Manila Standard - 2024 May 11 - Saturday

No destab in the offing, ex-cops could be plotting

Marcos says no politicking in the active service

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT

Marcos said he has not received any reports of a destabilization plot involving active police officials even as he did not rule out the possibility that some retired officers might be part of the efforts against his administration.

“We don't have a report (of destabilization) in the ranks,” Mr. Marcos said during the sidelines of the distribution of over P110 million in financial assistance to El Niño-affected farmers and fisherfolk in General Santos, South Cotabato, and Sarangani provinces.

“It could be possible that some retired officials could take part in or be joining destabilization efforts. But in the police service, especially the officer corps, we don't see any politicking,” the commander-in-chief added.

Mr. Marcos urged the police and military to stay committed to their oath and to put aside political differences.

By Maricel V. Cruz

HOUSE leaders have condemned the string of "prayer rallies for peace" headlined by former President Rodrigo Duterte and other critics of the Marcos administration, calling it a thinly-veiled smear campaign.

“The fact that they are calling it a peace rally is a bit ironic,” said Deputy Majority Leader and Isabela 6th District Rep. Faustino Dy V.

“It's all about insults, destruction of our current administration... they're not even offering any other solutions to what they're saying or the problems,” he added. It was during one of these prayer rallies that Duterte accused his successor of drug addiction.

MINDANAO SWING. President Marcos Jr. leads the distribution of aid to farmers and fishermen affected by El Nino in Sultan Kudarat. The aid package includes financial assistance from the DSWD, irrigation support and fertilizer from the Department of Agriculture, and employment assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment. TESDA also provided livelihood kits, while the Office of the House Speaker provided rice. Inset photo shows Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, assisted by Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose "Mannix" Dalipe distributing assistance yesterday under the Start-up, Investment, Business Opportunity, and Livelihood (SIBOL) program to 3,000 beneficiaries at Claret School of Zamboanga Gym. Ver Noveno

By Maricel V. Cruz

LAWMAKERS belonging to the newly-formed Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas said they expect more political groups to join the new administration alliance led by President Marcos Jr. and Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez. Deputy Majority Leader and Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy V and Assistant Ma-

jority Leader and Manila Rep. Ernesto Dionisio Jr. said they are looking forward to having more Alyansa members from other political parties.

The two congressmen are affiliated with Lakas-CMD headed by Speaker Romualdez, which forged the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas with President Marcos’ Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) last Wednesday.

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos on Friday called former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agent Jonathan Morales a "professional liar" following the latter's alleged PDEA leaks.

"It's hard to give importance to that. You know, this fellow is a professional liar and like a jukebox. Whatever you drop—just drop some money, whatever song you want, he'll

sing it,” President Marcos told reporters partly in Filipino.

“That seems to be his job, that's why I call him a professional liar,” he added.

The President further pointed out Morales' past misdeeds including his history in false testimony.

"Just look at his record, he has a case of false testimony. That's how it is. He has a history of implicating people in all sorts of issues,” President Marcos noted.

THE Office of the Ombudsman has ordered graft charges to be filed against former Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and Lloyd Christopher Lao in connection with their roles in the 2020 Pharmally scandal. Lao was the former procurement service (PS) head of Department of Budget and Management (DBM), who signed billions worth of government contracts to buy overpriced medical supplies during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CONSUMERS

Gibo says Balikatan 2025 wargames will get real

DEPARTMENT of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday said that the next edition of the annual US-Philippines "Balikatan" exercises will see more heightened action through realistic scenarios and full-battle simulations.

In his speech at the closing rites in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, the defense chief also extended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. 's well wishes to all participants of the three-week drills conducted on strategic locations in the country.

“I was with our President yesterday

“Even if you didn't vote for me, it's fine with me as long as you're professional. Just do your job right. That's all I ask for from all police, from the armed forces,” the President said.

Earlier this week, former Senator

#ANONGBALITA?

and informed him that today would be the closing ceremonies of the Balikatan, and he extends his congratulations to both armed forces and all those who participated for the successful conduct of this year's exercise,” Secretary Teodoro said in his keynote speech. "He (Marcos) looks forward to next

Antonio Trillanes IV accused retired and high-ranking officials of the Philippine National Police of plotting against President Marcos.

He said these police officials were actively recruiting members of the military.

year's exercise which will be, I believe, a full-battle simulation which will put to the test the combined capabilities in the most realistic of scenarios possible with safety in mind," the DND chief added.

Secretary Teodoro also applauded the drills, which concluded without untoward incidents.

"That's not easy, given the El Niño period now. It probably posed a significant challenge in operating, particularly to those on the ground," Teodoro said.

Some 16,000 Filipino and American soldiers took part in the exercises which started on April 22.

Secretary Teodoro also echoed the

observation made by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson that it had been a productive year for bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Manila and Washington, D.C. and their allies, such as Australia, Japan, France, India, Canada, and other "like-minded nations."

Secretary Teodoro stressed that everything he discussed with his counterparts may prove vital to the strengthening of joint activities, combined postures, and interoperability.

“We look forward to this because

exercises such as this, where at least on the Philippine side, we go out of our normal comfort zone and try to focus on actual soldiering – which is what an armed forces needs to be – was done,” he added. “I have told the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that we will be increasing the pressure continuously for them to evolve as soon as possible into a multi-threat, multi-theater operating armed force, consistent with the archipelagic doctrine of our country, combined with the necessity for defending it in a proactive and not a passive manner,” Secretary Teodoro stated.

Sofitel Manila to close down starting July 1

By Ratziel San Juan

SOFITEL Philippine Plaza Manila has announced it will close and cease operations starting July 1 this year as it embarks on major repairs.

Built in 1973 and opened in 1976, the five-star luxury hotel said it will only honor engagements and reservations until the end of June and "close its iconic doors thereafter."

“This decision comes as part of our ongoing commitment to providing our guests and colleagues with the best possible experience,” Sofitel said in a statement. The bayside property acknowledged its various stakeholders through the years, having operated for almost half a century.

“Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila had a long legacy as the hotel of choice for almost five decades for heads of

USING virtual reality headsets, students at a Hong Kong university travel to a pavilion above the clouds to watch an AI-generated Albert Einstein explain game theory.

The students are part of a course at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) that is testing the use of "AI lecturers" as the artificial intelligence revolution hits campuses around the world.

The mass availability of tools such as ChatGPT has sparked optimism about new leaps in productivity and teaching, but also fears over cheating, plagiarism and the replacement of human instructors.

Professor Pan Hui, the project lead for HKUST's AI project, is not worried about being replaced by the tech and believes it can actually help ease what he described as a global shortage of teachers.

"AI teachers can bring in diversity, bring in an interesting aspect, and even immersive storytelling," Hui told Agence France Presse (AFP).

In his "Social Media for Creatives" course, AI-generated instructors teach 30 post-graduate students about immersive technologies and the impact of digital platforms.

These instructors are generated after presentation slides are fed into a program. The looks, voices and gestures of the avatars can be custom-

states, celebrities, and global corporations alike, and it has been home to celebrations and milestones of our beloved patrons and clients,” Sofitel said.

“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support and patronage of our stakeholders, employees, and guests who have been instrumental in this long journey,” it added.

It is not yet clear for how long the hotel will remain shuttered, even as sources said its landlord, GSIS, has been advised on the renovation plan.

In an interview mid-last year, Philippine Plaza Holdings Inc. (PPHI) president Esteban Pena Sy said the hotel would need a major renovation to remain competitive.

“The hotel is almost 50 years old. A lot of retouching needs to be done... (to) beautify the hotel to keep the hotel competitive after the reclamation,” Sy said.

AI professors? HK school tests new 'lecturers'

ized, and they can be displayed on a screen or VR headsets.

This is mixed with in-person teaching by Hui, who says the system frees human lecturers from the "more tedious" parts of their job.

For student Lerry Yang, whose PhD research focuses on the metaverse, the advantage of AI lecturers was in the ability to tailor them to individual preferences and boost learning.

If the AI teacher "makes me feel more mentally receptive, or if it feels approachable and friendly, that erases the feeling of distance between me and the professor," she told AFP.

While initially hesitant, most Hong Kong universities last year allowed students to use AI to degrees that vary from course to course.

At HKUST, Hui is testing avatars with different genders and ethnic backgrounds, including the likenesses of renowned academic figures such as Einstein and the economist John Nash.

"So far, the most popular type of lecturers are young, beautiful ladies," Hui said.

An experiment with Japanese anime characters split opinion, said Christie Pang, a PhD student working with Hui on the project.

"Those who liked it really loved it. But some students felt they couldn't trust what (the lecturer) said," she said. AFP

BSP: No 'hidden wealth' as Pinoys demand trillions

By Ratziel San Juan

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

(BSP) said it does not directly give out money after thousands of Filipinos stormed the central bank demanding "hidden wealth."

"The BSP wishes to clarify that it does not directly disburse funds to the public. Instead, the BSP gives dividends to the government in order to contribute to programs that would elevate the lives of Filipinos," the BSP said in Filipino.

This comes after Democratic and Republican Guardians Philippines Inc. founder Gilbert Langres earlier this week led thousands from different regions to the BSP, claiming an amount of up to P100 trillion awaits

Filipinos.

Langres also brought supposed documents like an alleged certificate from the central bank's treasury department to support his claims.

BSP security personnel had advised the group consisting mostly of senior citizens to go home due to the extreme heat, vowing to relay their message to the proper officials.

Earlier this week, the central bank also released an advisory on individuals posing as its employees.

“To guard against such misrepresentations, the BSP reminds the public to always remain vigilant, avoid providing personal or financial information to suspicious individuals, and refrain from sending money to unverified recipients,” the BSP said.

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

“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,” Trillanes said. He, however, admitted that no one from the Armed Forces of the Philippines had joined the ranks of destabilizers.

Rody...

From A1

At a prayer rally in Manila, former congressman Glenn Chong threatened to slap First Lady Liza Marcos-Araneta.

During another prayer rally in Tagum City, former Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines to withdraw support from the President over his handling of the issue in the West Philippine Sea.

In another prayer rally in Dumaguete, former presidential spokesman Harry Roque said that Vice President Sara Duterte is the country's "true president."

“If we listen to what is being said, the words being uttered on the stage are far from their desire to have peace,”

Ex-PDEA...

From A1

Morales is under Senate investigation over the alleged leaked documents from the agency linking notable personalities such as President Marcos to illegal drug use.

PDEA, however, refuted Morales' confessions and listed the leaked documents as fake.

Meanwhile, a legislator from Mindanao has appealed to senators and congressmen to conduct due diligence and complete staff work (CSW) in handling investigations in aid of legislation so as not to waste valuable government resources.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House committee on dangerous drugs, made the call amid the dismal outcome of the probe on the alleged “PDEA Leaks”, initiated by the Senate committee on public order chaired by reelectionist Senator Ronald Bato dela Rosa.

The probe is based on a lone witness’ written claim that was already dismissed as non-existent by PDEA yet being resurrected and given attention 12 years after its alleged filing by dismissed PDEA anti-drug agent Jonathan Morales.

Ombudsman...

From A1

Both Duque and Lao are being accountable for violating Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act following a complaint filed by then Senator Richard Gordon.

Gordon headed the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, which investigated the transfer of public funds amounting to P11.5-billion by the Department of Health (DOH) to the PS-DBM for the highly controversial pandemic response of the government under then President Rodrigo Duterte.

Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corpo-

More...

From A1

During the ceremonial turnover at the Sultan Kudarat Sports and Cultural Center, President Marcos handed P50 million each to Sultan Kudarat Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu and Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Mendoza.

"This is my purpose here right now, not just to provide assistance, but to promise that the government is with you

meant to agitate, to incite sedition and rebellion,” he said.

The PNP, for its part, quickly belied the former senator's claim and appealed to him to spare the police from politicking.

"We have not monitored any police officer who is involved in this so-called destabilization plot and we have not monitored any destabilization plot for that matter,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said.

Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said.

Acidre said it would be more productive to focus on addressing issues and providing solutions to the country’s challenges instead of resorting to negative propaganda.

In a press conference in January, former President Duterte said only "stupid people" will link him to destabilization efforts against the administration as he urged Filipinos to observe the rule of law.

Asked if he is satisfied with the Marcos administration, Duterte said then: "In a sense, we have not seen any issue of corruption or abuse. In a sense, Marcos is treading a straight path."

"I can't say there is a need for change or anything. I do not see any need for agitation -- nothing," he added.

“The people were tortured in listening to Mr. Morales’ arrogant presentation of myths and fairy tales, hearsays and double hearsays, uncorroborated and unfounded allegations without an iota of evidence to support them,” he said.

“I am no expert in the rules on evidence, but it would be foolhardy for anybody to validate and authenticate any evidence, the existence of which was already denied by the agency which is the official custodian of such documents. If the document is fake, we should not waste time looking for the original because there is none," Barbers said.

Morales, who is now masquerading as an anti-drug crusader under a group called “Anti-Drug Advocate Laban ng Pamilyang Pilipino Center for Investigative Regulatory Compliance”, had been dismissed from the police service and as PDEA agent for his alleged involvement in various administrative and criminal offenses.

“Engaging the unfounded and uncorroborated claims and narratives of Mr. Morales is just a waste of time, money and government resources. It’s much ado about nothing. He is found to be having selective memories of events, like some barbershop rumor, when asked to provide details of his tales and allegations,” Barbers said.

ration was awarded a large share of medical supply contracts despite only having P625,000 paid-up capital as a company, according to records from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Based on its investigation, the Ombudsman found reason to believe that Pharmally's funds came from its irregular transactions with the PSDBM.

“Its financial statements indicate that prior to the 2020 dealings with the PS-DBM, the company had no business activity from September to December 2019. Pharmally even incurred a net loss of P25,550.00,” according to the Ombudsman.

in fighting the bad effects of El Niño,” President Marcos told the gathering. The assistance includes P10,000 in presidential aid for affected farmers, fisherfolk, and residents, along with P5,000 from the Department of Agriculture (DA) under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund-Rice Farmers Financial Assistance.

Additionally, the DA provided seedlings, fertilizers, and machinery.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided

Lakas,...

"Definitely one thing is certain, that we are happy with the new alliance. The morale of the members is very high and of course we expect other parties to join this alliance also in the next few month", Dy said in a news conference. He said those who have left the administration coalition are welcome to join the newly-minted alliance.

“I can imagine that the President’s statements are very clear, that he still wants unity, he still wants everyone to be unified under the current administration because we all have the same goal — to continue the progress of our country,” he said.

Dionisio said President Marcos’ unity message resonates with coalition members.

“We are very fortunate to have a President who really adheres to the word unity. He really embraces everyone. As long as you are one with the vision of our President for progress, there is no reason for you not to join,” he said.

Dy and Dionisio said they expect the alliance leadership to resolve divisive issues, including the fielding of common candidates in the May 2025 elections.

“That's something that was not discussed yet and it's something I'm sure the leaders of LAKAS and PFP will discuss in the next meetings,” Dy said. For his part, Deputy Majority Leader and Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre said some members of their group are also members of Lakas.

"Well, so far you know that TINGOG and LAKAS are really close, and the constitution of TINGOG allows a member of the TINGOG party list to be affiliated with a national political party. The only thing that cannot be done is the incumbent congressmen," he said.

Oil companies are expected to rollback gasoline prices by P2 to P2.25 per liter, diesel by P0.50 to P0.85 per liter and kerosene by P0.90 to P1 per liter by Tuesday.

