of them, unlike in the Philippines, where it is quite easy to hire caregivers for those who can afford.
And if they do not have caregivers, members of the family usually take turns to care for them.
My wife and I, at age 92 and myself at almost 97, are now living with my daughter, but we have caregivers.
There are now quite a few homes for the aged in the Philippines, but not yet enough.
Taking care of the sick and elderly is something very Filipino, and I am grateful to God for myself and my wife being Filipinos.
It is for this reason why lawmakers should make it a priority to provide more benefits for seniors and elderly.
More power to them. I am still healthy and sound, and so is my wife, but, at our age, we need caring. Thank God, we are Filipinos!
Germany gives controversial green light to cannabis
BERLIN – Germany on Monday became the biggest EU country to legalize recreational cannabis, despite fierce objections from opposition politicians and medical associations.
Under the first step in the much-debated new law, adults over 18 are now allowed to carry 25 grams of dried cannabis and cultivate up to three marijuana plants at home.
The changes leave Germany with some of the most liberal cannabis laws in Europe, alongside Malta and Luxembourg, which legalized recreational use in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
The Netherlands, known for its permissive attitude to the drug, has in recent years taken a stricter approach to counter cannabis tourism.
As the law took effect at midnight, hundreds of people cheered by Berlin’s iconic Brandenbrug Gate, many of them by lighting up joints in what one participant, a very happy 25-yearold Niyazi, called “a bit of extra freedom.”
As the next step in the legal reform, from July 1 it will be possible to legally obtain weed through “cannabis clubs” in the country.
These regulated associations will be allowed to have up to 500 members each, and will be able to distribute up to 50 grams of cannabis per person per month.
Until then, “consumers must not tell the police where they bought their cannabis” in the event of a street check, Georg Wurth, director of the German Cannabis Association, told AFP.
Initial plans for cannabis to be sold via licensed shops have been ditched due to EU opposition, though a second law is in the pipeline to trial the sale of the drug in shops in pilot regions.
The German government, a threeway coalition led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats, argues that legalization will help contain the growing black market for the popular substance.
Another potential issue is that the law will retroactively declare an amnesty for cannabisrelated offenses, creating an administrative headache for the legal system
But health groups have raised concerns that legalization could lead to an increase in use among young people, who face the highest health risks.
Cannabis use among young people can affect the development of the central nervous system, leading to an increased risk of developing psychosis and schizophrenia, experts have warned.
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has sent an unequivocal message to the country’s giant northern neighbor China when the 66-year-old leader said the Philippines will not be bullied into silence.
In his statement the other day, President Marcos said “We seek no conflict with any nation, more so nations that purport and claim to be our friends, but we will not be cowed into silence, submission, or subservience. Filipinos do not yield.”
His statement came after the China Coast Guard again blocked and fired water cannons at a Filipino supply vessel last weekend, damaging the vessel and injuring three soldiers.
We understand from the President the government will implement a “response and counter-measure package that is proportionate, deliberate, and reasonable in the face of the open, unabating, and illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks by agents of the China Coast Guard and the Chinese maritime militia.”
The President has been in “constant communication” with interna-
tional allies and partners who offered to help the Philippines in protecting and securing its sovereign rights and jurisdiction while ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.” Manila has given its allies its re-
We know our allies are watching developments in the area which has been described as a flashpoint in the region
quirements and has been assured these requirements will be addressed before too long. At the same time, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III once again reaffirmed Washington’s “ironclad” commitment to Manila in a phone call with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro. It is incredulous that China has the undisguised conceit when it blamed the Philippines for “provocations” as the cause of rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea, which is within the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone. A Chinese defense ministry statement said “China will not allow the Philippines to do whatever it wants,
IN THE midst of relentless Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has declared with fervor that Filipinos will not cower, bow, or yield to the blatant and outrageous acts perpetrated by China’s expansionist agenda.
With each provocation, each assault on our sovereignty, and each attack on our brave sailors, the resolve of the Filipino people only grows stronger.
In his resolute address, Marcos denounced China’s “open, unabating, and illegal, coercive, aggressive, and dangerous attacks” for what they truly are – acts of bullying and intimidation aimed at subjugating a nation that refuses to bend to the will of a tyrant.
His words reverberate with defiance, echoing the sentiments of a nation unwilling to surrender its dignity in the face of relentless aggression.
The recent attack on a Philippine vessel en route to Ayungin Shoal stands as a stark reminder of China’s brazen disregard for international law and basic decency.
Three Navy personnel injured, their sacrifice serving as a testament to the courage of those who stand guard against the encroaching threat.
Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Marcos has rallied the nation, refusing to be swayed by the specter of fear.
He has sought support from allies and partners in the international community, drawing upon the collective strength of those who share our commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“From our point of view, the law as it is written is a disaster,” Katja Seidel, a therapist at a cannabis addiction centre for young people in Berlin, told AFP.
Even Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, a doctor, has said that cannabis consumption can be “dangerous”, especially for young people.
The government has promised a widespread information campaign to raise awareness of the risks and to boost support programs.
It has also stressed that cannabis will remain banned for under-18s and within 100 metres of schools, kinder-
and has responded in a reasonable and forceful manner.”
We are behind the Philippines Department of National Defense when it said the Chinese defense ministry statement “clearly reflects their isolation from the rest of the world on their illegal and uncivilized activities in the West Philippine Sea.”
It is true that such statement demonstrated China’s inability, in the words of the DND, “to conduct open, transparent and legal negotiations (and) their repertoire consists only of patronizing and, failing that, intimidating smaller countries.”
“We do not yield. We are Filipinos.”
The National Defense College Alumni Association also denounced the China Coast Guard’s use of water cannons against Philippine vessels.
“Clearly, its rogue actions that spring from its ‘might is right doctrine’ have become a menace to regional peace and amity,” the group said.
We support as well the group, which said it was standing by the government’s resolve not to yield to China’s unprovoked attack inside Philippine territory, was correct in saying “Intimidation and uncivilized acts are now part of China’s global brand, with its Coast Guard as its leading endorser.”
We know our allies are watching developments in the area which has been described as a flashpoint in the region.
But make no mistake – the path ahead is fraught with peril.
The Philippines finds itself at a crossroads, forced to confront the harsh reality of an adversary hell-bent on domination.
The challenges facing Marcos and his administration are immense, as they grapple with the daunting task of formulating a response that balances strength with restraint, resolve with diplomacy.
The Filipino people stand united behind their President, ready to confront the threat posed by China’s unchecked aggression.
The time has come to assert our rights, to defend our territory, and to send a clear message to Beijing that we will not be intimidated into submission
It is a moment of reckoning, a test of our nation’s resolve in the face of adversity. The time for complacency has passed; now is the time for action.
In the face of unrelenting aggression, the Philippines must escalate its response to China’s provocations. No longer can we afford to stand idly
gartens and playgrounds.
The law has also led to criticism from police, who fear it will be difficult to enforce.
“From April 1, our colleagues will find themselves in situations of conflict with citizens, as uncertainty reigns on both sides,” said Alexander Poitz, vice-president of the GdP police union.
Another potential issue is that the law will retroactively declare an amnesty for cannabis-related offenses, creating an administrative headache for the legal system.
According to the German Judges’
by as our sovereignty is trampled upon by an imperialist regime.
The time has come to assert our rights, to defend our territory, and to send a clear message to Beijing that we will not be intimidated into submission.
Negotiations must be pursued, yes, but from a position of strength – a strength born from the unwavering determination of a nation united in its resolve to defend what is rightfully ours.
We must demand accountability from those who seek to undermine our sovereignty, holding them to account for their reckless actions on the world stage.
Above all, we must strive for peace and stability in the South China Sea, for the sake of our people and the generations that will follow.
But let it be known – peace cannot be achieved through appeasement, nor stability through capitulation.
It is only through unwavering resolve and steadfast determination that we will secure a future free from the specter of Chinese aggression.
In this pivotal moment in our nation’s history, let us stand shoulder to shoulder, united in our determination to defend our sovereignty and protect our way of life.
The time for action is now; the time for Filipinos to rally behind their President and their country is at hand.
Together, we will overcome the challenges that lie ahead, and together, we will emerge stronger than ever before.
For in the face of adversity, it is the strength of the Filipino spirit that will ultimately prevail.
Association, the pardon could apply to more than 200,000 cases that would need to be checked and processed.
Conservative opposition leader Friedrich Merz has said he would “immediately” repeal the law if he and his party formed a government following nationwide elections in 2025.
But Finance Minister Christian Lindner, from the liberal FDP, said legalization was a “responsible” move that was better than “directing people to the black market”.
The new law “will not lead to chaos,” Lindner told public broadcaster ARD. AFP
TAIPEI – Taiwan’s former president Ma Ying-jeou headed to China on Monday for what he called a “journey of peace” aimed at cooling cross-strait tensions.
China claims democratic Taiwan as part of its territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the selfruled island under its control.
Ma, of the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang party, oversaw an improvement in cross-strait ties during his 20082016 stint in office, culminating in a summit between him and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Singapore in 2015.
But China has intensified pressure on Taipei ever since Ma was succeeded in 2016 by Tsai Ing-wen, who rejects Beijing’s claim to the island.
Tensions have further risen since January, when Tsai’s deputy Lai Ching-te -- whom Beijing regards as a “dangerous separatist” -- was elected to succeed her.
Speaking to reporters at the airport before his departure, Ma described his trip to China as “a journey of peace and a journey of friendship”.
“I hope that when the situation across the Taiwan Strait is tense, we can convey the sentiments of the Taiwanese people that they love peace, hope for cross-strait exchanges and hope to avoid war,” he said.
Ma added that he aimed to promote youth exchanges and to “reduce hostility and accumulate goodwill”.
