Manila Standard - 2024 April 30 - Tuesday

PRESIDENT WARNS BARMM ELECTIONS SABOTEURS

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos had recently warned individuals trying to intervene and derail the first BARMM parliamentary election next year.

“Let this serve as a warning to those who may plan to threaten and derail this upcoming election, don’t even think about it because you will be up against the government,” the President said.

Marcos, however, urged those who are planning to intervene in

the election that they should instead channel their energy in more positive ways, such as “To help build productive and thriving communities where citizens are offered wide livelihood opportunities and healthy living spaces,” he stated.

President Marcos also reminded the public to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election “as you chart your political future in the forthcoming first BARMM elections in May 2025,” the President said.

PhilHealth airs heat alert Hotter temperatures forecast in May—PAGASA

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Expect brownouts in May as demand outstrips supply

THE Department of Energy (DOE) expressed concern over the possibility of brownouts as a red alert draws closer due to recent power plant outages and high power demand as the El Niño phenomenon rages.

“How close are we to the red alert, brownouts when we reach the red alert? Well, there is a potential, but as long as we have our contingency measures, this can be avoided,” DOE Assis-

tant Secretary Mario Marasigan said at a press conference.

Since the demand for power had already exceeded their projections earlier than expected, Marasigan assures the public that the DOE had already pegged some adjustments.

“Normally our demand rises towards the last week or end of May or June. But for this year, not only that the

Speaker to go after profiteers, hoarders and agri smugglers

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Martin Romualdez on Monday reaffirmed his commitment to fight hoarding, profiteering and smuggling of agricultural products, making it a top

priority of the House of Representatives.

“We will continue our fight against hoarders, profiteers, and smugglers of agricultural products,” Romualdez said in his speech during the resumption of

By Othel V. Campos

PHILHEALTH

has cautioned the public against heat stroke amid record high temperatures as the state weather bureau warned Monday of possibly even hotter weather in May amid the El Niño phenomenon.

PhilHealth recently increased its heat stroke benefit package by 30 percent from P6,500 to P8,450.

“If members or their dependents need to be admitted to any PhilHealth-accredited health facilities due to heat stroke or heat exhaustion, PhilHealth provides a benefit package amounting to P8,450,” said PhilHealth chief Emmanuel Ledesma Jr.

On Monday, 36 locations across the country were placed under the “danger category” for having a heat index of 42 to 51 degrees Celsius.

PAGASA weather specialist John Manalo said the hot temperature might only begin to ease in June.

“We expect the number of areas under the danger category to increase. We expect the heat index magnitude to also increase as we approach the first and second week of May,” Manalo said.

“The

Activist coalition sending 100 bancas to drop markers at Scarborough Shoal

second civilian mission scheduled to take place on May 15.

In a statement, the group said the mis-

sion, comprised of two main civilian boats escorted by 100 small fishing vessels, will assert the Philippines’ sovereign rights within the country’s Exclu-

Batangas gov. to marry again at 80 years old

Crazy delicious?

Japan’s onigiri with armpit sweat

Ledesma reminded PhilHealth members that heat stroke is a medical emergency.

“Let us stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures; wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and use hats or umbrellas; and take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas,” he said.

“At the first instance when one shows signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion such as fatigue, dizziness, head-

ache, vomiting, and light-headedness, it is best to seek medical attention. Call our hotline (02) 8662-2588 and mobile numbers 0998-8572957, 0968-8654670, 0917-1275987 and 0917-1109812 so we can assist you,” Ledesma added.

To avoid heat-related illnesses, Health Secretary Teodoro Hermosa advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

“This is an exposure illness. Let us avoid recreational activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” Herbosa said.

“Use a wet towel and hydrate. My tip for hydration is very simple – get a glass of water, add a pinch of salt, then you will have electrolytes,” the

DOH chief added.

For his part, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Monday urged the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education to revert to the June to March academic calendar.

DepEd earlier suspended in-person classes in all public schools for two days due to the extreme heat.

Many schools in the country have no air-conditioning, leaving students to swelter in crowded, poorly ventilated classrooms.

Zubiri said he withdrew his proposed Senate Bill No. 788 that seeks to synchronize the school year to start

in August.

“In an ideal world, we do want to be in sync with international school calendars to give our students a better chance at getting into programs abroad. But the reality is that the August calendar has proven to be disruptive to our education system, and even dangerous to the health of our children and school staff,” Zubiri said.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, for his part, noted concerns over the potential learning losses of school-aged children, especially for those who have unstable internet access at home with the suspension of in-person classes due to the extreme heat.

El

level in Angat Dam lowers by almost 0.4 meters or half a meter every day. So we need to have a little intervention,” Environment Undersecretary Carlos Primo David said.

The water level in Angat Dam, which supplies around 90 percent of the water needs of Metro Manila, Rizal, and portions of Cavite and Bulacan, is currently at 188.45 meters, while its minimum operation level is 180 meters.

For his part, DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said damage to agriculture has reached P4.39 billion, with the Mimaropa region logging the highest damages at P1.7 billion to date.

“Western Visayas posted the second biggest damage at P1.02 billion while the two provinces that were hardest hit by the intense hot spell are Mindoro and Palawan,” he said.

peak demands happened on April 24, it also surpassed our projection by almost 100 megawatts,” he said.

As of 1 p.m. on Monday, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) announced a “yellow alert”” over the Luzon grid from 2 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The Visayas grid also pegged a yellow alert from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

“The extension of yellow alert in Luzon and declaration of yellow alert in Visayas is due to increase in forecasted demand.” the NGCP said.

According to NGCP, EDC-Leyte A Maha Unit 1 (160MW) also went on unplanned outage at 10:23AM, while power shared through the MindanaoVisayas interconnection also plunged with the deration of GNPK 4 from 115MW to 61MW.”

NGCP explained that yellow alerts are raised when the operating margin is inadequate to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement.

Meanwhile, the country’s biggest

the legislative session.

Romualdez reiterated his commitment while expressing deep concern about the widening gap between farmgate and retail prices of essential commodities, especially rice.

power retailer warned that power demand could further spike in May after the actual peak demand reached 9,301 megawatts on April 24, surpassing the 2025 forecast of 9,226 MW.

Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) data showed that actual peak demand in 2023 was at 8,438 MW. Forecasted demand for 2024 was at 8,791 MW.

Meralco senior vice president and head of networks Froilan Savet said the difference in peak demand from last year is at 863 MW, which is greater than the capacity of the highest generating unit (GNPD with 668 MW) in the Luzon grid.

“The demand is expected to rise further in the coming weeks as we enter May, which typically marks the peak demand of the year,” Savet said.

Meralco chairman Manuel Pangilinan called for the construction of more conventional power plants to meet the country’s increasing power demand amid scorching temperatures, which has resulted to red and yellow alerts in the grid.

“You really have to build more capable, more capacities in the system. To be able to accommodate these unexpected changes that could happen, and that is

He said there will be no let-up in the fight against hoarding, profiteering, and smuggling of agricultural products, ensuring fair prices for both farmers and consumers.

“The discrepancy between farmgate and retail prices of basic goods is alarming and warrants immediate attention,”

Romualdez said.

“We cannot ignore the plight of our farmers, who are struggling to make ends

#ANONGBALITA

Batangas gov. to marry again at 80 years old

BATANGAS Governor Hermilando

“Dodo Mandanas will marry again next month.

The 80-year-old widower announced it during a flag raising ceremony at the provincial capitol.

“Sa mga Marites dyan, ang governor ay ikakasal na,” he said. Mandanas is set to marry lawyer Angelica Chua on May 8, according

to a congratulatory message posted by his political party, the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino.

“The Partido Demokratiko Pilipino wishes the couple happiness, blessings and prosperity,” PDP said in a Facebook post. Mandanas became a widow in 2022 with the passing of his wife, Regina Reyes-Mandanas.

Crazy delicious? Japan’s onigiri with armpit sweat

FANCY an onigiri?

One of Japan’s oldest snacks is getting a bizarre twist – infused with armpit sweat.

Young Japanese women prepare the onigiri – a delicious combination of vegetables and meat inside a rice ball that is wrapped in seaweed – and shape it into a ball using their armpits, South China Morning Post reported yesterday.

The report said all the ingredients and the body parts they come into contact with are disinfected.

The onigiri with a twist is then sold at fancy restaurants, fetching for as much as 10 times that of regular rice balls, SCMP said.

A diner who tried the armpit delicacy said there was no difference in taste, the report added.

Swift’s new album debuts at No. 1 on Billboard 200

TAYLOR Swift’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” debuted at number one on Billboard 200.

“My mind is blown,” Swift wrote on Instagram.

“I’m completely floored by the love you’ve shown this album. 2.6 million are you actually serious?

Thank you for listening, streaming, and welcoming Tortured Poets into your life. Feeling completely overwhelmed,” she added.

Billboard said Swift’s newest album sold more than 2.6 million units in its first week.

“She is the only act with seven different albums to each sell at least 1 million copies in a single week in the modern era,” Billboard said.

“The Tortured Poets Department” is Swift’s 14th album to rank number one on Billboard.

now happening,” Pangilinan said.

He added that participants of the interruptible load program (ILP) helped reduce demand but this is not a sustainable scenario.

He said the lack of available capacity also affected the prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, the trading floor of electricity.

“There’s supposedly a vibrant spot market, and we can’t do that with sufficient real and dependable capacities available. And we are paying for that in terms of very, very thin reserves,” Pangilinan said.

He said the renewable energy power plants being built today have low-capacity factor thus there is a need for baseload capacities such as coal or gas.

“Whether it be the coal or gas, again, there’s got to be some guidance given to us as to where we should turn,” Pangilinan said. “We need conventional, dependable power plants. So, that we don’t get these crazy situations when one particular large plant is down.”

Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho said the company anticipates a challenging power supply situation

throughout this dry season, coincidental with the El Niño phenomenon.

“We remain vigilant as we work with energy industry players in implementing demand-side management programs to help lessen the strain on the power grid and continuously deliver stable and reliable service to consumers. We also continue to proactively encourage more participants to join the ILP, which embodies bayanihan among private sector players, as this proves to be valuable during this critical season,” he said.

Amid all the interlocking problems of high demand, power plant outages, and the El Niño phenomenon, President Ferdinand Marcos said there is no “artificial” power crisis in the country.

In an interview, the President said the continuous increase in power supply use was due to the impact of the extremely hot weather.

“No, it’s definitely not an artificial crisis because the power systems are really overloaded,” the President said.

The President assured that the government is closely monitoring the country’s power sector as the red and yellow alerts have been raised in various power grids nationwide.

The unusually hot weather in the country was expected to last until mid-May, the state weather bureau said as extreme heat scorched Southeast Asia in recent days.

Global temperatures hit record highs last year, and the United Nations’ weather and climate agency said Asia was warming at a particularly rapid pace.

The Philippines ranked among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

The DA said it has provided P2.16 billion worth of interventions to farmers and fishers, including P1.05 billion worth of financial assistance to affected farmers.

This, De Mesa said, involved the release of P5,000 to affected farmers tilling not more than two hectares of land.

Farmers have also received assistance in kind amounting to P638 million worth of farm inputs such as seeds, fertilizers and other farm implements.

The DA likewise provided P295 million worth of small-scale irrigation projects.

The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), the agricultural insurance unit of the DA, provided indemnification to about 7,322 farmers, totaling about P68 million.

meet, nor can we turn a blind eye to the burden placed on consumers,” he added.

To address this pressing issue, the House Committee on Trade and Industry convened on Monday to receive briefings from relevant government agencies regarding the implementation of laws and programs governing pricing mechanisms and regulations for basic necessities and prime commodities.

Romualdez indicated that the briefing marked the start of a congressional inquiry, in aid of legislation, into the widening gap between farmgate and retail prices of rice and other essential goods. He noted the stability of farmgate prices for rice, poultry, pork, and onions over the past three months, indicating that there should be no sudden increase in the prices of these items.

peace deal between MILF and the government, which is not yet fully implemented, according to LBO.

He also urged people to safeguard those rights, and at the same time empower yourselves, and take part in our shared task of nation-building, he added.

He also reassured BARMM of the honest, orderly, and credible conduct of the electoral process.

Previously, the League of Bangsamoro Organizations called on President Marcos to extend the Bangsamoro Transition Authority until 2028, which would postpone the scheduled BARMM elections in 2025.

“This extension period is indispensable for both parties to consolidate their efforts towards achieving a successful signing of the exit agreement as envisioned in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB),” LBO spokesperson Mahdi Amella said.

The BTA extension is crucial for the

On this note, the President affirmed the government’s commitment to develop further infrastructure projects in Mindanao under the ‘Build, Better, More’ program, during the inauguration of the largest Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project II (MMIP II) in Pikit, Cotabato, on Monday.

The MMIP II, situated in Villarica, Midsayap, is poised to provide water to over 10,000 hectares of farmland spanning Pikit, Aleosan in Cotabato, and Pagalungan and Datu Montawal in Maguindanao, which is twice the size of Manila.

Marcos envisioned that more than 4,000 farmers, including former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants, would reap the benefits of abundant harvests amid the El Niño phenomenon.

“At this juncture, allow me to make

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) distributed more than 60,000 animals and about 111 alternative livelihood projects for affected fishermen and their families.

Cloud seeding operations by the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), done mostly in the Magat Dam reservoir, provided additional irrigation support to farmers.

a commitment. It’s not just irrigation that will flow into your lands. There are many more agricultural projects to come,” President Marcos asserted during his address at the inauguration ceremony in Brgy. Bago Inged.

He further assured residents, particularly those in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), that the ‘Build Better More’ program transcends urban-centric development, extending its reach through rural and nationwide initiatives.

Additionally, President Marcos underscored the MMIP II’s role in bolstering Mindanao’s agricultural sector, emphasizing its significance beyond supplying water to farmlands.

“The MMIP II canal is not merely a waterway or a source of life; it is a wellspring of hope for our nation. Without water, there are no farms. Without farms, there are no food. No food, no life. Therefore, water is life,” President Marcos said.

Monforte said.

and dispute between the Philippines and China, where Filipino frontliners are constantly harassed, and fisherfolk are deprived of their livelihood, the group said.

“The primary objectives of the mission are to conduct a ‘peace and solidarity regatta’ within our EEZ, during which symbolic markers/buoys emblazoned with the rallying cry ‘WPS, Atin Ito!’ (WPS is ours!) will be placed to reinforce our country's territorial integrity. We will also explore the possibility of delivering essential supplies, including fuel, to Filipino fishers operating in the area,” said Akbayan president Rafaela David, who is a Coconvenor of Atin Ito.

Atin Ito said that it has invited international observers to join the mission to monitor and document the situation in the West Philippine Sea and witness firsthand the challenges faced by Filipino fishers and frontliners, emphasizing the global significance of upholding maritime law and freedom of navigation.

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz meanwhile conducted live firing exercises together with BRP Davao del Sur, USS Harpers Ferry, and USS Somerset off the waters of mainland Palawan.

Commander Jennifer Monforte, the captain of BRP Ramon Alcaraz said that the gunnery exercise will enhance the capability of the sailors onboard the vessel and their proficiency in targeting surface contacts while at cruising speed.

“This exercise is conducted to show the unity of two nations in promoting regional peace, security, and stability,”

The participating vessels simulate the gunnery exercise targeting a floating buoy pegged as "Killer Tomato" by the sailors onboard the vessel.

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz scored several hits at the target as well as the USS Somerset and BRP Davao del Sur using their .50caliber guns on deck.

Meanwhile, during the live-firing exercise, a Chinese Navy ship appeared and sailed behind the USS Harpers Ferry, hindering the said warship to do the gunnery exercise due to the Chinese sailing within the 9 nautical miles exercise perimeter.

CNS Dongdiao, a People's Liberation Army-Navy vessel, a classified as an Electronic and Surveillance Warfare vessel tailed the US vessel preventing USS Harpers Ferry to continue with the live-firing exercise.

Vince Lopez

TRO vs. PUV modernization sought

By Rey E. Requejo

TRANSPORT groups led by PISTON on Monday urged the Supreme Court (SC) to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the government’s April 30 deadline for the full implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.

In its supplemental petition with an urgent reiterative motion for the issuance of a TRO and/or a writ of preliminary injunction, the petitioners cited the amendment in Department Order (DO) No. 2017-011 issued by the Department of Transportation on June 19, 2017, which is also known as the blueprint of the PUV modernization program.