This will be the fourth weekly consecutive rollback for diesel and kerosene and the third for gasoline.

Romero said these estimates may change based on the results of the final trading today.

"Oil prices fell in Asian trade as industry data pointed to the sustained increase in US inventories; the strength of dollar that downplayed expectations of lower interest rates this year; and lastly a report from Hamas Officials that accepted a new ceasefire proposal for Gaza," Romero said.

On May 7, 2024, the oil companies implemented a per liter decrease in gasoline by P0.75, diesel by P0.90 and P1.05 for kerosene.

Year-to-date adjustment of gasoline and diesel stand at a per liter net increase of P9.25 per liter and P4.70 per liter, respectively.

Kerosene, on the other hand, has a net decrease of P0.80 per liter.

DOE data showed that pump prices in the National Capital Region ranged from P58 to P88.47 per liter, diesel from P52.90 to P81.40 per liter and kerosene from P72.29 to P84.06 per liter.

P10,000 in assistance through its crisis program, while Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) gave roughly P4,000 to 583 beneficiaries under its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) distributed certificate grants worth over P40,000, and the Technical Educations Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provided 21 livelihood toolkits and allowances to scholars.

IN BRIEF

SSS to aid families of three OFWs killed in Dubai flood THE Social Security System has reached out to the families of the three overseas Filipino workers who died in Dubai due to the widespread flooding.

SSS President and chief executive officer Rolando Macasaet said SSS employees from the branch offices in Pampanga, Tuguegarao and Cebu, with help from the Department of Migrant Workers, visited the families of Jenny Gamboa, Marjorie Saquing-Ancheta and Dante Casipong to assist them in filing funeral and death benefit claims for their deceased family members.

“We sympathize with the bereaved families of our countrymen who presumably have drowned after their vehicles got submerged in floodwaters in Dubai. Our branch personnel will help them process their benefit claims until they receive the SSS benefits,” he said. Rio Araja

Cebu Pac rolls out P1 fare promo for Mother’s Day

CEBU Pacific Air (CEB) has relaunched its piso fare promotion for domestic and international flights in time for Mother’s Day.

Air travelers can book their flights from May 10 to 14 for their local and international destinations for as low as P1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges.

“This piso sale is specially designed to delight moms as the travel period will run from July 1, 2024, to November 30, 2024, allowing them to start mapping out their dream adventure while celebrating Mother’s Day today,” the CEB management said in a statement Friday. Joel Zurbano

Over 720 finish Caloocan’s livelihood training program

A TOTAL of 727 trainees from both North and South Caloocan graduated from the free livelihood training program of the Caloocan City Manpower Training Center (CCMTC) and received their livelihood kits to help kickstart their own careers.

The new graduates were from various vocational training courses offered by the CCMTC, such as computer operations, automotive servicing, cosmetics, culinary science, and electrical wiring installation and repair. Jun David

Iran frees Pinoy seafarer—DMW

By Vito Barcelo, Joel Zurbano and Rey Requejo

ONE of the four Filipino seafarers who were among the 25 crewmen held by the Iranian navy at the Strait of Hormuz was released, the departments of Migrant Workers and Foreign Affairs said on Friday.

“The Philippines welcomes the good news that one of the four Filipino seamen at the MSC Aries has been released and is arriving home later today (Friday),” DFA said in a statement.

“We appreciate Iran’s gesture and the intercession of India in this matter,” it added.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac expressed op-

timism they would be able to secure the release of three other Filipino seamen who remain under the custody of Iranian authorities.

Cacdac said the DMW is coordinating with the ship agent and licensed manning agency.

The seafarer’s return came after he and six other crew members, including an Estonian and

five Indian nationals, of MSC Aries were freed on May 9. Their ship was seized by Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard on April 13. MSC Aries is owned by Gortal Shipping, Inc., which is affiliated with Zodiac Maritime Shipping Company. IRNA News identified Zodiac as partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer. The seizure of the vessel occurred amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel over the latter’s attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria on April 1, which killed several Iranian military advisors, including two IRGC senior commanders.

NATIONAL Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said a total of 472 police personnel have been dismissed due to various offenses under his watch.

Nartatez said this is a manifestation of their aggressive campaign to ensure the integrity and professionalism of the organization.

Aside from the dismissed cops, Nartatez said 42 policemen were also demoted while 434 were suspended for various offenses.

He said 187 cops were reprimanded while 91 were penalized by forfeiture of salary.

“We also have a total of 1,226 personnel who are facing administrative cases. I have already given instruction for the fast resolution of the case but without sacrificing the due process,” said Nartatez, who assumed as Metro Manila’s top cop in July.

Citing records from the NCRPO, Nartatez said most of the dismissed cops were axed for being absent without official leave (AWOL).

QCPD director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, for his part, said they are continuously implementing several measures to weed out the scalawags in the police force.

Show mom you care with these Mother’s Day gifts under P1,000

These

deals go beyond the flowers that typically rule the day

THERE’S never a bad time to show appreciation for your mom, but since Mother’s Day is just right around the corner on Sunday, May 12, we’ve rounded up presents for her special day you can get at SM Supermalls. And the great news is: They’re all under P1,000, going beyond the bundles of blooms that usually define the day.

If you’re on a tight budget but still want to thank the person who birthed, bathed, and

for all skin types.

Fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and lightweight with a refreshing texture, this potent beauty potion in a tub moisturizes and protects skin with 48-hour

OLD SCHOOL. A youngster from San Fernando, La Union enjoys playing with spiders. Dave Leprozo

‘Aliens involved in crimes, beware’

JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday warned aliens involved in unlawful activities, saying the full force of the law will be applied against them.

Remulla issued the warning after the Department of Justice (DOJ) received a new set of criminal cases filed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) against Chinese nationals arrested for operating a prostitution den in Pasay City raided by the police on Oct. 27 last year.

Sanctions eyed vs. erring China diplomats in PH

By Vince Lopez

NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Año on Friday echoed the call of Defense Secretary, Gilberto Teodoro Jr. for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to investigate the possible criminal liability of the Chinese Embassy following claims that they hold vital evidence proving the “new model” claim of Beijing.

The Embassy has said that they have a recorded voice conversation between Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos and a Chinese diplomat linking the Philippine Navy official to China’s new model claim.

"We join Secretary Gilberto Teodoro in his call for the Department of Foreign Affairs to take appropriate actions against individuals in the Chinese Embassy who claim to have recorded an alleged phone conversation between a Chinese diplomat and a military official for violating Philippine laws, particularly the Anti-Wire Tapping Act, as well as for serious breaches of diplomatic protocols and conventions,” Año said in a statement.

He also said the repeated acts of spreading false information and committing to malign the factual information by releasing such transcripts and recordings of conversations must be dealt with serious penalties.

The eight-page complaint was lodged by the PNP-Luzon Field Unit-Women and Children Protection Center against 26 Chinese nationals for serious illegal detention and various violations of the

anti-trafficking laws.

A composite team of the DOJ-InterAgency Council Against Trafficking, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. and the PNP swooped down last year on the Smart Web Technology Corp. operated by the respondents in Pasay City, and rescued several prostitution and labor exploitation victims.

“Over the years, the Philippines has always welcomed foreigners with open

warms demonstrating how hospitable and loving Filipinos are. However, it is the State’s responsibility to protect its citizenry when offending foreigners abuse the warmth embrace and generosity of our people,” Remulla said.

“The Philippines is no haven for sinister aliens, ensure airtight cases are filed against them,” he added. It was the third wave of cases filed against Chinese nationals involved in prostitution and labor exploitation. Rey Requejo

IN BRIEF

Sen. Binay undecided on mayoralty plans

SENATOR Nancy Binay wants to continue the “Binay legacy of taking care of Makati residents,” but right now, her decision to run for Makati mayor is just “30 percent.”

The legacy, she said, was started by her father, Jejomar Binay, who served as Makati Mayor for 39 years. Her mother, Dra. Elenita Binay, and brother Junjun. were also Makati Mayor for one term or three years. Her younger sister, Abby Binay, is the city’s incumbent mayor.

According to Binay, she is seriously contemplating to run for Makati mayor in next year’s elections.

She also braces for another rift with sister Abby who will field her husband, Rep. Luis Campos, in next year’s mayoralty race.

She noted that Campos had already given his word to run for mayor so she is exerting effort to ward off a family feud.

However, she’s not dismissing the possibility of a divided Binay family comes election time. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Japanese fugitive nabbed in P’que

A JAPANESE national wanted for abduction and rape in Japan will be deported soon following his arrest in Paranaque City, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.

The foreigner, identified as Sugihara Hirotaka, who had been hiding in the Philippines since 2019, was cornered along Dr. A. Santos Ave., San Dionisio, Parañaque by operatives of the BI’s fugitive search unit (FSU). BI chief Norman Tansingco said Hirotaka will be sent back to Japan as he was already ordered expelled by the BI in August 2021 under a directive by the BI’s board of commissioners.

“We will deport him as soon as we have secured the necessary clearances for his departure. He cannot return to the Philippines as he was already blacklisted and banned from re-entering the country,” Tansingco added. Vito Barcelo

PCG opens new repair, maintenance facility

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday inaugurated its newly constructed maintenance and repair group workshop facility at the Headquarters Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) Cavite Buoy Base in Sangley Point, Cavite City. According to MSSC, the new facility will enhance the units’ capabilities in terms of ships and small boat repair and maintenance in order to deliver the best services of PCG floating assets to the country.

“It has been my privilege to join you all today and look forward to many upcoming opportunities to recognize our amazing journey together. You truly are friends, partners, allies and family. Thank you very much,” said Robert Ewing, deputy chief of mission of the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Vince Lopez

Some food manufacturers, processors freeze prices until July 10

By Ratziel San Juan

SOME local manufacturers of basic products are voluntarily freezing prices of select stock keeping units (SKUs) of canned meat, processed milk, and bottled water until July 10.

The move follows a meeting between the Department of Trade and Industry

CARP needs P19b to

bankroll

(DTI) and manufacturers of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs). BNPCs included canned sardines, processed milk, coffee, bottled water, processed and canned meat, condiments, and toilet soap.

Meanwhile, the following products are included in the price freeze: Wilkins distilled bottled water, Viva mineralized bottled water, CDO luncheon meat, CDO meat loaf, Bingo corned beef, Bingo beef loaf, CDO beef loaf, 555 meat loaf, Argentina meat loaf, Argentina corned beef, Argentina beef loaf, 555 beef loaf, Birch Tree full cream milk, Instant

execution of programs, projects until 2025—DAR

Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual has since commended Century Pacific Food, Inc., CDO Foodsphere, Inc., and Coca-Cola Beverages for their participation in the initiative.

He also proposed establishing a direct linkage program between farmers and retailers to streamline the supply chain and potentially lower costs.

The PARC is the highest policy-making body for the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.

st meeting of the PARC to discuss the financial requirements of the agrarian reform program in 2024 and 2025. The requested fund of P19 billion would be used for the payment of landowners’ compensation, construction of bridges under the Pang-Agraryong Tulay para sa Bagong Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka, farm-to-market roads, farm machineries and equipment, and educational scholarships for the children of agrarian reform beneficiaries. They are eyeing the agrarian reform fund as a source of the allocations. The fund was created in 1987 pursuant to Section 2 of Proclamation 131 issued on July 22, 1987 to cover the cost of implementing the agrarian reform, including the acquisition and distribution of agricultural lands and provision of support services.

MRS. UNIVERSE CONTESTANTS. Mrs. Universe Philippines national director Maria Charo Calalo and regional director Thea Sian pose with eight candidates of the pageant during their presentation to the press and sashing rite in Valenzuela City.

REMEMBERING THE DEATH OF A NATIONAL HERO. Senator Francis Tolentino joins direct descendants of the national hero

Andres Bonifacio in commemoration of the 127th death anniversary of the Katipunan founder at the Bonifacio Trial House owned by the Tolentino Museum Foundation in Maragondon, Cavite. Norman Cruz

OPINION

Unprotected speech by Badoy

THIS is Part 2 of the series I began last April 27 on a decision by the Supreme Court penalizing former Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy for attacking a Judge.

Now, what exactly did Badoy say?

While the Supreme Court decision reproduced significantly more of the text and language to highlight the exact passages which crossed over into unprotected speech, for the purposes of this discussion, further spreading and reproducing the harmful speech would be counterproductive.

Briefly. On Sept. 23, 2022, Badoy called the judge a “friend” and “true ally” of the CPP-NPA, calling the decision propaganda mere material that may have been written by the group and not by reason of the rule of law.

Essentially, that our judicial system is being controlled by puppet strings and shadowy players. Worse, she goes further to say that, hypothetically, she should not be punished for taking the life of the judge if she can invoke general ideological beliefs. The criticism was red-tagging, which is violative of local and international laws.

A single brief excerpt of the posts is below, showing what Badoy attempted to pass as criticism.

“So if I kill this judge and I do so out of my political belief that all allies of the CPP NPA NDF (National Democratic Front) must be killed because there is no difference in my mind between a member of the CPP NPA NDF and their friends, then please be lenient with me,” Badoy posted on Sept. 24.

Again, Badoy was well within her rights to disagree with the decision.

However, she went further – questioning whether the decision was written by the judge, backed by the Constitution, or if the decision was even a valid exercise of judicial authority.

She asserted the decision was illegitimate for being a product of puppet writers and undue influence, as if the court itself was a farce.

Taken together with the reactions they drew, her words were tantamount to a call for violence against the bench and the judge, possibly with very real repercussions in the real world.

It was not a stretch for Judge Magdoza-Malagar to fear for her safety, it was a stretch for Badoy to imagine that the consequences of her post were limited to the four corners of a screen.

For me and my co-author, Ally Munda, our Constitutionally protected rights come with a disclaimer – these cannot be wielded haphazardly, to the detriment of everyone else around you. After all, one’s rights end where another’s begin.

The toes that Badoy have stepped on belong to the Court and this offense was not slight in character, it was a stab at the very integrity of the courts that Filipinos must have to be assured the rule of law still prevails.

It was a two-fold transgression – first, against the safety of Judge MagdozaMalagar and, second, against the integrity of our courts themselves.

On Sept. 27, the first case began.

Under A.M. 22-09-16-SC, the Court, acting motu proprio, which is without an official request from another party, took the initiative to address the acts of Badoy. It resulted in a stern warning that Badoy and others who use social media to incite violence against the court and judges will be dealt with by holding them in contempt of court.

—“—

After full court deliberations, the Supreme Court issued a resolution sternly warning those “who continue to incite violence through social media and other means which endanger the lives of judges and their families.”

A Show Cause Order was also issued, which required Badoy to explain why she should not be penalized for her posts.

The second case was an Urgent Petition for Indirect Contempt filed by lawyers

Roico V. Domingo, Dean Antonio Gabriel M. La Viña, Dean Ma. Soleded DeriquitoMawis, Dean Anna Maria D. Abad, Dean Rodel A. Taton, Artemio P. Calumpong, Christianne Grace F. Salonga, Ray Paolo J. Santiago, and Ayn Ruth Z. TolentinoAzarcon.

Freedom of speech, while sacrosanct, finds its limits at the doorstep of responsibility. Ultimately, Badoy was held liable for Indirect Contempt of Court and fined P30,000.00 for her injurious acts against the bench and the judiciary.