Outside the airport, a handful of demonstrators protested against the visit, urging Ma “not to sell out Taiwan”.
Last year, Ma made the first visit to China by a current or former Taiwanese leader in more than seven decades in a bid to improve the “cross-strait atmosphere”. AFP
Israeli army
PALESTINIAN Territories – The Hamasrun health ministry in Gaza said Monday the Israeli military had withdrawn tanks and vehicles from the complex housing the besieged territory’s main hospital, Al-Shifa, days after the launch of a major operation on the site.
The ministry said dozens of bodies had been found at the complex, where an AFP journalist and eyewitnesses saw tanks and vehicles pulling out.
The Israeli military did not immediately confirm any pullout.
Eyewitnesses said dozens of air strikes and shells had hit the area around the complex.
The Hamas government media office said the Israeli air strikes had provided cover for the withdrawing vehicles.
The army launched its operation on March 18 and has described it as a “precise” one targeting Hamas militants it accused of operating from the complex.
It has previously said 200 militants had been killed in fighting in and around Al-Shifa.
The army has also released footage it claimed showed weapons and money seized from the hospital that had been used by Hamas and another militant group, Islamic Jihad.
Hamas has denied operating from Al-Shifa and other health facilities.
“Dozens of bodies, some of them decomposed, have been recovered from in and around the Al-Shifa medical complex,” the health ministry said in a statement. AFP
France to China: Send ‘clear message’ to Russia over Ukraine war
BEIJING – France’s top diplomat said Monday Paris expects Beijing to send “clear messages” to its close partner Russia over its war in Ukraine, after meetings with his counterpart in Beijing.
France and China have sought to strengthen ties in recent years and, during meetings in Paris in February, Chinese
Foreign Minister Wang Yi told President Emmanuel Macron that Beijing appreciated his country’s “independent” stance.
But Paris has also sought to press Beijing on its close ties with Moscow, with Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne saying it wanted “China to send very clear messages to Russia” over its war in Ukraine.
“We are convinced that there will be no lasting peace if it is not negotiated with the Ukrainians,” he told a press conference in Beijing, speaking alongside his Chinese counterpart Wang.
“There will be no security for Europeans if there is no peace in accordance with international law,” he continued.
And China, he said, could play a “key role” in ensuring respect for international law is maintained. Sejourne’s visit is the second to China by a French foreign minister in less than six months, following a trip by his predecessor, Catherine Colonna, in November. AFP
On Monday, he said that trip “proved
S. Korean president Yoon slams doctor ‘cartel’ as strike drags on
SEOUL – South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Monday slammed the “cartel” of medics who oppose sector reforms, saying the government would not back down on plans that have triggered a month-long doctors’ strike. Hospitals have been forced to cancel crucial treatments and surgeries since thousands of trainee doctors stopped working February 20 to protest against proposed training reforms, but the government has not changed tack, instead threatening striking medics with legal action.
Seoul wants to increase medical school admissions by 2,000 starting next year, saying it is essential to combat shortages and treat a fast-aging society. Doctors say it will erode service quality.
“The number 2,000 is not a random figure we came up with. We have thoroughly reviewed relevant statistics and research and reviewed present and future medical situations,” Yoon said in a televised national address.
Even this increase will not meet growing demand in areas outside the capital Seoul, he said.
Thousands of doctors are facing the suspension of their medical licences, but Yoon urged medics to return to their hospitals before the process was complete.
Successive South Korean governments have tried -- and failed -- to increase medical school admissions in the past, and Yoon said “the cartel of doctors had been strengthened” by every previous failure. AFP
Iranian persecution of Bahais minority ‘crime vs. humanity’
PARIS, France – Human Rights Watch said on Monday the Iranian authorities’ persecution of the Bahai minority since the Islamic revolution of 1979 constitutes a crime against humanity.
The New York-based group said that the Bahais, Iran’s largest nonMuslim minority, faced repression including arbitrary arrest, property confiscation, restrictions on school and job opportunities, and even the right to a dignified burial.
“The cumulative impact of authorities’ decades-long systematic repression is an intentional and severe deprivation of Bahais’ fundamental rights and amounts to the crime against humanity of persecution,” HRW said.
It argued that this fell within the scope of the International Criminal Court (ICC) whose statute defines persecution as the intentional and severe deprivation of fundamental rights contrary to international law on national, religious or ethnic grounds.
HRW said that while the intensity of violations against Bahais “has varied over time”, the persecution of the community has remained constant, “impacting virtually every aspect of Bahais’ private and public lives”.
It said the Islamic republic holds “extreme animus against adherents of the Bahai faith” and repression of the minority was enshrined in Iranian law and is official government policy. AFP
opponents at the resumption of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City Tuesday. Both teams are riding high from their straight-set victories over separate rivals before the break and are looking to solidify their semifinal aspirations.
The Flying Titans, after dominating the Akari Chargers, are tipped to overcome the Galeries Tower Highrisers, while the High Speed Hitters are bracing for a tough match against the Chargers, making for a thrilling contest as both teams chase crucial wins to bolster their standings in the season-opening conference of the league organized by Sports Vision. Choco Mucho and PLDT tote identical 5-1 (win-loss) slates, closely trailing behind Creamline’s 6-1 mark after the Cool Smashers’ hard-fought victory over the Cignal HD Spikers last March 26.
Powered by MVP Sisi Rondina and Kat Tolentino, the Flying Titans
NEWLY-CROWNED World Boxing Council minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem leads a packed and rare three-part session of the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday (April 2) at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. Jerusalem will be with Sanman Promotions CEO JC Mananquil and the rest of the team that just came from Nagoya, Japan where the 30-year-old fighter wrested the 105lbs version of the WBC after a win by split decision over dethroned champion and hometown bet Yudai Shigeoka.
Joining the two-time world champion in the 10 a.m. session are PSC Commissioner Fritz Gaston and representatives from the coming HOKA Trilogy Run Asia.
Gaston, appearing for the first time in the Forum presented by San Miguel Corporation, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee, PLDT/Smart, MILO, and ArenaPlus, the leading sports entertainment gateway in the Philippines, is going to discuss his project Indigenous Peoples (IP) Games, while Runrio Events Manager Kamille May Atienza along with a HOKA representative are talking about the three-leg run series that kicks off over the weekend at the Mall of Asia Complex.
PSA president Nelson Beltran, sports editor of The Philippine Star, enjoins members and officials to attend the session that is being livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, which likewise shares the link to its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2 sports
mix it up with the Hightowers at 6 p.m. with the latter, spearheaded by Gracielle Bombita and Audrey Paran, likewise keen on leveraging their own momentum following a decisive win over the Strong’ Group Athletics.
Galeries Tower coach Lerma Giron has highlighted their focus on addressing the team’s needs and making the necessary adjustments, which has paid off as the team improved to 2-4 following their strong performance against the Athletics. Bombita, pivotal in their recent success, is determined to keep her momentum going and rally her team against the formidable Fyling Titans, drawing strength from her teammates and coaches’ support and belief in their strategy.
Meanwhile, PLDT coach Rald Ricafort is banking on standout performances from Savi Davison, Majoy Baron, Fiola Ceballos and Erika Santos as they face a more daunting challenge against the Chargers, featuring key players like Faith Nisperos, Grethcel Soltones, Dindin Manabat and Janine Marciano in the 4 p.m. match.
PARIS—French swimmer Caroline Jouisse has been keeping track of her periods using her phone over the last year, collecting information for her coaches ahead of competing in the Paris Olympics this summer.
The data helps her plan the best time to work on building her muscles, which is ideally in the middle and at the end of her menstrual cycle when her testosterone levels are at their highest.
“It’s important to know when my testosterone peaks are, because that is when you feel your best and will be at your strongest in training,” said the 29-year-old, who will compete in the 10-kilometre open water event at the Paris Games.
Research in sport focuses overwhelmingly on male athletes, and the effect menstrual cycles have on athletic performance remains under-studied.
Hoping to address this gap, France’s National Institute of Sport (INSEP) launched a program called Empow’her in 2020 to track and learn from the menstrual cycles of athletes.
“There is no need to be embarrassed about your cycle—it is part of performance, just like nutrition or training,” said INSEP gynecologist Carole Maitre. Lack of research
For six months last year, Jouisse’s training sessions were analysed daily. Her hormonal, cardiac and psychological data was then compared to the different stages of her menstrual cycle.
“Before starting the program, I was not aware that there were all these phases,” said Jouisse, who is currently doing 10 swimming and three weight training sessions every week.
French cross-country skier Juliette Ducordeau said the Empow’her program helped her understand her body better, as well as identify “quite impressive trends” in her performance.
“The optimal times for my training sessions are during the ovulation phase, from the first to the 15th day of the cycle,” the 25-year-old said.
The last few days were more laborious, she added. Since launching in 2020, 130 French sportswomen have participated in Empow’her, which hopes to help fill in significant gaps in scientific research about the female body. The head of the program, Juliana Antero, said that just nine percent of sports science studies published in the last five years were about women -- compared to 71 percent for men.
“There are very few high-quality studies, so for the moment there is no consensus on the impact menstrual cycles have on sports performance,” Antero said.
While the symptoms -- such as headaches and pain -- were relatively similar, how intense they were and how long they lasted can vary significantly between different athletes, she said.
A 2021 UK study conducted on elite
female footballers found that around 90 percent suffered from fatigue and loss of power during menstruation.
Two thirds said their confidence and focus were affected, while 13 percent missed training or matches, according to the study led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London. Period tracking hit the headlines in 2019, when the United States women’s football team credited it with helping players train for their victorious World Cup campaign.
Male coaches ‘embarrassed’But change has been slow.