IN BRIEF

Lawmakers give tribute to Pidi Barzaga

THE House of Representatives on Monday adopted House Resolution (HR) 1691 expressing the chamber’s profound condolences to the family of Rep. Elpidio

“Pidi” Barzaga Jr. of the lone district of Dasmariñas City, Cavite province. Barzaga died on April 27 in California, United States at the age of 74. He is survived by his wife, Dasmariñas City Mayor Jennifer Austria-Barzaga, and sons Francisco, Elpidio III, and Lorenzo.

Following the adoption of the resolution, the House adjourned early as a gesture of respect for the late lawmaker. The resolution was principally authored by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales, Jr., Deputy Speaker David Suarez, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, Senior Deputy Minority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, and Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, and Jude Acidre. Maricel V. Cru

QC kicks o StartUp business competition

IN a bid to harness the entrepreneurial spirit among the youth, the Quezon City government kicked off StartUp QC, its highly anticipated business plan competition for students with 39 teams representing various universities and colleges.

“We have always believed in the power of youth to drive economic growth and innovation,” Local Economic Investment Promotions chief Jay Gatmaitan said.

“By providing a platform for young minds to showcase their ideas and talents, we aim to cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship that will shape the future of our economy,” he added. The competition promises to ignite innovation, encourage the youth to turn to entrepreneurship, and in the long run, create job opportunities, and embed proactive pursuit of economic resilience from the ground up. Rio N. Araja

Agents intercept marijuana, vape pens

THE Bureau of Customs–Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted 2,536 grams of marijuana and 70 pieces of vape pens containing cannabis oil with an aggregate estimated value of P3,554,600 concealed inside five parcels declared as car seat covers, coffee mugs, and books from the US and Canada.

Following the X-ray and K9 inspection, potential contrabands were detected concealed in the subject parcels. A subsequent physical examination revealed dried leaves suspected to be Marijuana or Kush, along with vape pens containing cannabis oil. The collected samples were sent to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for laboratory testing and confirmation, which turned out positive: the leaves were determined as Marijuana, and vape pens were found to contain cannabis oil, respectively. Both are considered dangerous drugs and substances as defined under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

The petitioners noted that in its original petition with prayer for a TRO, they called for the nullification of seven issuances including DO No. 2017-011.

However, on Dec. 29, 2023, or nine days after they filed the said petition, DOTr promulgated DO No. 2023-022, providing the guidelines on the imple-

‘NO‘ TO MODERNIZATION.

mentations of PUVMP, superseding DO No. 2017-011.

The petitioners noted that DO No. 2023-022 inserted specific additional requirements on consolidation and management operations that were previously not included in the assailed DO No. 2017-011.

Essentially, the petitioners pointed out that the new DO No. 2023022 includes the assailed forced consolidation in its technical requirements and directs the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to “adopt a policy on the consolidation of certificates of public convenience (CPCs) and substitution of units”, which is not found in DO 2017-011.

“The Omnibus Franchising Guidelines issued on June 19, 2017 is the primary document that was issued by respondent Department of Transportation (DOTr) where the other issuances by respondent LTFRB derive authority from,” the supplemental petition stated.

“The surreptitious promulgation of DO 2023-022 after DO 2017-011 had been assailed in court is suspect, or odd at best. Petitioners note that DO 2023-022 contains substantial changes from its previous version,” it said.

The petitioners pointed out that originally the consolidation of franchises was not a priority in the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines.

DMW chief to visit Saudi; tackle OFW claims

DEPARTMENT of Migrant

Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac will visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) next month to tackle the unpaid salaries and other benefits of some 10,000 displaced overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) whose companies went bankrupt from 2015 to 2016.

Cacdac further said: “On our list of topics for discussion with our Saudi counterparts is the continuing disbursement of claims due our workers.”

Cacdac said the visit is expected to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries further, even as it hopes to move the matter of the claims closer to completion.

Among the bilateral matters up for discussion are the strengthening of institutional mechanisms ensuring fair, ethical, and safe recruitment and employment of OFWs and Saudi Arabia’s request for more Filipino workers to help in its ambitious Vision 2030 development program. Over 10,000 OFWs, as well as thousands of other foreign workers in Saudi Arabia, lost their jobs after their companies declared bankruptcy and folded up between 2015 and 2016.

A major turning point in the long-drawn-out legal disposition of the claims cases happened in November 2022 during a meeting between President Marcos and

Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MBS) when the latter said the Saudi government was ready to take on the financial settlement of the claims.

During the meeting, the Crown Prince informed President Marcos that his government was setting aside a 2 billion Saudi riyal fund for this purpose. In November and December 2023, some 1,500 Saudi claimants started receiving their claims checks from the Saudi Alinma Bank, representing the amounts due to them from their bankrupt companies.

Cacdac is hopeful the next tranche of claims check distribution will occur during the second quarter of 2024.

TESDAMAN

IN AKLAN. Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva graced the celebration of the 68th Aklan Day as the guest speaker on Thursday.

Villanueva highlighted the important role of the province in the country’s tourism sector. Villanueva also led the educational assistance payout to 1,000 students from the 17 towns of Aklan and the groundbreaking ceremony of the Aklan Sports Training and Wellness Center.

Poe to MIAA: Address airport aircon issues

By Joel E. Zurbano

SENATOR Grace Poe is urging the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) management to promptly address the malfunctioning airconditioning systems and elevators causing passenger inconvenience.

“At every airport, we want to give every traveler a warm welcome. It seems that the warm in NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) was literal,” the senator said in a statement.

“As the hot weather continues to scorch us, we want to remind all the country’s airports to beef up the maintenance of aircon, electricity, and similar facilities to avert breakdowns and accidents,” she said.

Last Saturday, the airport management stated that a technical issue led to the temporary shutdown of two of its cooling towers in NAIA Terminal 3.

“This technical challenge regrettably resulted in warmer temperatures inside the terminal. To mitigate the impact, Iwata evaporative fans have been strategically placed in critical areas to enhance air circulation and provide localized cooling, offering relief to passengers and staff during this temporary disruption in the air conditioning system,” it stated.

MIAA assured that the engineering team is actively addressing the situation to restore full functionality of all cooling towers as swiftly as possible.

“We apologize for any inconvenience that the situation is causing to everyone. Rest assured that we are doing all we can to bring back the air conditioning system to its full functionality,” it added.

The power outages and other technical glitches at the airport during peak travel dates have recently caused a lot of frustration for air travelers.

Cops arrest main suspect in Jumalon case

THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) announced the arrest of the suspected gunman in the November 2023 killing of Misamis Occidental radio broadcaster Juan “DJ Johnny” Jumalon in Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte.

“This case is as good as completely solved,” said PTFoMS Executive Director Usec. Paul M. Gutierrez, as he cited the report from Misamis Occidental Provincial Police Office director, P/Col. Dwight Monato, on the arrest of Jolieto Dumaog Mangumpit or “Ricky.” Mangumpit is the identified gunman who shot dead Jumalon inside his residence in Calamba, Misamis Occidental in the early morning of Nov. 5, 2023, while he was broadcasting on air.

In his report to Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Remulla, PTFoMS Co-Chair Press Secretary Cheloy Garafil and Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin, Gutierrez said Mangumpit was arrested by joint operatives and intelligence personnel of the Misamis Occidental and Zamboanga Del Norte Police Offices, past 3:00 am, in Dipolog City, based on an arrest warrant for murder issued by Judge Michael Lotao Ajoc of Regional trial Court (RTC) Branch 36, 10th Judicial Region, Misamis Occidental.

Aside from the killing of Jumalon, Monato told Gutierrez that Mangumpit also has eight outstanding warrants of arrest for murder, frustrated murder, direct assault, and violation of the anti-drug law. He is also listed in the province’s most wanted criminals.

“Finally, the quest for justice for the family of Jumalon will be served with the arrest of Mangumpit. All three suspects directly involved in the killing of Jumalon are now in the hands of the law,” the official said. “We are optimistic that given the weight of evidence against them, they would be convicted by the court.”

POPE STAMPS. Department of Transportation Undersecretary Kim Robert C. De Leon shows his collection of old stamps with images of the Pope during the opening of an exhibit at the Robinsons Manila on April 29. De Leon currently holds the Guiness World Records for having the largest stamp collection featuring the Pope. Danny Pata

Drive vs. erring NCR motorists nets P26.5m

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Monday announced the apprehension of over 10,000 motorists in Metro Manila alone, resulting in revenue generation of P26,498,535 in the first quarter of 2024.

LTO-National Capital Region director Roque Verzosa credited their intensified campaign against traffic violators. He cited a significant government revenue increase of 204.91 percent in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

The number of apprehended drivers in the first quarter compared to the same period in 2023 saw a significant increase of 186.40 percent (3,662 in 2023 vs. 10,488 in 2024).

Based on the latest data from the LTO-NCR’s Traffic Safety Unit, the Law Enforcement Unit and Law Enforcement Team apprehended 8,682 motorists for various traffic law violations from January to March.

Out of the 4,982 apprehended motorists for violating Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, there were 764 cases involving unregistered motor vehicles in line with the no-registration, no-travel policy. Rio N. Araja

BIR rolls out roadshow on ease of paying taxes

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Monday rolled out in Metro Manila its Ease of Paying Taxes (EOPT) Roadshow (Metro Manila Cluster) in ceremony held at the at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. The roadshow aims to educate taxpayers on the updates brought about by the EOPT law to the country’s taxation system.

The BIR will be holding roadshows all over the country to educate taxpayers about the EOPT law and the new regulations issued by the BIR in furtherance of the EOPT law.

These exercises are a manifestation of BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui’s commitment to his standard of excellent taxpayer service, a part of which is having an inclusive approach to taxpayers.

“Taxation is for everyone. Everyone needs to be educated with our system of taxation. The BIR aims to create an inclusive environment with taxpayers,”Lumagui said.

The BIR will reach out to taxpayers so they can be informed of their tax obligations. The taxpayer can also reach out to the BIR for comments or suggestions on improving tax administration in the Philippines. The BIR and taxpayers are partners in nation-building,” he added.

Taguig mayor supports Rembo robotics team

TAGUIG City Mayor Laarni Cayetano on Monday said her administration has provided significant support to the West Rembo Elementary School Robotics Team, enabling them to compete in the 2024 VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas, Texas.

“Taguig’s commitment to education is stronger than ever, especially with the addition of the schools in the EMBO barangays,” said Cayetano who personally met the robotics team over the weekend.

“Our investment in our youth’s education continues to pay off with students winning and bringing home national and international recognition in mathematics, science, technology, robotics, journalism, and research,” she added.

West Rembo Elementary School principal Alma Adona thanked Mayor Cayetano for the vital assistance provided. Meanwhile, student-contestants Zyric Abines, Cassandra Elyze Cruz, Rio Dames, and Andrew Lejarso expressed their gratitude to the city chief executive and other local officials “for the great support that ensured their participation in the robotics competition.”

The robotics team, composed of students from various public schools in Taguig like the Sen. Renato Compañero Cayetano Memorial Science and Technology High School, Taguig Integrated School, and R.P. Cruz Elementary School, has consistently excelled and secured awards in international competitions in Thailand, Taiwan, and Germany.

Joel Zurbano

DENR: Help us draw mangrove map

By Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) urges the public to take an active role in the rehabilitation and conservation of mangrove forests by helping validate on the ground the mangrove map created through

satellite data.

With over 600 sites and 30,000 validation points across the country as targets, the DENR aims to finalize the field validation of the mangrove map by June.

So far, the project has received less than five percent of the targeted submissions, underscoring the need for urgent action and increased participation by the public.

Citing the need “to measure what we treasure” through the power of citizen science, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga called for collaborative efforts and encouraged everyone to take an active role in the mangrove initiative

to protect and promote the country’s ecosystems.

“Amid the climate emergency and destruction of mangroves, everyone has the ability to make a difference by tracking and protecting our natural resources,” Loyzaga said.

The National Mangrove Map 2023, a satellite-derived map developed by the DENR and the Philippine Space Agency, was meant to serve as the basis for making informed decisions and developing policies aimed at restoring and protecting Philippine mangroves.

Mangroves face a decline and are continually threatened due to human ac-

Lawmaker belies charges PBBM barred Digong rally

A CONGRESSMAN has picked up the cudgels for the Marcos administration over insinuations that the Marcos administration prevented a projected peace rally of former President Rodrigo Duterte in Bustos, Bulacan.

“Even if we rewind it from the time President Marcos ran his campaign in 2022, he was even singled out among the candidates for not attending debates and the like, but he just went on and let his critics be. He just let them do what they think was right for them,” House Assistant majority leader and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun said.

“How much more now that he is already President? It’s the last thing his

administration needs – political polarization. Remember, he and now Vice President Sara Duterte even ran on the theme of unity, which they coined as UniTeam,” Khonghun pointed out. Khonghun, and a member of the House of Representatives’ so-called “Young Guns,” also cited the personal grudges that evolved between Duterte and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, which the President simply shrugged off.

“Every administration has its own share of hits and misses, and perhaps this government is no exception. But to say that the national government is engaged in harassment is simply unfair,” Khonghun said, adding that the Duterte camp

Solon hails extension of terms of contract workers

By Maricel V. Cruz

A RANKING member of the Representatives has lauded President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s move to extend the employment of contractual workers in the government service whose contracts are due to expire in December this year.

“Napakaagang pamasko ito para sa ating mga COS (contract of service) at JO (job orders) sa pamahalaan. Marami-raming mga kababayan natin ang makikinabang sa direktibang ito. Ngayon, makapagtatrabaho sila nang walang pangamba na pagkatapos ng taon ay mawawalan sila ng kabuhayan (This is a very early Christmas for our COSs and JOs in government. Many of our countrymen will benefit from this directive.

Now, they can work without fear that by the end of the year, they will lose their livelihood), “ said Rizal Rep. Fidel Nograles, chairman of the House Committee on Labor and Employment.

The President’s move was seen to benefit around 832,812 COS and JO employees who comprise 29.68 percent (as of June 30, 2023) of the government workforce. The figure marks a 29.71-percent increase from 2022.

Nograles also expressed his full support for the President’s pronouncement for government agencies to develop COS and JO workers’ skills and capabilities by re-educating and training them with the help of higher learning institutions, and enabling them to pass the civil service examination. “Of course, we want our civil service

to be composed of competent people who are able to fulfill the unique demands of public service.”

“Kung mabibigyan ng karampatang training ang ating mga JO at COS, mabibigyan sila ng pagkakataon na makuha ang mga plantilla positions na nahihirapan rin tayong punuin (If our JOs and COS can be given competent training, they will be given the opportunity to get the plantilla positions that we also have difficulty filling),” Nograles said. Allowing JO and COS employees to attain plantilla positions would eliminate their precarious situation, as they would be entitled to various benefits not otherwise granted to temporary employees such as insurance and leave benefits, Nograles added.

even held rallies in Cebu, Davao

Tagum cities in the past.

“What the President has been repeating is for government to unite in order to achieve the goals that we all want,” Khonghun stressed, refuting allegations of former presidential spokesman Harry Roque that their April 28 “Majisug Peace Rally” – or “Brave Peace Rally” was called off in Bulacan to avert any potential trouble.

“What we’re saying is that while you may disagree with some policies of the government, you can always demonstrate your gripes in a very decent and respectful way,” Khonghun said. Maricel V. Cruz

tivities and natural disturbances, DENR raised.

Mangroves are productive salt-tolerant ecosystems that play a critical role in coastal protection, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, poverty alleviation, and food security.

The initiative calls for the private and public sectors, including private individuals and organizations, to visit coastal barangays and verify the presence or absence of mangroves with the easy-to-use ODK Collect app available in the Google Play Store, or they can submit drone images of local mangroves using the same app.

Navotas gov’t adopts new work schedule for employees

THE Navotas City government will adopt a new work schedule starting on Wednesday (May 2).

Mayor John Rey Tiangco issued and Executive Order (EO) indicating the change of working hours in the city government from 8am-5pm to 7am-4pm in accordance with a Metropolitan Manila Council (MMC) resolution.

“Apart from helping ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila, this change in work schedule will also give workers more time to spend with their families or pursue other meaningful endeavors,” Tiangco said.

Departments, offices, and units with shifting schedules, such as traffic management, emergency preparedness and response, and peace and order, are not covered by the EO, to ensure continued public service delivery.

Coaches of the NavotaAs Scholarship Program will also retain their schedule, as well as the classes of the Navotas Polytechnic College and the Navotas Vocational Training and Assessment Institute.

Among all public health facilities in the city, only the health center at Brgy. Tanza 2 and the Navotas City Hospital will operate in their usual work schedule.