The Court’s decision underscores a broader principle that we, as responsible members of society, should remember: the freedom of speech and the freedom to critique the actions of those in power does not extend to actions that would imperil the judiciary’s ability to deliver impartial justice.

Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: Tony La Viña or tonylavs X: tonylavs

Preventing long-term extreme heat from disrupting education

By Ryan Lufkin

IMAGINE sweltering classrooms exceeding 42°C, making it impossible for students to concentrate or learn.

This is the harsh reality for over 3.6 million Filipino students who have been forced out of their classrooms due to the scorching heat.

Last month alone, extreme temperatures forced over 5,000 schools to suspend face-to-face classes.

The situation is not unique; this is a global issue. Schools in the US, China, India, and other countries are also grappling with challenges due to heat waves.

Building on this global concern, studies have shown when temperatures go up, student performance goes down.

A 2020 study revealed students scored lower on standardized tests on extremely hot days, making it difficult for them to focus and retain information.

In 2023, academics from Harvard University also found high temperatures worsen absenteeism and student disciplinary reports, particularly in schools lacking proper air conditioning.

These studies paint a grim reality for students from low-income families, particularly in the Philippines, who are more likely to attend schools lacking proper air conditioning and ventilation.

As temperatures become more harsh and intense, these students’ health, so-

cial, and emotional well-being are also at risk.

This unequal burden exposes a troubling truth: climate change amplifies existing educational disparities. Teachers are no less affected. A survey by the Alliance of Concerned Teachers showed around 67 percent of public school teachers reported finding the heat in their classrooms intolerable, hindering their ability to provide highquality education.

To address this scorching issue, education authorities have implemented a change in the academic calendar to shift back to the old school calendar of June-March from the current AugustMay calendar, and some schools and universities have allowed their teachers to move their classes to the online model during extremely hot days.

Rewarding Balikatan 2024

in forward operating areas.

IN THE main, the annual military exercises Balikatan between the Philippines and the United States involving more than 16,000 troops, which officially ended May 10, have been successful.

The 19-day exercises, which began on April 22, have strengthened interoperability and cooperation between the two allies through joint training, exercises and humanitarian assistance, and enhanced military cooperation and readiness between their armed forces.

Freedom of speech, while sacrosanct, finds its limits at the doorstep of responsibility —“—

While there are many preventative measures to combat the heat and its negative impact on education, the truth is the temperature in 2024 and the years to come is only expected to get worse. We need long-term solutions that create a more resilient education system for the future.

Four years ago, the pandemic tested educational institutions and put them under pressure to ensure continuity of education. Students worldwide were left at a disadvantage in different ways. Some were left at a disadvantage because their school or university didn’t

The Balikatan exercises directly support the US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty by ensuring the forces are tactically proficient, that capabilities and modernization efforts are mutually compatible, by strengthening militaryto-military coordination.

During Balikatan, three C-130Js were dispatched to different locations from the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam to help strengthen interoperability and cooperation, which demonstrated the ability to rapidly deploy a Marine unit into a remote island location and immediately offloaded thousands of gallons

of fuel. Not only did this assist the Joint Force in commencing operations, but eliminated the requirement for ships to bring fuel into a port.

Philippine and US troops fired missiles and artillery to thwart a simulated invasion in the Philippines’ northern waters facing Taiwan in a show of military force

One C-130J departed from Guam flying directly to Lal-Lo Airfield in Cagayan, then moved the unit and fuel to Basco Airfield on Batan Island up north, 238 miles or 383 kms from Taiwan, setting a record for the largest aircraft to ever land at the airfield.

The other aircraft staged out of Kadena Air Base, Japan, transported fuel directly into the small island.

In Basco, the Marines set up Specialized Fueling Operations at Forward Area Refueling Points, which serve as key refueling sites near the front lines or

During the last week, Philippine and US troops, opens new tab fired missiles and artillery to thwart a simulated invasion in the Philippines’ northern waters facing Taiwan in a show of military force and strengthening ties as regional tensions rise.

About 200 soldiers took turns defending the shores of the provincial coastal city of Laoag in Ilocos Norte, launching Javelin missiles and firing howitzers and machine guns to repel an unnamed enemy trying to storm the beach. US and Filipino military personnel sank five floating pontoons standing in for amphibious landing ships as part of their annual exercises.

The exercises have irked China, which has warned of destabilization when countries outside the region “flex muscles and stoke confrontation.”

But China itself has not stopped its coast guard vessels and militia to harass Philippine vessels during clearly humanitarian reasons, and only last week, Manila accused Beijing of using water cannons against Filipino vessels around the disputed Scarborough Shoal, which damaged naval vessels and injured people onboard.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has said the Philippines would not retaliate in kind, saying the Philippines did not want to raise tensions.

For US veteran, D-Day memories still vivid after 80 years

CAROL STREAM United States – Richard Rung recalls it vividly: German artillery firing on his landing craft, the sound of machine gun bullets striking the vessel, blood mixed with seawater on the deck, troops crying on the beach.

It has been nearly eight decades since Rung landed in France on D-Day -- June 6, 1944 -- as a 19-year-old US Navy sailor, part of a massive amphibious invasion that broke through German coastal defenses in a key victory for Allied forces.

He now lives in a suburb of Chicago with Dorothy, his wife of 75 years, but his memories of the violence and death he witnessed half a world away are still clear, and that distant day can still feel close at hand.

“D-Day is not always, you know, a long way off,” said Rung, a gray-haired, mustachioed 99-year-old wearing a blue jacket with the US Navy emblem.

“Sometimes, it’s yesterday,” he said. “When you have these experiences, they come back to you if you get a right situation.”

Rung’s path to Normandy began when he was drafted in 1943, choosing the Navy on the advice of his father, who urged him to “take the Navy. At least you’ll be at sea, you have something to eat.”

He dreamed of serving on a destroyer, but was assigned to maintain the engine on a landing craft because of his knowledge of motors gained in vocational school -- a turn of events that brought him to France.

Rung trained in the United States and then traveled by ship to Britain, where he witnessed German planes bombing London.

“Every night, they were raided,” he said.

have a Learning Management System or any technology to support remote learning during the closures, and others did not have a computer at home or Internet access.

We must future-proof the educational system by embracing a technology-enhanced learning approach

While everyone worldwide was dealing with the same crisis, the consequences today include years of learning loss that varies from country to country, and the alarming disparities in technology and Internet access brought to the surface by COVID-19, have not been resolved.

After crossing the English Channel, Rung’s landing craft hit Omaha Beach as part of the second wave on D-Day, coming under heavy German artillery and machine gun fire.

“We dropped the ramp at 7:30... and they opened up on us,” he said.

Despite the danger, he tried to see what was unfolding -- to his skipper’s chagrin.

“He looked down and he said, ‘Dick, get down!’ I wanted to see,” said Rung, who remembered hearing bullets hitting the side of the landing craft as he looked at the beach.

After more than two months in Normandy, Richard Rung was sent to the Pacific... was at Leyte Harbor in the Philippines when Japan formally surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945

“The machine guns were terrible,” he said. “I’ll never forget the machine guns.”

The ship’s log -- copied in Rung’s diary -- provides a clipped, military account of the landing.

“0730 Hit beach. It being well guarded received two shells from 88mm. One in starboard locker, one in skipper’s quarters, one 47mm hole in starboard bulwark. Two soldiers killed two badly hurt. One 47mm through port ramp extension.”

As we face a new challenge with the long-term trend of climate change worsening education inequality, technologyenhanced learning must evolve from being optional and expected to be used for emergencies to a necessity to be embraced regularly. Schools and universities need to adopt fully-featured learning management systems with mobile online and offline features to ensure the continuity of education and provide the necessary flexibility to adapt to the worsening impacts of climate change and different recurrent events that can interrupt access to education.

While a university may have a suitable LMS, the challenge of having all faculty on board and ready to switch from one day to another depends on how much they are teaching out of the LMS in the classroom and having all the course content properly designed and uploaded into the platform to be ready for the students when needed.

Four minutes later, the landing craft pulled back and went in search of a better site, but other spots were also heavily guarded.

Finding a location and unloading the vessel took hours, but that mission had to be completed before the wounded could be taken to a hospital ship.

Rung said the landing craft’s deck was “flowing in blood” from troops who were hit mixed with seawater that entered when the ramp was lowered, which crew members had to clean off later in the day. He also recalled seeing the bodies of fallen troops and “guys... crying on the beach. It was terrible.”

The landing craft carried a bulldozer for mine-clearing, but “he never made it,” Rung said. “He got to the beach -- I found this out the next morning -- he hit a mine.”

“If they didn’t get hit with a rifle, (they) could easily step on a mine,” he said. Two days after D-Day, Rung made a gruesome discovery while ashore.

“That’s when I found this big pile of arms and legs,” he said, wondering how it would be possible to identify someone from those remains.

After more than two months in Normandy, Rung was sent to the Pacific, and was at Leyte Harbor in the Philippines when Japan formally surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945.

“Nobody can imagine what a great feeling it gave us to see and know that the war was over and that the thing we have been fighting so long and hard for had finally come to pass,” he wrote in his diary. Rung was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1946, going to college with funding from the GI Bill and later teaching history and political science as a professor. AFP

We must future-proof the educational system by embracing a technology-enhanced learning approach.

This requires a robust infrastructure to support remote learning, continued investment in resilient physical classrooms with proper ventilation and cooling, and targeted initiatives to bridge the digital divide and ensure all students, regardless of background, have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive.

The future of education hinges on our ability to adapt and empower teachers to succeed in this new learning landscape while simultaneously addressing and helping reduce existing educational disparities.

(The author is the Vice President of Global Academic Strategy at Instructure, and has advocated the use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the teaching and learning experience.)

UN agency says closing east Jerusalem HQ

JERUSALEM – The UN agency for Palestinian refugees said Thursday it was temporarily shuttering its east Jerusalem headquarters after “Israeli extremists” set fire to the perimeter following weeks of repeated attacks.

“This evening, Israeli residents set fire twice to the perimeter of the UNRWA headquarters in occupied east Jerusalem,” agency chief Philippe Lazzarini said on X, formerly Twitter, lamenting that it was the second attack on the compound in a matter of days.

He described how “a crowd accompanied by armed men were witnessed outside the compound chanting ‘Burn down the United Nations’.”

UNRWA and staff from other UN agencies at the time were on the compound, which has on its grounds petrol and diesel stations for a fleet of UN cars.

“While there were no casualties among our staff, the fire caused extensive damage to the outdoor areas,” Lazzarini said, adding that UNRWA staff had put out the fire themselves.

The attack came after two months of “Israeli extremists staging protests outside the UNRWA compound”, he said, adding that one protest earlier this week “became violent when demonstrators threw stones at UN staff and at the buildings of the compound”.

Thursday’s arson attempts marked “an outrageous development”, Lazzarini said. “Once again, the lives of UN staff were at a serious risk”.

“In light of this second appalling incident in less than a week, I have taken the decision to close down our compound until proper security is restored.”

The UNRWA chief lamented that “over the past months, UN staff have regularly been subjected to harassment and intimidation”. AFP

Israel strikes Gaza after truce talks end in Cairo

PALESTINIAN Territories – Israel launched fresh strikes in the Gaza Strip Friday after negotiators pursuing a long-stalled truce agreement left talks in Cairo without having secured a deal.

AFP journalists in the Gaza Strip early Friday witnessed artillery strikes on Rafah on the territory’s southern border with Egypt, while witnesses reported air strikes and fighting in Gaza City further north.

Israeli and Hamas negotiating teams left Cairo Thursday after what the Egyptian hosts described as a “twoday round” of indirect negotiations on the terms of a Gaza truce, according to Egyptian intelligence-linked Al-Qahera News.

Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip and whose unprecedented October 7 attacks on Israel sparked the war there, said its delegation had left for Qatar, home to the Palestinian militant group’s political leadership.

“The negotiating delegation left Cairo heading to Doha. In practice, the occupation (Israel) rejected the proposal

Seoul to allow foreign doctors as junior medics strike drags on

SEOUL – South Korea will allow foreign doctors to work in its hospitals after a rigorous vetting process, the prime minister said Friday, as a months-long strike by junior medics shows no sign of resolution.

Thousands stopped working on Feb. 20 to protest government plans to train more doctors, causing chaos in hospitals.

The government, which has already offered some concessions in a bid to end the standoff, said this week that doctors with foreign medical licenses would be allowed to practice in the country, in a bid to ease service disruptions.

After the move was announced, the head of the Korean Medical Association, Lim Hyun-taek, shared a screenshot of a news report on newly graduated Somali doctors with the comment: “Coming Soon.”

The post, which was later removed, prompted widespread online criticism, and was highly inappropriate and “clearly racist,” Kim Jae-heon, the secretary-general of an NGO advocating free medical care, told AFP.

The post “exploited Islamophobia and stereotyping against developing countries”, he said.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said Friday the government will make sure to “have a thorough safety system to prevent unqualified doctors (with foreign licences) from treating our people”.

The government is locked in a protracted standoff with the junior doctors, who have refused to return to their hospitals, despite the health ministry offering last month to scale back proposed medical training reforms for 2025. AFP

submitted by the mediators and raised objections to it on several central issues,” Hamas said in a message to other Palestinian factions, adding it stood by the proposal.

“Accordingly, the ball is now completely in the hands of the occupation.”

Hamas had said Monday that it had accepted a ceasefire proposal put forward by mediators.

The deal, the group said, involved a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the return of Palestinians displaced by the war, and the exchange of hostages held by militants for Palestinian prisoners detained in Israel, with the aim of a “permanent ceasefire.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office at the time called the proposal “far from Israel’s essential demands”, but said the government would still send negotiators to Cairo.

Israel has long resisted the idea of a permanent ceasefire, insisting it must finish the job of dismantling Hamas.

Mediator Egypt said the two sides must show “flexibility” in order to strike a deal for a ceasefire and hostageprisoner exchange in the seven-month war, according to a foreign ministry statement. AFP

IN BRIEF

Heatstroke kills 61 in Thailand so far

BANGKOK – Heatstroke has killed 61 people in Thailand so far this year, more than in all of 2023, the health ministry said on Friday after weeks of scorching weather across the region.

A wave of exceptionally hot weather blasted Thailand in recent weeks, prompting authorities to issue warnings about scorching hot weather on a near-daily basis.

The health ministry said Friday 61 people have died from heatstroke since the beginning of 2024, compared with 37 in the whole of 2023.

Thailand’s northeast -- the agricultural heartland -- saw the highest number of deaths, the ministry said.

Scientists have long warned humaninduced climate change will produce more frequent, longer and more intense heatwaves.

While the El Nino phenomenon is helping drive this year’s exceptionally warm weather, Asia is also warming faster than the global average, according to the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization.

Apichart Vachiraphan, deputy of Thailand’s Department of Disease Control, warned people with underlying medical conditions to limit their time outdoors. AFP

From USSR to NATO, Albania showcases past

BERZHITE, Albania – A museum offering an unprecedented dive into Albania’s dramatic military history has opened its doors, telling the story of how the oncereclusive country broke with its 40-year Communist past.

The Albanian army museum in Berzhite, near the capital Tirana, showcases everything from Soviet tanks and Chinese torpedo launchers to home-made weapons and NATO flags.

“It is a public space which tells the political history of the country through the history of the Albanian army,” said museum director Arben Skenderi.