Alpine skier Clara Direz, a former Empow’her participant, said that her mostly male coaches are still “embarrassed to talk about menstrual cycles —and don’t show much interest”.
“It is important to raise awareness among athletes—but first and most importantly we need to raise awareness among coaches,” Jouisse, the swimmer, said.
Talking about periods remains “taboo” in her sport, she added. AFP
MIAMI — Jannik Sinner’s third victory of the year, at the Miami Open on Sunday, will lift the Italian to number two in the world and has convinced his coach, Darren Cahill, that tennis is set for years of exciting battles at the top.
Roger Federer has retired, Rafael Nadal is battling with injuries and 36-year-old Novak Djokovic is entering the twilight of his career but Cahill, the Australian former coach of Andre Agassi, believes 22-year-old Sinner’s rivalry with Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz ensures a bright future for the sport.
“He’s getting to play a sport that he loves and do it at the highest order -- and he’s loving every piece of his life at the moment. So he appreciates every single moment that is happening to him,” Cahill told reporters after Sinner’s straight sets win over Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov in the final at Hard Rock Stadium.
“But he has also got his feet on the ground,
MILO executive awarded for contributions to PH grassroots sports
is among this year’s Women In Sports Lifetime Achievement Awardees.
The recently-concluded Women in Sports Awards, held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, has awarded MILO® Philippines’ Veronica Cruz, Senior Vice President and Business Executive Officer of Nestlé Philippines, Inc. with a special citation and recognition for the support of grassroots sports in the Philippines.
Cruz’s accolade stands as a testament to her exceptional leadership and tireless dedication to making sports accessible to all Filipinos. Through the dynamic sports programs spearheaded by MILO® under the MILO® Active Pilipinas campaign, Cruz and her team at MILO® have championed a movement aimed at empowering young individuals and communities to accelerate their life journeys and become successful through sports. “It is with deepest pride and honor that our efforts towards grassroots sports are being recognized by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Commission on Women,” said Cruz. “This further reinforces our commitment to providing opportunities and nurturing the champion journeys of every Filipino through the sports programs MILO® offers.”
The MILO® Active Pilipinas campaign offers a diverse array of on-ground and online sports initiatives designed to inspire Filipino families to embrace an active lifestyle. Its flagship programs such as the National MILO Marathon, MILO Sports Clinics, Barangay MILO Liga, and MILO Champ Camp have collectively engaged millions of young Filipinos nationwide. These initiatives not only fuel the physical growth of participants but also instill valuable life skills and support their journey toward success.
“We remain steadfast in our dedication to the holistic development of Filipino youth,” Cruz said. “Through continued collaboration, we aim to empower the next generation of champions, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive both on and off the field.”
knowing it’s just a sport. It’s just a tennis match. And beyond this, whilst he’s professional in everything he does, he enjoys his life.
He’s a normal 22-year-old kid.
“So there’s a lot to learn from him, a lot of good to learn from both him and Carlos. I think they’re very similar in many meaningful ways and that’s why I think tennis is in great hands at the moment with the likes of those two and many other players coming through that are going to carry the torch through a generation that we’ve been so fortunate to sit through the last 20 years.
“It is important to have these types of sports people coming through.”
Cahill, who coached Australian former world number one Lleyton Hewitt and worked with Andy Murray, says that while the future looks bright, it would be wrong to make comparisons between Sinner and Alcaraz and the previous generation. AFP
TUESDAY, APRIL 2, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARDHILARIO, Asst. Editor
REBUILDING the Philippine national men’s football team will continue following its 0-5 loss to Iraq in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian Qualifying encounter last week at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Coach Tom Saintfiet said he will now seek out the inclusion of Europebased players in the squad in the coming months.
“We can develop the team on this path. We have been in contact with a lot of foreign-based play at a high level,” said Saintfiet.
This includes Gerrit Holtmann, a FilGerman winger for Bundesliga club Darmstadt 98, who is on loan from VfL Bochum.
There’s also 21-year-old Sandro Reyes,
who played in the national youth team before recently becoming an attacking midfielder for Regionalliga Bayern club Greuther Fürth II in Germany.
Efforts to seek out Denmark-born Sebastian Rasmussen are also in the works.
The Denmark-born Rasmussen, who plays as a forward for Danish 1st Division club Hobro, has seen action for the Philippines thrice in the past.
Saintfiet felt that there were a lot of courageous players in their encounter with Iraq.
For one,
EVEN Stamp Fairtex would admit that a lot has changed since she and Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga were together at the Fairtex Gym.
And as they step inside the ONE Circle against each other in the main event of ONE 167: Stamp vs. Zamboanga at Impact Arena in Bangkok on June 8, she knows that their friendship must take a step back.
“I feel like it’s a bit difficult because I feel like I know her but also consider again, she also had changed and improved a lot the past few years,” said the reigning ONE Women’s Atomweight MMA World Champion.
Truly, Zamboanga is a different beast now, grizzled by her time training with Marrok Force Gym and now with her brother’s T-Rex MMA Gym.
These are what keeps Stamp on her toes, knowing that like any other opponent, she can’t take the Filipina contender lightly even though they consider themselves as friends.
“I feel like I just have to be careful in terms of thinking that I know her. Her style was not the same when she was training with me anymore,” she stated.
“It’s the same with all the opponents that I had. I will have to study her style and prepare for the counters.”
Now, it’s all business for Stamp in the leadup to their collision. After all, all is fair in love and war.
“I feel like I just have to put the friendship behind and I don’t feel anything in particular because we are both professionals and we just have to do our job the best we could,” she said. “She wants my belt and I want to defend it so I just have to continue doing my job in defending my belt.”
After the fight, however, it’s a different story.
with the ball soaring across the face of goalie Jalal Hassan. Rublico, who plays for Athletico Madrid, had his second chance in the first half when he received a pass on the left, wove past a defender, and tried to go for a powerful shot into the right corner, but Ali Jasim Elaibi deflected it.
“We tried to play more football and have more possession. There’s Rublico who had two good chances with shots, and lots other players like Gayoso, coming in with goals,” said Saintfiet. With their fourth straight win in Group F, Iraq coasted to the third round of preliminaries for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Philippines now has a 0-1-3 win-draw-loss record at the bottom of the standings. Team Pilipinas will be back on June 6, for a home game with Vietnam, while Iraq plays on the same day, against the visiting Indonesian side.
“We have to go to shabu-shabu together,” she said.
By Dennis Abrina
THREE-PEAT champions University of Perpetual Help Altas Men’s Spikers remain the title favorites in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 volleyball tournament, kicking off on April 7 at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in Barangay Corazon De Jesus, San Juan City. The Altas men’s volleyball team of multi-titled head coach Sinfronio ‘Sammy’ Acaylar are seeking a fourth consecutive men’s volleyball title as they parade an intact roster, led by reigning MVP Louie Ramirez, Michael Medalla, KC Andrade, Jeff Marapoc, JC Enarciso and Philip Pepito. “It’s very hard to prepare because we are defending champions, all eyes are on us. Only one player ang nag-graduate, si Joshua Zareño, so mostly intact ang lineup ko,” said Acaylar.
“So far, maganda naman ang pre-season namin, for the tuneups. Maybe, alignment na lang sa mental toughness nila ang dinidevelop ko. Kapag nauunahan sila, sometimes nawawala sa focus sa laro,” Acaylar added. Joining the team are rookies Klint Mateo, Dexter Arrozado, John Castil, Christian Taytayon and James Pascua
The core of the championship team wants to duplicate the title run from 2010 to 2014, making the Altas one of winningest teams under Acaylar with 13 titles, same with Letran.
The Altas annexed their third consecutive men’s volleyball tournament crown last year by defeating the San Beda University Red Lions in their best-of-three championship series.
Meanwhile, the Lady Altas of head coach Sandy Rieta are eyeing a good start for this season following her team’s good pre-season.
THE Philippine Golf Tour gears up for another sapirited, rousing clash as it heads to the scenic Caliraya Springs Golf Club for the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship unfolding on April 9 in Cavinti, Laguna.
The circuit has already seen a dynamic start to the season with different champions claiming victory in the first two legs at Apo and Palos Verdes in Davao, adding an element of unpredictability to the upcoming P2.5 million tournament.
Tony Lascuña showcased his enduring prowess to post a wireto-wire triumph at the challenging mountain-top course last year. The 53-year-old campaigner has remained a formidable contender, securing a tie for third at the seasonopening Apo Golf Classic, followed by a joint 10th place finish at the Palos Verdes Championship.
The Tour’s only four-time Order of Merit winner, Lascuña is fueled by a relentless desire to climb back to the top, despite facing stiff competition from both veteran campaigners and emerging talents.
The season has already witnessed Jhonnel Ababa’s thrilling sudden death win over Guido van der Valk at Apo, and Lloyd Go breaking a four-year drought for his maiden PGT victory at Palos Verdes.
But while Ababa found challenges in maintaining his form, van der Valk has emerged as a model of consistency, securing runner-up positions in both tournaments thus far.
Meanwhile, Caliraya Springs, set 1,200 feet above sea level, presents a unique challenge with its undulating terrain and tricky surface, leveling the playing field for the competitors.
Lascuña, however, expressed optimism about his chances of repeating last year’s dominant performance despite a recent battle with illness during his play at Palos Verdes.
The amiable shotmaker, who balances his time between competing and coaching at Manila Southwoods, remains dedicated to his practice regimen.
LOS ANGELES—Germany’s Stephan Jaeger held off world number one Scottie Scheffler down the stretch to win his first US PGA Tour title on Sunday at the Houston Open.
Jaeger took the solo lead at 12-under with his fourth birdie of the day at the ninth, then parred all nine holes on the back nine to emerge with the victory on 12-under 268.
