Manila Standard - 2024 May 8 - Wednesday

Marcos orders measures to ensure water security

DENR rules out water rationing but urges conservation

By Charles Dantes, Macon Ramos-Araneta, Othel Campos and Rio Araja

UNDERSCORING

the plight of some 40 million Filipinos who lack formal water supply, President Marcos on Tuesday ordered the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and related agencies to develop an integrated water resource masterplan.

Mr. Marcos directed the DENR to implement effective water management strategies, especially in addressing El Niño-induced water scarcity and La Niña-related flooding, DENR Undersecretary Carlos David said.

"The directive of the President this morning was very clear—40 million of our residents, of Filipinos, do not have access to a formal water supply. They still access water from springs, from creeks, some even rainwater—they rely on rainwater for drinking water purposes," said David, who heads the department's National Water Resource Board.

"We have to focus on the 40 million underserved population and there are a few strategies that we have in mind in order for us to provide water to these communities," the DENR official added.

While the majority of the 40 million Filipinos who have issues with water supply reside in Mindanao, particularly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), dams in parts of Luzon are also drying up amid the El Niño phenomenon.

THE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday that the country’s inflation rate for the bottom 30 percent income households increased to 5.2 percent in April 2024 from 4.6 percent in March. This brings the average inflation for this income group from January to April 2024 to 4.4 percent, lower than what the nation posted in the same period last year at 7.4 percent. PSA said the main driver of the upward trend for the overall inflation for the said income group was the high year-onyear growth rate of the heavilyweighted food and non-alcoholic beverages at 8.1 percent from 7.1 percent in the previous month.

“The slower annual decline in the housing, water, electricity,

NEARING DANGER LEVEL. Angat Dam’s water level, as of yesterday, has dropped from 212 meters to 185.65 meters, close to its minimum operating level of 180 meters. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has ruled out water rationing in Metro Manila but said that they have reduced water pressure for households. Manny Palmero

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Philippines will “adjust” its resupply efforts in the West Philippine Sea and explore the possibility of deploying aerial supply missions to troops at Ayungin Shoal, the National Security Council said yesterday.

Trillanes cries destab anew; PNP sees none

FORMER Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Tuesday pointed an accusing finger at both retired and high-ranking officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as those behind the alleged ouster plot against Ferdinand Marcos Jr. These same officials were also said to be actively recruiting members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Trillanes said, “Some active and retired PNP officials have been identified as behind the destabilization efforts. Based on our information, the said officials have already been identified, making it hard for them to move.”

However, Trillanes reiterated, no one from the AFP had joined the ranks of destabilizers.

Trillanes refused to directly name his sources for the ouster plot, revealing only that he has friends in the Army. Asked whether his sources are in active duty or in the right position to gather and hold such information, the former senator said. “Yes”. However, the PNP spokesperson, Police Colonel Jean Fajardo, denied that any member of the police force is actively participating in the ouster plot.

According to Fajardo, “We have not monitored any active police officer that is involved in the alleged destabilization

President Marcos ordered for “certain adjustments” to be implemented in the resupply missions to troops stationed at the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal, NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said.

"There is an operational mix that is available to us. We can do other types

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture on Tuesday approved the proposed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) that aim to bring down rice prices.

of resupply other than a naval resupply.

We can do an airdrop, we can do other just to be able to resupply our troops and keep BRP Sierra Madre in working condition," Malaya said in an interview with ANC.

"Those adjustments, of course, are there so that we are no longer placed in a difficult position when

The committee’s approval came after President Marcos announced that he was prepared to certify the amendment proposals as urgent.

Speaker Martin Romualdez thanked the committee for approving the measure as quickly as possible,

we do our resupply missions," he added. The move came days after China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels water cannoned ships Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources ships headed to Bajo de Masinloc.

saying, “It is important that we provide our people, especially the poor, access to rice that is much cheaper than market prices.”

Romualdez said such access would be provided by returning the mandate of

By Maricel V. Cruz

Pinay photojournalist is ‘24 Pulitzer finalist

HANNAH Reyes Morales, Filipina photojournalist and New York Times contributor, is one of only two finalists in the Feature Photography category of the 2024 Pulitzer Prizes.

Morales was selected for her "creative series of photographs documenting a 'youthquake'" occurring in Africa, according to the awardgiving body. The other finalist is Morales’s

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gas and other fuels index at 1.9 percent during the month from a 2.5 percent annual decrease in the previous month also contributed to the uptrend of the overall inflation for this income group,” it added.

Food prices also moved at a faster pace at 8.5 percent in April compared to 7.4 percent in March. Its annual

#ANONGBALITA?

colleague, fellow New York Times contributor Nanna Heitmann. She is nominated “for poignant photographs, chronicling unprecedented masses of migrants and their arduous journey north from Colombia to the border of the United States.”

In a post on Instagram, Morales recalled how she felt when her edi

tors told her about the news.

increase was observed at 7.8 percent.

The PSA attributed this to the annual growth in various food items at 1.7 percent during the month.

Inflation for the same income group in Metro Manila, meanwhile, eased to 3.8 percent in April 2024 from 4.2 percent in March 2024. The PSA said this downtrend of the inflation in the area was brought about by the lower annual increment in the food and non-alcoholic beverages index at 4.6 percent in April 2024 from 5.2 percent in the previous month.

Hummingbirds, hooves take over annual Met Gala

FROM Bad Bunny's Tudor-inspired hat and shoes resembling cloven hooves to the hummingbird perched delicately on Zendaya's neck, the hosts set the tone at fashion's biggest night –the annual Met Gala in New York.

Florals, animals and vintage couture abounded at the so-called Oscars of the East Coast, a mammoth fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute.

The extravaganza's dress code this year is "The Garden of Time" – which draws inspiration from the 1962 short story of the same name, written by English writer J.G. Ballard.

In essence, it is about the ephemeral nature of beauty – perhaps a weighty theme to press on the luminaries attending this year's gala.

For sheer drama, co-host Zendaya dominated the green and cream carpet in her first appearance at the Met Gala since 2019.

The 27-year-old star made a highly-anticipated appearance early on wreathed in jewel-toned lame, organza and satin designed by John Galliano, with vines crawling up her duchess corset and arms – and what appeared to be a hummingbird nestled into her neck.

Hours later she made a surprise second appearance – this time in dramatic, Mexican Gothic-inspired black, her two outfits bookending the fashion parade and underscoring the transience of beauty.

Most attendees chose to evoke awakenings and life – and perhaps defied the theme by demonstrating the immortality of fashion through the centuries, with many 17th and 18th century flourishes.

Some – such as singer Lana del Rey – emphasized decay, with stark sculptural twigs rising from her gown to hold a veil of tulle like a

canopy over her head.

South African singer Tyla's strapless Balmain gown evoking the sands of time – right down to the hourglass purse – was sculpted so tightly to her body that she had to be carried up the steps at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny evoked a kind of Tudor matador with a sweeping hat and a black bouquet, with the only pop of color his bright red inseam and the patent shine of his cloven shoes.

Cardi B was resplendent in funereal black, with a train so expansive it required nine tuxedoed men to lift it up the stairs.

"It's a black rose," she told journalists.

The gala was first held in 1948 and for decades was reserved for New York high society. Vogue Editorin-Chief Anna Wintour, the high priestess of US fashion, took over the show in the 1990s, transforming the party into a catwalk for the rich and famous.

This year, a ticket cost a cool $75,000, with tables starting at $350,000. The 2023 gala – which celebrated the late designer Karl Lagerfeld – raised nearly $22 million, a record sum.

The spectacle is social media catnip for celebrity watchers – and once again this year, both the gala and the exhibit are co-sponsored by TikTok.

The tech world joined luminaries of music, film, politics and sports on the carpet, with TikTok CEO Shou Chew, also an honorary co-chair, in attendance.

Outside the event, several hundred protesters against the war in Gaza demonstrated nearby, with security tight and several arrests made as stars walked the red carpet. AFP

Star dog Messi to interview stars on Cannes fest

MESSI, star of Oscar-winning movie "Anatomy of a Fall," which won the top prize at Cannes last year, will return to the festival next week as a red-carpet interviewer to the stars.

Using a special 360-degree microphone and camera attached to his back, the Border Collie will chat with stars thanks to an actor behind the scenes.

"He's the star... I'm just lending him my voice," said comedian Raphael Mezrahi.

The resulting short clips will be available on French channels and TikTok.

Messi earned global attention for his role in "Anatomy of a Fall," winning the Palm Dog prize for best canine performance at Cannes. He then lit up social media when he was snapped with the likes of Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper and Billie Eilish during the Oscar campaign.

He has proved his acting chops: in one scene in the film, he had to feign intoxication and vomiting.

It took two months of preparation, said coach and owner Laura Martin, during which Messi learned to position his neck strangely and be "carried with his body very limp" to look unconscious.

Fake vomit came out of a tube placed under his mouth. "He didn't

like that bit," said Martin.

But he was certainly having fun during AFP's recent visit to his home.

In exchange for chunks of sausage, he struck different poses – paw on nose, standing frozen still, barking to the camera – as he recorded messages for stars such as Emma Stone, who will appear at Cannes in her new film, "Kinds of Kindness."

"People have told me: 'Messi would be better off resting in his garden,' but he knows his garden by heart. He loves people, he likes to be involved in the game," said Martin. She had been a dog trainer and fell into the cinema world by chance, never dreaming "it would go this far."

Messi, named after the footballer by one of Martin's children, had been rejected for screen appearances in the past as "too beautiful and taking up too much space," she said.

There is another acting dog in the apartment – Renard, a pocket-sized Prague Ratter, who appeared alongside Jean Dujardin ("The Artist") in French comedy "Presidents."

But Messi is the star and Martin reveals he has been offered an "American script" since his appearance at the Oscars, though she won't say more. AFP

"I’m still in a daze since that call, overwhelmed and grateful for the chance to have worked on this story," she said.

Morales said the assignment "was not the easiest."

"But those we photographed helped us understand, bit by bit, what it means to be young and reshaping Africa, and the world," she said.

The Pulitzer Prizes are prestigious awards in journalism, literature, drama, and music composition, established by Joseph Pulitzer, a Hungarian-American journalist and newspaper publisher. They were first awarded in 1917 and are administered by Columbia University in New York City.

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As of May 6, Angat Dam's level stood at 185.65 meters above sea level (masl), lower than its normal water level of 212 masl.

Angat Dam supplies 97 percent of the water demands for Metro Manila and provides irrigation for farmers in Bulacan and Pampanga.

David said the DENR plans to decrease water allocation to Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System through its concessionaires Maynilad and Manila Water by May 16.

He said by May 20 or 21, the water level at Angat Dam will dip to its minimum operating level of 180 meters.

Despite the reduced allocation, he assured consumers there will be no water interruptions even with a lowered allocation of 49 cubic meters per second.

MWSS spokesperson Patrick Dizon said they are poised to borrow 2 cubic meters of water from the National Irrigation Authority to augment water supply in the metropolis following an advisory from the National Water Regulatory Boardreducing water allocation in the second half of May.

“This will not in any way affect our farmers since rice cropping is at its peak in Bulacan and there’s no immediate use for irrigation water in the province,” he said.

He confirmed the NWRB has reduced water allocation from Angat Dam to 49 million liters (mld) starting May 16 until the end of the month.

“We just need to hurdle this until the summer months. By June and July, the rainy season starts, we can use impounded water even as our water allocation from Angat remains at a reduced level,” Dizon added.

Manila Water said it will continue to monitor water supply and demand in its concession area until next week before it can issue guidelines for a final

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“That will be a problem, as far as I can see, we are with the [UN], so of course [the question is] are we willing to risk our relationship here with the [UN]? Of course, we should have some foreign relationships we also keep it,” Chua said in a news conference.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has consistently maintained that his administration will not cooperate with the ICC's inquiry that deals with the numerous killings during his predecessor's war on drugs.

However, Chua argued that President Marcos does not need to alter his stance because the Philippines can still engage with the ICC through the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), an independent constitutional body.

“[CHR] is an independent body. It is not under the Office of the President nor under the Legislative Department,” Chua pointed out.

The lawmaker affirmed the authority of CHR to investigate human rights violations, citing Republic Act 9851, which grants jurisdiction over crimes against humanity and war crimes to the Regional Trial Court, aligning with the focus of the ICC.

Chua, a lawyer, also addressed concerns about the consequences of

Trillanes...

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plot. And we have not monitored any destabilization plot for that matter.”

Fajardo also assured the public that the police force is currently focused on its mandate, something that goes without saying.

Pressed to point out who was masterminding the plot, Trillanes quipped: “Duterte camp.”

“It goes without saying. They would not move without Duterte's imprimatur. And we can see it in his public pronouncements. These are statements meant to agitate, to incite sedition and

distribution scheme to its customers in the East Zone.

Maynilad Water Services Inc. has yet to issue a statement. At the Upper House, David told Senator Grace Poe that the functions of the different agencies dealing with water resources should be consolidated, if not streamlined.

"The root of our water crisis is actually a crisis in regulation. The problem is not that we don't have resources but that we do not effectively manage our resources," Poe said. "Our problem is the system," she said.

Senator JV Ejercito, for his part, expressed concern over the periodic water shortages in Metro Manila.

During the public hearing on proposals to create the Department of Water Resources and the Water Regulatory Commission yesterday, Ejercito asked the MWSS if Laiban Dam and Kaliwa Dam would be operational by 2028.

“The (main) source of water for Metro Manila is still the Angat dam. Finally, we will have a second source of water. When will the Laiban dam be operational?” the senator said.

MWSS administrator Leonor Cleofas, for her part, said Metro Manila will be able to enjoy water from the Kaliwa and Laiban dams by 2027.

MWSS said the completion of the Kaliwa Dam will lower Metro Manila’s reliance on Angat to 70 percent. As for immediate solutions, David said concerned agencies are planning to address the water scarcity through the desalination process.

"The first strategy we thought of for small island barangays, and we're already set on it, we've started this program, is to provide them with fresh water, drinking water through the desalination process," David said.

“Over the years, the technology has improved tremendously and now we have what are called the modular desalination systems," he added.

the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC in 2019.

He pointed out that even after withdrawing, the ICC still has authority over crimes committed while the country was a member.

Chua said that what the ICC can do is to coordinate with the CHR.

“If by chance the ICC makes a decision, we have to remember that we have an agreement with the UN, and the UN and the ICC have a cooperation agreement,” he pointed out.

In a previously issued statement, Chua emphasized that as a sovereign state and a founding member of the UN, the Philippines is obligated to adhere to international law.

He also warned against obstructing the ICC investigation.

“Being a sovereign state in the international community and Founding Member of the UN, the Philippines is legally-bound to follow international law, including the UN Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, and to respect the United Nations Laissez-Passer or the UN Passport and all holders of the UN Passport,” Chua explained. He added, “If the Philippines denies entry to the ICC Prosecutor, Investigators, and Staff that would be a direct offense to the UN and can make our country an outcast or pariah, along with the accompanying diplomatic and international crises.”

rebellion,” he said.

On this note, Duterte's presidential spokesperson, Atty. Harry Roque said the remarks of Trillanes stemmed from "hallucinations and hangover from his coup d'etat days."