Tiangco also strongly encouraged barangays in the city to issue similar executive orders implementing or modifying their respective working hours in line with the MMC resolution.

and

BATANES ETHNIC FESTIVAL. Sablang, Batanes celebrates its 107th anniversary with a week-long Vakul and Kanayi Festival. Vakul refers to the women’s headdress while Kanayi is a term for the hand-crafted natural-fiber coat the Ivatan menfolk wear over the ages.

FREE RIDES. The Malabon City government provides free rides for stranded commuters amid the expected shortage of mass transport arising from a strike by public utility drivers and operators protesting the national government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. Andrew Rabulan

SPLENDID ATTIRES. Fine feathers and fabrics are sewn together to make up splendid attires such as these worn by participants in a costume competition at the New Farmers Plaza in Cubao, Quezon City. Manny Marcelo

ASC marks its golden anniversary

WHEN Martial Law through Proclamation 1081 was declared by then president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., I was appointed to be a member of the Media Accountability Council to oversee media with Primitivo Mijares, who was very close to the President and in charge of print media, with me as chairman of television and the foreign press with Rey Pedroche for radio.

I was then the President of the Manila Overseas Press Club and Vice President of Channel 9. The Manila Overseas Press Club was then the oldest Press organization, having been organized by foreign correspondents who covered World War II in the Philippines.

Having press control in mind, I thought of an idea to revive the press and get out of the ambit of Martial Law.

I called for a meeting among all television practitioners and broached to them my idea of self-regulation.

I consulted then Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile who was the administrator of Martial Law and broached my idea, and no surprise, he agreed with me. We consulted the President and he agreed with my idea.

Thus, I called on TV practitioners, then jobless because under Proclamation 1081 all local media outlets were closed.

(Editor’s Note: The so-called Big Four at the time – Reuters, AP, UPI and Agence France-Presse – and foreign-based newspapers and broadcast media were allowed to operate with their own bureaus in Manila.)

At a meeting in one of the closed radio stations we agreed with my idea of self regulation.

Having been the one who came out with the idea of self-regulation, I was elected president, the first president, of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas which is very much alive and kicking today.

Our first job, if I recall, was to adopt a Code of Standards for advertising -how advertising could be placed in 30 seconds, in one minute and in an hour of television time.

I must give credit to the committee assigned for this purpose and, in no time, the group came out with the Code of Standards which is still upheld today.

For a bit of history, it is now the Ad Standards Council of the Philippines, which on May 7 will mark its Golden Anniversary or 50 years of existence.

The Ads Standards Council or ASC is a self-regulatory organization and, through its screening committee, reviews and approves advertising ma-

terials in the Philippines prior to its placement or broadcast.

This includes television, radio, print, internet, out of home and cinema ads. The materials are reviewed if they are compliant with the prevailing advertising code of ethics.

The ASC was established by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas, Philippine Association of National Advertisers, and the Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies-Philippines.

It started operations on March 31, 2008 when the three organizations signed an agreement with the Advertising Board of the Philippines.

—“—

There can only be one Imeldific. Liza A. Marcos as a First Lady has her own lifestyle legacy to make

Under the deal, the ASC took over the screening function of the AdBoard through its Advertising Content and Review Committee.

The AdBoard became defunct in July 2016.

I must extend to this council my heartfelt congratulations for upholding the ethics of advertising. I am proud to be part of its beginning. More power.

‘Fierce’ Lady

With the First Lady Liza A. Marcos calling herself the “Fierce” Lady, I wonder with malice towards none if she had intended to be like Imelda Marcos who was the First Lady of Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.

I believe that no one can come close to Imelda Marcos as a First Lady with all her achievements and accomplishments during the Martial Law regime.

There can only be one Imeldific.

Liza A. Marcos as a First Lady has her own lifestyle legacy to make.

The ‘Self-Appointed Son of God’

To all intents and purposes, Apollo Quiboloy, the founder of the church known as the Kingdom of Jesus Christ and “self-appointed son of God ‘’ may still be a fugitive.

But I believe sooner or later the long arm of the law will catch up with him as he plays hide and seek in the highlands of Davao City.

With all the warrants of arrest issued against him by Congress and the Courts of Law, anybody in effect can just arrest him and make him face all the consequences of all the cases brought against him.

G7 holds ‘strategic’ talks in climate hotspot Italy

TURIN, Italy – G7 ministers meet for environment and climate change talks in Turin on Monday, with experts urging the highly industrialized countries to use their political clout, wealth and technologies to end fossil fuel use.

The Group of Seven meeting in the northern Italian city is the first big political session since the world pledged at the UN’s COP28 climate summit in December to transition away from coal, oil and gas.

It comes as a new report by a global climate institute shows the G7 is falling far short of its targets.

Hundreds of protesters demonstrated in Turin on Sunday, some burning photos of the G7 leaders as they accused them of failing future generations over the climate crisis.

Rome, which holds the G7 rotating presidency, says it wants Turin to be “a strategic link” between last year’s Conference of Parties in Dubai and COP29, which will take place in November in Azerbaijan.

The aim is “to make the course set out by COP28 practical, real, concrete,” Italian Environment and Energy Security Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin said ahead of the meeting.

Italy, a climate change hotspot vulnerable to wildfires, drought and glacier retreat, is putting “biodiversity, ecosystems, warming seas” high on the agenda, he said.

Delegations from Dubai and Azerbaijan are in Turin, as well as from Brazil, which hosts the G20 this year.

Environment ministers from the G7, which includes Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the UK and the US, will meet for four working sessions over two days at the 17th century Palace of Venaria.

—“—

Rescuing future generations

THIS week, leaders from the Group of Seven started their four working sessions over two days in Turin, Italy, the first political session since the world pledged to transition away from coal, oil and gas.

The pledge was made through the UN’s COP28 climate summit in December, and now the G7 ministers are meeting for environment and climate change talks, with experts urging highly industrialized economies to use their political clout, wealth and technologies to end fossil fuel use.

The two-day meeting which ends today, with hundreds of protesters protesting outside the conference venue and accusing G7 leaders of failing future generations over the climate crisis, follows a new report by a global climate institute which shows the G7 is falling far short of its targets.

Which brings us back home, where the Philippines remains one of the fastest-growing developing countries where poverty is in decline but access to energy is rising and, with that, demand for energy services.

Fossil fuels still dominate the ener-

gy system, accounting for 78 percent of power generation in 2022.

The Philippines’ current energy mix highly favors fossil fuels, with coal, natural gas, and oil, primarily due to their low cost.

One study has suggested the Philippines, on the global warming frontline, must urgently phase out coal-fired power by 2035, and almost entirely phase out gas-fired generation by 2040.

—“—

We are glad the Philippine government has committed to limiting the future growth of greenhouse gas emissions emissions by implementing alternative policy options

The same finds this is not only feasible but will benefit the economy and provide more than a million jobs by 2050.

The Philippines’ power sector is not yet aligned with the country’s current emission reduction targets, let alone with 1.5˚C, so the government needs

AS A chronicler of societal ills and moral dilemmas, it’s incumbent upon me to shed light on the dark underbelly of our healthcare system.

The recent exposé surrounding Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc. and its alleged scheme to entice doctors with lavish rewards for prescribing its products goes beyond mere legal infractions; it strikes at the very heart of medical ethics and the sacred trust between healers and those in their care.

The Department of Health’s decision to initiate an inquiry into these damning allegations is a tacit acknowledgment of the severity of the situation.

This is not merely a debate over the merits of generic versus brand-specific medications; it’s a reckoning with the erosion of professional integrity and the commodification of patient well-being.

The insidious notion that physicians, tasked with safeguarding health, would succumb to pecuniary allurements at the expense of their patients’ welfare is nothing short of a betrayal of their sacred oath.

The modus operandi of Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., as illuminated by Senator JV Ejercito, epitomizes the ethical quagmire plaguing our medical landscape.

The entanglement of physicians in the promotion and distribution of pharmaceuticals, driven by personal gain, represents a flagrant conflict of interest.

The inducements of luxury cars, ex-

to strengthen those targets and align them with a 1.5˚C compatible emissions pathway.

This means a well-defined plan for an expedited coal phase-out and expanding renewable energy to 99 percent coverage by 2050, with experts suggesting the government must make this a top priority in its climate and energy policy.

The draft Philippines Energy Plan 2023-2050 sees a growth in renewables, but a substantially lower share in 2050 (at 63 percent-72 percent under different scenarios) than the near-100 percent renewables system needed to meet a Paris Agreement-compatible emissions pathway for the power sector.

We are glad the Philippine government, in earnest attempts to help reduce global climate change, has committed to limiting the future growth of greenhouse gas emissions by implementing alternative policy options, like carbon taxes, improvement of energy efficiency in both generation and consumption, diversification of the energy supply-mix, and accelerated development of renewable energy.

The country intends to reduce emissions by about 70 percent from different sectors, like energy, transport, waste, forestry, and industry, by 2030, compared to the business-as-usual scenario of emission levels between 2000 and 2030.

Exposing the moral rot infecting medical ethics

otic vacations, and opulent timepieces serve as damning evidence of the moral bankruptcy pervading our healthcare ecosystem.

Amidst this moral morass, Secretary of Health Teodoro Herbosa emerges as a lone voice of conscience, steadfast in his commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

His unwavering advocacy for ethical rigor in the face of institutional complicity is a beacon of hope in these troubled times.

—“—

Only through the uncompromising pursuit of truth and accountability can we hope to cleanse the tarnished soul of our healthcare system

By reminding the medical fraternity of their solemn duty to prioritize patient welfare above all else, he embodies the ethos of public service that should animate our healthcare system.

Senator Ejercito’s swift and resolute response to the Bell-Kenz debacle is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the principles of equity and justice.

His unwavering dedication to the Universal Health Care Act, aimed at curbing the financial burden on ordinary Filipinos, stands in stark contrast to the venality of those who seek to exploit the vulnerabilities of the sick and infirm for personal gain.

Yet, while commendable, such expressions of outrage and indignation must be met with tangible action.

Those found guilty of betraying their professional oath and exploiting the trust of their patients must be held to account under the full force of the law. The statutes delineated in the Medical Act of 1959 and the Professional Regulatory Commission Modernization Act of 2000 provide clear avenues for prosecution, and it is imperative that justice be swift and unequivocal.

As we navigate the turbid waters of this unfolding scandal, transparency and diligence must guide our path forward.

The collaboration between the Department of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and allied agencies, bolstered by the active engagement of medical associations, is essential to ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation.

Only through the uncompromising pursuit of truth and accountability can we hope to cleanse the tarnished soul of our healthcare system and restore faith in the sanctity of the healer-patient relationship.

reluctant to set a date.

for more accessible finance for vulnerable countries.

Italy says rare earths and renewables will be part of discussions with African delegations invited to Turin.

Canada, France, Germany and the UK are pushing for a global treaty to reduce plastics pollution, and are expected to use the G7 to rally a reluctant US and Japan.

France is expected to push for the G7 to phase out coal by 2030, but Japan is reluctant to set a date as minerals reuse, in a bid to stop overreliance on China, which dominates in green technologies.

Environmentalists want to know how they intend to follow through on pledges such as the agreement in Dubai to double energy efficiency rates and triple renewable capacity by 2030.

The talks will stress the need to diversify sources of critical materials key to renewable energy systems, as well

Climate watchers hope for a ramping up of support for less developed countries in decarbonizing their industrial production, with experts advising on particularly tricky sectors, like cement and steel.

There may be commitments on more funds for adaptation to climate change, and Italy said the G7 would discuss “innovative” financing models amid calls

Together the G7 makes up around 38 percent of the global economy and was responsible for 21 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, according to the Climate Analytics policy institute.

Not one member of the group is on track to meet existing emission reduction targets for 2030, managing instead to cut them by “at best around half of what is needed,” a report by the institute said last week.

The US finalized sweeping plans Thursday to curb emissions from fossil fuel plants, giving existing coal plants until 2032 to reduce their carbon dioxide output by 90 percent.

France is expected to push for the G7 to phase out coal by 2030, but Japan is

Germany -- Europe’s biggest emitter of greenhouse gases -- is unwilling to wean off gas, as is Italy.

Italy’s far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has vowed repeatedly to transform Italy into a gas hub for Europe, seeking new suppliers in the Mediterranean and Africa and expanding gas infrastructure.

Luca Bergamaschi, founder of Italian climate think tank ECCO, questioned Italy’s claim that gas was essential for its energy security, and said its interest in nascent technologies such as nuclear fusion is misguided.

G7 decisions “have a big impact on the markets and on the ideas and expectations of investors”, and Italy’s stewardship in Turin “will be watched closely”, he said. AFP

Hamas delegation to arrive in Egypt for Gaza truce talks

JERUSALEM – A Hamas delegation was scheduled to arrive Monday in Egypt, where it will respond to Israel’s latest proposal for a long-sought hostage-release deal and truce in the Gaza Strip after almost seven months of war.

Egypt, Qatar and the United States have been trying to mediate an agreement between Israel and Hamas for months, as the death toll in Gaza rises and calls for a deal intensify.

But despite intense pressure to reach a ceasefire, secure the release of hostages held in Gaza and allow more humanitarian aid into the war-battered territory, a deal has remained elusive.

The Palestinian Islamist group said Sunday it had no “major issues” with the content of Israel’s most recent offer for a truce.

“The atmosphere is positive unless there are new Israeli obstacles,” a sen-

ior Hamas official told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Humanitarians say the war has brought Gaza to the brink of famine, reduced much of it to rubble and raised fears of broader conflict.

At a market in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where Israeli officials have vowed to rout Hamas fighters, shoppers said prices of fresh vegetables have risen.

Mohammed Sarhan, 48, said 100 shekels ($26) used to buy enough for a week, but now it is “not enough for one meal for my family”.

More than one million Palestinians have taken shelter in the city.

Protesters in Israel are demanding that the government secure the freedom of hostages seized by militants during the unprecedented October 7 attack that triggered the war. AFP

White House urges ‘peaceful’ protests

WASHINGTON, DC – The White House insisted Sunday (Monday in Manila) that pro-Palestinian protests that have rocked US universities in recent weeks must remain peaceful, after police arrested around 275 people on four separate campuses over the weekend.

“We certainly respect the right of peaceful protests,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told ABC’s “This Week.”

CRISIS TOUR.

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (right) receives US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the Gulf Cooperation Council Secretariat in Riyadh on Monday. The top US diplomat heads to Israel later this week, where he is expected to press Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take the concrete and tangible steps US President Joe Biden demanded this month to improve the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. AFP

But, he added, “we absolutely condemn the anti-Semitism language that we’ve heard of late and certainly condemn all the hate speech and the

threats of violence out there.”

The wave of demonstrations began at Columbia University in New York but they have since spread rapidly across the country.

While peace has prevailed in many campuses, the number of protesters detained -- at times by police in riot gear using chemical irritants and tasers -- is rising fast.

They include 100 at Northeastern University in Boston, 80 at Washington University in St Louis, 72 at Arizona

Ukraine warns battlefield ‘worsened’ as

VOZDVYZHENKA, Ukraine –

Ukraine’s army leader has admitted that Kyiv’s position on the battlefield has worsened after Russian forces captured another village in the east, pressing their advantage in manpower and ammunition.

Russia’s troops are advancing in the eastern Donetsk region as Kyiv awaits the arrival of much-needed US weapons that it hopes will stabilize the fragile front lines.

“The situation at the front has worsened,” Ukrainian commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrsky said in a Facebook post Sunday.

Ukrainian troops had “retreated” westwards to new defensive lines in a section of the front that runs past the

city of Donetsk, controlled by pro-Russian forces since 2014.

Russia has “a significant advantage in forces and means” and had been able to notch up advances amid “heavy fighting”, Syrsky said.

“In some sectors the enemy had tactical success, and in some areas our troops managed to improve the tactical position,” he added.

Russia’s defense ministry earlier on Sunday claimed its troops had captured the village of Novobakhmutivka in the Donetsk region -- around 10 kilometres (six miles) north of Avdiivka, which they seized in February.

The stark assessment of the picture facing Ukrainian troops comes at the end of week of ups and downs for Kyiv.

9 face trial in Germany for alleged far-right coup plot vs. parliament

STUTTGART, Germany – The first members of a far-right group that allegedly plotted to attack the German parliament and overthrow the government will go on trial in Stuttgart on Monday. Nine suspected participants in the coup plot will take the stand in the first set of proceedings to open in the sprawling court case, split among three courts in three cities.

The suspects are accused of having participated in the “military arm” of the organization led by the minor aristocrat and businessman Prince Heinrich XIII Reuss.

The alleged plot is the most highprofile recent case of far-right violence, which officials say has grown to become the biggest extremist threat in Germany.