“It feels amazing,” Jaeger said. “I couldn’t have dreamed up a better week to do it.
“Obviously playing Scottie last couple days, he’s been on a tear, so to kind of slay the dragon a little bit this week was amazing.
“He’s such a good dude, such a good player, I was just happy to play with him a couple days.”
The Lady Altas placed 3rd with an intact line up in Season 98, thanks to MVP Mary Rhose Dapol and Best Libero Marian Andal as they look to enter the semis round again this year.
The Dr. Antonio Tamayo-owned Lady Altas team, which won the 1st Maharlika Pilipinas Volleyball Association last December 2023 under the Bacoor Strikers’ banner, will be carrying the momentum of this feat in the NCAA.
Kawiteño coach Rieta will again parade graduating senior players team captain Razel Aldea, Mary Rhose Dapol, Bebang Ocado, Krisha Cordero with Andal, Winnie Bedaña Charisse Enrico, Shaila Omipon and setter Jhasmine Sapin. Rieta also added rookie recruits Micay Mindanao, Cyrille Almeniana, Fianne Ariola, Daizerlyn Uy, Nicollete Gaa and Camille Bustamante to the team.
Scheffler, playing in the last group with Jaeger, responded to a bogey at the demanding par-three 15th with a birdie at 16, but he missed a fiveand-a-half-foot birdie putt at 18 that would have forced a playoff. He settled for a two-under par 68 that put him in a five-way tie for second alongside Taylor Moore, Tony Finau, Belgian Thomas Detry and Argentina’s Alejandro Tosti. Tosti was 12-under after a birdie at 16, but closed with a bogey at 18. Jaeger, ranked 71st in the world and chasing a first tour title in his 135th start, was part of a five-way tie for the lead to start the day. After a five-foot birdie at the third, he rolled in a 23-foot birdie putt from the fringe at the fourth to maintain a share of the lead.
Gov’t incurred P164.7-b budget deficit in
THE government’s budget deficit widened to P164.7 billion in February 2024 from P106.4 billion in the same month last year, the Bureau of the Treasury said Monday.
It said the wider budget gap in February stemmed from the 22.14-percent year-over-year increase in expenditures, matched with moderate revenue growth of 5.73 percent.
This also brought the two-month fiscal deficit to P76.7 billion, or 26.56 percent higher than last year’s P60.6 billion.
Revenue collections in February reached P224 billion, surpassing last year’s figure by 5.73 percent or P12.1 billion.
The two-month collection amounted to P645.8 billion, outperforming the P560 billion recorded in the same period last year by 15.32 percent.
Broken down, 92.36 percent was raised through taxes, while the remaining 7.64 percent came from non-tax sources.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) raised P138 billion in
February, exceeding the previous year’s level by 6.65 percent. This pushed the BIR’s cumulative collection to P446.4 billion, underlying double-digit yearon-year growth of 22.58 percent equivalent to P82.2 billion.
Collections by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) improved 12.19 percent to P70.6 billion in February from last year’s P62.9 billion. This led the agency’s aggregate collection in the first two months to P144. billion, surpassing the level posted in the same period last year by 7.84 percent.
The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) contributed P6.5 billion in revenues in February, slightly higher by 1.56 percent year-on-year, largely due to higher dividend remittances and national government’s share from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.’s income.
•P164.7-b deficit in February
•Gov’t spending up 22%
•Revenue collection up 5.7%
Secretary Ralph Recto leads the kick-off ceremony of the Department of Finance’s (DOF) 127th anniversary celebration.
FINANCE Secretary Ralph Recto on Monday attributed the country’s sustained economic growth to the government’s fiscal and economic policies.
Recto urged the DOF employees to break free from conventional thinking and pursue bolder visions and audacious programs to bring about a new Philippines, while ensuring empathy remains at the heart of all of the DOF’s efforts.
“As we begin to see our dreams of genuine economic transformation come to life and witness real improvements in the lives of every Filipino, it will
“The resilience of the Philippine economy, weathering storms and crises throughout the years, is a result of our careful fiscal and economic policies and prudent management of the nation’s resources,” Recto said during the kick-off ceremony of the Department of Finance’s (DOF) 127th anniversary celebration.
as a ‘great
January building constructions slowed 17%
FEWER building projects were launched in January 2024 compared to last year.
The Philippine Statistics Authority said the number of newly-issued building permits dropped 17.3 percent in January to 11,433, following a smaller decline in December.
Homes continued to be the most popular construction project, with over 7,300 permits issued in January. That’s two-thirds of all permits, but it’s still a 22-percent drop from the same time last year.
The number of permits issued for building construction fell 17.3 percent in January 2024 to 11,433 from 13,824 in January 2023. This followed a December 2023 de-
cline of 5.3 percent, according to the PSA. Residential buildings accounted for the most significant share of construction permits issued in January 2024, with 7,390 permits, or 64.6 percent of the total. However, this represented a 22.3-percent decrease from January 2023’s 9,507 permits.
Single-family homes comprised the majority of residential permits at 88.0 percent or 6,506.
Non-residential construction permits came in second at 2,876 or 25.2 percent of the total, showing a slight year-on-year increase of 0.6 percent. Commercial buildings led this category, accounting for 72.2 percent or 2,077 of non-residential permits.
be because of the dedication of each and every one of you in the DOF. The Filipino people will have every one of you to thank for,” he said.
He said among the crucial tasks of the DOF is ensuring effective and efficient revenue generation, resource mobilization, debt management and financial market development to provide a solid foundation for the Philippine economy that is one of the most active and dynamic in the world.
The DOF is celebrating its 127th
PH
anniversary on April 24, 2024. Founded in 1897, the department predates the establishment of the Republic of the Philippines and was primarily tasked to finance the revolution, education, and health through progressive taxation.
The DOF now leads in formulating fiscal and economic policies that ensure funding of critical government programs that promote welfare among the Filipino people and accelerate inclusive economic growth.
goods, services exports
surpassed $100-b level for the first time in 2023
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Monday exports of goods and services hit a record $103.6 billion in 2023, up by 5.71 percent from $98 billion in 2022.
It said the latest data confirm the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recent release of the latest balance of payments and international investment position manual (BPM6) data.
Export Management Bureau (EMB) director Bianca Sykimte said the record figure was driven by the continued growth of the services sector.
The strong performance of the ITbusiness process management (ITBPM) industry and the turn-around in tourism revenues propped-up exports last year. She said that while services were
on an uptrend, goods exports faced challenges. Electronics exports declined 3.4 percent or $955 million to $922.43 million 2023. Lackluster demand for agricultural products resulted in a decline in merchandise exports. Declines on coconut products exports, other agrobased items, mineral products and petroleum affected the merchandise export performance, while fruits and vegetables showed an increase in demand. Services exports went up by 17.4 percent, driving the overall export growth. Travel services contributed nearly 70 percent to the incremental services export receipts in 2023, followed by other business services.
Othel V. Campos
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Monday it expects inflation in March 2024 to fall within a range of 3.4 percent to 4.2 percent.
“Continued price increases of rice and meat, along with higher domestic oil prices and electricity rates are the primary sources of upward price pressures for the month,” the BSP said in a statement.
Factory index sustained growth in February—S&P
By Othel V. CamposTHE purchasing manufacturing index (PMI) showed a modest improvement in March 2024, showing the sustained growth of the Philippine manufacturing sector.
The PMI reached 50.9 percent in March 2024, although this was lower than February’s’ 51 percent, according to S&P Global.
It marked the seventh consecutive month of improvement, data showed.
“The downturn came despite firms in general recording sustained demand for goods. Sentiment among manufacturers weakened and was the least optimistic in nearly four years. Firms were concerned that increased market competition would limit growth prospects. However, hopes of demand conditions domestically and globally strengthening continued to buoy confidence levels,” said S&P Global Market Intelligence economist Maryam Baluch.
The report noted that while the pace of expansion continued, the growth in new orders remained subdued, and production contracted for the first time since July 2022 due to material shortages.
It said there was increased hiring activity for the second consecutive month. The hiring growth rate was the strongest in one and a half years.
It said lower prices of fruits, vegetables and fish, along with the peso appreciation could contribute to downward price pressures.
The Philippine Statistics Authority will release the official consumer price index report on April 5.
The BSP targets an inflation rate of between 2 percent and 4 percent this year.
Monetary officials said they would continue to monitor developments affecting the outlook for inflation and growth in line with its data-dependent approach to monetary policy decision-making.
The Philippine Statistics Authority earlier reported that inflation in February picked up to 3.4 percent from 2.8 percent in January, on higher food, beverage and transport prices.
Darwin G. Amojelar
sinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx) to provide an important east-west link.
PAL’s profit climbed 92% amid 2023 air travel rebound
By Darwin G. AmojelarPHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said
JG Summit Holdings Inc., the listed holding company of the Gokongwei family, earmarked P87.2 billion for 2024 capital expenditures to finance the expansion of its core airline, property and food manufacturing businesses.
THIS year’s capital expenditure program is down 11.5 percent from P98.6 billion the group spent in 2023.
JG Summit said in an investor presentation the bulk of this year’s
passenger revenues from $2.1 billion (P114 billion) in 2022 to $2.9 billion (P160 billion) in 2023, with the continued recovery of air travel post-pandemic.
Total net revenues, including cargo and ancillary revenues, grew 27 percent from $2.6 billion (P139 billion) to $3.2 billion (P181 billion).
“To preserve the gains we have achieved, we must not rest on our laurels. PAL’s corporate transformation continues – we are taking in new aircraft, retrofitting cabins of current aircraft, upgrading airport lounges and introducing more product innovations to address our strategic, financial and operational needs across all areas of our operations,” PAL president and chief operating officer Stanley Ng said.