Former Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Tuesday called the ouster plot “absolute nonsense”.

In a statement, Panelo said Trillanes' recent remarks were for the latter's publicity and cited his previous misdeeds as a member of the military and Senate.

“The renegade only wants publicity for himself because he has become totally politically irrelevant," Panelo said.

"He is discredited. His past misdeeds as a military man and public official speak for themselves," he added.

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Malaya said while he does not expect Beijing to stop using intimidation and "scare tactics" in the West Philippine Sea, Manila "will not be deterred" and "will do what is necessary to keep our troops supplied."

"If the Chinese think that it’s going to fade into the sea any time soon, no it’s not. It is being maintained by the Philippine government...It’s not going anywhere," he said.

For its part, the Department of Foreign Affairs denied the Philippines entered into a so-called “new model” agreement with China, saying no official from the Marcos administration had acted on its behalf in connection with the Ayungin Shoal issue.

"The DFA wishes to emphasize that only the President of the Republic of the Philippines can approve or authorize agreements entered into by the Philippine Government on matters pertaining to the West Philippine Sea and South China Sea," the DFA said in a statement.

"In this respect, the DFA can confirm that no Cabinet-level official of the Marcos administration has agreed to any Chinese proposal pertaining to the Ayungin Shoal," the department added. According to the DFA, as far as the Philippine government is concerned, "no such document, record or deal exists, as purported by the Chinese Embassy."

Malaya said Beijing’s claim was not worth investigating, describing it as a “trap of China."

"The basis of this claim is simply the statement coming from the Chinese Embassy. We don’t even know who they talked to. All they say is they talked to Wescom (Western Command). The more that we enter into this narrative and react to their statements, the more that Chinese propaganda gains traction and that is against our interests," he added.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila earlier said Wescom made an agreement with Beijing early this year on a so-called "new model" for managing the situation at the Ayungin Shoal. It claimed the so-called "new model" was approved by the Philippine government, including the Department of National Defense, which denied the claim.

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the National Food Authority (NFA) not only to buy palay from farmers, but also to sell rice directly to consumers. He earlier estimated that rice prices could fall from P10 to P15 per kilo.

On Monday, Romualdez met with Department of Agriculture (DA) officials who agreed to the plan to sell cheaper rice through Kadiwa stores. The House leader has also vowed to have the RTL changes approved on third and final reading by his chamber before Congress goes on its annual sine die adjournment this month.

The panel's chairperson, Rep. Mark Enverga of Quezon told reporters that the approved measure “will ensure that there will be the presence of NFA to stabilize the price of rice,” so that people can buy rice at more affordable costs and the government can fend off exploitative market traders.

Enverga said the NFA should always be ready to intervene in the market to bring down prices, especially in emergency cases. He said the approved bill would still have to go through the committee on ways and means at “the soonest possible.”

“Of course, we know how important this is to Speaker Martin Romualdez. He wants to realize that we can lower the price. Likewise, as announced by the President, he is very much willing to certify this measure. So, this is our way to have affordable rice for our countrymen,” he said partly in Filipino. For his part, Deputy Majority Leader for Communications and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo said the House efforts to bring down rice prices could get derailed in the Senate.

Solon flags election law violations if Miru counts votes in 2025 polls

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Rodante Marcoleta of SAGIP party-list group on Tuesday urged his colleagues to carry on with their ongoing inquiry on alleged irregularities in the P18-billion automated vote-counting contract between the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and controversial South Korean firm Miru Systems Co. Ltd.

Marcoleta, a lawyer, also flagged violations of Republic Act (RA) 9369 or the Automated Election Law should the Comelec will allow Miru to proceed in using its reportedly “two-systems-in-one” to collect and count votes in the 2025 midterm polls, to be conducted just close to one year from now.

DPWH urged to revamp ood control strategies, plans

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to revamp its flood control strategies, emphasizing the need for integration with other sectors to optimize water management and conservation efforts.

During a press briefing on Tuesday, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan underscored the President’s directive to develop effective flood control programs.

“You know, I think we have to integrate our flood control management programs with the other sectors so that the water that we manage in the flood control does not go to the sea indirectly and to the extent possible that we have to conserve and utilize it for the other purposes like for irrigation, water supply and power if necessary,” Bonoan said Bonoan further elaborated on the President’s instructions, emphasizing the necessity to incorporate additional structures for irrigation, water supply, and power generation within the department’s flood control projects, given the substantial increase in the multi-year budget allocated for such initiatives.

Bonoan stated that for 2024, the DPWH’s budget for flood control projects exceeded P300 billion, presenting a significant opportunity to develop an integrated water resource management program. During a recent sectoral meeting, President Marcos reiterated the importance of a comprehensive water resource master plan, particularly in light of climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña.

He called for concerted efforts to explore foreign funding opportunities for priority investment areas and emphasized the ongoing development of National Irrigation Administration (NIA) dams for multipurpose use, including agricultural irrigation, freshwater supply, power generation, and flood control. Last year, President Marcos signed an executive order establishing the Water Management Office (WMO) within the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), underscoring his administration’s commitment to sustainable water resource management.

At a hearing of the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms on Tuesday, Marcoleta recalled that the Supreme Court last month nullified the Comelec’s resolution disqualifying Smartmatic from the bidding for next year’s automated elections supplier. Smartmatic had

FACING THE MEDIA. Davao Oriental 2nd District Rep. Cheeno Miguel Almario (right) answers questions from the media during a press conference at the Media Center of the House of Representatives on Tuesday. Also in photo are (from left) Zambalez 1st District Rep. Je erson Khonghun; Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores; Surigao Del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco Jose Matugas; Deputy Majority Leader and PBA Partylist Rep. Margarita Nograles; and 1 Rider Party List Rep. Rodge Gutierrez. Ver Noveno

been the automated machines and services provider during elections held between 2010 and 2022.

“The Supreme Court nullified the [Comelec] resolution because it was committed with grave abuse of discretion. Yet, the bidding was not nullified -- so there’s inconsistency,” Marcoleta pointed out.

The Comelec has defended the awarded contract to Miru together with its similarly controversial local partners. The poll body had even warned of election preparation delays if they reneged on the deal.

“Smartmatic was disqualified even before it was able to submit its bid; even the legal requirements were not considered. So there’s a violation” on the part of the Comelec, the party-list

representative noted.

“The Supreme Court used the doctrine of operative fact, which will only apply if there is good faith. So the Comelec should establish that there is good faith,” he explained.

However, Marcoleta pointed to the House committee’s own minutes showing that their previous meetings highlighted the many controversies surrounding Miru and the other members of its consortium.

Lawmakers and members of the House panel had been wary about the failures of automated elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Iraq, and other countries where Miru had taken part. Marcoleta cited the report from Reuters last March as a testament to this.

IN BRIEF

Defense naval base eyed in Catanduanes

A DEFENSE naval base will be built in Catanduanes to protect the island province from any possible foreign intrusion.

Catanduanes Governor Joseph Cua told the Manila Standard that he is scouting for an at least five-hectare lot where the naval base may be constructed as a Chinese-flagged vessel keeps loitering near the province.

“It could be somewhere in the town of Viga or Panganiban, Catanduanes,” Cua said.

The governor added he did not personally see the vessel but only learned of its presence from the news. The spotted Chinese vessel is quite distant as it is almost four times the travel from Albay to Catanduanes, he explained.

However, the governor said his office already wrote a letter to the concerned authorities of the Armed Forces of the

DOJ says ASG member admits guilt

Bangsaja ruled that that the jail term “shall be served successively, and the period of detention of the accused shall be given full credit.”

Asnalul entered into a plea bargaining concession with the prosecution and her plea was allowed by the trial court. Rey E. Requejo

No Pinoys hurt in twin Taiwan tremors

NO Filipinos have been reported injured or killed in the twin earthquakes that struck Taiwan, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). “There are no immediate reports of injuries among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), but MWOs in Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung are reaching out to Filipino leaders, communities, employers, and trade associations to ascertain the status of OFWs,” the DMW said. In an advisory, the DMW said Taiwan was struck by twin 5.9 quakes late Monday, just “minutes” apart and the Island was placed on high alert. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration reported the first quake at 5:45 p.m. while the second followed seven minutes later at 5:52 p.m. The DMW said its migrant workers offices, together with the Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration and the Manila Economic and Cultural Office are continuously monitoring the situation.

On April 3, a strong quake hit Taiwan and at least four Filipinos were injured during the earthquake. Vito Barcelo

AFP dismisses change of command rumors in WesCom

By Vince Lopez

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday dismissed replacement rumors within Western Command (WesCom).

AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel

Margareth Padilla said that the current WesCom chief, Vice-Admiral Alberto Carlos has filed a leave which he submitted personally.

“He filed for a leave, the issue has no connection to the new model, It has noth-

ing to do with the issue, it was coincidental,” Padilla said in a text message.

“We cannot dictate when an officer wants to file for a leave, as to the timing, it could be coincidental but it was a prerogative of an individual when he/ she wants to file for a leave, we gave leave balances that we consume so he (VADM Carlos) availed it,” she added.

Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Center chief, Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres is currently acting WesCom chief.

Padilla also said that the duration of the personal leave of Carlos was not specified when he submitted his request.

“It was not specified until when was his leave, He (VADM Carlos) did not mention it to us,” the AFP spox said.

Padilla also said that the appointment of Torres was based on seniority.

“The appointment was based on who will be designated to the position. It depends on who will be designated, so the usual was especially this was a critical area, so a senior officer will also be

put in place not necessarily the deputy, they will place someone with a higher rank,” the military spokesperson said in a phone call. Carlos has yet to release a statement following his alleged involvement in the so-called “new model” of management at Ayungin Shoal, which was reportedly fabricated by the Chinese. Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad calls the reports “zombie stories.”

LTO mum on supposed data leak

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has yet to validate the supposed leak of 45,008 customer credentials and 8,442 employee data as posted on social media. When asked, the agency remained mum and told the Manila Standard that “the information did not come from us.”

In a Facebook post of an information technology expert, allegations of a security breach of the agency’s Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) surfaced, citing a huge number of customer credentials and employee data could have possibly

leaked, and that the Department of Information and Communications Technology “will be on top of this situation.”

A Facebook post of Deep Web Konek (DWK), said to be an alliance of cyberthreat intelligence advocates with over 11,000 followers, also cited that it had monitored an alleged data breach within the LTO in the past week.

“Yesterday, a user reported a breach in LTO with a sample from one of their

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2024

MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

IN BRIEF

TUCP scores Laguesma on wage hike statements

THE Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) has criticized Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma’s empty assurances of wage hikes, saying that the department approved an average of only P15 wage increase per year from 1989 to 2024.

“Ten years. That is how long it would take for the current regional minimum wage determination, such as in NCR (National Capital Region) to give a P150 wage increase, considering that the minimum wage rose from P89 in 1989 to P610 in 2024, averaging only P15 increase per year,” the TUCP said in a statement.

The TUCP issued the statement a day before the House labor panel resumes its deliberations on the wage hike bills, which range from P150 to P750

“As workers grow restless with the end of contract jobs (Endo) every six months and starvation wages, the TUCP trusts that in the hearing of the House Committee on Labor and Employment chaired by Representative Fidel Nograles on Wednesday, May 8th, the House of Representatives as the House of the People will say to the working class of this nation: You demanded a raise. You deserve a raise. And we will give you the long-overdue and much-deserved P150 legislated wage hike,” the TUCP said.

”Instead of the Labor Secretary’s empty assurances of wage hikes that will actually only perpetuate ‘barya-baryang minimum,’ the Congress should stop dragging its foot and walk the talk: Taas sahod, isabatas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” it added. Vito Barcelo

DWSD partners with 903 service providers for AICS

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has partnered with some 903 service providers nationwide to aid individuals in crisis situations with their medical and funeral expenses, as well as maintenance medicines, an agency official said on Tuesday.

According to Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group Irene Dumlao, these service providers are composed of hospitals, medical centers, dialysis centers, diagnostic clinics, pharmaceutical companies, medical devices/ implants companies, and funeral parlors.

“Through our partnership with these service providers across the country, we are strengthening our capacity to address the various needs of our kababayan (countrymen) in times of crisis,” she said.

Dumlao said the DSWD signed a memorandum of agreement with these service providers to expand the services and benefits under the agency’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. Under the agreement, the service providers will recognize the duly approved and authenticated guarantee letter (GL) from the DSWD to cover the cost of hospitalizations, laboratory exams, medicines and assistive devices requested by the AICS clients.

PhilHealth hikes breast cancer benefit to P1.4m

THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has increased its “Z benefit” package for breast cancer patients to PHP1.4 million.

The state insurer said the enhanced Z benefit package now covers Stages 0 to 4 of breast cancer and even expanded the eligibility qualifications of members who can avail, even covering patients already undergoing treatment for the said illness.

“This significant leap in the Z Benefits Package for breast cancer is proof that PhilHealth is committed to delivering our mandate to provide responsive benefits to our Kababayans and we will continue implementing benefits that will improve the financial coverage under our thrust Pinalawak at Bagong Benepisyo para sa Mamamayang Filipino,” PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. said. He said it provides “a holistic approach” to breast cancer treatment because it covers diagnostic tests, breast cancer management up to surveillance or assessment for early signs of relapse after the surgery.

By Maricel V. Cruz

House bill sets next BSKE polls in ‘26

By Maricel V. Cruz

ALEGISLATOR from the Bicol region on Tuesday filed a bill setting the next barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) on October 26, 2026, and then every three years thereafter.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte said his House Bill 10344 complies with the provisions of both our Constitution and the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991 on the fixed three-year terms of these local officials.

Villafuerte pointed out that holding the next polls for barangay and SK officials on December 1, 2025 will mean a shorter term for them, which is “tantamount to the impairment of the expectations from the incumbents of our electorate’s overall exercise of their right to suffrage.”

The previous BSKE was held last

October 2023, which means that the incumbent officials will serve for two years only if the next poll is held in 2025, according to the lawmaker.

This shorter term for the would-be winners, once the BSKE is held next year as currently scheduled, will “actually contravene the three-year term of office for these elective officials as mandated by the 1987 Charter and the 1991 LGC,” Villafuerte explained.

The lawmaker crafted HB 10344 with his fellow Bicolano legislators

Camarines Sur fifth district Rep. Miguel Luis Villafuerte and Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Brian Raymund

Yamsuan.

The bill likewise “diminishes the obligations of the incumbent BSK officials to serve their constituents, and lessens their accountabilities in the exercise of the power vested in them by the people’s free choice” if they shall serve for only two years,” Villafuerte added.

In compliance with the constitutional mandate on three-year terms for BSKE winners, this bill complies with the election date provided in RA 11462 by moving the balloting to Oct. 26, 2026, from Dec. 1, 2025, according to his proposal.

By Vito Barcelo

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed two government infrastructure projects, a road widening and flood control projects in Batangas and Nueva Vizcaya worth a total of P142 million.

DPWH Region IV-A director Jovel Mendoza said the improvement of pavement serviceability on the 3.06-kilometer sections of the ManilaBatangas Road will ease traffic congestion, and enhance the overall travel experience for motorists and commuters traversing between the cities of

Sto. Tomas and Lipa.