The organization led by Reuss was an eclectic mix of characters and included, among others, a former special forces soldier, a former far-right MP, an astrologer, and a well-known chef.

Reuss, along with other suspected senior members of the group, will face trial in the second of the three cases, in Frankfurt in late May.

The group aimed to install him as head of state after its planned takeover. AFP

Russia

State University and 23 at Indiana University. Among those arrested at Washington University was Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein, who faulted police for aggressive tactics she said provoked the sort of trouble they are meant to quell.

“This is about freedom of speech... on a very critical issue,” she told CNN shortly before her arrest Saturday.

“And there they are, sending in the riot police and basically creating a riot.”

Protesters at Yale University established a new encampment on Sunday, the school’s independent student newspaper reported, after a previous site was taken down by police days earlier, when dozens were arrested and charged with trespassing.

College administrators have struggled to find the best response, caught between the need to respect free-speech rights and the imperative of containing inflammatory and sometimes violently anti-Semitic calls by protesters. AFP

ChatGPT faces Austria complaint for ‘uncorrectable wrong answers’

VIENNA – A Vienna-based privacy campaign group said Monday it would file a complaint against ChatGPT in Austria, claiming the “hallucinating” flagship AI tool invents wrong answers, which creator OpenAI cannot correct.

NOYB (“None of Your Business”) said there was no way to guarantee the program provided accurate information. “ChatGPT keeps hallucinating -- and not even OpenAI can stop it,” the group said in a statement.

The company has openly acknowledged it cannot correct inaccurate information produced by its generative AI tool and has failed to explain where the data comes from and what ChatGPT stores about indi-

claims fresh gains

The United States finally approved

a $61 billion package of financial aid after months of political wrangling, unlocking much-needed arms for Ukraine’s stretched troops. But on the battlefield Russia chalked up more successes.

Its troops managed to make rapid advances in a narrow column to the northwest of Avdiivka.

In the village of Vozdvyzhenka, some eight kilometers from the fighting in Ocheretyne, AFP reporters saw civilians loading a small truck with furniture and belongings on Sunday.

“We’re going a long way from here... I don’t have time to talk because of the shelling,” one of them told AFP, before

climbing into the vehicle and speeding out of the village.

Soldiers on the side of a road in the woods said they had originally been sent to build defensive lines.

“But the situation has changed. We were told not to take the shovels but to stay and wait for orders. The Russians are attacking and advancing,” one told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Syrsky confirmed on Sunday that Russia had made some “tactical” progress in that part of the front, but said Moscow had not yet achieved what he called an “operational advantage”. He also said additional units were being deployed to replace those that had sustained heavy losses. AFP

78 tornadoes ravage Oklahoma, nearby Great Plains states in central US, 5 killed

WASHINGTON, DC – An exceptional number of tornadoes have ravaged parts of Oklahoma and nearby Great Plains states, leaving at least five dead, authorities and local media said Sunday.

After 78 tornadoes were reported Friday, mostly in Nebraska and Iowa, a separate weather system Saturday brought

35 tornado reports from northern Texas and Oklahoma to Missouri, the National Weather Service (NWS) said.

The storms dumped up to seven inches (18 centimeters) of rain in some places within hours, and meteorologists warned of a continuing danger of extreme weather Sunday, including flash flooding, hail

and more tornadoes.

cial media showing scores of buildings ripped apart. A postal

viduals, said the group.

Such errors are unacceptable for information about individuals because EU law stipulates that personal data must be accurate, NOYB argued.

“If a system cannot produce accurate and transparent results, it cannot be used to generate data about individuals,” said Maartje de Graaf, data-protection lawyer at NOYB.

“The technology has to follow the legal requirements, not the other way around.” ChatGPT “repeatedly provided incorrect information” about the birth date of NOYB founder Max Schrems “instead of telling users that it doesn’t have the necessary data”, said the group. AFP

IN BRIEF

Xi due in France on May 6-7

PARIS – Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to make a state visit to France on May 6 and 7, Paris announced on Monday, with war in Ukraine and the Middle East expected to be high on the agenda.

The visit to France marks the Chinese leader’s first European tour since the coronavirus pandemic.

“This visit takes place on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and follows on from the president’s visit to Beijing and Guangzhou in April 2023”, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said in a statement.

Xi is expected to visit Paris as well as the department of Hautes-Pyrenees in southwestern France.

The Chinese leader will stop in Hungary on May 8-10, the Central European country’s government announced last week. AFP

German ex-soldier in Russian spy case

DUSSELDORF, Germany – A German former soldier will go on trial on Monday accused of spying for Russia, as Berlin faces a surge in Moscow-linked espionage cases amid the Ukraine war.

The suspect, identified only as Thomas H. in line with German privacy laws, was arrested in August last year in the western city of Koblenz.

He is accused of passing information to Russian intelligence services that he obtained while working in the procurement unit of the German military, or Bundeswehr.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, Germany -- the secondlargest supplier of military aid to Kyiv -- has seen a jump in alleged spying cases linked to Moscow.

Thomas H. had been a career soldier, working at the army’s Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support Department. AFP

Sulphur, in south-central Oklahoma, was particularly hard hit late Saturday, with videos and images posted on so-

Governor Kevin Stitt, speaking Sunday from the hard-hit small town, said

MAJOR CHALLENGE. Pro-Palestine supporters gather in front of the entrance of Columbia University on Monday in New York City. The protests against Israel’s war with Hamas began at Columbia University earlier this month before spreading to campuses across the country. They have posed a major challenge to university administrators who are trying to balance campus commitments to free expression with complaints that the rallies have crossed a line. Police arrested 275 people on four separate campuses over the weekend. AFP

FISH FESTIVAL. Chefs prepare a broth with over 700kg of tilapia, a freshwater fish, during the Tilapia Regional Festival in Armazem, Brazil on Monday. Armazem has a population of just over 9,000 people and is the region’s leading producer of tilapia in ponds. AFP

PVL grudge matches up as race to finals heats up

CREAMLINE and Chery Tiggo may hold a slight psychological edge over Choco Mucho and Petro Gazz, but in a cutthroat semifinal phase of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, statistics and past results won’t matter.

For composure will be key as both matches are expected to be nail-biters, with every point crucial in the single-round semifinal phase. Teams have fine-tuned their offense and defense during the weekend break and strengthened communication.

That makes the race to the finals all the more interesting and intense as the Cool Smashers clash with the Flying Titans at 4 p.m. today (Tuesday) and the Angels colliding with the Crossovers at 6 p.m. before an expected overflow crowd at the Philsports Arena in Pasig. Coaches are likely to introduce surprise to disrupt opponents’ strategies, relying on their starting units for a strong start while utilizing their bench to keep their starters fresh in prolonged battles.

In their respective buildup to the semis, each team’s strategies and sentiments revealed a mix of determination and focus.

Koji Tsuzurabara, coach of the topseeded Angels, emphasized a gameby-game approach, urgi ng his team to concentrate solely on the task at hand, ignoring the distractions of rankings.

“I’m not thinking about the rankings, just one game (at a time). We need to concentrate,” he said.

Choco Mucho mentor Dante Alinsunurin, on the other hand, pinpointed service as a critical area for improvement, acknowledging its impact on their recent performances.

“Ilang games na na talagang mababa porsyento naming (sa service). Dun kami nag-focused sa training,” said Alinsunurin.

PSA Forum to tackle PH bid in Touch World Cup

THE three Philippine teams vying in the 2024 Touch World Cup in Nottingham, England serve as special guests in the resumption of the weekly Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday (April 30) at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The men’s, women’s, and mixed teams of the Philippine Touch Rugby will be represented by coordinator and former national team member Arabelle Jimenez in the session that starts at 10:30 a.m. The public sports program being livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation is presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and ArenaPlus, the 24/7 sports app in the country.

Math teacher coaches Umingan to boys’ crown in PNVF U18 tilt

WHO would have thought a bunch of boys from the municipality of Umingan who’ve virtually never tasted the tough and rough action in the big city would emerge champions of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Under-18 Championships Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum?

And who would readily agree to the fact that their coach didn’t even got to play competitive volleyball at all—although he ran the 100, 200 and 400 meters of athletics in his elementary and high school days representing the Pangasinan town that sits on the border with Nueva Ecija?

Add to the mix that he doesn’t even teach Physical Education, but the head of Mathematics at the Umingan

National High School.

“It’s tough, too tough, we’ve gone through much challenges,” said an ecstatic Eusebio Solis moments after he coached his team to a 25-23, 23-25, 2325, 25-17, 16-14 pulsating come-frombehind win over VNS-Savouge to win the boys crown of the championships organized by the PNVF headed by Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

“But we proved something with

this victory, that we, provincial teams, could stay in stride or even beat the strong teams from the big city,” added Solos, who admitted he did some arithmetic of sorts in figuring our how he could become a volleyball coach and teach the sport’s rudiments to kids despite his zero experience in the sport.

“I went to my mentors,” he said, keeping to himself who they were.

Provincial team Umingan is but these young Pangasinenses, all students of their town’s national high school and basically supported by their parents and Mayor Michael Cruz, are on their way to the Palarong Pambansa nationals in Cebu in July.

How they did it was another tough challenge.

The team traveled to Laoag City

for the Palaro regionals and, as Pangasinan’s representative, beat Ilocos Norte for the right to represent the province in Cebu.

They then took a plane ride right after the match to catch their 5:30 p.m. semifinals match against Canossa Academy of Lipa City at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum. They were lucky enough that they flew trouble free and went on to clinch the ticket to the final in four sets.

“We got to Rizal Memorial at 3:30 p.m., enough for the team to recover and prepare for the semifinals,” Solis said.

University of Santo Tomas (UST), meanwhile, tamed National University, 25-17, 17-25, 25-20, 25-23, to capture the girls’ crown in the allUniversity Athletic Association of the Philippines team finale.

Navy’s Dela Vega is week’s best player in Spikers’ Turf

JOEVEN Dela Vega steadied the ship for the semis-bound PGJC-Navy as they caught momentum heading into the semifinals of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.

Dela Vega provided the clutch points to lift his team in a thrilling five-set match, 25-19, 22-25, 25-20, 19-25, 15-10, win over fellow semifinalsbound D’Navigators Iloilo at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium last Sunday.

He showed the way tallying 19 points to power his team to a 6-2 win-loss record at the end of preliminaries. For his timely offense, scoring eight of his markers in the deciding fifth set, Dela Vega snared the Spikers’ Turf Player of the Week citation presented by Pilipinas Live for the period of April 24 to 28.

PSA’s official partner Radyo Pilipinas 2 also airs the Forum on a delayed basis and shares it on its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2 sports. Joeven

Bilog Ang Bola

bowed heads of dejected players, three words tossed away by skeptical minds that question it, and refused by cynical hearts that won’t believe in it.

Though already qualified in the semis, Dela Vega underscored the importance of the win in building their confidence for the next round—especially as they face the D’Navigators anew in the round robin Final Four.

They play again on May 5.

“Syempre sobrang importante nito kasi naboost ‘yung morale namin as a team, kasi maka-

if the truth is harsh. What’s a little white lie if the uncertainty of how things will turn out puts it in a gray area?

kalaban din namin sila (D’Navigators) sa semis so parang pondo na rin para sa amin,” said Dela Vega.

Despite his performance built off of 16 attacks, two aces, and one block, Dela Vega said he still has a lot to improve on heading into the next round of the league streamed live on www.spikersturf.ph and Pilipinas Live.

“‘Yung floor defense saka mindset gusto ko pang ma-improve talaga para sa semis handa na ako,’ he said.

The PGJC-Navy hitter drew nine votes among the scribes covering the league organized by Sports Vision, squeaking past Manuel Sumanguid of the Criss Cross King Crunchers who had seven votes.

Also among the nominees were Cignal’s Mark Calado, Navy’s Peter Quiel, Criss Cross’ Jude Garcia, Bryan Jaleco of Air Force, and Francis Saura of the D’Navigators.

Dela Vega and his crew return to action against defending champions Cignal HD Spikers in their first game of the semis beginning Wednesday, May 1, at the Rizal Memorial Sports Coliseum.

Whorf Hypothesis, is “largely predetermined by the language of our culture.”

These are the words you find, scraping the bottom of the barrel when there is nothing left but despair, discouraged beyond consolation.

It is the coach’s way of helping players carry themselves with dignity in the face of futility.

The phrase is now a cluster of empty words, and I wonder when it lost its fighting spirit and became nothing more than lip service.

My guess? General experience, beyond playing sports. We lose in life every day, even the fights we thought we should’ve won. And so we became cynical of the improbable.

When we fail over and over again, the animist in us assumes control, relieving the weary realistic voice in our heads, and leaving our fate at the hands of an unseen deity, hoping a Hail Mary will find the end zone. Our recourse is the good graces of a metaphysical intercessor who might favor us for past acts of devotion.

We say bilog ang bola out of decorum because it is indelicate to speak plainly, especially

And because of that, the phrase has been added to the list of things we say that we don’t mean, and I think we have enough of those.

So let’s reclaim it.

It’s good for us to nurture new habits, and use them to replace bad ones.

Let’s start with something as simple as believing in the words we say. We should mean what we say, or just be quiet.

We might not know it yet, but we need inspiration now more than ever, because in sports as in life, we are challenged by younger, faster, taller, stronger opponents. The gaps separating our reality from our dreams are becoming wider and the obstacles we have to hurdle to be able to rise from our present situation are getting higher.

We dismiss the proverb because bilog ang bola is just words, and yet the power of language is found in how words affect how we see the world.

The world as we know it, according to Renate Giesbrecht’s seminar paper on The Sapir-

That said, bilog ang bola should stop acting as a trigger to defeatism when we say it. On the contrary, it should empower us. Return to affecting your fortunes, not just when it is easy, but more importantly, when a lot is going against you.

If we can find it in ourselves to believe that a low-ranked NBA Playoffs team we root for can go all the way and win it all, we can also mine that long-buried sense of optimism and use it in our uphill battles.

The next time you say bilog ang bola, say it with conviction and let it empower you. Say it like how Narda says “Darna!” Say it the way Gilas fans scream “Puso!”

Say it like a prayer; match your devotion to your god with faith in yourself, and scream it out loud enough to wake the hero inside. If there is a part of life where we can learn to believe again in the impossible, it is in sports. And maybe we can start winning again. In this game called life, always remember: bilog ang bola.

dela Vega

Games Tuesday (Semifinals) 4 p.m. – Choco Mucho vs Creamline 6 p.m. – Petro Gazz vs Chery Tiggo

The boys from Umingan are shown with head coach Eusebio Solis (standing, fourth from left), Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara and Akari’s Mozzy Ravena.

The Designated Kit Man

Erel Cabatbat

Free Throw Shooter

Nathaniel Dela Cruz

The Designated Kit Man

Erel Cabatbat

Free Throw Shooter

Nathaniel Dela Cruz

2024 RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Folayang hopes PH bets get call for ONE 168

MIXED martial arts legend Eduard “Landslide” Folayang believes that it would be massive for the Filipino fighters if ever their number is called for ONE 168: Denver.

And make no mistake, even he wants to fight at the Ball Arena come Sept. 7 (Manila time).

“Sobrang nakaka-motivate,” he said. “S yempre bilang fighter, gusto ko rin makalaro doon. And I’m sure yung iba ding fighters, same ang pakiramdam dahil hindi pa tayo nakakalaban sa arena na yun.”

The former ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion, who now heads Lions Nation MMA, also thinks that it would be a full circle moment for him.

After all, it was just last year when Folayang and reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio have gone on a two-month sojourn in the United States to train with elite coaches Greg Jackson and Mike Winklejohn of Jackson Wink MMA and Rafael Cordeiro of King’s MMA.

“Napakarami naming natutunan sa US and hindi lang sa laban kundi sa decision making namin. Kaya maganda kung makasubok din kami na lumaban doon,” he said.

Though he’s leaving it up to the ONE Championship brass to make those decisions, Folayang is confident that there will be enough support from our Pinoy kababayans there in the United States if ever a Filipino gets picked.

“That means may market talaga tayo sa US,” he said.

Yulo’s brother dominates Cali tourney with 2 golds, 3 silvers

By Randy Caluag

KARL Eldrew Yulo delivered an exceptional performance at the Pacific Rim Championships 2024, spearheading the Philippine gymnastics team’s impressive medal haul with two golds and three silver medals in the weeklong tournament that came to a close Sunday at the Coliseo El Pueblo in Cali, Colombia.

The younger brother of two-time World Champion Carlos Yulo topped the Men’s Floor Exercise and the Vault event, while placing second in the individual all-around, Still Rings and Pommel Horse.