“Our focus is set firmly on taking care of our customers. We will work collaboratively with government authorities and our service partners to build up our network and take the nation’s flag carrier to new heights in the coming years,” he said. PAL Holdings president and chief operating officer Lucio Tan III thanked the customers who entrusted their travel journeys to PAL and commended the dedication and commitment of the PAL Group workforce.
LIGHT Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) on Monday announced key leadership changes in preparation for the opening of LRT Line 1 Cavite extension by the fourth quarter of 2024.
LRMC appointed Jose Ma. K. Lim as president and chief executive of the company on an interim basis effective this month, replacing Juan Alfonso. Lim also serves as LRMC executive committee chairman and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. director.
Alfonso, meanwhile, will step up to a leadership position in Metro Pacific Light Rail Corp. (MPLRC).
MPLRC is one of LRMC’s shareholders owned by Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) and Sumitomo Corp.
The company expressed gratitude for the dedication and hard work of Alfonso who served as president and chief executive in the past six years.
Alfonso led the LRMC team in rehabilitating the existing LRT-1 system, achieving significant progress for the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project – Phase 1 despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and building LRMC into an organization focused on service excellence.
LRMC also appointed Enrico Benipayo as general manager effective April 2024.
Benipayo, who previously served as LRMC’s former chief operating officer, will lead the company’s dayto-day activities as the new general manager. He has a full breadth of knowledge in the rail transport sector having accumulated over 35 years of professional experience in the fields of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), maintenance and O&M consultancy.
Darwin G. Amojelar
capital spending would go to its airline business Cebu Air Inc., which is spending P48.7 billion for additional aircraft acquisition. Cebu Air will have 18 new aircraft
deliveries this year to end 2024 with 93. Its property unit Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) also earmarked P22 billion in capital expenditures primarily to expand the commercial spaces of its malls and office as well as build more hotel rooms. RLC will increase its mall leasable area by 4 percent, its office space by 11 percent, industrial space by 30 percent and hotel rooms by 5 percent in 2024.
Universal Robina Corp. (URC), the
MAKATI Development Corp., (MDC) the construction arm of Ayala Land Inc. (ALI), said Monday it finalized an agreement with Japan’s Takenaka Corp. to establish a joint venture company called MDTK Corp.
Takenaka said in a statement posted in its website the joint venture would contribute to “urban creation” in the Philippines by undertaking landmark projects centered on ALI’s properties such as the reconstruction of a shopping mall in Makati. The joint venture brings together more than 400 years of extensive architecture, engineering, and construction experience and expertise to the country, ALI said in a statement.
Ayala Corp. and ALI chairman
Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala said the tie-up would enable both parties to integrate best practices into their planned developments.
“The MDC-Takenaka partnership will become an avenue to advance more innovative and sustainable solutions that will benefit the communities that we serve, especially at this time when the Philippines is primed for exponential economic growth,” Zobel de Ayala said.
Meanwhile, the partnership will also open opportunities for the two companies to take on complex design and construction projects and introduce new technologies and methodologies that will benefit the Philippine construction industry. Jenniffer B. Austria
food manufacturing unit of JG Summit, will spend P12.7 billion for the construction and outfitting of various manufacturing plants, including the 31-hectare Malvar property.
Meanwhile, the group’s petrochemical business will invest P2.7 billion to sustain operations and settle project contract payments this year.
“JGS’ recurring core net income is targeted to hover to its pre-pandemic level as business units work towards capturing improving consumer sentiments,” the conglomerate said.
PH stocks rise as investors cheer positive US, China economic data
LOCAL stocks started the second quarter of 2024 in an upbeat note on the back of positive economic news from the US and China.
The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index rose 76.28 points, or 1.11 percent, to close at 6,979.81 Monday, while the broader-all shares index added 28.89 points, or 0.80 percent, to finish at 3,636.40.
China Bank Capital managing director Juan Paolo Colet said investors welcomed the US February print of the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index, the preferred inflation gauge of the Federal Reserve, which was in line with consensus estimates and slower than the January data.
“These reinforced bets that the Federal Reserve is on track to cut interest rates as soon as June this year.,”
Colet said.
“There was also good news from China where data showed that manufacturing activity expanded for the first time in six months,” he said.
Meanwhile, Asian markets were mixed while gold hit a record high Monday after data showed a slight uptick in US inflation that Federal Reserve boss Jerome Powell said was “in line with expectations”.
Traders were also cheered by a big jump in Chinese factory activity that fueled hopes the world’s number two economy may be on its way back after bottoming out. Jenniffer B. Austria
DTI signs deal to occupy entire Filinvest Buendia building in Makati
FILINVEST Cyberparks Inc. (FCI), the office business arm of Filinvest Land Inc. (FLI), said Monday it signed a lease agreement with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
FCI said it is leasing its entire Filinvest Buendia building to DTI as part of the latter’s plan to consolidate its various operating units, aiming to improve efficiency and convenience for both the department and its stakeholders. The handover of the building is scheduled for next month. The lease agreement, encompassing 10,668.40 square meters, reflects the shared commitment from both Filinvest and DTI towards fostering efficiency, innovation, and progress.
“Filinvest Land is committed
THE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Monday retail and wholesale prices of consumer products were on a downtrend.
Data from the PSA showed that the annual general retail price index (GRPI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) increased at a slower rate at 2.1 percent in February, from 2.5 percent in January.
It was also down from 6.6 percent registered a year ago.
“The primary contributor to the deceleration of the annual growth rate of GRPI in NCR was the slower annual increase recorded in the heavily weighted food index at 3.0 percent during the month from 3.7 percent in January 2024,” the PSA said.
It also noted slower annual increments in the indices of bever-
THE Philippines and the Czech Republic reached a mutual understanding to improve bilateral trade and widen technology transfers between the two countries, particularly in livestock and dairy production and water management.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. recently met with a delegation from the Czech Republic led by Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný in Manila, a follow-up to their meeting during the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in March 2024.
Tiu Laurel said the Philippines should learn from the Czech Republic’s success in dairy industry, water and irrigation management, livestock production and from its online platform that provides information and comprehensive solutions on agriculture, technology, machinery and direct communications with machinery producers.
The Philippines also offered to purchase bull sperm for artificial insemination to improve the quality of local herd as the Czech Republic is known as one of the top dairy producing countries in Europe and one of the major suppliers of beef.
The Philippines imports almost all its dairy requirements and sources from overseas parent stocks for cattle and other livestock.
The DA is keen on expanding the market of Philippine agricultural products within the European Union.
“We have some products ready for export so market access is also very important to us, especially the European Union which is one of the best markets in the world for our products,” said Tiu Laurel.
ages and tobacco, 4.8 percent from 5.2 percent; crude materials, inedible except fuels, 0.7 percent from 1.9 percent; chemicals, including animal and vegetable oils and fats, 2.4 percent from 2.7 percent; manufactured goods classified chiefly by materials, 1.3 percent from 1.9 percent; machinery and transport equipment, 0.7 percent from 1.1 percent; and miscellaneous manufactured articles, 1.1 percent from 1.5 percent.
The PSA, however, observed a faster increase in the index of mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials at 0.2 percent during the month from 1.3 percent annual drop in January 2024.
Meanwhile, the annual increase of the general wholesale price index (GWPI) also eased to 2.8 percent in February from 3.5 percent in January 2024. It was also lower than 6.8 percent in February 2023.
“The downtrend in the annual rate of the GWPI in the Philippines was primarily caused by the
lower annual increase in manufactured goods classified chiefly by materials index at 2.2 percent in February 2024 from 4.6 percent in January 2024,” the PSA said. It also saw slower annual increases in the indices of food at 3.6 percent in February 2024 from 4.5 percent in the previous month, and machinery and transport equipment at 0.8 percent in February 2024 from 1.1 percent in January 2024.
“Similar to the trend at the national level, the year-on-year growth rate of GWPI in Luzon slowed down to 2.6 percent in February 2024 from an annual increase of 3.4 percent in January 2024,” the PSA said.
The annual growth rate of GWPI in the Visayas picked up to 6.1 percent in February 2024 from 5.8 percent in January 2024.
Meanwhile, the annual rate of GWPI in Mindanao increased to 2.5 percent in February 2024 from 2.3 percent in January 2024.
STATE-RUN Clark Development Corp. (CDC) reported a net income of P2.79 billion in 2023, up by 28 percent from P2.19 billion in 2022.
Total assets of the stateowned firm reached P13.81 billion, a 12-percent growth from the 2022 figure of P12.31 billion.
The Commission on Audit substantiated the figures and recently issued an unmodified opinion on the CDC financial statements for the said year.
CDC president and chief executive Agnes VST Devanadera credited the financial gains to prudent fiscal management, incremental revenue shares aris -
ing from tourists’ spending, and locators’ confidence in teamwork between the management and the board of directors. Devanadera said the CDC would continuously aim to improve the ease of doing business in the Freeport to retain existing investors and attract more branded businesses. With its record-breaking performance, the CDC remitted P1.80 billion in cash dividends to the Bureau of the Treasury on March 25, 2024.
This is in support of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto’s request for a higher dividend rate and early remittance.
PSALM
Industry Reform Act of 2001.
Under the guidelines, PSALM will have 50 percent or less of the outstanding capital stock of the joint venture (JV).
The JV will maximize the value of the agency’s assets or shall earn optimal proceeds for the government while providing reasonable returns for the Private Sector Partner (PSP).
It said the JV between PSALM and the PSP should not prevent other potential players from profitably entering into business ventures/markets.
The JV agreements allow sharing of profits and losses between PSALM and the PSP and enable the PSP to take over the infrastructure or development project.