Once nicknamed Europe’s “North Korea”, the small Balkan country was shunned by much of the world under Communist dictator Enver Hoxha. He forged close ties with the Soviet Union and China before falling out over their supposed deviation from true Marxism. The country embraced the West after the fall of the communist regime in 1990 and, 30 years later, is part of NATO and hoping to become a European Union member.

More than 80 percent of the weapons shown at the museum belong to the era of the Communist dictatorship, between 1945 and 1990, and include Soviet and Chinese battle tanks and a Chinese torpedo launcher. AFP

Daniels denies cashing in on claimed tryst with Trump

NEW YORK – Stormy Daniels finished her marathon testimony at Donald Trump’s hush money trial on Thursday with attorneys for the former president seeking to paint her as a greedy liar who profited from her allegations.

The X-rated film actress, who claims to have had sex with the married Trump in 2006, denied that she threatened the tycoon if he did not buy her silence. “I wanted the truth to come out... to get my story protected with a paper trail so that my family didn’t get hurt,” the 45-year-old Daniels said during aggressive cross-examination by Trump’s attorney Susan Necheles. Trump, 77, is accused of falsifying business records to reimburse his lawyer, Michael Cohen, for a $130,000 payment to Daniels on the eve of the 2016 presidential election,

when the story could have proved politically fatal.

The face-off between Daniels and Team Trump took place six months before the November election, when the Republican hopeful will try to defeat Democratic President Joe Biden.

During nearly eight hours of testimony over two days, Daniels walked the New York jury through the onenight stand she said she had with Trump at a celebrity golf tournament, and then the financial settlement she says ensued.

On Thursday, Trump’s lawyers suggested Daniels was out for the money. They accused her of appearing at strip club events promoted with a picture of Trump and the tagline “Making America Horny Again.”

“I never used that tagline -- I hated it,” said Daniels who wore a green

dress and a long, hooded black cardigan, her hair loose and her cadence confident.

In her testimony Tuesday, she described Trump’s pajamas, his boxer shorts, the sexual position and that he did not wear a condom. And while she was “not threatened verbally or physically” she said she “felt ashamed I didn’t stop it, didn’t say no.” These were details the defense argued were irrelevant to the case -but which they doubled down on and repeated frequently during crossexamination.

Trump has denied having sex with Daniels and his lawyers on Tuesday asked the judge for a mistrial on

WARTIME VICTORY.

SPORTS

Nadal wants to lose injury fear after Rome opening win

ROME—Rafael Nadal said that he can no longer afford to fear injury after battling into the second round of the Rome Open on Thursday, with Roland Garros looming on the horizon.

Clay court icon Nadal bounced back from a set down to beat qualifier Zizou Bergs 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the Italian capital with a gritty performance which will need to be improved upon when the Spaniard faces his next opponent, world number nine Hubert Hurkacz. Should he progress further Nadal also has last year’s winner, world number four Daniil Medvedev, and the beaten finalist Holger Rune on his side of the draw.

The 37-year-old took nearly three hours to see off Belgian Bergs as he continued his comeback and bid to play at Roland Garros, most likely for the last time.

Nadal has in recent times been a shadow of the player who has won 22 Grand Slams in a storied career which has also brought a record 10 titles in Rome, being battered by injuries and dropping down to 305 in the world rankings after missing almost all of last year.

“I have Roland Garros in just two weeks and a half... I need to prove myself if I am able to push my body to the limit, I need to push to feel myself ready for what’s coming,” Nadal told reporters.

“I am not talking only about Roland Garros. I am talking about the next match. I need to lose this fear. Matches like today help.

“Some moments I was moving faster. Some moments not. I need to get used to that, to take that risk... I feel more ready to try it than before.”

Nadal has said that he will only play at the French Open, where he has won 14 times, if he feels competitive and although he showed glimpses of his old self against 108th-ranked Bergs he struggled on his serve and looked a long way from Grand Slam standard.

Outsider Bergs, 24, is an eight-time title winner on the Challenger tour and had in previous tournaments taken sets off high-profile players like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Rune.

The hard-hitting Belgian pushed his big-name rival all the way, briefly looking like he might win the biggest match of his career to date before Nadal fought back to take victory. AFP

Lady Bulldogs, Tigresses start championship clash

NATIONAL University and University of Santo Tomas open their UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball Finals series at 4 p.m. today (Saturday) at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Bulldogs and the Tigresses, who finished 1-2 in the eliminations, split their head-tohead this season.

Coaches Norman Miguel and Kungfu Reyes are working double time in training before the opener, with the utmost importance of winning Game 1 to gain a huge psychological advantage in the series.

NU had a short preparation, as it needed to beat Far Eastern University twice in the Final Four to reach the championship round for the third straight year.

UST, on the other hand, unseated

De La Salle in one game, in a fiveset thriller to secure its first Finals

Shopwise bikefest gears up for huge turnout

THE Shopwise Bike Fest has surged with overwhelming anticipation, drawing in more than 2,000 eager participants a full eight days prior to its inaugural staging on May 19 at Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus City, Cavite. This impressive turnout underscores the unwavering enthusiasm and robust support from bikers spanning diverse backgrounds, all rallying behind the noble cause of championing a healthy and active lifestyle.

The event boasts an array of divisions tailored to suit every rider’s skill level and preference with the bulk of registrants vying in the 30km, 45km and 60km individual and corporate Open divisions. Additionally, the inclusion of categories catering to youngsters aged 2 to 15 reflects a concerted effort to foster a love for cycling from an early age, ensuring inclusivity for all.

Registration is ongoing. For details, visit the event’s official website shopwise.bikefest.com.ph or follow Shopwise on social media platforms www. facebook.com/ShopwiseSupercenters or www.instagram.com/shopwise.ph.

In a bid to heighten the excitement surrounding the event, an immersive expo will be hosted at the Ayala Mall Circuit, Activity Center in Makati from May 15 to 17 where participants will have the opportunity to procure their ride kits, complete with an exclusive Shopwise bike jersey and participation bib.

Mayor Alex Advincula has also reaffirmed the city’s commitment to bolstering the event’s success. With Vermosa solidifying its reputation as the venue for such endeavors, courtesy of its recent hosting of Cycle PH for the second straight year, participants can expect nothing short of enjoyment and excellence.

stint since 2019.

“Siyempre nauna nga kami sa Finals so hinintay namin ‘yung game nila sabi nga namin kahit sino naman ang manalo diyan naka-ready naman kami,” said Reyes.

“We will play against a more veteran team sa amin ini-embrace naman namin ‘yun,” he added.

Powered by super rookie Angge Poyos and lefty sensation Jonna Perdido, the Tigresses went deeper this season by showing no fear in their game despite any disadvantages stacked against them.

“May series naman kami ng preseason tournament I think those leagues nakakatulong din especially

itong UAAP ang haba ng liga nakarating kami ng Finals,” said Reyes.

“I think ito ‘yung maturity na dadalhin ng mga players, ‘yung experience saka iba ‘yung natake ng mga bata na naniniwala sila na talagang kaya nila ‘yun ang hindi namin pwedeng alisin o ni kahit sino na puwede nilang alisin sa mga bata na alam nilang kaya nila. ‘Yun ang isang pamato namin na naniniwala silang kaya nila kaya kami umabot hanggang dito sa dulo,” he added. UST is gunn ing for a 15th title and the first since 2010 when the Shaq delos Santos-mentored squad last ruled the league behind Aiza Maizo and Ange Tabaquero.

Delos Santos returned to the Tigresses this season as part of Reyes’ coaching staff.

An interesting fact is Miguel was one of Delos Santos’ assistants in the Tigresses’ most recent championship run.

The Lady Bulldogs, with Season 84 Rookie-MVP Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon leading the charge to regain the throne, hoping to capitalize on their championship experience.

“Hindi basta-basta ang character ng UST. Sinimulan namin sa scouting through videos then from there, yung technical skills na kailangan naming iwork out para ma-counter namin sila,” said Miguel.

“Yung UST palaban sila. Talagang yung hunger nila sa paglalaro, talagang makikita mo pag naglalaro sila. Pero siguro hindi namin ba-beybihin yung laro. Kumbaga, ibibigay namin yung 100 percent effort namin para manalo and para mapahirapan sila,” said Belen.

Filipinas U-17 team falls to North Koreans

Junior golfers set sights on JPGT

WITH the dawn of the Junior Philippine Golf Tour looming, young golfers are abuzz with anticipation, their excitement evident as they eagerly await the opening tee-off on Tuesday (May 14) at Splendido Taal Golf Club in Laurel, Batangas.

Crafted to be the ultimate proving ground for the nation’s budding golf stars, the circuit is more than just a series of tournaments, but a stage where dreams take flight and talents are forged under pressure. In the lead-up to the event, these young athletes have immersed themselves in rigorous training, polishing every aspect of their game. Whether it’s perfecting the long game, mastering delicate chip shots, or honing their precision on the putting green, each golfer is relentlessly pursuing excellence.

Mona Sarines, a finalist in the girls’ 1112 division from the previous year’s inau-

gurals that featured drive-chip-and-putt competition, shares her preparation mantra: “I’m focusing on refining my short game and strategic course management to ensure I’m at my best when it counts.”

The PGT circuit promises a thrilling spectacle across multiple age divisions. From the veterans of the 15-18 category to the up-andcoming talents in the younger brackets, every player is primed to showcase their skills over the grueling rounds ahead.

Set apart from other junior golf organizations, the JPGT, organized by the Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and sponsored by ICTSI, represents a new frontier for young golfers. With a commitment to minimizing scheduling conflicts and maximizing opportunities for growth, it’s a platform designed to nurture talent and foster camaraderie among competitors.

Javie Bautista, riding high on a wave of recent victories, emerges as a stand-

By Peter Atencio

THE Filipinas’ Under-17 team absorbed their first loss in the 2024 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup after suffering a 0- 6 rout at the hands of North Korea on Thursday at the Bali United Training C enter in Indonesia.

The North Koreans took charge early when Jon Il-Chong scored in the 17th and 27th minutes.

This put the North Koreans in the solo lead of Group A with their second straight triumph.

Kang Ryu-Mi sent the ball to the back of the net for a 2-0 edge in the 24th minute.

After that, Pak Il-Sim gave the North Koreans a four-goal edge in the 31st minute.

The defeat sent the Filipinas U-17 squad sliding down to second place in Group A with their 1-0-1 win-drawloss record.

success

out contender in the boys’ 11-14 category. With a string of wins both at home and abroad, the Ateneo standout is poised to make his mark in the circuit and cement his status as a rising star in Philippine golf.

With his school obligations behind him, top contender Race Manhit is maximizing every moment to fine-tune his game for the upcoming campaign. Recognizing the constraints on his practice time, he has prioritized polishing his short game, knowing full well that precision around the green will be crucial on longer yardages this year.

“Just finished school, so practice is still limited. We focused on perfecting my short game since the yardage will be longer than last year,” said Manhit, who is also competing in the boys’ 11-14 category.

Exuding confidence and anticipation, Manhit is eager to test his skills against his peers, asserting his readiness to engage in fierce battles on the course.

Spain’s Rafael Nadal celebrates after winning his match against Belgium’s Zizou Bergs at the Men’s ATP Rome Open tennis tournament at Foro Italico in Rome. AFP

DEL MUNDO MAKES JR WORLD TILT. Kamilla Edrianna del Mundo

The Filipinas’ Under-17 team AFC

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Creamline guns for sweep, PVL tiara

ONE triumph does not crown a champion team, as Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses aptly emphasized: “The battle isn’t over yet. It’s just 1-0. We need to secure two wins, so there’s really no reason to celebrate just yet.”

Indeed, the best-of-three series for the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference title remains wide open. However, with the Cool Smashers’ 24-26, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16 victory over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Thursday, the momentum undeniably shifted in favor of the defending champions. After a shaky performance in the prelims and an initial setback against Choco Mucho in the semis, Creamline emerged as the slight underdog entering their 11th PVL Finals. Yet, the Cool Smashers showed unparalleled resolve and championship composure, rallying in three sets to clinch a morale-boosting triumph, positioning themselves on the cusp of a third consecutive AFC crown and eighth championship overall.

While acknowledging the significance of seizing Game One, Meneses emphasized the need for relentless dedication and unwavering focus.

“It’s important that we got Game One, but we need to buckle down and focus on the next game,” he said.

These words reverberated through the team’s locker room, grounding every player in the reality that their journey is far from complete. The championship may seem within reach, but it demands nothing less than absolute commitment and unyielding effort.

As they prepare for practice, the Cool Smashers are expected to don expressions of steely determination, knowing that every serve, spike and dive must be executed with precision and purpose. There are no shortcuts, more so, no room for complacency, especially against a formidable opponent like Choco Mucho.

Knott, Ho man, Venida take turns smashing PH records

By Peter Atencio

KRISTINA Knott, Lauren Hoffman and 18-year-old Fil-Kiwi

Mariele Venida set three new records on Friday in the 2024 ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships at the Philsports Track oval in Pasig.

The Olympian Knott ran a slower time in the women’s 100-meter finals, finishing in 11.51 seconds, and beating Nur Aisha Ali of Sabah and Angelyn Ortiz of Far Eastern University, who had clockings of 11.95 seconds and 12.05 seconds for second and third, respectively.

But in the morning heats, Knott eclipsed Lerma Bulaitan’s 24-year-old, hand-timed mark of 11.3 seconds with her 11.2 clocking.

“I felt I ran better this morning. It felt good. I got surprised by the hand time. I’m shocked,” said Knott, who won her second gold medal after taking the women’s 200-meter gold the previous day.

Hoffman, who is aiming for a seat in the Paris Olympics, broke the women’s 400-hurdles mark

for the fourth time this year, after she ran 55.92 seconds in the finals with Robyn Brown, who used to own the record two years ago at 56.44 seconds, taking second.

Brown settled for the silver in 57.27 seconds, while Josie Inemedo of University of the Philippine was third in 1:04.69.

Venida, an accounting student at the University of Auckland, ran the under-100 meter finals in 11.65 seconds.

Her time beat Kayla Richardson’s 11.70, set back in the 2015 Southeast Asian Games.

Nyadau Omilla of Sarawak was second in 11.95 seconds, with Isa Pangilinan of University of Santo Tomas finishing third in 12.44 seconds.

Green Archers stretch D League Aspirants’ Cup reign

THE PBA D League Aspirants’ Cup championship trophy will stay with EcoOil-La Salle.

The Green Archers dominated the Centro Escolar University Scorpions once again in Game 2 of their best-ofthree titular showdown, 96-66, Thursday night, in the process keeping the tournament championship for the third straight year.

CJ Austria picked up his rhythm early, hitting 10 points as EcoOil-La Salle set the tone of the rout right there and then, rolling to a 33-16 advantage after one quarter and was never challenged the rest of the way.

The three-peat champions kept the margin after two quarters as the Scorpions continued to struggle with their shots. CEU connected just 33 percent of its field goal in the first quarter and made just five of 23 attempts in the second period for a woeful 21 percent clip.

Without injured big man AbdulWahab Olusesi for the second straight

game, CEU had a tough time defending the middle against La Salle Nigerian center Henry Agunane, who repeatedly scored on dunks and easy shots.

In claiming their third straight title, EcoOil-La Salle finished the tournament without a loss in nine games.

It also became the second team to win three in a row after NLEX, which won four consecutive titles and six overall.