“By applying a new layer of asphalt, we create a sturdier and smoother road surface capable of withstanding the daily rigors of traffic and adverse weather conditions,” Mendoza said.

The asphalt overlay project included a dedicated lane for bicycle users, further promoting sustainable and eco-friendly modes of transportation. The road improvement project worth P94 million was funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Meanwhile, agricultural communities will benefit from the constructed revetment structure, which is part of

the San Fernando-Macate-Abinganan Flood Control Project of the DPWH along Sta. Fe River in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya.

The flood control project features a 650-linear-meter rubble concrete wall with anchorage, embankment, mattresses, and gabions, which serves as a barrier against the overflow of the Sta. Fe River section in Barangay Macate.

DPWH Secretary Manual Bonoan said the newly constructed river wall structure, worth P48.2 million, will resolve the perennial threat of flooding in the area caused by the overflowing of Sta. Fe River.

Group proposes holistic strategy vs. online scams

A WHOLE-of-society strategy is needed to effectively address the persistent scam attacks victimizing individuals and businesses, consumer advocacy group CitizenWatch Philippines stressed amid the emergence of new malicious tactics targeting internet users.

In a statement, CitizenWatch Philippines lead convenor Orlando Oxales said that though there have been some gains in the government’s anti-cybercrime efforts, scammers continue to target millions of internet users with more cunning culturally customized tactics.

“We reiterate our call for all sectors to unite against online scammers. We must be informed, stay vigilant, and behave responsibly in the digital world as we are expected to be while offline in the real world,” Oxales said. He said tech-powered fraudsters are now employing creative strategies to fool their targets to engage and eventually steal sensitive information that will lead to financial scams or fraudulent transactions.

“Scammers are employing devious tactics that will deceive their target to engage imposter accounts that will lead to malicious links with malware, clone branded advertisements to trick users to purchase the fake products, and offering job opportunities that are too good to be true,” Oxales said.

The Philippines was ranked with the highest scam rate for online shoppers in the 2023 Asia Scam Report, a survey commissioned by the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) and Taiwan-based tech security company Gogolook.

asserted that the Marcos administration was taking care of Mindanao contrary to allegations by his critics. He said the Bagong Filipinas Fair has been launched in Bukidnon, Sultan Kudarat, Davao de Oro, and Agusan del Norte, and will be rolled out in Zamboanga and Tawi-Tawi on Thursday.

“So nakita po natin (We have seen) how the President actualizes the promise (of unity) that he mentioned during the campaign and how he will keep that promise up until the end of his term,” he said.

Adiong pointed out that the Chief Executive has been visiting all parts of the country, from the northernmost part of Luzon to the southern tip in Tawi-Tawi. The Mindanao lawmaker also disclosed that the Marcos administration would build “one of the longest bridges of the country, that would be connecting Lanao del Norte and Ozamis City to provide and make it easier for the

commuters and for transportation of goods, for the inland trading exchanges of goods in between and among provinces in Mindanao.”

He also said the President respects the peace and electoral processes in Mindanao.

“He will make sure that in 2025, we will respect the right of the people to elect their choice of leaders. In 2025 come BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) elections that will be the first election…So, I don’t think it’s fair to say that the President is actually neglecting Mindanao,” he stressed.

BAGONG Pilipinas Fair services are set to roll out anew in Mindanao this week in furtherance of the election campaign promises of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong. Adiong

OPINION

Perceptible partiality

THE Commission on Elections has declared as “ineligible” the joint venture of AMA Holdings Corp.-Dasan Network Solutions Inc.-Kevoting Inc. to participate in bidding for the P465-million online voting and counting system for use in overseas voting in the 2025 midterm elections.

But it allowed another bidder, SMS Global Technologies-Sequent Tech, Inc., to participate for being compliant with the requirements despite the insufficiency of its credentials.

Four bidders took part in the P465-M online voting and counting system: Indra Soluciones Technologias SLU; SMS Global Technologies- Sequent Tech, Inc.; Voatz Inc.-EPDT Inc.-EbiZolucion Inc.; and AMA-Dasan-Kevoting.

SMS Global Technologies-Sequent Tech, Inc. submitted the lowest bid of P112 million, while Voatz Inc.-PLDT-biZolucion submitted a bid of P435 million. Comelec disqualified Indra Soluciones Technologias, while it declared as ineligible the AMA-Dasan-Kevoting even before opening its bid.

The AMA-Dasan-Kevoting joint venture, through its authorized representative Angel Montes, filed two separate motions for reconsideration.

The first was on April 4 before the Comelec Special Bids and Awards Committee–Automated Election System (SBAC-AES) and the second on April 12 before the Comelec en banc.

In its April 12 second motion, the joint venture assailed the decision, saying its verdict to declare its bid as ineligible was “tainted with partiality.”

The Comelec denied the joint venture’s bid because it failed to pay the P2.3 million “protest fee,” which was unrefundable and represented 5 percent of the ceiling bid.

The Comelec denied its second motion without going into its merits, focusing on the payment of the protest fee. The joint venture plans to take legal action against the Comelec but it did not explain its legal options.

The SBAC-AES claimed it declared as ineligible the bid of AMA-Dasan-Kevoting because, citing its implementing rules and regulations on bidding, the joint venture failed to submit the credentials of the Korean Online Privacy Associations and Webmatch, the third party certifier in accordance with Comelec’s March 16, 2024 supplemental bid bulletin.

“It would be a great disservice to the Filipino people if Movant (AMA GroupDasan-Kevoting, which submitted a relatively competitive bid) is not declared eligible in this bidding,” the joint venture said in its second motion for reconsideration.

“The SBAC–AES failed to appreciate Movant’s contention as to the totality of the bidding documents it submitted as compliance with the bidding requirements,” it added.

“Movant in its motion for reconsideration had earlier mentioned to the SBACAES for 2025 NLE that the Certificate of General (Technology) Service Performance Record attached should be enough

to satisfy the requirement for third-party credentials for purposes of establishing that the system is operating properly, securely, and accurately,” it said.

Since no less than the National Election Commission of Korea, the Korean “counterpart” of Comelec, certified Kevoting’s online election system, it would have been enough to satisfy the requirements of the third party certifier, the joint venture said.

“Undoubtedly, based on the totality of bidding documents that Movant was able to submit earlier to the Committee, it would reveal that there was, at the very least, substantial compliance with the requirements of the instant bidding.

The SBAC also refused to look into what could be regarded as the ridiculously low bid of SMS Global Technologies-Sequent Technologies

“Essentially, compliance for one item could be properly supplied by the submission of the other documents to another item,” it said.

The SBAC also refused to look into what could be regarded as the ridiculously low bid of SMS Global TechnologiesSequent Technologies. Behind its low bid were deficiencies like its failure to submit 14001 ISO Certification (Environmental Management System) or equivalent certification.

Also, the joint venture does not have sufficient credentials their internet voting system was successfully used in an electoral exercise.

In its second motion for reconsideration, AMA-Dasan-Kevoting raised the question if SMSGT-Sequent has submitted any written certification from an election authority that it was indeed successful in the previous electoral exercise it handled.

It mentioned one of its executives admitted in its post-bid evaluation the only electoral exercise it did was the referendum in Madrid that involved 1.2 million voters.

It said: “SMSGT-Sequent should not be allowed to participate in the first place for failure to prove that ultimately their a) internet/online voting system has a proven track record of being successfully implemented in at least one election year here or abroad; and b) the proposed internet voting system has been successfully used in a prior electoral exercise.”

The SBAC-AES is composed of: Allen Francis Abaya, chair; John Laudiangco, vice chair; Divina Blas-Perez, Jovencio Balanquit; and Abigail Claire Lacuna, members.

The Technical Working Group is headed by John Gerald dela Cruz. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

A newsman’s standpoint: When justice is served

By Ramon L. Tomeldan

ALL my life I have been (and will always be) a journalist. Sometimes struggling, but most of the time gratified and grateful that I always manage to make ends meet, keep body and soul together. From a newsman’s perspective, there are more to things mundane than the eye meets. One decisive action strikes me as fascinating if not outrightly superb. And it’s affirming and reassuring to know that justice has been served well. A national director of a government bureau, a key factor in the country’s food security, has been made accountable not only for a simple misdemeanor, but for a case of graft in a large-scale fashion.

I refer to the decision of the Office of the Ombudsman which recently ordered the dismissal of Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources National Director Demosthenes R. Escoto for an anomalous act: awarding a P2-billion contract for the vessel monitoring system project in

2018, defying several court orders.

The multi-billion-peso project – billed the Integrated Marine Environment Monitoring System Project Phase 1 (or the PHILO Project) – was necessary to implementing a vessel monitoring system for fishing vessels.

This included the procurement of VMS transmitters and transceivers. Originally, the project was supposed to cost P1.6-billion as approved in 2017. It was meant to be a clean and tidy project with an above-board financing package to be bankrolled by the French government.

However, the top executive of BFAR, by sleight of hand maneuver only he and his subordinates orchestrated, made the cost to balloon to P 2.09 billion in 2018, using local government funding.

The equipment, originally planned as French-made, became a British-manufactured product.

There was something obviously wrong.

Based on well-meaning complaints by well-intentioned sectors, a temporary re-

Restless reading the radar screen

THE annual Balikatan exercises of the Philippines and the United States end today – officially on Friday -- with both sides hopeful they have strengthened their bilateral interoperablity, trust and cooperation.

More than 16,000 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and US military trained together this year, with contingents from the Australian Defense Force and, for the first time in Balikatan history, the French Navy, as participants.

Several of the drills were set in islands and provinces facing Taiwan and the South China Sea, including Ilocos Norte up north, about 408 km from Taiwan’s southernmost point.

The exercises have irked China, which has warned of destabilization when countries outside the region “flex muscles and stoke confrontation” – a flawed logic, from where we are, since the rule of law does not stop when one uses might unnecessarily.

The exercises came at a time of escalating tension between China and the Philippines in the latter’s exclusive economic zone, reason China must have had its eyes glued on the radar screen for every blip during the 19-day combat drills.

The exercises were meant to improve how the forces operate alongside each other and were not directed against a specific adversary

Last week, Manila accused Beijing of using water cannons against Philippine vessels around the disputed Scarborough Shoal, which damaged naval vessels and injured people onboard. Earlier on, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said the Philippines would not retaliate in kind, saying he did not want to raise tensions. But there is truth in what US Marines Lt. Gen. Michael Cederholm, commander of joint task force Balika-

IN THE tangled thicket of Philippine legislative maneuvers, where the currents of economic policy and social welfare converge, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez emerges as a steadfast harbinger of optimism, promising a tangible reduction in the price of rice for the Filipino masses.

His recent proclamation, veiled in the urgency of an impending deadline, echoes across the archipelago, stirring both anticipation and skepticism.

Romualdez’s gambit, unveiled amidst the solemn corridors of the Batasang Pambansa complex, offers a tantalizing prospect: a potential drop of P10 to P15 in the cost of rice, a lifeline for impoverished households struggling to put food on the table.

The stage is set for a narrative of reform, of amendments to the rice tariffication law (Republic Act 11203), envisioned to usher in an era of accessible sustenance for all.

But beneath the surface of this grand design lies a tapestry of complexities, intricately woven by the hands of policymakers and stakeholders alike.

The rice tariffication law, heralded as a panacea for the agricultural sector, has engendered a contentious legacy.

While it has bestowed much-needed relief upon the shoulders of rice farmers through financial assistance, its embrace of importation has precipitated a flood of foreign grains, inundating local markets and precipitating a precarious imbalance.

Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo, his voice a clarion call amidst the political din, articulates the conundrum with clarity.

The very essence of the National Food Authority, once a bastion of affordability

straining order was issued. Then a permanent injunction was subsequently ordered by a competent court.

—“—

The Ombudsman’s decision serves as a reminder that vigilance is crucial to safeguarding public funds

Not only that. In various times, BFAR was cited in contempt for multiple violations in connection with the project. The several court orders despite, the BFAR leadership pushed through with the flawed project. The BFAR national director was ordered dismissed, and it came with wideranging penalties – cancellation of civil

tan, told reporters the exercises were meant to improve how the forces operate alongside each other and were not directed against a specific adversary.

“We don’t do this for any third party. We don’t do this for messaging. We do this to create interoperability,” Cederholm said, without mentioning China.

In the most prominent annual military exercises between the Philippines and the United States, participants executed a complex missions across domains, including maritime security, sensing and targeting, air and missile defense, dynamic missile strikes, cyber defense, and information operations.

The Philippine Navy, US Navy, and the French Navy also conducted a Multilateral Maritime Exercise in the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

The main exercises will culminate with a “maritime strike” today, in which the combined forces of the Philippines and the United States will sink a decommissioned Philippine navy ship.

Other exercises have included simulations of retaking occupied islands and a multilateral sail with France and Australia in the South China Sea, inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

Romualdez’s bid for cheaper rice

for the needy, now finds itself shackled by legislative constraints, relegated to the role of a mere custodian of reserves.

The irony is stark: a law crafted to empower has unwittingly enfeebled, leaving in its wake a populace grappling with the burden of exorbitant prices.

As Romualdez orchestrates the symphony of reform, summoning the forces of the House committee on agriculture and food to deliberate upon a suite of proposed amendments, the stakes could not be higher.

—“—

The fate of millions hangs in the balance, suspended between the promise of a brighter tomorrow and the specter of

House Bill 212, the brainchild of Nueva Ecija 1st District Rep. Mikaela Angela Suansing, seeks to liberate rice imports from the fetters of quantitative restriction, while HB 404, championed by Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, advocates the repeal of the entire rice tariffication law—a radical proposition that threatens to upend the status quo.

Amidst the legislative labyrinth, Romualdez’s vision crystallizes: to restore the agency of the NFA, to reclaim its erstwhile mantle as a purveyor of affordable sustenance.

Yet, the path to redemption is fraught with obstacles, with dissenting voices

service eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and perpetual disqualification from holding public office. In swift response to the dismissal order, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. appointed career official Isidro Velayo Jr. BFAR officer-incharge. The decision of the Ombudsman has delivered a powerful message to public servants: Your days of impunity are over. You cannot simply ignore the processes of prosecution and justice. More to the point, you cannot get away with the abuse and misuse of taxpayers’ money. The Ombudsman’s commendable act was made possible by the thorough investigation by Graft Investigation and Prosecution Officer I Cezar M. Tirol II, and the subsequent approval by Ombudsman Samuel R. Martires. Their resolute acts demonstrate the seriousness with which corruption cases are being pursued.

clamoring for divergent paths forward.

Can Romualdez navigate this treacherous terrain, steering the ship of state towards the promised shores of economic equity?

The specter of history looms large, casting a shadow of doubt upon the efficacy of legislative endeavors.

The rice tariffication law, conceived in the crucible of political exigency, stands as a testament to the perils of hasty decision-making.

Critics, emboldened by the failures of the past, question the feasibility of Romualdez’s aspirations, citing the unfulfilled promises of yesteryears.