“Ultimately, an objective assessment, such as feasibility/due diligence studies conducted by a third party, of what best serves the public interest should guide the decision of PSALM,” the guidelines said. Alena Mae S. Flores
By Alena Mae S. FloresTHE Department of Energy said Monday it does not expect any power supply shortage during the dry months amid the prolonged El Nino drought.
“Based on our latest monitoring and assessments, we do not see any shortage in electricity supply while our demand has not gone up to the projected peak demand this year,” DOE assistant secretary Mario Marasigan said in a TV interview.
Marasigan said there is still a supply margin of about 2,000 megawatts in Luzon and 200 MW to 500 MW in the Visayas and Mindanao.
“In Mindanao, we have excess capacity from supply. We see a shortage of electricity supply in the Visayas if all generation will come from Visayas alone,” he said.
Marasigan said the MindanaoVisayas Interconnection Project was able to transfer the maximum capacity of 450 MW from Mindanao to the Visayas.
He said the completion of the Cebu-Negros-Panay Transmission Stage 3 would also help boost capacity in Panay.
He said the CNP transmission line’s capacity is now at 400 MW from Cebu to Negros.
THE World Bank on Monday upgraded its growth outlook for the Philippines amid the recovery of the services sector.
It now sees the Philippine economy expanding 5.8 percent in 2024, faster than its October 2023 forecast of 5.6 percent.
The World Bank, in its East Asia and the Pacific Economic Update, also raised its 2025 gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast to 5.9 percent from the previous estimate of 5.8 percent.
World Bank East Asia and Pacific chief economist Aaditya Mattoo said the recovery in services, coupled with significant reforms such as the enactment of the Public Services Act, would support the economic growth in the Philippines.
The Philippines is expected to remain among the fastest-growing Southeast Asian economies this year, surpassing Vietnam’s 5.5 percent, Indonesia’s 4.9 percent, Malaysia’s 4.3 percent and Thailand’s 2.8 percent.
It is also expected to outperform the regional growth of 4.5 percent expected for the developing East Asia and the Pacific in 2024.
“While recovering global trade and easing financial conditions are expected to support economies in the region, increasing debt, protectionism and policy uncertainty could dampen
INTELLECTUAL Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) director-general Rowel Barba called on companies and individuals to support strong IP protection in the country.
“Now is the time for the IP community to step up to the challenge,” Barba said at the National Intellectual Property Month (NIPM) kick-off press conference Monday.
He urged IP rights holders and creators to support the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which recognizes the key role that the IP system and innovation play in the country’s goals towards inclusiveness, climateresilience, green energy, modernized agriculture and an overall better standard of living.
“As the PDP said, we need a more vigorous intellectual property culture’ to advance innovations in various aspects, whether in improving health care services, developing competitive industries, creating knowledge hubs across regions, protecting our culture and adding value to our creative and innovative assets,” Barba said. The NIPM will culminate in the Gawad Yamang Isip Awards on April 29, 2024. The annual GYI is a venue for discussions to improve the state of IP in the country and recognize businesses, innovators and creators who are optimizing their IP assets in relation to NIPM 2024 theme in focus.
Othel V. Campos
By Jenniffer B. AustriaSECURITY Bank Corp. said Monday it is collaborating with the International Finance Corp. (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank, to strengthen its sustainability and green financing capabilities.
Under the agreement, IFC will work with Security Bank to establish a baseline for climate finance, enhance sustainable finance business development capabilities and improve its climate risk management system.
The project is part of IFC’s 30 by 30 Zero initiative in the Philippines, which aims to help financial institutions to scale-up climate-friendly projects.
“Security Bank has set some ambitious goals as it accelerates its sustainability journey, and we’re excited to be coming onboard as advisors at this critical juncture,” said Jean-Marc Arbogast, IFC country manager for the Philippines.
“From defining their climate strategy to helping identify green financing opportunities, IFC is committed to
helping Security Bank see through its green transformation,” Arbogast said.
The bank’s investment banking arm, SB Capital Investment Corp., previously helped finance ACEN Corp.’s P10-billion ASEAN Green Fixed Rate Bonds, which won the Renewable Energy Financing ProgramPhilippines award at the ESG Business Awards.
The bank also launched last month its new Wave Mastercard—the first local credit card made from 100-percent recycled PVC as certified by the ICMA Ecolabel Standard.
growth,” the World Bank said in its report.
“Regional growth is projected to ease to 4.5 percent in 2024 from 5.1 percent last year. Growth in developing East Asia and Pacific excluding China is projected to pick up to 4.6 percent this year from 4.4 percent in 2023,” it said.
Growth in China is projected to moderate to 4.5 percent this year from 5.2 percent in 2023, because of near term problems, such as high debt and a weak property sector, as well as longer-term challenges, such as aging and trade frictions.
Growth among Pacific Island countries is forecast to decline to 3.6 percent in 2024 from 5.6 percent last year, as the post-pandemic rebound dissipates.
The World Bank said the region’s current macroeconomic challenges risk obscuring the microeconomic foundations of longer-term growth.
“Over the last decade, growth has been driven primarily by investment rather than by increased productivity of firms,” it said.
It noted that private investment is now weak, and productivity declining – further inhibiting the incentive to invest.
CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. said Monday it is extending its free speed boost to subscribers up to June 30, 2024.
“We received very positive feedback after we initially revealed the speed boost, so we decided to extend it,” said Converge executive vice president and chief commercial officer Benjamin Azada.
“We want our subscribers to know that we are serious about empowering their homes and businesses and giving them an amazing customer experience,” he said.
The free 200 Mbps speed upgrade is effective nationwide where Converge is available and does not require additional eligibility criteria, cost or sign-up. New subscribers are automatically signed up for the boosted speeds, depending on their chosen plan.
“We hope that with this extended speed boost, our customers will notice the perks of having a faster and superior digital experience through Converge,” Converge vice president and brand and marketing head Orange Ramirez said.
“This summer, our subscribers can continue to work, stream, and play at the same time. There is always something for everyone with us as their
By Othel V. CamposBOSSJOB, the chat-first career platform for professional hiring in Southeast Asia (SEA), said it signed a strategic partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority-National Capital Region (TESDA-NCR) to bridge the gap between skilled Filipino workers and meaningful career opportunities.
The collaboration harmonizes Bossjob’s innovative technology and TESDA’s comprehensive training programs to ensure graduates of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) are equipped for the evolving demands of the workforce.
“The CollaboraTVET initiative, em-
anating from the program of TESDA Secretary Suharto Mangudadatu, underscores our dedication to fostering strategic alliances, particularly with private industries. Our primary objective is to ensure that our TVET programs are finely attuned to meet the evolving demands of these industries, said TESDA-NCR regional director Jovencio Ferrer Jr.
He said the partnership aligns with TESDA-NCR’s program dubbed “CollaboraTVET: Forging Partnerships for TVET Excellence.”
Under the accord, Bossjob will offer specialized training programs tailored to the needs of TESDA graduates, along with exclusive job opportunities and career development resources.
SAN Miguel Corp. (SMC) reported big progress in protecting and preserving the nation’s water resources through conservation, river clean-ups and recycling.
The company on World Water Day on March 22 registered its highest water savings in five years, under its flagship water sustainability program “Water for All.” It also reported significant progress in its ongoing massive effort to clean up major river systems in Metro Manila and surrounding provinces.
SMC president and chief executive officer Ramon S. Ang said the company’s group-wide “Water for All” program saved 7.5 billion liters of scarce water in 2023.
The figure brings SMC’s total water savings throughout the program’s seven-year run to 41.3 billion liters―equivalent to the monthly consumption of 1.3 million households.
Ang likewise bared the progress of another major water initiative: As of March 21, the conglomerate’s river rehabilitation project had removed 5.5 million metric tons of silt and solid wastes from 85 kilometers of waterways. These include the Tullahan River, Pasig River, San Juan River and Bulacan rivers, as well as those in Laguna and Navotas.
“Water issues have long been a major priority for us. Our latest internal Group water savings report, together with our ongoing river cleanup
initiatives, are a strong affirmation of San Miguel’s commitment when it comes to the protection, preservation, and enhancement of our water resources,” said Ang.
“Our employees have played a critical role in achieving these results. We are grateful to them for fully adopting and taking to heart our water sustainability advocacies, particularly the reduction of our use of scarce water sources, and parallel to that, the rehabilitation of polluted rivers, to also help flood mitigation,” he added.
The company’s internal water savings, according to Ang, come mostly from increased utilization of non-scarce water sources, such as seawater, recycled water and rainwater.
“In the past couple of years, our businesses have really stepped up when it comes to investing in watersaving measures. From fixing leaks, installing new meters, replacing old pipes; to installing rainwater harvesting facilities, utilizing more efficient water recycling and reuse systems, to investments in advanced technologies such as desalination: Every drop counts, so every little effort of our employees, count,” Ang said.
THE amount of electronic waste―or e-waste―that we produce is at least 62 million tons, and it’s rising five times faster than
That’s the worrying finding of the UN Global E-waste Monitor report, published recently.
The report looked into the sheer volume of old phones, batteries and other tech that’s thrown away and found that all this e-waste would fill over one and a half million 40-ton trucks―that’s about enough to form a bumper-to-bumper line of lorries around the Equator.
Data crunched by the UN agencies behind the report―ITU and UNITAR―also found that only around 25 percent of e-waste in 2022 was officially recorded to have been recycled.
This means $62 billion worth of recoverable natural resources are unaccounted for, increasing pollution risks to communities worldwide.
Worldwide, e-waste is rising by 2.6 million tonnes annually, meaning that we’re on track to reach 82 million tons by 2030.