Austria finished with 19 points and had two steals in only 21 minutes of play. JC Macalalag had 17, Raven Cortez chipped in 12 and Agunanne added 10. Conference MVP Mike Phillips turned in a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

“First of all, I would like to thank the Lord for giving us this championship. We would like to thank the EcoOil management, the coaching staff and the players,” said La Salle assistant coach Gian Nazario.

“It’s nice to be in this position. ‘Yun naman ang end goal namin, to win the

championship. Hats off to CEU. They really had a great D-League run. They deserved to be in the finals and we’re appreciative that we grew together here in the D-League.”

Sebastian, Lavalle lead Padel Pilipinas PH Open winners

NADINE Sebastian and Jaric Lavalle topped the mixed beginners’ category, while Dale Montealto and Hamda Buamin ruled the intermediate division of the Padel Pilipinas Philippine Open’s culminating tournament recently at the padel facilities in Mandaluyong.

Tao Yee Tan and Bryan Saarenas won the mixed open division, with Lance Cañizares and Catrine Torp-Bjerrehus finishing second in the event held in partnership with Play Padel and Le Garde.

The 2nd half, held from May 2 to 5, featured matches under Mixed Beginners, Intermediate and Open categories. For the Mixed Beginners, Sebastian and Coach Lavalle emerged as champions.

“We’re really excited because we really trained hard for this,” said Sebastian, whose partner Lavalle praised padel as a

“great step for us from recreational and as beginners” in the sport.

“Amazing turnout and we’re happy to see more new faces joining the tournament,” said tournament director and coach Bryan Casao. “We have players from different levels and representing various nationalities.”

The open was held in two phases—from April 25 to 28 and May 2 to 5—with manytime tennis champion Johnny Arcilla teaming up with pro Joseph Serra winning the men’s final at the expense of Raymark Gulfo and Argil Lance Cañizares. Nigel Rimando and Vinz Toribio also topped the men’s intermediate class followed by the pair of Lemon Cruz and Bryan Saarenas in the first phase and Senator Pia Cayetano and Tao Yee Tan claimed the women’s open title.

2024 edition of the Batang PBA is

Games tomorrow (Sunday)

4 p.m. – Petro Gazz vs Chery Tiggo

6 p.m. – Creamline vs Choco Mucho

The top nishers

row)

Dustine Gaviño, Peach Orbe, Vinz Toribio, Anna Luz and Heinrich Gasacao; (second row)

Maxine Sebastian, Dennis Maglinas, Nadine Sebastian, Jaric Lavalle, Hamda Buamin, Catrine TorpBjeerrehus and LA Cañizares; (third row)

Qoqo Allian, Senator Pia Cayetano, Tao Yee Tan, Bryan Saarenas and Dale Montealto.

BOLTS BOOST SEMIS BID. Meralco’s Cliff Hodge beats two NLEX defenders as he scores with a layup in a PBA Season 48 Philippine Cup quarterfinal game on Friday evening at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. The Bolts won, 97-93, to zero in on a semifinal seat.

Kristina Knott runs a new record of 11.2 in the 100 meters.

“I think the conditions in the finals was much better than in the morning, when it was hot,” said Venida, who finished the heats in 11.73 seconds.

4.46%

Deficit-to-GDP ratio in Q1 of 2024

60.15%

Debt-to-GDP ratio in Q1 of 2024

61.05%

Debt-to-GDP ratio in Q1 of 2023

PH poised to sustain yearlong growth—DTI

THE latest gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate reflects the continued commitment of the Marcos administration to propel the country’s economic expansion this year, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual said Friday.

“Despite several challenges in the first quarter of 2024, our economic performance underscores our enduring resilience both domestically and internationally,” Pascual said following the Philippine Statistics Authority’s release of the latest GDP report for the first quarter of 2024.

The GDP registered a year-onyear growth of 5.7 percent in the first quarter, with notable contributions from the financial and insurance, wholesale and retail trade and manufacturing sectors.

The services sector reported 6.9-percent growth, while industry and agriculture, forestry and fishing grew 5.1 percent and 0.4 percent, respectively.

“These data signal the Philippine economy’s positive trajectory towards achieving a growth rate of 6.0 percent to 7.0 percent this year. The DTI is one of the major contributors to this growth, implementing key programs and actions to foster a robust business environment and fuel economic development,” the trade chief said.

He said the DTI is strategically contributing to the economic expansion by focusing on selected key areas. The upgrading, upskilling and upsizing of micro, small and medium enterprises are geared to boost their competitiveness and productivity, he said.

Pascual said the DTI is also at the forefront of enhancing manufacturing capabilities by facilitating technology adoption in line with Industry 4.0, encompassing smart manufacturing initiatives, skills development, and fostering industry innovation to improve production efficiency and global competitiveness.

Gov’t deficit, debt metrics improved in first quarter

THE Philippine government’s budget deficit and debt metrics improved in the first quarter of 2024 as the economy continued to expand, according to data released Friday by the Bureau of the Treasury.

“With the release of the Q1 2024 gross domestic product [GDP], which grew by 5.75 percent yearon-year, the national government’s fiscal deficit settled at 4.46 percent, compared with 4.82 percent for the same period in 2023,” the Treasury said in a statement.

The debt-to-GDP ratio was 60.15 percent in the first quarter, down from 61.05 percent a year ago and 60.10 percent at the end of 2023.

The government is projecting a full-year deficit of 5.6 percent of GDP in 2024, lower than 6.2 percent in 2023, in line with efforts to consolidate finances. The debt ratio is programmed at 60.3 percent under

the revised Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF).

Actual budget deficit in March narrowed to P195.9 billion from last year’s P210.3 billion on the back of an 11.3-percent year-on-year revenue growth and a 3.18-percent increase in government spending.

This led to a first-quarter budget gap of P272.6 billion, a slight increase of 0.65 percent from P270.9 billion recorded in the same period last year.

The government’s outstanding debt reached P14.93 trillion as of the endMarch 2024, down 1.67 percent from the previous month due to the net redemption of domestic government securities.

Data showed that of the total debt stock, 31.14 percent was external debt, while 68.86 percent represented domestic borrowings.

The government returned to the international capital markets on May 7, 2024 with a $2-billion dual-tranche offering of 10-year and 25-year fixedrate global bonds. The 25-year bonds will be issued under the Republic’s Sustainable Finance Framework, marking its fifth G3 ESG bond offering.

This transaction follows a series of bond issuances in 2022 and 2023, including a $1-billion 5.5year Sukuk in December 2023, a $3-billion triple-tranche bond offering in January 2023, a $2-billion triple-tranche bond offering in October 2022, a 70.1-billion-yen four-tranche Samurai bond offering in April 2022 and a $2.25 billion triple-tranche bond offering in March 2022.

HEALTHCARE GAPS. Supply-side healthcare and education limitations may undermine the impact of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the Philippine government’s flagship social protection program, according to a recent public webinar by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) which examined the impacts of the 4Ps. Two studies co-authored and presented by PIDS senior research fellow Michael Abrigo confirm that supply-side conditions have an important bearing on education- and health-seeking behaviors among households.

Money supply in PH sustained expansion to reach P17.2t in March—BSP

By Darwin G. Amojelar

DOMESTIC liquidity (M3) or money supply sustained its growth in March 2024, reflecting increased demand despite the high interest rates.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said M3 increased 5.7 percent year-on-year to about P17.2 trillion in March, faster than the 5.1-percent rise in February.

Data showed that on a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, M3 in March increased by about 0.9 percent from P16.9 trillion in February. It also went up from P16.3 trillion in March 2023.

The BSP said it would continue to ensure that domestic liquidity conditions remain consistent with the prevailing stance of monetary policy, in keeping with its price and financial stability objectives.

Domestic claims expanded 10.8 percent year-on-year in March from the revised 9.6 percent in the previous month.

Claims on the private sector grew 10.9 percent, faster than 10.3 in February with

the sustained expansion in bank lending to non-financial private corporations and households.

Net claims on the central government expanded 15 percent due to the decline in the deposits of the government with the BSP.

Net foreign assets (NFA) in peso terms rose 5 percent year-on-year in March from 3.6 percent in February. The BSP’s NFA grew by 6.2 percent.

Data showed banks’ NFA contracted due to higher bills payable.

Cosco Capital’s income climbed 10.4% to P3.4b in first quarter

By Jenniffer B. Austria

COSCO Capital Inc., the listed hold-

ing company of businessman Lucio

Co, said Friday its first-quarter net income grew 10.4 percent to P3.4 billion from P3.1 billion in the same period last year on strong performance across all businesses.

Cosco said the group continued to benefit from the sustained recovery of the domestic economy as consumer demand remained strong despite prevailing macroeconomic headwinds.

Cosco’s grocery retailing businesses, including Puregold Price Club Inc. and S&R Membership Shopping, accounted for 77 percent of the total net income.

This was followed by liquor distribution, commercial real estate development and other businesses.

The group’s grocery chain business posted a net income of P2.5 billion in the first quarter, up 3 percent from the same period last year as consolidated net sales rose 6.7 percent to P47.3 billion, driven by store expansion and higher comparative sales.

Cosco said Puregold’s sales growth was tempered by a decline in margins due to aggressive store expansion.

Liquor distribution business, under The Keepers Holdings Inc., recorded a 44-percent increase in net income to P604 million due to higher sales from imported brandy, spirits, wines and specialty beverages.

Revenues grew 16 percent to P3.36 billion on the back of a 19-percent increase in volume of cases sold during the period.

Commercial real estate segment registered P512 million in rental revenues, up 5 percent from last year’s level as tenant’s portfolio improved due to increased economic actives as well as resumption of full rental rates.

Cosco’s energy and mineral segment also posted revenues of P104 million, while net income reached P67 million.

Its specialty retail business under Office Warehouse Inc. recorded a 2-percent increase in net income to P29 million even as revenues dropped 5 percent to P527 million.

The share price of Cosco climbed 0.64 percent to close at P4.73 Friday.

Stocks plunge as investors turn cautious over GDP

PHILIPPINE stocks wrapped up the week in the red as investors turned cautious about the slower first-quarter economic growth rate largely due to prevailing high inflation and interest rates. The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index ended the week at 6,511.93, down 30.53 points, or 0.47 percent, while the broader all-shares index dropped 4.42 points, or 0.13 percent, to settle at 3,477.13.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said the dismal 5.7-percent first-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth, below the government’s target rate of 6 percent to 7 percent, weighed on investor sentiment.

“Given the dismal data, many investors opted to remain on the sidelines as market participation weakened with net turnover registering P3.37 billion,” Alviar said.

Sectoral indices ended mixed, with mining and oil and holding firms registering gains while property, services, financials and industrial recording losses. Meanwhile, growing hopes that the US Federal Reserve and other central banks are close to cutting interest rates helped push London and Frankfurt to records Friday, while Asian markets also chalked up healthy gains.

Traders tracked gains in New York and Europe as they cheered fresh US data indicating the labour market was beginning to soften, giving central bankers room to ease monetary policy. The forecast-beating figures showing that unemployment claims rose to their highest level since August followed last Friday’s news that far fewer new posts were created in April than expected.

Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

BCDA discloses plan to sell SCTEX stake to Metro Pacific

By Darwin G. Amojelar

STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said Friday it is open to selling its stake in the Subic Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) to Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), “if the price is right.”

“I was told that if the right price will be offered, then the government can consider it seriously,” BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang told reporters on the sidelines of Economic Journalists Association of the

Philippines-BCDA Clark Forum.

Bingcang said MPTC offered about P20 billion to buy BCDA’s stake in SCTEX.

“In order for us to consider that proposal, our balance of debt to JICA

[Japan International Cooperation Agency] is around P20 billion. So you want at least a minimum of that in order to be assured of paying the foreign lender. So, that will be the starting point,” Bingcang said. He said P20 billion represented just the capital.

“You want something for the government, for the public, and so more. Normally how much are the returns you would want when you have an investment made? So at least, you have 100 percent return or a double of your investment. So those are the numbers we are crunching right now,” he said.

Bingcang said the government’s negotiation team would hold a meeting next week for the possible sale of the government’s share in SCTEX “I hope they don’t take a hardline stance for the sake of public interest,” he said. The SCTEX, funded by JICA, is a 91-kilometer or 362 lane-km. expressway, stretching from Subic-Tipo to La Paz, Tarlac, connecting the special economic zones in Olongapo City, Subic and Clark to Tarlac City. The MPTC also offered to buy the government’s interest in the ManilaCavite Expressway (Cavitex) project for P2.5 billion.

Converge, Korean firm sign agreement to explore PH cloud market

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc. said it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with South Korea’s NAVER Cloud Corp. to explore the booming Philippine cloud market.

Under the partnership, the companies will work discuss and establish potential partnerships, leveraging NAVER Cloud’s expertise to deliver innovative cloud solutions for the specific needs of Filipino customers.

The company also plans to promote all-round cooperation for the digital transformation projects in the Phil-

ippines by utilizing NAVER Cloud’s innovative technology capabilities related to smart cities and business capabilities such as Large Language Model (LLM), Sovereign Cloud, WORKS (B2B communication tool) and Whale (browser-based web service integration platform).

“Our continuous leap to digital calls for advanced solutions that would support a technology-enabled lifestyle in a robust digital environment. We look forward to working with NAVER Cloud to discover ways how we can empower more custom-

EU DIALOGUE. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto (center) engages in a dialogue with key industry players from the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) and EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) on May 8, 2024 to discuss the country’s tax system and the Department of Finance (DOF)’s key priorities. Recto emphasized the Philippines’ openness to business and encouraged investors to participate in the ‘Build Better More’ infrastructure program.

Goldilocks bares expansion program, set to open 30 franchise-owned stores

GOLDILOCKS Bakeshop Inc., a part of the SM group’s portfolio investments, continues to drive expansion through partnerships as it rolls out an additional 30 franchise-owned stores in 2024. Goldilocks had 926 stores as of end-2023, including 360 franchisedowned stores.

“Each of our franchisees is deeply embedded in their communities, and this intimate local knowledge is crucial because it allows each bakeshop to feel less like a chain and more like a neighborhood store,” said Goldilocks chief operating officer Jerson Go Uy. The company said the business re-

lationship that Goldilocks grows with its partners often started with longstanding love and trust for the brand. Many Goldilocks franchise owners started out as loyal customers in their youth. Henry Gosyco has been a Goldilocks franchisee in Tacloban for 16 years, becoming a partner in 2008. He remembers his fondness for Goldilocks from his high school days.

“Since my high school days, I would eagerly request relatives traveling to Manila to bring home the classic mamon [a traditional Filipino sponge cake] and polvorón [similar to shortbread cookie],” said Gosyco.

ers through cutting-edge cloud technologies,” Converge chief executive and co-founder Dennis Anthony Uy said.

Yuwon Kim, chief executive of NAVER Cloud, said the Philippines is a high potential market for cloud and digital transformation business growth.

“With the signing of the MOU, we expect to contribute to the digital transformation of the Philippines,” Kim said.

“We will collaborate with Converge based on our capability in smart city

technologies and localized sovereign AI, sovereign cloud implementation to secure data sovereignty,” he said. NAVER Cloud is a part of NAVER’s affiliates, which is the largest Internet company in Korea, one of the world’s top tech companies.