And yet, amidst the cacophony of skepticism, a glimmer of optimism persists.

Romualdez’s impassioned plea for unity, his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Filipino people, resonates deeply within the hearts of the nation. As the wheels of legislative machinery grind inexorably onwards, propelled by the collective will of the people, the promise of affordable rice beckons on the horizon, a steadfast lighthouse piercing through the encroaching darkness with rays of hope.

In the crucible of uncertainty, Romualdez stands as a symbol of resilience, his gaze fixed unwaveringly upon the horizon. The road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, beset by the vagaries of political intrigue and bureaucratic inertia, but the flame of progress burns bright within the chambers of the Batasang Pambansa. As the nation awaits with bated breath, the fate of millions hangs in the balance, suspended between the promise of a brighter tomorrow and the specter of disillusionment.

The Ombudsman’s 22-page decision found Escoto guilty of grave misconduct and should therefore be held accountable. The Ombudsman’s decision also serves as a reminder that vigilance is crucial to safeguarding public funds. In a real sense, the Ombudsman’s act has strengthened our justice system. And I wish to see more judicial decisions that serve the ends of justice, that make erring officials accountable, giving value to the painstaking efforts of our investigators. In a larger sense, this simple act has strengthened the foundations of democracy in this country. It is fitting therefore to use a quote from Reinhold Niebuhr, the American Reformed theologian, ethicist, and political commentator, who said “Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.”

(The author was Managing Editor of Manila Standard for 15 years until 2021)

Israel sends tanks into Rafah in Gaza

RAFAH, Palestinian Territories – Israel sent tanks into Rafah in wartorn Gaza’s far south and took control

of the border crossing with Egypt on Tuesday, as its war with Hamas entered an eighth month.

The military’s thrust into the eastern sector of the overcrowded city came a day after Israel warned Palestinians in the area to evacuate ahead of a long-threatened ground operation.

Overnight, heavy bombardments

rocked Rafah, an AFP correspondent reported. The Kuwaiti hospital said 23 people were killed and the Najjar hospital said another four people were killed.

The latest violence comes after four Israeli soldiers were killed Sun-

Army footage showed tanks flying the Israeli flag taking “operational control” of the Palestinian side of the border crossing, it said, in a deployment that had a “very limited scope against very specific targets.”

day in a rocket attack on the Kerem Shalom crossing that was claimed by the armed wing of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades said they fired at Israeli troops at the crossing again on Tuesday.

The war in the Gaza Strip was sparked by Hamas’s unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli of-

r1c1qzn306@judiciary.gov.ph 09760960624/8660-1763

FOR RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN DIVORCE ARNOLD L. ANSALDO, Petitioner, - versus- SPEC. PROC. CASE No. R-QZN-23-10719

CECILE ANNE C. DUYONGCO, CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, PHILIPPINE STATISTICS OFFICE, and the REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES, represented by the OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL and ALL PERSONS/ENTITIES WHO/WHICH MA Y BE AFFECTED THEREBY, Respondents.

x--------------------------------------------------------x

ORDER

This is a petition filed by Arnold L. Ansaldo, through counsel, praying for the recognition of his divorce from respondent Cecile Anne C. Duyongco obtained in California, USA.

Petitioner alleges that he was married to respondent Cecile Anne C. Duyongco on February 1, 2013 in Island Palms Hotel, San Diego, California, USA. Their marriage was thereafter reported before the Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles, California which was eventually forwarded to the Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly National Statistics Office) through the Department of Foreign Affairs, Manila. They thereafter lived together as husband and wife for seven (7) months, which was marred by constant fights that became physical at times. They exerted efforts to save the marriage through counselling, but to no avail. Petitioner went home to the Philippines sometime in September 2013. After their short-lived cohabitation as husband and wife, petitioner filed for the dissolution of their marriage before the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego, USA. The same was granted on November 7,2016. Petitioner now prays that the divorce decree be legally recognized in the Philippines.

WHEREFORE, finding the petition to be sufficient in form. And substance, let this case be set for hearing on May 8, 2024, at 1:30 in the afternoon before this Court located at Room 703, 7th Floor, Hall of Justice, Diliman, Quezon City, at which place and on which date and time, any person who has objections to the petition may appear and file his opposition thereto.

Let a copy of this Order be published, at the expense of the petitioner, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines.

Likewise, at the expense of the petitioner, let a copy of the Petition with

Australian PM calls China conduct ‘unacceptable’

SYDNEY – Australia chastised China on Tuesday over its “unacceptable” behavior in international airspace, accusing a Chinese warplane of firing flares in the path of one of its navy helicopters.

A Chinese fighter jet “intercepted” the Seahawk helicopter as it flew a UN sanctions surveillance mission above the Yellow Sea on May 4, Australian defense officials said.

The jet detonated flares across the helicopter’s flight path, officials added, in an “unsafe maneuver” that put the aircraft and its crew at risk.

“We have made very strong representations at every level to China about this incident,” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters on Tuesday.

“I can’t speak to the motivation of what’s occurred here. I can say, though, that it’s unprofessional and unacceptable.”

The Australian helicopter had been dispatched from the HMAS Hobart destroyer, which was sailing through the region as part of United Nations efforts to target North Korean smugglers.

“Australian Defense Force personnel were going about their job in international waters and international skies,” Albanese said.

“[They] should not be at risk while they’re doing that.”

Beijing responded later Tuesday, alleging that “Australian warships and aircraft deliberately approached China’s airspace to cause trouble and provoke”.

“With the aim of issuing a warning, the Chinese military took necessary measures at the scene. Relevant operations were lawful, professional and safe,” foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said.

“China has lodged solemn representations against Australia’s risky practices and urges Australia to immediately stop provoking and hyping up in order to avoid misjudgments,” he added.

The mid-air incident is the latest in a string of episodes between China and its rivals in the increasingly contested airspace and shipping lanes of Asia.

A Chinese destroyer was last year accused of bombarding submerged Australian navy divers with sonar pulses in waters off Japan, causing minor injuries.

The divers had been sailing on an Australian navy frigate -- the HMAS Toowoomba -- tasked with supporting sanctions enforcement efforts in Japan’s exclusive economic zone. AFP

ficial figures. Vowing to destroy Hamas, Israel launched a retaliatory offensive that has killed at least 34,789 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry. Egypt, which borders Rafah and has a peace treaty with Israel, and Qatar, a US ally that is also home to Hamas leaders, have taken the lead in the ceasefire negotiations. AFP

IN BRIEF

South Korea records hottest April in 50 years

winds flowing into our country along the edge of the high pressure”, KMA said in a statement. Asia is warming faster than the global average, according to the UN’s World Me-

DIEN BIEN PHU, Vietnam – A crowd of more than 10,000 people including war veterans and dignitaries gathered Tuesday in Vietnam’s Dien Bien Phu to mark the 70th anniversary of the battle that ultimately brought an end to the French empire in Indochina. Outside the city stadium where official commemorations were held, throngs of people -- many wearing traditional Vietnamese dress -- lined the streets to watch a huge military parade. They cheered on soldiers marching with Vietnamese flags.

Vietnam invited for the first time a government minister from the former colonial power to attend the celebrations, which featured 21 rounds of fireworks and a display by 11 helicopters carrying the Communist Party and national flags. French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh were among those at the event that drew huge attention from tourists and residents of northwestern Dien Bien province, which borders Laos.

As celebrations began in Dien Bien Phu city’s stadium, 90-year-old veteran Pham Duc Cu spoke on behalf of his fallen comrades.

“It moves me to remember the people who died to achieve this earth-shaking victory,” he said.

“The war has passed. We are so proud to have contributed to making a heroic and beautiful Dien Bien.”

In his opening speech, Prime Minister Chinh said the battle of Dien Bien Phu represented a “victory for justice”, marking the collapse of colonialism. AFP

US soldier detained in custody in Russia

MOSCOW – Russia on Tuesday remanded a US soldier in custody until July in the far eastern city of Vladivostok after he was detained on suspicion of theft.

The US Army said the soldier, identified by a court in Vladivostok as Gordon Black, had been detained on criminal charges. It withheld details, citing the sensitivity of the case.

The detention of Black adds to the number of US citizens held in Russia at a time of tensions with Washington over Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

Primorye regional court spokeswoman Elena Oleneva said Black was detained on May 2 and would be held in pre-trial detention until July 2 for theft, staterun Ria Novosti news agency reported.

Vladivostok city police said they had arrested a 34-year-old foreigner and opened a criminal case over theft causing significant harm to the victim, punishable by up to five years in prison.

The suspect is being held in a pre-trial detention centre in the city, they said.

Police said the man had begun a relationship with a Russian woman while she was working in South Korea. They kept in touch online and he came to visit her

on April 10.

The couple had a “conflict” and the man left. Afterwards, the woman found money was missing and called police, who tracked down the man in a hotel, as he was preparing to fly out to the United States.

Russian newspaper Izvestia reported earlier, citing a source, that the man had stolen 200,000 rubles ($2,200) and beaten the woman up.

A Russian foreign ministry representative in Vladivostok told TASS state news agency that the case was not linked to politics.

“This case is not related to politics or espionage. As far as we understand this is a purely domestic crime

“Therefore the foreign ministry branch in Vladivostok is not following the US citizen’s fate closely.”

RIA Novosti quoted US Army spokeswoman Cynthia Smith as saying the man’s family had been informed and he was receiving consular support. Citing US officials, NBC News reported that the soldier

YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

TANKS ROLL IN. This handout picture released by the Israeli army shows the 401st Brigade’s combat team tanks entering the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday. The Israeli army said it took “operational control” of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing on and troops were scanning the area. AFP

Vinny Marcos co-chairs world volley tilt organizing committee

THE cornerstones for the country’s solo hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025 were solidly nailed on Monday in a strategic meeting at the BGC graced by youthful Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, who will cochair the Local Organizing Committee (LOC).

With Marcos as co-chair of the LOC are Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frascom, with Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) head Ramon “Tats” Suzara as president.

“I’m really confident and I believe everybody know’s what he or she’s doing,”

Rising stars battle for glory in Olivarez tilt

MORE than 300 participants across nine age categories prepare to showcase their prowess and finesse in the Dr. Pablo Olivarez Sr. National Junior Tennis Championships, which kick off Thursday (May 9) in Sucat, Parañaque. With a record number of contenders vying for top honors and ranking points, the organizing Palawan Pawnshop Palawan Express Pera Padala has arranged for matches to take place at both the Olivarez Sports Center and the Parañaque courts during the five-day Group 2 tournament presented by Dunlop.

Jana Diaz, the standout performer with dual victories in the recent PPSPEPP event, the San Jose SALT tournament in Valenzuela City, leads the charge in the girls’ 16- and 18-andunder singles categories. While she eyes a two-title repeat, the Bacoor, Cavite find remains mindful of the stiff competition she faces.

Among the challengers in the 16-and-U division Sandra Bautista, Joy Ansay, Cadee Dagoon, Shiloh Cruz, Ave Maria Policarpio, Erynne Ong and Jasmine Sardona. Notably, Bautista, Cruz and Ansay will also contend in the premier division alongside Diaz.

In the boys’ class, Ariel Cabaral secures the top seed in the 18-andU category, where he will clash with formidable opponents such as Al Licayan, Ivan Manila, Antonio Ng, Raphael Paglalunan, Enrico Uy, Phil Amora and Nathan Cansana.

Gavin Kraut, meanwhile, claims the top spot in the 16-and-U class of the tournament, which is part of the nationwide circuit under the Palawan Pawnshop National Championships program headed by president/CEO Bobby Castro, facing tough competition from Licayan, Ng, Julio Naredo, Brendan Morales, Kenji Kue, Paglalunan and San Jose SALT winner Troan Vytiaco. The overwhelming participation is evident as all but one of the nine categories boast full-packed 32-player draws, underscoring the enthusiasm of young talents from the host city and neighboring towns and municipalities. For details, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

said the 25-year-old Marcos, who’s be coheading an LOC that’s best described as an organization that’s “been there, done that and doing this” with aplomb. The LOC consists of 17 Functional Areas headed and manned by the same people who’re responsible for the successful hosting of the Philippine 2019

Southeast Asian Games and co-hosting of the FIBA 2023 World Cup.

The members of the LOC Board includes Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard Bachmann and MVP Group of Companies head Manuel V. Pangilinan.

“With Vince [Marcos] support complimenting the commitment of Senator Cayetano and Secretary Frasco, the Philippines is again guaranteed to be on the world sporting map this time in volleyball,” Suzara told the strategic meeting also attended by representatives from the Philippine Sports Commission.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, also PNVF’s Chairman Emeritus, highlighted the value of having the young Marcos at the helm of the country’s FIVB 2025 hosting.

“It’s your [the next generation] turn. We really like having younger people in this committee because it’s about passing [the baton of leadership],” Cayetano told Marcos.

First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos has earlier vowed her full support to the championship featuring the world’s top 32 volleyball countries—including the Philippines—from September 12 to 28 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Mapua stays in contention for semis slot

MAPUA overcame a feisty San Beda, 25-21, 26-24, 22-25, 25-13, on Tuesday to stay in semifinal contention in NCAA Season 99 women’s volleyball at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Newbie Raissa Ricablanca and the battle-scarred Nicole Ong dealt the mightiest of blows as they fired 22 and 17 points, respectively, to power the Lady Cardinals to a 6-3 record.

The much-needed result put Mapua momentarily tied for No. 3 with Lyceum of the Philippines U, last year’s losing finalist, behind College of St. Benilde (9-0) and Letran (6-2).

The three-peat-seeking Lady Blazers have swept their way to the best-of-three finals with nine wins while the Lady Knights and the Lady Pirates have already booked outright berths to the stepladder semis.

Had Mapua won via straight sets, it would have also sealed it an automatic ticket to the playoff phase.

Instead, the Lady Cardinals await their fate as they’re battling for the fourth and last semis spot with the Arellano U Lady Chiefs (5-3), who were tackling the Jose Rizal University Lady Bombers at press time. If AU wins via straight sets, it would claim the last spot while if it lost just one set, that slot would go to Mapua. The Lady Red Spikers closed out their campaign with a 3-6 slate.

Taipei camp planned for Olympic-bound PH lifters

THE Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) has given up on the plan to send its Olympic qualifiers to China for the last phase of training before they head to Paris.

Instead, SWP president Monico Puentevella is eyeing Taipei as the final stop of training for Vanessa Sarno, Elreen Ando and John Ceniza, who are all assured of Paris berths. A fourth weightlifter. Rosegie Ramos, is still trying to qualify.

“We intended to train them in China. Sinubukan ko for more than a year and I negotiated with the Chinese Embassy but they have been very lukewarm,” said Puentevella in Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

“So now kahit one month lang sana mag-training sila sa Taipei. Sana tanggapin sila sa Taipei,” added Puentevella during the forum presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Smart/PLDT, MILO, and the 24/7 sports app in the country, ArenaPlus.

The Philippines won its first Olympic gold in Tokyo in 2021 courtesy of weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, who spent time in China to train under a Chinese coach leading to the Tokyo Games.