Aged 17, Yulo, a decorated athlete

with golden victories in the Batang Pinoy and Philippine National Games, emerged as the most successful Filipino competitor in the tournament, which drew participants from across Asia and the Pacific. Also winning for the Philippines

were John Ivan Cruz who bagged the gold in the junior, bronze medalist Juancho Miguel Besana in the junior men’s vault and Ancilla Lucia Mari Manzano, bronze achiever in the junior women’s vault.

Rowena Bautista, who was appointed by Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion as alternate head of delegation for the Philippine team, paid tribute to the coaches, including Reyland Yuson Capellan Ton Santos Sumabal Ramos Michael Naomi Soco and team manager Bea Eusuya, as well as the technical judges Naomi Soco Cecilio Gutierrez Cabueñas Jr. Dee Coh.

“With this result, (the) 27-hour flight from Manila to Colombia is a sweet pain. Karl Jahrel Eldrew

Obiena skips PH Open to focus on LA Grand Prix

By Peter Atencio

POLE vault star Ernest John Obiena will skip the ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships that will happen on May 8 to 12 at the PhilSports oval in Pasig.

The 28-year-old Obiena has been in Chula Vista, California over the last two weeks for a training camp and will compete in the Los Angeles Grand Prix on May 19.

The LA Grand Prix will be having seven competitions that he will join before he heads for the Metz’ training camp of Team Philippines this June to get ready for the Paris Olympics this July.

With Obiena absent, national athletes based here and abroad will make their presence felt in the fiveday meet, also known as the National Open, which will have World Athletic points, Olympic qualification slots

THE Philippines’ world-first solo hosting of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship has gotten a boost as PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Cignal TV announced their support for the prestigious volleyball tournament taking place on September 12-28, 2025.

The country’s largest telco network PLDT will be the official broadband partner of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. Cignal TV, the pay TV arm of the MediaQuest Group, will be the event’s official broadcaster.

“This is a great opportunity to inspire a new generation of Filipino athletes and showcase our countrymen’s passion for sports,” said Manuel V Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of PLDT. “The Philippines is now taking center stage in the world of volleyball. We look forward to working with the DOT and the PNVF to provide a top-notch experience for fans all over the world.”

The Philippines is the first solo host nation of the biggest men’s volleyball tournament in the world. The event will

and ranking points at stake.

Fil-American standout

also be the biggest FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship to date, as the tournament format expands to 32 teams. The sport has rapidly grown in popularity in the Philippines over the past few years, with a passionate fanbase supporting highly competitive leagues such as Spikers’ Turf, Premier Volleyball League (PVL), and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League.

“It will be a huge challenge to host the highest-ranking teams and fans from all over the world. But as Filipinos, we know we can create the best environment for everyone to compete at the highest level on our home soil.”, said PNVF president Ramon Suzara. The Philippine men’s national volleyball team’s preparations will begin with a comprehensive selection process for the player pool and the unveiling of a new team name. Aside from supporting the national team, PLDT was a key partner in the recent 2023 Volleyball Nations League in Manila. [END]

hurdles and the 400-meter hurdles.

Harvard Fil-Am student Victoria Bossong will join her as she seeks to finalize the details of her bid to officially represent the Philippines in international meets, when she joins the women’s 400-meter and 800-meter action.

Angel Frank will be for podium finishes in the women’s 100-meter, 200-meter and 400-meter categories.

Pole vaulters Elijah Cole and Alyanna Nicolas will mix it up with a younger set of rivals like Enzo Sison and Audrey Agcaoili.

Yacine Guermali will be around to contest for spots in the men’s 1500 and 500-meter events, against local long distance specialists Richard Salano and Arlan Arbois.

Newbies like Sidney Yap (hammer throw), AJ Rickets (5000 meters, 10,000 meters) and Miles Mingo (200 meters) will also be there.

Yulo is the next World Champion of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines. Thank you, Philippine Sports Commission, for the 100% support to the GAP delegation. GAP President Cynthia C. Norton, thank you for appointing me as your alternate Head of Delegation to this world-level tournament,” said Bautista in a social media post. Yulo’s mother, Angelika, who was closely following the development, commended his son for his sacrifices and hard work.

“You’re undeniably strong and a beast at a very young age. First time to compete at the world stage and yet you’ve finished with flying colors truly indeed that your hard work pays off,” she said.

Archers, Scorpions eye finals

Games Tuesday (Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig)

REIGNING champion EcoOil-La Salle and surprise contender Centro Escolar University go for the jugular against Go Torakku-St. Clare and Marinerong Pilipino-San Beda, respectively, in Game 2 of the semifinals in the 2024 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Tuesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The unbeaten Green Archers are heavily favored anew against the Saints in their 7:30 p.m. showdown, while another fiery duel looms between the Scorpions and the Red Lions in their 4:30 p.m. encounter.

La Salle and CEU took the opener of their respective best-of-three semifinal series. A repeat in Game 2 would set up the two teams for a best-of-three titular showdown starting on Thursday at the same venue.

The top-seeded Green Archers, also the reigning UAAP champs, trounced the Saints, 85-65 in the opener to stay unbeaten in six games and move closer to their third straight finals appearance.

“It brings us closer to where we want to, but the series is not over. Again, we have to respect St. Clare as a team and it will be the same respect in Game 2,” said La Salle assistant Gian Nazario, who anticipates the return of Jonnel Policarpio (stomach flu) and EJ Gollena (hamstring) after missing Game 1. In the other series, CEU’s dream of making it all the way to the finals looks achievable.

The back-to-back UCAL champions seemed to have the number of the Red Lions. They won, 72-63, in the classifications phase then escaped with a 75-71 decision in the semifinal opener.

Ernest John Obiena

Eduard Folayang

Lauren Hoffman is one of 12 athletes coming from the United States to compete in the tournament. Hoffman, already a part of the national team, will seek out the gold medals at stake in women’s 100 meter

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manny V. Pangilinan with Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) o cers and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon Suzara (3rd from left) and Secretary-General Don Caringal (rightmost).

Karl Eldrew Yulo: Following in the footsteps of his more illustrious brother Carlos.

Program (4Ps), senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs) and P35 for regular customers. It serves as a way for irrigators associations (IAs) to return the blessings they received from the government to less privileged people of their community.

Higher power demand seen in May

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER demand could further increase in May after it reached a peak of 9,301 megawatts on April 24, surpassing the 2024 and 2025 forecasts, the country’s largest distributor said Monday.

Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) data showed that actual peak demand in 2023 was at 8,438 MW. Forecasted demand for 2024 was at 8,791 MW and for 2025 at 9,226 MW. Meralco senior vice president and head of networks Froilan Savet said the difference in peak demand from last year was 863 MW, higher than the capacity of

the highest generating unit (GNPD with 668 MW) in the Luzon grid.

“The demand is expected to rise further in the coming weeks as we enter May, which typically marks the peak demand of the year,” Savet said.

Meralco chairman Manuel Pangilinan called for the construction of more conventional power plants

Gov’t

hikes

to meet the increasing demand amid scorching temperature, which resulted in red and yellow alerts in the grid.

“You really have to build more capable, more capacities in the system. To be able to accommodate these... let’s say unexpected changes that could happen, that is now happening,” Meralco chairman Manuel Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan said participants of the interruptible load program (ILP) helped reduce demand but it is not a sustainable scenario.

He said the lack of available capacity also impacted on the prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, the trading floor of electricity.

“”There’s supposed to be in a vibrant spot market, and we can’t do that with sufficient real and dependable capacities available. And we’re paying for that in terms of very, very thin reserves,” Pangilinan said. He said the renewable energy power plants being built today have low capacity factor thus there is a need for baseload capacities such as coal or gas.

“Whether it be the coal or gas, again, there’s got to be some guidance given to us as to where we should turn,” Pangilinan said.

“We need conventional, dependable power plants. So, that we don’t get these crazy situations when one particular large plant is down,” he said.

WHAT’S INSIDE?

PH stock index climbs above 6,700

Malaysia-Boracay flights eyed

borrowing plan to P2.57t this year—Recto

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE government is increasing its borrowing plan for 2024 to P2.57 trillion from the initial target of P2.46 trillion set by the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC).

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the additional funds would be sourced from both domestic and foreign creditors to cover the budget deficit for the year. Recto sad the government would also continue to adopt a 75:25 borrowing mix in favor of domestic sources.

The DBCC recently raised the budget deficit ceiling from 5.1 percent to 5.6 percent of the gross domestic product.

“This prudent debt management strategy will allow the country to effectively mitigate foreign exchange risks, take advantage of ample

BCDA, Maharlika fund manager sign deal to explore investment projects

THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said Monday it signed a strategic partnership with Maharlika Investment Corp. (MIC) to explore investment opportunities within BCDA properties, including Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone. Under the MOU, BCDA and MIC will “further discuss, share knowledge and explore potential collaboration opportunities that will lead to a development of a feasibility study report.” The report will include potential developments within BCDA properties such as Clark Freeport Zone and Clark Civil Aviation Complex in Pampanga, New Clark City in Tarlac and Poro Point Freeport Zone in La Union, among others.

“We are optimistic that the Maharlika Investment Corp. will see our shovelready projects and programs as commercially and financially viable investments that will generate optimal returns for the government and for the Filipino people,” BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang said. Among the BCDA projects are the expansion of Clark International Airport, which includes the construction of a second runway, taxiways, aprons and landside access roads and utilities; affordable housing project in New Clark City; Clark Integrated Public Transport System; Poro Point Seaport Modernization Program; Clark Central Business District; and Solid Waste Management and Waste-to-Energy Project in New Clark City. Darwin G. Amojelar P2.57 trillion

AYALA STOCKHOLDERS.

Ayala Corp. chairman Jaime Zobel de Ayala and president and chief executive Cezar Consing discuss the conglomerate’s 2023 achievements during their annual stockholders’ meeting. Zobel de Ayala says the group will leverage on its strong performance and thrust of building businesses sustainably in supporting recent investments in healthcare, education and electric mobility. From the Facebook page of Jaime Zobel de Ayala

liquidity in the country’s financial system and support the development of the local debt and capital markets,” Recto said.

Data showed that in the first quarter of 2024, the government raised P584.9 billion for its 30th tranche of retail treasury bonds (RTB 30) issuance, making it the largest domestic fundraising issue to date.

The RTB 30 also allowed ordinary Filipinos to invest in safe and stable sources of passive income, while promoting financial literacy and inclusion.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue

(BIR) collected P591.8 billion in the first quarter of 2024, or 17.15 percent (P86.6 billion) higher than P505.2 billion it generated in the same period in 2023.

Customs collection reached P218.9 billion in the first quarter, outperforming last year’s P213.8

billion by 2.35 percent (P5 billion).

Recto also assured that addressing inflation would continue to be his top priority. The government introduced the Reduce Emerging Inflation Now (REIN) plan to mitigate this through the proactive management of price pressures.

The Inter-Agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook (IACIMO), co-chaired by the secretaries of the DOF and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), has been meeting regularly to ensure the accelerated implementation of direct measures to curb food and nonfood inflation.

Recto said the government secured financing agreements with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for two big-ticket infrastructure projects under the administration’s Build Better More program that will help drive inclusive growth for all Filipinos.

Gov’t keeps 9% poverty rate goal B2 B3

B4

for P2.1b

GLOBE Telecom said Monday it closed a deal with MIESCOR Infrastructure Development Corp. (MIDC) for the sale of another 181 towers for P2.17 billion.

Globe said that it closed a total of 1,529 of 2,180 towers to be acquired by MIDC.

“The transaction will result in availability of funds for Globe to support future capital expenditures, debt repayments, and debt avoidance with the expectation to improve the balance sheet health of the company,” Globe said.

Globe agreed in August 2022 to sell then lease back all its 5,709 telecommunications towers and relative passive infrastructure in two deals worth P71 billion. It said of the total, 2,180 towers would be sold to MIDC for P26 billion and 3,529 towers would be sold to Frontier Tower Associates Philippines Inc. for P45 billion.

The company said it expects to recognize an estimated posttax gain of P13.5 billion from the transaction.

Globe reported a net income of P24.6 billion in 2023, down 29 percent from P34.60 billion in 2022. Excluding the impact of the onetime gains, normalized net income would have been P19.1 billion, down by 4 percent from 2022.

Globe’s consolidated service revenues grew 3 percent to P162.3 billion from P158 billion.

Darwin G. Amojelar

General Appropriations Act (GAA). The circular will enable the DOF to mobilize substantial non-tax revenues from GOCCs’ unrestricted fund balances to unlock the unprogrammed appropriations of the 2024 GAA to fund the President’s priority programs and projects.

Recto is also pushing for the privatization of government assets which would lead to better operational efficiency and higher investment returns.

G. Amojelar

P20-PER-KILO RICE. The Kadiwa stores at National Irrigation Administration Albay-Catanduanes Irrigation Management Office in Ligao City, Albay offer rice at P20 per kilogram for members of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino

SAMAL BRIDGE. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announces the start of civil works construction of deep foundations for the land and marine viaducts of the 4.07-kilometer Samal Island - Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project. The bridge will be built with a 275-meter main span and a vertical navigation clearance of 47 meter over the southern corridor of the Pakiputan Strait.

Steniel shares set to resume trading at PSE after 18 years

THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) will lift the trading suspension of Steniel Manufacturing Corp. on Tuesday (April 30), ending nearly 18 years of restriction due to several factors.

The Steniel shares have been suspended since 2006 and were last traded at P0.250 apiece.

The PSE said in a notice posted on its website the trading band on Steniel shares would also be lifted upon resumption of its trading, considering that the company had been suspended since July 6, 2006.

This means that Steniel shares will be allowed to go up by more than 50 percent or drop by more than 30 percent from its last trading price.

The PSE suspended trading of Steniel in 2006 after the company underwent corporate rehabilitation.

Petitions for corporate rehabilitation were filed with different regional trial courts from 2007 to 2009, which were all dismissed in 2009.

The company submitted its initial request for lifting of the trading suspension in 2011, citing as reason the dismissal and termination of the rehabilitation proceedings and after concluding a debt restructuring agreement with creditors.

The PSE then directed Steniel to submit supporting documents related to the dismissal of the petitions for rehabilitation. The company managed to submit all the documents in 2017.

Villar Group’s AllHome posts P797-m profit

PH stocks jump on window dressing, easing ME tensions

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE main composite index of the Philippine Stock Exchange opened the week in the green, closing above the 6,700 level, on window-dressing and dwindling tension in the Middle East.

The bellwether PSE index jumped 140.89 points, or 2.12 percent, to close at 6,769.64, while broader allshares index gained 50.53 points, or 1,45 percent, to 3,543.28.

“Philippine shares returned near the 6,800 as month-end window-

dressing and geopolitical concern continued to wash away,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. head economist Michael Ricafort said the easing tension in the Middle East

also helped allay concerns about inflation rate as global crude prices recently dropped to three-week lows.

Foreign buying helped lift the market, according to Philstocks Financial Inc research analyst Claire Alviar.

The market registered net inflow of P1.1 billion, while net market value turnover stood at P4.68 billion.

All sectoral indices ended in the green except for the mining and oil index which slipped 0.81 percent.

Meanwhile, the yen swung in volatile trade Monday as it surged soon after hitting a fresh 34-year low

against the dollar, fueling speculation Japanese authorities had intervened to support the currency for the first time since late 2022.

The dollar’s rally came as another forecast-topping US inflation report dented hopes for US Federal Reserve interest rate cuts this year.

The yen slipped to 160.17 to the greenback in volatile morning trade, with liquidity thin amid a holiday in Japan.

It later bounced back to 154.95, stirring speculation that authorities had intervened to arrest its slide. With AFP

Metro Retail Stores Group Inc. (MRSGI) breaks ground for four new supermarket stores in Cebu and Leyte for increased accessibility and convenience for these communities. Attending the groundbreaking of the new Metro Value Mart in Barangay Tangke, Talisay City are (from left) Jarred Cabilte, barangay chairman of Tangke, Talisay; Maria Teresa Canton, lessor; Benedicto Miranda, MRSGI vice

Metro Retail breaks ground on four new supermarket stores

Jenniffer B. Austria METRO Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) expanded in the Visayas with the groundbreaking for four new supermarket stores in Cebu and Leyte.

MRSGI vice president of store network development Benedicto Miranda noted the importance of community partnership and the company’s commitment to providing quality goods and services to residents.

ALLHOME Corp., the Philippines’ pioneering one-stop full line home center owned by the Villar Group, said Monday it recorded P797-million net income and P12.06-billion net revenues in 2023.