Since launching its cloud platform in 2017 with 22 products, NAVER Cloud has expanded its product portfolio over 200 individual products, including those in IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, hybrid cloud, and provides the same level as global hyperscale cloud service provider. Darwin G. Amojelar

Yuchengco’s Bohol solar project starts installing panels

By Alena Mae S. Flores

RIZAL Green Energy Corp. (RGEC) of the Yuchengco Group, through its special purpose company Dagohoy Green Energy Corp. (DGEC), installed the inaugural solar panel array of its 27-megawatt Dagohoy solar power project (DSPP) in Barangays San Vicente and Sta. Cruz, Dagohoy, Bohol on May 9, 2024.

RGEC president Francisco Delfin Jr. expressed the company’s firm commitment in making DSPP the first utility-scale solar power facility in Bohol.

“Given the power supply shortage and the extreme heat we are presently experiencing, any additional power from decarbonized and renewable sources can only be timely for the

country, in terms of ensuring electricity supply and mitigating climate variability,” Delfin said. He said the project is an effort by PetroGreen Energy Corp. (PGEC) and its subsidiaries, as service contractors of the Department of Energy (DOE), in addressing interrelated power shortage and climate issues. PGEC, the renewable energy unit of publicly-listed PetroEnergy Resources Corp., is a joint venture with Japan’s Kyuden International Corporation. RGEC is a partnership between PGEC and TAISEI Corp. of Japan.

“This project is especially beneficial to Bohol province, which for a long time has been dependent on imported power from neighboring islands,” he said.

KUWAIT CAFÉ.

Goldilocks Bakeshop Inc., one of the most enduring and beloved Filipino brands in the SM Group’s portfolio investments, continues to drive expansion through partnerships as it rolls out an additional 30 franchise-owned stores in 2024. Goldilocks had 926 stores as

BUSINESS

Travelers asked to declare currencies in excess of limit

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) reminded travelers that failing to declare currency exceeding the limit or providing false information about the amount of Philippine peso or foreign currency they are carrying can result in the confiscation of the undeclared funds.

The BOC said in a statement any person who brings into or takes out of the Philippines foreign currency, in excess of $10,000 or its equivalent, is required to declare

Mining sector to drive green tech, job growth

THE country’s abundant mineral resources could fuel green technologies and create a wave of high-quality job opportunities for Filipinos once their full potential is realized, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan highlighted the underutilized but immense potential of the mining sector in a forum on revitalizing the Philippine mining industry on May 10.

Balisacan said there is room for significant growth despite the sector’s modest contribution to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) at 0.5 percent by end-2023.

Balisacan said only 0.17 percent of the country’s known mineral deposits have been developed for production. Employment in mining and quarrying remains low, constituting only 0.45 percent of total employment.

The majority of the country’s mineral exports are raw or unprocessed. This leads to foregone opportunities to leverage the country’s natural resources to produce the tools and technologies that sustainable and resilient economies demand.

“With abundant reserves of minerals vital for producing green technologies such as solar PVs [photovoltaic cells], wind turbines and electric vehicle batteries, the Philippines is strategically positioned to tap into global markets for these technologies and maximize the value derived from its mineral products,” Balisacan said.

the whole amount brought into or taken out of the Philippines in the electronic currencies declaration form (e-CDF). For Philippine currency, a per-

son may bring into or take out of the Philippines an amount not exceeding P50,000.

The BOC said amounts more than the limit require prior written authorization from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and declaration of the whole amount brought into or taken out of the Philippines in the e-CDF.

The BSP, however, permits the cross-border transfer of local currency exceeding the limit only for specific purposes such as testing/

calibration/configuration of money counting/sorting machines, numismatics (currency collection) and currency awareness.

The BOC said the BSP does not issue written authorization upon arrival or after confiscating excess peso.

“Violation of the rules on crossborder transfer of currencies or false deflation or non-deflation of Philippine or foreign currencies shall result to confiscation by customs authorities,” the BOC said.

Unpredictable rules hinder nickel industry growth—PNIA

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) said it received strong international interest in Philippine rare metals, particularly from the US, EU, Canada, Australia, Japan and China over the rising demand for critical minerals in clean technology.

It warned, however, that unpredictable regulations could hinder potential investments.

The industry cites the Fraser Institute’s 2021 ranking, placing the Philippines among the least attractive investment destinations due to policy concerns.

PNIA president Dante Bravo said in the recent mining summit that optimizing the trade of Philippine nickel requires a multi-faceted approach. Factors like nickel quality, processing capabilities, target markets, technology and pricing influence investment decisions.

“We need a thorough evaluation of these elements to maximize the economic potential of Philippine nickel,” he said.

PNIA pushed for a “whole-ofgovernment and whole-of-society approach” to create a more attractive investment environment. This includes streamlining policies, strategies, and action plans.

DTI seizes over P2-m substandard steel products in CALABARZON, NCR

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Friday it confiscated over P2.4 million worth of non-compliant steel products following several enforcement operations in the first four months of 2024.

The DTI, through its Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), confiscated 7,723 units of uncertified steel products after inspecting hardware stores in the CALABARZON Region on Feb. 27 and March 21 and in the National Capital Region on April 8.

Low carbon steel wires and deformed steel bars yielded the high-

Frasco endorses gastronomy tourism in Asia-Pacific region

DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT)

Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco underscored the growing importance of gastronomy tourism in the Asia Pacific region during the 3rd World Tourism Industry Conference (WTIC) in Seoul, Korea.

Frasco, who represented the Philippines as chair of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, highlighted the potential of food to drive economic growth and cultural exchange at WTIC on May 9.

The global forum coincided with the opening day of the Seoul International Travel Fair (SITF) 2024, happening from May 9 to 12, 2024.

Frasco addressed industry leaders, stressing Asia Pacific’s diverse culinary scene and its ability to attract tourists worldwide.

“Gastronomy tourism is not just

about indulging in delicious food; it also has immense economic and cultural benefits for the Asia-Pacific region. This form of tourism attracts food enthusiasts from all over the world, creating opportunities for local businesses, farmers, artisans, and the like. It stimulates job creation, promotes sustainable agriculture, and preserves culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations,” she said.

Frasco pointed to a 2023 Booking. com report stating that 34 percent of travelers prioritize food and dining experiences.

The report said the trend reflects a desire for authentic cultural immersion and supporting local communities. Food tourism fosters a deeper understanding of local traditions and enriches the travel experience.

est value among the products confiscated amounting to P1,591,300 and P866,500, respectively.

Substandard equal leg steel angle bars and steel wire nails were also among the items seized.

The FTEB said it monitored and inspected 289 retail firms, 41 of which were found with non-compliant products from January to April 2024.

This led to the issuance of notices of violation (NOV) that mandated them to explain within 48 hours.

DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the agency has been intensifying its

THE Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) concluded the four-day 56th Council meeting on May 9, 2024, with a focus on combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and ensuring the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture in Southeast Asia.

Held in Tagaytay City through the invitation of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the council acknowledged the ongoing efforts to combat IUU fishing and the progress made by SEAFDEC initiatives like the Regional Fishing Vessels Record (RFVR) Database, electronic ASEAN Catch Documentation Scheme (eACDS), and improved national capacities in port State measures (PSM).

SEAFDEC was commended for its preliminary results on stock assessments of IndoPacific king mackerel and narrow-barred Spanish mackerel.

The council recommended further discussions among ASEAN member states before endorsing the final results to ensure holistic management of these commercially important species.

The council alnso approved the revised “Regional Framework for Fishery Statistics of Southeast Asia (2024 Edition)” for implementation by SEAFDEC in compiling regional data starting in 2024. The improved framework is expected to

monitoring and enforcement efforts through the creation of Task Force Kalasag, which aims to crack down on uncertified consumer products, including substandard construction materials.

“We urge our consumers to be vigilant and to buy only certified products to ensure their safety,” Pascual said.

“The risk of accidents is substantially higher when you use substandard steel. Please don’t compromise the well-being of your family for price,” he said.

Pascual said the DTI, through its

enhance data collection and analysis.

The council recognized SEAFDEC’s crucial role in supporting member countries in responding to proposals for listing commercially exploited aquatic species under the Convention on International Trade in

equipped enforcers, is strictly monitoring and enforcing regulations against uncertified and substandard products in the market.

The DTI continues its nationwide campaign against the selling of noncompliant and uncertified products, which includes the enforcement of technical regulations mandating compliance with Philippine Standard Certification Mark Schemes in accordance with Department Administrative Order No. 02, Series of 2007 and the Consumer Act of the Philippines, he said.

It also urged SEAFDEC to continue capacity building activities to address challenges faced by member states, such as species identification and traceability.

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that DAGOHOY GREEN ENERGY CORPORATION is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as Renewable Energy Developer of Solar Energy Resources (27.518 MWp / 20.160 MWac Dagohoy Solar Power Project) in Brgys. San Vicente and Sta. Cruz, Municipality of Dagohoy, Province of Bohol to avail of the incentives under R.A. No. 9513, otherwise known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.

Any person with valid objection/s on the abovementioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication.

Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Othel V. Campos

AGRI TALKS. Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) lead convenor Sabin Aboitiz, president and chief executive of Aboitiz Group, together with the PSAC Agriculture Sector leaders meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Heroes Hall in Malacañan on May 8, 2024. The session covered significant areas including the coconut, sugar and tobacco industries as well as biotechnology regulations and agricultural export procedures.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, representing the Philippines as chair of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, attends the 3rd World Tourism Industry Conference (WTIC) and Business Luncheon on May 9, 2024 in Seoul, South Korea as one of the guest speakers. The global forum coincided with the opening day of the Seoul International Travel Fair (SITF) 2024 from May 9 to May 12, 2024.

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES,

Asst. Editor

By Jenniffer B. Austria

The bank booked a record net income of P2.8 billion in 2023, up 56 percent from P1.8 billion a year ago on the back of the strong growth in its core lending business.

March bank loans climbed

OUTSTANDING loans of universal and commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, grew 9.4 percent year-on-year in March 2024, outpacing the 8.6-percent expansion in February.

The BSP said that on a month-onmonth seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs, went up 1.3 percent.

Data showed that outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, increased by 9.5 percent in March to P11.45 tril-

lion. This was faster than the 8.7-percent increase in February.

Outstanding loans to non-residents also went up by 9.1 percent in March, after expanding by 6.5 percent in the previous month.

Both business and consumer loans grew at a faster pace in March, com-

Advanced Abilities launches one online policy hub to simplify insurance

ADVANCED Abilities Solution and Management Services Inc. said it is introducing Policymate, an all-in-one online policy hub to simplify insurance and make it more easily understandable and accessible, The startup said that with Policymate, users can experience a seamless and simplified process of purchasing insurance, filing claims and managing policies for themselves, families, pets, businesses or vehicles.

The insurance platform eliminates the lengthy paperwork and in-person visits as it adopts a digital-first approach, enabling customers to buy, manage and claim insurance online for a faster and more convenient process.

“At Advanced Abilities, it is important for us that Filipinos are able to safeguard their present lives and futures. Being in the industry since 1998, I’ve learned that simplifying the process of purchasing and claiming insurance will

encourage more people to be protected against risks. This is what we want to achieve with Policymate, to give Filipinos the peace of mind when it comes to those that matters most to them,” said Angelo Antonio Buendia, president and chief executive of Advanced Abilities.

Aside from a streamlined process, Advanced Abilities also teamed up with leading insurance providers Fortune General Insurance, Fortune Life, Liberty Insurance, Metropolitan Insurance, Malayan Insurance, Pacific Cross and Mercantile Insurance to bring users the best coverage options for any situation.

Policymate caters to a diverse set of users and provide tailored options depending on personal goals and financial capabilities. The platform was designed with a user-centric interface, making browsing for the right insurance plan easy and hassle-free with just a few clicks.

pared with February levels.

“Outstanding loans for production activities increased by 7.7 percent in March from 6.8 percent in February,” the BSP said.

This was mainly due to the rise in loans to major sectors particularly real estate activities (up 11.5 percent); electricity, gas, steam, and airconditioning supply (10.1 percent); wholesale and retail trade, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (6.6 percent); construction (18.3 percent); manufacturing (4.9 percent); and transportation and storage (14.3 percent).

Consumer loans to residents went up by 25.4 percent in March, coming from a growth of 25.2 percent in February, driven by the increase in credit card, motor vehicle and salary-based general purpose consumption loans.

Outstanding loans to non-residents also increased 9.1 percent in March to P342 billion.

“Looking ahead, the BSP will ensure that domestic liquidity and credit conditions remain in line with its price and financial stability objectives,” the BSP said.

COURTESY CALL. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto engages in a courtesy meeting with Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Lee Sang-hwa on May 3, 2024 to strengthen economic and investment cooperation between the two countries. Ambassador Lee affirmed Korea’s strong investment presence in the Philippines and expressed keen interest in the country’s reform measures, particularly the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act (CREATE MORE) bill.

Sumitomo Mitsui Bank economist expects PH growth to reach 6% in 2024

AN ECONOMIST of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC) said the Philippine economy is expected to achieve a 6-percent expansion in 2024 despite the slower growth in the first quarter.

“Based on the assumption that consumption will pick up in the second half of the year, I expect the Philippine economy to grow by 6 percent in 2024,” said Ryota Abe, economist at global markets and treasury department-Asia Pacific division at SMBC.

Abe issued the statement after the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that the gross domestic product grew 5.7 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024.

Abe said he also expects the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to ease its monetary policy going forward on the conditions that the US dollar does not strengthen further, the peso-dollar rate falls steadily to below the 58.0 level and inflation slows further.

“In the short term, domestic inflation is likely to face upward pressure mainly due to a rise in imported inflation on the back of a weakening PHP and rising commodity prices. However, it is expected to return to the target range steadily in the second half of the year due to base effect,” he said.

Meanwhile, Oxford Economics said it expects domestic demand in the Philippines to soften this year. It said while exports surprised to the upside, this was driven by the growth in

business services exports which tend to be volatile and was unlikely to be sustained.

“Overall, the Q1 GDP print is unlikely to affect our 2024 forecast of 5.2 percent significantly,” the UKbased organization said.

Oxford Economics said private consumption, a main pillar of the economy, slowed to 4.6 percent in the first quarter, reflecting a broad-based weakness across all major spending categories.

Ransomware payments jumped 500% in 2023 to about $2m per company

SOPHOS, a security solutions provider, recently released its annual “State of Ransomware 2024” survey report showing that the average ransom payment increased 500 percent last year.

Organizations that paid the ransom reported an average payment of $2 million, up from $400,000 in 2023.

“However, ransoms are just one part of the cost. Excluding ransoms, the survey found the average cost of recovery reached $2.73 million, an increase of almost $1 million since the $1.82 million that Sophos reported in 2023,” the company said.

This year’s survey indicates a slight reduction in the rate of ransomware attacks, with 59 percent of organizations being hit, compared with 66 percent in 2023.

It said that while the propensity to be hit by ransomware increases with revenue, even the smallest organizations (less than $10 million in revenue) are still regularly targeted, with just under half (47 percent) hit by ransomware in the past year.

The 2024 report also found that 63 percent of ransom demands were for $1 million or more, with 30 percent of demands for over $5 million, suggesting ransomware operators were seeking huge payoffs. Sophos said that these increased ransom amounts were not just for the highest-revenue organizations surveyed. Nearly half (46 percent) of organizations with revenue of less $50 million received a seven-figure ransom demand last year.

IN BRIEF

IPOPHL signs deal with French agency THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the French Patent and Trademarks Office (INPI) teamed up to carry out a cooperation agreement after signing a joint work plan that outlines capacity-building and information exchange activities aimed for completion by 2025.