Puentevella said Diaz winning the 55kg gold in Tokyo may have had an effect in the former’s recent request for the Filipino weightlifters to train in China. Curiously, Diaz’ former coach, Chinese Gao Kaiwen, is now based in Taipei.

“I’m not surprised,” said Puentevella, who was joined in the forum by Sarno, 20, Ando, 25, and Ceniza, 26. Sarno will vie in the women’s 71kg, Ando in the women’s 59kg, and Ceniza in the men’s 61kg. Among the three, only Ando is a two-time Olympian after competing in Tokyo.

“Masaya ako dahil lahat ng sacrifices namin nagbunga po lahat,” said Sarno, who has set high goals for her debut stint in the Olympics.

“Siyempre po gold medal,” she said. “Gusto ko po baguhin ‘yun mentality na ang first time mo sa Olympics is for exposure lang.”

A RIVALRY tipped to create a lasting impact in men’s volleyball takes the spotlight today (Wednesday) as defending champion Cignal slugs it out with Criss Cross in Game 1 of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Finals at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum. The HD Spikers drew first blood in their initial matchup, claiming a thrilling, comefrom-behind five-set win in the eliminations, but the King Crunchers pulled off a massive reversal in the semifinals to tie their early head-to-head duel.

With so much at stake in their 6 p.m. showdown, expect Cignal and Criss Cross to pour it all out in what promises to be an enthralling duel of power, athleticism and skill for the confidence and momentum in their the best-of-three championship series. Featuring two of the best players in the country today in Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo, anticipation is high as fans brace themselves for a clash for volley supremacy expected to go down-to-the-wire.

Bagunas, who dropped a conference-high 38 points in the five-set loss to the King Crunchers, will be once again tasked to lead the charge for the HD Spikers as they try to slow down Espejo, the man behind Criss Cross’ comeback from a 0-2 hole the last time out.

Undeterred by their defeat, which halted their win streak to 10, Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor vowed to come out of the setback stronger and wiser.

“We are facing the championship series with a fresh mindset. Back to square one kami with all the learnings we got from our previous loss against them in the semifinals,” said the three-time Spikers’ Turf champion tactician.

“We will make sure to play our hearts out sa finals. May mga game adjustments din kami na gagawin kaya talagang pinaghahandaan namin lahat,” added Clamor, who noted that starting setter EJ Casana and key reserve Mark Calado are back in full status after suffering injuries midway through the conference.

Presidential son William Vincent Araneta Marcos and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano (fourth and fth from left) and Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara (fourth from left) lead a jovial launch of the Local Organizing Committee for the country’s solo hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025.

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann joins SWP President Monico Puentevella and Paris Olympic-bound weightlifters John Ceniza, Elreen Ando, and Vanessa Sarno.

Cignal’s Bryan Bagunas scores with a smash.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Filipinas U17 team stuns host Indonesia in Asian Cup

By Peter Atencio

FILIPINO-AMERICAN standouts

Alexa Pino and Natalie Collins scored two goals each for the Filipinas Under-17 team as they led in the swamping of host Indonesia, 6-1, Monday evening at the start of the 2024 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup.

Pino, playing out of St. Joseph High School in Trumbull, Connectticutt, struck in the sixth and 35th minutes in the first half of their encounter at the Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium in Bali, Indonesia. Meanwhile, the 16-year-old Collins, an attacker from West Springfield Massachusetts, sank her goals in the second half in the 54th and 62nd minutes.

“I think our team as a whole, did a great job performing. They executed the plan that we worked on,” said Pino.

The Filipinas moved to a share of the Group A lead with North Korea, which routed South Korea, 7-0, over at the Bali United Training Center.

After Pino struck the first goal, the Indonesians tied the count when Claudia Alexandra Scheunemann made her move to score in the 12th minute.

The Filipinas broke the deadlock off Jael-Marie Guy and Ariana Markey, who sent in goals in the 22nd and 29th minutes, respectively, for a 3-1 edge.

Owning a 4-1 lead allowed the Filipinas to pick up the momentum in the second half.

The Philippines, coached by Sinisa Cohadzic, will face North Korea at 4 p.m. on Thursday at the Bali United Training Center.

A second straight win by the young Filipinas will put them in contention for a slot in the knockout stage and a chance to get a slot in the U17 Women’s World Cup right in their debut appearance in the tournament.

Guermali, Salano clash for 1st gold in

NATIONAL team member Rich-

ard Salano will test his will and endurance against two Fil-Americans at the start of the ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships 2024 today at the Philsports track oval in Pasig.

The early morning race will see Salano taking on national record holder Yacine Guermali and newcomer AJ Ricketts in the opening event of the men’s 5000-meter run.

In preparing for the national meet, Salano skipped the men’s 42-km of the recent MILO Marathon’s Manila leg and won the title when he joined the shorter 21-km event. And he now looks forward to his coming showdown with Guermali, who owns the national marks in the men’s 1500-meter and 5000-meter events since 2021.

“Ayos ito. Mas maganda (race) dahil mahahatak ko ang time ko,” said Salano in an interview with the Manila Standard. Four gold medals will be up grabs in the early morning activities, which includes the women’s open discus throw, the girls’ under-18 shotput and the men’s open long jump.

For Guermali, this will be his chance to move up in the world rankings, and give him opportunities for Olympic qualification in the future, with the Philippine Athletic Track and Field Association offering IAAF points in the annual trackfest.

Early this year, Guermali set a third national mark during the first time that he raced in the indoor event of the men’s 1000-meter run.

“It was a good effort. It helped in my training and build up for my main events,” said Guermali, the 24-year-old Fil-Morrocan student athlete who just graduated from Gonzaga University.

Tuneup matches in Turkey, Poland await Gilas Pilipinas

GILAS Pilipinas has drawn up a tight, busy schedule for the coming weeks as it gears up for the tough FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Latvia in July.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Erika Dy told the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday the Nationals will first convene on June 22 at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna before heading to Turkey and Poland for tune-up games with their counterparts.

Then, it’s on to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament set July 2 to 7 in Latvia where coach Tim

Cone will try to steer the reigning Asian Games champions to the quadrennial Games, a program dubbed “Mission: Paris.”

“We’re grouped with the host team Latvia and Georgia, both powerhouses, and we’re really looking

forward to competing against them,” Dy said during the forum presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Smart/PLDT, MILO, and the 24/7 sports app in the country ArenaPlus.

From Latvia, ‘whether we make it (to Paris) or not,’ the Nationals will prepare for the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers at the MOA Arena to face New Zealand and Hong Kong in November.

The Nationals will reconvene six days before the New Zealand game on Nov. 21.

“Premise ni coach Tim, we have the same roster every time. Kapag pinagsama-sama mo ‘yung short training periods, maga-accumulate sila,” said Dy.

“The program is working. He (Cone) has secured the best talents that we have. In the past, hirap na

hirap tayo. Because of this shorter training periods, mas madali magcommit and because high-level players ang mga ito, mas madali sila magpickup,¨added Dy.

The Gilas women’s team meanwhile, is looking forward to the Jones Cup in June and the FIBA Women’s World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournament in August in Rwanda.

During the forum, the SBP official also bared that things are running well regarding the naturalization process for Bennie Boatwright, who was presented before the senators during a consultative meeting the other day.

The SBP is also in the process of acquiring naturalization papers for 6-foot-4 Nigerian Favour Onah, now playing for UP in the UAAP, for the Gilas women’s team of coach Pat Aquino.

FEU wants to be 1st no. 4 team to make finals

FAR Eastern University hopes to make history as the first No. 4 team in the Final Four era to reach the Finals against top-ranked National University Wednesday in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Coach Manolo Refugia, who took over the squad this year, is upbeat on the 29-time champions, as the Lady Tamaraws lock horns with the Lady Bulldogs for one final time this season at 4 p.m.

“Kung sino man ang may gusto, kung sino man ang mataas ang pinaghuhugutan, kung sino talaga ang willing na manalo,” Refugia said on the Final Four decider. University of Santo Tomas, FEU’s fabled rival in the sport, advanced to the best-of-three Finals after outlasting De La Salle in five sets last Saturday.

The Lady Tamaraws, whose last title came in the 2007-08 season, last played in the championship round in 2018 when it lost to the Lady Spikers in two matches.

FEU hopes to pull it off this time, as in 2019, the Morayta-based squad, as the No. 4 team, dragged eventual champion Ateneo to a deciding Final Four match only to fall short of completing a reversal.

NU, which wanted so badly to advance to the title round, squandered its first chance.

The Lady Tamaraws turned to their usual reliables Chenie Tagaod and Tin Ubaldo, as well as big games from Mitzi Panan-

gin and libero Anne Monares to upend the Lady Bulldogs, 25-23, 25-17, 25-23.

FEU was able to extend its season despite Gerzel Petallo’s twopoint outing and Congo’s Faida Bakanke having trouble in getting her game going after a strong start.

Former MVP Bella Belen was at her usual best on both ends of the floor, as NU hopes that Alyssa Solomon will step up after the veteran opposite spiker struggled last Saturday.

Belen remains positive that the Lady Bulldogs will figure out what the Lady Tamaraws have done right that sent the Final Four to a do-or-die and extend their redemption tour.

“I think kailangan naming magsipag pa,” said Belen. “Hangga’t yung mindset namin, mentally and physically nandoon, hindi kami mahihirapan.”

ECOOIL-La Salle clobbered undermanned Centro Escolar University, 98-72, in Game 1 of their titular series and moved on the verge of wrapping up their third straight PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup championship on Monday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. The Green Archers took advantage of the absence of CEU big man Abdul-Wahab Olusesi by racing to a 23-9 in the first quarter to set the tone of the one-sided matchup. Olusesi sat out the game with a sprained knee.

EcoOil-La Salle can get the job done in Game 2 on Thursday and become the second winningest team in the PBA D League. NLEX holds the record for most championship with six championships, including four consecutive titles from 2011 to 2013.

“CEU was riding on a lot of momentum. Beating San Beda is such a huge achievement for their program so I told the players that CEU will be coming out with a lot of confidence with or without Olusesi,” said La Salle assistant coach Gian Nazaro, who is calling the shots in the tournament.

“We have to be prepared against them and I think from the start, ‘yun ang nagawa namin.” Henry Agunanne and Jonnel Policarpio showed the way for the Green Archers with 17 points apiece. JC Macalalag added 13 and three steals while Raven Cortez and EJ Gollena had 10 each. Game 1 was practically a mismatch with La Salle pulling away early, 54-28, at halftime. They led by as

SBP Executive Director Erika Dy

FEU coach Manolo Refugia

La Salle’s Henry Agunanne collars the rebound.

Game Thursday (Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig) 7:30 p.m. – EcoOil-La Salle vs CEU

The Filipinas congratulate Alexa Pino after her goal in the 2024 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup in Bali.

RECLAMATION PLAN. Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA)

NEDA expects faster rollout of major infrastructure projects

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said it expects faster rollout of major infrastructure projects following the signing of an executive order by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. EO No. 59, signed by the President Marcos on April 30, aims to expedite the implementation of the country’s infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs).

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the EO would support the goals of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 by expanding and upgrading the country’s infrastructure sector as part of the government’s efforts towards social and economic

transformation.

“By streamlining the processing of IFPs, we are making it easier for implementing agencies and more attractive for our partners in the private sector to execute transformative infrastructure projects that would spur job creation for our people and enable us to sustain our economy’s rapid expansion,” he said. EO 59 introduces several critical changes, simplifying the requirements for the NEDA Board-approved list of IFPs. It also directs national government agencies (NGAs) and local government units (LGUs) to review their citizen’s charters, aiming to eliminate redundant and cumbersome procedures.

Gov’t returns to global bond market to fund budget deficit

THE government is again tapping the global bond market, seeking at least $500 million to help finance its budget deficit.

The exact size of the benchmarksize offering is still being determined, but reports indicate the government is considering bonds with 10- and 25year maturities.

The Department of Finance earlier

Ex-DOE

announced plans to issue overseas bonds in the first half of 2024 to cover the budget shortfall. The strategy involves obtaining 75 percent of borrowings domestically and the remaining 25 percent from international sources.

The Philippines ventured into overseas financing last year. They raised $1 billion through their first-ever sukuk (Islamic bond) issuance in November 2023 and $1.26 billion from onshore U.S. dollar-denominated retail bonds in October.

Credit rating agencies assigned

investment-grade ratings to the proposed bond offering. S&P Global Ratings gave a ‘BBB+’ rating, while Fitch Ratings assigned a ‘BBB rating’. These ratings reflect the Philippines’ overall creditworthiness.

S&P said the bonds represent direct, general, unconditional, unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of the Philippines (BBB+/ Stable/A-2). They rank equally with the sovereign’s other unsecured and unsubordinated debt obligations.

“The rating is in line with Philippines’ ‘BBB’ Long-Term Foreign-

chief defends coal moratorium despite power supply alerts

By Alena Mae S. Flores

FORMER Energy Secretary Alfonso

Cusi on Tuesday described the Department of Energy’s coal moratorium implemented in 2020 as a well-considered policy move despite criticisms.

Cusi said in a statement the recent grid alerts should not be hastily attributed to the coal moratorium without solid evidence.

“It’s crucial to understand that while the moratorium applied to new greenfield coal-fired power projects, existing brownfield and expansion

initiatives, including those with secured financial backing, remained unaffected,” Cusi said.

Cusi said any delays or setbacks in power projects could not be directly linked to the moratorium. The moratorium was implemented for a more agile and adaptable power generation landscape, he said.

“At the time of its implementation, the grid boasted sufficient baseload capacities but required greater investments in mid-merit and flexible power generation capabilities,” he said.

Cusi said the moratorium aimed

to align with the global momentum towards renewable energy transition while upholding the reliability and stability of the grid.

He also said encouraging inflexible power generation such as coal contradicts this strategic shift.

“Central to the moratorium’s objectives was the enhancement of grid reliability by augmenting the power system’s capacity to withstand disruptions while optimizing overall grid operations. It sought to bolster the power system’s responsiveness to fluctuations in demand and supply, facilitating the seamless integration of

emerging technologies into the grid infrastructure,” he said.

Cusi cited the recent announcements by the Department of Energy of a forthcoming addition of more than 4,000 megawatts of renewable energy, conventional power plants and natural gas-based investments slated to become operational this year.

“These investments underscore the tangible outcomes of policy adjustments made during our tenure, demonstrating a tangible shift towards more sustainable and flexible energy solutions,” he said.

Vapes should bear tax stamps by June 1—BIR

BUREAU of Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said Tuesday internal revenue stamps will be mandatory for all imported and locally-manufactured vape products by June 1, 2024.

The fourth-generation internal revenue stamps for such products, as stated in Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 59-2024, will be available for ordering by May 8, 2024.

Lumagui said the BIR would impose this requirement as a way of checking the proper payment of taxes by the vape industry.

“Lack of internal revenue stamps on vape products means non-payment of excise taxes. Non-payment of excise taxes will make the vape products

subject to seizure by the BIR and will expose the business owner to criminal liability for tax evasion,” he said.

“We have warned the illicit vape industry to pay your proper taxes. Comply with the internal revenue stamps by June 1, you can order as early as May 8.

The BIR will monitor the internal revenue stamps for the vape industry,” said Lumagui.