The company did not provide comparative figures, but based on its previous filing with the Philippine Stock Exchange, it posted net income attributable to parent equity holders of P933.8 million and gross revenues of P12.56 billion in 2022.

AllHome said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its gross profit margins increased to 38 percent in 2023, up 120 basis points from 36.8 percent in the same period in 2022.

AllHome president and chief executive Benjamarie Therese Serrano said the increase in gross profit margins was due to operational efficiencies implemented by the company in the past years.

“Though current consumer spending has been diverted from home retail to less essential expenses like fashion, health and beauty, entertainment, and travel, AllHome remains committed in delivering value to our stakeholders,” Serrano said.

“We have steadily increased our margins, both in gross and net terms, ending 2023 with a gross margin of 38%. We also continue to seek out operational efficiencies, especially as we face unusually high inflation and increased utilities costs,” she said.

Serrano remains upbeat about the group’s prospects, as Euromonitor’s 2023 report showed that the Philippines’ home retail sector would enjoy a compounded annual growth rate of 6.2 percent from 2024 to 2028.

“The long-term fundamentals of the home retail sector in the Philippines remain sound, and we look to take advantage of this with AllHome reclaiming its position as a premium home retailer that enjoys the unique synergy of selfsustaining retail ecosystems, buoyed by synergies with Vista Land, the country’s largest home builder, as well as with its sister companies under the AllValue umbrella,” Serrano said.

Jenniffer B. Austria

“These new establishments mark the beginning of a new chapter for

these communities,” said Miranda.

“Our partnership with the local governments and the active participation of residents underscores our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the people of Cebu and Leyte,” he said.

MRSGI added Metro Supermarket in Barangay Tayud, alongside Metro Value Mart locations in Barangay Poblacion and Barangay Tangke.

Expanding beyond Cebu, MRSGI

PCC approves joint venture of Mitsui & Co., KDDI units

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) approved the proposed joint venture between subsidiaries of Mitsui & Co. Ltd. (Mitsui) and KDDI Corp. (KDDI), according to a decision dated April 13, 2023. The joint venture between Mitsui and KKDI involves merging their subsidiaries Relia and KDDI Evolva, respectively.

KDDI Evolva will be the surviving entity, aligning with Mitsui’s strategy for Relia strategy to be a whollyowned subsidiary. The PCC said the transaction would not lessen competition in the relevant

market, identified as the provision of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) for global integrated network solutions.

SASE combines security tools and networking technology to provide secure remote access. It said of the several factors supporting the approval, the market has numerous competitors offering similar services, which is good sign of a healthy market environment. It also mentioned how customers can choose from alternative providers and the low barriers to entry where new businesses can easily enter the market, and existing ones can expand.

also broke ground for Metro Supermarket in Barangay Marvel, Isabel.

These expansions signify MRSGI’s commitment to serving diverse communities across the Visayas region, enriching local economies, and fostering connections with residents, the company said.

“Investing in these communities is not just about business; it’s about creating lasting relationships and making a positive difference in people’s lives,” said Miranda.

“We are excited to embark on this journey with the residents of Cebu and Leyte, and we are committed to being a trusted partner in their journey towards progress and prosperity,” he said.

MRSGI operates a network of 64 stores throughout the Philippines, with 42 branches located in the Visayas, offering various formats including Metro Supermarket, Metro Department Store, Super Metro Hypermarket and Metro Value Mart.

PhilRatings maintains PRS Aaa rating outlook for D&L

THE Philippine Rating Services Corp. (PhilRatings) maintained its issue credit rating of PRS Aaa, with a stable outlook for D&L Industries Inc.’s (D&L) outstanding fixed-rate bonds amounting to P5 billion.

Obligations rated PRS Aaa are of the highest quality with minimal credit risk and the company’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.

PRS Aaa is the highest rating assigned by PhilRatings. A stable outlook is assigned when a rating is likely to be maintained or to remain unchanged in the next 12 months.

The rating and outlook were assigned given D&L’s strong market position in the industries that it is engaged in; diversification of products offered and markets served; innovation-driven spe-

cialty products that protect the company from keen competition and ensure continued demand from customers; and relatively stable margins amid higher cost and expenses.

PhilRatings said it would continuously monitor developments relating to D&L and may change the rating and outlook at any time, depending on the circumstances.

D&L pioneered and established its market leadership in various industries through product customization and specialization since its incorporation in 1971.

The company has four principal business segments including food ingredients, oleochemicals and other specialty chemicals, specialty plastics and consumer products original design manufacturer.

April 24,

joined by BSM head of school Van Der Linde and chairman of the board Tim Daniels, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano and Net Solar president Paolo Concio.

PLDT supports faster telecom facilities rollout in rural areas

THE PLDT Group on Monday lauded the government’s move to fasttrack the electrification and rollout of telecommunications facilities in rural areas.

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) recently published Memorandum Order No. 2024-18 which provides guidelines streamlining the energization process for telecommunications towers in areas covered by electric cooperatives, cutting the processing time to 30 days.

“PLDT and Smart are proud to have worked alongside NEA, the Anti-Red Tape Authority, other mobile network operators, independent tower companies and other government and private sector stakeholders in crafting these

guidelines, helping pave the way for the faster rollout of telco infrastructure across the nation and ultimately boosting the government’s country-wide digitalization thrust,” said Pamela Felizarta, Smart head of joint strategic operations.

This support is aligned with PLDT and Smart’s longstanding partnership with the government to narrow the digital divide, bringing the benefits of the internet closer to more Filipinos across the country.

PLDT also previously supported ARTA’s telco workshops, which aimed to further address the bottlenecks in the permitting, licensing, and authorizing process to improve connectivity, particularly in farflung areas.

Darwin G. Amojelar

AirAsia eyes Malaysia-Boracay flights

By Darwin G. Amojelar

AIRASIA Philippines said it is eyeing more direct flights to Boracay from Malaysia to entice more foreign tourists.

“Recognizing the challenges posed by congestion in Manila, AirAsia is exploring the possibility of opening direct flights to Boracay to offer guests a convenient and seamless travel journey to the island,” AirAsia Philippines chief executive Ricky Isla said.

“The profile of AirAsia travelers to Boracay consists of millennials and young professionals aged 30 to 39, followed by adults aged 50 and above who are seeking places to relax,” he said.

DOTr asks LGUs to pursue active transport infra program for cyclists

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) asked local government units (LGUs) to step up enforcement of active transport infrastructure programs to benefit cyclists and pedestrians while reducing traffic congestion.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the proper use of bike lane networks nationwide requires an effective enforcement by concerned government agencies.

“Perhaps proper enforcement is needed so that we can properly use our bike lanes,” Bautista said during the inauguration of active transport infrastructure in San Fernando, Pampanga. He asked the Land Transportation Office (LTO), the Philippine National

Poor hardest hit by lack of power supply—group

PARTNERS for Affordable & Reliable Energy (PARE), a group that advocates for pro-consumer solutions to address energy needs, called on stakeholders to address the rampant issuance of red and yellow alerts throughout the country.

“The perennial lack of energy supply has an adverse impact on Filipinos across socio-economic classes. In particular, however, the poor are hit the hardest because their living standards will further deteriorate due to having no electricity in their households,” PARE chief advocate officer Nic Satur Jr. said in a statement.

“This is an important matter to address because the Philippines cannot achieve inclusive economic growth if it does not ensure safe, reliable, and affordable energy for all Filipinos,” Satur said.

PARE urged all stakeholders such as the Department of Energy, Energy Regulatory Commission, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines and other energy companies in the private sector to pursue policies such as expanding annual power generation in the Philippines to 7-8 terrawatts per hour (TWh) until 2026 and 8 to 9 TWh until 2030.

The underscored the need to increase power generation to 2,000 kilowatts per hour (kWh) per person by 2030, an increase from 1,025 kWh in 2022.

Police (PNP) and local government units to strictly enforce active transport measures, including the proper use of bike lanes.

“That’s why I’m calling on our law enforcers, the LTO, our police officers to use these bike lanes properly,” Bautista said.

Echoing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement of the government’s prioritization of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure as an alternative mode of transport, Bautista stressed the benefits of active transport.

“The active transport will not only support the riding public but also reduce traffic, encourage healthy programs so the DOTr has bike lanes all over the country,” he said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Isla said most of their gusts come from countries like the United States, China, the UK, South Korea, Japan, Germany and Canada.

“It’s crucial for airlines to make travel easy and accessible for our guests so that there’s more opportunity to attract foreign tourists,” Isla said.

“AirAsia Philippines is enjoying a healthy load factor of 94 percent as of the current month. Eighty percent of this figure are domestic travelers while the remaining 20 percent consists of international guests,” he said.

AirAsia, leveraging on the number of flights from Manila, Clark and Cebu to Caticlan and Kalibo, an airfare which is 50 percent lower than its competitors, and a positive average monthly on-time performance (OTP) of 85 percent, hopes to get the support of the international community and increase international tourist arrivals in Boracay.

AirAsia also sees the mounting of direct flights to Boracay a measure of helping decongest Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It said that aside from attracting

more international guests to the island, it is also ensuring that responsible tourism will also be a top priority whilst promoting the island.

“In line with our sustainability commitment, AirAsia Group has avoided carbon emissions by 130,000 tons since 2016 through ecoefficiency practices. AirAsia has also been supporting their travel needs through our AirAsia MOVE mobile app which gives an array of flight schedules, hotels, restaurants, and even activities,” Isla said.

Packworks, Help.NGO bring Starlink internet to Catanduanes sari-sari stores

PACKWORKS, a Filipino startup that offers a business-to-business (B2B) fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) marketplace for sari-sari stores, launched SariLink in partnership with the international non-profit organization Help.NGO to provide fast and reliable low Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity through Starlink Internet to close the digital divide and boost local entrepreneurship in the Philippines.

The partnership, in its pilot run, installed LEO communication terminals in select micro-retail stores in Catanduanes. The strategic move empowers small entrepreneurs in the far-flung areas of the island to be digitally connected by leveraging innovative solutions provided by the Packworks platform.

The SariLink program is designed to bridge the digital gap that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) often face due to unreliable internet access.

The newly installed LEO connection through Starlink can achieve speeds up to 220 Mbps download and 80 Mbps upload, allowing stores in Catanduanes

to have access to tools to digitize their operations, including pricing tools, inventory management and sales and revenue tracking. They are also able to process digital payments and access vital inventory financing services to help them grow their businesses.

Store beneficiaries enrolled in the SariLink program will be monitored for sales growth using Amazon Web Services (AWS) data analytics to ensure they receive the right support to optimize their operations and grow their businesses effectively.

The “Better Internet for All Filipinos” 2024 report by the World Bank indicates that despite recent advancements, the Philippines is still lagging behind neighboring countries in Southeast Asia (SEA) in terms of internet connectivity. The report

highlights that issues of affordability, speed, and access create a disparate digital landscape.

OF ANNUAL

Meralco looking at P40-b core net income this year

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) is looking at full-year consolidated core net income of P40 billion in 2024, as first-quarter income climbed 11 percent to P10.1 billion on the back of higher sales volume.

Meralco chairman Manuel Pangilinan said the company was looking at a higher CCNI of P40 billion this year, up from P37.1 billion in 2023.

“As we continue to deliver stable and reliable service to our customers, we reiterate our pursuit to bring in projects of scale that will boost

UnionBank’s Q1 income fell 41% to P2b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

UNION Bank of the Philippines said Monday its first-quarter net income reached P2 billion, down 41 percent from the same period last year on higher expenses related to integration of Citi’s consumer business. The bank did not provide comparative figure, but based on the bank’s previous financial filing, it booked P3.4 billion net income in the first quarter of 2023.

Topline revenues remain strong, growing 14 percent year-on year on growing proportion of consumer loans, higher net interest margins and transaction fees.

Net interest income grew 17 percent to P13 billion, driven by a 59-basis-point improvement in net interest margins to 5.7 percent.

Non-interest income excluding trading gains went up by 13 percent to P4.7 billion.

The bank’s consumer loans now account for 59 percent of total loan portfolio, nearly three times higher than the industry average.

UnionBank’s operating expenses rose 10 percent to P11 billion, driven by IT-related costs supporting the successful migration of Citi retail accounts into UnionBank systems.

UnionBank said while this temporarily affected its profitability, it was a planned initiative aimed at unlocking long-term benefits and efficiencies.

UnionBan, on March 24, 2024 completed the final phase of the Citi integration, which involved the transfer of millions of customer and transaction records from Citi to UnionBank’s platforms.

available generation capacity which we direly need to ensure not just the immediate, but the long-term energy security of the country,” Pangilinan said.

“This year, along with our partner and in close coordination with the government, we hope to proceed with the full feasibility study on the possible adoption of nuclear energy. Similarly, we will endeavor to implement more sustainable initiatives to cater to more underserved communities in the country. Given the foregoing, Meralco’s CCNI for the full year is expected to reach over P40 billion,”

Pangilinan said. Meralco said the distribution business accounted for 58 percent or P5.8 billion, while power generation brought in P2.7 billion or 27 percent. RES and the non-power businesses took the remaining P1.5 billion or 15 percent.

Consolidated reported net income increased 19 percent in the first quarter to P9.6 billion from P8.1 billion.

Consolidated revenues hit P104.5 billion, slightly lower than P105.6 billion in 2023 on lower pass-through charges and energy fees.

Gov’t keeps goal to slash poverty rate to single-digit

THE government is keeping its target to bring down poverty incidence to 9 percent by 2028, Finance Secretary Ralp Recto said Monday.

Recto said in a speech marking his first 100 days in office the government is undertaking strategic growthenhancing initiatives to achieve the most important number, “which is cutting poverty incidence to a single digit or 9 percent by the end of the President’s term in 2028.”

“This means lifting 14 million Filipinos out of poverty. We do not intend to fail in meeting this crucial target. As this is the key indicator that our growth has translated into real improvements in the lives of ordinary Filipinos through more and better jobs, higher levels of education, and healthier lives,” he said.

“The Marcos, Jr. administration is building an economy that will allow Filipinos’ many talents to blossom.

It is an economy that all our people rightfully deserve, that results in comfortable lives, and that secures the future of the next generation of Filipinos. This is the promise of Bagong Pilipinas,” Recto said.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said that poverty rate already

SSS asks employers to fully remit worker contributions

THE Social Security System (SSS) reminded business establishments of their obligation to remit their workers’ contributions as the Labor Day approaches.

SSS executive vice president for branch operations Voltaire Agas said the agency would issue violation notices to delinquent employers nationwide in a synchronized Run After Contribution Evaders (RACE) operation. This serves as a warning of the legal consequences for failing to remit employee contributions, he said.

Pru Life UK’s new chief executive vows to boost PH insurance sector

PRU Life UK’s newly-appointed chief executive Sanjay Chakrabarty conveyed the company’s commitment and support to the Insurance Commission’s goal to advance financial literacy and inclusion in the country and good governance in the insurance sector.

Chakrabarty met with Insurance Commissioner Reynaldo Regalado to discuss financial literacy initiatives, improved governance standards and expanded access to insurance products. They underscored the need to include vulnerable and underserved populations in the financial sector. Pru Life UK also pledged its sup-

port and commitment to IC’s goal to provide financial protection to the Muslim community.

“It was an honor to meet Insurance Commissioner Atty. Reynaldo Regalado and reinforce Pru Life UK’s commitment to achieving our shared goals of increasing insurance penetration in the Philippines and elevating good governance in the life insurance industry,” Chakrabarty said. Pru Life UK is a leading life insurer in the Philippines, recording the highest new business annual premium equivalent (NBAPE) in 2023, according to the Insurance Commission’s latest report.

The campaign, dubbed “Alay ng SSS para sa mga Manggagawa - Serbisyong Mapagkakatiwalaan at Proteksyong Maaasahan” would be conducted on April 30.

“We want to assure our members that SSS will take action and penalize employers who fail to register their employees or haven’t deducted and remitted their contributions,” Agas said. He noted SSS’ commitment to ensuring all Filipino workers have access to social security benefits in times of need.

Agas said SSS prioritizes Filipino worker welfare by ensuring they can avail of various social security benefits provided by the state pension fund. One key measure is ensuring employers are up-to-date in remitting contributions collected from workers.

“We’ve implemented new programs to reach out to our countrymen in the informal economy, especially those in rural areas and the grassroots, by encouraging them to enroll in SSS for social security coverage,” Agas said.

declined to 22.4 percent in the first half of 2023 from 23.7 percent in the same period in 2021.

This was equivalent to 25.24 million Filipinos whose per capita income was not sufficient to meet their basic food and non-food needs, down from 2021’s estimate of 26.14 million poor Filipinos.