E-waste―any discarded product with a plug or battery―is a health and environmental hazard, containing toxic additives or hazardous substances such as mercury, which can damage the human brain and nervous system. UN News
THE Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), managed by Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC, is embarking on an ambitious journey toward sustainable airport operations.
Following its Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation recognition, MCIA is setting the stage for more groundbreaking environmental initiatives to achieve a net zero target by 2050.
Net zero refers to reducing carbon emissions to a small amount of residual levels that can be absorbed and durably stored by nature, as well as other carbon dioxide removal measures, leaving zero in the atmosphere.
The award-winning airport plans
TACKLING emissions of methane now is essential to meet the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2050, according to a new report issued by the UN-backed Global Methane Forum last week.
The Forum is meeting in Geneva, hosted by the UN Economic Commission for Europe, the UN Environment Program-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition and other partners. Political momentum is building towards methane
for climate action.
The gas is responsible for around 30 percent of total warming since the Industrial Revolution and is the second largest contributor to global warming after CO2.
UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean opened the plenary session on Tuesday by making a global call to mobilize more ambitious action: “Hand in hand with decarbonization of energy systems, methane emissions need to be addressed in governments’ plans for stronger climate action.”UN News
to utilize more bridge-mounted preconditioned air (PCA) and ground power units (GPUs) to replace motorized GPUs and auxiliary PUs while aircraft are parking and boarding passengers, use electric ground support equipment and other airside vehicles, as well as expand the airport’s existing solar power plant in other areas of the airport. “Achieving Net Zero emissions is not just about reducing our carbon footprint; it’s about ensuring that our impact on the environment is effectively neutralized, leaving a sustainable legacy for future generations,” said Athanasios Titonis, MCIA president and chief
executive officer. The landmark Level I Airport Carbon Accreditation from the Airports Council International, a first in the Philippines, reflects MCIA’s comprehensive approach to carbon management and highlights the proactive steps taken to reduce its carbon emissions. These include installing a rooftop solar power plant and energyefficient equipment such as LED (light-emitting diode) lights, regularly monitoring electricity and fuel consumption, and conducting emission tests for ground support equipment and emergency generators.
YUCHENGCO-led PetroGreen Energy Corp. and Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (MMCM) signed a scholarship agreement for qualified students of engineering, business, and environment-related courses.
“PGEC is pleased to award its pilot scholarship grants to students of Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao, which is among the leading engineering and technology schools in the country. Advancing quality education that responds to global challenges, has always been part of PGEC’s education program,” said PGEC president and chief executive officer F.G. Delfin Jr.
“It is our hope that with this partnership, we will be able to produce not only responsible professionals but also clean energy advocates,” he said.
MMCM president Dr. Dodjie S.
Maestrecampo said the scholarship program aligns with the institution’s mission to provide exceptional educational opportunities and cultivate a generation of responsible engineers and professionals committed to sustainable development.
“We believe this collaboration will empower our students to become leaders who drive innovation and create a better future for all,” Maestrecampo said.
PGEC is the renewable energy holding unit of publicly-listed company PetroEnergy Resources Corp. PGEC has investments in the 32-megawatt Maibarara Geothermal Power Project in Batangas, 50-MW Nabas Wind Power Project in Aklan and 70-MW Tarlac Solar Power Project inTarlac. PGEC is currently developing three solar projects in Luzon and one in Bohol province..
In
and increased financing so that when it comes to water, no one is left behind.” World Water Day on March 22 will spotlight the global water crisis, which is being driven by a combination of factors, from climate change to leaky pipes. Here is a look at seven things countries and individuals can do to stem water shortfalls.
1. Protect and restore The ecosystems that supply humanity with fresh water are disappearing at an alarming rate. Wetlands, peatlands, forested catchment areas, lakes, rivers and groundwater aquifers are falling victim to climate change, overexploitation and pollution. This is undermining their ability to provide communities with water. These natural spaces urgently need to be protected and those that have been degraded, revived through large-scale restoration. Countries would be well served to develop specific, measurable targets for this work. Nations would ideally weave those goals into national plans to counter climate change, protect biodiversity and avoid drought and desertification. This work is especially important for securing water supplies for cities, many of which are suffering from water shortages. (To be continued) UNEP News
TUESDAY, APRIL 2, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
FILIPINO singer
Giuliana Chiong is set to represent the Philippines in the Chinese singing competition Rising Voice
The show, particularly its audition process, focuses on discovering talented young singers. It aims to nurture their skills and potential with the help of music tutors, while also encouraging a love and interest in music. Additionally, it provides a platform for them to further explore the musical world.
Unlike typical singing competitions, Rising Voice prioritizes both vocal talent and artistic development. Launched in 2023, the show has already aired 26 episodes, attracting singers not just from the Philippines, but also from Malaysia and Singapore.
“It’s a huge honor,” 13-year-old Giuliana told Manila Standard Entertainment . “There’s nothing more rewarding than representing your country and showcasing your talent as a Filipino.”
Hailing from Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental, Giuliana rose
to prominence as a contestant in The Voice Kids Philippines Season 5 . Joining Team Martin Nievera (“MarTeam”), she impressively reached the semifinals in her very first singing competition.
“Singing is my passion,” Giuliana admitted, “and I think I inherited that love of music from my mom. I’m actually writing my own songs now, but I’m not quite confident enough to share them publicly yet. Maybe someday soon.”
Giuliana cites Billie Eilish and Zack Tabudlo as her musical
THIS month, actor-director Xian Lim heads to Thailand to shoot his latest film, a horror thriller titled Kuman Thong . Xian also penned the script, drawing inspiration from Thai mythology. “It’s based on a Thai myth about stillborn fetuses that are believed to bring luck and protection if properly cared for. In the Philippines, we have a similar concept with the tiyanak ,” he shares.
The 34-year-old Xian clarifies, “However, the Kuman Thong isn’t necessarily a monster. In ancient Thailand, monks would perform rituals on stillborn babies, believing their spirits could be inhabited by other deceased children. These fetuses were then cremated and adorned with gold leaf, earning the name ‘Kuman Thong,’ which translates to Golden Boy.”
“Offerings are made to the Kuman Thong in exchange for safety and good luck. But if neglected, they can become mischievous or even harmful, much like a young child,” he goes on. With a new genre under his belt, does Xian feel pressure? “There’s definitely some pressure,” he admits. “This is my first full-length horror film. My goal is to do justice to the Thai mythology and capture its authenticity.”
After over two decades in the entertainment industry, Katrina Halili is thrilled to finally receive her first acting recognition at the recently concluded Emirates Film Festival in Dubai. She took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in AbeNida
“Winning at such a prestigious film festival still feels surreal,” Katrina shared. “It’s a huge honor to be recognized for my acting, especially considering the talented actresses from various countries I was competing against. Standing out amongst such a roster is tough, so I’m incredibly happy that my efforts were rewarded.”
This win marks a significant step forward in Katrina’s acting career.
“Honestly, I never expected to win an acting award,” she admitted.
“Sure, I received recognition from ‘FHM’ before, but that was for my looks, not my acting
KATRINA Velarde journey to becoming a beloved Filipino singer is nothing short of remarkable. It all started with a viral video – the now-iconic “Suklay Diva” moment where a young Katrina belted out a Beyonce song using a comb as a microphone.
Very
Fast forward to today, Katrina is a powerhouse vocalist and a certified Gen Z favorite. She’s gearing up for a major concert, ZCon, happening on April 13 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati.
In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment Katrina vibrated with infectious energy as she talked about the upcoming show.
“It’s been a while since I’ve had a concert, and my body is literally craving it,” she confessed. “This time around, I’m taking a very hands-on approach, but thankfully, I have my incredible team by my side.”
With a wide smile breaking across her face, Katrina elaborated on the driving force behind
“It’s not just about the music, it’s about the entire creative experience,” she explained. “Especially in today’s fastpaced industry, staying on top of trends is crucial. This concert is a chance for me to reconnect with my existing audience, and also to reach out to new listeners and remind them – Katrina Velarde is back.”
A touch of gratitude softened her voice as she added, “It’s also my way of expressing my deepest appreciation to my fans for their unwavering support throughout my
The solo concert will see Katrina doing onstage collaboration with talented artists like ASAP Champions Reiven Umali, Khimo Gumatay, While her core fanbase may be Gen Z, Katrina emphasizes that ZCon is for everyone.
“I want people to connect with music from the ‘90s and 2000s. We’re putting a fresh spin on it,” she emphasized. “I’m so eager to bring this concert to life. Coming out of the pandemic, we all craved more entertainment. It made me realize that even during those tough times, people still wanted to see us perform. Now that we’re back on stage, I couldn’t be happier.”
Katrina is heavily involved, working with her own team, including musical director Teddy Katigbak, who has created unique arrangements for her covers and social media content.
inspirations.
Priscila Teo of the Singaporebased Academy of Rock, impressed by Giuliana’s performance in The Voice , encouraged her to audition for Rising Voice
Just this March, Giuliana joined Cornerstone Entertainment, a leading Filipino multimedia entertainment a gency. Cornerstone is known for its talent management arm, which represents world-class singers like Erik Santos, Moira Dela Torre, Yeng Constantino , and more. Nickie Wang
“Our collaboration ensures a concert experience tailored for my fans, both old and new,” she said. Tickets for ZCon concert are now available for purchase through Ticket World www.premiere. ticketworld.com.ph
WHEN one thinks of Japan, delicious Japanese food and the iconic look of Tokyo’s train stations may be some of the first things that come to mind. Combining these two is exactly what was behind the new look of Japanese restaurant Go Bento’s original location in BGC in Taguig.
Following months of renovation, Go Bento has recently unveiled its 90-seater restaurant’s new design which imbibed a “Tokyo-Metro” vibe with red tiles, signages, railings, and other details akin to a train station in Tokyo.