“If your products do not have any internal revenue stamps by June 1, we will raid your stores and seize the products. Those in possession of the illicit vape products shall be held liable. Aside from administrative penalties that can be multiplied ten times, you will also be criminally liable for tax evasion,” he said.

Budget deficit in 2023

Deficit-to-GDP ratio in 2023

P1.5 trillion 6.2% P14.93 trillion

Gov’t debt as of end-March 2024

THE Department of Finance (DOF) said Tuesday it obtained a commitment from the OPEC Fund for International Development (OPEC Fund) for technical assistance to address right-of-way (ROW) acquisition issues to support the smooth implementation of the government’s big-ticket infrastructure projects. DOF Undersecretary for International Finance Group Joven Balbosa met with OPEC Fund president Abdulhamid Alkhalifa on April 18, 2024 at the sidelines of the World BankInternational Monetary Fund (WBIMF) Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C. to foster renewed engagement and cooperation.

The OPEC Fund is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries. It works with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world.

The OPEC Fund supported the Philippines through a $500,000 grant in 2023 for the pilot phase of the Food e-Voucher Program “Walang Gutom 2027”, which was conducted in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the World Food Program (WFP) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Darwin G. Amojelar

Power firms

vow to protect Verde Island biodiversity

By Othel V. Campos

THREE of the Philippines’ biggest conglomerates joined forces with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Energy (DOE) on Tuesday by committing to protecting and conserving the Verde Island Passage (VIP), a critical waterway boasting exceptional marine biodiversity.

The three conglomerates—Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV), Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) and San Miguel Corp. (SMC)—signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the government agencies, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between economic development and environmental protection in the VIP initiative.

“Recognizing the imperative of safeguarding this natural treasure, the government, in collaboration with major business conglomerates, has embarked on a landmark partnership for the protection and conservation of the Verde Island Passage,” said DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga.

The Verde Island Passage, situated between Luzon and Mindoro islands, is referred as “center of the center” of the world’s marine shore fish biodiversity. It weaves through the waters of Batangas, Marinduque, Romblon, Oriental Mindoro and Occidental Mindoro.

Strategically located within the Coral Triangle—a globally renowned hotspot for marine life diversity encompassing Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste—the VIP plays a vital role in marine diversity.

SPNEC plans to welcome 2 foreign partners this year

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SP NEW Energy Corp.

(SPNEC) expects to take in “at most” two foreign partners in Terra Solar Philippines Inc. within the year, an executive said Tuesday.

SPNEC chairman Manuel Pangilinan said the company was in talks with three to five prospective partners who would likely take a 40-percent stake in Terra Solar.

Terra Solar is developing a solar farm in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan with 3,500 megawatts of solar panels and

Semirara keen on developing 700-MW coal plant in Batangas

SEMIRARA Mining and Power Corp. remains keen on developing a 700-megawatt coal-fired power plant in Calaca, Batangas under subsidiary St. Raphael Power Generation Corp. SMPC president and chief operating officer Maria Cristina Gotianun confirmed the project encountered right-of-way issues which hampered its development.

“We remain interested in pursuing SRPGC, but due to the legal challenges NGCP [National Grid of the Philippines] is facing from property owners due to ROW issues, we do not anticipate moving forward anytime soon,” Gotianun said.

Meanwhile, Gotianun said the company was studying the viability of going into liquefied natural gas (LNG).

“We are conducting ongoing studies to assess its viability, capital requirements and price volatility of nat gas,” Gotianun said.

Gotianun earlier said 2024 would be a pivotal period for the company as market prices and demand stabilize.

“Our focus shifts towards boosting coal exports and plant availability, while implementing novel cost-management strategies,” Gotianun said.

She said SMPC expects Sem Calaca Power Corp. unit 2 to operate at its full capacity of 300 MW in the second half, assuming a successful and timely generator swap. The plant was operating at an av-

erage capacity of 175 MW in 2023.

“We anticipate strong performance from the power segment, potentially offsetting anticipated weakness in the coal business due to unfavorable market conditions,” Gotianun said. She said a 12-MW wind farm on Semirara Island would start operation in the first quarter of 2025, and SMPC anticipates annual savings of P200 million by sourcing energy from the facility, which would also help reduce emissions.

“2024 presents a landscape of opportunities and challenges. Our ability to adapt and execute effectively will define our trajectory and directly influence our financial results. While management cannot guarantee specific outcomes, we would like to assure you that we are well-prepared and firmly committed to enhancing the value of our company,” she said. Alena Mae S. Flores

4,000 megawatt-hours of batter energy storage that require investments of about P200 billion.

“They’re now talking to several foreign investors. So, nothing definite yet,” Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan said they were looking at trimming down the prospective partners to two companies taking a 20-percent stake each.

He said while there were “indicative numbers” on the value of the 40-percent stake, “ it’s too early to tell anybody.”

Pangilinan earlier said the company was looking at investors to help fund Terra Solar’s solar project, touted as the world’s biggest solar project.

“We will have to get in new investors into the Terra Solar project com-

pany level to help us with the financing of the total project because the estimated cost is about P200 billion to implement the project in full,” Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan said the company was in the process of talking to potential investors, with the help of financial advisors.

“Most likely foreign investors will come in for an up to 40-percent equity stake at the Terra Solar level,” Pangilinan said.

SPNEC organized a team dedicated to the execution of the project and ensure its timely completion.

“We intend to meet our targets, which is our commitment to the government to energize this by 2026,” he said.

Ayala Land’s upscale brand books P12.7-b residential sales

By Jenniffer B. Austria

ALVEO Land Corp., the upscale residential brand of Ayala Land Inc., booked P12.7 billion in residential sales in the first three months of 2024, its highest first-quarter sales performance on record, driven by successful launches of projects in Nuvali, Laguna and Versoma, Cavite.

Alveo president Joseph Carmichael Jugo said in a news briefing Tuesday the upscale property market remained robust and resilient despite the high inflation and high interest rate environment.

“We are very pleased with the extremely strong 1st quarter sales performance affirming the confidence in the premium market. We are grateful to our clients for their trust in the Alveo brand as we aim to meet their

needs in modern, urban, and suburban living,” said Jugo. Alveo Land launched two horizontal projects—Sereneo Nuvali and Caleia Vermosa in the first quarter of the year.

Sereneo, Alveo Land’s sixth project inside the Nuvali eco-estate in Laguna, posted almost P1.5 billion in yearto-date reservation sales.

The 41-hectare development, launched in March 2024, offers residential lots with a typical size of 275 square meters. Sereneo Nuvali features a 770-square meter pool, the largest pool among all the neighborhoods in Nuvali.

The project features a sprawling three-hectare central park with a pavilion clubhouse and a two-hectare park system that will benefit future homeowners of Sereneo Nuvali.

PETRON Corp. said Tuesday it delivered a strong performance in the first quarter, with net income growing 16 percent to P3.93 billion from P3.4 billion in the same period last year as all business segments posted growth.

“We have been strengthening our recovery and growth following the pandemic, thanks to our efficiency measures, volume strategy, and sustainability agenda. We are pleased to start the new year on a strong note, and we hope to sustain this momentum as we work towards new goals this 2024,” said Petron president and chief executive Ramon Ang in a statement.

Petron said it recorded growth across all business segments in its Philippine and Malaysian operations, bringing its consolidated sales volume to 35.29 million barrels, or 23 percent higher than 2023’s 28.59 million barrels.

It said the growth was driven by higher production at Petron’s refinery in Bataan and Port Dickson.

Consolidated retail sales went up 11 percent, driven by the sustained market recovery and Petron’s effective retail execution, while commercial volumes rose 11 percent on the substantial jump in jet fuel and LPG sales.

Export volumes grew by over 90 percent from the additional export volumes resulting from higher refinery production.

The company’s sales volume under the umbrella of its Philippine operations, which includes the trading volume of the company’s subsidiary in Singapore, recorded a 28-percent growth to 22.72 million barrels from 17.7 million barrels in 2023. Meanwhile, the international oil market continued to be affected by the escalating geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East.

Alena Mae S. Flores

Higher April inflation rate weighs on local stock market

LOCAL stocks extended their losses Tuesday, as the April inflation rate came in a little higher than the previous month’s level.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped 31.91 points, or 0.51 percent, to close at 6,618.58, while the broader allshares index lost 10.76 points, or 0.31 percent, to settle at 3,505.75.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said the index tumbled as April inflation rate inched up to 3.8 percent from 3.7 per-

cent in March, driven by higher prices for food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Mikhail Plopenio said investors exercised caution amid the continuous climb in inflation rate, which is now nearing the upper end of the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

“Investors also traded cautiously while waiting for the Philippines Q1 GDP [gross domestic product] data set to be released later this week,” Plopenio said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the market dropped after Israel rejected a ceasefire proposal that was backed by Hamas. Value turnover reached P5.72 billion. Foreign investors were net sellers by P890.7 million. Meanwhile, most Asian markets built on the latest global rally Tuesday as optimism that the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this year continued to breeze through trading floors. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

Conglomerates Aboitiz Equity Ventures

PORT HANDOVER.

SMPC president and chief operating officer Maria Cristina Gotianun

BUSINESS

Metro Pacific Water asks COWD to settle P479-m debt in installment

CAGAYAN de Oro Bulk Water Inc. (COBI), a unit of Metro Pacific Water, asked Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) to settle its P479-million debt in installment to resume supplying water to the water distributor.

“We do not even require COWD to immediately pay the full amount of our claims, but rather to settle the undisputed portion of their debt by way of installments, and the parties can then proceed to amicably discuss the disputed portion of our claim,” COBI said in a statement. COBI said the decision to cut off water

supply to COWD was a joint decision with Rio Verde Water Consortium, which is “the only way COWD would take the matter seriously”.

COBI said it made massive investment on the premise that COWD would make true on its promise to comply with its contractual obligations.

“Notwithstanding COWD’s default

in its agreement, we patiently waited for years to come to an amicably resolution of the matter. Sadly, our plight was ignored by COWD for reasons unknown to us,” it said.

“The decision to cut-off supply of water to COWD is something that we do not take lightly. This is why we exhausted all possible means to resolve the issue, including requesting mediation by LWUA. Our representatives have been flying in and out of Cagayan de Oro for the past year trying to settle the issue,” COBI said.

It said that after a meeting on April 30, 2024, with the COWD chairman, the board of the water district could

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) and its marketing and promotions arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), are looking at exceeding the P1billion sales they generated during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai in 2023.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco led the opening of the Philippine Pavilion at the ATM 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), where she underscored the significance of the country’s participation at the event.

“I’m so happy to join all of you today at the Arabian Travel Market where the Philippines will make its mark as the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination for 2023, and hopefully we would

be able to defend that very same title especially considering all the strides that have been made by our government to prioritize Muslim travelers from this region coming into our country,” she said.

Frasco attributed the successful ATM 2023 participation of the Philippines to the hard work of tourism stakeholders.

The DOT signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) to establish more Muslim- friendly properties in the Philippines during the opening of the Philippine Pavilion at the ATM 2024.

“Through the signing of this memorandum of agreement, all of the MegaWorld properties commit

their properties to be Halal- and Muslim-friendly properties and, in addition to that, they will be our partners in furthering our country brand, Love the Philippines as well as to ensure the Filipinization of resort properties all over the country,” Frasco said. MHR managing director Cleofe Albiso said the group is looking forward for its collaboration with the DOT to help the Philippines attract more Muslim tourists and create stronger ties with them.

“So, I hope that this MOU is just the start, and we also entice many of our stakeholders to do the same. Secretary, you have our full commitment, and we look forward to enliven this partnership,” she said. Othel V. Campos

HOSPITAL INVESTMENT. Metro Pacific Health Corp. (MPH) seals its investment in UHBI-Parañaque Doctors Hospital Inc. (PDH) in a signing ceremony attended by (from left) Divino Lorenzo Villanueva III, director for investment banking of GIV Capital (advisor to sellers); Conrado Gloria Jr., president and CEO of GIV Capital; Manuel Eduardo Lunas, former chairman/resident of Parañaque Doctor’s Hospital; Jose Noel de la Paz, director for corporate development of Metro Pacific Health; and Kris Anne Tuaño, assistant vice president for business development of Metro Pacific Health. This is MPH’s 10th hospital in Metro Manila.

METRO Pacific Health Corporation (MPH), the largest private hospital network in the country, announced its acquisition of a majority stake in UHBI-Parañaque Doctors Hospital Inc. (PDH), its 10th hospital in Metro Manila.

PDH was established 21 years ago by a group of 58 founders consisting of doctors, professionals and entrepreneurs. It is a 94-bed Level 2 hospital along Doña Soledad Ave., Better Living Subdivision in Paranaque City, catering to its surrounding barangays of Don Bosco, Sun Valley and Moonwalk.

PDH sits on about 6,000-square-meter property, with ample space earmarked for future expansion.

The hospital facilities include a new 7-story building, completed just prior to the onset of the pandemic which, when fully activated, can boost capacity to a total of 150 beds.

“Parañaque City is a key market between Makati and Muntinlupa which MPH has been keen to have a presence in,” said MPH president Augie Palisoc Jr.

“We are grateful to be part of PDH, a hospital with a

rich history and a strong pool of over 200 active doctors,” he said.

MPH’s transformation plan for PDH includes the full utilization of the new building, improvement of the patient flow and enhancement of patient experience, through the rationalization of its ground floor, upgrade of hospital equipment and improvement of clinic spaces, all geared towards drawing in the larger outpatient market of Parañaque and its environs.

Metro Pacific Health chief executive Dr. Harish Pillai highlighted the continuing mission of MPH in the broader Philippine healthcare landscape.

“Our investment in UHBI-Parañaque Doctors Hospital marks a significant milestone in our journey to expand access to quality healthcare across the Philippines and serve more communities in the country. As we integrate UHBI-Parañaque Doctors Hospital into the Metro Pacific Health group, our focus remains steadfast on delivering patient-centered care, prioritizing quality, safety, and affordability,” said Pillai.

not even form a quorum on the day of the meeting, which brings into question the seriousness of COWD to amicably resolve the matter.

“Together with RV, we agreed to cut off the water supply to COWD because we felt that is the only way COWD would take the matter seriously. To be clear, the decision to cut-off water supply to COWD was a joint decision by COBI and Rio Verde, which we took very seriously and after painful deliberation, and with the full intention of immediately restoring water supply as soon as COWD comes back to the negotiating table and shows seriousness in resolving the issue,” it said.

IGNITION TALKS.

Philippine National Oil Co. president and chief executive Oliver Butalid expresses his gratitude to Danish Ambassador to the Philippines Palau Franz Michael Skjold Mellbin for his insightful presentation during the agency’s monthly Ignition Talks event. Mellbin underscored the importance of international collaboration and shared experiences in advancing sustainable energy solutions for a brighter and greener future.

Baguio boom seen after SC ruling against Camp John Hay

By Othel V. Campos

BAGUIO City is expected to facilitate more business opportunities after the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) was authorized by the Supreme Court to reclaim the 247-hectare property within the John Hay Special Economic Zone, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) said in a statement Tuesday.