“The President has entrusted me with the monumental task of delivering an economy that is inclusive and sustainable––one that works for the betterment of every Filipino and the future generations to come. I therefore made it my priority to recalibrate our fiscal targets to make sure that strategic growth-enhancing fiscal consolidation is being pursued,” Recto said.

“My first 100 days in office already felt like a year but I am very fortunate to be surrounded by highly talented and competent individuals within the DOF who all help me ensure that we achieve genuine economic transformation for our people,” he said.

AXA: Mental health issues affect 21% in PH

AXA’s fourth edition of the Mind Health Report shows that Filipinos exhibit a higher prevalence of mental health conditions, from mild to severe depression and stress, compared to the global average.

One of five Filipinos is suspected of suffering from severe or extremely severe depression, anxiety or stress, with rates at 21 percent in the Philippines compared to the global average of 23 percent.

The study, conducted in collaboration with IPSOS, involved 16,000 respondents across 16 countries and territories in Europe, Asia and America to identify mental health and wellness issues in global society to build solutions to mitigate them.

The study noted an increase in the number of Filipinos who are struggling, with a rise of 5 points to 14 percent overall while a third remains to be getting by (down to 35 percent from 39 percent). Comparatively, the Philippines has a higher percentage of individuals considered as flourishing, at 27 percent compared to the global average of 24 percent.

BIR launches EOPT roadshow in PICC

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner launched the Ease of Paying Taxes (EOPT) Roadshow on April 29, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center Reception Hall in Pasay City.

The roadshow aims to educate taxpayers on the updates brought about by the EOPT law to the taxation system. The BIR said it would hold roadshows all over the Philippines to educate taxpayers about the EOPT law and the new regulations issued by the BIR.

“Taxation is for everyone. Everyone needs to be educated with our system of taxation. The BIR aims to create an inclusive environment with taxpayers. The BIR will reach out to taxpayers so they can be informed of their tax obligations. The taxpayer can also reach out to the BIR for comments or suggestions on improving tax administration in the Philippines. The BIR and taxpayers are partners in nationbuilding,” BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said.

G7 told to address global warming

TURIN, Italy—UN climate chief Simon Stiell on Monday told G7 countries it was “utter nonsense” to claim they could not take bolder actions to tackle global warming.

The G7 is holding its first big political meeting on climate since the UN’s annual negotiations in Dubai in November.

“I often hear in forums like this one that, ‘we cannot possibly move too far forward, lest we predetermine the outcome of negotiations’” at the UN level, Stiell told environment ministers meeting in Turin.

“It is utter nonsense to claim the G7 cannot -- or should not -- lead the way on bolder climate actions,” Stiell, who leads the United Nations climate change organisation, said.

The Group of Seven industrialized nations, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US, is meeting in the northern Italian city for two days of environment and climate talks. AFP

DBM ANNIVERSARY. Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (right) leads the celebration of the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) 88th anniversary on April 26, 2024 at the DBM Boncodin Hall. The week-long celebration features ‘Hawaiiansummer activities for DBM employees in the central and regional offices.

Pru Life UK’s newly-appointed chief executive Sanjay Chakrabarty meets with Insurance Commissioner Reynaldo Regalado (right) to reinforce the company’s commitment and support to the commission’s goal to advance financial literacy and inclusion in the country and good governance in the insurance sector.

Major PH firms pledge to curb plastic wastes

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources stepped up its efforts to reduce plastic pollution in the Philippines and sought the help of major companies to support a circular economy.

The DENR has long advocated for a circular economy where all plastic applications are reused, recycled and responsibly managed during and after use while enabling a lower greenhouse gas emissions plastic economy.

The DENR on April 22 launched the Earth Day Every Day Project to mobilize the youth in curbing plastic pollution and strengthen the fight against the use of plastic.

Earth Day Every Day Project is a plastics collection competition among students nationwide. It aims to engage the youth on the importance of recycling plastics and to foster a culture of environmental responsibilities in line with the values of scouting.

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga and the private sector signed a pledge of commitment for the project in Pasay City aimed at fighting plastic pollution in the Philippines.

Joining her in the collaboration were SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, SM Prime Holdings Inc. assistant vice president Jessica Bianca Sy-Bell, Nestle’ Philippines Inc. corporate affairs head senior vice president Joey Uy, Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) secretary general Kim Robert de Leon, and Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) national president

Cristina Lim-Yuson.

“The Earth Day Every Day Project advocates the promotion of feasible methods to reduce waste and foster a culture of sustainability among the youth and communities, and motivates participation through incentives. For this, we thank Nestle, SM Supermalls, and the Boy and Girl Scouts of the Philippines for their invaluable support and collaboration. Their robust presence and proactive engagement will serve as a multiplier effect in our advocacy efforts,” said Loyzaga.

“Regenerating our planet has long been our advocacy at SM—through our many initiatives in recycling water and repurposing solid waste as well as the use of renewable energy. With this program where students will be motivated to collect plastics within their communities and bring them to our collection facilities at the nearest SM mall—active participation and a sense of friendly competition among the students will make this activity not only relevant but fun,” said Sy-Bell.

Student scouts from the BSP and GSP from various schools on April 22 brought the plastic items they collected, including plastic bottles and plastic bags for a weighin at SM Mall of Asia. The class with the highest volume of plastic items will win a prize.

LAYING DOWN ROOTS

AboitizPower harnesses the power of partnership to plant over two-million trees

TREES offer a multitude of benefits to our environment and wellbeing as they contribute to energy conservation, water preservation, and even heat absorption. They also provide sustenance and economic opportunities, while serving as habitats for wildlife.

Most importantly, trees are a natural carbon sink as they absorb more carbon than they produce—all this while releasing oxygen to our air. Consequently, trees help reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and play a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth.

This Earth Month, Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) recognizes its business units located in different parts of the country who took action in empowering year-round efforts to plant over two million trees and create carbon sinks for a healthier planet.

Along the way, significant bonds with local communities and stakeholders were also formed and strengthened, showing how camaraderie, responsibility, and a sense of communal ownership are needed to scale carbon sequestration activities and, ultimately, bring about sustainable environmental and socioeconomic changes within localities. Carbon Sink Management Programs AboitizPower subsidiaries Therma South Inc. (TSI) and Therma Visayas Inc. (TVI) have built carbon sinks in Davao del Sur and Toledo City, Cebu, respectively, en route to planting one million trees each within their host communities.

TSI began its Carbon Sink Management Program in 2015 and recently completed its goal of planting one million trees in Davao City, including areas covering the ancestral domains of indigenous peoples (IP).

Through a collaborative effort with Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, alongside the Matigsalug Council of Elders Marilog District Davao City, Inc. and the Matigsalug Manobo Tribal People Council of Elders Davao, Inc., TSI successfully planted a variety of endemic, fruit-bearing, and high-value trees in the Marilog District. It also resulted in restoring and rehabilitating over 845 hectares of the IP’s ancestral domain. TSI and Ramon Aboitiz Foundation also held several technical training sessions in farm planning; nursery establishment and seedling production; site preparation and plantation establishment; and plantation maintenance and monitoring. Collaboration with the local public agriculture office will also bring more opportunities for the IPs, including upskilling in cacao production, marketing, and networking.

Meanwhile, TVI began its 10-year Carbon Sink Management Program in 2016 and, to date, has planted and nurtured 770,000 trees with the help of Ramon Aboitiz Foundation and the hard work of some 277 farmers in Cebu.

As of end-2023, the program has covered a land area of 1,084 hectares, spanning the municipalities and cities of Balamban, Toledo, Borbon, Asturias, Barili, Tuburan, Pinamungahan, Ronda, Cebu, and Dumanjug. Under the program, partner farmers earn a livelihood from payments for their seedlings and maintenance services, as well as added income opportunities from the produce of fruit-bearing and high-value trees.

Native trees of mixed fruit and timber planted since 2017 include Narra, Lanutan, Kakaw, Coffee, Lomboy, Nangka, Guyabano, Rambutan, Lanzones, Avocado, Kunawom, Tugas/Molave, Duhat, Labana, Lemonsito/Kalamansi, Malaruhat, Sangil, Agoho del Monte, Caimito, Conalum, and Taguilomboy. If you plant it, they will come

The eight-hectare Aboitiz Cleanergy Park in Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City actively promotes decarbonization in an urban area, showcasing a mangrove reforestation site, nursery, and botanical garden for the propagation of multiple native tree species. As a direct result, many species of birds—from migrants, residents, to localized endemics—consider it their home.

In the seventh year of its Carbon Sink Management Program, AboitizPower’s Therma Visayas, along with Ramon Aboitiz Foundation and partner farmers across Cebu, inch closer to a target of one million trees with 770,000 already planted as of end-2023.

An IP beneficiary plants tree seedlings in his ancestral domain as part of Therma South’s

Following a recommendation by the University of the Philippines Mindanao and the University of Southeastern Philippines back in 2013, the park steadily propagated trees in the area through years of joint efforts from the public and private sectors, enabling an increase in the number of bird species residing there—rising from just five in 2015 to 106 in 2023.

As observed by birdists who frequent the park, more trees meant more food and shelter that accommodated the influx of more bird species. This growth was further sustained by habitat conservation activities and proper biodiversity management which made it a safer reserve for the birds, especially as too few people move around it. The site is jointly managed by AboitizPower subsidiary Davao Light and Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.

Mangrove protection and restoration

Meanwhile, in Bataan, GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. (GMEC) continued its five-year mangrove adoption and protection project for the province through a series of activities, including a two-day workshop and a planting activity.

Last year, GMEC signed a memorandum of agreement for an estimated P6.8-million “5 Hectares Orani Mangrove Adoption and Protection Project” to improve the existing conditions of the mangrove areas in the allotted five hectares for a period of five years, which is subject for a possible extension.

A recent workshop spearheaded by GMEC and conducted by the Wetlands International Philippines had 46 attendees from the Provincial Government of Bataan, various relevant local government offices, and community partner Tubo-Tubo Fisherfolks Association learn the ins-and-outs of mangrove protection and restoration.

A few days after the workshop, 1,000 mangrove saplings were planted by 35 volunteers from the Tubo-Tubo Fisherfolks Association in GMEC’s five-hectare adopted area in Tubo-Tubo, Sitio Pulo, Barangay Kabalutan, Orani, Bataan.

Together with the Provincial Government of Bataan, the Municipality of Orani, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Tubo-Tubo Fisherfolks Association, the project will help advance GMEC’s flagship environmental program called P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S., with focus on the letters “P” and “R” which stand for “Protect marine life” and “Reforest land”, respectively.

For AboitizPower and its partners and neighbors, commemorating Earth Month is about working together for the year-round practice of its core message—ultimately leaving the planet better than when we found it.

GMEC, along with the Tubo-Tubo Fisherfolks Association and their development partners, planted mangrove saplings in the former’s adopted area right after assessing the terrain and clearing debris.

The Pink-necked Green Pigeon and the Golden-bellied Gerygone (below) are among the 108 recorded bird species who call the trees at Aboitiz Cleanergy Park home.

& SUSTAINABILITY

Aboitiz Group bares sustainability goals

ABOITIZ InfraCapital (AIC), the infrastrure unit of the Aboitiz Group, reaffirmed its commitment to protect the environment and promote sustainability as a corporate philosophy.

AIC made the pledge to integrate sustainability practices in various businesses during the recent celebration of Earth Day.

“At Aboitiz InfraCapital, our mission is to amalgamate sustainable practices and initiatives with developing transformative infrastructure ecosystems that enable businesses and uplift communities. Environmental stewardship is not a separate initiative for us; it is ingrained in our planning and day-to-day operations,” said Cosette V. Canilao, AIC president and chief executive officer.

AIC, through its economic estates, is one of Asia’s leading developers of smart and sustainable industrialanchored mixed-use developments.

LIMA Estate in Lipa-Malvar, Batangas, for one, is the country’s first 5-Star BERDE-District certified industrialanchored mixed-use development.

It is a testament to AIC’s commitment to incorporating environmentally responsible practices in its normal course of business. Similar certifications for West Cebu and MEZ2 Estates are in the pipeline to secure the same accreditation.

AIC’s economic estates are developed to focus on technology-enabled systems for security management efficiency, water use and waste management.

Green spaces are integrated into the overall master plan, making the estates both smart and sustainable.

Since AIC’s developments create viable and sustainable communities,

UN head urges big investments in resilient infra

THE president of the UN General Assembly stressed the critical need for resilient infrastructure if the world is to reach the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the 2030 deadline.

In a special meeting dedicated to building resilience and promoting sustainable development through infrastructure connectivity, Dennis Francis emphasized the importance of quality and endurance.

“Quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure— including regional and transborder infrastructure—is important to sustain trade and commerce, facilitate effective transportation, connect us to virtual grids, maintain energy flows and make populations safer against natural hazards,” the said Francis.

Highlighting recent shocking failures such as the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, Francis pointed out the extensive economic impact of such disasters, affecting national and global supply chains. He stressed the urgency of adapting transport infrastructure to withstand both human-induced and natural disasters exacerbated by climate change.UN News

the well-being of locators, employees and the environment are prioritized.

Meanwhile, through Aboitiz InfraCapital AGMCAC’s management, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) leads sustainable industry practices.

Early this year, MCIA became the Philippines’ first airport to earn a Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation from the Airports Council International. This globally recognized program assesses and recognizes initiatives to manage and reduce carbon emissions.

MCIA has set ambitious goals toward achieving net zero carbon emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

Committed to ensuring sustainable water for all, AIC Water also integrates environmental protection in its operations and community engagements, fortifying the long-term viability of water sources for the communities it serves.

Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua), the partner of the Davao City Water District (DCWD) in the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project, champions the conservation of the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed, a vital ecosystem that ensures a sustainable water source for Davaoeños.

Through DCWD’s Adopt-a-Site Project, Apo Agua supported rehabilitating a 50-hectare site in Mt. Tipolog, planted and maintained 32,557 endemic fruit trees, and supported 46 Obu-Manuvu farmers.

A driver of a horse-drawn carriage gives water to his horse as they takes shelter under a tree along a road in Manila on April 24, 2024, as extreme heat affected the country. Extreme heat scorched the Philippines on April 24, forcing schools in some areas to suspend in-person classes and prompting warnings for people to limit the amount of time spent outdoors. Asia remained the world’s most disaster-affected region in 2023 due to weather, climate and waterrelated hazards, according to a World Meteorological Organization report last week. AFP

Asia hit hardest by climate change, extreme weather

ASIA remained the world’s most disaster-affected region in 2023 due to weather, climate and water-related hazards. Storms and floods have hit the hardest, a new report published by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) last week revealed.

Following close on the heels of the study of climate change in Europe, published by WMO on May 22, the State of the Climate in Asia 2023 report highlighted the accelerating rate of climate change across several indicators such as surface temperature, glacier retreat, sea level rise and more.

“The report’s conclusions are sobering. Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage

Pueblo de Oro commits to preserve nature and aims to plant more

PUBLE De Oro Development Corp. (PDO), one of the property development arms of the ICCP Group and a dedicated advocate for environmental preservation, considers tree planting activities an integral part of its mission. Through its social development arm, ICCP Group Foundation Inc. (IGFI), Pueblo de Oro has incorporated ecological initiatives. such as tree planting across its project sites nationwide, including Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Pampanga, and Batangas. These activities are strategically planned to promote sustainability at every step. Participation in these green initiatives extends beyond the company itself, with enthusiastic involvement from employees, homeowners, public

trees

organizations, local government units and private entities eager to contribute to environmental conservation efforts.

The statement “We aren’t just ‘planting trees’, we’re changing lives” resonates strongly during these endeavors, underscoring the company’s deep commitment to environmental sustainability. These efforts not only ensure a safe and worry-free lifestyle for residents but also create an environment conducive to family life.

Pueblo de Oro’s residential projects prioritize harmony with nature, showcased through the meticulously designed Westwoods subdivision and EDGE-certified Westwoods Storeys condominium project in Cagayan de Oro City.

Eight ways to overcome the waste pollution crisis

CONCLUSION

5. PLASTIC POLLUTION. Plastics are commonly used in electronics, textiles and single-use products. Some 85 percent of single-use plastic bottles, containers and packaging end up in landfills or are mismanaged. Because plastic does not biodegrade, it contributes to major health impacts as microplastics infiltrate food and water sources.

In addition to phasing out single-use plastics and improving waste management, establishing a global monitoring and reporting system can help end plastic pollution.