The joint work plan is a followthrough of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) establishing a framework for collaboration in promoting IP creation, protection, utilization, management and enforcement.

It also emphasized strengthening IP application assessments, training IP professionals, and developing skilled personnel.

The work plan focuses on building IPOPHL’s patent mapping and analytics services. This will empower innovation-driven companies and startups in the Philippines by helping them identify their competitive edge in the market. Othel V. Campos

DOF amplifies call for innovative finance

THE Department of Finance (DOF) said it took part in a series of high-level discussions on the sidelines of the World Bank-International Monetary Fund (WB-IMF) Spring Meetings in Washington D.C. to amplify the Philippines’ call for innovative climate finance solutions.

The DOF and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on April 16, 2024 joined a roundtable discussion on the inaugural Vulnerable 20 Group of Finance Ministers (V20) Finance Ministers Governors Working Group Meeting.

It was established during the V20’s 11th Ministerial meeting in October 2023 in Marrakech. It aims to further the technical collaboration with V20 and G21 central banks, and mobilize resources from the IMF.

The DOF also participated in the High-Level Event on Addressing Polycrisis: Capital Mobilization for the V20 Climate Prosperity Agenda, which called for the strengthening of country platforms composed of domestic policymakers, international investors and technical experts who can facilitate the development of a nationally appropriate investment plan and an associated portfolio of investment projects.

BMI expects faster growth in next quarters

BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions, said it expects the Philippine economy to grow faster in the coming quarters after the gross domestic product expanded 5.7 percent in the first three months.

BMI said the first-quarter performance was consistent with its 6.2-percent full-year growth forecast for the Philippines. It said the unemployment rate eased from 4.5 percent in January to 3.9 percent in March, which should support household consumption.

“Labor market conditions have tightened, and we still expect looser monetary policy to lift economic activity over the coming quarters,” BMI said. It said while investments and household consumption slowed in the first quarter from high inflation and high interest rates, they are expected to rebound in the second half of 2024. “We expect the central bank to start easing in July, which would bring some small measure of relief,” it said.

TECH

World’s no. 1 Magic AI camera

phone HONOR Magic6 Pro here

LEADING global smartphone provider, HONOR, has finally unveiled its latest addition to the Magic Series, the HONOR Magic6 Pro, hailed as the No.1 Magic AI Camera Phone.

Priced at P59,999, the HONOR Magic6 Pro is now available for pre-order with freebies worth P11,699, a combination of the Harman Kardon Luna and HONOR Earbuds X3 from May 8 to May 17, 2024.

“We are proud to introduce to you the HONOR Magic6 Pro with the latest AI features and Falcon Camera System that wowed our fans and definitely will surprise more consumers in the tech industry,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

The Power of Magic with AI The HONOR Magic6 Pro incorporates two innovative features—Magic Capsule and Magic Portal—to enhance user interaction and productivity.

Magic Capsule expands upon tapping the notifications banner, delivering additional information and relevant options directly without the need to navigate multiple apps, thereby maximizing efficiency. Magic Portal harnesses AI to simplify tasks based on user behavior. For instance, it quickly recognizes addresses in messages and seamlessly integrates with Google Maps for effortless navigation. It also streamlines social media interactions, enabling easy sharing of booking details or search results with a simple drag-and-drop gesture. Moreover, Magic Portal enhances shopping experiences by guiding users to platforms where they can find and purchase desired items directly from images. Supported by partnerships with app developers, Magic Portal extends its capabilities across more than 100 globally popular apps, ensuring a seamless user experience and maximizing the potential of Magic Portal with users’ favorite applications.

Magic Capture: 180MP Tele-Falcon Camera

The HONOR Magic6 Pro has an impressive 180MP resolution coupled with a large F1.49-inch telephoto sensor, ensuring exceptional clarity for zoomed-in shots of distant subjects. The telephoto camera integrates innovative in-sensor zoom technology, supporting 2.5x optical zoom, seamless 5x/10x zoom, and an astounding 100x digital zoom.

The Magic6 Pro boasts a Super Dynamic Falcon Camera H9000 HDR sensor, delivering remarkable detail and brightness in various lighting scenarios. This sensor im-

proves dynamic range by 210%, ensuring vivid colors and well-preserved highlights, even in challenging conditions.

The Ultra-large Self-adjusting Aperture allows users to control depth of field from f/1.4 to f/2.0, catering to diverse photographic preferences, almost functioning like a DSLR Camera. This feature is particularly useful for capturing subjects in motion like athletes in crowded environments, enabling crisp subjectbackground separation.

Magic Screen: HONOR NanoCrystal Shield

The HONOR Magic6 Pro features the

innovative HONOR NanoCrystal Shield, delivering exceptional durability and stability. This shield is backed by SGS’s Five Star Overall Glass Drop Resistance Ability certification, validating its durability in various drop scenarios. The display utilizes advanced materials with a 50% increase in crystal density, resulting in a 10x improvement in shock absorption compared to standard glass. This means that the HONOR NanoCrystal Shield is ten times stronger than regular glass, offering unparalleled protection against accidental drops and impacts.

Furthermore, the Magic6 Pro is IP68

Converge stages 1st silent auction to nourish mothers, infants under Caritas Manila’s Unang Yakap program

IN anticipation of Mother’s Day, fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. through its woman-to-woman mentorship program held a silent auction of high value items donated by senior leaders, all in the name of giving underprivileged mothers and their infants the needed resources for their first thousand days under the program of Caritas Manila called Unang Yakap.

Pre-loved luxury goods and highgrade items were displayed for employees to peruse at the company office while the auction itself was conducted through an online platform. Shoes, bags, and clothing were up for auction at the event. Most of the items were donated by Converge President and Co-Founder Maria Grace Uy who championed the women mentorship program called “MentorSHE” and the first batch of mentors and mentees under the women leadership program. Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy also donated his slightly used branded shoes and polo shirts.

“At Converge, we strive to empower the communities through

GOOGLE’S Circle to Search feature lets you quickly look up anything you’re watching on your phone by encircling any visual element. It’s a huge step up from the days of switching between apps and interrupting your flow in the zone.

As it rolls out to more Android devices, you’re probably wondering the best ways to use this new method of searching on the internet. Here are a few tips to get you started:

● Spot it, shop it: Seen a swoon-worthy outfit or a musthave kitchen gadget online? Circle to Search has you covered. Simply activate it (long press the home button or navigation bar)

Employees bidded on luxury items such as these Prada pumps at a starting price of P2,000.

our services and our sustainability initiatives. The Unang Yakap auction is the commencement activity of the first batch of MentorSHE ladies. We are proud that our women leaders are taking steps to reach out to fellow women to ensure their welfare. However, our work is only beginning. Soon, we hope to also provide livelihood opportunities to these mothers in underprivileged communities,” said Converge President Grace Uy.

and circle the item. Like magic, you’ll see similar or even the exact product available for purchase from various online stores.

● Check the dictionary while in the zone: Ever stumbled upon an unfamiliar term in a video or article? No need to pause and search elsewhere. Highlight the word with Circle to Search and get instant definitions or explanations without breaking your stride.

● Elevate your travel game on the fly: Exploring a new city virtually and come across a breathtaking landmark? Just scribble over it with

Circle to Search to get instant information. No more time-consuming screenshots or endless scrolling through comments. Identify hidden gems and start building your dream itinerary in a flash.

● Circle to decide quick: Planning a dinner with friends? Compare restaurant options seamlessly with Circle to Search. Highlight a restaurant name in your text message and Circle to Search will display menus, photos, reviews, and location – all within your messaging app! No more app-hopping, just informed choices at your fingertips.

certified for water and dust resistance, ensuring reliable performance even in harsh conditions. Whether in outdoor adventures or facing accidental spills, this device is designed to withstand these challenges. The combination of the HONOR NanoCrystal Shield and IP68 rating guarantees the display remains intact and the device stays protected against daily wear and tear, ultimately enhancing its longevity and overall user experience.

Second Generation Silicon-carbon Battery and GPU Snapdragon 8

The Second-generation Silicon-carbon Battery boasts a far more concentration of power capacity, pushing the boundaries of battery capacity to an extraordinary 5600mAh. The 5600 mAh battery of the HONOR Magic6 Pro excels in low-temperature environments, allowing users to watch YouTube for 81 minutes at -20°C with 10% battery left. Plus, thanks to its 80W HONOR Wired SuperCharge and 66W HONOR Wireless SuperCharge, the phone charges fully in just 40 minutes, perfect for those on the go. When it comes to its performance, the HONOR Magic6 Pro runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform, boosting CPU performance by 30% and GPU performance by 25% compared to earlier models. With the Qualcomm® AI Engine, AI features on the Magic6 Pro are smooth and stable, showing a remarkable 98% improvement. This platform also offers outstanding gaming performance with excellent battery efficiency and innovative enhancements for powerful overall performance.

Grab your HONOR Magic6 Pro now available at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_M6Pro_PR, Shopee HONOR Magic6 Pro - Magic AI Camera Phone | Shopee Philippines and Tiktok Shop https://bit.ly/TikTok_ M6Pro_PR.

For more affordable offers, the HONOR Magic6 Pro is also available at Home Credit for as low as P1,719/month with the same FREEBIES of Harman Kardon Luna and HONOR Earbuds X3 worth P11,699. Take advantage of the offer at https://bit.ly/HONORPH_ HomeCredit. To know more about HONOR Magic6 Pro, head on to: https://bit.ly/ Web_M6Pro_PR.

The MentorSHE program is a woman-towoman mentorship training initiative in Converge organized by its Human Resources (HR) and Corporate Communications and Public Relations (CCPR) groups where senior women leaders serve as mentors to a younger set of female managers.

The Unang Yakap program of Caritas Manila, meanwhile, was created to support mothers and their infants from conception to up to two years old. To date, CaritasManila has launched the program in Metro Manila, some areas in Bulacan, Cavite, and Laguna. Converge VP and CCPR Head JayAnne Encarnado said that through the Unang Yakap auction, Converge is contributing to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals No. 2 (Zero Hunger) and No. 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing)

“This project is also aligned with the Sustainability Commitment of Converge, particularly on its pledge to create a positive community impact,” said Encarnado.

● Go beyond the basics: Circle to

Search isn’t just about quick answers. In select regions, it harnesses the power of AI to provide in-depth overviews. Curious about the Korean corn dog trend flooding your social media? Circle to Search can not only identify them but also tell you why they’re taking the internet by storm, using insights gathered from across the web. Circle to Search is now available for users of the Samsung Galaxy S24

Pro Processor. This intelligent chip acts like a human brain, meticulously analyzing every detail and referencing a vast database. It then optimizes the picture based on what it “sees,” delivering stunning visuals with vibrant colors, exceptional contrast, and crystal-clear clarity that rivals the real world.

C6 QLED Pro Series

Every 3rd cyber incident due to ransomware, says Kaspersky

AHEAD of International Anti-Ransomware Day on May 12, Kaspersky’s latest research reveals a concerning trend in the global cybersecurity landscape, with ransomware attacks accounting for every third cyber incident in 2023. The report sheds light on the escalating threat of targeted ransomware groups, which have seen a 30% increase globally compared to 2022, along with a 71% surge in known victims.

Kaspersky’s research, covering 2022 and 2023, revealed a worrisome escalation in targeted ransomware groups. The data indicated a staggering 30% global increase in the number of these groups compared to 2022, accompanied by a 71% surge in known victims of their attacks. Unlike random assaults, these targeted groups set their sights on government agencies, prominent organizations, and specific individuals within enterprises. As cybercriminals continue to orchestrate sophisticated and extensive

attacks, the threat to cybersecurity grows ever more pronounced. In 2023, Lockbit 3.0 emerged as the most prevalent ransomware, leveraging a builder leak in 2022 to spawn custom variants targeting organizations worldwide. BlackCat/ALPHV ranked second, until December 2023, when a collaborative effort by the FBI and other agencies disrupted its operations. However, BlackCat quickly rebounded, underscoring the resilience of ransomware groups. Third on the list

was Cl0p, which breached the managed file transfer system MOVEIt, impacting over 2.5 thousand organizations by December 2023, according to New Zealand security firm Emsisoft.

In its 2023 State of Ransomware report, Kaspersky also identified several noteworthy ransomware families, including BlackHunt, Rhysida, Akira, Mallox, and 3AM. Moreover, as the ransomware landscape evolves, smaller, more elusive groups are emerging, posing new challenges to law enforcement. According to the research, the rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) platforms further complicated the cybersecurity landscape, emphasizing the need for proactive measures.

Kaspersky’s incident response team noted that ransomware incidents accounted for every third cybersecurity incident in 2023. In the research, attacks via contractors and service providers emerged as prominent vectors, facilitating large-scale assaults with alarm-

ing efficiency. Overall, ransomware groups demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of network vulnerabilities, utilizing a variety of tools and techniques to achieve their objectives. They used well-known security tools, and exploited public-facing vulnerabilities and native Windows commands to infiltrate their victims, highlighting the need for robust cybersecurity measures to defend against ransomware attacks and domain takeovers.

“As ransomware-as-a-service proliferates and cybercriminals execute increasingly sophisticated assaults, the threat to cybersecurity becomes more acute. Ransomware strikes persist as a formidable menace, infiltrating critical sectors and preying on small businesses indiscriminately. To combat this pervasive threat, it’s imperative for individuals and organizations to fortify their defenses with robust cybersecurity measures. Deploying solutions such as Kaspersky Endpoint Security and embracing Managed Detection and Response (MDR) capabilities are pivotal steps in safeguarding against evolving ransomware threats,” commented Dmitry Galov, head of research center, Kaspersky’s GReAT. Read the full report on the State of ransomware at Securelist.com.

On May 12 – Anti-Ransomware Day

– Kaspersky is urging organizations to adhere to these best practices aimed at safeguarding their operations against ransomware attacks:

· Always keep software updated on all your devices to prevent attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities and infiltrating your network.

· Focus your defense strategy on detecting lateral movements and data exfiltration to the internet. Pay special attention to outgoing traffic to detect cybercriminals’ connections to your network. Set up offline backups that intruders cannot tamper with. Make sure you can access them quickly when needed or in an emergency.

· Enable ransomware protection for all endpoints. There is a free Kaspersky Anti-Ransomware Tool for Business that shields computers and servers from ransomware and other types of malware, prevents exploits and is compatible with already installed security solutions.

Fans meet Alden Richards thanks to vivo Y100

THE Meet and Greet event featuring the esteemed vivo ambassador, Alden Richards, was a resounding success, wrapping up with joy and excitement at the vivo Concept Store located in SM Megamall on May 4. Bringing together a select group of 10 fortunate fans, the event offered a unique opportunity for attendees to bond with the versatile actor, host, singer, and entrepreneur.

These 10 lucky fans, winners of the vivo Y100 launch promotion from April 27 to May 3, 2024, were treated to an exclusive experience with Alden Richards.

Despite the event’s exclusivity, the concept store was bustling with additional fans eager to catch a glimpse of their beloved idol.

Here are the highlights of vivo’s Meet and Greet with Alden Richards:

- Engaging Q&A with Alden feat. vivo Y100

- The atmosphere was electric as event host Steph Ongkiko captivated

Alibaba

the crowd with her infectious energy.

- Alden Richards took the stage alongside his trusty vivo Y100, sharing his appreciation for its remarkable 80W fast charging and affordable price

point, considering its array of features.