Camp John Hay Development Corp. (CJHDevCo) will soon vacate the BCDA-owned property as ordered by the Supreme Court, ending the so-called “period of uncertainty” and opening new opportunities to create new business in the area.

“We strongly support the national government in further creating a robust business environment in the region. We are confident that the ongoing efforts will yield remarkable results and create lasting changes for the better,” said PCCI-CAR regional governor Deimler Cuyan.

He said these new prospects would optimize the potential of Camp John Hay as a catalyst of economic growth in Baguio and the CAR.

The Supreme Court earlier affirmed the ruling of Baguio City Regional Trial Court, allowing the BCDA and JHMC to recover the 247-hectare property in John Hay Special Economic Zone and utilize it for the full interest and benefit of the government and of the Filipino people.

Business conferences, exhibitions to boost regional trade, investments

THE World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) underscored the significance of business activities such as meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) in reinforcing collaborations to boost regional trade and cross-border investments.

WTCA vice president for Asia Pacific Scott Wang underscored the organization’s close relations with members and partners such as the Philippines during a visit to the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City.

“Serving as the local business hub that is linked to the WTCA global network, individual WTC operations provide companies around the world with the expertise and connections that are critical for market penetration. The WTC teams also work diligently to match the needs of companies with the best service providers in their respective local marketplaces,” Wang said.

He said WTCA aims to strengthen international cooperation and generate investment opportunities by leveraging its

global network and leading trade services.

Wang cited as example the recently concluded 54th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) in Bengaluru, India. The event brought together local business leaders, WTCA members, international B2B delegates and attendees from 36 countries to explore regional business opportunities and forge new global connections.

WTCMM chairperson and chief executive Pamela Pascual said MICE stimulates the flow of local products, attracting foreign investments and generating local employment through major trade shows, exhibitions, and networking events.

“We continually host major industry events at WTCMM. Through partnerships with other WTCs across Asia and beyond, local businesses successfully connect with foreign counterparts and international buyers. We also plan to expand to other locations within the Philippines to support WTCA’s ‘Road to 500’ initiative,” she said. Othel V. Campos

LOCAL INDUSTRIES.

Officials of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Region 2 visit Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya to explore potential interventions for product development and marketing, promoting Kayapa’s local industries.

2023-2028 to address the country’s housing needs.,” said DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who is also the head of the 11-member PagIBIG Fund board of trustees. The housing czar said that housing units to be sold under the 4PH program would be more economically priced than other residential units in the market in keeping with the price ceiling imposed by the government for affordable housing. Housing loan borrowers who will avail of units under the Pambansang Pabahay (4PH) program through a Pag-IBIG Housing Loan will enjoy an even lower interest rate than what Pag-IBIG Fund currently provides, which is already considered the lowest in the market.

PLDT gets P4-b green loan from Metrobank

By Darwin G. Amojelar

Similar to its initial P1-billion green loan, the loan proceeds are earmarked for the nationwide expansion of PLDT’s fiber footprint which will not only narrow the country’s digital divide, but also ensure a fast and reliable internet experience facilitated by an energy-efficient network.

“PLDT’s active participation in the

while reducing carbon footprint and promoting social inclusion,” said BDO senior vice president and chief conmpliance officer Federico Tancongco.

Ayala’s logistics unit earned P211m in Q1

AYALALAND Logistics Holdings Corp. (ALLHC), an Ayala Land Inc. subsidiary, said Tuesday its first-quarter net income rose 18.5 percent to P211 million from P178 million in the same period last year. First-quarter consolidated revenues hit P1.3 billion, up 85 percent year-on-year from P702 million, signaling a solid recovery from the downturn experienced in 2023, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

“ALLHC’s

growing domestic market of sustainable finance is a demonstration of our adherence to global best practices in pursuit of sustainable profitability,” PLDT chief financial officer and chief risk management officer Danny Yu said.

“We are encouraged by the financial community’s support of the

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ advocacy for sustainable financing as we continue to explore various ways to green our operations. Our partnership with Metrobank reinforces our commitment to broaden our sustainable financing portfolio,” Yu said.

Fiber-optic technology is integral to PLDT’s energy-efficient network, consuming less energy than traditional copper-based infrastructure and requiring less power for data transmission over long distances while maintaining minimal degradation. This not only reduces operational costs but also aligns with the PLDT Group’s decarbonization roadmap by

By Othel V. Campos

THE Australian government plans to launch a $20.6 million fund to help women-led businesses in the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia.

This represents the second phase of its Investing in Women program, after sinking P824.4 million to finance women-led initiatives in the Philippines in the first seven years.

Investing in Women chief executive Hannah Birdsey said the initiative targets businesses that may be

RESPONSIBLE FINANCING.

BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) receiveS the Global Good Governance Award for 3G Green Innovation and Solution category for Green Bond Framework, reaffirming the bank’s commitment to sustainability and responsible financing. Accepting the award is BDO senior vice president and chief compliance officer Federico Tancongco (right) from Prof. Humayon Dar (left), chairman of Global Good Governance Program.

accessing capital for the first time.

“There’s 15 million Australian dollars in investable capital that will go to funds across the region that are investing in women-led businesses, so that will be in the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam. And then, there is a second amount of 5.6 million Australian dollars, which will again be spread across Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam, and will go to support the kind of innovative finance,” she said at the launch of the new phase Tuesday.

She said the two funding are sepa-

minimizing energy usage.

The roadmap aims to reduce its Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2030, coming from a 2019 baseline. Anchoring on this target, the group is also actively exploring integration of renewables, green technologies and various resource optimization initiatives.

“Securing another green loan facility for PLDT showcases our commitment to integrate sustainability in every facet of our operations, and underscores our holistic approach to environmental stewardship and responsible business practices,” said PLDT

chief sustainability officer Melissa Vergel de Dios.

“Together with the financial community’s support, we can drive more meaningful change and collectively build a sustainable future for future generations,” she said PLDT, as of end-March 2024, had over 1.1 million cable kilometers of fiber infrastructure, consisting of over 200,000 cable kilometers of international fiber and over 900,.000 cable kilometers of domestic fiber supporting various internet delivery platforms including fiber fixed broadband, mobile data services, and carrier-grade WiFi.

EastWest Bank of Filinvest Group declared 3-month profit of P1.7b

By Jenniffer B. Austria

EAST West Banking Corp. (EW), the financial arm of the Filinvest Group, saw its first-quarter net income rise 6.25 percent to P1.7 billion from a year ago, driven by consumer lending expansion and strategic digital initiatives.

Return on equity reached 10 percent, or 52 basis points higher than end-2023, EW said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Tuesday.

“Our robust start to the year is a clear indicator of the strategic direction we’ve set — to be one of the top consumer banks in the country. By focusing on the needs of our customers, we are not just responding to the market — we’re shaping it.

rate allocations to make sure that a diverse of women-led enterprises get the capital in a financing format that suits their specific needs.

The program is also dispersing another Au$8 million financing across the ASEAN region, Birdesy said.

The new program builds on the achievements and partnerships established in the first seven years. It focuses on strengthening the evidence to inform policy reforms that support women’s equal participation, particularly regarding care work.

LANDBANK DIVIDENDS. Land Bank of the Philippines remits over P32.119 billion in cash dividends to the national government— the highest in the state-run bank’s history— to support the country’s infrastructure projects and socio-economic programs.

This positions EastWest as a formidable contender in the Philippine banking industry, ready to meet future challenges with agility and confidence,” said EW president Jacqueline Fernandez. Net revenues climbed 28 percent year-on-year to P10 billion, boosted by net interest income growth of 34 percent to P8.2 billion. The bank attributed the growth to its strategic emphasis on refined consumer lending strategies, which enhanced its lending processes, accounting for 81 percent of total loans and contributing to a net interest margin (NIM) of 8.1 percent

Non-interest income reached P1.2 billion, up 8 percent in line with banking transaction growth.

STONEBRIDGE Corp., a company chaired by the wife of Far Eastern University chairman emeritus Aurelio Montinola III, acquired a 9-percent stake in Roxas and Company Inc. (RCI), one of the top-performing stocks in the market.

RCI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Stonebridge purchased 250 million common shares in the company. The 250 million common shares form part of the 299.482 million RCI treasury shares that the company sold on May 3, 2024 at P2 apiece. The acquisition price is a steep 38.2-percent discount to RCI’s closing price on Friday of P3.24. Shares of RLI recently hit a 52-week high of P4. The acquisition will make Stonebridge the third largest shareholder of RCI, after the founding Roxas-Elizalde families and young businessman Leandro Leviste, who also increased his stake from 7.55 percent to 10 percent.

Montinola is an independent

subsidiary Roxaco Land Corp. (RLC) and sugar business through Roxas Holdings Inc. (RHI) with sugar and ethanol manufacturing subsidiaries. Jenniffer B. Austria

BEATING THE HEAT. Residents take advantage of the free drinking water being provided by the Muntinlupa City government. Officials said water distribution centers have been set up to prevent residents from having heat strokes.

PCCI optimistic on new business opportunities at Camp John Hay

THE Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) expressed optimism that more economic and business opportunities will open up for Baguio City and its neighboring towns, following the Supreme Court decision affirming the arbitral resolution allowing the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to recover the 247-hectare property in the John Hay Special Economic Zone.

PCCI-CAR Regional Governor Deimler O. Cuyan said in an official statement that the Supreme Court’s ruling ordering the Camp

Iloilo response teams record spike in cases of heat illnesses

ILOILO CITY – Emergency response teams in this city have recorded increasing cases of heat-related illnesses.

“It’s actually one half of the case(s) that we respond to every day,” said Dr. Johnilyn Gargaritano, the medical officer assigned with the Iloilo City Emergency Responder (ICER) of the Iloilo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).

CDRRMO data showed that the ICER responded to 47 heat-related illnesses in March and 62 in April.

“It’s actually very alarming. The number is small but gradually increasing. Not everyone knows that we have this kind of case,” she said.

Among the health-related illnesses are heat cramps, heat syncope, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Gargaritano said they brought almost all the cases to hospitals because these needed monitoring. Most of them are 50 years old and above, although the youngest case was 17 years old and the eldest was 97. She advised the public to stay home if they have nothing important to do. Otherwise, they should plan out the schedule and how long when they must go out.

“They can go to shaded areas, wear light or light-colored clothes, and always drink water. Don’t wait to be thirsty to drink water, instead take at least one to two cups every hour to avoid getting dehydrated,” she said.

The city government has suspended in-person classes at all levels in public and private schools on Monday, while on Tuesday, only those with air-conditioned classrooms were given the discretion to have face-toface classes.

Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon cited the high heat index forecasted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) as the reason for the cancellation of the inperson classes.

PAGASA forecast a 44 degrees

in

on

IN BRIEF

DOT fair celebrates Cordillera cuisine

TO CELEBRATE the rich cuisine and culture of the country’s highland provinces, the Department of Tourism–Cordillera Administrative Region in partnership with the City Government of Baguio recently held the fifth edition of the “Mangan Taku Cordillera Food and Wine Fair.” Held at the Burnham Park’s Rose Garden, the six-day fair showcased 32 exhibitors of diverse food and beverage items, restaurants, hotels, culinary schools, and partner agencies and local governments.

A daily feature is the Provincial Hour which had live cooking demonstrations on select indigenous dishes of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province. Adding to the excitement were Cookfest contests and Cordillera Wine Mixology competitions which pit home-grown cooks, culinary students and baristas.

According to DOT-CAR regional director Jovita Ganongan, Mangan Taku is a culinary journey that celebrates the time-honored culinary traditions of the Cordilleras that must be appreciated, preserved, and promoted. She added that the event is also in line with the World Food Travel Association’s thrust of promoting food tourism to get a sense of place.

EK to unveil

Mother’s Day special

John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) to vacate the leased property and turn it over to the BCDA ends a period of uncertainty and gives high hopes for the sustainability and stability of business in the region. Cuyan said that the decision brings a renewed business environment that will foster investment and trade opportunities for the Baguio business community. He added that these new prospects will optimize the potential of Camp John Hay as a catalyst of economic growth in Baguio and the CAR. “We strongly support the national

government in further creating a robust business environment in the region. We are confident that the ongoing efforts will yield remarkable results and create lasting changes for the better,” Cuyan said. In a press briefer released by the Supreme Court on April 10, it announced that the en banc has affirmed the ruling of Baguio City Regional Trial Court, allowing the BCDA and JHMC to recover the 247-hectare property in John Hay Special Economic Zone and utilize it for the full interest and benefit of the government and of the Filipino people.

Philippine railway development plan paves way for progress in several key provinces, regions

By Roy C. Tomandao

THE Philippines is on the cusp of an unprecedented transformation as it embarks on a monumental endeavor to modernize its railway network.

This visionary plan not only promises to revolutionize transportation in the country but also serves as a model for sustainable development and progress.

To fulfill this grand vision, the government has garnered support from international partners from Korea, Singapore, Japan, Europe, and the United States. Their collaboration and investment will not only inject much-needed funds into the project but also bring in expertise and advanced technologies that will further accelerate its progress.

The railway development plan is expected to generate over 200,000 jobs during the construction phase, providing a significant boost to the economy.

One of the highlights of this plan is the Amianan

Express, a high-speed and commuter railway system spanning approximately 1,300 kilometers.

This modern marvel will connect the Clark Freeport Zone to the Cagayan Export Zone, as well as 12 other provinces in the region.

In Mindanao, the Eagle Express

will serve as a key lifeline connecting major cities in the region through a high-speed railway system stretching across 1,500 kilometers. Travelers will have the remarkable opportunity to explore the vibrant and rich culture of Mindanao in a day, starting with a delightful beach breakfast in Siargao, experiencing the lush beauty of Del Monte Plantation in Bukidnon for lunch, and culminating the day with a delectable tuna steak dinner in General Santos, followed by a relaxing evening in Davao City.

EAGLE EXPRESS. In Mindanao, Eagle Express will serve as a key lifeline connecting major cities in the region through a high-speed  railway  system stretching across 1,500 kilometers. It is one of the railway development projects being pushed by the government.

This expansive railway project not only promises to transform the national economy but also breathes new life into underserved regions such as Bicol, Palawan, and Visayas. By bridging the rural-urban gap, these regions will experience an economic boost, creating new economic and tourism hubs which will ultimately uplift local communities.

Muntinlupa sets up water stations across city to fight against heat stroke

THE Muntinlupa City government has launched the “Libreng Inuming Tubig to Beat the Heat” campaign, providing free drinking water in public areas.

As the heat index continues to rise, the city government has taken a crucial step to safeguard the health and well-being of its residents, project proponents said.

Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon said the free water stations have been set up on places where there is heavy foot traffic all across the city to prevent heat strokes.

The city has set up six distribution points equipped with mobile water dispensers in the following areas all over the city: Laguerta PNP, Plaza Central, Soldiers Hills Outpost, Alabang Central Market, Alabang Terminal, Upper Sucat Police Station.

Ice is also provided by 1Munti Party for those who prefer their drinking water cold. Trained personnel are present at each station to assist citizens and ensure the quality of the water provided. Hygiene and safety protocols are strictly

followed. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative and stay hydrated during the sweltering summer days.