6. HAZARDOUS WASTE.Chemicals are prevalent in daily life—electronics can contain mercury, cosmetics may have lead and cleaning supplies often have persistent organic pollutants. Chemical and hazardous waste require specialized treatment and disposal, yet some governments fail to meet standards set in the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) conventions. Hazardous chemicals and waste cross borders, unauthorized or even illegally. Governments can commit to multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs), like the BRS conventions, which institutionalize intergovernmental and crosssectoral cooperation through binding targets and action plans. Citizens can

of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo, Climate change has exacerbated the frequency and severity of such events that profoundly impact societies, economies, and most importantly, human lives, she said. With the warming trend almost doubling since the period from 1960–1990, Asia is heating up faster than the global average, with increased casualties and economic losses from floods, storms and more severe heatwaves.

In 2023, sea-surface temperatures in the northwest Pacific Ocean were the highest on record. Even the Arctic Ocean suffered a marine heatwave. In

many areas of the region, including the Arabian Sea, the southern Kara Sea and the southeastern Laptev Sea, the sea surface is warming more than three times faster than globally. The Barents Sea was identified by the report as a “climate change hotspot.”

Driven by thermal expansion and the melting of glaciers, ice caps and ice sheets, sea level continued to rise globally. However, in Asia, rates were higher than the global mean over 1993–2023.

Last year, the continent saw 79 water hazard-related disasters, with over 80 percent linked to floods and storms, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities and affecting nine million people directly, according to the Emergency Events Database. UN News

BIODIVERSITY 101

Wella Mayor

The greening impact of modern trains

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) early this month closed a major section of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) line to give way to the construction of the much-awaited North South Commuter Railways (NSCR) project, the 147-kilometer modern train system that will connect Calamba City in the south to the New Clark International Airport in the north.

The project will help solve the traffic crisis in Metro Manila that has recently worsened to unprecedented levels and will speed up the dispersion of economic opportunities to areas outside of the National Capital Region.

They have long been recognized as one of the most environmentally friendly means of mass transit.

There is one more major benefit that the NSCR may bring about that the government may not yet have explained enough. This is the benefit to the environment that the NSCR and the other railway transportation projects promise.

The fact is there is a global consensus that rail-based transportation systems have a positive impact on the environment. They have long been recognized as one of the “most environmentally friendly means of mass transit.” They offer much lower carbon emissions. They consume energy more efficiently than other transportation modes.

Recent findings show that trains emit from 66 percent to 80 percent less carbon than airplanes and cars. EcoPassenger, an online tool used to measure emissions from cumulative energy consumption, showed that getting on a plane from London to Paris will emit around 122 kilograms of carbon dioxide per passenger, compared with 48 kilograms by car and only 8.3 kilograms by train.

In Australia, the New South Wales government said it has documented that only 2.6 percent of that country’s total greenhouse gas emissions can be traced to rail transportation systems, with passenger trains contributing even less.

In Europe, the European Environment Agency (EEA) is clearly batting for a shift to greater use of trains following the European Union’s (EU) commitment to the European Green Deal. The deal aims

to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2050.

Rail transportation, interestingly, contributes a mere 0.4 percent and that share is accounted for mostly by EU’s remaining fleet of diesel trains, according to the EEA.

The good news is that the NSCR will not be using diesel trains, but electricitypowered trains.

Recent media reports said Mitsubishi Corp. of Japan won the contract to supply the trains that will be used by the airport express service of the NSCR.

The same reports said Mitsubishi has decided to outsource the design and manufacturing of the rolling stock to Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocariles (CAF), and that the latter is set to build seven EMUs or “electric multiple unit” trains for the said airport express service. This is a welcome piece of news. EMUs are popular globally because they accelerate faster and operate pollution-free. They are quieter than the antiquated diesel trains that had been plying the PNR route for decades.

Some of the most famous high-speed trains in the world are EMUs. One that we, Filipinos, must be familiar with is Japan’s “Bullet Train” or the “Shinkansen.” The system’s trains are EMUs and run on 25-kilovolt overhead power supply.

We hope that all the other rolling stocks that will be used in the NSCR will also be EMUs.

The ultimate challenge, of course, would be convincing car owners to take the NSCR when it starts operating. Less cars on the road does not only mean less traffic—it also means less greenhouse gas emission.

The NSCR promises to have a significant greening impact. It is a good deal which we hope the public patronizes and optimizes when it starts operations. Editor’s Notes: Ms. Wella Mayor is a distinguished advocacy communicator with a profound focus on agriculture, environment and telecommunications. With a robust background serving in both governmental and private sectors, she has honed her expertise as a consultant for local and multinational corporations, as well as non-governmental organizations. Through her work, she has contributed significantly in raising awareness about pressing environmental challenges and promoting solutions for their mitigation and adaptation.

Manila Standard’s Biodiversity 101 column is open to contributors who share the advocacies of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices that are being pushed by the United Nations. Such contributions are subject to the availability of space and the paper’s editorial policies. The contributions should not exceed 600 words or 4,000 characters.

Westwoods in Cagayan de Oro is surrounded by a 40-hectare urban rainforest.

SHOWBIZ

BINI hits the high notes with new collab

By Nickie Wang

BINI , living up to its title as the “Nation’s Girl Group,” has taken the music scene by storm with its infectious summer single “Pantropiko” and the bubbly “Salamin, Salamin.” These trending hits have exploded on social media, with fans worldwide creating dance covers in celebration of the group.

Comprised of members Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena , BINI’s international reach was further amplified by its recent performance on the Chinese idol show Show It All . There, the fast-rising P-Pop group showcased its other viral hit, “Karera,” and the upbeat track “I Feel Good.”

As the group continues to top charts and amass millions of streams across various platforms, retail pioneer Puregold announced a collaboration with the popular girl group. It unveiled a teaser video hinting at original music from BINI.

Puregold previously released a teaser featuring an original song by SunKissed Lola , stirring anticipation for an inspiring anthem about self-upliftment. The release of BINI’s teaser, on the other hand, centers

on the theme of personal empowerment and celebrating change.

“Puregold will continue to excite listeners with more surprises related to this venture,” the retail giant said in a statement. “We are committed to championing Original Pilipino Music

Editor

Writer

Shticks

Joseph Peter Gonzales

Enzo Pineda sees future with girlfriend Michelle Vito

(OPM) and reaching out to diverse communities and music genres.”

“Through this effort, the company also aims to highlight the ‘ panalo stories’ of each talented local musician—and inspire Filipinos to write their own ticket to success,” the statement added.

‘Challengers’ scores big at box office

MGM’s tennis-based romance Challengers opened this weekend atop the North American box office, taking in an estimated $15 million behind positive reviews and the powerful net game of actor/singer Zendaya , industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday.

“This is a strong opening for a romance and sports drama,” said analyst David A. Gross , crediting Zendaya’s star power and the directorial talents of Luca Guadagnino ( Call Me By Your Name ).

“This is the right material with the right director, featuring the right star at the right time,” Gross said.

Zendaya plays a tennis prodigy who retires after an injury, then later helps her husband ( Mike Faist ) prepare for a key

match against a player ( Josh O’Connor ) who, awkwardly enough, is both her former lover and his onetime best friend.

Zendaya, who can play tennis in real life, trained for three months with tennis pro Brad Gilbert, and Guadagnino told Variety that she was so good he rarely had to use film of her double.

In second spot for the Friday-throughSunday period was another new release, Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company’s faith-based drama Unsung Hero , at $7.8 million.

The partly fact-based film follows a man who moves his music-loving family from Australia to the United States after his concert promotion business collapses. Friendly fellow churchgoers and the power of prayer (spoiler alert) just might help him and his seven kids turn things around.

In third, for the second straight weekend, was Warner Bros.’ Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire , at $7.2 million. The humongous gorilla and giant reptile, not natural buddies, team up this time to save their species – and ours.

Meantime, A24’s Civil War , a disturbing saga about a dystopian America in the near future, dropped three places from last weekend’s top spot, earning $7 million.

Kirsten Dunst plays a veteran photojournalist who finds herself increasingly tormented as she travels through a bloodsoaked country in hopes of interviewing a besieged third-term president.

And in fifth, down two spots, was Universal’s horror film Abigail at $5.3 million. Alisha Weir plays 12-year-old Abigail, whose kidnappers learn too late that she is a killer vampire. AFP

ACTOR Enzo Pineda expressed his commitment to his longtime girlfriend, Michelle Vito, in a recent interview. Pineda considers Vito “the one” and they’ve discussed marriage, but are currently focused on their careers and businesses.

The couple has been together for four years and maintains a drama-free relationship. “We just show our true selves,” Pineda said, attributing their stability to open communication.

“I know that Michelle still has personal goals she wants to achieve in her acting career. But definitely, we’re on a good path and we’re simply glad that our relationship is going strong,” he adds.

Interestingly, what’s the ideal marrying age for him?

“I can say that it’s anytime soon. This is the right age –between 30 to late 30s. I’m 33 at present.”

Despite the recent string of celebrity breakups, Pineda remains optimistic.

“I don’t think we’ll end up that way,” Pineda assures. “Definitely, the recent breakups of celebrity couples are disheartening. But for me, as long as Michelle and I have good communication and the love we have for each other is there, nothing and no one can make us drift apart,” Pineda concludes mentioning that their relationship, despite being celebrities, is low-key.

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Asked what character he would like to portray on screen given the chance, promising newcomer Andres Muhlach who recently signed a contract with Viva Artists Agency, reveals that it would be Palos

“It’s the signature film of my late grandfather, Bernard Bonnin. He’s my mother’s dad. I never really got the chance to spend time with him or really speak to him, so if I had to pick a movie, it would be ‘Palos,’ that character role,” he says.

How about when it comes to his dad Aga Muhlach’s works?

Which among these are his favorites?

“I would say it’s Kailangan Kita, where he shared stellar billing with Ms. Claudine Barretto. Recently, I also got to watch Dubai, where he appeared with Ms. Claudine again and Mr. John Lloyd Cruz. It was a great film. It made me actually tear up a bit,” he admits.

“John Lloyd is a great actor. The way he acted in that particular movie was really, really different, and it flowed well with the story. His dynamic with my dad was really nice to see as well.”

Standing at a solid 6’2”, he has a well-built physique. What does he do to maintain it?

“I do workouts. This includes lifting weights at least four times a week. I also play basketball at least two to three times a week,” Andres shares. His twin sister, Atasha Muhlach, is currently doing well as a co-host of Eat Bulaga. Many are toying with the idea of him joining the rival show. If ever, will it be a problem?

“I wouldn’t say it’s a problem, really. At the end of the day, we’re all just trying to do our job or make sense of our job, so I wouldn’t say that there will be a problem,” says Andres.

Actor Enzo Pineda (right) with his long-time girlfriend actress Michelle Vito

Actress Zendaya stars as tennis prodigy Tashi in Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Challengers’

Andres Muhlach is optimistic with his bustling career as a new artist under Viva Artists Agency

Editor

VILLANUEVA, Writer

Eco-centric living weaves breathable spaces in harmony with nature

RESIDENTIAL property developers are acknowledging the need to integrate ecocentric living into their masterplan, a concept that is emerging as a non-negotiable lifestyle principle for a growing number of individuals aspiring for a healthier relationship with the world around them.

In light of this, Tagaytay Highlands introduces its newest residential district, Midlands West, a 320-hectare mixed-use enclave that is founded on the exclusive mountain resort’s much-touted values of ecocentrism, sustainability, health and wellness, and luxurious mountain living. Such distinct features are manifest in the district’s very first residential community to break ground – Trealva at Midlands West.

Trealva, a 19.9-hectare property that nestles within the breathtaking landscape of Midlands West, is a beacon of ecocentrism and sustainable living, embodying respect for nature in every aspect of its design and ethos.

“As the world becomes increasingly defined by rapid urbanization and relentless technological advancement, the allure of slowing down and rekindling a bond with our natural environment has never been stronger,” says SM Prime Holdings subsidiary Highlands Prime, Inc.

(HPI) Senior Vice President Lennie Mendoza

“The lush environment of Midlands West serves as the perfect canvas for Trealva. With design pillars anchored on ecocentrism, Tagaytay Highlands’ newest luxury residential community seamlessly weaves the serenity of nature with the comfort of its modern amenities,” adds Mendoza.

Trealva derives its name from Scandinavian and Latin roots, adhering to the property’s promise of a “bright, exalted land” where residents can experience the transformative power of living in spaces that breathe.

Through thoughtful and minimalist architecture, Trealva

Beyond the bite

How ginger farmers became Mang Inasal heroes

By Tet Defensor

MANG Inasal chicken is pure delight and the thriving livelihood behind the ginger used for its marinade is equally inspiring.

A group of hardworking ginger farmers are now supplying institutional food companies while expanding their knowledge in agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Under the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) of the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) this new breed of suppliers certainly does more than just toil the land. They have access to new knowledge, technology, and even business capital.

“FEP enables farmers to be agro-entrepreneurs, magsasaka na, businessmen pa. The goal is to empower them so that collectively they can sell their produce to institutional markets,” explains L. A. Cruzat, JFC Program Director. The initiative was conceived by the food giant’s founder and chairman Tony Tan Caktiong. “As a food company, how can we help farmers have better income?” he once asked

not only complements its surroundings but actively enhances them, inspiring a deep connection and a sense of belonging

during a board meeting. It was not an easy question, according to L.A. nonetheless they addressed the challenge.

Assessing the problems faced by local farmers, the foundation focused on the growth potential of serving institutional markets versus regular retail. Supplying to big companies translates to higher income and a more sustainable livelihood. Farmers can readily sell their produce to marketgoers, but difficulties arise when they supply to big food companies. “Institutional markets prefer to deal with bulk suppliers because they look for volume, quality, and timeliness of delivery,” L.A. explained.

The Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) empowers farmers with the right skill set so they can collectively sell to institutional buyers. This initiative is implemented JGF in partnership with stakeholders, for example, Ahon sa Hirap Inc. (ASHI) a microfinance NGO, worked with JGF to support the ginger farmers in Tanay, Rizal.

among health, wellness, and nature advocates who call it home.

At Trealva, future residents can design and build their dream homes as breathable spaces, with organic themes that foster a greater love for nature and its preservation. Natural light will flood through the expansive windows, and the innovative use of natural resources will bring elements of the outdoors into the residence, creating an environment that feels alive and rejuvenating.

With 40 percent of the project dedicated to open spaces and stunning greenery, would-be residents can take in clear, sweeping views of the natural surroundings. Immaculate rain gardens are also strategically integrated throughout the property, serving as havens of tranquility where wellness and nature converge.

Families at Trealva may immerse themselves in a plethora of outdoor activities, ranging from passive relaxation to exhilarating adventures. Sustainable parks, with lush green patches of nature, serve as communal spaces where residents may gather to unwind, socialize, and recharge amidst the beauty of the outdoors.

The centerpiece of Trealva’s recreational offerings is its exclusive clubhouse, boasting unparalleled views of picturesque Taal Lake and Volcano as well as the mountains around it. Residents enjoy exclusive access to a host of amenities, including adult and kiddie pools, and an expansive event lawn perfect for hosting social functions and celebrations.

In recognition of its steadfast commitment to continuously provide safe and secure facilities for its residents, and their guests, Tagaytay Highlands was recently awarded the Safety Seal of the City Government of Tagaytay.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development has likewise named HPI as one of CALABARZON’s 2021 Outstanding Developers for Open Market Projects. HPI has also earned a Bronze Recognition for Developer of the Year (Luzon) from The Outlook 2023 Philippine Real Estate Awards.

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The AGAP Farmers’ Association is composed of 37 farmers. Initially, they have been peddling their products on their own and have been trying to find a stable market to increase their income. The training and support from FEP enabled them to produce high-quality ginger that met the standards of institutional markets like Jollibee and Mang Inasal.

“By purchasing directly from farmers, Mang Inasal can support our farmers. They have more opportunities to earn and become entrepreneurs themselves,” said Mang Inasal Business Unit Head Mike V. Castro

to collectively sell to institutional buyers

Under the program, farmers now receive weather updates via text messages, so they can efficiently schedule the perfect time to plant, harvest, and apply fertilizer. They also benefit from volunteer coaching on post-harvest practices as well as pest and disease management given by agri experts of PUM Netherlands, a Dutch NGO.

On your next Mang Inasal visit, make sure to savor every bite. Local farmers went to great lengths for your tasty meal.

The AGAP group started supplying spring onions to Jollibee in 2017, with the help of ASHI. In 2021, they expanded their products to include fresh ginger, and in 2023 they began supplying to Mang Inasal. They have delivered over 36,000 kilos of ginger to the fast food chain. Product quality depends on different factors like the weather or problems like pests and diseases.