Two of the lucky fans were also able to ask their questions. When asked about his message to his loyal supporters, Alden reminded them that

Cloud’s Qwen Models attract over 90k enterprise adoptions in 1st year

BEIJING—Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, today announced a major milestone for Qwen (also known as “Tongyi Qianwen”), its family of proprietary large language models (LLMs). Since June last year, the Qwen family has attracted over 90,000 enterprise deployments through Alibaba Cloud’s generative AI platform, Model Studio, further demonstrating its leadership position backed by robust adoption across industries from consumer electronics, automobiles to gaming, making Qwen one of the most sought-after LLMs in China.

In response to the increasing demand for AI solutions, Alibaba Cloud also introduced the latest addition to its Qwen model family, Qwen2.5. Additionally, the company has continued

its commitment to the open-source community by releasing a series of new Qwen models, and upgraded its Model Studio with new AI development resources to fulfil the soaring AI demands from its enterprise users.

“It’s been an exciting journey so far to witness the robust and growing momentum of our family of large language models Qwen, which is truly embraced by our enterprise customers and we have seen so many creative applications of the models from across the industries,” said Jingren Zhou, CTO of Alibaba Cloud. “In the meantime, we have dedicated relentless efforts towards enhancing the capabilities of our models and enriching our suite of AI development services to enable even more innovative applications for our customers.”

“We will also continue to contrib-

ute a diverse array of AI models to the open-source communities, and we look forward to collaborating with our customers and developers in seizing the immense growth opportunities presented by the latest surge in the generative AI development.”

Growing Adoption of Qwen by Enterprise Users

Through Model Studio

The Qwen family has been deployed by over 90,000 enterprise users via Model Studio since the AI development platform launched in June last year. Over 2.2 million corporate users also accessed to Qwen-powered AI services from DingTalk, Alibaba’s intelligent collaboration workplace and application development platform. Meantime, the open-source Qwen series, boasting a range of models from 0.5 billion to 110 billion param-

“being kind is better than being right”. Heartfelt moments with vivo Y100 buyers

The 10 lucky winners of the vivo Y100 promotion had the opportunity to interact with Alden personally, receiving autographed posters as cherished mementos of the occasion.

Some of the winners also tweeted their delight at meeting Alden. Iconic groufie captured with vivo V30 Pro

Alden also graced a groufie using the latest in the vivo V Series, the V30 Pro. Co-engineered with ZEISS, the vivo V30 Pro has a 50MP triple main camera on the back and a 50MP selfie camera with 92-degree wide-angle autofocus.

The selfie camera ensures that every smile is captured with stunning clarity.

If you have missed the vivo Meet and Greet with Alden Richards, watch it here https://www.facebook.com/vivo. philippines/videos/418474707785395

FEELING the intense heat? As we experience unprecedented heat levels, Acerpure has come to the rescue with its air circulators, so say goodbye to sweaty summer woes and enjoy a cool breeze of relief. Beat the heat with Acerpure’s Summer Refresh Deals, which offer up to 50% off on Acerpure products until June 30, 2024. You can also score amazing deals on Acerpure’s cordless vacuum cleaners.

Cool down in this summer heat with these Acerpure air circulators and keep your home clean with Acerpure cordless vacuum cleaners.

Acerpure Cozy F1 (White) is an air circulator that projects air up to 15 meters away and covers over 108 sqm. It is priced at P3,999 from P4,799.

Acerpure Cozy F2 (White, Beige, and Pink), which has 16 speeds and powerful 3D Airflow up to 25m, is available for P4,999 from P5,699.

The Acerpure P2 Classic provides exceptional air purification without straining your budget, featuring a powerful 3-in-1 HEPA Filter. From P7,999, it is now priced at P5,999.

Acerpure Cool C2 is an air circulator and purifier with a 4-in-1 HEPA Filter for four-layer protection. It has a 10-speed Circulator and 5-speed purifier priced at P7,499 from P14,999.

Acerpure Clean V1 Lite, a cordless vacuum cleaner, very lightweight at 550g and has excellent suction power up to 13000Pa, is at P3,099 from P3,999.

Acerpure Clean V1, which has 23000Pa Suction Pressure Power and featuring a Turbo/Standard/ Eco Three-Mode switch, is priced at P9,999, down from P10,999. Only purchases made from Acerpure Authorized Resellers, Acer Concept Stores, Acerpure Shopee, Acerpure Lazada, and Acer Philippines Online Stores qualify for the Acerpure Summer Refresh Deals.

For more information about the promotion, follow Acerpure Philippines on Facebook: @ AcerpurePH. For more information about Acer, follow Acer Philippines on its social media platforms: @AcerPH on Facebook, @acerph on Instagram, and @acerphils on Twitter, or go to www.acer.com.

Acerpure Cozy F1 vivo ambassador idol Alden Richards with his fans

SHOWBIZ

‘My Mother, My Story’

By Nickie Wang

British singer Calum Scott performs with Filipino deaf students

TO PROMOTE inclusivity through music, British singer-songwriter Calum Scott recently met with some Filipino deaf students from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) for an exclusive gettogether.

The event included a screening of the American Sign Language (ASL) rendition of Scott’s 2021 single “Biblical,” which carries a message of immeasurable love.

The song’s ASL interpretation, which was crafted through his partnership with the Los Angelesbased, non-profit arts organization Deaf West Theater, provided the Benilde SDEAS learners with a brief introduction of Scott’s advocacy as well as a preview of the deaf culture from a different country.

He expressed his gratitude to the young for allowing him to share his advocacy with them.

“I just want to include as many people and touch as many people emotionally with music as possible, and I don’t think music is exclusive only for people who can hear,” he stated. “I think whether you’re hard of hearing or whether you’re deaf, you

can still understand and appreciate it visually, you can still understand the lyrics.”

“I think it is important to try and reach as many people as possible through as many mediums as possible,” he furthered. “We just have to share this because music is an international language, whether you can hear it or not.”

Meanwhile, Scott learned basic Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and communicated with the deaf talents.

EASONED television host Boy Abunda opens up about his late mother, Lesing Abunda, who passed away in 2019, and his wish to have had a deeper conversation about his sexuality.

Abunda, known as the “King of Talk,” shared that he cherished every conversation with his mom, who he described as funny, strong, and kind. Despite their closeness, Abunda revealed a lingering regret. He never had a full conversation with his mother about being gay.

Though he felt she knew and accepted him, he wished he had explained the joys and challenges of being a gay man.

“Every moment, every conversation I had with her was like a celebration,”

Abunda tells Manila Standard Entertainment . “I would have explained to Nanay what it is to be gay. I would have explained the history of the LGBT movement. But she didn’t ask me, I wish I was able to tell her about that.”

“But I knew she knew. She loved Bong like her own son,” referring to his partner Bong Quintana . “When I look back, I wish I could have explained certain things to Nanay because there were many challenges that I was facing.”

His mom was a former teacher and had they talked about this topic, Abunda knew she would ask her many questions, especially the hard-to-answer ones.

“She would ask a lot of questions, she would ask the hardest questions like ‘How would I reconcile my being gay and being Catholic?’ And I

Together with the deaf learners, the artist performed his latest song “Lighthouse” in FSL. The fullhearted piece conveys light in the darkness and hope on the horizon.

The initiative was held at the Benilde Design + Arts Campus in collaboration with the Universal Music Group and Benilde School of

Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS).

would have loved to explain that to Nanay. But she didn’t ask me, I wish we had a chance to talk about that,” Tito Boy says.

Despite this unfulfilled conversation, Abunda cherishes the love and support his mother always provided.

This personal experience inspired Abunda’s new talk series, My Mother, My Story . Premiering on Mother’s Day, May 12, the show delves into the powerful bond between celebrities and their mothers.

Through these heartfelt stories, Abunda hopes to remind viewers that love is unconditional. He emphasizes the importance of genuine connection, encouraging viewers to go beyond texting and celebrate the depth of a mother’s love.

The limited series will air every second Sunday of the month until October. The first episode features Luis Manzano reflecting on his life with his mother, Star for All Seasons, Vilma Santos

Abunda promises viewers a deeply personal journey. Celebrities will share how their mothers shaped them, from childhood experiences to navigating life’s challenges.

The show’s host feels strongly about the project.

“This is about us and our mothers,” he says. “We can all relate because we are all children.”

Abunda acknowledges the profound impact his mother had on him. “Until now, I have confidence because of my mother,” he shares. “Her unwavering support instilled a deep sense of self-belief.”

“With My Mother, My Story , I want the audience to understand that love is holistic. Through the stories of celebrities, if there are things that cannot be changed, it’s love. Life and love with our parents should not begin and end with technology. Love is not sent through text messages. A mother’s love is the strongest and purest love there is. It is endless and will never change no matter what happens,” Tito Boy explains. My Mother, My Story — under the helm of Rommel Gacho — premieres tomorrow at 3:15 p.m. on GMA Network.

Scott rose to fame after he finished sixth place in the talent competition Britain’s Got Talent in 2015. Among his popular hits are “Dancing On My Own,” “You Are The Reason,” and “At Your Worst.” Miss Earth Philippines to crown new queen tonight

THE winner of Miss Earth Philippines 2024 will be crowned tonight in Talakag, Bukidnon. The pageant will feature reigning Miss Earth 2023 Drita Ziri and her elemental queens.

Yllana Aduana , the current Miss Earth-Air from the Philippines, will crown her successor who will compete in Miss Earth 2024. Several delegates are considered frontrunners, including Ira Malaluan (Batangas City), Sam Samara (Makati City), Jeyzel Ann Reyes (Rome, Italy - Fil-com), Ansha Lichelle Jones (Zamboanga City), Chaoncy Rich (Bukidnon), Angela Cabuguas (Passi City), Rossel Joy Ronido (Misamis Oriental, Balingasang), and Kia Labiano (Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay).

Miss Earth Philippines 2024 finals will be live-streamed on the Miss Earth YouTube and Facebook channels, and televised on A2Z Channel on May 12. Eton Concepcion

Calum Scott (center) performs ‘Lighthouse’ in FSL together with Benilde Deaf students

Reigning Miss Earth 2023 Drita Ziri (center) will be gracing the event with her elemental queens

British singersongwriter Calum Scott screens the ASL version of his song ‘Biblical’ at the event

Boy Abunda’s (left) regret over missed conversations with his late mother Lesing Abunda serves as the inspiration behind the show

TV Host Boy Abunda’s ‘My Mother, My Story’ will showcase the bond between famous personalities and their mothers

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2024

C4 LIFE

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

Celebrate Mother’s Day with the gift of wellness

WHAT better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than with the gift of wellness? This is why PLDT mobile services arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with digital healthcare platform mWell to enable subscribers to redeem a Smart Health Pass, which can be used for essential health services.

Exclusively available to all Smart Prepaid, Smart Postpaid, TNT, Smart Bro, and PLDT Home Wifi subscribers starting May 10 to May 16, the Smart Health Pass may be redeemed by users for only 199 GigaPoints on the Smart App.

Originally priced at P399, the health pass may be used to avail of a doctor e-consultation, lab request, free medical e-certificate, and free accident insurance worth P20,000 valid for one month.

To avail of this exclusive offer, subscribers can follow a few simple steps. First, they need to either sign up or log in to the Smart App, which is available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Once logged in, they should navigate to the GigaPoints section within the app and proceed to redeem the Smart Health Pass for only 199 GigaPoints.

After successful redemption, subscribers should anticipate receiving a unique code directly within the Smart App. Finally, they must sign in to their mWell App account or download the mWell app if they haven’t already, and then sign up for an mWell account to enter the received code. Following these steps ensures access to the exclusive offer seamlessly.

“Our partnership with mWell for this exclusive offer underscores our commitment to bridge technology and wellness so our customers are empowered to truly live more today. We encourage our subscribers to make the most of this opportunity to gift their mothers with peace of mind and wellness,” said Alex O. Caeg , Head of Consumer Wireless Business-Individual at Smart.

“At the heart of mWell lies our passion for making health and wellness accessible, available, and affordable to anyone, anytime, anywhere. With the Smart Health Pass, Smart subscribers can provide their mothers with all-in-one access to mWell’s health and wellness features, including the mWellness Score, Mind Health Score, and 24/7 Teleconsult. The Health Pass makes for a perfect gift for our mom heroes who deserve nothing but the best,” said Chaye A. Cabal–Revilla Chief Executive Officer of mWell. Smart subscribers nationwide can conveniently access and make the most of this mWell App’s services powered by Smart’s award-winning mobile network, which was recently recognized by independent network analytics from Opensignal for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience.

Redeem the Smart Health Pass now on the Smart App at https:// smrt.ph/GetSmartApp.

Very Wang Nickie Wang

WE ALL know that being a mom is tough. It’s filled with both amazing moments and hurdles to jump over. It’s about caring for your kids, helping them learn and grow, and dealing with challenges along the way. Despite the difficulties, the love for your children makes it all worthwhile.

shares how her child takes top priority in everything she

Viy Cortez on motherhood:

‘Our child needs a happy mom, not a perfect one’

For entrepreneur, social media personality, and first-time mom Viy Cortez, motherhood is like “a roller coaster ride” filled with “ups and downs.” However, she emphasized the immense fulfillment that comes with raising a child.

“There are so many challenges but when you’re done with the ride, you’d be so happy because it’s so fulfilling knowing you did it,” she said during a talk at the inaugural Watsons Mom & Baby Fair held at the Mall of Asia.

According to Cortez, balancing her responsibilities as a mom, content creator, and entrepreneur requires careful time management and prioritization. “My priority is my child, Kidlat, second is my business, and then my role as a content creator,” she shared.

“I can’t stay still when I’m doing something and he cries on the side. That’s why if you notice, I do my content for social media at night because that’s when Kidlat is asleep,” she added.

Cortez also stressed the importance of self-care for mothers. “I get to attend events like this because I have someone looking after him, and Cong is also there to help me,” she said.

Cortez and her partner, streamer and content creator Lincoln “Cong” Cortez Velasquez, welcomed their first child in July 2022. Since then, the kid has become the center of their attention and, just like them, has become quite an online celebrity himself.

Cortez encouraged new mothers to embrace imperfection and seek support. “There’s no right formula for being a mother,” she said. “Our children don’t need a perfect mother, they need a happy one. Don’t forget to still do the things that used to make you happy. What’s important is if you’re happy, your children will be happy

too, they’d feel secure when you’re happy.”

“The struggles of mothers are very difficult but also the most rewarding,” Cortez concluded emotionally. “Let’s not be pressured by outside noise. No one else can give the right love to our children but us.”

The Watsons Mom & Baby Fair, running from May 6 to 12 at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium, aims to support families with exclusive discounts, informative talks, and engaging activities.

Celebrity moms Solenn Heussaff and Viy Cortez headlined the event, offering parenting insights. The fair also featured talks, a baby shower for the Watsons Mom Community, and product booths from leading baby brands.

The Watsons Mom & Baby Fair provided a one-stop shopping destination for families, offering everything from prenatal supplements to children’s necessities. Interactive areas allowed parents and children to explore products in a fun and informative way.

The fair also offered a space for parent connection through the SM Supermalls SuperMoms Club, and a relaxation area with massage chairs for moms. Shoppers enjoyed free popsicles and a photo booth to capture memories.

Viy balances her mom duties with her entrepreneurial endeavors and her social media career

Viy joins the Watsons Mom & Baby Fair with fellow celebrity mom Solenn Heussaff

Viy

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