Upon entering the restaurant, customers will be greeted by a large sign depicting directions similar to those seen in Japanese train stations. However, instead of Japanese train stops, the signs lead to where they can take their seats, orders, and takeout requests. Some seats were also designed to mimic the interior of trains, with booths having metallic railings, giving customers a chance to feel what it is like to be on a train in Japan while enjoying their meals.
Scott Tan, the managing director of Scottland Food Group, Inc., which was the company that
launched Bonchon in the Philippines, shared that he studied Japanese restaurants while planning for the new designs of Go Bento.
Tan found that they typically either had the concept of a traditional restaurant or focused on the popular J-pop and Manga themes. Upon being in a train station in Tokyo, he realized that a metro train station theme would best fit Go Bento’s concept, which is why the restaurant ended up adapting its ambiance.
“This blueprint goes well with our bento boxes, [with] bentos being a huge part of Japanese people’s culture and heritage, just as train stations are,” said Tan.
He further explained that through their bento boxes, he wanted to recreate the feeling and value that Japanese people embody when it comes to their food.
“[Bento boxes] are embedded in the culinary DNA of the working people. They grab a bento
The newly renovated 90-seater restaurant offers affordable and
anytime they want to eat a quick and complete meal,” said Tan.
Tan further noted that the company had noticed how there were not a lot of authentic and affordable Japanese food offerings in the local market despite the growing demand for it.
Jennylyn
BOX-OFFICE actress Jennylyn
Mercado and decorated actor Dennis Trillo are teaming up for the first time in the upcoming film Everything About My Wife Details about Sam Milby’s role remain under wraps, but the film is said to revolve around a man’s outrageous attempt to get rid of his wife.
Everything About My Wife is a Philippine adaptation of the Argentinian hit Un Novio Para Mi Mujer, which has been successfully remade in several countries. The Korean version, All About My Wife, starring Im Soo-jung, Lee Sun-kyun, and Ryu Seung-ryong, is a notable example. The success of the Korean version has led to other countries adapting the film. The Indian version, Hey Sinamika, was
American R&B singer UMI is known for her songs like ‘happy im,’‘why don’t we go,’ and ‘wherever u r (feat. V of BTS)’ The
The restaurant’s designs take inspiration from the details commonly found in Tokyo’s train stations
“[That is why] we adjusted and tailored-fit Go Bento’s concept to make them high-quality, complete, and affordable,” said Tan, further stating how his venture in leading and growing the restaurant came from his experience with handling Bonchon. Go Bento is set to pursue further expansion this year as it plans to open 10 more branches operated by the company in Metro Manila this year, with the next opening slated to be in Robinsons Galleria within two to three months.
The renovated restaurant is located at The Spa Building in Bonifacio High Street, BGC.
Rising soulful songstress returns to Manila for ‘Talking To The Wind’ tour
INSIGNIA Presents brings back American R&B singer UMI for her Talking To The Wind world tour. After a successful show in 2023, UMI performs again on April 11 at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub in Pasig. Fans can expect a mix of established hits and new tracks from her latest EP, Talking To The Wind. Popular songs like “happy im” and “why don’t we go” will be included, along with her recent charttopping single “wherever u r (feat. V of BTS).”
Tickets are priced at P3,800 and can be purchased online at www. InsigniaPresents.com or at any SM Tickets outlets nationwide.
In addition to the much-awaited concert, fans can join a soulful exclusive VIP Meditation Experience before the show, offering a unique opportunity to center their minds and energize their spirits led by UMI herself.
The intimate session will provide participants with a serene and rejuvenating experience, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of peace and music.
Tickets for the VIP Meditation Experience are priced at P4,000 and available as a ticket upgrade separate from the live concert ticket.
Fans can purchase their tickets early as availability is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at www.InsigniaPresents.com.
For more information about UMI and her upcoming concert in
released in 2022 and starred Dulquer Salmaan, Kajal Aggarwal, and Aditi Rao Hydari. The Spanish version, Un Novio Para Mi Mujer, premiered in 2023 and was headlined by Belén Cuesta, Antonio de la Torre, and Quim Gutiérrez
The success of Un Novio Para Mi Mujer proves the story’s universality and its ability to connect with audiences everywhere. Each adaptation offers a unique perspective on the story, and it’s fascinating to see how each country puts its own cultural spin on it. Directed by Real S. Florido and produced by CreaZion Studios, Everything About My Wife promises to be the year’s biggest romantic comedy. Nickie Wang
MOD and Noble Design
Studio bloomed from a humble seed of an idea, evolving from a creative spark between two Manila college classmates into a full-fledged interior and architectural design enterprise. Their journey is fueled by a burning desire to leave a lasting legacy, their artistic prowess evident within the walls of homes and commercial spaces. This is their story.
The
Jullienne Iris Taguinod and IDr. Roy Patrick Javier
From a young age, Iris fell in love with design and construction. This passion ignited the idea of starting their own business together. After gaining valuable experience at another firm, the duo launched
It all began as a shared dream between IDr.
Five best game console emulators for Android
CLASSIC games hold a special place in our hearts, but who has time for dusty consoles? Enter emulators for Android. These programs let you play your favorite retro games on your phone. From Nintendo 64 to PlayStation, emulators bridge the gap between vintage fun and modern convenience.
With improved graphics, save states, and controller support, you can relive childhood memories or discover new classics – all from your Android device.
M64Plus FZ
It is considered one of the top emulators for Nintendo 64 games on Android. It boasts features like up to 8K resolution upscaling, extensive graphic settings, anti-aliasing, and ultra-widescreen support for select games. Enjoy enhanced visuals when playing classics like Ocarina of Time or Pokemon Stadium.
John GBAC
This emulator allows users to enjoy Game Boy Advance and Game Boy Color games on their Android devices. It’s known for its simplicity, reliability, and high compatibility with a wide range of games. John GBAC also supports cheat codes, customizable keys, and turbo buttons, enhancing the gaming experience.
DuckStation
If you’re a Playstation 1 enthusiast, DuckStation is an excellent choice. It’s designed to be easy to use while providing accurate emulation and high performance. Other features this emulator offers include resolution scaling, texture filtering, and anti-aliasing through OpenGL and Vulcan. Android gamers who enjoy tinkering with codes will also be happy to know that DuckStation is open source.
PPSSPP
PPSSPP stands out as the go-to emulator for playing PSP games on Android. It offers impressive compatibility and performance, allowing you to play your favorite PSP games in HD resolution. PPSSPP also supports save states, dynamic recompiling, and has an extensive list of game compatibility. The basic version is available for free, while the Gold version, which offers additional features, costs P150.00 on Google Play.
RetroArch
Planning on downloading multiple emulators for your gaming trip down memory lane? There’s no need for that. If you want to play games on different retro consoles, your best option is to download RetroArch. It’s a versatile, all-in-one emulator that supports a vast array of systems including PlayStation, Nintendo, Sega, and more. RetroArch also boasts advanced features like shaders, netplay, and rewinding.
Many emulators have been available for a while, making them compatible with most Android phones, especially recent flagship models or gaming-oriented devices like the vivo Y36. If your phone struggles with older emulators, consider devices from the Smart Online Store, which should handle your favorite retro games smoothly. Subscribe to Smart’s prepaid or postpaid data promos for easy access to the Google Play Store and emulator downloads, bringing the magic of retro gaming to your fingertips.
key ingredients to a thriving business. Looking back, Mod and Noble Design Studio is indeed the start of something big.
From
By Abigail Adriatico
RECENT times have led to a growing preference for sustainability among businesses as more and more are being urged to set aside old practices that were proven harmful to society in favor of those that are more aligned with the calls for environmental care.
Health, wellness, and beauty retailer Watsons Philippines continues its goal of promoting sustainable living through initiatives in its business practices that cater to caring for the environment.
One of its efforts geared towards environmentally conscious initiatives is the “Sustainable Choices” program which features a selection of products that provide customers with sustainable alternatives through lines of “Clean Beauty,” “Refill Reuse,” “Better Ingredients,” and “Better Packaging.”
Products in the “Clean Beauty” line are those that are made with ingredients that have a reduced impact on the environment. The “Better Ingredients” line pertains to products that use paper or palm oil from responsibly managed plantations and non-formulated products that have a reduced amount of plastic content.
Those in the “Better Packaging” line are products with packaging that are made from sustainable materials as well as use recycled plastic or paper. The “Refill Reuse” line offers refill packs and stations that urge consumers to reuse the products’ original containers instead of throwing them away after using all of their contents.
Other initiatives of Watsons Philippines include a “Reuse with Watsons: A Sustainability Art Exhibit,” which featured artworks that embodied the importance of the 3Rs (reduce,
analyses, ECGs, and X-rays. It has also recently participated in a medical mission in October which allowed 60 patients to receive cleft lip surgeries from medical professionals from the non-profit organization Operation Smile. Watsons Philippines partnered with Punlaan School to provide apprenticeships to women aspiring to be pharmacy assistants.
This year, Watsons Philippines is set to continue providing initiatives that will benefit the three pillars of its sustainability program which are its consumers, the products it offers, and the planet. Such initiatives include encouraging the use of reusable bags among consumers as well as adding more to the number of volunteer employees to the retailer’s medical missions all over the country.
“We’re very proud of the steps we’ve made in jumpstarting our journey for sustainability… we recognize that it’s not a one-off campaign. It’s a commitment to continue to drive the conversation and ensure that everyone will be inspired and encouraged to take action,” said Watsons Senior AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability Sharon Decapia
Watsons Philippines is also set to open its first green store in Laguna which is designed to be more sustainable not only through its products but also through how it will be solar-powered. It is also aiming to use 100 percent recycled materials in its products by 2025.