The City Government of Muntinlupa remains dedicated to providing essential services that enhance the quality of life for all its citizens.

ENCHANTED Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, said it is set to unveil a most magical Mother’s Day Celebration on May 12, Sunday.

EK said visitors can enjoy enchanting activities, exclusive offers, and freebies perfect for all the queen mothers and the whole family.

Witness “An Enchanting Mother’s Day Concert” featuring the mother-daughter tandem Pinky and Karel Marquez at 6 p.m. at the Spaceport Grounds to cap off this special day with music and entertainment.

The performing artists will be accompanied by the Women of Song and Music Making Company as they serenade the audience and pay tribute to all mothers through a series of spectacular performances to remember.

“Here at Enchanted Kingdom, we appreciate and salute these wonderful women who make our lives magical through their unconditional love, care and support for their families. Hopefully through this experience, we would also be able to make Mother’s Day more enchanting,” said Cynthia R. Mamon, EK’s chief operating officer (COO). Guests can also make the most out of the whole month of May with EK’s Ilaw ng Tahanan - A Magical Mother’s Day Promo in collaboration with Firefly Electronic and Lighting Corporation (FELCO). Avail this limited-time offering for P1200 to get a regular day pass and a seat at the “An Enchanting Mother’s Day Concert’’ on May 12. Roy  Tomandao

Bataan celebrates ‘Solo Parents Week’

VICE Gov. Cris Garcia spearheaded the “Solo Parent’s Week” celebrations in Bataan.

The celebration was participated by solo parents from eleven municipalities and a city from the province held at Louis Resort and Restaurant on April 30. The celebration had the theme “Solo Parent na Rehistrado, sa Gobyerno Tiyak na Protektado!

The event included an open forum and discussions on mental health awareness for solo parents. Participants also shared personal experiences on solo parenting.

The provincial government wants the voices and concerns of solo parents in the province to be heard and addressed. Garcia was joined in the celebration by Board Member Popoy Del Rosario, Provincial Social and Welfare and Development Office head Maria Cristina Lopez, and other social welfare officers. Butch Gunio

CORDILLERA FOOD FEST. (From left, bottom row) Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong,  DOTCAR regional director Jovita Ganongan, and culinary heritage advocate Ige Ramos, pose with the winners  of  the “Mangan Taku Cookfest” and the  “Cordillera Wine Mixology” contests.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

Fans call for ‘Queen of Tears’ remake starring KathDen

By Abigail Adriatico

WITH the trend of Philippine remakes of popular K-Dramas seeing an upturn these past few years, it comes as no surprise that many fans have been posting their own fancasts for their favorite pairings in certain shows.

One such K-Drama that has been gaining buzz among Filipino fans is the recently-concluded Queen of Tears headline by the charming duo of Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won Throughout its 16-episode run, Queen of Tears has been a trending topic on X every week as viewers found themselves enamored by the chemistry between the characters of Baek Hyun-woo (Kim Soo-hyun) and Hong Hae-in (Kim Ji-won).

The series’ finale recently became the highest-rated tvN series, beating the record previously held by Crash Landing on You , which was also written by Queen of Tears writer Park Ji-eun

With the series’ success, many Filipino fans couldn’t help but gush about who would perfectly capture the pair’s

SHOWBIZ

the pair receiving traction online due to their close friendship reviving calls for a new KathDen project, some fans were quick to notice how they would be perfect for the role of the charming lawyer Baek Hyun-woo and the cold heiress Hong Hae-in. While fans continue to hope for such a project to come to life, Garcia fueled the rumors for a Hello, Love, Goodbye sequel as she shared videos of herself with

Cinema Creative Head Carmi Raymundo at the Hong Kong International Airport last month. Hong Kong notably served as the setting of the blockbuster film.

“Nostalgic… hihi,” the director teased in the post’s caption.

In separate interviews, both Bernardo and Richards have previously expressed their interest in reprising their roles of Joy and Ethan should a sequel be made. However, no announcements have been made as of writing. For now, KathDen fans may just have to wait a little more to see the pair’s onscreen reunion.

THE highly anticipated Season 3 of Hightown is now available for streaming on Lionsgate Play. The gripping crime series takes viewers on an emotional journey through the opioid crisis gripping Cape Cod, following the struggles of Jackie Quiñonez (Monica Raymund), a National Marine Fisheries Service agent fighting to maintain her sobriety.

In the previous season, viewers witnessed Jackie’s relentless pursuit to establish herself as a cop and seek justice for a devastating loss. Now, in its third and final season, viewers can expect to see beliefs challenged, loyalties tested, and Jackie navigating a path where she must stand firm for her convictions. Reflecting on her initial thoughts on

the character of Jackie, Monica Raymund shares, “I was really intrigued by how messy she was and how imperfect, flawed, and dark. I wanted to explore... these phases of life that all of us go through, these messy I-don’t-know phases... and like, living in that immaturity before we really start to sort of know who we are.”

Atkins Estimond, who portrays the ambitious lieutenant Osito Delgado, reflects on his experience working on the show, saying, “One of the best cast and crews that I’ve ever had the opportunity to work with... Everybody here really cares about each other, but also, we really care about this project. We really care about this show... It’s just been a real gift and a treasure to be on this show.”

A LONG-SIMMERING feud between rap superstars

Drake and Kendrick Lamar exploded into allegations of pedophilia, abuse, and infidelity over the weekend, sending shockwaves through the world of hip-hop and beyond.

Drake, the highest-grossing rapper in the world last year, and Lamar, a Pulitzer Prize winner, have been locked in an escalating war of words in a music genre long known for celebrating and obsessing over beef between its biggest stars.

But while the pair’s previous exchanges have focused on disputes like which man is the bigger star, lyrics in tracks released by both artists over the past few days went far beyond the usual jibes.

Say, Drake, I hear you like ‘em young / You better not ever go to cell block one,” said Lamar in his track

“Not Like Us,” in which he specifically raps about “certified pedophiles.”

Los Angeles-born Lamar’s lyrics accuse Drake, who is from Canada and is of biracial heritage, of being “not a colleague” but a “colonizer” of Black American culture.

And in another song released this weekend, “Meet the Grahams,” Lamar alleges that Drake – whose real name is Aubrey Graham – has a secret daughter.

For his part, Drake dropped a track entitled “Family Matters,” which suggested infidelity and even abuse

in Lamar’s relationship with fiancee and high-school sweetheart Whitney Alford.

And Drake denied allegations about underage girls in another track “The Heart Part 6,” released Sunday, in which he rapped “I’d never look twice at no teenager.”

The barbs have drawn attention among audiences well beyond the usual rap and hip-hop devotees.

The feud was the subject of a Saturday Night Live sketch this weekend, and detailed chronologies of the duo’s insults have been published by mainstream US outlets like the New York Times and CNN Drake, 37, and Lamar, 36, shot to mainstream hiphop fame in the late 2000s and early 2010s. They initially appeared on tracks on each other’s albums, and even toured together. In the following years, bitter splits emerged, as

Kathryn Bernardo (left) and Alden Richards were first paired together in the blockbuster film ‘Hello, Love, Goodbye’

Kim Ji-won (left) and Kim Soo-hyun star as lovers with a marriage on the rocks in hitshow ‘Queen of Tears’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Creative powerhouses bring to life

Ballet Manila’s ‘Lola Basyang’

By Tet Defensor

ALLET Manila ’s Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang returns onstage on May 11, this time with Mitch Valdez playing the lovable storyteller grandma. The role used to be played by the late Luz Valdez

Apart from theater, the long-time radio actress was active in film and television, and very much remembered for portraying a similar character in the ‘70s television fantasy Ora Engkantada

For this season’s production, Lola Basyang will have an interesting twist as Mitch Valdez plans to stand up from the iconic rocking chair and join the dancers onstage.

“And she will sing,” added Ballet Manila artistic director and chief executive officer Lisa Macuja-Elizalde

Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang is an anthology of short stories written by “Lola Basyang,” the pen name of Severino Reyes founder and editor of Liwayway magazine. The ballet production is based on the version of children’s book writer Christine Bellen “The idea came about during my children’s book fair,” Lisa recalls. “I saw the books in their school library, and I bought all 12. Then I called a meeting with my artistic team. I told them to choose one to make into a ballet.”

Stories about romance, adventure, and comedy were chosen, and were called Ang Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang

The production opens with “Ang Prinsipe ng mga Ibon” choreographed by the late Osias Barroso Jr. , Ballet Manila’s co-

artistic director, followed by

”Ang Mahiwagang

choreographed by the late Tony Fabella with music by Ryan Cayabyab Lola Basyang couldn’t have come at a better time according to Mitch. “ I was in that certain stage of my life, emerging from a pandemic, and I didn’t know what to do, teleseryes I have done, lounge acts and concerts I’ve done, and then Lisa texted ‘Do you want to do Lola Basyang’ I said of course!”

The performer added that she intends to be a different Lola Basyang.

“I do not want to sit in a rocking chair…. just yet. I want to move with the dancers. At age 9, I wanted to be Rita Moreno , that was my peg. I will always love, live performance’ and this just falls in the category of an audience. I love the audience and I love to entertain.”

The dance production also worked closely with Anvil Publishing as the material contributes to the legacy of renowned Filipino writer Severino Reyes. Anvil Publishing president Xandra Ramos Padilla sees it as an excellent opportunity to instill pride among local theatergoers.

“We

instill a child’s love for reading.” Ballet Manila’s Tatlong Kwento ni Lola Basyang goes onstage on May 11 at 8:00 p.m., and May 12 and 18 at 5:00 p.m.

P-POP powerhouse SB19 links up with US-based producer/DJ Ian Asher and Chinese electronic producer Terry Zhong for their new single “Moonlight,” released today under Liquid State/Sony Music Philippines.

Infused with sweat-spangled beats and deep, infectious grooves, the dance-pop banger channels romantic desires in the best way possible. As the chorus sums it up, “Doing what we do in the moonlight / I’ll be loving you, baby all night,” the award-winning pop quintet expresses the song’s sensual pining with remarkable finesse, basking in the

glow of the night’s blissful moment. “Moonlight” was produced by Ian Asher, Terry Zhong, and Lenno Linjama, with mixing by Serge Courtois, who has worked with some of the biggest music stars, including Carly Rae Jepsen, Alessia Cara, Nick Jonas, LANY, and Madison Beer, to name a few. The release of “Moonlight” comes with a music video conceptualized and directed by SB19’s Justin De Dios. The minimalist vibe of the MV is paired with slick choreography that finds the multi-talented boyband embracing a fun but eclectic persona in all their ‘poker face’ glory.

SI Mary May Crush Kay Tess, a short film on the burgeoning “Marites culture” in the Philippines, highlights the importance of information literacy in the country.

The movie, which runs for 20 minutes, follows the journey of a 13-year-old girl named Mary as she fights to keep her secret from the infohungry world. In her quest, she finds herself challenging the three ruthless supreme beings in the barangay known as the Tatlong Reyna.

Si Mary May Crush Kay Tess, was inspired by the Filipino slang Marites, which refers to a person, typically a woman, who is

exceptionally gossipy.

It was written by Rayshelle Lozada and directed by Jhun Monterde, both homegrown talents from the Digital Filmmaking (DFilm) Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of New Media Arts (SNMA).

With the support of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Grant, the duo utilized their creative platform to convey the connotations and prejudices behind the term.

With Si Mary May Crush Kay Tess the filmmakers hope to encourage the audience to be vigilant about the

details they accept as truth.

“Information can either help a person or destroy them,” Lozada stressed. “Be someone who can always see the ‘other side’ and not just the ‘side’ that feels more comfortable to you.”

“We hope that the viewers can think twice, give the benefit of the doubt, and be wise in their beliefs and opinions. In a world full of endless unsure information, how often do we check what is the truth?” Monterde added.

Si Mary May Crush Kay Tess may be watched through tinyurl.com/SiMary-May-Crush-Kay-Tess.

“Ang Kapatid ng Tatlong Maria,” choreographed by Lisa Macuja-Elizalde with music by Joey Ayala

Biyulin,”

The production is based on Christine Bellen’s version of Severino Reyes’ ‘Mga Kwento ni Lola Basyang’

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2024

C4 LIFE

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

EVER been the first to hear a friend’s amazing song? Virgin Labfest is like that for plays.

VLF provides a fertile ground for nascent works. Here, playwrights can experiment, audiences witness the birth of something new, and together, they celebrate the untamed beauty of a story as it takes its first steps toward becoming a legend.

This year, VLF celebrates its 19th edition. With 12 new scripts ready to burst (pintog) onstage, the fest rolls out the red carpet for narratives that delve into the complex layers of human experience.

Vengeance of the Gods by Hans Pieter Arao centers on a quest for justice triggered by a public scandal, while Lino Balmes’s Ningas follows a woman’s pursuit of a seemingly simple favor – a name.

Exploring contemporary themes, Rick Patriarca’s Love on the Brain navigates the complexities of modern gay dating in the face of HIV diagnosis. Joshua Lim So exposes a clandestine hospital scheme in Pagkapit sa Hangin, while Ara Jenika Vinzon’s Lipstick at Pulbura narrates the emotional journey of a former guerrilla fighter seeking closure. Chesie Galvez-Cariño’s The Foxtrot intricately explores relationships through the lens of dance, while Elise Santos’s Sa Babaeng Lahat delves into the intersection of religion, sexuality, and selfdiscovery.

Further enriching the festival’s diverse topics, Dustin Celestino’s Ang Munting Liwanag sa

Virgin at 19

Twelve new scripts promising a multifaceted exploration of human experience

Madilim na Sulok ng Serbeserya sa Maynila examines love and privilege in a beer house setting, and Neil Azcuna’s Si Hesus na’A sa U.S. revisits past relationships amidst aspirations for a new life in the United States.

Sentenaryo by Herlyn Alegre brings a family together to celebrate a centenarian’s birthday, while Dip Mariposque’s The Divine Family confronts intricate dynamics amid a pandemic. Jhudiel Clare Sosa’s Identite examines the complexities of a troubled mother-daughter relationship.

In addition to the new works, returning plays from VLF 18 offer insightful perspectives on Philippine society, including Andrew Estacio’s Ang Awit ng Dalagang Marmol Dingdong Novenario’s Dominador Gonzales: National Artist, and Zheg Arban’s Room 209

The festival also presents staged readings of selected submissions, playwrights’ fairs, a writing fellowship program, theater talks, and a dramaturgy fellowship exhibit, providing a comprehensive platform for theater enthusiasts and professionals alike.

VLF 19: Pintog will run from June 12 to 30 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater), with shows scheduled at 2:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.

For more details on the schedule and ticket prices, visit the official social media accounts of CCP, Tanghalang Pilipino, and Writers’ Bloc on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Very Wang Nickie Wang

VLF 18 playwright Andrew Estacio’s ‘Ang Awit ng Dalagang Marmol’ will also return for this year’s festival

The 19th edition of the festival will be held at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez or the CCP Blackbox Theater from June 12 to 30

‘Dominador Gonzales: National Artist’ by Dingdong Novenario shares the difference between the private lives of artists and how they are perceived by the public